A suruay of the pretended holy discipline. Contayning the beginninges, successe, parts, proceedings, authority, and doctrine of it: with some of the manifold, and materiall repugnances, varieties and vncertaineties, in that behalfe

CHAP. II. How, by whome, and where, the platforme of Presbytery Disci∣pline, was first deuised, and established. (Book 2)

THe world now a dayes, is set all vpon liberty. E∣uery man allmost is of their humour, which thought scorne, * 1.1 that any should bee lifted vp a∣boue the congregation. The cantoninge of kingdomes, is in many mens mouthes. You shall finde it, a great mat∣ter amongst those that haue beene trauailers; and it is their vsuall discourse, vz. what a notable thinge it is to liue in Venice. There, (forsooth) euery gentleman liueth with as great libertie as the Duke himselfe. They haue noe

Earles, no Barons, no Noblemen; of whome their Gentle∣men should stand in awe. What is a Nobleman (say these discoursers) but a gentleman▪ And I am as good a gentle∣man as the best of them. Surely it is very well spoken: and like a gentleman. But whilst you braue so vppon noble∣men: doe you know what you doe▪ Be there not some in the world (and yet none Anabaptistes) that will say: what is a gentleman, but a man▪ And am not I in behauiour as gentle as he▪ and for my manhood, as good a man as he▪

A certaine writer for reformation; hauing (as it seemeth) a great dislike of Bishops:* 1.2 compareth the Bishops Rochet to a white smocke, and the Bishop himselfe, to a porter of the Stillyard. This will not dislike some. But reade (I pray you) with patience, what he also writeth of noblemen and gentlemen: for that which he saith, toucheth them both alike. Whereof came (saith he) this diuision of such personages from others: * 1.3 seeing all men came of one man, and one woman▪ was it for their lusty hawking and hunting▪ for their nimble di∣cing, and cunning carding? for their singing and dauncing? for their open bragging and swearing? for their false flyring and flattering? for their subtill pilling and stealing? for their cruell polling and pilling &c. No, no: there was no such thing. You would then be glad (I am sure) to know what thing it was. Indeed the same author doth not conceale it. In effecte it is (though it be deliuered in better wordes) vz. that their rebellion and treason against their gouernors, procured them that prerogatiue with the people. Because (saith he) they reuenged and deliuered the oppressed people out of the handes of their gouernours,* 1.4 who abused their authoritie, and wickedly, cruelly, and tir annously ruled ouer them; the people of a gratefull and thankefull minde, gaue them that estimation and honor. We liue in a worlde (you know) that crieth out: the firste

institution, the first institution: euery thing must be brought to the first institution. The wordes be good, if they be well applied.* 1.5 But something was amisse in the Priestes applica∣tion of his text, being such a like saying, amongest a multi∣tude of rebelles: vz: When Adam digged, and Eue spanne, who was then the Gentleman. What is a nobleman, or a gen∣tleman now (say many in the world of the said Priestes hu∣mour, when noblemen and gentlemen will not satisfie their desires) but an vsurper of such honour, as the people bestowed vpon their auncestors at the first, for defending of them against their gouernours▪ which honour or pre∣rogatiue their children enioying after them by the negli∣gence or conniuencie (forsooth) of the people: hath growen into a tyrannicall superioritie: Whereby they lift themselues aboue the rest of the childrē of God, to whom indeede the inheritaunce of the world doth equally apper∣taine; by the same right, that all true Christians are fellow heires together of the kingdome of heauen. Call they this the bringing of thinges to the first institution▪ Surely such and the like conceits do tend to nothing, but to bloud and confusion.

The course which was taken in Schwitzerland, and o∣ther places in high Almayne (where the people made ha∣uocke both of their noblemen, and gentlemen) shall ne∣uer (whilest I liue) get my approbation: Let all the Consi∣storians in Christendome commend it neuer so much, and that vnder pretence of the doctrine of true obedience. Be it that their gouernours, their noblemen, and their gentle∣men were become tyrantes: yet (as Melancthon truely saith of that matter): * 1.6 excessit medicina modum: the medi∣cine passed measure. He might haue said in mine opinion, excessit medicina malum: the medicine was worse then the

disease. But I will not meddle with such kinde of free∣dome. If the Emperours of Germanie doe thinke it a mat∣ter for the glory, and for the strength of their Empire, to haue it (as it were) distributed into so many free Citties, so many popular states, and little petty soueraignties: it were a saucie part for me (as I take it) to busie my selfe with it. Howbeit that any such doctrine or examples, should be published, or once dreamed of, in such a kingdome as this is: there is no pretence of religion, no shewe of reformati∣on, no platforme of Discipline, although it shoulde come from Geneua, that can sufficiently warrant it. And yet wee finde it to be true by our owne experience in moste places, that such kinde of pretences can do very much: especially if some of Geneua, shall but giue them their credite and good countenance vnto it.

One Franciscus Boniuardus, at maister Caluins request, did write a short description of the citie of Geneua:* 1.7 where∣in he affirmeth that about the yeare 1124. the Bishop of Ge∣neua was the Prince of it: and that after some contention with one Aymo de imperio ciuitatis, for the soueraintie of the Ci∣tie: the said Bishop going to the Emperour Fredericke the first: obtinuit vt ille solus Geneuae principatum obtineret Regali iure: obtained that hee alone might enioy the principalitie of Geneua, by a kingly interest, that he should be free from all tributes, and be subiect in temporall causes, but onely to the Emperour. Not much disagreeing from this, is that which Simlerus wri∣teth.* 1.8 Episcopatus huius vrbis, &c. The Bishopricke of this Citie (meaning Geneua) had most large priuileges, and immunities: but notwithstanding the Citizens did carefully conserue the pro∣per liberties, and perpetuall conditions with their Bishops, that they had receaued from their forefathers. It appeareth further∣more by the said Boniuardus, that notwithstanding the Bi∣shops

right mentioned, for the principalitie of that Cittie:* 1.9 yet there was still some contention about it, betwixt the Bishops and the Earles, and Dukes of Sauoy: euen (sayth hee) vsque ad nostra tempora: till our times. In re∣spect of which troubles, the Citizens of Geneua, aswell for the assisting of their Bishops right (I suppose), as for the de∣fence of themselues, and their owne priuiledges menti∣oned: did ioyne themselues in league with the Helueti∣ans, and with them of Berne, and Friburge. By meanes of which league, or howe else it came to passe (I knowe not) but it appeareth by Bodinus,* 1.10 that after some time, the Ci∣tizens of Geneua, growing wearie of the foresaid troubles: did beginne to professe, that they would not be bound eyther to the lawes of the Duke of Sauoy, or of the Bishop. But (saith the same Bodinus) they thought it not safe for them, to at∣tempt any thing, vntill there did arise a quarrell for the princi∣palitie, not onely betwixt the Duke and the Byshop: but like∣wise betwixt the Bishop, and the people. The contention or dislike betweene the Bishop and the people, grewe heere∣of (as I take it): for that by the paynes and preaching of Farellus, they beganne to dislike of Poperie, and inclined to a reformation of Religion, as diuerse Citties neere vn∣to them, and with whome they were in some league, had done. Which inclination of theirs, was altogether misliked, (ye may be sure), by their popish Bishop. Where∣vppon, as also in respect of the saide iarres, betweene the Duke and their Bishoppe: the Citizens receiuing some good incouragement diuerse waies (I doubt not), nouan∣dae religionis studium ac reipub. commutandae oblatam occasio∣nem arripuerunt, they tooke vpon them the indeuour of altering religion, and omitted not (saith Bodine) the occasion offered, of changing also the estate of their common wealth.

It resteth nowe to be considered, by what meanes (in part) they brought their saide purposes to passe. It ap∣peareth by Caluins wordes to Cardinall Sadolet: that if the Byshop woulde haue harkened at the first, to Farellus, for the abolishing of Poperie, they would then, haue been ve∣ry well content, to haue admitted still of his Episcopall iu∣risdiction. But (as I sayd) hee would not. And then both Farellus, Viretus, and all their fauourers, did set vpon the Bi∣shop, withall maine & might. They said it was not meete, for a Minister to haue so great a liuing. They pronoun∣ced him, clara voce furē esse, with a loud voice to be a theefe. The Byshop being at this time (that I speake of) in posses∣sion of the soueraigntie and ciuile gouernment of that Ci∣tie:* 1.11 and hauing then in his hands (as maister Caluin confes∣seth) ius gladij & alias ciuilis iurisdictionis partes, the power of life and death and other partes of ciuile iurisdiction: The said Ministers exclaimed against that ciuile authoritie in Bi∣shops:* 1.12 they taught it, to be vtterly vnlawfull, for a By∣shop, to haue anie such soueraigntie: they said hee was an vsurper, and what not▪ By which proceedings and do∣ctrine of the ministers, no maruell of the Citizens, acknow∣ledging no right in the Duke of Sauoy ouer them: beganne to think, that then the Bishop by the word of God, hauing none in like maner: the soueraigntie of the citie must needs be in themselues. In this contention therefore, (which Bodinus speaketh of) for the principality betwixt the Bi∣shop and the people (how matters fell out I know not) but such was the present occasion: that (as it seemeth) the Bi∣shop with many of his popish crue, gat him thence. Quo eiecto Geneuates monarchiam in popularem statum commu∣tarunt:* 1.13 who being cast out (saith Bodinus), the Geneuans did chaung theyr monarchy into a popular state. In respect whereof,

the said Bodinus:* 1.14 doth adde, the cittie of Geneua, vnto those citties of Heluetia: which for the auoyding of the ti∣ranny of their gouernours, haue entered into a confedera∣cy, & shaken them of. Vpon the eiection of the said Bishop, the citizens (by such aduise as they liked) ordained a newe forme of popular gouernement: such a one, as they them∣selues thought meetest for the state of that cittie. A coun∣cell was chosen, to consist of two hundred: which coun∣cell hath the highest, and a standing authority, sauing that for the making of lawes, for the choosing of their principall magistrates, for decreing of peace or warre (which were iura magistratis: notes and rightes of soueraignty and re∣gality) these be reserued to the whole people and multi∣tude of citizens. They ordaine also two other councells: the one of threescore, and the other of fiue and twenty: and likewise also fower Syndicks, their chiefest magistrats, to bee yearely elected, with manye such orders as they thought conuenient, for the better gouernement of the cittie. Whilst they of Geneua were busyed in these affaires, which were necessary for their state: the Bishop with all his shauelinges and adherentes, was not idle I assure my selfe.* 1.15 He laboured (as it seemeth by Simlerus) a reconcilia∣tion with the Duke of Sauoy: and (by what meanes I know not) did grow into such a frendship with him: as that hee obteyned of him his assistaunce: meaning to haue recoue∣red, by force and armes, his saide right and authoritie. They of Geneua vnderstanding of this course: did fortifie themselues,* 1.16 with the strength of Berne. Insomuch as the Duke and the Bishop, assaultinge the citty anno 1536. they were both of them discomfited. Bernatibus illis auxilium se∣rentibus: they of Berne assisting them of Geneua. And since that time, the citty of Geneua: hath bene ruled by such a kinde

of gouernement, as hath briefly bene touched.

I would not haue any man to thinke, that I take vppon me, to censure the doinges of the ciuile state, either of Ge∣neua, or of any other place. Onely I haue bene bolde, to set downe the premises, as I finde them reported by the au∣thors mentioned: because they conteine some such mat∣ters, as are necessary to be vnderstood, in some ouuert sort; in respecte of that, which followeth, concerninge the first institution of the pretended consistoriall discipline. Besides (propounding to my selfe, throughout this whole booke, to deale with nothinge, whether it bee good or euell, fur∣ther then as it concerneth the affaires of the Church:) I doubt not, but that I may presume, without any mans iust offence, to speake my opinion, as touching the Diuinity, which was pretended, by the saide Ministers of Geneua a∣gainst their Bishop. For in deede I doe dislike it. If such dealinges were simply to be vrged by the worde of God: they might reach further, then would be conuenient. Ine∣uer thought it agreeable to Diuinity, for ministers to caste of their rulers, at their owne pleasures. M. Caluin writeth wisely to Cardinall Sadolet: but the course, which (there hee sheweth), was helde by the Ministers, (say what men list,) cannot be iustifyed. I know one that hath written thus of that matter:* 1.17 eum principatum, euangelij lux ciuitati restituit, the light of the Gospell, did restore to the Citty, that principality which the Bishop had. But all the learned Diuines in Ger∣many, at their conferences with the Emperour (about that time) were of a contrary opinion, as touching the Bishops in those countries, who are greate Princes. And surely it would seeme strange to me: if the Gospell should wrest the sword, out of any ciuile Magistrates hande: let him be of what profession he list.

I doe therefore subscribe to Zanchius iudgemente, for mine owne part, where he sayth: We deny not, that such Bi∣shops, as bee also Princes, besides their Ecclesiasticall authority, haue also their politicke lawes, and secular powers, as other Prin∣ces haue: vz. right, in commaundinge in secular matters, right of the sworde,* 1.18 right of electing, and confirminge of some kinges & Emperours: and right of ordayning, and administringe of other politique affaires: and that they haue right to compell the people their subiects, to performe the duety of their subiection vnto them. And therefore we confesse, that their subiectes ought to obey their ciuile commaundements, (which may be kept without the breach of Gods law:) and that not onely for feare, but also for conscience sake. Thus farre Zanchius, whose iudgement in this pointe, will be esteemed of (I suppose) hereafter, when all that ei∣ther is, or can be sayd by any man to the contrary, will fall to the ground, or vanish like smoake. If it be saide that Zan∣chius writeth truely, but that my allegation of his wordes is altogether impertinent; for that the Bishops of Geneua, had neuer any setled right in the ciuile gouernement of that cit∣ty: I am not the man that will either iustify mine owne di∣scretion, or impugne any thinge, which may bee brought for the ciuile proceedinges of that state, or of any other: so as they carry no false groundes of Diuinity with them, which may prooue daungerous vnto our owne:* 1.19 such as haue bene since published, for the authorizing of subiectes in many cases, to depose their Princes. Christ refused to be a deuider of priuate mens inheritances: and then surely it doth not become me, to be a decider of any titles, to coun∣tries, citties, or kingdomes. I pray for all: and will not fur∣ther meddle with any.

Now it remaineth, that hauing made relation vnto you, of the premises (as you haue heard): I should also acquaint

you, more particularly, with the alteration that was made at Geneua, in the order and forme of the gouernemente of the Church. Wherein you shall finde, some greater varie∣ty both of actions and pollicy.* 1.20 M. Beza speaking of the re∣formation of religion in that citty, sayth: that Christes Go∣spell was established there, mirabiliter, wonderously. A wonder the common saying is, doth last but nine dayes: but that wonderfull course, which he speaketh of; will not bee for∣gotten, I suppose in hast.

As you haue heard, that the Bishop of Geneua was dealt withall, for the principality of that City: so was he vsed as touching his Bishopricke. The Ministers cryed out, that his Ecclesiasticall iurisdiction, was as vnlawfull, as his ci∣uile. Wherevpon the Bishopricke was dissolued: and that forme of Ecclesiasticall gouernement, vtterly abolished, whereby that citty had bene ruled in Church-causes, from the time, that first it receiued the profession of christianity. Together with the ouerthrow of which Bishopricke; all the orders, constitution, and lawes of the Church: (which had beene in framing by all the learned men in christen∣dome, euer since the Apostles times) were at one stroake quite chopte of, and wholy abrogated: vnder pretence (forsooth) of the name of cannon lawes, the popes lawes, and I wot not what. Wherein the ministers dealt as wisely in mine opinion: as if some king, succeeding fower or fiue of his predecessors (whome he hated): should therevpon ouerthrow, all the lawes, that eyther they, or any other of his predecessors, had euer made before him.

Maister Caluin being charged by some (as it seemeth) with the rashnesse,* 1.21 which was vsed at Geneua in this point▪ doth excuse it thus in effect: vz. that they deale therein, as men doe with rotten houses: they ouerthrewe all the whole forme, of

ecclesiasticall building as once, as it were into a rude heape: out of the which they might the better make choyse, and take of that olde stuffe, as much as liked them, to build withall: againe after∣ward. Indeede there are many builders in these dayes: of such a kinde of humor. Nothing will content them: but that they build themselues. And therein also they are very inconstant. Now this must downe, now that must vppe; now this must bee chaunged, and that must bee enlarged▪ here the workemen mistooke me: this is not in good pro∣portion, away with it: I will haue this square chaunged into a rounde: and this rounde altered into a square. A fit∣ter metaphore could not well haue beene found: to haue shewed the vnstayed minds of such manner of reformers.

But to proceed. The auncient forme of ecclesiasticall gouernement with all the Elders thereof, being thus ouer∣turned; as the citezens in the framing of their newe ciuill gouernement, had an especiall eye to the manner of the ciuill gouernement of their neighbour citties and states ad∣ioyning: so had both the magistrates and the ministers at the first also great regard of the ecclesiasticall pollicy in the same citties: relying principally vppon their forme of Church-gouernement, and vppon their orders and cere∣monyes in that behalfe prouided. But this Church Modell; was also shortly after wholy misliked. For the ministers perceiued, that (as they thought) the ciuill ma∣gistrats, had too great authorie giuen vnto them in church∣causes: & that they themselues had a great deale too little. Maister Caluin speaking of this manner of reformation:* 1.22 calleth it, but a correcting of the Church. And Beza yeeldeth a reason:* 1.23 why Farellus & Viretus contented thēselues with such a simple Church-gouernement: vz. in effecte (to my vnderstanding): not that they were ignorant, what insuf∣ficiency

there was in it: but because in such a hurly burly, and great chaunge of things, they could haue no better; and afterwardes when they woulde faine haue bettered themselues, the rest of the ministers, that should haue ioy∣ned with them therein, were fearefull to attempt (so soone) any new alteration.

The same yeare, that Geneua was assaulted (vz. 1 5 3 6.) Maister Caluin came thether: and was there admitted non concionator tantum (hoc enim primum recusarat) sed etiam sa∣crarum liter arum doctor:* 1.24 not onely for their preacher (for he had refused that before) but also for a doctor of the holy scriptures. In which place, hee was scarcely warme: when like a man of courage (reiecting all feare) hee tooke in hand to frame a new platforme for the gouernement of that Church, (or as Maister Bezaes word is) ecclesiam componere to compound the Church: being of likelyhood before in his opinion, tanquam dissoluta scopa, as a dissolute Chaos and vndigested bundell. And in very short time, hee did so farre prouaile therein: as that hee caused the cittizens (being assembled together) to abiure their former popish gouernement (as they termed it) by Bishops:* 1.25 and to sweare to a certaine draught of discipline paucis capitibus comprehensam: comprehended (as Beza saith) vnder a fewe heades.

What the forme, of this draught was: I finde it not any where mentioned. But whatsoeuer it was: it appeareth that both he, Farellus and Viretus, so vsed themselues in the administration of it: as that the rest of the ministers, and the chiefest of the cittie grew quickly, very weary of it. For through their rough dealing in diuers pointes: especially in opposing themselues against the orders of Berne,* 1.26 (before that time receiued there) and particularly for their obsti∣nate refusing to administer the Lordes supper with vn∣leauened

bread;* 1.27 according to a resolution giuen to that effecte by a Synode at Lausanna of the ministers of Berne. which resolution, since, Beza calleth iniquissimum decre∣tum: for these and such like causes (I say) they were al three of them within nine monethes (after their setting vppe of their short plat of discipline) bannished the cittie. The causes before mentioned of this their bannishment, were giuen out thus in generall termes: Tyranni esse voluerunt in liberam ciuitatem: voluerunt nouum pontificatum reuocare.* 1.28 They would haue beene tyrants ouer a free cittie: they would haue re∣called a new papacy.

And here beganne the Consistorian humor, (which raigneth nowe amongst the factious sorte in England) to shew it selfe: but yet in a more secrete sorte, by their pri∣uate letters one to an other. Their fauourers and partakers, (whome they lefte behinde them at Geneua) presently af∣ter their departure, entered into faction: and refused to receiue the communion, with vnleauened bread, as it had beene ordered,* 1.29 they should doe, by the said Synode at Lausanna. The ministers that remained in the cittie after them: were greatly disgraced. For in that they continued their ministery there, without the newe Discipline: they were said to hold otiosam functionem,* 1.30 an idle function. The Senate of two hundred, that expelled the said three prea∣chers,* 1.31 was termed by Caluin, tumultuos a perditorum homi∣num factio, a tumultuoas faction of rakehells & castaway es. Beza saith:* 1.32 that in that councell, the greater part ouercame the better. But then by the way, they were not all of them, such manner of men, as Caluin reporteth The chiefest magistrates of the cittie, euen the Syndickes, were ter∣med, factionum et discordiarum duces, the ringleaders of fac∣tions and dissentions.* 1.33 They were resembled to Nabuca∣dnezar:

and the exiles to Daniell. And generally they gaue it out against all their backe frendes: that they went about to ouerthrowe the Church, and that they had ob∣durated themselues against the Lord Iesus Christ. These and such like speaches, you must thinke were giuen out then secretly: but since, they are published in printe, for other ministers instructions: which may hereafter receiue any checke about that kinde of discipline.

Hetherto for ought I finde, the pretended discipline had no great successe. I must therfore proceede on forward. These three preachers being thus banished, their friendes at Geneua were maruailous earnest, to haue them thither a∣gaine. Many letters were procured from certaine church∣es and learned men, to the magistrates in that behalfe: as you shall partly perceaue by diuerse epistles set out vnder the title or together with Caluins epistles. Euery one like∣wise in the Cittie, that held for the discipline, did his best with the people. But Maister Caluin was the man, whom they all of them most desired: for the rest (being else where placed) they cared not much.

Vnto these endeuours may be added: some very wise courses taken by Maister Caluin, in the time that he dis∣continued from Geneua▪ Cardinall Sadolet hauing written to the Geneuians in dislike of the alteration, both of their state and of the Romish religion, admonishing them to returne to their olde byace: Maister Caluin aunswered him, and iustified as he thought meete their proceedinges therein: to their very good contentment. Also, where some (& that of his owne friends) had greatly laboured to discredite, the ministers of that cittie, (which were lefte,) to the griefe of the magistrates: & endeuoured to haue brought them vt∣terly

into contempt, for executing their ministerie with∣out the pretended Discipline, &c. Maister Caluin staied that course by writing vnto them, that he doubted not, but that their ministers deliuered vnto them, the chiefe heads of Christian religion, which were necessary to saluation: and that also they ioyned thereunto the right vse of the Sacramentes. And then (saith he) where those two pointes are performed,* 1.34 illic substan∣tia ministery viget: there is the substance of the ministerie: and a lawfull honour and obedience is to be giuen to that Ministery.

Lastly, the mutinie mentioned, which was about re∣fusall,* 1.35 to communicate with vnleauened bread, he likewise appeased: by perswading the authours of it: that it was a matter of indifferencie, for the which they ought not to disquiet the peace of the Church. By which occasions, together with the former sutes mentioned, the Citie (as I iudge) hauing conceaued a better opinion of maister Caluin then they had before: and supposing, that if he came againe amongst them, he would vse a great deale more mildnesse, and mo∣deration in his proceedinges then hee had earst done: they were at the last contented, (after two yeares bannish∣ment and more,) to recall him vnto them: vz: in the yeare, 1541.

Whilest his friendes were labouring for him, (as you haue heard:)* 1.36 he himselfe perceiuing, that hee shoulde re∣turne thither, was still harping to his friendes vppon this string: how he might haue the Citie so bound to the forme of Discipline, which he had in his head, as that afterwardes they might not when they list,* 1.37 start from it. And therefore as soone as he was come thither: hee imployed his studie that way especially. At the first offering of his paines to the Se∣nate: he told him that the Church there, could not possibly conti∣nue, except there were same certaine forme of Church gouerne∣ment

established. Whereupon the Senate ordered at his request, that he and fiue other of the Ministers should conferre together, about such a forme as they thought meet: and that hauing so done, they should offer the same to the consideration of the said Senate.

Here then you shall see the strength of maister Caluins wit. He wisely saw, that notwithstanding, the Bishops eccle∣siasticall authoritie had been vtterly disgraced, and was thereupon reiected, as being (forsooth) Popish and tyran∣nicall: yet it was not good for the Church, that the mini∣sters should bate the citie one ace, of an ecclesiasticall au∣thoritie, aequiualent at the least, to that which their Bishops formerly had enioyed amongest them. Howbeit, he well perceiued withall, that for the bringing of this matter a∣bout; there must be verie good pollicie, and circumspecti∣on vsed: or else that it would be a thing impossible, to bring a people, (hauing gotten their libertie) into the like or a worse seruitude, then they were in before. His plot there∣fore (as I take it) was, as followeth.

He laboured to perswade the people and the Magi∣strates: that as there was a ciuile Senate, for the gouerne∣ment of the Citie, and the territories thereof, in ciuile cau∣ses: so by the word of God, there should be an ecclesiasti∣call Senate, for the gouernment of the same Citie and terri∣tories (conteining aboue twentie parishes) in causes eccle∣siasticall. And to this purpose he wanted not (I warrant you) very many probable reasons. The persons that should beare authoritie in this Senate: (I nothing doubt) but that he could haue been very well contented they should haue been all of them ministers: euen as the ciuile gouernment did then wholly consist of ciuile persons. But by reason of the great authoritie, that the preachers had before intitu∣led the ciuile magistrates vnto, for the bannishment of

their Bishop, & for their dealing in Church causes; (where∣withall they were in some sorte possessed) hee very wisely considered with Farellus and Viretus, that if they tooke that course, they should finde vnresistable opposition. And therefore they deuised a way, which if they could obtaine, should bee in effect, all one, as if they had been all Mini∣sters: and yet shoulde carrie such an outward shewe, as though there had been, no such matter intended.

And their deuise was: that their ecclesiasticall Senate should consist of twelue Citizens, to be chosen yearely (not out of the baser sort of the people, but out of the ciuile councels of the Citie, all of them to be states men): and but of sixe Ministers, who were to continue for their liues, except there fell out some occasion, to remoue them. With this inuention, after many perswasions vsed, both publick∣ly in the pulpit, and priuately vppon euery occasion: the Cittizens at length were contented. They sawe, there should bee twelue of them continually, (as any matters should fall out,) to sixe ministers: which was oddes in∣ough. They imagined, that notwithstanding they yeal∣ded to such a platforme, for the satisfiyng of their Mini∣sters importunitie: (when they sawe that needes they would be some body amongest them:) yet they should in effect keepe the raines still in their owne handes, and be able to curbe them at their pleasure. Vpon these and what other such like considerations I knowe not:* 1.38 but after mai∣ster Caluins very great paines taken about that matter, in∣somuch as hee was therewith all almost oppressed,* 1.39 the Cittie at the length was induced, to admit of their platforme, with the lawes and prerogatiues thereunto appertaining. And this was the first time, for ought I finde, that the pretended consisto∣rian Discipline, euer drew breath.

Maister Caluin, hauing thus (as you haue seene) preuai∣led in this attempt: it was not long after, but that the wiser sort of the Citie, perceiued their owne ouersight. For vn∣der pretence of ecclesiasticall causes, there was nothing done in the Citie, (which this newe Senate misliked,) but by one meanes or other, they drewe it vnto their cogni∣zance. They would say that this and that was an offence to the godly: and then forthwith it was a cause for the Con∣sistorie. Besides the maner of their proceedings in such cau∣ses, as were brought before them, was altogether misliked. They endeuoured by all their deuises:* 1.40 to winne the people vnto them. If any of the Magistrates fell into their handes: especially,* 1.41 if they had no good opinion of them, they were sure to pay for it. A very rigorous course was held with certaine of the chiefe of that Citie, about their dauncinges (vpon a certaine time) priuately in one of their friendes houses: as you may read in the 26. chapter following. And their especiall drift therein, (besides their affectionate dea∣ling vpon a quarrell towardes one of them,) was: (as I take it) to curry fauour with the multitude. Oh (saith Caluin) (writing how like men both he and his associates had pro∣ceeded in this dauncing matter) exemplum valde proderit &c.* 1.42 the example will do much good. For now it is alreadie a com∣mon saying amongest the people, nullam esse spem impunitatis, cum primarijs non parcatur, that there is no hope of impuni∣tie, seeing the chiefe men of the Citie are not spared.

But you will say, howe came it to passe, that the twelue Elders all of them states-men, would suffer such things to be done in that Senate, as should breede such discontent∣ment amongest the Citizens? You may remember that I tolde you howe maister Caluin in this matter shewed his great wit, and ouerreached the Citizens notably. He was

not ignorant, how easy a matter it would proue, for him and his fellow ministers, to ouer-rule twelue simple men, all of them vnlearned, as being either apronmen, artizans, or marchantes. But his chiefest reach was: that he knewe these twelue graund gouernours, woulde certainely re∣member, that their office was but annuall: and that if they opposed themselues against their ministers, being theyr superiours in office, (and whose authoritie was still to con∣tinue) they might afterwardes peraduenture be caused to repent it. And in deede according to his good foresight, so it came to passe; which encreased the cittizens generall discontentement and dislike of that manner of Church∣gouernement.

Besides, an other thinge there was, that especially grie∣ued them: and disclosed their want of prouidence. They saw their cittizens of that Senate, not onely ouer-ruled by the said six ministers, but likewise all the ministers so ouer∣topped by Maister Caluin, as that in effect he was Domine fac totum: & tooke vpon him to doe all in all. Wherevpon there were some that beganne to feare; least (as I suppose) Maister Caluin sought (by his cunning) to bring them a∣gaine, to the gouernement of one: which they alltogether detested. Thus he himselfe reporteth in effect of this mat∣ter: vz. that there was a supplication found, which was meant to haue beene exhibited to the people, at their most generall as∣sembly, wherein these two propositions were contayned: Nihil esse legibus vindicandum,* 1.43 nisi quod rempub. laederet: that no∣thing was to be punished by lawe, but that which did hurt the common wealth. And the other: periculum esse, ne dum haec vrbs vnius hominis melancholici cerebro obtemperat, excitata seditione, perdat mille ciues: that there was daunger, least, whilest the cittie, obeyed the brayne of one melancholy man,

vppon some rebellion raysed, it might ouerthrowe a thousand cittizens.

But it will be said, that Maister Caluin reporteth this as a slaunder. I confesse he doth so. And yet for my part, this I belieue was true: that in effect he ruled there in that Se∣nate as peremptorily, as euer the Byshop of that cittie did be∣fore him, by vertue of his ecclesiasticall authoritie. And I am led to iudge so, by his owne wordes. For in the time of his banishment, when he was vrged by sundry mini∣sters, to admit of equall conditions, and to returne to Ge∣neua, for the good of that Church: hee aunswered them partly thus. Ad tantam multitudinem regendam, qui suf∣ficerem?* 1.44 how should I be able to rule such a multitude? Againe: desuetudine oblitus sum artis regendi multitudinem: through want of practise, I haue forgotten the art of ruling a multitude: And to Viretus, speaking of his going to Geneua: Cerno quam arduum sit munus ecclesiasticum regere:* 1.45 I perceiue howe hard a matter it is, to mauage an ecclesiasticall function. Againe I am nescio quid factum sit, vt animo incipiam esse inclinatiore, ad capessenda eius gubernacula: I know not how it now commeth to passe, that I am of a more inclininge minde to take the gouern∣ment of that Church vpon me. What doe all these speaches meane (I pray you,) but that notwithstanding his pretence of assistantes: yet hee meant so to lay his plot, as that they should all be constrayned, all the sort of them, to daunce after his pipe?

But howsoeuer these thinges may be interpreted, this is most apparant: that, (as I sayd) such were the Consistorian proceedinges, as that both he and his Consistory, did grow into great hatred and malice. Insomuch as writing to his friendes,* 1.46 he complayneth in this manner. We haue too ma∣ny, of a hard and vntamed necke, who vpon euery occasion do en∣deuour,

to shake off the yoake: that by their tumultes, they mighte abolish the lawfull order of the Church.* 1.47 There are in that nom∣ber, both olde men, and young men. The youth especially, is here most desperate. And to Viretus: Nisi dominus &c. except the Lorde, doe rebuke the sea and the windes; I see there are greate stormes toward vs: which they mooue, who ought rather to ap∣pease them.* 1.48 I dare not call you hether, for many causes. The chie∣fest is: for that I am afrayd, how at the length we must giue place vnto them, who will neuer end, vntill they haue ouerthrowne all. Likewise to the same Viretus. Many, are such children, that they are affrayde, at the ridiculous shaking of a head &c. Si desi∣stam,* 1.49 totum consistorium ruat necesse est: if I desist, there is no remedy, but downe falleth the consistorie. Great tumults, were vp amongst them in the cittie: and therefore he altered his former mind touching his not calling of Viretus: and requesteth him most earnestly: (as beeing more gratious then himselfe) to come and helpe to appease them. You cannot possibly doe a thing (sayth he) that shall be more grate∣full vnto me: then if you shal make a good ende of these quarrells: me ad Garamantas relegato, though I be bannished into the far∣thest partes of the worlde.* 1.50 And in another epistle: Eo prorupit improbitas, vt retineri qualemcunque ecclesiae statum diutius posse (meo praesertim ministerio) vix sperem. Impiety hath gotten such a head, that I canne scarsely thinke, there can anye tollerable state of the Church continue here, especially, by my ministery.

These dissentions proceeding thus on for a time: at the last they came to this issue:* 1.51 vt maior Senatus receptum et bactemus seruatum ecclesiae ordinem repente conuelleret. Nos re∣stitimus: that the greater Senate did sodainely ouerthrowe the order of the Church: which had beene receiued and kept. But we withstood them. An argument of very good subiection. Much trouble would surely haue come of it, but that vpon

a sermon▪ preached by Maister Caluin, and after vppon a motion made by him, and the rest of the ministers to the Senate, order was taken, that for the quieting of all partes, the said sentence of the greater Senate, should be suspen∣ded, vntill the state of Geneua had taken the aduise, of foure Heluetian citties,* 1.52 their neighbours and friendes; touching the pointes in question: vz. about the authoritye of their Consistorie, to suspend men from the communnion, as they sawe cause: which is the verye scepter of that pretended Syon.

When this course was taken: marke I pray you Maister Caluins pollicy.* 1.53 He knew (as in effect he saith) that none of the magistrates of anye of those fower citties, woulde write any aunswere, to the cittizens letters of Geneua, but by the aduise of their ministers. Wherevpon, whilest the Syndickes with their councells were conferring about their letters to be sent to the foresaid citties, how, and what, they should write; yea peraduenture, who should endite them: Maister Caluin presently, speedeth a messenger one Budaeus, with his priuate letter vnto his priuate friendes, as to Maister Bullinger, &c. and with other letters also to the rest of the said Ministers ioyntly: of purpose to prepare and pre-occupate their mindes beforehand, against their magi∣strates should write thither. Now I am come to the very panting or short breathing of the Consistoriall pretended Discipline, whether it shoulde liue or die at Geneua. The daunger it lay in, was exceeding great: but maister Caluin applied all his skill and medicines, for the recouerie of it. Few Phisitions will take such paines for their patientes.

* 1.54In his said letters, hee omitteth no point of his oratorie faculty.* 1.55 The aduersaries of his discipline he painteth out in their collours: as that their Senate was possessed with a lamen|

table blindnesse: that they had dealt contumeliously with poore straungers: that they had vsed Farellus very hardly: that di∣uerse of them were such as shamed not to defend Seruetus the he∣reticke: and that they were Sathans Ministers that stirred vp these strifes. He indeuoureth to moue all commiseration towardes himselfe and his associates, in respect of their paines and daungers, vndertaken in the behalfe of that Church: as that for seuen yeares together, they had been im∣pugned, by all those that sought to liue riotously, from vnder the yoake: that for the space of foure yeares, nothing had been pre∣termitted by the wicked, whereby they might by little and little ouerthrowe the state of that Church: and that for the last two yeares, their condition was no better, then if they had liued a∣mongest the professed enemies of the Gospell.

He ascribeth very much vnto the ministers: to whome he writ: which was an especiall meanes to procure their good fauours. As (when he saith) now the matter is come to this point, that all our ecclesiasticall orders shall be quashed, nisi istinc afferatur remedium:* 1.56 except there come a remedie from you. Againe: you must so deale, as if the state of our Church were in your handes. Againe, nunc extremus actus agitur: now the last act is vpon the stage: and the enemies of the Gospell, are begin∣ning alreadie, to triumph against Christ his doctrine, his mini∣sters, and all his members. Againe: so perswade your selues: that if Sathan be not now bridled by you: habenas ei laxatum iri: he will get the libertie of his bit hereafter at pleasure. And againe, I beseech you brethren, by the name of Christ: to thinke that it is no common matter, that is committed vnto you: but that the consultation to be had, is of the state or very being of our Church. He touched furthermore, all other points: which hee was sure would be especially regarded by them, being them∣selues ministers: in that (he saith) that if their aduersaries

get the victorie, the whole authoritie of the ministerie, is not one∣ly gone in Geneua: but that it will be subiect, to euery base rake∣bels reproches. Which if it should happen, he telleth them, that he was resolued to depart thence.

Vnto all these artificiall points, thus insisted vppon by him: he addeth another, of no lesse importance, to drawe the said ministers mindes vnto the bent of his bowe. For notwithstanding hee ascribeth so much vnto them, as be∣fore hath been shewed: yet he qualifieth all, in such sorte, as that they might suspect, that except they did concurre with his desire, he would hardly for his part, yeald to anie thing that might crosse him.

He writeth vnto them, very moderately, of his cōsisto∣riall platforme. He saith, he is not ignoraunt how diuerse lear∣ned men,* 1.57 do not thinke that forme of Discipline, that hee writeth for, to be necessary: but yet hee addeth, what his owne opinion is of it, and that he trusteth no man of iudgement will improoue the vse of it, where it is. He also goeth further, and protesteth, that whilest he sustaineth the person, that then he did, (meaning belike whilest he should be the chiefe pastor at Geneua) hee would striue to the death, for that forme of Discipline. But yet toward the end, he tempereth all againe in some sorte. For else it had been a ridiculous matter, to haue referred their doubtes to those Cities; and withall to haue signified vnto them, that thus and thus we are resolued: and if you shall iudge otherwise, we care not for your iudgements: for we will surely sticke to our owne. He therefore thus qualifi∣eth this point, saying, nec morositate nostra fiet, vt loco potius cedamus, quam sententia: we will not bee so wilfull, as that wee minde rather to leaue our places, then our opinions. Meaning (as I take it) that seeing they had put their cause into their hands: they would be content to stand to their directions.

You do looke I am sure to know, to what purpose mai∣ster Caluin vsed all this Rhetoricke: and what the matter was which hee desired at their handes. He himselfe shall tell you, as he told maister Bullinger. Breuis summa est, &c. The summe thereof briefly is this: that your honourable Senate may giue this aunswere: vz: that the forme of our Discipline, which heretofore we haue followed, is consentanea verbo dei: agree∣able to the word of God: deinde nouitatem improbet: and then let them reproue the newsanglenesse of our Citizens. Indeed if he can get that aunswere, it is to the matter: and (of like∣lyhood) will serue his turne. But what do the magistrates of Geneua all this while, you will say▪ Surely: I tolde you before. As soone as they could: they writ, and sent their letters, to the said foure Cities. Of those that came to Zu∣ricke, maister Bullinger writeth: that they were but short: and so I thinke we may iudge of the rest. The effect of which letters was:* 1.58 vz: that they of those Cities would resolue them. 1. How excommunication was to be vsed by the worde of God. 2. Whether it might not be vsed by some other meanes, then by a consistorie. 3. What the practise of their Churches was in that point. Vppon the receite of these letters, (euen as maister Caluin foresaw it would come to passe) there were appointed in Zuricke foure: the Consull and three Senators, to consult with three of their learned Ministers, what aunswere was meet to be giuen, to the said three questions.

If the magistrates of Geneua, had met with as good an o∣rator, as M. Caluin was: that would haue layd open the qualities and proceedings of the Consistorian faction; how they intermedled in all the common affayres of the citty: how they vsed to keepe men from the Communion, with∣out yeelding any other reason why they do so, but because soome of the godly bretheren (forsooth) were offended

with them: how, if a man haue committed any offence, for the which hee is punished, and professeth his harty re∣pentance for the same, yet they will keepe him from the Communion, vntill it please them to say, that he is peni∣tent inough, which they doe, as they affect the party. If in their letters they had infourmed, how vpon any light di∣spleasure, or rash information, their wiues, their children, and seruauntes: were called into the Disciplinarian Consisto∣ry, (a place for criminall persons) so as thereby, they were infamed: how they affected popularity, wholy, which might endaunger the Magistrates of the Citty, vppon any displeasure conceiued against them: how they of the citty had beene compassed, in the framinge of the platforme of the Consistory: how although there was a pretence of a Se∣nate, yet one man did all, and the rest, were but attendants of his pleasure: how by experience, they found, that theyr Bishop, did neuer tyrannise more ouer them, by his spiritual iurisdiction, then now some one man did: how the auto∣rity which had bene taught to belonge vnto them (beeing ciuile Magistrates,) was wholy taken from them againe, & nothinge lefte vnto them, but to bee the executioners of their Consistoriall mens pleasures: If they had foresene how likely it was, that M. Caluin, would seeke to discredite them all, to his vttermost, & had therfore signifyed vnto the Ma∣gistrates of these foure citties, that there were as honest & religious men in the Cittie of Geneua, that misliked that forme of Church-gouernment, as there were that spake for it: that if in their letters they depraued any, their euill wordes ought not to preiudice the cause, committed vnto them: for that it is their custome, to slaunder all those, that do impugne them: that they for their partes, the magi∣strates of that Cittie, rested all of them, as fully resolued to

continue the preaching of the Gospel amongst thē, as euer they were glad at the first to procure & admit it: If they had giuen some round intimation, that they the cittizens were resolued, to haue their Church reformed according to some of the platformes of the Heluetian Churches, and that they would no longer endure to be so ouer-looked and hampered, in their owne free Cittie, by such a pragmaticall and intermedlinge Discipline: If (I say) their letters had beene penned after this or some such like sort, as I suppose there was good cause: (the proceedings of that Consistory being such at that time as since they haue beene in other places) I doubt not, but that the ministers of those citties, would haue aduised their magistrates: to haue giuen an o∣ther kinde of aunswere then they did. For they the saide ministers belieuing Maister Caluins information, that all was true which he had reported vnto them: and conside∣ring, what a small matter it was, which hee and the rest of his associates required at their handes, & that the satisfying of them therein, might breake the backs of such a wicked conspiracy, as was pretended to haue beene made euen a∣gainst Christ himselfe and his Church: and not onely pre∣uente that mischiefe for that time, but procure the establi∣shinge of the Gospell there, for time to come hereafter; they dealt no otherwise for the sayde aunswere, then I am perswaded all the Bishops that now are in England, (if then they had liued) woulde haue done in the like case.

And that was in effect as Maister Caluin wished: sauing, that whereas he woulde haue had them to haue sayde,* 1.59 that the forme of the Geneua discipline was consentanea verbo dei, agreable to the worde of God, they refused to write in that sorte: but were content to say that it did accedere ad verbi dei praescriptum: that is, that it drewe towardes the prescript of gods

worde, or looked that way. But you shall heare Maister Bul∣linger himselfe report the aunswere of their Senate: which was: that they were grieued, theyr Church was so troubled, as that one quarrell and contention did begette another: that they had lately heard of the consistoriall lawes of that Church (for Caluin had sent such of them as he thought good, vnto the sayde ministers by Budaeus his messenger) and did acknow∣ledge them to be godly, and to drae towardes the prescript of gods worde: and therefore that the chaunging of them by any innouation, was not to be admitted in their opinions: that it was better, they should be wholy kept, especially in this age when men waxe worse and worse: that although (say they) our discip∣line doth not agree with that of Geneua in all points: yet the same being framed according to the circumstaunces of times, places, and persons, doth not import any ouerthrowe of yours: and that according to their desire of Geneua, they had sent vnto them, the forme of their discipline, not minding (as they said) to prescribe any iote of it, to them: for that they deemed their owne at Geneua, to be more meete for them there.

This being the summe of the aunswere agreed vppon by the sayde Senate at Zuricke; Maister Bullinger presently dispatcheth the same in a priuate letter to Caluin:* 1.60 and not that onely, but he also writ his letters at the same time, to the ministers of Schafhusen and Basill (two of those citties belike, to the which the deciding of the saide questions was also referred) signifying what aunswere the magistrates of Zuricke had made: that they likewise there, might con∣curre with them in their aunsweres for the peace and edification of the Church of Geneua, although (sayth he) you haue not the like forme of discipline in your Churches.

After that M. Bullinger had thus dispatched his priuate letters: the Senate then, soone after, sent their saide aun∣swere

to Geneua. Which being receiued, perused, and con∣sidered of: there was great muttering in the cittie. The magistrates thereby did finde themselues as it were in a la∣berinth. The strength of their state, did depend especial∣ly (as I iudge) vpon the league and frendship, which they had with the sayde fower citties. So as they might not doe any thinge: that shoulde dislike them. And on the other side, remēbring the great abuses of their Consistorialls, how they had formerly dealt with them, and tyrannized ouer them (as they supposed:) it greatly troubled them, to confirme vnto them, any such authoritie. It seemeth there∣fore, that they endeuoured to protract the time, as much as they could. And yet because they thought it meet, that some thing should be done vpon the receipt of the sayde aunswere: they caused a kinde of generall reconciliation, by giuing theyr right handes,* 1.61 and an oathe was taken, that none of them, for the time to come, would support any euill causes.

Maister Caluin being discontent with this plausible co∣lour of peace, as perceiuing that thereby the restoring of the Discipline, vnicus pacis custos: the onely preseruer of peace (as he tearmeth it) was neglected, and that their Church was still, like Noahs Arke in the floud: he grewe (after a short time) to be resolute, and prouoked the magistrates, to giue their an∣swere; whether they would followe the aduise of the sayd former Cities, or they would not. Whereupon (as it seem∣eth) the matter was put to voyces.

And now see the vpshoote. In illa promiscua collunie suf∣fragijs fuimus superiores, in that confused ofscouring of the whole multitude,* 1.62 (saith maister Caluin) we had the most voyces. It is very worthy the obseruation, and to bee kept likewise in perpetuall memory: in what honourable presence (accor∣ding

to maister Caluins own estimation) by how reuerend a companie of learned fathers, and famous persons, and with what singular grauitie, great wisedome, and mature deliberation, this solemne and glorious forme of the pre∣tended holy Discipline, was reuiued againe and intertai∣ned at Geneua. In illa promiscua colluuie suffragijs fuimus su∣periores. In that disordered dunghill of riffraffe, tagge and ragge, our presbyteriall platforme, hauing moste of their voyces, carried away the bucklers. No doubt a worthie victorie: For if an assembly be called colluuies (as I take it is) a maiori parte, of the greater part: what godly man li∣uing would not then haue flung vp his cappe and reioy∣ced, to haue seene the noble Consistorye triumphing that day, with the applause and approbation of so honourable a company. Men may talke hereafter of the councell of Nice with shame inough: if they shall compare it with this royal assembly. In good earnest, seeing the multitude of all the Citizens of Geneua, was content to gratifie maister Caluin so much: it might haue become him well inough, to haue recompensed their friendships with some better tearmes. But let that go: if the Citizens themselues do take it well at his hands to be so vsed by him: it shall not any way trouble me any further.

When maister Caluin had well considered, how hardly he had obtained his conquest, and how it was not very vn∣like, but that some of those, who had before opposed them selues, would still be practising to ouerthrowe his worke againe, if possibly they coulde: hee aduised (as it should seeme) with his best and surest friendes, what course was meetest to be thought of, and taken for the preuenting of so notable a mischiefe. And their plot was: howe they

might strengthen their saide Colluuies or greater part, for the better continuance of it. The present oportunitie ser∣ued their purpose. Whereupon like wise men, they so hammered their matters whilest the Iron was hot: that they procured fiftie of maister Caluins owne nation, all of them meere Frenchmen to be admitted Cittizens at one time in Geneua.* 1.63 Which was a point of very great impor∣tance. For (as I take it) the people hauing reserued to them selues (as Bodiue saith) ius i••be••••dae legis, authoritie to make lawes: the Eldership being set vp by them, could not be o∣uerthrowne afterwardes without them. And then to haue such an increase of assured friends, that would sticke as fast to maister Caluin, as the skinne did to his forehead: was surely a great matter in so little a towne. And as this polli∣cie was put in practise for the Citizens: so I coniecture it was also from time to time, as touching the ministers.

None but Frenchmen might rule there in that Consi∣storie: if maister Caluin could helpe it. When the Magi∣strates vpon a time would needes haue one Trollietus a Ge∣neuian borne, to bee one of their ministers: heare (I pray you) how maister Caluin writeth thereof, to his friend Vi∣retus.* 1.64 Trollietus quidam, quod natione sit Geneuensis &c. One Trollietus, because he is a Geneuian borne, is obtruded vnto vs: in whome there do appeare many signes, which none of vs like of. Aud I see not any thing in him worthy a Minister: nisi quod Simiae amant suos catulos: but that apes loue their whelpes. So as I gesse, that for maister Caluins time: no Apes were fit for his turne, but his owne. Though maister Caluin writ in this sort, (merrily peraduenture) to his familiar friend: yet maister Beza was not bound to haue published such a disgrace in print against those, that haue deserued better

of him. But this partialitie in the choyse of their ministers; was not a matter that much offended any; for ought I find. Marry the other deuise, of making fiftie Frenchmen, Citi∣zens at a clappe: did wonderfully trouble many. It caused a present mutinie in the Citie and a great vprore: the sparks whereof were neuer quenched, as long as maister Caluin liued.

And thus you haue the birth, and confirmation, of the Consistoriall discipline with a deuise for the continuance of it: collected (for the most part) out of such Epistles as Beza hath thought meete, to publish, for maister Caluins commendation. If I should haue set them both downe; as some others haue done: (who are no Papistes) you should haue heard another manner of history. But I like not to take thinges, at the worst hand. The trueth was it I sought for. And I would not haue done that neither in this point: but because certaine persons of the consistoriall humour, doe daily vpon euery occasion, still dash vs in the teeth, with the orders of Geneua: the discipline at Geneua: and the Consistorie in Geneua: as though that forme of discipline, had come lately from heauen: with an embas∣sage from God, that all the Churches in the worlde must frame and conforme themselues, to the fashion of Gene∣ua. Which gaue me iust occasion (in mine opinion) to search (as you haue heard) into the secrets of that manner of Discipline: to knowe indeede, from whence it came, whether it would, who deuised it: when, and how, it was planted at Geneua: the first place that hatched and recea∣ued it.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Numb. 16.
• * 1.2

  Treatise of obedience.
• * 1.3

  Ibid. pa. 114.
• * 1.4

  Ibid.
• * 1.5

  Iohn Wall, o•• Ball in the time of Iacke Cades rebel∣lion, in Rich. 2. daies.
• * 1.6

  Chroni. par. vlt.
• * 1.7

  Munster.
• * 1.8

  Simlerus de repub. Helu.
• * 1.9

  Munster.
• * 1.10

  Bodinus de repub. pa. 353
• * 1.11

  Caluin to Sa∣dolet. pag. 172
• * 1.12

  Ibid.
• * 1.13

  Bodinus de repub. pa. 353
• * 1.14

  Bodi. meth. pag. 243.
• * 1.15

  De. repub∣Helu.
• * 1.16

  Munster Cos. Sleidan lib. 10 Simlerus de rep. Heluit.
• * 1.17

  D. L.
• * 1.18

  Cap. 25. Aphoris. 21.
• * 1.19

  De auth. mag. in subd. &c. vindic. cont. Tirannos. Hottom. Francog. &c.
• * 1.20

  Beza in vita Calu.
• * 1.21

  Calu. de ne∣ces. ref. eccl. pa. 64.
• * 1.22

  Calu: to Sad:
• * 1.23

  Beza in vit. Calu:
• * 1.24

  Ibid.
• * 1.25

  Beza in vit. Calu.
• * 1.26

  Capit. to Far∣ell. epl Cal. 6
• * 1.27

  Beza invit. Cal.
• * 1.28

  Capit, to Far∣ell epl. Cal. 6.
• * 1.29

  Beza in vit. Cal:
• * 1.30

  Capit. to Far∣ell. epl. Cal. 6.
• * 1.31

  Cal. epI. 40
• * 1.32

  Beza: in vit. Cal.
• * 1.33

  Cal. epl. 10.
• * 1.34

  Calu. epist. 17
• * 1.35

  Beza in Vit. Calu.
• * 1.36

  Calu. to Viret Epist. 25.
• * 1.37

  Calu. to Fa∣rel. Epist. 50.
• * 1.38

  Calu. epist. 54.
• * 1.39

  Beza in Vit. Calu.
• * 1.40

  Cal. to Viret. Epist. 76.
• * 1.41

  Calu. Epist. 71
• * 1.42

  Ibidem.
• * 1.43

  Cal▪ to Viret. cp. 77.
• * 1.44

  Cal: to Farell. ep. 23.
• * 1.45

  Cal. to Viret: ep. 25.
• * 1.46

  Cal. ep. 79.
• * 1.47

  Cal. to Viret. ep. 73.
• * 1.48

  Cal. to Viret. ep. 3.
• * 1.49

  Cal. to Viret. ep. 73.
• * 1.50

  Cal. to Viret. ep. 82.
• * 1.51

  Cal. ep. 165.
• * 1.52

  Beza de vit. Caluin:
• * 1.53

  Calu. to the minist▪ of Tig. ep. 165.
• * 1.54

  Calu. to Bul. epist. 164.
• * 1.55

  Calu. to the minist. of Zu∣rick epist. 165
• * 1.56

  Ibid.
• * 1.57

  Ibidem.
• * 1.58

  Bullinger to Cal. epist. 166
• * 1.59

  Bul. to Calu. epist. 166.
• * 1.60

  Bul. to Calu. epist. 166.
• * 1.61

  Calu. to Bul. epist. 171.
• * 1.62

  Calu.' to Bul. epist. 207.
• * 1.63

  Bod. de repu. lib. 2 Calu. 6.
• * 1.64

  Cal. to Viret. epist. 586.