Abuses stript, and whipt. Or Satirical essayes. By George Wyther. Diuided into two bookes

To the Lords of his Maiesties most hono∣rable Priuy Counsell.

EPIGR. 6.

MOst Honor'd Lords; I heere present this book, To your graue censures, not to shew my Art: Nere did you on so rude a matter looke, Yet tis the token of an honest heart, I did it not to please, nor flatter any, Nor haue I made it for the thirst of gaine: For I am sure it wil not humor many, And I expect much hatred for my paine. Here somthing you may see that now requires, Your care and prouidence to haue't amended: That's the maine poynt to which my Muse aspires, And whereto I haue all my labour tended: It may be there be some out of their hate, Will mis-interpret what is plainely ment;

Or tax me as too saucy with the State, In hope to make me for the Truth be ••hent, Yet know Great Lords, I do acknowledge heere, It is your wisdomes that next God maintaines, This Kingdomes good; And from my heart I beare•• A reuerent respect vnto your paines. I do not, as such faine would haue it seeme, Presume to teach your wisedomes what is best, I do not my owne knowledge so esteeme, Vile selfe conceit I from my heart detest. But for because I know the percing'st eye, Can neuer into all abuses see; And since the greatest in Authority, May not behold some-time so much as we: What therefore I haue thought to be amisse And worth amending I haue told it heere: I know your Honors wil be pleas'd in this, Though some (it may be) cannot rage forbeare. But if there's any take this writing badly, Had it told all, it would haue vext him madly.