The lives of two and twenty English divines eminent in their generations for learning, piety, and painfulnesse in the work of the ministry, and for their sufferings in the cause of Christ : whereunto are annexed the lives of Gaspar Coligni, that famous admirall of France, slain in the Parisian massacre, and of Joane Queen of Navarr, who died a little before / by Samuel Clarke ...

The Life and Death of Master William Bradshaw, who died Anno Christi, 1618.

IT hath from time to time been the lot of divers persons of singular worth, and eminent parts, that they have lived in obscurity, and in a low conditi∣on, and past their time without that due respect, and regard, which their excellent endowments might justly have claimed; partly through the shortnesse of outward supplies; (for, they get not up easily, though never so well deserving, that are scanted in that kinde) partly by reason of an inward bashfulnesse, and over-awing modesty, accompanied with an undervaluing repute of them∣selves, and their own abilities; and partly through the iniquity of the times, wherein they have lived, and the disaffection of those who have swayed most in the State and Government under which they have re∣sided. Such was the condition of that worthy and faithfull servant of the Lord, Master William Bradshaw, though a man richly endowed, as well with such spiritual graces, as in truth are of highest esteem, being peculiar to Gods favourites, that have interest in his Christ, as with such gifts and parts also, as might, and did render him usefull and in∣strumental for the publick good of Gods people; yet never enjoying any plentifull condition; howsoever never prone to complain of want; nor forward at any time, or in any place to put himself forth, as having ever a very low and mean conceit of his own parts, and admiring in o∣thers, what his own eye either could not descry, or would not take no∣tice of (howsoever to others conspicuous enough) in himself; and be∣ing never suffered to continue long quiet in any setled place of more pub∣lick imployment, through the envy and malice of some that had a jea∣lous eye on him, and the disturbances of him in the work of his Mini∣stry, set on foot by others ill-affected towards him, but accrewing from the same, pursued by some of those, who were of greatest power and authority in Ecclesiastical affairs, and could not brook any, that did not in all particulars comply with them and their courses, as they conceived him not to do.

He was born at Bosworth, a Market-Town in Leicestershire, famous for the Battell fought near to it, wherein that bloody Usurper, Ri∣chard the third lost his Crown, (attained by the unnatural murther

of his two Nephews in their non-age,) together with his life.* 1.1 His Father Nicholas Bradshaw, though descended from an ancient Family of the Bradshaws in Lancashire, with the crest of whose Coat therefore be∣ing a Buck browzing, this our Brother used to seal; yet living but in a mean condition, and being not so well able therefore to train this his Son up in learning as he desired; an Uncle that he had at Worcester un∣dertook the education of him;* 1.2 whether being Master of the Free-School there, as some have supposed, or of some other Profession, as some other conjecture: for that he hath been heard to report, that Master William May, (who was sometime by the Turky Merchants imployed at Aleppo, and afterward lived and ended his dayes in or about London, a man of more then ordinary skill in the learned languages, and in Ex∣position of Scripture very accurate and exact) was Teacher in a pub∣lick School at Worcester, while he lived there; relating withall, what a neat man he then was, howsoever in his after-dayes he grew Cynically sordid, and by his uncouth deportment and jealous disposition, made himself nothing so usefull to others, as otherwise he might have been. But however it was for his Uncles Profession, under him (who by some Relations of his may not improbably be deemed to have been a Scri∣vener or publike Notary) he was brought up and kept at School, un∣till it pleased God to bereave him of this support by his death. Af∣ter whose decease, returning home to his Father at Bosworth,* 1.3 he was enforced, though very much against his minde and desire, to intermit the prosecution of his studies in literature for some space of time; His Father now designing him to some other course of life out of despaire of maintaining him in a way so chargeable, as his meanes, being not large, would not reach unto; especially having other Children, three Sons and two Daughters to provide for, besides him. But while the disposall of him hung thus in suspence, it pleased the Lord (who is wont to have a more speciall Providence over those, whom in his secret pur∣pose he hath fore-designed unto the work of his Ministry,* 1.4 to have them fit∣ted for the same) to stir up the spirit of one Master Ainsworth, a man of much worth, then School-Master at Ashby de la Zouch in Leicester∣shire, to divert his Parents purpose of disposing him to any other im∣ployment. For by his favour, (having taken notice of his capacity, in∣dustry, eager desire of farther progresse in good literature, fitnesse of disposition to be wrought upon to that purpose, and by some buds sprouting out from such seeds thereof as had already been sown in him, conceiving good hopes of such future fruits, as did accordingly ensue) he was taken into the Free-School there; where he so profited, and made so successefull a proceed, that after a years continuance, being then a∣bout eighteen years of age, he was deemed sufficiently fitted and fur∣nished for the University; and in the year 1589. was,* 1.5 together with that worthy man of great renown, Joseph Hall, after Bishop of Exceter first, then of Norwich, and Hugh Cholmeley, (who had both been trained up in the same Schooll with him, and did continue also afterward a kinde affection to him, and friendly correspondence with him)

he was admitted into Emanuel Colledge in Cambridge;* 1.6 where with them also he followed his studies under the tuition of that reverend Di∣vine Master Gilbie, then Fellow of that Colledge; being there main∣tained, partly by the allowance of some Gentlemen his fellow-pupils under the same Tutor; and partly by some supplies afforded him from two noble Knights of the honourable house of the Hastings, Sir Ed∣ward and Sir Francis, (on the latter of whom his Father also had some dependence) upon the recommendation, and at the motion of that worthy servant of God, now with God, Master Arthur Hildersham, who was himself also allied to that Family. In the Colledge with these supports he continued, husbanding his time to the best advantage, with an abundant blessing of God upon his sedulous endeavoures,* 1.7 to a clear evidence of large improvement, manifesting it self in such scholerly exercises, as his time and place there required (in the performance whereof speciall notice was taken of him, as an acute and eager dispu∣tant) untill he had taken both Degrees, first that of Batcheler, and af∣ter that of Master of Arts. But then, being not capable of a Fellowship in that Colledge, for that the Statutes of the House admitted not above one of the same Shire, and of that one for Leicester-shire Master Jo∣seph Hall before-mentioned, being of the same time and standing with him, was already possessed; and having refused a Vicarage, endowed with some competent yearly revenue, by that Noble Knight Sir Edward Hastings one of his Patrons tendered him, not daring yet to adventure on a work of that nature; Master Laurence Chaderton then Master of the Colledge, and the first from the very foundation of it,* 1.8 bearing a singular affection to Master Bradshaw, as well for his parts of learning, as for his pious deportment, but being unable for the cause above-mentioned to bring him in there, cast about with him∣self, how to procure a place, and get some employment for him else∣where.

Some years before, that right Honourable and thrice Noble Lady, Frances Sidney,* 1.9 Countesse of Sussex, had by her last Will and Testa∣ment given order for the erecting and endowing of a Colledge in Cam∣bridge, to be furnished with a certain number of Fellows and Scholars under one Master or Head. The Colledge was now in building, by the provision of the Right Honourable the Earl of Kent, and Sir John Har∣rington, instructed by her for the performance of that work; and Ma∣ster James Mountague Sonne to Sir Edward Mountague, then living as Fellow-Commoner, but Student in Divinity, among the Fellows of Christs Colledge, was designed for Master. With him dealt Master Chaderton in Master Bradshaws behalf; To have him set down for a Fellows place there: which through his Mediation was from those No∣ble Trustees without difficulty obtained. But because some space of time would runne out, ere the building of the Colledge could be con∣summated and made fit for receipt; it was thought good in the interim, to dispose of Mr. Bradshaw for some imployment elsewhere, untill he might be setled there. It fell out (God so disposing it) that Sir Tho∣mas

Leighton Governour of Guernsey, wanting one to be imployed a∣bout the instruction and education of his children, and having requested that worthy servant of Christ Master Cartwright, abiding then at Cor∣net-Castle with him, to write unto Master Chaderton, to furnish them with one fit for such a charge, this Letter of Master Cartwrights arrived with Master Chaderton in that juncture of time, wherein he and Ma∣ster Montague had this businesse in agitation about Master Bradshaw: and the matter being by them broken to him, who referred himself wholly to what they should advise; it was joyntly agreed, that Master Bradshaw should be sent, or lent rather, unto them, to undertake that charge, and continue in the discharge of it, untill the Colledge building were compleated, wherein upon return thence he was then to reside.

Thither therefore long without delay, being furnished with Letters of recommendation from those here to them there, he addressed himself;* 1.10 and, through Gods goodnesse, arriving safe there, was with all kinde and courteous entertainment by them received. By this occasion he became throughly known to, and inwardly acquainted with Master Cart∣wright, who highly esteemed of him, renewed, or pursued rather his acquaintance with him, after both Master Bradshaws,* 1.11 and his own return also into England, (as may appear by entercourse of Letters yet to be seen, written by him to Master Bradshaw, while he stayed behind him in Guernsey, and from Warwick also after his departure from thence) and to his dying day continued expressions of entire affection to him, and due respect of him, as also both before and after his decease, his Chil∣dren, both Sonne and Daughters, and those that they were matched unto, rnd his Widow also, did. And indeed such was his demeanure, wheresoever he came, that he left behind him a gratefull memory of him, in the hearts and minds of all well affected, that had occasion to take notice of it; not unlike therein to musk or civet, that leave a sweet sent behind them, even for a long time after they be gone, in the boxes wherein they were formerly kept, the which continued after his departure thence, not among the French Ministers alone in that Island, but among such also of the old Garrison Souldiers, on whom Master Cartwrights Ministry had had some efficacious and gracious work; Who, as Sir Peter Osburn, who had afterward the government of that place, hath been heard to relate, would be oft talking of one Master Bradshaw, that had lived sometime there, and speak with much affection of him. But for his constant carriage during his abode there, his piety, industry, integrity, fidelity in discharge of the trust reposed in him, and charge committed to him,* 1.12 together with his course of life and conversation o∣therwise unreproveable; as also the love and affection to him, earnest desire, if it might have been, of his continuance with them, and loath∣nesse to leave him, with these, who were, after some time spent among them there, then to part with him; all these things will by no meanes better appear, then by the Letters of that sincere Servant of God, and constant Champion of Christ, Master Thomas Cartwright of holy me∣mory,

and the relations concerning him therein contained, being writ∣ten and directed to divers in these parts, either neer upon, or at Ma∣ster Bradshaws departure from thence.

Among others, in one to Sir Francis Hastings of September the fifth, 1598. wherein he assures him of his diligence in following his studies,* 1.13 and of his sharp and ready capacity, likely through Gods blessing to bring forth such fruit of learning, as he might have good cause to rejoyce over any cost that he had been at with him, or should farther bestow that way on him; as also, of his love to the best things, and his conversation in the Family without reproach, for ought he could learn, having had an eye constantly on him. In another to Master Chaderton of December the fifth, (the time, it seems of his departure thence) wherein he thankfully acknow∣ledgeth the great benefit they had received by Master Bradshaw, procured by him to take so long and painfull a journey to them, and his wise and lo∣ving care in so good provision for them; returning thanks also to him, from Sir Thomas Leyghton the Governour, and his Honourable Lady for him; and withall requesting him, that they may once again taste of his ac∣customed love and care in that kind.

And in another yet more fully of the same date to Master Mountague in these words; The Law commandeth, that of things borrowed great care should be had for the well usage and due restoring of them. Both which we have endeavoured in Master Bradshaw: But the full performance must rest rather in yours and his acceptation, then in pay. For as touching the former of them, his desert of care to profit those committed to his charge, and his Behaviour otherwise in the house, hath been more then every one is able to esteem, and therefore in all respects not so fit to reward. For the other, (unless unwilling parting with him on all hands be against duty) you shall (we hope in the Lord) have him duly restored; Out of all doubt with all thankfulness to your Worship, by whose kindness, both we have enjoyed him some good time, sithence you of right might have taken him away, and he hath received a supply of recompence for that we were not able to make good unto him. And so with hearty thanks and commendations from the Governour and his Honourable Lady, and my humble thanks for your love, and this fruit I have received thereof by Master Bradshaw, I commend you to the gracious keeping and blessing of God in Jesus Christ. Unto this Letter Master Mountague now Master of the Colledge, upon Master Bradshaws access thither, returneth answer, both thanking him, for the remitting of him to them; (so that on no side thanks for him were wanting,* 1.14 so well was he esteemed of on either part) and withall advertising him of a very great danger, and no lesse deliverance, that neer unto his journeys end had betided him.

Whereunto Master Cartwright in a Letter of March 7. the same year thus replieth; Sir, It cometh from the abundance of your love, to thank me for that which duty it self required at my hands towards Master Bradshaw, and therefore the thanks are returned unto you, who esteem so highly of duty, as to let it go in the account of a Benefit or good turn. My hope is the same with yours, that the Lord, who by deliverance of him

from so great a death, bindeth him to a straighter obedience, hath set such an impression of it in his mind, as will be in stead of a watch to waken him every morning to all cheerfull service, which his place will require. And indeed the Letter he wrote of that matter, carrieth that sound, and even undertakes so much in his behalf. And in one to Master Bradshaw him∣self, after receipt of that from him, touched upon in the close fore∣going; That the Lord our most mercifull Father delivered you from so great a death, it pledges unto you deliverances hereafter, especially if they be inferiour to this. So much the rather, as the swimmer sunk like a piece of lead, and he that could no more swim then the Iron-head of the Scholars hatchet, was graciously born up: and therefore by how much the Proverb is true, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, by so much we have cause to praise God, that by the Angel of the waters saved you: And withall you may help to incourage others against the excessive fear of drowning in passing the Seas: Seeing it was more safe to you to passe the winter-Seas, even when they rage most, then the small brook of Hawston-Mills. I remembred you to Sir Thomas and my Lady; who told me that if any entertainment would have holden you, they would not have suffered you to have gone from them, and rejoyced much at your gracious escape. Subscribed, Your assured loving Brother and Fried, Thomas Cartwright.

The Escape in those Letters mentioned was this:* 1.15 Master Bradshaw being to leave Guernsey, shipped himself for England. Nor was his passage by Sea wholly free from hazard, for with so violent a storm were they surprized at Sea, that the Passengers most of them expected nothing but wrack, and a Gentlewoman among them, with another, whom she much affected attending upon her, did in a cord, by the waste fasten themselves either to other, that they might perish together, and draw their last breath, or breath it out rather, in the mutuall embraces either of other. But that storm being allaied, and the danger of it o∣ver, and the Ship with her Passengers now arrived in safety, Master Bradshaw having attained London, did there hire a Hackney, such as are commonly used on that Road, to convey him to Cambridge, there to enter upon the Fellowship prepared for him, and assigned unto him; by help of which Beast, he got so far on his way in safety, that he was now within three miles of his journeys end. But danger oft lieth in wait for us, where we least of all either expect or suspect it; and then many times overtakes, and surprizeth us unawares, when we deem our selves wholly past danger, and are neer approaching our intended, much desired, and now fully expected Port, and have alwaies need therefore both of an eye of Providence constantly on us, and of an hand of protection continually over us. For being there to passe a small Brook crossing the road near to a Village called Hawston, and the Water-mills seated on it, thence Hawston Mills; he that had escaped so eminent and apparent a danger at Sea, lighten on, and fell into that unexpectedly, that proved much more hazardous on land, where no appearance was of ought in that kind: for being unacquainted with the course of the stream, otherwise passed ordinarily, and that daily without danger, and having not fetched a

compasse far enough, as he ought to have done, the Beast that bare him plunged suddainly into the Mill-pond, or pit; and being not able to recover it self, therein perished, and there left him floating in a strong vertiginous current, unskilfull in swimming, (nor had any such skill in likelihood been available in such a case to have saved him) and altoge∣ther unable to shift for himself; where he must of necessity have gone the same way with the Beast, had not either some one occasionally look∣ing out of the Mill,* 1.16 or some Passenger on the way, espying one floating in that manner, and at the very pinch of perishing, called hastily on the Miller, or those next at hand to let slip down the Flood-gates; by means whereof the stiffe current of the water-course was stayed, and this Ser∣vant of God, though not without much difficulty, rescued out of the water, and delivered unexpectedly out of that his, in a manner, even de∣sperate distresse.

And it may indeed justly be deemed a wonder of wonders, (in regard whereof that venerable Minister of Christ before-mentioned, seems to have apprehended the ministry of an Angel used in it) that he was not suddainly in an instant, either swallowed up in that whirling gulf, or hurried away with the violent course of the current, and that he should bear up and keep above water, so long in a place of that nature. For he hath been heard to relate, that while he continued thus floating and strug∣ling with that wheeling surface, it troubled him not a little, that he could not addresse himself as he desired to prepare for his departure, though having nothing but death in his eye, while his ear was taken up with the voice of some talking in the Mill, from whom he supposed yet some help might come, though neither was he able to call unto them, nor they to hear him.

Thus even Gods Children themselves find a defect oft in themselves, that they cannot with such an exact composure of spirit, in times of distress address themselves unto God, untill he have pulled away all outward pro∣sperity, as well hopes, as helps from them. But being by a special Pro∣vidence of God thus recovered, and as another Moses drawn out of the water, and brought into the Millers house, he was there shifted, and put into such dry apparell, as the Miller himself used to wear; in which garb when some of his acquaintance found him, who upon tydings of of this occurrent, came posting over to him from Cambridge, they could not forbear smiling to see him sitting in that habit, though not a little affected with the casualty occasioning it, and no lesse heartily glad∣ned for the gracious issue that God hath pleased to afford it, and expres∣sing much thankfulnesse for his mercy and goodnesse therein manifested. The Lord it may seem would hereby fit this his servant reserved to o∣ther hot and hazardous services, unto a farther and firmer dependance in and under them upon him.

But thus his Horse lost, (which to the Carrier its owner, as by his default mis-carrying, requiring it, was made good) being after his e∣scape and recovery somewhat revived and refreshed, and fitted again with a wonted Suit, he was with some of those his acquaintance accompa∣nied

to Cambridge, and repaired to the Colledge; where having present∣ed himself to the Master, he was entertained in the Chamber of one of the Fellows, that assigned him, being not yet fit to receive him, (as in∣deed they came all to very raw Chambers at first) and the use of that offered him, untill his own could be fitted and furnished for him:* 1.17 which being his first entertainment there, albeit but a sorry courtesie to speak of, yet did so affect him, as upon occasion, to some of his familiar friends he afterward professed, (of so ingenuous and gratefull a dispo∣sition he was, and so prone with thankfulnesse to acknowledge,* 1.18 and to set an high rate on the least kindnesse shewed him, or meanest office done for him) that it laid the ground-work, or first stone thereof at least with him, for such an Union of inward and entire affection, and well fastned knot of unreserved familiarity and strictest friendship, as did af∣terward ensue between them two, and so continued, not only while they abode in the Colledge together, by a mutual communication of their studies, counsels, courses and purposes either to other; but even after also, when through distance of abode they were severed the one from the other, by a constant course of vicissitudinary writing, therein advising either with other, and discussing mutually such questions and doubts, wherewith either of them were occasionally encountred; by meanes whereof they received much help and light either from other; and albeit in some particulars either not so clear, or not so cleared to their joynt apprehensions, their judgment might, and did sometime dif∣fer, (which having on occasion professed to a Friend, desiring to know their joynt judgment in a case then questioned, and seeming to marvell that they two should be of divers minds in ought, he made answer, that it was no wonder at all, it might rather be wondred, considering mans con∣dition in intellectuals, so impaired and clouded, that any two seriously set upon the search of truth, should not in many particular cases dissent; yea that if in every particularity they should wholly concurre, it might seem to savour rather of a cunningly contrived compact or conspiracy, then a reall and rational consent) yet where by force of argument they seemed con∣vict, or any mistake manifested, they were ready to yeeld, and did in∣deed in not a few things, come home either to other,* 1.19 unto their mutu∣al much advantage; nor did their remaining differences ever produce any breach, or abatement of affection between them, but that the knot once knit, from the first to the last, continued firm and inviolate, never loosed nor slackned, so long as God was pleased to lengthen out the line of his life.* 1.20

In the Colledge he so demeaned himself, that though the Fellows were not all of one mind, or one way, and there were among them (as usually in Societies of that nature) men of divers dispositions, and sub-divisions consequently of companies, consisting of such as more fa∣miliarly consorted, and more inwardly conversed with some few, whom selected from the rest they most affected; yet so loving and lowly, yeel∣ding to all, and complying with all, was his carriage, that notwithstand∣ing he were by some deemed over-strict, and would freely as occasion

was, speak his mind, and deliver his judgment, yet he retained ever the, professed at least good liking,* 1.21 and external kind usage from them all: Where it will not be amisse to relate a speech of one of them, (a man by occasion of some discontents strongly and strangely possessed with a spirit of jealousie and suspitiousness of every one, even his inwardest and entirest friends, which in the end proved his overthrow) who ha∣ving entertained a conceit, that something spoken by Master Bradshaw in a dispute should have a glance closely at somewhat that concerned him, and having discovered that his suspition to a common bosome-friend of them both, (by whom also upon disclose of that groundless conceit, he was evidently convinced of his errour therein) he used these words of him, Although I am sure, he had a gird at me, yet the man is of so kind and loving a disposition, that I could not be angry with him, though be had broken my head. But I cannot let passe one remarkable Instance that may evidently manifest in him a due temper (which is not over-frequently found) of freedome of spirit, and discreet demeanure, wisely mixed, and well consistent the one with the other.

During his abode in Guernsey, a Question was on foot, among Divines of special note, on either side yet in debate, concerning the lawfulness of some pecuniary contracts, wherein Master Cartwright having by writing declared his mind, in way of answer to some arguments objected against it: Master Bradshaw being required by him freely to discover his judgment therein, and seriously to consider of that his answer, albeit of himself he would not have adventured to undertake such a task; yet being so put upon it, he did it freely and largely, with as much strength of wit and argument,* 1.22 (it may not without ground be deemed) as any have done, that have hitherto dealt on that subject; and yet so discreetly and respectively managing the business, that though being then of a contrary judgment, he used his best forces and strongest en∣deavoures to shake and shatter Master Cartwrights grounds, yet did it not breed any breach between them, nor did it (that could be discern∣ed) lessen Master Cartwrights either affection to him, or esteem of him; which from time to time, as occasion was, and as in part hath already been shewed, he was ever ready to expresse. Howbeit it must withall for a truth be ackowledged, that Master Bradshaw, howsoever in the Colledge performing a Divinity-Problem,* 1.23 as they term it, did still stiffely maintain that his former Tenet; yet upon farther consi∣deration in his latter dayes, he is known to have altered his judgment therein.

While he stayed in the Colledge, that he might with the more free∣dome employ that talent that the Lord had committed unto him, he en∣tred into the Ministry;* 1.24 the rather advised (as some other also were) so to do, while admission was yet more easie, and the way of entrance lesse obstructed, in regard of some things, which out of diversity of judgment, and tenderness of conscience he stuck at; then was by pru∣dent men, observing how State-businesses began to be carried, deemed

like to last long. And at the motion of one Master Pigot, a religious Gentleman residing at Abington about eight miles from Cambridge,* 1.25 he rode weekly over thither, there to preach every Lords Day for some good space of time; joyning also in a weekly Lecture, as he had oppor∣tunity, with some other neighbour Ministers, at a greater Town called Bassingborn not farre thence distant. Afterward he was drawn over to Steeple-Morden in the same shire, by one Master Martin,* 1.26 an ingenuous Gentleman, who enjoying the appropriation, entertained him as a Le∣cturer, in regard of the infirmity of the party that was possessed of the Vicarage.

But while he was thus taken up with employments abroad, there a∣rose a storm against him at home, and that upon this occasion. About that time two Leicestershire Ministers of his acquaintance,* 1.27 Master Dar∣rel and Master Moor, being questioned about the dispossession of Wil∣liam Somers and Thomas Darling, (besides some others) supposed to be by evil spirits possessed, the one of them, to wit, Darling stood stiffely in avowing the truth of the thing, and refused to acknowledge any deceit or collusion therein; yea though many slights were used to enduce him thereunto, and Letters forged and tendered to him in Master Darrels name, as beginning to grow somewhat suspitious of the busi∣nesse, yet nothing could prevail with him; but the other, to wit, Somers,* 1.28 being in like manner dealt with, and enticed by large Promises of such provision to be made for him, that he should be sure not to want, nor should need to go down into his own Countrey again, was perswaded to accuse Master Darrell to have set him on work, and taught him how to act sundry strange feats and gestures, whereby he might be deemed to be a Demoniak. Whereupon some of the Bishops, London specially, in whose house the boyes had been kept apart, eagerly pursuing the business, the two Ministers were cited into the High Commission Court, and there being charged with imposture, were suspended and imprison∣ed untill further cognizance, and Master Harsnet [Londons Chaplain] mean while set on work to pen and publish a virulent Pamphlet against Master Darrell, traducing him therein as a Grand Impostour and Jugler, and the whole action about the possession and dispossession of William Somers, as a meer Puppet-play. Hence Master Darrell thus traduced, was enforced to write and publish something for the defence of himself, and clearing of his guiltlesness herein; and so did first in a briefer Nar∣rative concerning the manner of their proceedings with him, entituled his Triall; and afterward in a larger Answer to Harsnet, in way of far∣ther Apology for himself. Of these Books some Copies being sent down to Cambridge, were directed to Master Bradshaw, and a parcell of them by him delivered to one Underwood a Taylor, who dispersed of them as well in the Colledges as in the Town. Intimation hereof being given to Bishop Bancroft at London, that such Books were in divers hands at Cambridge, he writes to the Vicechancellor to make diligent enquiry after the dispersers of them. He lights on Underwood, whom upon examination, confessing that he had received a certain number of

them from Master Bradshaw, he bindeth in a bond to appear upon warn∣ing before the High Commission, and chargeth him withall not to give notice of ought to Master Bradshaw.

The next morning by seven of the clock Letters came from the Vice∣chancellor to the Master of the Colledge, requiring him at eight of the clock to repair unto him, and to bring Master Bradshaw with him. A∣bout the same time that these Letters came to the Master, an unknown Scholar repairing to Master Bradshaws Chamber, telleth him, that Un∣derwood was in trouble, and he should do well to look to himself. Master Bradshaw upon these tydings thus brought him, went presently to Master Wright the Senior Fellow of the house,* 1.29 to ask advice of him what to do in this case: he wished him to withdraw himself, and withall, directed him to Gransden, a Town about nine miles distant from Cambridge, as a fit place of retire, where one Master Castle a Gentleman well-affect∣ed, and Master Wrights Brother-in-law, he well knew, would be right-willing to receive him. But Master Bradshaw resolved first to have an assay made by some other, whereby it might be discovered, what the Masters mind herein was. Hereupon Master Ward was sent for, who being requested to break the matter to the Master, was right-willing and ready to undertake that Office. The Master mean while upon receit of the Vicechancellours Letter, had sent his man presently to enquire for Master Bradshaw at Master Gatakers Chamber, which in his absence then discontinuing he had the charge of, and kept most in, being more convenient then his own; he not finding him there, was returned back, just as Master Ward came in to the Master: Who upon his repair to him, having but named Master Bradshaw, the Master, before he could deliver any part of his errand, demandeth of him where Master Brad∣shaw was, and saith he must speak with him. Master Ward told him, It was not safe for Master Bradshaw to come to him, because he was in danger of the Vicechancellour. The Master replied, That therefore he must come; for that he had Letters from the Vicechancellour to bring him presently to him. Which Letters while he stept into his closet to fetch, that he might shew them to him, Master Ward a fast and true-hearted friend, more carefull of Master Bradshaws safety, then fearfull of the Masters displeasure, and his own danger, stayed not the Masters return, but slipt away with all speed to acquaint Master Bradshaw how things stood. The Master at hs return missing Master Ward, was exceeding∣ly enraged against him, and threatned to punish him, by setting a deep fine for example upon him. But the hour being now elapsed, which the Vicechancellour had set, the Master wrote back to him, that Master Bradshaw could not as yet be found. Master Bradshaw hereof advertised, albeit that all his friends there, were earnest with him to withdraw, yet for the present refused, and requested Master Wright to repair to the Master, that by him he might understand from him, what his resolute will was, which he purposed not to withstand. Master Wright, according to his request, repairing to the Master, found him in much heat: no nay he would have, but Master Bradshaw must needs go; it would else endanger

him, and endanger the Colledge, &c. Master Bradshaw enformed here∣of by Master Wright, not at all fearing to suffer in a good and just cause, as he deemed it to be, and no less loath to have any other en∣damaged, or endangered for him, (notwithstanding that his friends were all utterly against it) without farther dispute or delay, went pre∣sently to the Master, and presented himself to him; who entertaining him with hot and high terms, the good man answered him in a calm and meek manner, that he had no cause to be so much offended with him,* 1.30 or incensed against him; he knew not of any such Commission that he had, when he sent at first to him; but sent only to him for counsell in that case, deeming it better for him to do it by some other rather then by himself; and being loath to come into trouble in those turbulent times: (for the Earl of Essex his business was then on foot) and that so soon as he understood his pleasure, he readily condescended thereunto. The Master thereupon charged him by the authority of his place, to bring him all Master Darrels Books, that he had in his hands, and to go presently with him unto the Vicechancellour; which without far∣ther reply he yeelded unto. But while he was gone to fetch the Books, the Vicechancellour sent his servant to the Master, desiring him to come to himself; and the Master, his man to Master Bradshaw, charging him to stay within untill he returned. At his return Master Bradshaw of his own accord repaired to him; who then charged him, at twelve of the clock to repair to his Chamber, that he might take his Answer, and a Bond for his forth-coming. But Doctor Barwell Master of Christs Col∣ledge in the mean space coming to him, (whether about that business or upon some other occasion, uncertain) by his advice (it seems) the Master altered his mind; and in likelihood the rather, after much mutual consultation, and better consideration past between them, be∣cause both the Masters had themselves bought of the Books: for he sends for Master Wright, and now tells him, that it would be the best course for Master Bradshaw to go out of the way: which accordingly he did.* 1.31 The Bishop of London not long after wrote again to the Vice∣chancellour to imprison Underwood, and to make farther enquiry after Master Bradshaw, concerning whom the Master being by the Vice∣chancellour demanded; made answer, that he was not in the Colledge: whereunto he replied, that it was best so for him, not willing (as may be deemed) to be used as an instrument in molesting him, if it might be avoided. The carriage of this business, together with the se∣veral overtures and circumstances of it, is out of a Narrative of his own, the more particularly related, to shew both the discreet and mo∣dest, and yet ingenuous and couragious disposition of this Servant of God; and the remarkeable passages of Gods Providence in a concur∣rence of occurents so unexpectedly managed, that he should thereby be kept out of the clutches of those that were so exceeding thirsty to seize on him, and so fiercely bent against him.

Master Bradshaw being thereof informed by some Friends, and con∣sidering how the Bishop persisted in enquiry after him, conceived that

Cambridge for the present could be no safe or quiet place for him: and having therefore withdrawn himself, though retaining his place still there, he spent his time for the space of some moneths, partly with Master Pigot at Abington, and partly at Morden with Master Martine, in which places he had formerly exercised his Ministry, and as occasion required, so still did. Thus there hovering, in a Letter to a speciall Friend, whose good opinion of him he much valued, he thus writes; I fear it will be somewhat offensive unto you,* 1.32 and that you will condemn me for being too rash and indiscreet in this matter. But I trust you will consider that the thing I have done, was to pleasure most good and Christi∣an Friends; that the cause, it is the cause of God, and the glory of God hath been much increased by it, by reason of the truth of God shining therein; unto which I could not perform a less duty; there being no∣thing in the Books (as I am perswaded) against the State; howsoever there are many hot words, that might have been spared, though none that have not been deserved. I wish they had past my poor censure before the coming forth of them, they should not then have given so much advantage to the enemies of the truth. I will (God willing) flie the danger as much as I can, especially in these troublesome and tragicall times, which seem of purpose to be chosen, that they might do the more injury, and the speech may be the less. And in another to the same party; My danger for Master Darrel troubleth me not a whit, I thank God; neither do I repent of any thing I have therein done, so long as you think never the worse of me: other matters trouble my mind more, yet such is the goodness of God, that though they distract my mind from other studies needfull for me to wade into, yet when I come to exercise my poor Ministry, and to study for my Sermons, my mind is free enough. Thus is the Lord wont in more special manner to support the spirits of his servants, for such particular imployments, as he hath more specially assigned them unto.

The matter that more troubled him, was concerning his entrance into any setled place for the exercise of his Ministry, which he suppo∣sed would be, and upon some triall indeed found, every way so ob∣structed, that, albeit places of imployment enough were offered, and his imployment in them much desired, yet he could not conceive how it might be cleared in regard of the tenderness of his conscience, and scruple of some things that he stuck at, which were like to be tendred unto him, and pressed upon him, before admission thereunto; and that the rather in probability in regard of the prejudice now had of him for the business concerning those Books. For he had been offered the Rectory of Abington by Master Pigot the Patron, who would have com∣pounded with the present Incumbent for the bringing of him in: And Master Wendy likewise, a Religious Gentleman in those parts, had, to∣gether with some others, been endeavouring to bring him in at Basing∣born: but neither of them took effect. He was invited also to New-Castle in Staffordshire, whither also he repaired, but found not matters to his liking there: and after unto Yarmouth, to be Lecturer with them,

with assurance of a liberall maintenance from them; for they very much affected him. But that their design was crossed by the Bishop of the Diocesse, having a jealous eye as well on them as on him, and being de∣sirous to prefer and place a Chaplain of his own therefore there. To the Colledge he returned again after some time spent abroad,* 1.33 the storm seeming now to be over-blown, and howsoever there he met with no re∣newed molestation about the fore-mentioned business, yet had he no heart at all there to continue; partly in regard of the departure thence of a special friend, whom he intirely affected, of whose return thither, being now elsewhere setled, he was wholly out of hope; and partly be∣cause he perceived, that the Master did not then so affect him, as former∣ly he had done.

Amidst these distractions, a Preachers place falling vacant at Chatham in Kent, where a great part of the Navy Royal, and Officers of the same attending, did usually reside; the business of supplying them with an able and faithfull Teacher was by general consent referred to Master Chaderton, being at that time in Kent not far from thence, thither drawn over from Cambridge, about the consummating of a marriage between that reverend man of God Master Josias Nicols, who had passed ma∣ny sharp bickerings and brunts in those times, and the relict of that fa∣mous worthy Doctor Whitaker deceased. He commended Master Bradshaw to them. Concerning whom the piously affected party, after diligent inquiry, received such ample testimony, that (whereas divers other made first for the place, and by their labouring with some friends had wrought a siding among them, to prevent such obstructions as thence might arise) they sent an express to Cambridge on purpose with instructions, in the first place to Master Chaderton, to entreat him, that he would not any wise give consent to have any other designed to the place, but him only whom he had already propounded: for that they rested in his choice; and longed much to see and hear him. And in the next place to Master Bradshaw, to request him, that he would make no doubt or delay of coming to them; wherein he would not be slack, if they knew how earnest∣ly they longed to see and enjoy him; and withall to signifie to him, what had been delivered to Master Chaderton from them;* 1.34 that they desired on∣ly the sincere milk of Gods Word, and a Pastor bearing a sincere affection and tender heart to his people: that they had wrought great meanes to ob∣tain him; that if he refused to come to them, he did not know what he did; and if he came, and found them not worthy of him, yet his labour and charge should be fully made good. Thus being importuned, (as by his own Letter to a Friend of July the eighth 1601. appeareth) though by some still pressed for Abington, with hopes suggested of clearing the way there for him; he came up to London, and after advice had with some Friends in the City, from thence went down to Chatham.* 1.35 And though it go for a common buy-word, oft verified, that personal presence abateth much of foregoing reports, and great expectations preconceived are wont seldome to receive full satisfaction; and it be true, that Master Bradshaw was not a man of much out side, nor forward to

put out himself, of a very bashfull and demiss, but not fawning deport∣ment; insomuch that his bodily and personal presence might (as the A∣postles sometime,) seem weak, and not to promise much, with such e∣specially, as look no further then the face: Yet when he came and was heard, and his meek and discreet carriage by the generality observed, by the wiser sort well weighed, he was by joynt consent agreed upon; and a solemn Letter of invitation appointed to be drawn up by Master John Cook, sometime Fellow of Trinity Colledge, then enjoying an Office under Sir Fulk Grinvel Treasurer to the Navy, and afterward Secretary of State to King James, subscribed by the Officers there be∣longing to the Navy, and the most of any note and repute in the place; intimating their election of him by joynt consent to the place, professing a willingness to submit themselves to his Ministry, and promising to afford him all due support and assistance in the same. Upon the receit hereof he fully now resolved without farther delay, to entertain the call, and ac∣cept of the place; and having signified so much unto them, was very lovingly received by them, and quietly for some good space of time (to wit,* 1.36 from July 1601. unto April 1602.) laboured in the Word and Doctrine among them, (together with Master John Philips, who en∣joying the Vicarage did as Pastor of the place therein joyn with him) with good success and much comfort, and to the great contentment and gladsomness of people well affected in those parts. Being thus then setled there,* 1.37 with good hope of continuance, motion was made to him by some of his Friends there (supposing that might be some means of farther engagement of him for to stay with them, of a match with a Widow an houswifely Woman, and one that had lived alwaies in good repute with them. Which not fore-seeing in likelihood, what would afterward ensue, he did not unwillingly so farre forth hearken unto, as to entertain some good liking of the Woman; howsoever in regard of the ensuing change of things, the business was no farther then proceeded in, but by mutual agreement between them laid aside, and delayed, untill God should see good to make way by some means, for their more convenient coming together, and comfortable cohabitation of either with other.

For those Halcyon seasons lasted not long; the common adversary of God and man, who out of his inveterate envy and enmity can in no wise brook the propagation of the Gospel, and dilatation of Christs curtains, began at first more covertly and under hand to contrive some course, whereby to cast a rub in his way, and to procure a restraint of his farther proceeding in a course so successefull and advantagious for the glory of God and the good of his people. For about the time above-mentioned,* 1.38 some neighbour-Ministers, envying the recourse of people to his teaching, began secretly to plot against him, though they would not be seen in it; by suggesting to the Bishop of the Diocess, that he was a man not conformable to the Rites of the Church,* 1.39 nor well-affected to the present Government. This how far forth it prevailed with the Bishop that then sate there, doth not appear; but the business being

smelt out, and by some means discovered, to prevent trouble from him, and settle Master Bradshaw (as they supposed) more surely in the place, it was by divers of his people and friends there deemed most expedient, (though therein peradventure much mistaken) to have some means used to obtain a Confirmation of him therein from the Archbishop of Canterbury, unto whom Rochester was as Suffragan, and no man be∣ing deemed fitter to deal in this business with the Archbishop then that Noble and Religious Knight Sir Francis Hastings, he was by a Letter from Master Bradshaw requested to make some tryal of his interest in, and power with Archbishop Whitgift, to that purpose in his behalf. He upon the receit of Master Bradshaws Letter, the very same day, April 22. 1602. returned him this most kind Christian, and affectionate Answer, My love to your self you know, and shall ever know it in any thing, wherein I can make it known: my duty, your duty, and all our duties to God, his Church, you know better then my self; and my duty to further a good people to a good Minister, a longing people to hear, to a a labouring speaking Minister to teach them, is a bond of duty that I may never forget, and a work of duty that I must ever be ready to perform. Assure your self therefore, my velle shall not be slack; and if my posse can prevail, I shall be glad, I will say no more: but pray to my God to en∣crease his graces in you, to teach profitably; to encrease grace in your peo∣ple, to hear diligently; and to multiply his graces both in speaker and hearer, that they may speak and hear fruitfully, &c. Subscribed, Your true Christian Friend, Francis Hastings. Nor was he more ready to promise, then forward to perform. For within three daies after, to wit, April 25. he wrote to the Archbishop this modest, pious, and zeal∣ous Letter: May it please your grace to pardon me,* 1.40 that I do not perso∣nally attend you, but presume to write:—I make bold to become suitor to your grace, for your favour to a young man, being one that I hold my self interessed in, and to whom I owe my best help, to further him to some place of employment and maintenance, which causeth me to become an humble suitor for him to you, not without a special regard to that people, who so Christianly thirst after knowledge and instruction. The man for whom I sue is one Master Bradshaw, a Master of Arts of Sidney Colledge in Cambridge: The matter I sue for, your graces favour and allowance that he may preach: the place where his labours are desired, is at Chatham. And I most humbly beseech your grace, that however you may find or bear, that he is fearfull to do some things that may be urged on him; yet seeing he is well qualified with gifts, and of honest carriage sitting for his cal∣ling, let not his fearfulness prejudice him with your Lordship, but vouch∣safe him liberty to bestow his talent; and I will undertake to your grace for him, that he shall not offer any disturbance to the peace of our Church either in word or action; but shall painfully bestow himself in that place, to preach Christ crucified, and to arm his people with some measure of know∣ledge, to stand Christianly and couragiously for the truth of Christ, and to resist all Errours broached against that holy Doctrine. And the ra∣ther I make hold to tender this suit to your grace for him, because I find

plenty of practising by Seminaries and Jesuites to corrupt and pervert the peoples hearts both in knowledge and obedience; and that through penu∣ry of preaching in some places it may prove dangerous. I never heard the young man preach my self, but I hear his gifts greatly commended; and I know him to be learned, and painfull also, and carefull in that he taketh in hand. And though I know the tendernesse of his Conscience some waies, yet I dare engage my credit again, (as before) to your grace for him, that he shall walk dutifully, wisely and discreetly in the whole course of his preaching, without all offer of disturbance to the peace of the Church. And so longing to hear that my suit may find my desired success with your grace, I commend mine humble duty to you, and commit your grace, and all your godly proceedings to the protection and directian of the Lord Al∣mighty. Subscribed, Your graces most bounden, and ready to be com∣manded, Francis Hastings. What Answer the Noble Knight had from the Arch-bishop, or what effect this his Letter had with him, we can∣not certainly say; but by what followed it may well be deemed, that of the Archbishop it was not very well relished; who in cases of this kind, was seldome wont to do ought without the advice of Bancroft, a∣nother Bonner,* 1.41 as well in regard of place, as of disposition and pra∣ctice, in eager pusuit of many of Gods faithfull Ministers in those times, so far as the power of his place would permit, in whose stomack the memory of Master Darrels business stuck still, and of Master Bradshaws act about his Books. For not without some animation in likeli∣hood from above, those Master Bradshaws back-friends, who had be∣fore dealt in the dark, did shortly after begin to disclose themselves, and to manifest their malice, which had formerly lain hid, as embers raked up in the ashes.* 1.42 The first of them that openly appeared in the busi∣ness, was one Master Bearblock Minister at Strowd, a Town or Village adjoyning to Rochester, a man of very mean parts for learning, and of a very scandalous life; but one of those whom the Prophet Jeremy speak∣eth of, that had a singular faculty of slicking and smoothing his tongue, to sooth men up in their sinnes. This man (among other) vexed at the concourse of people that repaired from the places adjacent to Ma∣ster Bradshaws teaching, (although Master Bradshaw desirous to com∣ply, so far forth as without offence he might, with him) used to fre∣quent his week-dayes Lecture;* 1.43 stuck not both in private meetings to tax Master Bradshaw for delivering heretical Doctrine, and publikely also in a Sermon on the Lords Day so to charge him therewith, that the Auditory, though he named him not, might well know whom he meant. Now albeit the man himself were of no esteem, and his cen∣sure consequently little to be regarded, yet Mr. Bradshaw deemeed, that a publick charge of that nature, should not be let pass with silence. How∣beit, not willing, nor esteeming it meet to pester the Pulpit with Apolo∣gies, he chose rather to deal with this his Opponent and Traducer by a Letter, which it will not be amiss here to insert.

* 2.1Master Bearblock, I was informed by some of your Christian Auditours at Strowd, that in your forenoons Exercise, you took oc∣casion

in the repetition of your former Sermon, to adde thereto something in bitter terms, against some Heretical Doctrine lately broached in some neighbour-Church; which divers of your most cha∣ritable, and the most of your judicious hearers, conceived to be di∣rected against me. At the first, I had no cause easily to entertain the report, because I was no way guilty to my self, so much as of the least shew of any occasion given unto you, to break out in that man∣ner against me; and did presume you had better learned the Laws of Charity, then in such an open manner to traduce a fellow Minister of the Gospel, before you were better possessed of the cause. Besides, I thought, that reproachfull reports, that have been bruited against your self, should have taught you, if you be innocent, that a Mini∣ster of the Gospel may be much abused and mis-reported of, both for life and doctrine; and therefore that you would not teach by your own practice me or any other thus in open manner, to make the re∣ports of men a sufficient Text to preach against your life, as you have made them to preach against my Doctrine. But since that time I am given to understand, that you have given it out at one Master More∣lands Table, that I was the man; that you then before God and his holy Angels endicted and arraigned; and that of no lesse a crime then gross Heresie; and that some of your Congregation were pur∣posed to proceed in Law against me for it. You know there was a Law, (and it were well if it were now in force, to bridle distempered tongues) that if one were accused of a crime, which could not be proved, the Accuser should suffer the punishment due to that crime; and then Master Bearblock, if heresie deserve a punishment, if you should but accuse me of that, which methinks you have already con∣demned me of, your back should bear the punishment of two Here∣sies. For first, it is most untrue that I have taught any such Do∣ctrine; and secondly, if you could not prove that Doctrine, as I know you cannot, this you here so tax to be heresie, your Do∣ctrine that calleth it heresie, deserves no less lege Talionis, then he∣resie; which I speak not so much in regard of your weakness, as in grace of the strength of the cause; wherein though with the dim eye of mine own judgment I could see nothing, yet I have cause to be confident, in regard of their judgment whose shadows it would be∣come you and me to give room unto, yea, and to run away from. And I am verily perswaded, that though some of your spirit may be found to judge it an Errour to hold, That a bare Reading Minister, is not a lawfull Minister before God; yet that none that deserves the name of a man of judgment, will push with such horns against it, as you do, that it is an heresie, and that a gross and abominable one. I would I might be worthy to know, upon your better consideration of the point, whether that heart of yours, that set your tongue on fire so against this poor Heresie, would serve to set fire to the pretended Heretick. But blessed be God, that Supream Authority keepeth the fire-brands from the hands of such furies; else there were some

cause to fear, lest the Saints of God (I give them no other title, then your own conscience gives them, nay then your own mouth in publick hath given them) should find your hands as hot, as they now feel your tongue; for methinks in your Divinity, to make but a questi∣on of any thing in Religion established by Law, is no less then Trea∣son and Heresie. There must be some Mystery in it, that every poor man must not presume to look into; that one that is so full of chari∣ty towards Adulterers, Drunkards, Blasphemers and other sinners that swarm in the Church, should be so fiery against these new He∣reticks of your own making. What? Are they of all other past hope of repentance? Or do not the mercies of God, wherewith your mouth is so oft sugred, of all other, belong to them? My self on the week-day am one of your Auditours, and I hope, none of the worst-minded, and then you seem (as oft as ever I heard you) as if your soul did overflow with Charity towards us all. You cannot be ig∣norant of the words that so often were in your lips; That none that hear you, but they are Gods faithfull Children; That though they be foul, grievous sinners, yet they are repentant, and Gods mercy belongs unto them; That no man is without sinne, but the best and holiest are unclean. This hath been your tenor for this half year; the Sermon is yet to come, that ever with the least zeal you spake a∣gainst lewdness of life: And yet now how full of zeal are you against errours in Doctrine, of this sort especially? whereas considering the slanders that run of you, (for I call them so, as I desire for the Go∣spels sake they may prove) you could take no better course, then to be most zealous in Doctrine against those sins, that fame hath gone about to brand you withall; and to condemn such with your own mouth to hell, rather then to set open Heaven gates so wide unto them, as you use to do; as though your self were out of hope of Heaven, except the lewdest of your Congregation go to Heaven. I may be bold being the injured party, and knowing you better then you me, to take this leave to tell you thus much of your self, who have so freely given leave to your self, to speak to others worse things of me; that if the Lords judgments should pursue me so fast, that mine inward corruptions should break out into notorious crimes, and yet should dare for all that to exercise an holy Ministry; that then of all methods of teaching that ever I heard, I would surely follow yours. To keep you from advantage, I acknowledge the Doctrine that you have taught in my hearing to be very sound and true: But this is it that I affirm, and you may keep it to your self if it please you, that in dealing against sinne, in all the Sermons I have ever heard you, you have said no more in substance, then what you shall have alwaies running in the wickedest mouthes; That All men are sinners; That the godliest do fall seven times a day; That men must not despair of Gods mercy; That they are sorry for it, when they have done; That it is their corruption of nature, &c. which are all very excellent and comfortable Doctrines to a broken heart, but very poyson to an impe∣nitent;

so that if a Minister should preach them to the stews, he should have as many applauses and Amens there to them, as any where else. If therefore a foul life be as abominable in the eyes of God and man, as false Doctrine; if this zeal of yours against false Doctrine were of God, you would blow as strong a blast against the other, as you do against it, and a stronger too, considering that the other having bor∣rowed the wings of fame, is flying continually in your own face: This, if you could have let me alone, would never have bitten you. But to draw to an end, if my bare deniall, and the voices of them, that with best understanding heard me, and are best able to repeat the heads of that Sermon, can perswade you, that there was no such Doctrine then delivered, I hope you will satisfie that Congregation, whose ears you have abused with that report; and especially the Gentleman, to whom you related the particulars. If you cannot be moved to this; yet be contented, sith you say the Law must proceed upon me, to stay the proceeding of your tongue against me, till you have tried me guilty or not. If you tannot yield to this, but have a purpose to pursue the matter, let Religion over-rule you thus far, to deal with me in the points by private writing. But if you have resolved to go on in this in∣direct course, openly thus to injure me; do it I pray you, in your weekly exercise, that I may not trust to the report of others, but may be a witnesse to my self of mine own abuses; and then I shall know the better how to satisfie you. It is the humour of most of your stamp, under pretence of a zeal to her Majesties proceedings in mat∣ters of Religion, to take your liberty of speech against some, that are perswaded some things might and should be reformed, if the State had leasure to look into them: and you know it full well, that such as you are, shall find ears enough to receive your accusations against such; else upon equall ground you would not be so confident, thus hand over head to condem as good Subjects (without any disgrace) as your self, of no less then Heresie and Treason. As for my self, I thank God, I have had that care, both of mine outward conversation and Doctrine, that none of any civility, I trust, shall find a face to re∣proach me for the one, nor any of any judgment in Religion, will accuse me of the other. And as for those Reports, that are given out against me, out of yours and others mouthes; your shame shall send them home again, and I will wear them about my neck as Chains and Garlands. In particular, for your self, (though I desire the love, acquaintance, and favour of any well-gifted Minister) it will be no great disgrace to me, to sit at home without your countenance, ex∣cept your self were in greater countenance with them that truly fear the Lord. Thus leaving you at this time to a better spirit, then that which set you so greedily on work against me, I commit you to the grace, mercy, and pardon of God; and my self to his wise direction, hereafter to take heed, how I give mouthes, so readily open to reproach my Ministry, any just and direct occasion.

Chat∣ham the last of April 1602.

Your Fellow-labourer and Minister in

the Lords work, desirous of peace, and if it were possible, of love also, William Bradshaw.

This Letter, though somewhat large, it seemed not amisse at full to relate; because it representeth to the life, both the Character of many such Teachers, as were forwardest to oppose Gods faithfull Messengers in those times, and the manner of their teaching, which the most of our Antinomian party that give out themselves as the only Gospel-Preachers,* 2.2 come so near unto now adaies; and the most unequall and unchristian courses also, that were by such then commonly practised, to work them into disgrace with the people, and to procure trouble to them from the State. But the malice of the man stayed not here; which of it self for ought he was able to do, was not much to be regarded. For being netled by this Letter, upon consultation had with some of his complices, a Knight of note in that County, a man of some parts of learning and wit, but of loose life, utterly averse from, and adverse to the profession and practice of piety, was by them procured, to come down from Rochester,* 2.3 where he then was, to Chatham on a Lords day, to hear Master Bradshaw, and that for no other end, but to pick somewhat, (if it might be) out of his teaching, for which, upon his information against him, (a practice most unworthy a man or his rank) his mouth might be stopped, or he inhibited at least from farther imployment in that place. And according indeed to their wicked design and ungodly desire the plot proceeded. For, whereas Master Bradshaw being then entred upon the handling of the story of Christs Temptations (related by two Evangelists; on which his Sermons, much desired by many that heard part of them, and though not fully perfect∣ed by him, yet by some small supplies being made up, may peradven∣ture hereafter see light) had observed, that this was the main scope of Satan in his first encounter, to bear our Saviour in hand, that howsoe∣ver he had been put in some hope by a voice, as from Heaven, that he was the beloved Sonne of God; yet God by his present neglect of him, and leaving him in such difficulties, destitute of all necessaries, did thereby manifest that he did not respect, or regard him at all; hereupon he took occasion to admonish all true Christians, to arm themselves diligently against this temptation, and to strengthen their Faith in the assurance of Gods favour towards them, care of them, and undoubted truth of his Promises made to them; using this as an Argument to in∣cite them unto the greater care in this kind; for that (said he) If this temptation do once fasten upon us, that we shall come by Satans sleights to be perswaded, that there is no such matter, that God hath no such re∣spect or regard unto us; it cannot but cool our love unto God. Which words of his,* 2.4 very wholesome and good, the Knight perverting and misreporting, enformed underhand against him, that he should deliver, That a man was not bound to love God, unlesse he were sure that God loved him.* 2.5 Hereupon Master Bradshaw was shortly after, by a short note un∣der Doctor Buckeridges hand bearing date May twenty six 1602. and directed unto him at Chatham, made acquainted, that it was the plea∣sure

of his Lords Grace of Canterbury, and his Lord of London (the main prosecutor of the business against him) that he should the next day by nine of the clock appear personally before them at Shorn,* 2.6 a Town situ∣ate between Rochester and Gravesend: whither accordingly he repaired, and there appearing, after some questions moved, and answers there∣unto returned, the Bishop of London began to charge him with teach∣ing of false and ungodly Doctrine, such as had been suggested by the Knight before-mentioned; whereunto when he answered Negative∣ly, relating withall truly and sincerely, what he had delivered, and of∣fering to produce not a few of good credit, who could and would testifie what then he taught, that would not be admitted; London affirming, that what had been enformed, was averred by such, as were able to conceive, being learned; and to understand aright what it was that he delivered, and received it not by report from others, but had been ear-witnesses of it themselves. However at last to strike all dead sure,* 2.7 subscription was tendered to him; whereat they knew he would stick: which because he professed that he could not condescend unto, they inhibited him to preach any more at Chatham, and having bound him to appear, when he should be farther called upon, for the present so dis∣missed him. The next Lords day was one suborned,* 2.8 in the habit of a traveller, to repair early in the morning to Master Bradshaws lodging at Chatham, who asking to speak with him, pretended that he came on purpose out of his way to hear him, and demanded of him whether he preached that day or no? whereunto he answering, that he did not,* 2.9 being by authority inhibited, he made shew of much sorrow, as being frustrated of his expectation, but he was descried to be no other then a Spie, sent to found Master Bradshaw what he intended to do; so greedy were they to have farther ensnared him, if by any meanes they might. The same day Master Bearblock was observed at Strowd, as tri∣umphing after a Victory atchieved against some great adversary, to have appointed to be sung before his fore-noon-Sermon, the former part of the 27. Psalm. Those of Chatham much affected with the inhibition of their faithfull Teacher, and grieved in their souls for the restraint of that precious food, which they had formerly received from him, were not backward to use what means they might for the taking off of the inhibition, and removal of the restraint. To this purpose a Supplica∣tion was framed in the Name of the Parishoners of Chatham unto the Bishop of Rochester their immediate Diocesan, in these words; Right Reverend Father, and our very good Lord,* 2.10 If we were not by manifold triall and long experience assured of the love that you bear, and the care that you have over that flock, which the Lord hath committed unto your charge, we could not with so good hope and comfort, as now we do, become Petitioners unto your Lordship in the behalf of our too much wronged Preacher Master Bradshaw; Unto whom, in sincrity of a good conscience we do voluntarily yeeld this testimony, that he is a man so farre in every respect from desert of those misreports, wherewith his causelesse adversa∣ries have endeavoured to incense your good Lordship against him, as his

accusers have been from the remembrance of that duty, which they ought to bear to your Lordship, whom they have abused with sinister and unjust informations; his Doctrine alwaies holy, wholesome, true, and learned, utterly void of faction and contention; his life so throughly garnished with unblemished vertues and graces, as malice it self cannot reprove, or suspect him; directing all his labours only to the beating down of sin and wick∣ednesse, the comfort of the faithfull, and the instruction of the ignorant, without intermedling at any time, with the needlesse and conceited contro∣versies of this factious age. May it therefore please your good Lord∣ship with favour (according to your wonted goodnesse) so to tender this your little poor flock of Chatham, as to restore unto us our vertuous and faithfull Teacher; lest otherwise we be as sheep without a Shepherd. Which being obtained, we your humble Suppliants will account it so great a bles∣sing of God from the hands of your Reverend Fatherhood, as that we shall hold our selves bound faithfully to pray unto the Almighty, for your good Lordships endless prosperity. This their Petition after their own frame conceived, is the rather here inserted, to shew their reverend estima∣tion of Master Bradshaw, and their earnest desire to have retained him still with them. But the business was in higher hands. London was the man that must do it, if ought were done. With whom Master Chaderton going up to London upon occasion of some Colledge-affairs, promised to deal in Master Bradshaws behalf; and in likelihood did: but (as appeared) without success.

Thus was this blessed Servant of God tossed to and fro, and could not be suffered to abide long in any place; though a man of peaceable carriage, a most meek and humble spirit, and a kinde and loving dispo∣sition.* 2.11 But Gods pious providence over his, and gracious provision for them, never faileth. He is oft working for them, when they least see it, and where or whence they least look for it. He was then preparing a re∣tiring and resting place for him, when he seemed to be now utterly out of hope of any.* 2.12 For being now driven from Chatham, he came up to London, whence after some short stay with a Friend, having at present no employment, he thought good to look down into Leicestershire to visit his Friends there. And he indeed intended the journey only as a visit: howsoever the Lord in his hidden disposal, unknown unto him, had a farther aim in it then he was then aware of, as by the event appear∣ed, and he afterward took speciall notice of, and did thankfully acknow∣ledge. For upon his coming down into those parts, by the good hand of God, using that his worthy servant of blessed memony, Master Ar∣thur Hildersham (as formerly sometime, so now again) as an instru∣ment therein, he was brought into some notice with, and commended unto one Master Alexander Redich, a religious Gentleman, then resi∣ding at Newhall, an house of note, situate neer to Burton upon Trent, in the confines of Darbyshire,* 2.13 Leicestershire, and Staffordshire. He not only received him into his house, but obtained also for him from the then Bishop of Coventry and Litchfield, being a moderate man, a Licence to preach in any part of his Diocess: which favour and liberty, being

by a Present of Venison at first procured, and afterward maintained by a yearly gratuity of a brace of Bucks out of the Gentlemans Park, Master Bradshaw without any interruption enjoyed in those parts during that Bishops life, yea, and after too, without any trouble (a light and short storm only excepted, and that soon again laid, the year before his decease, (whereof somewhat hereafter) unto the time of his release∣ment. For his entertainment there,* 2.14 though the means allowed him were very small, in regard that the Gentlemans estate was much encom∣bred, and he by reason thereof disabled to do what he otherwise desired; the Lady Ferrers his Wives Mother yet surviving, who had an estate for life in that part of the Land, which was to come to his Wife, where∣on he then resided; nor in regard of Religion (for a strong and zealous Papist she was) so well-affected towards them, being forward another way; and some other part of it, by concealment of some Evidences being wrongfully detained from him, as in process of time upon disco∣very thereof did evidently appear.* 2.15 Yet the small pittance that was al∣lowed him, together with their kind carriage toward him, and the lo∣ving affection to him that he found generally in the Family, did give him very good content. For in a Letter to an inward Friend he pro∣fesseth, that he found both the Gentleman, and his Wife, very tender-hearted and sincerely Religious so kind unto him,* 2.16 as his heart could not desire more; and that in gifts they were otherwise beneficial unto him; and the truth is, (saith he, for you have his own words) it is impossible to find more love in a place, then I do find more and more both of great and small in the House: so that the Lord, I see, hath not clean forsaken me. And in another to the same party; Never let your mind be troubled about the smallnesse of my Maintenance, it is more then he from whom it cometh can well spare yet;* 2.17 as much as my labours upon them deserve; and more then many of my betters have. To adde hereun∣to some farther matter of encouragement and contentment, he withall signifieth, that the Lord had blest him there with a most kind neighbour, (abiding in a house not far from thence with the Lord Paget) a young man of Oxford, and a Londoner by birth, one Master Hassal, a man of very rare parts for all kind of learning, of most prompt and ready speech, and of a very courteous and affable disposition. With him he entertained familiarity, and maintained a good correspondence, while they abode so neer together. For he was not nice to imbrace acquaintance with any moderate man, of endowments especially; and very forward to take notice of the good parts of others, and to set them out as occasion was offered, to the utmost: so far was he from that malevolent humour so rife with too many in these times, of extenuating or blurring the en∣dowments and abilities of others; such especially as do not in every par∣ticular conceit, though but groundlessely oft fancied, comply with themselves; as also together with his ingenuous composure of spirit, his pious disposition may herein be observed, in taking notice of, and acknow∣ledging a passage of divine providence in every accommodation, that might any way, or in any measure, improve the comfort of his present condition.

But that the great moderation of mind in one of such worth as was this Servant of Christ, may the better appear, we shall compare the means of maintenance afforded him, and his employments, whereof he professed before, not to deserve so much as so small a pirtance a∣mounted unto the one with the other. That the allowance was very small, may very justly be deemed, when his friends were so much trou∣bled and grieved, to think that one of his endowments should be dri∣ven to accept so low and slender conditions: and the truth is, as by his own relation appears, the allowance at first agreed upon, was but ten pounds by the year, his diet, fire, candle, and all kind of attendance, as himself draws it out at length to make the most of it. That which is here specified, not in any wise to asperse the Gentleman, whose present condition would not then well afford better termes; and yet shew∣ed his good will by free addition to what he stood engaged for, even in his first year of abode with him; and afterward also, as charge grew upon Master Bradshaw: though means were not much amended with him, yet strained himself unto a farther enlargement, as hereafter shall be shewed; but to manifest the excceeding, and almost unparallel'd modesty of the man, esteeming his labours beneath so poor an allow∣ance. For his employments that himself so much undervalued, what were they? Besides his private exercises at set times performed in the Family; he preached at first constantly twice every Lords day in a Chappel of some capacity,* 2.18 belonging to the Gentlemans House, and situate within the Park wherein the House stood; and afterward, when the resort from other parts more remote, grew so great, that the place could not well contain them; (that the more might enjoy the fruit of his Ministry, and with the more ease to them, though the less to him and the Houshold) he was easily induced, the Governours of the Fa∣mily, out of their religious disposition, well approving thereof, and condescending thereunto, to bestow his labours, as he had before done in the Chappel, in a more publick place, at a Parish-Church (where a Reading Vicar only was) at a Village called Stapenhill or Stapenhall, about a mile distant from the place of his abode. And this he did constantly for above twelve years at least, at such times as the Gentleman abode with his Family at Newhall, which was the principal place of his setled abode: receiving for such his pains among them, no consideration at all from the people of the place;* 2.19 (the most of them deeming him more beholden to them, for coming and staying to hear him, then themselves to him for coming to preach to them; and some of them complaining, that they had lost many a good Pistle and Go∣spel for his Preachings;) save that on the Lords day for his better ease and refreshment, between his forenoon and afternoons employment, he was usually entertained at the House of one Master Alexander Buck∣ley, who had sometime belonged as a Bayliff or Steward to Master Re∣diches Family, and whose Wife Mistress Anne Buckley, a very sweet na∣tured, humble and godly woman, was both a Mary and Martha to him, no lesse diligent to attend his teaching with the one, then sedu∣lous

to make fitting provision for him with the other; and that some of the better affected sort among those that heard him, would now and then gratifie him with some kind of Countrey-courtesies, when he kept house by himself.

Having thus spent above a twelvemoneth or more with Master Re∣dich, his thoughts began to be more solicitously renewed concerning that businesse of marriage propounded to him at Chatham, and so farre forth, as hath been formerly shewn, embraced then by him; which in regard also of some other emergent occasions had hung hitherto in suspence. This to proceed in and consummate he much desired, not so much in regard of himself, as in regard of the other party, who had been held in expectation thereof so long already, and might deem it some wrong, if it should be still so delayed. But how this might con∣sist with his continuance in Master Rediches Family he was not able well to conceive; and how very loath he was to part with a Family, where he had found so much love. Howsoever he resolved to break the mat∣ter unto them, before he would proceed any farther therein, that if no fit means of compliance there could be contrived, he might with their good leave look out for some other place of employment, and they have some convenient space of time for the fitting and furnishing of themselves with some other to succeed with them in his room. Up∣on relation hereof, according to such his resolution, (having taken a fit time for it) made unto them, enforming them truly and freely in all circumstances, how the case stood with him, and how he stood affected towards them, it was strange to see (it is in his own words related) how great affection they shewed to bear unto him, expressed even with teares; that on no condition he must depart from them; such course should be taken, as that, when he should in that kind change his condition, he might still conveniently and comfortably abide with them. Whereunto he subjoyn∣eth; And this indeed is the first hour of my solid comfort, that the Lord hath vouchsafed me a standing place, where I may settle my self. And in∣deed God was pleased to work in some particulars somewhat strange∣ly and unexpectedly, beyond what he was then able to foresee or fore∣cast, toward the farther acomplishment of his desire in this kind; as hereafter shall be shewed.

Mean while Master Redich being by occasion of businesses drawn up to London, and having taken some lodgings for himself and his retinue neer unto Christ Church, with purpose to make stay some good space of time in the City, Master Bradshaw abiding there with him, was re∣quested to preach sometime at Christ Church: which accordingly he did, and that with such approbation and good liking of the well-affect∣ed in the Parish, that the afternoons Lecture there becoming vacant, albeit Doctor Milward a man of some note in those times stood for it, yet by the greater number of votes, in a Vestry purposely for that end assembled, Master Bradshaw was chosen to be their Lecturer;* 2.20 though not having sought it himself, but having been without his privity pro∣pounded by some such of them as had been much taken with his for∣mer

Sermons. But the will of God (it seems) was, that he should still adhere to that Family, which he was fallen into, and where he had found so much affection; that which to his dying day also he did. For though by some of those, who earnestly desired him, great means were made to the Bishop,* 2.21 yet would he in no wise condescend to give way thereunto. Yea, such was his malignity against Master Bradshaw, that having cited him, but by a wrong forename, to appear before him, to answer for preaching in his Diocesse without his Licence; (in which re∣gard also the Church-wardens were checked and threatned that suf∣fered it) upon his non-appearance he proceeded so far, as to send out an Excommunication against him; which he for the mistake before-mentioned, little regarded; only by advice, for some time kept out of the way, untill the Bishops translation, or evection rather, unto the lofty pitch of his Primacy, which shortly after did ensue.

During his stay in these parts, looking down to Chatham, he there consummated that businesse, which hitherto had been delayed. And in regard that Master Redich with his Wife and retinue were by reason of his urgent affairs in divers kinds likely to continue for a longer space of time in the City then at first was expected;* 2.22 Master Bradshaw ha∣ving brought up his Wife with him from Chatham, did for a while board her with a sister of hers, before married and seated in the City, and af∣terward took part of a tenement for himself and her, who being a wo∣man that affected employment, for their better support, taught there a few Scholers. Much about this time, by occasion of that formall conference acted and transacted at Hampton-Court, wherein some of our chief Prelates endeavoured to possesse the Kings Majesty with a pre∣judice against those that made suit for a Reformation of things amisse in Church-affairs, (his disaffection to whom he had himself also in some writing of his partly discovered already) and to perswade him, that for Ecclesiastical affairs all things were so well setled, that no Reformation needed,* 2.23 but some strict injunction only of a precise conformity unto, and constant observation of things already established; which began thereupon in many places with much vigor to be pressed; It came to passe that many Books came abroad, being privately printed, wherein divers godly Ministers, who were of a contrary judgment, declared their grievances, laid down their exceptions, set forth their grounds of dissent, and returned answer to the Arguments produced and urged a∣gainst them to induce them to Conformity. For Books of this nature search was made in the City; for one, more especially among the rest, that had (it seems) given our great Clergy-Masters most offence, and Master Bradshaw being known to abide then in the City, a man in much suspition with them, two Pursuivants, accompanied with Master Norton the Kings Printer, were sent with Commission to search his house both for it and him. Whither accordingly repairing, but not finding him at home, they enforced his Wife to open his Closet or Study, the Chests, Trunks, Boxes and Presses, to make search for such Books, but found nothing. For the truth is, (and there was a good Providence of God

in it (after that Master Bradshaw was that morning gone out, not above half an hour before that this business fell out,* 2.24 his Wife looking into his Study, and seeing some of those Books there, to prevent future danger, (which yet she then little deemed or dreamed to be so near at hand as it proved to be afterward) had taken them out from thence, and cast them into a hole between two Chimneys, where being covered over with old besomes, they remained undiscovered. But howsoever they could meet with nothing of that which they looked for, yet on his Wife they seized, who would rather have had him;* 2.25 her they took and led unto Doctors Commons, where having presented her before Doctor Stanhop, Doctor White, and a third party, whom she knew not, a number sufficient to make up a compleat High Commission Court; they examined her, yet without oath: first, Where her Husband was? where∣unto she answered, she knew not; then, What meanes of Maintenance she had, and from whom? to which she made answer, that she gat her living by her work, and teaching of a few young Children; after that, What Children she had? she told them, none yet; but one she hoped in her belly, being then great with Child: which was her first-born Sonne, now a Minister of the Gospel, afterward born in that House they then dwelt in, in Thred-needle-street, and baptized in the Church near thereto adjoyning, where the Minister of the place, somewhat thick of hearing, by a mistake, instead of Jonathan, naming him John, which name therefore he bare afterward, and doth to this day. But af∣ter divers such questions to little purpose propounded and answered, in conclusion they told her, that they knew well enough that the Book they then searched for▪ was none of her Husbands making, though he might have a hand in the venting of it; and withall, that if they had been dis∣posed, they could have had him, for all his keeping in a Lancashire Gentlemans house. So they termed Master Redich,* 2.26 because his own Lands of Inheritance lay in those parts. Thus hauing parlied with her, they dismissed her, not suffering those greedy Harpyes the Pur∣suivants, who were eager upon her for their fees, to exact ought from her; only binding her at a daies warning to appear again before them.

Thus through Gods goodness and watchfull eye over his Servant, too regardlesse in some sort of his own safety, having escaped the snare that was set for him, he returned after some space of time, Master Re∣diches main businesses being now dispatched, together with him and his, unto their former place of abode at Newhall, taking his Wife and little one together also along with him. Being there arrived, the Gentleman both enlarged his maintenance,* 2.27 and assigned him and his Wife certain Chambers in his own House conveniently furnished▪ as also herbage in the Park for a certain number of Kine, and of Swine, and some Poultry, together with a convenient room for a Dary, wherein she might exercise her huswifery; which she very well could do, and accordingly did. Now while they thus lived together in Master Rediches House, Master Bradshaw went on cheerfully in his wonted

course, both of private exercises for the instruction of the Family, and of publick employment on the Lords day for the benefit of others also abroad. But the old Lady Ferrers, Mistresse Rediches Mother, a wo∣man of a great spirit, and a resolute Papist, though not an absolute pro∣fessed Recusant, could by no means brook Master Bradshaw, and the lesse now because married, and for that he had brought his Wife also to live with him in House with them: yea she had conceived such an ex∣tream hatred against him, professing to hate him above any man in the world; that she had made a vow, that she would never set her feet in the house where he was; and it was therefore feared, not without some just ground of suspition, that the Family might from her fare the worse for him. But the hearts of all men, and women also, are in Gods hand, and he can wind and turn them which way he will: and when a mans waies do please the Lord, he can, if he see it good, yea, doth oft, when he seeth it will be for the good of his, make of his utter foes, his Friends. And even so fell it out here. For the Lady notwithstanding this her extream disaffection, so deeply rooted, and so vehemently expressed, yet in pro∣cesse of time being enduced by some that were in credit and repute with her, to visit her Son-in-law and Daughter, and make stay for some time (which they much desired) in house with them; and being withall in∣formed and assured by them of Master Bradshaws mild and moderate demeanure, and his meek, kind, and lowly carriage, she was over∣wrought by them, contrary to that her former unnaturall and irreligious engagement, to repair thither, and take up her lodging with them: where it pleased God withall, not long after her accesse thither, (being now an eye-witnesse her self of what she had formerly heard by report of him from others) so to alter that her former disaffection to Master Bradshaw, and to cast it into a clean contrary mould, that all that beheld and observed her carriage on all occasions towards him,* 2.28 wondered ex∣ceedingly at it, to see so strange an alteration, and such not unexpected only, but unusuall carriages in her. For, albeit she were otherwise, a Gentlewoman, as of very proper and personable presence, and in that regard much admired by the Scottish Queen that suffered here, whom she also much affected, so of her self no lesse forward to take and keep state; yet she used Master Bradshaw with very much courtesie and com∣plement, at table drinking to him, and carving for him; resorting twice a day constantly to prayer with him and the Family, and speaking reverently of him; yea whereas formerly she could not be induced to hear any of our Ministers preach; howsoever for fashion sake, and to escape penalty of Law, she might sometime repair to hear the Liturgy read; yet was she content to hear Master Bradshaw, and commended his Sermons. Which the better to work upon her, he wisely framed to such subjects as he deemed would best serve,* 2.29 to take off such false imputations, as are wont by the adverse party to be cast upon our Pro∣fession and Preaching, as if we were utter enemies to mortification and good works. For first out of Matth. 5.16. he took occasion to speak of the necessity and nature of good works; the ground from whence they spring,

and the end that must be aimed at in them; and after that out of Psal. 51. of repentance and mortification, with both which discourses she seemed to be very much affected. What farther work these things had upon her after her departure thence, we are not able to say; but certain it is, that while she abode there, she seemed to be much better disposed, not towards Master Bradshaw only; but (contrary to what was formerly feared, and strongly suspected) toward her Son-in-law and Daughter also. For before she went thence, she sealed them a Lease for three years, of the Land they held from her, with abatement of an Hun∣dred pounds by the year, of the rent formerly paid, and a remission of thirty pounds by the year besides, otherwise accruing to her, (God might blesse the House for his Josephs sake) and her continued good opinion of, and affection to Master Bradshaw she farther manifested, by her free consent, to have an House built for him and his Wife to live in, on a parcell of land that she had interest in; which was accordingly with as much speed as might be, not long after effected. Then which (saith he, so modest and moderate were his affections for the things of this life) I desire no more worldly things, then that I may be setled in that little House, and rest there in quiet, which these times give small hope of.

This he conceived the lesse hope of, because the Bishop under whom he had hitherto lived quietly, about this time, deemed not like long to continue; and indeed shortly after deceasing, it was given out, that Bishop Neal, translated from Rochester, was to succeed (that which he much dreading, in divers of his Letters had oft up, Lord keep us from Rochester) and so he did indeed, though not immediately; yet not long after. For Doctor Abbots Dean of Winchester, who came in between them, sate not long there, but before many moneths ex∣pired, stept from Litchfield to London. But Bishop Neal was the man, whom all the pious, as well private men as Ministers, in these parts mis-doubted would do the most mischief.* 2.30 And indeed presently upon his entrrnce, that boisterous Prelate began in so fierce and furious a sort to bestir himself, and kept such a busseling and blustering among them, that (howsoever one that then abode thereabout, writing somewhat freely of him, saith, The more he shufflled in his Lions skin, the more he made his Asses ears to appear, and exposed himself to derision and contempt even with the meanest) yet it was by the most feared, that unlesse God in much mercy should put a ring into his Nose, he would in likelihood root up all effectual means of piety, within the precincts of his power. And the rather had Master Bradshaw cause to expect little favour, all rigour rather that might be, from him; in regard of some neighbour∣ing loiterers, that should have been labourers, as he was, in the Lords work; who not enduring to see others affected and followed, for doing that, which they should have done, but did not themselves, were there∣fore bitter enemies to him, and were in great grace with the Bishop. Besides that, it was reported, that the Bishop was minded to reside some space of time at Drakelow, a place not far distant from Newhall;

whose neighbourhood was like to prove no more beneficial to Master Bradshaw,* 2.31 then the brass pots company in the Fable to the earthen pitcher. But, as dangers oft befall us, where we least mis-doubt or suspect ought, much lesse expect any; so (the Lord on that wise dispo∣sing things for the safety of his servants, and the enuring of them to a constant dependance on his providence) it falleth out sometime on the other side, that we prove least assailed or annoyed from thence, whence we have been most affrighted with the greatest expectation of much damage, or sore distresse. So it fell out with Master Bradshaw here. For, how∣soever in one of his Letters he manifesteth his fears to that purpose, that in regard of the considerations before-mentioned, he much doubted that Zone would be too hot for him, yet in another afterward he signifieth that he had not as yet heard ought from him, or of any complaints that had been made to him against him. Nor indeed doth it appear that he was at any time after molested, or disturbed in the exercise of his Ministry by ei∣ther of them, by what means soever the Lord was pleased so either to represse or divert, as well the malice of the one, as the might of the other, that neither of them should fasten to any purpose upon him, untill the year before he died.

About this time Master Redich bestowed his eldest Daughter Mistress Grace Redich in marriage with Sir Robert Darcie, Son and Heir to Sir Edward Darcie a Kentish Knight, a very religious Gentleman, in great favour and repute with that Illustrious Prince Henry, of rare parts, and great hopes, of whom this land was not worthy, and one that highly esteemed Master Bradshaw, as he justly deserved. He making his abode most at Newhall untill his Fathers decease, (where his Lady a very gracious Gentlewoman according to her name, not inferiour to her Hus∣band, either in piety, or in sincerity of affection to Master Bradshaw, was the second time delivered of twins, and became Mother of four Children, within compasse of a year) Master Bradshaw by his company there received much comfort and encouragement in the work of his Ministry, and furtherance also in his Studies. For Sir Robert being a Scholar and studious, had a Library furnishnd with many of the best Writers, as well in Divinity, as in other kindes of literature, whereof Master Bradshaw had the free use; and he brought also upon his motion divers other on purpose, that might be usefull for him. And this his af∣fectionate and courteous carriage to Master Bradshaw, toward whom he ever demeaned himself with much reverence and due respect, was con∣tinued by him untill his decease, which did not many weeks precede Master Bradshaws.

In the year 1613. it pleased God to take from him that worthy Gentleman Master Redich his Patron, who in a very holy and Christian manner at Newhall departed this life. His frequent removals from Newhall to Longford, another house that had befallen him in those parts not long before his decease, was occasion of much distraction to Master Bradshaw, now setled with his Family at Stanton Ward near to Newhall; but his decease much more: Concerning which he thus writes, among

other things in a Letter to a Friend;* 2.32 Master Rediches decease hath made an heavy alteration in this Family; and for mine own estate, Mistress Re∣dich giving over house, as she intendeth to do, and to live somewhere here∣about, as privately as she may, for the better discharging of her Husbands debts, it will be the lesse comfortable, and more chargeable to me then it hath been. But I am willing for her good to undergo any thing. Master Redich on his death-bed was willing to have assured me of something du∣ring my life. But the force of his disease did so grow upon him that he could do nothing. If God lend Mistress Redish life, till the debts be dis∣charged, or a sure course taken for them, I hope she will, if it lie in her power: for she hath promised so to do; and I assure me, she will do her utter most to effect it. But whatsoever fall out, I trust I shall be content, ha∣ving been hitherto at the Lords finding; who hath shewed himself at all times a loving Father to me his unworthy Child; and our time here, though it be full of wants, is but short. Thus it pleased the Lord to inure this his Servant to a dependance from day to day for provisions upon his Providence; and as a grave man of God sometime said, Whereas many other have, and eat their bread stale; to receive his bread,* 2.33 and eat it daily new from his hand; that which he also, you see, was very well content to do. Mean while the good Gentlewomans incumbred and unsetled estate she was left in, being to take course for the payment of her Hus∣bands debts, and to compound for the Wardship of her younger Daughter, who was afterward matched to one of the Lord Chief Justice Cooks Sons, could not but exceedingly distract Master Bradshaw, as well as her self; and drew him up to London together with her, oftner then he had any mind of himself, or desire thereunto. But from that Fa∣mily the main means of his maintenance accrued; and to it therefore he constantly addicted himself, as in duty he deemed himself obliged to do. At Stanton Ward, not far from Newhall, as was before intimated, his Family still abode in the little house there built for him: Where, while Mistresse Redich abode in those parts, or when he had any liberty to get down from these parts, while she was longer then usually de∣tained in or about the City; he went on constantly in his wonted course, teaching freely at Stapenhill every Lords day, as formerly he had done. Only in the year 1617. coming down from London, (upon what occasi∣on, or through whose instigation, uncertain) he was welcomed home by the Bishops Chancellour a corrupt man,* 2.34 with an inhibition to preach there, till he heard further from him. But by the mediation of a couple of good Angels, the one from himself, (so willing and forward was he to redeem his liberty, for the benefit of others,* 2.35 without advantage to himself) and the other from a Friend, the Chancellour was soon pacified, and the restraint removed; whereby it appeared that the Prohibition proceeded principally from his own avarice, rather then from mis-information from any thereabout, or injunction from above.

Amidst this his restlesse and distracted condition, and constant pur∣suit of his religious employments, the Lord was preparing a place of

setled rest for him, and a royall reward in the highest Heavens, for his faithfull service here upon earth, drawing on apace now to its utmost period. For in the year 1618. being come up from Stanton, to attend Mistress Redich, while he lodged with her at Chelsey, not far from the City,* 2.36 visiting a Friend at Rederith, whose house he usually frequented when he was in these parts, he complained of some malady, that by his present distemper he mis-doubted might be growing upon him, and though by his friend being earnestly urged, to take some speedy course, by the Physicians advice, for preventing the farther growth of it; yet being too regardlesse of himself, while he neglected so to do, he was suddainly surprized with a violent, and (as the Physician affirms) ma∣lignant Fever, which so fiercely set upon him, that in its very first ap∣parent encounter it cast him down upon his couch. And notwithstand∣ing all the means used, that either were desired, or could be procured; no care being omitted, or cost spared, by that worthy Gentlewoman, who most tenderly and intirely affected him, for advice of Physician, who constantly repaired to him, assistance of Apothecary, according to direction with all requisite necessaries supplying him, and diligent attendance, as well of those in the Family, as of some other also for that end procured from abroad, without intermission successively about him; even the Gentlewoman her self (though advised to forbear, in regard of some malignity deemed to be in the disease) frequently resorting to him, sitting by him, and with her own hands offering for his better ease to be helpfull unto him, which yet he was very loath to admit; in all which from the first to the last she expressed a very great measure of cordiall affection unto him, and no lesse an earnest desire, both of his present relief, and future recovery also, if God should see it so good; yet the time being now come wherein the Lord had deter∣mined to put an end to his faithfull Servants labourious employments, continued distractions, and restlesse condition, and to translate him hence to a place of endlesse rest, and peace never to be interrupted a∣gain; the force of the disease within the space of a few daies fretted a∣sunder those bands that kept soul and body together, and leaving the one behind to be laid up in the bowels of that element whence it had its first original,* 2.37 set the other at full liberty to return unto him, from whom alone it immediately received its existence at first.

During the short time of his sickness, wherein yet through Gods goodnesse he continued free from any notable sense of pain, and was accompanied with much freedom of mind and memory,* 2.38 he had his heart and tongue in meditation set wholly upon God, acknowledging his spe∣cial favour and goodnesse unto him, who had so far forth vouchsafed to cast a gracious eye upon him so vile and loathsome a creature, while he yet con∣tinued in his native condition, as to give him an interest by Faith in his Christ; yea so farre farther to grace so unworthy a wretch, as to call him to be a Minister of his Word, and Publisher of his Will, and to make his weak endeavours and worthlesse labours, at any time in any measure effica∣cious to any of his people, (as he hoped in some sort with some at least they

had been) either for the conversion and bringing of them home unto him, or for the establishing and building of them up in the saving knowledge and belief of his truth, and in the graces and comforts of his Spirit. With∣all seriously professing this to be his comfort, the testimony of his conscience in the sight of God bearing witnesse in his behalf, that in sincerity of heart, though with much weaknesse, and amidst many failings, through the whole course of his Ministry, his main end and scope in all his labours and endea∣vour's had been both in publick and private, to seek the glory of God, the delivery of his truth, the peace of his Church, the spiritual good of his people; in all things to approve himself to him, and continue faithfull with him, who hath been pleased to take him into his service; and desiring now nothing more, then that he might be so enabled through the support of his good Spirit, that by his Christian and comfortable carriage under his Fatherly hand, in this close of his day-work, he might confirm and seal up to others the truth of those things that he had formerly professed and taught. Withall earnestly exhorting all that came about him, to learn now to die before they came to it,* 2.39 to be sure to lay a good foundation in time of life and health, for matter of firm support and sound comfort in time of sick∣ness, and at the hour of death; and to make as much provision and strong preparations against that time as they could, assuring themselves, that they should find all their utmost endeavours and carefullest addresses to be little enough, when they came once to that Work. Amidst these and the like Religious Meditations and Pious Employments, peceiving his desired end now to approach, and having requested prayer to be con∣ceived in his behalf by a special Friend, who had accompanied him most part of his sicknesse, not long after that Office performed by him, he quietly and peaceably resigned his soul into the hands of his blessed Sa∣viour, no lesse ready (doubtlesse) to receive it from him, then himself was desirous and forward to recommend it unto him.

His Funeral rites were performed at Chelsey, where he drew his last breath; most of the Ministers of better note about the City,* 2.40 either constantly residing, or occasionally detained there, besides a very great multitude of private persons well affected, repairing thereunto. Who were all there, after the usuall manner in such cases and on such occasi∣ons, entertained at the charge and by the bounty of that worthy Gen∣tlewoman of singular Piety, in whose house he deceased. From which place his Corps being conveyed on the shoulders of six of his Reverend Brethren of the Ministry, who of their own accord offered themselves unto that Office, to the place of publick Assembly, where it was to be interred: Master Thomas Gataker his ancient and inward Friend, though full of grief for the loss of one, who so entirely affected him, and whom as well for the high esteem he had of him and his worth, as for that entire affection which he constantly bare to him, was most deser∣vedly exceedingly dear to him; and in regard thereof not so free or fit for performance of that Office; yet enforced himself to preach at his Funerall, and to give, though very briefly, such Testimony of him, as was generally approved of by his Reverend Brethren there present.

And he was indeed a man of very eminent parts,* 2.41 for sharpnesse of wit, clearnesse of apprehension, soundnesse of judgment, exactnesse of method, and powerfulnesse of delivery, of singular dexterity in beating out perplexed and intricate debates, descrying and discovering where the knots lay, stating of Controversies aright, and dissolving of difficult cases of conscience; to which purpose not only many even from remote parts resorted unto him, either of their own accord, or di∣rected and recommended unto him by other his Brethren of the Ministry, as one most likely of any to give them satisfaction in their doubts; but divers of them also, of good note, (as by their Letters to him may appear) deemed it no disparagement to seek resolution from him in questions of that nature themselves. Neither was he one that kept his talent wrapt up in a Napkin; but though he were cooped up mostly in an obscure corner, through the harsh courses of those, that would not suffer his light to shine forth in any eminent place; yet was he ex∣ceeding laborious in those parts wherein he lived, both in private em∣ployments at constant set times in the Family, and in publick also, where he might be permitted, though without benefit to himself: that which may appear by abundance of papers and note-books yet extant, though by many casualties a multitude of them have miscarried. Be∣sides his constant course of preaching at Stapenhill, for the most of his time from his first admission into that Family, save only by interrupti∣on, through occasion of removals, which neither usually lasted over∣long, nor, though distracted him in his Studies, did any whit lightly lessen his labours; he was frequently drawn forth to joyn with other his Reverend Brethren in their meetings and exercises, at Ashbie de la Zouch in Leicester-shire, at Repton in Darby-shire, and at Burton upon Trent; at some of which meetings the manner being, that some one of them preached his hour on the Scipture propounded the meet∣ing before, and the rest or a certain number of them spent af∣terward, each one his half hour or thereabout on some other por∣tion of Scripture, one being appointed to moderate, by minding each that spake, if occasion were, of the time, and to close up all with some succinct rehearsal of what had been delivered, together with an additament, if it seemed good, of somewhat of his own. It hath been reported by some of those Ministers, who frequented these ex∣ercises, that when they could get this our Brother, into that number, or into the chair, which latter he could hardly be drawn into, he was observed to have a reach still beyond the rest; and in regard of his depth of judgment, and dexterity in due ballancing of points controvert∣ed, and differences in opinion concerning the same, he was com∣monly stiled among them The weighing Divine, as hath been attest∣ed by that worthy Servant of Christ now at rest with him, Master Oliver Bowles, from the mouths of some of them, who in his hearing related it.

* 2.42For his ordinary manner of teaching, it was in some kinde some∣what different from the usuall Method of the most Teachers in those

times. For he seldome made any excursion into the handling of common places, or drew his subject matter out at length by any prolixly continued discourse: But the main frame both of his pub∣lick Sermons and private Exercises, for the most part, if not wholly, consisted, after some brief and genuine resolution of the context, and explication of the termes, where need required, of notes and ob∣servations, with much variety and great dexterity drawn immedi∣ately from the text, and naturally, without constraint, issuing and flowing either from the main body, or from the several limbs of it, with some usefull application annexed thereunto: which though neither of them long insisted upon, yet were wont with that viva∣city to be propounded and pressed by him, as well might, and oft did, pierce deep into the hearts of his hearers,* 2.43 and not only rectifie and clear their judgments, but have a powerfull work also upon their affections. Nor was it his manner to quote many Scriptures, finding it troublesome to his memory, and supposing it would be so to his Au∣ditours also: (that which was the practice and opinion also of Doctor Chaderton, as they well know, that heard him on Matth. 21.13.) besides deeming it the lesse needfull, in regard that his Observati∣ons being grounded immediately on the Scripture he handled; and by necessary consequence thence deduced, seemed to receive proof sufficient from it. A constant form of prayer he used, as in the Fa∣mily, so in his publick Ministry;* 2.44 only varying or adding upon speci∣all accasions, as occurences intervening required; the reason he gave thereof, was this, because hesitation, (which he said he was much subject unto) was in prayer more offensive, then in other dis∣course; unto prophane ones especially, whereof in mixt multitudes, and meetings, some lightly, too many usually, were; that which he af∣firmed also to have been Master Cartwrights practice, with whom some∣time he conversed.

In such manner of teaching he went over divers portions of Scrip∣ture: Among others, the fifty first,* 2.45 and the hundred and nineteenth Psalms: the story of Hanna, 1 Sam. 1. and of Naaman the Syrian, 2 Kings 5. Part of Christs Sermon on the Mount, Matth. 5. the Parable of the Sower, Matth. 13. and of the rich man and Lazarus, Luk. 16. the relation of Christs Temptations, recorded by two of the Evangelists: the whole History of Christs apprehension, araignment and execution; together with Judas his end; the four first Chapters of the Epistle to the Romanes; the three last Chapters of the Epistle to the Hebrews, beside many other more particular parcels of Scripture.

Of this sort was by himself published in his life-time, A Preparation to the Sacrament of the Lords Supper;* 2.46 at first written out at the re∣quest of that right religious Lady Darcy for her private use, and by importunity afterwards, made more publick for the farther benefit of others. Therewith many have been much taken, (by means whereof it hath oft been reprinted) and among others one Tho∣mas Foster a Mercer by trade, living at Shefford in Bedfordshire, a

very honest, humble-minded, and sincere-hearted Christian, hath been heard to professe, that that Book, and that part of it more specially wherein are laid down certain marks and signs of Faith and Re∣pentance, was as farre (as he was able to deem) the only outward Instrumentall means of his Conversion, through the gracious co-ope∣ration of Gods Spirit working powerfully and efficaciously upon his heart in the reading thereof. And since his death have been published, A Nuptial Sermon, entituled, A Marriage Feast, on Joh. 2.1.—12. A Meditation of Mans mortality, on Psal. 90. His Sermons on the se∣cond Epistle to the Thessalonians. A Treatise of Christian Reproof, on Matth. 18.15, 17. And another of the Sin against the Holy Ghost, on Matth. 12.22.—32. which in his life-time he had been by that wor∣thy Knight Sir Robert Darcy, who died not long before him, much pres∣sed to publish; but could not prevail with him, being very backward in that kind, much undervaluing his own works, and very rarely, if e∣ver, satisfying himself in ought that he undertook. For the use of the Family wherein he lived, he drew up a twofold Catechism as they term it; the one somewhat large, the other more brief, for young beginners extracted out of the former; which latter, to save labour of transcri∣bing, he permitted to be printed.

What spare time he had from his constant imployments either private or publick, when not taken off by occasionall Occurrences, he spent most of it principally three waies.

First, In labouring to clear some Points about the Do••trine of Faith and Justification; Concerning the latter whereof, after many debates (first occasioned by some Lectures of Doctor Grey, sometime Fel∣low of Trinity Colledge in Cambridge, then reading on that Subject at Gresham Colledge in London) that passed to and fro by reciprocall Let∣ters between him and a special friend of his, he began to set upon an exact Treatise of that Argument: Which being upon the first draught of it communicated to that friend of his, upon some advertisements from him, he in divers particulars farther cleared; and being afterward imparted to divers of prime note in either University, he was by them not much encouraged only, but earnestly incited to divulge it; that, which though by much difficulty drawn unto, yet at length he did. And howsoever that accurate piece was but coursely enter∣tained by one of his Brethren in the Ministry, then living in the City, traducing it publickly in a Lecture at Pauls, quarrelling with him who had licensed it for the Presse, and framing a bitter In∣vective against it; which upon perusall was found so virulent, that he could not get it permitted to passe to the Presse; yet was the work so well approved by many learned and judicious in both our Universities, that divers of them have professed to have received more light thence in that Point, then they had ever before from the writings of any that had dealt in that Argument. Hence it was that having occasion to be sometime on the Act-day at Oxford, one of those that had seen it, and deeming not underservedly of the workwan by the work,

seeing him passe along in a plain russet cloak, is reported by some that were then in company with him, to have said to them, Do you see the man that goeth yonder, in that plain habit, and in that self-neglect∣ing garb and posture? he hath more sound learning in his head, then twenty of us have. And that famous Professor Doctor Prideaux, af∣ter his decease, in some company hearing his Son yet surviving then pre∣sent there named, demanded of him whether that Master Bradshaw, that wrote the Treatise of Justification were his Father? and being informed that he was, he professed himself heartly glad to see the Son of that man, for the old acquaintance he had, not with his Father himself, but with that work of his, for those were the Doctors own words. Hereunto may be added the Verdict of that great and grave Counsellour of State, so much esteemed for his judgment in Law-Cases, the Lord Cook, who visiting the Gentlewoman (by the marri∣age of her daughter to his Sonne, noe neerly linked to him) at her house where Master Bradshaw then lay sick, and finding the Book ly∣ing accidentally in a window, after the perusall of some good part of it, freely professed, That he had seldome read a thing more pithily and preg∣nanly written.

Nor was this work of his in such esteem at home only, but with other learned also abroad. Among whom Master Lewis Cappel a man of speciall note for variety of learning, and Professor of Divinity at Salmure in France, having received the Book sent him from Lon∣don by Master Aaron Cappel his kinsman, then Minister of the French Church there, returneth him many thanks for it; requesting him withall, to enquire after the Authors place of abode, and con∣vey from him unto him the Letter enclosed; In the Superscription whereof he stileth him, Doctissimum, ornatissimun, clarissimúmque virum; and in the Subscription, out of his respect to him, and estima∣tion, yea admiration of him, in regard of that piece alone, thus writes of himself, Tui non studiosus modò; sed cultor & admirator. In the body of the Letter, after signification, how upon some occa∣sion being to part with the Book, he had taken pains, before he would let it go out of his hands, to translate it out of English into French, he passeth this censure of it, A little Book, small for bulk, but for learn∣ing, wit and acutenesse a grand one.—To speak ingenuously, I never hitherto read ought in any humane writing of Doctrinal Divinity, that so exceedingly liked me; so learnedly, acutely, soundly, pithily, plainly, and yet with admirable brevity is this Argument so fully comprised, and throughly handled therein, I want words wherewith to commend and ex∣toll it according to its due desert; I have oft read it over, and yet ne∣ver have enough of it; but the oftner I return to it, and read it over a∣gain, the more eagerly is mine appetite stirred up unto it, so much light and brightness of learning, wit and art shineth forth in it. And whereas treading then precisely in Piscators steps, he propounded his doubts withall, concerning some particulars, wherein Master Brad∣shaw seemed to swarve from Piscator; Master Bradshaw to give him

farther satisfaction therein, and yet save much writing at large to and fro, reviewed his own work, and endeavoured to clear those things somewhat better; wherein also he was farthered by some Excepti∣ons from Master Wootton imparted unto himself, unto which he had returned an Answer; and having turned it so revised into Latine, he sent a copy of it in writing unto Master Cappel, who upon receit thereof, wrote back at first briefly, but not long after more fully, in these words; Right worthy Sir, I wrote before to you, that I had received your truly golden Book, enlarged by you and turned into Latine, and that presently I read it over, but in haste; so eager an appetite had I unto it, by reading the other Edition of it in English before. Since that I have read it over again, not once, but often, and taking leasure thereunto. Which the oftner I read over, the more it pleaseth me, and is approved of by me, so accurately and exactly is it composed by you, I hope this birth and issue of your mind will find approbation with peaceable and moderate dispositions, on whether side soever, albeit you condescend not unto them in all things that they require. You so space in the middle between either o∣pinion, that neither of them ought to be displeased with you, if they truly love peace and concord.

Thus that learned man word for word translated out of his Let∣ters in Latine, which in the same language have been represented al∣so, and published elsewhere. Whereby may appear, what entertain∣ment, approbation, and estimation this Treatise (which yet the Au∣thor speaks so meanly of himself in private Letters to his Friends) found with the learned in forreign parts, and he himself also, where otherwise wholly unknown, for it. And whosoever shall with a re∣gardfull eye read over the generally well approved, and deservedly much esteemed writings of those worthy Servants of God, now with the Lord, Master William Pemble and Master Samuel Torsel, con∣cerning this subject, collated with this of Master Bradshaw, which came forth some good space before either of them had writ ought; he shall easily discern, on whose foundation they built, in whose steps they trod, with whose heifer they ploughed, at what Torch they lighted their Tapers, and from whence they received much of their light in that Argument. For it may be with good ground of truth be averred, that amids the extream opposition of Divines in this point dissenting, this our Brother did herein beat out such a middle tract be∣tween them, as appears not to have been formerly discovered by any, wherein these two men of special note coming after him, for the main matter of their principles, have kept close to his footsteps, in the path by him cut out and cleared to their hands. Of this latter in Latine, a Copy being sent over by him to Doctor Ames not long before his dicease, was by him not long after it printed. Unto this his purpose was to have added a Treatise of Ju∣stifying Faith, the proper nature, peculiar act, and Office of it in that work, and great pity it was that such and head as this one piece shews him to have had, was not set apart for such like employ∣ments.

How many points of much difficulty might haply been clear, if one of his parts had received encouragement, and means of support, to apply himself and his main studies unto so usefull an employment? Surely what he saith of another, might be well said of him, That if such as he was, had the handling of Controversies, Questions would not be so infinite and intricate oft as they are, and being aright stated, some that now fight most eagerly one against another, would be found to agree, being brought at length aright to understand either other.

A second businesse whereunto he applied himself, about which he took much pains, was in the discussion of the matters then in contro∣vesie, for which he so much suffered, about Subscription, the Cere∣monies then pressed, the Civil Power, and the Prelatical, in affairs of that nature. Of this kind discourses penned by him were under∣hand printed, and published, as they could be secretly got out and dispersed, these folowing: A Protestation of Supremacy: The Eng∣lish Puritanism: A Treatise of True and False Worship: Twelve Arguments against the Ceremonies, and conformity thereunto: Of the Nature of things Indifferent. Of which Argument also he wrote in Latine an Answer to Master Gabriel Powel, which yet was not pub∣lished. And it is well known to some yet surviving, that the greatest part of that which was done in that grand Controversie with Doctor Downham concerning Episcopacy, for the main matter of it, came forth of his forge; (howsoever of his labour and paines there∣in taken, another bare the name, and received the reward of the work) the tart and bitter language only, wherewith it was rather pickled then seasoned, proceeding from another pen, somewhat too much steeped in Vineger and Gall, that which he complaineth of, as much misliking, in a Letter to a Friend: for he was a man of a very mild and meek spirit, and of a moderate disposition; and how farre forth in his judgment and practice he could have acknow∣ledged, submitted unto, and complied with some kind of Superin∣tendency, or Episcopacy, as it is commonly stiled, may appear by his demands propounded to Master Francis Johnson in his Answer to his Reasons for Seperation, of which more anon. Divers other subjects he had set upon, and made entrance into, but afterward laid aside; whether for want of time and opportunity, or for what other causes, uncertain: among others, of the former sort, was a Refutation in Latine of Dutch Thomsons Diatribae, de amissione & intercisione justificationis & gratiae; which upon notice given him of Doctor Abbots undertaking of that task, he surceased; of this latter sort, in English, An Answer to Master Hookers Ecclesiasticall Po∣lity, a work so much cried up; and admired by the most, and it were greatly to be wished, that he had had life and leasure (had the Lord seen it good) to have gone through with it: but the Lord had otherwise disposed.

In the third and last place, amids these his labours about, and suffering for those controversed matters, he bent his forces as much also another way; to wit, against Sectaries and Separatists. To

this purpose he had divers bickerings with them, and with some of the chief leaders among them,* 2.47 both by Conferences with them, and by writings against them and the courses taken by them, whereby many were stayed from going those wayes, and some also reclaimed and brought back again. Among other, at the request of a Gentle∣man of Lincolns-Inne, (for the stay of some that were staggering, and warping that way, that one Master Clifton had gone before them, seduced by Master Smith sometime Fellow of Christs Col∣ledge, who had thrice been baptized) having imparted to him a Re∣lation in writing, of what had past between Smith and Clifton, who by that their mutuall Collation pretended, as upon good and just grounds, being convict in conscience, to have past over to him; he wrote a large Discourse, wherein he discovered a great deal of weak∣nesse, as well in the Arguments of the one, as in the Answers of the other; thereby making it manifestly to appear, by what slight and ill-wrought twine rather then twist, that might have easily been snapt asunder; Master Clifton had been drawn away, and indu∣ced to leave his former station, and abandon his wonted profession; nor was his labour herein without its desired successe with those, for whom it was undertaken: As also thereby he took occasion to write A Defence of the Baptism of Infants, against the same parties. A∣gainst Master Francis Johnsons Reasons for Separation, he wrote a Book entituled, The Unreasonablness of Separation, and that upon this occasion. One that was deemed to be a man of an ingenuous disposition, was earnestly solicited by some with whom he conversed, to withdraw from our Congregations, and seeming to be much per∣plexed with Master Johnsons Arguments, was yet perswaded by some of his discreet Friends, to do nothing inconsiderately in a businesse of that concernment and consequence, but to consider seriously first of it, and have conference with some grave and godly Ministers, such as he deemed as well judicious as consciencious; whereby it might be descri∣ed, whether the grounds that he was in this course intended to go upon, were such as would endure triall or no; this advice of theirs was hearkened unto, and choice made by himself of Master Bradshaw and another, whom he conceived to be both understanding and moderate men.* 2.48 The place for conference was agreed upon to be in a common Friends house, and the meeting intended to be very private, not above two or three of that party, besides himself, the two Ministers and those of the house; but such of them whose presence alone he desi∣red, having acquainted divers others of their complices therewith, a multitude of them intruded themselves. Now in regard of such an unexpected company, it was deemed meet to proceed the more wa∣rily. And the party in the conference principally concerned, being put to his choice, whether he would Argue or Answer, was willing rather to Argue, and to make use of Master Johnsons Arguments, then to frame others of his own: that which very well pleased those of the separating side, as deeming Master Johnsons Arguments un∣answerable.

To prevent mis-reports, it was mutually agreed, that two persons, one of either side, should write down each Argument, as it was propounded, and each Answer, as it was returned thereunto, and should read audibly, what had passed in the prosecution of any Ar∣gument at the close of it, before entry upon a new, which was accord∣ingly done; and so many of Master Johnsons Reasons discussed as the straits of time would permit; in pursuit whereof was so evidently shewed how grossely Master Johnson had abused divers passages of Scripture, quoted for proof of those propositions, whereunto he had affixed them, that the whole company of them were exceedingly puz∣led with it, and some of them to save their Champions credit, would fain have fastned some fault upon the Printers, but could not well find how to do it. The evening coming on, the debate ceased for that day: and Copies on either side taken, being read, collated, and interchangeably delivered, the conference was adjourned till after∣noon the next day, what time the other Arguments were to be scanned. But the party, whom the businesse concerned, being per∣swaded by the rest of them, (as it seemed) to desist, did the next morning make known his unwillingnesse for some pretended causes to go on; and so it brake off. Howbeit Master Bradshaw having wa∣ded so farre in examination of Master Johnsons Reasons, was much importuned to proceed on therein, and to go through with the rest, considering how needfull a work it was, and how usefull it might prove. Which being at length drawn unto, and that the rather because Ma∣ster Johnson had fetcht some Arguments from grounds laid by him in that Treatise against Conformity, which it stood Master Bradshaw up∣on therefore to consider of, and give satisfaction unto; that which was drawn up by him, after perusall and approbation of some, on whose judgment he much relied, was by their advice sent over to Master Ames, who with an Epistle of his own prefixed, caused it to be printed in those parts, where he then abode. Neither was there any Reply e∣ver returned unto it, in defence of Master Johnson, either by himself, while he lived, or by any other in his behalf, so long as Master Brad∣shaw survived; only many years after Master Bradshaws decease, an attempt was made against it by one Master Can of Amsterdam, which was not long after returned back upon its Author by a Friend of the deceased.

And indeed to Separation he was ever very adverse, and to withdraw∣ing from the publick places of Assembly, or from any part of Gods Worship there used. To which purpose shall be related out of his pa∣pers in his own words the ensuing passages; delivered by him in a Sermon at Longford on Matth. 5.1. It is the great mercy of God to∣ward us, that we have no cause to seek the word in deserts and wildernesses, in woods and caves and desolate mountains; but such worthy edifices as these to assemble in, dedicated only to this use. And where Gods people have by publick authority such places as these appointed and allowed ordi∣narily to assemble and meet in, we are fouly at least to suspect those As∣semblies,

and the worship done therein, which forsake those places, and fly into woods and deserts. It is true, that among the Jews at this time there was the Temple, and besides sundry Synagogues, answeriing to these Churches of ours; and which is more, the doors of the Pulpits were ge∣nerally open to Christ himself; and yet our Saviour often taught in other places, but this was upon extraordinary occasions, such as seldome or ne∣ver fall out with us; and so carried by our Saviour, that there was no Schisme or Separation made by him, or any of his speciall Disciples or fol∣lowers, from the Assemblies then established. And after concerning the places of Assembly themselves: It is indeed an honour, that those which are in Authority and ability, should do to the Worship of God, to see that comely and seemly places be dedicated and separated from other common uses thereunto; and it is a disgrace and contempt to Gods Worship, when men that may remedy it, care not how base and contemptible the place of Gods Worship is; when men have not that care of the place, where the holy Assembly of God meets, as they have of their barns and stables. As al∣so concerning some circumstances of Gesture used in them; From Christ sitting to teach, we learn in such externall behaviour to follow our Savi∣ours example; that is, in matters not doubtfull, and controversal, at least to conform our selves to such outward fashions as are generally used in those times, and that Church wherein we live. For example, in the like case; It is the general custom in our Church, that the Ministers preach standing in a seat higher then the People, and bare-headed: and this ge∣sture is no peculiar gesture, but borrowed from the common practice of O∣rators and such persons as make speeches to solemn Assemblies. It's meet therefore in such cases, that we should not be singular and odde, but con∣form to the received fashion of the Church. So that if we should sit and preach as Christ did, we should not conform to Christ; because we should cross that, which was the ground why Christ sate. Lastly, concerning re∣pair to all parts of Gods service, from those words; And his Disciples came to him, &c. This also is a matter of order, that, as much as may be, divine Worship should begin, when the Congregation is assembled and come together. Therefore the Members of an Assembly should make more conscience then usually they do of coming together sooner. I urge this the rather, because it is a general fault in our Assemblies, not committed only by them, that care not which end of Religion goeth forward, but ge∣nerally of most, that so they come to some part of Gods Worship, it is well enough, especially if they can come time enough to the beginning of the Sermon. Hence many times the Minister with the Clerk are fain to per∣form a great part of the publick Worship of God alone, or with one or two at the most, and the rest of the Church come dropping in one after ano∣ther at their own leasure; as though the publick prayers of the Church, and reading the Scriptures were a Worship that concerned the Minister, and Clerk only, and not the whole Church. This is the rather related, and here inserted, because not published, to manifest the moderation of the man, notwithstanding so much hard measure as he sustained from the hands of those, who so grievously abused the power they had in those times.

Thus have you a rude and crude delineation of this blessed and faith∣full Servant of Gods course and race, whose life was indeed as a con∣tinuall peregrination here upon earth; extracted, partly from Letters written to him by others, communicated, for the better making up of this module, by Master Samuel Hildersham, Pastor of the Church at West-Felton in Shropshire, Sonne to that famous man of pious memo∣ry Master Arthur Hildersham, and Master John Bradshaw, at present Minister of the Word at Echingham in Sussex, Sonne to this worthy Champion of Christ Jesus, both genuine heirs of their Parents best parts; and partly from relations of his own and others of good credit, his Letters especially to a bosome Friend, whom he was wont from time to time thereby to acquaint with most occurrents of note that befell him, or did any way concern him, while they lived at a distance. It might have been more exactly and intirely performed, had not some Letters of his been lost, and a bundle of others to him miscarried, torn by Rats in his absence from the place where they lay, the losse whereof in a Letter he much laments, and wishes that as many of his Books, to save them, had undergone the like ill-usage.

His death was much lamented, as by all that knew his parts, and how usefull he might farther have been to Gods Church, had the Lord been pleased to lengthen out the line of his life; so more especially by the well-affected of that Family, whereunto he had adhered; but in a degree farre above the rest by the head thereof, Mistresse Katharine Re∣dich the relict of Master Alexander Redich, deprived now of a second stay, and principal support, for spiritual helps especially, since her Husbands decease; a very tender-hearted Gentlewoman, much addi∣cted to hospitality, and of very remarkeable devotion and piety, report∣ed by those who were inwardly acquainted with her more retired courses, to have been wont constantly to spend privately twice a day, at several set times an hour at least, in meditation and prayer mixed oft with many tears. She good soul, was so affected with his departure, and so feelingly apprehensive of her own losse thence ensuing, that al∣beit she survived him about, if not above some twelve years; yet was it observed by those that conversed with her, that to her dying day, she could very seldome with dry eyes, either speak of him, or hear him spoken of by others; that which made divers forbear speaking of him, what they well might, in her presence, for the renewing of her grief. Nor was her hearty affection to him, and due esteem of him manifested in such kind of expressions alone, (where, in even counterfeits, though not so constantly, yet can at sometimes exceed) but it was made to appear in beneficence to her ability, and in carefull provision to her power for those he left behind him; for what by her Husband was in∣tended, though she met with many obstructions in the pursuit of it, the state was so entangled, she at length got made good, and setled accord∣ing to his desire. And for his eldest Sonne, (for he left three, where∣of two yet survive, and a Daughter,) being set apart for a Scholar, she maintained him at Grammar-School, untill he was fitted for the

University, and at the University in part also, so long as she lived.

With those in general, among whom he lived, and that knew him but at a distance, he left behind him the estimation of one very studious, humble, plain, honest, loving, free, liberal, charitable and compassionate. Very studious they deemed him, because they seldome saw him walk∣ing abroad without a Book in his hand; and reading usually, if alone, on it, as he walked, though he walked commonly somewhat fast, being therein farthered through the quicknesse of his eye, and the steadinesse of his hand. And for his humility, it so readily offered it self to the eye in his whole deportment, that they could not but take notice of it, reading it as written in text letters, therein, that saw ought at all in him. A plain man he was, as Jacob, without welt or gard; and a plain-deal∣ing man, as Nathaniel, without craft or guile; free from all courtship, either for counterfeit, or complement. Among the meaner sort he was the more beloved, because, though his means were but mean and scant, yet they perceived him to be of a free and liberal disposition; and were willing therefore to work with him ordinarily before any o∣ther,* 2.49 because he used to give them somewhat above their hire or agree∣ment, which few others did. His charitable mind and tender-hearted∣nesse many waies manifested it self. It hath been known, that he hath borrowed money, when he had none about him, or by him, to relieve some that have been in want; and to have been as carefull to repay it, as forward to part with it. While he was at Chatham, some gallies that had sometime been built for service, and lay a long time after there idle, being found unusefull for our Seas; yet being then on foot, and some put into them; he walked down one day with some company to see the manner of them: which when he had viewed, it seemed to him so dis∣mal a sight, to see men, Christian men, put to such kind of servitude, that he could not endure to behold it without tears, and having given them a little money, so left them, returning back in a very sad and pensive moode. Yea, he was one of those, whom Solomon speaks of, whose commiseration reacheth even to the bruit beasts, which he could not endure to see unmercifully used: and would oft say he was perswa∣ded that men took too much liberty to themselves in killing and mis∣using some, even contemptible creatures, without cause. Riding home∣ward sometime with his Sonne behind him, whom he had taken out with him, the waies being bad and deep, and the beast that bare them travelling heavily and wearisomely, he took occasion thereby to enter into a discourse to the lad behind him, what hardship the poor unrea∣sonable creature was put to, to be serviceable to us, what misery such sustained for mans sinne; and so affectionately he spake of it, that to his Sonne, whom he spake to, he seemed to weep with it.

He may be thought to have had some presage of his end, approach∣ing, before his last accesse to the City. For it is reported by his Sonne now in the Ministry, and treading in his Fathers steps, that being very earnest in soliciting of him, that he might then go up to London with him, which since he sucked, it seems he had never seen, he willed him,

not to be so desirous to see London; for whensoever he saw London, he should see it to his cost. And to his great grief indeed he did, coming up with his Mother a heavy Widow, not long after his Fathers depar∣ture hence, and funerall rites here performed.

We shall close all, with that free and ingenuous Character, which that Illustrious late Bishop of Norwich, his old, true and loving Friend (he is pleased so to stile himself in some Letters to him) truly giveth of himself: He was, saith he, of a strong brain, and a free spirit;* 2.50 not suffering himself for small differences of judgment to be alienated from his Friends; to whom notwithstanding his seeming austerity, he was very pleasing in his conversation, being full of witty and harmlesse urbanity: he vas very strong and eager in arguing, hearty in his friendship, regard∣less of the world, a despiser of complement, a lover of reality, full of di∣gested learning, and excellent notions; a painfull labourer in Gods work, and now, no doubt, gloriously rewarded.

This Life was drawn up by my Reverend, Learned, and worthy Friend Mr. Thomas Gataker of Rederich.

Notes

• * 1.1

  His Parentage.
• * 1.2

  His Education at Worcester.
• * 1.3

  His return to Bosworth.
• * 1.4

  Gods Provi∣dence in pro∣viding for him
• * 1.5

  His going to Cambridge.
• * 1.6

  Admitted into to Emanuel Colledge.
• * 1.7

  His diligence in his studies.
• * 1.8

  D^r Chadertons care for him.
• * 1.9

  Sidney Colledg built.
• * 1.10

  His journey in∣to Guernsey.
• * 1.11

  M^r Cart∣wrights love to him.
• * 1.12

  His carriage in his place.
• * 1.13

  His return to Cambridge. M^r Cart∣wrights com∣mendation of him.
• * 1.14

  His gracious deliverance in his return.
• * 1.15

  Gods special Providence o∣ver him.
• * 1.16

  A Miracle of mercy.
• * 1.17

  He is admitte-Fellow in Sid∣ney Colledge.
• * 1.18

  His Gratitude.
• * 1.19

  His humility.
• * 1.20

  His inviolable friendship.
• * 1.21

  His prudent and winning carriage.
• * 1.22

  His Prudence.
• * 1.23

  His self-denial
• * 1.24

  He enters in∣to the Mini∣stry.
• * 1.25

  His imploy∣ment at Abing∣ton.
• * 1.26

  And at Steeple-Morden.
• * 1.27

  The occasion of his first trouble.
• * 1.28

  The Bishops subtlle pra∣ctices.
• * 1.29

  A special Pro∣vidence.
• * 1.30

  His courage.
• * 1.31

  He withdraws from the Col∣ledge.
• * 1.32

  His Letter to a Friend about it.
• * 1.33

  His return to the Colledge.
• * 1.34

  He is sent for to Chatham.
• * 1.35

  He goes to Chatham.
• * 1.36

  His faithful∣ness in his place.
• * 1.37

  A motion of marriage made to him.
• * 1.38

  Satans malice against the progresse of the Gospel.
• * 1.39

  He is accused to the Bishop.
• * 1.40

  Sir Francis Hastings his Letter to the Archbishop in his behalf.
• * 1.41

  Bishop Ban∣crofts malice.
• * 1.42

  Master Bear∣blocks malice against him.
• * 1.43

  He is charged with Heresie.
• * 2.1

  His Letter to Master Bear∣block about that charge.
• * 2.2

  The Antino∣mians practice.
• * 2.3

  A Spie sent to entrap him.
• * 2.4

  He is falsly ac∣cused.
• * 2.5

  He is summon∣ed before the Bishop.
• * 2.6

  He is summon∣ed before the Bishops.
• * 2.7

  Subscription made a snare.
• * 2.8

  He is suspend∣ed from Chat∣ham.
• * 2.9

  Another Spie sent to entrap him.
• * 2.10

  The Inhabi∣tants of Chat∣ham Petition for him to the Bishop.
• * 2.11

  Gods Provi∣dence for him.
• * 2.12

  He departs from Chatham.
• * 2.13

  He is setled at Newhall.
• * 2.14

  His small means of Maintenance.
• * 2.15

  His contenta∣tion.
• * 2.16

  His Letter to a Friend about it.
• * 2.17

  His humility.
• * 2.18

  His great pains.
• * 2.19

  Monstrous in∣gratitude.
• * 2.20

  He is chosen Lecturer at Christ Church London.
• * 2.21

  Bishop Ban∣crofts malice.
• * 2.22

  His marriage.
• * 2.23

  Conformity strictly pressed
• * 2.24

  Gods good providence o∣ver him.
• * 2.25

  The trouble of his Wife.
• * 2.26

  Gods mercy.
• * 2.27

  His return to Newhall.
• * 2.28

  The Lady Fer∣rers respect to him though a Papist.
• * 2.29

  His prudence in his Mini∣stry.
• * 2.30

  Bishop Neals malice.
• * 2.31

  Gods Provi∣dence over him.
• * 2.32

  His Letter a∣bout Master Rediches death
• * 2.33

  Note.
• * 2.34

  He is inhibited from preach∣ing.
• * 2.35

  But soon re∣stored.
• * 2.36

  His last sick∣nesse.
• * 2.37

  His Death An. Christi 1618.
• * 2.38

  His behaviour in his sickness.
• * 2.39

  His counsell to his friends.
• * 2.40

  His Burial.
• * 2.41

  His excellent parts.
• * 2.42

  His method in teaching.
• * 2.43

  The efficacy of his Mini∣stry.
• * 2.44

  He used a form of prayer, and why.
• * 2.45

  The Scriptures which he preached over.
• * 2.46

  His works that were published.
• * 2.47

  His zeal a∣gainst Secta∣ries and Sepa∣ratists.
• * 2.48

  A Disputation.
• * 2.49

  His Charity.
• * 2.50

  Doctor Halls character of him.