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 of Master Julines Herring, who died Anno Christi 1644.

* 1.1IUlines Herring was born in Flamber-mayre Parish in Mountgomery-shire, 1582. His Father within three years after returned with his Wife and Family into Coventry, where his Ancestors had been chief offi∣cers of the City, in their course almost for the space of two hundred years, and where he himself also was Sheriff and Maior, living and dying in good e∣stimation there. This Julines his Son, having had his first education in Shropshire, with Master Perkin Minister (at More-Chappel,) his Mothers near Kinsman, (where he learned the Principles of Religion) was brought home unto Coventry,* 1.2 where he was trained up in Learning, under Reverend Master Tovey, who then was Head Schoolmaster there. While he was a school-boy, he was noted for his diligence in reading the holy Scriptures,* 1.3 delighting in those Chapters e∣specially, which treat of Faith in Christ, and of repentance from sin to God. And even then in his child-hood, he with two or three School-fellows were so religiously disposed, that on play-daies they would pray together, and repeat the heads of their Catechisme, with the Sermons which they heard upon the last Lords day, before they went unto their Lusory exercises. Thus this Timothy grew acquainted with God and his Word, and the waies of Religion while he was a Child.

* 1.4Being very well fitted for the University, he was sent unto Cambridge, bout the fifteenth year of his age, and admitted into Sidney Colledge, where he was studious and a good Proficient in Academical Learning. When he was Master of Arts, coming home to his Father, he preached often in Coventry, with very good approbation amongst those, who were best affected towards the waies of Godlinesse. Here he had special en∣couragements in the study of Divinity, from Master Humphrey Fen, fa∣mous for his Ministry and Non-conformity at Coventry, (who in the Preface to his last Will and Testament, made so full and so open a Protestati∣on against the Hierarchy and Ceremonies, that the Prelatical Party would not suffer it to be put among the Records of the Court, when the Will was ten∣dred to be proved) and his conscience was unsatisfied to enter into the Ministry by Episcopal subscription, but through a good Providence, he with Master John Ball, were made Ministers by an Irish Bishop without that subscription. The first place of his setled Ministry was Cawk in Der∣byshire,* 1.5 (a small village) whither he was called by means of his much ho∣noured

good Friend Master Arthur Hildersam, and where he had good incouragements from Master Bainbridge, a Gentleman there of good e∣state and estimation for Religion. In this place, (which was six miles from Derby, and three from Ashby de la zouch,) his peace and liberty was the better preserved, because it was a peculiar, and so not subject unto Episcopal visitation. Here God was pleased to set a broad Seal to his Ministry, making him an happy Instrument to build up many, who were brought to Christ by Master Hildersams labours, and also to turn many others from darknesse to light, and from the power of Satan unto God.

At this time there was great scarcity of good Preachers in those parts, whereupon people from twenty towns and villages flocked unto Cawk-Chappel, (as Doves to the windows) every Sabbath day, where more congregated, (especially in summer and in afternoons,) then the Chappel could contain; yet standing at the windows without, they might hear the Sermons preached, and Scriptures read, because Master Herrings voice was clear and strong. Hither great companies came in the morning, with joyfull expectation of wholesome soul-provisions; here they continued all day with cheerfulnesse, (some bringing their vi∣ctuals from home with them, and others going to a third ordinary, provi∣ded purposely for the refreshing of strangers) and they went from hence in the evening in companies, repeating the Sermons, and singing Psalms in their return home. Here amongst many others, Master Simeon Ashe received some of his first impressions and bents towards Religion, whom Master Herring loved from his childhood, and who lived in his heart and Prayers unto his death.

And this is a matter considerable, that few (if any) in those parts, who were hopefully brought unto God, and by the Ministry of Ma∣ster Hildersam and Master Herring, have been turned aside into the by-paths of errour and separation in these broken dividing times, but they continue sound in their judgements, and holy in their conversa∣tions, well remembring the principles whereof they were well in∣structed and grounded by those two Worthies, their Fathers in Christ.

When he had continued at Cawke about the space of eight years, he was forced from thence for Non-conformity by the Prelatical pow∣er, being informed against by ill-affected men, who maligned the great service which he did, and envied the great respect which he had in those parts. Before he removed from thence, the Lord provided for him a most gracious yoak-fellow, who was no discouragement, but an encouragement rather unto him alwaies, both in his services and suf∣ferings for Christ and his cause. His Wife was the third Daughter of Master Gellibrand, (sometimes Preacher to the English company at Flushing in Holland) and Grand-child to that man of God Master John Oxenbridge, (Minister of Southam in Warwickshire, and afterwards of Bablick in Coventry, where he died) and as she came out of a godly stock, so she hath expressed, and still doth expresse the power of godli∣nesse,

in every condition and relation of her life, to Gods honour. By her he had thirteen Children;* 1.6 and as they were happily, mutually helpfull in the waies of holinesse, so it was their joynt care to educate their posterity in the nurture and fear of the Lord. They were taught the Principles of Religion from their childhood, and their tender good Mother (according to their Fathers appointment) caused them to learn the Proverbs of Solomon by heart. Neither was this gra∣cious care in vain; for the blossomes and fruits of grace, sweetly appear in their lives, to the comfort of their Parents, and Christian Friends. And here this one thing is notable and imitable in this worthy man, in reference to his Children, (viz.) That ever before he gave them cor∣rection, he endeavoured to convince them of their sin against God, and sought by tears and prayers for Gods blessing upon that means for their good.

When the course of his Ministry was interrupted at Cawk, and there was no hope of his peaceable continuance there, God (by means of Master William Rowley, a wise religious man, and his faithfull Friend) was pleased to open a door for the more publique exercise of his Ministry in Shrewsbury.* 1.7 Here he preached at Alkmares Church, every Tuesday morning, and upon the Sabbath also, (so long as liberty was allowed) which Sermon was at one a clock, that neither the Ministers of the town might be offended, nor other Congregations emptyed, by the peoples flocking unto his Ministry.

The Sermon which he preached on the Lords day, he repeated it the same night before Supper, at the houses of Master Edward Jones, Master George Wright, and Master William Rowley by course; and where∣as some spies were usually sent thither, (crowding in with the company) to pick quarrels, he behaved himself so prudently, and prayed alwaies so affectionately for the King and present Government, that his adver∣saries gave this testimony of him, (viz.) Though he be scrupulous in mat∣ter of Ceremony, yet he is a loyal subject unto the King, and a true Friend unto the State.

Beside the great good service which was now done in Salop, by his Ministry, and private conferences with Christians: in reference unto him many other Ministers had the more frequent recourse unto the town, (Master Pierson, Master Nicols, &c.) who were put upon preach∣ing once or oftner, before they departed thence, whereby knowledge was much increased, and the power of Godlinesse much cherished and promoted there. But Satan maligning those opportunities of service unto Christ,* 1.8 some envious ill-affected persons, (amongst whom Ma∣ster Peter Studley was the chief) were stirred up, to lay in complaints a∣gainst him as a Non-conformist: for such was his prudence, sweetnesse, and peaceablenesse of spirit, that other objections could not with any colour of truth be made against him. Hereupon Doctor Morton (then the Bishop of that Diocesse,) referred him unto two neighbour Mini∣sters for satisfaction; and in pursuance of this order, Master Herring gave in his scruples in writing, and also replyed upon their answer.

The consequence of this paper-dispute was a Certificate to the Bishop from the Ministers, that they believed Master Herring from conscien∣tious grounds, in his own apprehensions remained unsatisfied, and the Bishop himself told Master Herrings Friends, that he was satisfied in his integrity. But such were those times,* 1.9 that he was suspended from the use of his Ministry, though by mediation of Friends, the suspensi∣on was divers times taken off, and then brought on again by persons of contrary minds and waies. Thus he continued in Salop for the space of seventeen years, sometimes enjoying, and sometime wanting liber∣ty for the exercise of his Ministry in publique. But when the Pulpit door was shut against him, he was the more frequent in keeping pri∣vate Fasts, and in expounding the Scripture three times a day in his own Family; by which exercise some of the neighbours were edified also. Alwaies upon the Lords day, (whether he was at home or abroad) he frequented the Ordinances of God administred in publique, pro∣fessing thereby (as himself said) that his practice should declare his judgement against separation from the Congregations in England, though there were corruptions in them. When some seeds of seperation were scattered in Salop (by Daniel Chidley and his Wife,) their growth was check'd by his appearing against them. He had many bowels to∣wards them who were misled in this kind, as was expressed by the ma∣ny prayers with tears, which he poured forth before God in their be∣half. And having upon this occasion, studied that point the more throughly, he would often say, It is a sinne of an high nature,* 1.10 to un-Church a Nation at once, and that this would become the spring of many other fearfull errours; for separation will eat like a Gangrene into the heart of Godliness. And he did pray, that they who would un-Church others, might not be un-christianed themselves. When the Plague was in Salop, he gave himself unto prayer for the town, and in particular for the persons infected; and many from the Pest-houses returned thanks unto him, for the spiritual comfort received by his Prayers. He took great delight in his studies (having a very good Library) and was often willing to misse a meal, that he might the more satisfie himself in conversing with his Books. He was seldome hungry,* 1.11 (as himself was wont to say) while he was in his study, and those who best knew him, could easily render the reason thereof; for as he was afraid of doing Gods work negligently, so it was his meat and drink to converse with his God, and to do the will of his heavenly Father. And yet such were his compas∣sions towards afflicted consciences, that he gave charge unto his whole Family, to send none such away till they had spoken with him: yea, unto them, his manner was to give full liberty of speech, that they might not go away without some clearing and satisfaction. His experience, humi∣lity and sweetnesse of disposition was such, that seldome any one who was troubled in spirit, departed from him without some relief and com∣fort; whereto may be added his great faithfulnesse towards them in perplexed cases, who opened their hearts into his bosome for spiritual sa∣tisfaction.

When he was not allowed liberty to preach in publique at home, he was willing to bestow his pains abroad; and every where he in his Mi∣nistry proved himself a solid well-studied Divine, A Workman who needed not to be ashamed. It may truly be affirmed concerning him, that when he was in journeys, he imitated the Lord Christ his Master, Who went about doing good.* 1.12 For in the Families whither he came, (if there was not opportunity of more publique employment, wherein he might appear with safety in those Prelatical times,) he was alwaies ready by Prayer and Exposition of Scripture, to be serviceable unto the souls of such who desired to improve him. He was a man of an ingenuous and cheerfull spirit, yet very grave and inoffensive; yea, the lightsomeness of his behaviour being accompanied with holinesse and humility, did make his serious services the more acceptable, and more taking upon the hearts of those who conversed with him.

Amongst many other rare gifts, with which God had enriched him, this did shine forth brightly unto all them,* 1.13 who were acquainted with his way, in performing Family duties, whether in his own house, or elsewhere, (viz.) That he would alwaies most aptly and affectionately enlarge himself upon the Sermon lately heard, or the Chapter read, by con∣fession, complaint, petition, thansgiving, &c. unto the advantage of them, who joyned with him in that exercise. He was indeed a man made up of love and meeknesse, for the discovery whereof, take two instances, which will tell the Reader, that he was Dove-like, without gall. The one is this; Doctor Lambe having broken his legge by a fall, was brought into the same Inne in Norhamptonshire, where Master Herring had taken up his lodging, being in a journey; and that night he prayed very affectionately for him, though Doctor Lambe was a notorious violent Persecutor of Non-conformists, both Ministers and people; yea though he had been a bitter opposite against Master Herring particular∣ly. He being asked the reason why he expressed so much respect to∣wards so unworthy a man, returned this answer; The greater enemy he is to the Church, the more need he hath of Prayers. And then wished those who were with him, To prove themselves Christs Disciples by loving their enemies, and by praying for their Persecutors. The other in∣stance is this, (viz.) understanding that Arch-bishop Laud said unto some of his Friends (Petitioners for the liberty of his Ministry) I will pickle up that Herring of Shrewsbury; he used these words, If he will abuse his power, let it teach Christians the more to use their Prayers. And he then prayed, that the Non-conformists enemies might by observation, know that they have a good God to trust unto, when trampled upon by ill-de∣spised men.

* 1.14He was a constant mighty Wrestler with the Almighty in Prayers for England, that the Gospel might not be removed, but that the Kingdom of Christ, might be here advanced more and more. He much feared that bad times would overtake this Nation; and at a conference about the affairs of England, he used these words: Gods rod (I much fear) will be homebred Warre in the State, and Errours and Heresies

in the Church, with Gods visible departure from us.

When all hope of regaining the liberty of his Ministry in Shrewsbu∣ry was quite gone, and therefore his continuance there, in wany regards, was judged inexpedient; he removed with his Wife, and such of his Family, who were not disposed of elsewhere,* 1.15 unto Wrenbury in Che∣shire, where he sojourned with his Wives dear Sister Mistresse Nicolls, a godly woman, the Widdow of worthy Master Robert Nicolls, who had been very famous in those parts, both for his labours and great abi∣lities; of whom this true character may be given:* 1.16 He was a man who had a clear head, and a tender heart, who led an holy life, and abounded in the work of the Lord. Here Master Herring lived privately and comfort∣ably, under the Ministry of his good Friend Master William Peartree, doing what service he could by comforting afflicted consciences, and con∣firming the hearts of Gods people in the Faith of the Gospel, as oppor∣tunities were offered. Before any further progresse be made, in ma∣king known his call unto Amsterdam, here may seasonably be inserted, the description given by a Reverend Neighbour Minister, which is as followeth.

Whereas you desire my opinion in writing,* 1.17 concerning that Reve∣rend and Religious man of God, Master Herring deceased; The truth is, I fear my Pen may rather darken his Honour, then my Pensil can draw out his Character; yet as the Martyr counted it a great mercy to be cast into prison, if it were but to see the face of that blessed Angel of God, Master Bradford; so I have look't on it as no small happinesse, that the Lord in his Providence did cast me into these parts, to see the face, and hear the voice of Master Herring, that blessed Angel of a Church in Salop. And I blesse God, that I had some intimate acquain∣tance with him, and knew his Doctrine, manner of life, &c. as Timothy did Pauls, 2 Epist. 3.10. And I should wrong him, if I should with∣hold this just testimony. He was one of whom the world was not worthy, a Messenger, one of a thousand, a faithfull Minister of Jesus Christ; A Boanerges (a sonne of thunder) to brawny-hearted sinners; A Barnabas (a sonne of consolation) to broken-hearted sinners. As sweet a grace he had in Elocution, as ever I heard man in the Pulpit, whose gift of utterance did set a fair glosse on all his holy Sermons; Another Apollos, eloquent and mighty in the Scriptures; and you know the common saying, Bonus textualis bonus Theologus. His Sermons preached in the Congregation, were printed in his conversation; In Do∣ctrine, shewing incorruptness, gravity, sincerity, (for he was a pious and learned Divine) and in life, shewing himself a Pattern of good works; free from visible blame, (saving humane unavoidable infirmities,) none could say (justly) black was his eye. He was indued with an admi∣rable gift of Prayer, and was frequently imployed in daies of private humiliation, even then, when meetings in that kind were branded with the odious names of Conventicles; yet the perils (to which he ren∣dred himself obnoxious,) could not stave him off, from opening his window (with Daniel) toward Jerusalem. He was very fruitfull in

conference, discreet in carriage, and cheerfull and couragious in his suf∣ferings, of which this good old Non-conformist had his share. And when every door was barr'd, and no hope left to enjoy his publique li∣berty, he left the land of his Nativity, and (on a clear call) went into the Netherlands, where (after some years spent in the work of the Lord) this bright star did set, to the no little sorrow of his dear Christi∣an Friends, &c.

This faithfull Servant of Christ had many invitations into New-Eng∣land, but received not satisfaction in his spirit, to transplant himself thither.

* 1.18Afterwards in the latter end of the year 1636, he was propound∣ed by some friends unto Master Rulice, (who was sent from the Eng∣lish Reformed Church in Amsterdam unto London, to provide a Mini∣ster to succeed Master John Paget) as a man most meet to undertake that place. For the case there was this, (viz.) Master John Paget (whose works praise him in the gate) being through old age, rendred un∣able to uphold his wonted work in that Reformed Congregation, was eased of his Pastoral attendance there, (though the Lords of the City, accor∣ding to their commendable custom, continued his competent maintenance till his death,) therefore Master Rulice his Colleague, was employed to find out an Assistant.

* 1.19This motion made known to Master Herring, was the rather hearkened unto, because his suspension from preaching was a burthen to his active spirit, and he espied no ground of hope that he should ever be suffered by the Prelates to enjoy his much-desired liberty in England any more. Hereupon coming up to London, after much seeking of God, and serious consulting with godly Brethren, he was perswaded that this call came from God, and therefore might not be gain∣said.

Now having resolved (in the pursuance of this Providence) to leave England, amongst other difficulties to be encountred, he was much af∣fected with a double conflict, the one relating unto his Manuscripts, the other unto his near and much endeared Friends. He had many papers and letters (which he much prized) containing both the spiritual breathings of gracious hearts, and matters of great concernment: and those he durst not adventure to take with him (fearing a search,) nor yet did he judge it safe to leave them, because he knew not into what hands they might come; therefore upon advice he burnt many writings, though both then and afterwards he did with tears think of that Letter martyrdome,* 1.20 (for so he called it,) wherein many of the best thoughts of his dearest friends were committed to the flames. If this was so grie∣vous, then let the Reader guesse, with what grief of heart this thought was entertained, that now he must leave thousands of his precious Friends, without any hope of seeing their faces any more in the land of the living.

And truly his labours and his lovely conversation had gained him multitudes of Friends, in every Countrey and corner where he was

known; for no man was more generally and intirely affected, by all sorts, who feared God, then good Master Herring. Although it be not possible to give a particular account of the Gentry and Ministry, (most eminent for Religion) who highly prized and heartily loved him, yet the vertuous Lady Margaret Bromley, (who then dwelt at Sheriff Hales in Shropshire) deserves an honourable remembrance,* 1.21 be∣cause she was a constant and unparallel'd favourer of all good Ministers and People, being both tender-hearted and open-handed towards such who suffered under Prelatical pressures and otherwise; and at her house, the most famous Ministers in all neighbour Countries, had hearty welcomes, with manifold sweet opportunities of ser∣vice unto God, and of mutuall edification. Besides the frequent soul-helps which the Parishoners of the Congregation, to which she was related, had upon Sabbath daies for her sake; there were few Holy-daies, (daies of vacancy from worldy businesses,) in the year, wherein they had not one Sermon at least, preach∣ed by some able Minister of Jesus Christ, amongst whom, Ma∣ster Pierson, Master Ball, Master Herring, and Master Nicolls, (be∣fore mentioned, who died at this good Ladies house,) were of chief worth.

Oh! what pathetical Blessings, with Exhortations, Encouragements, and Prayers, did this worthy man of God bestow upon this, and the Families of other choice Friends, before he took his last farewell of his dear native Countrey! This Narrative would swell too big, if re∣port should be made of generals only in reference unto them, who were naturally, nearly related unto himself and his gracious Consort, besides such who were very dear unto them both, in the spirit of Jesus Christ. Some who beheld the last greetings betwixt him and Reverend Master Ball of Whitmore, professe that they stick too deep in their breasts to be forgotten: for after they had spent together well nigh one day and one night in conference, they did (like Jonathan and David) fre∣quently fall upon one another with mutual embracings, they parted and closed again a third and a fourth time, and when Master Herring was on horseback, and Master Ball on foot, they went together, often shaking hands over the hedges; and upon the finall salutation they comforted each other with this consideration, That though they should never see one another again on earth, yet they should meet in heaven. And Master Herring was so deeply affected with those passages, that he said to some of his company, Two or three more such partings would hinder my journey beyond Seas; and yet adding withall, Master Ball hath conque∣red my passions. In his passage out of England, he with warm affecti∣ons and heavenly benedictions, took his leave of his own and his Wives Sisters, with their Husbands, whose dwellings were in divers Coun∣tries. Those two eminently worthy Reverend Divines, Master Oliver Bowles of Sutton in Bedfordshire, and Master Barry of Cotsmore in Rutland, (who had married two of his Wives gracious Sisters) as they had Bro∣therly respect in his bosome, so they had special visits in his journey

towards Holland. He was necessitated secretly to take shipping at Yar∣mouth, (whither his Brother-in-law Master Bowles did accompany him,) because the then Arch-bishop had given order, that no Scholar nor Minister should passe, without License from the Councel-table. Now whereas in his journey he had often prayed, that God would yet fur∣ther clear his call into Holland, by two special Providences, viz. 1. That he might not be examined whether he was a Minister, (for he pro∣fessed that he durst not deny his holy calling.) 2. That God would strengthen him at Sea, and grant him a comfortable voyage. He had answers of singular grace returned in both.* 1.22 He landed at Rotterdam September 20. 1637. and went aside from company so soon as with conveni∣ency he could, to blesse the Lord for his safe arrival, and for all other favours vouchsafed unto him, who had never before been upon the Sea. The next day he went in a Waggon to Amsterdam, and was met on the way, by his dear Colleague, with the Elders and Deacons of the Church,* 1.23 and many of the English Merchants, who expressed much joy for his safe coming unto them. By them he was accompanied to the house of his good Friend, Master Whittaker, where he continued till his removal unto his own house, upon the coming over of his Family into Holland.

His first Sermon was upon Psal. 24.1. The earth is the Lords, &c. wherein he much insisted upon this consideration,* 1.24 That Gods Children still tread upon their Fathers ground, whithersoever his Providence doth remove them; and he preached with such satisfaction unto the hearts of his hearers, that thereby way was made for his future acceptance and ser∣vice. The week following he was presented first unto the Honourable Lords, the Magistrates of Amsterdam, (who kindly accepted him, and gave him a gratuity towards the charges of his journey,) and after∣wards to the Reverend Classis, where he was lovingly received into that Society, and thanks were given unto God for bringing him safe unto them. Whereas it was his custom to pray every night before he went into his bed, the night before a fasting day, (appointed by the States, to seek direction in their Counsels, and successe upon their Armies now before Breda) he spake thus to his Son who attended him, My heart is more fit for a thansgiving day, and it would be so unto me, if God would bring over my dearest Christian (for that was his Wives name) thy tender Mother with her company. Come let us pray for them. And the next morning when he was ready to go to the Congregation, he heard that his dear Wife was come unto Amsterdam, by which Provi∣dence his spirit being raised unto holy astonishment and admiration, he uttered these words;* 1.25 Oh what a God do I serve! How exceeding mercifull is my God unto me? What his prudent and pious coversation was, and what high estimation he had in Amsterdam, may be understood by the testi∣mony of Master Rulice, written by his own hand, March 2. 1650. which is as followeth.

How acceptable and dear Master Herring, (my once Reverend Col∣league) was to us all, Church, Classis, Magistrates, yea to all who knew

him, it is publiquely known. How faithfully he employed those excellent gifts, which God in a large measure bestowed upon him, in publique, in private, in his Sermons, in his Advices, in Consistory and Classes, &c. what need I mention, for all well know. For his private conversation, what sweetnesse and inoffensiveness, yea exemplary godlinesse did not he shew upon all occasions.

His sicknesse was lingering, his death like a sleep. As in his life, so in his sicknesse, and to his last breath; he shewed that his heart was truly stored with patience, faith, love to God and his People, heavenly-minded∣nesse, zeal to the honour of God, and with intire love to his Wife and Chil∣dren.

But I must break off; I hope that Reverend man, who undertakes to publish the life and death of my most dear Brother and Colleague, will so set it out, that it may be a spurre to provoke the living to follow such a worthy Pattern, and be a means of quickning many, not only to walk faithfully in the way to heaven, but also in that great function of the Ministry. Thus farre Mr. Rulice.

The strangenesse of Independent Brethren of England,* 1.26 when they came over into Holland, was a great trouble unto this reall Saint: and his constant Prayers were, that they might neither be deceived them∣selves, nor do any hurt unto the Government of the Reformed Church∣es. He often said, that those men had need of much caution, because the devil in the times of purest Reformation, would be a more subtill An∣gel of light then he was in Luthers daies.

When his Son returned into England, he warned him to take heed of joyning with any part, against the Presbyterial Government of the Reformed Churches; For I am sure (said he) it is the Government of Jesus Christ.

When the Scots first came into England, it was his constant and af∣fectionate Prayer, that they might be instruments of much good, but of no blood nor division between the two Nations.

He was one of Gods special Remembrancers, in behalf of England, begging fervently that the Lords and Commons in Parliament, might be preserved from the two destructive rocks of pride and self-interests. He poured out his soul before the Almighty, that he would appear for the Non-conformists cause in England, and set up the Presbyterial Go∣vernment according to the Scripture Rules. He often professed him∣self to be no enemy unto the Persons of Bishops, but an opposite to their Pride and Prelaticall Rule. When news came unto him of the Battell at Edge-hill, thus he spake with tears: Oh Lord, wilt thou write Englands Reformation in red Letters of her own blood; yet preserve thine own People, and maintain thine own cause for Jesus Christ sake. He greatly bewailed the obstructing of Church reformation in England by them, who professed themselves zealous for Reformation, and it was no small offence unto him, to hear of the Letters which came from some Independents at London into Holland, wherein falshoods were reported, to the reproach of some Presbyterians, his

known, godly Friends in England. He was a true Nathaniel indeed, in whose spirit there was no guile; and therefore all falshood and un∣worthy juglings were an abomination to his heart. There was an holy harmoniousnesse in his whole conversation; his life was a well-spun thread, from the beginning to the end, and tended much to the honour of his Profession and particular Calling. Although he walked exactly with God, and maintained the comfort of constant peace with him, yet Satan was suffered to give him one furious assault the night before he died, as was perceived by those who were then with him; for rising upon his knees, with his hands lifted up, he spake these words: He is overcome, overcome, through the strength of my Lord and only Saviour Jesus, unto whom I am now going to keep a Sabbath in glory.* 1.27 And next morning, March 28. 1644. being the Sabbath day, (about the time when he was wont to go unto ministerial work in the publique Congrega∣gation,) and the sixty two year of his life, he was taken from his labours into rest, unto the spirits of just men made perfect in Hea∣ven, where he shall sing Hallelujahs for evermore.

Notes

• * 1.1

  His Birth.
• * 1.2

  His education.
• * 1.3

  His love of the Scriptures.
• * 1.4

  His remove to Cambridge.
• * 1.5

  His call to Cawk.
• * 1.6

  The educati∣on of her chil∣dren.
• * 1.7

  His call to Shrewsbury.
• * 1.8

  Satans malice.
• * 1.9

  His suspensi∣on.
• * 1.10

  His judgment against separa∣tion.
• * 1.11

  His studious∣nesse.
• * 1.12

  His painful∣nesse.
• * 1.13

  His humility, and charity.
• * 1.14

  His servent Prayers.
• * 1.15

  His remove to Wrenbury.
• * 1.16

  A character of Mr. Nicholls.
• * 1.17

  Mr. Herrings character.
• * 1.18

  His call to Amsterdam.
• * 1.19

  The reason of his remove.
• * 1.20

  His Letter martyrdome.
• * 1.21

  The Lady Bromleys love to Christs Ministers.
• * 1.22

  His arrival in Holland.
• * 1.23

  His entertain∣ment there.
• * 1.24

  His first Ser∣mon.
• * 1.25

  Return of prayers.
• * 1.26

  His fear of Independency
• * 1.27

  His death.