A collection of several treatises concerning the reasons and occasions of the penal laws

Important Considerations

Which ought to move all true and sound Catholicks, who are not wholly Jesuited, to acknowledge without all Equivocations, Am∣biguities, or Shiftings, that the Proceedings of her Majesty, and of the State with them, since the beginning of her Highness Reign, have been both mild and merciful.

RIght Worshipful and our dear Friends. We your ancient Teachers and spiritu∣al Fathers, the secular Priests in Eng∣land, that sundry years for your sakes, have endured many calamities, but can∣not frame our selves to the new Jesuitical Faction, that beareth so great a sway with you: are every where amongst you accounted simple persons: men destitute of the Spirit of Government: without all Policy and Providence, ignorant Pilots, how to cast about with our Ships in sudden gusts or storms: not trained up in the managing of great Affairs, and far unmeet (God wot) to take upon us the guiding of Souls. All which disgraces, in the sense they are imputed unto us, we take in good part, whether they proceed from your selves, or from your Spanish Statists, that can work won∣ders,

or from you both: and we must acknow∣ledge, that if their courses, either formerly taken, or still intended for the re-establishing of the Ca∣tholick Faith in this Kingdom, be good, ours do come far short of that pitch: and well you may think, as already you have (in your wisdoms) cen∣sured our weakness, and judged of us. Howbeit, as yet by your good patience, we must be bold to rejoyce in our simplicity, and to confess in direct terms, and so tell you plainly, and wish you all to mark it well: that, posteriores cogitationes solent esse sapientiores. Experience is said to be the Mi∣stress of Fools: but she is no foolish Mistress. The Jesuitical Plots for the restoring of Religion in this Land, by Treasons or Invasions, are not sanctified or blessed by the hand of God. Some of us the ancienter sort of Priests, have ever misliked their courses herein: and many other we know are of the same Judgment. The old approved paths of our Forefathers, (when men have beaten their brains to the uttermost) will always prove the best. Novelties and fine devices of busie and unquiet heads, are, but as May-flowers that are gone in June; they may carry a fair shew, but they will not continue. The ancient manner of planting the Catholick Faith, hath been by Preaching, Pray∣ers, private Instructions, Confessions, Absolutions, and by the exercising of other Priestly Functions, given ad aedificationem non ad destructionem, to teach Obedience, not Rebellion: to fill mens hearts with joy and peace, by the inward working of the Holy Ghost; and not to feed them with hopes of Invasions and Treacheries, with the Moon-shine in

the water, and follies, or with preposterous cogi∣tations, to think they may expect for figs from thi∣stles, or that men may do evil, that good may come of it. As simple Priests as you esteem us, yet this we tell you, that we are not ignorant of the Ma∣chiavilian Rules, which your Rabbies practise: nor of their Wild-geese Races, wherein they have run themselves out of all honest breath. But we know them, not to embrace them (we thank God) but to disclose them, or rather to acknowledge them for wicked (being disclosed too apparently alrea∣dy to our hands:) that you in time might eschew them, (if you will be advised by us) and all the World at the length may bear us witness, how much we detest them from our hearts, and abhor them. Whilst we had any hope, that these Poli∣tical Fathers (as they joy to be termed) would at the last have reclaimed themselves, and grown more tractable and moderate in their designments against our Soveraign and Native Country: we were silent in respect of the common Cause, and very well content to undergo many inconveniences and miseries, which we might have avoided (as we are perswaded) if we had sooner opened our selves, and professed our said detestation of such their, no way Priestly, but very irreligious courses: whereby the State hath been most justly irritated and provoked against us. For when we consider on the one side, what we know our selves, concer∣ning the Laws made of later years, with the occa∣sions of them, and likewise as touching the pro∣ceedings of the State here, since the beginning of her Majesties Reign, as well against us that are

Priests, as also against other Catholicks of the Lai∣ty: and do find on the other side, what practices, under the pretence of Religion, have been set on foot, for the utter subversion both of the Queen and of her Kingdom: and therewith further call to mind, what sundry Jesuits and men (wholly for the time or altogether) addicted to Jesuitism, have written and published to the World in sundry Treatises, not only against the said Laws and course of Justice, but in like sort against her chief Coun∣sellors, (and which exceedeth all the rest) against the Royal person of her Majesty, her Honour, Crown, and most Princely Scepter: it may in our opinions be rather wondred, that so many Catho∣licks of both sorts, are left alive in the Realm to speak of the Catholick Faith, than that the State hath proceeded with us from time to time, as it hath done. It may seem strange to some, that these things should proceed from us that are Priests: but divers of you can bear us witness, that they are no new conceits, bred in us, by reason of the opposi∣tion we have with the Jesuits: and besides, no small number of Catholicks (as we are perswaded) have long expected this duty at your hands: that thereby our Allegiance and Fidelity to our Queen and Country might be the better testified, the hard opinion of us mitigated, our actions and profession of duty better credited: the cause we stand for, more regarded: and we our selves (for our plain dealing, and for the good of the Church) might be the better reputed of, and esteemed, or at the least in some sort born with and tolerated, as men that do distinguish between Religion and Treason.

We wish with all our hearts, (and groan every day at the contrary) that her Majesty had continu∣ed in her obedience to the See Apostolick, as Queen Mary her Sister of famous memory, had left her a worthy Example: but seeing that God for our sins would have it otherwise, we ought to have carri∣ed our selves in another manner of course towards her, our true and lawful Queen, and towards our Country, than hath been taken and pursued by many Catholicks, but especially by the Jesuits. And therefore (as well to discharge our own con∣sciences, as to satisfie many of you of the modera∣ter sort of Catholicks, according to the old saying, Better late than never) we have thought it our parts, (being her Highness natural born Subjects) to acknowledge the truth of the carriage of mat∣ters against us, and the apparent causes of it: that the blame may indeed, from point to point, light and lie where it ought to do, and both sides bear no other than their own burthens, as the Laws both of God and man do require. If hereby her Ma∣jesty may in any sort be appeased, and the State satisfied, our own former courses bettered, and the Realm secured, that the like shall never hereafter be attempted or favoured by any of us, but be re∣vealed, if we know them, and withstood, if they be enterprised, with all our goods and our lives, even to our uttermost ability, be their pretences never so fair, for Religion, or what else can be de∣vised: we shall think our selves happy, and will not regard what all the malice and spite of the Jesuits can work or effect against us.

It cannot be denied, but that for the first ten years of her Majesties Reign, the state of Catho∣licks in England was tolerable, and after a sort in some good quietness. Such as for their conscien∣ces were imprisoned in the beginning of her coming to the Crown, were very kindly and mercifully used, the state of things then considered. Some of them were appointed to remain with such their friends, as they themselves made choice of. Others were placed, some with Bishops; some with Deans; and had their diet at their Tables, with such con∣venient Lodgings and Walks for their recreation, as did well content them. They that were in the ordinary Prisons, had such liberty and other com∣modities, as the places would afford, not inconve∣nient for men that were in their cases. But that our Brethren of the more fiery and Jesuitical hu∣mour may not snuff hereat: we have thought it meet to cool their heat, with some of Master Par∣sons, and his Fellow Master Creswels more gentle delays, (than are usual with them:) who in one of their Books, do confess as much in effect, as here we have set down, if not more: thus these great Emperour-like Jesuits do speak to her Majesty. In the beginning of thy Kingdom thou didst deal som∣thing more gently with Catholicks: none were then urged by thee, or pressed either to thy Sect, or to the denial of their Faith. All things (indeed) did seem to proceed in a far milder course: no great complaints were heard of: there were seen no ex∣traordinary contentions or repugnancies: Some there were that to please and gratifie you, went to

your Churches. But when afterwards thou didst begin to wrong them, &c. And when was that our great Monseigneurs? Surely whensoever it was: (to answer for you) we our selves (certain Catholicks of all sorts) were the true causes of it. For whilst her Majesty and the State dealt with the Catho∣licks, as you have heard, (which was full eleven years, no one Catholick being called in question of his life, for his conscience, all that time:) con∣sider with us, how some of our profession proceed∣ed with them. Her Highness had scarcely felt the Crown warm upon her head, but it was challenged from her, by some of her Neighbours, as Master Saunders noteth. The French were sent into Scot∣land to do somewhat, you may be sure: which concerned her Majesty (the circumstances consi∣sidered) to look unto. Afterwards certain matters were undertaken by her Majesty in France: and the Affairs in Scotland did so proceed, as that the Queen there was compelled 1567. to flie into Eng∣land, where for a great time, she was very honou∣rably entertained, her liberty only excepted. But with these matters, what had we to do, that were either Priests or private men? If either France or Scotland, had cause to repine or complain, some of those Nations might have done, written, and spoken as it had pleased them. It little became either Master Saunders (otherwise an excellent man) or Master Parsons, or any other of our own Nation, to have intermedled with those matters, or to write as they have very offensively done in divers of their Books and Treatises; to what pur∣pose we know not: except it were to shew their

malice, to dishonour their own Country, as much as lay in them, and to move a greater dislike in the State of all that be Catholicks, than before they had. Kings ever have had, and will have their plots and practices for their own safeties: it being as inconvenient to their Policy, for one Prince by his Might to over-top another, as it is amongst the principal members of our natural bodies, for one member to swell or grow too great above his due proportion. Happy had we Catholicks been at this day, if these men being Priests, had never troubled themselves with State-matters, which they have managed, as Phaeton did his Fathers Chariot: very greatly to our prejudice. Let them pretend never so great skill in their disposing of Kingdoms ordine ad Deum: they have certainly dealt with ours ordine ad Gehennam.

But this is not all which the State may justly challenge us for. In the time of our said Peace, and upon the coming into England of the Queen of Scots, whilst her Majesty of England and the State were busied, as partly you have heard before: it pitieth our hearts, to see and read, what hath been printed and published out of Italy in the life of Pius Quintus concerning his Holiness endeavors, stirred up by false suggestions to joyn with the King of Spain: for the utter ruine and overthrow both of our Prince and Country. Would to God such things had never been enterprised: and most of all, that they had never been printed. We that have some skill with our Pens, presume too much a great deal, upon our own Wits. What good

the mentioning of these points can bring to the Church, we see not: but sure we are, it hath done much hurt, and given our common Enemies very great advantage against us. For now it is usually objected unto us, by every one of any reach, when we complain of some hard dealings towards us: Yea, say they (very well good Masters) were you not in quiet? Who then gave the cause that you were troubled? When her Majesty used you kindly: how treacherously was she dealt with by you? Did not Pius Quintus practise her Majesties subversion: she (good Lady) never dreaming of any such mis∣chief? Was not one Robert Ridolphi, a Gentleman of Florence sent hither by the Pope (under colour of Merchandize) to sollicite a Rebellion? Did not Pius Quintus move the King of Spain to joyn in this Exploit, for the better securing of his own Do∣minions in the Low Countries? Was not the Bull denounced against her Majesty, that carrieth so fair a Preface of zeal, and pastoral duty: devised purposely, to further the intended Rebellion, for the depriving of her Majesty from her Kingdom? Had not the Pope and King of Spain assigned the Duke of Norfolk, to be the Head of this Rebelli∣on? Did not the Pope▪ give order to Ridolphi, to take 150000 Crowns to set forward this attempt? Was not some of that Money sent for Scotland: and some delivered to the said Duke? Did not King Philip at the Popes instance, determine to send the Duke of Alva into England with all his Forces in the Low Countries, to assist the Duke of Nor∣folk? Are all these things true, and were they not then in hand, whilst her Majesty dealt so merciful∣ly

with you? How can you excuse these design∣ments: so unchristian, so unpriestly, so treache∣rous, and therefore so un-prince-like? When we first heard these particulars, we did not believe them: but would have laid our lives they had been false: but when we saw the Book, and found them there, God is our witness, we were much amazed: and can say no more, but that his Holi∣ness was misinformed, and indirectly drawn to these courses.

But to proceed: it being unknown to the State what secret matters were in hand against them, both at home and beyond the Seas: the Catho∣licks here continued in sort, as before you have heard, till the said Rebellion brake forth in the North, 1569. a little before Christmas: and that it was known that the Pope had excommunicated the Queen, and thereby freed her Subjects (as the Bull importeth) from their subjection. And then there followed a great restraint of the said Priso∣ners: but none of them were put to death upon that occasion: the Sword being then only drawn against such Catholicks, as had risen up actually into open Rebellion. Wherein we cannot see what her Majesty did, that any Prince in Christen∣dom in such a case, would not have done. And as touching the said Bull, many both Priests and Lay Catholicks have greatly wished, that it had never been decreed, denounced, published, or heard of. For we are perswaded, that the Pope was drawn thereunto, by false suggestions of certain undis∣creet turbulent persons: who pretending to him

one thing, had another drift in their heads for their own advancement. And therefore we have ever accounted of it, as a sentence procured by sur∣reption: knowing it to be no unusual thing with the Pope, through indirect means and factious heads, to be often deceived in matters of Fact: as we now find it, in the setting up of our new Arch-Priest.

Now upon all these occasions, her Majesty be∣ing moved with great displeasure, called a Parlia∣ment in the thirteenth year of her Reign 1571. wherein a Law was made containing many bran∣ches, against the bringing into this Land, after that time, of any Bulls from Rome, any Agnus Dei, Cros∣ses or Pardons: and against all manner of persons, that should procure them to be so brought hither, with many other particularities thereunto apper∣taining. Which Law, although we hold it to be too rigorous, and that the pretended remedy ex∣ceeded the measure of the offence, either unduti∣fully given, or in justice to have been taken: yet we cannot but confess, as reasonable men, that the State had great cause to make some Laws against us, except they should have shewed themselves careless for the continuance of it. But be the Law, as any would have it never so extreme: yet surely it must be granted, that the occasions of it were most outragious: and likewise, that the execution of it was not so tragical, as many since have writ∣ten and reported of it. For whatsoever was done against us, either upon the pretence of that Law, or of any other, would never we think have been

attempted, had not divers other preposterous oc∣casions (besides the causes of that Law) daily fallen out amongst us: which procured matters to be ur∣ged more severely against us.

In the year 1572. out cometh Master Saunders Book, de visibili Monarchia; wherein he taketh upon him to set down, how the Pope had sent one Master Morton and Master Web two Priests, before the said Rebellion, to the Lords and Gentlemen in the North: to excite them with their Followers to take up Arms. And the rather to perswade them thereunto, they signified unto them by the Popes commandment, that her Majesty was excom∣municated, her Subjects were released from their obedience, and much more to that purpose. Like∣wise the said Mr. Saunders doth justifie the said commotion, and ascribeth the evil success it had, to the over-late publishing of the said Bull (it be∣ing not generally known of till the year after, when Master Felton had set it upon the Bishop of Lon∣dons Gate:) affirming that if it had been publish∣ed the year before, or when they were in Arms, the Catholicks would undoubtedly so have assisted them (the said Rebels) as that they must (no que∣stion of it) have prevailed against the Queen, and had certainly executed the said sentence at that time, for her deposition from the Crown. Besides, whereas the State in the said Parliament, had con∣firmed the attainder of the chief persons by name, that were as heads in the said Rebellion: and had been in the field against her Highness, Mr. Saunders (building Castles in the Air amongst his Books)

doth too much magnifie the said Rebels, to the great discredit of the Church of Rome, and his Ho∣liness actions in such matters, they being men ar∣raigned, condemned, and executed by the ancient Laws of our Country for high Treason. This in∣tolerable and very uncatholick course thus held by divers, to the great offence of many good Catho∣licks of the graver and discreeter sort, and to the great hinderance of our common Cause; hath been since followed by Mr. Parsons, and some of his sort, with no good discretion or foresight (God he knoweth) brag these great States-men of their im∣pregnable Wisdom and Policy never so proudly.

Furthermore, about the coming out of the said Book of Mr. Saunders, the whole Plot before men∣tioned, of the Pope and the King of Spain with the Duke of Norfolk for the disinheriting of her Maje∣sty, and other intended mischiefs, fell out to be ful∣ly disclosed. Afterwards within some four or five years, it was also commonly known to the Realm, what attempts were in hand by Mr. Stukeley (as∣sisted with Mr. Saunders and other Catholicks both English, Irish, and Italian) for an Enterprise by force in Ireland, under pretence to advance the Catholick Religion: which for that time (through some defects) succeeding not, the Pope himself in the year 1579. (abused still by false pretences) did set forward that course, and sending thither certain Forces, Mr. Saunders (too much Jesuited) did thrust himself in person into that action, as a chief Ring-leader, and to perswade the Catholicks, when he should come into Ireland, to joyn with

the Popes said Forces, for the better assisting of certain Rebels, then in Arms against their Sove∣raign. Now whilst these practices were in hand in Ireland, Gregory the Thirteenth reneweth the said Bull of Pius Quintus: and denounceth her Majesty to be excommunicated, with intimation of all other particulars in the former Bull mentioned, which was procured (we doubt not) by surrepti∣on: the false Jesuits (our Country-men) daring to attempt any thing, by untrue suggestions, and any lewd surmises, that may serve their turns. This Stratagem accomplished, and ground laid, where∣upon they imagined to work great matters: these good Fathers (as the Devil would have it) come into England, and intruded themselves into our harvest, being the men in our consciences (we mean both them and others of that Society, with some of their adherents) who have been the chief Instruments of all the mischiefs that have been in∣tended against her Majesty, since the beginning of her Reign, and of the miseries, which we, or any other Catholicks, have upon these occasions su∣stained. Their first repair hither was Anno 1580. when the Realm of Ireland was in great combusti∣on, and then they entred, (viz. Mr. Campion the Subject, and Mr. Parsons the Provincial) like a tempest, with sundry such great brags and chal∣lenges, as divers of the gravest Clergy then living in England (Doctor Watson Bishop of Lincoln and others) did greatly dislike them, and plainly fore∣told, that (as things then stood) their proceeding after that fashion, would certainly urge the State, to make some sharper Laws, which should not only

touch them, but likewise all others, both Priests and Catholicks. Upon their arrival, and after the said brags, Mr. Parsons presently fell to his Jesuiti∣cal courses: and so belaboured both himself and others in matters of State, how he might set her Majesties Crown upon another head (as appeareth by a Letter of his own to a certain Earl) that the Catholicks themselves threatned to deliver him into the hands of the Civil Magistrate, except he desisted from such kind of practices.

In these tumultuous and rebellious proceedings by sundry Catholicks, both in England and Ire∣land, it could not be expected but that the Queen and the State would be greatly incensed with in∣dignation against us. We had (some of us) great∣ly approved the said Rebellion: highly extolled the Rebels, and pitifully bewailed their ruine and overthrow. Many of our affections were knit to the Spaniard: and for our obedience to the Pope, we all do profess it. The attempts both of the Pope and Spaniard failing in England, his Holiness, as a temporal Prince, displayed his Banner in Ire∣land. The Plot was to deprive her Highness first from that Kingdom (if they could:) and then by degrees to depose her from this. In all these Plots none were more forward, than many of us that were Priests. The Laity, if we had opposed our selves to these designments, would (out of doubt) have been over-ruled by us. How many men of our calling were addicted to these courses, the State knew not. In which case (the premises dis∣creetly considered) there is no King, or Prince in

the World, disgusting the See of Rome, and having either force or metal in him, that would have en∣dured us, if possibly he could have been revenged, but rather (as we think) have utterly rooted us out of his Territories, as Traiters and Rebels both to him and his Country. And therefore we may rejoyce unfeignedly, that God hath blessed this Kingdom with so gracious and merciful a Sove∣raign, who hath not dealt in this sort with us. As∣suredly if she were a Catholick, she might be ac∣counted the Mirror of the World: but as she is, both we and all other Catholicks her natural Sub∣jects, deserve no longer to live, than we hereafter shall honour her from our hearts, obey her in all things (so far as possibly we may) pray for her prosperous Reign and long life: and to our pow∣ers defend and protect both her and our Country against any whatsoever, that shall by force of Arms attempt to damnifie either of them. For in the said Garboils, and very undutiful proceedings, how hath her Highness dealt with us? From the time of the said Rebellion and Parliament, there were few above twelve, that in ten years had been exe∣cuted for their consciences (as we hold, although our Adversaries say for Treason:) and of those twelve some perhaps can hardly be drawn within our account, having been tainted with matters of Rebellion. The most of the said number were Se∣minary Priests, who if they had come over into England with the like intents, that some others have done, might very worthily have been used as they were. But in our consciences, nay some of us do know it, that they were far from those

seditious humors: being men that intended no∣thing else but simply the good of our Country, and the conversion of Souls. Marry to say the truth, as we have confessed before, how could either her Majesty or the State know so much? They had great cause, as Politick persons, to suspect the worst.

Besides to the further honour of her Majesty we may not omit, that the States of the whole Realm assembled in Parliament Anno 1576. were pleased to pass us over, and made no Laws at that time against us. The ancient Prisoners that had been restrained more narrowly in the year 1570. were (notwithstanding the said enterprises in Ireland) again restored to their former liberty, to continue with their friends as they had done before. Such as were not suspected to have been dealers or abettors in the said treasonable actions, were used with that humanity, which could well be expect∣ed. But when the Jesuits were come, and that the State had notice of the said Excommunication, there was then within a while a great alteration. For such were the Jesuits proceedings, and with so great boldness, as though all had been theirs, and that the State should presently have been chan∣ged.

Her Majesty had seen what followed in her Kingdom upon the first Excommunication: and was therefore in all worldly Policy to prevent the like by the second. The jealousie also of the State was much increased by Mr. Sherwins answers upon

his examination, above eight months before the apprehension of Mr. Campion. For being asked, whether the Queen was his lawful Soveraign, not∣withstanding any sentence of the Popes, he prayed that no such question might be demanded of him, and would not further thereunto answer. Two or three other questions much to the same effect, were likewise propounded unto him, which he al∣so refused to answer. Matters now sorting on this, fashion, there was a greater restraint of Catholicks, than at any time before. Many both Priests and Gentlemen were sent into the Isle of Ely and other places, there to be more safely kept and looked unto. In January following 1581. (according to the general computation,) a Proclamation was made for the calling home of her Majesties Sub∣jects beyond the Seas: (such especially as were trained up in the Seminaries) pretending that they learned little there, but disloyalty: and that none after that time should harbor or relieve them, with sundry other points of very hard intendment to∣wards us. The same month also a Parliament en∣sued, wherein a Law was made agreeable in effect to the said Proclamation, but with a more severe punishment annexed. For it was a penalty of death, for any Jesuit or Seminary Priest to repair into England, and for any to receive and entertain them, which fell out according to Bishop Watsons former speeches or prediction, what inischief the Jesuits would bring upon us. We could here as well as some others have done, shew our dislike with some bitterness of the said Law and penalty. But to what purpose should we do so? It had been

a good point of wisdom in two or three persons, that have taken that course, to have been silent: and rather have sought by gentleness and sweet carriage of themselves to have prevented the more sharp execution of that Law, than by exclaiming against it when it was too late, to have provoked the State to a greater severity against us. And to confess something to our own disadvantage, and to excuse the said Parliament: if all the Seminary Priests then in England, or which should after that time have come hither, had been of Mr. Mortons and Mr. Saunders mind before mentioned (when the first Excommunication came out,) or of Mr. Saunders his second resolution, (being then in Arms against her Majesty in Ireland:) or of Mr. Parsons traiterous disposition, both to our Queen and Country: the said Law (no doubt) had car∣ried with it a far greater shew of Justice. But that was the error of the State: and yet not alto∣gether (for ought they knew) improbable, those times being so full of many dangerous designments and Jesuitical practices.

In this year also, divers other things fell out un∣happily towards us poor Priests, and other the graver sort of Catholicks, who had all of us single hearts, and disliked (no men more) of all such fa∣ctious enterprises. For notwithstanding the said Proclamation and Law, Mr. Heywood a Jesuit came then into England, and took so much upon him, that Father Parsons fell out exceedingly with him: and great troubles grew amongst Catholicks, by their brablings and quarrels. A Synod was held

by him the said Mr. Heywood, and sundry ancient Customs were therein abrogated, to the offence of very many. These courses being understood (after a sort) by the State: the Catholicks and Priests in Norfolk felt the smart of it. This Sum∣mer also in July, Mr. Campion and other Priests were apprehended: whose answers upon their ex∣aminations, agreeing in effect with Mr. Sherwins before mentioned, did greatly incense the State. For amongst other questions that were propound∣ed unto them, this being one, viz. If the Pope do by his Bull or Sentence pronounce her Majesty to be deprived, and no lawful Queen, and her Sub∣jects to be discharged of their allegiance and obe∣dience unto her; and after, the Pope or any o∣ther by his appointment and authority do invade this Realm: which part would you take, or which part ought a good Subject of England to take? some answered, that when the case should happen, they would then take counsel, what were best for them to do: Another, that when that case should happen he would answer, and not before: Another, that for the present, he was not resolved what to do in such a case: Another, that when the case happeneth, then he will answer: Another, that if such deprivation and invasion should be made for any matter of his faith, he thinketh he were then bound to take part with the Pope.

Now, what King in the world, being in doubt to be invaded by his enemies, and fearing that some of his own Subjects were by indirect means drawn, rather to adhere unto them than to himself: would

not make the best tryal of them he could for his better satisfaction, whom he might trust to? In which tryal, if he found any, that either should make doubtful answers, or peremptorily affirm, that (as the case stood betwixt him and his ene∣mies) they would leave him their Prince and take part with them: might he not justly repute them for Traitors, and deal with them accordingly? Sure we are, that no King or Prince in Christendom, would like or tolerate any such Subjects within their Dominions, if possibly they could be rid of them.

The duty we owe to our Soveraigns, doth not consist in taciturnity or keeping close within our selves such Allegiance as we think sufficient to afford them: but we are (especially when we are required thereunto) to make open profession of it, that we may appear unto them to be such Sub∣jects as we ought to be, and as they may rely up∣on, if either their Kingdoms or safeties be in ha∣zard or danger. And we greatly marvel, that a∣ny Jesuits should be so hard laced (concerning the performance of their duties, towards the Fa∣thers and Kings of those Countries where they were born, and whose Vassals they are) conside∣ring unto what obedience they tye themselves toward their own general, provincial, and other Governors: unto whom they were no way tied, but by their own consents, and for that it hath pleased them voluntarily to submit themselves un∣to them. If a quarrel should fall out, for exam∣ple, betwixt the Jesuits and the Dominicans, it would seem a very strange matter to the Provin∣cial

or General of that Society, to be driven to be demanded of a Jesuit, which part he would take. But therewith we have not to intermed∣dle: only we wish, that whilst they look for so great subjection at those mens hands that be under them, they do not forget their own Allegiance towards their Soveraigns: or at the least so de∣mean themselves as we poor men (every way their equals, and as sound Catholicks as themselves, that we go no further) may not be brought into hatred with her Majesty, unto whom we profess all duty and true allegiance: let other men quali∣fie the same as they list.

About the time of the overthrow of the Popes Forces in Ireland: his Holiness (by the false in∣stigations of the Jesuits) plotted with the King of Spain, for the assistance of the Duke of Guise, to enterprise upon the sudden, a very desperate de∣signment against her Majesty: and for the delive∣ry and advancement to the Crown of the Queen of Scotland. For the better effecting whereof, Men∣doza the Jesuit and Ledger for the King of Spain in England, set on work (a worthy Gentleman otherwise) one Mr. Francis Throckmorton and di∣vers others. And whilst the same was in contri∣ving (as afterwards Mr. Throckmorton himself confessed 1584.) the said Jesuitical humor had so possessed the hearts of sundry Catholicks, as we do unfeignedly rue in our hearts the remembrance of it, and are greatly ashamed that any person so intituled, should ever have been so extremely be∣witched. Two Gentlemen about that time also,

viz. Anno 1583. Mr. Arden and Mr. Somervile were convicted by the Laws of the Realm, to have purposed and contrived how they might have laid violent hands upon her Majesties sacred person. Mr. Somerviles confession therein, was so notori∣ous, as it may not be either qualified or denied. And Doctor Parry the very same year, was plot∣ting with Jesuits beyond the Seas, how he might have effected the like villany. How the worthy Earl of Northumberland, was about this time brought into the said Plot of the Duke of Guise (then still in hand) we will pretermit. Mr. Par∣sons that was an Actor in it, could tell the story very roundly at Rome: It wrought the noble Earls overthrow 1585. which may justly be ascribed to the Jesuitical practices of the Jesuit Mendoza and others of that crew. Hereunto we might add the notable Treasons of Mr. Anthony Babington and his Complices in the year 1586. which were so apparent, as we were greatly abashed at the shame∣less boldness of a young Jesuit, who to excuse the said Traiters, and qualifie their offences, presumed in a kind of supplication to her Majesty, to ascribe the plotting of all that mischief to Mr. Secretary Walsingham. The treachery also of Sir William Standley the year following 1587. in falsifying his faith to her Majesty, and in betraying the trust committed unto him by the Earl of Leicester, who had given him the honourable Title of Knight∣hood: as it was greatly prejudicial to us, that were Catholicks, at home, so was the defence of that disloyalty (made by a worthy man, but by the perswasions (as they think) of Parsons) greatly

disliked of many both wise and learned. And e∣specially it was wondred at a while (until the drift thereof appeared more manifestly in the year 1588.) that the said worthy person by the said lewd Jesuits, laid down this for a ground, in justi∣fying of the said Standley: viz. That in all Wars, which may happen for Religion, every Catholick man is bound in conscience to imploy his person and forces by the Popes direction: viz. How far, when, and where, either at home or abroad, he may and must break with his temporal Soveraign. These things we would not have touched, had they not been known in effect to this part of the World: and that we thought it our duties to shew our own dislike of them: and to clear her Majesty (so far as we may) from such imputations of more than barbarous cruelty towards us, as the Jesuits in their writings, have cast by heaps upon her: they themselves (as we still think in our consciences and before God) having been from time to time the very causes of all the calamities, which any of us have endured in England since her Majesties reign. Which we do not write, simply to excuse her Highness, although we must confess, we can be contented to endure much, rather than to seek her dishonour: but for that we think few Princes living, being perswaded in Religion as her Maje∣sty is, and so provoked as she hath been, would have dealt more mildly with such their Subjects (all circumstances considered) than she hath done with us.

But now we are come to the year 1588. and to

that most bloody attempt, not only against her Majesty and our common Enemies, but against our selves, all Catholicks: nay against this flourishing Kingdom and our own native Country. The memory of which attempt will be (as we trust) an everlasting Monument of Jesuitical Treason and Cruelty. For it is apparent in a Treatise penned by the advice of Father Parsons altogether, (as we do verily think) that the King of Spain was especially moved and drawn to that intended mis∣chief against us, by the long and daily solicita∣tions of the Jesuits, and other English Catholicks beyond the Seas, affected and altogether given to Jesuitism. And whereas it is well known, that the Duke of Medina Sidonia had given it out directly, that if once he might land in England, both Catholicks and Hereticks that came in his way should be all one to him: his Sword could not dis∣cern them, so he might make way for his Master, all was one to him: yet the said Father Parsons (for so we will ever charge him, though another man by his crafty perswasion took upon him to be the Author of that Book) did labour with all the Rhetorick he had to have perswaded us, upon the supposed arrival of the Spaniard, to have joyned with him to our own destructions: telling us many fair tales, and alluring us with sundry great promises, all of them meer illusions, fals∣hoods, and most traiterous instigations and jug∣lings. He ascribeth it to error of Conscience, and want of courage, terming the same an effeminate dastardy: that we had then suffered her Majesty almast thirty years to reign over us. He threat∣ned

us with Excommunication, and utter ruine both of our selves and all our Posterity, if we did then any longer obey, abet, or aid, defend or ac∣knowledge her Highness to be our Queen, or Supe∣riour: and did not forthwith joyn our selves with all our Forces to the Spaniards. The good Cardinal (by Parsons means) is drawn to say, That the Pope had made him Cardinal, intending to send him as his Legat, for the sweeter managing of this (forsooth) godly and great Affair: and to affirm upon his honour and in the word of a Car∣dinal, that in the fury of the Spaniards intended Conquest, there should be as great care had of every Catholick and penitent person, as possibly could be. And to allure the Nobility of this Realm, he pro∣mised them to become an humble Suiter on their be∣halfs, that (so as they shew them selves valiant in assisting the King of Spain's Forces) they might continue their noble Names and Families. Surely they had been wise men, that should have relyed much either upon his promise, or the Spaniards courtesie. This Jesuit also telleth all Catholicks, the better to comfort them (but indeed to the great scandal for ever of all Priesthood,) and to shew how just and holy the cause was they had in hand: that there were divers Priests in the Kings Army, ready to serve every mans spiritual necessity, by Confession, Counsel, and all consolation in Christ Jesus. Also he so advanceth the Forces of the Ene∣mies, & extenuateth her Majesties abilities to with∣stand them, as he accounted the Victory obtained in effect before they were landed, telling us, That besides the said great Forces, we should so be assi∣sted

by the blessed Patrons both of Heaven and Earth, with the guard of all Gods holy Angels, with our blessed Saviour himself in the soveraign Sacrament, and with the daily most holy oblation of Christs own dear body and blood, as it could not fall out otherwise, but that we must needs prevail. Which kind of perswasions, some of them being ridiculous, the most very traiterous, and these last most blasphemous, as tending so greatly to the dishonour of Religion, we detest and abhor. And in all these Jesuitical and disloyal practices, this is our comfort, that albeit we doubt not, but that the Pope as a temporal Prince did joyn and con∣tribute towards this intended Invasion: yet we find Father Parsons declaration of Xistus Quintus sentence of deposition of her Majesty at that time, and of his admonition thereunto adjoyned, as in the Popes name, to have no warrant at all besides his own bare affirmation, either of Breve or of any other publick Instrument, as in such cases had been most necessary, otherwise than that he told us, it was the Popes pleasure that we should take notice thereof by his Book which was then prin∣ted, and to have been scattered amongst us. By warrant whereof (as we are perswaded) it was not lawful for us to have killed a Goose, if her Ma∣jesty had forbidden us so to do.

Of these matters (to return still to our former Apologies) we would have said nothing, were they not objected unto us, and shewed us out of the Books themselves, as notes and arguments of our traiterous hearts: our Adversaries pressing

the same upon us, as if they did belong unto us, and we were as guilty of them, as either they that plotted or published them. Which conceit, if it should take root in those that be in Authority, how could we hope for any favour, but were ra∣ther to expect the greatest extremity that might be? So as still we may say, that the proceedings held against her Majesty well weighed, these fo∣reign Jesuitical practices, have been the cause of all our troubles.

When it had pleased God to deliver her Maje∣sty and this Kingdom from the said intended In∣vasion, Mr. Parsons whether ashamed of the foil, (for the success whereof he was so peremptory) or for that he thought matters would be better managed in Spain, if he were there to give his ad∣vice, departed from Rome (as we take it) and be∣came a Courtier to attend King Philip: where by Mendoza his fellow Jesuit's means, he grew short∣ly into so great estimation (not for any goodness in him towards this Realm, you may be sure, but rather in respect of his deadly hatred against it) that he procured a Seminary to be erected at Val∣ledolyd 1589. But we will leave his proceedings in Spain a while.

In these ten years last mentioned from 1580. till 1590. or but little before, we find her Maje∣sty to be excommunicated by Gregory the Thir∣teenth: Mr. Sherwin and the rest of our Brethren too much Jesuited, refuse to answer, whether they will take the Queens part or the Popes, if he

should come by force of Arms to assail her in her own Kingdom: Parsons and Heywood are found to be Practitioners, but especially Parsons. The intention of the Duke of Guise is entertained here and prosecuted: Her Majesties life is sought by treachery: Babington and his Companions shoot at the Crown: Stanley is a Treacherer, breaketh his faith, and is defended for so doing. Then followed the Invasion: and lastly, Parsons plot∣tings in Spain, and the erection of new Seminaries there. Now let us consider, how we our selves all this while have been dealt with. Such of us as remained in Prison at Wisbich (and were com∣mitted thither 1580. and others not long after committed also thither, to the number of about thirty three or thirty four) continued still in the several times of all the said most wicked design∣ments, as we were before: and were never brought into any trouble for them, but lived there, Col∣ledge-like, without any want, and in good reputa∣tion with our Neighbours that were Catholicks about us. It is true that towards the number of fifty (as our memory serveth us) Priests and Ca∣tholicks of all sorts, within the compass of the said ten years were put to death: we say upon our knowledges (concerning the most of them) for their consciences: but our Adversaries (as they think) do still affirm for Treason. Such Priests as in their examination were found any thing mode∣rate, were not so hardly proceeded with: insomuch as fifty five (to our remembrance) that by the Laws (we acknowledge) might likewise have been put to death, were in one year, viz. 1585. (what

time great mischiefs were in hand) spared from that extremity, and only banished. Which fact, howsoever some have written of it, the parties themselves accounted it for a great benefit, and so would they also have done (we doubt not of it) if they had been then of that number. Whereas therefore Mr. Parsons (as we think) exclaimeth in a Pamphlet set out shortly after, saying, Where are now the old Tyrants of the World, Nero, De∣cius, Dioclesian, Maxentius, and the rest of the great persecutors of the Christians? Where is Gen∣serick and Hunricus with their Arrian Hereticks? alluding to the State here: we think both him, and divers others that have written to the same effect, very greatly to blame. Sure we are, that the general cause of Religion, for the which both we and they contend (as oft we have said) get∣teth no good but hurt by it: and contrary to the old saying, (be he never so bad, yet let him have justice) though some hard courses have been ta∣ken by the State against us; yet hath it not by many degrees been so extreme, as the Jesuits and that crew have falsely written and reported of it.

But to return to Father Parsons in Spain, and to proceed in the course of things which have hap∣pened since 1590. The said Father Parsons so managed the said Seminary erected in Valledolyd, as within three years, viz. 1591. twelve or thir∣teen Priests were sent hither from thence. Also he procured some other Seminaries to be erected in Spain, and furnished them with such Students as he thought fit, which (for our parts) we great∣ly

commend in him, if he took this pains, and im∣ployed his favour with the King to a good end: whereof we have some doubt, knowing the Je∣suits fetches: but the State here did utterly con∣demn him for it, finding that both he and some others were plotting and labouring by all the means they could for a new Invasion. Whereupon a Proclamation was set out 1591. as well for an inquiry or search for all such Seminary Priests, as either were, or should hereafter come from Spain, as also from any other Seminaries beyond the Seas, upon suspicion, that they were sent hither for no other end, but to prepare a way for the said Inva∣sion. Whereas we are verily perswaded in our consciences, and do know it for many, that the Priests themselves had no such intention, whatso∣ever the Jesuits had that sent them. Against the said Proclamation, three or four have whet their Pens: but still, whilst they seek to disgrace and gall the State, they have ever thereby wound∣ed and beaten us, being themselves in the mean time void of all danger. One of them, Mr. Par∣sons by name, (as we suppose) writing in his said Pamphlet of the new intended Invasion, mentio∣ned in the said Proclamation, telleth us, That the King hath just cause to attempt again that enter∣prise. And again he saith, That the King is so interessed (together with the Pope) to seck (as he termeth it) her Majesties reformation, that he the said King is bound in. Justice to do it, and cannot without prejudice of his high estimation and great∣ness refuse at the soonest opportunity to attempt it. Marry withal to comfort us, he writeth, That the

King intendeth no rigorous dealing with our Na∣tion, in the prosecution of his Invasion, when he co∣meth hither. Which great favour of the King to∣wards us, we are to ascribe to good Father Par∣sons, if we may believe his dutiful Subject Mr. Southwell the Jesuit. For thus he telleth us, If ever, saith he, the King should prevail in that de∣signment (of his new Invasion) Father Parsons as∣sisted with Cardinal Alanes Authority hath done that in our Countries behalf, for which his most bit∣ter enemies, and generally all her Majesties Subjects shall have cause to thank him for his serviceable en∣deavours, so far hath he inclined fury to clemen∣cy, and rage to compassion. Sure we are greatly beholding to this good Father, that hath had so kind a remembrance of us. But we wish that he had rather imployed himself as a religious man in the service of God, and his private meditations, than thus to have busied himself in setting forward and qualifying it, when he hath done so outragi∣ous a designment: and do pray with all our hearts, that neither we nor this Kingdom do ever fall into the hands of the Spaniards, whose unspeakable cruelties in other Countries, a worthy Catholick Bishop hath notably described to all posterity. The same Mr. Parsons also, together with his fel∣low Jesuit Mr. Creswell (as men that pretend ex∣traordinary love to their Country) have written a large Volume against the said Proclamation, where∣in what malice and contempt can devise, that might provoke her Majesty to indignation against us, is there set out very skilfully, they themselves well knowing that no other fruit or benefit could

come unto us by that discourse, except it were still to plague us.

Whilst the said Invasion was thus talked of, and in preparation in Spain, a shorter course was thought of, if it might have had success. Mr. Hes∣ket was set on by the Jesuits 1592. or therea∣bouts, with Father Parsons consent or knowledge, to have stirred up the Earl of Derby to rebellion against her Highness.

Not long after good Father Holt and others with him, perswaded an Irish man one Patrick Collen (as he himself confessed) to attempt the laying of his violent and villanous hands upon her Majesty. Shortly after in the year 1593. that notable Stratagem was plotted (the whole State knoweth by whom,) for Doctor Lopez the Queens Physician to have poysoned her, for the which he was executed the year after. This wicked designment being thus prevented by Gods providence, the said traiterous Jesuit, Holt and others, did allure and animate one Yorke and Wil∣liams, to have accomplished that with their bloo∣dy hands, that the other purposed to have done with his poyson: we mean her Majesties destru∣ction. Hereunto we might add the late villanous attempt 1599. of Edward Squire, animated and drawn thereunto (as he confessed) by Walpole that pernicious Jesuit. But we must turn again to Fa∣ther Parsons, whose turnings and doublings are such as would trouble a right good Hound to trace him. For in the mean time, that the said

Traiters one after another, were plotting and stu∣dying, how best they might compass her Majesties death they cared not how, nor by what means, he the said Father Parsons so prevailed with the King, as he attempted twice in two sundry years, his new Invasion, meaning to have proceeded therein, not with such great preparation as he did at the first, but only to have begun the same, by taking some Port Westward, toward which he came so far onward as Silley with his Fleet. At both which times, God, who still hath fought for her Majesty and this Realm, did notably prevent him, by such winds and tempests, as the most of his Ships and men perished in the Sea, as they were coming hitherward. Furthermore the said good Father in the midst of all the said traiterous en∣terprises both at home and abroad (devised and set forward by him and his Companions) was plod∣ding amongst his Papers, and playing the Herald: how, if all his said wicked designments failed, he might at the least, intitle the King of Spain and consequently the Infanta his Daughter to the Crown and Kingdom of England. To which purpose he framed, and afterwards published a Book, wherewith he acquainted the Students in those Seminaries in Spain: and laboured no∣thing more, than to have their subscriptions to the said Infantaes title, therein promising unto her their present Allegiance, as unto their lawful Soveraign: and that when they should be sent into their Coun∣try, they should perswade the Catholicks there to do the like, without any further expectation of the Queen of England's death, as Mr. Charles Paget

affirmeth in his Book against Parsons.

We spake of the Seminaries in Spain before, somewhat suspiciously: and now you see the rea∣son that moved us so to do. Besides we do not doubt, but that in the perusing of this our dis∣course, you will be assaulted with many strange cogitations, concerning our full intent and mean∣ing therein. Which although it cannot chuse, but that it doth already in part appear unto you; yet now we come to a more clear and plain decla∣ration of our purpose. You see into what hatred the wicked attempts of the Jesuits against her Ma∣jesty and the State, hath brought not only all Ca∣tholicks in general, but more especially us that are secular Priests, although we did ever dislike and blame them, nay detest and hate them, no men more. For any of us to have been brought up in the Seminaries beyond the Seas, hath been, and still is (as you know) a matter here very odi∣ous, and to us full of danger. But by Father Par∣sons courses with the Seminaries in Spain, and now that he is Rector of the English Seminary in Rome, and so taketh upon him by his favour there to direct and command all the rest: what will the State here think of the Priests, that shall come from any of those Seminaries hereafter, where they must be brought up, according to the Jesuiti∣cal humor, and sent hither with such directions as shall be thereunto agreeable? The said Book of Titles compiled by Parsons, is here very well known, almost to the whole Realm: and Mr. Charles Paget hath not been silent as touching the Infanta, and the bringing up of Students to be

sent hither, as Priests to promote her title. Sun∣dry sharp courses have been taken already with us, and many Laws are made against us. But now, what may we expect, but all the cruelty that ever was devised against any man, if the State should think both us, and all other Catholicks to be ei∣ther addicted, or any way inclined to the advance∣ment of any foreign Title against her Majesty, or her lawful Successors.

And it cannot chuse, but that we should there∣of be the rather suspected, because at this time it is well known, that the infection of Jesuitism doth bear great sway in England amongst us, whilst our Archpriest (who taketh upon him to rule all) is himself over-ruled by Garnet the Je∣suit, who as a most base Vassal, is in every thing at the beck and command of Father Parsons.

For the avoiding therefore of all the further mischiefs that may ensue, we first profess (as before we have often done) that we do utterly dislike and condemn in our consciences, all the said slan∣derous Writings and Pamphlets, which have been published to the slander of her Majesty and this Realm, protesting that the Jesuitical designments beyond the Seas, together with certain rebellious and traiterous attempts of some Catholicks at home, have been the causes of such calamities and troubles, as have happened unto us: great (we confess) in themselves, but far less (we think) than any Prince living in her Majesties case, and so provoked would have inflicted upon us. Some of

us have said many a time, when we have read and heard speeches of her Majesties supposed cruelty. Why my Masters? what would you have her to do, being resolved as she is in matters of Religion, except she should willingly cast off the care, not only of her State and Kingdom, but of her life al∣so and Princely estimation? Yea, there have been amongst us of our own calling, who have likewise said, That they themselves, knowing what they do know, how under pretence of Religion, the life of her Majesty, and the subversion of the Kingdom is aim∣ed at: if they had been of her Highnesses Council, they would have given their consent, for the making of very strait and rigorous Laws to the better suppressing and preventing of all such Jesuitical and wicked designments. Secondly, we do all of us acknowledge, that by our Learning (secluding all Machiavilian Maxims) Ecclesiastical persons by virtue of their calling are only to meddle with praying, preaching, and administring the Sacra∣ments, and such other like spiritual Functions, and not to study how to murder Princes, nor to lici∣tate Kingdoms, nor to intrude themselves into matters of State, Successions, and Invasions, as Fryer George did in Pannonia, to the utter ruine of that beautiful Realm. Thirdly; we profess our selves, with all godly courage and boldness, to be as sound and true Catholick Priests, as any Jesuits, or men living in the world, and that we do not desire to draw breath any longer upon the earth, than that we shall so continue; but yet therewith we being born her Majesties Subjects, do plainly affirm and resolutely acknowledge it, without all

Jesuitical equivocation, that if the Pope himself (as some of the Apostles did) do come into this Land; or if he do send hither some Fugatius and Damianus, as Eleutherus did, or some Augustine, Lau∣rence or Justus, as Saint Gregory did, we will to do them service, go unto them, and lye down at their feet, and defend with them the Catholick faith by the sacred Scriptures, and authority of the Church, though it cost us our lives. But if he come or send hither an Army, under pretence to establish the said Catholick Religion, by force, and with the Sword, we will ever be most ready, as native born and true Subjects to her Highness, with the hazard of our lives, and with all our might, to withstand and oppose our selves against him, and to spend the best blood in our bodies in defence of the Queen and our Country. For we are throughly perswaded, that Priests of what or∣der soever, ought not by force of Arms, to plant or water the Catholick faith, but in spiritu leni∣tatis & mansuetudinis to propagate and defend it. So it was planted in the Primitive Church, over all the World: & crescit & fructificat sicut & in nobis est, ex quo die recepimus. The anci∣ent godly Christians, though they had sufficient forces, did not oppose themselves in Arms against their Lords the Emperours, though of another Religion. But our purpose is not to dispute this point.

And now lastly, we commend unto you all (our very right dear and beloved Brethren) this our most humble Suit. First, that you will interpret

the whole premises no otherwise than we our selves have expounded our own meaning. Secondly, we intreat you to remember, how dear we have been unto you, and that we continue our unfeign∣ed affection towards you still: assuring you, that howsoever you are changed, we do affect you still, with a true and jealous love in Christ Jesu.

Thirdly, we desire you by the mercies of God, to take heed of Novelties and Jesuitism: for it is nothing but treachery, dissimulation, ambition, and a very vizard of most deep hypocrisie. When other Kingdoms begin to loath them, why should you so far debase your selves, as to admire them? Give us not occasion to say with the blessed Apo∣stle: You foolish Galatians who hath bewitch∣ed you?

Fourthly, never give ear to any private Whis∣perers, or Jesuitical perswasions, that shall tend to allure you from your duties and allegiance unto her Majesty, or your native Country. All argu∣ments, that can be brought to corrupt you in ei∣ther, assure your selves, are false and unlearned so∣phistications. The Catholick faith, for her sta∣bility and continuance hath no need of any trea∣chery or rebellion. The promise made to S. Peter, is her sure ground, and is more dishonoured with treasons, and wicked policies of carnal men, than any way furthered or advanced. The word of the spirit, and not the sword of the flesh, or any arm of man is that, which giveth life and beauty to the Catholick Church. We are fully perswa∣ded

in our consciences, and as men besides our Learning, who have some experience, that if the Catholicks had never sought by indirect means to have vexed her Majesty with their designments against her Crown: if the Pope and King of Spain had never plotted with the Duke of Norfolk: if the Rebels in the North had never been heard of: if the Bull of Pius Quintus had never been known: if the said Rebellion had never been justified: if neither Stukeley nor the Pope had attempted any thing against Ireland: if Gregory the Thirteenth had not renewed the said Excommunication: if the Jesuits had never come into England: if the Pope and King of Spain had not practised with the Duke of Guise for his attempt against her Maje∣sty: if Parsons and the rest of the Jesuits, with other our Country-men beyond the Seas, had ne∣ver been Agents in those traiterous and bloody designments of Throckmorton, Parry, Collen, York, Williams, Squire and such like: If they had not by their Treatises and Writings endeavoured to defame their Soveraign, and their own Country, labouring to have many of their Books to be tran∣slated into divers languages, thereby to shew more their own disloyalty: if Cardinal Alane and Par∣sons had not published the renovation of the said Bull by Xistus Quintus: if thereunto they had not added their scurrilous and unmanly admonition, or rather most prophane Libel against her Majesty: if they had not sought by false perswasions, and ungodly arguments, to have allured the hearts of all Catholicks from their Allegiance: if the Pope had never been urged by them to have thrust the

King of Spain into that barbarous action against the Realm: if they themselves with all the rest of that generation, had not laboured greatly with the said King for the Conquest and Invasion of this Land by the Spaniards, who are known to be the cruellest Tyrants that live upon the earth: if in all their proceedings, they had not from time to time depraved, irritated, and provoked both her Majesty and the State, with these and many other such like their most ungodly and unchristian practices: but on the contrary, if the Popes from time to time had sought her Majesty, by kind offices and gentle perswasions, never ceasing the prosecution of those and such like courses of humanity and gentleness: if the Catholicks and Priests beyond the Seas had laboured continually the furtherance of those most Priest-like and divine allurements, and had framed their own proceedings in all their works and writings accordingly: if we at home all of us, both Priests and people had possessed our souls in meekness and humility, honoured her Majesty, born with the infirmities of the State, suffered all things, and dealt as true Catholick Priests: if all of us (we say) had thus done, most assuredly the State would have loved us, or at least born with us: where there is one Catholick, there would have been ten: there had been no speeches amongst us of Racks and Tortures, nor any cause to have used them; for none were ever vexed that way simply, for that he was either Priest or Catholick, but because they were suspe∣cted to have had their hands in some of the said most traiterous designments: none of her Maje∣sties

enemies durst so readily have attempted her State and Kingdom: we had been in better friend∣ship with those that seek now most to oppose themselves against us, and to all men (as we are perswaded) bonus odor Christi, odor vitae ad vi∣tam: whereas by following the said new violent Spirits, quasi turbae impellentes parietem, we are become odor mortis ad mortem, non solum iis qui pereunt, sed etiam iis qui salvi fiunt. And there∣fore let us all turn over the leaf, and take another course, than hitherto we have done.

To conclude, we do also further intreat and be∣seech you, to consider with your selves, the state of the Seminaries beyond the Seas, as now they stand at the disposition of the Jesuits, and joyn together with us, that the said Jesuits may be re∣moved from the government and direction of them. It is too well known, how hotly they are addicted to the pursuing of a Spanish Monarchy: for the advancement whereof, (because it tendeth to their own glory, being altogether Hispaniated and transported into those humors, the better to resemble and imitate their Founder and Father Ignatius Loyola a Spaniard) they will certainly never cease to put in practice all the mischief, they can either devise themselves, or learn amongst their company: which is, as they consort them∣selves, the very School of Machiavellism. In the which our joynt suit, if we cannot prevail, it re∣maineth then, that you would be pleased to be in∣treated by us, not to send or suffer your children or friends to go beyond the Seas unto them, that so

they may be driven, if needs they will train up Youths to make them Traiters, to gather them up in other Countries, whereby they shall not be able so much to infect or endanger us. Besides, we are fully perswaded, that by this course, although at the first we be not heard, by reason of the might that the Jesuitical faction are grown unto: yet his Holiness, when he shall perceive it, and in the depth of his singular wisdom consider, what incon∣venience may come thereof, will easily be drawn to hearken unto us. Or howsoever (as our Sa∣viour Christ saith in another case) potens est Deus de lapidibus istis suscitare filios Abrahae: though you never send your Sons or Friends beyond the Seas, to the ruinating both of your selves, and of your Country, if the Jesuits shall still have the di∣rection of them: so say we that the Church lived before they were born, and needeth not for the advancement of her glory, any of their traiterous practices: but is able of her self by the assistance of God, to raise up Priests out of our own Univer∣sities, and from among the Ministers themselves, remain they as yet never so stiff or hard against us. And thus commending both you and our cause to God, and our selves to your good favours, and charitable prayers, we take our leaves, and end this tedious discourse, more profitable and pleasing to God (we trust) than acceptable or grateful to ma∣ny, which we can be but sorry for.

Your true Friends the secular Priests.

Whatsoever is written or contained in these Books, we submit all to the censure and judgment of our holy Mother the Catholick Church.

FINIS.

Notes

• Saunders, Morton, Web, &c.