The church-history of Britain from the birth of Jesus Christ until the year M.DC.XLVIII endeavoured by Thomas Fuller.

SECTION V.

To DANIEL HARVEY Esq High Sheriff of Surrey.

I am sufficiently sensible of the great distance and dispropor∣tion betwixt my meanesse and your worth, (as at all other times, so) now especially, whilst you are a prime Officer in publick employment. Despairing therefore that my pen can produce any thing meet for your entertainment, I have endeavoured in this Section, to accommodate you with Com∣pany fittest for your Converse, being all no meaner then Statesmen, and most of them Privie Councellours, in their severall Letters about the grand businesse of Confor∣mity

God in due time bless you, and your Honorable Consort with such issue as may be a Comfort to you, and a Credit to all your relations.

1. VEry strongly Leicester (though at the Councel table Politickly complying with the rest of the Lords, and concurring alwayes with their results, when sitting in Conjunction with them) when alone, engaged his Affections in favour of the Non-conformists, and improved his power at this time very great with the Queen to obtain great liberty for them. Hence it was, that many Bishops Active in pressing subscription in their Diocess, when repairing to Court, were checkt and snibt by this great favou∣rite to their no small grief and discouragement. Heartned hereat the Brethren, who hitherto had no particular platforme of discipline amongst themselves (as universally owned and practised by their party) began in a solemne Councell held by them (but whether at Cambridge or London uncertain) To conclude, on a certain forme, as followeth in these their decrees faithfully translated out of their own latine Copie.

The Title thereof, videlicet, These be the things that (do seem) may will stand with the peace of the Church; The Decrees.

LEt no man (though he be an Vniversity man) offer himself to the Ministery, nor let any man take upon him an uncertain and vague Ministery,a though it be offered unto him. But such as be called to the Mi∣nistery by some certain Church, let them impart it unto that Classis or confe∣rence (where of themselves are) or else to some greater Church-assembly: and if such shall be found fit by them, then let them be commended, by there letters unto the Bishop, that they may be ordained Ministers by him. Those ceremonies in the Book of Common-Prayer, which being taken from Popery are in controversie, doseem, that they ought to be omitted and given over, if it may be done without danger, of being put from the Ministery; But if there be any imminent danger to be deprived, then this matter must be communicated with the Classis in which that Church is; that by the judgement thereof, it may be determined what ought to be done. If sub∣scription to the Articles of Religion, and to the Book of Common-Prayer, shall be again urged, it is thought, that the Book of Articles may be subscribed unto, according to the statute thirteenth Elizabeth, that is, unto such of them only as contain the sum of Christian faith, and doctrine of the Sa∣craments, But for many weighty causes, neither the rest of the Articles in that Book, nor the Book of Common-prayer may be allowed; no, though a man should be deprived of his Ministery for it. It seemeth that Church-wardens, and Collectors for the poor, might thus be turned into Elders, and into Deacons, when they are to be chosen; Let the Church have warning fifteen dayes before of the time of Election, and of the Ordinance of the Realm: but especially of Christs Ordinance; touching appointing of Watchmen and overseers in his Church, who are to fore-see that none offence of scandall do arise in the Church: and if any shall happen, that by them it may be duly abolished. And touching Deacons of both sorts (Videlicet men and wo∣men) the Church shall be monished, what is required by the Apostle, and that they are not to chuse men, of Custome and of Course; or for their riches, but for their faith, zeal, and integrity, and that the Church is to pray (in the mean time) to be so directed, that they make choice of them that be meet. Let the names of such as are so chosen, be published the next Lords day: and after that, their duties to the Church, and the Churches towards them, shall be declared: then let them be received into the Mini∣stery to which they are chosen, with the generall prayers of the whole Church. The Breth••en are to be requested, to ordain a distribution of all Churches, according to these rules (in that behalf) that are set down in the Synodical Discipline, touching Classicall, Provinciall, Comitiall, or of Commence∣ments, and assemblies for the whole kingdome.

The Classes are to be required, to keep acts of memorable matters which they shall see delivered to the Comitiall assembly, that from thence, they may be brought by the Provinciall assembly; Also they are to deal earnestly with Patrones, to present fit men, whensoever any Church is fallen void in

that Classis; The Comitial assemblies are to be monished to make Collections for relief of the poor, and of scholars, but especially for relief of such Ministers here, as are put out for not subscribing to the Articles, tendered by the Bishops, also for relief of Scottish Ministers and others; and for other profitable and necessary uses. All the Provinciall Synods must continually aforehand foresee in due time, to appoint the keeping of their next Provinciall Synods: and for the sending of Chosen Persons, with cer∣tain instructions, unto the nationall Synod, to be holden whensoever the Parliament for the Kingdome shall be called at some certain set time every year.

See we here the embryo of the Presbyterian Discipline, lying as yet (as it were) in the wombe of Episcopacy, though soon after it swell'd so great, that the mother must violently be cut, before the child could be delivered into the world, as to the publick practice thereof.

2. Many observables in these Decrees offer themselves to our considera∣tion. First, that they were written in latine (whereof they had two ele∣gant penners, Cartwright, and Travers) shewing themselves no enemies to that tongue, which some ignorant Sectaries afterward condemn'd for superstiti∣ous, counting every thing Romish, which was Romane; and very Cordials to be poison, if lapp'd up in latine.

• 2. Probably, as Artists hang a curtain before their works, whilst yet im∣perfect: so these Synodists thought fit in latine as yet, to vail their Decrees from vulgar eyes, seeing nothing can be projected, and per∣fected together. Yea, the repetition of those words doth seem, and it seemeth, carrying something of uncertainty in them, sheweth these Decrees as yet admitted but as Probationers, expecting confirmation on their good behaviour.
• 3. The election of the people is here made the essence of a call to a Pasto∣ral Charge, to which the presentation of the most undoubted Pa∣trone, is call'd in but ad corroborandum. As for Institution from the Bishop, it was superadded (not to compleat his Ministeriall function in point of conscience, but) legally to enable the Minister to recover his maintenance from the detainers thereof.
• 4. Partiall subscription is permitted to the Articles of Religion, viz. only to the Doctrinal part thereof, but none to those wherein Discipline is mentioned, especially to the clause at the end of the twentieth Arti∣cle, The Church both power to decree Rites, and Ceremonies &c. ac∣counted by the Brethren the very sting in the tail of the locusts.
• 5. Those words, If subscription shall be urged again, Plainly intimate, that the reins of Episcopal government were but loosly held, and the rigour thereof remitted, for the reasons by us fore-alledged.
• 6. That Church-wardens, and Collectors for the poor, are so quickly convertible, even in their opinion, into Elders and Deacons only with a more solemn, and publick election, shows, the difference betwixt those officers, to be rather nominal, then real.
• 7. By Women-Deacons here mentioned, we understand such widows which the Apostle appointeth in the primitive Church, to attend stran∣gers, and sick people; and which M^r.a Cartwright affirmeth ought still to be continued, although he confesseth, there be learned men think otherwise.
• ...

• 8. Their Comitial Assemblies, kept in the Universities at the commence∣ments, (wisely they had an eye on the two eyes of the land) were conveniently chosen, as safely shadowed under a confluence of people. See we here, though the matter of their Discipline might be Jure Divino, humane prudence concurred much in the making thereof, as in ordering a National Synod alwayes to run parallel with the Parlia∣ment.
• 9. Mention being made of relieving Scottish Ministers, if any ask what northern tempest blew them hither? know, they quitted their own country about this time, upon refusal of conformity, and found be∣nevolence in England a better livelihood, than a Benefice in Scotland.
• 10. The grand designe driven on in these Decrees was, to set up a Disci∣pline in a Discipline, Presbytery in Episcopacy; which (as appears in the Preface) they thought might well stand with the peace of the Church: but this peace prov'd but a truce, this truce but a short one, before both parties brake into irreconcileable hostility.

Thus it is impossible to make a subordination in their practises, who have an opposition in their principles. For, though such spheres, and orbs, which agree in one center, may proportionably move one within another; yet such as are excentricall can never observe equall distance in their motion, but will sagg aside to grind, and grate one the other. But enough hereof at this time, having jetted out a little already into the next year: no offence (we hope) seeing it makes our History more entire in this subject.

3. This year, Robert Dickons a Leicester- shire youth, but it seems, Apprentice at Mansell in Nottingham-shire having parts, and pregnancy above his Age and profession, arrived at such a height of Prophanenesse, as not only to pretend to visions, but account himself Eliah, sent from God to perfect some defects in the Prophesie of Malachy. But by Gods blessing on the endeavours of M^r. Henry Smith, (whom his Unkle M^r. Briant Cave, this year Sheriff of Leicester-shire employed therein) this Heretick was a reclamed, renouncing his Blasphemies, by Subscription under his own hand and for ought I finde to the contrary, lived peacably, and painfully, the re∣mainder of his life.

4. This is that Henry Smith, born at Withcock in Leicester-shire, of a worshipfull family, (and elder Brother to S^r. Roger smith still surviving) bred in Oxford, and afterwards became that famous Preacher at S^t. Clements Danes in London, commonly called the silver-tongu'd- smith, being but one mettall, in Price and Purity, beneath S^t. Chrysostome- himself. Yea, where∣as generally the sermons of those dayes are now grown out of fashion, (such is our Ages Curiosity, and Affectation of Noveltie) Smiths Sermons keep up their constant Credit, as appears, by their daily Impressions, calculated for all times, places, and persons; so solid, the learned may partly admire; so plain the unlearned may perfectly understand them. The wonder of his worth is increased by the consideration of his tender Age, dying very young b about 50. years agoe.

5. I finde three of such, who seemed Pillars in the Romish Church, de∣ceased this year. First, Richard Bristow, born in Worcester-shire, bred in Oxford in Exeter Colledge, whence he fled beyond the Seas, and by Cardinall Allen was made overseer of the English Colledge, first at Doway, then at Rhemes. He wrote most in English, humili quidem stilo (faith one of his own Opinion) but very solidly; for proof whereof, let his Books against D^r. Fulke be perused. For the recovery of his health, he was advised to return into his native Land, and died quietly neere the City of London.

6. The second, Nicholas Harpsfield, bred first in Winchester School, then New Colledge in Oxford, where he proceeded Doctor of Law, and afterward, became Arch-Deacon of Canterbury. Under King Edward the 6^th, he banish∣ed himself: under Queen Mary he returned, and was advanced: And, under Queen Elizabeth imprisoned for denying Her Supremacy. Yet such was his milde usage in restraint, that he had the opportunity to write much therein; and amongst the rest his Ecclesiastical History, no less learnedly, then painfully peformed; and abating his Partiality to his own Interest, well deserving of all posterity. He wrote also six dialogues, in favour of his Religion; but, (because in durance) he durst not set it forth in his own, but under the Name of Alan Cope. Yet lest truth should be conceal'd, and friend defraud friend of his due praise, he caused these Capitall Letters to be ingraved at the end of his Book.

A. H. L. N. H. E. V. E. A. C.

Hereby mystically meaning.

Auctor Hujus Libri Nicholaus Harpesfeldus. Edidit Verò Eum Aalnus Copus.

He died this year at London in prison, after 20. years restraint, leaving behind him the general reputation of a Religious man.

7. The third, Gregory Martin, born at Macfield in Sussex, bred with Campian in St. Iohns Colledge in Oxford; Tutor to Philip Earl of Arundel, eldest son to Thomas Duke of Norfolke, Afterwards he went over beyond Sea, and became Divinity Professor in the Colledge of Rhemes, died there October 28. and is buried with a large Epitaph, under a plain monument.

8. I shall now withdraw my self, or at leastwise stand by a silent spe∣ctator, whilst I make room for far my betters to come forth and speak in the present controversie of Church Government. Call it not Cowardize, but count it Caution in me, if desirous in this difference to lie at a close-guard, and offer as little as may be on either side. Whilst the Reader shall behold the Masters of Defence on both sides engaged therein in these following letters of State. Baronius the great Roman Annalist was wont to say, Epistolaris Historia est optima Historia, that is the best History which is collected out of Letters, How much of the Acts of the Apostles especially for the regulation of time) is contained in the Epistles of S^t. Paul? Of the Primitive History, the most Authenticall part is what is gathered out of the letters of the Fathers, and in like manner the true estate of Ecclesiasticall affairs in the dayes of Queen Elizabeth, may be extracted out of the following despatches, and their returns, exhibiting the inclinations of their Authors in pure Natu∣ralls without any adulterated addition, and therefore the surest for others in∣struction, and safest for my own protection.

9. But one thing I must clear in our entrance thereon, in excuse that these Letters are Dateless as to the day and moneth, a great omission which I have seen in many Originalls, whose Authors so minded the matter, that they neglected the time, the present dispatching of them being date enough to their purpose, though now the want thereof leaves Posterity at a loss. A Blew Coat without a Badge, is but a white Coat in effect; as nothing informing the Beholder to what Lord the Bearer thereof doth relate: And as little instructive (will some say) are these Letters as to the point of Chrono∣logie. But be it known that no Readers stomack can be so sharp set on Cri∣ticalness

of Chronologie, but that being fed with the certainty of the year, He will not be famisht with the uncertainty of the moneth or day. Indeed as such whose names are casually omitted in the Register, may recover the truth of their age by a Comparative Computation of their years, who were born about the same time; so by the mixture and comparing of these dateless Letters, with those having date, of secular affairs I could Competently have collected, and inserted the time, save that I loath to obtrude any thing conjecturall on the readers belief. But we must begin with the ensuing Peti∣tion as the ground-work of all the rest.

The Ministers of Kent to the Privie Councel.

MAy it please your Honours, of your great and wonted favour towards the distressed, to consider these following. Whereas we have been called to subscribe in the County of Kent, to certain Articles propounded by my Lords Grace of Canterbury, unto the Ministers and Preachers. The first concerning Her Majesties autho∣rity. The second, concerning no contrariety to the word of God, in the Book of Common-Prayer, and administration of the Sacra∣ments, the book of ordering Bishops, Priests, and Deacons. And the third, that we beleeve all things in the book of the Articles of Religion, to be agreeable to the word of God: Whereupon, all have most willingly offered to subscribe unto the other two. And being pronounced in the open Court, Contumaces reservata poenâ, and so refer'd to answer at Law the 11, and 13, of February. Which we feared would be prosecuted with much trouble, and no resolu∣tion to our consciences, we amongst the rest repaired with that care∣full avoiding, that we could, of offence to his Lordships Grace, to whom when we had the first day made known some of our doubts concerning the first book only, (many moe in number, and as great in weight, concerning the first and second, and some concerning the third, remaining beside) we have upon our refusall, and record taken by publick notary of one point only, from every particular refuser, which moved him thereunto, and one place of Scripture adjoyned with∣out collection, or the reason of the same, been suspended from our Ministery, by which occasion as we fear, that that account which hath been made of the consequence of our cause, both in publick sermons and pronouncing of sentence against us, namely, that in denying to subscribe to the two aforesaid Articles, we separated our selves from the Church, and condemned the right service of God in prayer, and administration of the Sacraments in the Church of England, and the Ministry of the same, and disobeyed Her Majesties Authority, hath been intimated to your Honours. So we think it our bound duties, most humbly on our knees to beseech your Honours, to know and make manifest in our behalf to Her Majesty: that which we before the Lord in simplicity protest, we in all reverence judge of the authority which is established, and the persons which were Au∣thors of those books, that they did not only speak, but also did highly to the glory of God promote the true Religion of God, and the Glorious Gospell of Jesus Christ, and that we so esteem of those books, and there is nothing in them to cause us to separate our selves

from the unity of the Church, which in the execution of our ministry, in participation of the publick prayers, and Sacraments, we have in our own example testified, and by publick doctrine maintained; And that the ministery of the word preached, and publick admini∣stration of the Sacraments exercised in this land according to Autho∣rity, is as touching the substance of it, Lawfull and greatly blessed of God. And lastly, that we have and always will shew our selves obedient to Her Majesties authority in all causes Ecclesiasticall and civil to whomsoever it be committed, and therefore, that as poor, but most faithfull subjects to Her Majesty, and Ministers of Jesus Christ the great cause we have in hand, and which consequently (as we under your Honours correction judge) the necessary reformation of many things in the Church according unto Gods word, may have that sufficient hearing, as all causes of our refusall to subscribe may be known, and equally out of Gods word judged of, and the lamen∣table estate of the Churches to which we appertain, with the hard condition of us, may in that manner, that your Honours most excel∣lent wisdom shall finde expedient in the pitty of Jesus Christ, for the mean time be relieved, the Lord Almighty vouchsafe for Jesus Christ his sake long to continue, and bless your Honours wisdom, and Councell to the great glory of God, and the happy government of Her Majestie, and flourishing estate of this Church of England,

Your Honours daily and faithfull Orators, the Ministers of Kent, which are suspended from the execution of their Ministery.

The Lords of the Councell, sent this Petition with another Bill of complaint exhibited unto them against Edmond Freak Bishop of Norwich, unto the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury. What his answer was thereunto, the reader may informe himself out of the following letter.

To the Lords of the Councell.

Most Honorable,

UPon Sunday last in the afternoon, M^r. real brought unto me in your Lordships names two supplications, or Bills of complaint exhibited unto your Lordships: The one by certain Ministers of Suff. against their Diocesan there: The other by some of Kent against my self, with this further message, that it was your desires I should come to the Court on Sunday next; It may please your good Lord∣ships to be advertised, that it seemeth something strange to me, that the Ministers of Suffolk finding themselves aggrieved with the do∣ings of their Diocesan, should leave the ordinary course of procee∣ding by Law (which is to appeal unto me) and extraordinarily trou∣ble your Lordships in a matter not so incident (as I think to that most honourable Board, seeing it hath pleased Her Majesty Her own

self in express words to commit these causes Ecclesiasticall to me, as to one who is to make answer to God, to her Majesty in this behalf, my office also and place requiring the same.

In answer of the complaint of the Suffolk men of their Ordinaries proceeding against them, I have herewith sent to your Lordships a Copie of a letter which I lately received from his Lordship, where∣in I think that part of their Bill to be fully answered, and his do∣ings to have been orderly and charitable. Touching the rest of their Bill, I know not what to judge of it, neither yet of what spirit it cometh: but in some points it talketh (as I think) modestly and charitably. They say they are no Jesuits sent from Rome to reconcile &c. True it is, neither are they charged to be so, but notwith∣standing they are contentious in the Church of England, and by their contentions minister occasion of offence to those which are seduced by Jesuits, and give the arguments against the forme of publick pray∣er, used in this Church, and by law established, and thereby en∣crease the number of them, and confirm them in their wilfullnesse. They also make a Schism in the Church, and draw many other of her Majesties subjects to a misliking of her Laws and Government in causes Ecclesiasticall, so far are they from perswading them to obedi∣ence, or at least, if they perswade them to it in the one part of her authority, it is in causes civill, they desswade them from it as much in the other, that is in causes Ecclesiasticall, so that indeed they pluck down with the one hand, that which they seem to build with the o∣ther: they say that they have faithfully traveled in perswading to obedience &c. and have therein prevailed &c. It is but their own testimony, I think it were hard for them to shew whom they con∣verted from Papistry to the Gospell. But what stirrs, and discentions they have made amongst those which professed the Gospel before they were taught by them, I think it to be apparent. It is notorious that in King Edwards time, and in the beginning of her Majesties Reign, for the space of divers years; When this self same book of publick prayers was uniformally used &c. by all learned Preachers maintained, and impug∣ned by none, the Gospell mightily prevailed, took great increase, and very few were known to refuse to communicate with us in pray∣er, and participation of the Sacraments. But since this Schism and division, the contrary effect hath fallen out, and how can it other∣wise be, seeing we our selves condemn that publick form and order of prayer and administration of the Sacraments, as in divers points contrary to the word of God, from which (as in like manner con∣demning the same) the Papists do absent themselves. In the later part of their Bill conteining the reasons why they cannot submit them∣selves, to observe the form prescribed by the book in all points, I wonder either at their ignorance or audacity. They say that the Learned writers of our time have shewed their mislikings of some of our Ceremonies. The most learned writers in our times have not so done, but rather reproved the mislikers, those few that have given con∣trary judgement therein, have done more rashly then learnedly, presu∣ming to give their Censures of such a Church as this is, not understand∣ing the fruits of the cause. Nor alledging any reason worth the hearing, especially one little Colledge in either of our Universities, containing in it more learned men then in their Cities. But if the authority of men so greatly move them, why make they so small account of those most excellent and learned Fathers, who were the penners of the Book? whereof divers have sealed their Religion with their Blood, which none yet have done of the impugners of the Book. The Pope (say

they) hath changed his Officium B. Mariae &c. And so it is, nei∣ther is there any man that doubteth, but the Book of Common-Prayer may also be altered, if there appear good cause why to those in Authority. But the Pope will not suffer that Officium B. Marie &c. to be preached against, or any part thereof, till it was by publick order reformed, neither will he confess that he hath reformed it in respect of any errours, but such only as did creep in to the said Book through private mens affections, without authority. Therefore that argument is against them, and only used by them (as it seemeth) in contempt the rest is frivolous, and argueth their presumption in writing, this to so honourable a Board of so worthy and godly a Book, which hath an hundred learned men to justifie it, for one that will impugne it. And thus much concerning them which I have writ∣ten rather to satisfie your Lordships, then that I thought the matter worthy my labour. The complaint which those of Kent, being of my own Diocess, and by oath bound to me in Canonicall obedience, have exhibited unto your Lordships, doth make me more to won∣der, that they most of them being unlearned, and young (such as I would be loath to admit into the Ministry, if they were not already admitted thereunto, much less to allow as Preachers) dare presume to bring my doings against them into question before your Lordships, seeing I have done nothing but that which God, the Law, her Majesty, and my duty forceth me unto, dealing with them not as an Arch-Bishop with the Inferiour sort of the Clergy, nor as a master of a Colledge with his fellows, nor as a Magistrate with his inferiours, but as a Friend, and a Brother, (which as I think) hath so puffed them up, and caused them to be so presumptuous. They came to me un∣sent for, in a multitude, which I reproved, because it imported a conspiracy, and had the shew of a Tumult or unlawfull Assembly. Notwithstanding I was content to hear their complaint, I spent with them the whole afternoon, from two of the clock till seven, and heard their Reasons, whereof some were frivolous, and childish, some irreligious, and all of them such as gave me occasion to think that they rather sought quarrel against the Book, then to be satisfied, which indeed is true, as appeareth by some of their own confessions, which I am able to shew, when I shall be thereunto urged. The two whole dayes following, I spent likewise for the most part in dealing severally with them, requiring them to give unto me the Chief, and principal of their Reasons which moved them not to subscribe, mea∣ning to hear them in the rest, if I could have satisfied them in it, or else not to spend any further time; which reasons (if I may so term them) they gave unto me, and I have, and mean to make known when occasion shall serve; Whereas they say in their bill, that the publick administration of the Sacraments in this Land, is as touching the substance of it lawfull &c. They say no more then the Papists themselves do confess, and in truth they say nothing in effect to that wherewith they are charged. And yet therein they are contrary to themselves, for they have pretended matter of substance against the Book. But of what spirit cometh it, that they being no otherwise then they are, dare to the greatest Authority in this land next to her Majesty so boldly offer themselves, thus to reason, and dispute as in their bill they vaunt against the State established in matters of Religi∣on, and against the book so learnedly, and painfully penned, and by so great Authority from time to time confirmed. It is not for me to sit in this place, if every Curate within my Diocess or Province may be permitted so to use me; neither is it possible for me to per∣forme

forme the duty which her Majesty looketh for at my hands, if I may not without interruption proceed in execution of that which her Highness hath especially committed unto me. The Gospell can take no success, neither the number of Papists be diminished, if unity be not procured, which I am not in doubt in short time to bring to pass, without any great adoe or inconvenience at all, if it be not hindred. The number of those which refuse to subscribe is not great, in most parts of my Province not one, in some very few, and in some none, whereof many also and the greater part are unlearned, and unworn∣thy the Ministry. In mine own little Diocess in Canterbury threescore Preachers and above have subscribed, whereas there are not ten worthy the name of Preachers which have as yet refused, and most of them also not allowed Preachers by lawfull Authority, and so I know it to be in all other Diocesses within my Province, the Diocess of Nor∣wich only excepted; Wherein nevertheless the number of disor∣dered is far less, then the number of such as are obedient, and quietly disposed Now if these few disordered, which the Church may well spare having meeter men to place in their rooms, shall be counte∣nanced against the best, the wisest in all respects, the worthiest, and in effect the whole state of the Clergy, it will not only discourage the dutifull and obedient persons, but so encrease the schism, that there will never hereafter be hope of appeasing the same. This disordered flocking together of them at this time from divers places, and gad∣ding from one to another argueth a Conspiracy amongst them, and some hope of incouragement, and of prevailing, which I am perswa∣ded is not meant, nor shall ever be by me willingly consented unto. Some of them have already (as I am informed) bruted abroad, that your Lordships have sent for me to answer their complaints, and that they hope to be delivered, wherein I know they report untruly, as the manner is; for I cannot be perswaded that your Lordships have any such intent as to make me a party, or to call my doings into questi∣on, which from her Majesty are immediately committed unto me, and wherein, as I suppose, I have no other Judge but her self; And for as much as I am by God and her Majesty lawfully without any or∣dinary or extraordinary, or unlawfull means, called to this place and function, and appointed to be your Pastor, and to have the greatest charge over you in matters pertaining to the soul; I am the more bold to move, and desire you to aid and affist me in matters belong∣ing to my office, namely, such as appertain to the quietness of the Church, the credit of religion established, and the maintenance of the laws made for the same. And here I do protest and testifie unto your Lordships, that the three Articles, whereunto they are moved to subscribe, are such, as I am ready by learning to defend in man∣ner and form as they are set down, against all mislikers thereof in England or elsewhere. And thus desiring your Lordships to take this my answer in good part, and to forbear my comming thither in re∣spect of this advantage that may be taken thereof by these wayward persons, I beseech Almighty God long to prosper you.

Your good Lordships in Christ John Cantuar.

Who this M^r. Beal was, who brought these letters, is worthy our inquiry. I finde his Christian name Robert, his office Clark of the Councell, his abilities very great, as may appear by the publick negotiations wherein he was im∣ployed, for he was joyned with S^r. William Winter Anno 1576 in a Com∣mission to the Zealanders, about their reprisalls: And again Anno 1583 he was sent to the Queen of Scots; Sharply to expostulate with her concerning some querulous letters. Well knew Queen Elizabeth what tools to use on knotty timber, oura Author giving M^r. Beal this Character, that he was Homo vehemens, & austerè acerbus, a Eager man, and most austerely bitter. His affections were wholy Presbyterian, and I behold him as one of the best friends (of the second Magnitude) that party had. What he wanted in au∣thority, he had in activity on their sides. And what influence sometimes the Hands have on the Head (I mean Notaries on the Judges themselves) at Councell Board, others may conjecture. He either compiled or counte∣nanced a Book made against the Bishops, and the reader may receive a further confirmation of his Character herein from the following Com∣plaint.

To the Lord Treasurer.

My singular good Lord,

I have borne much with M^r. Beals intemperate speeches, unseemly for him to use, though not in respect of my self, yet in respect of her Majesty whom he serveth, and of the laws established, whereunto he ought to shew some duty. Yesterday he came to my house, as it seemed to demand the book he delivered unto me, I told him that the book was written to me, and therefore no reason why he should require it again: especially, seeing I was assured that he had a Copie thereof, otherwise I would cause it to be written out for him: where∣upon, he fell into very great passions with me (which I think was the end of his coming) for proceeding in the execution of his Articles &c. and told me in effect, that I would be the overthrow of this Church, and a cause of tumult with many other bitter and hard speeches, which I heard patiently, and wished him to consider with what spirit he was moved so to say; for I said, it cannot be by the spi∣rit of God, because the spirit of God worketh in men humility, pa∣tience, and love, and your words declare you to be very Arrogant. proud, impatient, and uncharitable. Moreover the spirit by God moveth men to hear the word of God with meekness &c. And you have alomst heard with disdain every sermon preached before her Majesty this lent, gibing, and jesting openly thereat even in the ser∣mon time, to the offence of many, and especially at such sermons as did most commended her Majesty and the State, and moved the Audi∣tory to obedience, which he confessed and justified, accusing some of the Preachers of false Doctrine, and wrong allegations of Scripture &c. Then he began to extol his book, and said we were never able to answer it, neither for the matter of Divinity, not yet of Law; I told him, as the truth is, that there was no great substance in the book, that it might be very soon answered, and that it did appear neither his Divinity nor Law to be great. I further wished him to be better advised of his doings, and told him indeed, that he was one of the principall causes of the waywardness of divers, because he giveth

incouragement to divers of them to stand in the matter, telling them that the Articles shall be shortly revoked by the Councell, and that my hands shall be stopped &c, which saying is spread abroad already in every place, and is the only cause why many forbear to subscribe, which is true, neither could he deny it. All this while I talked with him privately in the upper part of my Gallery, my Lord of Winche∣ster, and divers strangers being in the other part thereof. But M^r. B••al beginning to extend his voice that all might hear, I began to break off, then he being more, and more kindled, very impatiently utte∣red very proud and contemptuous speeches, in the justifying of his book, and condemning of the orders established to the offence of all the hearers, whereunto (being very desirous to be rid of him) I made small answer, but told him that his speeches were intolerable, that he forgat himself, and that I would complain of him to her Ma∣jesty, whereof he seemed to make small account, and so he depart∣ed in great heat; I am loth to hurt him, or to be an accuser, nei∣ther will I proceed therein further then your Lordships shall think it convenient; but I never was abused more by any man at any time in my life, then I have been by him since my coming to this place, in hardness of speech for doing my duty, and for all things belonging to my charge. Surely my Lord this talk tendeth only to the increasing of the contention, and to the animating of the wayward in their way∣wardness casting out dangerous speeches, as though there were likelihood of sometumult in respect thereof; Whereas in truth God be thanked the matter growth to greater quietness then I think he wisheth, and will be soon quieted, if we be let alone, and they not o∣therwise encouraged. It seemeth he is some way discontented, and would work his anger no me. The tongues of these men tast not of the Spirit of God, your Lordship seeth how bold I am to impart unto you my private causes. Truly if it were not that my conscience is setled in these matters, and that I am fully perswaded of the ne∣cessity of these proceedings in respect of the peace of the Church, and due observation of Gods laws, and that I received great comfort at her Majesties hand (as I did most effectually at my last being at the Court) and that I were assured to your Lordships constancie in the cause, and of your unmoveable good will towards me, I should be hardly able to endure so great a burden, which now (I thank God) in respect of the premises seemeth easie unto me, neither do I doubt but God will therein prosper me. Thus being desirous to impart this matter to your Lordship, to whose consideration I leave it, I commit you to the tuition of Almighty God.

John Cantuar.

Nor have I ought else to say of this M^r. Beal, but that afterwards I finde one of his name and qualitya dying 1601, and buried in London at Athallows in the wall, who by all probability should be the same person. Now that the Presbyterian party was not unfriended at the Councell Board, but had those there, which either out of Dictates of their conscience, or reasons of State, or reflections on their private interests, endeavoured to mitigate the Arch-Bishops proceedings against them. Let their ensuing letter to him be perused.

AFter our hearty commendations to both your Lordships, al∣though we have heard of late times sundry complaints out of divers Countries of this Realm, of some proceedings against a great number of Ecclesiasticall persons, some Parsons of Churches, some Vicars, some Curates, but all Preachers; whereby some were deprived of their livings, some suspended from their Ministry, and preaching, yet we have forborn to enter into any particular exami∣nation of such complaints, thinking that howsoever inferior officers, as Chancellours, Commissaries, Arch-Deacons and such like, whose offices are of more value, and profit by such like kinde of procee∣dings, might in such sort proceed against the Ministers of the Church. Yet your Lordship the Arch-Bishop of that province of Canterbury, have besides your generall Authority some particular interest in the present Jurisdiction of sundry Bishopricks vacant. And you also the Bishop of London, both for your own authority in your Diocess, and as head Commissioner Ecclesiastical, would have a pastorall over the particular officers, to stay and temper them in their hasty proceedings against the Ministers, and especially against such as doe earnestly profess, and instruct the people against the dangerous sects of Papistry. But yet of late, hearing of the lamentable estate of the Church in the Country of Essex, that is, of a great number of zea∣lous and learned Preachers there suspended from their Cures, the Vacancy of the place for the most part, without any Ministry of Preaching, Prayers, and Sacraments. And in some places of certain appointed to those void Rooms, being persons neither of learning nor of good name, and in other places of that County a great number of Parsons occupying the Cures being notoriously unfit, most for lack of learning, many charged or chargable with great, and erroneous faults, and drunkenness, filthiness of life, gamsters at Cards, haunting of Ale-houses, and such like, against whom we hear not of any proceedings, but that they are quietly suffered, to the slander of the Church, to the offence of good people, yea to the famishing of them for lack of good teaching; and thereby dange∣rous to the subverting of many weaklings from their duties to God, and the Queens Majesty by secret Jesuits, and counterfet Papists. And having thus in a generall sort heard out of many parts of the like of this lamentable estate of the Church, yet to the intent we should not be deceived with the Generality of reports, we sought to be in∣formed of some particulars, namely, of some parts of Essex, and having received the same credibly in writing, we have thought it our duties to her Majesty, and the Realm for the Remedy hereof without intermedling our selves with your Jurisdiction Ecclesiasticall, to make report unto your Lordships, as persons that ought most specially to have regard thereto, as we hope you will, and there∣fore have sent you herewith in writing a Catalogue of the names of persons of sundry natures, and conditions, that is, one sort, being re∣ported to be learned, zealous, and good preachers deprived, and suspended, and so the Cures not served with meet Persons. The othersort a number of Persons, having Cures, being in sundry sorts far unmeet for any offices in the Church for their many defects, and imperfections, and so as it seems by the reports have been, and are suffered to continue without reprehension or any other proceedings against them, and thereby a great number of Christian people un∣taught, A matter very lamentable in this time. In a third sort a

number having double livings with Cure, and so not resident upon their Cures. But yet enjoying the benefit of their Benefices with∣out any personall attendance upon their Cures. Against all these sorts of lewd, and evill, and unprofitable, corrupt members, we hear of no inquisition, nor of any kinde of proceeding to the Reformati∣on of those horrible offences in the Church, but yet of great dili∣gence, yea, and extremity used against those that are known dili∣gent Preachers. Now therefore we for the discharge of our duties, being by our vocation under her Majesty bound to be carefull that the universall Realm may be well governed, to the honour and glory of God, and to the discharge of her Majesty being the principal gover∣nor, over all her subjects under Almighty God, do most earnestly desire your Lordships, to take some charitable consideration of these causes, that the people of the Realm may not be deprived of their Pastors being diligent, learned, and zealous, though in some points Ceremoniall, they may seem doubtfull only in Conscience, and not of wilfulness. Nor that their Cures be suffered to be vacant without good Pastors, nor that such as be placed in the Rooms of Cures be insufficient for learning, or unmeet for their conversation. And though the notes which we send you be only of Parsons belonging to Essex, yet we pray you to look into the rest of the Country in many other Diocesses, for we have, and do heare daily of the like in gene∣rality in many other places, but we have not sought to have their particulars to manifestly delivered of other places of Essex, or ra∣ther to say the truth, of one corner of the Country. And we shall be most glad to hear of your cares to be taken for remedy of these Enor∣mities, so as we be not troubled hereafter, or hear of the like com∣plaints to continue; and so we bid your Lordships right hearti∣ly farewell.

Your Lordships Loving friends,

• Will. Burleps,
• George Shrewsbury,
• A. Warwick,
• R. Leicester.
• C. Howard.
• I. Croft.
• Chr. Hatton.
• Fra. Walsingham.

Amongst these Privy Councellors, I miss one who was mainly materiall, namel, S^r. Francis Knowls, treasurer of the Queens Household, and Kⁿt. of the Garter: Father in law to the Earl of Leicester, and no less conside∣rable in himself then in his relations, this Knight being bred a banished man in Germany during the Reign of Queen Mary, and conversing with M^r. Cal∣vin at Geneva, was never after fond of Episcopacy, and though now casu∣ally absent from the Councell Board, was a great Patron of the Nonconfor∣mists. But see the Arch-Bishops answer to their letter.

IT may please your good Lordships to be advertized, that I have received your letters of the twentieth of this moneth, with a Schedule inclosed therein, concerning certain Ministers in Essex, where∣unto as yet I cannot make any full answer, by reason of the absence of my Lord of London, to whom the letter is also directed, and the

parties therein named best known as being in his Diocess. Never∣theless in the mean time, I thought it my part to signifie unto your Lordships that I hope the information to be in most parts unjust. Certain men being in and about Mauldon, because they cannot have such among them as by disorderliness do best content their humours, did not long since in like manner in a generality, make an informa∣tion to the same effect, which coming to mine, and others hands of the Ecclesiastical commission, we did direct our letters to some of the principal of them by name, requiring them to exhibite unto us at the beginning of this next tearm, now next ensuring the names of such offencive Ministers, as they thought to be touched with such dishonest conversation, together with their proofs thereof, promising on our parts to see the same redressed accordingly: It seemeth by this which is exhibited now to your Lordships, they have prevented the time, hoping thereby to alter the course; whereunto it tendeth. I leave to your Lordships consideration: surely if the Ministers be such as this Schedule reporteth, they are worthy to be grievously punished. And for my own part, I will not be slack or remisse (Godwilling) there∣in, But if that fall out otherwise upon tryal, and that they, or many of them in respect of their obedience to her Majesties laws, be thus depraved by such as impugne the same, then I doubt not but your Lordship will judge those amusers to deserve just punishment. This I can assure your Lordships of, that my Lord of London affirmed in my hearing, that not long since upon that occasion that none or few at his, or his Arch-Deacons visitations had at any time by the Church∣wardens or sworn men, been detected or presented for any such mis∣demeanours as are now supposed against them. Of the Preachers, which are said to be put there to silence, I know but few. Notwith∣standing I know those few to be very factious in the Church, contemp∣ners in sundry points of the Ecclesiasticall laws, and chief authors of disquietness in that part of the Country; And such as I for my part cannot (doing my duty with a good conscience) suffer without their further conformity to execute their ministry. But your Lordships God willing shall have a more particular answer to every point of your letter, when my Lord of London (who is now at his house in the Country) and I shall meet and have conferred thereupon. In the mean time I trust, that neither there, nor elsewhere within this pro∣vince, either by my self or others of my brethren any thing is o•• shall be done, which doth not tend to the peace of the Church, the work∣ing of obedience to laws established, the encouragement of the most, the Godliest, and most learnedst Ministers in this Church of England, and to the Glory of God; To whose protection I commit your good Lordships.

Now although we finde S^r. Christopher Hatton (for companies sake, as we humbly conceive it) amongst the Privie Councellors, subscribbing for mode∣ration to non-conformists, yet we take him to be a zealous Stickler for the pressing Church Ceremony. And although I look on the words of the Jesu∣ite as a meer scandal, when he saith, that this Hatton was Animo Catholicus a Papist in his heart, yet I know him to be no favourer of the Presbyterian party; But a great countenancer of Whitgifts proceedings against them, as appears by the following Address of the Arch-Bishop unto him.

To Sr. Christopher Hatton.

Right Honorable,

I give you most hearty thanks for that most friendly message which you sent unto me by your man M^r, Kemp, I shall think my self bound unto you therefore as long as long as I live. It hath not a little comforted me, having received not long since unkinde speeches where I least looked for them, only for doing my duty in the most ne∣cessary business which I have in hand: I marvell how it should come to passe, that the selfsame persons will seem to wish peace, and uni∣formity in the Church, and to mislike of the contentious, and diso∣bedient sort, cannot abide that any thing should be done against them, wishing rather the whole Ministry of the land to be discountenanced and discouraged, then a few wayard persons (of no account in compa∣rison) suppressed and punished. Men in executing the laws accord∣ing to their duties were wont to be encouraged, and backed hy such, but now it falleth out clean contrary. Disobedient wifull persons (I will tearm them no worse) are animated▪ Laws contemned, her Majesties will and pleasure little regarded, and the executors there∣of in word and deed abused, howbeit these overthwarts grieve me, yet I thank God, they cannot withdraw me from doing that duty in this cause, which I am perswaded God himself, her Majesty, the laws, and the State of this Church, and Commonwealth, do require of me. In respect whereof, I am content to sustain all these displea∣sures, and fully resolved not to depend upon man, but upon God, and her Majesty. and therefore your honour in offering me that great curtesie, offered unto me as great a pleasure as I can desire. Her Majesty must be my refuge, and I beseech you that I may use you as a means when occasion shall serve, whereof I assure my self, and therein rest.

John Cantuar.

As for the Lord Burleigh, such was his moderation, that both parties beheld him as their friend, carrying matters not with Passion, and prejudice, but prudently as became so great a Statesman. He was neither so rigid as to have conformity prest to the Height, nor so remiss as to leave Ministers to their own liberty. He would argue the case both in discourse, and by let∣ters, with the Arch-Bishop. Amongst many of the latter kinde, let not the Reader grudge to peruse this here inserted.

IT may please your Grace, I am sorry to trouble you so often as I doe, but I am more troubled my self, not only with many pri∣vate petitions of sundry Ministers recommended for persons of credit, and for peaceable persons in their Ministry, and yet by com∣plaints

to your Grace, and other your Colleagues in Commission greatly troubled: But also I am daily now charged by Councellers, and publick persons to neglect my duty, in not staying of those your Graces proceedings, so vehement, and so Generall against Ministers and Preachers, as the Papists are thereby greatly incouraged, and all evill disposed persons amongst the Subjects animated, and there∣by the Queens Majesties safety endangered; with these kinde of argu∣ments I am daily assayled: against which I answer, That I think your Grace doth nothing, but being duly examined, tendeth to the maintenance the Religion established, and to avoid schism in the Church. I also have for example shewed by your papers sent to me, how fully the Church is furnished with Preachers, and how small a number there are that do contend for their singularity. But these reasons do not satisfie all persons, neither do I seek to satisfie all per∣sons, but with reason, and truth. But now my good Lord, by chance I have come to the sight of an instrument of 24 Articles of great length and curiosity, formed in a Romish stile, to examine all man∣ner of Ministers in this time without distinction of Persons, which Articles are intituled apud Lambeth Ma••j. 1584. to be executed, Ex officio mero &c. and upon this occasion I have seen them. I did re∣commend unto your Graces favour two Ministers Curates of Cam∣bridge-shire, to be favourably heard, and your Grace wrote to me that they were contentious, Seditious, and persons vagrant maintai∣ning this controversy, wherewith I charged them sharply, and they both denied those charges, and required to be tryed, and so to re∣ceive punishment: I answered, that your Grace would so charge them, and then Ishould see afterwards what they should deserve, and advised them to resort to your Grace, comforting them that they should finde favourable proceedings, and so I hope upon my former commendations the rather. What may be said to them I know not, nor whether they have been so faulty as your Grace hath been informed do I know, Neither do I mean to treat for to f••vour such men, for pardon I may speak upon their amendment. But now they coming to me, I offer how your Grace proceeded with them. They say, they are commanded to be examined by the Regi∣ster at London, and I asked them whereof? they said of a great num∣ber of Articles; But they could have no Copies of them: I answe∣red that they might answer to the truth; they said that they were so many in number, and so divers, as they were affraid to answer them, for fear of captious interpretation. Upon this I sent for the Register, who brought me the Articles, which I have read, and finde so curiously penned, so full of Branches, and Circumstances, that I think the inquisitions of Spain use not so many questions to com∣prehend, and to intrap their preyes. I know your Canonists can de∣fend these with all their particles: But surely under your Graces correction, this Juridicall and Canonicall siftner of poor Ministers, is not to edifie and reform. And in Charity I think they ought not to answer to all these nice points, except they were very notorious offenders in Papistry or heresy. Now good my Lord, bear with my scribling: I write with testimony of a good conscience, I de∣sire the peace of the Church, I desire concord, and unity in the ex∣ercise of our Religion. I fear no sensuall and wilfull recusant: But I conclude, that according to my simple Judgement, this kinde of proceeding is too much savouring the Romish inquisition, and is rather a device to seek for offenders, than to reform any. This was not that charitable instruction that I thought was intended of these

poor Ministers should in some few points have any scrupulous con∣ceptions to be removed, this is not a charitable way, to send them to answer to your common Register, upon so many Articles at one instant, without commodity of instruction by your Register, whose office is only to receive their answers, by which the parties are first subject to condemnation before they be taught their errors. It may be I say that Canonists may maintain this proceeding by rules of their laws: But though omnia licent, omnia non expediunt, I pray your Grace bear this, (and perchance a fault) that I have willed them not to answer these Articles, except their consciences may suffer them: And yet I have sharply admonished them, that if they be disturbers in their Churches, they must be corrected. And yet upon your Graces answer to me Ne sutor ultra crepidam, neither will I put falcem in alterius m••ssem: my paper teacheth me to make an end, your Grace must pardon my hasty writing, for that I have done this Raptim and without Correction.

Your Graces at command, William Burghley.

One may say, is not the hand of M^r. Travers in all this? Who being the Lord Burghleys Chaplain, by him much respected, and highly affected to the Geneva Discipline, was made the mouth of the Ministers, to mediate to his Lord in their behalf. But it seems the Arch-Bishop had set up his resolu∣tion (called constancy, by some, Cruelty, by others, as they stand affected) whose unmoveableness herein will appear by his following Letter.

To the Lord Treasurer.

MY singular good Lord, in the very beginning of this action, and so from time to time, I have made your Lordship ac∣quainted with all my doings, and so answered all objections, and reasons to the contrary, as I perswade my self no just reply can be made thereunto. I have likewise by your Lordships advice, chosen this kinde of proceeding with them, because I would not touch any for not subscribing only, but for breach of order in celebrating of Divine service, administring the Sacraments, and executing other Ecclesiasticall functions, according to their fancies, and not accord∣ing to the form of law prescribed, which neither your Lordship, nor any other seemed to mislike, but to wish and require: And there∣fore I am much troubled at your last Letters, which seem so to be written, as though your Lordship had not been in these points already answered. The complaints which your Lordship saith are made of me, and other my Colleagues, have hitherto been generall, and therefore cannot otherwise be answered, but by a bare deniall. But if any man shall charge me or them with particularities, I doubt not but we are, and shall be ready to answer them, and to justifie our doings. My proceedings are neither so vehement, nor so gene∣rall against Ministers, and Preachers, as some pretend; doing me therein great injury, I have divers times satisfied your Lordship

therein if any offence be, it is in bearing too much with them, and using of them so friendly, which causeth them thus contrary to their duties to trouble the Church, and to withstand me their Ordinary, and lawfull Judge. The objection of incouraging the Papists &c. hath neither probability nor likelihood. For how can Papists be animated by urging of men to subscribe against the Popes supremacy, and to the justifying of the book of Common-Prayers, and Articles of Religion which they so greatly condemne. But Papists &c. are anima∣ted, because they see these kind of persons, which herein after a sort come in with them, so greatly so many borne with, and so animated, and maintained in their disordered doings, against both Gods Laws, and mans; and against their Chief Governours both Civill, and Ecclesiasticall. This I say incourageth the Papists, and maketh much for them; the other is but a fallacy, â non causa ad causam. O my Lord, I would to God some of those who use this argument, had no Papists in their Families, and did not otherwise also countenance them; whereby indeed, they receive incouragement, and do be∣come too malepert. Assure your self the Papists are rather grieved at my proceedings, because they tend to the taking away of their chief Argument; that is, that, we cannot agree among our selves, and that we are not of the Church, because we lack unity. And I am credibly informed, that the Papists give incouragement to these men, and commend them in their doings, hereof I have also some experience. But if these reasons, and sundry others, notwithstand∣ing some will not be satisfied thereby: I am sure your Lordship thinketh it not convenient to yield unto their wills, but unto their reasons. Touching the 24, Articles which your Lordship seemeth so to mislike, as written in a Romish stile, smelling of a Romish inquisition &c. I cannot but greatly marvell at your Lordships ve∣hement speeches against them, I hope without cause. The men are Preachers, peaceable, your Lordship saith, and that they are orderly, and observe the Books, as some of them say of themselves: and you think it not meet that being such persons, they should be deprived for not subscribing only, wherein I have yielded unto you, and therefore have caused these Articles to be drawn according to Law, by the best learned in the Laws: who I dare say hate the Romish doctrine, and the Romish inquisition, to the intent I may truly un∣derstand whether they are such manner of men or no, as they pre∣tend to be, which I also take to be the ordinary course in other Courts: as in the Sar-Chamber, and other places. Sure I am it is most usuall in the Court of the Marches (Arches rather) whereof I have the best experience. And without offence be it spoken, I think these Articles more tolerable, and better agreeing with the rule of justice, and charity, and less captious then those in other Courts, because there men are often examined at the rela∣tion of a private man, concerning private crimes, & de propriâ turpitudinê: whereas here men are only examined of their publick actions in the publick calling, and Ministry, and much more in the cause of Heresie: because the one toucheth life, and the other not. And therefore I see no cause why our Judiciall, and Canonicall pro∣ceedings in this point should be misliked. Your Lordship writeth, that the two for whom you write are peaceable persons, that they deny the things wherewith they are charged, and desire to be tried &c. Now they are to be tried, why do they refuse it? Qui malè agit, odit Lucem; Indeed they shew themselves to be such as I have before shewed to your Lordship, the most troublesome persons in all

that Countrey: and one of them M^r Brown is presented for his disor∣ders by the sworn men of the parish, as I am informed by the Official there. Wherefore I beseech your Lordship not to believe them against me, either own words, or testimony of any such as animate them in their disobedience, and count disorder order, and contenti∣on peace, before they be duly and orderly tried according to that Law which is yet in force, and will hardly in my opinion, in these Judi∣cial actions be bettered, though some abuse may be in the Execution thereof, as there. I elsewhere also; and that peradventure more abundantly. Your Lordship saith these Articles are a device rather to seek for offenders, then to reform any: The like may be said of the like orders in other Courts also; but that were the fault of the Judg, not of the Law. And I trust your Lordship hath no cause to think so evil of me. I have not dealt with any as yet, but such as have given evident tokens of contempt of Orders and Laws. which my Acts remaining on Record will testifie; and though the Register do examin them (as I think other officers do in other Courts likewise, and the Law doth allow of it) yet are they repeated before a Judg, where they may reform, add or diminish, as they think good; nei∣ther hath there been any man thus examined, or otherwise dealt with, who hath not been conferred with, or might not have been if he would, these two especially; And if they have otherwise reported to your Lordship, they do but antiquum obtinere, which is to utter un∣truths; a quality wherewith these kinde of men are marvelously pos∣sessed, as I on my own knowledge, and experience, can justifie against divers of them. I know your Lordship desireth the peace of the Church, and unity in Religion, but how is it possible to be procured (after so long liberty, and lack of discipline) if a few persons so meanly qualified, as most of them are, shall be countenanced against the whole estate of the Clergie, of greatest account both for learning, years, stayedness, wisdom, Religion, and honesty? And open brea∣kers, and impugners of the Law, yong in years, proud in conceit, contentious in disposition, maintained against their Governours, seek∣ing to reduce them to order, and obedience; Haec sunt initia haereti∣corum, & ortus atque conatus Schismaticorum malè cogitantium, ut sibi placeant, ut praepositum superbo tumore contemnant; sic ab Ecclesia receditur, sic altare profanum collocatur foris, sic contra pacem Christi & ordinationem atque unitatem Dei rebellatur; for my own part, I neither have done, nor do any thing in this matter, which I do not think in my consci∣ence, and duty, I am bound to do, which her Majestie hath with ear∣nest charge committed unto me, and which I am not well able to ju∣stifie to be most requisite for this State and Church, whereof next to her Majestie, though most unworthy, or at least most unhappy, the chief, is committed unto me, which I will not by the grace of God neglect, whatsoever come upon me. Therefore I neither care for the honour of the place (which is onus to me) nor the largeness of the Revenues, nor any other worldly thing. I thank God, in respect of doing my duty, neither do I fear the displeasure of man, nor the evil tongues of the uncharitable, who call me Tyrant, Pope, Knave, and lay to my charge things which I never thought, Scio hoc enim opus esse diabolt, ut servos Dei mendacio laceret, & opinionibus falsis gloriosum no∣men infamet, ut qui conscientiae suae luce clarescunt, alienis rumoribus sordi∣dentur. So was Cyprian himself used, and other ancient and Godly Bishops, to whom I am not comparable. The day will come, when all mens hearts shall be opened; in the mean time I will depend on him, who never forsakes those that put their trust in him. If your

Lordship shall keep those two from answering according to the order set down, it will be of it self a setting at liberty of all the rest, and of undoing of all that which hitherto hath been done; neither shall I be able to do my duty according to her Majesties expectation; And therefore I beseech your Lordship to leave them unto me; I will not proceed against them, till I have made you privy to their answers, and further conferred with you about them; because I see your Lord∣ship so earnest in their behalf; whereof also they have made publick boasts (as I am informed) which argueth what manner of persons they are: I beseech your Lordship to take not onely the length, but also the matter of this Letter in good part, and to continue to me as you have done, whereof I doubt not: for assuredly if you forsake me (which I know you will not after so long triall and experience, with continuance of so great friendship) especially in so good a cause, I shall think my coming to this place, to have been for my punish∣ment; and my hap very hard, that when I think to deserve best, and in a manner to consume my self, to satisfie that which God, her Ma∣jestie, the Church, requireth of me, should be so evil rewarded, Sed meliora spero. And I know your Lordship doth all, as you are perswaded, for the best; I beseech God long to bless and preserve you.

John Cantuar.

It seemes the Lord Treasurer took exceptions at some passages herein, I dare not say with those, That the Letter was brought to him when he was indi∣sposed with the fit of the Gout, which made him so offended. But what so∣ever was the cause of his passion, see some signs thereof in what followeth.

I Have Received your Graces Letter, answering sundry speeches, as I think, delivered by your Chaplain, Doctor Cozens, and I perceive you are sharply moved to blame me, and clear your self: I know I have many faults, but I hope I have not given such cause of offence, as your Letter expresseth. I deny nothing that your Grace thinketh meet to proceed in, with these whom you call factious; and therefore there is no controversie between you, and me, expressed in your Letter: the controversie is passed in your Gra∣ces Letter in silence; and so I do satisfie; your Grace promised me to deal, I say onely with such as violated order, and to charge them therewith, which I allow well of. But your Grace not charging them with such faults, seeketh by examination to urge them to accuse themselves; and then I think you will punish them: I think your Graces proceeding is, I will not say rigorous or captious, but I think it is scant charitable; I have no leisure to write more, and therefore I will end, for writing will but increase offence, and I mean not to offend your Grace, I am content that your Grace, and my Lord of Lon∣don, where I hear Brown is, use him as your wisdoms shall think meet; If I had known his fault, I might be blamed for writing for him, but when by examination onely it is meant to sift him with twenty four Articles, I have cause to pitty the poor man.

Your Graces as friendly as any, WILL. BURLEY.

Short but sharp. I see though anger only restetha in the Bosome of Fools, it may light on the Brest of a wise man. But no fear that these friends will finally fall out, who alternately were passionate, and patient. So that now it came to the turn of Whitgift to be calme, as he expressed himself in the fol∣lowing return.

To the Lord Treasurer.

My singular good Lord,

GOd knoweth how desirous I have been from time to time to sa∣tisfie your Lordship in all things, and to have my doings ap∣proved to you. For which cause since my coming to this place, I have done nothing of Importance without your advice, I have risen early, and sat up late, to write unto you such objections, and an∣swers as on either side were used, I have not the like to any man, and shall I now say I have lost my labour, or shall my just dealing with two of the most disordered Ministers in a whole Diocess (the obstinacy, and contempt of whom, especially of one of them, you your self would not bear in any subjected to your authority) cause you so to think, and speak of my doings: yea, and of my self, no man living should have made me believe it. Solomon saith, an old friend is better then a new, and I trust your Lordship will not so lightly cast off your old friends, for any of these new fangled, and factious sectaries, whose fruits are to make divisions wheresoever they come, and to separate old, and assured friends. Your Lord∣ship seemeth to charge me with breach of promise, touching my man∣ner of proceeding, whereof I am no way guilty, but I have altered my first course of depriving them for not subscribing only, justifiable by the Law, and common practice both in the time of King Edward, and from the beginning of her Majesties Reign, and chosen this only to satisfie your Lordship. Your Lordship also objecteth, that it is said, I took this course for the better maintenance of my book, my enemies say so indeed, but I trust my friends have a better opinion of me; what should I seek for any confirmation of my book, after twelve years, or what should I get thereby more then already? And yet if subscription may confirme it, it is confirmed long agoe by the sub∣scription of all the Clergy almost in England before my time, even of Brain also who now seemeth to be so willfull. Mine Enemies and tongues of this slanderous and uncharitable sect report, that I am revolted and become a Papist, and I know not what, but it proceedeth from their lewdnesse, not from any desert of mine; and I disdain to answer to any such notorious untruths, which the best of them dare not avouch to my face. Your Lordship seemeth further to burden me with wilfulness, I am sure that you are not so perswaded of me, I will appeal to your own conscience. There is difference betwixt wilfullness, and constancie, I have taken upon me the de∣fence of the Religion, and rights of the Church of England, to ap∣pease the sects of schisms therein, and to reduce all the Ministers thereof to uniformity, and due obedience herein, I intend to be con∣stant, and not to waver with every winde; The which also my place, my person, my duty, the laws, her Majesty, and the good∣ness of the cause doth require of me, and wherein your Lordship and

others (all things considered) ought in duty to asist, and counte∣nance me. It is strange that a man in my place, dealing by so good warranties as I do, should be so incountred, and for not yielding to be counted wilfull, but I must be contented, Vincit qui patitur, and if my friends forsake me herein, I trust God will not, neither the Law, nor her Majesty who hath laid the charge on me, and are able to protect me. But of all other things it most grieveth me, if your Lordship should say, that two Ministers fare the worse because your Lordship hath sent them. Hath your Lordship ever had any cause so to think of me? It is needless for me to protest my heart, and affection towards you above all other men, the world knoweth it, and I am assured that your Lordship nothing doubteth thereof; I have rather cause to complain to your Lordship of your self, that upon so small an occasson, and in the behalf of two such you will so hardly conceive of me, yea, and as it were countenance persons so meanly qualified in so evill a cause against me, your Lordships so long tried friend, and their Ordinary. That hath not so been in times past, now it should least of all be, I may not suffer the notorious contempt of one of them especially, unless I will become Fsops Block, and undoe all that which hitherto have been done. Well, because I would be loath to omit any thing whereby your Lordship might be satisfied, I have sent unto you herein inclosed certain reasons to justifie the manner of my proceedings, which I marvel should be so misliked in this cause, having been so long practised in the same, and never before this time found fault with. Truly my Lord I must proceed this way, or not at all, the reasons I have set down in this paper. And I heartily pray your Lordship, not to be carried away, either from the cause, or from my self upon unjust surmises, and clamours, lest you be the occasion of that confusion which here∣after you would be sorry for. For mine own part I desire no further defence in these occasions: neither of your Lordship, nor any o∣ther, then Justice, and Law will yield unto me. In my own pri∣vate affairs, I know I shall stand in need of friends, especially of your Lordship, of whom I have made alwayes an assu••ed account; but in these publick actions, I see no cause why I should seek for friends, seeing they to whom the care of the Commonwealth is committed, ought of duty therein to joyne with me. To conclude, I am your Lordships assured, neither will I ever be perswaded, but you do all even of hearty good will towards me.

John Cantuar

Now amongst all the favourers of the Presbyterians, surely honesty, and wisdom, never met more in any then in S^r. Francis Walsingham, of whom it may be said (abate for the disproportion) as of S^t. Paul, though poore yet making many rich. Having but one only Daughter (whole extraordinary hand∣somnesse, with a moderate portion would considerably prefer her in marriage. He neglected wealth in himself, though I may say, he enriched many (not only his dependants but,) even the English Nation, by his prudent steering of State affairs. How he interceded to qualifie the Arch-Bishop, for a Semi-non conformist, we learn from his following Letter.

IT may please your Grace to understand, that this bearer M^r. Lever∣wood, of whom I wrote unto your Grace, hath been here with me, and finding him very conformable, and willing to observe such or∣ders as are appointed to be used in the Church, as your Grace shall partly perceive by certain Articles subscribed with his own hand, and herein inclosed, I willed him to repair unto your Grace; And in case these Articles may be allowed, then I pray your Grace to be his good Lord, and that with your good will and favour he may proceed in his suit; upon knowledge whereof, I do mean to deal further therein with her Majesty thereof for him, as I have already begun to do, upon the good report I heard of the man, before your Graces message sent to M^r. Nicasius for the stay thereof. And so I humbly take my leave.

Your Graces at command Francis Walsingham.

What this Letter effected, the next will informe us,

Right Honourable,

I thank you heartily for your letter, written unto me in the be∣half of Leverwood, wherein I perceive the performance of your honorable speeches to my self, in promising to joyne with me, a∣gainst such as shall be breakers of the orders of the Church establish∣ed: and movers of contentions therein upon that, and other like speeches of yours with me at your last being at Lambeth, I have for∣born to suspend or deprive any man already placed in any cure or charge, for not subscribing only, if hereafter he would promise unto me in writing, the observing of the Book of Common-Prayer, and the orders of the Church by law set••down: and I do now re∣quire subscription to the said Articles, of such only as are to be ad∣mitted to the Ministry, and to Ecclesiasticall livings, wherein I finde my self something eased of my former troubles: and as yet none or very few of the last named persons, to refuse to subscribe to the said Articles, though some of them have been accounted heretofore very precise. I also very well remember that it was her own wish, and desire, that such as hereafter should be admitted to any living, should in like manner be tied to the observing the orders: which as it hath already wrought some quietness in the Church, so I doubt not but that it will in time perfect the same. And I cannot break that order in one, but other will look for the like favour, to the re∣newing, and increasing of the former Atheisme, not yet already ex∣tinguished. Wherefore I heartily pray you to joyn with me here∣in. Touching the Articles inclosed in your letter, whereunto Le∣verwood hath subscribed: they are of no moment, but such as may easily be deluded. For whereas he first saith, that he will willingly subscribe as far as the law requireth at his hand, his meaning is, that the law requireth no such subscription, for so I am informed that some Lawyers (therein deceived) have perswaded him and others,

and in saying that he will alwayes in the Ministry use the Book of Common-Prayer, and none else, his meaning is, that he will use but so much of the Book as pleaseth him, and not that he will use all things in the Book required of him. I have dealt with him in some particularities, which he denieth to use, and therefore his subscription is to small purpose. I would, as neer as I can, promise, that none should hereafter come into the Church to breed new trou∣bles, I can be better occupied otherwise. And God would bless our labours more amply, and give better success to the word so com∣monly and diligently preached if we could be at peace, and quietness among our selves, which I most hartily wish, and doubt not to bring to pass by Gods grace, the rather through your good help, and assistance, whereof I assure my self, and so with my hearty prayers &c.

John Cantuar.

Thus have we presented to the Reader some select Letters out of many in my hand, passing betwixt the highest persons in Church matters. I count it a blessing that providence hath preserved such a treasure un∣plundred, esteem it a favour in such friends as imparted them unto me, and conceive it no ungratefull act in our communicating the same to the Reader. And now we (who hitherto according to good manners have held our peace, while such who were farr our betters, by their pens spake one to another) begin to resume our voice, and express our selves as well as we may in the following History.

10. By the changing of Edmond into John Cantuar. It plainly ap∣pears, that as all these letters were written this year, so they were in∣dited after the sixth of July, (and probably about December) when BP. Grindal deceased. Our English Eli, for office (highest in spirituall pro∣motion) age (whereby both were blinde) and manner of his death, thus far forth as heart-broken with sorrow. Grindals grief proceeded from the Queens displeasure, undeservedly procured by the practises of his ma∣licious enemies. There want not those who will strain the paralel betwixt Eli and Grindal in a fourth respect, both being guilty of dangerous indul∣gence, and lenity to offenders. Indeed Grindal, living, and dying sole, and single, could not be cockering to his own children; but as a Father of the Church, he is accused for too much conniving at the factious disturbers thereof. Sure I am, he was an impartial correcter of mens vicious conver∣sations: witness his sharp reproving of Julio the Italian Physician, for marrying another mans wife. Which bitter, but wholsome pill, the Phy∣sician himself not being able to disgest, incensed the Earl of Leicester, and he the Queens Majesty against the good Arch-bishop. But all was put on the account of Grindals non-conformity, for favouring the factious mee∣tings, called Prophesyings. Grindal, sensible of the Queens displeasure, desired to resigne his place, and confine himself to a yearly pension: not, as some may pretend, that it was against his conscience to keep it; but because above his impotent age to mannage so great a charge. The place was proffered to Whitgift, but he in the presence of the Queen utterly re∣fused it: yet, what he would not snatch, soon after fell into his hands by Grindals death.

11. Who so beholds the large revenues conser'd on Grindal, the long time he enjoyed them (Bishop of London, Arch-Bishop of York, and Can∣terbury, above eighteen years) the little charge incumbring him, dying a single man, will admire at the mean estate he left behind him. Yea, per∣chance they will erroneously impute this to his prodigality, which more truly is to be ascribed to his contempt of the world, unwilling to die guilty of much wealth; not to speak of fat Servants made under a lean Master. The little he had, as it was well gotten, was well bestowed, in pious uses on Cambridge, and Oxford, with the building, and endowing of a School at S^t. Bees in Cumberland, where he was born. Yea, he may be beheld as a benefactour to the English nation, for bringing Tamaríx first over into England. As the inventers of evill things are justly taxed by thea Apostle: so the first importers of good things deserve due commen∣dation; That plant being so soveraign to mollifie the hardness of the spleen; a malady whereof Students (betrayed thereunto by their seden∣tarie lives) too generally do complain.

Notes

• A forme of Discipline considered of by the Bre∣thren in a so∣lemn Synod with the seve∣rall Decrees thereof.
• a

  Under Mr. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 hand (〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the ••spand) 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Bancrofi his dangerous positions. pag. 46.
• Several ob∣servations on these De∣crees.
• a

  In his Admonitions pag 163. Section 2.
• A blasphe∣mous Here∣rick reclai∣med.
• a

  See Mr. Smiths Ser∣mon of the lost sheep found.
• The Character of Mr. Henry Smith.
• b

  About the year 1500, as I am inform'd by his bro∣ther.
• The death of Rich. Bristow.
• ••itzaeus de illustribus Argl. scrip∣tor.
• The death of Nicholas Harpsfield.
• The death of Gregory Mar∣tin.
• Letter Histo∣ry best Histo∣ry.
• Objection against Let∣ter want of Date answe∣red.
• Anno. Dom. 1583.
• Anno Regin Eliza. 26.
• The petition of the Kentish Ministers.
• The Arch-Bishops letter in answer thereof.
• The character of Mr. Beal, who brought the Bills.
• a

  Camden in his Elizabetha pag. 359.
• Arch Bishop Whi••gift his Letter com∣plaining of Beals insolent carriage to∣wards him.
• a

  Robert Beal Esabque; Stow his survey of London pag. 183.
• The Privie Councellers Letter to the Arch Bishop in favour of the noncom∣formists.
• The Arch-Bishops an∣swer to the Privy Coun∣cellours Let∣ter.
• Peter Rihade∣neira in his Appendix to Sanders pag. 41.
• The Arch-Bish••ps gra∣tulatory let∣ter to Sr. Christopher Hatton.
• The Treasu∣••ers Letter to the Arch-Bishop, for some Indul∣gence to the Ministers.
• The return of the Arch-Bishop of Cant. to the L. Treasurers Letter.
• The L. Trea∣surers smart Letter to the Arch-Bishop.
• a

  Eccles. 7. 9.
• The Arch-Bishops calm Letter to the half-angry Treasurer.
• Sr. Fra. Wal∣singham a good friend to nonconfor∣mists.
• St. Francis Walsinghams Letter to the Arch. Bishop in favour of non-confor∣mists.
• Anno Dom. 1583. Anno Regi•• Eliza. 26.
• The Arch∣Bishops an∣swer to secre∣tary Walsing∣••a••s Letter.
• A transition to other matter.
• Good Grindal his death.
• 〈…〉〈…〉
• a

  •• Rom. 1. 13.