Golden remains of the ever memorable Mr. John Hales ... with additions from the authours own copy, viz., sermons & miscellanies, also letters and expresses concerning the Synod of Dort (not before printed), from an authentick hand.

Mr HALES LETTERS From the SYNOD of DORT TO THE Right Honourable Sr. DUDLEY CARLTON, Lord Embassador, &c.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

MAy it please your honour: We arrived at Dort this last night betwixt six and seven of the clock; our passage was without any impediment at all, and wheresoever we were to take boat still we found some ready to put off, as if they had waited our coming. Immediate∣ly upon my arrival I went to My Lord Bishop, and assoon as I had done my message unto him, I fortwith went to Mon∣sieur Bogermannus, who humbly thanks your Honour for your great courtesie towards him, and promises to acquaint your Lordship by me with whatsoever passes in the Synod: had he known of so con∣venient meanes of writing to your Lordship, I suppose he would have written: but when I spake with him I knew not so much my self. Festus Hommius and Polyander I have not yet seen, and it will be the afternoon ere I shall speak with them, because this morning they have a sitting. Whatsoever hath past in the Synod formerly, your Lordship shall understand by a packet from my Lord Bishop; whatsoever speeches or other passages are to be copyed I shall this afternoon get of Mr. President, & I will not fail to send your Honour the transcripts of them, when Daniel returns. What shall be disputed

of or decided in the next Sessions at the Synod, I will at large in form your Lordship by the next messenger, mean time I humbly take my leave.

From Dort this 14/24 of Novemb. 1618.

Your Lordships Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

YOur Honour shall here receive inclosed an index of all the acts of the Synod since the beginning, till the 16/2•• of this present. It is not that which I required, but is so much as Festus Hommius (whose writing it is) could spare your Lordship. My desire was to obtain not only the bare conclusions, but the whole manner of proceeding, with all particulars propounded and concluded in the Synod: but it seems this was thought nimis grande postulatum. If I can come so far to perfit my notes of all the former sessions, as that I shall be able to express them in form as I did the session, on Saturday last, and by Gods help will express the following sessions, I will in time acquaint your Lordship with it. Mean while I come to the session on Monday morning 16/•••• of this present.

It had been in some of the Former sessions determined that there should be chosen six Divines for the Translation of the Bible, three for the Old Testament, and three for the New with the Apocrypha: and likewise Revisors one out of every Province, to whom the work being done should be brought to be revised and censur'd. In this present Session they proceed to the choice of them. The manner of election was by Scrutiny: the Deputies in every Province in Scripto exhibiting one. The Scrutators were two of the Seculars, D. Simon Schottus, Secretary of Middleburrough, and President this week , and Martinus Gregorii, these calculated the voices and pronounced the election. And first for the translation of the Old Testament were chosen these three, Ioh. Bogermannus, Guil. Baudaritus, and Gerson Bucerus: for the translation of the New, were chosen Iac. Rolandus, Hermannus Fauckelius, and Petrus Cornelii. From these they proceed to the nomination of the revi∣sors. Here arose a doubt concerning the province of Utrecht. For because they are equally divided three Contra-Remonstrants, and and three Remonstrants, they could not agree upon the nomination of a Revisor for that Province, which thing bred a demurre in the

Synod. The Praeses required the judgment of the Synod, what they thought fit to be done. Some thought they might be alto∣gether past by. For there would be Revisors enough, though that Province chose none. Others thought fit it should be de∣ferr'd till the end of the Synod, and then some one of that Pro∣vince should be chosen communibus suffragiis totius Synodi. A third sort determined that it should be deferr'd till that Pro∣vince were reconciled in it self, (which it was hoped would be at the end of the Synod) and then they should name some one of their Province to be approved by the rest of the Translators and Revisors; and this sentence past for currant. So that for the present there is no Revisor for the Province of Utrecht. Another doubt yet was moved, for one of the Provinces had named two paribus suffragiis: the question was who should stand. It pleased the Synod to put it to Lots. And so the Praeses wrote their names in two little Tickets of paper, each by it self, and rould them up, and delivered them to Martinius Gregorius; that which he took stood, that which he refused, was presently torn. The Revisors for the Old Testament were these, ex Gel∣dria Ant. Tysius: ex Suyd-Hollandia Io. Polyander: ex North-Holl. P. Plancius: ex Zelandia Iod. Larenus: ex Frisia Sibrandus Lub∣bertus: ex Transisulania Iac. Revius: ex Groning. D. Gomarus: ex Drentia Onias Boethus. The Revisors for the New Testament were these. Ex Geldria Seb. Dammannus: ex Suyd-Holl. Festus Hommius: ex North-Holl. Goswinus Geldorpius: ex Zelandia Ant. Walaeus: ex Frisia Bern. Fullenius: ex Transisulania Io. Langius: ex Groning. Vbbo Emmius: ex Drentia Io. Cuperus. It was farther enacted, that if any of the Translators should die, or by Sick∣ness became unable for the Service, that then he that was next him in number of voices in the Scrutiny should succeed in his place: If any of the Revisors should die, or be sick, power was given to the Praeses, the two Assessors, and the two Scribes to depute another in his room: and so this Session concluded;

in which though little was done, yet was it long adoing by reason of the Scrutiny.

Upon Tuesday the 17/1•• of this present, the Deputies met in the morning, where the first thing that was propofed was concern∣ing those of Drent. For whereas the day before they had named two Revisors for the Translation, they now upon better advice

require to be excused in that behalf, because in their Province the Belgick Tongue was not well known. Which Petition of theirs was accepted. In the second place it was thought good, that since all the business concerning the Translation was deter∣mined of, there should be a repetition made in the Synod of all that had passed about it: to this purpose, that if any thing were either omitted or misrelated, it might be rectified: forth∣with followed a Narration of all that had been done, where some small exceptions not worth relating were stood upon. In the third place was proposed the defect of the Afternoon Sermons and Catechizing, especially in the Countrey Villages; and the Synod was moved to deliver it self concerning Remedies of this Defect. What had been heretofore decreed in some of their Synods concerning this matter was publickly read. The Impe∣diments were, First the negligence of the Pastors; Secondly Combinations, that is double Benefices, when men having two Cures could not sufficiently attend both: Thirdly the difficul∣ty of reclaiming the Country people on the Sundayes either from the Sports or from their Work. The Synod beginning to con∣sider of means to cut off these abuses, Festus Hommius amongst other things complained, that through the negligence of the Re∣monstrants it came that Catechizing was so much decay'd; which words of his, it is thought, will be an occasion of some choler, though for the present they passed uncontroled. Many delivered their opinions how the forementioned hinderances of Afternoon Sermons and Catechizing might be removed. First by imploring the help of the States General, that it would please them by their Authority to prohibit that ordinary prophana∣tion of the Sabbath by working or playing: Secondly by re∣quiring the like help of the particular Magistrate in every Town and Village: Thirdly by taking away those Combinations: Fourthly by providing of sufficient Schole-Masters in every Vil∣lage who should not only teach Grammar, but instruct Youths in the prnciples of Religion: Fifthly that the Pastors should not o∣mit afternoon Sermons by reason of the negligence of their Au∣ditors, but should perform them, though they brought to the Church none but their own Family: that the Pastors and Dea∣cons and Seniors should deal with their Friends and acquain∣tance and bring them to Church with them. Sixthly that if any

Pastor neglected to perform this Duty, he should be subject to Ecclesiastical Censure. Seventhly that the Deputies of other Nations should be requested to make overture of their Customs in this behalf. Lastly that diligent inquiry should be made through∣out all the Classes, whether Cathechizing and afternoon Ser∣mons were observed. It was decreed that in every Parish there should be two Sermons every Sunday, of which that in the After∣noon was to be Catechetical. That the ministers should give good example by bringing their own Family to Church; that the help of the Magistrate should be implored; that Combinati∣ons should be taken away. When all was done, then was that re∣quired which should have been done afore: the Deputies of o∣ther Nations were desired to deliver their Customs in this behalf. Where first my Lord Bishop shewed that with us in England the Magistrate imposed a pecuniary Mulct upon such as did absent themselves from Divine duties; which pecuniary Mulct generally prevailed more with our people, than any pious admonitions could. Those of the Palsgrave's Countrey shewed that each Sunday they had two Sermons, and such as were absent, were first admonish'd by the Clergy, and if this sufficed not, they requi∣red the help of the Civil Magistrate. Those of Geneva told us, that in the Churches in their Cities they had every Sunday four Sermons, &c. Those of Breme that they had three Sermons, of which one was Catechetical; and to avoid prophanation of the Sabbath, it was not lawful to celebrate any Marriage-feast, or such like upon the Sunday, till six a clock in the Evening. Ma∣ny other things of this nature were related, of which a great deal I could not understand. When all had spoken, the Praeses told them that this proposal was not made because in the Bel∣gick Churches there had not been order taken for Catechizing: and Sermons, but because the Laws formerly made in this be∣half were neglected: and that now means was thought of to bring them in force again. And so they brake up.

I received your Honours Letters of the 16/1•• of this present, in which your Honour requires to be informed of such Proposals as E∣piscopius lately made in behalf of the Arminian Party. The thing is this. Shortly after that the Letters of Citation were sent to the Ar∣minians, Episcopius, with other of the Remonstrants came private∣ly to the Deputies of the States, and exhibited a Remonstrance, in

which they required especially these things. First that all of their Party throughout the Provinces might be allowed to make one Body, and out of it depute such as they thought good, whom they might send to the Synod to plead in their behalf. Se∣condly that it might be lawful for them instead of some of those who are written unto, to substitute others. Thirdly that Vtenbo∣gart and Grevinchovius might have safe Conduct and free access to the Synod. The Delegates immediatly sent for the Praeses, the two Assessors and the two Scribes, and required their opinion in this business. For the first point, the Clergy men thought it not to be granted, as being feared would be prejudicial to the Belgick Churches. The Deputies for the Seculars answered, that they had given Episcopius this answer. For the two latter, the Clergy thought that if it pleased the Seculars it might be done. Reply was made by the Seculars, that they were men infamous, tumultuous, on whom the Church censure, for Grevinchovius had extended, and therefore they would permit them no place in the Synod. So was Episcopius and his Company dismiss'd.

This was a thing done only in private: the Synod had no notice of it, neither is it recorded in any publick Register. What more passed between the Seculars and the Remonstrants at this meeting is not known, and the Clergy know no more than it pleased the Seculars to impart.

Of this I heard nothing, till by reason of your Lordships Letters I enquired into it.

Whilst the Synod was sitting on Tuesday morning, there came in Newes of the death of one of their Company, Henricus ab Hell, Senior of the Church of Zutphaw, who died in the time of the Session. I am desirous to know whether my Letters up∣on Mondy containing the Saturday Session came to your Lord∣ships hands. I intended them by way of Roterdam, but Daniel t••l••s me he delivered them to a Gentleman that went immediately for the Hague, marie what he was he knew not, this hath made me a little jealous. I beseech your Honour, by the next that comes from you hither, by word of mouth to let me know. Mr. Praeses, Festus Hommius, Polyander, Tronchinus of Geneva required me to remember their Love and service to your Honour: and so for this time I humbly take my leave.

From Dort this 1••/2•• of Novemb. 1618.

Your Honours Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, and my very good Lord,

UPon Saturday, the day after my coming to Dort, I went to Festus Hommius, & delivered him your Honours Letters, up∣on perusal of which, he liberally promised me an Index of all what∣soever had past in the Synod until my coming to Town. The time of making his promise good was Sunday morning. When I saw it came not at the time, after dinner I wrote a little note unto him, to put him in mind of his promise, but yet I heard nothing of him. I suppose this falls out by reason of his multipli∣city of business, not that he would sleight your Lordship; though I remember in a speech that passed between him and me, he told me that there passed among the brethren of the Synod a con∣sent de non eliminandis, &c. of not divulging of any passage till all was done, which I interpreted as spoken only upon the by, not with any intent of hindring any intelligence which should be given your Honour. I dealt with Mr. Praeses and with Festus for a Copy of Martinus Gregorii his Oration: the answer from them both was the same, that he would not at a∣ny hand be intreated to deliver a Copy of it, no not so much as the summe of it: whether it was because of some mat∣ter that was in it, as that he spake somewhat roundly in dis∣grace of the Spanyard, or that the Politicks have some end in it, or that he himself is desirous to have it thought that he deli∣vered it only ex tempore, or for what other reason I know not. As concerning what hath passed in the Synod, till I hear farther from Festus, I will acquint your Honour with what past there since my coming.

On Saturday the 14/24 of this present, in the Morning the Depu∣ties met, and debated some things of no great moment, concerning their intended TRANSLATION of the BIBLE. The first thing proposed was, whether the name JEHOVAH should be retained untranslated, or rendred by the Dutch word Heere, as the Greeks 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, the English Lord. The Praeses thought fit it should be rendred Heere, because the Holy Ghost in the New Testament, citing some things out of the Old, renders the Hebrew Iehovah, by the Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, according as the Septuagint had done. This past for currant, till it came to Martinius of Breme, who divided the sentence, aud thought that it might ordinarily so be rendred, if

some places were excepted. And to this purpose he cited some places of Scripture, where the word Iehovah had a peculiar ener∣gy and force, which the Belgick Heere could not attain unto. To the same effect did others speak: and great disputation would have arisen about this point, as whether the Name Ieho∣vah had any points of its own, or borrowed his points from Elo∣him and Adonai, and the like, but that the Praeses still cut them off. It was at length by the greater part concluded, that it should be rendred by the Belgick Heere, which was alwayes to be exprest in Capital Characters, & concerning this the Reader should be advertised farther in the Preface. And when there should be in any place some peculiar force in that word which the Belgick word did not express, of this the Reader should be admonished by a marginal gloss.

The second Proposal was, whether the Hebrew proper Names should be retained, or translated likewise into Dutch. It was concluded they should be retained, for avoiding of all unne∣cessary novelty and alteration. The third proposal was, whe∣ther the antient division of Chapters should remain, for many He∣brew Copies differed from our Common in this point, and some∣time the old division did seem somewhat inconvenient, as that somewhere it brake off in the midst of a matter, somewhere in the midst of a sentence. It was concluded that the old division should remain. For there would arise great confusion in quo∣tations, if the number of Chapters and Verses should alter. As for the variety of other Copies, and inconvenient division, of this the Reader should be advertised in the margent. The fourth proposal was whether there might not be added some Appendices to the Bible, as Chorographical and Topographical Tables, Genealo∣gies, and the like. It was thought fit they should, provided that in the Tables and Maps there were no pictures and babies, for avoiding superstition. The fifth proposal was concerning the appointing of persons fit for the work of the Translation. The Praeses willed that every Province should exhibit by Bill the Names of those, who they knew in their Provinces were of sufficiency for the Translation, which forthwith was done, and the Names that were exhibited were all pronounced in the Synod: but out of these who should be chosen for the work was differed, until the next Session appointed upon the Mon∣day

following: and so with prayer they brake up the meet∣ing.

As I have done in this Session, so will I doe in all the rest, if I shall get convenient place where I may stand and note. For, for any thing I see, mine own notes must be my chiefest help. The matters are but small, but I suppose they will amend when the Arminian Party shall make their appearance. Here is your Honours old Friend come to Town, and passes under the name of a Doctor of Physick. He is to dine with my Lord Bishop this day, but I have discovered him unto his Lordship what he is. I have presumed to keep Daniel with me longer than I determined at my departure; the reason is, because I am unskilful of the streets, and I have not Dutch enough to en∣quire my way; I will shortly send him home. What shall be done in the following Sessions, I will not fail to inform your Lordship by the next Messenger, in the mean while I humbly take my leave.

Dort this 16/12. Novemb. 1618.

Your Honours Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

I have sent your Honour a Catalogue of the Synod Printed here with us.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

ON Wednesday the 1••/2•• of November, those of the Synod me•• in the morning. This Session was only deliberative, for they concluded nothing. The proposal was, what form of catechizing both for children and youths should be thought fittest to be put in practice in the Belgick Churches, The Praeses first spake ma∣ny things learnedly of the necessity of Catechizing, that it was the basis and ground of Religion, and the sole way of trans∣fusing the principles of Christianity into men: that it was very an∣cient, practised by the Patriarchs, by the Apostles, by Origen, and approved by the consent of the Fathers: that from the Neg∣lect of this came the ignorance of the common sort, and that

multitude of sects amongst them, of Papists, Anabaptists, Liber∣tines, &c. whereas if an uniform course of teaching them their first principles had been taken up, there would not have been so many differences: that there was now greater necessity than ever of reviving this custom, because of the Iesuits who mightily labour in this kind, as appeared by some of their acts lately in Fris••a, &c. Next were the Deputies for the strangers called upon to deliver what formes of Catechizing were in their Churches put in use: which they did, and gave them to the Praeses in writing. After these, the Professors, and the other De∣puties spake their mindes, and almost all gave them up in writ∣ing, which were immediately pronounced in publick by the Scribe; and such as spake memoriter, promised to set down their opinions in scripto, and deliver them to the Praeses after dinner. The principal heads on which they insisted, were these: that there might be three degrees of Catechizing, one Domestical, to be practised by Fathers and Masters in their Fa∣milies: another Scholastical to be used by Scholemasters in pub∣lick Scholes: and a third Ecclesiastical to be practised by the Minister in the Church, that so Fathers might fit their Children for the Scholes, the Scholes for the Church: That therefore Parents and Masters should be admonished to look to this duty in their Families: That Scholemasters should be chosen, such as were skilfull themselves to Catechize, and that they should be careful to bring their Scholars to Catechetical Ser∣mons; that from Sermons they should presently call them to the Schole, and there examine them how they had profited: That the Minister of every Parish together with the Seniours and Deacons should monthly or quarterly visit the Scholes, and know the Scholars proficiency in this behalf: that the Ministers before the times of the Communion should repair unto private Families, and Catechize: that the Magistrates would be pleased to pro∣vide stipends for Schole-Masters, so to make them the more chearful: that there should be variety of Catechizing accord∣ing to the variety of the age, one for Children, which should contain The Lords Prayer, the Creed, the Commandments, the Doctrine of the Sacraments, &c. that for such as were elder, o∣ther things should be added according to their capacity: that to take away confusion, one form of Catechism in each kind

should be used; that the Iesuits Catechisms of Lessius, Canisius, Ledesma, &c. should be abolisht. All this and more by sundry men was exhibited in writing, and read in the audience of the Sy∣nod.

That which hitherto hath been done concerns only the man∣ner of Catechizing, as for the matter of the Catechism, that was not now thought fit to be spoken of, but was put off till the end of the Synod. When all had spoken their pleasures the Praeses signified, that he together with the Assessors and Scribes would compare all these Writings together, and out of them all gather one form of Catechizing as they thought best, and exhibit it unto the Synod to be approved of, or altered to their liking. And so the Session ended. Amongst the rest, there were some par∣ticulars told. One of the Deputies of Geldria, to shew the force of Private Catechizing, related that amongst them there was a Minister, who when he first came to his Living, found his Church quite empty, because all his Parishioners were Papists; and therefore if he would preach, he was to preach to the bare Walls: but he takes so much pains as to go to every of his Parish private∣ly unto their Houses, and there by familiar conversing with them, and expounding unto them the grounds of Religion, he so far prevailed with them, that in the compass of a year he gain'd them all to come to Church, and by this means hath scarce a Papist in his Parish. But doubtless the most effectual way of all the rest to bring young persons to learn their Catechisme, was that which was related by one of the Helvetian Deputies. For he told us that in his Country the manner was, that all young persons that meant to marry were to repair, both he and she, unto their Minister, a little before they meant to marry, and by him to be examined how well they had conned their Catechism: If they had not done it per∣fectly to his mind, he had power to defer their Marriage till they had better learnt their Lessons. I was much affected to this course when I heard it; and I thought that doubtless it was a speedy way to make all young persons, excepting my self and two or three more that mean not overhastily to marry, to be skil∣ful in their Catechism. The Synod shall be ill advised if they make no use of it.

Mr. Dean this day is to make a Latin Sermon in the Synod-house, and after that there are certain Supplications exhibi∣ted

to the Synod to be considered of. What they are, and what they contain I will inform your Honour by the next convenient Messenger. I have suffered Daniel to come home, and supply himself of some necessaries, but to return to me again upon Saturday, except your Honour shall otherwise ap∣point. His lodging and diet are provided, and he will be serviceable to me this ill weather, to be sent in business, my self not being so well able in dirt and snow to trace the streets. But this I leave to your Lordships consideration, and for this pre∣sent I humbly take my leave.

From Dort this 19/29 of Novemb. 1618.

Your Lordships Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

UPon Thursday, 19/29 of this present, the Synod being met together, Mr. Dean of Worcester made in the Synod-house a polite and pathetical Latin Sermon; the portion of Scripture he chose for his Theme was the 17th verse of the 6th of Ecclesi∣astes, N••li esse justus nimium, neque esto sapiens nimis. After a witty coming upon his test, how it should come that Righteousness and Wisdom, which are every where com∣mended unto us, should here seem to receive a check, he shewed how men might seem to be too just; First the Seculars, when sitting in place of Justice they stood too strictly in keep∣ing the Letter of the Law, and then by inflicting too heavy punishments, when in equity lighter would serve: next in the second word sapiens nimis, he taxt the Divines for presuming too far in prying into the Judgements of God, and so came to reprove the curious Disputes which our age hath made concern∣ing Predestination; that this Dispute for its endlesness was like the Mathematical line, divisibilis in semper divisibilia; that it was in Divinity, as the Rule of Cos is in Arithmetick. For the ending of these Disputes his advice unto the Synod was, that both parts contending should well consider of S. Pauls discourse in the ninth to the Romans, and for their final determination

both should exhibit unto the Synod a plain perspicuous and fa∣miliar paraphrase on that Chapter. For if the meaning of that Discourse were once perfectly opened, the question were at an end. From hence he came to exhort them to stand to the for∣mer determinations, which had hitherto most generally past in the Reformed Churches, in these points: and told them that it was an especial part of his Majesties Commission to exhort them to keep unalter'd the former Confessions. How fit it was to o∣pen so much of their Commission, and thus to express themselves for a party against the Remonstrants your Honour can best judge. After this he brought a very pathetical conclusion, consisting of a vehement exhortation to peace and union, and so he ended. The Praeses gave him thanks for his good pains, and then told us, whereas it was once purposed to lay open before the Synod cer∣tain Libelli supplices (which I mentioned to your Honour in my last Letters) he might not now do it, for some reasons which he then concealed. And so he dismist the Synod without do∣ing any thing farther. What these Libelli supplices contain, is unknown. Some imagine it to be from the Remonstrant party; others more probably think, that the subject of them were cer∣tain Gravamina of the Countrey Ministers.

Mr. Deans Sermon was taken well, for any thing I can yet learn to the contrary; but your Lordship shall understand•• there was a little doubt made concerning these Latin Sermons. Mr. Praeses, when the Letters were directed to the Arminian party, requested the Forreigners that they would be pleased to bestow in their Courses some Latin Sermons to entertain the Sy∣nod till the Arminians made their appearance;

And first com∣mended this unto the English. My Lord Bishop refused it be∣cause of the suddain warning: but Mr. Dean would needs un∣dertake it. But certain of the Exteri came to the Bishop, and shewed him how dangerous this might be. For it was as they thought, a very hard matter so to walk, as not to touch up∣on some points that are in controversy, which could not be without the offence of one party.

My Lord Bishop, and the other two, for this reason thought the motion very in∣convenient: but Mr. Dean would by no means apprehend of it, but as of a business very fit to be done. It seems this was the general conceit of the Forreigners, which was the cause that there

was in this kind nothing done till now, notwithstanding that the motion was made a pretty while before my coming to Dort. But how well this example is approved, it will appear, if others of the Forreigners do follow it. Here is a rumour of a certain Je∣suitical book, lately set forth in disgrace of our Synod. I have not yet seen it, but I understand it is in the hands of the Praeses unto whom I had repaired to have looked into it, but that I conceive him to be exceeding full of business. As soon as I can learn what it is, I will acquaint your honour with it. We have much speech of a strange Comet of an unusual length seen this morning. I saw it not; and peradventure it is no Newes unto your Lord∣ship, if it have appeared in the Horizon of the Hague. My Lord Bishop and his Company remember their Love and Ser∣vice to your Honour, and thank you for your Letter of English newes, which they here return. I have sent according to your Lordships Will six Catalogues of the Synod, printed with us in Latin. And so for this time I humbly take my leave.

From Dort this 19/1•• of Novemb. 1618.

Your Honours Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

UPon Friday the 20/•••• of November, the Deputies met in the Morning: where first of all, there were recited the Judge∣ments of some concerning the manner of Catechising which was yet depending, who had not delivered their minds in writing the day before. In this was there nothing extraordinary, save only the advice of the Remonstrants of Vtrecht. For the De∣puties of that Province gave their Judgements severally, the Contra-Remonstrants by themselves, and the Remonstrants by themselves. These first blamed the common Catechism passant amonst them, as being too obscure for the Simple, and too long for the Memory. Secondly, they thought it not necessary that there should be a threefold Catechism, for one well learnt might serve for all the rest. Thirdly, they would have a Ca∣techism

so made, that the Answers might be nothing else but bare Texts of Holy Scriptures. For they thought, that if Scrip∣ture alone were taught, and not any mens glosses, it would be a more immediate means to gain the Anabaptists and other Schis∣maticks to accept of the Catechism. Fourthly, they thought fit that in the Preface to these Catechisms, there should be a note given to this purpose; that these kinds of writing by Catechisms &c. were to be esteemed only as the Apochryphal Scriptures. To the third point some little was answered to this purpose, that this was a mean utterly to extirpate all other Forms of Catechizings out of the Church, there never yet having been any form of Creed or Catechism so conceived. Yet their might be a time hereafter for the Synod to consider of it, when they pleased. After this followed the Form of Catechizing, which the Praeses and Assessors had agreed upon. My purpose was to have taken an extract of it and sent it to your Honour, and I dealt with Festus Hommius about it; but his answer was, that he was to communicate about this with the Praeses, and that it was in the hand of Sebast. Dammannus his fellow Scribe. To Dammannus I was not known, neither did I understand of any acquaintance he had with your Honour, and therefore I let it rest. The summe of it was this. That there should be observed a three∣fold Catechizing. 1. At home by the Parents. 2. In the Schole by the Schole-Master; A third in the Church by Cate∣chetical Sermons: then, that there should be a threefold Cate∣chism, one for Incipientes, containing the Lords Prayer, the Creed, the Commandments, the Doctrine of the Sacraments, and the Church Discipline. A second for the Middle sort, which should be a brief of the Palatine Catechism: A third for Youths, the Pa∣latine Catechism it self. That every one that was admitted Scholemaster should be bound to teach no other Catechism, and that all other Forms should be abolisht: that if either Schole∣masters in the Scholes, or Ministers in the Church, should refuse or neglect to Catechize, they should be subject to censure &c. When this Form was read, the Provinces were in order askt what they would have altered or supplied. Those of Geldria thought it fit that the Minister before his Catechetical Sermon, should not only take the words of the Catechism (as the custom had in most places been) but likewise some Text of Scripture

upon which the Doctrine of the Catechism was grounded. For, as it seems, the custom is in Catechistical Sermons, not to take a Text of Scripture, but a portion of the Catechism for their Text and Theme. It was answered that this custom had been a long time laid down, and could not now conveniently be recal∣led: the same Deputies proposed, whether it were not fit, that whereas in the Decree there is mention made of a censure to pass on those who neglected it, there should be some particular form of Censure set down by the Synod. The thing being put to voices, it was decreed, that it should be left to the Judge∣ment of the Classes how they should be censured. The South Hollanders thought it necessary there should be publick cate∣chizing in the Church by way of Question and Answer. It was answered, that this could not be by reason of the frequency of Sermons. Those of Overyssell proposed somewhat concerning the form of Catechetical Sermons. It was answered that this should hereafter be thought of.

Which answer is a civil way which the Praeses uses, when he means to put by an impertinent question.

Last of all, those of the Walon Churches required that this Decree should not prejudice them, who had already ac∣cepted of Beza's Catechism in their Churches. Now whereas there were three Catechisms proposed, of which there was but one in being, namely the Palatine, they consulted of deputing some, who should make the other two. The matter being put to Scrutiny there were chosen these six, Polyander, Gomarus, Ty∣sius, Lydius, Fauchelius, Vdemannus. Here the Praeses proposed to the Synod, that they would think of fit means for the Edu∣cation and training up of those who should enter the Ministery: but those of North Holland proposed a doubt, wherein the Church of Amsterdam required the determination of the Synod. The matter is this. The Merchants of Amsterdam having Traf∣fick into the East Indies, took into their Families many of the Youths and Infants of that Country, but doubted whether they were to be baptized or no. The question was thus proposed,

Whether the Children of Ethnick parents adopted into the Fami∣lies of Christians were to be baptized, if so be they who did offer them to be baptized did undertake that they should be brought up in the Christian Faith.

But both these questions were put o∣ver to the nex Session, and so the Synod brake up. This after∣noon

the Dutchess of Tremullio came to Town. The English went to entertain her, where my Lord Bishop made a speech un∣to her in Latin, which by her Chaplain was interpreted unto her, who likewise in her name returned answer. But of the particulars of this entertainment, I suppose my Lord Bishop in his Letters relates more fully to your Honour, that I can; for I was not there.

On Saturday the first of December, stylo novo, the Deputies be∣ing met in the morning, the question concerning means of edu∣cation of those who should be fitted for the Ministery was pro∣posed; where, because they found it to be a greater matter than it seemed when at first it was proposed, the Provinces re∣quested further respite, excepting the Zelanders and South-Hol∣landers, who there delivered up their Judgements in scripto. The substance of what the Zelanders delivered was this: that it would please the States General to appoint that a certain num∣ber of Youths might be bred up for the Ministery at the charge of the publick purse. That the wealthier sort would send such of their Children to the Scholes, as they thought fittest to make Scholars. That out of these should be chosen youths of in∣genuous Parentage and Manners, of good wit, of strength and health of body, which should be sent unto the University. That in the University there might be distinct Colledges for every Province, and in these Colledges there might be Re∣gents and Supervisors, which might prescribe unto Youths a Method of study, and not suffer them to wander in variety of Study, and not perfit themselves in some one kind. That there might some time be prefixt for their aboad in the University, as five or six years. And because many upon two years study seek for preferment in the Church, and others on the contrary stay in the University over long; for remedy of both these there might a time be fixt wherein the whole course of study should be absolved. That these Students every year should give an ac∣count of their proficiency to their Parents and Benefactors, and such as bred them up: that after this they should go and visit forreign Churches and Universities to see and observe. That at their coming home they bring with them the Testimonies of the Pastors and Governours of the Churches and Universities wherein they have been, and exhibit them to the Classes where

they are to live; and expect their calling to the Ministery. That they should publickly in the Church read the Scriptures before the people, for this would make them known to the Church, embolden them to speak to the multitude, and mend their voices and delivery. That by consent of the Classes they be permitted to be with the Pastors, to confer with them in Cases of Conscience, to go with them when they visit the sick, that thus they may learn how to deal in these cases, and how to conceive prayers upon occasion. That to fit them for the Church Regiment, which is a thing not learnt in Scholes, some months before their institution, they converse in the greater Cities, to be present in the Presbyteries and the meetings of the Deacons, to understand how Voices may be asked and gathered, how Church Disciple is to be exercised, and what in divers cases is to be done. That they be examined how fit they be to reform mens manners. That it were fit that even in Universi∣ties Youths were trained up in Practick Divinity and Cases of Con∣science. The substance of what the South-Hollanders delivered was this. First that Youths should stay at least two years in the University, and publickly read the Scriptures in the Church. Secondly, that after this they publickly dispute of some dif∣ficult question in Religion. Thirdly, that they be examined of all the Articles in Religion, and if they give satisfaction, then they may be admitted ad propositiones, (what these are I know not) and after a years exercise in them, they may be examined by the Classes, who if they find them fit may give them leave to exercise themselves in Catechizing and Preaching. That to learn Church Government they be admitted to Consistories and Classes to see what there is done, so that what there they see they keep in silence. That they leave not the studies of Divinity to meddle with other things. That they may have leave to Bap∣tize, if the necessity of Rural Churches require. Yet they must expect a year ere they be admitted, which is not to be done without sufficient Testimony that all hath been done which is re∣quired. The rest of the Provinces required respite till Monday: and so they past to the question which was proposed in the name of the Churches of Amsterdam, concerning the Baptizing of the Children of Ethnick Parents. The English first exhibited their minds in Writing to this effect. That Infants, if they were

justly taken, as, if they were given, or bought, or the like, (for it might not be lawful fraudulently or violently to take them from their Parents) ought to be baptized. For so it is recorded of Abraham, that he circumcised every one in his house, even those whom he had bought with his Mony: but if they were Adulti, they might not be Baptized till they made Profession of the Christian Faith. With these agreed the Bremenses and the Professors. On the contrary the Helvetians and South-Hollanders concluded, that the Infants of Ethnick Parents ought not to be Baptized, till they came to be of years to declare their Faith. Their chief reason was, because Baptism was a Sign of the Co∣venant: but the Infants of Ethnick Parents are not born within the Covenant, and therefore they cannot be partakers of this Sign.

Here was a little indirect dealing betwixt the Helvetians & the Bremenses. The Helvetians Scribe had by some meanes or other suffered a Copy of the reasons for their opinion to be brought aforehand to those of Breme, who openly in the Sy∣nod house, in scripto refuted them: which thing is feared will cause some choler.

And this is all that this day was done con∣cerning this question, and so both the questions yet depend. The Synod did the sooner end, because they were at eleven a clock to go to the Funeral of Henricus ab Hell, who died lately, as I think I told your Honour. The Solemnity was no more but this. Some of the chief of the Town together with the whole Synod went to the House where he died, accompanied him to the Church, laid him in his Grave, and went home again, almost in as little space as I have told it you. The Dutchess of Tremullio was at this Session, and as I hear, spake very well of the Synod, commending it both for Piety and good Or∣der.

The Remonstrants are now every day expected. We under∣stand that they are already met together at Leyden.

Mr. Praeses came this day to my Lord Bishop, and under Benedicite told him, that it was thought the Remonstrants would become Suiters to the Secular Deputies, for some greater respect in the Synod, than it is likely otherwise they should have: and that for this they would use the English as mediators. Then, that they would call in question the right of his presidentship, as being made only by the Provincials without any respect

had unto the Forreigners. To this my Lord Bishop replyed, that for the first, since they were Members of the Synod, they would not do any thing clancularly without the consent and Privity of the whole Company. To the second he answered, that hitherto they had acknowledged him for their Praeses, & so they would continue to do notwithstanding any objection might be fancyed, so that of them he might secure himself.

And this is all hath hapned since Friday Morning, at what time I addrest my last Letters unto your Honour: and for this time commending your Lordship to Gods good Protection, I humbly take my leave.

Dort, Decemb. 2. 1618. Stylo novo.

Your Honours Chaplain, and Bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, and my very good Lord,

MY Letters containing the acts of our Synod upon Friday and Saturday, I dispatched this morning unto your Honour by a Soldier whom I knew not, & he delivered them to a Skipper whom he knew not, and whether or no they came to your Lord∣ships hands I am uncertain. There are come with them Letters from my Lord Bishop to your Honour. Upon Monday the 3d. of Decem. the Deputies being met, they prosecuted the two questions before left undecided; First of the Baptizing of children born of Ethnick parents: secondly, of means considerable how to breed up those who are to enter the Ministery. In the first, concerning the adulti the Synod agreed, that if they made profession of the Christian Faith they might be baptized, etiam invitis parentibus. Their reason was, because that after children came to be of years, in case of Religion they depended not from the power of their pa∣rents, but might make their own market. All the difficulty was of infants, and children not yet of discretion to make their choice. The English, the Professors, those of Hassia, those of Breme, of Zeland, of Freesland thought it necessary they should be Baptized if they were rightfully adopted into Christian Families, and that their parents had altogether resigned them in∣to the hands of the Christians. They grounded themselves upon

the examples of Abraham circumcising all that were of his Fami∣ly; of Paul Baptizing whole housholds; of the primitive Church recorded in Saint Austin, who shews that anciently children that were exposititii were wont to be taken up by the Christians and baptized. Now such were the children of Ethnick parents; for it was never esteemed lawful for Christians to expose their children. All the rest were peremptory that they were not to be baptized, till they came to be of years of Discretion, to make profession of the Faith. The North-Hollanders themselves, whose business it was, and who moved the Synod in it, were expresly against it; whether they were bought, given, taken in War, or howsoever. Their reasons were, because they are immundi; because they are extra foedus, of which Baptism is a sign; because Adoption could entitle them only to terrene, not to an Hea∣venly inheritance, &c. So that if plurality of voices carry it, the negative part prevails. The Praeses required some time to compare the opinions together, & so for that time forbare to pro∣nounce sentence. And because the examples of Abraham and Paul were much stood upon by those who held the affirmative, he proposed these two things to be considered of. First, whe∣ther it were likely that in Abrahams Family, when he put cir∣cumcision in act, there were any Infants, whose Parents died uncir∣cumcised. Secondly, whether it were likely that in the Families baptized by Paul, there were any Infants, whose Parents died unbaptized: and so he past away to the second Question, con∣cerning the manner of training up those who were to enter the Ministery. In my last Letters to your Honour I related at large the advice given in this point by the Zelanders and South-Hollan∣ders. It was now proposed to the Synod, whether they did ap∣prove their Counsel, or except against it. Some thought it was unlawful for men not in Orders to preach publickly, or baptize; (for the South-Hollanders in their advice, had determined they should) others thought it unmeet, that they should be present in the Consistories and meetings of Deacons, or that they should read the Scriptures publickly in the Church (which was the joynt advice of the Zelanders and South-Hollanders.) Last∣ly, it was doubted whether the Synod could make any Decree in this Question; because of the several customs in several Provinces, which it lay not in the power of the Synod to

prejudice. So that instead of deciding this one doubt the Prae∣ses proposed five more to be considered of. 1. Whether men not in Orders might make publick Sermons. 2. Whether they might baptize. 3. Whether it were fit they should come into the Consistories. 4. Whether they should read the Scrip∣tures publickly. 5. Whether the Synod could make a Decree in this business, for the reason above mentioned, or only give advice. The Synod had begun to speak to the two first, and it was the general opinion that they might not baptize. In the point of preaching they differed. Some thought absolutely it might be permitted them: others on the contrary thought no: some tooke a middle course thinking they might preach private∣ly before a select Auditory, who were to be their Judges how sufficient they were for that end: some that they may do it open∣ly, so that it were understood they did it not cum potestate solvendi & ligandi. But when part of the Synod had spoken their minds, because the time was much passed, they brake up, and put off the determination to the next Session.

Here is a rumor that some of the Remonstrants are come to Town, who they are I cannot yet learn. I shall to morrow make inquiry, and by the next Messenger acquaint your Lord∣ship with it. In the mean time I humbly take my leave.

Dort this 3. of Decemb. 1618. Stylo novo.

Your Honours Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

UPon Tuesday the fourth of December, Stylo Novo, the Depu∣ties being met in the morning they proceeded to deter∣mine of those doubts, which were moved the Session be∣fore. In the matter consulted concerning the training up of those who were to take upon them the Ministery, there were five questions moved. 1. Whether it were fit they should preach pub∣lickly. 2. Whether they should baptize. 3. Whether they should come to the Consistories and meetings of the Classes. 4. Whether they should read the Scriptures publickly in the Church before the People. Lastly, whether they should make a

Decree to bind all Provinces necessarily, or only to advise them. To the first two the Exteri had given their answer in the former Session. For the question of Baptism, no man stood upon it, but all accounted it unlawful, for men not in Or∣ders to take upon them to baptize: the doubt was concerning Sermons. Io. Polyander thought it very fit that such as intend∣ed the Ministery, before they were admitted should practise Preaching. First because it was the practise of some of the Bel∣gick Churches. Secondly, because it took from them that 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, that subrustick shamefastness of many men, by which they fear∣ed to speake unto the people. Thirdly, because it was conve∣nient that they should be known for men fit for that duty, be∣fore they should enter upon it. Fourthly, that they might ap∣prove themselves to their Parents and Benefactors, who had been at the charge of their Education. Provided that it were with these conditions: first, that it were done with con∣sent of the Classes: Secondly, that it were practised only when the Church was unsupplied, either by the death, or absence, or sickness of their Pastor, or in case of like necessity. With Polyander did Wallaeus of Middleburgh agree, and ground∣ed himself upon the practise of the Jews, amongst whom not on∣ly the Levites, but others also publickly taught the Law, as it appears by the story in the Acts, where Paul and Barnabas com∣ing into the Synagogue, the Rulers called unto them, that if they had any word of exhortation, they should speak unto the people. Contrary unto both these was D. Gomarus, who held it utterly unlawful for any to preach before they were admited to the Mi∣nistery. First, because they had no Mission; and who can preach except he be sent. Secondly, because they had not the Keyes of the Kingdom of Heaven. Thirdly, it was granted that they could not baptize: now Christ hath put Baptism and Preaching toge∣ther, Go teach all Nations baptizing them: & quae Deus conjunxit homo ne separet. Last of all, though there had been a custom in some places to the contrary, yet fitter it was that custom should conform it self to Truth, than Truth to custom. With Gomarus agreed Thysius, and thought his argument drawn from Mission to be unanswerable; and for my own part I thought so to. D. Go∣marus is a man of great note; but I never heard him speak with any strength of reason in the Synod till now. What Sibran∣dus

his opinion was concerning the point I know not; for he doth so favour his voice, that I can never tell what he saith: and I imagine I have no great loss of it. After the Professors was there little said, which was not said before, only Lydius of South-Holland thought certainly to confute Gomarus, and told us, that such men might preach, and that they had Vocation so to do. For first that inward Vocation which they had from the Spirit, and then their Examination and Admission by the Classes was warrant for them sufficient to preach, though they had no particular charge. For this good News did Mr. Dean of Worcester publickly applaud D. Lydius in the Synod. I marvail'd much with my self to see Mr. Dean and Lydius so wide of the mark. For there was no question of those who were admitted by the Classes, but only of such who fitted themselves to be admitted. The Examination and Admission by the Classes is the very form of their Ministery, and not their being placed over a particular Church. And thus much at length did the Praeses tell us. When all had spoken, Mr. Praeses pronounced that it was concluded by the Synod, that it should not be lawful for them to baptize: but for the mat∣ter of Sermons, it was thought good by the Synod, that it should be left to the Judgement and Discretion of the particular Classes. In the third question concerning the Admission of the Proponentes, (as they call them) to the Consistories, little was said, and so in the fourth, concerning the publick reading of Scripture in the Church; Some thought fit that the ancient custom of Anagnostae in the Church should be revived: others thought it some disparagement to publick Reading, that it was committed to Tradesmen, and many times to men unskilful, that knew not well to read: In both these the Synod deter∣mined nothing, but left them free to the discretion of the Classes, and the latter was to be left to the Liberty of the Proponentes, whether they would read or no; and that they were not to be inforced to it, if they would not. In the last question whether they should make any necessary Decree binding all, or only by way of Counsel, my Lord Bishop being asked what he thought fit, made answer, that they were to distinguish betwixt things necessary, and not necessary. Things absolutely necessary should be absolutely decreed: other things should be left arbi∣trary. Which sentence passed by the major part of Voices, and

was Synodically concluded. Here the Deputies for the Remon∣strants of Vtrecht exhibited to the Synod in writing a Bill, con∣taining some exceptions against what hitherto had passed in the matter of the Catechism. First they misliked that any such form should be forced upon them. Secondly, that all Schole-masters should be so strictly bound to that form, as that it should not be lawful to recede from it. For this did prejudice all other forms now currant, and might discontent the Luthe∣rans and others, who had admitted of another form. Thirdly, they charged the Praeses with some indirect dealing. For where∣as he had, whilst the business was in fieri, solemnly protested, that there was no intent concerning the matter, but only con∣cerning the form of Catechizing, yet in the issue they had con∣firmed the Palatine Catechism, which contained as well matter as form. Fourthly, they misliked the Decree concerning the not premising of a Text of Scripture before catechetical Sermons. Lastly, they required that this their dissent might be registred. To this the Praeses replyed, that the Synod had only exprest it self what it thought fittest to be done. As for the necessity of Execution, that was not in the power of the Synod, but of the States General, who when all was done, might either pass or recall what they thought good. Secondly to the point concerning himself, he answered, he had done so, and thought it fittest so to do (but the Synod thought otherwise) and since there was a matter of Catechism to be concluded, they thought they might confirm this as well as any other: and this was not so confirm'd, but that it was in the power of the Synod to alter what they please. To the point of premising a Text of Scripture before the Catechetical Sermon, he answered that the determination of the Synod was not to take that custom a∣way there where it was in use, but only to prohibit the urging of it there where it had a long time been disused. To the last, concerning the Registring of this their dissent, he answered, he saw not how this could be granted them; since the States General had concluded, that what passed by a major part of voices, should alone be accounted the Act of the Synod: and by the same proportion every one that passes not his voice with the major part might require his dissent to be registred. After this the Praeses signified that concerning the question of the

baptizing of Ethnick children put up by the Church of Amster∣dam, he required yet farther respite, because of the opinion of some of the Synod, which was somewhat ambiguous and ob∣scure. He was therefore to confer with the Authors of it, and therefore desired that the resolution might be put off till the next Session: and withall he commended to the Synod the con∣sideration how the liberty of Printing so promiscuously all kind of scandalous and libellous Pamphlets might be represt, and so he dismist the Synod.

The Remonstrants are in Town, but because they keep themselves private, and have not presented themselves unto the States and Deputies, there is no notice taken of it. And so commending your Honour to Gods good Protection I humbly take my leave.

Dort this 4. of Decemb. 1618. stylo novo.

Your Honours Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

UPon Wednesday the 5. of December, stylo novo, the Deputies being met in the morning, the first thing which was done, was the admission of a Senior or Elder for those of Gro∣ninga, whose number as it seems was not yet full. The thing was transacted in Dutch, and yet the consent of the English was askt: at which I did not a little muse. Next followed the ad∣vice of the Helvetians, what course was to be taken with those, who are to enter the Ministery; in which there was no great matter from what before was intimated. The Pala••ini promised the like, and therefore the Praeses required yet farther respite be∣fore they did conceive any form of Decree in this behalf.

Then followed the Decree of the Synod concerning the questi∣on moved by those of Amsterdam, about the Baptism of children born of Ethnick, Parents. The Decision consisted of two parts. The first concerned the Adulti, and it was this; That such as were of years and capacity should be diligently taught and catechized, and then, if they did

desire it, they should be baptized. The second concerned In∣fants, and it was, That till they came to years of Discretion, they should by no means be baptized. A strange decision, and such as, if my memory or reading fails me not, no Church either Ancient or Modern ever gave. When it was objected, what if they were in danger of death? their answer was, that the want of Baptism would not prejudice them with God, except we would determine as the Papists do, that Baptism is necessary to salvation. Which is as much to undervalue the necessity of Baptism as the Church of Rome doth over∣value it.

Here followed a recitation of all that had been done since the business of the Catechism had been set on foot: amongst the rest was registred the exceptions of the Remon∣strants of Vtrecht, and it was added, atque iis est à Praeside satis∣factum. Those of Vtrecht excepted against that word satis∣factum: they had, said they, an answer given them, but no satisfaction. For they persisted in their former opinion: and forthwith that word was altered. Here was a doubt moved, whether it were not fit that some of the especial Reasons brought by the Synod in the Question of the Baptism of Infants should not be added to the Decree. It was answered, That Reasons were obnoxious to cavil and exceptions, and it was not for the Authority of the Synod to Reason, but to Decree. After this the Praeses signified to the Synod that the time prefixt for the ap∣pearance of the Remonstrants was now expiring, and yet no∣thing was signified concerning their appearance neither to the Se∣cular President, nor Ecclesiastical. Wherefore naming them all, he thought good to cite them to appear. It was answer'd by those of Vtrecht, that they did provide and would shortly be forth coming. In the mean while to take up the time, Mr. Praeses thought good to commend to the Synod the consideration & re∣dress of those abuses which were in Printing. Every man was suffered to print what he listed, whence came abundance of blasphemous, heretical, obscene and scandalous Pamphlets. Ma∣ny here delivered their opinions, others required farther time to think of it. The English first thought fit that the States General should be requested to take the care of this into their hands. That there should be Censors to approve all such Books as should go to the Press. That no man should print,

but such as were known to be of the Reformed Religion. Unto this advice divers things were added by others; as that there should be a set number of Printers: that they should be sworn: that there should be certain Laws prescribed unto them: that they should print no Heretical Books, especially the Books of David Georgius, H. Nicolaus Socinus: that no Li∣bels, no unlawful Pictures, either obscene, or made to any mans disgrace, should be permitted: that no Book should be Prin∣ted without the names of the Author, Printer, Place, except the Synod or the Magistrates did in some cases otherwise think good: that there should be care that the Correctors for the Press were good Scholars: and many other things of the like nature. Then were there read certain Canons made in some Synods before, concerning this business. Theodatus of Geneva told us, that in his travails, at Venice he had observed that there was a Colledge of sundry persons, secular and spiritual, to whose care was committed all the business of Printing. He thought it fit there should be such Colledges here erected. When all had spoken that would, the Praeses told them that Adri∣an Smoutius had written a little Book in the Belgick Tongue un∣to the Synod, and sent the Copies of it to him to be di∣stributed. And so requesting them to take in good part the good will of the man, for want of more business the Synod brake up.

At length are we coming to the main battel. The Armies have been in sight one of another, and have had some parly. The manner was this. Upon Thursday the 6. of Decem. stylo novo, The Synod being set in the morning, the Praeses signified, that there had come unto him in the name of the Remonstrants, these four, H. Leo, Niellius, Matthisius, and Pinakerus, to give notice that the Remonstrants were ready according to their Citation; but because they had but lately come unto the Town, that yet convenient lodgings were not provided, their papers, books and stuff were confused, therefore they required respite either till Saturday, or at least Friday morning. The President of the Politicks replyed, that they should come, and personal∣ly make appearance before the Synod, and there propose their mind, and if the Synod approved their causes, they might be deferred. Upon this were two of the Deputies

of Vtrecht sent forth, to give them warning to provide for their present appearance. In the mean while, till they came, the Praeses thought fit, that such as in the former Session deliver∣ed not themselves concerning the Reformation of abuses in Printing, should now doe it. Here was little delivered, be∣sides what was said the day before, only some few particu∣lars, as that order should be taken to repress this longing hu∣mour in many men of coming to the Press: that there should be no impression of the Bible at any time without leave had: Forreign Books brought out of other Countries should not be distracted here without peculiar leave, after their being pe∣rused by the Censurers: to ease the Censurers that they might not be troubled with reading too great a multitude of unprofitable Books, it was thought fit that the Books should first be brought to the Classes, and what they approved should be brought to the Censurers, &c. In the men while the Remonstrants came, all that were cited by Letters, and were admitted into the Sy∣nod.

There is in the midst of the Synod-House a long Table, set, as it seems, for them; for it hath hitherto been void, no man sitting at it: here Chairs and Forms being set, they were willed to sit down.

The Praeses told them, that he had com∣mended to the Synod their suit of being a little respited: but it was the will of the Deputies for the States, that they should come before the Synod, and propose their cause themselves. Episcopius standing up, spake to this effect.

First he prayed God to give a blessing to this meeting and to pour into their minds such conceits, as best fitted men come together for such ends: then he signified, that according to their Citati∣on they were now come ad collationem instituendam, concerning that cause, which hitherto with a good Conscience they had maintain'd. As for the point of delay, true it is they spake to the Praeses concerning a respite until Saturday or Friday, by reason of that great distraction of their Books and Papers, and want of convenient lodging, but not as a petition to be moved in that behalf unto the Synod; but only as a thing which out of common equity they might have presumed on without acquainting the Synod with it. For they were ready, even at that present to begin the business they came for, without any farther delay. But this they left to

the Deputies Secular and Ecclesiastical to determine of.

Then were they requested to withdraw a little into a chamber near the Synod House; and immediatly was it proposed unto the Synod, what time was to be set for to begin. The time prefixt was the morrow after. Io. Polyander took hold of those words, ad Collati∣onem, and told the Synod, that it was fit the Remonstrants were told the end of their coming, and the manner of pro∣ceeding which should be taken with them, that they might know what they were to look for, and so provide. They were to be informed, that they came not to conference, neither did the Synod profess themselves an adverse party against them. Conferences had been heretofore held to no purpose. They ought to have heeded the words of the Letters by which they were cited. They were called, not to conference, but to pro∣pose their Opinions with their Reasons, and leave it to the Sy∣nod to judge of them. The Synod would be a judge and not a party. Then were they call'd in again, and all this was told them. Episcopius answered, that for the word Collatio he stood not on it, and how they would carry themselves it should appear the day following. Mean while one thing they would request of the Synod: that is, that Grevinchovius and Goulartius should be sent for to the Synod as Patrons of this cause. That they had this last week exhibited a Supplication to the States General to this purpose, and received this answer, that they should put this matter to the Synod, and if the Sy∣nod thought it fit to be granted, they would not be against it. Neither did they propose this to seek delayes. For they were ready, whilst these men should be sent for to proceed to the action. Only they thought fit, that to maintain their cause they should be sent for, who could best do it. Then were they again dismist: and one was sent to them, to call for their Sup∣plication to the Lords, and the Lords Answer. To this they returned, that the Lords gave this answer, not in writ∣ing, but by word of mouth: and for the copy of their Suppli∣cation, they called not for it any more. Then was the thing proposed unto the Synod, and the Secular Deputies replyed, that they would return their answer on the morrow: & the same was the answer of the Synod. Mr Praeses thought that Grevin∣chovius might be admitted salvis censuris Ecclesiasticis: yet not∣withstanding

he thought good to acquaint the Synod with the quality of this man, & thereupon he produced the Act of the Pro∣vincial Synod, of South-Holland, wherein it was witnessed, that the Synod, because he did refuse to appear when they cited him, and because of many Blasphemies in his Book, and of many reproach∣ful speeches against the Magistrates and against the Ministers, had suspended him ab omni munere Ecclesiastico. From this Gre∣vinchovius had not appealed to the National Synod to do what they thought fit. Then were the Remonstrants again called in, and it was signified unto them, that on the morrow they should understand the will of the Synod concerning their motion made, and so were they again dismist; and the Session ended, the Praeses having first premised, that all other things yet depending, as the Decree concerning the Proponentes, together with the Re∣medies concerning the abuses in Printing, and what else so∣ever, must be deferred, and the business in hand alone at∣tended.

My Lord Bishop was desirous that Mr. Carleton should stay this day, to see the coming of the Remonstrants. I would have had him stay to morrow likewise, that he might have seen the manner of proceeding with them; but he would not. Here is speech that Scultetus is to make the next Latin Ser∣mon; but when we know not. There is a rumour that Vorstius is gone from Tergone, but of this I suppose your Honour may have better information than I can give; therefore ceasing to trouble your Honour any longer I humbly take my leave.

Dort this 6. of Novemb. 1618. Stylo novo.

Your Lordships Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

IN my last Letters to your Honour, I related a doubt concer∣ing the Deputies for the Remonstrants of Vtrecht; whether they were to be a part of the Synod, or in the number of the Remonstrants, who were cited to appear before the Synod.

The reasons of that doubt, which then I understood not, were these. First, because in their Credential Letters they were charged to defend the cause of the Remonstrants. Now it could not be that they should be both Defendants and Judges in the same cause. Secondly, it was objected that their case was the same per omnia with Episcopius, who was to have been of the Synod, if he would have brought his Credential Letters, as the rest of the professors were. But he refused it, because in the Remonstrants cause he was to be a party, except he would have laid by the defence of that cause. Thirdly, when the question was of citing the Remonstrants out of each Province, it was then concluded in the Synod, that out of the Province of Vtrecht none should be cited to appear, because of that Pro∣vince there were some already, and therefore it was superfluous to oite any more. In the judgement of the Synod therefore they were in numero citatorum, as far as concerned that cause, and not in the number of the Members of the Synod. Unto these Reasons were they charged to give their answer upon Sa∣turday, and then to resolve whether they would forsake the words of their Credential Letters, and so remain Judges, or else stand unto them, and become in the number of the citati. Wherefore upon Saturday, the 8. of December, stylo novo, The Synod being met in the morning, the Deputies for Remonstrants gave up their Answer in scripto to these Reasons. And to the first concerning the Clause in their Credential Let∣ters, they answered, that they were not so limited, but that in their private instructions they had leave to do otherwise, if they thought good. To the second, concerning the Parity of their case with Episcopius they answered, that their case was quite another; for they were sent from their Provinces as Mem∣bers of the Synod, which plea Episcopius could not make. To the third, concerning the intent of the Synod at the Citation they answer'd, that they never so understood the words of the Sy∣nod, neither did they know but that they might shew themselves for the cause of the Remonstrants, and yet sit as Judges, since they were there to defend their opinion no otherwise than the Contra-Remonstrants were to defend theirs: and therefore they were purposed to take theoath, and to keep their places. The Praeses then required them to shew that clause in their pri∣vate

instructions, wherein that reservation was which they pre∣tended. They stuck a little at first to bring forth their instructions-but at length seeing there was no other remedy they consent¦ted to do it, provided that no more should be read than what they would suffer: which was granted them. In the mean time whilst they were providing to produce their instructions, there were read in the Synod the letters of the provincial Synod of South Holland, directed to the National, to this purpose: that whereas Theophilus Ryckwaerdius, one of those who was cited a∣mong the Remonstrants, had lately been by them convented for certain misdemeanours, the Synod would be pleased to give him leave to return and make his answer to such objections as they had to charge him with. The thing was put to the de∣termination of the Synod. The Deputies of the States thought fit it should be left to his own discretion to doe as he thought good. Others thought it not fit he should be sent from the greater Synod to a lesser. Others thought it was necessary he should imme∣diatly be sent away to make his answer, since it was question of behaviour and manners only, and not of doctrine. In the end it was concluded it should be left to his own discretion, to do as he thought good. By this time were the Remonstrants of Vtrecht ready to shew their instructions, which they there openly pro∣duced, but to no purpose at all. For all they could shew was this, that they had commission to defend their cause, or to la∣bour at least for an accommodation or toleration of it: but that they had power to pronounce decisively de veritate aut falsitate sententiae, that did not as yet appear. The thing was acted with much altercation on both sides. At length it was agreed, with some reluctancy on the Remonstrants party, that it should be put to the determination of the Synod; whether they were to be accounted as Judges, or only as citati. Some favourably thought that their private instructions were not too narrowly to be sifted, but if they would suo periculo take the oath, it should be sufficient. Others thought that an Oath was a greater matter than should so easily be permitted, although men did offer to take it, there being so good cause of doubt, as now there was. Others examining there Credential letters, and the words of their private Commission, and finding no authority given them to define de falsitate sententiae if it should appear to

be false; and that the lowest point they could descend unto, was a Toleration, concluded they could be no other than citati. As for their plea, that they came to defend their opinion no otherwise than the Contra-Remonstrants did for theirs, it was replyed, first that they did the Synod wrong to make this distinction of Contra-Remonstrants and Remonstrants: for in the Synod there was no Contra-Remonstrant, and no man was called thither under the name, whereas they in their letters came under the name of Remonstrants. Again, No man came with charge to defend any opinion, but were free to pronounce according to truth wheresoever it should be, which was not their case. In the end the judgement of the Synod was given up, that they could not be of the members of the Synod in this cause (for in any other they might) but only as citati. Yet notwithstanding that they might see the equity of the Synod toward them, it was permitted them to keep their places upon these conditions: first if they would quit their defence of the cause; Secondly if they would give no advice or counsel directly or indirectly to the citati, and by no means meddle with them in their cause: Thirdly, that they did not divulge any of the Acts and Secrets of the Sy∣nod, (which Clause was a meer Formality. For who can expect that that should not be divulged, which is done in the sight of so many Spectators?) Fourthly, that they should not be trouble∣some to the Synod, by any intempestive interpellations. This if, they would promise, they should take the Oath, and sit as Judges; otherwise, not. Unto this were they charged immedi∣ately to give their answer. They again required respite. It was answered, that this request was needless, the case being so plain, and injurious to the Synod in detaining them from their business by frivolous delays. They persisting still in their Suit, the thing again was devolved unto the Synod, whether they should give their Answer presently, or have farther respite. It was concluded that they should repair to Mr. Praeses the same day at five a clock in the Evening, there without farther delay, roundly to deliver their resolution. Which thing yet they did not. They came indeed at the time appointed, but gave no Resolution, nei∣ther yet have done, for any thing I can hear. And this was all was done that Session. I marvail much that the Province of V∣trecht, being the strength of the Remonstrants, could find no

wiser men to handle their Cause. For as they did very foolishly in bewraying their private instructions, so in this whole alterca∣tion did they not speak one wise word. This Session the Remon∣strants that were cited appeared not all.

Episcopius is reported to have put a trick upon the Seculars. For whereas in his speech he had said some things concerning them, in that Copy which was exhibited, sign'd with all their hands, there is no such thing appears. He had committed it only to his Memory, as forseeing the Copy might be called for.

Mr. Praeses remembers his love and service to your Lordship, and hath sent you a Copy of the Book which Adrian Smoutius de∣dicated to the Synod. The greatest Newes, for ought I per∣ceive, is, that it is dedicated to the Synod; for else there is little that concerns them. I have troubled your Lordship with very long repetition of a petit matter: but it was all the Argument of the Session. I trow, to morrow we shall have other manner of stuff. And so ceasing to trouble your Lordship, I humbly take my leave.

Dort this 9. of Decemb. 1618. Style novo.

Your Honours Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

ON Munday the 10. of December, stylo novo, the Deputies met in the morning, where the first thing determined, was the question as yet depending concerning the Remonstrants of Vtrecht. They had according to their appointment come to the Praeses and Assessors to give their Answer, which was meerly di∣latory, containing their answers to such reasons as the Synod on the Saturday Session had brought to prove them in the number of the Citati. But having better bethought themselves, upon the Munday a little before the Morning Session, they delivered their Resolution to the Praeses, to this effect, That since nothing else would content the Synod, they had resolv'd to leave their place of Judges, and to adjoyn themselves to the other Remon∣strants

which were cited: and so they did. After this fell in some speech concerning a supplication lately exhibited by the Remon∣strants unto the Exteri: and because it seemed to contein some aspersions against the Synod, there was question made whether or not it should be publickly read, and stand: but this motion died, and there was nothing done in it. A Copy of this Supplication; I think, my Lord Bissiop lately sent your Honour. Then Mr. Prae∣ses signified unto the Synod, that without farther delay he thought it fit. The Remonstrants should put in mind of the end of their coming, and that they should put up their minds in writing, concerning the five points in question, and that forth∣with. For he doubted it not, but they came very well provid∣ed to do it: and more, that some years past, they had provided certain considerations to be at hand, whensoever they should be called for, with which the World was not yet acquainted. This thing he remembred Monsieur Barnevolt sometime told him in private conference, and the Remonstrants themselves have told the world as much in their pressior declaratio, which they joyned to their addition of the conference at the Hague. Then were the Remonstrants call'd in, and told, First of their indirect dealing, in pretending themselves to have but one Copy of their Oration, whereas it was known they had another, and in delivering up a broken Copy: then of the end of their being convented by the Synod. But by the way one thing was urged somewhat unne∣cessarily. The Remonstrants had given up, (as I told your Ho∣nour) their seech signed with all their hands. When those of Vtrecht had joyn'd themselves unto them, they were urged to put to their hands also: to which they replyed, they had not as yet read it. Here Episcopius took occasion to clear himself of that imputation lately fastened upon him, that he had abused the Delegates, in giving them a counterfeit Copy of his speech: protesting he was not so ill qualitied, as that in so great a mat∣ter, and that before God and so grave a Congregation he would deal doubly, and dishonestly: that he never affirmed that he had one only Copy, but that he had none fairly written; for he confest he had another, and that the reason why he re∣quested either the same Copy again, or at least a Transcript of it, was, because there was some difference betwixt the two Copies, and they had not yet perfectly compared them together. The

Praeses answer'd, that what was laid to their Charge, was nothing else but that which the Synod verily understood to have been done, and he thinks, that if the Memories of those in the Synod were consulted with, they would all confirm it. About this was there likely to have been some altercation farther, but the Secular Praeses willed them to leave that and pass to their business. Here Episcopius besought the Synod that he might have leave to speak some things by way of Proeme ere they came to the Acti∣on. It was at first denied him, but he did so earnestly intreat, that at length he had leave to speak his mind: and so forthwith there was recited è Scripto a long and tedious speech of two hours, at the least: consisting of two general heads; First of Ex∣ceptions they had against the Synod Tanquam in judicem incom∣petentem: Secondly of a conceit of their own, what manner of Synod they thought fit it should be, which was to compose these controversies in hand. Their reasons of Exceptions were many, and manifoldly amplified and confirmed: but amongst them all there were two especially insisted upon. First, it was against all e∣quity and nature that the adverse party should be judge: the Sy∣nod was here the adverse party, and therefore they could not be Judges. Secondly, those who had made an open Schism and Faction in the Church, & had separated themselves from their bre∣thren, could not be their Judges: but of this Synod a great part were Authors of Schism, and the rest Favourers and Abetters of it: they could not therefore be their judges. In the Prosecution of which Reason they did not spare very liberally to bestow on the Synod the name of Schismatici & Novatores, and schismatum Fau∣tores, and other goodly titles of the same nature. The second part of their Oration was a meer Chimaera saltans in vacuo; a strang phancy of such a Synod as never was, nor can be. I had thought to have taken an abstract of it, but the tediousness of it deterred me. I will give your Honour a taste or two of it. There were but two wayes of instituting a Synod for the ending of these quarrells. The first was, by seeking out every where certain select men, who all this time of contention had taken part with neither side; but kept themselves unpartial. Secondly, if a Synod of such could not be found (as I think it could scarcely be found in the Netherlands, though the Sun it self should seek it) then such a Synod should be framed, as in which should be an e∣qual

number of both parties, each with their several Praeses and Assessors; and they should debate the mater betwixt themselves: and if they could not agree, (as it is likely they would not) what then, thought I? shall they part as they came? No forsooth. The Civil Magistrate, tanquam Deus è machina, he must come in, and prescribe the Moderamen from which neither party must ap∣peal. Provided alwayes, that he laboured only for Accommodati∣on, and not to determine decisively for one part, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉. And so I awoke. Of the same threed was the whole piece of their speech. When they had well and throughly wearied their Au∣ditory, they did that which we much desired; they made an end. The Praeses made a brief Answer to this effect. For the point of Schism saith he, it is not yet fit time to discuss. But when it should in the Synod be made plain what had been the received Doctrine of the Church, then it would appear who they were that had made secession from it, and so were guilty of Schism. If you refuse us because we are your adversaries, whom would you have deputed as Judges? your selves, or the Papists, or the Anabaptists, or the Libertines, or some other faction in these Countries? Let us be Scismaticks, let us be Scribes and Pharisees, and worse; yet you may not deny this Synod to be a lawful Synod. For first it was done by the Civil Magistrate, who had Authority to doe it. Secondly, such as were there were deputed by the consent of the Provinces. Thirdly, they had all taken their Oaths to judge uprightly. This is enough to make us your Judges, and common Charity should make you to hope we would judge upright: at least it should make you re∣solve thus far, if we should decide truly, you would subscribe unto it, if otherwise you would patiently bear it. If you were in our places, so Deputed, so sworn, and we were to be judged by you, we were to doe the like. Here followed some wrangling to no great purpose, and so the Session ended.

The same day after dinner the Deputies met again; where first the Praeses commended to the Synod the consideration of that reproachful Name of Schism, which the Remonstrants did so open∣ly & so often brand them with. For it was Episcopius his palmarium argumentum, the Synod was all either Schismaticks or favourers of them, and therefore could not be their Judges. It was much that they should grow to that boldness, as that openly they should

call the Synod, the Seculars, the chief Magistrates, yea the Prince of Orange himself, Schismaticks. For what had formerly been done in the matter of Secession and division of Churches was done by their consent and approbation. He requir'd therefore the Synod to deliver themselves what was to be done. Divers spake diversly. Lydius of South Holland relating the story of what had been done in the time of separation, cleared them of Schism; and shewed first, that the name of Schism was used craftily by them; as for a reproach, so likewise for a farther end they had for themselves. For a Schism is only a breach of Charity and peace of the Church, the Doctrine remaining intire. If there were a separation by reason of Doctrine Heretical (as here he thought there was) it was not to be called a Schism. Now the Remonstrants did therefore use the name of Schism, that they might perswade the world, that the difference was only in cer∣tain points indifferent, in which it mattered not which end went forward, by this means to make their way open to a tole∣ration. Again, the separation which was made, was made up∣on good reason. For they were forced unto it by the Remon∣strants violence, as in particular he did shew. At length he and the rest of the Synod concluded, that they should roundly be put in mind of their duty, and to speak more respectively to the Synod. Upon this the Remonstrants being called in, the Praeses signifyed what the Synod disliked in them, and what be∣haviour it expected at their hands: and withall willed them to attend the Decree of the States. Episcopius would have answer∣ed, but he was prohibited. Then immediately followed a de∣cree of the States to this purpose; that whereas the Remon∣strants had hitherto made many dilatory answers, to the injury both of the Ecclesiasticks and Seculars, it was decreed by them, that they should lay by all frivolous Exceptions, and dilato∣ry answers, and forthwith proceed to set down their mind con∣cerning the Five Articles, for which end they were come together. Then began Episcopius to purge himself, and declare, that in the imputation of Schism they included not the Seculars, they only charged the Ecclesiasticks: and if the Seculars had a hand in it, they meddled not with that. The Praeses urged them to give their answer, whether or no they would set down their minds concerning the points in controversy: they still excepted, that

the Synod were not their competent Judges. The Praeses asked by whom they would be judged? they replyed, they would not answer this, it was sufficient that the Synod could not be their Judges. They were will'd to remember they were Citati: they replied, Citatorum est excipere de competentia judicis. The Praeses of the Seculars willed them to remember that they were Subjects; they replyed, the Magistrate could not command their Consci∣ences: being again willed to give their answer, whether or no they would exhibit their minds concerning the five Articles, they required first to have their exceptions answered; when no other answer would be given, they dismist them, and appointed that of the Synod two should be chosen Delegates, who should immediatly go to them, and in the name of the Synod warn them to lay by all other answers, and at the next Session Catego∣rically answer, whether they would exhibit their minds con∣cerning the points in Controversy, or no: that so the Synod might know what they had to do: and so they brake up: this morning therefore we look what will be done. And so for this time I humbly take my leave, commending your Honour to Gods good Protection.

Dort, 1/••1. Decemb. 1618.

Your Honours Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Of the Remonstrants of Vtrecht, two only have joyn'd them∣selves to the Citati: the third which is an Elder, professes to submit himself to the judgement of the Synod, if they shall de∣cide according to his Conscience; and that if it please the Sy∣nod to give him his Oath, he is ready to judge neither as Re∣monstrant nor Contra-Remonstrant, but accordingly as it shall please God to open him the truth in the Synod.

Right Honourable, and my very good Lord,

ON Thursday the 4/14. of Decemb. the Synod being sate, and re∣petition made, according to the custom, of what had past in the former Session, the Remonstrants being called in were askt,

whether or no they had set down in writing their opinion con∣cerning the first Article. Forthwith they exhibited to the Synod their opinion subscribed with all their hands. The Copy of this your Lordship shall receive here with these letters. The paper be∣ing read, the Praeses askt them all one by one whether this were their opinion, to which each man answered affirmatively. The Re∣monstrants being dismist the Praeses proposed to the Synod, whether it were not fit that they should be sent for one by one and examin∣ed singly as concerning their tenent. His reason was, because he un∣derstood that they made themselves an Antisynod, and had a∣mong themselves ordained a Praeses, two Assessours, and two Scribes according to the form of the Synod, and so they did all things communi consensu like a little Synod: to this some answer∣ed that they thought it fit: some that those only should be singled out who were carried away with respect to their compa∣ny, and if they were alone would think and do otherwise: o∣thers thought it utterly unfit because it might seem olere artifici∣um aliquod, to savour of a trick, whereas it best became the Synod to doe all things candide & syncere: others would have no man examined alone but when all the rest were by: others left it to the judgment of the Praeses to doe as he thought good when occasion served: which last sentence as it seemed stood good. After this was there a general exception against the man∣ner in which they had proposed their sentence: that they had done it confuse, distracte, & obscure: that they had intermingled things impertinent and belonging to other questions: that the most of their proposals were negatives, what they did not hold, & not affirmatives what they did; whereas their appearance there was to shew what they did hold, not what they did not hold. And it was discovered that this their proceeding by negatives was, that they might take occasions to refute other opinions, and not to confirm their own; whereas by the decree of the States they were called thither ut sententium SVAM dilucidè, perspicuè &c. exponerent & defenderent, not that they should oppugne o∣thers. That it had been their custom very liberally to examine other mens opinions and to be sparing in confirming their own. That if they did refuse to deal more plainly in expounding their mind, the Synod should take order that the state of the questi∣on should be taken out of their Books, especially out of the

Hague conference, and so they should be questioned whether they would stand to it or no: that they did maintain amongst them an implicite faith, and it was usual with some of them, when they were prest with any reason they could not put by, to an∣swer that though themselves could say little to it, yet such and such could say much, which was enough for them. When all had spoken their pleasure, the conclusion of the Synod was, that they must reform the manner of propounding their mind: that they must give up their answer in affirmatives, as much as was possible: that this form of answer was not according to the Decree of the States; and this was the effect of that Ses∣sion.

On Friday, the 5/15 of Decemb. there was a short Session in the morning. The matter propounded was, whether it were not fit that the Remonstrants should be required to give up their minds concerning all the five points, before the Synod proceeded to examine or determine any thing. The reason was, the con∣nexion of the points mutually one with another, for which cause it was hard to determine of one, except their mind in the rest were known. The Secular Lords and the Synod liked well of the proposal. Those of Geneva thought it best to take their opi∣nions out of their books: to which the Praeses answer'd, that it could not be, because they were called thither by their citatory Letters to propose & defend their own opinions. That they could not complain of the Synod for calling on them thus at once to deliver themselves. For the Synod doubts not that they were provided, since themselves had long since given it out in their books and private speeches that they were provided. The Re∣monstrants then being called in, were told that it was the de∣termination of the Synod that they should deliver their opinions at once concerning the five points; and for this they had given them time till Munday. For this would prove better for the Synod and for themselves. Then that they should deliver themselves in affirmatives as much as possibly might be. For by their ne∣gatives they delivered not their own opinions, but diverted upon other. Th•• Confessions and Creeds had alwayes been framed by affirmatives; thus or thus we do believe; not by negatives. To this they replyed, Attendemus ad ea quae à Domino Praeside dict a sunt & considerabimus. Then did the Praeses signifie that

on the morrow there should be a Latin Sermon in the Synod house. Scultetus is the man that makes it. And this is the ef∣fect of what was done at that time, and so ceasing to trouble your Lordship any farther at this time, I humbly take my leave, rest∣ing

Dort this 15. of Decemb. 1618. stylo novo.

Your Honours Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

THe seventh of Decem. stylo novo, being Friday, in the morn∣ing the Synod met; the first thing that was done, was the pronouncing the Decree of the States concerning Grevinchovius and Goulartius to this effect, That whereas the Remonstrants had petitioned to the States, that Grevinchovius and Goulartius might be admitted into the Synod, there to defend the Remon∣strants Cause, the Lords for good causes thought they neither ought, nor could grant it; yet thus much did they graciously permit, that they might freely come in private, and do them what help they could; and if they thought, that in any thing they saw further into the Cause than their brethren, they might have leave to exhibit their mind in writing to the Synod. Pro∣vided, First, that they had leave of the Synod so to do. Se∣condly, that they did not seek any frivolous delayes: Thirdly, that they promised to submit themselves to the Decree of the Synod: and last of all, that the Church Censures respectively pass'd on Grevinchovius and Goulartius be not prejudiced; but stand still in their full force and vertue. This Decree was con∣sented unto by the whole Synod. Here the Praeses admonisht those of Vtrecht to provide themselves, and resolve what they would do; whether they would profess themselves parties for the Remonstrants, or keep their places, and sit as Judges; if they would express as parties, then must they cease to be ac∣counted part of the Synod, and be accounted as Episcopius and the rest that were cited. They required that time might be given them to deliberate. The Praeses eagerly urged them to give

their resolute answer. They replyed it was a greater matter than might so soon be dispatch'd. So far they went, that at length they fell on some warm words. For when two of the Re∣monstrants Deputies by chance ••pake both at once, the Praeses admonisht them to speak modestiùs & ornatiús. For men here speak one by one, and not by pairs. But here the Secular De∣puties strook in, and thought fit they should have time of re∣spite till the morrow: yet so that in the mean time the Synod should proceed: Then were the Remonstrants call'd in, and the Decree of the States concerning Grevinchovius and Goulartius read unto them: Episcopius standing up required that a little time might be granted to them to speak, and forthwith uttered an Oration, acrem sanè & animosam, and about which, by reason of some particulars in it, there will grow some stir. The effect of the Oration was this.

THat Religion was the chiefest note of a man; and we were more distinguished by it from other Creatures, than by our Reason. That their appearance be∣fore the Synod was, ut illam etiam Spartam ornarent, that they might endeavour something for the preservati∣on of the Purity of Religion: That Religion was nothing else but a right Conceit and Worship of God: That the Conceits concerning God are of two sorts; some absolute∣ly necessary, which were the grounds of all true Worship, in these to erre might finally endanger a man; Some not ab∣solutely necessary; and in these sometimes without great danger men might mistake; That they descryed many con∣ceits passing in our Churches which could not stand with the Goodness and Iustice of God, with the use of the Sacraments, with the Duties of Christian men; These had given occasion to the Adversaries abroad to accuse our Churches, and lay upon them many strange imputations,

That therefore their endeavour had been none other but to remove these imputations, and to provide as much as in them lay, that the Conceits of some few might not pass for the general Doctrine of our Churches; But this their endea∣vour had hitherunto had but ill success; And as in a dis∣eased body many times when Physick is administred, the humours which before were quiet are now stirred, and hence the body proves more distempered: so their endea∣vours to cure the Church had caused greater disorder, yet in this had they not offended. For they laboured to none other end, but that the Church might not be traduced by reason of the private conceits of some of her Ministers. That in this behalf the world had been exceedingly in∣censed against them: but this Envy they esteeemed their Gloriam & Palmarium; That for this they did not mean to forsake their Cause, and were it so that they should lose the day, yet would they joy in it, and think it glory enough magnis ausis excidisse. That this their stirring was not de lana caprina, of small, frivolous, and worthless mat∣ters, of mere quirks of Wit, as many of the common sort were perswaded; that out of this conceit it was that they had been so exceedingly roughly dealt withall, yea they might say saevitum fuisse against them, as against unneces∣sary Innovators in the Church: First matters were hand∣led against them clanculary, and by stealth, after this they brake out into open but false accusations, and after this into wrath, into scoffing and bitterness, till at length effractis moderationis repagulis, every one came with open mouth against them, tanquam in publici odii victimas [Here followed a grave & serious invocation of Christ as a witness to the truth of what they said]. True in∣deed

it was, that in their Books many things were to be found amiss. For a very hard matter they thought it for minds exasperated semper rectum clavem tenere. That for the setling of these things, there could but three cour∣ses be thought of; either •• National Synod, or a mutual Toleration of each others Opinions, or the Cession and Re∣signation of their Calling and place in the Church. To quit them of their calling and to fly, this were a note of the Hireling: as for a Synod, which they much desired, remorabantur qui minime debebant, and it was pretend∣ed that the condition of the Times would not suffer it. There remains only a mutual Toleration, of the possibility of which alone they had hope. And for this end they did ex∣ceedingly approve of the Decree of the States of Holland, and West-fryzeland, which they thought confirmed by the examples of Beza's dealing with some, of their own dealing with the Lutherans, of the Advice of the King of Great Brittain: But all this was labour lost; for there was a buzze and jealousie spread in the heads of men, that under this larve, this whifling Suit of To∣leration there lay personated more dangerous designes: that behind this, tanquam post siparium, there lay intents of opening a way to the Profession of all the antient Here∣sies: and that the Remonstrants could pro tempore, Con∣scientiae suae imperare quod volunt, upon this began mens minds to be alienated from them: which thing at length brake forth into Schism and open separation. Now be∣gan their Books to be more narrowly inquired into, every line, every phrase, every word and tittle to be stretcht to the uttermost, to prove them Hereticks. Witness that late work, intituled Specimen Controversiarum Belgica∣rum,

whose Authors credit and good dealing had already in part appeared, and hereafter farther would appear. That all Fundamental points of Divinity they had preserved untouched. For they knew that there were many things of which it is not lawful to dispute, and they abhorr'd from that conceit of many men, who would believe nothing but what they were able to give a Reason of. That what they questioned was only such a matter, which for a long time had been, without danger, both pro and contra disputed of. They thought it sufficient if the chief points of Reli∣gion remains unshaken. That there had been alwayes sundry Opinions even amongst the Fathers themselves, which yet had not broken out into separation of minds, and breach of Charity. That it was impossible for all wits to jump in one point. It was the Iudgment of Paraeus a great Divine, that the greatest cause of Contentions in the Church was this, that the Scholemens Conclusions, and Cathedral Decisions had been received as Oracles, and Ar∣ticles of Faith. That they were therefore unjustly charged with the bringing in of a Sceptick Theologie: They sought for nothing else but for that liberty which is the mean be∣twixt servitude and License. That now they appeared before they Synod, whether as cited, or otherwise, they were not careful. They had been present howsoever had it been lawful. They required the Forreigners not to judge of them as they had heard abroad, but as they now should find them. That they profess they oppose themselves, first against those Conclusions concerning Predestination, which the Authors themselves have call'd Horrida De∣creta. Secondly, against those who for the Five Articles so called have made a Separation, never expecting any

Synodical Sentence: Thirdly, against those who cast from them all those who in some things dissent from them. And yet to raise the controversy greater, is the question of the right of Magistrates added above all the rest, which they main∣tain'd against those, who taught the Magistrate should with a hoodwinkt obedience accept of what the Divines taught, without farther inquiry. These are the points, for which we have contended. Give unto us that respect which your selves would look for at our hands, if you were in our case; we have not ambitiously sued to any: the Favour of God alone it is which we have sought; Look not upon this small number which you see, Unus Patronus bonae causae sa∣tis est. 'Tis not the smaller number that makes the Schism. If a major part carry the right, what think you then of the Province of Utrecht, where the greater parts are Remon∣strants? From you doth the Schism proceed, First here in this Synod, by making so an unequal a choice of Deputies with so small a number of Remonstrants. Secondly by pro∣ceeding against us abroad, not expecting a Synodal Decree, by cashiering and subjecting unto Censures the chief Pa∣trons of our Cause, eos apud quos sunt aquilae nostrae: and peradventure, even at this very hour you proceed a∣gainst some of ours by suspending, discommuning, by expel∣ling them from their Churches, &c. But yet we cast not a∣way our Swords; The Scriptures and solid Reason shall be to us instead of multitudes. The Conscience rests not it self upon the number of Suffrages, but upon the strength of Reason. Tam parati sumus vinci, quàm vincere. He gets a great Victory, that being conquer'd gains the Truth. A••••∣cus Socrates, amicus Plato, amica Synodus, sed magis an••∣ca Veritas.

THese are the Fragments of Episcopius his speech, as far as my Memory and broken notes could supply me; I suppose what Errors I have committed by leaving out, misplacing, misrelating, Mr. Ames, when he comes to your Honour will rectify: this and much more for an hours space, he delivered with great grace of speech and Oratorial gesture: The Praeses signified unto him, that be∣cause there were in his speech many things considerable, he was therefore to deliver the Copy of it: Episcopius replyed, that he had none handsomely written; if the Synod would have patience, he would cause a fair Transcript to be drawn for them; But this excuse would not serve. Fair or foul deliver it up he must, and so he did: The Deputies for the Politicks signified, that since there were many things in it, which did as well con∣cern the Seculars, as Ecclesiasticks, they were to give it up sub∣scribed with all their hands: which forthwith was done. Then did the Praeses tell them how much they were beholding to the Synod, that had so patiently heard them, notwithstanding that they had no leave granted them to speak, and that they ought to have expected the Mandate of the Synod. To this Episcopi∣us replyes, that he had required leave before he began to speak; True, said the Praeses, but you staied not till leave was granted you; besides, saith he, you are to know that no man may, no not of those that are the members of the Synod, offer to de∣claim without leave first had, and without manifesting the Ar∣gument and drift of his speech. After this followed a Form of Oath prescribed by the States, which all the Members of the Sy∣nod were to take, the Articles of it were these two,

That on∣ly the Word of God should be taken for their rule to end their questions, and that they had no other purpose but the peace of the Church.

First the Praeses took his Oath in this order, standing up in his place, he said, Ego promitto coram Deo, (thus, and thus) ita propitius mihi sit Servator Christus. Then the Provin∣cials took every one in his order, standing in his place, and pronouncing these words, Idem promitto coram Deo & sancto Ser∣vatore, only the Remonstrants Deputies of Vtrecht took not the Oath, because as yet they had not determined, whether they would make themselves parties or Judges; After the Provincials did the Forreigners in order do the like, and so the Session ended.

And with it I think it is time for me to end, and commend your Lordship to Gods good Protection.

Dort this 7. of Decemb. 1618. Stylo novo.

Your Honours Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

UPon Saturday 5/•••• of this present, the Synod being sate in the Morning, Scultetus made unto them a pious, and patheti∣cal Sermon. In the beginning he signified, first how it joyed him to speak unto them Post eruditissimum virum Iosephum Hal∣lum, Decanum Wigorniae meritissimum. Secondly that he saw that day, that which his Majesty of Great Brittain, and the Prince Elector his Master had so long desired to see, namely a Synod gathered for the setling of the Churches peace in these Coun∣tries. He took for his Theme the 122. Psalm, I rejoyced when they said unto me, Let us go up unto the house of the Lord, and so forth unto the end of the Psalm. Where first having shewed the oc∣casion of this Psalm, that it was the Removal and bringing of the Ark unto Ierusalem, he considered in the whole Psalm three things. First, that it was Summum hominis gaudium, to see the Peace and flourishing of the Church; which he shewed by many Reasons, and confirmed by the examples of the Duke of Wit∣temberg, who at the Council held at Worms a hundred and twen∣ty years since, when others discoursed of many Priviledges and conveniences of their Lordships and Territories, openly protest∣ed it to be his greatest felicity, that he could in aperto campo, & in sinu Subditorum suorum dormire: and of Theodosius the Emperour, who at his death did more comfort himself that he had been a Son of the Church, than the Emperour of the World. Secondly, that it was Summum hominis Votum to pray for the peace and ••lourishing of the Church: which he confirmed by the examples of the Apostles and of Christ himself. Thirdly, that it was Summum hominis studium to procure the peace of the Church. Where speaking of the present occasion, I am no Pro∣phet

(saith he) yet I think I foresee, that the peace of the Bel∣gick Churches would be a means to settle the peace of other Churches. He therefore wisht that the States, the Prince, the Delegates, would all propose unto themselves as their end, the peace and flourishing of the Churches amongst them, as he doubted not they did in calling this Synod. There was not in this Sermon any Doctrinal point discust, nor any par∣ticular toucht, which might minister Newes. It was only a Pathetical exhortation to all sorts, as much as in them lay to procure the Churches peace. When he had done, the Praeses publickly in the name of the Synod gave him thanks, and pro∣tested himself to have been very much moved with his speeches. Besides this there was nothing done that Session.

Upon Munday •• of this present, the Synod coming together in the Forenoon, there were two out of Wetteraw from the Counties of Nassau, Bisterfeldius a Preacher, and Io. Henricus Al∣stedius, Professor of Divinity in Herborne came as Deputies from the Churches in those parts, to be admitted as parts of the Sy∣nod. The Letters from the States General, and then their Cre∣dential Letters from their Churches first being read, the Oath was read unto them, and they took it. Then did the Praeses in the Name of the Synod welcome them, and told them the end of their coming, and what these Churches expected at their hands. Then were the Remonstrants call'd in, and willed to declare their opinion concerning the rest of the Articles: which they did at large, and added some Apologies for their proceeding by Negatives (which I told your Lordship formerly had been the Exception of the Synod against the manner held by them in the first Article.) I will not give a brief of what they then deliver∣ed, because I resolve to send your Lordship the perfect Copy of it, as soon as I can come to copie it out. When they had done the Praeses asked them, whether they were provided to deliver up their considerations concerning the Confession and Cate∣chism, for the Synod expected it. They answered that they ex∣pected not the Synod should call for them. The Praeses replyed, this could not excuse them, for they had often told the World in their Books, that they had paratam sylvam considerationum in that kind: and that the Synod should better judge of each part, when it had learned their opinion of the whole. They

required leave to withdraw a little, and think of an an∣swer. In the mean time the Praeses proposed to the Synod, to consider how well the Remonstrants had stood to the Decree of the Synod, concerning the proposal of the Tenents in affirma∣tives, he thought that they had offended more against it, and that purposely in bringing their Apologie for so doing: in cen∣suring the opinions of other Churches for blasphemous, &c. Howsoever it was their judgement that they should propose their sentence in Negatives, yet they ought not to have proposed, but to have submitted their judgement to the judgement of the Synod. The Remonstrants returning, gave answer to this effect: that though they might require time to give up their Considerati∣ons, yet they thought they were not bound to give them up, till the five Articles were discust; since their Citatory Letters so ran, that first the Articles, then their Considerations should come in place: that they thought it some wrong done them to have this order now perverted. The Praeses answered, that no wrong was done them; for their Considerations should not yet be sifted, till the five Ar∣ticles were concluded. And so the order in their Citatory Let∣ters should be kept. That long since in a Synod at Delpht they had promised to deliver them up in a Provincial Synod there, and therefore now after so many years they could not be unprovided. Here the Praeses Politicus charged them to obey their Decree, and to do as the Praeses and the Synod requir'd. The Praeses Ecclesiasticus then admonisht them, that they were not to accompt of themselves as a Colledge, and so still to give an∣swers in commune, but they must answer particularly every one for himself: and thereupon he asked every of them in order, whether they had any such Consideration or no: some answered they had, some that they had some few of no great moment, some that their Considerations were not written down, some that they had none at all. When the Praeses had said, jactatum suisse by them long since, that they had sundry Considerations ready •• Corvinus excepted against the word jactatum; the Praeses reply∣ed, He used not the word to disgrace them, but only as a Fre∣quentative, to signifie that they had often boasted of it. When some Litigation was here fallen, Martinus Gregorii (one that sits close upon the Remonstrants skirts) cut it off, and commanded them to be quiet. The Remonstrants here signified, that such

Considerations as they had were only in the Dutch tongue. The Praeses replyed, they should have leasure to translate them. Then did the Seculars pronounce a Decree charging them to provide themselves singly one by one, he that had many to give up many, he that had few to give up few, he that had none to give up none, and that whether it were in Dutch or Latin. The Remonstrants required some time; for, saith Episcopius, we came imparatissimi ad hanc rem. First there were given them to two dayes, then three, then four: within which space every man a∣lone by himself, was to give up his Considerations: and this was the effect of the Session.

The answer of the English Divines to the Remonstrants excep∣tion against the Synod, I will send your Lordship in my next Letters, together with the Remonstrants answer upon the later Articles. Harman the Post came to Dort on Sunday about three of the clock, and went for England on Munday about ten of the clock, in the morning. Mr. Dean of Worcester is very crazy and sickly of late, and keeps his Chamber, neither hath he been in the Synod some of these last Sessions. I hear he purposes to come to the Hague, to see if he shall have his health better there. Here is a Rumour that the Remonstrants are a little divided amongst themselves; and that Corvinus complains that what he hath done, was because he suffered himself to be drawn on by others, how true this is I know not; I heard Scultetus tell my Lord Bishop so much, and that Meierus of Basil, should say that Carvinus had signi∣fied so much to him. My Lord Bishop is a little displeased with Mr. Amyes for putting into his hand Grevinchovius his Book, in the Preface of which there are cited out of a Writing of Mr. Amyes certain words very reproachful unto Bishops. Other Newes here is none, and therefore for this time ceasing any further to trouble your Honour; I humbly take my leave, resting

Your Honours Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

ON Thursday 10/••0 of this present, in the morning the Synod being met, the first thing done was the Admission of the Scottish Deputy in this manner. He was brought to the Synod House by the two Scribes, and met at the door by two of the Deputies for the States, and by them conducted to his Seat, which is a little seat made under the English Seats, where he sits alone; when he was sate, the Praeses welcom'd him in the Name of the Sy∣nod. Then were the Leters from the States read, which were to stand instead of Synodical Letters; for otherwise the custom is here, that he that comes to be a Member of the Synod brings Letters of Credence from the Church that deputes him. After this he delivered himself in a short speech to this effect.

That the reason of his coming he had delivered unto the States at the Hague, namely the Kings pleasure: that he therefore once minded to have said nothing, but he could not obtain so much of himself, especially when he heard what gentle Welcome the Praeses gave him, and he was desirous to shew himself thank∣ful for such great Courtesie; That the Scotch Nation had ever∣more so linkt it self to this people, that it hath alwayes la∣boured to endeavour the peace of this State, and now it was ready to do as much for the peace of the Churches amongst them. That they had very straightly bound unto them the Scottish Church (demeruistis Ecclesiam Scoticanam) by this so kindly welcoming him. That his years were not many, but he hoped ere he departed to make amends for that; That the King at his coming away did charge him, verbis sublimibus, above all sphere of Conceit and apprehension to exhort them unto peace, and with a short passage to that purpose he ended.

The Praeses thanking him for his good Counsel gave him his Oath. And so they past away to other business.

To morrow I trow we shall have more matter, for then the Remonstrants are to give in their Exceptions, against the Cate∣chism and Confession, and so at length we shall come to the Que∣stion. For this time therefore I humbly take my leave of your Honour, resting

Your Honours Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty and Service, Jo. hales.

Right Honourable, and my very good Lord,

UPon Thursday the, 17/27 of this present, the Deputies being met in the morning, the Remonstrants were called in, and willed to give up their Considerations upon the Catechism, according to to the injunction laid on them on Fryday last. Episcopius, Cor∣vinus, Duinghonius, Poppius, Pinakerus and Sapma gave up all to∣gether in common, and excused themselves, for not giving up one by one, as was enjoyned them, because their Considerations being altogether the same, they thought they might exhibit them all together; Niellius, Goswinus, Matthisius, and Isaacus Frederici, gave up singly, every one by himself, the rest gave up none at all. What these Considerations were I know not; for they were not publisht. Then did the Praeses require them coram Deo to answer directly and truly, First whether or no these were the Observations which they gave up to the States of Holland; to which was answered, that as far as they could remember they were, and some others besides. Secondly, whether they had a∣ny more Considerations besides these; to which they all answered, No. Here Scultetus stood up, and in the name of the Palatine Churches, required a Copy of these considerations upon the Catechism. We have, saith he, a command from our Prince to see that nothing be done in prejudice of our Churches. The Ca∣techism is ours known by the name of the Palatine Catechism, and from us you receiv'd it. The Observations therefore upon it concern us, we require therefore a draught of them, with pur∣pose to answer them, and submit our answer to the judgement of the Synod. This request of the Palatines was thought very rea∣sonable. These Considerations (I speak of those on the Confes∣sion; for those others I saw not) are nothing else but Queries upon some passages of the Confession, of little or no moment: so•• that it seems a wonder unto many, how these men, which for so many years past, in so many of their Books, have threatned the Churches with such wonderful discoveries of falshood and error in their Confession and Catechism, should at last produce such poor impertinent stuff. There is not, I perswade my self, any writing in the world, against which wits disposed to wrangle cannot take abundance of such exceptions. After this did the

Praeses put the Remonstrants in mind of the judgement of the Synod past upon the manner of propounding their Theses on the Articles. Two things there were misliked. First their pro∣pounding so many Negatives. Secondly, their urging so much to handle the point of Reprobation, and that in the first place; whereas the Synod required they should deliver themselves, as much as was possible in Affirmatives, and begin first from Election, and from thence come to the point of Reprobation in its due place. He required them therefore to signifie whether they would follow the Judgement of the Synod, or their own. They answered, that they had given up their reasons to justifie their Proceeding, and otherwise to proceed their Consciences would not permit them. For, saith Episcopius, the point of Reprobati∣on is that quod maximè nos aegrè habet: that he could not endure that Doctrine concerning the absolute Decree of God; that God should peremptorily decree to cast the greatest part of mankind away, only because he would. Corvinus answered that he could not salvâ Conscientiâ versari in. Ministerio, till that point were cleared. Isaacus Frederici, that praecipuum momentum was in that question: others, that in the question of Election they had no scruple; all their doubt was in the point of Reprobation: and therefore their Conscience would not suffer them to proceed farther in disputati∣on, till that matter were discust. To this answer was made, that the Synod did not refuse to handle the matter of Reprobation, but thought it not fit to have it done in the first place. But when this would not content them, the Praeses proposed unto them, whether they were resolved so to proceed, or else to relinquish all farther disputation. They replyed, they resolved to break off all farther Treaty if that matter might not be handled. It was told them that it should be treated of in its due place, but the questi∣on was only de modo procedendi, whether they should handle that first or no. Episcopius and some others of them gave answer, that for the order they did not precisely stand upon, modo de tota re agatur: but this answer they stood not unto. For when the Praeses told them again, that it was the pleasure of the Synod, first to handle of Election, and then of Reprobation as much as should seem necessary, and for the Churches good, and withal charged them to answer roundly and Categorically whether they would proceed according to this order: they answered, No.

Then did the Praeses require them to withdraw, and give the Synod leave to advise of this: The sum of that which past in the mean time was this: That their pretence of Conscience was vain, since it was not of any thing which concern'd Faith and good manners, but only of order and method in disputing, which could not at all concern the Conscience; that the Disputation must begin from Election. First because the order of Nature so requir'd, to deal of the Affirmative before the Negative; and a∣gain, because that all Divines, who ever handled this Question did hold the same order; & the Holy Ghost in Scripture had taken the same course. That they should be assured in the name of the Synod, that they should have liberty to discuss the question of Predestination throughout. That whatsoever they pretended, yet the true end of their so hotly urging the question of Re∣probation, was only to exagitate the Contra-Remonstrants Doctrine, and to make way for their own Doctrine in point of Election: Lydius observed, that it had been the cu∣stome of all those who favoured Pelagianism, to trouble the Church with the question of Reprobation.

D. Gomarus that saw that his Iron was in the fire, (for I perswade my self that the Remonstrants spleen is chiefly against him) began to tell us, that Episcopius had falsified the Tenent of Re∣probation: that no man taught that God absolutely decreed to cast man away without sin: but as he did decree the end, so he did decree the means: that is, as he predestinated man to death, so he predestinated him to sin, the only way to death •• and so he mended the question, as Tinkers mend Kettles, and made it worse than it was before.

In summe, the Synod caused a Decree to be penn'd to this purpose. That it should be lawful for the Remonstrants to propose their Doubts, both in the Question of Election, and Reprobation: but for the order in disputation, which of the two should come first, they should leave that to the Synod, who thought it fitter to give, than to riceive Laws; and that whereas they pretended Conscience, it was but vain, since there was nothing in Scripture against this Command of the Synod; nay that it was more agreeable with Conscience to obey than to withstand. Then were the Remonstrants called in, and after a short admonition bet∣ter to advise themselves, the Decree of the Synod was read un∣to them. And when they began to urge their Conscience, the

Praeses Politicus spake to this purpose: that there had heretofore been many Decrees made by the Delegates, but they had been all neglected, he therefore strictly warn'd them, that no man should dare to withstand any Decrees either of the Magistrate, or of the Synod, either by open opposing against it, of by sullen silence, under pain of penalty according to the will of the Lords. When Episcopius had said aegerrimè ferimus, and would have said somewhat more, he was enjoyn'd silence, and so the Session ended, Mr. Praeses telling us, that the next Session we should come to the question, si per Remonstrantes liceret.

Now concerning Monsieur Moulins Proposals, of which your Lordship required to know what I thought, I will deliver my self in my next Letter to your Honour. In the mean time com∣mending your Honour to Gods good protection I humbly take my leave.

Dort, this 17/27. of Decemb. 1618.

Your Honours Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

UPon Friday 18/•••• of December, in the morning it was long ere the Synod met. At length being come together, there were read the two Decrees; one of the States, another of the Synod, made the former Session: the reason of the repeating was the ab∣sence of some the day before. Then did the Praeses signify, that that very morning, immediately before the time of the Synod, he had received from the Remonstrants Letters satis prolixas, which concern'd himself and the whole Synod; the perusal of which Letters was the cause of his long stay. The Letters were sent to the Delegates to know whether or no they would have them read. Whilst the Seculars were advising of this point, there were brought in a great heap of the Remonstrants Books, and laid upon the Table before the Praeses: for what end it will appear by and by. The Secular Delegates signifie, that they think not fit that the Letters should be publickly read, and that the Remon∣strants should immediately be call'd in. They being entered, the Praeses askt them whether they were ready to obey the Orders

set down by the States & the Synod: They require to have their Letters read: but the Seculars willed them, instead of reading their Letters, to hearken to a Decree of the States, and forth∣with was read a Decree sounding to this purpose: that the States strictly commanded, that nothing should be read or spoken in the Synod in prejudice of the Decree made yesterday; but that they should without any further delay come to the bu∣siness in hand. The Remonstrants reply, that except they may most freely propose their minds in both the parts of Predestination, both Election and Reprobation, they refused to go further in Conference, for that their Conscience would not permit them. The Praeses replyed, that for liberty of proposal of their opini∣ons they could not complain; for the Synod had given them Libertatem Christianam, aequam, justam: but such an absolute Li∣berty•• as they seemed to require, of going as far as they list, of op∣pugning before the Synod what opinions they pleased of learned men, this they thought unfit. And as for Conscience, they knew that the Word of God was the rule of it. Now what part of Scripture had they that favoured them in this behalf, or that did take any order and prescribe a Method in Disputation. By thus stiffely urging their Conscience they did exceedingly wrong the Decree of the States and Synod, as if by them something against the word of God, some impiety were commanded. When the Praeses had thus said, he began to propose unto them certain Interrogatories concerning the Five Articles. Your honour may be pleased to call to mind, that in one of my former Letters I shewed, that because the Remonstrants had given up their opi∣nions very perplexedly and imperfectly, the Synod had thought good that the Praeses should propose them certain questious out of their own Writings; so the better to wrest their meaning from them. This was the Praeses now beginning to do; and this was the cause of the bringing in of the Books. The Interro∣gatory proposed was this, Whether or no they did acknow∣ledge that the Articles exhibited in the Hague Conference did con∣tein their opinions? Episcopius stept up, and required that it might be lawful for them to set down their own Tenents, and not be forced to answer thus to other mens Writings. H. Leo in choler told the Praeses, that he did evidently see, that it was the drift of the Synod, to discredit them with the Magistrate,

and that for his own part he would rather leave his Ministery, than make any answer to these Interrogatories. The Praeses here advised him to bethink himself seriously, whether his Con∣science could assure him that this was a good cause of leaving his Ministery; because he might not proceed in Disputation ac∣cording as he thought fit. Wezekius answered, that he would not submit to this examen, and nisi posset liberrimè agi, he would not answer at all. The same was the sence of Hollingerus his answer. Episcopius plainly told them nisi in omnibus liberum esset to do as they thought good, they would go no farther. For we are resolved, saith he, agere pro judicio nostro, non pro judicio Sy∣nodi: then one of the Seculars stept up, and willed those words should be noted. The Praeses then told them, that the true cause of all this their indisposition was, that they forgot themselves to be Citati, and that they were not acquainted with being commanded. They were to remember, that they stood before God, before their Magistrate, and that their cause was the cause of the Church, whose peace would not be procured by this behaviour. They might remember what they told the Forreign Divines in their Letters to them, that there was of late a great Metamorphosis in the State. Non estis nunc judices & Domini rerum, sed Citati: but at it seemed, they were resolved to suffer, omnino nullum judicium de iis fieri. Episcopius here urged his Conscience. Adde Verbum Dei then saith the Praeses, shew us upon what Text of Scripture you ground your Conscience, otherwise you wrong both the Magistrate and the Synod. Corvinus answered, that that scantling of Liberty, which the Synod gave them, did not suffice their Consciences. Poppius likewise required larger Li∣berty, and that he might not be dealt withall by Authority, but by Reason, The Praeses answered, that in Conscience he could not give them greater Liberty, than they had already given them, and therefore askt him if he would answer to the Interro∣gatories. He stoutly replyed, Malo quidvis pati. Sapma replyed to the same purpose, and over and above added, Vt nostrum ju∣dicium non satisfacit Synodo, ita nec Synodi Iudicium nostro. Rickwardius told the Synod, that they dealt not charitably with them, and openly protested, as Episcopius had before done, non agemus pro judicio Synodi, sed pro judicio nostro. The Praeses replyed, vocem hanc esse intolerandam. Niellius excepted a∣gainst

this proceeding with them capitatim, and requir'd that they might consult in common what answer to give. For my self saith he, I am a man of no ready speech, and unfit for suddain disputation. Too great advantage is taken against men, by this kind of proceeding. Many members of the Synod, were they thus singled out to give a suddain answer, might easily perad∣venture be put to some distress. Nullam esse causam tam justam, de qua non facile possit triumphari, si de ea agatur tantum pro arbi∣trio adversarii. The Praeses told them that here was nothing re∣quired, but that they would give a reason of their Faith, which they had for this many years taught in their Pulpits, and in their Writings, and therefore they could not be unprovided to give an answer; and for that they mentioned the Synod as an Adversary, they had been already taught sufficiently by the Forreign Divines that the Synod could not be counted pars ad∣versa: they answered, that they required a Copy of the reasons given by the Forreign Divines, that they might consider of them; but they were denyed it. Here was by one of them, I know not whom a reply made, that the Remonstrants in re∣fusing to proceed except they might freely handle the point of Reprobation, did no other than the Contra-Remonstrants had formerly done in the Hague Conference, who there openly refused to proceed, if they were urged to have the same point hand∣led; notwithstanding the command of the Magistrate. Festus Hommius replyed, that the narration was falsified; for the Con∣tra-Remonstrants did not simply refuse to deal in the point of Reprobation; neither did the Magistrate command them to do it; as now he had commanded them. And thus much did some of the Secular Deputies stand up and give witness unto. Epi∣scopius here urged some words out of the Conference, to prove what was said; but what these words were I could not take. The Praeses went forward to propose the Interrogatories: Gos∣winus and Neranus answer'd as their fellows had formerly done. Isaacus Frederici urged for himself, that when he was removed from being a Member of the Synod, he was commanded coujungere se Citatis: this he could not do, if thus he was commanded to answer for himself alone. The Praeses answered, that by the De∣cree of the States they were accounted no Colledge; but only as they were cited, so were they to answer Capitatim and by Poll.

And as for Isaacus since he knew that the Synod accounted of him as of one of the Citati, he could not be ignorant that his quality was the same with theirs. Isaacus answered that he had ever∣more been averse from sudden disputations, and therefore he meant not to answer. Here it was denyed by some of the Re∣monstrants, that the States had made any Decree that they should thus give answer capitatim. The Delegates for the Se∣culars stood up, and signified viva voce, that they had decreed it. Episcopius answered, that the Scribe (Heinsius) used some such words, but he took it to have been only some phrase of Heinsius, not any Decree of the Lords. Heinsius replyed that he did nothing but what he was commanded. Episcopius pro∣tested, that till that hour he never heard that by any Decree of the States they were enjoyned to answer thus singly, and by Poll. Poppius signifyed that he thought it a thing very unbe∣fitting both his age and his Ministery, to submit himself to such a Paedagogica collatio, as sometimes by Martinus Gregorii it had been styled. The Praeses then askt them all in general, whether they did persist in this their answer. They all replyed, Yea. The Remon∣strants therefore being dismist, the Praeses required the Synod to think what course they would take to proceed, protesting that he thought that all Liberty befitting was granted unto them: and calling in the Remonstrants again, and advising them to consider what they did: they all replyed, that they were re∣solved, non capitatim; sed conjunctim respondere. The President of the Politicks commanded them, that without peculiar leave granted, none of them should go out of the Town. The Praeses Ecclesiasticus advising the Synod to think of some course of gathering the Remonstrants opinions out of their Books, since they could not get them from themselves, dismist the Company.

The same day after dinner was there a Session, but very pri∣vate, neither was any stranger permitted to be there. Where∣fore a Relation of that Session I must give only upon hearsay. Which I would now have done, but that I hasten to the Sessi∣on this morning. And I understand that the Synod will dispatch some of their Company to the States General, to signify how matters stand, and to know their further pleasure. I will here therefore shut up my Letters, reserving the rest of the News till

the next occasion, and commending your Honour to Gods good Protection I humbly take my leave.

Dort this 17/2••. of Decemb. 1618.

Your Honours Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

THe State of our Synod now suffers a great crisis, and one way or other there must be an alteration. For either the Remonstrant must yield, and submit himself to the Synod, of which I see no great probability: or else, the Synod must vail to them, which to do, farther than it hath already done, I see not how it can stand with their Honour. How the case stood at the last Friday Session, your Honour may perceive by my Letters writ∣ten upon Saturday. Three things there were mainly urged by the Synod, and as mainly withstood by the Remonstrants. The first was the point of order to be held in discussing the Articles: whether the question of Reprobation were to be handled after the five Articles, as the Synod would have had it, because it is none of the five points, and by order from the States nothing ought to be determined of till the five be discust: or whether it should be handled in the first place, as the Remon∣strants would have it; because, as they pretended, their doubts lay especially there, and that being cleared, they thought they should shew good conformity in the rest. The second thing, was the putting of Interrogatories, which thing they much dis∣dained as Pedagogical. The Third was the liberty of Disputation which was to be given the Remonstrants, whether it were to be limited and circumscribed by the discretion of the Synod, or large and unlimited, accordingly as it pleased the Remon∣strants. So strongly in these points did the Remonstrants with∣stand the Synod, that on Friday last it was verily thought they would have gone their way, and left the Commissioners to deter∣mine without them. But the Synod bearing an inclination to peace, and wisely considering the nature of their people, resol∣ved yet farther, though they had yielded sufficiently unto them

already, yet to try a little more, the rather to stay the clamour of the Country, and cut off all suspicion of Partial dealing. And for this purpose called a private Session on Friday in the Evening, to mollify some things in their Decrees and Proceed∣ings. From that Session all strangers were excluded, and what I write I do only upon Relation. The sum of it was this. The Praeses much complain'd him of the perplexity he was in, by rea∣son of the pertinacy of the Remonstrants. For, saith he, if we labour to keep them here, they will be but a hindrance to us, as hitherto they have been, if we dismiss them, we shall hazard our credit among the people, as if we purposed only to do what we please. Whatsoever it is that here we do, is by some that come hither and write all they hear, presently eliminated, and carried to them, which hath caused many hard reports to pass of us, both with them and otherwhere. He therefore com∣mended to the Synod to consider whether there might not be found some means of accommodation, which might somewhat mollify the Remonstrant, and yet stand well with the Honour of the Synod. And first, to make way, they read the Letters which in the morning by publick Decree of the States were for∣bidden to read (a pretty matter in so grave a place, to break those edicts in the Evening, which but in the Morning had been so solemnly proclaimed) and to speak truth, their Decrees have hi∣therto been mere matter of formality to affright them a little, for none of them have been kept; (as being found to be Pouder without Shot, and give a clap, but do no harm.) The Letters being read they began to deliver their minds. Some thought the Synod had been too favourable to the Remonstrants alrea∣dy, and that it were best now not to hold them if they would he going, since hitherto they had been, and for any thing ap∣peared to the contrary, meant hereafter to be a hindrance to all Peaceable and orderly proceedings. Others on the contrary thought fit that all should be granted them which they required, to surcease the Interrogatories, to let them speak of Reprobati∣on in what place, in what manner, and how much they pleased, since this took from them all pretence of exception, and pre∣judiced not the Synods power of determining what they pleased. A third sort thought it better to hold a middle course and under colour of Explanation, to mollifie some of their Decrees. This

sort prevailed, and accordingly it was concluded that the De∣cree of the Synod (of this decree I gave your Honour the sum in my Saturday Letters) made in the morning, should be more largely and Significantly drawn, and withall in it should be ex∣prest how far it pleased the Synod to be indulgent unto the Re∣monstrants in the points in Question. The Forraign Divines were requested, that they would conceive some Reasons by way of Answer to these late exceptions of the Remonstrants, and give them up in writing the next Session, to try whether by these means they might make them a little to relent. This is all was done that Session, which though it seem but litle, yet being handled with much and long Speaking among so many, took up a long time.

On Munday the 21/•••• of December, in the Morning the Synod be∣ing set, Iohannes Polyander made a Latin Sermon. His Theme was the seventh verse of the two and fiftieth of Isaiah. O quam speciosi in montibus, &c. he spake much of the greatness of Ecclesi∣astical Function; First in regard of their dignity in the word Spe∣ciosi; Secondly of their industry, in the word Montibus, which ar∣gues them either to be Pastores or Speculatores; Thirdly of the suavity of their Doctrine in the word Peace and Good things; After this he fell Pathetically to bewail the torn State of the Bel∣gick Churches: and to commend the diligence of the Synod in endavouring to establish their Churches Peace. This was the sum of his Sermon, it being only a passionate strain, and contein∣ing nothing much Remarkable either for Doctrine or News. The Praeses in the Name of the Synod gave him great thanks: and signified that he had many causes Sperare optima quaeque de Synodo: but that Gods good Spirit was indeed amongst them, he gathered especially by this Argument, that so many Learned and Pious Sermons had in this place been lately made: and so he dismist the Company.

Concerning Monsieur Moulins proposition, of which your Ho∣nour required my opinion, thus I think. His project consists of two heads, of a General Confession, and of a peaceable treaty for Union with the Lutheran Churches. I imagine that the Ge∣nerality of the Confessions must not include the Lutheran. For if it doth, then are both parts of his proposition the same: it be∣ing the same thing to procure one general Confession of Faith

and a Union. Supposing then that this Confession stretches not to them, I will do as Iupiter doth in Homer, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉. I will grant him one part, and deny him the other. For a general Confession of Faith, at least so far as those Churches stretch who have Delegates here in the Synod, I think his project very possible, there being no point of Faith in which they differ. If therefore the Churches shall give power to their Delegates, to propose it to the Synod, I see no reason but it should pass. But I did not like the intimation concerning Church-Government. It had I think been better not menti∣oned: not that I think it possible that all Churches can be Go∣vern'd alike (for the French Church being sub cruce cannot well set up Episcopal jurisdiction) but because it may seem to his Majesty of Great Britain, that his excepting the point of Go∣vernment might not proceed so much from the consideration of the Impossibility of the thing, as from want of love and liking of it in the Person. Now for that part of the proposition which concerns the Lutheran, either it aimes at a Union in Opinion or a mutual toleration. The first is without all question impossible. For in the point of the Sacrament and the dependences from it, as the ubiquity of Christs manhood, the Person of Christ, the Communi∣catio idiomatum, &c. Either they must yield to us, or we to them, neither of which probable. Their opinions have now obtain'd for a Hundred years, ever since the beginning of the Reformation, and are derived from the chief Author of the Re∣formation. It is not likely therefore that they will easily fall, that have such Authority and so many years to uphold them. But I suppose, Monsieur Moulins intended only a mutual toleration; and be it no more, yet if we consider the indisposition of the persons with whom we are to deal, I take this likewise to be im∣possible. The Lutherans are divided into two sorts, either they are Molliores, as they call them, or Rigidi. What hope there may be of moderation in the first I know not, but in the second we may well despair of. For they so bear themselves, as that it is evident they would rather agree with the Church of Rome, than with the Calvinist. He that is conversant in the writings of Hun∣nius and Grawerus, will quickly think as I do. The first of which hath so bitterly written against Calvin, that Parsons the Jesuit furnisht himself by compiling Hunnius his Books. If the whole

lump be Leaven'd, as those two pieces, which I but now named, they are certainly too sowre for Moderate men to deal with. The French wits are naturally active and projecting: and with∣all carry evermore a favourable conceit to the Possibility of their projects. Out of this French conceit I suppose proceeded this of M. Moulins.

Mr. Dean went away to the Hague, giving notice to no man. I understood not till dinner that day, of any intent he had to go. I wisht him an ill journey for this discourtesy; but I hope he had a good one. I fear I well wearied your Honour with these my long Letters, I will therefore take my leave, commending your Lordship to Gods good protection.

Dort, 1. of January, Style novo. 1619.

Your Honours Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

WHat hath lately been done at the Hague in the business con∣cerning our Synod, and what Decree the States have made to restrain the exorbitancy of the Remonstrants, I suppose is sufficiently know unto your Lordship, as a thing done in your presence. So much therefore of it as shall serve the present purpose I will take, and leave the rest to your Honours better knowledge. Upon Thursday the third of Ianuary stylo novo, the Commissioners being met, and the Delegates ready to de∣clare the pleasure of the States, the Remonstrants being call'd in, two of them were found wanting, Isaacus Friderici, and Henri∣cus Leo: for Isaacus it was answered, that he had leave on Fri∣day last, of the Praetor of the Town to go abroad: for Leo it was answered, that they knew not where he was. Having sent for Leo, and while in vain expected him the Delegates proceeded to declare the will of the Lords, and signified that the States allowed the Proceedings of the Synod, and commanded the Re∣monstrants to obey for the present, and whatsoever Decrees hereafter the Delegates and Synod should enact; and if they re∣fused to obey, they should expect, both Civil and Ecclesiastical censure. If this served not yet the Synod should go forward, and

gather their opinions out of their Books and writings; That the Remonstrants should be commanded to remain in the Town, and be ready to appear whensoever the Synod should summon them, and answer plainly and directly to such Interrogatories as it should please the Synod to propose them. This first was read in Dutch, and afterwards for the information of the Forreigners it was put into Latin. The Praeses then put to them that Question, which in one of the former Sessions he had proposed, viz. Whether or no they did acknowledge the Articles set down in the Hague Conference to contain their opinions, and amongst the rest, that first concerning Election, which by the Scribe was read un∣to them out of the Book. Episcopius beginning to make answer, Martinus Gregorii commanded that their answers should be taken and set down in their own words. Episcopius his answer was this. Om∣nibus in timore Domini expensis, & adjunctis etiam ad Deum pre∣cibus, non possum impetrare ab anima mea, ut aliam agendi ratio∣nem sequar, quam eam quae ultimo responso meo exhibita est. This their answer, of which he speaks, was given on Saturday last, as I have informed your Honour, and it was this, That except the Synod in antecessum, as they spake, would beforehand promise them that they should have free Liberty to propose their own opinion of Reprobation, and refute the Contra-Remonstrants Doctrine in that point, together with the Doctrine of all those whom the Contra-Remonstrants held for Orthodox, and that as far as they pleased without receiving any check from the Synod, they were resolved to go no further. The same was the answer of the rest, with some alteration of Words; for they were questi∣oned one by one, every one by himself. Hollingerius an∣swered, that he could not eant recipere legem, eamque ingredi vi∣am, which tended openly to the ruin and oppression of the bet∣ter cause. For by so doing he should grievously wound his Con∣science before God, and cast irreparabile scandalum before the true worshippers of God. Imitabor itaque exemplum Christi: Silebo & omnem eventum commendabo illi qui venturus est ad judi∣candum vivos & mortuos. Neranus spake after the same manner, and added, that the Reasons why they thus thought themselves bound to answer, they had exhibited this Morning to the Secu∣lar Delegates. Poppius gave answer thus, Respondeo, cum de∣bita erga jummas Potestates reverentia, me invocato sanctissimo Dei

nomine, & re tota etiam atque etiam expensa apud animum meum, non posse desistere ab ultimo meo responso. Exhibuimus rationes Do∣minis Delegatis in quibus etiamnam acquiesco, certo persuasus id quod facio Deo Optimo maximo & Christo Iesu probatum iri. Martinus Gregorii advised him here to bethink himself a little whether or no he spake not these words in Passion (for he seemed to be some∣what Cholerick) He replyed, that he spake them with his best advice. The Praeses perceiving that they were resolved not to Answer, concluding the questions which he had proposed, thought that the Synod might without scruple accept of the first Article in their Remonstrance at the Hague, for their proper te∣nent. He proceeded therefore to propose unto them another Interrogatory: Whether or no that Decree which they spake of in that first Article, did contain the whole Decree of Election, and so were the main ground of Christianity; or whether there were not some Decree besides this. The behaviour and answers of the Remonstrants carried the same Copy of Countenance with the former, and Poppius plainly answered, Quia conscientiae meae à Synodo non habetur ratio, non expecto ab ea instructionem in ve∣ritate: ideoque consultum non est respondere. The Praeses then citing some Texts out of Iohannes Arnoldi, and Arminius, and the Hague Conference, concluded that it was their opinion, that be∣sides that Decree mentioned in the Conference, they acknow∣ledged no farther Decree of Election. In the third place this question was put to the Remonstrants: whether when they taught, that God chose Man propter fidem praevisam, this were not rather to be called an Election of (Faith) than of the person; since the person was chosen for the qualities sake. But they were still the same. Neranus was the man that gave it, but it was the com∣mon answer of them all: Si liceat nobis de Reprobatione, & Contra-Remonstrantium sententia super ea agere quantum nobis conscientia nostra & Ecclesiarum nostrarum aedificatio persuadebit sufficere, & hoc nobis in antecessum promittatur, libenter ad quaesita respondebimus: si minus, silere malumus. Now because they had often appealed to their Reasons exhibited in Scripto to the Secular Delegates that Morning, the Delegates thought good to read the writing in the Audience of the Synod. It contained almost no new thing, but was repetition of their old exceptions, that their Liberty was prejudiced, that the Synod was pars adversa (and for farther

illustration of this, they reckoned up all the sharp speeches that e∣ther Scultetus or the Divines of Geneva, or any other had used against them) that their Consciences would not allow of this man∣ner of proceeding, &c.

This last Night was there a private meeting, not by way of Session, but only it was a Conference to which some of the Gra∣ver and Discreeter of the Synod were called. The end was only to advise what course is best to be holden in the following dispu∣tations. It was thought fit that the Remonstrants should alwayes be present at their meetings; and questions should be proposed them: but the Synod should proceed whether they answered or no: and so they concluded of a course to gather their opinions out of their Books. Mr. Amyes will inform your Lordship more largely peradventure in some farther circumstances. His sud∣den and unexpected departure hath made me scrible up this, more rudely and concisely than I had intended, because I was loth to miss of so good a Messenger. Wherefore I cease any further to trouble your Honour, and remit you to Mr. Amyes lar∣ger Relation.

Dort this Fourth of January, stylo novo. 1619.

Your Honours Chaplain, and Bounden in all Duty and Service, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

UPon Wednesday the ninth of Ianuary, Stylo novo, the Synod met not at all. Time was given the Deputies to advise of the Theses which were to be handled: only at Night the Eng∣lish went in private to the Praeses to consult what manner of pro∣ceeding were fittest to be used. What counsel they gave him I know not: but this I see, that the course he taketh is not al∣together so well approved by them. Upon Thursday the tenth of Ianuary the Commissioners met in the morning in private, where Mr. Praeses proposed unto them four things to be consider∣ed of. First whether or no the Theses proposed by him formerly did not perfectly contain the opinion of the Remonstrants. Secondly,

An electio sit una an Multiplex, that so he might exclude the Remon∣strants Division of Election in Revocabilem & irrevocabilem; completam & incompletam, &c. Thirdly, An electio sit ex fide & obedientia, au potius ad fidem & obedientiam. For this is one main point of difference: the Remonstrant teaches that God fore∣saw only who would believe, and so ordained and Elected only to Glory: The Contra-Remonstrant teacheth, that God ordained who should believe, and so Predestinated and Elected both to Grace and Glory. The fourth thing proposed was concerning the means how true believers become sure of their Salvation. After this the Synod was requested to deliver themselves concerning a Method or proposing and examining the Theses proposed. The greatest part of them liked well of that form which the Praeses pro∣posed. The English, the South-Hollanders and Festus Hommi∣us conceived severally a form of Theses, every man accord∣ing to his discretion, and exhibited them to the judgement of the Synod, and had them publickly read: this was the summe of that meeting. A Copy of the Theses drawn by our English∣men I will send your Honour, as soon as I can procure the sight of them.

The same day at Evening the Deputies met in private as be∣fore. They continued yet their consultation upon the point of manner of proceeding. The Praeses invented certain new Interroga∣tories and propounded them to the Synod, to know their minds whether it were not fit to propose them to the Remonstrants. There was great doubt whether this were a thing fit to be done, since it is not likely that the Remonstrants behaviour in this behalf will be any other than hitherto it had been. This question, as it seems, was the greatest part of their consul∣tation. It was at length Concluded that the Remonstrants should be called in, and the Interrogatories put to them, the next Session. This Morning therefore we look for an open Session, where we shall understand the last nights Interrogato∣ries, and the whole business of that Session. For I must con∣fess I do not well conceive what was then done, or to what pur∣pose. I perceive there is some variance about their form of pro∣ceeding: Mr. Praeses is desirous that the course he hath thought of may take place; the English and others, that some more ready and compendious way may be taken. What will be

the Issue of it, I cannot yet conjecture; as soon as I can under∣stand any thing, I will acquaint your Honour, till when I humbly take my leave.

Dort this 1/••1 of January: 1619.

Your Honours Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty, and service, Jo. Hales.

I suppose Mr. Amyes can better inform your Honour of this last nights business. He hath been much with the Praeses, and I i∣magine understands most of his intent.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

YOur Lordship by your kind Letters doth ingage me so far, as I should think it not the least part of my happiness, if I could but hit on any way whereby I might express, in any pro∣portion, my thankfulness for the same; but since that cannot be, acknowledgement of non solvendo must pass for satisfaction. In that Letter which I wrote to my Lord of Buckingham, (where∣in I mentioned your Lordships wonderful kindness to me) I entreated his Lordship to move his Majesty, that either by my Lord of Canterbury his Letters, or Mr. Secretaries, I being joy∣ned with the English, we might make up one Collegium Theologo∣rum Magnae Britanniae: Now this last week my Lord sent me word, that he gave my Letter to the King, who did read it o∣ver, and liked the motion well, and so accordingly gave or∣der for it: he sent me word likewise that the King had the Episcopii Theses which I sent, and that he was mightily incensed at them. So my very good Lord, I am well satisfied in that point; for we have now divided the business among us. D. Ward his part assigned to him is, Impugnatio Decreti de salvandis fideli∣bus, & unico Decreto praedestinationis: My Lord of Landaff his part is, Respons••o ad Argumenta Remonstrantium, quibus prins illud de∣cretum conantur stabilire: D. Goad his part, Impugnatio Electio∣nis peremptoriae ex fide praevisa: and demonstratio bujus Propositio∣nis, quod fides sit fructus Electionis, which doth coincidere with the other. D. Davenant his part is, Orthodoxae sententiae assertio, & vin∣dicatio

rationunt Contra-Remonstrantium ab objectionibus Remon∣strantium in utroque membro. My part is, Solutio omnium argu∣mentorum quae afferunt Remonstrantes contra Orthodoxam sententiam. The confusion here in handling of business is very great; they do not know how to put any thing to Committees to a∣gree of business, and then afterward to propound it to the Sy∣nod to be approved or disproved; which hath been the custom observed in all Councils and Synods: but nothing is known till it be propounded in the Synod, and then there are almost as many several voices as heads; if your Lordship would give your ad∣vice to some of the Estates in this kind, it may be they would apprehend it, and we should bring business to some issue. The Palatine Divines and we have met now three times, and we have agreed on the same Propositions, and have resolved to call one of every Colledge of the Forreign Divines, and communicate the same with them; that so, if it be possible, all we strangers may set up, and throw down the same Conclusions. For the Provincials, for any thing I can see, they are so far set against the Remonstrants, I wish not their persons as well as their opinions, that I am afraid they will not like well of our Moderation. For the Dismission of the Remonstrants, since your Lordship is pleased to take notice of it, I hope I may without offence say that it was such, as certainly did the Synod much wrong. On Friday when they seemed to yield, then the Exteri Theologi could not be heard for the continuing of them in the Synod. Nay the trick which was put upon them was a little too palpable; For the Delegates had their Decree of Dismission written before they came into the Synod, yet our voices were asked, hoping it should have been answer∣able to their Decree: but finding it was otherwise, without so much as laying their heads together for consultation, they pub∣lished a Decree which they brought written with them into the Sy∣nod. On Munday the late Acts of the Remonstrants incredible obstinacy being read; the Theologi exteri gave suffrages for their dismission; onely one to wit Steinius gave a bitter sentence; their voices being asked only, who are not above a third part of the Synod, they were called in and dismist with such a powder∣ing speech as I doubt not but your Lordship hath heard with grief enough, I protest I am much afflicted when I think of it. For if the Remonstrants should write, that the President pro∣nounced

a sentence, which was not the sentence of the Synod, they should not lie. The Civil Lawyers and Cannon of France, who write much about the formalities omitted in the Council of Trent, urge Exceptions of less moment than these; so neither was there above a Third part of the voices asked, ex quibus sententia ferri nequit: neither was the sentence conceived in writt, and approved by the Synod, and the bitter words in the Sentence were not the words of any of the suffrages, unless that some of them were spoken by one man only. Your Lordships Censure of that Sentence is just and honourable. Mr. Dean of Worcester at his going from hence, with the Remembrance of his service to your Lordship, desired me to signifie to your Lordship, that he could not possibly meet with Deodatus. The Remonstrants, (as Heinsius but now told me) have sent a very virulent and bitter writing to Mr. Bogarmanne, it may be now we shall hear of it at the Synod, whither we are going: so with the remem∣brance of my humblest Duty and service to your Lordship and your worthy Lady, I must conclude a Petitioner, that your Lordship would ever be pleased to reckon among your true ob∣servers.

Dort, this 13 of Febr. 1618.

Your very dutiful, and faithful Servant, W. Belcanqual.

Right Honourable, and my very good Lord,

IT hath pleased the Synod at length finally to discharge them∣selves of the Remonstrants, and to proceed according as they had projected by gathering their opinions out of their Books. The manner of their dismission was this. Upon Munday the 1 4/4 of Ianuary the Commissioners being set, the Praeses Politicus made a short speech to this purpose. That they had hitherto laboured as much as in them lay to have the Decree of the Estates to be kept, and to bring the Remonstrants to some rea∣sonable resolution. And for this purpose had upon Saturday last in the afternoon, covented them and advised them to give up their opinions, quietly, orderly, freely, and to refute the con∣trary

as much as they thought fit, reserving alwayes to the Synod Authority to judge of what was convenient, what was sufficient, without which it could be no Synod. That they had undertaken in their behalf, that the Synod should so mannage the business, that they should have no just cause to complain. But all this la∣bour was lost, neither would they be brought to relinquish their former plea; for in a writing exhibited unto them they signified so much in effect, in which writing they referred themselves to such conditions as had been by them partly scripto, partly viva voce formerly required. Wherefore they thought fit that it should be proposed to the Synod to judge whether or no there had not been sufficient order taken to give contentment to the Re∣monstrants, if at least any thing could content them. Yet they thought it convenient once more to call the Remonstrants be∣fore them, to see whether they would leave their holdfast and submit to the Synod. If no, then they should without any far∣ther delay proceed to judge of their opinions by collecting them out of their Writings. This was the sum of that speech. The writing mentioned by the Praeses Politicus in his speech was then read first in Dutch, then in Latin, in which the Remon∣strants, declared that they would submit themselves to the Sy∣nod upon such conditions as had been formerly required, other∣wise no. After this was the Synod requested to deliver their opinions, whether order sufficient to content the Remonstrants had not been taken. It was judged generally that more could not be granted them than had already been, which was they thought abundantly sufficient. S••ultetus did in brief give as it were a History or rather an Inventory of the Remonstrants be∣haviour since their first appearance before the Synod, and shewed how contumeliously they had handled it, how they had contemned the Decrees of the Seculars and of the Synod, that they had a∣bused them with lyes, deceitful speeches, &c. And concluded that it was unfit the Synod should farther condescend unto them. When the Forreigners had spoken, it was thought sufficient, nei∣ther did the Praeses proceed to ask the judgement of the Provin∣cials, knowing belike before what it was. The Remonstrants then being called in, the Praeses signified to them that upon Fri∣day Morning they had given good hope of peaceable dealing, and at least in shew seemed to forgoe such conditions as they

had formerly claimed, he was now in the name of the Synod to require them to answer Categorically, yea or no, an voluit simpli∣citer & sine conditione parere Decreto Ordinum & Synodi & ita simpliciter venire in rem praesentem. The Remonstrants for answer require that they may be permitted to road a short writing which they had conceived, it was answered that it needed not, there was no more required, but their yea or no, but they persisted in their proposal, the Writing was taken and delivered to the Seculars to be perused, and they commanded to withdraw. Their writing was read, wherein having signified, how welcome the moderati∣on held by the Forreigners lately was unto them; whereas they were injoyned to obey the Synodical Decree, or look for punish∣ment, their answer was that it could not stand with their Consci∣ence to promise Obedience to all Synodical Decrees, since many of them stood not with common Equity, and as for Mulct and pu∣nishment, they left it to the Discretion of those to whose Govern∣ment they were subject; they would provide their patience. That they intend not to contest with the Synod concerning order: that they promised to submit: but with such conditions as they had heretofore mentioned. Thus as the Praeses said, what they gave with the one hand, with the other they took away again. The Remon∣strants being again called in, they were asked every man whether thy acknowledged this answer, they all replyed they did, and so were commanded to subscribe their Names to it, which forthwith was done. The Praeses then bespake them on this manner.

The moderation of the Forreigners which you so much extolled, pro∣ceeded out of their Errour which to day having understood, they have pronounced concerning you another sentence.

Upon Friday last when you seemed to disclaim all illimited Liberty, and gave hope of some Conformity, they dealt with the Synod in favour of you: but to day understanding you to abuse the Synod, and fly back again to your former claim, they all with one consent think you indignos esse quibuscum diutius res agatur. One amongst them there is who hath taken the paines to Mappe out your behaviour since your first footing in the Sy∣nod. Pretend you what you will, the true cause of this your in∣disposition is this, that you take the Synod for the Adverse part, and account your selves in Equal place with them, this conceit hath manifested it self in all your actions. Theses upon the questi∣on

in controversy you gave up, but so confused, so nothing to the purpose that no use can be made of them. The Decrees of the Synod you have openly contemned. The Interrogatories put you, you have refused to answer. Your Citatory Letters not∣withstanding the sence of them was expounded by those who gave them, and therefore best knew it, you have interpreted as you list, and profest that you will proceed according to your own judgement, and not according to the judgment of the Sy∣nod. At length on Friday last you seemed to lay by your claim of illimited Liberty and give some hope of some conformity; but all this in your writing now exhibited you have retracted. The Synod hath dealt mildly, gently and favourably with you, but sinceritat••, lenitati, mansuetudini Synodi, fraudes, artes & men∣dacia opposuistis. I will dismiss you with no other Elogie than one of the Forreigners gave you, quo caepistis pede eodem cedite, with a lye you made your entrance into the Synod, with a lye you take your leave of it, in denying lately that ever you pro∣tested your selves provided to give answer on the Articles, or to have had any such writing ready, which all the Synod knows to be false. Your actions all have been full of fraud, equivocati∣ons and deceit. That therefore the Synod may at length piously and peaceably proceed to the perfecting of that business for which it is come together, you are dismist. But assure you the Synod shall make known your pertinacy, to all the Christian World, and know that the Belgick Churches want not arma Spi∣ritualia, with which in time convenient they will proceed against you. Quamobrem vos Delegatorum & Synodi nomine dimitto, Ex∣ite.

So with much muttering the Remonstrants went out; and Episcopius going away said, Dominus Deus judicabit de fraudibus & mendaciis: Sapma, Exeo ex ecclesia malignantium: and so the Synod brake up.

The same day at night there was a private Session; what was done in it I understand not yet. I conjecture it was concerning the order of proceeding. As soon as I shall understand what was done I will acquaint Your Lordship with it, and till then I hum∣bly take my leave.

Dort this •••• of January. 1618.

Your Honours Chaplain and bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord.

SInce the Dismission of the Remonstrants there hath not been any publick Session, and as I conjecture for a while will not be. They are altogether in Consultation concerning their order of proceeding, and in gathering materials out of the Remon∣strants Books, whence they may Frame their Theses and proposi∣tions which must be the subject of their disputation. This they purpose, as I conceive, to do throughout all the five Articles, be∣fore they come to the open discussing of any one, for they are past from the first, and gone on to the second. So that till this Consultation be ended there will not be any great occasion o•• news.

Against Mr. Praeses so rough handling the Remonstrants at their Dismission, there are some exceptions taken by the Deputies themselves. The Forreigners think themselves a little indirectly dealt withal, in that it being proposed to the whole Synod to pass their judgement concerning the behaviour of the Remonstrants, the Provincials were not at all required to speak, and by these means the envy of the whole business was derived upon the Forreigners. Whereas on the contrary when the like question was proposed formerly, and the Forreigners had spoken very favourably in the Remonstrants behalf, the Provincials struck in, and establisht a rigid sentence against the Forreigners liking. So that there is little regard given to the judgement of the Forreigners, except they speak as the Provincials would have them. Again, upon the Tuesday Session in the morning, there being a repetition made, according to the custom of the late Synodical acts, when they came to the act of the Remonstrants Dismission, Lud. Crosius of Breme signified that he perceived that Mr. Praeses in that business had been paulo com∣motior, and had let slip, verba quaedam acerba, which might well have been spared; that in so great an act, as that was, a little more advice and consideration might have been used. The Synod ought to have been consulted with, and a form of Dismission con∣ceived and approved of by all, which should in the name of the Synod have been pronounced, and registred; whereas now the Synod stands indicted of all that unnecessary roughness which then was practised. It had stood better with the Honor of the

Synod to have held a more peaceable and passionless order. The Praeses replyed, That for Dismissing the Remonstrants without a Synodical form, it was from the Secular Lords, who willed him immediately to proceed. What his apologie was for his passionate speeches I know not. The Session was in private, and I have no∣thing but by relation. I hear nothing yet from Mr. Praeses con∣cerning the French project: as soon as I shall hear ought, I will not fail to acquaint your Honor, till when I humbly take my leave.

Dort, ••/•••• January, 1618.

Your Honors Chaplain, and Bounden in all Duty Jo. Hales.

The bringer of this Letter is Sir Iohn Berks Son.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

YOur Honour shall here receive the Decree of the Synod men∣tioned in my last Letters, conteining the form of proceed∣ing which they will hold in discussing the Articles. The morning they mean the Deputies shall spend in private, after dinner in o∣pen Synod the chief places of Scripture upon which the Remon∣strant grounds himself shall be opened, and answers fram'd to the Arguments drawn from thence. According to which resolution they began to proceed upon Thursday the 7/17 of Ianu. in the Even∣ing. The question proposed then was, An praeter Decretum de sal∣vandis fidelibus, nullum sit aliud Decretum Electionis. The Re∣monstrant affirms there is none, and for this produces certain places of Scripture. The Contra-Remonstrant grants that there is such a Decree, but withal contends that this is but a Secondary Decree. For God (saith he) first resolved upon the Salvation of some certain singular persons, and in the second place decreed to give them Faith as a means to bring the former Decree to pass. But be∣fore this question came on the stage, other things were done at that time. The Synod therefore being met, at the time mentioned, First the Letters from the States concerning D. Goads Admission were read, and after that, some were sent to his Lodging to conduct

him to the Synod. In the mean time were there Letters from Mr. Dean to the Synod produced and read, together with a form of Valediction and farewel, by him conceived. I suppose Mr. Dean ac∣quainted your Honor with the thing whilst he was with you, which is the cause I have not sent a transcript of it: as soon as I under∣stand your Lordship hath not seen it, I will cause a Copy of it to be taken. It was then concluded by the Synod that the Praeses, and Assessors, together with the Seculars Scribe, should, after the Synod was ended, repair to Mr. Dean, and take their leave of him in the name of all the rest, and by him commend their love and service unto his Majesty, and render him humble thanks for his prinely care. All which the same night was done. Now was Dr. Goade come to the Synod, and according to the manner, con∣ducted to his seat, where being sate, he made a short speech, which being ended, the Synod proceeded to discuss the question above mention'd. The Decree is, that the Professors shall expound those places of Scripture, on which the Remonstrant builds. Wherefore Io. Polyander, who is the Senior Professor, being absent, Sibrandus Lubbertus, who is the next in order, took the question, and answer'd such Texts as were urged by the Adversary, one out of Joh. 3.36. Qui credit in filium habot vitam aeternam: qui non credit non videbit vitam, sed ira Dei manet super eo: Another out of Ephes. 1.4. Elegit nos in Christo ante jacta mundi fundamenta: A third out of Heb. 11. Impossibile est sine fide placere Deo. The summe of Sibrandus his answer at that time I cannot give. For being misinform'd that it would be but a private Session, I was not at it. Besides Sibrandus no man spake any thing that night. As soon as he had done, it was signified by the Praeses that the Campenses, who were lately cited, were now ready to make their appearance. It was concluded, that because the business of the Synod should not be interrupted, certain out of the company should be appoint∣ed to hear the cause, and make relation of it to the Synod: so the Praeses concluded the Session with a prayer, in which he prayed for Mr. Dean's Health, and for the good success of his journey. This was the summe of what was then done, and so I end, committing your Honour to Gods good protection.

Dort, this 8/•••• of January.

Your Honours Chaplain and bounden in all Duty and Service, Jo. Hales.

The Synodical Decree of the sixt of Ianuary, concern∣ing the manner of handling the five Articles.

COllatis diligenter per D. Praesidem, Assessores & Scri∣bas ex praescripto illustrium D D. Delegatorum suf∣fragiis omnibus, tum Scripto tum viva voce heri ac nu∣diustertius in veneranda hac Synodo dictis super modo a∣gendi circa examen & judicium quinque Articulorum: compertum est plurimis placere, ut singula quamprimum Collegia ad examen illud instituendum judiciumque for∣mandum serio se accingant. Ac primo quidem loco in ma∣nus sumant primum Articulum. In cujus examine, ut & deinceps in caeterorum, ad interrogatoria & Theses à D. Praeside dictata, ut & postea dictanda, quilibet in primis attendat. Si quis tamen plura, quae ad sententiam Remon∣strantium proponendam & explicandam facere possunt, quae forte in Thesibus & interrogatoriis istis indicata non sunt, addere velit & possit, id cuique liberum relinquatur: & ut privatim singula collegia ante Meridiem de hoc exa∣mine cogitabunt; ita post Meridiem ne Synodus intermissa, ac nulla auditorum Spectatorumque ex omnibus passim oris quotidie accurrentium ratio haberi videatur, publicus, ni∣si omnino res ipsa aliud postulaverit, conventus celebra∣bitur: in quo potissima Remonstrantium argumenta maxime ex Scripturis desumpta, ipsorum{que} adeo ad contrariae senten∣tiae argumenta maxime ex Scripturis desumpta responsiones proponentur & excutientur, praeeuntibus D D. Doctoribus ac Professoribus nunc nostratibus, nunc exteris ad Arbitrium D. Praesidis: relicta interim singulis libertate dictis addendi, & suam etiam de praepositis argumentis sententiam dicendi.

Quare necesse quoque erit ut quilibit seriò de argumentis istis & responsionibus apud se cogitet ac meditetur. Dabit autem operam D. Praeses singulis Sessionibus, ut ea de quibus proxima Sessione erit agendum universae Synodo fignificet. Ac si quis fuerit, qui de quoquam, quod forte à D. Praeside monitum non fuerat, judicium Synodi audire sua vel ali∣orum causa desideret, ejus, si privatim D. Praesidem appel∣laverit, ratio habebitur, prout ipse adhibito consilio Asses∣sorum & Scribarum, ac si opus fuerit plurium, ex usu Sy∣nodi, aut rei de qua agitur, esse existimaverit. Iudicium formatum de quolibet Articulo, additis rationibus quibus subnixum est, Praesidi privatim exhibebitur asservandum, donec de omnibus judicium Articulis judicium formatum & similiter exhibitum fuerit.

Right Honourable, and my very good Lord,

UPon Wednesday the 6/1•• of Ianuary there was no Session at all in the morning, in the evening there was one, but in pri∣vate. In this they have concluded the question about their man∣ner of proceeding. There was a form conceived and concluded upon, and transcribed by all the Deputies. They concluded like∣wise their Theses upon the first Article, which they purpose pub∣lickly to discuss. It was late in the evening ere this Session was done, so that I could not get the Copies of either of these, but in my morrow Letters I will not fail, by Gods grace, to send your Honour the transcripts of them. Besides, there were some things of smaller weight advised of. First, whether in delivering of their judgements upon the Articles in Controversie, the Forreigners should begin as hitherto they had done. The Provincials at first strain'd courtesie, and thought it no point of good manners, to take Precedency of the Forreigners: but it is concluded, they must, as being better tried in these Controversies than the For∣reigners are, and therefore meet it was they should give them

more time to advise. The second thing proposed was con∣cerning their Auditory. For they question'd whether they should admit of hearers, or do all in private. Old Sibrandus was very hot against the Auditory, and thought it not fit that any care should be had of them, as being only Mulierculae, & pauculi juve∣nes incauti. There is some reason of this complaint of his, for many youths, yea and Artificers, and I know not what rabble besides thrust in, and trouble the place. As for women whole troops of them have been seen there, and the best places for spe∣ctators reserved for them. Which thing must needs expose the Synod to the scorn of those, who lye in wait to take exception a∣gainst it. But the Synod hath determined in favour of their Au∣ditory, that Sessions consultatory and Provisional shall be private, but Sessions wherein they discuss and conclude shall be publick. Meetings hereafter will not be so frequent, for men will take more time to advise. This is the summ, as far as I can learn, of what was done at that time. To morrow your Lordship shall re∣ceive farther information, till which time I humbly take my leave.

Dort, this 7/17 of January.

Your Honours Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, and my very good Lord,

UPon Friday the ••8/18 of Ianuary in the Evening, the Synod be∣ing met. Doctor Gomarus answered some parts of Scripture, laid hold of by the Remonstrants, after the same manner as Dr. Sibrandus had done the night before, the places by him discust were for the more part the same which in the former Session had been handled. The order of discussing these arguments is by continued discourse after the manner of Latin Sermons, or rather of Divinity Lectures, such as are read in our Schools. In one thing the Discretion of both these Doctors was much approved. For both of them holding that extream and rigid tenent, which Beza and Perkins first of all acquainted the World with, yet not∣withstanding they held an unpartial and even course and never

struck upon it. When Gomarus had spoken towards an hour and half, my Lord Bishop deliver'd himself concerning the meaning of the same places of Scripture, and after him certain other of the forraign Divines. After this same Copy will all the news be yet this ten days or more, and these evening Sessions are only to en∣tertain the Auditory, not to determine any thing at all. Each company must in private conceive and set down in writing their opinion concerning the Articles; and when they have so done the Writings must be exhibited to the Synod, and out of them must be gathered the Conclusion which must stand for good. This is a thing which will require some good time, and in the mean while besides these Theological Lectures, there shall be nothing done publickly in the Synod. The same day at night Bisterfieldius, one of the Deputies lately come out of Nassau died. When his Funeral will be I know not. Upon Friday Morning Mr. Dean took his journey toward Middlebourgh. Upon Saturday their was no Session at all. Mr. Balcanqual commends his Service unto your Honour, and required me to signifie to you thus much, that he had lately spoken with Musius, but understood nothing by him concerning the matter which your Lordship is privy too. He willed me moreover to inform your Honour, That whereas you lately spake to Mr. Dean to deal with Deodati, Mr. Dean by reason of his indisposition of Body, and sudden departure, found no means to talk with him. Thus with humble recommendation of my Service to your Honour, I take my leave.

Dort, this 11/21 of January.

Your Honours Chaplain and bounden in all Duty and Service, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, and my very good Lord,

THe Errours of publick actions (if they be not very gross) are with less inconvenience tolerated than amended. For the danger of alteration, of disgracing and disabling Au∣thority, makes that the fortune of such proceedings admits no regress, but being once howsoever well or ill done, they must for ever after be upheld. The most partial spectator of

our Synodal acts cannot but confess, that in the late dis∣mission of the Remonstrants, with so much choler and heat, there was a great oversight committed, and that whether we respect our common profession of Christianity, Quae nil nisi justum suadet & lene; or the quality of this people apt to mutine by Reason of long Liberty, and not having learnt to be imperiously commanded, in which argument the Cler∣gy above all men ought not to have read their first Lesson. The Synod therefore to whom it is not now in integro to look back, and rectifie what is amiss without disparagement, must now go forward and leave events to God, and for the Coun∣tenance of their action do the best they may. For this purpose have they lately by Deputies appointed for that end, made a De∣claration of all their procedings unto the States General, from whom they have procured a Decree for Confirmation of them, which Decree upon Munday the 11/21 of Ianuary was publickly, first in Dutch, then in Latin, read at the Synod in the Evening. The particulars of it I shall not need relate, as being sufficiently known to your Honour. The Decree being pronounced, Heinsius first signified that it had been before in private made known to the Re∣monstrants, and then in the name of the Delegates warn'd the Commissioners of the Synod, Vt quam maturime & celerrime de istis controversiis statuant, ut possint tandem afflictis ecclesiis Belgicis subvenire. I was very glad to hear that admonition, and it gives me hope that our Synod shall have end not long after Easter at the farthest. After this did Tysius, another of the Professors, discuss three other of the Remonstrants arguments taken out of the Hague Conference, according to the same form as Sibrandus and Gomarus had done before. This being done, the Praeses required Io. Polyander and Wallaeus to provide to do the like upon Thursday next in the Evening (for before that time there is to be no publick Session) and requesting the Company the next Day to accompany Bisterfieldius to his Grave (which accordingly was done at the time appointed) he dismist the meet∣ing. So that till Thursday next we are likely to understand no no more news of the Synod.

I spake upon Tuesday with Mr. Praeses concerning Moulins project. His answer to me was this, That he communicated the thing with some of the discreeter of the Synod, and that he had required my

Lord Bishop and Soultetus to conceive a form of publick Con∣fession. Which as soon as it should be conceived and allowed of by those, who should in that behalf be consulted withall, he would send a Copy of it to your Honour, to be sent to his Majesty, by him to be revised and altered according to his pleasure, and so from him to be commended unto the Synod publickly. Which course he thinks will take good success. As touching the point concerning the Lutherans, he thinks it not fit that any word at all be made. I dealt with Mr. Praeses concerning a Copy of Mr. Deans Valediction to the Synod; he answered me that he had delivered it to Dammannus the Scribe to be Copi∣ed out, and as soon as it was done, I should have it to transcribe, so soon therefore as I can procure the Copy of it, I will not fail to send it to your Lordship. Mr. Dean at his departure had an Honorarium bestowed on him by the States. Heinsius the Scribe came to his lodging to him, and making a short speech un∣to him, presented him in the Name of the States with munusculum as he called it. What or how much it was no man knows. Thus commending your Honour to Gods good protection, I humbly take my leave.

Dort, this 12/22 of January, 1619.

Your Honours Chaplain, and Bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, and my very good Lord,

UPon Tuesday the 12/22 of this present in the Fvening, for the debating of certain particular points of controversy belonging to the first Article, the Synod came together in pri∣vate. It hath been lately questioned, how Christ is said to be Fundamentum Electionis. The Doctrine generally received by the Contra-Remonstrant in this point is, That God first of all Resolved upon the Salvation of some singular persons, and in the second place upon Christ as a mean to bring this Decree to pass. So that with them God the Father alone is the Author of our E∣lection, and Christ only the Executioner. Others on the con∣trary

teach, that•• Christ is so to be held Fundamentum Electionis, as that he is not only the Executioner of Election, but the Au∣thor and the procurer of it: for proof of which they bring the words of the Apostle to the Ephesians, the first Chapter, elegit nos in Christo ante jacta mundi fundamenta. The Exposition of this Text was the especial thing discust at this meeting: and some taught, that Christ was Fundamentum Electionis, because he was primus Electorum, or because he is Fundamentum Electorum, but not Electionis, or because he is Fundamentum beneficiorum, which descend upon us; others brookt none of those Restraints. D. Go∣marus stands for the former sentence, and in defence of it had said many things on Friday. This night Martinius of Breme being required to speak his mind, signified to the Synod, that he made some scruple concerning the Doctrine passant about the manner of Christs being Fundamentum Electionis, and that he thought Christ not only the Effector of our Election, but also the Author and procurer thereof. Gomarus who owes the Synod a shrewd turn, and then I fear me began to come out of debt; presently, assoon as Martinius had spoken, starts up, and tells the Synod, ego hanc rem in me recipio, and therewithall casts his Glove, and challenges Martinius with this Proverb, Ecce Rhodum, ecce sal∣tum, and requires the Synod to grant them a Duel, adding that he knew Martinius could say nothing in refutation of that Do∣ctrine. Martinius who goes in aequipace with Gomorus in Learn∣ing, and a little before him for his Discretion, easily digested this affront, and after some few words of course, by the wisdom of the Praeses matters seemed to be a little pacified, and so ac∣cording to the custom, the Synod with Prayer concluded. Zeal and Devotion had not so well allayed Gomarus his choler, but immediatly after Prayers he renewed his Challenge and required Combat with Martinius again; but they parted for that night without blowes. Martinius, as it seemes, is somewhat favoura∣ble to some Tenents of the Remonstrants concerning Reprobati∣on, the latitude of Christs merit, the Salvation of Infants, &c. and to bring him to some conformity was there a private meet∣ing of the Forreign Divines upon Wednesday morning in my Lord Bishops Lodging, in which thus much was obtained, that though he would not leave his Conclusions, yet he promised moderation and temper in such manner, that there

should be no dissention in the Synod by reason of any opinion of his.

Upon Thursday the 14/••4 of this present, the Synod being met in the Evening, Io. Polyander and Walaeus undertook the defence of some places of Scripture brought by the Contra-Remonstrants against the exceptions of the Remonstrants: the places of Scrip∣ture were, Luke 10. 20. Gaudete quia nomina vestra scripta sunt in Coelis. Apocal. 21. 27. inscripti in libro vitae. Rom. 9. 11. Vt propositum Dei secundum Electionem maneret, and 11. 5. Reser∣vatio secundum Electionem: and Rom. 8. 13. Quos praedestinavit ut conformes fiant imagini Filii sui, cos etiam vocavit. Act. 13. 48. Crediderunt quotquot erant ordinati ad vitam aeternam. Upon these places these two spake almost three hours.

It was expected that as the rest of the Professours hitherto have done, so Doctour Davenant the next Professour should speak in publick: It is said that he shall do it this day in a private Session (for there is no publick till Munday, and what will then be done I know not.) What the meaning is of this Audience only in private, I know not. But of this I will say more in my next Letters to your Honour, till when I leave your Lordship to Gods good protection.

Dort this 15/••5 of January, 1618.

Your Honours Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Your Honour shall here receive a Copy of Mr. Deans farewel, I fear me it is a little imperfect, for I understand it not in some places. If I can hear of another Copy from Mr. Praeses who promised me one at the begining of this week, and find it to be perfecter, I will again transcribe it.

The Dean of Worcesters Valediction to the Synod.

NOn facile mecum in gratiam redierit cadaverosa haec moles, quam aegre usque circumgest••, quae mi∣hi sacri hujus Conventus celebritatem toties inviderit,

jamque me prorsus invitissimum, a vobis importune a vo∣cat & divellit. Neque enim ullus est profecto sub Coelo locus aeque Coeli aemulus, & in quo tentorium mihi figi maluerim, cujusque adeo gestiet mihi animus meminisse. Beatos vero vos quibus hoc frui datum! Non dignus eram ego ut fidelissimi Romani Querimoniam imitari liceat, qui pro Christi & Ecclesiae suae nomine sanctam hanc pro∣vinciam diutius sustinerem. Illud vero 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉: nempe audito quod res erat, non alia me quam adver∣sissima hic usum valetu dine, serenissimus Rex meus, mi∣sertus miselli famuli sui revocat me domum, quippe quod cineres meos ant sandapilam vobis nihil quicquam pro∣desse posse norit, succenturiavitque mihi virum è suis se∣lectissimum, quantum Theologum! De me profecto, (mero jam silicernio) quicquid fiat, viderit ille Deus meus, cujus ego totus sum. Vobis quidem ita feliciter pro∣spectumest, ut sit cur infirmitati meae haud parum gra∣tulamini, quae hujusmodi instructissimo succedaneo coe∣tum hunc vestrum beaverit. Neque tamen committam, (si Deus vitam mihi ac vires indulserit) ut et corpore simul et animo abesse videar. Interea sane huic Synodo ubicunque terrarum sim, votis, consiliis, conatibusque meis quibuscunque res vestras me pro virili serio ac sedulo promoturum sancte voveo. Interim vobis omni∣bus ac singulis Honoratissimi Domini Delegati, Reverer∣dissime Domine Praeses, Gravissimi Assessores, Symmystae Colendissimi, tibique Venerandissima Synodus Vniversa, aegro animo ac corpore aeternum valedico: rogoque vos omnes obnixius ut precibus vestris imbecillem redu∣cem facere, comitari, et prosequi velitis.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

UPon Tuesday the 19/•••• of Ianuary, at the Evening Session, the point of Reprobation was Scholastically and learnedly discust by Altingius, one of the Palatine Professors. His dis∣course was the most sufficient of any that yet I heard. He be∣gan from the Definition, and proceeded to how far God had a hand in it, and how far man is the Author of his own Destructi∣on, and lastly answered the Remonstrants arguments. He spake about an hour and a half. I would willingly have given your Ho∣nour an acount of his speech, but it was in the Evening, and the Auditory are allowed no candles, so that I could not use my Tables. And thus have they discust the first Article; though I could have wished that the question of Reprobation had been yet farther opened and stood upon, it being a point of large extent, and especially insisted on by the Remonstrant. As for Synodical Resolution in this first Article, that we must yet ex∣pect, till all the rest be examined as this hath been. There is no open Session till Friday next after dinner; and then is it their purpose to enter upon the Second Article, of Vniversal Grace: at which time Mr. Balcanqual, and Cruciger of Hassia are appointed to speak, according as the rest have done before, to this question, Whether the death of Christ were intended indifferent∣ly for all, or only for the Elect? Upon Wednesday the 20/••0 of Ianu∣ary, in the evening was there a private Session, wherein, be∣like for the making of better speed, they consulted whe∣ther they should go on to examine the rest of the Articles after the same manner they had done the first, or else bethink them of some more speedy order. After a long disceptation, even so long that Polyander put the Praeses in mind of the exceeding sharpness of the Weather, they at length concluded, that they would go on in the same course they had begun. And this as yet is all the Newes that is passant, wherefore ceasing farther to trouble your Honour, I humbly take my leave.

Dort this 21/31 of January. 1619.

Your Honours Chaplain and bounden in all Duty and Service, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, and my very good Lord,

UPon Friday the 15/••5 of Ianuary, there was a meeting of the Synod partly publick, partly private. As the Provincial Professors had done, so was D. Davenant, who is the first Pro∣fessor of the Forraigners, enjoyned by the Praeses to doe. The intent of his discourse at that time, was to overthrow certain distinctions framed by the Remonstrants for the maintenance of their positions, and evasion from the Contra-Remonstrants Argu∣ments. The Remonstrants usually distinguish upon Election, and divide it, into definitam & indefinitam, revocabilem & irrevoca∣bilem, peremptoriam & non peremptoriam, mutabilem & immu∣tabilem, and the like. For the refutation of which distinctions he first set down the definition of election brought by the Contra-Remo••strant, and at large confirmed it: secondly he brought the definition of election agreed on by the Re∣monstrant, and Argued against it: and thirdly he directly op∣pugned these forecited distinctions; all which he did learnedly and fully. When Dr. Davenant had spoken, the Auditory was commanded to depart. For having a purpose that others should speak at the same time, and fearing that some diversity of opinion might rise, and occasion some dissention, it was thought fit that things should be transacted as privately as might be. Many more of the Forreigners deliver'd themselves that night, and amongst the rest Martinius of Breme proposed again his former doubts un∣to the Synod, concerning the sence in which Christ is said to be fundamentum electionis, and requested to be resolved. But D. Gomarus at this time, was somewhat better advised, and thought it best to hold his peace. This day will there be a pri∣vate meeting wherein every company will give up their judge∣ments in writing upon the first Article: and to morrow I under∣stand they will go on unto the second, and proceed in it, ac∣cordingly as they have in the former. As for any Decisive Sen∣tence they will give none, till they have thus gone through all the five. In this I suppose they doe very discreetly. For since the Articles are mutually linked together, it is most con∣venient they should first go through them all, since a predeter∣mination in the former might bind them to some inconvenience

in the latter, there being no place left to look back, but stand they must to what they have once concluded. For avoiding of this it is thought best to determine of all at once. And this is all the news that here is currant: wherefore commending Your Honour to Gods good protection, I humbly take my leave.

Dort, this ••••/•••• of January. 1619.

Your Honours Chaplain and Bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, and my very good Lord,

UPon Munday the ••8/27 of January in the Evening, the Synod being met, Scultetus spake at large de Certitudine gratiae & salutis, that it was necessary for every man to be assured of his Sal∣vation. The manner of his discourse was oratorial, the same that he uses in his Sermons, not scholastical and according to the fashion of disputation and Schools. For this cause the questi∣on was neither deeply searcht into, nor strongly proved. And this is all was done that night.

I spake with Dr. Goad concerning Mr. Brent, who an∣swered me that he heard nothing at all of him, and that he will shortly write unto my Lord Archbishops Secretary to be informed farther concerning him. My Lord Bishop of late hath taken some pains with Martinius of Breme, to bring him from his opinion of V∣niversal Grace. By chance I came to see his Letter written to Martinius in which he expounded that place in the third of Iohn, So God loved the World, that he gave his only begotten Son, &c. which is the strongest ground upon which Martinius rests himself. Beyond this here is no news worth the relating, and therefore till farther occasion offer it self, I humbly take my leave.

Dort this 19/29 of January. 1618.

Yours Honours Chaplain and bounden in all Duty, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, my very good Lord,

UPon Thursday the 21/•••• of Ianuary in the Evening the Synod met privately, and as they had done in the first, so did they in the second Article. For the speedier Direction to find the places in the Remonstrants Books, where the particulars concerning U∣niversal Grace are discust, there was a kind of Index or Concor∣dance drawn of the several passages in their writings touching that subject. The next Day following, that is the first of Febru∣ary Stylo novo, Mr. Balcanqual, and Cruciger of Hassia made en∣trance upon the second Article. Mr. Balcanqual spake above an hour, and did very well acquit himself. When they had done the Praeses enjoyn'd Steinius of Hassia upon Tuesday next in the Evening (at what time will be the next open Session) to speak of the fourth Article (for of the third there is no question) and to sound whether the Grace of God converting us be resistible, as the Re∣monstrants would have it. This hast that is made in this suddain passing from one Article to another is much marvail'd at by our English Divines: for the Colledges yet have not all given up their opinion upon the first, and besides that the Remonstrants upon Wednesday last were willed to give in their Arguments upon the first Article. For notwithstanding they be excluded from perso∣nal appearance in the Synod, yet are they commanded to exhibit to the Synod whatsoever they shall please to command. Now some time will be required for the examining of those reasons, if they be of late invention, and such as yet have had nothing said to them. But what the reason of this haste is, will appear hereafter.

I lately writ unto Mr. Collwall to know what Order was to be taken for the discharge of my Lodging, whether your Honour were to answer it, or the publick purse. I would willingly be resolved of it, because I have a desire to return to the Hague; first, because the Synod proceeding as it doth, I do not see that it is operae pretium for me here to abide: and then because I have sundry private occasions that call upon me to return. For notwithstanding this haste, of which I but now spake, it will be long ere the Synod will come to determine any thing, and about that time, if your Honour shall be so pleased.

I shall be ready to come back to Dort. And so remembring my service unto your Honour, I humbly take my leave.

Dort, this first of Febr. 1619. Stylo novo.

Your Honors Chaplain, and bounden in all Duty and Service, Jo. Hales.

Right Honourable, and my very good Lord,

OUr Synod goes on like a watch, the main Wheels upon which the whole business turns are least in sight. For all things of moment are acted in private Sessions, what is done in publick is only for shew and entertainment. Upon Munday last the fourth of February, stylo novo, the Deputies met privately in the Evening, where the first thing that came upon the Stage was the old impertinent business concerning the Campenses, at what time Scotlerus a Remonstrant Minister, who had been formerly cited to appear before the Synod, having not appeared at time apppointed, pretended sickness, and for that cause he required the Synods patient forbearance. After this they entred into con∣sultation concerning certain Books and Writings to be conceiv'd partly for declaration of the Synods meaning in the Doctrine of the five Articles, partly in Apology for it. And first it was pro∣posed that there should be scriptum didacticum a plain and fami∣liar writing drawn, wherein the Doctrine of the five Articles ac∣cording to the intent and meaning of the Synod should be per∣spicuously exprest for the Capacity of the common sort, and that in Dutch and Latin. The Apological Writings were of two sorts, first Scriptum Elenchicum, wherein there were to be refuted such Errours as had been lately broached in prejudice of the re∣ceived Doctrine: secondly Scriptum Historicum, which was to consist of two parts, first, a narration of the Synods procedings with the Remonstrant, from the day of his first appearance till the time of his Ejection: for the refutation of many bitter inve∣ctives which lately had been written against the Synod in that behalf. Secondly, a Relation de causis turbarum, who were the Authors of the late Stirs in time of the separation; for answer of Episcopius his Orations, and other Writings of the Remonstrants,

in which the whole misorder in turn'd upon the Contra Remon∣strant. For the Scriptum didacticum the English were altogether against it: and so was Vosbergius. Their Reason was, because it seem'd incongruous that any writing concerning the Doctrine of the Articles should be set forth before the Synod had given Sentence. And indeed I must confess I see no great congruity in the proposal, whilst matters are in controversie: Judges walk suspensly, and are indifferent for either party, and whatsoever their intent be, yet they make no overture of it till time of sen∣tence come. All this business of citing, inquiring, examining must needs seem only as acted on a stage, if the Synod intempestively before hand bewray a resolution. But notwithstanding any rea∣son alleadgable against it, the thing is concluded, and Wallaeus, Vdemannus, and Triglandius are deputed to write a discourse to that purpose, with the inspection and supervision of my Lord Bi∣shop, Scultetus, Brittingerus, and Deodatus. For the Scriptum Hi∣storicum in the first part concerning the proceeding of the Synod with the Remonstrant, there is required the pains of Scultetus and Triglandius: in the second part de causis turbarum, Latius must be∣stow his labour, with the help of Festus Hommius, of the South-Hollanders and North-Hollanders, who best of any know the whole carriage of that matter. To the composing of the Scriptum E∣lenchicum there are deputed four of the Provincials Professors, Io. Polyander, Lubbertus, Gomarus and Thysius, to whom are ad∣joyned as helpers and Supervisors D. Davenant, Altingius and Mar∣tinius. But the business of this writing past not without some op∣position, Deodat. altogether misliked it, Polyander requested that his pains might be spared: Novi, saith he, quam sit mihi curta su∣pellex. But above all D. Gomarus was most offended at the Pro∣posal. Bella mihi video, bella parantur ait. And therefore quite refusing to consent to any Polemical writing, he advised that the Scriptum didacticum should abstain, à non necessariis & privatis, and contein only necessary points such as by common consent. That they should expect till the Remonstrant had set forth some adversary writing, and then would be a fitter time to think of somewhat in this kind. I blame not D. Gomarus, if he a little re∣coil. For being of the Supralapsarii, as they term them, of those who bring the Decree of Gods Election from before the fall, and seeing the Synod not willing to move that way, but to subside in

a lower sphere, he is to be pardon'd, if he deny his hand to that writing, which he supposes cannot be so warily indicted, but he must be forced with his own pen to let fall somewhat prejudicial to his own opinion. The Praeses answered that it was not his drift to force the Synod against their minds to set out such a Book; but only to take hold of the present occasion whilst the Forreign Di∣vines were here, and have such a Book in readiness for use here∣after, though it were not now set forth. He farther advised that those who were to undertake this, should have an eye to the incli∣nation of the Synod, and beware as much as might be, that they toucht not there where any man was sore. Whatsoever the pre∣tence is, the mentioning of these Books, before the determina∣tion of the Synod be formally set down, must needs be very un∣seasonable. It will make the world to think they came resolved what to do, which though perchance they did, yet it is no wisdom to confess it. After this did they advise concerning the Exceptions against the Confession and Catechism, and of such as should answer them. For the Catechism, the Palatine Divines undertook it: for the Confession some of the Provincials were ap∣pointed, whose names I have not learnt. The Praeses then by the advice of the Secular Delegates, advised the Synod to think of gathering a Synopsis and brief of all the Synodical Proceedings, to be sent to the King of England, and other Forreign Princes and States, who had sent Deputies to the Synod, that so they may understand what hath been done. For this were there appointed Altingius Steinius, the Assessors and Scribes; and for Supervisors were named D. Davenant, Praeses. This is the summe of that Session.

On Tuesday at Even they met again in private, where every one spake in order what they had furher to say concerning the second Article. Upon some occasion, I know not what, the Praeses mentioned Negotium Vorstianum, Bertianum, & Venatoria∣num, which I note because this is the first time that Vorstius his cause was named in the Synod. There hath not been any stay made amongst the Forreign Divines but only in this second Arti∣cle, out of which if they can well and clearly wrest themselves, their passage out of the rest will be more smooth. I lately told your Honour that Martinius of Breme made some doubts amongst the rest concerning Vniversal Grace. Not Martinius only, but

Dr. Ward in this point.

For the composing the doubts of both these, that they brake not out to any publick inconvenience, there hath been of late many private meetings in my Lord Bishops Lodging; where upon Wednesday Morning were drawn certain Theses in very suspense and wary terms: to what end, whether to give content to all parties, or to exhibite to the Synod, or what else I know not, by chance I had a view of them, but no opportunity to transcribe them.

On Wednesday the sixth of February, there was a publick Session in the Evening, at what time Steinius of Hassia spake to the fourth Article concerning the resistibility of Grace, in the same manner as others had done before him. He spake about an hour and a half, and when he had done, the Praeses gave warning of a publick Session to be upon Munday next in the Evening, and so dismist the Auditory, but not the Synod, who after this sate a good space in private consultation.

7 Febr. 1619.

Your Honours Chaplain and bounden in all Duty and Service, Jo. Hales.

FINIS.