State-worthies, or, The states-men and favourites of England since the reformation their prudence and policies, successes and miscarriages, advancements and falls, during the reigns of King Henry VIII, King Edward VI, Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth, King James, King Charles I.

THE STATES-MEN and FAVOURITES OF ENGLAND, IN The Reign of King Iames.

Observations on the Lives of the Clif∣fords, Earls of Cumberland.

THE name hath been for three Ages ancient and Noble, and in this last Age Warlike and serviceable: They had the govern∣ment of the N••rth in their own right for an hun∣dred years, and the Hereditary Sheriff-dom of Westmo••land in right of the Vip••nts their Relations for two.—Henry the first Earl of Cumberland, was raised by Henry the Eighth to that Honour, 1525, for his service at Teurnay and Berwick. Henry his son was by Queen Mary honoured with the Garte•• for his conduct against Wyat; and by Queen E••iz. graced with peculiar favours for his Industry, Inte∣grity and Vigilance in the North. As Natu••e, ••o

Nobility subsists and growes by the same thing that it is made of: Vertue that creates, supports it.

Observations on the Life of the Lord George Clifford.

GEorge Cliff••rd, Lord Clifford, Vescye, &c. Earl of Cumberland, was son to Henry second Earl of that Family, by his second Lady; a person wholly composed of true honour and valour, whereof he gave the world a large and clear demonstration.

It was resolved by the judicious in that Age, The way to humble the Spanish greatness, was not in pinching and pricking of him in the Low-Countries, which only emptied his veins of such blood as was quickly re-filled: But the way to make it a Cripple for ever, was by cutting off the Spanish sinews of War, his Monies from the West-Indies [the back-door robs the house.] In order whereunto, this Earl set forth a small Fleet on his own cost, and adventured his own person therein, being the best born Englishman that ever hazarded himself in that kinde. His Fleet may be said to be bound for no other Har∣bour but the Port of Honour, though touching at the Port of Profit in passage thereunto; I say, touching, whose design was not to enrich himself, but impoverish the Enemy.

He was as merciful as valiant, (the best metal bends best) and left impressions of both in all places where he came. Queen Eliz. Anno 1592.

honoured him with the dignity of the Garter. When King Iames came first out of Scotland to York, he attended him with such an equipage of Followers for number and habit, that he seemed rather a King, than Earl of Cumberland. Here happened a Contest between the Earl and the Lord President of the North, about carrying the Sword before the King in York; which Office, upon due search and enquiry was adjudged to the Earl, as belonging unto him: and whilest Clif∣ford's Tower is standing in York, that Family will never be therein forgotten. His Anagram was as really as literally true:

Georgius Cliffordius Cumberlandius. Davidis regno clarus cum vi fulgebis.

He died Anno 1605. leaving one Daughter and Heir, the Lady Anne, married to the Earl of Dorset.

This noble person taught the world, however o∣thers speak at pleasure, jussit quod splendida bilis: That the Art of making War hath not a positive form, and that it ought to be diversified according to the state of Oc∣currences. They that will commit nothing to Fortune, nor undertake any Enterprize whose event appeareth not infallible, escape many dan∣gers by their wary conduct, but fail of as many suc∣cesses by their unactive fearfulness. It's useless to be too wise, and spend that time in a grave gaze on business, that might serve the speedy dispatch of it. Neither was our Peer great onely in the atchieve∣ments of the Field to please higher spirits, but gaudy at Court to astonish and ravish the lowest; making noble expences when necessary, and ap∣pearing splendid on the important occasions, whose

principal quality resided in Magnificence. Yet was he not transported with these appearances, or to make them the greatest ornament of his conduct: the choicest expressions of his life, fixing neither his greatness upon a transitory Pageant, nor his glory upon a fading Pomp. No sullen opposer of the un∣avoidable occurrences of life; but a dexterous com∣plier with present exigencies, comparing those that swelled doggedly against Providence, or the pre∣sent state of affairs to King Canutus, who forbad the unobservant waves of the Sea to flow no higher; and they that repined at and spoke against it to Xerxes, who whipped the Hellespont.

Observations on the Life of Sir Tho-Smith.

SIr Thomas Smith was born at Abington in Bark-shire, bred in the University of Oxford: God and himself raised him to the Eminency he attained unto, unbefriended with any extraction. He may seem to have had an ingenious emulation of Sir Thomas Smith Senior, Secretary of State, whom he imitated in many good qualities, and had no doubt equalled••in preferment, if not pre∣vented by death. He attained onely to be Master of the Requests, and Secretary to King Iames for his Latine Letters: higher places expecting him, when a period was put at once to his life and to his hopes, Novemb. 28. 1609. The gene∣rous piety of the honourable Countess of Exeter having erected him one Monument at Fulham, & his own worth another in History.

His Father died, when he was yet so young, that he knew not what a Father meant: but his Mothers affection for her Husband dyed not with him; whereupon she multiplyed her cares on this Gen∣tleman and her other Children so abundantly, that a long while he little found the want of that dear name, her transcendent love so well supplying the place of both relations: For no sooner was he fit to learn, than she did by friends procure the best M••sters those Times afforded, to render his educa∣tion perfe••t in those exercises as well of the mind as of the body, wherein they that flattered him not, would say he was no ill Proficient: such maje∣sty, such modesty in his carriage, that men would admire how two such distant things could meet in one subject. His eye was quick and piercing, his shape and motion charming; the air and linea∣ments of his countenance lively arguments that his soul was not inferiour to his body,—but that the one promised no more pleasure to those that looked on it, than the other did service to those that em∣ployed it: His meen deserving preferment from the favour of a Soveraign, and his parts gaining it from his justice. Fortune did him not so much wrong in his mean Birth, as he did himself right by great merit, so worthy a Prince's service, and a Courts fa∣vour: He read and saw what others did, but not with others apprehensions; his judgment of things being not common, nor his observations low, flat, or vulgar, but such as became a breast now fur∣nishing it self for business and for government.

There was an ancient custom to celebrate the Anniversary of the King's Coronation with all the Shews of Magnificence and joy which the Art or

Affections of the People could invent; and because we are esteemed the Warlik'st Nation in the whole world, to continue that just regulation, we de∣clined all those effeminacies which are so predomi∣nant in other Courts, and absolutely addicted our selves to such Martial exercises as are nothing less pleasing and delightful than the other, and yet fit and prepare men more for the real use of Arms, and acquisition of glory. Here our Knights praise came to my Lord of Carlisle's notice, who first de∣signed him a Commander; but finding his Genius more courtly than Martial, more learned than a∣ctive recommended him to his Majesties softer services, where none more obliging to the People by his industry and interest at Court, none more serviceable to his Majesty by the good name he gained in the Countrey: So careful was he of pub∣lick content, that from five to nine his Chamber was open to all Comers; where you would find him with the one hand making himself ready, with the other receiving Letters; and in all this hurry of Business, giving the most orderly, clear, and sa∣tisfactory dispatches of any Statesman at that time. From nine to one he attended his Master, to whom he had as easie access as he gave to his People. Two things set him up; 1. A fair respect from his Ma∣ster upon all occasions, and as fair a treatment of the People: He had his distinct Classis of Affairs, and his distinct Officers for those Classis: The or∣der and method whereof incredibly advanced his dispatch, and eased his burden; which took up his day so, that there remained but some hours he stole from night and sleep, for his beloved and dear Studies; and King Iames said, he was the

hardest Student in White-Hall—and therefore he did not alwayes trouble his Master with business, but sometimes please him with discourse. If For∣tune had been as kind to him as Nature, greater Employments had been at once his honour and his business: But from all his services and performan∣ces, he derived no other advantage than the acting of them; and at his death he left no other wealth behind him, but that of a high reputation: never arriving at those enjoyments that enhance our Cares, not having time to withdraw himself from those cares that take away the relish of our enjoy∣ments.

Observations on the Life of Sir Fulke Grevil.

SIr Fulk Grevil, Son to Sir Fulke Grevil the elder, of Becham Court in Warwick-shire, descended from VVilloughby Lord Brook, and Ad∣miral to Hen. 7. was bred first in the Univer∣sity of Cambridge: He came to the Court, back'd with a full and fair Estate; and Queen Elizabeth loved such substantial Courtiers as could plentiful∣ly subsist of themselves: He was a good Scholar, loving much to employ (and sometimes to ad∣vance) learned men, to whom worthy Bishop Ov••∣ral chiefly owed his Preferment; and Mr. Cam••den (by his own confession) feasted largely of his Li∣berality. His studies were most in Poetry and Hi∣story, as his Works do witness: His stile concei∣ved by some to be swelling, is allowed lofty and

full by others. King Iames created him Baron Brook of Beauchamp-Court, as descended from the sole Daughter and Heir of Edward Willoughby, last Lord Brook, in the Reign of King Henry the 7th. His sad death, or murther rather, happened on this occasion: His discontented servant conceiving his deserts not soon, or well enough rewarded, wounded him mortally, and then (to save the Law the labour) killed himself; verify••ng the ob∣servation, that he may when he pleaseth be master of another mans life, who contemneth his own. He lyeth buried in Warwick Church under a Mo∣nument of black and white Marble, whereon he is stiled, Servant to Queen Elizabeth, Counsel∣lour to King Iames, and Friend to Sir Philip Sid∣ney.

Though a Favourite, he courts Ladies rather than Honour, and pursued his study rather than his ambition, being more contemplative than a∣ctive: Others ministred to Queen Elizabeths go∣vernment, this Gentleman to her Recreation and Pleasures: He came to Court when all men should, young, and stayed there until he was old; his for∣tune being as smooth as his spirit, and the Queens favour as lasting as his merit. He bred up States∣men, but was none. Sir William Pickering was like to have gained the Queens Bed by studying, Sir Philip Sidney had her Heart for writing, and Sir Fulke Grevil had her favour for both: one great argument for his worth, was his respect of the worth of others; desiring to be known to posterity under no other notions than of Shakespear's and Ben Iohnson's Master, Chancellor Egerton's Patron, Bishop Overal's Lord, and Sir Philip Sidney's

Friend. His soul had the peace of a great fortune, joyned to a greater mind: His worth commended him to Majesty; his affableness indeared him to the popularity: his mornings were devoted to his Books, his afternoons to his knowing Friends, his nights to his debonair Acquaintance: He was the Queens Counsellor for persons, as others were for matters and things: Sweet was his disposition, winning his converse, fluent his discourse, obli∣ging his looks, gestures, and expressions; publick his spirit, and large his soul: his Genius prompted him to prepare himself for Domestick services by Forreign employments, but the great Mistriss of her Subjects affections and duties forbad it, and his own prudence checked it. So dear was he to the Queen, that when his horses were shipped at Dover for the Netherlands, her Mandate by Sir Edward Dier stopped him: When he went over with Walsingham, he was remanded; and when with Leicester, he was checked: He was the exact image of action and quiet happily united in him, seldom well divided in any. He would have acted his great principles of Government, yet he could be confined only to write them.* 1.1 He could sit down with some Poetick and polite Characters of Ver∣tue, when he was debarred the real ••••ercises of it. He had kept Essex his head on, had not that unhappy man's Parasites made the Earl deaf to his ••••••nsels, and his Enemies removed him from his p••••••••nce, under a pretence of guarding the Seas a∣gainst his Enemies, while his Kinsman was betray∣ed by his Friends.

Observations on the Life of Sir Ro∣bert Cecil.

SIr Robert Cecil, since Earl of Salisbury, was the Heir of the Lord Burleigh's prudence, the inheritour of his favour, and by degrees a Successor to his places, though not to his Lands, for he was a younger Brother. He was first Secre∣tary of State, then Master of the Wards, and in the last of her Reign came to be Lord Treasurer, all which were the steps of his Fathers greatness; and of the honour he left to his house. For his person, he was not much beholding to Nature, though somewhat for his face, which was the best part of his outside: but for his inside, it may be said he was his Father's own son, and a pregnant Proficient in all discipline of State. He was a Courtier from his Cradle, yet at the age of twenty and upwards, he was much short of his after-proof; but exposed, and by change of climate he shewed what he was, and what he would be: He lived in those times, wherein the Queen had most need and use of men of weight; ••nd amongst able ones, this was a chief, as having a sufficiency from his instructions that begat him the Tutorship of the Times and Court, then the Academy of Art and Cunning, •• English prudence and Counsel was at the high•••••• as most exercised with Forreign dangers, and Do∣mestick practices. Vast was his apprehension, be∣cause so large his prospect; Sir Francis Walsingham having opened the Conclave of Rome, and his Fa∣ther

the Cabals of Spain; insomuch that he knew each design in both places, every Port, every Ship with the Burthens, whither bound, what impe∣diments, for diversion of Enterprizes, Counsels, & Resolutions, as appears by his private dispatches (as his manner was) with those of the Councel, one whereof to my Lord Mountjoy, since Earl of Devonshire, with whom he seasonably closed, runs thus—

—I must in private put you out of doubt (for of fear I know you cannot be other∣wise sensible than in a way of honour) that the Spaniard will not come to you this year:* 1.2 for I have it from my own what preparations are in all Parts, and what he can do: For be confident he beareth up a reputation by seeming to embrace more than he can gripe: but the next year be assured he will cast over unto you some Forlorn-Hopes; which how they may be re-inforced beyond his present ability, and his first intention, I cannot as yet make any certain judgment: but I believe out of my Intelligence, that you may ex∣pect their Landing at Munster; and the more to distract you in several places, as at Kingsale, Beer-haven and Baltimore, where you may be sure (coming from Sea) they will first fortifie and learn the strength of the Rebels before they dare take the Field.

This States man's character is engraven upon his

honour, and his portraicture drawn in his Patent for Earl of Salisbury; which to many formal words hath added these effectual expressions— As also for his faithfulness, circumspection, stoutness, wisdom, dexterity, providence and care not onely in the great and weighty Affairs of Counsel, but generally also in all other Expeditions of the Realm.

And indeed not a man upon the Helm of this Common-wealth understood all points of the Com∣pass better than himself, who in a stayed and calm setledness looked on the private designs that were promoted upon his Mistriss declining, and private∣ly overthrowed them and their Masters, while in an uninterrupted course of integrity towards his Mistress, and faithfulness to his Countrey, he kept clear and succession, equally careful not to enjea∣lous his present Mistress, and not to obstruct his future Master, with whom he kept an honest corre∣spondence, although there goeth this story of him, that a Post from Scotland meeting her Majesty upon Greenwich-heath, Sir Robert Cecil in all hast would needs cut open the Packet, and pretending it stunk, had time to perfume it [her Majesty being very cu∣rious in her smelling] and convey away his own Letters: be this so or so, it's certain, that when assi∣stant to the Earl of Derby in his French Embassie, he promoted the young King of Scots interest against his Mothers: when Sir Francis Walsingham's Col∣league, he defeated her Counsels against him; and when principal Secretary, he sounded, crossed, and undid the little plot that was shrowded under the great name of Essex, turning and winding, rai∣sing and ruining the Authors of it at his own plea∣sure. No sooner was the Queen dead, than his

Messenger was with the King at Edenburgh, and he himself with his Favourite [Sir George Humes] at York; with whose assistance, and honest Sir Ro∣ger Aston's mediation, King Iames makes him his bosome-friend, his house [Theobalds] his residence, and his account of the English Laws, Government, and temper his rule: Finding him but Knight and Secretary, he created him Baron of Essenden, Vis∣count Cranbourn, Knight of the Garter, and Earl of Salisbury: He promoted him Master of the Wards and Lord Treasurer; in all which capacities how vigilant he was against the Papists, and their Plots, their Libels (which he answered in English and a 1.3 Latine very elegantly and wisely) demon∣strate — how careful of the publique Treasure, this Narrative shews.

King Iames had bestowed upon Sir Robert Carr twenty thousand pound: my Lord apprehending the sum as more correspondent with his Master's goodness, than his greatness, with the royalty of his heart, than the poverty of his Exchequer; and observing his Majesty more careful of what money passed his own hands, than what passed his ser∣vants, contrives that the good King should go through the place where this great sum lay in silver to a treatment; where demanding whose money it was, and being answered, that it was his own before he parted with it, He understanding the design, pro∣tested he was cheated, and intended not above five hundred pounds; and the Favourite was glad to make use of the Lord Treasurers mediation for the moyety of that great sum. How industrious in the improvement of his Masters Revenue, these particulars conel ••de, viz.

1. A survey of the Crown-lands, known before by report rather than by measure; and let by chance, rather than knowledge. 2. A Revival of the Custody-lands Revenue by Commissioners of As∣serts. 3. A tarrier of Crown-wood-lands, their growth and value; where he numbered, marked, & valued all the Timber hitherto unknown. 4. The Commissioners he procured to look into Copy-hold-Lands, Wastes, and Commons. 5. The Rules to forfeited Estates and extended Lands. 6. The improvement of the Customs from 86000 to 135000 pounds per annum. 7. The bargain a∣bout the London River-water. 8. The encourage∣ment of all English Inventions, Manufactures, and Trade, whereby the Subjects might be employed, our Commodities enhanced, and our Treasure kept among our selves. 9. The Plantations, and Transplantations in Ireland. And 10. The Refor∣mation of the Court of Wards in the poynt of dis∣posing of Orphans.

These services advanced him to great honour, and to as great envy, the popular effects whereof no man could have escaped but one whose soul was immoveable, temper, calm, thoughts deep, ap∣prehensions large, and resolution great to engage vulgar Errors rather by the greatness of his Actions, than the eminence of his Interest—And satisfie the world leisurely by his Vertues, and not awe it rashly by his power; which got him even in that time St. Gregories Encomium, That he was the first bad, and the last good Treasurer since Queen Eliza∣beth's Reign.

I shall never forget his, or his Fathers discourse with Claud Grollart primier President of Roan,

about the troubles in France, wherein he advis••d him to stick fast to the King, though he saw difficul∣ties: For it was his Maxime, That Kings are like the Sun, and Vsurpers like falling-Stars; For the Sun, though it be ••ffuscated and eclipsed with Mists and clouds, at length they are dispersed; where the others are but the figures of Stars in the eyes of view, and prove no more but Exhalations, which suddainly dissolve, and fall to the earth, where they are consu∣med: A discourse which events there and elsewhere made an Oracle.

Observations on the Life of the Lord Howard of Effingham, Earl of Nottingham.

THe Lord Howard of Effingham, a man of most approved fidelity and invincible courage, and Governour of Callice; though a Courtier betimes; yet seemed not to be in favour before the Queen made him high Admiral of England. For his extract, it may suffice that he was the son of a Howard, and of a Duke of Norfolk. As for his person, he was as goodly a Gentleman as the times could afford; he was one whom the Queen desired to honour, who at his return from Cadiz accounts, was created Earl of N••ttingham. He was a good, honest, and a brave man, and a faith∣ful servant to his Mistress, and such a one as the Queen out of her own Princely judgement knew to be a fit Instrument for the Admiral's service, having a great opinion of his fidelity and ••onduct:

And though his death was not honoured with much wealth, yet was it grac'd with the reputation of ho∣nesty. Hs was ra••sed to check Essex his ambition, and Leicester••s undermining, being equally popular, and honest, yet having those at his heels that could lay a snare, and bring in the prize. Nature was a better friend to him than Fortune, and his Inte∣grity than both; which commended him to a Mi∣stress that understood Men as well as Books, and knew it was no less the interest of Princes to take counsel concerning Persons, than concerning mat∣ters: He had that goodness, without which man is a busie, mischievous, and wretched thing; yet that wisdom whereby he was not so good (as the Italian saith) as to be good for nothing: He was gentle, but not easie; mild, but not soft: obliging not the fancies of men, but their Interest: None more civil to Strangers (his heart being not a nar∣row Island (as my Lord Bacon observes) but a large Continent:) None more tender of Inferiours, none more humble to Superiours; none more compassio∣nate to the afflicted; none more loving to, or more beloved of all. The Queen said, she trusted her Kingdom to his faithfulness in 88. and her self to his conduct. His alliance to the Queen brought him to Court, but his honesty kept him there (when jealousie had overcast that great house of the Howards:) ancient Nobility was a good recom∣mendation to the Q••. first Favours; but modesty, submission, and integrity were the Vertues that continued them: He had onely so much Ambition as rendred him active and serviceable, and not bu∣sie or dangerous: He knew a Nobleman cannot be safely aspiring, nor smooth man securely popular,

and a man of his Retinue must not be busie. He li∣ved in an age when all honour was perillous that was not designed for service; when the State chose Ministers that were more sensible of duty than of rising; that loved business rather upon consci∣ence than upon bravery, and when the Prince discerned a busie nature from a willing mind: as the stone had need be rich that is set without foyl, so this noble person, that was only real, had need of great parts of vertue. So valiant he was, that he made the Spanish Fleet veil to him, though it carried the Empress of Germany; so active, that he tugged at the Cabl•• himself in 88. and did much by his own pains, and more by his example: so skilful, that he contrived the Fire-ships that frighted and scattered the Spanish Navy. Two emi∣nent services he did the Protestant Religion when but twenty one years of age: The first is, that he was so observant a witness of Arch-Bishop Parker's consecration, that with his bare word the tale of the Nags head came to nothing. 2. That he was so close an Agent in the Court of France, that no Design was brewed in Scotland, none seconded in France, but he with the Emperour and the King of Spain's Embassadors assistance [whom he had en∣gaged with the hope of a Match between the King of the Romans and his Mistriss] discovered and defeated with that success, that the King of France courted his Mistriss to a Peace, and himself to Fa∣vour. None more careful in matter of Business; none more splendid in business of Complement— condoling King Francis his death with a Majesty no less becoming the Personage he represented, than the Prince he addressed himself to. 1. His provi∣dence

in contriving the English Ships nimble, and such as could tack about at pleasure. 2. His pru∣dence in not hazarding his weak Navy against the Spanish Army and Armado in an Engagement wherein a victory would be but a little glory, and a defeat a ruine. 3. His activity in alarming the Spanish Navy day and night. 4. His wisdome in honouring the most serviceable under him, as Hawkins, Forbisher, Sheffield, &c. 5. His popu∣larity that drew so many Voluntiers to his service, as the Earls of Oxford, Northumberland, Cumber∣land, the Cecils, &c. 6. His wariness in divi∣ding his fourteen Sail into four squadrons round a∣bout the Spanish Navy. 7. His excelle••t contri∣vance of eight Ships filled with pitch, wild-fire, rosin, &c. which sent down the wind in the dead of night so much to the terrour of the Spaniards, that fearing the Fire, together with some more deadly Engines, they raised a pitiful cry, weighed Anchor, cut their Cables, and in a terrible pannick Fear, with great hast and confusion put to Sea. 8. His admirable dexterity in disposing of the Na∣vy, so as they met the Spanish Navy upon their dispersion with su••h success, that the invincible Fleet never saw again its own formidableness, ever since grown the most contemptible thing that ever sailed upon these Seas. 9. His seasonable order to the Dutch Fleet to watch the Duke of Parma in the Ports of Dunkirk and Newport. 10. His exact intelligence, whereby he understood what a Con∣troversie there was in the Spanish Navy about this point, whether they should stick to their Com∣mission in staying for Parma, which was their duty, or follow the emergent advantages, which had been

their discretion,—and dealt with them according∣ly. These grand particulars of this Noble-man's service were so eminent and signal, that Queen E∣lizabeth, who was over-lavish neither of her ho∣nour nor her preferments, would say commonly of him and those brave Heroes under him, That they were born to save their Countrey.

This noble person was of greater experience than knowledg, and more beholding to his years than to his Education, whence K. Iames took great pleasure in his discourse, that was not morose, obstinate, narrow, unactive or formal, like a Students ha∣rangues; but free, active, and ingenuous, like a States-man's Maximes — Whereof one was this; That never did Commander a noble Act that was Commission-bound; it being a question, whether the Venetians and Spaniards lost more at Sea and in the Netherlands before they discovered that Error, or gained more since. For whilest we address our selves to the State, occasions are lost, things take another countenance; and so many unexpected ac∣cidents happen, for which suddain provision must be made, that opportunities escape before we dare lay hold of them; and sometimes we perish for want of a Commission to save our selves.

Great content did he give by his presence in the French Court 1605. and greater in his carriage at the Prince Elector's a 1.4 marriage, 1612. A prudent, care did he discover in providing for posterity by the seasonable resignation of his Admiralty; a faith∣ful friend he shewed himself in confirming Sir Ro∣bert Mansel's place when he parted with his own; a great argument of his own worth and service, that he was so careful to reward others.

Observations on the Life of Sir Geo. Hume, Earl of Dunbar.

NO wonder he is so great a Favourite of King Iames in his riper years, who was so faithful a servant of his in his youth: trusted with his Royal secrets in Scotland, and therefore in his Royal bosome in England. The natural re∣servedness of all Scots-men, and the vast depth of this, are not more necessary to all Princes, then they were pleasing to King Iames, who had no se∣crecies that endangered his Privadoes, though ma∣ny that tried them, and particularly our States∣man, who had no hidden weakness to be over-rea∣ched, nor private Interest to be corrupted, but was a great Master of himself, owning a reach not to be comprehended, and thoughts not to be fa∣thomed, but by him whose heart was as the sand of the Sea.

Exact was his correspondence with Sir Robert Cecil while in Scotland, and intimate was their friendship in England; both extorting from each other those observations touching their respective Countreys, which they might both communi∣cate to His Majesty at their respective opportu∣nities.

His Enterprizes were well laid, but unsuccessful; rational, but unhappy: an argument that Designs are only in our power, and Events in a higher. There was not a man more noble and renowned, more com••ly a••d graceful, of more years and ex∣perience

[Versatus, Versutus] of a greater estate or revenue; more liberal and munificent, more acco∣stable and courteous, more resolved and reserved (all the qualities of a compleat Ambassador) than the Earl of Dunbar when sent to Germany; yet none more ineffectual, having gained no more by a tedious and chargeable Negotiation, than as the Earl of Nottingham with his gallant Retinue in Spain, that the Papists who were formerly per∣swaded by their Jesuites that we were Monsters, do now believe we are Men; so useless was soft Courtship in rough tumults, and so little heed was given to smooth complements in Arms an•• Uproars.

More happy was he in Scotland, where his pru∣dence as Lord Treasurer, and his Chaplain Doctor Abbots gravity as Preacher, reduced that Nation to so much sobriety as to admit a regular Religion and Government; for which service he had the Exchequer and the Wardrobe for himself, and the Arch-Bishoprick of Canterbury for the Doctor; when the King was in a great streight between the known merit of the incomparable Bishop Andrews, and the last request of dying Sir George Hume; a great instance of King Iames his abilities in what Machiavel calleth a Princes Master-piece, viz. the choice of Servants.

Observations on the Life of the Earl of Somerset.

HIs extraction from Scotland put him in the way, his Education in England set him in a capacity of Advancement. He was born sea∣sonably when his Father served him that should be a King of England; and brought up happily, when he might please him that was so—His beauty and comliness took his Majesty; his parts and prudence obliged him, who loved the Cabinet, but valued the Jewel: He was admitted Page of ho∣nour to King Iames when of Scotland, and his Fa∣vourite when of England: His Majesties first ob∣servation of him was at a solemn Tilting; where his delight in his person meeting with his pity of his mischance (I mean the breaking of his leg there) first took him to his tuition, and then to his Coun∣cil. All King Iames his Favourites were of his own education, and so imbued with his principles, and engaged to his interest. It was his Majesties policy to r••tain Scots States-men to balance the English; It was Somerset's prudence to entertain English Favou∣ries to endear the Scots; therefore Sir Tho. Overbury was as much of his Councel as he was of his Maje∣sties; too haughty a carriage was the miscarriage of other Minions, too good a nature was ••is: His great defect being that goodness and humanity that that knoweth no excess, but errour, which was rather a softness than a kindness: his heart was as large to others, as his Masters was to him, and

knew as little how to mistrust, as how to do any thing for which he should be mistrusted. This is the Lesson he was short in, That civilities should be common, but favours choice. The Whale is steered at Sea by a far smaller Fish, and this States-man at Court by far meaner men than himself. I my self (saith an ingenious man) have known many so far strangers to what was convenient, as they would scarce concede or deny any thing out of the presence of their Secretary: and this pro∣ceeded not seldom from a distrust there was no cause for; manifest in the Earl of Somerset, who though himself owner of a competent sufficien∣cy, was so enchanted with an opinion of Sir Thomas Overbury's parts, that he preferred him from a Servant to such an intimate friendship; as he could think nothing well educated for em∣ployment in his Office, that had not passed his correction, nor secret laid up but in his bosome; which swelled him (saith he) to such a monstrosi∣ty in pride, that I have heard (not being my self then near the English Court) how he offered to rant at his servants, and did once beat his Coach∣man for putting his commands under an inferi∣our expostulation to his Master; and through this intollerable arrogance in him, and remisness in the Earl, the sparks first flew, that kindled the ruine of them both: Friendship being no more able to maintain its interest against a feminine affection, than so great a pride was to confine it self within the tedder of moderation. The great∣est are not free, but led in triumph by the affections of others, through the mediation of their own. Sir Thomas Overbury would do what was most plausi∣ble,

and the Earl must perform what was less po∣pular. The King trusted Carr with his Dispatch∣es, and Carr trusts Overbury a month together without examination, who had full Commission to receive and answer any Letters or other Expres∣ses that came to his hands: Great opportunities offered themselves to Sir Robert Carr, and a great Soul he had to observe them (Fortune being no∣thing else but an attentive observation of the revo∣lution of Affairs, and the occasions resulting there∣from:) observant he was of his

Master, who rai∣sed him not to eclipse others, but like a brave Prince to ease himself. For Princes (to use my Lord Bacon's words) being at too great a distance from their Subjects, to ease themselves into their bosomes, raise some persons to be as it were participes curam, or their Companions:

but this Favourite understood as well the humour of the People, as he did the disposition of his Prince, obliging the one no less, than he pleased the o∣ther. Gay he was, as a Courtier, grave as a Coun∣sellour: to Scholars none more civil, to Soldiers none more liberal; of States-men none more re∣spective: He had his extraordinary great Vertues upon occasions to shew, and his ordinary little ones always to oblige; a compleatness in all turns, a••d upon all occasions was his nature. Familiar he was, yet not cheap; sociable upon regard, and not upon facility: His behaviour was his soul, free for any exercise or motion; finding many, and making more opportunities to endear himself: He broke his mind to small observations, yet he comprehended great matters: His carriage was so exact, as if affected; and yet so graceful; as if

natural. That which overthrew the first, bewitched the wisest, and tyred the most patient man, undid this noble person: yet so regular were his affections, that he did nothing publickly in the Countess of Essex, the Earl of Suffolk's Daughters case, but by due course of Law, the approbation of the gravest and wisest Divines and Counsellors, and the a 1.5 ap∣plause of England: his failings were the faults of his years, rather than of his person, of his sodain for∣tune, than of his constant temper; his counsels were safe and moderate; his publick actions honest and plain; his first years of favour industrious and a∣ctive; his mind noble and liberal. His soul capa∣cious and inquisitive; his temper yielding and mo∣dest. In a word, Sir Robert Carr deserved to be a Favourite, if he had not been one.—He fell because he medled too little with the Secretaries place while in it, and too much when out of it; giving Overbury too much scop•• on the one hand to mate him, and Sir Ralph Winwood too much offence to undermine him: who finding that new Earls occasi∣ons growing with his advancements (I say his oc∣casions, because I think his miscarriages were not his nature, but his necessity) apt to encroach upon his and other Court-Offices, gave ear to that In∣telligence from Flushing that might ruine him, and set free himself.

The first Intimation of his guilt was his earnest∣ness for a general Pardon; and the first argument of it was my Lord Chancellor's scruples in sealing it: whence I date his first declining, attended with as much pity as his first advancement was with envy. We and the Troglodites curse not the Sun-rising more heartily, than we worship it when it sets.

The Gentleman was as to his stature rather well compacted than tall; as to his features and favour, comely, rather than beautiful. — The hair of his head was flaxen, and that of his face yellow: His nature was gentle, his disposition affable, ••••s af∣fections publick, until a particular person and in∣terest engrossed them: and the good Gentleman being sensible of failers that might ruine him, was wholly intent upon a treasure that might preserve him:—His defect was, that he understood only his own age; and that the experience of man's life cannot furnish examples and presidents for the events of one mans life.

Observations on the Life of Arch-Bishop Abbot.

GEorge Abbot being one of that happy Ternion of Brothers, whereof two were eminent Pre∣lates, the third Lord Mayor of London, was bred in Oxford, wherein he became Mr. of University-Colledge; a pious man, and most excellent Prea∣cher, as his Lectures on Ionah do declare. He did first creep, then run, then flye into Preferment, or rather Preferment did flye upon him without his expectation. He was never incumbent on any Living with cure of Souls, but was mounted from a Lecturer to a Dignitary; so that he knew the Stipend and Benevolence of the one, and the Dividend of the other, but was utterly unac∣quainted with the taking of Tithes, with the ma∣ny troubles attending it, together with the

causeless molestations which Parsons presented meet with in their respective Parishes. And be∣cause it is hard for one to have a Fellow-suffering of that, whereof he never had a suffering; this (say some) was the cause that he was so harsh to Ministers when brought before him.

Being Chaplain to the Earl of Dunbar, then omni-prevalent with King Iames, he was un∣expectedly preferred Arch-Bishop of Canterbury, being of a more Fatherly presence than those, who might almost have been his Fathers for age in the Church of England. There are two things much charged upon his memory;

• First, That in his house he respected his Secre∣tary above his Chaplains; and out of it, alwayes ho∣noured Cloaks above Cassocks, Lay above Clergy∣men.
• Secondly, That he connived at the spreading of Nonconformity, insomuch that a Modern Author said,

  Had Bishop Laud succeeded Bancroft, and the project of Conformity been followed without inter∣ruption, there is little question to be made, but that our Jerusalem (by this time) might have been a City at unity within it self.

This Arch-Bishop was much humbled with a casual Homicide of a Keeper of the Lord Zouch's in Bramel-Park, though soon after he was so∣lemnly quitted from any irregularity thereby. In the Reign of King Charles he was sequester'd from his Jurisdictions, say some, on the old ac∣count of that Homicide, though others say, for refusing to License a Sermon of Dr. Sirpthorps. Yet there is not an Express of either in the In∣strument

of Sequestration, the Commission only saying in the general, That the Arch-bishop could not at that present in his own Person attend those Services which were otherwise proper for his Cognizance and Jurisdiction.

To say the truth, he was a man of good intenti∣ons, and knew much, but failed in what those or∣dinarily do that are devoted to our modern sin∣gularities, being extreamly obstinate in his opini∣ons, which the King was more willing to under∣stand than follow, because most times he looked upon things according to the rigour of Ecclesiastick maximes, and was either too curious and irreso∣lute by variety of reading, or too peremptory and positive from the strictness of his Rules; or too zealous by reason of the seriousness of his Study; or wide from the matter, by reason of his inexperi∣ence, and aptness to require in the times he lived, the regularity of the times he read of heeding not the force of Circumstances, the errors of Comparison, or the cautions of Application. I like his Apology for his severity to the Clergy (that he was austere to prevent others being cruel) as well as his zeal for the Protestant Religion; onely his Principles betrayed his profession, which he rendered too obnoxious, while he supported it by those novel grounds which our Adversaries could make us confess were Heterodox, and by those streight-laced foundations which we saw our selves too narrow. As for instance, King Iames his vast capacity took him up once for making the Scripture the onely rule of Civil Affairs; owning the piety, but observing to his face the impru∣dence of that assertion. Imprudence, I say, as for

many reasons, so for this, because to assert a truth upon a weak principle, is to tempt the world to doubt of the strength of the first, when they see the weakness of the other. Whether he went off in discontent, and said, He would not attend at the Councel-Table, because he should not wait at the Altar: Whether he had such malignant followers as called themselves Nicodemites, or Night-Disciples: Whether he turned noon-day into mid-night; and mid-night into noon-day, having a candle always burning in his Chamber; or if so, for what reason, I would not have one of my years determine, but rather refer the present age to his Contemporaries pen, which describes him thus;

A very learned man he was; his Erudition all of the old stamp, fitly principled in the Doctrine of S. Augustine, pious, grave, and exemplary in his Con∣versation: But some think him a better man than Arch-Bishop, and that he was better qualified with merit for the Dignity, than with a spirit answering the Function; in the exercise whereof he was con∣ceived too facile and yielding: his extraordinary remisness in not exacting strict Conformity to the prescribed Orders of the Church in point of Cere∣mony, seemed to resolve those legal Determinati∣ons to their first Principle of Indifference, and led in such an habit of Inconformity, as the future re∣duction of those tender-conscienced men to long discontinued obedience, was interpreted an inno∣vation; as if he thought it might fall out in Poli∣ticks as it doth sometimes in Physick, bina venena juvant, that the two contrary poysons of Super∣stition and Innovation might prove a Cordial to the Church—

Observations on the Life of Sir George Calvert.

SIr George Calvert was bred first in Trinity-Col∣ledge in Oxford, and then beyond the Seas. His Abilities commended him first to be Se∣cretory to Robert Cecil Earl of Salisbury, Lord Treasurer of England. Afterwards he was made Clerk of the Council, and at last principal Secre∣tary of State to King Iames, succeeding Sir T••o. Lake in that Office, Anno 1619.

* 1.6Conceiving the Duke of Buckingham highly in∣strumental in his preferment, he presented him with a Jewel of great value; which the Duke re∣turned him again, not owning any Activity in his Advancement, whom King Iames, ex mero motu, reflecting on his Abilities, designed for the Place. This Place he discharged five years, until he wil∣lingly resigned the same, 1624. on this occasion; He freely confessed himself to the King, that he was then become a Roman Catholick, so that he must either be wanting to his Trust, or violate his con∣science in discharging his Office. This his Ingenui∣ty so highly affected King Iames, that he continued him Privy-Councellor all his Reign, and soon af∣ter created him Lord Baltemore of Baltemore in Ireland.

During his being Secretary, he had a Patent to him and his Heirs to be Absolutus Dominus & Pro∣prietarius, with the Royalties of a Count Palatine of the Province of Avalon in the New-found land,

a place so named by him in imitation of old Ava∣lon in Somersetshire, wherein Glassenbury stands, the first-fruits of Christianity in Britain, as the other was in that part of America. Here he built a fair house in Ferry-land, and spent twenty five thou∣sand pounds in advancing the Plantation thereof.

Indeed his publick spirit consulted not his pri∣vate profit, but the enlargement of Christianity, and the Kings Dominions, in that his ancient, primitive, and heroick work of planting the world. After the death of King Iames he went twice in person to New-found land. Here when Mounsieur de l' Arade with three men of War sent from the King of France, had reduced our English Fishermen to great extreamity; this Lord with two Ships man∣ned at his own charge, chased away the French∣men, relieved the English, and took sixty of the French Prisoners. He removed afterwards to Vir∣ginia to view those parts, and thence cam•• into England, and obtained of King Charles the first (who had as great an esteem of, and affection for him, as King Iames) a Patent to him and his Heirs for Mary-Land on the North of Virginia, with the same Title and Royalties conferred on him, as in Avalon aforesaid, now a hopeful Plantation, peo∣pled with eight thousand English Souls; which in process of time may prove more advantageous to our Nation.

Judg Popham and Sir George Calvert agreed not more unanimously in the publick design of Plant∣ing, than they differed in the private way of it: the first was for extirpating Heathens, the second for converting them.—He sent away the lewdest, this the soberest people: the one was for present profit,

the other for a reasonable expectation (it being in the case of planting Countreys, as in that of plant∣ing Woods; you must account to lose almost twenty years profit, and expect your recompence in the end; it being necessary the Province should first find her self, and then enrich you.) The Judge was for many Governors, the Secretary for few, and those not concerned Merchants, but uncon∣cerned Gentlemen: The one granted Liberties without any restraint, the other with great caution: The first set up a common Stock, out of which the Island should be provided for by proportions; the second left every one to provide for himself.

Two things are eminent in this man:

• 1. That though he was a Catholick, yet kept he himself sincere and disingaged from all Interests; and though a man of great judgment, yet not ob∣stinate in his sentiments, but taking as great plea∣sure in hearing others opinions, as in delivering his own, which he heard moderated and censured with more patience, than applauded.
• 2. That he carried a digested and exact account of Affairs to his Master every night, and took to himself the pains to examine the Letters which re∣lated to any Interest that might be any ways consi∣derable. He was the onely States-man, that being engaged to a decryed party, yet managed his busi∣ness with that huge respect for all sides, that all who knew him, applauded him; and none that had any thing to do with him, complained of him.

Observations on the Life of Sir Ar∣thur Chichester.

SIr Arthur Chichester spent his youth, first in the University, then in the French and I∣rish Wars, where by his valour he was effectually assistant•• First, to plough and break up that bar∣barous Nation by Conquest, and then to sow it with seeds of civility, when by King Iames made Lord Deputy of Ireland.

Indeed good Laws and Provisions had been made by his Predecessors to that purpose: but alas, they were like good Lessons set for a Lute out of tune, useless, until the Instrument was fitted for them. Wherefore in order to the civilizing of the Irishry, in the first year of his government, he established two new Circuits for Justices of Assize, the one in Connaught, the other in M••nster. And where∣as the Circuits in former times only encompassed the English Pale (as the Cynosura doth the Pol••) hence forwards like good Plane••s in their several Spheres, they carried the influence of Justice round about the Kingdom. Yea, in short time Ireland was so cleared of Thieves and capital Offenders, that so many Malefactors have not been found in the 32 Shires of Ireland, as in six English Shires in the Western Circuits. He reduced the Mountains and Glinnes on the So••th of Dublin (formerly thornes in the side of the English pale) into the County of Wicklow; and in conformity to the Eng∣lish 〈◊〉〈◊〉om, many Irish began to cut their Mantles

into Cloaks. So observant was his eye over the a∣ctions of suspected persons, that Tyrone, was heard to complain, That he could not drink a full carouse of Sack, but the S••ate within few hours was advertised thereof.

After he had been continued many years in his Deputyship, and deservedly made a Lord, King I••mes recalled him home, and (loath to leave his Abilities unemployed) sent him Embassador to the Emperour and other German Princes. Being ••e••ieged in the City of Mainchine (a place much indebted to his prudence for seasonable victualling it) by Count Tilley, he sent him word, that it was against the Law of Nations to besiege an Embassa∣dor: Tilley returned that he took no notice that he was an Embas••ad••t. The Lord Chichester replyed to the Messenger, Had my Master sent me with as many hundred men, as he hath sent me on fruitless M••ss••ges, your General should have known, that I had ••••en •• So••dier, ••as well as an Embassador. King I••mes•• at his return entertained him with great commendations, for so well discha••ging his Trust; and he died in as great honour as any Eng∣lish-man of our Age. Thus far the Historians. Whence I observe him stout in his nature above a∣ny disorder upon Emergencies, a 1.7 resolved in his temper above any impressions from other Princes, and high in his Proposal beyond the expectation of his own. Alv••rgonzoto el Diablo le traxo al Palacio, The Devil brought the Bashful to Court, where none succeeds but he who can ask enough to be granted, and enough to be a 1.8 abated. There is a memorable observation of Philip the second, King of Spain, called El prudente; That when 〈◊〉〈◊〉 had

designed one for Embassador, the man came faintly and coldly to him to propose some things for the accommodation of his Embassie; and he said, How can I expect that this man can promote and effectuate my business, when he is so faint and fear∣ful in the solicitation of his own?

Yet was not my Lord Chichester more resolute in Germany, than wary in Ireland, where his opinion was, that time must open and facilitate things for Reformation of Religion, by the Protestant Planta∣tions; by the care of good Bishops and Divines, the amplification of the Colledge, the education of Wards, an insensible seisure of Popish liberties. &c. and that the Council there was so numerous (fifty or sixty at least) that the authority of it was debated, and its business divulged. In a word, this brave Gentleman had an equal mind, that kept up it self between the discourses of Reason, and the examples of Histories, in the enjoyment of a good fortune, and a conflict with a bad.

Observations on the Life of the Lord Chancellor Egerton.

THe Lord Chancellour Egerton, extracted from the ancient Family of the Egerton's of Kidley in Cheshire, was bred in the study of the Mu∣nicipal Laws of our Land, wherein he attained to such eminency, that Queen Elizabeth made him her Solicitor, then Master of the Rolls, and at last Keeper of the Great Seal, May 6. in the 38 year of her Reign, 1596.

Olaus Magnu•• reporteth, that the Emperour of Moscovia at the Audience of Ambassadors, sende••h for the gravest and seemliest men in Mosco and the Vicinage, whom he apparelleth in rich Vests; and placing them in his presence, pretendeth to For∣••aigners, that these are of his Privy-Council; who cannot but be much affected with so many reverent Aspects. But surely all Christendome afforded not a pe••son which carried more gravity in his counte∣nance and behaviour than Sir Thomas Egerton, in∣somuch that many have gone to the Chancery on purpose only to see his venerable Garb (happy they who had no other business) and were highly pleased at so acceptable a spectacle. Yet was his outward Case nothing in comparison of his inward Abilities, quick Wit, solid Judgement, ready Utterance. I confess Master Cambden saith, he entred his Office Magna expectatione & integritatis opinione, with a great expectation and opinion of Integrity: But no doubt, had he revised his work in a second Edition, he would have afforded him a full-faced commendation, when this Lord had turned his expectation to performance. In the first of King Iames, of Lord Keeper he was made Lord Chancellor, which is also another name for the same Office: and on Thursday the seventh of No∣vember, 1616. of Lord Elismer he was created Viscount Brackley. It is given to Courts whose Jurisdictions do border, to fall out about their bounds; and the contest betwixt them is the hot∣ter, the higher the spirits and parts of the respective Judges. Great was the contention for many years together betwixt this Lord of Equity, and Sir Edward C••••ke the Oracle of Justice at Westminster-Hall:

I know not which of them got the better; sure I am such another Contest would (if this did not) have undone the Conqueror.

He was attended on with servants of most able parts, and was the sole Chancellor since the Re∣formation, who had a Chaplain, which (though not immediately) succeeded him in his place. H•• gave over his Office which ••he held full twenty years, some few days before his death; and by his own appointment, his body was brought down and buried at Duddleston in Cheshire, leaving a fair estate to his Son, who was afterwards created Earl of Bridgewater, as he did to his excellent Son now living.

When he saw King Iames his munificence to some Courtiers, with the grave Fidelity of a States∣man, he sticked not often to tell him, That as he held it necessary for his Majesty amply to rem••ne∣rate all those his Countrey-men, so he desired him carefully to preserve his Crown lands, for his own support, seeing he or his Successors might meet with Parliaments which would not supply his occa∣sions, but on such conditions as would not be very acceptable unto him. It was an ordinary speech in his mouth to say, Frost and Fraud both end in Foul.

His plain, but honest advice to my Lord of Essex was,

• 1. Not to trust himself, because they that stand by, see more than they that play the game.
• 2. To yield to Time and Fortune, and not do that for his Enemies, which they could never do for themselves.
• 3. To have a careful eye upon those actions on

• which he knew there were many envious ones. And for himself, his supplication to King Iames was, That since his conceit and sense was grown so heavy, his Memory decay'd, his Judgement weak, his Hearing imperfect, and his Voice faltering, he might desinere potiùs quam deficere, and retire from his Business to his Meditation, as he did; while li∣ving, imparting many mysteries of the Chancery; and when dying, bequeathing as many choice Books and Directions to his then Chaplain, and his after-Successor Doctor Williams.—Secretary Win∣wood having received the Seal, and left this graci∣ous Message with this good man, that his Majesty would be his Under-keeper, and not dispose of it while he lived to bear the name of Chancellor: nor did any receive the Seal out of the Kings sight, while he lived to bear the name of Chancellor.

A company of Citizens got a Cause passed by keeping a Witness away in this manner; one of them gets him to the Tavern, and there leaves him with a quart of Sack before him, and the glass at his mouth, and swears in open Court, that he left him in a condition, wherein if he continueth but two hours, he is a dead man. The other Party find out the cheat, and have their remedy in Chancery: Sir Edward Cook brings the matter to the Star-Cham∣ber, and threatneth the Chancellor with a P••emu••nire. The business is debated, and sentence passed for my Lord Chancellor; with the comfort where∣of, and the Kings and Princes Letter to him upon his Death-bed, he went to his Grave.

Observations on the Life of the Lord Chief-Iustice Popham.

SIr Iohn Popham in his youthful days was a stout and skilful man at Sword and Buckler as any in that Age, and wild enough in his Re∣creations. But oh! saith my Author, if Quick∣silver could be really fixed, to what a treasure would it amount? Such is wild youth seriously reduced to gravity, as by this young•• man did ap∣pear, who applyed himself to a more profitable Fencing, the study of the Laws; therein attaining to such eminency, that he became the Queen•• Attorney, afterwards Lord Chief-Justice of E••g∣land. Being sent Anno 1600. by the Queen with some others to the Earl of Essex, to know the cause of the confluence of so many Military men unto his house, the Soldiers therein detained him for a time, which some made tantamount to an Im∣prisonment. This his violent detention Sir I••hn deposed upon his Oath at the Earl's Tryal: which I note the rather, for the rarity thereof, that a Lord Chief-Justice should be produced as Witness in open Court.

In the beginning of the Reign of King Iame••, his justice was exemplary on Thieves and Robbers. The Land then swarmed with people which had been Soldiers, who had never gotten (or e••se quite forgotten) any other Vocation. Hard it was for Peace to feed all the idle mouths which a former War did breed, being too proud to beg, too lazy

to labour: Those infested the High-wayes with their Fellonies; some presuming on their multi∣tudes, as the Robber on the Northern Rode, whose knot otherwise not to be untied) Sir Iohn cut a∣sunder with the Sword of Justice. He possessed King Iames, how the frequent granting of Pardons was prejudicial to Justice, rendring the Judges to the contempt of insolent Malefactors; which made his Majesty more sparing afterwards in that kind. In a word, the deserved death of some scores, pre∣served the lives and livelihoods of some thousands: Travellers owing their safety to this Judges severi∣ty, many years after his death. Neither did he one∣ly punish Malefactors, but provide for them; for observing that so many suffered and died for none other reason but because they could not live in England, now grown too populous for it's self, and breeding more Inhabitants than it could keep, he first set up the discovery of New-England, to maintain and employ those that cou'd not live honestly in the old; being of opinion, that banishment thither would be as well a more lawful, as a more effectual remedy against those extravagancies; the Authors whereof judge it more eligible to hang, than to work; to end their dayes in a moment, than to con∣tinue them in pains:— onely a great Judgment observes, it is a shameful and an unblessed thing, to take the scum of people and wicked condemned men to be the people with whom to plant: And not onely so, but it spoyleth the Plantation, for they will ever live like Rogues, and not fall to work, and do mischief, and spend Victuals, and be quickly weary, and then certifie over to the Coun∣trey, to the disgrace of the Common-wealth.

Observations on the Life of Sir Ro∣bert Dudley.

SIr Robert Dudley, son to Robert Dudley Earl of Leicester, by Douglas Shefield (whether his Mistriss or his Wife, God knows) was born at Shene in Surrey, and bred by his Mother (out of his Fathers reach) at Offington in Sussex, where he became a most compleat Gentleman in all suitable Accomplishments, endeavouring in the Reign of King Iames to prove his Legitimacy; and meeting with much opposition from the Court, in distaste, he left his Land, and went over into Italy. But worth is ever at home, and carrieth its own welcome along with it. Therefore he became a Favourite to the Duke of Florence, who highly re∣flected on his Abilities, and used his Directions in all his Buildings. At this time Legorn from a Child, started to a Man, without ever being a youth, and of a small Town grew a great City on a sudden, and is much-beholding to this Sir Robert for its Fairness and Firmness, as chief contriver of both. But by this time his Adversaries in England had procur'd him to be call'd home by a special Privy-Seal; which he refused to obey, and there∣upon all his Lands in England were seised upon by the King, by the Statute of Fugitives. These losses doubled the love of the Duke of Florence unto him. And indeed Sir Robert was a much-meriting person on many Accounts, being an

Excellent

• 1 Mathematician, especially for the Pra∣ctical part thereof in Architecture.
• 2 Physician, his Catholic••n at this day finding good Esteem amongst those of that Faculty.
• 3 Navigator, especially in the Western Seas.

Indeed long before his leaving of England, whilest as yet he was Rectus in Curi••, well esteemed in Queen Elizabeths Court, he sailed with three small Ships to the Isle of Trinidad, in which voy∣age he sunk and took nine Spanish Ships; whereo•• one an Armada of 600 Tun.

He was so acceptable to Ferdinand the second, Emperour of Germany, that by his Letters Pa∣tents bearing date at Vienna, March 9•• 1620. he conferred on him and his Heirs the Title of a Duke of the Sacred Empire. Understand it a Title at large (as that of Count Arundel's) without the Assignation of any proper Place unto him.

King Iames had heard s•• much of the Father, that he did not care for the Son, who might have been near his Person, had not his Ancestors been so near ••his Predecessors—no other Considerations being likely to keep so extraordinary parts at this distance from a King that valued them so highly, or a Kingdom that needed them so much.—That Prince being as jealous an observer of Original sin in Policy, as he was an Orthodox Assertor of it in Religion, would trust no tainted blo••d. He writ an excellent discourse of Religion as the blind Sena∣tor in Juvenal made a large Encomium of the

goodly Turbet which lay before Caesar, but as ill luck would have it, turned himself quite the con∣trary way; at illi d••xtra j••c••bat bellua, a man right of Chrysippus his temper, who sometimes wanted Opinions; but never Arguments, which he ma∣naged all ways with contempt of, and opposition to the School-way, which going the distinctest way to state•• went the nearest way to end contro∣versies, but was slighted by him as unintelligible, because it had been passed by him as unstudied, as the old Woman in Seneca, complained that the Room was dark, when only her Eyes were so, and his new 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 wherein he made his private and crazy judgment the Standard and Seal of common truth, took a little with mens first thoughts, but lost themselves with their wiser, and second, like the Log in the Fable which terrified the poor Frogs with the noise it made at the first falling of it into the waters, but afterwards they insulted over it, and took their turns to leap upon it. When I consider Metiochus his cariage in Plutarc, and Sir Robert's Character in Florence, haec a se non mul∣tum abludit imago: Metiochus is Captain, Metiochus is Surveyor, Metiochus bakes the Bread, Metiochus grinds the Corn, Metiochus doth all; right one of AEsop's fellows, that could say and do all things; so that others need say and do nothing, a very happy man if while living he had deserved the Character idle Vaccia had when dead. Hîc situs est Vaccia, here lyeth Vaccia.

Observations on the Life of Arch-Bi∣shop Bancroft.

DOctor Richard Bancroft, (whom his Adver∣saries character a better States-man than Divine, a better Divine than Preacher, though upon good occasion he shewed he was all these) was bred in Iesus Colledge in Cambridge, where his parts in discovering the bottom of Presbytery, and his sufficiency when his Patron Hatton's Exa∣miner commended him to Queen Eliz. to be Bi∣shop of London, and to King Iames to be Arch-Bi∣shop of Canterbury. Indeed he was in effect Arch-Bishop while Bishop, to whom Doctor Whitgift in his decrepit age remitted the managing of matters, so that he was the soul of the High-Commission. A great States-man he was, and grand Champion of Church-discipline; having well hardned the hands of his Soul, which was no more than needed for him, who was to meddle with Nettles and Bryars, and met with much opposition.

No wonder if those who were silenced by him in the Church, were loud against him in other pla∣ces.* 1.9 David speaketh of poyson under mens lips; This Bishop tasted plentifully thereof from the mouths of his Enemies, till at last (as Mithridates) he was so habited to poisons, that they became food unto him. Once a Gentleman coming to visit him, presented him a Libel, which he found pasted on his door; who being nothing moved thereat, said, Cast it to an hundred more which lye here on a

h••ap in my Chamber. Many a Libel, (Lye) (because false) (Bell) because loud) was made upon him. The aspersion of covetousness, though cast, doth not stick on his memory, being confuted by the Estate which he left, small in proportion to his great preferment, being but 6000 l. after being above twelve years in London and Canterbury.

He cancelled his first Will, wherein he had be∣queathed much to the Church: suspecting an im∣pression of popular violence on Cathedrals, and fearing an Alienation of what was bequeathed unto them, he thought fit to cancel his own, to pre∣vent others cancelling his Testament. This partly appears by his second Will, wherein he gave the Library at Lambeth (the result of his own, and three Predecessors collections) to the University of Cambridge (which now they possess) in case the Arch-Episcopal See should be extinct.

How came such a jealousie into his mind? what fear of a storm when the Sun shined, the Sky clear, no appearance of Clouds? Surely his skill was more than ordinary in the complexion of the Com∣mon-wealth, who did foresee what afterward (for a time) came to pass. This clause providentially inserted, secured this Library in Cambridge during the vacancy of the Archi-Episcopal see, and so prevented the embezelling, at the least the dis∣membring thereof, in our late civil distempers.

They that accuse this excellent Prelate of cruelty, never read this story: A Ministe•• privately prote∣sted to him, that it went against his conscience to con∣form. Which way said the good Arch-Bishop (ob∣serving the mans ingenuity) will you live, if you be put out of your Benefice? The other answered,

He had no other way but to g•• a begging. Not so (said the Arch-bishop) that you shall not need to do, but come to me, and I will take order for your mainte∣nance.

They that exclaimed against his unserviceable∣ness, never observed this passage: A company of young Courtiers appeared extraordinary gallant at a Tilting, far above their Fortunes and Estates, gi∣ving for their Motto, Solvat Ecclesia. Bishop Ban∣croft then of London hearing of it, finds on enquiry that the Queen was passing a considerable parcel of Church-lands to them, and stops the business with his own and his friends Interest, leaving these Gal∣lants to pay the shot of their pride and prodigality out of their own purses. —And this; that a prevalent Courtier had swallowed up the whole Bishoprick of Durham, had not this Arch-Bishop seasonably interposed his power with King Iames (ready e∣nough to admit such Intercessions) and dashed the design. They that traduce him for a Papist, for∣get that he fomented the difference between the Seculars, and Regulars, to the weakning, and pro∣moted the foundation of Chelsey-Colledge, to the ru∣ining of that cause.

But they that perform great actions, reserving as it is fit the reason of them in their own bosomes, may sufficiently satisfie their Consciences towards God, though they can hardly avoid the censures of men.

I shall add no more concerning this excellent Prelate, but that it was observed as the Historian writes, That at Hampton-Court-Conference Arch-Bishop Whitgift spake most gravely, Bishop Bilson most learnedly, but Bishop Bancroft [when out of passi••n] most politickly.

Observations on the Life of the Lord Grandison.

SIr Oliver Saint-Iohn, Lord Grandison, &c. descended of an ancient and honourable Fa∣mily, whose prime Seat was at Lediard-Tregoze in Wiltshire, though their first settlement was in South-Wales. He was bred in the Wars from his youth, and at last by King Iames was appointed Lord Deputy of Ireland, and vigorously pursued the Principles of his Predecessors for the civilizing thereof. Indeed the Lord Mountjoy reduced that Countrey to obedience, the Lord Chichester to some civility, and this Lord Grandison first advan∣ced it to considerable profit to his Master. T. Wal∣singham a 1.10 writeth, that Ireland afforded unto Ed∣ward the third thirty thousand pounds a year paid into his Exchequer: but it appears by the b 1.11 Irish Records (which are rather to be believed) that it was rather a burthen, and the constant Revenue thereof beneath the third part of that proportion.

But now, the Kingdom being peaceably setled, the income thereof turned to good Account, so that Ireland (called the Land of Ire for the constant broils therein for four hundred years) was now be∣come the Land of Concord.

This noble Person recalled into England, li∣ved many years in great repute, leaving his Ho∣nours to his Sisters son by Sir Edward Villiers, but the main of his Estate to his Brothers son Sir Iohn St. Iohn Knight and Baronet. So sweet and charm∣ing

his Conversation, that he was beloved by all his Superiours, and envied by no Inferiour; be∣ing never advanced to any great Dignity, but he was wished to a greater: So exact his vigilancy, so constant his industry, so plausible his actions, attended with no less civility to all men, than duty to his Soveraign: So frank and ingenious his Integrity, that none feared him; so discreet his management of Business, and so strong his judge∣ment, that any might confide in him. One he was that crossed the Italian Proverb,

Di Dunaridi senno, e di fede, In e Mancho che non Crede:

having more money, more faith, yea and more wisdom too than was generally esteemed. I mean wisdom of behaviour, wisdom of busi∣ness, and wisdom of State; in the last whereof he aimed at a general settlement, which he ob∣served would bear particular errors, provided that Care, Labour, Vigilancy, and prudent in∣quiet••de attended, that forceth Difficulties, con∣strains Fortune, assures good Counsels, corrects bad, supports and overthroweth designs, dis∣poseth of accidents, abserveth time, manageth hazards, forgets nothing; seldom trusts others, and improveth all Occurrents: and that first max∣ime of Policy he observed, That who layeth out most, layeth out least, that petty frugalities undo the main Interest.

Observations on the Life of Sir Tho. Overbury.

SIr Thomas Overbury, son to Sir Nicholas O∣verbury, one of the Judges of the Marches, was born at Burton on the Hill in Gloucester∣shire, bred in Oxford, and attained to be a most accomplished Gentleman, partly at Grayes-Inn, and partly in France; which the happiness of his Pen both in Poetry and Prose doth declare. In the later he is observed to be the first writer of Chara∣cters of our Nation. But if the great parts of this Gentleman were guilty of Insolence and Petulancy, which some since have charged on his memory; reporting of him, that he should say, Somerset ow∣ed his advancement to him, and that he should walk with his hat on before the queen; we may charitably presume, that his reduced age would have corrected such Juvenile extravagancies. It is questionable, whether Robert Carr Earl of So∣merset were more in the favour of King Iames, or this Sir Thomas Overbury in the favour of the Earl of Somerset, until he lost it by disswading that Lord from keeping company with a Lady (the Wife of another person of honour) as neither for his credit here, or comfort hereafter. Soon after Sir Thomas was by King Iames designed Embassador for Russia. His false friends perswa∣ded him to decline the Employment, as no bet∣ter than an honourable Grave. Better lye some days in the Tower, than more months in a worse

Prison; A ship by Sea, and a barbarous cold Countrey by Land. Besides, they possessed him, that within a small time, the King should be wrought to a good opinion of him. But he that willingly goes into a Prison, out of hope to come easily out of it, may stay therein so long, till he be too late convinced of another Judgement. Whi∣lest Sir Thomas was in the Tower, his Refusal was presented to the K. as an Act of high Contempt, as if he valued himself more than the Kings ser∣vice. His strict restraint gave the greater liberty to his enemies to practice his death, 1615. which was by poyson performed: Yet was his blood le∣gally revenged, which cost some a violent, and others a civil death, as deprived of their Offi∣ces. The Earl was soon abated in King Iames his affection (Oh! the short distance betwixt the cooling and quenching of a Favourite) being con∣demned, and banished the Court.

Exact are the remarks he drew up of Foreign Countreys, & therefore no less such his transactions for his own. In this most esteemed with King Iames and his Master, that he suited both their Genius's in the easie and clear method, wherein he expressed the most difficult and knotty Affairs; for they both being perplexed with that variety of Affairs in general, that they could not readily look into difficult Cases in particular, loved those that made things out easie and clear to them, as well fitted for their apprehensions, as obvious to their judgement—owning a Soul so quiet, that a∣bate its youthful extravagancies, it knew not a motion but what was Duty and Interest; felt no a∣gitation but what was reason, and what Philoso∣phy

conveyed into the souls of the wisest, and ob∣servation in••n••ated into the spirit of the closest: if he expect••d a recompence suitable to his servi∣ces, or an acknowledgment answerable to his me∣rit, he understood not the humour and n••ture of mankind, the interest of F••vourites, or his o••n Parts, too guilty of rep••t••tion to be advanced, and of power not to be suppressed.—It's M••chi••∣vel's rule; That they who rise very high, should desce••d timely, and q••it the envy, lest they lose the honour of their gre••tness. Although this Gen∣tleman's skill in accommodating Factions, in the Art of Negotiation, in the charm o•• Language, in the I••terest of Princes, in maste••ing his o••n Resentments as well as his Enemies th••t provok••d him, h••d preserved him, if he had known as well how to hold his Tong••e, as how to speak; if he had understood othe••s humours as well as they did his; and if he had skilled as well fr••m whom to have refused kindness, as from whom he deserved it.—In a wo••d, he that considered so many other Maximes, was defective in complyance with his own, viz. That vertue is there unprofit••••le, where too great; and that many had lost the favour of their Masters by over-much meriting it.

Observations on the Life of Sir Clem. Edmonds.

SIr Clement Edmonds, that learned and judicious Remembrancer of the City of London, was born at * 1.12 Shratvardine in Shropshire, and bred Fe••low of All-Souls Colledge in Oxford, being ge∣nerally skilled in all Arts and Sciences; witness his faithful Translations of, and learned Illustrations on Caesar's Commentaries. Say not that Comment on Commentary was false Heraldry, seeing it is so worthy a work, that the Author thereof may pass for an eminent instance to what perfection of Theo∣ry they may attain to in matter of War, who were not acquainted with the Practick part thereof; be∣ing once employed by Queen Elizabeth, with a dispatch to Sir Francis Vere, which occasioned his presence at the Battel at Newport: For he doth so smartly discuss, pro and con, and seriously decide many Martial Controversies, that his judgment therein is praised by the best Military Masters.

King Iames taking notice of his Abilities, made him Clerk of the Council, and Knighted him; and he was at last preferred Secretary of State, in the vacancy of that place; but prevented by death, he acted not therein. At this day his goodness in his general carriage out-did his prudence, and his prudence in particular, his goodness; but his in∣dustry loth in all things, and in nothing more than in his Scotch Neg••tiation, where he over-reached the slye French, composed and setled the unsatis∣fied

King, and sent those weekly Advertisements to his Mistriss, that Sir Robert Cecil confessed the Master-wheel of those years revolutions.

When Charles the fifth presented Secretary Era∣so to his Son Philip the second, he said, He gave him somewhat greater than his Estate, and more royal than his Empire. When Sir William Waad intro∣duced Sir Clement Edmonds to Court, he brought thither in that person more than he coul•• carry away in his own: A person much accomplished in the great precepts and rules he observed; more in his experience and application of those he practised; wherein he was wise, but not presumptuous; exact, but not pedantick; allowing much to old Obser∣vations, more to new Circumstances: He was not more beholding to his Nature, than his Nature to his Study and Meditation; and that to time and ex∣perience, which offered at once occasions of in∣instruction, and matter of exercises, to his great un∣derstanding, so well acquainted with the a••••airs of former Ages, that he could not be surprized with those of his own, knowing how to command, be∣fore he was called to obey, as who trusted not to his own, short and perplexed life, that scarce holds out five or six important Negotiations, and ordinarily ceaseth to be, before it beginneth to know: but his policy may be guessed from his morality; and his publick carriage in the tumults of Affairs, from his private conduct and command in the disorders of nature, these being as well managed by his reason, as the former by his prudence: His lesser skill in governing the little world being an earnest of that more large in ruling the greater.—The Govern∣ment of others, saith Philosophy, is not fit for him who is a Slave to himself,

Observations on the Life of James Hay, Earl of Carlisle.

ONe Hay his Ancestor saved Sco••land from an Army of Danes at Longcarty with a a 1.13 Y••ak in his hand. Iames Hay 6••0 years after saved the King of that Countrey from the Gowries at their house with a C••lter in his: the first had as much ground assigned him by King Kenith as a Falcon could flye over at one flight, and the other as much Land as he could ride round in two dayes. The whole Family fell before Dub••in-Castle in for∣mer dayes, fave a child left in his Mothers womb; and had decayed in ours, but that the heir of it was cut out from his. He served his Master in Scotland by his Generosity; and in England with his H••spita∣lity; the decay whereof King Iames observed the defect of the English Nobility; and the restaurati∣on of it, he designed the honour of the Scots Gentry. Royal was his Masters munificence to∣wards him, noble his towards others; His Majesty being not more intent upon his advancement for publick service, than he was upon the advance∣ment of others to h••s private assistance••: His Maje∣sties gracious inclination being for a Reign of Peace, this servants estate was spent upon the Arts of it, I mean upon Feasts, Masques, gay Cloathes, and such other Delicacies as might soften our har∣••her natures to quietness, that Princes interest, who was first to understand, and then to manage the ••trength of this Nation.

Although he failed in most of his Negotiations, because he carried his money on his back, rather than in his pur•••••• rather to spend, than to bestow; and amaze Foreigners, rather than oblige them: Yet was his Embassie more suitable to the French vani∣ty, than either the Dutch thrift, or the German plain∣ness; and his carriage more answerable to a gaw∣dy Treaty of Marriage, than to a close Agency for Interest, or the intricate consultations of War. So great the report of his Hospitality, that an Host of Delph demanded sixty pounds for providing him a Supper, though he never came that way; yet so displeasing to the Prince of Orange, that when his Steward asked what he should provide extraordi∣narily for the great Embassador's entertainment; the Prince looks on his Bill of Fare, and whereas there was but one Pig, he bid them write two; tartly reflecting as well on my Lords Nation, as his magnificence.— One of his Entertainments I understand not the reason of, I mean his Ante-Suppers; the manner of which was, to have the Board covered at the first entrance of Guests, with dishes as high as a tall man could well reach, filled with the choicest and dearest Viands Sea or Land could afford: and all this once seen, and having feasted the eyes of the invited, was removed, and fresh set on to the same height, having onely this advantage of the other, that it was hot; at one whereof, an Attendant eat to his single share a whole Pye reckoned to my Lord at twenty pounds, being composed of Amber-greece, Ma∣gisterial of Pearl, Musk, &c. yet was so far from being sweet in the morning, that he almost poy∣soned his whole Family, flying himself like the

Satyr from his own stink: and another went away with forty pound of Sweet-meats in his Cloak-bag. Yet must I needs judg•• ••••m uncharitable that writ of this noble person, that when the most able Physicians, and his own weakness had passed a judgement he could not live ma••y dayes, he did not forbear his Entertainments, bu•• made divers brave Cloaths, as he said, to out••ace ••aked and despicable Death; adding withal, That nature want∣ted wisdom, power or love, in making man m••rtal and subject to diseases: Forgetting (as that censorio••s Pen goeth on) that if every Individual his own lust had been able to have produced, should have prosecuted an equal excess with his, they would in a far less time than an age have br••••ght themselves or the world into the same disease he died of, which was a Consumption.

For my part, I adhere to their Civility that re∣present his nature modest, his demeanor fair and Court-like, his obligations general, his interest as great with the Favourite as with the King, and so much the greater with the King, as he studied him more, and understood him better than any man: though one observeth, he was rather in his favour, than in his bosome, and therefore he took care, That as his Expedition and Civility made him the great Master of Requests at Court so his Marriage with the Heir-general of the Dennies should get him an Estate in the Countrey — wherewith he compleated his kindness with bounty, and ado••ned his bounty with courtesie.— Courtesie not affe∣cted, but naturally made up of humility, that se∣cured him from Envy, and a Civility that kept him in esteem; he being happy in an expression that

was high, and not formal; and a Language that was Courtly, and yet real.

Observations on the Life of Sir Tho∣mas Lake.

SIr Thomas Lake was bred a Scholar under Sara∣via in Hampshire, a States-man under Sir Francis Walsingham at Court, where such his dexterity and dispatch, that he would indite, write, and discourse at the same time, more exactly than most men could severally perform them, being then called the Swift-sure; such his celerity and solidity in all Affairs! From the Secretaries A∣manuensis, he was promoted the Queens Clerk of the Signet, to whom he read French and Latine to her dying day; for he was reading to her, when the Countess of Warwick told him that the Queen was departed. In which Tongues she often said he sur∣passed her Secretaries. Such his sufficiency (especi∣ally in keeping secrets) that King Iames employed him in some French Affairs at his first arrival with∣out Cecil, and afterwards as Secretary of State a∣bove him.

For King Iames (that loved what ever was fa∣cile and fluent) being taken among other his Abi∣lities with his Latine pen, said, that he was a Mi∣nister of State fit to serve the greatest Prince in Eu∣rope; and that the Secretaries place needed him more than he it. Of whom I have no more to add, but that he was one of the three noble hands that first led Mr. George Villiers to King Iames his Fa∣vour.

Observations on the Life of Lyonel Cranfield, Earl of Middlesex.

SIr Lyonel was born in Basinghal-street, a Citizen, bred in the Custome-house, a Merchant-Ad∣venturer; his own Tutor, and his own Universi∣ty; though his Family was ancient in Gloucester∣shire, and his Arms in the Heralds Office. King Iames was taken with him for his brief, clear, strong and pertinent discourses: The Duke of Bucking∣ham was displeased because he would stand without him, yea in some things against him: many were as active as this stirring Lord, none more exact; his presence was comely, his countenance cheerful and grave, his soul witty and wise, his apprehen∣sion quick and solid, his thoughts setled and resol∣ved. When one asked him how a man might pre∣vent death, he said, Get to be Lord-Treasurer, for none died in that Office. Though no Scholar, yet was he bountiful to Scholars; though a Courtier, yet was he hospitable in the Countrey; though he suffered much, yet was he contented; and though he lost much, yet was he charitable. Very ser∣viceable he was to the State in the business of Trade in general, but most in that of the Custom-house in particular: His first preferment was the custody of the Wardrobe, his second was the Mastership of the Cou••t of Wards and Liveries, and his third the Treasurer-ship of England. In the last whereof, his improvement of the Revenue, gained him not more honour with the King, than it d••d him envy

from the Courtiers; While to piece out the Trea∣sure with the expence, he husbanded the one so thriftily, and retrenched the other so rigidly, that malice it self after many attempts to that purpose, could find no fault with his exact account in the boundless trust of the tempting Treasury.

When the Prince was in Spain, he was the Sta••es∣man of the Council-Table, and the chief Minister of the Cabal, managing all the Dispatches, and o∣verlooking all the Expences: In the last of which services he ran counter to the Duke of Bucking∣ham's inclination, and his own Interest; which was to keep himself up by that noble Person's favour, as he rose by his Alliance. The occasion of his pre∣ferment might be some saving secrets of the Cu∣stome-house-men to improve the Revenue; the reason of his decline, was some thrifty suggestion touching the Courtiers to preserve it.

This is certain, he was a man fit for government, who quickly apprehended where any evil was, and had capacity enough to apply the remedy; onely he had a little too stiffe a nature that would not ea∣sily yield, when he found on which side there was most reason; and too much of the City in his ma∣ximes, which pretended to attain to that in a short time, which Politicians think not proper to arrive at but by a leasurely fuccession of Ages and Genera∣tions.

Observations on the Life of Henry Howard Earl of Northampton.

THis Family had endeared it self to many Kings by its services, but to none more than King Iames by its obligations. Tho∣mas Duke of Norfolk being as it were his Mothers Martyr [executed for a design to marry her] and all his Relations his confessors [kept under for their inclinations to advance him:] Reasonable there∣fore it was, that my Lord that Dukes brother should be made Baron of Marnhill, Earl of Nor∣thampton, Knight of the Garter, Privy-Coun∣cellor, Lord Privy Seal, and Lord Warden of the Cinque-Ports.—Learning in any man had King Iames his affection, especially in a Noble-man, as our States-man, who was as serious a Student in Kings-Colledge and Trinity-Hall in Cambridge, as a discerning observator in Rome and Florence in Italy. His Dispensative against the suppased poyson of Prophe∣sies, dedicated to Sir Francis Walsingham, bespeaks him a great and a general Scholar: His Speeches at Cambridge and in Star-Chamber, argue him both witty and wise: His expences shewed him publick-spirited, the unparallel'd port of his Family and dependants an Ancient Noble-man: His designing of Audley-End, and building of Suffolk-house, an Architect: His Hospital for tw••lve poor women, and a Governour at Rise in Norfolk; for twelve poor men, and a Gove••nour at Clin in Shropshire; for twenty poor men, and a Governour at Greenwich in Kent

[whereof eight to be chosen out of Shose-Sham where he was born] a charitable man: his using of all his interest to avoid the burthen and weight of the Treasurer's place, and procure it for the Earl of Suffolk his Nephew, his noble disposition, not to advance himself by Court-flattery, or his fortune by State employment, being a Batchellour and a Stu∣dent; An instance of my Lord Bacon's observation;

He that hath Wife and Children, hath given Hosta∣ges to Fortune, for they are Impediments to great Enterprizes either to Vertue or Mischief. Certainly the best works, and of greatest merit for the Publick proceed from the unmarried and the Childeless, which both in affection and means have married and endowed the Publick.

But to conclude this particular; this Lord told his intimate Secretary Mr. George Penny (who rela∣ted it to my Author) that his Nativity (at his Fa∣thers desire) was calculated by a skilful Italian A∣strologer, who told him that this his Infant-son should taste of much trouble in the middest of his life, even to the want of a meals meat; but his old age should make amends for all, with a plentiful e∣state: which came to pass accordingly. For his Fa∣ther dying in his infancy, no plentiful provision was made for him: and when his eldest Brother Thomas Duke of Norfolk was executed, his condition was much impaired; insomuch that being once in Lon∣don (not overstocked with money (when his noble Nephews the Earl of Arundel and the Lord Tho∣mas Howard were out of Town) and loath to pin himself on any Table uninvited) he was fain to dine with the Chair of Duke Humphrey; but other

(not to say better company) viz. reading of books in Stationers Shops in St. Paul's Church-yard; though afterwards he attained to great wealth, ho∣nour and command: However that Lord gave lit∣tle credit to, and placed less confidence in such Predictions, as appeared by a learned Work he hath written on that subject.

Observations on the Life of Sir John Ramsey, Earl of Holderness, and Sir Tho. Ereskin Earl of Kelley.

BOth their preferment•• began on the same oc∣casion; both their natures were eminent for the same innocence and goodness; both their services tend to the same issue, and therefore both their Characters come under one observati∣on; which it's more proper to take in the word of their Countrey-man and Contemporary that knew them, than in the expression of a stranger that one∣ly heard of them. The whole story runs thus:

The name of Ruthen in Scotland was not notori∣ous, until Anno 1568. when Ruthen amongst o∣thers, Confederates, in those divided times of trou∣ble, laboured much for the imprisoning Queen Mary Mother to King Iames. In 1582. his son William was created Earl Goury, in the time of that King's minority, though the Father bore dead∣ly hatred to the King's prosperity. And in 1584. himself was in actual Rebellion, in which he suffered at Dondee. His eldest son Iohn, then in Travel in Italy,

returns home to inherit his lands and honours; but not one jot changed in disposition from the traiter∣ous ways of his Predecess••rs: For not long after he falls into this Conspiracy; which is not so ancient, but that many then and now living, can, and my self, have heard the repetition.

The house of Gowry were all of them much ad∣dicted to study Chymistry; and these more to practise it, often publishing (as such Professors usually do) more rare experiments then ever could be perform∣ed; wherein the King (a general Scholar) had little faith. But to infuse more credit to the pra∣ctice, Alexander Ruthen the second brother takes this occasion, and withal conspires with Gowry to assassinate the King; and taking opportunity in his hunting, not far from his house St. Iohnstone, in∣vites the King to be an eye-witness of his produ∣ctions. In their way Sir Thomas Erskin (after Lord Kelley) overtakes them and others, Demanding of the Duke of Lenox, then present, why Alexander had ingrossed the King's ear, to carry him from his Sports? Peace man, said the Duke, Wee's all be turn'd into gold. Not far they rid, but that the Earl Gowry made good by protestation his Brother's story. And thus was the King brought to be a Guest.

Neer the end of Dinner, at his Fruit, and the Lords and Waiters gone to eat, Alexander begs of the King, at this opportunity to withdraw, and to be partaker of his Production, to the view of that which yet he could not believe.

And up h•• leads the King into by-lodgings lock∣ing each door behind them, till they came into a Back-Room; where no sooner entered, but that A••exander claps on his Bonnet, and with stern coun∣tenance,

faces the Kin••, and says; Now Sir, you must know, I had a Father, whose blood calls for re∣venge, shed for your sake. The King amazed, deals gently with his fury, excuses the guilt of his death, by his then-Infancy. Advising him not to lay violent hands on the sacred Person of his Anointed Sove∣raign, Especially in a cause of his Innocency: Pleading the Laws of God and Man; which so much wrought upon him, that he said, Well, I will speak•• with my Brother; and so put the King into a Lobby Room next the Chamber; where no sooner entered, but that there appeared a fellow weaponed, ready for ex∣ecution, to whose custody the King is committed till his return.

Alexander gone down, the fellow trembles with Reverence, puts down his Sword, and craves pardon; which gave the King occasion to work up∣on that passion, and to ask him whether he resol∣ved to murther him? Being assured to the contra∣ry, the King gets leave to open a window, that looked into a back Court. When presently Alex∣ander returns, and tells the King that he must dye: But much affrighted at the Fellow's countenance, with his sword offers violence to the King; Which the fellow seemingly opposes, and between them be∣gan a scuffle, which gave advantage to the King to cry Treason at the Window, which looked into a back-Court, where Sir Thomas Erskin, and one Herries, were come in pursuit of the King, who was rumoured to be gone out the back-way to his hunt∣ing.

At the cry of Treason, and known to be the King's voice, they both hastened up a back-stair, called the Turn-pike, being directed by a servant of

the house, who saw Alexander ascend that way. And so forcing some doors, that found them a∣bove, panting with the fray; and up comes also at heels of them, Iohn Ramsey (after Earl of Holder∣ness:) by them Alexander was soon dispatch∣ed.

Not long after came the Earl Gowry (by his dou∣ble key) the first way, with a case of Rapiers, his usual weapons, and ready drawn. To whom Ers∣ki•• said, as to divert his purpose; What do you mean, my Lord? the King is kill'd: (for the King was shadowed, having cast himself upon a Re•• from his sight, and his Cloak was thrown upon the Bo∣dy of Alexander, bleeding upon the ground:) At which Gowry stops, sinking the points of his wea∣pons; when suddenly Herries strikes at him with a hunting Falchion. And Ramsey having his Hawk on his fist, casts her off, and steps in to Gowry, and stabs him to the heart; and forthwith more Com∣pany came up.

Not long after this Conspiracy, Herries dies well rewarded. Iohn Ramsey hath the Honour of Knighthood, with an additional bearing to his Coat of Arms, A Hand holding forth a Dagger, reversed proper, piercing a bloody Heart, The point crowned Emperial, with this Distick, Haec Dextra Vindex Principis & Patriae. Afterwards he was created Lord Haddington, and Earl of Holder∣n••ss.

Sir Thomas Erskin was afterwards created Earl of Kelly, Knight of the Garter, Captain of the King's Guard, and Groom of the Stool; and the Fellow designed for the Murtherer, had a large Pension confirmed by Act of their Parliam••nt.

And all these men (but Herries) were living, with other witnesses, at King Iames his journey, when he went from hence to visit Scotland, and met together by direction at the same house, with Ce∣remony; and all of them, with a number of Courti∣ers, ascended into the same Room, the blood yet r••maining, where the King related the Story, which was confirmed by them. And afterwards kneeling down, with tears of Contrition for his Sins to God, and thankfulness for this Mercy, using ma∣ry pi••us Ejaculations, embraced all these Actors in the former Tragedy; when the poor fellow also kist the King's hand.

These circumstances gave occasion then, that this whole story was freshly revived, to the common Satisfaction of the whole Countrey, and our English Courtiers. And in especial, unto the very reve∣rend Bishop, and nobly born, Iames Mountague, then present, to whom the King addressed himself in this Relati••n, and from whose Mouth saith the Relator, I received these particulars, at his return into Eng∣land.

And thus much we have by word of mouth: somewhat I shall add out of writings, for more sa∣tisfaction.

This Treason was attempted the fourth of Au∣g••st 1600. And though there followed sundry Sus∣••itions and Examinations of several other Persons, supposed Abettors and Contrivers; yet it lay un∣discovered, tanquam e post liminio, until eight years after, by the circumspection principally of the ••arl of Dunbar, a man of as great wisdom as those t••mes and that Kingdom could boast of, upon the ••e••son of on•• Geo••ge S••ro••, Notary-publick of

A••emouth in Scotland, from some words which at first he sparingly or unawares expressed, and also by some papers which were found in his house; where∣of being examin'd, with a little ado he confessed, and was condemned and executed at Edenburgh the 12th. of A••g. 1608.

A Relation I conceive not common, but in my hands to be produced, and written by that learned Gentleman William Hart, then Lord Iustice of Sco••land, and Principal in all the Acts of Judica∣ture herein.

Neither of these Lords professed any skil•• in Po∣liticks; yet neither wanted a strong judgment, which they could make good use of in time and place convenient, giving testimonies in those Em∣ployments they had, of a strict secrecy, a great mo∣deration, and a happy compliance with opportuni∣ty, Qualities exceedingly well lodged in men of Interest and Command, especially in these two, who neither too easily closed with others resolutions, nor too obstinately adhered to their own; one of which was alwayes to suspect men of new words, as much as men of new opinions, because to flye from proper School terms to vulgar conceptions, is a way seldome troden but by false Prophets, and Se∣ditious Orators—who have done this onely good in the world, that from their collition a considerable deal of light hath proceeded towards the clearing of several points in Philosophy and Religion— in the speculations whereof the men whose lives are so practical and involved in business, are not so distinct, being not at leisure to quest at every Lark which men spring in either; though other∣wise the best q••alified for s••ch undertakings, be∣cause

men of most judgement and experience; and of ••he least passion and prejudice, and by so much the less impetuous and censorious, by how much the more judicious and discreet; and by so much the more value in the Eyes of others, by how much the less they are in their own; who have this a••vant••ge in controversies, that their Religion is thoug••t as much better than their Adversaries, as their Charity and moderation is greater.

Observations on the Fall of Sir Tho. Lake.

A Great Estate this Gentleman had honestly got, and a greater esteem, being King Iames his right hand, and the Scots both hands; that with which they begged, and that with which they bestowed; the instrument of the meaner sorts relief, and the greaters bounty; until that Malice and Revenge, two violent passions over-ruling the Weaker Sex, concerning his Wife and daughter, involved him in their quarrel, the chief and onely cause of his ruine. He had by his Wife sons and daughters: His eldest married unto the Lord Baron Resse (in right of a Grand∣mother) the son of Thomas Earl of Exeter by a fo••mer venter. And upon the credit of Sir Thomas Lake, he was sent Embassador Extraordinary into Spain, in a very gallant Equipage, with some hopes of ••is own to continue Lieger, to save charges of transmitting any other.

In his absence there fell out an extream deadly fewd ('tis no matter for what) between the Lady Lake, and the Countess of Exeter. A youthful Wi∣dow she had been, and vertuous, and so became Bedfellow to this aged, gowty, diseased, but noble Earl. And that preferment had made her subject to Envy and Malice.

Home comes the Lord Rosse from his Embassie, when being fallen into some neglect of his W••fe and his kindred, I conceive upon refusal of an in∣crease of allowance to her settlement of Ioynture, which was promised to be compleated at his re∣turn; not long he stays in England, but away he gets into Italy, turns a professed Roman Catholick, being cozened into that Religion by his publick Confident Gondamore.

In this his last absence (never to return) the Mother and Daughter accuse the Countess of former Incontinency with the Lord R••sse whilest he was here, and that therefore upon his Wives discovery he was fled from hence, and from her Marriage-Bed; with other devised Calumnies, by several de∣signs and contrivements, to have poysoned the Mo∣ther and Daughter.

This quarrel was soon blazon'd at Court, to the King's ear, who as privately as could be, singly examines each party. The Countess with tears and imprecations professeth her Innocency; which to oppose, the Mother Lake and her Daughter coun∣terfeit her hand to a whole sheet of Paper; where∣in they make the Coun••ess with much contrition to ackno••ledge her self guilty, crave pardon for at∣tempting to poyson them, and desire friendship with them all.

The King gets sight of this, as in favour to them, and demands the time, place, and occasion when this should be writ. They tell him, that all the parties met in a visit at Wimbleton (the house of the Lord of Exeter) where, in dispute of their differences, she confesses her guilt of attempting their poyson. And being desirous of absolution and friendship (being required thereto) con∣sents to set down all Circumstances therein, un∣der her own hand, which presently she writ at the Window in the upper end of the great Chamber at Wimbleton, in presence of the Mother and Daugh∣ter, the Lord Rosse, and one Diego a Spaniard his confiding Servant. But now they being gone, and at Rome, the King forthwith sends Mr. Dendy (one of his Serjeants at Armes, sometimes a Domestick of the Earl of Exeters, an honest and worthy Gen∣tleman) post to Rome, who speedily returns with Rosse and Diego's hand, and other testimoni∣als, confirming, That all the said Accusation, and Confession, Suspitions and Papers concerning the Countess, were notorious false and scandalous; and confirms it by receiving the Hoast, in assurance of her Honour, and his Innocency. The King well sa∣tisfied, sends to the Countesses Friends and Trustees for her Ioynture and Estate; who comparing many of her letters with this Writing, do confess it coun∣terfeit.

Then he tells the Mother and Daughter, That this writing being denied by her, and their testi∣monies, being parties, would not prevail with any belief, but any other Additional witness would give it sufficient credit. To which they assure him, That one Sarah Swarton, their Chamberesse, stood

behind the Hanging, at the entrance of the Room, and heard the Countess read over what she had writ: and her also they procure to swear unto this before the King.

To make further tryal, the King in a hunting journey at New-park near Wimbleton, gallops thi∣ther, views the Roo••••, observing the great distance of the Window from the lower end of the Room; and placing himself behind the Hanging, and so other Lords in turn, they could not hear one speak loud from the window.

Then the Housekeeper was call'd, who protested those Hangings had constantly furnisht that Room for thirty years; which the King observed to be two foot short of the ground, and might discover the woman, if hidden behind them. I may present also, the King saying, Oaths cannot confound my sight.

Besides all this, the Mother and Daughter conn∣terfeit another Writing, a Confession of one Luke Hutton, acknowledging for 40 pound annuity, the Countess hired him to poison them; which Man, with wonderful providence was found out private∣ly, and denies it to the King.

And thus prepared, the King sends for Sir Tho∣mas Lake, whom indeed he very much valued; tells him the danger to imbarque himself in this Quarrel, advising him to leave them to the Law, being now ready for the Star-Chamber. He humbly thanked his Majesty, but could not refuse to be a Fa∣ther and a Husband; and so puts his Name with theirs in a cross Bill, which at the hearing, took up five several days, the King sitting in Iudgment. But the former testimonies, and some private con∣fessions

of the Lady Rosse, and Sarah Wharton, which the King kept in private, from publick proceed∣ings, made the Cause for some of the days of Tryal, appear doubtful to the Court, until the Kings dis∣covery, which concluded the Sentence, and was pronounced in several Censures; Sir Thomas Lake and his Lady fined ten thousand pounds to the King, five thousand pounds to the Countess, fifty pounds to Hutton, Sarah Wharton to be whipt at a Carts tail about the streets, and to do penance at St. Martin's Church. The Lady R••sse, for confessing the truth and plot in the midst of the Tryal, was pardoned by the Major Voices from penal Sentence.

The King, I remember, compared their Crimes to the first plot of the first sin in Paradise, the Lady Lake to the Serpent, her Daughter unto Eve, and Sir Thomas to poor Adam, whom he thought in his conscience, that his love to his Wife had beguiled him. I am sure, he paid for all, which, as he told me, cost him thirty thousand pounds, and the loss of his Ma∣sters favour, and Offices of gain and honour, but truely with much pity and compassion of the Court.

Obs••rvations on the Life of the Earl of Suffolk.

HIs Uncle Northampton negotiated his pre∣ferment, and his Father No••folke deserved i••, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 whose sake the eldest Son Philip Earl of Ar••••••••l was ••••de Lord Mars••al, and this se∣cond first C••••mberlain, and then Treasurer:

wherein as the Earl of Middlesex understood well the priviledges of the City, so my Lord kenned well the Revenues of the Crown. But his fair Daughter, that gained him most favour, did him most harm; he falling with his Son Somerset's mis∣carriages, when he might have stood without his Relation: being as plain as his brother Henry was subtle; as obliging, as he was insinuating; as know∣ing, as he was cunning; the one conversing with Books, the other with Men. A Gentleman from whom I requested his Character, returns me no more but this: He was a man never endued with much patience, and one that much retarded the progress of his fortune, by often speaking publickly with too much liber∣ty: Otherwise very true to the Maximes of his Age. 1. Linking himself to the Scots. 2. Buying Fee-Farm Rents to avoid envy, as my Lord of Salisbury before him in the Scots Debenturers names. 3. Promoting Northern Suits. And 4. projecting for money.

He was also Chancellor of Cambridge, loving and beloved of the University. When at his first com∣ing to Cambridge, Mr. Francis Nethersole Oratour of the University, made a Latine Speech unto him; the Lord returned, Though I understand not Latine, I know the sense of your Oration is to tell me that I am welcome to you; which I believe verily: I thank you for it heartily, and will serve you faithfully in any thing within my power. Dr. Harsenet the Vice Chancellor laying hold on the handle of so fair a Proffer, requested him to be pleased to entertain the King at Cam∣bridge; a favour which the University could never compass from their former great and wealthy Chancellours; I will do it (saith the Lord) in the best manner I may, and with the speediest conveniency.

Nor was he worse than his word, giving his Ma∣jesty such a Treatment in the University, as cost him five thousand pounds and upwards. Hence it was, that after his death, Thomas his second son Earl of Bark-shire (not suing for it, nor knowing of it) was chosen to succeed him, losing the place (as some suspected) not for lack of Voices, but fair count∣ing them.

Observations on the Life of Sir Rob•• Cary.

HE was born an ingenious man, of good parts and breeding; but of so uncourtly a temper, that in all likelihood we had not heard of him, had he not had the luck to have been the first Messenger let out of the Court by the favour of his Father the Lord Chamberlain, to bring King Iames news that Queen Elizabeth was dead; when the Scots expe∣ctation was so tyred, that they thought Queen Eliz. would never dye, as long as there was an old woman that could either wear good cloaths, or eat good meat in Eng∣land. Upon which good account he is a Bed-cham∣ber-man to King Iames, and a Tutor to Prince Charles; though he had made better use of his Ta∣lent as a Soldier, than as a Courtier, having too much of the Candor of that Family; that as the Historian observed, spake of things alwayes as they de∣served: And though he had wit enough, yet he had not the judgment or way to make those stand in awe of him, who were m••st obliged to him.

Observations on the Lives of Sir Ro∣bert Naunton, and Sir Francis Nethersole.

SIr Robert Naunton is the Author of one Book of Observations upon the States-men of Queen Eliz. times, and must be the subject of another of King Iames's: He noted then in his youth, what he was to practice afterwards in his more reduced years. His University-Studies at Trinity-Colledge, whereof he was Commoner; and at Trinity-Hall, whereof he was Fellow; His Speeches both while Proctor and Orator of Cambridge, discovered him more inclined to publick Accomplishments, than private Studies: He improved the opportunity of the speech he was to make before K. Iames at Hi••∣chinbrook so well, that as His Majesty was highly af∣fected with his Latine and Learning, so he exactly observed his prudence and serviceableness; where∣upon he came to Court as Sir Thomas Overburies Assistant first, and then as Sir George Villiers friend, who promoted him to be Secretary of State, Ian. 8. 1617. as his Majesty did a while after to be Mr. of the Wards. The first place whereof he dischar∣ged with as much ability and dexterity, as he did the second with integrity; onely he was observed close-handed, whether out of his natural inclina∣tion to Parsimony, or some fixed design to re∣gulate and reduce the great expences of this Na∣tion; or from some hidden and refined politick

consideration, that that might be done by a wary observation of men's integrity and inclination, which was usually done with money: and indeed, as a great man observeth, to procure good in∣formation of particulars touching persons, their natures, their desires and ends, their customs and fashions, their helps and advantages, and whereby they chiefly stand: So again, their weak∣nesses and disadvantages, and where they lye most open and obnoxious; their friends, ••actions, and dependencies: and again, their opposites, envyers, and Competitors; their moods and times, their principles; rules, observations, &c. their acti∣ons how conducted, how favoured, how opposed, &c. is the onely way of success in business, and of prevailing in fortune, especially if attended with this Gentleman's two master-Qualities; 1. Reser∣vedness, the security; 2. Slowness of belief, the si∣new of wisdom. Finding his temper agreeable with the University, he allowed himself more scope and liberty; but observing his particular constitution not suitable to the general state of his times, the whole course of his life was more close, retyred, and reserved, opening it self but with an half-light, and a full advantage: and what he was to others, he believed all others were to him, as hardly tru∣sting them, as he was understood himself, unless surprized in his countenance by the motions of it, or in his actions by the suddenness of them, or in his temper by his passion, but as far as can be gues∣sed; from the Letters that passed between them about the Palatinate. He was of the same make in the State, as Arch-Bishop Abbot was in the Church, zealous and sullen; if others had a better wit than

he in abusing him, he had a better memory than they to think of it; for one Mr. Wiemark a wealthy man, a great N••vilant, and constant Paul's walker, hearing the news that day of the beheading of Sir Walter Rawleigh; His head (said he) would do well upon the shoulders of Sir Robert Naunton Secretary of State. These words were complained of, and Wie∣mark summoned to the Privy-Council, where he pleaded for himself, that he intended no disrespect to Mr. Secretary, whose known worth was above all detraction; onely he spake in reference to an old proverb, Two heads are better than one; and for the present he was dismissed. Not long after, when rich men were called on for a contribution to St. Pauls, Wiemark at Council-Table subscribed a hun∣dred pounds; but Mr. Secretary told him, Two hundred were better than one; which betwixt fear and charity Wiemark was fain to subscribe.

Neither was he sooner up, than he gave his Col∣league and Successor in the Orators place, Sir Francis Nethersole, his hand to advance him too; whom after his elegant Speech on Prince Henry, we find a prudent Agent with the Princes of the Uni∣on, and a faithful Secretary to the Queen of Bohe∣mia, for whom he did much, and suffered more. Yet was he lately alive, and as charitable in his elder years, as ever he was noble in his younger.

Observations on the Life of Sir Ar∣thur Ingram.

SIr Arthur had wit in Italy, where he was a Fa∣ctor, and wealth in London, where he was a Merchant, to be first a Customer, and then a Cofferer to that King, who had this happiness, that he understood so much of all his affairs, as to make a judgement of what persons might be most serviceable to him in each of them. So prag∣matical a person as this Gentleman, was necessary among the Custom-house-men, who were about to engross all the wealth of the Kingdom; and as useful among the Green-cloath-men, who shared amongst themselves vast Concealments. The acti∣vity of his head had undone him, had not the o∣dium of it been allayed by the discretion of his tongue; whatever he spake, being naturally accom∣panied with such a kind of modesty and affability as gained the affection, and attracted the respect of all that conversed with him; onely some wary men were jealous of that watchful and serene habit he had attained to in every conference and action, as well to observe as to act: though it was more than they needed, he having not that good stay and hold of himself, his much observing tempting him to much medling; though never more need of it than at that time, when ninety and odd thousand pounds were spent upon the Palsgrave; to reim∣burse which money, he set up the improvement of Coyn, the Farthings, the borrowing of money

of the Customers, and as many other Projects to get money, as others had to spend it.

Observations on the Life of Sir Henry Yelverton.

THis Gentleman's relation to Sir Thomas O∣verbury brought him to the Earl of Somer∣set's service, and my Lord of Somerset's ser∣vice recommended him to the Kings favour; where∣by he was at first his Counsel learned, and after∣wards his Attorney-General; in which last place his duty enjoyned him the impeachment of that Earl, but his gratitude forbad him: Loth he was to refuse his Masters command, more loth to have a hand in his Patrons ruine; his civility outweighed his prudence, and his obligations his safety: for re∣fusing to implead his Mr. as a great Delinquent at the Bar, he was sent by the Council as a greater to the Tower, where he continued until (as some say) the Duke of Buckingham came to him at mid∣night; and hearing from him such mysteries of State as nearly concerned his own safety, not onely released, sed, but advanced him to a place of Ju∣dicature; which his Integrity and Ability might deserve, but his niceness and narrowness could not keep it: Law and Equity have two Courts, but Law and Discretion should dwell in one breast. The truth is there is a great advantage in the well-setting forth of a mans vertues, fortunes, merits; and again, in the Artificial covering of a mans weaknesses, defects, disgraces; staying upon

the one, sliding from the other, making use of circumstances, &c. which this good and plain man was a stranger to, being not so true to him∣self, or so setled, but that either upon heat, or bravery, or kindness, or trouble of mind and weakness, he would open himself to his Enemies sa∣tisfaction, and his own hazard. — Yet I must needs say, That his Letter of submission to the Duke was ingenuous, if he was guilty; and Courtly, if he was innocent. Sir Francis Bacon took a wiser course in my Lord of Essex his Case, than he in the Earl of Somersets; for when that Lord enter∣tained destructive, before displeasing Counsel, the knowing Knight fairly forsook not his person, whom his pity attended to his Grave, but his pra∣ctises; and herein was not the worse friend, for be∣ing the better Subject.

Observations on the Life of Bishop Mountague.

JAmes M••untague son to Sir Edward Mountague, was born at B••ughton in Northamptonshire, bred in Christ••-C••lledge in Cambridge: He was af∣terwards Master, or rather nursing Father to Sidney-Colledge; For he found it in bonds to pay twenty Marks per annum to Trinity-Colledge for the ground whereon it is built, and left it free, assign∣ing it a rent for the discharge thereof. When the Kings Ditch in Cambridge made to defend it by its strength, did in his time offend it with its stench, he expended a hundred Marks to bring running-water

into it, to the great conveniency of the Uni∣versity. He was afterwards Bishop first of Bath and Wells, th••n of Winch••ster, being highly in favour with King Iames, who did ken a man of merit, as well as any Prince in Christendom. He translated the Works of King Iames into Latine, and impro∣ved his greatness to do good Offices therewith. He dyed Anno Dom. 1618. AEtat. 49. and lyeth buried within his fair Monument, within his fairer, I mean a goodly Tomb in the Church of Bath, which oweth its well-being and beauty to his Mu∣nificence. King Iames cast his eye upon him at Hinchingbrook (where the University of Cambridge met him as he came from Scotland) because he ob∣se••ved him one of those he knew he must oblige, I mean a Gentleman: He set his heart upon him at Court, because he found him one he intended to employ, I mean a Scholar. He was the onely man of all the Doctors he conversed with there, and the onely man of all the Bishops he consulted with at White-Hall. His nature inclined him to magnifi∣cence, and his vertue to Thrift; sparing from lesser vanities, what he might expend upon greater enterprizes; never sparing when just designs call∣ed for great charge. Grateful he was to his follow∣ers, though not prodigal: Good men choose rather to be loved for their benefits to the Community, than those to private persons: His understand∣ing was as large as his heart was honest, compre∣hensive both of men and things; even those things that were either below or besides his care, going not besides his observation; he held a freedom of the will not from an humble•• dependance upon the first cause, but from a fatal compulsion by the

second causes, nec truncos nec Sacrilegos, abhorring to make that noble creature Man created by God after his own Image, to be the Governour of the Universe, Lord and Master of the Creatures should be no more than the man in the beginning of Almanacks, who is placed immoveable in the midst of the 12 Signs, as so many second causes, if he offer to stir, Aries is over his head ready to push him; and Taurus to goar him in the Neck, &c.

He anticipated his age with his worth, and died at fourscore in merit, when not fifty in years; filling his time not with dayes but with vertues so early, as seemed rather innate than acquired: For which he was so popular in the Countrey, as well as favoured at Court; that a corpulent Officer of Bath-Church being appointed on the day of his Burial to keep the doors, entred on his employ∣ment in the morning, but was buried himself be∣fore night, and before the Bishop's body was put in the ground; because being bruised to death by the pressing in of people, his Corps required speedy in∣terment.— In those days the Plebs concurred with the King in their affections to, because they su••mit••ed to him in their choice of persons; for then wisdom was thought to dwell in the Head, and good Folks thought their Soveraign wiser 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••hemselves.

Observations on the Life of Sir Edm. Anderson.

SIr Edmund Anderson was born a younger bro∣ther of a Gentile Extract at Flixborough in Lincolnshire, and bred in the inner Temple. I have been informed that his Father left him a thousand pounds for his portion, which this our Sir Edmund multiplyed into many, by his great pro∣ficiency in the Common-Law, being made the 24th of Queen Elizabeth Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas. When Secretary Davison was sentenced in the Star-Chamber for the business of the Queen of Scots, Judge Anderson said of him, that therein he had done * 1.14 justum non juste; and so acquitting him of all malice, censured him with the rest of his indiscretion. When H. Cuffe was arraigned about the rising of the Earl of Essex, and when Sir Edward Coke the Queens Solicitor opposed him, and the other answered Syllogistically, our Ander∣son (sitting there as a Judge of Law, not Logick) checked both Pleader and Prisoner, ob stolido•• syllo∣gismos, for their foolish Syllogismes, appointing the former to press the Statute of Edward the third.* 1.15 He died in the third of King Iames, leaving great Estates to several sons. He was a pure Legist, that had little skil in the affairs of the world, always al∣ledging a decisive Case or Statute on any matter or question, without any regard to the decency, or respect to be had towards a State, or Government, and without that account of a moderate interpre∣tation

some circumstances of things require, being so much the less useful as he was incompliant, and one whom none addre••sed to, because, as one ob∣serves of Cardinal Corrado; Such think they do in same manner sacrifice themselves, when they do but in the ••e st••••ct against their own opinions, to do a man a little p••e••sure. There are a kind of honest men of good conscience, whose capacities being narrow, uncertain private resolutions, inconsistent with publick interest; who may for me pass for good men, but shall never be censed or registred for good Cit••ze••s; because when streight-laced and short apprehensions are resolved into conscience and m••ximes, those men are obliged to be so obstinate as ••o change or remit nothing of their first resolu∣tions, how unreasonable soever in themselves, or dangerous in the consequence. State-policy is wholly involved in matter and circumstances of time, place, and persons; not capable of such exact rules as Geometry, Arithmetick, and other Sciences, whose subject is abstracted from matter; he who ••••ss••••geth State-affairs by general rules, will quickly ruine both himself and those who a••e committed to his government; the quintessence of policy doth consist in the dexterous and skilful ap∣plication of general rules to the subject matter: co•• of the great ends of policy and government, is the creating a mutual confidence amongst men; and to ••llay those distracting jealousies grounded ••n an universal suspicion of humane nature, much like the good Womans fear that the Log would ••••••p out o•• the fire, and knock out the brains of her Child) which have no other use, than the beget∣••••g 〈…〉〈…〉rp••tu••l v••xatio••s, the discouragement of

free Trade and Converse; a teaching of them who are suspected often to do worse than they ima∣gined, and the creating of sedition and troubles.

Observations on the Life of Sir Tho∣mas Bodley, by himself.

1. I Was born at Exiter in Devonshire, March 2. 1544. descended both by Father and Mother of worshipful Parents. My Father in the time of Q••een Mary, being noted and known to be an enemy to Popery, wa•• so cruelly threatned and so narrowly observed, by those that maliced his Re∣ligion, that for the safeguard of himself and my Mother, who was wholly affected as my Fa∣ther, he knew no way so secure as so flye into Ge••∣many.

2. My Father fixed his abode in the City of Ge∣neva; where, as far as I remember, the English Church consisted of some hundred persons. I was at that time of twelve years of age, but through my Fathers cost and care, sufficiently instructed to become an Auditor of Cheval••erius in Hebrew, of Bernaldus in Greek, of Calvin and Bez•• in Divi∣nity, and of some other Professors in that Univ••r∣sity (which was newly then erected) besides my domestick Teachers in the house of Phili••erius S••∣raceaus, a famous•• Physitian in that City, wi••h whom I was boarded, w••ere Rober••us Constanti∣nus, that made the Greek Lexicon, read Homer to me.

3. In the first of Queen Elizabeth, my Father returned, and setled his dwelling in the City of London. It was not long after, that I was sent a∣way from thence to the University of Oxford, re∣commended to the teaching and tuition of Doctor Humphrey. In the year 1563. I took the degree of Batchellor of Arts; within which year I was cho∣sen Probationer of Merton Colledge, and the next year ens••ing admitted Fellow. Afterwards, in the year 1565, by special perswa••sion of some of my Fellow••, and for my private exercise, I undertook the publick reading of a Greek Lecture in the same Colledge-Hall, without requiring or expect∣ing any stipend for it: Nevertheless it pleased the Fellowship of their own accord to allow me soon after four marks by the year, and ever since to con∣tinue the Lecture to that Colledge.

4. In the year 1566, I proceeded Master of Arts, and read for that year in the School-streets natural Philosophy. After which time, within less than three years space, I was won by intreaty of my best affected friends to stand for the Proc••orship, to which I and my Colleague were quietly elected in the year 1569, without any competition or coun∣ter-suit of any other. After this for a long time, I supplied the Office of University-Oratour, and bestowed my time in the study of sundry faculties, without any inclination to profess any one above the rest; insomuch as at last I waxed desirous to tra∣vel beyond the Seas, for attaining to the knowledge of some special modern Tongues, and for the en∣crease of my experience in the managing of affairs; being wholly then addicted to employ my self and all my cares in the publick service of the State.

5. After my return, in the year 1585, I was employed by the Queen to the King of Denmark, and to the German Princes: Next, to Henry the third, King of France: After this, in 88, for the better conduct of her Highness Affairs in the Pro∣vinces United, I was thought a fit person to reside in those parts, and was sent thereupon to the Hague in Holland; where, according to the Con∣tract that had formerly pass'd between her High∣ness and the States, I was admitted for one of their Council of Estate, taking place in their As∣semblies next to Count Maurice, and yielding my suffrage in all that was proposed. During all that time, what approbation was given of my painful endeavours by the Queen, by the Lords in England, by the States of the Countrey there, and by all the English Soldiery, I refer it to be notified by some others Relation.

6. I received from her Majesty many comforta∣ble Letters of her gracious acceptance of my dili∣gence and care: and among the Lords of the Coun∣cil had no man more to friend, then was the Lord Treasurer Burleigh. For when occasion had been offered of declaring his conceit as touching my ser∣vice, he would always tell the Queen (which I received from her self and some other Ear-witnes∣ses) that there was not any man in England so meet as my self to undergo the Office of the Secretary. And sithence his son, the present Lord Treasurer hath signified unto me in private conference, that when his Father first intended to advance him to that place, his purpose was withal to make me his Colleague: But that the daily provocations of the Earl of Essex were so bitter and sharp against him,

and his comparisons so odious when he put us in a balance, as he thought thereupon he had very great reason to use his best means, to put any man out of hope of raising his fortune, whom the Earl with such violence, to his extream prejudice, had en∣deavoured to dignifie.

7. When I had well considered, how ill it did concur with my natural disposition, to become or to be counted either a stickler or partaker in any publick faction; how well I was able, by Gods good blessing, to live of my self, if I could be contented with a competent livelihood; I resolved thereupon to possess my soul in peace all the residue of my days, to take my farewel of State-employments, and so to retire me from the Court.

8. Now although after this, by her Majesties direction, I was often called to the Court, by the now Lord Treasurer, then Secretary, and requi∣red by him, and also divers times s••nce, by order from the King, to serve as Ambassador in France, and to ••egotiate in other very honourable employ∣ments, yet I would not be removed from my for∣mer final resolution; but have continued at home my retired course of ••••fe, which is now meth••nks to me as the greatest preferment the State can afford.

9. This I must confess of my self, that though I did never repent me yet of my often refusals of ho∣nourable offer••, in respect of en••iching my private Estate; yet somewhat more of late I have blamed my sel•• and my nice••y that way, for the love that I bear to my Reverend Mother the University of Oxford, and to the advancement of her good by such kind of means as I have since undertaken.

10. Having examined what course I might take, I concluded at the last to set up my staffe at the Li∣brary door; being throughly perswaded, that in my solitude and surcease from the Common-wealth affairs, I could not busie my self to better purpose then by reducing that place (which then in every part lay ruined and waste) to the publick use of Students:

11. For the effecting whereof, I found my self furnished in a competent proportion, of such four kinds of aids, as unlesse I had them all, there was no hope of good success. For without some kind of knowledge, as well in the learned modern Tongues, as in sundry other sorts of Scholastical literature; without some purse-ability to go through with the charge; without very great store of honourable friends to further the design, and without special good leisure to follow such a work, it could but have proved a vain attempt, and inconsiderate.

12. But how well I have sped in all my endea∣vours, and how full provision I have made for the benefit and ease of all frequenters of the Library; that which I have already performed in sight; that besides, which I have given for the maintenance of it; and that which hereafter I purpose to add, by way of enlargement to that place (for the pro∣ject is cast, and whether I live or dye, it shall be, God ••illing, put in full execution) will testifie so truly and abundantly for me, as I need not to be the publisher of the dignity and worth of mine own institution. Written with mine own band, Anno 1609. Decemb. 15.

Observations on the Life of Henry Vere Earl of Oxford.

HEnry Vere was son of Edward Vere, the se∣venteenth Earl of Oxford, and Anne Trentham his Lady; whose principal habitation (the rest of his patrimony being then wasted) was at Heningham-Castle in Essex: A vigorous Gentleman, full of courage and resolution, and the last Lord Chamberlain of England of this Family. His sturdy nature would not bow to Court-compliants, who would maintain what he spake, speak what he thought, think what he apprehended true and just, though some∣times dangerous, and distastful. Once he came into Court with a great milk white feather about his hat, which then was somewhat unusual, save that a person of his merit might make a fashion. The Reader may guess the Lord who said to him in some jeer, My Lord, you wear a very fair Fea∣ther: It's true (said the Earl) and if you mark it, there is ne're a Taint in it. Indeed his Fami∣ly was ever loyal unto the crown, deserving their Motto,

Vero nil Verius.

His predecessors had not been more implacable enemies to Spain in the Low-Countries, than he was at Whi••e-Hall, backing those arguments against the Match stoutly in the Presence-Cham∣ber, that Doctor Hackwel had urged zealously in

the Pulpit; and as resolutely suffering imprison∣ment for the one, as the Doctor did suspension for the ot••er; declaring himself as freely against the Agent Gondomar, as against his business, the Mar∣riage: For chancing to meet Gon••omar at an En∣tertainment, the Don accosted him with high Complements, vowing; That amongst all the Nobi∣lity of England, there was none he had tendered his service to with more sincerity than to his Lordship, though hitherto such his unhappiness, that his affections were not accepted according to his integrity that tendered them. It seems (replyed the Earl of Oxford) that your Lordship hath good leisure, when stooping in your thoughts to one so inconsiderable as my self, whose whole life hath af∣forded but two things memorable therein. It is your Lordships modesty (returned the Spaniard) to under∣value your self, whilest we the spectators of your Honours deserts, make a true and impartial estimate thereof; hundreds of memorables have met in your Lordships life: But, good my Lord, what are those two signal things more conspicu••us than all the rest? They are these two (said the Earl) I was born in the year 88, and chri∣stened on the fifth of November.

Neither was he a more inveterate enemy to the Church of Rome, than a cordial friend to that of England; for presenting one Mr. Copinger to Laneham, he added, to try him, He would pay no t••thes of his Park: Mr. Copinger desired again to resign it to his Lordship, rather than by such sinful gratitude to betray the rights of the Church.— Well, if you be of that mind (said the Earl) than take the tythes; I scorn that my Estate should swell with Church-goods.

Going over one of the four English Colonels in∣to the Low-Countries, and endeavouring to raise the siege of Breda, he so over-heated himsel•• with Marching, Fighting and vexing (the Design not succeeding) that ••e dyed after, Anno Dom. 16— He married Diana, one of the Co-heirs of William Earl of Exeter, (afterwards to Edward Earl of El∣gin) by whom he left no Issue.

Observations on the Life of Sir Fran∣cis Vere.

SIr Francis Vere (Governour of B••il and Ports∣mouth) was of the ancient, and of the m••st noble extract of the Earls of Oxford; and it may be a question, w••ether the Nobility of his house, or the honour of his Achievements might most commend him, who brought as much glory to his name, as he received honour from it: He was amongst his Queens Sword-men inferiour to none, but superiour to many: He lived oftner in the Camp, than Court: but when his pleasure drew him thither, no man had m••re of the Queens favour, and none less envied. He was a Sol∣••ier of great w••rth, and commanded thirty years in the service of the States, and twenty years over the Eng∣lish in Chief as the Queens General; and he that had seen the Bat••el of Newport, might there best have t••ken him and his nob••e Brother the Lord of Tilb••ry to the life. They report that the Queen as she loved Martial men, would court this Gen∣tleman as soon as he appeared in her presence; for he seldom troubled it with the noise and alarms

of supplication; his way was another sort of under∣mining, as resolved in the Court as in the Camp, as well to justifie his * 1.16 Patron, as to serve her Maje∣sty, telling her the plain truth more sincerely than any man; choosing (as he said) rather to fall by the malice of his enemies, than be guilty of Ingrati∣tude to his friends: Yea, and when he sued for the government of Portsmouth, and some Grandees a 1.17 objected, that that place was always bestowed on Noblemen, he answered; There were none ennobled but by their Princes favour, and the same way he took.

The Veres compared. Veri scipiadae, Duo fulmina belli.

SIr Francis and Sir Horace Ver••, sons of Ieffery Vere Esquire, who was son of Iohn Vere, the fifteenth Earl of Oxford; We will first consider severally, and then compare joyntly, to see how their Actions and Arms performed, what their birth and bloud promised.

SIr Fran. was of a fiery spirit & rigid nature, undaunted in all danger, not overvaluing the price of mens lives to purchase a victory therewith. He served on the Scene of all Christendom where War was acted. One Master∣piece of his valour was at the Battel of New∣port, when his ragged Re∣giment (so were the English-men called, from their ragged Cloathes) helped to make all whole, or else all had been lost.

Another was, when for three years he de∣fended Ostend against a strong and numerous Army, surrendring it at last a bare Skeleton to the King of Spain, who paid more years purchase for it, than probably the World would endure. He dy∣ed in the beginning of the Reign of K. Iames, about the year of our Lord, 16—

SIr Horace had more meekness, & as much valour as his brother; so pious that he first made peace with God, before he went to war with man One of an excellent tem∣per; it being true of him what is said of the Caspi∣an Sea, that it doth never ebb nor flow; observing a constant tenor, neither elated nor depressed with sucess. Had one seen him returning from a vi∣ctory, he would by his si∣lence have suspected that he had lost the day; and had he beheld him in a retreat, he would have collected him a Conque∣ror, by the cheerfulness of his spirit. He was the first Baron of K. Charles his Creation. Some years after, coming to Court, he fell suddenly sick and speechless, so that he died afore night, Anno Dom. 163... No doubt he was well prepared for death, seeing such his vigilan∣cy, that never any enemy surprised him in his Quarters.

Now to compare them together (such their E∣minency, that they would hardly be parallel'd by any but themselves:) Sir Francis was the elder Brother, Sir Horace lived to be the elder man. Sir Francis was more feared, Sir Horace more lo∣ved by the Soldiery: The former in Martial Disci∣pline was oftentimes Rigidus ad ruinam, the latter

seldome exceeded ad terrorem. Sir Francis left none, Sir Horace no Male-Issue, whose four Co-Heirs are since Matched into honourable Families. Both lived in War, much honoured; dyed in peace, much lamented.

What is a great question among all Martial men, was so between these Brethren; whether to repair a reputation ruined by some infamous disgrace, and the honour abused by some notori∣ous loss, the General ought to oppose the for∣tune that oppresseth him, and hazard what re∣mains, to recover what is lost? Sir Francis was of opinion, That though it's not the interest of a supream Prince, yet it is the concern of a subordinate Com∣mander to support his credit at the rate of his Army. But Sir Horace was never for sacrificing the whole for the advancing of any part, or of many for the humouring of one; but chose rather to break the impetuosity of his misfortunes by yielding to them, and rather recover both himself and his success by a prudent retreat, than lose both in an obstinate misadventure.—It being far more eligible to suffer in the imaginary interest of repute•• than that real one of strength; though appearances are yet so use∣ful, that dexterously to manage the reputation of Affairs, is to imprint in men a great opinion of vertue and fortune, to enhance successes, and raise that respect and confidence that seldom fall to the share of reservation and fear. But apart from that too much caution that betrayeth, and over∣much rashness that hazardeth our fortunes, both these Heroes were very choice in the places of their Engagements; for when all the Generals before the Battel of Newport were for quitting the upper

Downs, Sir Francis Vere well knowing how much it imported the business of the day to hold a place of such advantage, perswaded Count Maurice rather to expect the Enemy in that ground, than attaque him in a worse; wherein as his opinion prevailed, so all that were present, were Eye∣witnesses both of the truth of his conjecture, and the soundness of his judgement: For the Enemy, as he said, did not long gaze upon them; but charging up the hills, were beaten back so effectu∣ally, that our men had the excution of them for half a mile; which was no small advantage to the fortune of that day.

Neither were they less observant of their time, that Mother of Action, than their place; neither hasty nor slow to manage an opportunity that is neither often or long the same; — or of the or∣der of their Army than both, whereof each part assi∣sted the other at Newport, and elsewhere so read••ly, that their shouts and charges equally amazed their Friends and Enemies.

The Reliefs of Rhingbergh were actions of great resolution, ready dispatch, a watchful circum∣spection, and good pursuit: The succour of Lithen∣hooven was a performance of great and mature de∣liberation; the surprize of Zutphen by young Sol∣diers in womens apparel, was a piece of service of many particular stratagems; and the Siege of Da∣venter of as much sage advice.—All instances of the wonders that courage can do when wise, valour when sober, a passion when rational, and a great spirit when advised.

Observations on the Life of Richard Cosin, LL. D.

RIchard Cosin, LL. D. (one of the greatest Civilians our Nation bred, the grand Champion of Episcopacy, was (amongst all the Countreys of England) born in the Bishopri••k of Durham. His Father was a person of Quality; a Captain of a Company at Muscleborough-Field, whence his valour returned with victory and wealth; when crossing the River Tweed [O the un∣certainty of all earthly happiness!] he was drowned therein, to the great loss of his son Richard; and greater, because he was not sensible thereof, as left an Infant in the Cradle. His Mother afterwards married one Mr. Medow, a York-shire Gentleman, who bred this his Son-in-law at a School at Skipton upon Cr••ven; wherein such was his proficiency, that before he was twelve years old (little less then a wonder to me, in that age, from so far a Coun∣trey) he was admitted into Trinity-Colledge in Cam∣bridge. Some of his friends in Queens-Colledge in that University had a design to fetch him thence, had not Doctor Beaumont prevented the plot, in making him Scholar and Fellow as soon as by his Age, Degree, and the Statutes he was capa∣ble thereof.

He was a general Scholar, Geometrician, Musi∣tian, Physitian, Divine, but chiefly, Civil and Ca∣non Lawyer. By Arch-Bishop Whitgift he was pre∣ferred to be first Chancellor of Worceste••, [in that

age a place non tam gratiosus quam negotiosu••] and af∣terwards Dean of the Arches, wherein he carried himself without giving (though many took) offence at him.

Of these one wrote a Book against him called the Abstract [abstracted, saith my Author, from all Wit, Learning, and Charity] to whom he retur∣ned such an answer in defence of the High-Com∣m••ssion, and Oath Ex Officio, that he put his Adver∣sary to silence.

Others lay to his charge, that he gave many blanck Licences, the common occasion of unlaw∣ful Mar••iages; and the procurer is as bad as the thief, robbing many a Parent of his dear Child thereby. But alwayes malice looks through a multiplying-glasse. Euclio complain∣ed, Intromisis••i sexcentos Coquos,* 1.18 Thou hast let in six hundred Cooks, when there was but two truely told [Antrax and Congrio] so here was but one, which a Fugitive servant stole from a Register to make his private profit thereby. GOD in his sickness granted him his desire which he made in his health; that he might be freed from Torture, which his corpulency did much suspect, bestowing 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 upon him, a sweet and quiet departure. Pious his dying expressions; I de••••re to be dissolved, and to be with Christ, Phil. 1. The wages of sin is death, Rom. 6. Come Lord Iesus, come quickly, Revel. 12. And his last words were these; F••re••el my surviving friends; remember your Mortality, and Eternal life.

He gave forty pounds to the building of a Cham∣ber in Trinity-Colledge, and fifteen pounds per an∣num for the maintenance of two Scholarships

therein: a good gift out of his estate, who left not above fifty pounds a year clear to his Heir: a great argument of his integrity, that he got no more in so gainful a place. Dying at Doctors Commons, he was buried by his own appoint∣ment in Lambeth Church, and Doctor Andrews preached his Funeral-Sermon. Amongst the many Verses made by the University of Cambridge, this (with the allowance of Poetical Licence) came from no bad Fancy.

Magna Deos inter lis est exorta: creatas Horum qui lites dirimit, ille deest Co••inum potiere dii componere tantas Lites, quod vero jure peritus erat.

A most moderate man he was in his own nature, but more earnest in the business of the Church, in the behalf of which he writ many Books of vali∣dity, &c.

It must not be forgotten, that Doctor Barlow (afterwards Bishop of Lincoln) was bred by Do∣ctor Cosin at his charge in his own Family; who in expression of his Thankfulness, wrote this Dr. Co∣sin's Life, out of which most of the aforesaid Cha∣racter hath been taken.

Observations on the Life of the Lord Chief-Iustice Cook.

THis accomplished person was well born at Mileham in Norfolk, of Robert Cook Esquire, and Wini••red Knigh••ly his Wife, and as well bred. 1. When ten years of age at Norwich School. 2. At Trinity-Colledge in Cambridge. 3. After four years University-study, first in Cliffords Inn, and then in the Inner Temple. The first occa∣sion of his Rice, was his stating of the Cooks Case of the Temple so exactly, that all the House who were puzzled with it, admired him; and his pleading it so, that the whole Bench took notice of him. Such his proficiency, that at the end of six years (exceeding early in that strict age) he was call'd to the Bar, and soon after, for three years, chosen Reader in Lyons Inn. Here his learned Le∣cture so spread forth his fame, that crouds of Cli∣ents sued to him for his Counsel; and his own suit was the sooner granted, when tendering his Affe∣ctions in order to Marriage, unto Bridget daughter and Coheir of Iohn Paston Esquire, whose portion moderately estimated, Viis & medis, amounted unto thirty thousand pounds, her vertues not fall∣ing under valuation, and she enriched her Husband with ten Children.

Then began preferment to presse upon him; the City of Norwich choosing him Recorder, the County of Norfolk their Knight for Parliament, the Q••een her Speaker therein, as also her Solicitor

and Attorney. King Iames honoured him with Knighthood, and made him Chief-Justice, first of the Common-Pleas, then of the Kings-Bench. Thus beginning on a good bottom left him by his Father, marrying a Wife of extraordinary wealth; having at the first great and gainful practice, afterwards many and profitable Offices, being provident to choose ••y••••d penny worths in Purchases, leading a thrifty e••d••, living to a great age during flourishing and peac••••ble times (born as much after the per∣secution under Q. Mary, as dying before our Civil Wars) no wonder if he advanced to a fair estate, so that all his sons might seem elder brethren, by the large possessions left unto them.

Some falsely character him a back-friend to the Church and Clergy, being a grand Benefactor to the Church of Norwich, who gratefully under their publick Seal honoured him with this ensuing Te∣stimony.

Edwardus Coke Armiger, saepius & in multis difficillimis Negotiis Ecclesiae nostrae auxiliatus est, & Nuper eandem contra Templorum Helluones, qui Dominia, Ma∣nerìa & Haereditamenta nostra devorare sub Titulo obscuro (Concelatum dicunt) sponte suâ nobis insciis, & sine mercede ullâ legitimè tutatus est; atque eandem suam nostri Defensionem in perpetuam tan∣tae rei memoriam, & posterorum gratiâ, (si opus fuerit) magna cum industria & scri∣ptis redegit, & Nostrae Ecclesiae donavit.

As for the many Benefices in his own Patronage, he freely gave them to worthy men, being wont to say in his Law-language, That he would have Church-Livings pass by Livery and Seisin, not Bargain and Sale.

He was our English Trebonianus, very famous for his Comments on Littleton and our Common-Law. 1638. A Parliament was call'•••• ••••nd the Court party was jealous of Sir Edwar•• ••e••ctivity against them, as who had not digested 〈◊〉〈◊〉 discon∣tentments as he had done the Law. Hereupon to prevent his Election as a Member, he was confined to Buckinghamshire as a Sheriff.

He scrupled to take the Oath, pretending many things against it, and particularly that the Sheriff is bound thereby to prosecute Lollards, wherein the best Christians may be included.

It was answered; That he had often seen the Oath given to others without any regret, and knew full well that Lollard in the modern sense imported the opposers of the present Religion, as established by Law in the Land.

No excuses would serve his turn, but he must undertake that O••f••ce: However his friends beheld it as an injurious degradation of him, who had been Lord Chief-Justice, to attend on the Judges at the Assizes.

Five sorts of people he used to fore••design to misery and poverty; Chymists, Monopolizers, Concealers, Promoters, and Rhyming Poets. For three things he would give God solemn thanks; That he never gave his body to Physick, nor his heart to cruelty, ••or his hand to corruption. In three things he did much applaud his own success;

In his fair fortune with his Wife, in his happy stu∣dy of the Laws, and in his free coming by all his Offices, nec prece, nec pretio, neither begging nor bribing for Preferment.

His parts were admirable: he had a deep Judg∣ment, faithful Memory, active Fancy, and the Jewel of his mind was put into a fair Case, a beau∣tiful body with a comely countenance: A case, which he did wipe and keep clean, delighting in good Cloaths, well worn, and being wont to say, That the outward neatness of our bodies, might be a Monitor of purity to our souls.

In his Pleadings, Discourse, and Judgements, he declined all Circumlocutions, usually saying, The matter lyes in a little Room * 1.19. In all Places, Callings, and Jurisdictions, he commended Modesty and Sobriety within their boundaries, saying, If a Ri∣ver swelleth beyond the banks, it loseth its own Chan∣nel.

If any adverse party crossed him, he would pati∣ently reply, If another punisheth me, I will not punish my self. In the highest Term of Business he made Vacation to himself at his Table; and would never be perswaded privately to retract what he had pub∣lickly adjudged, professing, He was •• Iudge in a Court, not in a Chamber. He was wont to say, No wise man would do that in prosperity, whereof he should repent in adversity. His Motto was, Prudens qui Patiens; and his practice was accordingly, e∣specially after he fell into the disfavour of King Iames, when he did Frui suo Infortunio, and im∣proved his loss to his advantage. He triumphed in his own Innocency, that he had done nothing illegally; calling to mind the Motto which he gave

in his Rings when made Sergeant, Lex est tutissima Classis, The Law is the safest Helmet. And now he had leisure to peruse what formerly he had written, even thirty Books with his own hand, most pleasing himself with a Manual, which he called VADE MECUM, from whence at one view he took a prospect of his Life past, having noted therein most Remarkables. His most learned and laborious Works on the Laws will last to be admired by the Judicious Posterity, whilest Fame hath a Trum∣pet left her, and any breath to blow therein. His judgement lately passed for an Oracle in Law; and since the credit thereof hath causelesly been questi∣oned, the wonder is not great. If the Prophet himself, living in an incredulous Age, found cause to complain, Who hath believed our report? it need not seem strange that our licentious Times have afforded some to shake the Authenticalness of the Reports of any earthly Judge.

He constantly had Prayers said in his own house, and charitably relieved the Poor with his constant Almes. The Foundation of Sutton's Hospital (when indeed but a Foundation) had been ruined before it was raised, and crush'd by some Courtiers in the hatching thereof, had not his great care preser∣ved the same. The Free-School at The••ford was sup∣ported in its being, by his assistance; and he founded a School on his cost at Godrick in Norfolk.

It must not be forgotten, that Doctor Whitgift afterward Arch-Bishop of Canterbury, sent unto his Pupil when the Queen's Attorney, a fair new Testament, with this Message: He had long enough studied Common Law, now let him study the Law of God.

When he was under a cloud at Court, and out∣ed of his Judges place, the lands belonging to the Church of Norwich, which formerly he had so in∣dustriously recovered and setled thereon, were a∣gain called into question, being begged by a Peer. Sir Edward desired him to desist, telling him, that otherwise he would put on his Gown and Cap, and come into Westminster-Hall once again, and plead there in any Court in justification of what he had done. He died at Stoke-Poges in Buckingham-shire, on Wednesday the third of September, being the 83 of age, whose last words were these, Thy Kingdom c••me, thy Will be done.

The infirmities of this Judge, as my Lord BACON recited them in a Letter to him, were these:

• 1. That he delighted to speak more than hear.
• 2. That he would run out of his Profession; and as he observed of Divines, so it was observed of him, none erred worse out of his element.
• 3. That he conversed with Books rather than Men, and onely with such men that he spake to as Scholars, rather than treated as friends.
• 4. That he obtruded those things as Novelties that were stale.
• 5. That he would jest on men in place, and insult on men in misery.
• 6. That he made the Law lean too much to his opinion.
• 7. That his Tenants in Norfolk were hardly used; and that though he had ten thousand pounds per an. he relieved not the poor.
• ...

• 8. That in his last proceedings against Somerset, he was too open and dilatory, giving too much advantage, and breaking out to some unadvised ex∣pressions.
• 9. That he stood out against Power; for which, and other failures, he was dismissed the Council-board with this expression from King Iames, That he was the fittest instrument to serve a Tyrant.

Indeed he had some projects for the Revenue, and looked for the Treasury, when he was abso∣lutely cast off; though he made such shift, that throw him where you would (as King Iames said) he fell upon his legs.

Observations on the Life of Sir Ralph Winwood.

SIr Ralph Winwood was a Gentleman well seen in most Affairs, but most expert in matters of Trade and War; for he was first a Soldier, and then an Agent in the Netherlands, where he re∣monstrated against Vorstius learnedly and reso∣lutely, representing as well his Masters parts as his power: It was the very guize of that time to be learned; the wits of it were so excellent, the helps and assistants of it were so great; Printing was so common; the world (by Navigation) so open; great experiments so disclosed; the leisure of men so much, the age was so peaceable; and his Ma∣jesty, after whom all writ, so knowing.

When the Earl of Somerset was made Chamber∣lain by his Majesty in his Fathers place, Sir Ralph Winwood was by the Queen made Secretary in his; succeeding him in his Office, but exceeding him in his success (Fortune may begin any mans greatness, but Vertue must continue it) for this Favourite ta∣king upon him to over-rule Winwood, Winwood makes it his business to overthrow him; to which pur∣pose his Agents discover some secrets abroad (you may understand more of England at Amsterdam, than at London) and he useth his Arts at home; for Mr. Vil••iexs being now brought to Court, when others were for raising him by interest, Sir Ralph was for advancing him with Compliance—a Com∣pliance, as he said, that must either supple or break his Adversaries, and either way ruine them.—Ac∣cordingly Sir George is directed to offer his service to the Earl of Somerset; that Earl fatally tells him, He would have none of his service, but would break his Design.—These words coming so cross to the Kings inclination, and the Court's plot, provoked all per∣sons to look further into Sir Ralph Winwood's In∣telligence concerning Sir Tho. Overbury's death. Now mens weaknesses and faults are best known by their enemies, their vertues and abilities from their friends; their customes and times from their servants; their conceits and opinions from their familiars, to whom they are least masked. To all these he applyeth himself, until he had discover∣ed as much of the practices concerning Overbury, as might humble the Earl; and as much corruption in the conveyance of publick money to the build∣ing of Audley-End, as might displace his Father. An Apothecaries boy gives the first, and a servant

that carried the money, the second, both whom he surprized with the Spanish proverb; Di mentura, y sacaras verdad: Tell a lye, and find a truth. In∣deed the natures and dispositions, the conditions and necessities, the factions and combinations, the animosities and discontents; the ends and designs of most people were clear and transparent to this watchful man's intelligence and observation, who could do more with King Iames by working on his fear, than others by gratifying his pleasure.

When I observe how close and silent he was at the Council-Table, it puts me in mind of the man that gave this reason why he was silent in a Treaty and Conference: Because (said he) the Enemy might know, that as there are many here that can speak, so here is one that can hold his peace.

Observations on the Life of Sir Fran∣cis Bacon.

SIr Francis was born where we are made men, bred where we are made States-men; being equally happy in the quickness of the City, and politeness of the Court: He had a large mind from his Father, and great abilities from his Mo∣ther; his parts improved more than his years: his great, fixed, and methodical memory, his solid judgement, his quick fancy, his ready expression, gave high assurance of that profound and universal knowledge and comprehension of things which then rendered him the observation of great and wise men, and afterwards the wonder of all. The

great Queen was as much taken with his witty dis∣courses when a School-boy, as with his grave O∣racles when her Counsel learned. He was a Cour∣tier from his Cradle to his Grave, sucking in ex∣perience with his milk, being inured to policy as early as to his Grammar: Royal Maximes were his Sententia Puerilis; and he never saw any thing that was not noble and becoming. The Queen called him her young Lord Keeper, for his grave ingenuity at seven years of age; and he could tell her Majesty he was two years a 1.20 younger, than her happy Reign. At twelve, his industry was above the capacity, and his mind above the reach of his Contemporaries: A prodigy of parts he must be, who was begot by wise Sir Nicholas Bacon, born of the accomplished Mrs. Anne Cook, daughter to Sir Anthony Cook, King Edward the 6••hs. Tutor, a good Grecian and Lati∣nist, and bred at Trinity-Colledge, under the wise, learned, and pious Doctor Whitgift. His strong observations at Court, his steady course of study in the University, must be improved for State-business, by a well-contrived Travel abroad: where his conversation was so obliging, his way so inquisitive, his prudence so eminent, that he was Sir Amie Paulet's Agent between the Jun∣cto of France and the Queen of England: He al∣layed the solidity of England with the Ayre of France, until his own Affairs and the Kingdoms service called him home at his Fathers death to enjoy a younger Brothers estate, and act his part: Policy was his business, the Law was onely his live∣lyhood; yet he was so great a States-man, that you would think he only studied men: so great a Scho∣lar, that you would say, he only studied Books. Such

insight he had in the Law, that he was at thirty her Majesties Advocate, and extraordinary Counsel; such his judgement, that he was the Student of Grayes-Inn's Oracle; being well seen in the grounds and mysteries of the Law, though not experienced in the Cases of the Common Law, while he made that profession his accessary, and not his principal: so generous and affable his disposition, that he was a••l mens love and wonder: He instilled whol∣some precepts of Prudence and Honour to Noble∣men (particularly the Earl of Essex, to whom he was more faithful, than he to himself:) Great prin∣ciples of Arts and Sciences to the learned; noble Maximes of government to Princes, excellent rules of Life to the Populacy. When his great Patron Es∣sex sunk, he was buoyed up by his own steadiness, and native worth, that admitted him to the Qu. own presence, not only to deliver matter of Law, which was his profession, but to debate matters of State, which was his element: his judgement was so eminent, that he could satisfie the greatest; his condescen••ion so humble, that he instructed the meanest: his extraordinary parts, above the model of the age, were feared in Queen Elizabeths time, but employed in King Iames's. Favour he had in her Reign; but Trust only in his. It's dangerous in a factious Age to have my Lord Bacon's parts, or my Lord of Essex his favour. Exact was his corre∣spondence abroad and at home; constant his Let∣ters, frequent his Visits, great his Obligations, moderate and temperate his Inclination; peace∣able, humble, and submissive his mind; complying and yielding, his temper: In Queen Elizabeths time, when he could not rise by the publick way

of service, he did it by that more private of Mar∣riage, with one Alice Barneham, an Alderman's Heiress, and other commendable Improvements; whereby he shewed a great soul could be rich in spight of Fortune, (for his Father dying while he was in France before he had purchased an estate, he designed for him his youngest Son and Darling, he had but a Portion of the money divided among five Brethren, whereby he was in streights till Go∣rambum fell to him by his dearest Brother Mr. An∣thony Bacon's death, a Gentleman of his parts, though not his learning, having nothing either of honour or profit from that Queen, but a reversion of the Register of the Star-Chambers place, worth 1500. a year, which he stay'd for 20 years, saying that it was like another mans ground, buttalling upon his house; which might mend his prospect, but it did not fill his Barn) though it scorned it in point of Honour. In the House of Commons none more popular, (where he was allowed to sit as Member, when Atturney, which is allowed none in that place) none more zealous, none so know∣ing a Patriot: In the house of Lords, none more s••ccessfully serviceable to the Crown: the easie way of Subsidies was his design in Queen Elizabeths time; the union with Scotland was his contrivance in King Iames's.

His make and port was stately, his speech flow∣ing and grave, each word of his falling in its place; the issue of great reason when conceived, and of great prudence when expressed: so great skill he had in observing and contriving of occasions and opportunities, in suiting of Humours, and hitting of Junctures and Flexures of Affairs, that he was

in his time the Master of speech and action, carry∣ing all before him.

The Earl of Salisbury saith, Sir Walter Raw∣leigh, was a good Orator, but a bad Writer; the Earl of Northampton was a good Wri∣ter, but a bad Orator; Sir Francis Bacon excelled in both: Much he said he owed to his Books, more to his innate Principles and No∣tions: When he thought, he said, he aimed more at Connexion than Variety: When he spake, he de∣signed rather the life and vigour of expression, and perspicuity of words, (asking often if the meaning were expressed plainly enough) than the elegancy or order of phrase. His axiome was; Words should wait on things, rather than things on words; and his resolution was, That all affected elegance was below the gravity and majesty of a publick discourse: He rather judged Books and Men, than either read or talked with them.

His Exercises were man-like and healthful, walking and riding; his Meditations cohaerent, every minute of his time improved; his Table temperate and learned, where his great Dis∣courses were the entertainment, and he himself the treat; resolving Cases most satisfactorily, it was observed that he would express another man•• words with great advantage, speaking with liber∣ty and respect to all hearers, amend much the phrase of it though retaining the substance, stating Questions most exactly, relating Histories most prudently, opening great Secrets most clearly, answering Arguments and replying most familiar∣ly, and speaking what he had thorowly weighed and considered most effectually.—All matters and

speeches came from him with advantage; so acute and ready his wit, so faithful his memory, so pe∣netrating his judgment, so searching his head, so large and rational his soul. He drew out of every man he spake with, what he was best for.

My Lord of Salisbury said, he had the clearest prospect of things of any man in his age; and King Iames, by whom he was never reproved in eighteen years, said, That he knew the method of handling Mat∣ters, after a mild and gentle manner: Not ingaging his Master in any rash or grievous courses, insult∣ing over no offender, but carrying it decently and compassionately to the person of the offender, when most severe against the offence. His Religion was rational and sober, his spirit publick, his love to Relations tender, to Friends faithful; to the hope∣ful liberal, to men univerfal, to his very Enemies civil. He lest the best pattern of Government in his actions under one King, and the best princi∣ples of it in the Life of the other. His Essays and History made him the admiration of polite Italy; his Accomplishments, the wonder of France; Mon∣sieur Fiat, the French Ambassador, who called him Father, saying to him, after an earnest desire to see him, That he was an Angel to him, of whom he had heard much, but never saw him. Solid, less dissi∣pable and juicy Meat was his Diet, and Rhubarb infused in Wine before meat his Physick: four hours in the morning he made his own, not by any means to be interrupted: business was his fate, re∣tyrement his inclination. Socrates brought Mora∣lity from Discourse to Practice; and my Lord Bacon brought Philosophy from Speculation to Ex∣perience, Aristot••e whom he disliked at 16 years of

age, not for his person, for he valued him highly; but his way which bred disputations, but not useful things for the benefit of the life of man, continu∣ing in that judgment to his dying day, he said, taught many to dispute, more to wrangle, few to find out Truth, none to manage it according to his principles:—My Lord Bacon was a man singular in every faculty, and eminent in all: His Judg∣ment was solid, yet his memory was a wonder; his Wit was quick, yet his Reason slaid; His In∣vention was happy, yet methodical: and one fault he had, that he was above the age he lived in; above it in his bounties to such as brought him Presents (so remembring that he had been Lord-Chancellor, that he forgot he was but Lord Verulam: Great his understanding, his knowledge was not from Books, though he read much; but from grounds and notions in himself, which he vented with great caution; Dr. Rawley attesting that he saw twelve Copies of the Instauratio Magna revised and amend∣ed year by year till it was published, and great his mind too) above it in his kindness to servants, to whom he had been a better Master, if he had been a worse; and more kind, if he had been less indul∣gent to them. Persons of Quality courted his Ser∣vice. For the first of his Excesses, K. Iames jeered him in his progress to New-market, saying, when he heard he gave ten pounds to one that brought him some Fruit, My Lord, my Lord, this is the way to Beggars-bush. For the second, he reflected upon himself, when he said to his servants as they rose to him in his Hall; Your rise hath been my fall. Though indeed he rather trusted to their honesty, than connived at their falshood; for he did impar∣tial

Justice commonly to both parties, when one servant was in fee with the Plaintiff, and the other with the Defendant. — How well he understood his own time, his Letters, and complyances evidence; than whom none higher in spirit, yet none humbler in his Addresses [The proudest man is most servile.] How little he valued wealth, appeareth, in that when his servants would take money from his Clo∣set, even while he was by, he would laugh, and say, I poor men, that is their portion. How well he kenned the art of Converse, his Essayes discover, a piece (as he observed himself) that of all his Works was most current, for that they come home to mens busi∣ness and bosomes. How far skilled in the Art of Government, the Felicities of Queen Elizabeth, written by him in Latine, ordered by his last Will to be Printed so, but published in English in his resuscitatio by his Amanuensis. Dr. Rawley, his H. 7. War with Spain, Holy War, Elements of the Law, irrefragably demonstrate; and how well seen in all Learning, his Natural History, and Advancement of Learning answerably argue. In a word, how suffi∣cient he was, may be conjectured from this in∣stance, that he had the contrivance of all King Iames his Designs, until the Match with Spain; and that he gave those Directions to a great States∣man * 1.21, which may be his Character, and our con∣clusion. Only be it observed, that though this peerless Lord is much admired by English-men, yet is he more valued by Strangers; distance, as the Historian hath it, diminishing his faults to For∣reigners, while we behold his perfections abated with his failings; which set him as much below pity, as his Place did once above it; Sir Iulius Caesar

(they say) looking upon him as a burden in his Family, and the Lord Brook denying him a bottle of small beer. Though in a Letter to King Iames he thanks him for being that Master to him that had raised and advanced him s••x times in Office; i.e. Councel learned extraordinary, Solicitor and Attorney General, Lord Keeper, and Chancellor, Knight-Lord Verulam, Viscount St. A••ban's, with 1800 l. a y••ar out of the broad Zeal, and Aliena∣tion Off••ce to his dying day, most of which he al∣lowed to his a 1.22 Wife, towards whom he was very bountiful in gifts, bestowing on her a Robe of ho∣nour which she wore while she lived, which was above twenty years after his death. His Religion was like a Philosophers, rational and well ground∣ed as appears by his confession of faith, composed many years before his death, an instance of the truth of his own observation; that a little Philo∣sophy maketh men ap•• to forget God, as attribut∣ing too much to second causes; but depth of Phi∣losophy bringeth a man back again to God; he be∣ing constant at the publick Prayers, frequent at the Sermons and Sacraments of the Church of England, in whose Communion he dyed of a gen∣tle Feaver, accompanied with a choaking defluxion and cold, April 9. being Easter-day 1626. 66th. year of his age, in the Earl of Arundel's house at High-gate near London, being Buried according to his Will at St. Michael's Church in St. Alban's, the onely Church in old Verulam, near his Mother ••nder a white Marble, ••et up by Sir Tho. Meauty, Secretary to his Lordship, and Clerk of the Coun∣cel to King Iames and King Charles, whereon he is drawn in his full Stature studying; with an In∣scription

by Sir Henry Wotton. He had one pecu∣liar temper of body, that he fainted alwayes at an Eclipse of the Moon, though he knew not of it, and considered it not. His Receipt for the Gout which eased him in two hours, is at the end of his Natural History. His Rhubarb-draught before meat he liked, because it carryed away the gross humours, not less••ning the spirits as sweating doth.

It was the great effect of his Religion, that as he said (notwithstanding the opportunities he had to be revenged) he neither bred nor fed malice•• saying no worse to the King (who enquired of him what he thought of a great man newly dead, that had not been his friend) than that he would never have made his Majesties estate better, but he was sure he would have kept it from being worse.

And it was the consequence of his great worth, all men applauded him. Fulk Lord Brook, after the perusal of his H. 7th. returned it him with these words: Commend me to my Lord, and bid him take care to get good Paper and Ink, for the work is In∣comparable. Dr. Collins the Kings Professor of Divinity at Cambridge, said when he had read his advancement of Learning, that he found himself in a case to begin his Studies again; as having lost all his former time.

Forreigners crossing the Seas to see him here, and carrying his Picture at length that he might be seen abroad. An Italian writes to the Lord Caven∣dish, since Earl of Devonshire, thus concerning the Lord Bacon; I will expect the new Essays of my Lord Chancellor Bacon, as also his History with a great deal of desire; and whatsoever else he shall compose;

but in particular of his History; I promise my self a thing perfect and singular; especially King Henry the 7th. where he may exercise the talent of his Divine un∣derstanding.

This Lord is more and more known; and his Books here, more and more delighted in; and those men that have more than ordinary know∣ledge in humane affairs, esteem him one of the most capable spirits of this age.

Observations on the Life of the Lord John Digby.

JOhn Lord Digby of Sherborn, and Earl of Bristol, was a younger Son of an ancient Family, long flourishing at Koleshull. To pass by his younger years, (all Children being alike in their Coats) when he had only an Annuity of fif∣ty pounds per annum, only his youth gave preg∣nant hopes of that Eminency, which his mature age did produce. He did ken the Embassador's craft, as well as any in his age, employed by King Iames in several Services to Foreign Princes, reci∣ted in his Patent, as the main motives of the Ho∣nours conferred upon him. But his managing the matchless Match with Spain was his Master-piece, wherein a good (I mean a great) number of State-Traverses were used on both sides: Where if he dealt in Generalities, and did not press Particulars, we may ghess the reason of it from that expression o•• his; I will take care to have my Instructions per∣s••••••, and will pursue them punctually: If he

held Affairs in suspence, that it might not come to a War on our part, it may be he did so with more regard to his Mr. King Iames his inclination, than his own apprehension: If he said; That howsoever the business went, he would make his fortune thereby, it rather argued his weakness that he said so, his sufficiency that he could do so, than his unfaithful∣ness that he did so. This is certain, that he chose rather to come home, and suffer the utmost dis∣pleasure of the King of England, than stay in Spain, and enjoy the highest favour of the King of Spain. He did indeed intercede for some indulgence to the Papists; but it was, because otherwise he could do no good for the Protestants. — But whatever was at the bottom of his Actions, there was reso∣lution and nobleness a top, especially in these actions. 1 Being carried from Village to Village after the King of Spain, without that regard due to his per∣son, or place; he expressed himself so generously, that the Spanish Courtiers trembled; and the King declared, That he would not interrupt his Pleasures with business at Lerma, for any Embassador in the world but the English; nor for any English Embas∣sador but Don Iuan. 2. When impure Scioppius upon his Libel against K. Iames, and Sir Humphrey Bennet's complaint to the Arch-Duke against him, fled to Madrid; my Lord observing that it was im∣possible to have Justice done against him from the Catholique King because of the Jesuites, puts his Cousin George Digby upon cutting him; which he did over his Nose and Mouth wherewith he offended, so that he carried the mark of his Blas∣phemy to his Grave. 3. When he was extraordi∣nary Embassador in Germany, upon his return

by Heidelbergh, observing that Count Mansfield's Army, upon whom depended the fortune of the Palsgrave, was like to disband for want of money, he pawned all his Plate and Jewels to buoy up that sinking Cause for that time. That his spirit was thus great abroad, was his honour; but that it was too great at home, was his unhappiness: for he enga∣ged in a fatal Contrast with the Duke of Bucking∣ham, that hazarded both their safeties, had not this Lord feared the Duke's power (as the Duke this Lord's policy) and so at last it became a drawn Battel betwixt them; yet so, that this Earl lost the love of King Charles, living many years in his dis∣favour: But such as are in a Court-cloud, have commonly the Countreys Sun-shine; and this Peer during his Eclipse, was very popular with most of the Nation. It is seldom seen, if a Favourite once broken at Court, sets up again for himself; the hap (rather than happiness) of this Lord, the King graciously reflecting on him at the beginning of the Long Parliament, as one best able to give him the safest Councel in those dangerous times. But how he incensed the Parliament so far, as to be excepted pardon, I neither do know, nor dare enquire. Sure I am, that after the surrender of Exeter, he went over into France, where he met with that due re∣spect in Foreign, which he missed in his Native Countrey. The worst I wish such, who causelesly suspect him of Popish inclinations (saith my Au∣thor) is, that I may hear from them but half so many strong Arguments for the Protestant Religion, as I heard from him, who was to his commendati∣on a cordial Champion for the Church of England. This Family hath been much talked of this last for∣ty

years; though all that I can say of it is this, that great spirits, large parts, high honours, penned with narrow Estates, seldom bless their owners within moderation, or the places they live in with peace.

Observations on the Life of the Lord Spencer.

HEe was the fifth Knight of his Family, in an immediate succession, well allied and ex∣tracted, being descended from the Spencers, Earls of Gloucester and Winchester. In the first year of the Reign of King Iames, being a moneyed man, he was created Baron of Wormeleiton in the County of Warwick. He had such a ready and quick Wit, that once speaking in Parliament of the valour of their English Ancestors in defending the Liberty of the Nation, returned this Answer to the Earl of Arun∣del, who said unto him, Your Ancestors were then keeping of Sheep; If they kept Sheep, yours were then plotting of Treason. But both of them were at pre∣sent confined; but to the Lord Spencer the Upper-House ordered Reparations, who was first and causelesly provoked. This Lord was also he, who in the first of King Iames was sent (with Sir William Dithick, principal King of Arms) to Frederick Duke of Wirtenbergh, elected into the Order of the Garter, to present and invest him with the Robes and Ornaments thereof; which were ac∣cordingly with great solemnity performed in the Cathedral of Studgard.— And this was the Lord,

that when the Earl of Bristol charged the Duke of Buckingham, started up, and demanded; Is this all you have to say against the Duke? The Earl replyed, Yes my Lord, and I am sorry it is so much. Then quoth the Lord Spencer, If this be all, Ridiculus mus; and so sate down again.

The End of the Observations upon the Lives of the Statesmen and Favourites of England, in the Reign of King Iames.

Notes

• * 1.1

  In his book called, The Declinati∣on of Mo∣narchs.
• * 1.2

  Sir Robert Naunton's Fragmen∣ta.
• a 1.3

  Adver∣sus perdu∣elles.
• a 1.4

  Where he was Brid•• groom.
• a 1.5

  Witness his enter∣tainment at London.
• * 1.6

  H. Hol∣land, p. 39.
• a 1.7

  Doman∣da assai, chen••n Manchera∣poi calare. Proverb. ••ip. apud Insi••. D. 〈…〉〈…〉 de legat••••.
• a 1.8

  Doman∣da assai, chen••n Manchera∣poi calare. Proverb. ••ip. apud Insi••. D. 〈…〉〈…〉 de legat••••.
• * 1.9

  Psa. 104.3.
• a 1.10

  In the life of Richard the second.
• b 1.11

  Sir John Davies in Disc. of I••eland, p. 39, &c.
• * 1.12

  V••re's Comm••n∣taries.
• a 1.13

  T••erefo••e the Yoke is their sup∣porter.
• * 1.14

  Camb∣den Eliz. An. 1587.
• * 1.15

  Idem, Anno 1600.
• * 1.16

  The Earl of Essex.
• a 1.17

  The Lord Norris.
• * 1.18

  Plau. in Aularia.
• * 1.19

  Though some ob∣serve that his digres∣sions mar∣red his re∣pute, and had broke his neck, had he liv∣ed in any Kings reign but K. James's.
• a 1.20

  He was born Jan. 22. 1560. at York-house in the Strand.
• * 1.21

  Vid. Duke of Buck∣ingham's Life.
• a 1.22

  Benedict ••••••unch••m, an Alder∣man of London's Daughter and Co∣heir.