The life of John Williams, Ld. Keeper of the Great Seal, Bp. of Lincoln, and Abp. of York in the reigns of King James and King Charles the First wherein are related several remarkable occurences of those times both in church and state : with an appendix giving a just account of his benefactions to St. John's College in Cambridge / by Ambr. Philips ...

From the Time he settled in Chancellor Egerton's Fa∣mily, till the End of King James's Reign. (Book 2)

PART II. (Book 2)

THE former Part has shew'd you * 1.1 Mr. Williams from his Child∣hood to his Manhood: how hopeful he was in his Youth; and how afterwards those Hopes exceeded what they seem'd to promise: how able he became in Learning; and how creditable and useful a Member he was of his College in particular, and of the whole University in general. I come in the next place to consider him as a rising Man in the World; how he made his Fortunes (as we un∣gratefully express our selves, when all the while it is the Lord's Doing) and how he behav'd himself in them after.

And that we may not confound Cha∣racters, I shall first give you an Ac∣count of him as a Statesman, and as concerned in Civil Affairs during his Prosperity, omitting for the present all that might belong to him as a Clergy Man.

Now or never was his time to look * 1.2 about him. For he had a very fair Opportunity given him, by entring into the Service of so considerable a Man as the Chancellor was, with the Assistance of Providence to raise him∣self; at leastwise to make some Efforts towards it. Therefore as a prudent * 1.3 Man, the first thing he cast in his Mind, was how he might ingratiate himself in the Family; but especially in his Lord's Favour, who he knew was able to reward him. There were at that time in the Family a great many Ladies, and those of Quality, to whom his Address and Behaviour, as well as his Garb, was more courtly than is usual with Scholars. He receiv'd all Strangers with great Courtesie and Civility. And if any Disorders hap∣pen'd amongst the Servants, he inter∣pos'd with the Gravity of a Divine. Thus he had gain'd the Out-works;

and thus far an indifferent Artist might have gone. But to make One's self acceptable to a Man of the Chan∣cellor's Gravity and Judgment, shews something of the like Worth in One's self: So apt are we to be taken with our own Resemblance. The Chaplain therefore approv'd himself to his Lord, not only by his good Preaching, but likewise by the sharp and solid An∣swers he made to such Questions as were cast in by the By at Table, to fathom his Learning and Judgment. For to take a Man unprepar'd and off his Guard, even in little matters, tries his Strength more, than a formal Dis∣pute does, where Warning is given: As, we know, Bills upon sight are never drawn (at least to any purpose) but upon the ablest Men. But what re∣commended him more than all this was, that he understood the References and Petitions, that were sent to his Lord from Oxford, better then all his Ser∣vants, being newly come from Cam∣bridge: And his Opinion was so con∣stantly taken in all those Complaints, that Dr. King (the Bishop of London) would sometimes pleasantly call him the Chancellor of Oxford. To this,

he wars stor'd with Friends in the Courts of the King and Prince, from whom he gather'd Intelligence worth his Master's hearing; no blind Rumours, but Clouds, that at first rising were scarce so big as an Hand, yet portend∣ing mighty Tempests as they fell. Last∣ly, to make him every way accepta∣ble to his Lord, he had pick'd up some Gleanings (in his own modest words) in the Knowledge of the Common-Laws of the Realm. In this the Chan∣cellor * 1.4 gave him Incouragement to proceed; and was so taken with him, that at his leisure hours, both to di∣vert himself and instruct his Chap∣lain he would impart to him the Nar∣ration of some important Causes, that had been debated in Chancery or Star-Chamber. So fortunate was Mr. Wil∣liams to fall under such a Tutor as instructed him in that Bus'ness, to which it pleas'd God after to call him. But neither did he for all this neglect his Studies as a Divine: and Resolu∣tion and Diligence carried him through * 1.5 all. * 1.6

And now he was so far in his Lord's Favour, that he was able by his In∣terest to procure several Livings that

fell into the Chancellor's Presentation, for such as he knew to be able and deserving Scholars; so early did he patronize Merit. And he gave farther Evidences yet of his publick Spirit, when swarms of Scholars came about him, such as were harass'd with tedious and chargeable Law-Suits. If their Cause were good, or if it had a Flaw in it, he would point it out; would shew them where lay the Strength, and where the Weakness; would commend them to faithful Attorneys and able Counsel, work the Officers to an Abate∣ment of Fees, and supply them with Mo∣ney that wanted it. Especially if the Cause concern'd the Title of their Li∣ving, or the payment of their Tithes, he would sweat and bestir himself for his poor Brethren to the utmost of his Vi∣gour. So that under his Lord and Master, he was a zealous and successful Abettor of the Rights of the Clergy in general.

To study the Interest of others so earnestly as wholly to neglect our own, may rather be call'd Simplicity than * 1.7 Honesty; and might sound prettily in a Romance, where Honour is Meat, Drink and Cloathing. But certainly, as the World goes, to trust to the Genero∣sity

of others when we may befriend our selves, is more than is requir'd at our Hands, and much more than Pru∣dence will account for. Therefore Mr. Williams, tho' very mindful of others, was not at the same time unmindful of himself; but grounded himself so deep in his Lordship's Affections, that in about five Years Time (which he liv'd with him) he rais'd himself a plen∣tiful Fortune by the Assistance of that Bounty, which was so far from denying him any thing, that it commonly pre∣vented his Requests; the Politick way of enhancing a Benefit without cost: for a modest and generous Person thinks he pays dear for what he is forced to ask for. But, to be particular, his Patron gave him the Parsonage of Walgrave in Northamptonshire, and by his In∣terest got him the Rectory of Grafton Under-wood, in the same County. He was a Prebendary of the Church of Lincoln, and Residentiary, with the Chantorship of the same; he had a * 1.8 Prebend too in the Minster of Peter∣borough, and in the Churches of Here∣ford and St. David's: and to these, the Chancellor gave him a Sine-Cure in Wales, equal in profits to any of his

other Preferments. By this time I expect my Reader should cry out, Bless me! what a Glut of Preferment is here for one Man! So jealous are we of our own Interest. But when Plenty falls into the possession of a free Heart, 'tis a great Mistake to think we are injur'd, and that too much flows to One. Do we grudge the Sea all those almost infinite Waters, that are perpetually emptying them∣selves into it? And the reason is, be∣cause we know they lye safe there, as in a common Store-house, ready to supply all places that may want. And what Riches fall into a publick Hand, are not his alone, but Every-body's; and all that is proper to him is the great Satisfaction only of Distribu∣tion.

In the Year 1616. in October, the * 1.9 Lord Chancellor, worn out, what with the multitude of Bus'ness, and what with Age, began to decline. And in January his Weakness prevail'd more, insomuch that from that time he admitted scarce any Company, but his Chaplain's. What Bus'ness he had with his Majesty, was com∣mitted to his Trust and Management:

a very considerable Opportunity, which doubtless Mr. Williams improv'd to his own Advantage. The King could not but take Notice of him as often as he brought any Messages to him from his Master: and to be intrusted by so discreet a Man with Secrets of State, was no small Credit to him. And his Majesty thought, that living so long with so great a Statesman, he could not choose but gain considerable Experience himself in such Affairs. These things put together, and added to some advantagious Hints, tending this way before, shew like so many Incidents well prepar'd, to render his following Advancement more pro∣bable: from which the Reader will be able to see, by what Degrees his good Fortune usher'd him into the Court, and at last rais'd him to the greatest Dignities.

On the Fifteenth of March, his * 1.10 Great and Good Patron dy'd in a * 1.11 Good Old Age, and full of Vertuous Fame. His Chaplain mourn'd for him long after, and attended his Body to Cheshire, where he buried him in a Chappel with his Ancestors.

A little before the Day of his Death, the Chancellor call'd Mr. Williams, and told him, That if he wanted Money, he would leave him such a Legacy in his Will, as should furnish him to begin the World like a Gentleman. Sir (says the Chaplain) I kiss your Hands; you have fill'd my Cup full; I am far from want, unless it be of your Lord∣ship's Directions how to live in the World, if I survive you. Well (says the Chancellor) I know you are an expert Workman; take these Tools to work with, they are the best I have. So he gave him some Books and Pa∣pers written all with his own Hand. Dr. Hacket says, he saw the Notes; and * 1.12 that they were that old Sage's Colle∣ctions * 1.13 for the well Ordering the High Court of Parliament, the Court of Chancery, the Star-Chamber, and the Council-Board. So that he had a good Stock to set up with; insomuch that Dr. Hacket does not doubt but that the Marrow of Mr. Williams his Politicks, was drawn from the Lord Egerton's Papers.

The Lord Chancellor Egerton, when * 1.14 he grew weak, had desir'd Leave of his Majesty, to retire, and to have

time to see how Accounts stood be∣tween * 1.15 God and himself. Which be∣ing granted him, the Great Seal of England was next deliver'd to Sir Francis Bacon, on the Seventh of March (according to Stow) An. 1616. He hearing that Mr. Williams, after the Death of his Master, was preparing to go to his Cure at Walgrave, he made him a very civil Offer to con∣tinue with him in that Place, wherein he had serv'd the Lord Egerton be∣fore. He declin'd it tho', but in such * 1.16 an artful and obliging manner, that Bacon did not at all resent it; for they parted very good Friends; and Sir Francis willing to set a Mark of his Favour upon him, made him Justice of the Peace and of the Quorum in Northamptonshire. What should be the reason, why Mr. Williams, a Man that lov'd to be in the Eye of the Pub∣lick, should refuse this Offer, I cann't imagine. Whether he were tired of the City, or whether he saw so far into Bacon, as that he was not like to con∣tinue long undisgrac'd; or lastly, whe∣ther his better Genius prompted him: For, 'tis very likely, had he been his Chaplain, he would hardly have suc∣ceeded

him in his Office, tho' he might; at least so creditably he could not: Because the World, that ever searches deep into the worst side of things, would have been apt to cry out, that the Servant had undermin'd his Lord.

At this time by the Interest of his * 1.17 very good Friend Dr. James Montagu (after Bishop of Winton) he was made Chaplain in Ordinary to his Majesty, attending Yearly at Court in February. And he had his Majesty's Orders to wait upon him in his Great Northern Progress, which was to begin in April following: And the King told him pleasantly, That he might expect the Labourers Penny as soon as they that had serv'd him longer. But the Bishop of Winchester obtain'd of his Majesty, that Mr. Williams might stay behind, to take his Doctor's Degree, and to give fit entertainment to Marcus An∣tonius de Dominis Archbishop of Spa∣lato, who was newly come over into England, and did design to be at Cam∣bridge Commencement, in the next July. Here again we may see how Fortune seem'd to Compliment Mr. Williams with an Opportunity of shewing him∣self: And he never was to appear any

way publickly at Cambridge, but still he brought something about luckily to add to the Splendour of his Perfor∣mance. So at this Commencement in * 1.18 the Year 1617. he was created Doctor. * 1.19 The Questions which he maintain'd for his Degree were, 1. Supremus Magi∣stratus non est excommunicabilis. 2. Sub∣ductio Calicis est mutilatio Sacramenti & Sacerdotii. You will, I make no doubt, prevent me here, and guess that his Treat (as is the Custom of the University upon such occasions) was very costly and sumptuous: but one * 1.20 piece of Address I must not forget; how that the Doctor was at no little cost and pains in sending to the Italian Ordinaries at London, and ransacking the Merchants Stores, for such Deli∣cacies as he thought would relish best with the Archbishop of Spalato: which Dainties it was observ'd that he never took any Notice of, but preferr'd our English Dishes to them.

And now Dr. Williams having ac∣quitted * 1.21 himself honourably both as to his Act, and to the Entertainment he gave to the Archbishop; he retired chearfully to his Rectory of Walgrave. How he lived, and what he did there,

I shall forbear to mention, till I come to speak of him as a Clergy-man. So that at present I will not break the Thread of my Narration, but go on with him directly in his growing For∣tunes, till the End of King James's Reign.

In the Year 1619. he preach'd before * 1.22 the King at Theobalds; his Text taken * 1.23 out of Matth. 11. 8. His Majesty ap∣proving of the Sermon, commanded it to be printed. So that by several Offices and frequent Opportunities, he had now gain'd his Majesty's good Liking. During the time he was at * 1.24 Walgrave, the Deanery of Salisbury fell by the Death of Dr. Gordon, while the King was in his Summer's Progress in the West. A great many stirr'd for it; and for one of the Competitors, and a deserving Scholar too, the Mar∣quess of Buckingham us'd his Interest; but the King putting them all by, sent * 1.25 for Dr. Williams, who could not be heard of in a fortnight, keeping then his Residence at Lincoln, remote from Court. This was the first piece of Preferment for which he was not be∣holding to any, saving the King's own Pleasure; for he had not at that time 〈1 page duplicate〉〈1 page duplicate〉

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so much as a Friend to intercede for him; Death having rob'd him of Dr. Montagu, the only Man about his Ma∣jesty that he depended upon.

Thus we have pass'd over the Be∣ginning or Dawning (as we may call it) of his good Fortune; and he is (you see) in a very likely way of Doing well, as we say when a Man thrives in the World; as tho' Prosperity and Probity were one and the same. Tho' * 1.26 Dr. Williams was now in great Favour * 1.27 with his Majesty, and he lov'd him better than even the Lord Egerton had done; yet if he had any Designs of ad∣vancing himself, it must be effected by that Grand Favourite the Marquess of Buckingham, or not at all. No Man can be so ignorant of the History of those Times, as not to know that he over-rul'd all the King's Affections, and dispos'd of all things for him, even to his very Smiles and his Frowns.

It fell out one time, that the Dr. * 1.28 was at Royston, attending upon his Ma∣jesty, in the Absence of the Marquess. The King abruptly (without any re∣lation to the Discourse then in hand) ask'd him, when he was with Bucking∣ham? Sir (says the Dr.) I have had

no Bus'ness to resort to his Lordship: But (replies the King) wheresoever he is, you must presently go to him on my Message. Which he did accordingly; and the Marquess receiving him cour∣teously, invited him with all Affability to come freely to him upon his own Addresses. He gathering from the Hint * 1.29 his Majesty gave him, that he intended he should seek the Marquess, and do all he could to gain him by all Obser∣vance, from thenceforth resolv'd it.

But why must the Dr. be prompted by the King to seek his own Interest? Were not his Eyes open at that time * 1.30 of Day, and could he not see plainly, without having it pointed out to him, that Buckingham was the King's Dar∣ling? Or did he know all this, but yet wanted Ambition to climb? No; Dr. Williams was a Man, tho' bold and aspi∣ring, yet cautious withall: and you shall hear what dissuaded him from court∣ing the Marquess. One time (says * 1.31 Bishop Hacket) making a Repetition of his former Life to me, when he was under a great Sickness at Bugden, he gave me two Reasons, why he mov'd so slow to the Protection of that great Lord. First, he mightily suspected his

continuance; the Title of a Favourite being so inauspicious in almost all Ex∣amples. And to whom a Man is ob∣lig'd for his Rising, it is expected he should follow his Fortunes, be they good or bad: at least every grateful and generous Spirit will think himself oblig'd to do so. Secondly; he saw * 1.32 his Lordship was very apt to cast a Cloud suddenly upon his Creatures; and rais'd them, as it were, on purpose to have the Pleasure of casting them down after. And from these two weighty Considerations he concluded to give way to others, to seek the Marquess, that might be rash enough to venture. And happy sure had it been for him, had the King's Encou∣ragement never diverted him from his own prudent Resolutions; for it led him through much Prosperity to a great deal of Adversity, and Misery in the End. So true is it, That in any thing we undertake, we cannot so much as guess what will be the final Issue of it: and the safest way the most prudent Man can take, to establish his Happi∣ness (like the wise Man's House upon the Rock) is, after his own honest En∣deavours, to be very well content to

leave the Determining cast to the All∣wise Disposal of Providence: so much of the Stoick ought every Christian to have.

But to proceed: It happen'd well * 1.33* 1.34 for him at this time to shew his Ser∣vices, that the Marquess courted the Lady Katherine Manners, Daughter and only Child surviving to Francis Earl of Rutland. Wilson gives us this * 1.35 Account of the Matter: Buckingham (who was a general Lover) tempts the Earl's only Daughter, carries her to his Lodgings in Whitehall, keeps her there for some time, and then returns her again to her Father: At this the stout old Earl resolves upon Revenge, except he would marry his Daughter, to save her injur'd Honour. Bucking∣ham (that perhaps made it his Design to get the Father's Consent this way, she being the greatest Match in the Kingdom) marries her; after which she was converted to our Church by Dr. White: Thus he. Which in the former part of the Story seems to have something of Truth; if compar'd with Bishop Hacket's Relation. Which is, That the motion being set on foot in the beginning of the Year 1620. was

retarded, by reason of an Affront the Earl took, in thinking that the lusty Woer made his Advances too fast. But however it was, the Earl (it seems) * 1.36 was angry, and the Duke, he had a mind to the Lady. Therefore Dr. Williams took the Opportunity to go between the great Men, to set matters straight on both sides. Now the Earl had a good Opinion of the Dr. for some former Services, and was therefore willing to admit him to discourse the Point fairly. To cut it short, the Dr. brought the Earl about so dextrously with his Art and pleasant Wit, that his Lordship put it into his Hands to draw up all Contract and Conditions for Portion and Jointure. And now * 1.37 the Earl being open-hearted with the Joy and Transport of a good Under∣standing between him and the Mar∣quess; the Dr. nicks the Opportunity, and prevails upon him to settle more upon the Marriage, than the Marquess and his Mother had demanded. Now the Parties were agreed, his Majesty put in his Objection, which must be answer'd, before he would give his Consent. The Lady Katherine had been bred a Papist; and he thought

he could not be too cautious, as times went, how his great Favourite wedded with one of that Perswasion, lest it should raise Jealousies amongst his People. Therefore the King lays his * 1.38 Commands upon Dr. Williams to con∣vert her, or no Wedding should be by his Consent. The Dr. undertakes and performs the Task: so that on the 16^th of May 1620. the Nuptials were celebrated. And the Negotiation of this Match (says Bishop Hacket) the Negotiator told me, was the last Key-Stone, that made the Arch in his Pre∣ferment. But lest this new Convert * 1.39 should slide back into her former Er∣rors, the King orders Dr. Williams to draw up the Elements of Orthodox Religion in a litle Manual for her use; which accordingly he did, and just Twenty Copies were printed with no Name, only By an old Prebend of Windsor. The following Letter (since one of the Copies is not easie to be had) sent to the Marquess with the Book, will be sufficient to inform the Curious of his Method and Design in that little Piece.

My most Noble Lord,

MY most humble Duty and all * 2.1 due Respects remember'd; I have at last, according to his Maje∣sty's Intimation and your Lordship's, made up for my Lady's private use a little Stock, as it were, in Divinity, and divided the same into Three small Treatises. The First, to furnish her how to speak unto GOD by Invoca∣tion: the Second, how to speak unto her self by Meditation: and the Third, how to speak unto those Ro∣manists, that shall oppose her, by way of Answer, and Satisfaction. Prayers are the most necessary for the obtain∣ing, Principles for the augmenting, and Resolutions (in these Days) for the defending of her Faith and Profession. I held these Three in some sort (and more I held not) to have been ne∣cessary. The Prayers I have trans∣lated from Ancient Writers, that her Ladiship may see, we have not coin'd a new Worship or Service of GOD. Of the rest, I receiv'd my best Grounds from his Majesty, and such as, I protest faithfully, I never could read the like in any Author for my

own Satisfaction. If I be out in my Descant upon them, I hope your Lordship will the rather pardon it, because the Book is but private, whereof 20 Copies only are printed, and as many of them to be suppress'd as your Honour shall not command and use. I make bold to send these Books to your Lordship, because I hope they will be more welcome and acceptable to both the great Ladies, coming immediately from your Ho∣nour. I humbly thank your Ho∣nour for affording me this Occasion, to do your Lordship any little Ser∣vice, who am in all affectionate Prayers and best Devotion

Your Honour's true Creature and Beadsman, JOHN WILLIAMS.

From your College at Westminster the 28. of Novemb. 1620.

By the Date of this Letter, you may * 2.2 understand (which I had forgot to tell you before) he was by this time made Dean of Westminster. It was on the * 2.3 12^th of July 1620. that he was Install'd;

the Marquess bestowing it upon him, who at that time was Patron of it, whom the Doctor solicited for it, by the following Letter, dated Mar. 12. 1619.

My most Noble Lord,

I Am an humble Suitor; first, to be * 3.1 acknowledg'd your Servant; and then, that I may be nearer and better able to perform my Desires, to be by your happy Hand transplanted from Salisbury to Westminster, if that Deane∣ry shall prove vacant. I trouble not your Honour for Profit, but only for Conveniency; for being unmarried, and inclining so to continue, I do find that Westminster is fitter by much for that Disposition: and mine own, no∣thing inferior in Value, will be at his Majesty's Collation. If your Ho∣nour be not bent upon an ancienter Servant, I beseech you think upon me. I am true, and so reputed by my former, and by the Grace of GOD will prove no otherwise, to my Second Master. GOD in Heaven bless you as he hath begun: he prays it, who is

Your Honour's poor Beadsman al∣ready ever bound, J. W.

His Removal into this Deanery was * 3.2 the truest Step he had taken as yet: For within a Year after, the Lodgings of the Dean became the House of the * 3.3 Lord Keeper of the Great Seal, and the Palace of the Bishop of Lincoln. Now the Scene fills, and the Plot thickens apace, (to speak with our Play-wrights, since I am representing a Life) Incidents begin to turn thick upon one another, and we shall soon launch him into such an Ocean of Bu∣siness, that it will be difficult for us to carry on our Story, without being lost in Confusion. But yet, why may not we relate as methodically and clearly as he acted, notwithstanding the mul∣tiplicity of Affairs with which he was surrounded, but not incumber'd? The Occasion of his sudden Rising af∣forded ample Matter for Wonder, be∣cause known but to few. And for an Introduction, to clear the way to my Reader, I must touch at some Passages in those Times, which are sufficiently known to every one.

The Parliament held in the Year * 3.4 1613. and the King could by no means hit it. They clamour'd against his Ma∣jesty, and buzz'd it about in the Ears

of the People, That his Majesty wink'd at the Increase of Popery: upon this, the K. in a disgust dissolves them, and desir'd no more of their Company for 7 Years after. At last, what with the want * 3.5 of Money and other Reasons of State pressing, he resolves to try them once more; and so on the 30^th of Jan. 1620. he with the Lords and Commons met in the High Court of Parliament. Their Demeanour to his Majesty was * 3.6 (as beseem'd Subjects) dutiful and full of Respect. But they were resolv'd * 3.7 to fall foul upon some Persons, who, they thought, had more regard in their Practices to their own private Interest, than to the common Good of the Peo∣ple. It seems the Lord Marquess and the Chancellor were both at this time in Fault; the one by interceding for, and the other by granting Commissions for Monopolies, and other Grievances. The Appeals of the Subject for Justice were very loud in Parliament, but es∣pecially against Sir Gyles Mompesson, Sir Francis Michel, and Sir Edward Villers (Half-Brother to the Mar∣quess) who, tho' innocent in himself, was yet unwittingly trick'd by some crafty Merchants, into a piece of

Knavery. They that were accus'd, * 3.8 with a great many others that exspected every hour to be in the same pickle, could invent no other way to escape, but by poisoning the King with an ill Opinion of the Parliament, and so to get them dissolv'd. To this Intent, they terrify the Marquess, who (as was said) had a Hand in these Things, that were so much resented: they insinuate,

That it was high time for him to look about him; considering that the King had (as was noted) at the Opening of the Session given Incouragement to the Parliament to redress Grie∣vances, and had said openly before all the Members, Spare none, where you * 3.9 find just Cause to punish. And if the Two Houses should sit a whole Year, the greatest Advantage that could be hop'd for from them, would be but Two or Three Subsidies at the most; and that it were better for the King to gather such a Sum or greater by his Prerogative, tho' it be a little out of the way, than to wait for the Ex∣hibition of a little Money, which will cost dishonour in the End, and the ruin of his most Loyal and Faithful Subjects.

These Jealousies disturb the King, * 3.10 and haunt my Lord Buckingham with all the Terrors and dismal Apprehen∣sions imaginable, till the Dean of West∣minster with his seasonable Advice dis∣pell'd the Glooms, and brought Things to a clear Light; Who address'd him∣self thus to the Marquess, (as Bishop Hacket found it in a Breviate of his own Hand-writing)

That there was no reason to quarrel with the Parlia∣ment for tracing Delinquents; that they deserv'd Praise for their Justice, as well as for their Civil Behaviour towards the King. But your Lord∣ship (continues he) is jealous, that if the Parliament holds long in Favour, you may be brought into Question. Follow this Parliament in their Un∣dertakings, and you may prevent all: Swim with the Tide, and there's no * 3.11 danger of drowning. They will be glad of your Favour to assist them. And trust me, and your other Ser∣vants, that have some credit with the most active Members, to keep you clear from the Strife of Tongues. But if you assist to break up this Par∣liament, now in pursuit of Justice, only to save Villains; you will pluck

up a Sluce, which will overwhelm your self. The King will find it a great Disservice before one Year expire. This is Negative Counsel: I will now spread Affirmative Proposals before your Honour, which I have studied and considered. Delay not one Day, before you give your Bro∣ther Sir Edward a Commission for an Embassage to some of the Princes of Germany, or the North-Lands, and dispatch him over the Seas, be∣fore he be miss'd. Those empty Fel∣lows, * 3.12 Sir G. Mompesson and Sir Fr. Michel, let them be made Victims to the publick Wrath. Nay, my Sen∣tence is, destroy all Monopolies, and Patents of griping Projections. I have search'd the Signet-Office, and have collected almost Forty, which I have hung in one Bracelet, and are fit for Revocation. Damn all these in one Proclamation, and your Lordship will partake of the Applause together with his Majesty. This will con∣vince the People that you do not ap∣prove of what you acted under a Mis∣representation of things, when you were but new-blossom'd in Court, and could not discover the Deformiy

that lay hid. And God forbid, the King should be incited to Collecti∣ons of Aid, without the Concur∣rence of his Parliament. An English∣man's Tribute comes not from the King's Exaction, but by the People's free Oblation out of the Mouth of their Representatives.

These were the Dean's Instructions; * 3.13 for which the Marquess returning him Thanks, said, That hereafter, he would use no other Counseller to ease him at a pinch: and well had it been for the Dean had he continued as good as his Word. Upon this they go both to∣gether, * 3.14 and present these Proposals to the King; who approving highly of them, Things were transacted accord∣ingly. And doubtless this piece of State-Wisdom, by which the Dean gave so masterly a stroke of his Skill, recommended him to the Honour soon after confer'd upon him. For the King finding him to be a Man of sound Wisdom, and of a stanch Judgment, he made him one of his Privy Coun∣sellors; into which Office he was sworn * 3.15 on the 18^th of June 1621.

This Parliament, wearied with long * 3.16 sitting, was prorogued from the 27^th of March, to the 18^th of April. The Marquess had a Design in it; thinking that this Interval would give them time to cool, and that it might miti∣gate the Displeasure of Both Houses, which at that time was very strong against the Lord Chancellor Bacon. But he was out in his Politicks, it seems; for Accusations, like Malice, grow more inveterate by delay, and Time discovers new Circumstances, instead of wearing out the old. So * 3.17 the Leisure of three Weeks multiplied a pile of fresh Suggestions against him, and nothing was presaged more certain than his Ruin: and accordingly being accus'd of Bribery, the Great Seal was taken from him on the third of May. Thus fell this Great Man: a Thing (considering the rest of his Character) almost incredible, were it not vouch'd by the universal Consent of the Hi∣stories of those Times.

The Courtiers, you may be sure, a * 3.18 great many of them were scrambling for the Place. And the most likely to get it was one Sir Lionel Cranfield, then Master of the Court of Wards. But

the King, before he would dispose of it, had set Buckingham to enquire what the profits of it might amount to in Justice, and whether certain perqui∣sites were natural to it, which some had a great mind to cut off. Sir Lio∣nel intreats the Lord Marquess to be quick, and to advise concerning the Matter with the Dean of Westminster, a sound and a ready Man, who was not wont to clap the Shackles of Delay upon a Bus'ness. So, he being spoke to, to draw up in Writing what he thought of the Matter, he return'd a * 3.19 speedy Answer on the 10^th of May, in these Words.

My most Noble Lord

ALtho' the more I examine my self, * 4.1 the more unable I am made, to my own Judgment, to wade through any part of that great Imployment, which your Honour vouchsafed to confer with me about; yet because I was bred under the Place, and that I am credibly imform'd, my true and Noble Friend the Master of the Wards, is willing to accept it (and if it be so, I hope your Lordship will incline that way) I do crave Leave to acquaint

your Honour, by way of prevention, with secret Underminings, which will utterly overthrow all that Office, and make it beggarly and contemptible. The lawful Revenue of that Office stands thus, or not much above, at any time. In Fines certain 1300 l. per An. or thereabout. In Fines Ca∣sual 1250 l. or thereabout. In greater Writs 140. l. For Impost of Wine 100 l. In all 2790. And these are all the true Means of that Great Office.

Away runs the Lord Marquess with * 4.2 this Paper, and some other Informa∣tions of the Dean's, and presents them to his Majesty, when the Ink was scarce dry: upon which the King, having perus'd the Paper, bolted out these unexpected Words, You name divers to me to be my Chancellor. The Mar∣quess pleas'd and surpriz'd at once, re∣plies ex tempore, Sir, I am a Suitor for none, but for him that is so capable in your great Judgment. Be you satisfied then (says the King) I think I shall seek no farther. At this Buckingham impotent to contain his Joy, sends a blind Message to the Dean imediately, That the King had a Preferment in the Deck for him. He, ignorant of

what had pass'd, mistook the Message, guessing it might relate to the Bishop∣rick of London, now void by the Death * 4.3 of Dr. King, in prospect of which he had been a Suitor before. Thus in speaking for another, he sped for him∣self. This is the very Manner faith∣fully related, how this Preheminency dropt upon him, that never dreamt of it. And this Account, which I have taken from Bishop Hacket, of Dr. Williams his Advancement, first to the Deanery of Westminster, secondly to be Privy-Counsellor, and lastly to be Lord Keeper; as it discovers nothing in it of dishonourable Proceedings, so is it in it self very probable, and has, be∣sides that, the Authority and Word of a worthy Prelate to strengthen and confirm it, and consequently to dis∣credit the uncharitable Surmises made * 4.4 by Sir A. W. concerning the causes of his Rising; which I shall not trouble my self to transcribe here, but rather choose to refer my Reader to the Pam∣phlet it self, if he thinks it worth his while.

But I go on. On the 10^th of July 1621. he was sworn Keeper of the * 4.5 Great Seal of England. And when

the Seal was on that Day actually de∣liver'd * 4.6* 4.7 to him at Whitehall, he made a Speech to the King, in the Audience of all the Lords of the Council; which because it is but short, I will transcribe.

Most Dread and Mighty Sovereign,

IF I should think my self any way * 5.1 worthy or sufficient for this Great Place, wherein your Majesty is pleas'd to make Probation of me, I were the most unworthy and insufficient wretch in all the World. But in good Faith I do not: But as conscious of my own Unworthiness, I am quite asto∣nish'd at your Favour and Goodness. I do not therefore trouble my Head to find out the Reasons of this Ad∣vancement, because I take it for no Ordinary Effect, but an Extraordinary Miracle. Deus, & qui Deo proximus tacitò munera dispertit arbitrariò, & beneficiorum suorum indignatus per ho∣mines stare judicium, mavult de sub∣ditis dedisse Miraculum. I must only lift up mine Eyes unto Heaven, and beseech that GOD, who some Ten Years since brought me like Elisha to be Servant only unto that Elias, who under GOD and your Majesty was

the Chariot and Horsemen of our Israel, that now he would be pleas'd to double the Spirit of Elias upon his Servant Elisha, whom your Majesty hath invested with his Robe and Man∣tle. And for my especial Direction, I will take up that Counsel which Pliny gave his Friend Maximus, newly elected Praetor for Achaia, Me∣minisse oportet Officii Titulum; I will never forget my Office and Title: I am design'd to be a Probationer in this Place, and as a Probationer by GOD's Grace I will demean my self; I will take up together with this Seal that Industry, Integrity and Modesty, Non ut me Consulem, sed ut Consulatus candidatum putem. That is, I will not esteem my self a Keeper, but a Suitor only for the Great Seal. And if I feel the burden too heavy, (which I mightily fear and suspect) I will choose rather Desinere quàm Deficere, to slip it off willingly to some stronger Shoul∣der, than to be crush'd in pieces with the poise of the same. And I humbly beseech your Majesty also to remem∣ber, I am no more than a meer Pro∣bationer. If I prove raw at first, I must have time to learn. The best of

them all have craved no less, and I will desire no more. For if after the full weighing of my Strength, I shall find my self unable for this Service, I will say unto your Majesty, as Jacob said unto Pharaoh, Pastor ovium est servus tuus; whatsoever you are pleas'd, Sir, to make me, I am but a Keeper of Sheep; in that Calling your Majesty found me, and to that Calling I shall be ready to appropriate my self again. In the mean time, I beseech your Majesty to protect this Court of Justice, wherein you have plac'd me, that the Strength and Power of that Body be nothing im∣paired through the Weakness of the Head. Nemo Adolescentiam contem∣nat. Let not my Fellows of another Profession cry out with him in the Psalm, There, there, so would we have it; neither let them say, We have de∣voured him. And so I end with my Prayer unto GOD, That your Maje∣sty may live long, and my self no longer, than I may be serviceable to your Majesty.

His Majesty heard him very graci∣ously, * 5.2 and said, That he was well * 5.3 pleas'd in his Choice, and that he was

confident he would not deceive his Jug∣ment. * 5.4 When it had taken Air, that * 5.5 this great Preferment was like to be confer'd upon the Doctor, People be∣gan to talk, every one as his Interest or Affections prompted him. Some would not believe it, and cry'd it was impossible, so strange a thing should be; others said it was no Novelty, but an old Custom renew'd, and, God give him Joy of his Office: And the Law∣yers, they fretted to have such a Flower pull'd out of their Garland. But why * 5.6 out of Theirs?

Did they not know that the Father of the late Chancellor receiv'd the Seal from a Bishop, as well as it came from the Son to a Bishop again? Were they ignorant how former Ages held it more con∣sonant to Reason, to trust the Con∣science of the Clergy with the Case of Lay-men, they being best able to judge of a Case of Conscience; and anciently the Civil Laws were adjud∣ged by the Ministers of the Church; and the Chancery and other Courts of Equity, then in the Charge of a Divine Minister. And had K. James * 5.7 liv'd to have effected his Desires, the Clergy had fix'd firm footing in

Courts of Judicature, out of the road of the Common-Law: and this was the Reason of Dr. Williams his first Initiation to this Office.

But to wrangle no longer with the * 5.8 Lawyers: Since the Dean was to be the Man, and since Promotion to any Dignity will draw Envy more or less upon any Man, but especially upon one, whose sudden Advancement sur∣prizes People; let us see what Methods the Dean took to soften the harshness of Censure, and to qualify Envy as much as possible; which certainly is the Duty of every Wise Man in all his Actions. Therefore, after he had got the Grant * 5.9 of the Place, he obtain'd of the King, that the Seal should not be taken from the Commissioners, and put into his Custody, before Ten Weeks were over. Thus he thought Popular Dis∣course would have leisure to spend it self, and he himself have time to study and weigh the Trust of his Office; and the better to enable himself to discharge it, he kept Sir Harry Finch, a most profound Lawyer, in his Lodg∣ings, from May to October following, to advise with him upon all occasions. By this means too, he had time to seek

out for honest and able Servants to fill the Chief Places of Trust under him. Add to this, that in the Interim several Things were discours'd of, to his Honour: for when the first Heat of a Rumor is over, then People are apt upon second Thoughts, to reason the Matter candidly and fairly; whereas in the beginning the impetuous bent and current of the Stream is apt to appear even the weightest Judg∣ments along with it. Now it began to break out, that this Preferment was not of his own seeking, neither could it then or thereafter be made out, that he had bought his Greatness. Next to this, he shelter'd himself under his Modesty; which, because it is soft and yielding, breaks the force of Envy, the most of any thing; and therefore his * 5.10 humble Request to his Majesty was, That he would take off from the Grandure of his Place, by such Terms and Conditions in his Person, as might comprize it in a less size, than it was ever before receiv'd in by any. To this intent, he desir'd no Chancellor for the future might continue above three Years; that he should be in the nature of a Probationer for one Year and

half; that in the Court of Chancery he might have a Master of the Rolls, of exact Knowledge, to sit with him; and lastly, the constant Assistance of two Judges. What could shew greater Modesty and Caution, the two main Supporters of Men in high Places? But all these Proposals were rejected, and made ineffectual, 'tis likely under∣hand by some curious Persons, who might have a mind to try, if the new Lord Keeper could walk alone with∣out falling, in so slip'ry a Place. 'Tis * 5.11 to no purpose to answer the Objections * 5.12 which some Persons then made (and may make now) against his Entring upon that Office, being a Clergy-man, and set a-part, as it were, for GOD's Service: As if taking Orders did in∣capacitate a Man of Abilities from serving his King and Countrey; or as if a Priest were no Subject, and his King had no Right in him. 'Tis true in∣deed at first, when the Harvest was great, and the Labourers but few, the Labourers could not well be spar'd out of the Field, any more than a Soul∣dier can in the Day of Battle. But now that the whole Nation is gain'd over to the Gospel, and thanks be to

GOD, we have able Pastors and Teachers; the Church of Christ may be serv'd and patroniz'd by other means, beside Preaching. And the Clergy have but too great need of some of their own Order in Places of Power and Dignity, to preserve their Maintenance from Sacriledge, and their Persons and Function from Contempt. But what had been a real Objection * 5.13 could it have been made but true, was, that some should cry out, He was illiterate in the Laws: this scandal va∣nish'd soon tho', when the Court had Tryal of his Abilities. And to the Doctor's great Credit be it spoken, that tho' bred a Divine, yet no Man either before or after, acquitted himself be∣yond him, and perhaps, not equal to him, in Chancery.

I have been so taken up with the * 5.14* 5.15 Incumbrances of settling his Lordship in his new Office, that I have not had time before to tell my Reader, That, in the same Month he was made Lord Keeper, he was likewise made Bishop of Lincoln. And because the Reve∣nues of that Bishoprick were but small, he urging, that the Port and Grandure of the Keeper's Place must be main∣tain'd

in some convenient manner, and if it might possibly be, without being a charge to his Majesty; his Lordship got a Grant to hold the Deanery of Westminster, which was sought after by several that stood upon the catch at that time, expecting that it would be voided by the Lord Keeper. It was well for him tho', that he had se∣cur'd himself in the Deanery as fast as Law could make him, when about five Years after his Enemies strove to out him. By the Indulgence of his Commendam too, he held his Rectory of Walgrave; saying; That the Insta∣bility of Humane Affairs, should make every Man look for a Dissolution of his Fortunes, as that of his Body. Upon * 5.16 his holding all his Preferments, Dr. Heylyn, I remember, makes this plea∣sant Remark; That he was a perfect Diocess within himself, as being Bishop, Dean, Prebend, Residentiary and Parson all at once: To which let me add, That never was there, I believe, a Diocess more compleat, or better fill'd, in all the several Degrees of Dignity and Office.

The Keeper now being high in his * 5.17 Majesty's Favour, as the King had

rais'd him for his, so now he through the King rais'd others for their Me∣rits. He got the Royal Grant for the Advancement of four at one time; Dr. Davenant to the Bishoprick of Sa∣lisbury, Dr. Carew to that of Exeter, * 5.18 and Dr. Donne to succeed Carew in the Deanery of St. Paul's; at this time too St. David's Bishoprick was void, and the principal among those that put for it was Dr. Laud, a Man of great Learning. But, it seems, both the King and the Archbishop of Canter∣bury were much bent against him, judging him to be a Man of too bold and hot a Spirit for those Times. So that there had been but small hopes for him, had not Buckingham set the Keeper on to move in his behalf; who by his great Importunity with * 5.19 the King, at last prevail'd for him, with much ado: For, says the King to him in a passion, as he went away, Then take him to you, but on my Soul you will repent it: And 'twas ominous, it seems. After this, the Lord Keeper retain'd Laud in his Prebend of West∣minster, and about a Year after gave him a Living of about 120 l. per An. in the Diocess of St. David's, to help

his Revenue; which being brought to him at Durham-House, beyond his Expectation, by Mr. William Winn, his Expression was, Mr. Winn, my Life will be too short to requite your Lord's Goodness. But how two Men so Great and so good should break out after into open Enmity is a Mystery to me at present. If I can hit upon any pro∣bable account, by that time I come to speak of their Differences, the Reader shall have it: Else I shall not, I think, put my Invention upon the stretch, out of Prejudice to either Party: I being wholly unconcern'd as to either of them, any farther than that I am willing, as far as shall lie in my Power, to rescue the Memories of great and worthy Men from such Calumnies, as it is but too often their hard Fortune to be sullied withall: so ungrateful and sacrilegious are we to the Dead, to curry Favour with the Living; who, when their Turn comes (as who knows how nigh his own may be) to quit the World, are like to fare no better; if there be any thing to be gain'd by throwing Infamy, Reproaches, and such heavy Lumber upon their Graves, instead of raising Monuments for them.

I would beg my Reader's Pardon for this Digression, but that would but inlarge it.

I proceed now to shew the Lord * 5.20 Keeper in his New Imployment; for I have already kept him longer idle than he would be content to be, were he now living. He was a Man (as we have seen before) of incomparable Na∣tural Parts; but alas! under a load of Bus'ness they sink soon; and nothing but Application and incessant Industry can rub through all Incumbrances, and make clean Work. It is almost incre∣dible what a perfect Drudge the Keeper was, especially when he first entred upon his Office: for long use and fa∣miliarity makes all Bus'ness easy. It * 5.21 was in the end of Michaelmas Term that he first appear'd in Chancery, and in November the Parliament sate again, in which he was Speaker in the Lord's House: and he had in the Court of Chancery, besides the ordinary Bus'ness, several Causes, which were refer'd in the preceeding Session of Parliament to the succeeding Lord Keeper, to view the Orders of his Predecessor displac'd. And his Bus'ness at this time was so great, that he was forc'd

to sit by Candle-light in the Court two hours before Day, and to remain there till between Eight and Nine; then to repair to his Office in the * 5.22 House of Lords till Twelve or One every Day. After a short Repast at Home, he return'd to hear the Causes in Chancery, which he could not dis∣patch in the Morning: Or if he at∣tended at Council in Whitehall, he came back towards Evening, and fol∣low'd his Imployment in Chancery till Eight at Night, and later. After this, when he came Home, he perus'd what Papers his Secretaries brougt to him, and when that was done, tho' late in the Night, he prepar'd himself for the Lord's House next Morning. And * 5.23 all that liv'd in his Family, knew that it was ordinary with him, to begin his Studies at Six at Night, and to continue them till Three in the Morn∣ing, and be ready again by Seven to attend his Imployment. When I read or hear of such great Examples as This, it makes me think with Re∣gret, what a great many precious Hours we squander away; how we forget the great Errand we are sent upon, and let the Bus'ness of the

World, and the Welfare of Mankind run all to havock, while we are either lazily stretching our selves in our Beds, or impertinently cutting out our Time into formal Visits, or idle Assigna∣tions.

Upon the First Day of the Term, * 5.24* 5.25 when he was to take his Place in Court, he declin'd all the Pomp of an Inaugu∣ration; and setting out betimes in the Morning, attended by the Judges, and some few more, he pass'd through the Cloisters into the Abby, and went with them into Henry the Seventh's Chappel, where he pray'd devoutly on his Knees almost a quarter of an Hour: Then rising up chearfully, he was conducted by his small Train to a mighty confluence, that expected him in the Hall. These he address'd himself to from the Bench of the Court of Chancery: I omit the Speech it self; but the Substance of what he spoke was,

To desire, that those Reasons * 5.26* 5.27 of State, which had thought it con∣venient, to change the Governour of this Court from a Professor of our Municipal Laws, to some one of the Nobility, Gentry or Clergy of this Kingdom, might not create him any

Envy. And tho' I dare not take upon me (says he) to account for these Reasons; yet peradventure this Court of Equity may be as soon perverted by too much, as too little Law: And the principal Qualifications for the well managing of it, seem to be, great Natural Abilities, and a large com∣pass of Learning, with a sincere In∣tegrity of Mind, rather than an exact Knowledge in the Quirks of the Law. Then he proceeds modestly to con∣fess his own Insufficiency for so great a Place; but since it had pleas'd GOD * 5.28 and his Majesty to put him upon an Office, which was not of his own seeking, tho' at present he was unfit, yet he would endeavour all he could, to make himself fit; and the better to enable him, he would put his whole Trust and Confidence in GOD. To this he added some few Resolu∣tions, by which he design'd to guide his Actions: as First, never to make any Decree that should cross the Grounds of the Common or Statute Laws. Secondly, never to encourage any Motion made at the Bar, which did not tend apparently to further and hasten the Hearing of the Cause.

Thirdly, that without special Motives, he would not overthrow the Decrees of his Predecessors. Fourthly, to be as * 5.29 cautious as possible in referring Cau∣ses, because it defer'd the hearing of them. Fifthly, he resolv'd that this Court should be no Sanctuary for un∣discreet and desperate Sureties. Lastly, that he would follow the Rules of this Court as near as possibly he could.

To make good Resolutions is doubt∣less the Mark of an ingenuous Temper, * 5.30 but to keep them and practice according to them, shews a Man stanch and of sted∣dy Principles. And whatever the Kee∣per resolv'd, he had Courage and In∣dustry enough to go through with it. When he had been some time in his Place to stock himself with Experience, never was the Court of Chancery bet∣ter order'd, than in his Time. For * 5.31 he made it his Bus'ness to prevent all immethodical Pleadings, to cheek Ex∣cursions, and hold the Council close to the Point. Immediately upon the opening of a Bill, he would direct the Pleaders, and suffer them to speak on∣ly the very weight of the Cause. And so skilful did he grow in his Bus'ness, that when he had been in Office for

two Terms, the Council at the Bar (who were Men of Worth and Judg∣ment) approv'd of him very much. After he had spent three Years in Chan∣cery, * 5.32 he was not a whit inferior to the best Judge for Sufficiency, to manage his Place. So that it is a Slander, that * 5.33 his Successor the Lord Coventry, re∣vers'd many of his Decrees, and cor∣rected his Errors. Let me (says Bi∣shop * 5.34 Hacket) quote a couple of Wit∣nesses, what they asserted of him; and they are (continues he) rightly pro∣duc'd, as GOD shall judge. The Duke of Buckingham, in the beginning of Michaelmas Term 1624. desir'd the Lord Chief-Justice Hobart, to certify the King, that Williams, by reason of his Inabilities and Ignorance, was not fit for the Keeper's Place; and upon that, he would engage to throw him out, and that he should succeed him. My Lord (replies Hobart) somwhat might have been said at the first, but he should do the Lord Keeper great wrong that should say so now. The next is Mr. G. Evelin, one of the six Clerks, and in his Time the best Head∣piece of the Office, who took pleasure in saying (as many yet know) that the

Lord Keeper Williams had the most tow'ring, sublime Wit, that he ever heard speak; and that his Decrees in all Causes were just: that the Lord Coventry did seldom alter any thing he had settled before him, but upon new Presumptions, and that he spake of him always in Court very honou∣rably. By that time too that he had * 5.35 spent three Years in the Court of Chan∣cery he had obtain'd a very great com∣mand over his Passion, (which was at first objected to him) and he carried all things with a mild and gentle Hand, would chide little, and bear much. How excellent he was for dispatching * 5.36 Bus'ness, take this Account, which he gives of his first Year, in a Letter * 5.37 to the Lord Marquess: July 10. 1622. In this Place I have now serv'd his Majesty one whole Year, diligently and honestly; but to my Heart's grief, by reason of my Ráwness and Inexperience, very unprofitably. Yet if his Majesty will examine the Registers, there will be found more Causes finally ended this Year; than in all the seven Years pre∣ceding: How well ended, I confess in∣genuously, I know not. His Majesty and your Lordship (who, no doubt, have

receiv'd some Complaints, tho' in your Love you conceal them from me) are in that the most competent Judges. His * 5.38 Dispatch (it seems) which was his great Excellency, was cry'd out against by some, and that Causes were cut off too soon. But it was not with him as with a corrupt Judge, that will put off a Hearing to a more convenient Season, as they call it.

Before I leave this Court to follow him to the Star-Chamber, I shall de∣sire my Reader to laugh a little with me, at a diverting Passage which hap∣pen'd about his first Entrance upon Chancery. And here I shall borrow Bishop Hacket's own Phrase, for the better Expressing of the Story. It hap∣pen'd once, that one at the Bar (think∣ing the Lord Keeper as a Novice, might be ignorant of the Terms of the Common-Law) trouled out a Mo∣tion, cramm'd like a Granado with ob∣solete Words, thinking with these misty * 5.39 Phrases, to bassle the new Judge: But he, with a serious Face, answer'd him in a cluster of crabbed Notions pick'd out of Metaphysicks and Logick; as Categorematical, and Syncategoremati∣cal, and a deal of such drumming stuff,

that the Motioner being foiled at his own weapon, and well laugh'd at in the Court, went Home with this new Lesson, That he that tempts a Wise Man in jest, shall make himself a Fool in earnest.

And now to view him in the Star-Chamber. * 5.40 Here he kept up the Dignity of the Court, by driving away all those Contentious Squabbles, which might * 5.41 be better compounded at Home, by Countrey Justices; and admitting here only grave and weighty Causes, as no∣torious Examples of Defamations, Per∣juries, Riots, Extortions, and the like. Upon which Topicks his Speeches were admirable, and taken in short∣hand by several. They were neither tedious nor virulent; for he did not love to heighten the Calamities of the Afflicted. And so pitiful was he in his Censures, that if there be an ex∣treme in shewing Mercy, it was his Fault. He would excuse himself from * 5.42 inflicting any severe Bodily Punish∣ment upon an Offender, by saying, That Councils had forbad Bishops from medling with Blood in a Judi∣cial Form. So glad was he to have some pretence to be over Merciful.

But once he did violence to his Na∣ture, and the Occasion was this: One Floud had said, as was prov'd against him, That our Bishops were no Bi∣shops, but only Lay-men, and usur∣pers of that Title. Floud (says the Lord Keeper) since I am no Bishop in your Opinion, I will be no Bishop to you. I concur with my Lords (the like I never did before) in your Corporal Punishment. In Pecuniary Fines too, his Hand was so light, that the Lord Treasurer Cran∣field complain'd against him to the King, for less'ning his Majesty's Fees. And he was as generous too in remit∣ting his own; for when Sir Francis Inglefield blurted out before Witnesses, That he could prove this Holy Bishop-Judge had been brib'd by some that far'd well in ther Causes; the Bishop to * 5.43 clear himself, calls Sir Francis to make good his Words; which he being not able to do, a Fine of some thou∣sands of Pounds was laid upon him, to be paid to the King and the Injur'd Party. Soon after, the Lord Keeper sends for the poor dejected Gentle∣man, and told him, he would give him Demonstration, that he was above a Bribe; and for my part (says he) I for∣give

you ev'ry Penny of my Fine, and will beg of his Majesty to do the same. This piece of Generosity so vanquish'd Sir Francis, that he acknowledg'd his Fault, and was afterwards receiv'd into some degree of Friendship and Acquaintance with him. And now my Hand is in, I will give you another little Story, that shews much of his Averseness to Bribery. His Lordship * 5.44 being retired one Summer to Nonsuch-House, it chanced, as he was taking the Air in the great Park, that he cast his Eye on the little Village of Malden, from one of the Hills; and seeing there a New-built Church, he ask'd at whose Expence it was. Mr. George Minors, that attended him then, told his Lordship, who was the greatest Be∣nefactor. And has he not a Suit de∣pending now in Chancery? saith the Keeper; the very same, reply'd the other. And the same (returns the Keeper) shall not fare the worse for Building of Churches. When Mr. Mi∣nors had told his Neigbour this, the next Morning he sent a Taste of the Fruits of his Orchard, and the Poultry in his Yard, to Nonsuch-House: Nay carry them back George (says the

Keeper) and tell your Friend, he shall not fare the better for sending of Pre∣sents.

But you'll say, this is but a trifle; and he that forfeits his Honour at so cheap a rate, must be both Fool and Knave. And it is impossible a Man should live at the rate he did, and expend such vast Sums, but he must have some By∣way to enrich himself. To this I an∣swer, * 5.45 That he was liberal indeed, but then his Income was large by his Pre∣ferments, and he knew well how to manage it to the best Advantage. Add to this, that he never feasted the King, and very rarely put himself to the charge of any Entertainments for the Courtiers. But what he did disburse was principally upon poor Scholars, and decay'd Gentlemen, whom he would thank any one to inform him of: And the Prisoners at the Gate-house were the better for his Charity every week. And thus with GOD's Blessing upon his Plenty, he was able to go a great way with his Purse.

Ay, but (says A. W.) Williams ex∣ceeded * 5.46 Bacon in the way of Bribery; answering by Petitions, in which his Servants had one part, himself another,

and so was calculated to be worth to him and his Servants 3000 l. per An. a new way, never found out before. And * 5.47 true it is, that it was objected to him, That he dispatch'd a great many Causes by hearing Petitions in his Chamber; and this he did for the Relief of the Poor, from whom he could make no Advantage, either to himself or to his Secretaries. But he is not the first that has been accus'd for his Good Works. Some at the Bar, 'tis likely, were dissatisfied, because they had not a Glut of Motions. Therefore the Keeper, to secure himself from Mis∣representations (the Bane of honest Statesmen) directs two Remonstrances, * 5.48 the first to the Lord Marquess, Sept. 8. the other to his Majesty, Octob. 9. 1622. In that to the Marquess, he protests, that he is fain to allow twenty pounds a Year to a Youth in his Chamber, to take care of the poor Men's Petitions, the Secretaries did so neglect them. In that to his Ma'esty, he declares, that he had observ'd in all Orders up∣on Petition, the Cautions which he had receiv'd from him. Then, says he, I humbly crave your Majesty's Opinion, whether I may go on this way; for

what reason have I to over-toil my self, in easing the Purse of the Subjects, if it be objected as a Crime against me, and be not a Service acceptable to your Majesty and the Realms? So the King approv'd of his proceed∣ings. * 5.49 This Slander, as it troubled him very much, so he was diligent to clear himself from it; as appears not only from the Remonstrances, but likewise from a Letter of his at the same time * 5.50 to the Duke.

It is not sufficient to render an Of∣ficer unblameable, that he be proof against Bribery. He must likewise have Courage enough not to dread the Malice and Ill-will of any, so long as he does his Duty; and so much rigid Ho∣nesty as to stand out in a just Cause, against the Interest even of his dearest Friends, and greatest Benefactors: for there is one to whom we are all infi∣nitely oblig'd more than to all the World beside, and that is GOD; whose Cause therefore can never be forsaken, without the blackest Ingratitude. This, I confess, is the greatest trial of Vir∣tue; it being, doubtless, a harder In∣junction to Humanity, to forsake our Friends for GOD's sake, than to love

our Enemies. How secure the Lord Keeper was from the Wo, so justly denounc'd against them that fear Men more than GOD, the Reader may see from several Instances, extant in Bishop Hacket: And I shall make it evident * 5.51 enough, if, omitting those Passages, I only mention his Courage, in with∣standing Buckingham, when he saw just reason for it; for to be sure if he would not yield to him, that was not only the most powerful Courtier in his time, but likewise his very great Patron, no one will surmise that he stood in Aw of others. And so remarkable was * 5.52 his Resolution in sometimes crossing of this Great Favourite's Designs, when he saw weighty Reasons for it; that the King when in a pleasant mood would say, That he was a stout Man, that durst do more than himself: For the Duke, it seems, was so great with the Prince, that the King himself was forc'd in Policy to hide his Resent∣ments from him. And his Majesty * 5.53 thank'd GOD in the presence of many, that he had put the Keeper into that place: For (says he) he that will not wrest Justice for Buckingham's sake, whom he loves, will never be cor∣rupted

with Money, which he never lov'd. And because the Keeper had liv'd fairly for the space of three Years upon the bare Revenues of his Office, and was not the richer by the sale of one Cursitor's place in all that Time; his Majesty gave him a Boun∣tiful New-Years Gift, thinking it but reasonable to encourage him by his Liberality, that never sought after Wealth, by the sordid means of Extor∣tion or Bribery.

I have given you a full View of the * 5.54 Lord Keeper in Chancery, and in the Star-Chamber. In the next place I shall bring him into the Parliament-House, and see with what Prudence he behav'd himself there; a Station, perhaps, much more ticklish than either of the former. In the first Term that he * 5.55 came into Office, the Parliament sate * 5.56 in its second Session Nov. 20. at which time by command from the King, he spake to both Houses: of which Speech thus my Lord Buckingham speaks in a Letter to him, dated November 24. I know not how the Upper-House of Par∣liament approve of your Lordship's Speech, but I am sure he that called them together, and, as I think, can best

judge of it, is so taken with it, that he saith, It is the best that ever he heard in Parliament, and the nearest to his Majesty's Meaning; which, be∣side the Contentment it hath given his Majesty, hath much comforted me in the Choice of your Lordship; who in all things do so well answer his Expe∣ctation.

Two remarkable occurences hap∣pen'd * 5.57 this Session that more immedia∣tely relate to the Keeper. For when the Privilege of the Nobility was de∣bated, and almost carried by a Majo∣rity, that the Vouching of their Ho∣nour should pass with them for an Oath; he prevented it, by the Force * 5.58 of the following Reasons. That the Word of GOD allows of no swearing in deciding of Controversies, and searching after Truth, but by his Name: That the last Appeal is ever to the highest; And that Vengeance belongs to none but GOD. To this he adds, That Singularities are ever to be suspected, and chanllenges any Man to shew that any other Oath, but in the Name of GOD, was us'd in so∣lemn Tryals at that Day, in any Part of Christendom. He advises them to

consider too, how loth the Gentry and Commonalty would be to intrust their Freehold to the protestation of Ho∣nour. And these Considerations pre∣vail'd with most. But the Debate con∣tinuing very long that Morning; an aged Bishop, very infirm in Health, desired to be excused if he could not stay it out. With all our Hearts (said * 5.59 some Lords, that did not much reve∣rence the Order) you may all of you troop Home as fast as you please; and the Earl of Essex, pressing it more passionately than any, desired to know if their Lordships were not content to throw the Doors wide open, and let all the Bishops out, if they would. Upon this, up stands the Keeper, and with a prudent Animosity, reply'd,

That if he were commanded, he would * 5.60 put it to the Question, but to the King, and not to the House of Peers. For their Lordships, as well Spiritual as Temporal were call'd by the King's Writ, to sit and abide there, till the same Power dissolv'd them. And for my Lords Temporal, they had no Power to license themselves; much less to authorize others to depart from the Parliament:

and so all was husht,

And this very Passage, were there no more of the Lord Keeper remain∣ing, is sufficient to shew him to be as Great a Man, as ever spoke in Par∣liament.

At this time again the House of * 5.61 Commons and the King could by no * 5.62 means agree; for they displeas'd him very much with their Petitions and Remonstrances, insomuch that his Ma∣jesty in a Letter rebuk'd them severely: The harshness of which Answer, the Keeper advis'd might be mitigated and softned; for he could never bear, that there should be a Misunderstanding between the King and his People, if it were possible to prevent it. Never∣theless, the Ferment by degrees work'd it self to such a height, that the King departed from them in his Wrath, and * 5.63 dissolv'd them utterly by Proclama∣tion, on the 6^th of January. This trou∣bled the Keeper very much, who saw plainly of what dangerous Conse∣quence this might be, and how much his Majesty trespass'd against the true Principles of English Policy, by quar∣relling with his Parliament. And therefore he did all he could to per∣swade the King to make it his earnest

Endeavour to unite with them, when they were assembled next.

Upon Michaelmas Eve, Viscount * 5.64 Mandevile, Lord Treasurer of England, surrender'd his Office up to the King, * 5.65 and upon the next Day after but one, the Lord Cranfield was set in his place. The Keeper giving him his Oath, * 5.66 complimented him too with a short Speech at his Admission. So that as yet there was nothing in appearance but Friendship between Cranfield and Williams; tho' the Treasurer had cros∣sed him in one or two Suits, which he regarded the less, because he knew him to be a little rough and surly by Nature to all People. But after the Dissolution of the preceding Parlia∣ment, some of the Lords of the Council thought it advisable, to take off from the harshness of it, by a Pardon of Grace, for the Benefit of those that were question'd for old Debts and Duties to the Crown. And when the Lord Keeper had just brought it to a Head, in steps the Treasurer, and moves, That such as took out this Pardon, should pay the accustom'd Fees, to such Officers as he should appoint, that so he might at once in∣rich

the King and himself: which Proposal was laugh'd at, and rejected. Yet still he persisted to burden this Pardon with such Incumbrances, which must needs render it unacceptable; insomuch that it was lay'd aside, and debated no more. This as it got the Treasurer a great deal of Ill-will, so it redounded to the Keeper's Credit, who was one of the main Sticklers for the Pardon. This gall'd Cranfield * 5.67 sorely, and set him upon endeavour∣ing, first to make a Faction at Court against Williams: but having not suf∣ficient Interest with the Great Ones, he tries another Trick. So he falls * 5.68 to Pen, Ink and Paper, and Draws up some pitiful Failings, interwoven with Fiction and Ignorance, against him; from which the Keeper found it a much ea∣sier Task to clear himself, than his Ad∣versary did at first to invent them. But * 5.69 yet he complains, in a Letter to the Marquess, as very sensible of the In∣jury done him; whose Answer to him was, that his Adversary was not be∣liev'd, and desired him to consider, that he had to do with one whose Ill∣manners would give him no satisfa∣ction: to which the Keeper replies,

in another Letter, His Majesty's Ju∣stice, * 5.70 and your Lordship's Love, are Anchors strong enough for a Mind more toss'd than mine is, to ride at. Yet pardon me, my Noble Lord, upon this Consideration, if I exceed a little in Passion, the Natural Effect of Honesty and Innocency. A Churchman and a Woman, have no greater Idol under Heaven, than their Good Name: And they cannot fight, nor with credit scold, and least of all recriminate, to protect and defend the same. The only Re∣venge left them is to grieve and to complain. Then he concludes; Whom I will either challenge before his Ma∣jesty to make good his Suggestions, or else (which I hold the greater Valour, and which I wanted, I confess, before this Check of your Lordship's) go on in my Course, and scorn all these un∣worthy Scandals, as your Lordship shall direct me. But for all this in a Month's space, they wrangled them∣selves into very good Friends again; and the Keeper was Godfather to the Treasurer's next Child.

In the Year 1623. in Febr. The Par∣liament * 5.71 met again, his Majesty think∣ing * 5.72 it high time to enter into a Cor∣respondence

with his People once more. The Lord Keeper, foreseeing * 5.73 this, gets his Majesty to sign a Writ, for a Call of Serjeants; which accord∣ingly was perform'd on May the 6^th. Thirteen of the best Repute being * 5.74 chosen, who on that Day made their Appearance before the Lord Keeper, sitting in the High Court of Chancery; from whence he saluted them with a Learned and Eloquent Oration, accord∣ing to the Relish of those Times, that lov'd to have their Speeches embroi∣der'd with Greek and Latin: As tho' the Confusion of Tongues at Babel had been absolutely necessary to compleat the Art of Oratory: But yet a Great Man must condescend to the Follies of the Times he lives in; and perhaps it were no impertinent Caution, to speak generally with the Vulgar, tho' we may think with the Wise. But, to go on with the Parliament: When they were met, and the King had * 5.75 ended his Speech to them, he was se∣conded by the Lord Keeper; and so ended the first Day. On Saturday following, the 21. of the Month, the Keeper again declar'd his Majesty's Mind to the People: And so well was he * 5.76

approv'd of for a Speaker, that within three Days after, he had work enough, * 5.77 and too much of that Nature on his Hands. The Duke of Buckingham (it seems) had entertain'd the Lords and Commons in the Banqueting-house at Whitehall, with the whole Story of the Negotiation in Spain, and how well both the Prince and he had ma∣naged their Conduct all along in that Affair; when at the same time (if we credit some Historians) the Duke's Behaviour in that Court was all im∣prudent. But however (Nature mak∣ing every Man Orator in his own Cause) he put a good Gloss upon it, and so tickled their Ears with his Ha∣rangue, that they must have it over again the next Day, and the Keeper must be the Speaker. So he rubs up his Memory, draws up his Notes in haste upon three Sheets of Paper, and lays his whole Scheme according to the Duke's Model presented the Day before; for to err from that, he knew, would be no less than Treason. So, when the time was come, he be∣gan * 5.78 his Speech, and held it on for four Hours together, without the least Hesitation or Repetition; and every * 5.79

thing was so methodical, so judicious and so graceful withal, that he never got more Applause in his Life for any thing of that kind: And so acceptable was it to the Duke himself (tho' then but a cold Friend) that he said, He knew not how to thank him enough for it.

I should be too particular should I * 5.80* 5.81 make it my Bus'ness to recount how very active the Keeper was in this Blessed Parliament (eminently so call∣ed) for the publick good; how he studied to preserve a mutual Agree∣ment between the King and his Peo∣ple, by keeping up the Prerogative of the one, and maintaining the lawful Liberties of the other; how he would compose Discontents, and mollifie the Refractory, and oblige the leading Voices with Benefits, and what other Favours he thought might win upon them. I shall instance only in two Passages, how very tender he was of admitting the least occasion that might tend towards a Disgust any way between his Majesty and his Sub∣jects. The Lord Treasurer Cranfield * 5.82 (you are to understand) had disoblig'd the Prince, when he was in Spain,

by disswading the King from those * 5.83 large Supplies, which were requir'd for the Maintaining of his Port in a Foreign Court. And he had lost himself with the Duke, by joining (as was thought) in some secret Pra∣ctices, to lessen him in his Majesty's Favour. Now both the Prince and the Duke had sided with the Commons in drawing the King by their conti∣nual Importunities to dissolve the Treaty; and the Commons must now take their Parts in prosecuting Cran∣field. * 5.84 This Accident troubled the King mightily, who was then at Greenwich. He had put great Confidence in his Treasurer, and therefore try'd all he could to defend him: he sends for the Prince his Son, and charges him, That he should not be of any Party in either House; but all to no purpose; for the Duke had push'd him on so far, that there was no retreating. So his Majesty sent for the Lord Keeper, and told him plainly, That he would not make his Treasurer a publick Sa∣crifice.

Sir (says the Keeper) I have * 5.85 attempted amongst my surest Friends, to bring him off fairly: All shrink and refuse me; only the stout and pru∣dent

Lord Hollis adventur'd upon the Frowns of the Prince and Duke, and gave his Reasons, why Middlesex appear'd to him an Innocent. I were mad, if, for my part, I should not wish him to escape this Tempest, and be safe under the Harbour of your Majesty's Clemency. When I deli∣berate upon him, I think of my self; 'tis his Fortune to Day, 'tis mine to Morrow. The Arrow that hits him is within an handful of me. Yet, Sir, I must deal faithfully; your Son the Prince is the main Champion, that encounters the Treasurer; whom if you save, you foil your Son. For tho' matters are carried by the whole Vote of Parliament, and are driven on by the Duke; yet they that walk in Westminster-Hall, call this The Prince's Undertaking; whom you will blast in his Bud to the Opinion of all your Subjects, if you suffer not your Old, and perhaps Innocent Ser∣vant to be pluck'd from the Sanctuary of your Mercy. Necessity must ex∣cuse you from Inconstancy or Cruelty.

So with these Reasons the King was * 5.86 perswaded to yield to the Headstrong Importunities of his Parliament;

and the Treasurer was depos'd, fin'd * 5.87 a thousand Pounds, and committed to the Tower, on the 20^th of May 1624. But discharg'd thence again on the first of June next following. For, let but a People (like froward Chil∣dren) have their Will, when they are bent upon it, and after the Heat is over with them, you may bring them to any thing, nay even to undo what they so passionately acted before. And it must be an inveterate Malice, indeed, that does not relent and grow mild, when the Revenge is over.

Great-Seal: But the Lord Keeper looking it over, after he had consider'd upon it, sends it back without the Seal, with his Advice in a Letter, That * 5.88 his Majesty would be pleas'd (if he had no private Reasons to the con∣trary to make it, according to the Me∣thods propos'd by him, a little more palatable and agreeing to the People, before it was publish'd. And when * 5.89 the King had read the Letter, and saw how very reasonable the Advice was, he alter'd every thing according to the Keeper's Directions. To this I * 5.90 might add, what occurs to me at this present, his great Care to prevent Jea∣lousies amongst the People, when his Majesty (the Treaty then going on with Spain) sent, to have the Great-Seal * 5.91 put first to a General Pardon of all Offences past, with a Dispensation for those to come, to all the Roman Catholicks: And then, upon that, to issue forth two General Commands un∣der the Great-Seal; the First, to all the Judges and Justices of the Peace; and the Second, to all Bishops, Chancel∣lors and Commissaries, not to execute any Statute made against them.

The General Pardon (says the Keeper)

we have pass'd in as full and ample a Manner as they could desire or pen it. The other General and Vast Prohibition I prevail'd with the rest of the Lords to stop, for these Rea∣sons. First, because the Publishing of this General Indulgence at one push, might beget a general Discon∣tent, if not a Mutiny, but the Instil∣ling thereof into the People's Know∣ledge by little and little, would not shock them so much. Secondly, be∣cause to forbid the Judges and Justi∣ces of Peace against their Oaths, who are sworn to execute the Law of the Land, is a thing unpresidented in this Kingdom, and would be a harsh and a bitter Pill to digest, without some Preparative. Thirdly, his Ma∣jesty useth to speak to his Bishops, Judges and Justices of the Peace, by his Chancellor or Keeper, and by the Great-Seal; and I can signifie his Majesty's Pleasure to them with less Noise and Danger, especially by declaring unto them the neces∣sity of these Proceedings at this Juncture of Time.

All these Instan∣ces laid together, sufficiently manifest

his Opinion, That where a King and People disagree, they are like a House divided against it self; for it is impossible, in such a posture, that ei∣ther of them should stand long.

Now we have pass'd through the * 5.92 Bus'ness of Chancery, Star-Chamber, and Parliaments, let us at last retire with him to the Council-Board: A Retirement indeed, such as becomes a Wiseman, and a Philosopher; not Retirement from Bus'ness, but from the Eyes of the Vulgar. This, tho' I mention it last of all, was yet the Office that he was first honour'd with in the State, being made Privy Coun∣sellor, before he was made L. Keeper. And here (as Bishop Hacket very well * 5.93 observes) a great part of the Work is done in secret and behind the Cur∣tain, and by consequence escapes our Sight, and very often our Knowledge. So that from what we know, we can∣not but imagine, that much greater Matters were transacted, that are to us as tho' they had never been. He, that undertakes the Province of a Counsellor, had need of a Head well stored with Politicks, a Heart steell'd with Honesty, and a Spirit truly Pub∣lick,

and jealous of his Countrey's Good and Honour: For, as Igno∣rance is blind, and therefore but a bad Pilot in a troubled State, so Craft is short-sighted ever, and never looks beyond it self; and a Cunning-man may insnare his Prince, but never can advise. What a great Opinion his Ma∣jesty had of the Keeper's Wisdom, as it appears from several other passa∣ges, so more particularly from this, that Ludowick Duke of Richmond should tell him, that the King listned to him before any Minister of State: And that he did the oftner, because if his Majesty were moody, or any way out of Humour, the Keeper would bring him to his Lure with some fa∣cetious and pleasant Dash of Wit or other. He was likewise judg'd a great Abetter of his Nation's Honour and Interest; which was the Reason, that he was imploy'd by his Majesty more than all the rest, to Negotiate with Embassadors; in which Affairs it is an easy Matter to disgrace one's Coun∣trey, if there be wanting either Con∣duct or Courage.

Thus you see how well he was qua∣lified * 5.94 for the great Trust of a Coun∣sellor.

And I find (says Hacket) by his own Confession remaining in some Papers, that he was beholding to the Lord Egerton's Directions, which were these: First, in all Advice to speak from the bottom of the Heart, with∣out any reserve: Secondly, when any thing was propos'd, to examine first of all if it were just; for he that will make bold with GOD for Reasons of State, is not to be trusted by Man: in the next place, if it were for the Honour of the King; and lastly, if it were for the Advantage of Posterity, as well as for the present Good. To which he added this weighty Apho∣rism, To ripen great Matters by Deli∣beration. * 5.95 And his humble Request to his Majesty was, that Counsels should not be whisper'd by one or two in private, but be deliver'd openly at the Board, by sworn Counsellors. His Advice in General to him was, to fol∣low former Precedents in all things, as much as possible: To let private Causes and Actions of Meum and Tuum be confin'd to the Common-Law, and not be admitted to the Council-Board, which his Majesty observ'd at his Re∣quest; to call Parliaments often, and

to keep in with them; never by his Prerogative to abridge the Sub∣jects Liberty, and the Rights of the Laws; and lastly to moderate his pro∣fuse Expences, and so to give, that there might be something left for the Prince his Son to give after him: But that (it seems) was a Lesson he could never teach him; tho' he did all he could to make his Admonitions sink into him, by nicking the Seasons for speaking, as particularly before a Sa∣crament, and at such times, as he thought his Majesty might be best di∣spos'd to receive good Impressions.

I come now to give you a particular * 5.96 Instance or two, wherein he serv'd his Gracious Master by his great stock of Wisdom, and marvellous Skill in Politicks. And here will naturally fall in what he acted while the Prince was in Spain. The King never advis'd * 5.97 with the Keeper, nor any of his Cour∣tiers before his Son went over; (tho' some then suspected that Williams was privy to it) but when he came from New-Market to Whitehall, which was on the 30^th of March, when first he * 5.98 saw the Keeper, smiling he ask'd him,

Whether he thought this Knight-Errant

Pilgrimage would be lucky to win the Spanish Lady, and to con∣vey her shortly into England? Sir, (says Williams) If my Lord Marquess will give Honour to Conde Duke Oli∣vares, and remember he is the Favou∣rite of Spain, or if Olivares will shew honourable Civility to my Lord Mar∣quess, remembring he is a Favourite of England, the Wooing may be prosperous. But if my Lord Mar∣quess should forget where he is, and not stoop to Olivares; or if Olivares, forgetting what Guest he hath receiv'd with the Prince, bear himself haugh∣tily, and like a Castilian Grandee to my Lord Marquess; the Provocation may be dangerous to cross your Ma∣jesty's good Intentions. And I pray GOD that either one, or both of them do not run into that Error.

This shews that he understood the Court of Spain at that time, as well as if he had been a Minister there. And the * 5.99 King, sensible of this, desir'd his As∣sistance in this Business to the utmost of his power; and told him moreover, that if he would serve him faithfully in this one thing, He would never part with him. So the Keeper bethought * 5.100

himself Night and Day, how to ma∣nage this Affair, and what Advice to give; and he sent Letters upon Let∣ters * 5.101 to the Duke and Prince. Now Williams was glad that he had an Op∣portunity given him of Serving his great Benefactor, and expressing his Gratitude, which glow'd within his Breast. He sent Letters to Count Gondamar, to make Buckingham the * 5.102 more acceptable in that Court; where∣in he desir'd of the Count, That he would do that Justice to the Marquess, as to make his Character known, for a Person of a wondrous deal of Ge∣nerosity and Good-nature, with abun∣dance more to his Commendation. And upon such Occasions it is that a Man stands most in need of a Friend; for I may speak for another, tho' I cannot with any Modesty for my self. More∣over, * 5.103 he did all he could to preserve his Repute fair, both with the King and People, when in his Absence seve∣ral Things were lay'd to his charge; and he would send him a particular Account of all the Occurrences at Court; that so he might not be tre∣pan'd, before he was aware: And happy sure are Men in great Places,

that are bless'd with such Friends, as perhaps, while they are sleeping secure∣ly, like their Guardian-Angels, are ever wakeful, and tender of their Charge, and ready upon all Occasions to dis∣appoint the Treacherous and Mali∣cious Designs, that are ever forming against the Great. Yet, for all this, after the Prince and Duke came over again, the Keeper declin'd apace in the Duke's Favour; the Occasion of which will be fitter to be discover'd (if so be a true Discovery may be made at all, since the Springs of most Men's Actions are so dark) when we shall come to speak of his Fall, and the Causes thereof.

A little after this, when he had been * 5.104* 5.105 now in Office about three Years and an half, he gave another proof of his great Abilities in Counsel. The Trea∣ties in Spain being laid aside, and new ones set on foot in France, there was but small hopes of recovering the Pa∣latinate; which was the Occasion of a great deal of Concern to his Majesty, because he could no way foresee how his Grand-Children (which were then but young) would be able to subsist, when they grew to be Men, without

being very chargeable to England.

Sir, says the Lord Keeper, will you be pleas'd to listen to me, taking in the Prince's Consent, of which I make no doubt, and I will shew, how you shall furnish the Second and Third Brothers, with Preferments sufficient to maintain them, that shall cost you nothing. (Breed them up for Scho∣lars in Academical Discipline; keep them strictly to their Books, with such Tutors as will teach them not to abuse themselves with vain Hopes upon the Greatness of their Birth. If they fall to their Studies, design them for the Bishopricks of Durham and Win∣chester, when they become void. If that happen in their Nonage (which is probable) appoint Commendato∣ries to discharge the Duty for them for a laudable Allowance, but gather∣ing the Fruits for the Support of your Grand-Children, till they come to Vi∣rility to be consecrated. George Duke of Anhault, having Ministerial Gifts, was Ordain'd into that Holy Calling at Madgeburgh, and yet put to no Shifts; as Melancthon is my Author, and many more. The Priestly Office was esteem'd from the beginning fittest

for the best Gentlemen, for the First∣born, among them that serv'd the True GOD. And the Romans, who serv'd them that were no Gods, * 5.106 learn'd it at Athens from Theseus, that Citizens of the Noblest Blood, should be train'd up in the Know∣ledge of Sacred Things, and be made the Administrators of Divine My∣steries. And I aim at another Bene∣fit, wherein I praise GOD, that I am assured your Majesty will concur with me, That the Office of a Bishop, im∣prudently by many maligned (I might charge them with a worse crime) will be the more Inviolable, when the Branches of your Royal Stock have so great an Interest in it. And such provi∣sion is needful against Schismatical At∣tempts, both for Religion's sake, and the Publick Weal. For if such great Superstructions should fall, all would come to ruin that is round about them. I will yet go further: If your Majesty think a Bishoprick, tho' of the best kind, too little for either of them, you may be pleas'd to annex to each of them one of your Princi∣pal Offices of State, as you find them trusty and discreet.

When he had

ended, As I live (says the King) I will follow this Direction; I thank you heartily for it; and I account, that it will save me more than the worth of a Subsidy. But the Counsel as good as it was, it seems, was never put into execution; which was no fault of the Lord Keeper's.

I proceed now to a very Remark∣able * 5.107 Instance of his Policy, that will shew how very vigilant he was to pro∣cure Intelligence of all secret Pro∣ceedings at Court, and how fit a Per∣son he was to be consulted in a Diffi∣culty, and to unravel Plots. You must * 5.108 understand, when the Prince and Duke return'd from Spain, they commented so upon the Proceedings of that Court in the Treaty, that the Parliament was full of Invectives and Resentments against it. Inoiosa, the Spanish Am∣bassador at our Court, hearing of this, he sets his Head on work, to make a Breach between the King and his Par∣liament; and likewise to set him against the Prince and the Duke, who, he knew well enough, were the main Per∣sons concern'd. So with much ado at last, he gets an Opportunity (for he was never permitted to be in private

with the King, by reason of the jea∣lousy the Prince and the Duke had of him) to convey a Paper privately into * 5.109 his Majesty's Hand, in which were Articles drawn against the Prince and Duke, and ill Surmises against the Parliament. The Prince and Duke's fomenting the Parliament at this time against Treasurer Cranfield, whom the King (as we said before) was very de∣sirous to save, might, with some other suspicious Occurrences at this Jun∣cture, confirm his Majesty's Jealousies. And so far did this Contrivance pre∣vail * 5.110* 5.111 upon the King, that he grew sullen and thoughtful, and would entertain the Prince and Duke with no Dis∣course, but Riddles and broken Sen∣tences, that like flashes of Lightning from a black Cloud, shew'd a Storm gathering within. Immediately they conclude all was not right; and upon Inquiry, they found, that the Spanish Secretary, and Maestro the Jesuit had been with the King, and that some of the Ambassador's House had made their Brags, That they had nettled the Duke, and that a Train would take Fire speedily, to blow up the Parliament. The King amidst his great Anxieties

prepares to go to Windsor, thinking perhaps to leave his Cares behind him. So in the End of April, being Saturday in the Afternoon, he takes Coach, and his Son along with him, but makes some slight Pretence to leave Bucking∣ham behind, as he was putting his Foot into the Coach. At that Tears burst from him, and he humbly requested his Majesty to tell him his Offence, that he might confess it, or clear him∣self: To which the King reply'd only (with a Sigh) That he was the greatest * 5.112 Wretch living, to be forsaken of those that were dearest to him: which Ex∣pressions drew Tears on both sides; but the King drove away for Windsor, and left the disconsolate Duke behind. * 5.113

Now the Lord Keeper was a Man that spar'd no cost for the best Intelli∣gence he could purchase of Court-Occurrences; and he would often say, That without a deal of Money, it was impossible to be a Statesman. And of this Accident, his Scout had brought the best Account he could from what he saw, for he heard little. So away he goes to the Duke, then all in Sor∣row at Wallingford-House; and with much ado, gains admittance to him

After solemn Protestations of the great Concern he had for him, and his earnest Desires to serve him, he begs of his Grace, that he would make haste for Windsor, and shew himself to his Majesty, before Supper was over; to carry himself withall the winning Ad∣dress imaginable, and to keep Night and Day close to his Person. For the Danger was, lest any one should get the King's Ear, and perswade him to dissolve the Parliament, and upon the Dissolution of it, get his Grace thrown into the Tower, and then GOD knows what might follow. Lose no time, I beseech your Grace (says he) and lock up this Advice in your Breast. The Duke, returning him hearty Thanks, posts away to Windsor, and comes there unexpected. To be sure he ac∣quainted the Prince with the Occasion of his coming: So that his Highness * 5.114 was early next Monday Morning at the Lord's House (before they sate) to speak with the Keeper. And taking him aside into a Lobby, he thanks him for the Counsel he gave Buckingham:

And (says he) you that have gone thus far, may receive greater Thanks of us both, if you will spread open

this black Contrivance, which hath lost him the good Opinion ofmy Fa∣ther, and I my self am in little better Condition. Sir (says the Keeper) let my Soul suffer for Falshood, if I know any more, than that some in the Spanish Ambassador's House have been preparing Mischief, and have infus'd it abour four Days since into his Ma∣jesty. But the Curtain of Privacy is drawn before the Picture, that I cannot guess at the Colours. Well, my Lord (says the Prince) if that be the Picture∣drawer's Shop, no Counsellor in this Kingdom is better acquainted than your self with the Works and the Workmen. I might have been (says the Keeper) and I am pang'd like a Woman in Travail, till I know what Mis-shapen Creature they are draw∣ing. But your Highness and my Lord Duke, have made it a Crime to send unto that House, and they are afraid to do it who are commanded from his Majesty. It is a Month since I have forbidden the Servants of that House to come at me. But, says the Prince, I will make that Passage open to you again without Offence, and en∣terprize any way to bring us out of

this Wood, wherein we are lost. Only before we part, keep not from me, how you came to know or imagine, that the Spanish Agents have charg'd Buck∣ingham to my Father with high Mis∣demeanors, or perhaps Disloyalty. I would hear you to that Point, that I may compare it with other Parcels of my Intelligence. Sir (says the Keeper) I will go on directly with you. An∣other perhaps would blush, when I tell you with what Heifer I plow; but knowing mine Innocency, the worst that can happen, is to expose my self to be laugh'd at. Your High∣ness has often seen the Ambassador's Secretary, Don Francisco Carondelet: I have discover'd him to be a Wanton, and a Servant to some of our English Beauties, but above all to one of that * 5.115 gentle Craft in Mark-Lané. A Wit she is, and one that must be courted with News and Occurrences at Home and Abroad, as well as with Gifts. I have a Friend that brib'd her in my Name, to send me a faithful Convey∣ance of such Tidings, as her Para∣mour Carondelet brings to her. All I instructed the Duke in, came out of her Chamber. And she hath well

earn'd a piece of Plate or two from me, and shall not be unrecompenc'd for this Service, about which your Highness doth use me, if the Drab can help me in it. Truly, Sir, this is my Dark Lanthorn, and I am not asham'd to enquire of a Dalilah to resolve a Riddle; for in my Studies of Divinity, I have glean'd up this Maxim, Licet uti alieno Peccato; tho' the Devil make her a Sinner, I may make good use of her Sin. Yea, (says the Prince merrily) do you deal in such Ware? In good faith, Sir (says the Keeper) I never saw her Face.

And so this Conference ended.

Since the Keeper had gone thus far * 5.116 in this Intrigue, he was resolv'd to go through with it, and to sift the Mat∣ter to the Bottom; which he knew he should never be able to do, except he had an Opportunity of pumping the Secretary Francisco, who had (by the Duke's Orders) been forbid the Keeper's House above a Month since. If he should meerly send for him, with∣out any pretence, it would look (he thought) a little suspicious, and then the Secretary would be much upon the Reserve, and not open himself so

freely. As the Keeper was musing upon this Difficulty, he chopt upon this lucky Thought: He orders his Pursi∣vant Captain Toothbie, to seize upon an English Priest lodging in Drury-Lane, whom Francisco (as the Keeper knew) lov'd intirely. The poor Se∣cretary, as soon as he heard of his Friend's Misfortune, was in a woful Taking, knowing the Law, and how severe the Parliament then sitting would be, if he should be brought to his Trial. He had been banish'd the Keeper's House long since, and he knew no body else, that was able to assist him in his Friend's behalf. Prest with these Difficulties, he saw it was no time, in a Matter of so great con∣cern, to be over-modest, and to stand upon Punctilios: so he sent an humble Request to the Lord Keeper, to be ad∣mitted to him that Day, tho' he should never see his Face again. With a seeming Unwillingness, it was granted him; but then he must be very private, and not venture before eleven at Night, and then to come by the Back-door of the Garden, where a Servant should recieve him. So at his Hour he came, and at first sight of his Lordship breaks

out abruptly, That nothing but a Mat∣ter as dear unto him as his Life, should have forc'd him to break Rule, to offend his Lordship with his presence. And then in a very passionate manner he begs that he would obtain his Friend's Enlargement for him, who was newly taken up. And would you have me (says the Keeper) run such a Hazard, to set a Priest at Liberty, a Dead Man by our Statutes, when the Eye of the Parliament is so vigilant upon the Breach of Justice, especially in this kind, to the sadding of our Godly Men, who detest them that creep here out of Se∣minaries, above all Malefactors, because they come with an Intent to pervert them, who have liv'd in the Bosom of our Church.

My Lord (says Francisco) let not the Dread of this Parliament trouble you; for I can tell you, if you have not heard it, that it is upon Expiration.

By this means the Kee∣per was got into the Out-Works of the Project, and play'd so artificially with the Secretary, that he soon took the Main Fortress. He kept him with him till Two in the Morning; by which time he had pick'd out of him the Heads of all the Articles in the Paper convey'd be∣fore

into the King's Hand. And after this, to gratify him, he calls for the Pursivant (who was at hand) and or∣ders him immediately to free the Priest, but upon this Condition, that he should cross the Seas that Day, or the next, that so he might secure himself from danger in what he had done: And then the Lord Keeper and Don Francisco parted with much shew of Love on both sides, each having compass'd his Designs. By this time (I make account) my Reader cannot but smile, to see how dextrously the whole Bus'ness was manag'd; and how prettily and innocently too a Person of neat Wit may carry on his own Interest, when you would think he was earnest a∣bout another Man's Bus'ness; so con∣sistent are two contrary Motions at the same time in Policy, as well as in the Workings of Nature.

But to make an End of our Story: * 5.117 Soon as Francisco was gone, the Kee∣per fell to Recollecting the whole Conference that had pass'd between them. As fast as it occurr'd, he lay'd it down in Writing, and slept never a wink that Night, nor stirr'd out of the Room till Seven in the Morning;

by which time he had drawn up a fair Copy of the whole Matter; which he presented to the Prince immediately in St. James's, and told him. He had the Viper and her Brood in a Box. Upon this the Prince was for posting away for Windsor: Nay, Sir (says the Keeper) let your Highness be pleas'd to take my Peti∣tion along with you: Where is it? says the Prince. In my Mouth, replies he: for I humbly beg, that you will conceal me in all that I have done in this Mat∣ter; and as you tender my Life, to keep the Knowledge of this from your Father. I have committed two great Crimes in a Sworn Counsellor; First, to search into the King's Counsels, which he would should not be opened; Secondly, when I have found them out, to discover them, tho' to your Highness. So the Prince parting with him, gave him assurance of Secresy; and coming to Windsor, he shews Buckingham the Papers. Af∣ter * 5.118 which, they both desire immediate Admittance to his Majesty, which be∣ing granted, they present the Writing to him. He read it all deliberately, and often stopping, would say, 'Tis well, very well; and an enlivening Spi∣rit danc'd in his Eyes. Then he em∣brac'd

his Son and Buckingham, pro∣testing, he was very sorry, that a par∣cel of Traytors should ever make him jealous of them; but now that all was right again. And that you may know (says his Majesty) how little you shall pay me for Reconciliation, I ask no more, but to tell me who is your Engi∣neer, that struck these Sparks out of the Flint, and lighted the Candle, to find the Groat that was lost. The Prince was silent, and the Duke vow'd he knew not the Author. Well (says the King) I have a good Nostril, and will answer mine own Question; My Keeper had the main Finger in it; I dare swear it was he that bolted the Flower, and made it up into this Paist. Sir (says the Prince) I was precluded by my Promise not to reveal him, but I never promis'd to tell a lye for him: Your Majesty hath hit the Man. And GOD do him good for it (says the King) I need not tell you both what you ow him for his Service; and he hath done himself this Right with me, that I discern his Sufficiency more and more So by this Discovery the Keeper did not only do a signal Service to the Prince and Duke, but likewise to his Majesty; who 'tis ten

to one had quarrelled out-right with his Parliament, had he not been thus convinc'd of his groundless Fears.

You may gather from these and some other Passages, in this Part of the Life, how prudent and how service∣able a Counsellor he was to his Ma∣jesty, and to his great Patron and first Raiser, the Duke of Buckingham. And now I am upon this Part of his Cha∣racter, I will give you an Instance or two more of his Services to the Duke: by which put altogether, you may see how little he deserv'd the usage he af∣terwards receiv'd from his Hands.

In the Year 1622. the Jesuits had * 5.119 made (what they very much coveted) a Proselyte of the Countess of Buck∣ingham; and upon this the People were jealous that there was danger of the Duke's being influenc'd by his Mo∣ther, * 5.120 and so that from the Duke, the Contagion would seize his Majesty, and at last from the King, spread it self among the People. The Lord Keeper saw plainly how these Conclusions af∣fected the People, and multiplied their Discontents; which, for ought any one knew, might gather such a Head, as to prove fatal in the ensuing Parliament.

Therefore to secure his Majesty, and the Duke especially from being suspe∣cted, he advises him thus.

It is time * 5.121* 5.122 to let your Lordship know, That by the Countess your Mother's Depart∣ing from our Church, the Mouth of Clamour is open'd; That now the Recusants have a potent Advocate to plead for their Immunity, which will increase their Number. When this is bandy'd in the High and popular Court by Tribunitial Orators, what a Dust will it raise? Therefore to satisfy the People, your Mother must be invited or provoked to hear Debates between Learned Men, speaking to those Points of Controversy that have stagger'd her. Let her Ladiship bring her Cham∣pions with her. Entertain her with many of these Conferences: let them be solemn as can be devis'd, the King himself being ever present at the Di∣sputes; and the conflux of Great Per∣sons, as thick as the Place will permit. Let your Lordship's Industry and Ear∣nestness be conspicuous, to catch at every Twig of Advantage, much more to give Applause to every solid Rea∣son, which may bring your Mo∣ther Home to a Sound Mind again.

If her Ladiship recovers of her Un∣stableness by these Applications, you have won a Soul very precious to you, and will raise your self up into the Fame of a sincere Protestant. But if the Light within her be Darkness, and that she frustrate all Hopes of her Reparation, the Notice of your Lord∣ship's pious Endeavours will fill the Kingdom with a good Report.

The * 5.123 Duke follows the Advice; the Con∣ferences are set on foot, and his Ma∣jesty was Superintendent at them. Fisher the Jesuit being the Lady's Champion; he was oppos'd strongly by Dr. White, then Dean of Carlisle, but especially by Dr. Laud (as may be seen by the Controversy publish'd af∣ter) Bishop of St. David's; and the * 5.124 Lord Keeper (says his cold Friend Dr. Heylyn) put in a Word or two some∣times: But if we credit Bishop Hacket, in the Second Conference, the Lord Keeper manag'd a Formal Dispute with Fisher, as White did in the First, and Laud did in the Third. And why we have nothing of his extant con∣cerning this Controversy (as we have from both the other) Bishop Hacket gives us no Reason; except we will

be satisfy'd with what he says of the Keeper in another place, and upon an∣other Occasion; That he never wrote * 5.125 any thing with Intention to let the World see it, unless necessity constrain'd him. But for all the great Abilities and Learn∣ing * 5.126 of the Disputants on our side, the Lady remain'd still unconverted; ne∣vertheless the Duke gain'd his Point, and the Event was as the Keeper fore∣told it.

What I am going to mention next, if remembred by my Reader when he comes to the next Part, will give some small Insight into the Reasons of his declining in the Duke's Favour: For tho' it was on the Keeper's side a sin∣cere piece of Friendship, yet 'tis a Question whether the Duke took it as such. Buckingham, you know very well, had a Grudge against Spain; to fatisfy which he must needs make War upon it. All that he wanted was Mo∣ney, * 5.127 to maintain the War; and he saw * 5.128 no speedy way of raising such vast sums as he needed, but by compassing the sale of some of the Crown-Lands; which he was resolv'd to endeavour. The Keeper was at this time newly recover'd from a desperate Fever and

Flux, and durst not venture Abroad; therefore so soon as he heard what dangerous Courses the Duke was fall∣ing into, he sends him the following Letter, dated Octob. 21. 1623.

May it please your Grace,

I Hear a Whispering, rather than a Report, out of Westminster-Hall, that some great Alteration is presently to be made of the small Remainder of his Majesty's or rather the Crown-Land. Altho' I know not certainly, being unimploy'd and unprofitable, whether I ought to take notice hereof at all, or what to advise; yet pre∣suming upon that Favour I have ever found, and of late, as much as ever with your Grace, I have sent you this Ticket to read and burn. If there be any Resolution taken for the general Alteration of the Crown-Lands, yet this is not a convenient time to go about it.

First, Because there is not yet a Lord Treasurer, that it may be Christned to be his Act.

Secondly, Because it hath not been debated at the Council-Table; for

want of whose Advice, it will be ap∣propriated to be your Grace's Act.

Thirdly, It cannot be ripe for Exe∣cution, till the next Session of Par∣liament is dissolved; for otherwise it will undoubtedly serve as an Excuse for not granting Subsidies.

But setting those considerations of Delay aside, I humbly desire your Grace, that no Universal Alteration may be made of the Tenure of the Crown-Lands.

And First, Because the Money got thereby will be much, and will in∣stantly be gone.

Secondly, The Infamy in Chronicles will be eternal upon our most Gra∣cious Master.

Thirdly, The Prince cannot cordi∣ally assent thereunto; or if he do, it is impossible (his Wisdom considered) but that hereafter he should repent him, and much abhor the Authors and Actors of this Counsel.

Lastly, If the Prince should be of the same Mind with his Father, yet their Successors will have good pre∣tences to prosecute everlastingly the Names and Posterities of all such Ad∣visers.

Nor did the Freedom of the Kee∣per's * 6.1 Advice rest here; for when the * 6.2 Duke was much about the same time (in prosecution of his Designs to raise Money) set on to procure a sale of some Church-Lands, he then came out of his Chamber, to disswade his Lord∣ship from it by all means. But altho' the Keeper prevail'd for the present with his Arguments, yet one may rea∣sonably conclude, he got but little Good-will at the bottom from the Duke for all his Pains: for Great Men generally take wholsom Counsels, as one would a bitter Draught: We can∣not help making sour Faces at it, tho' we know it is for our Good. And thus I have done with the Keeper, consider'd in every Respect as a States∣man. And I shall only add a few Things more, that happen'd towards the lat∣ter end of King James's Reign, which to avoid Confusion I am forc'd to in∣sert here by themselves.

The peaceful Reign of King James * 6.3* 6.4 drew toward a Conclusion; when the Treaty about the Marriage with France was first set on foot. The Business had * 6.5 gone on for some time, before the L. Keeper's Advice was sought for. Ne∣vertheless,

as he studied the Spanish Language during that Negotiation, so now he took a Frenchman to be his Servant, and to assist him in attaining the French. And as in the former * 6.6 Treaty he had order'd a Translation of our Liturgy into Spanish by Taxeda, and printed it at his own cost; so now he got it turn'd into French by Mons. Delaun, Minister then of the French Church in Norwich. The Ambassa∣dors * 6.7 to our Court from France were the Marquess Fiatte, the Great Fin∣nancer, and Monsieur Villoclare, one of the Principal Secretaries. They had Audience from the King at Cambridge; who (after their Return to London) sent a Message to the L. Keeper to en∣tertain them and their Train, upon the Wednesday following; which (accord∣ing to their Computation by the New Style) was Christmas Day with them. So the Keeper sent to invite them to Sup * 6.8 with him: And the Entertainment was prepar'd in the Jerusalem-Chamber at Westminster College. But before Sup∣per, he gave them first an Episcopal Col∣lation; for the Ambassadors with all their Attendance were brought in at the North-Gate of the Abby, which

was stuck with Torches every where within and without. At the Door of the Quire, the Keeper desir'd their Lordships to go in, and seat themselves for a while, assuring them that nothing should be done that might be in the least offensive to them. So the Am∣bassadors with their Train fill'd the Stalls, where they continued about half an Hour, while Choiristers in their richest Habits, sung three Anthems; during which time they all stood un∣cover'd, excepting Monsieur Villoclare. While a Verse was playing, the Keeper * 6.9 presented the Ambassadors, and those of the best Quality that were with them, with our Liturgy in their own Language; saying at the Delivery of the Books,

That their Lordships at their Leisure might read in that Book, in what Form of Holiness our Prince worship'd GOD; wherein he durst say, nothing savour'd of any Corru∣ption of Doctrine, much less of He∣resy, which he hoped would be so reported to the Lady Princess Hen∣rietta.

After this, when they went out, they took all their Books along with them, except Villoclare, and his was brought after him, as if he had forgot it.

There was at this Time present a * 6.10 Gentleman that held an Abbacy in a Lay-Capacity; who, after he had read over our Prayer-Book, had a great Mind to be present in Westminster Abby, upon Christmas Day in the Morning, that he might see and hear how we solemniz'd that great Feast, for which we were so much blam'd Abroad. Whereas our Common-Prayer * 6.11 Book, tho' it was not imbroidered so thick with Ceremonies, yet he thought it wanted not such as might give a Decency to our Service. But least he might give Offence to any of his own Party, he desir'd he might be plac'd where no Body could see him, and that he might have an Interpreter of the Liturgy to assist him. The Lord Keeper was forward to meet him in his Request; and a place was contriv'd a-loft for him, with a Lattice and Curtains to conceal him. His Lord∣ship perform'd all the Service of the Day himself, that it might be done with greater Decency. And after, * 6.12 when they came to discourse about it, the Abbot said, he perceiv'd that we had been basely traduc'd, and that all he had heard of us was false.

And tho'

I deplore your Schism (says he) from the Catholick Church, yet I should bare false Witness, if I did not confess, that your Decency, which I observ'd at that holy Duty, was very allowable in the Consecrator and Receivers.

So, after some further Conferences * 6.13 upon these Matters, they parted with mutual Smiles and Embraces. I have dwelt the longer upon this Narra∣tion, to shew not only the Credit that was done to our Church and Liturgy by the Keeper, but likewise to let my Reader see, what little Reason there is to suspect him for one that stood not well affected to our Church Discipline.

As the Court of Spain, during the * 6.14 Treaty with them, took the Oppor∣tunity of Mediating in behalf of the Papists in England; so likewise now Mr. Villoclare (a great Zealot) was set on by them, to make large and unrea∣sonable Demands in Favour of them, and to press the granting of his Requests home, as one of the main Conditions to compleat the Match. The Courtiers * 6.15 perceiving the Eagerness of Villoclare to obtain his Ends, and being not will∣ing to expose themselves to his Displea∣sure, shifted him off from themselves,

and told him, That they could give no positive Answer to his Demand, till he had spoken with the L. Keeper, whose Duty it was to examine such things upon his peril, which were fit, or not fit for the King's Conscience, Honour and Safety, before the Great Seal were put to any Thing. And this gave oc∣casion * 6.16 to the Famous long Debate be∣tween the Keeper and the French Am∣bassador, wherein the Keeper gave him such solid Reasons against the Dispen∣sing with our Penal Laws against Ro∣mish Priests. A Copy of which Con∣ference the King order'd the Keeper to draw up for him; which he did ac∣cordingly, it being the last Present he * 6.17 made him in that kind. Which Pa∣pers, when his Majesty had perus'd them, gave him (as he us'd to say) more Satisfaction than he could have expected.

The King now perceiving some In∣disposition * 6.18 in his Health, retires to Theobalds for fresh Air, and to divert himself from Bus'ness. On Tuesday, being the 22. of March, the L. Keeper receiv'd Notice in a Letter from the Court, that it was fear'd his Majesty's Sickness was Mortal. Upon this he

comes to Theobalds, and presenting * 6.19 himself before the King, he endea∣vour'd to divert him, and bring him to chearful Discourse, but all in vain. So he continued by his Bed-side till Mid-night, but found no comfort. And next Morning, after the Consul∣tation of the Physicians, he saw no hopes at all left; so that immediately (like a faithful Chaplain) he desir'd of the Prince, that he might acquaint his Father with his weak Condition, and put him in Mind both of his Mor∣tality and Immortality. And having the Prince's Consent, he went into his * 6.20 Majesty's Chamber; and kneeling down, told his Majesty,

That he knew he should neither displease him, nor discourage him, if he brought Isaiah's Message to Hezekiah, to set his House in order; for he thought his Days to come would be but few in this World.

I am satisfied (replies the King) and I pray you assist me to make me ready to go away hence to CHRIST, whose Mercies I call for, and I hope to find them. From this time the Keeper watch'd with his Majesty con∣tinually, and never so much as put off his Cloaths, to go to Bed, till after

his Royal Master's Death; which was visible enough in his Looks, on Sunday Night, when he return'd to West∣minster. His whole Bus'ness was Night * 6.21 and Day (except when the Physicians compos'd his Majesty to Rest) to pray, and read, and to discourse about Re∣pentance, Faith, Remission of Sins, Resurrection, and Eternal Life. This was the Preparation on Wednesday, for the Blessed Sacrament on Thursday. Upon Friday his Majesty grew sensi∣bly weaker; so that now the Keeper stir'd very little out of the Chamber, and that not only to comfort the de∣parting King, but likewise to keep off some of the Romish Church, that crept much about the Chamber-door; whom as a Privy-Counsellor he commanded to keep at greater Distance. Being rid of these, he was now continually in Prayer, while the King linger'd on; and at last his Soul departing, the * 6.22 Keeper clos'd his Eyes with his own Hands. Thus died King James at * 6.23 Theobalds, on the 27^th of March, being Sunday. From thence his Body was * 6.24 brought to Somerset-House, and car∣ried thence in great State, on Saturday the 7^th of May to St. Peter's Church in

Westminster, where it was solemnly interr'd: And the Funeral Sermon * 6.25 preach'd by the Lord Keeper Williams, and printed not long after, by the Name of Great-Britain's Solomon.

Thus I have at last brought the L. Keeper Williams through great Ho∣nours, and much Fatigue and Bus'ness to the Period at once of King James's Reign, and his own Prosperity. And (if the Living Man may with any rea∣son complain) well had it been for him too, had he never liv'd to see those Days, which the following Scene will represent to my Reader.

The End of the Second Part.

Notes

• * 1.1

  The Design of this Part.
• * 1.2

  The means by which he gained Lord Eger∣ton's Fa∣vour.
• * 1.3

  (27)
• * 1.4

  (28.)
• * 1.5

  (29.)
• * 1.6

  He encou∣rages Me∣rit, and de∣fends the injured Clergy.
• * 1.7

  Makes his own Iterest, so that the Lord Eger∣ton prefers him.
• * 1.8

  (30.)
• * 1.9

  Lord Eger∣ton falls sick.
• * 1.10

  Dies.
• * 1.11

  Wilson. Hist. Gr. Brit. p. 97.
• * 1.12

  (31.)
• * 1.13

  He gave him four Books (says Da. Lloyd, in his Life of the ABp) which he presented after to the King.
• * 1.14

  Cabal. pag. 236. Wilson Hist. Gr. Brit. p. 97.
• * 1.15

  Sir Fr. Ba∣con made L. Keeper.
• * 1.16

  Mr. Wil∣liams re∣fuses to be his Chap∣lain.
• * 1.17

  Is made Chaplain in Ordinary to the King.
• * 1.18

  (32.)
• * 1.19

  Takes his Doctors Degree.
• * 1.20

  (32.)
• * 1.21

  Retires to Walgrave.
• * 1.22

  (35.)
• * 1.23

  Preaches before the King at Theobalds
• * 1.24

  (36.)
• * 1.25

  Is made Dean of Salisbury.
• * 1.26

  (38.)
• * 1.27

  Bucking∣ham the King's Fa∣vourite.
• * 1.28

  (41.)
• * 1.29

  Williams applies himself to him.
• * 1.30

  His Rea∣sons why he did it not before.
• * 1.31

  (39.)
• * 1.32

  (40.)
• * 1.33

  (41.)
• * 1.34

  Bucking∣ham courts Kat. Man∣ners.
• * 1.35

  History of Gr. Brit. p. 149.
• * 1.36

  Dr. Wil∣liams for∣wards the Match.
• * 1.37

  (42.)
• * 1.38

  Converts the Lady: and writes a little Treatise to confirm her.
• * 1.39

  (43.)
• * 2.1

  His Letter to the Mar∣quess sent with the Treatise.
• * 2.2

  Is made Dean of Westmin∣ster.
• * 2.3

  (44.)
• * 3.1

  His Letter to petition for the Deanery.
• * 3.2

  This Pre∣ferment lucky to him.
• * 3.3

  (47.)
• * 3.4

  (48.)
• * 3.5

  K. calls a Parlia∣ment An. 1620.
• * 3.6

  (49.)
• * 3.7

  They re∣dress Grie∣vances.
• * 3.8

  Some that were in danger, try to get it dis∣solv'd.
• * 3.9

  Frankl. Annals, p. 52.
• * 3.10

  The Mar∣quess at a loss what to do, till the Dean advis'd him.
• * 3.11

  (50.)
• * 3.12

  Frankl. Annals, p. 52.
• * 3.13

  The Marq. thanks him for his Ad∣vice; and the King approving of it, makes him Privy-Counsellor.
• * 3.14

  (51.)
• * 3.15

  Stow's Chron.
• * 3.16

  The Par∣liament is prorogu'd.
• * 3.17

  Bacon is depos'd.
• * 3.18

  The Kee∣per's Place much sought for.
• * 3.19

  (52.)
• * 4.1

  The Dean's Account of the Re∣venues of that Office.
• * 4.2

  The Mar∣quess shews it to the King, who pitches on the Dean for that Office..
• * 4.3

  Cabal. p. 409.
• * 4.4

  P. 138, 139.
• * 4.5

  The Dean is sworn L. Keeper.
• * 4.6

  (61.)
• * 4.7

  Rushw. Hist. Coll. part 1. p. 36.
• * 5.1

  Makes a Speech.
• * 5.2

  (62.)
• * 5.3

  The K. ap∣proves of him.
• * 5.4

  (59.)
• * 5.5

  People sur∣priz'd at his Advance∣ment.
• * 5.6

  Court and Ch. p. 140. The Seal formerly in the Hands of the Cler∣gy. Sanderson Hist. of K. James, l. 2. p. 504.
• * 5.7

  P. 505.
• * 5.8

  The Dean's Caution to avoid En∣vy.
• * 5.9

  (60.)
• * 5.10

  (61.)
• * 5.11

  (55.)
• * 5.12

  Objections against a Clergy∣man's be∣ing Lord Keeper, an∣swer'd.
• * 5.13

  (56.)
• * 5.14

  (62.)
• * 5.15

  He is made Bishop of Lincoln, and holds his other Prefer∣ments too.
• * 5.16

  Cypr. Ang. p. 86.
• * 5.17

  (63.)
• * 5.18

  Laudmade Bishop of St. David's by Wil∣liams's In∣terest.
• * 5.19

  (64.)
• * 5.20

  The Keep∣er's Dili∣gence in his Office.
• * 5.21

  (53.)
• * 5.22

  (54.)
• * 5.23

  (7.)
• * 5.24

  (71.)
• * 5.25

  His En∣trance upon his Office.
• * 5.26

  (72.)
• * 5.27

  His Speech.
• * 5.28

  (73.)
• * 5.29

  (74.)
• * 5.30

  His well or∣dering of the Court of Chan∣cery.
• * 5.31

  (76.)
• * 5.32

  (200.)
• * 5.33

  His De∣crees never cancel'd.
• * 5.34

  (201.)
• * 5.35

  Masters his Passion.
• * 5.36

  His great Dispatch in Bus'ness.
• * 5.37

  (74.)
• * 5.38

  (75.)
• * 5.39

  (76.)
• * 5.40

  His Pro∣ceedings in the Star-Chamber.
• * 5.41

  (82.)
• * 5.42

  (83.)
• * 5.43

  (84.)
• * 5.44

  (201.)
• * 5.45

  Cabal. p. 409. He num∣bers up Nine Pre∣ferments, which he had when he was Dean of Westmin∣ster.
• * 5.46

  Co. & Ch. p. 139.
• * 5.47

  (105.)
• * 5.48

  (106.)
• * 5.49

  (107.)
• * 5.50

  Cabal. p. 292.
• * 5.51

  (70, 71.)
• * 5.52

  (207.)
• * 5.53

  (208.)
• * 5.54

  His Con∣duct in Parlia∣ment.
• * 5.55

  (76.)
• * 5.56

  Rush. Col∣lect. p. 39. An. 1621.
• * 5.57

  The Keeper gives his Reasons why the Nobility should not swear by their Ho∣nour.
• * 5.58

  (77.)
• * 5.59

  The Bishops affronted by some Lords Tem∣poral.
• * 5.60

  The Keeper speaks for them.
• * 5.61

  (81.)
• * 5.62

  The King and Com∣mons dis∣agree. Rush. Col∣lect. p. 40, 41, &c. Cabal. p. 288.
• * 5.63

  Rush. Col∣lect. p. 54.
• * 5.64

  An. 1621. Stow Chr.
• * 5.65

  Lord Cran∣field made L. Treasu∣rer.
• * 5.66

  (104.)
• * 5.67

  Cranfield endeavours to ruin the Keeper.
• * 5.68

  Cabal. p. 292.
• * 5.69

  P. 292. The Keeper clears him∣self from his Accu∣sations.
• * 5.70

  P. 295.
• * 5.71

  (175.)
• * 5.72

  A Call of Serjeants.
• * 5.73

  (110.)
• * 5.74

  Fifteen, ac∣cording to Stow.
• * 5.75

  (175.)
• * 5.76

  (179.)
• * 5.77

  The Keeper desir'd to repeat the Duke's Account of the Spanish Treaty to the Parlia∣ment.
• * 5.78

  The Duke is pleas'd with the Narration of it.
• * 5.79

  (185.)
• * 5.80

  (186.)
• * 5.81

  The Kee∣per's care to preserve Agreement between King and People.
• * 5.82

  Cyprianus Angl. p. 123.
• * 5.83

  The occa∣sion of Treasurer Cranfield's Disgrace.
• * 5.84

  (186.)
• * 5.85

  The Keep∣er's Advice to the King about the Treasurer.
• * 5.86

  The Trea∣surer is fin'd and imprison'd.
• * 5.87

  Stow's Chron.
• * 5.88

  The Letter is in Bishop Hacket.
• * 5.89

  (110.)
• * 5.90

  His Advice concerning the Gene∣ral Pardon for the Pa∣pists.
• * 5.91

  Cabal. p. 297.
• * 5.92

  An Ac∣count of the Keeper as a Privy Counsellor
• * 5.93

  (84.)
• * 5.94

  The Rules he follow'd in Council.
• * 5.95

  (85.)
• * 5.96

  The King advises with the Keeper a∣bout the Match with Spain.
• * 5.97

  (115.)
• * 5.98

  An. 1623.
• * 5.99

  The Keeper furthers it, and be∣friends Bucking∣ham.
• * 5.100

  (117.)
• * 5.101

  The Letters are in Hac∣ket, p. 16, 17, &c.
• * 5.102

  (119.)
• * 5.103

  (117.)
• * 5.104

  (208.)
• * 5.105

  The Kee∣per's Ad∣vice to the King about a Provision for the Palsgrave's Children.
• * 5.106

  (209.)
• * 5.107

  Inoiosa's Plot a∣gainst the Prince and Duke.
• * 5.108

  (195.)
• * 5.109

  There is a a Copy of it in Hacket.
• * 5.110

  (196.)
• * 5.111

  The King jealous of the Prince and Duke.
• * 5.112

  (197.)
• * 5.113

  The Keep∣er's Ad∣vice to the Duke.
• * 5.114

  The Prince consults the Keeper, who detects the whole Plot.
• * 5.115

  (198.)
• * 5.116

  A signal Instance of the Keeper's Policy.
• * 5.117

  The Keeper having di∣scover'd Inoiosa's Plot, ac∣quaints the Prince with it. Cabal. p. 300.
• * 5.118

  The King is recon∣cil'd to the Prince and Duke.
• * 5.119

  The Coun∣tess of Bucking∣ham turns a Papist. Cypr. Ang. p. 100.
• * 5.120

  (171.)
• * 5.121

  (172.)
• * 5.122

  The Keep∣er's Advice to the Duke about his Mother.
• * 5.123

  Laud, Wil∣liams and White dis∣pute against Fisher the Jesuit.
• * 5.124

  Cypr. Ang. p. 101.
• * 5.125

  (35.)
• * 5.126

  (173.)
• * 5.127

  (202.)
• * 5.128

  The Keeper disswades the Duke from sell∣ing the Crown-Lands.
• * 6.1

  (203, 204, &c.)
• * 6.2

  The Keeper disswades the Duke from sell∣ing Church Lands.
• * 6.3

  (209.)
• * 6.4

  A Treaty of Marri∣age with France.
• * 6.5

  An. 1624.
• * 6.6

  The Keeper gets our Li∣turgy tran∣slated into French.
• * 6.7

  (210.)
• * 6.8

  The Keeper entertains the French Ambassa∣dors.
• * 6.9

  Presents them with our Litur∣gy.
• * 6.10

  An Abbot has the Cu∣riosity to be present at our Divine Service.
• * 6.11

  (211.)
• * 6.12

  And he ap∣proves of our Wor∣ship.
• * 6.13

  (212.)
• * 6.14

  Villoclare petitions for Immu∣nities for the Papists.
• * 6.15

  (213.)
• * 6.16

  The Confe∣rence is all in Bishop Hacket, p. 213, to 222.
• * 6.17

  (222.)
• * 6.18

  The King falls sick.
• * 6.19

  The Keeper attends him.
• * 6.20

  Adver∣tises him of his Death.
• * 6.21

  (223.)
• * 6.22

  The King dies.
• * 6.23

  Cypr. Ang. p. 130.
• * 6.24

  An. 1625.
• * 6.25

  The Text was out of the II of Chron. c. 9. v. 29. 30. & part of 31.