CHAP. I.
The Witches bargain with the Devil, according to M. Mal. Bodin, Nider, Danae∣us, Psellus, Erastus, Hemingius, Cumanus, Aquinas, Bartholomaeus, Spi∣neus, &c.
THat which in this matter of Witchcraft hath abused so many, and seemeth both so horrible and intolerable, is a plain bargain, that (they say) is made betwixt the devil and the Witch. And ma∣ny of great learning conceive it to be a matter of truth, and in their writings publish it accordingly; the which (by Gods grace) shall be proved as vain and false as the rest.
The order of their bargain or profession is double; the one solemn and pulick, the other secret and private. That which is called solemn or publick, is where Witches come together at certain assemblies, at the times pre∣fixed, and do not only see the Devil in visible form; but confer and talk familiar∣ly with him. In which conference the Devil exhorteth them to observe their fidelity unto him, promising them long life and prosperity. Then the Witches assembled, commend a new disciple (whom they call a novice) unto him: and if the Devil find that young Witch apt and forward in renunciation of Christian Faith, in despising any of the seven Sacraments, in treading upon Crosses, it spit∣ting at the time of the elevation, in breaking their fast on fasting-daies, and fasting on Sundaies; the Devil giveth forth his hand, and the novice joyning hand in hand with him, promiseth to observe and keep all the Devils comman∣dements.
This done, the Devil beginneth to be more bold with her, telling her plain∣ly, that all this will not serve his turn; and therefore requireth homage at her hands: yea he also telleth her, that she must grant him both her body and soul to be tormented in everlasting fire; which she yieldeth unto: Then he chargeth her, to procure as many men, women, and children also, as she can, to enter into this society. Then he teacheth them to make ointments of the bowels and members of children, whereby they ride in the air, and accomplish all their desires: So as, if there be any children unbaptized, or not guarded with the sign of the cross, or orizons; then the Witches may and do catch them from their mothers sides in the night, or out of their cradles, or otherwise kill them with their ceremonies; and after burial steal them out of their graves, and seeth them in a chaldron, until their flesh be made potable. Of the thickest whereof they make ointments, whereby they ride in the air, but the thinner potion they put into flaggons, whereof whosoever drinketh, observing cer∣tain ceremonies, immediately becometh a master, or rather a mistress in that practise and faculty.