Actes and monuments of matters most speciall and memorable, happenyng in the Church. [vol. 1] with an vniuersall history of the same, wherein is set forth at large the whole race and course of the Church, from the primitiue age to these latter tymes of ours, with the bloudy times, horrible troubles, and great persecutions agaynst the true martyrs of Christ, sought and wrought as well by heathen emperours, as nowe lately practised by Romish prelates, especially in this realme of England and Scotland. Newly reuised and recognised, partly also augmented, and now the fourth time agayne published and recommended to the studious reader, by the author (through the helpe of Christ our Lord) Iohn Foxe, which desireth thee good reader to helpe him with thy prayer.

¶ Iohn Badby Artificer.

IN the yeare of our Lord. 1409. on Sonday beyng the first day of March, in the afternoone: The excommuni∣cation following of one Iohn Badby Taylour, beyng a lay man, was made in a certaine house or haull within the precinct of the preaching friers in Londō, in an vtter cloi∣ster: vpon the crime of heresie & other articles, repugnant to the determinatiō of the erroneous church of Rome, be∣fore Thomas Arundel Archbishop of Canterbury and o∣ther his assistants, as y^• Archbishop of Yorke, of London, of Winchester, of Oxford, of Norwich, of Salisbury, of Bath, of Bangor, Et meneuensis Episcopi, and also Edmond Duke of Yorke, Thomas Bewford, the Chauncelour of England, Lord de Roos, the clerke of the rolles, & a great number of other Lords, both spirituall and temporall be∣ing then at the selfesame time present: Maister Morgan read the articles of his opinions to the hearers, according as it is contemed in the instrument read by the foresayd M. Morgan, the tenour whereof followeth and in effect is such.

In the name of God, Amen: Be it manifest to all men by this present publike instrument, that in the yeare after the incarnation of our Lord, according to y^• course and cō∣putation of the Church of England, otherwise in the yere 1409. in the second indictiō, in the third yeare of the Pope∣dome of the most holy father in Christ & Lord, Lord Gre∣gory xi. by y^t diuine permission Pope, the secōd day of Ia∣nuary, in the Chappell Caruariae of S. Thomas Martyr, high vnto the Cathedrall Church of Worcester, being si∣tuate in the said Dioces, in the presence of me the publicke Notary, and of the witnesses vnder written: the foresayd

Iohn Badby a lay man, of the sayd Dioces of Worcester, appearing personally, before the reuerend father in Christ and Lord, Lord Thomas, by the grace of God Byshop of Worcester, sitting in y^e said Chappell for chiefe Iudge, was detected of and vpon the crime of heresie, being heretically taught, & openly maintayned by the foresayd Iohn Bad∣by. That is, that the Sacrament of the body of Christ, con∣secrated by the Priest vpon the aulter, is not the true body of Christ, by the vertue of the wordes of the Sacrament. But that after the Sacramentall words spoken by the Priest to make the body of Christ: the materiall bread doth remaine vpon the aulter as in the beginning, neither is it turned into the very body of Christ after the Sacramental words spoken of the Priest. Which Iohn Badby, being examined and diligently demanded by the foresaid reuerēd father cōcerning the premisses, in the end did answere: that it was impossible that any Priest should make the body of Christ, & that he beleued firmely that no Priest could make the body of Chrst by such words Sacramentally spoken in such sort. And also he said expressely, that he would neuer while he liued beleue, that any Priest could make the body of Christ sacramentally, vnlesse that first he saw manifest∣lie the like body of Christ to be handled in the hands of the priest vpon the aulter, in his corporall forme. And further∣more he sayd, that Iohn Rakier of Bristoll had so much power & authoritie to make the like body of Christ, as any priest had. Moreouer he said, that whē Christ sat at supper with his disciples: he had not his body in his hand, to the intent to distribute it to his disciples: and he said expresly, that he did not this thing. And also he spake many other words teaching & fortifieng the heresie in the same place, both greeuous, and also out of order, and horrible to the eares of the hearers, sounding against the Catholike faith.

Upon which occasion, the same reuerend father admo∣nished and requested the said Iohn Badby oftentimes, and very instantlie to charity: for so much as he would willinglie that he should haue forsaken such heresie and o∣pinion, holden, taught, and mainteined by him, in such sort against the Sacrament, to renounce and vtterly abiure them, and to beleeue other things which the holy mother the Church doth beleeue. And he informed the said Iohn on that behalfe both gentlie, and also laudably. Yet the said Iohn Badby, although he were admonished and re∣quested both often and instantlie by the said reuerend fa∣ther: said and answered expresselie, that he would neuer beleeue otherwise then before he had said, taught, and an∣swered. Wherevpon, the foresaid reuerend father Bishop of Worcester, seeing, vnderstanding, and perceiuing the foresaid Iohn Badby to maintaine and fortifie the said be∣resie, being stubborne, and proceeding in the same stubbor∣nes: pronounced the said Iohn to be before this time con∣uicted of such an heresie, and that he hath bin, and is an he∣reticke, and in the end declared it in these words.

In the name of God, Amen. We Thomas Bishop of Wor∣cester, do accuse thee Iohn Badby being a lay man of our Dioces, of and vpon the crime of heresie before vs, sitting for cheese iudge, being oftentimes confessed and conuicted of and vpon that, that thou hast taught and openly affirmed, as hetherto thou doest teach, boldly affirme, and defend: that the Sacrament of the body of Christ, consecrated vpon the aulter by the Priest, is not the true body of Christ: But after the Sacramental words to make the body of Christ by vertue of the said Sacramentall words pro∣nounced, to haue bin in the crime of heresie: and we do pro∣nounce thee, both to haue bene, and to be an heretike, and do de∣clare it finallie by these writings.

These things were done accordingly as is aboue writ∣ten and are recited in the yeare, indiction, popedome, mo∣neth, day and place aforesaid, being present the same time, Iohn Malune Prior of the Cathedrall Church of Worce∣ster, Iohn Dudle Mōke, and Iohn Haule the supprior of the said Church, Thomas Penings of the order of the Carmelites, Thomas Fekenham of the order of the prea∣ching Friers, William Pomfret of the order of the Mino∣rites, being professors and maisters in diuinitie, William Hailes, Gualter of London, Iohn Swippedew beeing publique Notaries, and William Beuchampe and Tho∣mas Gerbris being Knights, Richard wish of Treding∣ton, Thomas Wilbe of Dentbury, Iohn Weston of Yew∣ley, being parsons of Churches, and Thomas Baleinges, the maister of Saint Wolstone in Worcester, and also Henry Haggely, Iohn Penerell, Thomas Trogmorton and William Wasseborne Esquiers of the Dioces of Wor∣cester and Norwich, and many other worshipfull and ho∣nest men being witnesses and called speciallye to the things aforesaid.

And I Iohn Chew Clerke, of the Dioces of Bath and Welles, and by the authoritie apostolicall, publique Nota∣rie of the said Bishop: haue in testimonie of the premisses, put my hand & seale to the examination, interrogatiō, mo∣nition, and aunswere of the same Iohn Badby, and to his obstinacie: & also to the procedings of al and singular other doings as is aforesaid, which against him before the sayd bishop were handled & done, in the yeare, indiction, pope∣dome, moneth, day, and place aforesaid, which with the forenamed witnesses was personally present: and y^• same, euen as I heard them and saw them to be done (being oc∣cupied with other matters) caused them to be written and published, and into this publique forme haue compiled the same. I the foresayd Notary am also priuie, vnto the words and examinations interlined betweene seauen or eight lines of y^• beginning of this instrument, which lines I also the foresaide Notary doe approoue and make good.

And I Walter London Clerke, of the Dioces of Wor∣cester, and by the authoritie Apostolicall, publique Nota∣rie: to all and singular the foresaid things as afore by the foresaid Notary is recited, & in the yeare, indiction, pope∣dome, moneth, day, and place aforesaid were handled and done, being with other the fore recited witnesses personal∣ly present: and to all & euery of the same (as I saw & heard them to be done, being thereunto faithfully desired and re∣quired.) In testimony of the premisses, haue signed & sub∣scribed according to y^e accustomed maner. Haec ex Reg. Cant.

And when the articles, in the foresaid instrument con∣tained, were by the Archbishop of Canterbury publiquely and vulgarly read and approued: he publiquely cōfessed & affirmed, that he had both said and mainteined the same. And then the Archbishop to conuince the cōstant purpose of the said Iohn Badby, commanded the same articles a∣gaine to be read, often instructing him both by words and examples, informing and exhorting him that thereby he might be brought the sooner to the Religion that he was of. And furthermore, the said Archbyshop sayd and affir∣med there openly to the same Iohn: that he would (if he would liue according to the doctrine of Christ) gage his soule for him at the iudgement day. And after that againe he caused those articles in the said instrument expressed, to be read by the foresaid Phillip Morgan, & the said Arch∣byshop himselfe expounded the same in English as before: wherunto Iohn Badby aunswered. As touching the first article concerning the body of Christ, he expresly sayd, that after y^e consecration at the aulter, there remaineth materi∣all bread, & the same bread which was before: notwithstā∣ding (said he) it is a signe or sacrament of the liuing God.

Also; wen the second article was expounded vnto him, that it is impossible for anie Priest &c. To this article he answered and said, that it could not sinke into his minde that the words are to be taken as they litterallie lie, vnles he should denie the incarnation of Christ.

Also, being examined of the third Article concerning Iacke Raker, he said: That if Iacke Raker were a man of good liuing, and did loue and feare God, that he hath as much power so to do, as hath the Priest: and said further, that he hath heard it spoken of some doctors of diuinitie, that if he should receiue any such consecrated bread, he were worthy to be damned, & were damned in so doing.

Furthermore he sayd that he would beleue the omnipo∣tent God in trusitie, and said moreouer that if euery hoste being consecrated at the aulter were the Lords body, that then there be 20000. gods in England. But he beleeued (he said) in one God omnipotent, which thing the fore∣said Archb. of Cant. denied not.

And when the other conclusion was expounded. That Christ sitting with his Disciples at supper, &c. To this he answered and said that he would greatly maruell: that if anie man had a loafe of bread, and should breake the same and giue to euery man a mouthfull, that the same loafe should afterwards be whole.

When all these things were thus finished, and that all the said conclusions were often red in the vulgar tong: the foresaid Archb. demaunded of him, whether he would re∣nounce and forsake his opiniōs and such like conclusions or not, and adhere to the doctrine of Christ and Catholike faith? He answered, that according to that he had sayd be∣fore, he would adhere and stand to those words, which be∣fore he had made answere vnto. Then the Archb. often∣times required the said Iohn in the bowels of Iesu Christ that he would forsake those opinions and conclusions, and that hencefoorth he would cleane to the christian faith: which thing to do in the audience of all the lords and o∣thers that were present, he expresly denied and refused.

After all this, when the foresayd Archbishop of Cant. & the Bishop of London had consulted together, to what safe keping the said Iohn Badby (vntill the wednesdaie next) might be committed: It was cōcluded, that he shold

be put in a certaine chamber or safe house within the Man∣sion of the Frier preachers, and so he was: and then the Archbishop of Caunterbury sayd, that he himselfe would kepe the key therof, in the meane time. And when the fore∣sayd wednesday was expired, being the 15. day of March, and that the foresayd Archbishop of Canterbury, with hys fellow brethren and Suffraganes were assembled in the Church of S. Paule in London: The Archbish. of Can∣terbury taking the Episcopall seate, called vnto him the Archbishop of Yorke, Richard London, Henry Winche∣ster, Robert Chichester, Alexander Norwich, & the noble prince Edmond the Duke of Yorke, Rafe Earle of West∣merland, Thomas Beaufort Knight Lord Chancellour of England, and the Lord Beamond with other noble men as well spirituall as temporall, that stood and sate by, whome to name it would be long: Before whome the said Iohn Badby was called personallie to answere vnto the Articles premised in the foresaid instrument. Who when he came personallie before them, the articles were read by the Officiall of the court of Cant. and by the Archb. (in the vulgare tong) expounded, publikely and expresly: and the same Articles, as he before had spoken and deposed, he still held and defended, and said, that whilest he liued, he would neuer retract the same. And furthermore he said specially to to be noted, that the Lord duke of Yorke personallie there present as is aforesaid, and euery man els for the time bee∣ing: is of more estimation and reputation, then the Sacra∣ment of the aulter, by the priest in due forme consecrated. And whilest they were thus in his examination, the Arch∣bishop considering and waying that he would in no wise be altered, and seing moreouer his countenance stout and hart confirmed, so that he began to persuade other as it ap∣peared in the same: These things considered, the Archpre∣late whē he saw that by his allurements it was not in his power, neither by exhortations, reasons, nor arguments, to bring the said Iohn Badbye from his constant truth to his Catholique faith (executing and doing the office of his great maister) proceeded to confirme and ratifie the former sentence giuen before by the Bishop of Worcester against the said Iohn Badby, pronouncing him for an open and publique hereticke. And thus shifting their hands of him, they deliuered him to the secular power: and desi∣red the sayd temporall Lords, then and there present verie instantlie, that they would not put the same Iohn Badby to death for that his offence, nor deliuer him to be punished or put to death, in y^• presence of all the Lordsabone recited.

These things thus done and concluded by the Bishops in the forenoone: on the afternoone, the Kings writte was not far behind. By the force wherof, I. Badby still perse∣uering in his constancie vnto the death, was brought into Smithfield, and there being put in an emptie barrell, was bound with iron chaines fastened to a stake, hauing drie wood put about him.

And as he was thus standing in the pipe or tonne (for as yet Cherillus Bull was not in vre among the bishops) it happened that the Prince the kings eldest sonne, was there present. Who shewing some part of the good Sama∣ritane, began to endeuour and assay how to saue the life of him, whome the hypocriticall Leuites and Phariseis sought to put to death. He admonished and counsailed him, that hauing respect vnto himselfe, he should spedelie withdraw himselfe out of these dangerous Laberinths of opinions, adding oftentimes threatnings, the which might haue daunted anie mans stomacke. Also Courtney at that time Chancellor of Oxford, preached vnto him, and enformed him of the faith of holie Church.

In this meane season, the Prior of S. Bartlemewes in Smithfield, brought with all solemnitie the Sacrament of Gods body, with twelue torches borne before, and so she∣wed the Sacrament to the poore man being at the stake. And then they demanded of him how he beleeued in it, he answering: that he knew well it was halowed bread, and not gods body. And then was the tunne put ouer him, and fire put vnto him. And when he felt fire, he cried, mer∣cie (calling belike vpon the Lord) and so the Prince imme∣diatelie commanded to take awaie the tunne, and quench the fire. The Prince his commandement being done, asked him if he would forsake heresie to take him to the faith of holie Church: which thing if he would doo, he should haue goods inough, promising also vnto him a yearelie stipend out of the kings treasurie, so much as should suffice his contentation.

But this valiant champion of Christ, neglecting the princes faire words, as also contemning all mens deuises: refused the offer of worldly promises, no doubt, but being more vehemently inflamed with y^• spirit of God then with anie earthly desire. Wherfore, whē as yet he continued vn∣moueable in his former mind, the prince commanded him straight to be put again into the pipe or tunne, and that he should not afterward looke for any grace or fauour. But as he could be allured by no rewards, euē so was he nothing at all abashed at their torments, but as a valiant champi∣on of Christ, he perseuered inuincible to y^e end. Not with∣out a great and most cruell battayle, but with much more greater triumph of victorie: the spirit of Christ hauing al∣waies the vpper hand in his members, maugre the furie,

[illustration]

¶ The description of the horrible burning of Iohn Badby, and how he was vsed at hys death.

rage, and power of the whole world. For the manifestati∣on of which torment, wee haue here set forth the picture of his burning, in such maner as it was done.

This godly Martyr Iohn Badby hauing thus con∣summate his testimony and martyrdome in fire, the perse∣cuting Bishops yet not herewith contented, and think∣ing themselues as yet eyther not strong inough, or els not sharpe enough agaynst tht poore innocent flock of Christ: to make all thinges sure and substantiall on theyr side, in such sorte, as this doctrine of the Gospell nowe springing should be suppressed for euer: layd theyr conspiring heads together, & hauing now a king for theyr own purpose, rea¦dy to serue theyr turn in all poynts (during the time of the same Parliamēt aboue recited yet cōtinuing) the foresayd bishops and clergy of the realme, exhibited a Bul vnto the kings maiestie: subtily declaring, what quietnes hath ben mayntayned within this realme by his most noble proge∣nitours, who alwayes defended the auncient rites and customes of the Church, and enriched the same with large gifts, to the honor of God and the realme: and contrari∣wise, what trouble and disquietnes was now risen by di∣uers (as they termed them) wicked and peruerse men teachinge and preachinge openlye and priuilye, acer∣tayne new, wicked and hereticall kinde of doctrine, con∣trary to the Catholicke fayth and determination of holye Church: whervpon y^e king alwayes oppressed with blynd ignoraunce by the crafty meanes and subtile pretences of the clergie, graunted in the sayd Parliament (by consent of the nobilitie assembled) a statute to be obserued called Ex officio as followeth.

The Statute Ex officio.

That is to say, that no man within this Realme or other the kinges maiesties dominions, presume or take vpon him to preach priuily or apertly, without speciall licence first obteyned of the ordinary of the same place (Curates in theyr owne parishe Chur∣ches, and persons heretofore priuiledged, and others admitted by the Canon law, onely excepted) Nor that any hereafter do preach mayntayne, teach, informe openly or in secret, or make or write any booke contrary to the catholique fayth, and determination of the holy Church. Nor that any hereafter, make anye conuenti∣cles or assemblies, or keepe and exercise anye maner of schooles touching this sect, wicked doctrin and opinion. And further that no man hereafter shall by any meanes, fauour anye such preacher, any such maker of vnlawfull assemblies, or any such booke maker or writer, and finally any such teacher, informer, or stirrer vp of the people. And that all and singuler persons hauing anye the sayd bookes, writinges, or schedules contayning the sayd wicked do∣ctrines and opinions, shall within forty dayes after this present proclamation and statute, really and effectually deliuer or cause to be deliuered all and singuler the sayd bookes and writinges, vnto the ordinary of the same place. And if it shall happen anye person or persons of what kinde, state, or condition soeuer he or they be, to doe or attempt anye manner of thing contrarye to this present proclamation & statute, or not to deliuer the same books in forme aforesayd: That then the ordinary of the same place in his owne diocesse by authoritie of the sayd proclamation and statute shall cause to be arested and deteined vnder safe custody, the sayd person or persōs in this case diffamed, and euidently suspected or any of them, vntill he or they so offending haue by order of lawe purged him or themselues as touching the articles layd to hys or theyr charge in this behalfe: or vntill he or they haue denyed and recanted (according to the lawes ecclesiasticall) the sayd wicked sect, preachinges, teachinges: and hereticall and erroneous opi∣nions And that the sayd ordinary by himselfe or his Commissaries proceede openly and iudicially to all the effect of law agaynst the sayd persons so arested and remayning vnder safe custody, & that he end and determine the matter within three monethes after the sayd arest, (all delayes and excuses set apart) according to the or∣der and custom of the Canon law. And if any person, in any cause aboue mentioned, shalbe lawfully conuicted before the ordinary of the diocesse or hys Comissaries: that then the sayd Ordinary, may lawfully cause the sayd person so conuicted (according to the maner and quallitie of hys fact) to be layd in any of his owne prisons, and there to be kept so long as to hys discretion shall be thought expedient.

And further the sayd Ordinary (except in cases by the which according to the Canon law, the party offending ought to be de∣liuered to the seculer power) shall charge the sayd person wyth such a fine of mony to be payd vnto the kinges maiestye, as he shall thinke competent for the maner and quallitie of his offence, And the sayd diocesan shalbe bound to geue notice of the sayd fine, in∣to the kinges maiesties Eschequer, by hys letters patent vnder his seale: to the intent that the sayd fine may be leuied to the kinges maiesties vse of the goodes of the person so conuict.

And further if any person within this realme and other the the kinges maiesties dominion, shalbe conuicted before the Ordi∣nary of the place, or hys Comissaryes, of the sayd wicked prea∣chinges, doctrines, opinions schooles, and hereticall and errone∣ous informations or any of them: and will refuse to abiure and re∣cant the sayd wicked sect, preachings teachings, opinions, schols and informations: Or if after hys abiuration once made, the re∣lapse be pronounced agaynst hym by the diocesan of the place, or hys Commissaryes (for so by the Canon law he ought to be lefte to the secular power, vpon credite geuen to the ordinary or hys Commissaries) That then, the Sheriffe of the same Countie, the Mayor, Sheriffes, or Sheriffe, or the Mayor or Baliffes of the same Cittie, village or Borough of the same County, and neerest inha∣biting to the sayd Ordinary or hys sayd Commissaryes: shall per∣sonally be present, as oft as they shalbe required, to conferre with the sayd Ordinary or his commissaries in geuing sentence against the sayd persons offending or any of them. And after the sayd sen∣tence so pronounced, shall take vnto them the sayd persons so of∣fending, and any of them, and cause them openly to be burned in the sight of all the people: To the intent that this kinde of punish∣ment may be a terror vnto others, that the like wicked doctrines and heretical opinions, or the authours and fauourers thereof be no more mayntayned within this Realme and dominions, to the great hurt (which God forbid) of Christian religion, and decrees of holy Church. In which all and singuler the premisses, concer∣ning the statute aforesayd: Let the Sheriffes, Mayors, and Bayliffes of the sayd Counties, Cities: Villages, and Boroughes, be atten∣dant, ayding, and fauoring, the sayd Ordinaryes and theyr Com∣missaries.

By this bloudy statute so seuerely and sharply enacted agaynst these simple men, here hast thou (gentle Reader a little to stay with thy selfe: and to consider the nature and condition of this present world, howe it hath bene set and bent euer from the beginning, by all might, counsayle, and wayes possible, to striue agaynst the wayes of God, and to ouerthrow that which he will haue set vp. And althogh the world may see by infinite storyes and examples, that it is but in vaine to striue against him: yet such is the nature of this world (all set in malignitie) that it will not cease still to be like it selfe.

The like law and statute in the time of Dioclesian and Maximinus was attempted, as before appeareth, pag. 83. & for the more strength were writtē also in tables of brasse, to the entent that the name of Christ should vtterly be ex∣tincted for euer. And yet, the name of Christ remayneth, where that brasen lawe remayned not three yeres. The which law writtē thē in brasse, although it differ in maner & form, from this our statute Ex officio, yet to the same ende & cruelty, to spill the bloud of saintes, there is no difference betweene the one and the other. Neither is there anye di∣uersitie touching the first originall doer and worker of thē both. For the same Sathan, which then wrought his vt∣termost agaynst Christ, before he was bound vp: the same also now after his loosing out, doth what he can, though not after the same way, yet to the same intent. For then 〈◊〉〈◊〉 outward violence as an open enemy, he did what he could Now by a more couert way, vnder the title of the Church he unpugneth the Church of Christ, vsing a more subtile way to deceaue, vnder gay pretēsed titles: but no lesse per∣nicious in the end, wherto be shouteth, as well appeareth by this bloudy statute Ex officio, the sequell wherof cost af∣terward, many a Christen mans life. As in processe of sto∣ry remayneth more hereafter (Christ willing) to be de∣clared.

Furthermore for the more fortification of this statute of the king aforesayd, concurreth also an other constitution made much about the same tyme by the Archb. of Canterb. Thomas Arundell. So that no industrye nor pollicy of man here did lack to set the matter forward, but specially on the bishops partes, who left no meanes vnattempted, how to subuert the right wayes of the Lord.

First, in most dilligent and exquisite execution of the kinges statute set foorth: the execution whereof they did so exactly apply, that maruell it is to consider, all other laws of kinges (commonly,) be they neuer so good) to be so cold∣ly kept, and this onely among all the rest so neerely follo∣wed. But herein is to be scene the dilligence of the romishe Prelates, which neuer let any thing to fal, that maketh for the dignity of their estate.

Secondly, beside theyr vigilant care, in seeing y^• kinges statute to be executed: No lesse industrious also were they in adding thereunto mo•• constitutions of theyr owne, as from time to time appeareth as wel by other Archbishops hereafter, and by Pope Martine, as also by this constitu∣tion here present made by Thomas Arundell the Archb.

But before we enter to the relation of these foresayd

cōstitutious of y^t clergy mē, here cōmeth in more to be said and noted touching y^• foresayd Statute ex Officio to proue the same not onely to be cruell and impious but also to be of it selfe of no force and validitie for the burning of anye person for cause of Religion, for the disprofe of whiche sta∣tute we haue sufficient authoritie remayning as yet in the parliament Rolles to be seene in her maiesties Courte of Recordes: which here were to be debated at large but that vpon speciall occasiō we haue differed the amp••e discourse therof to the cruell persecution of the Lord Cobhame here∣after ensuing as may appeare in the defence of the sayd lord Cobham agaynst Nicholas Happeffield vnder the ti∣tle and name of Alanus Copus And thus referring them for the examination of this statute to the place aforesaid, let vs now returne to Thomas Arundel, and his bloudy consti∣tutions aboue mentioned. The stile and tenour wherof, to the intent the rigour of the same may appeare to all men I thought hereunder to adioyne, in wordes as followeth.

* The constitution of Thomas Arundell, agaynst the followers of Gods truth.

Thomas by the permission of God, Archbishop of Can∣terbury, Primate of all Englande, and Legate of the see Apostolicke: To all and singuler our reuerend brethren fellow Bishops, and our Suffraganes. And to Abbots, Priours, Deanes of Cathedrall Churches, Archdeacons, Prouostes and Canons: also to all persons, vicares, chap∣laynes, & Clerkes in Parish Churches, and to all lay mē whome and where so euer, dwelling win our prouince of Canterbury, greeting: & grace to stand firmely in the doc∣trine of the holy mother Church. It is a manifest & playne case: that he doth wrong and iniury to the most reuerend councell, who so reuolteth from the thinges, being in the sayd Councell once discussed and decided. And whosoeuer dare presume to dispute of the supreme or principall iudg∣ment here in earth, in so doing incurreth the payne of sa∣crilege, according to the authoritie of ciuill wisedome and and manifest tradition of humayne law. Much more then they who trusting to theyr own wittes, are so bold to vio∣late and with contrary doctrine to resist, and in word and deede to contemne the preceptes of lawes and Canons, rightly made and proceeding from the kaybearer and por∣ter of eternall life and death: bearing the rowme and per∣son, not of pure man, but of true God here in earth: which also haue bene abserued hitherto, and of y^• holy fathers our predecessoures, vnto the glorious effusion of theyr bloud, & voluntary sprinkling out of theyr braynes: Are worthy of greater punishmēt, deseruing quickly to be cut off, as rot∣ten members, from the body of the Church militent. For such ought to consider, what is in the old testament writ∣ten: Moses and Aaron among hys Priestes, that is, were chiefe heads amongst them. And in the new Testament a∣mong the Apostles there was a certayne difference: And though they were all Apostles yet was it graunted of the Lord to Peter, that he should beare preeminence aboue the other Apostles: And also the Apostles themselues woulde the same, that he shoulde be the chiefetayn ouer all the rest. And being called Cephas, that is, head: shold be as Prince ouer the Apostles. Unto whome it was sayd: Thou beyng once conuerted, confirme thy brethren: as though he wold say, If there happen any doubt among them, or if anye of them chaunce to erre and stray out of the way of fayth, of iust liuing, or right conuersation: Doe thou confirme and reduce him in the right way againe. Which thing no doubt the Lord would neuer haue sayd vnto him, if he had not so minded, y^t the rest should be obedient vnto him. And yet al this notwithstanding, we know and dayly proue, that we are sory to speake, howe the olde Sophister, the enemy of mankinde, (foreseeing and fearing left y^t sound doctrine of the church determined from ancient times by the holy fore∣fathers: should withstand his malices, if it might keep the people of god in vnitie of faith vnder one head of y^• church) doth therfore endeuour by al meanes possible, to extirp the sayd doctrine, feyning vices to be vertues. And so vnder false pretences of veritie dissimuled, soweth discorde in ca∣tholike people, to the intent, y^t some goyng one way, some an other: He in the meane time may gather to himselfe a Church of the malignant, differing wickedly from the v∣niuersall mother holy church. In the which Satan trans∣forming hymselfe into an Angell of light, bearing a lying and deceitfull ballaunce in hys hād, pretendeth great righ∣teousnes, in contrarying the ancient doctrine of the holye mother church, and refusing the traditions of the same de∣termined and appoynted by holy fathers: perswading mē (by fayned forgeries) the same to be nought: and so indu∣cing other new kindes of doctrine, leading to more good∣nes, as he by his lying perswasions pretendeth, although he in very truth neither willeth nor mindeth any goodnes but rather that he may sow schismes, wherby diuers opi∣nions & contrary to themselues being raysed in y^t Church fayth thereby may be diminished, and also the reuerend holy misteries through the same contention of words may be prophaned with Paganes, Iewes, and other infidels, and wicked miscreantes. And so that figure in the Apos. 6. is well verified, speaking of him that sate on the blacke horse, bearing a payre of balaunce in hys hand, by y^t which heretiques are vnderstand. Who at the first appearaunce lyke to weightes or ballance, make as though they would set forth right and iust thinges, to allure the hartes of the hearers. But afterward, appeareth the blacke horse, that is to say, their intention, full of cursed speaking. For they vnder a diuers shew and colour of a iust ballance, with the tayle of a blacke horse sprinkling abroad heresies and er∣roures, do strike. And beyng poysoned themselues, vnder colour of good, rayse vp infinite slaunders, and by certayn persons fitte to doe mischiefe, do publish abroad as it were the sugred tast of hony mixt with poyson, therby the sooner to be taken: working and causing through their slight and subtiltyes, that errour shoulde be taken for veritye, wic∣kednes for holines, and for the true will of Christ. Yea and moreouer the foresayd persons thus picked out, do preach before they be sent, and presume to sow the seede, before the seede discreetely be seperate from the chaffe. Who not pon∣dering the constitutions and decrees of the Canons, pro∣uided for the same purpose agaynst suche pestilent sowers, do preferre sacrifice Diabolicall (so to terme it) before obe∣dience be geuen to the holy Church militant

We therfore considering and weying, that error which is not resisted, seemeth to be allowed, and hee that openeth hys bosome to wyde, whiche resisteth not the viper think∣ing there to thrust out her venome: And willing moreouer to shake off the dust from our feete, and to see to the honor of our holy mother Church, whereby one vniforme holye doctrine may be sowne and planted in the churche of God, (namely in thys our prouince of Caunterbury) so much as is vs doth lye, to the encrease of fayth and seruice of God, first rooting the euill weedes and offenditles which by the meanes of peruerse preaching, mad doctrine, haue sprong vp hitherto, and are lyke more hereafter to grow: purpo∣sing by some conuenient way with all dilligence possible to withstand them in tyme, and to prouide for the perill of soules, whiche we see to ryse vnder pretence of the premis∣ses: also to remoue al such obstacles, by which the sayd our purpose may be stopped, by the aduise and assent of all our Suffragans and other Prelates, being present in this our conuocation of the Clergie, as also of the procuratours of them that be absent: and at the instaunt petition of the pro∣curators of the whole Clergie within this our prouince of Canterbury, for the more fortification of the common law in this part, adding thereunto punishment and penalties condigne as be here vnder written, we will and command ordayne and decree.

That no maner of person seculer or reguler, being au∣thorised to preach by the lawes now prescribed, or licenced by special priuiledge: shal take vpon him the office of prea∣ching the word of God, or by any meanes preach vnto the clergy or Laitie, either within the Churche or without, in English, except he first present himselfe, and be examined of the Ordinary of the place where he preacheth. And so be ing found a fitte person, as well in maners as knowledge he shall be sent by the sayd Ordinary, to some one Church or more as shalbe thought expedient by the sayd Ordinary according to the quallitie of the person. Nor any person a∣foresayd shall presume to preach, except first he geue fayth∣full signification in due forme of his sending and authori∣tie, that is: That he that is authorised, doe come in forme appoynted him in that behalfe: and those that affirme they come by speciall priuiledge, do shew their priuiledge vnto the Parson or Vicare of the place where they preach. And those that pretend themselues to be sent by the ordinary of the place, shall likewise shew the Ordinaries letters made vnto hym for that purpose, vnder hys great seale. Let vs alwayes vnderstand, the Curate (hauing the perpetuitie) to be sent of right vnto the people of his owne cure. But if any person aforesayd, shalbe bidden by the ordinary of the place, or any other superiour to preach, by reason of his er∣rors and heresies whiche before peraduenture he hath preached and taught: that then and from thēceforth, he ab∣stayne from preaching within our prouince: vntill he haue purged hymselfe, & be lawfully admitted agayne to preach by the iust arbitrement of him that suspended and forbad him. And shall alwaies after that, cary with hym to al pla∣ces wheresoeuer he shall preach, the letters testimoniall of him that restored him.

Moreouer, the Parish Priestes or Vicares temporall, not hauing perpetuities, nor being sent in forme aforesayd shall simply preach in y^t Churches where they haue charge onely those thinges whiche are expressely contayned in the prouinciall constitution set forth by Iohn our predecessour of good memory, to helpe y^t ignorance of the priests, which beginneth: Ignorantia Sacerdotum. Which book of constitu∣tions, we would should be had in euery parish Church in our prouince of Caunterbury, within three monthes next after the publication of these presentes, and (as therein is required) that it be effectually declared by y^t priestes them∣selues yearely, and at the tunes appoynted. And least thys wholesome statute might be thought hurtfull of some, by reason of payment of money, or some other difficultie: we therfore will & ordayne, that y^t examinations of the persōs aforesayd, and the making of theyr letters by the Ordinary be done gratis and freely without any exaction of money at all, by those to whome it shall appertayne. And if any man shall willingly presume to violate this our statute groun∣ded vpon the old lawe, after the publication of the same: he shall incurre the sentence of greater excommunication ipso facto: whose absolution we specially reserue by tenoure of these presentes, to vs and our successours. But if anye such Preacher despising this wholsome Statute, and not wey∣ing the sentence of greater excommunication doe the secōd time take vpon hym to preach: saying and alledging, and stoutly affirming that the sentence of greater excommuni∣cation aforesaid, cannot be appoynted by the Church in the persons of the Prelates of the same: That then, the Supe∣riours of the place, doe worthely rebuke him, and forbid him from the Communion of all faythfull Christians.

And that the sayde person hereupon lawfully conuicted (except he recant and abiure after the maner of y^t Church) be pronounced an hereticke by the Ordinary of the place. And that from thenceforth he be reputed and taken for an hereticke and schismaticke, and that he incurre (ipso facto) the penalties of heresie and schismacie, expressed in the law: And chiefly that his goodes be adiudged confiscate by the law, and apprehended and kept by them, to whome it shal appertayne. And that hys faurours, receiuers, & defenders being conuicted, in all cases be likewise punished, if they cease not of within one month, being lawfully warned therof by theyr superiours.

Furthermore, no clergy man, or parochians of any pa∣rish or place within our prouince of Cant. shall admit any man to preach w^tin their Churches, churchyardes or other places whatsoeuer, except first there be manifest knowe∣ledge had of his authoritie, priuiledge, or sending thither, according to the order aforesayd: Otherwise the Churche, churchyarde, or what place whatsoeuer, in whiche it was so preached, shal ipso facto, receiue y^• Ecclesiasticall interdict & so shall remayne interdicted, vntill they that so admitted and suffered him to preach, haue reformed themselues, and obtayned y^t place so interdicted, to be released in due forme of law, either frō the Ordinary of y^• place, or his superiour.

Moreouer, like as a good housholder casteth wheat in∣to the ground (well ordered for that purpose) therby to get the more encrease: euen so we wil and commaund, that the preacher of Gods word, comming in form aforesayd, prea∣ching eyther vnto the Clergy or Laity, according to hys matter proponed: shalbe of good behauiour, sowing such seed as shalbe cōuenient for his auditory. And chiefly prea∣ching to the Clergie, he shall touche the vices commonly vsed amongst them, and to the Laitie he shall declare the vices commonly vsed among them, and not otherwise: But if he preach contrary to this order, then shall he be sharpely punished by the ordenary of that place, according to the quallitie of that offence.

Item, for as much as the part is vile, that agreeth not with the whole: we do decree and ordayn, y^t no preacher a∣foresayd, or any other person whatsoeuer, shall otherwise teach or preach concerning the sacramēt of the aulter, ma∣trimony, confession of sinnes, or any other sacrament of the Church, or article of the fayth, then that already is discussed by the holy mother Churche, nor shall bring anye thing in doubt y^t is determined by the church: nor shal to his know∣ledg•• priuily or apertly pronounce blasphemous wordes concerning the same, nor shall teach, preach, or obserue any sect, or kinde of heresie whatsoeuer, contrary to the whole∣some doctrine of the Church. He that shall wittingly & ob∣stinatly attempt the contrary, after the publication of these presentes, shall incurre the sentence of excommunication ipso facto: From the which (except in poynt of death) he shal not be absolued, vntill he hath reformed himselfe by abiu∣ration of his heresie, at the discretion of the Ordinary, in who•• territory he so offeded, and hath receiued wholsome penitence for his offences. But if the second tyme he shall so offend, being lawfully conuicted, he shalbe pronounced an hereticke, & his goods confiscate and apprehended, and kept by them to whome it shall appertayne. The penance before mentioned, shalbe after this manner: If anye man contrary to the determination of the Church, that is, in p^• decrees, decretals, or our constitutions prouinciall, doe o∣penly or priuily teach or preach any kinde of heresie or secte he shall in the parish Church of the same place, where he so preached, vpon one sonday, or other solemne day, or more, at the discretion of the ordinary, and as his offence is more or lesse, expressely reuoke that he so preached, taught or af∣firmed, euen at the time of the solemnitic of the masse, whē the people are most assembled, and there shall effectually and without fraud preach, and teach the very truth deter∣mined by the church: and further shalbe punished after the quallitie of hys offence, as shalbe thought expedient to the discretion of the Ordinary.

Item, for as much as a new vessell being long vsed, fa∣uoreth after the head, we decree and ordayn, that no schole∣maisters and teachers what soeuer, that instruct childrē in grammer, or others whō so euer, in primitiue sciences shal in teaching them, intermingle any thing concerning y^• ca∣tholicke rayth, the sacrament of the aulter, or other Sacra∣mentes of the Church, contrary to the determinations of y^• church. Nor shall suffer theyr schollers to expound the ho∣ly Scriptures, (except the text as hath bene vsed of aunci∣ent time,) nor shal permit them to dispute openly or priui∣ly concerning the catholicke fayth, or Sacramentes of the Churche. Contrariwise, the offender herein shalbe gree∣uously punished by the Ordinary of the place, as a fauou∣rer o•• errours and schismes.

Item, for that a new way doth more frequently leade a stray, then an old way: we will and commaunde that no booke or treatise made by Iohn Wickliffe, or other whom soeuer, about that time or sithence, or hereafter to be made: be from henceforth read in schooles, halles, hospitalles, or other places whatsoeuer, within our prouince of Canter∣bury aforesayd, except the same be first examined by the v∣niuersitie of Oxford or Cambridge, or at the last by twelue persons, whom the sayd vniuersities or one of the shal ap∣poynt to be chosen at our discretion, or the laudable discre∣tion of our predecessoures: and the same being examined as aforesayd, to be expresly approued and allowed by vs or our successours, and in the name and authoritie of the vni∣uersitie, to be deliuered vnto the Stationers to be copyed out, and the same to be sold at a reasonable price, the origi∣nall therof alwaies after, to remayn in some chest of y^t vni∣uersitie. But it any man shall read any such kynd of booke in schooles or otherwise, as aforesayd: he shalbe punished as a sower offchisme, and a fauourer of heresie, as the qua∣litie or the fault shall require.

Item, it is a daungerous thinge (as witnesseth blessed S. Hierome) to translate the text of the holy scripture out of one tongue into an other: for in the translation the same sense is not alwayes easily kept, as the same S. Ierome confesseth, that although he were inspired, yet oftentimes in this he erred. We therefore decree and ordayne, that no man hereafter by his owne authoritie, translate any text of the Scripture into English, or any other tongue, by way of a booke, libell, or treatise, and if no man read anye suche booke libell or treatise, nowe lately set foorth in the time of Iohn Wickliffe, or sithence, or hereafter to be set forth, in part or in whole, priuily, or apertly: vpon paine of grea∣ter excommunication, vntill the said translation be allow∣ed by the Ordinary of the place, or (if the case so require) by the Councell prouinciall: He that shall do contrary to this shal likewise be punished as a fauourer of error & heresie.

Item, for that almighty God cannot be expressed with any Philosophicall termes, or otherwise inuented of man: And S. Augustine faith, That he hath oftentimes reuoked such conclusions as hath bene most true, because they haue bene offensiue to the eares of the religious: we doe ordeine and specially forbid, that no maner o•• person, of what state degree, or condition, so euer he be, doe allege or propone a∣ny conclusions or propositions in y^t catholicke fayth, or re∣pugnant to good manners, (except necessary doctrine per∣tayning to theyr facultie of teaching or disputing in theyr schooles or otherwise) although they defend the same with neuer so curious termes and wordes. For as sayth blessed S. Hugh of the Sacramentes, that whiche oftentimes is well spoken, is not well vnderstood. If any man therefore after the publication of these presents, shalbe conuict wit∣tingly to haue proponed such conclusions or propositions, except (being monished) he reforme himselfe in one month by vertue of this present constitution: He shall incurre the sentence of greater excommunication ipso facto, and shalbe openly pronounced an excommunicate, vntill he hath con∣fessed

his fault openly in the same place where he offended, and hath preached the true meaning of the sayd conclusion or proposition in one church or more, as shalbe thought ex¦pedient to the Ordinary.

Item, no manner of person shall presume to dispute vpon y^t articles determined by y^t church, as is cōtayned in the decrees, decretals, our constitutions prouinciall, or in the general Councels. But onely to seek out the true mea∣ning therof, & that expressely, whether it be openly or in se∣cret: nor none shal cal in doubt the authoritie of the said de∣cretals or constitutions, or the authoritie of him that made thē, nor teach any thing contrary to y^t determination ther∣of: And chiefly concerning the adoration of the holy crosse the worshipping of Images, of sayntes, going on pilgri∣mage to certayne places, or to the reliques of saintes, or a∣gaynst y^t othes in cases accustomed to be geuen in both cō∣mon places, that is to say, spirituall & temporall: But of al it shalbe commonly taught and preached, that the crosse & Image of the Crucifixe, and other Images of Saynts in the honour of them whom they present, are to be worship∣ped with procession, bowing of knees, offring of frankin∣cense, kissinges, oblations, lighting of candels, and pilgri∣mages, and with all other kind of ceremonyes and man∣ners that hath bene vsed in the time of our predecessoures: And that geuing of othes in cases expressed in the law, and vsed of all men to whome it belongeth in both common places, ought to be done vpon the booke of the Gospell of Christ. Contrarye vnto this who so euer doth preache, teache, or obstinately affirme (except he recant in manner and forme aforesayd) shall forthwith incurre the penaltie of heresie, and shalbe pronounced an heretique, in all effect of law.

Item, we doe decree and ordaine, that no chaplayne be admitted to celebrate in any dioces within our prouince of Caunterbury, where he was not borne, or not receaued orders: except hee bring with him hys letters of orders, & letters commendatory from his ordinary, and also from other Bishops in whose dioces of a long lyme he hath ben conuersaunt, whereby his conuersation and maners may appeare: So that it may be knowne, whether he hath bene detained with any new opiniōs touching y^t catholick faith or whether he be free from the same: otherwise, as well he that celebrateth as he that suffereth him to celebrate, shalbe sharpely punished at the discretion of the Ordinary.

Finally, because those things which newly and vnac∣customably excepeth vp, standeth need of new and speedy helpe: and where more daunger is, there ought to be more mary circumspection and stronger resistance, & and not ••••∣out good cause: y^t lesse noble ought discretly to be cut away that the more noble may the more perfectly be nourished Considering therefore, and in lamentable wife shewing vnto you, how the auncient Uniuersitie of Oxford, which as a fruitful vine was wont to extēd forth her fruitful brā∣ches to the honour of God, the great perfection, and defēce of the Church: now partly being become wilde, bringeth forth bitter grapes, which being vndiscreetly eaten of aun∣cient fathers that thought themselues skilfull in the law of God: hath set on edge y^• teeth of their childrē: and our pro∣uince is infected with diuers and vnfruitfull doctrines, and defiled with a new & damnable name of Lollardie, to the great reproofe and offence of the sayd Uniuersitie be∣ing known in forren countryes: & to the great irkesomnes of the studentes there, and to the great damnage and losse of the Church of England, which in times past by her ver∣tue as with a strong wall, was wont to be defended, and now like to runne in ruine not to be recouered. At the sup∣plication therfore of y^t whole clergie of our prouince of Cā terbury: and by the consent and assent of all our brethren & suffragans: and other the prelates in this conuocation as∣sembled, and the proctors of them that are absent: least the riuer being clensed: the fountayne should remayne corrupt and so the water comming from thence should not be pure entending most holesomly to prouide for the honour and vtilitie of our holy mother the Church and the vniuersitie moresayd. We do ordeine and decree: that euery warden, Prouost: or maister of euery College, or principall of euery hall w^tin the vniuersitie aforesayd: shall once euery moneth at y^• least, diligently enquire in the sayd College, hall, or o∣ther place where he hath authoritie, whether anye scholler or inhabitant in such colledge, or hall. &c. haue holdē, allea∣ged, or defended, or by any meanes proponed, any conclu∣sion proposition o•• opinion concerning the catholick faith or sounding cōtrary to good maners, or contrary to the de∣termination of the Church, otherwise then appertayneth to necessary doctrine. And if hee shall finde anye suspec∣ted or diffamed herein, he shall according to his office ad∣monish him to desiste. And if after such monition geuen, the sayde partye offende agayne in the same or suche like, hee shall incurre ipso facto (besides the penalties aforesayd) the sentence of greater excommunication. And neuerthelesse, if it be a scholier that so offendeth the second tyme, whatsoe∣uer he shall afterward doe in the sayd vniuersitie, shall not stand in effect. And if he be a doctour, a maister, or bachel∣ler, he shall sorth with be suspended frō euery schollers act, and in both cases shal lose the right that he hath in the said College or hall, wherof he is, Ipso facto: and by the warde: Prouost, Maister, principall, or other to whō it appertay∣neth, he shalbe expelled, & a Catholique, by lawful meanes forth with placed in his place. And if the sayd wardens, Prouostes or Maisters of Colledges or principalles of halles, shalbe negligent concerning the inquisition and execution of such persons suspected and diffamed by y^t space of x. dayes, frō the time of the true or supposed knowledge of y^t publication of these presentes: y^t then they shal incurre y^t sentence of greater excommunication: and neuerthelesse shalbe depriued ipso facto, of all the right which they pretēd to haue in y^• colledges, halles &c. and the sayd Colledges & halles &c. to be effectually vacant: And after lawfull decla∣ration hereof made by them to whom it shall appertayne, new wardens, Prouostes, Maisters, or principals, shalbe placed in they, places, as hath ben accustomed in colledges and halles, being vacant in the sayd vniuersitie. But if the wardens themselues, Prouostes, Maisters or principals aforesayd, be suspected and diffamed of and concerning the sayd conclusions or propositions, or be fauourers & defen∣ders of such as doe therein offend: and doe not cease, beyng therof warned by vs, or by our authoritie: or by y^• ordinary of the place: that then by law they be depriued, as well of all priuiledge scholasticall within the vniuersitie aforesayd, as also of their right and authoritie in such Colledge, hall, &c. Besides other penalties afore mentioned, and that they in∣curre the sayd sentence of greater excommunication.

But if any man in any case of this present cōstitution or any other aboue expressed: do rashly and wilfully presume to violate these our statues in any part thereof (although there be an other penalty expressely there limitted) yee shal he be made altogether vnable and vnworthy by the spare of three yeares after, without hope of pardon to obtayn a∣ny ecclesiasticall benefice within our prouince of Caunter∣bury: and neuertheles according to all hys demerites and the quallitie of hys excesse, at the discretion of his superiour he shalbe lawfully punished.

And further, that y^• maner of proceeding herein be not thought vncertayne: considering with ourselues, that al∣though there be a kinde of equallitie in the crime of heresie and offending the prince, as is auouched in diuers lawes: yet the fault is much vnlike, and to offend the deuine maie∣stie requireth greater punishment, then to oftend y^• Prin∣ces maiesty. And where it is sufficient (for feare of daunger that might ensue by delayes) to conuince by iudgement the offender of the Princes maiesties proceeding agaynst hym fully & wholy, with a citation sent by messenger, by letters, or edict not admitting proofe by witnesses, and sentēce de∣finitiue to be: we do ordeine, will, and declare, for the easi∣er punishment of the offēders in the premisses, and for the better reformation of the church deuided and hurt, that all such as are diffamed, openly knowne, or vehemētly suspec∣ted in any of the cases aforesayd, or in anye article of the ca∣tholicke fayth sounding contrary to good manners: by au∣thoritie of the ordinary of the place or other superior, be ci∣ted personally to appeare, cyther by letters, publique mes∣senger being sworne: or by edicte openly set at that place where the sayd offender commonly remayneth, or in hys parish Church, if he hath any certayne dwelling house. O∣therwise, in y^• Cathedrall church of the place where he was borne, and in the parish churche of the same place where he so preached and taught: And afterwardes certificate beyng geuen, that the citation was formally executed agaynst the party cited being absent and neglecting hys appearannce it shalbe proceeded agaynst him fully and playnly without sound or shew of iudgement, and without admitting proofe by witnesses and other canonicall probations. And also af∣ter lawful informatiō had, the sayd ordinary (al delayes set apert) shall signifie declare, and punishe the sayd offender, according to the quallitie of his offence, and in forme afore∣sayd: and further, shall doe according to iustice, the absence of the offender notwithstanding.

Geuen at Oxford.

¶ Who would haue thought by these lawes and con∣stitutions so substantially founded, so circumspectly proui∣ded, so dilligently executed: but that the name and memory of this persecuted sort, should vtterly haue bene rooted vp,

& neuer could haue stand. And yet such be the works of th•• lord, passing all mēs admiratiō, all this notwithstanding so far was it of, that the number and courage of these good men was vanquished, that rather they multiplied dayly & encreased. For so I finde in Registers recorded, that these foresayd persons, whome the king and the Catholique fa∣thers, did so greatly deteste for heretickes, were in diuers countries of this realme dispersed and increased: especial∣ly at London, in Lincolnshire in Northfolk, in Hereford∣shyre, in Shreusbury, in Callice, and diuers other quar∣ters mo, with whom the Archb. of Caunterbury Thomas Arundell, the same time had much ado, as by hys own re∣gisters doth appeare. Albeit some there were, that dyd shrinke, many did reuolt and renounce, for daunger of the law. Among whom was Iohn Puruey, whiche recanted at Paules Crosse, of whom more foloweth (the Lord wil∣ling) to be said in the yeare 1421. Also Iohn Edward priest of the dioces of Lincolne, who reuoked in the greene yard at Norwich, Richard Herbert, and Emmot Willy of Lō∣don, also Iohn Becket, who recanted at London. Item, Iohn Seynons of Lincolneshyre, who was caused to re∣uoke at Caunterbury. The articles of whom which com∣monly they did hold, and which they were constrayned to abiure, most specially were these as follow.

Their Articles.

First, that the office of the holy Crosse (ordayned by the whole Church) celebrated, doth contayne idolatry.

Item, they sayd and affirmed, that all they which doe reuerence and worship the signe of the crosse, do commit i∣dolatry, and are reputed as Idolaters.

Item, they sayd and affirmed, that the true fleshe and bloud of our Lord Iesus Christ, is not in the sacrament of the aulter, after the words spoken by the priest truely pro∣nounced.

Item, they sayd and affirmed, the sacrament of the aul∣tar to be sacramentall bread, not hauing life, but onely in∣stituted for a memoriall of Christes passion.

Item, they sayd and affirmed, that the body of Christe which is taken on the aulter, is a figure of y^t body of christ as long as we see the bread and wyne.

Item: they sayd and affirmed, that the decree of the pre¦lates and clergie in the prouince of Caunterbury, in theyr last conuocation, with the consent of the king and the no∣bles in the last Parliament agaynst him that was brent lately in the citty of London: was not sufficient to chaunge the purpose of the sayd Iohn, when the substance of mate∣riall bread is euen as before in the sacrament of the aultar, it was no change being made in the nature of bread.

1* Item, that any lay man may preach the Gospel in euery place, and may teach it by his owne authoritie, without the licence of his Ordinary.

Itē, that it is sinne: to geue any thing to the preaching friers: to the Minorites, to the Augustines, to the Carme∣lites.

Item, that we ought not to offer at the funerals of the dead.

Item, that the confession of sins to the people, is vn∣needefull.

Item, that euery good man (though he be vnlearned) is a priest.

Item, that the infant (though he dye vnbaptised) shal∣be saued.

Item, that neither the pope, nor the prelate, neither a∣ny ordinary can compell any man to sweare by anye crea∣ture of God, or by the bible booke.

Item, that as well the Bishop, the simple man, the priest, and the lay man, be of like authoritie (as lōg as they liue well.)

Item, that no man is bound to geue bodily reuerence to any prelate.

Notes

• Iohn Badby martyr. Ex Regist. Tho. Arun∣del.
• The articles read.
• The Sacra∣ment of Christes bo∣dy.
• I can not blame ye that ye are so angry, for it was not for your profite.
• The sentēce o•• the B. of Worcester against Iohn Badby.
• A table of monkes and friers about the condem∣nation of Iohn Badby
• Quare fre∣muerunt g••ntes. Psal. 2.
• Scribes with Pharises.
• The aunswere of Iohn Badby to the articles.
• The substance of bread not chaunged in the Sacrament.
• The cōstancy of Iohn Badby be∣fore the Archb.
• The Bishops make sure work. The Archb. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Iaylor.
• A stiterunt reges terrae & princi∣pes conuenerunt in vnum aduer∣sus. &c. Psal. 2.
• Note here mur∣dring wolues in sheepes cloa∣thing.
• The pri•••• labourc•••• to turne Badby.
• The sacra∣ment so∣lemnely brought to Smithfield at the bur∣ning of Bad∣bye.
• Ioh. Badby constant to the end.
• All the po∣wer of man set against the Gospel.
• The Gospel of Christ counted as wicked and hereticall.
• The cruell statute, ex. officio.
• A bloudie law of king Henry. 4.
• A bloudy sta∣tute.
• The lawe of Maximinus and the statute ex officio compa∣red.
• A cruell consti∣tution by the Archb. agaynst the Gospellers with 13. articles.
• Blasphemy, not of pure man, but of true God. Hee meaneth here of Thomas Becket his pre∣decessour, who had ••is braynes beat out in the time of K. Hen. 2 Scripture clarkly applyed. This geare hangeth togea. ther lyke ger∣ma••es lyppes. 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, marke this you Grammarians.
• Marke well the popes diuinitie. An argument far fet that true doctrine cons¦sisteth in making one head of the Church.
• How aptly he painteth the proceedinges of his owne popish Church
• Apos. 6.
• The figure of the black horse in the Apoc. doc∣torly expo••∣ded.
• Behold the true image of Wolues vnder sheepes clo∣thing.
• The first cō∣stitution.
• No priestes to preach, but by limi∣tation of the prealates.
• A ioly mene to bring the world into such dark∣nes.
• Constit. 2.
• Constit. 3.
• what tyrāny is this to bynde the preachers mouth what to say.
• Constit. 4.
• A barre for the prea∣chers.
• Const. 5.
• A caueat for schoolemasters.
• Const. 4.
• Books of Iohn Wickliffe for∣bidden.
• Constit. 7.
• He confesseth that S. Ierome erred in his translation. And yet the said Archb. cōmēded Queene Anne, for hauing the scripture in Englishe.
• Constit. 8.
• Termes and propositions in disputing to be obserued.
• Constit. 6.
• Authoritie of the popes de∣cretals not to be doubted d vnder pain•• of heresie.
• Adoration of the crosse.
• With all ab∣homination.
• Constit 10.
• No priest to ce∣lebrate without their letters of orders.
• Constit. 11.
• Oxford famous for sincere reli∣gion.
• Inquisition to bemade through Colledges and halles of Ox∣forde.
• I would 〈◊〉〈◊〉 like were vsed nowe for the ba∣nishing of papistry.
• Constit. 12.
• Constit. 13.
• Easier to o••∣fend against the princes law then a∣gainst the byshops.
• Iohn Pur∣uey. Iohn Ed∣ward. Iohn Bec∣ket. Iohn Sey∣nons abiu∣red.
• The articles.
• 1

  Their ar∣cle cōmonly was thus, that who so taketh vpon him the of∣fice of a Prieste though he haue no cure of soules, nor licence of his ordina∣ry, is bounde to preach the Gospel.