Actes and monuments of matters most speciall and memorable, happenyng in the Church. [vol. 2, part 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.

The history of Doctor Robert Farrar, Bishop of S. Dauids in Wales, who most constantly gaue his life for the testimonye of the truth. March. 30. an. 1555.

THe next day after, whiche was the xxx. day of the sayde moneth of march,* 1.1 followed the worthy & constāt mar∣tirdome of the bishop of S. Dauids in Wales, called Ro∣bert Farrar, who was the next bishop in this Catalogue of Christian Martirs, that suffered after mayster Hooper. This foresayd Farrar, by the fauour and good will of the Lord protectour, was first called and promoted to that dignitie. This man I may well call twise a martyr, not onely for the cruell death of the fire, which he suffered most constantly in the dayes of Queene Mary, vnto the shed∣ding of his bloud:* 1.2 but also for diuers other iniuries & mo∣lestations in king Edwardes time, which he no lesse firm∣ly, then vnworthily susteined at the hands of his enemies after the fall of the Duke of Somerset. Of these his vexa∣tiōs and troubles, with the wrangling articles and infor∣mations layd against him, to the number of fifty and sixe, & of the malice conceiued agaynst him by certayn couetous Canons of the Churche of Carmarthen, & what were the proceedinges of both partes, as well of the innocent, as of the crafty aduersaries, & what were their names in theyr articles agaynst him, in order here followeth.

The principall articles agaynst Bi∣shop Farrar.

GEorge Constantine, Dauid Walter his seruant, Tho∣mas [ 1] Young chanter of the Cathedrall Churche, who was afterward Archbishop of Yorke, Rowland Merick, doct. of law, who was afterward Bish. of Bangor, Tho∣mas Lee, and Hugh Rawlins. &c.

THrough the procurement and instance of these his ad∣uersaries, ioyning and confederating together, one Hugh Rawlins priest, and Thomas Lee brother in lawe to the sayd George Constantine, did exhibite to the kinges most honourable counsell certaine articles and informati∣ons, conceiued and deuised by the persons before named, to the intent to blemish the bishops credit, and vtterly (as they thought and made their boast) to pull him from hys bishopricke, and to bring him in a premunire. The copye of whiche articles, we thought here good to expresse, and so after them to set his answeres to the same.

Articles and informations to the kings hono∣rable counsell, put vp and exhibited by Hugh Raulins, and Tho. Lee, agaynst the blessed man of God, Mayster Farrar, byshop of sainct Dauids.

¶Abuse of the authoritie to him committed.

IN primis when the sayde bishop first came to his dyo∣cesse, [ 2] he appoynted his chauncellour by his letters of commission, omitting the kings maiesties stile and autho∣ritie, and grounded his sayd commission vppon forrein v∣surped lawes and authoritie: by force of whiche authoritie his sayd Chauncellour did visite certayne deanryes of hys sayd diocesse, and monished the Chauntor and chaptre of the cathedrall Churche of S. Dauids aforesayd, agaynst a certaine day and place, for like intent and purpose, contra∣ry to the kinges highnes lawes and statutes, and in dero∣gation of his highnes supremacy.

Item, that the sayde Chauntour and chaptre, percey∣uing the faultes of the sayd commission, tooke the same frō the Registre into their custodye, refusing to appeare by vertue thereof, and by secrete and charitable wayes and meanes did admonishe the sayde Byshop of the vnlaw∣fulnesse and faultes of the sayde commission and of the daunger that he had incurred for graunting and execu∣tyng the same: opening also vnto hym the effecte of the statute made in the xxviii. yeare of oure late Soueraigne Lorde Henry the eight: Whiche monitions notwithstan∣ding, the sayd Bishop neglecting the same, and continu∣ing in hys malicious doyng or inexcusable ignoraunce, a∣bout the xx. daye of Auguste in the fourthe yeare of the reigne of our Soueraigne Lorde that nowe is dyd con∣ferre vnto one Iohn Euans the Uicarage of Pembrin, instituting him by authoritie of the old forreigne vsurped lawe, making no mention of the kinges highnes authori∣tie, in contempt and derogation of the same.

Item, wheras the Chauncellour and Uicar generall [ 3] to the sayde Byshop, did vppon a lawfull title, and by the kinges hignes supreme authoritie admit and institute one Iohn Gough into the rectory of Haskard with thappur∣tenaunces, and gaue out in y^e kings name vnder his high∣nes seale ecclesiasticall appoynted for that office with the (teste) of the said bishop and subscription of the said chaun∣cellour, a mādate to inducte accordingly: by vertue wher∣of the said Iohn Gough was inducted by the official there into reall possession of the same rectory, with the rightes and appurtenaunces to the same belonging: whereupon the register of the sayd dioces, at the request of the foresayd chauncellour did signifie the premisses, with all the cir∣cumstances, before diuers persons to the forenamed By∣shop, Who notwithstanding, did institute and cause to be inducted one Harry Goddart vnto the same personage. making no mention of the kinges maiesties authority nor supremacie: in contempt and derogation of the same hys hignes crowne and dignitie, and in extolling the forreine vsurped aucthoritye, contrary to the fourme of the sta∣tute &c.

Item, the sayde Bishop immediately after the vn∣lawfull institution and induction of Goddart aforesayde, [ 4] molested the sayd I. Gough lawfully instituted inducted as before, citing him frō place to place, obiecting no mat∣ter vnto him of long season, till at the length hee articled. Emong which Articles was contayned. Item Interroga∣tur quo titulo tenet rectoriam de Haskard. So taking vppon him the cognition of the title of the hole fruites and pa∣tronage, in contempte of the kinges highnesse regall crowne and dignitie, and in derogation of the lawes and statutes of this Realme.

Item, hee hath commonly made his collations, and institutions, as hee did his first commission in hys owne [ 5] name and authoritie, without expressing the kinges su∣premacie.

Item, hee hath made vnder his seale one collation, two institutions, and three mandates, inducte in one [ 6] vocation of one benefice, to three seuerall persons, wyth∣out order of law, or reuocation of anye of them, geuing to euery one like authoritye, title and right. Whereby, ex∣cept good foresight aswell of Iustices of the peace, as of the frendes had not bene, there had ensued much incon∣uenience amonges the partakers of the intituled incum∣bentes in that behalfe.

Item, the sayde Bishop decreeing Caueates to be made in benefices, thereby knowing the titles litigious, [ 7] instituted, and causeth to be inducted without tryall of a∣nye title or due order of lawe.

Item, hee directeth hys mandates of induction vnto priuate men, and not to Tharchdeacons nor theyr Offi∣cialles: [ 8] contrary to the lawe and custome vsed in that be∣halfe. Notwithstanding he hath bene counsayled to the contrary, of men that be learned.

Item, hauing no maner of knowledge nor practise in the lawe, he sitteth euery day, in haruest and other times, [ 9] vpon causes without assistaunce of learned in the law, ha∣uing with him onely an vnlearned boy, which is no No∣tary, to his scribe, neither obseruing the law, nor yet rea∣sonable order. And therefore doth no good, but tryfeleth the time, as may appeare by his actes, if he haue them to be shewed.

Item, hee and his officers, by his knowledge, vseth to dispense with mariages, to be solemnized without banes, [ 10] contrarye to the lawes and ordinaunces in that be∣halfe.

Item, where as one Thomas Pricharde a Chapleine of his, solempnized matrimony in a priuate house wyth∣out [ 11] banes, & that betwixt a priest, and a sister of hers, that was appointed to be maryed with the said priest that day: hee also being a parson, and leauing his cure vnserued that day being sondaye: notwithstanding, that one of the kinges counsell in the marches of Wales: enformed the sayd bishop of the same misdemeanours, requiring due reformation therof, he hath done nothing therein, but put the same Chapleine in office, and made him his Commis∣sary generall since that tyme, bearyng a speciall fauour to the rest of the offendours.

Item, whereas one Meredith ap Thomas, his hous∣holde seruaunt, was accused of one Sage Hugh, for to [ 12] haue bene father of her chylde, the sayde Byshop wythout purgation of his seruaunt, caused hym to sue the parentes of the sayde Sage of infamie, first in hys principall consi∣story, and from thence before a commissary of hys, being his housholde Chaplaine, and at the last tooke the matter before hymselfe, so rayling agaynst all his officers, be∣cause they proceeded not after hys parciall affection, and agaynst the lawe, that honest men of Carmarththē, where

he then satte vppon the cause, iudged him to be, or at the least to haue bene distracte of his witte: and by his partial handling, the cause remayneth vnfinished, and the childe without father.

Item, wheras one Ienkin Ph. accused William Chā∣bers [ 13] a seruaunt of the Bishoppes, that founde this Willi∣am in adulterouse maner with his wife, by reason wherof the Byshop expelled the wife out of his house, and the said infamie not purged, the parties haue bene both agayn in the Bishops house, and seruice, since that time, to the euill example of other.

Item, by his vnlawfull sequestration of the fruites of [ 14] the benefices of Langattocke, and Lamyhangell, by the vndiscreete handling of the same, there were raysed the number of foure hundred people or more, which bickered sondry times together, to the great daunger of thinha∣bitauntes thereabout, had it not bene pacified by the dis∣creete meanes of syr Roger Uaughan Knight.

Item, by his like vnlawfull collation of the Prebend [ 15] of Lambister, to one Stephen Grene a Chaplayne of his by couenaunt and promise to mayntayne the sute, by whose crafty and vndiscreete handling of the same, there was raysed in the countie of Radner the 19. day of August last yast, about three or foure hundreth men to like daun∣ger, but that the matter was stayed by Iohn Bradshaw, Rice ap Glin, and Stephen ap Rice, Iustices of the same countie. Who with great daunger to them selues and theirs, pacified the matter, committing an hundred of the offendours to warde.

Item, such as he oweth displeasure vnto, he citeth from [ 16] place to place, and daye to daye, onely for their vexation, laying no matter agaynst them: and being diuers tymes required the copye of his proceedinges agaynst them, to thintent they might aunswere accordingly, and be at their lawfull defence: he denyeth to all such persons, the copies of his proceedinges.

Item, he and his officers winke at the manifest and o∣pen [ 17] crimes of his fautours and adherentes, to the euil ex∣ample of the whole Dioces, and abuseth the censures of excommunication and suspension, making it an instru∣ment of reuenging agaynst such, as they do not fauour.

Item, hauing receiued payment of the kinges maie∣sties [ 18] subsidie, due in October, the fourth yeare of his gra∣ces reigne, of the foresayde Chaunter of the Cathedrall Church of Saint Dauids, and Rowland Meyrike, two of the Residentaries there, before Christmas last, he vn∣iustly of a prepensed minde and purpose, afterward certi∣fied them for recusantes, to their vndoyng, if they had not bene admonished of his cruell purpose, and prouided law∣full defence for the same.

Item, the sayd Bishop celebrating matrimony in his owne person, dispensed contrarye to the booke of ordy∣naunce, [ 19] with the parties maryed, for not receauing the holy communion: the parties both bring young, and lu∣sty persones, hauing no reasonable cause wherefore they should abstayne. At whiche celebration, the Byshoppe communicated not himselfe. And further, the communi∣on was celebrated by a Chapleyne of hys, with super∣stitious blowynges, kneelynges, and knockinges, both of the Chaplayne that ministred, & of all the company, onely one other Priest communicating for the maner.

*Mayntenaunce of superstition contrary to the kinges ordinaunce and Iniunctions.

ITem, where the Officiall of Tharchedeacon of Car∣marthen, [ 20] in his visitation within Carmarthen, founde contrary vnto the sayde ordinaunce, an Aultar set vppe in the bodye of the Churche, for celebration of the com∣munion, and caused the sayd Aultar to be taken away, and a table to be set in the middle of the Churche: the Byshop after the same, commaunded the Uicar of Car∣marthen, to set the table without the chauncell agayne for the ministration of the communion.

Item, he being often in Carmarthen, and other pla∣ces [ 21] in the chauncell at y^e time of holy communion, not one¦ly caryed there hym selfe, neyther cōmunicating nor mi∣nistring bareheaded and vncoyffid, reuerently kneelyng, but also permitteth the people there to continue the chauncell and quire full, kneeling and knockyng their breastes. Whiche manner is yet vsed in all the dyo∣cesse without any reformation or gaynesay of hym or any of his officers.

Item, whereas superstious praying vppon beades [ 22] is not onely vngodly, but reprooued in the Kynges Maiesties iniunctions: the sayde Byshopppe meeting many with beades in their handes, neuer rebuked anye of them.

Item, the sayde Byshopye beyng in the Pulpyt, and seeyng corses there within the Churche, wyth a [ 23] great number of lightes vppon them, neuer spake against any of them.

Item, where as thordinaunce will, that no children be baptised but vppon the Sondaye, or holy day (onely [ 24] cause of necessitie excepted) he hauyng two children him∣selfe borne wythout daunger, caused one of them to be baptised vppon the worke day. And by hys example, wythout anye contradiction or motion of reformation, it is vsed as it hath bene accustomed, in all the dyo∣cesse commonly, contrary vnto the booke of ordinaunce in that behalfe.

¶Couetousnes.

Item, from his first comming into the dyocesse, hee hath hadde and yet hathe hys onelye studye, laboure, [ 25] and practise, to suruey landes, and to looke for mines &c. neglecting his owne bounden duety to applye his booke and preaching.

Item, he keepeth no maner hospitalitie, but hath hys seruaunts table in one parlour with him, least any stran∣ger [ 26] shoulde approche, hys seruauntes being at theyr meate.

Item, he is commonly talking, not of any godlynes but of worldlye matters, as baking brewing, enclosing, [ 27] plowing, mining of milstones, discharging of tenaunts, and suche like, not onely at his table, but also most com∣monly at other places.

Item, he hath warned diuers tenauntes out of theyr landes, whiche they and theyr elders haue enioyed for [ 28] their rentes, these hundred yeares, and more: and occu∣pyed with tillage, whiche he sayth he will enclose, and beyng sued to, of poore men, because of quietnes, he an∣swered: the crowes shall eate the corne, rather then ye shal haue any profite thereof.

Item, when the Uicars Chorall of S. Dauids for re∣liefe of their hospitalitie, had an Iland of hys, called the bi∣shops [ 29] Isle, for xl. s. rent: he hath set it to a chapleyn of his for v.li. by yeare. And wher at the sute of the sayd Uicars, it was graunted by the bishop in the whole chapiter, that the Uicares should haue it for yeares at xl. s. rent, and pay xx.li. entrie: he now couetously and agaynst his promyse openly made, denyeth the same, except the Uicars would geue l.li.

Item, he caused the Curate of S. Dauids, to warne their tenauntes out of theyr sayde landes in the pulpit, to [ 30] the great offence of the people, which were wont to haue Gods word preached there: and so they sayd to the Curate at that tyme.

Item, to the plowing of a pasture not aboue x. dayes worke, in Lent. An. 1549. he had 32. ploughes in one day, [ 31] and those ploughes the priest bad in the Church, contrary to the statute of Gomortha in that behalfe prouided, and to the euill example of gentlemen in that country.

Item, where the kinges maiesties of godly remem∣braunce, [ 32] Henry theight, appointed at Brekenock a schole∣maister, vssher, Reader of diuinitie, a Minister, & certain scholers, and for the mayntenaunce thereof, appoynted lx. and xij.li. of the pensions and reuenues of Brekenocke: the Bishop finding it so furnished, hath neither Reader nor Minister there, couetously conuerting their stipends to his owne vse.

Item, the Bish. was twise in one day presented in the great court holden in the towne of Carmarthen, for en∣closing [ 33] and couetous encroching of the kinges hye way.

Item, he couetously occupyeth purchasing of landes, bying of cattell, marchaundise, and other thinges beyng [ 34] indetted a notable summe to the kinges Maiestie, as may by his accomptes in the courte of tenthes, and first fruites appeare.

Item, wheras one Lewis Iohn Thomas boole, put∣ting from hym hys lawfull wedded wife, vppon Christ∣mas [ 35] euen last past, without banes had mariage solemni∣zate with a concubine of hys in a Churche within 3. myles of the Byshoppes abode at that time: The Bishop since knowing the premisses hath not onely of a couetous mind entred familiaritye with the sayde Lewis, and bought a peece of land of him, but also euer since hath (for to haue hys landes good chepe) left both the parties and priest vn∣punished, vsing hym to familiarly, that whereas a Som∣ner cited the parties to appeare among other criminals for the same facte: the Byshoppe commaunded the sayde

Somner to lette hym alone, and so they all remaine vnpu∣nished.

Item, where as the whole Chapiter of Saint Dauids (as it was thought) was in assured amitie wyth the By∣shoppe, they all being his Officers or Chaplaines, he pro∣cured them to be unpleaded wyth Wryt of Quo warranto in the kings Bench, keeping the Wryt with hym secretely, at the least three monethes, not deliuering it, but onely tenne dayes before the day of their apparance, the parties beyng seuen dayes iourney distant from London.

Item, he is a wilfull wrong doer, and troubler of men in theyr rightes, entring vppon their lawfull possessions, stirring thereby much contention, and so notably knowen, to the offence of the countrey.

Wilfull negligence.

ITem, whereas the Byshop aforesayde, was appoynted [ 38] in August. An. 1547. and consecrated in September fol∣lowing, hee neuer came into the Diocesse himselfe, nor sent or appoynted any Officer there before the moneth of April. An. 1548. to the great disorder of the kings Maiesties sub∣iects, lacke of reformation, and ministration of iustice.

[ 39] Item, during his visitation, the sayde Bishop did not endeuor himselfe to see reformation, but roade surueying of landes, appoynting vaine enclosures, and suche other things. Which are no parte of the office to him committed, nor yet conuenient, namely, at that time.

[ 40] Item, the visitation finished, he neither appoynted his Officers to examine the cleargie of the places of Scripture to them appoynted to be studied in the same visitation, nor hath hitherto effectually gone about any godly reformati∣on, according to the ordinaunces of this realme.

[ 41] Item, the Byshoppe since his comming to the diocesse, neuer ministred the Communion, sauing onely at two times, that he ordred certaine Deacons: but in euery thing (but that he other whiles preacheth excepted) ordreth him∣selfe like no minister, nor man of his vocation.

[ 42] Item, he hath so alienated himselfe from studie, that he preacheth vndiscretely, discrediting the office, not only vn∣truely reporting the Scriptures, but also preaching the ten commaundements in one place in declaration of the eight of them, for lacke of stuffe, the pithe of his matter, was ma∣trimonie of priestes.

[ 43] Item, the thirteene day of September last, he ordained certaine Deacons, and making hys exhortation, he taught that a man was not bounden to forgeue, but hym that as∣keth forgeuenesse, and being admonished frendly by a let∣ter to better declare the same, because that diuers were of∣fended wyth that doctrine: hee hath hetherto deferred so to doe, to the maintenaunce of malitious hearts in these par∣ties.

[ 44] Item, since the first day of August. Anno 1549. vnto the feast of Candlemasse last, he hath preached but two or three Sermons, of which one was preached at Aberguilly vpon S. Stephens day last, to a great audience that vnderstode no English, being but a mile from Carmarthen, an Eng∣lish towne, and the chiefe of his Diocesse.

[ 45] Item, since his ordinary visitation, which was finished in Iulie. An. 1548. hee hath neither preached nor caused to be preached in the townes of Tinby, Pembroche, nor Ha∣nerforde being English townes, nor muche distante from the place of his most continuaunce.

[ 46] Item, the Churches appropriate to the Bishop haue no Paraphrases in English, and fewe of them Bibles.

[ 47] Item, the Churches of the diocesse for the moste parte, and the cleargie almost euery one lacke Paraphrases, not∣wythstanding there hath bene these two yeares, and yet be a great nomber of them to be solde in the Diocesse.

Follie.

ITem, to declare his follie in riding, he vseth bridle wyth [ 48] white studs & snaffle, white Scottish stirrops, white spurres, a Scottish padde wyth a little staffe of three quar∣ters long, which he hath not only vsed superstitiously these foure or fiue yeares in communication, ofttimes boasting what Countreys hee hath compassed and measured wyth the same staffe.

[ 49] Item, he hath made a vowe, that hee will neuer weare a cappe: for hee sayeth, it is comely wearing of a hatte, and so commeth in his long gowne and hat, bothe into the Ca∣thedrall churche, and to the best Towne of his diocesse, sit∣ting in that sorte in the kings greate Sessions, and in hys consistorie, making himselfe a mocke to the people.

[ 50] Item, he sayde that he would go to the Parliament on foote. And to his frendes that dissuaded him, alleaging that it is not meete for a man in his place: he answeared, I care not for that, it is no sinne.

Item, hauing a sonne, hee went before the midwife to [ 51] the Church, presenting the childe to the Priest, and geuyng hys name Samuel, wyth a solemne interpretation of the name, appoynting also two Godfathers and two God∣mothers, contrary to the ordinaunce, making hys sonne a monster, and hymselfe a laughing stocke throughout al the countrey.

Item, he daily vseth whisteling of hys childe, and sayththat hee vnderstoode his whistle, when hee was but three dayes olde. And being aduertised of hys frendes, that men laughed at his follie: he answeared: they whistle their hor∣ses and dogges, and I am contented, they myghte also be contented that I whistle my childe, and so whistleth hym daily, all frendly admonition neglected.

Item, in hys Ordinarie visitation among other hys [ 53] surueys, hee surueyed Milforde hauen, where hee espyed a Seale fish tombling. And he crept down to the water side, and continued there, whistling by the space of an houre, perswading the companie that laughed fast at him, that by his whistling he made the fish to tarie there.

Item, speaking of scarcitie of herrings, hee layeth the [ 54] fault to the couetousnesse of fishers, who in time of plentie, tooke so many, that they destroyed the breeders.

Item, speaking of the alteration of the coyn, he wished [ 55] that what metall so euer it were of, the penie shoulde be in weight worthe a penie of the same metall.

For a conclusion, the sayde Byshoppe in all his doings [ 56] since he came to his Diocesse, hath behaued hymselfe moste vnmeete for a man of hys vocation, being for a minister of Iustice, an abuser of the authoritie to him committed, for a teacher of the truthe, and reformer of superstition, a main∣teiner of superstition wythoute any doctrine of reformati∣on, for a liberal, and hospital, an vnsatiable couetous man: for a diligent ouerseer, wilfull and negligent: for an exam∣ple of godly wisedome, geuen wholely to follie: for a mer∣cifull, a cruell reuenger. And further, for a peace maker, a sower of discorde. And so in all his behauiour a discreditor and slaunderer of hys vocation, and a deceiuer of all men▪ that had hope that he should do any reformatiō. For he yet hath neither brought into his diocesse, nor hath belonging vnto hym any learned preacher. But such lerned preachers as he founde in the diocesse at his entrie, hee so vexeth and disquieteth, that they cannot attende to applye theyr prea∣ching, for the defence of their liuings, againste hys quarel∣lous inuentions and vniust certificates.

After these wrangling Articles and informations were geuen vppe, then was the Byshop called for to aunswere,* 1.3 the hearing whereof was committed vnto D. Wotton, and Sir Iohn Mason knight, who likewise receiued the By∣shops aunsweares to the foresayde articles, the copie and effect of which answeares hereafter followe.

The answere of Robert, Bishop of S. Dauids, to the Articles ministred vnto hym.

TO the first Article he sayeth, that after lawful monition in the kings Maiesties name & autoritie, from the sayd B. (being then at London) geuen to the Chanter & chap∣ter of S. Dauids, for visitation at a certaine daye there to be entred: the sayd Byshop himselfe, for such purpose com∣ming into the Diocesse, knowing also that the Chaunter, and one of the Canons of that Churche, & late before com∣missaries in that Diocesse, had not onely by their owne e∣uill example and winking at the faultes of other, or neg∣lecting to correct the same, left there among priestes and o∣thers, much detestable whoredome: but hadde also spoyled the Cathedrall churche of Crosses, Chalices and Censers, wyth other plate, iewels, and ornaments of the Church to the value of 5. C. markes or more, for their owne priuate lucre, (the Church remaining euen yet very vile & in great decay:) and hadde also made further vnder theyr Chapiter seale many blankes to the number of twelue or moe, Sede vacante, wythout the kings licence or knowledge: There∣fore he brought wyth him one Edmunde Farlee, Bachelor of lawe, by D. Tong and D. Neuinson, to hym commen∣ded as a man sufficient in faithfull truthe, and learning, to be hys Chauncellour. To whome hee graunted and Sea∣led a Commission for that purpose, geuing credite to hym in hys facultie, concerning the draught and fourme therof. But the kinges Maiesties stile of Supremacie was ••ullye sette foorth in the same commission. Whether there were a∣nye defaulte of formall woordes in setting foorthe of the kings authoritie therein, hee is not certaine. For hee com∣mitted the doing thereof to hys Chauncelloure, who was commended to hym for a learned manne. And the Byshop

sayeth, that he did neuer grounde the Commission vppon any forraine vsurped lawes or authoritie. Neither did hys sayde Chauncellour by force of suche authoritie, visite anye Deanrie of the sayde Diocesse, nor gaue anye monition to the Chauntour and Chapiter there, by force of that Com∣mission, for any like intent or purpose, but onely offered in y^e kings Maiesties name, and authoritie (to the said Bysh. committed) for to enter visitation of the Chaunter and Chapter of the Cathedrall Churche, at an other daye to be executed by the Byshoppe himselfe, for reformation of the Chapiter Churche, and Ministers there, accordinge to the kings gracious ordinaunces and Iniunctions in that be∣halfe. But the aforesayd Chanter and Canon of the church, before the sight of any Commission, stubbornely answea∣red the sayde Chauncellour, that they woulde not receyue him, nor any other to visit them, except he were one of their Chapter. And further desiring to see his Commission, de∣••••uered the same into their handes, and would not deliuer it him again. And so it may appeare that he did nothing by force of that Commission.

To the seconde Article hee sayeth, that they opened not [ 2] vnto hym the danger of any statute to hys knowledge and remembraunce. Neuerthelesse, hee not knowing anye de∣faulte in the sayde Commission, and certainely minedynge wyth all diligence the faithfull execution of hys Office of preachinge, and visitinge the whole Diocesse in hys owne persone, by the kings Maiesties authoritie, for the conser∣uation of Gods peace, and the kings, in that daungerous time of rebellion, then beginning to arise in other places, did neglect and lay apart the stubborne behauiour and vn∣godly doings of the sayde Chaunter and Canon, and a∣greed wyth them, omitting all contemptes and reproches towardes him and his sayde Chauncellor, and all manner of contention by them done, fearing els that through theyr vnquietnesse, some tumult mighte haue risen amonges the people there, and did also make the sayd Chanter his Chā∣cellour, and Canon hys Commissarie, according to theyr ambitious desires, to appease their malice in that daunge∣rous time. And further, he sayeth that he made a Collation to syr Ioh. Euans of the Uicarage of Pembrin, what day or time he remembreth not, not by any olde forraine vsur∣ped authoritie, but by the kinges authoritie onely, making full mention of the kinges stile and authoritie in the same Collation.

To the thirde and fourth hee sayeth, that whereas hee [ 3. & 4.] hadde graunted to George Constantine the office of a Re∣gister, who brought vnto hym a Commission for the Chā∣cellourshippe to be sealed, and deliuered to the foresayde Chaunter of Saint Dauids, desiring the sayde Byshoppe to Seale it, hee vtterlye refused so to doe, because the sayde George hadde put therein a clause of admitting Clearkes into benefices: the which authority the said Bishop would not in any wise graunte, reseruing the examination and admission of Clearkes, onely to hymselfe, for the auoiding of wicked briberie and parcialitie. Whereuppon the sayde George and the Chaunter promised the said Byshoppe by their faith and trouthe, afore three or foure honest witnes∣ses, not to execute that clause of Institution into benefices, but onely to those Clearkes whome the Bishop did firste examine and admitte, and send vnto them for to be institu∣ted and inducted, vppon whych promise the Byshop sea∣led the sayde Commission. And after that time, the parso∣nage of Haskarde being voyde, and by the reason of laps deuolued to the Byshoppes gifte for that time, hee con∣ferred it to one Sir Henrie Godherd wyth a Collation or Institution by the kings authoritie, not extolling any for∣reine vsurped authoritie. In the which collation or insti∣tution is fully mentioned the renuntiation of the Byshop of Rome, and all forreine powers and authoritie, wyth the full stile of hys Maiesties supremacie. And this collation of the Churche of Haskarde he gaue, before he vnderstoode or knewe that hys Chauncellour had geuen oute the lyke, and hee surely thinketh, his Collation was the firste. That notwythstanding the sayde George Constantine, and the sayde Chaunter hauing a vowson determined by reason of laps, admitted and instituted one Iohn Gough, to the sayde personnage of Haskarde by vertue of their expired vowson and sealed hys institution wyth a wronge Seale, because they hadde not the right seale of office to that pur∣pose) contrary to theyr former earnest promesse, and the Bishoppes ryghte, and wythout any manner of warning or foreknowledge thereof to hym geuen, whych thynge by them vntruely done, the sayd George Constantine neuer∣thelesse came to the Byshoppes house, and there did wryte wyth hys owne hand the letters of Induction for the said Sir Henrye Godherd Prieste, comprising in the same the whole summe of the Institution or Collation, whyche the sayde Byshoppe hadde made, and the same George did seale the sayde letters of induction wyth his owne hande, fineding no maner of fault therein, nor making any worde or mention of hys and the Chauntours former wrong do∣ings, but so departed for that time. And afterward he came againe, and shewed the Byshoppe, what they hadde done before, concerning the Parsonage aforesayde. And further, the sayde Defendant sayeth, that he did not molest the sayd Iohn Gough, but lawfully did call him in the kings Ma∣iesties name, not for any title of Patronage, but to knowe, whether he were Parson of Haskarde, and howe hee was thereto admitted and instituted, and inducted, and by what authoritie he presumed to preach there, wythout the kings Maiesties licence, wyth other like lawfull demaundes, whereunto he sturdely refused to geue answere: and sayeth that the Article contained in hys accusation, sayinge thus. Item interrogetur quo titulo tenet rectoriam de Haskarde, was not ministred vnto the partie in that sorte, so farre as hee knoweth, but in these woordes or lyke. Quomodo intrauit in Rectoriam. &c.

To the fifth he sayth, that all be it George Constantine Register, did wilfully wythdrawe hys bounden seruice, [ 5] due to the Kings highnesse, and to the sayde defendaunt in the Kings name, refusing to attende either by hymselfe, or hys sufficient Deputie for wryting of Recordes and other Instruments, yet the sayd Defendant made his Collatiōs and Institutions in hys owne name, not by his owne au∣thoritie, nor by any others, saue onely the Kings authori∣tie, according as hee hath declared in hys aunsweare to the first Article, expressing in them the kings supremacie, with the Byshops owne name and seale of office, as hee oughte to doe, according to the prouision of the kinges Statute in suche a case.

To the sixth he sayeth, that the Uicarie of Pembrin be∣ing [ 6] voyde, he as righte patrone thereof to his knowledge, conferred it to Iohn Euans Clearke, wyth letters of in∣stitution and induction: and after when the kings presen∣tation came to him for one Dauid Ieinkin clearke, he desi∣red fourtene daies respite at that time, either to shew aun∣cient recorde for hys right, and then the matter to stande to the determination of the lawe, or elles if hee shewed not, bothe he and hys clarke, to geue place to the kings Clarke. Whych condition was by Syr Thomas Ioanes Knight, Doctour M. and the sayde Dauid Ieinkin receyued, and an Institution, wyth an Induction was made conditio∣nally to be putte into the handes of Sir Thomas Ioanes Knighte, for safe custodie for the kings Clearkes behoofe, after the fourteene dayes to be executed at the hands of the sayde Defendaunt, if he failed to shewe. Wythin whyche time the sayde Defendaunt did shewe an olde auncient re∣corde, declaring the full righte of Patronage, on the sayde Defendauntes behalfe, and so that Institution and In∣duction was neuer by the sayde Defendaunt putte in exe∣cution. Neuerthelesse, the sayde Dauid Ieinkin (contrary to hys promesse and othe, geuing thereuppon his righte hande to the sayde Syr Thomas Ioanes Knight) tooke aduauntage by the sayde wryting, wythout knowledge of the sayde Defendaunt. After whych time the Lord Chaun∣cellour by hys letters wrytten to the sayde Defendaunt, aduertised hym, to admitte one Iohn Appowell clearke, presented by vertue of a vowson which the L. Chancellor iudged to be good, and so to be admitted, notwythstanding his former presentation, whereby he would not abarre the other mannes right. And so thys Defendaunt made one Collation, two Institutions and three Mandates, doyng no wrong thereby to hys knowledge. And further he say∣eth, that there was no businesse nor vnquietnesse aboute the possession of the sayde Uicarage, but this Defendaunt geuing place, was content to loose hys right for that time.

To the seuenth he sayth, that as he nowe remembreth, [ 7] hee neuer decreed anye Caueates to be made in benefices, neither did institute nor cause to be inducted, any into be∣nefices, being knowne to hym litigious. [ 8]

To the eight he sayeth, that because the Archdeacons be absent from theyr Offices, and haue not had faithfull dili∣gent Officials, he hathe directed his Mandates to them or their Officials, or to other lawfull persons in that behalfe, so farre as he knoweth. [ 9. & 10.]

To the ninthe and tenthe Articles, he denieth as verye vntrue. [ 11]

To the xi. he sayth, that whereas Syr Thomas Ioans Knighte aduertised hym, that Thomas Pricharde had ce∣lebrated Matrimonie in a priuate house, betwixte a cer∣taine Priest, and a woman whose sister hadde refused the same, the sayde Pricharde leauing his owne cure vnserued on that Sonday, this defendant did put the same Thomas Prychard to penance for so doing, marying them without

banes. And wheras he made the said Thomas Aprichard, who is a Bachelor of law, his Commissary: it was for the respect of learning in the law, thereby faythfully to execute his office according to Iustice. And the sayde Defendaunt dyd neuer fauour nor beare with any man wittinglye in his wrong doinges. He confesseth that the Matrimonye was solemnized in a priuate church, and that the cure was that day vnserued.

[ 12] To the 12. he sayth, that it is slaunderous and vtterlye vntrue. And that one syr Iohn Hughs Priest, made Sage Hughs (daughter to his Steppemother) an harlot at 11. yeares of age, and after maryed openly to an other man, being Minister thereof himselfe. After whiche doyng, he tooke her away from her Husband agayne, and kept her, alledging a former contract. And when the sayde Iohn Hughs was lawfully conuicted before the sayde Byshop, in open Court at Carmarthen of that his abhominable a∣dultery, clayming the kinges pardon thereof, yet the sayde Sage confessed, that he had to do with her the night before that day of appearaunce. Whiche latter crime he denyed. Neuerthelesse, she proued with childe, affirming both be∣fore the byrth and after, the childe to be his, the Midwife and other being witnesses thereof. Yet notwithstandinge George Constantine as a wicked Bolsterer of the sayde Priest in hys naughtye doinges, with the helpe of the a∣foresayd Chaunter, fyrst vttered that Meredith Thomas was Father of the sayd childe, which matter was ordered in the Ecclesiasticall Court, according to Iustice without any parciall affection of the sayd Bishop, or of any other to his knowledge.

[ 13] To the 13. hee sayth, it is vtterly false so farre as he knoweth.

[ 14] To the 14. he sayth, that by lawfull sequestration in the Kinges Maiesties name, he committed the custody of the fruites of Langatnok, and Lanuihangell to two ho∣uost men, for the behoufe of the Kynges first fruites and tenthes, and of the next incumbent, and further he did not meddle nor minister any cause of vnquietnesse in that be∣halfe.

To the 15. he sayth, that he made a collation, lawfull [ 15] as he supposeth, of the prebend of Lanbister, to Stephen Greene his Chapleine without any couenaunt or colour, and further he did not meddle in that behalfe.

[ 16] To the 16. he sayth, all is vntrue as farre as he kno∣weth.

[ 17] To the 17. he sayth, it is all vntrue for his owne part, & for his officers, as farre as he knoweth.

[ 18] To the 18. he sayth, it is vntrue as farre as he know∣eth, and that he did certify the recusants iustly, as he thin∣keth, because they refused wilfully to paye the Kynges whole Subsidye, of theyr whole diuidenesse, as it stan∣deth in the Kinges booke, perteyning to the Canons re∣sident.

[ 19] To the 19. he sayth, that after trauayle of fourtene Miles, beyng not able fastyng to Celebrate Communi∣on, in a Chappell within the house of Syr Thomas Io∣anes Knyght, one of the Kinges Maiesties honourable Counsayle of the Marches of Wales: this Defendaunte celebrated Matrimony without the receyuing the Com∣munion for the causes abouesayd, betwixt Mayster Grif∣fith Ryce, and the Daughter of the sayde Syr Thomas Ioanes, accordynge to the kinges ordinaunces. And Thomas Upricharde Prieste administred the holy Com∣munion there, without any superstition, to this defen∣dauntes knowledge, and the maryed persons not dispo∣sed to receiue the holy Communion, he coulde not com∣pell them agaynst theyr consciences, and sayeth that hee didde not dispense with them as it is contayned in the ar∣ticle.

¶To the slaunderous and vntrue title of mayntenance of superstition. &c. he sayeth, that he did not maynteyne any superstition, contrary to the kinges ordinaunces and iniun∣ctions, but abhorring in his hart all superstition, hath trauel∣led and doth trauell to abolish the same by true doctrine and doyng, as much as he can, with the kinges peace amongst his people there.

[ 20] TO the 20. he sayth, that George Constantine in the third yeare of the kinges Maiestyes reigne, not regar∣ding the daungerous time of rebellion in other places, rashly caused to be pulled downe without any authoritye knowne to this defendaunt, the communion altar in Car∣marthen Church, by his owne presumptuous mynde ap∣pointing the vse thereof in another place of the church, not without grudge of the people. Wherefore the Bishop fea∣ring tumult, cōmaunded the vicar to set vp the communiō table (for the time) nere to the place where it was before.

To the 21. he sayth that he hath bene diuers tymes in [ 21] the quere of Carmarthen, and hath taried there in the com∣munion time not communicating himselfe, and that in e∣uery Church where he commeth on the holy day to preach, or to pray, he kneeleth in the quere bareheaded, as well at Matines before the Communion, as at Euensong after without any superstition: he thinketh it not necessary for the Communions sake to leaue kneeling to Christ. But he hath diligently taught the people not to kneele nor knocke to the visible shew, or externall shewe of the Sacrament. And the queres of Carmarthen and other places there, are not close at the sides, so that the people may come in and forth at theyr pleasure. Moreouer the Kinges ordinaun∣ces doth not authorise him to rebuke the people for knock∣ing on theyr brests in token of repentaunce of theyr sinnes nor for kneeling in token of submission to God for mercye in Christ.

To the 22. he sayth, that in time of rebellion in Deuon. [ 22] and Cornewall, threatening to come into Wales, he tea∣ching the people the true fourme of prayer, accordinge to Gods holy word, and declaring the prayer vpon beades to be vayne and superstitious, yet durste not for feare of tumulte, forceably take from any man his beades with∣out authority. And touching the not reproouing of suche as hee shoulde meete, wearing beades, hee remembreth not that he hath so done, vnlesse it were in the rebellion tyme, at whiche time he durste not rebuke suche Offen∣ders.

To the 23. he sayth, that he beyng in the Pulpitte, hys [ 23] face towardes the people, did not see the lightes, if anye were set vp about the corpes behinde his backe, till after that he came downe from the Pulpitte. But he with Ge∣orge Constantine and the aforesayde Chauntour, sittyng in the Church in Carmarthen, to heare causes, and see∣ing the Uicare with other Priestes, with song and lights bringyng a corpes vppe to the Church, called forthwyth the Uicare and Priestes, and rebuked them in open court as cormorantes and Rauens flying about the dead carcase for lucre sake.

To the 24. he sayeth, that he caused the one childe be∣yng [ 24] borne with great perill of death to the Mother, and it selfe lying for dead a certayne space after, to be christened on the workyng day: the other childe was Christened on the working day, because both Father and Mother, and al other people there, were in perill of death, by reason of the sodayne sweat, which all men feared at that time. And touching the rest of the accusatiō which is, that by that ex∣ample, it is vsed after the olde accustomed fashion, he kno∣weth no such thing.

¶To the tytle of Couetousnesse he sayth: that hys doynges prooue the contrarye as his neighbours kno∣weth.

And to the 25. Article he vtterly denyeth.

To the 26. he sayth, that his Hall at Aberguilly being [ 25] ruinous, he vseth for his Hall a greate Chamber adioy∣ning, [ 26] for his selfe and his seruauntes, and all manner of straungers, and besides twenty persons in house daylye. What other hospitality he keepeth, honest neighbours can testify.

To the 27. he sayth, that his talke is accordyng to his [ 27] hearers, that is to say reuerently and truely of fayth, loue, and honest lyfe, according to the Scriptures to like Au∣ditours, and to other vnreuerent and rash Turmoylers of Scriptures and holye doctrine he doeth talke of honest worldly thinges with Godly intent: and that he doeth not moste commonlye talke of suche thinges as are expressed in this Article, but when hee hath honest occation so to doe.

The 28. he sayth is vntrue, and that hee hath warned [ 28] no manne out of theyr landes: but where he is destitute of necessary prouision, and woulde haue part of his owne demayne from certayne free holdes, hauing it onelye from yeare to yeare, of pleasure, hee cannot obteyne it without brawlyng. Wherefore he suffereth them to keepe it euen yet still, agaynst right reason. And touching the rest, that he had rather the Crowes should eat it. &c. he ne∣uer spake any such word.

To the 29. he sayth that whereas hys Predecessour [ 29] Byshop Barloe did let to farme the Isle of Ramsay, to one William Browne, after whose handes this Defen∣daunt receiued it into his owne possession, the Uicars of Saynt Dauids being dispossessed of it long before, he let∣ted it ouer to Stephen Greene for 40. shillings the groūd, as it was before, and three poundes more for seales, con∣nies and foules there: & he knoweth of no right y^e Uicars Chorall had therein, who did refuse when this defendant

did diligently vpon reasonable conditions offer the same vnto them: and this defendant made no promise vnto thē, as is conteined in the Article.

To the 30. he sayth he knoweth not, but that he aduer∣tised [ 30] his Bayliffe to warne the freeholdes and other ha∣uing his demayne to rent during pleasure, to leaue it at a lawfull day, to this Defendantes necessary vse, and dyd not cause the Curate to do as is conteined in the Article to his remembraunce.

To the 31. he sayth, that he knoweth not what y^e priest [ 31] bad in the Churche, nor howe many plowes there came, vndesired of this Defendaunt. But he knoweth certein∣ly, that he desired no mans labour but for his mony.

To the 32. he sayth, that he knoweth not any such ap∣poyntment [ 32] of Schooles and reuenewes there but he foūd there (after the departyng of Byshop Barloe) a Schoole∣mayster, an Ussher being a Priest, and 20. Scholers, which he hath hitherto maynteined better then he founde it, to his knowledge: he did neuer conuert anye pennye therof to his owne vse, albeit he might lawfully haue done the same.

[ 33] The 33. he sayeth is all vntrue, so farre as hee kno∣weth.

To the 34. Article he sayth, he neuer purchased more [ 34] then three percels, whereof one was 2. shillinges 8. pence by yeare, the second, three shillinges foure pence, and the third 26. shillinges 8. pence or there about by yeare: the rest he denyeth.

To the 35. he sayeth, that he neuer bought of Lewes [ 35] Iohn Thomas his land good cheape, but after forty yeres purchase, not knowing at that time any suche thinge as is contayned in the article, agaynst the sayd Lewes Iohn. Neither badde he the Somner to lette him alone, but as soone as he hearde any thing of it, commaunded the Som∣ner to cyte him, and so he was cyted in this Defendantes house, occasionyng him to breake his bargayne, to the which Lewes this Defendaunt sayde these wordes. If you would geue me your land with an house full of golde, I cannot, nor will not suffer you to keepe a Lemman. Then the sayde Lewes affirming the latter woman to bee his wife, and the firste vnknowne to this Defendaunt, hee caused the sayde Lewes to bee called to the consistorye for tryall, where it hangeth yet: And also by lawfull pro∣cesse excommunicated the firste Woman, for that shee would not by any meanes appeare in the Court to claime or to confesse marryage with the sayde Lewes and so she standeth this day, at the poynt of significauit.

To the 56. he sayth, that whereas the Chauntour and [ 36] R. M. with other Chanons there, would not obey the Kynges Godlye Iniunctions, concerning the fyndyng a Schoole for poore mennes Chyldren, a Lectur of Di∣uinitye, Sermons on the Sondayes, repayring of their Church and Mansion houses, decent order and ministra∣tion there, but stubbornely counted themselues (with the Chauntour) to be a bodye politicke, without regarde of the Byshoppe and his lawefull monitions, beyng hym∣selfe named in theyr Shyre Statutes, Decanus, & quasi De∣canus, hauing also theyr Deanes stall in the quere, wyth a Prebende thereunto annexed, and the chiefe place in the Chapter house with a key of theyr Chapter Seale, beyng also by the Kynges Maiestyes Commission appoynted theyr Ordinary: yet woulde they not in anye wise deliuer vnto him a Booke of theyr Statutes, for the better know∣ledge of his and theyr duetyes, nor shewe vnto him their Recordes and Monumentes, for declaration of the kings right and his. For which cause, this Defendaunt by writ of quo warranto, lawefully called them to aunswere, which yet lyeth a sleepe, to the losse of the Kinges Maiestyes right. The time of deliuery of the sayd writte, he remem∣breth not.

The 37. he sayeth is all false, as farre as hee know∣eth.

[ 37]

¶To the title of wilfull negligence: he sayeth that hee hath vsed, to his power willing diligence.

[ 38] TO the 38. he sayth, that he being attendant (according to his bounden duetye) to serue the Kinges highnesse du∣ring the time of the parliament, from the first, vnto the last day, and then immediately after repayred into his Dio∣ces, and he might not trust R. M. the Chauntour, and George Constantine to execute faythfully the iurisdiction, because they had before (through theyr slaundrous life and not punishing misdoers) left the country in great enormi∣ty of filthy whoredome. And sayth farther, that one cause why he appoynted not an Officer. &c. was for that he lac∣ked his letters of authority of Iurisdiction.

[ 39.40.] The 39. and 40. he sayth are vntrue.

To the 41. he sayth, that how often he did minister the Communion he doth not remember, but in all other thin∣ges so farre as he knoweth, he hath studied to order hym∣selfe according to his vocation, as farre as he beleueth, hee goeth like a Minister.

To the 42. he sayeth, that hee hath not alienated hym∣selfe from studye, neyther preached vndiscreetly, nor re∣ported [ 42] the Scriptures vntruely to his knowledge: (but he hath bene very much hindered both from study & prea∣ching, by the malicious, crafty, and couetous behauiour of the forenamed persons.) And that he did set forth the do∣ctrine of honest maryage, as well of all other menne, as of Priestes, euen as the Scripture then rehearsed did mini∣ster occasion.

To the 43. he sayth, that reciting the wordes of Luke, [ 43] if thy brother haue offended agaynst thee, blame him, and if he repent, forgeue hym, and if he haue offended agaynst thee seuen tymes in one day, and seuen times in the daye be conuerted vnto thee, saying: I am sory, forgeue him: He sayd farther these wordes in effect: it appeareth by this place of scripture, that we are not bound (except he repent) to forgeue him, but we are bound to pray to God to for∣geue him, and to geue him grace to repent, that wee may forgeue him.

To the 44. he sayth, that he hath preached right often [ 44] at Carmarthen, as well as at other places, and hee sayeth that a great number at Aberguilly do vnderstand english very well.

To the 45. he sayth, that after he had preached fyrste at [ 45] Brecknocke, Carmarthen, Swanzy Laugharne, Tin∣by, Pembroche, Hereforde, Saynt Dauids, Cardigan, with other notable Townes, he hath since that time prea∣ched to a greate manye other poore Churches, but not in Tinby nor Pembroche: but for Hereforde he standeth in doubt. And whereas he brought with him at the first, a learned Preacher, of Godly life, the vngodly stubborne be∣hauiour of the persons before named, weryed him away. And wheras he had waged an other learned man, to come into his Dioces to preache, George Constantine by hys discouragement aduertised him from this Defendaunt.

To the 46. he sayth, that in all his Churches appro∣priated, there is both Bible and Paraphrases so farre as [ 46] he knoweth: and if the Priestes there woulde not shewe him the lacke thereof, yet should the Officialles declare it vnto him, that it might be amended (by his will) with∣out delay.

To the 47. he sayth, that George Constantine coue∣tously [ 47] ingrossed into his handes a great number of Para∣phrases, & wher as this Defendaunt hath admonished the Clergy to buy, euery one, for his discharge: and if the sayd George being Officiall of two Archdeaconries, and other Officials in theyr Office woulde declare vnto him, what Churches do lack Bibles or Paraphrases, he would cause it to be amended as much as in him lyeth.

¶To the title of Folly, he sayth that his desire is in true simple maner of his wordes, deedes, and other honest behaui∣our through Gods grace to shew Godly wisedome.

TO the 48. he sayth, that he thinketh no folly in the de∣cent [ 48] colour or fashion with honest vse of Saddle, Bri∣dle, Stirrops, Staffe, and other like necessary or conueni∣ent things, and sayth that he vseth a Saddle made after the Scottish fashion, with stirrops of iron vnuarnished & like spurs: and blacke bridle without studdes, the bit and snaf∣fle white as other mens be.

To the 49. he sayth, that whē he goeth abroad in win∣ter, [ 49] he weareth a hat to beare of rayne and snow, & in som∣mer, to shadow him from the Sunne, without any vowe of superstition or offence of the people.

To the 50. he sayth, that all is one to him, to ride or go, [ 50] as cause requireth, and whether he sayd as is conteyned in the article or not, he remembreth not. Howbeit he doth vse to go a foote.

To the 51. he sayth, that after lawfull prayer, it pleased [ 51] God to geue him a sonne begottē and borne in honest ma∣riage: whome he therefore caused to be named Samuell, presenting him to the minister to be receiued into Christes Church as a poore member of Christ: by the holy Sacra∣ment of baptisme was this done openly in the Cathedrall Church, with earnest grauity, and without offending any man: and also 2. wiues being before at variaunce, desired both to be Godmothers, whiche were both receiued to make vnity betweene them, not knowing any lawe to the contrary, nor none offence therby conceiued of the people.

To the 52. he sayth, that he doth vse with grauity, all honest louing enterteinement of his Chylde, to encourage [ 52] him hereafter, willinglye at hys Fathers mouth, to re∣ceiue

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wholesome doctrine of the true feare & loue of God, and sayeth that he hath whistled to hys Chylde, but sayde not, that the Chylde vnderstoode it, and that he aunswe∣red to one that founde fault with it, as is conteyned in the article.

To the 53. he sayeth, that hee was neuer Surueyor, but went to see Milforde Hauen for honest purpose, and not to suruey it: and for that hee at the sighte of a Seale whistled in his fist, such as meaned folly, might turne it to theyr purpose. And it is not true that he stoode whistlynge an hower to the Seale, nor that anye faulte was founde with it, nor any such aunswere made by him to his know∣ledge.

To the 54. he sayth, that if he did say, the destroying of the Frie, letteth plenty of Fish, he thinketh the same not a∣gaynst reason: but he remembreth not to haue sayd, as is conteined in the article.

To the 55. he saith, that he remembreth not that euer he sayd as they alledge.

To the slaunderous, vntrue, and vngodly conclusion, he saith that George Constantine with other his aduersa∣ries before named, and theyr adherents, not regarding the feare of God, and theyr bounden duety, of louing obediēce towards God and the king, and his true Ministers, haue to much slaunderously with false tongues, contumelious wordes, and spitefull deedes, labored by all meanes to dis∣credite and deface the kinges gracious authority, to hym committed. Who euer sithe he came to the Dioces, hath en∣deuored himselfe to shew his faythfull ministerye, by his true honest doinges, and to vse his authority according to his vocation, to Gods glory, and the kinges honour. And that he hath bene diligent in teaching of trueth, reforming of superstition, free of hospitality, diligent in ouerseeing with Godly wisedome, peace and mercifulnesse, as he tru∣steth in God, may be truely approoued. And he is able iust∣ly to charge his aduersaries with all the faultes herein by them most vniustlye and slaunderously agaynst hym obie∣cted. And he doth maruell greatly, that George Constan∣tine with other his adherentes are not ashamed, malici∣ously to obiect for the intent to sclaunder hym, with mo∣lesting of preachers founden there. For trueth it is that he hath molested none, but hath iustly brought vnder signifi∣cauit one Morice a Preacher, liuing lewdly for his stub∣borne behauiour and malicious contemptes, euen yet con∣tinuing in his wilfull contempt and irregularity. And he hath (to his knowledge) iustlye certified Hugh Raulyns Parson of Tynby, for his wilfull recusancy of two other Personages, shamefully deceiuing the Kynges maiestye by coulour of Commission, as appeareth by the same. And as for the rayling, contemptuous preaching of R. M. and the vnlearned arrogant preaching of the Chauntoure he referreth to discreete Hearers, whiche were offended thereat, as they shewed this Defendaunt. And this De∣ponent brought into his Dioces, both learned Preachers, and learned men in the lawe, to his verye great charges, which men George Cōstantine with his adherentes hath weried away.

¶After these aunsweres thus exhibited by the vertu∣ous and Godly Byshop agaynst the quarrelling and fri∣uolous articles of his foresayd aduersaryes, to wit Hugh Raulins, and Thomas Lee, then came in for witnes vp∣on the sayd articles and informations, George Constan∣tine, and the Chauntour of S. Dauids, agaynst whom the Byshop layde first exceptions, then also exhibited matter iustificatory, the tenor and processe whereof here foloweth in order to be sene, first concerning the exceptions, and af∣ter the matter iustificatory.

*Exceptions generall, layd and purposed on the be∣halfe of Robert, Byshop of S. Dauids, agaynst all and singu∣ler the pretensed Witnesses producted on the behalfe of Hugh Raulins Clerke, and Thomas Lee vpon theyr vntrue surmised Articles, by them exhibited vnto and before the kinges most honorable Counsel, by the deuise and procure∣ment of the Chaunter, and George Constantine, with R. M. Clerke, agaynst the sayd Byshop.

FIrst the sayd Byshop sayth and alledgeth that by law, there ought no fayth or credence to bee geuen vnto the depositions and sayinges of the sayde witnesses, nor anye part thereof, because they are infamous, false, periured, and in some part of theyr depositions discording, parciall, conducted, subornate, instructed, and for fauour of the in∣formers, & theyr bolsterers, haue deposed of malice, more then the articles wherupon they were producted doth cō∣teine, and beside, and without the compasse of the same ar∣ticles, and in diuers other partes of theyr depositions, they depose vnum & eundem praemeditatum sermonem, as by theyr sayd depositions doth appeare, vnto the which the sayd Bishop referreth himselfe as much as it shalbe expe∣dient for him, and none otherwise. And further, for other causes particularly and specially, as is declared in y^e booke of exceptions.

¶Exceptions agaynst the vnlawfull proceedinges of Hugh Raulins Clerke, and Thomas Lee, Promoters of the foresayd vntrue Articles, in executing of theyr commission, for proofe of the same.

ITem, the sayd Thomas Lee for himselfe and the other Promotour dyd, contrary to iustice at the execution of theyr Commission, examine certayne of the Wytnesses himselfe, in the house of his Brother in law George Con∣stantine and the sayde Lee: and Dauid Walter the By∣shoppes mortall enemy, and seruaunt to the sayd George Constantine, did write these Depositions vpon the Arti∣cles at theyr owne pleasures, and also after the deuise of the sayd George Constantine and the Chauntour and R. M. the Byshoppes mortall enemies, and the very De∣uisers and Procurers of the informations and bolsterers and bearers of the Promotours in the suite thereof. These are the names of the Wytnesses so examined, whyche are already knowne. Dauid ap Syr Richarde of Gertus a periured and an adoulterous person••, standinge in the number for two Wytnesses, written in two places of the booke. Item, ap Ruddz of Kemarthe, Griffeth ap Ho∣well, Guyne of Kennarthe, Lewes Dauid Clerke, Dauid ap Haruye Clerke, Syr Goghe alias Mor∣gon. &c.

Item, one Iohn Draper of Carmarthen and adhe∣rent of the foresayd aduersaryes, and enemies to the sayd Bishoppe, did also contrary to the tenour of theyr Com∣mission, examine certayne Wytnesses, and hadde to hys Clerke one William Dauids, seruaunt in Liuery vnto the foresayd Griffith Donne, the Bishoppes vtter ene∣my, by whiche shamefull parciallity, they haue written more matter, moe wordes, other termes and sentences, then some of the Deponentes hath deposed or coulde de∣pose. Humphery Toye the fift Deponent, Rice Goughe the 14. Deponent, William ap Ienkins the 5. Deponent, Iohn Beng••y the lxviij. Deponent, Richard Parson. 39. which are already knowne, what maner of men the Pro∣moters are.

Item, the sayd Hugh Raulins was not present at the Bishops sermon, whereof his information maketh men∣tion, neither yet at there cutting of the Commission for proofe therof: for the foresayd aduersaries did deuise y^e same & gaue it vnto the sayd Raulins to promote, choosing him for the same purpose, knowing him to be a man willing (& setting his whole delight) to worke mischiefe, both wyth word and deede, who abuseth his toung most shamefully, with most vnsetting wordes, euer rayling vpon the sayde Bishop, to euery man that will heare him without eyther respect, or reuerence of the kinges Maiesties authoritye to the sayd Bishop committed. And the said Raulins hath 4. or 5. Benefices aboue the vallure of 200. Markes a yeare, and is resident vppon none of them, but spendeth his liuing to the hinderaunce of other men, going aboute here and there, wandring to and fro, without either man or boye wayting on him, more like a light person, then a man of such liuelode and of his vocatiō, being a preacher. And in deede he is taken for a lewd felow of all that know his behauiour, in so muche that when a certayne man ob∣iected vnto the aduersaries that it was ill done to putte so lewd a felow as Raulins to promote theyr cause, they an∣swered and reported his honesty with these wordes: wee know Raulins to be a very knaue, and so meet for no pur∣pose as he is to set forward such a matter: of which reporte there is sufficient witnesse. And it is thought that he hath done much ill with his spitefull toung: for he speaketh as boldly in this surmised matter to al the Coūsel, as though it were true, and much for the kinges profit.

Item, the other Promoter Thomas Lee is a Mar∣chaunt, who hath sold his ware and spent his money, and now for want of other businesse, is become a Promoter of the foresayd articles, hauing his costes and charges borne by the sayd principall aduersaries, as it is alledged in the Bishops exceptions, which shalbe proued if commission might be awarded for the purpose.

¶And thus much concerning the exceptions agaynst his pretensed accusers: next foloweth the matter iustifica∣tory exhibited by the sayde Bishop, in defence of his owne cause, as by the effect here appeareth.

*Certayne Articles ministred by Robert Byshop of S Dauids, agaynst a surmised information exhibited by Tho∣mas Lee, to the Kinges Maiestie his most honorable Coun∣sell, agaynst the sayd Byshop.

IN primis. viz: That there ought none aduauntage to be taken agaynst the sayde Byshoppe, of the contentes of the sayd pretensed information, for the causes particularly folowing. And first, where as it is obiected agaynst the sayde Byshoppe, in the Fyrste, Seconde, and Fyft ar∣ticles of the same information, and that hee contrarye to the Kynges Highnesse Lawes and Statutes, and in the derogation of hys Hyghnesse Supremacy, passed a cer∣tayne Commission, Institutions, and Collacions to be∣nefices, in his owne name, making no mention of the Kynges Highnesse authority, where as of trueth the sayd Byshop if he had passed out the Commission, Instituti∣ons, and Collacions in his owne name, and without the Kynges Maiestie hys Style, as is surmised (as hee did not) yet had he not offended neither Lawes nor Sta∣tutes of this Realme therein,* 1.4 as doth and may appeare e∣uidently by the same statutes and Lawes to the which he referreth himselfe.

Item, whereas it is deduced in the Thyrde Article of the sayd pretensed information, that the Chauncellour of the sayde Byshop dyd admitte and institute Iohn Gough into the Rectorye of Haskarde, and gaue a Mandate for the induction of the sayd Iohn▪ vnder the Kynges Ma∣iestyes Seale Ecclesiasticall, for the Diocesse of Sayncte Dauids with the Teste of the sayd Byshoppe, and Sub∣scription of the sayd Chauncellour, which thing so dedu∣ced, if it be true, yet the sayd Byshoppe cannot be wor∣thely blamed therof. But the Chauntour, then his Chaun∣cellour vnworthy, shewed himselfe therein verye igno∣raunt of the Kynges Statutes of Parliament,* 1.5 wherein it is expressely prouided, that in suche cases the Ordinarye ought to passe all suche Institutions and Inductions in his owne name, and vnder his owne Seale, and not in the Kynges Maiestyes name, nor vnder his Seale. And further of very trueth the sayd Chauncellour in admitting and instituting the sayd Clerke to the sayd benefice, with∣out the knowledge and consent of the sayd Byshop, dyd exceed his Commission, forasmuch as the sayd Byshop at the graunting of his Commission of his Chauncellour∣shyppe vnto the sayd Chauntour, had restrayned him ex∣pressely from the admitting and instituting of any Clerke to any Benefice within the sayde Diocesse, except the same Clerke were first examined, found worthy, and admitted by the sayd Byshop himselfe to the same benefice.

Itē, wheras in the 4. Article of the sayd information it is conteined, that the sayd Bishop, after the admitting and instituting of the sayd Iohn Gough, as is aforesayd, obie∣cted articles agaynst him, amongest the which it was con∣teined in effect.

* 1.6Item, interrogetur quo titulo tenet rectoriam de Haskarde: True it is that the sayde Byshop, without molestation of the sayd Gough, otherwise then Law did permitte, and without takyng vppon hym the cognition of tytle of the sayd fruites and patronage of the sayd benefice, in contēpt of the Kinges Maiesties regall Crowne and dignity, and without any derogation of the Kinges Maiesties lawes and statutes of this realme, did interrogate the sayd Iohn Gough, how he held the sayd Benefice, being admitted and instituted to the same, without his knowledge or con∣sent, as he might lawfully do, and as it is meet euery Or∣dinary should know how Pastours are admitted to anye cure within theyr Dioces.

Item, touching the contentes of the Sixt article of the sayd information, the sayd Byshop aleadgeth that the vi∣caredge of Pembrin, in the Dioces of Saynt Dauids be∣ing voyde, he as Patrone thereof to hys knowledge con∣ferred it to Iohn Euans Clarke, wyth Letters of institu∣tion and induction, and after when the Kynges presenta∣tion came to him for one Dauid Ienken Clerke, he desi∣red xiiij. dayes respite at that day, eyther to shewe aunci∣ent recorde for his right, and then the matter to stand to the determination of the Lawe, or els if hee shewed not, both he and his Clerke to geue place to the Kynges clerk: which condition was by Syr Thomas Ioanes Knyght, Doctour Merike, and the sayd Dauid Ienkin receyued, and an institution with an induction was made conditi∣onally, to be put into the handes of Syr Thomas Ioanes Knyght, for safe custodye for the Kinges Clerke his be∣houe, after the xiiij. dayes to be executed at the handes of the sayd Byshoppe if he fayled to shewe, within whyche tyme the sayde Byshoppe did shewe an olde auncient re∣corde, declaring the full right of Patronage on the sayde Byshoppes behalfe, and so that institution and inducti∣on was neuer put in execution by the sayde Byshop. Ne∣uerthelesse the sayd Dauid Ienkin (contrarye to his pro∣mise and othe, geuyng thereupon his right hand to Syr Thomas Ioanes Knyght) tooke aduauntage by the said writing without knowledge of the sayde Byshoppe, af∣ter whiche time the Lorde Chauncellour by hys Letters written to the sayde Byshoppe, aduertised hym to admit one Iohn ap Howell Clerke, pretensed by vertue of a vowson whiche the Lorde Chauncelloure iudged to bee good, and so to be admitted, notwithstanding his former presentation whereby hee woulde not abarre the other mannes right: And so the sayd Byshoppe made one col∣lation, two institutions and three Mandates, doing no wrong thereby to hys knowledge. And further there was no businesse nor vnquietnesse about the possession of the sayd Uicarage. But the sayd bishop geuing place, was cō∣tent to lose his right for that time.

Item, whereas Syr Thomas Ioanes aduertised the sayd Byshop that Thomas Pricharde Clarke, had cele∣brated Matrimony in a priuate house, betwixt a certayne Prieste and a Woman whose Syster had refused the same (as it is deduced in the xi. Article of the surmised Articles layd in agaynst the sayd Byshop) the sayde Prichard lea∣uing his owne cure vnserued, that Sonday, he did putte the sayd Thomas Prichard to penaunce for suche his mis∣doinges, and the sayde Pricharde did suche penaunce as was enioyned him to doe. And whereas the sayd Byshop made the same Thomas Prichard (who is Bachelour of law) his commissary, it was for the respect of his learning in the law, therby faythfully to execute his office according to iustice, and none otherwise.

Item, in the xiiij. Article of the sayde surmised Infor∣mation it is vntruely declared that through the vnlawfull sequestration of the fruites of the Benefices of Langatok and Lanuihangell Cundy, and the vndiscreete handlyng of the sayd Byshoppe, there were raysed a great number of people, to the great daunger of the Inhabitantes ther∣aboutes. Trueth it is that the sayd Byshoppe vpon good and Lawefull considerations, and specially for that the Kynges Maiestye should be truely aunswered of his first fruites, and Tenthes of the sayd Benefices, he did law∣fully (and as he was bounde to doe) sequester the sayde fruites in the Kinges Maiestyes name, and by his autho∣rity, and committed the custodye thereof for a time vnto two honest men, to the effect aforesaid, and none otherwise without any occasion of tumult or gathering of the people through his default or folly.

Item, whereas it is alleadged in the xix. article of the information, that the Byshop did celebrate Matrimonye in his owne person, without receiuing or Ministryng the Communion to the persons maryed, it is true, for that the sayd Byshop had trauayled xiiij. long wealche myles, and not able to celebrate the holye Communion fasting, and for other reasonable and lawefull causes him mo∣uing, did in a Chappell within the house of Syr Tho∣mas Ioanes Knighte (one of the Kinges honourable Counsell of the Marches of Wales) solemnise Matrimo∣ny betwixt Mayster Griffith Ryce, and the Daughter of the sayd Syr Thomas Ioanes, without either receiuing the holy Communion hymselfe or Ministring the same to the persons maried, being as then not disposed so to do it, lawfully and godly without any such superstitious knoc∣kinges or blessinges or other vncomely gestures as is de∣duced in that article.

Item, touching the contentes of the residue of all the sayd articles, conteined in the sayde information, the sayde Bishop, partly for the auoyding of tediousnes, and partly for that some of them be vntrue and mere false, some other generall, obscure, friuolous, vayne, and of none effect, but of malice and euill will, contrary to truth conceaued, lea∣ueth them particularly vnaunswered vnto.

Item, the sayd Bishop alledgeth that he hath not by al the time that he hath bene Byshop vsed any superstitions or Papistry as it is vntruelye surmised agaynst him, but hath and doth to the vttermost of his power, witte, and cunning, set forth, maynteine, preach, and teache the true doctrine of the Gospell, and such laudable doctrine as hee ought to do by the kinges Lawes, Iniunctions and pro∣ceedinges, and for such a teacher he hath bene and is com∣monly knowne, named, reputed, taken, and accepted noto∣riously.

And where the sayde Chauntour and George percey∣ued theyr depositions to be insufficient, they required, and hadde Commission into the Countrey to examine further Witnesses, which they executed very parcially, and vn∣lawfully, as is alleadged in the Byshops exceptions, a∣boue mentioned. And whereas to the sayd Raulins & Lee were awarded two seuerall Commissions, they by fauour

of the officers, and for sparing of costes, conioyned both in one, had iij. months to make returne, as appeareth by the copy of their commission, which hereafter followeth.

¶A copy of the Commission awarded downe into the Countrey, for the examination of Witnesses.

EDwardus sextus dei gratia, Angliae, Franciae, & Hyberniae rex, fidei defensor, & in terra Ecclesiae Anglicanae & Hyber∣niae supremum caput, dilectis & fidelibus suis Georgio Harbert militi, Thomae Iones militi, & Iohanni Wogan militi, ac dilectis sibi Dauid Vaughan, & Owino ap Owen armigeris salutem. Sci∣atis quod nos de fidelitatibus, & prouidis circumspectionibus vestris plurimum fidentes, assignauimus vos, quatuor, tres, ac duos vestrum, ac tenore praesentium damus vobis quatuor, tri∣bus, vel duobus vestrum plenam potestatem, & autoritatem ca∣piendi & recipiendi depositiones & examinationes quorumcun∣que testium ex parte Hugonis Rawlins Clerici, & Thomae Leghe, de & super quibusdam articulis per ipsos Hugonem, & Thomam Leghe consilio nostro exhibitis & praesentibus inclusis. Necnon depositiones & examinationes in scriptis redigendas. Et nos de huiusmodi examinationibus, & depositionibus cum sic per vos, quatuor, tres vel duos vestrûm captae fuerint, in Cancellariam nostram in crastino Ascēsionis domini proxime futurae, vbicun∣que tūc fuerit sub sigillis vestris, quatuor, trium vel duorum ve∣strum clausis certificandum remittentes nobis tunc articulos praedictos vna cum hoc breui. Et ideo vobis mandamus, quod circa p••aemissa diligenter intendatis cum effectu.

Teste me ipso apud Westmon. 9. die Martij. Anno regni nostri sexto.

Marten.

DUryng all this tyme of the examination of the witnes∣ses, the sayd Bishop was stayed at London, vpon the allegation of the sayd aduersaries, which was: that if the sayd B. should depart into his dioces, he would let them of their prooues.

And at the returne of their commission, it was signified vnto the Counsail what a great number of witnesses they had examined, viz. sixe score and vij. which sounded very hamons in the counsailes eares.

And about three weekes after, Publication of theyr witnesses was graunted, and after that, it was a fortnight or the B. could get a copy written of their depositions, be∣cause the booke therof is so huge and monstrous.

Then the Bishop desired tyme: First, to enquire of what condition the persones were that had witnessed a∣gaynst hym, and to make exceptions, and matters to iusti∣fie direct contrary, and to haue a commission for the proofe thereof, which was then graunted. And now it is obiec∣ted that the Bishop was appoynted so to trauell with the expedition of hys matter, that he should haue sued out his Commission, and haue made returne therof at Alhallow∣tide last past, but there was no such decree put in writyng. And it was not possible for the Bishop to doe it in so short a time, these causes considered which he would not auoid, as followeth.

First, it was the latter end of Iuly, ere he came home to S. Dauids, where he began his visitation, which be∣fore was appointed.

Secondly, he was by force of law constrained to aun∣swer at the barre daily, during all the tyme the great Ses∣sions at Carmarthen, in defence of hys iust cause agaynst the pretensed matter of premunire, which his aduersaries of meere malice hath procured agaynst hym.

Thirdly, the said aduersaries to molest hym further, did priuily packe a quest of ignorant persons of no reputa∣tion, and indited hym vpon the words of Raulins infor∣mation, as appeareth by a copy of the inditement, enten∣ding thereby to make the matter sound more hainous, not¦withstanding y^t the same cause dependeth before the kings high counsaile vndetermined.

Fourthly, hee was appointed by the Commissioners before his departure from London, to pay two hundreth pound (which was arrerages) into the court of first fruits and tenths, at Bartlemew day then next folowing, which payment he made accordingly, notwithstanding, that hys aduersaries wrought meanes to haue made hym breake hys day: namely, one Edward Harbard Gentleman, who hath a personage of his to Farme, kept backe his rent to the very last day, because that money should not helpe to serue his turne: and so by crafty cauillation deteyneth it still in his hand with a yeres rent and a halfe more: for the sayd Edward Harbert is an adherent of the sayd Bi∣shops aduersaries.

Fiftly, the booke of their depositions is so great, that it asketh a long tyme to peruse. And also the greatest part of their witnesses were vtterly vnknowen of the bishop and all his. And also dwellyng in so many sondry places of the Dioces among the mountaines and els where, scarcely within the circuit of two hundred miles.

Item, another great Sessions holden at Carmarthen in the moneth of October last, during which tyme he was attendant there as is aforesayd. All which causes conside∣red, beyng also in the tyme of his ordinary visitatiō, which he did execute himselfe, he could not make redy his excep∣tions in shorter tyme.

The sayd Bishop dispatched his man towards Lon∣don, the 23. day of October, who euer sithens hath bene and is attendaunt in the same sute, for the obtainyng of the Commission, for proofe of his matter agaynst hys ad∣uersaries.

¶A copy of a certaine letter written by the Bish. of S. Dauids.

MOst humbly sheweth vnto your honour, your poore Orator Robert Bishop of Saint Dauies, that where as one Thomas Lee (by the procurement of T. Y. and R. M. beyng both Canons of Saint Dauies, & George Constantine Register to the sayd Bishop) hath exhibited vnto your honour agaynst him certayne articles, in the which are mentioned many triflyng things, vnworthy to be declared in your honourable audience, and also theyr pretensed weighty articles (as they haue alledged there) are vtterly vntrue: for proofe whereof the ••ayd Thomas Lee hath had Commissions into the countrey: Therefore it may please your honour of your fauourable goodnes, to graunt vnto your sayd Oratour a lyke Commission for the examination of witnesse, in defence of his truth and ho∣nesty against the sayd Thomas Lee, George Constantine and the aforenamed Rowland Merike, and all other per∣sons with theyr iniust articles, attestations, and sayings, which hath deposed against hym. And in tender considera∣tion that your sayd Orator standeth boun••en, and sureties with hym, in the summe of a thousand markes, to appeare before the Kings Iustice, in the Sessions at Carmarthen, in Iuly next commyng, to aunswer to a forged matter of premunire, by the procurement and counsaile of his fore∣named aduersaries, maliciously surmised agaynst hym to his vtter vndoyng. And furthermore, your Orator be∣yng in debt to the Kings Maiesty, by reason of the mali∣cious vexation of his foresayd aduersaries, cannot (if hee remayne here) satisfie the same: for where as there be re∣rages to a great summe (as well of the Kings money as of his owne rentes) he can receiue none thereof, hys ad∣uersaries hath made such ill report to his discredite, bea∣ryng the people in hand, that he shall come no more the∣ther. By reason of which brute, neither his owne tenants will pay theyr rentes and rerages, nor the priests their re∣rages due to the Kyngs Maiesty, as well for anno secun∣do, and tertio, as for quarto and quinto. In consideration of all which thyngs, it may ylease your honourable goodnes to licence your sayd Orator to depart into the Diocesse, for these affayres and other. And hee is ready at all tymes at your honourable commaundement, and pleasure, to re∣payre agayne, and euer to pray to the Lorde Iesu for the perpetuall conseruation of your honour, to his glory.

¶Another letter written by the Bishop of S. Dauies.

RIght honourable, and my very especiall good Lorde, with humble seruice and harty thanks to God: and to you for your godly fauour towardes me at all tymes, as right playnly appeareth by your fatherly letters, most lo∣uingly admonishing me to enclyne vnto that which is ve∣ry necessary, as charitable concorde and vnitie: This is furtherly to besiche your Lordship for the Lordes sake not to be grieued, but benignly to heare, and grauely to pon∣der that weighty matter, which appearing (to other) but a light griefe to me, is in very deede a right grieuous of∣fence to God, with no little hinderaunce of his holy word, and disturbance of the Kings godly proceedyngs, & may be a great occasion of much inobedience, and disorder of good lyfe. Wherefore I am straightly bounden for the true zeale that I (ought to) beare vnto Gods worde of lyfe, Christian religion, the Kings Maiesties honour, and the godly quiet state of hys people, not faintly to let fall the burthen of diligent redresse to bee sought at his Maiesties handes by the godly wisedome of hys most honourable and vpright Counsaile, but with harty affection to beare it vp against those high mynded, arrogant, stubburne, am∣bitious, couetous canons, trusting in their biting tonges, with crafty preuention, and vtterly vntrue surmises, to

stoppe the light that their vngodly misdoings in darknes shal either not be seene, or at the lest may seeme to appeare in colourable appearance of right. In so much that I doe not a little maruell at these qualities in M. Chaunter, the Canon, and the Deane of Worcester, whose vngentle and vntrue behauiour I haue not only knowen, but expertly prooued, and sensibly feeled in two of the first to my great losses whereof I make no complaynt. But I woonder in my mynd and lament in my heart the straunge alteration and wilfull goyng backeward of myne old faithfull bro∣ther George Constantine, the whiche (knowing them all three to haue bene in tymes past eyther obstinate ene∣mies to the true bearers of the Crosse of Christ, or at the least priuye lurkers vnder pretence of fauour towardes the Gospell, to sting the poore followers thereof, seekyng but their owne lucre and pleasure in all their doinges) would so earnestly cleaue vnto them in their wrōg deeds, as to betray me with his tong, become vntrue of his pro∣mise, and a bearer of filthy sinne for lucres sake, euen yet stifly persisting in the same (namely) in thyngs manifestly known vnto many, although he would deny it, and that I might not be credited. And as for their premunire, both George and they at my first commyng, vngētly deteining from M. Ferlee hys commission for the Chauncellorship, would haue faced mee downe with premunire, because it was written in my owne name accordyng to the statute: yet was I fayne for the zeale of vnitie, not to see their vn∣curteous deedes, departing with M. Farlee for the auoy∣dyng of their malice and enuy, and gaue that office for the a••••tie of George, vnto M. Chaunter his sonne in lawe, and to D. Merike the office of Cardigan. But seyng after∣ward their couetous respect to their own glory and lucre, not regarding the reformation of sinne and specially of shameles whoredome, I was compelled to remooue thē, sore agaynst their wyls: and where as I desired many and sondry tymes charitable redresse of their wrong do∣yngs in the vacation time, I obtained many faire words, and nothyng in deede. Also desiring to haue sight of the booke of Statutes of the church, for the knowledge of my duety and theirs, I could not obtayne. Desiring to haue a key of y^e Chapter seale, as my L. of Bathe had, they would not deliuer it but vpon conditions: yet was I content to be brideled, receiuyng it, as pleased them to geue it. And further requiring the sight of necessary euidences, for the declaration of diuers thyngs in trauers of my right, they would in no wyse graunt it. And thereupon consideryng their vngentlenes, I mooued the quo warranto, knowyng right well that if they should shew any substantiall grant vnder the kings seale for their corporation, it must therein appeare the Bish. to be the hed, and euer hath bene vnder the kyng: for other they neuer haue, nor had, except they would returne to Rome againe, as I trust they will not. And yet perceiuyng afterward that they had no speciall graunt to shew, or els such as they would not shew. I my selfe for the respect of vnitie, wrote my letters to the kings Attorney, by reason whereof the quo warranto was stayed, and so yet remaineth. But touching the certificate, y^e kings subsidie beyng due at Michaelmas last, and forborne tyll after Christmas, and lawfully demaunded afore, they dyd vtterly refuse to pay, both to my Uice collector and to my selfe, except I would take it of thē in portions, not know∣ing where to aske the rest, and it is committed vnto me in the Kings roll, a whole summe in grosse to be receyued of the Canons Residentiaries for their diuidēt, who because they cannot agree in deuiding, would haue the kings ma∣iestie to tary for hys money till they can agree to make di∣uision. And I cannot demaund it of any perticular person nor at any perticular place. Wherfore I most humbly be∣seech your fatherly goodnes for the Lordes sake, to persist and continue my good Lord and friend, vnto such tyme as ye fynd me eyther desiring to be defended in my wrong, or not willyng to put the iudgement of my right cause into your hands. And because that the residue of matters tou∣chyng them and their vngentle, vntrue, and vngodly do∣yngs is too long, and I haue molested you too much with this my tedious letter, I shall now surcease: humbly be∣seeching your good Lordship to accept in good part this my boldnesse, proceedyng of necessitie, and to pardon it for the loue of our Lorde Iesu, who saue and keepe you in health, comfort, and honor, long to endure for thaduance∣ment of his glory.

Written at Aburguily this ix. of March.

Your Lordships to com∣mand during lyfe. R. F.

And thus you haue heard the first trouble of this bles∣sed Martyr of the Lord, in King Edwards dayes, wyth the whole discourse thereof. Which we thought the rather here to expresse, to geue other good bishops warning to be more circumspect, whom they should trust and haue about them. Briefly, in few wordes to conclude this processe, B. Farrer, partly vpon the importunate sute of his aduersa∣ries, partly vppon the sinister and infortunate fall of the good Duke of Somerset, by whom he had bene before pro∣mooted and maynteined, hauyng but small fauour shew∣ed, was deteined in prison, till the death of king Edward, and the commyng in of Queene Mary and popish religi∣on, whereby a new trouble rose vpon hym being now ac∣cused and examined for his fayth and doctrine. The pro∣cesse of which his trouble here likewyse followeth.

After that the foresayd M. Farrer Bishop of S. Da∣uids had bene long deteined in custody vnder sureties, in the raigne of king Edward, not for any iust cause of hys part deserued, but by reason that he had bene promoted by the D. of Somerset, and now after his fall he found few∣er friends to support him agaynst such as hunted after his Bishoprike, at length after the decease of king Edward, by the commyng in of Queene Mary, the state of religion be∣gan to be chaunged and altered.* 3.1 Whereby a new trouble rose vpon hym, beyng now accused and examined, not for any matter of Premunire, but for his fayth and doctrine. Whereupon he was called before the Bish. of Winchester, with M. Hooper, M. Rogers, M. Bradford, M. Saun∣ders and others aforesayde, the 4. of February. On the which day hee should also with them haue bene condem∣ned: but because laisure or list did not so well then serue the Bish. his condemnation was deferred, and he sent to prison agayne, where he continued tyll the 14. day of the sayd moneth of February. What his examinations & aun∣swers were before the said B. of Winchester, so much as remayned and came to our handes, I haue here annexed in maner as followeth.

¶The answer of Rob. Farrer B. of S. Dauids, before Winchester and others.

AT his first commyng and kneelyng before my Lorde Chauncellour, the Bishop of Duresme,* 3.2 and the Bish. of Worcester, who sate at the table, and Maister Rochester Maister Southwell, Maister Bourne and other standing at the tables end, the Lord Chauncellor said vnto hym on this sort.

Winchester.

Now sir, you haue heard how the world go∣eth here.

Farrer.

If it like your honor I know not.

Winch.

What say you? Doe not you know things abroad, notwithstanding you are a prisoner?

Farrer.

No my L. I know not.

Winchest.

Lo, what a froward fellow is this?

Farrer.

If it please your Lordship, how should I know a∣ny thyng abroad, beyng a prisoner?

Winch.

Haue ye not heard of the commyng in of the Lord Cardinal?

Farrer.

I know not my L. Cardinall, but I heard that a Cardinall was come in, but I did not beleue it, and I be∣leue it not yet.

Worcest.

I pray your Lordship (said the B. of Worcester) tell hym your selfe, that he may know what is done.

Winch.

The Queenes Maiesty and the Parliament,* 3.3 hath restored religion into the same state it was in at the begin∣nyng of the raigne of K. Henry the 8. Ye are in y^e Queens debt, and her maiesty will be good vnto you, if you will re∣turne to the catholike church.

Farrer.

In what state I am concernyng my debtes to the Queenes Maiestie in the Court of Excheker, my Lorde Treasurer knoweth: and the last tyme that I was before your honor, & the first tyme also, I shewed you, that I had made an othe neuer to consent nor agree,* 3.4 that the Bish. of Rome should haue any power or iurisdiction within this Realme: and further, I need not to reherse to your Lord∣ship, you know it well enough.* 3.5

Bourne.

You wer once abiured for heresie (said M. Bourn) in Oxford.

Farrer.

That was I not.

Bourne.

You were.

Farrer.

I was neuer, it is not true.

Bourne.

You went from S. Dauids to Scotland.

Farrer.

That did I not.

Bourne.

You did.

Farrer.

That did I neuer, but I went from Yorke into Scotland.

Bourne.

Ah so said I: you went with Barlow.

Farrer.

That is true, but neuer from S. Dauids.

Bourne.

You caried bookes out of Oxford, to the Archb. of Yorke, L. Lee▪

Farrer.

That did I not.

Bourne.

You did.

Farrer.

I did not, but I caried old bookes from s. Oswalds to the B. of Yorke.* 3.6

Bourne.

You supplanted your maister.

Farrer.

That did I neuer in my lyfe.

Bourne.

By my faith you did.

Farrer.

Forsooth I did not, neuer in my life, but I did shield and saue my Maister from danger, and that I obteined of King Henry the eight, for my true seruice, I thanke God therefore.

Bourne.

My L. (said M. Bourne to my L. Chauncellor) he hath an ill name in Wales, as euer had any.

Farrer.

That is not so. Whosoeuer sayth so, they shall neuer be ab••e to prooue it.

Bourne.

He hath deceyued the Queene in diuers summes or money.

Farrer.

That is vtterly vntrue. I neuer deceiued king nor Queene, of one peny in my life, and you shall neuer be a∣ble to prooue that you say.

Winchest.

Thou art a false knaue.

Farrer.

Then Farrer stood vp vnbidden (for all that whyle he kneeled) and sayd: No my Lord, I am a true man, I thanke God for it. I was borne vnder King Henry the seuenth,* 3.7 I serued King Henry the eight, and K. Edward the sixt truely, and haue serued the Queenes Maiestie that now is, truely with my poore heart and word: more I could not do, and I was neuer false, nor shall be by the grace of God.

Winch.

How sayest thou, wilt thou be reformable?

Farrer.

* 3.8My L. if it like your honor, I haue made an othe to God and to K. Henry the 8. and also to K. Edward, and in that to the Queenes Maiestie, the which I can neuer breake while I liue, to dye for it.

Duresme.

You haue made another oth before.

Farrer.

No my Lord, I neuer made another oth before.

Duresme.

You made a vow.

Farrer.

That did I not.

Winch

You made a profession to lyue without a wyfe.

Farrer.

* 3.9No, my Lorde, if it lyke your honour, that did I neuer, I made a profession to lyue chaste, not without a wyfe.

Worcest.

You were sworne to him that was M. of your house.

Farrer.

That was I neuer.

Winchest.

Well, you are a froward knaue: we wil haue no more to do with you, seing that you will not come, we wil be short with you, & that you shall know within this se∣uennight.

Farrer.

* 3.10I am as it pleaseth your honour to call me, but I cannot breake my othe which your Lordship your selfe made before me, and gaue in example: the which confir∣med my conscience. Then I can neuer breake that othe whilest I lyue to dye for it.

Duresme.

Well, sayeth he, he standeth vpon his othe: call an other.

My L. Chauncellor then did ring a little bell, and M. Farrer said: I pray God saue the King & Queenes maie∣sties, long to cōtinue in honor to gods glory, & their com∣fortes, and the comfort of the whole Realme, and I pray God saue all your honors, and so he departed.

After these examinations thus ended, B. Farrer so re∣mayned in prison vncondemned, till the xiiij. day (as is a∣foresaid) of February, & then was sent down into Wales, there to receiue sentence of condemnation. Who then vpō the 26. of February, in the Church of Carmarthen, beyng brought by Griffith Leyson Esquire, shirife of the Coun∣tie of Carmarthen, was there personally presented before Henry Bish. of S. Dauids,* 3.11 and Constantine the publike Notarie: which Henry, there and then discharged the said Shiriffe, and receyued hym into his owne custodie, fur∣ther committing hym to the keping of Owen Iones, and thereupon declared vnto the sayd M. Farrer, the great mercy and clemency that the King and Queenes highnes pleasure was to be offered vnto him, which he there dyd offer vnto the sayd M. Farrer: that is to say, that if hee would submit himselfe to the lawes of this Realme, and conforme hymselfe to the vnitie of the vniuersall catholike church, he should be receiued and pardoned: and after that seeyng the sayd M. Farrer to geue no aunswer to the pre∣misses, the sayd B. ministred vnto hym these Articles fol∣lowyng.

¶Articles deuised against B. Farrer.

1 FIrst, whether he beleeueth the mariage of priests to be lawfull by the lawes of God & holy church, or no?

2 Item, whether he beleeueth,* 3.12 that in the blessed Sacra∣ment of the aultar, after the wordes of consecration duely pronounced by the priest, the very body & bloud of Christ is really and substantially conteined, without the substāce of bread and wyne.

Unto the which articles the said B. required the sayd M. Farrer to answer vpon his allegeance.* 3.13

To which he said, he would aunswer when he sawe a lawfull commission, and would make no further answer at that tyme. Whereupon the sayd B. taking no aduaun∣tage vpon the same aunswer, committed him to the sayde keeper, to be kept in prison vntill a new monition, and in the meane tyme to deliberate with himselfe for his further answer to the premisses.

¶Another examination of the Bish of S. Dauids, before Henry Morgan the pretensed Bishop of S. Dauids, George Constantine his Register, and others, the last of February. Ann. 1555.

THis day and place, Morgan the pretensed Byshop of S. Dauids, sittyng as Iudge,* 3.14 ministred vnto Bishop Farrer there personally present before hym certaine Arti∣cles and Interrogatories in writing, which beyng openly read and ministred vnto hym, the sayd B. Farrer refused to aunswere, vntill he might see his lawfull Commission and authoritie. Whereupon the foresayd pretensed Bishop of S. Dauids, did pronounce him as Contumax, and for the punishment of this his contumacie, to be counted Pro con∣fesso, and so did pronounce him in writyng: which beyng done, he committed the sayd Bish. to the custody of Owen Ihones, vntill Monday next, beyng the 4. day of March, then to be brought agayne into the same place, betweene one and two.

Another appearance of the said B. Farrer, before Morgan the pretensed Bishop of S. Dauids.

ITem, the day and place appointed,* 3.15 the said Bish. appea∣ring agayne before the pretensed B. humbly submittyng hymselfe as ready to aunswer to the articles and positions aboue mentioned, gently required the copy of the articles, and a competent terme to be assigned vnto hym to answer for hymselfe: which beyng graunted vnto hym, & Thurs∣day next beyng assigned vnto hym betweene one and thre, to answer precisely and fully, so he was committed againe to custody, as aboue.

Another appearance of the said Bishop.

ON Thursday as was appointed,* 3.16 which was the 7. of March, the said B. personally again appeared, where he exhibited a certaine bill in writing, conteinyng in it his answer vnto certaine articles obiected and ministred vnto him before. Then after Henry the pretensed B. of S. Da∣uids offred him agayne the sayd articles as before: the te∣nor wherof tended to this effect.

First, that he willed him beyng a priest,* 3.17 to abrenounce matrimony.

Secondly, to graunt the naturall presence of Christ in the sacrament, vnder the formes of bread and wyne.

Thirdly, that the Masse is a propitiatory sacrifice for the quicke and the dead.

Fourthly, that general Councels lawfully congrega∣ted, neuer did, nor can erre.

Fiftly, that men are not iustified before God by fayth only, but that hope and charity is also necessarily required to iustification.

Sixtly, that the catholike church which onely hath au∣thority to expound scriptures, and to define controuersies of religion, and to ordeine things appertaining to publike discipline, is visible, and like vnto a citie set vpon a moun∣tayne for all men to vnderstand.

To these articles thus obiected to hym,* 3.18 hee refused to subscribe, affirming that they were inuented and excogita∣ted by man, and pertaine nothing to the Catholike fayth. After this the Bish. abouenamed, deliuered vnto him the copy of the articles, assigning him Monday next follow∣yng, to aunswer and subscribe to the same, either affirma∣tiuely, or negatiuely.

Another appearance of Bish. Farrer.

VPon the which Monday, being the xj. day of March,* 3.19 he appearing agayne before the Bish. and the foresayd

Notary George Constantine, exhibited in a written pa∣per, his mynd & answer to the foresayd Articles, which the Bishop had twise now obiected agaynst hym before. To the which Articles and aunsweres, he dyd so subscribe, ad∣dyng these wordes, as tenens se de aequitate & iustitia esse E∣piscopum Meneuensem, that the Bishop assigned the next Wednesday in the fore noone, to heare his finall and defini∣tiue sentence.

¶The last appearance of Bishop Farrar.

THe which day and place the said B. and true seruaunt of God M. Farrer,* 3.20 personally there appearyng, was demanded of Henry the pretensed B. of S. Dauids, whe∣ther he would renounce and recant his heresies, schismes, and errours (as hee called them) which hitherto hee had mainteined, and if he would subscribe to the catholike ar∣ticles, otherwise then he had done before.

After this the sayd godly M. Farrer did exhibite a cer∣tayne schedule written in English, and remayning in the Actes, appealyng withall by expresse word of mouth from the Bishop,* 3.21 as from an incompetent Iudge, to Cardinall Poole, &c.

All which notwithstandyng, the sayd B. proceeding in hys rage, pronounced the definitiue sentence agaynst him, conteyned in writyng, and there left in the Actes: by the which sentence he pronounced hym as an heretike excom∣municate, & to be geuen vp forthwith to the secular pow∣er, namely to the Shiriffe of the towne of Carmarthen, M. Leyson. The tenour of which sentence, as well of hys condemnation, as of his degradation here followeth.

¶The sentence of condemnation agaynst Bishop Farrar.

IN Dei nomine. Amen. Nos Henricus permissione diuina Me∣neuen. episcopus iudicialiter, & pro tribunali sedentes, in quo∣dam inquisitionis & haereticae prauitatis, negotio, contra te Ro∣bertum Ferrar praesbyterum, coram nobis in iudicio personali∣ter comparentem, & nobis super haeretica prauitate traditum, ac fama, & notorietate facti delatum, ac in ea parte legitime proce∣dendo auditis, visis, & intellectis, rimatis, ac matura deliberatio∣ne discussis, & ponderatis dicti negotij meritis & circumstantijs, seruatisque in omnibus & per omnia in eodem negotio de iure seruandis, ac quomodolibet requisitis, Christi nomine inuocato, ac ipsum solum deum prae oculis nostris habentes: Quia per a∣cta inactitata, deducta, confessata & ex parte tua coram nobis in eodem negotio, saepius recognita, asserta, & confirmata, com∣perimus te, tum per confessiones tuas varias, tum per re∣cognitiones tuas iudiciales, coram nobis iudicialiter factas, eriores, haereses, & falsas opiniones subscriptas, iure diuino, ac Catholicae vniuersalis & Apostolicae ecclesiae determina∣tioni obuiantes, contrarias, & repugnantes tenuisse, credi∣disse, affirmasse, praedicasse, & dogmatizasse infra dioecesem nostram Meneuen. Viz. Quod licet cuicumque religioso etiam expresse professo & praesbytero post susceptam professionem, & post susceptum praesbyteratus ordinem, ducere vxorem, ac cum eadem tanquam cum vxore legitima conuersari. Item sacras re∣ligiones ab ecclesia catholica institutas cum scandalo damnasse, & reprobasse. Item, quod in Eucharistia, siue altaris sacramento vna cum corpore & sanguine Christi remanet substantia panis & vini. Item, quod Missa non est sacrificium noui testamēti, pro∣pitiatorium pro vinis atque defunctis. Et Sacramentum altaris non esse in altari ministrandum eleuandum, vel aliquo modo a∣dorandum. Item, quod homo sola fide iustificatur. Quos quidem errores, haereses, & falsas opiniones iure diuino ac Catholicae v∣niuersalis & Apostolicae ecclesiae determinationi obuiantes, &c.

¶Here followeth the copy of his degradation.

IN nomine patris, ✚ & filij, ✚ spiritus sancti, ✚ Amen. Quia nos Henricus permissione diuina Meneuen.* 3.22 episc. per viam in∣quisitionis in negotio hereticae prauitatis cognoscentes te Ro∣bertum Ferrar clericum propter tuam manifestam contumaciam & obstinatiam per nos nunciatum fuisse & esse in illud detesta∣bile crimen haeresis multipliciter incidisse & commisisse quod cum non solum grande, sed etiam damnabile & damnosum sit, & adeo enorme, quod exinde non tantum diuina maiestas offensa, sed & vniuersa dioecesis Mēeuensis cōmota est, & ab hoc indignus officio sacerdotali & ecclesiastico sis redditus. Idcirco nos auto∣ritate dei patris omnipotentis, & filij, & spirirus sancti, & nostra te ab omni huiusmodi officio sententialiter perpetuo priuamus in hijs scriptis, teque ab illis verbo deponimus realiter, & actua∣liter secundum traditionem Canonum deponendum, & degradā∣dum, prout in ordinario & ponti ficali contineturdegradamus, prout sequitur. In primus amouemus a te. &c.

Thus this godly bishop being condemned and disgra∣ded, was committed to the secular power:* 3.23 who not long after, was brought to the place of executiō in the towne of Carmarthen, where he in the market place in the South∣side

[illustration]

¶The cruell burnyng of Maister Farrar, Martyr.

* 3.24 of the market crosse, the xxx. day of March, beyng Sa∣terday next before Passion sonday, most constantly sustey∣ned the torments and passion of the fire.

Touchyng the which constancie of this blessed Mar∣tyr, this is moreouer to be added and noted:* 3.25 that one na∣med Richard Iones, a Knights sonne, comming to mai∣ster Farrar a little before his death, seemed to lament the paynefulnesse of the death he had to suffer. Unto whome the Bishop aunswered agayne to this effect, saying: that if he saw hym once to stirre in the paynes of his burnyng, he should then geue no credite to his doctrine. And as hee sayd, so he right well performed the same, for so paciently he stoode, that he neuer mooued, but euen as he stoode hol∣dyng vp his stumpes, so still he continued, till one Rich. Grauell with a staffe dashed hym vppon the head, and so stroke hym downe.

¶Letters.

As touching the letters of M. Farrer, we do not finde many that he did write. And peraduēture in Queene Ma∣ries tyme his imprisonment was so strait, that at no time it was permitted to hym to write. Albeit in his other trou¦bles in kyng Edwards tyme, certayne letters he wrote to the Archbishop of Canterbury Thomas Cranmer, and to the Erle of Warwike, which letters although they might be well referred to the first edition of this story, yet because in the sayd letters is conteyned briefly and in few lynes, the whole discourse of hys vniust vexation at that tyme wrought by his aduersaries, I thought good not to passe them ouer, but to communicate them vnto the Reader, for the better vnderstanding both of the innocencie of y^• bles∣sed B. and of the crafty iniquitie of his conspired enemies: as in the sayd letters here folowing to the indifferent rea∣der may easily appeare.

¶The copy of a certaine letter of the Bishop of S. Dauids, written belike to the L. Chancellor Doct. Goodrike Bishop of Ely.

MOst humbly sheweth vnto your honor, your poore orator Rob. Bish. of S. Dauids, that where as one Tho. Lee (by the procurement of Tho. Yong, Rowland Mericke beyng both Ca∣nons of S. Dauids, and George Constantine Register to the sayd bishop) hath exhibited vnto your honor agaynst him certaine ar∣ticles, in the which are mentioned many triflyng thyngs vnwor∣thy to be declared in your honourable audience, and also theyr pretensed weighty articles, (as they haue alledged there) are vt∣terly vntrue, for proofe whereof, the sayd Thomas Lee hath had

Commissions into the countrey: therfore it may please your ho∣nour of your fauourable goodnesse, to graunt vnto your said O∣ratour a like Commission for the examination of witnesses in de∣fence of his truth and honesty, against the aforenamed Thomas Lee, George Constantine, Tho. Yong, Rowland Mericke, and all other persons with their vniust articles, attestations, and sayings deposed agaynst hym. And in tender consideration that your said Orator standeth bounden and sureties with hym, in the summe of a thousand markes,* 3.26 to appeare before the kyngs Iustice in the Sessions at Carmarthen, in Iuly next commyng, to aunswer to a forged matter of Premunire, by the procurement and counsaile of his forenamed aduersaries malitiously surmised agaynst hym, to his vtter vndoyng: and furthermore, that your Orator beyng in debt to the kings maiesty, by reason of the malitious vexation of his foresayd aduersaries, cannot (if he remaine here) satisfie the same (for where as there be rerages to a great summe as well of the kyngs money, as of hys owne rentes, he can receyue none thereof, his aduersaries haue made such ill report, to his discre∣dite, bearyng the people in hand that he shall come no more thi∣ther, by reason of which bruite, neyther hys owne tenaunts will pay their rentes and rerages, nor the priests their rerages due to the Kings Maiestie, as well for anno secundo and tertio, as for quarto and quinto.) In consideration of all these thyngs, it may please your honourable goodnes to licence your sayd Oratour to depart into the Dioces for these affaires and other: & he shall be ready at all tymes at your honourable commaundement and pleasure to repaire againe, and euer to pray to the Lord Iesu for the perpetuall conseruation of your honor to his glory.

Besides this letter he wrote another likewise to y^e said Lord (who was, as seemeth, D. Goodricke L. Chancellor afore mentioned) wherein he declareth the whole cause of his trouble, how it rose against him by his aduersaries, as here followeth.

¶Another letter written by the B. of S. Dauids, to the L. Chancellor aforesayd.

RIght honourable, and my very especiall good Lorde, with humble seruice and hearty thankes to God,* 3.27 and to you for your godly fauour towardes me at all times, as right plainly appeareth by your fatherly letters, most lo∣uingly admonishing me to incline vnto that which is ve∣ry necessary, as charitable concord and vnity. This is fur∣ther to beseeche your Lordship for the Lordes sake, not to be grieued, but benignly to heare and grauely to ponder that weighty matter, which appearing to other but a light griefe, to me is in very deede a right grieuous offence to Godward, with no little hinderaunce of his holy worde, and disturbaunce of the Kings godly proceedyngs, and may be great occasion of much inobedience, and disorder of good lyfe.

Wherfore I am straitly bounden for the true zeale that I ought to beare vnto the word of lyfe, Christian religion the kings maiesties honor, and the godly quiet state of his people, not faintly to let fall the burthen of diligent redres to be sought at his maiesties hands by the godly wisdome of his most honourable and vpright Counsayle, but with hearty affection to beare it vp agaynst those high mynded, arrogant, stubborne, ambitious, couetous Canons, tru∣sting in their biting tongues, with crafty preuention and vtterly vntrue surmises, to stop the lyght, that theyr vn∣godly misdoyngs in darkenesse shal eyther not be seene, or at the least may haue a coulourable appearaunce of right. In so much that I do not a little meruayle at these quali∣ties in Maister Chaunter, the Canon and the Deane of Worcester, whose vngentle and vntrue behauiour I haue not onely knowen, but expertly prooued, and sensibly felte in two of the first, to my great losses, whereof I make no complaint.

* 3.28But I wonder in my mynde and lament in my heart, the strange alteration & wilfull goyng backward of myne old faithful brother George Constātine, the which know∣yng them all three to haue bene in tymes past, either obsti∣nate enemies to the true bearers of the crosse of Christ, or (at the least) priuy lurkers vnder pretence of fauour to∣wards the Gospell, to sting the poore followers therof, se∣king but their own lucre and pleasure in all their doings) would so earnestly cleaue vnto them in their wrong deeds as to betray me with his tong, become vntrue of his pro∣mise, and a bearer of filthy sinne for lucres sake, euen yet stifly persisting in the same, namely, in thyngs manifestly knowen vnto many, although he would deny it, and that I might not be credited.

And as for their Premunire, both George & they, at my first commyng,* 3.29 vngently deteinyng from M. Ferlee hys commission of the Chauncellorship, would haue faced me down with the Premunire, because it was written in myne owne name according to the statute: yet was I faine for the zeale of vnitie, not to see their vncurteous deedes, de∣parting with M. Ferlee, for the auoyding of theyr malice and enuy, and gaue that office for the amitie of George, vnto M. Chaunter his sonne in lawe,* 3.30 and to D. Mericke the office of Cardigan. But seeyng afterward theyr coue∣tous respect to their owne glory and lucre, not regardyng the reformatiō of sinne, and especially of shameles whore∣dome, I was compelled to remooue them,* 3.31 sore agaynst their wylles: and whereas I desired many and sundry tymes charitable redresse of their wrong doings in the va∣cation tyme, I obteyned many fayre wordes, and nothing in deede.

And desiring to haue sight of the booke of Statutes of the Church, for the knowledge of my duetie and theyrs,* 3.32 I could not obteine. Desiring to haue a key of the Chapter house seale, as my L. of Bath had, they would not deliuer it, but vpon conditions: yet was I contented to be bride∣led, receiuyng it as it pleased them to geue it. And further, requiring the sight of necessary euidences for the declarati∣on of diuers thyngs, in trauers of my right, they would in no wyse graunt it. And thereupon consideryng theyr vn∣gentlenesse, I mooued the Quo warranto, knowyng right well that if they should shew any substantiall graunt vn∣der the kings seale for their corporation, it must therin ap∣peare, the B. to be the head, and euer hath bene vnder the king: for other they neyther haue, nor had, except they would returne to Rome againe, as I trust they will not. And yet perceiuyng afterward, that they had no speciall graunt to shew, or els such as they would not shew, I my self for the respect of vnitie, wrote my letters to the Kyngs Attorney, by reason wherof the Quo warranto was stayed, and so yet remayneth.

But as touching the certificate, the kings subsidie be∣yng due at Michaelmas last, and forborne til after Christ∣mas, and lawfully demanded afore, they did vtterly refuse to pay, both to my Uice collector and to my selfe, except I would take it of them in portions, not knowyng where to aske the rest, and it is committed vnto me in the kings roll a whole summe in grosse, to be receyued of the Canons re∣sidentaries for their Diuident: who because they cannot agree in diuiding, would haue the kings maiesty to tary for his money, till they can agree to make diuision: and I connot demand it of any perticular person, nor at any per∣ticular place.

Wherfore I most humbly beseech your fatherly good∣nes for the Lordes sake, to persist and continue my good Lord and friend, vnto such time as ye finde me either desi∣ring to be defended in my wrōg, or not willyng to put the iudgemēt of my right cause into your hands. And because that the residue of matters touching them and their vngē∣tle, vntrue, and vngodly doyngs is too long, and I haue molested you too much with this my tedious letter, I shal now surcease: humbly beseeching your good Lordship to accept in good part this my boldnes proceding of necessity, and to pardon it for the loue of our Lord Iesu: who saue and keep you in helth, comfort, and honor, long to endure, for the aduauncement of his glory.

Written at Agurguily this ix. of March.

Your Lordships to command during lyfe. R. F.

Notes

• * 1.1

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of D. ••obert ••••rrar By∣••••op of S. 〈◊〉〈◊〉, & ••artyr.
• * 1.2

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 articles ••gaynst B. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in K. Edwardes ••yme, de••y∣••d 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Tho. Yong, Cō∣••••antine and ••ther his aduersaryes Tho. Yong ••onne in ••awe to Constan∣tine
• * 1.3

  D. Wotton and Syr Iohn Mason Commissioners for the hearing of the Bishops matter.
• * 1.4

  Proued by the statute.
• * 1.5

  Proued by the statute.
• * 1.6

  Act. ad duci possunt.
• * 3.1

  The seco•••• trouble o•• B. Farr•••• the tyme 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Q. Mary
• * 3.2

  The talle 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••R. Far•••••• ••efore th•• ••. of 〈…〉〈…〉.
• * 3.3

  B. Farrar 〈…〉〈…〉 the 〈…〉〈…〉.
• * 3.4

  B. 〈…〉〈…〉 Pope.
• * 3.5

  〈1 paragraph〉〈1 paragraph〉
• * 3.6

  〈1 paragraph〉〈1 paragraph〉
• * 3.7

  〈1 paragraph〉〈1 paragraph〉
• * 3.8

  〈1 paragraph〉〈1 paragraph〉
• * 3.9

  〈1 paragraph〉〈1 paragraph〉
• * 3.10

  〈1 paragraph〉〈1 paragraph〉
• * 3.11

  〈1 paragraph〉〈1 paragraph〉
• * 3.12

  Articles ob••ec∣ted agaynst B. Farrar.
• * 3.13

  The answere of B. Farrar.
• * 3.14

  An other exa∣mination of B. Farrar.
• * 3.15

  An other appea¦raunce of B. Farrar.
• * 3.16

  An other appea¦raunce of the sayd Bishop.
• * 3.17

  Articles agayne ministred a∣gainst B. Farrar.
• * 3.18

  B. Farrar deny∣eth to subscribe to the Articles.
• * 3.19

  An other ap∣pearaunce or examination of B. Farrar.
• * 3.20

  The last appea∣raunce and exa∣mination of the blessed bishop M. Farrar.
• * 3.21

  B. Farrar appea∣leth from the B. of S. Dauids to the Cardinall. Sentence pro∣nounced against B. Farrar.
• * 3.22

  The sentence of degradation a∣gainst B. Farrar.
• * 3.23

  B. Farrar brought the plac•• executio••
• * 3.24

  The Mar••tyrdome D. Robe•••• Farrar. B. and Mart•••• at Carm••••••then. An•••• 1555. Ma•••••• 32.
• * 3.25

  A mem••••••••ble exam••ple of co••••stancie in this bless•••• B. & Mar∣tyr.
• * 3.26

  ••. Farrar 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with 〈…〉〈…〉 to appeare in a ••atter of ••••emunire.
• * 3.27

  An other letter of B. Farrar to the Lord Chauncel∣lour.
• * 3.28

  The vnkind dealing of George Constan∣••••ne, against ••. Farrar.
• * 3.29

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 Ferlee 〈…〉〈…〉 to ••. Farrar.
• * 3.30

  This Chaunter was D. Yong.
• * 3.31

  D. Yong and D. Mericke remo∣ued by B. Farrar frō their offices.
• * 3.32

  The wronges which B. Farrar rece••ued by Thomas Yong and D. Mericke.