Purchas his pilgrimes. part 2 In fiue bookes. The first, contayning the voyages and peregrinations made by ancient kings, patriarkes, apostles, philosophers, and others, to and thorow the remoter parts of the knowne world: enquiries also of languages and religions, especially of the moderne diuersified professions of Christianitie. The second, a description of all the circum-nauigations of the globe. The third, nauigations and voyages of English-men, alongst the coasts of Africa ... The fourth, English voyages beyond the East Indies, to the ilands of Iapan, China, Cauchinchina, the Philippinæ with others ... The fifth, nauigations, voyages, traffiques, discoueries, of the English nation in the easterne parts of the world ... The first part.

§. IIII.

Of Indulgences.

THus haue we seene the Popes Temporalties, arising from Conspiracies against Empe∣rours, his Collations from the spoile of all Kings and Princes of their Inuestitures, in pretence of Simonie, to further intensions and extensions of Simonie; his Dis∣pensations, [ 10] Factors and Bawds for Compensations, by this Man of Sinne, which thus sinned and kept a Trade, Shop, Mart, Sale, and gaine of Sinne: but that which had least shew of reason, and yet was the right fore-legge of the beast, whereon he had surest standing, whereby he had securest holding his prey, wherewith he made strongest fights against his Ad∣uersaries, was Indulgences. And whereas the Riuer of the Popes Eden, is parted into foure heads, * 1.1 this first compasseth the whole Land of Hauila, where there is Gold, and the Gold of that Land is good. Of which the Author of the Historie of the Councell of Trent, relateth that this manner of gaining Money was put in practise, after Pope Vrban the second had giuen a plenarie Indulgence to all that should make war in the Holy Land; imitated by his Successors, some of which granted it to those that maintained a Souldiour, if they went not in person. And after, the same Indulgences or Pardons [ 20] were giuen, for taking Armes against those that obeyed not the Church of Rome, although they were Christians: and for the most part, infinite exactions were made vnder those pretences, all which, or the greater part were applied to other vses. Thus Pope Leo the tenth, 1517. sent an Indulgence thorow * 1.2 all Christendome, granting it to any which would giue Money and extending it to the dead; for whom his will was, that when the disbursement was made, they should be deliuered from the paines of Purga∣torie: giuing also power to eate Egges and Whitmeats on fasting daies, to chuse themselues a Confessor, and other such like abilities. And although the execution of this enterprise of Leo had some particu∣lar neither pious nor honest, notwithstanding many of the Grants made by the preceding Popes, had causes more vniust, and were exercised with more Auarice and Extortion. He distributed part of the Haruest before it was reaped or well sowne, giuing to diuers persons the Reuenues of diuers Prouinces, [ 30] and reseruing some also for his owne Exchequer. The Indulgences of Saxonie, and from thence to the Sea, be gaue to Magdalene his Sister, Wife vnto Francescheto Cibo, Bastard Sonne of Inno∣cent the eight; by reason of which marriage, this Leo was created Cardinall at the age of foureteene yeares. She to make the best of it, committed the care of preaching the Indulgences, and exacting the Money vnto Aremboldus, a Genoa Merchant, (now a Bishop and Merchant too) who found Mini∣sters like vnto himselfe, who aymed at nothing but game: which would not vse the Hermite Friers (as bad beene the custome of Saxonie in this case) but Dominicans, which to amplifie the value, spake many strange things; and in Tauernes, games, and other things not fit to bee named, spent that which the people spared from their necessarie expences, to purchase the Indulgences. [ 40]

By this meanes Martin Luther an Hermite Frier, first began to speake, first against these new abu∣ses; * 1.3 and after being prouoked by the Pardoners, he set himselfe to studie this matter, being desirous to see the rootes and foundations of the Doctrine of Indulgences. He published ninetie fiue Conclusions herein, to be disputed on in Wittenberg, which none accepted: but Iohn Thecel proposed others con∣trarie in Frankfort of Brandeberg. Luther proceeded to write in defence of his, and Iohn Ecchius to oppose; and these Writings being gone to Rome, Syluester Prierias, a Dominican Frier, wrote against Luther: which contestation inforced both the one and the other partie to passe to other things of grea∣ter importance. For the Doctrine of Indulgences hauing not beene well examined in former Ages, the essence and causes of them were not well vnderstood. Some thought they were nothing but an absolution made by Authoritie of the Prelate from Penance, which the Church in most ancient times imposed * 1.4 by way of Discipline vpon the penitent, (which Imposition was assumed in succeeding Ages by the Bi∣shop [ 50] onely, after delegated to the Penitentiarie Priest, and in conclusion left wholly to the will of the Con∣fessor) and that they deliuered vs not from paying the debt due to the Iustice of God. Others thought, that they freed from both. But these were diuided: some thinking that they freed vs, though nothing were giuen in recompence, others said, that by reason of mutuall participation in charitie of the mem∣bers * 1.5 of holy Church the Penance of one might bee communicated to another, and free him by this Compensation. But because it seemed that this was more proper to men of holy and austere life then to the authoritie of Prelates, there arose a third opinion, which made them in part an absolution, (because authoritie was necessary for them) and in part a Compensation. But because the Prelats liued not in such sort as they could spare much of their Merits to others, there was made a treasurie in the Church, full of the Merits of all those who had more then would serue their owne turne: the dispensation where∣of [ 60] is committed to the Pope, who when he giueth Indulgences, recompenseth the debt of the Sinner, by assigning so much in value out of the Treasure. It being opposed that the Merits of Saints being finite, this treasure might be diminished; they added the Merits of Christ which are infinite: which caused

another doubt, what needed those drops to this Ocean; which gaue cause to some to make the Treasure to be onely of the Merits of Christ.

These things then so vncertaine, and had no other foundation then the Bull of Clement the sixt, made for the Iubilee, 1350. Wherefore Thecel, Echius, and Prierius, laid for their ground-worke the Popes Authoritie, and Consent of the Schoolemen, concluding that the Pope not being able to erre in matters of Faith, and himselfe publishing the Indulgence, it was necessarie to beleeue them as an Article of Faith. This made Martin to passe from Indulgences to the Popes Authoritie, &c.

After Leos death, Adrian succeeded, who being a Deuine, had written in that matter, and thought to establish his Doctrine by Apostolicall Decree, that is, that an Indulgence being granted to one which * 1.6 shall doe such a Worke, the Worker obtaineth so much of it as is proportionable to his Worke; thinking [ 10] Luthers obiection thus answered, (How a peny could gaine so great Treasure) and yet Indulgences remaining in request, seeing he that hath not all, hath his proportionable part. But Cardinall Caietan told him it was better to keepe this secret, lest the Popes grant might seeme to profit nothing, that In∣dulgences * 1.7 are but absolutions from Penance imposed in confession onely: and if he would restore the disused penitentiarie Canons, men would gladly seeke Indulgences. This being proposed in the Peniten∣tiary Court, Cardinall Puccio, Datarie to Pope Leo, a diligent Minister to finde out Money, (which had counsailed Leo to those Indulgences, and was now cheefe Penitentiarie) related to the Pope with a generall assent the impossibilitie; that those Canonicall Penances were gone into disvse, because they could be no longer supported for want of the ancient zeale, whereas now euery one would be a Iudge and examine the reasons; and in stead of curing they would kill. At length the Cardinall of Volterra propo∣sed [ 20] the way to extinguish Heresies, to bee not by Reformations, but by Crusados, (as is said before.) And in the Councell of Trent, when Indulgences came to bee examined, the Bishop of Modena told them they would finde it difficult, and to require a long time, it being impossible to make that matter * 1.8 Plaine, but by determining first whether they be Absolutions, or compensations onely and suffrages; or whether they remit the penalties imposed by the Confessors onely, or all that are due; whether the trea∣sure be of the Merits of Christ onely, or of the Saints also; whether they extend to the dead, or though the receiuer performe nothing; with other difficulties. But to determine that the Church may grant them, and that they are profitable to those which worthily receiue them, needed no great disputation, and a Decree might be composed without defficultie: and hee with other Frier Bishops was deputed to make a Decree in this sense, adding a prouision against the abuses. [ 30]

Thus farre haue we gleaned out of that fertile Corne-field. As for that of Clements Iubilee Indulgence, it is not amisse to recite some part, in which euery Pilgrime to Rome hath power * 1.9 granted, to chuse his Confessor or Confessors, to whom hee giues full power to absolue all Papall cases, as if the Pope himselfe were personally present: and if he dies in the way being truly confessed, that he be quite free, and absolued from all his sinnes: and moreouer, wee command the Angels of Paradise that they carrie the soule into the glory of Paradise, being fully absolued from Purgatorie. Theodorike a Niem speaking of Boniface the ninth his Indulgences, saith that his pardoners got in some one Prouince by sale of them, one hundred thousand Florens, releasing all sinnes to such * 1.10 as were confessed, euen without Penance, Dispensing for Money with irrigularities, &c. Yea, some Pardoners descended sometime (saith Gascoigne) to take for them a supper, a nights-lod∣ging, [ 40] a draught of Wine or Beere, a game at Tennis, and sometime a venereall Act. Pope Alex∣ander the sixt gaue thirtie thousand yeares Indulgence, for the saying of a certaine Prayer to Saint Anne. And Iulius his warring Successor gaue large Indulgences to euery man which should kill a French-man, with whom he had Warres. Others to Stations, Rosaries, Crosses, Churches, Images, Graines, Pilgrimages, Prayers, throwing Wood into the Fire to burne Heretickes, and other like parts of Faith and Charitie. But let vs come to the Originall of this sinke.

Some ascribe their beginning to Pope Iohn, about the yeare 880. which yet is but giuing his * 1.11 opinion of them that die in Warre against Infidels, not an Indulgence to any. Petrus Damanus tels of Monks, redeeming Penances with Psalmodies, and selfe-whippings, redeeming a yeares * 1.12 penance with a thousand stripes, and fiue thousand stripes with once singing the whole Psal∣ter, [ 50] with other voluntarily imposed taskes. Sigonius tels of Pope Alexander, about the same time, Anno 1071. consecrating the Church of Cassinum, and giuing great Indulgences to all present; which brought thither most Italian Princes and Bishops, and Agnes the Empresse. Some tell of Gregorie the first, in the time of publike Pestilence, enioyning a publike kind of Penance, the Letanies, and Stations or visiting on set daies certaine Churches, with prayers * 1.13 for deliuerance, and remission to be giuen by the Priests, to such as penitently confessed their sinnes. These Stations gaue occasion to Boniface the eight, of proclaiming his Iubilee euery se∣cular * 1.14 yeare in imitation of the Secular games, which Clement reduced to fiftie, and Sixtus Quar∣tus to fiue and twentie. These Iubilees begunne in Anno 1300. haue Indulgence generation, [ 60] Iewish and Ethnicke imitation, which the other haue little Commerce with, as being void of Commerce. Bishop Fisher of Rochester writing against Luther, doth more fitly make Indul∣gence, * 1.15 a Daughter of Purgatorie Family: Quamdiu enim (saith he) nulla fuerat de Purgatorio cura, nemo quaesiuit Indulgentias. Nam ex illo pendet omnis Indulgentiam existimatio. Si tollas Purgatorium, quorsum Indulgentijs opus erit? Caperunt igitur Indulgentiae postquam ad Purgatorij

cruciatus aliquandiu trepidatum est. And indeed Purgatorie hath beene the gainefullest fire to the Pope, and as a painefull-gaine-foole Mother, might well procreate this Daughter: both issuing from conceit, that temporall punishment remaineth to be satisfied, after the fault of sinne re∣mitted. Therefore haue they inuented that Treasurie of the Merits of Christ and the Saints to bee this way employed, a name fitting the nature, being the best Treasurie, (for externall Treasures) which euer the Pope had; in warre to pay Souldiers, warring in his cause, at their owne costs, in peace to fill his Coffers. But let vs looke to a purer generation, whereof this is the corruption and degeneration.

When as in the first times of the Church, onely feare of God and Ecclesiasticall Discipline held men in awe, the Magistrates being Ethnicke; seuere Canons, and sincere Zeale held things [ 10] in order. And if men transgressed, yet either for intension of their superabundant sorrow, or for encouragement and prouocation to Martyrdome, or in danger of death relaxation was made and Indulgence; the Church receiuing some satisfaction for the externall scandall, and belee∣uing that God for the merit of his Sonne, and propense mercy was satisfied also in that sa∣crifice of a contrite heart and broken spirit; God graciously accepting that Care, feare, clea∣ring * 1.16 of ones selfe, zeale, indignation, desire, and reuenge, (the affects and effects of true repen∣tance) and the Church imitating the mercy of the heauenly Father; as wee see in the incestu∣ous Corinthian. This satisfaction did not by merit redeeme, but in Faith and Penauce appease him, being reconciled in his Sonne; for he sheweth Mercy (not Merit) to thousands in them * 1.17 that loue him and keepe his Commandements: he turning to them when they turne to him. Indulgences [ 20] and Dispensations were adulterously commixed to destruction of this both publike and pri∣uate Penance, when men were taught in stead of a Contrite heart, to giue a contrite purse; and in stead of satisfying God, (to vse that word) that is, appeasing and meeting him by repen∣tance, doing what he exacts and expects; or satisfying the Church in her Sanctions, by exter∣nall humiliation, testifying internall humilitie and conuersation; to put ouer all to a Iubilee and Plenarie Indulgence. Which if they bee good, why doth not the Popes Charitie freely giue what he freely receiued? What greater Simonie then sale of Merits, the chiefe graces of the holy Ghost; yea, of Christs owne Merits? And what shall become of this Treasurie after the last day?

Let Bellarmine and Valentianus alledge the communion of Saints, and other Scriptures of see∣ming supererogation, as Col. 1. 24. and the power of the Keyes, yet doth Ualentia confesse their * 1.18 [ 30] nouitie, whence followes their inualencie and vanitie. Once; their Money-valencie and Man∣valency, was not begun before by Gregorie the seuenth against the Emperor, as is said, and by Vr∣ban heere applied to the Holy Land Warre. Yea, these of Vrban did but giue occasion to the af∣ter Popes, to make them so strong pillars of the Babylonicall Tower, the Indulgences being then but Calues, which after grew to be Bulls, as appeareth by the various reports of this his Speach, and Act in the Councell of Claremont. I haue read seuen or eight seuerall Orations, written most of them by men of that time, and some professing themselues present, which yet haue made it the triall of their wits, what they could, or else haue added what Vrban at diuers times, did say or write, or other Popes after him: the later composing themselues to their own times, when Indulgences were common and current. You haue heard Robertus and Fulcherius * 1.19 [ 40] already. Baldricus the Arch-bishop being present, deliuers that part of his speech, which looks this way in these words: Confessis peccatorum suorum ignorantiam, securi de Christo coelestem pasciscimini veniam. Guibertus, perorauerat vero excellentiss. omnes qui se ituros vouerant, (in his long Oration I find nothing to this purpose) Beati Petri potestate absoluit, eadem ipsa authoritate A∣postolica firmauit, &c. Malmesbury had it of those which heard it in this sense, Ituri habentes per * 1.20 Des concessum & beati Petri priuilegium omnium absolutionem criminum, & hac interim laetitia laborem itineris alleutant, habituri post obitum foelicis martyrij commercium. Vitriacus Bishop of Acon, Omnibus in remissionem omnium peccatorum peregrinationem iniungens. William Archbishop of Tyre thus, Nos autem de misericordia Domini & Beatorum Petri & Pauli authoritate confisi fidelibus Christianis qui contra eos arma susceperint, & onus sibi huius peregrinationis assumserint, iniunctas sibi pro suis delictis [ 50] poenitentias relaxamus. Qui autem ibi in vera poenitentia decesserint, & peccatorum indulgent••m & fru∣ctum aeternae mercedis se non dubitent habituros. M. Paris after them, & more fitted to Indulgences, Nos autem de Omnipotentis Dei maxime & BB. App. eius Petri & Pauli authoritate confisi, ex illa quam nobis (licet indignis) Deus ligandi at{que} soluendi contulit potestatem, omnibus qui laborem istum in proprijs personis subierint & expensis, plenam suorum peccatorum, si veraciter fuer int corde contriti & ore confessi, veniam indulgemus, & in retributione i••storum salutis aeternae poll cemur augmentum. Thus the later, perhaps from some later Popes, * 1.21 which after Vrban had broken the Ice gaue further Indulgence to the spirit of Indulgences, til (like the Frog in the fable) they cracked themselues in sunder with swelling. Some you see mention only the merit of the worke, some adde the power of the Keyes in loosing, or absoluing from sinne in the Conscience, others absolution from enioy∣ned [ 60] penances (by the Confessor) the last to a plenary Indulgence, yet at most but an absolution and that from penall Canons, as it were by commutation of penance, in stead of that imposed by the Ghostly Father, or Canonicall sentence of the Prelate, vndertaking in person, or by purse in maintenance of another this peregrination. Vpon this timber they soone after built hay and stubble, which hath by Luthers kindling set Rome on fire.

In following times, this Expedition and Indulgences thereof, were followed by the opinions of satisfying God for former sinnes or imputations (as in Henry the Second for Beckets * 1.22 murther) to be expiated by this Warre. Secondly, of freeing of others soules hereby out of Pur∣gatory. Thirdly, of freedome from Oathes, as is before mentioned out of the Councell of Lions. Fourthly, of Immunity of persons and goods, as of Priests to be absent, and yet taking the pro∣fits of their Liuings for three yeares present, and to be free from payments; Laymen freed from Collections, Taxations and other publike grieuances. Fiftly, against priuate Sutes, their per∣sons and goods after the Crosse receiued, to be vnder Saint Peters and the Popes protection and the defence of the Church, by speciall Protectors appointed, that till their returne or death cer∣tainly knowne, none might meddle with them vnder paine of Excommunication (a good pro∣uiso [ 01] for Bank-rupts.) Sixtly, the proportion of this Indulgence to the proportion of ayde or counsell (concilium vel auxilium) or money that way employed. Seuenthly, the Suffrage and Prayers of the Synod, that this Iourney might profit worthily to their saluation. Eightly, power for all whomsoeuer but Regulars to goe, though vnfit; redeeming, changing, or deferring it by the Popes grant. Likewise, they increased sinne by this meanes, Murtherers, Theeues, Adulterers, Bank-rupts, and others hauing the Holy Land for refuge against Law, and for safety of them and theirs, yea, for Merit and Indulgence; that becomming hereby the very sinke of sinne, confluence of all villaine, the heart and centre of abomination: as appeares in Vitriacus and others.

And as morally, so also doctrinally, Purgatorie, Merit, Supererogation, Superstitious Pilgri∣mages, * 1.23 [ 20] and the like, tooke further rooting by these Holy Land Expeditions; but especially the Popes power hereby increased in and ouer Kings and Kingdomes, thus intermedling, peruerting and preuenting courses of Iustice by his Indulgence-Buls horned with Excommunication: by imposing this Expedition on Kings as Penance: by exhausting their Treasures, Souldiers and Forces, by busying them farre off, whiles he and his might take and make oportunitie to adul∣terate all at home: by pushing with these hornes of Indulgences against Kings themselues; with∣out * 1.24 other force, employing the forces of one Prince against another, and of their owne subiects against their Souereignes. So was King Iohn forced to surrender his Crowne, and take it of the Pope in farme, the French and his owne being armed against him: so Conrade, Memfred, Ladis∣laus, and other Kings of Sicil; George, King of Bohemia, &c. By this was the Imperiall Eagle [ 30] plucked and stripped, greater Indulgences being giuen, that more money might bee gathered to maintayne with Holy Land money, his warre against Fredericke the Emperour; sending simple Messengers with Legatine power, which by Commanding, Minacing, Excommunicating, Preaching, * 1.25 Praying, besides, his white white Bull, which might mooue stony hearts (melting out their me∣tall) as to succour the Holy Land, indeed, to ruinate the Emperour. For which cause he had pro∣cured a Tenth, of Clergy and Laity in many Kingdomes; * 1.26 and that with strict Inquisition of the value to the Popes best commodite, euen of the fruits before the Haruest, present pay to bee made vnder paine of Interditing and Excommunicating: which made the Prelates sell their Chalices and Church goods, that I mention not the vsurers his Chaplen, and Agent Stephen had to byte, flay and deuoure the flocke with further exactions. This was Gregorie the Compiler [ 40] of the Decretals. These moneyes the Pope gaue to Iohn de Bresnes, to warre against the Empe∣rour then in the Holy Land, and forced thither by the Popes Excommunication. He extorted al∣so a fifth of beneficed Forreiners for that purpose, & absolued his Subiects from their Allegeance. And when some expostulated with the King of England, for suffering his Kingdome to be made a prey, He answered, I neyther will nor dare contradict the Lord Pope in any thing: so that hee ob∣tayned * 1.27 a fifth in England: and after that, sent Peter Rubeus to new vn-heard of execrable ex∣actions by lyes and cauilations. What shall I tell * 1.28 of Rustandus, which was sent to gather new Tenths, and to exchange the Kings Vow for the Holy Land, into a Sicilian Expedition a∣gainst Memfrede, with equall Indulgences? Yea, greater Indulgences are granted to such as would warre against Christians, if the Popes Enemies, as before you haue read, then in the Holy [ 50] Land against the Turkes.

Contrary to Indulgences are Interdictments, as Samsons Foxes hauing a fierie coniunction * 1.29 in their tayles: of which Hildebrand is noted first Author; by which, if a Prince offended, his Subiects and whole Dominions were Interdicted, that is in Papall Interpretation, a publike Excommunication was denounced against him and his, and all externall publike Holies suspen∣ded. You shall haue it in Mat. Paris his words of King Iohn, who being offended that the Pope had reiected from the Archbishopricke of Canterburie, the Bishop of Norwich, whom the grea∣ter and sounder part of the Monkes in due solemnity, by the Kings consent had chosen, obtru∣ding one of his Cardinals Stephen Langton vpon him, whom he refused: the Pope caused the Bi∣shop [ 60] of Ely and Worcester, to denounce his Interdict, which was also contrary to Papall Priui∣ledges obserued. There ceased therefore in England all Ecclesiasticall Sacraments (except confession, and housell in danger of death, and Baptisme of children.) The bodies of the dead we〈…〉〈…〉 carried out of * 1.30 Cities and Villages, and buried likes Dogges in by-wayes, and Ditches without Prayers and Ministerie of the Priests: whereupon diuers Bishops forsooke his Land and such combustions followed, that

the Pope excommunicated him (which was denounced by the former Bishops) after which hee absolued his Subiects from their Alleageance, and prohibited them in paine of Excommunica∣tion to auoyd his table, counsell, conference. All which yet were of no great force till the dis∣mall sentence of deposition, nor that but by Indulgences and Crusados.

For the Pope writ to the French King Philip to vndertake the execution, for the remission of all his sinnes; and expelling the King of England, to hold the Kingdome of England to him and his Suc∣cessors for euer. He wrote also to all great men, Knights and Warriours in diuers Nations, that they should signe themselues with the Crosse for the deiection of the King of England, following the French King in this Expedition, labouring to reuenge the quarrell of the vniuersall Church. Hee ordained also that whosoeuer should bestow his goods, or helpe to expugnate that obstinate King, they should remayne se∣cure [ 10] in the peace of the Church (euen as they which visit the Sepulchre of our Lord) in their goods and persons and suffrages of soules, (or deliuerance of soules out of Purgatory.)

The issue whereof was, that great prouisions were made on both sides, King Iohn hauing at Barhamdowne, threescore thousand armed men, besides, a strong Nauy at Sea: the French on the otherside was come to the Sea with his owne and the English, an innumerable Army, when Pan∣dulfus the Popes Legate craftily sent to him to satisfie the Pope, which he could no way doe but by resigning his Crowne and Kingdome, to receiue it againe in fee farme of the Pope, doing him homage, and paying him rent: which when the King had granted, Pandulfus sought to perswade the French party to peace, and the English to returne. The French hereupon stormed, inuaded the Earle of Flanders, King Iohns Confederate, who now with his forces succored him with fiue [ 20] hundred ships, which tooke three hundred French shippes richly prouided, and burned one hun∣dred * 1.31 others: the French being crossed in a double sense, not without great effusion of Christian bloud: the Pope ayming at his owne designed greatnesse, to vse the French against the English, and the Subiects against their Prince; as afterward taking the Kings part against his Subiects, and excommunicating the French, that as in the Fable, he might play with both, and pray on both; spending themselues in mutuall emulations.

Yet would not his Subiects obey him, prouiding great forces to inuade France, till the Sen∣tence were released: whereupon he entertayned Stephen, and the other Bishops falling at their feet with teares, desiring them to haue mercy on him, and the Kingdome of England, who * 1.32 thereupon absolued him, swearing to the conditions propounded: his Designes against France, [ 30] through that delay prooued frustrate notwithstanding. In the Pope and his Bishops, he found so little certainty that he sent Embassadors to the King of Morocco, offering vassallage to him, if he would protect him; which being refused, knowing (saith the Author) that the Pope was aboue all mortall men ambitious and proud, and an insatiable thirster after money, and waxen, and prone to all * 1.33 villanies, for bribes or promises, he sent him Treasure, and promises of more, and alway to bee his Subiect, if hee would confound the Archbishop, and excommunicate the Barons whose parts he had before taken; that he might so imprison, disherit and slay them. Innocent was con∣tented to be thus nocent, and released the Interdict, which had continued sixe yeares, three monethes and fourteene dayes, to the irreparable losse of the Church in Temporals and Spiritu∣als. The Pope taking part now with the King, hee had opportunitie to reuenge himselfe of his [ 40] Peeres, who hereupon raysed Ciuill Warres, and sware themselues to the French Kings Sonne, England remayning thus on fire, till the death of King Iohn, (which hapned amidst these flames) to the terrour of his Successors in so daring attempts against the Pope.

And thus you see what Crusadoes and Indulgences could doe in those dayes, in and ouer this * 1.34 Kingdome: Interdicts can intend and pretend nothing, but raysing Disscontents and Rebellions, as if God should impiously be depriued of his worship, and men vncharitably of the meanes of their saluation, for one mans fault, if a fault, if not the Popes only fault as well as tyrannicall punishment. For Gods Law forbids the fathers eating sower Grapes to set the childrens teeth on edge, * 1.35 and the sonne to beare the fathers fault, but the soule that sinneth shall dye: which the Venetian lately vnderstood, and nobly vindicated against the Pope, as King Iohn would haue done, if the times had beene answerable. But Indulgences you see heere, were the Executors and Executioners of [ 50] the Popes fury, euen to the subiection of the most vnwilling Kings and Kingdomes, which is the Master-piece of Popery in the getting. And for the keeping and mayntayning this Mo∣narchie, Crusadoes and Indulgences stayd not heere, but by the same Innocent (the first Decreer also of Transubstantiation) was extended against the Albigenses, or Waldenses, then reputed Heretikes, (as wee now are by the Papists) and condemned for those Do∣ctrines, which they had learned out of the Scriptures against the Papall Pride and Super∣stition. Other things are ascribed to them, as now to vs by the Iesuits, with like Truth and Charity, as out of their owne Authors which best knew, is euident. As Vrbans intent had beene against the Antipope, which his Successors after followed, so Innocent and other Popes disposed [ 60] the Crosse and Indulgence against those which mayntayned the Truth of the Gospell, and in all * 1.36 likelihood had but for this opposition, ruined the Papacie. He sent Preachers (sayth Matthew Paris in whose steps we still insist) vnto all the Regions of the West, and enioyned Princes, and other Christian people for remission of their sinnes, that they should signe themselues with the Crosse to root out

this pestilence, and opposing themselues to such mischiefes, by force and armes should defend the Christian people. He added also by authoritie of the Sea Apostolike, that whosoeuer to expugnate them, shall vnder∣take the enioyned labour, should remayne secure aswell in their goods as persons from all incursions of ene∣mies. At this preaching, so great a multitude of men which tooke the Crosse assembled, as is not belee∣ued at any time to haue met together in our Climate. But wee will learne this businesse of others which better knew it.

Poplinerius saith, the Waldenses against the will of all Christian Princes (so did the Apostles * 1.37 against the will of Ethnike Princes, (and Princes called Christians, were now made drunke with the Whores cup) sowed their Doctrine, little differing from that which the Protestants now em∣brace, not only thorow all France, but almost all the Coasts of Europe. For the French, Spaniards, [ 01] English, Scots, Italians, Germanes, Bohemians, Saxons, Polonians, Lithunians, and other Nations, haue stiffely defended it to this day. One of Innocents Decrees in the Councell of Lateran, which also decreed Transubstantion, is, that if a Temporall Lord being required and warned by * 1.38 the Church, shall neglect to purge his Countrey from hereticall filthinesse, the Bishops shall ex∣communicate him: if he continue so a yeare, let it be signified to the Pope, that he may free his vassals from their alleageance, and expose his Land to bee occupyed of Catholikes, which may posesse it without contradiction, the Heretikes being rooted out, &c.

Indulgences were preached in this sort, the Text, Psal. 94. 16. Who will rise vp for mee against the euill doers, &c. or the like applyed to the people: You see beloued, how great the malice of He∣retikes * 1.39 is, &c. Therefore the holy Mother Church, though vnwilling, calleth against them a Christian [ 20] Armie. Whosoeuer therefore hath the zeale of the faith, whosoeuer is touched with the honour of God; whosoeuer will haue this great Indulgence, let him come and take the signe of the Crosse, and ioyne him∣selfe to the Christian Souldierie. Some thinke that the Crouched Order of Crucigeri, was then confirmed by this Innocent; many Crossed, and going to or returning from Syria, winning the Popes fauour by their Exploits against the Albigenses. I might adde the Orders of Militarie Knights, as Templars, Hospitulars, and others which hence had their originall, and were so po∣tent in wealth and numbers, that they could beard Kings, and had their dependance and priui∣ledges of the Pope.

Dominicke Author of the Dominicans, preached to conuert with the word, and had helpers with the Sword, to expugnate those which his word could not. These were called, Fratres de [ 30] * 1.40 militia B. Dominici, and they and their wiues were a certaine guilde, called the Brethren and Sisters of Penance of Saint Dominicke. Likewise, the Office of the Inquisition was instituted by this Innocent, charging the Bishops in remission of their sinnes, to receiue his Commissaries, and to as∣sist them against Heretikes, drawing forth the Spirituall Sword against those which were by the Inqui∣sitors named; and let the Laymen confiscate their goods, and cast them out of their possessions. And who∣soeuer should deuoutly assist them, we grant that Indulgence of their sinnes which we grant to those which visit the staires of Saint Peter, or Saint Iames. This he wrote in behalfe of Raiuer and Guido. But after this Inquisition was delegated to Dominicke, for the Countries of Prouence, who raysed this Dominican Order, (ordure) whose chiefe care should be against Heretikes: he somewhat verified the Popes Dreame, seeming to stay the Church of Laterane, beeing readie to fall, which the [ 40] Franciscans apply to Saint Francis. And indeed, had not these in this Age vpheld the Lateran Ba∣bylon, together with the Schoolemen, a 1.41 the best of which were Friars, and the Canonists; it is likely the Albigenses, Waldenses, Pooremen of Lions, Inzabbatati, (other names they giue them) had then ruined it, they then with like Arts, Dispensations, and Reputation doing that, which since Luther and Caluine the Iesuites haue laboured.

The new Locusts * 1.42 supplanted the former Clergie, exercised Penances, Vnctions, Baptismes, and be∣gan two Fraternities, wherein they receiued men and women so generally, that scarsly any were free: the people being vnwilling to heare others preach; that the Priests were defrauded of their Tithes, and had not to liue: the Churches now retayning nothing but a Bell, and old dustie Image. The Friers began at Cotta∣ges, and now haue Kings Houses and Palaces erected, and hauing no riches are richer then all rich men, [ 50] whiles we begge, &c. These became acute Schoolemen, Sententraries, Questionists, Summists, Quodlibetists, and I know not what irrefragable, subtle, Angelical Doctors and Disputants, bring∣ing in Oppesitions of Science falsly called, languishing about Questions and strifes of words: these made * 1.43 Diuinitie a Linsey wolsey garment; not as their Master of Sentences, of Fathers and Scrip∣tures; but admitted Aristotle free of the Diuinitie Schooles, and ploughed with an Oxe and an Asse, their Miscelan fields.

These Dominicans and Franciscans were appointed also, Inquisitores hereticae prauitatis, and made many bloudy Sacrifices, for their vnbloudy Sacrifice, and other Popish Heresies in pretence of Heretical prauitie: growing into such numbers, that Sabellisus numbred of Dominicans, one and [ 60] * 1.44 twenty Prouinces; twentie foure thousand, one hundred forty three Couents, and in them Fry∣ars entred, fifteene hundred Masters or Doctors of Diuinitie, in all twenty sixe thousand, foure hundred and sixtie. Of Franciscans, forty Prouinces deuided into Warden-ships, Couents, and Places; the persons innumerable, coniectured threescore thousand. Yea, the Generall promised to Pope Pius of bodies able to serue in his intended war against the Turke, thirty thou∣sand

Franciscans, thirtie thousand Augustine Friars, the Carmelites more, and other Orders I mention not, nor can I number these Locusts.

Matth. Paris inveigheth often against the insolencie of these Friars and their Papall priui∣ledges, * 1.45 odious to the Monkes and Secular Clergie. They were (saith he) Counsellors and Messen∣gers of great men, Secretaries of our Lord the Pope, getting hereby Secular fauour: quarrelling about * 1.46 prioritie of Order, that in three or foure hundred yeeres the Monkes had not so degenerated, as these within foure and twentie yeeres after their first Mansions in England, whose buildings now grow Roy∣all Palaces. They wait on rich men dying, extort Confessions and secret Testaments, commending themselues and their owne Order alone, sollicitous to get Priuiledges; in the Courts of Kings and great men, Counsellors, Chamberlans, Treasurers, makers of Marriages, Executors of Papall exactions; in [ 10] their Preachings bitter or flattering, Reuealers of Confessions, Contemners of other Orders, accounting the Cistercians Semi-laikes and Rustikes, the blacke Monkes proud and Epicures, seeking to be enter∣tayned * 1.47 as Legats or Angels of God in their preaching. And if a man were confessed of his owne Priest, what say they, of that Idiot, ignorant of Theologie, the Decrees, Questions? they are blind Leaders of the blind: come to Vs, we know to distinguish leprie from leprie, know hard, difficult things and the secrets of God: whereupon Noble-men and Ladies entertayned them, contemning their owne Priests and Prelates. And to returne to Indulgences, These were the Popes Publicans, preaching the receiuing of the Crosse * 1.48 (giuing notice of such preaching before-hand, and entertayned by the Clergie in Vestments with Ban∣ners and Procession) to all Ages, Sexes, Conditions, to the Sicke and Aged, the next day for money ab∣soluing them from their vowed Pilgrimage. But I am wearie of this stinking sinke of hypocrisie, [ 20] which for the World denyed the World, the Flesh for the Flesh, and obeyed to such enor∣mous rebellions.

Yet let vs examine the Indulgences against the Waldenses, in the yeere 1208. innumerable multitudes receiued the Crosse in their brests; the Pope writ to King Philip and all his Princes, to inuade Narbone, Tholouse, and other parts. The next yeere, from all parts of France, Flan∣ders, * 1.49 Normandie, Aquitane, Burgundie, the Bishops, Earles, and Barons, with an infinite num∣ber, met at Lions and came to Byterrae, where they slue sixtie thousand, promiscuously Papists and Waldenses, by aduise of the Popes Legat, who said, The Lord knoweth who are his: some say an hundred thousand, not sparing Sexe or Age, burning the dead bodies. Thence they went to Carcasson, where they spared onely the mens liues, not leauing them their apparell. Simon Mont∣fort, Earle of Leicester, was made Generall, who tooke Roger the Lord of the Countrey, and all [ 30] the Countrey with an hundred Castles, and many others rendred themselues. In the yeer 1210. was a new Expeditihn of these crossed Votaries out of France, England, and Loraine, which tooke Minerbia, where an hundred and fourescore chose rather to burne then turne: entred To∣louse, wasting all, taking Cities and Castles, burning such as would not turne. They tooke Rai∣mund and his Castle of Thermae, his Wife and Daughter; he dyed in prison, they with other La∣dies in the fire. Leopold Duke of Austria, Adolph Earle de Monte, William Earle of Iuliers went thither out of Almaine. An. 1211. a new Armie from many parts, tooke many Cities and Ca∣stles, burning and hanging many, committing the conquered Countrey to Simon Montfort. La∣uallis was taken, and choise giuen to turne or burne, three hundred and fiftie choosing this. The Ladie was cast in a Well and stones throwne on her. [ 40]

Raimund * 1.50 Earle of Tholouse had aide of the King of Arragon, and was an hundred thou∣sand strong (Armoricanus hath two hundred thousand) but was ouer-throwne by the Crosses and Montfort, and the King of Arragon sla••ne, and the certayne number, saith Paris, of the slaine, could not be certainly numbred: some say two and thirtie thousand. Hence new crossed Knights which serued for Indulgence and spoile, in the yeeres 1214. and 1215. Simon possessing himselfe of the great Countries of Earle Raimund, by the Popes procurement, and King Philips grant. The Warres continued 1216. 1217. 1218. in which Simon was slaine. The Warres were prosecuted by Amalricus his sonne, and Lewis sonne to King Philip. These tooke Mira∣monda and slue Man, Woman and Child.

Anno 1219. Tolouse was besieged in vaine, Famine and Mortalitie plaguing the Armie. The [ 50] Warre continued 1220. 1221. In the yeere 1223. the Pope sent his Legat, a Cardinall, with twentie Bishops. King Philip died and appointed twentie thousand pounds to helpe Amalri∣cus against the Albigenses, which grew now strong in Dalmatia, Bulgaria, Croatia. Anno 1225. King Lewis made an Expedition to besiege Auinion, seuen yeeres excommunicate by the Pope, * 1.51 with an Armie of Crusado's. But Earle Raimund had plowed the grounds and preuented all prouision, that Sword, Famine and Pestilence dismayed that huge Armie, wherein the King him∣selfe died, and aboue two and twentie thousand of the Assailants. Loth to wearie you with such bloudie spectacles, effects of Antiphrasticall Indulgences, this Warre is said to continue about seuentie yeeres. The Waldenses encreased notwithstanding daily, and the Warre, saith Thuanus, * 1.52 [ 60] was of no lesse weight then that against the Saracens (which occasioned this whole discourse) and they were rather in the end spoiled then conuerted or conuicted, some remayning close in * 1.53 Prouence, some in the Alpes, some in Calabria to our times, and some in Brisaine.

The Bohemians also were their issue, against whom the Pope vsed like courses of Indulgences,

one hundred and fiftie thousand at one time crossed vnder Sigismund to the war, being out of di∣uers Kingdomes, not to mention the Crusado's by the Cardinals of Winchester and Iulian, with innumerable bloudshed. But I am loth to lothe and wearie you with such cruell Indulgentiall morsells, the Popes feast of mans flesh to the blinded World. Those Bohemian warres had first originall from Hus his preaching, and that also against Indulgences preached against the King of Naples: they were long and bloudie, but more long and bloudie haue those of this last and worst Age beene from like originall, which I leaue to other Authors, to reckon the many many hun∣dreths of thousands of Christians, which one neighbour Countrey, yea one little piece of her neighbour Countrey (not to mention others still bleeding, crying, dying) haue lost in quarrels, died in the bloud of Religion. Money is the life of merchandise, Sinowes of warre, and vphol∣der [ 10] of Greatnesse, without which, Peters succession, pasce Oues, I haue prayed for thy Faith, Constantines supposed donation, and the keyes of the Kingdome of Heauen, had not preuailed to a Papall earthly Monarchie. And Indulgences and Crusado's haue heene his best both Mine and Mint for Money: first, in sharing with Kings which tooke the Crosse, and by Papall power imposed Tenths that he might haue a Twentieth, as he did to Saint Lewis of France. Secondly, * 1.54 in letting out his Indulgences to Kings at a Rent, whereby at this day some get more then by some Kingdomes. Thirdly, by redeeming the Vowes by such meanes as you haue now heard of the Friars, one binding to the Vow, another for money loosing, like a blacke and white De∣uill witching and vnwitching the superstitious vulgar. Fourthly, Kings taking the Crosse to oppresse their Subiects for the charge, with part of the purchase purchasing a Papall Absolution. [ 20] Fiftly, agreeing with Kings to fleece the Church for the Holy Land, that he might doe as much against the Emperour. Sixtly, letting out these Crusado's to ferme, by which Richard Earle of Cornwall, in Matt. Paris, daily so enriched himselfe, how much more the Pope? the Popes preacher (playing the haruest man, to bring into his Barnes or Treasurie) that the fame of his * 1.55 money made him to be chosen Emperour. He of one Archdeaconrie reaped six hundred pounds. William Longspat got by the like gift of the Pope, aboue a thousand marks. Seuenthly, giuing In∣dulgences, that is, the money which might be made of them in recompense of friendship, la∣bours, expenses. Eightly, selling Indulgences to Churches, Images, Altars, Graines, Pray∣ers, &c. thorow the Christian world. Ninthly, by Iubilees, whereof Crusado's were Fore∣runners and Apparitors. Tenthly, by dispensations the Iuno, sister and wife of this Indulgent [ 30] * 1.56 Ioue, or Pluto rather. Eleuenthly, by instituting Offices; Penitentiaries, Notaries, and I know not what rabble for these purposes and his Exchequer Receits, and then selling those multiply∣ed Offices for the greatest summe. But who can summe vp these Accounts? especially being workes of Darknesse, mystie mysteries, which yet are thus farre reuealed, enough to proue the Author the Man of sinne, which by his owne verie sinne, and supposed pardon of others, hath let the raines of the World loose to Sinne; and hereby ruled the World holding the raines in his owne hand. Once; his temporall Monarchie, Collations of Benefices, Dispensations had ne∣uer vnder-propped this mysticall Monarchie, had not Crusado's and Indulgences awed Kings, excited and incited furious Armies, armed furies; depopulated and ruined Kingdomes, and by mayne force bett downe all Opponents abroad, and filled his Coffers at home. [ 40]

But for this of money, Sixtus or Xistus the fourth, was wont to say, that hee should neuer want money so long as he wanted not a Hand and a Pen. And Xistus the fifth, in fiue yeeres and a halfe had gathered fiue millions of treasure, notwithstanding his magnificent and admirable expenses, in Palaces, Churches, Obeliskes, Conduits, and the like. So much could Friars Mi∣nors skill of getting both Papacie and Money. And that you may know of what vse prohibited marriages to Priests and religious Orders are, you may consider how the Pope may make Armies of their numbers in extremitie; and of their purses at pleasure make sponges. Pius the fourth leuied at one time of the Religions foure hundred thousand Ducats; and if he would haue admit∣ted Resignations of Benefices with Regresses, as he was aduised, he might that way haue made a million. Paul the third maintayned twelue thousand foot and fiue hundred horse at his pay, [ 50] vnder Charles the fift against the Lutherans, and yet raysed his house as you see: Clement the seuenth hath notwithstanding his captiuitie done more for his House. Pius the fift sent foure thousand foot and one thousand horse, to aide Charles the ninth against the Protestants. But I haue wearied the Reader in obseruing the effects of this Pope holy Expedition to Ierusalem, and the Papall aduancement thereby. I will adde the vertues of those Holy Land Inhabitants, and then you shall see it the Holy Land indeed, so termed by Antiphrasis, Dignum patella oper∣culum, Lettice sutable to the lips of His Holinesse, who may also haue that Title for the selfe same cause. [ 60]

Notes

• * 1.1

  Gen. 2. 10. 11. Hist. C. T. l. 1.
• * 1.2

  Originall of Indulgences.
• * 1.3

  Occasion of Luthers prea∣ching.
• * 1.4

  Doctrine of In∣dulgences vn∣knowne. Diuers opini∣ons of them.
• * 1.5

  Effects of the opinion of me∣rit and super∣erogation.
• * 1.6

  Pope Adrian the Sixt.
• * 1.7

  Mysterie.
• * 1.8

  Hist. C. T. l. 8.
• * 1.9

  Tract. de Iub. Io. Phest••o ap. Morn myst. Iniq. pag. 1036.
• * 1.10

  Theod. l. 1. c. 68. Plat in Bon. 9. Krantz. Metrop. l. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. c. 10. T. Casc. in Dicti∣on. Theol.
• * 1.11

  10. Epist. 144.
• * 1.12

  P. Dam. ep. ad Petrum cereb. & ap. Sur. Oct. 14. vid. Spalat. ••ep. Eccles. l. 5. c. 8 Sig. de Reg. Ital.
• * 1.13

  P. Virg. de In. rer. li. 8.
• * 1.14

  Ludi seculares.
• * 1.15

  Ross. art. 18.
• * 1.16

  2. Cor 7.
• * 1.17

  Adulterous commixtion of Indulg. and Dispens.
• * 1.18

  Greg. de Valent. de Indulg. vid. Spal. l. 5. c. 8.
• * 1.19

  Vid. Gesta Dei per Francos.
• * 1.20

  G. Malm. l. 4. Baronius hath the same. Iacob. de Uitri∣ac. hist. ••••r. W. Tyr. hist. l. 1.
• * 1.21

  Matth. Paris his very words are in Pope Gregories In∣dulgence granted, Anno 1234. and be∣fore that in Caelestine and Innocent.
• * 1.22

  See of all these Mat. Pa∣ris and the Re∣lations before recited.
• * 1.23

  Hurts in Faith and Manners by these Expe∣ditions, and Pilgrimages to the Holy Land.
• * 1.24

  Pope grew great by Holy Land warres.
• * 1.25

  M. Paris, p. 535.
• * 1.26

  Pag. 653. of all Christen∣dome. Pag. 485.
• * 1.27

  Pag 703.
• * 1.28

  Pag. 1219.
• * 1.29

  Spalat. derep. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. l. 5. c. 9.
• * 1.30

  M. Paris, pag. 302. & seq.
• * 1.31

  Miserable warres and bloudshed of Christians by Papall pro∣curement.
• * 1.32

  King abased to his subiects.
• * 1.33

  Intetdict of six yeares and three moneths
• * 1.34

  Interdicts; how vniust.
• * 1.35

  Ez. 18.
• * 1.36

  Albigenses, o•• Waldenses. Pag. 322. A. 1213.
• * 1.37

  Pop. hist. Fran. lib. 1. fol. 7.
• * 1.38

  Tom. 4. Concil. Edit. Rom. 1612. pag. 44.
• * 1.39

  Vmbert. serm. p. 2. Ser. 64. See D. Vsher de C. Ec. Stat. c. 8. 9. 10. Sabel. En. 9. l. 6.
• * 1.40

  Military Or∣ders, lay Fra∣ternities and Friers. See Usher, pag. 261. Inquisition be∣gun. Iun. Ep. ••••c. l. 1.
• a 1.41

  Most of the chiefe School∣men were Do∣minicans or Franciscans.
• * 1.42

  Pet. de vin. l. 1 Ep. 27.
• * 1.43

  1. Tim. 6.
• * 1.44

  Sabel. En. 9. l. 6.
• * 1.45

  Pag. 561.
• * 1.46

  Pag. 823.
• * 1.47

  Pag. 921.
• * 1.48

  Pag. 1017.
• * 1.49

  See Ush. de Christ. Eccles. Stat. c. 10.
• * 1.50

  R. Earle of Tolouse had the Countrey of Saint Giles, Prouence, Dau∣phine, Venasme, Ruthen, ••adure, Albig. &c.
• * 1.51

  Bertrand. Gest, Tolos.
• * 1.52

  Thu. Praefat. hist.
• * 1.53

  Aen Syl. hist. Bo. Dubr. vl. 2••. 24. & seqq.
• * 1.54

  Matt. Par.
• * 1.55

  Pag. 977.
• * 1.56

  See Act. and Mon. of Tho. Cromwell.