The starry messenger; or an interpretation of that strange apparition of three suns seene in London, 19. Novemb. 1644. being the birth day of King Charles. The effects of the eclips of the sun, which will be visible in England, 11. August 1645. whose influence continues in force, from January, 1646 to Decemb. 1647. almost two whole yeares; and cannot but be the fore-runner of some extraordinary mutation in most common-wealths of Europe, but principally in England. With an answer to An astrologicall judgement. Printed at Oxford, upon his Majesties present martch. / By William Lilly student in astrologie.

An Interpretation, or Declaration, what manner of Accidents may ensue upon the three Suns which appeared in England the 19 of November, 1644, (it being his Majesties Birth-day) by William Lilly.

IT's far from my intention, to make the signification of this extraordinary Prodigie more ominous, because it had its ap∣pearance with us on the same day 44 yeer that his Majestie was born, and ushers in, as it were, the actions of his 45 yeer. I humbly desire his Majestie would be pleased to take some no∣tice hereof; for I conceive he may be hereby much concerned; and the rather, as he is one of the prime Monarchs of Europe, and also in regard it was visible in England, a Kingdom of his own, and of which he is rightfull Inheritor: For doubtlesse, over what City or Countrey these unusuall Apparitions are verticall, or where they do more manifestly shew themselves, those Coun∣treys, in a more sensible and perceptible manner, shall be capable of the effects attending those Apparitions. Nor am I clearly of that opinion many very judicious men, both of forepast and pre∣sent times, are, That such like Prodigies, Comets, &c. do never shew themselves, but as precursors of mischief. What greater be∣nefit did ever happen to mankinde, then the birth of our Saviour Jesus Christ? and yet was his coming manifested to us by a Star or Comet, &c. the like whereof we have never read or heard of. And besides, we have seen in our Age, that if that Comet in 1618 did designe out ill to the Austrian Family, as indeed it did; yet the Swedes did thereupon thrive; and, before them, Bethlem Gabor Prince of Transilvania, attained to great esteem in the world, and enlarged his Patrimony. I do willingly consent to those words of that learned Physitian of our times, D^r Brown, in the small, but unparallel'd Piece of his, Relig. Med. fol. 70. That those noble essences in heaven, bear a friendly regard to their fellow-natures on earth; and that such like Prodigies as these, are the charitable Pre∣monitions of good Angels, which more carelesse Enquiries term but the effects of Chance and Nature.

There be many now living, can hardly believe there was any such thing as three Suns appeared: and why? Because them∣selves had not the sight of them. Others will consent such like things might be seen; but what should be thereby signified, they conceive is beyond Humane Capacity.

To the first sort of men, I say, That, as Christians, we ought to believe the report of one another, especially in a matter wherein there's no danger or prejudice can come either by cre∣diting or not crediting the report, or wherein neither Religion or our neighbour suffer scandall or harm, &c. But I say, Many hundreds, of uncontradictible credit, did behold this: We have it also mentioned in many mens printed Pamphlets; amongst the rest, I hear the witty Aulicus hath glossed thereon. Sure I am, Britannicus promised some Conceptions, which yet are not come to publike view, upon that very subject.

I here represent the form of it, as it appeared in the Element, and was carefully taken and observed by one Master Heylet, who courteously communicated it unto me.

[illustration]

The forme of ••••e three Suns ••••en in England ••9. November 1644.

I will endeavour to give a generall satisfaction, and first will produce the yeers wherein formerly, long before our time, such Prodigies have been seen and recorded, and also what materiall Occurrences did immediately, or within one or two yeers, suc∣ceed: Which being performed, I shall, God willing, fall upon what effects I conceive shall be instantly subsequent to these three Suns, the now-subject of my Discourse.

IT is recorded, that in the One and fiftieth yeer after Christ, there appeared three Suns at once, and forthwith they joyned in one, &c. In that yeer, Clodomire King of France began to re∣cover what his predecessors had lost. Saint Paul was conver∣ted. Luke writes the Gospel. Caractacus the valiant was led in triumph to Rome, where a great Famine was the same yeer.

Anno 66. A Comet was seen, and also three Suns: In which yeer, Florus President of the Jews was by them slain. Paul writes to Timothy. The Christians are warned by a divine Ora∣cle, and depart out of Jerusalem. Boadice a British Queen, kil∣leth Seventy thousand Romanes. The Nazareni, a scurvie Sect, begun, that boasted much of Revelations and Visions. About a yeer after, Nero was proclaimed enemy to the State of Rome.

Anno 69. In the East and in the West two sons were seen, of the which one seemed weak and pale, the other strong and clear. In this yeer Jerusalem was taken by Titus, and Eleven hundred thousand Jews slain and made away in the Siege. Linus was this yeer first Bishop of Rome; where we may carefully note, a Prodigie was the forerunner of Episcopacie at Rome. This yeer Galba is slain by Otho, having reigned but three mo∣neths. And men suppose, that in this yeer the Gospel of Saint John was written at Ephesus.

From hence I passe untill some later Genturies of yeers: for from the yeer 69, to 1103, I finde none recorded in those Au∣thors I have read.

In the yeer 1103, a Comet appeared in Normandy; and not long after, two full Moons, one in the East, the other in the West. The Effects that followed instantly, were these: The son of Henry the Emperour rebelleth against his father: A Coun∣cell was held in London for reformation of the Clergie. (I think

that Tribe is out of order in all Ages.) All married Priests were excommunicated by Anselme: (this was a strict Priest, certain∣ly.) Lewis of France forceth a Restitution of Church-goods sa∣crilegiously taken. This yeer began the long and cruell War be∣twixt the Polonian and Russian. The Venetians obtain large Pri∣viledges of the Emperour.

Anno 1156, the first of October, for three hours, there was seen three Circles about the Sun; which at length vanishing, there was seen two Suns. The Pope, being an English-man, is taken Prisoner. The Kingdom of Denmark is divided: And in the next yeer, the Pope and Emperour fall at variance.

Anno 1157, in September, there were seen three Suns together, in as clear weather as could be: And a few days after, in the same moneth, three Moons, and, in the Moon that stood in the middle, a white Crosse. Sueno King of Denmark, at a great Feast, kil∣leth Canutus: Sueno is himself slain, in pursuit of Waldemar. The Order of Eremites, according to the rule of Saint Augu∣stine, begun this yeer; and in the next, the Pope submits to the Emperour: (was not this miraculous?) Lumbardy was also ad∣judged to the Emperour.

Anno 1168, the first of September, there was seen at once in the West, three Suns: Two hours after, when two were gone, he in the middle went down alone. By mediation of the French King, Becket is restored to his Archbishoprick. Almaricus King of Jerusalem, calleth in the Turks to his aid, which was the ruine of that Kingdom; and, contrary to his Faith given, aids the Greeks against the Egyptians. A Conspiracy arose in Bohe∣mia against the King.

Anno 1169, three Moons appeared. The yeer succeeding, Bec∣ket the stiff Priest was slain in a Church in England, Catana a City in Sicily, is destroyed, with fifteen thousand people, as also the Bishop and Clergie, by an Earthquake. A Smiths son raised great troubles in Norway, pretending himself to be Harolds Grandchilde. The Romanes raze the City of Alba: And in the next yeer, a great Inundation was in Freezland.

Anno 1314, three Moons appeared. Lewis was Crowned Emperour by some Electors, Frederick by the rest. A Councell was at Ravenna for Reformation, &c. Note the instability of

the Clergie. The Pope dieth, and the See is void two yeers and four moneths. The English, under a simple and wilfull King, Edward the second, are overthrown by the Scots, and to pur∣pose. Lewis Hutine comes to the Crown of France, hangs his Treasurer, &c. The Queen of Castile dieth. The Genowayes rob the Venetian Merchants, and invade their Territories.

Anno 1372, the first of July, and some days after, a strange Circle was seen about the Sun, over which appeared two Crosses of a red colour, neer Basill. The French besiege Rochell, and the English defend it. The yeer after, the Order of Nuns of Saint Katharine was founded. Robert Stuart King of Scotland marrieth his Concubine; and John Duke of Lancaster the King of Castiles daughter. The King of Portingall refuseth a Match in Castile, and takes a Noble-mans wife from him, having ba∣nished her husband; at which his people are discontented. Short∣ly after, the Venetians restore Paleologus, being expelled by his son Andronicus.

Anno 1460, the second of February, three Suns appeared, eve∣ry one shewing a severall light, which again closed all together in one. The Duke of York is attainted of Treason. Henry the sixth is taken Prisoner at Northampton. Civill War in France, called, The Weal-publike, caused by the Kings Covetousnesse. The King of France dieth, having, upon a foolish Conceit, for∣born his meat so long, that when after he would eat, he could not. A Rebellion in Spain against the Queen, for death of the Prince. James the third came to the Crown of Scotland. The Duke of York is slain in York-shire. David Emperour of Tra∣pezond, and his two sons, taken and slain by Mahomet the Turk, In the next yeer after, Edward the fourth came to the Crown of England, and poor innocent Henry the sixth sent to the Tower, &c.

Anno 1466, three Suns were seen at Rome; in which yeer E∣rasmus was born. The King of Denmark is excommunicated by the Pope. Warwick and Edward the fourth fall out. John King of Spain is deposed, and Alfonsus crowned. The King of Hun∣garia's brother is taken by the Turks, and beheaded at Constan∣tinople. Gerard the King of Denmark's brother, is imprisoned for aspiring. Matthias of Hungaria is set up against the lawfull

King thereof. Scanderbeg a most valiant Captain against the Turk, dieth. The French King takes from his brother the Dutchy of Normandy.

Anno 1492, the fifteenth of December, three Suns were seen in Poland at noon. The Jews are expelled Spain. Alexander the sixth plays the ungratefull fellow with his Gardinalls. Towards the later end of the yeer, the Emperour of Germany dies; and John Albert succeeds Casimire in the Kingdom of Polonia. The Ganthois in Flanders rebell.

Anno 1514, in January, three Suns were seen in the Dutchy of Wittenberge, the middlemost surpassed the rest in greatnesse: In every of these, there appeared the form of a bloody and fiery sword. The same yeer, in March, three Moons were seen. It was in that yeer some parts of Sussex were burned and spoiled by the Rhodians, in behalf of the French. An Interview fol∣lows, betwixt the Emperour, King of Polonia, and Bohemia. The French King and Pope meet. The Queen of Scotland fleeth into England. The French King dieth, and Francis the first suc∣ceeds, and recovers Millan.

Anno 1515, Queen Mary, the scourge of Protestants, is born in England. Wolsey a proud Priest begins to rise at Court. The Pope falls out with the Venetians.

Anno 1520, the fifth of January, about Sun-rising, three Suns appeared, with a Rainbowe of divers colours, at Vienna. The seventh of January, there were three Suns also seen. After Charles the fifth was Crowned, there was seen a circle about the Sun, with a Rainbowe. The Pope, he spues out his Excommu∣nications against Luther, who as stoutly burns his foolish Bulls. The Pope executes the Tyrant of Perugia. The Duke of Buck∣ingham is in England beheaded for Treason. The French detain our Merchants goods: we imprison the French. Solyman the Magnificent comes to be Emperour of Turkie. The Geldrois rebell. The next yeer after the French War began, which con∣tinued thirty and eight yeers, troubles arise in Scotland. Many rich Cities taken by the Turk in Hungary.

Anno 1523, in Switzerland, there was seen three Suns at once, and also divers Circles in the Element. At Norimberge, in a Diet there held, grievances are exhibited against the Pope.

The Peasants rebell against the Nobles in Germany. Both the French and Swedes are defeated by the Imperialls. The Earl of Surrey burns thirty seven Towns in Scotland. The Duke of Holsten is chosen King of Denmark, and the former King expel∣led for his Cruelty. The Janizaries mutiny at Constantinople.

Anno 1525, there was seen in Hungaria five Suns, two on ei∣ther side the right Sun. The Duke of Luneburg becomes Lu∣therane. The Order of Capuchines is erected. The French King is released out of prison. Fifty thousand Clowns are slain. Henry the eighth falls off from the Emperour. The women of Hague rise against their Customers, upon their exactions: and the Swedes become Lutheranes.

Anno 1526, in Sweden three Suns were seen, with divers cir∣cles in the Elements. The Emperour abolisheth the Popes Au∣thority in Spain. The Tartarian invades the Polonian, and is de∣feated and taken. Rome is wasted by the Columnenses, and besiege the Pope in S. Angelo. A Sedition arose in Suffolk. The holy League made by the French King, Pope, Duke of Millan, and Venetian, against the Emperour. Now was the Battel of Mo∣hatz, where the whole Nobility of Hungary was slain, and the King in flight drowned in a ditch. Bud•• a chief Citie of Hun∣gary, is yeelded to Solyman. The next yeer, the Duke of Bur∣bon takes Rome, sacks it ten moneths. Sweating sicknesse in London, continuing two yeers.

Anno 1528, in Switzerland, and moneth of June, many Suns were seen at once, and about them three circles. A Councell was then held at Sena for Reformation. Images and Popish trumperies abolished at Perne and Strasburg. A Rebellion at Dansk. Some mutinous Ʋtrechters executed by the Bishop. Sharp Differences betwixt Henry the eighth and Queen Katha∣rine. The next yeer, Solyman invades Hungary with One hun∣dred and fifty thousand men. Vienna is besieged, but not taken. The Ransome of the French King is paid.

Anno 1532, the eleventh of April, at Venice, Cardanus saw three fair and bright Suns, with two Rainbowes, not with points descending, but opposite to the Sun. Vienna is relieved by the Emperour. Henry the eighth is divorced from Queen Katherine. 1533, Qveen Elizabeth was born. Sedition

raised by the Anabaptists and strange Factions in Hungary.

Anno 1541, there appeared three Suns; the usuall Sun stood in the Centre, and two bright Circles did environ it. Kathe∣rine Queen of England is beheaded. The Rochellers rebell. Charles the fifth maketh an unfortunate Voyage to Algiers. The Germane Forces are foiled by the Turks, onely by the cowardise of the Leaders. The yeer after, the Scots were beat at Solwy Moss: and their King dies of Melancholly. Transilvania is sub∣dued by Solyman, and given to John. Popery rejected in the Palatinate.

Anno 1550, neer Brunswick, three Suns appeared. Now great troubles arise at Antwerp, and the Inquisition opposed in the Netherlands. Difference betwixt the Emperour and Ferdi∣nand, about succession in the Empire: Some of the Electors arm against the Emperour. The Thames ebbed and flowed three times in nine hours. Peace with Scotland.

Anno 1551, in March, at Magdeburg, about seven in the morning, seven Rainbowes were seen; and in the evening, three Moons. In April, at Wittenberg, three Suns were seen, with va∣rious Circles in the Element. There was seen the same yeer at Antwerp, three Suns, with divers Circles. The same yeer there was seen two mock-Moons twice. In England, the Duke of Somerset is beheaded. A world of Disputes in Germany, about Religion. The French make War with the Emperour.

Anno 1553, three Suns appeared; the middle of a bright co∣lour, but the Parclii or mock-Suns red and bloody. The same day, after Sun-set, three Moons appeared. The Papist and Pro∣testant in England dispute. The King of England dieth. A tu∣mult in Brussels, between the insolent Spaniard and the towns∣men. Now Persecution in England for being Protestants. Queen Mary comes to the Crown; usher'd into the world by a Prodi∣gie, and to the Crown with the like ominous Portent.

Anno 1554, in Bavaria divers kindes of Suns were seen; but especially the sixth of March, two Suns were seen, with a Rain∣bowe. In May the same yeer, two more Suns were seen, the Sun as it were environed all about with a Rainbowe. Wyat ri∣seth in Kent. Philip and Mary married. Sena betrayed to the Emperour by the Pope. Henalt in Arthoys wasted by the French.

Anno 1556, in Saxony two mock-Suns appeared. Charles the Emperour entreth the Monastery of S. Justus, in the confines of Castile. The Lord Sturton is hanged in England for a Mur∣der. Transilvania revolts. Nineteen thousand people at Brus∣sels, die of Cold and Famine. The next yeer, the War is begun betwixt the King of Spain and the Pope. A generall Pestilence happens in England. Calais is lost to the French: and the Scots invade the English. Treasons and Uproars are frequent in Turkie.

Anno 1622, three Suns appeared at Heidelberg. The wofull Calamities that have ever since fallen upon the Palatinate, we are all sensible of, and of the losse of it, for any thing I see, for ever, from the right Heir. Osman the great Turk is strangled that yeer: and Spinola besiegeth Bergen up Zoom, &c.

I have heard it credibly reported, that there were seen, about twelve yeers since, many Suns at one time in Cornwall: and in March 1639, towards Sun-set, three Suns were seen in the West, not far from Oxford.

I have not seen any of these Suns I mention, my self; onely in those six yeers in which I lived in the Countrey, viz. 1636, 1637, 1638, 1639, 1640, &c. many evenings I observed a strange fiery skie, and unusuall forms in the Elements, towards that part of the heaven where Oxford stands, and towards Bark-shire, Hamp-shire, and so also towards Buckingham-shire, &c.

I have the rather repeated these things, that the incredulous of the times might not be wavering, or a party now upon earth too confident that these prodigious Sights have no signification upon Mundane affairs. The Historicall part is now ended, and my own Judgement upon those three Suns apparent the nine∣teenth of November, 1644, followeth: Wherein, if oft repe∣titions of the same thing trouble thee, with modesty or courte∣sie passe them by; for in Astrologie it cannot be avoided: Nor do thou expect an exact Method from me, sith it was no part of my meaning, or could I conveniently do it: Onely this I must tell thee, that the Interpretation I write, is, I conceive, groun∣ded upon probable foundations; and who lives to see a few yeers over his head, will easily perceive I have unfolded as much as

was fit to discover, and that my Judgement is not a mile and a half from truth.

[illustration]

A Figure of the 3 Sonns appearan̄ ♂. 19 Nouember 1644. 9:45. A.M. ab ☍ ♃ in ☌ ☉ ad △ ♄.

• ♀ 21 ♎ ♍ 28
• ☊ 2.38 ♌ 4
• ♂ 2.56 ♋ R ♊ 26.5
• ♊ 5.34
• ♃ 24:47 R
• ♉ 2.0 ♉ 1.0
• ♈ ♄ 14.32 R ♓ 28
• ☋ 2.38 ♒ 4
• ♑ ♐ 26.5
• ☉☽. 7.51
• ♐ ••.34 ♏ 20
• ☿ 18 ♏ 1.0

A Figure erected for the middle time of the three Suns appearance the 19 of No∣vember, 1644. 9 hor. 45 min. A. M.

Londinum Ang∣liae.

MAny Philosophers are of opinion, that these false Suns, a∣mongst the learned called Parelii, do especially appear, when many subtill moist clouds are betwixt us and the Sun. Others, that they are round clouds shining like the Sun; or that they are images of the Sun in a thick and neighbouring cloud in the form of a Mirror. But if that collected clouds, or multi∣tude of vapours, or any Naturall cause, produced such rare and unusuall Apparitions; Why have we not such Sights oft? Its well known, such are not usually seen, although once in a mo∣neth we do not want plenty of Vapours, which, if they were so produced, might cause monethly, or oftner, such like Appari∣tions. And besides, when these three Suns were seen, it was a very fair Sunshine-day, a very clear day, no Clouds, Vapours, Foggs or Mists appearing. Indeed for seven or eight days be∣fore, we at London had extreme stormy Weather, cloudy, windy, rainy, and what not? I did not observe, for a long time, such variety of blustring and unnaturall Weather, which I conceive was occasioned by the late Opposition of Saturn and Venus, and the matutine setting of the Virgiliae, and other most violent fixed

Stars, which, according to Stadius, Hiemem pluviosam denunti∣ant. It is also the opinion of Plinie, Succularum & Pleiadum, occasus Terra Mari{que} turbidum esse. Nor may we forget the ac∣cesse of the Sun to Cor Scorpii, to lessen any ill Weather the days precedent, &c.

Here's Naturall causes for the ill Weather preceding, so many days together; but no cause in Natvre to induce a belief that the three Suns were occasioned from Nature.

I am clearly of opinion, These Sights, as well as many others, were caused by those tutelary Angels, who, by Gods permission, and under him, have the Government of the English Common-wealth. They are sensible of those many impending Miseries now too plentifully amongst us. Their conference with man now, as in the days of old, very few attain unto, it being a bles∣sing sought after by many, attained unto by few: And yet there are some of opinion, There lives in the world some, and of those some, a small Party in England, that know more then they utter, and, either by Vision, or verball Colloquie, have the knowledge of future events, yea, even from the blessed Angels.

But alas, these are Riddles; I must adhere unto my Astrolo∣gie; and yet wish all happinesse to those good souls that either confer with their own Genius, whom some call, A good Angel; or with such other of those heavenly Ministers whom God in mercy affordeth them. And herein let no Reader mistake me; for I abhor Witches, or those Necromancers that raise the de∣ceased out of their graves, or those Circular Priests now almost worn out of the world: My meaning is this, That I do believe there are many now living, to whom God, by his Angels, gives Revelation of things to come: And where and to whom God gives such a blessing, I believe that Saint may lawfully use the Talent God hath enabled him with.

But I leave this obsolete, though excellent Learning, to another Discourse, and come to the Text it self.

I do somewhat adhere to Cardan, Seg. 4. Apho. 94. Signa cir∣ca Solem, in Luna vel Stellis, aut circa eas, tum in Coelo valdè ali∣ena a naturali cursu; si locum ubi apparent, & figuram Coeli cum hoc, ea hora ab initio in finem observabis, intellegere possis quid signi∣ficent: Viz. If you observe any strange forms or signes about the

Sun, or in the Moon or Stars, or neer unto them, and those unu∣suall signes are strange, or contrary to a naturall course; consider the place where they appear, and compare the Figure of heaven with it, set to the beginning of their appearance, and considered untill its end, and then you may understand the signification thereof.

The better to direct me in my Judgement, I have erected three Scheams of heaven, and, according to my mean Capacity, judg∣ed thereupon of the effects of these three Suns.

Neither indeed is Cardanus single in his Judgement; for Ludo∣vicus de Rigiis, Apho. 88. lib. 2. saith, Monstruosa corpora & por∣tenta, quando ultra modum acciderint, hora ipsorum consideranda est, nihil accidit, quin a corporibus supercoelestibus designetur effectus. Monstrous bodies, and seldome seen, when beyond nature they chance to shew themselves; the hour of their first being is to be considered: there's no such things happen; but the effects there∣of are designed from the supercelestiall bodies.

And though this may seem strange to most men that shall read this Discourse; yet I hope the Judgement following shall, in some measure, better satisfie them, if they will have patience first to read it warily, and then to observe the generall Affairs of England, and all or the most part of Christendom, presently, or within a little compasse of time subsequent. Nor let any hu∣morist presse me too hard for reason in every thing falls from my Pen: Multa res sunt quae non videntur ratione naturali esse, effe∣ctus quidem earum per formas superiorum corporum considerare pos∣sumus habere{que} eas, si in tempore proprio investigatae quaesitae{que} sunt. Rigel. Lib. 2. Apho. 77. Many things do come to passe, for which we can give no naturall reason: we may attain to discern the ef∣fects by the forms of superiour Bodies, and exactly▪ to know them, if we search and look after them in their proper times. By which this learned Grecian intends, that the true notion of what may be signified by these late disastrous three Suns, or any other unnaturall Apparition, is most easily attained, by taking the exact time of their first appearance, and then the erection of a Scheam of heaven.

And this I finde further confirmed by Cardanus, Apho. 95. Seg. 40. Monstra verò & portenta clades & mortes hominum, sed

non eodem modo neque statim significant, oportet autem & exortus eorum considerare, sed illorum casus▪ & vis non est praesentis contem∣plationis. The meaning whereof is to inform you, that upon any generall Misfortune happening, or any sudden Calamity chancing amongst men, you are to observe the first time of its motion, and thereby frame your Astrologicall Judgement upon the Accidents subsequent.

Its first considerable, in what nature, kinde, or thing, this prodigious Appearance shall manifest it self in, and upon what kindes of▪ Men, People, Kingdoms, or Countreys; and lastly, its Determination, &c.

Of all which I will treat, but not methodically, for some rea∣sons best known to my self, &c. For let it be considered, how dangerous it is to speak truth in significant Language, in this Age, and at this time, when Opinion is more prevalent then sober Judgement, and when a word modestly misplaced, may more puzzle me by information of some seeming-Saint Coxcomb, then either reall Treason against my Prince, or Blasphemy in Re∣ligion, &c. But I slight these pedantick Informers.

BE it known then unto all men by these Presents, That Hu∣jusmodi imagines & figurae multa minantur, frequenter enim aut Civitati ali••ui, aut Regioni, aut Regno, vel Principi, Regi, Caesarivè, quae expressis alias verbis sibi dici non tolerarent. Such Sights as these three Suns, or other Images or terrible Figures appearing in the heavens, do threaten many things frequently either to some City, Region, Kingdom, Prince, or Emperour: and further, these are manifested in such extraordinary manner in the heaven by Signes, because such persons as above named, will never suffer any man in plain words to acquaint them with so much.

The Apparition being visible in England, the whole Kingdom is concerned more or lesse.

The Lord of the tenth in the seventh House, Retrograde: our prime men, of all Qualities, are intended to share in the Mischief hereby portended.

Kings, Princes, Nobility, &c. of which anon.

I particular out no one; Quis enim prudens id periculi subiret?

What man would run such a hazard of danger? Licet Astrono∣miae & Magiae pertissimus, ut Principi alicui aut Regi Caesarivè in os diceret▪ tibi hoc accidet, tu occideris, glande trajicieris, subditi tui te Regno exuunt, & ejicient, in exilium agent, subditi tui dat•• fide violata & rebellione facta te repudiabunt, & Domino alio ju∣rabunt? What an Asse were the Astrologian, or skilfull Magi∣cian, saith Paracelsus, if upon the appearance of a Prodigious Sight in the Elements, he should say, to the face of a Prince, King, or Emperour▪ Such a thing shall happen unto thee, Thou shalt be slain, knockt in the head with a Bullet, Thy Subjects shall spoil thee, and cast thee out of thy Kingdom, Thou shalt live a banished man in another Countrey, Thy own Subjects or People, notwithstanding their Fealty or Homage done, shall vi∣olate their Faith given, raise Rebellion, repudiate and scorn thy Acts and Person, and perform Service to some other Lord. This is a pretty piece of Stuff.

If we believe the sayings of the wise, that were curious in search after such like Prodigies; you that are Emperours, Kings, Princes, Dukes, or the principall Rulers of all Common-wealths in Europe, have reason to be carefull of your selves, and to thank me for putting you in minde of such things as these: Be angry, and you please, I care not; I must discharge my Con∣science.

Its not unknown to the Learned, that Europe is now at this time under the last Conjunction of Saturn and Jupiter, in the Watry Trygon, and signe of Pisces. Its not unknown, as I may say, how preposterously and irregularly that Conjunction slips in betwixt two Conjunctions of the Fiery Triplicity, the first entrance whereof was in 1603, and their Conjunction in the eighth degree of Sagittarius, the very self-same signe, degree, and quarter of heaven the Sun and Moon are in upon this present Apparition.

King James came to be our English King that yeer.

In the full-Moon postventionall to the Comet, 1618, the Sun was in the tenth degree of Sagittarius. In the second Conjun∣ction of Saturn and Jupiter, 1623, the almost degree of this present Lunation did mediate heaven. King Charles went into Spain that yeer.

In the yeer 1642/3, when Saturn and Jupiter made their last Conjunction, the place of the Luminaries at this time was then the Cusp of the tenth house: and the Sun now in Partill square to his then-place, the Moon at this present, her Latitude conside∣red, is in almost Partill Opposition to the place of Mars then: The Scheam of heaven then and now, differ very little or nothing at all. This is written, to satisfie Artists: He that would know more, let him repair to the Tract I wrote, called Englands pro∣pheticall Merlin.

These are all Arguments, and not mean ones, of premonition to a Family, and that no mean one, That a storm, and that also a furious one, is ready to rush down upon their heads. Doubt∣lesse this Prodigie is a more neer and significant Interpreter then any hath been this half Century of yeers, of that fatall Doom hanging at this time as it were in the Air by a twine threed, over some obstinate and sinking Progenies in Europe. These three Suns shew acceleration of what hath mercifully a long time been forborn, and that now, after so many Warnings, divine Providence will not be deluded by the strugling or frail and brit∣tle policie of man.

Cardan hath such words as these, Seg. 5. Apho. 67. Cum{que} tres So∣les eodem modo, & in ambitu medii Circulus completus ac permanens ad modum Iridis, eo anno in Civitate libera nascetur ex Civibus Rex, quod si cum hoc, Stella apparuerit in die lucida, erit in eadem hora. When three Suns appear, and in the compassing round of the middle one a complete Circle is permanent, in manner of a Rainbowe; in that yeer, in a free Citie (or Common-wealth) there's born of some Citizen one that shall be a King: But if upon the time of such an appearance, some glorious Star shew it self in the day-time, the Infant is born the same hour, mutatis mutandis. The words of this learned Philosopher stretch to this sense, That when such a Prodigie as he speaks of appears, it shews, or is the antecedent of some new Principality, or some notable Priviledges to be obtained, or the birth or rise of some man or Common-wealth to Sovereignty, and to that supreme Command which was not before. Believe me, O all you great ones, there's some such Monster in hatching, as the depriving of many of you of that Freedom your Ancestours left you, &c.

If we take signification from the predominant Planet, we shall acquaint you in plain English, That Religion shall be a strong Pretender, and a painfull Stickler in most Common-wealths, for some yeers. Venus, as now posited, tells you how much some sober and modest Judgements endeavour to settle things purely, soberly, and legally: But if you look into the third house, you shall finde Saturn Retrograde, and in oppositi∣on to her. Master Booker saith, Saturn signifies Tom Jew and Jack Jesuite: Bona fide, I say, That we are hereby premonished of men in our Common-wealth that are as superstitious as the Jew, and malicious as the Jesuite; and that these hodge-podge mixture of shallow-brains shall disturb all our proceedings. Good God! that so much deceit and hypocrisie should be veiled, and we continue ignorant of the Plot thereby intended.

What incongruous and inconsistent Opinions, even to rea∣son it self, do I foresee by this froward and malicious Aspect of Saturn, shall appear in the world, vex all or most Nations, un∣do almost every State and Common-wealth.

Methinks here's to be plenty of Ambassadours severally em∣ployed: What Conclusion they shall make, the Retrogradation of Jupiter in the fifth tells you, Worse and worse, Tinker-like, mend one hole, and make two; or, if you will, Salve up a little Breach, and not long after make one five times greater.

Mutuall Assistance shall be pretended, and one Nation or Com∣mon-wealth leagues with another; but to what purpose? That Policie which in the conception of the wisest Statist is held most convenient for his Prince and Countrey, even in that very point shall his King or State suffer most detriment. Can we delude God? or have the Stars no Influence? or can we by Art or Na∣ture make the two unnecessary invironing Suns, which are no better then Scar-crows or outward appearances, to be reall, proper and materiall ones? I must deal plainly, that we in Eng∣land, (for Saturn is in Aries, the Ascendant of England) under pretence of a glorious shew for Reformation in divine matters, intend deceitfully; and that mischievous Intentions, under reli∣gious Pretensions, are most viperously cloked.

But upon maturer Consideration, while I see the hand of the Almighty deading and dulling our understandings, I apprehend

the Stars as directory-Messengers of some such things, but in my solid Judgement conclude it the All-seeing providence of God. God is angry we will see nothing; but more angry, because, though some do see and perceive, and know to what Ruine we are hastening; yet, like mute Statu's, they are silent in this great necessity of the State, and close up their mouthes, lest they should utter Verity.

My Genius, if it be lawfull to say so, dictates unto me nothing but Fraud, Cozenage, Dissimulation, Hypocrisie, will be used amongst some pretended-Reformers both of Church and Com∣mon-wealth.

If I understand any thing, scandalous aspersions shall, with∣out number or just cause, be fathered upon our Parliament and their Proceedings: hainous and formidable Informations against the Nobility and Gentry. Seurrilous Reproaches from all parts shall fall upon our Senior and Orthodox Clergie-men, from a Junior sort of Rabbies, a Serpentine people not heretofore visi∣ble or known in the world, lately elapsed by chance, not from heaven, (where Goodnesse it self dwells) but from the Moon, (which Galileus saith is habitable) in some terrible Thunder∣clap: for I believe they were so terrified and stupified in their hearings, by their so violent descent in that storm, that not any sense could ever since pop into their Noddles.

Reason in Astrologie must be given, and so it shall. Mercury generally signifieth in Man, Youth: his Orientality of the Sun, and in the Figure, addes more Youth: But now in the sense I speak it, it tells the whole World, the Novelty of what now most afflicts us. Jupiter is generally a Significator of Nobility, and by position of the Clergie, he is under the earth, and in the descending part of heaven: we hear of things now, that did not appear before, &c. From whence I frame this Judgement, That Youth, or young novell Opinions or Disputations, shall deceitfully prejudice maturer Judgements, with Lyes, Hypocri∣sie, Calumny, Impudence, &c. And I say again, Because Mars that is Lord of the tenth House, disposeth of Mercury, and he is Retrograde in the seventh House, and mansion of the Moon, and opposite to the Ascendant; I deliver ingeniously this free∣hearted Judgement, That if his Majestie give protection to such

upstart pretended-Saints, he shall run Retrograde, that is, he shall receive infinite Dishonour by it. And to our Parliament I say, If Connivance be had, under their Protection, with these superlative assuming Zelotes, (for my heart will not suffer me to abuse Religion so much, as to call them Religious) the Par∣liament shall more suffer in the conclusion, even by them, then either by the Turk, were he armed against us, or all the Forces of any potent Enemy. I cannot call them by any certain name, that so they might be distinguished: do but observe their acti∣ons, and it best informs you: they absolutely studie nothing but Division, &c. and suppression of Monarchy.

The very true meaning of these three Suns, is to inform every Common-wealth of Europe, that they are hastening to either their Confusions, or unavoidable Dangers: The Counsels of the most aged shall be despicable, the Projections of the younger men shall cause Insurrections, Slaughters, Murders; the Advice of the most wise shall be innocently slighted. A great Work is in hand.

Both Sun and Moon are ill placed. Both Kings and People, and all Common-wealths, are in their Councels now to seek. They have cunningly, as long as they could, carried their Devices secretly: This Prodigie speaks, as if we shall discover more then is wished, and yet conceal enough to undo us.

Three Suns have been seen many times, and severall Circles, sometimes over, sometimes under the true and proper Sun: Se∣ditiones inter mortales manifestas ostendunt, & ab omni concensu concordia{que} alienationem: Junct. 312. Here's a strange thing, that they do manifest publike and eminent Seditions amongst mortall men, and a generall alienation or aversnesse to any Peace, Agreement, or Unity. Infinite Divisions these three Suns are the Forerunners of; of sturdie Disturbances to Emperours, Kings, Princes, and all manner of Principalities: and they do usually shew a generall Calamity at hand; they declare Schisms and Rents in the Church, Disorder amongst the Religious, the brooding or upstarting of some cragged or rugged Tenents in Divinity, some admirable, miraculous, and unexpected passages amongst men, a generall Delirium or madnesse, or Confusion in Opinions reigning and raging, and to domineer in most parts of

those Countreys adjacent to the place of appearance. All man∣ner of inferiour people threatning their Superiours and Com∣manders, grumbling, repining, whispering out revenge against them: No union in Counsel, or constancy in Opinion: No∣thing is thought on, but how to bring the whole Fabrick of every Common-wealth out of frame: Not a man appears, but he is more judicious in State-affairs then Ahithophel: Each Cob∣ler in Divinity assures himself of more knowledge then Calvin, Luther or Melancton were acquainted with, poor Ideots: The acts of the most Reverend men preceding such times, are called in question, the validity of their Judgement undervalued, and a Rabble of Saturnine people fill the Times with Ignorance, the Church with Sects, the Common-wealth with Beggery, and their own Coffers, tantum quantum, with as much Money as they can theevishly cozen the King, Kingdom and State of.

Is there need of more Suns then one in the day? or of more then one Moon in the night? or of one King in a Kingdom? one entire Government in a Common-wealth? one uniformity in the Affairs of the Church? Verily I think that man out of his wits, that would affirm a positive necessity of more: and yet usually, after the appearing of such Prodigies, such lawlesse and and unaccustomed Monsters appear: and even such most irre∣gular Attempts are to be prosecuted by people of as great anti∣quity as the two mock-Suns, which appeared at an instant, but vanished not away in a moment.

When God Almighty had drowned the world, in confirma∣tion he would do so no more, he produced the Rainbowe, and made it appear at all times and seasons in a constant and naturall form and manner, ever opposite to the Sun; and this was out of his great love to Mankinde: But while in anger he permits his ministring Angels (as now he did) to manifest to our eyes a Rainbowe (and that such a one as no Age hath absolutely recor∣ded the like) to appear with the Bend of it downward, just over the naturall Sun. The Prognostick part hereof may gravell an assured Judgement. Reader, pity the weaknesse of Humane understanding, and let thy love appear, in charitably passing by my failings.

The Portent of this Prodigie is very great: The Angels are

willing we should discern something, else why was it made vi∣sible? There was no necessity of it.

O All you Emperors, Kings, Princes, Rulers and Magistrates of Europe, this unaccustomed Apparition is like the Hand∣writing in Daniel to some of you; it premonisheth you, above all other People, to make your peace with God in time: You shall every one of you smart, and every one of you taste (none excepted) the hea∣vie hand of God, who will strengthen your Subjects with invincible Courage to suppresse your Misgovernments and Oppressions in Church or Common-wealth: Nor shall War cease, or the Sword of God leave persecuting you and your Off-springs, untill this great Work is perfectly done. What will you say, if the Almighty is rea∣dy to let fall from heauen a new Government, quite contrary to any hath hitherto been in the world? Here's threatned an universall In∣surrection against you by your oppressed People. Here's either the Deposing, Flight, or finall Extirpation of some of you, at hand: Your Viceroys, Lieutenant-Generalls, shall quake and tremble, and prove men of no Courage▪ shall shrink from you in your greatest necessity: Your Confederates shall fail in reall Performances, and do you more mischief then a professed enemy: Your Children shall wan∣der as banished People all over the world, die unlamented in strange Countreys, while some of your own Generation, of set purpose, shall bring you in dislike of your vassails.

Those words are generall: A word to my own Countrey of England. Verily I am doubtfull there's now as great Treason in hatching against England, as either the Armado in 1588, or furi∣ous Gunpowder-Plot in 1605. I am scrupulous, for the love I bear to my native Soil, whilest I conceive there's a second Mas∣sacre in agitation; and yet I faithfully believe we shall really o∣vercome it, and maturely, and in good sadnesse, take lusty Ven∣geance on the Contrivers, &c.

Are not both the Lights, in our Scheam, with or neer Cor Scorpii, a most violent fixed Star? which usually (if we believe Antiquity or Experience) threatens sudden and violent death; else why have we this Aphorism? Cor Scorpii cum Luminaribus cruentam mortem, aut ex veneno repentinam denuntiat. He or she

of any great Family, that hath either the Sun or Moon, or both, with this Star, in the Radix of their Nativities, are threatned hereby, either to die some violent death by casualty, Sword, Gun, or Poison. Look to your selves; here's some monstrous death towards you. But to whom? wilt thou say. Herein we con∣sider the Signe, Lord thereof, and the House: The Sun signi∣fies in that Royall Signe, great ones; the House signifies Captivi∣ty, Poison, Treachery: From which is derived thus much, That some very great man, what King, Prince, Duke, or the like, I re∣ally affirm I perfectly know not, shall, I say, come to some such untimely end.

What Magistrate soever of Europe hath the Sun or Moon in the place now afflicted, his person and estate will be in danger: Where the 6, 7 or 8 of Sagittarius do culminate, he loses his Sovereignty: where the same degrees arise in the Horoscope, it threatens his life; witnesse the King of Sweden, &c.

Great men may, and I know will, despise these favourable Admonitions. Let them so do, and afterwards cry, Had I wist.

Here in our Figure we have all the superiour Planets Retro∣grade, as if all the Grandees of the world, and every principall man in his kinde, should finde vexation enough; or as if every State and Common-wealth, or Society of men, were declining, and ready to suffer in one kinde or other. Significat etiam mor∣bos populares, & mortalitates & quod ibi morietur Rex: Haly▪ Popular Diseases, that is, abundance of the common people shall die by the Sword, Mortality, &c. And where these affli∣ctions are in most force, there, and in that Land, shall the King or principall Officer die.

What successe shall follow of Treaties, or from or by means of Messengers, Commissioners, Ambassadours, Nuntio's, Gene∣rall or Provinciall Councels, you may read by the positure of Mercury in Scorpio, hastening to Opposition of Jupiter. The Significator in fixed Signes, shew the tediousnesse of such like matters, the length of time shall be spent in Embassages, Trea∣ties, Counsels: but was there ever (without the immediate finger of God) any good Conclusion, when the Significators ap∣plied by opposition? Long, deceitfull and painfull Debates, slen∣der and impertinent Conclusions.

Men are employed by some, to good intents and purposes; but one dash of a Pen, one simple underhand-missive of or from a guilty Secretary, or male-contented States-man, or one scrupu∣lous Tenent of or from an unsetled Separatist, hinders and makes void all conclusion of difference by Negotiations and Treaties. Whereas formerly Commissioners from Prince to Prince have determined the greatest Controversies ever happened; there's now in the Figure of heaven no apparance of such blessings, the Sword being onely intended to decide these consuming Plagues and inveterate Quarrels that either have or shall, for some yeers, rise amongst the European Common-wealths.

Blinded shall be the eyes of the wisest discerning men, curbed and disheartned shall be the intentions of the cordiall, slandered shall be the well-wishes of innocent and harmlesse souls, who are not so verball, to no purpose, as some airy spirits.

Wars shall be prolonged, beyond either the reason or judge∣ment of the wisest States-man now living, nay, untill the furi∣ous Souldier himself is weary.

The Rainbowe seemed occularly to be amongst the Northern Constellations, above the Aequator, in that space of heaven where the learned place Serpentarius, or the form of a Serpent, his mouth gaping wide open, and a Crown ready to fall into the Serpents mouth.

This is the second time, within one yeers space, that some Princes of Europe have been threatned with Ruine and Destru∣ction; (if they repent not) for the last of June, 1644, there were strange Apparitions in the heavens, in this very Constella∣tion; and now again this unusuall Rainbowe extending it self over the proper Sun, and quite thorow the body of the Serpent. Let me adde to this, The subsequent Eclipse I shall write of, hath no little signification in the fortune and persons of Kings and great men.

Was not our mother Eve deceived by ill counsel given unto her by the devil in form of a Serpent? and was not Adam thereby himself mistaken, and so his whole Posterity made capable of that punishment he for that suffered, and we all by his act?

It was not Adam, it was not Eve, but the Serpent: Its not Kings or Princes, its not their Queens or Ladies, that invent

those execrable Counsels so totally destructive; no, it's the Ser∣pent, it's, in plain language, such destructive Counsel as is put into them by Serpents, that is, ill Counsellors. Its Mercury in Scorpio, its religious men in habit, but devils in conditions; its men of great Conformity outwardly, that deceitfully hatch these hellish Advices.

I wish, in time, great men to become themselves; for if some good Angel hath hitherto seemed to keep their Crowns, their Dominions, their Authority, from dropping into the Serpents mouth, that is, from Ruine, Approach of forreign Power, or Incursion, &c. yet now, as in a little time this Rainbowe va∣nished, and so left the true Sun naked, and to recive any impres∣sion; so questionlesse, in a short time, shall Princes, after an unwonted manner, be deprived of Friends, Rule and Domini∣on, by people formerly contemptible, scarce dreamed of, and which themselves, within lesse then a few yeers, aimed at no such thing.

The most Ancient and Noble Families of Europe are decli∣ning; but especially here not far remote, or in England: And this Saturn by Retrogradation doth easily declare.

The Nobility and Gentry who have continued many Genera∣tions are now sinking▪ and an inferiour sort of people, by plain Legerdemain, are ascending; but whether to heaven, or worldly preferment, sub judice lis est.

The Souldier, whom I most honour, shall tremble, and yet fight for he knows not whom or what: as Mars in the seventh House doth manifestly declare.

Germany that part thereof

Some parts of France, and my own dear Countrey of Eng∣land, and therein especially Kent, Sussex, Surrey, part of Essex, Suffolk and Lincoln, and parts adjacent.

Oxford shall suffer both with Sword, Sicknesse, Famine, Plague, if not finall Subversion.

Shall the City of Rome escape? No, nor Pamfilio the now present Pope shall continue scarce six yeers, without Poison, or Opposition; I will not say, Deposition.

I omit some Countreys purposely; for Infidelity and Ingra∣titude

is to be requited with Blood; the sword, and not words. Some shall, notwithstanding their prudence, be ensnared, with∣out caution.

I wish cordially all happinesse to the Kingdom of Scotland: Nor shall some waspish Antagonists of that Nation against A∣strologie, cause me to love the Kingdom the worse. There's not yet any probability of a constant Settlement in that Com∣mon-wealth.

Let us expect to hear of some mutiny amongst the Turks, and in Constantinople: and Faction amongst the Nobles in Polonia.

I cannot predicate good to the barbarous Irish.

I am doubtfull Denmark is appointed for a Patern either of Vengeance or Mercy: it is, it must suffer more and more.

This prodigious Apparition foreshews to all England a gene∣rall Infelicity, perhaps to all Europe, I mean, to the North-East part thereof, so situate from London in England.

A Famine, Scarcity of bread and provision for Man, is like to be subsequent; the Murrain of Cattel, infectious and pestiferous Diseases, as well in man as in beast; and full Plague and half a Plague, this yeer and the next, not in Villages onely, but almost in every great Town of England. Horrible persecution of the Nobility and Gentry; and indeed the Runaways from our Parlia∣ment deserve no lesse, and some besides. Some superlative Discord with and concerning Religion, and Controversies therein.

Incursions of forreign Princes into their Neighbours Territo∣ries, Friends and Allies. No belief upon earth amongst men.

Surely the world is not yet at an end: But whosoever shall see, or have the unhappinesse to survive the two or three yeers next succeeding, will wonder at the strange Metamorphosis and Catastrophe of Humane Chances in Christian Common-wealths, where Jesus Christ is professed with so much pretended-Zeal, but his Doctrine practised with so slender Devotion.

Nor shall many, and those not the least Cities and Towns of England, suffer in their private Common-wealths, lesse then a new moulding of their present Government.

Did the wit of man of set purpose studie it, he could not finde out so many unnecessary Inventions for present and future destruction, as we our selves, with premeditated wisedom,

finde out, with intention to salve up all our sores.

We begger our selves with Wit, and destroy Mankinde with Discretion.

In good truth, the City of London is like to be afflicted (and now simple George at Oxford holds his mouth wide open) with the Plague, and some other Pestilentiall or Purse-Diseases, &c. Do not I see both the Sun and Moon in Opposition to Gemini? Their Ships are like to suffer by Fire and Pyracie, &c. Is not Ge∣mini the Signe descending on the Cusp of the sixth and seventh? God blesse their Ships from Sea-fights and Shipwracks.

And yet methinks there's one in the world looks high, born, and in being, that would, but shall not, exalt himself to a Crown. Quicun{que} fuerit ex stirpe Regali, si in ejus Radice Nati∣vitatis fuerint duo Soles, erit Regibus contrarius, &c.

My friend, be quiet, thou art not the man, thy time is short; the Chicken of the West shall prevail: Return in peace, if thou canst, to the Sepulchre of thy not-Kingly Ancestours, &c.

This is part of the little I am able at present to put forth, concerning the Signification of the three Suns; whose Effects cooperating with the im∣mediate subsequent Eclipse in August, shall not determine in lesse time then three whole yeers. Dixi.