in their censures, as unmercifull to the poore, &c.
4. For ungratefull vilifying Gods mercies, I thinke our people exceed therein the Israelites that dwelt in the wilder∣nesse. Heavenly Manna, the Word of life, that plentifully falleth among us, is by superstitious, schismaticall, and pro∣phane persons loathed. Superstitious persons wish for Queene Maries dayes againe. Schismatiques wish there had beene no reformation unlesse it had beene better. The pro∣phane cry out of too much preaching.
5. For Magistrates abusing their authority, all the com∣plaints of the Prophets may too justly be taken up against many of ours, if at least this were a fit place to make com∣plaints of their bribe-taking, perverting justice, oppressing the innocent, using their power to their owne turnes, &c.
6. For Ministers perverting their function, many among us exceed the false prophets among the Iewes. None grea∣ter discouragers of the upright. None greater animaters of the prophane. The greatest zeale which they use to shew, is in their bitter invectives against such as make most consci∣ence of sinne. They are too great companions with the base∣er and lewder sort.
7. For trampling upon such as are fallen, so inhumane are many, as they do not onely stretch themselves upon their beds, and drinke wine in bowles, while their brethren ••e groaning under sore afflictions: or (like the Priest and Levite) passe by without succouring such as are not able to helpe them∣selves: but like Iobs friends charge them with hypocrisie, or like the Iewes account them the greatest sinners, or as Shemei, raile on them: and so give them (instead of a cup of consolation) vinegar and gall to drinke.
8. For conspiracy and consent in sin, when was there more, then among us. Great ones, meane ones, old, young, male, female, Magistrates, subjects, Ministers, people, rich, poore, masters, servants, all of one mind to disgrace integrity and to countenance impiety and iniquity. Insomuch as the Pro∣phets complaint is too truly verified among us, He that re¦fraineth from evill maketh himselfe a prey.