An astrological speculation of the late prodigy. Or A clear discovery of the approaching miseries signified by that comet, or blazing star which hath so long been visible, to several countries and nations in November, December and January; in the year 1680. Being a full account of the manner or nature of its effects, and in what countries they'l be exhibited. Also the true way of judging the effects, of all other comets, and such apparitions, carefully collected from the best experimental judgments of the choicest aphorisms, and according to their fundamental, and methodical rules; now in a seasonable time manifested in a plain and homely stile; fit for the understanding of mean capacities. By Thomas Jones a lover of learning, and student in astrology; & autodidactus.

To the Courteous Reader.

THough this be the third time I have presented my Service and weak endeavours to thy use, yet is this the first time I have appeared in this language, or in this nature, as touch∣ing Comets: I must confess that I never wished from my heart, that my opinion in Judicious ways should prove false and fail, until this time: But now I do heartily wish that I may be mistaken therein: Here is nothing but mischief and tribulation threatned, and truly had I not seen such great mischiefs and afflictions hanging over our heads for our sins, I had at this time been silent: But since by these signs we are forewarned of approaching evils, I hold it not meet to be silent at such a time; although I know it unlikely for any one in this way of writing to please all people: Yet I desire, and hope that my honest en∣deavours may not prove Offensive to any. We find that the old Stu∣dents in this way are very backward in publishing their Judgments on that wonderful Star, as we suppose, either because they feared to err therein; or that it would incur the displeasure of some one that might return them an unwelcome reward; therefore if I do err at my first step on the Stage in this Judicious way, I hope I may be the more ex∣cusable, or if I speak darker, or shorter than I might, I desire also to be excused, in regard that the pleasing of others to my own prejudice would avail me nothing. I had adventured to publish this small Trea∣tise of mine some months sooner, had not my time been taken up in other concerns; the further we are from the time that the Star appeared, the nigher we are to the miseries threatened by it. Therefore I think it not unseasonable to move the minds of sinners to consider it; and all that I shall now say to the purpose is no more mine than the Rules of the An∣cients, and the words of my Authors. I have done nothing here with an intent to displease any one: But if any will be offended without a cause let them not blame me but their own ill nature, that will be an∣gry with me for endeavouring to please them. I am sure there is none more diligent or willinger to please you, than

Your painful Servant, THO. JONES.