The second and last collection of the dying speeches, letters, and prayers &c. of those eminent Protestants who suffered in the west of England (and elsewhere) under the cruel sentence of the late Lord Chancellour, then Lord Chief Justice Jefferys : with an account of their undaunted courage at the barr and afterwards : with the most remarkable circumstances that attended their execution.

The Second and Last COLLECTION OF THE Dying Speeches, LETTERS and PRAYERS, &c. OF Those Eminent Protestants who Suffered in the West of England, and elsewhere.

A short Recollection of some Passages of Mr. William Jenkins, who Suffered at Taunton, Septemb. 30. 1685.

A Friend discoursing to him at Dorchester about his Par∣don, and telling him the doubtfulness of obtaining it, he replyed, Well, Death is the worst they can do, and I bless God, that will not surprize me, for I hope my great work is done. At Taunton being advised to govern the Airiness of his Temper, tell∣ing him it made People apt to Censure him, as Inconsiderate of his Condition, to which he Answered, Truly, this is so much my natural temper that I cannot tell how to alter it; but I bless God I have, and do think seriously of my eternal Concerns; I do not allow my self to be vain, but I find Cause to be chearful, for my Peace is made with God, through Jesus Christ my Lord; this is my only ground of Comfort and Chear∣fulness, the security of my Interest in Christ; for I expect nothing but Death, and without this I am sure Death would be most dreadful; but having the good hope of this, I cannot be melancholly. When he heard of the Triumphant Death of those that suffered at Lyme,

he said, This is is a good incouragement to depend upon God: Then speaking about the mangling of their Bodies, he said, Well, the Resurrection will restore all with great advantage; the 15th. Chap. of the first of Corinthians is Comfort enough for all Believers: Discours∣ing much of the certainty and felicity of the Resurrection at another time, he said, I will (as I think I ought) use all lawful means for the saving of my Life, and then if God please to forgive my sins, I hope I shall as chearfully embrace Death. Upon the Design of attempt∣ing an Escape, he said, We use this means for the preserving of our Lives, but if God is not with us in it, it will not effect it; it is our business first to seek to him for Direction and Success, if he sees good, with resigning our Lives to him, and then his Will be done. After the Disappointments, when there was no Prospect of any other Op∣portunity, he spake much of the Admirableness of God's Provi∣dence in those things that seem most against us, bringing the greatest good out of them; for, said he, We can see but a little way, God is only wise in all his Disposals of us; if we were left to chuse for our selves, we should chuse our own Misery. Afterwards Dis∣coursing of the Vanity and Unsatisfyingness of all things in this World, he said, It is so in the enjoying, we never find our Expecta∣tions answered by any thing in it, and when Death comes it puts an end to all things we have been pursuing here: Learning and Knowledge (which are the best things in this World) will then avail nothing; no∣thing but an Interest in Christ is then of any worth. One reading to some of his Fellow-prisoners Jer. 42. 12. I will shew mercy unto you, that he may have mercy upon you, and cause you to return to your own Land; he said, Yes, we shall, but not in this World I am perswaded. September the 29th. at Night, after he heard he must Dye the next Morning, he was exceedingly Composed and Chearful, expressing his satisfaction in the Will of God: The next Morning he was still more spiritual and chearful, discovering a very sweet sere∣nity of Mind in all that he said and did: Whilst he was wait∣ing for the Sheriff, reading the Scriptures, Meditating, and Con∣versing with those about him of Divine things, amongst other things, he said, I have heard much of the Glory of Heaven, but I am now going to behold it, and to understand what it is. Being desired to Disguise himself to attempt an Escape, he said, No, I cannot tell how to disturb my self about it, and methinks it is not my business, now I have other things to take up my thoughts; if God saw good to deliver

me, he would open some other door; but seeing he has not, it is more for the honour of his Name we should dye, and so be it. One saying to him that most of the Apostles dyed a violent Death, he re∣plyed▪ Nay, a greater than the Apostles, our Lord himself dyed, not only a shameful, but a painful Death: He further said, This manner of Death hath been the most terrible thing in the World to my thoughts, but I bless God, now I am neither afraid nor ashamed to dye. He said, The parting with my Friends, and their grief for me, is my greatest diffi∣culty; but it will be but for a very short time, and we shall meet again in endless Joys, where my dear Father is already enter'd, him shall I presently joyfully meet: Then musing with himself a while, he with an extraordinary seriousness sung these two Verses of one of Herbert's Poems,

Death is still working like a Mole, Digging my Grave at each remove, Let Grace work so on my Soul, Drop from above.

Oh come! for thou dost know the way, Or if to me thou wilt not move, Remove me where I need not say Drop from above.

He then read the 53^d of Isaiah, and said, he had heard many blessed Sermons from that Chapter, especially from the 16th. Verse, All we like sheep have gone astray, we have turned every one to his own way, but the Lord hath laid on him the Iniquity of us all; seeming to intimate some Impress made on his Soul from them, but was interrupted, then he said, Christ is all. When the Sheriff came, he had the same chearfulness and serenity of Mind in taking leave of his Friends, and in the Sledge, which seem∣ed to increase to the last, (as those present have affirmed;) joyning in Prayer, and in singing a Psalm with great appear∣ance of Comfort and Joy in his Countenance, insomuch that some of his Enemies (that had before Censured his chearfulness for unthoughtfulness of his Danger, and therefore expected to see him much surprized,) now professed they were greatly Asto∣nish'd, to see such a Young Man leave the World, and go through Death as he did.

The last Words of Coll. Richard Rumball, with remarks of what past at his Tryal in Edinburgh, Jan. 26. 1685.

ABout Eleven of the Clock he was brought from the Castle to the Justices Court, in a great Chair, upon a Man's Back, where at first he was asked some few Questions, most of which he answered by silence; at last he said, He did humbly conceive it was not necessary for him to add to his own Accusation, since he was not ignorant they had enough already to do his business, therefore did not desire to fret his Conscience at that time with an∣swering Questions; after which his Libel being read, the Court proceeded in usual manner, first asking him if he had any thing to say for himself before the Jury closed: His Answer was, He owned it all, saving that part of having designed the King's Death; and he prayed all present to believe on the word of a Dying Man, he never directly nor indirectly intended such a Villany, that he abhorred the thoughts of it; and that he blessed God he had the reputation in the World, that he knew none had the impudency as to ask him the Question; and that he abhorred the thoughts of such an Action, and he hoped all good People would believe this, which was the only way he had left to clear himself, and he was sure that this Truth would once be made manifest to all Men. He was again asked if he had any Excep∣tions against the Jury? he answered, No, but wished them to do as God and their Consciences directed them: They having withdrawn, returned their Verdict in half an hours time, and brought him in Guilty; the Sentence following for him,

To be taken from that to the next Room, and from thence to be drawn in a Hurdle, between Two and Four of the Clock, to the Cross of Edinburgh, the Place of Execution, and there to be Hanged, Drawn, and Quartered.

He received the Sentence with a devout Courage and Chearfulness. After he was delivered in∣to the Town-Magistrate's hands, they brought to him two Di∣vines, to offer to him their Assistance upon the Castle, which he altogether refused, telling them, If they had any good Wishes for him, they should spend them in their Closets, and leave him now to seek God in his own way: He had several Offers of the same kind of others, which he put off in the same manner. He was most

serious and servent in Prayer, the few hours he lived, as was observed by several who were present all the while. The hour being come, he was brought to the Place of Execution, where he saluted the People on all sides of the Castle; and after ha∣ving refreshed himself with a Cordial out of his Pocket, caused himself to be supported by two Men, and spake to the People in these words.

Gentlemen and Brethren,

It is appointed for all Men that come into the World once to die, after Death to Judgment; and since Death is a debt that all of us must pay, it is but matter of small moment what way it be done; and seeing the Lord is pleased in this manner to take me to himself, I confess something hard to Flesh and Blood, but blessed be his Name who hath made me not only Willing, but Thankful, for honouring me, to lay down that Life he gave me for his Cause; in the which, were every Hair on this Head and Beard of mine a Life, I would joyfully Sacrifice them for it, as I do this day. And Providence having brought me hither, I think it most necessary to clear my self of some asper∣sions laid on my Name, that I should have had so horrid an Intention of destroying the King and his Brother: (Saying over again what he had said before to the Justices.) It was al∣so said on my Name that I was Anti-monarchical; it was ever my Thoughts that Kingly Government was the best of all, justly executed, I mean such as by our ancient Law, viz. a King and Free-Parliament; the King having, as I conceive, Power enough to make him great, the People also so much Property▪ as to make them Happy, they being as it were Con∣tracted to one another, and who will deny me that this is the just constituted Government of our Nation; how absur'd is it then for Men of sense to maintain, that though the one part of this Contract breaketh all Conditions, the other should be obliged to perform their part: No, this Error is contra∣ry to the Law of God, the Law of Nations, and the Law of Reason: But as Pride hath been the Bait the Devil hath catch∣ed the most by, ever since the Creation, so it continues to this day with us. It was Pride that caused our first Parents to fall from that blessed Estate in which they were Created, they

aiming to be higher and wiser than God allowed, which brought the everlasting Curse on them and their Posterity for ever: It was Pride that caused God to drown the old World: It was Nimrod's Pride in building Babel, that caused that heavy Curse, the division of Languages, to be spread among us at this day; one of the greatest Afflictions the People of God groan under, that there should be so many divisions during their Pil∣grimage here; but this is their Comfort, that the day draw∣eth near, whereas there is but one Shepherd, there shall be but one Sheep-fold: It was therefore the defence of this Party in their just Rights and Liberties: At this they rattled the Drums, to which he said, They need not trouble themselves, for he should say no more of his Mind on that subject, seeing they were so un∣generous, as to interrupt a dying Man; only to assure the Peo∣ple that he adhered to the true Protestant Religion, detesting the erroneous superstition of many that call themselves so: But I dye this day in the defence of the ancient Laws and Liberties of our Nation; and though God, for reasons best known to himself, hath not seen fit to honour us, to make us the Instruments for the deli∣verance of his People, yet as I have lived, so I dye in the Faith, that he will spedily arise for the deliverance of his Church and People, which I desire all of you to prepare for; thô with grief I may say, this is a deluded generation, vailed with Ignorance, and althô Po∣pery and Slavery be riding in upon them, yet they do not per∣ceive it; thô I am sure there was none marked of God above ano∣ther; for none came into the World with a Sadle on his Back, neither booted and spurr'd to ride in: Not but that I am well sa∣tisfied that God hath wisely ordered different Stations for Men in this World, as I have already said, Kings having so much Pow∣er as to make them great, and People as to make them happy: And to conclude▪ I shall only add my wishes for all Mens Salva∣tion, who were Created for that end.

After ending these Words, he Prayed most fervently about three quarters of an Hour, freely Forgiving all Men, even his greatest Enemies, begging most earnestly the deliverance of Sion, particularly Praying for London, Edinburgh, and Dublin, from which the streams run that rule God's People in the three Nations: Being asked some hours before his Execution, if he thought not his Sentence dreadful? he answered, He wished he had a Limb for every Town in Christendom.

Mr. Ansley's Last Letter.

SIR,

I Now send you my last Farewel, being going to lay down my Life with Joy, and assurance of Life Eternal; for which, Blessed be the Holy one of Israel, who never leavs nor forsakes those that put their trust in Him, I give you many Thanks for your Kindness to me, the Lord make it up to you, by pouring upon you a Dayly Portion of his most holy Spirit, and Deliver you from your Bonds. My Eenmies have done what they could to Afflict this Body, but Blessed be the most High, who has given me Strength, Patience, and Courage to Endure all they can lay upon me. The Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the Fellow∣ship of his Holy Spirit attend you; which is the Prayer of your Dying Friend, but Living Brother in Christ Jesus,

Abraham Ansley.

From Taunton-Castle, Sept. 21. 1685.

A HYMN, made by Mr. Joseph Tyler a little before His Execution.

O Lord, how Glorious is thy Grace, How wondrous large thy Love, At such a dreadful Time and Place, To such as Faithful prove.

If thou wilt have thy Glory henee, Tho shameful Deaths we Dye; We Bless Thee for thy Provedence, To all ETERNIT••.

Let the Spectators see thy Grace, In thy poor Servants Shine; Whilst we by Faith, behold thy Face, In that blest Son of Thine.

The Men our Bodies may abuse, Christ take our Souls to Rest; Till Thou bringest forth that Joyful News, You are my Fathers Blest.

Appear for those that plead thy Cause, Preserve them in thy Way; We own King Jesus and his Laws, And dare not but Obey.

Great God confound thy Cruel Foes, Let Babylon come down; Let Englands King be one of those, Shall Raze Her to the Ground.

Though Christ we yield our Souls to Thee, Accept us on his score▪ That where he is, there we may be, And Praise the evermore.

Mr. Sampson Lark's Letter to a Friend, just before his Execution,

MY Dear Friend, I am ready to be Offered, and the time of my Departure is at hand; I have through Grace fought a good Fight, have finished my course, have kept the Faih, and am in hopes of the Crown of Righteousness prepared for me, and all Gods Faithful ones; The experiences I have had of the promises; hath given me comfortable hopes that he will carry me to the full end of my Journey, with his Name, and that Truth of his, wich I have made Profession of▪ My great Crime is for my being a Preacher of the Gospel, and here I am to be made a Sa∣crafice,

where I have mostly Preached Christs Gospel. I think my Judges have devised this punishment for my hurt, but I trust God will turn it to my good; the great trouble I have, is for those good Hearts that I must leave behind me: But this is my com∣fort, knowing that all such as fear God, he will be a Father to them. My Dear Wife is greatly troubled, but through Mercy, much supported and something quieted; if any of you have op∣portunity to give her help; I hope you will do it; as for our con∣fessing our selves Guilty, it was expresly as to matter of Fact, and not of Form, and this I did with some freedom, and the rather because all my worthy Brethren that went before me took that way, and the many ways having been used to have a further Discovery, yet nothing of that kind by any but onely by Captain Jones; Since our Sentence some wretched-men hath been with us to draw from us a Confession of our being Rebels, that we might have their Absolution. I Bless God he has hitherto helped me to be Faithful, and I hope he will not leave me in the most need∣full time. I must Conclude, being ready to be called away; my Dear Love to all my Christian Friends, and especially those in the Goal; the Lord be with you all▪ Amen. Your Dying Friend, in hopes of Eternal Life, through Jesus Christ, Amen.

Sampson Larke.

From the House of my Blessed Bondage in Dorcester, Sept. 7th. 1685.

The Last Speech of the Lady Alicia Lisle.

GEntlemen, Friends and Neighbours, it may be expected that I should say something at my Death, and in order thereun∣unto I shall acquaint you, that my Birth and Education was both near this place, and that my Parents Instructed me in the Fear of God, and I now dye of the Reformed Protestant Religion; that if ever Popery should return into this Nation, it would be a ve∣ry great and severe Judgment, that I dye in expectation of the Pardon of all my Sins, and of acceptance with God the Father, by the imputed Righteousness of Jesus Christ, he being the End

of the Law for Righteousness to every one that believes; I thank God through Jesus Christ, that I do depart under the Blood of Sprinkling, which speaketh better things then that of Abel; God having made this Castisement an Ordinance to my Soul; I did once as little expect to come to this place on this occasion, as any Person in this place or Nation; therefore let all learn not to be high Minded, but fear▪ The Lord is a Soveraign, and will take what way he sees best to Glorifie himself in, and by his poor Crea∣tures; and I do humbly desire to submit to his Will, Praying to him▪ That I may possess my Soul in Patience. The Crime that was laid to my Charge, was for entertaining an Non-conformist-Minister and others in my House; the said Minister being Sworn to have been in the late Duke of Monmouths Army; but I have been told, that if I had denyed them, it would not at all have effected me; I have no excuse, but surprize and fear, which I be∣lieve my Jury must make use of to excuse their Verdict to the World. I have been also told, That the Court did use to be of Counsel for the Prisoner: but instead of Advice, I had Evi∣dence against me from thence; which though it were only by hear say, might possibly affect my Jury; my defence being but such, as might be expected from a weak Woman; but such as it was, I did not hear it Repeated again to the Jury; which as I have been informed, is usual in such cases: However, I forgive all the World, and therein all those that have done me wrong; and in particular, I forgive Colonel Penrudduck, although he told me, that he could have Taken these men before they came to my House; and I do likewise forgive him, who desired to be taken away from the Grand Jury to the Petty Jury, that he might be the more nearly concerned in my Death; as to what may be objected in reference to my Conviction, that I gave it under my hand, that I had Discoursed with Nelthrope; that could be no Evidence against me, being after my Conviction and Sentence: I do ac∣knowledge His Majesty's Favour in Revoking my Sentence; I pray God to preserve him, that he may long Raign in Mercy, as well as Justice; and that he may Raign in Peace; and that the Protestant Religion may flourish under him: I also return thanks to God and the Reverend Clergy, that assisted me in my Impri∣sonment.

ALICIA LISLE.

A Letter Writ by Mr. John Hicks, Oct. 5. the Day before his Death.

My Dear Nephew,

I Am yet in the Land of the Living, though in the Mouth of Death; I having been concern'd for you, next to my own Children before I die; I thought fit to write two or three Lines to you, as a Manifestation of my great Love to you: I earnest∣ly desire the Welfare of you here, and to Eternity hereafter, next to my own Wife and Children, you will want me when I am gone, but I hope the Lord will take care of you; make it your business to walk with him, to serve him faithfully; flee youth∣ful Lusts, and Remember your Creatour in the Days of your Youth; be deeply concern'd to have your Heart and Nature chang'd, and an interest in Christ secur'd unto you: Death comes sud∣denly, you know not when, where, nor how you shall die: Let time therefore be most precious to you; fill it up with Work and Duty; Live by Faith more than by Sense; and this will stand by you when you come to die: Seek the things which are above, and set your Affections upon them; have your Conver∣sation in Heaven, whilst you are upon Earth. When you see your Parents, give my dear Love to them and their Children; the Lord grant that we may meet in his Everlasting Kingdom: When you see any of your Cousins, give my dear Love to them, and be not asham'd of my Sufferings: I wrote last Saturday was a Seven-Night to my Brother George, but whether he is at London or Worcester, I know not; I wrote to him, to desire him to Pe∣tition the King, that some Favour and Mercy might be shewed me, if he thought fit: Things that are made to aggravate my Crime, I am clear from, as that I perswaded the Duke of M. to assume the Title of King at Taunton, when I was not there with him, nor in 13 days after he came into England, and that I rode too and fro in the West, to perswade People to go into his Army, when I was in the East, and came from thence to him

in the West; but my Nonconformity cuts me, and obstructs the Kings Mercy from being Extended to me, as I am told; but the Will of the Lord be done; the Life to come is infinitely bet∣ter than this: Many more things are laid to my charge, which I am no more guilty of than your self. If your Uncle be in Town, go speedily to him, and give him my Dear Love; I Pray for you, who am

Your most Affectio∣nate Ʋncle, J. H.

Octob. 5. 1684.

A Letter to his Wife, Sept. 23. 1684.

My Dearest Love,

I Hope you received a few Lines from me, by the way of London; once more I write to you, by our faithful and trusty Friend W. D. who hath been at Exon. If there be need for it, he knows many of my Dear and Faithful Friends there, who wish you would come and live among them; and if your Estate fail, I think it very adviseable so to do; I hope God will stand by you and defend you: My Dear, see me in God, as I must you. I must now bid adieu unto all Earthly and Worldly Comforts, and all the Pleasant and Delightful Objects of Sence. I bless God for all present Mercies and Comforts hitherto I have had; what will be after this day, I know not, but the Will of the Lord be done.

My Dear, be very cautious not to speak one Word, least it be wrested to wrong Sence, which may ruine you; I have not writ what I would of this Nature, take the Advice of Friends, and of what I send by our Friend. O let not the Everlasting Arms of God be with-drawn from you one Moment; and let him strengthen you with all Might, according to his Glorious Power, and to all Patience and Long-Suffering, with Joyfulness! Pray hard for Victory over Passion, and be much in private Closet-Prayer with God; and often read the Holy Bible, and

other good Books, the Lord continually guide, direct and counsel you. My dear, I return you a thousand thanks for all the Love you have shew'd me and my Children, and particu∣larly for the high and great Demonstration you have given there∣of in this day of my distress; I hope my Daughters will be as dutiful to you, and be as much concern'd for your comfort and welfare, as if you had travelled with them, and brought them into the World; God bless my Dear Little-Ones and them to∣gether, I shall dye their most Affectionate and Praying Father; God I hope will uphold, support, and comfort me at the last hour, and enable me to overcome the Temptations I shall vio∣lently be assaulted with before I Die: God by his Infinite and freest Mercies in Christ Jesus, Pardon all the neglect of Relative Duties, (which I have bitterly lamented and bewail'd before God, with all the Sins I am guilty of) for the sake of our Dearest Lord and Redeemer; the Lord make you grow in all Grace more than ever, and make this great Affliction so humbly Purifying and Spiritualizing to you as well as me, that it may work for us both, a far more Exceeding and Eternal Weight of Glory; let him take your Soul into his most dearest Embra∣ces, and lodge it in the Bosom of his Love here, and make us to meet in the full and Everlasting Fruition and Enjoyment of him hereafter; though it is dangerous for you to vindicate that I die for, yet be not too much cast down for it: I will say no more as to that. My hearty and affectionate Respects to all my Dear Friends; I need not name them; I hope to meet them, with your self, to inherit Eternal Life through the Merits of Christ's Death: Farewel my Dear, farewel in the Lord; until we meet to be Marry'd to him for ever; my Heart is as full of Love t•…•…e as it was the first day I Marry'd thee; and if God spar•…•…ife, it should have been as fully manifested until Death; therefore I rest,

Your most Affectionate and Endeared Husband, J. H.

Sept. 23. 1684.

Another Letter.

My Dearest Love,

I Received your Letter by Mr. Skinner; I Bless God, that you and my Babes are well; the Lord continue their Lives to be a Blessing and Comfort to you, and enable you to see them well Educated in the Fear of God; and when God takes me away, let him be a Husband to guide, direct, succour, comfort and sup∣port you, and to lodge your Soul in the Bosom of his Love; and let him be a Father to them, and their Portion for ever. Monday last my Brother went to London, to try what could be done for me; what the success will be, I know not; I desire the Lord eve∣ry day to prepare me for Death, and carry me above the Fear of it, by the discoveries of his everlasting love unto my Soul; and clearing up my Right and Title to everlasting Life; and by Seal∣ing up to me the Pardon of all my Sins, through the most preci∣ous Blood of Jesus Christ: Let us Pray hard and much for each other; when I leave this World, it shall be with Prayer for thee; if God give me life, how shall I study to be a comfort to thee, and to live up to my Marriage as well as Baptismal Cove∣nant to all my Friends? Tender my most affectionate Respects; I hope their Prayers will one way or other be heard for me; let the Almighty be your Protector, Supporter and Comforter: There be two Books I do recommend to you to read when you are retir'd, as well as in your family; Pierces Preparation for Death; and Foxes Redemption of Time: Now let our Souls meet toge∣ther in one most Blessed God, in our Dearest Jesus, and sweetest Saviour; let them clasp and cling about him, and be Sick for the love of him; and that we may meet to enjoy him fully to Eterni∣ty, and be satisfied with his Love for ever; a thousand Loves, if I had them, I would send to thee, next to my and 〈…〉〈…〉 Jesus, and the things that are Heavenly, Spiritual and 〈…〉〈…〉: I love thee; what I can spare for thee, is convey'd to thee and my Dear Children, from

Thy most Affectionate and Faithful Husband, and their most loving Father, J. H.

Another Letter.

My most Dear Love,

I Hope you have received my last once more, as a dead and living man (through difficulty) I write to you, though I yet do not know when nor where I shall dye, but expect Death every day; when that Message is brought to me, I hope, through the Grace and Strength of Christ, it will be no surprize to me; that neither my Lips, Flesh, nor Heart will tremble when I hear it; I know the cause for which I Suffer; God hath and has singled me out from many of my Brethren (which I never have been without some apprehensions of for above these 20 years) to lay down my Life; how far it is for his cause, will be judged at the last day; I bless God, who hath kept me from all Temptations to Conformity, though it has brought me to Ruine and Destruction in this World, it will be no fit Season for you to Vindicate that for which I am call'd to suffer, be silent, and leave it to God; I advise to all Pru∣dence in this case: have your own reserv'd thoughts, and let them concerning me, support and comfort you; if there never happen a time for you to Glory in my Sufferings, it will be here∣after; do you but walk with God (though through Prudence you must hold your Tongue) and be not asham'd you had such a Husband; I thank God that gave it me, whose Courage and Pub∣lick Spirit for the Protestant Religion, the Civil Liberties of his Country, even true English Liberties, hath in this Ignominious way, brought me to the Conclusion and End of my time; Mourn not, my Dear, as one without Hope, let the World know you have something from me, something from your self as a Christian, but ten thousand times more from God to comfort and support you; see Christ by an Eye of Faith, infinitely more lovely and beautiful than my self; let him be Married to your Soul; let him be the chiefest of ten thousand, and more dear and precious to you; it is not long we shall be separated, before we shall see one another in a Spiritual Enjoyment, separated from all Fleshly Pleasures and Delights, yet infinitely more sweet & satisfying to Immor∣tal Spirits, as you and I us'd to see Streams from the Fountaint

and the largest Streams in the Ocean; so let us see one another in God, the Ever-flowing and Over-flowing Fountain of all Good, the fathomless and boundless Ocean of Good; seek much the things which are above; live with your Affections; set upon them; and have your Conversation in Heaven, whilst you are upon Earth; I continue yet to Pray for you, as for my self, and shall continue to do it until I dye; in my last Prayers you shall be Interested with my Dear Babes, whom I hope God will take into Covenant with him, and number them among his Adopted Ones, and of that Incorruptible Inheritance which is in Heaven; I hope God will spare your Life to see them Educated, and guide and assist you therein, and theirs to be a Blessing and Comfort to you; consider your Condition is not single and alone, this Countrey affords a multitude of the like sad and deplorable Instances; let this make you more to possess your Soul with Patience and Humi∣lity, calmly and quietly to submit to the good Will of God—I have left a Paper behind me for you to Read, and our Friend can tell with what difficulty I Writ it, therefore must have many Defects and Imperfections, which must be over-look'd and mend∣ed; preserve the two Bibles for my Dear James and Betty: What shall I say more my Dearest? I must break off with my Heart full of Love to thee; and Subscribe my self,

Thy most Dear and Affectionate Hus∣band till Death, J. H.

Octob. 3d. 1684.

Mr. Josias Askew's Letter to his Father.

Honoured Father,

I Not having an Opportunity to make my Gratitude known to you, for all your Endeavours for the saving a poor, vain, perishing, and troublesome Life; and seeing it is all in vain, I would desire you both to acquiesce in the Will of God, and re∣joyce with me for this happy Day of my Departure from this

State of Pilgrimage, home to the Possession of those Heavenly Mansions, which my God and Father hath provided for me, in and thorough my Lord Jesus Christ: It is in him alone I put my Trust and Confidence, and therefore can boldly say, Who is he that Condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is ri∣sen again, and is set down at the Right Hand of God, making Intercession for all those that have a well-grounded Confidence in him. My time is but short, and by reason of Company I am disturbed; therefore I conclude with my last Breath, beging of God, that he would keep you constant in his Fear, in this day of great Temptation, and at last receive you to his Glory, where we shall once more Unite, in Praising; without Interrup∣tion or Distraction, World without End, Amen. Until which time, the Grace of God the Father, the Love of God the Son, the comfortable Refreshings of God the Holy Ghost, be with you, all yours, and the whole Israel of God, both now and for ever: Which is the Hearty Prayer of your Son,

Josias Askew.

Pray Remember me to all with Joy.

Another Letter to his Friend.

MADAM,

YOU have been a Partaker with me in my Troubles, I would also make you a Partaker with me in my Joys; seeing my Wedding Day is come, the Day of the Bridegroom is at Hand, and I am this Day to be stript of my Rags of Corruption, to be Cloathed upon with the White Robe of his Righteousness and Purity, and to be Married to my Husband, and to be given to the Embraces of my Lord Jesus Christ, for ever and ever.

Learn not to repine at the Holy Determination of an Infinite Wise God, but rest satisfied in his Will, knowing that he doth all things for the best to them that fear him; Weep not for me who am only changing this World of Temptation, of Troubles and Affliction: it hath pleased God to call me a little before you, but you must soon follow after; keep therefore, the Fear

of God before your Eyes, and then you will have cause to re∣joyce, and not to mourn, when at the time of Departure; you may have cause to say with me, I have run my Race, I have fi∣nished my Course, I have kept the Faith, henceforth is laid up for me a Crown of Glory which fadeth not away; which that you may be able to say, is the Hearty Prayer, of

Your Friend and Servant, Josias Askew.

The Account his Friend gives of him.

TO prevent your further Trouble in suing for a Pardon, I think it convenient to let you know, I do not question, but my Dear Cousin hath had his Pardon Sealed by the King of Kings, and is in Everlasting Blessedness, Singing Hallelujahs, Salvation, Glory and Honour to him that sits upon the Throne, and to the Lamb for ever and ever: For God did so carry him through to drink that bitter Cup, with so much Courage and Chearfulness to the last, as was to the Admiration of all Spe∣ctators, notwithstanding the terrible Sight he saw at the place of Suffering, and so vehemently, as he was tried by the Adver∣sary; yet it did not in the least dis-compose him or alter his Countenance, for he continued with a smiling Countenance to the last, and was transported above Measure: I want Words to express it; he was like one wrapt up in Heaven, with his Heart there, and his Eyes fixed thereon. I could wish you had been there, it would have driven away all cause of Sorrow from your Heart, and to see his Deportment, and hear the Gracious Words that proceeded out of his Mouth: He remembreth his Duty to you both, and left Pauls Blessing with you, Grace, Mer∣cy, and Peace; his Love to his Dear Sister; he desires her not to be troubled for him, for he hath made his Peace with God, and was assured he should go to Eternal Happiness; he would have Written more to you and to his Sister, but that he had so short a time after Sentence, that he wanted Opportunity; when he went out of Prison, he said, Gentlemen, Now I am going, and it is

the time I much longed for; I would not change with him that pas∣sed Sentence upon me, for a World. I was with him to the last, and seeing his Courage, did very much encourage me, though I never saw such a Sight with my Eyes.

Next followes many Excellent Hymns made by several Wor∣thy Persons that were Prisoners for the sake of Christ.

TRiumphing Songs with glorious Tongues, Let's offer unto him; That loved so to undergo The product of our Sin.

Leaving his Throne from Heaven came down, Sinners for to Redeem From Hell and Wrath and second death, Christ underwent great pain.

His side was gor'd, his hands was bor'd His feet was nailed down, And all was for the Redemption Of sinful wicked Man.

O how straitned, prest and pained Was Christ to be Baptized, And in Affliction to be plunged, His Body Sacrificed.

Let God be blest for Jesus Christ Who is our splendid King, Hallelujahs sweet with spirit meet, High praises to him sing.

For Blood, for Wounds▪ for Love, whose bounds Extended unto all: For scoffs and smites, for jeers, for flouts Which upon Christ did fall.

Now Christ haste unto us again Thy Scepter for to sway, Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done. Come Jesus come away.

With glorious bands and shining trance Of Angels in the Skye, Which forth shall sing Triumphing Songs With sweet Hallelujah.

Set up thy standard, and prepare War against Babylon: For her destruction draweth near. As here we read her doom.

Lord blow the Trumpet, and awake The Nations round about, Stir up the spirit of the Meeds, Which did old Babel rout.

For Babel must drink of that Cup Which Sion deep did wound, Jerusalem did first begin, And so the Cup goes round▪

But Babel must drink up the dregs Of Wrath which do remain, With which no mixture she shall have To mitigate her pain.

For 'tis the vengeance of our God, And of his Temple too, The vials that fill up his Wrath, The three last Trumpets wo.

When Jacob as a battel AX▪ In great Jehovah's hand, Shall break down all, those Mountains tall, That in his way do stand.

O then let us Rejoyce, because The time appointed is, That Babel shall be seen to fall, And Sion shine in Bliss.

Our Lord draws near, as doth appear By Signs by him fore-told; Then Virgins come, meet your Bridegroom, His Wonderous Works behold.

The Night grows dark, be still and hark What is the Bridegrooms Voice; That when the Cry, comes swiftly by, It may your Hearts rejoyce.

Your Light grows dim, arise and trim Your Lamps from all their Soyl; And see your Light shines clear and bright, Supply'd with Gospel-Oyl.

Some Virgins now do Sleepy grow; And don't their Vessels fill; Nor fear a want, when Oyl grows scant, And none be found to sell.

And at Mid-night, all in a Fright, Oyl-shops they cannot find; And none will spare, out of his share, And so they are left behind.

Thus Foolish sleep, in dangers deep, And think their Lord delays; But his own Bride, hath surely spide Some of his Glorious Rayes;

And will not sleep, unless she keep Her Watch-lights burning still, With Oyl in store, layd up therefore, Let him come when he will.

And though her Garments had some rents, And spots not perfect white; Yet they'll be cleans'd, or quickly chang'd For Rayments of Delight.

With her Bridegroom, she will find room In Chambers of his Love; When the Unwise, he will despise, And them from him remove.

THE Earl of Argyle's LAST SPEECH, June the 30^th. 1685.

JOB tells us, Man that is born of a Woman, is of few Dayes, and full of Trouble; and I am a clear Instance of it. I shall not now say any thing of my Sentence, or Escape about three Years and a half agoe; nor of my Return, lest I may thereby give Offence, or be tedious: Only being to end my dayes in your Presence, I shall, as some of my last Words, assert the Truth of the matter of Fact, and the Sincerity of my Intentions, and Pro∣fessions that are Published.

That which I intend mainly now to say, is, To express my humble and (I thank God) chearful Submission to his Divine Will; and my willingness to Forgive all men, even my Enemies; and I am heartily well satisfied there is no more Blood spilt, and I shall wish the Stream thereof may stop at me: And that (if it please God) to say, as to Zerubbabel, Zech. 4. 6. Not by might, nor by Power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of Hosts.

I know Afflictions spring not out of the dust: God did wonderfully Deliver and Provide for me, and has now by his special Providence brought me to this Place; and I hope none will either insult, or be stumbled at it, seeing they ought not; for

God Almighty does all things well, for good and holy Ends, though we do not always understand it. Love and Hatred is not known by what is before us, Eccles. 9. 1. & 8. 11, 12. 13.

Afflictions are not only foretold, but promised to Christians; and are not only tollerable, but desirable.

We ought to have a deep Reverence and Fear of God's dis∣pleasure; but withal, a firm Hope and Dependance on him for a blessed Issue, in compliance with his Will; for God cha∣stens his own to Refine them, and not to ruine them, whatever the World may think: Heb. 12. 3. to 12. Prov. 3. 11, 12. 2 Tim. 1. 8. 2 Tim. 2. 11. 12. Mat. 10▪ 18, to 40. Mat. 16. 24. to 28.

We are to imitate our Saviour in his Sufferings, as 1 Pet. 2 23. and 1 Pet. 4. 16, to 20.

We are neither to despise our Afflictions, nor faint under them; both are extreams.

We are not to suffer our Spirits to be exasperated against the Instruments of our trouble; for the same Affliction may be an effect of their Passion, and yet sent by God to punish us for Sin: Thô it is a Comfort when we may say to them, with David, Psal. 59. 3. Not for my Transgression, nor for my sin, O Lord.

Nor are we, by fraudulent Pusillanimous Compliances in wic∣ked Courses, to bring Sin upon our selves: Faint Hearts are or∣dinarily False Hearts; choosing Sin rather than Sufferings, and a short Life with Eternal Death, before Temporal Death and a Crown of Glory: Such seeking to Save a Little, Loses All; and God readily hardens them to proceed to their own Destruction. How many, like Hazael, 2 King. 8. 13. run to Excesses they ne∣ver thought they were capable of! Let Rulers and others read seriously, and weigh, Prov. 1. 10, to 20. 2 Chron. 28. 6, to 17. Prov. 24. 11, 12. and Prov. 28. 10. and avoid what is bad, and follow what is good.

For me, I hope by God s strength to joyn with Job, Chap. 13. 15. and the Psalmist, Psal. 22. 4. and 167. and shall Pray, as Psal. 74. 19, to 24. and Psal. 122. 6, to 9. and Luk. 1. 74, 75. and shall Hope, as Psal. 94. 14, 15.

I do freely forgive all that directly or indirectly have been the cause of my being brought to this place, first or last; and I pray

God Forgive them. I pray God send Truth and Peace in these Three Kingdoms; and continue and increase the glorious Light of the Gospel, and restrain the Spirit of Prophanity, Atheism, Superstition, Popery, and Persecution; and Restore All that have back-slidden from the Purity of their Life, or Principles; and Bless his whole People with all blessings, Spiritual and Tempo∣ral, and put an end to their present Trials.

And I intreat all People to Forgive me wherein I have Offend∣ed, and to concurr with me to Pray, That the great, good, and merciful God, would sanctifie my present Lot, and for Jesus Christ his sake Pardon all my Sins, and receive me to his Ever∣lasting Glory.

It is suggested to me, that I have said nothing of the Royal Family; and it remembers me, that before the Justices at my Trial about the Test, I said, that at my Death I would Pray, That there should never want one of the Royal Family to be a Defender of the True, Ancient, Apostolick, Catholick, Prote∣stant Faith; which I do now: And that GOD would enlighten and forgive all of them that are either luke-warm, or have shrunk from the Profession of it. And in all Events, I pray God may provide for the Security of his Church, that Antichrist, nor the Gates of Hell may never prevail against it.

The HUMBLE PETITION OF THE WIDDOWS AND FATHERLESS CHIDREN IN THE West of England, (TO BE) Presented to this present Convention.

WE, to the Number of a Thousand and more, Widdows and Fatherless Children, of the Counties of Dorset, Somerset, and Devon, our dear Husbands and tender Fathers having been so Tyran∣nously Butcher'd, and some Transported, our Estates sold from us, and our Inheritance cut off by the

severe and harsh Sentence of George Lord Jefferies, now we understand in the Tower of London a Pri∣soner, who has lately, we hear, endeavoured to ex∣cuse himself from those Tyrannical and Illegal Sen∣tences, by laying it on Information by some Gen∣tlemen, who are known to us to be good Chri∣stians, true Protestants and English-men. We your poor Petititioners, many hundreds of us, on our Knees have begg'd Mercy for our dear Husbands and tender Parents, from his Cruel Hands, but his thirst for Blood was so great, and his Barbarism so Cruel, that instead of granting Mercy for some, which were made appear to be Innocent, and Pe∣titioned for by the flower of the Gentry of the said Counties, he immediately Executed; and so barbarously, that a very good Gentlevvoman at Dorchester, begging on her Knees the Life of a worthy Gentleman, to Marry him, and make him her Husband, this vile Wretch not having com∣mon Civility with him, and laying aside that Ho∣nour and Respect due to a Person of her worth, told her, Come, I know your meaning, some part of your Petition I will grant, which shall be that after he is Hanged and Quartered, you shall have that Member you best like when living, and so I will give Orders to the Sheriff: These, with many hundred more Ty∣rannical

Acts are ready to be made appear in the said Counties, by honest and credible Persons, and therefore your Petitioners desire, that the said George Jefferies, late Lord Chancellour, the Vilest of Men, may be brought down to the Counties aforesaid, where we the good Women in the West shall be glad to see him; and give him another manner of Welcome than he had there three Years since.

And your Petitioners shall ever Pray, &c.

FINIS.