The Royalist reform'd or Considerations of advice, to gentlemen, divines, lawyers.: Digested into three chapters. VVherein their former mistakes are examined, and their duties of obedience, unto the present authority, succinctly held forth as rationall, and necessary. / By Albertus Warren, Gent.

CHAP. I Respecting Gentlemen

I Have been as much beholding either to ancient riches, learning, valor, or the like uncertain seed of Heraldry, as most men. & am thereby obliged to a special regard of gentlemen; and gentries reputation: your exception (Gent.) is the less against me, yet I know neither birth, field valour, Ecclesiastick imployments, profession in the Municipiall lawes of Eng∣land, either in a Theoretick or practicall way, are suffici∣ent to maintain a stock of vertue and discretion, but the variety of these qualifications forces me (who have little logicall art) to use some rude Method in my intended re∣flections, in order to each respective qualification I deale withall, beginning with those who stand so much upon their right of respect by extraction or birth.

Vnto such it is not denyed, but that the vertue of their Ancestors hath of due cut out great respect, yet such is that regard, as must take its collaterall prop also up∣on, and from secondary endowments, adding lustie to the remote cause; and whereof your selves (Gent.) must be propper Masters; otherwise empty pretensions of bloud-worthiness are idle, and indeed render the pretenders ridi∣culous, if not more conspicuously sordid.

No Rant of breeding, as by most understood and confy∣ned, either to a good pronuntiation of some forrein tonges behaviour with ladyes, postures artificiall of defence or the like (most usesull for all Gent. in due place) can with me be ever able to cancell the generall prejudice taken up against you, for doting to much upon those external garbs

and modes, while yet, the study of circumstances, of men and times is so far neglected by you: while no discreet and religious observing survey is made of Gods extraor∣dinary actings in these dayes, neither of the height of Agents and Patients by Strange (to us) counterworkings.

Many of you mark not the rising and falls of men, Popu∣lar, Worldly, Wise, ayming at a Reformation of their owne, others at Gods, yet miserably in the pursuit thereof, clog'd with Carnall passionate Interests.

But I descerne many reasons (as they seeme) deterring you from making a severe disquisition of contingences (whose neglect is follye's Nurse) and these are only specious glosses, partly colourd, and set out by rigid Episcopall men, partly upon feares of I know not what losse of Honor and Re∣spect are they begotten; but much upon an hurtfull fancy (grounded yet upon that Episcopall Anvill) of the indispen∣sible necessity of Monarchy, which many foolishly deny to have been at all qualified (but by meere grace of the Mo∣narch) in this or any other Nation, looking into the Iuda∣ick History (undesigneable to ours, or any peoples regula∣tion, but the Jewes) for all such strained Maximes, where∣with they most vainly abuse themselves and you. The wisdome of this age hath sufficiently to intelligent men, held forth the fallacie of those impertinent disputes.

That there hath been, ever will be, in all ages, severall specifick notions of rule, in every Kingdome almost, several sorts of Governours, is evident, by concessions of all Hysto∣ries sacred, and prophane, this to make good, neither mood or figure wanteth.

Who, without high presumption dares aske why God (for secret reasons in his counsell) hath suffered heere a translation of legislative supreme power into new hands? this is in men, language, Alternacye of Providence in Divine Speech; It is his pleasure.

It is, in my judgement, a notorious peece of Foolery for any man to aske, by what right of Iustice the Hollander shak't of their Vsurper most fortunatly; his present quiet

excercise of Religion, Peace, Riches, and all earthly happi∣nesse answers it.

The Gent. of England loose themselves in being too credulously concluded by other mens Doctrines; Examples teach better then cold Logick, Persons now a dayes are most to be stedied.

Divide this Kingdome with your Eyes, and the Spawne of distracting Interest, either in Court, or Church, will ap∣peare to have had to great an influence in generating Gentlemens extremities. In my retired thoughts, I have often admired, this Nation could so long endure the hor∣rible mischiefes, that little (now headlesse) Bishop) by holding the Heart, and Eare of a King over us, brought to passe: his Beagles are good at cold hunting, but my advice unto you all is, (tendring herein your morall and Religious safety) that hereafter you do manage your con∣sciences, and Interests (planted by God) like men and Gentlemen, that you do more narrowly look into their designes, who have thus captivated your understandings; see whether they and others, do not drive on their interests against God's designe, and how unhappily they have inga∣ged many of you into desperate attempts, losse of Estates, Priviledges, Freedome &c. nay and many times driving on the torrent of youthfull heat, into an unreasonable willfull pertinacie in apparent impossibilities, ever since this Parlia∣ment sat. I wish it were not so. But I perceive the de∣vices those Clergy creatures have to insnare you are diverse, as the manner of their contrivances, for every one will not be catch't with the same baite, there is amongst them a deboyst fort of men, not much learned, yet able enough, upon every emergencie, at a Taverre, to shew all that is in them, by a kinde of unprofitable eloquence, these spend their time and precious howers in composing premeditated scurrilous Poems, or at least sputter out (between Hawke and Buzzard) a few extemporary Satyricall Rymes upon the visible Authoritie of the Nation, the tickling foolery of which, inviteth Gentlemen to begge a Copy, sound in

their Fobbs by the next Officer at midnight, to their great hazard and disquiet. If these black Coates be not Poeti∣cal, they are great Newes-Mongers, But it's ten to one, if one word they utter, among a thousand, be true, for these Gentlemen must pay reckonings.

I have often wondred at them, that they are so open in their discourses, but upon severer sence, I finde the reason why they are not reserved, is, that Gallants may (at their first compellation) understand their humours, who have nothing to loose, and they had rather goe slinking up and downe London in thredbare Coates, glorying in their suf∣ferings forsooth, then (temperately giving way to the premissive providence of Heaven in alteration of Govern∣ment civill) teach a Schoole, or upon a new score, goe Preach Gods Word, remitting State matters and Archi∣techtonick administrations to States men, their ordinary is a non entity, they are at liberty. Of their dividing privat tur∣bulent heads, I wish honest Gentlemen to be ware, for a∣voydance of their poysonous instillations, I would have it well weighed.

• 1. That is not materiall to Salvation, what government Civill a man lives under.
• 2. That it is not yet discovered, what Church govern∣ment is of Divine right.
• 3. That heroicall vertues are further'd mere (not hin∣derd) under a Democraticall Government then under a Monarchicall.

There is no need why I should (others have said so fully already) make a candid exposure of the undoubted truth of the two former assertions. But the consideration of the latter third position: viz. That Heroical vertues will thrive, and may be exercis'd better in a Democraticall, then a Monarchicall dispensation, will in a Domestick way be pertinent, towards the leading you out of that erroneus sup∣position mentioned before, among the causes of the the de∣terrence, and keeping so great a distance from searching into the reason of things, and present condiscention to Au∣thority,

scilicet. That fear of Honors losse from that cause, lesse doubt, I say, deterring Gentlemen from suffering qui∣etly (as Heavens pleasure) the immediate transacti∣ons of Publique trust, not in their Powers to a∣void,

If it delight your spirits to pry into such rudiments, either of Theology, or Law Municipall, of this Kingdome, as lead Men instrumentally to honours, and places of trust in this Kingdome; It will appear in reason, that men under a Democratick or Sanatory rule, shall not, will not be wholly at the Devotion of a Prince, or Tyrant, capacitated or im∣powred to throw them down causelessely from their deser∣ved honourable trust at pleasure, so that in such places of publick imployment, men may (under Democracy) do ju∣stice more boldly, and discover to the world, upon every opportunity, their gifts of vnawed nature (not insisting upon though very considerable) that under Democracy or State-government, offices publick will not in probabili∣ty be often referred to Deputies, as they usually have been, partly by reason of hability presumed for the future to be in future Officers, they being eligible by desert, not Aulicall favour, and especially regarding how all things will (as in their carriages of such places) be laid forth, and subjected to general and publique question, when as a fixt, standing po∣wer for appeales, in cases of injustice, wil be existent, for punishing offences starting up, for which no law was, or could be written: a great defect in Monarchie it was, where Lawes, respecting general equity suffered damnable mis∣chiefs in particular.

What therefore can be greater, or more pregnant incou∣ragement to a Religious, active noble mind, then to breath in such a Common wealth, (may ours prove so) where a Gappe is not only set open, for every ingenuous spirit, by Vertues stairs, to climbe up Honors Temple; but also a contrivance laid, that Envy, malice, ambition, covetousnes, or the like, shall notably be stated of, in a Prudentiall way, from tumbling him down from those sweet turrets of repu∣tation

and trust; unlesse those Cardinall Vices, or their friends, be able first to bring in all the Studds, and groundcels of the Mansion or Manor house, (which must be rare) joyntly together, or the major part of them, into a conspiracy against vertue, a conjunction of difficul∣ty that must needs be, and very unfortunate; for doubtlesse, a Community (as hath been often intimated) cannot be so easily misled, neither so frequently defect from discretion, as the private Judgment or passion, of one individuall Nu∣mericall person.

Thus farre I have already endeavoured succinctly a pre∣occupation of your preiudice. (Fellow Gentlemen) who mind something higher then an horse, or dogge, your mi∣stresses, or recreation at Tennis or a Bowling alley; for it is your good I principally intend hereby. Give me leave be∣fore I passe any further, to take a lttle pitty on such others (whose heads are Synechdochcially soft) for quietnesse sake, for they are affraid high shoe's will sit above them, where∣in I referre (with reverence) also unto the understanding conteurplative Gent. (then whom I have none more hap∣py in this world) In order whereunto, as to a possibility or probability of extenuating that respect and honor, (where∣with born Gent. are already invested) under a State-govern∣ment (if Heaven will have it so) it is not greatly to be sus∣pected in reason; For as most men either are gentlemen or would be so, and one main reason, as may be supposed, why the Lineall gentlemen (not of the first, second, or third head (these are things much look't into by many I promise you) but of a long series in Herauldry, were no better estee∣med in Regal times, was, because Honor lay then radical∣ly in Kings of this Nation, it dwelt in their naturall, not Politique capacity, yet was it so corruptly shed in hands of subordinate Officers, for dispensation of it, that any man might be made a gentleman for money, mony would make a man a Knight though no gentleman; but if a Parliament be the supreme Judicatory of the Nation, though as you see now abstracted from Kings, actually impowred heretofore

by a King; If I say you grant or but admit them (as who can deny that) Nomotheticall at present, questionlesse, they are capacitated to give, and create honours, as well as laws, they may and will grant honors, defer rewards for services Civil and Martiall; And in all likelyhood, they will be pru∣dent in foreseeing, That as accessions of honor, or creation thereof, are great incentives to gallant Spirits, towards he∣roicall Vertues; so the too to frequent collation of titles, will render honor lesse desirable, lesse esteemed. Upon which it must necessarily follow, that ancient gentlemens honours, being already their own, and other mens acquira∣ble only upon such extraordinary presumptions, the latter will not exceedingly multiply, their Lineall splendor will shine more uncontroulably, without numerous Rivalry, or Competition,

And without question, in such governments, where pre∣serments will be gainable by desert (presuming it for the su∣ture so in our State) Learning is like enough to flourish, (though som lazie functions and vast misimployed proventi∣ons be dissipated) for as much as this obstruction will be canceld.

Quorum virtutibus obstat res augusta Domi, when to be borne of honest, but poore Parents, shall not ob∣scure those excellencies (under a Cottage, better beseeming a Court) bestowed by the God of. Nature not in vaine, when money, or favor of freinds shall not wholly prevaile, for investing in places of trust undeserving men, where, vertue shall not wait upon persons. (The bane of all States) which indeed was our case under Regal government, where, prerogatives, priviledges, and exemptions shall not nurse up in justice or Tyranny. Learning will encrease in such a Kingdome, where, a man may get a fortune by his learning, sooner then by his friends, Priviledges and exemptions are not friends, but Enemies to the Muses, let men be what Schollers they will, without judgement, they are un∣fit for the Ministry, or the State. Nothing is more hurt∣full to a free People then particular exemptions from ge∣nerall

Lawes, then Royall or Subject prerogatives, then Regall non obstantes, reserved in grants formerly, but the present visible Authority hath well curtayl'd those in∣conveniences in their extention, by subjecting all men generally to Law, none of the least happinesses to a Nati∣on, I assure you. But I return to my discoveries premised, and the instant hinderances of Gentlemens abhorrence from dutie that Jealousie of Honors losse, being remo∣ved, and the contrary cleared conseqnently, as I hope in naturall reason.

There starts up next, a second sort of Ecclesiastiacall per∣sons, who pretend to know much, mightily oppugning your condiscention to Authority, and subscription to that power, under which God hath plac't us all, they are Pres∣biterian Divines, that will hand over head, have such formes of externall discipline, and impulsions upon ten∣der consciences fixt, or else endeavour they will, a con∣fusion of all civill society and corporate strength of this Nation, by talking up, and elevating their humane in∣ventions under Seraphick notions of Christs government, these will not suffer you like wary wise men, to sit under your owne Vines, sleep in whole skinnes, while Martiall men trye the quarrell, I feare they drive on an Episco∣pall designe (though pretenders to a pious Reformation) beware of them, at present, let it suffice, they are no fit advisers of you unto whom afterwards also in a more sea∣sonable and methodicall place, I shall more fully re∣monstrate their dutie!

Amongst other causes of gentlemens unhapy pertinacy, and stubbornesse, I find, That a conceipt of a certein New sin called falling or defection from Principles, carryed forth in discourse by Parsons, and made fellowes, from one Ta∣vern to another, mainly hinders their condiscention, and as conscious of such appostacy, I have by ignorant preten∣ders been often taxed; the meaning is, that because a man was once wedg'd up with an implicite faith, belie∣ving what some grave hobby horses said, viz, a King is

above all Law; Bishops are of divine institution, The Lawes of England are so exact, as they need no Reformation &c. I may not forsooth upon more light intervention of better rea∣son, conviction of conscience or judgment, unhalter my self (so likewise others) from those paradoxes, for fear of being sub∣jected to the scandall of falling from principles. This hu∣mor of perseverance in misguided reason, is so ridiculous, and yet withall so prevalent, in the soft braines of some Gent. that I have admir'd to heare it objected, much lesse brought forth as Categoricall, in setling vain constancy; because once a fool therefore ever a fool.

Neither am I ignorant that many of you of good capacity and tempers, are extreamly culpable, upon another ground, though seemingly more politick, yet indeed altogether as un∣reasonable in Christian consideration, you will not stoop one tittle unto those mighty reflections of Scripture, and reason commanding you (under payn of being accounted worthily some of Paul's infidels, in not providing for your families in things indifferent) to concurre.

Gentlemen bluster at Authorities indictions, discover their dissafections, drink healths, making themselves lyable to e∣very Tapsters and Chamberlains malice, sometimes against their own sence; say as the Companie saith, abundantly fear∣full in all things; least the world should occasionally think, they are fallen from principles. And why is all this tepid foo∣lery in these wiser ones, think you? it is, for that having once maintained such or such a tenet, it being notorious they were of such a Faith, they will not be so ingenuous, as to confesse an errour as men. Augustine was of another mind in his re∣tractions; and, had they bin so religiously politique, their Fynes happily had been more favourable. I perswade no man against his Conscience; but I say, unreasonable stubborn∣nesse in matters of a midling indifferent nature, is no symp∣some of valour; or magnanimity Fitting a Gentlemans bree∣ding.

I have ever found old Grand Iury men (generally by country people supposed to know much very unfit to judge or direct a mans comportment, in these troublesome times, for as the old

saying is, wise at fifty or never, they being only knowing in such transactious as concerned Indictments, and the like County affaires, and many of them supposing Lawes are sa∣credly upon the matter unalterable, neither that their influ∣ence may be suspended, upon some exigence, where Salus Populi comes in question, yet the manner is, to flye unto their gray Beards as an Oracle for Counsell, when a new Or∣dnance of Parliament first appeares, wherein it cannot be a∣voyded, but sometimes, something must be lest to mens dis∣cretions, and election of parties, here Grand lurors are at a stand, for the more any man is used to Formes, the lesse is he able to judge of an Emergent.

But above all others, meere Schollers would be avoyded by Gentlemen in point of consultation of the times, for they are only skilled in Contemplation, and the chiefe books about governments, were written in old darke times when Tyrants were the only Kings, and doubtlesse, people had not that vi∣vacity of understanding what it is, to be envasseled unto des∣poticall Arbitrary powers, in those dayes, wherefore how is it likely, that Academick men, tuter'd up by such Masters as the Vniversity afforded, (Apes only to those books) whose interest, and dependancyes were linkt to the Royall Seat, and who were not preferrable, unlesse of a temperament ready for as∣serting of a Monarchicall and Episcopall governments, should well direct you, I see not.

No man alive honors Learning more then my selfe, though the tennity of my capacity be such as can add no honor unto it. But temper and reason must guide the opinions of Ayrie termes, and Metaphysick notions, otherwise, how mischei∣vous they are, when falling upon eyther a vile, or towring Spirit, is ordinarily discerned, yet may it be lawfull to af∣firme, that Schoole learning poysons some constitutions. God is judge of my candid ambition in these Papers; So far pru∣dent I would have Gentlemen, as not in indifferent things, irrationally to strive against the Bent of Heavens decree, least by rash and needlesse extravagancies, you compell Authority unwillingly to make you get power, a thing truely I hope, not desired by Authority. How much wiser will it be for

Gentlemen to keep their heads above water in these present currents, since we are in England yet (thanks be to God) bounded with Lawes, where a well compos'd man, may en∣joy freedomes of conscience, ayre books and recreations. And although you judgements be not wholly satisfied of the law∣fullnesse of somethings, yet let reason teach us all; that how∣ever it happen, we are now in a most fair way for getting most wholesome Lawes established (though with alterations of some old ones) such I say, as that, if God will afterwards in his high discretion introduce a pristine forme of Government instead of the present existent, those after Ages will blush to abrogate, what so wholesome by present Law-givers have de∣creed.

Neither let the fancies of those men, who (too much affect∣ed, either with an over-weening apprehension of their owne skill or deserts, or precipitantly carried on by a secret divine power, for houlding forth Gods work, er'st prime instru∣ments in those actions wherein the Parliament hath so migh∣tely prevailed) bustled somewhat this Summer, but more dangerously the last before this, speaking perhaps somewhat beyond themselves in some particulars, (yet to wise to endea∣vour a parity in Civill Administrations) let not such I say, befoole you into groundlesse hopes nor cause yet in Gent. a further abhorrence from condiscending to Superiors: for of this be assured, If you act as common enemies, let the em∣bers of such impolitick drifts blaze when they will, that flame will beget a surer fixation and conjuncture against the com∣mon Enemy, and it shall prove a meere exhalation, but the matter of it, will light upon your heads.

The main pretensions of many now mingled, discontented and ignorant parties (beside the old royalists) are in effect, these. scilicet, That the present Authority at Westmin∣ster hath not done such and such acts, in pursuance of such premised forms and modes of actings in civill matters, Qui judex est Rei judex est causae: their own concessions will stiffle their own arguments, which grant the parliament su∣preme, and of power to give Lawes, and definitive sentence; what then if intentions in things purely morall, were premi∣sed,

might not such reason interveen, as might cause them (not to alter resolutions perhaps) but de mado, to traverse their own tempestive, and opportune votes, as tempestively, & opportunely, as prudentially as providentially (causes chang∣ing) and with as great reason, to retract as art. Their un∣happinesse lies only in this, that (enduring so great and mul∣tiplicious cares) they cannot possibly preamble every vote, or art at large, this may excuse them, since it must be granted by common indulgence, though few observe it, that the reason at large of few statutes can be prefaced, unlesse the preface or preamble, should swell beyond the Law; like the gates of Mindus, wide enough for the City to run out of it,

The nescience, or at least neglect of which knowledge; hath sometimes it is probable, exposed the houses Declarations to unworthy scandalls, because of the seeming diametricall oppositions in severall ordinances of one indiction to ano∣ther, and yet these are not opposite sences, nor contradictions in the adject, but an alternate effluxe of discretion in emer∣gencies of necessity requiring such refractive docision, adap∣ted both, upon rationall grounds; which alas is cleared unto us as lawfull in Domestick affairs, where alterings of resoluti∣ons was never (but as it may be circumstantiated) nakedly a sin, or accounted so, and in truth can no more be imputed as declivitie from right reason (or understood as inconstancy, then when a man shall say, he will ride to London such a day (perfining unto himself his end in that journey) when in the mean time, by some intervening accident his end is atteyned, and journey to London stopt.

Vpon this discretion of alterration all humane laws depend; this is now very remarkable to my apprehension not so before; but I the rather now confesse it, because I think it most ingenu∣ous so to do, and heartily wish you the same light, be not asha∣med to make recognition of extrication from errors as to hea∣ven and Earth.

I am now (presupposing your discretion (Gent) that there may be chang of governments in Kingdoms, and that there is no necessity of an identicall government) come to shew you some thing in reason, why I think, Monarchy will cease here, advising still obviously as occasion happens.

Before I come to that, the Pragmatick Lawyer will draw me aside into admiration, who the better to bolster up his Diana, says, that the Priviledges and Prerogatives of Kingly Govern∣ment (which I know is also Gods Ordinance) is of indiscensi∣ble divine right, truly, no sound Theologist but will acknow∣ledge other formes also so to claim, but neither of them all of an indispensible necessity, but the truth is, they of the Book law in this state, have borrowed many shifts out of the Civill Law (to make good their assertions) used most what in times of absolute regall, unlimmitted power; and insensibly put upon us by cowing out the peoples spirits, no lesse by Pon∣tificiall then Monarchicall usurpations, To the Lawyer we in∣tend to speak apart.

But that it is now verie probable Government by a King wil cease in this Kingdome, upon serious consideration of matters and things no temperate man will deny. I am none of those, who build their confidence of it's ruine upon pretended prophe∣sies, neither upon judiciall Astrology, but by the Star of humane reason, and by comparison of past and present transactions; neer guesses are often made, yet I suppose [letting passe remote cau∣ses] it will be worth while to consider the infinite successes on the Parliaments side, [for it is not so heathenish as some would have it, in all cases to judge of matters by event] that perclusi∣on of censures by contingencies, must, as I take it be referred or understood with reflection to the fortune or accident, of some particular sights, or singuler manageries of some few actions, by party against pary, as the Jewes against the Philistines; our case is otherwise, and not merely fortunable; for, we have for 7 or 8 years observed how all open force (upon equall congresses) pri∣vate publique stratagems, and machinations, plots and contri∣vances for morall advantages, carried on many times by persons of extraordinary capacities (Heavens ayd being solemnly as in appearance pray'd) defections of Trustees from the State, or whatsoever else tentations for re••se••ling the late King and his Interest, have been fruitlesse, and, which is much, by how much more likely any thing was to take effect; God in its prevention and frustration (cassating men's policies) in their height, hath then in such nicks of Time, made bare his arme against it, and

notably blasted the managers of such devices.

It is confest the calmest of Gentlemen object not imperti∣nently, how all Histories witnesse, that God hath permitted wicked parties to do great matters against a better cause, slaves say you, have envassaled their Masters, Rebells (such is your language) have slid into Soveraignty: But I am confident no History can paralell our times, observe the difference here, God hath suffered not one partie, not the ambition of one man, not sometimes the prevailing indirect partie of our Cor∣porate body, to carry on his work; his Divine Majesty hath often by strange alterations done wonders, by those, whom presently againe he hath cast of, discerning falsehood from truth rallying up publick spirits, when there was inhumane judgement, little hopes of such helps, and in the close, hath set up this new Modellizd army (thought very inconsiderable) which as a clowd hath obscured, by its atcheivements, as wel Martiall as Civill, even I say, with a Curtaine of terror and obliv on hath darkned all former victories and actions, since this Parliaments first convention: whence it is evident (loo∣king well into things, and persons now at the Sterne poli∣tick and martiall, that they who in your apprehentions, long ago, did hatch these alterations are, if it were so, prevented of their deep and secret hopes, and this present supremacy, or per∣sons acting in it (in respective capacities) called to act but of late, in respect of such old contrivers, could not orignally be guilty of such ambitious designes; I am sure small hopes they had in their privat capacities of those great honors, and trust, whereunto providence hath now called them, and fastened upon their sholdiers.

Neither the late Kings, great knowledge, errors or un∣fortunacy were obtruded upon these Kingdomes by accident, providence also would have it thus, and undone it cannot be, hee is a foole that wisheth it.

It is above me, to dispute, what poor hopes his issue hath actually to were the Scepter of government here, yet I beleeve, the Spanish example in 88. will startle many sorreyners, when especially they shall consider our present posture of defence, and offence. We might go backward, and see what the Pore

(supposedly Christs Vicar) could doe to England, in H. 8. time upon our politick defection from him. I will not deny, but God may permit us againe to be governed by a King, but few examples can be produced of any people, having shak't of that government, over whom Regal interest could present∣ly prevaile; that introduction of Kings upon the Romans, after expulsion of their Tyrants, was late, and after many a∣ges. It is fresh in memory how Queen Elizabeth assisted the Hollander against Spaine, a thing held lawful then, evince∣ing thereby that species of government are of a politick, not religious concernment, the mediocrity of Specifical modes of governing, is Analogicall, respecting times, persons, and safety of Nations governed. However it is scarce possible for a King to be vested with government here, without an abso∣lute conquest, and that by outlandish mercinaryes, our con∣dition then must be bad enough, we shall pay full dearely for a King. When safety outweighs Danger, he is a foole that neglect it, when danger out weighes safety, he is silly that attempteth it.

What ever Heaven will, must come to passe, leave these things to God, nothing of humane passion can hinder his de∣signes, therefore, come it to passe how it will (as to resetling of pristine interest or not, whereof there is so slender hope) better it is to be a Willow then an Oake. And for our meane car∣riage, let us not so much examine other mens Religion as our owne, sooner, or latter most of you must come to my humor of Reformation.

But I perceive there is one thing stumbles many Barbatulous Ladds amongst you, enough, many think, to foment disaffecti∣on, and make any man a Malignant; And that is, a putting downe of Stage playes. Alter but the Scene, and many Pul∣pits will be as whimsically apish to your wild sence; and for se∣vearer Eires of Gentlemen, the Tragick Commedy of flaces∣sent Tithes, supercilliously acted every seventh day by the Pul∣pits-demised premises, terribly deploring the but necessary re∣gulating of them, is super excellent: wherein least you should be wanting that have right of Presentations, I have lately ob∣served, how unable you are. O strong Policy (upon all lapses

by Gods privation) in preferring a pontificall creature for feare the Respective Parishes should petition for election of their Minister. A thing so reasonable and just, as nothing can be more equitable.

Thus we shew our teeth, & cannot bite, foreseeing not, how easily one lift of the Soldiery can scatter and dismantle that weak ex∣crescent Babel, no hard matter to be done, because already, most Ministers languages are different, and their doctrines like con∣vertible responds of an Oricle. Cease then to wonder, why generaly, Ciergy men neigh after new quarrels, and combustions continually yelp and bark against Armyes, peace and settlement under present authority, since it is evdent, there is good cause for such excursions, aswell regarding their double malice as poli∣cie, their malice against all not crediting their doctrines to be EVANGELICA••LL, (though never so carnal) their pollicies in begetting troublesome matter for Ephemerides. or Journall Book, whose matter, dilated upon, is of great effieacy for spinning out discourse, till the hour-glasse become as empty above of sand as their Braines of true know∣ledge.

I beseech you (Gentlemen) be not too much prejudiced a∣gainst private exercises in Religion, for Charityes sake I will suppose though they (in your judgment) may misse in cir∣cumstance, yet there is much of devotion in them. Churches, and houses are alike in themselves, but as they are circumstanti∣ated: And my conscience forces me here to discover, how ra∣tionall the objection raised by some (no fooles) against the more Publick and solemn dispensations of Divinity in Churches, is, in my apprehension, viz. We cannot (say they) make answer in the Churches, to false Doctrine delivered, neither soberly re∣ctisie an erring spirit. Indeed this objection is subnixt with great reason, for it springs naturally from not lesse care, for avoydance of disturbation, then fervent zeale of Edificati∣on.

Neither are the maine reasons of many mens aversenesse, and abhorrence from those kinde of domestick duties obscure unto mee, which are couchible under this fallacy, That Canonicall Doctors teach Truth, as it is truth, abstracted, from degrees

intensive, in matters of Religion, is (say they) already so dogmati∣cally laid down and made out, that beyond these, or these Cate∣cheticall or did acticall positions of Orthodox doctrines, there is no plus ultre. this was never denyed by me.

But leave is craved to tell them, Orthodox is a very hard word of digestion, and that want they impose, as to a necessity of some necessary, standing, fixt and perpetuall formall administrations, is often but mere deduction logicall from Allegorical scriptures, ca∣pable of other constructions, beside theirs.

Wherefore inlightned Saints dare not otherwise beleive, but that God, in his infinite wisedome, hath, and ever will reserve (till the common annihilation of earth) many secret truths communicable in all ages, and that in a more transcendent way of light, then what hath been delivered apart ante, or (as Schollers say) from the an∣tecedent cause, otherwise to what purpose are those commands in Scripture of searching, waiting, &c. otherwise, we should have nothing to do with speculation in Divine matters; and we could have no other work then a common perseverance up Iacobs lad∣der into Heaven.

You are not to believe any tenet, because such men have said so, a mans own discretion (from above originally) will be his best guide, in morall and Religious actions, modern Pulpit men will affirme, That most of the Fathers, celebrated for Orthodox Vo∣lums in Christianity, were but so orthodox in a favourable accep∣tation: I beleive they were knowingly religious in those times, yet far inferiour in knowledge to many men now a dayes, so as (not palliating any soul living) In truth I think, there is a possibility of atteyning an aetheriall blessed ubi through Christ, without be∣leiving all for necessary truths, which either Synods, or late Churchmen have laid down, as essentiall to my journey, to a place they know not where, and vainly labor to presine circum∣scriptively.

For your deportment in condiscention to the formall outward Church and Officers in it, there is no more pendentiall way for rightly fixing you in a possure of indempnity, then in detecting unto your sence, the indifferency of many things obtraded, as that of a bason instead of a Font.

A Gentleman is not mnch the worse (keeping his Conscience

upright) though a Clergy man pronounce him Aheisticall, meerely for that he will not rest, either in fallible decisions of any Synod, or inithe urgement of any Individuall Presbyter implicitely. Some say, it had been wiser, and easier (reflecting to the erection of the Bason in many Churches) by declaring the indifferency of such circumstantiated decencies as well to Papists as Protestants to have reteyned discontented men from Separation (as they terme it) then in these observing dayes by altering formes for forme, or adding forme to Formes, to generate a more quick discompositi∣on against order externall, against goeing to materiall Churches, which is the most decent and convenient way.

The best use can be made by warie knowing men, of that and other impositions like it, will be gatherec, by a rationall reference unto what I have said or shall say in favour of the present Autho∣rity, and their discretion, religiously actuated in cancelling such rigid Statutes, which to much tortur'd tender consciences, upon pretences of Error, Hernsies, Schisme &c. for I have heard very religious and wise men affirme in their judgements, that the ten∣dernesse of many in the Parliament was over voted, when in many things prevalent voyces to gratefie the Synods importunity, silenced at present, others (that had not then liberty to enter dis∣sents) of a contrary judgement.

Although it hath often repented me for the foure pence spent in purchase of the Directory, yet, the honour put upon it by Au∣thorities approbation, made me very ambitious of it for perusall. If you think there was no great worth in that Canon, keep it unto your selves, let that be (if an error) only the respective single. lapse of your understandings. A dangerous defection it is, for private persons to condemne the Act of a Community.

Nothing hath done Gentlemen more hurt then a vain resolu∣tion against so much as reading over books; Ordinances and Votes of Parliament, only so feare they should be infected (for∣footh) with errors (as some peevishly think) both in Church and State, how can men judge rightly, or behave themselves tempe∣ratly avoyding Rocks and Shelves? If they will not by reading, observe the commands of Authority, the Bent of every party and Interest.

If (all this notwithstanding) any amongst you, be perswaded

that Monarchy will resettle here, and upon that improbable hope, will not compound, when as hitherto the indulgence of Parliament, and their unwillingnesse to ruine you is evident, let me tell you, such men are the greatest Enemies to them∣selves, their Children and Families. I wish them wiser, and that Gentlemen would read and observe all Ordinances which concerne generall goods, so may you know when to act, where to avoid, by respective condiscention, concurrence, or giving way, unto the rapid torrent of these nimble dayes.

On the other hand, supposing some glimering of light, and high reason in many of you, formerly more devoted to obsolet formes, shall prompt a Theoretick severe disquisition, or obser¦vance what small hope there is of resetling former government; stick not to confesse it, that others may instrumentally add more sparks thereto; least you do utterly discupacit te your selves (by further vaine holding of) from places of trust in the Common∣wealth; least inferior men of birth, and breeding ingrosse all places of honourable civil command, and most Gentlemen for ever afterwards walke up and downe, like uselesse Pageants.

I am confident this advice of mine with the wisest Gentlemen will be well taken, the rather, because. I have ever since the first of this Parliament, lead a private life, never intermedling with profitable publike imployment which, it is well known I have been offered, not unbefitting a Gentleman (still contenting my selfe with a discended competency) how how much I have said, what I have hazarded upon the royall interest upon a principle of apprehended duty then, (not carried on implicitely upon the wings of others discretion) a way very unsutable to my temper so long as it pleased God to keep it upright in this Nation, yet all this without malice, to the honourable House of Parliament. This by the way remembring, (because it being cleared unto some examiners of my actions, that my ingagements were not altogether unsubnixt with a generall desire of my Countries liberty, and quiet, and my reason was quadrated into a candid confession upon what discretion: I had waded, upon what I would acquiesce; and not strive against Heaven) I received in∣finite courtesies from the Army at Colchester Leaguer, and some knowing Gentlemen of Essex Committee, at a time, when I

was justly represented as disaffected, which lawfull favours chal∣lenge from my pen a gratefull commemoration.

A yeare or two more (Gent.) will habituate the present Go∣vernment, and then perhaps this councell will be thought good by most of you at instant, it is hoped, much prejudice may be re∣moved from these lines; for that this birth is spontaneous, free, voluntary, not brought forth by subtle midwiferv of other men, given by a quiet unsequestred hand, and most affectionate lover of his Native countries peace. Remember then who pre∣tend they had not thought, thank your selves if too late you cry out 'O Vtinam. I know your heart; are much sick with expecta∣tion deferred, whose fruition (as is most clear) is not esi••ntially necessary to your well being here, and which ought to be the greatest comfort) God can save eternally under any outward po∣litick dispensation. This Paper (let what will come to passe) will bear testimony of my good will towards my fellow gent. of Eng∣lands Common wealth.

Sapientis est in consilio, fortunam semper habere.

While the scales were equall; nay, while there appeared but a possibility of restoring a King, something of reason and discreet principles, might create in loyall hearts (for not one in twenty in∣gaged meerly upon loyalty) a desire and flagrant fervency of act∣ing and managing all seeming opportunities, towards that end.

But for Men of any breeding, now in this state of things, and pleasure of heaven (not fortune merely for with a Christian there is no such thing as fortune) to talk themselves into discapacity, contempt and misery, for a man, that can neither help himself, nor his followers whose very interest (originally by conquest) is precluded actualy, whose title of guardianship, all men in Eng∣land confesse fiduciary, If ever it had been reduced to reall in∣vestiture, and could not, cannot much benifit privare persons what ever some please to say, I say for Gent. or others still to continue in Rebelion against reason, is a designe either of igno∣rance, pride, or weak malice.

Let it suffice we have not (as in a dreame) parted with Kingly Government, the world will believe our Nation is generally vali∣ant, let it also understand we are rationall; the terrour of the

one, and notable contemplation of the other may probably star∣tle forrein enemies, from whose violence, who will not pray to be preserved, for preventian of whose intollerable insolencyes, who will not lay out his natural faculties and estate, deserveth neithe: the title of a Gentleman or protection of a Subiect.

Vpon the whole matter lastly. Are we eitheir aware of those unavoydable mischiefs, another alteration of Government, ushe∣rable in by forreigne powers must expose the Bulk of our Nation unto? Or if God afterwards shill resigne us up unto the pleasure of any single person (when we will have a King like other Nati∣ons) in his judgment for our present discontents and grutchings. Are we sensible how farte ingratitude on our parts, for blessings received may seem preparatory for the equity of heavens decisi∣on; and re-assubiecting us under a pretending Lord, from whom for us to crave sobriety in administretion of Justice, wil be ab∣stracted impudence? have we relations parental, filial, uxorions? have we fortunes or tranquilityes privations before our eyes? wee wil certainly confesse, as things now stand, some few acciden∣tal inconveniences, or at most but temporary, necessary taxations. upon our outward creatures, are fitter for an imbrace of Christi∣an patience: then a generall hazardous exposure, of what we already possesse, unto fortunes, (or rather indeed moral indiscre∣tions) Racket.

If I have flatter'd my self into these presumptions of advice; or if ignorence or malice can imbody, to undermine the honest ten∣dency of my pen, my Iudgement (as a man of green years) may happen to make the offence Bayleable, and the generall scan∣dall of our Iron age, shall encourage me, [upon a pious ground no lasse then morall policy) to a pittiful respect of undiscerning men; while my severer thoughts (by gods help) persevere in the undoubtedly warrantable consideration of Gods providence and charity of forgiving mine enemies, whether igno∣rant, or envious.

CHAP. II. Respecting Divines.

FArre from my Abmition it is, to hunt after infamous repu∣tation, by opposing godly Ministers, the ready way for Pu∣trifaction of a good name; But I will speak my conscience and judgement least I be apprehended as unmindful of that noble object of cloquence, Elocution, and reason; Wholesome Admo, nition.

And I must heere walke warily, some will say, least I justly contract the justice of that Sentence, It had been better for me to have had a stone tyed about my Nec, and therewith imbulg'd to be throwne into the Sea. So ready are Clergy men, whether Episcopall, Presbyteriall; or Independent, to accompt themselves Gods special little ones. But the general diseases of all Churches, since there was a Church, changing the Candle∣stick from one to another, viz. Pride, Ambition, and Cove∣tousness, are as predominant in our Ministers as ever they were in any since Christian Religion was first planted in Europ: else, to what purpose is it, I pray you? Clergy men of the Episcopall straine! that you have so long, so mightily struggled to prove (though weakly God knows) Bishops divine right, and an indis∣pensible necessity of many needless formalities in outward ad∣ministrations, (extrancous to edification.) Why do you Pres∣byterians! bustie so vigorously to the disquiet of godly people? and the present Civill government, for settling of a Classical — Presbyterial — and we know nor what — congregationall Church polity, the very high rode to subject us Lay-men to more imediate domination then ever, in religious matters? And why lastly do you (Independent Ministers) exclaime against all order? and cannot or will not discerne between Ataxie, and Eutexie? Is it possible any thing can be done any duty per∣formed without some Ceremonie? Surely none either morall or sacred.

The height and extrem 'tie of passions, fluctuating between these three, hath rendred all that weare black Coats in some measure contemptible, and to justifie their respective quarrells, they pre∣tend these Three principal grounds obliging.

1. The Episcopall men pretend a necessity of Oathes observati∣on taken at institution and induction; requiring obedience unto their Ordinarie.

2. The Presbyterians are imbosted with the Covenant.

3. The Independent cryes out for liberty of conscience.

To the first I say againe their ordinary, is a non eus, wherefore they are at liberty; they cannot: are not bound to hunt after anni∣nihilations, or sacrifice themselves upon an Alter of impossibility.

To the second (not mentioning what poore interest of reason the Scottish Nation had to Covenant with us for a Covenant. in imitation of them, who were not long since Feudatory to us, and were never Enfranchis'd from their homage by a right Na∣tional concession,) it is I will not say a meere Politick, but a convertible Engine good or not so good, in qualified and un∣strained sences: for if we and they sware to maintaine Scot∣tish Ecclesiastick government, (take it so Hypothetically) we did not understand what it was, and Doctors of their Church, confesse it hath suffered much alteration since its first footing there. If we take it Categorically, admitting they sware (who took the Covenant) to comply to the Polity most agreeable to Gods word we nor they can be our owne judges therein, it is a thing so purely spirituall. If the Synod could not define which kinde of Church goverment was only imbraceable, their pre∣sumption will not differ from a venial sinne (if such sinnes there be) since the putting down of Episcopal government, was only lawfull and expedient in order to safety of the Nation, that the best might be set up and men are justified as I take it by a Vote. That no Church government is of perpetuall divine right, which did wisely let in satisfactory light for the paineful Mid∣wifes of Reformation in all and every respective sunctions and callings.

To the third, what can be said to be truly conscience, unlesse grounded upon Gods word or some necessarily emaning con∣sequence thereof, otherwise (say Divines) how easily will pri∣vate

apprehensions resolve into Error, these are to take care they make not torrid misguided zeal fruitfull in production of scuffiers against common decencies, withall remembring that the ground and rise of superstition, was alwaies zeale, zeal is its parent, time its nurse, and cunning Preists it's Fomentor. Witnesse, Rome.

But i'le resume the first viz. The Episcopall Levites many of whom I confesse I honour much for their learning, civility, and breeding, who, were they perhaps well harnessed, would draw in the Lords yoke gallantly, though as they now stand, what mischiefes, mseries, affronts, and abuse•••• many of these will re∣dact themselves unto, rather then leave off a Canonical Coat, or a blessed Tassel from their Wasts is wonderful? how vigilant they are to pry into the Vacancy of some blind Qratory about Lon∣don, or the Country, there with abundant zeal to vent definition doctrine, reasons and use, not missing one of these rare ingredi∣ents, least they should misse of being layd by the heels, and so not be celebrated at the next Tavern for Counter Martyrs, where, ha∣ving layn three or four dayes or weeks, they get more useful lear∣ning then in all their former Academick disceptations & ayrie di∣putes; besides, happily better furnisht, at their egresse, with humi∣lity then before, when afflicted with a peice or two in thefr Pock∣ets.

Some of these Episco pall Ministers are very ignoramuses and have justly because unfit been evicted, yet these looking big, will speak with a great deal of formall gravity and are by many extol∣led for learned fellowes, whom these Black Coats out presence, with a pontificall kind of deportment. I could never much ad∣mire such men, who can neither speak nor write their supposed excellencies.

If they have any thing in them, it is uselesse, yet a man must conceipt their rests some mighty, invisible wonders in their sculls. And I will heartily confesse, this distinction J learned from some Commanders at Colchester Leagure, unto whose sagacity much is by me owed; in order towards right scanning of men and interests, where J received infinite courtesies from Martiall men insomuch that (to many good respect;) my genius preferreth a lea∣gure far before an university; There was I taught not to adore

black gaberdines, more then gray cloaks, there, mens discreti∣ons as conquered, conquerours were discovered; and I had just cause to go home with a strong conviction, that there are good Preachers, besides qualified Ministers: But this is a digre∣ssion.

The good degree of perfonall love I bear to many ministers of the old stamp, wrings truth from me and my ambition would center in satisfactions cape, so far see you love your selves, as be. commeth discreet men, not biassed fot upholding despoticall in∣tercsts in Church policy, fervently zealous for promotion of godlinesse, in its powerfull vivacity remitting state matters to states men; not picking out texts on purpose to give scandall, believe me, it is a very high ofence for men to make Gods pre∣cious word seem accessary in procreating sinister excursions. Christ never presidented pragmatick invasions upon publicke magistracy set over us undeniably by his permissive divine providence; which he will not endure to be pieced out with our own.

No toung of man, or Angels can excuse you from contracted scandall by being wedg'd up, and doting too much upon for∣mality. I see no reason, why the places in the Old testament denoting the Majesty of the materiall temple, should be strained to elevate the necessity of preaching in our Churche, only, for although in Metaphilick reasoning ubieties are explicated with respect to bodies, and therefore, if one ask, where Christ is? an answer is well given, In heaven he is, the apposite answer might have been He sits at the right hand of his Father: for, the first respond. scilicet he is in Heaven, doth rather declare unto us his Majesty, then ubiety, for, circumscriptive or finite ubiety falleth not upon him as God, infinite locality or ubiquity (a di∣vine attribute) is competent to God alone, spirits have it not; why then are you affraid of private exercises in these times, by you termed times of persecution; when as (not despising reasonable Order wherein Room excells all Churches, though otherwise she harh little piety,) your selves must acknowledg, God is in e∣very place, in houses, in Churches, in fields, and what is spo∣ken: My house is an house of Prayer, must be understood (as to the term, House) in an Allegoricall sence, that is, My People

being gathered shall pray servently, and I will heare them, the duty is there held forth, not the place prefined to performe the duty in.

But some will by and by object, that I am a slender Divine, and unfit to teach or tereat of misteryes, beware of proud igno∣rance, for it i•• your vice, who think Laymen unworthy to disquire or examine Parsons more learned Axiomes, the spirit of God is not, cannot be concluded in this or that humane qualification, no better expedient for restraining from a spirit of contradiction, and opposition to Publick materiall Churches, then useing or them as indisterent.

Trouble not your selves with Species of Government civill, for if government be but exercitium Potestatis, no scruple need be, but that Texts for obeying Magistrates, and that parentall clause of the Commandement extending to Governours no lesse then naturall Parents, may be, without impropriety of reason, under∣stood as imposing subservience to present Authority, under which God hath placed us all. Such was due to Caesar.

The wisdome of Superiors is such, I hope, as will easily for∣give former extravagances, whereunto perhaps a vehement per∣swasion, that God would a continuance of things in Statu quo, made many of your Coat obnoxious.

And I think, some thing higher, then morall indempnity from want, may reduce the discreetest Episcopall Clergy unto a temperament of silent dissaplause, if not condiscention, unto Heavens pleasure in alteration of Government, and that is, an hope for liberty to preach Gods word; A felicity (if truely valu∣ed) by vaine spurning against Hornes of Authority, precluded your selves and us, who desire to profit by you? Wherefore the Scope of that gayneable hope (in discretion quickly, perponde∣rating any morall dislikes in publick transactions) will one day (beleeve it) at the great Tribunall be called upon because sligh∣tingly neglected, and opposed to all foolishly perverse Mini∣sters, who because, they may not be suffered in their Pulpits med∣ling, with what concernes them not to meddle withall, will render themselves uncapable to preach at all, interring many times their rich Talents in the Orbes of their owne Braines. A sinne against the Holy Ghost.

Neither are you to doubt, but the State will reunite and fix you (upon compliance) as members of our Corporate body of Eng∣land and Ireland in such a way, as shall cancell all reares of im∣posing extraordinary disfavours upon men of former disaffecti∣on; so may all former necessary severity used towards Ecclesi∣astick persons be turned into a more sweet aspect, whereunto all Subjects are generally invited in the neat, and weighty closure of their Declaration of the causes moving the Parliament to al∣ter the government; whereupon further it will follow, that it may be also casie for such or you (not scandalous in life) to be vested with Cure of Parishes wanting able Pastors, and if it be adjudg'd expedient Tythes be taken away from Ecclesiastick persons, it is probable your interests being parochially fixt, will be subnixt with proportionate shares in any new more equall establishment of provision for a Godly Ministry.

This counsell will appeare more rationall, when God shall give you grace to consider, that the old Clergy (acting in a perseverance of contumacions vaine strugling against Authori∣ty) unawares wrackes it selse, upon those shelves of mischeivous rebellion, where from, it hath unthankfully sweat for deter∣ring of others seaven or eight years together: for what Rebelli∣on is comparable unto that of rationall creatures against reasons aymiable indictions, against that light of morall, and natural preservation, whose radiant lustre shining in our soules, com∣mandeth every man (where Gods glory or Religion come not immediatly into competition) to reserve himselfe for Christs service, in his due time calling men either as Ministers, or Mar∣tyres?

Object. I know it will be quickly replyed what hope is there of true Religions flourishing, or increase of godlinesse under this present government.

Answ. My Answer is (though not well understanding where∣in true Religion is placed by many men perhaps) experience common of most powerful piety free from sordid formality, and unlimited loosenesse pregnant in this Kingdome, may sufficient∣ly anticipate that needlesse objection: Many men may be pro∣duced of different judgements, touching government civill, yet with a blessed harmony together ayming at the fruition of Christ.

But a more immediate estoppell wil this following be. God in his eternall prescience knows well, what forms of Civill Admini∣strations [in order to mens sinnes clogging respective ages of the world] are fittest, for making out his own glory, and dissipa¦ting those congested mountaius of Form, whose politick contri∣vances (as to linking of carnall personal interests, with prentensi∣ons of piety) must be unraveled, before Christs second comming, that al things may alternately stoop unto the scepter of his pow∣er.

The pregnancy of which light is abundant satisfaction evin∣cing thereby unto many discreet men, the necessity of putting tra∣ditional maximes of unqualified or qualified Monarchy in suspen∣sion or abeyance (as Lawyers call it) of, I say acquiescing under present Civil Supremacy, because, if there be no accessaries in high and lowest offences, they fear to be made principals in occasio∣nally obstructing Gods design (a very high offence) perpetrated ignorantly oftentimes by holy and good men, where, upon a sud∣den dereliction of good spirits from them, for their tryals here below, but a little space, they walk darkly under a Carnall Vaile until again rightlie fixt into penitential contemplations, by Gods sole indulgence.

Besides, admitting as some would have it, a kind of necessity of Kingly Government (an error sufficiently refuted) for dispute sake, straining a morall precept of obedience unto that in an e∣speciall regard, the concession thereof will instantly expire in reasons bosome; because that last mentioned dispensation (if a tye unto Monarchy were created by any moral or Judaick pre∣cept (only proper unto Jewes Monarches) is just fiable according by way of Letter) where founded upon rules of inevitable necessi∣ty that necessity, being cleer, absolute present, certainly yours and all subjects cases in England at present, through permissive pro∣vidence atleast, if not conservative.

God may yet bring the Episcopall Ministers into a fight of their defections. which with all my soul I wish, & am drawn into a be, lief, that one reason why their prayers hitherto have little prevai∣led to extricate them from eminent vexations; is; for that they have prayed too much with a limitted love unto themselves, how

idle and impolitick a stratagem your perswasions of the People, that certain sacred Levitical debts are due from lay people, pay∣able towards Ecclesiastick establishment, who seeth not? the rout can no longer be haltered with groundlesse terrible feares of spi∣rituall censures; so much hath the Apostles order for Excommu∣nication been abused to good mens grief, and the great discom∣position of necessary order, indeed you may blame your selves, if palpable weaknesses on Ministers parts have let ordinary capaci∣ties understand, the Parsons anger is not as the breath of Gods no∣strils, leave off supercilious frowns in preaching, time may wear out many inconveniences, no more wholsome way for Episcopall Clergy men, then an humble undistracted perseverance, in edifying themselves, and others in the doctrine of peni∣tence for what's already past, (reflecting upon their scam∣bling positions about government) and a finall and judicious Resolution of following the dictates of providence for the future, which I leave to your timeous considera∣tion.

By this time it may justly be expected, I should deliver some things, as well of discovery as admonition, to the Presbyterian Ministry, who (being generally of a Pharisaicall temper, ambi∣tious of terms of frothy honour) are indeed so much the more inexcusable in their ordinary; defections, by how much they have enjoyed peace, quiet and repose (three cardinall ene∣mies unto flatuous Hypocondriack passions) yet bustling with restlesse endeavours for imposition of such an outward Church-policy as may adequate Ministeriall command, unto Magistrati∣call, and make state-policy dependent upon Eclesiastick hu∣morous influence.

These cry out, The Army hath deceived them, nothing so for the Souldiery, by qualifying Presbytery, and granting mode∣rate faculties unto men of tender Consciences, hath preserved them from sliding into potentiall tyranny over the very souls of men.

The more often Presbyterians echo out expostulations, against Martiall men, that, they have preacht the souldiery into a Capacity that but for them, the work could not have gone for∣ward that, they, in a word are ungratefully dealt withall, doubt∣lesse

a more serious black scandall, by such ingeminations daily is contracted unto the discontented Authors of such carnal reper∣cussions; for, if they did preach the Souldiery into a capacity, it was either a good work in them, or a bad one: I a good one, their rewards are in Heaven, if indeed never so good in it selfe, yet, their ends in preaching, might make it bad as to them, they might dream after temporal dominion; no man ought to do evill (that is against his conscience) that good may come thereof. I dare not charge them with Hypocrisie, Avarice or Ambition, yet if most probably men discerne the bent of immanent actions, by se∣veral out goings, and it be no sin for us to judge, where God hath judged before us O Presbyterian Ministers. Your unquenchable desires of fat Benefices, linking some times two or three compe∣tencies together, removing from place to place; familiarly slighting flocks destinated unto your charge, ayming at an art in Preaching, are shrew'd Symtomes of carnal hearts, of Gods imminent displea∣sure over you; and that it may justly be suspected, you are not prefined men for setting up instrumentally Gods designe, in pa∣rity of Reformation.

The greatest discretion I ever observed in you, is, that how ever generally men of plausible consciences yet are you al blest with re∣straining grace: not a man (for all the great noyse) that I heare of will venter Sequestration for medling with State affaires in Pulpits. I would you would as well leave of private instillations into mens heads about the Covenants obligation; and against ne∣cessary liberty of conscience, since; why we should dance after a Scottish Kirk for a government, (when it is notably disputed whether Christ will be pleased any formal polity should be ob∣truded on his Saints) no good reason can be given, Gods word (as a touch stone) being subnex'd unto that clause in the Cove∣nant. It is a known sin with Civilians, for a man to performe a∣ny Oath comporting in tis performance, damage to Religion, Justice, and the Common wealth, and I dare appeale unto your owne consciences, whether your former Doctrines for seaven yeares together, did not condemne restrictions put upon consci∣ences? whether private exercises were not then by you highly magnify'd? whether quenching of the Spirit (which may well be understood as in forceing of Consciences) were not markt out as

an almost unexpiable sin? Lastly, whether your out cry against Tyranicall formes, obtrudable upon consciences, were reall in those dayes or no? If reall, you are the maine and greatest de∣fectors from just principles, if not real, and that such Doctrines were politickly delivered, only out of a secret wicked ambition by serving times upon hopes (in unhappy conjuncture of affaires) of obteyning Episcopal preventions, and fat benefices, thence fo∣stering clat cularaymes (with your Scottish Brethren) gradually to divide with Lay-men, even in disposition of Civil administrati∣ons: those designes were inconsistent with Ministers of Christ.

In sadnesse let me tell you (Learned Pastors) admitting you talk't heartily, and had no such sinister ends, you are at present un∣happily subjected unto blame on all hands; how justly God knowes, and some of your consciences can well assigne reasons why, God should in justice retaliate upon you, that contempt, Presbyterian Ministers put upon others of the same function, di∣vided only from them in opinion about Church government, un∣to the lamentable miseries of which wretched Episcopal men, many of you (to your eternal shame be it spoken) added a full cup, by substracting the fift part (allowed by the mercy of the Parliament) from their Wives and Children. O unparalelld cru∣elty! O heathnish irreligions, Authority knew it not just, for in∣nocent Woemen and Babes to be ruined, for their Fathers hea∣dy extravagances, and our most just Creator makes it good of∣ten on Earth, that misery findes lovers of other mens miseries out.

It is no Paradox for me to say unto you (sad Christians) your mischeife and disrespect is from your selves. The best advice I can give unto the Pulpit demised premises, will be, that for future they would beare such a proportionable respect unto other mens consciences, unto other mens pledge, of Gods love (their Wives and Children) as they desire Heaven should beare unto them this wil be their best mean towards recovery of their lost reputation, this their principal antidote aganist scandal; especially in these dayes, wherein many say (not regarding rules of contraries) there is no such thing as error for, if (say they) the greatest Divines are divided in judgement about matters of faith, the strongest Lawyers differ about what is Law, what not, and most sapient

Statesmen, are plunged in their owne devices; we cannot beleive their is any such thing as eror, because we know not the truth; If no error, no sinne, what followes? no God, no hell. A strange world we live in, and of these wild extravagances in sinne, which ground such vanities, it seems Clergy mens generall inconstancy arogance ambition and malice are fomentors, whereupon a mo∣dern Poet taking it ill to be branded with the name of an Athiest by a Presbyter, hath Satirically descanted in this following Rith. micall Poem.

Satyrus de Caco-presbyteris

I Am jam subtristis increbuit Echo, Dummodo Presbyter, egregius praeco. Me dixit Atheismi totum Integrale. Ostendens suo pectore multum in esse mali. Sin illud verum ratione facias, Agam tibi (Sace dotule) gratias. Contra miraturus cum sit rumor altus Doctores Synodo evasisse per Saltus Jam dudum: remanes tu Dulmanus, Insulsus Juvenis, at multum scurra Canus. Quid te miles odit, ridentque Generosi; Handquaquam cluat esse aliquid monstrosi: Quateuus diu C••e um•• obstruxisse pacem Christianam recte fertur, ac Martis esse facem: Qui nisi suum polleat interesse stabilire Memphitticum, garrit, Reformatio non in fieri est, Populumque jugum Christi saluberrimum Contempsissie prave, et expetere terrimum Libertatis Vadum; male Judependentem Chymaeram adhinire verum minime advertentem. Vah! jam tandem Laici didicere verum, Nigra vestimenta minns esse Dei Clerum; Religio cujus est solummodo formalis, Sit aeque pium Decimare quam ludere cum talis.

Subridet porro purior Ecclesia Sanctorum, Presbyterum tenere aedhuc ambitum terrenorum, Praeferentem Evangelio, ubique predicabli, Rostrum (qua tale) valde quidem amabile Apostatieae Stigmate crudeliter percutit Private excercentes, premeditata diffint. Quale docent passim Seraphici Doctores, Sibique datum Coeli distribuere rores. Infra muros spiritum impie circumscribunt Ac vastis abdominibus decimas imbibunt. Hi ne Coeli liminis fiunt Clavigeri? Nil minus, Sathanae potius Scutigeri. Ergo ne credas (lector] Omnipotentem Hos reformandi velle causam contigeutem? Heraclitus ad terras rediens Cothurnalis. Rideret ad conspectum Presbyteri parochialis; Episcopatum versus dum succussaret lipide, Illudque Christi regimen predicans intrepide. Cur Po idorns olim Volsoeam sit notatus, Quod primus Angliae Sacerdotum grassabat Sericatus? Volseos mille dabo, crudelis Polidorus Tantum in Cardinalis vitium sonorus, Praelati nomen prae Regali positio, Lege comparatus, sibi vix vertetur vitio. Confidunt nostri quatenus Spurcitijs tentare Duris formalitatibus Christum concatenare. Seeurt nunquam Sancti pia fraude satis, Sacerdotibus usa Frock-butroniatis. Quid queso? none Rumor divino jure niti Ecclesiae nullum Regimen, det medecinam liti? Evincat saltem minime Sacerdotes decere, Altercationes strenuas in statu commovere. Compede sed faederis Albanici ligantur Haud 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 conscientijs mandantur. Sit modo praecox votum modo fides rescindenda Temere suscepta, ac Pelinodia conciuenda. Quis inde regno hactenus extitit necon ior Pateat, Presbyter vel Episcopus confidentior,

Conscientias ligari, hi quoque dicunt vitium, Independentes obtrectantes, nec non et Comitium: Atqui, ut Catholice zelus hic inclaruit, Ad votum salubre Parliamenti subito disparuit: Hinc misere confrendunt, nescientes praedicare; Vetantur quia Plebem titillitio dementare Presbiteriali, ac Species regnandi Rostro definire, sub Poena Sequestrandi. Latratus partim lividus confraenatur protinus, Recessus pertinacia coactus, et serotinus. Accessit terror Panicus, horum livor flaccescit, Sedantur multo Malignantes, Reformatio crescit, Recente pergant Ephori incude collimare Ebullientes Cleri linguas, si vellent Regnum stare.

If there be any biting truthes in this Poetry or Latin Rithms, Ministers must take in good part (if good they be) for it doth not touch them. As for the spiritually proud Minister (that white Devil of our age, and disturber of our quiet,) It matters not three pence, how he understandeth them. If the Vanity of Preachers have not discompos'd this Kingdome much of late, and ruined o∣thers heretofore, let all men judge. But the piety of some humble Church-men, (who have wisely unfettered themselves from earth∣ly cares, and do quietly preach (in season, and out of season) true sound Christianity, without mingling State-affairs into their dis∣pensations, I alwayes judge it necessary to heare and imitate; and am very glad even of late the Parliament hath (for the unpreju∣dicing of many) declared, they will maintaine a Godly diligent Ministery; unto whose dictates (because men) though we must not wholly resigne up our discretions in Religious matters; yet will every quiet spirit (for their gifts sake) give encouragement, and deferre treble respect unto them.

CHAP. III. Respecting Lawyers.

I Am now at last come to speak some thing unto the Lawy∣ers of England, men of mine owne profession; who I know generally will take it ill for any unwinged Gown∣men, to be pretendedly wiser then Law. And I also (confessing my selfe a meere Lime or Hackney of the Law) am not much fledg'd with an Apprehension, that I can speak halfe so much Law as reason.

The Theoretick part of Englands Law (though in some things defective, in other redundant) I honour, especially for that I beleeve it wisely distributh real inheritance, and uprightly devolves discents, whereof also Authority hath said they resolve a permanence, upon former foundations, which decision my reason teacheth. I do not slight or trench upon, when I endeavour a candid representation of errors in Superstru∣ctive practice: that must of necessity challenge from piously disposed Governours a timely discontinuance, and alteration, where inconveniencies and mischeifs are Epidemical.

The great fluttering noise as well old practizers in the Theo∣rie, with Almond Trees on their formal Crownes, as puny Clarks will make, about known Axiomes, Maximes, custome, practise, and Moth-eaten Records is such, that it hath startled most men, desirous of a more compendious, succinct, and ex∣peditious passage and decision of litigious debates. But I well hope, my contemptible vessel wil not split upon those lofty, towring Rocks.

However, this I dare affirme. It is the great mistery under which our Lawes are Couch't, and the Barbarity of that cor∣rupt Latine and Norman language, have amused many into a strong fancy of the excellency of our proceedings in sutes.

No small wonder it appeareth unto me, men should so much dote upon actions of our Ancestors in times of Popery when (if it be well observed) few laws were free from pontificall influ∣ence, that they cannot see the healing of present Supremacy is wanting, for reforming things in practise Religious, and Civill.

Tyme, heth drawn a vail, cunning heads have fomented, and Interested parties alternatly have fixt a great and seemingly good reputation upon erroneous transactive practises, in actuating the most necessary and ordinary projects of our Municipiall Law! endlesse Maeanders, length and nicity of pleading formality per∣ching above equity and sometimes plain distinguishable justice, have rendred very Law it self odious: whereunto if we subioyn, that most Just captations may be taken against proceedings, in our chargeable Chancery, Reason will back our asserti∣ons.

Many wise men have thought (regarding how a perfection in distributive Justice is, or ought to be the scope of every law) it were proper and convenient for the Subject of England, If the same Iudg, at the same time (with the Juries consent) might defi∣nitively correct strictnesse of law, together with his pronunciati∣on directly, where mens positive lawes have with all humane pos∣sible care provided against probable contingencies, whereby some times, a 150 orders might be spared both Plaintiff and Defendant and sutes no more intailed in Chancery from generation to gene ration For, it is an ordinary thing in our Coure of Equity, for a cause to spin out 8. years before it can come to an hearing.

Others have quarrelled as much, saying that it is lesse reason for law proceedings (if any reason at all) to be in Latine, then chan∣cery Bils, because of the great danger to a Clyent in missing form at Common law. But these my great Masters at law, can, if they please determine: were not men besotted to horrible avarice, and Apes to one anothers wickednesse.

Some may suppose I speak by roat, when I shall affirm twenty years are not sufficient, to learn the practise of one Attorney in; so full of variety is law practice, and indeed head Officers in Courts make it upon the matter what they please, no vivacity of wit can reach the Vanity of Formes in reasonable time, these

Mysteties make the Subject more miserable (truly we may say it) then those Nations whose lawes are unwritten, For, upon the nicetyes and intricacies of Headings are hatcht demurrers, a de∣vice meerly to spin out money and tyme, such exceptions being mostwhat taken to formal defects, not materiall, and though the parties meaning be evident, a misplaced word or mistaken sen∣tence shall cancel all done before.

Men of slendrest capacityes discern, how much plaintiffs are favo∣red in our Courts. And strangers admire at the Multitudes of Men depending upon legall matters here in England I beleive there are at least ten and ten thousand qualifyed Officers at law in England, reckoning upon a true accompt, beside running soli∣citors infinite, this most superfluous brood (maintained only by prosit arising by Law) is generated not through defect in the fun damentall part of our law, neither doth it require such Multipli∣cious managery, were the wayes and means tending unto the iust ends of law explained smoothed made right and shortned; for prevention of which ambages, and circuit in actions these two rules are very (in my poor judgment) expedient as a prepa∣ratory to more.

• 1. That the generall Issue, be pleaded in all acti∣ons.
• 2. That good Costs be Ordered upon unjust Sutes. and Iudgement for them presently awarded.

The Attorney will instantly cry out. What then shall become of all our President Books? if the generall issue be pleaded? It were very hard if a People should generally suffer for feare they should make their presidents uselesse.

The like will Counsellors alleage, when thousands of Fees in a terme shall be saved by Generall Pleas.

Thus (lawyers) you seek a preservation of your owne Interest in the distemper of our whole Nation.

As the Case now stands, he that hath the weightiest purse many times carryes away the Bell, right or wrong. for any man may bring Error upon Error, even in personal Actions, and men are tyred out with seeking for their owne.

A man may outlaw his Neighbour for a cause, or without a

cause: the remedy against the Sheriffe is troublesome, and most∣what, worse then the disease: the grounds of these proceedings I know, but they are damnably abused: Sheriff, cry out as much against Chequer mens abuses not without reason.

No uninterested man can plead for continuance of these, and forty worse inconveniences, which may in due time be represen∣ted. Attorneyes would get more mony, I am sure more honestly, if practice were contracted: for as things are, needlesse, lazie, stan∣ding Officers, Monopolize making up a processe, and transacti∣ons, Attorneys lay out their mony (getting it againe with curses in the Country) while trudging up and down they can get (be∣sides cutting and making, or sharpning good hand-bills) but ten groats a Term. In so much, that it is now as essentially necessary for an Attorney, to be a good foot-man; as not to have a soft place in the hinder part of his head.

And who will not stand amazed, that is not a corrupt Lawyer., when it shall be truly told him the mystery of an Attorneys trade is greater then that of a Counsellor? That the smallest actions tryall will cost at Westminster six or seven pounds (where shall a poore man have it?) That men must pay Fines for liberty to enter Actions by originall writ? that money must be paid in the pound for damage laid, and damage cleere? that one Court never gives lesse then forty shillings costs upon judgements by default, or con∣sent, the other seldome more (but when finable) then Twenty. That Allegories are ordinary in Law suggestions, both in cancel∣larian and legall proceedings. That by laying an Imaginarie Mu∣tuatus, a man may bring an action for a shilling in the Courts at Westminster? That the same costs are given where the Damage to the Plaintiffe appears not to have five shillings as where the Plaintiffes prejudice was forty times, as considerable? That, a petty legall Tyranny is howerly exercised by forreyne North, and We∣stern Attorneyes, by reason of the distance of the places from London. But time will not permit, let these hints suffice at pre∣sent, till more leisure, to remonstrate, how necessary Law Re∣formation is, and how farre from an happy and well ordered Po∣lity Englands Administration is, till these things be reduced into order, and pragmatick busie Lawyers, whether qualified or un∣qualified,

be restrained from taking advantage of these laxations in the practick managerie of Law. Authority cannot do all at once: wise men know every Commonwealth is judged by what is commonly and ordinarily done; and it is a very hard thing to prove Common Barretors. Is there any man so sencelesse to think it a sin, that either that Law against them, or any other Law humane be corrected, usage is an Asse, when time comes in, umpire of practise, Lawes are cancelled, when obsolete, or noxi∣ous, soft, or cruell, disconstitutionall, or idle for a people; when organically they are imperfect, and selfe Ministers accidentally (though good) of bad manners.

In order whereunto to make out my assertion domestically: lest I should seem to owe more unto the nimble wits of these days, then unto that great reason (without vanity be it spoken) I am able to bring for translating our Lawes into the English tongue. I will here declare my well wishes, that it might not any longer be lockt up in an unknowne Barbarisme, or impectorated with a few.

The dangers conting ible in possibilty must be rare by it's Eng∣lishing, the advantages very considerable, when (being reduced from her loose expatiated volumes under Alphabetick divisions) shee shall wed an English Government of simple lustre.

This is the way to put her into a capacity of winning her cause∣lesse Enemies unto obedience of her just sanctions; she will then, more cleerely evidence (being a little reformed by competent hands) it was ever and is still in part, her Midwives either nesci∣ence, corruption, or retchlessenesse, which hath hitherto caused many of her Children to grow Ricketty. In her the cause is not, yet are not her gray haires signes of perfect wisdome:

Men talke of morall Equity, right, Fredome from Ty••ranicall usage; I dare maintaine it, untill every one, as an English man, may freely read his duty in English, and look into that which must regulate his deportment, and interest Civill (not represen∣table by Statutes) and thereby discerne the necessity of some times admitting particular mischiefs, rather then generall inconveni∣ences: Vaine have been, ever will be all arguments or pretensi∣preferring respective discretion of precedent, present, or fu∣ture

Law-givers. Thus may the Reason of Law be cleared; and upon what grounds, prudence and respect unto morall equity, of Iudaick lawes, lawes of England are founded.

Neither is it ever expectable vulgar heads can be reduced from generall prejudice against our Lawes, while they are looked upon as inconsiderable or unfit objects of Pitty; and no expedi∣ent laide, for their satisfaction in their just Cavill against Law language, that Relick and badge of our Norman slavery.

I can admit the current of that Objection, viz That ordinary men will not be much wiser for it's translation: But certainly it is impertinent, for they will be better satisfyed, if not with the reason of the Law (because perhaps they cannot reach it) yet will this Cordial refocillate their spirits, because then, it shall lye in their owne Powers to be their owne Coun∣sellors.

Besides, it may be well supposed upon Englishing of it, the peo∣ple will not so much murmur and repine at Iudgments, and de∣cisions given in Courts of Justice: When as all along both plain∣tiffe and Defendant may track with much facility those paths, wi∣ser heads have chalked out for preservation of Common right, and reciprocal Iustice between partyes.

They are mistaken who say ignorance is the Nurse of Civil de∣votion. Englishmen naturally disgust or slight things placed above them. Every man is not bred a Scholer, or book earned, what if the Mases have been favourable un to him? im∣ployments of many men will not afford them time for studdying the craggy Language of our law, upon this ignorance is an Epi∣demick vice.

And yet I have not known more unhappy men in sutes, then mere Scholers, for they looking upon generall rules of Equity only, can hardly be drawn (till they are well smarted for their Scholastick presumptions) into a belief of the wholsome compo∣sure of our Lawes fitted in their position, aswel unto adequate reason of naturall right, as appropriated most part unto the con∣stitutional bent of our Nation: upon this anvill of causelesse dis∣content and prejudice it is true, occasion is improperly taken and Ministers heartily threaten Attorneys, as brambles in the State, be∣cause,

our bills are neither by them intelligible nor legible, in that, they are unreasonable.

All arts have their forms, termes. Lawyers theirs. It is said a Parson lately preacht this doctrine. That his parishioners ought to observe, Court hand was an Idoll, and God would dash Law∣yers for all their dashes, But at such we smile,

As violent on the other hand are Councellors, and most attor∣neys against all military men, who dare speak plain English, and petition for Reformation in Law practice. These men consider not, being wedg'd up with present forms, how most of our lawes in England had military grounds for their begetting. And thus much my Discretion teacheth me, to affirm impartially; Many of the Governing part of the present Army, are blest with extraor∣dinary Reason, far beyond most of our learnedest Ply-baggs. It matters not from whom our help floweth if we get cure of civill Distempers, and from their indeavours it is most likely to proceed If I mistake not.

I perceive that a strong fancy pessesseth most Lawyers of a ne∣cessary single Governor, whom they alwaies (vainly enough) loo∣ked upon in his politick Capacity as an immortall Deity. But that is a meer fiction, like the houses in astrology.

I desire to be resolved how a parliament could order the succes∣sion of the crown of England from Hen 6. to Edw. the 4th. up∣on breach of a Condition; if a condition be an Hereditament. Henry the 6th was in by discent from Hen. the 5th, Edw. the 4ths entry was tolled, yet (by that Parliament at the end of H. the 6th. raign and beginning of E. 4th. judged lawfull, where was the King in the intervall of H. and E? These are bables for a man to think upon seriously, for that paradox of the immortali∣ties of Kings and Bishops here, is actually resolved to annihila∣tion.

All States and Potentates are taught by natural reason to ingage their subjects into obedience.

The present new engagement must not be judged any innova∣tion or cruell Obtrusion, but rather a carefull indulgence for safe∣ty of the whole, complecting every mans exactible duty, lest any should pretend ignorance of that duty, for actuating whereof, to

wholesome ends, hee is designed. This every man will beleeve convenient, whose Braines are not disturbed with the QVEEN OF WATERS influence; and our immediate rivolets of dan∣gerous honor, need not much complaine or curse their fates, FOR BEING SVBIECTED TO THE LAW; since upon their owne stock of exhalations, reshowred downe, they for a time survived their fountaine; and may yet runne a more direct course in another Region, if they please, or can stoop to Provi∣dence.

Neither hath the Common Lawyer above all men, any cause to repine at present fixing of our State, for that his craft or my∣stery is preserved intine, his rode toward subsistence the same, only it may seeme reasonable, in lieu of that felicity, he should rightly valew it, and informe where Reformation of abuses is most wanting.

For mine owne part, having (with a good intention) com∣posed these papers: I must begg leave in one word, by way of preventing prejudice, to Apologize, lest my advice herein gi∣ven, or any representation obvious unto my scope, should be unworthily apprehended as savouring either of pride, base ends, or partiallity: for what ever I have written to those three fore∣mentioned qualifications of Gentlemen, Divines, or Lawyers, my request is, should be understood, as an efflux upon exigence of Method proposed: not that I any way undervalue others, whether Merchants, Tradesmen, Mechanicks or Yeomen, nay not the more low sort of men, because to my sence, every res∣pective part of these are equally as considerably usefull in our Common wealth, and it is civility makes a Gentleman deboyst∣nesse a Clown, and sonne of the earth, my Prayer unto God shall be, that all men (setting aside frothy Titles) would cen∣ter their ambitions in him, who is alone able to reduce certain∣ty, peace and rest in this unsetled humorous age: an acquiescence in his providence will dispell Melancholick perturbations: when all Physick besides must prey a little upon the naturall Spirits of the Body, that will compose the Soule, and set the tur∣moyled creature free from all possibility of miseries, dangers, and feares. As for the Species of Magistracie (in its abstracted

essence with Heaven in variable) yet as to men alterable in all ages, the lesse private persons unhinge their braines in conside∣ration of it. certainly their night rests will be more quiet— But,

Caelum ipsum petimus stultitia, neque Iracunda Jovem ponere fulmina patimur.Horat,

Wee shoot at Starres, and vainly ayme to stop Iove's Thunderbolt, as 'tis about to drop.

Such is the presumption of this age, that men sin advisedly in swallowing up generall freedomes by speciall interests; some are as preposterous in hurrying the wheels of Reformation to fast downe hill, dangering the very Axell-tree of its whole car∣riadge, as others are to Curious in avoydance of shallow rakes, wherein she cannot sink deep; others say a Sledge without wheels may serve a Lady of her condition that will (they think) convey her from Constable unto Constable well enough, and time enough for any necessity, or haste there is of her pro∣gresse.

The honest well affected Country man who thinks all things can, or should be perfected with one Swap, now the King is gone, may seem to be the first, with whose not well guided rea∣son, perhaps a few discontented private persons among'st our Armie may jump also.

Next those, will follow the temperate meere Divine in the se∣cond resemblance, and as subservient unto him, a Brace of his best Parishioners (commonly old Gentlemen; good hunts-men) these could be content with a Reformation, But are afraid of her looks, and necessary attendance.

Into the last resemblance, Lawyers must most properly be re∣dacted Analogically, ours is, say they, a profession, and it can be no sin for a man to follow his calling: But I feare, to take issue with Heaven upon a dispute, that for the maintenance of their families, and for avoyding the Caracter of one of Pauls Infidells in not providing for our charges, we traced corrupt practices, will at Gods tribunall, prove a very sleevelesse allegation, when Madam Justice shall file in Heavens most Christian Court, a

provocation against fac simile Clerks, where I say, quaint pro∣testations by way of exclusion, shall not hinder taking issue upon the whole matter, no Jurisdictions of a Court incapacitated can be pleaded; no errors alligned afterwards, in a word no essoign nor imparlence can be admitted. While we persevere in screwing rigor of general lawes, up to the height of injury, we are a burden unto our fellow Subjects, we weaken the esteem of the common-lawes wholesome constitution, and mainly suffocate possibilities of felicities attingible by the publick, we hand Reformation from one to another, bewilder our selvs, and hazard our future safety.

But integrity is the best policy, and as a Lawyer lately upon a∣nother occasion did affirm: That al the lawyers in England could not make one case law, which was not reason: so let us uani∣moufly pray our practise may be regulated in its exorbitances by reason, and vindicated from those many just aspersions it groaneth under, least though the bread of deceit be sweet our mouths may afterwards be gravelled.

For present, My thoughts are no longer mine own. This corolla∣ry caution I shall leave unto all sober men of the three qualifica∣tions prereflected upon, That they would well consider how dange∣rous a New Representative may prove, till Ireland be fully re∣duced, and people fixt into a better sence of their Duty: regarding that no wise Neighbouring Nations will commend in us, a dis∣impowring experienced men from winding up their long labours into a Bottom, whose honors, lives, and fortunes are reciprocally involved in the extreme diffusion of Policy for generall safety: It is our defection from present Patriots all discontented parties at∣tend, as their last and secret stratagem for our further disquiet; which sad consequence, after so vast expence of blood and treasure may concern every discerning spirit to deprecate.

FINIS.

Notes

• Ego & Rex meus.
• See Basili∣con Do∣ron lac. Regis pag. 90 lib 2.