stead shall Bleed A Sacrifice our God has for himself provided so in the dayes to come the Blessed Messia bleeding for lost Man shall purge his Sins and once more render frailâ— Mortality the favorit of Heaven The Conclusion The Ram is by Glad Abraham slain and made A Sacrifice that pleases well his God Which done with Isaack he returns to tell Vnthinking Sarah all that had befell And has his Faith imputed Righteousness Call'd Friend of God the chiâ—f in Faithfullness Now Abraham is already at the foot of the Mountain he commands his Servants away he takes his only Isaack he loads him with the Instruments of his punishment Let us go my dear Child let us go my Son let us go my Isaack my Joy my Hope and my Love Father whither do we go answered Isaack Alas what is your desire I indeed see the Fire and the Sword which you carry as also the Wood on my Shoulders but where is the Victim which must be offered as an Holocaust My Son trouble not your self for God will provide one So Abraham still persists in his fidelity to God he makes ready the Altar he sets the Wood in order he kindles the Fire he draws his Sword out of the Scabbard he takes Isaack into his Arms he placeth him near the pile he tyes his Hands and puts the cover over his forehead in sine this innocent Lamb being on both his Knees his Body half naked and his Head bowed a little forward sighing sweetly without making the least complaint or demanding any more why expected the stroak of Death when his Father as it is very probable began to acquaint him with the secret of his happy lot Isaack my most dear Son thou didst ask me at the foot of the Mountain where was the Victim of our Sacrifice I answered thee that God woulâ— provide one his Paternal Goodness hath done it and his will iâ— that thou must be the Victim and I the Priest it is very true that thou art the object of my sweetest hopes and that I should look on thee as the support of my â—ouse but it is in God we must place our only hope it is he that serves for a Basis and Piller to all fortunes and it is his sage Providence which holds in its hands good and evil favours and disgraces Life and Death Dye then cheerfully my dear Child and rest assured that I would willingly put my self in thy place if God had so ordained I adore his will and I am too happy to serve as an instrument unto his commands As for thee my poor Son I had very constant proofs of thy sweet disposition and if I had not often tryed how obedient and pliable thou art unto Gods will and mine I should endeavour more efficaciously to perswade thee but it would be fruitless and it is from Gods goodness and thy constancy I hope for the Grace of being inabled to offer and immolate thee with my own Hands What can Isaack say to this It is enough for him to assent and be silent I yet frame in my imagination that he besought his Father to give him his Sword that he might kiss it as the rod of the wise Providence of Heaven I believe also he bowed down his Head a little more forward to testifie that his thoughts accorded with his Heart and that his most real affections were ready to be immolated unto God and his Father In the mean while Abraham takes his Sword again into his Hand and having bathed it with his tears he lifts up his arm to discharge his blow upon the Neck of his Son But what will be the issue will not all the Angels of Heaven who look upon this Sacrifice put some Victim in Isaacks place Divine Spirits I call on you for Abraham and Isaack In conclusion as Abraham had already lifted up his Arm and was ready to dart the Thunder-bolt God had put into his Hand the Voice of an Angel cryes out Abraham Abraham I command thee from God not to touch the Child and to pass no farther Ah Lord never was Love like thine And thy Love O God to me Surpasseth that of Abraham to thee The word is out poor Abraham must be gone Must take his Isaack take his only Son The Son of his affections him from whom From whose blest Loins so many Kings must come Even him must Abraham slay Abraham must rise And offer Isaac a Burnt-Sacrifice God scorns the offals of our saint desires He gives the best and he the best requires Abraham forbears to question thinks not good To reason or converse with Flesh and Blood Begs not young Isaack's Life nor goes about T'object the Law of Murther makes no doubt He rises rises early leads his Son Hastes where this Holy slaughter must be done When God bids go that very Breath's a Warrant We must not linger for haste crowns the Errant His Servants must no further they must stay Private Devotions claim a private way They must abide with th' Asses whilst th' aged Sirâ— In one Hand takes the Knife in th' other Fire The sacred Wood of offering must be pil'd On the young shoulders of the innocent Child Oh here mine Eyes must spend a Tear to see Thee bear the Wood great God that since bore thee Mistrustless Isaack seeing the Wood the Fire The sacrificing Knife begins to inquire But where 's the Sacred Lamb that must be slain Resolved Abraham least the Flesh should gain Too much on Nature sayes Not thou my Son Art he But th' Almighty will provide us one Where God commands 't is not enough to effect But we must baulk the occasion of neglect The Faithful Abraham now erects an Altar Orders the Wood what Tongue can chuse but faltes To tell the rest He lays his Hand upon His innocent Isaack binds his only Son He lays him down raiseth his Priestly Knife Vp rears his Arm to take his Isaack's Life True Faith is active coveâ—s to proceed From thought to action and from will to deed Before the strengthened stroke had time to fall A sudden voice from Heaven cryes hold recall Thy threatning Arm and sheath thy Holy Knife Thy Faith hath answered for thy Isaack's Life Touch not the Child thy Faith is throughly shown That has not spared thine own thine only Son How easie is our God and Labour who Counts it as done what we have will to do CHAP. XIX Giveing an Account of the Death of Sara THe most smiling prosperities often swim amidst Tears the clearest and most serene dayes are followed sometimes by the most obscurest dusky Nights Bodies for Companions have their own shadows Roses are mixed with Thorns and even the Life of Man never ends but in Death To see Abraham Sara and Isaack after their deliverance and the tryals God had of their fidelity would not one have believed them almost immortall and exempted from all the miseries of Life And yet scarce were they returned to their own home but
my Friend my dear Husband would you did but know what hath happened since I was absent from you Not far from hence I met a Serpent of a Prodigious and extraordinary shape he also spake to me contrary to the use of Beasts For my part I did believe that he was a Prodigy of Heaven and an Angel which God sent me under the form of a Serpent He shewed me the Tree of Life and promised me that if I would Eat of is's Fruit I should become like unto God and have a perfect knowledge of Good and Evil I told him that God had forbid it us upon pain of death but he protested to me that on the contrary this fruit hath the Iuice of Life and Immortality For my part I have gather'd it I have eaten of it and I intreat you to tast as little of it as you please O God! how eloquent is the malice of a Woman and what powerfull charmes and perswasions hath she Her Lips and Mouth disâ—ill at once both Honny and Poyson her Tongue shoots forth Arrows of Death and Life her very looks are so many Lightnings which she mingleth with the darts of her Passions This is that which destroyed the Angel of the Terrestial Paradise the Monarch of the World and the Father of all Mankind He chose rather to disobey God than contradict his Wife For it was from his own Wife's hand he took this fatall Apple which would choak his Posterity O wretch What hast thou done Open a little thine Eyes and blush râ—ther at the sight of this Crime than at thy Nakedness Adam what hast thou done why doest thou hide thy 〈◊〉 Adam where art thou God calls thee thou must Answer thou must appear in vain is it to seek out â—hades and groves to oppose the Word who gives â—peech to the Dumb and those Eyes whose least glances make the day to break in the darkest Dungeons and greatest obscurities Adam what answerest thou Alas hast thou no pitty on thy self and all thy Children In conâ—lusion Adam layes the fault on his Wife the Woman accuseth the Serpent and instead of accusing themselves to sweeten the indignation of the Judge they make excuses to inkindle his Wrath and to render themselves unworthy of Pardon Ah! How far more prudently had both of them done if with bended Knees on the ground with tears in their Eyes with sighs from their Hearts and conâ—ession from their Mouths they had said unto God Lord take pitty on us and upon all our poor Children But alas they are wholy insensible they â—annâ—t acknowledge their offence wherefore no Clemency no Pardon Go then Serpâ—nt accursed of God go creep upon â—he â—arth and with shame trayl thy Body and thy Sâ—ales byting the Earth with thy Teeth It is thou â—hat hast unâ—appily seâ—uced the first of Woman-kind â—nd therefore War shall be eternally inkindled beâ—ween thee and the Woman As for thee O Woâ—an who wert the Origine and â—â—urce of Evil know that thy mâ—series shall dayly find â—â—plorable increâ—ses Moâ—â—over thou shalt conceive with â—â—in and shalt not 〈◊〉 forth thâ— Fruit but amidst the â—hrows of a painful Labour In fine thou shall be unâ—er the Command of Man And he shall be not only â—hy Master 〈◊〉 sometiâ—es thy Tyrant As for thâ—â— O Man Remove far from this Saâ—red aboad Go seek thy Bread at the price of thy â—weat and Blood go follow the Plow and Cart to â—e the Companion of Beasts and to cultivate the Earth which thy pride hath swollen up with Winds and covered with Thorns Brambles and Bryers Go whether thou pleasest but know that thy life shall be but a large course of misfortunes and a disastrous list where thou must continually wrastle with all Creatures and be the fatall mark of all sorts of accidents and mis-haps which in fâ—ne will give thee no repose till thou shalt return into the Bosom of the Earth For dust thou art and to Dust thou shalt return Gen. 3. Poor banisht Adam plows with sweat and pain The barren Earth and there in soweth Grain Eve fares as ill her Children she doth bear In grievous pain anâ— nurses them in fear Scarce were these destroying Thunder-bolts darted upon the head of Adam and Eve and consequently on all Mankind but an Angel invironed with Fire and Flames seized on the gate of Paradise and shut it for ever against these miserable and exiled Persons Alas why would not the Earth have rather swallowed them up And why would not that beautiful Garden which had been the Throne of their Innocence become at least the Sepulcher of their Sin But seeing it was not so Ah! Poor Children of Adam pittyful Reliques of an unfortunate Father let me addresse my self to you behold then your Patrimony the Rights of your Families and what Adam and Eve have left you for Legacies Let no Man hereafter be astonisht to see you wandring about Countries like Pilgrims and going from door to door in Cities with Tears in your Eyes sighs in your Hearts with dusty Hair and Sun-burnt Faces Let no Man â—e any more astonished to see you go bare-Headed and bare-Footed a Wallet on your Shoâ—lders and a Staff in your Hand for these are the portions of Sin Miserable Mortals the Earth from henceforth shall be to you but a Dark Prison Life but a Gally and the World but a great Chain of Misfortunes The Elements shall joyn in Arms against you The Fire shall inkindle frightfull Comets over your Heads The Air shall dart forth merciless Thunder-bolts upon your Houses The Sea shall raise its Billows against your Towers and the Earth shall be the Theater of Wars the Meadow in which the Plague shall Mow and the Field of Battail where all the powers of the World and Hell it self shall deliver you up to Tragick Combats In fine your Bodies shall be Subject to all sorts of Malaâ—ies and your minds to all kinds of Passions But Heark Heark Methinks now I hear already Eâ—vy grumbling and murmuring in the Heart of Cain I hear methinks the cry of Abel Let us therâ—fore observe a while what passeth CHAP. VI. The Murther of Abel and the Despair of Cain together with a supposed Dialogue between Conscience Tyrant Sin Cain and Abel Gen. 4. Cain and Abel after Sacrifice God accepts Abels Cain's be doth despise Cain inraged his Brother Abel slayes For which God Scourgeth Cain all his dayes ABEL was from his Birth of so sweet and facile so plyant and tractable a disposition a Aâ—am and Eve were even inforced to bestow on him their most tender affections Cain on the contrary who was his Elder Brother appeared to be of sâ— fierce and imperious a Nature that at length tâ— sweeten it they resolved to oblige him to cultivatâ— the Earth that his spirit might learn how to softeâ— the hardest of Elemens and to temper the harshnesâ— of his Courage Abel at the same time employed himself in keeping Sheep and guiding his Fathers Floâ—ks amidst
must render all the duties of â— Father to so amiable a Son before he was to be hiâ— Executioner and he must needs hear almost everâ— moment the voice of Isaack calling him Father whâ— went to mâ—rther him My God! What Preludes of death What preparâ—â—tion to a Martyrdom what Dialogue of Passions Whâ—â— affections what dissimulations what sorrows whâ—â— pleasures what hopes and what despairs A Fatâ—eâ— a Son a Priest a Victim Wood Fire a Sworâ— Iâ—aacks Eyes and Heart are fixed on his Father aâ—â— Abraham lost not the sight of Isaack but to behold bâ— God At every step this poor old Man sends a sigh 〈◊〉 Heaven to evaporate grief which being shut up redoâ—â—blâ—s the morâ— Surely my Heart even bleeds upon the baâ—â— thought of this pittifull object Alas How couâ—â— Abâ—aham look on the criminal Sword which was 〈◊〉 give the stroâ—k Where did he carry this â—nstrâ—â—ment of Gods Justiâ—e Me thinks I hear Isaack every step saying My Father and Abrahâ—â— aâ—â—swering Son take courage let us go my deâ—â— Child we draw near to Moria O God! what vision and what approaches Mountain of Moria hast thou no compassion will not thy Tops thy Rocks and thy Stones mollifie rigours at the fight of â—o tragick an act and which â—eems so unnaturall Mountain of Moria become thou a plain rather than put this poor old Man and this young Child to the trouble of ascending thy Top where they are going to erect an Altar and hew a Tomb. But what Nature cannot be sensible when her God deprives her of feeling and Moria must not have greater tenderneâ—â—es than the Heart of Abraham Let Abraham then perform resolutely the Office of God the Father and lâ—t not Isaack be ashamed with his own Blood to mark out the way unto Iesus of whom he was an Image and Figure Let Abraham take his Sword to strike off Isaacks Head and let Isaack take the Wood on his Shoulders which was provided to consume him A Dialogue between Abraham and Isaack The Argument Abraham long strugling with himself at lâ—st His bound dear Isaack on the Altar plac'd Acquaints him with Gods pleasure nor denies The Lad to be a williâ—â— Sacrifice But the dreaâ— stroak is by an Angel stai'd When in his stead a Rain's an Offering made Abraham In Isaack must my Seed be called and yet here must he die strange thoughts perplex me yet I must oâ—ey the will of him that gave me Being and with relenâ—less hand destroy the Son of my desire but God will have it so and 't is not â—or â—rail man to dispute his great Commands Isaack What means my Father by thus talking to himself O how his Countenance dos often change What cause can cause this mighty strugling in the Breast of Abraham Father dear Father speak say what 's the reason of this suddain Alteration Where is the Sacrifice You told me God would provide himself is it through disappointment that you grieve Nay Sir why turn you from me as displeased with him you often call'd your joy with him you use to dandle on your Lap and seem well pleased delighting in his Innocent discourse smiling at the pritty pastime and informing him that Kings and Princes should arise in his posâ—â—rity Abra. O me What shall I do Heav'ns high command on one hand urgesâ— and on the other Nature pleads telling me Isaack is my Son my unoffending Child mâ— Ages Sole delight in whom alone I promised my self such store of true felicitie Isaack Nay Father Father speak to me and tell me what 't is gâ—ieves you thus What makes these Winter Clouds sit on your Brow Why that Mâ—p of Sorrow in your Face Abra. O my Child it is a dreadfull cause thou the Sole comfort of my Age must here be made a Sacrifice my dear dear much loved Isaack must become the sport of Crackling Flames and have his Ashes scattered in the Wâ—nâ— Isaack How must I die O me what have I done Tell me tell me dear Father have I conspired your Death betrayed you to your Enemies or with vile Slander spotted your Immortal Fame Will you not speak Why do's my Father thus severely turn away his Eyes and with a fatall Knife threaten the Life of his poor helpless Son O tell me tell me but my Crime that I may die contented Abra. Alas there is no Crime in thee my Son 'T is Gods command that urges what I here intend the Great â—mmense Creator of the World desires thee as a sweet â—melling Savour to his Nostrils that he free thee from â—he miseries to come and take thee to himself Isaack And is it Gods decree that I must bleed Then welcome Death O Father fear not then to â—ake my Life contentedly I 'll Bleed to be with him â—hat gave me being Abra. O wretched Father that I am I now must do a deed at which the World will blush and all those â—remble who see no farther than â—rail Natures Eyes â—ermit but as for me the Eye of Faith gives me a prospect of much Glory in 't and that Gods promise that in Isaack shall my Seed be called will never fail for though my Son expire now by my Hand yet God can â—aise him soon to Life again and Recollect his scatter'd dust though driven into eâ—ery Wind. Isaack Why does great Abraham pause thus Strike Strike my Father see my willing Throat 's prepared to meet the stroak Heavens Anger will kindle at this cold delay and Burn like a Consuming â—ire Abra. O Man me Faith whilst thus with averted Eyes I strike the fatall stroak that penetrates my heart mean while that wretched Isaack Bleeds and wounds my Soul more deep than this dâ—structive Steel câ—n pierce Yet God the mighty God of Abraham must must be statisfied in Isaacks death and thus I prove my Faith Ah! why faulters my trembling hand What whirlwind's this that thus disturbs the Air What Cloud involving dazling brightness is it that descends What power invisible restrains me from pâ—rforming that which Heavens all glorious King Commands Angel Abraham Abraham Abra. How 's this A voice in Thunder too O dreadfull what amazment seizes me and yet I 'll Answer it Lord here am I thy Trembling Servant speaks Angel Abraham Abraham lay not thy Hand upon the Lad neither do thou any thing unto him for now I know that thou fearest God seeing thou hast not withheld thy only Son from him Abra. O Wonderfull O Goodness all Divine God mighty infinite Omnipotent and ever with sincerâ—st hearts to be Adored How How shall I express my self in praising as I ought a Majesty Tremendious that still beams his Loving Kindness on unworthy me See see my Son thy Life is safe Heaven will not let thee die Isaack Heaven's will be done If the Allmighty the All-glorious King command my â—reath without a murmur I 'll resign what his Bounty lent me to Improve for him Abra. 'T is well resolved my Son but see a Sacrifice prepared who in thy
it is good to enjoy the company of the Godly while they are living so it is not amiss if it will stand with convenience to be buried with them after death The old Prophets bones escaped a burâ—ing by being buried with the other Prophets and the Man who was tumbled into the grave of Elisha was revived by the virtue of his Bones And we read in the Acts and Monuments That the body of Peter Martyr's wife was buried in a dunghil but afterwards being taken up in the Reign of Q. Elizabeth it was honourably buried in Oxford in the Grave of one Frideswick a Popish-the-Saint to this end that if Popery which God forbid should over-spread our Kingdom again and if the Papists should go about to untomb Peter Martyrs Wifes Bones they should be puzzled to distinguish betwixt the Womans body and the Reliques of that their Saint so good it is sometimes to be buried with those who some do account pious though perchance in very deed they be not so The Lord do so to me and more also To ascertain Naomi of the seriousness of her intentions herein Ruth backs what formerly she had said with an Oath lined with an execration If ought but Death See here the large extent of a Saints love it lasts till Death and no wonder for it is not founded upon Honour Beauty Wealth or any other sinister respect in the party beloved which is subject to Age or Mutability but only on the Grace and Piety in him which Foundation because it alwayes lasteth the love which is built upon it is also perpetual Part thee and me Death is that which parteth one Friend from another Then the dear Father must part with his dutiful Child then the dutiful Child must forget his dear Father then the kind Husband must leave his constant Wife then the constant Wife must losâ— her kind Husband then the careful Master must be sundred from his industrious Servant then the industrious Servant must be sundred from his careful Master Yet this may be some comfort to those whose Friends death hath taken away that as our Saviour said to his Disciples Yet a little while and â—ou shall not see me and yet a little while and you shall see me again So yet a little while and we shall noâ— see our Friends and yet a little while and we shall see them again in the Kingdom of Heaven for nâ—â— miâ—â—umur sed prâ—mittumur we do not foregoe them but they go before us A Dialogue between Naomi and Ruth Argument Kind Ruth her Husband dead to Naomi Dâ—'s cleave resolving so to live and dy In all adversity she makes a Vow To follow her and her kind Aid allow To prop her Aged years when kindly she Accepts of her dear Daughters company Naomi SEe'st thou not that Orpah thy Sister has left me and is again returned to her People why should'st thou then remain since Heaven's Eternal King has taken to himself Chilion the dear Pledge of your tender Love there live happy since all hopes are vanished that from my aged Womb more Sons should spring Ruth Have I not lived with you these many years even when wall-breaking Famine bared the sun-burnt Fields and Men as well as Beasts by thousands fell to fat the Bosom of our Common Mother Naomi 'T is true you have but then Heavens plenteous hand showred blessings on me then my Husband and my careful Sons drew breath But now Ruth Now why Can you once imagine that want can cause my love to wast no for your own and my dead Chilions sake I 'll love you still and render you â—he Duty that becomes a Daughter in Law Naomi Thy tender years can never undergo the â—ardship that poor wandring Naâ—mi may meet with 〈◊〉 she can be setled in the place where first she â—rew her Breath therefore consider and whilst â—ou are in Moabs borders think of the plenty that â—bounds in your own indulgent Mothers Womb. Ruth I have already cast the business in my Mind and am resolved that Winters chilling Storms nor Summers scorching beat attended with the sharp Contests of poverty and pining want shall never part us Death it self in all his dismal shapes is not of force to shake my fixed determination Naomi You yet are young and have not strugled with Misfortunes nor contended with the world and therefore know not of what force they are consider how belated Naomi in her long Journey must be often forced to make the Ground her Bed and underneath some spreading Tree lie stretched Exposed to all the injuries of weather whilst soft sleep flys from her careful Breast and she with sighs and groans is forced to wound the murmuring Air. Ruth If upon some bleak Mountains top whose covering is Snow and Globes of Solid Ice where Winters lasting Tyranny still Reigns you should be forced 〈◊〉 make your Bed I 'de there repose This Arm should be your Pillow whilst your Daughter your obedieâ—â— Ruth froze to your side Naomi Could you do this Yet think again and well consider that old Age comes fast on me and I shall soon be summoned to the Grave where you being left a stranger in the Land of Israel and far from your Relations meet with much contempt and scorn from the proud Daughters of the Land Then will be the time of your repentance theâ— you 'll blame that ill starr'd day you left your Country and your Friends for the sad company of wretched Naomi Ruth Let that not trouble my dear Adopted Mother for when unfâ—iendly Death with his cold Icy hand shall grasp your Life I 'll mourn much like a Widdow Turtle till in floods of swelling Grief I 'm wasted to Eternity and then our bodies shall not be disjoyned but in 〈◊〉 Grave we 'll lie till our returning Souls shall wake 〈◊〉 drowsie courses and hand in hand we take our way to Heaven Naomi Can there be such constant Faith in Woman O thou glory of our Sex let me embrace thee Thus whilst my poor heart o'reflows with Joy O thou dear recompence of all my toils who makest amends forHusband and for Sons loss may Heavens Favours shour upon your Head and you be blessed in all you undertake Ruth Your kind Expressions are too large a retribution for what I have resolved but see the Morning Dawn salutes the World let 's lose no time but strait begin our Iourney to the wish'd Bethlehem of Juda. Naomi Be it as you have said my only Comfort and blest Solace of my age Conclusion Thus setting forth they unto Bethlehem came Where Naomi desired to change her Name As griev'd at her great loss but in the end Rich Boaz weds Ruth and soon becomes her Friend Ruth Soon grows fruitful and from her does spring The Lineal Rank good David Israels King Dagons Fall before the Ark. The Sins of Israel growing great Gods rage Was bent against his Chosen Heritage Old Ely's Sons polluting holy things And with vile Haâ—ds disdain the
judge More like a Dreadfull City then a Bridge And glancing then along the Northern shore That princely Prospect doth Amaze him more For in this Garden Man delighted so That rapt he wish't not if he awak't or no If he beheld a True thing or a Fable Or Earth or Heaâ—'n all more â—hen admirablâ— For such Excess his extasie was small Not having Spirit enough to muse withall He wisht him hundred-fold redoubled Senses The more to tast so rare sweet Excâ—â—lâ—ncies Not knowing whither Nosâ— or Ears or Eyes Smâ—ll heard or saw more Savours Sounds or Dies Immediatly after God resolved to give him a Companion for it was not convenient that Man should be all alone For this end he closed Adam's Eye-lids and charmed his senses by a Heavenly Sleep which thâ— Major part of the Greek Fathers according to thâ— Translation of the Septuagint call an extatick and ravishing repose This man then thus rapt in his Extasy felt not Gods hand which gently and without pain plucked out a Rib whereof he formed the first Woman who was immediatly brought unto Adam to be his Companion and his dear Moity Scarce had Adam cast his Eyes on her but he cryed out Ah these are Bones of my Bones and this Flesâ— was drawn out of my Flesh just as if he had said Come O my Love the dearest portion of my self you shall be from henceforth my Wife and I will be your Husband We will be but one Heart in two Bodies And though â—e have two Souls we will have at least but one Mind and Will Now after this profound and pleasing trance No sooner Adams ravisht Eyes did glance On the rare beauties of his New-come-half But in his Heart he 'gan to leap and laugh Kissing her kindly calling her his Life His Love his Stay his Rest his Weal his Wife His other-self his help him to refresh Bone of his Bone Flesh of his very Flesh. Source of all joyes sweet He-Shee coupled one Thy Sacred Birth I never think upon But ravisht admire how God did then Make two of one and one of two again O Blessed Bone O happy Marriage Which dost the match 'twixt that and us presage O chastest Friendship Whose pure Flames impaâ—t Two Souls in one two Hearts into one Heart Oh Holy knot in Eden instiâ—uted Not in this Earth â—ith Blood and wrongs polluted This done the Lord commands the happy pair With chast embraces to replenish fair Th' unpeopled World that while the World endures Here might succeed their living Portraictures Wives and Husbands learn then from hence a lesson which teacheth you the Laws of Conjugall Love and what powerfull Motives you have to live in Unity and in a most perfect and holy Union Let Man remember that he is the Master but not a Tyrant Let Women also never forget their own extraction and that they were not produced out of the Head as Queens nor out of the Feet as Servants and Slaves but out of the Side and near the Heart to the intent they may spend all the time of their Marriage in a most sweet Intelligence and in a most inviolable society To which Love having given a beginning nothing but Death alone is able or at least ought to Dissolve it But now the Nuptials of Adam and Eve being past nothing remains but the Banquet The Tables are already furnished and they need but choose amongst all the Disâ—es of the World that which shall appear to them the most Delicious They are Masters of all that Flys in the Air of all that Swims in the Water of all that Creeps or Walks on the Earth Bâ—iefly of all Fruits that are in the Terrestiall Paradice they have the choice and amongst all the Trees which God had Planted there hâ— only reserved the use of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil of which he Expresly and upon pain of Death forbids these two guests to gather any Fruit. In this Conjuncture of time the Moon began to assemble her shadows and God finding all his Works perfect entred into his repose with the Seventh Day Adam and Eve enjoy then at present all that their Hearts can desire They possess the Monarchy of the Universe for their Inheritance and Government Their Empire extends over all out-bounds and limits the Winds do not blow but at their pleasure the Rivers and Streams do not Rowl along but at their Command the Birds do not tune their Warblinâ— Notes but to afford them delight In a word they are as it were the Gods of the Terrestiall Paradise and partake in a manner of all the delights which can be tasted in Heaven And now therefore we may suppose Eve thus to bespeke her Husband or better self in the following manner Wherein you have a brief account of what befell them after their Fall viz. 1. Eves first addresses to Adam and her Industry in making a Garment for her Husband Sweet-heart quoth she and then she Kissed him My Love my Life my Bliss my Ioy my Gem My Souls dear Soul take in good part I prithee This pretty Present that I gladly give thee Thanks my dear all quoth Adam then for this And with three Kisses he requites her Kiss Then on he puts his painted Garment new And Peacock-like himself doth often view Looks on his Shadow and in proud amaze Admires the hand that had the art to cause So many several parts to meet in one To fashion thus the quaint Mandilion 2. Adam and Eves Winter Sutes But when the winters kâ—ener breath began To Cristallizâ— the baltick Ocean Our Grand-sire shrinking gan to shake and shiver His Teeth to Chatter and his Beard to quiver Spying therefore a Flock of Muttons coming Whose Freze-clad bodies feel not Winters numing He takes the fairest and he nocks it down Then by good hap finding upâ—n the Down A sharp great Fish-bone which long time before The Roaring flood had cast upon the shore He Cuts the Throat fleyes it and spreads the fell Then dries it pares it and he scrapes it well Then Cloathes his Wife therewith and of such Hides Slops Hats and Doublets for himself provides 3. Their Lodging and first Building A Vaulted Rock a hollow Tree a Cave Were the first Buildings that them shelter gave But finding th' one to be too-moist a hold Th' other too narrow th' other over-cold Like Carpenters within a Wood they choose Sixteen fair Trees that never Leaves do loose Whose equall front in quadran form prospected As if of purpose Nature them erected Their shady bows first bow they tenderly Then enter braid and bind them curiously That one would think that had this Harbor seen 'T had been true Seeling painted-over green 4. At length they get better Habitations Afther this triall better yet to sence Their tender flesh from th' Airy violence Vpon the top of their sit-forked Stems They lay across bare Oken boughs for Beams Then these again with Leavie boughs they load So covering close their
sorry Cold abode And then they ply from the Eaves unto the Ground With Mud-mixt Reed to wall their Mansion round All save a hole to the East-ward situate Where strait they clapt a Hurdle for a Gate Instead of Hinges banged on a With Which with a slight both Shuts and Openeth 5. Their first Invention of Fire Yet Fire they lackâ— But lo the Woods that whistle Amidst the Groves so oft the Lawrel justle Against that Mulberry that their angry Claps Do kindle Fire that burns the Heath bour Cops When Adam saw a râ—ddy vapor rise In glowring Streams as turnd with fear he slies It follows him untill a naked Plain The greedy fury of the flame restrain Then back he turns and coming somewhat nigher The kindled Shrubs pâ—rceiving that the fire Driâ—s his dark Cloathes his Colour doth refresh Anâ— un-benums his Sinâ—ws and his Flesh By th' unburnt end a good big brand he takes And hying home a fire he quickly makes And still maintains it till the Starry Twins Celestial breath another Fire begins But Winter being come again it grieved him T' have lost so fondly what Relieved him Trying a thousand wayes sitâ— now no more Thâ— justling Trees his damage would restore While else where musing one day he sate down Vpon a steep Rock craggy-forked crown A foaming Beast come towards him he spies Within whose Head stood burning Coals for Eyes Then suddenly with boisterous Arms he throws A knobby Flint that hummeth as he goes Hence flies the Beast th' ill-aimed flint shaft grownding Against the Rock and on it oft rebounding Shivers to Cinders whence there issued Small sparks of fire no sooner born then dead This happy chance made Adam leap for Glee And quickly calling his cold Company In his left hand a sâ—ining Flint he lâ—cks Which with another in his right he knocks So up and down that from the coldest stone At every stroke small lively Sparkles Shone Then with the dry Leaves of a withered Bay The which together handsomely they lay They â—ake the falling fire which like a Sun Shines clear and smok-less in the Leaf begun 6. Eves Mouth at first serves in stead of a pair of Bellous Eve Kneeling down with hand her head sustaining And on the low ground with her Elbow leaning Blows with her Mouth and with her gentle blowing Stirs up the heat that from the dry Leaves glowing Kindles the Read and then that hollow Kex First fires the small and they the greater Sticks CHAP. V. â—herein you have an account of the Disasters and Banishment of Adam and Eve out of Paradice with a supposed Dialogue between Adam and Eve and likewise between Eve and the Serpent Gen. 3. The Woman 's tempted by the Serpents whiles To eat the Fruit she strait the Man beguiles A Cherub chaseth them with Sword and Fire Out of fair Edens Garden in great Ire ADam and Eve are happy but how long will this happiness endure Doth Adam rememâ—er that he is a Man and a Man of Earth Doth Eve well understand that her Sex is moâ—e Light â—ore frail and less constant Adam art thou Ignoâ—ant that nothing is more flattering and more cunâ—ing than a Woman when her mind is excited by â—ome passion Beware then Adam of this Woman â—or my own part I imagine to have in a manner seen her â—ehind a Tree and to my thinking I have heard her â—â—eak something unto a Serpâ—nt The Serpent if I mistake not first beginning to â—ialogue with her after the following manner viz. â—erp Not eat Not tast Not touch Not cast an Eye Upon the Fruit of this fair Tree And why Why eatest thou not what Heaven ordained for Food Or can'st thoâ— think that bad which Heav'd call'd Go od Why was it made if not to be enjoy'd Neglect of Favours makes a Favour void Blessings unus'd pervert unto a Wast As well as Surfeits Woman do but tast See how the Laden Boughs make silent suit To be enjoy'd Look how the bending Fruit Meet thee half way Observe but how they crouch To kiss thy Hand Coy Woman Do but touch Mark what a pure Vermilion blush has di'd Their swelling cheeks and how for shame they hide Their Palsie Heads to see themselves stand by Neglected Woman do but casâ— an Eye What bounteous Heav'n ordained for use refuse not Come pull and Eat Y' abuse the thing ye use not Eve Wisest of Beast our Great Creater did Reserve this Tree and this alone forbid The rest are freely ours which doubtless are As pleasing to the Tast to the Eye as fair But touching this his strict Commands are such 'T is Death to Tast no less then Death to Touch. Serp. Pish Death 's a Fable Did not Heav'n inspire Your equall Elements with Living Fire Blown from the spring of Life Is not that breath Immortall Come ye are as free from Death As he that made you Can the flames Expire Which he has kindled Can ye quench his Fire Did not the Great Creatours voice proclaim What ere he made from the blew Spangled frame To the poor Leas that trembles very good Blest he not both the Feeder and the Food Tell Tell me then what danger can Accrue From such blest Fruit to such half Gods as you Curb needless fears and let no fond Conceit Abuse your freedom Woman take and Eate Eve 'T is true we are immortal Death is yet Vnborn untill Rebellion make it debt Indeed I know the Fruit is good untill Presumptuous disobedience make it ill The Lips that open to this Fruit's a Portall To let in Death and make immortall mortâ—ll Serp. You cannot die Come Woman tast and fear not Eve Shall Eve transgress I dare not O I dare not Serp. A fraid Why draw'st thou back thy tim'rous Arme Harm only faâ—ls on such as fear a Harm Heav'n knows and fears the virtue of this Tree 'T will make ye perfect Gods as well as hee Stâ—eâ—ch sorth thy Hand and let thy fondness never Fear Death Do Pull and Eat and Live for ever Eve 'T is but an Apple and it is as good To do as to desire Fruit's made for Food â—le pull and tast and tâ—mpâ— my Adam too To know the Secrets oâ— this dainty Serp. Do. EPIGRAM Vnluckey Parliament Wherein at lâ—st Both Houses are agree'd and firmly pâ—st An Act of Death confirm'd by higher powers O hâ—d it had but such Success as ours And now Eve being thus seduc't by the Serpent we may suppose Adam Advancing up to her bespeaking her after the following manner viz. Adam From whence dost thoâ— come anâ— why doest thou leave him all alone who is the heart of thy heart and the soul of thy soul Where can be the Members without the Head the Head without the Members What doest thou not know that I am to be witâ—ess of all thy Actions and that I must give an account unto God for what thou shalt doe what fruit is this that thou hold'st in thy hand Eve Ah my Son
Abraham and Isaack met with a new occasion of grief for the Death of Sara But so it is the strictest unions must break the sincerest friendships must have an end and even Mâ—rriages themselves of which God was the sacred knot must at length make a Tragick Divorce upon a Bed which is the most common Theater of the blind furies of Death We ought to confess nevertheless that it is a spectacle able to excite the constancy of a good Courage when we shall behold this unmercifull Murdress which snacheth away Daughters out of their Mothers Bosoms and Sons in the sight of their Fathers and Wifes between the Arms of their Husbands In such a case if Nature had not some tenderness she would be unnaturall and we must have Hearts of Marble not to be touched with some sense of grief and pitty Abraham had then just cause to testifie by his tears the regret he had for his dear Sara's Death and surely since he lost so rare a blessing well might he disconsolately bewayl it This mourning was not yet blameable and he was very carefull not to doe like those who bury all their affections in the preparation of a Funerall pomp and who have but a shadowed meen or else not being able sufficiently to disguise their looks strive to hide under the Veils and shadows of a Bed or dark Chamber the shame of their insensibility Abraham shed more tears from his Heart than by his Eyes and in rendring all duties to Nature and his Wife he most amply satisfied God and his own piety while he was a Pilgrim and stranger in the Land of Canaan Sara being Dead in the City of Hebron he went directly into the place where his Wifes Body reposed There he offered up his Prayers unto God and kiss'd a thousand times those amiable reliques watering them from time to time with his tears He presently intreated Ephron to sell him a double Cave which was close by the vale of Mambre to interr Sara in that place Ephron is willing to grant what he asketh but being at last as it were inforced to take a sum of Money for the purchace of his Land Abraham became Master of the Field and Groat in which he laid the Body of his dear moity It is in this monument where the most generous Woman of her time reposeth and under this Rock of Diamond will be found a Diamantine Heart in the Body of Sara who was a perfect pattern of Constancy and Fidelity CHAP. XX. Giveing an account of the Mariage of Isaack with Rebecca and the Death of Abraham Gen. 24. The fair and chast Rebecca comes to draw At a Well-Water where a Man she saw Who gifts to her in Isaacks Name presents Which she accepts and to Wed him consents THis poor Man Abraham was in the Hands of God and Providence as a feather in the Air which serves for sport unto the Winds and as a Planet in the Heavens which never rests or as a Wheel in the Water which is alwayes turning and in a continual motion God led him out of Chaldea Mesopotamia Canaan and Egypt from thence he causeth him to return unto the Cananites where he stays for some time in the City of Sichem sometime in that of Hebron afterwards in â—erara and then in Bersheba and again in Hebron as if he could not live but in Travelling during whose Voyages Heaven is pleased to afford him a thousand Combats and as many occasions of Victory In fine after the deliverance of his Son and the death of his Wife he feeling himself wholy broken with old age and upon the point of following the happy lot of Sara resolved to seek a Wife for Isaack and for that end he calls one of the most Faithfull Servants of his House called Eliezer and having commanded him to lay his Hand under his Thigh he conjured him by the name of God to seek a match for his Son in the Land of Haram Which being done this wise Embassador chosen amongst the Domesticks of Abraham began his journey to execute the designs and Commission of his Master and departing from Bersheba he went directly to Mesopotamia carrying with him ten large Camels loaden with the rarest and most magnificent presents which were in Abrahams House Behold him then in the City of Nachor meditating with himself upon all the readiest and most facile means to expedite what had been given him in charge What will he do First he departs out of the City and repairing where Women in their turns were wont to draw Water he there rest his Camels expecting untill Heaven should offer the opportunity he desired During this expectation he offered up his prayers unto God saying Lord God of Abraham cast I beseech thee some propitious and favourable looks upon the designs of my Master This Faithfull Servant will not feed untill He do his trust reposing Masters will There 's many now that will not Eat before They speed their Masters Work they 'l drink the more Great God take pitty of Abrahâ—m thy Faithfull Servant it is by his appointmenâ— I am in these territories I expect here but the hour when the Maid shall come to draw Water out of this Fountain iâ— then My God thou dost give me this advice I resolve no entreat the first which shall approach it to afford me some Water to drink if she grant me this favour by this sign I shall presently believe that it is doubtless she whom thy holy Providence hath appointed for Isaacks Spouse Scarce had Eliezer ended his Coloquie when a Malâ— called Rebecca appeared fair and chast as the Day who carried under her Arm an Earthen Pitcher to take up Water Eliezer presented himself humbly beseeching her to afford him some drink to which Rebecca presently assented performing all that Curtesie and Charitie required The holy Scripture observes that Eliezer very seriously contemplated all the actions of Rebecca as being a Myrrour in which he was to discern the marks of Gods conduct concerning Abraham and Isaack In fine this prudent Man chose a fit time to present unto Rebecca some Ear-rings and Bracelets Afterwards he informed himself of the conveniencies which were in the House of his Maids Parents who spake unto him Being then well instructed concerning the alliances of Rebecca and what was in her House seeing also that all corresponded with his desires he threw himself on the ground to render thanks unto his God and to adore his ineffable goodness towards Abraham Mean while Rebecca hastens to her Parents to bring them the first news of what had passed whereof her Brother whose name was Laban having taken notice he went presently unto the Well from whence Rebecca came Finding Eliezer he most affectionatly intreated him to visit his Fathers House and having conducted him thither he immediately gave Hay and Straw to his Camels afterwards he washed his Feet as also the Feet of those who came with him Then Eliezer took occasion to publish the Commission which
had been given him and the artifices he had used to bring them to a Head and to understand whether it were the will of God that Rebecca should be Isaacks Wife Eliezer could not doubt it and Rebecca but too much testified by her silence that her desires consented thereunto Bathuel and Laban were also of this opinion and therefore they were to dispose themselves to the commands of God The promise then of Marriage being given on both sides Eliezer made presents to Rebecca and her Brethren after this there was nothing but Feasts and adieus to the Kindred of this new promise briefly some Dayes must be spent in rendring those duties which Honour and Nature required At last Rebecca took leave of her Mother and Brethren she with Eliezer and his Servants got up upon Camels and they advanced with the best diligence they could to arrive at Aâ—rahams House Isaack who was allwayes in expeâ—tation first received the news of Rebecca's arrival I leave to your thoughts what Ioy what Kisses and what Embraces However it were Rebecca is brought into the same apartment which Sara had wâ—ile she lived and immediately the Marriage of Isaack with Rebecca was accomplished according to the Ordinances of Heaven and the desires of Abraham who after this Marriage took a Wife called Ketura by whom he had six Children who served to carry their Fathers Name and Blood through numerous Generations But here by the way we may suppose Isaack to Salute Rebecca upon her first Arrival after the following manner viz. A Dialogue between Isaack and Rebecca upon their first meeting Isaack Welcome welcome to my happy Arms so made by this Embrace my joy my life my love my better part how Gracious is the God of Abraham in sending Isaack such a treasure Rebecca Alas my Lord you make me blush to see you transported at this rate for one not worthy of Great Abrahams Son some Queen with Kingdoms to her dowâ— had been more suitable than I. Isa. Not all the Queens the Eastern Countries yield cou'd have been half so welcome to my Arms as my dear joy my much loved and much admired Rebecca O thou Phaenix of the World let not so mean a thought enter thy Breast as to conceive thine Isaack can esteâ—m the Glittering honours black Ambition brings or all the Glories that attend on pompeous Majesty comparable to the warm joys of Love that fire his Heart when his Rebecca smiles Reb. Alas Alas I blush to death if you proceed at this rate all I can afford you indeed is Love and that shall ne're be wanting my Arms shall still be open to receive you and my Brest sâ—are your Cares to do your will next his that made us shall be the height of my Endeavours never dareing to dispute what you my Lord Command Isa. This Humility makes thee more lovely in my Eye than beauteous Morn or Earth when decked with her ImbroideredLivery Innameld with ten-thousand different Fragrancys Reb. O you value me at too high a rate and I must make it the future business of my self to deserve such an Esteem Isa. Esteem Why words can ne're express the boundless love my Soul conceives thy Name was pleasant and transporting to my Ravished Ear e're I beheld thy pleasant Face adorned with so much dazling brightness that I scarce conceive my self on Earth So soft so kind so charming and so beauteous a Treasure Sceptered Monarchs would be proud to gain and count themselves in the possessions happyer than to command the Knees of supple Nations when their wastfull Sword had brought the World into subjection Reb. O you overvalue me at such a rate that you 'l make me more indebted to your tender Love than all the Service of my life can pay Isa. My Tongue cannot express thy worth nor tell the Limmits of my Love No more then but le ts to our Bridal Chamber that my Actions may supply my Tongues defect and there transported on thy dear Bosome in soft Murmurs breath my passion forth till thy bless'd Womb grows pregnant with the Issue of our Loves and thou become the soft kind Mother of a hundred Princes Reb. My Lord I 'm all obedience what your will 's my Law as now intirely yours to be disposed of at your pleasure Isa. Then thus we go a Heaven united pair To Reap the joys that past expressions are From our chast Loves let all a pattern take Which must the Sons of Men thrice happy make And be a means to lift their Soulâ— above The World where all is Joy and sacred Love But to proceed amongst all the Children of Abraham Isaack is the Master of the House and Heir to all the possessions of Abraham I leave men to think as they please in what Ocean of delights Abrahams Heart did Swim seeing all the Graces wherewith God had filled him I am astonished why he dyed not a thousand times for Joy at the sight of Isaack and his dear Wife who had no affections but for God for him and for the generall good of his family But Abraham must render unto Nature the ordinary tribute due unto her This happy old Man this Father of all the faithfull this King of Nations this incompareable Patriark having lived like a Pilgrim upon Earth was obliged at lâ—st to arrive at the Haven and to die in the Arms of Isaack and Ishmael who buried him in the saâ—e place where his Wife was intered When Natures health in Abraham was spent Death doth distraine his Life for Adams rent His Sons do leave their Fathers Corps in Grave Vnder an Oak where stands a double Cave CHAP. XXI Giveing an account of the Birth of Jacob and Esau. AT the earnest request of Isaack Heaven was obliged to grant that at last which a long time before God had promised him and in conclusion therefore behold Rebecca great with Child and ready to lye down But as the pleasures of the World are not durable so she quickly feels the approaches of her labour They are no other than pains and throws and her Womb seemed to be a thick Cloud of Thunders and a Field of Battle in which two little Children begin an intestine War against each other which cannot end but by the Destruction of the Mother or the death of her Children However it were she consulted God and God answered her that she bore too Nations in her Womb and that two People should issue forth of her Bowels one of which should Triumph over the other and the Elder be slave unto the Younger And Iacob though the Younger supplanted Esau who was his Elder Brother For this reason Iacob received his name for as his Elder Brother was stiled Esau because his whole Body was covered with rough Hair so Iacob was called Iacob because at the issuing sorth of his Mothers Womb he hâ—ld Esau by the soal of his Foot to testify that he would supplant him Is not this an early beginning to War with each other since
even seven years more entire to obtain Rachel Iacob it suffiâ—â—th to love her For in loving every thing is animated every thing lives every thing prospers and every thing passeth away most sweetly under the Laws of love and since it is not for a Man but for a Goâ— nor for a mortal beauty but for an immâ—rtâ—l happiness you captivate your self It was no trouble unto Iacob to receive this yoak seeing himself the posseâ—â—oâ— of his dear Rachel he resumed the Trade he had so happily begun and he believed that the shackles of his second service would not be less supportable than the former Behold him happy to see himself in a Bondage where he was a Servant to Laban and the Master of Rachel All his misfortune was only because he contemned Lea which prâ—ceeded from the excessive love he bore unto Rachel But God taking pitty of Lea rendreâ— her considerable by her Fruitfulness and by the Birth of four Sons the first of which was called Ruâ—en the second Siâ—â—on the third Levi and the fourth Iudas which were the four principal causes of Rachels envying Lea. Rachel will dye she sâ—ith if no Children be gâ—â—ven her What man I beseech you can bestow a saâ—vour which God hath reserved to himself Was 〈…〉 then a means to make Iacob dye seeing that 〈◊〉 Wife asked that which lay not in his power to give her It was requisit nevertheless that the goodness of God should aleviate the grief of this sad Mother giving unto her handmaid two Sons one of which was called Dan and the other Nepthalim God immediately after shewed the same favour to the Handmaid of Lea who brought forth Gâ—d and Asher After which Lea her self conceived of Issachar then of Zebulon and at last of a Daughter called Dinah It was by the means of these Generations God began to accomplish the Promise he had made to Abraham Isaack and Iacob And it was out of these first springs issued a thousand and a thousand streams of this blood of Patriarcks which was to overflow the fairest Lands of the Universe At that time Iacob saw the time approaching during which he had tyed himself to serve his Father-in-Law Laban Rachel nevertheless was troubled at her Barrenness But at length God heard her prayers and made her the Mother of a Son whose birth effaced all the marks of her shame and dishonour This Ioseph this miraculous Infant was the delight of his Parents the glory of Rachel the love of Iacob the wish and desire of both the support of his Family the King of all his Brethren the Saviour of his People anâ— the master-piece of the graces and favours of God A Dialogue between Balaam his Ass and the Angel Balaam puss't up with Pride dos take his way To Moabs King The Ass that 's wont to bray With Humane voice afright â—im till he see An Armed Angel urging Heav'ns decree Who lâ—ts him pass that Jacob blâ—st may be Balaam How am I Honour'd In what high Esteem is Balaam held That Moabs Princes thus attend his Morning wake and Kings become his supplicants Did they know what little power I have to serve them surely they would not be Solicitous at such a rate Alas Alas my Curses in this case are fruitless Iacobs God at whose dread Name I Tremble frustrates all my purposes and by his power dispoyles me of those jugling Arts wherewith I blinâ—ed the deludeâ— Eyes of Godless Nations Yet must I go and visit Balack or the King will storm at my delay Ha! Why stars my Ass Why croâ—ds she to the Wall the Coaâ—t is clear No dreadfull Apparition sure does represent it self to her Amazed Eyes How 's this The more with Stripes I load her the more she doth Recoile My Heart misgives Terror sâ—izes every part Ha! now she 's fallen and I 'm crusheâ— But with redoubled Stripes I 'll thus revâ—â—ge my self Ass. Wickâ—d and Sin bliâ—ded Man what means this cruelty to me Whâ—â— hâ—ve I done to thee that thou hast Smâ—tten me thâ—se three times Balaam Ha! Aâ—azment seizes me What is 't 〈◊〉 hâ—â—r or amâ—â—â—ur deladâ—d with tâ—e â—cho of sâ—me souâ—d râ—boâ—â—â—ing â—â—â—m the Neiâ—â—â—ouring Hiâ—â—s â—or what stâ—ang poâ—er can thâ—â— inspiâ—e a Brute with humane Voice to souâ—â— Aâ—â—â—ulâ—tâ— And yâ—t it seems no lâ—ss Wâ—at â—ave I â—one â—o thâ—e that thou hast 〈◊〉 me thâ—se three tiâ—â—s Where not they the words Yes yes they were But yâ—t sâ—av I 'll try agaiâ— if any â—urthâ—r â—ouâ—d râ—maiâ—s â—hy have Strickeâ— thee 〈◊〉 tâ—â—u Wâ—s thâ—re noâ— a reason for i◠〈◊〉 tâ—ou â—â—st 〈…〉 and O that thâ—re were Swoâ—d In my 〈◊〉 â—or noâ— woulâ— I Kill thâ—e Ass. Am 〈…〉 thine Ass upon which thou 〈◊〉 Riddeâ— ever siâ—ce I was thiâ—e to this day And 〈…〉 ever wont to do so unto thee Balaam Ha! Yet again O sâ—â—pendious and Amaâ—â—ing what can this speaking prodigie in Nature signifie or to what end tends it Sure Angry Heaven forbids my further paâ—sage and commands my swift return least dire destrâ—ction meet with me in the way Was I ever wont to do so unto thee were nâ—t they the last words Ay they were Why no thou diâ—est not but 't is now too soon Yet sure ther 's something further ment by those misterious sentences O miserable me my Eyes are open now and 't is too to plain The Ass was wiser thâ—n the Prophet A bright Heavenly Warriour with a flaming Sword wide wavering threatens me with present death Wretch that I am What shall I doe But falling prostrate strait implore his mercy Angel Balaam wherefore â—ast thou smitten thy Ass these three timâ—s Beholâ— I went out to withstand thee because thy way is preverse before me and the Ass saw me and turn'd from me these three times Vnless she hâ—d turneâ— surely now also I had Killed thee and saved her alive Balâ—am O mighty Lord spâ—re me poor wretched me Who with a strange Coâ—fusion must confess that through ignorance I have â—rovoked thy Anger and thâ—s â—inâ—â—d for I knâ—w not thâ—â— thou stoodest in the wâ—y against me Now therefore if it displease thee I will get me back again Angel No 't is the Allmighty God of Jacobs will you sâ—ou'd pâ—oceed but only the words that I shall speak unto thee that shalt thou speak bewar thou degress not leâ—st swift vengeance overâ—ake thee Balâ—am How sudâ—â—inly the glorious Apparition's vaniâ—h'd now I know that Israel is bless'd nor can my words prevail against them nor must I Curse the chosen of the Lord but bless them Even so transcendant happy are all those that put their trust in him But my Companions call I must away though my visit will be little pleasing to the King The Conclusion The Madbrain'd Prophet goes to Balack where He Sacrifices does with speed prepare And blesses Jacob which does much displease The King who gives him straite his Writ to Ease And sends him packing to his place again Where soon he 's by the Sword of Israel
mourns Though not a Blooâ—y Sâ—crifice as some Vainly believe but spends her dayes to come As a Recluse till Heaven is made her home Psal. 6.2 Have mercy Lord upon me for I am weak O Lord Heal me for my Bones are vexed Soul Jesus Soul Ah! Son of David help Iesus What sinfuâ—â— Crie Implores the Son of David Soul It is I. Jesus Who art thou Soul Oh! a deeply wounded Breast That 's heavie loaden and would sain have rest Jesus I have no Scraps and Dogs must not be fed Like Houshold Children with the Childrens Bread Soul True Lord yet tolerate a hungry whelp To lick your Crumbs O Son of David help Jesus Poor Soul what ail'st thou Soul O I 〈◊〉 I sry I cannot rest I know not where to fly To find some ease I turn'd my blubber'd Face From Man to Man I roll from place to place T' avoid my tortures to obtain relief But still I am dog'd and haunted with my grief My Mid-night torments call the sluggish Light And when the Mornings come they woo the Night Jesus Sir cease thy Tears and speak thy free desires Soul Quench quench my flames and swage these scorching Fires Jesus Caâ—st thou believe my Haâ—d can Curâ— thy Grief Soul Lord I believe Lord help my unbelief Jâ—sus Holâ— forth thy Arm and let my Fingers trâ— Thy Pulse where chiefly doth thy torment lye Soul From Head to Foot it reigns in every part But play 's the self-law'd tyrant in my Heart Jesus Canst thou Digest canst Relish wholsome Food How stands thy tast Soul To nothing that is good All sinfull trash and Earths unsav'ry stuff I can dig'st and relish well enough Jesus Is not thy Blood as cool as hot by turns Soul Cold to what 's good to what is bad iâ— burns Jesus How old 's thy Grief Soul I took 't at the fall With eating Fruit. Jesus T' is Epidemical Thy Blood 's infected and the infection sprung From a bad Liver 't is a Feaver strong And full of Death unless with present speed A vein be opened thou must dye or Bleed Soul O I am faint and spent that Lâ—unce that shall Let forth my Blood le ts forth my life withall My Soul wants Cordialls and has greater need Of Blood I being spent so far to bleed I faint allready if I bleed I dye Jesus T is either thou must bleed Sick Soul or I My blood 's a Cordiall He that sucks my Veins Shall cleanse his own and conquer greater pains Then these Chear up this precious blood of mine Shall cure thy Grief my Heart shall bleed thine Believe and view me with a faithfull Eye Thy Soul shall neither Languish Bleed nor Dye Epigram Canst thou be Sick and such a Doctor by Thou canst not live unless thy Doctor dye Strange kind of Grief that finds no Medicine goâ— To swage her pains but the Physicians Blood Psal. 143 2. Enter not into Judgment with thy Serâ—ant for in thy sight shall no man living â—e justified Iesus Iustice. Sinner â—esus Bring forth the Prisoner Iustice. Iust. Thy commands Are done just Judge See here the Prison'r stands 〈◊〉 What has the Prisoner done Say what is the cause Of this Commandment Iust. He hath broken the Laws Of his too Gracious God conspir'd the death Of that great Majesty that gave him breath And heaps transgression Lord on trangression 〈◊〉 How kâ—ow'st thou this Iust. Ev'n by his own confession His sins are crying and they cried aloud They cried to Heav'n they cried to Heaven for Blood 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 What say'st thou Sinner Hast thou ought to plead â—hat Sentence shall not pâ—ss Hold up thy head â—nd shew thy Brazen and rebellious face 〈◊〉 Ah me I dare not I 'm to vile and base â—o tread on the Earth much more to lift â—â—ine Eyes to Heav'n I need no other shrift â—han mine own Conscience Lord I must confesse â—m no more then dust and no whit less â—hen my inâ—ictment stiles me Ah! If thou â—â—arch too severe with too severe a Brow â—hat Flesh can stand I have transgressed thy Laws 〈◊〉 merits plead thy vengeance not my cause 〈◊〉 Lord shall I strike the blow Jes. Hold Iustice stay Sinner speak on what hast thou more to say Sinner Vile as I am and of my selfabhor'd I am thy handy-work thy Creature Lord Stampt with thy glorious Image and at first Most like to thee though now a poor accurst Convicted Caitiff and degen'rous Creature Here trembling at thy Bar. Just. Thy faul's the greater Lord shall I strike the blow Jes. Hold Justice stay Speak Sinner Hast thou nothing more to say Sinner Nothing but mercy mercy Lord my state Is miserable poor and desperate I quite renounce my self the World flee From Lord to Iesus from thy self to thee Just. Cease thy vain hopes my angry God has vow'd Abused mercy must have blood for blood Shall I yet strike the blow Jes. Stay Justice hold My Bowels yearn my fainting Blood grows cold To view the trembling Wretch Methinks I spy My Fathers Image in the Pris'ners eye Iust. I cannot hold Jes. Then turn thy Thirsty Bladâ— Into my sides let there the wound be made Chear up dear Soul redeem thy life with mine My Soul shall smart my Heart shall bleed for thine Sinner O groundless deeps O love beyond degree Th' offended dyes to set the offender free Epigram Mercy of mercies he that was my drudge Is now my Advocaâ—e is now my Iudge He suffers pleads and sentences alone Three I adore and yet adore but one Deutrenomy 32.29 O that Men were Wise and that they understood this that they would consider their latter end Flesh. Spirit Flesh. What means my Sisters eye so oft to pass Through the long Entry of the optick Glass Tell me what secret virtue doth invite Thy wrinkled eye to such unknown delight Spirit It helps the sight makes things remote appear In perfect view it draws the Objâ—ct near Flesh. What sense-delighting objects doth thou spye What doth the Glass present before thine eye Spirit I see thy Foe my reconciled Friend Grim Death even standing at the Glasses â—â—d His left hand holds a branch of Palm his right Holds forth a two-edg'd Sword Fle. A proper sight And is this all doth thy prospective please Th' abused fancy with no shapes but these Spirit â—â—es I behold the darkned Sun bereav'â— â—f all his light the battlâ—mâ—nts of Heav'n Shelâ—ring in flames thâ— Angel guarded Son Of Glory on his Tribunall-Throne I see a Brimstone Sea of boyling fire And fâ—inds with knotted whips of flaming Wire Torâ—er'ng poor Souls that kâ—ash their Teeth in vain Aâ—d knâ—w their flame tormentâ—d tongues for pain Look Sister how the queasy-stomack'd Graves Vâ—mit their dead and how the Purple waves Scald their Consumeless Bodies strongly Cursing All Wombs for Bearing and all Paps for Nursing Flesh. Can thy distempâ—r'd fancy take delight In view of Tortures these are shows t' affright Look in this Glass triangular look here Hear
shall hereafter blush to own therefore we 'll try Jonah In vain you strive to get a shore nor is there safety but in what I have advised 1. Mar. Then lay not Lord the blood of Innocence the blood of him that ne're offenâ—ed us to our sad charge if thus we give him to the Waves seeing we have no other way to save our lives 2. Mar. So now he 's doust in the Rough Billows Ha! a monstâ—rous Whale has suck'd him in anâ— now the Winds are still the Ocean leaves to Rage the Clouds are châ—st away bright day appears and all our Leaks are stop'd by Miracle 1. Mar. 'T is true though wonderous This was sure some Homicide or Altar Robber that thus provoke the Angry Powers but see we have with safety reach'd the wish'd for port The Conclusion Jonah cast Over-baord soon finds a Tomb In a dread Fishes huge insatiate Womb Who three dayes bearing him from Coast to Coast Him on dry Land with horrid Roaring tost When he to Nineveh do's hast and cry Against them for their great Iniquity Who concious of their Guilt bewaile their Sin And blunt God's Anger er'e their woes begin At which the Prophet being displeas'd the Lord Shows him his folly by a sensless â—ourd A Dialogue between Nebuchadnezzar Shadrach Meshach and Abed-nego The Argument Long tempted though in vain good Men at last Are by the Tyrant bouâ—d in Fetters fast Doomd to a â—iery Trâ—all for his sake Who Heaven and Earth the Sea and all did make Nebuchadnezzar How 's this can what I hear be true dare ye you preverse Captives still deny to fall on bended Knees and kiss the ground when you approach the Shrive of great Diana Know you not she is a Goddess by your King ador'd and humbly sought unto in all Events of Peace and War Shadrach We know no God nor Goddess but the God of Jacob whom with fear and Râ—verence we Serve and to no other dare we can we will we bow Neb. What Insolence is this is this an Answer fitting to return a Monark Know you not the great decree that is unalterably past and that your Lives are in my Hands Meshach All this wâ— know nor wou'd not could we help it disobey or disoblige the King but in the thing be now requâ—res we dare not be complyaâ—t The mighty God in whose dread Presence now we stand must be Obeyed rather than Man we must not Rob him of his Honour and give it to an other Neb. And these are your Resolves you will not Worship at the shrine of Gold I have set up but dare preversly break the firm decree Established by the Princes Abed-nego Our great Resolves O King are past and here we stand do with us as you please Neb. Wretches vile Slaves whom I exaulted to heights of honour in hopes you would comply with my Commands How dare you trifle with a Monarck at this rate when Death and Horrour sit upon his frowns I have been heitherto placeable mild which makes you yet more obstinate wherefore know that now all mercies Banish'd from my Brest in crackling flames you shall be broiled alive the fury of the fiery Furnace shall plainly speak the Anger I conceive and who 's then that God that shall deliver you out of my strong hands Shad. Your Anger mighty Monarck frights us not nor are we carefull to reply For if the mighty God whom we Adore the God who made all things and 〈◊〉 whose will the World and all that move in it depend 〈◊〉 let us fall to Glorifie his Name and in 's Eternal Wisdom thinks it not convenient to rescue us from the devouring flames know not withstanding we 'll patiently expire for his dear sake rather than prostrate our selves before base Idols the vain work of mortal hands Neb. Horror and Death her 's â—nsolence beyond degree Heat heat the burning Furnace with a Seavenfold Fire and cast them instantly into the flames that I may glut my well pleased Eyes to see them fry and that their cryes may prove sweet Musick to my Ears bind them in all their Gaitie to add more fuel to the Flames and that the terror may bâ— more gird every â—art with strongest Chains thaâ— they may be exposs'd the better to the circling Fires Meshach We smile to see a Monarck storm 〈◊〉 against those that are regardless of his Rage and stand prepared to bear what er'e his fury can inflict though we in ought have not transgrest against him Neb. My Gaâ—rds why are you slow in executing my Commands He dyes that disobeys a moment longeâ— So hence with e'm whilst I and my Nobles follow to behold the Spectacle The Conclusion In flames the Servants of Jehovah's Cast Their Chains fall off that lately bound them fast Whilst the sharp Element do's loose it's heat A whistling wind makes it a pleas'd retreat The Execution that that day was seen Was on the Men that durst to cast them in God saved his Chosen And his Angels sent The Monarcks Page to frustrate and prevent Whom be Amaz'd beholds to walk in Fire With those that were the subject of his Ire Calling them forth on them he finds no harm The gentle 〈◊〉 their Garments did not warm Which strange stupâ—ndious great deliverance Converts his Rage to Love and do's advance Jehovah's worth for the Kings decree Forbiâ—s loud to Praise to other Deitie A Dialogue between Darius and Daniel The Argument Daniel through envy is against the mind Of great Darius in a Den confin'd With hungry Lâ—ons who dâ— him no harm Gods Angel dos their furious fury charm Darius What horrid Dreams have terrified me 〈◊〉 my brâ—ken slumbers How has sweet sleep fled â—â—om my Eyes and tedious tossings made a restless night Sure it was because the Prophet is in danger from which a Monarck could not rescue him But now the Morning Dawns and I am at the fatal Den into which malitious Men have cast him as a Prey to hungry Lyons I 'll see if that great God he serves has hitherto preserved him from their rage O Daniel Daniel Servant of the highest speak it is a King your Friend that longs to hear your voice which would be Musick to his Ears Say say has God the God whâ—m you have served been able to deliver you Daniel Great Monarck live for ever thy Servant is in safety the God of Jacob at whose tremendious name I bend me to the dust has sâ—nt his Angel and has clos'd the rending Iaws of the stern Lyons causeing them to faun on me without a power to hurt since integrity in me was found before him nor in ought have I offended great Darius Darius O welcome sound And is my darling safe Blessed blessed for ever be thy God whose power has kept the cruelest of Beasts from bathing thâ—ir stern Jaws in Blood of innocence With speed with speed draw draw him thence draw out the man my Soul so much delights in O let me embrace my Daniel
leave me my honour Is not this to speak like an Angel and to have the sentiments of those spirits who live in flames without being consumed and amidst Lightnings without being dazled But now such was the Devil of this Epyptian Woman who so eagerly persued Ioseph he was an insolent importunate furious companion His rage notwithstanding had by fits some relaxation he knew the art of dissembling and to be silent for a time his Element was solitude and the night his refuge he sighed alwayes after Ioseph and nothing pleased him when he was absent In fine he seems to have the power to possess this Soul if she be alone and if all witnesses be drawn aside Beware then Ioseph what you doe you are alone you are young you are beautifull and Esteemed Remember that the eyes of Women dart as many lightnings as glances call to mind that their mouths shed honey and poison and that their tongues cast more dangerous darts than Adders Contemn then what ever this impudent Creature can say unto you She will peradventure say she is your Mistriss and that you ought to obey her And that if she affect you you cannot hate her and if she seek you you have no reason to flye from her she will conjure you to tell her what in her displeaseth you Since she omits nothing that may content you and without injustice you cannot refuse her one single favour she expects from you especially she being ready on her part to grant all that you can ask of her There is no colour she will not employ to represent unto you her passion and her Eyes though silent will swear to you that they have often enough spoken to you when her mouth durst not utter a word that if it were possible she would believe that she hath by her words manifested to you all the thoughts of her Soul when they might have been kept secret Besides she will flatter you saying you have refused her that out of prudence which now you ought to grant her through love and goodness Moreover if you fear any thing she will assure you that she hath foreseen all that may expose you unto danger In fine she will intreat that if she hath no fortunes in the World which are not at your disposure you would yet receive her respect and affections to render you morâ— absolute and independent concluding by all these reasons that you must at last satisfie her either by violence or sweetnesse and that she will have either honour or life death or consent Mean while let us see I beseech you what strong endeavours are used to stay him They flatter him they praise him they love him they honour him they conjure him they threaten him they make him promises What will you have and what more can be done to gain him and poâ—â—ess his affections Entreaties have hitherto received but refusalls Alurements disdains and threats constancy and neglect In fine this furious Woman being no longer able to restrain her passion an attempt must be made oâ— the life of him whose honour she could not wound she leaps on his neck as it were to strangle him but presently Ioseph flies away and leaving his garment in her hands she had but the Feathers of this Bird which she thought to detain in her nests Behold then all her designs defeated Ioseph iâ— escaped he is in safety and out of the reach of this ravenous She-wolf which pursued him This inraged Woman seeing then that Ioseph waâ— fled and that he had only left her his Cloak resolved at the instant to revenge this affront and accuse him whom she knew to be too pure to excuse himself This Dame cryed out first and the fear she hath to be accused is the occasion she takes those for Witnesses of her innocency who could have prevented her After all seeing her Husband at her Door help saith she to what am I reduced Aâ— who hath given me for a Servant an importunate Devil who persecutes me beyond measure Ah my Husband my Friend what have you done And what a perfidious man have you given me Is it peradventure to try my Loyalty and Vertue tell me I pray what is your intention and whether you keep him in the quality of a Servant or Companion For my part I esteem it as a great honour to be your Hand-maid and yet I conceive not my self obliged to obey your meanest Servant He hath been nevertheless so presumptuous in your absence to sport with me and take the place you hold in my heart No I swear by the respect I owe you that I would have strangled him if my strength had been answerable to my will but he is escaped and seeing I called for help he left his garment in my hands Immediatly this man giving too much credit to the discourse of his Wife without inquiry whether what she said was true or false caused Ioseph 〈…〉 stayed and commanded him to be put in 〈…〉 Whâ—◠〈…〉 Aegyptian Lady did invite Well favour'd Joseph to unchast delight How well the motion and the place agreed A beastly place and 't was a beastly Deed A place well season'd for so foul a sin Too sweet to serve so foul a Master in Ioseph's Speech to his Brethren Go fetch your Brother saith th' Aegyptian Lord If you intend our Garners shall afford Your craving wants their so desir'd supplies If He come not by Pharaoh's life y' are Spies Ev'n as your suits expect to find our Grace Bring Him or dare not to behold my face Some little food to serve you on the way We here allow but not to feed delay When you present your Brother to our hand Yâ— shall have plenty and possess the Land Away and let your quick obedience give The earnest of your Faiths do this and live If not your willfull wants must want supply For ye are Spies and ye shall surely die Great God the Aegyptian Lord resembles Thee The Brother 's Jesus and the Suiters Wee CHAP. XXVII Giveing an Account of the wonderfull manner of Pharaoh's being swallowed up in the Red-Sea AND now methinks I see Pharaoh with all his Egyptian forces ready to be swallowed up in the Billows of an unexorable Element which will open its waves to make a dreadfull Sepulcher 〈◊〉 â—his cruel and disastrous Tyrant about whom 〈◊〉 most holy sweetness and the most amiable patience â—f Heaven is wearied Having then received news that the Israelâ—â—â—â— â—ere incamped upon the side of a little Hill situated â—etween the Fort of Magdalin and the Red-Sea and â—ery near Mount Beelsophon He believed this waâ—â—â—e best way to surround them and that in 〈◊〉 â—â—ese Rocks Dungeons and Seas serve but for 〈◊〉 â—rge Grave to bury them and to extinguish 〈…〉 the name and memory of this People which 〈◊〉 occasion'd to him so many misfortunes He saâ—â—â—em at least in a condition to dye of Hunger and â—hirst after he had ingaged them all in ' these bad â—â—ssages
to thy Royal Person so muâ—h Veneâ—â—tion anâ— respect to all thy Laws 〈◊〉 he is th◠〈…〉 Ungâ—â—tâ—ful man thâ—t he is whom 〈…〉 of 〈◊〉 thou hast 〈…〉 whose very weight 〈…〉 in hiâ— Loyâ—lty 〈…〉 thâ—â—â—he suâ—limity 〈…〉 into foâ—ly too he 〈…〉 other Goâ— as if â—â—ou O King weâ—t not 〈◊〉 enough for him who hast been so kind and Royal to him Never has the largeâ—se of Princely Bounty 〈◊〉 unluckily miâ—carried by ingâ—atitude and Treachery which dares be so insolent to give so pernicious an Exâ—mple of first Violating that Law which he should have valued infinitâ—ly dearer than his Life and rather than have prostituted it to 〈◊〉 Coâ—â—empt should have 〈◊〉 the warmâ—st Blood of hiâ— Hâ—art to itâ— Glory We pray therefore that he may Suffer the Pains and Penalties of the Irrevocaâ—â—â— Decree he has so Prophanâ—ly despisâ—d may râ—ceive the just Râ—compâ—â—se of his hâ—ughty Râ—bellion and Pride Be thrown to the Lyons Now is the King almost dead with sorrow the fatal News mâ—re wounds his Royal Heart than the Pâ—iâ—oners The King himself suffers in this Plot and is persecuted in the Captive and now is basely betrayed to sign the Decree which Seals his own vexation and trouble For 't is they and not Daniel were guilty of the Treason agâ—inst his Royal tranquility and peace Unhappy Daniâ—l to bâ— so lov'd and so hated so pa sionately lov'd by Darius so universally 〈◊〉 by his Nobles Hereâ—â— nâ—t one of all the Peers hâ—s a pitty for thee they joyâ—â—ly address for thy 〈◊〉 Executiâ—n Nâ—minâ— Coâ—tradicentâ— The King singly demures and while he does so they impâ—tientlâ— adâ—râ—ss a second time and had not so â—â—â—â—â—erously 〈◊〉 hitheâ—to now to 〈◊〉 theiâ— Plot to perish in â—mâ—rio 〈◊〉 makes them foâ—â—â—et good mannâ—rs they 〈…〉 and uncourly 〈◊〉 O Kiâ—â— that the Lâ—wâ— the 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 it that no Decrâ—e nor 〈◊〉 which the King 〈…〉 v. 15. q. 〈◊〉 We have 〈…〉 a Bâ—y 〈◊〉 Reâ—el may noâ— be pardoned tâ—e Laws of tâ—y Kingdom will not bear it tho thou wouldst therefore in vain dost thou labour to â—eliver him for dye he must and shall But now metâ—â—nks how do I see the great Darius hugging him in his Aâ—ms whilst he beholding him as he fears with his last Eyes breaths out his very Heart to him in such dear Expressions as these Daniel my dearest Daniâ—l the brightest Star that ever illustrated a Princes Court the faithfullest Servant that ever bless'd a Master the very Glory and Flowâ—r of my Kingdom and Palace who art passing up into those more glorious Mansions where only dwell suâ—h Spirits as thine Thou wiâ—t no more envy the toys of Regality nor need the aiery Honours of an Earthly Palace I am distreâ—sed foâ— thee my dearest Daniel how willingly could I uncloath my self from these vain Badges of Majesty to pass into Spirit with thee But â—tay may not thy God meet thee in the Den as I have heard Shaâ—rach's did him in the Furnace and methinks I have Faith to believe he will and least thine Enemies should think so too and send in Russians more cruel than the Beasts to destroy thee my care shall obviate that danger while I Seal thee up under the Protection of Heaven and thy God How stately passes the Captive 〈◊〉 the Den richlâ— laden with the Trophâ—â—â— of his Princes affections and the graces of his God! He leaves nothing behind him thâ—â— he should take to Heaven with him but the thought â—f Revenge A Dialogical Discourse between Adonibezeck and one of the 60 Kings he tormented and kept under his Table The Discourse supposed to be in the other World The Argument The mighty King the Tyrant whose delight In tortures was who sixty Kings in spite Of Regal Pow'r that did their Brows adorn Maim'd and beneath his Table kept in scorn Is in like manner serv'd so fares it still With those that seek their fellow Creatures ill 〈◊〉 HOw now great Monarch by what fatal chance 〈◊〉 you from lights of splendid pomp advance 〈◊〉 these dull Regions how cut off by death 〈◊〉 you the sternest Tyrant of the Earth 〈◊〉 midst of all your Glories lose your breath â—don Torment me not in asking how I fell â—ow the Fates durst my Ambition Quell â—ing Know you not who I am know you not me â—don I know too well the dreadful shape I see â—â—ke it from mine Eyes I wou'd not know â—wou'd be known in these sad times of woe â—ing Yet pittyless you durst our patience prove 〈◊〉 cou'd our Tears nor Groans your Mercy move â—don 'T is true they cou'd not but I thought me then 〈◊〉 the blasting Fate of Vulgar men 〈◊〉 made me seem in heights to fly 〈◊〉 the reach of frail Mortality â—â—ng So we once thought yet all we urg'd was vain â—ou'd our Sighs when fallen ease our pain Adon. You were my Captives by fierce war so made Your Countrey 's mine by me in Ashes laid King 'T is true yet pitty in a Monarch's Breast Renowns him more pity to those opprest A God-like nature in Man-kind creates And Envy's Keen-soul piercing Shaft Rebates Adon. But then Compassion knew not my Abode Revenge and Fury waited on my Nodd My will was then my law Death mark'd my Frowns On whâ—m they bent there he bestow'd his wounds King Yet now too plain you see the God whose Eyes Into the darkest of Man's Secrets pryes Has found you out and by his chosen Seed Now made the Proud Adonibezeck bleed Adon. 'T is to my Shame and sad Confusion knowâ— As I have done to me so be it done In a base servitude a Mâ—narch dy'd Maim'd as he maim'd Crush't as he crush't the pride Of daring Mortals whom he made to stoop E're they his Towring Cedar cou'd o're-top King Just is thy plague thy punishment is comâ— And we with joy behold thy juster doom So fares it with all those that pityless Afflict their Brethr'n when in most distress Who proudly triumph over those they may And make a sport of them they make their Prey So may it fare with Tyrants so with those Whose Breast no mercy but fell rage Inclose Adon. My guilty Conscience wounds me Let that Revenge enough no more then torture me King Still still I 'le haunt you since the 〈◊〉 decree Your Fortune equal in our Misery Adon. I 'll shun you then my Soul no more can 〈◊〉 King Yet you unmov'd our sad laments cou'd 〈◊〉 Adon. 'T is true I did and scoff'd at all your 〈◊〉 â—lutting with your hard Fates my well pleas'd eyes King Then what can you expect but to indure Our hate and scorn who cou'd your self enure â—n prâ—sperous dayes to nought but cruelty Adon. That I 'll prevent for with swift wings I 'll fly To dismal shades of Night beyond your reach King In vain 's such flight your Walls can't now Impeach Our following fury now your Guards are gone No power to torture 's left Death has undone The knot of power and now like
Agag How doom'd me dead O name not such another fatal Word Spare spare my Life and all the Treasures I have hid when first the Rumour of the dreadful War alarm'd my affrighted coast are â—t your service Samuel Your Treasure perish with you not all the 〈◊〉 of the Vniverse shall rescue you from Death Agag O draw not draw not in this rage your 〈…〉 Sword Consider I am a Man a Father 〈◊〉 â—onarch Seest thou not what Robes of 〈◊〉 adorn me seest thou not this awful Circle 〈◊〉 o're with Gems This Scepter at whose wave the Princes cring'd and kiss'd the dust seest not him to whome a thousand knees were wont to â—end him on whose Breath dependeth Life and Death now prostrate on the ground imploring 〈◊〉 for himself Samuel All this I see and as far as humane fr ailâ—â— can bear sway am moved yet must not dare not 〈◊〉 not disobey my God Agag O! consider once again that my Mother 〈◊〉 a Queen in distant Lands O think what grief will be to her to hear her only Son is slain Samuel In vain is all you urge and this last â—aying whets my Anger more when I consider how your blood-bedaubed Hands have made the Nations mourn how your destroying Sword has raised the Widdows cries and tender Infants sighs lo the many slaughters you have made in Jacob's borders rendred thousands câ—ildless wherefore the self same Fate be on the Womb that bare you whilst thus thus I execute Gods wrath on thy pernicious Head Agag Oh Oh I 'm slain I 'm slain I that have scaped a thousand deaths in battel tamely fall a Victim to the Zealous Fury of an inraged Prophet Samuel Thus what Saul left undone my aged hand finished and atton'd for Jacobs Land A Dialogue between David Saul and Goliah upon their Incounter The Argument David Anointed King of Jacobs Seed Hastes to the Camp of Saul with swiftest speed And undertakes to fight the mighty Foe Who with proud boasting forty days durst show His monstrous Bulk defying Israels Host But David with a sling soon quells his Boast Saul SPeak speak young Stripling is it as my Captain has related darest thou that art but a Youth Expose thy self against this Monster that defies my Host. David My Lord I dare though not presuming on the Arm of flesh but totally relying on the Living God who has delivered me from the devouring Rage of 〈◊〉 and of Bears nor dare I now doubt the assistance of his power to bâ—ing low the haughty Pride of this bold Philistine that has defied tbe Armies of the living God Saul Bold is your Spirit and your courage brave the two first steps to Glorious Actions shine in you but yet consider he 's a man of War mighty in strength and dreaded by the most â—edoubted Captain of the Israelites David Great King did I rely on my own strength I must confess his monstrous shape might dash my resolution but his strength on whom the high success depends is capable by meanest things to quell the mighty and bring low all strength and power with him there 's nought impossible Saul Spoke like a Champion worthy to subdue the world A Champion on whose Head your King will stake the Diâ—dem of Israel my Armour there so put it on and gird your self in Walls of shining Steel to fit you for the danger David Alas my Lord it needs not for with these few stones I 'le quell your Foe and make him kiss the the humble Plain Saul Braver in bold resolutions still Well go thou worthy and be prosperous may the bright Minister of Heaven protect you from his rage and make him fall before you David All thanks great King and may the God Iacob prosper you while thus your Servant posteth to assured Victory David and Goliah come near each other Ha ha ha how am I moved to laughter when I think the King of Israel in forty days could find no fitter man than this to fight me sure this unarmed Stripling is but sent to mock me as imagining when he has teized me with some Railery to run away and escape my following fury by reason of my heavy Armour David Why laughs the Monstrous Philistine why with wide Iaws dare he disdain my youth knew I no other God than Moloch and accursed Dagon I should not come resolved to the Combat Gol. How to the Combate Knowest thou with whom poor youth thou art to fight Hast thou not heard of the sad Slaughters I have made how this powerfull hand has broke through the affrighted Squadrons of the Foe and mowed with Whirlwinds Fury on each side cutting through Groves of Spears a bloody way to Victory till hâ—â—ps of slain have â—ali'd me in and thinkest thou with a Staff to drive me hence May Moloch and great Dagâ—â— blast thy foolish thoughts Dav. Not all the bloody deeds thou hast done can fright the Son of Jesse nâ—r once dismay the Man that hâ—t avow'd to viâ— oppressed Israel of so great a curb that henceforth haughty man may not so boldly trust in Arms of Flesh. Gol. Why hoverest thou then round me at this rate and shunnest my fury art afraid to come within my reach Come to me and I will give thy Flesh to the Fowls of the Air and to the Beasts of the Field Tear thee in ten thousand pieces and thy scattered Limbs set up as Trophies of my Victory in all the Coasts of Israel when this fatal Sword has made its Monarch stoop to the Philiâ—â—â—nes yoke Dav. In vain are all thy unregarded Threats Aâ—though thou comest to me with a Sword â— Spear and Shield and I to thee in the name of the Lord of Hosts the God of the Armies of Israel whom thou hast defied Gol. O how hot is my revenge To what a height boils up my ragiâ—g Fury O that thou wert this moment in my reach how would I toss thee in the Air and pash thy falling Body on the Rocks Dav. I 'll not be long e're I advance to tâ—y destruction for this day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hands and I will smite thee and take thine head from thee and I will give the Carkasses of the Philistines this day unto the Fowls of the Air and to the wild Beasts of the Earth that all the Earth may know there is a God in Israel and all this Assembly shall know that the Lord saveth not with Sword and Spear and he will give it into our hands Gol. I 'll not endure this longer but chastize thy Insolence with flaming Steel whose very touch shall make thee fly in sunder Dav. Nor will I fail to meet your utmost fury and thus I 'll thunder on â—our lofty Front and bring you to the ground Gol. O horrour Death and Ruine what dark Mist is this benights my Eyes what dreadful bolt on flaming Wings thrown by some envious power â—as thus o'rethrown the great Goliah and laid all his Trophies level with the dust Dav.
at your pleasure Ahab Then I have sued in vain and you but triâ—le with your Prince consider who demanded it and mourn for your rash refusal Na. Ha 1the King has left me and in such a rage as does presage no less than ruine to poor Naboth yet let the angry Monarch use me as he please I 'll never yield to part with my Inheritance Conclusion In an ill time Naboth denys the King Who grieves till Jezabel does comfort bring And plots the ruine of the Israelite Whâ—'s ston'd to death but what got Ahab by 't 'T is true he has the Vineyard but 's soon slain As is his Son his Wife and all his Train A Dialogue between Jehu and Jezabel The Argument King Joram and King Ahazia slain To Jezreel goes Jehu with his Train Where Jezabel rebukes him but cast down Is slain and by the Horses trampled on Iez Stay haughty Rebel stay thy rapid wheels pollute not Jezreel with thy Bazlick breath A Queen commandeth thee to retire J. O! art thou found in all thy dazling Pomp and Gallantry thou baneful mischief of the world worst of things whose Whoredoms and prodigious Witchcraftâ— have caused Jacobs Seed so long to mourn under the Scourge of Heaven and polluted all the Land with blood of Innocents Iez Ha Inglorious Traytor darest thou this to me am not I still a Queen A Queen whose nodd Whilst Ahabs power remain'd made Princes startle and whose Frowns and Smiles were sure presages of Life or of Death then know your distance and be dumb J. Yes witness the consecrated Priests that fell â— Sacrifice to your revenge Witness the blood of Naboth â—nd the many mischiefs more the wicked Iezabel haâ— done causing not only Ahabs fall but Jorams and unthinking Ahazia's Fates Iez How Is Ioram slain as it was reported by your cruel hand consider well Had Zimri peace who slew his Master no fierce vengeance followeâ—â—lose nor shall the bold aspiring Iehu escape liâ—â— mischief but o're taken by the stratagems of an inraged Queen new Tortures and unheard of Torments shall overthrow his pride and then too late you 'll know the keenest vengeance of a Queen provoked like Ahabs wife Jeh In vain are all your threats your power 's too short to execute your will this moment ends your malice with your life that so the Prophets words may be fullfill'd Slaves who waits there Ha A Troop of Eunuchs Yes yes fit panders for a lustful Queen Come throw your gawdy Mistriss down that so much pride in falling may be made the fluttering sport of Winds Iez Ha ha ha can you imagine Tyrant that those who live but by my Smiles dare use their Queen at such a rate Their Queen on whom their Lives and Fortunes Centre Jeh Dare yes He dies that dare gainsay or once delay what I command Slaves obey or Tortures shall force out your wretched lives He that a moment longer trifles with my pleasure shall not live to see the falling Sun Iez How Slaves stand off unhand me Villains Dare you thus approach your Queen Vile wretches Monsters damn'd ingrateful Monsters Are you turn'd Traytors too Ah Ah I fall whilst all my Pride and Glory is dasht in death O World instable world for ever now adieu Jeh So 't is as I wish'd I knew the fawning slaves durst not refuse compliance There let the Pride and Bane of Israel lie trampled till I take possession of the Kingdom and extinguish Ahabs house Conclusion The wicked Queen with lofty falling's slain Nor weltring in her blood does long remain E're Dogs devour her next her house does feel The dreadful fury of revenging Steel And Baals accursed Priest the Swords devour Whilst Jehu as God bid does use his pow'r A Dialogical Discourse between Isaiah and Hezekiah relating to the fifteen Additional Years The Argument The Syrians by the wastful Angel slain Jerusalem is freed but then again Good Hezekiah sickens and is bid To order all things as a man but dead Yet prayers and tears prevail for whilst he prays God fifteen years does add unto his days Hez HOw set my House in order why must death with his cold hand make Iudah Kingless whilâ—t in Tears the Widdow Nation drowns and the calm Air is tormented with her sighs Isa. 'T is the Decree of him that gave you life and has preserved you to this day by him I am commissioned to relate the doleful message and command you to prepare for immortality Hez Dye O terrible the very thoughts of Death affright me more than the Convulsions of expiring life can pain O! Can it be that he who ruled the chosen Seed whose hand so long has held a golden Scepter and every where received the loud applauses of the glad Plebeans must in the prime of strength and glory have his luster shroâ—ded in a Grave and there be made the sport and food of crawling Worms Isa. Consider Sir that you was born to dye and that stern death claims as his due the lives of Adams Sons as forfeited by our great Parent and subjected to his power nor can the glittering vanities in whom frail men too often put their confidence keep back his shaft a moment when his Commission is to seize their breath therefore let not the King delay to set his house in order Hez O fatal sound but stay good Prophet stay is there no mercy for your King must must his rising Sun so soon endure a black Eclipse his life so soon set in the gloomy Grave O for a longer course of days that I might live if but to tell of all the wonders God has done for wretched me O with what adoration wou'd I bend before the footstool of his mercy-seat would he be but intreated for my life Isa. Vrge it nâ— more Deaths Harbinger I am nor will the ghastly Terror long delay the execution therefore be wise O King and do as I have bid before it be too late before the King of Judah be no more Hez Alas Alas The strong Disease by preying on the vital powers has weakned me to that degree that now I am unfit to take recognisance of worldly things I know not what my Treasures are nor how to call my Fields and Vineyards by their proper names nor can I tell the number of my Servants nor whom I design the Scepter of Ierusalem I have put off too long these matters and now through fear and sickness am quite uncapable of stating 'em but could I live I 'de be no more so negligent Isa. Your hopes of life I fear are vain therefore consider well what I have said and think them not my words but his on whom the breath of life depends and so great King in Tears I take my leave Hez O stay thou sacred Prophet stay if but to close the wretched eyes of an expiring Monarch Hah will not the man of God vouchsafe to see his King put off his Scepter Crown and Robes of Majesty to be
death to one who labours under such an Agony Then turn your praises into curses that his wrath may vex yet hotter and by putting a full period to your days take you from this sad world of wo. Job Base wicked woman vile and foolish darest thou let a thought so monstrous harbour in thy breast much more how darest thou urge me to such damn'd Impiety Shall Job on whom he showred his favours once move his lips though in the softest murmur when he is pleased to stay his giving hand or call back what he gave no nothing ever shall prompt me to a guilt so horrible Wife Then you it seems will suffer patiently and stand the mark of fierce indignation tamely Job Whatever he inflicts it is for our good his chastening is to try if we are worthy of his favours nor will he wound beyond what he designs to heal His mercies are past numbring which in the midst of Iudgment he oft calls to mind and makes a full recompence for what he takes away therefore ever will I praise and with just adoration bless his holy name nay though he kill me yet will I trust in him and with dying Arms embrace the wounding Shaft sent by his hand to let out life Wife Well well I see then all I urge will work no effect on your meek mind inured to slavery serve him still and be the subject of his Tyranny bear all the Stripes he can bestow and fawning kiss the hand that strikes you do this and more whilst loud I laugh at the dull man that hugs his misery and will not daigne to pity him Job All you have said is my resolve no pain nor loss nor scorn shall shake my dear integrity all torments witty horror can invent were they comprised in one shall never break my constancy or make me prove a Rebel to the King of Heaven but with Faith unmoved I will trust in him till lifes last Sand is run expecting then to see him as he is and Hymn his Throne with Songs of praise Wife If that be your resolve I will fly the Mansion of such sorrow and seek shelter elsewhere whilst his Arrows beat on you Job Yet shall I not be comfortless his hand shall still sustain me and my Eyes shall yet see happy days The Conclusion Thus Job bears through afflictions stream which past He is restored to health and Riches vast And once more is the Glory of the East Nor dare the fiend his quiet than molest So those that trust in God are ever blest A Dialogue between Saul and his Armour-Bearer on Gilboa The Argument Saul routed flies but finding flight was vain He and his Armour-Bearer both are slain S. NOw now 't is almost come to pass as the grim Ghost related Israel is ovâ—â—thrown My Sons are slain in Battel and the bloody Foe makes havock of the flying people A. B. Great King 't is true the smiling Plains that looked so gay when first saluted by the Morning Sun put on a crimson Robe and wear instead of Flora's many coloured mantle the sad Livery of Death S. Yet Saul still lives he lives to see the mighty ruine to see his Children slain and all his mighty men of War fall by the Sword A. B. And still may live to be revenged of his now Tyrannizing Foes live to return as many deaths as now his Eyes behold the Philistins to triumph in S. O! Name not Life for that is the only thing that now is grievous to me Wretch that I am why did I fly why fell I not amid'st the fileâ— of War Why why did not I break through the pointed Squadrons and there bravely fighting rushed upon a thousand Swords and from a thousand enraged hands received a Death that well beseemed â— Monarch A. B. O! Let not Israels King dispair although the Fortune of the War now turns against him â—et fresh Armies may be raised and the Foe repelled live live If but to be revenged S. No Heaven decrees my fall and cutting short my Glories dates them with this day draw then your Sword and e're the Philistins overtake us sheath it in my Breast fâ—r now my Life is grown burthensome A. B. What means the King by this câ—mmand can be imagine that his Servant dares stretâ—◠〈◊〉 his â—and against the Lords anointed S. O let me beg you would not dispuâ—e what I request Renown and Glory will attend you for so brave a Deed nor can you do me better service than to let out my afflicted Soul A. B. Command me to kill my self and I will obey 〈◊〉 bid me meet the following Foe and charge A Squadâ—on with my single Arm I 'le gladly do it but dare not â—tretch my hand against my Sovereign S. The Enemy is now at our heels and time â—dmits no longer argument see see without your â—elp your King can find a way to the dread Pallace 〈◊〉 magnificent Death Whilst falling thus upon â—is Sword his loathed Life takes flight A. B. Hold hold my Lord for Heavens â—is past recall the desperate Deed is done the cruâ—â— word has pierced his Heart and I 'le not long survive 〈◊〉 imitating his Example fall thus by his side 't is 〈◊〉 't is done my blood flows fast now now I swim 〈◊〉 dazy mists and now a gloomy darkness seales my 〈◊〉 dies· Conclusion Saul slain with his three Sons the haughty Foâ— Cuts off his Head and his guilt Armour show In all their Coasts possessing Iacobs Towns And much inlarging their own scanty bounds Nor so contented but the Corps of Saul They fasten to subdued Bethshan's wall But thence the Iabish Gileadites it rest And for the burying of their Lord are blest David saluted King DAvid who after Gods own Heart was chose Having escap'd the danger of his Foes Run through the hazzards numerous to tell Saul slain he 's crown'd great King of Israel Him the Glad People from all Cities meet And loudly sing his praises in each Street Though Saul's rejected House does strive with him For Iacobs Scepter and bright Diadem Yet 't is in vain Heaven soon does end the strife Whilst mighty Abner is bereft of Life When as the Darling from whose Loyns must spring The great Messia Heavens all Glorious King In Triumph rides all fearless and does see How much he owes for his felicity To his Creator by whom Kings command On whom their regal Glories all depend Who sets them bounds and limits Kingly sway Chastizing those that dare but disobey His strict resolves whose will alone is Fate And whose bare word can all annihilate Davids kindness to Mephibosheth KIng David high establish'd in his Throne On former dangers safely now looks down Remembring how Saul sought his Life and hoâ— Between him and kind Ionathan a vow Pass'd in the great Iehova's sacred Name Then calls to mind Mephibosheth who lame And in distress was Son to him who still Had held him dear preventing the dire will Of Death conspiring Saul and
their malicioâ— Rulers knew not against whom they cry'd nor whâ— it was they did P. I dare beleive as much but the sad deed is pâ—â—ecal and all you argue now is vain W. As to retrieve the fact it is but yet the glorious Prophet whom the foolish People think now dead if my Dreams inform me right lives lives Immortal never more to dye P. How lives Then fear strikes me horror chills me and I tremble at what you relate W. It was no common man that in that barbarous manner they have used but one who in his Hands has power of Life and Death A Power invincible not to be subdued by Armies had he not consented to lay down his Life P. Indeed his meekness melted me into Compassion and made me labour to deliver him W. This this was he of whom the Cibils sung in mistick numbers this this was that dear Prince of â—eace that should give Peace to the long warring World P. Then I am guilty of a horrid Crime but now it is â—ast in vain it is to argue it what I have done I in a â—anner was compelled to do therefore the Blood sâ—â—â—ed be on the guilty Nation as the clamorous Rout â—equired â—hilst I go mourn to wash away the Guilt â—f Blood so precious yet so vilely spilt W. And I likewise retire with fear and dread â—o worship him the foolish Iews think dead Zacheus in the Sycamore Tree A Prophet Risen yes a Prophet great Good just and wise if Fame the truth relâ—te â—s is wonder-working power has rais'd in me wondâ—rous longing his loved Face to see â—t still he is incompass'd with such croudâ— â—â—at each huge bulk the happy Object shrouds â—om my low stature yet I heard men say 〈◊〉 was to travel through a narrow way â—ading directly to my house if so 〈◊〉 add a height to what appears so low Upon the Branches of this shading Tree Little Zacheus shâ—ll advanced be So now I`m up and hither flows the croud With shouts with Praises and Hosannahs loud 'T is 't is the Lord now I shall see his Face O that I in his eyes may find some grace How lovâ—ly looks he O! â—ow innocent And now on me his radient eyes are bent Ha see he beckons Iâ—le with speed descend And on the wonder-working Lord attend Conclusion Thus goes the faiâ—hful Man and by command Does entertain the Lord of Sea and Land The King of all the Glâ—â—ious Heavenly Band. Nicodemus his Considerations form'd intâ— a Dialogue between him and the World The Argument By night the Ruler comes resolv'd to hear The sacred Doctrine ' câ—use the Paniâ—k fear He had of misbeleiâ—ing Juda â—w'd Morâ— than the wrath of an incâ—nsed God W. STrange it is you should neglect my motiâ—â— at this rate and pinâ— away with Imaginâ—â—tions of you know not what N. Be sâ—ill lâ—ud 〈◊〉 Fâ—lly sâ—mething witâ— commandâ— me to obey iâ—s diâ—tates and fly witâ— speed the Physitian W. To the phyâ—itian why are you disâ—ase then if so it is suâ—e I have a thousand Cordials give you ease made up of rich ingredientâ— such seldom fail man-kind N. Alâ—ss tâ—â— oft they do and aâ—e at bâ—st but luscious Pâ—isâ—n wâ—ich maâ— be antidoted fâ—r a time but in the eâ—d deâ—trâ—â—s the Patient W. How why sure the Man on whom I have â—â—stowed so many Favours câ—nnot be so much inâ—râ—â—â—ful to reject my kind advice N. Forbeaâ— tâ— trouble mâ— sâ—â—â—e it is noâ— in your â—owâ—r tâ—â—ive me ease a wounded Soâ—l you cannot câ—re but 〈◊〉 make it wâ—rse ◠〈◊〉 â—hat the thing that thuâ— disturâ—s my darling 〈◊〉 iâ— that be alâ— it is 〈◊〉 â—â—ing â—oâ—al fâ—r a day â—r â—â—o but fâ—asting â—our dull Senâ—â—s wiâ—h dâ—light and all your cares â—ill vanish N. In vâ—in you â—rge iâ— therefore uâ—ge no mâ—re frâ—m â—his daâ— I renâ—unce you and yoâ—â— guilâ—â—d vâ—nitiâ—s my 〈◊〉 Treâ—sures or whâ—teâ—â—â— you 〈◊〉 a soli◠〈…〉 hencefoâ—th be no 〈◊〉 tâ—e sâ—llâ—ce of mâ— mind bâ—t Viâ—tue that essential haâ—â—â—nâ—ss shall bâ— my deâ—r comâ—aniâ—n W. And will you then cast off â—our Grandure Gaiâ—y lay by your awful Robes anâ— leave your sumpâ—uous Fare to pine and languish to be fed with â—ears and sighs as those that do forsake me are will you I say fall under sad reproach contempt â—nd scorn N. This and much more I`le do for everlasting Life â—â—r will I argue longer least the happy motion thaâ— disâ—â—ses me to happiness should fail but with sâ—ift feet â—hilst â—arkâ—ess â—antles in the World fly â—o the Foâ—ntain â—f all â—oâ—s W. But thither I will â—ollw thâ—e and pull thâ—e â—ick if possiâ—le 〈…〉 â—our beleiâ— and stâ—ive to blind your Sence That you shall dimly see true Excellence A Memento to Hypocrites or an Imagined Dialogue bâ—tween Ananias and Saphira The Argument The Plot 's contriv'd they would have Heaven and yet Too great a price they would not give for it But purchase at a rate themselves think fit SEe how the crowding Pe ople flow to hear the new sprung Doctrine and bring dayly Gifts to those that teach it A. It is true nor must we be behind hand since we have embracâ—t it S. It is true but if we sell our poor inheritance and part with all the price how shall we afterwards subsist Indeed I 'de willingly partake of the joys the Teachers promise yet methinks I would not be poor for that will râ—nder us contemptible A. Take no care for that we`ll give and yet we will save enough to keep us from contempt S. But how if the fraud should be discovered A. O fear it not what Mâ—rtal can discover it he that bought it knows not ouâ— intention or if he does will never inquire how we bestow the coin S. I dare beleive as much therefore go you and lay a part of it at the great Teachers Feet whilst â— secure the rest and then I will follow for my Benediction A. I 'le do as you advise and hope to be as well accepted as those who part with all they have S. But if you should be asked if what you bring is the total Summ where are you then A. Why thinkest thou he that has devised cannoâ— without a blush affirm it is the whole nor let youâ— assuration be less least we should differ and by thaâ— means be detected S. I 'le warrant you I 'le have my lesson therefore be concerned no further but about it Conclusion Thus is the project laid though all in vain Yet such an one as might deceive meer man But good St. Peter fill'd with holy fire Sees through the thin device and as their hire Gives them to death by whose hard hand they dy That to the holy Ghost durst boldly lâ— A Dialogue between Satan and Simon Magus The Argument The Prince of darkness angry that his power Is baffled by Gods sacred Word a shower Of wrath designs to rain but can't devour S. HOw now my Vice-roy wherefore is it you give ground have not I