animate and encourage these his friends to fight for the glory of God and to give sufficient testification of his zeale towards God he was himselfe present in Person in two severall Battels fought betwixt them neaâ—e unto Capella a Monastery situate in the fields of Tigurum unto the first he came freely of his owne accord that he might be present at their Consultations and to see that there were no declining from truth and equity This Battell was finished without the shedding of blood concerning which he was often heard to say that he had seene more malice and more wicked Counsell in it then he knew all his life time either by experience or from reading Unto the second he waâ— elected and chosen us chiefe Commander and being unwilling at the first to undertake such a burden the ground of that quarrell being something displeasing unto him it being onely Grameatus denegatio yet at the last he resolved to goe presaging as it were his owne death by the uâ—tring of these words Seio scio quid rei sit ut ego â—ollar fiunt omnia I know I know how the case stands now all these preparations are for my ruine and destruction Wherefore being well horsed and compleatly Armed he followed the Tigurunes in the reare being ready to joyne battell he went not forth as a Captaine or Commander of the Army but as a good Citizen and faithfull Pastor who would not forsake his friends in their greatest perill In this Battell Zuinglius was slaine together with three hundred eighty and three of his confaederates it happening on the eleventh day of Octobrr in the yeer of our Lord 1531. after that he had Preached the Gospel of Christ at Tigurum the space of 12. yeeres and at Glarona and Eremus the space of a 11. yeeres himselfe being 44. yeeres of age They which were neere unto him when he fell wounded even unto death heard him utter these words What misfortune is this Well they can indeed kill the body but they cannot kill the soule being in this misery he was demanded by his enimies whether he would yeeld unto Papisticall invocation of the Saints being not able to speake he refused it apparantly by the motion of his head and by the lifting up of his eyes to heaven he gave thâ—m to understand that he would invoke and call on none but on the Lord above wherefore in a raging and cruell manner tooke his life away from him condemned his body to be cut in foure quarters and to be burnt unto ashes in the fire Some of his faithfull friends greatly lamenting his death came full of sorrow unto the place where his body was burnt and lightly moving the ashes found his heart sound and untouched with the flames some ascribing it unto the power of God who by this miracle would declare unto the world both his innocency and also his zeale others spending their judgements accordingly as they were affected toward the Person And this was the end of the godly Minister of Christ whose great desire for the advancement of the truth of Christ will clearly shew it selfe by those painfull and learned labours of his which are extant in the Church being comprehended and contained in foure Tomes Tome 1. 1. A worke of Articles 2. An exhortation to the whol State of Switzerland 3. A Supplication to the Bishop of Constance 4. Of the certainty and purity of Gods Word 5. An answer unto Valentine of the authority of the Fathers 6. Institutions for Youth 7. A good Shepheard 8. Of Iustice Divine and Humaine 9. Of Providence Tome 2. 1. Of Baptisme 2. Of Originall Sinne. 3. Of true and false Religion 4. An Epistle to the Princes of Germany 5. Of the Lords Supper 6. Of Christian Faith written unto the French King Tome 3. Commentaries on Genesis 2. Exodus 3. Isaiah 4. Jeremiah Psalter out of Hebrew into Latin Tome 4. 1. Annotations on the foure Evangelists 2. History of our Saviours Passion Annotations on 3. The Romans 4. Corinthians 5. Philippians 6. Collossians 7. Thessalonians 8. Hebrewes 9. James 10. John Epist. 1. They that are willing to engage and prove Themselves true Souldiers in the field of Love Must follow Zuinglius whose ample glory Affords the World an everlasting Story Ye Prelats of these Times stoope downe and sée The Wisdome Valour and the Constancie Of this renowned Father whose deserts Ought to be printed in all noble Hearts He fell with Honour and all those that fall Guarded with Truth deserve a Funerall Adorn'd with Angels that all tongues may say Here lyes Relig'ons and the Churches stay Brave Zuinglius dy'd though it be hard to doe A valiant Souldier and a Martyr too IOHN COLLET The Life and Death of John Colet IOhn Colet was borne in London of honest and wealthy Parents His Father was twice Lord Major of that famous City to whom his Mother a chaste and fruitfull Matron brought forth eleven Sonnes and as many daughters of which numerous off-spring Iohn Colet was the eldest and sole Survivor the rest dyed before their Father whereby he became Heir to a very considerable fortune and yet nature to him was no lesse indulgent then fortune being indowed with all the Simmetry almost imaginable in a tall and comely Person In his younger yeeres he gave himselfe to the study of Phylosophy and in the seaventh after his Matriculation in the Vniversity obtained his degree of Master in Arts an honor not so much given to his Standing as due to his knowledge in the Liberall Sciences in none whereof he was ignorant in some exquisitly learned All Tullies woâ—ks were as familiar unto him as his Epistles neither was he any stranger to Plato and Plotinus whom he not oâ—ely read but conferred and paralleld perusing the one as a Commâ—ntator upon the other As for the Mathematickes there is scarce any part thereof wherein he was not seene abovâ— his yeeres certainly above expectation Having thus fethered his nest at home he began to looke abroad and improve his stock in forreigne Countries In France he added his Humanity what he thought necessary to the study of Divinity which thereafter he effectually prosecuted in Italie amongst the Ancients he was most taken with Dionysius Areopagita Origen Saint Cyprian St. Ambrose and Saint Hierom with St. Augustine whether out of Singularity or judgement amongst all the Fathers he seemed most disguised And yet he did not so mancipate himselfe to Antiquity but that as occasion served he sometimes survayed Aquinas Scotus and other Schoolmen In a word he was seene in both Lawes and singularly well read in History both Civill and Ecclesiasticall And because he saw that England had her owne Dant's and Petrarchs as well as Italie who have performâ—d the same here that they there those and these he both read and diligently imitated accommodating thereby his stile to the Pulpit and Preaching of the Gospel After his returne from Italie he made choyse to live at Oxford where he publickly
for his oâ—â—aâ—â—ons When a friend sent him 200. angels of gold from the metal-mines he bestowed them all on poore Students When Iohn the Elector gave him a new gowneâ— he said that he was made to much of for if here we receive a full recompence of our labours we shall hope for none in another life When the same Elector offered him a vayne of Metals at Sneberge he refused it lest he should incurre the tentations of the Divell who is Lord of treasure under the Earth He took nothing of Printers for his copies as he writeth saying I have no plenty of money and thus yet I deale with the Printers I receive nothing from them â—or recompence of my many Copies sometimes I receive of them one copy This I thinke is due to me whereas other writers yea translaters for every eight leaves have an Angel Concerning money given him thus he writeth The hundreth Angels given me I roceived by Tanbenhem and Schart gave me fifty that I stand in feare that God will give me my reward here But I protested that I would not so be satisfied by him I will either presently repay it or spend it For what should I doe with so much money I gave one halfe of it to P. Prior and made him a joyfull man He was very lovingly affectioned towards his children and gave them liberall education He kept in his house a School-master to traine them up in good arts and a godly life When he saw Magdalen his eldest daughter ready to dye he read to her in Esay 26.19 Thy dead servants shall rise againe together with my dead body shall they arise Awake and sing ye that dwell in the dust For thy dew is at the dew of hearbs and the earth shall cast out the dead Come my people enter into thy chambers and shut thy doores about thee Hide thy selfe as it were for a littâ—e moment untill the indignation be over-past My daughter enter thou into thy chamber with peace I shall ere long be with thee For God will not permit me to see the punishments hanging over the head of Germany And upon tâ—is wept plentifully But in publick when he went a long with the Herse he bridled his affection and was not seen to shed one teare And as all men of excellent spirits have a zealous anger in due place So Luther by nature was vehement but yet placable As appeareth in this that when Melancthon much moved to passion once came unto him and all the rest were very mute Luther uttered this Verse Vince animos irà mque tuam qui caeterà vinciâ— Thine owne heart overcome thy fury tame Who all things else hast stoutly overcame And then smiling saidâ— we will not further dispute of this matter and turned his speech to other occasions He foresaw and foretold many things as the combustion which rose in Germany saying I am very much afraid that if the Princes give eare to Duke George his ill counsell there will arise some tumult which will destroy all the Princes and Magistrates in all Germany and ingage in it all the Clergy Of the death of Frederick Elector of Saxony thus he writeth If God in heaven hath resolved in wrath to deale with us that neither our prayres nor counsels of amendment can hinder it let us obtaine this that our Josias may sleep in peace though the world be left to goe into its Babylon Of the covetousnesse of Germany and the dearth there thus he speaketh We feare Famine and we shall suffer it and finde no remedy for it And when as without necessity we are solicitous to prevent Famine like wicked and incredulous Gentles and neglect the word of God and his work he will permit shortly a dismall day to come upon us which will bring with it whole Wâ—inloads of ceares which he shall neither have power or meanes to escape Diverse other things he also foretold He had his health competently well but that sometimes he was troubled with the headach especially in his elder yeares Whereupon he was afraid of some violent Apoplexie and when he felt a swimming in his head or noyse in his eares he used to say Lord Iesu smite me gently for I am absolved from my sins according to thy word and am fed unto life eternall by thy body and blood Thine Apostle John and our Elector were taken out of this world by this kinde of death He endured often tentations whereupon he said All here are in health except Luther who is â—ound in body and without suffers at no mans hand in the world onely the Divel and all his Angels vex him He was of an indefferent stature of strong body of so Lion-like a quicknesse of his eyes that some could not endure to looke directly upon him when he intentively beheld them They say that one of mild spirit who could not endure in private to talke with Luther was courteously used by Luther yet was so pierced with the quicknesse of his eyes that being amazed he knew no course better then to run from him His voyce was mild and not very cleare whereupon when on a time there was mention at table about Pauls voyce which was not very perfect and full Luther said I also have a low speech and pronuntiation To whom Melancthon answered But this small voyce is heard very farre and neere In the year 1544. the 17. of November he finished his explication of Genesis which was his last publicke reading in the University which he concluded with these words Thus end I my explication on Genesis God grant that others may more rightly and truely expound it then I have done I cannot proceed farther therein my strength faileth me pray for me that it would please God to grant me a quiet and comfortable departure out of this life In the year 1546. Luther accompanyed with Melancthon viâ—â—ted his owne Country and returned againe in safety Not long after the Councell of Trent being begun and having â—â—te once or twice Luther was called againe by the Eâ—rles of Mansfield to his owne Country for to compose a dissention among them concerning their bounds and heritages Luther was not wont to deale in matters of this nature having been versed in sacred studyes all his life time but because he was borne at Isleben a towne in the territories of Mansfield he was willing to doe his Country service in this kind Wherfore making his last Sermon at Wittenberg the 17. day of Ianuary he toâ—ke his journey on the twenty third day And at Hall in Saxony lodged at Iustas Ionas his house where he stayed three dayes because of the roâ—ghnâ—sse of the waters and preached the 26. of Ianuary upon Pauls Conversion On the 28. day being Thursday at Hall he passed over the river with Iustas Ionas and his owne three sons and being in danger of drowning said to D r. Ionas Thinke you not that it would rejoyce the Divell very much if I and you and my three sons should
be drowned When he came to the Earles of Mansfield he was entertained by a hundred horsemen or more of the Court and was brought into Isleben very honourable but very sick and almost past recovery which thing he said did often befall him when he had any great businesse to undertake But using some meanes for cure of his infirmity he sate at supper with the company and so continued to doe from the 29. of Ianuary to the 17. of February and treated of the dfferences for whose determination he came thither In this time he preached sometimes and twice received the Lords Supper and publickely received two Students into the sacred order of the Ministery And at his lodging used much godly conference at Table with his friends and every day devoutly prayed The day before his death though he was somewhat weake yet he dined and supped with his company and at supper spak of divers matters and among other passages asked Whether in heaven we should know one another when the rest desired to heare his judgement thereof He said What befell Adam he never saw Eve but was at rest in a deep sleep when God formed her yet when he awaked and saw her he asketh not what she was nor whence she came but saith that she was flesh of his flesh and bone of his bone Now how knew he that He being full of the Holy Ghost and endued with the knowledge of God thus spake After the same manner we also shall be in the other life renewed by Christ and shall know our parents our wives and children and all about us much more perfectly then Adam knew Eve at her bringing to him After supper when he went aside to pray as was his custome the paine in his breast began to increase whereupon by the advise of some there present he tooke a little Vnicornes horne in wine and after that slept quietly an houre or two on a pallat neer the fire When he awaked he betooke himselfe to his chamber went to bed bidding his friends good nght admonished them who were present to pray God for the propagation of the Gospell because the Councell of Trent and the Pope would attempt wonderfull devises against it Having thus said after a little silence he fell a sleep But was awaked by the violence of his disease after midnight Then complained he againe of the narrownesse of his breast and perceiving that his life was at an end he thus implored Gods mercy and said O heavenly father my gratioâ—s God and Father of our Lord Iesus Christ thou God of Consolation I give the all hearty thanks that thou hast revealed to me thy Son Iesus Christ whom I beleeve whom I professe whom I love whom I glorifie whom the Pope of Rome and the rout of the wicked persecute aâ—d dishonour I beseech thee Lord Iesus Christ â—o receive my soul. O my gracious heavenly Father though I be taken out of this life though I must now lay downe this frailâ— body yet I certainely know that I shall live with with thee eternally and that I cannot be taken out of thy hands He added moreover God so loved the world that he gave his onely begotten Son that every one who beleeveth in him should not perish but have life everlasting And that in the 68. Psalme Our God is the God of salvation and our Lord is the Lord who can deliver from death And here taking a medicine and drinking it he further said Lord I render up my spirit into thy hands and come to thee And againe Lord into thy hands I commend my spirit thou O God of truth hast redeemed me Here as one falling asleep and without any bodily pain that could be discerned he departed this life And when Doctor Ionas and Caelius said O reverend father doe you dye in the constant confession ofâ— that doctrine of Christ which you have hitherto preached He answered so as he might be heard yea which was the last word he spake Thus he in his native Country not having seen it many years before dyed much lamented by many This â—ell on the eighteen day of Febru on the day in the Calender ascribed to Concord about three a clock in the morning in the great climactericall year of his age Soon after his body put into a coffin of Lead was carried in funerall manner to the Temple of Isleben where Iustas Ionas preached Then the Earles of Mansfield desired that his body should be interred within their territories But the Elector of Saxony required that he should be brought bark to Wittenberge In the returne thereof which way so â—vâ—r it went it was honourably attended and with much griefe accompanied out of each Princes Dominion and at lengh upon the twenty two of February in the afternone was brought to Wittenberg and was carried into the Temple neare adjoyning to the Castle with such a troope of Princes Earles Nobles their living as students and other people that the like was seldome or never seâ—n in that towne When the funerall rites were perforned Pomeranus preached to an assâ—mbly of many thousands And after that Melancthon with many teares and â—igheâ— made a funerall Oration When this was don the coffin with his body was put by the hands of divers learned men into the tombe near to the Pulpit in which he had made many learned Sermonâ— before divers Princes Electors and the Congregation of many faithfull Christians In a brazen plate his picture lively deciphered was there set up with Verses by it to this effect This Sepulchre great Luthers Corpes contanes This might suâ—â—ice yet read these following strains HEre in this Vrne doth Martin Luther resâ— And sweetly sleep in hope to rise most blest By whose rare pains firme faith and Christs free Grace Which formerly thick Fogs of Error base And Duskie Clouds â—j Wâ—rks desert hid quite Were well reduced to their ancient Light For when blind Superstition ruled All And did fair Trnth long time suppresse and thrall He by Gods Word and Spirits inspiration The Gospels Light re-spred for every Nation And well-instructed by Pauls sacred voyce Scorning Romes Cheats to teach pure Truth made choyce And as John Baptist in the Wildernesse Did Gods Lamp who heals Sin Preach and expresse So O Sweet Christ did Luther cleare thy booke When all the World was caught with Errors â—ooke And what the difference was betwixt the Law Whose tables Moses brake though God he saw Vpon Mount-Sinai and the Gospell sweet Which heales Sin conscious hearts which Gods wrath meet This difference lost to th' World he did restore That so Christs gifts of Grace might shine the more He stoutly did oppose Romes Cheats and Charmes And Papall rule which wrought Gods Saints great harmes Exhorting all Romes idols for to flye He many souls wan to true piety And mauger all Romes threats and snares most slie Finisht in Faith his Course most valiantly Dying in peace his Soule with Christ doth rest Crown'd with immortall Glory
Hampshire brought up at Schoole and sent from thence to New Colledge in Oxford where he stuied the Liberall Arts and the Tongues and afterwards the Civil-law He was of a pregnat wit and singular courage zâ—alous in Religion of nature apert and far from flattery hypocrisie and dissimulation from Oxford he travelled into Italie where he was in some danger for his Religion In King â—dward the sixth dayes he returned into England againe and had many conflicts with Bishop Gardiner He did much good in Hampshire being Archdeacon of Winchester all King Edwards dayes but in the beginning of Queene Maries Reign he was cast into Prison where he lay a yeer and a halfe before he was examined then he was sent for by Doctor Story and after some captious questions proposed to him he was committed Prisoner to the Bishop of Londons Cole-house unto which was adjoyned a little Blind house with a great pair of Stocks both for hand and foot but thanks be to God saith he I have not played of those Organs yet there hâ— found a godly Minister of Essex who desiring to speake with him did greatly lament his infirmity for through extremity of imprisonment he had yeelded to the Bishop of London and was seâ— at libertyâ— whereupon he left such an hell in his conscience that he could scarce refrain from destroying himselfe and could have no peace till going to the Bishops Register and desiring to see his Recantation he tore it in pieces whereupon the Bishop sending for him buffeted him pluckt off a great part of his beard and sent him to his Cole-house where Master Philpot found him very joyfull under the Crosse. Philpot being afterwardâ— sent for to the Bishop he asked him amongst other things why they were so merry in Prison to whom he answered We are in a dark comfortlesse place and therefore we solace our selves with singing of Psalmes after other discourse saith he I was carryed to my Lords Cole-house againe where I with my six fellow-prisoners doe rouse together in the straw as chearfully we thank God as others doe in their beds of down After sundry examinations he was by the Bishop set in thâ— stocks in a house alone of which he writes God be praised that he thought me worthy to suffer any thing for his names sake Better it is to sit in the stocks in this world then to sit in the stocks of a damnaple conscience at last he was condemned for an Heretick whereupon he said I thanke God I am an Hereticke out of your cursed Church but I am no Hereticke before God Being sent to Newgate he spake to the People as he went saying Ah good people blessed be God for this day having notice given over-night that the next day he should be burn'd he said I am ready God grant me strength and a joyfull resurrection and so he went to his chamber pouring out his spirit unto the Lord in Prayer and giving him most hearty thanks for accounting him worthy to suffer for his Truth Going into Smithfield the way was very foul whereupon two Officers took him up and bare him to the stake then said he merrily What will you make me a Pope coming into Smithfield he kneeled downe saying I will pay my Vowes in thee O Smithfield he kissed the stake saying Shall I disdain to suffer at thiâ— stake when my Lord and Saviour refused not to suffer a most vile death for me when the fire was hindled with much meekness and comfort he resigned up his spirit unto God An. Christi 1555. Couragious Philpot with a dauntlesse brow March'd to his death and would not once allow The least Submittance to erronious powers But Scorn'd to smell on their impoysn'd flowers And when he labour'd in the most distresse He was most chearfull and would still addresse Himselfe to Heaven where he was sure to find A healing Balsome to confirme his minde He prayed to God and having done he cry'd I thank I thanke thée Father and so dy'd THOMAS CRANMER The Life and Death of Thomas Cranmer THomas Cranmer was extracted from an ancient family in Lincolnshire as that derived it selfe from one of more antiquity still retaining the said name and Armes in â—â—rmandy Of his infancy and childhood we can give no other account then what is common to others of the same age as not capable of any extraordinary Actions but silently shaddowed under the â—nnocency and simplicity thereof Afterwards he was admitted into Iesus Colledge in Cambridge where he proceeded Master of Arts with generall applause for his learning and manners Here he happened to marry the Inkeepers wives kinswoman at the sign of the Dolphin An act beheld by some as destructive to his future preferment and deepely condemned by those who preferred height before holinesse and a rich and plentifull before a chaste and comfortable life Malicious tongues on this foundation built many foule and false Scandals against him some slandering him for to be an Ostler because of his often repairing to that Inne which causelesse report confuting it selfe with its own improbability his weeknesse and Patience overcame by contemning it Thus worthy Saint Helen Mother to Constantine the great was scoffed at to have been a Stable-groomes Daughter for her Zeale in searching the monuments of Christs nativity in Bethleham of whom Saint Ambrosse Bona Statularia quaedici maluit Stercoraria ut Christum lucrifaceret But Gods Providence who orders all things to the best some yeere after tooke Cranmers wife away which losseâ— proved a great gaine unto him For resuming his Studieâ— thereby to allay his sorrow and solitarinesse he became so eminent that the Society of Iesus Colledge chose him again into his Fellowship Indeed it was against the Fundamentall Law of the Vniversitie which provides Nolimus socios nostros esse mariâ—os vel maritatos yet seeing a Widdower is the second part of a Bachelor and Cranmers extraordinary learning a dispensation for himselfe by peculiar favour he waâ— reelected into that House How excellently he behaved himselfe therein one Instance for many At that time many unworthy Schollars scambled up into the highest degrees whose scarlet Gowns might seeme to blush the wearers Ignorance To prevent the dangerous consequences thereof and to render Degrees more considerable for the future Cranmer by generall consent was chosen Publicke Examiner of the sufficiency of such candidates for Degrees Herein he carried himselfe with such remarkeâ—ble moderation neither over remisse to incourage any unworthinesse to presume nor too riged to dishearten the endeavours of the ingenious that it is questionable whether his Carriage brought more profit to private Persons or credit to the University Some whose Graces for the present were stopt by him returned afterwards to thanke him because prefering rather to displease then hurt them the gentle Checke he gave them occasioned their greater diligence in the race of learning Here Cranmer lived till the infection of the Plague forced the students to leave their Colledges and
committed any faultâ— that week whom he would so reprove and lay the wrath of God before them that he much râ—formed them thereby He tooke extraordinary paines to fit such for the worke oâ— the Ministery as were growne up to it so that the Church received very much benefit from thence hâ—ving so many able Pastors sent forth into it Besides this he Preached every Lords day in the Church and that with such fervency and evident demonstration of the spirit that he was the instâ—ument of converting very many unto God He wrote also many Commentaries upon the Scriptures which being Printed and going abroadâ— into other Countries Beza meeting with that upon the Romans and Ephesians he wrote to a friend concerning them that he had gotten a treasure of incomparable value and that he had not met with the like before for breviâ—ie elegancy and judâ—ciousnesse He was so humble that he prefered all others before himselfe and laboured after privacie from publicke businesse that he might the better apply himselfe to his studies yet in the two last years of his life he was so involved in Publicke affaires that it much weakned his health He was greatly tormented with the stone yet did he not intermit his labours He was made Moderator in a Synod and chosen for one of the Commissioners of the Church in the intervalâ— of Synods In the year 1589. his disease so increased upon him that he was confined to his house and being removed into the Countrey ayre he seemed at first to be better but presently his disease returned with more violence so that he was forced to keepe his bed whereupon he set his House in order and his Wiâ—e after ten years barrennesse being with childe he commended her to the care of his friends two Noblemen coming to visit him he requested them from him to goe to the King and to intreat him in his name to take care of Religion and to persevere in it to the end as hitherto he had done and to reverence and esteeme the Pastors of the Church as it was meet And when the Pastors of Edenbrough came to him he made an excellent exhortatioâ— to them and profession of his sincerity and integrity in â—is place that God called him toâ— death approaching he made such a divine and heavenly speech as astonished the hearers and when the Physitians were preparing Physick for him he said Tu Deus medeberis mihi thou Lord wilt heal mee then he prayed fervently that God would pardon his sins for Christ's sake and that he might have an happy departure enjoy God's presence which he often breathed after saying I have hitherto seen but darkely in the glasse of his word O Lord grant that I may enjoy the eternall fruition of thy countenance which I have so much desired and longed for the day after diverse of the Magistrates of Edenburg coming to him he spake to them to be very carefull of the University desiring them to choose into his room Henry Charter a man every way fit for that imployment he commended to their care also his wife professing that he had not laid up one penny of his stipend and therefore hoped they would provide for her when he had their promise for those things he said I blesse God I have all sences intire but my heart is in heaven and Lord Iesus why shouldest not thou have it it hath been my care all my life long to dedicate it to thee I pray thee take it that it may live with thee for ever C 〈…〉 Lord Iesus put an end to this miserable life hast Lord and tarry not Come Lord Iesus and give me that life for which thou hast redeemed me and when some told him that the next day was the Sabbath he said thy Sabbath O Lord shall begin my eternall Sabbath my eternall Sabbath shall take it's beginning from thy Sabbath The next morning feeling his approaching death he sent for Master Belcanqual to pray with him who in his prayer desired the Lord if he pleased to prolong his life for the good of his Church whereupon he said I am a weary of this life all my desire is that I may enjoy the celestiall life that is hid with Christ in God and thus continued he in such heavenly prayers and speeches till the evening and quietly resigned up his spirit unto God Anno Christi 1598. and of his Age forty three Renowned Rollock a most learned Scot Deserves also as his most worthy lot A Crown of Bayes his learned browes to dresse Who did such parts and piety expresse Such gravity mixt with sweet Clemency Such love to truth and spotlesse verity As that the Scottish States minding to make At Edenburg an Academ did take Especiall notice of him and then sent Desiring him to take that Government Which he perform'd with such diligence That Scotland reapt great benefit from thence He on the sacred Scriptures Comments wrote Wherof two were of such renowned note That Beza of them gave his witnesse fair That they were rich and prizelesse Trâ—asures rare This precious Saint thus piouâ—ly did spend His dayes on earth had heavens Crown in th' end The Life and Death of Nicolas Hemingius who dyed Anno Christi 1600. NIcolas Hemingius was born at Loland in Denmarke Anno Christi 1513. of honest Parents but his Father dying when he was young his Grandfather brought him up carefully in learning placing him forth in diverse Schools and when he had laid a good foundation of learning there he had an ardent desire to goe to Wittenberg which was made famous by Philip Melancthon's Lectures and having gotten some little mony in his purse he traveled thitherward but by the way some thieves met him and stripped him of all that he had yet when he came to Wittenberg he found thâ— people very charitable to him especially Melancthon there he remained five yeares and by his writing for and attending upon richer students and teaching some privately he maintained himselfe When he returned home he had an ample testimony from Melancthon for his excellent wit and learning and was there intertained by Olaus Nicholas to teach his daughters and from thence he was chosâ—n to be Pastor at Hafnia and accordingly ordained to itâ— which place he discharged with much diligence and faithfulnesâ— and many young students resorting to him he read privatly to them and afterwards was chosen Hebrew Professor in that University In the year 1557. he was made Doctor in Divinity and performed his place with much sedulity twenty six yâ—â—res Anno Christi 1579. when he was growne old and exhausted with his daily labors Frederick the second King of Dâ—nmark gave him a liberall Pension upon which he lived holily and comfortably all the remainder of his dayes som years before his death he grew blind and was troubled with severall diseases desiring nothing more then that he might be dissolved and be with Christ A little before his death he expounded the 103. Psalme with so
much fervor efficacy and power of the holy Ghost that all that heard him wondred at it and shortly after resigned up his spirit â—nto God Anno 1600. and of his age 87. Hemingius doth deserve to be Recorded in each memory Who for his wit and worthy parts In Learning Tongues and exc'lent Arts Was by Melancthon much respected And for his learned gifts elected Hebrew Professour worthily In Hafnia Universitie Where six and twenty years he stai'd With great estéem and there was made A Doctor in Theologie And full of years and love did dye The Life and Death of James Heerbrand who dyed Anno Christi 1600. JAmes Heerbrand was borne at Noricum in the year 1521. of an ancient Family his Father was one of Luther's Discipleâ— and seeing the towardlinesse and promptnesse of his Son was carefull to bring him up in Religion and Learning at twelve years old his Father bought him a fair Bible which he diligently read over Afterwards he went to Vlm where he studied the Tongues and at seventeen years old his Father sent him to Wittenberg to hear Luâ—her and Melancthon in the year 1538. which year was famous for divers things for then the Kingdome of Denmark imbraced the Gospell the Emperour and King of France met together the Bible was Printed in English at Paris the University at Argentine was erected the sect of the Antinomians was detected thâ— Marquesse of Brandenburg imbraced the Augustine Confession and the Sea by the Kingdome of Naples was wholly day for eight miles together out of which place fire and ashes brake forth so abundantly that many places were miserably destroyed thereby In the University of Wittenberg Heerbrand studied the Arts with great diligence and was so sparing of his timâ— that he would not intermit one houre from his Studies insomuch that other Students called him Suevicam Nocâ—â—am the Swevian night-crow He hâ—ard Lutheâ— and Melancthons Lâ—ctures with much diligence and in the yeâ—r 1540. he commâ—nced Master of Artsâ— He Preachâ—d also abroad in the Villages on the Sâ—bbath dayes Thus having spent five years there in his Studies he returned home with ample testimonies from Melancthon and the University When he came home the Pastors of the Church â—ppointed him to Preach which he performed with great approbation and commendation of all His Parents rejoycing much at his proficâ—ency would needs have him imploy his talent in his owne Countrey and at Stutgard Snepfius being Superintendent examined him â—nd finding his abilities he said Dominus te mihi obtulit the Lord hath offered thee unto me Being but twenty two years old he was made Deacon at Tubing three years after he married a wife by whom he had eight Sons and three Daughters shortly after that accursed Interim coming forth he amongst other Ministers that rejected it was banished from Tubing and being out of imployment he studied Hebrew till Prince Vlrick being dead his Son Christopher succeeding him called back the Ministers and Heerbrand amongst them to their former places He also made him Pastor of Herrenberg shortly after he commenced Doctor in Divinity and for four years and an halfe he studied the Fathers In the year 1556. he was sent for by Charles Marquesse of Baden to reform Religion in his Dominions where also he prescribed a form of Ordination of Ministers Presently after he was chosen to be the Divinity Professor at Tubing and after that the Pastor and Superintendent also In the year 1562. he was sent for by the Duke of Saxonie to be the Professor at Ienes who profered to allow him the stipend of one thousand Florens per annum but he refused it continuing at Tubing where he had much honour and respect his wife having lived with him fifty years and an half dyed who being thâ— staffe of his old age he waâ— much afflicted for her losse and began to grow weaker and weaker whereupon he refigned his Office and had a stipend allowed him by his Prince and so prepared himselfe for death He was much troubled with the Gout which he bore with much patience often using that saying of the Apostle Godlinesse is profitable to all things having the promise of this life and that which is to come He fell into a Lethargie and â—o dyed in the year 1600. and of his Age 79. James Heerband was a rare Divine most grave Deserves a Garland of Fames flowers to have Who in all Learning was so excellent And at his Studies constant diligent That his contemporary Tâ—ndents said He was a Sweviary night Crow And he made Such benefit his Studies up to rear When he did Luther and Melancthon hear As oft he did that he himselfe became A Preacher rare and of surpassing fame Commencing Doctor of Divinity Made Tubings Pastor with respect most high Superintendent also there elected And of the Germain Princes much respected At last his wife who fifty years at least Had liv'd with him did dye his strength decreast Together with her losse and sicknesse so Upon his féeble corps began to grow That néer the age of fourscore yéers in peace He chang'd earths wars for heav'ns eternall peace The Life and Death of David Chytraeus who dyed Anno Christi 1600. DAvid Chytreus was born in Ingelfing in Swevland in the year 1530. of godly and religious Parents who seeing his â—owardlinesse and ingenuous nature were carefull to educate him both in Religion and Learning the principles whereof he drunke in with such celerity that his Father â—ooke much pleasure in him and became an earnest and frequent suiter unto God That his Son might be fitted for and imployed in the worke of the Ministry and for this end when he was scarce seven years old he sent him to School to Gemmingen and after two years stay there he removed him to Tubing where he was educated under excellent Schoolmasters and afterwards admitted into that Universitie and whilest he was very young he commenced Bachelor of Art studied the Languages Arts and Divinity under Snepfius In all which time he profited so exceedingly that at fifteen years of age he commenced Master of Arts with the generall approbation of the University and presently after having a large allowance from a worthy Knight Sir Peter Menzingen he travelled to Wittenberg where he waâ— entertained by Philip Melancthon into his Family so that he did not onely gain much profit by his publick Lectures bâ—t by private convers with him also which happinesse he so esteemed that all his life after he acknowledged that next under God he was bound to Philip Melancthon for his proficiency in Learning When he came first to Melancthon and delivered some Letters of commendation in his behalf Melancthon finding in them that he was Master of Arts looking upon him he wondred at it saying Are you a Master of Arts yea said Chytraeus it pleased the University of Tubing to grace me with that degree Can you said Melancthon understand Geeke which he affirming he gâ—ve him Thucydides to read and construe
after Prince Casâ—â—mire dyed which much turned his griefe but Frederick the fourth being now come to hiâ— age was admitted into the number of the Electors â—nd was very carefull of the good both of the Chuâ—â—â— University An. Christi 1594. Tossan was choosen Rector of the University of Heidleberg and the year after there brake out a grievous Pestilence in that City which drove away the students but Tossan remained Preaching comfortably to his people and expounding the Penitentiall Psalmes to those few students that yet remained Anno Christi 1601. he bâ—ing grown very old and infirm laid down his Professors place though the University much opposed it and earnestly sollicited him to retain it still bâ—â— God purposed to give him a better rest after all his labors and â—orrowes for having in his Lectures expounded the booke of Iob to the end of the 31. Chapter he concluded with those words The words of Iob are ended Presently after falling sick he comforted himself with these texts of Scripture I have fought the good fight of Faith c. Bee thou faithfull unto the death and I will give thee the Crown of life Wee have a City not made with hands eternall in the heavens and many other such like he also made his Wâ—ll and set down therein a good confession of his Faith and so departed quietly in the Lord Anno Christi 1602. and of his age sixty one He was a very holy man exemplary in his life had an excellent witâ— strong memory eloquent â—n speech was very charitable and cheaâ—full in his conversation and kept correspondence with all the choycest Dâ—â—vines in those times Germane Tossanus doth deserve likewise That we his honoured name should memorize Who notwithstand all th' afflictions great Which furious faithlesse Popish Foes did threat And prosecute him with from place to place And him and his dear wife with terrours chace In danger oft of death yet mightily The Lord preserv'd them from Romes cruelty He was a learned and laborious Preacher And alwayes 'gainst Romes errors a Truth teacherâ— Eloquent witty holy humble wise And now his soul blest Heaven â—eateâ—â—es The Life and Death of William Perkins IF the Mountainâ— of â—ilboahâ— 2 Samuâ—l 1. were condâ—mned and cursed by King David that nâ— dew nor râ—in should fall â—pon them because valiant Saul and piouâ— Ionathan were there unhappily slain then by rules of opposition such places deserve to be praised and blessed where godly men have had their happy Nativity Amongst which let Mâ—rston in Warwickeshire com in for his just share of commendation where Master William Perkiâ—s was born and brâ—d in his infancy 2. How he passed his childhood is â— mattâ—r befoâ—â— daâ—â—d in the Register of my Intilligence whereof I can receivâ— no instructions Onely I dare be bold to conclude that with Saint Paul 1. Cor. 13. 11. When he was a childe he spake 〈◊〉 a childe he understood as a childe he thought as a childe whose infancy as he with simplicity so we passe it over with silence 3. But no sooner 〈◊〉 he admitted 〈◊〉 Christs Colledge in Cambridge but quiâ—â—ly the wilde firâ— of his youth began to break out An age which one may termâ—â—he Midsommer Moone and dog-dayes of mans life It is not certaine whether his owne disposition or the bad company of others chiefly betrayed him to thesâ— extravagancies Sure it is he tooke such wild libâ—â—â—â—es to himselfe 〈◊〉 cost him many a sigh in his reduced â—geâ— Probably 〈…〉 Providence permitted him to ruâ— himselfe with the prodigall Son out of breath that so he might be the better enabled experimentally to reprâ—â—â— others of their vanity 〈◊〉 simpathizing with their sad condition and be th◠〈…〉 skil'd how to comfort and counsell them on their â—â—pentance Why should Godâ— arme which afterwards grâ—â—â—ously overtook Master Perkins be too short to reach others in the same condition 4. When firâ—◠〈…〉 mucâ—â—ddicted to the study of naturall Magicke digging so deepe in natures mine to know the hidden causes and sacred quallities of things that some conceive that he bordered on Hell it â—â—â—fe in his curiosity Beginning to be a practitioner in that black Art the blacknesse did not affright him but name of Art lured him to admit himselfe as â—â—â—dent thereof Howeveâ— herein we afford no certaine beliefe the rather because other mens ignorance might cast this aspersion upon him Who knowes not that many things as pretty as strangâ— may really be effected by a skilfull hand lawfull and laudable meanes which some out of a charitable errour will interpret a Miracle and others out of uncharitable ignorance will nickname Sorcery A very Load-stone in some Scholars hand before a silly Townsmans eye is enough to make the former a Conjurer 5. The happy houre was now come wherein the stragling sheep was brought home to the fold and his vanity and mildnesse corrected into temperance and gravity It is certainly known and beleeved that if Quick-silver could be fired which all confesse difficult and most conclude impossible it would amount to an infinite treasure so when the roving parts the giddy and unstable conceits of this young Scholar began to be setled his extravagant studyes to be confined and centered to Divinity in a very short time he arrived at an incredable improvement 6. He began first to preach to the prisoners in Cambridge Castle being then himselfe Fellow of Christ Colledge Here he truely preached Christs precepts Freely you have received freely give And with Saint Paul made the Gospell of Christ of no expence yea he followed Christs example to preach deliverance to the Captives whose bodies were in a prison and souls in a dungeon such generally their ignorant and desperate condition Here though free himselfe he begot sons to God in fetters Many an Onesimus in bonds was converted to Christ Mock not at this good mans meane imployment neither terme him with such as sit in the seate of the scornfull the Goale-birds Chaplaine But know nothing is base which in it selfe is lawfull and done in order to the glory of God yea better it is to be a true preacher in a prison then a flatterer in a Princes pallace 7. But so great a star could not move alwayes in so small a sphear His merits promoted him to a Cangregation of greater credit in the Town of Cambridge where he was most constant in preaching Wherein as no man did with more vehemency remove sin so none either with more passionate affection bemone the condition of obstinate siners or with sounder judgment give them directions for their future amendment Luther did observe that Thunder without rain doth more harme then good wherof he maks this application that Ministers who are alwaies threatning of legall terrors to offenders except also they seasonably drop the dew of direction giving them orders and instructions to better their estates are noâ— wise Master builders but pluck downe and build nothing up againe Whereas Master Perkins so cunningly interweaved terrours
ABEL REDEVIVUS or The dead yet speaking By T. Fuller and other Eminent Divines Mors vltima linea rerum est Nunc levior cippus non imprimit ossat Laudat yosteritas nunc non é manibus illis Nunc non é tumulo fortunague favilla Nascuntur viola Pers Sam 37 Sould by Iohn Stafford at the George at Fleete bridge 1652 Ro Vaughan Sculp THE EPISTLE To the READER SVch honour saith the a Psalme 149 9. Psalmist have all his Saints His Saints emphatically Divine ProvideÌ„ce foreseeing that in after ages some would usurp the title of Sainâ—ship to whom it did not belong His Saints exclusiuely casting out Saints traitors as Becket and Garnet Saint hyâ—ocrites and many others who in the same sence as Auri sacra fames may be termed Sacri or Sancti Saints 2. But what honour have all his Saints Marke what went before as it is written buâ— by whom and where Though Chapters and Verses be of later date the holy Spirit might have cited the Book O no! He to quicken our Industry referres us to the Word at large However Search the Scriptures and therein we shall meet with many honours afforded to the Saints both whilst they were living and when they were dead on which alone we shall insist 3 This honour also is twofold either what God or what Man bestoweth upon them the latter onely is proper for our present purpose and brancheth it selfe into Honour done to their Bodyes or to their Memories 4 Of the former is their Decent Interment according to their quality Thus Iehojadah was promoted to a Sepulcre amongst the Kings of Iudah b 2 Cron. 24.16 Hezechiah whose signall holinesse was Paramount whilst he was living had his Tombe advanced the c 2 Cron. 32.33 highest of all other Kings However this Honour hath not been universall to all Saints many have missed thereof especially in time of Persecution as appears by the complaint of the Psalmist 5 Honour to their Memories is more certaine being sometimes paid them very abundantly even from those who formerly were so niggardly and covetous as not to afford them a good word in their life time Defunctus amabitur idem Many are made Converts by the godly ends of good men as the d Matth. 27.54 Centurian himself who attended and ordered the crucifying of Christ after his expiring brake forth into that testimony of him Verily this was the Sonne of God So such as rail at revile curse condemne persecute execute pious People speake other language of them when such men have passed the Purgation of Death and confesse them faithfull and sincere servants of God 6 The last Honour is Imiâ—ation of their vertuous examples The Papists bâ—ag that Stapleton their great controversiall Divine was borne on that very day whereon Sir Thomas More was put to death but Providence so ordereth it that out of the ashes of dead Saints many living oneâ— doe spring and sprout by following the pious precedents of such godly persons deceased This was a maine motive of publishing the ensuing Treatise to furnish our present Age with a Magazeen of religious Patterns for their Imitation 7 There is a Monument in Palestine which at e Adricomius de terra sancta Modinum was erected for the Maccabees consisting of seven Pedestals and on them as many Pyramids under the bottoms whereof their Bodies lye buried whilest their tops serve even at this day for Sea-markes to direct Marrâ—ners sailing in the Mediterranean towards the Haven of Ioppa in the Hâ—ly Land Not unlike whereunto for the use and service thereof is this following Discourse mâ—de partly to doe right to the memory of these Heroes deceased and partly to guide and conduct us to arrive at the samâ— hâ—ppinesse by steering our course according to the purity of their lives and constancy of their deaths 8 Here may we finde many excellent Preachers who first reformed themselves that their Doctrine might take the better effect in others For as one who would most mannerly intimâ—te to another any spot or foulenesse in his face doth wipe hiâ— owne face in the same place that so the other beholding him may collect where and how to amend any thing that is amisse So these worthy Ministers gave others to understand how to rectifie their faults by exemplary clensing and clearing their owne lives and Conversations 9 But Most remarkable are many Confessors here briefly described for their constancy in persecution It was as Hegesippus reports an observation of Antonius the Emperour that the Christians were most couragious and confident alwayes in Earthquakes whilst his owne heathen Souldiers were at such accidents most fearfull and dis-spirited The same holds true here in many worthy Saints in such concussions and commotions of Church and State wherein all was almost turned upside-downe they acquited themselves most fearless and valiant still preferring a good conscience a grace very worthy of our Imitation especially in this Age when the very Foundations are shaken and most at a losse how to behave themselves God grant when men are at their wits end they may be at the beginning of their faith valiantly to hold out in the Truth 10 But the valour of some Martyrs shewed most exalted Patience The Roman Gladiators set â—orth and designed to Death when despairing to come off alive tooke all their care honeste decumbere to fall down in a decent posture so contriving their Bodies into a modest Method that no uncomlinesse might therein be discovered So was it in these Martyrs and ought to be in us if called into their condition all their sollicituousnesse was taking leave of life to entertain Death with so sweet a deportment that they might â—etray no unworthinesse or meannesse in minde in their latter end 11 So much for the occasion and matter of this worke As for the Makers thereof they are many some done by Doctor Featly now at rest with God viz. The lives of Iewell Reynolds Abbot and diverse others Some by that reverend and learned Divine Master Gataker viz. The Lives of Peter Martyr Bale Whitgiâ—t Ridley Whitaker d That pa 523. and not that pag. 328. which was printed before a mor exact Copy was procured Parker and others Doctor Willeâ—s life by Doctor Smith his Son in Law Erasmus his life by the reverend Bishop of Kilmore The life of Bishop Andrewes by the judicious and industrious my worthy friend Master Isaackson and my meannesse wrote all the lives of Berengarius Hus Hierom of Prague Archbishop Cranmer Master Fox Perkins Iunius c. Save the most part of the Poetry was done by Master Quarles Father and Son sufficiently known for their abilities therein The rest the Stationer got transcribed out of Mr. Holland and other Authors What remaines but to condole the sad condition of our dayes comming short of the former Age and daily wayning thinnesse in Eminent Divines caused from our present distractions We read Ioshuah 3.16 that the waters of Iordan
which came downe from above namely from the two Springs of Ior and Dan stood still and the rest failed and were cut off running into the the Sea of the Plaine otherwise called the DEAD SEA so that betwixt both the river of Iordan was dryed up into a faire passage over it I feare whilst the streame of a new supply from the two Fountaines of Learning and Religion in this Kingdome is much disturbed and partly obstructed in these tumultuous times and whilst the present Generation of eminent Divines maketh haste to their graves able Ministers will almost be drayned dry in the Kingdome The rather because as the arrow mortally wounded Ahab betwixt the joynts of his Armour so in the interstitium betwixt two Disciplines and give me leave to tearme Discipline the Armour of the Church Episcopacy put off and another Government not as yet close buckled on Prophanenesse and Licenciousnesse have given a great grievous wound to the Church of God for the speedy cure whereof joyn thy Prayers with his who is Thy servont in any Christian office THO. FULLER Walth Abbey THE TABLE A page Amsdorsius 246 Andreas 387. Andrewes 440. Abbat 538. B Berengarius 1. Bilney 121. Buâ—re 153. Bradford 179. Bugenhagius 280. Brentius 292. Bullenger 329. Boquine 347. Bucolizer 364. Babington 455. Beza 465. Bale 502. Benedictus 520. Bolton 586. C Colet 97. Caralostadius 113. Capito 135. Cruciger 144. Cranmer 223. Calvin 266. Câ—emnisius 307. Chytraeus 417. Cowper 558. D Diazeus 142. Deering 341. Danaeus 408. Drusius 533. E Erasmus 57. Erpenius 582. F Frith 118. Farellus 286. Fox 377. Fagius 146. G George Prince of Anhalt 164. Grindall 350. Gilpin 352. Gulterus 372. Gerardus 511. Grynaeus 535. H Husse â—2 Hooper 172. Hesperius 264. Humfried 386. Hemingius 413. Heerbrand 415. Holland 500. Hedio 163. I Ierom of Prague 21. Iustas Ionas 165. Iohn a Lasco 243. Iewell 301. Illiricus 343. Iunius 441. K Knox. 319. L Luther 31. Leo Iudae 136. Latimer 217. M Myconius 138. Melancthon 234. Marlorat 245. Musculus 248. N Nowell 422. O Oecolampadius 109. Olevian 373. P Peter Martyr 205. Philpot. 221. Pellican 229. Parker 328 and 523. Perkins 431. Polanus 499. Piscator 564. Pareus 577. R Rogers 167. Ridley 191. Ramâ—â— 325. Rollâ—â—k 410. Reynolds 477. S Saunders 169. Strigelius 290. Simlerus 344. Sohinus 384. Sadeel 397. Sands 452. Scaliger 498. Scultetus 584. T Tindall 126. Taylor 176. Tremelius 346. Tossanus 424. Trelcaâ—ius 464. V Vrbanius Regius 130. Vergerius 288. Viretus 299. Vrsin 361. W Wicklief 8. Wigandus 367. Whitaker 401. Whitgift 457. Willet 565. Whatley 592. Z Zuinglius 85 Zegedine 314. Zanchius 390. BERENGARIVS The Life and Death of Berengarius WE read Acts 27.20 when Saint Paul was tossed with the Tempest that neither Sunne nor Starres for many dayes appeared This may passe for the dolefull Embleme of the dismall darkenesse in the depth of Popery wherein Berengarius lived the subject of our ensuing discourse and before whom from the expiring of the Primative Age till his entrance into the Church little considerable light of knowledge shined amongst many Errours and much ignorance 2 We have not been idle in seeking but unsuccesfull in the finding the date of Berengarius birth and can likewise give no account of his Parentage and extraction Herein he was not unlike the River Nilus unknown and obscure for its Fountaine but famous and renowned for his Streames and his birth may seeme to be eclipsâ—d by the resplendant lustre of his life And Towres in France seated on the river Loyer was his native City wherein he was borne about tâ—e yeâ—r of our Lord 1020. as by proportion of Cronologie may probably be collected And it is observable that as the City of Towres gave the first being to Berengarius so â— Gate of that City called Saint Hues gate in at and neere which they used to meet gave the denomination to the Huâ—anites or modern French Protestants which in the point of Transubstantiation sâ—cceed to the opinion of Berengarius or rather to the truth of the doctrine it selfe 3 Here we must not omit that some have mâ—intained that this Berengarius came over with William the Conquerour into England and by his bounty received the Castle of a Camb. Brittan in Northhampton Barnewell in Northamptonshire for his possession But the mistake ariseth by confounding him with another Berengarius his namesake surnamed Le Mâ—igne or the Monke which also added countenance to their first error though indeed he was a Martiall man and no Ecclesiasticall person on whom the King conferred that Castle Thus though we should have â—eene right glad to have had this worthy Schollar our Countryâ—man though not by birth yet by habitation accounting it Englands honour that he was infeofted with faire demeynes therein yet because all is grounded upon an Errour no counterfeit credit nor false favours shall be assumed by us on others mistakes 4 Having profited in the Schoole above his equals under Fulbertus his Master the World began to take notice of his abilities and at last he was preferred to be Archdeacon of Aâ—giers a man of a bold spirit and daring resolution as God alwayes suits men for the worke they undertake We may observe in Bâ—ttels that they set those who are best arm'd â—o charge in the first ranke and order them to follow who are not so compleatly weaponed God in like manner in his wisdome appointed that sucâ— Confessours of the Truth who were to make the firsâ— Breach into the Armies of Antichrist should be accoutred Cappaâ—pae with undaunted courages such as this Berengarius and Luther were though men of meeker mindes and milder dispositions may afterwards be well used in the same service 5 For his life and conversation it was so blamelesse that therein he starved the malice of all his adversaries the long teeth of whose spight could finde nothing to feede upon He is reported not to have suffered any woman to come in his sight not because he was a hater of their sex but because he was to deale with dangerous adversaries he would warily cut off all occasions of suspition and in some cases we may say that over-much wariÌ„nesse is but even measure and caution if it be not too much will be too little 6 The maine matter wherein he dissented from the current of the Roman Church and is honoured for a Champion of the Truth was in the point of Transubstantiation an Errour which crept one of the last into the Church and was the first that was most vigorously opposed It took the rise from some extravagant expressions of Damascene and Theophilact who endeavouring to shew the reality of Christs presence in the Sacrament scattered such florishing language to that purpose flowers though they cannot feede may sometimes infect that though well intending yet ill interpreted gave occasion to their unskilfull Râ—â—ders who more minded the words then the matter from such Rhetoricall premises to conclude a Dogmaticall point
indited rather from his Cowardise then Conscience Oâ—r Illyricus in His catalogue of the witnesses of the Truth affords him a principall place therein We leave him to stand or fall to his owne master according to that concluding Disticke which we find in an Aauthor Cum nihil ipse vides propria â—uin labe laboret Tu tua fac cures caetera mitte Deo Seeing nought thou seest but faults are in the best Looke Thou unto thy selfe leave God the rest 16 Remarkeable are his words wherewith he breathed out his last gaspe which Illyricus reporteth to this Effect now am I to goe and appeare before God either to be acquitted by him as I hope or condemned by him as I feare Which words as they savour not of that full assurance of Salvation which God vouchsafeth to many of his servants so they carry not with them any offensive Breath of Despaire And it is no contradiction in Christianity to rejoyce before God with trembling And in this Twilight we leave Berengarius to that mercifull God who knoweth whereof we are made and remembereth we are but dust Most worthily may this Divine Old Berengarius fairely shine Within this Skie of lustrious Starres Who 'gainst Romes errours fought Truths warres Confuting with high approbation Romes sigment Transubstantiation Which did that Hierarchie so vex And with such passion so perplex That they would never give him rest But did his Soule so much molest That at the last by fraud and force They made him with most sad remorse Two severall times his Cause recant Him of his Crown thus to supplant Thus O thus oft Sols raye most rare With duskie clouds ecclipsed are IOHâ—N WICKLIâ—â—â— The Life and Deth of John Wicklief AMongst many famous Writers in this Nation as Beda Alckvine Iohn Carnotenesis Nigellus Neckam Sevall Bacanthorpe Ockam Hampoole of Armach this Wicklief is not the least of worth he was famous both for Life and Learning he was brought up in the famous Vniversity of Oxford in Merton Collâ—dge he gave himselfe after he was Master of Arts to the study of Schoole Divinity wherein having an â—xcellent acute wit he became excellently well qualified and was admired of all for his singular Learning and sweâ—tnâ—sse of behavior in King Edward the thirds time who protested that his chiefe end and purpose was to call backe the Church from her Idolatry especially in the matter of the Sacrament He was much favoured by Iohn of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster and the Lord Henry Percy who defended and protected him from his raging adversaries and Bishops And when Pope Gregory the eleveeth sent his Bull to Oxford to require them to root out Wicklâ—ef's Tares as he called them the Proctors and Masters were in long debate whether they should receive it or reject it In the time of King Richard the second this Wicklief was brought before the Bishops at Lambeth and had many Articles put in against him but what by the meanes of some Courtiers and Citizens of London he was again released After this William Barton Vice-chancellor of Oxford wiâ—h some other Doctors set forth an Edict against him and his followers whereupon he published a confession of his Doctrine Anno Christi 1382. the Archbishop of Canterburie held a Convocation at London and condemned the Articles of Wicklief as Heretical and when the said Archbishop with many of his adherents were gathered together about this business just as they were readie to begin their debate there fell out a great and generall Earthquake which so affrighted manie of them that they desisted from their business yet all means were used for the suppressing of his opinions but through God's mercie they could never bee exstirpated to this daie He was a great enemie to the swarms of begging Friers with whom it was harder to make war then with the Pope himselfe He denied the Pope to be the Head of the Church and pronounc'd him to be Antichrist he confuted and condemned his Doctrine about Bulls Indulgences c. The Bishop of Rome lost by his Doctrine the power of making and ordaining Bishops in England and the Tenths of spirituall promotions also the gains of his Peter-pence Whereupon Polidore Virgil cals him an infamous Hereticke He affiâ—med the Scripture to be the supreme Judg of Controversies condemned Transubstantiation c. He was a painfull and faithfull preacher of the Gospell under that famous King Edward the thiâ—d who alwaies favored and protected him against the rage of his adversaries In the raign of Richard the second he was by the power of his adversaries banished yet in all his affliction he shewed an undanted spirit At last returning from Exile he died in the yeere of our Saviour Jesus Christ whom he had Preached 1387. and was buried the last day of December at his Parsonage of Lutterworth in Leicester-shire But in the yeer 1428. which was 41. yeeres from the time of his death his dead body was by the Decree of Pope Martin the fifth and Counsell of Sene dig'd up and burned with the Execreations of that fiery Pope thus he found the cruelty of them being dead whom he had being living taught to be so He writ as Pius Aenaeas testifies more then two hundred faire volumnes most of which were burned by Sùbinck Arch-bishop of Prague in Bohemia The Catalogue of his Works you may reade in the Centuries of Ioâ—n Bale somes of them I have here set downe 1 Of Christ and antichrist 2. Of Antichrist and his members 3. Of the truth of the Scriptures 4. Of the fountain of Eâ—rors 5. A booke of Conclusions 6. 7. Of Ecclesiasticall and Civill government 8 Of the Impostures of Hipocrites 9. Of Blasphemy 10. Lectures on Daniel 11. On the Apocalyps 12. Of the marriage of Priests 13. The Divels craft against Religion 14. His policy to overthrow faith 15. Of Apostacy 16. Two bookes of Metaphysickes one containing 12. Bookes 17. Glosses upon the Scripture 18. Of falling away from Christ. 19. Of truth and lying Besides these he writ many of Philosophy and translated the Bible into the English tongue making Prefaces and Arguments to every Booke he also translated the twelve Bookes of Clement the Parson of Lanthon containing the harmony of the Evangelists And thus went out this Lampe of England of whom one thus hath said With our old English writers rare John Wicklief justly might Compare For Learning Life and solid Witt And many Works he rarely Writt Contending stoutly 'gainst Romes Errours Nere daunted by their threats or terrours But to his death still fought faiths fight And thus went out this Lamp of Light But being dead Rome did so rave 'Gainst this Faiths Champion that from 's grave They digged-up his Bones with ire And burnt as Hereticks in fire Thus was Romes Folly Rage exprest To burn dead Bones of Soules at rest IOHANNES HVS The Life and Death of John Huss THE faire fruit of effects is vertually couched in the small seeds of their causes 1 Iohn Huss
heart But when the fire began to be kindled that furious Element was more mercifull unto him then were his Executioners For whereas fire hath a double property to burn and to stifle here it was pleaâ—ed to make use of the latter quality as the milder and meeker of the twaine Except we shall say it was rather the Pitie of the wind than the favour of the fire which drove the flame so full upon his face that it quickly choaked him and may be presumed senselesse though he moved a while after His heart which was found amongst his bowels fiâ—st beaten with staves and Clubbes was afterwards pricked upon a sharpe sticke and rosted at the fire apart untill it was consumed The least remnant of his ashes were gathered up and cast into the rever of Rhine so if possible for ever to extirpate his memory 18 One memorable passage must not be forgotten in the life time of Huss which is conceived almost to amount to a prophecy he had a dreame as he writes in his forty fifth Eâ—istle being a letter written to the Lord Iohn de Clumâ—e how he beheld in his Church at Bethlehem in Paris certaiâ—e men to race and pull out the images of Christ and the next day as it seemed unto hiâ— many other Painters made more and fairer images than formerly and the Painters with much people about them said in merriment and kind of derision Let the Bishops and Priests come now and put out these Pictures Hereat the people much rejoyced and Huss himselfe fell a laughing which caused him to awake 19 I know that generally dreames are nothing but Fancies descant on the former dayes worke And he that layeth too much pressure on such slender props may be layed in the dust How ever it was verified in the event that many worthy Christians the truest Images of Christ as Christ is the image of God were by Huss his preaching and suffering converted to the truth in defiance of all Anchristian opposition who endeavored to deleate and expunge all imâ—ressions of Truth in them This most illustrious Lamp of Gospel Light Which in Bâ—hemia first shon forth most bright By this renowned Martyres industrie Heavenly herâ—ick Huss yet furiously Affronted was by Papall enemies But in the midst of this their rage did rise Among themselves a mighty Schisme and rent Three Anti-Popes at Once by which event Renowned Huss did great advantage gain The Gospels Light to propagate maintain But at the last that Schisme being sew'd-up Againe they fill their wraths and rages Cup And gave it Huss to drink who valiantly Drank-up the same to deaths extremity And though they Painted-Devils placâ—d on his head Yet he their rage and scorn did nothing dread Thus faithlesse Rome breaking her promise given In firey-Chariot sent his Soul to Heaven HIERONYMVS PRAGENSIS The life and Death of Jerom of Prague TRavellours Bydalph Morrison sandye report that the place wherein the Body of Absolon was buried is still extant at Ieruselem and that it is a solenme custome of Pilgrimes passing by it to cast a stone on the place the like in expression of their detestation of his unnaturall Rebellion against his owne father But a well disposed man can hardly goe by the memory or mention of Hierom of Prague without doing his greatfull homage thereunto in bestowing upon him some passage in his praise and Commendation Amongst others therefore who have raised the Heape of this good mans Monuiment we will cast in the Contribution of our Stone also though but a rough and unpolished one to advance the heigth of this History 2 This Ierome of Prague was by his Countrey a Bohemian though we find not the Allowing him 45â— years old at his Deaâ—h he was borne 1372. principall date and place of his Birth nor the Condition of his parents We account it more modisty to confesse our ignorance hereof then to wrong the Reader by obtruding on this Beliefe our roving Conjectures for certaine Truths But Bohemia though she was happy to enjoy him was not so covetous to ingrosse him but that for his profit and her owne honour She lent him to other parts of Europe there to have his Education He travelled into France and at Paris proceeded Master of Arts and in the Vniversity of Collen and Hidlebury had the same degree confirmed unto him He was as exact in observeing as happy in remembering the most note worthy passages which his judicious Eye met with in forraine Parts 3 But there is a secret Loadstone in every mans native Soyle effectually attracting them home againe to their Country their Center This skilfull merchant for Learning having made a long voyage to the most principall Parts and Staple places of Literature and by that his adventure much inriched himselfe hath a mind to returne home to his Haven and safely arived at Prague in Bohemia He needed no other harbenger â—o send before to provide him welcome then the fame of his owne reputation being so well known in that place that the City passeth for his Sir-name and the commonly stiled Hierom of Prague For here he had if not his Birth his first breeding here he made so many pious Sermons here he held so many famous disputations In so much as it is questionable whether Ierom be more honoured w th the Addition of Prague or Prague more renowned with the name of Ierom. For sooner shall the river MVLTAW cease with her silver streames to water and divide that famous City then the memory of Ierom be forgotten 4 Hitherto Ierom was but a wilde stocke and ungrafted going on with the multitude in Erronious wayes having drunke as deepe as the rest of Romes bewitched Cupp till his conversion hapned on this Occasion The Bohemians which brought their lady Anne over into England to be married to our King Richard the second brought back the books of Iohn Wicklief home with them into their Countrey Ierom of Prague lighting on one of them by perusing it perceived the abominable Supersticions then used in the Church and began by degrees first in his judgement to dislike them afterwards in his Practice to disuse them and lastly in his Preaching to Confute them Thus Contemptible beginnings being blessed by divine Providence proversi parents of most considerable effects 5 But no sooner had Ierom publikely opposed the doctrine of Purgatory and prayers for the dead but all the orders of Fryers like a nest of Hornets with there venomous stings were busie about him We read of Elephants that though their whole Body be by reason of the hardnesse of their Skinne of proofe against the sword yet they have a tender and soft place under their Belly wherein they are easily wounded as appeares by the example of Eleazer in the 1. Maccabes 6.46 Maccabes who taking advantage thereof killed one of them in fight But O how tender are the Monkes Bellies those Lazy Lubbers could not abide to be taught in point of Ease and profit
they are suddenly Sensible with Sorrow if any goe about to abate of their dainty dyet and therefore were bemadded with fury to heare Purgatory called into question the pretended fire whereof did really heat their kitchin But Ierom having Scripture and truth on his side like a valliant Champion asserted his opinions in defence of Opposition having got the Society of Iohn Huss to assist him 6 Two Pillars there were in Solomons 1 Kings 7.15 Temple two Olive-trees dropping oyle into the Candlâ—sticke in Zacâ—â— 4.12 Zacharyes vision Our Saviour sent his Seventy Disciples to Preach two by two And two Witnessâ—s Prophesied in Sackcloath till â—hey were slaâ—ne 1 â—â—ke 9.1 So here God had a Paire of his Preachers who by their mutuall Company abated the tediousnesse of Solitarinesse and by their invited strength twisted together were thereby more effectually enabled against their Adversaries One Soule might seeme to animate them both and as they were lovely in their Lives so in their deaths they were not long devided 7 Now a generall Counsâ—ll was called at Constance which awakened the Christian world with the expectation of the Successe thereof Iohn Huss out of his owne Accord having first obtained full and free licence to come thither and returne thence with safety repaired to the Counsell and there in Confidence of God and a good Cause proffered to defend the doctrine of Wicklief to be sound and true both by Scripture and reason His very name Huss which in the Bohemian Tongue Signifieth a Goose was a plesaâ—t instrument ready strung and tun'd for the wanton fingers of his Enemies to make mirth and musicke upon it and every dull wit was sharp enough to use a jeere made to his hand But let them breake Iests on his name whilest he breake their Superstitions in Earnest and as once the Geese kept the Roman Capitall from their Enemies so this Goose kept the Capital of Truth from the Romans Though Naball was his name yet foâ—â—y was not with him being of a Solid judgement subtill wit and discreet deportment in his Conversation 8 But Huss could in no manner obtaine free Audience yea contrary to his AssuraÌ„ce formerly granted had his person restrained Ierom of Prague hearing thereof would not stay at home when one hand is bound will not the other endeavour the loosing thereof but hasteneth to Constance either to produce the freedome or partake of the Fetters of his Christian Brothers Thus when one Arrow is shot and in hazâ—rd to be lost a second is sent after it and either hiâ— fellow is found or both lost together and happy it had beene for the Church if she had had her Quiveâ— full of such Arrowes Aprill 4. 1415. Ierome comming to the Counsell makes meanes to be heard and puts up the heads of some positions profering publiquely to defend them moving withall that he might have leave to come and goe with Safety confirmed unto him under the Faith of the Counsell 9 This by no meanes could be obtained Liberty they would freely give him to come but not to depart and on the same tearms the Woolfe will grant free Conduct to the Lambe to come to hiâ— den but vestigiâ— Nulla retrorsum Ierom hereupon finding justice obstructed secretly departed the City and in his returne home was taken and brought backe to the Counsell His Adversaries much insult on his flight as one evidence of his guilt whereas if matterâ— be well weighed seeing he could not obtaine Licence Safely to stay Christ gave him a warrant lawfully to deâ—part in those wordâ— not onely Permissive Directive but Injunctive when you are persecuted in one City flee to another 10 Then was he brought with a long Chaine about him like Saint Paul before King Agrippa into the Counsell his fetters on set purpose being shaken by those that led him to make the more noise to render him more ridiculous Whereas indeed the sound of such Shackles made more melodious musicke in the eareâ— of the God of Heaven then all the loud chanting unintelligible affected singing in their Superstitious Quiâ—es They baited him with railing and opprobriaus termes but what is most remarkeable none solidly opposed him concerning the opinions of Wicklief whereof he was accused but charged him with youthfull extravagancies rather importing a Luxury of wit then amounting to any dangerous Opinon But principally the Master of the University of Hidelburoh objected against him that long since when a Sâ—udent there he had câ—used a shield or Eschuchion to be painted in representation of the Persons in Trinity comparing them therein to Water Snow and Ice 11 Ierom denied not the fact but defended the same Seeing God had stamped in naturall matters some countenanceâ— of supernaturall misteries Thus the coeternity of the three Persons besides the aforesaid Instance are Shadowed ouâ— in the Sunne and in light that proceedeth from it in a beam that arisâ—th from â—â—th And seeing that Friars fancies most surfeit with such devices and that more dangerous pictures neerer confining on Blasphemy were commonly presented and priviledged by them they of all other were most unfit to cast the first stone at him for such innocent and harmlesse Portraitures which he had depicted Thus they vexed him with triviall objections about unconcerning matters but as for the maine businesse of Heresie they presumed him to be guilty thereof and he was never brought to a faire and legall disputation concerning the same 12 From the Counsell he was carried home to the Prison and there for many dayes kept with bread and water so that had the proudest Anchorite pretending to the highest abstinence beene Commoner with him it would have tired his swiftest Devotion to keepe pace with him much other hard usage he felt for the space of a twelve moneth wherein his feet were hurt in the Stocks the Irons entered intâ— his Soule So that long durance short dyet hard lodging love of Life hope of Libertie feare of Torture wantig friends to advise him made such impressions upon him that at last he was not onely contented to abjure all Wickliefes opinions for false but also to allow the murder of his deare brother Huss to be a lawfull and laudible Act of exemplary Justice 13 Here let none Tyrannically trample on the prostrate crediâ— of a penitent sinner Consider that he did not surrendeâ— the â—astle of his integrity at the first summons but kept it a full yeer in many a furious assault till the Constant battery of Importunity made at last an unhappy breach in his Soule O there is more required to make a man valiant then onely to call an other Coward Had we beene in Ieromes Case what we ought to have done we know but what we should have done God knowes And may we here remember the Blessing which Iacob bequeathed as a legacie to one of his Sonnes Gen. 49.19 Gad a Troope shall overcome him but he shall overcome at the last Let none looke to long
most worthily succeed And as two Twins for their heroick Spirit The one the others honour may inherit For by John Huss Jerom was blestly ayded Where by the Romish rout he was invaded And Jerom hearing Huss was wrong'd by Rome To vindicate his quarrell did presume But in the tryall found his heeles tript up Fearfull by Romish rage to taste his Cup Yet at the last that tempting blast ore blown His doubled and redoubled Zeal was shown Stoutly recanting his forc'd recantation To th' Death he hated Romes abomination Which did their Romish furie so enflame That torturing him they Tygers fierce became His head like Huss with painted Divels arrayd His Soule to Heaven outragious flames convayd MARTINVS LVTHERVS The Life and Death of Martin Luther MArtin Luther was born at Isleben Ann. Dom. 1483. November 10. at 9. a clock at night on Saint Martins day and was calâ—'d Martin His parents brought him up in knowledge and feare of God according to the capacitie of his tender yeeres and taught him to read at home and accustomed him to vertuous demeanour The father of George Aemilius as Luther often hath related first put him to Schoole where though the trueth was much darkned by clouds of Popery yet God preserved still the heads of Catechisme the Elements of the Cistoian Grammer some Psalmes and formes of prayer At fourteene yeeres of age he with Iohn Reineck who proved a man of especiall vertue and authority in those parts were sent to Magdeburg thence by his Parents he was removed to Isenak where was a Schoole of great fame There he prefected his Grammer learning and being of a very quick wit and by nature fitted for eloquence he soone surpassed his School fellowes in copiousnesse of speech and matter and excelled in expression of his minde both in profe and verse He went to Erford Anno 1501. Where he fell upon the crabbed and thorny Logick of that age which he soone attained as one who by the sagacitie of his wit was better able to dive into causes and other places of Arguments then others Here out of a desire of better learning he read over Cicero Livy Virgil and other monuments of ancient latine Authors When at Erphord he was graced with the degree of Master of Aarts at twinty yeeres of age he read as Professor Aristotes Phisicks Ethicks and other parts of Philosophy Afterward his kindred seeing it fit that so worthy indowments of wit and eloquence should be cherishsd for the publque good by their advise he betooke himselfe to the study of the Law But not long after when he was 21. yeeres old of a sudden besides the purpose of his parents and kindered upon an affright from his faithfull mates violent death he betooke himselfe to the Augustine Monks Colledge in Erphord But before he entred the Monastry he entertained his fellow studients with a cheerefull banquet and thereupon sent them letters of valedictory and sending to his parents the Ring gown of his degree of Master of Arts unfolded to them the reason of the change of his course of life It much grieved his parents that so excillent parts should be spent in a life little differing from death But for a moneths space no man could be admitted to speake with him running over the Bookes thereof in order he met with a copie of the Lanine Bible which he never saw before there with admiration he observed that there were moe Evangelicall and Apostolicall Texts then what were read to the people in Churches In the Old Testamenâ— with great â—ttention he read the story of Samuel and Anna hiâ— mother and began to wish that he was the owner of the like book which not long after he obtained Hereupon he spent his time on the Propheticall and Apostolicall writings the fountaines of all heavenly doctrine seeking thence to enforme his minde with Gods will and to nourish in himselfe the feare of God and true faith in Christ from true and undoubted grounds Some sicknesse and feare whet him on to attempt these studyes more earnestly It is said that in this Colledge Luther in his younger years fell into a most violent disease in so much that there was no hope of life and that an ancient Preast came to him and with these words comforted him Sir Be of good courage for your disease is not mortall God will raise you up â—o be a man who shall afford comfort to many other He was often cheered up by conference with the ancient Priest to whom he revealed his feares and scruples of minde Then he began to read Augustinâ— Works where both in his Comment on the Psalmes and in the book Of the Spirit and letter he found many evident places which confirmed this doctrin concerning faith the comfort which was before kindled in his breast Yet did he not utterly cast of the reading of Gabriel and Camaracensis writers on the Sentences but was able to recite them by heart in a manner He spent much time in often reading Occam and esteemed him for acutenesse of wit before Thomas Acquinas and Scotâ—s also he studiously perused Gerson But chiefly he read often Austines Workes and kept them well in memory This earnest prosecution of his studyes he began at Erphord and spent there five years in the Colledge In the year 1507. he put on the priests hood The first Masse which he celebrated was May 2. Domini Cantate Then was he 24. years old In this course he continued 15. years to the year of our Lord 1527. At that time Iohn Staupicius who endeavoured to promote the University of Wittenberg lately begun desired that the study of Theology should there flourish and well knew the wit and learning of Luther and removed him to Wittenberg An. 1508. when he was 26. years old Here in regard of his daily exercises in the Schools his Sermons the eminency of his good parts did more and more shew themselves And among other learned men who attentively heard him Martinus Mellurstad commonly cal'd Lux mundi the light of the world often said of Luther that there was in him so Noble a straine of wit that he did verily presage that he would change the vulger course of Studyes which at that time was usuall in Schooles and prevailed At Wittenberg Luther first explained Aristotles Logick and Physicks yet intermitted not his study of Divinity Three years after that is Anno 1510. he was sent into Italy and to Rome in the behalfe of his Covent for the deciding of some controversies among the Monkes There he saw the Pope and the Popes palace and the manners of the Roman Clergy Concerning which he saith I was not long at Rome There I said and heard others say Masse but in that manner that so often as I call them to minde I detest them For at the tabe I heard among other matters some Curtisans laugh and boast and some concerning the bread and wine on the Altar to say Bread thou art and
truely blest For which rare Doctor let both high and low Blesse God that they so clear Christs truth doe know And pray the Lord that these his Gospels rayes May to the World shine-forth for datelesse dayes Philip Melancthon Dead is grave Luther worthy all due praise Who set forth Christ in Faiths illustrious rayes His Death the Church laments with sighs sincere Who was her Pastour nay her Patron deare Our Israels Chariots and Horsemen rare Is dead with me let All sad Sables weare Let them their griefe in groaning verses sing For such sad Knells such Orphans best may ring Theodore Beza Rome tam'd the World the Pope tam'd Rome so great Rome rul'd by power the Pope by deep Deceit But how morâ— large than theirs was Luthers Fame Who with One Pen both Pope and Rome doth tame Goe fictious Greece goe tell Alcides then His Club is nothing to great Luthers Pen. John Major By Luthers labours Leo the tenth is slaine Not Hercles Club but Luthers Pen's his bane Joachim a Beuft When Luther dy'd then with him dy'd most sure A Crown and credit of Religion pure His Soul soar'd up to heaven on Concords day Which tended Luther thither on his way Deare Christ since Discord followed with Coats rent Give to thy Spouse Elijahs ornament Upon his Tomb-stone the University of Wittenberg as to her beloved father engraved MARTINI LVTHERIS THEOLOGIAE D. CORPVS H. L. S. E. QVI ANNO CHRISTI M. Dâ—XLVI.XII CAL. MARTII EISLEBII IN PATRIAS M. O. C. V. AN. LXIII M.III.D.X Luthers writing were published at Wittenberg and Iene in severall Towns both in Latine and German tongue Part of them were expositions of Scriptures part doctrinall part polemicall Of these this was his own judgement Aâ—ove all I beseech the godly Reader and I beseech him for our Lord Iesus Christs sake that he would read my writings judiciously and with much piâ—ying my case In Wedlock he lived chastly and godly above twenty yeers and when he dyed left three sons and Catharin de Bora a widdow who lived after his death seven years To her it was a great griefe that her husband died in a place far from her so that she could not be with him and performe the last conjugall offices to him in his sicknesse In the time of the war which presently followed she wandred up and down with her orphants and in banishment was exposed to many difficulties and dangers And besides the miseries of widowhood which are full many the ingratitude of many did much afflict her for where she hoped for kindenesse in regard of her husbands worthy and noble deserts of Gods Church often she was put of with great indignity When afterward her house at Wittenberg in time of pestilence was infected she for her childrens safety as became a godly mother betook her selfe to Torg where was also an University But in the way when the horses affrighted ran out and seemed to indanger the waggon she amazed not so much for her owne as her childrens preservation lept out of the Waggon whereby poore wretch she grievously bruised her body in the fall and being cast into a poole of cold water caught thereby a disease of which she lay sick three months in banishment and pining away at length dyed quietly in the year 1552. Welfare those gentle Quilâ— whose ere they be Whose meritorioâ—s labours shall set free The Urne imprisoned Dust of that renown'd Thrice famous Luther Let his head be crown'd With sacred Immortality and rais'd Much rather to be wondred at then prais'd Let Bâ—bes unborn like fruitfull plants bring forth To after dayes new Monumeâ—ts of his worth And time out lasting Name that Babels Whore And all his bald-paâ—e panders may ev'n rore For very anguish and then gnaw and bite Their tongues for malice and their nailes for spite Whilst men made perfect in his well know story May all turne Patrâ—os and protect his Glory ERASMVS ROTERDAMVS The life and Death of Desiderius Erasmuâ— HIs Sirnamâ— implyes the place of his birth Roterdam is a City of Holland Holland the seat of the ancient Batavi but now illustrious by the production of one pen then by all her former harvests of pykes Seaven Citâ—es no coâ—temptible portion of witty and work-like Greece accouâ—ted the Nativitie of Homer so great an access to their other glories that they seriously contested about it Although Homer because Antiquity will have it so be greater then Erasmus yet litle Roterdam hath more to boast of in him then great Athens Smyrna Rhodes Colophon Chios Salamis or Argos in the other For it is certaine Erasmus was born at Roterdam but pitch upon what City of those seven you please it is six to one whether Homer was born there or not But what talke we of Roterdam Rhenamus sticks not to impute his Nativity to the fortune of Emperors and felicity of the whole German Empire within the limits whereof he was born upon the vigil or Eve of Simon and Iude under Frederick the third But in what yeer of our Lord or that Emporors raigne is not remembred this is certaine in the yeer of grace 1519. he was either 50. or 52. his mothers name was Margaret daughter to one Peter a physitian of Zavenberg his father Gerard. These accompanied together secretly but not without promise of marriage untill the young woman proved with childe Gerards father was named Helias his wife Catherine each of them lived till past 95. They had ten Sonnes without any daughters all married except Gerard who was the youngest save one All of them much resented this Clandestine combination and commixture betwixt Gerard and Margaret wherefore to prevent their marriage to gaine his portion to themselves and yet not loose a brother able in time to feast them at his owne cost they resolve out of ten to give Gerard as the Tieth unto God that is to dedicate him to the Church whereby perceiving himselfe excluded from marriage and not yet resolved to enter into holy Orders he fled to Rome By the way he wrot back to his friends the reason of his journey he intimated by the impresse of his seal which had one hand infolded in another In the meane time Margaret was brought to bed and the child the subject of this discourse cheerfully received and carefully nourished by his grandâ—mother Gerard after his arrivall at Rome maintained himselfe by his Pen for he wrote an exellent hand and Printing was not then found out or but in the infancy In processe of time the Copying out of learned bookes begate in him a love to learning it selfe so that besides his knowledge in the Tongues both Greek and Latin he became a considerable proficient in the Lawes which he might the more easily doe Rome then abounding with many learned and able Schollers and he himselfe having the happinesse to be an Hearer of Guarinus His father and brethren having certaine intilligence both of his being and well being at Rome fraudulently advertise
Grunnium Ad Fratres Germaniae inferioris Spongia adversus aspergines Hutteni Pantalabus sine adversus fâ—bricitantem Adversus Mendacium obtrectationem Antibarbarorum liber 1. Ad quosdam Gracculos Epistola Responsio ad Petri curâ—ii defensionem De Termino De vita phrasi Operibus Originis Besides these you have in the University Library at Oxford not set forth by Frobenius De novo Evangelio novisque Evangelistis judicium Auris Batanaâ— Vita Coleti Duo Diplomata Papae Adriani â—um responsionibus Detestatio Belli Precatio ad Iesum cum aliis Ejaculationibus De Hollandis Translated out of Greeke Classis 5. Ex S. Chrysostomo Adversus Iudaeos Homiliae 5. De Lazaro Divite Hom. 4. De Visâ—one Hom. 5. De Philogone Martyre Hom. 1. De Orando Deum Libri 2. De Davide et Saul lib. 3. Quam Presbyter esset designatus Hom. 1 In psalm Cantate Domino Quam Sarionius et Aureliamus acti essent in exilium Hom. 1. De fide Annae Hom. 2. Commentariorum in Acta Apost Hom. 4 Commentariorum in 2. dam ad Cor. Hom. 7. In Epistolam ad Galatas In Epistol ad Philipp Hom. 2. Ex S. Athanasio De Spiritu Sancto Epistolae 2. Contra Eusebium de Nicaena Sinod Ep. 2 Apologetici Duo adversus eos qui Calumniabanter quod in Persequutio nefugisset Ex S. Athanasio De Passione Domini Hom. 1. De hoc quod Scriptum est in Evangelio Vicum q. Contra vos est De Virginitate De peccato in Spiritum De Spiritu Sancto Ex S. Basilio Principium Esaiae De Spiritu Sancto lib. 1. De laudibus Iejunii lib. 2. Fragmentum Originis in Evang. S. Matth. Euripidis Hecuba Iphigenia Theodori Gazae Grammatices lib. 2. Declamatio alia quaedam ex Libanio Ex Plutarcho De discrimine Adulatoris Amici Quo pacto capi possit utilitas ex inimico De Tuenda bona valetudine Principi maxime Philosophandum An graviores sint Animi morbi quam Corporis De Cupiditate divitiarum An recte dictum sit ab Epicuro 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 De cohibenda iracundia De Curiositate De vitiosa verecundia Galeni exhortatio ad bonas literaâ— Isocrates de Regno administrando ad Nicodem Regem Tyrannus Zenophonius Luciani Saturnalia Cronosolon sive leges Saturnaliciae Epistolae Saturnales De Luctu Icoromenippus Toxaris Pseudomantis Somnium sive Gallus Timon Abdicatus Tyrannicida De mercede conductus Dialogus Cnemonis Damippi Dialogus Zenophantae Callidemi Dialogus Menippi Mercurii Dialogus Menippi Amphilochi Triphonie Dial. Charontis Menippi Dial. Cratetis ac Diogenis Dial. Mirei ac Thersitae Dial. Diogenis ac Mausoli Dial. simyli ac Polystrati Dial. Veneris ac Cupidinis Dial. Doridis ac Galateae Dial. Martis ac Mercurii Dial. Mercurii ac Maiae Dial. Diogenis ac Alexandri Dial. Menippi Chironis Dial. Menippi Cerberi Hercules Gallicus Eunuchus De Sacrificiis De Astrologia Lapithae sive convivium Fathers and other Authors set forth Corrected and Commented upon by Erasmus Classis 6. Augustini opera omnia 10. Tomis Hieronymi opera omnia 9. Tomis Cypriani opera omnia Irenaei opera Arnobius Ciceronis Officia De Amiciâ—ia De Senectute Paradoxa Quintus Curtius Suetoniâ—s Aelius Spartiaâ—us Iulius Capitolinus Aelius Lampridius Vulcâ—tius Galliâ—â—â—â—s Trebellius Pollio Flavius Vopiscus In Nucem Oâ—idii Commentarii In Catonem de Moribus Commentarii Notae in Plautum Notae in Terentium Notae in Quintilianum Notae in utrumque Senecam Two Bookes of his Antibarbarus was lost in England many of his most elaboâ—â—te Declamations at Rome two Books de Eucharistia he finished but supprest He left imperfect at his death a just Commentary upon S. Pauls Epistle to the Romans with many other Treatises since crept into other Mens Workes And it is to be noted that the Index Expurgatorius hath made more bold with no Mans Bookes then with his so that the first Impression are infinitely the best This famous and renowned Writer Erasmus Author and Inditer Of many learned Workes of Worth Which in his life time he set forth Was for his Learning and rare Parts His Wit his Wisedome skill in Arts And Languages and Uertues rare Wherein he justly might compare With his Contemporaries best In such esteeme and high request With all the Princes Potentates And learned Clerkes of all the States In Christendome which knew or saw him That they contended who should draw him To live with them Him to enjoy And with them his rare Parts t' employ Sending him many Gifts most great His presence with them to entreat But crown'd at last with honours Bayes In Basil He did end his dayes As full of yéeres as fragrant fame Leaving behinde an honoured Name HVLRICVS ZVINGLIVS The life and Death of Huldericus Zuinglius In the yeer of our Lord God one thousand four hundred eighty and seven Huldericus Zuinglius the Angel of the Church at Tigurum was borne and on the first of Ianuary in a little village which in the language of the Switzers is called Wild-house he was descended from pious vertuous and Religious Parents his Father also being a man advanced unto great dignity and authority amongst the Switzers in regard of his approved and well deserving parts He by daily observation without doubt to his great comfort seeing and perceiving more then an ordinary towardlinesse in his Sonne and beholding a future worth to discover it selfe even from his infancy and cradle not onely for the advancement of the glory of God but also for the benefit and profit of his native soyle and Countrey therein conferring a more charitable and friendly censure on him then that School-master on Thenistocles and causing others also to make triall of his ingenious disposition who beheld his naturall parts with astonishment and admiration he was very carefull to perfect nature by Art for that cause his age condescending thereunto he committed him unto the tuition of a certain School-master living not far from the place of his birth to be instructed trained up in the elements grounds of the Latin tongue with whom in short time by reason of the vigilancy and watchfulnesse of the one and the carefulnesse and industry of the other he attained not without great applease to that discretion and judgement that he esteemed those things which were read unto him as a subject fitter and more convenient for duller braines then for his quick and ready apprehension This proceeding therefore not answering his expectation he removed thence and being not yet fully ten yeeres old he was sent unto Basil a City in Germany situate upon the River of Rhine where he obtained for his Tutor Gregorius Biâ—â—zlius eminent in those daâ—es for the excellent endowments of learning and piety wherewith he was invested under whom this Huldericus attained unto that perfection both in civil behaviour and learning that he seemed alwaies to exceed out-strip go beyond and carry away the
as himselfe accused him before the Arch-bishop of Canterbury that preaching upon the triple Pasce ous meas he expounded the first by good example the Second by Sound Doctrine according to the common Interpretation and consent of the Doctors But that in the third which they expound Subsidio vitae he had dessented from them affirming that something else must be there understood and that the Aâ—postles being extreame poore could not be bound to feed their flocks with what they had not themselves Secondly that in another Sermon he had Preached against worshiping of jmages and thirdly that in the same Sermon he seem'd to tap those who Preached out of their note books which the Bishop took to himselfe for at that time he was aged eighty and forced by this help to piece out a Seniâ—e and decayed Memory The Archbishop received the accusation but answered it himselfe not suffering Colet to be so much as Summoned to his Consistory Their second attempt at Court succeeded little better the occasion this The King being resolâ—ed upon a warre with France Colet was invited to Preach at Court His Theame was Christs victory in handling whereof he preferred the most unjust peace before the justest warre for said he when the evill out of hatred or ambition fight against the evill and kill one another there they fight not under Christs but the Divels Banner shewing how difficult a thing it was to dye like a good Christian how few followed the Warres not tainted with envy or avarice and how almost inconsistent brotherly charity is with sheathing our sword in the Bowels of our brethern Concluding that it was better for Christians to imitate in their warfare their blessed Lord and Saviour then either Caesars or Alexanders At this Sermon amongst others were present the Bishop and two Friers Minorites whereof the one was the chiefe incendiary to the warre for which his ghostly counsell he was soone after rewarded with a Bishopricke the other an obstreperous stentorian whorson who in all his Sermons which in all were not many was sure to have a fling at Poets and poetry intending thereby to mump Colet who though he had skill in musicke yet never wrote a verse in his life But so ignorant was the vulgar of that frye in those dayes that they knew not â—he difference betwixt a peece of Tully and Virgil accounting all Poetry that was not meere barbarisme These three made agrievous complaint of him both to the King cheife Martialists as though Colet had done all â—his of purpose to weaken the hands of his Majesties Forces and discourage the Commons from so noble aâ—d necessary expedition and to speak the truth the King himselfe was somewhat startled at it But in the Carthusian gardens at Greenwitch he gave his Majesty such satisfaction that when most men gave him for lost he never parted from the King more loaded with promises both of protection and preferment who injoyned him onely in his next Sermon to cleere such misprissions and Scruples as the Common people and Souldiery had ignorantly collected from his former after w ch neither the Bishop nor his Bricot durst meddle no more with him But he lived not long to reape and injoy the fruits of this double victory for after the third relapse into a pestilentiall Fever a disease almost peculiar to the English he fell into a Dyssentery where of he died Some of his Physitians judged him far gone in an Hydropsie but upon his imbowelling there appeared no such thing to the Anatomists onely the extremities of his liver seemed as it were bearded with certaine rough and curled strings or pendants he lyeth buried in Saint Pauls upon the south side of the Quire a place designed by himselfe and almost in the eye of all who passe that way Behold his Embleme whose admired worth Few Pens can prove sufficient to set forth Unto the World and much lesse mine whose skill Can be deriu'd but from an Infant Quill He had a rare and well innobled heart Whose rich endeavours gave a life to Art He alwayes was ambitious to embrace Although t' were seated in the meanest place True vertue and he tooke delight to sée Youth well adorn'd with Ingenuitie Pauls Schoole can witnesse that his liberall Purse Was ever open to reward the Nurse That gave true Wisdome sucke therfore his Name Shall alwayes ride upon the wings of Fame IOHANES OECVLAMPADIVS The life and Death of John Oecolompadius IN the yeere of our Lord God 1482. this worthy instrument of advancing the truth of Christ Iohannes Oecolompadius was borne at Weinsperge a towne scituated in Germanie which yeere also was remarkable for the birth of Georgius Spalatinus who afterwards proved a faithfull and laborious Minister in the Church of God being sometimes Chaplaine unto the Duke of Saxonie His Parents were greatly esteemed amongst their neighbours for their vertuous and civill demeanour being endewed with a sufficient competency of outward necessaries both for the supporting of themselves and also for the education of such Children as it pleased the Lord to blesse them with and with a great number of these they were for a time beautified but it pleased God to take againe those which he had given during the life of these Parents leaving unto them onely this Oecolompadius unto whom he had granted a longer life for the good and benefit of his Church Both of them beholding the ingenious disposition of the childe and finding him to be capable of Learning they carefully sent him to be instructed and brought up in the rudiment of Learning his Father intending that after he had attained unto some knowledge and perfection to place him with a Merchant supposing that course of life to be the most fittest for him but his Mother being acquainted with this resolution of her Husbands and finding it not sutable to her owne will she never ceased from intreating him to desist from his intent untill such time as she obtained of him that he should continue longer in the Schooles unto which there appeared in him a naturall inclination the Lord beginning even in his Infancy to frame his minde unto that wherein he afterwards used him as his instrument for the converting of many unto himselfe Not long after his Father yeelding unto the request of his Mother who was as carefull of Oecolompadius as ever Monica was of Augustine he sent him unto Heilbronna which place was famous in Germanie for an exact training up of Youth in the knowledge of the Latine tongue where he having remained a few yeeres he removed him unto Heidelberge an Accademy eminent both for the Arts and tongues here he attained unto that perfection in Learning that at the age of 14. yeeres he proceeded with great approbation Bachiler of Arts. And unto his proceeding in the knowledge of humaine Learning he adjoyned a Religious and civill behaviour perswading himselfe eum qui proficiat in literis deficiat in moribus non proficere
sed deficere That he which went forward in Learning without having respect unto an orderly carriage of himselfe would prove to be retrograde in his motion Not long after he was graced with the title of Master of Arts in the same Academie after which dignity conferred by the advice of his Parents he went unto Bonnonia with an intent to apply himself unto the study of the Civil Law but because the alteration of the ayre proved adverse unto his former health after that he had made triall for the space of halfe a yeere and in that time finding no amendment he returned againe unto his Father with whom he remained until that he had recovered his former hâ—alth and â—hen he went unto Heidelberge againe where contrary to the will of his Father he left the study of thâ— Civill Law and gave himselfe wholly unto the study of Theologie being thereunto led and guided by the spirit of God In the performance of which Act he imitated the example of that burning Lampe of the Church Iohn Chrysostome the same act being also approved and embraced by Martin Luther Iohn Calvin Peter Martyr Theodore Beza Lambertus Danaeus and others Here he began to acquaint himselfe with such Schoolemen whose judgements in points of Controversie were most approved of in that Academie as Thomas Aquinas Gerson and others these he prosecuted with an indefatigable labour studying them day and night desiring the explanation of such distinctions which he could not understand c. This more then ordinary industry procured unto him a geâ—erall approbation together with a certaine demonstration of his future worth not onely in Heidelberge but also in the adjacent places insomuch that he was recommended unto that illustrious Prince Phillip Elector Palatine who sent for him and committed his yongest Sons unto his tuition bearing alwayes a reverend respect unto him for the excellency of those parts where with he saw he was endewed After that he had continued a season in this employment and perceiving that Courtly life to disagree with his naturall inclination he left it and returned againe as one that had been long captivated unto the study of Divinity Hiâ— Parentâ— perceiving that his minde was altogther set on that study and having no other child but onely him they made use of that meanes wherewith God had bleâ—sed them for the procuring of a Priesthood for him in the towne wherein he was borne unto which was also added the authority of Preaching unto this place he was called but finding himselfe after a fortnights performance to be unable to undergoe so laborious an office he desired leave to returne againe unto Heildelbirge for the furnishing of himselfe with a greater measure of knowledge that then he might returne from thence better fitted for the discharging of that sacred Function Having obtained leave he alters his resolution shapes his course towards Tubinga and from thence unto Stutgardia where Reachiling lived a man famous for his excellent knowledge in the tongues here he stayed for a short space during which time he received from him some light concerning the Greeke which being increased by daily exercise he so well profited himselfe that he did set forth a Greeke Grammer at his returne againe to Heidelbirge where he also learned the Hebrew of a Spanish Schoolâ—master whose evill nature was to envy that knowledge of that holy tongue in those that were his Schollers Finding himselfe somwhat better provided by the addition of the tongues he returnes unto his native place and cheerfully underwent his Pastorall office Preaching Christ so powerfully unto them that he was greatly admired of his Auditors neither was he onely excellent for doctrine but also for his life and conversation giving good example unto those unto whom he Preached being familiar alwayes with the better sort and especially with Wolfangus Capito with whom he was acquainted during his residence at Heidilbirge their friendship being here renewed it continued firme untill â—hey were seperated each from the other by death During his discharge of his Pastorall office in his native place Wolfangus Capito was called unto Basel to be their publick Lecturer which advancement caused him not to forgit his old friend Oecolampadius but rather moved him unto a â—onsideration how he might be a meanes of promoting him unto a more eminent place Pitying that so bâ—ight a lampe of piety should obscure it selfe by being shut up and conâ—ined unto such a narrow and unregarded angle of the countrey Wherefore he used all meanes to perswade the inhabitants of Basel unto whom he commended the worth of the man to invite him unto this City and to conferre a dignity on him correspondent unto his desert which was no sooner uttered but they condiscented thereunto and he was called unto the discharge of a Pastorall office in that City in the yeer of grace 1515. Where after that he had received that Function for the space of a yeer with great applause he was honoured in the same Academy with the title of Doctor about the same time that Erasmus Rotherodamus came to Basel to set forth his annotations on the New Testament for the perfecting whereof he used the assistance of this Oecolampadius in regard of the eminency of his parts as he himselfe freely confesseth Which worke being finished he left Basel and went unto Auspurge being called by the Comons of the Cathedrall Church to Preach in that place unto the people but herâ— he remained not long partly because he feared and had a distrust in himselfe that he was not fit for so eminent a place and partly by reason of that melancholy humor which was praedominate in him insomuch that he esteemed not the society of men but would remove himselfe from them into some solitary place but departed from them and entered into a Monastry lying without the City of Auspurge and consecrated unto Saint Bridget yet making his covenant so with the Monks that he would have liberty to study to beleeve what he would and to depart from them when he pleased for said he Etiamsi sexcentis juramentis me obstenixero nequaquam ea servare potero si quando utilis ministerio verbi sum futurus Although I should bind my selfe by the vertue of six hundred oaths I shall not be able by any meanes to keepe them if at any time I shall perceive that any profit will come unto the Church by my Ministery The Monkes perceiving his worth joyfully received him into their society bestowing all things liberally on him that he desired and also acquainted him with all their priviledges and in generall he found such content amongst them for the space of a few months that he intended to spend all the rest of his dayes in that lazy manner of life but it pleased God to call him from this manner of life and for that cause he stirred up his friends amongst theÌ„ more especially Capiâ—o who seriously perswaded earnestly exhorted him to give over that
Monasticall life upon which perswasion he intended to forsake the Monâ—stery and to betake himselfe againe unto his former profession and for a preparation thereunto being as yet in the Monastery he set forth a booke of confession wherein in many things he opposed the doctrine of the Church of Rome whereby he brought himselfe not onely into danger of his life but the Monks also were greatly afraid lest any inconvenience might happen unto them by reason of his actions and therefore they greatly laboured to free their Monastery of him during their plodding he sharpely reprehended them for their errors perswadâ—ng them to embrace and lay hold on the truth whereby they came to be more and more incensed against him and privately laboured with his friends to be more earnest with him in the leaving of the Monaâ—stery Having beâ—n resident in this place not fully two yeeres he departed and went unto Franciscus Sickingen a man nobly descended by whom he was entertained and iâ— the same houâ—e he laboured to put downe the Masse affiâ—ming it to be an Idolatrous worship but Franciscus being at that time greatly distressed with an unhappy warre he left him and went to Basel in the yeer of our Lord 1522. to publish such things as he had at vacant times collected Here he was againe advanced by the Senats unto a Pastorall office an annuall stipend designed unto him which he performed with great zeale and constancy to the glory of God and good of his Church here he bouldly discovered unto his Auditors those errors which by continuance had got firme footing in the Church he opened unto them the perfection and sufficientcy of the Merits of Christ he declared unto them the true nature of faith he revealed unto them the true doctrine of Charity insomuch that the authority of the Poâ—ish religion began to stagger in the mindes of many Whilst he was totally occupied about these things some there were who laboured to draw him againe to the Pseudo Catholicke religion but more especially Iohannas Cachlaeus who in the yeere 1524. wrote letterâ— unto him wherein he testified himselfe to be deeply afflicted with sorrow to heare that a man so excellently learned should lay aside his coule and adhaere unto such haereticall opinions and withall exhorted him to revoke his opinion and to returne againe into the Monastery promising him a dispensation from the Pope and the favour of the Prior which he had formerly enjoyed but these and such like things were slighted by Oecolampadius who bringing them unto the word of God found that they would not endure the triall In the performance of his Pastorall office an assistanâ— was appointed unt him by publicke authority and he began to settle a more excellent Reformation in the Church commanding the Sacrament of Baptisme to be administred in the mother tongue and the Sacrament of the Lords Supper to be received under both kinds he taught that the Masse was not a sacrifice for the living and the dead or for those who were tormented in their feigned Purgatory but that perfect satisfaction was obtained for all beleevers by the passion and Merits of Christ he disswaded them from sprinkling themselves with holy-water and from the consecration of Palmes and the like declaring unto them that they who did attribute vertue unto any such things did detract from the glory and power of God which doctrine of his tooke such deepe â—ooting in the hearts of his Auditors that it gave a period unto many superstitious actions amongst them The foundation of future reformation was no sooner laid but the old Dragon began to play his part and to discover his malicious â—nvy against such things as make for the glory of God either by hindâ—ing their proceedings or laying some foule aspersion on them for at that time broke forth that yet continued sacramentary dissention by meanes whereof that good worke begun in the Church was hindred Martin Luther at this time openly opposed and contradicting by writing the doctrine of Huldericus Zuinglius Pastor of the Church at Tigurum concerning the Euchiarist by reason whereof there was a great dissention betwixt the Churches of Helvetia and Saxony for the taking away of w ch Oecolampadius set forth a booke concerning the true understanding of these words Hoc est corpus meum and by many strong arguments he affirmed that a trope lay therein and yet his industry and labour therein tooke not away the contention betwixt the Churches This intended reformation was againe hindred by Eccius and his followers who taught 1 that the substantiall body and blood of Christ was in the Sacrament of the Altar 2 that they were truly offered up in the Masse both for the living and the dead 3 that the virgin Mary and the Saints were to be worshipped as intercessours 4 that the images of Iesus and the Saints were not to be abolished 5 that after this life there was a Purgatory These positions were vehemently opposed by Oecolampadius at the publicke dispuâ—ation held at Baden the event whereof was this some of the Helvetians subscribed unto Eccius some unto Oecolampadius and so there remained still a dissention amongst them which could by no meanes be taken away although attempted by many worthy instruments of Christ who have undergone many dangers for an effectuall performance of the same yet Oecolampadius wrought so with the Saints that liberty of conscience was granted unto the Citizens as touching religion In the yeer following there was a disputation held at Berne which continued for the space of twenty dayes wherein Oecolampadius labored so powerfully for a reformation that his acts there recorded give a sufficient testimony thereof unto the world In the yeer 1529. an assembly was appointed by the Lantgraw of Hassia at Marpurge touching a reformation in the Churches concerning which more in the life of Melancton After the painfull sustaining of so many labours at home and abroad he returned to Basil where he spent the residue of his life in Preaching reading writing setting forth of books visiting the sicke and having also a care of the adjacent Churches untill the yeer 1531. wherein it pleased God to visit him with sicknesse wherewith he was constrained to take his bed hourely exspecting death And forthwith sending for the Pastors of the same place he welcommed them with ashort pithy oration wherein he exhorted them to remaine constant and firme in the purity of the doctrine which they professed because it was conformable unto the word of God as for other things he willed them to be lesse carefull assuring them that the Al-sufficient God would care for them and that he would not be wanting unto his Church His Children standing before him he tooke them by their right hands and afterwards gently stroking their heads he advised them to love God who would be unto them in the place of a Father A little before his death one of his intimate friends comming unto him he asked him what newes he answered
none But said he I will till thee newes being demandâ—d what it was he answered Brevi ero apud Christum Dominum I shall in short time be with Christ my Lord. In the morning before he died he repeated the 51. Psalme of David at the end whereof he addedâ— Salva me Christi Iesu being never heard afterwards to utter any word those who were present betooke themselves unto their prayers wherein they continued untill he had surrendered his Spirit unto his Creator which was willingly and cheerefully performed by him on the first of Dâ—cember in the yeer of our Lord 1531. and in the 49. yeer of his age and was buried with great lamentation in the sâ—me City He died intestâ—te quia unde conderet pauper Christi servas non habebat He was of a meeke and quiet disposition in the undertaking of any businesse he was very circumspect and nothing indeed was more pleasing unto him then to spent his time in reading and commenting the workes which he left behind him are these which follow 1 Annotations on Genesis 2 On Iob. 3 Isaiah 4 Ieremiah 5. Ezekill 6 Daniel 7 Hosea 8 Amos. 9 Ionas 10. Micah Cap. 2. 11. On the three last Prophets 12. On the Plasmes 13 Matthew 14 Romans 15 Hebrewes 16 1 Epistle of Iohn 17 Of the genuine sense of these words Hoc en corpus meum 18â— An exhortation to the reading of Gods word 19 Of the dignity of the Eucarist 20 Of the joy of tâ—e resurrection 21 A speech to the Senaâ— of Basil. 22 A Catectisme 23 Annotations on Chrisostome 24 Enchyidion to the Greeke tongue 25â— Aâ—ainst Anabaptists 26 Annotations upon the Aâ—ts and Corinthians 27 Of Almsdeeds 28 Against Julian the Apostata 29 Of truâ— faith in Christ. 30 Of the praises of Cyprian 31 Of the life of the Mâ—ses 32 Against Vsury Reader behold the rare-adorned Face Of him whose very lookes import a grace He was a Man whose constancy to truth Ripen'd in age and blossom'd in his youth He was a rocke whose daring front disdain'd Papisticke Waves he still oppos'd and gain'd The upper hand though threatning danger lin'd Each word he spoke yet would he speake his minde T was not their proffer'd wealth could make him bold To sin in Want and then repent in Gold Religion was the Starre by which he steer'd His well run-course his heart was still endeer'd Two sollid Principlâ— he lov'd to court The truth Love was his Ship and heav'n his port The life and death of JOHN FRITH Who suffered Martyrdome 1533. IOhn Frith was borne at Weâ—trame in Kent in whom being a child nature had planted a marvelous love unto learning he had also a wonderful Promptnesse of wit a ready capacity to receive understand any thing neither was there any thing wanting in him equall unto that towardness of dispsiâ—ion whereby it came to passe that he was not onely a lover of learning but also became an exquifite learned man He first begun his sâ—udy at Cambridge where he profited much in all sorts of learning At last he fell into knowledge of and acquaintance with William Tindall through whose pious instructions that seed of the Gospel and sincere godlinesse was first instilled into his heart At that time Cardinall Wolsey prepared to build a sumptious Colledge in Oxford now called Christs colledge And sought out for such as did excell in knowledge and learning to be Fellowes in the same and amongst others Iohn Frith was appointed one Now these choice yong men there placed conferâ—ing together upon the abuses of Religion which at that time were crept into the Church were therefore accused of heresie and cast into prison where many of them through the filthy stink thereof dyed Afterwards Iohn Frith with the others remaining alive being dismissed out of prison went beyond the seas and too yeeres after returning he was taken for a Vagabond at Reading and set in the stocks where he remained untill he was almost pined with hunger at lenght he desired that the Schoolmaster of the towne might be brought unto him which was Leoward Coxe a learned man assoone as he came in the Latin tongue he bewailed his captivity unto him The Schoolmaster being overcome with his eloquence did not onely take pity and compassion upon him but also begin to love embrace him especially when he spake unto him in the Greeke tongue and rehersed by heart diverse Verses out of Homer whereupon the Scholemaster went with all speed unto the Magistrates and procured his enlargment Yet this his safety continued not long through the deadly hatred of Sir Thomas Moore at that time chancellor of England who persecuted him both by Sea and land promising great rewards to any man that could bring tidings of him Thus this good man being beset with troubles round about wandred up and downe from place to place untill at the length being betrayed by a seeming friend he was apprehended and sent unto the Tower of London where he had many disputes with Sir Thomas Moore and others touching the Sacrament of the body and blood of Christ. In which quarrell he withstood the violence of three most obstinate enemies with the Bishop of Rochester Moore and Rastall but he fighting with them all three at once did so refute and confound them that he converted Rastall to his part But when neither Scripture nor reason would prevaile against the firce and crulty of of these furious foes the twentieth day of Iune 1533. he was brought before the Bishops sitting in Pauls Church where they ministred certaine interrogatives unto him touching the Sacrament Purgatory to w ch he answered according to his former disputation and subscribed unto his answer these words with his owne hand I Frith thus doe thinke and as I thinke so have I said written taught and affirmed and in any Bookes published So that when as by no meanes he could be perswaded to recant he was condmned by the Bishop of London to be burned and so being delivered over unto the Mayor and Sheriffes of London the forth day of Iuly he was by them carryed into Smithfield to be burned when he was tyed to the stake he shewed much constancy and courage for when as the fire and faggots were put unto him he willingly embraced the same thereby declaring with what uprightnesse of minde he suffered those torments for Christs and the truths sake whereof that day he gave with his blood a perfect and firme testimony The winde drove away the flame from him unto his fellow Martyr Andrew Hewet who was burned with him which made his death the longer and his paines the greater But God assisted him with such strength and fortifyed his soule with such patience that he seemed rather to rejoyce for his fellow then to be carefull for himselfe as if he had felt no paine in that long torment There is one thing more very observable concerning this constant Martyr Iohn Frith that whereas the Bishop of Canterbury
sent two of his servants to fetch him to Croydon there to be examined they were so convinced â—pon the way with his learned pious discourses sweet and humble carriage that they contrived betwixt themselves how to let him escape and at the length one of them delivered himselfe unto him in this manner saying Master Frith the journey which I have taken in hand to bring you to Croydon as a Sheep to the slaughter so grieveth me that I am over-whelmed with care and sorrow neither regard I what hazard I undergoe so that I may deliver you out of the Lions mouth And then made knowne unto him how that they had plotted betwixt themselves to let him escape to whom Frith answered with a smiling countenance Doe you thinke that I am affraid to deliver my opinion unto the Bishops of England in a manifest truth the Gentleman replyed I marvell that you were so williug to flye the Realme before you were taken and now so unwilling to save your selfe Master Frith answered before I was attached I would fain have enjoyed my liberty for the benefit of the Church of God but now being taken by the higher power and by the providence of almighty God delivered into the hands of the Bishops to give testimony to that religion and doctrine which under paine of damnation I am bound to maintaine defend if I should now start aside and run-away I should run from my God and from the testimony of the Word and should be worthy of a thousand Hells therfore I beseech you to bring me where I was apponted to be brought or else I will goe thither all alone In all past ages and preceding dayes Heaven to his â—â—nour and eternall praise Hath never left his Church yet destitute Of faithfull Witnesses both to dispute And dyeâ— too for his spotlesse Uerity If cal'd therto with all Sencerity And admirale fortitude of minde In which rare Role of Partyers we do finde Famous John Frith an English man by nature Who from his youth adorn'd his education With promptitude of wit and other parts Wherby he flourisht both in Tongus and Arts. And to conclude let all rejoyce and say Religion was Friths prop and he her stay The Life Death of THOMAS BILNEY who suffered Martyrdome Anno Christi 1531. THomas Bilney an English-man by birth was brought up in the University of Cambridge from a childe where he profited so much in all the liberall Sciences that he in a short time commensed Bachelour of both Lawes But the holy Spirit of Christ by secret inspiraâ—ion endewing his heart with the knowledge of better things he lefe the study of mans lawes and set himselfe wholly a part for the study of Diviniâ—y accounting godlinesse his greatnest gaine And as his owne heart was enflamed with a sincere love to Christ and the Gospell of Christ so his great desire was to bring others to embrace the same and his labour was not in vaine for he converted many of his fellowes to the knowledge of the Gospel and amongst the rest Master Hugh Latimer who afterwards sealed to the truth of Christ with his blood Master Latimer being crosse-keeper at that time in Cambridge bringing it forth upon procession dayes At the last Bilney forsaking the University went up and downe Preaching the Gospâ—l where ever he came sharpely reproveing the pride and pompe of â—he Clergie and striveing to overthrow the authority of the Bishop of Rome Cardinall Wolsey at that time being in great authority and well knowing that the pride and hypocrisie of the Clergie could not long continue against the word of God if once the light of the Gospel should open the eyes of men he therefore caused Bilney to be apprehended and cast into prison And on the 25. day of November 1537. Master Bilney was brought before the said Cardinall and many other Bishops sitting at Westminster and there examined whether he had not taught unto the people the opinions of Luther or of any other condemned by the Church Bilney answered that wittingly he had not taught any thing contrary to the Catholique Church Hereupon he was delivered over to the Bishop of London to be further examined being brought before him he exhorted him to abjure and recant Bilney answered that he would stand to his conscience saying fiat justicia et judicium in nomine domini Then said the Bishop of London with the consent of the rest read part of the sentance against Master Bilney but respites the rest of it untill the morrow to see if he would recant then he was brought before them againe but still he refuseth to recant yet at the last through infirmity rather then by conviction he recanteth the seventh day of December 1527. After which abjuration made he went againe to Cambridge but he had such conflicts within himselfe upon the consideration of what he had done that he was overwhelmed with sorrow and was neere the point of utter dispaire so that his friends were afraid to let him be alone but continued with him day and night striving to administer some comfort unto him But he was in such an agonie for the space of a whole yeer after that he could receive no comfort yet at the length having bin throughly humbled for his sinne through the goodnesse of God he came unto some quiet in conscience being firmely resolved to spend his dearest blood in giving testimony to that truth which before he had renounced Having thus determined in his minde he tooke his leave of his friends in Trenityhall and said that he would goe to Ierusalem and so should see them no more alluding to Christs going up to Ierusalem before his passion And immediatly he departed into Norfolke and there Preached first privatley in houses and then openly in the fields bewailing his former subscription and owning that doctrine for truth which before he had abjured willing all men to be warned by him and never to trust to their fleshly friends in causes of religion whereupon he was apprehended and carryed to prison while he there remained Doctor Call and Doctor Stokes with many others were sent to dispute with him the forme of which by meanes of Bilneies doctrine was somewhat reclaimed After many tedious disputes seeing that by no meanes they could not withdraw Master Bilney for truth he was condemned to be burned The night before his execution many of his friends resorted unto him found him eating hartily with a quiet minde and cheerefull countinance where upon they said unto him that they were glad to see him thus to refresh himselfe being shortly to suffer such painefull torments He answered I imitate those who having a decaying house to dwell in hold iâ— up by props as long as may be Continuing with his friends in heavenly discourses one of them said that although the fire which he should suffer the next day would be of great heat unto his body yet it would be but for a moment but the spirit of God would
refresh and coole his soule with everlasting comfort At these words Master Bilney put his finger into the flame of the candle then burning before them and feeling the heat thereof said I finde by experience and have knowne it long by Philosophy that fire is naturally hot yet I am perswaded by Gods holy word and by the experience of some Saints of God therein recorded that in the flame we may feele no heat and I constantly beleeve that however the stubble of this my body shall be wasted by the fire yet my Soule and Spirit shal be purged thereby and although it may be somewhat painfull for a time yet joy unspakeâ—ble followeth there-upon As he was led forth to the place of execution one of his freinds spake unto him and desired him to be constant and to take his death as patiently as he could to whom Master Bilney answered with a quiet and milde countenance When the Marriner undertakes a voyage he is tossed on the billowes of the troubled Seas yet in the midst of all perils he heareth up his spirit with this consideration that ere long he should come unto his quiet Harbour so saith he I am now sayling upon the troubled Sea but ere long my Ship shall be in a quiet Harbour and I doubt not but through the grace of God I shall endure the Storme only I would entreat you to help me with your prayers As he went along the streets he gave much almes to the poore by the hands of one of his friends Being come to the Stake he there openly made a long confession of his faith in an exellent manner and gave many sweet exhortations to the people and then earnstly called upon God by prayer and at the end rehearsed the 143. Psalme Then turning to the Officers he asked them if they were ready whereupon the fire was kindled he holding up his hands and crying sometimes Jesus sometimes Credo but the winde did blow away the flame from him which made his paine the longer yet he patiently endured it continuing to call upon God untill he gave up the ghost Iust such another Saint-like singing Swan Was blessed Bilney born an English-man Brought up in Cambridge University Famous for Arts and Parts and Piety Where by powerfull preaching he converted Holy Hugh Latimâ—r then much perverted To Popery made many a proselyte Of 's fellow-Students by the Gospels light At last by Card'nall Wolsey prosecuted Who and his shavelings with him oft disputed They by their subtill treats and threats at length Tript up his heeles and foyld his humain strength And caus'd him to recant In which sad case This blessed Saint abote a twelve moneths space In bitter anguish and perplexity Of Soul in danger in despaire to dye At last again by Gods all-guarding grace Recovered comfort did despair quite chace And fill his Soul with such redoubled joy As all his former preciovs parts t' imploy In constant and courageous preaching down The odious errours of Romes tripple Crown For which our tongues may never cease t' expresse That Bilney's Crowned with true happinesse WILLIAM TINDALL The Life and Death of William Tindal WIlliam Tindal was borne about the borders of Wales and brought up from a child in the Universitie of Oxford where he grew up and encreased in the knowledge of the Tongues and the Liberall Arts but especially in the Scriptures whereunto his minde was singularly addicted insomuch as being in Magdalen-Hall he read privately to som Fellows Students som parts of Divinitie instructing them in the knowledge and truth of the Scriptures his life also was so blamelesse that he acquired much love and esteem thereby After he had profited exceedingly and taken his degrees there he removed to Cambridg and being well ripened in the knowledge of God's Word he went to live with one Master Welch in Glocestershire where he was Tutor to his children and many Abbats and Doctors resorting thither Master Tindal discoursing with them of Luther Erasmus c. shewing them plainly his â—udgement in Religion proving the same by the Word of God confuting their errors which caused them to bear a secret grudg in their hearts against him and afterwards they took occasion to rail and rage against him charging him with Heresie and accusing him to the Bishop and Chancellor whereupon the Chancellor appointed those Priests and Master Tindal also to appear before him and Master Tindal suspecting the matter as he went prayed heartily unto God to give him strength to stand fast to the truth when he came the Chancellor threatned him grievously reviling rating of him as though he had been a Dog accusing him of many things whereof no proof could be brought and so dismissed him for the present not long after Master Tindal happening into the company of one that was esteeâ—ed a learned Doctor in disputing with him he drave him to that issue that the Doctor burst out into these blasphemous words Wee had better be without God's Lawes then the Pope's Maste Tindal hearing this full of Godly zeal replied I defie the Pope and all his Lawes and if God spare me life ere many yeers I will cause a Boy that drives the plough to know more of the Scriptures then you do The rage of the Priests encreasing Master Tindal told Master Welch that he well perceived that he could stay there no longer with safetie and that his stay might be prejudicial to that Family also and therfore with his good leave he departed and went to London where he preached a while as he had done in Countrie before and then hearing a great commendation of Cuthbert Tonstal Bishop of London he endevored to get into his servicâ— but the Lord saw that it was not good for him and therfore he found little favour in the Bishop's â—ight remaining thus in London about the space of a yeer and being desirous for the good of his Countrie to translate the New Testament into English he found that there was no place for him to do it in England and therefore being assisted by Master Humphrie Munmoth and other good men he leftt the land and went into Germany and there set upon that work translating the New Testament Anno. Christi 1527. and then setting upon the Old First Bible translâ—ted he finished the five books of Moses with sundry most learned and godly Prologues perfixed before every one of them the like also he did upon the Nâ—w Testament besides divers other godly Treatises which he wrote there which being published and sent over into England became exceeding profitable to the whole English Nation At his first going over into Germany he went into Saxony and had much conference with Luther other learned men in those quarters and then returning into the Netherlands made his greatest abode at Anâ—werp when he had finished his translation of Deuteronomy minding to print it at Hamborouth he sailed thitherward but by the way upon the coast of Holland he suffered shipwrack
Great afflictions by which he lost all his bookes and writings and so was compelled to begin all againe to his great hinderance and doubling of his labours yet afterwards he went in another ship to Hamborough where he met Master Coverdal who assisted him in the translation of â—ive the books of Moses the sweating sicknesse being in the towne all the while which was Anno Christi 1529. and during their imploiment in that work they were entertained by a religious Widow Charity Mistresse Margaret Van Emerson when his English Testament came abroad Satans and the Popes instruments raged exceedingly some saying that there were a thousand Heresies in it others that it was impossible to translate the Scriptuâ—es into Euglish Popish lies others that it was not lawful for the Lay-people to have it in their owne language c. and at last the Bishops and Priests procured of King Henry the eight a Proclamation prohibiting the buying or reading of it yet not satisfied herewith they suborned one Henry Philips to go over to Antwerp to betraie him who when he came thither inâ—inuated himselfe into Master Tindal's company and pretended great friednship to him and haveing learned where his abode was he went to Bruxels and there prevailed so far that he brought with him the Emperors Atturney to Antwerp and pretending to visit Master Tindal he betraied him to two Catchpoles which presently carried him to the Atturny who after examination sent him to prison in the Castle of Filford 18. miles off and seized upon all his writings and what else he had at his lodging the English Merchants at Antwerp who loved Tindal very well did what they could to procure his release also letters were sent by the Lord Cromwell and others out of England in his behalf but Philips so bestirred himselfe that all their endeavours came to nothing and Tindal was at last brough to his answere and after much reasoning although he deserved not death yet they codemned him to die being brough forth to the place of execution whilest he was tying to the stake hee cryed with a servent and loud voice Lord open the King of Englands eies And so he was first strangled by the hangman and then burn't Anno Christi 1536. The power of his Doctrine and the sencerity of his life was such that during his imprisonment which was about a yeare and an halfe hee converted his keeper and his daughter and some others of his houshold and Philips that betraied him long enjoyed not the price of innocent blood but by God's just judgment he was devoured by lice Master Foxe in his History of Martyers sayes he might be called Englands Apostle The Workes which he writ besides the translation of the Scriptures are these that follow 1. A Christians obedience 2. The unrighteous Mammon 3. The practice of the Papists 4. Commentaries on the seventh Chapter of Saint Matthew 5. A discourse of the last will and testament of Tracij 6. An answer to Sir Thomas Mores Dialogues 7. The Doctrine of the Lords Supper against More 8. Of the Sacrament of the Altar 9. Of the Saâ—cramentall signes 10. A foote-path leading to the Scriptures 11. Two letters to John Frith All these are extant together with the workes of two Martyâ—s Barnes and Frith in English in Folio and thus after much labour and persecution this worthy member of Christ yeelded to the flaâ—es expecting a joyfull reresurrection Zeale crown'd his heartâ— and made him to out vie Papisticke stocks of Hell-bred Tyranny He feard them not but boldly would dispute Against their swelling Errours and confute Their Principles with a most dexterous art His tongue was never Traytor to his heart Truth was the hand that pointed to the way Where full content and rich Salvations lay T' was not a loathsome prison â—ould devorse His ready lipps from the profound discourse Of true Religion nothing could prevent His iust endeavours Time he thought mispent If not imploy'd to good Readerâ— admire His body flam'd to make his soule a fire The life and Death of URBANUS REGIUS who died Anno Christi 1541. URbanus Regius was borne in Arga Longa â—n the territories of Count Montfort of honest parents who principl'd him in the rudiments of Learning from school sent him to Friburg where he lived with Zasius an excellent Lawyer who loved him dearly for his diligence and industry from thence he went to Basil to study other Arts and from thence to Ingolstad where after a while he read privately to divers Noble-men's-sons whose parents desired him to furnish their children with books and all other necessaries for which they would take care to pay him againe quarterly but when he had run into debt for them they neglected to returne their money which caused him to thinke of departing and having an opportunity he listed himselfe a souldier under a Captaine that went against the Turkes leaving his books and oher furniture to be divided amongst the Creditors being now amongst the souldiers it happened that Iohn Eccius who was Govâ—rnor of the University coming forth to see the souldiers he espied Regius amongst them and enquired the cause of his so sudden a change he told them how those Noble-men had served him whereupon Eccius got him released from his Captain and by his authority procured the Debts to be paid by the parents of those youths which had been with him wherupon he returned to his studies againe wherein he growing famous for his wit and learning Maximilian the Emperor passing through Ingolstade made him his Laureat-Poet and Orator afterwards he was made Professor in that University Then he fell hard to the study of Divinity and a while after the controversie growing hot between Luther and Eccius Rhegius favoring Luther's doctrine because he would not offend Eccius to whom he was many wayes bound he left Ingolstade and went to Augusta and there at the importunity of the Magistrates and Citizens he undertooke the Government of the Church and being offended at the grosse Idolatry of the Papists he joyned with Luther and Preached against the same and having written to Zuinglius to know his judgement about the Sâ—crament and Originall Sin he received such satisfaction that he joyned in opinion with him about the same At that time the Anabaptists crept into Augusta and held private conventicles to the disturbance of the publicke peace for which the Magistrates imprisoned the chiefest of them and afterwards for their obstinacy punished them Râ—egius Preaching against Purgatory and Indulgences the malice and cruelty of the Papists prevailed at length to â—he driving of him out of that City buâ—â—fâ—eâ— a while by the earnest prayer of the Citizens he was called back 〈◊〉 to his former Charge where also he married a wife by whom he had thirteen children Eccius also came thither and sought by all meanes to turne him from the truth but in vain he sent also Faber and Cochlaeus with flatteries and lage promises who prevailed as
little as the others Anno Christi 1530. when the Diet was held at Augusta for quieting of the controversies about Religion the Duke of Brunswick coming thither by importunity prevailed with Regius to go to Luneburg in his Country to take care of the Church there in which journey at Gobuâ—g he met with Luther and spent a whole day in familiar confâ—rence with him about matters of great moment of which himselfe write's That he never had a more comfortable day in his life Erâ—nestus Duke of Brunswick loved him dearly and esteemed him as his father insomuch as when the City of Augusta sent to the Dâ—ke desiring him to returne Regius to them againe he answered that he would as soone part with his eyes as with him and presently after he made him Bishop and over-seer of all the Churches in his Country with an ample salary for the same afterwards going with his Prince to a meeting at Haganaw he fell sick by the way and within few dayes with much cheerfulnesse yeelded up his soule into the hands of God Anno Christi 1541 he often desired of God that he might dye a sudden and easie death wherein God answered his desires He was of an excellent wit holy of life and painfull in the worke of the Lord. Reader this serious Fathers well-spent dayes Were fill'd with love and love was fill'd with praise He was abjured by a Noble race Which made him onely debtor but not base Heav'n was his port to which he faild through tearsâ— Steer'd by his faith blowne by the winde of prayers Let his example teach us to invest Our hearts with wisdome and we shall be blest With him who now enjoyes the life of pleasure Whose comforts know no end whose joyes no measure He that shall choose true vertue for his guide May march on boldly and not feare a slide The Life and Death of CARALOSTADIUS Who died Anno Christi 1541. ANdreas Bodenstein Caralostadius was borne in France in a towne called Caralostadium by which he received hâ—s name he was brought up at Schoole there where afterwards he went to Rome and having spent sometime in the study of Divinity he went thence to Wittenberg where he commensed Doctor in Divinity and was a publicke Professor Anno Christi 1512. afterwards he became an earnest asâ—ertor of Lutheâ—'s doctrine and a defendor of it against Eccâ—us both by disputation and writing at the time of Luther's being in his Pathmos Caralostadius obtained of the Elector the abolishing of private Masse Auricular confession Images c. at Wittenberg which Luther being offended at returned presently thither and Peeached eagerly against that alteration whereupon Caralostadius wrote in justification of it which was the first beginning of greater differences betwixt them about the Sacrament whereupon he left Wittenberg 1524. and went to Orlamund being called to a Pastorall charge there but after a while he was called back to his place in Wittenberg yet before he went Luther being sent by the Elector of Iene and Orlamund in a Sermon where â—aralostadius was present he enveighed bitterly against the Anabaptists and said withall That the same spirit reignd in the Image-haters and Sacramentaries whereupon Caralostadius being much offended went to his lodging to confer with him about it afterwards Luâ—her coming to Orlamund went not to salute Caralostadius but in his Sermon quarrelled with their abolishing of Idols and shortly after he procured the Elector to banish Caralostadius whereof Caralostadius afterwards complained in a letter to his people in Wittenberg that unheard and unconvicted he was banished by Luther's procurement from thâ—nce he went to Basil where hâ— printed some bookâ— that he had written about the Lord's Supper for which the Magistrates being offended with the novelty of the Doctrine cast the Printers into prison and the Senate of Tigurine for bad thâ—ir people to read those books but Zuinglius in his Sermon exhorted them first to read aad then to passe judgement on them saying That Caralostadius knew the truth but had not well expressed it afterwards Caralostadiuâ— wandring up and downe in upper Germany when the sedition of the boorish Anabaptists brake out unto which they were stirred up by Muncer and for which many of them were brought to punishment Caralostadius also escaped very narrowly being let downe in a basket over the wallâ— of Rottenberg being in great streights he wrote to Luther and purged himselfe from having any hand in those uproars entreating him to print his book and undertake his defence which also Luther did desiring the Magistrates that he might be brought to his just triall before he waâ— condemned Caralostadius wrote againe to him a Letter wherein he said That for his opinion about the Sacrament he rather proposed it for disputation sake then that he positively affirmed any thing w ch many imputed to him for levity but Luther thereupon procured his return into Saxonie yet he finding little content there went to Tigurine and taught in that place till the death of Zuinglius and then he went to Basil where he taught ten yeers and An. 1541. he died there of the plague and was very honorably buried This grave Divine ceas'd not from taking paines More for the Churches good then his owne gaines Yet were his gaines as great as his desire He that obtaines true vertue need require No greater profit he that studies how To live here-after must not set his brow On Earths loe things the pleasure of the Earth Prov'd this grave Fathers sorrow not his mirth His thoughts were all divine he could not hide Within his Season'd breast the flames of pride He was an Image-hater and would not Let them be worshipp'd and his God forgot 'T was not a Prison could his heart apale He that has virtue needs no other baile The life and death of CAPITO Who died Anno Christi 1541. WOlfgangus Fabricius Capito was borne at Hagenaw in Alsatia his Father was of the Senatorian ranke who bred him in learning and sent him to Basil where he studied Physick and proceeded Doctor of it aftâ—r hiâ— Father's death he studied Divinity Anno Christi 1504 and under Zasias a great Lawyer he studied Law also and proceeded Doctor of â—t He was a great lovâ—r and admirer of godly Ministers at Heidleberg he grew into acquaintance with Oecolampadius and there was a neer tye of friendship betwixt them all their lives after with him also he studied Hebrew and became a Preacher first in Spire and thencâ— was câ—lled to Basil from thence he was sent for by the Elector Palatine who made him his Preacher and Counsellor and sent him of divers Embassies also by Charles the fifth he was made of the order of Knights from Mentz he followed Bucer to Argenâ—ine where he was called to a Pasâ—oral charge he was a very prudent and eloquent man a good Hebrician and studious of Peace concerning the Sacrament he said Mittendas esse contentiones cogitandum de usu ipsius coenae
fidem nostram pane vino Domini per memoriam carnis sanguinis illius pascendam Anno 1525. being called into his owne Country he Preached and administred the Lord's Supper to his owne Citizens and Baptized without the Popish Ceremonies he was present and disputed at Berne against the Popish Masse c. He was with others chosen by the Protestants to goe the to Diet at Ratisbone for the setling of Religion and returning home in a great and generall infection he died to the Plague An. Christi 1541 of his Age 63. Industrious Capito at first inclind Himselfe to cure the body next the minde Being endow'd with most excellent parts He did as t' were monopolize the Artâ— He lov'd Religion and was alwayes free T' extoll the worth of practis'd piety He honor'd peace his heart was fil'd with hope That he might live to contradict the Pope And so he did he labour'd to prevent The Ceremonâ—es of their Sacrament And to conclude he labour'd to confute Their babling Masse He 's blest without dispute The Life and Death of LEO JUDAE who died Anno Christi 1542. LEo Iudae was born Anno Christi 1482. brought up at Schoole and from thence sent to Basil where he joyned in study with Zuinglius was an hearer of Doctor Wittenbash by whom he was instructed in the knowledge of the Gospel â—here also he was made a Deacon and from thence he was called into Helvetia where he â—et himselfe to the study of the Orientall Tongues and to read the Fathers especially Hierom and Augustine as also he read diligently the books of Luther Eraâ—mus and Capito at length being called to a Pastorall charge at Tigure he opposed the Popish doctrine and Ceremonies both in the Pulpit and Presse thâ—re he continued eighteen yeeres and spent much of it in expounding the Old Testament out of the Hebrew wherein being growne very skilfull he set upon at the importunity of his breathren of the Ministry the translation of the Old Testament out of the Hebrew wherein also he was much holpen by the industry of other learned men but this worke proving very great he was so wasted with labor and old age that he died before he finished it Anno Christi 1542. and of his Age 60. leaving undone Iob the forty last Psalmes Proverbs Ecâ—lesiastes Canticles and the eight last Chapters of Ezekiel which he commended to Theodore Bibliander to finish who accordingly did it and he left all to Conradus Pellican to peruse and put to the Presse which he carefully performed Four dayes before his death sending for the Pastors and Professors of Tigure he made before them a Confession of his Faith concerning GOD the Scriptures the Person and Office of CHRIST concluding Huic Iesu Christo Domino liberatori meo c. To this my Lord and Saviour Iesus Christ my hope and my salvation I wholly offer up my soule and body I cast my selfe wholly upon his mercy and grace c. Heaven was the object where he fixt his eyes Truth was his Marke Religion was his Prise His studious heart was active to contrive How to keepe other pining Souls alive With heavenly Food he never lov'd to feed In secret Corners and let others need He never usâ—d to sweepe away the Crums From his poore Flock and feed their souls with Hums Like our new-babling Pastors which infuse Illiterate Words patch'd up with flattring News He would not blind them with the intising charms Of Falseties or bid them take up Armes Except for heaven within whose Tent he sings Anthems of Pleasure to the King of Kings The Life and Death of MYCONIUS who died Anno Christi 1546. Fâ—â—idericus Myconius was borne in Franconia of religious parents and bred up at Schoole till he was thirteen yeeres old and then he was sent to Annaeberg where he studied till he was twenty and then entred into a Monastery there without the knowledge of his parents the first night after his entrie he had a dream which proved propheticall In that place he read the Schoole-men and Augustine's Workes He read also at meal-time the Bible with Lyra's notes on it which he did seven yeeres together with so much exactnesse that he had it almost by heart but dispairing of attaining to learning he left his studieâ— and fell to Mechanicall Arts About which time Tecâ—liuâ— brought his Indulgences into Germany boasting of thâ— virtue of them and exhorting all as they loved their owne and their dead friends salvation that they should buy them c. Myconius had been taught by his fâ—ther the Lord's Prayer the Creed the Decalogue and to pray often and that the blood of Christ onely could cleanse uâ— from sin and that pardon of sin eternall life could not be bought with money c. Which caused him to be much tâ—oubled whether he should beleive his father or the Priests but understanding that there was a clause in the Indulgences that they should be given freely to the poore he went to Tecelius entreated him to give him one for he waâ— a poor sinner and one that needed a free remissions of sins and a participation of the merits of Christ Tecelius admired that he could speake Latine so well which few Priests could doâ— in those dayes aud therefore he advised with hiâ— Colleagues who perswaded him to give Myconius one but after much debate he returned him answer That the Pope wanted money without which he could not part with an Indulgence Myconius urged the aforenamed clause in the Indulgences whereupon Tecelius his Colleagues pressed againe that he might have one given him pleading his learning and ingenuity poverty c. And that it would be a dishonor both to God and the Pope to denie him one but still Tecelius refused whereupon some of them wispred Myconius in the eare to give a little money which he refused to doe and they fearing the event one of them profered to give him some to buy one with which he still refused saying That if he pleased he could sell a book to buy one but he desired one for Gods sake which if they denyed him he wished them to consider how they could answer it to God c. but prevailing nothing he went away rejoycing that there was yet a God in heaven to pardon sinners freely c. according to that promise As I live saith the Lord I desire not the death of a sinner c. Not long after he entred into Orders and read privately Luther's books which the other Friars tooke very haynously and threatned him for it From thence he was called to be a Preacher at Vinaria where at first he mixed some Popish errors with the truth but by the illumination of Gods Spirit and by his reading Luther he at last began to preach against Popery and to hold forth the truth clearly which spread so swiftly not onely through Saxonie but through all countries as if the Angels had been carryers of it Afterwards he was called
to Gotha to teach and govern the Thuringian Churches where he lived with his Collegues twenty yeeres in much peace and concord of which himselfe saith Cucurrimus certavimus laboravimus pugnavimus vicimus viximus semper convinctissime c. In the tumult of the Boores he tooke much pains to pacifie their mindes and to keepe them quiet Yea he so quieted with an Oration some that were pulling downe some Noble mens houses that they went away in peace that yeere also he married a wife by whom through Gods blessing he had a numerous posterity He accompanied the Elector of Saxonie in many of his journyes into the Low-Countries and other places where he preached the Gospel sincerely though sometimes to the hazard of his life About this time Henry the eighth King of England fell out with the Pope for not divorcing of him from his wife Katharine of Spain sister to Charles the fifth by reason of whose greatnesse the Pope durst not doe it whereupon the King of England sent over to the Germane Princes especially to the Duke of Saxonie to confederate against the Pope and to joyn with them in an agreement about Religion upon which occasion Myconius was sent over into England partly about matters of Religion but especially about a match between Henry the eighth and Anne of Cleve but coming thither he discovered the Kings hypocrisie about Religion not onely by the six Articles about that time established but also by his imprisoning of Latimer and cutting off the Lord Cromwell'â— head and burning of Master Barnes c. and by his seizing upon all the Abby-lands whereupon he left England and being come home he was called by Henry of Saxonie to visit and reforme the Churches of Misnia together with Luther Ionas Cruciger c. Which fell out upon this occasion George Duke of Saxonie lying on his death-bed sent to his brother Henry all his owne sons being dead before desiring him that succeeding him he should innovate nothing in Religion and withall promised him golden mountains by his Ambassadors if he would assent thereto to whom Henry answered This Embassie of yours is just like the Divels dealing with Christ when he promised him all the world if he would fall downe and worship him but for my owne part I am resolved not to depart from the Truth which God hath revealed unto me but before the returne of the Ambassadour Duke George was dead whereupon this Henry nothwithstanding all the oppositions of the Papists made this Reformation in the Churches which worke being finished Myconius visited all the Churches in Thuringia and with the help of Melancthon and some otheâ— he provided them Pastors and Schoolmasters and procured stipends to be setled upon them for their maintenance Anno Christi 1541. he fell into a Consumption whereof he wrote to Luther That he was sicke not to death but to life which interpretation of the text pleased Luther excellently well unto whom he wrote back I pray Christ our Lord our salvation our health c. that I may live to see thee and some others of our Colleagues to die and goe to heaven and to leave me here amongst the Divels alone I pray God that I may first lay down thiâ— drie exhausted and unprofitable tabernacle farewell and God forbid that I should heare of thy death whiâ—st I live Sed te superstitem faciat mihi Deus hâ—c peto volo fiat voluntas mea Amen quia haec voluntas gloriam nominis Dei crete non meam voluptatem nec copiam quaerit A while after Myconius recovered according to this prayer though his disease seemed to be desperate out-lived it six yeers even till after Luthers death whereupon Iustus Ionas speaking of Luther saith of him Iste vir potuit quod voluit That man could have of God what he pleased A little before Myconius his death he wrote an excellent Epistle to Ioan. Fredericke Elector of Saxonie wherein he praiseth God for raising up three successively in that Family viz. Fredericke Iohn and Iohn Fredericke to undertake the patronage of Luâ—her c. He was a man of singular piety of solid learning of a dextrous judgement of a burning zeal and of an admirable candor and gravity He died of a relapse into his former disease Anno Christi 1546. and of his Age 55. Myconius was a man that lov'd to pry Into the bosome of Divinity His heart was alwayes flexively inclind To what was good he had a golden minde That would not bend to drosse but still aspire To heaven and faith gave wings to his desire He was belov'd of all that lov'd Gods name The trumpet of his voyce would still proclaime The word of God to those that would indure To have their wounds be brought unto a cure By whose examples we may learne to thrive In grace His present worth is still alive The life and Death of John Diazius Who dyed Anno Christi 1546. IOhn Diazius was borne in Spaine brought up at Schoole afterwards he went to Paris to study the Arts where he continued thirteen yeers but it pleased God that whilest he read over the holy Scriptures and some of Luthers bookes and other Protestant Divines he began to see and abominate the errours of Popery and therefore to further himselfe in the knowledge and study of the Truth he went to Geneva where he spake with Calvin and was very dear unto him From thence he went to Argentine where Martin Bucer observed his learning piety and diligence in his studie obtained of the Senate that he should be joyned with him to goe to the Disputation at Ratisbâ—ne and when he came thither he went to Peter Malvinda a Spaniard the Popes Agent in Germanie who when he knew that he camâ— in the company with Bucer and the other Protestant Divines he was much aâ—tonished and admired how he was so much changed from that which he knew him to be at Paris and withall he fretted exceedingly that they had gotten a Spaniard amongst them presuming that they would triumph more in him then in many Germans whereupon he left no meanes untried to draw him backe againe to the Church of Rome sometimes making large proffers and promises to him other-sometimes threatning severe punishments and mixing both with earnest entreaties but when by no meanes he could prevaile to divert him from the Truth he sent for his brother Alphonsus Diazius one of the Popes Lawyers from Rome who hearing that his Brother was turned Protestant came speedily into Germanie bringing a notorious cut-throat with him resolving either to divert or destroy him when he came to Ratisbone Diazius was departed to Neoberg about the Printing of Bucers Booke which Alphonsus hearing of followed him thither where after long debating of matters of Religion between the two Brothers Alphonsus seeing the heart of his Brother Iohn to be so constantly planted â—n thâ— sure rocke of Gods Truth that neither Preferments could allure him nor threats terrifie him
both having beene used by the Popes Agent nor he by perswasion nor love could perswade him to returne to Popery he feigned himselfe friendly to take his leave of him and so deparâ—â—d â—ut shortly after he returned againe with this ruffianly murtherer and by the way they bought an Hatchet of a Carpinter and Alphonsus sending this man disguised with letters to his Brother he himselfe following after as Iohn Diazius was reading the letters this bloudy murtherer cleft his head with the Hatchet and taking Horse they both rode away Anno Christi 1546. and this inhumane Cain was highly commended by the Papists for it But the Lord would not suffer such an unnaturall villanie to goe unpunished for not long after he was so doggâ—d and haunted by the Furies of his own Conscience that being at Trent when the Council was held there he hanged himsâ—lf about the neck of his own Mule Diazius in his youthfull dayes had cloath'd His heart with Popery and after loath'd What he had done for when he was inspir'd By Heaven he searcht for truth and soon untyrâ—d Himselfe and having found the pathes of truth He hated what he acted in his youth Thus being turn'd from those wayes that lead To utter ruine Fame began to spread Her wings abroad and hover in the eare Of the distasted Pope who could not heare Goodnesse without impatience but strove To win him with reward of promis'd love But finding â—'was in vaine he chang'd his minde From Love to Murther and with spéed inclin'd Himselfe to mischiefe being voyd of grace Put out that light which shin'd so much in 's face The Life and Death of CRUCIGER Who died Anno Christi 1548. GAsper Cruciger was born at Lipsich in Misnia Anno 1504. of religious Parents who carefully brought him up in the knowledge of God and in learning He was melancholy by nature and of a retired disposition much in meditation and of few words being principled in the Latine he learned Greek and profited much therein and so went to the University of Wittenberg that having studyed Divinity there he might be more usefull to the Church he studyed also the Hebrew tongue and grew very exquisite therein from thence was called to govern the School at Magdeburg where he taught with much profit and applause till 1527. and then being called back to Wittenberg he preached and â—xpounded the Scriptures with so much dexterity that he was graced with the degree of a Doctor in that University he studyed and practised Physick also He was very helpfull to Luther in his Translation of the Bible He wrote so swiftly that he was chosen Scribe at the disputation at Worms and yet withall suggested to Melancthon many things for answer to Eccius his subtilties insomuch that Glanvell who supplyed the Enperors room said of him That the Lutherans had a Scribe that was more learned then all the Pontificians He alwayes opposed the Anabaptisticall errors and was very careful to preserve the Truch from corruptions he alwayes hated new and ambiguous expressions which often caused much troubles in the Church he often contemplated the foot-steps of God in Nature saying with Paul That God was so near unto us that he might be almost felt with our hands He studyed the Mathematicks in his later time and grew so skilfull therein that few excelled him he was excellent also in the Opticks but with excessive pains and incessant studyes night and day he contracted to himselfe a mortall disease whereby he wasted away and yet his intellectuals decayed not he lay sick for above three moneths all which time he gave forth cleer notable demonstrations of his Faith Patâ—ence and Piety he called up his two young daughters and caused them to repeate their prayers before him and then himselfe prayed with great fervency for himselfe the Church and those his Orphans concluding Invoco te quanquam languida imbecillâ— fide sed fide tamen credo promissioni tuae quam sanguine tuo resurrections obsignasti c. I call upon thee with a weak yet with a true Faith I beleele thy promises which thou hast sealed to mee with thy blood and resurrection c. In his sicknesse he intermitted not his studies for during the same he turned into Latine Luthers books concerning the last words of David he read the Psalms and other Autors his ordinary discourse with his friends was about the Principles of Religion the admirable government of the Church Immortality and our sweet Communion in heaven Upon the sixth of November there was a great Chasm or opening in the heavens and in some places fire fell to the earth and flew up into the ayre againe this Cruciger saw as he lay in his bed in the night and thereupon much bewayled the great commotions and dissipations in the Church which he foresaw by this Prodigie He spent the few dayes which remained in prayer and repentance and so quietly ended his dayes November 16. Anno Christi 1548. and of his Age 45. Considering the mutabilitie of all earthly things he used often to say Omnia praetereunt praeter amare Deum Besides God's love nothing is sure And that for evâ—r doth endure Grave Cruciger was in his life A hater of corroding strife His soule was â—â—l'd with Heaven and he Was alwayes constant alwayes free In his devotions all his dayes He spent to give his maker praise Religions stocke did still encrease Within his heart and crown'd his peace He was a wonder to all Nations For Piety and disputations The Anabaptists felt the force Of his patheticall discourse Truth alwayes shined in his brest All men speake truth that speake him blest PAVLVS FAGIVS The Life and Death of Pauluâ— Fagius IN the yeer of our Lord God 1504. Paulus Fagius alias Buchlin was borne in a Town situate in the Palatinate not farre from Bretta which in the Germain language is called Rhein-taberne his Father was called by the name of Peter Buchlin being chiefe Schoole-master of that Towne his Mother by the name of Margaretta Iager daughter unto Henricus Iazger of Heidelberge who was much beloved of Fredericke the Prince Elector Palatine by reason of his excellent knowledge in the art of War He was first acquainted with the grounds of Leaenrng in the same Towne and that through the carefulnesse and paines of his Father which indeed seemed pleasing unto him because of the sharpenesse of wit and quicknesse of apprehension which he saw in the childe and therefore for the better perfection of his naturall parts when he had reached unto the age of eleven yeares he sent him unto Heidelberge and committed him unto the tuition of Iohannes Brentius and Martinus Frechtus two learned men by whose meanes he was furnished with an excellent insight in humaine Learning When he had continued with these learned men for the space of seven yeers and being now eighteene yeers of age and longing for a greater perfection of learning he left Heidelberge and went unto
Bucer wee Ascribe the second we bequeath to thee Whose knowledge in the holy dialect A fame eternall will to thee erect In that thou first didst bid the world godnight Thou seem'st inferior to that burning light But being first with heavens glory cround Thou dost appeare a Saint more worthy found In other things both fitly did agree Both faithfull preachers of his veritie Both painfull Sowers of the heavenly graine Both blest with good successe it sprung againe Wherefore God blest you both with honor high And cloath'd you both with immortality O happy soules though heaven keepe you there Your fame shall ever be intombed here Your worthy praises all the earth shall know Divulged by our Muses here below He was of a tall stature somewhat blacke-visaged his countenance appeared outwardly severe extorting reverence but he was inwardly of an affable and courteous disposition loving meeke and lowly he was an excellent Orator a great Student as appeares by his Workes here inserted 1 A worke called Thysby 2 Apothegmes of the Fathers 3 Morall Sentences ef Ben Syra alphabetically digested 4 The translation of Tobias the Hebrew 5 Hebrew Prayers 6 A literall exposition of the Hebrew sayings on the foure first chapters of Genesis with a Chalde Paraphrase 7 Of the truth of Faith 8 Commentaries on certaine Psalmes by Kirachi 9 An Hebrew Preface to Elias Levila his Chalde Lexicon 10 Thargum 11 An Introduction to the Hebrew tongue Reader behold here stands before thine eye The perfect â—mbleme of true gravity Turne from his face then read and thou shalt finde The rare endeavours of a serious minde He was a man whose ever-active heart Was alwayes digging in the Mines of Art And like a Bée he labour'd every houre To sucke some Hony from each spreading Flowre T was not the face of poverty could fright His soule from goodnesse Heaven was his delight And earth his scorne he study'd how to give A life to Language and make Uertue live It is not unfit that he whose Workes affords So many Languages should want for words MARTINVS BVCERVS The Life and Death of MARTIN BUCER IN the yeer of our Lord 1491. Martinus Bucerus was born at Selestadt a towne in Germanie famous for many learned Schollars which it hath afforded unto the World in these latter times amongst which this Bucer deserveth not the meanest approbation if we shall but consider those excellent vertues wherewith he was endewed or his learned and laborious acts for the propagation of the truth of Christ. In his youth he was trained up in the knowledge of the liberall Arts and Sciences in his owne Countrey wherein he profited beyond expectation to the great credit of his Maâ—â—er and to the unspeakable comfort of his friends About the yeer of our Lord 1506. and about the fifteenth yeer of his age through the advice and perswasion of his friends he adjoyned himselfe unto the order of the Dominicans where he manifested and gave them so singular a glympse of his industry and towardnesse that the most judicious and best eye-sighted Fryers conceived him to be set apart for the performance of more â—hen ordinary Acts. Being now a Dâ—minican he greatly desired to take a view oâ— Heidelberge which was granted unto him by the Pryor here he earnestly gave himselfe to the study of Rhetoricke and Phylosophie and not to these Arts onely but also to Divinity but when he found by experience that the knowledge of the Tongues was so necessary unto the study therof that without them it could not by any meanes possible be attained to any perfection he forthwith bent all his forces for the gaining of the knowledge of the Greeke and Hebrew tongues About that time came forth the Workes of Erasmus Roterodamus in the reading whereof Bucer greatly delighted and was by them first instructed God opening his eyes in the grounds of Evangelicall truth and happening also on some of Luthers Workes newly published and comparing the Doctrine therein delivered and taught with the holy Scripturâ—s he fell into a suspâ—tion of the truth of the doctrine of the Church of Rome Bucer having now attained unto some perfection of learning and notice being taken of those excellent qualities wherewith he was adorned upon the commendation and approbation of Franciscus Sickingen he was entertained by Fredericke Prince Elector Palatine to be his Chaplaine and forsaking that profession which he had formerly taken he professed himselfe to be a Protestant and Preached the word both privatly and publickly as occasions were offered and given unto him being much strengthened and animated thereunto by hearinâ— the disputation of Luther at Heidelberge concerning Free-will whereby he became better satisfied in the point of justification And thiâ— waâ— the first acquaintance which he had with that burning light of the Church by whom it pleased God to worke an alteration in his heart and an earnest intent to beat downe the sinnes of the times to dispell the foggie mists of darkenesse and ignorance that the glorious light of Christs Gospel might the better appear For the Prince Elector having urgent occasions to goe into Belgiuno and taking him with him as his associate he sharpely reproved in his Sermons and Exercises the supersticious impieties of those places wherein he proceeded with that eagernesse of spirit that the Monkes and Fryers there living were much offended at his Doctrine as a thing prejudiciall to their lazie manner of life Wherefore to prevent his proceeding they intended secretly to take away his life an old practise of that hellish brood but the providence of God would not suffer this light to be thus extinguished for he having notice of the snares which were laid for him secretly fled away and went unto Franciscus Sickingem of whom he was kindely and lovingly entertained promising him safety untill that the times were better quieted as touching Religion with whom he remained untill such such time as Luther was called unto Wormes unto whom he went and having spâ—nt many dayes in conference with him he departed from him not without he embracing of his Doctrine with an intent to make publicke profession of the same for the glory of God untill he had finished that time which was alotted unto him here in earth and resolving to take his journey for Wittemberge he was stayed by the intreaty of the faithfull Pasâ—ors of the Church at Wissenburge where he continued Preaching for the space of halfe a yeere not without the great benefit of the Church untill that he with Henricus Mothererus were with great sorrow compelled to depart that place through the means of the Vicar of Spire which at that time was a great enemy and an opposer of the truth of Christ. Now although the Word of God had no good successe in this place yet it pleased God that it florished in Strasburge by the pains of Matthias Lellius and Casper Hedio faithfull labourers in the Lords Vineyard hither came Bucer in the yeere of our Lord 1523. and
Sweet was his life and death his well spent dayes Began in goodnesse and expir'd with praise The Life and Death of CASPER HEDIO who died Anno Christi 1552. CAsper Hedio was born at Etling in the Marquisat of Baden of honest Parents and educated in learning at Friburge where also he Commensed Master of Arts and from thence went to Basil where he studied Divinity and Commensed Doctor whence he was called to Preach in the chiefe Church at Mentz but some not liking such plain Preaching and the Monkes raising a persecution against him he went thence to Argentine Anno Christi 1523. where he was a great assistent to Capito and Bucer in reforming of Religion by the command of the Senate there also he married a wife Anno Christi 1533. and though the Papists raised a great persecution in that City yet he Preached â—oldly against Masses Indulgences Auricular Confession c. and wrote against them also Anno Christi 1543. when Herman Archbishop of Collen began a Reformation he sent for Bucer and Hedio to assist him therein whence after he was driven by Caesar and his Spaniards escaping through many difficulties and danger he returned to Argentine what time he could spare from his Ministeriall employment he spent in writing Commentaries and Histories Anno Chrisâ—i 1552. he sickened and died T' was not the rage of Papist could remove The heart of Hedio from the reall love Of true Divinity he still enclin'd Himselfe to Preach with a resolved mind Let his example teach us to repose Our trust in God in spight of threating Foes The Life and Death of GEORGE PRINCE of Aâ—halt whâ— died Anno Christi 1553. GEorg Prince of Anhalt was born An. Chr. 1507. his Father was Prince Ernest who was carefull to bring him up in the fear of God and for that end he placed him with George Forcheme who was eminent for training up of youth under whom he profited exceedingly both in humane literature and in principâ—ls of Divinity then he was set to the study of the Law wherein he profited very much also having attained to the age of twenty two yeeres he was chosen by Albert Elector of Menâ—z to be one of his Councell wherein he carried himselfe with high commendations in managing the greatest State-affairs But the Controversies about Religions waxing hot at this time and Luthers books coming abroad he fell to reading of them and suspecting his owne injudiciousnesse he would often pray with tears to God to encline his heart to the Truth saying Deal with thy servant according to thy mercy and instruct mee in thy righteousnesse He was frequent in reading the Scriptures Ecclesiasticall Histories Augustine Hierom and Lombard he studied also Greek and Hebrew and discoursed with learned men about the Controversies and after all upon mature deliberation he embraced the Reformed Riligion and reformed the Churches with the counsell of his brethren within his owne jurisdiction Anno Christi 1545. he was called to the Government of the Churches within the Diocesse of Mersburge where he was carefull to have the Truth Preached to the people he lived with much continencie in a single life he took much pains both in writing and Preaching he was very charitable a great promoter of Peace amongst Princes very free from ambition hatred and revenge he used often to say Subdiâ—us esto Deo ora eum c. Submit thy selfe to God and pray unto him for he is near to those that are of a contrite heart and will save the humble in spirit He employed his time so well that he left none for pleasures and used to say That nothing refreshed him more in his sorrowes then conference with learned and godly men Falling sick of a most troublesome disease he was frequent in holy prayer for himselfe for all the Princes of that family for his country and for Germany he had some portions of holy Scriptures daily read to him he made his Will wherein he set downe the Confession of his Faith and commended the defense of his Churches to his brother he added something to the stipends of all the godly Ministers under his charge He often ruminated upon those texts God so loved the world that he gave c. No man shall take my sheep out of my hand Come unto mee all yee that are wearie c. and so in holy meditations and prayer hee resigned up his Spirit unto God Anno Christi 1543. and of his Age 47. A Prince by birth and of a Princely minde Full frought with vertues of each severall kinde Is here presented ornaments of grace Such as doe challenge not the second place But first by merit here you may behold One whose rare vertues no Pen can unfold In pious duties he did strive to be Transcendant who was by nature frée For to the Poore he reliefe did give During the time that he on earth did live Read but his life and then at large you le sée Monopoliz'd in him most vertues be The life and Death of Justus Jonas who dyed Anno Christi 1555. IVstus Ionas was born at Northusa Anno Christi 1493. where his Father was a Senator who falling sick of the Plague and having applyed an Onion to the Soare and taking it off and laid it by him this little Ionas coming tooke the Onion and eat it up yet without any prejudice to himself God miraculously preserving of him He was first brought up at Schoole afterwards he studied Law and made a good progresse therein But upon better thoughâ—s he studied Divinity and proceeded Doctor and embraced the Reformed Religion and was called Anno Christi 1521. to a Pastorall charge in Wittenberg he was present at most of the Disputations about Religion where he defended the truth strenuously and endevoured to promote peace he was also made a Professor in that Universitie He with Spalatine and Amsdorfius was imployed by the Elector of Saxonie to Reforme the Churches in Misnia and Thuringia From thence he was called unto Hale in Saxonie where he Preached and promoted Religion exceedingly Luther somtimes resorted thither to him and tooke him along with him in his last journey to Isleben where he dyed after whose death he remained a while in the Duke of Saxonies Court and was a constant companion of Iohn Frederickes sons in all their afflictions and lastly he was set over the Church in Eisfield where he ended his dayes in much peace and comfort Anno Christi 1555. and of his Age 63. Being once under temptations and in great agonie he shewed much despondencie but his servant partly by comforting of him and partly by chiding of him cheared him up and at last through Gods mercy the Spirit prevailed against the Flesh. Justius by name no poyson sure could kill God so protected him from what was ill The venome of the Plague did séeme to be No poyson unto him for he scap'd frée Although the Duyon he by chance did eat That poyson'd was by the Plagues
strong heat Nor was his body but his minde as frée From the contagion of hels leprosie For all his study was how to obtaine That happy treasure whereby he might gaine Heaven aâ— the last and sure unto that place He 's long since gone who was his Conntries grace The Life and Death of John Rogers who died Anno Christi 1555. IOhn Rogers was borne in England and brought up at the University of Cambridge where he profited very much in good learning and from thence was chosen by the Merchant Aâ—venturers to be their Chaplaine at Antwerpe to whom he Preached many yeeres and there falling into acquaintance with William Tindall and Miles Coverdal who were fled from persecution in England he by their meanes profited much in the knowledge of Jesus Christ and joyned with them in that painefull and profitable worke of Translating the Bible into English there he married a wife and from thence he went to Wittenberg where he much profited in learning and grew so skilfull in the Dutch tongue that he was chosen Pastor to a Congregation there where he discharged his Office with diligence and faithfulnesse many yeeres but in King Edwards time he was sent for home by Bishop Ridley and was made a Prebend of Pauls in which place he Preached faithfully till Queen Maries days and in the beginning of her Reign in a Sermons at Pauls-Croâ—se he exhorted the people constantly to adhere to that Doctrine which they had been taught and to beware of pestilent Popery c. for which he was called before the Lords of the Councill where he made a stout witty and godly answer and was dismissed but after the Queens Proclamation against True-Preaching he was again called the Bishops thirsting for his blood and committed prisoner to his owne house whence he might have escaped and had many motives as his wife and ten children his friends in Germany where he could not want preferment c. But being once called to answer in Christs Cause he would not depart though to the hazard of his life from his own house he was removed by Bonner to Newgate amongst thieves and murtherers he was examined by the Lord Chancellor and the rest of the Councell and by them was re-committed to prison he was much pressed to recant but stoutly refusing was first excommunicated and degraded and then condemned after which he desired that his wife to whom he had been married eighteen yeeres and by whom he had ten children and she being a stranger might be admitted to come to him whilst he lived but Stephen Gardiner then Lord Chancellor would by no meanes suffer it February the fourth Anno Christi 1555. he was warned to prepare for death before he rose If it be so said he I need not tie my points and so he was presently had away to Bonner to be degraded of whom he earnestly requested to be admitted to speake with his wife but could not prevaile from thence he was carryed into Smithfield where scarce being permitted to speake to the people he briefly perswaded them to perseverance in that truth which he had taught them which also he was now ready to seale with his blood then was a pardon profered to him if he would recant but he utterly refused it his wife with nine small children and the tenth sucking at her brest came to him but this sorrowfull sight nothing moved him but in the flames he washed his hands and with wonderfull patience took his death all the people exceedingly rejoycing at his constancy praising God for it He was the Proto-martyr in Queene Maries dayes The Sabbath before his death he dranke to Master Hooper who lay in a chamber beneath him bidding the messenger to commend him to him and to tell him That there was never little fellow that would better stick to a man then he would to him supposing they should be both burned together although it happened otherwise Though this grave Father was enfor'd to flye His envious Countrey for security Yet his undâ—unted courage would not move That alwayes stood as Sentinell to love 'T was not a prison could affection swage He like a Bird sung swéetest in a cage When firâ—t the Bible with great paines and care He into English did translate so far That knowing men did admire the same And justly did extoll his lasting fame Who did contemne the fury of all those Who both to us and him were mortall foes The Life and Death of Laurence Saunders who died Anno Christi 1555. LAurence Saunders was borne of worshipfull Parents brought up in learning at Eaton Schoole and from thence chosen to Kings Colledge in Cambridge where he continued three yeers and profited in learning very much then by his Moâ—her who was very rich he was bound to a Merchant in London but not affecting that course of life his Master gave him his Indentures and he returned to his studies in Cambridge where also he studied Greeke and Hebrew but especially the holy Scriptures he was frequent and very fervent in Prayer and when assaulted by temptations he still found much support and comfort in prayer whereby he gained such experience that he became a great comforter of others he Commensed Master of Arts and stayed long after in the University In the beginning of King Edwards Raign he began to Preach being first Ordeined a Minister and that with such generall approbation that he was chosen to read a Divinity-Lecture at Fotheringay where by his Doctrine and life he drew many to God and stopped the mouths of the adversaries about which time he married a wife and from thence he was removed to the Minster of Leichfield where also he by his Life and Dâ—ctrine gat a good report even from his adversaries from thence he was removed to Church-Langton in Leicestershire and from thence to Alâ—allowes in Breadstreet London and after his admission there he went backe into the Country to resign his Benefice which fell out when Queen Mary raised stirs to get the Crown In his journey he preach'd at Northampton not medling with the State but boldly delivered his conscience against Popish Doctrine and errors which said he are like to spring up againe as a just plague for the little love which England hath borne to the true Word of God so plentifully offered to them And seeing the dreadfull day approaching inflâ—med with godly zeal he Preached diligently at both his Benifices not having opportunity to resign eâ—ther but into the hands of the Papists and notwithstanding the Proclamation to the contrary he taught diligently the Truth at his Country-place where he then was confirming thâ— people and arming them against false doctrine till by force he was resisted some counselled him to fly out oâ— the Kingdome which he refused and being hindred there from preaching he traveled towards London to visit his flock in that place coming near London Master Mordant one of the Qâ—eenes Counsell overtooke him asked him if he did not Preach such a
time in Breadstreet he said Yea And will you said Mordant preach so again Yes said he to morrow you may hear me there where I will confirme by Gods Word all that I then Preached I would counsell you said the other to forbeâ—r Saunders said if you will forbid me by lawfull Authority I must then forbear Nay Mordant I will not forbid you and so they parted Mordant went presently to Bishop Bonner and informed him of Master Saunders his purpose to Preach the next day which accordingly he did and at his lodging being â—omewhat troubled in his thoughts a friend of his asked him hâ—w he did truly said he I am in prison tilâ— I be in prison In the afternoon he prepared himselfe to Preach again but Bonner sent an officer for him who carried him to the Bishop where was Mordant also the Bishop charged him with Treason Heresie and Sedition and required him to write his judgment about Transubstantiation which he did saying You seek my blood and you shall have it I pray God you may be so baptized in it that you may hereafter loath blood sucking and become a better man then Bonner sâ—nt him to Gardiner where he waited four hours before he was called in and after some discourse with him Gardiner sent him to prison to whom he said I thanke God that at last he hath given me a place of rest where I may pray for your conversion He continued in prison one yeere and three months in a lettter to his wife he writes I aâ— merrie and I trust I shall be merrie maugre the teeth of all the Divels in hell Riches I have none to endow you with but that treasure of tasâ—ing â—ow sweet Christ is to hungrie consciences whereâ—f I thanke my Christ I doe feel part that I bequeath unto you and to the rest of my beloved in Christ c. Being at last brought again to examination and lifâ— bâ—ing promised if he would recant he answered I love my life and libertie if I could enjoy them without the hurt of my conscience but by Gods grace I will â—bide the most extremitie that man can doe against mee rather then doe any thing against my conscience Being condemned he was sent to Coventrie to be burned when he came near the place of execution he went chearfully â—o the stake kissing of it and saying Welcom the Crosse of Christ welcom everlasting life and the fire being kindled he sweetly slept in the Lord. Doctor Pendleton and this Master Saunders meeting together in the beginning of Queen Maries reign and speaking of the Persecution that was like to ensue about which Master Saunders shewed much weaknesse and many fears Pendleton said to him What man there is much more cause for mee to fear then for you forasmuch as I have a big and fat body yet will I see the utmost drop of this grease of mine molten away and the last gobbit of this flesh of mine consumâ—d to ashes before I will forsake Iesus Christ and his Truth which I have professed yet not long after upon triall poore feeble faint hearted Saunders by the power and goodnesse of God sealed the Truth with his blood whereas proud Pendleton played the Apostate and turned Papist He from inferior Parents did not spring But such as noble were in every thing Nor did his life but to their splendor adde Which make both them and all that knew him glad For he in knowledge did so high excell That â—asseth aut of man almost to tell Whether his knowledge or his vertues were The more resplendant yet a holy feare Did séem to equall both and which doth crown Him all triumphant he past Martyrdome With â—uch high courage and so rare a zeale That I want words his worth for to revealâ— The Life and Death of John Hooper who dyed Anno Christi 1555. JOhn Hooper was a Student and Graduate in the University of Oxford where having abundantly profited in the study of other Sciencâ—s he was stirred up with a fervent desire to the love and knowledge of the Scriptures in which study he joyned earnest prayers to his diligence for the better understanding of the same but the six Articles coming out at that time hâ— was so hated by some especially by Doctor Smith that he was compelled to leave the Univâ—rsity and went to live with Sir Thâ—mas Arrundel and danger approaching there also he left the Kingdome and went to Paris yet after a while he returned again and lived with one M r. Senâ—low but understanding that snares were again laid for him with much difficulty and danger he escaped the second time into France and from thence travelled into Germanie at Zurick Master Bullinger became his especiall friend where he studied Hebrew and hearing that King Edward the â—ixt was come to the Crowne he was desirous to returne into England and when he tooke his leave of Bullinger he with harty thanks for all kindnesses promised to write often to him of all his affaires but saith he the last news â—f all I shall not be able tâ— write for where I shall take most pains there shall you â—ear of me to be burned to ashes Returning to London he preached twice but at least once every day the people so flockt to him that the Churches could not contein them in this pains-taking he continued to his lives end neither did his labour breake him nor promotion change him nor dainty fare corrupt him he was of a strong body sound health pregnant wit and of invincible patience spare of dyet sparer of words and sparest of time a liberall hous-keeper and very grave in his carriage Being by King Edward made first Bishop of Glocester then of Worcester he carried himselfe so uprightly and inoffensively that his enemies had nothing to say against him He used to goe about from town to towne and from village to village to preach unto the people he governed his house so that in every corner of it there was some smell of vertue good example honest conversation and reading of the Scriptures In his Hall there was daily a table spread with good store of victuals and beset with poore folke of the City of Worcester by turns who were served by four at a Mesâ—e with whole and wholesome meat and when they were served being before examined by himselfe or his deputies of the Lords Prayer Creed and ten Commandements then he himself sate down to dinner and not before In the beginning â—f Qâ—een Maries dayes he was sent for by a Pursivant to London and though he had opportunity and was perswaded by his friends to flye yet he refused saying Once I did flye but now being called to this place and vocation I am resolved to stay and to live and dye with my sheepe By Winchester when he came to London he was railed upon and committed to prison afterwards also at his examination they called him Beast Hypocrite c. which he bore without answering againe in the Fleeâ—
where he was prisoner he had nothing but a pad of straw for a bâ—d and a rotten covering till good people sent him a bed to lye on of one side his chamber was the sinke and filth of the house on the other the town-ditch enough to have choaked him After he had laien thus a while falling sick the doors bars hasps and chaines being all made fast he both mourned called and cryed for helpe yet the Warden hearing would suffer none to go to him saying Let him alone if he dye it were â— good riddance of him c. At last being degraded and condemned he was sent to Glocester to be burned the night before his death he did eat his meat quietly and slept soundly after his first sleep he spent the rest of the night in prayer the next day Sir Anthonie Kingston coming to him told him that life was sweet and death bitter to which he answered The death to come is more bitter and the life to come more sweet I am come hither to end this life and suffer death because I will not gain-say the former Truth that I have here taught unto you also a blinde Boy coming to him after he had examined him in the grounds of Religion he said Ah poor Boy God hath taken from thee thy outward sight but hath given thee another sight much more precious having endued thy soule with the eye of knowledge and faith Being delivered to the Sheriff he said to him My request to you Master Sheriff is onely that there may be a quick fire shortly to make an end of me and in the mean time I will be as obedient to you as you can desire if you thinke I doe amisse in any thing hold up your finger and I have done I might have had my liâ—e with much worldly gaine but I am willing to offer up my life for the Truth and trust to dye a faithfull servant to God and a true subject to the Queen when he saw the Sheriffs men with so many weapons he said This is morâ— then needs if you had willed me I would have gone alone to the stake and have troubled none of you all as he went to the stake he was forbid to speake to the people he looked chearfully and with a more ruddy countenance then ordinary being comâ— thâ—thâ—r he prayed about half an â—our and having a box with a pardon set before him he cryed If you love my soul away with it if you love my soul away with it Three Irons being prepared to fasten him to the stake he onely put on an Iron-hoop about his middle bidding them take away the rest saying I doubt not but God will give me strength to abide the extremity of the fire without binding When reeds were cast to him he embraced and kissed them putting them under his arm where he had bags of gun-power also when fire was first pâ—t to him the faggots being green and the winde blowing away the flâ—me he was but scorched more faggots being laid to him the fiâ—e was so supprest that his nâ—ther-parts were burned his upper being scarce touched he prayed O Iesus the son of David have mercy upon mâ— and receive my soule and wiping his eyes with his hands he said For Gods love let me have more fire A third fire being kindled it burned more violently yet was he alive a great while in it the last words which he uttered being Lord Iesus receive my spirit In one of his Letters he wrote Imprisonment is painfull but liberty upon evill conditions is worse the Prison stinkes yet noâ— so much as sweet houses where the feare of God is wanting I must be alone and solitary it s better to be so and have God with me then to be in company with the wicked Losse of goods is great but losse of grace and Gods favour is greater I cannot tell how to answer before great and learned men yet it is better to doe that then stand naked before Gods tribunall I shall dye by the hands of cruell men he is blessed that looseth this life and findeth life eternall there is neither felicitie nor adversitie of this world that is great if it be weighed with the joyes and pains of the world to come Reader behold and then admire Hoâ—pers most rich Seraphicke fire His constancâ— waâ— great his heart Balsoâ—'d by heav'n out-vi'd all smart Rare was his life rare was his death Whilst time remains his fame shall want no breath The Life and Death of Rowland Tailor who dyed Anno Christi 1555. ROwland Tailor was Doctor in both the Laws and Rector of Hadley in Suffolke where Master Thomas Bilney had formerly been a Preacher of the Word and in which place there were few either men or women that were not well learned in the holy Scriptures many having often read over the whole Bible and could say a great part of Paul's Epistles by heart Here this Doctor Tailor Preached constantly on Sabbaths Holy-dayes and at other times when he could get the People together His life also and conversation was very exemplary and full of holinesse he was meek and humble yet would stoutly rebuke sin in the greatest to the poore blinde lame sick bed-rid or that had many children he was a father causing the Parishioners to make good provision for them besides what of his owne bounty he gave them he brought up his children in the fear of God and good learning In the begining of Queen Maries reign two Popish persons suborned a Priest to come and say Masse in his Church he being at his study and hearing the Bell to toul went to Church and finding this Priest guarded with drawn swords in his Popish robes ready to begin the Masse he said unto him Thou Divell who made thee so bold to enter into this Church to prophane and defile it with this abominable Idolatrie I command thee thou Popish Wolfe in the name of God to avoid hence and not to presume thus to poyson Christs flock but the â—tanders by forcing Doctor Tailor out of the Church the Priest went on with his Masse and shortly after the Bishop being informed hereof sent his letters Missive for Doctor Tailor whereupon his friends earnestly entreated him to flye telling him that he could neither expect justice nor favour but imprisonment and cruell death to whom he answered I know my Cause to be so good and righteous and the Truth so strong upoâ— my side that I will by Gods grace appeare before them and to their beards resist their false doings for I beleeve that I shall never be able to doe God so good service as now and that I shall never have so glorions a calling nor so great mercie of God profered me as I have now wherefore pray for me and I doubt not but God will give me strength and his holy spirit that all my adversaries shal be ashamed of their doings and so preparing himselfe he went to London and presented himselfe to
Stephen Gardiner Lord Chancellor of England who railed upon him asked him if he knew him not c. to whom he answered Yea I know you and all your greatnesse yet you are but a mortall man and if I should be affraid of your Lordly looks why feare you not God the Lord of us all c. But after other discourse he sent him to the Kings Bench commanding his Keeper to keep him strictly In Prison he spent his time in prayer reading the Scriptures Preaching to the prisoners and to others that resorted to him he was diverse times examined of his Faith and witnessed a good Confession before his adversaries for which at last he was condemned to dye when his sentence was read he told them that God the righteous Judge would require his blood at their hands and that the proudest of them all should repent their receiving againe of Antichrist and their tyranny against the flocke of Christ. He was sent down to Hadley to be burn'd and all the way as he went he was very merrie as one that went to a banquet or Bridall In his journey the Sheriff of Essex perswaded him much to return to the Popish Religion c. to whom at last he answered I well perceive now that I have been deceived my sâ—lfe and shall deceive many in Hadley of their expectation when the Sheriff desired him to explain his meaning hoping that he would recant he said I am a man of a very great carkasse which I had hoped should have been buried in Hadley Churchyard but I see I am deceived there are a great number of worms there which should have had jollie feeding upon this carryon but now both I and they shall be deceived of our expectation when he came within two miles of Hadley he desired to alight and being downe he leap't and fet a frisk or two saying God be praised I am now almost at home and have not past a mile or two and I am even at my fathers house at Hadley towns-end a poore man with five children met him crying O dear father and good shepheard God help and succour thee as thou hast many a time succouâ—'d me and my poore children The streets were full of people weeping and bewailing their losse to whom he said I have preached to you Gods Word and Truth and am come to seal it with my blood He gave all his money to the poore for whom he was wont thus to provide formerly once a fortnight at least he used to call upon Sir Henry Doil and other rich Clothiers to goe with him to the Alms houses to see what the poore lacked in meat dâ—ink apparell bedding and other necessaries withall â—xhorting comforting and rebuking as he saw occasion Comming to the plâ—ce of execution he was not suffered to speak to the people who much lamented his death yet he was very chearfull saying Thanks be to God I am even at home and when he had prayed and made himselfe ready he went to the stake and kissed it the fire being kindled he held up his hands called upon God saying Mercifull father of heaven for Iesus Christ my Saviours sake receive my soul into thy hands and so stood still without moving till one with an halberd strook out his brains Among the many Champions of the Lord Who with their blood to Truth did beare record And feared not in furious flames to fry That they Christs Gospels light might magnifie Was pious precious Doctor Tailor stout Who did the fight of Faith to th' death fight out A very learned painfull Pastor grave Who to his Flock full testimony gave Of his great wisdomeâ— charity and love And all Soul saving graces from above Who for opposing Romes impiety Being apprehended and condemnâ—d to dye He kist his Stake being bound to it in chaines Burning a Popish wretch beat out his braines And thus this blessed Martyr chéerfully Went to his heavenly home triumphantly IOHN BRADEFORD The Life and Death of John Bradford NExt to this last mad Septenary of unchristian liberty and unparalled distractions the Devill never seem'd to injoy more chaine in this Kiâ—gdome then in the time of Queene Mary wherein laying hold on the weaknesse and superâ—ticion of a silly woman bred up in Popery and by reason of the bar interpos'd betwixt her and the Crowne by her Royall Brother Edward the sixt wholly subjected to the violent and bloody counsels of that faction which finally prevailed in her restitution and establishment he kindled more Bonefires in the space of three or four yeerâ—s in England then the world had at any time beheld in so few yeeres and in one Kingdome since the last of the first â—en Persecutions I dare not upon Master Foxes bare report who was somtimes and perhaps of purpose by the adversaries themselves miserably abus'd in hiâ— informations acknowledge all for Martyrs whom I finde in his Catalogue But what will Stapleton or any other Papist get by that The Church of Englaâ—d as it was of late reformed the Reformation by Law established hath produced added as many genuine knowing valiant Champions to that Noble Army as wiâ—hin these thousand yeers any Church in Christendome which is glory enough without hooking in either Heretique or Schismatique or any other who suffered for nothing lesse then well doing And from a chiefe place amongst those holy men and witnesseâ— to the truth of the Gospell of Iesus Christ all Stapletons exceptions bitter rayling and intemperat scoffes can not ought not exclude this blessed Saint and servant of God Iohn Bradford as shall evidently appeare to as many as wiâ—hout prejudice shall peruse and pondor his insuing History which God willing we will drive throuh the whole Course of his life from his Birth to his Martyrdome But to take our rise from his Birth He was borne in Manchester the quality of his Parentâ— though their meanes be not recorded may be easily gathered by his Education which was the best that either that place or those times could â—fford for he arrived very early at the knowledge of the Latin Tongue and for Ariâ—hmaticke he had few equals in those parts both which bâ—ing adorn'd and helped forward by a faire and speedy hand he became fit for imployment abroad before any great notice was taken of him at home which moved Sir Iohn Harrington a noble Knight and in good esteem both with King Henry the eight and his Son Edward the sixt to assume him into the number of his fellowes and imploy him in his most private and and urgent affaires both at home and abroad For at Bulloigne he was Treasurer at warres and here he had the charge and oversight of all his Majesties buildings In both imployments he found the service of young Bradford who besides his honesty and diligence had a notable dexterity in casting up and Auditing accoumpts of such importance that where ever he imploy'd him he committed all to his trust and own'd whatsoever he did
Saunders at that time a prisoner in the Marshalsey Bishop Farrar he found in the Kings Bench before him where having indured a close and tedious imprisonment he began at length through humane infirmity to recoyle in the point of Transubstantiation in so much that he undertooke to Communicate under one Kinde at Easter following But Bradford dealt so effectually with him that he revok'd this promise and resumed his former principles His occasions of escape were as many as the dayes of his imprisonment whereby any man may see to save in life he wovld not break his word with his Keepers being asked what course he would take if God should deliver him out of prison he said he would not fly oâ—t of the Kingdome but there Preach though secretly as the times would perâ—it him During his long restraint he was oftentimes examined first by the Lords of the Councell at what time he was clapt up in the Tower which was in August 1553. but of that examination there is nothing now extant except onely one passage repealed in the second After that by the Bishop of Winchester Lord Chancellor of England and other select Commissioners Ianuary 22. 1555. The things laid to his charge were principally these That he was the Author of the tumult at Bournes Sermon because forsooth he so readily and dextrously appeased the same That he presumed to Preach without Licence though he had been a Divinity Lecturer at Pauls two yeeres before that tumult And that upon his first Committall to the Tower he had answered the Queens Councell peremptorily and saucily in the point of Religion As that he was now more then ever confirm'd in the same as it was reform'd and professed under Edward the sixt The first and last of these Articles he denyed saving the words last repeated the second he laboured to justifie as not requisite from them by any law at that time in force when he Preached in the conclusion they twitted him in the teeth with Heresie and accused him of writing from the Tower seditious letters into Lancaster whereto because they desended not to particulars he gave them onely generall answers The whole conference was larded with an often repealed tender of the Queens Mercy in case he would confesse his sedition acknowledge and abjure his Heresies and returne to the bosome of the Romish Church after their example To the first he said he could not acknowledge himselfe guilty of what he neither Committed nor intended To the second that he never Preached or Patronized any error to his knowledge being ready to abjure whatsoever he was not able to defend To the third that he willingly embraced the Queens Mercy though he neither needed not could accept thereof as they were pleased to Clog it with Conditions repugnant to the word of God the cleer light of his owne Conscience The 19. day of Ianuary following he was the third time convented in Saint Mary Overies before the same Winchester and diverse other Bishops his fellow Comnissioners where at first the same things were againe objected unto him and received the same Answers After much jangling and a second offer of mercy upon the former Condition they required a Peremptory positive accoumpt of his faith concerning Christs Corporall presence in the Eucharist To which he replyed that during a yeere and eight moneths imprisonment they had never prest him with that question but now that by altering the state of Religion they had made the Contrary opinion unto theirs Hereticall and all Heresie interpretatively and by consequence Capitall it is more then Evident what thereby they hunted after This drove the Lord Chancellor into a long Apologeticall Oration of his owne innocency and notorious lenity in that kind which ended without expecting what Bradford would reply upon some intelligence from the Kitchin he adjurend the Court and went home to dinner The day following which was the fourth last of his apparence he was brought to the same place and before the same judges where after many Interrogatories and answers concerning the corporall presence the Pope and Queenes authority and other Emergent questions which if here inserted would swell the processe of his death to thrice the length of his lif but may be found at large in the Martirologie he was finally condemned for worshiping the God of our fathers after that way which those bloud-suckers called Heresie excommunicated and delivered over to the Secular powers Ianuary 31. 1555. who first committed him to the Clinke and afterwards to the Counter where he remained to the first of Iuly following had many hot Disputes sharp Conflicts 1. with Bonner Bishop of London 2. with Master Wollerton the Bishops Chaplen 3. Percivall Creswell and Doctor Harding 4. Doctor Harpsfieled and Doctor Harding 5. with Hetâ—â— Archbishop of Yorke and Day Bishop of Chichester 6. with two Spanish Friers Alphonsus a Castro and King Philips Confessor 7. Doctor Weston and Master Coillier Warden of Manchester 8. Doctor Pendleton 9. with Doctor Weston and others 10. with Doctor Weston alone for many visited him after condemnation some as the Divell did our blessed Saviour to tempt and pervert him and some to receive instruction comfort by him for in his two last prisons he Preached constantly twice every Lords day freequently administred the Lords Supper to his fellow prisoners visiting them all almost every day even to the thieves and cutpurses in the Grate and almost if he had it as often relieving them At first they resolved to burn him at Manchesteâ— where he was borne but altered that resolution I know not upon what occasion The Saturday at night before he suffered he dream'd his chaine was brought to the Counter gate that the next day being Sunday he should be had to Newgate and burned at Smithfield the Munday ensuing which after many frightfull awakings still recurring to his troubled fancy he arose and communicating what he had dreamed to his Chamber-fellow fell to his old exercise of reading and praying The next day after dinner whilst he discoursed of the ripenesse of siâ—ne of death and the kingdome of heaven up came the Keepers wife halfe beside her selfe and said unto him with tears in her eyes O Master Bradford your chaine is now a hammering to night you will be removed to Newgate and to morrow burned at Smithfield having heard her out with hands and eyes lifted up unto heaven he blessed God who had thought him worthy and made him willing to suffer for his trâ—th thanked the good woman for her Compassion but more for her news and so went up to his Chamber where he spent some houres in prayer and then called up his Chamber-fellow to whom he gave som things privately in charge and dilivered certaine papers but of what concernment I cannot finde the rest of that afterâ—noon he spent in prayer and other heavenly exercises which he performed with admirable adhesion to God and obstraction from the world being often times so
transâ—ported and elevated in his raptures that he seemed already in possession of that Crowne which for the present through fire and faggots he but aspir'd to to the great admiration and comfort of as many of his friends as that day had the happinesse to visit him Having blest and distributed such things amongst the servants of the hous as he thought fit he made a most fervent pacheticall farwell-prayer in the company of his fellow prisoners w th such ravishment of Spirit and abundance of tears that the hardest hearted amongst them could not choose but Simpathize w th him In the midst of this prayers when he put on the shirt wherein he was to be burned he inlarged himselfe in a most sweet meditation of the Wedding Garment and after that about twelve a clock in the night came downe into the Court where the prisoners tooke their finall leave of him as he went from the Counter to Newgate though it was about midnight yet great multitudes of people were gathered together in the streets who much lamented and earnestly pray'd for him to whom he returned their curtesie in both kinds with interest About nine in the morning he was led forth to Smithfield with a very great Guard as he came downe the staires he espied an old friend whom he called unto him imbraced and after some private whisperings bestowed upon him his velvet night-cap handkershiefe and som other trifles And yet Roger Beswicke his brother in law had his head cruelly broken by Seriffe Woodrofe for but offering to speake to him for which and other his barbarous inhumanities committed against the Saints and faithfull witnesses of Iesus Christ at such times a heavy and visible judgment overtooke him within few yeeres thereafter for besides the Palsie which for eight yeers together disinabled him from riding walking or turning himselfe in his bed he fell into a most devouring and insatiable Bulimy As soone as he approached the stake he fell flat on the ground intending there to power forth hiâ— private prayers for he was not permitted to do it publickly unto almighty God But Woodrofe the Sheriffe commanded to him arise and dispatch for that the people increased and pressed upon him whereat eftsoone he got up and when he had imbraced the stake and kissed it he put off his Cloathes which he intreated might be given to his servant because he had nothing else to leave him being tyed to the stake he comforted the stripling that was burned with him and earnestly exhorted the people to repentance which so inraged the Sherieffe that which was not usuall he commanded his hands should be tyed His last audiable Words were those of our Saviours Strait is the way and narrow is the gate that leadeth to Salvation and few there be that finde it He indured the flame as a fresh gale of wind in a hot Summers day without any reluctancy confirming by his death the truth of that doctrine which he had so diligently and powerfully Preached during his life which ended Iuly the first 1556. in the prime though in what yeere of his age is not certainly knowne He was for his stature tall but slender of a faintish sanguine Complexion his heir and beard auburne his countenance was full of sweetnesse mix'd with reverence and austerity He spent the whole time of his inprisonment in reading Preaching and praying eating but once every day and that but sparingly scarcely ever rising from that meale wherein his tears did not largly bedew his trencher He slept not commonly above four hours a night from the time he went to bed till dead sleep lock'd up his senses his candle went not out nor his booke out of his hand Halfe an hour he sent usually after dinner in discourse which was all the recreation he used the rest of his time in his owne private devotions and studies His death was generally lamented by all who knew or bus heard of of him yea many Papists themselves being convicted with his innocency of his life or taken with the quicknesse and modisty of his answers but especially considering â—he implacable malice and cruelty of his enemies heartily wished his deliverance for all men observid how they had first committed him without law and then after a yeers imprisonment made one to take away his life He denyed indeed the Popes authority over the Church of England and so had his judges done but the yeere before And for Christs corporall presence in the Sacrament which was the Artickle wherupon they chiefly condemned him he never denyed it in the worthy Receiver as to the eye of Faith no man yet whether Papist or Protâ—stant could never discover it through the accidents of Bread and Wine by the eye of the body We are inform'd by Master Fox that he wrote many comfortable Treatises especially during his imprisonment oâ— which these onely have had the fortune to reach our times 1 Two Sermons the first of Repentance the second of the Lords Supper 2 Some leâ—ters to his fellow Marâ—yres 3 An answere to two letters desiring to know wheâ—her one might goe to Masâ— or not 4 The danger ensuing the hearing of Masse 5 Hiâ— examination before the officers 6 Godly Meditations made in Prison cald his short Prayers 7 Truths Complaints 8 Melancthon translated of Prayers See how undaunted Bradford hath display'd Truths golden Colours nothing could invade His heaven fild thoughts but heaven in whose just cause He liv'd though murther'd by Papistick lawes Relgion told him that his cause was good He need not feare to signe it with his blood And seal it with his heart Bradford agreed To signe whilst Heaven was witnesse to the deed Insulting Papists what can ye declare But this your foulnesse made our Bradford faire Your fire refin'd his heart and made it prove A perfect lover of the God of love NICOLAS RIDLY The Life and Death of Nicolas Ridly AN other Paul otherwise in diverse respects save that we finde not that he ever persecuted the flock or faith of Christ may this choise instrument of God Nicolas Ridley be not unfitly nor unworthily be stiled For he was for a long time a maintainer and practiser of Popish superstitions which his adversaries also twitâ—ng him with in the time of his troubles he denyed not but freely confeâ—sed yet withall profeâ—sing that he had since that time repented him thereof and God he trustâ—d had in mercy pardoned upon his repentance whaâ— in ignorance he then did But after it pleased God to reveale hiâ— truth to him more clearly he laboured as earnestly as any of his fellow labourers in the propagation of it being indowed with as eminent parts as any of them for that purpose and at length sealed it up as did some others of them also with his blood He was borne in Northumberland as some say or as others in the Bishopricke of Durham descended of a worshipfull Family bearing that name and trained up in the first rudiments of
they pleased they affirming that it contained words of blasphemy and he averring that a line or two excepted there was nothing in it but the sayings of the auncient Doctors confirming his assertions hardly could he have leave to utter a few words and that not without oft interruption and with telling on their fingers-ends how many words he had spoken Aâ— length they excomunicated him with the greater excomunication and haveing passed sentance of condemnation against him turned him over to the Secular power On the fifteenth day of the same moneth he was by Brookes Bishop of Glocester assisted by some other degraded at which time he requested the said Bishop to second his petition to the Queene that such Tenants as he had made Leases to while he was possessed of the Bishoprick of London his Sister among the rest might quietly enjoy the sam this he promised to do acknowledging it to be agreeable to equity and right but it seemes it could not be obtained for that cruell bloud-sucker whose Mother and Sister he had so kindly delt with thrust his Sister and her Husband against all Law and conscience out of the keeping of a Park which he had conferred upon them nor is it likely that the rest fared much better then they did The day following he suffred together with Master Latimer who much strengthned him as by conference before so at the Stake then The evening before he suffered he washed his Beard and his Feete and bad those at boord that supped with him to his wedding the next day demanded of his brother Master Shipside whether he thought his sister his wife could find in her heart to be there and he answering that he durst say she would with all her heart he professed to be thereof very glad At suppertime he was very cheerfull and merry desiring those there present that wept of w ch number M rs Irish his Hostesse tho a blind and eager Papist was one to quiet themselves affirming that tho his breakefast was like to be somwhat sharp and painfull yet his supper he was sure should be pleasant and sweet His brother offred to watch all night with him But he refused it telling him that he intended to go to bead hoping to sleepe as quietly that night as ever he did in his life So on the next day being the sixteenth of October this meeke Sheepe of Christ and yet a stout Bel-weather of his flock faithfull and constant to his blessed shepheard and soveraign owner unto death yea unto paines and torments worse then death was together with his copartner both in defence of the Faith and of afflictions for the defence of it brought out to the place of their Martyrdome in a Ditch or low parcell of ground lying on the North side of the City behind Baliol Colledge where Doctor Smith who had before in King Edwards time recanted instead of a Sermon made a bitter invective against them which they offred to answer but when they could not bâ— permitted to speâ—k they committed their cause to God commended their souls into his hands and with much readinesse and resolution yeelded their bodies to the mercilesse flames and such cruel torments therein as other their breathâ—rn and fellow-witnesses of Christ had bâ—fore thâ—m undeâ—gonâ— wherein this our worthy and valianâ— spirituall Champion through the iâ—discretâ—on oâ— those that composed â—he pile and managed the fewell about him hindring there where they thought to helpe and lengthening his torments by those meanes whereby they hoped to have shortened them endured a long time in grievous paines to the heart griefe of the behoulders burning in a manner by piece-meale till at lengâ—h having passed this fiery triall his soule was as in a flaming Chariot with Elias carried up into the highest Heaven Some works of his though not many remaine 1 A Protestation or Determination delivered in the Schooles at a Disputation in King Edwards dayes 2 His Disputations at Oxford in Qâ—eene Maries time 3 An assertion of the true faith concerning the Lords Supper against Transubstantiation translated after into Latine and Printed aâ— Geneva 4 A Treatise concerning the right forme of Administration of the Lords Supper 5 A Treatise against setting up and adoring of Imagis 6 A Conference betweene him and Master Latimer in Prison 7 A large Farewell to his faithfull friends together with a sharp Admonition to obstinate Papists 8 An other Farewell to the imprisoned and exiled for the Gospel 9 A Treatise conâ—aimning a Lamentation for the change of Religion and a comparison of the Romish doctrine with that of the Gospell 10 Divers pious Letters written to divers persons Read in the progresse of this blessed story Romes cursed â—ruelty and Ridlyes glory Romes Sâ—râ—ns song but Ridlyes carelesse eare Was deaf They â—hâ—rmd â—â—t Ridly would not hearâ— Rome sâ—â—g preferment but brave Ridleys tongue Condemn'd that fâ—lse Preferment which Rome â—ung Rome whisâ—red wealthâ— but Ridly whose great gaine Was godlinesse he wâ—v'd it with disdayâ—e Rome threatned Durance but great Ridleys mind Was too too strong for threats or Chaines to binde Româ— thundred death bâ—t Ridlyes dauntlâ—sse eye Star'd in deaths face and scornd death â—tanding by In spite of Rome for Englandâ— Faith he â—tood And in the flames he seald it with his Blood PETRVS MARTYR The Life and Death of Peter Martyr THe yeere from Christs birth 1500. â—s for many matters of much moment very remarkable Among others for the Jubilee that Pope Alexander the sixt whose hâ—â—lish life and dismall end the stories of those times relate held that yeere at Rome and the terrible tempest that ensued the same wherein the Angell that stood on the top of the Popâ— Church was overthrown and the Popâ— owne Chamber by the fall of a â—unnell so â—eaten downe upon him that diverse of those were slain that attended then upon him and he himselfe so buried in the rubish that he was hardly got out alive The same yeere amidâ—â—hiâ— height of Popish imposture together with these direfull presages of its downefall was born to Philip King of Spain his son Charles after Emperor the first of that name under whom the Gospell though much against his will gained good footing in Germany And the same yeer also came into this world that famous Scholler and Divine Peter Martyr Vermily one that much furthered the advancement thereof as well in those parts as else-where He came of that ancient and worshipfull family of Vermily born at Florence in Italie Stephen Vermily his father and Mary Fumantine his Mother His name was given him by his Parents from one Peter of Milaine a Martyr reported to have been slain sometime by the Arrian faction whose Church stood neere unto their house This Peter Martyr being the onely son of his Parents that attained to any yeeres was by them carefully trained up in good literature from a child his mother her selfe a prety scholler reading Terence to him in Latin After which domestick discipline
there afterwards for falling not long after into a very dangerous sicknesse whereof he hardly recovered the Fathers of his Order in a generall Assembly shortly after his recovery supposing that the ayre of that City did not so well agree with him made him their Generall Viâ—iter when he had been yet but three yeeres at Naples In which imployment supported by the Cardinall Gonzagâ— the Protector of their Order he so carryed himselfe suppressing some that carryed themselves tyrannously in their places severely chastising others that lived loosly leudly that though he gained much grace and credit to the Order no lesse love and affection to himselfe from the better minded among them yet incurred he withall much envy ill-will from those that were otherwise disposed It is a point of divellish policy too oft practised under a sembleance of honour to prefer men to such places as may prove prejudiciall to them and become a meanes of their overthrow Some of these Machiavilians therefore in a generall meeting of the Fathers of the Order at Manâ—ua knowing a deadly fewd and inveterate hatred to intercede betweene the Inhabitants of Luca and those of Florence our Martyrs Country move to have him made Pryor of Saint Fridian in Luca a place of great esteem for that the Pryor of that House hath Episcopall Jurisdiction over the one moity of the City hoping that for Countries sake he should there find opposition and molestation more then enough The motion was on all hands soon assented unto but the event answered not their expectation For by his wise kind and discreet carryage among them he gained so much good will and esteeme with them that they affected him no otherwise then as if he had been a native and by a solemn embassage made suite to the Principall of the Order that Peter Martyr might not be removed againe from them Here to advance both Religion and Learning among them he procured learned men of great note to read to the younger sort the tongues one Latine and the other Greeke and a third which was Emmanuell Tremellius the Hebrew He himselfe daily read to them some part of Saint Pauls Epistles in Greek and examined them in the same to the whole Company before supper he expounded some Psalme to which exercise diverse learned of the Nobility and Gentry did also usually resort and every Lords day he preached publikly to the People By which his godly labours many attained to much knowledge as appeared afterward by the number of those who after his departure thence sustained exilement for the truth among whom that famous Zanchie one These his good proceedings his adversaries much maligning held a meeting at Genoa and convented him thither But he having intellidence of their complotment and taking warning by their late dealings with a godly Eremite of the same Order resolved to decline them and to betake himselfe to some place of better safety Having therefore committed to his Deputy the charge of the Monastery and his Library his onely wealth to a trusty friend in Luca to be sent after him into Germany he left the City secretly and from thence travelled first toward his owne Country to Pisa where meeting with certaine religious Noble men he celebrated together with them in due manner the Lords Supper and from thence by letters both to Cardinall Poole and to those of Luca he rendred a reason of his departure from them After that coming to Florence but making no long stay there he departed from thence for Germany and passing the Alpes came into Switzerland wher he arrived first at Zurick and passing thence to Basil was by Bucers procurement called over to Strasbourge where for the spâ—c of five yeers with much amity and agreement they joyned together in the Lords worke during which time he expounded the Lamentations of Ieremy the twelve lesser Prophets Genesis Exodus and a good part of Leviticus Here he tooke him a wife one of a religious disposition and in all respects a meete match for one of his ranke and profession who lived with him eight yeeres died in England at Oxford where she had lived in great repute with the best for her singular piety and with the most for he charity corrrespondent thereunto though after her decease in Queen Maries dayes her remaines were inhumanely digged up againe and buried in a dunghill but in Queen Elizabeths dayes restored to their former place of Sepulture againe For after that our Martyr had spent those five yeeres at Strasbourge he was through the procurement of Archbishop Cranmer sent for by letters from King Edward into England and made Reader of Divinity in the University of Oxford There in his readings to which those of the Popish faction also resorted he expounded the first of Saint Paul to the Corinthians and though much envying and stomaking him yet with some patience they his Popish hearers endured him untill he came to handle the Doctrine of the Lords Supper but then they began to breake forth into some outrage to disturbe him in his Lectures to set up mâ—licious and scandalouâ— schedules against him to challing him to disputes which he waved not but maintained first in private in Doctor Cox the Vice chancellors house and afâ—er in publike before his Majesties Commissioners deputed to that purpose where with what strength of Argument and authorty of Scripture he convinced his Antagonists the Acts yet extant may evidently shew This way little prevailing they stirred up the seditious multitude against him by reason whereof he was compelled to retirâ— him to London untill that tumult was supprest Then returning againe for his better security the King made him a Canon of Christs Chuâ—ch by meanes whereof he had convenient housing within the Colledge with more safety Thus setled the second time he proceeded in his wonted employmâ—nt opening now also the Epistle of Saint Paul to the Romans and being in times of vacation called up to London by the Archbishop for his aid and advice in Ecclesiasticall affaires and in composing of Ordinances for the government of the Church And in this course he continued being never out of action untill by the decease of thâ—t our English Phaenix so much admired in his life and bewailed at his death not with ours at home but by others also and that of a divers religion abroad upon the succession of his sister Queen Mary one of a contrary disposition his employment surceased and with somewhat adoe he gat liberty and departed the land and though being way-laid which he had notice of both on this side and beyond the seas yet by Gods good providence and protection he passed unknown and undiscovered through Brabant and other Popish territories and gat in safety to Strasbourge Thither returning he was received with the greater joy in regard of the dangers he had past and escaped and was restored to his professors place againe Therein being resetled he read upon the booke of Iudges and because the Senate
required that the Readers of Divinity should withall at certaine times read Lectures also of Philosophy it was agreed betweene him and Zanchie his fellow-professor that the one of them should read Morall Philosophy which fell to his lot and the other Naturall which Zanchie undertooke Howbeit here he was not long quiet for some factious ones began to complaine of him to the Magistrates as not concurring with the Augustine confession in the Doctrine of the Lords Supper wherein albeit he gave those in authority good satisfaction yet he perceived much heart-burning in other-some and that manifested oft times as well by scandalous libels scattred abroad as also by open opposition Whereupon supposing that he should not live quâ—etly there and do the good that he desired he began to entertaine thoughts of departure and as God in his holy providence pleased to dispose it a fit and faire occasion thereof offred it selfe to him For they at Zurick whereat first he desired to have setled wanting one to succeede Pellicane lately deceased in the Divinity Lecture invite Peter Martyr to come over to them and supply that place thither he came tho with much griefe and unwillingnesse dismissed by the Magistrates and other godly of Strasbourge his fellow-professors especially accompanied with our worthy Iewel after Bishop of Salisbury then exile in those parts who ever entirely affected and reverenced him as his Father At Zuricke with much gratulation was he most lovingly and respectively received by the Magistrates Ministers Bullinger especially and the maine body of the people and notwithstanding an Order before made to the contrary denying such admittance for some yeeres unto any enrolled instantly for a free Denison There he taught about seven yeers expounding the books of Samuel and a good part of the Kings and writing divers polemicall discoursâ—s against the adversaries of the truth Nor would he remove thence albeit he were with much importunity invited to other places where the meanes were larger as first to Geneva upon the decease of that every way noble Count Maximilian Celsus Pastor of the Italian Church there and after in Queen Elizabeths dayes when Religion was againe here setled Bishop Iewell labouring with him in it to returne into these parts but continued teaching there till he died howbeit being earnestly required by letters as well from the Queen mother of France the King of Navarre the Prince of Condee and other Peeres of that Realm as also from Beza and the rest of the Ministers of the reformed Churches in those parts he obtained leave of the Senate to goe over into France to the solemn Conference at Poysâ—i where how wisely and worthily he demeaned himselfe by the Acts of it may appeare Not long after his accesse to Zuricke desirous to continue the race and name of the Virmilii he tooke him a second wife a Virgin of good note and name commended to him from the Iâ—alian Church at Geneva where she lived an Exile for Religion by whom he had two children a son and a daughter who died both very young before him and left her great with a third that proved a daughter He departed this life quietly after some seven dayes sicknesse sitting in his chaire in the presence of his wife and Religious friends on the twelfth day of Novâ—m in the yeer of grace 1562. and of his owne age the sixty third He was of an able healthy big-boned and well limmed body of a countenance expressing an inward grave and setled disposition of extraordinary parts of learnng as well for humanity as for divinity excellent for disputation much admired wheresoever he came for his discreet and moderate though constant and incorrupt carriage never seen in heat of dispute to breake forth into chollour very painfull and industrious endevouring to doe all the good he could for Gods Church either in the places where he was resiant or elsewhere Nor may be omitted here the speech used of him to those of Zuricke by that learned man Iosias Simler that made the Funerall Oration at his Buriall and hath described his life at large that Another they might have in Martyrs roome but another Martyr they should not have But what he was and how laborious his Workes extant besides many other never published will soon shew which are these 1. A Catechisme or Exposition of the Creed in Italian 2. A Prayeâ—-booke composed out of the Psalmes 3. His Commentaries upon Genesis 4. His Commentaries upon the Booke of Iudges 5. His Commentaries upon the two Books of Samuel 6. His Commentaries upon the first Booke of Kings and eleven chapters of the second 7. His Commentaries upon the Epistle of Saint Paul to the Romans 8. His Commentaries upon the first Epistle to the Corinthians 9. His Disputations at Oxford about the Lords Supper 10. His Defence about the orthodox Doctrine of the Lords Supper against Stephâ—n Gâ—rdiner 11. An abridgement of the said Defence made by him afterward 12. His Confession exhibited to the Senate of Strasbourg concerning the supper of the Lord. 13. His judgement concerning the presence of Christs Body in the Sacrament delivered at the Conference of Poyssi 14. A Discourse concerning the Masse 15. A Dialogue concerning the place of Christs Body against the Ubiquitaries 16. His refutation of Richand Smiths two bookes concerning single life and Monkish Vows 17. In his commentaries on the first and second bookes of Aristatle Ethicks and part of the third 18. His Common-Places gathered out of his Commentaries by others and digested into Heads 19. Certain Treatises of Free-wil Gods Providence Predestination and the cause of Sin 20. Propositions some necessary some probable out of Genesis Exodus Leviticus and Judges together with Solutions of a Question or two concerning some Mosaicall Laws and Oathes 21. Divers Sermons and Orations of severall Subjecâ—s and made upon severall occasions 22. His letters to sundry Persons concerning much variety of usefull Discourse Behold this Star which séem'd at the first view Eccâ—ipst with Romish fogs but after grew So bright that his Refulgence did display Truths Banner beaming like the Sun of day His sunshine was not visible alone In true Religions reform'd Horizon But cast his foraign influence as far As th'Artick's distant from th'Antartick star Uext Romes iugenious Malice did compact To quench this flame but failed in the Acts. The seven-crown'd dragons star confronting traine Lasht at this Starâ— but lasht and lasht in vaine Thus he remains sustain'd by higher powers A Saint in heau'ns bright Orbe a Star in Onrs. HVGH LATYMER The Life and Death of Hugh Latimer HVgh Latimer born at Thirkesson in the County of Leicester being of a prompt and sharp wit was by his Parents brought up in learning and at the age of 14. he went to Cambridge where after he had profited in other studies he gave himself to the study of School-Divinity commensed Batchelor in Divinity and was a very zealous Papist made an Oration against Philip Melancâ—hon railed against Master Stafford
Divinity-Lecturer and willed the Scholars in no wise to beleeve him he carried the Crosse before the Procession Master Bilney seeing and pittying his blinde zeal came to his study and desired him to hear him make a Confession of his Faith which Latimer consenting to was so touched therby that he gave over School-Divinity and studied more Oâ—thodox Divines He used often to confer with Master Bilney and asked Master Stafford forgivenesse before he dyed he became a powerfull Preacher and instructed many in private also whereupon the Devill raised up many Doctors and Fryers against him and the Bishop of Elye forbad him to Preach Anno Christi 1529. yet he continued three yeeres preaching with much applause yea the Bishop himself hearing him upon a time commended him and wished that he had the like gifts himselfe he used oftâ—n to visit the Prisoners to relieve the needy and feed the hungry He was afterwards sent foâ— to the Court and employed in the businesse about King Henries Divorce then by the King he had a Benefice given him at West-Kingston neer Sarum where with much diligence he instructed his flocke whereupon some Popish Priestâ— drew up Articles against him and he was much molested by the Bishop of London and the Archbishop of Canterbury out of whose hands the King rescued him and at the request of the Lord Cromwell made him Bishop of Worcester where also he busily employed himselfe in instructing his flocke and giving them a good example by his holy life yet neither there was he quiet for one of great place accuâ—â—d him to the King for preaching Sedition but the King rested satisfied with his answer At New-years-tide the Bishops used to present the King with a New years gift and Bishop Lâ—timer amongst the rest presented him with the New Testament wrapped up in a Napkin with this Posie about it Forniâ—atores adulteros judiâ—abiâ— Dominus Whoremongerâ— and Adulterers God will judge But the six Articles coming out and he seeing that he could not retaine his Office with a good Conscience of his owne accord he reâ—igned his Bishopricke and when he put off his Rocket in hiâ— chamber amongst his friends he gave a skip in the floore for joy feeling his shoulders lighter and being as he said discharged of so heavie a burthen Yet neither then would the Bishops suffer him to be quiet till he was laid up in the Tower where he remained till Edward the sixt his reigne at which time being restored to his liberty he continued a faithfull and painfull preacher all that Kings dayes preaching twice every Sabbath though sixty seven yeares of age he rose to his study Winter and Summer at two a clocke in the morning he evidently fore-saw and fore-told all those plagues which England afterwards felt under Queen Marie and fore told concerning himselfe that his preaching of the Gospell would cost him his life Sâ—ephen Cranmeâ— and that Winchester was kept in the Tower for the same purpose which afterwards proved so In the beginning of Queâ—n Maries Reign he was sent for up by a Pursuivant whereof he had notice six houres before he came to his house yet insteâ—d of flying he prepared himselfe for his journey and when the Pursuivant came he said to him My friend you are welcome I goe as willingly to London to give an account of my Faith as ever I went to any place in the world The Pursuivant having delivered his Letter told him that he was commanded not to stay for him and so immediately departed but Latimer hasted after to London and as he rode through Smithfield he said That Smithfield had groaned for him a long time Coming before the Councill after many mocks scorns he was sent to the Tower where the Lord gave him such a valiant spirit that he did not onely bear the terriblenesse of imprisonment but derided and laughed to scorn the doings of his enemies This aged Father being kept in the cold winter without a fire he bad the Lievtenants man to tell his Master That if he did not looke better to him perchance he would deceive him the Lievtenant thinking that he intendâ—d to make an escape charged him with his words to whom he answerâ—d You thinke I should burn but except you let me have a firâ— I shall deceiv your expectation for I am here like to starve with cold From thence he was carried to Oxford with Cranmer and Ridley where they spent their time in brotherly conference fervent prayer and fruitfull writing yea many times he continued so long in fervent prayer that he was not able to get up without helpe Three things he more especially prayed for First That as God had appointed him to be a Preacher of his Word so that he would give him grace to stand to his Doctrine that he might give his hearts blood for the same Secondly that God of his mercy would restore his Gosâ—pell to England once againe once againe which he often inculcated in his prayer and that with so much ardor as though he had seen God before him and spoken to him face to face Thirdly that the Lord would preserve Queen Elizabeth and make her a comfort to this comfortlesse Realm of England The Lord most graciously answering all thosâ— his requests When he came to the stake he lift up his eyes with an amiable and comfortable countenance saying Fidelis est Deus c. God is faithfull who will not suffer us to be tempted above that which we are able c. As he was burning his blood ran out of his heart in such abundance as if all the blood in his body had been gathered thither to the great astonishment of the beholders according to his former râ—quest That he might be so happy as to shed his hearts blood for the Truth The other two requests we have found and yet have the benefit When the fire was first kindled he cryed O Father of heaven receive my soule and so receiving the flame and as it were embracing of it having stroaked his face with his hands and bathed them a little in the fire he soone died with very little pain or non at all Anno Christi 1555. Though Latimer was in his heedlesse youth A diviator and abandon'd truth Yet heaven having blest him with a riper age At last he banish'd his too forward rage And from a wandring Commet he became A blazing starre and blush'd not to proclaime Against his former Errours which had spread Upon his heart and almost struck it dead He sought the way of truth and seeking found A better Anchor and a firmer ground Where on he fixt his thoughts and would not be Remov'd by arguments or Tyrannie Thus our brave Latimer became a terrour To Papists and an enemy to errour Though he at first most wilfully deny'd The truth yet for the truth at last he dy'd The Life and Death of John Philpot who died Anno Christi 1555. JOhn Philpot was a Knights son and born in
rage was spent Ye did him good though with an ill intent Pricke up your eares and hâ—are this fatall tone Those fires which made him screek wil make you groâ— The Life and Death of Conrade Pellican who dyed Anno Christi 1556. COnrade Pellican was born at Rubeac in Swedeland Anno 1478. and brought up in learning by his Parents at thirteen yeeres of age he went to Heidleberg after sixteen moneths study there he returned home where he entered into a Monastery yet afterwards returned to Heidleberg and from thence to Tubinge where he studied the Liberall Arts and was much admired for his quick wit he studied also School-Divinity and Cosmography wherein he profited exceedingly he tooke very great pains in the study of Hebrew and at Basil was made Doctor in Divinity afterwards the Popes Legat took him with him towards Rome being affected with his learning but falling sick of a Fever by the way he returned to Basil. Whilst he thus continued a Fryar he was of great esteeme amongst them because of his learning integrity but it pleased God at last that by reading Luthers bookes and conference with learned and godly men he began to dis-relish the Popish Errors and so far to declare his dislike of them that he was much hated and persecuted for a Lutheran but about the same time the Senate of Basil chose him Lecturer in Divinity in that City togeâ—her with Oecolampadius where he began first with reading upon Genesis then on Proverbs and Ecclesiastes An. Christi 1526. he was by the meanes of Zuinglius sent for to Tygure and being come was most courteously entertained by him there he laid downe his Monks Coul and married a wife by whom he had a son which he named Samuel being then preaching upon the history of Samuel that wife dying he married againe but had no children by his second wife he was present at the Disputation at Bern about Religion after Zuinglius his death there were chosen into his room Henry Bullinger and Theodor Bibliander who was an excellent Linguist and began to read upon Iâ—aie to the great astonishment of his hearers for that he was not above 23. yeers of age Pellican â— at the earnest request oâ— learned men Printed all his Lectures and Annotations which were upon the whole Bible excepting onely the Revelations which portion of Scripture he not intending to write upon caused the Commetaâ—y of Sebastian Meyter upon it to be bound with his to make the worke compleat He translated many bookes out of Hebrew which were printed by Robert Stevens and having been Hebrew Professor at Tygure for the space of thirty yeers wherein he was most acceptable to all not onâ—ly in regard of his excellent learning and indefatigable painâ— but also in regard of his sweet and holy Conversation At lasâ— falling into the pain of the stone other diseases he departed this life upon the day of Christs Resurrection 1556. of his Age 78. After our Pellican had wandred long In the worlds wide-wildernesse he grew so strong In grace and goodnesse that he soon became An ample Subject for the mouth of Fame He was admir'd by all that lov'd to be Serious proficients in Divinity He lives he lives although his body lyes Inshrin'd by earth True virtue never dyes The Life and Death of Bugenhagius who died Anno Christi 1558. IOhn Bugenhagius was born at Iulinum in Pomerania Anâ—â— christi 1485. His Parents were of the rank of Senators who bred him up carefully in Learning and sent him to the University of Grypswald where he profited in the study of the Arts and the Greek tongue Being twenty years old he taught School at Trepta and by his learning and diligence he made the School famous and had many Scholaâ—â— to whom also he red daily some portion of Scripture and pâ—â—yed with themâ— and meeting with Erasmus his booke againe the â—â—strâ—onicall carriage of the Fryarâ— the Idolatry of the times he gat so much light thereby that he was stirred up to instruct others therein and for that end in his Schoole he read Matthew the Epistles to Timothy and the Pâ—alms to which he added Catechising and also expounded the Creed and thâ— ten Commandements unto which exercises many â—entlemen Citizens and Priests resorted from the Schoole he was called to preach in the Church and was admitted into the Colledge of Presbyters many resorted to his Sermons of all ranks and his fame spred abroad insomuch as Bogeslauâ— the Prince of that Country employed him in writing an History of the same aud â—urnished him with mony books and records for the enabling of him thereto which History he compleated in two yeeres with much judgement and integrity Anno Christi 1520. one of the Citizens of Trepâ—a having Luthers booke of the Babylonish Captivitie sent him he gave it to Bugenhagius as he was at dinner with his Collegues who looking over some leaves of it told them that many Hereticks had disqâ—ieted the peace of the Church since Christs time yet there was never a more pestilent Hereticke then the Author of that book but after some few dayes having read it with more diligence and attention he made this publick Recantation before them all What shall I say of Luther All the world hath been blinde and in cimmeâ—ian darknesse onely this one man hath found out the Truth And further disputing of those questions with them he brought most of his Collegues to be of his judgement therein Hereupon Bugenhagius read Lutheâ—'s other Works diligently whereby he learned the difference between the Law and the Gospell Justification by Faith c. and taught these things also to his Hearers But the Divell envying the successe of the Gospell stirred up the Bishop to persecute the professours of it some of which he cast into Prison and caused others to flye away insomuch as Bugenhagius also being not safe and desirous to be acquainted and to confer with Luther went to Wittembourg Anno christi 1521. and of his 〈◊〉 36. and came thither a little before Luther's going to thâ— Diet at Worms In whose absence he opposed â—arolostadius who would have all Magistrates to rule by the Judicialâ— of Moses and Images to be cast out of Churches Upon Luther's return out of his Pathmos he was chosen Pastor of the Church of Wittembourg which he taught and governed with much felicity and in many changes of affairs for the space of thirty six years never leaving his station neitheâ— for War nor Pestilence and when he was profered Richeâ— and Preferment both in Denmark and Pomeron yet he would never leave his Charge though he lived but poorly in itâ— Anno christi 1522. he was sent for to Hamburg where hâ— prescribed to them a forme both of Doctrine Ceremonieâ— and Calling of Ministers where he erected a Schoole alsoâ— which afterwards grew very famous and Anno christi 1530 being sent for to Lubec he prescribed to them also an order both for Preaching and Discipline
and set up a Schoolâ— there also Anno christi 1537. he was sent for by Christiâ—â— King of Denmarke to reform Religion in his Dominionâ— at which time he set forth a Booke about the Ordination of Ministers There also instead of the seven Bishops of Denmarke he setled seven Superintendents to Ordain Ministers and to see to the Government of the Church whom he ordained in the presence of the King and the Senate in the chief Church of Hafnia He set up Lectures also in that University and Ordained Ministers for the Churches of Denmark and Norway of which there were foure and twenty thousand Anno christi 1542. he was employed by the elector of Saxonie to Reform the Churches in the Dukedome of Brunswick the year following the Senate of Hilvesia sent for him to Reform their Churches where he with Corvinus and Henry Winckle wrote them a Form of Ordination and Ordained six Pastors for their six Congregations Anno christi 1533. he proceeded Doctor at thâ— instigation of Ioh. Friderick Elector of Saxonie Afterwards in the Wars of Germanie for Religion Wâ—ttenberg was besieged and Bugenhagius being grown old he met with many troubles yet would he never flye but by daily prayer to God he much cheared up himself considering that in so great tempests the poor Ship of Christ's Church was not swallowed up and devoured The Controversies and Quarrels which sprung up in the Church were the greatest grief to him Being grown old and his strength so decayed that he could no longer Preach he yet resorted daily to Church where he poured forth fervent Prayers both for himself and the afflicted condition of the Church of God at that time Afterwards falling sick though without much pain he continued instant in prayer and holy conference with his friends And drawing near to his end he often repeated This is life eternall to know Thee the onely true God and him whom thou hast sent Iesus Christ and so quietly departed in the Lord Anno christi 1558. and of his Age 73. He was a faithfull Pastor mercifull to the poor severe and stout in reproof an earnest defendour of the Truth against Errors ardent in Prayer c. He joyned with Luther in the Translation of the Bible which being finished every year upon that day he invited his friends and made a Feast which he called The Feast of the Translation of the Bible When the Cimmerian darknesse had forsooke Brave Bugenhagius he rous'd up and tooke Truth by the hand and from a Foe he turn'd A friend to Luther though at first he spurn'd Against his writings yet at last his brest Repented what he rashly had exprest Then like a Starre he shin'd and was content To teach himselfeâ— and others to repent PHILIPPVS MELANTHON The Life and Death of Phillip Melancthon â— IN the year of grace 1497. Philippus Melancthon that vigilant Watchman for the generall good of the Church was borne at Bretta a Towne situate in the Lower Palatinate and onely famous for the birth of so excellent a man His Parents although they were not endewed with any store of earthly treasures yet they were rich in grace both of them being godly wise vertuous grave and honest his Father attaining to no greater advancement then to be chief Gentleman of Armes unto Philippus and Rupertus two German Princes In his youth he was committed unto the tuition of Iohannes Aungarus a man excellently qualified of whom he learned the Latin tongue and afterwards instructed in the knowledge of the Greek by Georgius Simlerus who afterwards became a publicke professor of the Civill Law concerning whom Melancthon used to speak with great reverence and respect both for his eminent gifts and also for that singular care which he had over him being a child and delivered unto him to be instructed in the knowledg of the â—ame tongues Being by these two furnished in some measure with the knowledge of those tongues and being not yet fully twelve yeers old a sufficient testimony of his future worth he was sent to the University of Heidelberge where he studied Poetry and proved also in short time an excellent Historian and he being but a child himselfe he taught the children of the Grave of Lionsten by which means notice being taken of the excellency of his parts he was graced in the same University by a generall consent with the title of Bachilor of Arts and which is also most remarkable in his youth here he frequented the Company of those which were observed to be the greatest and best learned men and especially he used the familiarity of Spangelus a Doctor of Divinity a man learned discreet and wise having continued here for the space of three yeers he went unto Tubinga in the yeer 1512. where he became an Auditor unto Brafficanus and Bebelius the lavrell Poets of those parts and also unto Iohannes Stoflerus an excellent Mathematician and professor of those Arts in that Academie and also Franciscus Stadianus then Logick Lecturer all of them being famous for their excellent endowments and for the bettering of his understanding in Divinity and increased of his knowledge therein he repaired unto Doctor Lempus esteemed the soundest and most judicius in that place concerning whom he used to say that he would paint that horrid Monster of Transubstantiation on a table and present it publickly unto his Auditors and that he could not but much admire and wonder at the insulsitie and blockishnesse of the man here he was also an Auditor unto his Master Simlerus professing the civill Law wherein he came unto sound knowledge as is made apparent by his writings and having attained unto a singular perfection in the Arts and Tongus he was in this University advanced unto the degree of Master of Arts or Doctor of Philosophy in the yeer 1513. and in the seventeenth yeer of his age after this dignity conferred on him he remained four yeers in the Academie where he commented on Virgil and Terâ—nce read the Rhetorick History Lecture with singular judgment with the great approbation and applause of his Auditors About this time there being great tumults raised in Saxonie concerning religion grounded on the doctrine taught by Luther he was called by the Duke of Saxonie God so disposing by his providence unto Wittenberge in the yeer 1518. and in the 22. yeer of his age and in the tenth yeer of Luthers residence in the same place to be a faithfull assistant unto him for the advancing of the Gospell and in this may that City justly glory that it hath been blessed with the labours of these two undaunted Champions whoâ—e actions can hardly be parraleld by any living either in the auncient or in these moderne times At his departure from Tubinga his Master Simlerus said that his going away was to be much lamented of the whole City and forthwith added Quotquot ibi essent docti homines non esse tam doctos ut intelligerent quanta esseâ— doctrina ejus qui
Reformation in the Churches he was informed by Melancthon that Ecclesiasticall government did consist 1. In the soundnesse and puritie of Doctrine 2. In the lawfull use of the Sacraments 3. In a conservation of the Minister of the Gospell and in obedience towards the Pastors of the Churches 4. In the preservation of an honest and godly Discipline which was to be upheld by an Ecclesiasticall jurisdiction 5. In the upholding of Schooles 6. In supplying such persons as are imployed in weightie matters with sufficient necessaries Which points he caused to be dispersed amongst the Churches but they wrought little or no Reformation the yeer following Germanie was oppressed with civill Warres which when it was greatly lamented by Melancthon some out of malice misinterpreting his words accused him unto the Emperour as one who laboured to hinder his proceedings in the Reformation of Religion for which cause the Emperour intended his death but he was defended and delivered by the intreaty of Mauritius the Prince Elector who possessed the Emperour with a contrary opinion Not long after it happened that there were great preparations for the Councill of Trent and safe going and returning being concluded on Melancthon was sent with the Letters of the foresaid Mauritius and taking Norimberge in his way he was commanded to stay there untill he received an answer concerning that faith which was generally to be embraced of all the Churches During his aboad at Noremberge he heard the newes of the Expedition of Mauritius against the Emperor in regard of the Lantgrave of Hassia who was detained captive Wherefore Melancthon lefâ— Noremburge returned again to Wittemberge Many are of opinion that if he had been present at the said Councill and had been suffred to declare his mind freely amongst them he would have redified many of their judgements concerning matters of religion Being come unto Wittenberge he constantly went forward in his exercise of teaching and preaching the word of God untill he fell into an irrecoverable disease whereby his vitall spirits grew so feeble that he was made unfit for the performance of his pastorall office and weaknesse increasing every day more and more upon him he was constrained at the last to yeeld unto death and in the midst of many heavenly prayers he surrendred his soul unto him that gave it in the yeer of our Lord 1560. in the 63. yeere of hiâ— age and after that he had preached the space of 42. yeeres unto the inhabitants of Wettemberge Where he was buried with great sorrow and lamentation being laid side by side with Luther For his excellent gifts he was not onely reverenced by Protestant Divines then living but he also gained a singular approbation of such as were his professed enemies He was of a meane stature not exceeding the common sort of men his forehead smooth and high his haire thin his neck long his eyes beautifull and peircing he was broad breasted and in generall there was a proportionable agreement betwixt all the parts of his body in his youth he stammered something in his speech but reaching unâ—o a maturity of age he so corrected that infirmity that it gave no offence unto his Auditors the learned treatises which he left unto the Church whose reformation both in doctrine and discipline he greatly laboured for in his life are here inserted Tome 1. 1. Commentaries on Genesis 2. Explications on some Psalms 3. Vpon the Proverbs Annotations on 4. Matthew 5. Iohn 6. 1 Corinthians 7. An Apologie for Luther against the Paritians 8. Anabaptistists 9. Sentences of Fathers 10. Of the qualification of Princes 11. Of the tree of consanguinity Tome 2. 1. A Comment on Paul to the Romans 2. School-notes on the Colossians 3. Common places of Divinity Tome 3. 1. A confession of Faith 2. A Catechisme 3. A method of Preaching 4. Theologicall Disputations 5. Of Vowes 6. Of the doctrine of the reformed Church 7. An Epistle to John Earle of Widae Tome 4. 1. Philosophicall workes 2. Commentaries on Aristot. Ethicks 3. Politicks 4. An Epitome of Morall Phylosophy Tome 5. 1. A Latin Grammer 2. A Greeke gram 3. Logicke 4. Rhetoricke 5. Enarrations on Hesiods workes 6. Arithmaticke 7. Epigrams These were printed by Hervagius but there are divers others set forth by Christopher Pezelius As 1. An admonition to those that read the Alcaron 2. A defence for the marriage of Priests 3. Commentaries on Daniel 4. A discourse on the Nicene Creed 5. Luthers Life and Death 6. Schoolâ—-notes on Cicero his Epistles 7. Translations of Demosthenes and Plutarch 8. Greeke and Latine Epigrams 9. Two Tomes of Epistles 10. Carion his Cronologie â—nlarged Would thy ingenious Fancy soare and flye Beyond the pitch of moderne Poesye Or wouldest thou learne to charme the conquerd eare With Reth'riks oyly Magik wouldest thou heareâ— The Majesty of language wouldest thou pry Into the Bowels of Philosophy Morall or Naturall Or wouldest thou sound The holy depth and touch the unfathom'd ground Of deepe Theology Nay wouldest thou need The Sisteme of all excellence and feed Thy empty soule with learning's full perfection Goe search Melancthons Tomes by whose direction Thou shalt be led to Fame if his rare story Can make thee emulous of so great a glory The Life and Death of John a Lasco who died Anno Christi 1560. IOhn Lascus was born of a noble family in Poland and brought up in learning afterwards travelling to Tygure in Helvetia he was by Zuinglius perswaded to betake himselfe to the study of Divinity and when he might have been preferred to great honor in his owne Country such was his love to Christ and his Church and such his hatred to Popery that he chose with Moses to suffer affliction with the people of God rather then to live in worldly honor and peace amongst his friends coming into Frisland Anno Christi 1542. he was called to be a Pastor at Embden where he fed and ruled his flock with great diligence the yeere after he was sent for by Ann the widdow of Count Oldenburg to reform the Churches in East-Frisland and the next yeer after by Albert Duke of Prussia but when he agreed not with him in judgement about the Lords Supper the worke remained unperfected about that time the Emerour persecuted the Protestants he was sent for by King Edward the sixth upon Cranmers motion into England where he gathered Preached unto and governed the Dutch-Church which remain's to this day In the dayes of Queen Mary he obtained leave to return beyond-Sea and went with a good part of his Congregation into Denmarke but there he found but cold entertainment by reason of his differing from them about the Lords Supper the Churches of Saxonie also rejected them not suffering them to live amongst them upon the like reason at length that poore Congregation found entertainment in Frisland under the Lady Anne Oldenburg and setled at Embdem Anno Christi 1555. he went thence to Francford upon Main where with the consent of
the Senate he gathered a Church of strangers especially out of Belgia from thence he wrote a Letter to the King of Poland and his Council vindicating his Doctrin from some aspersions cast upon it by his adversaries many enemies also rose up against him and his Congregation for differing from them about Christ's presence in the Sacrament especially oâ—e Westphalus who wrote bitterly against them calling them Zuinglians and affirming that all those which had suffered about that point in Belgia England or Francâ— were the Divel's Martyrs At last Lascus returning into his own Country from which he had been absent twenty years there he found God's harvest to be great and the labourers to be very few His coming was very unwelcome to the Popish Clergy who sought by all meanes to destroy him or to get him banished and therefore they accused him to the King for an Hereticke beseeching him not to suffer him to stay in the Kingdome to whom the King answered That though they pronounced him an Hereticke yet the Sâ—ates of the Kingdome did not so esteeme him and that he was ready to clear himselfe from those aspersions When they thus prevailed not they cast abroad reproaches and all manner of lyes as if he would stir up a civill War in the Kingdome but it pleased God when he had spent a little time in instructing his friends that he sickned and dyed anno christi 1569. He was of an excellent wit and judgement and tooke much paines to have composed that difference in the Churches about Christ's presence in the Sacrament though it succeeded not The King of Poland had him in such esteem that he made use of his advice and help in many great and difficult businesses Wisdome and goodnesse both conjoyn'd To beautifâ—e Alascos mind He was laborious to fulfill And prosecute his makers will His heart was proud to undertake To doe or suffer for Gods sake Therefore no question but hée 's blest And rests in peace and endlesse rest AVGVSTINVS MARLORATVS The Life and Death of Augustine Marlorat AVgustine Marlorat was born in the Dukedome of Lorrain anno christi 1506. His Parents dyed whil'st he was young and his kindred gaping after his estate thrust him at eight years of age into a Monastery of Augustine Fryers by which meanes God so ordering of it he was brought up in learning and having studied the body of Divinity in France came to the University of Lasanna which is a famous Towne of the Lords and States of the Countrey of Bern scituated hard by the Lake of Lemon and is a place famous for Divinity where he profited much in learned and came to the knowledge of the Truth and from thence he was chosen to be Pastor at Vivia and from thence he was sent for to Rottomag where he behaved himselfe with much piety and wisdome Anno Christi 1561. he was present at the conference at Posiah between the Cardinall of Lorrain and Theodore Beza where he acquitted himselfe with much courage The year following when the Civil Wars brakâ— forth in France the City of Rotomag was besieged and after a hard siege was taken where Marlorat and foure other chiefe Citizens by the malice of Mont-Morenzie and Francis Duke of Guize were hanged though some of his adversaries would have saved him This was done the thirtieth of October anno chris 1562. and of his Age six and fifty whose Workes being ever living Monuments are preserved to the benefit of the Church of God and are here set down 1. A Catholicke and Ecclesiasticall Exposition of the new Testament 2. An Exposition upon Genesis 3. An Exposition on the Psalmes of David 4. An Exposition upon the Prophecie of Jsaiah 5. His Thesaurus or Treasure-house of the whole Canonicall Scripture digested into common places Also the hard Phrases Alphabetically Printed which usully are met withall in the Scriptures by the care and industry of William Feugerius of Rohan professor of Divinity to whom Marlorat left this Worke being not altogether perfected at the time of his Dissolution Renowned Marlorat did breath to give A breath to worth which worth shall make him live Uertue shall be his Heravl'd and his name Shall stand recorded in roules of fame The trumpet of his praise shall sound the bolder Because true vertue neede crave no upholder The Life and Death of Amsdorfius who died Anno Christi 1563. NIcolas Amsdorfius was born in Misnia of noble Parents Anno Christi 1483. and brought up in learning From School he went to the University of Wittenberge about that time that Luther began to preach against Indulgence in Anno Christi 1504. he Commensed Master of Arts and aftewards Licentiary in Divinity he embraced the Truth â—hat brake forth in those times and preached it to others he accompanied Luther to Worms in the time of Luthers recesse into his Pathmos he with Melancthon and Iustus Ionas being sent to by the Elector of Saxonie for their judgement about the Masse declared that it was an horrible profanation of the Lords Supper whence ensued the abolishing of it out of all Churches in Wittenberg he wrote also that the Pope was Antichrist Anno Christ 1524. Luther being sent for to Magdenburg he went thither and having preached to them he commended to them and afterwards sent Amsdorfius to gather and instruct the Churches there who faithfully laboured eighteen yeeres in that place Anno Christi 1541. he was sent by the Elector of Saxonie to govern the Church at Naumberg in the Palatinate where also the yeere after he was ordained Bishop by Luther three other Pastors also imposing of their hands upon him but six yeers after he was driven away from thence by the Emperor Charles the fifth whence he fled to Magdenberg and was there during the siege of it Anno Christi 1550. and the yeere after George Major having Published this propositioâ— That good Works were necessary to Salvation Amsdorfius in heat of contention wrote That good Works were hurtfull and dangerous to Salvation he died about the four score and eight yeer of his age Anno Christi 1563. Amsdorfius was the life of worth his dayes Were fil'd with trouble yet perpetuall praise Waited upon him for he did oppose The Errours of the Pope in spight of those That were his enemies he did maintaine The Pope was Antichrist the Masse prophane He fear'd them not but boldly did professe The truth and now is Crown'd with happinesse WOLFGANGVS MVSCVLVS The Life and Death of Wolfangus Musculus IN the yeer of our Lord God 1497. and on the sixt of the Ides of September a day much observed by our Ancestors for the birth of the Virgin Mary and also for the destruction of Ierusalem by Titus the son of Vespasian was Wolfangâ—â— Musculus that faithfull servant of Christ born at Dusa a little towne situate in Litharingia famous onely for the aboundance of Salt-pits wherewith it is richly stored His father was called Antonius Musculus who by his profession was
the Emperour had promulgated a book written concerning Religion called the Interim which he would have to be embraced and confirmed by the States and Cities of the Emprie which when he perceived that it was received by the Senate first he publikly opposed it in the Church and exhorted them to the constant profession of their former doctrine and secondly he told them that he must be compelled to depart from them in case they did refuse his motion but he perceiving no hopes of altering their opinions after that he had taken his supper he left the City being accompanied onely with one Citizen committing his wife and eight children which he left behind him unto the protection of the Almighty and being without the Ports he changâ—d his hablit least through the same he might be discovered by his enemies And having turned a Wagon he went toward Tiâ—urum where he remained a few dayes with Bullinger and from thence he departed and went unto Basil unto Iohanner Hervagius his wife followed immediatly after him not knowing where to find him unlesse at Basil wherefore when she came to Constance for her assuâ—aÌ„ce she sent letters by a trusty friend whom she desired to certifie her husband of her aboade at Constance the messenger finding Musculus at Basil delivered the letters and forthwith returned unto Constance where he found his wife and children upon the Lords day following he preached twice in the City taking for hiâ— text those words in Iohn the 6. ver 66. From that time many of the Disciples went back and walked no more with him Then said Iesus unto the twelve I will yet also goe away c. from which place of Scripture he shewed unto them how greatly those Cities did offend which did fall from the truth of Christ for the favour of mâ—n and withall he earnestly exhorted the people of Constance not to follow the examples of such but constantly to adhaere unto the truth taught by Christ in his Word and this was the last Sermon that was Preached in the peaceable state of the Commonwealth for the day following the Spanish Forces under the conduct of Alfonsus Vives beleagured the City during the Siedge by the perswasion of Ambrosius Blavrerus a reverend Pastor Musculuâ— with his wife and children were conveyed out of the City with safety and they escaped the fury of the enemies intending to goe for Tigurum but by reason of sicknesse which seized on his wife he was compelled to remain at Sangallum after her recovery he went unto Tigurum where he was joyfully received of the Inhabitants with whom he continued six months before he was called to performe his Ministeriall function in which vacancy he was called by Thomas Cranmer Archbishop of Canterbury into England but in regard of his owne age as unfit for travell and in respect of the weaknesse of his wife and the many children which he had he modestly refused Not long after the Inhabitants of Berne were destitute of a Divinity Lecturer for their Schooles wherefore he was called by the Senate unto that profession which indeed was most welcome unto him partly for the excellency of that Church and Commonwealth and partly for the renewing of his acquaintance with his old friend Iohannes Hallerus He entred upon this Lecture in the year 1549. and constantly continued in it for the space of fourteen years to the exceeding benefit of the Church of Christ opening in that space unto his Auditours almost the whole Bible He naturally detested Contraversies and would write his minde without the injury or contempt of others so that his Workes were opposed by no man in publicke during his life onely those two Sermons excepted which he Preached before the Princes at Wormes which were opposed by Cochlaeus The great love which he carried towards the Inhabitants of Berne appeareth in this that he refused great honour and ample Revenues which were profered unto him during his Lectureship at Berne for he was thrice called into England seconded with large rewards also the Inhabitants of Auspurge having againe obtained their former liberty amongst other banished Ministers they first recalled Musculus He was againe desired by the Inhabitants of Strasburge invited by Otho Henricus and Fredericus Prince Elector Palatine and by the Land grave of Hassia many times but he modestly refused all these though honourable calings intending to performe his best service unto the end of his dayes unto that City who had shewed and vouchsafed him such kindnesse in his greatest extremity which indeed was truly performed Not long before his death he was sickly partly by reason of his years his body being spent with infinite cares and labours partly by reason of a vehement cold which did much afflict him whereby he gathered that he was to leave that house of clay and therefore setting all other things aside he entred into a heavenly meditation of death the sum of which he hath left unto the world being written by himselfe before his death Nil super est vitae frigus praecordia captat Sed in Christe mihi vita parennis ad es Quid crepidas anima ad sedes abitura quietis En tibi ductor adest Angelus ille tuus Lingua domum hanc miseram nunc in sua fata ruentem Quam tibi fida Dei dextera restituet Peccasti scio sed Christus ardentibus in se Peccata expurgaâ—sanguinâ— cuncta suo Horribilis mors est fateor sed proxima vita est Ad quam te Christi gratia câ—rta vocat Praesto est de Satana peccaâ—a est morte triumphâ—s Christus ad hunc igitur lâ—â—a alacrisque migra This life is done cold Death doth summon me A life eternall I expect from thée My Saviour Christ why dost thou fear my Dove He will conduct thée to his throne above Forsake this body this corrupted creature Thy God will change it to a better nature Dost thou abound with sin I do confesse That thou art guilty and dost oft transgresse But Christ his blood doth wash and cleanse all those That can themselves in him by Faith repose Doth Death appeare an object full of horror Both ugly ghastly and not wanting terror I do confesse it but that life againe Which followes death doth take away that paine Unto which life we called are by Christ Then do no longer O my soule resist But yéeld thou with all chéerfulnesse to dwell With him triumphing or'e Death Sin and Hell Afterwards the strength of his sicknesse did increase by the addition of an Ague wherby he was brought so weak that he was not able to sit up right in his bed wherefore he sâ—nt unto Master Iohannes Allerus and other Ministers unto whom he declared the Faith which he dyed in and withall committed the care of his Wife and Children unto thâ—m who told him that they would not bâ— deficient in any thing wherein they might shew themselves beneficiall and helpfull unto them As he was a man endewed with an
extraordiry patience in his life so he also testified the same during his sicknesse for he 〈◊〉 that afflâ—â—â—ion with admired patience still calling upon and praying unto almighty God relying onely upon him as appeared by that Speech of his unto his Son who standing by his Bed-side weeping he turned to him and told him that he need not doubt of his Fathers Faith which indeed were the last words which he uttered and not long after he yeelded up his soule with all quietnesse into the hands of God in the year of Christ 1563. and in the sixty six year of his age and was buried at Berne He was a man learned and grave affable and courteous sparing in hiâ— dyet he was something tall in stature having a body straight a face red eyes clear and quick-sighted in generall there was a proportionable agreement betwixt all his parts His Works are these 1. Commentaries on Genesis 2. Psalmes 3. Matthew 4. Iohn 5. Romans 6. Corinthians 7. Philippians 8. Colossians 9. Thessalonians 10. 1 Timothy 11. His common places 12. Vpon the Commandements 13. Of Oathes 14. Of the Germane Wars Translations of Greek Authors 1. Commentaries of Chrysostome on Sainâ— Pauls Epistles 2. Epistles of Saint Basil. 3. Ethicks of Basil. 4. Of solitary life 5. Homilies 6. School-notes of Basil on the Psalter 7. Thirty nine Epistles of Cyril 8. A Declaration of the twelue Anathemos in the Ephesnick Councill 9. Opinions of Nestorius conâ—iâ—ed 10. Synopsis of the Scriptures out of Athanaâ—iuâ— 11. 140. questions out of the old and new Testament 12. A Synopsis of Theodore Bishop of Tyre Ecclesiastiâ—all Histories 1. Ten bookes of Eusebius of Ecclesiasticall affaires 2. Five â—ookes of Eusebius of the life of Constantine 3. Eight bookes of Socrates 4. Nine bookes of Zozomen 5. Two bookes of Theodore 6. Six of Evagrâ—us 7. Five of Polybius 'T was neither fear nor danger could estrange Undaunted Musculus or make him change His resolutions nothing could prevaile Against the bulwarkes of his Fort or scale His wel arm'd thought he would in spight of those That were so barbarous to be his Foes â— Proclaim the Truth and would not let it rest Untill discover'd in his serious brestâ— He liv'd Gods faithfull Factor here below To send him souls to heav'n and to bestow That talent he had gave him that he might When 's Master call'd cast his accounts aright The Life and Death of Hyperius who dyed Anno Christi 1564. ANdreas Gerardus Hyperius was born at Ipres in Flanders Anno Christi 1511. his Father was a Counsellour who brought him up carefully in learning At 13. years old he travelled through the Islands of Flanders and learned the French tongue afterwards he went to Paris where he studied in that University the Arts for three years and then went home to visit his friends but after a short stay he returned to Paris and studied Divinity and Physick and every year in the vacation time he traveled abroad into France so that in three years he had seen most part of France and part of Italy and visited the chiefest Universities in both then he went to Lovain and into most parts of the lower Germany â— and at twenty six years old he traveled into upper Germanie then he sailed into England where faling into the company of Charles Montjoy Baron Montjoy's Son he tooke such affection to him that he desired him to live with him where he lived four years with much content and then he visited Cambridge and the Lord Cromwel being beheaded about that time and the six Articles pressed with rigor he thought of returning into his own Countrey fiâ—st visiting Oxford and from thence he went to London and so sailed to Antwarp and from thence he went home but hearing the fame of the University of Argentine and of Bucer there he travelled thither also but in the way he went to Marpurg where Noviomagus was Divinity-professor who importuned him to stay there and to give some taste of his learning and to be his assistant when he had prevailed with him he shortly after dying Hyperius was chosen in his room and after two yeers stay he married a wife one Catharine Orthia with whom he lived with much comfort and had by her six sons and four daughters he taught there with much diligence and faithfulnesse 22. yeers he directed young students in the composing of their Sermons and heard them first Preach in private that if any thing were amisse either in their voyce or gesture he might rectifie them in it he was never idle but alwayes either writing reading or meditating so that he much weakned his body thereby at last falling sick of a Fever he gave diverse instructions to his wife for the education of his children and to his children whom he exhorted to serve God and to obey their mother and when his friends visited him he requested them to bear witness That in that Faith wherin he had lived and which he had taught he now dyed and so continued making a profession of the same till he yeelded up his spirit unto God being about 53. yeers old Anno Christi 1564. having been Pastor of the Church and professor in the University 22. yeers Studious Hyperius alwayes lov'd to be In consultation with Divinity He loâ—'d the truth and alwayes striv'd to fly Upon the wings of true sollidity Religion was his guide he alwayes stood Firmely obedient unto what was good IOHANNES CALVINVS The Life and Death of John Calvin IN the yeer of our Lord God 1509. this reverend and faithfull Minister of Jesus Christ Iohn Calvin was born at Noviodunum a famous towne fituate in that part of Aquitane which borders upon Picardy he may well be termed the Luster of the French Nation for his excellent endewments of learning and piety he was descended from vertuous Parents blessed onely with a competency of worldly riches sufficient to preserve an honest report amongst their neighbours their greatest blessing appeared in the gift of this gratious infant His Fathers name was Gerard Calvin â— man much esteemed of the Nobility inhabiâ—ing Aquitane because he was a singular Politician approving his judgment and advice touching the administration of the Common-wealth desiring his presence wheâ—soever that they consulted about serious affairs and important matters of State whereby it came to passe that his son Calvin was brought up in his youth with the sons of the eminentest persons in that Country His mother was called Ioanna Franca These children he accompanied unto Paris for the increasing of his learning where he had Maturinus Corderius for his Tutor a man much reverenced for his internall and externall qualities and esteemed the best for the instruction and bringing up of youth within the Relme of France The reason why his father brought him up in learning was because he perceived a voluntary inclination in his sonne thereunto which appeared two manner of wayes first because in his youth he was religiously given and secondly because it
and the King was so enraged by reason of certain writings opposing the Masse which were scattered up and down the Câ—ty and fastned unto the door of his Bed chamber that aftâ—â— publick Prayers he commanded at the which he himselfâ— was present together with his three Sonnes being barâ—-headed and holding a burning Torch for expiations sake eight persons supposing to be guilty of that act to be burned alive and in the presence of the People he bound himsâ—lfe with a solemn Oath that he would not spare his own châ—â—dren â—f he should but know that they were infected with that most horrible and damned heresie Calvin beholding the miserable state and condition of things resolved to leave France revealing his intent unto an intimate friend of his with whom he was formerly acquainted during his residence with the Queen of Navarre Who out of his singular affection unto Calvin promised to accompany him in his journey wherefore they forthwith prepare for Basil committing their money unto the custody of one of their servants who being well horst and espying an opportunity answering his wicked intent leavs them to shift and to provide for themselves and doubtlesse they had been driven into great distresse had not the other servant furnished them with ten Crownes which he hâ—d about him by means whereof they came at length to Basil. Here he found Symones Grinaeus and Wolfangus Capito who received him with great joy where he continued and gave himself unto the study of the Hebrew tongu here he also set forth his Institutions a laborious learned worke and well worthy of the Author with a Preface most excellent unto the King of France which if he had read it had without doubt given a great wound unto the Popish religion bâ—t the sins of that King and of that Nation were so great and vengeance so near at hand that leave was not given unto them by the Lord to peruse the same Having set forth this book and in some sort performed his duty to his Country he left Basil and went into Italy to visit the daughter of the King of France a vertuous and a godly Princesse whom he there confirmed and strenthned in her religiouâ— course of life whereby she greatly affected him during the time of his life and also made a kind testiâ—â—â—tion of the same unto the world after his death Hence he returned againe into France with an intent to goe for Germany but in regard of the Wars passages were shut up that he could not travell and therefore he turned into Geâ—eva not thinking to mak any residence at all in that place but by the observation of future actions it is evident that he was guided thither by the hand of God into this City not long before his comming the Gospell of Christ was wonderfully brought and that by the labour and industry of two famous Divines viz. Gulielmus Farellus somtimeâ— Scholer unto Iacobus Stapulensis and Petrus Viretus whose labours were aboundently blessed by the Lord Calvin going for to visit these Genevan lights he was entertained by Farellus with a long discourse and thereby discovering the excellency of his parts desiring him to remaine at Geneva and to be an assâ—ant to him in that place for the advancing of the truth of Christ but when he saw that Calvin could not easily be drawn and perswaded thereunto and being a man of a bould spirit he said unto him after a vehement manner I pronounce unto thee in the name of the living and alpowerfull God that unlesse thou joyne with us in this worke of the Lord it will come to passe that he will curse thee as one that seeketh more his owne then the glory of Christ. Calvin being astonished with this terrible sentence and speech of Farellus he forthwith submitted himselfe unto the pleasure of the Presbytery and Magistrates by whose voyces and consent of the People he was not onely chosen to be a Preacher but was also designed to be their Divinity Lecturer and graced with the title of Doctor in the year 1536. which year also is remarkeable for that League concluded betwixt the Cities of Brene and â—eneva touching Divine Worship and also for the conversion of the Inhabitants of Lausanna unto Christ. The first thing which he attempted after his admission into this City was a more exact reformation in the Church for that cause drew a compendium of Christian Religion and forme of Doctrine unto which he laboured to have the Inhabitants to subscribe and to binde themselves by an Oath to abjure the supersticious Doctrine of Rome and to defend the same with their lives This motion was refused by many at the first yet not long after God so disposing even in the year 1537. the Senate and people of Geneva took their Oathes for the defence of the same The ground being thus laid there wanted not enemies and those bitter ones to oppose him in his proceedings for first the Anabaptists began to sow their erronious opinions in the hearts of many to the great detriment of the Church but these were so confuted by Calvin in publick disputation appointed by the Senate that scarcely any one of them appeared afterwards in the City The other disturber of the peace and happinesse of that Church was Petrus Caroli born at Sarbona who as she brought him forth an impudent Sophister so she cast him out againe as a more wicked haeretick being thence cast out he came to Geneva accompanied w th the spirit of the Divel when he saw himself to be sharply reproved of the Inhabitants he went unto their enâ—mies and from thence he returned unto Geneva againe intending to leave behind him some expressions of his worse then diabolicall opinions and for that cause he first began openly to accuse Farell Calvin and Viret of a misconceived opinion concerning the Trinity wherupon a Synad was called at Berne wherein that calumny of Petrus Caroli was condemned But that which strooke the greatest strok for the crushing of these hopefull beginnings was the intestine dissentions and seditions in the City who would not endure this new forme of Government these Farell and Calvin began first to correct with mild admonitions and when they saw that would not prevaile they used more severe and sharper reprehensions which many not brooking the City came to be divided and many renounced that Oath which they had formerly made in respect of w ch actions Calvin Farell with an undaunted courage openly protested that they could not lawfully administer the Sacrament of the Lords Supper unto them by reason of the disagreements amongst themselves and by reason of their alienation from all Ecclesiasticall discipline There also happened unto this another evill viz. a difference betwixt the Churches of Geneva and Berne about some ceremonies which because it could not presently be concluded on by the Synod at Lausanna but was referred unto another appointed at Tigurum the Commissioners unpatient of delay assembled the people together and
meane time granted unto them liberty of Conscience which when it came to the eares of Paulus III. Pope of Rome he sharply reproved the Emperour saying That he esteemed of Hereticks as highly as of Catholicks and that he seemed to thrust in his sickle into another mans harvest The Emperour answered That he was perswaded that his act was just And Calvin perceiving the truth of the Gospell to be deeply wounded bâ— these Letters he sharply reprovâ—d the boldnesse of the Pope In this year also there was a Convocation at Spire whereupon Calvin tooke occasion of writing his Booke intituled De necessitate reformandae Ecclesiae And in the same year also he refuted the Anabaptists and Libertines and that with such invincible arguments that none reading and observing hiâ— Worke can unlesse wittingly and willingly be deceived and seduced by them But the Queen of Navarre was greatly offended with that Worke of his against the Libertines because he had particularly reproved Quintinus and Pocquetus two Ringleaders of that Sect and not of small account with her Majesty Calvin being informed of this he so wisely and discreetly behaved himselfe that he gained againe the favour of the Queen and withall caused that impious and blasphemous Sect to be banished out of France who afterwards seated themselves in Amsterlodam the prime town in Holland In the year 1545. by the conspiracy of some wicked and evilly disposed persons the thresholds and posts of the doores in Geneva were done over with an oyntment so strongly composed of poyson that whosoever touched it death imediately followed and from this also proceeded a raging Pestilence in the City whereby an infinite number of soules were swept away this accident procured great envie unto Calvin from all places yet at the last some of the authors of this inhumane act were discovered and suffered worthy punishment for the same In this year also he laboured to remove the false opinion of Osiander concerning the Lords Supper out of the Church and also the errours of the Nicodemites and many other grosse opinions which hindred the growth of the truth of Christ. In which proceedings he was abundantly blessed by the Lord who never permitted his enemies to have their pleasure of him by taking away his life which they intended and more especially he shelterd him from the fury of Amedenus Perinnus a Captaine of great authority in the City but deprived for that fact of his Office These continued dissentions and defamations in the Church at Geneva were motives which drew Farellus and Viretus unto the same place who in the year 1548. delivered before the Senate an eloquent and learned Oration concerning the suppression of Sedition and the taking away of differences out of the Church The motion was approved of all and Perinnus having hopes thereby to attaine againe unto his former preserment consented thereunto but he soone discovered his wicked intent for he was no sooner graced with his former dignitie but he and many others burst forth into reproachfull speeches against Calvin and after a disgracefull manner calling his Dog by the name of Calvin others stile him by the name of Cain and some by reason of that violent and fierce hatred which they conceived against him they would absent themselves from the Communion and so draw downe a double vengeance on themselves In the midst of these evils which were of force to have caused him to have forsaken the City he constantly performed his Ministeriall office and at vacant times he inlightned Pauls Epistles with learned Commentaries He also most learnedly laid open and discovered the falsity and vanity fo Judiciary Astrology He comforted Beratius living as a banished man at Basil and also Bucer in England And this is also remarkable that notwithstanding the daily increaâ—ing of these contentions the Church did wonderfully florish in Geneva and also it injoyed some peace and quietnesse In the year 1551. for then there sprung up a company of factious fellowes who denied the priviledges of the City unto such as were banished for the truth and fled to that place for succour And being perswaded by Calvin in a Sermon Preached for that purpose to grant the priviledges of the City unto them he was well beaten for his paines as soon as he came out of the Pulpit These stirred up also another Tumult in the Temple of St. Gervas because the Minister refused to Baptize a child by the name of Balthazar Calvin not forgetting his late kindnesse received was contented with patience to let it passe In this year the City was also much troubled with that blasphemous heresie of Servetus who by the means of Calvin was apprehended and convicted but remaining obstinate in his opinion he was buâ—nd alive in the same City The cause of Servetus being as yet in hand one of the factious company called Berâ—lerius an impudent and wicked fellow whom the Presbitery had foâ—bidden to come unto the Lords table by reason of his ill lead life and excomunicated came unto the Senate and desired his absolution which he perswaded himselfe was sufficient Calvin earnestly opposes this action of the Senate declaring unto him that he ought to be a defender and maintainer and not a violator of holy good lawes yet Berlterius prevailed with the Senate and he granted unto him his absolutory letters Perinnus by the imitation of Bertlerius thought to take Calvin in a trap and either to raise a tumult against him if he would not obey the Senate or if he consented then no disanull the authority of the Presbitery Calvin being fore-admonished of this intent in his Sermon before the Communion in the presence of both of them he uttered these words with great fervency But I imitating Chrisostome will rather suffer my selfe to be slain then that this hand shall reach the holy things of the Lord unto such as are apparently known to be the contemners and despisers of him which wrought such an impression in them that they durst not presume to come unto the Lords table nay it is probable that he was at that time fearfull of his life for he Preached as if they never afterwards should have heard him again In this troublesom state the Church of Geneva continued unto the yeere 1555. wherein a conspiracy was happily discovered by which meanes most of the factious persons were put to death and banished the City By which example of Divine vengeance others were delivered and kept in awe and that Common-wealtâ— freed from many inconveniences yet in the same yeer the errours of Servetus seemed to revive againe and to be nourished by Matthaeus Gibraldus an excellent Lawyer who came unto Geneva and would willingly have been familiar with Calvin which he most willingly would have had embraced so as he would have consented with him in the Article of the Trinity The same year also yeelded much sorrow unto Calvin in regard that persecution raged in many places and especially in England which tooke away Hooper
dead but it could not be granted least it might raise a scandall on him amongst the Papists He was buried in the common Church-yard without any extraordinary pompe and without any Grave-stone laid over him for which cause Beza wrote these Funerall Verses Romae â—uentis terroâ— ille maximus Quem mortuum lugent boni horrescunt mali Ipsa a quo potuit virtutem discere virtus Cur adeo exiguo ignotoque in cespite clausus Calvinus lateat rogas Calvinum assidue comitata modestia vivum Hoc tumulo manibus condidit ipsa suis. O te beatum cespitem tanto hospite O cui invidere cuncta possunt marmorae How happens it that this is Calvins share To lye under this little unknowne pareâ— Is not this he who living did appeare Decaying Romes continued dread and feare Whose death the godly doth with sorrow fill And at whose name the wicked tremble still Whose life was knowne to be so holy cleare That vertue might have learn'd a lesson here 'T is true but know that humble modesty Which in his life did him accompany That hath ordained this green and turfie cover On his deceased Corpes to be laid over But since thou coverest such an one as hee How can the Marbles all but envy thee A little before his death he delivered an excellent Oration unto the Senate unto which was also added a serious exhortation unto all the Pastors of Geneva His Workes which he hath set forth for the generall good of the Church which are sufficient declarations of his worth are these which follow Commentaries upon the old Testament 1. Vpon Genesis 2. An Harmony upon the four bookes of Moses 3. Vpon Iosuah 4. Vpon the Psalmes Lectures 1. Vpon Ieremiah 2. Vpon the twenty one of Ezekiell 3. Vpon Daniel 4. Vpon the lesser Prophets Upon the new Testament 1. His Harmony on the Evangelists 2. His Coment on the Acts. 3. On all Pauls Epistles 4. On the Hebrews 5. On Peter Iames Iohn Iude. His Sermons 1. Vupon Deuteronomy 2. Vpon the Decalogue 3. Vpon Iob. 4. Vpon 119. Psalme 5. Vpon the Canticles 6. Upon 38. Chapters of Isaiah 7. Vpon the eight last Chapters of Daniel 8. Vpon the Nativity Passion Death Resurrection Ascention of Christ. 9. Vpon Gods Election and Providince 10. Vpon the first of Kings 11. Vpon Iosuah Other Works 1. His institutions 2. Vpon the Eucarist 3. Vpon the victory of Iesus 4. Genevaes Catechisme 5. Of Reforming Churches 6. Of Scandals 7. Of Free-will 8. Against Anabaptists 9. Libertines 10. Sorbonists 11. Against Iudiciall Astrology 12. Of Predestination 13. Of a true Communicant 14. Part of Seneca enlightened with a Commentary 15. His answer unto Sadolets Epistle Had we but such Reformers in our dayes As Calvin was we should have cause to praise Their bless endeavours but alas our Times Are daily acting not Reforming Crimes Heroick Calvins heart was alwayes true To truth and still would give the Church her due His soul was truely willing to take paines More for the publicke good then private gaines His life was fil'd with troubles yet his mind Even like the glistring Glow-worme alwayes shin'd Brightest when most surrounded with the night Of sad afflicâ—ions Calvins whole delight Was in the law of God from which his heart Being steelâ—d with truth could not be mov'd to start The Life and Death of William Farellus who dyed Anno Christi 1565. WIilliam Farellus was born in the Delphinate of a Noble family Anno Christi 1589. and senâ— to Paris to be brought up in learning and was one of the first that madâ— a Publick Profession of the Gospell in France but wâ—en persecution arose he fled into Helvetia where he grew inâ—o â—amiliarity with Zuinglius â—ecâ—lampâ—diusâ— and Hallâ—rus Anno Christi 1524. he went to Basil where he profâ—rred a publick Disputation with the Popish Divines of that place but the Masters of the University would not suffer it till the Senate interposing their autohrity and then Farellus set up his Theses publickly which he also maintained by desputation but the Bishop and his Associates drove him from Basil from thence he went to Mont-pelier and to some other places where he Preached the Gospell with so much fervor and zeal that all might see that he was called of God thereunto He coming to Metin Preached in the Chuch-yâ—rd belonging to the Dominicans who by ringing their beâ—lâ— thought to have drowned his voice but having a strong voyce he did so thunder it out that he went on audably to the end of his Sermon Anno Christi 1528. he with Virete went to Geneva where they planted the Church and propagated the Gospell and where by his earnest obtâ—station Calvin was forced to make his aboad Anno christi 1553. the Genevians though they owed themselves to him yet were carried on with such fury that they would have condemned Farell to death And afterwards they did such things against him that Calvin wished that he might have expiated their anger with his blood And from thence he went to Neocome where he discharged his Pastorall office with singular diligence and zeal When he heard of Calvins sicknesse he could not satisfie himselfe though he was seventy years of age but he must goe to Geneva to visit him He survived Calvin one yeare and odd Moneth and dyed age 76. years anno christi 1565. He was very godly learned innocent in life exceeding modest stout and sharp of wit and of such a strong voyce that he seemed to thunder in his speech and so fervent in Prayer that he carried his Hearers into heaven with him Renowned Farell liv'd a life Not spotted with the staines of strife He lov'd the thoughts the name of Peace His vertues had a large encrease Earth was his scorn and Heav'n his pride In Peace he liv'd in Peace he dy'd The Life and Deoth of Vergerius who dyed Anno Christi 1565. PEter Paul Vergerius excellently learned both in the Law and Popish Divinity he was sent by Pope Clement the seventh as his Legate into Germany to improve his uttermost abilities to hinder a Nationall Councill where accordingly he bestirred himselfe to hinder and endamage the Lutherans and to encourage the Popish Divines in opposing of them Anno Christi 1534. Paul the third sent for him to Rome to give him an account of the state affairs in Germany after which he sent him back into Germany to promise the Princes a Generall Councill to be held at Mantua but withall to perscribe such rules about coming to it as he knew the Protestant Divines would not accept of he had in charge also to stir up the Princes mindes against the King of England and to profer his Kingdome to whosoever would conquer it and to try if by any meanes he could take off Luther and Melancthon from prosecuting what they had begun Anno Christi 1535. he was called home againe by the Pope and when he had given him an account of his Legation he was sent presently
to Caesar to Naples to stir him up to take Armes against the Lutherans Anno Christi 1537. he was againe sent into Germany and also Anno Christi 1541. to the Convention at Wormes after which he was called back to Rome and the Pope being to make some Cardinals intended to make Vergeriâ—â— one but some suggested that he had been so long in Germany that he smelled of a Lutheran which made the Pope to alter his purpose which when Vergerius heard of he went into his owne Country purposing to clear himselfe by answering some of Luthers books but it pleased God that whilst he read them with an intent to confute them himselfe was converted by them whereupon he retired himself to his brother the Bishop of Pole and communicated his thoughts to him his brother at first was much asâ—onished but after a while was perswaded by him to read and study the Scriptures especially in the point of Justification by Faith whereby it pleased God that he also saw the Popish Doctrines to be false and so they both became zealous Preachers of Christ to the people of Istria but the Divell stirred up many adversaries against them especially the Fryars who accused them to the Inquisitors whereupon Vergerius went to Mantua to his old friend Cardinall Gonzaga but there he could not stay in safety whereupon he went to the Councill of Trent to purge himselfe but the Pope by his Legate stopt him from being heard there from thence he went to Venice and so to Padua where he was a spectator of the miserable condition of Francis Spira which so wrought upon him that he resoved to leave his Country and all his outward comforts and to goe into voluntary exile where he might freely professe Christ and accordingly he went into Rhetia where he Preached the Gospel sincerely til he was called from thence to Tubing by Christopher Duke of Wurtenburge where he ended his dayes Auno Christi 1565. Those Popish errours which at first bore sway In our Vergerious heart were chast away By the encreasing sun of truth his minde Which was before all drosse was refin'd And from a cruell enemy became A perfect friend and boldly would proclaime The reall truth fear'd not to be withstood Thus brave Vergerius turn'd from bad to good The Life and Death of Strigelius who dyed Anno Christi 1569. VIctorine Strigelius was born at Kausbita in Switzerland Anno Christi 1524. his fathâ—r was Doctor of Physiâ—k who died in his sons infancy when this Sâ—igelius was fit for it his friends finding him of a prompt and ready wit they set him to School in his owne Country where he quickly drunk in the first rudiments of learning and so Anno Christi 1538. he went to the University of Friburg and having studied the Arts there for a while An. Christi 1542. he went to Wittenberge where he was inflamed by God with an ardent desire to know the Doctrin of the Reformed Churches for which end he diligently attended on Luthers and Melancthons Lectures and wholly framed himselâ—â— to the imitation of Melancthom Anno Christi 1544. he Commensed Master of Arts and by the perswasion of Melancthâ—â— he taught a private Schoole at Winâ—â—enberg where he did much good and gat himselfe great repute But when thâ— Wars in Germany waxed hot he left Wittenberg and went to Magdeburge and from thence to Erphurd where he published some Orations being about twenty two years old Anno Christ 1548. he went thence to Ienes and their hâ— Preached and the year after married a wife which lived with him but two years Anno 1553. he maried againe whilst he continued there he had diverse disputations with Major about Good Works and with Flacius but An. 1559. the Flacians prevâ—iled so far that he and Aquila the Pastor of Ienes were both cast into prison the marks whereof he carryed to his grave In Prison he fell very sick insomuch as the Prince suffered him to goe unto his owne housâ— but yet made him â— Prisoner there Christopher Duke of Wurtenburg and Philip Lantgrave of Hâ—sse mediated for his release and yet could not obtaine it but at last the Emperor Maximillian interposing his authority procured it after he had been a prisoner abovâ— three yearâ— But perceiving that he could not be in sâ—fâ—ty in that place hâ— resolved to depart which the University understanding wrote to him earnestly importuning his stay to whom he returned thanks for their love but told them withall That his life was in conâ—inuall danger by reason oâ— false brethren and therefore he waâ— resolved to goâ— where he might do more good and accoâ—dingly from thence he went to Lipswich where he spâ—nt his time in writing upon the Psalmes and having it lefâ— to his choyce whether to stay at Lipswich or to go to Wittenberg being sent for thither he chose to stay where he was and was chosen Professor of Divinity in that University There he continued his Lectures till An. Christi 1566. at which â—imâ— he came to deliver his judgement about the Lords Supper wherâ—upon by the command of the Rector of the University the doors of the Colledge were shut against him and he not suffered to read anâ— more yet they would have restored him to his place if hâ— would have promised to meddle with that point no more but refused to make any such promise and withall comâ—plained to the Elector of Saxonie of the wrong don unto him from whom he received a sharp answer and therefore leaving Lipswich and went to Amberg in the upper Palaâ—inate where after a short stay he recâ—ived letters from the Elector Palatine and the University inviting of him to Heidleberge whither he presently went and was made Professor of Ethicks in which place he took very great pains both in reading his Lectures and Writing But his body having contracted some diseases by his former imprisonment Anno Christi 1569. he fell very sick whereupon he said Sperare se finem vitae suâ— adesse c. That he hoped that his life was at an end whereby he should be delivered from the fraud and miseries of thiâ— evill world and enjoy the blessed presence of God and his Saints to all Eternity and acordingly presently after he quietly departed in the Lord Anno Christi 1569. and of his Age 44. When a resolved heart is once inflam'd With heavenly motions t' will not be reclam'd By easie termes because a faithfull breast Is fil'd with Heaven Heaven is crown'd with restâ— And had not stout Strigelius his heart Been steel'd with courage he had felt the smart Of a bad conscience but he still persisted In what was good and would not be resisted Those wrongs and iniuries which he endur'd On earth was by Heav'ns grand Phisitian cur'd The Life and Death of John Brentius who dyed Anno Christi 1570. IOhn Brentius was born at Wile in Sweveland Anno Christi 1499. his father was Mayor of that City 24. years who carefully brought up his
to keep private what he should tell them he imparted his Commission telling them how acceptable it would be to the Emperour if they would send to him Brentius but if they refused the Emperour would destroy their City c. It pleased God that whilest he was thus perswading the Magistrates there came in one later then his fellowes and the Commissary not minding it did not tender the Oath to him so when they were dismissed this man wrote to Brentius Fuge fuge Brenti cito citius citissime which note was brought him as he sate at supper having read it he told his Family that he must goe forth upon businesse but would return ere long As he was going out of the City he met the Commissary who asked him whither he went He answered To a sick friend in the Suburbs who had sent for him Well said the Commissary to morrow you must dine with me He replyed God willing and so they parted Being thus escaped he hid himselfe in a thick Wood and for some weeks together he lay in the Wood all day and every night came into a Villege to a friends house where he lodged he wrote also to the Magistrates of Hale that if they could and would protect him he was ready to come back and not to forsake his flock but if they could not he did not desire that they should indanger themselves for his sake They answered that they could not protect him and therefore left him free to goe whither he pleased Presently after Vlricus Prince of Wurtenburge invited him to him and ordered him to be so private that he himselfe might not know where he was that if he was asked he might safely deny his knowledge of him yet upon suspicion his Castle was searched but Brentius was in another place where in his retirement he wrote a Comment upon the ninety third Psalm afterwards he went to Basil as to a safer place where his wife dyed of a Consumption from thence he removed to the Castle of Horrenburge in the Hyrcinian Wood where he changed his name and gave out that he was the Keeper of the Castle and whilst he was there he frequented the Sermons in a neighbor towne where the Minister used to spin out his Sermons to a great length whereupon Brentius took occasion modestly to tell him of it to whom the Minister answered You Castle-keepers think all time too long at Church but no time too long that you spend in drinking Brentius smiling at it said no more Whilest he was there he perfected his Comment upon Isaiah and some other Works afterwards he had great profers made him by the Citizens of Magdeburge by Edward the sixth King of England and by the Duke of Broussia but he refused them all and thus continued in banishment for the space of two years Anno Christi 1550. Vlricus Duke of Wurtenburg dyed and his son Christopher succeeding he resolved to restore the Ministers which were driven away by the Interim to their Charges within his Dominions and to perfect the Worke of Reformation and for that end sent for Brentius and kept him in his Castle of Stutgard that he might have his advice and assistance in carrying on of that work neither was he discouraged by the admonitions of the Princes and Bishops nor by the threats of the Garrisons that were about him but caused Brentius to write a Confession of Faith and of the Doctrine of Christian Religion and â—bout the chiefe points in Controversie which he intended to send to the Councill of Trent about that time Brentius married againe one Catharine Isenmam a choise woman who was a great comfort to him all the rest of his life by whom also he had twelve children the year after the Pastor of Stutgard dying Brentius was chosen in his room in which place he continued all his life and carryed himselfe with much sedulity piety and prudence in the same Anno Christi 1557. he was sent by his Prince to the Conference at Worms which came to nothing because the Popish party would not suffer that the Scripture should be â—he Judge of their Controversies In his old age he wrot upon the Psalmes and whereas there were many Monasteries in Wurâ—enburge out of w ch the Fryars were driven he perswaded his Prince to turn them to Schools for the training up youth in learning which was accordingly don and once in two years Brentius visited those Schools and tooke notice how the Scholars profited in learning and encouraged them to make a daily progresse therein he had almost finished his Comment upon the Psalmes when as his old age worn out with studyes and labors put a period unto the same and his end was hastned by grief for the immature death of hiâ— Prince for whom he professed that he would willingly have sacrificed all his estate and his owne life also Falling inâ—o a Fevor whereby he perceived that his end approached he made his Will wherein he set downe a Confession of his Faith and sending for the Ministers of Stutgard he caused his Son to read it to them requested them to subscribe their hands as witnesses to it he also received the Sacrament and exhorted them to unity in Doctrine and love amongst themselves he was exceeding patient in all his sicknesse neither by word nor gesture shewing the least impatience alwayes saying That he longed for a better even an eternall life the night before his death he slept sweetly and when he awaked the Minister repeated the Apostles Creed and asked him whether he dyed in that Faith to whom he answered Yea which was his laâ—t word and so he quietly resigned up his spirit unto God Anno Christi 1570. and of his Age 71. He was buried with much honor â—nd had this Epitaph Voce stylo pietate fide candore probatus Johannes tali Brentius ore fuit With voice style piety faith candor grac'd In outward shape Iohn Brentius was thus fac'd Toss'd in the ship of fortune Bâ—entius sail'd From place to place his courage never fail'd But with resolved Constancy he bent His minde to suffer free from discontent The rage of Papists could not make him yeeld To their desires True vertue was his shield The strength of his afflictions added strength Unto his soul his suffrings had no length Except of dayes and them he knew to be Bâ—t servile Subjects to Mortality Thus like a patient sufferer he fled From earth to heaven and there repos'd his head The Life and Death of Peter Viretus who dyed Anno Christi 1571. PEtâ—r Viretus was born in the Country of the Bernates brought up in learning at Paris where he began to be acquainted with Farellus from thence he went to Lusanna where he was chosen Pastor and spent much of his time in teaching and writing there and when Calvin was sent to the Conference at Worms Anno Christi 1541. and from thence to Ratisbone he obtained of the Senate of Lusanna that Viretus should
supply his place at Geneva til his return and when he came backe he much importuned that Viretus might still continue there affirming that it would much conduce to the good of the Church at Geneva to enjoy his labours but he would needs return to Lusanna to his former charge yet afterwards at the earnest entreaty of the French Churches he went to Lions where in the middest of the Civill Wars and the Pestilence which followed he with his Collegues governed the Church with much prudence till by the Jesuits means there was a Proclamation sent abroad that none but such as were Native French should be Preachers in the Protestant Churches then at the request of the Queen of Navar he went to Bern where he continued untill his death which was in the year 1571. and of his Age threescore He was much bewailed of all good men whâ—â—est he lived he was of a very weake constitution the rather by reason oâ— poyson which a Priest had given to him at Geneva as also because of some wounds that he had received from a Priest in another place where he was left for dead He was very learned of a sweet disposition and so exceeding eloquent that he drew many to be his Hearers which were no friends to Religion and they were so chained to his lips that they never thought the time long wherein he Preached but alwayes wished his Sermons longer At Lyons which was a populous City he Preached in an open place aâ—d turned some thousands to the Truth and Faith in Christ yea some that passed by with no purpose to heare his Sermon he did so woâ—ke upon them thâ—t they neglected their other businesse to harken to him Reader observe the Malice of his Foes Who having not the wisedome to oppose Brave Viretus by arguments thought fit To labour with a diabolick wit To work his ruine first by poyson they Contriv'd his fall but poyson scorn'd to bey Their base desires which made them rage and swell Into a madnesse till advis'd by Hell To a more speedy way which soone took place Within their hearts being destitute of grace They thought it good to imploy a Papist whose arme Was ready to performe what might prove harme To harmelesse Viretus and with a knife As they suppos'd depriv'd him of his life But God the great abhorror of such crimes Preserv'd rare Viretus for better times IOHN IEVELL The Life and Death of John Jewell IF ever any were happy in the imposition of names in those whom they dedicate to God at the Font certainly they were who christned this holy and learned man Iohn Iewell for his rare and admirable partâ— and both naturall and supernaturall gifts were every way corresponding to his gracious and precious name According to his christian name Iohn signifying graâ—e he was a gracious instrument of Christ to reforme the gold of the Sanctuary which through the negligence or impiety of later times became dim and drossie with superstition And according to his surname he was a rich Iewell consisting of many Gems shining as well in his life as his incomparable writings extant almost in all languages This great Clerke was borne at Berrenber in the County of Devon of which it may truly be said as it was sometimes of Hyppo that Hyppo was more ennobled by great Saint Austine then Saint Austine by little Hippo. For his education it was first in Morton and after in Corpus Christi Colledge in Oxford The former hath proved a famous nursery of Phylosophy and Schoole Divinity the latter of the knowledge of Tongus and polite literature in both which our Iewell shewing by his golden thighs what flowers he most sucked and longest sat upon excelled for an acuter Disputant an eloquenter Oratour a more universall Schollar and every way an accomplished Divine the Church hath not had for many hundreds of years The first glistering of this Iewell was in the Rhetoricke Lecture conferred upon him in Corpus Christi Colledg when he was yet but Batchelor of Arts. This Lecture he read with such facility and felicity that all his Auditors perceiving that he spake potius ex arte than de arte rhetorice rather from an excellent faculty he had in that flexanimous Art then of the Art it selfe Neither were these his Lectures onely strewed as it were with flowers of Rhetorick but richly fraught with all varietie of humaine Learning which drew many Auditors unto him from other Colledges and among them his Tutor Master Parkhurst afterwards Bishop of Norwitch who tooke great delight to behold the sparklinâ— of that Diamond which himselfe had first pointed and hâ— could not containe his joy but vented it on the sudden in this extempore Disticon Olim discipulus mihi chare Juelle fuisti Nunc ero Discipulus te renuente tuus Dear Iewell whilome Schollar thou wert mine But now against thy will I will be thine This his fame and love abroad purchased him envy and hatred at home for he found shortly after to his cost thâ— truth of the Philologist his observation concerning truth vertue and curtesie three of the best Mothers are often delivered of three of the worst Daughters truth of hatred curtesie of contempt and vertue of envie Vrit enim fulgore suo the glory of eminent worth dazelleth the infirme eyes of worthlesse men such as at this time the seven Seniors and Officers of that Coledge were who as the Patriarks moved with envie sold Ioseph into Egypt so they sicke of the same malady expelled Iewell out of the House more to their owne discredit and disadvantage then to his For soone after his expulsion they found a great misse of him in the education of their Youth and his greatest enemies who cloaked their envie for the present with pretended zeale for the Romish religion yet after were heard to speak thus of him within themselves we should love thee if thou wert not a Zuinglian though we believed Iewel that thy Belief is not sound yet in thy life thou art an Angel Neither was this all but when Master Welch Dean of the Colledge made his brags before Doctor Brooks sometimes Fellow of that Colledge but then Bishop of Glocester that they alone had kept safe their rich Copes â—ushens Plate and other Ornaments of their Chappell It is true quoth Doctor Wright Arch-deacon of Oxford standing by you have saved them but you have lost a more precious Ornament of your house your Iewel But the best was what the Colledge lost the University found and of a private Lecturer made him their publick Oratour and for the substraction of his maintainance by the losse of his Fellows place in the Colledge that defect was abundantly supplyed by the bounty of some of his Schollars Parâ—nts who procured for him and conferred upon him a good Benefice neer Oxford And now he grows in estate and fame in the University and grace with all the Heads of Colledges and Hals but especially he was precious in the
his Bed in which after he was laid the Gentleman of his Bed-chamber red to him till wearied nature shut up the offices of hiâ— senses long after his Porter had lockt up the Gates of his Pallace This watchfull and laborious kind of life without any recreation at all save what his necessary refection at hiâ— meals and a very few hours of rest in the night aforded him spent the oyl of this sweet Lamp the faster and thereby hastened his extinction and death in this world Which as he foresaw by the spirit so he foretold by letters to the Bishop of Noâ—wich Yet upon record in the works of Doctor Humfrey and as he forefaw it and foretold it so accordingly he prepared for it as a Traveller who hath little day and much way left spurreth on faster that he may reach home by day-light so he desirous to finish his course before the night of death approached mended his pace and dispatched all sorts of businesse with more celerity and as he was visiting his Diocesse more severely then ever before God visited him and as he preached at Lacock upon the words of the Apostle Walk in the Spirit Death arested him in the Pulpit from whence he was carried to his bed where he still continued preached to all that came to visit him either by heavenly instructâ—ons or pious ejaculations or divine meditations and paraphrases upon the pâ—ssages of Scripture which were read unto him even till at one and the self-same instant he committed both his hearers and his soul to God Valerius Maximus writeth of Sylla that it was hard to say whether he or his anger were first extinct for he threatned his enemies dying and dyed threatning but on the contrary it may be said of this servant of Christ Jesus it is hard to determine whether his naturall heat or his zeal first was extinguished whether his Prayers or his soul first arrived at Heaven for he dyed praying and prayed dying His last words worthy to be written with a pen of Diamond never to be rased out were theseâ— A Crown of righteousnesse is laid up for me Christ is my righteousnesse this is my body this day quickly let me come â—nto theâ— this day let me see the Lord Iesu. He was buried in the midst of the Quire where after he had been interred two yeers Dr. Humfrey laid upon him a faire marble stone with an inscription upon it containing a brief Chronicle of his life of which monument of that religious Professor it may be truly said as it was of that which Iulius Caesar raised to Pompey Caesar dum Pompeii statuas erexti suas confirmavit In making this monument to continue the memory of Iewel he eternized his own but Iewel left himself a second monument more famous then that the Library he built in Salisbury and yet a third more lasting then either of the former his Works here ensuing whereof these were Manuscripts 1. A Paraphrasticall Exposition of the Epistles and Gospels through the whole yeer 2. A continuate Exposition of the Creed Lords Prayer and ten Commandements 3. A Commentary upon the Epistle to the Galathians 4. A Commentary upon the Epistle of Saint Peter The Printed are these 1. Anno Dom. 1550. A latine Sermon preached at Saint Maries upon 1 Pet. 4.11 2. An. Dom. 1558. Divers Sermons preached before Queen Elizabeth at Pauls Crosse. 3. An. Dom. 1559. Epistola ad Scipionem patritium veneâ—um de causis cur Episcopi Angliae ad Concilium Tridentinum non convenerint 4. Anno 1560. A Challenge to all Papists at Pauls Crosse with an Answer to Doctor Cole in defence of a Sermon preached before the Queens Majesty and her most honourable Councell 5. Anno 1561. Apologia Ecclesiae Anglicanae 6. Anno 1562. An Exposition upon the first Epistle to the Thessalonians 7. Anno 1563. An Exposition upon the second Epistle to the Thessalonians 8. An. 1564. A Reply to Master Hardings Answer concerning the seven and twenty Articles contained in Master Jewel his Challenge viz. 1. Of private Masse 2. Communion under both kinds 3. Of Prayer in a strange tongue 4. Of the Supremacy 5. Of the reall presence 6. Of Polytopue or being in many places at once 7. Of the Elevation 8. Of adoration of the Host. 9. Of carrying the Sacrament under a Canopy 10. Of accidents without subject 11. Of dividing the Sacrament 12. Of a figure in the Sacrament 13. Of plurality of Masses 14. Of adoration of Images 15. Of reading the Scripture in the mother tongue 16. Of Consecration under silence 17. Of the Sacrifice of the Masse 18. Of receiving the Communion for others 19. Of the application of Christâ— death by the Masse 20. Of Opus Operatum 21. Of the Title of the Sacrament Lord and God 22. Of remaining under accidents 23. Of Mice eating the body of Christ. 24. Of Individium Vagum 25. Of the form and shews of Bread and Wine 26. Of hiding and covering the Sacrament 27. Of Ignorance whether it be the mother of Devotion 9. Anno 1565. A Rejoynder to Mr. Hardings Reply 10. An. 1566. A defence of the Apology of the Church of England 11. An. 1567. An answer to Mr. Hardings Preface 12. An. 1568. A Treatise of the Sacraments 13 An. 1569. The view of a seditious Bull sent into England 14. An. 1570. A Treatise oâ— the holy Scriptures If any desire to be more familiarly acquainted with Iewels and to be particularly informed of his method and course of study his witty and learned Discourses at Table his Poems and penned Speeches in the Colledge his Exercises for his Degrees his holding the golden Ballances of Minerva before Vrania being Moderator in Divinity Disputations in the presence of Queen Elizabeth at an Act at Oxford as also how he attained to that admirable faculty of memory whereby he waâ— able on the sudden to repeat Chapters of names read to him backward and forward broken sentences and exutick words Welsh Irish or any other Language after once or twice reading at the most let him read the story of his life at large in Doâ—tor Humfrey or at least the abridgement thereof which I drew in the year of our Lord 1611. being then Student in Corpus Christi Colledge at the command of Archbishop Bancroft which as soon as it was sent up was suddenly printed and prefixed to Iewels Works before I had time to revise it and note the Errata which I entreat thee for thine own sake as well as for mine thus now to correct Page 5. line 30. The wisdome of God so ordered this matter adde For Jewel his greater honour and the advantage of the truth P. 7. l. 10. for the blessed Spouse of Christ r. the blessed husband of the Spouse of Christ. P. 8. l. 21. for Valerius r. Vellerius p. 9. l. 16. for his Apologie fell in the yeer 1566. r. the defence of his Apologie And l. 23. for cene r. scene p. 12. l. 17. which is his Church adde on
earth and set it in a Crown of pure Gold upon her head in Heaven The Preface to the King before the life is not mine but D r. Overals then Dean of S t. Pauls the Appendix likewise iâ— not mine but Doctor Morton then Lord Bishop of Duresm the modell of the life drawn by me beginneth thus If rare and admirable qualities of our Ancestors deserve a â—hankefull acknowledgement of Posterity And endeth thus Lord adorn and enâ—ich continually thy Church with such Iewels deck her cheeks with rows of such Rubies and her neck with chains make her borders of gold with stâ—ds of silver Amen Holy Learning sacred Arts Gifts of Nature strength of Parts Fluent Grace an humble minde Worth reform'd and wit refinde Swéetnesse both in tongue and Pen Insight both in Bookes and Men Hopes in woe and feares in weals Humble knowledge sprightly zeale A liberall heartâ— and frée from Gall Close to friends and true to all Height of courage in Truths duell Are the stones that made this Jâ—well Let him that would be truly blest Weare this Jewell in his brest The Life and Death of Zegedine who dyed Anno Christi 1572. STeven Zegedine was borne in the lower Fanonia in the yeâ—r 1505. brought up in learning wherein he profited to admiration and became a Schoolmaster himself about which time hearing the fame of Luther and Melancthon he had a great minde to goe to Wittenberg but wanting opportunity in sundry regâ—rds he went to the Uâ—iversity at â—racovia where having studied a while he was made a Reader to others and grew very famous and having gotten some money there he then went to Wittenberg where he studied Logick and Divinity three years and then returned into hiâ— owâ— Coâ—ntrey And in the City of Thasniadine he instructed Youth in the knowledge of Arâ—s and Preached Jesus Christ also to the Peâ—â—le before uâ—knowâ—e unto them whereupon the Kingâ—â— Treasurer fell upon him beat him and drove â—im out of the City there he lost two hundred Books and was so barbarously kicked by this Tyrant with his iron Spurs that he was almost slaine Thus wandring up and downe as an exile Anno Chisti 1545. he was called to Iulia where he was made governour of an illustrious School and the year after he was sent for to Cegledine where he was hired to Preach publickly in the Church There also he married a wife and after three years stay he went thence and was sent for by the Governour of Temeswert to govern the School there where also he preached to the people but that Governour dying there succeeded him one that was a strong Papist who drove Zegedine from thence Being again an exâ—le he was called to govern the Schoole at Thurin where he also preached to the people who eagerly embraced the Truth and loved him exceedingly From thence he waâ— called to Bekenese where he also preached to the people and read in the Schools whilest he was there a Countrey man coming to him said Sir what doe you here when there are some souldiers coming upon you to slay you therefore flye hence speedily if you will save your life Whilest he was speaking the noyse of th souldiers was heard without whereupon he slipt into his chamber but the souldiers breaking in upon him plundered him of all he had and binding him carried him away with them but behold the gracious providence of God amongst those bloody Souldiers there was one that favoured him and conveyed him away so that swiming over a river he escaped and returned home again shortly after his fame spreading abroad he was called to Tholna to govern a School there and there also he preached to the people and his former wife being dead he married another and not long after he was chosen to Lascovia to be the Pastor there and was Ordained Minister by the Imposition of Hands and taught Schoole also about which time he was made Doctor and the Superintendent of all that Baronry he read also in private to many that repaired to him and intermitted not his pains no not in sickness if he had but strength to speak that his voycâ— might be heard Anno Christi 1558. he was removed thence by the authority of the Governour of the Castles to Calmantsem Anno Christi 1561. the Vayvod of Copasware with his souldiers being Turks came upon the inhâ—bitants of Calmantsem for neglecting to pay their Tribute as they were at Sermon and took many of them prisoners together with Zegedine and carryed them away to Copasware the rest that escaped gathered the Tribute carried it presently to the Vayvâ—d entreated his pardon and the restitution of the prisoners especially of Zegedine but he told them that if they would have them restored to liberty they must goe and pitition the Bashaw for their release which they doing the prisoners were presently releaâ—ed but when they afterwards accused the Vayvod to him of Tyranny and injustice he required that Zegedine and some of the chiefe Citizens should come and testifie those things before him but when Zegedine came he picked a quarrell with him and cast him into prison whereupon his people by rich presents endeavour'd to procure his release and when they had almost obtained their request one whispered the Bashaw in the ear and told him that he might have 1000. Florens for his ransome whereupon he still detained him and told them that he would not release him till they had paid him a 1000. Florens but when the money came in slower then he exspected the barbarous Tyrant chid his Keeper for using him too gently which as he said was the cause that his ransome was not yet paid whereupon his Keeper bound and whip't him with thongs till he was bloudy all over and almost kill'd him afterwards the Bashaw promised that iâ— they would procure the release of the daughter of the Major of Tolne who was prisoner with the Hungarians and bring her unto him he would release Zegedine her therefâ—re his people of Calmantsem redeemed for three hundred Florens and presented her to the Bashaw yet the Infidell falsified his promise and kept him still prisoner then the Prince of Transilvania sent Ambassadors and a rich present to the Bashaw requesting the release of Zegedine yet nothing would prevail many pittying his miserable captivitie came to visit him and gave him money but his cruell Keeper extorted most of it from him Bâ—ing loâ—den with heavy chains the Citizens with much importunity prevailed to get him leave once a day to come to the Christians to whom he preached and so returned to prison againe yet God stired up the hearts of some of the Courtiers to commiserate his deplorable condition During his imprisonment the Bashaw used all means both by threats and promises to draw him to abjure the Christian Religion and to turne Turk but he alwayes answered him stoutly That such arguments might prevaile with children but could not prevaile with him Having leave at last to lye amongst the other
Prisoners he wonderfully refreshed and comforted them by his godly exhortations and consolations drawn from the Scriptures whereby they were much confirmed in the Christian Faith and whereas before they were almost pined through want of food God so stirred up the heartâ— of some to bring reliefe to Zegedine that all the rest of the prisoners were provided for plentifully thereby Remaining thus in prison he was not idle but wrote there his Common-places and some other Works thus he remained in Prison above a year in which time three of his children dyed which added much to his aâ—fliction and though his people had used the intercession of all their great men there about for his liberty yet all prevailed not till it pleased God that a Noble Baron and his Lady passing by that way saw this worthy man of God in so miserable a plight that the Lady much pitied him and afterwards being in Child bed and ready to dye she requested her Lord who loved her dearly for her sake to improve all his interest in the Bashaw to procure Zegedines liberty which he with an oath promised to perform and accordingly engaged himselfe to the Turk that he should pay 1200. Florens for his ransome thereupon he was released and went about to diverse Cities to gather his ransome and God so enlarged mens hearts towards hâ—m that in a short time he carried 800. Florns to this Baron and so returned to his people at Calmanâ—sem The year after being 1564. as he was going by coach to Buda when the horses came near the great river Danubius being very hot and dry thy ran violently into the river but behold the admirable providence of God when they had swam some twenty paces in the river they turned back again and drew the coach and him safely to the shore The same year by the Imposition of Hands he ordained three excellent men Ministers About that time there came a bragging Fryar and challenged him to a Disputation which he willingly accepting of the great Church was appointed for the place and many of both sides resorted thither and the Fryar came with much confidence his servants carrying a great sacke of Bookes after him but in the Disputation Zegedine did so baffle him that all his friends shrunk away with shame and the Fryar with his great sack was left all alone so that himselfe was fain to take it on his own shoulders and goe his way About that time the Vaivod who had before betrayed him coming to the place where Zegedine was desired to speake with him and requested him to forgive him professing that he could rest neither night nor day he was so haunted with apparitions and the Furies of his own conscience which Zegedine easily affented unto In the year 1566. Zegedine being very hot invited a friend to goe with him to the River of Danubius to bathe himself but as they were swiming his friend looking about him saw not Zegedine and wondering what was become of him so suddenly at last he spyed his hoarie hairs appearing above water and swimming swiftly to him Zegedine was sunk whereupon he diving to the bottome of the river caught hold of him and drew him forth carrying him to a Mill that was not far off where he laid him to bed about midnight Zegedine coming to himself enquired how he came there and who drew him out of the River hiâ— friend told him the whole story and kept him carefully till he recovered In the year 1572. he fell into a mortall dsease which so much the more afflicted him becausâ— he could not sleepe whereupon he sent for a Chirurgion who gave him a bitter potion which caused him to fall a sleepe but after a little while he quietly breathed forth his last being sixty seven years of age How full of patience how divine Was this our learned Zegedine Though cast in prison and restrain'd From food yet he the truth maintain'd His heart resolved from his youth Rather to starve then starve the truth For Disputations few there were That could with Zegedine compare His rare example lets us know Patience o'recomes the greatest woe The Life and Death of John Knox who dyed Anno Christi 1572. JOhn Knox was born at Gifford in Lothain in Scotland Anno 1505. of honest Parentage brought up first at School then sent to the University of Saint Andrews to study under Master Io. Maior who was famouâ— for learning in those dayes and under whom in a short time he profited exceedingly in Philosophy and School Divinity and took hiâ— Degrees and afâ—erwards was admitted very young into Orders then he betook himself to the reading of the Fathers especially Augustine's Works and lastly to the earnest study of the holy Scriptures by w ch being through God's mercy informed of the Truth he willingly embraced it and freely professed it and imparted it to others But when there was a persecution raised up by the Bishops against the Professours of the Truth he fled into England where he preached the Gospel with much zeal fruit both at Berwick Newcastle and London He was much esteemed â—y King Edward the sixt who proffered him a Bishoprick which he rejected as having Aliquid commune cum Antichristo something in it common with Antichrist King Edward being dead the pâ—rsecution raised by Queen Mary made him leave England and goe to Frankefort where for a time he preached the Gospel to the English Congregation but meeting with opposition there both from Papists and false brethren he went to Geneva Anno Christi 1559. and of his age 54. the Nobility of Scotland with some others beginning the Reformation of Religion sent for him home and shortly after he was setled Minister at Edinbrough where he preached many excellent Sermons Anno Christi 1566. the Earl of Murray being slain on the Saturday Knox preaching at Edinbrough the next day amongst the papers given of those that desired the prayers of the Church he found one with these words Take up the man whom yee accounted another God At the end of his Sermon he bemoaned the losse that the Church and State had by the death of that vertuous man adding further There is one in this company that makes this horrible murder the subject of his mirth for which all good men should be sorry but I tell him he shall dye where there shall be none to lament him The man that had written those words was one Thomaâ— Metellan a young Gentleman of excellent parts but bearing small affection to the Earl of Murray he hearing this commination of Iohn Knox went home to his Sister and saâ—d That Iohn Knox was raving to speak of he knew not whom His Sister replyed with tears If you had taken my advice you had not written those words saying further Thaâ— none of Iohn Knox his threatnings fell to the ground without effect And so indeed this came to passe for shortly after this Gentleman going to travell dyed in Italy having none to assist
thou hast not received And Not I but the grace of God in mee With which he is gon away ashamed and shall no more return and now I am sure that my battell â—s at an end and that without pain of body or trouble of spirit I shall shortly change this mortall and miserable life with that happy and immortall life that shall never have an end After which one praying by his bed having made an end asked him If he heard the Prayer Yea said he and would to God that all present had heard it with such an ear and heart as I have don Adding Lord Iesus receive my spirit With which words without any motion of hands or feet as one falling a sleep rather then dying he ended his life Never was man more observant of the true just authority of Church-Rulers according to the Word of God and thâ— practise of the purest Primitive time he alwayes pressed due Obedience from the people to the faithfull Pastorâ— and Elders of the Church He dyed Anno Christi 1572. and of his Age 62. Men of all ranks were present at his Buriall The Earl of Murray when the Corps was put into the ground said Here lies the body of him who in his life time never feared the face of any man Undaunted Knox would never fear to tell The bett their follyes if they did not well He was severe to those that would not Observant to his preach'd Divinity He lov'd the wayes of peace and would delight Himselfe in â—ods just Lawes both day and night His soul would be laborious to fullfill The sweet commands of his deare makers will In peace he liv'd and with a peacefull breath He call'd on God and yeelded unto deathâ— The Life and Death of Peter Ramus who dyed Anno Christi 1572. PEter Ramus was born in France Anno Christi 1515. His Grandfather was a Noble-man who having his estate plundered by Charles Duke of Burgundie Generall under the Emperour Charles the fifth was forced to leave his Country and to betake himselfe to the poore and painfull life of an husbandman and his father being left very poor by him was fain to live by making of Charcole Ramuâ— being from his Childhood of an excellent wit of an industrious nature and much addicted to learning was compelled for his subsistance to live as a servant with one of his Uncles but finding that by reason of his many Imployments he had no time to follow his book there he thought it better to betake himselfe to the service of some learned man so going to Paris and being admitted into the Colledge of Navar he laboured hard all day for his Masters and spent a great part of the night in study so that in a short time he was made Master of Arts and Laureat-Poet and the Professors in that Colledge every one taking much delight in his diligence each strove to forward him in learning and lent him such books as he needed then he betook himselfe to instructing of others and to exercise himselfe in private Lectures till thereby he had fitted himselfe for more publick employments then was he appointed publickly to read Logick and when he was twâ—nty one years old he published his Logick with some Animadversions upon Aristotile this procured him much love every one admiring such ripe parts in so young a man and envy being the usuall concomitant of vertue he had also many that envied and aspersed him especially the Sorbone Doctors who accused him of Heresie in Phylosopgy for that he being but a Novice dust take upon him to correct Aristotle the Prince of Phylosophers and by their authority they so far prevailed that Ramus was forbidden to read or write any morâ— of Phylosophy This being very griâ—vous to him it pleased God to stir up the heart of the Governour of another Colledge to send for him to assist him in restoring of that Colledge which was now empty the students being all fled by reason of the infection of the Plague aâ—â— it came to passe that in a short time Ramus being so famouâ— a man the Colledge was better stored with students then ever it was before the Sorbonists much raged at this and laboured to soâ— division betweene the Governour of the Colledge and him yet Ramus carried himselfe with so much candor and ingenuity that they lived together wâ—th much concord at last that Governour dying Ramâ—s succâ—eded him and by the Cardinall of Lorrain's meanes who who was a great favorer of Learning he was made the Regius Professor of Rhetorick and Phylosophy Anno Christâ— 1551. and of his Age thirty six His fame spreading into all the Universities of Christendome there were many Princes that strove to get him out of France profering him large stipends if he would come to them but he being now famous in France preferred his owne Country before all others and therefore rejected all their offers In Pariâ— he had so great esteem that though his enemies strongly opposed it yet he was made Dean of the whole University and so having obtained a more quiet kinde of life he betook himselfe to the study of the Mathematicks wherein he grew very exquisite But when the Civill Wars brake forth in France for Religion and that none could safely enjoy themselves or any thing that they had when under pretence of Religion every one revenged his owne private quarrels upon others Ramus to free himselfe from this tempest left Paris and went to Fontainblew where the Kings Library was yet neither there could he be in safety so that at last he was compelled to betake himselfe to the Camp of the Prince of Conde But when he saw that France was no fit place for him for the present to reside in he resolved to travell into Germany till God should restore peace to his Country againe and accordingly he went to Argentine Basil Lusanna Tâ—gâ—re Heidelbâ—rgeâ— Noreâ—berg and Auspurg and was entertained in all these Universities with great applause and with much joy by all learned men And when the Civill War was ended in France he returned to Pariâ— againe Then he remained in his College till thâ—t horrible Massacre happened on Saint Bâ—rtholomews Eve wherein so many thousands perished by the cruell hands of bloody Papists at which time the Colledge gates being fast shut he locked himselfe up in his owne house till those furious Papistâ— brake open his doorâ— and finding him 〈◊〉 him through and being halfe dead threw him out of his window and not â—â—â—â—â—fied therewith they cut off his head dragged his body about the streets in the channels and at last threw it into the river of Sâ—in Anno Christi 1572. and of his Age seven and fifty After which also they selâ—ed upon his Goods Library and Writings whereby many â—xcellent Commâ—ntaries and other Works not fully compleaâ— perished to the great losse of learned men Indâ—â—â—rious 〈◊〉 from his youth inclin'd Himselâ—e 〈…〉 a well composed minâ—e His hearâ— was serious and he tooke great
paines To sowe good seeds and after reape the gaâ—nes He was belov'd of all that lov'd the â—ame Of learning for he had a winged name His care his love his industry was such That in few yeaâ—s his heart attain'd to much But in conclusion Enviâ— that still crowds Into true Fame involv'd him in the clouds Of sudden ruine Pâ—â—istâ— thought it good To take a furfeit of his guiltlesse blood The Life and Death of Matthew Parker who dyed Anno Christi 1574. MAtthew Parker was born in the City of Norwich Annâ— Christi 1502. and having some years at Schoole hâ— went to Cambridge where he was admitted into Corpuâ— Christi Bennet Colledg in which place he profited so much that he was chosen Fellow and grew so famous thâ—t Queen Ann Bullen mother to Queen Elizabeth made him her Chaplain whereupon he Commensed Doctor in Divinity and after her death King Henry the eighth and after his death King Edward the sixth made him their Châ—plaines and preferred him to be Master of Bennet Colledge besides other Ecclesiasticall dignities which they advanced him to but in Queen Maries dayes he was despoiled of all and was compelled to live a poor and private life but so soon as Queen Elizabeth came to the Crown she made choyce of this Doctor Parker for his admirable learning and piety to be the Archbishop of Canterbury Anno Christi 1559. which place he supplyed with great commendation for above fifteen years His works of Charity were very eminent He gave to the Corporation of Norwich where he was born a Bason and Ewr double guilt weighing 173. ounces as also fifty shillings a year for ever to be destributed amongst the poor of that City and six anniversary Sermons in severall places of Norfolk to Bennet Colledge he gave thirty Scholarships built them a Library and bestowed many excellent books and ancient Manuscripts upon it besides three hundred ounces of silver and guilt-plate and the perpetuall Patronage of Saint Mary Ab-church-London He carefully collected and caused to be printed diverse ancient Histories of England which probably had otherwise been lost He dyed in peace An. Christi 1574. and of his Age 72. What Heav'n bestow'd upon him he was frée To give to others for his Charitie Was known to many whose impatient griefe Inforc'd them to implore his sure reliefe His worth was such that t' was disputed which Pray'd for him most either the poore or rich The poore they pray'd as they were bound to do Because he fild their soules and bodies too The rich destr'd his life because his store Sustain'd their soules and help'd maintain the poore Thus having spent his dayes in love he went In peace to Heav'ns high court of Parliament HENRICVS BVLLINGERVS The Life and Death of Henry Bullinger IN the year of our Lord 1504. Henricus Bullingerus was born at Bremogarta a Town in Switzerland he was descended from an ancient and a noble Family much esteemed and honoured in those parts Being an Infant he was twice in great danger of his life but preserved by the powerfull hand of God contrary to the expectation of his Parentâ— and friends first from the Pestilence wherewith those parts were at that time grievously punished and secondly from a wound which he received in his â—hrâ—at by reason of a fall whereby he was made unable to admit of any nourishment for the space of five dayes His Father being a man of great learning and bearing an extraordinary affection unto the Arts and their Professors he was very carefull to provide that the tender years of this his Son might be bathed in the Fountains of Learning and for that cause he being not fully five years old he was sent unto a Countrey School neer adjoyning where he continued seven years but by reason of the inability of his Master he profited not much yet he attained unto that perfection that he exceeded those which learned with him not without the approbation of his Master His Parents well perceiving the towardlinesse of the childe and finding that Schoolmaster not to be a sufficient Tutor for him they presently entred into a consideration of sending him unto some more eminent place where he might be instructed in the Arts for the better perfection of nature and therefore in the year 1516. he was sent unto Embrick a Town in the Dukedom of Clire then famous for the many learned Schollers wherewith it was adorned and here he was comitted unto the tuition of Casparus Glogoriensis and of Petrus Cochemensis Mosellanus and others being men beautified with excellent endowments and famous both for their Method of Teaching and severity of Discipline which latter was most acceptable unto this Bullinger and for that cause being yet a childe he had an intent to unite himself unto the Order of the Carthusians it being the stricâ—est and most severest In this place Bullinger concinued three years to the great perfection of his Studies and increasing of his knowledge in the Arts and Tongues During which time he received little maintenance from his Father He furnished himselfe with victuals sometimes by singing sometimes by begging from doore to doore Which action he performed not because his Father was poore and could not or covetous and would not confer a sufficient annuall pension on him but he did it because he desired to have some experience of the miserable and wretched condition of poore men that iu future times he might be the more willing and ready to relieve and succour them Afterwards he removed unto Colen where he studied Logick and notice being taken of his excellent qualities he proceeded Bachelor of Arts and because there was great controversies in the Churches then touching some points of Divinity he inclined unto the Study of Theologie and withall desired to know of those who were esteemed the best Schollars what Authors were fittest to be read to ground him in the knowledge thereof They all advise him to consult with Lombard his writings being of good account and authority in those times This counsell was embraced by Bullinger who not contenting himselfe with that Author he went unto Georgius Deinerus by whose procurement he obtained an admission into the publick Library at Colen where he studied the Homilies of Chrysostome on Matthew read over some chiefe parts of the Workes of Augustine Ambrose Origen the Workes of Luther he read privately in his own Chamber which indeed were the meanes of inlightning his understanding for by the reading of them he was induced to peruse and to search into the Scriptures and especially into the New Testament whereby he entred into a detestation of the Doctrine of the Church of Rome and into a constant and firme resolution of rejecting the austerâ— life of the Carthusian Monkes In this Academy he went forth Master of Arts and then he returned unto his Fathers house where he spent a whole year in his private studies and meditations at the end whereof he was called by Wolfangus Ionerus unto
unto the Senate who had hitherto constantly defended the doctrine of the Gospell As he tooke his leave thus of the Pastors by word of mouth so he tooke his leave of the Senate by writing commending the care of the Church and publick-schoole unto them withal desires that Rodolphus Guatterus might be his successor whom he adjudged the most fit for the discharging of a Pastorall office in that place having thus after a friendly manner taken his leave he prepared himselfe to meet the Lord and in the midst of his extremities sometimes repeating the sixteenth sometimes the forty two sometimes the fifty one Psalmes sometimeâ— the Lords prayers sometimes other prayersâ— at the last framing himselfe as it were to sleep he quietly yeelded his soule into the hands of God on the eighteenth of September in the year 1575. and in the 71. year of his age He was thâ— most excellent of all the Divines that Switzerland yeelded he was an undaunted defender of the truth of Christ he was of a weak disposition plainâ— in teaching a lover of truth but a detâ—ster of Sophisticall â—nd unprofitable arguments in his speech he was affable and courteous aswell towards those of his family as towards strangers he was sparing in his dyet loving unto all and studious as it plainly appeares by his works here following which he left behind him as testifications of his desire unto the generall good and benefit of the Church Tome 1. 1. A Catechisme for the Trigurine Schoolmasters 2. An Epitomie of Christian Religion in ten Books 3. Sermons on the â—eads of Christian Religion Tome 2. 1. A Confession and Exposition of the Orthodox Faith 2. A Declaration proving the Protestant Churches â—o be neither Hereticall nor Scismaticall 3. A Compendium of the Popish and Protestant tenets 4. The old Faith and Religion 5. Of Gods eternall Covenant 6. An Assertion of the two natures in Christ. 7. Institâ—tion of Christian Matrimony 8. Instructions for the sicke 9. Declarations of Gods benefits unto the Switzers 10. Exhortations to Repentance Tome 3. 1. A Treatise of the Sabbath and of Christian â—easts 2. Of the Office of Magistrates and of an Oath 3. Of Repentance 4. Of Conversion unto God 5. An Explanation of Daniels Prophesies 6. Of the office Prophetical 7. An Exhortation unto Ministers to leave off Controversies 8. Of the Originall of Maâ—omenatisme 9. Of the Persecutions of the Church Tome 4. 1. A Preface to thâ— Latin Bible 2. Sixtie six Homilies on Daniel 3. Epitomie of the times from the Creation to the Destâ—uction of Jerusâ—lem Tome 5. 1. Homiliâ—s on Isaiah 2. Sermons on Jeremiah 3. An Exposition on the Lamentation Tome 6. 1. Commentaries on Matthew 2. Marke 3. Luke 4. John 5. Acts of the Apostles 6. A Series of times and actions of the Apostles Tome 7. 1. Commentaries on the Epistles of Saint Paul 2. Sermons on the Revelation Tome 8. 1. A Demonstration of Christian perfection to Henry the second King of France 2. Of the authority of the Scripture 3. Of the Iâ—stitution of Bishops Never could worth lodge in a richer brest Those blessings he enjoy'd made others blest He was compos'd of sweetnesse and his heart Was alwayes cheerefull willing to impart The truth to them that studyed how to grieve For sin and would prove willing to believe He was laborious and he could expresse Hatred to nothig more then Idelnesse Grave Doctors of those times would then submit To his profound incomparable wit For his grave judgment was so highly pris'd That most would act what Bullengeâ— advis'd Is it not â—iting then that we should give Due praise to him whose worth will make him live The Life and Death of Edward Deering who dyed Anno Christi 1576. EDward Deering was borne of a very ancient family in Kent and carefully brought up both in Religion and Learning From School he went to Cambridge and was admitted into Chrisâ—'s College where he profited exceedingly and became a very famous Preacher as may appear by his most learned and holy Sermons and Tractates full of heavenly consolation He never affected nor sought after great titles of preferments and therefore rested content with his Fellowship in that Colledge and only Comensed Batchelor of Divinity yet afterwards he was made a Preacher in S t. Pauls Church in London and having worn out himselfe with his labours in the worke of the Lord he fell sick and discerning his approaching death he said in the presence of his friends that came to visit him The good Lord pardon my great negligence that whilest I had time I used nâ—t his precious gifts to the advancement of his glory as I might have done Yet I blesse God withall that I have not abused these gifts to ambition and vain studies When I am once dead my enemies shall be reconciled to me except they be such as either knew me not or have no sence of goodnesse in them for I have faithfully and with a good conscience served the Lord my God A Minister standing by said unto him It is a great happinesse to you that you dye in peace and thereby are freed from those troubles which many of your brethren are like meet with To whom he answered If God hath decreed that I shall sup together with the Saints in heaven why doe I not goe to them but if there be any doubt or hesitation resting upon my spiâ—it the Lord will reveale the truth unto me When he had layen still a while a friend said unto him that he hoped that his minde was employed in holy meditation whil'st he lay so silentâ— to whom he answered Poore wretch and miserable man that I am the least of all Saints and the greatest of Sinners yet by the eye of Faith I beleeve in and look upon Christ my Saviour yet a little while and we shall â—ee â—ur hope The end of the world is come upon us and we shall quickely receive the end of our hope which we have so much looked for Afflâ—ctions deseases sicknesse griefe are nothing but part of that portion which God hath allotted to us in this world Iâ—'s not enough to begin for a little while execept we persevere in the fear of the Lord all thâ— dayer of our lives for in a moment we shall be taken away Takâ— heed therefore that you doe not make a pastime of nor dis-esteem the Word of God blessed are they that whil'st they have tongues use them to God's glory When he drew near to his end being set up in his bed some of his friends requested him to speak something to them that might be for their â—dification and comfort whereupon the Sun shining in his face he took occasion from thence to say thus unto them There is but one Sun in the world nor but one Righteousnesse one Communion of S ts â— If I were the most excellent of all creatures in the world if I weâ—â— equall in righteousnesse to Abraham Isaac and Jacob yet had I reason
to confesse my selfe to be a sinner and that I could expect 〈◊〉 salvation but in the righteousnesse of Jesus Christâ— For we all staâ—d in need of the Grace of God And as for my death I blesse God I feel and find so much inward joy and comfort to my soul that if I were put to my choyse whether to die or live I would a thousand times rather chuse death then life if it may stand with the holy wiâ—â— of God and accordingly shortly after the slept in the Lord Anno Christi 1576. What greater Simptomes can there be of grace Then to be penitent the greatest race A Christian can desire to run is this Fron earths base centre to eternall blisse This race our Deering run he spent his time Whilest here he liv'd in studying how to clime To Heav'ns high Court true vâ—â—tue was his prize And God the object where he fixt his eyes Faith Hope and Charity did sweetly rest Within the Councell Chamber of his brest And to conclude the graces did agree To make a happy soul and that was he The Life and Death of Flacius Jlliricus who dyed Anno Christi 1575. MAtthias Flacicus Illiricus was born in Albona in Sclavoâ—a Anno Christi 1520. his Father whil'st he lived broâ—ght him up in learning careâ—ully but after his dâ—ath his Masters so neglected him that he almost forgot all but when he began to have discretion he desired much to attaine to learning and for that end he went to Venice and after some progresse made at seventeen years old he began to â—tudy Divinity but wanting meanes to maintain him in the University he profered halfe his estate to be admitted into a Monastery either at Bononia or Padua but a friend diâ—swading him from that kinde of life advised him rather to goe into Germany where were store of learned men He went therefore to Basil where he studied under Grynaeus and from thence to Tubing where also he studied a while and then went to Wiâ—tenbâ—rg Anno Christi 1541. where he privately taught Greek and Hebrew for hiâ— maintenance and heard Luther and Melancthon He was much troubled there with temptations about sin God's wrath and Predestination but by the good councell of Pomeâ—â—ne and Luther and the publick prayers of the Church for him it pleased God that he overcame them Melancthon loved him much for his wit and learning there he was made Master of Arts married a wife and had a stipend allowed him by the Prince 〈◊〉 But when by reason of the Wars that University was dissipated he went to Bâ—â—nswiâ—ke got much credit by his publick teaching but the Wars being ended he return'd to Wittenberg Anno 1547. But when the Interâ—m came forth and Melancthon thought that for peace-sake som thing should be yeelded to in things indifferent Flacius with many other Divines strongly opposed it as opening a gap to the retnrne of Popery whereupon he removed from thence to Magdeburg where he strongly opposed whatsoever was contrary to the Augustine Confession there alsâ— he assisted in writing the Magdeburgenses Centuries And wheâ— the Duke of Saxony had erected an University at Ieans he sent for him thither Anno Christi 1556. but after five years a great contention arising between Strigelius and him about Free-will he left that place and went to Ratisbone â— anâ— Anno Christi 1567. the Citizens of Anâ—werp having proâ—â—â—â—â— liberty for the free exercise of the Reformed Religion sent for Flacius amongst others thither but Religion being quickly expelled thence he went to Argentine and from thence to Franckefurt upon the Main where after a while falling out with the Ministers about the Essence of Originall Sin he fell into great disgrace and not long after dyed Anno Christi 1575. and of his age 55. He was of an unquiet wit alwayes contending with some or other and brought much griefe to Melancthon yet wrote some excellent works for the benefit of the Church and amongst oothers his Catalogus Testium Veritatis He was a man as some reported fit To be the Master of unquiet wit He was contentious which brought discontent To rare Melancthon yet some time he spent In serious studyes leaving at his death Rare workes behind to give his fame a breath The Life and Death of Josias Simlerus who dyed Anno Christi 1576. IOsias Simlerus was born in Helvetia Anno Christi 1530. his father was a godly learned and prudent man by whom he was carefully brought up in learning and at fourteen years of age he was sent to Tygure where he lived in Bullingeâ—'s family who was his godfather almost two years from thence he went to the University of Basil where he studied the Arts and Tongues one year and from thence he went to Argentine where he made a further progresse in those studies and at the end of three yeares he returned to his fathers with whom he spent his time in study and teaching a School and sometimes also preaching Anno Christi 1552. he began publickly to expound the New Testamâ—nt beginning in Matthew in Tygure being twenty two yeares old which worke he performed with great judgement fidelity and diligence having not onely many of that City to be his hearers but many Exiles especially of the English also four years after he was made Deacon and went on in his former worke with admiration so that he was highly prized by all Bibliander being grown very old Simler supplyed his place and was Collegue to Peter Martyr who fore-told that Simler was like to prove a great ornament to the Church who also when he dyed expressed much joy that he should leav so able a man to succeed him Simler besides his publick labours instructed many also in private and amongst them some Noblemen both in sacred and humain learning he had such an acute wit and strong memory that he was able Extempore to speak of any subject and to answer his friends questions out of any author and to give an account of their wrintings to the great admiraâ—tion of the hearers and though in reading of bookes he seemed to run over them very superficially yet when he had don he was able to give an exact account of any thing that was in them and being so troubled with the gout that many times he was confined to his bed and had the use of none of his members but his tongue onely yet in the mid'st of his pains he used to dictate to his amanuensis such things as were presently printed to the great admiration of learned men besides the gout he was much troubled with the stone so that the pains of these diseases together with his excessive labors in his Ministry hastened his immature death which he also fore-saw yet without any consternation or feare but by his frequent and fervent prayers to God he endeavored to fit himselfe for it and accordingly Anno Christi 1576. he resigned up his spirit unto God being forty five years old and was buried in
Peter Martyr's tomb he was of a very loving and gentle nature free from passion very charitable spending all his Patrimony upon the poor and strangers and such as came thither to study he entertained them in his house and often feasted his friends with whom he would be very merry otherwise he was very sparing of speech He delighted much in history he had two wives the first of which was Bullinger's daughter who dyed without issue by the second he had three sons and one daughter He was a man whose life and conversation Furnish'd both eyes and eares with admiration He was so pithy in his speech that those Which heard him gave a plaudit to his close He alwayes meditated how to be A perfect Scholler in Divinity He liv'd in Peace his heart was still contented His life was well belov'd his death lamented The life and death of Immanuall Tremelius who dyed Anno Christi 1580. IMmanuell Tremelius was born in Ferara having a Jew to his father who so educated him that he was very skilfull in the Hebrew tongue He was converted by Peter Martyr and went with him to Lucca where he taught Hebrew from thence he went with him also to Argentine and from thence into England under King Edward the sixt after whose death he returned into Germanie and in the Schoole â—f Hornback under the Duke of Bipont he taught Hebrew fâ—om thence he was called to Heidleberg under Frederick the third Elector Palatine where he was professor of the Hebrew tongue and translated the Syriack Testament into Latine There also he set upon the translation of the Bible out of Hebrew and associated to himselfe in that worke Francis Iunius From thence also he removed to Seden at the request of the Duke of Bulloin to be the Hebrew-Profesâ—sor in his new University where he dyed Anno 1580. and of his Age seventy This rars Hebritian though at first confâ—n'd To Iewish principles at last inâ—lin'd Himselfe to goodnesse and imploy'd his heart To trace and follow a diviner art And so improv'd himselfe that he became From a small sparke a most aspiring flame And at the last he lay'd his â—empels downe In Abr'ams bosome and receiv'd a Crowne The Life and Death of Peter Boquine who dyed Anno Christi 1582. PEter Boquinus was borne in Aqritane and being in his youth brought up in learning he entred into a Monastery in Biturg where afterwards he was made the Prior and was very much beloved of all the Covent But it pleased God in the midst of all his riches and honors to discover the Truth to him and thereupon after the example of Luther Bucer Oâ—colampadius and Peter Martyr he resolved to leave all and to follow Christ whose example divers of the Fryars also followed From thence he went to Wittenberg travelling through Germany and by the way he went to Basil where he wintered by reason of the Plague very rise at that time in many Countries there he diligently heard the Lectures of Myconius Caralostadius and Sebastian Munster from thence he went to Lipswich where he stayed three weeks and so went to Wittenberg coming thither he had some converse with Luther but more with Melancthon and whilst he was there Bucer â—ent to Melancthon to request him to send an able man to Argentine to supply Calvins place who was now gone backe to Geneva whereupon Melancthon requested Boquine to goe thither which he accordingly did and began to read upon the Epistle to the Galatians Shortly after Peter Martyr came thither also But Boquine finding that the Ecclesiasticall and Scholasticall affaires went but slowly forward in that place upon the request of a friend he resolved to goe backe into France and so taking Basil in his way he went to Geneva where he heard Cavin preach and from thence to Biturg where hoping that the French Churches would have been reformed he began to read Hebrew and to expound the Scriptures About that time Francis King of France being dead the Queen of Navar came into those parts about the marriage of her daughter to whom Boquine went and presented her with a booke about the necessity and use of the holy Scriptures whereupon she undertooke his Patronage and allowed a yeerly stipend appointing him to Preach a publicke Lecture in the great Church in Biturg which place he continued in so long as he had hope of doing any good but when he saw that there was no hope of any further Reformation and that his enemies lay in wait for his life he gave it over of his own accord yet the Fryars and Papists would not let him alone but cited him to the Parliament at Paris and afterwards brought him before the Archbishop of Biâ—urg so that he was in great perill of his life but God raised up some good men to stand for him whereby he was delivered from the present danger then he resolved to flye into England but hearing of King Edward's death he altered his purpose and by the perswasion of a friend he resolved to return to his people in Germanie and so accordingly he went to Argentine and when he had scarce beene there a moneth it so fell out that the French Church in that place wanted a Pastor and chose him to that office yet for sundry reasons he refused to accâ—pt of it till by the perswasion of Iohn Sturmius and some other friends he was content to preach to them till they could provide themselves of another In the year 1557. he went from thence to Heidleberg being sent for by Otho Henrie Prince Elector Palatine who was about to reform his Churches there he was made the publicke Professor of Theologie and met with much oppositions and manifold contentions in that alteration which he bore with much prudence there he continued in the execution of his place twenty yeares under Otho and Frederick the third after whose death in 1576. by reason of the prevalency of the Heterodox party he with other Professors and Divines was driven from thence and it pleased God that immediately he was called to Lusanna where he performed the part of a faithfull Pastor so long as he lived In the year 1582. on a Lords day he preached twice and in the evening heard another Sermon then supped chearfully and after supper refreshed himself by walking abroad then went to visit a sick friend and whilest he was comforting of him he found his spirits to begin to sinke in him and runing to his servant he said unto him Praie saying further Lord receive my soule and so he quietly departed in the Lord in the year 1582. This loyall convert carefully did strive To make Religion and true vertue thrive By his example many Fryars went To séek for Christ and leave their discontent They banish'd former erroâ—s to imbrace The truth and fill themselves with heav'nly grace But sudden death made Bâ—quines heart to faint He liv'd a Convert and he dy'd a Saint WILLIAM GRINDALL The Life and Death of William
Grindall WIlliam Grindall was born in Cumberland Anno Christi 1519. and carefully brought up in learning first 〈◊〉 School and then in the University of Cambridge where being admitted into Pembrooke-Hall he profited so exceedingly that he was chosen first Fellow and afterward Master of that house and Bishop Ridley taking notice of his piety and learning made him his Chaplain and commended him to that pious Prince King Edward the sixt who intended to prefer him but that he was prevented by an immature death In the bloody dayes of Queen Mary Grindal amoâ—gst many others fled into Germany where he continued alâ— her raign but coming back in the begining of Queen Elizabeth she preâ—erred him to that dignity which her brother King Edward entended him to making him Bishop of London wherein he carryed himselfe worthily for about eleven years and Anno Christi 1570. he was removed by the Queen to the Archbishoprick of Yorke where he continued about six years and then for his piety and learning she made him Archbishop of Cantâ—rbury wherein he lived about seven years more and then falling sick at Croydon he resigned up his spirit unto God that gave iâ— An. Christi 1583. and of his Age 64. Both in his life and at his death he did many excellent works of Charityâ— at Saint Bees in Cumberland where he was born he erected a Free-school and endowed it with 30 l. per Annum for ever To Pembrok Hall in Cambridg where he was educated he gave 22 l. a year in Lands for the maintaining of a Greek Lecturer one Fellow and two Schollars to be chosen out of the foresaid Schoole of Saint Bees he gave also much money to the said Colledge To Magdalen Colledge in Cambridge he gave lands for the maintenance of one Fellow from the said School To Christ's Colledge in Cambridg he gave forty five pounds To Queen'â— Colledge in Oxford he gave twenty pound per Annum in lands to maintain one Fellowâ— and two Scholars out of the aforesaid School and at his death he gave his Library which was a very great and good one to that Colledge besides a great sum of mony To eight Alms-houses in Croydon he gave fifty pounds per Annum and to Canterbury he gave an hundred pounds to set the poor on work True vertue rain'd in Grindals brest His Charity bespeakes him blest He loved peace and hated those That dar'd to prove Religioâ—s foesâ— Renowned Ridley took delight To see his vertue shine so bright He like a star gave light to all That sat in darknesse pinch'd with thrall And thus this glistring star went downe And set in Heav'n with much renowne Where now he beares his part and sings Blest hallalujahs to the Kng of Kings The Life and Death of Bernard â—ilpin who dyed Anno Christi 1583. BErnard Gilpin was born at Kentmire in the County of Westmoreland Anno Christi 1517. of an ancient and honorable family when he was but a child a Fryar pretending to be a zelous Preacher came on a Saturday night to his fathers house and at supper eat like a Glutton and drank himselfe drunk yet the next morning in his Sermon sharply reproved the sin of Drunkennesse whereupon yoâ—ng Gilpin sitting near his mother cryed out Oh mother do you heare how this fellow dar's speak against drunkennesse and yet himselfe was drunken last night but his mother stopped his mouth with her hand that he might speak no further it being a mortall sin in those times to speak against these men His parents perceiving his aptnesse were carefull to make him a Scholar and when he had with great approbation passed his time in the Grammer-School they senâ— him to Oxford Anno Christi 1533. where he was admitted into Queen's Colledge and profited wonderonsly in humane learning he was very conversant also in the writings of Erasmus which were much esteemed at that time Aud to the study of Logick and Philosophy he added that of Greek and Hebrew yea after som few years spent in these studyes he grew so famous that their was no place of preferment for a Scholar whereof the eminency of his vertues had not rendered him worthy whereupon he was one of the first that was chosen a member of Christ-Church by Cardinall Wolâ—ey At that time he was not fully instructed in the true Religion but held Disputations against Iohn Hooper afterwards Bishop of Worcester as also against Peter Martyr who was then Divinity Lecturer at Oxford upon the occasion of which dispute that he might defend his cause the better he examined the Scriptures and ancient Fathers But by how much the more he studyed to defend his Cause the lesse confidence he began to have therein and so whilst he was searching zealously for the Truth he began to discern his owne Errors Peter Martyr used to say That he cared not for his other â—dversaries but saith he I am much troubled for Gilpin for he doth and speaketh all things with an upright heart and therefore he often prayed That God would be pleased at last to convert to the Truth the heart of Gilpin being so inclinable to honesty and the Lord answered his prayer for Gilpin resolved more earnstly to apply himselfe both by study and prayer to search out the Truth and it pleased God accordingly to reveal it unto him as also the many Errors of Popery and the necessity of seperating from that Apostaticall Church In the mean while Cuthbert Tâ—nstal Bishop of Durham being his Unckle resolved to send him beyond Sea to visit the Churches in forrein parts and to allow him means for his travel but before his going he was called to preach before King Edward the sixt which he performed with good approbation Then resolving upon his journey he had a Parsonage given him which Tunstal perswaded him to keep to maintain him in his travels but he sending for a friend whom he knew to be learned and religious resigned his Parsonage to him for which when it came to the knowledge of Tunstal he chid him sharply and told him That he would dye a beggar but he excused it saying That he could not keepe it with the peace of his conscience but said the Bishop thou shalt have a dispensation to whom Gilpin answered That he feared when he came to stand before Christ's tribunall it would not serve his turne to plead a Dispensation c. When he came beyond Sea he went to Lovain Antwerp and Pariâ— and after a while Tunstal sent againe to him to perswade him to accept of a Parsonage which he would confer upon him to whom he wrote backe that he had discussed it with all the learned especially with the Prophets and best writers since Christ's time so that he was fully resolved not to burthen his conscience to accept of a Change which he could not live upon c. Whilest he was at Paris Tunstal sent him over a Book which himselfe had written about the Presence of Christ in the Sacrament to be
that durst take it downe Master Gilpin requested the Sexton to take it downe who replyed That he durst not Then said Master Gilpin Bring me a staff I will take it down which accordingly he did and put it into his bosome and in his Sermon he took occation to reprove these inhumane challenges and reproved him in particular that had hug up the glove shewing them that he had taken it downe and that such practices were unbeseeming Christians and therefore he perswaded them to love and mutuall charity amongst themselves after Sermon he distributed mony amongst the poor and as his manner was visited the prisoners gave them mony and preached to them and brought many of them to repentance and for some that were condemned to die he procured pardon and saved their lives Not long after a Rebellion was raised in the North by the Earls of Northumberland and Cumberland which Master Gilpin having intelligence of resolved to retire himselfe and making a speech to the Master aud Scholars to demean themselves carefully and peaceably in his absence he went to Oxford till the Queens Army commanded by the Earl of Sussex had dissipated the Rebels but before that Army came the Rebels having seazed upon Durham some of them flew as far as Houghton and finding Master Gilpin's Barns full of corn young cattell fatted and many things provided for hospitality they made spoile of all the chiefest of which plunderers was a knave whom Master Gilpin had saved from the Gallows but when those Rebels were overthrown Master Gilpin returned home and begged the lives of many of the simpler sort whom he knew to be drawn into that Rebellion through ignorance After the death of Bishop Pilkington who was Master Gilpins faithfull friend there succeeded in the Bishoprick of Durham one Richard Barns who was offended with him upon some false suggestions which came thus about Master Gilpins custom was sometimes to goe to Oxford and once as he was upon his way he espied a young youth before him sometimes walking and sometimes runing Master Gilpin demanded of him what he was whence he came and whether he was going He answered That he came out of Wales and was bound for Oxford to be a Scholar Master Gilpin thereupon examined him and finding him a prompt Scholar for the Latin and that he had a smattering in the Greek asked him if he would goe with him and he would provide for him the youth was contented whereupon he took him with him to Oxford and afterwards to Houghton where he profited exceedingly boâ—h in Greek and Hebrew whom Master Gilpin at last sent to Cambridge and this was that famous Hugh Broughton who afterwards râ—quited evill for good by stirring up of the Bishop of Durham against Master Gilpin Now the Bishop sent to Master Gilpin to preach at a Visitation appointing time and place but it fell out just at that time when Master Gilpin was going his Northern journy into Riddesdale c. whereupon he sent his man to the Bishop desiring him to appoint som other to preach the Visitation-Sermon for that he might have many to doe that but none would goe amongst the Borderers if he did it not when his man had delivered his message to the Bishop the Bishop hâ—ld his peace which being related to M r. Gilpin he said Silence arguâ—'s consent and so went on in his journy But so soon as the Bishop heard of it he suspended him which Master Gilpin at his returne much wondred at Shortly after the Bishop sent to him to warn him to meet him and the rest of the Clergy at Chester whither Master Gilpin went and when the Bishop and Clergy were all met in the Church he said to Master Gilpin Sir I must have you preach to day Master Gilpin desired to be excused because he was unprovided and for that he was suspended But saith the Bishop I free you from that suspension Yet Master Gilpin replyed That he durst not go up into the Pulpit unprovided You are never unprovided saith the Bishop you have such an habit of preaching Master Gilpin still stifly refused sayingâ— That God was not so to â—e tempted c. Whereupon the Bishop commanded him to goe into the Pulpit forthwith Well Sir said Master Gilpin since it must be so your Lordships will be done so after a little pause went up and began his Sermon and though he saw some extraordinarily prepared to write his Sermon yet he proceeded in his application to reprove the enormities in that Diocesse And now saith he Reâ—erend Father my speech must be directed unto you God hath exalted you and will require an account of your Goveâ—nment a reformation of what 's amisse in the Church is required at your hands c. neither can you henceforth plead ignorance for bâ—hâ—ld I bring these things to your knowledge this day and therefore what evils you shall â—ither doe your sâ—lfe or suffer by your connivance â—ereafâ—er you make it your own câ— His friends hearing him thuÌ„der out these things much feared what would become of him and after Sermon some of â—hem told him with tears That now the Bishop had that advantage against him which he had long looked for c. to whom he answered Be not affraid the Lord God over-ruleth all aâ—d if God â—ay be glorified and his Truth propagated Gods will be done â—onâ—erning â—ee After they had dined together all men exspecting the issue of this businesse Master Gilpin went to take his leave of thâ— Bishop Nay said the Bishop I will bring you home and so went along with him to his house and walked there together in a Parlour the Bishop took him by the hand saying Father Gilpin I acknowledge you are fitter to be Bishop of Durham then my selfe to be Parson of your Church I aske forgivenessâ— for errors past forgive mâ— Father I know you have hatched 〈◊〉 some chickens that now seek to pick out your eyes but be sure so long as I am Bishop of Durham no man shall injure you Master Gilpin and his friends much rejoyced that God had so over-ruled thingsâ— that that which was purposed for his disgrace should turn to his greater credit His body being quite worn out with pains-taking at last he feeling before hand the approach of death commanded the poor to be called together unto whom he made a speech and took his leave of them He did the like also to others made many exhortations to the Scholars to hiâ— servants and to diverse others aud so at the last he fell asleep in the the Lord March the fourteenth An. Christi 1583. and of his Age 66. He was tall of stature slender and hawk-nosed his clothes not costly but frugal in things that belonged to his own body bountifull in things that tended to the good of others especially to the Poor and Scholars His dooreâ— were still open to the poor and strangers he boorded and kept in his owne house twenty four Scholars most of
them poor mens sons upon whom he bestowed meat drink apparell and learning Having a great Parish he entertained them at his table by course every Sabbath from Michaelmasse to Easter He bestowed upon his School and for stipends upon the Schoolmasters the full sum of five hundred pounds out of which School he supplyed the Church of England with great store of learned men He was carefull not onely to avoid all evill but the least appearance of it Being full of faith unfeigned and of good works he was at last put into his grave as an heap of wheat in due time put into the garner What pen can be susficient to set forth Th'exuberous praises of brave Gilpins worth Though at the first his heedlesse soul did stray And ramble in a foule erronious way Yet at the last he left those paths which bended Unto distruction and his follyes ended Then he began to exercise the truth And hate the former errours of his youth His soul was fil'd with piety and peace And as the truth so did his joyes encrease His fame soone spread abroad his worth was hurl'd Through every corner of th'inquiring world And to conclude in him all men might find A reall heart and a most noble minde The life and death of Zachary Ursin who dyed Anno Christi 1583. ZAchary Vrsin was born in Silesia Anno Christi 1534. of honest parents who were carefull of his education in his childhood and having profited exceedingly at School he was sent to the University of Wittenberge at sixteen yeers old where he heard Melancthon with great diligence two years at which time the Plague breaking forth there he retired with Melancthon to Tergaw and having an ample testimony from him he went thence into his owne Country all the winter but in the spring he returned to Wittenberg where he spent 5. years in the study of the Arts Tongus and Divinity he was very familiar with Melancthon and much esteemed of many learned men who flocked to that University out of all Countries with whom also afterwards he kept correnspondency he went An. Christi 1557. with Melancthon to the conference at Worms about religion and from thence he travelled to Marpurg Argentine Basil Lausanna and Geneva where he grew into familiar acquaintance with many learned men especially Calvin who gave him such books as he had Printed from thence he went into France to Lions and Paris where he perfected his skill in the Hebrew under the learned Mercerus in his return he went to Tigure where he acquainted himselfe with the learned men and so to Tubing Vlme Norimberg and so to his old Master Melancthon Anno Christi 1558. he was sent for by the Senate of Vratislave which was his native place to govern a School there where besides his Lectures in the Arts and Tongues he was imployed in the explication of Melancthons book of the Ordination of Miniâ—ters wherein he declared his judgment about the Sacrament and thereupon he was cried out agaainst for a Sacramentarian which caused him to give a publick account of his Faith about the Doctrine of the Sacraments in certain strong and accurate propositions Melancthon hearing of the opposition which he met with wrote to him to stand firmly to the truth and if he enjoyed not pâ—ace in that place to return to him againe and to reserve himselfe for better times whereupon he requested of the Senate that he might be dismissed and having obtained his desire he returned to Wiâ—tenberg where foreseeing Melancthons death and the greaâ— alterations in that University he left it and went to Tygure Anno 1560. being invited thither by Martyr Bullinger Simler Lavater Gualter Gesner and Frisius who much desired his company there he was a constant hearer of Martyr and profited much under him in the knowledge of Divinity Anno 1561. their came letters to Tigure from Thomas Erastus signifying that there wanted a Divinity Professor at Heidleberg and desiring supply from thence whereupon knowing Vrsines fitnesse they presently sent him with their letters of ample commendation both to the Elector Palatine and to the University where he discharged his place so well that at twenty eight years of age they graced him with the title of a Doctor in Divinity and he supplyed the place of a publick Professor to the year 1568. at which time Zanchy succeeded him their also he made his Catechise for the use of the Pallaâ—inate Anno Chriâ—ti 1563. there brake forth a grievous pestilence that scattered both the Court and University yet Vrsin remained at home and wrote his tractates of Mortallity and Christian consolations for the benefit of Gods people He was so dear to the Elector Palatine that when the Bernates sent Aretius to Heidleberg to crave leave that Vrsin might goe to Lusanna to be the Divinity Professor there he would by no means part with him but gave him leave to choose an assistant that so his body might not be worn out with his dayly labors Anno Ch. 1572. he married a wiâ—e by whom he had one son that inherited his fathers vertues But upon Prince Fredricks death their grew a great alteration in the Palatinate insomuch that none but Lutherans could be suffered to continue thâ—râ— so that Vrsin with his Collegue were forced to leave the University but he could not live private long for he was sent for by Prince Iohn Chassimire also the Senate of Berne sent importunatly for him to succeed Aretius there But Cassimire would by no meanes part with him having erected a University at Newstad and chosen Vrsin and Zanchy to be the Divinity Professors thereof But Vrsin by his excessive studies and neglect of exercise fell into a sicknesse which held him above a year together after which he returned to his labors againe and besides his Divinity Lectors he read Logik also in the Schools desiring his auditors to give him what doubts and objections they met with which upon study at his next Lecture he returned answers to But his great labors cast him into a consumption and other diseases yet would he not be perswaded to intermit them till at last he was confined to his bed yet therein also he was never idle but alwayes dictating something that might conduce to the publick good of the Chuch The houre of death being come his friends standing by he quietly slept in the Lord Anno Christi 1583. and of his age 51. He was very pious and grave in his carriage and one that sought not after great things in this world Let those whose hearts desire to be Professor of Divinity Trace Ursins steps so shall they find The comforts of a studious minde He had a greater care to nurse Distressed souls then fill his purse He would not tell a frutlesse story Unto his flock his oratory Serv'd not flatter but to bring Subjected souls unto their King Where now he rests with him that says Shephards of Flocks look to your wayes The Life and Death of Abraham Bucholtzer
who dyed Anno Christi 1584. ABraham Bucholtzer was born at Schovavium in the year 1529. and from his infancy brought up by his Parentâ— in Religion and Learning When he was first set forth to School he profited to admiration outstripping all his Schoolfâ—llows by his acute wit and industry and being well pâ—incipled at Schoole he went to the University at Wittâ—nberg Accounting it his great happinesse that he was borne after the light of the Gospell brakâ— forth and bred up under Mâ—lancthon upon whose Lectures he attended diligenâ—lâ— and â—ucked in from him not onely the principles of Learning but of Religion also About that time there spâ—ang up many errors but by the helpe of Melancthon he was able both to discover and confute them There also he studied Grâ—â—k and Hebrew When he was six and twenty years old he went from thence into Silesia to visit his friends and to see the chiefest Cities and whilst he was there the Senate oâ— Grunberg consulted about the erecting oâ— a School in that Câ—ty and for the aâ—vancement of the same they chose Bucholtzer to be the Master thereof and sent to him by Luke Cunon who was their Pastor desiring him to undertake that office Hereupon he asked Melancthons advice who much encouraged him to accept of the place saying Quantum solatium est pio paedagogâ— assidentibus caâ—stis angelis sedere in coeâ—u incontaminato juniorum qui Deo placent docere tenera ingenia ut rectè agnoscant invocent Deum deinde organa fiant utilia Ecclesiae suis animabus Upon his advice therefore he went thither in the year 1556. and by his excellent abilities and diligence he quickly made that place which before was obscure to become famous Scholars resorting to him from all parts whom he bred up both in Religion and Learning and fitted them so excellently for the University that Melancthon never questioned any that came from his School saying Hoc est persuasum sibi habere â—udes impolitos esse non posse qui à politissimi judicii homine Abrahamo Bucholâ—zero essent informati That he was verily perswaded that they could not be rude or unfitting for the University that came from under the tuition of Abraham Bucholtzer who himselfe was a man of so polite a judgement In the year 1559. he married a wife who proved a great comfort to him and by whom he had many children whom he tendered exceedingly and educated them in the fear of God from their very infancy He grew so famous all over Silesiâ— that many desired to have him for their Pastor and at last Sprottavia enjoyed him where he continued doing much good to 1573. at which time Catharine the relict of Henry Duke of Brunâ—wick sent for him to her Court to whom he went partly by reason of his great engagements to that Family but especially because he enjoyed not his health in Sprottavia The year after this pious Lady dyed he then was called to Eleutheropolis by Euphemia the wife of Sir Fabian Belloquert he Preached â—here in the great Câ—â—rch to which the Citizens flocked exceedingly insomuch as when that pious and illustrious Ernest Prince of Anhalt sent for him and profered him an honorable stipend he refused to leave his place He had an excellent sweetnesse and dexterity in Preaching was of a sound judgment and holy life His Sermons were so piercing that he never Preached but he wrought wonderfully upon the affections of his hearers If any were cast down under the sence of sin and wrath he exceedingly comâ—orted them If any were troubled with tentations and afflictions he raised them up c. He had a lively voyce lively eye lively hand and such were all his gestures also his Ministery was so gratefull that his hearers were never weary or thought hiâ— Sermons too long He was full of self-deniall insomuch as that excellent Lady Catherine of Brandenburg used to say that all the rest of her Courtiers and Family were alwayeâ— craving something of her Bucholtzer on the contrary never asked her for the worth of a farthing yea he refusâ—d gifts when they were profered to him preferring kindnesse before the gift the fruit of his Ministery before the reward of it He was so humble that when his friends blamed him for living in so obscure a place whilst he taught Schoole he told them that he preferred it before a Kingdome he could never endure to hear himself commended and if his friends in their letters had written any thing to his praise he could not read it with patience sed terreri se laudationibus illis tanquam fulminibus dicebat qui nihil in se magni videret c. His candor was such that he never spake or wrote any thing but from his heart he never read or heard any thing from others but he made a candid construction of it His care in his publick Ministery was to avoid those questionâ— that doe but gender unto strife and to instruct his auditors how to live well and dye well He spent his spare houreâ— in reading Ecclesiasticall and Profane histories and profited so much thereby that one affirmed in writing universam antiquitatem in Bucholtzeri pectuscuol latuisse reconditam that all antiquity lay hid in his breast he finding som great errors in Funccius his Chronology set himselfe to write one which with indefatigable pains he brought to perfection whilst he thus publickly and privately busied himselfe he fell into a grievous disease and just about the same time he lost his faithfull and beloved yoak fellow that was the Mother of nine children but upon his recovery he married another with whom he lived not long before the Lord put an end to all his labours and sorrowes Anno Christi 1584. and of his Age 55. Religion Learning both agreed to met And make Bucholtzer prove their winding sheet Nay and their Sepulchre for there they lay Imbracing in his little lumpe of Clay He loved vertue and his heart dispis'd To follow that which Papists had devis'd His balmy language heald the bleeding hearts Of them whose consciences retain'd the darts Of wounding sin his soul still took delight To bring them out of darkenesse into light But since hee 's gon what can we say but this He rested here with love In heaven with blisse The Life and Death of John Wigandus who dyed Anno Christi 1587. JOhn Wigandus was born in Mansfield in the year 1523. of honest Parents of a middle ranke who carefully brought him up in Learning which naturally he was much addicted unto having an excellent wit and firme memory so that having profited much at School he went to the University of Wittenberg where he continued about three years which time he spent in the studiâ— of the Arts and Tongues which night and day he imployed himselfe in and in the year 1541. by the advice of his Tutors and friends he went to Norinberg where he was made Master of the School
and for three years exercised himselfe with much diligence in instructing youth but having an earnest desire to perfect his own studies he returned to Wittenberg again Luther being yet living there he commensed Master of Arts before he was two and twenty years old and applyed himself wholly to the study of Divinity but tht Wars waxing hot the Emperor placed a Garrison in the Castle and Towne of Wittenberg and the Students were driven away from thenceâ— at which time Wigand was called to Mansfield his owne Countrey to be an assistant to their ancient Pastor Martin Seligman where also he was ordained Minister by Prayer and imposition of hands by Iohn Spangâ—rberg the Superintendent there which place he discharged wiâ—h much â—â—delity and industry and read Logick and Phylosophie to the youth in the Schools there also he wrote a confutation of the Popish Catechisme and a confutation of George Mâ—jor who held That a man by Faith onely is justified but not saved c. He delighted exceedingly in a Garden and in observing the wisdome of God in the nature shape and various colours of Hearbs and Flowers for which end he gatt the greatest varietie of them that possibly he could into his Garden He was one of those that strongly opposed the Interim In the year 1553. he was chosen by them of Magdeburg to be their Superintendent but the Earl of Mansfield and thâ— People strongly opposed his remove from them yet at last by the meanes of the Prince of Anhalt they consented unto it At Magdeburg he tooke excessive paines in reading writing meditating and Preaching whereby he converted many Popish Priests in those parts to the Truth he also took great pains in writing the Magdeburgenses Centuries which he together with Matthew Iudex Flacius Illiricus Basil Faber Andrew Corvinus and Thomas Holthuterus finished to the great benefit of the Church Of which booke Sturmius gave his Testimony that it was necessary and profitable and had these four vertues in it viz. veritatem diligentiam ordinem perspicuitatem Truth diligence Order and perspicuity In the year 1560. the Elector of Saxonie having begun a University at Ienes sent earnestly to Wigand to come thither to be the Divinity Professor which for weighty reasons he assented unto and performed that office with much acceptance of all that heard him yet by the subtilty and malice of one Stosselius he was dismissed from that place and so returned to Magdebâ—rg againe but not staying there he was chosen to be the Superintendent at Wismare An. Cstristi 1562. where he imployed himselfe wholly in Preaâ—hing disputing expounding the Scripture and governing the Church Anno Christi 1563. he commenced Doctor of Divinity in the University of Rostoch he stayed at Wismare seven years at the end wherof Iohn William Duke of Saxony sent for him againe to Ienes but the Duke of Megapole would by no meanes part with him yet at last after severall embassies the Duke of Saxony prevailed that he should come for one year to Ienes His people parted with him very unwillingly with many sighs and tears and at the years end sent for him back againe but could by no means obtaine his return he was not onely made the Professor of Divinity at Ienes but the Superintendent also Anno Christi 1570. he went with his Prince to the Diet at Spire and at his returne to Ienes was received with great joy but after five years Duke Iohn William dying he was againe driven from thence and went to the Duke of Brunswick who entertained him kindly but presently after he was called into Borussia to be the Divinity Professor in the University of Regiomonâ—anum and after two years was chosen to be Bissiop there Anno Christi 1587. he fell sick especially upon griefe conceived for the afflicted condition of the Church in Poland and the death of his deare friend Iohn Wedman an excellent Divine this desease increasing and his strength decaying he prepared himselfe for death he made his own Epitaph In Christo vixi morior vivóque Wigandus Do sordes morti caetera Christe tibi In Christ I liv'd and dy'd through him I live again What 's bad to death I give my soul with Chist shal raign And so in the mid'st of fervent prayers and assured hope of eternall life he resigned up his spirit into the hands of God that gave it Anno Christi 1587. and of his Age 64. Rare-soul'd Wigandus bow'd his whole desires To warme his spirits by th'inlivning fires Of sacred fuell and he alwayes stood Engag'd to that which heav'ns blest mouth call'd good He was a man whose life and conversation Were well sufficient to adorne a Nation With good examples nothing could devorse His ready lips from the belov'd discourse Of heavenly matters till at last he cry'd My God receive my soul and so he dy'd MARTINVS CHEMNICIVS The Life and Death of Martin Chemnisius MArtin Chemnisius was born at Britâ—â—a in Old March Anno Christi 1522. his father being poor he met with many impediments to discourage and hinder him in Learning yet bearing a great love to it by his exceeding industry he overcame all and after some progresse at home he went to Magdeburg where he studyed the Tongues and Arts and from thence to Frankefurt upon Oder and after he had studyed there a while he went to Wittenberg where he studyed the Mathematickâ— and from thence to Sabinum in Borussia where he taught School and commensed Master of Arts and Anno Christi 1552. he wholly betook himselfe to the study of Divinity By his modest and sincere carriage he procured much favor from the Prince and all his Courtiers after three years stay there he went back to Wittenberg and by Melancthon was imployed publickly to read Common places from thence he was sent for to Brunople â—n Saxny by the Senate and made Pastor which place he discharged with singular fidelity and approbation for the space of thirty years and commensed Doctor in Divinity at Rostoch many Princes and Common-wealths made use of his advice and assistance in Ecclesiasticall affairs He took great pains in asserting the truth against the adversaries of it as his excellent Examen of the Tridentine Councill shews at last being worn out with study writing Preaching c. he resigned up his spirit unto God Anno Christi 1586. and of his age 63. He is said by one to be Philosophus Summus Theologus proâ—undissimus neque veritatis bonarumque artiâ—m studio neque laude officii facâ—le cuiquam secundus This Authour eminent Chemnisius grave Among these worthies a prime place may have Who by his most industrious pains ore came The many rubs which would have quentcht his fame And to such height of learning did arise As made great Princes him most highly prize Yea so transcendently his fame did shine That One him stil'd a most profound Divine A prime Philosopher one justly known For parts and pâ—ety second to none And thus he liv'd and dyed
full of yeeres And with much honour left this vail of teares The Life and Death of Rodolphus Gualterus who dyed Anno Christi 1586. ROdolphus Gualter was born in Tigure Anno Christi 1518. was of an excellent wit and therefore carefully brought up at School where he first profited exceedingly in Oratory and Poetry and being admitted into the University he became famous first in the knowledge of the Arts and afterwards of Divinity insomuch as he waâ— chosen Pastor in that City where he first drew in his vitall breath neither were they which chose him deceived in their exspectation for he proved an admirable instrumenâ— of Gods glory and their good discharging his place with singular industry diligence and fidelity not onely by hiâ— frequent publick preaching but by his learned private writingâ— as his Homilies upon much of the Old and Nâ—w Testament doe sufficiently declare and having governed and fed that Church for above forty years together he dyed in a good old age Anno Christi 1586. anp of his Liâ—â— sixty eight Uertue and honor both combin'd T' adorne Gualterus his minde His wise and well composed heart Was principlâ—d in every part He was a Poet too ti 's therefore fit We should applaud his rare Poeticke wit The Life and Death of Casper Olevian who dyed Anno Christi 1587 â— CAsper Olevian was born in Trevir Anno Christi 1536â— and carefully brought up in learning by his Grandfather and at thirteen years old he was sent to Paris to study Law from thence also he went to the Universities of Aurelia and Biturg where he heard the most famous Lawyers of those times he joyned himselfe also to the Congregation of Protestants which met privately together in that place there he was admitted into the Order of Lawyers after the solemn manner of the University Anno Christi 1557. about which time there studied in that University under Nicolas Iudex the young Prince Palatine â— son to Fredericke the third afterwards Elector and Olevian being very intimate with Iudex went one day after dinner to the river hard by the City together with him and the young Prince and when they came thither they found som yong Noble Germans that were students there going into aboat who desired the Prince and his Tutor to goe over the River with them But Olevian perceiving that they had drunk too freely disswaded them from adventuring themselves amongst them which councell the Prince and his Tutor neglecting went into the boat and putting from the bank the drunken young men began so to thrust and jusâ—le one another that at last they overthrew the boat where they were all drowned But Iudex being skilfull in swimming caught the young Prince hoping to save him but being unable to draw him with him they both sunk Olevian standing on the bank and seeing this sad spectacle leap't into the water to try if he could help them but at first he stuck into the mud and water up to the chin where he dispaired of his owne life in that danger he prayed unto God and vowed that if God would deliver him he would preach the Gospell to his owne Citizens At which time it pleased God that a footman of one of the Noblmens coming to the river side seeing of him caâ—ght him by the hand thinking that it had ben his own master and drew him out whereupon Olevian being delivered together with the Law studyed Divinity especially reading over Calvins Commentaries diligently and then returning to Trevir he was retained to plead a cause thâ—re but seeing the great deceit in that calling he gave it over and that he might performe his Vow he wholly set himselfe to the study of Divinity aud went to Geneva and after to Tigure where he was much holpâ—n by Martyr and Bullinger and after taking ship at Lusanna to goe to Genevaâ— Farrell hapned to be with him in the ship who in disconâ—â— asked him Whether he had ever preached in his ownâ— Country which he denying Farrell perswaded him to doâ— it so soon as he could and he accordingly promised that he would therefore Anno Christi 1559. he returned to Tâ—â—vir and was by the Senate his friends requested to undâ—â— take the work of the Ministry there and for his encouragement they allowed him a stipend he readLogick also in the School but when he began to preach the Truth of Chriâ—â— and to discover the Errors in Popery he was forbiddenâ— by the Clergy to preach any more and shut out of the School Then the Senate appointed him to preach in an Hospitall where after he had preached a while his adversariessuborned a Priest to step up into the Pulipt before himâ— but as soon as the people saw the Priest they called to him to come down for that they would not hear him Olevian desired them to hear him promising that so soon as he had don his Sermon he would preach himselfe but they would not endure it but made a great stir so that the poor Priest thought that he should have been pulled a pieces by them but Olevian inâ—reating the people to be quiet took him by the hand and led him forth safely and going into the pulpit himself the people cried to him We desire thee for Gods sake to preach unto us for this cause the Archbishop of Trevir imprisoned the two Consulâ— and eight more of the Senators for ten weeks who desired Olevian to come to them to instruct and comfort them which accordingly he did but afterwards they were all freed at the request of the Elector Palatine and some others and the Elector Palatine sent for Olevian to Heidleberge where he made him Rector of a Colledge about which time he married a wife and commensed Doctor in Divinity and was made a Professor of Divinity in that University he was also called to a Pastorall charge in the City which he carefully and holily discharged till the death of the Elector Fredericke the third and shortly after he was called to Berleburg by Lodewicke Count Witgenstein where he Preached and instructed some Noble mens sons In the year 1584. he was called by Iohn of Nassau to Herborn where he preached and taught in a School three years Anno Christi 1587. he fell into a mortall sicknesse which notwithstanding all means of oure daily grew upon him and so weakned him that at last he quietly resigned up his spirit unto God In his sicknesse he made his Will and by pious and holy meditations prepared himselfe for death being visited by some great men he told them That by that sicknesse he had learned to know the greatnesse of Him and the greatnesse of Gods Majesty more then ever he did before Iohn Pisâ—â—â—ur coming to visit him he told him That the day before for four hours together he was filled with ineffable joy so that he wondred why his wife should ask him whether he were not something better when sa indeed he could never be better for said he I thought that
I was in a most pleasant meddow in which as I walked up and downe me thought that I was besprinkled with a heavenly dew and that not sparingly but plentifully powred downe whereby both my body and soule were filled with ineffable joy To whom Piscator That good shepherd of Jesus Christ led thee into fresh pastures Yea said Olevian To the springs of living waters Afterwards having repeated some sentences full of comfort out of Psalme forty two Isaiah nine and Matthew eleven he often repeated I would not have my journy to God long deferred I desire to be dissolved and to be with my Christ he gave his hand and farewell to his Collegues and friends and when he was in the Agony of death Alstedius asked him whether he was sure of his salvation in Christ â— he answered Most sure and so he gave up the Ghost Anno Christi 1587. and of his Age fifty one Nor must Olevian also be omitted But have a place of Honor fairby fitted Unto his fame among these Heroes brave Who of his Parts in Arts much witnesse gave A sound Divine to Rome an enemy Preaching Christs truth with courage constancy And who at last as he had long desir'd Exchanging earth for heaven blestly expir'd IOHN FOXE The Life and Death of John Foâ— JOhn Fox was born aâ— Bosten in Lincolnsâ—ire Anno 1517. his Parents were neither so rich as by their wealth to be exposed to envy nor so meane as by want to be lyable to contempt more enriched they were with the love of their Neighbours and most of all in having this so towardly and hopefull a Son These perceiving that nature pointed out their Son by the rare parts bestowed upon him to be a Scholar and therefore following her directions carefully bred him in learning and sent him to Brazâ—nnose Colledge in Oxford Here he was Chamber-fellow wit Alexander Nowell afterwards Doctor and Dean of Pauls and friendship betwixt them took so deep an impression in their tender years advantaged with the simpathy of their natures that it increased with their Age to be indelible These communicated their studyes together and with harmlesse emulation and loving strife whilest each endeavoured to out-strip others both surpassed themselves Hence Fox was translated and chosen Fellow of Maudliâ— Colledge whereat such as were bred in that foundation counting themselves the proper Heires to all the prâ—ferment in the House were much offended til his patience anâ— humanity reconciled them unto him so that he becamâ— not onely affected but admired And as Naturalistsâ—â— obâ—serue that Plants are meliorated by removing not abatinâ— their old but acquiring new spirits unto them so thâ—â— Scholar by changing his Soyle to a new Colledge wâ—â— thereby marvelously improved in all manner of learnâ—ing Now King Henry had lately set up a mongrell Religiâ—â— in the Land like the Toes of Nabuchadnezars jmage partlâ— Iron partly Clay one moity thereof strong with undeniâ—able Truth the other dawbed with untempered morterâ— in the six Popish Articles still retained Our young Felloâ— in the Colledgeâ— sees and sighâ— at the supâ—rstiâ—ion anâ— retiring â—imselâ—e to a grove entertaines the time with Soâ—litarinesse onely the silent midnight was witnesse to hiâ— sobs and groanes He sees what but not whither to fâ—â—â—â— but at last resolves hereafter to absent himselfe from tâ—e Romish Church Hereupon being accused for a Separatist and unwilling to over purchase his safety at the price of â— lye he is conventâ—d and expelled the Colledge But because Theeves must be thanked for giving what they doe not take away his enemies challenged Commendation due to their courtisâ— because they took not Foxes life from him according to the Severity of the Laws then in force By this time his owne Father was dead and his Mother married againe Fox repairâ—s to his Father in law for succour but finds no entertainment For as when a hunted Deere châ—sed with the Hounds taketh sanctuary by flying to the rest of the herd they out of a Principle of self preservation drive him away for fear least the Hounds in persuit of him fall on them so his Father in law was loath to receive him and sorbad him the protection of his family least Persecutors in quest of his Son should bring him and his whole houshold into trouble Here it would be tedious for us but to tell and then how troublesome for him to endure in how many places this poore man lurked for fear of informers those Birds of prey which have as quick sight as sharp Talons sometimes at Sir Thomas Luceys in Warwickeshire sometimesâ— at Boston most commonly at London taken covert in that forrest of houses it being a strange truth that in such wherein are most eyes a man is least seene The Foxes saith our Saviour have holes litterally true of that cunning creature but ouâ— Fox being indeed a sheep in Innocence and Simplicity had not where to lay his head like Christ his Master But soone after hapned the death of King Henry and Edward the sixt succeeded him This put a period to his frights and flights and for five years this good man enjoyed peace and prosperity till the raigne of Queene Mary Under whom for a while he lived safe in the house of the Duke of Norfolke once his Pupill untill Gardner Bishop of Winchester that cruel Bloud-houÌ„d scenting him out designed his destruction For comming on a visit of respect to the Duke Fox casually passing by the Bishop demanded who that was my Physiâ—ian answered the Duke the Bishop replyed I like well his ingenuous countenance and when I have need will make use of him Thus Herod pretended he would worship Christ when he intended to kill him Winchester ment this Physitian should be his patient on whom he would practice with fire and faggot the usuall dosis Prescribed to all those who were accused to be infected with the Protestant Religion Now flyes our Fox beyond the Seas who escaping fire fell into as mercilesse an element of Water A terrible Tempest overtook him frighting the prophane Sea-men into their prayers and melting their hearts which might seeme made of those Rocks amongst which they sailed Hereby he was driven back againe to Yarmoâ—th but at last by Gods Providence got beyond the Seas and some months after arrived at Basil. Here he began that famouâ— worke of Acts and Monuments which he finished many years after And here making a Sermon to his fellow Exiles he plainly told them that now the Time was come for thâ—ir returne into England and that he brought them that newes by coâ—mandement from God These Words were differently censured by severall mâ—n some took them to be the evaporations of a melancholly Braine others as Words shot at random which if casually hitting the marke would afterwards be observed if otherwise would be buried in Oblivion amongst a heap of othâ—â— Expressions A third condemned them for a presumptiouâ— intrusion into Gods secrets prying into the Arke of future conâ—ingencies which
God hath vailed onely for himâ— But the successe proved them to be Propheâ—icall and thiâ— Confessour having his body macerated with fasting and prayer and other afflictions through the chinks and cleâ—â—â— thereof stole a glympse of heaven and the knowledge of future things For the day before his surrender Queene Mary dyed and now Fox with the rest of his friends hasteth home so that if feare gave them feet to runne beyond the Seas joy gave them winâ—es to flye home to their nativâ— Country Here arrived he continued and finished that worthy Worke formerly begun For as God preserved one of Iobs sâ—rvants from fire and â—ury of the Caldeans and Sabeans â— to report to Iob the losse of his fellowes so divine Providence proâ—ected this man from Martyrdome intended for him that he might be the worlds intelligencer to tell the Tidings of the number and mâ—nner of Gods worthy Saints â—nd servants who were destroyed by the cruelty of these Romish adversaries Which bad newes is very well told in his Unpartiall relation For for the maine it is a worthy Worke wherein the Reader may rather have then lack presenting it selfe to Beholders like Aetna alwayes burning whilst the smoke hath almost put out the eyes of the adverse party and these Foxes fire-brands have brought much annoyance to the Romish Philistines But it were a Miracle if in so Voluminous a Worke there were nothing to be justly reproved so great a Pomgranate not having any rottâ—n kernell must onely grow in Paradice And though perchance he held the beame at the best advantage for the Protestant party to weigh downe yet generally he is a true writer and never wilfully deceiveth though he may sometimes be unwillingly deceived Many yeares after Master Fox lived in England highly favoured by presons of quality So that it may seeme strange considering the heighth of his friends and largenesse of his deserts that he grew to no place of more honour and spread to no preferment of greater profit in the Church But this must be wholly imputed to hâ—s owne modesty in declining advancement For although the richest Myter of England would have counted it selfe preferâ—'d by being placed upon his head yet he contented himselfe onely with a Prebend of Salisbury pleased with his owne obscurity whilst others of lesse desert make greater show And whilest prouâ— people stretch out their Plumes in Ostentation he used their Vanity for his shelter more pleased to have worth then to have others take notice of it Now how learnedly he wrote how constantly he preacht how piously he lived how cheerefully he dyed may be fetcht from his life at large prefixed before his book Oâ—e passage therein omitted we must here insert having received it from witnesses beyond exception In the eighty eight when the Spanish halfe Moone did hope to rule all the motion in our Seas Master Fox was privately in his Chamber at prayers battering heaven with his importunity in behalfe of this sinfull Nation And we may justly presume that hâ—â— devotion was as actually instrumental to the victory as thâ— wisdom of our Admirable valour of his Souldiâ—rs â—kil and industry of his Sea-men On a sudden coming downe to his Family â—e cryâ—d out They are gone they are gone which indeed hapned in the same instant as by exact Computatioâ— afterwards did appeare His Liberality to the poorâ— was boundlesse so powerfull was the holy spell of the name of Jesus unto him that no poore person ever charmed him therewith but presenâ—â— raised his charitable spirit to bestow an almes upon himâ— One dâ—y Master Fox came from the Pallace of Bishop Elmer in London when a company of poore people by thâ—â— retinue he might ever be tracted importunately begged oâ— him Master Fox having no mony returned back to the Bâ—shop desiring to borrow five pound of him which waâ— readily granted and going forth diâ—tributed it amongst thâ— poore Some mounths after the Bishop asked Father Fâ—x for so he was commonly stiled for the money he owâ—d him I have laid it out quoth Master Fox for you and have payed it where you owed it to the poore People that lay at your gate The Bishop was so far from being offended with him that he thanked him for being so carefull a Steward such was the marvelous familiarity betwixt them and great respect the Bishop bore to this Holy man But Master Fox this extraordinary instance excepted did not offer free offerings of other mens goods but of hiâ— owne So great was his Bounty that it fell under the censure of excesse the streame being likely to draine the Spring and impaire his Estate But God whose Providence provideth meet helpe fellows for men fitted him with such a wife whose hands as they knew not basely to scrape so they were skilfull thriftily to keep and this excellent medley so preserved his Estate that a competency was left to his children He was not nipt in the Bud nor blasted in the blossome nor blowne downe when green nor gathered when ripe but even fell of his owne accordâ— when altogether whithered As for the timâ— of his death take it from his owne Epitaph on his Monument which for the beauty thereof beares better proportion to the outward meanes then to thâ— inward merit of his person there entombed in S t. Giles Church without Criplegate Christo S. S. Iohanni Foxo Ecclesiâ— Anglicanae Martyrolgâ— Fidelissimo Antiquitatâ—â— Historicae Indagatori sugacissimo Evangellicae veritatis Propugnatori acerrimo Thaâ—maturge admitabili Qui martyres Marianes tanquam Phoenices ex cineribus redivivos praestitit Patri suo omni pietatis officio inprimis Colendo Samuel Foxus illius Primogenitus hoc Monâ—mentum posuit non sine Lacâ—rymis Obiit die 18. mens April An. Dom. 1587. Iam septuagenarius Vita vitae mortalis est Spes vitae immortalis Rare Fox well â—urr'd with patience liv'd a life In 's youthfull age devoted unto strife For the blind Papists of those frantick times Esteem'd his vertues as his greatest Crimes The hot persuit of their ful-crying hounds Forc'd him to flyâ— beyond the lawlesse bounds Of their hot sented Malice though their skill Was great in hunting yet our Fox was still Too crafty for them though they rang'd about From place to place they could not finde him out And when they saw their plots could not prevaile To blesse their noses with his whisking â—ayle They howl'd out curses but could not obtain Their preâ— being fled their curses prov'd in vaine From whence I thinke this Proveâ—b came at first Most thrives the Fox that most of all is curst The Life and Death of George Soâ—nius who dyed Anno Christi 1589. GEorge Sohnius was born at Friburg in Wetteraw Annâ— Christi 1551. of honest parents and brought up aâ— School in learning where he sucked in the first rudimentâ— with much eagernesse and fom School went to the Unâ—versity of Marpurg at fifteen years old where he profited so exceedingly in Logick and Philosophy that he
was made Batchelor of Arts at the years end Anno Christi 1569. he went to Wittenberg where he studyed Philosophy Law and Divinity with incredible pains so that at three yearâ— end with the approbation of the whole University he waâ— made Master of Arts he intended at first the study of Lawâ— But it pleased God on a sudden so to divert his heart from it and to incline him to the study of Divinity that he could have no rest in himselfe till he had resolved upon itâ— Anno Christi 1571. he returned to Marpurg and studyed Hâ—â—brew and the year after he read the Arts to many studentâ— privately and became Tutor to three Noblemen at twenty three years old he was so famous that by the consent of all the Divines in that University he was chosen into the number and order of Professors of Divinity the year after he married a wife a choyce maid by whom he had three sons and two daughters the same year also he was chosen the Professor of the Hebrew Tongue in that University Anno Christi 1578. he was made Doctor in Divinity and falling sick about that time he made an excellent confâ—ssion of his faith But it pleasâ—d God that he recovered and was not onely a constant preacher of the truth but a strong defender of it against errors confuting the Vbiquitarians and that so boldly that he chose rather to hazard banishment then to connive at errors His fame spread abroad â—xceedingly so that many sought for him especially Iohn of Nâ—ssaw and Iohn Cassimire the Elector Palatine the first desired him to come and begin his University at Herborn where he should have had greater honor and a larger stipend the other desired him to Heidleberg to be the Divinity Professor in that place His answer was That he was born rather for labours then honours and therefore chose to goe to Heidleberg being thirty three years old and was entertained lovingly of the Prince and his coming was most gratefull to the University where he tooke exceeding great paines and was eminent for Piety Humility Gravity Prudence Patience and Industry so that in the year 1588. he was chosen into the number of the Ecclesiasticall Senators for the government of the Church He was famous for Learning Eloquence Faithfulnesse and Diligence in his place and Holinesse and Integrity in his life In the year 1589. he fell sicke for which and his change he had been carefully fitting himselfe beforehand and therefore bore it with much patience and with fervent Prayer often repeated O Christ thou art my redeemer and I know that thou hast redeemed mee I wholly depend upon thy providence and mercy from the very bottome of my heart I commend my spirit into thy hands and so he slept in the Lord Anno Christi 1589. aâ—d of his Age 38. Industrious humble prudent patient grave What other vertues that a man could have Sohnius enjoyn'd with peacefulnesse his hand Was apt to write his heart to understand He tooke delight to meditate upon The love of God his owne salvation He study'd how to dye his wel-spent breath Was but a rare preparative to death And having ended his laborious dayes He dy'd in peace and now he lives in praise The Life and Death of Laurence Humfried who dyed Anno Christi 1589. LAurence Humfried was borne in the County of Buckingâ—am and brought up at School and then sent to Oxford where he was admitted into the Colledge of Mary Magdalen and followed his Studies hard all the dayes of King Edward the sixt But in the beginning of those bloudy Marian dayes wherein so many were forced to forsake their native soyle he amongst the rest went beyond Seâ— into Germany where he continued till the beginning of Queen Elizabeths reign whom God raised up to be a nursing Mother to his Church at which time he came backe and returned to Oxford where he was very famous both for his Learning and Preaching then also he commensed Doctor in Divinity and by reason of his excellent parts hâ— was very instrumentall in the advancement of Gods glory And whereas that wicked Sect of the Jesuits was lately risen up he by his learned writings did both from Scripture and Antiquity diâ—cover their impostures and Popish deceits Afterwards he was made the Master of Magdalâ—â— Colledge and the Regius Professor which places he discharged with singular commendations for many years together and at the last quietly resigned up his spirit into the hands of God in the year 1589. Though persecuting Times pursu'd and chast This pious Father yet he still embrac'd And hugg'd the Truth his heart remained frée From persecution and captivity Those weighty words which pleasantly persu'd Out of his mouthâ— soon conquer'd and subdu'd Inticing Iesuits he made them know Their errours by a fatall overthrow Thus having labour'd with a faithfell brest Heav'n thought it fit to crown his soul with rest The Life and Death of James Andreas who dyed Anno Christi 1578. JAmes Andreas was born in Waibling in Wittenberg Anno 1538. When his father had kept him three years at School being unable to maintain him any longer he intended to have placed him with a Carpenter but being disswaded by some friends and having obtained an exhibition out of the Church-stock he sent him to Stutgard to a choyce Schoolmaster under whom in â—wo years space he learned Grammer and Rhetorick and so An. Christi 1541. he went to Tubing where he so profited that at the end of â—wo years he was made Batchelor of Arts and two years after that Master of Arts there also he studyed Hebrew and Divinity Anno Christi 1546. and of his age eighteen he was called to Stutgard where Preaching in a great Auditory he was chosen and made Deacon which place he executed so well that he presently grew famous insomuch as the Duke of Wittenberg sent for him to Preach before him in his Castle which he did with much applause at Tubing also that year he married a wife by whom he had eighteen children nine sons and nine daughters about that time brake forth that fatall war betwixt Charles the fifth and the Protestant Princes wherein the Emperor being conquerour he seized upon the Dukecome of Wittenberg by reason whereof the Church there was in a sad condition yet Andreas with his wife remained in Stutgard and by Gods speciall providence was preserved in the middest of the Spanish Souldiers and yet preached constantly and faithfully all the while and so he continued till An. Christi 1548. at which time that accursed Inâ—eirm came forth which brought so much mischiefâ— to the Church of God Andreas amongst other godly Ministers that oppsed it was driven from his place yet it pleased God that the year after he was chosen to be Deacon at Tubing where by Catechising he did very much good Anno Christi 1550. Vlriâ—ke dying his son Christopher succeeding him in the Governâ—ment of Wittenberg and affected Andreas exceedingly and would needs have
him commens D r which degree having performed all his exercises he took the twenty fifth year of his age was chosen Pastor of the Church of Gompping and made Superintendent of those parts about that time he was sent for by Lodwick Count of Oeting to assist him in the reforming of the Churches within his jurisdiction and when he took his leave of his owne Prince Christopher hâ— charged him and gave it him in writing that if Couâ—â— Lodwicke set upon that reformation that under pretence of Religion he might rob the Church and ceaze upon thâ— revenues of Monasteries and turn them to his private usâ— that he should presently leave him and come back againeâ— he assisted also in the reformation of the Churches in Heâ—â—fanstein At that time hearing of a Jew that for these wâ—â— hanged by the heels with his head downe having not seâ—â— that kind of punishment he went to the place where hâ— was hanging between two Dogs that were alwayes snatching at him to eat his flesh the poor wretch repeated iâ— Hebrew some verses of the Psalmes wherein he cryed 〈◊〉 God for mercy whereupon Andreas went nearer to hiâ—â— and instructed him in the Principles of Christian Religioâ— about Christ the Messiah c. exhorting him to beleeve 〈◊〉 him and it pleased God so to blesse his exhortation to him that the Dogs gave over tearing of his flesh and â—hâ— poore Jew desired him to procure that he might be taken down and Baptized and hung by the neck â—or the quicker dispatch which was done accordingly Aâ—dreas was of such esteeme that he was sent for by divers Princes to reform the Churches in their jurisdictions he was present at divers Synods and Disputations about Religion He travelled many thousands of miles being usually attended but with one servant yet it pleased God that in all his journies he never met with any affronâ— The year before his death he used often to say that he should not live long that he was weary of this life and much desired to be dissolved and to be with Christ which was best of all Falling sick he sent for Iames Herbrand saying I expect that after my death many adversaries will rise up to asperse me and therefore I sent for thee to hear the confession of my Faith that so thou maist testifie for me when I am dead and gone that I dyed in the true faith The same Confession also he made afterwards before the Pastors and Deacons of Tubing the night before his death he slept partly upon his bed and partly in his chair when the clock struck six in the morning he said my hour draws near he gave thankes to God for bestowing Christ for revealing of his will in his Word for giving him Faith and the like benefits And when he was ready to depart he said Lord into thy hands I commend my â—â—irit and so he fell a sleep in the Lord Anno Christi 1590. and of his Age 61. Ingenius Andreas alwayes lov'd to pry Into the bosome of Divinity He hated idlenesse and tooke delight In doing good his vertues shin'd as bright As Fame could make them and he alwayes stood A firme maintainer of the Churches good Religion was his helme by which he stéer'd His soule to heav'n and there he was endear'd To his Creator in whose Court he sings Blest halalujahs to the King of Kings HIERONYMVS ZANCHYVS The Life and Death of Hieronimus Zanchiuâ— IN the year of grace 1516. Hieronimus Zanchius descended from a Noble and renowned Family was born in Italie at a Town called Alzanum scituate in the valley Sâ—ria â— who became such a light unto the Gentiles that many parts in Christendome dawned with the luster of his writings His Father was called Franciscus Zanchius famous not oâ—ely for his Parentage but also for his knowledge in the Civill Law he was blessed with many other children which he received from Baâ—bara sister unto Marcus Antonius Morlaâ—tus both Nobly descended This Zanchius in his youth shewing some testifications of his hopefulnesse he was sent forth by his Father to be instructed in the Grounds of Learning in the Schooles he continued untill that he was twelve years old at which time his Father dyed and shortly after his Mother also Being thus deprived of both his Parents he began to consider with himselfe what course to take for the increasing and bettering of his knowledge in the Arts and withall perceiving that not onely his Unckle Eugenius Muâ—ius but also many of his Kinsmen and Cozen-germans had betaken themselves unto a Monasticall life and were advanced unto the dignity of Regular Cannons he perswaded himselfe that there were many learned persons to be found in that Society and that youth might be well instructed brought up amongst thâ—m as well for civill behaviour as for learning he resolved to take that course of life upon him being also thereunto induced by the advice of his intimate friend Basileus Wherefore revealing himselfe unto his Unkle and other friends he was by their meanes elected and chosen into the Monastery In this place he lived almost ninteen years and was by profession a Lateran Canon Regular in which space he gave himselfe first unto the study of the Tongues and proved a good Linguist Secondly unto the study of Aristotle and became a good Logician and thirdly unto the study of School Divinity wherein his excellency is manifest by his Workes For the space of sixteen years he was familiarly acquainted and dearly beloved of that illustrious and vertuous grave Celsus Martinengus who perceiving that his life was sought for the profession of the truth fled out of Italie and went unto Geneva and was the first Pastor which the Italian Church had in that place who when he dyed commended the care of his Flocke to Calvin 1558. During his residence in this Monastery he would walke sometimes with Martinengus for recreations sake unto Luca a Towne in Tuscanie where he heard Peter Martyr openly expounding the Epistle of Saint Paul to the Romans and in private the Psalmes of David unto their Canons and these Expositions of this learned man wrought so effectually with him that he gave himselfe wholly unto the study of Divinity and made diligent search into the Commentaries of the most learned and authenticke Fathers perused positive and polemicall discourses and delivered for a season the purity of the truth of the Gospell of Christ in Italie But in regard that Italie was too hot for Peter Martyr and much more for his Schollars who were hardly permitted to reside in the Countrey much lesse to be publick Teachers eighteen of them within the space of one year followed their Master amongst whom was this Zanchius Being thus freed and delivered from this Babilonian captivity an expression often used by himselfe in the year 1550. he first went unto the Rhetians because a greater liberty was ganted unto their Churches and because â—e might serve Christ with a free and a good
the same year he was graced with the title of Doctor in Divinity in the presence of the Prince Elector and of his son Casimirus who being most desirous of propagating the truth of Christ injoyned him after his returne from Rhetia to the Palatinate to lay open the true doctrine concerâ—ing God and concerning the three Persons in the Diety and to confute the opinion and to overthrow the arguments of such adversaries as at that time opposed the Diety of Christ and of the holy Ghost in Poland and in Transilvania whereupon he wrote his treatises ful of learning and piety de natura Dei detribus Elohmi filio spiritu Sancto uno eodemque Iehovah In this Academie he professed Divinity ten years even unto the death of â—rederich the third Prince Elector afterwards he went unto Neostadt where he was entertained Divinity Lecturer in a School newly erected where he continued seven years after the death of Frederick the third he was called unto the Academy at Leyden in Holland then newly consecrated in the year 1578. and also unto Antwarp in Brabant in the year 1580. but because that School could not want him he was willed by the Prince to remain there where he continued untill such time as the School was translated unto Heidleberge and then by reason of his old age he was discharged of his office by Casimirus then Elector Palatine whereupon he went towards Heidleberg to visit some friends which he had there whom when he had seene and comforted in those perillous times he changed this life for a better and more durable in the year 1590. and in the 75. year of his age and lyes buried in S t. Peters Chappel at Heidelberg He was well read in the auncient Fathers and in the writings of the Philosophers he was of singular modesty he alwayas earnestly desired peace amongst the Churches and in his old age was afflicted with blindnesse His works are here inserted 1 Divine Miscillanies with the explication of the Augustâ—n Confession 2 His judgement of the Controversies about the Lords Supper 3 Of the Trinity bookes thirteen in two parts in the fiâ—st the Orthodox mystery of this Doctrine is proved and confirmed by Scripture in the latter the adversaries are confuted 4 A Câ—mpendium of the chiefe points of Christian Doctrine 5 A Perfect tretise of the sacred Scriptures 6 Of the Incarnation of Christ. 7 Of the Divine Nature and his Attributes 8. Of the Workes of God in six dayes 9â— Of Mans Redemption 10 A Commentary upon Hosea 11. A Commentary on the Ephesians 12. Colossian .. 13 Thessalonians 14 Iohn 15 Observations of Physicke 16 His answer to an Arrian He sought and found the truth and would not hide That light from others that did still abide Within his breast his soul was alwayes free T' advance the works of reall piety Uertue and gravity were both combin'd Within the ceture of his breast and shin'd With equall luster all that heard his voyce Were fil'd with raptures and would much rejoyce At his discourse for what his tongue exprest Alwayes proceeded from a reall breast Let his examples teach us how to stand Firmely obedient to our Gods command That at the last we may rejoyce and sing Praises with Zanchy to heav'ns glorious King The Life and Death of Anthony Sadeel who dyed Anno Christi 1591. ANthony Sadeel was born upon the confines of Savoy and France not far from Geneva Anno Christi 1534. and his father dying whilst he was young his mother brought him up in learning and sent him to Paris and having studyed a while there he went to Tholous where falling into the society of some godly students of the Law it pleased God that he left Popery and went from thence to Geneva where he was much holpen by Calvin and Beza afterwards being sent for home and some controversie arising about his inheritance he went to Paris and there joyned himselfe with the private Congregation of the Protestants there the Pastor Collongius called the young students that were of that congregation together perswaded them to apply themselves to the study of Divinity which afterwards turned to the great good of the French Churches and amongst others Sadeel faithfully promised to apply him self therto having profited much in those studyes being scarce twenty years old he was by the approbation of the whole Church chosen one of the Pastors the year after fell out that horrid violence offered to the Church at Paris when they were met together to hear the word and receive the Sacrament where above one hundred and fifty of them were laid hold of and cast into Prison but by a miracle of Gods mercy the Pastors escaped the year after Sadeel was delivered from a great danger for at midnight many Apparitors brake into his house searched every corner and at last brake into his chamber seized on his books and papers crying out they were Hereticall and so laid hold upon him and carryed him to Prison But it pleased God that Antony of Burbon King of Navar who knew him and had often heard him hearing of his imprisonment sent to the officers to release him as being one of his train and when they refused to doe it he went himselfe to the Prison complaining of the wrong that was don him by imprisoning one that belonged to him being neither a murtherer nor thief and withall bad Sadeel follow him and so tooke him away with him whereupon the day after he publickly before the King gave thanks to God for his deliverance expounding the 124 Psalm then it being judged the safest for him to absent himselfe for a while he went to viâ—it the Churches in other parts of the Kingdome and at Aurelia he continued some moneths Preaching to many Citizens and students in the night time to their great advantage then he returned to Paris againe where a Synod of Ministers and Elders the first that was there were assembled to draw up a confession of their Faith which afterwards was presented to the King by the Admirall Coligny But the King shortly after dying the Queen mother and the Guises drew all the Government of the Kingdom into their hands and raised a great persecution against the Church drawing many of all ranks to Prisons and punishment yet Sadeel intermitted not his office but was wholly imployed in Preaching comforting confirming the weak c. till the danger encreasing it was thought fit that the care of the Church should be committed to one Macradus a man lesse known and that Sadeel should retire himselfe and so he went into severall parts of the Kingdome and therâ—by much propagated the true faith The year after the persecution not being so violent at Papis Sadeel could not refraine from going to his flocke which he loved so dearly In the year 1561. he fell sicke of a quartan Ague and by the advice of his Physitians and friends he was perswaded to goe into his owne Countrey yet neither there did he
live idle but Preached up and down to the spirituall advantage of many From thence he was called to be the Moderator in a Synod at Aurelia where the opinion was discussed and confuted of some that held That the Government of the Church should not be in the Eldership but in the body of the Congregation and Sadeel took so much pains in this point that the the first Author of that Schism was confuted and converted and publickly in writing confessed and recanted his error being returned to Paris the persecution began to grow so hot there againe that he was perswaded to retire himself from the same afâ—er which he never could return to his flock that so loved and was beloved of him after his departure he was present at and moderated in many Synods of the French Churches but withall he was so hated of the wicked that at last he was driven from thence to Lusanna where he Preached for a time and from thence he went to Geneva where for diverse years he was a Pastor but the Church in France having some peace he returned thither and at Lions and Burgundy he edified the Churches exceedingly Afterwards he was sent for by Henry the fourth King of Navar to whom he went very unwillingly not liking a Court-life yet by the advice of his friends he went to him and for three years space in all his troubles was with him comforting and encouraging him very much and at the Battle of Courâ—rass a little before it began he stood in the head of the Army and prayed earnestly for successe which much encouraged all the Souldiers and when they had gotten the victory he also gave Publick and solemn thanks unto God for the same but by reason of sicknesse and weaknesse being unable to follow that kind of life any longer he was with uâ—willingnesse dismissed by the King and went through his enemies Countries in much danger till he came to hiâ— wife and children at Geneva but shortly after he was sent by order from the King into Germany upon an Embassie to the Protestant Princes where not onely the Universities but the Princes also received him in a very honorable manner especially Prince Cassimire and the Lantgrave of Hesse Anno Christi 1589. he returned to Geneva where in the middest of many troubles he continued in the work of his Ministery to the end of his life and when the City was besieged by the Spaniards and others he oft went out with the Citizens to the fights so encouraging them that through Gods mercy a few of them put thousands of the enemies to flight many times At last he fell â—ick of a Plurifie and though the Physitians apprehended no danger yet he fore-told that it would be mortall and retiring himself from the world he wholly conversed with God Prayers were made daily for him in the Congregations and Beza and the other Ministers visited him often with Prayers and tears begging his recovery he enjoyed much inward peace and comfort in his sicknesse and at last slept in the Lord Anno Christi 1591. and of his age fifty seven his losse was much bewailed by the whole City his Preaching was not too curious and yet not void of Art and eloquence So that his Ministery was alwayes most gratefull to the people he was very holy and exemplary in his life and had most of the learnedst men of those times for his special friends Renowned Sadeel spent his dayes In giving the Almighty praise He through floods of danger went To feed his flocke whose great content Fatten'd their souls and made them thrive No foode like truth to kéep alive Iu grace they ceas'd not to applaud His worth that was not over-awde By Papists rage t' was not a Goale Could make his lofty courage faile Let his example teach us to expresse Our selves contented when we féel distresse WILL WHITAKER The Life and Death of William Whittaker UPon the entrance of that gracious Prince of blessed memory King Edward the sixt at which time began the generall â—xilement of Popish superstitions out of this Realm and the setling of sincere Religion in roome therof it pleased God withall to bring into the world with us a choice instrument of his one that should in due time prove an eager and able both opposer of the one and maintainer of the other For in the first yeare of that pious Princes reign was William Whittaker borne at the Manner of Holme in the Parish of Burndley in the County of Lancaster Under his Parents he was brought up at Grammer Schoole untill being now about ten years of age about the time of the second restauration of the sincere profession of Religion shortly after the beginning of the reign of Queen Elizabeth of holy and happy memory he was by that reverend and religious Divine Alexander Nowel Deane of Paâ—ls being his Unckle by the Mothers side sent for up to London from his parents with whom he had been nursed up in Popish â—uperstitions taken into his family and trained up in further matter of learning fit for his years in the publick School founded by Doctor Colet his pious sometime predecessor There he so profited in good literature and gave such presages of what would afterwards ensue that being now eighteen years old he was by the foresaid venerable Deane his Unckle sent to the University of Cambridge and there admitted into Trinity Colledge where making further progresse answerable to his former beginnings he was chosen first Scholar and after Fellow of that House and having received the degree of Master of Arts he began now to grow into no small esteeme and fame by reason of disputes and other exercises performed by him with the good approbation and to the great admiration even of the best and chiefest Among other things that caused the more generall â—otice to be tâ—ken oâ— him and gained him mâ—ch reputation were the translâ—tion of his reverend Unckle Master Nowels Catechisme into pure and elegant Greek and the dispuâ—e â—f that our right precious Iewell against Harding into the lâ—ke Latine Hence it came to passe that contention sometime arising between the two Proctors of the same year whether of them should at the ensuing Commencement be Father of the Philosophy Act to end the controversie being referred to the Heads of the University it was by their joynt consent as deeming none fitter for such a performance devolved to Master Whittaker though one then far younger then either of them and that might for his years have seemed too young for such an office But they were confident as appeared upon former proofe of his sufficiency for the place Neither did he therein either faile their estimation or frustrate their expectation of him For he discharged the office thus imposed upon himâ— with the generall applause of all as well strangers as others From the study of the Arts and Tongues wherein he gave sundry pregnant proofs of his proficiency beyond most of his equals having thereby
laid a sound foundation for a further firmer fairer future fabrick he betook himself to the study of Divinity Unto which now mainely addicting himselfe he began as was most need with the Scriptures the pure Well-spring of all divine truth the authority whereof as he alwayes maintained so he made them ever his Ground-worke for all matters of Faith and his Touchstone for the triall of all humane either writings or opinions From theÌ„ he proceeded a good course to be taken by young students in Divinity to the writings of our modern Divines of the best note and from these to the Monuments of the auncient Doctors all the works of whom whither Greek or Latine Fathers of any note being one as of a strong and able body so of pains and industry unweariable by night watches repairing what at any time by day he lost through emergent occasions he read over and dispatched within few years Herein he both so profited and made his proficienâ—y to appeare that nothing ordinary was now expected from him and being chosed when he took his first degree in Divinity to answer the Act at the Commencement in that solemn Assembly he therein so acquited himselfe that the place of the chiefe Professor of Divinity becoming shortly after even the very next year vacant by the removall of Doctor Chaderâ—on who then held it from the Headship of Queens Colledge to the Bishoprick of Chester notwithstanding his immaturity of years as might be deemed for such an employment his maturity of judgement and learning joyned with singular piety modesty gravity and discreete cariage prevailed so much as to procure him that placâ— though much laboured for by some others far auncienter then himselfe and of good darts and note otherâ— we see Being now brought upon a most eminent Stage wherein he lay open to all eyes to envious ones especially seldome wanting in such cases and of all other most curious and quick-sighted to pry narrowly into the defects and defaults of those whom they envie he therein so worthily demeaned himselfe beyond all expectation that he not onely surpassed the expectation of his wel-wishing friends but surpassed also the emulations of his ill-affected adversaries not unlike a prevailing pillar of fire that with iâ—s cleare and bright flames mounting up on high dispelleth and consumeth the smoake that would obscure and smother it He began with the opening in a dogmaticall way of sundry Bookes and parcels of Scripture the three first chapters of S. Lukes Gospell the Epistle of S. Paul to the Galatians his first Epistle to Timothy and Salomons Song of Songs all which he went through with in his publicke Lectures within the space of six years being attended continually with a constant concourse of the best and an auditory at all times well filled Neither was his Pen idle the whiles but was withall employed otherwise as well as his tongue For during this time he delt by writing with Campian that florishing Jesuite and refuted his ten frivolous and reasonlesse Reasons which he so much vaunted of he replyed upon Duraeus the Scot his scurrilous railings in defence of that his refutation and stopt his foule mouth He grapled with sedicious Sanders evicting his Arguments wherby he laboured to prove that the Pope is not Antichrist and with Rainolds his second who had bin nibling onely at the Preface to his eviction of Sanders his Demonstration but had no hart to meddle with the Worke it selfe After this considering the state and necessity of the times in his publicke Lectures he betooke himselfe to Controversies and singled out Bellarmine the Popes then greatest Champion and Romes Goliah to bicker with The Controversies he handled were concerning the Scriptures concerning the Church concerning Councels concerning the Bishop of Rome concerning the Ministers of the Church concerning the Saints deceased concerning the Church Triumphant concerning the Sacraments in generall the Sacrament of the Eucharist and of Baptisme in speciall whereof some small part he published in his life time some other part hath bin published since his death And as his Readings at home so his Writings both at home and abroad have for ingenuity perspicuity soundnesse succinctnesse received high commendations from the most judicious Divines that this age hath afforded yea it is credibly reported that Cardinall Bellarmine himselfe so esteemed of him that he procured hence his Portraiture and had it hanging in his Study among the Pictures of other men of prime note and that being demanded why he would keepe so near him the effigies of an Hereticke and one that had written against him and grace such an one so much he made answer that Though he were an Hereticke and an Advarsarie yet he was a learned Adversary nor is any testimony deemed more firme and credible then that that proceedeth from a professed enemy Onely while he lived Stapleton a peevish peece â—narled at some passages in one of his Controversies whom he so answered that the waspish dotard had little lust to reply Having some years sat in the Professors chaire and taken the degree of Doctor upon removall of Doctor Howland to the Bishopricke of Peterborough he was called by speciallâ— Mandate from the Queens Majesty to be Master of S. Iohns Colledg which Colledge by his accesse to it he much advanced For in his government thereof which with much moderation and singular discretion he carried himselfe in he had a speciall eye to the advancement as well of Religion as of Learning taking notice even of the lowest and the meanest and giving much encouragement every way to such as he observed to be forward in either By meanes whereof that Colledge during all the time of his continuance there greatly florished and was more frequented then any Colledge in the whole Universitie besides About his latter times som Controversie arising in the Universitie concerning certaine points of Doctrine he was together with some other of chiefe note and place called up to London for the composing of the same wherein having travelled and taken much paines to good purpose in his returne homeward from thence being well near mid-winter and sharpe weather he tooke by some cold in likelihood that sicknesse of which turning to a violent Feaver he not long after deceased During the short time of his sicknesse for he lay not many dayes he carried himselfe very comfortably and cheerfully and departed with much peace He was a man very personable of a goodly presence a body well compact tall of stature upright proportionally limmed blacke hayred of a grave aspect a ruddy complexion a strong constitution of a setled carriage a solid judgement a liberall minde an affable disposition a milde yet no remisse Governour a free disposer of Places a constant frequenter of the publicke service a generall Schollar a great Student to the last a lover of Learning and Learned a contemner of money of a moderate dyet a familiar demeanure a life generally unblameable and that which added a luster to all
the rest amidst all these endowments and the respects of others even the greatest thereby deservedly procured of a most meek and lowly spirit He had two wives successively women of good birth and note and eight children by them He left this world to his eternall joy and gaine but to the great losse of Gods Church and griefe of all sound and godly learned on the fourth day of December in the year of our Lord 1595. and in the forty and seventh of his age having held the Professours chaire about sixteene years and the Mastership of Saint Iohns Colledge almost nine His corps was with very great solmnity and generall lamentation brought to the ground and lyeth enterred in the Chappell of the foresaid Colledge his Epitaph being engraven with letters of gold on a faire stone in the wall near to the place of its enterment His Workes extant testifying his worth are these 1 His Translation of Master Nowels Catechisme into Greeke 2 Hiâ— Translation of Bishop Jewels disputâ— against Harding into Laâ—â—ne 3 His Answer to Edmund Campian his ten Reasons 4 His defence of that his answer against John Durey 5 His Refutation of Nicolas Sanders his Demonstration whereby he would prove that the Pope is not Antichrist 6 A collection thereto â—dded of â—nâ—ieâ—t Heresâ—â—s â—aâ—eâ— i◠〈◊〉 to maâ—e up the Popish Apostasie 7 His Thesis propâ—unded and defended at the Commecement 1582. that the Pope is the Antichrist spoken of in Scripture 8 His answer to Willam Reinolds against the Preface to that against Sanders in English 9 His Disputation conâ—erning the Scripture against the Papists of â—hese times Bellarmine and Stapleton especially 10 His defence of the Authority of the Scriptures against Thomas Stapleton his defence of the Authority of the Churches 11 His Lectures on the Controversies concerning the Bishop of Rome set forth by John Allenson after his decease 12 His Lectures on the Controversie concerning the Church set forth by the same Party 13 His Lectures on the Controversie concerning Councels set forth by the same 14 A Treatise of Originall sin against Stapletons three former bookes of Iustifiâ—ation set forth by the same 15 A Lecture on the first of Timothy 2.4 read on Febrvary 27. 1594. before the Earl of Essex and some other Honourable Persons 16 His Lectures concerning the Sacraments in generall the Eucharist and Baptisme in speciall taken by John Allenson and set forth by D r Samuel Ward Let such whose merits whose indifferent fames Keepes life and soul together in their Names With much a doe let such require the praise Of hyred quils to cleare their cloudy dayes With borrow'd Sunshine let them strive to vamp Their wasted Mem'ryes by another Lampe Let those whom ordinary wrrth commends Receive Almes-praise from charitable friends Our learned Whittaker craves no expression Noe vote no Trumpit but his foes confession Whos 's well refuted Arguments proclame His everlasting honor and their shame He was the shield of Truth the scourge of error This Islands Tryumph and proud Babils Terror The Life and Death of Lambert Danaeus who dyed Anno Christi 1596. LAmbert Danaeus was born at Aurelia in France Anno Christi 1530. he was of an acute wit and wonderfully addicted to learning so that by his diligence and extraordinary pains he attained to a great measure of it in his younger years he studyed the civill Law four years at Aurelia under Anna Burgius then he betook himselfe to the study of Divinity and imbracing the reformed Religion went to Geneva Anno Christi 1560. He had a vast memory and read over many Authors he was so versed in the Fathers and School-Divines that few attained to the like exactnesse therein whence one saith of him Mirum est homuncionis unius ingenium tot tam diversas scientsas haurire retinere potuisse At Geneva he was admitted into the number of Doctors and Pastors and by his learned labors was exceeding usefull both to the Church and Unixersity alwayes imploying himselfe in writing ann publishing Commentaries upon the Scriptures and other learned treatises which were of speciall concernment From thence he was called to the University of Leiden where he was received with much joy and was exceedingly admired for his learning acutenesse of wit promptnesse and strength of memory in alleaging and reciting the sentences of the Fathers Schoolmen Canonists and prophane writers From thence he was called to Gaunt Anno Christi 1582. where he taught a little while but that City being full of tumults he foreseeing the storm that was coming upon it left it and being sent for went into Navar where by his teaching and writing he made the University of Orthesium famous and at last he there laid downe his earthly tabernacle Anno Christi 1596. and of his age 66. Danaeus that was acute and wise Own'd vertue as his chiefest prize He was a jem that much adorn'd The Church he much contemn'd and scorn'd The wayes of Popery his heart Was fil'd with comfort joyn'd with art He was esteem'd and lov'd of those That were industrious to oppose Erronious principels his minde Was by heav'ns powerfull hand refin'd Who at the last received his spirit And made him happy to inherit The Life and Death of Robert Rollock who dyed Anno Christi 1598. RObert Rollock was borne in Scotland of the ancient Family of the Levingstones in the year 1555. His Father knowing the worth of Learning was very careful to bring up his Son therein and for that end he sent him to Surline and placed him under Thomas Bucanan who finding hiâ— promptnesse and diligence tooke much delight in him From thence he went to the University of Saint Andreweâ— there he spent four years in the study of the Arts and so eminently profited therein that he was chosâ—n a Professor of Phylosophy In the year 1583. the States of Scotland intending to erect a University at Edenburg sent some to Sâ—int Andrews to finde out a fit man that might undertake the Government of it where by the generall vote of all there was none thought so fit for this worke as Rollock which the States being informed of they presently sent foâ— hâ—m and when he was come they entertained him courtâ—ouslâ— after he had been there a while he set upon the workâ— and young Students flock't thither a pace from all parts of the Kingdome whom he instrâ—â—ted in the Arâ—â— and governed with severity mixed with â—lemenâ—y and so educated them in Religion that God blessed his labours â—xceedingly amongst them After four years he examined them strictly and finding their proficiency they commenced Masters of Art then four Professors of Philosophy were joyned with him to share in the paiâ—s which were chosen out of the ablest of thosâ— that had commenced Masters of Arâ—â— Every morning Rollock â—alling the studâ—nts together prayed fervently with themâ— and one day in the weeke expounded some portion of Scriptâ—â—â— to them after which Lecture he took notice which of them had
a piece of it which when Chytraeus had done Melancthon enquiring hiâ— age and admiring his forwardnesse said unto him Thou dost worthily deserve thy Degree and hereafter thou shalt be as a Sonnâ— unto me Whilst he was there he heard Luther's Lectures upon 〈◊〉 ten last Chapters of Genesis And as Plato when he was â—eady to dye praised God for three things first that God had made him a man secondly that he was bron in Greeceâ— thirdly that he lived in the time of Socrates So did Câ—â—traeus also acknowledge it as a singular mercy first thaâ— God had made him a man secondly a Christian thirdly that he had his education under those excellent lights of the Church Luther and Melancthon He was very diligent in attending upon Melancthon studied in his study heard all his discourses publicke and private about matters of the weightiest concernment followed him when he walked abroad and endeavoured wholly to fashion his life by hiâ— example And Melancthon looked upon him as his owne Son and used to call him suum Davidem his David Presently after Luther's death the Wars in Germany breaking forth by Charles the fifth the University of Wittenberg was dissipated by reason of the same whereupon Chytraeus went to Heidleberg where he studied Hebrew and then went to Tubing where he applyed himselfe to the study of the Mathematicks But when Prince Maurice of Saxonie had restored the University and called back Melancthon he preâ—ently returned to Wittenberg where he buckled close to his former studies fearing the like interruption again and in the year 1548. he began privately to read to young Students by which meanes having gotten some money in his purse he resolved to travell into Italie and other parts that so he might see those famous places which he had often read of and grow into acquaintance with the eminent men of those times For which he having gotten a faâ—thfull companion Andrew Martin of Rostoch he tavelled through most parts of Italie and being returned to Wittenbern Melancthon was requested to send two learned men to Rostoch for the advancement of that University whereupon he commended Iohn Aurifabar and Chytraeus to them who accordingly went thither and began their Lectures to the great satisfaction of the Auditors and in a short time Chytraeus grâ—w so famous that Christian King of Denmarke and the Senate of Auspurg sent for him to come to them he was desired also by the University of Argentine to succeed Hediâ— lately dead also Fredericke the second Prince Elector Palatine sent earnestly for him to come to Heidleberg but his Prince Iohn Albert would by no meanes part with him two years after he travelled into Frisland Brabant Flanders and other of the Belgick Provinces upon his returne the Elector Palatine sent againe for him to Heidleberg and the King of Denmarke profered to double his sâ—ipend if he would come to him but his answer to them both was That his Prince had dealt so friendly with him that he could by no meanes leave him Some years after the Nobility of Magdeburg sent to request his presence and assistance in reforming of Religion and ejecting of Popery from amongst them but when he could not goe himselfe he wrote his minde fully to them about the same About that time he commenced Doctor in Divinity at the charges of his Prince In the year 1565. the Senate of Stralsund sent for him to be their Superintendent and the King of Sweden also desired him to come thither but nothing would prevaile to get him from Rostoch The year after his Prince tooke him with him to the Diet at Auspurg where matters of Religion were to be debated At which time Ambassadours came to him againe from Argentine to request his remove thither and he gave them some hope of aâ—senting if his Princes good will could be procured but he would by no meaneâ— part with him and to expresse his love he profered to enlarge his stipend but Chytraeus refused the same Two yearâ— after he was sent for into Austria to assist them in the Reformation which they intended thither he went and gave them such full satisfaction that they sent him backe with an ample testimony of his abilities and integrity Then he made a journey into Hungarie where he visited many of the chiefe Cities in that Kingdome In the year 1571. his Prince made him the chiefe Visiâ—or of all the Churches in his Dominions He assisted also in the worke of Reformation at Berline the Marquesse of Brandenburg sent for him also to be the Divinity Professor at Frankefurt but could not obtain him Two years after the States of Stiria sent for him to helpe them in reforming thâ—ir Churches whither he went for halfe a year and was exceeding usefull to them therein At his returne he was sent for by the Elector of Saxonie and the University of Wittenberg to be a Professor there but they could not prevaile The year after the Duke of Brunswicke being to erect an University at Iuliers sent to him to assist in making Lawes for the University choyce of Professors c. Which he dispatched to his great content Shortly after also he went to divers meetings of Divines in severall placâ—s about procuring and setling the peace of the Churches of Christ. Whilst he was at Rostoch he went over in his Lectures the greatest part both of the Old and New Testament and wrote divers other learned Bookes also Growing into years he began to be diseased and sometimes was confined to his bed yet neither there would he be idle but upon the least intermission of his pain he went on with his Exposition of the two and thirtyeth Psalme which he had begun before And after that in Commenting upon the Epistle to the Romans but his disease increasing wherby he discerned the approaching â—f his end he made a Confession of his Faith received the Sacrament of the Lords Supper and not long after quietly slept in the Lord in the year 1600. and of his age seventy Whilst he lay sick in his bed if any present had discoursed about a controversall point raising himselfe up he would call to them to speak out for that he should dye with the more comfort if he could learn any new thing before his departure In fames large Catalogue of worthyes rare Chytraeus may impropriate ample share Of honour and renown who from a lad An even Connative disposition had To learning which his parents did promove And which in time he rarely did improve Commencing at but fifteen years of age Master of Acts and with Melancthon sage In his owne house was blestly educated And most profoundly by him doctrinated In whom Melancthon such profâ—ciency Found even unto admiration high That this his pregnant Pupill afterward He as his son did tenderly regard Chytraeus also in processe of time To such a highth of honour up did clime For 's excellency in all rare Literature As did from all that knew him love procure And favour
from the States of Germany And as he liv'd so honour'd he did dye ALEXANDER NOWELL The Life and Death of Alexander Nowel ALexander Nowel was born in the County of Lancaster Anno Christi 1511. of an ancient aud worshipfull family and at thirteen years old was sent to Oxford and admitted a member of Brasennose Colledge where he studyed thirteen yeares and grew very famous both for Religion and learning In Queen Maries dayes he amongst others left the Kingdome that he might enjoy his conscience and returning when Queen Elizabeth of blessed memory came to the Crown she made him Dean of Pauls where he was a frequent and faithfull Preacher By his writings he defended the truth against some English Popish Renâ—gado's for thirty years together he Preached the first and last Sermons in Lent before the Queen wherein he dealt plainly and faithfully with her He was a great benefactor to Brasennose Colledge where he had his first education He was the enlarger of Pauls School made the threefold Catechism which was much used long after He was very charitable to the poor especially to poor Scholars A great comforter of afflicted consciences he lived til he was ninety years old and yet neither the eyes of his minde nor body waxed dim And dyed peaceably in the Lord Anno Christi 1601. on the thirteenth of February and lyes buryed in the Famous Cathedrall Church of Saint Pauls in London with this Epitaph upon his Tombe Quam spcioÌ„sa vestigia Evangelizantium pacem With some verses also annâ—xed this being the lasâ— of them Sicoritur floret demoriturque Deo His Works set forth are as followeth 1 Against Thomas Dormam an English Papist in two books in quarto English 2 Another Booke against Dorman and Sanders of Transubstantiation in quarto English 3 His greater Catichisme in Latine in quâ—rto 4 Hiâ— lessâ— Catechisme in Latine in Octavo 5 The same in Latine Greeke and Hebrew As grave as godly Nowel Dean of Pauls Most justly for a Crown of honour cals Amongst other worthyes for his piety His learning wisedome and humanity A famous Preatcher in the halcyon-dayes Of Queen Elizabeth of endlesse praise To Pauls-School and to Braz'nnose Colledge he A Benefactor great was known to be For 's three-fold Catechisme worthily Much honour'd and for his great Charity Who at the age of Ninety years in peace And full of love and honour did decease The Life and Death of Daniel Tossanus who dyed Anno Christi 1602. DAniel Tossanus was born at Moumbelgard in Wertemburge Anno Christi 1541. his Parents carefully brought him up in learning and at fourteen years old sent him to the Universâ—ity of Basil and after two years study there he commenced Batchelor of Arts from thence he went to Tubing was there maintained to his studyes for two yearâ— more by Prince Christopher at the end whereof he commenced Master of Arts and then was sent for back by his father to Mounâ—pelier where he Preached for a while and then went to Paris to learn the French Tongue and proceed in his other studyes Anno Christi 1560. he went thence to Aurelia where he read Hebrew publickly there he was first made Deacon and two years after Minister which place he undertooke there rather then in his owne Country partly because of the great want of Pastors in the French Churches as also because he agreed with them in his judgement about the manner of Christs presence in the Sacrament he also marryed a wife Anno Christi 1565. Whilst he was there the civill Wars brake out between the Papists and Protestants and Francis Duke of Guise besieging the City of Aurelia where Mounseur de Andelot brother to the Admirall of France commanded in chieâ—e Tossan continued there all the time of the siege and took extraordinary pains in instructing exhorting and encowraging both Citizens and Souldiers and when the City was in great danger to be lost one Poltrot who had devoted his life for his Countries safety went out and flew the Duke of Guise under the Wall 's whereupon the siege was raised and the Church there preserved almost miraculously from ruine An. Christi 1567. there brake out a second civill War at which time the Papists in Aurelia conspired together to destroy all the Protestants so that they were every hour in danger of being butchered when it pleased God to send Mounser Novie with a small party of Souldiers who entring into the City and joyning wâ—th the Protestants drove out some of the Papists and disarmed the rest but after that famous battell at Saint Danis wherein so many of both â—ides were slain and wounded Peace was againe concluded though the Papists quickly brake it and a great company of Souldiers entring into Aurelia they began to breath forth threatenings against the Church of Christ especially against the Miâ—isters of it hereupon Tossan was in great danger iâ—somuch that when he went into the Church to Preach he knew not whether he should come out alive that which most troubled him was the fear that he had of his wife and two small children besides he never went to the Congregation but some threw stones others shot bullets at himâ— and their rage grew so great that they burned down the barn wherein the Church used to meet together and every day he heard of one or other of their Members that were slain so that he was compelled severall times to change hiâ— lodging yet one day the Souldiers caught him and pretended that they would carry him out of the City but intended to have Murthed him whereupon hiâ— wife great with childe ran to the Governor and with much importunity prevailed that her husband might stay in the City and the third civill War braking out the Popish Souldiers in Aurelia were so enraged that they burned all the places where the Church used to meet and barbarously slew above eighty of the faithfull servants of Christ in them yet it pleased God miraculously to preserve the Ministers in that great dangâ—r and Tossan by the help of some of the faithfull was conveyed privately away out of the Ciâ—y in the night but whilst he fought to hide himselfe in a wood he fell into an ambush and was taken and was carryed to Prisoner into â— Castle not far of from Aurelia which sad newes coming to his wife she left no meanes untryed for his delivery and aâ— last for a great sum of mony she procured his release whereupon he went to Argimâ—nt and hiâ— wife putting her self into the habit of a maâ—d-servant went towards Argimont after him where Renata the daughter of Lewis the twelfâ—h of France and Dowager of Ferrara lived in a very strong Castle and was a great â—â—iend to the Protestants entertaining many that fled to her for succour bâ—t as his wife was going thitherward after him she waâ— takeâ— by some Souldiers and carryed back to the Governour of Aurelia but it pleased God to stir up his owne wife â—nd daughters
having no Folioes The Life and Death of the late reverend and worthy Prelate LANCELOT ANDREWES late Bishop of WINCHESTER THis grave and honorable Prelate was borne in the City of London in the Parish of All-Saints Barking of honest and Religious Parents his Father having most part of his life used the Seas in his latter time became one of the society and Master of the Holy Triniâ—y comonly called the Trinity house and was descended from the ancient family of the Andrewes in Suffolke From his tender yeeres he was totally addicted to the study of good letters and in his youth there appeared in him such aptnesse to learne answerable to his endeavours that his two first Schoolmasters Master Ward and Master Mulcaster conceiving or foreseeing that he would prove a rare scholer contended who should have the honor of his breeding From Master Ward Master of the Coopers Free-Schoole in Radcliffe he was sent to Master Mulcaster Master of the Mercantaylors free schoole in London where he answered the former opinion conceived of him for by his extraordinary industry and admirable capacity he soone outstript all the scholers under Master Mulcasters tuition being become an excellent Grecian and Hebrecian Insomuch as Thomas Wattes Doctor of Divinity Prebend and Residentiary of Saint Pauls and Archdeacon of Middle-sex who had newly Founded som Scholerships in Pembrook Hall in Cambridge sent him thither and bestowed the first of his said Scholarships upon his which places aâ—e sincâ— comonly called the Greeke Scholarships As soone as he was a Bachelour of Arâ—s and so capable of a fellowship there being then but one place void in the said Colledge and Thomas Dove late Lord Bishop of Peterburgh being then a scholer also in the said Colledge and very well approved of by many of the Society The Masters and Fellowes put these two young men to a Tryall before them by some Scholasticall exercises upon performance whereof they preferred Sir Andrewes and chose him into the fellowship then void though they liked Sir Dove so well also that being loth to loose him they made him some allowance for his present maintenance under the title of a Tanquam Socius In the meane while Hugh Price having built Iesus Colledge in Oxford had heard so much of this young man Sir Andrewes that without his privity he named him in hiâ— foundation of that Colledge to be one of his first Fellowes there His Custome was after he had been three yeeres in the University to come up to London once a yeer to visit his Parents and that ever about a fortnight before Easter staying till a fortnight after and against the time he should comâ— up hâ—s Father directed by letters from his Son before he came prepared one that should read to him and be his guide in the attaining of some Language or Art which he had not attained before So that within few yeeres he had laid the foundations of all Arts and Sciences and had gotten skill in most of the Modern Languages And it is to be observed that in his journeys betwixt London and Cambridge to and fro he ever used to walke on foot till he was a Baâ—chelour of Divinity and professed that he would not then have ridden on horse-backe but that diverse friends began to finde fault with him and misinterpret him as if he had forborne riding onely to save charges What he did when he was a Child and a schoole-boy is not now knowne But he hath beene sometimes heard to say that when he was a young scholer in the Universiâ—y and so all his time onward he never loved or used any games or ordinary recreations either within doores as Cards Dice Tables Chesse or the like or abroad as Buts Coyts Bowles or any such but his ordinary exercise and recreation was walking either alone by himselfe or with some other selected Companion with whom he might conferre and argue and recount their studies and he would often professe that to observe the grasse herbs corne trees cattle earth waters heavens any of the Creatures and to contemplate their Natures orders qualities vertues uses c. was ever to him the greatest mirth content and recreation that could be and this he held to his dying day After he had been some while a Master of Arts in the University he applied himselfe to the study of Divinity wherein he so profited that his fame began to be spread farre and neare Insomuch as being chosen Catechist in the Colledgâ— and purposing to read the ten Commandements every Saturday and Sunday at three of clocke afternoone which was the hour of Catechizing not onely out of other Colledges in the University but diverse also out of the Country did duely resort unto the Colledge Chappell as a publique Divinity Lecture Before I proceed to his life after he left the University give me leave to relate a story of him while he yet remained there and that as near as I can from his owne mouth and in his owne words Upon his first shewing himselfe at Cambridge in his Divinity studies especiall notice was soone taken of him among his abilities and eminencies as a man deeply seene in all cases of Conscience and he was much sought to in that respect To proceed with his owne particular His worth made him so famous that Henry Early of Huntingdon hearing of it sent for him and thought himselfe much honoured by his accompanying him into the North whereof he was President and whâ—re God so blessed his painfull Preachings and moderate private conference that he converted Recusants Priests and others to the Protestant Religion Sir Francis Walsingham Secretary of State to Queene Elizabeth tooke also especiall notice of his abilities and highly affected him and being loath that he should not be better known to the world wrought meanes to make him Vicar of Saint Giles without Criplegate London then Prebend and Residentiary of Saint Pauls and afterwards Prebend of the Collegiate Church of Southwell Being thus preferred to his owne contentment he lived not idlely but continued a painfull labourer in the Lordâ— vineyard witnesse Saint Giles Pulpit and that in Saint Pauls Church where he read the Lecture thrice a weeke in the Terme time And indeed what by his often Preaching at St. Giles and his no lesse often reading in St. Paâ—ls he became so infirme that his friends despaired of his life Upon the death of Doctor Fulke he was elected to the Mastership of Pembrooke Hall whereof he had been a Schollar and Fellow a place of credit but of little benefit for he ever spent more upon it then he received by it Afterwards he was made Chaplaine in ordinary attendance of which kinde there were then but twelve to Queen Elizabeth who tooke such delight in his Preaching and grave deportment that first she bestowed a Prebend at Westminster upon him and not long after the Deanry of that place and what she intended further to him her death prevented He soone grew into far greater esteem
To the better discharge of this part of the account he tooke order still before hand by continuall search and enquiry to know what hopefull young men were in the University his Chapleins and friends receiving a charge from him to certifie him what hopefull and towardly young wit they met with at any time and these till he could better provide for them were sure to taste of his bounty and goodnesse for their better encouragement Diverse eminent men in Learning that wanted preferment when any thing fell in his guift convenient for them though otherwise they had no dependance at all upon him nor interest in him he would send for before they knew why and entertaine them in his owne houseâ— and conferre the preferment upon them and also defray the very charges incident for a dispensation or a faculty yea of their very journey and all this that he might have his Diocesse in generall and his preferments in particular the better fitted So that that may fitly be applyed to him which was sometimes to Saint Chrysostome In administratione Epatus prebuit se fidelem constantem Vigilantem Ministerum Christi And if you looke upon him in those Temporales wherwith he was intrusted you shall find him no lesse faithfull and just As first diverse summes and many of them of good value were sent to him to be distributed among poore scholers and others at his discretion all which he disposed with great care and fidelity even according to the Donors minds and entents For his faithfulnesse in managing those places wherein he was entrusted for others joyntly with himselfe let Pembrooke Hâ—ll and Westminster Colledge speake for him for when he became Master of the first he found it in debt being of a very small endowment then espcially but by his faithful providence he left above eleven hundred pounds in the Treasury of that Colledge towards the bettering of the estate thereof And when he was made Deane of the other it is not unknowne to some yet living who will testfie that he left it for all orders aswell of the Church as of the Colledge and Schoole a place then truly exemplarily Collegiate in all respects both within and without free from debts and arrerages from encrochments evill Customes the Schoole-boyes in the foure yeeres he stayed there being much improved not by his care and oversight onely but by his owne personall and often labours also with them To these may be added that whereas by vertue of his Deanry of Westminster his Mastership aâ— Pembrooke Hall and his Bishopricke of Ely the elction of Scholers into the Schoole of Westminster and from thence to the two Universities as also of many Scholers and fellowes in Pembrook Hall some in Saint Peters Colledge and some in Iesus Colledge were in his power and disposall he was ever so faithâ—full and just that he waved all Letters from great Personages for unsufficient Scholers and cast aside all favor and affection and chose onely such as in his judgment were fittest And lastly which is not the least in this kind being many times desired to assist at the election of Scholers from the free Schooles of the Merchantaylors and from that at Saint Pauls of the Mercers and perceiving favour and affection and other by respects sometimes to oversway merit with those to whom the choyce belonged and that diverse good Scholers were omitted and others of lesse desert preferred he of his owne goodnesse diverse times tooke care for such as were so neglected and sent them to the University where he bestowed proâ—â—ment upon them To conclude this account of his take a view of his fidelity in that great place of trust the Almoâ—orship which was sufficiently evident especially to those who attended him neerly First in that he would never suffer one penny of that which accrewed to him by that place to be put or mingled with any of his own Rents or Revenewes and wherein he kept a more exact account then of his owne private Estate and secondly being so separated he was as faiâ—hfull in the disposing of it not onely in the generall trust of his Soveraigne in the daily charges incident to that place expended by the Sub-Almoner and other yeerly ordinary charges but when he perceived that he had a surplussage those charges defrayed he would not suffer it to lye by him but some of it he disposed to the reliefe of poore Housekeepers some in releasing of poore Prisoners and comforting them which lay in misery and iron and some in furnishing poore people with Gownes hose shooes and the like for all which many so bestowed by him had he reserved to his owne use his Patent being sine computo no man could have questioned him But he was a faithfull Steward in this as in the rest and expected that joyfull Euge Well done thou good and faithfull servant thou hast bin faithfull c. enter thou into the joy of thy Lord which no doubt but he possesseth The next is his Gratitude or thankfulnesse to all from whom he had received any benefit Of this vertue of his there are and were lately divers witnesses as Doctor Ward Son to his first Schoolemaster upon whom he bestowed the Living of Waltham in Hampshire and Master Mulcaster his other Schoolmaster whom he ever reverently respected during his life in all companies and placed him ever at the upper end of his Table and after his death caused his Picture having but few other in his House to be set over hiâ— Study door And not onely shewed he this outward thankfulnesse to him but supplyed his wants many times also privaâ—â—ly in a liberall and plentifull manner and at his owne death the Father being dead he bequeathed a Legacy to his Son of good valune who as is said before bestowed a full Scholarship on him in Pembrooke Hall Concerning the kinred of Doctor Watts after much enquiry he found onely one upon whom being a Scholar he bestowed prâ—ferments in Pembrooke Hall and he dying there hiâ— Lordship much grieved that he could heare of no more of that kinred to whom he might expresse his further thankfulnesse And yet he forgat not his Patron Doctor Watts at his end for by his Will he tooke order that out of the Scholarships of that Foundation the two Fellowships which he himselfe Founded as you shall see by and by in Pembrooke Hall should be supplyed if they should be found fit for them Lastly to Pembrooke Hall omitting the Legacies by him bequeathed to the Parishes of Saint Giles Saint Martin Ludgate where he had dwelt Saint Andrewes in Holborne Saint Saviours in Southwarke Allâ— Saints Barking where he was borne and others to that Colledge I say where he had beene a Schollar Fellow and Master he gave one thousand pounds to purchase Land for tâ—o Fellowships and for other uses in that Colledge expressed in his Will besides three hundred such Folio Books of his own to the encrease of that Colledg Library as
loved most tenderly from his Childehood rather like a Father then a Lord or Patron but since his death a Successour to him in some of his Places in the Church for the duty and reverence which he ever bare to him while he lived hath most gratefully and cordially in his everlasting honorable memory added to it a most excellent significant and speaking Epitaph which followeth LECTOR Si Christianus es siste Morae praetium erit Non nescire Te Qui vir hîc siâ—us sit Ejusdem tecum Caâ—holicae Ecclesiae Membrum Sub eadem faelicis Resurrectioniâ— Spe Eandem D. Iesu praestolans Epiphaniam Sacratissimus Antistes Lancelotus Andrewes Londini oriundus educatus Cantabrigiae Aulae Pembroch Alumnorum Sociorum Prefectorum Vnus nemini secundus Linguarum Artium Scientiarum Humanorum Divinorum omnium Infinitus Thesaurus Stupendum Oraculum Orthodoxae Christi Ecclesiae Dictis Scriptis Precibus Exemplo Incomparabile Propugnaculum Regine Elizabethae a Sacris D. Pauli London Residentiarius D. Petri Westmonast Decanus Episcopus Cicestrensis Eliensis Wintoniensis Regique Jacobo â—um ab Eleemosyniâ— Tum ab uâ—riusque Regni Consiliis Decanus denique sacelli Regii Idem ex Indetessa opera in Studiis Summa sapientia in rebus Assidua pietate in Deum Profusa largitate in egenos Rara amoenitate in suos Spectata probitate in omnes Aeternum admirandus Annorum pariter publicae famae satur Sed bonorum passim omnium cum luctu denaâ—us Coelebs hinc migravit ad Aureolam coelestem Anno Regis Caroli II 0. Aetaâ—is suae LXXI 0. Christi MDCXXVI 0. Tantum est Lector Quod te moerentes Posteri Nunc volebant Atque ut ex voto tuo valeas Dicto Sit Deo Gloria His Workes In the volumne of his Sermons there are seventeen Sermons of the Nativity Preached upon Christmas day Eight Sermons upon Repentance and Fasting Preached upon Ash-wednesday Six Sermons Preached in Lent Three Sermons of the Passion Preached upon Goodfriday Eighteen Sermons of the Resurrection Preached upon Easter-day Fifteene Sermons of the sending of the Holy Ghost Preached upon Whit-sunday Eight Sermons Preached upon the fifth of August Ten Sermons Preached upon the fift of November Eleven Sermons Preached upon severall occasions A Manuall of private Devotions and Meditations for every day in the weeke A Manuall of Directions for the Visitation of the Sick His Opera Posthuma Concio ad Clerum pro gradu Doctoris Ad Clerum in Synodo Provinciali Coram Rege habita V 0. August 1606. In discessu Palatini XIII 0. April 1613. Theologica Determinatio de Iurejurando De Vsuris De Decimis Respontiones ad 3 Epistolas Petri Molinei An answer to the 18. and 20. cc. of Cardinall Perons reply A Speech in the Star-Chamber against Master Thraske Another there concerning Vowes in the Countesse of Shrewsburies case Respontio ad Forti librum Ad Apologiam Cardinalis Bellarmini Reader be serious let thy thoughts reflect On this grave Father with a large respect Peruse his well-spent life and thou shalt finde He had a rare and heav'n enamel'd minde He was our Kingdomes Star and shin'd most bright In sad afflictions darke and cloudyst night Let his example teach us how to live In love and charity that we may give To those whose wants inforce them to implore Our ayde and charity makes no man poore Andrewes was fill'd with goodnesse all his dayes Were crown'd and guilded with resounding praise The world shall be his Herald to proclaime The ample glories of his spreading Fame FINIS FRANCISCVS IVNIVS The Life and Death of Franciscus Juniuâ— EMblemes of honour derived from Ancestors are but rotten rags where their ignoble posterity degenerate from their Progenitors But they are both glorious and precioâ—s where the children both answer and exceed the vertues of their extraction Such here our Iunius William his Grandfather serving under Lewiâ— the twelfth in the warres of Navarre was rewarded for his valour with an Augmentation of Nobility to his Family Dennis his Father was a great practiser of the Civill Law and got both credit and profit by his profession But what needs this superfluous luster to be borrowed from Parentage to him who was inriched with plenty of light in himselfe 2. In the famons City of Bourges in France our Franciâ— was born An. 1545. Likely almost to have proved a Benjamin to his Mother and just cause had she to valew this Pearle for which she paid so dear His baptisme was hastned to prevent his death all looking on him as a weakling which would post to the grave whereas he not onely out-lived most of his brethren but even made his Parents to survive in him His soul was condemn'd to a bad body his infancy being a continued sicknesse and the small pox being struck into him when a child by negligence of the servants suffering him to take cold occasioned a sore in his leg and ever after even to the day of his death he felt the Admonition of that maladie for when there was any indisposion in his body that the malignant humours mustered themselves together hiâ— leg was made the Randevous for their meeting 3. Being sent to school he was unhappy in tirannicall Masters For though he was of that capacity to hold as much and more then they would poure into him and of that industry that he refused no labour for learning yet they were most cruell unto him One especially who as of whipping of boyes had been rather his recreation then their punishment and he willing to make faults where he could not find them so punished the naturall weaknesse of Iunius for an offence that it was familiar with him seven times a day to be corrected truely scoring the number of the Liberall Sciences upon him wherein afterwards he grâ—w to be most eminent yet such was Iunius his love of learning and his soul was so eagerly set upon it that he was not at leisure to complaine of hard usage or to confesse it to his mother and sister who suspâ—cted it 4. But afterwards Iunius growne to be a stripling in that age wherein youth and man doe meet together was sent by his father to Lions to study a dissolute place and full of all Licentiousnesse Sudden alterations to extreames commonly prove dangerous Iunius hath now neither Master to fright him nor father to awe him nor friend to direct him And as waters long curbed with flood gates and debarred their naturall course runne with more fury and fiercenesse when the dams and sluces are suddenly taken away so what wonder if this our youth formerly kept in constant durance with cruel education now flye out and give as I may say separation to his corrupt nature for the â—ormer wrong he had sustained 5. Two dangerous Rocks he was drawn upon narrowly scaping the one but dangerously hitting against the other The first was the allurements of wanton Women who sought to inveagle him the City of Lions being
against Genebrard 12 Twelve Orations for the reading of the Old Testament 13 An Oration of Ursinus life 14 Vpon Gregory 13. his Cursings against Gebbard Bishop of Colen 15 Vpon Saint Judes Epistle 16 Four Speeches for reading the Old Testament 17 Vpon the four first Psalms 18 A Catholicke Apology in Latine 19 An Hebrew Lexicon 20 His table of Purgatory 21 A Christian admonition against John Haren in French 22 A booke called the Academy 23 His CUROPALATES in Greek and Latin 24 Translation of two Epistles of the Kings one of Plessis in Latin 25 His sacred Paralels 26 Vpon the Prince of Anhalt his death 27 Notes upon the three first Chapters of Genesis 28 A confutation of some Arguments of the Creation 29 Notes upon the Apocalyps 30 Second Edition of his Bible 31 Man lives with corrections and Notes 32 His first defence of the Catholike Doctrine of the Trinity 33 A Commentary one Daniel 34 The King of France his confession in French 35 Vpon the Death of John Cassimire Count Palatine 36 Commentary on Psalm 101. 37 Expositions upon the Apocalyps in French 38 Commentary on Jonah the Prophet 39 An Analysis upon Genesis 40. Ciceroes Epistles to Atticus and Q. his brother with Corrections and Notes 41 A defence of the Catholicke Doctrine of Nature and Grace 42 A praise of Peace 43 The peaceable Christian in French 44 Of the observation of Moses policy 45 Of Divinity 46 An Oration against the Jesuâ—tes in Latine 47 Notes upon Tertullian 48 Notes and Animadversions upon Bellarmine of the Translation of the Roman Empire Reader observe and thou shalt finde A rare and well-reformed minde He that in his youthfull dayes Storch'd his conscience by the blaze Of wanton fires refus'd at last The heat of an Athisticke blast He started from the deep abyss Of vilenessâ— to the height of bliss And then that light which fil'd his breast Gave himselfe and others rest That they which did before contemne His deeds imbrac'd him as a Jem And thought him fitting to be set Within the Churches Cabonet His vertue pay'd what vice had scoar'd And age abhor'd what youth ador'd EDWIN SANDES ARCHRIâ— The Life and Death of Edwin Sands who dyed Aug. 8. Anno Christi 1588. THis learned Doctor and famous Divine was descended of vertuous and godly Parents and bred up in the knowledge of the liberall Arts being well grounded in the rudements of Learning he was sent to the famous University of Cambridge where he tooke the degree of Doctor in Divinity and afterwards was Master of Katharine-Hall and Vice-Chancellour of the said University at that time when Iohn Duke of Northumberland came thither with his Army to proclaime the Lady Iane Gray Queen of England in opposition to Queen Mary Hereupon the Duke required Doctor Sands to Preach on the morrow in relation to the businesse then in hand Though the warning was short and the businesse in agitation very weighty yet he undertooke to Preach so rising at three of the clocke the next morning he tooke his Bible in his hand and after he had prayed a good space he shut his eyes and holding his Bible before him earnestly prayed unto God that it might fall open where a most fit Text should be for him to Preach on that day The Bible as God would have it opened at the beginning of Ioshua where he found a very pregnant text of Scripture for the present occasion viz. Ioshua 1.16 17 18. He that shall consider the Auditory the time and other circumstances shall easily see that this Text most fitly served for the purpose and as God gave the Text so he gave him such discretion wisdome moderation and sincerity in the handling of it that he cavsed the stoutest of them there present to shed teares abundantly Shortly after when the Duke was taken and Queen Mary proclaimed one Master Mildmay was sent to apprehend Doctor Sands and to carry him to the Tower of London who coming unto Doctor Sands he told him that he marvelled that so learned a man as he should so unadvisedly run himselfe into danger To whom he answered I am not ashamed of bonds but if I could doe as you can doe I need not to fear bonds you came downe armed against the Queen and now you are for the Queen before a traytor now a friend But I cannot thus dissemble and with one mouth blow hot and cold As he rode in at Bishops-gate London a wicked woman hurled a stone at him which gave him such a blow on the breast that it almost feld him off his horse To whom he mildely said Woman God forgive thee While he was in the Tower one Iohn Bowler was his Keeper a perverse Papist yet at length by the sweet and gentle perswasions and grave counsell of this holy man he was so far wrought upon as to favour the Gospell and afterwards became a zealous professour of it Upon Sir Thomas â—â— yats insurrection Doctor Sands was removed unto the Marshall-sea where God gave him great favour in the eyes of his Keeper so that he used him very courteously After nine and twenty weekes imprisonment in the Tower and nine in the Marshalsea through the mediation of his friends he was set at liberty But Gardiner Bishop of Winchester repenting of what he had done presently used all meanes possible to apprehend him againe yet through the goodnesse of God and the help of his faithfull friends he got safe out of London and went to the Sea-side to take shipping for Flanders while he stayed at Milton-shore waiting for a Ship he was kindely entertained by one Iames Mower and his wife Now his wife was barren having bin married abovt eight years to whom at parting Doctor Sands said Be of good comfort for ere that a whole year be past God shall give you a Sonne And accordingly it came to passe for that day twelve months lacking but one day she was delivered of a Son He remained in Germany all the reigne of Queene Mary and returned unto London the same day that Queen Elizabeth was crowned The Queen highly esteemed him for his singular piety and learning and shortly after bestowed great preferment upon him He was made Bishop of Worcâ—ster the 21. day of December 1559. He did succeed that famous Archbishop Grindall in two places to wit in the Bishoprick of London and the Archbishoprick of Yorke the one in 1570. and the other in six years after And when he had enjoyed that promotion of Archbishop 12. years he departed this life Aug. 8. 1588. about the age of 60. and lyes buried in the Collegiate Church in Southwel in Noâ—inghamshire A man of whom it is hard to be said whether more famous for his singular vertues and learning or for his Noble Parentage and Of-spring which he left behinde him for he left many Childen of which three were Knights and excelently well qualified Gentlemen either for body or minde But his Sonne Sir Edwin Sands proved the
learneder and more famous and deare to his Countrey There is a Booke of famous Sermons extant in Print of this Prelates which is counted a worthy Peece and doth sufficiently declare his Piety and Schollarship to succeedâ—ng Ages He that will spake his praises well Must study first what 't is t' excell He daily labour'd to oppose The Churches most unsatiate Foes The truth he would be sure to vent Though he endur'd imprisonment Read but his Works and thâ—u shall finde His body was imprisn'd not his minde Gâ—RVAS BABINGTON The Life and Death of Gervas Babington THis Prelate as he was excellent for his parts so was he of a very faiâ— descent being born in the County of Nottingham of the ancient family of the Babingtons in the said County where he drew in the first rudiments of Literature till by his worthy Parentâ— he was sent to Cambridge and was admitted into that worthy Society of Trinity Colledg Doctor Whiâ—guâ—â—â— being then Master This Babington proved so famous in Scholâ—ership that having his degrees he was made Fellow of the same Colledge and giving himselfe to the study of Divinity he proved a worthy Preacher in that University After being Doctor in Divinity he was called by Henry that Noble Earl of Pembrooke to be his Chaplaine by whose favour he was first made Treasurer of the Church of Landaffe in Wales after he was elected Bishop of the same 1591. and when he had sitten four years in that See for his singular Piety and Learning he was by Queene Elizabeth translated to the Bishopricke of Exeter where he scarce stayed three years but he was made Bishop of Worcester and in the middest of all these preferments he was neither tainted with Idlenesse or pride or covetousnesse but wâ—s not onely diligent in preaching but in writing bookes for the understanding of Gods Word so that he was a true patterne of Piety to the people of Learning to the Ministery and of Wisedome to all Governours Whereupon he was made one of the Queenes Counsell for the Marches of Wales He was Bishop of Worcester abovt the space of 13. years He dyed of an Hecticke Feaver and so changed this fraile life for a better in the yeare of our Lord 1610. not without the great griefe of all and had all funerall Rites bestowed on him befitting so great and so grave a Governour and father of the Church and was buried in the Cathedrall Church of Worcester in the Moneth of May. His Workes extant are these that follow 1. Consolatory Annotations upon Genesis Exodus Leviticus Numbers and Deuteronomy 2. Vpon the ten Commandements the Lords Prayer and the Articles of the Creed 3. A comparison or collation betweene humane frailty and faith 4. Three worthey and learned Seâ—mons Renowned Babington spun out his dayes In truth and peace and had the ecchoing praise Of every tongue his worth was priz'd by all That lov'd religion nothing could recall His heart from goodnesse peace and love did rest Within the closset of his seâ—ious breast Therefore let every tongue proclame and cry The fame of Babington shall never dye IOHN WHITGIFT The Life and Death of John Whitgift IN the year of our Lord 1530. being the twenty and first of King Henry the eight a year very remarkable for the Parliament then held wherein that proud Prelate Cardinall Wolsey was attainted and the first opposition made by the maine body of the the Commons therein assembled against the tirannicall usurpation of the Popish Clergy was Iohn Whitgift born at great Grimesbie in Lincolnshire descended from an ancient and worshipfull Family of the Whitgifts in Yorkeshire An Unckle he had called Robert Whitgift Abbot of Wellow who though himselfe a professed Monk yet not greaty liked the profession and was by this his Nephew therefore heard sometime to say that they and their Religion could not long continue for that having read the Scripture over and over againâ—â— he could never finde therein that their Religion was founded by God and it is not unlikly that by the cariage of businesses in the State at that time being an understanding man he might shrewdly guesse at those things that shortly after sued Under this his Unckle was he educated together with some other young Gentlemens sonnes for some space of time and whether taking some hints from him or being by some other meanes wrought on through a secret hand of God already moulding and preparing him for future employments he began to grow though very young yet into a dislike of Popish superstitions and to afâ—ect the better way For being by his said Unckle who observed his towardlinesse for his further improvement in learning sent up to London entred there into Saint Antonies schoole and boarded with an Aunt of his wife to one Michael Shaller a Verger of Pauls Church he was after som time by her dismissed againe and thrust out of doores because he refused to frequent the morning Masse with her albeit by some of the Canons earnestly solicited so to doe Upon returne to his Parents according to his Unckles advice and direction finding that he had well profited in learning he was by them sent to the University of Cambridge and there placed in Qâ—eenes Colledge But not so well relishing tâ—e disposition of some in that house he removed from thence to Pembrooke Hall where he was pupill to that blessed Maâ—tyr of God Iohn Bradford Doctor Ridley afterward Bishop of London being then Hed of the house by whom also in regard of his forwardnesse both in learning and godlinesse he was made scholer of the house With his years his worth growing and notice taken of his good parts his preferments likewise accordingly came on For from thence he was chosen to be Fellow of Peter-house Dâ—ctor Pern being then Master thâ—re who very tenderly affected him and when out of tendernesse of conscience in Queen Maries time upon expectation of som Commisâ—ioners that were to come downe visit to the University and settle Popery there he had entertained some thoughts of going beyond the Seas the D r. perceiving it and withall his resolution in matter of religion both encouraged and caused him notwithstand to stay promising him withall to take such order for him that keeping himselfe quiet he should remaine free from molestation that which according to his promise given him he also faithfully fulfilled Having thus by the favour and connivancy of the Doctor God reserving him for further and higher employments rid out those stormy and tempestuous times upon the dispersions of those blacke clouds that had formerly overspread and eclipsed the good parts of many by the happy sunshine of that illustrious Princesse Queene Elizabeths ascent to the throne of this Realme contrary to that that is wont to befall at the naturall Suns rising this our bright Star among others and above many others began now to shine forth and discover its luster Notice whereof being taken as in the Univerâ—ity so at Court he received advancement unto
man Drusius Renicherus and others he most courteously entertained and very liberally relieved a diligent preacher as well after his preferments as before seldome failing any Lords day while he was Bishop of Worcester notwithstanding his important and incessant emploiments otherwise but that he preached in some of the Parish Churches thereabouts and no lesse freqâ—ently when he was Archbishop visiting the Church and Pulpit at Crâ—ydon during the time of his residence there in the Vacations from attendance at Court He departed this world on the last of February being Wednesday in the year of grace 1603. and of his age 73. having bin Bishop of Worcester six years and five moneths and Archbishop of Canterbury 20. years and five moneths and lyeth enterred on the South side of the Church of Croydon with a faire Monument in memory of him His laâ—â— words to his Majesty who in person visited him the day before he dyed when he could hardly be understood are reported to have been Pro Ecclesiâ Dei pro Ecclesiâ Dei for the Church of God for the Church of God thereby intimating his care thereof even to the last The principall Monuments of his Charity are an Hospitall builded Colledge-wise at Croydon for a Warden and twenty eight Brothers and Sisters and a Free-School neer â—nto it with a convenient House for the School-Master and a standing stipend of twenty pounds by the year His Workes in writing published are onely these 1. His Answer to the Admonition to the Parliament 2. His Defence of the Answer to the Admonition 3. A Sermon on John 6. ver 25 26 27. Preached before Queene Elizabeth on March the 24. 1574. You courtly Prelats you that feare To loose your honors look ye here Make him your president and then You shall have honor spite of men He bred not but compos'd debateâ— Nor mov'd he in the Orbe of State By whose example Churchmen stood Lesse for the stile of great then good If factions chanc'd or diffence fell He would perswade and not compell To him our Phenix-Queen did share Proud Lambeths patriarchall chayre Where he remain'd the Churches Nurse Ten years twice told without a Curse The Life and Death of Lucas Trelcatius who dyed Anno Christi 1602. LVke Trelcatius was born at Erinum Anno Christi 1542. and brought up by his Aunt who was Abbesse of â— Nunnery his first education was in the School at Dowaiâ— where being of an acute wit he profited exceedingly in the knowledge of the humane Arts from thence he went to Paris and whil'st he studyed there he fell into acquaintance with Iohn Mercer the Hebrew Professor and Peter Ramus and being exceedingly affected with the love of the reformed Religion he forsook his Aunt and was maintained by the bounty of some Merchants of Flanders From thence he went to Aurelia and from thence to Sancerra in the twenty eight year of his age and being driven from thence by the tempest of Civill Wars he came into England and at London he taught a School by which he maintained himself eight years Then was he called by some Merchantâ— into Flanders to be their Pastor but enjoying little peace there he went to Bruxels where he continued in the exercise of his Ministery six yearâ—s and then meeting with opposition he went to Anâ—werp and that City being presently after besieged he was forced to stay there eight moneths after which being sent for to diverse places at length he was by the consent of his bretheren in the Ministery fixt at Leiden where he was made Pastor of the French Church which place he supplyed faithfully for the space of seventeen years He had scarce been there two years when for his excellent parts and learning he was chosen Divinity-Professor in that University also and at last having acquired much honor in both his offices he dyed of the Plague Anno Christi 1602. and of his age 60. Where vertue lives there need not be A question of sufficiency Trelcatius was a man whose worth Few men are able to set forth They that desire to know him well Must first know what it is t' excell THEODORVS BEZA The Life and Death of Theodorus Beza IN the year of our Lord God 1519. and on the foure and twentieth day oâ— Iune this faithfull Minister of the Church of Christ Theodorus Beza came into the world being borne at Vezelia an ancient Town in the Kingdome of France he was descended from Petrus a Beza being Governour of the same Town and Maria Burdoletia both of them being beautified with a lineall proceeding from a Noble and renowned Family His name imposed on him by his Parents imports the gift of God by which act they declared themselves to be vertuous and religious and let the Lord evermore blesse his Church with such gifts with such painfull labourers for the gathering in of his great harvest to his endlesse glory and to the eternall peace of such as seek salvation through Jesus Christ. This Beza being yet an infant not fully two years old was taken by his Unckle Nicholas Beza being a Councellor pertaining to the Senate of Paris where he was carefully and tenderly brought up for the space of three years being in that time acquainted with the knowledge of the Letters Being now five years old he was committed through the carefulnesse of his said Unckle unto the tuition of Melchior Walmarius a German who at that time taught the Greek tongue at Aurelia under whom he continued for the space of seven years in which time he attained unto great perfection both in the Greeke and Latine tongues and also which is more commendable his tender yeares were seasoned with the true knowledge of Christian Piety being drawn from the pure fountain of the Word of God by the same man His Master upon some occasions leaving France and returning into Germany Beza not without the advice of his friends went unto Orleans fully intending and resolving with himselfe to apply his minde unto the study of the Civill Law wherein at the age of twenty years he was advanced to be Licentiate Not long after leaving Orleans he tooke his journâ—y unto Paris to visit those friends and acquaintance which he had there living by whom he was entertained with great joy and received with much gladnesse and friendly courtesie but more espcially by his other Uâ—ckle Abbâ—t Trigidimonâ—an who to testifie his affection how greatly he loved him designed and appointed him to be his next successor in the Goverment of that Abbey whose revenweâ— were yeerely valued at five thousand French Crownes annexing also unto this the profits of two other places amounting yearely unto seven hundred Crownes intending also to confer other preferments upon him Beza being as it were in an earthly Paradise and abounding with those things which might seeme necessary for the prosecution of vice wherewith indeed he was for a time detained but not captivated as who is he that liveth and sinneth not nay and falleth not sometimes into
Ministeriall function and also to joyn with Calvin in the reading of the Divinity Lecture Where he was also againe advanced to be head Master of a Free-schoole which was set up by the perswasion of Calvin for the future benefit of the same City Notice being taken in France of his Confession of the Christian Faith which without question wrought deepe impression in the hearts of many he was intreated by Letters sent from some Peeres of France that he would be pleased to visit Anthony King of Navarre then residing in Aquitaine and to confer with him concerning matters of importance but especially concerning such things which might be of force to beget true knowledge in the groundâ— of Christian Religion for there was some hopes that if he could be brought thereunto that the Church of God would not be so cruelly inhumanely dealt withall within the Kingdome of France Which enterprize God giving a blessing thereunto wanted not its fortunate and happy successe though not in the dayes of Aâ—thony yet in the dayes of Charles the ninth for he not onely entring into a consideration of the truth of the Doctrinâ— of the Church of Rome but also into the truth of the Doctrine of the reformed Church and with many of his Nobles adhered unto the same and foâ—thwith sâ—nt both Embassadours and Letters to the Senate of Geneva to intreaâ— the presence of reverend Beza concerning the dâ—sciding of those Controversies which were at that time on foot betwixâ— the Papists and the Reformed Churches This request was with great joy condiscended unto by the Senate of Geneva who sent Beza with many prayers for the advancemâ—nt of Gods glory Peter Martyr was also called from Tigurum by the Mother Queen who with all speed came to Paris Great was the conflict which Beza had at that time in the â—resence of the King with Cardinall Lotharingus concerning the Reall Presence â— wherein he confuted the erronious opinion of the Cardinall affirming that the viâ—ible signes were touched with the hands eaten and drunken with the mouth but that the thing signified viz. thâ— Body and Blood of Christ was offered and received by Faith Which judgement of his the Cardinall approved of at the last as he himselfe testified unto the Queene and was also embraced by her selfe The conference being ended with happy successe to the glory of God and furtherance of his truth Martyr returned to Tigurum and Beza intended to goe unto Geneva but he was hindred by the Authority of the Queen who plainly told him that seeing he was a French man he might be the Author of much good unto his own Nation Beza being thus detained contrary to his expectation spent not the time unprofitably but betook himselfe unto the preaching of the Word sometimes in the Pallace of the King of Navarre sometimes in the house of the Prince Cordaeus and sometimes in the suburbes of the City of Paris for then it was by publick Proclamation decreed that the use of the reformed Religion should be tolerated in the suburbes without any Molestation but they enjoyed not that benefit long by reason of a conspiracy performed by Guisius and other wicked persons for the utter extinguishing of the truth who urging the King with the example of Balderinus that Religion was but a thing indifferent and that he might condemne and renounce the day after that which he approved and allowed the day before they received this answer from him That he would never put hiâ— fooâ— so far into the Sea but that he would be able to pluck it back againe when he listed and so he departed and forsooke the truth of Christ and never after sent for Beza to have any conference with him Whereupon a hot persecution entred into the bowels of France against the Protestants forty five of them being put to the sword in the same place where they were gathered together to heare the Word of God preacht whereupon Beza was sent to complaine unto the King of their inhumane cruelty but found no redresse whereupon preparation was made to defend themselves by force of Armes the Prince Condaeus desired Beza to remaine with him in so dangerous and necessary a season who althoughâ— it grieved him greatly to be absent from his flock at Geneva yet he consents unto the request of this religious Prince and remained with him preaching and exhorting Christians privately to a patient wayting of the Lords leasure The Protestants betook themselves unto Orleans to which place the enemies marching in the fields thereof was fought a terrible battle wherein Condaeus was taken prisoner and the Protestants lost the day who notwithstanding this sorrowfull accident were much comforted by those divine letters which were sent unto them by Beza and they still remaining firme in that doctrine which they had received Not long after a peace being concluded and the prisoners restored to their former liberty Beza obtained leave of the same Prince to returne unto Geneva after he had spent two and twenty monthes with great labour and manifest dangers of his life Comming to Geneva not without the great joy of the Inhabitants he went forward in his ordinary course of teaching both in the Church and Schoole continued with Master Calvin in reading the Divinity Lecture untill his death then he performed it onely himselfe appointing Calladonus Danaeus and Fayus to be the Humanity Lecturers in the same City And in this godly couse he laboriously continued untill the time that he was called unto Rupella by the generall intreaty and request of the French Churches and earnest desire of the Queen of Navarre and of other Peeres of France where the confession of the faith of the French Churches was repeated and confirmed and strenthned with the approbation of the Queen of Navarre and the Prince Condaeus and so he returned to Geneva againe and indefatigably continued his constant course of teaching and then he corrected his Annotations on the New Testament From thence he was cealld againe to Berna for the confutation of the error of Albâ—rius concerning justification who taught that our righteousnesse before God was a meere pasive quality inhaerent in our selves w ch opnion with other errorâ— of his hindring the growth of the truth of Christ were there condemned and the reading of his books forbidden by the Senate of Berne which being ended he returned unto Geneva againe and having notice of the great troubles to ensue not onely in France in generall but also in Geneva it selfe in particular he cauâ—ed publick prayers to be sent up unto God twice every weeke extraordinary for the turning away of his wrath and for the peace and flourishing state of the Church and so he continued preaching and praying for the advancement of the Gospell of Christ untill such time as age made him unfit for the performance of these duties Yet here by the way we may observe the great malice of the Romish Jesuites who before the payment of his debt to nature
scandalized him with a defection to the doctrine of the Church of Rome not much unlike that which was of late cast on that reverend Bishop of London but this impudent untruth was refuted by the Pastors of Geneva who by their writings and subscriptions of their names both in Latine and French testified the contrary unto the world many of them being present at his death who on the thirteenth of October in the year of our Lord 1605. being the Lords day rising early and calling his family to prayers which donâ— he walked up and downe some few paces and receiving some small quantity of wine repaired to his bed againe demanding whether all things were quiet in the City and when answer was made they were he forthwith gave up his soul into the hands of Almighty God with all alacrity and chearfulnesse after that he had lived in this vale of misery eighty six years and three months and nineteen dayes and after that he had painfully discharged a Pastorall office the space of sixt and forty yeers He was of stature somwhat tall but corpulent or bigge boned in his age he had a long thick beard as white as snow he had a grave Senators countenance broad faced but not fat and in generall by his comely person sweet affability and gravity he would have exhorted reverence from those that least loved him His great diligence and laborious travell for the advancing of Christs Kingdome and for the suppressing and beating downe of sin are made manifest by the learned Works which he hath left behind him as so many witnesses to eternity take them after this ordes 1 Poems printed by Henry Stephan 2 Psalmes printed with Buchanans 3 School-notes on the Greeke Alphabet 4 Abrahams sacrifice In Theologie 1 New translation of the new Testament with Annotations 2 Confession of Christian faith 3 Of punishing haereticks 4 The sum of Christianity 5 The doctrin of the Sacrament 6 The defence of the Church of Geneva 7 An answer against Nestorius and Eutichus his sect 8 Of the hypostaticall Vnion 9 Theses of the Trinity of Persons and Vnity of Essence 10 An answer to the reprâ—aches of Francis Baldwin 11 A treatise of Polygamie 12 Calvins life 13 Psalmes of David and five bookes of the other Prophets with Latine Paraphases 14 French Psalmes 15 Comments oâ—t of Saint Pauls Epistles 16 To the Romans 17 Galathians 18 Philippians 19 Colossians 20 Icones of many learned men especially Protestants 21 Pictures and Embleemes 22 Moral Ceremoniall Iudiciall law of Moses 23 A Praeface to Osiander 24 Of the Pestilence 25 Solomons Song in Latine verse 26 Homilies on Christs resurrection 27 Of the Pâ—onounciation of the French tongue 28 An answer to Jodic Harth of the Lords Supper 29 Questions and answeres on the Sacrament Si qua fides famae proles mihi difiet omnis At viria vera prole biatus ego Me populi me mistae reges dixere parentu Multa virum genui millia Christe tibi If fame may be beleeved I am he To whom an Infant can no relate be Yet blest with issue by a higher fate And that both many and legitimate Not onely people with their priests together But also Kings vouchsafe to call me father Thousands of souls O Christ have been by me Begotten through thy holy Word to thee Who knowes not learned Beza what dull eare Hath not large volumes of his hist'ry there Or what ill furnisht Gallery cannot show His reverend Picture marshall'd in the row Of rare and moderne Worthies to advance The glory of his pen renowned France From whose more painfull and illustrious quill Such Quintessence of sweetnesse did distill Which like the dropping Hermony pearly dew Refresht faire Syons plants and did renew Their drooping spirits wasted heretofore And blasted with the breath of Babils whoreâ— To whose blest name let every heart that did Ere prize true vertue turne a Pyramid IOHN RENOLDS The Life and Death of John Reinolds THis singular man of infinite reading this treasury of all learning both divine and humane summus ille vir immensae lectionis doctrinae omne genus eruditionis gazophilatium Doctor Iohn Reinolds was borne in the same County of Devoâ— and bred up in the same Colledge of Corpus Christi in Oxford with Iewell his auncient and R. Looker his contemporary And what Tully spake of Pompey his Noble exploits in War that they could not be matched by the valiant Acts of all the Roman Commanders in one year nor in all years by the processe of one Commander so it may truely be said of these three that they cannot be parrallelled by the students of all Counties brought up in one Colledge nor the students of all Colledges born in one County the two former mainely opposed the enemies of the doctrine the third of the discipline of the Church of England with like happy successe and they were all three in severall kinds very eminent if not equall and as Iewels fame first grew from the rhetoricke Lecture which he read with singular applause and Hookers from the Logicke so Reynolds grom the Greeke in the same house The Author that he read was Aristotle whose three incomparable bookes of Rhetoricke he illustrated with so exquisite a commentary so richly fraught with all polite littrature that as well in the commentary as in the text a man may finde that aureum flumen rerum verborium that golden ensturrent the Prince of Oratours telleth us of It was his manner every Tearm to begin his Lectures with an exhortatory Oration to his auditors of these his elegant paraeneticks two were published in print by himselfe the other were since his death put forth by Henry Iackeson Fellow of the same Colledge of these later an intilligent reader will give a like censure to that of the Oratour sunt tantuam phidiae Minerva sed tumen ex eadem efficina they are not like the other two his malter his pieces yet any man may perceive they were drawne with the same pensill Whilest he continued this Lecture it was his hap as it had been of Politian and Erasmus before him to tread upon a nest of Hornets a sort of wrangling Sophisters bred of the excrements of the Dunsticall Commenters upon Aristotle fed advocates to plead for all his Phylosophicall errours and sworne enemies to all polite learning these he so strongly confuted in his Lectures and faceciously derided in his Orations that any ingenuous man that peruseth them be he a Crassus Agelastus will be in like manner affected as Erasmus was when he read the Booke intituled Epistolae obscurorum virorum at which he fell into such a laughter that he much hurt his spleen and endangered his health All this while this our Iohn Reinolds was well affected to the Romish Religion and his Brother William Reinolds earnest for Reformation which difference in judgement proved a fireball of contention between them and engaged them in a strange Duell much like to that
brest but entered not his body not so much by reason of the weake fence of his Gowne held up before him in folds as the strong buckler of faith which whosoever hath on him need not feare any torrour by night nor the arrow that flyeth by day Psalme 91.5 Howbeit though he then shunned the danger of this flightshaâ—t yet he escaped not other arrowâ—s mentioned by the Psalmist even bitter words these sharpe arrowes headed with malice and pointed with envie were daily shot at him not onely by forreigne enemies abroad as namely Weston and Spalatenses after his revolt dictione sarâ—ata studio vanissimus secta fanaticus but by ill willers at home whose loose life kept no good quarter with his strict government Who as he was a most exact observer of the Statutes himselfe so he was a most sever censurer of the contemners and wilfull breakers thereof and though he were of a tender and compassionate disposition yet like a wise Chirurgion when hâ— saw Plaisters and Poultesses would doe no good and the flesh begin to gangreine he cut off by expulsion two rotten members of that Society Cuncta prius tentanda sed immedicabile vulnus â—use recidendum est ne pars sincera traâ—atur The one of them was a Chaplaine of the House homo nullarum artium nullarum parâ—ium a worthlesse man who to his other impardonable crimes added a dull but most malicious Libâ—ll against the President himselfe and therefore deserved not onely to be banished the Colledge but exiled also out of all memory the other was a Batchellour of Art as I take it intra brennium probationes a man of other wise commendablâ— parts but of whom it might be truely said as it was of Galba ingenium Galbae male habitat This Delinquent who by often reiteration of the like offences had encurred the censure of expulsion which the President and seven Seniors were bound by oath to execute upon him craved leave of the President to make his farewell Oration His Theame was Medicum saeverum intemporanes aeger facit that is A waward Patient maketh a froward Physitian In that Speech of his he tooke occasion to justifie the President and Fellowes proceeding against him and depâ—ored his incorrigible enormities with teares but then it was too late nullis ille movetur Fleâ—ibus aut voces ullus tractabiles audit I confesse Senâ—ca his observation is true qui vult amari languida regâ—eâ— manu a Governour that will be loved and generally spoken well ofâ— must hold an easie reine but where mettle Colts or restie jades are to be broken he that holdeth noâ— a streight raine and maketh not use of a strong curâ—e may be cast out of the saddle as Doctor Reynolds his immediate Predecessour had like to have been whose pruning Knife though it were keen and sharpe yet was so discreetly used by him that the choyce Plantâ— in that Nursery never thrivâ—d better then in his time About this time Queen Elizabeth exchanged her mortall crown with â—n immortall and King Iames succeeded her and swayed the Scepter of this Kingdome who in the beginning of his reigne desirous to settle peace in the Church commanded many learned men to meet at Hampton Court to compose some differences about the externall Discipline of the Church In that Conference what part by royall command was put upon Doctor Reâ—nolds and how he acted it with profession and promise of all conformity appears by the Acts thereof set forth by Bishop Barloe After this Conference is pleased his Majesty to set some learned men on worke to translate the Bible into the English tongue among others Doctor Reynolds was thought upon to whom for his great skill in the originall Languages Doctor Smith afterward Bishop of Glosâ—er Doctor Harding President of Magdalens Doctor Kilbie Rector of Lincolne Colledge Doctor Bret and others imployed in that worke by his Majesty had recourse once a weeke and in his Lodgings perfected their Notes and though in the midst of this Worke the gout first tooke him and after a consumption of which he dyed yet in a great part of his sicknesse the meeting held at his Lodging and he lying on his Pallet assisted them and in a manner in the very translation of the booke of 〈◊〉 was translated to a better life All the time of his sicknesse saâ—â— when he conferred with the translators was spent in praâ—er and hearing partly Treatises of devotion and partly bookes of controversie read unto him This course held till Assention day when his sicknesse growing sore upon him he fell in a trance of which when he was recovered he spake comfortably to us all there present saying that He well hoped that he should have ascended that very day of oâ—r Lords ascention but now saith he I shall stay a little longer wâ—â—h you in which time I intreat you to read nothing to me but such chapters of holy Scripture as I shall appoint Among others designed by him when we read the first chapter of Saint Paul to the Philippians and staid a little upon those words God is 〈◊〉 record how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Iesus Chriâ—â—â— and this I pray that your love may abound yet more and more 〈◊〉 knowledge and in all judgement that you may approve things thâ—t are excellent that you may be sincere and without offence till the 〈◊〉 of Christ being filled with the fruits of righteousnesse which are 〈◊〉 Iesus Christ unto the glory and praise of God And proceeding afterwards in that chapter to the twentieth verse As 〈◊〉 wayes so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body whether it 〈◊〉 by life or by death for to me to live is Christ and to dye is gainâ—â— but if I live in the flesh this is the fruit of my labour yet what I shall choose I wot not for I am in a strait between two having a desire to depart and to be with Christ which is farre better neverthelesse to abide in the flesh is more needfull for you And as we were going further and reading the five and twentietâ— verse having this confidence I know that I shall abide and continâ—â— with you he bad us there stop and make an end intimatinâ— thereby that unto us which after a few dayes â—ell out to our great griefe that he was not to continue with us By this time the University being full of the newes of his end approaching the Noble men Sons then reâ—iding in the University and the Heads of divers Colledges together with the Kings Professor Doctor Holland came to visit him who Prayed with him and for him for whose love Doctor Reynolds thanked him the day before he dyed when the Vicechancellour Doctor Aery and Master Boâ—lton of Brazennose Master Wilkinson of Wadsdowne Master Lindle Vice-president of the Colledge and my selfe came to take our last leave of him at the motion of Master Boulton Doctor Aery acquainted Doctor Reynolds what scandalous reports the Papists
had cast out concerning the nature of his disease and how they were confuted by Doctor Chennell his Physitian Master White his Apothecary and added withall that it was likely they might spreaâ— such a brute of him as they had of Beza that he recanted upon his death bed and therefore that it was earnestly desired by many of his deare friends in the University that he would give some testimony of his constancy in the truth before his departure at this he shookee his head and seemed much to be grieved because his speâ—ch was taken from him which the Vicechancellor perceiving with teares in his eyes besought him that he would give him leave to set downe a forme in writing to which if he liked it God might enable him to set his hand and thereby give satisfaction to all his friends which Doctor Reynolds expressed by sighes that he approved of the Vicechancellors advising with the rest of us there present wrote a few lines to this effect These are to testifie to all the world that I dye in the profession of that faith which I have taught all my life both in my Preaching and in my Writings with an assured hope of my salvation onely by the merits of Christ my saviour this forme being â—wise read unto him he seriously pondered every Word and after clapt his hand upon his nose whereby his servant Iohn Duhurst who attended him in his sicknesse told us that he desired a paire of spectacles which aâ—ter they were reached unto him and he had put them on he tooke the pen out of Doctor Aeries hand and subscribed his name not onely in legible but in very faire caracters at which we all admired the more because he had diverse times that morning assayed to write but could not through extreame weaknesse write one word or syllable in a legible hand whether the earnest intention of his minde at this time strengthned his hand or God extraordinarily assisted him I leave it to the judgement of all that are truely religious and take such things to heart The morrow after death seazing upon all parts of his body he expressed by signes that he would have the passing bell tole for him and as his friends runing in compassed his bâ—d all about and every one cast in his shot which was some choyce and comfortable text of holy Scripture he lifting up one of his hands which presently fell downe and stirâ—d no more and after his lifting up his eyes to heaven and fixing them there immovable without any trouble or signe of paine without so much as any sigh or groan he breathed out his soule into the hands of his redeemer the Thursday after Ascenâ—ion day betweene eleven and twelve of the clock the twenty one of May 1607. on Munday following he wâ—â— honorably interred the Vice-chancellor in close mourning the Noble mens sons heads of Celledges and Hals with all their companies in Academicall habits and the Mayor and Aldermen in their Scarlet gownes attending the Funerall the corps brought out of Corpus Christi Colledge was first carried to Saint Maries where a funerall Sermon was made by Doctor Aâ—rie then Vice-chancellour after the Sermon ended the body being removed to the Chancell M r. Isackâ— Wake then the University Oratour after Lord Embassador in Venice and France successively honoured the dead with â— short but elegant Panegyrick which followes after this 〈◊〉 body was carried back to the Colledge and their a secoâ—d Funerall Oration appointed to be made in the Chappâ—ll neare his grave but the Chappell being not capable of the fourth part of the Funerall troope a Desque was set up and covered with mourning in the quadrangle and there a briefe History of his life with the manner of his death sâ—t forth by Daniel Featley then fellow and deane of Arts in â—hat Colledge After his buriall a Monument and Statue in the Chappell was erected for him by Doctor Spencer his successour with an inscription in golden letterâ— as followeth Virtuti Sacrum JO. RAINOLâ—â— S. Theâ—l D. erudâ—tione Piâ—taâ—e Integritate incomparabili hujus Coll. Pes. qui obiâ—t Mai 21 0. Anno 1607 0. aetaâ— suae 5â— 0. JO. SPENâ—ER audâ—torâ— successor virtutum sanctitatis admirator b.m. amoris erâ—o posuit But these are darke and divine caracters in respect of those wherewith his fame is Printed in his Workes whereof some are come to light others may in good time His Printed Workes are these 1 Two Orations Printed in the year 1576. 2 His six Theses Printed in the year 1579. 3 His conference with Heart Prinâ—ed in English 1585. and afterwards translated into Latine by Henry Pary Bishop of Gloster and Printed by command of Archbishop Bancroft 1610. 4 De Romanae ecclesiae Idololatria Printed in the year 1596. 5. An Apologie of his Theses 1602. 6 Since his death certaine Epistles betweene him Doctor Gâ—gâ—r and Alberiâ—us Gentius concerning Stage playes 7 A Treatise of divorce amd marrying againe in case of adultery 8 A câ—nsure of the Apochrypha in two Tâ—mâ—s containâ—ng in them 250. of his Lectures in the Divinity Schooles 9 Cerâ—aine Epistles and Orations of his in Latine set forth by Henry Jackson 10 His Lectures upon Obediah in English with a Sermon of thanksgiving for the Queens Majesties deliverance from a dangerous treason set forth by Mr. Hinde His Works which remaine in Manuscript never yet printed areâ— 11 A commenâ—ary in Latine upon Aristotles three bookâ—s of Rheâ—oricke 12 The materials and first draught of six bookes de Idololatria Romanae ecclâ—siae 13 Sermons upon Aggi the Prophet Preached in Oxford 14 His learned answer to Sanders de scismate Anglicano in defence of our Reformation the regall supremacy and the booke of Ordination of Bishops Priests and Deacons 15 A defence of the English liturgie against Robert Browne the father of â—he separatists his scismaticall booke 16 A Treatise of the beginning and progesse of Popish errours and that for the first three hundred yeares after Christ Bishops ruled their owne diocesse without subjection to the Pope 17 A Treatise of Daniel Weekes against Hugh Braughton dedicated to Archbishop Whitgift A Funerall Oration delivered in St. MARIES Church in Oxon at the sad Interment of Doctor Iohn Reynols by Master Isacke Wake the University Orator May 25. 1607. Translated out of Latine HOw fraile and unconstant the condition of our life is and how fitly resembled to a dreame or a tale I could wish most honoured Doctors the rest of the sad troope all the children of our mother the University had it so pleased the highest wee might have learned by any other experiment rather then this sad spectacle doubtlesse we have seene but too many evidences of the decrepit age of the warld now drooping to ruine as the distemper of the Heavens the malignity of the Stars the boysterous gusts of the Windes the deluges of water from the Clouds the foming billoes of the Sea swelling with unheard of fury which sad presages terrifie
is a better man then Austine the Bishop And howsoever others admired in Reynolds his knowledge lowlinesse of minde and incredible abstinence in all which he so excelled that he even exceeded wonder yet for my part I doe and ever shall admire at one thing in him chieflâ— even that he could so sleight and neglect all wayes of preferment of whom although I will not say as Illyricus and Wigandus spake of Luther That he was the Germane Prophet yet since neither Luther nor Calvin nor Beza nor Whitaker can challenge any honour which Reynolds hath not merited I cannot but exceedingly congratulate our Countrey where he was borne our Mother the University where he was educated and that most pregnant House of excellent wits wherein he sucked the first rudiments of exquisite Literature who that I may compare him with those of the same Colledge for vertue piety learning in the judgement of many is extolled above their Iewell Wotton Vines Hooker yea and above their Pole Let yet Westone that lewd and shamelesse Rabshake belch out what reproaches he pleaseth against him and charge him not onely with stupid dulnesse but also that he counterfeited sicknesse and pretended onely to a disease to preserve his credit Belike then all we University men were leaden witted who admired so dull a man we were besides our selves who beleeved that he was sicke whom to our great griefe we here see dead Notwithstanding this Weston himselfe so like his Unckle in his ill conditions and ignominious flight when he challenged all the Heads of the University and branded them for impure onely for that some of them had entred into the state of Matrimony could not finde any one Act of Doctor Reynolds in all his life to blemish him with all Let this runnagate Weston passe who was wandered too farre to looke into his life what report was given him by those that were neer Truely every one loved his person his demeanure his integrity If any object against him overmuch strictnesse and a resolution not to be diverted from just proceedings by any motives though never so powerfull If thiâ— or any thing else of this nature might be disliked in him I dare confidently affirme as Seneca doth of Cato that a man may with much more ease prove the fact which he chargeth Reynolds with to be faire then Reynolds to be any way foule But blessed Saint he'â— already in the caelestiall Quire As for us who now honour the remaines of this most excellent and learned man we shall never confidently pronounce Oxford bleâ—â—ed till she can boast of another Reynolds For though we may have men of singular eloquence infinite reading rare wits grave judgements studious courteous and very famous for their Workes to be left behinde them yet a Reynolds in all respects we shall never have But why doe I name this man of a thousand as if we still had him when we see the grave openeth her mouth wide to devoure these small reliques of him bâ—fore us which we now last see salute and musâ— take our farewell of â—or ever This minute is the last we can Behold thiâ— rare accomplisht man For my part I must stand dumbe when I should commend his remaines to their honorable interment for Nor tongue nor pen nor Poets bayes Can set forth hiâ— deserved praise I will therefore borrow part of an Epitaph from Sophocles Come friends and lend your helpe let 's now inter Truths noble champion and Romes conquerer And never let the best the chiefest dare To wrong his ashes by a proud compare Behold in lesse then halfe a span The lovely modell of that Man Whose worth a world as big againe Were all too little to containe That famous Reynolds at the stroke Of whose learn'd Quill Romes sturdy Oke Trembled whom had not early death Prevented thus his very breath Had made such winde fals round about In Babels forrestâ— that no doubt In some few dayes her savage Beasts Had found no covert nor her Uulters nests He was Times wonder vertâ—es story Truths champion and the Churches glory The Life and Death of Joseph Scaliger who dyed Anno Christi 1609. JOseph Scaliger the son of Iulius Caesar Scaliger was borne aâ— Aginum Anno Christi 1540. and at nine years old was sent by his father to School at Burdeaux but after three yeares stay there the Plague breaking forth he returned to his father againe who set him every day to make an Oration whereby he attained to such an exactnesse in the Latine tongue that not long after he composed that excellent Tragedy of Oedipus which caused his friends to admire such ripenesse of wit in such tender years At nineteen years old his father being dead he went to Paris to learne the Greâ—k tongue whâ—re for two months space he applyed himselfe to the Lectures of that learned man Adrian Turneby buâ— wanting other helps he lost most of that time which caused him to shut himselfe up in his study and there by extraordinary diligence joyned with his naturall aptnesse he began to suck in the first rudiments of the Greek tongue and before he had well learned all the coâ—jugatioâ—â—â— he gat him an Homer and in twenty one dayâ—s learned it all over framed for himselfe a Greek Grammer and never usâ—d the help of any other he learned thâ— other Greek Pâ—â—ts in four months more Havâ—ng thus bestowed two yearâ—â—n the study of the Greeke he grew very desirous to adde the knowledge of the Hebrew to it and though he knew not one letter of it yet he fell to the study of it without any other help He wrote much in verse both those languages but to avoid the repute of ambition would not suffer them to be Printed He read over many Greek and Hebrew Authors and spent much time in interpreting and clearing of them from errors Anno Christi 1563. he began to travell into diverse Countries and made little stay any where till he was called to the University of Leiden Anno Christi 1593. to be Professor there in which place he spent sixteen yeares making the place famous both by his Lecâ—ures and Writings and at last dyed of a Dropsie Anno Christi 1609. and of his age sixty nine The aforâ—mentioned Turneby who was an excellently learned man himselfe called this Scâ—liger Portentosi ingenii juvenem a young man of a stupendious wit How can the worthy name and memory Of Scaliger in black oblivion dye Who by his pregnant wit and studious braines And indefatigable care and paines In Greek and Hebrew grew so excellent That being sent for he to Leidâ—n went Where he was made Professour and became A man of high renown and spreading fame And gracing much that University For fifteen years he there at last did dye The Life and Death of Amandus Polanus who dyed Anno Christi 1610. AMandus Polanus was borne in Silesia Anno Christi 1561. when his Parents had bred him up at School they sent him to Vratislavia
where he spent six years and from thence he went to Tâ—bing where differing from Doctor Andreas abouâ— predestination he went thence to Basil Anno Christi 1583. in which place he wholly set himselfe to the study of Divinity and being made Tutor to some young Noblemen went to Geneva Heidleberge and to some other places with them he was madâ— Doctor in Divinity by Grynaeus Anno 1590. and having afterwards at Geneva publickly expounded the Prophesie of Malachie he returned to Basil where he was chosen the Professor of Divinity which place he faithfully discharged for fourteen years space expounded Daniel Ezekiel and a good part of the Psalmes afterwards falling sick of a Feaver he wholly resigned up him himselfe to the will of God comforted himselfe with diverse pregnant Texts of Scriptures and so departed quietly in the Lord Anno 1610. and of his age 51. How justly may Polanus have a part Of honour 'mongst these men of high desert A learned Doctor of Divinity And was of Basils University Chosen Professour where with love and fame For fourteen years he managed the same Then falling sick he of a feaver dy'd Whose soul doth in celestiall joyes reside The Life and Death of Thomas Holland who dyed Anno Christi 1612. THomas Holland was born in Shropshire Anno Christi 1538. and brought up in Exceter Colledge in Oxford where he tooke his degrees with much applause afterwards he Commenced Doctor in Divinity was chosen Master of the Colledge and for his learning was preferred to be â—he Regius Professor or Doctor of the Chair wherein he succeeded Doctor Humphred and so deported himselfe in the same that he gat the approbation and admiration both of that Univâ—rsity and of Forreign Universities also Hee was like Apollos a man mighty in the Scriptures and as one saith of him Adeb cum Patribus familiaris ac si ipse Pater cum Scholasticis ac si Seraphicus Doctor i. e. he was so familiarly acquainted wiâ—h the Fathers as if himselfe had been one of them and so verst in the Schoolmen as if he were the Seraphick Doctor He was also a faithfull Preacher of the truth and one that adorned it by his holy life and conversation A zealous defender of the true Religion and a great hater of superstition and Idolatry iusomuch that when he went any journy calling the fellows of the Colledge together he used to say to them Commendo vos dilectioni Dei odio Papatus superstitionis I commend you to the love of God and to the hatred of Popery and superstition He continued Doctor of the Chair twenty yeares and was every way as famous for his Religion and holinesse of life as he was for his learning when in his old age he grew weak and sickly he spent all his time in fervent Prayes and heavenly Meditations aud when his end approached he often sighed out Come O Come Lord Iesus thou morning star Come Lord Iesus I desire to be dissolved and to be with thee and so he qâ—ietly departed in the Lord Aâ—no Christi 1612. and of his age 73. And worthily doth Doctor Holland merit His predecessours praises to inherit Who for 's great learning and his parts most rare Was Regius Professour Doct'r o th' Chair Of Exeter Colledge with approbation Of all that knew him even to admiration I th'Schoolmen aâ—d the Fathers so well seen As if he had Seraphick Doctor been A pious and most painefull Preacher known A faithfull zealous frâ—end to Trâ—th and One That heartily did hate idolatry Who as he liv'd a precious Saint did dye IOHN BALE The Life and Death of John Bale AMong those who in these latter times have laboured in throwing open the skirts of that Romish strumpet who with her cup of fornication had a long time bewitched a great part of the Christian world and laying open her abominations to the light of the Sun and the sight of of the world none have traveled more nor taken pains to better purpose then this our Countriman Iohn Bale whose troublesome life tossed to and fro and exposed to many dangers difficulties and distresses my purpose is briefly to relate in its most remarkable passages that which is testified of him by that worthy and much renouned divine D. r Laurence Humfrey in a Poeme of his intituled the Burden of Rome wherein he affirmeth that Vâ—rgerius had in this kinde done somewhat Platina much more Luther very much or the most of any before him but this our Bale as much almost as could be even all if it were at least possible to rake up all the â—ilth and dirt of that vile â—inke and common sewer He came into this world toward the middest of King Henâ—y the seventh his raigne not many yeares after that famous and usefull invention of printing was grown to some perfection having not been above thirty years as yet in any use by help wherof as learning and knowledg was generally much improved and many Monuments preserved that would otherwise have perished so great use did this our Bale make of it as we shall hereafter shew as well for the bringing to light of auncient Records that had lien long burâ—ey in the dark and but for him might so have done in everlasting oblivion as also for the publishing of many writings and works both of his owne and other mens He was borne in Suffolke his Parents but of meane estate nor free from Romish superstition that then generally overspread the whole surface of this realme by meanes of of their poverty and geeat charge being overburdened with a numerous issue through the advice and perswasion of some of their blinde leaders such as those dayes afforded perceiving the towardlinesse that then appeared in him yet a child being but twelve years of age he was placed in the Convent of Carmelite Fryars at Norwich In which place as also afterward in the University of Cambridge whither he was from thence removed he gave himself to the study of the Artâ— and of Divinity such as in those timeâ— was in repute yea aloâ—e publikely professed But when the light of the Gospell which had formerly for the most part been smothered and supprest began now to break forth by the instigation of that right honourable and truly Noble Lord for it is vertue and piety alone that affordeth true Nobility the Lord Wentworth he diverted his studies and applyed himselfe now not to rake any longer in those muddy streames and miry puddles of Divinity falsly so tearmed which he had plunged himselfe in before but to repaire directly to the well-head to betake himselfe to the fource of all true knowledg to search into the written Word of God where he might be sure to finde the waters cleane and cleere free from all impurity and mixture of humane invention therein to dive and thence to draw that which he might both drink deepe of himselfe and impart of to others without damage and detriment to himsele That which
comon shore Untill it stunk and stunk him out of dore Twlve years he serv'd the Babilonian with Drank of her cup and wallowed in her ditch Untill the sunshine of diviner Truth Shot saving Beames into his hopefull youth And led him thence to serve another Saint Whose mirth was â—eares whose freedom was restraint Whose progresse was a banishment whose food Was want and Famine and whose drinke was blood His dayes were full of troubles and his nights Were sad exchanges stor'd with feares and frights His wealth was Poverty his peace was strife His life was death His death eternall life ANDREAS GERARDVS HYPERIVS The Life and Death of Andraeas Gerardus IN the yeare of our Lord 1511. this Andraeus Gerardus was born at Hyperiâ— a strong and populous Town situate within the Province of Flanders his Father was a man of great estimation amongst the inhabitants of the same town by reason of his singular knowledge in the Law his Mother was discended from one of the Noblest families of that Province both of them being carefull of the education of thâ—s Gerardus they sent him unto Iacobus Papa a famous and excellent Poet to be instructed in the knowledge of the tongues which he attained unto in short time partly by the care of this Iacobus and partly by the help of Iohannes Sepanus being an assistant unto Iacobus Papa a man excellently learned and very skilfull both in the Greek and in the Hebrew tongue where he continued untill he came unto the age of 13. years at which time he desired to be acquainted with the French tongue and for that cause he became an Auditor unto Iohannes Lactaeus a man learned and eloquent who publickly taught the French tongue in those parts here he remained for the space of one year and afterwards by the advice of his father he was sent unto Tovrney where a publick School was newly erected for the information of youth in the Latine Greek Hebrew tongus but the discipline of that School being not pleasing unto his father he took him from thence againe intending to have him instructed in manners aswell as in learning wherefore he intended to send his unto Lavan an Academy in Brabant but hearing that too much liberty was there given and granted unto youth whereby they came to be corrupted with many vices he altered his purpose and bethought himselfe of sending him unto Paris where he himselfe in his youth had studyed but that determination was also hindred by the continued warres betwixt Charles the fift Emperour of Germany and Francis King of France wherefore he resolved to keepe him at home for a space untill he could dispose of him according to his minde employing him in the writing of such thinks as pertaine to the office of a Lawyers Clarke in which action he continued so long that he had almost forgotten whatsoever he had learned before now in the yeare 1525. it pleased God to call for his fathâ—r out of this vale of misery who on his death bed streightly charged and commanded his Mother to send Gerardus unto Paris that so he might goe forward in his studyes as soone as the Warâ— were quieted in France betwixt the Emperour and the King which fell out in the year 1528. then went Gerardus unto Pariâ— being furnished with Commendatory letters unto Antonius Helhucius then Senator of the Pâ—rliament â—nd unto Iohannes Campis Licenciate in Divinity who were also intreated to furnish him with things necessary for his studyâ—s if hiâ— mother were hindred by the continuation of the Wars from the performance of the â—ame this Iohannes de Campiâ— seeing the hopefulnesse of the youth kept him in his owne house the space of one year where he attained unto great perfâ—ction in Logick the year following he wâ—nt unto Paris where he acquainted himselfe with Iâ—â—â—â—imus Bingelbiâ—guâ—â— Bâ—abanâ—er a man excellently qualified from whom Gerardâ—s received good instructions touching a methodicall manner of proceeding in his studies after that hâ— had continued here for the space of three years for the better retayning of tâ—at learning which he had gotten he privâ—tly read both Logick and Rhetorick unto others himselfe remaining still an Auditor unto the publick explanation of Aristotles Phisicks in the Schools In the year following he desired to see Flanders and to visit his friends and to know how much of that Portion was remaining which his Father had left him for the prosecution of his studyes which being done and finding a sufficient competency to remaine which would keep him â— long time at the University he returned unto Paris againe with and an intent to addict himselfe unto studyes of greater moment and so he forthwith entred upon the study of Divinity for which Paris at that time was famous and taking a great delight therein he daily frequented the Divinity Schooles so as he came to be of a singular judgement in matters of Controversies and at vacant times he would be take himselfe unto the Physick Lectures unto which hâ— had a naturall inclination he would also be familias with Cleonard Sâ—urmius Latomus then publick professors of the Tongues in the same University Having now well furnished himselfe with knowledge he desired to take a view of other Countries and Provinces lying within the Kinodome of France and that for two causes first that he might prrfect himselfe in the French Tongue and secondly that he might have a fuller understanding of the custome and disposition of that Nation and so leaving of the University he traveled through most parts of France where having given satisfaction unto himselfe he shaped his câ—urse towards Italie taking a full view of that part which lyeth betweene the Alpes and Bononia being now about the age of twenty four years he returned out of Italie into Flanders in the year 1535. From whence he went unto Lovan because he had sent his library from Paris unto the same place and having safely disposed of the same he betook himselfe againe to traâ—ell viewing almost all Lower Germany viz Gilderland Brabant Cleveland Vtrecht Freezland Holland and Zealand and from hence in the year of our Lord 1537. and in the twenty six year of his age he went into upper Germany to take view of such â—â—mous learned men as were to be found in those parts in which peregrination he saw Colen Marpurge Eâ—ford Lipsieâ— and Wittenberge and then returned againe into Flanders where he was set upon by some of his friends who advised him to betake himselfe unto some staid course of life seeing that his patrimony was all spent the gratesâ— part in the University the remainder in his travels unto which just demand and desire of his friends he was soone perswaded to subscribe and consent and forthwith began seriously to consider with himselfe how he might obtaine a place wherein he might exercise his gifts for the generall good of the Country whilst he was busie about that matter his friends had obtained by letters pattens from the Pope that
serious meditation of the reformation of Religion in the Churches he desired to conforme the Citizens of Hassia unto the example of the Primitive Church he desired to remove many reliques of superstition out of the Church he desired to establish that Ecclesiasticall discipline which was ready to fall unto the great detriment of the Church In the midst of these heavenly cogitations it pleased the Lord to send his messenger for him which he well perceiving by the continuall increasing of his paines he desired to have the Communion administred unto him afterwards he told his wife what he would have done after his death after that he had instructed his children how they should carry themselves towards God and how towards their mother and how towardâ— men and his yongest son standing amongst them hâ— laid his hand on his head uttering these Words discemi fili mandata domini ipse enaâ—riet te Keepe the commandaments of the Lord my son and he will provide for thee then â—urning himselfe to those who were present he declareâ— unto them that he dyed in that faith which he had constantly professed so many yeares in that City which words being spoken he fell asleepe and was buried at Marpurge in the year our Lord 1564. and in the 53. year of his life All things which are to be required in a Teacher are to be found in this Gerardus first he was learned and his learning was also joyned with experience secondly he had an excellent faculty and method of teaching thirdly he was laborious in his function fourthly he was gravâ— fiftly of an unspotted life and conversationâ— he was modest patient and constant all which sufficiently declare that he was set apart by the Lord for the converting of many souls unto Christ. His Works which he left unto the world as a rich legacy are here set downe 1 A Commentary on the twentieth Psalme 2 On the twelft Psalme 3 A method for a Preacher 4 On the Romans 5 Of reading and meditating the Scriptures 6. Method of Theologie 7 Theologicall Topicks 8 Catechisme Other Works in two Tomes First 1 Of the study of the Scripture 2 Of the institution of Colledges 3 A triall of students 4 Of Catechising 5 Of justification by faith 6 Of Benificence to the poor 7 Of Feasts Tome 2. 1 Of the duty of hearers 2 Of Providence 3 Of Selfe-examination 4 Of the marriage of Ministers 5 Of the Sacraments 6 Notes upon Aristotles Ethicks 7 Physicks 8 Logicke 9 Rhetoricke 10 Arithmaticke 11 Gromaticke 12 Cosmographik 13 Optics 14 Astronomy Set forth after his death 1 Annotations of Isaiah 2 Commentaries on the Galathians 3 Ephesians 4 Philippians 5 Colossians 6 Thessalonians 7 Timothy 8 Titus 9 Philemon 10 Iude. 11 Hebrewes You that desire to lead a life Free from th'incumbrances of strife Draw neare and with a carefull â—row Let brave Gerarduâ— teach you how Reader observe and thou shalt finde By trauell he inrtch'd his minde His active heart was alwayes free To Propagate true piety He alwayes studied to displace Errours from the Churches face He gain'd no envy but from those That were Religions chiefest foâ—â— He would perswade intreat advise His Fellow-preachers to dispise Those fruits of Idlenesse which he defy'd Thus liv'd Gerarduâ— thus Gerardus dy'd ARETIVS BENEDICTVS The Life and Death of Aretius Benedictus AS the Lord hath never been wanting unto his Church both in these and in forraine parts in the stirring up of painfull and â—ealous Watch-men for the Propagating of his truth and for the enlightning of the understanding of those whom he had elected unto salvation in Jesus Christ so he hath not been deficient in procuring the affection of eminent persons towards the same Professors by whose meanes they have been defended and sheltered against the inviterate malice both of the Divell and his members Malicious enemies unto the Word of truth amonst whom the Senate of Berna may justly receive worthy Commendations for the constant love shewed unto the zealous professors of the truth it being indeed the maine pillar which doth support the welfare of a Common-wealth and which doth draw downe a blessing from heaven upon their intended designes In this â—amous City was Benedictus Aretius borne a faithfull zealous professors of the truth of Christ being beautified with excellent endowments both of learning and piety which did sufficiently testifie that he was set apart by the Lord for the winning of many unto Christ. He spent his youth in his owne Country amongst the Switzers wherein he was instructed and trained up in the knowledge of the Arts but ayming at a greater perfection labouring â—or a sounder judgement in the works writings of other learned and Orthodox men he left his Country for a season and went unto Marpurg where by reason of his eminent gifts and qualities he gained the love of many learned Schollers and was designed and oppointed to read the Logick Lecture in the same place which after he had performed for the space of some years to the great profit of his Auditors to the never dying fame of himselfe and to the generall applause of all the City having also attained in some measure to that perfection which he had formerly desired he returned again unto Berne where he was joyfully received and by a generall consent appointed to open the Scriptures and to instruct the inhabitants in the way of life in which exercise he observed such an edifying method both in his publick reading and Preaching that he drew great multitudes of people unto him who beholding his proceedings with great admiration with one consent praised the Lord for sending so learned and so painfull an instrument among them for the plantâ—ng of the truth in their hearts So excellent was his forme of teaching that many Divines came unto his Lectures not onely for the information of their judgements in matters of Controversies but also to learne his method of teaching which being obtained by some they proved excellent instruments in the Church for the converting of the lost sheepe of Israel and many would not in publicke make triall of their owne parts before they had continued for a season to be his Auditors His writings were greatly in request and desired greatly of all that either knew him or heard of him but especially his labours in Divinity one of his bookes called Eramen Theologicâ—m came to the Presse twelve times within the space of three years which doth declare the excellency and how usefull and beneficiall it was unto the Church in those times and in these dayes also it is a Worke fit to be perused of all such as doe intend the study of Divinity After that he had continued this constant course of teaching in the City of Berne for the space of many years to the great furtherance of the glory of God and benefit of his Church it pleased the Lord to take him unto himselfe and to Crowne him with a diâ—dem of everlasting glory
with the rest of his holy Saints in the year of grace 1574. the twentieth two of April his death was much lamented by the Citizens of Berne who received some comfort by the beholding of those excellent and learned Treatises which he left behind him as so many never dying testifications of his zeale for the advancing of the Gospell of Christ. 1 A forme for Students 2 Two tables of the Hebrew Grammar 3 A triall for Divines 4 The History of Valentine the Gentile 5 A censure of the propositions of the Catabaptists 6 Two Treatises of the sacred Scriptures 7 Common places of Divinity 8 Lectures on the Lords Supper 9 Commentaries on the four Evangelists 10 On the Acts of the Apostles 11 An Iitroduction unto the reading of Saint Pauls Epistles 12 Commentaries on all his Epistles 13 On the Revelation 14 Physicall Workes of Compositions and their degrees His name be-speakes him happy and his worth Swels high enough to set his prayses forth In ample volumes for his soul was lin'd With true Divinity his serious mindâ— Was alwayes active labring to invest Distressed souls with true angel-like rest Let his examples teach us how to be Content in truth and love Divinity That so at last we may receive those gaiues That daily waite upon celestiall straines MATHEW PARKER The Life and Death of Mathew Parker IN the year of grace 1504. the nineteenth year of the raign of King Henry the seventh was this worthy Pralate Mathew Parker borne at Norwich on the sixt day of August His Father William Parker a Citizen of that City though of no great eminent note yet of honest repute and of a competent estate and discended from an ancient Family of that name the dignity whereof in the person of this Mathew was not revived onâ—ly but much advanced His Father being taken from him in the time of his minority he was by the carefull provision of Alicâ— Parker his mother now a widow trained up in good literature untill he attained to the age of eighâ—een yeares who then as a discreet woman and regardâ—ull of her childs good that those rudiments of learning which he had already received might not be lost but improved and further addition made thereunto procured his entrance into Corpus Christi Colledge in Cambridge about the fourteenth year of King Henry the eighth where she was resolved to make what shift she could to maintaine him untill he had attained that for which she desired to place him there to wit ability for employment in some learned function There being entered he so carried himselfe and gave so good proofes of his parts and pregnancy that within a few months he was chosen Scholler of the house having a Bible-Clearkes place conferred upon him and so his Mother eased of her charge Having after that taken his first degrees and being made Fellow of the house he began to addict himselfe mainely unto the study of Divinity and therein made good progresse Nor was he either of the number of those that will be flying out of the nest before they be well fledged and teaching of others ere they have learned ought themselves or yet of those that are wont to wrap up their talent in a towell and whelm their light under a bushell regarding more their own ease then the beneâ—it of others the end wherunto their studies should tend but after some four or five years spent in furnishing himself with 〈…〉 thâ—â—ulpit he began now to looke abroad into the neighbouâ—ing placeâ— and considering whaâ— great need the people had of instrucâ—ion in thosâ— blind anâ— darke times wherein the lights were grown dimâ— and vision was geâ—son and because so rare the more prâ—â—ious he employâ—d himselfâ— diligâ—ntly as occasion and opportunity was offrâ—d in dilivering out the Word of God unto them and that in an other manner of way then was usuall in thoâ—e dayes By meanes hereof notice taken of his diligence and dexterity therein that he might the more freely make use of of his talent without opposition or disturbance he had Authority granted him by the Kings letters patent and the Archbishops generall licence to preach where he would without controle with this power backed he lanched further out and being not as yet tyed to any speciall charge he bestowed his labors sometime in one place sometime in another that in the most eminent Cities other parts of the realm where he deemed most good might be don was not long after called to be Chaplaine in ordinery to Queen Anne thâ— pious Mother of that heroicall princesse oâ— blessed memory Qâ—eene Elizabeth by whose favor alâ—o he was made Deane of Stoke in Suffolke where he caused a schoolâ— to be erectâ—d for the education and training up of youth in good literature Aftâ—r the unfortunate deaâ—h of Queen Anne he was by the King taken into his â—ervice And having now taken the degree of Doctor in Divinity he was by his Majesties speciall letters of recommendation chosen Master of the Colledge wherein he had been both Scholler and Fellow bâ—fore the Colledgâ— not long after by unanimous consent â—eâ—ling also upon him the benefice of Landbeach in the I le of Ely not far from Cambridge The forâ— mentioned preferments he retained during the wholâ— reâ—idue of King Henries lifâ— and raigne continuing still constant in the exercise of his mâ—niâ—tery unto the happy entrance of that relious Prince and of wisedome and undâ—râ—tâ—nding above his years King Edward At which time albeit the Deanry of Stoke were dissolved Doctor â—arker much grieving for itâ— and withstanding it whaâ— he could the rather in regard of the School annexed to it and depending upon it yet had he in lieu of it a yearely pension assigned unto him out of the Kings exquecher and being by him also entertained as by his Father before him he was further advanced by him so well he esteemed of him to the Deanry of Lincolne and the prebendary of Coldingham in the same Church Thus continued he in a plentifull and worshipfull estate untill the unâ—imely death of that mirrour of Princes and the disastrons succâ—ssion of his Sister Queen Mary when true religion was suppressed superstition reâ—established and those godly Teachers that continued constant in the profession of Christs truth were deposed jected stript of their meanes and maintenance and constrained either to fly the land or lye hid unlesse they would expose themseleves to fire and fagot the best and â—east they could look for if they came into the hands of those who had never learned what mercy ment But these violent courses now taking place this reverend man among others who stuck still to the better though now weaker side was constrained to leave all and to shift for himselfe and the rather for that he had married a wife a woman of good note by whom in processe of time he had three Sons whereof two survived him as a thing though allowable not by Gods Word alone but by the
lesse as he grew great Five Kings and Queenes his dayes did see Enthron'd and septer'd The first three Did view his merit and enhaunc'd him The fourth destroy'd the fift advanc'd him To Lambeth Chayre where he the Church did guide In Peace and full of age and honor dyed The Life and Death of John Drusius who dyed Anno Christi 1616. IOhn Drusious was born at Aldenard Aâ—nn Christi 1550. was first brought up at School in the City of Gaunt and from thence went to the University of Lovain but whilst he was following his study hard there his father was prâ—scribed for Religion and thereby deprived of all his estate which caused him to flye into England taking this his son along with him when he came to London he met with Câ—valerius lately come thither that was exceeding skilfull in the Hebrew his Lectures he attended upon both in publick and private and when Cevalerius was sent to Cambrâ—ge to be the Professor there Drusius went along with him applying himselfe espcially to the study of Greek Afterwards when Cevalerius was called back into France Drusius still accompanied him fell hard to the study of the Hebrew he also privately read the same to two young English Gentlemâ—n After while he returned to London againe and when he was purposed to goe back into France he heard of that bloody Massacre at Paris which made him alter his mindâ— and having preferment prâ—fâ—â—ed to him â—ither in Oâ—ford or Cambridge he chose Oxford where for the space of four years he read Hebrew Chalde and Syriack with great commendation After which time he went back to Lâ—vain but not long enjoying peace there he returned to London againe where he continued till the peace was concluded at Gaunt and then went over into Flanders and from thence into Zealand where the States of Holland chose him to â—e the Professor in Hebrew Chalde and Syriack in the University of Leiden Anno Christi 1577. there he married a wife and the Statâ—s of Frisâ—and having newly erected a University at Franequer they called him thither In which place he continued taking great paines for the space of thirty one years and at length resiged up his spirit unto God Anno Christi 1616. and of his age 66. John Drusius was a great Ebrician sound Most meritoriouâ—ly must here by Crown'd With Bayes to 's praise whom for 's ability In Hebrew Syriack Chalde worthily The States of Holland had Professour made Of him in Leiden where not long he stay'd Being call'd to Franquer Univerâ—â—ty By th'Friâ—â—and States where with great industry For thirty years he govern'd it with fame And then deceased with an honored Name The Lif and Death of John James Grynaeus who dyed Anno Christi 1617. JOhn Iames Grynaeus was born at Berne in Helvetâ—a Anno Christi 1540. his father was a Minister who dyed of the Plague Anno Christi 1547. he was brought up at School at Basil and An. 1551. was admitted into the University the next year he fell sick of the Plague but it pleased God to restore him againe and he followed his stâ—dy hard Anno Christi 1559. he began to Preach and was ordained Deacon Anno Christi 1563. he went to Tuâ—ing and the year after was made Doctor in Divinity and the next year after he was senâ— for to succeed his father in the Pastorall charg at Raetela where besides his ordinary â—abors he read privately to the Deacons twice a week and God blessed his labors exceedingly In the year 1569. he married a wife with whom he lived contentedly fourty years and had by her seven children Aboâ—t that time the form of Concord being much pressed he â—ell hard to the studies of the Scriptures and of ancient and modern Divines whereby it pleased God that the light began to appear to him for hitherto he was a Lutheran whereupon dâ—claring his judgement about the ubiquity of Christ's body he began to be hated of manyâ— Anno Christi 1575. he wâ—s sent for to Basil to be a Professor in interpreting the Old Testament there he expounded Genesis the Psalmes and the Prophets and God so blessed his labors that he healed the difference between the Tygurine and Basilian Churches he had many Noble and Gentlemen that came out of other countries to sojourn with him After the death of Lodweck Prince Elector Palatine Prince Cassimire sent for him to Heidleberge where he read Divinity and History almost two years at the end of which time he was called back to Basil Sculcer being dead to succeed him in the Pastorall office which place he discharged faithfully the remainder of his life at last after much pains spent in the Work of the Ministery in Readings in the University and overseeing of the Schools he began to grow weak and sickly and his eie-sight waxed very dim he lost also most of his friends with his wife and children all but one daughter and his son in Law Polanus he was much tormented with the Collick yet bore all with admirable patâ—ence and in the middest of his pains he said Vt nunc triste mori est sic dulce resurgere quondam Christus ut in vita sic quoque morte lucrum est In terris labor est requies sed suavis in urna In summo venient gaudia summa die As death's sad so to rise is sweet much more Christ as in life so be in death is store On earth are troubles sweet rest in the grave I' th last day we the lasting'st joyes shall have After that he fel sick of a Feaver which almost took away his senses but he betook himselfe wholly to Prayer and tasted the joyes of heaven in his soul continually wishing that he might be dissolved and be with Christ which desire God shortly after satisfied when he had lived seventy seven years Anno Christi 1617. the Ministers of Basil carred his corps to the grave A little before his death he professed to Doctor Meier that he dyed in the same Faith that he had taught others that he had earnestly besought God to provide his people of an able and faithfull Pastor c. conculding O praeclarum illum diem cum ad illum animarum concilium coelumque proficiscar cum ex hac turba colluuione discedam O happy day when I may depart out of this troubleâ—some and sinfull World and goe to heaven to those Blessed souls before departed He used to say Pontifici Romaâ—o Erasmum plus no â—uisse â—â—â—andoâ— quam Lutherum stomachando writing to Câ—yâ—raeus he saidâ— Si non amplius in his terris te visurus sum ibi tamen convenieâ—â—â— ubi Lutheâ—o cumâ— Zuinglio optime jam convenit If we never see one another again in this Worldâ— yet we shal meet in that place where Luther Zuinglius agree very well together He used to be up at his study Winter and Summer before Sunâ—â—â—sing and spent all the day in Prayer Writing Reading and visiting the sick He
was so famous that many Princes Noblemen and young Gentlemen came from forreign Countries to see and hear him And this Grynaeus worthy was likewise That wee his Noble name should memorize Who was a rare Divine in Germany And made a Doctor in Divnity At Tubing and to Basil sent for thence To be Professour where with diligence And profitable pains and in that while The differance he did reconcile 'Twixt the Basilian Church and Tigurine At last his labour made his health decline And in his Pastorall Charge in Basil he Ended his dayes in sweet tranquility ROBERT ABBAT The Life and Death of Robert Abbot THis learned and humble man succeeded Doctor Holland in the Chaire at Oxford and herein exceeded him that although they were both of extraordinary sufficiency and vast if not immense reading yet as Augustus spake of Cassius ingeniâ—â— habet inâ—â—â—â—rato so it mâ—y be trâ—ly said of Abboâ— variam lectionem habuit in numerato he had the command of his learning and the sum of his readings upon any point which offered it selfe to his handling cast up to his hand the other had not so Whence it came to passe that the diligent hearers of the one received alwayes from him that which they expected the Auditors of the other seldome received what they expected or expected what they received from him yet alwayes went away well satisfied from his full table And I conceive the reason hereof may be this Abbot desired rather multum legere than multa Holland rather multa than multum the meditation of the one wrought upon his reading the reading of the other wrought upon his meditation and us it surcharged his memory so it over-ruled his invention also Let both have their due praises Et viridi cingantur tempora lavro For Abbot envy it selfe will afford him this testamoniall that if his tongue had been turned into the pen of a ready writer or all that hâ— wrote upon the History of Christs passion and the Prophet Esay and the Episâ—le to the Romans had seene the light he had come near unto if not over taken the three prime worthies of our Vniversity Iewel Bilson and Reynoldâ— for he gave to W m Bishop as great an overthrow as Iewell to Harding Bilson to Allen or Reynolds to Heart He was borne at Gilford in Surry of honest and industryouâ— Parents who lived fifty years together in wedlock and because they preserved that sacred bond so entire and kepâ— the marriage bed so undefiled God powred the dew of his blessing upon it and made them very happy in the fruit of their body especially in three of their children whereof the first was Bishop of Sarum the second Archbishop of Canterbury the third Lord Mayor of London In the Catalogue of all the Bishoâ—s of England onely Seffred sometimesâ— Bishop of Chichester was consecrated by his brother Archbishop of Canterbury Abbot had this happinesse and more for of two of his younger brethren one of them was advanced to the highest place in the Church and the other to the highest place in the City under his Majesty the youngest of them Maurice Abbot had the honour to be the first Knight who was dub'd by his Majesties royall sword the elder of them had yet a greater to annoynt his sacred Majesty and set the Crown upâ—n his royall head but I leave the two other to a better Herald to blazen their vertues Of this our Robert I will endeavour with my pensill to draw the lineaments whose silver pen I more highly esteeme then the silver Mace of the one or golden of the other He was not as Saint Ierome writeth of Hillarion a rose growing from a thorne but rather a province or double rose growing from a single for his Parents embraced the truth of the Gospell in King Edwards dayes and were persecuted for it in Queen Maries raigne by Dâ—ctor Story of infamous memory and notwithstanding all troubles and molestations continued constant in the profession of the truth till their death and all their children treading in their holy steps walked with a right foot to the Gospell and were zealous professors of the reformed Religion especially George and this our Robert whose zeale for the truth accompaned with indifatigable industry and choyce learning preferred him without any other friend or spokesman to all the dignities and promotions he held in the University and Church He was another Hortensius his eminent parts were seen and allowed yea and rewarded to upon the first glympse of them For upon an Oâ—ation made by him the seventeenth of November the day of Qâ—een Elizabeths inauguration he was chosen Schollar of Baliâ—l Colledge upon the first Sermon he Preached at Worster he was made Lecturer in that City and soon after Rector of All Saints there upon a Sermon Preached at Pauls Crosse Master Iohn Stannop one of his hearers having a benefice of great valew in his gift Bingham by name in Nottinghamshire tooke a resolution upon the next voydance of it to conferre it upon him and the Incombent not long after dying sent of his owne accord the Presentation to him upon a Sermon Preached before his Majesty King Iames in the month he waited at Court In the year 1612. newes being brought of Doctor Hollands death the King most gratiously nominated him his successour and lastly upon the â—ame of his incomparable Lectures read in the University de suprema potestate regia contra Bellarminum Suaâ—ezium and the perusall of his Antilogia adversus apolâ—giam Garnetti the See of Sarum falling voyd his Majesty sent his Congedelire for him to the Deane and Chapter Thus as he set forward one foot in the temple of vertue his other still advanced in the temple of honour A curious English Poet making use rather of licencea poetiâ—a than libertas grammatica deriveth Robertus our Divines Christan name from three Monesillibles ros ver â—hus though this etimoligy be affected and constrained yet I will make use of it to branch the History of his life into three parts and first I will consider him as he was ros in his Countries cure secondly as he was ver in his University preferment thirdly as he was thus in his episcopall See First I will speake of him as he was ros Ros signifieth dew which name very fitly agreed unto him whilst for twenty years he lived obscurely in the Country for as dew doth much good to the place where it fals and yet makes no noyse so his paines were very profitable in his private Cures yet was not his fame cryed up nor made any noise in the world secondly as dew dropping on mowen grasse refresheth it and maketh it spring anew so his labors in his Pastorall charge much refreshed the consciences of true converts which had felt the cythe of Gods judgements and made them spring up in hope and newnesse of life thirdly as dew distilling in silver drops mollifieth the parched ground so his heart melting into teares in many
University according to the second Ver. Now let us scent him as Franckincense sending â—orth a most fragrant smell in his Diocesse according to the last monosyllable Thus. Franckincense thought it be often used in private houses where the roomes are dankish yet it is most proper for the Church and of all Churches for the Cathedrals where is the greatest concourse of people and the service performed with most solemnity here therefore consecrated as it were in a golden censer he burnt most fragrantly in his meditations ejaculâ—tions Sermons and exhortations breathing out odorem vitae ad vitam through all the Bishoprick of Sarum Other Bishopricks were voyced upon him as of Lincoln and Coventrie and Litchfield but the businesse of the nullity made a nullity for a time in his Graces good intentions and our Bishops hopes in so much that King Iames of blessed memory when Doctor Abbot newly consecrated Bishop of Sarum came to doe his homage his Majesty spake pleasantly unto him after this manner Abbot I have had very much to do to make thee a Bishop but I know no reason for iâ— unlesse it were because thou writest against viz. William Bishop a Popish priest whose refutation of Master Perkins his reformed Catholicke this our Abbot had not long before solidly refuted After his câ—nsecration at Lambeth and his homage done at Court he tooke the University in his way to Sarum and there taking his leave of his Mother he was accompanyed with all his brethren the heads of Colledges and Hals and of other his Oxford friends of good ranke and quality till about the edge of his Diocesse they left him with teares in their eyes erumpentibus prae dolore the Clergy Gentry of Sarum met him with teares also in their eyes of another kind emanantibus prae gaudio as he came into the City he was entertained with eloquent speeches which he answered â—xtempore in the same language they were made unto him and with worthy presence which were thankefully accepted and the next Lords day following he offered his first fruits in the Tâ—mple taking for his text the Word of the Psalmest 26.8 Lord I have loved the habitation of thy house and the place where thine honour dwelleth After he had verified the Words of his Text in the person of David his Sermon ended he verified it in himselfe and made a Dâ—monstration that he loved that house of God not in â—ongue onely and in word but in deed and veriâ—y for viewing exactly that beautifull Fabrick and finding it very much in decay partly through the negligence of his Predecessors and partly through the Covetousnessâ— of the Deane and Prebends who filled their purses with that which should have stop'd the chiâ—ks in the Wals he sent a peremptory summons for all the Prebends and partly by a seasonable admonition partly by increpations and threatnings partly by reviving an old Statue de quinta parte Prebendaâ—um he drew from them 500. l. which was all spent in the reparation of that Church And aâ—ter the repairing of the materiall temple he wholly laboured in repairing of the spirituall temple both by doctrine and by discipline visiting his whole Diocesse in his owne person and Preaching every Lords day whilst he enjoyed his health either in the City or in the neighbour Townes the last text he handled was Iohn 14. ver 16. I will pray the father and he shall give you another comforter that he may abide with you for ever upon the first proposall whereof as many of his hearers presaged his departure from them so indeed proved it his last and Far-well Sermon for soone after he came out of the Pulpit he fell into grievous â—its of the stone which first stoped the passages of nature and within a few dayes shut up all the offices of his senses so was his hourâ—glasse contrary to all other the sooner run by being stopâ— with sand or gravell for by his perpetuall sedentary life such a stone was bred in his kidnies as no strength of nature or skill of Art could remove but there still remaining put his patience to the tâ—st and by extremity of paine and torment in a short space took away all sense of paine and life together whilest he lay thus as it were upon the racke in unsufferable torâ—ure of body his soul was at great rest and ease for the assurance of heavenly things caused him most chearfully to part wiâ—h earthly the quick sense he had of the powers of the life â—o come deaded the sense of his bodily paines Many yet living are much revived to recollect those his last admonitions and godly exhortations those I say who came to viâ—it him upon his death bed who were not a few and among others the Judges being then at Sarum in their Circuit To them he communicated out of his rich treasury of learning and devotion most Christian and grave advice and amongst many points he discoursed on before them he insisted very much upon the benefit of a good conscience rendring many thanks to his Creator for the great comfort he felt thereby now in his extremity and admonished all that heard him so to carry themselves in their most private and secret actions as well as in their publick that â—hey might obtain that at the last which would stand them in more stead then what all the World could afford besides wâ—â—h these his godly admonitions and exhortations and Episcopall benediction and prayers together with the paine of his diseasâ— being quite â—pent he lay as it were â—lumbering with now and theâ— a short ejaculation lifting up his eyes and his hands towards heavâ—n for the space of two or three houres and at the length March 2. 1617 between the houres of seven and eight gave up the ghost with these words come Lord Iesu come quickely finish in me the worke that thou hast begun in manus tuas domine commendo spiritum meum quia tu redemisti me deus veritatis salvum fac servum tuum qui in te solummodo sperat confidit fiat misericordia tua domine super me in te domine speravi non confundar in aeternum The Thursday following his Funerall was solemnized in the Cathedrall Church over against the Bishops seat where he was buried not so much in earth as in water I meane the teares of the Clergy and all the inhabitants of Sarum which they shed in great abundance for his losse as they had great reason For whereas there are three vertuâ—s which most endeere a good Bishop to his Diocesse diligence in his Pastorall charge Bountifull Hospitality and a lovely and lowly carriage even towards hiâ— inferiors in all these three Abbot excelled first for his humility all they that knew him either under haâ—ches or upon the deck or sâ—â—ting at the sterne of the Church found no difference in him he was the same man in his private Cures and in his doctorall Chayre and in his Episcopall seate As a
dayes they had no Preaching in the morning concerning which meetings himselfe writes That it would have don a Christians heart good to have seen those glorious and joyfull Assemblies to have heard the zealous cryings to God amongst that people with sighings and tears and melting hearts and mourning eyes and concerning himselfe he saith My witnesse is in heaven that the love of Iesus and his people made continuall Preaching my pleasure and I had no such joy as in doing his worke and besides that he preached five times a week he penned also whatsoever he preached many of which holy and godly Sermons are extant in print All â—he time of his aboad there except some little intermissions and breathing times the Lord still exercised him with inward tentations and great variety of spirituall combats the end of all which thâ—ough God's mercy was joy unspeakable as himselfe testifie's Yea once saith he in greatest extremity of horror and anguish of spirit when I had utterly given over and looked for nothing but confusion suddenly there did shine in the very twinkeling of an eye the bright and lightsome countenance of God proclaming peace and confirming it with inviâ—cible reasons O what a change was there in a moment the silly soul that was even now at the brinke of the pit looking for nothing but to be swallowed up was instantly raised up to heaven to have fellowship with God in Christ Iesus and from this day forward my soul was never troubled with such extremity of terrors this confirmation was given unto mee on a Saturday in the morning there found I the power of Religion the certainty of the Word there was I touched with such a lively sence of a Divinity and power of a God-head in mercy reconciled with man and with mee in Christ as I trust my soul shall never forget Glory glory glory be to the joyfull deliverer of my soul out of all adversities for ever In the middest of these wrestlings with God he wanted not combats with wicked men also but the greatnesse of his inward conflicts made him lightly regard all their outward contradictions and to esteem them but as the bitings of a Flea It was no marvell to see Satan stir up his wicked instruments to molest him since he professed himselfe a disquieter of him and his Kingdome and this much supported him that he never had a controversie with any of them but for their sins and the Lord assisting him the power of the Word did so hammer downe their pride that they were all of them at last brought to an acknowledgement of their evill wayes But at length as God turned the heart of Pharaoh and his people the Israelites when the time drew on fâ—r their remove so by little and litle did the zeal and love of most of that people fall away so that his last conflict was not with the prophane but with Justiciaries such as were unrebukeable in their lives These men were stuffed with such pride self-conceit disdain and intolerable contempt that thereby they were carried further from their duty thâ—n any of the former and which should have been his greatest comfort were his greatest crosse Presently hereupon God called him to the Government of the Churches in Galloway in the South-West parts of the Kingdome being chosen by the Assembly and presented by the King thereunto this was effected with out his privity or ambitious seeking after it yea he was so far from it that eightteen weeks passed betwixt the Kings Presentation and the Acceptation of it In that place he was very carefull to advance the Gospel to adorne his Ministery concerning the frame of his Spirit thus he writs My soul is alway in my hand ready to be offered to my God Where or what kinde of death God hath prepared for mee I know not But sure I am there can no evill death befall him that lives in Christ nor sudden death to a Christian Pilgrim who with Job waites every day for his change yea saith he many a day have I sought it with tears not out of impatience distrust or perâ—urbation but because I am weary of sin and fearfull to fall into it This faithfull servant of God who had alwayes beene faithfull and painfull in his Ministery when sicknesse grew daily upon him was no way deficient in the duty of his ordinary Preaching taking great pains also to perfect his worke upon the Revelations which he desired greatly to finish before his death he had also much griefe by reason of some that disturb'd the peace of the Church which he always sought to procure so that his infirmity encreasing he was compelled to keep home yet as his weaknesse permitted he applyed himselfe to revise his writings and to dispose of his worldly estate that he might be ready for his passage which every day he expected and some ten dayes before his decease he manifested to his friends what great contentment hâ— hâ—d in his approaching death Many repaired to him in his sicknesse whom he entâ—rtained with most holy and divine conferences expressing a great willingnesse to exchange this life for a better and at last feeling his strength and spirits to decay after he had conceived a most heavenly prayer in the company of those that were by he desired to goe to bed in which also after he had most devoutly commended himselfe unto the Almighty God he took some quiet rest After which he spake not many words his speech failing though his memory and understanding were perfect and so about seven a clock at night he rendered his soul unto God in a most quiet and peaceable manner Anno Christi 1619. Some of his private Meditations were these Now my soul be glad for at all parts of this prison the Lord hath set to his Piâ—ners to loose thee Head Feet Milt and Liver are fast failing yea the middle strength of the whole body the stomack is weakened long ago Arise make ready shake off thy fetters mount up from the body and go thy way I saw not my children when they were in the womb yet there the Lord fed them without my knowledge I shall not see them when I goe out of the body yet shall they not want a Father Death is somewhat driery and the streams of that Jordan between us and our Canaan run furiously but they stand still when the Ark comâ—s Let your Anchor be cast within the vail and fastened on the Rock Iesus Let the end of the threefold cord be buckled to the heart so shall yee go thorow Soli Deo Gloria Here also Cowper Scotlands Prelate grave A place of honour doth deserve to have Among these Honour'd Heroes whom the Lord Did many exc'llent Ornaments afford In piety and parts but specially Making him prosperous in the Ministry By 's constant and by 's consciencious Preaching And holy life which was a second teaching Famous for 's writings on the Revelation Piously thus persisting to 's tranatsâ—ion The Life
and Death of John Piscator who dyed Anno Christi 1625. JOhn Piscator was born at Argentine Anno Christi 1546. at which time Germany was on fire with civill Wars Yet that hindred not but he followed his studyes very hard and profited exceedingly in learning when he came to the study of Logick with great felicity he joyned Ramus and Aristotle together And afterwards having made a good progresse in the study of Divinity he was called to Herborn to be the Professor there and his labors were so gratefull to young Students that many flocked thither out of Germany France Hungary Poland and other Nothern Countries He wrote many things with great diligence and labor scarce affording any rest to himselfe He translâ—ted the whole Bible with great pains and faithfulnesse into the German Tongue besides his Logicall and Theologicall Analisis of the greatest part of it He dyed at Herborn Anno Christi 1625. and of his age 80. This Jâ—hn Piscator born at Argentine For his rare parts in Arts did fairly shine Iâ— Heâ—bâ—rn where Professor he became And exercis'd that place with so much fame That many Students out of Germany Fâ—â—nce Poland and from out of Hungary Came flocking thither for his grave direction Which he afforded them with sweet affection I' th Germane toâ—gue the Bible he translated And it with learn'd Analisis ornated And thus his dayes in pious pains being spent At fourscore years his soule to heaven he sent ANDREW WILLET The Life and Death oâ— Andrew Willet IT is not long since a large Relation was published a Ann. 1634 prefixed before the fift edition of his Synopsi Papi and written by the same hand with this of the life and death of that faithfull servant of Christ Dr. Andrew Willet yet least omitted in this honorable Catalogue he should lose his b Augu. Cenâ— lib. 10. câ— â—7 right of association in renowne and glory with these his Fellow-labourers in the service of the Gospell I though good not onely to abridge part of that former discours which alone were but c Syne episâ— 141. to bring forth the same birth againe but to d Id. ep 99. adde some remarkeable things then unremembered or undiscovered being such as may conduce both to the advancement of his memory e Terent. in Adelph and the encouragement of our imitation who often follow patterns more then precepts f Lips de Consâ— l. 2. c. 4. This learned prudent and pious man was born of worthy and religious Parents by whom he enjoyed that g Eâ—rip Cyâ—pr Epist. libâ— 4. Ep. 5. choyce blessing and happinesse of ingenuous godly education and example His Father Mr. Thomas Willet was in his yonger time Subalmoner unto King Edward the sixt while Doctor Coxe was chiefe Almoner and Schoolmaster to that royall Prince who was presented of God unto this Iland only ut spectaculi spiraculi res to use Tertullian's words a faire-flourishing and sweet-smelling flower soon withered and taken away The sad times of persecution under Queene Mary then succeeding King Edwards Almoner and Subalmoner with many more were not onely forced from Court but th' one from his Country the other from his comfort of his wife and family for the safety of their lives and consciences till that cloud was blowne over and Queene Mary dead Then roâ—e Englands Deborâ—h that mirrour of her sex and miracle of the World Queen Elizabeth Exiles returned home amongst them Doctor Coxe who was advanced to the Bishoprick of Ely and soon after preferred his old Chaplaine Master Willet this Doctors Father to a Prebend in that Church and to the Parsonage of Barley in Hertfordshire both which in his old age he resigned unto this his Son who lived and dyed in them h Ambros. li. 1. de Abrah cap. 8. never having ambitiously hunted after higher promotions i Aâ—ad Frans sâ—â—lour ch 21 which he rather studied to deserve then to obtaine observing how in ordinary courses some k Lips enjoy prefermentâ— others merit them yet he went on so cheerfully in his praise-worthy labours as if his pains had been his payment according to that reason given by some why they that bore the heat and burthen of the day had put equall pay with him that came at the last hour into the Vinyard Matth. 20.12 l Canâ— Mos 〈◊〉 3. epist. 4. Because say they their worke is reckoned into their wages it being no little honour to be so imployed of God This Doctor was both born and bred in the Towne or City of Ely lying within the Fens of Cambridgeshire a soyle not unlike the place of Augustines birth if we beleeve m In Aug. de Civit. Deâ— lib. 16. cap. â— Lud. Vives and others wherupon Erasmus n Praef. ad lib. Epi. D. Augu takes occasion to divine that had that Father been born and lived in Italy or France his wit though uncomparable had been much more refined and the fruits thereof much more abundant And Apollonius Tyaneus o Apâ—l Philostrat in vit A.T. li. 6. c. 6. ascribes the subtile inventions of the Indians unto the purer beames or cleerer ayre wherein they live Whereas the auncient heathen gave the attribute of 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 unto their choysest wits as if they were men fallen from heaven as they said of p Antip. apud Pâ—uâ— in vit Hoâ— Homer q Tertius â— coelo cecidiâ— Cato Iuven Cato and the like And as Homer said of Aegypt so may we say of every Country r Sophoc l. in Ajac. There 's many good and bad things mixt together Neâ— refert quâ terrâ natus qui renatus it matters not where he was borne that 's new born For that which is of the earth is earthly Joh. 3.31 But every good giving every perfect gift is from above Iam. 1.17 which even the heathen Poet acknowledgeth speaking thus These and all gifts of the mind God I say workes in mankind From the Grammer Schoole in Ely where by reason of his industry unusuall in such years denying himselfe even s Iulian in Caesar. necessary recreation he had given many t Lips de Constat lib. 2. c. 5. Hom. rudiments of future hopes he was at thirteen years of age or thereabout sent to the University of Cambridge He was first admitted into Peter-house where he was well grounded and afterward removed to Christ's Colledge where he was preferred to a Fellowship every where he found Learnings doores open to him Being but nineteen years of age he under-tooke the defence of his Master Aristotle in a Latine Tractate against Tempell a lover of Peter Ramus whereof as I have heard divers Copyes were dispersed one of which not long since I saw with an Epistle deditatory to a Pralaâ—e of that age as if he had intended it for the presse But his first booke which came forth in print was that De animâ— natuâ—a viribus written by him at
not his actions did The world was least his care he sought for heaven And what he had he held not earnd but given The dearest wealth he own'd the worlâ— near gave Nor owes her ought but houseâ—rent for a grave The Lif and Death of David Pareus who dyed Anno Christi 1622. DAvid Pareus was born in Silesia Anno Christi 1548. His Parents were Citizens of good rank when he was about three years old he fell sick of the small pox whereof he was like to dye and though it pleased God that he recovered yet he had thereby a blemish in one of his eyes which continued so long as he lived about that time his Mother dyed when he grew up to riper years his Father perceiving a naturall promptnesse in him to learning set him to School in his owne City where one of his Mâ—sters was very rigid and severe in his carriage unto him and there he learned Grammer Musick and Arithmetick But when he was fourteen years old by the instigation of his step-mother his father placed him with an Apothecary at â—raâ—islavia which course of life he could not well relish and therefore after a months stay he returned home again which his step mother wâ—s much offended with yet his tender father resolved to keep him at School and â—hen he disliked the severity of his former Master he sent him to Hirschberg to one Christopher Schillingus who was much affected with his ingenuity and towardlinesse the chiefe Magistrate also of that City took a great liking to him for som Verses which he made at his sons Funerall so that he gave him his dyet in his Family when he had been there about two years the Pastor of that place who was a Lutheran fell out with his Schoolmaster for that in Catechising of his Schollars he had taught them that Christs body being ascended into heaven was there to remaine till his coming to judgement and that in the Sacrament we feed upon it onely spiritually by faith c. And his spleen was so great that he would not be satisfied till he had driven him away from the City Pareus having to hiâ— great griefe lost his Master returned home yet neither there was he in quiet some tale-bearers suggesting to his Father that his Schoolmaster had infected him with his errors and so far they prevailed that his father intended to disinherit him hereupon Pareus intended to goe into the Palatinate which his father much disliked and sought by all meanes to hinder yet at last through Gods mercy by importunity he gat his fathers consent who sent him away with little mony in his purse Thus forsaking his friends and fathers house he went to Hirschberge where he met with his Master and some of his School-fellowes and so they travelled together towards the Palatinate through Bohemia by the way his mony failing â—e went to a Monastery to beg an Alms and the Abbat pittying of him relieved him going from thence to another Monastery he met with an ignorant Fryar and asked an Alms of him in Latine he returned this answer Nos pauperi fratres nos nihil habemus an piscimus an caro an panis an misericordia habemus Thus at length it pleased God to bring him safely to Amberg in the upper Palatinate there his Schoolmaster stayed and sent Pareus with ten more of his Schollars to Heidelberg where they were admitted into the Colledge of Sapience there he was a diligent hearer of Vrsin Boquin Tremelius Zanchy and the other Professors under whom he profited both in the Arts and Tongues to admiration Then he betook himselfe to the study of Divinity and having fitted himselfe for the worke of the Ministery he was chosen by the Elector to Preach in a Village within his jurisdiction which he was then about to reforme not long after he was called back to Heidleberg and made a Publick Lecturer where he continued till the death of Frederick the third and then by the Heterodox party he with the other Professors was driven from thence but most of them were entertained by Prince Casimire who erected a University an Newstade appointing Vrsin Zanchâ— Iunius Piscator and others to be the Professors in it he appointed also a Synod therein to coÌ„sider how to provide for the other exiles Tossan was chosen Moderator Pareus the Scribe of it in that Synod Pareus gat â—eave to goe visit his Country and friends and so in three weeks space came safely to them where he was received with much joy and at the request of the Senate he Preached the Sabbath following upon Iohn 3.16 And that with great applause and generall approbation his father also was so well pleased with him that presently after Sermon he cancelled the writing whereby he had diâ—inherited him the Senate also dâ—sired him to undertake a Pastorall charge in that place but he chose rather to return into the Palatinate againâ—â— coming to Newstad he was appointed to Preach in a Village hard by where he continued till Prince Casimire as Gâ—ardian to the young Prince Elector Palatine sent for him to be a Preacher in the great Church in Hiedleberge and not long after he was made Master of the Colledge of Sapience in that University Anno Christi 1587. according to the Statutes of the Colledge he Commenced Master of Arts and afterwards by the perswasion of his friends Doctor of Divinity also In the year 1594. at a Convention of States at Raâ—isbone the Divines of the Palatinate were accused by the Lutherans as holding opinions neither consonate to the Scriptures Augustines Confession nor to their owne Catechisme but Pareus at the appointment of the Palatine easily wiped of those aspersions and vindicating the innocency of them Anno Christi 1596. there brake forth a great Plague in the University of Heidleberg whereof the learned Iames Kimedontiâ—s Pareus his intimate friend dyed somâ— other Professors also and the Students by reason of it were driven away yet Pareus stayed it pleased God to preserve his Colledge free from the infection not long after he was chosen Professor of the Old Testament in the room of Kimedontius and presently after Rector of the whole University Aâ—no Christi 1596. he was extreamely troubled with a Catarrh insomuch as he dispaired of life yet it pleased God after a while to restore him Anno Christi 1602. upon the death of Daniel Tossan he was made Professor of the New Testament and grew so famous that many resorted out of Hungary Borusia France England Scotland Ireland and Germany to see and hear him In the year 1615. his wife sickened and dyed which was a great griefe to him Anno Christi 1618. the Low-Countries being exceedingly indangered by the growth of Arminianism the States appointed a Synod at Dort for the curing of that diâ—ease and amongst other famous Divines Pareus was chosen by the Elector Palatine to goe to it but he being grown very old and infirm desired to be excused and so Paul
Tossan was sent in his room February the second Anno Christi 1620. as Pareus was coming out of his study the steps being slippery with the frost his foot slipt and he fell down sixteen steps and yet it pleased God by a wonderfull Providence that he light upon his feet and received no hurt by the fall which made him think of that promise Psalme 91. Hee will give his Angels charge over thee c. By his Doctrine and Councell he was admirably advantageous to the Church of God in many places He strongly asserted the truth of God against it's adversaries He was a great studyer and promoter of the Churches peace laboring that they which agree in the Fundamentals should not jar about matters of an inferior nature He wrote many â—xcellent Works whereof some were printed by himselfe others remained with his son Philip Pareus who hath since published them to the great benefit of the Church About that time the Spaniapds came into the Palatinate with their Army which brought great miseries upon that poor Country which Pareus fore-saw both by Prodigies and Dreames then did his friends both in Hiedleberge and other places pâ—rswaded him to retire himselfe to some other place of safety to whom he yeelded that so he might not fall into the hands of those bloody Papists whom he had irritated by his writings against them At his departure he cryed out O Hiedleberg O Hiedleberge but it 's better to fall into the hands of God then of man whose tender mercies are cruelty He went to Anvilla where he spent his time in Prayer Study and in Miditation waiting and longing for the time of his chang there also he wrote his Corpus Doctrinae which when he had finished he said Lord now let thy servant depart in peace because he hath finished that which he desired Presently after he felt his strength much to decay and he fell into a feaver and finding that the ayre in that place agreed not with him he went thence to Neapolis earnestly begging of God that if it were his holy will he might yet return to Hiedleberg and lay his bones there He made his will also finding his former Catarrh to return upon him againe yet it pleased God by the help of Phisitians to recover him whereupon he resolved to goe to Hiedleberge and taking his Grand-son young Daniel Pareus with him whom he loved deerly he came safely to Hiedleberge where he was received with wonderfull acclamations of joy about which time Prince Frederick came also thither from his Exile and the Sabbath following they received the Sacrament of the Lords-Supper together with much comfort But three dayes after his former disease returning he was sensible of his approaching death the Professors and Ministers resorted to him much bewailing their owne losse amongst whom was Henry Altingus to whom he freely opened his minde both concerning God house and his owne and presently after quietly departed in the Lord Anno Christi 1622. and of his age 73. Pareus also of high Germany A wreath of Bayes deserves most worthily A very learned godly grave Divine Whose precious labors made his fame to shine Chiefly those on the Romans And although At first he many straits did undergoe Both by his Father and his other friends Yet God who in deep straits assistance sends Made all for his best good t'operate And by them brought him to a blest estate For he became abroad at home renown'd And was with many honours justly crown'd Especially at Hiedleberge where hee From all earths feares was happily set free The Life and Death of Thomas Erpenius who dyed Anno Christi 1624. THomas Erpenius was borne at Gorcome in the Low-Countries Anno Christi 1584. of honest Parents In his childhood he was bred in the School at Leiden and admitted into that University at eighteen years old and in the twenty fifth year of his age he commenced Master of Arts then he fell to the study of Divinity and of the Orientall Languages under Ioseph Scaliger who observing his ingenuity and promptnesse often foretold what an eminent man he would prove in time to come From thence he travelled in England France Italy and Germany in which perâ—grinations he profited exceedingly both in learning and prudence At Paris he became intimately acquainted with Isaac Casaubone and went with him to Samure where he fell hard to the study of Arabick and profited so exceedingly therein that Casaubone had him in great admiration and estimation for the same From thence he went to Venice where by the help of some learned Jews and Turks he learned the Turkish Persian and Aethiopick Ianguages whereby he gat so great esteem in Italy that he was profered a Pension of five hundred Duckats by the year to imploy himself in the version of some Arabick books into Latine He spent four years in travell and was famous every where for his learning at Paris and some other places he bought many Arabick books so returned to Leiden An. Ch. 1612. About which time there was a purpose to have called him into England to have allowed him an honorable stipend but the year after he was chosen Professor of the Orientall languages in Leiden and presently after he set up though with extraordinary charges a Presse for those Languages whereby he published many ancient monuments both of his own other mensâ— 1616. he married a wife by whom he left three children surviving him An. Christi 1619. he was made Professor of the Hebrew also and though he had so many and great imployments yet he went through each of them with so great exactnesse as if he had nothing else to attend upon In the year 1620. he was sent by the Prince of Orang and the States of Holland into France to procure Peter Moulin or Andrew Rivet to come to Leiden to be the Divinity Professor and though he prevailed not at that journey yet they sent him againe the year after to Andrew Rivet and the French-Church to obtain of them their consents for his coming which businesse he transacted with so great prudence that he brought Andrew Rivet along with him to Leiden His fame was so great that the King of Spaine wrote to him making him exceeding great promises if he would come into Spain to interpret some ancient writings which never man yet could doe The King of Morocco also did so exceedingly admire the purity of his Arabick style in some of his Epistles that he shewed them to his Nobles and other learned men as some great Miracle He was also highly esteemed of by the Prince of Orang and the States of Holland who often made use of his labours in translating the letters which they received from Princes in Asia and Africa out of Arabick or other Languages But whilst he was thus busily imployed in Publick and private it pleased God that he fâ—ll sick of the Plague whâ—reof he dyed Anno Christi 1624. and of his age forty
Here may we not without much wrong deny To this Erpenius honoured memory Who was most famous in his generation A man of exc'llent parts to admiration And in the Orientall tongues so rare That few or none with him deserv'd compare For th'Arabick and Hebrew tongues likewise The Kings of France and Spain did him so prize Yea England Holland Germany Italy Proffer'd great summes t' enjoy his company And rare eudowments deep experience At forty years of age death took him hence The Life and Death of Abraham Scultetuâ— who dyed Anno Christi 1624. ABraham Scultetus was born at Grunberge in Silesia Anno Christi 1566. his Parents were of good rank who carefully brought him up at School where he profited exceedingly and Anno Christi 1582. he went to Vraâ—islavia where he for had his fellow-students Pitiscus Polanus Pelargus men who after proved eminent in the Church of God Having studyed there sometime he went thence to Freistade to hear Melancthon Bucolzer and some others But his active spirit could not long be continued within the bounds of his owne Couny and therefore being assisted by the bounty of a Noble Knight he went to Wittenberg and from thence to Dessavia to acquaint himselfe with Peter Martyr and Casper Pucer Anno Christi 1590. he went to Hiedleberg where he heard Daniel Tossan and Francis Iunius there also he read Lectures of Logick Oratory and Astronomy to diverse young Noblemen and the year after Commenced Master of Arts then he betook himselfe to the study of Divinity thereby to fit himselfe for the Ministery which from his childhood he had devoted himselfe to and Preaching before the Elector Palatinâ— he so flowed with elâ—quencâ— and 〈◊〉 that the Prince and all his Courtiers were 〈◊〉 delightâ—d in himâ— which caused the Elâ—â—toâ— to mâ—kâ— hiâ— visitor both of the Schoolâ—â—nd Churches Yea many other Princes made use of his help in reforming their Churches in Iuliâ—rs Brandenburg and Hanovia he was also sent to the Synod of Dort Anno Christi 1612. the Prince Elector Palatine took him into England with him where he was much esteemed respected by King Iames and other learned men at his returne to Hiedleberg he was made Professor in the University and Doctor in Divinity Anno Christi 1618. But about that time grievous Wars breaking forth the miseries whereof were dispersed afterwards oveâ— all 〈…〉 Hiedleberg and travelled 〈…〉 met with many affliction◠〈…〉 long tossed up and down in 〈…〉 the Lord at last provided him a quiet 〈…〉 â—here he was choâ—sen a Preacher 〈…〉 orn out wiâ—h travels 〈…〉 Ministery he quietly 〈…〉 1624. and of his age 58. What admiâ—able endowments he had his Works do sufficiently declare especially his Medulla Patrum which is so much esteemâ—d by learned men Most worthy also is Scultetus grave The Palme and prize of praise and fame to have Wâ—â—â—â—r â—is 〈◊〉 wit â—nd worthâ— His learned labours rare in print put forth Chiefly Medulla Patrum that choyce piece Preferred far to Jasons golden fleece By all the learned Had in high request For 's eloquence and diligence exprest By our King Jamâ—s and other Princes great Who with most high applause obtain'd the seat In Hiedlebergâ— brâ—ve University Of the Professour there and worthily Made Doctor of Divinity At last Having much trouble with his comforts past At Embdâ—n God him gave a quiet Statioâ— And there by death crown'd him with heav'ns salvation Robert Bolton Batchelour in diuinity minister of Gods word att Broughton in Northamton shire The Life and Death of Robert Bolton RObert Bolton was born at Blackborn in Lancashire Anno Christi 1572. his Parents finding in him a great promptnesse to learning though they had no great means yet they intended him for a Scholar the rather having an opportunity of a good Schoolmaster in the town where he profited exceedingly and at twenty years old he went to Lincoln Colledge in Oxford and was Master Randaâ—'s Pupil afterwards a famous Preacher there in a short time being well grounded before and industrious he beâ—ame an excellent Logician and Phylosopher at which time his father dying and his meanes failing he took excessive pains and wanting books he borrowed of his Tutor and others read them over and abridged them and to perfect his knowledge in the Greek he wrote out all Homer with intolerable pains so that he could with as much facility dispute in the Schools in Greek as in Latine or English From thence he removed to Brasen-nose Colledge the Fellowships there belonged to Lancashire and Cheshire men yet for want of acquaintance he stayed long without a Fellowship which made him to languish through want but his deserts being known Doctor Bret and some others together with some small stipends he had for his Lectures in that House supported him till he gat a Fellowship about the thirtieth year of his Age then also he Commenced M r. of Arts and being chosen Lecturer he performed it with such exactness that he grew very famous his Disputations in the University were performed with such acutenesse of wit and profound learning that he was chosen by the Vice chancellor at King Iames his first coming to the University to be one of the Disputants before him and to read naturall Phyloâ—sophy in the Publick Sâ—hools he was also well studyed in Metaphysicks Mathamaticks and Schoolâ—Divinity yet all this while he had nothing in him for Religion he loved Stage-playes Cards Dice was a horrible swearer Sabbathâ—breaker and boon-companion he neither loved goodnesse nor good men He hearing the fame of Master Perkins went to Cambridge at a Commencement that he might hear him Preach and hâ—ving heard him said That he was a barren empty fellow and a passing meane Scholar but when God changed his heart he changed his tune and said That Master Perkins was aâ— learned and godly a Divine aâ— our Church hath in many years enjoyed in so young a man He had familiar acquaintance with one Master Anderton a good scholer his Country man and formerly his Schoolfellow but a strong Papist yea a Priest he knowing Master Boulton's good parts and oâ—tward wants took that advantage to perswadeâ— him to go over with him to the English Seminary at Rome where he should be furnished with all necessaries and have gold enough this motion he excepted of and a day and place was appointed in Lanâ—ashire to take shipping from thence and be gone Thither Master Bolton repaired at the time prefixed but Anderton came not whereby escaping that snare he returned to Oxford where he fell into acquaintance with Master Peacock a learned and godly man whereby it pleased God to bring him to repentance but by â—uch a way as the Lord seldome useth but upon such strong vessels as he intendeth for strong encounters and rare employments for the Lord ran upon him as a Giant taking him by the neck and shaking him to pâ—eces as he did Iob beating him to the ground as he did Paul by laying before
the greatest I feel is your cold hand and then being layed downe againe no long after he yeelded up his spirit unto God Anno Christi 1631. and of his age sixty He was one of a thousand for Piety and Courage which were so excellently mixed with wisdome that they who imagined mischiefe against his Ministry were never able by all their plottings to doe him any more hurt then onely to shew their teeth Laus Deo Of all the worthyes that deserv'd so well And did in parts and piety excell And Garlands therefore of just honour have None more did merit then this Past or grave Renowned Robert Bolton one well known For his divine rare parts second to None Who though in 's youth he seem'd a wicked Saul In 's riper years he prov'd a precious Paul A most renowed preaching Son of thunder Yet a sweet Barnabas even to deep wonder To sons of sorrow and for Gods blest cause Invincible in courage and from pawes Of Sathans power who pull'd afflicted spirits By comforts sweet herein being of high merits And as for 's preaching so for 's writings rare Extant in print even almost past compare One of ten thousand for his piety Constancy wisdome learning gravity Who as he liv'd belov'd so blestly dy'd And now his Sainted soul in heaven doth bide The Life and Death of William Whately who dyed Anno Christi 1639. WIlliam Whately was born in Banbury in Oxfordshire An. Christi 1583. of godly and religious Parents his father was oft Mayor of that Towne his mother carefully bred him up in the knowledge of the Scriptures from a child he was also trained up in learning in the best Schools in those parts and being of a quick apprehention a cleare judgement and a most happy memory he profited so much both in Latine Greek and Hebrew that at fourteen years old he went to Christs Colledge in Cambridge There he was an hard Student and qucikly became a good Logician and Phylosopher a strong Disputant and an excellent Orator He studyed also Poetry and Mathematicks He was a constant hearer of Doctor Chaderton and M r. Perkins And his Tutor calling his Pupils to an â—ccount what they had learned when any was at a stand he would say Whately what say you and he would repeat as readily as if had preached the Sermon himselfe being Batchelor of Arts his Father took him home yet there also he followed his study Afterwards he married a wife the Daughter of Master George Hunt an eminent Preacher who perswaded him to enter into the Minisâ—ery and therefore going to Oxford he commensed Master of Arts and presently after was called to be a Lecturer at Banbury w ch he performed with good approbation for four years and then was called to the Pastorall chargâ— there in which place he continued to his death He was naturally eloquent and had words at willâ— he was of an able body and â—ound lungs and of a strong and audible voyce He was a Bâ—nerges a son of Thunder and yet upon occasion a Barnabas a son of sweet Consolation His speech and preaching was not in the inticing words of man's wisdome but in the Demonstation of the Spirit of Power He was an Apolloâ— eloquent and mighty in the Scriptures he Catechized and Preached twice every Lords day and a weekly Lecture besides yet what he Preached was before well studyed and premeditated He usuall penned his Sermons at large and if he had but so much time as to read over what he had written and to gather it up into short heads he was able to deliver it well-near in the same words His Preaching was plain yet very much according to Scripture and the rules of Art He made good use of his Learning yet without affectation He used to read Books most swiftly yet not cursorily being able when he had don to give an account of the substance and most remarkable passages of what he had read And it pleased Gâ—d to put a Seal to his Minisâ—â—y in the câ—nverting confirming and building up many thousands in the course of his Ministery He was a diligent visitor of the â—ick under his charge without respâ—ct of peâ—sons he was a great Pâ—ace maker amoâ—gst any of hiâ— Flâ—â—k that were at variance he had an heavenly gift in prayer both for aptnâ—sse and fulnesse of Confessions Petitions Supplycations Intercessions and Praises together with fervency of spirit to power them out to God in the name of Christ. Wâ—en he had read a Psalme or Chap. in his Family in his prayer he would discover the scope meaning chiefe notes of observation and their use that his Prayer was an excellent Commentary thereupon and this not onely in the plainer but in the harder Texts of Scripture also His constant practiâ—e was besides Family-prayer twice a dâ—y and sometimes Catechizing to pray also with his wife and alone both morning and evening He set apart private dayes of Humiliation for his Family upon speciall occasions and oft for their preparation to the Lord's Supper at which times he would exceed himselfe in pouring out his soul to God with many tears He was much in dayes of private Fasting and humbling himself alone before God which impaired his health but made much for the health of his soul. He was very able and very ready to confer with and to resolve the doubts of such as came him He bare such a tender love to that great people over which God had set him that though his means was small and he had many offers of great preferment in the Church yet he would not leave them He was daily inquisitive afâ—er the affairs of Gods Church and sympathized with Gods people both in their weal and woe He was much grieved when he saw that difference in opinions bred strangnesse amongst Christians that agreed iâ— that same Fundamentall Truths He was judiciously charitable to such as shewed the power of godliness in their lives though they were not of his judgment in all things He was glad when any of the righteous smote him would tâ—ke it well not from his Superiours onely but from his Equals and far Inferiors and would really shew more testimonies of his love to such afterwards then ever he did before He abounded in works of Mercy he was a truly liberall man one that studyed liberall things seeking out to find objects of his mercy rather thâ—n staying till they were offered he did set apart and expend for many years together for good uses the tenth part of his yearly comings in both out of his Temporall and Ecclesiasticall meanes of maintenanceâ— he entertained somâ— poor Widows or necessitous persons weekly at the least at his Table and his estate prospered the better after he took this course and in his sicknesse he comforted himselfe with that promise Psal. 41.1 2. Blessed is he that considereth the poore the Lord will deliver him in the time of trouble the Lord will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing c. His last dayes were his best dayes for then he grew exceedingly in humility and in heavenly-mindednesse And a good while before his latter end God gave him victory over his greatest corruptions which for a long time kept him in continuall exercise About eight weeks before his death he was much troubled with a cough and shortnesse of breath which much weakned him yet he Preached divers times till his encreasing weaknesse disabled him In his sicknesse he gave heavenly and wholesome counsell to his people neighbours and friends that came to visit him exhorting them to labor to redeem the time to be much reading hearing and Meditating upon the Word of God much in prayer brotherly love and communion of Saints and that they would be carefull to hold that fast that he had taught them out of the Word of Truth and that whil'st the the meanes of Salvation was to be had they would neither spare pains nor cost to enjoy it His pains towards his end were very great yet he bore them patiently He was much in ejaculations and lifting up his heart to God in behalfe of the Church and State and for himselfe also wherein he was most frequent and earnest a little before his death A godly friend Minister praying with him that if his time were not expired God would be pleased to restore him for the good of his Church or if otherwise that he would put an end to his pains if he saw good he lifting up his eyes stedfastly towards heaven and one of his hands in the close of that prayer gave up the Ghost shutting his eyes himself as if he were fallen into a sweet sleep Anno 1639. and of his age 56. God tooke him away a little before the Civill Wars began and before the sad desolations that fell upon the Town of Banbury in particular Renowned William Whately also wins Like fame with Bolâ—on as two equall twins Of honour and renown for piety And admirable parts in 's Ministry In Latine Greek and Hebrew rarely able A Disputant also unconquerable Of apprehension quick of judgement clear Strong memory and that which was most dear Of a most holy life and Conversation Who many souls did win to Christs salvation And Divine-like in Scriptures eloquent In Prayer Preaching faithfull and fervent Much charity and love who still exprest Among his people a Peacemaking blest Pittifull patient full of courtesie His soul with Christ now raignes most gloriously FINIS
the little light allowed them and by the swiftnesse of their wings to regaine the shortnesse of the time So this good man as if presaging that his life was likly to be very short dying at the forty fourth year of his age husbanded it with double diligence to Gods glory and by his industry gained in thicknesse what he wanted in length 16. When Ahab dyed the Epâ—â—affe as I may say was written on his grave That he built an Ivory House A great honour indeed to have a milke-white Pallace and a blacke soul within it But of gracious Iosiah it is said 2. Chron. 35. 26. Now the rest of the acts of Josiah and his goodnesse and his deeds first and last This indeed was worth remembring I can tell the Reader of no Ivory house no beautifull building no stately structures this Master Perkines erected but as for his goodnesse with Iosiah very much may be spoken thereof For he did not onely as Scripture praise is Serve his Generation that is discharge himselfe with credit in all reference to those persons to whom he stood related in that Age he lived in but also he hath provided in his Workes a Magazine of Learning and Religion for all Generations to come So that the Levites which as yet lurkes in the loynes of Abraham their great Grandfather infants as yet concealed in their causes have just reason alwayes to bâ— thankfull to God for the benefit they receive from thosâ— Monuments he hath left behinde him His Stature was indifferent complexion ruddy hayre bright body inclined to corpulency which proceeded not from any lazinesse but pulse and paines shall make one fat where God gives the blessing He was lame of his right hand like another Ehud Iud. 3.15 yet made the instrument to dispatch many Eglon errors in judgement and vice in conversation And nature commonly compensates corporall defects with a surplusage of the Soule As for such as make bodily markes in men the brands of disgrace â—pon them we will send them to halting but true heartâ—â— Iacob bleare-eyed but faithfull Leah stammering but meeke Moses lame but loyall Mephibosheth with other Saints in the Scripture so to have their erronious judgements rectified into a more charible opinion He was much afflicted with the Stone the attendant of a sedentary life whereby his patience was much exercised This brought him at last to his long home so called Eccles. 12.5 not because man is long going thither but long yea for ever staying there When he quietly surrendred his soul into the hands of his Creator dying rich onely in Grace the love of God and good men It was true of him what Saint Paul said 2 Cor. 6.10 being poore but making many rich Even in a litterall sence the Sellers of his Books gained but small profit came to the Author He was buried in a decent manner where all the spectators were Mourners veris spirantibus lachrymis Doctor Mouâ—tague afterwards Bishop of Wincher Preached his Funerall Sermon taking for his Text Moses my servant is dead Iosh. 1.2 and hath no other Monument then his owne vertues except any will say that the plaine Stones which cover his Grave are made Marble by the worth of the Corps beneath them A Wife and many Children he left behinde him she married successively two other Husbands but no more Mr. Perkinses If any charitable disposed Person hath been blessed by God with a Cup which overfloweth and if he desireth that some drops of the same should fall upon them who are the proper objects of bounty I doubt not but an easie inquiring he may quickly finde out some of this worthy mans Children as not so poore openly to request so not so proud but they would thankfully receive such expressions of his Charity Yea what Saint Paul said of the Iews may truely be applyed to the good mans memory We are debters unto c. So that what is bestowed in this kinde on his is not so much a guift as a paying an obligation He was borne the first and dyed the last year of the reign of Queen Elizabeth so that his life ran parallel with her reigne streaming in equall length and had both their fountains and fals together He dyed Anno Dom. 1602. 1 A foundation of Christian Religion 2 His Golden â—haine or description of Divinity 3 An Exposition of the Apostles Creed 4 An Exposition of the Lords Prayer 5 A Declaration of the state of Gracâ— and Condemnation 6 Cases of Conscience 7. A discourse of the Tongue done in Latine by Thomas Drax 8 Of the nature and practice of Repentance 9 Of the meanes to dye well in all states and â—imes 10 Of the combate of the flesh and spirit into Latine by Drax. 11 Of the course to live well 12 A Treatise of Conscience 13 The Reformed Catholicke 14 Of the â—rue meanes to know Christ crucified and the Graâ—ne of Mustard-seed into Latine by Thomas Draxe 15 Of true Wealth 16 Of the Idolatry of the last times 17 Of Gods free grace and of free will in Men. 18 Of mens callings 19 Of Predestination in Latine by the Author 20 His Bible harmony 21 A Dialogue of the worlds dissolution These that follow were set forth after the Authors death 1 Three bookes of the cases of Conscience translated into Latine by Thomas Draxe and Meyer 2 Commentaries on the five first Chapters on the Galathians 3 Of Christian Equity by Carshaw 4 Of Mans Imagination set forth by Thomas Peirson 5 Problemes against Coxe in Latine by himselfe set forth by Samuel Ward 6 The key of Prophesie set forth by Thomas Tuke 7 Commentaries upon the fifth sixth and seventh chapters of Matthew set forth by Thomas Peirson 8 Commentaries on the three first chapters of the Apocalyps by Robert Hill and Thomas Peirson 9 Of the tentation of Christ from the first verse to the 12. of the fourth chapter of Matthew 10 An exhortation to Repentance 11 Two excellent Treatises of Ministers calling set out by Master Crashaw 12 A Commentary on Judes Epistle by Thomas Pickering 13 Of poysoning a Treatise 14 Against Prognosticks An Answer to a Countrey fellow 15 Of the houshold Discipline in Latine by the Author now Englished Of all the Worthies in this learned role Our English Perkins may without controle Challenge a crowne of Bayes to deck his head And second unto none be numbered For 's learning wit and worthy parts divine Wherein his Fame resplendantly did shine Abroad and eke at home for 's Preaching rare And learned writings almost past compare Which were so high estéem'd that some of them Translated were as a most precious jem Into the Latine French Dutch Spanish tongue And rarely valued both of old and young And which was very rare Them all did write With his left hand his right being uselesse quite Borne in the first dying in the last year Of Quéen Eliza a Princesse without péer Place here Bishop Androwes his Life marked with this Signiture ***