The Honour of MERCHANT-TAYLORS Wherein is set forth The Noble Acts Valliant Deeds and Heroick performances of MERCHANT-TAYLORS in former Ages Their Honourable Loves and Knightly Adventures their Combating with Forraign Enemies And glorious successes in honour of the English Nation Together with their Pious Acts and large Benâ—volences their building of publick Structures especially that of BLACKWELL-HALL to be a Market place for the selling of Woollen Cloaths For bounty valour and for buildings fair What Trade with Merchant-Taylors may compâ—â—e Of this Famous Company have been free 7 Kings of England besides Princes Dukes Earls and Lords a great number Written by VVilliam VVinstanley LONDON Printed by P. L. for William Whitwood at the Sign of the Golden-Lyon in Duck-lane 1668. The true Effigies of that Valiant Kt. and March â—â—ant Taylor Sir RALPH BLACKWELL TO The worthy Society of the Worshipful Company of MERCHANT-TAYLORS Gentlemen THe famous Acts of your noble Progenitors hath awakened my Pen to set them forth though not in so full manner as they do deserve What person skill'd in History that can be ignorant of the Worthy exploits of Sir John Hawkwood whose honour'd praise sounds thorow the Territories of all Christendom and whose heroick acts hath by Fames Trumpet been sounded forth to the utmost parts of the earth This Honoured person with several other magnanimous Hero's being of the Worthy Merchant-Taylors Trade I thought a History of them would not be unwelcome to you considering things of this Nature have been well entertained by those of other Trades inferior to you The Book of the Gentle Craft hath had a general acceptance of the Cordwainers and the History of the Six Worthy Yeomen of the West and Jack of Newleâ—y the like from the Weavers Daign therefore to accept of this and the good will of him that wrot it who is a Lover of your Society ambitious of the encrease of your honour and one that subscribes himself Yours to serve you William Winstandly To the Courteous Readers I Suppose that there is not any one who is skilfull in History that can be ignorant of the Honourable Atchievements of Merchant-Taylors a Chronicle may as well be found without words as without matter wherein in all Ages they have performed such Acts as have eternized their names in Fames Bead-roll whether by Martial Discipline bountiful liberality sumptuous structures or Honourable Love still we find this noble Company of Heroick spirits to equall if not exceed any of those Trades who claim the priority of chief and may in words boast much but must in deeds come far behind them Now there is nothing encourages young men so much to vertuous resolutions as by reading the Noble Acts of their famous predecessors which stirs in them an emulation of the like performances as we read of Themistocles that the tryumph of Miltiades would not let him sleep and the Houour of our Nation gallant Sir Phillip Sidney reports of himself that the only hearing of that old song of Piercy and Dowglas though sung no better then by an ordinary Chanter but it stirred up his valour more then the sound of the Trumpet or beat of the Drum such is the powerfull force of History that it infuses valour above all other means whatsoever nor hath it less effect in inciting persons to the building of famous structures for the beautifying of Cities or relief of decayed persons wherein none have been more eminent then this Noble Company of Merchant-Taylors as you may in part read at the latter end of this book and might be instanced in many more particulars such worthy Acts being recorded to posterity that others by reading what they have done might be incited to imitate their worthy examples and such is or should be the chief end of writing Books and was the main end intended in this the basis or foundation whereof thou wilt find courteous Reader to be a real truth though imbelished with such flowers of Poesy as I could gather out of Apollo's Garden that thou mightest be won with delight in the reading thereof But I shall not inlarge myself anyfurther nor detain thee any longer at the Porch of the History be pleâ—sed to enter in and view the rarities where with it is stored I question not but thou wilt find something therein which will give thee content which being obtained I have my wish W. W. Licensed May 18. 1668. Roger L'Estrange THE HONOUR OF Merchant Taylors CHAP. I. The birth of Sir John Hawkwood how he was bound Prentice at London to a Merchant Taylor how he fell in Love with his Masters daughter with other things that ensued thereon IN the days of that Famous and magnanimous Prince King Edward the Third there was born at Sible Henningham in the County of Essex a Right worthy Knight known afterwards to the world by the Name of Sir John Hawkwood who though born of mean and despicable Parents yet by his skill in Arms and fortunate success attained to such high Renown and Dignity that his name became most emâ—â—ently famous throughout the compass of the whole world In his very infancy he was of a quick and pregnant capacity and showed many signs of a magnanimous inclination so that this early spring of gassant resolutions promised a golden Harvest of heroick performances and that in time he should become the admired Champion of his age Having attained to some perfaction of years he was bound Prentice at London to one of the worthy Soâ—lety of Mâ—rchant Taylors wherâ— though be endured a hard Prentice-ship yet pains in youth â—nured him to undergo hard-ship afterwards when being a Souldier he was forced to extremities whereas those that never felt the miseries of want being brought into necessity wanted no kind of misery as being not inured to suffer Calamity whilest he who had been habituateâ— to hardship under went all within invincible and â—illing patience So that â—â—inual 〈◊〉 in time â—id make his labourâ— ease and pains pleasure Thus did his Apprentice-ship glide away undiscerned and Time which devours all things had now consumed above sir years of the seveâ— he had to serve his Master but 〈◊〉 when his time of 〈…〉 nigh 〈◊〉 and that he â—â—â—an as it were to have an entrance into fréedom he off a sudden became a thral to Cupid being Captivated by the inchanting beauty of Araâ—â—lla his Masters Eldest daughter but she had before so strongly placed her affection on Ralph her Fathers journey man that there was no corner of her heart lest to entertain the least love of young Hawkwoods yet notwithstanding he knew which way he affections were bent and that she had wholly resigned up her self to the disposal of Ralph yet did he not doubt but that his love and unfeigned service would in process of time so alienate her thoughts that at length he might become Master of her affections for well he knew that Ralph was of a froward peevish disposition irreconcileable in anger and apt upon the least
heresay cannot be good since misreport hath wronged many defer your guarâ—el therefore till you are fuller satisfied of the grounds of it and if William hath done you wrong no doubt but he will acknowledge it and given you satisfaction Ralph herewith as half perswaded but principally because he could not do otherwise in the presence of his Captain put up his sworn resâ—rving his râ—venge tell another season and so without speaking any more words he went his way Sir John Hawkwood perceiveing that Ralphs malice was implacable perswaded William to list himself under some other Captain till such time as he had gotten some experience when he would not be wanting to use his best endeavour to give him preferment William according to his directions went and listed himself under that renowned Champion Edward the black Prince where in a short space through his industry and Sir John Hawkwoods good word who loved him entirely he attained to an Ensigned place This vexed Ralph to see his Rival advanced for where envy is harboured in the brest of a man he takes anothers good to be his hurt and now his only studdy was revenge but wanting other means to effect it he sent him a challenge in these words If thy heart be as good to fight as it hath been to invent mischeif then meet me to morrow morning at thy own appointed place and weapon where I shall attend ye to revenge those injuries and affronts offerâ—d unto me and to the fair Arabella which if thou shalt refuse to perform I shall proclaim thee a Coward and not fit to bear Armes or to usurp the name of a Souldier Ralph William having received the challenge was very much discontented for though he was of an invincible courage not dreading any danger yet being conscious to himself of the injury he had offered to Ralph he could willingly have wished the challenge might have been waved yet being loath to undergo the aspertion of a Coward he resolved what ever hapned to undertake it and thereupon returned him this answer Lievtenant Ralph What passion moves you to these extreame I know not but seeing you will needs be so fool hardy as to venture a Duel upon it your challenge shall be answered and since you have put it to me for the choice of the place and weapon I shall appoint the field on the North side of the Camp for the one and back-sword for the other so till I see you farewel William The next morning accerâ—ing to appointment they met with a full resolution the sword should end all difference betwixt them but Sir John Hawkword having some inkling of the business was in the field as soon as either of them where seeing them come fully resolved to fight he spake unto them in this manner What desperate folly or madness rather hath thus bewitched you as I am not of your counsel so I wish it had never come to my knowledge If your stock of valour be so surpassing great bestow it upon the common enemy and let it not be employed to private disadvantage there you may fight your belly full with honour whereas here he that gains the victory purchases only disgrace and danger what is your feud so deadly that nothing can wash it away but blood or is your malice so irreconcilable that the breaches may not be made up again is life of so little worth to throw it away thus idlely and doe you set so slieght a price of your souls as to hazard them thus for a thing of nothing what is there no other remedy but that one of you must dye and can death only make expiation I you can no better command your own passions then thus you will never be fit to command others CHAP. VII The valiant Acts of Sir John Hawkwood in Italy and how he married with the Daughter of Duke Barnaby THe renowned Marchant Taylor Sir John Hawkwood having now compleated his army consisting of sir thousand Horse and Foot took his march towards Italy making great spoyl all the way he went in the East harts of the Kingdome of France his name carrying such a terrour before it as struck dead the hearts of all opposers coming into Italy he joyned himself with the Marquess of Mountferrat under whom he â—ectormed such noble services as equalled if not exceeded that of the Antient Romans he having an exceeding ripe and quick conceit to force occasions to frame his resolutions and to make speedy execution being also as occasion required both hot in his fights and notable for his delays so that he soon grew to be the wonder and admiration of all that Nation for martial Discipline Soon after Lionel Duke of Clarence sonne to Edward the third King of England came into Italy to marry the Lady Violentâ— Daughter to Galeasins Lord of Millain Sir John Hawkwood hearing thereof resolved to make one in that royall solemnity and thereupon forsook the Marquess and attended the Duke to his marriage At which time Barnaby the brother of Galeasius had great warrs with the State of Mantua who having heard of the noble acts of Sir John Hawkwood humbly desiâ—ed his assistance for he being himself a warlike Prince had a great desire to make some tryal of the discipline prowess of the Englishmen Sir John accepted of his proffer in a short time gave such proofs of his manhood valour as made Duke Barnaby highly to admire him defeating his Enemies in several skirmishes so that those who before were almost Conquerers now became humble suppliants and them who ere while stood on high demande now come to as lowly terms Duke Barnaby having now found by experience that Fame was sar short in the praises of the noble Hawkwood he grew into such a likeing of him and that likeing producing such love that he greatly desired to have him his sonne in law and thereupon bestowed on him in marriage his daughter Domnia a Lady of a most transcendent beauty and whose wit and eloquence ran paralel with her beauty one in whom he found such â—acts as he lâ—st in his Arabella who could not choose but beleved being an lovely one of such a rare fortune and composition that had the Trojan Paris seen her naked he would have strighted his Hallen of Grece for her This alliance bring made in respect of his valour in war was the occasion of the encrease both of his pay and of the renown of the Englishmen throughout all Italy that a most pulssant Prince in warâ—â— had not without sufficient cause to induce him conceived so good opinion of the valour of a man that was a stranger and for this cause his helâ— was desired by all the Princes and free Cities of Italy For at that time all marital affairs amongst the Italians were managed by forrain forces and Captains But Prince Barnaby growing ungrateful for those many benefits received by the English men the noble Hawkwood notwithstanding their alliance revolted from him and joyned
to enjoy again your most delightful Company the deprivation whereof was the greatest torment the Emperour could inflict upon me without which the most habitable place is but a desart and all pleasure but vexation and now what can I say more but to desire that Hymens torch may burn clear at our wedding and that the Sun of our happiness may not come to be Eclipsed again by any disastruous accident whatsoever Renowned Prince replyed the love sick Mariana that the Fates have restored us thus again to each other how much are we bound to Providence and next to that the renowned English General of whose worth to speak were to show the light of the Sun by a candle Now I hope will a serene sky of comfort succeed those clouds of trouble and our joy be the greater and more refined for having passed through these fires of grief and tribulation And now the time of the day gave them notice to prepaâ—e them ready to go to Church the Bridegroom was led by tro Earls daughters being apparaled in a suit of flame câ—loured Tassaty to signifie that he burnt in the flames of Love the Princess Mariana was conductor by the famous Sir John Hawkwood on the one hand and a Duke or Candy on the other her apparel was a rich Gown of sky-scloâ—r â—abble to signifie that her mince was as free from vice as a clear sky is from clouds The Priest having joyned them together in Hymens bandâ— they returned again to the Pallace where was provided for them a most sumptuous dinner wherein no cest nor art was spared to set it forth in the best manner The afternoon was spent in Musick and dancing till such time as Morpheus summoned them to sleep Next morning the Turnament began a fair large place being railed in for that purpose wherein a stage was setup for the King and the Lords to behold the same the first that entred the list was Sir John Hawkwood mounted on a cole black steeâ— his armour of the same colour denoting thereby a black day to all those that durst 〈◊〉 him he behaved himself with so much gallantry thathe foiled that day above threescore Knights to his high honour and commendations The next day his Lievetenant General being also a Merchant Taylor entered the lists mounted on a Bay horse his armour was red having upon his Burgonet a plume of â—ed seathers he likewise behaved himself with so much valour and manhood that he overcame above fifty Knights that day On the third day â—an many approved Knights against each other wherein the English Oâ—ficers behaved them â—â—ives so gallantly that they wan the prize away from all others The King in reward of such high deserts conferred on many of them the honour of Knighthood made Sir J. Hawkwood one of the principal â—eers of his Kingdom with a large annual stipend to maintain his stare and dignity The Private souldiers felt likewise-largely of his â—ounty so that every one commended the nobleness of King Ferdinando's mind and thought their blood well spent where they sound such royal gratitude all parties being thus well pleaâ—ed we wil leave them for time and return to discourse of Ralph and William whom we left at their Trades in London CHAP. XI The number of servants and noble House 〈◊〉 by Ralph how he encounted with Iurnbul the great Scotish Chamâ—ion and how he built Blackwel-hall and give it to the City of London YOu may remember the last time we speak of Ralph we left him married so his Masters daughâ—â—r the faiâ— Arabella since which time his Father in law bring left him is whole estate his customers also enâ—easing very much he was forced to take more Preâ—â—â—ces and to entertain a number of journey men by whom he was waited on to Church as a petty Prince for he had fiâ—ty prentices and threescore and ten journey-men so that he spent an Ox a wéek in his house and a hogshead of beer everyday His hosptallity was so great that there was more meat given away each day at his door then many â—ich people spend in their houses He was likewise partner in divers ships at sea which traded for Merchandize into several Countâ—ies by which means in short space he attained to a very bast estate It happened at that time that the King of Scotland invaded England in hostile manner killing burning and destroying all wheresoever he came He brought with him a great Gyant or Champion called Turnbull for that in his youth he had killed a fierce wild Bull bred in the Forest of Caledonia which had destroyed much people the same of this Champion made call people wheresoever he came to run away for dread of him for he was of such strength that he would encounter with ten men at once and to his strength was added such a cruelness of nature that he spared none which fell into his hands by aid of whom the Scots made such havock in the North parts of England as turned all places there into ruine and desolation To repress these outrages King Edward desired aid of the City of London where upon a Common Council was call'd whereat Mr. Blackwel for so was Ralphs sirname was present where it was propounded to each man what he would do for service of the King Mr. Blackwel whose heart was as loyal as his purse was large to shew a fair copy for the others to write after subscribed to go himself in pâ—rson and to carry with him a ful band whom he would maintain at his own charge this his generous subscription drew on others to contribute largely â—o that there was raised amongst them enough to furnish a formidable Army The necessities of the Kingdomes affaires requiring hast Mr. Ralph Blackwell was no soeuer come home but he told his journy men and prentâ—â—s what he had done asking them if they would be willing to go along with him to which they allteaâ—ily condiscended each striving who should exoress himself most forward for the service which heir willing mind he thankfully accepâ—ed of promising if any of them were wounded or maimed in the service they should be so carefully provided for after their return as should give them no cause to repent of their undertakings Next he bought them Muskets Pikes Drums and Colours habiting them all in a like livory of whiâ—e that they might be differenced from all others chusing the most skilful of them to be Officers under him as Livetenant Ensigne Serjants and Corporals c. This done he drew them each day before their departure out into the fleld to exercise them and make them fit for the day of baâ—tel And now the time came that the King set forwaâ—d with his Aâ—my when he found Captain Ralph ready prepared to go along with him his men so well discipline'd and accoutred that the King gave him the title of the Noble Captain his band had also given to it the name of the Royal Band whom the King
so much honored that he made them the second Company in his own Regiment all things being thus ready with a spredy march they hasted against the Scots who were than harazing with fire and sword in the Bishoprick of Durham to whom the King sent this following message That he wondered his Brother of Scotland without any cause shown should so unjustly invade his kingdome and exercise such cruelty upon the English as would make Pagans blush to own such actions that therefore he required satisfaction of him for all those injuries done or he would right himself the best he could with his sword To this the Scottish King returned answer that the King of England has made war against the French King his Allie and friend and hath done him much mischeif in his Country that in revenge of those injuries he had drawn his sword against the English and was resolved not to sheath it up again till he had taken a ful revenge on them for those damages they had done to the French The King having received this answer fâ—aught with anger and 〈◊〉 marcheth up within fight of their Army but the Scots had 〈◊〉 possessed themselves of so 〈…〉 that there was no 〈…〉 without eminent danger 〈◊〉 the King caused his 〈…〉 deep 〈…〉 about them to keep them from forraging that for want of victuals hâ— might at last compel them 〈…〉 Seven days together did the Armie his face one another when at last out comes a challenge from Sir â—urnbuâ— the Scotish Champion which containeâ— these werâ—s Think not proud English that by our lying thus still we are not able or afraid to fight with you no this is buâ— only to give you time 〈◊〉 your long march to refresh your selves that when the time comes you may be the better able to encounter with us least when you are beaten iâ— might be your excuse to say your Army was oâ—e wearied but if in the mean space there be any one amongst you that dares to fight with me hand to hand to show the Armies some little sporâ— he shall find me ready to answer him to morrow morning by eight of the clock in the meadow which lyeth on the left side of our Camp 〈◊〉 will attend his arrival with much zeal and impatiency Turnbul This Challenge being read in the English Army the noble Captain 〈…〉 King that he might accept thereof to which the King 〈…〉 whereupon by the same Messenger he returned 〈…〉 I received your challenge which promises much in the contents what ever will be performed in the Chapter according to your 〈◊〉 you shall be answered at the time and place appointed where if you perform with your sword what your pen hath promised you 〈◊〉 add to your renown if not you will onely make mirth to the English and become the Trophee of R. Blackwel King Edward having obtained this considerable victory as soon as the field was cleared commanded Captain Blackwel to put a Basenet on his head for he would Knight him the Captain desired to be excused saying he was neither worthy nor able to take such an estate upon him bâ—t the King made him to put it on notwithstanding all excuses and then with a sword in both his hands as the manner then was he strongly struck him on the neck and so Kniâ—hted him giving him a hundred pound lands a year for this noble atcheivement which he had accomplished The victor thus obtained King Edward returned with honour and triumph to London Sir Ralph Blackwel bringing along with him the Scotish Champion Sir Turnbul as his prisoner whom the King out of especial favour had bestowed upon him who was afterwards ransomed by the Scotish King for five hundred maâ—ks of 〈◊〉 The Citizenâ— of London received them with great joâ— â—inging of bells making of honesties and other devices such slocking about to behâ—ld Sir Turnbul whose same was spread in all parts as was wonderful to behold Sir Ralph was no sooner returned home and that the King had dismissed him with communications and 〈◊〉 but he returned again asâ—esh to his trade honours in him not 〈◊〉 manners well knowiâ—g that traâ—ing the great prop which upholâ— and supports a kingdome 〈◊〉 makes the inhabitants thâ—reof 〈…〉 thereof for he encreased in his 〈…〉 is that 〈…〉 of ours If thou wouldst thrive `th world and wealthy he Keep thy shop ROBIN and that wil keep thee Not long after 〈◊〉 was a great 〈…〉 homâ— called the Goâ—den Adventure which had been five years 〈◊〉 trading in the East Indies and was very richâ—â— laden with divers commodities I 〈…〉 Sir Ralph had 〈…〉 paâ—t which so advanced his estaâ—r thaâ—â—â— was 〈◊〉 chosen to be Sheriâ—â— of London in which office he behaâ—ed himself very 〈◊〉 kept a noble house and executed Justice to alâ— men impartially neither favouring the rich for thâ—iâ— mightiness nor dâ—laying the poor because of thâ—â—â—poveâ—ty but to every one dealt with so eve a hand that it grew to be a proverb as good goe to empty the Sea with a spoon as to perswade Sir Ralph from doing Justice to give some instances of his 〈…〉 maâ— not be 〈…〉 unpleasant to the Readsâ— A rich covetous Churle had lost a bag of mony containing one hundred pound wherefore be caused it to be published by the Cryer that whosoever had found the same and wouâ—d restore it he should have ten pounds for his pains It hapâ—â—d an honest poor man found it who brought it to the Churle requiring ten pound for his pains as was promised but this covetuous Carren minding to deceive the poor man deeply swore there was a hundred and ten pounds wherfore he would not give him a 〈◊〉 thereupon the poor man had a Warrant for him and brought him before Sir Ralph Blackwel where each of them having told his tale Sir Ralph commanded the mony to be produced which being done he said to the rich Churle you lost a bag of money with an hundred and ten pounds in it and this poor man found one which had onely an hundred pounds therein therefore by your own confession this is not lively to be the bag which you lost therefore here honest man doe thou take it and employ it we â—l for the good of thy wife and children and if thou findeâ— a bag with an hundred and ten pounds therein then bâ—ing it to this 〈◊〉 in the mean time keep that 〈◊〉 doest The rich Churle hearing him to decide the business so cryed out that his bag had but an hundred pounds in it and therfore desired that he might have it but Sir Ralph told him it was then too late to speak and so dismissed him without it At another time it so hapned that a Tylar being at work upon a house chanced to slip his hold and so tumbled down but by great fortune to him it was his hap to fall upon another man as he was walking by whereby he killed the other man the son of the dead man hereupon brings the
obedient wiâ—e provided all things ready that was necessary for him to carry in the journey so at the prefiâ—â—d time he set â—or â—aids attended only with one sâ—â—vant leaving the 〈◊〉 â—ing of his Trade 〈◊〉 his absence to his eldest 〈◊〉 man and the guidance of his house to his 〈…〉 many of the English â—â—bility and Gâ—ntly went aâ—â—ng with 〈◊〉 anâ— hâ—ving a 〈…〉 wind and a 〈…〉 Sea thâ—y quickly arrived at Paris the chief City of France which place they 〈◊〉 of 〈…〉 Countries who were come to try their manhood against the 〈◊〉 Bâ—â—r The King of France entertained 〈…〉 Foyallâ— and that morning they appointed to set forwards to Picardy assembling them altogether he made to them this following Orâ—tion Brave Sons of Mars whom thirst of glories prize hath invited over into this my Country I think me Court much honoured in your Noble Companies each of you â—ppearing liâ—e unto Meleager who slew the wild Bear that the incensed Diana sent amongst the Grecians for the neglect â—f her â—acrifices your looks do promise me an assured victory over that our Countryes foe which unto whose victorious Arm it shall happen shall be rewarded with a Golden Spear and an annual pension according unto his degree and dignity These words being uttered the Company set forwards being about thrée hundred in number habited all in gréeâ— like â—orresters with swords by their 〈◊〉 and Boar-spears in their hanâ—s being come within view of the place and each man ordered according to his stand they let loose a brace of lusty Beagles who soon rowzâ—d the Boar out of his Den then began every man to handle his Weapons and with a nimble eye to catch all advantages that might be taken The first that struk at him was a Sâ—â—niâ— Knight named Don Aâ—onzo who brake his Spear but won ded him nâ—t for his skin was scaâ—ely penetrable being as hard as a Buâ—s hide â—hen it is tanned The next that encountced with him was one Mounsier De Bray a French man who with great fury ran at him with his Buze-spear buâ—â—issing his blow tumbleâ— quite over him whereupon the Boar turned back so that 〈…〉 had 〈◊〉 not been reseued by several Knights that 〈…〉 whâ—ch made the Boar to leave him and take 〈…〉 William who with true English forâ—◠〈…〉 him and having broken his Spear at his first 〈…〉 sword wherewith he wounded 〈…〉 hast away no â—it 〈…〉 that bring in his toll Caâ—éere theâ—e 〈◊〉 in his way â—â—aelsh Gentâ—â—man named Shon ap Rice ap Grissiâ—h ap Howel ap David ap Morgan ap Cadwalladar who being 〈…〉 back 〈◊〉 him 〈…〉 and by that the Boar 〈…〉 Gentleman away calls Back who bring so unexpectedâ—â— surprized and monâ—ted thus on a sudden 〈…〉 and 〈…〉 Hâ—llow that 〈…〉 Boar thu◠〈…〉 Italian Brothers Sign or Francesco and Siâ—â—nior 〈◊〉 he let go his holâ— and 〈◊〉 his self 〈◊〉 him 〈…〉 Brothers wiâ—h a lustâ—-coâ—â—age set upon the Boar 〈…〉 that he turned 〈…〉 The 〈◊〉 Gentleman had by 〈…〉 himself and gotten up again uâ—on his feet but seeâ—â— the Boar 〈…〉 Cuds pluttâ—r-a-nails quoth 〈◊〉 〈…〉 in her that her can run at none but me Whereupon to 〈…〉 Boar seeing him to fly 〈…〉 and tear the â—ol of the 〈◊〉 sâ— that Sir Taffy judged 〈◊〉 his last daâ— was come as 〈◊〉 in his miâ—d eraectâ—â— tumâ—â— Jew neveâ— to abâ—de â—wines slesh again But William our valiant 〈…〉 soon 〈…〉 of his fâ—ar who 〈◊〉 wiâ—ged hast h◠〈…〉 Sir Taffy and 〈…〉 with 〈…〉 â—who came to him with open mouth as if he 〈◊〉 deveur 〈…〉 morâ—â—l he thrust his swâ—rd with all his might dewâ— his 〈◊〉 so that he 〈◊〉 his hear◠〈…〉 which made him to â—all down 〈…〉 dead When Sir Taffy who was upon the 〈◊〉 saw the 〈…〉 he quickly hasted down and drawing out his kéen 〈…〉 which was never 〈◊〉 so any mans hurt before he 〈◊〉 with might and main upon the Boar. William desired him to hold telling him that the Boat was already deaâ— no matter for that quoth Taffy but who can tell whether he may live again and therefore to make sure work he never left till he had backt of the Boars two Fore-legs and then setting his Monmouth cap aside he said now let her see whether her can run after her again The Company by this time were come in and laughed heartily at Sir Taffies valor and highly applauding Williams fortunate success each of them yellding the palm of victory to him and ascribing the honor thereof alone to his victorious arm Great was the wonderment of the people at the vast proporsion of this Boar which upon measure they found to be nine foot and a half in length from his snout to his Tayl and five foot and two inches in height his eyes were as big as Saucers and his tusks of a spans length as sharp as Spanish néedles The King of France in reward of this vallant service conferied on William the Honor of Knighthood in the same place where he had killed the Boar and with his own hands gave him a Golden Spear the prize of his Conquest Then cut they off the Boars head and fixing it on the Truncheon of a Spear it was carried in tryumph before them all the way in their return to Paris whether being come they were welcomed in most Royal manner with ringing of Bells Feastings Pageants and other costly devices the people from all quarters flocking about to behold William who had delivered their Country from their much feared enemy the destroying Boar. Sir William having tarried some few dayes at Paris growing quickly weary of Court delights and longing to behold his Native Country again he took his solemn leave of the King of France and embarking with the rest of the English in a gallant Ship they cut the briney face of Neptune and in few daies arrived in the delightful soil of England at the town of Dover where he made no tarriance but taking Horse never stayed till he came to his beloved Dorothy who entertained him with these loving expressions Thrice welcome home my dearest Husband my life 's chief joy and hearts desired treasure without whose company my life is to me irksome and uncomfortable and enjoying which all things seem pleasant and delectable For ever blessed be the immortal powers which kept thee safe throughout thy Journey and crowned thy endeavours with fortunate success now let thy mind be fixt to stay at home banish all thoughts of leaving me again less danger wilt thou find in the imbraces of a loving wise then in â—he encounters with a Savage Boar. Seal then a promise to me with a kiss The last of thy adventure shall be this My chiefest joy and hearts delight replyed Sir William who can withstand the force of this thy Oratory especially being endeared with a kiss from thy sugred lips rest assured that thy Company is to me the greatest delights that I possess in his life and from which nothing but
Taylor the renowned Hawkwood to buckle on his armour again which was occasioned as followeth England's prime honour Italies renown Who upheld all Italy from sinking down His friends also in England to his immortal memory erected for him at Sible Henningham in Essex where he was born a curious arched Monument wherein was pourtrayed the 〈◊〉 of Hawks flying in a Wood in reference to his name of Hawkwood and also built a Chauntry allowing four Priests ten pounds a pear such was the Religion of those times to pray for his soul And thus gentle Reader have we briefly shown you the noble Atchievements of some few of the renowned Society of Merchant-Taylors to ennumerate them all would require more than one mans life to set them down their number exceeding the bounds of Arithmetick Wee will end theâ—efore all in a Corollary concerning this Worshipful Company their Hall free School and some other deeds of Charity by some of that Society and to I will conclude CHAP. XIV Several worthy Acts of the Merchant-Taylors THe renowned Company of Merchant-Taylors have been a Guild or Fraternity time out of minde being called by the Name of Taylors and Linnen Armorers For I find that King Edward the first in the twentieth eight year of his Reign confirmed this Guild by the Name of T'aylors an 〈…〉 and also gave to the Brethren thereof authority every year at Midsummer to hold a feast and to choose unto them a Governour or Master with Wardens wherenpon the same year 1300 on the Feast day of the Nativity of Saint John Baptist they chose Henry de Ryal to be their Pilgrim for the Master of this Mystery as one that travelled for the whole Company was then so called untill the eleventh year of Richard the second and the four Wardens were then called Purveyors of Almes now called Quarteridge of the said Fraternity The Hall belonging to this Worshipfull Company is in Thred needle street not far distant from the Parish Church of St. Martins Oteswtich which somtime pertained to a worshipful Gentleman named Edmond Crepin he in the year of Christ 1331. The sixth of Edward the third for a certain sumne of money to him paid made his grant thereof by the name of his principal Message in the Wards of Cornhil and Broadstreet which Sir Oliver Inghani Knight did then hold to John of Yakley the Kings Pavillion maker whereupon it was then called the New-hall or Taylors Inne for a difference from their old Hall which was about the back side of the Red Lyon in Basing lane The 21 of Edward the fourth Thomas Holm alias Clarienceaux King of Arms for the South parts of England granted by his Pattents to this Noble Company of Taylors and Linnen-armourers for their Arms to bear in a field Silver a Pavilion between two Mantles Imperial purple garnished with Gold in a chief azure a holy lamb fet within a Sun the Crest upon the Helm a Pavilion purple garnished with Gold c. After this King Henry the 7 was himself a brother of this fraternity of Taylors or Linnen-armourers as divers others of his predecessors Kings had been to wit Richard the third Edward the fourth Henry the sixth Henry the fifth Henry the fourth and Richard the second And for that divers of that fraternity had time out of mind been great Merchants and had frequented all sorts of Merchandizes into most parts of the world to the honour of the Kings Realm and to the great profit of his Subjects and of his progenitors and the men of the said mistry during the time aforesaid had execrised the buying and selling of all Wares and Merchandizes especially of woollen cloath as well in gross as by Retaiâ— thoroughout all this Realm of England and chiefly within the City of London he therefore of his especial grace did incorporate them into the name of the Master and wardens of the Merchant-Taylors of the fraternity of Saint John Baptist in the City of London This Worshipful Company have a most famous Grammer School belonging unto them founded in the Year 1561. by the Master Wardens and Assistans of the Merchant-Taylors in Suffolk-lane in the Parish of St Lawrence Poulthey in Downe-gate Ward Richand Hills sometimes Master of that Company having before given 5001 towards the purchase of an House called the Mannour of the Rose sometime belonging to the Duke of Buckingham wherein the said School is now kept Now as God hath from time to time blessed this worshipful Company with abundance of wealth so have they not been leaving to distribute the same again in Charitable uses having near to their Hall built seven alms-houses wherein are placed sevea alms-men of that Company and their wives if they have any each of these seven of old time had fourteen pence the week but now of latter time their stipend by the said Master and Wardens hath been augmented to the sum of twenty six shillings the Quarter which is five pound four shillings the year to each of them besides Coals More to each of them twenty shillings the Year by gift of Walter Fish sometime Master of that Company and Taylor to her Majesty Besides this have they at the West end of Hogs-street by Tower hill certain fair Alms-houses strongâ—y builded of brick and Timber and covered with slate wherein are 14 poor sole women which receive each of them of their founders 16 pence or better weekly besides 8 pounds fifteen shillings yearly paid out of the Common Treasury of the same Corporation for fewel Now should we come to speak of the gifts and bounties of particular persons free of this Worshipful Company it would make a sufficient volumn of its self I shall only instance in one or two referring the reâ—â— to a more convenient place Robert Thorno Merchant-Taylor who dyed in the Year 1532. 〈◊〉 by his Testament to charitable actions more than four thousand four hundred forty pounds and Legacies to his poor kindred more five thousand one hundred forty two pounds besides his debts forgiven c. Sir Thomas White Lord Mayor of the City of London in Anno 1554 and a Brother likewise of the Merchant-Taylors Society founded St. John Baptists Colledge in Oxford erected Schools at Bristow Redding and a Colledge at Higham Ferries and gave several thousands of pounds to other charitable uses Sir Thomas Rowe Knight Lord Mayor of the City of London in 1568 a worthy Brother also of the Merchant-Taylors Company built the new Church-yard in Bethelem gave an hundred pounds to be lent to 8 poor men and 40 pounds yearly to maintain ten poor men for ever to be chosen out of the five several Companies of Clothworkers Armourers Carpenters Tylars and Plaisterers Sir Thomas â—ffley Merchant Taylor Mayor who deceased Anno 1580 appointed by his Testament the one half of all his goods and 200 pounds deducted out of the other half given to his son Henry to be given and bestowed in deeds of Charity by his Executors according to his confidence and trust in them Infinite others might we produce whose charities and bountiful house keeping have been as conspicuous as the Sun in the Firmament no Society having produced more brighter stars in Fames horizon but we shall leave the further prosecution hereof unto a second Edition of this book The song to be sung by the Journey-men Taylors on St. Williams day at night O Fall the Tradeâ— that ever were Who with the Taylors may compare That fits the Ladies to a hair And makes them fine and brave They on their Shop-boards sit and sing And live contented as a King Their trade such profit doth them bring They scorn to play the knave The fairest Ladies in the Land Doth to the Merchant Taylor stand Whilest he with parchment in his hand Takes measure of their bodies They are content to handled be By no one trade but only he But to tell all which they do see They are not such dull Noddies The Taylor he goes neatly drest He eats and drinketh of the best He takes no care his heartâ—â— at rest But sings like to a Linnet A litttle matter him up sets He comes not in the Userers debts At great mens fortunes he not frets He knows there 's danger in it His Shop board is his Seat of state On which he sits early and late Free from ambitions deadly hate Or from base envies spight His Thimble doth his finger guard Whilst he doth sing and work full hard He from content is not debar'd His actions being right His Needle is the tool by which He in a short time doth grow rich By sowing of full many a stitch In cloath and eke in stuffe His sheeres the cloath doth cut whereby He makes a garment handsomly This is the sheeres sole property And that is sure enough His Iron Goose at his desire Lyes alwayes roasting at the sire To press those seams that do aspire And will not handsome be His Bodkin maketh holes whereby Men do with points their Breeches tye And women lace them prittily A comely sight to see Thus doth his trade him profit bring Being shaddowed under Fortunes wing And when for service of his King He called is to fight He doth obey his Kings command Although it be to forrain land To fight as long as he can stand With all his strength and might In service of their King and Queen What souldiers brave have Taylors been May in the Chronicles be seen Which cannot be withstood Their acts do show they valliant were Their dearest blood they would not spare Nor for their lives at all did care To do their Country good FINIS