CHAP. I. The Persecution of the Church in the first Ages of the World, and so forward till the Incarnation of Christ.

THE first Murtherer and Persecutor that was in the World, was the Devil, and the first method and means that he made use of to carry on this perse­cution, was by subtilty and large promises, that by eating the forbidden fruit, they should have their eyes opened, Gen. 3.5. and should be as gods knowing good and evil: and hereby he drew our first Parents from their Obedience unto God, and cheated them of that blessed and happy estate which God had created them in. Since which time his enmity against the Church and Children of God hath never ceased: but by his effectual working in the Children of dis­obedience, he hath provoked and stirred up one man to be the Persecu­tor and Devourer of another: Thus he provoked Cain to rise up against, and to slay his brother Abel, Gen. 4.8. Abel. and though the Scripture be silent how the wicked Cainites, the sons of men, behaved themselves towards the sons of God; yet doubtless they perse­cuted them with the tongue, if they proceeded no further. Can we imagine that Noah, Noah. that was a Preacher of Righteousness in the midst of a perverse generation, could escape without hatred, scorn and contempt? How many jeers (think ye) had he whilest he was building the Ark, as doting and dreaming (not of a dry Summer, but) of a wet winter? the earth in his days was said to be corrupt and filled with violence, Gen. 6.11. which violence certainly was principally exercised against the Church [Page 2] of God: And afterwards when the world was reduced to a very small number, yet then Satan had his cursed Ham that persecuted and mock­ed his own father,Gen. 9.22. Lot. Isaac. the righteous Noah. Was not Lot also persecuted and scoffed at in Sodom? Gen. 19.9. Isaac in Abrahams house mocked by Is­mael? Jacob. Gen. 21.9. Was not Jacob hated and persecuted by his brother Esau? Joseph. Gen. 27.41. Joseph by his brethren? Gen. 37.4. and that because he brought unto his father their evil report, verse 2. Was he not afterwards cast into a pit by them? ver. 24. Then sold to the Ishmaelitish Merchants, who carried him into Egypt, ver. 28. There he was persecuted by his whorish Mistriss, Gen. 39.17, 18. Cast into prison, where his feet were hurt with fetters, and he was laid in irons, Psal. 105.18. But these were but small persecutions in comparison of those which followed.

Th [...] Israelites in Egypt.For when the Children of Israel were multiplied in Egypt, Pharaoh King of Egypt set over them Task-masters to afflict them with their burdens, Exod. 1.11▪ thinking thereby to eat up, and wear them out; and when that prevailed not, they made them serve with rigour, and they made their lives bitter with the hard bondage in Mortar, and in Brick, and in all manner of service in the field; all the service wherein they made them serve, was with rigour, ver. 13, 14. And when this prevailed not, the King commanded the Midwives, Siphrah and Puah, when they did the office of a Midwife to the Hebrew women, and saw them upon the stools, if they were delivered of a son, they should presently kill him, ver. 15, 16. and when these Midwives neglected his commands, he charged all his people that every son that was born to the Israelites, should be cast into the river Nilus, v. 22.

Moses. Moses was persecuted by Pharaoh, who sought to slay him; which caused him to fly into the Land of Midian, Exodus 2.15. And when God sent him back into Egypt to deliver his people from the house of bondage, how did Pharaoh persevere and proceed in his per­secuting the people of God: he caused straw to be taken from them, and yet the number of Bricks to be continued; and when the task was not done, the Officers of the Children of Israel were cruelly beaten, ver. 14. And when God had brought out his people with an high hand from under the Tyranny of the Egyptians, and carried them into the wilder­ness, how did Satan stir up some sons of Belial against Moses and Aaron, even Korah, and his complicies, two hundred and fifty Princes, who cried out against them,Moses and Aa­ron. Ye take too much upon you, seeing all the Congregation are holy, even every one of them, Numb. 16.3. Afterwards when the children of Israel were setled in the land of Canaan, they were often grievously oppressed, and persecuted by the wicked and I­dolatrous nations that lived amongst them, and round about them; as first by Chushan-Rishathaim, King of Mesopotamia, who tyrannized over them eight years Judg. 3.8. Then by Eglon King of Moab, who slew ma­ny of them,Israel in the time of the Judges. and oppressed them eighteen years, v. 13, 14. Then by the Philistines, v. 32. Then were they mightily oppressed for twenty years together, by Jabin, King of Canaan, Judg. 4.2, 3. Then did the Midianites persecute them with so much cruelty, that they were forced to forsake their houses, and to make them Dens and Caves in the Mountains, to [Page 3] shelter and hide themselves from them, Judg. 6.2. yea for seven years together they tyrannized over them; and when the Israelits had sowen their land, they came up in such multitudes, that they destroyed the in­crease of the earth, and left no sustenance for Israel, neither sheep, nor oxe, nor asse, ver. 3, 4. Then the Philistines again, and the Ammonites Lorded it over Israel, and brought them into great distresse for eighteen years, Judg. 10. [...]. After that the Philistines yet againe oppressed them for forty years together, Judg. 13.1. And afterwards they slew of them in two battels thirty four thousand, and carried away the Ark of God also, 1 Sam. 4.2, 10, 11. Then in Sauls time, these Philistines so distressed Israel, Jsrael in Saul's time. that the people were forced to hide themselves in caves and thickets, and in rocks, and in high places, and in pits; yea some of them forsook their own country, and fled beyond Jordan, 1 Sam. 13.6, 7. and the land was so en­slaved to them, that there was not a Smith to be found in Israel, but the Philistines either slew them, or carried them away captives, so that the Israelites were fain to go to the Philistines to have their instruments of husbandry set in order, ver. 19, 20.

How David was persecuted by Saul all his time,David. the Scripture doth amply set forth, 1 Sam 19. &c. and was not he persecuted grievously, when cursed and railed upon by Shimei, 2 Sam. 16.5, 6, &c. The Church of God was afterward persecuted under Rehoboams reign, by Shishak King of Egypt, who took Jerusalem, 1 King. 14.25, 26. and carried away the Treasures of the Lords house, and of the Kings house into Egypt. And again under Asa, by Baasha King of Israel, 1 King. 15.16. and by Zerah the Ethiopian, Judah under the Kings. who came against Judah with an Army of a thousand thousand men, and three hundred chariots, 2 Chron. 14.9. Yea so malicious and subtile is Sa­tan that he sometimes stirs up one Saint to persecute another; as he stir­red up good King Asa to persecute the Prophet of the Lord who dealt plainly and faithfully with him, by casting him into prison,Asa persecutes a Prophet. 2 Chron. 16.10.

Michaiah also was persecuted and imprisoned by Ahab, Michaiah. 2 Chron. 18.25, 26. Under Jehosaphat the Church of God was persecuted by the Moabites, Ammonites and Edomites, Gods judge­ment on Per­secutors. Elijah. Elisha. whom God destroyed by setting of them one against another, 2 Chron. 20.23.

Elijah was persecuted by Ahab and Jesabel, 1 King. 18.10. and 19.2. The Prophets of the Lord were slain by Jesabel, 1 King. 18.13. Elisha was hated and persecuted by Jehoram. 2 King. 6.31. in the reign of this Je­horam, the Philistines and Arabians mightily oppressed Judah, 2 Chro. 21.16, 17. Then Athaliah by murthering the Kings seed, usurpeth the King­dom, and tyrannizeth five years, 2 Chro. 22.10. Joash in his reign slayeth Zechariah for reproving him, 2 Chron. 24.21.Zechariah. The Church was op­pressed at the same time by the Syrians, ver. 23. and afterwards also in the reign of Ahaz, 2 Chron. 28.5. and about the same time the King of Israel slew of Judah a hundred and twenty thousand, and carried away captive two hundred thousand men, women and children.2 Chron. 28.8. Judah was also oppressed by the Edomites, ver. 17. and by the Philistines, ver. 18. and by the King of Assyria, ver. 20. and chap. 32.1. Manasses persecuted [Page 4] the Prophet Isaiah for reproving him,Isaiah. and caused him to be sawn a sun­der with a wooden saw. Josephus. Afterwards Pharaoh Necho tyranni­zed over Judah, 2 Chron. 36.3. and after him Nebuchad [...]ezzar ▪ v 6; &c. and so the sins of Judah being come to the full, the good figgs were car­ried away captive to Babylon, Jer. 24.1, &c. and the land afterwards was wholly laid waste and destroyed: which being foretold by the Prophet Jeremiah, the wicked Jews, Jeremiah. first persecuted him with the tongue, Jer. 18.18. then was he smitten, and put into the stocks, Jer. 20.2. then was he indanger of death by the Preists and false Prophets, Jer. 26.8. then was he impri­soned by Zedekiah, Jer. 32.2, 3. then he is beaten, and again put into pri­son, Jer. 37.15. and after that cast into a dungeon, where he stuck in the mire, Jer. 38 6. then by the wicked Captains he was carried into Egypt, Jer. 43.6, 7. What grievous afflictions the Church and people of God endured about this time, see it set forth to the life in the book of the Lamentations.

The 3 Chil­dren.In the time of the Captivity, the three Children were persecuted by Nebuchadnezzar, and thrown into the fiery fornace, for refusing to wor­ship his golden Image,Daniel. Dan. 3.23. Daniel was persecuted by Darius his Courtiers, and cast into the Lions den, Dan. 6.16. Mordecai was hated and persecuted by Haman, Mordecai. and a Decree procured for the murthering of all the people of God in one day, Esth. 3.13.

Israel after the Captivity.After the return of the Jews from captivity, the people of the Land laboured to weaken the hands of the men of Judah, and troubled them in the building of the Temple, and hired Counsellors against them to accuse them to Cyrus, and Ahasuerus: they wrote also against them to Artaxerxes, that they were a rebellious people, and that if they should be suffered to build Jerusalem, they would neither pay toll, tribute, nor cu­stom to the King, Ezra. 4.4, &c. and having by this malicious suggestion gotten authority, they came upon the poor people of God, and enforced them to give over th [...]ir worke. Yea▪ and afterwards, when by the com­mand of the Lord, the Jews had again set upon the building, Tatnai and Shether-Bosnai came up to discourage and discharge them from it; and when this prevailed not, they wrote against them to King Darius. Again, when Nehemiah came to Jerusalem, and began to build the wall of the City, how were they scorned and jeered by Sanballat, Tobiah and Geshem? Nehe. 2.19. and [...]. 2 3▪8. And when the work prospered in their hands, and jeers would not prevaile to stop it, they then conspired to fight against Jerusalem, and so to hinder it; but neither that prevailing, by reason of the prudent carriage of Nehemiah, Nehemiah. they then sought to entrap him, and by destroying him, to hinder the work, Nehe. 6.2. Then they accused the people of God of treason and rebellion, ver. 6, &c. Then they hired a false Pro­phet to terrefie Nehemiah, ver. 10, 12. Then they corrupted, and held in­telligence with some of the Nobles of Judah to betray him; notwith­standing all which designes, God preserveth Nehemiah, and the building of Jerusalem is finished. And thus farre the sacred Scriptures of the Old Testament have given us a certain Register of the Persecutions, Martyrdomes and sufferings of the Church and children of God for [Page 5] the space of about three thousand five hundred years; from the creation of the world, to the Restauration of the Jewish Polity under Nehemiah.

CHAP. II. The Persecution of the Church from Nehemiah to Antiochus his time.

AFter the death of Eliashib the High-Priest, Judas his sonne succeed­ed, and after him John his sonne, which John had a brother called Jesus, who was much favoured by Bagoses, Generall of Artaxerxes, who promised him the Priesthood, which made him take occasion to quarrel with his brother John, The Jews per­secuted by Ba­goses. who thereby was so much provoked against him, that he slew him in the Temple; Bagoses being informed hereof, came with his Army to Jerusalem, and kept the Jews in bondage seven years, making them tributaries, so that before they could offer their daily sacrifice, they were compelled to pay for every Lamb, fifty Drachmes. After the death of John, Jaddus his sonne succeeded in the priesthood, in whose time Alexander the Great passed over the Helle­spont, and having overcome the Lieutenant of Darius, he conquered ma­ny countries in Asia minor, intending suddenly to come upon Jerusalem. Jaddus being informed of his intention, was sore afraid; he therefore offered sacrifice,Prayer in times of danger. and commanded the people to make their prayers unto God, for direction and protection in this common danger: and when he heard that Alexander approached, he caused the Priests and people to put on white garments, and himself, attired in his Priestly robes, went before them; when Alexander espied them, he himself marched be­fore the rest of his company, and coming to the High-Priest, he fell down on his face before him: then did all the Jews circle him in round about, and with one voice saluted him. Alexanders chief Commanders were wonderfully astonished at this deportment of the King, and thought he was out of his wits: and Parmenio stepping to him, asked him what he meant thus to adore the High-Priest of the Jews, when as all other men adored him; Alexander answered, I doe not adore him, but that God whom the High-Priest worshipeth; for in my sleep I saw him in such an habit when I was in Macedonia, consulting with my self how I might conquer Asia; and he bad me to make no delay, as­suring me that he would both guide me and my Army, and would deli­ver the Empire of the Persians into my hands: Then gave he the High-Priest his hand, and went with him to the City, and comming to the Temple, he offered sacrifice according to the direction of the High-Priest; then did Jaddus shew him Daniels Prophecy, wherein his vi­ctories over the Persians, and his Monarchy were foretold, which much rejoyced Alexander: then did he command the Jews to ask some fa­vours at his hands; the High-Priest requested onely that they might [Page 6] live after the Ordinances of their forefathers, and that every seventh year they might be exempted from taxes and tributes, which he fully granted: they besought him likewise that the Jews which were in Me­dia and Babilon, might be permitted to live after their own Laws, which he willingly promised, and so departed: this was about the year of the world 3632. and before Christs nativity 332.

After the death of Alexander, his Kingdom was divided amongst his Captains, amongst whom Ptolemy the son of Lagus held Egypt, who falling out with Antigonus that held Asia minor, there grew great wars between them, wherein Ptolemy won from him all Syria, and going to Jerusalem on a Sabbath day under pretence to offer sacrifice, the Jews suspecting nothing, he surprised the City, carrying away many of the Jews into captivity into Egypt: but after his death, his son Ptolemy Phi­ladelphus at his owne cost redeemed an hundred and twenty thousand of them, paying twelve Crowns apeece for each of them, and sent them back into their owne countrey: He sent also by them fifty talents of gold for the temple, and obtained of Eleazer the High Priest, the Law of the Jews, and 72 Interpreters (out of every Tribe some) who tran­slated it into Greek in 72 daies: and having finished their work, Pto­lemy returned them with great rewards for themselves, and with many rich presents to Eleazer.

Antiochus and Ptolemy being at war each against other, the Jews suf­fered much by them, Mach. 1.

CHAP. III. The persecution of the Church of God under Anti­ochus Epiphanes, before the nativity of Christ about 168 years.

AFterwards the Jews being divided amongst themselves, one part of them went to Antiochus, telling him that their purpose was to forsake the Religion and Ordinances of their forefathers,Apostates. and to fol­low that of the Kings, and to live after the manner of the Greeks, en­treating him to license them to live in Jerusalem; which Antiochus as­senting to, they went to Jerusalem, where they behaved themselves very wickedly, but finding opposition from the other party of the Jews, they sent for Antiochus, who led his army against Jerusalem, and encam­ped before it, and by his faction within, had the gates opened, and the City betraied to him,Antiochus en­tred Jerusalem. about the year of the world 3796. and before the nativity of Christ 168.

Being entred Jerusalem he slew many of the faithfull Jews, and ha­ving taken great spoils, he returned back to Antioch.

[Page 7] Two years after he came to Jerusalem again, and having seen what quantity of gold was in the Temple, and what a huge number of Presents and precious Ornaments were in the same, he was so over­come with covetousness, that he violated all conventions and conditions formerly made, equally raging against his own and the adverse party, sparing neither friend nor foe: then he spoiled the Temple, and carried away the Vessels dedicated unto God, the golden Table, the golden Candlestick, the Censers,Antiochus robs the Temple. &c. leaving nothing behind him of any va­lue; yea, he inhibited the godly Jews from offering their usual and dai­lie sacrifices to God; and having spoiled the whole City,Forbideth the daily sacrifice. he slew many of the Inhabitants, and carried the rest away into Captivity, with their Wives and Children, to the number of ten thousand: He also burned the fairest buildings of the City, and brake down the wals, and raised a Fortress in the lower City, and having inclosed it with high wals, he planted a Garison of Macedonians therein, with whom remained the scum of the Apostate Jews. He also caused an Altar to be erected in the Temple, on which he commanded swine to be offered in Sacri­fice, contrary to the Law.

He constrained the Jews to forsake God, and adore those Idols which himself vvorshiped; he forbad them to circumcise their Children▪ His Cruelty. and appointed Over-seers to constrain them to fulfill his Commandments, so that many for fear of punishment conformed themselves to his will; But such as were of upright hearts, and valiant minds, little respected his menaces; whereupon they were beaten,Christian cou­rage. and exposed to cruel pu­nishment many days together, in the midst of which they yielded up the ghost; for after they were whipt, and maimed in their bodies, they were tortured and crucified; the women vvere strangled, and the cir­cumcised children vvere hung up about the necks of their parents; and vvhere any books of the sacred Scriptures vvere found, they de­faced, and burnt them, and such with vvhom they vvere found,The Scriptures burnt. vvere put to most cruel deaths.

At this time there dvvelt at Modin (a Village of Jury) one vvhose name was Matthias, a Priest of the rank of Joarib, that had five sons, John called Gaddis, Simon called Matthes, Judas called Maccabeus, Ele­azer called Aaron, and Jonathan called Apphas. This Matthias often complained to his sons of the miserable state of their Countrey, of the sacking of their City, the profanation of the Temple,Matthias his zeal. and the mise­ries of the people, telling them, that it was better for them to die for the Law, then to live in Ignominy. When therefore the Kings Commi­saries came unto Modin, and commanded the people to sacrifice ac­cording to the Kings Edict; they first applied themselves to Matthias as to the most Honourable person amongst them, requiring him first to offer sacrifice, that others might follow his example, promising that the King vvould much honour him for it. Matthias ansvvered that he vvould by no means commit that Idolatry, assuring them,A noble Reso­lution. that though all other Nations, either for love or fear, should obey the Edicts of Antiochus, yet that he, nor his children could be induced to forsake the [Page 8] Religion of their fathers: As soon as he had thus spoken, a certain Jew stepped forth to offer sacrifice according to the command of the King, wherewith Matthias, inflamed with zeal, was so displeased, that he and his sons fell upon him,Zeal. and with their swords hewed him to pieces; he also slew Apelles the Kings Captain, and some other soul­diers, who would have withstood him. Then he overthrew the Altar and with a loud voice, he said, If any one be affected to the Laws of their fathers, and to the service of God, let him follow me? and so he retired into the deserts with his sons; the like did the rest, with their wives and children, hiding themselves in caves and dens. The Kings Cap­tains having intelligence hereof, with the Garison that was in the Ci­tadel at Jerusalem, they pursued them into the desert, and having over­taken them, they first endeavoured by perswasions to draw them to Idolatry; but the Jews absolutely refusing to yield to their wicked wils, resolved rather to die then to submit to them, and to commit such im­piety;The Jews murthered, re­fusing to fight on the Sabbath day. whereupon these bloody persecutors assailed them on the Sab­bath day, and burned them in their caves, who neither resisted their enemies, nor closed up the mouths of their Caves, supposing it to be a violation of the Sabbath, if they should fight or work upon that day; some thousands of men, women and children were there stifled; yet divers escaped, who joined themselves with Matthias, and chose him for their Captain. Then did he inform them, that they ought to fight on the Sabbath day, if they were assailed by their enemies, and pre­vailed with them not to be guilty of their own death, by their neglect to defend themselves; and so having assembled a sufficient number, he destroyed the Altars, and slew those that had forsaken their Religion: commanding others to circumcise their Children, and driving those from every place, whom Antiochus had set to see his Laws executed. But when he had thus governed one year, he fell sick, and perceiving his end to approach, he called his sons, and exhorted them to follow his steps in maintaining the Law of God,Matthias his sickness. and fighting for their Coun­trey, telling them, that then they should have God for their Assister, who will not forsake those that love and fear him, but taking pleasure in their vertues, will once more grant them favour to recover their former peace and liberty; and saith he, God will establish you in the posses­sion of your ancient Laws; His counsel to his sons. and though our bodies be mortal, and subject unto death, yet the memory of our virtuous actions is enfranchised by immortality; make therefore no difficulty to hazard your lives in so good a cause: But above all things I exhort you unto concord, and in whatsoever any one of you shall be found more naturally apt and fitted then another, let him prosecute the same without any contradiction from the rest: I charge you to obey your brother Simon (who is a Politick and valiant man) in whatsoever he shall coun­sel you: but make Judas your Captain, who is both valiant and strong, for he shall revenge the injuries and out-rages which have been done to our Nation, and shall put our enemies to flight; second him therefore with men of valour, His death. and such as fear God, and by this means you shall be sure to prevail.

CHAP. IV. The Life of Judas Maccabeus.

AFter Matthias his death, Judas took upon him the government of the wars, and by the help of his brethren, and other Jews, he drave the enemies out of the countrey, purg [...]ng the land of all the un­cleaness that had been brought into it. But when Apollonius, who was Antiochus his Generall in Samaria, heard of it, he gathered his Army together, and invaded Judea, against whom Maccabeus went forth, and after a terrible battel, overthrew him,Apollonius slain. slew Apollonius and many of his souldiers; took his Camp, and therein a very rich booty; and Judas gat Apollonius his sword for his part in the spoil. Then Seron Governor of Caelosyria gathered all his forces together, and hired ma­ny Apostate Jews to joyn with him, and so marched against Judas as far as Bethoron: Judas also advanced towards him, but when he per­ceived that his souldiers were unwilling to fight, by reason of the in­equality of their numbers, and for that they had eaten no meat, but had fasted for a long time, he encouraged them, saying, that the means to obtain the victory, consisted not in the greatness of their number, but in their devotion towards God;Judas encou­raged his soul­diers. whereof they had evident exam­ples in their forefathers, who with a small number, had often defeated many thousands of their enemies, &c. Hereby he so prevailed with his souldiers, that, dreadless of the number of their enemies, they all together ran upon Seron, and after a cruel fight, routed his Army, and slew him together with eight hundred of the Syrians;Seron slain. The rest escaped by flight.

Antiochus hearing of these things, was highly displeased, and there­fore he assembled all his forces, and hired many mercenaries, but ha­ving mustered his Army, he found that his treasure failed him to pay so great a multitude; whereupon he resolved, first to go into Persia, to gather up his tributes: and in the meane time he made Lysias his Vice­gerent, a man of greate esteem with him, and one that governed all the countries from Euphrates to the borders of Egypt: with him he also left some Elephants, and part of his Army, commanding him ex­presly, that when he had conquered Judaea he should make the inha­bitants thereof his slaves,Antiochus his [...]rpel com­mand. and sell them to those that would give most for them, and that he should destroy Jerusalem, and utterly abolish that race. Lysias having received this commandment, sent Ptolemy, Nicanor, and Gorgias (men of great authority about the King) with an Army of forty thousand Foot, and seven thousand Horsemen; to in­vade Jury; who marching as far as the City Emmaus, encamped in the field; and increased their Army with many Syrians, and Apostate Jews. There came also divers Merchants a long with them to buy the priso­ners that should be taken, bringing gieues along with them to manacle [Page 10] the prisoners withall. Judas having viewed the Camp, and number of his enemies, encouraged his souldiers, exhorting them to repose their confidence and hope of victory in God: he also appointed a F [...]st, that they might humble themselves, and call upon God, by supplications and prayers,Fasting and prayer before the battel. for success in such an extreame danger. Then he told them that God would have compassion upon them, and give them strength to stand against their enemies, and to put them to shame. The next day he marshalled his Army by thousands, and by hundreds, and sent away all that were newly married, or that had lately bought pess [...]ssi­ons, according to the Law. And t [...]en he said unto the rest: My coun­trymen and companions, His exhortati­on to his Army we never yet had any occasion more necessary, wherein we ought to express our courages, and contemn dangers, then at this present; for now if you fight valiantly, you may recover your liberties, which ought the more to be prised, because thereby you may win opportunity to ser [...]e God, and so live an happy life: but if ye prove cowards in the fight, you shall be branded with perpetuall infamy, and hazard the utter extirpation of our Nation. Think therefore, that if you fight not, you must die: and on the con­trary, assure your selves, that in fighting for your Religion, Laws and Liberty, you shall obtain immortall glory: be ready therefore, that to morrow morning you may bid your enemies battel. Immediately news was brought him, that Gorgias with five thousand foot, and a thousand horsemen, was sent forth under the conduct of some fugitives, by night to fall upon him; whereupon he resolved the same night to break into the enemies Army whilest they were thus divided. Having therefore refreshed himself and Army, leaving many fires in his Camp thereby to deceive the ene­my, he marched all night to seek them out. Gorgias finding that the Jews had forsaken their Camp, conceited that for fear they were fled into the mountains, and therefore he resolved to search them out diligently. But in the morning, [...]udas accompanied only with three thousand men and those but ill armed because of their poverty, shewed himself to the e­nemies that were at Emmaus, and having viewed their warlike discipline, and mighty number, and how well they were incamped, he encouraged his followers to fight v [...]liantly, telling them, that God would deliver their enemies into their hands, and thereupon causing his Trumpets to sound, he rushed in upon his enemies with such fury and resolution, as altogether affrighted and discouraged them;A wonderfull v [...]ctory. and having slaine such as resisted, he pursued the rest as farre as the plains of Idumaea, &c. In this fight [...]bout three thousand of the enemies were slain; yet would he not suffer his souldiers to take the spoil, telling them, that as yet they were to fight with Gorgias and his Army, but so soon as they had (through Gods mercy) with the lik [...] val [...]ur beaten them, they might then securely enrich themselves by the prey of all their enemies. Gorgias with his Army being upon an hill, and discovering the flight of their friends,Gorgias flies. and the Jews readinesse to give them battell, were so affright­ed, that they also fled; whereupon Judas with his men returned to ga­ther the pillage, and having found great store of gold, silver, scarlet and purple,Thanksgiving. he returned to his dwelling with joy, praising God for their happy success.

[Page 11] Lysias hearing of this overthrow was much enraged, and presently assembled another army of neer sixthy thousand chosen foot, and five thousand horsemen, wherewith he went to invade Judaea and encamp­ed in Bethsura: Judas hearing of it, came forth against him with ten thousand men, and seeing the number of his enemies so farre to ex­ceed his, he earnestly cried unto God, that it would please him to fight with, and for him;Prayer. and then charged the vanguard of the ene­my with so great force, that he discomfited, and slew about five thou­sand of them, Lysias perceiving hereby the resolution of the Jews, Lysias beaten. who would rather die then lose their liberty, he returned with the rest of his Army unto Antioch, where he continued, and entertained many mercenaries, to make a greater Army for the conquest of the Jews: In the meane time Judas assembled the people, and told them, that having obtained so many victories, through the mercy of God, they ought now to go up to Jerusalem, and purifie the Temple that was desolate, and to offer unto God the sacrifices that were ordained by the Law.The Temple cleansed. Then going up with a great multitude of people he found the Temple desolate, the gates burned, and grass growing within the same: grieving therefore at so sad a spectacle, he began to weep, and all the people that were with him, and having chosen out some of his best souldiers, he commanded them to force the garisons which were in the fortresses, whilest himself purged the Temple. Then he caused to be made a Table, a Candlestick, and Altar for incense, all of gold; he put up a rail also, and set gates to the Temple: and having thrown down the Altar of burnt-offerings that was profaned by Antiochus, The service of God restored. he built a new one of stones neither hewed nor hammered: Then on the twenty fifth of Chasleu [September] were lights set in the Candlestick, per­fumes laid upon the Altar, loaves set upon the Table, and sacrifices of­fered upon the new Altar, which was the same day three years where­in before the sacred service was changed into profane and hatefull im­piety. Then did Judas with his country-men celebrate a feast unto the Lord for eight daies, praising God with Hymns and Psalms. He enclosed the City also with a wall, and built high Towers thereon, in which he planted Garisons against the incursions of the enemies. He fortified also the City of Betsura, that it might serve as a Fort against the enemy.

But the nations round about them, being greatly displeased with this prosperity of the Jews, oppressed divers whom they surprised by am­bushes and treachery;The Edomites overcome. whereupon Judas warred against them to hin­der their incursions: he slew many of the Idumaeans, and brought a­way a great prey out of their country, and shut up the sonnes of Baan ▪ their Prince, who lay in waite for the Jews, and after a siege, he over­came them, setting fire on their Towers, and killing all the men that where therein. After this he made warre upon the Ammonites, who had a mighty Army under the conduct of Timotheus: The Ammo­nites overcome. with these he fought and overcame them, and took their City of Jazor, and burned it, leading their wives and children into captivity, and so returned into Judaea: But the neighbouring nations hearing of his departure, assem­bled [Page 12] themselves together against the Jews in Galaad, who retiring into the sort of Dathema, sent to Judas, requesting him to come and re­lieve them; and whilest he was reading their Letters, other messen­gers came out of Galile, informing him that they were assaulted by the inhabitants of Ptolomais, Tyre, and Sidon, and others there abouts. Here­upon Judas commanded his brother Simon to take three thousand cho­sen men, and with them to relieve those Jews that were assailed in Ga­lile: and himself with his brother Jonathan, accompanied with eight thousand fighting men, marched into Galaad, leaving the rest of his forces under two other Captains, whom he commanded to have a watchfull eye over Judaea, yet not to joyn battell with any enemy till his returne.Simons victo­ries in Galile. Simeon in Galile fought against his enemies, discomfited them, pursued them to the gates of Ptolemais, and slew about three thousand; and having gathered their spoils, he released many Jews that were pri­soners, restored their goods to them, and so returned home. But Ju­das having passed Jordan, and marched three daies journey, he met the Na [...]athians, who told him that his brethren were besieged in their Castles and Cities, and some of them were already brought into great exrteamity and penury: Hereupon he first assailed the Inhabitants of Bosra, Judas taketh Bozra. tooke their City, set it on fire, and killed all the men that were able to bea [...] arms: then marching all night, he came early in the morning to the Castle, where the Jews were besieged by Tymothies Army. The enemies were just then raising their ladders to scale the walls, and applying their engins for battery: Then did he incourage his men to fight valiantly for their brethren that were in danger, and causing his Trumpets to sound, he distributed his forces into three battalions, wherewith he assaulted the enemies, but they, hearing that it was Mac [...]abaeus, Overcometh Timothy, were struck with so great a fear, that immediately they fled: Judas with his men pursuing them, slew about eight thousand, and then marching to Malla [a City of the enemies] he surprised it, slew all the men therein, and burnt it with fire; after which he destroyed Chaspomo, Bosor, and divers other places.

Shortly after Timothy leavied another great Army, hired many of the Syrians, and drew forth all his allies to his assistance; with these he marched to Jordan exhorting them valiantly to oppose the Jews and to hinder their passage over the river, telling them that if the Jews gat over, they were sure to be put to the worst: Judas hearing hereof, marched hastily against his enemies, and having passed the river, he presently set upon them,Timothy again overcome. killing some, and grievously affrighting the rest, who casting away their arms, immediately fled; some of them to save themselves fled into a Temple called Carnain, but Judas having taken the City and Temple, slew them and burnt the same. Then did he lead away with him all the Jews that lived in Galaad, together with their wives, children and substance, and brought them into Judaea.

When he drew near to the town of Ephron, they had baricadoed up his way that he could not pass: then did he send Ambassadors to them, to desire them to open his passage; which when they refused, [Page 13] he besieged the City, took it by assault, burned it down,Ephron destroy­ed. Thanksgiving for victory. A miracle of mercy. and slew all the men that were therein. After having passed over Jordan, they came into Judaea with great joy and gladnesse, praising God, and offering sa­crifices of thanksgiving to him, for the safe return of his Army; for that in all those battels and encounters, he had not lost one Jew.

But whilest Judas and Simon were gone upon these expeditions, the two Captains which he had left to command the Garisons of Judaea, Vain-glory punished. being desirous to obtain the reputation of valiant men, tooke their forces, and went towards Jamnia; against whom Gorgias, Governor of that place, issued out, and slew two thousand of them; the rest fled to Judaea. The Idumaeans overcome.

Afterwards Judas and his brethren warred against the Idumaeans, took divers of their Cities, and with a great booty returned home with great joy. Antiochus in the meane time being in Persia, heard of a wealthy City called Elymais, in which was a rich Temple of Diana, &c. thither he went, and besieged it, but the inhabitants sallied out, and with great losse drave him from thence, whereupon he returned to Babylon: there also news was brought unto him of the overthrow of his Captains in Judaea, and that the Jews were grown strong; which together with his former defeat, so wrought upon him, that he fell sick, and finding no hope of recovery, he called his most familiar friends to him, and told them that his sicknesse was violent and desperate, and that he was plagued with this grevous affliction, for that he had tor­mented the people of the Jews, destroyed their Temple,Antiochus his horrible death. committed hor­rible sacriledge, and contemned the reverence of God; but now he vowed, that if it would please the Lord to restore him, he would be­come a Jew, and do many great things for the people of God; as also that he would goe through all the known world to declare the power of God. Notwithstanding which, the Lord knowing his hypocrisie continued to plague him after a terrible manner: he had a remedilesse pain in his bowels, and intollerable torments in all his inward parts: His body bred abundance of worms, which continually crawled out of the same: yea, he so rotted above ground, that by reason of the in­tollerable stink, no man could endure to come near him, neither could he himselfe indure the same: and thus this vile person who had former­ly in a proud and insolent manner protested that he would make Jeru­salem a common burying place,Gods judge­mente on Per­secator [...]. and the streets thereof to run with the bloud of Gods people; by Gods just judgement ended his life in extream misery: but before his death, he called Philip one of his chief Captains, and made him governour of his kingdom, requiring him to be very carefull of his son Antiochus.

Then was Antiochus proclaimed King, and sirnamed Eupator:Antiochus Eupa [...]tor. A­bout which time the Garisons, and Apostates that were in the Fortress at Jerusalem, did much mischief to the Jews; for setting unawares up­on those that came to the Temple to worship, and to offer their sacri­fices, they slew them: Hereupon Judas resolved to cut off these Ga­risons, and to that end he assembled all the people, and besieged them, and having made certain Engins, and raised divers Rams, he earnest­ly [Page 14] prosecuted the siege: but divers of those Apostates escaping by night, went to Antiochus, desiring him not to suffer them to perish, who for his fathers sake, had forsaken their Religion, &c. Then did Antiochus send for his Captains, commanding them to raise a mighty Army, which accordingly they did, gathering together a hundred thousand footmen, and twenty thousand horsemen, and thirty two E­lephants; with these Forces he departed out of Antioch, and made Ly­sias Generall of his Army:Bethsura be­sieged. Then did he besiege Bethsura, a strong City, but the inhabitants valiantly resisted him, and sallying out, burned his Engines which he had prepared for battery. The King continuing the siege for a longe time, Judas hearing of it, raised his siege from before the Castle of Jerusalem, and marched towards Antiochus his Army, and when he came neer to the enemies Camp, he lodged his Army in certain streights, called Beth-zacharia.

The King hearing thereof, raised his siege from Bethsura, and march­ed to wards the streight where Judas with his Army was; The King first caused his Elephants to march thorow the streight; about each Elephant were a thousand Footmen, and a hundred Horsemen for his guard, each Elephant carried a Tower on his back, furnished with Archers: the rest of his Forces he caused to march two waies by the mountaines, commanding them with huge shouts and cries to assail their enemies, and to uncover their golden and brazen bucklers, that the reflection thereof might dazle the eies of the Jews; yet was not Judas at all amated, but entertained the Army with a noble courage, slaying about six hnundred of the forlorn hope: But Eleazer, Judas brother, seeing a huge Elephant armed with royall trappings, supposing that the King was upon him, he ran against him with a noble courage, and having slain divers that were about the Elephant, he thrust his sword into the belly of the beast,Eleazer slew, and is slain by an Elephent. so that the Elephant falling upon him, slew him with his weight.

Judas seeing the great strength of his enemies, retired back to Jeru­salem; and Antiochus sent back part of his Army against Bethsura, and with the rest, he marched on towards Jerusalem. The Bethsurites de­spairing of relief, and their provisions failing them, surrendred their City,Bethsura sur­rendred. having the Kings oath that no out-rage should be offered to them, yet he thrust them out of the City and placed a Garison in it. He spent also along time in besieging the Temple at Jerusalem, they within de­fending it gallantly;The Temple besieged. for against every Engine that the King erected, they set up a contrary Engine: Their only want was of victuals, be­cause (it being the seventh year) the Land had not been tilled; where­upon divers of them fled away secretly, so that very few remained for the defence of the Temple. But behold the good providence of God! just then came tidings to Antiochus, A speciall pro­vidence. that Philip coming out of Persia, intended to make himself Lord and Master of the country, Antiochus concluded to give over the siege and to march against Philip; but first he sent an Herauld to Judas, promising them peace, and li­berty to live according to their Religion, which conditions Judas ac­cepting [Page 15] of, took an oath from the King for performance, and so sur­rendred up the Temple. Whereupon Antiochus entred the same, and seeing it so impregnable a pl [...]ce,Perfidiousness. contrary to his oah he commanded his Army to levell the wall that environed it, and then he returned to Antioch, leading away with him Onias, surnamed M [...]nalaus, the High-Priest, whom, by the counsell of Lysias, he put to death,A just judge­ment. because he had advised his father to enforce the Jews to forsake their Religion: A just reward for so wicked a fact.

Antiochus finding that Philip had already conquered much of his country, went straite against him, fought with him, and slew him.

Presently after Demetrius the son of Seleucus took possession of Tripo­lis in Syria, and setting the Diadem upon his own head, he leavied an Army, and invaded the Kingdom of Antiochus. The people general­ly submitted themselves to him, and laying hold of Antiochus and Lysias, they brought them both to Demetrius, Antiochus slain by Demetrius who caused them to be slain.

To this new King, divers Jews (banished for their impiety) toge­ther with Alcimus their High-Priest, resorted, a [...]cusing their Nation,The wickednes of Apostates. and in particular Judas and his brethren for killing their friends, and banishing such as were friends to Demetrius. Demetrius was much mo­ved with these reports, and therefore he sent a greate Army under Bac­chides, a valiant and experienced Captain,Bacchides sent against Judas. with commission to kill Ju­das and his confederates. Bacchides with his Army marched into Ju­dea, sending an Herauld to Judas and his brethren, pretending peace, when he intended to surprize them by subtilty and treachery. But Ju­das seeing that he came with so great an Army, found out his drift, and would not trust him: yet many of the people were deceived with his Proclamation of peace, and therefore submitted to live under his go­vernment, first having received an oath from him, that neither they, nor any of their followers should be endamaged: but when they had committed themselves to him, he falsified his oath,Perjury. Perfidiousness. and slew sixty of them.

Then removing his Army from Jerusalem, he came to the village of Bethzeth, where, apprehending many of the Jews, he slew them all, and commanded the rest in the country to obey Alcimus, with whom he left a part of his Army, and so returned to Antioch unto demetrius.

Alcimus by his feigned and familiar deportment, drew many more of the wicked Jews to joyn with him,Alcimus his subtilty and cruelty. and then he went with his Army thorow the country, and slew all that took part with Judas. Judas per­ceiving that hereby many upright men, and such as feared God were slain; he also with his Army went thorow the Land, and slew all the Apo­states that were of Alcimus his faction. Whereupon Alcimus repaired to Demetrius, and made greivous complaints against Judas; who fearing that if Judas prospered, it would be prejudiciall to his estate,Nicanor sent against Judas he sent Nicanor to make warre against him, and having furnished him with a sufficient Army, he commanded him that he should not spare any one of that Nation.

[Page 16] Nicanor coming to Jerusalem; offered no act of hostility, endea­vouring to entrap Judas by subtilty,His subtility. sending him a peaceable message, wherein he protested that he would do him no injury, and that he came only to express the good affections of Demetrius to the Nation of the Jews.

Judas and his brethren being deceived with this glozing message entertained him and his Army. Nicanor then saluted Judas, but whilest he was conferring with him, he gave a sign to his souldiers to lay hands on him;Judas in dan­ger. but Judas discovering the treason, brake from him, and escaped to his Army. Then did Nicanor resolve to make open war upon him, and bad him battel near to a Burrough called Capar-salama, where he obtained the victory, and constrained Judas to retreat into the Fortress at Jerusalem;Judas forced to retreat. there did Nicanor besiege him for a while, and then retired; at which time certain of the Priests and Elders met him, and having done their reverence, they shewed him those sacrifi­ces which they intended to offer to God for the Kings prosperity; but he blaspheming, threatned them, that if they did not deliver Judas into his hands,Nicanors blasphemy. he would destroy the Temple at his return. Here­upon the Priests wept abundantly, praying unto God to defend the Temple, together with those which called on his Name therein, from the outrage of their enemies.

Nicanor coming neer to Bethoron, received a greate supply of souldi­ers out of Syria. Judas also was about thirty furlongs distant from him not having above a thousand men, yet he exhorted them not to fear the multitude of their enemies, but to set couragiously upon them, expect­ing help from God;A terrible battel. and so encountering with Nicanor, there was a very doubtfull conflict, yet Judas had the upper hand, and slew a great number of the enemies. Nicanor himselfe also fighting valiantly, was slain; whereupon his Army fled: but Judas speedily pursuing, made a great slaughter,Nicanor slain. and by sound of trumpet, giving notice to the neigh­bouring places, the inhabitants thereof betook themselves to their weapons, and meeting those that fled, they slew them, so that no one escaped from this battel, though they were at least nine thousand men.

Then ensued a little peace to the Jews. Shortly after Alcimus the High-priest, intending to beat down an old wall of the Sanctuary, was suddenly striken by God, became speechless, and fell to the ground, and having endured many grievous torments for many dayes,A just judge­ment. he died miserably. Then did the people by a generall consent give his place to Judas: who hearing of the great power and victories of the Romans, sent two of his intimate friends to Rome, to intreate the Romans to be their Al­lies and Confederates,Judas sends to the Romans. and to write to Demetrius to give over his wars against the Jews.

The Embassadors coming to Rome, were intertained by the Senate, and friendship concluded betwixt them, upon these conditions; That none under the Romans should war against the Jews, A league be­tween the Jews and Romans. nor furnish their enemies with Victuals, Ships or Silver: That if any enemies should [Page 17] assail the Jevvs, the Romans should succour them to the uttermost of their povver; that if any made vvar upon the Romans, the Jevvs should succour them; that if the Jevvs vvould add or diminish any thing from this Association, it should be done vvith the common advice of the Romans; and that vvhat should so be ordained, should remain irre­vocable.

Nicanors death, and the discomfiture of his Army being reported to Demetrius, he sent another Army under Bacchides, vvho coming into Judaea, and hearing that Judas vvas encamped at Bethzeth, Bacchides sent [...]gainst Judas twenty thou­sand. he marched against him vvith tvventy thousand footmen, and tvvo thousand horse­men. Judas had not in all above tvvo thousand men, vvho seeing the multitude of Bacchides Army, vvere afraid, so that some, forsaking the Camp, fled avvay, insomuch as there then remained vvith Judas but eight hundred men. His enemies also pressed so upon him, that he had no time to re-assemble his Forces, yet he resolved to fight vvith those eight hundred men, vvhom he exhorted to be of good courage, and to fight valiantly: but they answered, That they were not able to make head against so great an Army, and therefore they adviced him to retire, and stand on his guard, till he had gather­ed more Forces: Judas replied,Judas his reso­lution. God forbid that the Sun should see me turn my back upon the enemies; though I die, and spend my last blood in this battle, yet will I never soil my former worthy actions by an ignominious flight. And so having encouraged his souldiers, he commanded them without apprehension of danger, to bend themselves altogether against the enemy. Bacchides drew out his Army, arranged them in battle, placing his horse-men in the wings, his Archers, and light-armed men in the front, and then the Macedonian Phalanx, and so causing his Trumpets to sound, and his Souldiers to shout, he charged his ene­mies. Judas did the like, and encountred Bacchides, so that there was a most cruel conflict, which continued till Sun-set.A terrible bat­tel.

Judas perceiving that Bacchides, and the flower of his Army fought in the right wing, he chose out the most resolute of his Souldiers, and drew them towards that quarter, and set upon them, brake their squa­dron, and thrusting into the midst of them, he forced them to flie, and pursued them as far as to the mount Aza; but the left wing followed Judas, and so enclosed him on the back part. He seeing himself thus enclosed, resolved with his followers to fight it out to the last. He slew a great number of his enemies, till at last he was so wearied, that [...]he fell to the ground, and was there slain: His souldiers seeing him dead, betook themselves to flight. Simon and Jonathan his brothers, by in­treaty recovered his body, carried it to Modim, Judas slain. where they interred it, all the people weeping divers days for him; and Jonathan his bro­ther succeeded him in the Government.

CHAP. V. The Martyrdom of the Maccabees.

WHilst Antiochus Epiphanes was living, he thrust out Onias the High-Priest from his Office, and put into his room Jason his brother, whereupon Jason promised to pay him yearly three thousand six hundred and sixty Talents of silver. This wicked Jason presently forced all the people to forsake their Religion, and to build Baths: He hindered the defence and building of the Temple. Hereat God was very wroth, and stirred up Antiochus to go to Jerusalem, where he was gallantly entertained by the Jews. Then did he presently make an Edict, That whosoever of the Jews refused to offer Sacrifice to the gods,Antiochus his cruel Edict. he should presently be broken to pieces on the wheel. But those that were godly did little esteem that Edict.

Antiochus perceiving that the rigour of his Edict prevailed little, and that many chose rather to die,Constancy. then to forsake their Religion, he sitting in an eminent place, and calling all the Jews together, caused swines-flesh to be sacrificed on the Altar, and to be offered to every Hebrew to eat. Amongst the multitude thus assembled, there was one Eleazer, a Priest a man that feared God, and one who was very aged, of a reverend countenance,Subtilty. and famous for his vertue; To him Antio­chus said, Be advised by me, holy old man, to avoid those torments which are prepared for the obstinate; preserve thy reverend age, and contemn not the be­nefit of life; take the sacrifice, and eat of the swines-flesh, for no wise man will credit the Jews opinion to refuse that meat which nature hath ordained for mans use, as well as any other: Why should this beast be more abominable then others? &c. Or, suppose your Laws are to be observed, yet will they ex­cuse thee, seeing thou sinnest not voluntarily, but by compulsion? To whom Eleazer answered;Courage. ‘We, O Antiochus, follow not vanity, but the verity of Religion, and fear of torments cannot make us embrace another: but suppose that the Religion left us by our fore-fathers had no firm ground, yet should not torments make me forsake it. Do not esteem it a small matter to eat forbidden meat, and to taste of that which is sacrificed to Idols; for it is a profane thing to touch things that are prophane, and we are taught by our Law to suffer with pati­ence whatsoever, for Gods cause, is inflicted upon us, &c. And there­fore I refuse this profane meat, well knowing what I ought to eat, as warranted by Gods Law, which I have learned to obey, &c. and herein will I persist, though with tyrannous hand thou pluck out mine eyes, or with a sharp knife rip up my entrails. Think not that because I am old, my body is feeble: If I must be sacrificed for Gods sake, thou shalt find me as lusty, and constant as a young man, and most joyfull in torments. Prepare an extraordinary fire, or what else thou pleasest, thou shalt find me more constant in the midst of all [Page 19] torments, then I am now before they come, &c. The chaste, and pure company of Fathers shall receive me into their number, where I shall not fear (O impious King) thy threats, &c.’

Whilst Eleazer spake thus boldly,Eleazer cruelly beaten. the souldiers haled him to be tor­tured, and stripping him naked, they hanged him up, and whipped him: and whilst on either side he was thus beaten, one cryed, Obey the Kings pleasure and command. But this worthy man was not over­come by torment, but suffered as though he had been in a sleep: and fixing his venerable eyes upon Heaven, he knew in whom he believed, and to whom he sacrificed his life, and beholding the flesh on each side of his body rent and torn with stripes, and the bloud issuing out abun­dantly, he admired his own patience, and thanked God the author of it: At last finding his own frailty, scarce able to endure such torments, he fell upon his face, which with stripes was all rent, and torne,His admirable patience. still glo­rifying God, as he did before: Then a souldier, to gratifie the King like a mad man, did spurn, and tread upon him, to encrease his sufferings: but Eleazer, strong in body and minde, like a Champion of the true God, did never shrink at those pains, but by patience overcame the cru­elty of his tormentors; so that his torturers admired that he should be able to bear them: Then the Kinges Officers said, How long wilt thou forbear to obey the King? eat Swines flesh and free thy self from all that thou endurest. Eleazer, though hitherto he had been silent in all his torments, yet could he not hear such profane counsel without answering, where­upon he cryed out; ‘We Hebrews are not so effeminate as to forsake the way of salvation wherein we walk to our old-age,His zeal. neither are we taught for feare of contumely, which will not long endure, to give others an occasion, and example to sin, &c. Wilt thou, O Tyrant, esteem of us if we should yield unto thee? nay, thou mightst justly reprove our inconstancy:’ Then did the souldiers, by the Kings com­mand, cast him into the fire, and poured stinking, and loathsome li­quors into his nostrils, all which he patiently suffered, till he was con­sumed in the flames: Yet when nature began to fail, lifting up his daz­led eyes to Heaven, he said, ‘Thou, O God, art he from whom life, and salvation proceedeth: Behold I die for observing thy Laws: Be mercifull to this thy Nation,His prayer at death. and forsake not them whom hitherto thou hast protected in thy bosom, and under the shadow of thy wings, let my death end all misery, &c.’ and so he joyfully yielded up the ghost.

Antiochus was but more incensed hereby, and therefore he caused seven Children of the Hebrews to be brought to Antioch, who being young, and therefore, as he thought, weak, and unable to endure tor­ments, he presumed that either by perswasion, or fear, he should en­force them to forsake their Religion.

Then he commanded these seven, together with their mother Sala­mona now aged, to be brought before him: They were of excellent beauty, and worthy children of so vertuous a mother. The Tyrant beholding them, with a merry countenance, craftily spake unto them: [Page 20] I wish your good, O admirable young men, do not therefore like mad men resist my commands: Antiochus his subtilty. Avoid not only torments, but death also: I desire not only to exalt you to honour, but to encrease your riches, and possessions: Con­temn therefore your own superstition, and embrace our Religion: If you re­fuse this (as I hope you will not) I will devise all torments, that by a lin­gring, and painfull death, I may consume you: And to terrifie them the more, he caused all sorts of Instruments for torment to be brought forth before them, as Wheels, Rods, Hooks, Racks, Cauldrons, Cages, Gridirons, &c. with Engines to torment the fingers, and hands, as Gauntlets, Auls, Bellows, Brazen-pots, and Frying-pans, &c. Then said he, Obey me, O prudent young men, for if I command that which is a sin, yet do not you offend, being compelled to it.

But these holy young men, inflamed with a divine spirit, con­temned these torments, and despised both threats and flateries, denying to eat of the sacrificed Swines flesh, and saying: ‘Where­fore,The seven bre­threns courage O Tyrant, dost thou persecute us that are innocent? We de­sire to die, and will, till death expels life, firmly keep that which God commanded and Moses taught us: and therefore seek not, O Tyrant to seduce us by protesting thy unfeigned love: Thou lover of in justice, master of cruelty, deviser of iniquity, the pardon thou pro­ferrest is more painfull to us then punishments: We contemn death, and esteem not thy words, our master Eleazer having taught us to de­spise them. Why dost thou expect such pusillanimity in us young men, when of late thou foundest such courage in an old man? Thou canst not know our minds except by tearing our bodies thou searchest them out: We will willingly for our God suffer any thing, and ex­pect Heaven, whilst thou for thy cruelty to innocents, shalt be reser­ved to eternal fire.’

The Tyrant greatly moved herewith, caused them to be beaten with Buls-pizels: first commanding Maccabeus the eldest to be stripped, and stretched out upon a Rack,Maccabeus his torments. and his hands to be bound, and so to be most cruelly beaten, who so wearied his tormentors by sufferring, that they rather desired to give over, then he requested it: Then was he put upon a Wheel, and a weight hanged at his feet, and so stretched round about it, that his sinews and entrails brake, yet all this while he called upon God:His resolute speech. and then said to the Tyrant: ‘O bloudy Tyrant, who persecutest the Majesty of God; I whom thou thus tormentest, am no witch, nor murtherer, but one who dies for observing Gods Law:’ And when the tormentors, overcome with compassion, willed him to submit to the Kinges pleasure, he said; ‘O ye wicked ministers of Tyranny! Your Wheels are not so sharp and cruel, that I there­by will be forced to forsake Heaven, whereon my minde is fixed: Tear my flesh, yea if you please, rost it at the fire: torture each par­cel of my body with severall cruelties, yet you shall not be able to force us young men to impiety.’

His Martyr­dom.As he thus spake, a fire was kindled, & he thus racked on the Wheel, was thrown into it, and by flames was so burned that his bowels ap­peared, [Page 21] yet was his minde unmoved, and in the midst of his torments he cryed thus to his brethren; ‘O beloved brethren, make me your example; despise the alluring baits of this world; obey God rather then this Tyrant,His speech at death. who can if he please humble the proud and migh­ty, and exalt the dejected:’ Then was he taken from the fire; and slain alive; his tongue was pulled out of his head, and he put into a frying pan, and so he departed out of this life, to the admiration of his enemies, and the joy of his mother, and brethren.

Then was the second brother, called Aber, haled by the souldiers; and the Tyrant shewed him all those instruments of torment, and as­ked him if he would eat of the sacrifice? which he, denying to do,Abers tor­ments. his hands were bound with iron chains, and being hanged up thereby, the skin of his body was slain from the crown of his head to his knees, so that the entrails in his brest were seen: Then was he cast to a cruel Libard, greedily thirsting after blood, but the beast smelling at him,Or Leopard. forgat his cruelty, and went from him, without doing him any harm: This increased the Tyrants rage, and Aber by his torments grew more constant, crying aloud, ‘O how pleasant is that death to me, which is caused by all sorts of torments for Gods sake! yea,H [...]s speech at death. the more plea­sant, because I know I shall be rewarded in heaven; Let these tor­ments, O Tyrant, satisfie thy cruelty, for my pain is not increased by them, but my pleasure, as thou shalt find by my patience in these sufferings; I am more willing to suffer, then thou to punish, yet my pain is less in suffering, then thine by inflicting: I am tor­mented for keeping the Law, thou by Gods Justice shalt be banished from thy Regal seat, yea, eternal torments are prepared for thee, which neither thy prophane mind is able to endure, nor thy power to decline, &c.’ And so shortly after he yielded up his soul to God.

Then Machir the third son was brought, whom all pitied,Machir brought forth. and ex­horted by his brothers examples to forsake his opinion, and so decline the punishment; but he being angry at such Counsel, replied, ‘One Father begat us, one Mother bore us, one Master instructed us,His courage. &c. Therefore no longer prolong the time in vain; I came to suffer, not to speak, use all the Tyranny that possibly you can against my body yet have you no power over my soul.’ This so moved the Tyrant, that he devised new torments beyond the reach of humane wit; and com­manding a globe to be brought, he caused him to be tied about it in such sort, that all his bones were put out of joint,His torments. hanging one from another in a most pitifull manner; yet was the holy Martyr nothing dismaid; then the skin of his head and face was pulled off, and then was he put upon the wheel, but he could be racked no worse, for all his bones were dislocated before; the blood issuing from him abun­dantly, he said, ‘We, O Tyrant, endure this torment for the love of God, and thou the Author of such cruelty,His speech at death. shalt be punished with everlasting pain;’ Then was his tongue cut out, and he being put in­to a fiery frying pan, resigned his spirit unto God.

Next followed Judas the fourth brother, whom all the people per­swaded [Page 22] to obey the King:Judas his cou­rage. But he said, ‘Your fire shall not separate me from the Law of God, nor from my brethren; To thee, O Tyrant, I denounce destruction, but to such as believe, salvation: Try me thou cruel wretch, and see if God will not stand by me, as he did by my three brethren now in glory, &c.’ The cruel Tyrant hearing this, was so inraged, that he leaped down from his chaire to torment this Martyr himselfe;His torments. He commanded also his tongue to be cut out, to whom Judas said, ‘Thy cruelty will nothing avail thee, our God needs not by voice to be awaked,His speech at death. &c. he heareth such as call upon him with their hearts, and know's our thoughts afar off, &c. Cut out my tongue if thou please, would thou wouldst so sanctifie all the parts of my body, &c. and think not that thou shalt long escape un­punished:’ Then was his tongue cut out, and he bound to a stake, was beaten with ropes ends, which torments he bore with admirable pati­ence: After which he was put upon the wheel, where he ended his life, and went to the rest of his brethren.

Then spake Achas the fift brother, ‘Behold, O Tyrant, I come to be punished before thou commandest me,Achas his cou­rage. therefore hope not to alter his minde that desireth to be tormented: The bloud of my innocent brethren hath condemned thee to hell, I shall make up the fift, that by it thy torments may be increased: What offence have we com­mitted that thou thus ragest against us? &c. All that thou canst al­ledge against us is, that we honour God and live in obedience to his Laws, and therefore we esteem not punishment, which is an honour to us; though no part of us be left untormented, yet we shall be the more rewarded by God.’ Then at the command of the Kings the executioner cast him into a brazen pot,His torments. where he was prest down with his head to his feet, and afterwards he sufferred all the torments inflicted on his brethren, but he was so far from being discouraged, that suddenly starting up,His speech at death. he said, ‘Cruel Tyrant, how great bene­fits dost thou (though against thy will) bestow upon us! yea the more thou ragest, the more acceptable to God shalt thou make us; therefore I shall be sorry if thou shewest me any mercy: by this tem­porall death, I shall go to everlasting life.’ And having thus finished his sufferings, he died.

Then was Areth the sixt brother brought, to whom the Tyrant proferred the choise of honour,Areth his cou­rage. or punishment; But he being grieved at this profer, said, ‘O Tyrant, though I be younger in years then my bre­thren, yet the constancy of my minde is not inferiour; as we have lived, so we will die together in the fear of God: Hasten therefore thy torments, and what time thou wouldest spend in exhorting me, spend it in devising torments for me.’ Whereupon Antiochus in a rage, commanded him to be tied to a pillar with his head downwards: Then caused he a fire to be made at such a distance,His torments. as might not burn, but rost him: Then he made them prick him with awles, that the heat might pierce the sorer: In these torments much bloud, like froth, gathered about his head and face;His speech at death. yet said he, ‘O noble fight! O valiant [Page 23] warre! O strife between piety and impiety! My brethren have past through their Agonies, whose crown of Martyrdom is the punish­ment of their Persecutors. I willingly follow them, that as by blood I am conjoyned to them, so by death I may not be separated from them. Devise, O Tyrant, some new torment, for I have overcome these already: O Master of cruelty, enemy of piety, and persecu­tor of Justice! we young men have conquered thy power, thy fire is cold, and heateth not: thy weapons are bended, and blunted in our bodies; our God giveth us more courage to suffer, then thou hast to punish, &c.’ As he thus spake, they pulled out his tongue with an hot pair of tongs, and lastly frying him in a frying pan, he gave up the ghost.

There being now only the youngest brother left, called Jacob, he,Jacob brought forth. Antiochus his subtilty. presenting himself before the Tyrant, moved him to some compassion, wherefore he called the Child to him, and taking him aside by the hand, he said, By the example of thy brethren thou seest what to expect if thou disobeyest me; therefore deliver thy self from these torments, and I will give thee what honour my Kingdom can afford: thou shalt be a Ruler, Gene­rall of my Army, my Counceller &c. But when this prevailed not, he called his mother, who coming, and standing by her son, the Tyrant said to her, O worthy woman, where now are all thy Children? yet thou hast one remaining; advise him therefore not to ruine himself, and to leave thee childless by his obstinacy, &c. The mother bowing her self to the King, said to her child in Hebrew, that she might not be understood of others, ‘Pity and comfort thy sorrowfull mother, O my son,His mother encourageth him. who bare thee nine moneths in my womb, gave thee suck with my brests three years, and with great care have brought thee up hitherto. I pray thee, dear son, consider the heavens and earth, and remember that God created them all of nothing, &c, fear not therefore these pains and torments, but imitate thy brethren, and contemn death, that in the day of mercy I may receive thee with thy brethren again in heaven.’ Then did he desire to be unbound, which being granted, he immediately ran to the torments,His noble cou­rage. and coming where was a frying pan red hot, he said to the King; ‘Cruel Tyrant, I now know thee, not only to have been cruel to my brethren, but even cruelty it self. Wretch that thou art, who gave thee these purple robes? who ex­alted thee to thy Kingdom? Even he whom thou in us dost perse­cute, whose servants thou tormentest and killest, for which thy self shalt suffer eternal torments; though thou art above others, yet he that made other men, made thee also of the same nature, for all are born, and must die alike. He that kils another, sheweth that he himself may be killed; thou tearest and tormentest thine own Image all in vain? In thy fury thou killest him, whom God created like thy self, &c. thou pullest out our tongues, tearest our bodies with flesh-hooks, and consumest us with fire; but they that have already suffered, have received everlasting joyes, and everlasting punishments attend thee. Think not that I expect any favour, I will follow my [Page 24] brethren, and remain constant in keeping Gods Law.’ The Tyrant herewith inraged, caused him to be tormented; but his mother com­forted him, and with her kind hands held his head, when through violence of the torturers,His torments. the blood issued out of his mouth, nose, and privy parts; the tormentors not ceasing till his life was almost spent; but then giving over, God gave him strength to recover, and to endure more then any of his brethren had done. At last his hands and arms being cut off, with his eyes lift up to heaven, he cryed, ‘O Lord. His last words. Adonai. be mercifull unto me, and receive me into the company of my bre­thren. &c.’ Then was his tongue pulled out, and he of his own accord going into the fiery frying pan, to the great admirarion of Antiochus, died.

Salamona's zeal.The mother seeing all her Children dead, was inflamed with a holy zeal to suffer Martyrdom also; and despising the Tyrants threats, she offered her motherly brest to those torments which her Children had suffered before her. Indeed herein she excelled them all, in that she had suffered seven painfull deaths, before she came to suffer in her own person, and feared in every one of them, lest she should have been overcome. She alone with dry eyes did look upon them whilst they were torn in pieces, yea, she exhorted them thereunto, rejoycing to see one torn with flesh-hooks, another racked upon the wheel, a third bound and beaten, a fourth burned, and yet she exhorted the rest not to be terrified thereby; and though her grief in beholding their torments was greater then that which she had in child-birth, yet did she frame a chearfull countenance, as if it had been one triumphing, wishing ra­ther the torments of their bodies then of their souls; for she knew that nothing was more frail then our lives, which are often taken away by Agues, Fluxes, and a thousand other ways. Therefore when they were first apprehended, she thus exhorted them in the Hebrew tongue, ‘O my most dear and loving Children,Her speech to her Children. let us hasten to that Agony which may credit our profession, and be rewarded by God with eter­nal life. Let us fearlesly present our bodies to those torments which aged Eleazer endured. Let us call to mind our father Abraham, who having but one only son▪ willingly sacrificed him at Gods com­mand, and feared not to bring him to the Altar, whom with many prayers he had obtained in his old age. Remember Daniel, the three Children, &c.’ Antiochus being enraged against her, caused her to be stripped naked,Her torments and death. hanged up by the hands, and cruelly whipt: then were her dugs and paps pulled off, and her self put into the red hot frying pan; where lifting up her eyes and hands to heaven, in the midst of her prayers she yielded up her chast soul unto God. But God suffered not the cruel Tyrant to escape unpunished, for in his wars against the Persians, See more of this before. the Lord struck him with madness, his intrals were devoured with worms, and stinking like a Carrion, in the extremity of his tor­ments he gave up the ghost.

Concerning this Antiochus, Daniel, chap. 8.9, 10. &c. saw in the vi­sion, that there came forth a little horn, which waxed exceeding great to­wards [Page 25] the south, and towards the East, and towards the pleasant Land, and it waxeth great even towards the host of heaven, and it cast down some of the host, and of the stars to the ground, and stamped upon them: Yea, he magnified himself even to the Prince of the host, and by him the daily sa­crifice was taken away, and the place of the Sanctuary was cast down. And an host was given him against the daily Sacrifice by reason of transgression, and it cast down the truth to the ground, and it practised and prospered. Which afterwards is thus interpreted by the Angel unto Daniel, verse 23. &c. In the latter time of their Kingdom, when the Transgressors are come to the full, a King of fiery countenance, and understanding dark sen­tences shall stand up, and his power shall be mighty, but not by his own power, and he shall destroy wonderfully, and shall prosper, and practise, and shall destroy the mighty and holy people: And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand, and he shall magnifie himself in his heart, and by peace shall destroy many: He shall also stand up against the Prince of Princes, but he shall he broken without hand.

Collected out of Josephus, and the Books of the Maccabees.

Here place the first Figure.

CHAP. VI. The Persecution of the Church from Christs time to our present Age; and first of those mentioned in the New Testament

HErod the great, hearing by the wise men of one that was born King of the Jews, and being informed by the chief Priests and the Scribes, that the place of his birth should be Bethlehem of Judah, Mat. 2.2, 5, 16. he sent forth souldiers, and slew all the Children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, hoping thereby to have destroyed Christ: for which cruel fact the Lord gave him over to such a spirit of phrensie, that he slew his own wife, his Children,Gods Judge­ment on Perse­cutors. and nearest kins-folks, and familiar friends. And shortly af­ter Gods heavy Judgement fell upon him by a grievous sickness, which was a slow and slack fire in his inward parts; and withal, he had a gree­dy appetite after food, and yet nothing sufficed him; he had also a rot­ting in his Bowels, and a greivous flux in his fundament; a moist and running humour about his feet,Herods misera­ble death. and the like malady vexed him about his bladder; his privy members putrified, engendring abundance of worms which continually swarmed out. He had a short and stinking breath, with a great pain in breathing; and through all the parts of his body such a violent cramp, as humane strength was not able to endure. Yet longing after life, he sent for Physitians from all parts, by whose advice he went to the hot bathes of Calliroe; but finding no ease there­by, his torments still encreasing, he sought to lay violent hands upon himself, if he had not been prevented by his friends, and so in extream misery, he ended his wretched life.

Then Herod the less having married the daughter of Aretas, King of Arabia, put her away, and took Herodias, who had forsaken her husband Philip, brother to Herod; for which incestuous and adulte­rous marriage, John Baptist plainly reproved him; whereupon at the in­stigation of Herodias, John Baptist behe [...]ded. Mat. 14.10. Herod first imprisoned him, and afterwards cut off his head: but the Lord left not this murther long unpunished, for Aretas raising an Army against Herod, for that ignominious dealing with his daughter, in a pitched battel wholly overthrew him, and cut off all his hoast,Gods Judge­ments on Herod for it. not longe after Herod falling into disgrace with the Roman Emperour, he, with his incestuous Herodias were banished to Vienna in France, Caius Caligula. where they ended their wretched lives with much shame and misery.

After the ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ, Peter and John, having [Page 27] cured a man that was born lame, and preaching Jesus to the people, upon that occasion they were apprehended, and cast into prison by the Priests and Captain of the Temple, who the next day,Act. 4.1, 17. having ex­amined them, threatned to punish them, if they spake any more in that name, and so dismissed them. Yet afterwards the high-Priests and the Sadduces again laid hands on the Apostles, and cast them into the common prison; but in the night time the Angel of the Lord opened the prison doors, and released them, Ast. 5.18, 19. The next day, as they were preaching to the people, they were again apprehended,The Apostles beaten. and carried before the Counsel, ver. 26, 27. at whose command they were beaten, and so dismissed, ver, 40.

Then were false witnesses suborned against Steven, who accused him for speaking blasphemous words against Moses, and against God, Act. 6.11. for which being apprehended and brought before the Coun­cel, he was there condemned, led out of the City, and stoned to death,Steven stoned. chap. 7.58.

After this there was a general persecution raised up against the Church of Christ in Jerusalem, whereby all the faithfull were scat­tered abroad throughout the Regions of Judea and Samaria, except the Apostles, chap. 8.1. Saul also made great havock of the Church, entring into every house, haling both men and women, and committing them to prison, verse 3.

Then Saul, after his Conversion, preaching Christ boldly, the en­raged Jews took Counsel, and lay in wait to kill him,Paul persecut­ed. watching the Gates of Damascus, where he then was, both day and night; but the Disciples took him by night, and let him down over the wall in a bas­ket, whereby he escaped, Act. 9.23, &c.

Then rose up a third Herod, called also Agrippa, who, not taking warning by his predecessors calamities, fell to persecuting the Church of Christ, and sending for James, the brother of John, before him, he condemned him to be beheaded: Concerning whom Clemens reports,Act. 12.1, 2. that he which drew James before the Tribunal seat, when he saw him so cheerfully embracing the sentence of death, was exceedingly mo­ved therewith, and voluntarily confessed himself to be a Christian, and so was condemned to be beheaded with him:A Persecutor converted. As they went in the way to execution, he requested the Apostle James to pardon him, who after a little pause, turning to him, said, Peace be unto thee; and kissed him, and so they were beheaded both together. Herod seeing that the death of James pleased the Jews, he took Peter also,James behead­ed. and delivered him to four quaternions of souldiers to keep him in prison, intending after the passover to put him to death; But the night before he should suffer, as he was sleeping, bound with two chains to tvvo souldiers, and the Keepers watching before the prison doors, an Angel came and awaked him, causing his chains to fall off, and so going before him, he led him out of prison, causing the iron gate to open to them, and having brought him out of danger, left him. But this cruel persecu­ting Herod scaped no better then his Predecessors had done,Peter escapeth death. for being [Page 28] arraied in glistering and royal apparel, and sitting upon his Throne, he made an Oration to his people, who like flattering Court Parasites, gave a shout, saying, It is the voice of a God, and not of a man: Where­upon the Angel of the Lord immediately smote him,Gods Judge­ment on Herod and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost, verse 21, &c. in the fifty fourth year of his age, and the seventh of his reign, and under Claudius Caesar.

Then the wicked Jews stirred up the Gentiles against Paul and Bar­nabas at Iconium, Paul and Bar­nabas persecut­ed. so that being in danger to be stoned to death, they fled into Lycaonia, Act. 14.2, 5▪ 6.

Again at Ly [...]tra they stirred up the Gentiles against them, where­upon Paul was stoned and drawn out of the City,Paul stoned. and left for dead, but it pleased God that he revived, and so escaped to Derbe, ver. 19.20.

Afterwards Paul and Silas, for casting a spirit of divination out of a Damosel at Philippi, Paul and Silas whipt. were dragged before the Rulers, who caused them to be whipt, and cast into prison. But the Magistrates after­wards hearing that they were Romans, were much afraid, as having done more then they could answer, and therefore they came to them, released them out of prison, and besought them to depart out of their City, Act. 16.2 [...], 39.

Presently after at Thessalonica, the Jews again stirred up the people against Paul and Silas, Paul and Silas again persecut­ed. and raising up an uproar, they sought for them in the house of Jason, and not meeting with them there, they drew forth Jason himself, and some brethren before the Rulers, who giving secu­rity for their forth-coming,Act. 17.5, 13, 14. were dismissed. Yet these wretched Jews followed Paul to Berea also, and there stirred up a persecution against him, whereby he was forced to depart. At Corinth also they made an insurrection, caught Paul, and brought him before Gallio, Deputy of Achaia, Sosthenes beaten. and when he would be a Judge of no such matters, they took Sosthenes the chief Ruler of the Synagogue, and beat him before the Judgement seat, Acts 18.12, 17.

Afterwards at Ephesus, Demetrius that made silver shrines for Diana, raised an uproar, and having caught Caius and Aristarchus, Pauls companions, they with them rushed into the Theatre; but this tumult being allayed by the wisdom of the Town-Clark, Paul hasted away into Macedonia, cap. 19.29, &c. Paul at last returning to Jerusalem, the Asian Jews finding him in the Temple, stirred up all the people, and laid hands on him; but as they were about to kill him, he was rescued by the chief Captain of the Romans, chap. 21.31, 32. Then being brought forth before the Counsel of the Jews, he was first smitten by the Command of the High-Priest, chap. 23.2. And afterwards being in danger of being pulled to pieces,Paul in danger he was again rescued by the Captain, ver. 10. Then above forty of those desperate Jevvs, bound themselves under a curse, that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed him, ver. 12, 13. Hereupon he is sent to Faelix at Caesarea, who kept him in prison till his Accusers came, ver. 24, 35. Then being accused by Tertullus, Acts 24.27. he clears himself; yet because he vvould not bribe Faelix, he [Page 29] is kept prisoner still. Festus succeeding Faelix, the Jews importune him also for sentence against Paul, or that he might be sent for to Je­rusalem, laying wait in the way to kill him, chap. 25.3. but when that was denied them, they went to Cesarea to accuse him there, whereupon he is forced to appeal to Caesar, ver. 11. Then he was sent to Rome, and there committed Prisoner to the Captain of the Guard, chap. 28.16. where he continued prisoner at large for two years, and then being re­leased, he visited the Churches of Greece and Asia. Afterwads he preached in Spain and France, and at last returning into Italy, he was again apprehended, and imprisoned at Rome, Pauls Martyr­dom. where also he suffered Martyrdom, as afterwards you shall hear.

The Jews being much displeased that they could not reak their teen upon Paul, turn themselves against James the brother of Christ: him therefore they bring, and set them in the midst of them, requiring him publickly to renounce the faith of Christ: but he on the contrary made a bold and open confession of Jesus to be the Son of God, and the Saviour of the world. Then did they set him upon a Pinacle of the Temple, again requiring him in the audience of all the people, to tell them which is the way of Jesus crucified; to whom he answered, Why ask you me of Jesus the son of man, when as he sits at the right hand of God in Heaven, and shall again come in the clouds of the air? this so en­raged the Scribes and Pharisees, that they threw him down head-long; but he not being dead with the fall, gat upon his knees, and said, Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do: Then one taking a Fullers Club, struck him on the head, and brained him.The Martyr­dom of James.

This James was sirnamed Justus, of whom Aegesippus writes, that his knees were as hard as Camels knees,His constancy in prayer. by reason of his continual kneeling in prayer. But shortly after his death, Vespasian came into Judea, and subdued the Jews: and his son Titus destroyed Jerusalem, and the Temple.

Andrew the brother of Peter, preached the Gospel to the Scythians, Andrews mar­tyrdom. Sogdians, and Aethiopians, and was at last crucified by Aegeas, King of Edessa.

Philip preached the Gospel in Phrygia, and at last was crucified at Hierapolis. Philips Mar­tyrdom.

Bartholemew preached to the Indians, and (as some say) was beaten with Cudgels to death: or as others, he was flaid alive,Bartholemew. and then be­headed.

Thomas preached unto the Parthians, Medes and Persians, &c, and in Indian he was slain with a dart.Thomas.

Mathew preached to the Aethiopians, and at last by the command of the King, was ran thorow with a sword.Matthew.

Simon Zelotes preached in Mauritania and Africk, and at length was crucified under Traian, being above 112 years old.Simon Zel.

Judas the brother of James preached to the Edesseans, and at last was slain by the command of the King.Judas.

Matthias preached first in Macedonia, Matthias. and afterwards coming into [Page 30] Judea, he was by the Jews first stoned, and then beheaded.

Mark the Evangelist preached in Alexandria, and the neighbouring Regions,Mark. and afterwards was burnt by the furious Idolaters.

Nicanor. Nicanor, one of the Deacons, was martyred, together with two thou­sand other faithful Christians.

CHAP. VII. The First Primitive Persecution which began An. Christi, 67.

THis first Persecution was begun by Domitius Nero, the sixt Emperour, Anno 67. or thereabouts: the occasion whereof was this;Quinquennium Neronis. Nero having passed over the first five years of his reign somewhat plausibly, he then began to fall to all manner of prodigious impieties: and amongst other wicked designs, he had a great desire to consume the stately im­perial City of Rome with fire; pronouncing King Priamus an happy man, because he beheld the end of his Kingdom and Countrey toge­ther; yea, said he, let not all be ruined when I am dead, but whilst I am yet a­live: Nero sets Rome on fire. and for the effecting of this villany, he sent divers to kindle the fire in sundry places; yea, some of his own bed-chamber were seen to carry Flax, Toe, Torches, &c. to further it: and when any attempted to quench it, they were threatned for it; others openly hurled fire­brands, crying, They knew what they did, there was one would bear them out. This fire first began amongst the Oyl-men and Drugsters; The night-watch and Praetorian guards did openly cherish it; and when it was throughly kindled, Nero went up to the top of Maecenas Tow­er, which over-looked the whole City, where he fed himself with the sight of infinite burnings, and sang to his harp, the burning of Troy.

The Circus burnt down.Amongst other stately buildings that were burned down, the Circus, or race-yard was one, being about half a mile in length, of an oval [Page 31] form, with rows of seats one above another, capable to receive at least a hundred and fifty thousand Spectators without uncivil shouldrings: but the particulars were innumerable, the damage inestimable; be­sides which, many thousands of people perished; the flame and smoak smothered some, the weight of ruins crusht others, the fire consumed others; others threw themselves into the fire out of sorrow and de­spair, and villains slew many.

But Nero finding that this fire, which continued burning nine dayes, brought a great Odium upon him; to excuse himself, he transferred the fault upon the Christians, as if out of malice they had done it,Nero charged it upon the Chri­stians. and thereupon he raised this first persecution against them. For there was at this present a flourishing Church of Christians in Rome, even before St. Paul's arrival there,Raiseth the first Persecuti­on. and Nero's own Court was secretly gar­nished and enriched with some of those Diamons, whose salutations the Apostle remembers in his Epistle to the Philippians. But whilst Nero with their blood, sought to quench and cover his own infamy, he pro­cured to himself new envy; whilst many that abhorred Christians for their Religion, commiserated their sufferings as undeserved. Some he caused to be sewed up in the skins of wild beasts, and then worried them to death with dogs: some he crucified, others he burnt in publick,Several kinds of torments. to furnish his evening sports with Bonefires. Many he caused to be packed up in paper stiffened in molten wax, with a coat of sear-cloth about their bodies, bound upright to Axletrees, many of which were pitcht in the ground, and so set on fire at the bottom, to maintain light for Nero's night-sports in his gardens. Some of them were gored in length upon stakes, the one end fastened in the earth, the other thrust into their fundaments, and coming out at their mouths.

Nor did this Persecution rage in Rome alone, but it was extended generally over the whole Empire,Beastly cruel­ty. insomuch that a man might then have seen Cities lie full of mens bodies, the old lying there together with the young, and the dead bodies of women cast out naked in the open streets, without all reverence of their sex. Yea his rage and malice was so great, that he endeavoured to have rooted out the very name of Christians in all places. Whereupon Tertullian said, That it could be no ordinary goodness which Nero condemned; and, saith he, We glory on the behalf of our sufferings, that they had such a dedicator as he:Tertullians speech. but this great Persecution, like a blast, did spread the Religion that it blew, and ha­ving continued four years from the first rising, is expired in two most shining blazes, viz. in the Martyrdom of the two great Apostles Peter and Paul: Peter was crucified with his head down-wards, which manner of death himself made choice of, and whilst he thus hung up­on the Cross, he saw his wife going to her Martyrdom, whereupon he much rejoyced; and calling her by her name, he bad her remember the Lord Jesus Christ. At the same time, also Paul, before Nero, made a confession of his faith, and of the Doctrine which he taught;Peter and Paul martyred. where­upon he was condemned to be beheaded, and the Emperor sent two of his Esquires, Ferega and Parthemius, to bring him word of his death: [Page 32] they coming to Paul, heard him instruct the people, and thereupon desired him to pray for them that they might believe; who told them, that shortly after they should believe and be baptized: then the soul­diers led him out of the City to the place of execution, where he prayed, and then gave his neck to the sword, and so was beheaded. This was done in the fourteenth, which was the last year of Nero.

CHAP. VIII. The second Primitive Persecution, which began Anno 96.

AFter the death of Nero, there succeeded, first Vespasian, and then his son Titus in the Empire, under both whom the Church had rest, but Titus associating to himself his brother Flavius Domitian in the Government of the Empire; This wicked Monster, first slew his brother, and then raised the second persecution against the Church of Christ.Domitians cha­racter. His pride was so great, that he commanded himself to be worshiped as God; and that Ima [...]es of gold and silver should be set up for his honour in the Capitoll. His cruelty was unmeasurable. The chiefest Nobles of the Roman Senators, either upon envy, or for their goods,He destroyes Davids seed. he caused to be put to death. Having also heard some rumors of Christs Kingdom, he was afraid, as Herod had been before him; and thereupon commanded all of the linage of David to be sought out and slain; At last two poor Christians that came of Judas, the brother of Christ according to the flesh, were brought before Domitian, and accused to be of the Tribe of Juda, and of the line of David: Then did the Emperour demand of them what stock of money and possessi­ons they had; To whom they answered, that they two had not above thirty nine Acres of land, out of which they payed Tribute, and re­lieved themselves by their labour and industry, withal shewing him their hard and brawny hands, by reason of their labour. Then did he ask them of Christ, and of his Kingdom; to whom they answered, that Christs Kingdom was not of this world, but spiritual and celestial; and that he would come at the last day to judge the quick and the dead. Hereupon he despised them as simple and contemptible persons, and so dismissed them. He punished an infinite company of Christians that were famous in the Church, with exile, and loss of their sub­stance. Under this persecution it was that St. John, the beloved Disci­ple,St. John put in­to boiling oyl. Banished into Patmos. was first put into a vessel of boiling oyl, and coming safe without hurt, out of the same, he was then banished into the Isle of Patmos, Anno 97. where he continued till after the death of Domitian, but was [Page 33] released under Pertinax: At which time he returned to Ephesus, where he lived till he was a hundred and twenty years old. During his abode there, he was requested to repaire to some place not farre off, to order their Ecclesiasticall affairs; and being in a certain City, he beheld in the Congregation a young man, mighty of body,An excellent story [...]f a young man. of a beautifull coun­tenance, and fervent minde; whereupon calling the chief Bishop unto him, he said, I commend this man unto thee with great diligence, in the witness here of Christ and of the Church. The Bishop having received this charge, and promised his faithfull diligence therein, John spake the like words to him the second time also, after which he returned unto Ephesus. The Bishop having received this young man thus com­mitted to his charge, brought him home, kept, nourished, instructed and Baptized him; and the young man so profited under him, that at last he was made the Pastor of a Congregation. But having by this means more liberty then before, some of his old companions began to resort unto him; who first drew him forth to sumptuous and riotous banquets; then inticed him to go abroad with them in the nights to rob and steal, and to much other wickedness. And he being of a good wit, and stout courage, ran like an unbridled horse to all manner of disorders and outrage: And associating to himself many loose and dissolute companions, he became their Head and Captain, in com­mitting all kindes of murther and felonies. Not long after, upon some urgent occasions, St John was again sent for into those parts, where having decided those controversies, and dispatched those busi­nesses for which he came, meeting with the afore-mentioned Bishop, he required of him the pledge, which before Christ and the Congre­gation he had committed to his custody. The Bishop herewith ama­zed, supposing that he meant it of some money committed to him, which yet he had not received, not daring to contradict the Apostle, he thereupon stood mute: Then John perceiving that he was not un­derstood, said, The young man, and the soul of our brother committed to your custody, I do require. Whereupon the Bishop with many tears said, He is dead: To whom John replyed, How, and by what death? The Bishop answered, He is dead to God, for he is become a wicked and vicious man, and a thief, and now he doth frequent these mountains, with a company of thieves and villains like himself, &c. The Apostle, rending his garments with a great lamentation, said, I left a good keeper of my brothers soul; get me an horse and guide presently; which being done, he went strait to the mountains, and was no sooner come thither, but he was taken by the thieves that watched for their prey, to whom he said, I came hither for this cause, Lead me to your Captain: and so being brought before him, the Captain all armed, looked fiercely upon him, and soon coming to the knowledge of him, he was striken with such shame and confusion, that he began to flie, but the old man followed him as fast as he could, crying, My son why dost thou flie from thy fa­ther? an armed man from one naked? a young man from an old man? Have pity upon me my son: and feare not, there is yet hope of salvation, I will an­swer [Page 34] for thee to Christ, I will die for thee if need be, as Christ died for us, I will give my life for thee; Believe me, Christ hath sent me. He hearing these things, first as in a maze, stood still, lost his courage, cast down his weapons, then trembled, and vvept bitterly, and coming to the old man, he embraced him with many tears, only his right hand he kept hid and covered. Then the Apostle, after he had promised and assured him that he should obtain pardon of our Saviour, falling upon his knees, he prayed for him, kissing his murthering right hand, vvhich for shame he durst not shevv before, and then brought him back to the Congregation, where he fasted and prayed continually for him, comforted and confirmed him with many Scripture-promises, and left him not, till he had restored him to his former Office, and made him a great example of Gods Mercy to repentant sinners.

Sim [...]on crucifi­ed.In this Persecution Simeon Bishop of Jerusalem, after many torments, was crucified to death: and an innumerable company of Mar­tyrs suffered for the like testimony of the Lord Jesus, amongst whom vvas Flavia, Flavia banish­ed. the daughter of Flavius Clemens, a Roman Senator and Consul, vvho amongst many others vvas banished into the Isle of Pontia.

A cruel death.This Lavv also vvas made by the Roman Senate, Non debere demitti Christianos, qui semel ad tribunal venissent, nisi propositum mutent, that Christians should not be let go, that vvere once brought before the Tribunal seat, except they renounced their Religion. Yea, that vvhich stirred up the Emperor more to persecute the Christians, vvere those abominable lies, and malicious slanders raised against them by the Heathen Idolaters, as that they were a people that lived in incest, that in their nightly meetings,Christians slandered. putting out the Candles, they ran together in all filthy manner; that they killed their ovvn Children, and used to eat mans flesh: that they vvere seditious and rebellious, and refused to svvear by the fortune of Caesar;Charged with Sedition and Rebellion; and the causers of all publick Calamities. Christianos ad Leones. and vvould not adore his Image in the Market place, and in brief, that they were pernicious to the Roman Empire: yea, whensoever any thing happened amiss to the City of Rome, or to her Provinces, either by famine, pestilence, Earth-quakes, Wars, unseasonable Weather, &c. it vvas presently imputed to the Christians. Besides, also there vvere a number of vvicked Promoters and Accusers, that for lucre's sake, to have the possessions of the Chri­stians, accused and persecuted them to the death. Also vvhen the Christians vvere brought before the Magistrates, they gave them an Oath,The Oath ex officio. requiring them to declare the truth, vvhether they vvere Christi­ans or no, and if they confessed; then by the Lavv, sentence of death vvas passed against them. Yet vvere not these Tyrants content by death to destroy their bodies, but the kinds of death vvere divers and horrible; vvhatsoever the cruelty of mans vvitty and vvicked invention could de­vise for the punishment of mans body, vvas practised against the poor Saints of God;Variety of tor­ments. Imprisonments, Stripes, Scourgings, Rackings, Tear­ings, Stoning▪ plates of iron burning hot, laid to the tenderest parts of their bodies, deep Dungeons, strangling in Prisons, the teeth of [Page 35] wild Beasts, Gridirons, Gibbits and Gallows, Tossings upon the Horns of Bulls, &c. And when they were thus killed, their bodies were laid on heaps, and dogs left to keep them, that none might come to bury them;Burial denied them. neither could any prayer or entreaty obtain leave that they might be interred. Notwithstanding all which horrible punish­ments, the Church of Christ daily increased, being deeply rooted in the Doctrine of the Apostles and Apostolical men, and watered plen­teously with the blood of the Saints.

Also in this persecution, Protasius and Gervasius were martyred at Millaine. Timothy was stoned to death at Ephesus, Protasius. Ger­vasius. Timothy and Dionysius mar­tyred. by the Worship­pers of Diana. Dionysius Areopagita was slain with the sword at Paris, &c.

CHAP. IX. The third Primitive Persecution, which began Anno Christi, 108.

DOmitian being slain by some of his own servants, Nerva succeeded him, who was a good and mercifull man, stayed the persecution against the Christians, called them home from banishment, so that the Church enjoyed peace in his time, but he reigning only thirteen moneths, Trajan a Spaniard succeeded him,Trajans perse­cution. who in the tenth year of his reign, raised the third persecution against the Church, which was far more cruel then either of the former; inasmuch as Plinius Secun­dus, an heathen Philosopher,Pliny writes in the Christians behalf. seeing the lamentabte slaughter of the Christians, moved with pity, he wrote to Trajan concerning the same; that whereas there were many thousands of them daily put to death, there were none of them which did any thing contrary to the Roman Laws worthy of persecution, saving that they used to gather together in the morning before day, and sing Hymns to a certain God that they vvorshipped, called Christ; in other things they were godly and honest; and for proof hereof, saith he, I caused two Maidens to be laid on the rack, and with torments to be examined about the same; but finding nothing in them but only lewd and immoderate superstition, I resolved to surcease further en­quiry, till I received further instructions from you about this matter. Christianity accounted su­perstition. &c. Trajan having read this Epistle; returned answer, that it was his mind, that the Christians should not be sought after, but if they were brought and convicted, that then they should suffer execution:Tertullians speech. whereof Ter­tullian, speaking, saith, O confused sentence! He would not have them sought for as men innocent, and yet would have them punished as men guilty: Now though upon this act, the rage of the persecution was somewhat aba­ted, yet many evil disposed men, and cruel Officers there were, vvhich ceased not to afflict the Christians in divers Provinces: especially if any [Page 36] commotion was raised in any of them, then presently were the Chri­stians blamed for it. Trajan sent a command to Jerusalem, that who­soever could be found out of the stock of David, should be enquired for,The stock of David sought for. and put to death; hereupon some Sectaries of the Jewish nation, accused Simeon the son of Cleophas, to come of Davids line, and that he was a Christian: of which Accusers it happened, that some of them were taken to be of the stock of David, and so most righteously were executed themselves who sought the destruction of others. In this Persecution suffered Phocas Bishop of Pontus, A just reward. whom Trajan, because he would not sacrifice to Neptune, Phocus Martyr. caused to be cast into a hot lime-kilne, and afterwards to be put into a scalding bath, where he ended his life in the cause of Christ: As also Sulpitius Servilianus, and Nereus, and Achilleus suffered Martyrdom in Rome, Sulpitius, Ne­reus and A­chilleus Mar­tyrs. Sagaris in Asia; Then also Ignatius Bishop of Antioch was apprehended and sent to Rome, where he was devoured of wild beasts, and besides these, many thousand others.

Adrian Emp. Alexander, Herenes and Quiri [...]us mar­tyrs. Zenon.After the death of Trajan, succeeded Hadrian, who continued this third persecution against the Chrstians; at which time, Alexander Bishop of Rome, with his two Deacons, as also Hermes and Quirinus with their families suffered Martyrdom. Also about this time, Zenon a noble man of Rome, with above ten thousand more were slain for Christs sake.Ten thousand crucified. Also in mount Ararath were ten thousand Christians crucified, crowned with thorns, and thrust into the side with sharp darts, after the example of the Lords passion. Eustachius, a noble Cap­tain,Eustachius Martyr. who Trajan had sent out to war against the Barbarians; after (through Gods Mercy) he had valiantly subdued his enemies, was re­turning home with victory: Hadrian for joy, went to meet him, and to bring him home with triumph: but by the way, he would needs sacri­fice to Apollo, for the victory obtained, willing Eustachius to do the same with him; but when by no means he could be perswaded thereto, com­ing to Rome, he with his wife and Children suffered Martyrdom; by the command of the ingratefull Emperour.Monstrous in­gratitude. Faustinus and Jobita Mar­tyrs. Also Faustinus and Jobita, Citizen of Brixia, were martyred with many torments; which caused one Calocerius, beholding their admirable patience in the midst of their cruel torments, to cry out, Vere magnus est Deus Christianorum, Verily great is the God of the Christians; whereupon being apprehend­ed,More. he was made Partaker of their Martyrdom. Also Eleutherius Bi­shop in Apulia, Eleutherius, Anthea, and Symphorissa Martyrs. was beheaded, together with his mother Anthea. Also Symphorissa, a godly Matron, was often cruelly scourged, afterwards hanged up by the hairs of her head: at last had a huge stone fastened to her, and so thrown into the river; after which her seven Children in like manner,With her seven sons. with sundry and divers kinds of torments were all of them martyred by the Tyrant. These seven Children of Symphorissa, were fastened to seven stakes, then racked up with a pully, & afterwards thrust thorow; Crescens in the neck, Julianus in the breast, Nemesius in the heart, Primitivus in the navil, Justinus was cut in every joint of his body, Statteus run thorow with spears, and Eugenius [Page 37] cut asunder from the breast to the lower parts, and then all of them were cast into a deep pit; Adrian being at Athens, sacrificed to the Idols after the manner of the Grecians, and gave free leave to whomsoever vvould, to persecute the Christians, which should refuse it: whereupon Quadratus bishop of Athens, a man of admirable zeal, and famous for learning,Quadratus his Apology for the Christians, and Aristides, and Serenus. exhibited to the Emperour a learned and excellent Apolo­gy in defence of the Christian Religion: The like also did Aristides, an excellent Philosopher in Athens. There was also one Serenus Granius, a man of great nobility, who writ pithy and grave Letters to Hadrian; shewing that it was neither agreeable to right nor reason, that the blood of innocents should be given up to the rage and fury of the people, and be condemned for no other fault but for their opinions; Here­upon the Emperour became more favourable to them, writing also in their behalf to Minutius Fundanus, Proconsul of Asia, that if they had no other crime objected against them, but their Religion, they should not be put to death. Yet notwithstanding all this, the rage of the heathen multitude did not disquiet and persecute the people of God; imputing to them whatsoever mischief and judgements befell them; yea, they invented against them all manner of Contumelies,Christians falsly accused. and false crimes to accuse them of, whereby many in sundry places vvere mo­lested and put death.

After Hadrian, succeeded Antoninus Pius, An. Pi. Emp. shews them [...]a­vour. vvho being informed of the cruel sufferings of the Christians, vvrote this Letter to his Com­mons of Asia, forbidding them to persecute the Christians any fur­ther, which Epistle he thus concludes, If any hereafter shall offer any vexation and trouble to Christians, having no other cause, but because they are such, let him that is appeached, be released, and freely discharged, An excellent Law. and let his Accuser sustain the punishment, &c.

By this means then the tempest of persecution began in those days to be appeased, through the mercifull providence of God; who would not have his Church to be utterly overthrown and rooted up thereby: The rod of the wicked shall not always rest upon the lot of the righteous, Psalm 125.3.

[Page 38] Here place the second Figure.

CHAP. X. The fourth Primitive Persecution, which began Anno Christi, 162.

AFter the death of that quiet and mild Prince Antoninus Pius, his son M. Antoninus Verus succeeded in the Empire, a stern and severe man by nature, who raised the fourth persecution against the Chri­stians; wherein a great number of them, who truly professed Christ, suffered most cruel punishments and torments especially in A­sia and France, amongst whom was Polycarp Bishop of Smyrna, who was burnt at a stake at Smyrna, together with twelve others that came from Philadelphia. Also Germanicus a young man,Polycarp mar­tyr. did most constantly per­severe in the Doctrine of Christ, whom when the Proconsul of Asia desired to remember his age, and to favour himself,Germanacus. Constancy. he would by no flatteries be with-drawn from his stedfastness, but remaining constant, was thrown to the wild beasts, whom he allured and provoked to come upon him, and devour him, that he might be the more spee­dily delivered out of this wretched life. Also in this persecution suf­fered Metrodorus, a Minister, who was consumned by fire;Metrodorus. Pionus Apol­lggy and Mar­tyrdom. and Pionius who after much boldness of speech, with his Apologies exhibited, and his Sermons made to the people in defence of the Christian faith, and after much relieving and comforting such as were in prisons and distress, at last was put to cruel torments, and then burned in the fire, Also at Pargamopolis in Asia, suffered Carpus, Papilus, and Agathonica, a woman, who after their most constant and worthy confessions,Carpus, Papilus and Agathonica. were put to death.

At Rome, Felicitas with her seven Children were martyred, whereof her eldest son, after he vvas whipt and grievously scourged with rods,Felicitas and her seven chil­dren. vvas prest to death with leaden weights: the two next had their brains beaten out with mawls: the fourth was thrown down head-long from an high place, and brake his neck: the three youngest were beheaded; and lastly, the mother was slain with the svvord.

Also Justin Martyr, a man that excelled in learning and Philosophy, and a great Defender of the Christian Religion, who had deliver­ed to the Emperor and Senate,Justin Ma [...]tyas Apology and Martyrdom. an Apology in defence of the Chri­stians, suffered Martyrdom in this persecution.

There was in Egypt a certain woman married to a husband that was given much unto laciviousness, whereunto she her self also had been formerly addicted; but being instructed in the Christian Reli­gion, she became a chast and godly Matron, and endeavoured to per­swade her husband also thereunto: But he continuing in his filthy life, she resolved to be divorced from him; yet at the request of her friends: she forbore, to try if by any means he would be reclaimed: But he going to Alexandria, and living more licenciously then before, she [Page 40] sued out a bill of Divorce, and so was separated from him; then did this malicious wretch accuse her to be a Christian,Malice. which was no lesse then death, whereupon she being in great perill, delivered up a suppli­cation to the Emperour, craving but so much favour, that she might go and set her family in order, and then she would be ready to answer to all such crimes as should be objected against her: This petition the Emperour granted; Her husband perceiving that he was frustrated of his expectation, went and accused Ptolemaeus (who was her instructer in the faith of Christ) that he was a Christian.Ptolemaus. Ptolemaeus loving the truth, and not thinking it good to hide his profession, confessed it: Therefore being brought before Vrbicius the Judge, he was by him condemned to die;Lucius. Whereupon one Lucius a Christian, standing by, said to the Judge, What reason, I pray you, or equity is this, that this man, who is neither Adulterer, Fornicator, Murtherer, nor Felon, nor guilty of any other crime, should he condemned for his name, and profession of Christianity? These manner of Judgements (O Urbicius) are neither ho­nourable for the Emperor, nor for the estate of the Senate of Rome: Then said Vrbicius, Note. Methinks thou also art a Christian, which Lucius con­fessing, the Judge without any further delay, commanded him also to be had away to the place of Execution; to whom he answered, I thank you with all my heart, that hereby you release me from most wicked governors, and send me to my good and loving Father, who is God of gods, and King of Kings. Also a third man coming to the Judge, and using the like liberty of speech, had the like sentence of death, and was crown­ed with the same crown of Martyrdom.

Concordus.Also one Concordus, a Minister of the City of Spoleto, because he re­fused to sacrifice to Jupiter, and did spit in the face of the Idol, after divers cruel torments sustained, was beheaded with the sword.

Many others also suffered Martyrdom at the same time, because they sharply reprehended Idolatry, and refused at the Emperors com­mand, to offer sacrifice to Idols, for which they were beheaded.

Persecutions in France.Many Christians also suffered in France, the History of whom was written, and set forth by their own Churches, and directed to the bre­thren of Asia and Phrygia; wherein they write, that Satans Instru­ments were so maliciously active against them, that they could not be safe any where, neither in the Markets, Shops, nor their own Houses. Yea, they were forbidden to come into any publick places: But God in Mercy took out of the Tyrants hands,Gods Provi­dence. such as were weak amongst the Christians, and sets up others, as Pillars, who are able to abide all sufferings, and valiantly to withstand the enemy, notwithstanding all the opprobrious punishments they could devise;Patience. yea, by their admira­ble patience they shewed that all the sufferings of this present time were not to be compared with the glory which they expected to be re­vealed in them. First they suffered whatsoever the frantick multitude could inflict upon them,Divers tor­ments▪ by railings, scourgings, drawings and halings, flinging of stones, imprisonment, &c. Then were they led to the Mar­ket-place, vvhere the Captain and other City-Officers, commanded [Page 41] them to prison, after they had made confessions of their faith pub­lickly, till the return of the chief Governor: Who being come back, he used all extremity that possibly he could against them. At which time a noble young man, called Vetius Epagathus, Vetius Epaga­thus his zeal. being replenished with fervent zeal and love, both to God and the brethren, could not suf­fer the wicked Judgement which vvas given against the brethren: Whereupon he desired the Governor to hear vvhat he had to say in their behalf, in whom vvas no impiety found: But the people cryed out against him, and the Justice denied his lawfull request, withal, asking him vvhether he himself vvere not a Christian? unto which, vvith a loud and bold voice he answered, I am a Christian; And thus was he received into the fellowship of the Martyrs▪ By this worthy ex­ample the rest of the brethren were more animated to suffer Martyr­dom: Yet some there were as yet weak, and not so well prepared for sufferings, of vvhom there vvere ten that fainted, vvhich filled the rest vvith great heaviness.Humane frailty. Their example also caused such as vvere not yet apprehended to be less forward in adventuring themselves; yet every day were some apprehended, which were worthy to fill up the number of them which vvere fallen.

Against the Christians vvere their heathen servants examined, and being threatned vvith extream torments, they vvere enforced to con­fess against their Masters,Christians slandered. that at their meetings they kept the feasts of Thiestes, and incest of Oedipus, and many other such like crimes, not fit to be named, which things being bruted abroad, every one began to exercise their cruelty against the people of God; yea, their fami­liar friends disdained and vvaxed mad against them.

Then vvas all manner of cruelty used against them, especially against Sanctus, Deacon of the Church of Viena, and Maturus, but a little before baptized, but yet a worthy souldier of Christ.Sanctus. Maturus. Attalus. Blandina. Also against Attalus and Blandina, concerning whom vve vvere all afraid, especi­ally her Mistress, lest through vveakness she should not stand to her profession; but, through Gods Grace, she vvas so admirably replenished vvith strength and boldness,A miracle of Mercy. that they vvhich had the tormenting of her by course from morning till night, for very vveariness gave over, and fell dovvn, confessing that they could do no more against her, mar­velling that she yet lived, having her body so torn and rent as it vvas:Tormentors, wearied. professing that any one of those torments alone had been sufficient to bereave her of life. But this blessed Virgin became stronger and stronger in her sufferings, and as often as she spake these vvords, I am a Christian, and have not committed any evil, she was vvonderfully comforted.Note.

Sanctus also, who in his torments had endured more pains then the nature of man vvas able to stand under, when the wicked▪ thought to have heard him utter some blasphemous vvords, through the intolle­rableness of his pains, abode notwithstanding so constant in mind, that they could neither extort out of him▪ vvhat Countryman he vvas, where brought up, what his name was, vvhether a bond-man, or a free, [Page 42] but to every question he answered,Admirable constancy. I am a Christian: When therefore they had used all other kinds of torments, they clapped plates of brass red hot to the tenderest parts of his body, wherewith, though he was grievouslly scorched, yet shrunk he not for the matter; yea though his body was all drawn together with the scorching fire, so that he re­tained not the proper shape of a man, yet did he draw comfort from Christ, so as to rejoyce in these tribulations. After a while they brought him again to new torments, hoping thereby to enforce him to a recan­tation; at which time his body was so sore and swoln, that he could not suffer a man to touch him: but contrary to their expectation, his body in these latter torments was so suppled and restored, that he re­covered the former shape and use of his members,A miracle of Mercy. so that these second torments, through the Grace of Christ, proved a soveraign medi­cine to him.

Satan also now thinking that he was sure of Biblides, who was one of those that had denied Christ, and hoping to prevail with her, a weak and feeble woman in the faith,Biblides. to damn her soul by blasphe­ming God, brought her to the place of Execution; but she in the midst of her torments returning to her self, and by those pains remem­bring the torments of hell, said to her tormentors, How should we Chri­stians eat our own Children (as you report of us) when we eat not the blood of any beast? and so confessing her self to be a Christian, she was mar­tyred with the rest.

Yet here did not the rage of the enemies cease; for when the Chri­stians were cast into prison, they were shut up in dark and ugly dun­geons, and drawn by the feet in a rack, even unto the fifth hole: some of them were strangled and killed in the prisons; others remaining in pri­son, destitute of all humane help, were so strengthned by the Lord, both in body and mind, that they were a great comfort to the rest: The younger sort, whose bodies had not yet felt the lash of the whip, were not able to endure the sharpness of their imprisonment, but died under the same.

Photinus, Deacon to the Bishop of Lyons, about eighty nine years old,Photinus. weak and feeble, by reason of age and sickness, yet of a lively spirit and courage, by reason of the great desire which he had of mar­tyrdom, being brought to the Judgement seat, and being there de­manded of the chief Ruler, What was the Christian-mans God? he an­swered, If thou beest worthy to know, thou shalt know: the Ruler being en­raged herewith, caused him to be extreamly beaten: also such as stood next him, did him all the despight they could, beating and kick­ing him without any regard to his reverend gray hairs; others that were further off, threw at him vvhatsoever came next hand; and thus whilst he vvas gasping after life, they threw him into prison, where af­ter tvvo days he died.

They also vvhich in the first pesecution had denied Christ, vvere apprehended, cast into prison, and made partakers of the others affli­ctions; yea, they had twice so much punishment as the other had: and [Page 43] whereas they which had been constant,Danger of A­postacy. were refreshed with the joy of Martyrdom, with the hope of Gods Promises, and with the love of Christ, and his holy Spirit; the other Apostates being full of guilt, went out to death, with dejected and ill-favoured countenances, and were filled with shame, so that the very Gentiles reviled them as de­generous persons, and worthy to suffer as evil-doers: whereas in the mean time, they which had remained constant, went to their Martyr­dom with cheerfull countenances, adorned with glory and grace: yea, their very bonds wherewith they were tyed, set them out as brides when they are decked in gorgious aray: and withal they had such a re­dolent smell, as if they had been anointed with some sweet balm: by which sights the rest were confirmed, and being apprehended, confes­sed Christ without any staggering.

The Martyrdom of the Saints was of divers kinds, as the offering to God a Garland decked with sundry kinds of colours and flowers.

Maturus, Attalus, and Blandina, were again brought forth to the publick Scaffold, where Maturus and Sanctus suffered again all manner of torments, as if they had suffered nothing before: They were scour­ged, torn of wild beasts, set in red hot iron chairs, in which their bo­dies were dried as on a grid-iron, and their tormentors raged more and more against them, labouring to overcome the patience of the Saints: yet could they get nothing out of Sanctus's mouth, but that he was a Christian: These holy men having been thus made a spectacle all the day to the people, were at last slain. Then Blandina being fastened to a stake, was cast to the wild beasts, but they, as being more mercifull then men, would not come near her: then they cast her again into pri­son, where she, though a weak woman, yet armed with invincible courage by Christ, mightily encouraged her brethren. Then was Attalus brought forth with this inscription, This is Attalus the Christi­an, against whom the people were much enraged, but the Gover­nour understanding that he was a Roman, remanded him to prison till [...]he understood the Emperors pleasure: Many that had before denied Christ, through Gods Grace, recovered themselves again,Recovery after fals. and tasted the sweetness of him that desired not the death of a sinner, &c. and of their own accord came to the Judgement seat to be examined; then did the Judge, when a great concourse of people was met together, s [...]nd for all the Christian prisoners, and as many as were Free-men of Rome he beheaded, the Residue he gave to be devoured of wild beasts, amongst whom also they which had before denied Christ, joyfully suffered Martyrdom. Whilst the Christians were examining at the Bar, one Alexander, a Physitian, by signs, and becks,Alexander. perswaded those which were examined, boldly to confess Christ, which the people tak­ing notice of, accused him to the Judge: who asking him what Religi­on he was of, he answered, I am a Christian: whereupon he was imme­diatly adjudged to be devoured of the beasts.

The next day was Attalus and this Alexander brought forth to the Sca [...]fold, where they had all manner of torments inflicted upon them, [Page 44] and having endured the greatest agony that possibly they could be put to, they were at the last slain: Alexander never so much as sighed, but prayed to, and praised God all the while he was tormented: Attalus, when he was set in the iron chair, and the frying savour of his burning body began to smell,Note. said to the people, Behold! this which you do is to eat mans flesh: for we neither eat men, nor commit any other wickedness: And being demanded what was the name of their God, he said, Our God hath no such name as men have;Blasphemy▪ then said they, Let us see whether your God can help you, and take you out of our hands. Then was Blandina again brought forth,Ponticus a boy of fifteen years old. and with her one Ponticus, a youth of fifteen years old, who defying their Idols, and constantly cleaving to Christ, were put to all the torments their enraged enemies could devise: the youth ha­ving suffered all kinds of torments, at last gave up the ghost: Blandina was first pitifully whipped, then thrown to the wild beasts, then tor­mented upon the grid-iron, then put into a net, and thrown to the wild Bull, and when she was tossed, gored, and wounded with his horns, she was at last slain, but was so filled with ravishing joyes of the H. Ghost, that she felt no pain during all her torments.Joy unspeak­able. Such as were strangled in prisons, were afterwards thrown to dogs, and had keepers both day and night set to watch them, lest their bones and members should be buried. In the mean time the Gentiles extolled their Idols, mocking and flouting the Christians, saying, Where is your God that you so much boast of? Blasphemy. and what helpeth this your religion for which you give your lives? The bodies of the Martyrs were thus made a gazing-stock for six days in the open streets, and then were burned, and their Ashes thrown into the River.

Justin Martyr. Alcibiades.Also in this persecution Justin Martyr, through the malice of Cre­scens the Philosopher, suffered Martyrdom. Also one Alcibiades a man of a strict life, eating only bread and water, was cast into the prison where Attalus, and other Christians lay; and Alcibiades con­tinued the same strict diet in prison: but it was from God revealed to Attalus, that he did not well in refusing the other good Creatures of God, and that it was scandalous to his brethren: whereupon he re­formed, and ate of all things boldly with thanksgiving.

About this time Clandius Apolinaris, Bishop of Hieropolis, and Melito Bishop of Sardis, Clau. Apolina­ris and Melito Apologize for the Christians. eloquent and learned men, delivered to the Empe­rour excellent Apologies written by them in defence of the Christian Religion, whereby they prevailed with him somewhat to stay the rage of his Persecution: which also was furthered upon this occasion: Marcus Aurelius, and Marcus Antonius the Emperors, going to War against the Quades, Vandals, Sarmates and Germans; their Army, by the mul­titude of their enemies, was coopt up in some strait, dry and hot pla­ces, where the souldiers having been destitute of water for five days together, were all like to perish. Hereupon a Legion of Christian souldiers being in the Army,The thun­dring Legion. with-drew apart from the rest, and falling prostrate upon the earth, by ardent prayer, obtained of God a double relief: for the Lord sent the Romans such showers, as satisfied their [Page 45] necessities, and flashed such lightnings against their enemies, that thereby they were discomfited and put to flight. This Miracle so plea­sed the Emperor, that ever after he used the Christians gentler, wri­ting also to divers Rulers, commanding them to give thanks to the Christians, as for their victory, so for the preservation of himself, and his Army. His letters was to this purpose, That whereas himself and Army, were invironed with nine hundred seventy five thousand fighting men, and were like to perish for want of water, the Christi­ans praying to a God, that he knew not, obtained relief for him, and by hail and lightning, Destruction to his enemies; whereby he per­ceived their God to be a mighty God. Hereupon he decreed that none should be punished for the Christian Profession, being guilty of no other crime,A good Edict. and that the Accusers of the Christians should be burned alive: Which degree he commanded to be recorded in the Senate-house, proclaimed publickly in the Court of Trajan, and sent diligent­ly into all his Provinces, that all might take notice of the same.

Yet not long after, Apollonius a noble Senator of Rome, was accused by his own servant before the Judge, for being a Christian;Apollonius. The Ac­cuser, according to the the Decree, had his legs broken, and was put to death.A just reward of treachery. But Apollonius having rendred an accocnt of his faith before the Senate, was condemned to be beheaded, notwithstanding the De­cree, because there was an old Law, that any that was arraigned for professing Christ, without a recantation, could not be released.

Commodus the Emperor upon his birth-day, calling the people of Rome together, in a great royalty, clothed in his Lions skin, sacrificed to Hercules causing it to be proclaimed, that Hercules was the Patron of the City: whereupon Vincentius, Eusebius, Peregrinus and Pontentianus, learn­ed men, and Pastors of the Congregations, being stirred up with zeal,Vincentius, Eu­sebius, Peregri­nus and Poten­tianus. Zeal, went about from place to place, converting the Gentiles to the faith of Christ, and hearing of the madness of the Emperor and people, they reproved that Idolatrous blindness, exhorting them to believe in the true and living God, and that forsaking the worshipping of devils, they should honour God alone. The Emperor hearing thereof, caused them to be apprehended, and required them to sacrifice to Hercules, which they refusing to do, he caused them to be grievously tormented, and at last to be pressed to death with weights of lead.

Julius a Roman Senator,Julius. having been converted by the preaching of these men, afterwards sent for Ruffinus a Minister, by whom him­self and all his family were baptized, and burning with holy zeal,Zeal. he made an open profession of the faith of Christ, praying that he might not only believe, but that he might have the honour to suffer for his Name. The Emperor hearing that he was become a Christian, sent for him, to whom he said, O Julius, What madness possesseth thee thus to forsake the Religion of thy Fore-fathers, to embrace a new and fond kind of Religion of the Christians? Hereupon Julius made before him a free and open profession of his faith, affirming that the Roman gods were false gods, and that they that worshipped them, should be punished [Page 46] with everlasting damnation. The Emperor hearing that he despised his gods, was much enraged, and committed him to Vitellius, a cruel and fierce man, to compell him, either to sacrifice to Hercules, or to slay him: But Julius nothing discouraged, and perswading Vitellius to ac­knowledge, and serve the true God, was at his command with Cud­gels beaten to death.

CHAP. XI. The Fifth Primitive Persecution which began An. Christi, 205.

COmmodus being dead, Pertinax succeeded in the Empire, under whom the Church enjoyed peace, and flourished exceedingly, so that many of the Nobles of Rome embraced the true faith, together with their whole housholds.

Pertinax being dead, Severus succeeded, and in the first ten years of his reign he was very mild and gentle to the Christians:Severus Empe­rour. But after­wards, through sinister suggestions, and malicious accusations; he was so incensed, that by his proclamations he commanded that no Christians should any more be suffered to live. Hereby great pe [...] ­secution was stirred up on every side, and an infinite number of Mar­tyrs were slain. The crimes objected against the Christians were sedi­tion,Christians charged with sedition and rebellion, &c. rebellion against the Emperor, Sacriledge, Murthering of Infants, incestuous pollutions, eating raw flesh, worshipping the head of an Asse, &c. but especially that they would not worship their Idols. The Places where this persecution most raged, were Africa, Capadocia, Alexandria and Carthage. The number of them that suffered, was innumerable, amongst whom was Leonides the father of Origen; with whom Origen his son,Leonides father of Origen. being but seventeen years old, would have suf­fered, (such a fervent desire he had of Martyrdom) had not his mo­ther privily in the night conveyed away his shirt and cloths, where­upon,Zeal. more for shame to be seen, then for fear to die, he was constrain­ed to remain at home.

Origen was afterwards a Professor of Divinity at Alexandria, and out of his school,Plutarch. Serenus. Potamiena. Marcella and Rhais. one Plutarch suffered Martyrdom, as also Serenus his brother, who was burned, and another Serenus who was beheaded. Potamiena also, who was tormented with boiling pitch poured upon her, and afterwards with her mother Marcella, and Rhais burned in the fire. This Potamiena being a beautifull Virgin, was committed to Captain Basilides to see execution done upon her, and as he led her to the place of Execution, he repressed the rage of the multitude, who followed her with many railings and revilings, whereupon, to requite his kindness, she prayed to the Lord for his Conversion to the true faith, and so with admirable patience she suffered Martyrdom.

[Page 47] Shortly after Basilides being required to give an oath in the behalf of his fellow-souldiers, he denied the same,B [...]silides his strange con­version. plainly affirming that he vvas a Christian, and therefore he could not swear by the Idols, &c. They vvhich heard him, thought that he jested at first, but when he had constantly affirmed it, they had him before the Judge, vvho commit­ted him to vvard: the Christians vvondring at it, vvent to him, and en­quiring the cause of his Conversion, he told them that Potamiena had prayed for him, and so he savv a Crovvn put upon his head, adding that it should not be long before he received it, and accordingly the next day he was beheaded.

As many suffered death in this persecution, so others there were, who through Gods providence, suffered great torments; and yet esca­ped vvith life, of whom there vvas one Alexander, vvho for his constant confession, and torments suffered, vvas afterwards made Bishop of Je­rusalem. Also Narcissus, Narcissus. False Witnes­ses plagued by God. against vvhom three vvicked persons conspired to accuse him, binding their accusations vvith oaths and curses, one vvishing to be destroyed vvith fire, if it vvere not true; another to be consumed vvith a grievous disease; the other to lose both his eyes; Narcissus being unable to vvith-stand so vvicked an accusation, retired himself into a desert: In the mean time Gods vengeance follovved these perjured Wretches: for the first, by a small spark of fire, vvas himself vvith all his family, and goods burned: the second vvas taken vvith a grievous sickness vvhich tormented him from the top to the toe, where­of he died: the third, being vvarned by these Judgements, confessed his fault, but by reason of his abundant sorrovv and vveeping, he lost both his eyes: Narcissus being hereby cleared from their false accusation, returned home, and vvas received into his Congregation again. Also one Andoclus vvas sent by Polycarp into France, vvho because he spread there the Doctrine of Christ,Andoclus. vvas apprehended by the command of Severus, and first beaten vvith staves and bats, and aftervvards behead­ed. Asclepiades also, aftervvards Bishop of Antioch, Asclepiades. suffered much in this Persecution. Then did Irenaeus, and many others vvith him suffer Martyrdom; and shortly after Tertullian also. Perpetua and Felicitas, Irenaeus. Tertullian. Perpetua. Felicitas. Revocatus. Satyrus. Secundulus. tvvo godly vvomen, vvith Revocatus their brother, and Satyrus, vvere throvvn to the vvild beasts, and devoured by them. Saturninus vvas beheaded: Secundulus cast into prison, where he died: all these suffered Martyr­dom at Carthage.

Also Zepherinus, and after him Urbanus, both Bishops of Rome, vvere martyred in this Persecution:Zepherinus. Urbanus. This Urbanus by preaching and holiness of life, converted many heathens unto Christ; amongst vvhom vvere Tiburtius and Valerianus, tvvo noble men of Rome, vvho both suf­fered Martyrdom: Also Cecilia a Virgin, vvho vvas espoused to Valerian ▪ vvas apprehended & carried to the Idols to offer sacrifice,Tiburtius. Valerianus. Cecilia. vvhich she refusing to do, should have been carried to the Judge to receive the sentence of condemnation; but the Serjeants and Officers beholding her excellent beauty and prudent behaviour, began vvith many per­svvasions to solicit her to favour her self, &c. but she so replied vvith [Page 48] wisedom and godly exhortations,A great Con­version. that by the grace of Almighty God, their hearts began to relent, and at length to yield to that Religion which before they persecuted; which she perceiving, desired leave to go home; and sending for Urbanus the Bishop to her house, he so grounded and established them in the faith of Christ, that about four hundred persons believed, and were baptized; amongst whom was Gor­dianus a noble man. Afterwards this blessed Martyr was brought before the Judge, by whom she was condemned; then she was enclosed in an hot bath for twenty four hours, yet remaining alive, she was there be­headed.

Agape [...]us a boy of fifteen years old.At Preneste in Italy was one Agapetus of fifteen years old apprehen­ded, and because he refused to sacrifice to Idols, he was first scourged with whips, then hanged up by the feet, and had scalding water pou­red on him, then he was cast to the wild beasts; but because they would not hurt him,Gods judge­ment on a per­secutor. he was lastly beheaded. Antiochus that executed these torments on him, suddenly fell down from his judicial seat, crying out that all his bowels burned within him, and so he died mise­rably.

Calepodius, a Minister of Christ in Rome, was first dragged thorow the streets,Calepodius. and after cast into Tyber.

Pamachius, a Senator of Rome, with his wife and Children, and other men and women,Pamachius. to the number of forty two, vvere all beheaded in one day, together with another noble man, all whose heads vvere hung up over the gates of the City▪ to deter others from the professi­on of Christianity.Martina. Also Martina, a Christian Virgin, having suffered many other bitter torments, vvas at last slain vvith the sword.

CHAP. XII. The sixth Primitive Persecution, which began Anno Christi, 237.

THe Emperor Maximinus raised the sixth persecution against the Christians,Maximinus Emperor. especially against the Teachers and Leaders of the Church, thinking that if these Captains were removed out of the way, he should the easilier prevail against the rest. In the time of this Persecution, Origen vvrote his book De Martyrio, vvhich being lost, the names of most that suffered Martyrdom in those times, are buried in oblivion, yet were they very many: Amongst whom Urbanus Bi­shop of Rome, Urbanus and Philip. and Philippus, one of his Ministers were banished in­to Sardinia, where they both died.

About this time one Natalius that had formerly suffered great per­secution for the cause of Christ, was seduced by Asclepiodotus and Theodorus, Sectaries dan­gerous. two Sectaries, to be the Bishop of their Sect, promising to [Page 49] pay him a hundred and fifty crowns of silver every moneth, and so he joined himself to them;Note. but the Lord in mercy not intending to lose him that had suffered so much for his sake, admonished him by a vision to adjoin himself to the true Church again, which the good man for the present, blinded with lucre and honour, did not regard as he ought to have done: The night after he was scourged by Angels, whereup­on in the morning, purting on Sack-cloth,Probably it was by the ter­rors of his own consci­ence. with much weeping and lamentation, he went to the Christian Congregation, praying them for the tender mercies of Christ, that he might be received into their Communion again; which request was accordingly granted unto him.

Hippolitus was drawn thorow the fields with wild horses till he died; Many others were martyred and buried by sixty in a pit.

CHAP. XIII. The seventh Primitive Persecution, which began Anno Christi, 250.

DEcius the Emperor raised this seventh terrible persecution against the Christians,Decius Emp. which was first occasioned by reason of the trea­sures of the Emperor, which were committed to Fabian the Bishop of Rome, who thereupon, by the command of Decius, was put to death,Fabian Mar­tyr. and moreover his Proclamations were sent into all quarters, that all which professed the name of Christ, should be slain.A cruel Edict. In the time of this Persecution Origen suffered many and great torments for the cause of Christ, by Rackings, Dungeons, &c.

Nicephorus, who writeth of this persecution under Decius, decla­reth the horribleness of it to be so great, and that so many Martyrs suffered, That, saith, he, it is as easie to number the sands of the sea, as to set down the names of all those whom this persecution did devour.

Alexander, Bishop of Jerusalem, who was very aged, having go­verned the Church forty years, was from thence carried to Caesarea, Alexander Martyr. where after a bold and constant confession of his faith, made before the Judge, he was cast into prison, and there died. Babilas Bishop of Antioch also died in prison,Babilus. and forty Virgins were martyred there about that time. And one Peter in the Country of Phrygia, being ap­prehended by the Proconsul,Peter. suffered most bitter torments for the name of Christ, the like did divers others in Troada. From Babylon divers Christians were led away by Decius into Spain, and there exceu­ted; the like sufferings had many in Caesarea,

Dionysius Alexandrinus, writing of the Martyrs that suffered in Alexandria, saith thus, This Persecution began about a year before the Em­perors Proclamation came forth, by reason of a wicked South-sayer, A South-sayer stirs up a per­secution. who com­ing to the City, stirred up the multitude of heathens against the Christians, [Page 50] perswading them to uphold their Idolatrous services; wherewith the people being inflamed, obtained full power to prosecute their wicked purposes, con­ceiving all Religion to consist in the destruction of the Christians. And first of all they fell upon a Minister,Metra Martyr. called Metra, whom they would have enforced to blaspheme Christ; which when he refused, they laid up­on him with staves and clubs, and with sharp Reeds they pricked his face and eyes; and then, bringing him to the Suburbs, they stoned him to death.Quinta. Then they took an holy woman, called Quinta, and bringing her to the Idol-Temple, would compell her to worship there; which she constantly refusing, they bound her feet, and drew her thorow all the streets upon the hard-stones, whipt her with Whips, dashed her against Mil-stones,The Christian houses plun­dred. and lastly stoned her to death. Then the en­raged multitude breaking into the Christians houses, plundred them of all they had; the rest of the lumber they carried into the market-place, and burned it: The Saints in the mean time taking patiently and joyfully the spoiling of their goods, knowing that they had a more enduring substance in heaven.

Then they took an ancient Virgin, called Apollinia, whom they brought forth▪ Apollinia leaps into the fire. and dashing all the teeth out of her head, they made a great fire, threatning to cast her into it, unless she would blaspheme and deny Christ; whereupon she, after a little pause, leaped into the fire, and so was burned. Then they took Serapion out of his house, whom they assailed with all kind of torments,Serapion. broke almost all the joynts of his body: and lastly throwing him down from an high loft, killed him. The poor Christians could no where shelter themselves, nor rest day nor night, the multitude crying out, that unless they would blaspheme Christ, they should all be burned. But, through Gods Mercy,Persecutors di­vided amongst themselves. the miserable wretches at last fell out amongst themselves, turn­ing their cruelty, formerly exercised against the Christians, upon their own heads, whereby the Church had a little breathing time.

The danger of riches.Shortly after came forth the cruel Edict of the Emperor, which so terrified the Christians, that some, especially the rich, partly through fear, and partly by the perswasion of their Neighbours, came to those impure and idolatrous sacrifices:Zeal. Others came boldly to the Altars, declaring publickly, that they were not of that Religion: Of the rest some ran away, others were taken, enduring bands and torments constantly: Others again, after long imprisonment, and sundry tor­ments,Apostacy. renounced their faith, whilst others more strong in the faith, valiantly endured Martyrdom: Amongst whom was Julianus, a man diseased with the gout, and not able to go, and Cronion, who were laid upon Camels,Julianus Mar­tyr, and Croni­on. and there scourged, and at last thrown into the fire, where, with much constancy, they were consumed. As Juli­anus went to Martyrdom, a certain souldier took his part against those which railed upon him; Whereupon the people crying out against him, he was apprehended, and being constant in his profession, was presently beheaded.

Macar. Epim [...]chus.Also Macar a Christian Lybian was burned alive. Epimachus and [Page 51] Alexander, having been long imprisoned,Alexander. Ammonarion. Mercuria. after innumerable pains and torments, with rasors and scourges, were vvith four women, consumed with fire: Ammonarion a Virgin, Mercuria an aged Matron, and Dionysia, a mother of many Children,Dio [...]ysia. whom yet she loved not above the Lord, these, vvhen they could not be overcome by any torments inflicted on them by the cruel Judge, but rather were unsensible of them all, vvere at last slain vvith the svvord.

Also three Egyptians, and a youth of fifteen years old, vvere brought before the Judge, who first began vvith the Child, by fair words,A boy of fif­teen years old. seeking to entice him, then by torments to constrain him, which not prevailing, when he had tormented the other also he condemned them all to the fire; But the Judge wondring at the wise answers, and grave constancy of the child, dismissed him.

Nemesion also an Egyptian, Nemesion. vvas first accused to be a companion of thieves, but being purged from that, he vvas accused of Christianity, tormented and scourged extreamly, and then amongst other thieves, burnt to death.

A certain Christian being examined before the Judge, and through fear being ready to shrink back, there were by,Humane frail­ty. certain souldiers of the degree of Knights, and an aged man named Theophilus, who were ready to burst for grief, making signs to him,Zeal. by their hands and ge­stures, to be constant; vvhich being observed by the By-standers, they vvere ready to lay hold of them, but they of their own accord, pressing up to the Judge, professed themselves to be Christians,Courage. which much imboldened the weak Christian that vvas before the tribunal, and ter­rified the Judge. This being done they departed away, rejoycing for the testimony that they had given of their faith.

In other Cities many Christians were torn in pieces by the heathen.

Ischirion, a servant to a noble man,Ischirion. vvas commanded by his Master to sacrifice to the Idols, vvhich vvhen he refused, and vvould by no means be perswaded to, his Master took a pike, and ran him thorovv. Multitudes of Christians vvandring in deserts and mountains, vvere devoured by hunger, thirst, cold, sickness, thieves and vvild beasts,The miseries of Christians. Cheremon. amongst vvhom vvas Cheremon, Bishop of the City of Nilus, and his vvife, vvho flying into the mountains of Arabia, vvere never heard of more. Dionysius also saith of himself, I speak the truth before God, and lie not, I having no regard of my own life,Dionys [...]us. and not without the moti­on of Gods Spirit, did flie,A miracle of Mercy. and avoid the danger of this persecuti­an: Yea, and before that, when one was sent from the Governor te seek me, I remained three days at home to tarry for him; The messenger in the mean time narrowly sought for me by all ways, fields, floods and corners, where he thought I might hide my self, God striking him with such blindness, that he could not find my house. After these three days,Flight in per­secution. the Lord God willing and commanding me to flie, and marvellously opening to me the way, I with my Children, and many other brethren, vvent out together, and so escaped.

Also Agatha, a godly Virgin of Sicilie, suffered divers and bitter [Page 52] torments of imprisonment, with beatings, famine, racking, as also rolling naked upon sharp shels, and hot coals, and having her breasts cut off her body. Also forty other Virgins, by sundry kinds of tor­ments, were put to death about the same time.

Decius erecting a Temple at Ephesus, compelled all in the City to offer Sacrifice to Idols, but there were seven Christian souldiers of his own Retinue, who refused, neither could the Emperor, by perswasions or threats,Courage of seven souldiers. induce them to it, yet he gave them respite till his return from the Wars; in the mean time they hid themselves in a cave in the mountain Celius. At the Emperors Return he made great inquisition for them, and at last hearing where they were, he caused the mouth of the cave so to be closed up, that they could not get out, and so they were famished there.

There was also one Nicetas, a Christian souldier, whom when the Praetor could not by any torments remove from his stedfastness, he took another course with him,Nicetas his ra [...]e chastity. for he brought him into a most fragrant garden, flowing with all manner of pleasures and delights, where he laid him upon a bed of down, softly enwrapped in a net of silk, among the Lillies and Roses, the delicious murmure of the streams, and the sweet whistling of the leaves moved with a gentle wind, and so de­parted: presently in comes a beautifull strumpet, and useth all the abo­minable tricks of her impure Art, and whorish villanies, to draw him to commit wickedness with her; whereupon the young man fearing that he should now be conquered by folly, who was Conqueror over fury, bites off a piece of his tongue with his own teeth, and spits it into the face of the whore, and so prevented the hurt of sin by the smart of his wound.

At Antioch, Theodora, a godly Virgin, refusing to sacrifice to the Idols,Theodora con­demned to the Stews. Her strange deliverance. was condemned by the Judge to the Stews, which sentence being executed, there were many wanton young men ready at the door to press into the house where she was, but one of the brethren, called Di­dymus, putting on a souldiers habit, would have the first admittance, and coming in, he perswaded her to change garments with him, and so she, in the souldiers habit, escaped away, and Didymus was left to the rage, and wondring of the people, when he was found a man: hereupon he was presented to the President, to whom he presently confessed the whole matter, professing himself to be a Christian, and so was condem­ned; which Theodora hearing of, thinking to excuse him, she came, and presented her self to the Judge, as the guilty party, desiring that she might be condemned, and the other excused: but the cruell Judge, neither considering the vertue of the persons,Cruelty. nor the innocency of the cause, most inhumanely condemned them both, first to be beheaded, and then burnt, which was accordingly executed.

Agathon, a man at arms in Alexandria, rebuking some lewd per­sons who scornfully used the dead bodies of the Christians,Agathon. was ac­cused to the Judge, and lost his head.

In Troada, two Christians being delivered by the Proconsul to the [Page 53] people, were first scourged, then drawn out of the City, and there tro­den to death. Two Ministers with a Deacon were martyred in Rome, Two Mini­sters. and two noble men were brought and accused to Decius for burying the dead bodies of the Christians, and being by him commanded to sacri­fice to the Idols, and they refusing, he caused them to be cast to the wild beasts, but when they would not touch them, they were beheaded with the sword.

Also Secundianus was accused to be a Christian, which he affirming, was commanded to prison;Secundianus. Zeal. by the way two Christians cryed to the souldiers, asking them, whether they carried the innocent man, where­upon being apprehended and examined, they confessed themselves to be Christians, and were condemned; first they were beaten with cud­gels, then hung up, and tormented with the gibbet, having fire set to their sides, & lastly were beheaded: But some of their tormentors were taken with evil spirits; others of them fell down suddenly, and died.Gods Judge­ment on perse­cutors.

But the number of Martyrs of all ranks that suffered in this per­secution was so great, that it is impossible to set them down all; Bi­shops, Ministers, Deacons, &c. young, old, men, women, &c.

Yet amongst this great number, some there were that fell away, as Serapion an old man, that for a long time had lived a sincere and godly life, who afterwards repenting of his Apostacy,Serapions Apo­stacy, desired to be re­admitted into the Church, but that was not granted: Shortly after he fell sick, and in it having remained dumb,and Recovery. and bereaved of his senses for twenty four hours, the day after, he began a little to recover, and calling his Nephew to him, he said, How long, how long do you detain me here? make haste that I may be absolved: Call me hither some of the Mini­sters, &c. and so being absolved, he presently after died.

In Troada, Nicomachus being grievously tormented, cryed out, I am no Christian; and so being let down from the Engine, he had no sooner sa­crificed to the Idols, but being possessed by the devil, he was thrown on the ground, where he bit off his own tongue, and immediately after died; Many others which shewed the like cowardise,Danger of A­postacy. were taken and tormented with wicked spirits: One was struck dumb: A maid taken with a wicked spirit, tore out her own tongue, and died with grievous torments in her belly, and inward parts: But though some did thus fall away, yet others there were, whom neither fear,Constancy. nor pain could remove from their stedfastness, but they continued glorious Martyrs to the end.

Cyprian relates a story of one of his fellow-Ministers, who in the midst of his torments began to faint, being greatly afraid of death, and desired to be released:A Vision. at which time there appeared to him a young man of admirable beauty, and so bright, that mans mortal eye could scarce endure to behold him, who angerly said to him, Pati timetis, exire non vultis, quid faciam vobis? To suffer you dare not, to go out you will not, what would you have me do unto you?The begin­ning of the Novatian schism.

In this Persecution there sprung up the Novatian Schism, which made a great disturbance in the Church. This Novatus being a Minister under Cyprian in Carthage, by stirring up discord and factions, bred [Page 54] much trouble to the Church, seeking to withdraw certain of the bre­thren from the Bishop: And afterwards Novatus going to Rome, set up himself as a Bishop,Pride the cause of schism. against Cornelius, the then Bishop of Rome; And to further his design, he by subtilty allured to him three or four holy men that had been Confessors; Then he entised three weak Bi­shops that lived in Italy, to come to Rome, and there perswaded them by imposing hands upon him, to make him Bishop; for which fact, two of them afterwards were suspended, and the third upon his repentance vvas re-admitted. Novatus being thus made a Bishop, grew proud, and sought by all means to with-draw the people from Cornelius to himself; yea, he made many of them to swear that they would not leave him to go to Cornelius. But the holy Confessors before mentioned, vvhen they perceived the crafty subtilty of Novatus, left him, and much grieving for their sin, were reconciled to Cornelius again. Novatus held this opinion, that they which once renounced the faith, and for fear of torments had offered incense to the Idols, although they re­pented,A Synod against Nova­tus. yet could never be re-admitted into the Church of Christ again. To suppress this error, there was a Synod called at Rome of sixty Bishops, Anno 255. who condemned it.

Cyprian also relates of Aurelius, a godly and valiant young man, who for his constancy in the cause of Christ,Aurelius. suffered great and many torments, and afterwards was banished. And of Mappalicus, who the day before he suffered,Mappalicus. in the midst of his torments told the Pro­consul▪ Videbis cras agonem, to morrow you shall see the running for a Wager, and accordingly the next day being brought forth to his Martyrdom, he with no less constancy then patience, endured faithfull unto the death.

But Decius the Author of this persecution, escaped not the revenging hand of God, for warring against the Goths, and being overcome by them,Gods Judge­ment on perse­cutors. lest he should fall into their hands, he leaped vvith his horse into a whirlpit, where he was drowned, and his body was never found after. Yea, God avenged the blood of his Saints upon the whole Ro­man Empire, by sending a general plague of pestilence upon it, which continued ten years together; and Dionysius saith, that in Alexandria, vvhere he vvas Bishop,A terrible plague. there vvas scarce any house clear; and though some Christians died in this plague, yet it fell most heavy upon the Gentiles. The Christians also in this plague shewed much brotherly love each to other, by visiting, comforting, and relieving one another. Whereas the Idolaters,The brotherly love of Chri­stians. being stricken with extream fear of the plague, none considered his Neighbour, but every man shifted for himself, and of those that were infected, some they cast out of doors half dead, to be devoured of dogs and wild beasts, some they let die in their houses without all succour; others they suffered to lie unburied, and durst not come near them,A special Pro­vidence. notwithstanding vvhich, the pestilence followed them whithersoever they vvent, and miserably consumed them; so that the most part of the Inhabitants were consumed by it in every Country, especially in those Provinces, where had been the greatest [Page 55] persecutions raised against the Christians.

After the death of Decius, there succeeded Gallus and Volusianus in the Empire, Anno Christi 255. who continued this persecution against the Christians; which fell most heavy upon the Pastors and Mini­sters of the Congregations: for about this time Cyprian, and many other Ministers were banished: others were put into the mettal Mines, to whom Cyprian wrote an Epistle consolatory, wherein he writes thus, Wounds and scars are an Ornament to a Christians brest, Cyprians con­solatory letter. such as bring not shame, but honoureth them before the Lord; and though in the Mynes there be no beds for their bodies to rest on, yet they have rest in Christ; and though their weary bones lie on the cold ground, yet it's no pain to lie with Christ. Their feet are fettered with chains, but he is bound of man, whom the Lord Christ doth loose; he lies tied in the stocks, whose feet thereby are made swifter to run to heaven; neither can any man tie a Christian so fast, but he runs so much the faster for his garland of life. They have no garments to save them from cold, but he that puts on Christ is sufficiently clothed. Doth bread fail to their hungry bodies? Man lives not by bread alone, but by every Word that proceeds out of the mouth of God. Your defor­mity shall be turned to honour, your mourning to joy, your pain to pleasure, and felicity infinite. And if this grieve you, that you cannot serve God in your places as formerly, yet your daily sacrifice ceaseth not, which is a con­trite and humble heart; and though your travel be great, yet shall your re­ward be greater; for God beholding them which confess his name, appro­veth their willing minds, in their strivings helpeth them, in their victory crowneth them, rewarding that in us which he hath performed, and crowning that which he hath in us perfected. Again he tells them that they are now in a joyfull journey, hasting apace to the mansions of the Martyrs, there to enjoy, after darkness, durable light, and comfort above all their sufferings, &c. About the same time also, Lucius Bishop of Rome was banished.

After the death of Gallus and Volusianus, there succeeded Valerianus, who ceased the persecution, and carried himself exceeding friendly to the Christians; so that his whole Court was replenished with holy Saints and servants of Christ, whereby his house seemed a Church of God. But the Devil envying the peace of the Church, by the means of an Egyptian Enchanter, (who was hindred from doing his feats, by the presence of the Christians) stirred up the Emperor against them, who grew to such impiety himself,Persecution stirred up by a Sorcerer. that he sacrificed young infants to his Idols, quartered their bodies, divided the Entrails of young Children new born, &c. as hereafter follows.

CHAP. XIV. The eighth Primitive Persecution which began An. Christi, 259.

VAlerianus being seduced by the Egyptian Inchanter, as is before related, stirred up the eighth persecution against the Church of Christ;Sin the Fore­runner of per­secution. concerning which Cyprian writeth thus; ‘We must confess that this great calamity which hath wasted for the most part all our Churches, and still dayly consumes us, ariseth chiefly from our own wickedness, while we walk not in the way of the Lord, nor observe his precepts as we ought, whilst we are full of lucre, pride, emulation, dissention, void of simplicity and faithfull dealing, renouncing the world in word, but not in deed, every man pleasing himself, and dis­pleasing others; and therefore we are thus worthily scourged: For what stripes do we not deserve, when the Confessors themselves do keep no Discipline; &c. Concluding, Non venissent fratribus haec mala, si in unum fraternitas fuisset animata; These evils had not happened to the brethren, if they had joyned together in brotherly unanimity.’ A little before this persecution began, God by a vision revealed it to Cyprian, saying to him, Be quiet and of good comfort, for peace will come;A Vision. albeit a little stay there is for a while, for that some remain yet to be proved and tried, &c.

The crimes and accusations that were laid to the charge of the Christians,Christians charged as the causes of all plagues. by the Persecutors, were, that they refused to worship Idols, and the Emperors; and that they professed the name of Christ: Yet be­sides, all the calamities and evils that happened in the world, as wars, famine, pestilence, &c. were imputed only to the Christians: But Cyprian and Tertullian confuting those slanders,Confuted by Cyprian and Tertullian. proved that the speci­al cause of all those miseries which befell the Empire, proceeded from the cruel shedding of the innocent blood of the Christians. In this persecution, Cyprian was at last condemned to have his head cut off,Cyprian Mar­tyr. who patiently and willingly submitted his neck to the stroak of the sword.

Also about this time, Sixtus Bishop of Rome, with his six Deacons, were accused for being Christians,Sixtus and his Deacons. whereupon being brought to the place of Execution, they were all beheaded.

Laurence also another of his Deacons, following Sixtus as he went to his Execution, complained that he might not suffer with him, but that he was secluded, as the son from the father: To whom the Bishop answered, that within three days he should follow him, bidding him in the mean time to go home, and if he had any treasures, to distribute them amongst the poor: The Judge hearing mention of treasures, sup­posing that Laurence had great store in his custody, commanded him to bring the same to him: Laurence craved three days respite, promising [Page 57] then to declare where the treasure might be had: In the mean time he caused a good number of poor Christians to be gathered together,The courage and constancy of Laurence. and when the day of his answer was come, the persecutor strictly charged him to make good his promise; then valiant Laurence stretching out his arms over the poor, said, These are the precious treasures of the Church, these are the treasure indeed in whom Christ hath his mansion,, &c. But oh! what tongue is able to express the fury and madness of the Tyrants heart! how he stamped, stared, ramped,The rage of Tyrants. and fared like one out of his wits: his eyes glowed like fire, his mouth foamed like a boar, like a hell-hound he grinded his teeth: then he cryed, kindle the fire, make no spare of wood: hath this Villain deluded the Emperor? away with him, whip him with scourges, jerk him with rods, buffet him with fists, brain him with clubs: Jesteth the Traitor with the Emperor? pinch him with fiery tongs, gird him with burning plates, bring out the strongest chains and fire-forks, and the grate of Iron, set it on the fire, bind the Rebell hand and foot, and when the grate is red hot, on with him, rost him, broil him, toss him, turn him upon pain of our high displeasure, do every man his Office, O ye tormentors. Immediately his command was obeyed, and after many cruel handlings, this meek lamb was laid, I will not say upon a bed of fiery iron, but on a soft down­bed; so mightily God wrought for his servant, so miraculosly did he temper this Element of fire, that it was not a bed of consuming pain, but of nourishing rest unto Laurence. Not Laurence, but the Em­peror seemed to be tormented, the one broiling in the flesh,In all these things we are more then Conquerors. the other burning in his heart: when this triumphant Martyr had been pressed down with fire-forks for a great space, in the mighty Spirit of God he spake to the Tyrant thus;

By the constant confession of this worthy and valiant Deacon, a Roman souldier was converted to the same faith, and desired to be baptized, whereupon he was called before the Judge, scourged, and afterwards beheaded.

About the same time Dionysius Bishop of Alexandria, with his three Deacons, were brought before Emilianus, Dionysia. banished. who told them of the cle­mency of the Emperor, and therefore required them to sacrifice to his gods, &c. to whom Dionysius answered, Divers men worship di­vers gods, but we, only that one God who is the Creator of all things, making our prayers to him uncessantly for the health of the Empe­ror, &c. Then said the President, Why can you not worship your own God and ours also? Dionysius replied. We worship only one God, as we have said; the President said, I see you are ingratefull persons, and regard not the Emperors clemency, therefore I banish you to Cephro in Lybia, and charge you that you convent no more your assemblies, nor be found out of that place at your peril, and though Dionysius was sick, yet would he not grant him one days respite before his depar­true.

[Page 58] In Cephro he had a great Congregation, as well of those that follow­ed him in his banishment, as of others that resorted to him out of E­gypt; yea, though at first he was persecuted there, and stoned, yet af­terwards a great number of the Inhabitants forsook their Idols,The power of the Word of God. and were converted unto God by his Ministry; and having accomplished his Ministry there, the Lord removed him to another place. For (saith Dionysius) Emilianus translated us from thence to a sharper place of Lybia, commanding us to meet all together at the City Mareota; in­tending to separate us into several villages, or rather to take us by the way; when we came thither, I was commanded to Colluthion, a place which I had never heard of; yet was it some solace to me that the bre­thren told me it was near to the City Paretonium: for as my being at Cephro gat me the acquaintance of many brethren of Egypt, Gods Provi­dence. so I ho­ped that the vicinity of that place to the City, might procure me the concourse of certain loving brethren from it, as it came also to pass, &c.

He writeth moreover that the number of those which suffered Mar­tyrdom about that time was great, men, women, young men, maidens, old wives, souldiers, and men of all sorts and ages; of whom some with scourgings,The cruel tor­ments of the Christians. and fire, and some with the sword, obtained the vi­ctory, and gat the Crown. Neither (saith he) to this day doth the Pre­sident cease cruelly murthering such as be brought before him, tearing some with torments, imprisoning others, and commanding that no man should come to them: yet God with the daily resort of the brethren doth comfort the afflicted.

In Palestine, Priscus, Malchus, and Alexander, three godly men, see­ing the valiant courage of the Christians so boldly to venture,Priscus, Mal­chus, Alexander con­stantly to stand, and patiently to suffer in this persecution, as grieved with themselves,Zeal. began to accuse their own sluggishness and cowardise, to see others so zealovs and valiant, and themselves so cold and faint-hearted, in labouring for the Crown of Martyrdom: whereupon, agreeing amongst themselves, they came to Caesarea, and stepping to the Judge, they declared themselves to be Christians, and so they were sentenced, and given to the wild beasts.

A certain woman also in the same place, formerly a Marcionist, being brought before the President, obtained the same Martyr­dom.

In Carthage three hundred Christians being brought before the Pre­sident,Three hundred Christians put into a lime-kiln. were put to their choice, either to offer sacrifice, or to go into a lime-kiln: whereupon by mutual consent, they all chose the lime-kiln, in which, with the smoak of the lime, they were smothered.

In another part of Africk, three godly Virgins had first vinegar and gall given them to drink,Three Virgins cruelly tor­mented. then were they scourged, then tormented upon the gibbet, and rubbed with lime, then were they scorched upon the fiery grid-iron, then cast to the wild beasts, which would not touch them, therefore lastly they were beheaded.

In Italy a godly man was first tormented with the rack, then cast [Page 59] to the wild beasts, which not hurting him, he was burned in the fire. Fructuosus a Bishop in Spain, with his two Deacons, having wit­nessed a good confession, were all of them burned in the fire.Fructuosus. But this cruel Emperor Valerian, who thus persecuted the Saints of God,Valerian Em [...]peror. short­ly after felt the revenging hand of God: for in an expedition that he made against the Persians, he was taken prisoner by Sapores the King, who made a foot-stool of him, every time that he gat upon his horse;Gods Judge­ment on perse­cutors. and at last by the command of the King he was flaied alive, powdered with salt, and so ended his wretched life. Also Claudius, a President and Minister of his persecutions, was possessed by the Devil, and bi­ting off his tongue in small pieces, he ended his wretched life. Also there were great & terrible Earth-quakes, and many commotions and Rebellions in sundry parts of the Empire, insomuch as Galienus, the son of Valerian, and his fellow Emperor, began to relent towards the Christians, and set forth some Edicts in their favour: notwithstanding which, some there were that suffered in sundry places; amongst whom was one Marinus, a noble man, and valiant Captain in Caesarea, Marinus. who stood for an honourable office which of right fell to him, but his Com­petitor to prevent him, accused him to the Judge to be a Christian. Hereupon the Judge examined him of his faith, and finding that in­deed he was a Christian, he gave him three hours to advise and delibe­rate with himself; then the Bishop of the place finding that he stood doubtfull in himself what to do, took him by the hand, and led him in­to the Church, and laid before him a sword and a New Testament, bidding him take his free choice, which of them he would have. Ma­rinus immediately ran to the New Testament, and chose that, and so being animated by the Bishop, he presented himself boldly before the Judge, by whose sentence he was beheaded.

About the same time there was in Caesarea, Asyrius, Asyrius. a noble Senator of Rome and a Christian, and whereas the Gentiles in that place used to offer sacrifice by a fountain side, which sacrifice by the working of the Devil, used suddenly to vanish out of their sight, to the great ad­miration of the deluded multitude;Satans subtilty Asyrius pitying their miserable ignorance, came amongst them, and lifting up his eyes to heaven, pray­ed to God in the name of Christ,Power of pray­er. that the people might no longer be thus seduced by the Devil, whereupon the sacrifice was seen to swin upon the fountain, and ever after that false miracle ceased.

After the death of Galienus there succeeded Claudius, a quiet Em­peror; and after him Quintilianus his brother,Peace in the Church. both which reigning nineteen years, the Church enjoyed peace in their time.

[Page 60] Here place the third Figure.

CHAP. XV. The ninth Primitive Persecution which began An. Christi, 278.

AFter the death of Quintillian, succeeded Aurelian in the Empire, who was by nature severe and rigorous, and a strict punisher of dissolute manners, so that it grew into a Proverb, That he was a good Physitian, saving that he gave too bitter Medicines. In the beginning of his reign, he was a moderate and discreet Prince, and no great distur­ber of the Christians, whom he neither molested in their Religion, nor in their Councels. But afterwards, through sinister suggestions of those which were about him, his nature being before inclinable to se­verity, he was altered to plain Tyranny, which he first shewed in the death of his own sisters son, and afterwards he raised the ninth perse­cution against the Church of Christ; but when he was about to sign a Proclamation or Edict for that persecution, it pleased God that a thun­derbolt fell so near him, that all men thought he had been slain, and the Emperor was so terrified thereby,A special Pro­vidence. that he gave over his Tyranni­cal purpose, so that he rather intended, then moved persecution. Having reigned about six years, he was slain.

After whose death divers other Emperors succeeded, in whose time the Church had peace for about the space of forty four years. During which time it did mightily increase and flourish: Yea, the more the Christians had suffered, the more they were honoured;P [...]ace causeth the Church to flourish. In­somuch as some of the Emperors did singularly favour them, prefer­red and made them Governors of Provinces.

Dorotheus, with his Wife, Children, and whole family, were ac­cepted, and highly advanced in the Emperors Court. Yea, Gorgonius, and divers others, for their Doctrine and Learning, were with their Princes in great estimation. The Bishops were also in great favour with the Rulers and Presidents where they lived; so that innumerable multitudes and Congregations assembled together in every City, and there were great concourses of such as daily flocked to the publick places of prayer.

But through this great prosperity, the Christians, by reason of the corruption of their natures, and the temptations of Satan,Sin the Fore­runner of per­secution. began to degenerate, and to grow idle and delicate, striving and contending amongst themselves, upon every occasion, with railing words bespat­tering one another in a despitefull manner; Bishops against Bishops, and people against people, moving hatred and sedition each against other: Besides, cursed hypocrisie and dissimulation increased more and more; by reason whereof Gods Judgements brake forth against them, which began first to fall upon those Christians which were souldiers; but that touched the other very little, neither did they seek [Page 62] to appease Gods wrath, nor to call for Mercy, but thinking that they should escape well enough, they heaped iniquities daily more and more,Contention amongst Chri­stians. one upon another. The Pastors being inflamed with mutual contention each against other; Then did the Lord raise up adversaries against his people, that rased their Churches to the ground, burnt the sacred Scriptures in the open Market places, made the Pastors of the Church to hide themselves, and some with great shame were taken Prisoners, and were mocked of their enemies, and put to open reproach.

CHAP. XVI. The tenth Primitive Persecution, which began Anno Christi, 308.

DIoclesian and Maximian having many wars, associated to them­selves two Caesars, Galerius, who was sent into the East against the Persians; and Constantius, who was sent into Britain, where he married Helena, the daughter of King Coel; a Maiden excelling in beau­ty, and no less famous for her Studies and Learning, by whom he had Constantine the Great.

These two Emperors having obtained many victories, were so puffed up with pride, that they ordained a solemn Triumph at Rome. After which, Dioclesian would needs be worshipped as God, saying, that he was brother to the Sun and Moon, and adoring his shoes with gold and precious stones,P [...]ide. he commanded the people to kiss his feet. Then also did he raise a great and grievous Persecution against the Church of God: and the Feast of Easter drawing nigh, he command­ed all the Churches of the Christians to be spoiled, and cast down, and the books of the holy Scriptures to be burnt,Bibles burnt. which was executed with all rigour and contempt that might be.

Then he sent forth his Edicts for the displacing of all Christian Magistrates,Cruel Edicts. and put all others out of their Offices, imprisoning such of the common people as would not abjure Christianity, and subscribe to the heathen Idolatries.

Then were cruel Edicts sent abroad for the imprisoning of the Elders and Bishops, and constraining them by sundry kinds of tor­ments to sacrifice to the Idols; whereupon insued a great persecution against the Governors of the Church, amongst whom many of them manfully passed through exceeding bitter torments:Horrible tor­ments. Some were scourg­ed all over their bodies with whips: some with racks and tearings of their flesh, were exceedingly cruciated: some one way, others another way were put to death.

Some were violently drawn to the impure sacrifices, and as though [Page 63] they had sacrificed, when indeed they did not, were let go. Others neither coming to their Altars; nor touching any piece of their sacri­fice, yet were born in hand by those which stood by, that they had sa­crificed; and so being defamed by their adversaries, were let go.False Accusa­tions of Chri­stians. Others as dead men were carried out, and cast away, being but half dead.

Some were cast down on the pavement, and trailed a great space by the legs, and the people made to believe that they had sacrificed; Others with-stood them, stoutly affirming with a loud voice, that they had not sacrificed; withal saying, that they were Christians, and glo­rying in the profession of that name.

Some cryed that they neither had, nor ever would be partakers of that Idolatry,Courage. who were buffetted on the face and mouth by the soul­diers, that they might hold their peace. But if the Saints seemed ne­ver so little to do what their enemies would have them, they were made much of;Humane infir­mity. yet none of these devices prevailed against the con­stant servants of Jesus Christ; but of the weaker sort, through frailty, many fell at the first brunt.

When these Edicts were first set up at Nicomedia, a Christian, a noble man born, moved with an holy zeal, ran, and took them down,Zeal. and tare them in pieces, though the Emperors were present in the Ci­ty; for which he was put to a most bitter death, which with great constancy and patience, he endured to the last.

These furious Tyrants, Dioclesian in the West, and Maximian in the East, raged exceedingly against the poor Saints of Christ. But Dio­clesian proceeded more subtilly,Subtilty. first beginning with the souldiers in his Camp: to whom the Marshal of the field proposed that they should either offer sacrifice, or leave their places and offices, and lay down their arms; whereunto the Christians resolutely answered, that they were not only ready to lay down their weapons, but to suffer death, if it was imposed upon them,Constancy. rather then so to sin against God.

In the beginning of this persecution, few were tormented, but af­terwards the Emperor grew to greater cruelty. It cannot be expres­sed what number of Martyrs suffered; what blood was shed through all Cities and Regions for the name of Christ.

In Tyre certain Christians were given to the most cruel wild beasts, which would not hurt them; and the Lions, Bears and Leopards,A miracle of Mercy. which were kept hungry for the purpose, would not touch them: Yet did they vehemently rage against those that brought the Christians into the stage, who though they stood, as they thought, without their reach, yet were they caught, and devoured by them. Afterwards these Martyrs were slain with the sword, and cast into the sea.

Silvanus, Bishop of Gazenses, with thirty nine more, were slain in the Mettal-Mynes. Pamphilus of Caesarea, dyed a glorious Martyr.Silvanus. Pamphilus.

In Syria, all the chief Pastors were first cast into prison, together with the Bishops, Elders and Deacons:Tiranion. Tiranion was throwen into [Page 64] the sea.Zenobius. Zenobius a Physitian was slain with Brickbats.

At Antioch two young Maidens were thrown into the sea. Also an aged Matron, and her two beautifull daughters, being sought af­ter, and at last found, rather then they would be drawn to do sacrifice, threw themselves head-long into a river.Sylvanus. Sylvanus Bishop of Emissa, with some others were thrown to the wild beasts.

The Christians in Mesopotamia were tormented divers ways: some of them were hanged up by the feet, and with the smoak of a small fire strangled. So out-ragious was the Emperor in the beginning of this Persecution, that in Nicomedia he slew the chiefest Princes of his Court, whom a little before he prized as his own Children.

Also one Peter was hoisted up naked, and so beaten, and torn with whips,Peter. that his bones might be seen; then they poured upon him salt and Vinegar, and lastly rosted him with a soft fire. Dorotheus and Gor­gonius, Dorotheus. Gorgonius. men of great Authority under the Emperor, after divers tor­ments were strangled with an halter. Anthimus, Bishop of Nicomedia, with divers others,Anthimus. having made a good confession, were beheaded. Yea,Serena, Diocle­sian's wife. Serena, the wife of Dioclesian the Emperor, was martyred for her Religion. Some others were bound hand and foot to a post, and so burnt.

Also many Christians of all ages and sorts, being met together in a Church, to celebrate the memorial of Christs Nativity, Maximian the Emperor sent some to fire the Church, and burn them all; But first they commanded a Cryer to proclaim, that whosoever would have life, should come out, and sacrifice to Jupiter, otherwise they should be all burnt; then one stepping up boldly, in the name of all the rest, said, We are all Christians, and believe that Christ is our only God and King, and we will sacrifice to none but him; hereupon the fire was kindled, and some thousands of men, women and children were burnt in that place.Christians burnt in a Church.

In Arabia many Martyrs were slain with Axes. In Phrygia, the Em­peror sent his Edicts to a City, commanding them to sacrifice to the Idols: but the Major, and all the Citizens professed themselves to be Christians, whereupon the Emperor made his Army environ the City, and set it on fire,A Christian City burnt. whereby all the inhabitants were burnt together in it.

Eustratius an Armenian, and skilfull in the Greek tongue, highly honoured and advanced by the Emperor,Eustratius, a Persecutor converted and martyred. who also had executed many Christians; beholding the marvellous constancy of the Martyrs, privately learned the Christian Religion, burned exceedingly with a desire of Martyrdom, and not staying for Accusers, professed himself to be a Christian, openly execrating the vanity and madness of the heathens; Being therefore apprehended, he was tied up, and bitterly beaten; afterwards he was parched with fire put to his bowels, then basted with salt and vinegar, then scraped and bemangled with sharp cutting shels, that his whole body seemed to be but one wound, yet af­terwards, through Gods goodness, it was restored again whole. And lastly was he burned.

[Page 65] In Alexandria, Peter the Bishop,Peter. and his Deacons constantly suffered Martyrdom: as also many other Bishops in Egypt, together with many fa­mous and excellent men, suffered about the same time.

A whole legion of Christian souldiers, that lay at Thebes in Egypt, un­der their Christian Col▪ Mauritius, A legion of Christians martyred. because they refused to sacrifice to I­dols, were first tithed over by the Emperours command, once, and again and afterwards, by the exhortation of Mauritius, they died all together constant Martyrs.

The persecution raged not only in Asia and Africa, but also in Italy, France, Spain, &c. in all which countries an innumerable company of Christians were martyred by sundry kindes of death. In Trevers were so many Christians slain, that their bloud ran like small brooks, and dis­coloured great rivers; yet this sufficed not the Tyrant, but he sent abroad his horsemen to command all those which had apprehended any Christi­ans, immediately to put them to death.Inhumane c [...]uelty.

At Collen also, and in Rhetia many were martyred: yea, this perse­cution extended into our Britan, where all the Christians were put to death.

Besides the kindes of death, the punishments were so great and hor­rible as no tongue is able to express: as whippings, scourgings,Cruel tor­ments. rack­ings, horrible scrapings, sword, fire, shipboats, whereinto many were put and sunk into the sea: Also hanging upon crosses, binding some to the bodies of trees with their heads hanging downward, hanging others by the middle upon gallowses till they died of hunger: throwing others alive to Lions, Bears, Leopards, wilde Buls, &c. Pricking others with bodkins and talons of beasts till they were almost dead.

In Thebaide, they hanged up women naked by one of their feet, the rest of their body hanging downwards, with many other sorts of punish­ments most cruell to be thought of: Some were bound to the boughs of trees, and had their members torn asunder, others were mangled with axes, some choaked with smoak over a slow fire, some had their hands, ears, and feet cut off, others were scorched and broiled upon coals, yet not to death, but had the torment renued every day.

In Pontus the Martyrs had other horible torments inflicted on them, Some had their fingers-ends under the nails thrust in with bodkins: Some were sprinkled all over with boiling lead, having their necessary members cut from them, others suffred most filthy and intolerable torments in their bowels, and privy members: what the outrage of this persecution was in Alexandria, Phileas a Bishop thus wri­teth,

Because (saith he) every man might torment the holy Martyrs as he listed, some beat them with cudgels, some with rods, some with whips,Hellish cruelty. some with thonges, some with cords, some having there hands bound behind them were lifted upon timber-logs, and with certaine instru­ments had their members and joints stretched out, where their bodies hanging, were subjected to the will of the tormentors, who were com­manded to afflict them with all manner of torments: on their sides, [Page 66] bellies, thighs, legges, they scratched them with the claws of wilde beasts: some were hanged but by on hand one the engine, that they might feel the more grievous pulling out of the rest of their members: Some were bound to pillars, having no stay under their feet, that w [...]th the weight of their bodies being drawn out, they might feel the greater torment: and these torments endured all day long; the Judge com­manding that they should not be let down, till either by the extremity of torment, or by the cold, they were near death; and then they were let down, and haled upon the ground.

They devised also another greater torment, for when the Christians were lamentably beaten, they had a new kinde of rack, wherein they lying upright, were stretched by both the feet above the fourth hole, with sharp shels strawed under them. Others were cast down upon the pavement, where they had so many torments inflicted upon them, that their sufferings cannot be imagined what they were: In the midst of which torments some died,Admirable pa­tience. their enemies being confounded with their singular patience.

Some half dead were thrust into prisons, where, with their wounds and pain they ended their lives: Others being cured of their wounds, were again put to their choice; whether they would sacrifice to the Idols, and have their liberty, or have the sentence of death pass upon them, who did willingly chuse death for Christs sake, rather then to sin against him.

In Nicomedia, a Christian pulling down, and tearing the Emperors Edict, was stript and beaten till the bones appeared, and then washed in salt and vinegar, under which torments he died. Yet notwithstanding the horribleness of these tortures, the Christian Martyrs were so farre from being dismaied,Courage and constancy. that they were confirmed and strengthned there­by, merrily and joyfully undergoing whatsoever was inflicted upon them.

Eusebius saith, that himself saw the cruel Persecution in Thebade, where the swords of the Persecutors were blunted with the great slaugh­ter of the Christians,Tormentors wearied. and they sat down with weariness to rest them, whilest others took their places. Yet still the Christians shewed their willingness, and with courage, joy and smiling, received their sent [...]nce of death from the Judge, and to the last gasp, sang Psalms and Hymns of praise to God.

In Alexandria the holy Martyrs led with the love of better rewards, did not only bear the menaces of the cruel souldiers, wherewith they threatned them, but also whatsoever torments they could devise for their destruction: Yea saith Sulpitius; then the Christians with more greedy desire pressed and sought for Maryrdom,Humane infir­mity. then now they do for Bishopricks. Yet some through infirmity in this Persecution fell back, for which they were excommunicated by the Church.

Damasus and others witness, that there were slain in thirty daies, seventeen thousand persons, besides a great number that were condem­ned to the Metall-mines and quarries, with the like cruelty.

[Page 67] In Alexandria were slain with axes three hundred:The story of Mauritius and his legion. At Collen three hundred. Mauritius with his Christian legion, six thousand six hundred sixty six, whose story, deserving perpetually to be remembred, is this:

Maximian sent for his Mauritius with his legion of Thebane soul­diers, under a pretence of imploying them against his enemies: When they came to Rome, Marcellus, the Blessed bishop, laboured to confirm them in the truth, to whom they promised perseverance in the faith unto the death. Then they followed they Imperial army into France, and when they were cowe thither, Maximian offered sacrifice to the devils, and called all his souldiers to the same, strictly charging them to fight against his enemies, and against the Christians which were enemies to his gods. These Christian Thebans resolved rather to die▪ then to sacrifice, or to bear arms against the Christians, wherewith the Tyrant being enraged, commanded every tenth man of the legion to be put to the sword, hereupon they strove who should submit their necks to the stroke. Mauritius encouraged them greatly hereunto, and being called before the Emperour, he said; Wee, O Emperour, your soul­diers, and yet the servants of God, owe thee service of war, A most Chri­stian speech. but to him innocency; of thee we receive wages, but of him life; therefore we cannot obey thee to deny God our Lord and yours also, will ye nil ye: We are ready to obey you, if you enforce us not to disobey him: Otherwise we will rather obey him then you: We offer here our hands against any other enemies, but to defile our hands with the bloud of innocents, we may not: These hands of ours have [...]kil to fight against wicked enemies, but not to murther godly friends, &c. We have engaged our faith to God, we cannot be true to you, if we break covenant with him, &c. We see our brethren and fellows in arms, cruelly put to the sword, which we rejoyce in, that they have been counted worthy to suffer for Christs sake, &c. Behold here we cast down our weapons, and had rather to be killed, then to kill, and to die guiltlesse then to live guilty: We are ready to suffer what more you shall appoint, yea b [...]th fire, sword, or any other torments. We confesse our selves, to be Christians, wee cannot persecute Christians, nor sacrifice to your devillish Idols. The Em­perour being highly incensed with this answer commanded the second time the tenth man to be slain, which being accomplished, when the Christian souldiers would not yet condescend to his minde, he set up­on them with his whole host, both of foot and horse, charging them to kill them all; the Christians made no resistance, but throwing down their arms, offered their naked necks to the persecutors, and so were all slain.

At that time, one Victor, an old souldier, that for his age was dis­missed, coming to the Army, as they were banquetting and making mer­ry with the spoils of the Martyrs, was bidden to sit down with them, but he asked them what was the cause of there mirth, and understanding the trut [...], he detested them, and refused to eat with them;Christian cou­rage. and being there­upon demanded whether he were a Christian? he answered that he was and ever would be. Then they rushed upon him; and made him partaker, of the lik Martyrdom and honour.

[Page 68] When Dioclesian and Maximian, notwithstanding all the slaughter which they made, saw the number of Christians rather increased then diminished, so that they were out of all hope of utter rooting them out, and having now even their fill of blood, they ceased at last of their own accord from putting any more Christians to death:The mercies of the wicked are cruelty. Yet of a great multitude, they thrust out their right eies, and maimed their right legs at the ham, with a searing iron, condemning them to the Metal-mynes, not so much for their labour, as desirous to afflict them there­by: and so having raigned together about one and twenty years, Di­oclesian divested himself of the imperial Dignity, and lived a private life, and the like did Maximian also, resigning the Empire to Galerius Maximinus, and Constantius.

Maximinus was of a cruel Nature, a great Enchanter, vicious in his life, and a great enemy to the Christians, and therefore continued the Persecution of them, yet at length was revoked from his cruelty by the just Judgement of God upon him; For he was suddenly taken with an horrible and filthy disease,Gods judge­ments on per­secutors. which first began outwardly in his flesh: and then proceeded more inwardly: his privy members putrified with a botchy corrupt boil, and a fistula consuming, and eating up his En­trails, whence swarmed forth an innumerable company of lice, with such a pestiferous stink, that no man could abide him; he being also very gross, his fat putrified, and stank intollerably; and because his Physitians could not abide the stink, he commanded them to be slain: others of them, because they could not cure his incurable disease, he put them to cruel deaths.

At last being told that his disease came from God, he began to be­think himself of all the cruelty which he had shewed to the Saints, confessed his offences to God, and gave command that the Persecuti­on against the Christians should cease; requiring his Officers likewise to re-edifie their Temples,Hypocrisie. and requesting them to pray to their God for him.

This Edict much comforted and refreshed the Christians, who thereupon gathered together in every City, called their Synods and Councels; yea, the Infidels themselves extolled and magnified the true God of the Christians.

But this Tyrant Maximinus scarce suffered this peace to continue six moneths together, but again he forbad the Christians to meet, and privately stirred up the Athenians to petition him that none of them might be suffered to live in their City: Also a Conjurer in Athens made an Image of Jupiter, which uttered these words, Jupiter commandeth the Christians to be banished out of this City and Suburbs, because they are enemies to him. Also certain harlots were suborned to say, that they formerly were Christians, and privy to the wicked and lascivious acts which they exercised amongst themselves, upon Sabbath daies, &c. And thereupon the Emperor commanded that they should put them to death by all means possible. Then did the Persecution grow as great as ever it was, and the Governors of every Province fell upon [Page 69] the Christians▪ banishing some, and putting others to death.

Silvanus Bishop of Emissa, a very old man, and three others with him, were condemned to death. So was Lucianus, Silvanus. Lucianus. Peter. Quirinus. an Elder at An­tioch. At Alexandria, Peter the Bishop was beheaded. Quirinus Bi­shop of Scescanus had an hand-mill tied about his neck, and was thrown head-long into a river: where yet he floted a great while, exhorting the lookers on not to be dismaid with his punishment, and so with much ado, was at last drowned.

At Rome, many Bishops, Ministers and Elders were put to death. In sundry other places very many others suffered martyrdom with fire, wild beasts, drowning in the sea, &c. Some were crucified, some were slain with the sword;Cruel torments some endured the cutting and burning of their members; some had their eyes thrust out; some were starved in prisons, and whatsoever other cruelty the Magistrates could devise; All which the people of God endured, rather then they would offer sacrifice to the Idols. The like miseries did the women also endure, for being inticed to the filthy use of their bodies, some rather chose banishment, and others to prevent it, killed themselves.

Neither could Christians live safely in the wilderness, but even from thence they were drawn to torments and death.

And whereas the Tyrant in his Edict had boasted of the plenty and prosperity of all things in the time of his persecuting of the Saints, God to confute him, presently sent great drought,Gods judge­ments on perse­cutors. famine and pesti­lence, besides the wars with the Armenians; by which calamities, the people were miserably wasted; corn was sold at an unreasonable rate, so that exceeding great multitudes died of hunger in the Cities, but far more in the villages; most part of the husband-men dying of famine and the pestilence. Divers brought out their best treasure,A terrible fa­mine. and gave it for any kind of sustenance, though never so little. Others ha­ving sold their possessions for food, fell into extream misery: Some did eat grass, others fed upon unwholsom herbs, whereby they hurt and poisoned their bodies: Many women were driven to leave the Cities, and beg up and down through the countrey: some through faintness fell down in the streets, and holding up their hands, cryed miserably for some scraps or fragments of bread, being ready to give up the Ghost; and being able to say no more, they cryed, Hungry, hungry.

Some of the richer sort being tired with serving such multitudes of beggers, began to grow hard-hearted, fearing lest themselves should fall into the like misery: By reason whereof the Market-places, streets, and lanes, lay full of dead corpses, and naked bodies were cast out un­buried, many of which were devoured by dogs, whereupon they which lived, fell to killing of the dogs, lest running mad, they should fall upon them, and kill them.

The pestilence also scattering through all houses, killed very many, especially those of the richer sort, which escaped the famine, whereby innumerable Magistrates,Pestilence. Princes and Presidents were quickly dis­patched, so that all places were filled with mourning, and nothing [Page 70] was seen or heard but weeping and wailing every where. Death so reigned in every family, that two or three dead bodies were carried out of one house together. But notwithstanding that these miscreants had been so cruel to them,Charity of Christians▪ yet the Christians were very diligent and charitable to them in all their extremities, travelling every day, some in curing the sick; some in burying of their dead; others called the multitude together, which were ready to famish, and distributed bread unto them, whereby they occasioned them to glorifie the God of the Christians, and con [...]essed them to be the true worshippers of God, as appeared by their works: and hereby the Lord wrought wonderfully for the peace of his Church, for after he had corrected them, he again shewed th [...]m mercy.

Constantine succeeding his father, overcame Maxentius the Tyrant in Rome, and he together with Licinius set forth Edicts in favour of the Christians: See Constantines life in my second part of lives. Yet Maxi­minus continued his persecution in the East, whereupon Constantine and Licinius wrote to him to favour the Christians, and he finding that he was too weak to encounter with them, sent forth his Edicts to stop the persecution: yet afterwards he picked new quarrels with them, and began to persecute them again: whereupon Licinius went against him, and overthrew him in a battell: Then did Maximinus kill many of his enchanters and conjurers that had encouraged him, and promised him victory.

Shortly after the Lord striking him with a grievous disease, he glorified the God of the Christians,Gods judge­ments on per­secutors. and made a Law for the safety and preservation of them: yet not long after by the vehemency of his disease, he ended his life.

Hypocrisie. Licinius, that for a long time had pretended to the Christian religion, and lived in great familiarity with Constantine, who had given him his sister Constantia to be his wife, began afterwards to discover his hypocri­sie, and the wickednesse of his nature, secretly conspiring the death of Constantine: but the Lord discovering and preventing his conspiracies, he then fell out with him, and manifested his hatred of the Christian religion, being puffed up with the victory that he had got against Maximinus.

He quarrelled with the Christians, because as he said, they praied not for him, but for Constantine: and thereupon he first banished them all from his Court: then he deprived all the Knights of their honou­rable order,Wicked Laws. except they would sacrifice to devils: then he command­ed that the Bishops should have no meetings to consult about their Ec­clesiastical affairs: nor that any Christians should come to the Church­es, or hold any assemblies: then that men and women should not meet together to pray, that women should not hear the Bishops, but chuse out women to instruct them: then that none should help or succour those that were in prison, nor should bestow any alms upon them, though they should die for hunger, and that they which shewed any compassion to those which were condemned to death, should suffer the [Page 71] like punishment themselves; then he persecuted the Bishops, and slew those which were the most eminent of them: the flattering officers also which were about him, thinking to please him thereby, slew many Bi­shops without any cause: yea many of their bodies they cut into gobbets, and threw them in to the sea to feed fishes: Some were banished,Cru [...]lty. others had their goods confiscated; many noblemen and gentlemen were privily made away: and Licinius gave their unmarried daughters to wicked varlets to be defloured, himself also violated many women, both wives and maidens.

This cruelty made many godly persons voluntarily to forsake their houses, and to live in woods, mountains, and desarts: He caused The­odorus to be hanged upon a crosse, to have nails thrust into his arm-pits,Theodorius. and afterwards to be beheaded: Divers other Bishops had their hands cut off with a fearing iron. In Sebastia fourty Christian souldiers in the vehe­ment cold winter were cast into an Horse-pond, where they ended their lives: the wives of these fourty men were carried to Heraclea, where, to­gether with a Deacon of that place, after they had suffered innumerable torments, they were slain with the sword.

Constantine being informed of all this wickednesse, raised an Army, went against him, overcame him twice, and at last caused him to be put to death, as you may see in Constantines life in my second part: whereby the Church obtained a generall peace.

Yet in this tenth Persecution many other eminent Christians suffered Martryrdom, besides those before-named.

Galerius in his time invaded Antioch, intending to force all Christi­ans to renounce Christ, at what time they were assembled together, whereupon one Romanus ran to them, declaring that the wolves were at hand, which would devour them, yet he exhorted them not to fear by reason of the perill; and, through Gods grace, the Christians were greatly encouraged by him, so that old men and matrons, fathers, mothers, young men and maidens were all of one minde, being wil­ling to shed their bloud in defence of their profession: A band of armed men were sent against them, which were not able to wrest the staff of faith out of their hands: hereupon they sent word to their Captain, that they could not inforce the Christians to deny their faith, by rea­son of Romanus who did so mightily encourage them: then did the Captain command that he should be brought before him, which was done accordingly; What (saith the Captain) art thou the author of this sedition? art thou the cause that so many lose there lives? By the Gods I swear thou shalt answer for them all, and shalt suffer those torments that thou encouragest them to undergo; Romanus answered, Thy sentence, O Em­perour, I willingly embrace, I refuse not to be sacrificed for my brethren, Romanus's no­ble courage. and that by as cruel torments as thou canst invent. &c. The Captain being much enraged with this his stout Answer, commanded him to be trussed up, and his bowels drawn out, whereupon the Executioners said, Not so Sir, this man is of noble parentage, and therefore he may not be put to so ignoble a death: Scourge him then (quoth the Cap­tain) [Page 72] with whips with knobs of lead at the ends: but Romanus sang Psalms all the time of his whipping, requiring them not to favour him for nobilities sake; Not the bloud of progenitors, (saith he) but the Christian profession makes me noble:True nobility. then did he earnestly inveigh against the Captain, and derided their Idoll gods, &c. but this further enraged the Tyrant, so that he commanded his sides to be lanced with knives, till the bones were laid open: yet still did the holy Martyr preach the living God, and the Lord Jesus Christ to him: then did the Tyrant command them to strike out his teeth, that his speech might be hin­dered; also his face was buffeted, his eye-lids torn with their nails, his cheeks gashed with knives, the skin of his beard pulled off by litle and little,Note. &c. yet the meek Martyr said, I thank thee O Captain, that thou hast opened to me so many mouths as wounds, whereby I may preach my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ: look how many wounds I have, so many mouths I have, lauding and praising God: The Captain astonished at his constancy, bad them give over tormenting him: yet he threatned to burn him, reviled him,Blasphemy. and blasphemed God, saying, thy crucified Christ is but a yesterdaies God, the gods of the Gentiles are of greatest anti­quity: But Romanus taking occasion from hence, declared to him the eternity of Christ, &c. withall saying, Give me a child of seven years old, and thou shalt hear what he will say; hereupon a pretty boy was called out of the multitude, to whom Romanus said, Tell me my pret­ty babe, whether thou think it reason that we worship Christ, and in Christ one Father, or else that we worship infinite gods? the child answered, that certainly what we affirm to be God must needs be one, which with one, is one and the same; and inasmuch as this one is Christ, of necessi­ty Christ must be the true God: for that there be many gods, we children cannot beleeve: The Captain amazed at this, said, thou young villain and traitor, where, and of whom learnedst thou this lesson? of my mother, said he, with whose milk I sucked in this lesson, that I must believe in Christ: The mother was called, and she gladly appeared: the Tyrant commanded the child to be horsed up,A child tor­mented. and scourged: the standers by beholding this mercilesse act, could not refrain from tears; the joyfull and glad mother alone stood by with dry cheeks, yea, she rebuked her sweet babe, for desiring a cup of cold water, charging him to thirst after the cup that the babes of Bethlem once drunk of; She willed him to remember little Isaac, who willingly proferred his neck to the [...]int of his fathers sword, &c. Then did the cruell tormen­tor pull off the skin, hair and all from the crown of the childes head: the mother crying, Suffer my child, anon thou shalt passe to him that will adorn thy head with a crown of eternall glory: thus the mo­ther councelleth and encourageth, the childe is encouraged, and re­ceiveth the stripes with a smiling countenance. The Captain seeing the childe invincible, and himself vanquished, commands him to be cast into the stinking prison, whilest the torments of Romanus were renewed and encreased: Then was Romanus brought forth again, to receive new stripes upon his old sores, the flesh being torn, and the [Page 73] bare bones appearing: yet the cruell Tyrant raging like a mad man, quarelling with the tormentors for dealing so mildely with him, com­manding them to cut, prick, and pounce him: and then he passed sen­tence upon him, together with the childe to be burned to death: to whom Romanus said, I appeal from this unjust sentence of thine to the righ­teous throne of Christ, that upright Judge, An appeal to Christ. not because I fear thy cruell tor­ments, and mercilesse handling, but that thy Judgements may be known to be cruell and bloudy.

When they came to the place of execution, the tormentors required the childe of his mother, for she had carried it in her arms from the prison;The childes Martyrdom. She kissing it, delivered it to them, and as the executioner was striking off his head, she said, farewell my sweet childe:

The childes head being cut off, the mother wrapt it in her garment, laid it to her brest, and so departed. Then was Romanus cast into a mighty fire, which being quenched with a great storm, the Tyrant com­manded his tongue to be cut out, and afterwards caused him to be strang­led in the prison.

Gordius, a Centurion in Caesarea, in the heat of this persecution, left his charge, living a solitary life in a wilderness for a long time:Gordius. at last when a solemn feast was celebrated to Mars in that city, and multi­tudes of people were assembled in the Theatre▪ to see the games, he came, and gat up into a conspicuous place, and with a loud voice said, Behold, I am found of those which sought me not, &c. the multitude here­upon looked about to see who it was that spake this, and Gordius being known, he was immediatly brought before the Sheriff, and being as­ked who, and what he was, and why he came thither? he told him the whole truth, professing that he believed in Christ, valued not their threatnings, and chose this as a fit time to manifest his profession in: then did the Sheriff call for scourges, gibbets, and all manner of tor­ments: to whom Gordius answered, that it would be a losse and da­mage to him,Courage. if he did not suffer divers torments and punishments for Christ and his cause: the Sheriff more incensed hereby, commanded all those torments to be inflicted on him: with which Gordius could not be overcome, but sang, The Lord is my helper, I will not fear what man can do unto me: and I will fear no evill, because thou Lord art with me, &c. then did he blame the tormentors for favouring him; pro­voking them to do their uttermost:Flattery. then the Sheriff not prevaling that way, sought by flattery to seduce him, promising him preferment, riches, treasures, honour, &c. if he would deny Christ: but Gordius derided his foolish madness, saying, that he looked for greater preferment in heaven, then he could give him here upon earth: then was he condemn­ed, and had out of the city to be burnt: Multitudes followed him,Constancy. and some Kissing him, with tears entreated him to pity himself, to whom [Page 74] he answered, Weep not I pray you for me, but for the enemies of God, which fight against the Christians; weep I say for them which prepare a fire for us, purchasing hell-fire thereby for themselves in the day of vengeance: and cease I pray you thus to molest my quiet and setled mind: for truly for the name of Christ I am ready to suffer a thousand deaths, &c. Others perswa­ded him to deny Christ with his mouth, and to keep his conscience to himself▪ My tongue (saith he) which by Gods goodnesse I have, cannot be brought to deny the author and giver of the same; for with the heart we beleeve unto righteousnesse, and with the tongue we confesse unto salvation: and thus perswading and encouraging the people to be willing to die in the like cause, with an unappalled countenance, he willingly gave him­self to be burnt.

MenasAlso Menas an Egyptian, and a souldier by profession, in this persecuti­on, forsook all, and went into a desart, where he gave himself to fast­ing, prayer, meditation, and reading of the Scriptures: at last returning into the city of Cotis, when the people were at their pastimes, he with a loud voice proclaimed himself to be a Christian, and thereupon was carried before the President, and being demanded of his faith, he said, Convenient it is that I confesse God in whom is light, and no darknesse; for with the heart we beleeve to righteousnesse, and with the mouth confession is made to salvation: Then was he pinched and excruciated with sundry torments:Note. But (said he) there is nothing in my minde that can be com­pared to the Kingdom of heaven, neither is all the world, if it were weighed in a balance, comparable to the price of one soul; and further said, Who can separate us from the love of Christ? can tribulation, or anguish? &c. and again, I have learned of my Lord Christ not to feare them that can kill the body, and have no power to kill the soul, &c. Having endured manifold torments, he received the sentence of death, and at the place of execu­tion, he said, I give thee thanks, my Lord God, which hast accepted me to be a partaker of thy precious death, and hast not suffered me to be devoured of my fierce enemies, but hast made me constant in thy true faith unto the end: and so he lost hi [...] head, but found a crown.

Basil relates a story, that the Emperours officer brought the Edict against the Christians to a place to be published, and then privily sub­orned some to detect and accuse the Christians: then he caused the sword, gibbet, wheel, and whips to be brought forth, at the sight whereof the hearts of all the beholders did shake and tremble: Some for fear fled, others stood in doubt what to do: Some again for fear denied their faith,Humane infir­mity. others suffered cruell torments, but at last vanquish­ed by the intollerable pain, they made shipwrack of their consciences, and lost the glory of their confession.

Fourty young gentlemen.Amongst others, fourty young gentlemen that were souldiers, free­ly and boldly confessed themselves to be Christians, declaring to the Marshall their names, who amazed at this their boldnesse, stood in doubt what to do: then he assaied with fair words and flatteries to win them, perswading them to consider their youth, and not to change a pleasant life for a painfull and untimely death,Tenta [...]ion of flattery. promising them ho­nour, [Page 75] money, &c. But they boldly answered, that they neither desired, money, honour, nor life, but only the celestiall Kingdom of Christ, for the love of which they were ready to endure the wheel, crosse, fire, &c. The Marshall being much offended herewith, devised a new torment; for spying a pond in the street that did lie open to the Northen winde, it being in the cold winter time, he caused them to be put into it all night; but they being merry, comforted one another as they put off their clothes, saying, We put not off now our cloths, but our old man, corrupt with the deceit of concupiscence, for which we blesse and praise God: for by meanes of the serpent we once put on the old man, but by the means of Jesus Christ we now put him off: and being brought naked to the place, where they felt the vehement cold, they were put into the pond, so that all their members were stark and stiffe with it: and as soon as it was day, they hauing breath yet remaining in them, were brought to the fire, wherein they were consumed into ashes, which ashes were thrown into the floud.

It happened that one of the company being more lively,A mother en­courageth her son to die. and not so near death as the rest, the executioners pitied him, and delivered him to his mother who stood by, to save his life: but she led him to the piles of wood where the other starved creatures lay ready to be burnt, admonishing him to accomplish the blessed journey he had taken in hand, which accordingly he did, and was burnt with his companions.

Syrus a Physician of Alexandria, in this persecution fled into Syria, where he lived a private life,Cyrius. John. Athanasia. unto whom one John a souldier adjoined himlelf: but not long after one Athanasia with her three daughters, be­ing virgins, were cast into prison at Canope in Egypt for the profession of their faith: Cyrus being of their acquaintance, fearing lest through in­firmity they should fall, he together with his partner John went thither to the prison to comfort and confirm them, for which he was accused to the President, who thereupon condemned them all, and so they were beheaded.

Sebastian also borne in France, and Captain of the avaunt-guard of the Emperour,Sebastian encouraged many Martyrs by his exhortations unto con­stancy, and kept them in the faith, for which being accused to the Em­perour, he caused him to be brought forth into the open field, where by his own souldiers he was thrust through with arrows.

Basil also maketh mention of one Barlaam, Barlaam: who having endured all sorts of tortures to the point of death, was then by the tormentors laid upon the altar, and they put fire and frankincense in his right hand, hoping that the burning of the fire would have forced him to scatter the incense upon the altar, and so to have sacrificed: but his hand, endu­ring the fire, remained steady, the Martyr in the mean time singing, Blessed be the Lord my God which teacheth my hands to fight, &c.

Ambrose mentioneth one Agricola and Vitalis his servant, who agreed betwixt themselves, to give their lives, with other Martyrs,Vitalis▪ for the name of Christ; Vitalis first offering himself to Martyrdom, [Page 76] the persecutors laboured by all means to draw him to deny Christ, but not prevailing,Constancy. they exercised upon him all sorts of torments, so that he had no whole skin left on all his body: Vitalis in the midst of his sufferings, having by prayer commended himself to God, gave up the ghost. Then was Agricola set upon by the tormentors, whose vertuous life and gentle conditions,Agricola. had won him such respect, that they delayed tormenting of him, but he provoking them to make quicker speed, they fastened him to the crosse, where he finished his Martyrdom.

Augustine writes of one Vincentius a Spaniard, who by Dacianus the President was first laid upon the rack,Vincentius. till all the joints of his body crackt, then were all his members slasht and indented with deadly wounds; then they miserably scratched all his body with iron combs, filed very sharp;Horrible cru­elty. then they laid his body, being all out of joint, upon an iron grate, opened it with iron hooks, seared it with fiery plates, and then besprinkled it with hot burning salt: lastly they drew him, and cast him into a vile dungeon, the floore whereof was thick-spread with the sharpest shels, his feet were fast locked in the stocks, and so left him without all wordly comfort;Joy unspeak­able. but the Lord his God was with him, the holy Spirit of God, whose office it is to comfort the afflicted, filled his heart with joy unspeakable; so that he there ended his life with much comfort.

Procopius.Also Procopius in Palestine, after his conversion, brake his Images of gold and silver, and distributed them amongst the poor; where­upon he had all sorts of torments inflicted on him, racking, cording, tearing of his flesh, firing, goring, stabbing, and lastly had his head cut off.

Georg. Zeal. George, a young man of Cappadocia, stoutly inveighing against the impious Idolatry of the Emperor, was apprehended, torn with hooked irons, burnt with hot lime, stretched out with cords, after had his hands and feet cut off, and lastly was beheaded.

Hermogenes. Hermogenes the President of Athens, being converted by beholding the patience and constancy of two Martyrs in their torments, suffered himself for the same faith.

In Portugall a noble virgin named Eulalia, not much above twelve years old,Eulalia. had profers of great marriages made unto her, but she seeing the f [...]rious rage of this Persecution, had a great minde to join her self to the number of the Martyrs, for which end she poured out her heart in prayer to God for strength and faith to enable her thereunto: But her godly parents fearing that her ready minde to die for Christs cause, might make her guilty of her own death, they kept her close at their country-house, a great way from the City; there she lived quietly for a while; but at last, detesting to make such dealy, she stole out of her fathers house in the night, and travelled all alone through by­waies, with much difficulty and wearinesse towards the City, whi­ther she came in the morning, and going before the Judge▪ she with a loud voice said,Zeal. I pray you, What a shame is it for you thus wickedly to kill [Page 77] mens souls, and to breake their bodies in pieces, to compell them to deny the omnipotent God? Would you know what I am? I am a Christian, and an enemy to your devilish sacrifices, I spurn your Idols under my feet, I con­fesse God omnipotent with my heart and mouth, &c. Go to therefore thou hangman, burne, cut and mangle these my earthly members; thou maist easily break a brittle substance, but thou canst not hurt my inward minde by any thing thou canst doe. The Judge enraged herewith, said to the hang­man, Take her and pull her out by the hair of her head to torments, let her feel the power of our gods, and know what we can do: But yet, O sturdy girl, I would fain have thee, before thou diest,Tentation. to revoke thy wickednesse: Remember the honourable house of which thou art come, and thy friends tears; Wilt thou kill thy self in the flower of thy youth, so near honourable marriages? Doth not the glistering pomp of the bride-bed move thee &c. Behold here the engines pre­pared for thy death; either thou shalt be beheaded with the sword, or torn with wilde beasts, or consumed with fire to ashes, &c. yet this thou maiest escape if thou wilt; What greate matter is it for thee, with thy fingers to put a little incense into the censers? yet thereby thou shalt be delivered.

To this Eulalia answered not, being in a great passion,Eulalia. but spit in the Tyrants face, and spurned abroad the heap of inc [...]nse. Where­upon without further delay, the hangmen with both their strengths pulled out her joints, scratched her with the talons of wilde beasts to the hard bones, she singing and praising God in the mean time; saying,Horrible cru­elty. Beh [...]ld O Lord, I will not forget thee: What a pleasure is it for them, O Christ, that remember thy triumphant victories, to ataine to these high dignities! &c. Yea, when as out of a warm fountain, her fair and white skin was discoloured with the purple bloud that flowed from her torn members, she wept not, but chearfully sang praises unto God; then they gored her mangled body with the iron grate, terribly har­rowed her flesh, and burned her brest with flaming torches, then setting fire to her long hair, which covered her naked body, when it came to her face, she opened her mouth, and sucked in the flame, and so peaceably slept in the Lord.

Also Agnes a young virgin being accused for a Christian, was brought before the Judge, who first laboured by flatteries,Agnes. Tentation. then by threatning her with cruell torments, to draw her to the deniall of her faith; but she being strengthened by Christ,Courage. told him that she feared not his torments, which she was willing to undergo, yea and death it self for Christs sake; then said the Judge, if it be so easie with thee to undergo torments, yet I know that thou prizest thy virginity there­fore it is fully determined, that except thou sacrificest to the gods, thou shalt be put into the common Stews. Then did many youths flock together, craving that Agnes might be exposed as a prey to there filthy lusts, to whom she said, Christ is not forgetfull of those that are his, neither will he leave me destitute of his help, Faith. nor suffer my unspotted chastity to be defiled by you, &c. you shall willingly bathe your swords in my [Page 78] blood, but you shall not defile my body with filthy lust for any thing that you can do. Then the Judge commanded that she should be [...]et naked at the corner of a street; whereupon the multitude sorrowed, and were ashamed to see so shamelesse a sight, turning away their face, and so departing,A remarkable judgement. but one amongst the rest looking upon her in a shamelesse manner, behold a flame of fire, like a flash of lightining struck out both his eies, and he falling down wallowed in the kennell dirt, whereupon Agnes sang praises unto God. Then the cruel Tyrant en­raged hereby, commanded the executioner to draw out his sword, and dispatch her: She seeing a sturdy souldier coming towards her with a naked sword, rejoyced saying, This, O this is he that I love, I will make hast to meet him; Faith. and no longer protract my longing desires; I well willing­ly receive the length of his sword into my breast: O eternall father, vouch­safe to open the gates of heaven to my soul that seeketh thee; and so kneeling down, and praying unto Christ, the executioner with his bloudy hand, finished her hope.

Julitta An excellent story. Basil in one of his Orations, relates a story of one Jullitta, from whom one of the Emperours officers tooke all her goods, lands and servants, contrary to all equity; whereupon she complained to the Judges, and a day of hearing was appointed, where the spoiled wo­man lamentably declared her cause: But the wicked villain that had robbed her, said that her Action was of no force, for she was an out­law, for not observing the Emperours gods, and that she was a Chri­stian: His allegation was allowed, incense was prepared for her to offer to the gods, which if she refused, she should neither have pro­tection nor benefit of the Emperours Laws, nor continue her life. She hearing this,Strength of Faith. in the mighty strength of God, said, Farewell riches, welcome pouerty, farewell life, welcome death▪ All that I have were it a thousand times more, would I lose, rather then speak one wicked word against God my Creator. I yield thee most hearty thanks, O my God, for this gift of grace, that I can contemn and despise this frail and transitory world, e­steeming the profession of Christ above all treasures: And thenceforth when any question was proposed to her, her answer was, I am the servant of Jesus Christ. Tentation. Constancy. Her kindred and friends earnestly sollicited her to change her minde, but she constantly refused, with detestation of their Idolatry. Then did the cruel Judge condemn her to be burnt, which sentence she embraced joyfully, as a thing most sweet and de­lectable; and so she addressed her self to the flames, in countenance, gesture and words, declaring the joy of her heart, coupled with singu­lar constancy, and so embracing the fire, she sweetly slept in the Lotd.

Barbara. Barbara a noble woman in Thuscia, after miserable imprisonment, sharp cords, and burning flames put to her sides, was as last beheaded, together with many others.

Here place the fourth Figure.

CHAP. XVII. The Persecution of the Christians in Persia, under Sapores, about the same time.

THE Idolatrous Magicians in Persia, Magit [...]a [...]s st [...]r up persecution. taking counsell together a­gainst the Christians, accused them to Sapores for keeping corres­pondence with, and favoring the Roman Emperour, which was Constan­tine the Great.

The King being much moved herewith, took occasion to oppress them with taxes and tributes, to their utter undoing, and killed there Ministers with the sword.Simeon. Then he called before him Simeon their Bishop, who remaining constant and valiant, he commanded him to be led forth to torment, yet did he neither shrink for fear,The Persion King requ [...]ed Divine wor­sh [...]p. nor make any humble suit for pardon, which the King being offended at, requi­red him either to worship him after the countrey manner, or else he would destroy him and all other Christians in his land: But Simeon, neither allured with promises, nor terrified with threatnings, could be induced to the Idolatrous worship, for which cause he was sent away to prison, and as he was going, there was sitting at the Court-gate an Eunuch, an old Tutor of the Kings, named Usthazares, once a Chri­stian, but now fallen from his profession, who seeing Simeon led by,Usthazares. rose up and did him reverence; Simeon on the contrary, rebuked him, crying out against him for revolting from his profession: Whereupon,Zeal. the Eunuch burst forth into tears, layd aside his costly apparell, and put on black mourning weeds, and sitting at the Court-gate weeping, he said to himself, Wo is me, with what face hereafter shall I look upon God, seeing Simeon disdaineth with one gentle word to salute me? Recovery after fall. This being carried to the Kings ears, he was exceeding angry, and sending for him, he first with gentle words and large promises, spake him fair, and asked him why he mourned? Whether there was any thing in his house that was denied him? &c. Whereunto Usthazares answered,Tentation. that there was nothing in that earthly house that was detained from him: Yea▪ said he, O King, would God any other grief or calamity in the world had hap­pened to me, rather then this for which I justly sorrow:Repentance. For this is my grief, that I am alive this day, who should have died long since, and that I see this sun, which dissemblingly, to pleasure you, I have seemed to worship, for which I have deserved a double death: First for dissem­bling with you; secondly for that thereby I have denied Christ: withall vowing that he would never hereafter forsake the Creator to worship the creature, &c.

Sapores was much astonished hereat, and doubted whether to use him gently or with rigour, but at last in his mood; he commanded him to be beheaded: But as he was going to execution, he requested an Eunuch that attended on the King, to desire him for all the old and [Page 80] faithfull service that he had done to his father and him, that he would cause it to be proclaimed openly at his death, that he was beheaded, not for any treachery against the King or Realm, but for that he was a Chri­stian, and would not deny his God; this the King yielded to, and so it was performed; and this he desired, because by his former Apostacy he dad discouraged many Christians, and therefore he sought by his pro­fession and example to encourage them to the like sufferings.His Martyr­dom.

Simeon in prison hearing of his death, much rejoyced and praised God for it,Simeon be­headed. and the very next day, he, with above an hundred more Christians were beheaded likewise. There was present at their Mar­tyrdom one Pusices an officer to the King, who beholding an aged Minister to tremble when he saw the others beheaded before him,Pusices. said unto him, O father! shut thine eys for a little moment, and be strong, and shortly thou shallt see God in glory. Hereupon Pusices was apprehended, and carried before the King,His Martyr­dom. in whose presence he made a bold confession of his faith, for which cause they made a hole in his neck, and pulled out his tongue backward, and so he was put to death, together with one of his daughters that was a virgin.

The year after, when the Christians were met together to celebrate the memoriall of Christs passion, Sapores sent forth a cruel Edict, that all they should be put to death that professed the Name of Christ; and this he did at the instigation of the wi [...]ked Magicians, whereupon an in­numerable company of Christians,Magicians au­thors of perse­cution. both in Cities and Towns were slain by the sword, some being sought for, others offering themselves will­ingly least they should seem to deny Christ: In this Persecution many of the Kings own Court and houshold-servants suffered Martyrdom; a­mongst whom was Azades, an Eunuch, whom the King entirely loved, insomuch as hearing that he was slain, he was so offended and grieved, that he commanded that thenceforth no more Christians should be slain, but only the Doctors and Teachers of the Church.

About this time the Queen fell very sick, upon which occasion the wicked Jews and Magicians accused two of Simeons sisters, which were godly virgins,Simeon sisters. that by charms and enchantments they had procured her sickness to revenge the death of Simeon:Slanders. This accusation being beleived, they were both condemned, and with a Saw cut in sunder by the mid­dle, whose quarters were hung upon stakes, the Queen going betwixt them, thinking thereby to be freed of her sickness.

Then ensued a great Persecution against the Bishops and Ministers, who were daily dragged forth to the slaughter;B [...]shops and Min [...]ste [...]s per­secuted. but first they cruelly scourged them, and put them to other great torments, because they would not worship the Sun.

Miserable and almost innumerable were the slaughters under this Sapores, of Bishops, Ministers, Deacons, and other religious men and holy virgins, so that the Persians themselves reckon up above sixteen thousand men and women that suffered Martyrdom.

The report of the miserable condition of the Christians coming to the ears of Constantine the Great, put the good Emperour into great [Page 81] heaviness, who studying how to relieve them, it so fell out, that about that time there came Ambassadors to him to Rome, from Sapo­res, whom he entertained courteously, and granted all their requests, and then by them wrote his Letters to Sapores in the behalf of the Christians, whereby he did something mitigate the heat of the Per­sian Persecution: Yet afterwards it was renewed again: at which time suffered Andas the Bishop, and Hormisda a noble mans son of great re­putation amongst the Persians, Andas. Hormisda. whom when the King understood to be a Christian, and resolute in his profession, he condemned him to keep his Elephants naked: afterwards the King looking out, and seeing him all swart, and tanned with the sun, he commanded that a shirt should be put upon him, and that he should be brought before him; Then did the King ask him if he would yet deny Christ? Hormisda hearing this, tare off his shirt, and cast it from him, saying▪ if you think that I will deny my faith for a shirt, have here your gift again.Constancy. &c. whereupon he was banished the Countrey.

Also Suenes, a noble man that had under him one hundred servants, because he would not deny his Christian Profession, was so hated by the King, that he made the worst of his servants Lord over him, and over all that he had, and coupled his wife to him, and made Suenes himself to serve him.Suenes.

Also Benjamin a Deacon was thrust into prison, where he was kept two years, but at the length, at the request of the Roman Ambassadors,Benjamin. he was released, yet afterwards, when contrary to the Kings Com­mandment, he preached and taught every where the Gospel of Christ, he was again apprehended, and miserably tormented, having twenty sharp reeds thrust under the nails of his fingers and toes, but he laugh­ing at it, had a sharper reed thrust into his yard, with horrible pain, and lastly, and a long ragged thorny stalk thrust through his fundament in­to his bowels, whereof he died.

CHAP. XVIII. The Persecution of the Church under Julian the Apostata, Anno Christi, 365·

IUlian was Nephew to Constantius the son of Constantine, and was by him made Caesar, and sent against the Germans, where after some smaller victories having overcome his enemies in a great and bloody battel, he was by his Army made Augustus, and after Constantius his death, succeeded in the whole Empire, both of the East and West. He was brought up in the Christian Religion, and was endowed with excellent parts;His Apostacy. but when be came to the Empire, he Apostatized from his former profession, and turned Heathen, and became a deadly enemy to the Church of Christ, and a great persecutor of it.

The first thing that he did, was to open the Idol Temples; shut up by his Predecessors, and to suffer the Gentiles to commit their super­stitious Idolatries, and publickly to adore their Idols: Then his next design was to supplant the true Christian Religion, being induced thereto by the devil and his own wickedness: And the better to effect the same, he practised a means never before used by any, which was to shew himself pitifull, and not cruel; perceiving that by means of the torments inflicted on the Martyrs,Devilish sub­tilty. the holy Christian Faith was greatly increased; and therefore he took a contrary course, and sought by gifts, favours, flatteries, and by bestowing offices and dignities, to draw them to renounce the Christian Faith, and to sacrifice to false gods, and by this means there were not a few, who being covetous and ambitious, desiring to be rich and honoured, fell from their Christian profession.

Then did he make Laws and general Decrees, that no Christian should be Master of any Arts or Sciences,Christians might not stu­dy. neither should study in any Schools, that so through the desire of Learning they might turn Ido­laters, or else they should remain ignorant and illiterate, and so be in­sufficient to preach the Christian faith.

He also ordained that no Christian should have any charge, or hold any office of Justice,They may be in no Offices. neither should be a Captain in the Wars, nor enjoy any other dignity. Thus he used all the inventions that possibly he could devise, to make War against Jesus Christ, without shedding any Christian blood, that so he might take the Crown from the holy Martyrs,The most dan­gerous persecu­tion. which they formerly obtained by the persecution of the sword: and indeed this was the greatest and most dangerous Persecu­tion that ever the Church endured.

Amongst other of his subtill devises to bring Christianity into con­tempt,Christ [...]ans made the ob­ject of scorn. this was one; He entertained about him many witty, but wick­ed persons, who made it their business to scoff at, and deride the Chri­stians [Page 83] with all manner of base jears; and those which excelled most in this wicked practise▪ he most loved and honoured, advancing them to offices, both in his Court and Army.

During his short reign, though himself put none to death, as is be­fore specified; yet the heathen Idolaters, in sundry places, proceeded far otherwise; especially in Palestine, where they burnt many Chri­stians alive, others they stripped naked, and tying cords to their feet, dragged them up and down the paved streets,Barbarous cru­elty. till their flesh was torn from their bones; Upon others they poured scalding water: Some they stoned, or beat out their brains with clubs: and having thus murthered them, they burnt their bodies, and then took their bones, and mingled them with the bones of Camels and Asses, that they might not be known for mens bones.

The Christians in Alexandria were most cruelly used by the Eth­nicks, or Pagans: Some were slain with the sword, some were fastned to the Cross, some brained, some stoned; and such was their rage against Christianity, that one brother spared not another, nor parents their children, nor children their parents.

Emilianus was burned in Thracia. Domitius was slain in his cave. Theodorus for singing a Psalm at the removing of the body of Babilas, Emilianus. Domitius. Theodorus. being apprehended, was examined with exquisite torments, and so cruelly excruciated from morning till almost noon, that hardly he escaped with life, and being afterwards asked by his friends how he could endure such extream torments, he said, that at first he felt some pain, but afterwards there stood by him a young man,A miracle of Mercy. who as he was sweating with the pain, wiped away his sweat, and oft-times so re­freshed him with cold water, wherewith he was so delighted, that when he was let down from the Engine, it grieved him more then before.

Artemius also, a Captain of the Egyptian souldiers,Artemius. Two brethren Martyrs. was beheaded for his Religion, though other causes were pretended. Two Christian brethren were dragged through the streets, and murthered by the Ido­latrous people of Gaza.

But the cruelty of the wicked Arethusians exceeded against the Christian Ministers and Virgins,Barbarous cru­elty. whom they set forth naked before the multitude to be scorned by them. Then did they cover them with hogs-meat, and ripping up their bellies, put barly into them, and so caused their bowels and flesh to be devoured by their hungry swine.

Their cruelty most raged against Marcus Arethusius, Marcus Ar [...] ­thusius. the Christian Bishop of that City, who formerly, by the command of Constantine, had pulled down their Idol-Temple, and set up a Church for the Chri­stians in the room thereof; The Arethusians knowing how Julian hated him, accused him as a Traitor and enemy to the Emperour: Where­upon at first he prepared himself to fly, but when he perceived that some of his friends were apprehended in his stead, he returned,Courage. and of his own accord offered himself to those that thirsted for his blood: [Page 84] Whom when they had gotten, neither pitying his old age, nor reve­rencing his holy and blameless Conversation, they stript him naked, and pitifully beat him; then they cast him into a foul, filthy sink: then they caused Boies to thrust him in with sharp sticks to augment his pain:Barbarous cru­elty. Lastly, They put him into a basket▪ anointed him with hony and broth, and so hung him abroad in the heat of the sun, to be meat for wasps and flies to feed upon; and this they did to enforce him, either to build up their Idol-Temple again, or to give them money to pay for the doing of it, but he stoutly refusing both; they profered to forgive one half, if he would pay the other; which he still refusing, and con­temning all their torments, they at last demanded of him but a small sum of money, but he answered, It is as great wickedness to confer one half-penny in case of impiety, as if a man should give the whole. Whereupon, despairing to prevail, they left him, and went their ways.

CyrillusAlso Cyrillus, a Deacon in Hieropolis, who in Constantines time had broken in pieces the Images of the Gentiles, they took him, ript up his belly, drew the liver out of his body, which with barbarous inhu­manity they chawed with their teeth: But the Lord suffered not this brutishness to go unpunished,God's judge­ment on Perse­cutors. for their teeth shortly after fell out of their jaw-bones, and their tongues rotted in their mouths, and they fell stark blind.

Julian when he came to Constantinople, offered sacrifice in the Ca­thedral Church to the Goddess Fortune; about which time Maris, Bishop of Chalcedon in Bythinia, being blind, caused himself to be led to the Emperour,Maris [...]oldly reproveth Ju­lian. whom he rebuked sharply, calling him an impious person, an Apostate, and an Atheist; he on the contrary called the Bishop, Blind fool, saying further, Thy God of Galilee will not restore thee thy sight again! Blasphemy. Maris replied, I thank God which made me blind, lest that ever I should set mine eies upon so ungracious a face as thine is.

In the Market-places of the Cities, Julian set up his own Image, amongst the Images of the heathen gods, to the end that whosoever should do civil reverence to his Image,Devilish sub­tilty. might also seem to worship the gods of the Gentiles; and that they who would not bow to the Idols, might seem to refuse due reverence to the Emperour. When he di­stributed gold to his Captains and souldiers, he erected an Altar near to his Throne, with coals burning upon it, and incense on a Table by, & none might receive the gold before he had cast incense on the coals up­on the Altar, by which subtilty he circumvented many, who discerned not his purpose to intangle them with the rites of Idolatrous services.

All about Antioch he dedicated all the fountains to the goddesses of the Gentiles, and caused all the Victuals that were sold in the Market to be sprinkled with heathenish holy water:Christian wis­dom. yet did the Chri­stians without scruple drink of the water, and eat of the meat accord­ing to that rule, Whatsoever is sold in the shambles, that eat, and ask no question for conscience sake, &c.

Juventius and Maxentius. Juventius and Maxentius, two brave Captains, used much boldness [Page 85] and liberty in reproving him for his heathenish superstition, which so enraged him, that he caused them to be put to death.

In Caesarea, the Inhabitants being most Christians, had formerly overthrown the Temples of Jupiter and Apollo; and now in Julians time, they overthrew the Temple of Fortune, which so enraged him,Christian cou­rage. that he disfranchised them, exacted of them three hundred pounds weight of gold, and compelled their Clergy to serve in War-fare, threatning further to put to death all the Inhabitants thereof at his return, but it pleased God that his own death prevented it.

About this time, Julian going to enquire of the Oracle of Apollo at Delphos, there came down fire from heaven, and destroyed the Temple, and beat the Image of Apollo in pieces,Apollo's Image broken with lightning. like to the smallest powder or dust.

When he came to Antioch, there was a noble woman, called Publia, who had the Education and government of divers young virgins, these she caused, as Julian passed by her house, to sing with a loud voice, The Idols of the heathen are silver and gold, the works of mens hands, &c. This so angred the Emperour, that he sent them a command to sing no more as he went that way; but Publia was so far from fearing him, that the next time he came, she made them sing the same verse, and to add to it, Let God arise, and his enemies shall be scattered, &c. This so incensed Julian, that he sent for her to him, scoffed at her, and caused her to be clapt on the cheeks in a disgracefull manner; but she looked upon it as a great honour thus to suffer reproach for Christs sake; and coming home, she caused her maids still to sing Psalms of the Emperours fury and madness.

Afterwards the Emperour intending to war against the Persians, Christians fined. set a great fine upon every ones head that would not sacrifice to the Idols, whereby he much enriched himself by the spoil of the Christians.

Then were false Accusations forged against Athanasius, so that he was forced to flie; yet he thus comforted himself and friends,Athanasius dri­ven away. Nubecula est, cito pertransibit, This persecution is but a little cloud, and will soon pass away.

In his flight, he took a ship upon the river Nilus to fly to Thebais, but Julian sent an Earl after him, to bring him back again, who pursuing him with sails and ores, had almost overtaken his ship, whereupon the Marriners would have run her ashore, and fled into a wilderness that was hard by, to whom Athanasius said, Quid turbamini filii? Courage. quin in occursum eamus persecutori nostro, ut intelligat, quia longe major est qui nos defendit, quam qui persequitur: My sons, why are you thus af­frighted? Let us rather turn and meet our pursuer, that he may know, that he is greater which defends us, then he that follows to apprehend us. Hereupon the Marriners turned back again, and the Earl suppo­sing nothing less then that Athanasius was in the ship that came to­wards him, he only called to them,A special pro­vidence. and enquired whether they had not heard of Athanasius? they answered, that they had seen Athanasius a [Page 86] little before; whereupon he hastned forward to overtake him, and Athanasius in his ship returned back privately into Alexandria, where he lay hid till that persecution was over.

Julians Officers in exacting the fines of the Christians, demanded more then they were assessed at, and sometimes tormented their bo­dies also, of which wrongs when they complained to the Emperour▪ he scoffingly answered them,Blasphemy. Its your part, when you are injured, to take it patiently, for so your God commandeth you.

At Meris in Phrygia, the Governor Commanded the Idol-Temple to be set open and cleansed, and began himself to worship the Idols: Whereupon some Christians, inflamed with zeal, in the night time, brake into the Temple, threw down the Idols, and stamped them to powder.Zeal. The Governour being wonderfully incensed herewith, purposed to execute some Christian Citizens which were innocent and guiltless; whereupon the Authors of their own accord, presented themselves before him, chusing rather to die for the truth, then that others should suffer for their sakes;Courage. Thereupon the Governor com­manded them to sacrifice to the Idols, or else he would severely pu­nish them; but they, setting at nought his threats, prepared themselves to suffer what he could inflict; Then did he assay them with all kinds of torments, and at last laid them on the grid-iron, and broiled them to death, to whom they said, If thou long, O Tyrant, for broiled meat, turn up the other side, lest in eating, the blood run about thy teeth.

When Julian went against the Persians, of very malice and hatred against the Christians, whom scornfully he called Galilaeans, he made a vow, that if he obtained the victory, he would sacrifice to his gods the blood of those Christians which would not sacrifice to the Idols: But what the issue of that exepdition was, See in my second part, in the Life of Jovianus.

CHAP. XIX. The Persecution of the Church under the Arrian Hereticks, which began, An. Christi, 339.

CHAP. XX. The Persecution of the Church in Africk, by the Arrian Vandals, which began Anno Christi, 427.

THE cruel Vandals, passing out of Spain into Africk, under Genserick their Captain, finding the Province peaceable and quiet, set upon the flourishingest part of the land, wasting and destroying all before them with fire and sword, not sparing so much as the shrubs and bushes which bare fruit, lest they should minister relief to those poor Christians which hid themselves in dens, in mountains, and steep cliffs:Profane Here­ticks. But especially they raged against the Churches and Temples [Page 91] of the Saints, burning all them to the ground, and where they found any of them shut they brake them open with their Maces.Cruelty of He­reticks. The Bishops and Ministers they destroyed especially, with many kinds of torments, seeking by tortures to force them to deliver up whatsoever gold and silver they had of their own, or belonging to the Church; and where they gat any, they still tormented them afresh, to inforce them to confess more.

The mouths of some they wrested open with iron, thrusting into them stinking mire and dirt:Prodigious Some they tormented by wresting their fore-heads and legs with bow-strings, till they crackt again; Into the mouths of others they poured sea-water, vinegar, with the dreg [...] of oyl and grease; and neither weakness of sex, nor respect of nobility, nor reverence of their Ministry, mitigated their cruel minds; yea, their fury most abounded where there appeared any dignity or worthiness.

Many of the Ministers and Nobles they loaded with mighty bur­thens, as if they had been Camels or Horses,Ministers loaden with burthens. and made them carry them after them; and if they went slowly, they hasted them with iron pricks and goads, so that some of them under their burthens, gave up the ghost. Reverend gray hairs found no priviledge of Mercy; guiltless Infants felt their barbarous rage, whom they dashed against the ground,Cruelty to In­fants. violently pulling little ones from their mothers breasts to brain them; of others, by wide stretching of their tender legs, they tore them in pieces, from the fundament; the stately buildings they burnt down, and levelled with the earth: The chief Churches in Carthage they imployed to their own heretical worship. Where any strong Castles were held against them, they brought multitudes of Christians, slew them, and left their bodies lying about the Castles, that by the stench thereof they might force them to surrender.

Who can express the number of Ministers that were by them tor­tured!Pampinian. Pampinian the Bishop of Mansuetus was tortured with burning plates of iron all over his body. The Bishop of Urice was burnt to death.

Then did they also besiege the City of Hippo, where St. Augustine was,Hippo besieged. who before that time had compiled two hundred thirty two Books, Epistles innumerable besides his Expositions on the Psalms and Gospels, and his Homilies to the people. See more of this in my first part of lives in the life of St. Austine.

When they had taken the Regal City of Carthage, they enslaved the Citizens and Senators, publishing a decree that they should pre­sently bring forth whatsoever gold, silver, precious stones, or rich ap­parel they possessed, and thereby dispoiled them of all in one day; Then did they take the Bishop and all the Ministers of that City, and thrust them naked into weather broken-ships, and so banished them, whom yet the Lord of his great Mercy directed, and brought in safe­ty to the City of Naples. A special pro­vidence. The Senators and Nobles they first banished from the City▪ and then drave them beyond-sea. The dead bodies of the Christians they would not suffer to be buried but in the night, and without any solemnity.

[Page 92] The Bishops and Ministers through all the Province, being dispoil­ed of all their substance, and turned out of their Churches, assembled together, and presented a petition to Genserick, that they might, at least in private,Pride. be suffered to instruct their people to whom he proudly an­swered, I have decreed that none of your profession shall remain in the coun­trey, how then dare you prefer such a request? and withal, he would at that instant have drowned them all in the sea, but that the importuni­ty of some about him, stopt him.

There was also a noble Earl, called Sebastian, a man of great wis­dom and courage, whom Genserick much feared, and therefore sought occasion to put him to death: which that he might the better effect, he moved him to be re-baptized by one of his Priests, and to turn Arrian: the Earl therefore requested him to call for a fine manchet, which being done, he said, This loaf, that it might be fine and white, hath been boulted from the bran, A noble Earl martyred. moistened with liquor, and baked: but if you now cause it to be broken in pieces, steeped in water, kneaded and baked again, if it come out better, I will do as you would have me. Genserick understand­ing his meaning, could not tell what to answer for the present, yet af­terwards he caused him to be put to death.

If any Minister in his Sermon occasionally did but mention Pharaoh, Nebuchadrezzer, An evil con­science. Herod, &c, presently it was laid to his charge that he meant it by the King, and thereupon he was banished.

Yet notwithstanding all this cruelty, the people of God stood fast in their holy profession,Constancy. and rather increased then otherwise.

Afterwards at the request of Valentinian the Emperour, Genserick suffered the Orthodox in Carthage to choose them a Bishop, which they did; and not long after Genserick with his Vandals took the fa­mous City of Rome, Rome sacked. carrying away with him, not only all the treasure that of a long time had been stored up there, but many of the people also; who, when they were brought into Africk, were shared between the Vandals and the Moors, so that husbands were separated from their wives, parents from their children; which this godly Bishop hearing of, he caused all the gold and silver vessels belonging to the Church, to be sold for their Redemption,Charity. that so married persons, and parents, and children might enjoy the comfort of their relations: Then also did he provide food and lodging for them, and night and day went amongst them himself, to see how they did, to minister to their wants, and comfort them; But this procured him such hatred amongst the Arrians, that they sought to slay him; but the Lord about this time took him to himself, whereby he escaped their malice.

Gods provi­dence.One of the Gensericks Colonels, having some Christian slaves, and a beautifull and a godly Virgin amongst them, he took occasion to vex them with fetters and torments, thereby to force them to re-baptiza­tion, which they constantly refusing, he caused them to be stripped, and beaten with ragged cudgels till their flesh was torn in pieces, &c. At last they were banished to Capsur, an heathen Kingdom of the Moors, where it pleased God so to bless their labours,A special Pro­vidence. that many of them [Page 93] were converted, and sending for an Orthodox Minister,Moors conver­ted. were baptized.

This coming to Gensericks ears, he commanded these servants of God to be drawn at a Chariots tail thorow thickets of thorns,Cruelty of He­reticks. till they were torn in pieces, and these newly converted Moors, he caused their naked bodies to be haled backwards and forwards, thorow bushes and brambles, and others of them to be tied to wild beasts, and so to be rent in sunder; the poor Christians saying thus each to other, O brother pray for me, God hath fulfilled our desire, O this is the way to the kingdom of heaven.

Genserick further raging against the Orthodox, sent one Proculus in­to the Zeugian Province, to dispoil all the Churches of their Orna­ments, and the Ministers of their books, that thereby they might be disabled to holy services; which command was executed with all rigour: and whereas the Bishop of Habensa refused to deliver them up, he was expelled the City,The Bishop of Habensa. and all men at great penalty were for­bidden to harbour him, so that, being above eighty years old, he lay naked for a long time, under the open skie.

About Easter, when the Christians were met together in a Church, to celebrate the remembrance of Christs Resurrection, the Arrians with a great power of armed men, set upon this innocent company, who with their naked swords slew many: The Minister that was preaching, they shot through the throat with an arrow:Christians murthered at a Sermon. and such of them as escaped death, were by the command of the King, executed by sundry kinds of torments.

In other places, when the Christians were administring the Sacra­ment, the Hereticks rushed in amongst them, taking the bread and wine, and trampling them under their profane feet.Horrible pro­faness.

Then did Genserick command, that none but Arrians should bear any office, either about himself or his children: And a Bishop called Armogastes, they took, and first nipped his fore-head and legs with bow­strings; then did they hang him up by one foot,Armogastes tormented. with his head down­ward, yet did he seem to all men as if he slept in a feather-bed, which so enraged Theoderick the Kings son, that he commanded him to be beheaded, but some about him disswaded him from it,A special pro­vidence. because said they, he will be accounted a Martyr. Then was he banished to dig in Mynes; yet afterwards he was sent for again, and made a Cow-heard near to Carthage, that he might be a continual object of scorn.

There was also one Saturus, a noble man, eminent for holiness, whom the Tyrant much laboured to draw to the Arrian profession, but he refusing, the King told him, that if he presently consented not,Saturu's noble courage. he should forfeit his house and goods, that his Children and slaves should be sould, and his wife should be given to the Camel-driver: Yet no menaces could shake his faith. His wife hearing of her doom, went to her husband as he was praying, with her garments rent, her hair disheveled, her Children at her heels, and a sucking infant in her [Page 94] hands, whom she cast at her husbands feet, and took him about the knees,Tentation. saying, Have compassion (O my sweetest) of me thy poor wife; and of these thy Children; look upon them, let them not be made slaves; let not me be yoaked to a base Marriage, &c. that which thou art required to do, thou dost it not willingly, but by constraint, and therefore it will not be laid to thy charge: He gave her an answer in the words of Job, Thou speakest like a foolish woman:Resisted. thou actest the devils part; if thou lovest thy husband, thou wouldst never seek to draw him to sin, which will procure the second death. I am resolved therefore as my Lord com­mands me, to forsake wife, children, lands, house, &c. that I may be his Disciple; and accordingly he was dispoiled of all, and turned out a begging, yet all were forbidden to harbour him.

Gensericks death. Genserick having reigned thirty seven years and three moneths, died.

Genserick being dead, his son Hunrick succeeded him, who at first was more moderate to the Christians, insomuch as they began to hold their meetings as before time. The Manichaean Hereticks he sought out, and though most of them were of his own Religion, yet he burnt some,Manichaeans punished. and banished others.

At the request of the Emperour Zeno and Placidia his wife, he suf­fered the Church of Carthage to chuse their own Bishop, having been destitute of one for twenty four years. Then they chose Eugenius, an humble,Eugenius cho­sen Bishop. holy and charitable man, whose fame increasing, the Arrian Bishops much envied him, and put into the Kings head to forbid him to preach, and not to suffer any to enter into the Church, that were at­tired after the manner of the Vandals;Envy. To which command Eugenius thus answered, The house of God is free for all: those which enter, no man may drive forth. The King being incensed with this answer, placed tortures at the Church door, who when they espied any man or wo­man in a Vandals habit, about to go into the Church, clapping flesh-hooks on their heads, and twisting them in their hair, with a strong twitch they pulled off hair,Cruelty of He­reticks. scalp and all, whereby some lost their eies, and some their lives.

The women, besides these torments, they carried thorow the streets, to be made a publick laughing-stock, yet could they not force them to altar their Religion.Constancy.

Then did Hunrick ordain, that none of his Countries which dis­sented from his Religion, should receive their ordinary pensions and salaries. Then did he send many of them who had been delicately brought up, to Utica, in the parching heat of the sun, to dig the land for corn; yet they went cheerfully, and comforted themselves in the Lord.

Then did he command that no man should be a Knight, or bear any publick office except he turned Arrian: whereupon very many with invincible courage,Constancy. forsook their honours and offices, rather then their faith.

Barbarous cru­elty.Many Virgins he caused to be proved by the Midwives in a most shamefull manner; hanging them up from the ground with mighty [Page 95] weights at their feet, and putting to their sides; breasts, back and bel­lies, red hot plates of iron, to compell them to confess that their Bishops and Ministers lay with them, that so he might from thence have an occasion to persecute them. Many of these died under the pain, and others remained lame and crooked all their lives after, yet would they not confess any such thing.

Then did he banish into the wilderness, of Bishops, Ministers, Dea­cons, and other Members of Christ, four thousand nine hundred seventy six; some of them being lame with the gout, others blind with age:Multitudes ba­nished. Amongst whom also was Foelix Bishop of Abiris, possessed with a dead palsie, and therefore unable, either to go or ride;Foelix. which the cruel King being informed of, and requested that he might be suffered to stay; he answered, if he be not able to ride, let wild bulls be coupled to drag him to the place appointed: So that they were fain to carry him on a Mules back across, as if he had been a sack.

Then were all these holy Confessors, brought to the City of Sicca, where the Moors were to receive them, and transport them thence to the wilderness. Thither came two Arrian Earls,Tentation. and with great subtil­ty sought to withdraw them from their stedfastness, saying, What mean you to be so obstinate, as not to obey the Kings Laws, whereas by complying with him, you may be preferred to honour? Then did they all cry out, We be Christians, we be Catholicks, we believe, and confess the Trinity in Unity. Hereupon were they shut up in a grievous prison.

Many mothers also voluntarily followed their little children, much rejoycing that they had born Martyrs: Others sought to draw them to rebaptization by the Hereticks but, through Gods grace, they could not prevail.Constancy.

As they passed on the way travelling more by night then by day, because of the excessive heat, a woman hasted after them,An excellent story. leading in her hand a little child, encouraging him, saying, Run Sirra, seest thou all the Saints how merrily they go forwards, and hasten to their Crown? One of the company rebuked her, and asked her whether she went? To whom she answered, Pray for me, I go with this little boy, my nephew, to the place of banishment▪ least the enemies finding him alone, should seduce him from the way of truth into the way of Error.

The enemies being more enraged because of their constancy, when they came to their lodgings, penned them up in narrow places. Then was denied to them all the comfort of access of their friends, for per­mitting whereof formerly, their Keepers had been beaten with staves. These blessed Saints were tumbled one upon another, as grains of corn,Cruelty of He­reticks. neither could they have means of stepping aside to ease nature, so that the stink of their excrements exceeded their other pain.

Then were they brought forth, their garments, heads and faces be­smeared with dirt in a pitifull manner, and by the clamorous Moors they were hastened forward in their journey; yet they went singing with great joy unto the Lord, Loe, This honour have all his Saints. Then came to them the blessed Bishop Cyprian, Cyprians sym­pathy. who to their singular [Page 96] consolation, comforted every one of them with fatherly affection, and with streams of tears was ready to lay down his life for the brethren, and would fain have accompanied them, if he might have been suf­fered:Charity. He bestowed all that he had amongst them, for which he af­terwards suffered imprisonment and much hard-ship, and at last had his hearts desire in being banished.

There came great multitudes from sundry Countries and Cities, to behold these servants of God, and many casting their Children at their feet; cryed thus, To whom will you leave us wretches whilest you go forward to your Crown? Who shall baptize our infants? instruct and administer the Sa­craments to us? our hearts serve us well to go with you if we might. But now none were suffered any more to go with them for their comfort, but they were pressed forwards, and made to run.

When any of the aged, or tender Children fainted, they were first punched forwards with staves:Barbarous cru­elty. Then were the Moors commanded to tie ropes to the feet of such as were unable to go, and to hail them thorow the rough places, so that first their garments were rent, then their flesh, and their heads were dashed against the sharp edges of rocks, whereby very many of them died.

The rest that were stronger came at last to the wilderness, where, like beasts, they had barly given them for their food; there were also abundance of venemous serpents and scorpions in that place, whose sting was deadly, yet, thorow Gods great Providence, none of these servants of Christ gat any hurt thereby.A special pro­vidence.

Hunrick in the seventh year of his reign, directed his Mandate to Eugenius Bishop of Carthage, and told all other Bishops in Africk, that they should by such a day meet at Carthage to defend by disputation their faith against the Arrian Bishops;Subtilty of He­reticks. but withal, by the tenour of the decree, they perceived that he would not suffer any of them to live within his dominions, which caused great heaviness amongst them. Eugenius returned answer, that since it was the common cause of all the Christian Churches, it was but equal that Bishops out of other Countries should be requested to be there present also; and this he did, not because they suspected their own abilities to defend the truth, but because he knew that strangers might use more liberty of speech then they could, and that other Bishops might be witnesses of their sufferings, but this request did but more enrage this unreasonable Tyrant.

The appointed day approaching, many Bishops resorted to Carthage, worn out with afflictions and sorrows, yet for many days after their coming, there was no mention of disputing, till in the mean time the King had singled out the learnedest and skilfullest of them, that by sundry Calumniations he might make them away: Amongst whom was Laetus, a stout and learned man, whom he first impri­soned, and then burnt him in the fire, that so he might strike a fear into the rest.

At last the Disputation began, and the Orthodox, to avoid tumult, [Page 97] chose out some to answer for all the rest. The Arrians placed them­selves upon lofty Thrones,Pride of Here­ticks. whilest the Orthodox stood below upon their feet; Whereupon they said, Conference is to be taken in hand, not where proud superiority of power bears sway, but where, by common consent, the Disputants upon equal tearms debate the controversies, that truth may come to light, &c. Then were all the Catholicks commanded to have an hundred stroaks a piece with a cudgel, given them for this speech:Unjust cruelty. Whereupon Eugenius said, The Lord from heaven behold the violence which we suffer, and consider the tribulation which we sustain from our perse­cutors. Then did the Orthodox Bishops desire the Arrians to pro­pound what they intended; But the Arrian Bishops seeing them ready to dispute with them, sought out tergiversations, and declined the dispute. Hereupon the Orthodox drew forth a declaration of their faith, excellently well penned, and exhibited it with this Protestati­on, If you be desirous to know our belief, A confession of [...]aith. the faith which we hold is herein com­prised. The Arrians stormed exceedingly at this, giving them out­ragious language, and presently by false Calumnies they accused them to the King, and so incensed him, that by an Edict in one day he caused all the Christians Churches through Africk to be shut up,A wicked E­dict. giving to the Arrians all the goods and Churches of the Orthodox.

Then did he command that all those godly Bishops that were met together at Carthage, Cru [...]lty of He­reticks. should be spoiled of all that they had in their lodgings, and so driven out of the City-gates; having neither ser­vant, nor beast, nor garment to s [...]ift them in, left unto them; and all men were forbidden either to harbour them, or give them any suste­nance, the King threatning to burn him and all his family that should relieve them.

The Bishops being thus turned out, lay in the open fields round about the Wals: and when the Tyrant went forth to the fish-ponds, they met him, saying, Why are we so afflicted? what evil have we done? If we be called to dispute, Why are we spoiled of all we have? Why are we slandred? Why are we forced to remain here amongst the dung-hills, affli­cted with hunger and nakedness, far from our Churches and houses? Herewith the Tyrant was so enraged, that he commanded his horse­men to ride over them, whereby many of them were sore bruised and wounded, especially the aged and weak men: Then did he command them to meet him at the Temple of Memory: and when they came thi­ther, they had this writing delivered to them; Our Lord King Hun­rick, lamenting your obstinacy in refusing to obey his will, and to em­brace his Religion, yet intends to deal graciously with you, and if you will take this oath, he will send you back to your Churches and houses: Then they all said with one consent, We are all Christians, and Bishops, and hold the Apostolical and only true faith; and thereupon they made a brief confession of their faith;Devillish sub­tilty. But the Kings Commissioners urged them without any further delay to take the oath contained in that paper; Whereupon they answered, Do you think us bruit beasts, that we should so easily swear to a writing, wherein we know not what is con­tained? [Page 98] Then was the Oath read unto them, which was this, You shall swear that after the death of the Lord our King, his son Hilderick shall succeed him in the Kingdom, and that none of you shall send letters beyond the seas. If you take this oath, he will restore you to your Churches.

They that were plain-meaning men amongst them, were willing to take it; but others that saw further into the subtilty of it, refused it. Then were those which would take it, commanded to separate them­selves from the other, which being done, a Notary presently took their names, and of what Cities they were: he did the like also by the Refusers; and so both parties were committed to ward, and short­ly after the King sent them word; first to those that would have taken the oath: Because that you, contrary to the rule of the Gospel, which saith,A wicked sen­tence. Thou shalt not swear at all, would have sworn: The Kings Will is, that you shall never see your Churches more, but shall be banished into the wilderness, and never perform any Ministerial office again; and there you shall till the ground: But to the Refusers of the oath, he said, because you desire not the reign of our Lords son, you shall therefore be immediately sent away to the Isle of Corse, there to hew timber for the ships.

He also sent abroad through all Africk, his cruel tormentors: So that no place, no house remained free from lamentation, screeching and out-cryes. They spared neither age nor sex, but only such as yielded to their will. Some they cudgelled with staves; some they hung up, others they burned. Women, and especially gentlewomen, they openly tortured stark naked without all shame: Amongst whom was Dionysia, whom when they saw bolder, and more beautifull then the rest,Dionysia. they first commanded her to be stript naked, and made ready for the cudgels, who spake boldly to them, saying, I am assured of the love of my God, Impudence of Hereticks. v [...]x me how you will, only my woman-hood disclose you not; But they, with greater rage, set her naked upon an high place for a publick spectacle: Then did they whip her till the streams of blood flowed all over her body: Whereupon she boldly said, Ye Ministers of Satan, that which you do for my reproach, is to me an honour. And beholding her only son,Courage. that was young and tender, and seemed fear­full of torments, checking him with a motherly Authority, she so en­couraged him, that he became much more constant then before. To whom in the midst of his terrible torments, she said, Remember, O my child, She encourag­eth her son. that we were baptized in the name of the holy Trinity: Let us not lose the garment of our salvation, least it be said, Cast them into outer darkness, where is weeping▪ and wailing and gnashing of teeth: For that pain is to be dreaded, that never endeth; and that life to be desired, that alwayes lasteth: The youth was so encouraged hereby, that he persevered patient in all his sufferings, till, in the midst of his torments, he gave up the Ghost. Many by her exhortations and example were gained to God, and animated in their sufferings.The benefit of good examples.

Not long after, Cyrillas the Arrian Bishop at Carthage, stirred up the Tyrant against the Christians,Slanders. telling him, that he could never [Page 99] expect to enjoy his Kingdom in peace, so long as he suffered any of them to live, Hereupon he sent for seven eminent Christians from Capsa to Carthage, Tentation. whom he first assaulted with flattery and large pro­mises of honour, riches, &c. if so be they would imbrace his faith: But these servants of Christ rejected all those profers▪ crying out, One Lord, one faith, one Baptism; saying also,Courage and constancy. Do with our bodies what you please, torment them at your will, its better for us to suffer these momentary pains, then to endure everlasting torments.

Hereupon they were sent to prison, loaded with great iron chains, and thrust into a stinking Dungeon: But God stirred up the hearts of many godly persons (by great bribes to the Jayler) to procure daily access to them, and by their exhortations,Gods Mercy. they were so corroborated in the faith, that they much desired to suffer the like things for Christ with these men, and would willingly have laid down their necks to the Persecutors swords.

The Tyrant hearing of it, was exceedingly enraged, caused them to be kept closer, loaden with more chains, and to be put to great tor­ments. Then did he cause a ship to be filled with combustible matter, commanding that these holy Martyrs should be put into it,Many burned in a ship. and fast bound in the same, and fire to be set to the ship in the sea, that they might be burned to death.

When they were brought out of the prison, the multitude of Gods people accompanied them to the ship, who as innocent Lambs were led to be sacrificed, looking upon their weighty irons, as rare Jewels and Ornaments. With chearfulness and alacrity they went towards the place of execution, as if they had gone to a banket,Admirable courage and comfort. singing with one voice unto the Lord, as they went along the street, saying, This is our desired day, more festival then any fe [...]ivity: Behold, now is the accepted time, behold, now is the day of salvation! when for the faith of our Lord God, we endure death, that we may not loose the garment of obtained faith. The people also with one voice cried; Fear not, O servants of God, neither dread the threats of your enemies: Die for Christ, who died for us, that he might redeem us with the price of his saving blood.

Amongst these was a pretty boy, to whom a subtil Seducer said, Why hastest thou, my pretty boy, unto death: let them go,Tentation. they are mad; Take my counsel, and thou shalt not only have life, but great advancement in the Kings Court: To whom the lad answered, You shall not get me from the fellowship of these holy men, Constancy of a boy. who bred me up, with whom I lived in the fear of God, and with whom I desire to die; and with whom I trust, I shall obtain the glory to come. And so being all put into the ship, they were burned to­gether.

After the death of Hunrick, Gundabund succeeded in the Kingdom, who continuing in the steps of his cruel predecessors, afflicted the Christians grievously by sundry kinds of persecution, during the space of twelve years, at the end whereof he died, and Thrasamund [Page 100] succeeded him, a man that excelled all his Predecessors in magnani­mity and courage.

His manner was by perswasions, flatteries, promises and rewards, to seek to draw the Christians to his Arrian Heresie; but they which would not be prevailed with hereby, he no way punished or molested them.

In his time there were great Wars between the Moors and Vandals, the Moors had one Cabaon for their General, who commanded all his souldiers to use abstinence in their diet,An excellent example of an Heathen. and to abstain from women, and from all Injury and wrong-doing. The women he enclosed with­in trenches by themselves, commanding that under pain of death no man should have access to them. Then did he send forth a certain company of Moors, commanding them privately to follow the Camp o [...] the Vandals, and that wheresoever the Vandals profaned any Church of the Christians, presently after their departure, they should follow and purge the same; For (saith he) if the Christians God be a good God, then will he assist them that are devoted to him, and punish the Blasphemers. These men in counterfeit base attire, followed the Van­dals Camp; and whereas the Vandals where ever they came, took up the Christians Churches for their Horses and Beasts of burthen,Profaness of Hereticks. carrying themselves very insolently against God and his House: beating and abusing the Ministers and Church-Officers, making them to attend upon them as their slaves. After their departure the Moors on the contrary, cleansed the Churches, carried out the dung▪ kneeled down to, and reverenced the Ministers, and distributed money to the poor, and thus they did continually.

Then did Cabaon prepare to give his enemies battel; and whereas the Vandals were all Horse-men, and very well mounted, their Horses were so afrighted at the sight of the Moors Camels, that they were presently put into disorder, and the Moors with darts and arrows did so pelt them, that they put them to flight, and slew many of them, whereupon Thrasamund shortly after died of grief.

Then did Ilderick the son of Hunrick succeed in the Kingdom, who was equally mild and gentle, both to the Vandals and Christians, and one that kept very fair correspondence with the Emperour Justi­nian. But Gilimer, a cunning and ambitious man, deposed him, and usurped the Kingdom to himself. Whereupon Justinian sent against him that brave and gallant General Billisarius, The destructi­on of the per­secuting Van­dals. who overcame him in several battels, took him prisoner, freed the Christians from persecu­tion, and subverted the Empire of the Vandals in Africk, after they had reigned there for the space of ninety years, wherein for the most part they had been cruel persecutors of the true Church of God.

Sin the fore­runner of perse­cution. Salvian, who was Bishop of Masilia, and lived at the same season, complaineth, that before these brutish Vandals came into Africk, the Church of God there was much degenerated from its ancient purity, and the power of Godliness was much decaid; insomuch as they [Page 101] which lived exactly according to the Rule of Gods Word, were hissed at as they went in the streets, as if they had been monsters: Where­upon, saith he, the passage of the Vandals into Africk, was not to be imputed to Gods rigour, but to the Africans wickedness, &c.

Collected out of a Book written by Victor Bishop of Utica, who lived at the same time, and was himself a Sufferer under this persecution.

Here place the fifth Figure.

CHAP. XXI. The Persecutions of the Waldenses, which began Anno Christi, 1160.

WHen the darkness of Popery had overspread the Christi­an world, so that Kings and Princes imploied their Authority to establish the Romish Idolatry, appointing to slaughter such as denied Transubstantiation, Adora­tion of the Host, bowing the knees before it, &c. this occasioned many Christians to detest this superstition as unknown to the Apostles and primitive Church.The f [...]st Re­formers▪ And first of all God raised up Berengarius, presently after the year one thousand, who boldly and faithfully preached the Truth, and against the Romish Er­rors, continuing his Ministry, till about the time that William the Con­queror came into England, whereupon the Gospellers were called Be­rengarians, till about the year 110. At which time common notice being taken of their separation from the Church of Rome, and their disagreeing from so many of their Tenents, they were branded with the odious name of Hereticks, And twenty years after, when they were grown into a very great multitude, they had one Peter Bruis for their most famous Preacher, who taught long, and publickly at Tho­louse, under the protection and favour of a noble Earl, called Hilde­phonsus, whereupon in those parts they were called Petro-Brusians. For Peter Bruis, Anno Christi, 1120. published their Tenents in a book called Anti-Christ, wherein he declared both the ground of their Doctrine, and the causes of their separation from the Romish Church.

Twenty years after this, they were grown into a mighty multitude about Anno Christi, 1140. whereupon the Popes of Rome now began to lay about them for their Extirpation: For which end he stirred up his most learned followers to write against them; and warned Princes to take heed of them, and to banish them out of their Territories.

[Page 103] Anno Christi, 1147. they had Henry of Tholouse for their most eminent Preacher, whereupon they began to be called Henericians; and because they were well red in the Scriptures, especially in the Epistles of St. Paul, whom by way of eminency they called the Apo­stle, alleadging Texts out of him, nnd would admit of no Testimo­nies for the proof of Religion, but only out of Scripture, they were cal­led Apostolicks. And shortly after God raised up Peter Valdo a Citizen of Lions in France, Peter Valdo. who shewed himself most couragious in opposing the Popish inventions, withal taxing divers other innovations which were crept into the Church of Rome, and he was the more eagerly hearkened unto,Charity. because he was in high esteem for his Learning and Piety, and his liberality to the poor; for besides the nourishing of their bodies, he did also feed their souls, by exhorting them to seek Jesus Christ, and salvation by him. The Arch-Bishop of Lions being informed that Valdo used thus to instruct the people,Popish malice. boldly taxing the vice, luxury, and pride of the Pope, and his Clergy, forbad him the same upon pain of Excommunication, and proceeded against him as an Heretick; Valdo replied,Christian cou­rage. that he could not be silent in a cause of so great importance, as the salvation of mens souls, wherein he must obey God rather then man: Then did the Arch-Bishop seek to have him apprehended, but could not effect it, Valdo having many great friends, and being generally beloved, whereby he continued (though closely) in Lions three years.

Pope Alexander the third being informed that divers persons in Lions questioned his soveraign Authority over the whole Church, cur­sed Valdo, and his Adherents,Pope Alexander raiseth persecu­tion. commanding the Arch-Bishop to pro­ceed against them by Ecclesiastical censures to their utter extirpation; whereupon they were wholly chased out of Lions. Valdo and his fol­lowers were called Waldenses, which afterwards spread themselves in­to divers Countries and Companies.

The opinions of these Waldenses for which they were so declaimed against, and cruelty persecuted by the Romanists, were these.

1. That holy oyl is not to be mingled in Baptism.

2. That all such prayers are superstitious and vain which are made over the oyl, salt, wax, incense, boughs of Olives and Palms, Ecclesi­astical garments, calices, Church-yards, and such like things.

3. That time is spent in vain in Ecclesiastical singings, and saying the Canonical hours.

4. That flesh and eggs may be eaten in Lent, and that there is no merit in abstinence at such times.

5. That when necessity requires, all sorts of persons may marry, Ministers as well as others.

6. That auricular confession is not necessary.

7. That Confirmation is not a Sacrament.

8. That Obedience is not to be performed to the Pope.

9. That Ministers should live upon Tithes and Offerings.

10. That there is no difference between a Bishop and a Minister.

[Page 104] 11. That it is not the dignity, but deserts of a Presbyter that makes him a better man.

12. That they administer the Sacrament without the accustomed form of the Roman Church.

13. They say that Images are to be taken out of Churches, and that to adore them was Idolatry.

14. They contemned the Popes indulgences, and say, that they were of no vertue.

15. They refused to take any oath whereby they should be en­forced to accuse themselves, or their friends.

16. They maintained their Ministers out of their own purses, think­ing it unreasonable that such should be diverted from their stu­dies, whilst they were forced to get their livings with their own hands.

17. They held that the Miracles done in the Church of Rome, were false Miracles.

18. That the Religion of the Frier Mendicants was invented by the Devil.

19. That the Pope of Rome was not to be obeyed.

20. That whoredom and stews were not to be permitted under pre­tense of avoiding Adultery and Rapes.

21. That there is no Purgatory wherein the souls of the deceased are to be purged before they be admitted into heaven.

22. That a Presbyter, falling into scandalous sin, ought to be sus­pended from his office till he had sufficiently testified his Repen­tance.

23. That the Saints deceased are not to be worshiped, and prayed unto.

24. That it matters not for the place of their burial, whether it were holy or no.

25. They admitted no extream unction amongst the Sacraments of the Church.

26. They say, that Masses, Indulgences, and prayers do not profit the dead.

27. They admitted no prayers, but such as did correspond with the Lords prayer, which they made the rule of all their Prayers.

28. Lastly, Though their adversaries charged them with holding, that every lay-man might freely preach to the people, yet they had Bishops, and orders amongst themselves; as the Order of Bulgarie, the order of Druguria,; and they who were their Ministers were or­dained thereunto, though they were not of the Romish Institution, as Nicolus Viguierius, and others report of them.

God [...] Provi­dence. Persecution spreads the Gospel. King of France perse­cutes them. Valdo himself went into Dauphiney, conversing in the mountains of the same Province with certain rude persons, yet capable of receiving his belief: his Disciples also spread into Picardy, whence they were called Picards: against whom afterwards K. Philip (enforced by the Ecclesiastical persons) took arms, and overthrew three hundred gen­tlemens [Page 105] houses that followed their part, and destroied some walled Towns, pursuing them into Flanders, whether they fled, and causing many of them there to be burnt to death.

This persecution caused many of them to flie into Germany, and Al­satia, where they spread their Doctrine; and shortly after the Bi­shops of Mayence and Strasburg, raised up a great persecution against them, causing five and thirty Burgesses of Mayence to be burnt in one fire, and eighteen in another▪ who with great constancy suffered death.

At Strasburg eighty were burnt, at the instance of the Bishop; yet multitudes of people received such edification by the exhortations, constancy, and patience of the Martyrs, that Anno 1315. in the County of Passau, and about Bohemia, there were above eighty thousand persons that made profession of the same faith.Many burnt.

Anno Christi 1160. some of them came into England, and at Ox­ford were punished in the most barbarous and cruel manner as ever were any Christians for Religion-sake before the time,The spreading of the Gospel. as you may see in my English Martyrologie. And three years after in the Council of Turon, or Towers in France: viz. 1163. Pope A­lexander the third, made a decree, that these Gospellers, and all their favourers should be excommunicated, and that none should sell them any thing, or buy any thing of them, according as it was fore-prophesied, Rev. 13.17.

But notwithstanding all these devises they had goodly Churches in Bulgary, Croatia, Dalmatia, and Hungary. Malicious slanders. The Popish Monks to make them odious, and to have the better occasion to persecute them, raised up many foul slanders of them, as they were sorcerers, bug­gerers, &c. that they assembled themselves in the night time, and that the Pastors commanded the lights to be put out, saying, Qui potest capere, capiat, catch who catch can, whereupon they committed abominable incest, the son with the mother, the brother with the sister, the father with his daughter,Vindication. &c. they charged them also with many foul and false opinions: from which accusations they by a pub­lick Apology and vindication cleared themselves, which they pub­lished both in French and their own language.

Rainerus the Monk saith of them, that amongst all those which have risen up against the Church of Rome, the Waldenses were the most dan­gerous, in regard of their long continuance, for some say, that it hath continued from the time of Pope Silvester; and some say, from the Apostles time; and because this Sect (saith he) is more general, and there is scarce any Countrey in which it hath not taken footing: and because it hath a great appearance of piety, for they carry themselves uprightly before men, and believe rightly touching God in all things, holding all the Articles of the Creed, only they hate and revile the Church of Rome, The greate en­c [...]ease of the Waldenses. and therein (saith he) they are easily believed of the people.

Cesarius saith, that this Heresie so encreased, that in a short time it in­fected usque ad mille civitates, a thousand Cities. Parsons saith, that they [Page 106] had an Army of seventy thousand men to fight for them; yea, they were so spread in Germany, that they could travel from Collen to Mi­lan in Italy, and every night lodge with Hosts of their own profession.

Hereupon the Pope hath always used all his art for their utter ex­tirpation, by his Thunder-bolts, Curses, Canons, Constitutions, Decrees, and whatsoever else might make them odious to Kings, Princes, and people,Popish rage and malice. giving them over to Satan, interdicting them all Communion and society with others, making them incapable of any charges, ho­nours, profits, to inherit lands, to make wills to be buried in Church-yards, yea, confiscating their goods, dis-inheriting their heirs, and where they could apprehend any of them, they condemned them to be delivered to the secular power, their houses to be razed, their lands and goods to be confiscated, commanding Kings, Princes, Magistrates, Consuls, and people, to make an exact inquisition, to shut the City-gates, to ring the Toll-bell, to arm themselves, to apprehend, kill, or use any other violence to them, giving to their Accusers a third part of their Estates, condemning all favorers of them to the same punishment.

Anno Christ, 1163. came some of these godly persons to Collen in Germany out of the parts of Flanders, where they secretly remained for a time in a barn near the City:Five burnt at Collen. But the diligence of the Popish Clergy found them out by their not coming to their Church, and so caused, them, to be apprehended, and brought before them; and af­ter examination because they constantly adhered to the truth, and would by no means be brought to recant the same, they condemned them, and delivered them to the secular power: who carrying them out of the City, (being four men, and one young woman) they first bound the four men to a stake, and set fire to them: The people much pitied the young woman, and would fain have saved her, hoping that the burning of her companions would have wrought her to a re­cantation; but she perceiving their drift, strugled out of the hands of those that held her, and voluntarily leaped into the fire, whereby she was burned with them. Godfridus Monachus.

A bloody Edict against the Waldenses. Anno Christi, 1194. Aldephonsus King of Arragon (probably by the instigation of Pope Celestine, and mis-information of his Clergy) published this evil Edict against them.

Aldephonsus by the grace of God King of Arragon, &c. to all Arch-Bishops, Bishops, and the rest of the Prelates of the Church in his Kingdom, to Earls, Vi­counts, Knights, and all the people of his Kingdom, and to all that are in Au­thority, health, &c. Because God would have us to be over his people, it is a wor­thy and just thing that we take continual care as far as in us lies of the salvati­on, and defence of them: Wherefore being imitators of our Predecessors, and in obedience to the Canons, we judge that all Hereticks cast out of the sight of God and of all Catholicks, are to be condemned, and persecuted every where, namely the Waldenses, or poor men of Lyons, whereof there is no number, who being cursed by his holy Church: We also command to depart, and flie from all our Kingdoms, and places within our power, as enemies to the Cross of Christ, our selves, and this Kingdom. Therefore from this day forward [Page 107] shall presume to receive the foresaid Waldenses into their houses, or to hear their doleful preaching, or to give them meat, or any other relief, let him know, that he hath incurred the indignation of God, and of us, and that he shall be punished as a Traitor, and all his goods shall be confiscated without remedy or appeal. And this our Edict we command to be published upon Sundays by Bishops, and all Rectors of Churches, &c. through all our Dominions. And we command that the foresaid punishments be inflicted upon all Transgressors of it by our Bailyffs, Justices, &c. And if any of the foresaid naughty, people whether noble, or ignoble, shall presume to stay three days after the publication hereof, and not hast their removal, we will, and command all men to bring upon them all mischief, disgrace, and agrievance (except death, or cutting off their members) which shall be gratefull and acceptable to us, neither shall they fear any punishment for the same, &c. But this same Aldephonsus that made this cruel Edict by the just retribution of God, the very next year lost part of his Kingdom to the Moors, and his son having also fifty thousand of his men slain in one battel. Hoveden.

The Popelings exercising such cruelty against the Gospellers,They defend themselves by Arms. they began to defend themselves by arms, repelling force with force: and when, being overpowred by multitude, they could defend themselves no longer, they left their places, and became souldiers abroad, and many of them became very helpfull to our King Henry the second in his Wars, when he was molested about Arch-Bishop Beckets death: Also our King Richard the first at his return out of the Holy land, (as they called it) made good use of them (who though they were curs­ed by the Pope, yet were they blessed by God) for the recovery of his right, and for the defence of his people.

Valdo notwithstanding all the curses of the Pope, continued to pub­lish, that the Pope was Anti-Christ, the Mass an abomination,Valdo's Zeal and Courage. the Host an Idol, and Purgatory a fable: whereupon Pope Innocent the third, Anno, 1198, seeing that the other remedies were not sufficient to sup­press these Hereticks, as he called them, authorized certain Monks Inquisitors, who by process should apprehend and deliver them to the secular power, by a far shorter, but much more cruel way then was used formerly; for by this means the people were delivered by thou­sands into the Magistrates hands, and by them to the Executioners, whereby in a few years all Christendom was moved with compassion, to see all those burnt and hanged, that did trust only in Christ for salvation.

The Pope seeing that this suppressed not, but rather increased the number of his enemies,Sang [...]i [...] Marty­rum, semen Ec­clesia. sent certain Bishops and Monks to preach in those places of the Waldenses, but their preaching converted not any of them from their former opinions.

Amongst those Monks was Dominick, who was a zealous persecutor of these Saints of God both in word and deed,Dominicans instituted. who seeing himself to be in Authority▪ instituted an Order of begging Monks, called after his name Dominicans, which order was confirmed by the Pope, for their [Page 108] zealous assisting of him against the Waldenses, and this Dominick labour­ed in the inquisition with such contentment to the Popes, that from that time forward the Monks of his order have always been imploied in the inquisition.

The power of these Inquisitors was without limitation, they could assemble the people by the sound of a bell when they pleased, proceed against the Bishops themselves,Inquisitors be­gun, An. Chri. 1176· they could imprison and re­lease without controul: Any accusation was sufficient with them: A sor­cerer▪ a whore was a sufficient witness in the case of pretended Heresie: It mattered not who accused, or whether by word of mouth, or ticket thrown in before the Inquisitors: for process was thereby framed with­out party,Injustice. without witness, or without other Law, then the pleasure of the Inquisitors.

To be rich was a crime near to Heresie, and he that had any thing to lose, was in the way to be undone, either as an Heretick, or as a favou­rer of them: yea, bare suspition stopped the mouths of parents, kins­folk, and friends, that they durst not intercede each for other. If any did but convey a cup of cold water,Prodigious cruelty. or a pad of straw to the poor Saints that lay in stinking dungeons, he was condemned as a favourer of the Hereticks, and brought to the same or worse extremities.

No Advocate durst undertake the defence of his nearest kinsman, or friends: no Notary durst receive any Act in his favour; yea, death it self made not an end of their punishment, for sometimes they passed sentence against the bones of the dead, to dis-inter and burn them, it may be thirty years after the death of the party accused.

Such as were heirs had nothing certain, for if their fathers or kindred were accused they durst not undertake the defence of their own right, possess their own inheritance, without the crime or suspition of Heresie. The greatest and richest amongst the people were constrained even to adore these Monks Inquisitors, and to give them great sums for the building of their Convents & houses, for fear to be accused of Heresie.

And the better to keep the people in aw, these Inquisitors would sometimes lead in Triumph their prisoners in their processions, enjoyn­ing some of them to whip themselves, others to go in their shirts bare-foot and bare-headed, having a With about their necks; and a torch in their hands for the greater terrour to the beholders, seeing persons of all estates and sexes in so miserable a condition.

Some of these accused persons were sent into the holy Land, or en­rolled for some other expedition against the Turks and Infidels, where they were to serve for a certain time at their own charge: in the mean time these Fathers Inquisitors took possession of their houses and goods, and when they returned home, they must not so much as enquire whether these Monks had in their absence lain with their wives, lest they would be condemned as back-sliders, and unworthy of favour.

Anno Christi, 1201. A gallant Knight that was one of these Wal­denses, called Enraudus, whom Henry, Earl of Nivers had made Go­nour of his land,A Knight burned. was accused of Heresie, and brought before the [Page 109] Popes Legat, who called a Common Council at Paris against him, consisting of the Arch-Bishop, Bishops, and Ministers of Paris, who after examination of witnesses, condemned him for an Heretick, and so delivered him to the secular power, by whom he was burned in the flames. Chron. Rol. Altissiodorensis.

In Octo. Anno Christi, 1207. in the Town of Mont-royal near Carcasson in the Earldom of Tholouse, A Disputation between the Popelings and the Waldenses. there was held a famous dispu­tation between Didacus Bishop of Oxon, a Spaniard: Frier Dominick; Peter of the New Castle, the Popes Legat, and Raph his Colleague on the one party, and Arnold Hot, Pastor of the Albingenses, with some other of his fellow-labourers on the other party: The Arbi­trators were two noble men, viz, Bernard de villa nova, and Pernail of Arras; and two Plebians, viz. Raimond Godius, and Arnold Ribe­ria, The Questions disputed upon were these: First, that the Church of Rome is not the Spouse of Christ, nor an holy Church, but an impure one, and instructed by the Doctrine of Satan. Se­condly, That their Ecclesiastical Polity is not good, nor holy, nor established by Jesus Christ. Thirdly, That the Mass, as it is cele­brated therein, was not instituted by Christ, or his Apostles. The Bishop undertook to prove the contrary: but after three days disputa­tion, he desired fifteen days to commit his Arguments to writing; and Arnold Hot required eight days to put in his Answer.

At the day appointed the Bishop brought in a very long writing; and Hot desired to answer by word of mouth, intreating his Auditors that he might not seem troublesom to them, if he were long in an­swering so long a discourse; and it was granted that he should be heard with patience without interruption, and so he discoursed for divers hours four days together, to the great admiration of all that heard him, and so ready was he therein, that all the Bishops, Abbats, Monks, and Priests, wished themselves elsewhere: For he framed his answer to each point in order, as it was set down in the writing, and that with such plainness and perspicuity, that he gave all that were present to understand, that this Bishop, though he had writen much, yet had he concluded nothing that might truly turn to the ad­vantage of the Church of Rome against his Assertions: Then did Arnold request, that forasmuch as the Bishops, and himself in the beginning of the conference, were bound to prove whatsoever they affirmed by the Word of God only, it might now be imposed upon the Bishops, and Priests to make good their Mass as they sing it, part by part, to have been instituted by the son of God, and so used by the Apostles, &c. But the Bishops were not able to prove that the Mass, or any part of it was so ordained or used, whereupon they were much discontented, and ashamed. Arnold pro­ceeded to prove that it was not instituted by Christ or his Apo­stles.The Popelings bafled. For (said he) if the Mass were the holy Supper instituted by our Saviour, there would remain after the consecration, that which was in the supper of our Lord, viz. Bread: But in the Mass there is no bread; [Page 110] For by transubstantiation the bread is vanished, therefore the Mass is not the holy Supper of the Lord: &c. The Bishops, Legats, Monks, and Priests having nothing to answer to these things, retired themselves: not being willing to here any more: and fearing least these Gospellers should work such an impression on the hearts of those that were present, as might shake their beliefe touching the Masse, they dessolved the A­ssembly. Nich Vignerius.

Between the years 1176. which was the time when this Inquisition was first erected, to the year 1228. there was so great a havock made of poor Christians, that the Arch-Bishops of Aix, Arles, and Narbonne, being assembled at the request of the said Inquisitors, to conferre with them about divers difficulties in the execution of their offices,Horrible cru­elty. had com­passion of the great number that were accused & cast into prison, saying, We hear that you have apprehended such a multitude of the Waldenses, that it is not only impossible to defray the charge of their food, but to provide lime and stone to build prisons for them, we therefore advise you to forbear this rigour till the Pope be advertised, and direct what he will have done in this case, &c. Yet notwithstanding all this cruelty, there was in the year 1260. according to the report of George Morrel in his memorials,The number of the Waldenses. p. 54. above eight hundred thousand persons that made profession of the faith of the Waldenses.

Besides the Churches that they had in Valentinois, where their faith was propagated from the father to the son, their religion spread also beyond the Alps into the valley of Pragela, within the jurisdiction of the Arch-Bishop of Turin, from whence were peopled the Waldensian Valleys of Piedmont, La Perouse, S. Martain, Angrogne, &c. This valley of Pargela was one of the safest retiring places that the Waldenses had, being environed on all sides with mountains almost inaccessible, into the caves whereof they retired themselves in the times of persecution: and though they were weakned on all sides, environed with enemies, and in danger of being apprehended if they looked but forth of their doors; yet was there never any wordly respect that had power to alter their holy resolution from the father to the sonne,Their godly lives. to serve God, taking his Word for the rule of their faith, & his Law for the rule of their obedience: yea, no sooner were the infants weaned from their mothers breasts, but their parents took a singular delight to instruct them in the Christian faith.

Good Pastors.There Pastors also did not only preach to them on the Sabbath daies, but went in the week daies to instruct them in the villages and hamlets, not sparing themselves for the roughnesse of the rocks, the coldnesse of the ayr, and the cragginesse of the country, where they were fain to climbe up high mountains to visit their flocks.

There was also holy Discipline exercised amongst them: The people praied with fervency at night when they went to their rest, and in the morning before the went about their labour: They had Schools wherein their children were taught and nurtured.

B [...]t whilest they thus busily sought the advancement of Gods glory and their own salvation,Persecution raised. the devil raised up a persecution against them. [Page 111] Anno 1380. by a Monk Inquisitor, called Francis Boralli, who had a commission to enquire after the Waldenses in Aix, Arles, Ambrun, Viene, Geneva, Aubone, Savoy, the Venetian County, the Principality of Orenge, the City of Avignion, &c. which commission he received from Pope Cle­ment the seventh.

This Monk cited to appeare before him at Ambrun, all the Inhabi­tants of Frassiniere, Argentire, and of the valley Pute upon pain of ex­communication: but they appeared not, whereupon they were con­demned of contumacy, and excommunicated:Popish cruelty▪ and for the space of thirteen years, as he caught any of them, he delivered them up to the se­cular power to be burnt at Grenoble, the number of whom was an hun­dred and fifty men, divers women, with many of their sons and daugh­ters; besides about eighty persons of Argentire.

The Inquisitors also adjudged to themselves two par [...]s of all their goods▪ and the third part to the temporal powers: they forbad all their bordering neighbours also to assist, receive, visit, or defend them or to converse with them in any sort upon pain of being attainted, and punish­ed as favourers of Hereticks, &c.

The Waldenses of the valley of Pragela, In Pragela. Anno 1400. were assaulted by their enemies on the side of Susa in Piedmont: but most of their assaults proved in vain, because these Waldenses retired into the high moun­tains, hiding themselves in the caves and hollow places thereof, from whence they much endamaged those that came to assail them. Their enemies seing this, came upon them in the depth of winter, when those poor people never suspected it, all the mountains being covered over with snow:Popish malice. and thereupon they retired into the highest mountain of all the Alps, together with their wives and children, the mothers carrying some in their cradles, and leading others by the hand: yet the enemy followed them till night, and slew many before they could recover the mountain: and they which were so slain had the better bargain: for night coming on, these poor people being in the snow, without any meanes to make a fire for their infants, many of them were benummed,Infants star­ved to death. and in the morning above eighty of them were frozen to death in their cradles, and most of their mothers died also, and divrese others were giving up the last gasp: The enemies lay all night in these peoples houses, which they ransacked and pillaged, and so returned to Susa, but by the way, meeting with a poor Waldensian woman,Popish cruel­ty. they hanged her upon a tree, and so departed.

The VValdenses of the valley of Frassiniere, Frassiniere▪ were greatly persecuted by the Arch-Bishop of Ambrun, Anno 1460. who made a Monk cal­led John Vayleti his Commissioner against them, which Monk pro­ceeded with such diligence and violence, that scarce any person could escape his hands, but that he was either apprehended for an Heretick, Popish cruelty. or a favourer of them, whereby many Papists suffered amongst the rest, which caused them to petition King Lewis the eleventh of France, by his authority to stay the course of that persecution:The King for­bids the perse­cution. and thereupon the King wrote his Letter to the Governour of Dauphine, signifying, that whereas the Inquisitors had daily sent forth their processe against many [Page 112] poor people in those parts without reasonable cause, putting some to the rack, and condemning them for matters whereof they were never guilty, and which they could not prove by any witnesse: and of others they had exacted great sums of money, and divers waies had unjustly vexed, and molested them: he therefore decreed that for the time to come all such processe should be void, and of none effect, nor any wrong done to them in body, goods, or good name, except there were any that obstinately maintained and affirmed any thing against the holy Catholicke Faith.

Yet the Arch-Bishop conti­nues it.But the Arch-Bishop was so far from ceasing the persecution upon this Edict, that he grew more violent by reason of the last clause, pre­tending that he did not any thing contrary to the Kings precept, see­ing they which were cited, appeared not to justifie themselves, &c. He also suborned many Priests, which were his own Officers, to depose, that all they which had petitioned the King were VValdenses: Popish malice. Slanders. He also hired one John Pelegrin to accuse them for assembling themselves in dark places to commit whoredom, &c. and then he sent to the Court to justifie himself from the complaint made to the King against him, that he had persecuted the Waldenses rather out of covteousness to get their goods, then out of zeal to the Catholick Faith: but this single witness prevailed but litle, seeing there were many other who deposed, that they had never seen any such villany amongst the Waldenses, nor any the least appearance of the same.

Yet did not the Archbishop cease to prosecute them to the utter­most of his power, so that he caused most of them to flie away, only one James Pateneri stood to it, averring before the Court that he was unjustly vexed,Ja Pateneri contrary to the Kings Letters, demanding a copy of the proceedings, that he might right himself by Law: [...]hereupon the Archbishop left him, and fell upon those that wanted the like cou­rage, citing the Consuls of Frassiniere to answer for themselves, and all the inhabitants of their valley: But they refused, saying, that they had nothing to say before the Archbishop, seeing their cause was now depending before the King and his Council,The Arch-Bishops cruelty. protesting against the Archbishops power, and demanding a copy of the Kings Letter: But the Archbishop, notwithstanding this protestation, sent them to the fire, without any other indictment.

Yet the Lord left not this cruelty long unrevenged, for shortly after the Archbishop died by the stroak of Gods justice,Gods judge­ment on perse­cutors. and so ended his Persecution▪ Anno Christi 1487.

One villany of the Inquisitor Valeti may not be forgoten, which was this: When he examined any of the Waldenses, Whether he be­leeved that the bread in the Sacrament, after the consecration, was changed into the reall and naturall body of Christ which hung upon the crosse? If the Waldenses answered, No; he set down his answer thus, That he beleeved not in God. When he asked, Whether we ought not to pray to Saints?Popish lies. If they answred, No; he set down, That the railed upon, and spake evil of the Saints. When he enquired, Whether we [Page 113] ought not to pray to the Virgin Mary in our necessities? If they answer­ed No; he set down, That they spake blasphemy against the Virgin Mary, &c.Gods provi­dence. And by Gods providence these Records were kept in the Arch-bish­op of Ambruns house, till the City and their Records fell into the hands of the Protestants an hundred years after, and so God brought all their knavery to light.

Anno 1488. Pope Innocent the eight sent Albert de capitaneis, Arch-Deacon of Cremona against these Waldenses, who craved aid of the Kings Lieutenant of Dauphine, against them. This Lieutenant for his service levied troops of men, and at the Arch-Deacons request,Popish subtilty led them against the Waldenses in the valley of Loyse, and to colour his proceedings with a pretence of justice, he took a Counsellour of the Court along with him. But when they came to the valley, they found no inhabitants, for they were all retired into their Caves in the high mountains, having carried their little children, and all their provision of food with them. Then did this cruel Lieutenant cause much wood to be laid to the mouths of the caves, and set it on fire,Barbarous cru­eltie.. so that some were choaked with smoak, others burnt with the fire, others cast themselves headlong from the rocks, and were broken in pieces; and if any stirred out, they were presently slain by the souldiers.

In this Persecution,A girevous per­secution. there were found within the Caves four hun­dred infants stif [...]ed in their cradles, or in the arms of their dead mo­thers: and in all, there perished above three thousand men and women at that time, so that there were no inhabitants left in all that valley: And to prevent the coming of any more of them thither, the Lieutenant gave all their goods and possessions to whom he pleased.

Then did he march against the Waldenses of Pragela, and Frassa­niere, but they, providing for their own safety, attended him at the passages and narrow straits of their vallies,The Lieute­nant repulsed. so that he was forced to retire.

After a while Albert de Capitaneis, being called to another place, he substituted a Franciscan named Francis Ploieri, who Anno 1489. began anew to informe against the Waldenses of Fressaniere, citing them to appeare before him at Ambrun, and for non-appearing, he ex­communicated them, and condemned them for Hereticks, to be de­livered to the secular power, and there goods to be confiscated; and in this judgement, their assisted one Ponce, a certain Counsellour of Dauphine. These men afterwards caught two of their Pastors [Fran­cis Gerondin, and Peter James] who being asked why the Waldenses in­creased so fast, and spread so far; they answered,Plain dealing. Because the Popish Priests live so dissolutly, and because the Cardinals are so covetous, proud and luxurious, it being commonly known that there is neither Pope, Popish un­cleannesse. Cardi­nall, nor Bishop, but keeps his whores, and few or none but had their youths for Sodomy besides; And therefore it is easie for the Waldensian Pastors to perswade the people, that their religion could not be good, whose fruits were so bad, &c

This Persecution grew exceeding hot, the Inquisitor and Councel­lor [Page 114] sending as many as they could catch to the fire without admit­ting any appeal: and if any interceded for them, though the father for the childe, or the child for the father, he was presently committed to prison,In Dauphine. and indicted as a favourer of Hereticks.

Anno 1594. Anthoni Fabri, and Christopher de Salience had Comis­sions sent them from the Pope,The weaknesse of a woman. to commence suit against the Walden­ses in Dauphine, who apprehending the widow of one Peter Berand, they imprisoned, and oft examined her, and thereby drew from her whatever she knew of the Assemblies of the Waldenses, of the persons that frequented them, and of the places and times of their meeting, which afterwards brought great trouble to the said Churches of Christ, and of gain to the Inquisitors.

King Lewis the twelfth succeeding King Francis, Anno 1598. the inhabitants of Frassaniere petitioned him to take some order for the resti­tution of their goods, which by the Inquisitors were deteined from them. The King referred it to his Chancelor, who procured a Commissary from the Poppe, and Commissioner from the King, to be sent down to examine the businesse; These accordingly, having examined divers wit­nesses against the Waldenses, The innocen­cy of the Wal­denses. and finding their innocency, did at last ab­solve them; the Kings Commissioner publickely professing, that he de­sired to be but as good a Christian as the worst of those of Frassaniere were: and returning to the King, they made report to him of that which they had done: The King thereupon ordered that the goods of the Wal­denses should be restored▪

When the Kings order came to Ambrun, it was the opinion of most men, that seeing most of these goods were in the possession of the Arch-Bishop, that therefore he should give a good example in begin­ing to restore them, but the Arch-Bishop answered, that the goods which he held were annexed to his Arch-Bishoprick,Popish subtilty and injustice. and incorporated to his Church and, therefore it was out of the Kings jurisdiction, and he did not beleeve that the King would meddle therein: Yet being willing to please the King, he profered to restore them their Vineyards, provided that the Lords of Dauphine would restore the goods which they had; but there was not one that would restore what they had so unjustly gotten, so that the poor people where wholly frustrated of their expectation.

Then did the summon the Arch-Bishop and those refusers before the King, but these great ones having more friends and favour at Court, then the poor people had, their excuse was admitted, which was, that they could not restore the goods, before the Pope had ab­solved those of Frassaniere from the sentence of excommunication. Anno 1560. The President of Provence made a speech to the assembly of Estates to root out these Waldenses: Whereupon they raised an Army for the effecting of it; but as soon as the men were in Arms, it pleased God,A speciall pro­vidence. by the death of King Francis, to put an end to that design, whereby the Waldensian Churches in Dauphine enjoyed peace, and were well furnished with godly Pastors, who held them in the ex­ercise [Page 115] of religion, though they were in continuall danger of being per­secuted to the death for the same.

The Waldenses in Dauphine, many years before being multiplyed, so that the countrey could not feed them, dispersed themselves abroad into divers parts, whereof some went into Piedmont, In Piedmont. who lived in great love with those of Da [...]phine, and though they were alwaies oppressed with troubles, yet with hearty love and charity, they ever-succoured one another,Love. not sparing their lives and goods for their mutuall conservation.

The first Persecution in Piedmont were occasioned by the Preists, who complained to the Arch-Bishop of Turin, Popish malice. that these people lived not according to the manner and belief of the Church of Rome; that they offered not for the dead, cared not for Masses, Absolutions, or to get any of theirs out of the pains of Purgatory, &c. Hereupon the Arch-Bishop persecuted them, complaining of them to their Princes to make them odious: But the Prince enquiring of their neighbours, heard that they were of a good conversation, fearing God, without deceit or malice, loving plain dealing, alwaies ready to serve their Prince with alacrity, &c. He therefore purposed not to molest them: But the Priests and Monks gaining nothing by their belief, charged them with an infinite number of calumnies,Slanders. and ever and anon catch­ing one or other of them, they delivered them to the Inquisitors, and the Inquisitors to the executioners,Persecution in Piedmont. so that there was scarce a Town or City in Piedmont, wherein some of them had not been put to death.

At Turin one of them had his bowels torn out of his belly,Cruelty. and put into a bason before his face, and then was he cruelly martyred,

At Revel in the Marquisat of Saluces, one Catelin Girard being on the block whereon he should be burnt,Cat. Girard. requested his Executioner to give him two stones, which he refused to do, fearing least he would throw them at some body, but he protesting the contrary, at last they gave him two stones, which he held in his hands, and said, When I shall have eaten these stones, then shall you see an end of our Religion, for [...]hich you now put me to death, and so he threw them on the ground, and died cheerfully.

Thus they burnt many of them in the fire, till Anno 1488. and then they resolved to assault them by open force, because they saw that otherwise they should never be able to extirpate them: besides,Popish malice. their constant sufferings converted many to the faith. Hereupon they levied an Army of eighteen thousand men, besides many inhabitants of Pied­mont, who ran to the pillage from all parts. These marched all at once to Angrogne, L [...]cerne, La Perouse, &c. They raised also forces in Dau­phine, where with they over-ran the Valley of Pragela, so that they be­ing put to defend themselves, could not assist their friends in Piedmont. But the enemy by this division of his forces, being weakned, was every where beaten, especially in the Valley of Angrogne, where the VVal­densians having been informed of the levies of their enemies against them, prepared themselves to receive and resist them, keeping [Page 116] the strait passages, where few men might defend themselves against many.

They defended themselves with long Targets of wood, whereby they covered themselves from the hurt of their enemies arrows. Whilst they were thus bickering with their enemies, the women and children upon their knees cried out, O God help us. The enemies made them­selves merry with this fight,Prayer. and amongst them, one Capt. Saquet, who as he was imitating the woman,Profanenesse. A just judge­ment. was slain, and tumbled down into a ve­ry deep valley.

Another Captain, crying out to the women in derision, was killed with the shot of an arrow in the throat. Hereupon the souldiers be­took themselves all to their heels, and the greatest part slew themselves, by tumbling down from the rocks.

Another providence of God was this, that the enemies approaching to the stongest entrance by nature, might their have fortified them­selves,A specall proui­dence. and so made themselves masters of that Valley: But God sent so thick a cloud, and dark a fog, that they could scarce see one ano­ther, whereby they wanted opportunity to discover their advantage, and therefore departed: which the VValdenses seeing, couragiously pursued them,Gods judge­ment on per­secutors and by that means the enemy being dispersed, and not seeing which waies they went, the greatest part fell headlong down the mountains, quitting their arms and booty which they had gotten at their first entrance into the Valley, by which means the Waldenses recovered it again,

Then it pleased God to move the Princes heart (which was Philip the seventh, Duke of Savoy; and Lord of Piedmont) with pity towards these poor people,Gods mercy. saying, That he would not have that people which had been alwaies true, faithfull and obedient to him, to be unjustly destroyed by Arms; being content that twelve of the Principall should come to him to Pignerol to crave pardon for all the rest, for ta­king arms in their own defence, without his authority: These he en­tertained lovingly, forgiving all that was past, during the warre. And having been informed that all their children were born with black throats,Slanders. with foure rows of teeth, and all hairy, he caused some of them to be brought to him, and seeing them fair and perfect creatures, he was much displeased with himself for beleeving so easily the reports which were brought to him against them, giving command that none should hereafter molest them, but that they should enjoy all the pri­viledges which they rest of his subjects in Piedmont did.

Notwithstanding which, the Monks Inquisitors daily sent out pro­cesse against them, lay in wait for them, and as they could aprehend any of them, delievered them over to the secular power. This Perse­cution lasted to Anno. 1532. at which time the Waldenses ordered that there exercises of religion should be performed no more in covert, as formerly they had been, but in publick, that every one might know them,Zeole and cour­ageth. and that their Pastors should preach the Gospell openly, not fear­ing any persecution that might happen unto them.

[Page 117] The prince being advertised hereof, was highly offended with them, and thereupon caused one of his Commanders to hast with his Troops into the said Vallies,Persecution renued. which was performed with such dili­gence, that he was entred with five hundred horse and Foot, before they were aware, ransacking, plundering and wasting all before them. Then did the Waldenses leave their ploughs, putting themselves into passes, and with their slings charged their enemies with such multi­tudes of stones, that they were constraned to flie, and to abandon their prey, many remaining dead upon the ground.

This news was presently carried to the Prince, and withall he was told, that these people were not to be subdued with Arms, they know­ing bettter the straits of their Country, then the assailants, and that the skin of one of the Waldenses would cost him the lives of a dozen of his other subjects: where upon he vsed Arms no more against them, but as any of them was caught in Piedmont, he put them to death, if they changed not their belief.

Notwithstanding with rigour, they persisted in their resolution,Constancy. and that things might be carried on in the better order, they assembled out of all their Vallies to Angrogne, Anno 1535. viz. the heads of all their families, with their Pastors, where they heard that their bre­thren of Provence, and Dauphine had sent two of their Pastors, George Morrell, and Peter Masson into Germany, to confere with Oecolampadius Bucer, and others, about their relief, which they had held from fa­ther to son, time out of minde. Where also the Germane Divines ac­knowledged that God had been very mercifull and gracious to them, in preserving them undefiled,The antiquity of the Faith. in the midst of so many superstitions which had defiled all Christendom under the tyranny of Antichrist; encouraging and exhorting them not to bury those Talents which God had given them: onely they blamed them for delaying so long to make a publick profession of their adhering to the Gospel▪ and cau­sing it to be preached publickly, leaving the success to God, &c. Then were the Letters of Oecolampadius and Bucer, which they sent to them, openly read, together with the Propositions and Articles of Religion which they had agreed upon, which were all approved, sign­ed and sworn to by all the assistants with one consent, to perform,Unity. ob­serve, beleeve and retain amongst them inviolably, as being confor­mable to the Doctrine which they had been taught from their fore-fathers for many hundred years, and all taken out of the Word of god.

When this Agreement came abroad to the ears of the Priests, they were much astonished, despairing to see these people reclaimed and brought back to the Church of Rome; whereupon they retired from amongst them without speaking a word.

The Waldenses, because they had only the New Testament and some books of the old, amongst them in the Waldensian Tongue,Zeal. resol­ved speedily to send the whole Bible to the Press, all their books hi­therto being but Manuscripts, and those but a few. They sent there­fore [Page 118] some to Newcastle in Suitzerland, where they gave 1500. Crowns in gold to a Printer, who brought to light the first Impression of the Fre [...]ch Bible that was seen in France. The first French Bibles printed. They sent also to Geneva to make a large supply of books fit for the instruction of the people; but their messenger, as he passed over the hill de Gap, was apprehended for a spy by the Lord of Champelion, and as soon as they knew him to be a Waldensian, they sent him to Grenople, where he was first imprison­ed;One of them drowned. and then in the night drowned in the river, least he should speak of his belief before the people.

Shortly after there happened warres between King Francis the first, and the Princes of Piedmont, which, through Gods grace, turned to the great peace and quiet of these poor people;A speciall pro­vidence. which peace continu­ed till Pope Paul the third sollicited the Parliament of Turin to perse­cute them as pernicious Hereticks: Whereupon the Parliament caused a great number of them to be burnt at Turin. The Pope stirs up persecution. Then these Waldenses petitioned the King that they might not be persecuted for their Religi­on, in which they and their Ancestors had lived for many hundred years. But the King reiected their petition, commanding them to live according to the Laws of the Roman Church, upon pain of being punished as Hereticks: adding, that he did not burn the Lutherans through his whole Kingdom of France, to let them amongst the Alps escape.

Hereupon the Parliament of Turin commanded them presently to send away all their Ministers, and receive the Priests to sing Masse. &c. Courage. To which they answered, that they could not receive any such commandment, it being contrary to Gods Word, whom they would rather obey then men.A special pro­vidence. But through Gods mercy, the King had other imploiments elsewhere; whereby they wanted leasure to prosecute these servants of Christ, and therefore they only proceeded by the In­quisition, receiving such as the Monks condemned to the fire.

Bar. Hector. Anno 1555. They increased the persecution, condemning to the fire Bartholmew Hector a Stationer, to be executed at Turin, who died with admirable constancy, and so edifying the spectators, that they wept and compassionated him, justifying him in their speeches, and praying for him. Hereupon the Parliament resolved wholly to extir­pate them, and for that end sent two men with authority, either to re­form, or root them out.

These persons went first to Perouse, where by Proclamation in the Kings name, they command all to go to Masse upon pain of loosing their lives.Persecution. renewed. Then they went to Pignorol, where they cited many to ap­pear before them: and amongst others, a poor simple labouring man appeared, whom the President commanded to have his childe re-bap­zed by a Priest: The man requested respite to pray to God before he answered him,Profanenesse. which with great laughter was granted: Then fal­ling down on his knees, he prayed unto God, and when he had done, he said to the President; I will cause my child to be rebaptised, up­on condition that you will give me a bill, signed with your own hand, [Page 119] that you will discharge me of the sin which I shall commit hereby,Prudence. and bear one day before God the punishment and condemnation which should befall me for the same, taking this iniquity upon you and yours: The President hearing this, commanded him out of his presence, and pressed him no further.

The President framed diverse Indictments against sundry persons in the Vallies, and collected whatsoever he thought might hurt them: and going to one of their Churches, he caused a Monk, that he brought along with him, to preach in the presence of the people; and when he had ended, the people desired that some one of their Pastors there present might answer his discourse, but that was denied by the President, whereupon there was such a murmur amongst the people, that the President, without any more speech, gat him away to Turin, where he reported all to the Parliament, and withall told them, that if they sought by violence to reclaime this people, they were resolued to defend themselves; and that the places of their abode, were of such strength, that it was a work for a King of France to root them out. Thereupon, this report and the Indictments were sent to the King, who having other occasions, returned no answer that year: Only the Inquisitors proceeded as they could catch any, to deliver them to the secular power.

At the years end, the King commanded the Parliament to cause them to do that by force,Popish malice. which they would not by words be brought to. Then did the Parliament send the President again to Angrogne, where he commanded them in the name of the King, to go to Masse upon pain of forfeiting their lives and goods; but they answered, that they could not obey such commands against the command of God. Then he commanded that twelve of the Principal of them, together with all their Ministers and Schoolmasters, should presently yeeld up their bodies to the prisons of Turin, &c. They answered, that they could not obey that command or appear at Turin, because they should thereby endanger their lives. The Parliament was so incensed at this answer, that as many as they could apprehend, they burnt, amongst whom was Jeffery Varnegle Minister of Angrogne, Anno 1557. by whose death the people that were present were much edified, seeing his constancy of invocating God to the last.

The Protestant Princes of Germany hearing of this great Persecuti­on, interceded in their behalf to King Henry the second of France. The German Prince inter­ceds for them. Who promised to have regard to this request of theirs, and indeed they enjoyed peace afterwards, till the peace was concluded betwixt the Kings of France and Spain, and that the Duke of Savoy was resto­red to his Estate, which was Anno 1559. The year after, the Popes Nuntio reproved the Duke, for that with all his power he had not per­secuted the Waldenses, and that if he did not now endeavour to reduce them to the Romish Church, or to root them out, his Holinesse should have cause to suspect that he was a favourer of them.Popish malice. Hereupon the Duke presently commanded them to go to Mass, upon the pain of their [Page 120] lives: But the not obeying him he set upon them by open force, and yet at the same time,A great perse­cution. he caused them to be pursued by the Monks Inquisitors also: So that a great Persecution was raised against the poor Christians: Some were taken and burnt, who shewed invincible constancy in all their torments and death.

To recite all the outrages, cruelties and villanies practised against them, would be too tedious: Many fled, and their houses and goods were ransacked and spoiled: One of their Ministers was apprehended, and put to a shamefull and cruell death, but he shewed such admirable patience therein, as astonished his very adversaries. Some also were taken and sent to be Gally-slaves: Yet some, through weakness, yeelded to the adversaries, and were more cruelly handled then those that re­mained constant in the truth.Humane infir­mity.

Three of the most cruel persecutors of these faithfull servants of Jesus Christ, were, first Thomas Jacomel a Monk, an Apostate, that had renounced the known truth, and persecuted mortally and maliciously the poor Christians against his own conscience: he was a whoremon­ger, and given over to all villanies, and filthy living, a Sodomite, &c. his delight was to spoil, rob, and torment the captives of these Walden­ses. The second was a collaterall, called Corbis, who in the examination of the prisoners was very rigorous, and burnt many of them: but in the end feeling a remorse in his conscience, he protested that he would meddle with them no more: The third was the Provest of Justice, who lay in wait in the high waies to apprehend them when they went abroad in the morning, or as they went to the Market.

The Monks also of Pignorol vexed the Churches near about them grievously,Popish malice. some they took prisoners, and kept them in their Abbies: then they assembled a company of Ruffians, sending them to spoil the Churches, and to take prisoners, men, women, and childen; of whom some by torments they forced to abjure, others they sent to the Galleys others they burnt.

The gentlemen of the valley of S. Martin vexed their tenants grie­vously: spoiling some of their goods, imprisoning others, and vexing them by all means: Two of those gentlemen getting some Ruffians to them in the night time, set upon a village called Renclaret, which the Inhabitants perceiving, fled into the mountains covered with snow, naked, and without victuals: in the morning these villains took a Mi­nister of that Valley, who was coming to visit these people of Renclaret, and burnt him: but three nights after they of Pragela, pitying their friends of Renclaret, A speciall pro­vidence. sent four hundred men against the Ruffians, who fought with them, and without the losse of one man, put them to flight, and restored their friends to their houses.

A year after, one of these gentlemen called Truchet, with a company of Ruffians, arrested the Minister of Renclaret, as he was at his sermon: but the people were so moved at his outragious dealing, especially the women, that they had almost strangled Truchet, and so canvased the rest of his company, that they had no minde to come any more.

[Page 121] Shortly after they took another Minister as he was going to preach in a parish a mile from his house, but the people hearing of it, speedi­ly pursued them, and recovered their Minister again; but when the vil­lains saw that they were like to lose their prey, they so wounded him, that they left him for dead.Treachery.

The Monks of Pignerol sent some Ruffians by night to the Ministers house of S. Germain, who were conducted by a Traitor that knew the house, and formerly had frequented it; this fellow knocking at the door, and the Minister knowing his voice, opened the door, but per­ceiving himself to be betrayed, he fled at a back-door, yet was quickly taken, and sorely wounded, notwithstanding which, they pricked him with halberds to hasten his pace, as they carried him away: they also slew and hurt many others: The Minister, after sore imprisonment,Prodigious vil­lany. en­dured a cruel death with much constancy: at his death the Inquisitors caused two poor women that they kept in prison, to carry faggots to burn him, and to say to him their Pastor, Take this, thou wicked Heretick▪ in recompence of that naughty Doctrine that thou hast taught us: To whom he replied, A [...] good women, I have taught you well, but you have learn­ed ill.

In brief, they so persecuted these poor people, that they forced them to forsake their houses, and to fly into the mountains, loosing all their estates, so that many that had lived well, and relieved others, were now fain to crave relief and succour of others.

The Monks with their Troops of Ruffians continued thus to molest and persecute these poor people, They asked of their Ministers, Whether it were not lawfull for them to defend themselves against such violence? The Ministers answered, that it was, only they advised them to avoid blood-shed as much as might be. This question being resolved, they of Luserne and Angrogne sent some to aid their friends of St. Germain against the Monks.

In June, divers of these Waldenses went out into the country to reap their harvest, and in sundry places were all taken prisoners,A miracle of Mercy. not know­ing of each others calamity, but God so wrought, that miraculously they all escaped out of prison, to the great astonishment of their ad­versaries. At the same time also, others who had been long in pri­son, and longed for nothing but death, through Gods providence, were delivered after a wonderful sort.

In July, they of Angrogne being at their harvest on the hill side of St. Germaine, perceived a company of souldiers that were spoiling the inhabitants of St. Germain; whereupon they made an out-cry, upon which the people of Angrogne ran presently thither-ward, some by the valley, others over the mountain: they which went by the valley being above fifty men, met with the spoilers, who were a hundred and twenty men well appointed, with whom they fought, and gave them a great overthrow; some were hurt, others drowned,A special pro­vidence. and but few hardly escaped; not one of Angrogne being hurt in the fight.

The Monks were so affrighted with this defeat, that they ran away [Page 122] from their Abbey to Pignerol, to save their Reliques and Images, which they carried thither; and if the Ministers would have suffered their people to have attempted it, they might easily have freed their brethren which were imprisoned in the Abbey.Popish subtilty.

After this these Monks, being assisted by a Captain, took many of the inhabitants of the valley of Luserne prisoners, spoiling their goods, driving away their Cattel; and in the end ransomed them for great summs of money.

About this time a Gentleman of Campillan promised his Neighbours that if they would give him thirty Crowns,Popish dissi­mulation and perfidiousness. he would secure them against trouble; but when he had got the money, he caused some soul­diers to come to his house, and in the night sending for the poor men which suspected no danger, he trayterously endeavoured to deliver them into the hands of their mortal enemies: but God, who succours his in their greatest necessity, discovered to one of them the danger they were in, whereby they all fled, and escaped.

Then were strict commands sent through all the Country to banish all the Waldenses, together with the Gospel, out of the mountains and vallies of Piedmount; but the people still desired that they might have leave to serve God purely according to the Rules of the Word.

In the end of October, a rumour was spread abroad, that an Army was raising wholly to destroy them: yea, and such malefactors as were in prisons or banished, were pardoned, upon condition that they should take arms to destroy the Waldenses: Hereupon the Ministers met toge­ther to consult what was to be done in so great an extremity. And first they enjoyed a general and publick Fast to seek unto God for Di­rection,Fasting and Prayer. and in the end concluded that they should not defend them­selves by arms, but that forsaking their houses, and taking their best movables with them, they should retire unto the high mountains, but if their enemies pursued them thither, that then they should take such advise as God should please to give them.

This Counsel all the people submitted to, and for eight days space, were as busie as Ants in summer, to remove their goods and provisi­ons, which though they did in great danger, yet with great courage and alacrity, praising God and singing Psalms, every one cheering up another. But other Ministers hearing of this resolution, wrote to them that they thought it strange that in such an extream necessity, they should not rather resolve to defend themselves against violence, pro­ving that it was lawfull for them so to do, to defend the true Religion, and the lives of themselves, wives and children, knowing thar it was not the Duke, but the Pope that thus stirred him up against them.

During this time, their Adversaries cryed nothing, but To the fire with them, to the fire with them, and presently by proclamations set up every where, Angrogne was exposed to the fire and sword: The Army also approached to their borders, and the people retired into the mountains: But when they saw some horse-men not only spoiling their goods, but taking some of their brethren prisoners, they came [Page 123] back, and set upon them, in which bickering some of the enemies were slain, and the rest retired to their camp; not one of the Waldenses was slain or hurt. But two of these horsemen that fled, galloping away before the rest, when they came neer to the Army, cryed out, They come, they come: Whereupon the whole Army was so astonished,A special pro­vidence. that every man fled away, none pursuing, and the Captain could not all that day get them into order again.

The next day the Army under the Lord of Trinity, was mustered in a meddow, near to Angrogne; They of the Town had sent some to stop the passages that the Army should not enter, and in the mean time they retired into the meddow of Toure, not expecting the Army so soon, so that there were but few that kept the Passages, but when those few perceived their enemies preparing themselves to fight, they all fell down upon their knees, praying earnestly unto God to pity them, and not to look on their sins,Power of Prayer. but on the cause that they main­tained, to turn the hearts of their enemies, and so to worke that there might be no effusion of bloud, but if it were his will to take them, their wives and infants out of this world, that it would please him mercifully to receive them into his Kingdome. Their prayers being ended, they perceived their enemies to come through the Vines to win the top of the mountain: Whereupon the combat began in divers places, and continued untill night: The poor Waldenses being but few, and only armed with slings and cross-bows, were much oppressed by the multitudes of their enemies, so that at last they retired to the top of the mountain, where they defended themselves till night. But having found a place where they might withstand their enemies, they turned again and slew divers of them.

At Even the enemies began to encamp themselves, which the Wal­denses perceiving, they fell to prayer, desiring God to assist and suc­cour them, for which the enemies flouted and laughed them to scorn.Profaneness. The poor people devised to send a Drum into a valley hard by; and as they were at prayer, the Drum beat up in the valley; whereupon the Lord of Trinity caused his souldiers to retreat, which was a great ad­vantage to the Waldenses, who were weary, thirsty,A special pro­vidence▪ and in great pe­rill if God by this meanes had not given them some rest: Of the Wal­denses there were but three slain, but many of their enemies, and more hurt, of whom few recovered.

This combat much encouraged the Waldenses, and as much terrified their enemies, who in their retreat, burnt many houses, and destroyed the Wines that were in the Presse.

Then did the Lord of Trinity encamp in the vally of Luserne, by a Village, the people whereof had alwaies hated the Waldenses, and much rejoyced at this hurt that was now done to them, but they were paid back in their own coyn, being all destroyed by the Army.A just reward.

Then did the Lord of Trinity place four Garisons in four severall Fortresses, so that the poor Waldenses found themselves in a sea of troubles: Whereupon they first betook themselves to prayer,Prayer. then [Page 124] sent to their friends for aid, who sent them all that they could make. Then did the Lord of Trinity send his Army to Villars and Tailleret: The lesser part went towards Villars; the people seeing their enemies approaching, called upon God with fervent prayer, then set upon their enemies, slew some, hurt others, and the rest fled. The other company going towards Tailleret, they of that place were but few in number, yet making their prayers to God, and commending their cause to him, they set valiantly upon their enemies; during which bickering, they of Villars, encouraged by their late success, came to help their friends, and set so lustily upon their enemies, that they put them to flight: but in the pursuit of them they fell into an ambush, and were environed by their enemies, yet, through Gods mercy, they all escaped without the losse of one man;A speciall pro­vidence. on the enemies side there were so many slain, that they were laid together by whole Cart-loads.

Another party of the enemies going to spoil a rich mans house, some of his neighbours, not being above seventy, set upon them, put them to flight, took away their Drum, and recovered their booty from them.

Then did the Lord of Trinity send to them, telling them how much the Duke and his Dutchesse favoured them,Popish subtilty and promised him­selfe to mediate for them that they might live in peace: But whilest by these pretences, he sought to make them secure, he sent part of his Army to get the hill of Tailleret, and another part had already gotten the way that led to the meddow of Tour, whereby the Angrognians might have been easily enclosed; but they perceiving it, immediatly sent some to encounter with their enemies, who gat the victory, pursu­ed them to their camp, and slew very many of them, without the losse of one man.

The Lord of Trinity cunningly excused this attempt, and sent to them to draw up a supplication to the Duke, which was accordingly done, wherein they promised to render all honour and reverence unto God, according to his Word, and all due obedience to the Duk, &c. But in the mean time Trinity grievously vexed them of Tailleret, Perfidiousness, upon pretence that they had not presented themselves to treat of this agree­ment, taking their arms from them, and causing them to ask pardon on their knees.

But presently after news was brought them, that the enemies had gotten to the top of the mountaine, and had taken all the passages, whereat they were sore amazed, and ran with all speed to defend their wives and children: some they saved, but the most of their goods were already in the enemies hands, who at this time did them much mischiefe.

Yet after this, the Lord of Trinity sent word again to them that were fled, that if they would return, he would receive them to mercy: The poor people most of them trusting to his promise, returned, but the next morning the enemies came to apprehend them and their Mi­nisters,Papist trechery [Page 125] besetting the place on every side: Then they that were swift of foot, escaped, all the rest were taken; yet God miraculously de­livered them: for an old man that could not run so fast as the other, was espied by a souldier,A notable story. who ran with a naked sword to have slain him, the old man seeing the iminent danger, caught him by the legs, overthrew him, and drew him by the heels down the hill; the souldier cryed, Help, help, this villain will kill me;A speciall pro­vidence. hereupon his fel­lows ran to his rescue; but in the mean time the old man escaped; and the rest seeing what the old man had done, though they had lost their weapons, yet took heart of grass, and with stones and slings, drave away their enemies, and thereby they all escaped.

The next day the souldiers went again to Tailleret, robbing, spoil­ing, and carrying away all that they could find, but most of the peo­ple were retired towards Villars; Then did the souldiers range all about, and took divers prisoners, whom they used cruelly,Barbarous cru­elty. and one souldier bit off one of their ears, saying, I will carry the flesh of this wicked Heretick with me into my Country: They found also two women, the mother and the daughter, in a cave, whom they wounded to death: and in another cave, an old man of an hundred years old, with his grand-daughter of eighteen years old that fed him; the man they slew, the maid they would have ravished, who flying from them, tumbled down the mountains, and died.

About the same time there was one John Martin that made his boasts every where, that if he could meet with the Minister of Angrogne. he would slit his nose; but shortly after a wolf met him, and setting upon him, bit off his nose, whereupon he ran mad, and died mi­serably.

A certain souldier promised the Lord of Trinity to bring to him the Minister of Tailleret, and accordingly never ceased till he found him,Gods judge­ment on perse­cutors. but as he was pursuing of him, some out of the mountains rescued the Minister, and slew the souldier with stones.

These souldiers were so extream abusive to women, that many Pa­pists that lived by,Uncleannesse. sent their daughters into the mountains to the Wal­denses to preserve their chastity.

Then did the Lord of Trinity promise, that if they would pay him eight thousand Crowns, he would with-draw his Army, and be gone; They being desirous of Peace, sold their Cattel to raise the money,Popish Perfidiousness. but when he had received it, he continued his Army there still.

Then did the Lord of Trinity require them to send away their Mi­nisters till the matter were determined before the Duke, or else by his Army he would force them to it; whereupon by mutual consent they agreed, that the Ministers should with-draw for the present,Their Mini­sters sent away. till the Army was retired, which was not done without great sighs, and lamen­tations and tears. At that time there fell an extraordinary snow, so that the people with great difficulty, were fain to make way for their Ministers to pass. But the Army hearing that the Ministers were gathered together, they sent out a company of harquebushers to ap­prehend [Page 126] them, who came but one hour too late to have taken them: Then did they search every cave, house and chest, to seek them; where­by they robbed the poor people of all their best things. Then did they beset the Ministers house of Angrogne, to whom the Lord of Trinity had promised safety, but it pleased God that he escaped; the souldiers pursued him into the mountains, but could not overtake him; whereupon they plundred his house, burnt his books and writings, and so returned.

The next morning command was given to the Rulers of Angrogne within twenty four hours to deliver up their Minister, or else Angrogne should be put to fire and sword; They answered that they knew not where he was, for the souldiers had driven him over the mountains. Then did the souldiers burn houses, break the mils, spoil the people, and do all the mischief they could, and so departed.

The Lord of Trinity left Garisons in the Fortresses, and caused the poor Waldenses to maintain them, who, not content with their wages, pillaged and robbed all about them; and having taken fourteen men, they bound them, and were leading them away prisoners, but their wives and children pursued them so fiercely with stones,Cruelty. that they were glad to let their prisoners go, and had much ado to save them­selves. Two others that they caught, they hung up by the heels and hands, and having tormented them almost to death, at last released them for a great sum of money. Another Garison in the night went to Tailleret, brake in at the windows and tops of houses, spoiling all, and took also fourteen prisoners, whom they bound two and two together, and were carrying them to the Fortress, but two of them getting loose, so valiantly assaulted the souldiers, and beat them with stones, that they forced them to let go their other prisoners. Yet two others they took, and carried them to the Fort; one was but a child, whom the Captain strangled with his own hands; the other was sixty years old,Barbarous cru­elty. whom they bound, and took a crature that lives in horse-dung, and put into his navel, covering them with a dish, which in a short space did eat into his belly, and killed him.

The Waldenses were in great perplexity, by reason of these Garisons, but especially for the want of their Ministers: whereupon they resol­ved to call them back, yet to have preaching only in private, because they would not imbitter the souldiers, till their messengers returned from the Duke. These messengers were cruelly handled at the Court, and at last sent back with a command that they should entertain Priests to say Mass, &c. When this Report was made to their brethren that sent them, there was wonderfull lamentation, weeping and mourning. Then did they send two of their Ministers to the Church of Pragela, to shew them of the pitifull condition of the Churches in Piedmont, and to ask their advice, how to prevent the danger: and in the next place they all fell to prayer,Prayer in dan­ger. and having long called upon God for counsel and direction in so great a strait; they resolved upon debate, that the people in Piedmont and Dauphine should joyn in a League toge­ther, [Page 127] wherein they promised, through Gods grace and assistance, to maintain the pure preaching of the Gospel, and administring the holy Sacraments, to yeeld obedience to their superior, so farre as they were commanded by the Word of God, and one to be aiding and assisting to the other; that none should conclude any thing touch­ing the estate of Religion,A League. without the consent of the rest of the Vallies.

During this Treaty, all the housholders were required to be present at Masse, and such as would do it, should live in peace, but such as re­fused should be condemned to be burnt, or sent to the Gallies, so that the people were constrained to fly, die, or renounce the Gospel: The first they would have chosen, but could not do it by reason of the great snow; Whereupon they exhorted one another saying, We shall be all called for to morrow, to renounce God, and to return to Idolatry, let us therefore make a solemn protestation, that we will live and die in the confession of Gods holy Word; let us in the morning hear a sermon, and then cast down to the ground, all the Idols and Altars:A good reso­lution. and to this all agreed.

In the morning they put their resolutions into execution, beating down the Images, and casting down the Altars: Then they went to Villars to do the like there; but by the way they encountred with a band of souldiers, who where going to spoil a village,Images demo­lished. and to fetch away the inhabitants prisoners: These souldiers seeing them so ill provided, mocked them, and discharged their guns at them; but they taking courage, with stones beat the souldiers, pursuing them to the Fortresse. Then did they go to Villars, and having destroyed the Idols and Altars there, they returned to besiege the fortresse, demanding the prisoners that were therein.

The Judge, with many Gentlemen, came that day to enroll their names that would go to Masse, but se [...]ing the resolution of the people, they fled into the Castle, where they were besieged for ten daies: Then did the Captain of To [...]r go with a company of souldiers, think­ing to raise the siege; but by those which kept the passages, some of them were slain, the rest were driven back again: Then came they back with three bands, which caused a furious fight, wherein ma­ny of the souldiers were slain and hurt, and not one of the besiegers was hurt.A speciall pro­vidence.

The Waldenses attempted often to have taken the Fortresse; but without Ordinance it was impossible: also the Lord of Trinity was come back with his army, and the next day would have raised the siege: But it pleased God that very night that the souldiers in the Cast­le, desired leave to depart, with bag and baggage, which was easily granted to them: and the souldiers whi [...]h before had so cruelly persecu- the Ministers, were now fain to request them to protect their lives, and to conduct them to a place of safty, which the Ministers did willingly, and the souldiers were very thankfull for it: that night the Fort was razed to the ground.

[Page 128] The next day the Lord of Trinity cunningly sent to them of An­grogne, Popish subtilty. that if they would not aid the other, they should be gently dealt with, but they knowing his fraud, agreed with the rest to de­fend their Religion with their lives, and that no one should make an agreement with out the consent of the rest. Then did the Lord of Tri­nity assay with his Army to enter into the borders of Angrogne by certaine streights, but the people having raised up some breast-works, valiantly defended themselves and offended their enemies. Trinities souldiers being weary, fresh ones were brought in their stead, so that the fight endured untill night, wherein many of the enemies were slain, more hurt, and but two of the Waldenses; and so the battell ceased for the present.

The next day the Army marched towards Angrogne five severall waies, and there were none to resist, but only a few that kept the Watch, who valiantly fought for a space, but seeing themselves in dan­ger to be inclosed, they retreated to an high place, where the combate was renued with greater fiercenesse then before: The Lord of Trinity seeing the losse of many of his men, sounded a retreat, and went to Angrogne, but the people were fled into the medow of Tour; therefore he burned and spoiled all before him: He also oft set fire upon the two Churches, where the word used to be preached,A special pro­vidence. but could not burne them, and so he did to the Ministers house, and yet it remained whole.

Amongst them of Angrogne, there were but two that were enemies to the word of God, and they were both slain that day.

Then did the Lord of Trinity send some to burn Rosa; but the soul­diers were driven back four daies together, by them that kept the pas­sages; whereupon he sent his whole Army, yet they valiantly with­stood them from morning till night; At last a party gat behinde them, over a mountaine, so that the poor people seeing themselves environed, saved themselves by running through the midst of their enemies, and others of them gat into the rocks. The enemies being entred Rosa de­stroyed all with fire and sword: The people fled by secret waies toward Luserne, wandring all night upon the mountains full of snow, laden with their stuff, carrying their infants in their arms, and leading others by the hand with great pain and travell:Gods Provi­dence. They of Luserne seeing them, ran to them, praising God for their deliverance; and they all were very chearfull, notwithstanding their extremities.

Shortly after the Lord of Trinity went to Luserne by three waies; they which kept the passages resisted their enemies valiantly, but when they saw themselves assaulted on every side, they fled into the moun­tains. Then did the souldiers sack and burn the houses, staying all they could finde: When they which were fled to the mountains saw their houses on fire,Joy in tribula­tions. they praised God, and gave him thanks, that thus accounted them worthy to suffer for his Name: Then did the souldiers pursue them to the mountains, but after they had called upon God, a few of them beat back their enemies, whereupon the Army retired.

[Page 129] They in the meddow of Tour, perceiving a company of souldiers burning the rest of the houses in Angrogne, they sent six harque-bushiers against them, who from the higher ground, discharging all their guns together, the souldiers ran all away, when none pursued them.

Shortly after, as the Watch was hearing a Sermon, they spied a company of souldeirs marching up the hill, whereupon they ran to encounter them, and easily discomfited them: But whilest they pur­sued the chase, some cried to them, that another company was entred into the meddow, whereupon they left the chase: or else not one of their enemies had escaped.

Presently other companies came other waies, which the Ministers and people seeing, were much discouraged, and therefore they fell to prayer, and ardently called upon God, with sighs and teares untill night. And whereas seven spies were sent before the souldiers,Prayer in dan­ger. there went out five of the Waldenses against them, and took some, and chased the rest: Then went out eight more against the whole company, and pursued them with an undaunted courage from rock to rock, and from hill to hill, and then went out twelve more, who joining with the other, made a great slaughter of their enemies.

Another company from Luserne, having a Minister with them, as they used alwaies to have; after they had made their prayers to God, set upon another company of souldiers, whose hearts were so taken from them, that they presently fled: One of the Waldenses, a very young man, carried a greate staff in his hand,Speciall pro­vidences. with which he laid so lustily at his enemies, that he brake his staff, and slew many of them, he also brake four of their own swords, in pursuing of them: Also, a boy of eighteen years old, slew the Lord of Monteil, Master of the Camp, which much dismaid the enemies: Another threw down Charles Truchet, and then leaped upon him, and slew him with his own sword; upon which all the rest fled, and were pursued till night hindred.

The Minister seeing the great effusion of bloud, and the enemies fly­ing, cried to the people that it was enough, and so exhorted them to praise God: They that heard him obeyed, and fell to prayer. In this battell they gat much armour, which was a great advantage to them af­terwards. Thanks were returned unto God in every place, every one sa­ying, Who sees not evidently that God fighteth for us. Thanksgiving▪

Presently after, the Lord of Trinity returned to burn the Villages, but especially to pursue the poor people in the mountains. And one com­pany with many horsemen ascended the mountain of Comb by an un­suspected way, where were no Warders; but they which were next, seeing them, called upon God for aid, and though they were but thirty in number, yet they valiantly beat them back twice; many of the enemies were slain, and not one of the Waldenses. Trinity seeing his men thus beaten back, sent out most of his Army to assist them,A speciall pro­vidence. which were about one thousand five hundred men: And there came [Page 130] about a hundred to help the Warders: The combat was very cruel; at last the poor men were fain to retreat with the losse of two of their men; at this the enemies exceedingly rejoyced, blowing their trum­pets and triumphing: but the people crying all together to the Lord, returned again, with greater violence, assaulting them with their slings; So that the enemies being weary, rested themselves, and the while the Waldenses betook themselves to prayer, which more affrighted their ene­mies then any thing else.Prayer.

Then did the souldiers charge again furiously, but by the hands of a few they were driven back; yea little children, fervently calling upon God, threw stones at their enemies, as also did the women: Such as were unfit for war kneeled on the ground with their faces towards heaven, crying,The enemies every where beaten. Lord help us. Then came one running that brought word, that the Angrognians were coming to help them, which the enemies hearing, pre­sently retreated.

Another party of the Army of an hundred and fourty, went ano­ther way; but by seven men they were strongly resisted and driven back: A third party was met by the Angrognians and driven back.

The Lord of Trinity intending to be revenged upon them in the med­dow of Tour, assembled all the Gentlemen of the country, and an Army of about seven thousand: and when the poor people saw them coming, glittering in their harnesse, and so many in number, they were at first astonished, but pouring out their prayers unto God to succour them,Prayer in dan­ger. and to have regard to the glory of his Name, &c. They marched to encounter with their enemies, and seasonably by the way, they met with some aid that was coming to them from Luserne, so that uniting themselves, they soon discomfited their enemies.

The Captain of the enemies had in the morning promised to do great matters that day, but in the evening he was carried back, weak and wounded, and not like to live: Whereupon a Papist said to him, Mon­sieur, there religion is beter then ours.

Another part of the Army set upon an house in a passe, wherein were but five men, yet they lustily defended it, drave out their enemies that had entred, and kept the place, till some of their friends came to relieve them.

Another half of the Army, assaulted another Bulwork on the side of the mountaine; And they within suffered them to come very near, but then with slings and guns, they slew many of them, others rouled down great stones, which killed divers, so that when they had attempted all waies to take it, they were forced to retire; the Lord of Trinity weeping to see his men slain so fast, and at last, having lost very many of his men, he was forced to retreate; many of the Army crying out, God fight­eth for them, and we do them wrong.

In all that conflict there were but two of the Waldenses slain, and two hurt;A speciall pro­vidence. whereas they never shot at their enemies but they killed some, and sometimes two at one shot: The souldiers confessed that they [Page 131] were so astonished that they could not fight: Others said, that the Ministers by their prayers, conjured and bewitched them. It was a wonderfull work of God, that shepherds and cowherds should en­counter with so mighty a power of strong and brave souldiers▪ well furnished with ammunition, and themselves having nothing but slings, stones, and a few harquebushes, and yet should beat them, and in all those fights, they lost not above fourteen men.

Shortly after a company of souldiers went to Angrogne to destroy the Vines, &c. and mocking the Waldenses, they said,Scorners puni­shed. that they were valiant men behinde their bulworks, but if they came into the plain, how they would beat them: Then came thirty of the Waldenses, and set upon them in the plain, and fought with them a long time, hand to hand, slew many of them, and at last forced them to run away, and that with the losse of one only man of their own.

The night after, some thought that it would have been an easie mat­ter to take the Lord of Trinity, and to have spoiled his whole Army, but the Waldenses would not do it, least they should offend God, and passe the bounds of their vocation, intending only to defend them­selves.

Then did Trinity betake himself to his old shifts of entertaining a treaty for agreement; but in the Interim, Subtilty. Per [...]idiousnesse. he sent a company of Spani­ards one way, and other companies other waies, to surprise the meddow of Tour. The Spaniards were entred the meddow, before they were perceived: but when the people spied them,The Spaniards [...]epulsed. they betook themselves to prayer, then winded their horns, and so prepared for resistance: The first that opposed themselves were but twelve men, who yet stop­ed them in a Passe, and others rolled down stones from the mountains upon them, whereby many of the Spaniards were slain, the rest were forced to retreat.

Shortly after the Ministers and chief Rulers of the Waldenses, re­quested the Lord of Raconis to deliver a petition, which they had drawn up to the Dutches of Savoy, wherein they declared the equity of their cause, protesting all due obedience, &c. ▪ and at last, through Gods mercy, they came to a good agreement, and according to the promise of God, all things turned to the best to those that feared him, that were called according to his purpose.

After the death of the Duke and Dutchesse of Savoy, Charles Em­manuel their son succeeded,Peace obtained who maintained them in peace according to the treaty formerly made: Yet the Inquisitors were alwaies watch­full to apprehend one or other of them: and amongst others, one Bartholmew Copin of Luserne, being at Ast in Piedmont, with his Merchandize, and at evening supping with some other company,Bar. Copin one began to speak much to the disgrace of the Waldenses for their Religion. Copin thought that he was bound not to be silent when he heard such blasphemies: Whereupon he began to argue in their defence. Are you then a Waldensian, said the other to him? he answered, Yea. Zeal. And do you not beleeve that God is in the Host? No, said Copin ▪ [Page 132] Fie upon you, said the other, what a false Religion is yours? My Religion, said Copin, is as true, as it's true that God is God, &c. The next morning Copin was called before the Bishop of Ast, who told him, that he must either recant the opinions he held over night, or be punished: Copin said, he had been provoked to that discourse; yet he said nothing but what he would maintaine with his life: Adding that he had some goods, and a wife and children, yet he had lost the affe­ctions that he bare unto those things,Christ best of all. neither were they dear to him, to the prejudice of his conscience. Yet said, that behaving himself ho­nestly, he ought not to be molested▪ when he came about his merchandize, the Turks and Jews being permit [...]ed to come to Fairs without molestation. Notwithstanding which the Bishop presently sent him to prison. The next day the Bishops Secretary went to him, professing great love, and telling him, that except he acknowledged his fault, he was in great danger of his life: Copin answered, That his life was in the hands of God, and he desired not to preserve it to the prejudice of his glory; and having but a few paces to walk in his journey to heaven, his hearty prayer to God was, to give him grace not to turn back.

Some few daies after he was examined by an Inquisitor in the pre­sence of the Bishop, who exceedingly tormented him with sweet and gentle perswasions,Tentation. by fair words seeking to draw him to an abjurati­on: But Copin alwaies convinced him by the word of God: alleadging that if he should be ashamed of,Constancy. or deny Christ before men, Christ would be ashamed of, and deny him before his heavenly Father. Then said the Monk, Go thy waies thou cursed Heretick to all the devils in hell, and when thou shalt be there tormented by them, thou wilt remember this good and holy counsel that we have given thee, &c.

After many violent encounters, they caused his wife and son to come to him, promising if he would confesse his fault, he should have liber­ty to depart with them; They suffered them also to sup together, which time he spent in exhorting them to patience,His exhortati­on to his wife and children telling them that God would be more then a husband and father to them: for his own part he was not bounde to love wife or childe more then Christ; and that they should esteem it their happiness, that God was pleased to do him the honour to be a witnesse to his truth, with the losse of his life, &c. He enjoyned his wife to bring up his children in the fear of God: his son he commanded to obey his mother, he desired them to pray for him, that God would strengthen him against all tentations, and so taking leave of his wife, and blessing his son, he dismissed them, his wife and son shedding fountains of tears, and crying out in so lamentable a man­ner as would have moved the hardest hart to compassion.

The Bishop knew not well what to do with him: If he let him go, he feared a scandall, and that many would be encouraged by his im­punity: If he punished him, he offended against the agreement be­twixt the Duke and the Waldenses. And thereupon he sent his indict­ment to the Pope, to know his pleasure. Shortly after Copin was found dead in prison,Copin mur­thered it appearing manifestly that he was strangled: [Page 133] and after his death, he was condemned to be burnt, which was accord­ingly executed.

CHAP. XXII. The Persecution, of the VValdenses in Ca­labria.

ANno Christi 1370. The Waldenses of Pragela and Dauphine grew so numerous, that they sent their younger people to seek some other country to inhabit. In their travell, they found in Calabria, some wast and untilled lands: yet seeming very fertil,Gods provi­dence. fit for corn wine, oyl and chestnuts, and that the hils were fit for cattel, and to fur­nish them with fuell and timber; they came therefore to the Lords of those places to treate with them touching their abode there.

The Lords received them lovingly, agreed to orders much for the advantage of these new inhabitants; agreed about rents, tenths, tolls, penalties, &c. and so assigned to them certain parts of the Countrey. Then did they return to their parents, shewing how it fared with them, and so receive what they pleased to bestow upon them, and many of them marrying, they returned into Calabria, where they built some Towns and Cities, as St Xist, la Garde, &c.

The Lords of those Countries thought themselves happy in that they had met with such good subjects as peopled their waste lands,Their holy lives. and made them to abound with all manner of fruits; but principally be­cause they were honest men, and of good conscience, yeelding all those duties and honours which they could expect from good subjects. Only the Priests complained of them, that they lived not after their religion, made not their children Priests and Nuns; loved not Tapers, Masses, &c. that they adorned not their Churches with Images, went not on Pilgrimage, &c.

Hereupon the Lords feared, that if the Pope should take notice, that so near his Seat, there were people that contemned his Laws, they might chance to lose their subiects: They therefore perswaded the Priest to be silent, since in other things they shewed themselves ho­nest men, inriched the Country, yea and the Priests themselves, by their Tithes. These Lords also stopped the mouths of their neigh­bours, who exceedingly murmured, because by no means they could draw them into alliance with them, and because all that they had,Their godly conversation▪ prospered exceedingly: They were wise and temperate, not given to drinking, dancing, swearing, &c. and living in a Country, where the inhabitants were given to all manner of wickednesse, they were as pre­cious stones in a common sink.

Thus they were preserved in peace by their Lords, till Anno 1560. [Page 134] At which time these Waldenses resolving to make a publick profession of their Religion; sent for two Ministers from Geneva, who did much establish the exercise of Religion amongst them.

The Pope per­secutes them.Pope Pius the fourth hearing of this, presently concluded their utter ruine and extirpation, giving the same in charge to Cardinal Alexandrino, a violent man, who chose two Monks Inquisitors of his own humour, and sent them, first to begin with the inhabitants of St. Xist; There they assembled the people, gave them good words, promising that they should receive no violence, if they would accept of such Teachers as the Bishops should appoint, which if they refus­ed, they would lose their lives, goods and honors, and would be con­demned for Hereticks: And further to prove them, they appointed a Mass to be sung: but the people with their wives and children, pre­sently quit their houses, and fled into the woods.

From thence the Monks went to la Garde, where they caused the Town-gates to be locked, and the people to be assembled, telling them that they of St. Xist had adjured their Religion,Popish lies. and went to Mass, &c. promising that if they would do the like, no man should injure them. These poor people, believing what was told them, were content to do what they would have them; but when they heard that their friends of St. Xist refused to go to Mass,Humane frailty and were fled into the woods, they were exceedingly grieved at their own revolt, and re­solved with their wives and children, to go to their brethren.

In the meane time the Monks sent two companies of souldiers after them of St. Xist, Popish cruelty. who ran after them as after wilde beasts, crying, kill, kill, and so slew divers: but such as could get to the top of the moun­tain, called to the souldiers, beseeched them to have pity on them, their wives and children, telling them that they had been inoffensive in their conversations, &c. yet if they would not suffer them to continue in their habitations, that at least they would license them to depart, either by sea or land, that they might retire themselves whether the Lord should be pleased to conduct them, beseeching them also, for Gods sake, not to force them to defend themselves-

But this more enraged the souldiers, who presently violently assaul­ted them: Then did they so defend themselves, that by Gods assi­stance,A speciall pro­vidence. they slew the greatest part of the souldiers, and put the rest to flight. Hereupon the Inquisitors wrote to the Viceroy of Naples, speedily to send some Companies of souldiers to apprehend the Hereticks of St. Xist and la Garde, whereby he should do a work very pleasing to the Pope, and meritorious for himself.

Then did the Viceroy come himself with his Troops, in the mean time the Waldensian women came home to seek for food for their hus­bands and children that were in the woods-

The Viceroy proclaimed through all Naples, that all such banished persons as would come to fight against the Hereticks of St. Xist, should be pardoned all their offences: Whereupon great numbers resorted to him, and were conducted to the woods, where they chased these [Page 135] poor people, slaying some, wounding others, the rest fled into caves,Barbarous cru­elty. where most of them died of famine.

Then were they of la Garde cited before the Inquisitor, and many fair Promises were made unto them if they would appeare; but con­trary thereunto, thirty of them were apprehended, and put to the rack.

One Charlin was racked with such violence, that his bowels brake out of his belly, and all to extort from him a confession, that in the night, the candles being put out, they committed whoredome, and abominable incest, yet would he never confesse any such wick­ednesse.

Another with extreame pain upon the rack, promised to go to Masse, the Inquisitor seeing that he had shewed such weaknesse,Prodigious wickednesse. urged him to confesse the forementioned wickednesse, which, because he refused, he left him eight hours together upon the rack, yet could he not get from his mouth so foul a slander.

Another was stripped stark naked, whipt with rods of iron, drawn through the streets, and burnt with firebrands: One of his sons was killed with knives: Another thrown down from an high Tower, be­cause he would not kisse a Crucifix: Another was condemned to be burnt alive, and as he went to the fire, he threw to the ground a Crucifix, which the executioner had fastened to his hands,Zeal. where­upon they covered him all over with pitch, and so burnt him.

The Inquisitor Panza cut the throats of eighty,Horrible cru­elties. as butchers do their sheep's; then causing them to be divided into four quarters, he set up stakes for the space of thirty miles, and appointed a quarter to be fast­ned to every stake. Four of the principall men of la Gard he caused to be hanged. Another young man, because he would not confesse himself to a Priest, was thrown from an high tower.

The Vice-roy passing by before he was dead, and hearing him implore Gods mercy, kickt him on the head, saying, Is this dog yet living? take him and cast him to the hogs. Sixtly women were racked so violently, that the cords pierced into their arms and legs, and being then cast into prison, they died there, only nine of the handsomest be­ing delievered to the fathers of the Inquisition, were never heard off after.

Many others were delivered to the secular power to be burnt,Their totall extirpation. and if any interceded for them, he was presently put on the rack as a favourer of Hereticks.

Pope Pius the fourth sent the Marquesse of Butiane, promising that if he would wholly cleare Calabria of these Waldenses, he would make his son a Cardinall: But he was put to no great pains to do it, for the In­quisitors and the Vice-roy of Naples had by sundry deaths killed all the men, women and children that they could light of.

One of their Ministers was famished in prison: Another was carri­ed to Rome, where he was condemned to be burnt; The Pope and his Cardinals would needs see that pleasing spectacle: But the Minister [Page 136] spake so many things out of Gods Word, against the Pope, that the Pope gnashed his teeth for anger, wishing that he had been some where else. And thus were these godly people wholly rooted out of Calabria.

CHAP. XXIII. The Persecutions of the Waldenses in Pro­vence.

THese came from Piedmont, when their vallies were over-peopled. The country of Provence, at their first arrival, was a de­sert, but within few years, by Gods blessing upon their labours, it-abounded with Corn, Wine, Oil, Chesnuts, and other fruites.

There Habitations being near to Avignion (many times the Popes seat) they were exposed to sundry persecutions, as Anno 1380. and at other times: but the greatest of all began about the year 1360. in the time of King Lewis the twelfth; who being informed that in Provence was a certain kind of people that lived not according to the Laws of the Church of Rome, but were an accursed people, committing all kindes of wickednesse and villanies:Devilish slan­ders. He gave Commission to his Par­liament in Provence to take cognizance of it, and to punish them accord­ing to their demerits.

The Court prosecuting this order with rigour; and the King hearing that diverse innocent persons were put to death, he sent his Master of Requests, and Confessor into Provence, to finde out what kinde of per­sons these were, who at their return, certified him that all the former suggestions were untrue, that they were neither Socerers, nor Whore­mongers, but lived honestly, did hurt to none; caused their children, to be Baptized, taught them their Belief, and the ten Commandments and that they carefully kept the Lords day, and had the Word of God purely expounded to them: Whereupon the King swore an oath, That they were honester then himself, and his Catholik subjects. Upon this in­formation he sent and sta [...]ed the Persecution.Note.

Then did the Waldenses send two of their Ministers [George Morrell and Peter Masson] to Oecolampadius, Capito, B [...]cer and Haller, to confer with them about matters of Religion, and to have there advice in many things.

In their return, Masson was apprehended at Dijon; where he was condemned and put to death for a Lutheran. P. Masson mar­tyred. Morrell escaped with his Letters and Papers, and came safe to Provence, where he much com­forted and confirmed the Churches. Yet all this while did the Parlia­ment of Aix apprehend one or other of them, condemning some to the fire, others to the gibbet; they which scaped best, returned with marks in their forheads.

[Page 137] Anno Christi 1540. The inhabitants of Merindoll were summoned, and some of the chief appearing for the rest, they were all con­demned to be burned alive, their children and families to be out­lawed, and that the place of their habitation should be laid waste,A cruel decree. the woods cut down two hundred paces round about, and so left desolate.

The King being informed of the rigour of this Edict,K. Francis the first. and of the in­nocency of the people, countermanded the execution of it: but his Letters were suppressed, and the Cardinall of Tournon obtained for a great some of money, the revocation of them.

Anno 1545. The President of Opede proclaimed war against them both at Aix and Marseilles: Divers companies of souldiers were listed,Called Mi [...]irs and five bands of the old souldiers of Piedmont were joyned with them, and presently they began to set fire on the Villages of Cabrieres, Pepin, &c. The poor people without any resistance were slain, women and their daughters ravished, some great with child murthered;Barbarous cru­elty. the breasts of many women were cut off, after whose death their poor infants di­ed of famine.

Opede also proclaimed, that on pain of death no man should give any relief or sustenance to them. All their habitations were pillaged, sacked and burnt, and none of their persons spared, but such as were re­served for the Gallies.

Opede comming to Merindol, found none there but one simple lad, who had yielded himselfe prisoner to a souldier, and promised two Crowns for his ransom; but Opede paid the money to the souldier, and caused the lad to be shot to death; then he utterly razed the Town, and laid it levell with the ground.

Then did he march against Cabrieres, and with the Cannon battered the wals: There was within only about sixty poor sick Pesants, who sent him word that he needed not to spend powder to batter the wals, for they were ready to open the gates, and quit the Country, if they might but have leave with their wives and children to go to Geneva, or Germany ▪ and to leave all their goods behinde them▪

Opede entring the Town,Prodigious cruelty. caused all the men to be brought into a field, and to be cut in pieces, the souldiers striving who should shew the best manhood in cutting off heads, arms and legs: The women he caus­ed to be locked in a barn with much straw, and so put fire to it, where many women great with childe were burnt: One souldier moved with pity, opening a hole in the wall, that some of them might come out; but Opede made them to be beaten back againe into the fire with Pikes and Halberts. Some of them that came forth he slew with his own hands, ripping open their bellies, so that their children came forth, whom he trod under his feet: many were fled into cellers and caves, whom he caused to be dragged out, had into the field, stripped stark naked, and then slain. Others were bound by two and two together, and slain by the Captains, who rejoyced in their bloudy butchery.

Then did this Tyrant (worse then Herod) command one of his [Page 138] Captaines to go into Church, into which many women, children and infants were fled; and to kill them all, which the Captain at first refused, saying, that it was a cruelty unbeseeming men of warre: Whereat Miniers being displeased, charged him upon pain of rebelli­on against the King to do it. The Captain fearing what might be the issue, entred with his souldiers and destroyed them all, sparing neither young nor old. Other souldiers that ransacked the houses, found ma­ny poor persons who had hid themselves in secret places, whom they flew upon, crying, Kill, kill, the souldiers without the Town killed all they could meet with, so that above a thousand men, women and chil­dren were slain in this place.

Many persons which were escaped into the mountains, sent by some that had most interest in Miniers, to desire him to give them leave to go whither the Lord should please to leade them, with their wives and children, though they had nothing but the shirts on their backs: to whom he answered, tha [...] he knew what he had to do, he would send them to dwell in hell amongst the devils.

A bloody speech.Then did he send part of his Army unto Costa, which they over­came, and committed there great slaughter: Many of the inhabitants fled into an Orchard, where the souldiers ravished many women and maidens, and having kept them there a day and a night, they used them so beastly, that the women with childe, and younger maidens died presently after.

Many of these Merindolians hid themselves in rocks and dark caves, where some were famished, others were choaked with fire and smoak set to their caves mouths. Many more were the outrages and cruelties which this wicked Opede committed: but the Lord found him out at last,Gods judge­ment on perse­cutors. striking him with a strang kinde of bleeding at the lower parts, neither was he able to void any urine, so that by degrees his guts rot­ted within him: No remedy could be found for this terrible disease, worms bred in his bowels, which continually gnawed him. Then did he send to Arles for a famous Chyrurgion, who cured him of his difficulty to make water, after which, desiring all to depart the room, the chyrurgion in private exhorted him to repent of his former cruelty and bloud-shed, telling him that this his strange bleeding was Gods just hand upon him for shedding so much innocent bloud: But these words pierced the impure conscience of this wicked wretch, and more trou­bled him then the torments of his disease, so that he cryed out to lay hands on the Chirurgion as an Heretick: Whereupon he conveyed himself away, and returned to Arles.

Miniers his horrible death.Yet not long after he was sent for again, and great promises were made for his security: But when he came back, he found Miniers past cure, raging and casting out most horrible & blasphemous words, feel­ing a fire within him which burnt him from the navel upwards, which was accompanied with extream stink of his lower parts, and so he end­ed his wretched life.

In the beginning of this Persecution, there was one John de Rom [...], a [Page 139] Monk, who gat a Commission to examine those whom he suspected to be Hereticks; whereupon he afflicted the faithfull with all kindes of cru­elty: Amongst other horrible torments that he used, this was one; he filled boots with boiling grease, and put them upon their legs, tying them backwards over a form, and their legs hanging down over a soft fire: Thus he tormented very many, and in the end most cruelly put them to death.

Francis the French King being informed of the hellish cruelty of this wicked Monk, sent to his Parliament at Provence that they should ap­prehend and condemn him: but he being informed of it, fled to Avig­nion, where he hoped to enjoy all that wealth which so mercilesly and unjustly he had extorted from the poor Christians: But shortly after he was robbed of all that he had, by his own servants; and then he fell sick of a most horrible and strange disease unknown to the Physi­tians: He was intollerably tormented with pains all over his body, so that no means could give him ease for one minute of an hour;Gods judge­ment on perse­cutors. neither was their any man that could tarry near him, no not of his nearest friends; so great was the stink that came from him: Then was he re­moved to an Hospital: but the stink and infection so encreased, that no man durst come near him no; nor he himself was able to abide the horrible stink of his own body, full of ulcers and sores, and smarwing with vermine, and so rotten, that the flesh fell from the bones by piece-meal. In these torments he often cried out in great rage. O who will deliver me? VVho will kill and rid me out of these intollerable paines, which I know I suffer for the oppressions which I did to the poor men? Oft-times he himself endeavoured to destroy himself; but he had not the power. In this horrible anguish, and fearful despair he miserably ended his ac­cursed life.

When he was dead no man would come near to bury him; till at last a young novice caught hold of his stinking carcase with an iron hook, and so dragged him into an hole that was made for him.

In the time of this Persecution the Bishop of Aix, with some other Bishops and their courtizans, walking along the streets of Avignion, Popish un­cleannesse. saw a man selling baudy Images and Pictures, with filthy rimes and ballades annexed to them: All these goodly Pictures the Bishops bought up. When they had gon a little further, there was a Book-seller that had set to sale certain Bibles in French ▪ which the Prelates were greatly moved at, saying to him, Dar'st thou be so bold as to sell such merchandise in this Town? The Book-seller replied, Is not the holy Bi­ble as good as these goodly Pictures that you have bought for these gentle-women? Then said the Bishop of Aix, I renounce my part in Paradise, if this fellow be not a Lutheran, take him away to prison.Profanenesse. Then did his attendants cry out, A Lutheran, a Lutheran, To the fire with him, to the fire with him; and one gave him a blow with his fist, ano­ther pulled him by the hair, another by the beard,A godly Book-seller burnt. so that the poor man was all imbrued in bloud, before he came to prison. The next day he was brought before the Judge, where, by the instigation of [Page 140] the Bishops, he was condemned to be burned the same day, and so was carried to the fire with two Bibles about his neck, one before, and another behinde, where he made a most Christian end.

The Waldenses were dispersed also into several other Countries, as Bohemia, Austria▪ Germany, Flanders, England, Poland, Italy, Spain, Dalmatia, Croatia, Sclavonia, Grecia, Philadelphia, Livonia, Sarmatia, Bulgaria, &c. In all which places at one time or other they suffered per­secutions; concerning which there is not much left upon Record, and something will be spoken again of it in other places of this book, and therefore this may suffice for the present.

CHAP. XXIV. The Persecution of the Albingenses.

THese were the same with the Waldenses, differing only in name from their habitation in the Country of Albi. Divers of Waldo's disciples going into this Country, and amongst them one Arnold (from whom they were called Arnoldists) laboured with so good successe, that in a short time there was scarce any found that would go to Masse.

Pope Alexander the third was much moved to anger, when he saw many great Provinces to shake off his Antichristan yoak, and there­fore he condemned them for Hereticks in the Councel of Lateran: Yet did they so multiply, that Anno 1200. they possessed many and great Cities; yea, they had many great Lords that took part with them, as Earl Remund of Tholouse, Remund Earl of Foix, the Vicount of Bezieres, &c. Pope Innocent the third pretended a great desire to re­claime them by preaching and conference; and thereupon there was a famous Disputation at Montreall, wherein the Popish Doctors were shamefully baffled by Arnold: But the Popes pollicy was thus to rock them asleep whilest he raised Armies against them to destroy them:Popish subtlity The pretended occasion whereof was this; There was one Frier Peter that was slain in the dominions of the Earl of Tholouse; whereupon the Pope sent preachers abroad through all Europe to assemble men to­gether to take vengeance on the Hereticks, for the innocent bloud of Friar Peter, slain amongst them; promising Paradise to all that would come to this warre, and bear arms for fourty daies. This he called the holy warre, and gave the same Pardons and Indulgences to those that came to this war, as to those which went into the Holy land against the Saracens.

Then did he thunder against Earl Remund, charging all Arch-bishops and Bishops through their Diocesse to pronounce him accursed and excommunicated,Popes rage a­gainst Earl Remund. and that with the sound of a Bell, and extinction of Candles every Sabbath and festivall day, for murthering of a good servant of God▪ He also absolved all his subjects from their oaths of [Page 141] allegiance to him; commanding every good Catholike to pursue his person, and to take and possesse his land, &c. He also wrote to all Chri­stian Princes to stirre them up to get this pardon, rather by fighting against these Albingenses, then by going against the Turks. Earl Re­mund hearing of all these preparations against him, sent to the Pope, humbly beseeching him not to condemn him before he was heard, assuring him that he was no way guilty of the death of Frier Peter, but that he was slain by a Gentleman, who immediatly fled out of his Country, otherwise he would have severely punished him for it. But all was in vain, for presently came Armies of crossed souldiers to pour down their vengeance on him and his lands.

Amongst these were many noble men, and Ecclesiasticall persons, Arch-bishops, Bishops, Abbots, &c. to all which the Pope promised Paradise, but gave them not a peny.

The Earl of Tholouse perceived that he must either prepare for de­fence, or submit; the latter he thought the safer, and therefore he went presently to the Popes Legate at Valance; to whom he began to say,He goes to the Popes Legate. that he thought it strange that so many armed men should be brought against him, who used no other arms for his defence but his own inno­cency: And that concerning the death of the Frier, they should first have enquired the truth of the fact, before they thus moved heaven and earth against him; yea, if he had been guilty, yet there was an ordinary course of justice to be used against him, and not to wreak their anger on his innocent Subjects: and therefore Sir (said he) since I come voluntarily to you, armed only with the testimony of a good conscience, what further use is there of these armed Pilgrims? pray you therefore counte [...]mand these souldiers before they go to make any fur­ther spoil in my territories: for my own person may serve for a sufficient pledge, &c.

The Legate answered, that he had done well in coming to him, yet could he not send back the souldiers, except he would put seven of his best castles into his hands, which should serve for a hostage; Now did the Earl when it was too late see his own folly in putting himself into the Legates hands, and thereby making himself a prisoner, but there was no remedy, now he must take Laws from him that had him in his power, and therefore be told him that both his person and pos­sessions were at his disposall, beseeching him that his Subjects might receive no more damage by the Souldiers.

The Legate presently sent to put Garisons in those seven Castles, commanding all the Consuls of every City presently to appear before him: and when they were come, he told them that Earl Remund had delivered up his Castles to the Pope, and therefore they were to take notice of it, that so they might acknowledge themselves lawfull Sub­jects to his Holinesse, in case the Earl should falsifie his Oath to the Pope.

The Consuls were much astonished thus to see their Lord devested of all his possessions: but that which most afflicted them was, to see him [Page 142] led to S. Giles to be reconciled to the Church, where the Legate com­manded the Earl to strip himself stark naked all but his linnen draw­ers:The Earl whipt naked. then did he put a cord about his neck, whereby he led him nine times about the grave of Frier Peter, scourging him with rods all the while: The Earl demanded satisfaction for so sharp a penance seeing he was not guilty of the fact: the Legate answered, that he must submit if he would be reconciled to the Pope, yea, he must be thus scourged before the Earls, Barons, Marquesses, Prelates, and all the people: he made him also to swear to be obedient all his life to the Pope and Church of Rome: and to make irreconcileable warre against the Albingen­ses, &c,

Then did the Legate make him General of the crossed Souldiers for the seige of Beziers: The Earl knew not what to do: For to conduct an Army to fight against the Albingenses, was to sin against his conscience, and if he should fly away, it would furnis [...] them with new matter of persecution against him and his subjects.

In this extremity he stayed in the Army a few daies, and then went towards Rome to reconcile himself to the Pope.

Then did the Army come before the City of Beziers, and provided all manner of Engines for battery,Beziers besie­ged. reared up ladders for a general Es­calado: this the Earl of Beziers beholding, and judging it impossible to defend the City, he went out: and cast himself down at the Legates feet, beseeching him not to punish the innocent with the nocent, which must needs be, if the Town were taken by storm: he told him, that there were in the City great numbers of good Catholicks, which would be subject to the same ruine with the Albingenses: he desired him also to commiserate him now in his minority that was a most obedient servant to the Pope, and had been brought up in the Romish Church, in which he would live and die: The Legate told him that all his ex­cuses prevailed nothing, and that he must do as he may: The Earl re­turned into the City, assembled the people, and told them that he could obtain no mercy from the Legat, except all the Albingenses would come and abjure their religion, and promise to live according to the Laws of the Church of Rome: The Popish party requested the Albin­genses to yield to this, but the Albingenses answered, that they would not forsake their religion for the base price of their frail life: that God was able, if he pleased, to defend them, but if he would be glorified by the confession of their faith▪ Faith and cou­rage. it should be a great honour to them to die for his sake: that they had rather displease the Pope, who could but kill their bodies, then God, who could cast both body and soul in­to hell, &c.

Then did the Popish party send their Bishop to the Legate, beseech­ing him not to include them in the chastisement of the Albingenses: and that the best way to win the others was by gentle means, not by rigour: the Legate grew into great choler at this, swearing that if all the City di [...] not acknowledg their fault, they should all taste of one cup without distinction of religion, sex or age: and accordingly he summoned the [Page 143] City presently to yield to his discretion, which they refusing, he caused that his Engines should play, and that a generall assault should be given.

It was impossible for them within the City to resist so great violence,Beziers storm­ed. being assaulted by above an hundred thousand Pilgrims: so that the e­nemies entred, and slew a great multitude, and set the City on fire,Barbarous cru­elty. and burnt it to ashes: When the City was first taken, the Priests and Monks came forth of the great Church with Banners and Crosses, singing, Te Deum laudamus; but the Souldiers, who were commanded by the Le­gate to kill all, ran upon them, made their heads and arms to fly about the streets, so that they were all cut in pieces.

In this City of Beziers they slew sixty thousand persons, the Popes Legate saying to the Captains and souldiers, Caedite eos omnes, novit enim Dominus qui sunt ejus, Kill them all] Catholicks and Hereticks] for the Lord knoweth who are his.

Then were these Pilgrims presently conducted to Carcasson before the fourty daies of service, which they had vowed to the Church of Rome, were expired.

The Earl of Beziers when he saw that he could obtain no favour of the Legate, before the City was taken, left his charge to the Bishop, and went to Carcasson, endeavouring to prepare and furnish it for a long siege: but the Legates Army followed him presently, unto which there came a new supply of crossed souldiers out of sundry Countries, so that his Army now consisted of three hundred thousand fighting men.

Near to the City of Carcasson was a Town of the same name: the City was seated on an hill, and fenced with a double wall; yet the Pil­grims thought to take it at the first sight,Carcasson be­sieged. and therefore ran with great violence upon the first Rampier, filling the ditch with fagots, but they were beaten back with such courage, that the ground was covered with their dead bodies: The young Earl of Beziers won much honor in this first encounter, encouraging his men, and telling them, that it was bet­ter to die fighting, then to fal into the hands of such cruel and merciless enemies, &c. The Albingenses much encouraged hereby, swore to him that they would spend their lives for the preservation of the City.

The next morning the Legate commanded a general assault to be made upon the Town of Carcasson which was two miles from the City: & The people valiantly defended themselves, but being oppressed with multitudes, the souldiers entred the Town,Popish cruelty. putting all to the sword and fire, as they had done at Beziers.

Then came the King of Arragon to the Camp, and told the Legate that he understood that his kinsman the Earl of Beziers was in the City, and that with his leave, he would go to him, not doubting but that he should prevail with him to do his duty to the Pope and Church: The Legate gave him leave, and the King approaching to the Rampier, cal­led for the Earl, who came to him: then said the King, that he desired [Page 144] to know of him what moved him to shut up himself in that City a­gainst so great an Army of Pilgrims? the Earl answered, that it was to defend his life, goods and Subjects: that he knew well that the Pope, under the pretence of religion, resolved to destroy his Uncle Remund, and himselfe: that he saw the cruelty which they had used at Beziers even against the Priests themselves: adding also what they had done to the Town of Carcasson, and that they must look for no mercy from the Legate or his Army: and that therefore he rather chose to die, de­fending himself with his subjects, then to fall into the hands of so in­exorable an enemy as the Legate was: that though he had in his City some that were of another religion, yet they were such as had wrong­ed none, and were come to his succour in his greatest extremity, and for their good service he was resolved not to abandon them, and that his trust was in God the defender of the oppressed, that he would as­sist them against that world of ill advised men,A brave speech who forsook their own houses to burn, sack, and ransack, and kill in their houses other men without reason, judgement, or mercy.

The King returning to the Legate, told him, that his cozen was much discontented with his former dealings against his Subjects of Be­ziers & Carcasson, that he believed, seeing they spared not the Romish Priests, their war was not for Religion, but a kinde of theevery: that he would not yield himselfe to the descretion of such mercilesse men, &c.

The Legate, after some debate, told the King, that for his sake he would receive the Earl of Beziers to mercy,Popish cruelty, and unlean­nesse. and that with him, twelve more might come out with bag and baggage, but for the rest he would have them wholly at his discretion, and that they should all come forth stark naked, men, women, maids, and children, without shirts, smocks, or other covering, and that then they might hope well of his mercy, he being the Popes Legate, &c.

The King much distasted this propositions, yet reported it to the Earl of Beziers, Carcasson stor­med. who returned answer, that he would not come forth upon such unreasonable and unjust propositions, but would defend himself and his Subjects, as God should enable him.

Then did the Legate cause all his Engines to play, commanding, that they should take the City by storm,The Pilgrims repulsed with great losse. but he was little pleased when he saw the losse of a great number of his Pilgrims: for they in the City threw down stones, fire, pitch, brimstone, and boiling water, where­with they so galled the assailants, that the earth [...] [...]s covered, and the ditches filled with their deads bodies, which [...] a wondrous noy­som stink both in the City an Camp.

This overthrow caused divers of the crossed souldiers, having ac­complished their fourty daies service, and thereby gained Paradise, to refuse to conquer more after so faire a purchase, and therefore they returned home.

The Legate being much troubled to see his Army so decreased, thought of this Stratagem, he sent for a gentleman, telling him that he might do a piece of service, whereby he might not only merit heaven, [Page 145] but gain a great reward here: which was by going to the Earl of Be­zires, endeavouring to put him into great fears, and then to perswade him to have recourse to the Legates mercy, and withall that he should perswade him with great Oaths and Execrations (whereof he could absolve him at his pleasure) to come with him to the Legate,Popish Pro­faanenesse and perfidiousness. with as­surance that he should be dismissed safe and sound.

This Gentleman plaied his part so well, that he brought the young Earl with him: The Legate presently told him, that he was now his prisoner till Carcasson was taken, and till his Subjects had better learn­ed their duty: the Earl astonished hereat,The Earl made a prisoner. cried out that he was betrai­ed, and that faith was violated with him, &c. but this nothing prevail­ed, for he was presently committed to the guard and custody of the Duke of Burgonne.

The inhabitants of Carcasson understanding this,A speciall pro­vidence. brake forth into tears, and were so astonished, that they now thought of nothing but how by flight to escape the danger, but that seemed impossible, being environed with such an Army: at last one told them, that he heard some old men say, that there was a certain vault under ground, great and large, which went to the Castle of Cameret three leagues off: Then were all the Citizens imploied to search for this vault, and having at last found it, they began their flight in the evening, with their wives and children, carrying with them only some victuals for a few daies. This departure was accompanied with much sorrow thus to leave all their worldly enjoyments: The next morning they came to the Castle, and from thence dispersed themselves, some to Arragon, others to Ca­talonia, others to Tholouse, whether it pleased God to conduct them.Carcasson taken

In the morning the Pilgrims were strangely astonished, hearing no noise nor seeing any man stirring in the City, yet they approached the wals with much fear, lest it should be but a stratagem to endanger them, but finding no opposition, they mounted the wals, crying out, that the Albingenses were fled, and thus was the City with all the spoils tak­en,Simon of Mont­fort made Ge­nerall. and the Earl of Beziers committed to prison in one of the strongest Towers of Carcasson.

Then did the Legate call all the Prelates, and great Lords of his Ar­my together, telling them, that though it was requisite that there should be alwaies a Legate in the Army, yet it was likewise necessary that there should be a secular General, wise and valiant, to command in all their affairs, &c. This charge was first proffered to the Duke of Bur­gonne, then to the Earl of Ennevers, and to the Earl of S. Paul: but they all refused it: Lastly, it was proffered to Earl Simon of Montfort, who after some excuses, accepted of it.

The Earl being made general, settled himself at Carcasson with four thousand Pilgrims, all the remainders of that huge Army.

After this Earl Remund of Tholouse, went to the French King for his Letters of commendation to the Pope, to be by him fully cleared from the death of Frier Peter, and the Pope thereupon received him courte­ously, [Page 146] gave him full remission and absolution, and thereby declared him sufficiently justified.

Shortly after the Earl of Beziers died in prison, and Earl Simon was put into possession of his lands,Eearl of Bezi­ers dieth. whereupon all that bordered upon him began to fear him, for that he gave it out that the Spring follow­ing he would have a great Army of Pilgrims, wherewith he would chastise those that had not acknowledged his authority given him by the Church. Upon this occasion Castris sent unto him the keys of their City; the Castle of Pinies yielded to him, and so did all round about Carcasson: But the King of Arragon secretly encouraged the Gentle­men of the Vicounty of Beziers, The King of Arragon en­courageth the Albingenses. telling them that his Pilgrims would be uncertain, and would not stay long with him, and that if in the mean time they would but keep themselves in their Garisons, when he was weak by the departure of his Pilgrims, they might then set upon him, and reduce him to reason.

These messages gave such encouragement to the Gentry, that the Earl Simon being gone to Montpelliar, they took arms to shake off his yoak, besieging some of his souldiers in a Tower near to Carcasson: the Earl hearing of it presently returned to succor them, but the Tower was taken before he came, which affront brought him into some con­tempt: Then Captain Boucard belonging to Earl Simon, attempted to surprise the strong Castle of Cabe [...]et, making his approach thereto as secretly as he could: Captain Roger commanding therein for Earl Re­mund, was come forth with eighty horse to forrage: Boucard on the sudden charged him: but Roger doubled the charge in so furious a man­ner, that he overcame Boucards party, and brought him prisoner into that Castle that he came to surprise.

Gerad of Pepios took part with the Albingenses, so that the warre grew hot:Earl Simons pride abated. but all the men that Earl Simon took, he caused a great fire to be made, and cast them into it: neither did his men escape scot-free, when they fell into their enemies hands.

The City of Carcasson was hereupon stricken with great fear, ha­ving little hope to defend themselves, but by flight, being environed on all sides by their enemies. About this time Earl Simon wrote to all the Prelates through Europe, that if in the Spring following they did not send him good store of Pilgrims,Prodigious cruelty. he could hold out no longer against his enemies, having since the last departure of his Pilgrims, lost above fourty Towns and Castles; And whilest that he waited for these new succours, he surprised the Castle of Beron, where he pulled out the eyes of above a hundred Albingenses, and cut off their noses, leaving only one with one eye to guide the rest to Cabaret.

Anno 1210. Earl Simon being shut up in Carcasson for want of soul­diers, heard that his wife was comming from France with many Pil­grims, whereupon he went out to meet her: These Pilgrims he im­ployed against the Castle of Menerbe, Menerbe taken. which at last was yielded up to him for want of water. This Castle was defended by Remund, Lord of Termes, and was scituated in Narbonne: one argument which Earl [Page 147] Simon used to stirre up his crossed souldiers to fight manfully against it, was, For (that saith he,) there hath been no Masse sung in it since the yeare 1180. which is now thirty years, Upon the surrender of the Castle they laboured to draw this noble Lord to recant his religion, and turne Papist; but finding him immovable, they shut him up in a straight prison, where shortly after he died: they also took his wife, sister, and daughter, who was a maid, and other Noble women, with whom they laboured to withdraw them from the truth both by flattery and frowns, by faire speeches, and cruell threats, but when they saw that nothing would prevaile, they made an huge fire, casting them into the same, and burning them: God fridi Annales. Also af­ter his taking of the said Castle, he caused a Frier to preach to the people, and to exhort them to acknowledge the Pope and Church of Rome: but they not staying till he had done▪ cried out,Courage and constancy. We will not for­sake our faith, you labour but in vain, for neither life nor death shall make us abandon our beliefe. Then did the Earl and Legate cause a great fire to be made, and cast into it a hundred and fourscore men and wo­men, who went in with joy, giving God thanks for that he was plea­sed so to honour them, as to die for his Names sake: They also told Earl Simon that he would one day pay dear for his cruelties. All that saw their valour, and constancy were much amazed at it.

Then did the Earl besiege the Castle of Termes, which also at last was taken for want of water; yet they within the Castle,The Castle of Termes taken. when they perceived that they could hold out no longer, one night quit the place and passed away undiscovered. The Castle de la Vaur, was also be­sieged, in which there were many godly people: Thither came ma­ny Pilgrims to the Legate, from all Countries; and amongst others,Six thousand Pilgrims slain. six thousand Germanes, of whose coming the Earl of Foix hearing, he laid an ambush for them, overthrew and slew them all, not one e­scaping but an Earl that carried the news to Earl Simon. After six moneths siege the Castle of Vaur was taken by assault,Horrible cruel­ty. where all the souldiers were put to the sword save eighty Gentlemen, whom Earl Simon caused to be hanged, and the Lord Aimeri on a gibbet higher then all the rest, the Lady his sister was called Girauda, was cast into a ditch, and there covered with stones.

And for the rest of the people a very great fire was made, and they were put to their choise, whether they would forsake their opinions, or perish by the flames: There were scarce any of them found that would doe the first, but exhorting one another, they went into the kindled fire of their own accord, saith Altisiodore, but more probably they were forced into the same, where joyfully they resigned up their spirits unto God: Some say that they were about foure hundred persons that thus perished by fire.

After the return of the Earl Remund from the Pope, the Legate still fought to entrap him,Popish subtilty but the Earl would not come againe within his reach. Then did the Legate send the Bishop of Tholouse to him, who pretended a great deal of love and friendship to the Earl, and by his [Page 148] subtilty at last prevailed with him to profer his strong Castle of Nar­bonnes to them to lodge in as they passed that way: but as soon as the Legate and his company were entred, they seised upon it, and put into it a garison, which was a continuall vexation to all his subjects.

Then did the Legate resolve upon the utter extirpation of Earl Remund, The Legate dies. and all his house, as the head of the Albingenses; but presently after this Legate dying, Earl Simon was frustrated of this hope.

About this time the English who now possessed Guienne, which bor­dereth upon the Earldom of Tholouse began to help the Albingenses, be­ing stirred up thereto by Reinard Lollard, The English help the Albin­genses. a godly, and learned man, who by his powerfull preaching converted many to the truth, and defended the faith of the Albingenses; for which they were so eager­ly pursued, and constantly suffered Martyrdom: And this they did the rather, not only for their neighbour-hoods sake, or for that Simon Earl of Lecester was a rebell, and traitour to their King, but because this Remund Earl of Tholouse, whom they so cruelly whipped, and o­ther wise abused, and had now also excommunicated, was brother in law to King John. For his former wife was Joane sometimes Queene of Sicilie, which Joane was K [...]ng Johns sister, and bare to the Earl of Tholouse, Remund, who succeeded his father both in the Earldome, and in his troubles. John le Maier much commendeth this Lol­lard, saying that he foretold many things by Divine Revelation, which (saith he) came to passe in my time, and therefore he putteth him into the rank of holy prophets: And for his learning it is evident by his comment upon the Revelation, where he setteth forth many things that are spoken of the Roman Antichrist. This worthy man was afterwards apprehended in Germany; and being delivered to the secular power, was burnt at Collen.

Anno 1211. A new Legate called Theodosius was appointed to suc­ceed who excommunicated Earl Remund, Popish pride and the Bishop of Tholouse thereupon sent the Earl word that he must depart out of the City, for that he could not say Masse whilest an excommunicated person was in the City: The Earl returned this answer, being netled at his in­solency,Popish hypo­crisie. that he (the Bishop) should presently depart out of his Ter­ritories, and that upon pain of his life: accordingly the Bishop de­parted, and took with him the Canons of the Cathedrall Church, with the Crosse, Banner, and Host, and all of them barefooted in Procession: Coming thus to the Legates Army, they were received as persecuted Martyrs, with the teares of the Pilgrims, and generall applause of all.

Then the Legate thought that he had suffici [...]nt cause to prosecute Earl Remund, as a relapsed and impenitent man; but first he sought by craft to get him into his power, and with his fair flatering letters, he at last drew him once again to Arles: The Earl had requested the King of Arragon to meet him there. When they were both come, the [Page 149] Legate commanded them upon the pain of his high indignation, that they should not depart, but with his leave: Whilest they were there, the Earl was privately shewed by a friend, The Articles of the Legate to which he would enforce him to subscrib,Articles a­gainst Earl Remund. which were these.

1. That the Earl of Tholouse should presently dismiss, and cashiere all his men at Armes, not restraining one.

2. That he shall be obedient, and subject to the Church: and re­paire all the costs, and damages which the Church hath been at.

3. That in his lands, no man should eat of more then two sorts of flesh.

4. That he shall expell out of his territories all the Hereticks, and their allies.

5. That he shall deliver into the hands of the Legate, and of Earl Simon, all those persons that shall be named unto him.

6. That no man in his lands whether noble, or ignoble, shall were any costly apparell, but black course clokes.

7. That All his Castles of defence shall be razed to the ground.

8. That no Gentlemen of his shall live in any City, or Castle, but in country houses, or villages only.

9. That he shall not levie in his land any taxes, or tolls, but such as in old time were accustomed.

10. That every Master of a family shall pay yearly four Tholousian pence to the Legate.

11. That when Earl Simon shall passe through his countries, he shall beare their charges.

12. That after his performances of these things, he shall go into the Holy land to fight against the Turke, and never return againe into his owne country, but by the leave of the Pope, or his Legate.

Remund having read over these Articles shewed them to the King, who advised him presently to mount on horseback, least seising upon him, they might the better become masters of all his e­state which accordingly he did. The Legate was much troubled that he had thus lost his prey, and despairing to do any more by subtilty, he resolved to set upon him by force: and thereupon he besieged the Castle of Montferrand, where Baldwin, Earl Remund in danger. the brother of the Earl of Tholouse was governour: Baldwin, at least pretending inability to de­fend the place, yielded it up, and abjuring his opinions turned Papist.

The Earl of Tholouse seeing himselfe thus betrayed by his brother, lamented exceedingly:His brother betrays him. but a greater mischiefe soone after befell him: For the Legate, and Earl Simon wonne from him by their subtilty, the King of Arragon, his only prop under God: and that by this meanes they agreed that the King of Arragons daughter should be married to Earl Simon's eldest son, in consideration whereof the King of Arragon invested Simon in the Earldom of Beziers: and now they intend jointly to besieg Tholouse: For which end the Bishop [Page 150] of Tholouse was sent to levy souldiers in France, and at his returne hasted to Tholouse: which Earl Remund hearing of, sallyed out of the City with five hundred horse, and some foot, marching to the bridg which goeth over the river of Garenne not far from Tholouse, Tholouse be­sieged. hoping either to gaine it, or to breake it down: but being overpowered by multitude, he was forced to make a retreat, and the enemie pursued him to the very gates of Tholouse: But Earl Remund seeing their insolency, sal­lyed out againe with a greater strength, and charged them so gal­lantly, that he beat them back to the bridge, which being but nar­row, he slew almost all of them there: and took prisoner a­mongst them,The Pilgrims beaten. Aimery the son of Earl Simon. Earl Simon hearing of this loss, hasted with all his army to the City, and gave a furious assault to it, but the ditches were soone filled with the dead bodies of the e­nemie beaten from their scaling laddars: and the Earl himselfe was beaten from his horse. In the middest of this assault, came the Earl of Campeigne soon enough to be well beaten for his welcome,The siege rais­ed. Earl Simon finding such stout resistance from the Citizens, caused his Pilgrimes to spoil the Orchards, Gardens, and Vineyards about the city, which being perceived; the President of Argeves issued out of the City suddenly, and slew a number of the Pilgrims, and on another part, the Earl of Foix slew as many as he could meet with.

The Earl of Bar seeing the disorder of the Popish Army cried out a Bar, a Bar, but the Citizens of Tholouse charged him so bravely, that being dis­comfited, he was faigne to fly amongst the rest. After this victory Earl Remund returning to Tholouse caused publike, and solemne thanks to be returned unto God, for the same.

Earl Simon after this lead his Army into the country of the Earl of Foix, who was now sick, where he took some townes: also the Legat with another part of the army went to Roquemaur, and in his way took the To­wer of Cassas;Popish perfidi­ousness [...], and cruelty. and caused above an hundred men that were found there­in most cruelly to be burned alive, and levelled the Tower to the earth.

Earl Remund being much afflicted for the loss, and alienation of his an­cient friend the King of Arragon, studied how he might regaine him, and for that end propounded a match betweene his only son, and heire, and the King of Arragons daughter, which motion the King readily im­braced, and so their amity was againe revived.

Not long after the King of Arragon sent a letter of defiance to Earl Simon, who sent the same all over Christendom to stir up Pilgrims to assist him for the destruction of the King who (as he said) was now be­come the Captaine of the Albingenses: and in the meane time the Popes Legate raising an army in France, went speedily into the Earl­dome of Foix, and took some Towns, putting all to the sword without distinction of sex or age, and taking also St. Anthonies, he caused thirty of the principall men to be hanged in cold blood, after he had granted them their lives.

Anno Christi 1213. Peter King of Arragon with a great army of Ar­ragonois, and Tholousians besieged Muret, a strong Towne scituated [Page 151] upon the river Garronne near unto Tholouse: There was in his Army the Earls of Tholouse: Comminges, and of Foix; but the night following, the Popish Bishops sent two Friers to him, desiring him to take pitty on the Church: and not to undertake the defence of the Hereticks, but they laboured in vaine, for the King would not desert them, where­upon they prepared the next day to give him battle, and whilest Si­mon Montfort was encouraging his souldiers, the Bishop of Tholouse carryed a crucifix in his hand, whereupon the Captains a lighting, ado­red it with and humble kiss. Then the Bishop of Comminges, getting upon an high place took the crosse in his hand, and blessed the Army with it, promising forgivenesse of all sins to all that dyed in that quarrell: Hereupon Simon divided his army into three Bat­talia's in the name of the Trinity, and so joyning battle, they fought very gallantly on both sides▪ till at length the King of Arragon was slaine, and so God (who doth not alwayes prosper the best cause) gave the victory to the Popelings, and they were slaine in the fight, and pursute about two millions of the Albingenses, as their enemies re­ported. The Albingenses attributed this loss to Gods judgement up­on the humane confidence of the King, who trusted too much in his great numbers, and was feasting whilest his enemies were plotting,

After this victory the Popes agents sent abroad their letters into divers countries for a new supply of Pilgrims utterly to root out the Hereticks.

With this victory Earl Simon was so puffed up, that he sum­moned the Earls of Tholouse, Foix and Comminges, and the Prince of Bearn, to deliver to him the keyes of those Cities and Castles which they possessed: They returned no answer, but each of them be­tooke himself to his own Territories, to provide the best they could for their affairs.

Earl Remund retired to M [...]ntalbon, writing to them at Tholo [...]se, that understanding that the Bishop of Arras was coming with a great Army of Pilgrims against them, and that he was altogether disabled to defend their City, he had advised them therefore that they should make the best terms they could for themselves with Earl Simon, yet de­sired them to reserve their hearts for him, till God should give him meanes to free them from those miseries. In the interim, the Earls of Foix, Comminges, and the Prince of Bearn did what they could to infest the enemies Armies.

Upon the former advice the Citizens of Tholouse sent some Deputies to Earl Simon, to profer him the keyes of their City,Popish perfidi­ousnesse. whom he received honourably, and presently wrote to Lewis son of King Philip, that the City of Tholouse was offered to him, but his desire was that he should come and have the honour of taking it: The Prince went thither im­mediately, and had Tholouse delivered to him: Yet the Legate re­solved that the pillage of it should be given to his Pilgrims, and the City dismantled, which was presently executed, though contrary to the promise made to the Citizens, that no wrong should be done to the City.

[Page 152] Then came there a new Legate of the Popes called Bonaventure with those that had taken on them the Crosse. Viz. the Earle of Saint Paul, the Earle of Savoy, the Earle of Alenzon, the vicount of Melun, Mathew de Montmorency, Subtilty and other great Lords. The Legate seeing so many Pil­grims, feared least Prince Lewis should take upon him to dispose of divers places held by the Albingenses, to the prejudice of the Church: Where­upon he presently sent to all those places Absolution and protection, so that when the Prince came against them, they shewed that they were un­der the protection of the Church: Yea the Legate told the Prince, that since he had taken upon him the Crosse, he was to be subject to his com­mands; because he presented the person of the Pope, whose Pardons (saith he) you come to obtaine by obeying the Church, and not by com­manding as the son of a King. The Prince dissembled his displeasure at this audaciousnesse; and the poore Albingenses were so op­pressed by new Armies of Pilgrims, that they sunk under the burthen of it.

Prince Lewis retires.The Prince, when his fourty daies service were expired, retired him­self, being much discontented to see so much tyranny exercised against the Albingenses.

Then did Earl Simon besieg the Castle of Foix, but having lain ten dayes before it, he found to his cost that the place was not to be won by him: For where as Earl Simons brother quartered at varilles, the Earl of Foix dislodged him, and slew him with his launce, putting to flight all his men. News hereof being brought to Earl Simon he swore that he would drive the Earl of Foix behinde the Pyrenaean Mountaines:Earl Simon beaten. but presently he had intelligence that a great Army of the Arrogonois, and Catalunians were come into the Earldom of Beziers, threatning to be revenged on him for the death of their good King, where upon he levied his siege in hast, and marched thitherwards: But the Earle of Foix, who knew the passages better then he, lay in ambush for him in a place fit for his turne, and suddenly setting upon his Pilgrims, slew a great number of them: only Earl Simon with a few others escaped, and went to Carcasson: but before he came thither, the Arrogonois were gone, else might they easily have discomfited him, yet shortly after they returned again, and Earle Simon was foundly beaten by them, so that he was forced▪ to shut himself up in Carcasson till he had a new supply of Pilgrims.

Shortly after came Remund the son of Earl Remund out of England, where he had been bred under his uncle King John,Young Re­munds successe. with an Army, and quickly made himself Master of the City of Beaucaire, and almost famish­ed them that held the Castle, so that they yeelded it up to depart with their baggage. There Earl Simon lost a hundred Gentlemen that he had laid in ambush neer unto the City, whom young Remund in a sally cut in pieces.

Earl Simon ho­noured. Anno 1214. The Legate called a Councel at Montpelier, for renuing of the Army of the Church, and to confirm the authority of Earle Simon; where they declared him to be Prince of all the Countries conquer­ed [Page 153] from the Albingenses, which title was confirmed to him by the Pope also. Who stiled him the active and dexterous soldier of Jesus Christ, and the invincible defender of the Catholick Faith. But whilest Earl Simon was in the Council receiving this his new honour, a great ru­mour was heard in the City, and a messenger brought word that the peo­ple, hearing that Earl Simon was there, betook themselves to their Arms, purposing to kill him; whereupon he stole away by the walls of the City on foot, without any company, and so escap­ed; so that in one houre he saw himself honoured as a God, and flying disguised, hiding himself like a base scoundrell,And disgraced. for feare of the rascall multitude.A Council a­gainst the Al­bingenses.

Anno Christi 1215. Their was a Councill held by the Pope at Lateran, where they gave the Inquisitors such power against the Gospellers, that poor people were every where horribly tortured that were but suspected for Heresie, and (as Tritemius saith) Frier Conradus of Marpurg, Popish cruelty the Popes Inquisitor, if he but suspected any as guilty of Heresie, vsed to trie them by the judgment of red hot irons, and such as were burned by the irons he delivered as Hereticks, to the secular power, to be bur­ned in the flames: whereupon most of those that were accused were by him condemned to be burnt, few escaping the hot irons: In so much as Noble, Ignoble, Clerks, Monks, Nuns, Burgesses, Citizens, and countrymen were under the name of Heresie (by too headlong a sentence of the Inquisitor on the same day where on they were accused) cast into the cruell flames, no refuge of appeale or defence doing them any good▪

By the same Lateran Councill, Earle Simon had the forementioned lands of the Albingenses confirmed to him, and thereupon he hastened to the King of France to receive investiture, and as he went (saith the Monk of Sernay) in every City and towne the Popish Clergy, and people met him, crying, Blessed is he that commeth to us in the name of the Lord, and every man thought himself happy that could but touch the hem of his garment.

When he had recived his Investiture from the King of France, being attended with an hundred Bishops that had preached the Crosse in their Diocess, and with an exceding great Army of Pilgrims he hasted to make himself Lord of all those countries, which the Pope had given him. So that all men trembled at his reproach, and with this great Army of Pilgrims he took in divers places, using great cruelty,A new Army of Pilgrims. putting men women and children to the sword. Then was he marching to Tholouse, purposing to pillage and raze it to the ground:Cruelty. But by the way his wife sent him word that he must speedily come to her relief, being besieged in the Castle of Narbonnes, by the Earl of Tholouse; but by this time many of his Pilgrims were returned into France.

Yet Earl Simon hasted to the relief of his wife, and being come be­fore Tholouse, the people by their frequent sallies made that place too hot for his abode.A popish brag. The Legate perceiving that he was much astonish­ed at it, said unto him; Fear nothing, we shall quickly recover the City, [Page 154] and then we will destroy all the inhabitants; and if any of our Pilgrims are in the fight, they shall, as Martyrs, immediately passe to Paradise. here­upon one of Earl Simons great Captains said, Monsieur Cardinall, you talke with great assurance, but if the Earl believe you, it will be little for his profit, for you, and other Prelates have been the causers of all this evil, and will be of more, if he believe you. Then was it resolved that the City should be besieged on the side of Gascon, but the Citizens made such a blunt salley, that they put their enemies to flight; and presently the Earl of Foix coming with new supplies, fell upon Earl Simon ▪ chased him to the river Garonne, E. S [...]mon bea [...]en where many of his Pilgrims were drowned, and the Earle with his horse fell into the river, and hardly escaped.

The Earl Remund caused publick thanksgiving to God for this happy victory.Thanksgiving.

Earl Simon being in great perplexity, a Bishop bid him be of good comfort, for that the Cardinal had sent messengers throughout the world to raise him succours, and so he was inforced to wait, with much impatiency, the coming of these new supplies,

Anno 1218. There came to him a hundred thousand Pilgrims, and he was resolved that they should earn their pardons, knowing that at the end of fourty daies they would vanish: Whereupon the next morning they were ordered to give a generall assault to Tholouse: But Earl Remund perceiving in the night that they were very secure, be­cause of their great multitude, he sallied out upon them, and that with so good successe, that ere morning all the field was covered with their dead bodies,Many Pilgrims slaine. and the Earl with his men being weary with killing, re­turned into the City to give thanks unto God for his assistance.

Then did Earl Simon enter into the Castle of Narbonnes to see if he could discerne any way to enter into the City, but finding none, it much troubled him, whereupon two Lords gave him Coun­sell to come to some honourable agreement: yet the Cardinal Be­trand told him that there was no need for him so to do; To whom one of them answered, Monsieur Cardinal, pray you where finde you that you should take from Earl Remund, and his son that which belongs unto them: If I had known as much as I know now, I had never taken upon me this business.

After nine moneths siege the Citizens of Tholouse made another sally, killing as many of the crossed souldiers as they encountered with; and Earl Simon coming in to the reliefe of his men, had his horse shot in the head with an arrow, which caused him to run away with him, which one of the Albingenses seeing, with his Cross-bow he shot him thorow the thigh;E. Simon slain by a woman. Simon perceiving that he lost much bloud, was la­bouring to get out of the presse, but just at that present, a woman discharging an engine from the walls of Tholouse, a stone parted his head from his shoulders; and thus by Gods just judgement, he that had been the deflourer and murtherer of many women, was himselfe slaine by a woman.

[Page 155] Upon his death, the Legate and all the Bishops fled, never staying till they came to Carcasson, the Pilgrims disbanded and returned to their homes, and Earl Remund caused a publick Thanksgiving to be returned to Almighty God for this so signall a deliverance.

Afterwatds, at the instigation of the Pope, Prince Lewis of France went, and besieged Tholouse, but finding the business too hot for him, he returned without doing any thing of note:Prince Lewis his cruelty. yet in this iourney he tooke the towne of Miromand, wherein he cruelly put to the sword men, women, and children to the number of five thousand.

Upon his returne the Legat Bertrand being weary of these warres, wrote to Pope Honorius the 3. desiring to be recalled because of his age: yet with all, he signified a necessity of continuing these warrs Otherwise (saith he) not only the lands of the Albingenses wilbe lost, but the Church of Rome itself will be ruined, the Doctrin of the Al­bingenses shaking the authority of the Popes themselves: And (saith he) this war hath cost us very deare, for within less then fifteene years there hath dyed above three hundred thousand Crossed soldiers: and therefore all wilbe lost, except these Hereticks be utterly de­stroyed.

This occasioned the Pope to send a new Legat [Conradus Bishop of Portua] Also he granted to all Crossed soldiers that fought against the Albingenses the same in dulgences as to those that went to fight against the Saracens in the Holy land: Moreover he tooke King, Philip of France into his protection, and made peace betwixt him, and young King Henry the third of England: so that Philip wholly bent himself to roote out the Gospellers.

Anno Christi 1220. Earl Guido of Monfort, son,Earl Guido slaine. and heire to Earl Simon went against the Albingenses, but was soone after slaine by the E. of Sant Giles as he besieged a Castle in Tholouse: Then did his brother Almerick besieg the same Castle, and swore that he would never depart from it till he had taken it: But after a while, his hoped-for aides fail­ing him, he was faigne to leave the siege and depart. After whose departure the Albingenses recovered many places.

Anno Christi 1221. the young Emperor Frederick, by the instiga­tion of the Pope, published a cruell,The Empe­rours cruell edict against them and bloody Edict against the Gos­pellers with in his Dominions, where in he damned them with perpetuall ignominy, and declared them publick enemies: Commanding their goods to be confiscated, without redemption; and their sons to be disinherited. As also that all of them that were apprehended by the Inquisitors or others, should be kept in Prison, till they were kil­led with an abomminable death: The like punishment he commanded to be inflicted on all such as should aide, or assist them. Also he tooke away all benefit of appeale from such as were receivers, or favourers of them. And further he commanded that their houses, and the houses of such as should receive, defend, or favour them, either where they have taught, or where they have laid on hands, should [Page 156] be plucked downe,The Gospellers dispersed and never more repaired.

Also the same yeare some of these Albingenses going into Bosina and Dalmatia drew many of the people to imbrace their faith, whereupon the Bishop of Collen was sent thither by Pope Honorius as his Legate, and required to force them to returne to the Catholick faith (as they called it) either by perswasion, or by the arms of the Crossed soul­diers, but where neither prevailed, he being a weary of the work, left it to the Frier predicants to see if by arguments they could convince and convert them,Persecuted. Columminus the King assisting them: and (saith mine Author) when they had got footing, they burnt with fires those that were obstinate in their Heresies, and purged the Churches which were defiled by them: Leander de viris illust. ordinis praedica­torum.

Anno Christi 1223. Bartholmew, the Bishop of the Albingenses of Tholouse, The Gospellers encrease. ordeined a Bishop for Bulgary, Croatia, and Dalmatia, where their faith spread so fast, that Bishops themselves were drawn to be of their opinion, whereupon Conradius Bishop of Portua, the Popes Legate wrote to the Arch-Bishop of Roan, and his Suffragan Bishops, to meet, with others Bishops at a Councill to be held at Sens against the said Bartholmew: who (saith the Legate) in his letters, stiles himself servant of the servants of God: and runs about, Creating Bishops, and endeavoring perfidiously to gather Churches. Mathew Paris.

Anno Christi 1226. (saith the same Author) the Crosse was preached all over France by Romanus the Popes Legate,The King of France against them. against the Albingenses, where in he commanded all that were able to beare arms to signe them selves with the signe of the Crosse against the Earl of Tholouse, and his people: and at his preaching, a great multitude of Prelates, and Lay men tooke upon them the signe of the Crosse, yet more for fear of the King of France, and for favour of the Legate, then induced by the justness of the cause. But the King of France being signed with the Crosse, would not take upon him the expedition, unlesse the Pope would forbid the King of England under paine of excommu­nication to move war against him for any land that he possessed at that present, either iustly or unjustly: which accordingly the Pope did, and our King Henry the third upon receipt of the Popes letters assembled his Nobles to consult with them what he should do upon this inhibition, at which time their was present one Mr William Perepund, skilfull in Astronomy, who constantly affirmed before the King; That if the King of France took upon him this expedition, he should either never returne alive, or else should meet with as greate confusion as might be, both of his person, estate, and followers.

The King of France having thus settled his affaires at home, he to­gether with the Legate, appointed a Peremptory day for the Crossed-souldiers to come to a rendevous with their horses, and Arms at Lyons, from which at the time appointed he began his expidition with an huge Army which was accounted Invincible, whom the Legate [Page 157] followed with Arch-Bishops; Bishops &c. In the Army there were reckoned to be fifty thousand Knights, and men at Arms on horsback, besides an innumerable company of footmen; and then did the Le­gate publickly excommunicate the Earl of Tholouse, putting all his favourers, and lands under Interdict.

The King thus marching with his glittering Arms; and terrible Army on Whitson-Eve came to Avignion, the first City in Tholouse, pur­posing to destroy the whole land of the Earl, from one end to the other, and utterly to root out the Inhabitants thereof: yet very cunningly the King and the Legate sent to the Citizens, only desiring passage through the City, that they might follow their iourney the neerest way; The Citi­zens consulting together, returned answer, That they suspected fraud, nei­ther would they admit them into the City, where upon the King in a great rage, swore that he would not depart thence till he had taken the City.

The Citizens valiantly defended themselves so that the sieg lasted long, and the Earl of Tholouse being a skilfull warrior,Avignion be­sieged. before the comming of the French Army, had withdrawne all kind of victualls together with the women, children, and cattell into places of safety: Hereupon the Kings Army fell into great wants, so that multitudes perished by famine: Their horses and beasts also were starved; for the Earl had caused all the meddowes to be plowed up in the whole country so that they had no fodder but what was brought out of France: And their wants daily increasing, many Legions went out of the Kings Camp to seek for food, and fodder,A Famine in the Kings Ar­my. but the Earl of Tholouse with a flying Army, many times lay in am­bush for them, and cut off multitudes of them. They also that lay in the siege before the City were miserably wasted by darts, and stones shot in ingines from the walls by the Citizens valiantly de­fending themselves; and a generall famine overspread all, but it raged most amongst the poorer sort, who had neither food nor money: Also out of the dead carkasses of men, and beasts their bred certaine great, and blackflies,A dreadfull Judgement which comming into there tents by swarms with an horible humming, infected their meat, and drink, and when they were not able to drive them from their cupps, and dishes, many of the Pilgrims perished suddenly by their meanes. But the King and Legate were especially troubled, and confounded to think what reproach it would be to them, and to the Church of Rome, that so gallant, and numerous an Army should vndertake such an expedi­tion, and be able to effect nothing: Then the chiefe Princes, and Cap­tains being weary of the long siege amongst so many deaths, sollicit that a generall storme might be given to the City, hoping by their multitudes to oppresse the Citizens, which being resolved upon, such a great multitude of Armed men thronged upon the bridge that goes over the river of Rhodanus, that the bridge breaking under them, three thousand of them were drowned in that swift river.Many of them drowned.

Presently after as the French were one day at dinner the Citizens dis­covering there carlesness, suddenly sallied forth,The French beaten. & violently setting upon [Page 158] them, suddenly slew Twenty thousand of them with out any losse to themselves, and so retired: and the King of France commanded the dead bodies to be throwne into the River affording them no other buriall:The K [...]ng removes further from the City. Then did he also remove his sieg to afarther distance, and to prevent the like attempts, caused a great ditch to be cast up between the City and his camp: and the Legate with his Prelates not knowing how otherwise to reveng themselves, Anathematized the Earl of Tholou­se, and all the subjects: But whom they cursed, the Lord blessed: For shortly after he sent a very great plague into the French campe, so that king Lewis, to escape the same, retired himself into the neighbouring Abbey of Monpensier, where he resolved to remain till the City should be taken unto whom came Henry, A plague in the French Cam [...] Earl of Compaigne, desiring to be dismissed, having now sereved his fourty daies: but the King denyed his request. To whom the Earl said, that having performead what was injoyned, he neither might nor would be staid any longer: The King being very angry hereat, swore that if he departed, he would wast his whole land with fire, and sword: yet the Earl, according to his former resolution, went his waies: and shortly after the Lord struck the King with sickness whereof he dy­ed:The King of France dyeth. The Legate, and great Captaines concealed his death for a month together, and in the interim sent messengers laboring to draw the Citizens to a composition, and Commissioners, being sent to the Camp, the Legate perswaded them to resigne up their City to him upon promise, that they should injoy their lives estates, and liberties in a better manner then they had formerly: but they answered, that they would not live under the power of the Frenchmen, whose pride, and insolency they had often tryed.

After along Parlee the Legate desired that himself and the Praelates, might be admitted into the City, swearing with a great oath that he had continued the sieg so long only that he might seek the salvation of their souls. The Citizens giving credit to his promise, not suspecting his treachery, after mutuall Oaths given on either side, admitted him with the Praelates, and their followers into the City: but contrary to their oaths the Frenchmen followed, violently rushing into the City when the Gates were open,Av [...]gnion ta­ken by treache­ry. and seizing upon the Citizens they bound them, plundered their houses, and slew many; and having thus by treachery made themselves Masters of the City, they brake downe the walls, and the strong towers of that noble City.

During this sieg their perished more then 22000. of the Pilgrims, by famine, sword, pestilence, and other waies: and so the rest returned to their owne homes.

Anno Christi 1228. The Pope [now Gregory] being implacably bent to rout out the Albingenses, stirred up the young King of France against them, who sent a great Army into Provence vtterly to destroy them, which Army hearing that the Earle of Tholouse was in the castle called Saracen, The young [...]ing of France persecuts them. they purposed to besieg him as being there shut up: But the Earl having notice of their intent, with strong troopes he lay in ambush in a wood through which they were to passe: & when they were come to the place, he gallantly assaulted them & after a bloudy fight, slew many, took two hundred Knights,His armies bea­ [...]en. & about two thousand men at Arms: The Knights [Page 159] he imprisoned: but of the other he caused some of their eyes to be pulled out, others to have their noses cut off and so dismissed them. That summer the King of France sent three Armies against them, all which were either put to flight or taken, and imprisoned by the said Earl. Mathew Paris.

Yet the same yeare, Imbert of Beavim went against them with a great Army of Crossed souldiers, amongst whom were three Arch-bi­shops, every one with the Pilgrimes of his Jurisdiction: And the Earl of Tholouse (being as it s [...]emes unprovided) was faigne to shut up him­selfe within the wals of Tholouse, Tholouse besieg­ed. where he was strongly besieged by the Pilgrimes, who also wasted, and spoiled his country, and har­vest, far and nere on every side: And the siege continuing, the Ci­tizens suffered great Famine, and when they were brought to this ex­tremity the Abbat of Grandsylue went from the Popes Legate to offer peace to Earl Remund, and the Tholousians:A great Famine Some of the Earls Cap­tains disswaded him from it, knowing the perfidiousnesse of the Papists, but the cries of the hunger starved multitude prevailed, so that a Truce was agreed upon for certaine daies, and Earl Remund upon the day appointed went to the place where the peace should be con­cluded. But when he came thither, the Abbat perswaded him that it was necessary that the agreement should be perfected in the pre­sence of the Queen Mothers, who was regent of France, Popish treache­ry. and pawn­ed his faith to him, that if he would go to her, she should go; and re­turne in safety. The Earl overcome by these promises assented, and Meaux was the place chosen by the Queen for their meeting. But as soone as Earl Remund came thither, contrary to all oaths, and en­gagements, he was made a prisoner, and had a guard set upon him that he might not start aside; and instead of a treaty, he must submit to whatsoever should be enjoyned▪

It was a lamentable thing (saith the Historiographer of Languedock) to see so brave a man, that for so long a time was able to resist the whole power of France, to come in his shirt, and linnen breeches bare­foot, and bare-leged to the Altar in the presence of the Cardinals, and their to accept of such hard, and unreasonable conditions as they were pleased to impose upon him: Amongst which these were some:Unreasonable terms put upon the Earl of Tholouse. that he should abjure the Heresie which hitherto he had defended; That for the future he should be subject to the Church of Rome. That he should cast all the Hereticks out of his dominions: That he should give his only daughter Joane in marriage to one of the King of France his brethren: That he should pay a yearly stipend to six Popish Professors of the liberall Arts, and to two Grammarians at Tholouse: That he should take upon him the Crosse, and for five years wage warre against the Sa­racens, and other enemies of the Faith, and Church: And lastly, that he should levell with the ground the walls of the City of Tholouse, and the walls of 30. other Cities, and Castles at the appointment of the Legate, and fill up their ditches, and so remaine a prisoner in the Louver at Paris, till his daughter Joane was discovered to the Kings messengers at Carcasson.

[Page 160] Pope Gregories Counsells a­gainst them. Anno Christi. 1229. diverse Councils were held against the Albin­genses: One at Tholouse, the Acts whereof were proclaimed in that City by Romanus, the Popes Legate, another at Narbonne, where more, and more cruell decrees were made against them. A third at Beziers exceeding in rigour both the former: and amongst the rest an oath of abjuration, whereby all persons, Males at fourteen yeares old, Fe­males at twelve yeares old, were to abjure all Heresie as they called it, and to swear that they would keep the Faith, and defend the Ca­tholike Church, and persecute all the opposers of the same: and that all that took not this oath within fifteen daeis, should be held sus­pected of Heresie, and proceeded against accordingly: also another Article was in these words: Item we forbid the use of the Old, and New Testament to the Lay people: Forbidding expressely that they have not the said books turned into the vulgar tongue. Also the same yeare on Munday, Thursday, Pope Gregory proclaimed Ecclesastical censures against them, and sent the prime Inquisitors of Dominicks order into France to put the same in execution, he wrote also to Lewis King of France to cast all those Hereticks out of France, and to cause the Earl of Tholouse to do the like in his Dominions, and to place new counsel­lors about him that might instruct him in the Catholike Faith, and Man­ners, and to cast all such from about him as might corrupt him.

And whereas the Kingdom of Arragon was infected with Here­sie, Pope Gregory gave the Arch-Bishop thereof, and his Suffragans power to erect an inquisition against them.

Anno Christi. 1232. Died Fulco Arch-Bishop of Tholouse, who had labored twenty six years in extinguishing the Gospellers whom, Remund of Fulgaerio succeeded,Persecution continued. and so manfully behaved himself, that in his first year he caused nineteen of the Albingenses to be apprehended and put to cruell deaths within his Diocess.

Anno Christi. 1233. Queen Blanch, and the Popes Legate, so o­ver awed the Earl of Tholouse, that they caused him to make cruell edicts against his owne subjects of the Albingensian Religion:A cruell Edict against them. That they should be persecuted, searched out, and taken: That whoso­ever could apprehend any one of them, should have a Mark for each of them so taken: that all that were suspected to be of their Religion should be excluded from office bearing, that all houses should be pul­led downe, wherein any of them should be found, that all their goods and inheritances should be confiiscated: That the like should be done to all that should aid or abett them, or that should hinder, or not assist the Inquisitors in the execution of their office: That whoso­ever should be suspected of their Heresie, should have an oath given him to keep the peace, and the Catholike Faith: That the houses of such as should be detected of Heresie after their death should be pul­led downe. That whosoever should refuse to weare the Cross should have his goods seized on. &c.

The bones of one of them burnt.The same year the Inquisitors were informed that in the territories of Brixia there had lately lived one Guido de Lacha, who was much [Page 161] honoured for his austerity, and integrity of life, but that he dyed out of the communion of the Church of Rome, having been infected with Heresie, whereupon they ordered his bones to be digged up, and burned.

The Earl of Foix, and Comminges, and the Prince of Bearne yet re­mained to be conquered: and the Popes Legate thought that the Earl of Tholouse was the fittest person to deale with them,A brave answer where­upon he caused him to write to them to perswade them to embrace the Catholike Faith, &c. But the Earl of Foix returned answer; That he could not forsake his faith in such a time wherein men might think that he did it rather out of feare then from any good grounds, and that it was fitter for them to convince him of the truth of their way then to allure him by promises, or force him thereto by Armes: And that if they brought that world of Pilgrims against him which they threatned, he trusted in God that he should make them know the Justice of his cause, and repent of the rashnesse of their vow. But the Earls subjects fearing that their Lord, being aged, and without wife and children, should leave them to the mercy of the first Con­queror, intreated him to come to a composition with the Legat, where­upon he began to treat, and at last yielded up diverse Castles into the hands of the King of France, upon promise that he would rule with justice and equity.

Anno Christi. 1234. the opinions of the Albingenses were much spread abroad in the parts of Spai [...], and other adjacent countries:Albingenses in Spaine. and they had Bishops among them who boldly preached against the Romish errors, and especially against Transubstantiation: where­upon a Croisado was preached against them, and a very great Army of Pilgrims being assembled together were by Pope Gregory sent a­gainst them, who slew them all with their Bishops,Persecuted and destroyed. seized of their City and plundered them, whereby (saith Mathew Paris) they re­turned rich, and joyfully into their own countries.

Also about the same time another Army of these Pilgrims went a­gainst others of them on the borders of Germany, who retiring into a Fenny place for there security, were their all slaine.

But the same yeare the Lord raised up Trancavel, the natural son of the Earl of Beziers deceased, who was encouraged,Trancavell and others defend them. and assisted by a number of valiant Captaines, as Oliver de Fumes, Bertrand Hugon de Serrelong, Bertrand de villenense, & Jordaine de Satiat, who told him that they would assist him to revenge the outrages done to his father, who was deprived of his land, betrayed, imprisoned, and poiso­ned, whereupon he resolved to recover by the sword what was so unjustly taken from him: and before the enemies had notice of his designe, he took in diverse strong Castles, so that the Popes Legate, and Bishop of Tholouse were much astonished to see these men stand up for the Albingenses, whom they supposed to have been utterly suppressed.

Then did the Popes agents cause the cross to be preach­ed, and the Bishop of Narbonne animated the people of his [Page 162] Diocess to go against them, and to make an end of the poor remain­der of the Albingenses.

An army being raised, the Popes Legate led it to Tholouse, and when the Citizens appeared upon their ramparts, he told them that he was come thither for their preservation: They thanked him, but withall told him, that if he did not instantly retire himselfe, they would give him the chase.He prevailes exceedingly. And presently came Trancavell, who so bravely, and valiantly set upon the Legates Troops, that he quick­ly overthrew them, and chased them to the very gates of Carcasson, and the Legate had much adoe to save himselfe, but that which most angered the Legate was, that Trancavell found intertainement in some part of Carcasson, so that the Pilgrims durst hardly peep out of the City gates: and when he heard of any more Pilgrims com­ming to the Legate, he used to meet them, to lay Ambushes for them, so that usually overthrowing them, their designes were marred.

This man kept the field till the year 1242. and still prevailed a­gainst all the crossed souldiers that came against him, whereupon Ame­line the Popes Legate wrote to the Pope, that if he caused not the cross to be preached in many parts of Europe, the Church was like to sustain much damage by this enemy: For (saith he) he is more cruell, and subtile, then any before him.

But a little before the Bishop of Tholouse was informed of a certain Matron, who having her children, brethren, and friends about her, was dying an Heretick, whereupon he ran to her, and found it even so by the confession of the woman her selfe: who desired to die in the faith of the Albingenses, and doubted not to be saved: then did the Bishop condemne her, and delivered her to the secular power, who presently carried her forth in the bed wherein she lay sick,A dying wo­man burnt. and burn­ed her.

Anno Christi. 1235. Earl Remund getting from Paris, returned in­to his owne country, and forbad the Citizens of Tholouse to company with the Friers predicant, and shortly after expelled them the City: And the Monastery of Narbonne belonging to the same order of Friers was pulled down by the Albingenses. Earl Remund escapes. And in June following Pope Gregory the ninth made new Inquisitors against the Albingenses in Arra­gon, and France.

Anno Christi. 1236. King Lewis of France wrote to the Pope that Earl Remund had violated the Covenants which he had made with the Church: and had cast the Bishops Clergy, and Friers out of Tho­louse, He is forced to submit. and brought Hereticks into their roomes, whereupon he desired that he might be reduced into order &c. And indeed by the power of the Pope, and King, he was forced to recall the Popish Clergy, and to banish the Albingenses, and to take upon him the signe of the Cross for the aid of the Holy land, by way of Penance for his former deeds.

The same year many imbracing the faith of the Albingenses be­beyond [Page 163] the Alps, Inquisitors were sent against them; especially one Frier Robert, who caused many of both sexes to be apprehended, and when they continued constant in the true faith,Persecution in Italy. and would not renounce the same, in the space of two or three moneths, he caused fifty of them (saith Mathew Paris) either to be burnt, or burned alive.

Anno Christi 1239. the King of France having garisoned divers Castles within the country of Albingenses who greatly oppressed them, they betook themselves to Armes, besieging those Garisons, where­upon they sent to the King of France, craving that present aid might be sent to them.1240. Then did the King of France send the Lord Iohn of Bellemont, with a great Army to aid them, who,Earl Remund prospers. comming into that Country, besieged the strong Castle of Mont-reall, and at last took it, together with divers others belonging to the Albingenses, whereby the were suppressed for that [...]ime. But the year after the Earl of Tholouse took Armes againe, and assaulted the Earl of Provence, who presently sent to the French King for aid: and the French that were about Avignion hasted to the reliefe of the Earl of Provence, which the Earl of Tholouse hearing of, he lay in Ambush in their way,Persecution in Millan. and sud­denly setting upon them, slew many, and dispersed the rest, and the war so prospered in his hand, that in a short space he recovered to his former dominion above 20. Castles from the French, and Earl of Provence, and sharply punished his Rebels.Earl of Pro­vence beaten

About the same time the Citizens of Millan, being provoked there­unto by the Pope, and Emperor: burnt many of the Albingenses, who were their fellow-Citizens.

Anno Christi 1241. The Earl of Tholouse continuing his warrs against the Earl of Provence, almost beat him out of his country,A great Perse­cution. so that the Earl of Provence was feigne to send to the Kings of England and France (who had married his second daughters) to mediate for him, and they writing to the Earl of Tholouse, obtained peace for their Father in law.

Anno Christi. 1242. the Bishops of Narbonne, and Albium, and the Seneschall of Carcasson apprehended two hundred of the Albingen­ses in a certaine Castle of Tholouse, who had Bernard Martine of Cathavell, and Raimund Agulbuerus, for their Pastors, and Ministers: All these up­on examination, adhering constantly to the true faith without wa­vering, were cruelly burnt in the flames. Vignier, Hist. Eccles. And the year following there were 224. more of them burnt likewise.Pope Urban Persecutes them▪

Shortly after, it pleased God, that great contentions arose between the Pope, and Emperor, whereby the Gospellers enjoyed some breath­ing time from their former miseries: yet, Anno Christi. 1262. Pope Vrban hearing that through that peace their Doctrine was spread exceeding­ly, he made a Decree in this tenour. Albeit we be bound by our of­fice alwaies to endeavour the rooting out the deadly poison of Hereticall pra­vity from all parts in the Christian world, yet now in a speciall manner this duty is incumbent upon us, when we perceive this plague to be growne up [Page 164] in our neighborhood through the iniquity of the times to the detriment of the Catho-Faith. That therefore the office of the Inquisition may be the more effectually ex­ecuted against the Hereticks in the province of Lombardy: and parts adja­cent, we enjoyne you, upon remission of your sins, that you doe your uttermost en­deavours for the extirpation of it, and that you see that all Papall and Imperi­all Lawes be executed against them: and for my owne part I will implore the aid of Christian Kings, and Princes, that Heaven, and Earth may be moved a­gainst them.

Anno Christi 1270 Petrus Cadarita, and Gulielmus Calonicus, were sent as Inquisitors from the Pope into the Kingdom of Arragon, Another Perse­cution. severely to punish those that had imbraced the Faith of the Albingenses, and a­mongst others they condemned Arnaldus Castlebonius the viscount, and his daughter Ermesenda, Countess of Foix: They also decreed their me­mory to be detestable, commanding their bones to be digged out of their graves, and to be burned: They also called Roger the nephew of Ermesenda, into judgement for the same crime.

Anno Christi. 1281. There was a great persecution raised against the Gospellers in the Country of Albi, by one William de gurdon, Captain and president of Carcasson under Phillip the French King, who by a procla­mation commanded all the Albingenses to be extirpated, and search­ed out of their dens and lurking holes,A cruel Edict. and all such as favoured them to be utterly rooted out, as also that the innumerable company of their children, which would not be reduced to the Catholike faith, and unity of the Church of Rome, should not be admitted unto the City of Realmont, or the territory thereof, nor to the place of any honour or of­fice: That such likewise as favoured or concealed any of them, should be banished forever from the City of Realmont, and their goods wholly confiscated, and their children be excluded from all honours and dig­nities. Yet notwithstanding the severity of this Edict, God hid and pre­served many of them even in Realmont it selfe, as Diamonds in dung­hils, though many of them fled into Arragon, and Sicily, where they might enjoy more freedom of Conscience.They increase, and are perse­cuted.

Anno Christi. 1285. Gareldus and Segarellus of Parma, and Dulcinus of Noudria, preached and spread the Doctrine of the Albingenses in Par­ma, and in many cities of Lumbardy; whereupon Pope Honorius by a pub­lick Edict condemned their Doctrine, and commanded them to be rooted out. Bzorius.

Anno Christi. 1300. Pope Boniface commanded Guido, the Inquisitor, to dig up the bodie of Hermanus (one of the Albingenses) and to con­demne and burn it in Ferrara twenty yeares after his death.

Anno Christi 1315 The Friers Inquisitors raised a great persecution against the Gospellers in Passaw in Austria, and burned many of them; who continued very constant in the faith, & took their death very chere­fully: Amongst the rest one of them that was burnt at Vienna, confessed that their were eighty thousand of them in Bohemia, and Austria at that time, their cheifest Ministers were Bartholomew Faustus, Iames Iustus, Bononatus, William, and Gilbert: of whom James was murthered between [Page 165] two walls by the Mercilesse Inquisitors; Bononatus was burned alive, and William, Gilbert, and Bartholomew were condemned after their death, the house where they used to preach was pulled to the ground, and all that adhered to them were Anathematized.

Anno Christi. 1322. Lollard Walterus (from whom our English pro­fessors were called Lollards) was taken at Collen, where he had private­ly preached,Lollard. and through Gods blessings drawne many from ignorance and errors to imbrace the truth, & persisting constantly in his opinions, he was condemned, and burned alive.

Yet notwithstanding all cruelties used against them, their enemies could never prevail to a totall extirpation of them, but they still lay hid like sparkles under the ashes, desiring and longing to see that, wich now through Gods grace their posterity do injoy, viz. The liberty to call upon God in purity of conscience, without being inforced to any superstition and idolatry: and so instructing their children in the ser­vice of God, the Lord was pleased to preserve a Church amongst them, in the middest of the Romish corruptions, as a Diamond in a dung­hil, as wheat amongst chaff, as gold in the fire, till it pleased God to disperse the Gospell in a more generall and publick way, by the Mi­nistry of Luther, and his associates and fellow-labourers in the Lord, at which time these Albingenses received with greediness the Doctrine of the Gospel, and so became more eminent in their profession of piety then they were formerly.

Laus Deo.

[Page 166] Here place the sixth Figure.

CHAP. XXV. The Persecution of the Church of God in Bohemia, which began Anno Christi 894.