Something Concerning Water in General. Of the Original, and the Reasons of the several Virtues of Springs: With an account of the Healing Spring, in Willowbridge-Park in Stafford-Shire.
AN exact Philosophical and Physical Treatise of Water in General, or in particulars; Sea, River, Rain, or Spring-Water, was never the Intention of the Writer: which though not wholly out of his road, yet out of his compass of time to perform, wanting all sorts of suitable Conveniences. But such light touches that from his own reason fell in his way to this Spring, ftands in yours to the account of some Cures it hath performed, giving incouragement to some Pen more ingenuously Industrious to give better satisfaction, of the admirable Virtues of this Well.
Hypocrates (that great Master of reason, and Prince of Physitians, (as some term him, not unworthily) affirms that Water and Fire are the two Principles of life; giving (as well he may) water the preheminence, understanding [Page 2] thereby our Radical Moisture, which is of such absolute necessity, that neither sensative or vegitive creatures subsistance can be propt without it: For by its deprivation, the one presently grows Hectical, the other Withers and decayes.
And is fitly placed before Fire, Aire, or Earth, for it extinguishes the first, changes the second into its self, and devoureth the last. The most mundane beings running the race of nature without Fire, but none without Water. As we are abundantly beholding to that Element in our composition and subsistance (having chiefest regard to the grandest power, God Almighty in the formation and upholding of all things.) So for the rectifying of the motions of the internal Machins of our Microcosmus's, and the repairing those breaches in the walls thereof that our irregularities have made. Witness the advantage we have by Water in general, but more by many particular Springs, whose use is excellent for particular Distempers: but mostly for this Spring, the occasion of what is hear made publick, since God hath been pleased so to bless it, and us with having the advantage of it, as to inforce it with such virtues, as to be a Catholicon (if rightly used) for most (if not all) Diseases in Man, or Beast.
This Spring was first taken notice of, and several [Page 3] experiments tryed with it, by the most Ingenious and true vertuosa, that Right Honourable Lady Jane Gerard, Baroness of Bromley, of Sandon in Stafford-shire, whose Charitable care and charge, in damming it out from the common Water, into which it delivered it self, (a large Pool through which the River Terne runs, taking its beginning about half a mile above it,) causing it to be divided into two large Baths; the one for Men, the other for Horses. In both which the Spring rises with great force in several places. And building a fair four-square Stone Conduit at the head of the Springs to preserve water pure and clear for Drinking: Intending also to build a Row of Rooms for the conveniency of poor people to lodge in; and an Undressing Room for persons of Higher Ranks that shall have occasion for Bathing there, declaring the Nobleness of her Spirit, in such her concern for the Publick benifit of all Diseased persons, without the least glance on self-interest: But the satisfaction of being useful to others.
This well is distant a quarter of a mile from Willowbridge Lodge (the finest seated, and best compacted house of that nature) in the parish of Ashely, two miles and a half off that famous house of Bromley in Stafford-Shire (both possessed by that Honourable Lady before mentioned, the Inheritance of [Page 4] her incomparable Son: The Right Honourable Digby Lord Gerard, Baron of Gerards Bromley, Lord of Dutton of most noble parts as well as large fortunes.) Three miles from Drayton in Shrop-Shire, five miles from Newcastle underline, six miles from Eccleshall, seaven miles from Namtwich, nine miles from Newport, nine miles from Stone, eleven miles from Stafford, all Market Towns of Note; and is Eastwardly from the Lodge, in a valley surrounded by several rises of ground. The River Terne on the North, and Willowbridge Parke on the South, on the same side lyes Ashley-Heath about a mile distant, which hath been reputed by the ablest Artist's in King Jame's time (the Learned Cambden) to be the highest ground in England, and from whence 'tis supposed this Spring comes flowing through at its breakings out, or off the face of a large Bed of good and hard Building Stone.
Before we come to the wondrous effects of this Spring, 'twill be satisfactory to some less knowing, to be informed of the original of all Springs; for whose satisfaction I declare in short, (without mentioning the many oppinions about it; and their Authors Discourses Pro, and Con, meerly to shew their mastery of misterious words.)
That all Springs undoubtedly come from the Sea, through Meandring veins and porositous [Page 5] passages of the Earth, forced through them even to or over the tops of Mountains, and to their breakings out in so many places by that great weight of water that lyes behind them, pressing them forward; and are clarified from the Sea Saltness in their passage: GoodLord Bacon. authority affirming, that pits dug near the Sea, the water that soaks into them, by that means becomes fresh.
Now the nature of the Spring, is suitable to the Qualities of that Earth, or Minerals through which by its many turnings and windings in its passage through the bowels of the Earth it runs; carrying with it either faculty, or substance, or both.
Some Springs (as this we treat of) out of the subteraneal substances attract faculties to each other, as those substances they pass through. Which solves the Question of the Curious enquirer, why the same Spring should Cure divers Diseases, and they contrary, or having but small kin to each other; as [...] any simples compounded together of natures repugnant to each other, having had their due fermentation, working so upon one another, as to become incorporated, with a concatenation of their virtues; may occasion the same Question, yet produce in its effects a rare Medicine for most Diseases. and as it is most powerful against those for [Page 6] which there was a greater quantity of suitable Simples in the composition. So is each Spring of the greater force and quicker dispatch in the Curing those Distempers, for which those Minerals it last and most run through his, proper.
The virtues this Spring last participated, is conceived to be Sulphur and Nitre by its Coldness, and driving out an internal Malady to the extream parts of the body, and its Balsamick virtue in healing it, and all sorts of Soa [...]s whatever, that it with its vertues can reach either Internal, or External.
The Taste of this Water is extreamly pleasant to most, near to that of new milk mixed with common Spring water. But can give no pleusible reason of the contrary and bitter relish it hath left on the Pallets of some few, that have given mean account thereof.
This Water is free from any manner of Tincture, but of a Christal clearness, some whereof standing but a little time in a clear Glass, which I often for satisfaction tryed, left a thick Oyly foeces all over the Glass. A quantity of it being exhaled over the fire, there hath remained a substance of the thickness and colour of Honey; but we were debilirated for making Chimical experiments of it for want of suitable Utensils: would but an Artist bestow some pains upon it, 'twould certainly require his pains, and he thereby [Page 7] find out the reasons of, and confirm those that (are not eye witnesses) may doubt its vertues.
What this Water performs, you are informed in the Epistle to Reader, by a Right Honourable, and though Female, yet a Pen of more than a Masculine strain and vivacity, proceeding from so ready a Phaucis at all times, that the richness thereof flows as much faster than she can write (though an incredible swift hand) as this Spring outdoes the belief of many. Therefore the dull account I might have given, would have seemed like flatest Water after the briskest VVine.
However before we come to the Alphabetical account of the few of those many Cures it hath done since Spring was a twelvemonth: Those persons that desire to make tryal of this VVater, that are not able to see a Physitian for better advice, are desired to follow these brief and easie rules
First, Rightly to consider the nature of their Distemper, and which way the water must work to Cure them, and to take something that may prepare their Bodies for it, to facilitate its operation; though few that methodically use the water, and have time so to do, will stand in need thereof.
Secondly, that they Drink two or three days before they Bath, and that in the morning, not overcharging their Stomachs at the [Page 8] first, but increasing▪ their draughts every morning, and using if they can, some moderate exercise (as walking) betwixt every three or four Glasses, and when they once find the water to pass freely, by urine, or Stool, they may Drink the more freely. Then whether they have any outward Distemper, or not, to Bath the whole body; the time most proper, in the Morning? and after their drinking the water, not to Dine till they find it clearly passed, which you may know by their Urines, if it be any thing coulored when you make it, for till then it will be clear, and if chiefly to work that way, to take heed of provoking sweating, which is a great hindrance of the waters passage by Urine. An [...] of ability, to drink their two or three first Glasses mixed with White-Wine.
Thirdly, for their Dyer, to be moderate, and avoid all sort of Salt Meats, and if they drink this water in the Evening, which may be done, (but not so proper as in the Morning) to eat little or no Supper, if any, that which is of light Digestion.
Fourthly, that they be not too hasty in leaving this water, but rather for a settled Cure to stay two or three dayes longer than needs, that go on too soon; and for encouragement read this ensuing and Just account as could be taken, of some of the cures done [Page 9] by this Spring. Many having made use of it, that kept their Distempers as close as they did the benefit they received by it; some stealing the advantage of Bathing in it, when night had spread its sable mantle o're the surface of our hemisphaere (thinking the Stars were no Intelligencers) thereby to hinder their Distempers well as Cures coming to appear in open day. Like the ungrateful Lepers, ten Cured, but one found returning Praise.
Aches.
1. A Taylor in Kemberton, neer Shifnall in Shrop-shire, was so diseased in his Shoulders and Armes with extream pain, that he could not work at his Trade, nor put on, or off his Cloaths without help: coming to this Well, with one with him to help him to Dress and Undress; the first night with Bathing in the water was able to do it himself: [Page 10] And stayed no longer, receiving in that small time a perfect Cure; being now as able to work as ever:
2. Elizabeth Oakely of Shrewsbury, pained in her Shoulders, Armes, Legs, indeed all over; so that she had small use of her Limbs Coming to the Well on Tuesday last, the 4th. of July 1676. and there by Drinking and Bathing the remainder of the week: On the Munday following went away perfectly Cured of all her pains.
3. Mary Wood of Ridgley, in the County of Stafford, about nineteen years of Age; having pains as the former, but with a large addition of a Scaby Scurfe all over her body, was in a weeks time Cured of all her pains; her face and body free from her Scurse, the skin remaining smooth and soft.
4. John Hancher of Knighton in Shrop-shire, middle Aged, for many years tormented with pain in his Head, with Drinking this water, and Bathing his Head therewith sometimes, was perfectly Cured.
5. Richard Scot of Pype-Yate in Shrop-shire, Aged about 50. years, Diseased with extream [Page 11] pain in his Stomach for three years space, having made use of several Physitians, but found no help, till coming to this Well; where by Drinking and Bathing he was perfectly Cured:
6. Mrs. Jane Reynolds of Mucklestone, of 60. years of Age in Stafford-shire, having an extream pain in her Shoulder, running down her Arme to her Fingers; with only Bathing it night and morning for three dayes in this water quite took away the pain.
7. Abraham Launder of the Parish of Muckleston, was troubled for twenty years with a pain and weakness in one of his Wrists that he could not bare the weight of a pound therewith; washing in this water three or four times, strengthned his Wrist and took away the pain, so that he was never troubled since.
8. Margery Russel of Offeley in Stafford-shire, Cured of Aches of her Bones and Contractions of Sinnews.
Bitings.
9. Arthur Dickson of Kendal in Westmo [...] land, Aged 69. years, having been bit [...] with a Dog in the Calf of his Leg, so that si [...] holes reach't the Bone, and in a small ti [...] wid'ned to that breadth, so that there mig [...] be two fingers buried in each of them: H [...] ving before that Accident had (but more encreased since) a great pain in that Leg an [...] Knee. In three weeks time at this well was r [...] leased, of his pain, and his Sores Cured:
Bloody Flux.
10. The VVife of Edward Hope of Mare i [...] Stafford-shire, Diseased with the Bloody Flu [...] [Page 13] four years: By this Water perfectly Cured;
Bruises.
11. Richard Scot of Pype-Yate in Shrop-shire, about 50. years of Age, being croping a Tree, received a blow on the Calf of his Leg, that so bruised it, that it became a Sore, that no Chirurgion was able to Cure, though he made use of the best he could get; and lying long under their hands. But a short time Drinking and Bathing in this water, his Leg was perfectly restored to the soundness of the other, and as well able to make use of it as ever.
12. A Servant man of Abraham Launders of Pool-hall, near Oare in Shrop-shire, that followed his VVaggon, the VVheel thereof bearing above twenty hundred weight going over his Foot, so crushed it, that he lay under the Chirurgions hands seven weeks with no other hopes of saving his Leg, but by cutting off his Foot: Till Bathing in this water three weeks; was perfectly Cured, and again able to follow the VVaggon as formerly.
Burns.
13. Samuel Jackson of Middle-wich in Cheshire, having very sorely burnt the bottom of his foot, accidentally treading with his bare foot on a red hot Heater of a Smoothing Iron, which burnt near the thickness of it into his Foot: but no Salve being able to heal it for three months time, but rather making it worse. But coming to this VVell, and Bathing in the water about ten dayes; 'tis so healed by it, that some persons it hath been shown to, are scarce able to discover, where [Page 15] it was burnt.
14. A Daughter of John Clarks of Aston in Stafford-shire▪ five years of Age; the fire catchgin in her Aporn and Cloathes, most lamentably burnt her Belly and one of her Thighs, which could not by any means be healed for a year and halfs time, till Bathed about a dozen times with water fetched from this VVell.
Collick.
51. Edward Bate of Bloor in Drayton Parish under Hales, John North of Ashley, William Gardiner of Mare, John Twyford of Aston by [Page 16] Stone; all in the County of Stafford, by this water Cured of the VVinde Collick.
16. Edward Snep of Mucklestone, Robert Cross of Winnington; both in the County of Stafford, Cured by this water of the Stone Collick,
Consumptions.
17. Sarah Plimly of the Parish of Drayton in Shrop-shire; having been (as judged) in a Consumption for twenty years and more, by Drinking this water, and Bathing, was perfectly Cured: Attested by Rohet Plimly her Father, living in the Parish and County aforesaid.
18. Mr. William Plimly of Norton in Shrop-shire about fourty years of Age; being so far entred into a Consumption, that his Stomack digested nothing that it received, accompanied with a tormenting Stich on his [Page 17] left side, occasioned at Sea; the Vessel in which he was being run on the Sands, he continued long wet by being forced to wade to save his life. For his Distemper he could receive no benefit from many Doctors of Physick that he applyed himself to; who all gave him over as irrecoverable. But coming to this VVell last Spring, Drinking thereof, and Bathing only the pained side, it removed the Stich to the other side; which he Bathing and continuing the Drinking of it, it occasioned much Vomiting, somtime gently purging by Stool, but most by Urine, each night taking a Bottle home with him, which he used as before mentioned, so many dayes as but to fill up three weeks: It cleared him of his Stich, regained his Stomach, and restored him to as good a state for health as ever. Attested by himself and Robert Plimly in Drayton Parish in Stafford-shire.
19. Mrs. Joan Maudley of Ashburn in the County of Darby: Being Lame of one of her Legs, that she could not without help get in or out of her Bed, by reason of her great pain and contraction of Sinews: being brought to this VVell the. 4th. of July 1676. and but by Bathing till the 11th. of the same month, could go so well as to have scarce a discernable halting. vide. the Contractions Cured in the Leprosies, in the third of Lameness.
Relaxation of Sinews.
20. A Boy whose name we cannot learn; his Legs hanging as if held together by threds, by reason of the weakness and laxed Ligaments and Sinews not being able to use them: In a short time were strengthned sufficiently to support his body, by Drinking and Bathing at this VVell.
Dropsies.
21. Margaret Tingle of Bloor in Stafford-shire, having her Legs much swell'd with the [Page 19] Dropsie, by Drinking of the water but once, and three or four times Bathing, quite Cured.
22. Lawrence Key of the Parish of Stoak upon Trent a ground Collier, being extreamly Hydropical, the humour so fell down into his Legs as to swell them to a great bulk: But putting them into this water the first time, he took them out; there came from all parts of them little Worms, about the bigness of Pins heads, very numerous; after them issued little drops of water: But by often Bathing brought down the swelling, stopped those little issues, and perfectly Cured him. Taken from his own mouth.
23. Mary Vicars of Knightly, Cured of a Dropsie.
24. John Plimly of Madely in Stafford-shire, of middle Age, cruelly Diseased with the Dropsie, his Belly swell'd bigger than a woman with child at her full time, and his Legs to the bigness of a reasonable mans middle and of a strange colour; brought to this VVell in March last on a Tuesday, and by the Fryday following, with Drinking and Bathing tok down the swelling, both of his Belly and Legs; and in nine dayes time Cured him [Page 20] that he was able to follow his work after his usual manner. Attested by Mrs. Jean Reynald's of Muckleston in Stafford-shire, whose Workman he was, and still is.
Kings-Evil.
29. Mary Ratcliffe of Ʋttoxiter in Stafford-shire, of middle Age; having had the Kings-Evil for twenty years, in her Face, Shoulders, [Page 21] Armes and Legs; Drank of the water, and Bathed in it but for nine dayes time, in April last, was Cured of that Disease in all the parts before mentioned: But the Issues made in hopes to help her long before, (and nature having some recourse that way) the water too hastily healed up for want of her regular Drinking of it; occasioned some Breakings out, which the water afterwards rectified by three or four dayes Drinking, and once or twice Bathing.
26. Mr. Richard Nevill, of Richards-Court near Stafford a Lawyer, having a considerable swelling under his Chin, and by the date of it thought it the Kings-Evil, coming by the VVell as he was to journey about twenty Miles farther, dipped his Pocket Hancherchief in it, and applyed it as he rode to the grieved place, which occasioned him so much ease, that he repeated it when he came back, taking one Quart of it home with him, the use of it perfectly Cured him:
27. A Daughter of Goodman Brookes in Oorelane in Shrop-shire, Aged about sixteen, Disiased with the Kings-Evil, having a swelling on her Breast of long continuance: Bathing [Page 22] in it but three times dispersed the Humour, and so perfectly Cured her, that she hath had no symptomes thereof since. The first Cure that was publickly noticed. Attested by William Shaw a neighbour to the VVell.
28. Two Daughters of Mr. Brassingtons of Karsey in Stafford-shire; one had the Kings-Evil in her Foot, so that she could not wear any Shooe, but go with it lapt about with Cloathes, and scarceable to go then: with Drinking and Bathing nine dayes was Cured. The other being suspected to have the same Distemper in her Knees, having some swellings there, stayed the same time, and both made dance by their Father at their going away, with as much agility as if never distemper'd.
29. Anne the Daughter of William Brucks, of Oore in the Parish of Muckleston in the County of Salop, Aged about fifteen; Diseased with the Kings-Evil, especially in her Breast which was swelled as big as two Breasts, yet Cured at three times Bathing. Taken from her own mouth by Mr. Andrew Dorrington of Stillinghurst in Shrop-shire.
30. Jone Grimes of Aston by Stone, being to the apprehension of others as well as her self, [Page 23] blinded by the Kings Evil: This water hath recovered her sight and Cured her of the Kings-Evil.
31. Elizabeth Cliffe of Maxfield in Cheshire, having been blind with the Kings-Evil near two years. In six weeks time Cured of the Evil; and is now able to see to follow her Trade of Button making as formerly.
32. William Rowland of Bakewell in Darby-shire, Cured of the like Distemper.
33. John Knowles of Bridgworth in Shrop-shire, Cured of the like Distemper.
French-Pox.
43. A Gentle Woman on the edge of Cheshire, whose name I forbear to mention, had the French-pox given her by her Husband; which so seas'd her secret parts that she could scarce go, and on her Throat and Pallat of her mouth that she could not well be understood what she spoke, bringing her body to a very low ebb of health, very pale and lean: but having been at this well Bathing and Drinking for three weeks, hath so recovered her health as to have a rudy Complexion, plumpness and strength of body, with great amendment of Speech. This if occasion offer'd, will be verified by Mr. Andrew Dorrington of Sillinghurst in Shropshire.
Head Scald.
35. Two Children of Morgan Shanbrooks in Shelton and over St. Chads, Salop, Cured of very grievous Scald-heads, by Drinking and Washing their Heads therewith.
36. Thomas Ward of Ehelmarton in Blackewell Parish in Darby-shire, and his Brother Edward Ward.
37. Henry Elisson and Elen his Sister of Stockholms in Cheshire, in Kunckorne Parish, all in near abouts three weeks time, by Drinking and Bathing perfectly Cured of very Sore Scald-heads. Attested by Samuel Gilbert, &c.
38. Many more of this nature, which cannot here be set down, through neglect in taking their names at their going away from the Well.
Lameness.
39. Grace Hollenshead of Worsworth in the County of Darby, Cured in few days of a Lameness of her Limbs, and Weakness of [Page 26] Body Attested by Mr. Andrew Dorrington of Stillinghurst in Shropshire.▪
40. A Stranger, whose name could not be known, brought to the Well in a Cart, so Lame that he had no use of his lower parts, the water so recovered him, that he left his Cart behind him, and went away from the VVell on foot perfectly Cured to the eye of all persons then there Attested by. Mr. and Mrs. Widlie than of Willowbridge.
Mary Phillips of Prees Parish in Shropshire Lamed of both her Legs, her Armes and Hands, and such a contraction of her Sinews in her hands, that they were kept clutched by it, having the use of neither Armes, Hands, nor Legs, not able to help her self: In a weeks time Drinking and Bathing, she could not only go, but run; and in a fortnights time Cured both Legs, Armes and Hands, of which she hath now the perfect use.
Leprosie.
42. Joseph Gennings of Crannage in Cheshire, Aged twenty years, Diseased seven of them with a Leprous breaking out all over his Body, from top to toe, not able to go, or scarce stir, the Sinews of his Fingers Tucked up that he had small use of any of them. Drinking and Bathing at this VVell a weeks time was able to go half a mile, or more to his lodging, too and fro from the Well; and all his Scabs sheld off, except some few upon his Feet. Eye witnessed by Samuel Gilbert, &c. About nine dayes after the same person went thence perfectly clear of his Leprosie, his Fingers extended, and his Body in health.
43. Edmund Hulme of Licksrith in Stafford-shire, Diseased after the same manner as the former, but that he had the use of his Limbs; in three dayes time, Drinking and Bathing, so freed him from Scabs, and kil'd the Distemper, that he would not be perswaded to stay three or four dayes longer, but went away the fourth day after his coming thither, taken from his own mouth, and eye witness by Samuel Gilbert.
Fits of the Mother.
44. Mrs. Dorothy Cotton of Apen in Stafford-shire, being much troubled with the above named Distemper, was Cured by Drinking four Glasses of this water at the Well, and taking one or two quart Bottles home with her for that use, and was never troubled since in that kind.
Palsie.
45. Richard Edwards a Black-smith in Mere-lane-end in Stafford-shire, brought to Willowbridge in March last, so Diseased by the Palsie all over his Body, that he was not able to go thence to the VVell without being Lead and supported by two men, under three hours time; having been there about three weeks, Drinking and Bathing, his Palsie was so abated, as to walk it in as short a time as most in health, without support, or resting. Attested by Mr. Charles Cotton, and Mr. and Mrs. Wildie, then living at Willowbridge.
Rickets.
46. A Child of William Lingard's three years old, troubled with the Rickets that it could never go a step, having been Bathed in, and Drank of this Water but three dayes, the fourth day could use its Legs, and go three or four yards without holding; in the sight of Samuel Gilbert and many others at the VVell.
47. A Son of Gorings, or Golling of Callow-hill in Stafford-shire, Esq that would by no means hear talk of any more than ordinary virtue this VVell had, especially of doing his Son any good, that was much weakned with the Rickets, and a great faultring of Speech: was extraordinarily amended in both by some bottles privately sent for of this water, by his mother, with which he was Bathed and of which he Drank: Which his Father marvailing at, alter'd his opinion of this Well, and fears not to be perfect now publickly by this Water, what was so happily, tho against his consent, and privately begun.
We have had many informations of this Disease being Cured in many Children, but till we are assured of the truth, we forbear to mention them.
Scurvy.
48. Mrs. Prudence Crompton of Miswich in the County of Stafford, a Gentlewoman of [Page 30] good Quality (being as willing to declare, as others, to conceal the mercies of God in this Wells Curing their Distempers) affirms, that she had the Scurvy in that height that it occasion'd her a sore Leg with four great holes in it, of dangerous consequence. That her Stomach had almost wholly lost its, digestive faculty, and that for thirty five years she Drank nothing but warm Drink, yet the Drinking of this very Cold water no way offended, but rather proved as a Cordial to her weak Stomack, recalling its lost digestion, and by Drinking and Bathing about a weeks time with this water, cleared her of her Scurvy, and Cured her Leg.
49. Edward Whitfoot of Cundever in Shropshire, near Shrewsbury, being sorely handled with the Scurvy, which occasioned Scabs and Ulcers for 7 years all over his body; Drinking of, and Bathing in the water of this Spring somewhat about a fortnights time, the latter end of June, and beginning of July, perfectly Cured him.
50. Thomas Howel, Husbandman Aged 70. living in Drayton near Shifnal in Shropshire, having had a stoppage in his Stomach, pain in his belly for half a years time, his blood being putrified, which appeared by the Scurvy he was Deseased with, and breakings out. Coming to this VVell, and Drinking and Bathing, stir'd him not till the third day, [Page 31] and then it purged him; the 4th. day also, the 6th. again, after which it bound him for 3. dayes, and in that time drove out all his Distemper to the extream parts of his body in a violent manner, working by Urine all the while, but continually Drinking and Bathing five weeks in the whole, till this present day July the 7th. 76. he is thought to be perfectly Cured of all Deseases but Old Age.
51. The VVife of William Gratewood of Croxon of Staffordshire, having her face blistered all over (as she thought) by the Scurvy: some few times washing with this water, Cured her. Attested by William Shaw.
Soares.
52. A Girl of about 17. years of Age, named Harding of Stondon in Stafford-shire, Infirmed with very sore Legs from her Infancy occasioned by the Rickets, or the small Pox, not being by purge carried off, fell down into her [Page 32] Legs which occasioned her running Soars that could not be Cured, though they used the best means they could, till at the Age above named: she was brought to this VVell, where Drinking of, and Bathing in it for a short time, was perfectly Cured. Attested by Mr. Greenwood Rector of High-Ofly.
53. VVidow Jackson of Norton Ʋnderhales in Shropshire, Aged about 70. Infirmed with a dangerous sore, so that for 40. years never skinned over, nor could she wear whole shooe or Stocken for all that time: this in a short time the water perfectly Cured. Attested by Mr. John Bradly Rector of Norton,
54. Elizabeth the Wife of Peter Gilworth of Pencle, near New-Castle under Line, had a sore Leg that issued Blood for a long time: At the first Bathing took away the pain, and stopped the bleeding, and in one dayes time healed it beyond belief; from her own mouth Tho. Tildesly Testis.
55 Elizabeth Alman of Laur Delph in Stoak by Newcastle under Line, having had a sore Leg with eight holes in it, for three years; by this water was perfectly Cured.
56 Edward Hanks a Tanner in Nampwitch: His man had a sore Leg swelled as big as two for two years time; none of the Chirurgions there being able to Cure him, this water performed it in a Months time.
57. Robert Daniel of Gayburst, had a sore [Page 33] Leg with two issues in it for seven years, which no Chirurgion could stop, or Cure: one quart of this water scaled the Bone, stopped the Issues, and healed the Soares.
58 Mary Nevil of Charms in the Parish of Ecleshall in the County of Stafford, her Legs being Scratched with a Bryer, fester'd near to a Gangreen, for which she lay under the Chirurgions hands for two years, rather made worse then better by them. This water Cured her in ten dayes time: These three last affirmed by Tho. Tildesly.
59. Henry Cotton, of Woodseas in the Parish of High-Ofly, had a sore Leg, with the addition of a pain in his right Arme; both which were Cured by this water,
60. Dorothy the Wife of Francis Moreton of Stafford, grieved with sore Legs 16. years, Cured in one months time, Testis Wal. Wilson.
Swelling.
61. A young woman of Darleston near Wem in Shropshire, having for many years such a Swelling in her Hands and Feet, that [Page 34] neither her Fingers nor Toes could be parted, without Cletts of Wood to force them open: By this water in a short time was perfectly Cured: attested by James Higgins of Newport Confectioner.
62. Goodman Shropshire in Ecleshall Parish, living on Gratewood-heath, having a gathering on his Hand that disinabled him for doing a dayes work in twenty weeks, all remedies he applyed, not breaking it, untill he came to the VVell, and holding his hand in the water not a quarter of an hour, but off comes a white skine like a Glove, leaving one blood-red behind it; putting his hand again into the water, it presently broak it, and without any more than once Bathing, taking some of the water home with him, dipping Linin Cloathes in it, and applying them to his Hand, made it as perfect as ever; from his own mouth.
63. Mary Lovet 19. years of Age, Diseased five years with a swelling in her Thighs Legs, Cured by this water,
64. Mary Charles of Bloor-heath in Stafford-shire, having her Leg and Thigh swelled extreamly, that she was forced to be Carried for a twelvemonth upon all occasions. Refused both by Physitians and Chirurgeons as paft Cure; making use of this water by Drinking and Bathing hath thrown away [...]he Crutches: and is perfectly Cured.
[Page 35] 65 Mrs. Jean Reynolds of Mucklestone in Stafford-shire, having a great pain and swelling in her Hip, which being Bathed in this water, drove it down into her Leg with extream pain and swelling there, and fiery redness: but then Drinking and Bathing in it for three dayes, it took away the pain, brought down the swelling, and reduced it to its natural colour again, perfectly Curing her.
66 Andrew Son to Thomas Powel of Drayton Shifnal in Shropshire, having his Legs swel'd as big as his Middle, occasioned by its being formerly wounded under the Calf thereof with the stub of a tree, healed up by a Chirurgion, but not to the bottom; being brought to the VVell in much pain of his Leg and thigh: Few times washing, or Bathing, broak the swelling, which issued out at one great hole three inches deep, and two in breadth. In a months time afterwards by Bathing and Drinking, brought his Leg to its just proportion, and heal'd the soar. Curing him also of a breaking out all over his body.
67 Edward Bates of Bloor in Stafford-shire, swel'd in his Body that he was not able to stoop: Four times Drinking this water, perfectly Cured him, its operation was by excessive [Page 36] purging as the nature of his Disease required. Attested by Francis Daniel of Gerards Bromley.
67. Margaret Tingle of Bloor, in Stafford-shire, having her Legs excessively swel'd. By Drinking the water but once, and Bathing three or four times; quite Cured her, Attested by the foregoing Francis Daniel.
68. A man whose name we have forgot came to this VVell this Spring with a Leg swel'd a yard about, Drinking and Bathing thereat, reduced it to the smallness of his other Leg in a small time, witnessed by Captain John Broughton of Whittington, and Mr. Lutchwood of Blake, both in the County of Stafford.
Worms.
69. A young Gentleman of Noble Quality, by two or three dayes Drinking of the water, and once Bathing, hilled the VVorms, and carryed them off by siedge; which he had in a great quantity.
[Page 37] Many persons not mention'd, were left at the well with the strangest soar legs that were ever seen; especially one woman that lay several years under Chirurgions hands at Chester without help; several of the Kings-evil, of Consumptions, Dropsies, Scurvy, &c. That are in a fair way of being by it speedily Cured.
- Aches. page 9.
- Bitings 12.
- Bloody-slux. 12.
- Bruises. 13.
- Burnes. 14.
- Collicks. 15.
- Consumptions. 16.
- Contractions. 18
- Dropsies. 18
- Kings-evil. 20.
- French-Pox. 24.
- Head-scal'd. 25.
- Lameness. 25.
- Leprosie. 27.
- Mother. 28.
- Palsies. 28.
- Relaxations.
- Rickets. 29.
- Scurvy. 29.
- Soares. 31.
- Swellings. 33.
- Ulcers, (vizd) Soares
- Worms. 36.
All persons that receive that receive benefit by the water of this Well, either for Internal, or external Distempers, are desired under their own hands, or by another from their own mouths, to leave at Willowbridge-Lodge an account thereof; the nature of their Distemper, how they used the Water, what time, and in what quaintity, how it operated, and what effects ensued; that there may be the better advantage made of it, from experience for the health of others, which is the only design of what is done, or Writ concerning this Well.
Let me further add, that it is impossible any person should receive the like advantage of this water, using it at a great distance from the Spring, as those tha [...] there make use of it, Because it being full of Volatile spirit which searches out, and into Distempers will [...] Carriage evaporate, though never so carefully made up And its Sanative Oyliness, that heals them, left on th [...] sides of the Vessels in which it is Carried. So that a standing in need thereof (that can wi [...]h any conveniency) are advised to Bath in it, as well as Drink o [...] it fresh from the Spring, e're it loose its Spirits, or by [...] [Page 39] stranding deprived of the Oyile matter that is in it.
Before I take off my Pen, some who prizes those noble kind of Creatures called Horses, may have occasion to thank me for these few Lines, more scribling in giving a short account of what Diseases this excellent water, both Cured in Horses (viz) several of the Pocky Fashions in few dayes.
Some that have had the Stone, and could not Stale. Many of the Riffe.
All sorts of Soares, Swellings, Sprains, Aches in any part.
Soar Eyes near to Blindness; some in a nights space.
The Names of the Owners of the Horses, or of those that affirmed it, being eye-witnesses, might (or may) be given if thought necessary.
'Tis thought convenient to avoid Adulteration, or abuse of the Water of this Well, by any means that may be used by many that fetch it thence to sell it, (and as we here at very dear Rates.) Least their covetousness should intice them to put a cheat upon any, by selling them either mixed, or common water for that of this Spring. We give notice that there is no price taken for any quantities at the Well: and that the Right Honourable the Lady thereof, is so carefull for persons that cannot come to the VVell, to have it without being Sophisticated; that she will for the future, cause that no water shall be fetched thence, but upon the Bottle, or Vessels: shall be in Wax when Corked up, this Seal impressed. A Saltier ☓ two Crowned Lyons for Supporters, the Crest a Maremeset. The proper Coat of Armes of her most Hopeful and Lovely Son: The Right Honourable Digby Lord Gerard, Baron of Geh ards Bromley,