Foxes and Firebrands, &c.
The Second Part.
THat the Reader may have a clearer insight into the following discourse, and understand how little the Doctrine of depriving or resisting Princes was countenanced by the first Reformers, it may not be inconvenient to entertain him with the pious and Loyal speech of the great Pillar of the Reformation, Archbishop Cranmer, whereby it will appear how averse he was either to the Jesuitical Doctrines of deposing Princes for disowning the Popes Authority, or the late Phanatical pretences of taking Arms against the King, where ho neglects his duty, or stands not to the promises and Covenants that he makes at his Coronation. The Speech is as followeth:
[Page 2] MOST DREAD AND ROYAL SOVEREIGN.
THe promises your Highness hath made here at your Coronation to forsake the Devil and all his works, are not to be taken in the Bishop of Rome's sence, when you commit any thing distastful to that See, to hit your Majesty in the teeth; as Pope Paul the Third, late Bishop of Rome sent to your Royal Father, saying, didst thou not promise, at our permission of thy Coronation, to forsake the Devil and all his works, and do'st thou turn to Heresie? For the breach of this thy promise, knowest [Page 3]thou not that 'tis in our power to dispose of the Sword and Scepter to whom we please. We your Majesties Clergy do humbly conceive that this promise reacheth not at your Highness Sword spiritual or temporal, or in the least at your Highness swaying the Scepter of this your Dominion, as you and your Predecessors have had them from God; neither could your Ancestors lawfully resign up their Crowns to the Bishops of Rome, or to his Legats, according to their ancient Oaths then taken upon that Ceremony.
The Bishops of Canterbury for the most part have Crowned your Predecessors, and [Page 4]Anointed them Kings of this Land; yet it was not in their power to receive or reject them, neither did it give them authority to prescribe them conditions to take or to leave their Crowns, although the Bishops of Rome would encroach upon your Predecessors, by his Bishops Act and Oil, that in the end they might possess those Bishops with an Interest to dispose of their Crowns at their pleasure. But the wiser sort will look to their Claws, and clip them.
The Solemn Rites of Coronation have their ends and utility, yet neither direct force or necessity; they be good admonitions to put Kings in [Page 5]mind of their duty to God, but no encreasement of their Dignity. For they be God's Anointed, not in respect of the Oil which the Bishop useth, but in consideration of their Power which is ordained, of the Sword which is authorized, of their Persons which are elected by God, and endued with the gifts of his Spirit, for the better ruling and guiding of the people. The Oil, if added, is but a Ceremony; if it be wanting, that King is yet a perfect Monarch notwithstanding, and God's Anointed, as well as if he was In-oiled. Now for the Person or Bishop that doth Anoint a King, it is proper to be done by the chiefest; but [Page 6]if they cannot, or will not, any Bishop may perform this Ceremony.
To condition with Monarchs upon these Ceremonies, the Bishop of Rome (or other Bishops owning his Supremacy) hath no authority, but he may faithfully declare what God requires at the hands of Kings and Rulers, that is Religion and Vertue. Therefore not from the Bishop of Rome, but as a Messenger from my Saviour Jesus Christ, I shall most humbly admonish your Royal Majesty what things your Highness is to perform. Your Majesty is God's Vice-Gerent, and Christ's Vicar within your own Dominions, and to see [Page 7]with your Predecessor Josiah God truly worshipped, and Idolatry destroyed, the Tyranny of the Bishops of Rome banished from your Subject, and Images removed. These acts be signs of a second Josiah, who reformed the Word of God in his days. You are to reward Vertue, to revenge Sin, to justify the Innocent, to relieve the Poor, to procure Peace, to repress Violence, and to execute Justice throughout your Realms, for Presidents on those Kings who performed not these things. The old Law shews how the Lord revenged his quarrel, and on those Kings who fulfilled these things, he poured forth his Blessings in [Page 8]abundance. For example it is written of Josiah in the Book of the Kings thus, Like unto him there was no King before him, that turned to the Lord with all his heart, according to-all the Law of Moses, neither after him arose there any like him. This was to that Prince a perpetual fame of dignity, to remain to the end of days.
Being bound by my Function to lay these things before your Royal Highness, the one as a reward, if you fulfil; the other as a judgment from God, if you neglect them. Yet I openly declare before the Living God, and before these Nobles of the Land, that I have no Commission to denounce your Majesty deprived, [Page 9]if your Highness miss in part, or in whole of these performances; much less to draw up Indentures between God and your Majesty, or to say you forfeit your Crown with a clause, for the Bishop of Rome, as have been by your Majesties Predecessors, King John, and his Son Henry of this Land. The Almighty God of his mercy, let the light of his countenance shine upon your Majesty, grant you a prosperous and happy Reign, defend you, and save you; and let your Subjects say, Amen.
God save the King.
[Page 10]After his Majesties Coronation, and the death of King Henry the 8th. several of the foreign Protestant Clergy wrote to his Son King Edward, and to that Honourable Councel (whom his wise Father had carefully nominated for to instruct and advise that hopeful Prince) amongst whom Mr. John Calvin was one, as appears by his Letters to Archbishop Cranmer, yet extant, and Printed amongst others of his Epinies, in which he offers his service to assist that King in the Reformation of the Church of England; but King Edward and his Council refused his proffer.
The parties instrumental for disswading of this Prince from these offertures of Calvins, and the reasons why he was not admitted to be one in this Assembly were not known, until about the 9th. year of his Siller Queen Elizabeth her Reign; about which time Sir Henry Sidney some time Lord Deputy of Ireland, and one of her Majssties Honourable Privy-Council, having then the liberty to view the Papers of State within her [Page 11]Majesties secret Closet, he happen'd to find a Letter directed to the Bishops of Winchester, and of Rochester, These two Bishops were Gardner and Ponett. dated from Delph, which he in a manuscript of his own afterwards, in the custody of the most learned Dr. James Ʋsher, late Primate of Armagh, which was after transcribed by Sir James Ware, and is now entred in a manuscript of that Knights, number xliiii. Running in this manner following:
Memorandum taken out of Sir Henry Sidney his Book, called the Romish Pollicies, numb. 6. pag. 37. in fol. a manuscript, with Archbishop Ʋsher.
Her Royal Highness giving me the freedom to search the affairs of State ever since her Royal Fathers denying the Jurisdiction of the See of Rome, Sir Henry Sidney's words amongst other of his discourses within this Book. amongst others of this sort, I found a Letter directed to the Bishops of Winchester and Rochester; part of the Contents being for my purpose, be these, as they were translated out of the Low-Dutch.
Edward (Son of Henry the Heretick King of England) by his crasty and politick Councel hath absolutely [Page 12]brought in Heresie, which if not by art or other endeavours speedily overthrown, and made infamous, all other foreign Hereticks will unite with your new Heresies now amongst your selves lately planted, and so have Bishops as you have; and it is the opinion of our learned men now at Trent, that the Schisms in England by Edward's Council established, will reclaim all the foreign Sects unto their Discipline, and thereby be one body united. For Calvin, Bullinger and others have wrote unto Edward to offer their service to assist and unite, also to make Edward and his Heirs their chief Defender, and so have Bishops as well as England; which if it come to pass that Heretick Bishops be so near, and spread abroad, Rome and the Clergy utterly falls. You must therefore make these offertures of theirs odious to Edward and his Council. Receive N. S. and E. L. from Rotterdam, their lessons are taught them, take you their parts, if checked by the other Hereticks; for these be for Rebaptizing, and not for Infant-Baptism: Their Doctrine is [Page 13]for a future Monarchy upon carth after death, which will please the ordinary kind well, and dash the other that rageth now amongst you. Reverend Fathers, it is left to you to assist, and to those you know are sure to the Mother-Church. From Delph the 4th. Ide of May, Anno Christi, 1549.
Her Highness one day discoursing of matters in this kind,Queen Eliz. opinion at the sight of this Letter. I told her of this Paper, at the sight whereof she was startled; the Letter being amongst her Sisters papers, which caused her to express these very words. I had rather than a years Revenue, that my Brother Edward and his Council had seen this Letter; nay rather than twice my Revenue I had seen it sooner, and so caused me to lay it where I found it.The Councils opinion. The Council upon her Highness discourse concluded that Calvin would have established Episcopacy beyond Seas, had he been consulted herein, and that the hindrance of this offerture caused much animosity between [Page 14]Reformers. Having no more of Sir Henry's words of this nature in this Memorandum, we shall go forward in the Memorials of other learned men of this kind.
You have seen already our Narrative of Faithful Comin and Tho. Heth, formerly mentioned in the Book entituled Foxes and Firebrands; Printed at London, anno 1680. and also the Life and Death of George Browne, with the Confession of Philip Corwine; which Confession was formerly written by John Garvey, some time Primate of all Ireland, which we have already put out to publick view. We shall therefore also lay before you the Confessions of two great Penitents, viz. the one of Samuel Mason, some time bred up with the Jesuits at Paris; the other of Malachias Malone a Carmalite Friar; who were converted to the Protestant Church of England, the former being converted an. 1566, the latter, an. 1584. the former being a memorial of that Learned Statesman Sir Henry Sidney, as also written by John Garvey; the latter a memorial [Page 15]of that Eminent Statesman, the Lord William Cecill, as follows.
Samuel Mason his Conversion to the Protestant Church of England now established by her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth, our Gracious Sovereign Lady of England, France and Ireland; together with his Speech in the Cathedral of Christ-Church, Dublin, June the 6th. 1566. and also his Narrative presented to Sir Henry Sidney on the 25th. of August following, being made before him, being then Lord Deputy, the Archbishop, Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Dublin, formerly written by John Garvey, Primate of Armagh, and Dean of the said Cathedral.
It is usual upon Confession to shew some sorrow for sins committed, The Converts Speech. and also to promise an amendment for the future. But that sorrow without a performance is the committing of Sin afresh, besides the committing of the sin of lying, when the party performeth it not: These sorts of sorrows and promises be odious both to God and Man. But my Confession is [Page 16]not Auricular, as I publickly here declare it, therefore I hope to be the more credited; and it would redound to my disgrace from henceforth, to dissemble either with God or Man: So that I shall not make a rash vow, that I will not return to my evil ways, yet with Prayer I shall seek my God for his assistance, lest I be led into temptation, reserving within my self this saying in my mind: Teach me, O Lord, to number my days, that I may apply my heart unto Godly wisdom.
It was not want drove me hither, for had I complyed at Paris, where I abode about eight years, I might have been entertain'd; yet my frailties were such, I here openly declare, for two years and upwards, before I departed from thence, I dissembled with the Society called the Society of Jesus. But spending my time partly in learning the Language of that Kingdom; and also by searching the Records and Libraries of the Ʋniversities there, I found out variety to disswade me from that impious way of living. Therefore I have come hither to acknowledge both mine ignorance and [Page 17]perversness when I was of a contrary opinion for to embrace the truth, which I have for a long time scandalized and rejected, hoping all here present will be pleased, as Christians, to take this my Recantation for a real and true one. So the Lord of his mercy recall Sinners to his Church duly from henceforth. Amen.
After this Recantation of Mr. Masons, Sir Henry Sidney then Lord Deputy took him for one of his Chaplains, after which Adam Loftus after Primate of Armagh, upon the resignation of Hugh Corwine Archbishop of this See; Adam our Primate resigning up the Primacy to succeed Hugh Corwine in this Diocess, he preferred this Convert to the Parish of Finglas, two miles distant from this City of Dublin.
After the Recantation of this Convert upon the Feast of St. Bartholomew, soon after his Conversion, he presented Sir Henry Sidney with this Narrative following.
The covetousness of the Bishop of Rome for these several hundred of [Page 18]years past have increased more than ordinary:The Converts Narrative after his Speech given to Sir Henry Sidney then Lord Deputy of Ireland. First their covetousness caused them to forget God, by neglecting his Will and Commandments. Secondly, it hath caused them to accept of the earthly pleasures of this world, which Satan offered to our Saviour, but Christ rejected his offerture by rebuking him, and shewed that he cared not for the riches therein; by his saying, My Kingdom is not of this World, hath not only caused the Bishops of Rome to assume to themselves the Titles due to Emperors, Kings and Princes; but above all, to assume the name of God to them and their Successors, which, in a word, is Blasphemy. At Paris, during my stay there, I improved my self by searching the Records, and viewing the Books in that University; amongst which, I lighted upon the Clergy of Leige, their Apology to Pope Paschal the Second, as touching the Oath of Allegiance, which he had granted against the then Emperor, Henry the Fourth. The substance of this Clergies Apology being thus translated out of French.
[Page 19]Who can justly blame a Bishop for favouring his Lords party,The Clergy of Leighs, their apology against Pope Puschal the Second, circa ann. 1105, or near that time. to whom he oweth Allegiance, and hath promised by Oath to observe it. No man doubts but that Perjury is a grievous offence; God only sweareth and repenteth not, because wisdom keeps the commandment of Gods Oath. But for us who often repent that we have sworn, we are forbidden to swear. If a man swears, God enjoyns him to perform his Oath unto the Lord, which is not unknown to those that rend the Kingdom and the Priesthood by a new Schism, and with their upstart Traditions promise to absolve from all sins; such as incur the crime of Perjury towards their Sovereign, never reading what God said to Zedekias, (by the mouth of Ezekiel the Prophet) who had committed Perjury against his Sovereign Nebuchadonozor; He that hath broken the Covenant, shall he escape? Which St. Hierome expounds thus. Hence we may learn, that we ought to keep touch even with our enemies, and not consider with whom, but by whom we have sworn.
[Page 20]Considering on this Apology, my soul was smitten within me, and such a terror seized on my Conscience, that I said within my soul, surely that if Paschal was thus reproved by this Clergy so long since, how wicked are his Successors grown by this time.
At this time,Pope Pius the 4th. his contrivance against the Protestants of England, anno 1560. viz. anno 1560 a strict Bull issued out of Pope Pius the 4th. commanding all the Learned of the several Orders of that Church to find out proofs and reasons for perswading of Subjects to break their Oaths of Allegiance with their Kings and Princes; and to gloss this device the better, he dispenced with several of the learnedst of the Franciscans, Dominicans, and of the Society of Jesus, to Preach amongst the Protestants of England; nay with some of them, to marry, saying that the Marriage of England established by the Queen and her Clergy was no Marriage, but plain Heresie. All these so dispenced were to give monthly intelligence; if from France, to the chief Cities there; if from Spain, or from other Territories, to those places; and for fear any of [Page 21]these should be disswaded from their Orders, others were sent to discover them, if they found their inclinations so bending, before they came to be fully resolved to turn; this, one Andrew Mr. Gibbons a Scotch Frier assured me, who was sent for this purpose, and betrayed one John Gyles, who was then a recanting at the City of Glocester; but Gyles ingeniously confessing all the contrivance, and desiring proof might be brought who was his accuser. Andrew Mr. Gibbons was summoned to appear, and to proceed, but Andrew suspecting that himself was catch'd, straitly seemed to go, but pretending to go into his Lodging for some papers to give the Bayliffs of Glocester, went out the back-way, and so took Horse, and fled into France, and came to Paris; what became of John Glyes, I did not enquire.How the Penitents thoughts were when he searched after these writings first, and how he altered his opinion after
Still being desirous to search after all Indulgences, Absolutions and Dispensations for Oaths, Allegiance, and for Rebellions, to strengthen the Church of Rome, supposing thereby to have made my self a Fortune, and [Page 22]to be esteemed well of by the Clergy and Laity of Rome. I for the most part made it my purpose to collect all things of this nature, these being some of my Collections.
Paul the Third granted an Indulgence for Harlots to use their bodies with any men,Paul the 3d. his Indulgence for Whoring and Adultery for money. and to trade in this Sin, as I found by his Bull in the third year of his Papacy, granted upon the pretence that the flesh being so unruly a member, could not be mortified, although several Laws had been made against those evil sins; yet the Sin was to be excused with those who could not consist in the state of Chastity, provided the man gave a certain fee to the spiritual See, and that the woman paid a yearly Revenue also, and entred her name in the Registry to pay her fees accordingly, which was to be gathered weekly; this was pretended to go for the redemption of Slaves and Prisoners of the Roman Religion, either with Turk or Heretick. Every House or Stewes appointed for this purpose, to have an Iron-Trunk or Box fastned in the Wall of these [Page 23]Stewes, wherein the party thus inclined, was, before he could be permitted to take his pleasure to put in his summ through a slit in the said Box: And three Testees were to wait on these Houses weekly, to take out what summs there were thrown in, whereof one third part was for the House, the Whores were to have another third part, and the See of Rome another third part; at this time it being calculated that the Registry contained in Paul the Thirds days, 45000 Harlots that paid him Tribute, and that by Pius Quintus his Papacy it encreased to the number of 64360 Harlots, paying him weekly Tribute; and all those who went to any secret Whore, were to be excommunicated, if they were so catch'd, until he had paid seven-fold the rate of the Whore's permitted, which was seven Julies so permitted.
An Indulgence was granted by this Pope for to kill any that followed Luthers opinion,The Popes Pardon for killing a Lutheran. a thousand years pardon for his Sins, besides the honour to be enrolled by the name of Rome's faithful Souldier.
[Page 24] This Pope Paul by his Bull entred at Paris runs,Pope Paul's Indulgence to Rebels. &c. Englished thus; Whereas we find the Hereticks now concord in the Administration of the Sacrament of the body of Jesus, We grant full remission of Sins to those our Sons of our Mother Church that shall stop or hinder their union amongst Hereticks.
We also absolve all Subjects from their Oaths of Allegiance unto their Heretick Kings, Princes, or States, as they be enemies unto the holy See of St. Peter: All men from their tye of Matrimony with Heretick Wives, or Wives from their Heretical Husbands: Also all Children from their Parental obedience either to an Heretick Father or Mother. Also We absolve all Parents not giving to their Heretick Children their Benediction or Portion, either to give their Estate to the next Catholicks of the Mother Church a-kin to the Family, or to give or to dispose of it to any other persons use.
Paul the Third, the Servant of the Servants of Jesus Christ, and to Fernesius our Trusty and Faithful Son and Champion for the Holy See of St. Peter; [Page 25]the Blessings of the Holy Trinity attend on the Person of our Wellbeloved Son Fernesius, of St. Peter, of St. Paul, of the Mother of God: The Benediction of the holy Host of Heaven, of the Arch-Angels, Angels, Saints, Patriarchs, Prophets, Apostles, and holy Martyrs assist thee, and those fighting under thee, in our holy Cause:Paul the 3d. his Indulgence granted to Fernesius, who went to fight against the Protestants in Germany. We grant to thee our Son and Faithful Souldier Fernesius, a true and plenary Pardon for all thy sins committed, or to be committed by thee, or any other fighting under thee, fighting for the holy Cause of St. Peter our Predecessor of this See of Rome. We will and command the Arch-Angels, and Angels, to carry into Heaven the Souls of those our Souldiers that shall be slain in Battel for our Holy See of Rome (fighting in so just a cause) immediately upon their Expiration not suffering or enduring the least pain of Purgatory. Also an Absolution of sins of one hundred years, to all the Children of those dying, or being slain in this our holy Cause, against the Hereticks and Enemies [Page 26]of our Holy See of St. Peters, 4th. Ide June, in the third year of our Pontif.
Julius the Third continued the Council of Trent; Beneventum that Archbishop upholds so doing. and we find in the Universities of Paris a piece of a Letter of this Julius written to Casa the Archbishop of Beneventum; wherein he returns him thanks, and absolves this Bishop, for a Book written by this Casa defending the sin of Sodomy: Which I do heartily lament that I took not a Copy thereof, but can assure that I saw that Letter, and the Books name specified therein, for Toleration, and defence of Sodomy.
The Jesuits of Paris their opinion was to the Council of Trent in the year 1559.How the Jesuits to ingratiate themselves with the Pope, and to mislead the Commonalty, make him and his acts above God and the holy Scriptures. (just at my coming thither) that the Pope and the Council were above all that is called God, and of greater force than the Scripture was; for which opinion one Veratus returned this Society thanks from the Council; and so it was upon the Jesuits opinion voted in that Council, that [Page 27]their Acts and the Popes were beyond the Law, the Prophets and the Scriptures.
The Messenger between the Council of Trent and the Jesuits of Paris, Ludovick de Freake, the Council of Trents Messenger between them and the Jesuits of France, who brought them these Instructions to destroy the Church of England from Beneventum the Archbishop, named Casa. was Ludovick de Freake, formerly a Priest in England, who brought with him up to Paris, from the Council, several kind of Indulgences and Instructions for that Society to undertake, and grant, and teach: Part of the Instructions were thus, to take notice of the confessions of the people of France, especially of the Nobles and Gentry; and in case they suspect any thing detrimental to the Holy See of Rome, then to confer with three or more Confessors of the suspition, and so to take memorandums of certain questions to be asked of the party so suspected the next time.
Also to converse with the Noblest, and to discourse variously until they find which way he is inclinable most, and to please them accordingly in their discourse; and in case any of you be, or chance to be any of their Confessors, ye are to take memorandums [Page 28]of things doubtful and suspitious, and at the next Confession to urge them to those parties then confessing, by which any three or more are to consult, and give the See of Rome and her Councils intelligence more or less, that the Mother-Church might be informed, and all evil prevented that is or shall be intended against her.
You are to associate with all strangers Heretical,This Dispensation of the Pope hath beguiled many wise men in England. as well as Christian Catholick; if Heretical, to be civil, and not to discover your profession; and for the better procurement of these designs designed, or to be accomplished, ye may with leave of any three of the Society be permitted to wear what dress or habit you think convenient, provided the Society hear from the party so dispenced. Any of you thus dispenced with, may go with the Heretick to any of their heretical Meetings permitted by Acts or Contracts of Peace between Princes: by this contrivance ye may both inform the Mother-Church, and in case any of you be employed to assist her to go into any of the heretical Villages [Page 29]or Territories, you will be the more able to serve the holy See of St. Peter, and keep your selves from suspition.
In case any of ye be thus employed,The Popes Dispensation with Impostors to Preach all Doctrines in England, to confound that Church. ye are dispenced with either to go with Hereticks to their Churches, or as you see convenient. If you own your selves Clergy-men, then to Preach, but with caution, till ye be well acquainted with those Hereticks you converse with, and then by degrees add to your Doctrine by Ceremonies, or otherwise, as you find them inclinable. If ye be known by any of the Lay Catholicks, you are to pacify them by saying secret Mass unto them, or by acquainting other Priests (who are not able to undertake this work) with your intentions, who doth generally say Mass unto them. If the Lay men be of any Parts, or of Wit, you may dispence with them also, reserving the same provisoes, and thereby he may acquire an Estate, and be the more able to serve the Mother-Church.
In case they scruple in taking of Oaths, you are to dispence with them, [Page 30]assuring them that they are to be kept no longer than the Mother-Church sees it convenient.The Popes manner of dispensing with Oaths, a good memorandum for Protestant Juries to recollect, and to consider. Or if they scruple to swear on the Evangelist, you are to say unto them, that the Translation on which they swear, his Holiness the Pope hath annull'd, and thereby it is become Heretical, and all as one as upon an ordinary Story-Book.
In case in strange Countreys, ye be known by Merchants or others trading or travelling thither, for to strengthen your designs the more for your intention, you are dispenced with to Marry after their manner, and then ye safely may make answer, that Heretical Marriage is no Marriage, for your Dispensation mollifies it so, that at the worst it is but a Venial Sin, and may be forgiven.
Ye are not to Preach all after one method,The Popes contrivance to demolish the Protestant Church of England. but to observe the place wherein you come. If Lutheranism be prevalent, then Preach Calvanism; if Calvanism, then Lutheranism; if in England, then either of these, or John Husses opinions, Anabaptism, or any that are contrary to the Holy See of [Page 31]St. Peter, by which your Function will not be suspected, and yet you may still act on the interest of the Mother-Church; there being as the Council are agreed on, no better way to demolish that Church of Heresy, but by mixtures of Doctrines, and by adding of Ceremonies, more than be at present permitted.
Some of you who undertook to be of this sort of the heretical Episcopal Society,This Dispensation shews how the Pope for his purpose dispenceth even with the Protestant Church of England it self for her gain. bring it as near to the Mother-Church as you can; for then the Lutheran Party, the Calvinists, the Anabaptists, and other Hereticks will be averse thereunto, and thereby make that Episcopal Heresie odious to all these, and be a means to reduce all in time to the Mother-Church.
You are further (during the time you take these shapes on you) to observe thus much of the rules of the Mother-Church; This Dispensation shews that the Pope and his Emissaries be the Factions between the King, Parliament and Subjects. the Mother-Church disowneth the Regal Power to be her Superior, especially the Heretical Powers Regal, or otherwise. Upon this ye are to take these measures: You must bemone your Followers and Auditors, [Page 32]saying, Are not we persecuted for righteousness sake? What Flesh and Blood can endure this! We be more zealous against the Pope than they, and yet we be persecuted. By these means your cotrivances will light on those ye lead along, and not on your selves. This will advantage you much; hang you or burn you they dare not; but their perpetual acts against the party that follow you, will take off the late severities they lay on us, in saying, We burnt the Hereticks their Ancestors, and so at last bring that odium upon that Heretical Church in England, which they have thrown on us. And as you will be more admired by the people, so the Hereticks will asperse that Heretical King and his Church as little differing from us. These Instructions I am commanded to recommend unto you, as being approved by his Holiness Julius the Third, your Supream Father, and his wholsome Council to be handled and performed to the utmost of your Powers, Wealth, Parts, Learning and Capacities for the good of the Mother-Church. Dated the [Page 33]fourth Ide of November, 1551.
Beneventum.
Upon these consultations I was amazed to behold these and other the contrivances that hath been contrived against the Church of England ever since King Henry her Royal Highness Father fell from the See of Rome, How the Converts contrary design turned to his Conversion. but yet duly taking memorandums of these things for my curiosities sake, at first then designing to have practised these instructions at last seriously pondering upon these devices, and upon several others of this kind (which would contain a large volume to set them out to publick view,) I pretended to come over hither to practice the same; and to colour my feigned intention, I said I took these memorandums for my instructions, and so left Paris in the month of April, anno 1566. and landed at Dover the month following; from whence I came to this Kingdom, where since I have satisfied the Archbishop and the rest of my Brethren the Clergy, by my last confession publickly in this City of Dublin: Yet for further [Page 34]assurance of my confidence in the Protestant Faith of England now established by her Highness and her Parliament of this Nation. I Samuel Mason being strucken in years, not knowing how soon it may please the Almighty God to take me from hence, as also to take off all evil Calumnies, Aspersions and Suspitions of me Samuel Mason, as if I should dye in the Roman Church. I do humbly lay this my Narrative before your Lordship, as Chief under her Highness in these her Dominions of Ireland, for a true and signal testimony of my fidelity to her Highness her Government both in Church and State. Dated at Dublin the 24th. day of August, 1566.
Samuel Mason.
I was the more desirous to keep this Memorial of this Convert,John Garvey his design for preserving of this memorandum. by reason the Speech (for the declaring of her Conversion) was spoke in my Cathedral: I being but the year before by her Royal Highness preferred to that Deanery, as appears by her Majesties special Letter now on Record, [Page 35]and also I have inserted this amongst others of my Diaries to remain hereafter with other of the memorandums concerning this Deanery, desiring my Successors to follow the same for the publick benefit of their Successors, and to be produced as time shall serve for their several occasions most opportunely and fit.
The Convert continued not fully two years in his Parsonship or Parish before he died,The Converts death and burial. my self preaching his Funeral Sermon, where several with sorrowful tears lamented the loss of so true a Penitent, choosing this Text suitable for his Conversion: Blessed are they that die in the Lord, &c. whom all must suppose did, as appears by his hearty Recantation and declaration aforesaid: He was buried in his Parish at Finglas, two miles distant from Dublin, on the Feast of St. Bartholomew, Ann. Dom. 1568.
In the year of our Lord 1584. Sir John Perrot, then Lord Deputy of Ireland, taking his Progress into the Province of Connaught, there came to his Lordship a Friar Carmelite named [Page 36] Malachias Malone, by some called O Malone, (Brother unto Mr. William Eughter) who had been of that Order about 36 years, even from the beginning of King Edward the Sixth's Reign; this Malachias, and Sir John, then having had great conference together in private. After which, this Friar (in the face of a whole Congregation then met together in St. Stephens Church of Gallway) renounced the Pope's Supremacy, and also the Popish Religion.
At this Recantation he first entred into the Church in his Friars Weeds,The Friar's actions and speech upon his Conversion. saying to the Congregation these words, Peccavi contra Deum Creatorem meum, contra Reginam, & contra Leges Regnorum ejus. Then taking off his Friar's Weeds, he said, Away with these Cloaks of Sin, I will cloath my self with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Now, good people, bear witness, from henceforth I conform my self to the Religion established in these her Majesties Dominions, by her Majesty and her Parliaments of England and Ireland.
[Page 37]At this time several of the Roman Catholick Friars and Jesuits lurking about that City of Gallway, Sir John Perrott's care of Malachias. had a design against this Convert, which coming to Sir John's ears, he would not permit him to remain in that Province, but caused special care to be taken of him, and so brought him before to Dublin, where he was carefully looked after, and lay amongst my Lord Deputies Servants; the said Lord allowing unto him a certain allowance for his maintenance during his Government in that her Majesties Realm of Ireland.
Sir John being this year absent from Dublin three months and odd days, returned thither with this Friar upon the 11th. of October following, and so gave her Majesty and the Lords of the Council here an account of this his Progress; amongst the rest, this of Malachias was also.
Upon St. Simon and Jude's Feast, being the 28th. of October, and in the same month of his return to Dublin, Sir John, the Archbishop of Dublin, Lord Chancellor, the Primate of Armagh, [Page 38]the chief Judges and others of her Majesties Council assembled in the Castle of Dublin. This said Malachias (as appears by their Letters unto the Lords here of her Majesties Council) having acquainted Sir John and that Council of several matters and discoveries which he had to reveal unto them, he was called for to appear before them, at which time he declared how he had been a grievous Traytor to God, and to her Majesty, and there declared this declaration in writing following; having got Mr. Fenton to write the same, that the Lord Deputy and Council might read it the easier.
I Malachias ô Malone, born at Bullintobber in the County of Mayo,The Friars Confession before the Lord Deputy and Council of Ireland. Anno Christi 1522. in the year of our Lord 1548. upon the Assumption of our Blessed Lady I received the Order of Mount Carmel, generally called Friars Carmelites, and became a Member of that Order of the Convent of Ballinsmale in the said County, continuing therein for the space of 12 years before I departed from thence. Afterwards in the year 1561. I [Page 39]journied towards Cecil in Spain, in the company of Tho. Lynch, Garrott Fitz-Gerald of my own Order; also in the company of my Cousin James Malone, John Bourke, Philip Corwine, and of Thady ô Bryan, who in the City of Sevell took on them the Order of St. Francis. I tarried at that City about two years, and from thence journied into France, then coming into the City of Paris, I met with several of my Countrey-folks, who civily used me; At that time I was employed by Ludovic Freake, one of the Order of Jesus, for to carry over certain papers of Instructions unto Shane ô Neale, then stirring in the Province of Ulster, which I safely delivered unto him from Father Freake. The Contents thereof were, to set up his Title, which his Ancestors claimed in that Province, and not to make any conditions with the English, unless it were upon great advantage, or in great extremity; for France and Scotland should both assist him, when he had raised up that Countrey.
After I had received these Instructions, he produced the Bishop of [Page 40] Rome's Bull of Indulgence, and liberty unto all those who undertook to succour and assist that Mother-Church of Rome: The Contents be as these:
PIUS the Servant of the Servants of God, Pius Quintus his Bull for Anathematizing Protestants, that the Undertakers for the advancement of Rome might not scruple any thing when they are indulged. &c. Whereas we have found and daily find Heresies increasing in several Colonies, Principalities, Realms and Countreys subject to the sacred See of St. Peter our Predecessor, and they falling from, and deserting our Jurisdiction with their blasphemous and railing writings against Ʋs, our Ceremonies, and Apostolick Jurisdictions and Priviledges granted unto Ʋs and our Succcessors from God, and formerly generally acknowledged by Emperors, Kings and Princes to be Ours, and our Predecessors due and right.
We therefore in the Name of the holy Trinity, of the Blessed Mother of God, the Virgin Mary; of St. Peter, of St. Paul; in the name of the holy Host of Heaven, of the Arch-Angels and Angels, of the holy Apostles, Saints, and blessed Martyrs, do Anathematize all Hereticks lying, trading or travelling in or amongst the same, wheresoever [Page 41]dispersed over the face of the whole Earth. We further will and authorize the Wise and learned of our Ecclesiasticks, expert in divine Science, to labour, endeavour and devise all manner of devices to be devised, to abate, asswage, and confound those Heresies repugnant to our sacred Laws, that thereby these Hereticks might be either recalled to confess their Errors, and acknowledge our Jurisdiction of the See of Rome, or that a total infamy may be brought upon them and their posterities by a perpetual discord and contention amongst themselves, by which means they may either speedily perish by God's wrath, or continue in eternal difference, to the reproach of Jew, Turk, Heathen, nay, to the Devils themselves. Given at Rome the 6th. Ide of May, Primo Pontif.
The Copy of this Bull of Indulgence and Commission was translated unto me into English by a learned Penman named John Warham Nephew to William Warham some time Archbishop [Page 42]of Canterbury. After that I had got a Copy of this Bull, Mr. Freake and I discoursed concerning the same, because I thought it impossible to overthrow the Protestants, unless it were by force of Arms; but he replied that it was easy-to do it otherwise,Rome's several sorts of Dispensations for to ruine the Church of England. by telling me that this Bull dispenced with the Devisor for devising of new Tenents, Doctrines and Covenants; nay, that it dispenced to marry after an Heretical Law; provided that the device intended was to promote the advancement of Rome, and that Marriage, as they performed it, was no Marriage, but a venial sin: Then I made answer, In case these men be taken with this kind of life, and so totally fall from Rome, what will you do then?
He told me after this manner,How Rome gets all her Intelligence and Knowledge, secrets of Kings, and their Councils. to the best of my remembrance, that those who undertook to serve the Mother-Church, entred their names in the chief Convents of their several Orders, and that in their Commissions they have several names, three or four, in case they be discovered, [Page 43]and that when they have intelligence, they may fly to another place, and still keep correspondence with the Convents.
I demanded of him which fort had the granting of these Licences.
He told me that Pope Pius had granted a Commission to the Wisest and most Learned sort of the Orders of St. Dominick, St. Francis, A demonstration which of these Orders generally be by the Pope Indulged to put false Doctrines amongst us Protestants. and of his own Order, of the Society of Jesus, to keep a general correspondence, every quarter at least, with the Convents of these Orders, which testimonies were to be shewn upon these general Assemblies, as signal demonstrations of their fidelity to the Church of Rome. I told him that it was worth my journey coming out of Ireland for to travel, because I had learned much experience, and should be cunning for the future.
To this he said,How Popish Zeal is revenged on the Protestant. you see how we be by the Hereticks put to our shifts every day more then other; therefore we must try our skill to be even with them.
I demanded of him, what could it [Page 44]avail the Church of Rome to set up so many Heresies, seeing that the Devisers dare not openly acknowledge the Church of Rome's Supremacy, but be forced to rail at the Pope, and at her.
He replied,A pretty Cheat for disguised Papists to rail at Rome, and yet be of the Church of Rome. when they rail at Rome, and their hearts be contrary, it is no sin; they may mean Rome, and name it, as it was in the ancient Roman days; and also the word Pope, for that word in Latin Papa, is as much as to say, a Bishop; so that he may mean one of their Heretick Bishops, and that these mental railings advanced the See of Rome, and furthered their designs in several respects.
This shews how Rome by her Phanaticism hindreth uniformity in the Church of England.First, as it made Heresies and Schisms amongst Hereticks, so it hindred uniformity in the Church of England.
The Papists all plead they can turn Protestants, by reason there are so many sorts of them.Secondly, that it was a great advantage for preventing Roman Catholicks to turn away from their Principles.
[Page 45] Let Dissenters observe this, and how the Papists came to cast the late Plot, begun Anno 1678. upon them.And lastly, when ever the Church of Rome shall have a design to destroy Heresie, she will never want intelligence, having one or more of these wise men amongst these several sorts of Hereticks.
Then I asked, how shall we be able to know her Majesties secrets, and the intents of the Church of England?
He said,A warning for Protestants not to match with Papists, or to keep Popish Servants. We have also dispenced with that, and several of that Church have either a Roman Catholick Wife, or the Wife a Roman Catholick Husband, or they, if both Hereticks, perhaps keep Roman Catholick Servants, which are bound to obey the Mother-Church when ever commanded.
I entreated Mr. Freake to give me a Copy of the Heads of the directions that were given unto those who were licenced to perform what this Bull had permitted; which was thus:Observe how in Cromwell's days Marriages were altered for this purpose. They were permitted to marry upon two accompts; First, because they might not be suspected; Secondly, Heretical Marriage is no Marriage, [Page 46]if their Matrimonial Ceremonies be contrary to the Romish Orders.
Several of these so licenced are to take divers Callings according to their inclinations,Thus Rome taught Dissention in the late usurped times. yet to Preach and Expound; and in case they be asked upon what grounds they came by this Science, they must reply by the Spirit of God, by revelation, and by searching of the Scriptures.
In case they be asked upon what grounds they take upon them to Preach,In the usurped days they generally called it Teaching, and not Preaching. they must reply, We Preach not, but Teach.
But in case they ask, and say, Why do ye then Teach it self?Let Statesmen consider of this Jesuitical fetch for Teaching. ye must reply, because the Sons of the Prophets did Teach; so did Jehoshaphat and his Princes, likewise did the Disciples before Christ's Resurrection, also the Scribes and Pharisees, and divers of the Church of Corinth, and these were not Church-men.
If they say by this means every man may Preach that listeth,A further Jefuitical fetch to adorn the Schisms of Rome. you must reply, I could wish we were all Preachers and Prophets, because Moses wished all the Lords people were Prophets.
[Page 47]If we should make but one or two divisions amongst the English Hereticks,Jesuitical Policies not to permit the Popish Laity to read Scripture. it were all in vain, and our labour lost; and this the Council of Trent a little before its dissolution left to our Society to handle, who from Paris, Rome, and from several places of Italy corresponded with each other, and concluded that Rome her self had not continued in that splendor as she hath done hitherto, in case her Popes and Council had not brought in novelties to please peoples fancies, by which means it confounded the capacities of the Laity and common sort, as they were not permitted to read or search the Scriptures.How they have deluded the Protestant Laity by misconstruing the Scripture, knowing they be permitred to read them. But by reason that the Hereticks of England, and other Provinces permitted them to read, it was necessary before they were well grounded in their Principles, to preach variety unto them, to some the Doctrine of Free-will; to some, that Children should not be baptized till they come to Age; to others, a Monarchy of earthly happiness after this temporal life; to others, that the righteousness of man dependeth not upon the Faith [Page 48]of Christ, but upon charity and affliction; and that any gifted man may either give or receive the Sacrament. All these and several such like observations as shall daily spring forth, must ye undertake to perform outwardly with great fervency, for thereby ye will not be suspected or discovered; for that one method being duly observed, will absolve ye, and hide your designs designed.
Then receiving these Instructions, I lest Paris, What he delivered to Shane O Neal from Father Freake whilst he was a Papist. and journied, and came to Callis, from thence I sailed into Scotland, and so came for Ireland, where I gave the Papers delivered unto me by Father Freake unto Shane O Neale, which was in the year of Christ 1564.
Judgments falling upon the Head of Shane O Neal for his Treachery and Rebellion against our Sovereign Lady the Queen.How he came to be Converted. I said within my self, God doth not prosper these unjust means, yet continuing still in my profession of the Order of Mount Carmel, I perceived always the Roman Catholicks projects to fail them, which smote my Conscience [Page 49]very often, so that I resolved to repent, that I might lay my bones in the Grave in peace, with hopes of a joyful Resurrection, when I and all mankind shall come before our Blessed Saviour Jesus Christ, before whose Tribunal all must appear, and receive according to their works, and Faith in him alone.
Witness my hand this 28th. of October, Anno Dom. 1584
Malachias Malone.
The Original of this was sent to her Majesty and Council from Sir John Perrot Knight, then Lord Deputy of Ireland, and that Council, as a signal assurance of this Convert's Reformation to the Protestant Church of England now established.
Although we should have placed these following Memorials before the Conversion of Mason or Malone, yet hapning to cast an eye thereon, being entred amongst my Fathers Manuscripts, and given unto him from John King some time Dean of Tuum, I have here set them forth, that the Reader [Page 50]may see how sensible the Lord Cicell was of the Romish Conspiracies against the Church of England and her Majesty.
You can assure her Highness of my care and charge which I undertook at my departing from her Grace and the Honourable Privy Council: I assure you I do not miss-spend my little time, it being so precious, as you and others can testify by my former Intelligences sent by the hands of Captain Russel, of which I was assured came safe to the Council. I intended to have presented this inclosed with my own hands to her Grace, but her lost message to me hath been the occasion of sending it sooner upon two accounts; it being a matter of sudden prevention, and likewise having so sure a hand, and the conveniency of Mr. Edward Maxwell's and others of our English Factors here going from hence, and guarded by her Graces Ship called the Swallow, I shall make all the speed I can possible, and with [Page 51]God's help see your Worship as chearful as ever, though I am somewhat altered by this last Voyage. God preserve your undertakings both at home and abroad, for the publick good of her gracious Majesty, and welfare of the Nation.
Your assured Servant, E. Dennum.
Venice, April 13th. 1564.
A list of several consultations amongst the Cardinals, Bishops, and others of the several Orders of Rome now a contriving and conspiring against her gracious Majesty, and the established Church of England.
Pius having consulted with the Clergy of Italy, and assembling them together, it was by general consent voted, that the immunity of the Romish Church and her Jurisdiction is required to be defended by all her Princes, as the principal Church of God.
And to encourage the same, the Council hath voted that Pius should bestow her Graces Realm on that Prince who shall attempt to conquer it.
[Page 52]There was a Council ordered by way of a Committee, who contain three of the Cardinals, two of the Archbishops, six of the Bishops, and as many of the late Order of the Jesuits, who daily encrease, and come into great favour with the Pope of late: These do present weekly methods, ways and contrivances for the Church of Rome, which hold the great Council for the week following in employment how to order all things for the advancement of the Romish Faith. Some of these contrivances coming to my hands by the help of the Silver key, be as follow:
1. The people of England being much averted from their Mother-Church of Rome, they have thought fit, sounding out their inclinations how the common sort are taken with the Liturgy in English, for to offer her Grace to confirm it, with some things altered therein, provided that her Grace and the Council do acknowledge the same from Rome and her Coucil; which if it be denied, as we suppose it will, then these are [Page 53]to asperse the Liturgy of England by all ways and conspiracies imaginable.
2. A Licence or Dispensation to be granted to any of the Romish Orders to Preach, speak, or write against the now established Church of England, amongst other Protesters against Rome, purposely to make England odious to them, and that they may retain their assistances promised them in case of any Princes invasion, and the parties so licenced and indulged (dispenced with) to be seemingly as one of them, and not to be either taxed, checkt, or excommunicated for so doing; and further, for the better assurance of the party so licenced and indulged, the party to change his name least he be discovered, and to keep a quarternal correspondence with any of the Cardinals, Archbishops, Bishops, Abbots, Priors, or others of the chief Monasteries, Abbeys, &c. At which quarternal correspondence shall not only give the Pope intelligence of Heretical conspiracy, but be a full assurance of their fidelity to Rome.
This proposal was much debated [Page 54]in the Council, which caused some of the Council to say, how shall we prevent it, in case any of the parties so licenced flinch from us, and receive a good reward, and fall off from our correspondency.
3. It was then ordered that there should be several appointed for to watch the parties so licenced and indulged, and to give intelligence to Rome of their behaviour, which parties are sworn not to divulge to any of those so licenced or indulged what they be, or from whence they came, but to be strange, and to come in as one of their Converts, so that the party shall be cautious how and which way he bendeth.
It was afterwards debated how it should be ordered in case any of the Heretical Ministry of England should become as they who had these Licences, and what should be done in that case.
4. It was then answered by the Bishop of Mens, that that was the thing they aimed at, and that they desired no more than separation amongst [Page 55]the Hereticks of England, and by so doing, in case any animosity be amongst them, the Church established by the Heretick Queen, (as they so termed her Grace) there would be the less to oppose the Mother-Church of Rome, when-ever opportunity served: This reason of the Bishop pacified the whole Council.
5. It was granted not only Indulgence and Pardon to the party that should assault her Grace either private or in publick; or to any Cook, Brewer, Baker, Physitian, Vintner, Grocer, Chirurgion, or any other Calling whatsoever, that should or did make her away out of this World, a Pardon, but an absolute Remission of Sins to the Heirs of that parties Family sprang from him, and a perpetual Annuity to them for ever; and the said Heir to be never beholding to any of the Fathers for pardon, be they of what Order soever, unless it pleased himself, and to be one of those Privy-Council whosoever Reigned, successively.
6. It was ordered for the better [Page 56]assurance of further intelligence to the See of Rome, to give Licences to any that shall swear to that Supremacy due Obedience and Allegiance to her Powers to dispence with Sacraments, Baptism, Marriages, and other Ceremonies of our now established Church in England, that the parties so obliged may possess and enjoy any Office or Employment either Ecclesiastical, Military or Civil, and to take such Oaths as shall be imposed upon them, provided that the said Oaths be taken with a reserve for to serve the Mother-Church of Rome when-ever opportunity serveth, and thereby, in so doing, the Act in Council was passed it was no sin, but meritorious, until occasion served to the contrary; and that when it was so served for Rome's advantage, the party was absolved from his Oath.
7. It was also ordered that all the Romish Orders, as well Regular as Secular, to cherish all the Adherents of the Mother-Church of Rome whenever occasion serveth, to be in readiness at the times that shall be appointed, [Page 57]and to contribute according to their capacities what in them lieth for the promotion of the Romish Cause.
8. It is ordered that the Romish Party shall propose a Match for the Queen of the Catholick Princes for to further or promote the Romish Faith.
9. It is ordered upon pain of Excommunication, and of a perpetual Curse to light on the Families and Posterities of all those of the Mother-Church of Rome, who will not promote or assist by means of Money, or otherwise, Mary Queen of Scotlands pretence to the Crown of England.
10. It is also ordered that every Romish Catholick within England and Ireland, or any of Englands Territories, to contribute to those Romish Bishops, Parish Priests, &c. that are privately, or shall be by Rome set over them, to pay all the Church duties, as if they were in possession, upon pain of Excommunication of them and their Posterity.
11. It is ordered that the See of Rome do dispence with all parties of [Page 58]the Roman Faith to swear against all Hereticks of England as elsewhere, and that not to be a crime, or an offence against the soul of the party, the Accuser taking the Oath, with an intention to promote or advance the Roman Catholick Faith.
The Original being kept private in her Majesties secret Closet amongst other Papers of secrecy at that time not to be published, having a Correspondent at that time in Italy to send her Majesty Intelligence of forreign conspiracies and contrivances.
This same noble Peer mentions in the same Book of his Memorials this relation, which is also suitable for our purpose.
In the month of June, A Relation of a Puritan Preacher permitted by the Jesuits to Preach dissention at Norwich. Anno 1584. was Francis Throgmorton seized on in London, and several Treasons were laid to his charge; although he was a Papist, yet he was a great friend to one Samuel Harper, who several times Preached after a Puritannical manner in the Town of Norwich: This great conversation of his with this pretended Minister, caused great suspitions [Page 59]to arise in that Town amongst the Inhabitants, there being more than ordinary betwixt these two.
It chanced that one Richard Cade an Inhabitant of the same Town being present then at London, How it came to be discovered. and at the Trials of Edward Arden and John Summervile, who were both condemned but the year before for Conspiracy and Treason against the Queens Majesty; at which Trial he heard Edward Arden confess that this Throgmorton was engaged in the same Conspiracy. Now this Mr. Cade being well acquainted with Throgmorton, informed the Lord Mayor of London of what he had heard, who upon this Information apprehended Throgmorton; but treasonable Papers being found then in his Pocket, verified Mr. Cade's Evidence. Amongst the Papers was found a Letter dated at Norwich the second of June from the above-named Richard Harper, By Harper's Enquiry it is plain that the Plot of 1588 was then a hatching. with these expressions: Let us know how our Friends from Spain and yours in London do correspond, and whether that King continues his purpose, that [Page 60]the Engagers may be satisfied, and have notice.
Upon these words exprest, Mr. Cade advised that his Chambers both at Norwich and in London might be searched, and that Samuel Harper may be seized on, which was approved of, and so ordered; but Samuel Harper by some notice having warning, fled not above three hours before the Pursuivant could come to Norwich, yet several Papers of Treason were found in this Throgmorton's Chamber,The treasonable Papers that were found in Throgmorton's Chamber. amongst which there were Licences and Pardons from the Jesuits Convent at Sevill. The undertakers were to be of what Trade or Calling soever they pleased, to teach what Doctrine, to be of what Opinion or Religion soever, provided that they assembled quarterly together, and keep a monthly correspondence with that Convent. Papers to the same effect from that Societies Convents at Paris and at Rome were found dated from thence,How the Jesuits stiled the D. of N. touching the D. of N. who was only stiled by the name of Thomas Howard, Gent. our very good [Page 61]Friend. Had these Papers been extant at his Trial, they would have satisfied her Highness and her Council very much; yet being discovered at this present, they give us great insight how Rome contrived the Wars of Scotland, and so many Traytors against her Highness, and that Queen Mary of Scotland was correspondent with them. The Originals her Highness is loath to have published for several reasons best known to her Majesty.
This Francis Thogmorton being condemned for High Treason, was drawn from Newgate unto Tyburn, where he was hanged, bowelled, and quartered on the 10th. of July following;Observe how the Pope licences Jesuits and Friars to Preach in a Dissenters Habit to make a faction with Protestants. before his Execution he confessed that there were in England above a dozen that he knew who were permitted to Preach by the Jesuits Licences, purposely to breed a Faction in these Dominions; but by reason that he was condemned, and to be hanged, he thought he was not bound to discover their names. This account I have from the Sheriffs, certified from the [Page 62]Records of Guild-Hall, where he was Tried, and received his Sentence. Many more things of this nature may we bring during this gracious Queens days; but we shall abbreviate, and draw nearer to her Successor King James of happy memory.
Pope Clement the 8th. consulting with his Emissaries how this King had married into a Protestant Monarchy,Pope Clement the 8ths. project to hinder King James his succession to Queen Elizabeth. set all his Engines at work to defraud this Monarch of the succession after Queen Elizabeth; for about the year 1601. this Pope sent his Breves (as they call them) into England, warning all the Clergy and Laity that professed the Roman Faith, not to admit after the Queens death any Prince how near soever in Blood to the King of England, unless he should bind himself by Oath to promote the Catholick Roman Religion to the utmost of his power. To promote this their wicked conspiracy, at the same time came into Scotland two factious and wicked spirited Jesuits, viz. John Hamilton and Edmond Hay, the first especially, for that he was known to [Page 63]have been a chief Instrument of the Seditions raised in the City of Paris in the time of the league. King James having intelligence of their repairing into his Dominion, set forth a Proclamation inhibiting their resort under the pain of Treason: In which Proclamation, to make them the more odious, these two were compared to Bothwell and Gowry, his Majesty declaring at that present that he would judge no otherwise of their Receptors, than of those that did treasonably pursue his own life; yet notwithstanding this Kings Proclamation, they found holes to lurk in amongst those of their own Religion in the Northern parts, and by this means kept in the Countrey, till after some years that John Hamilton was apprehended and carried to the Tower of London, where he died before he came to Trial. Still they continued their projects against this King, and his Title to England, knowing they had lost all hope of gaining his affection, or obtaining any promise of the toleration of their Religion when he should come to that [Page 64]Crown. Thereupon they fell to treat of a Marriage betwixt the Lady Arabella, and Robert Prince of Savoy; and that not succeeding then, they proposed a Match betwixt the said Lady and a Grand-child of the Earl of Hartfords, judging by this conjunction many would befriend them to the excluding of this King from the succession of the Crown of England; but the Queens Majesty, who truly favoured the Right of this Monarch, though she would not openly profess so much, dashed all these Jesuitical projects, and so caused an eye to be kept upon the Lady Arabella, as also upon all who resorted unto her, by whose Majestick wisdom this high Monarch came peaceably, and was invited by an unanimous consent of her Majesties Privy-Council to his Crown of England, as may appear by that Councils proceedings after the Queens death, by their Letter subscribed by that Council then in being, which Bishop Spotswood specifies in his History of the Church and State of Scotland, pag. 473.
[Page 65]This King was scarcely setled in his Throne to settle the affairs of his Realm of England when this Papal Society contrived to have executed a quick dispatch of King and State, as appears by their bloody contrivance of the Gun-powder Plot, which being already set at large to publick view, the Narrative we refer to the Reader, and so omit it. Many more Jesuitical Plots of this nature we could bring in during this Kings days contrived, as that of Gundymores, and others, but shall lay them aside, and treat of matters of this nature contrived during the Reign of his Son Charles the First of happy Memory.
We have already mentioned the Papal contrivance for a Match for the Lady Arabella, How the Papists thought by the late Kings Marrying of Qu. Mary to bring in the French Kings Forces into Ireland to invade that Nation, and so to claim a Title to that Crown. as a means to defraud the Kings of Scotlands Right to the Crown of England, the Papists rejoycing at the conjunction of England and France by the Marriage of Charles the First, and Queen Mary of France, hoping thereby to raise such another claim to the Crown of Egland as France did in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth [Page 66]by that Match of Mary Queen of Scots; they contrived a way to set Ireland in an uprore; for King Charles the First was no sooner setled in his Throne when Ireland was full of the rumour of Lewis the 13ths preparations and intentions for the invading of the same, as appears as well by the Records of the Council, if doubted, as also by Sir James Ware's Memorials. The noise of these preparations caused the Lord Henry Faulkland then Lord Deputy of this Nation, to advise with the Privy-Council what course to take for to oppose these French intentions. They upon consultation in this affair set forth a Proclamation that the chief of the Kingdom should meet at Dublin, and then to demand a general Contribution of the Inhabitants for to raise and maintain Forces to oppose that King. The Castle of Dublin being first appointed for that Assembly, St. Patrick's Church in Dublin was afterwards ordered for this Assembly to meet at.
[Page 67]The Papists were upon high terms,The Papists would not assist their King but upon terms. and would not contribute towards the safety of this Nation, unless the Lord Deputy and Council would grant them a toleration for their Religion, and also leave to build themselves Churches, and pretended Religious Houses as many as they listed, and where they pleased in all Cities and Corporate Towns.
These their proposals put a stop to these proceedings for the present, so that this Assembly was for the present dismissed, it being about Michaelmass Term, anno 1626. And another day was nominated for them to meet again, until they had acquainted his late Majesty with their demands; yet in the interim James Ʋsher late Primate of Ardmagh assembled all our Protestant Bishops together, and so prevented these Popish demands by this their protestation, as follows.The Protestant Clergy of the Church of Ireland, their protestation against these Popish terms
The Religion of the Papists is Superstitious and Idolatrous: Their Faith and Doctrine Enormous and Heretical: Their Church, in respect of both, Apostatical. To give them therefore a [Page 68]toleration, or to consent that they may freely exercise their Religion, and profess their Faith and Doctrine, is a grievous sin, and that in two respects.
For first, it is to make our selves accessary not only to their Superstitions, Idolatries, Heresies, and in a word, to all the abominations of Popery, but also (which is a consequent of the former) to the perdition of the seduced people, which perish in the deluge of the Catholick Apostacy.
For the second, to grant them toleration in respect of any Money to be given, or Contribution to be made by them, is to set Religion to sale, and with it the Souls of people, whom Christ our Saviour hath redeemed with his most precious Blood. And as it is a great sin, so also a matter of most dangerous consequence; the consideration whereof we commend to the Wise and Judicious, beseeching the Great God of Truth to make them who are in Authority, zealous of God's Glory, and of the advancement of true Religion, zealous, resolute and [Page 69]couragious against all Popery and Idolatry, Amen.
Signed.
- Ja. Armachanus.
- Anto. Midensis.
- Ro. Dunensis & Coronensis.
- Richard Cork Cloyn & Roscensis.
- Tho. Killmorensis & Ardahensis.
- Mich. Waterfordensis & Lismorensis.
- Mal. Cassilensis.
- Tho Fernensis & Laughlanensis.
- George Derensis.
- Andr. Aladensis.
- Theo. Dromorensis.
- Franc. Limiricksensis.
This being confered and agreed upon the 26th. Novemb. Anno 1626.
Upon the 23d. of April following Doctor George Downham then Bishop of Derry (the next Assembly being then to meet) in the midst of his Sermon in Christ-Church, Anno 1627. Dr. Downham then Bishop of Derry, his protestation against these terms in Christ-Church in Dublin. took occasion to speak something to this purpose, saying, that many amongst us for gain [Page 70]and outward respects were ready to consent to a toleration of a false Religion, which if they did, they were guilty of putting to sale not only the souls of Papists, but their own souls also. This is not my opinion (said he) only, but the opinion of the Archbishops, Bishops, and of the Protestant Clergy of his Majesties whole Kingdom, which I think fit to publish. He had no sooner uttered these words, when all the Protestants then in that Church cried out aloud, Amen, Amen. Then making a respit till the people had done crying out, Amen. I spoke nothing to hinder the Kings Service; for we all of the Clergy desire not only the sole Army of 5500 men (that being the number) may be maintained, but also a far greater Army, besides the Trained-Bands, and could wish that his Majesty would reserve to himself the most of those particular Graces of late offered and granted to the dishonour of God, and to himself, the prejudice and impeachment of true Religion, and what was wanting might be supplied by the Countrey, to which [Page 71]he exhorted all true Christians and faithful Subjects. The people upon this cried unanimously, Our Lives and Fortunes be at his Majesties command, for the good of the Protestant Faith of England.
The next day the late Lord Primate, Primate Ʋsher his words against the same toleration. Ʋsher, Preached before the same Auditory, and took these words for his Text, Love not the World, nor the things that are in the World: Which words he applied according to those times. These two Sermons so prevailed with the Protestants, so strengthened their resolutions, that they proposed so largely towards a maintenance for an Army to oppose the French King, that these Popish Proposals (which we have already mentioned) fell, and the Papists much ashamed and discontented; then the Lord Deputy and Council dismissed this Assembly.
There is one material thing to be observed by the Reader,The Lord Faulklands Lady known to be a Papist. that this Lord Faulklands Lady was a great Heiress to an Estate in England, which caused her Husband to seek all means the [Page 72]more to please her, she being a fickle minded woman in her judgment. The Papists of this Kingdom depended much on this Ladies being of their own Religion, although outwardly, whether out of compliance to her Lord, or by the advice of Popish Policies she went to Church, but going out of this Kingdom into England, she returned unto her Popish inclinations, which then was a signal testimony of her Religion all along.
These Jesuitical projects were not sufficient to satisfie a Romish appetite;A Riot committed by the Popish Clergy, anno 1629 seeing that these devices could take no effect, the Jesuits and Friars of Dublin, out of spleen, began to Preach Sedition unto the Papist Inhabitants within that Metropolis; continuing after this method for certain days, it came at last to Lancelot Buckley, alias Bulkley his ears, then Archbishop of the same See, who went and related what he had heard touching this seditious Doctrine, and desired of Adam Loftus Lord Viscount Elye, and Richard Earl of Cork, then Lords Justices of the Nation, to send a file of Musqueteers, [Page 73]and a Warrant to seize on these Malefactors; but coming to the Friar Carmelites-House then in Cook-street in Dublin, where these Friars were infusing of Rebellion into several of the then Popish Aldermen and Citizens of this City, they arose unanimously joyning to confront the Archbishop and his attendance in a very high nature, by wounding some of the Souldiers, and those who assisted the Archbishop, that not being sufficient, they went to assault the Bishops person, who for safety was fain to run through the Streets of Dublin and cry for help, and so obtained safeguard by running into a House, or otherwise he had been in danger of his life. This Riot of the Friars was committed about Christmass, 1629.
The Lords Justices upon this committed the Popish Aldermen and others of the Citizens; amongst which of the Aldermen one Mr. Jyans was one. On the ninth of January the Lords Justices and Council gave his Majesty and the Lords of the Council of England an account of these disasters, [Page 74]which coming to those Lords hands, they returned this answer.
By your Letters dated the ninth of January, The Lords of the Council of England to the Lords of the Council in Ireland, Jan. 31. 1629. we understand how the seditious Riot moved by the Friars and their Adherents at Dublin, hath by your good order and resolution been happily supprest; and we doubt not, but by this occasion you will consider how much it concerneth the good Government of that Kingdom, to prevent in time the first growing of such evils: for where such people be permitted to swarm, they will soon grow licentious, and endure no Government but their own, which cannot otherwise be restored than by a due and seasonable execution of the Law, and of such directions as from time to time have been sent from his Majesty and this Board. Now it redoundeth much to the Honour of his Majesty, that the World shall take notice of the ability and good-service of his Ministers there, which in person he hath been pleased openly in Council, and in most gracious manner, to approve and commend, whereby you [Page 75]may be sufficiently encouraged to go on with like resolution and moderation till the work be fully done, as well in the City, as in other places of your Kingdom; the carriage whereof we must leave to your good discretions, whose particular knowledge of the present state of things can guide you better, when and where to carry a soft or harder hand; only this we hold necessary to put you in mind of, that you continue in that good agreement amongst your selves for this and other services, which your Letters do express, and for which we commend you much, that the good Servants of the King and State may find encouragement equally from you all, and the ill-affected may find no support or countenance from any, nor any other contrivances used, but by general advice, for avoiding of further evils shall be allowed, and such Magistrates and Officers, if any shall be discovered, that openly or under-hand favour such disorders, or do not their duties in suppressing them, and committing the offenders, you shall do well to [Page 76]take all fit and safe advantages, by the punishment or displacing of a few, to make the rest more cautious. This we write, not as misliking the fair course you have taken, but to express the concurrency of our judgments with yours, and to assure you of our assistance in all such occasions wherein, for your future proceedings we have advised. And his Majesty requireth you accordingly to take order, first, that the house wherein Seminary Friars appeared in their habits, and wherein the Reverend Archbishop and the Mayor of Dublin received the first affront, be speedily demolished, and be the mark of terror to the resisters of Authority, and that the rest of the Houses erected or employed there, or elsewhere, to the use of suspitious Societies, be converted to Houses of Correction, and to set the people on work, or to other publick uses, for the advancement of Justice, good Arts or Trades; and further, that you find out the Lands, Leases or Revenues applied to their uses, and dispose thereof according to [Page 77]the Law, and that you certifie also the places and institutions of all such Monasteries, Priories, Nunneries, and other Religious Houses, and the names of all such persons as have put themselves to be Brothers and Sisters therein, especially such as are of note, to the end such evil Plants be not permitted to take root any where in that Kingdom, which we require you to take care of.
As for the supply of Munition, which you have reason to desire, we have taken effectual order that you shall receive it with all convenient speed, and so bid you heartily farewell.
- Lord Keeper.
- Lord Treasurer.
- Lord President.
- Lord Privy-Seal.
- Lord High Chamberlain.
- Earl of Suffolk.
- Earl of Dorset.
- Earl of Salisbury.
- Earl of Kelly.
- Lord Viscount Dorchester.
- [Page 78] Lord Newbergh.
- Mr. Vice Chamberlain.
- Mr. Secretary Cooke.
- Sir William Alexander.
His Majesty beholding and considering how rebellious his Popish Subjects have hitherto been,The Papists design to take off the Earl of Straffords Head. as we have already exprest even from the first entrance into his Throne, some few years after sent over Thomas Lord Wentworth (afterwards Created Earl of Strafford) to Govern his Kingdom of Ireland, who executed that place to that Kingdoms advantage by civilizing the Inhabitants, and bringing them to an English Station, as to this day appears by those English Plantations by him ordered in the Counties of Longford, Wicklow, and other places. These acts or good deeds of his pleased not some peoples fancies, especially not the sancies of the Irish Natives of the Popish Religion during this Nóble-mans Government. He obtained a Grant of four Subsidies for the maintenance of an Army, which was irksome to the ancient Natives of [Page 79]that Land: He being recalled about the year 1640. was not long in England before he was Indicted of High-Treason, his Enemies at that time casting all aspersions imaginable to make him odious to most men; amongst which aspersions they gave out as if he were inclined to Popery, but his actions during his Government in Ireland shews yet to the contrary: He was beheaded in the Month of May 1641. then his Enemies having removed so great a Pillar of State as this Noble-man was, began to shew their teeth; for upon the 23d. of October following, by their Popish Rebellion they testified what they aimed at.
And the better to accomplish their design for the Plot of 1641. one White wrote this Letter following to a Popish Peer of Ireland, that the City of Dublin might be at that appointed time under a Popish Jurisdiction.
A Letter to a Popish Peer of Ireland, how he may secure the City of Dublin against the Protestants, at the prefixed time appointed and plotted by the Irish Papists to rebell in the year 1641. found with other papers at the taking of Droghedah after the Rout of Remines.
IF you can procure a Patent for the City of Dublin to make their Mayors Lord Mayors as well as London, This Letter directed to the Lord Viscount G. their policy will be to offer the Catholick Aldermen to become free of the same, none being so proper to consult herein as Alderman Jyans, who must declare to the Table of Aldermen the great [Page 81]affection your Lordship hath for that City, and also tell them how you are going over, and shall tell His Majesty how much they be his faithful Subjects; and in case they would accept of your Lordship, you would honour their City to become their first Lord Mayer, and so procure them Letters Patents for that Dignity, and that it may remain upon Record how a Noble Peer of the Realm became the first Lord Mayor thereof. This being broken unto them, and his Majesties Letters procured for the passing of this Patent, the work is in a manner perfected. We be in a fair way ere long to asswage Heresie and her Episcopacy; for Exetor's Book hath done more for the Catholicks than they could have done themselves; he having written [Page 82]that Episcopacy in Office and Jurisdiction is absolutely (Jure Divino) which was the old quarrel between our Bishops and King Henry the 8th. (during his Heresie) then disputed upon, which Book doth not a little trouble our Adversaries, who declare this Tenent of Exetor's to be contrary to the Laws of this Land. You will see a great Oke fall speedily, which formerly shaded poor Ireland's Glory. All is like to prosper here, so I hope with you there. You shall have no more from me till we meet at London, which I hope will be shortly.
Your Lordships Humble and True Servant at call, T. White.
London, Feb. 12. 1639.
Copia vera ab Originale. Ʋt fuit cum Hen. Midensis Episcopo.
[Page 83]In the year 1640.See Mr. Prynne's demonstration, shewing how the Papists contrived the late Kings Murther, and the then Rebellions in Scotland and England. George Con a Scotch-man being then the Pope's Nuntio. Prynne's Rome's Master-piece, pa. 18. Sir William Boswell being then Agent for his Majesty at the Hague, having intelligence of a Plot then advising by the Jesuits and the Church of Rome to take off his Majesty, in case he would not tolerate their Religion, wrote this discovery unto William Laud then Archbishop of Canterbury, who immediately shewed the same to his Majesty. The Papists upon this account, and also remembring the overthrow he gave to Fisher the Jesuit, thought they could not accomplish their evil design unless they took away this Pillar of the Church also; then under a dissenting disguise they cast aspersions on this holy Father, knowing nothing could make him more odious to the Commonalty than to say that he was a Papist, or endeavoured to bring in Popery; thus continuing in the gall of bitterness until he was cut off also.
Rome having accomplished her desires thus far, now begins to aim at a higher strain: His Majesty being about this time in great distress, wanting [Page 84]Moneys and other necessaries to support him against Romish and Puritanical policies, made his application to those Subjects whom he knew he might confide in, who served him faithfully to the uttermost of their abilities; yet several Judas's sprinkled amongst them betraid them with their kisses; for it is well known, as we shall afterwards make it appear from sufficient Authors, how Rome ordered her affairs under-hand. For to propagate this Plot of hers, she divides her Emissaries thus: She sprinkles some of her Tribe amongst the faithful of the Church of England, and suffers them openly to declare themselves Protestants, yet with Oaths and Protestations to pretend to serve their King. Then with the dissenting party she Jesuitically disguises her self into a Puritanical dress to serve the adverse party, hereby the better to find out the intentions of Kings and Princes, and so to play her Game accordingly, by which means they brought the Head of that glorious Kingly Martyr to the Block.
[Page 85]To prove that Rome was the chief Instrument to draw the Subject into this horrible Engagement, we will begin to bring that Reverend person Dr. Du Moulyn for one of our Authors, who in his vindication of the sincerity of the Protestant Religion writes thus:
When the business of the late bad times are once ripe for an History,How Rome contrived the late Kings death. See Dr. Dumoulyn. pag. 58, 59. and Time, the bringer of Truth, hath discovered the mysteries of Iniquity, and the depths of Satan, which have wrought so much ruine and mischief, it will be found that the late Rebellion was raised and fostered by the arts of the Court of Rome, that Jesuits professed themselves Independent, as not depending on the Church of England; and Fifth Monarchy men, that they might pull down the English Monarchy, and that in the Committees for the destruction of the King and the Church, they had their Spies and their Agents. The Roman Priest and Confessor is known, who when he saw the fatal stroke given to our holy King, and Martyr, [Page 86]flourished with his Sword, and said Now the greatest enemy that we have in the World is gone. To confirm what this Reverend Divine hath written, we entreat the Readers to cast their eyes on these words, which Mr. Henry Fowles specifies in his History of the wicked Plots and conspiracies of our pretended Saints, pag. 14. His words being thus:
When the late King was murthered,Prynne's brief necessary vindication, pag. 45. Mr. Henry Spotswood, riding casually that way just as his Head was cut off, espied the Queens Confessor there on Horseback, in the habit of a Trooper, drawing forth his Sword, and flourishing it over his own head in triumph (as others then did): At which Mr. Spotswood being much amazed, and being familiarly acquainted with the Confessor,Another testimony shewing how Rome contrived the death of the late King. rode up to him, and said; O Father! I little thought to have found you here, or any of your Profession, at such a sad spectacle: To which he answered, that there were at least forty or more Priests and Jesuits there present on Horseback, besides himself. The resultancy of this [Page 87]Story is home and pat; and for the truth of it, I refer you to Mr. Prynne.
Other Authors could we cite, but to rational men knowing these two be sufficient proofs for our vindication, we shall proceed no further for a testimony; yet we shall desire the Reader to consider how so soon as these Priests and Jesuits had perfected this evil fact, to take off the malignity of it from themselves, they hit it in the teeth of the dissenting Party to this day; therefore as a warning to the dissenting Party, we shall desire them to consider how they were gull'd and brought into this ignominy: The Papists in a dissenting disguise first set these people a madding, and after slipt their own necks out of the halter, reserving those halters at last to hang those whom they had seduced, by which they suppose themselves not guilty of the Fact, by reason none of them who were executed for the same declared to be a Papist.
Amongst these Priests and Jesuits then present at that bloody work, there were two of the late Queens [Page 88]Confessors, one of whom went under the name of Captain Tho Preston, and had a Command of a Troop of Horse under Oliver the Usurper. This said Impostor came over into Ireland, and lay for a time at Alderman John Preston's House in Skinner row in Dublin, his Troop of Horse at that time being quartered at Athy, a Town distant about 27 miles from that City, to disguise his Jesuitical policy; and that he might not be suspected, he Married (or at least kept a Wench as his Wife,) for you have already heard how they esteem the Marriage of the Church of England Heretical; by which device of theirs they say 'tis no Marriage, but a venial sin. This pretended Captain, upon the Restauration of our now gracious King Charles the Second, laid down his Arms, and declared what he was, saying, that he would fall to his old Calling; and being asked what that Calling was, he made answer that he was the Queens Confessor, and was not ashamed to own it. Several of the City of Dublin have heard this, and can testify the same.
[Page 89]Sir John Temple, and Doctor Borlace in their Books touching the relation of the Irish Rebellion begun anno 1641. make mention of a Friar who cruelly tied or caused to be tied several Protestants back to back, and so to be flung over Portadowne-Bridge in Ireland. A relation of a Popish Impostor, by Order a Friar, and he took upon him a Military Employment, and changed his Name to advance the Church of Rome. This Friar about the time that Oliver Cromwell came over into Ireland, went disguised into England, at which time he received one Wards Wife, by whom he had several Bastards, pretending she was his Wise. Cromwell going back for England, this Friar (by what means is not known) became very gracious and conversant with that Usurper, and then went under the name of Captain Holland; upon this intimacy and acquaintance Oliver Cromwell made use of this Impostor, and gave him a large allowance per annum to give him Foreign and Domestick Intelligence, for he would pay upon Post-days above forty shillings and more for Letters directed to him by the name of Captain Holland; yet it chanced that upon a certain Speech which Oliver made [Page 90] anno 1654. to this effect, viz. that there was nothing done in England either of State or Ecclesiastical matters, but that it was carried on by the Jesuits, and that Rome knew things before they were past in England, and so bade his then Parliament to look into this affair; search being made, and things inquired into, some of these Impostors were discovered, amongst the rest this pretended Captain Holland, and the Crimes which we have already mentioned laid to his charge, yet Oliver Cromwell protected him, and would not permit the Witnesses to prosecute any further. This Holland died within two years after, and left Thurla, Oliver's Secretary, his Executor, to oversee what he had left for the use of his Whore and Bastards, which being found to be about 2500 l. Oliver seized on the summ, and said, The Rogue got it under me, let his Whore and Bastards shift for themselves. And thus ill-gotten Riches perished.
Doctor Ramsey a Scotch man, and one of his Majesties Physitians of [Page 91] Scotland, had two Sons,A relation of one Ramsey a Jesuit, who went under the name of Captain Right, and an Officer under Oliver Cromwell. one Ramsey a Captain in Oliver Cromwells Army, who went under the name of Captain Right; the other Son, Tho. Ramsey, who lately practiced Physick here in Ireland. As touching the former, he was a Jesuit, and went under that name, purposely to hide his Function, and also to accomplish his Romish policies, that he (with others of his Popish Crew) might hit it in the teeth of those whom these sorts had missled, and say that it was Protestants, and not Papists, that murthered their King, and fought against him. It chanced one day that this Jesuit riding in the head of his Troop, that his Father Doctor Ramsey beheld him, and being between fear and doubt whether it was his Son or no, he enquired of one of his Troopers whom he was? they returned answer, that it was one Captain Right; but his Father having heard how he had taken a Jesuits Function upon him beyond Seas, and not suspecting that he had been in the Kingdom, went secretly to Cromwell, and related the Story to him how he [Page 92]had a Jesuit an Officer in his Army, and that his name was Ramsey, though he went under the name of Captain Right. Upon this description of his Fathers Oliver grants a Warrant, and had him apprehended: His Quarters being searched where he lay, there was found Papers of correspondence with that Society. All this being proved, this Jesuitical Captain was dismounted, to be mounted a step or two higher, and so sent to Heaven in a String.
As for the other Brother,A confession of Doctor Tho. Ramsey, the other Ramseys Brother, and how he reformed. Doctor Tho. Ramsey, he had been a great Traveller, and a great Scholar, well vers'd in Physick, and an Excellent Linguist, yet a rank Papist. Some say a Jesuit, as his Brother was, others say he was only a Lay Brother of that Society, which sort are permitted to Marry, the better to propagate their Romish Plots and contrivances. This Thomas was, as I take it, twice Married, his last Wife yet living; he was of a wild and wandring spirit, very witty, and always merry, especially in his cups; in which (to his company) [Page 93]he would disclose several of his mad Pranks. Amongst which, this was one: He being, as we have already mentioned, a great Linguist, went to Oxford, where he pretended to be a Jew, and there he taught the Hebrew Tongue to several of the Scholars, but being suspected to have been an Impostor, they thought to have catechiz'd him; but he being aware of that, left that University, and went to Cambridge, where he was tract, and from thence went to London. He lurking disguisedly in this City, Mr. Prynne having heard of several of his mad Pranks, offered five Pounds to any man that could bring Ramsey unto him; the Doctor having intelligence of this design of Mr. Prynnes, he one day puts on an outlandish dress on him, and over it an old rugged Parsons Gown; then coming to Mr. Prynne's House, he enquired for him, and coming into his presence, he spake the Italian Language, also the German, and Latin, pretending unto him that he was a poor Bohemian Priest, and had been a Slave in Turkey, [Page 94]but was happily redeemed by an English Turkey Merchant; then telling of his wants, and how desirous he was to go to his own Countrey, in case he could not be preferred in England: Mr. Prynne began to take compassion on him, and told him that he would procure gatherings for him, and for the present gave him five Pounds to buy him Apparel, and bid this poor Bohemian Priest not to be a stranger to his House. After that he had played this cheat with Mr. Prynne, he wrote within few days after a Letter to him to this purpose, that he had heard some say that he would give five Pounds to see him; nay further, that he had given Ramsey himself five Pounds; and so wrote according to what we have already mentioned.
He several times owned how he was in Cromwells days employed by the Pope, and by the Jesuits, to advance their affairs as well in England as in Ireland; also how he had Preached sometimes in an Independent shape, other times in an Anabaptist and Quakers shape, and had the Pope's Bull [Page 95]for what he did. This Doctor about three years since, viz. about the year of our Lord 1678 or 1679 died at Derry, yet for some months before his death reformed to the Protestant Faith of England. It being thought that he was poysoned secretly amongst the Jesuits, they envying of him for his reforming to our Church; for he being a jovial companion, cared not what company he went in. Sir William Stewart Knight, one of his Majesties Privy-Council, can give a further account of this Doctor; who, as I hear, hath some Papers of his Confessions and Reforming, which had they come to my hands, I had for the publick good here inserted; but for want of them, what we have already mentioned, can be attested by Sir Henry Pierse Baronet, his Sons William and Henry Pierse Esquires, and Justices of Peace of the County of Westmeath, and Mr. Mark Pierse of the same, Gent. to whom he told these like Stories of himself, and many more, he living at Tristernaugh Town in the said County with them, near a [Page 96]quarter of a year, and being then their Physitian.
Several of his Majesties Subjects of Ireland being in London upon the death of Oliver Cromwell the Usurper,Peter Talbott the late Titular Archbisho of Dublin very intimate with Cromwell. who were more desirous to see his Funeral Solemnities, than to see him officiate in his Tyrannical Government, obtained leave to be at a Friends House at Westminster to behold the Celebration thereof. John King, then Dean of Tuam, a faithful Subject of his Majesties, shewed to several of the Spectators, saying, there goes Peter Talbott amongst the Mourners in deep Mourning; which had not these Spectators seen, they would scarcely have believed that it had been he. At that time it being the fashion for Mourners not to cast off their Mourning Cloaks so soon as they do now a days, he was seen by several to walk in the same Habit, with his Cloak folded under his arm for some months after this Funeral, walking in the Piazza in Covent-Garden, and other of the Streets of the City of London.
Upon General Monk's rising in England [Page 97]to bring in our now Gracious Sovereign King Charles the Second into his Throne, this said Peter Talbott went in company with the then General Lambert, riding to oppose the Duke of Albemarls designs: For these his good seats, the Pope made him Titular Archbishop of Dublin; Dean King's Wife, Mrs. Sarah King can testify this for a true Narrative, if examined, and is yet living.
Since his Majesties happy Restauration,Hoc factum circa ann. 1670 aut 71. there came a certain Peer out of England into Ireland, who there bore sway; and it is well known to the Inhabitants of the City of Dublin, that this mighty Peer lent a Suit of Arras Hangings, and the best of his Plate, to the above Peter Talbott, to adorn that Titular Bishops Mass-House, and Altar. This Sir F. B. a Knight, and Alderman of the said City, and several others of the Citizens can testifie,Satan begins to transform himself into an Angel of Light to destroy the Church of England. if demanded, besides the words which the said Peer spoke at the time he lent these Adornments, which were thus, or to this effect: That he hoped to hear high Mass within six [Page 98]months in the Cathedral of Christ-Church in Dublin. Doubtless these were signal demonstrations or forerunners of the late Popish Conspiracy anno 1678.
Samuel Pullen Doctor of Divinity coming into Ireland before the late Irish Rebellion, A notable Story of a Jesuit, who pretended to be a Shoomaker, and to Preach by Inspiration. he became first Chancellor of Cashel, and Dean of Clonfert; the Irish Rebellion anno 1641 bursting out, the Papists (about those parts of Ireland) murthered several of the Protestants, and Protestant Ministers; this Samuel being at that time in danger, was preserved by Providence by a Jesuit named James Saul, alias Sall, who (before that Rebellion) had received from the Dean several favours, which caused James Saul to preserve the Dean from being murthered for the space of three months, until he could be conducted into English Quarters.
After this escape the Dean sailed into England, where he became Chaplain to the then Earl of Oxford, where he tarried for divers years. It chanced (during the Deans stay there, and [Page 99]in the time of Usurpation, when several Meetings were permitted,) that the Earls Countess was disswaded from her Principles, for to go to hear those sort of Preachers, amongst whom there was a Shoo-maker much admired by his Auditory, which occasioned the Countess to extol him unto the Dean, for a pious and heavenly gifted man, and often urg'd the Dean to go and hear him; who, upon several intreaties, as also to comply with the Countess, the Dean went with her to this Meeting. At his coming thither, he observed the Shoomaker, and found by his words, that those speeches of his went beyond his Last, and that he was a man of Parts. Yet although years had changed this Impostors Physiognomy, as also being altered by his Beard, the Dean recollected with himself that he had seen this Shoomaker before. At last, the Sermon being ended, the Countess (his great Admirer) invited him home to Dinner; after which the Dean and he fell into a Disputation, who finding this Shoomaker had skill in the [Page 100] Hebrew, Greek and Latin Tongues, demanded of him how he came by that Science? The Shoomaker replied, by the holy Spirit. But (to conclude) the Dean told him, he knew to the contrary, and that he had reason to know it; thereupon gave him thanks for preserving of his life in Ireland, and said you are Mr. Sall; and as you saved mine, I shall save yours. The Dean then speaking unto my Lord, and to his Countess, said, this man saved my life in Ireland in the tumultuous days of the Irish Rebellion, therefore I shall make bold to engage to this my friend, that your Lordship and my Lady shall do him no harm, provided that he departed thence from that Shire, and not delude the common people there any longer. This pretended Shoomaker being thus discovered, his Trade could no longer abscond his Jesuitical Function, and so he craved a certain time for to depart thence; saying, Pray let me not go in a hurry, lest I be suspected; which desire of his was easily granted. In the interim he pretended [Page 101]to the rest of his followers to be warned by the Spirit to go and teach elsewhere, which did not a little trouble them, especially the poor silly Women, who could not hold from dropping of tears for the departure of so heavenly a man. After this warning he left Oxfordshire within three weeks. The Countess upon this was recalled to the Church of England, to the great admiration of the rest of this Impostors Followers, who enquiring the reasons of this sudden change, were all likewise ashamed that they had been thus deluded. This said Samuel Pullen was (since his Majesties happy Restauration, by the means of his Grace the Duke of Ormond) preferred to the Archbishoprick of Tuam in Ireland; several have heard that Right Reverend Father relate this passage in his life time, and some are yet living to testifie the truth of it: Witness Dean Pearse for one, who hath heard something to this purpose.
Mr. John Crooke, some time Bookseller in St. Pauls Church-yard at the Ship in London, and since Stationer and [Page 102]Printer to his most Serene Majesty in Dublin, told this Story following unto Sir James Ware, Knight, now deceased.
Anno 1656. the Reverend Divine Doctor Henry Hammond being one day in the next Shop to this said John Crookes, and there reading the Works of S. Ambrose, a Red-coat casually came in and looked over this Divines shoulder, and there read the Latin as perfect as himself, which caused the Doctor to admire that a Red-coat should attain to that Learning; then speaking unto him, he demanded how he came to that Science? the Red-coat replied, by the holy Spirit; the Doctor hereupon replied, I will try thee further, and so called for a Greek Author, which the Read coat not only read, but construed: The Doctor to try him further, called for the Hebrew-Bible, and so for several other Books, in which this Read-coat was very expert: At last the Doctor recollecting with himself, called for a Welch-Bible, and said, if thou beest inspired, read me this Book, and construe it; but [Page 103]the Read-coat being at last catch'd, replied, I have given thee satisfaction enough, I will not satisfie thee further, for thou wilt not believe though an Angel came from Heaven. The Doctor smelling out this deceit, caused the Apprentice to go for a Constable, who being brought to the Shop, the Doctor told the Constable he had something to say against this Red-coat, and bade him bring him before Oliver Cromwell, then called the Lord Protector. The Red-coat being brought to White Hall, and examined, he, after a rustick manner, Quaker-like, thou'd and thee'd Oliver; but being suspected, it was demanded where he quartered, it being found out, at the Devil Tavern. The Doctor intreated his Chamber might be searched, which was accordingly searched, where they found an old Chest filled partly with his wearing Apparel, as also with several Papers, and seditious Popish Books; amongst which, there being a pair of Boots, and Papers stuft in one of them, they found a Parchment Bull of Licence to this Impostor, granted [Page 104]under several names, to assume what Function or Calling he pleased. These being brought before Oliver, for what reasons it is unknown, yet the Red-coat escaped, bringing several proofs of what great service he had done, and the greatest affliction was laid on him was Banishment, and what proceeded further we know not.
When Oliver Cromwell routed the Irish Priests and their Clergy out of Ireland, Father Nowland the Dominican of Gallway his ingenious Confession of himself to William Muschamp Esq how he plaid the part of an Independant in Cromwell's days. one Father Nolan, alias Nowland, a Dominican Friar of Gallway fled beyond Sea, who afterwards in some space of time came into England, and landing at Plymouth in a poor mean habit, stragling in that Town till he had got a service. This Nowland chanced to come to one Mr. Hughs his House, who was in those days a great Independant Minister, and Preacher in that Town. This Minister hired Nowland, who at first was underservant to the Gardner, and in little time became chief Gardner himself. Mr. Hughs, according to the usual custom of Dissenters, had his weekly Meetings upon week days; where at [Page 105]his House the Elders and several of his Flock would assemble to Pray, and to Expound. It was observed that Nowland was very diligent, and would turn to the Texts of Scripture very readily, which Mr. Hughs perceiving, encouraged Nowland, and in a short time took him from Gardning, and made him his Butler. Nowland being thus highly preferr'd, strove all he could to please his Master, and observing that his Master would sit up late at his Study, which Study was a little beyond the Buttery, and that his Master was always to pass by the Buttery-door to go thither, he had ordered the matter thus; One night hearing his Master locking of his Study-door, Nowland fell to his Prayers, and had put out the Candle, which Mr. Hughs hearing, he put out his Candle also, and laid his ear to the square hole that was cut in the Buttery-door, where he continued whilst Nowland was at his Prayers; after which he secretly went to his Chamber, considering with himself, that this poor ignorant man (as he thought) [Page 106]must needs be inspired. But upon the next Meeting day, Mr. Hughs discoursing with the Elders, and chief of his Followers of this passage, they all assented that Nowland should Pray. But Nowland pretended, alas, he knew not how to Pray, poor man, not he; but it being consented amongst the Brethren that he must Pray, and that if God had endued him with such a Gift, he sinned if he did not make use of it. Upon which intreaty Nowland Prayed, acting the gestures, posture and tone as well as the best of themselves, to their great admiration; for which all the Meeters gave Nowland a summ of Money to buy him handsom Apparel for those days: Nowland coming every day more into favour than formerly he was; he begun to shew his Master some observations that he had made upon the Scripture, which so pleased the Elders, and the people, that Nowland became an Expositor of the Scripture, and so Expounded upon certain days amongst the Meeters, and was no longer Butler, but ordered to sit at Mr. Hughs his Table. Thus [Page 107] Nowland continued in esteem amongst the Independants at Plymouth until the Restauration of our Gracious Sovereign K. Charles the Second; then pretending for a while he would go and see his Relations in Ireland, and let them see how God had provided for him, and that he would return again in a short time. Upon this promise, taking of his leave, he departed thence, and came into Ireland, where he hath hitherto continued. This Narrative the said Nowland himself confessed un William Muschamp Esq now one of his Majesties Commissioners for the farming of his Revenues there, who can certifie that this Nowland made his brags how he serv'd the Independants at Plymouth.
There is yet in Ireland a Clergyman of the Church of Rome, Mr. Andrew Catherwood his Narrative of one Jackson a pretended Saint, yet a Romanist. one Jackson by name, who has Preached (as we are informed by our Author) for these several years past, viz. ann. 1668, 1669, and 1670. within and about the Counnty and City of Limerick, amongst the Nonconformists in those parts. This Fox when he began to [Page 108]Preach at Limerick, received from those Nonconformists at one time about fourscore Cobbs for a Sermon then Preached unto them; after which he invited an acquaintance of his, Mr. Andrew Catherwood, to a Treat, at which time he spent about twenty shillings of this summ, the said Mr. Catherwood assuring us, who heard him declare these words, that this said Jackson was the first that ever brought him to a Bawdy-house within that City.
The said Mr. Andrew Catherwood doth likewise affirm that this Jackson would often pretend that he had received Letters from Francis Marsh then Bishop of Limerick, and would frame these Letters as if they had weekly come from him, saying, that that Bishop would fain have him to Preach in his Cathedral, but it was against his Conscience so to Preach; therefore he had rather Preach to his Flock for Charity, than to the Bishop for Gain. This he framed to cologue with his Followers, and would shew these pretended Letters of his to please them.
[Page 109]Mr. Catherwood also affirmeth that this Jackson would say Mass disguised to the common sort in that County upon week-days; and although he seigned this outward Godliness amongst the Dissenters at Limerick, that he came up to Dublin, and there Preached amongst our Ministers in our Churches; and after, to cologue with the Dissenters in that City, he pretended to them to fall from the Church of England, and Preached in the Meetings; where (as he the said Jackson confessed to Mr. Catherwood) he got about 13 l. Sterl. collected by the Meeting-houses in Dublin.
This Jackson was born at Abberdeen in Scotland; he is a great Scholar, and a Traveller, for he hath travelled into France, Italy, Germany and Spain. In Spain he taught a School, as being Ʋsher under a publick Schoolmaster there; he still wandreth about this Kingdom of Ireland, and was lately seen in the County of Mayo: The then Bishop of Limrick, Fran. Marsh, now Archbishop of Dublin, we suppose may have heard of this Impostors pranks [Page 110]already mentioned, during the time that his Grace was Bishop of Limrick; which, if testified, would strengthen this Mr. Catherwoods Evidence, who declared this above Narrative unto us, whose names hereafter follow, Robert Ware Esq John Madden Student in Physick of Trinity-Colledge in Dublin, and before Pearse Welch, being upon the 25th. of Feb. 1681.
Thus far have we laid before you the practices of Rome, devised to divide the Protestant Church of England; therefore the dispensations allowed by her Popes and Clergy be many and large (as appears by what you have already heard) purposely to drive on, and set forward her impious Plots; she therefore dispenses with her Adherents to take the shape, yea, even of a member of the Church of England, not out of love thereunto, but to accomplish her intended purposes. For example-sake, there was a certain Knight, Sir E. L. well known over his Majesties Dominions of England, Scotland and Ireland, who came into this his Majesties Kingdom of [Page 111] Ireland anno 1670, or thereabouts.
It is not unknown unto the Inhabitants and Citizens of Dublin, that in the year following 1671, upon the one and twentieth of May there hapned a surious fire in his Majesties Castle of Dublin; during which flames the Lord John Butler (afterwards created Earl of Gowran, third Son to his Grace James Duke of Ormond, now Lord Lieutenant of the Nation) took great care and pains to extinguish the same; which had it been trusted unto the said Knight, we question whether half the Buildings now there extant would have been seen this day: For this Knight, under the pretence of saving the rest of the Buildings within that Castle, would have blown up the great Hall belonging to this Palace. To execute this project the quicker, he caused a Barrel of Gunpowder to be placed in the middle of that Hall, and so to have dropt a train of Powder, and to set fire to the same. But this brave spirited Lord coming in at that instant, and enquiring why that Barrel was there placed, and having [Page 112]heard the project, he most couragiously (although the flames were over his head) lifted up the Barrel of Gunpowder, and carried it out on his shoulders, saying, I approve not of this project.
When this Fire hapned, as is generally reported by several of the Citizens of Dublin, that night the water of the City was stopt, so that the Castle-pipe had no water but what they were fain to bring in from the Mill-pond in the Stable-yard without the Castle-walls.
It hath been generally reported that this Knight went secretly to Mass at this time, but whether he did or no, it was observed that he would walk before the then Lord Lieutenant amongst the Gentry to Church, with his Bible publickly under his arm to be seen. This posture disguised his Religion, which since is discovered, although at Church he would seem very zealous, turning to the Texts of Scripture as fast as they were quoted by the Minister.
[Page 113]There is a Learned Doctor,Doctor Salls testimony concerning this Knight. some years now past, who turned unto the Church of England, Andrew Sall by name, formerly an Ecclesiastick of the Church of Rome, who hath affirmed how he had heard formerly, when the Lord J. B. went Embassador into France, that this Sir E. L. went with that Lord; and that the French King being taken with the Knights humors, he and that King covenanted together after this manner.
This Knight was to give intelligence to the French King,The Covenants between the French King and this Knight. acting under-hand for him, making this Proviso for himself, that in case he should be discovered, and thereby incur the King of Englands displeasure, if he fled into France, he should be there succoured, and the French King there to provide a place for him.
Several others besides this Divine have heard the same, besides what the Letters of News have mentioned to this effect. For the perfecting of this Covenant, it is visible and known how he hath been accused to be one of the Conspirators in the late Popish [Page 114]Plot anno 1678, for which he was clapt up; but afterwards being released upon Bail, he fled into France, where he is not only succoured to this day, but likewise provided for, and there preferred to be an Abbot in Paris, where several of his Majesties Subjects have seen him ranting with his Coach and Horses.
Whilst this Knight tarried in Ireland to find out the affairs of the Metropolis of this Kingdom,How this Knight thrust out Sir William Davies to bring in himself Recorder of this City. he cajoled several of the Aldermen and Citizens of Dublin, by breeding animosities between them and the Recorder, Sir William Davies, purposely to make place for himself, and to expulse Sir William. This Knight being ambitious, not only to know the modes and manners of the City, but also to change the ancient Rules and customs according to his fancy. To further this his purpose, he made the Lord Berkley to procure the Recorders Place, which Place he once taking possession of, he began to change the old Rules and Customs aforesaid, which bred much clashing amongst the Aldermen and [Page 115]Commons of the City; but he then having the ear of the Lord Berkley, bore all afore him, hectoring after this manner.
Several of the Aldermen being discontented with these actions of his,His first pranks after he became Recorder. complained, but all to no purpose; for which complaint of theirs, by this Knights means, and by the new stamp which he had raised to assist him, these Aldermen whose names follow were expulsed, and razed out of the roul of Aldermen; Alderman Richard Tigh, Daniel Hutchinson, Lewis Desminieres, Enoch Reader, Mark Quin, Joshua Allen, and Francis Bruster, the two last Aldermen being since Knighted.
In lieu of these then expulsed Aldermen for to make up a Table of his own gang and creatures,This Recorders new Aldermen. by reason they voted to his will and pleasure, this Gentleman preferred William Gresingham, Nathanael Philpot, and one Brookes, who has been since one of the Informers of the late Popish Plot; Peter Ward, who hath been since Lord Mayor of Dublin; and [Page 116]others were offered at the same time to be made Aldermen also, but refused. The Government of this City continuing under this tuition of their new Recorder and change of Aldermen, until the Government of this Nation was changed, to make way for the Right Honourable Arthur Earl of Essex.
This Honourable Peer was scarce fetled in the Lieutenancy when the grievances of these mutations (which we have already mentioned) came before his Lordship and this Honourable Board,The Earl of Essex and the Privy-Council their verdict in this matter; the seven Aldermen restored, and the three degraded. shewing before them the former passages and enormities committed by this Knight, and his Adherents: These Grievances took up ten or eleven hours debate upon hearing the same. Then after some days considerations between this Noble Peer and the Privy Council, they appointed a day for the Lord Mayor, Sheriffs and Aldermen to hear their Judgment and Opinion: At which time it was ordered Sir Ellis to be expulsed, and Sir William to be restored; the seven aforesaid Aldermen [Page 117]to take their places as formerly, and the other three new ones to be degraded. Upon this Order the Knight being thus deprived of his prey, fled to seek it elsewhere, being too well known in this City for to tarry longer, and so departed hence into England.
Whereas you have read already how it was the Jesuits, and other the Emissaries of Rome, who contrived the cutting off the two Pillars of our Church and State, the better for their evil purposes to contrive a way for to murther our late Gracious Sovereign and Godly Martyr Charles the First. And also whereas you have had a relation of the Papal Conspiracies, and of the correspondence between the Papists of Ireland, and of France, for the invading of Ireland; so likewise we humbly lay before you the Papal contrivances of their Brethren and Popish Fathers in England at the same time working against his Sacred Majesty, and the welfare of the Church and State of England, as shall here appear by a copy of a Letter [Page 118]written from a Jesuit to his Correspondent at Bruxels, as follows.
A Copy of a Letter from a Jesuit.
LEt not the damp of astonishment seize upon your ardent and zealous Soul in apprehending the sudden and unexpected calling of a Parliament: We have not opposed, but rather furthered it; so that we hope as much in this Parliament, as ever we feared any in Queen Elizabeths days.
You must know the Council is engaged to assist the King by way of Prerogative, in case the Parliamentary way should fail. You shall see this Parliament will resemble the Pelican, which takes a pleasure to dig out with her beak her own bowels.
The Election of Knights and Burgesses have been in such confusion of apparent Faction, as that which we were wont to procure heretofore with much art and industry, (when the Spanish Match was in Treaty) now breaks out naturally as a Botch or [Page 119]Boil, and spits and spues out its own rankor and venom.
You remember how that famous and immortal Statesman the Count of Gondomar fed King James his fancy, and rocked him asleep with the soft sweet sound of Peace, to keep up the Spanish Treaty. Likewise we were much bound to some Statesmen of our own Countrey, for gaining time by procuring those most advantagious cessations of Arms in the Palatinate, and advancing the Honour and Integrity of the Spanish Nation, and vilifying the Hollanders; remonstrating to King James, that that State was most ungrateful both to his Predecessor Queen Elizabeth, and his Sacred Majesty; that the States were more obnoxious than the Turk, and perpetually injured his Majesties loving Subjects in the East-Indies, and likewise they have usurped from his Majesty the Regality and unvaluable profit of the Narrow Seas in fishing upon the English Coast, &c.
This great Statesman had but one principal means to further their great [Page 120]and good designs, which was to set on King James, that none but the Puritan Faction, which plotted nothing but Anarchy, and his confusion, were averse to this most happy Union. We steered on the same course, and have made great use of this Anarchical Election, and have prejudicated and anticipated the Great one, that none but the Kings Enemies, and his, are chosen of this Parliament, &c.
We have now many strings to our Bow, and have strongly fortified our Faction, and have added two Bulwarks more: For when King James lived (you know) he was very violent against Arminianism, and interrupted (with his pestilent Wit, and deep Learning) our strong designs in Holland, and was a great friend to that old Rebel and Heretick the Prince of Orange.
Now we have planted that Sovereign Drug Arminianism, which we hope will purge the Protestants from their Heresie; and it flourisheth, and bears fruit in due season.
The materials which build up our [Page 121]Bulwark, are the Projectors and Beggars of all Ranks and Qualities: Howsoever, both these Factions co-operate to destroy the Parliament, and to introduce a new species and form of Government, which is Oligarchy.
Those serve as direct Mediums and Instruments to our end, which is the universal Catholick Monarchy. Our foundation must be Mutation, and Mutation will cause a Relaxation, which will serve as so many violent Diseases, as the Stone, Gout, &c. to the speedy distraction of our perpetual and insufferable anguish of body, which is worse than death it self.
We proceed now by Councel and mature deliberation, how and when to work upon the Dukes jealousie and revenge; and in this we give the Honour to those which merit it, which are the Church Catholicks.
There is another matter of consequence which we take much into our consideration and tender care, which is to stave off Puritans, that they hang not in the Dukes ears, they are impudent subtil people.
[Page 122]And it is to be feared lest they should negotiate a Reconciliation between the Duke and the Parliament at Oxford and Westminster; but now we assure our selves we have so handled the matter, that both Duke and Parliament are irreconcilable.
For the better prevention of the Puritans, the Arminians have already lock'd up the Dukes ears; and we have those of our own Religion, which stand continually at the Dukes Chamber to see who goes in and out: We cannot be too circumspect and careful in this regard. I cannot choose but laugh to see how some of our own Coat have accoutred themselves, you would scarce know them if you saw them: And 'tis admirable, how in speech and gesture they act the Puritans. The Cambridge Scholars, to their wosul experience, shall see we can act the Puritans a little better than they have done the Jesuits: They have abused our Sacred Patron, Saint Ignatius, in jest; but we will make them smart for it in earnest. I hope you will excuse my merry digression; for I confess [Page 123]unto you, I am at this time transported with joy to see how happily all instruments and means, as well great as less, co-operate unto our purposes. But to return unto the main Fabrick; our Foundation is Arminianism, the Arminians and Projectors, as it appears in the premisses, affect mutation. This we second, and enforce by probable arguments. In the first place we take into consideration the Kings Honour, and present necessity; and we shew how the King may free himself of his Ward, as Lewis the Eleventh did. And for his great splendor and lustre, he may raise a vast Revenue, and not be beholden to his Subjects, which is by way of imposition of Excise: Then our Church Catholicks proceed to shew the means how to settle this Excise, which must be by a Mercenary Army of Horse and Foot. For the Horse, we have made that sure, they shall be Forreigners, and Germans, who will eat up the Kings Revenues, and spoil the Countrey wheresoever they come, though they should be well paid; what [Page 124]havock will they make then, when they get no pay, or are not duly paid? They will do more mischief than we hope the Army will do.
We are provident and careful that this Mercinary Army of two thousand Horse, and twenty thousand Foot, shall be taken on, and in pay, before the Excise be setled. In forming the Excise, the Countrey is most likely to rise: If the Mercenary Army subjugate the Countrey, then the Souldiers and Projectors shall be paid out of the confiscations; if the Countrey be too hard for the Souldiers, then they must consequently mutiny, which is equally advantageous unto us. Our superlative design is, to work the Protestants as well as the Catholicks to welcome in a Conqueror, and that is by this means: We hope instantly to dissolve Trade, and hinder the building of Shipping, in devising probable designs, and putting on the State upon Expeditions, as that of Cadiz was, in taking away the Merchants Ships, so that they may not easily catch, and light upon the West-India Fleet, &c.
[Page 125] This Account was sent unto the Lord Deputy Falkland from some Members of his Majesties Council of England, viz. from Suffolk, Salisbury, Morton, and the Bishop of Durbam; together with this Epistle following.
KNowing that his Sacred Majesty and his Privy-Council assembled for the calling of this Parliament, have formerly given you the reasons and urgent necessities for the same, we omit it; but by this late discovery here inclosed, we are jealous that most of the Members herein chosen be of a factious crew, and so you will find [Page 126]by the Copy of the discovery at Clarken-well, there being taken amongst an Assembly of Recusants divers Jesuits, amongst whom several treasonable Papers were found, this being one amongst the rest; in which you may perceive the Papists great spleen to his Grace the Duke, also the treasonable Conspiracies against his Majesty Foreign and Domestick; notwithstanding the discovery hereof, for divers reasons we have not set this enclosed to publick view, his Grace and some others having acquainted his Majesty that they will undertake to find out the bottom of this mystery, and thereby politickly have advised his Majesty to permit the sitting of this Parliament, from the seventeenth of this instant, the better to find out their inclinations, [Page 127]and how they be affected according to this discovery.
We are sensible now Ireland was in some danger of an Invasion by the French Papists, and that the Papists of Ireland and they have correspondence together. The Jesuits be not only a subtil Society, but also an audacious sort of people fearing no punishment, no, not the Halter it self;The D. B. his advice how to banish Friars and Jesuits out of these Dominions. so that we are at a nonplus how to devise a means to banish these Wasps from His Majesties Dominions; his Grace the Duke propounded in Council the other day, no punishment fitter for the driving out of these sorts of Cattel, than gelding them, and gave very good reasons for it; one of them was shame ever after to shew their faces; the other was, being guelded, they could [Page 128]not execute their Priestly Function according to the Ecclesiastick laws, wanting their members. Your Clergie of Ireland in opposing the Popish offertures made unto his Majesty, (which your Lordship unto us have signified) have not only through Gods Blessing protected that Dominion,The Bishops and Clergy of Ireland commended for not tolerating of Popery. but also saved His Majesty and this Nation from future Broils. Thus concluding, We bid your Lordship heartily farewel:
Your Lordships Humble Servants, - Suffolk,
- Salisbury,
- Morton,
- Durham
White-Hall, March 2. 1627.
[Page 129]The better to confirm the Letter directed to the Rector aforesaid, this Letter is also entred and Printed amongst Mr. John Rushworth's Historical Collections, pag. 474. Nothing excepting (to be discerned in our Copy) saving in the conclusion of the Letter, these words, Joyn Prayers with us, imploring the Blessed Virgin, and all the Host of Angels and holy Martyrs to intercede for us. Thus hoping to see Count Tylley and Marquess Spynola here about July come a twelve-month, I rest: In the mean time we pray for an happy success in Germany, and the Low-Countries.
This conclusion is wanting in Rushworth's Collections in the Letter to the Rector aforesaid.
When the Original of this Jesuitical Lord was seized on amongst other Papers, it was supposed to have been written by one Winter a Jesuit, and [Page 130]Nephew to the same Winter, who was executed for the Gunpowder-Treason in King James his days, now about 77 years since.
This Parliament sat upon the day appointed, being upon the 17th. of March 1627. Sir John Finch the Queens Attorney then being chosen Speaker of the House of Commons; at which Assembly his late Gracious Majesty saluted both the Lords and other Members thus:
THese times are for Action, The Kings Speech. for Action, I say, not for words, therefore I shall use but a few; and (as Kings are said to be exemplary to their Subjects, so) I would wish you would imitate me in this, and use as few, falling upon speedy consultation. No man is, I conceive, such a stranger to the common necessity, as to expostulate the cause of this meeting, and not to think supply to be the end of it; and as this necessity is the product and consequent of your advice, so the true Religion, the Laws and Liberties [Page 131]of this State, and just Desence of our Friends and Allies, being so considerably concerned, will be, I hope, arguments enough to perswade to supply; for if it be, as most true it is, both my duty and yours to preserve this Church and Common-wealth, this exigent time certainly requires it.
In this time of common danger, I have taken the most ancient, speedy, and best way for supply, by calling you together. If (which God forbid) in not contributing what may answer the quality of my occasions, you do not your duties, it shall suffice I have done mine; in the conscience whereof I shall rest content, and take some other course, for which God hath impowered me, to save that which the folly of particular men might hazard to lose.
Take not this as a menace, (for I scorn to threaten my inferiors) but as an admonition from him who is tied, both by nature and duty, to provide for your preservations; and I hope, though I thus speak, your demeanors will be such as shall oblige me in [Page 132]thankfulness to meet you oftner; than which, nothing shall be more pleasing to me.
Remembring the distractions of our last meeting, you may suppose I have no confidence of good success at this time; but be assured I shall freely forget and forgive what is past, hoping you will follow that sacred advice lately inculcated, To maintain the Ʋnity of the Spirit in the Bond of Peace.
This Speech of his Gracious Majesty to the moderate Members was acceptable; to the Factious or Puritanical sort, an amasement; and to the Papal sort so affected, a terror, or guilt of conscience, making them look asquint upon themselves; and were it not for shame, they would have run on their old course with violence, which the Jesuits had plotted, as the Letter taken at Clarken-well aforesaid specifieth; yet to smother their private future intentions, they concorded with the moderate sort to grant his Majesty some Subsidies.
The Court of Rome by their Emissaries [Page 133]sprinkled here, having intelligence of the seizure of these Papers, (to slip their necks out of the Halter) consulted with those whom they had made sure, as appeareth by the Letter, in these words; We have not opposed it (meaning the calling of this Parliament) but rather furthered it; so that we hope as much in this Parliament, as ever we feared any in Queen Elizabeths days. How the Jesuits laid their contrivance on the Church of England. Then smelling how the Duke had discovered their Romish Policies, they began the better to gloss their intentions, to lay before the House several grievances touching Religion, aspersing at that time Neale the then Bishop of Winchester, and Laud then Bishop of Bath and Wells, to be the two Supporters of Arminianism; whereas the Letter sheweth it was their own act and contrivance. Also in this Grievance they lay all their mischief by them devised upon the Duke of Buckingham, saying he was the cause of these vexations. Therefore for the better satisfaction of the Reader,Vide pag. 113, & 114. we shall lay before you the heads of these Grievances [Page 134]then presented in Parliament, as William Sanderson in his History of the Reign of King Charles the First sets them down.
The Grievances being thus.
- 1. THe danger, and innovation, and alteration in Religion. This occasioned by, 1st, The great esteem and favours many Professors of the Romish Religion receive at Court. 2 dly, Their publick resort to Mass at Denmark-House, contrary to his Majesties answer to the Parliaments Petition at Oxford. 3 dly, The Letter for stay of proceedings against them. Lastly, the daily growth of the Arminian Faction favoured and protected by Nele Bishop of Winchester, and Laud Bishop of Bath and Wells, whilest the Orthodox parts are silenced or discountenanc'd.
- 2. The danger of Innovation, and alteration in Government occasioned by the billetting of Souldiers, by the Commission for procuring one thousand German Horse and Riders, as for [Page 135]the defence of the Kingdom, by a standing Commission granted to the Duke to be General at Land in times of Peace.
- 3. Disasters of our designs, as the expedition to the Isle of Rhe, and that lately to Rochel, wherein the English have purchased their dishonour with the wast of a million of treasure.
- 4. The want of Ammunition, occasioned by the late selling away of thirty six last of Powder.
- 5. The decay of Trade by the loss of three hundred Ships taken by the Dunkyrkers and Pyrates within these three last years.
- 6. The not guarding the Narrow-Seas, whereby his Majesty hath almost lost his Regality.
Of all which evils and dangers, the principal cause is the Duke of Buckingham his excessive power, and abuse of that power. And therefore they humbly submit it to his Majesties wisdom, whether it can be safe for himself, or his Kingdom, that so great power both by Sea and Land, as rests in him, should be trusted in the hands [Page 136]of any one Subject whatsoever.
These Jesuitical contrivances not being able to disswade the late King from his tender affections unto the Duke,How the Jesuits contrived the Duke of Buckinghams death. but rather encouraged his Grace more, which the Jesuits perceiving, they contrived his death; whereupon the 23d. of August following he was stabb'd by one John Felton, who in his examination being asked why he kill'd the Duke, he replied, I shall be brief, I killed him for the cause of God and my Countrey. Yet that the Reader may the better compare the Leter directed to the Father Rector at Bruxels, and also the heads of the grievances before mentioned, with the Confession of John Felton, we here lay before him, as the same Author sets it at large; in these words.
And after some discourse,Feltons Confession. See Sanders, pag. 122, 123. Sir (said he) I shall be brief, I killed him for the cause of God and my Country. Nay, said the other, there may be hope of his life, the Chirurgion said so. It is impossible, (he replied) I had the force of forty men, assisted by him that guided my hand. And being interrogated to [Page 137]several questions, he made these answers: That he was named John Felton, heretofore Lieutenant to a Foot-Company under Sir James Ramsey. That he had endeavoured for a Commission to be Captain in this Expedition, and failed therein, but without any regret upon the Duke, (from whom he had found respect) nor for any private interest whatsoever; that the late Remonstrance of Parliament published the Duke so odious, that he appeared to him deserving death, which no Justice durst execute. That it was not many days since he resolved to kill him; but finding the Duke so closely attended, that it should be his business to pass a Voluntier, and do it in this Voyage. Somewhat he said of a Sermon at St. Faiths Church under Pauls, where the Preacher spake in justification of every man in a good cause to be Judge and Executioner of Sin, which he interpreted to be him. That passing out at the Postern-Gate upon Tower-Hill, he espied that fatal Knife in a Cutlers Glass-case, which he bought for sixteen pence. It was [Page 138]the point end of a tuff Blade stuck into a cross Haft; the whole length, handle and all, not twelve inches, fastned to his right pocket; and from that time he resolved therewith to stab him. That some days after he followed the Train to Portsmouth, and coming by a Cross erected in the High-way, he sharpned the point thereof upon the Stone, believing it more proper in Justice to advantage his design, than for the Idolatrous intent it was first erected. That he found continual trouble and disquiet in mind until he should perform this Fact, and came to Town but that morning. That no Soul living was accessary with him by any ways or means of the Dukes execution. That he was assured his Fact was justified, and he the Redeemer of the peoples sufferings, under the power of the Dukes Usurpations, &c. And his Paper tackt in the Crown of his Hat, seemed to satisfie his Conscience that he was thereof well pleased.
This unhappy Murther caused great distractions, especially in State-affairs; [Page 139]so that the House of Parliament and his Majesty differed very much in setling the Customs and other matters, which in conclusion was the chief Instrument or cause of this Parliaments dissolution.
Anno 1652. There chanced to come unto Collonel Richard Lawrence, then Governour of Waterford under Oliver Cromwell, one Nugent, who seemed to be a fair conditioned man, and so was hired by the Collonel to work in his Garden; but knowing the Collonels temper and Principles in Religion, he strove to please him all he could, not missing Prayers in the Family or Meetings when-ever appointed. Thus he continued with the Collonel for several years: At last it chanced that Justice John Cook, who was executed for the late Kings Murder, took a great liking to this Nugent, and begged of the Collonel for to let him go over with him into England, which the Collonel easily granted to oblige Justice Cooke. Nugent staying for a while with Justice Cooke, returned into Ireland, and came to his old [Page 140]Master Collonel Lawrence, where he remained for a while, and upon the Kings happy Restauration this Nugent became the Popish Confessor and Priest at Leislepp some 6 or 7 miles distant from Dublin, and hath seen the Collonel several times since, and laughs at him to this day when he sees him, considering how he had plaid the Dissembler with him, as if he had been one of the Collonels Fraternity, which is of the Anabaptists. Thus it is evident how Dissenters have been mightily gull'd since the years 1640, and 1641. especially by the Church of Rome, purposely to make Separation in the Church of England. This the Collonel himself cannot deny; for he told the Author this Story on the 28th. day of March 1682. besides to others yet living in the City of Dublin, who can testifie this Narrative for a truth.
Hitherto we have shewed how the Papists have acted under the disguised habits of Presbyterians and Independants, with a design to ruine the [Page 141]Church of England: It will not be now unseasonable to shew further how they have assembled themselves among the Quakers, and Preached in their Meeting-Houses, with a design of inlarging and continuing the divisions of Protestants: To which purpose I shall subjoin a passage out of a small Pamphlet published by Mr. Prynne, called The Quakers unmasked. Which runs thus:
The Information of George Cowlishaw of the City of Bristol aforesaid Ironmonger, taken the 22th. day of January, 1654.
WHo informeth on his Oath, that in the Month of September ber last, this Informant had some discourse in Bristol with one Coppinger, an Irish-man, formerly a Schoolfellow of his, that came purposely thither for his passage into Ireland; who told this Informant, that he he had lived in Rome [Page 142] and Italy eight or nine years, and had taken upon him the Order of a Friar of the Franciscan Company: And he told this Informant, that he had been at London lately for some months; and whilest he was there, he had been at all the Churches and Meetings publick and private that he could hear of, and that none came so near him as the Quakers: And being at a Meeting of the Quakers, he there met with two of his acquaintance in Rome, (the which two persons were of the same Franciscan Order and Company) that were now become chief Speakers amongst the Quakers, and he himself had spoke among the Quakers in London about thirty times, and was well approved of amongst them. And this Informant further saith, that the said Mr. Coppinger asked him what kinds of opinions in Religion there were in Bristol? And this Informant told him that there were several opinions and judgments: and not naming any opinions of the Quakers; the said Mr. Coppinger asked him whether there had been any Quakers in Bristol? And the Informant answered him, No. Whereupon [Page 143]the said Mr. Coppinger told him the said Informant two or three times, that if he did love his Religion and his Soul, he should not hear them: Whereupon this Informant told him, that he thought none of them would come to Bristol: Who expresly replied, that if this Informant would give him five Pounds, he would make it five hundred Pounds, if some Quakers did not come to Bristol within three weeks or a month then following. And on the morrow following the said Coppinger departed this City for Ireland, his native place, and about eighteen days after there came to this City [Most likely his two fellow Franciscan Friars fore-mentioned, who have there done much hurt, and gained many disciples, some whereof disturbed two of the Ministers publickly in the Church, and assaulted and reviled one of them in the Streets very lately] two persons that bear the name of Quakers.
This is a true Copy of the original Information taken upon Oath at Bristol, as aforesaid, the 22th. of January [Page 144]last: From whence the Reader and whole Nation may take notice, especially those in present Power, who should prevent such dangerous growing mischiefs with greatest care, not connive at them any longer.
1.See Cromwells Speech in the Painted Chamber, Sept. 4.1654, p. 16, 17. That there are multitudes of Romish Emissaries and Vermin now residing and wandring up and down freely amongst us, to seduce and divide the people, by setting up new Sects, and Separate Congregations in all places, and broaching new Notions and Opinions of all sorts, or old Heresies or Blasphemies; not saying Masses, praying to Saints and Images, or crying up the Popes Supremacy, &c. as heretofore.
2. That they are the chief Speakers and Rulers in most Separate Congregations, and particularly amongst the Quakers, amongst whom the Franciscan Friars act their parts as well as the Jesuits.
3. That they have their several [Page 145] Missions and Directions into all parts from their Generals and Superiors, of their respective Orders, residing commonly in London, (Cromwell's Speech, p. 16, 17. where they have a Consistory and Council sitting, that rules all the affairs of the things of England,) besides fixed Officers in every Diocess) and are all fore-acquainted both with the places and times of their several Missions; seeing Coppinger could so certainly predict the time of their Mission, and coming to Bristol, where they have done much harm, and assaulted and disturbed the Ministers both in publick and private.
4.See Thomas Campanella de Monarchia Hispanica, c. 25.27. That the Popes and these his Emissaries chief endeavors are to draw the people from our Churches, publick Congregations, Ordinances, Ministers, and Religion, and to divide and tumble us into as many Sects and Separate Conventicles as they have Popish Orders; and thereby into as many civil Parties and Factions as possibly they can, to ruine us thereby, Matth. 12.25, 27.
5. That by this their new Stratagem [Page 146]and Liberty, they have (under the disguises of being Quakers, Seekers, Anabaptists, Independents, Ranters, Dippers, Anti-Trinitarians, Anti-Scripturists, and the like) gained more Proselytes and Disciples, and done more harm in eight or nine years space to the Church and Realm of England, more prejudice, dishonour and scandal to our Religion and Ministers, than ever they did by saying Mass, or Preaching, Printing, or any point of the grossest Popery in 80 years time heretofore. And if not speedily, diligently, restrained, repressed, will soon utterly overturne both our Church, Religion, Ministery, and State too in conclusion, having already brought them to sad confusions and distractions.
Now that which gives great cause of suspicion,See Regula Fratrum minorum sub Francisco Militantium. Ven. 1500. that these Quakers are either disguised Franciscan Fryers, or their seduced Disciples and Emissaries, is
1. Their rambling about from place to place by two and two together to vent and spread their Errors; as the [Page 147] Franciscan Friars use by theSee Regula Fratrum minorum sub Francisco Militantium, Ven. 1500. Rules of their Order are bound to do, and the Queens Franciscans did here of late.
2. Their use of vile and course Array, and condemning not only all Pride and Luxury, but lawful decency in Apparel in themselves and their Proselytes, in imitation of theSee Surius & Ribadeniera, in vita & Regula Fratrum Minorum Sancti Francisci. Franciscans.
3. Their perswading people to desert their lawful Callings and Employments, to embrace a kind of idle, monkish, lasy life, and ramble about from place to place to vent their pretended Visions, Revelations, Prophecies, Messages, and New Lights; a practice usual with Franciscan Friars, and St. Francis their Founder.
4. Their rude and uncivil behaviour in refusing to salute, or shew any reverential respect, honour, or humble deportment towards Magistrates, or other persons of what quality soever, either in words or gestures, (of which the rude Cynical Franciscans are most guilty of all other Popish Orders) contrary to express Scripture Precepts and Presidents. Exod. [Page 148]20.12. Deutr. 5.19. Matth. 15.4. Ephes. 6.2, 5. Rom. 13.1, 2, 7. Hebr. 12.9. 1 Pet. 2.13, 14, 17, 18. (an observable Text against them) Tit. 3.1, 2. 1 Tim. 6. v. 1, 2, 3. (a notable Text) Ephes. 5.33. Gen. 18.2, 3. c. 19. 1, 2. c. 23.7. c. 24. v. 31. c. 27.19. c. 33.3, 4, 6, 7. c. 37.9, 10. c. 41.43. c. 42.6. c. 43.26, 28, 29. c. 48.12. c. 49.8. Exod. 11.8. Ruth 2.10. 1 Sam. 20.41. c. 24.8. c. 25. v. 23, 24, 25, 41. c. 28.14. 2 Sam. 9.8. c. 14.22, 23. 1 King. 1.16, 23, 31, 47. c. 2.19. 2 King. 2.15. c. 4.26, 27, 37. 1 Chron. 21.21. Est. 3.2. which compared with Matth. 10.12. c. 5.4. Mar. 9.15. Lu. 1.40. Acts 18.22. c. 21.7. c. 25.13. 1 Cor. 16.21. 2 Cor. 13.13. Phil. 4.21, 22. Col. 4.10, 12, 15, 18. Rom. 16.15.7, 9. to 17. 2 Thes. 3.17. may teach these rude Quakers and their Disciples far better manners and civility, both in their gestures, behaviours, and words, than now they exercise.
5. Their Doctrines, that the Saints are perfectly holy in this life, and do not sin, being able to stand perfect in their own power: That they are as [Page 149] equally holy, just, good and free from sin as Christ and God himself: maintained byThe perfect Pharisee, p. 1, 2, 11, 14. Fox, Naylor affirmed of St. Francis, the Father of the Franciscans, and justified by them in their Writings: as you may read in Surius & Ribadeniera in the Life of St. Francis, and the blasphemous Book Conformitatum Beati Francisci ad vitam Jesu Christi, l. 3. cum addition. Heir. Bucchii. Bon. 1590. first writ by Bartholemaeus de Pisa, and approved by a General Chapter of the Franciscans held at Assise Aug. 2. 1389. and ratified by their Popes. Antonini Chronicon. Tit. 24. c. 1, 2. Vincentius Belvacensis. Speculum Hist. lib. 3. c. 97. and Mornay his Mistery of Iniquity. London. 1612. p. 347, 348.
It is the observation of many learned intelligentAnd of G. Emmot a late reclaimed Quaker in his Northern Blast. Protestants, who have pryed into the Opinions and Practices of all our late New Sects, That in their Books, Writings, Speakings, Preachments,Witness Extreme Ʋnction, used by many Separate Congregations, and their recusancy to hear our Ministers, or come to our publick Ordinances, and the like. Practices, are interlarded, and mixed with some Jesuitical and Popish Tenents, Opinions, Ceremonies & Practices; by which we may as visibly discover a Jesuit, a Popish Priest or [Page 150] Fryer in them, as we may a Lion by his paw. And nothing (in my judgment, more clearly detects the Popish Fryers, Priests, and Jesuits, to be the principal inventers, erectors of, Actors, Rulers, Speakers amongst our Quakers, and other New Sects; then their pretended, See G. Emmot his Northern Blast, with Gilpin's book, both relenting Quakers. extraordinary sudden extravagant Agonies, Trances, Quakings, Shaking, Raptures, Visions, Apparitions, Conflicts with Satan, Revelations, Illuminations, Instructions in new divine Mysteries and Seraphical Divinity, whereof they pretend they were wholly ignorant before, being illiterate persons; their intimate familiarity and immediate communion with God and Jesus Christ, in, and after their agonies and extasies; their extraordinaay Callings Missions, Messages to such and such particular orders, fects, places, persons; their sudden speaking, understanding of several Languages which they pretend they never learned, but got by inspiration: all which are the very same in form and substance with those ridiculous lying Enthusiasms, Impostures, Cheats, Agonies, See Wierus de Praestigiis Daemonum. l. 1. c. 10. & 17. in Jo Gerson de Probatione Spirituum. Revelations, [Page 151]Visions, Raptures, Illuminations, Inspirations, Apparitions, &c. of Popish Saints, Fryers, Priests, Jesuits, Nuns, recorded in the lying Legends and Lives of their Romish canonized SAINTS, by Capgrave, Surius, Lippomanes, Ribadeniera, Mafeus, and other of their fraternity, especially in the Lives of St. Francis, Ignatius Loyola (the Founders of the Franciscans and Jesuits Orders, the principal Actors, Speakers amongst the Quakers, and other late Enthusiasts, if fully examined) and of St. Dominick, for Men: and of St. Katherine of Sienna, and St.Imitated by some women Quakers. Bridget of Sweden, for Women. Out of this St. Bridgets Life and Revelations, printed in Folio at Nuremberg, Ann. 1524. most of our Male and Female Quakers extravagant new Revelations and Impostures are extracted, as those who will but compare them may at first discern. And though they conceal their Jesuitisme and grossest points of Popery from their Disciples at first, baiting their hooks only with pleasing Novelties, shews of superlative Sanctity, andSee G. Emmot his Northern Blast p. 1.13, 14. The perfect Pharisee, p. 9.10, 11, 14, 29, 35, &c. invectives against our [Page 152] Ministers, Ordinances, Church, Tithes, Government, and the like; that so they may more easily catch the silly people; yet they discover their Jesuitical Positions and Popish Doctrines, more openly by degrees; at last, (as Evangelical Perfection, Justification by our own inherent Righteousness and Holiness, &c. crying them up for new Gospel Light amongst the ignorant vulgar; and crying down our Protestant Ministers, Ordinances, Sacraments, the Articles of our Creed, Church Liturgies, Gods Ten Commandments, the Lords Prayer, our Churches, and sometimes the Letter of the old and new Testament as Popish andThe Jesuits, Popish Priests and Fryars condemned our Ministers heretofore as unlawful Ministers because they derived not their Ordination from the Church of Rome: now they turn the scales, and affirm them to be no lawful Ministers, but Antichristian and Popish upon this false pretext, That they derive their Ordination and Ministry from the Pope and Church of Rome. Antichristian: as the Fryers and Jesuits did heretofore in their Books and Discourses in their very Language. And it is evident by some late instances that they are Anti-magistratical as well as Anti-ministerial. [Page 153]Yea that theseSee John Gilpin's and others [...] conce [...] the Quakers in the North. Quakers use inchanted Potions, Bracelets, Ribons, Sorcery and Witch-craft, to intoxicate their Novices and draw them to their party; As Simon Magus bewitched the people of Samaria with his Sorceries, Act. 6.9, 11. and other seducing false Teachers, bewitched the foolish Galatians, that they should not obey the truth, Gal. 3.1. which Enchantments, Sorceries, Charms, Fascinations and Exorcismes are very frequent amongst Popes, and Popish Priests, Menks, Fryers, Jesuits, as you may read at large in Joannes Wierus de Praestigiis Daemonum & Incantationibus. Basilae. 1568. especially l. 2. c. 7. l. 5. c. 2, 3, &c. Platina, Benno, Cardinalis, Baleus, and others in the Lives of Pope Silvester 2. Benedict 9. John 20 and 21. and other Popes, who were all most infamous Magicians, Sorcerers, and Inchanters, by which black art they got the Papacy. And Del Rio his Disquisitio Magie, and John Jee his Foot out of the Snare, London, 1624. will prove the Jesuits and Priests in England are still accustomed to them, to win and seduce their [Page 154] Proselytes. Whence we find this Scripture expression concerning Romish Babylon Rev. 18.23. By thy SORCERIES were ALL THE NATIONS DECEIVED.
FINIS.