A compleat history of the lives and reigns of, Mary Queen of Scotland, and of her son and successor, James the Sixth, King of Scotland, and (after Queen Elizabeth) King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, the First ... reconciling several opinions in testimony of her, and confuting others, in vindication of him, against two scandalous authors, 1. The court and character of King James, 2. The history of Great Britain ... / by William Sanderson, Esq.

A compleat history of the lives and reigns of, Mary Queen of Scotland, and of her son and successor, James the Sixth, King of Scotland, and (after Queen Elizabeth) King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, the First ... reconciling several opinions in testimony of her, and confuting others, in vindication of him, against two scandalous authors, 1. The court and character of King James, 2. The history of Great Britain ... / by William Sanderson, Esq.

Table of contents

[1]

Title page

THE PROEME TO THE First Part.

Index of the first Part to the entrance of King JAMES to the Crown of England.

Narrative Passages of the first Part and stories, to be read single by themselves.

These particular Passages of the Second Part may be read by themselves apart.

The INDEX to the second Part.

THE PROEME TO THE Seeond Part.

The LIVES and DEATHS of MARIE Queen of SCOTLAND, And of Her Son and Successor JAMES The Sixt of that name, King of SCOTLAND, And of Great BRITAIN, FRANCE and IRELAND the First.

Introduction.

The Life and Death of MARY Queen of SCOTLAND.

Fawkland, 20th August, 1600.

[2]

§

Title page

Introduction.

The Reign and Death OF KING IAMES, OF Great Britain, France, and Ireland, the First, &c.

Excommunication.

Ireland.

Confirmation.

Absolution.

Private Baptism.

Excommunication.

The perfect Conference.

Thrird and fourth general heads mingled together.

The third general Head Church-garment.

The fourth general Head Common Prayer.

Fourth general Head.

§

§

His Answer.

Out of his Annotations.

Out of his Apologie.

His MAIESTIES SPEECH at his first comming to the Star-Chamber.

The humble Petition of the Nobility of ENGLAND.

§

To the Right Honourable the Lords of the Parliament, the Vpper House assembled. The humble submission and supplication of the Lord Chancellour.

The Commons fair Declaration to assist the King to recover the Palatinate.

The Kings Answer to their Petition.

§

To Our Right Trusty and Well-beloved Counsellour, Sir George Calvert, one of our principal Secretaries.

The Kings Reply.

A PROCLAMATION for the dissolving the Parliament.

§

§

§

§

We your Majesties most Humble and Loyal Subjects the Lords and Commons do in all humility offer unto your Majesty These two Petitions.

§

Boltons Religious Contemplation of King Iames.

Sir Francis Bacon in honour of K. Iames.

An EPITAPH ON King Iames the sixth.

The Conclusion.

§

§

[Page]

[Page]

A COMPLEAT HISTORY OF The LIVES and REIGNS OF MARY Queen of SCOTLAND, And of Her Son and Successor, JAMES The Sixth, KING of SCOTLAND; And (After Queen Elizabeth) King of GREAT BRITAIN, FRANCE, and IRELAND, The First, (Of ever Blessed Memory:)

Reconciling several Opinions, In Testimony of Her, and Confuting others, in Vindication of Him, against two scandalous Authors;

1. The Court and Character of King James,

2. The History of Great Britain.

Herein is expressed, The particular Affairs of Church and State:

The Reformation of the One,

The Policies and Passages of the Other.

The frequent Disturbances of Both,

By Wars, Conspiracies, Tumults, and Treasons, with the contemporary actions of Neighbor Nations, in reference to this whole Island. Faithfully performed,

By WILLIAM SANDERSON, Esq

London, Printed for Humphrey Moseley, Richard Tomlins, and George Sawbridge, and are to be sold in Pauls Church-yard, at Py-Corner, and on Lud-Gate-Hill. MDCLVI.

THE PROEME TO THE First Part.

[Page]

[Page]

TO be in print without a Preface is not the Mode now; and though it intends to let in the Reader, as the Porch to a Palace, yet it seems to be built up after the Book. For u [...]ually it discovers the weakness of the Work, by an ingenuous Confession of more faults than some other man may find out, and so craves favour.

I prefix this really before I write more of the matter; And therefore to pretend excuse for what shall follow amiss, might seem a presumptuous sin, as if I meant to offend: Not, but that Offences will come, and may be found out hereafter, more properly then to be summ'd up in the end of all, and added to the Escapes of the Presse, and so to plead the Generall Pardon.

Our Design is History; commonly divided into 3. Kinds.

1. Memorials, A naked Narrative without contexrure of Things and Actions.

2. Antiquity, The Shipwrack of History, somewhat saved [Page] from the Deluge of Distruction, and so subject to question, as that excellent History of the World, done by Sir Walter Raleigh, with exact diligence; which yet indures the examination of his Errours, by One, who in truth took much pains to worst it the more (that Master-peice) by the Epitomy, which (besides the injury to the Work it self) becomes unprofitable to the Readers expectation. With these two kinds we mean not to meddle.

3. But with Perfect History, being in truth that which comprehends a Chronocled Time, representing the life of a Prince, with the Narrative of actions relative; therefore with little favour of different opinions, may be accounted the most compleat for Estimation, Profit and Use in the magnitude of Affairs, Men and Matter.

And of this nature, Our Histories of England are said to be defective in the Main; And for that of Scotland, too too partial as done by different affections and interest in matters Ecclesiastical and Civil. Therefore it hath been accounted worthy the labour, to mold them both into one Body joined to these times from their first conjunction in Union of the Roses, to the uniting of the Kingdomes.

The latter hath been in some sort set out (single) to our hand by a Compendium of the 5. King Iames's, immediately succeeding each other, and lately done by William Drummond.

After whom we intend to take up the Remain; Beginning where he leaves, with the birth of Mary instantly succeeding the Death of her Father Iames the fifth with the contemporary actions of neighbour Princes. And so to her Son and Successor Iames the sixth; and (after the death of Queen Elizabeth) of Great Brittain, France and Ireland the first, and last King compleat, in right of issue descended from Margaret, eldest Daughter unto Henry the seventh of England, and Iames the fourth of Scotland, with Re-union in that antient Title of Brittain.

But in brief;Henry 7. The first Union of Marriage begat a present Peace,James 4. between Henry the seventh of England, and Iames the fourth of Scotland. And at that instant, Scotland brought forth a Prodigious Monster of Man; under the waste like other men, the Members both, for use and comliness were two; and standing it was indifferent to which of the two Bulks the Legs belonged. This Bifrons had different passions and divers wills; chiding each other, and quarreling; until by over-wrangling, they unwillingly agreed, and was cherished by the King, taught languages, and lived eighteen years. A Monstrous Omen to the Union.

This Iames was young and active, for twenty five years of [Page] his Reign, having occasion to cope with two Henries, the Seventh and Eighth of England, Father and Son successively. The first took his Entry here by Arms, and Establishment by marriage. Yet the times proved to him, like strong Tides, full of Swellings, but well mannaged by the wisdome of an able Pylot, through all storms; being of himself the most sufficient Sovereign of any his Predecessours. Between Him and Iames the fourth, there had been distempers, ever espousing the French Quarrels. And therefore their times produced sundry great mutations, treacherous, false and deceiving, the events belying the Beginnings. Princes mostly inconsiderate, before they imbarque, whether their Wars be just or necessary, and may serve Examples of great mens frailty.

After the death of Henry the seventh, succeeded his Son Henry the eight, young and wealthy, whose actions had more of Gallantry than Honour, though he meddled with the mixed Affairs for ballancing the Western Monarchy amongst the Pretenders, Germany, Spain and France, with the change of Religion to reformed. And so soon as ingaged against Louis of France, Iames interposed, as to divert him. Enters upon Ireland, invades the English Borders, and after comes to handy blowes in Northumberland. The English six and twenty thousann, the Scots many more; and at Flowden Field 1513. a wondrous slaughter on both sides, and Iames in the Fight was lost, as in a Fog, for ever; though he acted so well his affected Popularity, that his loss became more disconsolate to his People, than any his Predecessors.

His Son succeeds,James 5. a cradle King, seventeen Moneths old, under Tutelage of his Mother, who implores Henry her Brother, for compassion upon a Widow-Sister, and an Orphan-Nephew, not to wage War, but to defend them. He answers like himself, With the mild he was meek, and with the froward he could fight. But she too weak for her wild Subjects, marries with the Earl of Angus, and being disdained for matching so meanly, the Duke of Albany, of Scots race (begotten in Exile) is sent for out of France to govern them at home. The success may soon be imagined; for the Scots heretofore had killed Iames the first, covenanted with Iames the second, overthrown Iames the third, and (some say) mislaied Iames the fourth, and now hardly submit to a Stranger.

The Queen and Angus fly to England, and here she is brought to Bed of Margaret, Grand-Mother to King Iames the sixth. Conspiracies increase in Scotland, fomented from Henry the eighth, till horrid Rapines, wearied each party into a Peace at home, and England also.

And thus freed from War for a time, the Governour Duke [Page] executes Justice upon such whose former fewds had made but suspitious, and so he wearied with doing evil, returns into France to settle their Solemn League.

He gone Henry the eight sends home the Queen and Angus, and having this while composed his French Quarrels, with a Defensitive Amity against all. Tourney rendred to the French, and Overtures of a Match between the Dolphin and Henries Sister, and not a word for the poor Scots, that had lost their King in the French Dispute, only interceding for a Cessation of Arms with the English, and so accepted for Henries conveniency of Princely Interview with Louis.

The while supporting Angus and his Faction, their own Civil Dissentions sufficient to busie themselves, and to keep matters in much disorder; the policy of England and France both to weaken the Scots power for eithers prey, which being suspected by Albany, now in France, and the violent Fewds beginning fresh at home, after five years absence, he gets loose of the English Ships, that lay wait in his way, and Lands in Scotland.

The Governour come, he sets things strait again, which by his absence were made awry; forces Angus into France, many suffer besides; others more factious fly into England, and pretend the Dukes sudden return, was to ingage that Nation against Henry, who in rage sends to the Governour to be gone to his French Friends, or to expect blowes; and was answered as peremptorily, That in case of War, he knew better to defend than the other to fight.

King Henry in fury sets fines on some Scots here, and after banishes all, and presently pursues with invasions upon their Nation by Sea and Land. And over to England comes the Emperour, instigating the King to fall out with France; the like Empirick Balm the French apply to cure the wounds of the Scots Commonwealth; which prevailed so far, that both Armies meet, but the Scots would not fight; the English fire all before them, and the Governour not affected with the Scots falshood returns back to France for ever.

Angus gets home again, countenanced by Henry, assumes the person of the King (now thirteen years old) concludes a lasting Peace with England, and proposes a Marriage between the young King, and the Princess Mary; which Henry in heart desired, untill he heard of the French King Prisoner at Pavia, by the Emperour, so the match was put off, upon pretence for the Emperours consent her neerest Kinsman.

The Queen displeased with her Husbands Supremacy over her Self and Son; and both agreed to dislike each others Bed (for it was fatal to her, as to her Brother Henry to love change in [Page] [...]

[Page] And forthwith followed Divisions of Religion in Scotland also, with Disputes and Arguments for Toleration, excellently urged in [...]avour of the Reformed; but the Catholique Clergy prevailed; and the Inquisition erected to force the other with Fire and Fagot.

[...]

The first that suffered in suspition of those attempts, were the Hameltons, of Kin to the Crown; which wrought factions to such height as that King Henry takes heart, begins by Incursions, where the English were soundly beaten. And then in Revenge Howard, stiled the Old Earl of Norfolk, is sent with formidable Forces, 40000. to 30000. (if the sums are not mistaken) either party so numerous, as to eat up all and starve themselves, But upon some distrust of success, the Earl retreats. The Scots pursue this advantage. And the next Spring mutiny among themselves, and at Salloway Moss the English gave them a mighty defeat; which so astonished King Iames, that with wondrous regret he forced death, over hastily to seize him; at the instant, when his Queen was delivered of a Daughter, the only issue remaining to succeed him in his Throne.

And with he begins our History, The Life and Death of his Daughter Mary Queen of Scotland, taking up the Remain of Henry the eighth, who lived not long after, leaving his three children succeeding Sovereigns, yet thought him not worthy memory by any Monument.

Edward the sixth, whose short raign and youth, supported by a wise Council, held up what was left him by Succession.

Untill the Soveraignty fell to his Sister, with alteration of all and hazard of all, she being imbarqued in body and business to a Strangers Supremacy: but not lasting long time,

[Page] Was left to a Virgin, to recover desperate dangers, Ecclesiashick and Civil, with various Designs, Impressions and Operations upon her Neighbour States; imbroyled with her jealousies to infamy of destruction in the blood of Q. Mary of Scotland, her neerest kinswoman and pretended Competitor in the Crown, untill at last in Gods due time the Sovereignty fell to a Foreiner.

King Iames, with re-union of the antient Title of Britain, Elizabeth indeed succeeded in the Inheritance begotten by H. 8. upon Ann Bullen; after his divorce from Katharine his Brothers widow, by whom he had Q. Mary, and that mariage dispensed with by the Pope. Hence did arise a question;

Whether the Divorce was legal, or Elizabeth legitimate? when Adam was created, Eve was taken out of him, and made Woman, a fit Instrument for prolification and Society. And both married in Paradice, God the Father being the Priest, and the Angels Witnesses; for which cause, A man shall leave Father and Mother and cleave to his Wife. They begat Sons and Daughters, which were Brothers and Sisters, and married one the other without contradiction, untill the Flood, nay, after the Flood, untill Moses writ. And these Marriages were not against the Moral Law written in their hearts (which being much obliterated in the faculties of the Soul by reason of Adams transgression, when Moses writ the Law of Nature (or Law of Reason) it was therefore twice written in Tables of Stone, that by reading those Precepts (which were much defaced within) man might repair, in some measure, those Laws almost blotted out by sin. And so by reading get them into his Understanding, Will and Memory, Mans Knowledge comming most naturally by Sense. Moses did not onely write this Morall Law in Stone, but gave many positive Laws for the Pedagogie of the Iews untill Christ, as the Ceremonial and Iudicial. The Iudicial Lawes, amongst other things did forbid Marriages in cases of blood and affinity, and these continued until Christs time, and no longer, unless there were a Moral Equity in them, which Morality is onely inter Ascendentes & descendentes, where there is a kind of Paternity and Fi [...]ation, for Filius non portabit iniquitatem Patris; and for that sin Iacob cursed Reuben, for ascending his Fathers bed. This ground being truly laid, it was conceived, there is no Law of God in force, but that which is between Ascendents and Descendents. It is true, every Church hath made Laws to bind people in their Churches; but it was insisted upon only in this, That the Moral Law doth not forbid, and the Ceremonial and Iudicial Laws are now abrogated. In Sir Giles Allingtons case (not long since) who married his Sisters Daughter, there was a sin against the Moral Law, and so they were divorced. But it was said in that case, that if the Aunt had married the Nephew, it had been [Page] a greater sin, because the Au [...]t being in loco Parent is to the Nephew, he by such marriage being Husband to the Aunt, became by that Relation Superiour to his Parent, which did aggravate the offence. So then that which is to be insisted upon is the law Moral, which is the constant and permanent will of God, both in the Church Triumphant and Militant. So that Adam could never marry any, if he had lived until this time, being the common Parent of Mankind in the Old World, and Noah in the New.

And thus much concerning the Divorce, and Elizabeths Title.

But to conclude, it comes to be our Task to enter upon this work of Mother and Son, and to enliven their Memories with their [...]ives and Actions, not singly neither, but contemporary too, with such Affairs of State, as intermixes with others of Europe. As also the State Militant of the Scots Kirk in Persecution, Motion, and at Peace, in relation to the Arks, upon the Water, in the Wilderness, and in the Temple. The Materials of All need no Ornament, but adjustment. ‘Bona fama, propria possessio Defunctorum.’

And if ever to any of old, stiles and additions were allowed, properly and truly they may challenge,

Piae Memoriae,

Bonae Memoriae,

Felices Memoriae, as due to them.

I dare not appropriate to my self abilit [...] in these as to a Compile. I rather wish it compleat in another, endeavouring onely to set down such particular Actions Memorative, as may hereafter enlighten abler pens to consummate. Those Collections hereby commended to posterity for that purpose; To raise a better Structure out of this imperfect Rubish.

Index of the first Part to the entrance of King JAMES to the Crown of England.

[Page]

THe Introduction of K. James 5. and his Wife, and of their Daughter Queen Mary, their story in brief to the Birth of King James 6. from page 1. to 8.

A.

Acts concerning Episcopacy 110

Ambassadours privilege discussed 74

abused 97

Ambassadours about Marriage with Denmark 137

Ambassadours sent by the King to forrein Princes concerning succession to the Crown of England 219

Angus and other fugitives in England, their insolence 105 dies bewitched 135

Queen Ann's design to seize the Prince 183

Army of the English and Scots slain 13

Armies of the Queen against the Lords 38

Armstrong a prisoner in England set free by force of Arms with a trick 191

difference hereupon 192

Arch-bishop of St: Andrews dies, and is abused by the Ministery 160

Earl of Arran's plot 27

dies, his character and issue 84

Earl of Arran his power in state 105

Earl of Arundel arreigned 154

Six Articles of the Church 36

Ministers assemble at pleasure 26

Assembly petition and are answered 158

Assembly make work 194

Blake his mutiny and story 196

the Assembly assist him 199

dangerous tumult 202

Qu: Elizabeth interposes, her Letter to the King 204

Lord Aubigny in favour with King James 93

displeases Queen Elizabeth. ib.

B.

BAbington's treason 114

Basilicon Do [...]on, the occasion of it in publick 223

Beaton Cardinal murthered 11

Beza and Calvin at Geneva 16

[Page] Bishops restored 104

Bishopricks, the state thereof in Scotland 224

Blake his mutiny and story 196

turn'd out of all 213

Blunt sent into Ireland 242

Borders of Scotland how bounded 44

Borderers confer and quarrel 83

Borderers in feud 137

Bothwel flies into France 35

advanced in favour of the Queen 42

visited of the Queen 44

is divorced 47

marrieth the Queen 49

desires the single combat, and flies with the Queen 50

flies into Denmark 59

Bothwel accused of Witchcraft 159

is committed, and escapes 160

Bothwel's treason to seize the King 164

Bothwel's attempts at Faulkland defeated 167

Bothwel steals into Scotland and surprizes the King 171

inforces Articles 172

Bothwel arms, and is defeated 177

Bothwel and Popish Lords rebell 180

are defeated 181

Bothwel flies, and dies at Naples 182

Burleigh's Speech to the Scots Ambassadours 94

Lord Burrough Ambassadour to the King 170

C.

CAles Voyage 210

Articles at Calice 19

Calvin and Beza their Discipline at Geneva 16

that Confession 44

Catholick Lords of Scotland dismayed, plot, rebell 145, 146

their designs 147

Cecil's Letter to Knox 22

Cecil writes to King James, and his Answer 258

Chancellour of Scotland dies, his character 184

Chatelet executed 39

Colvil Ambassadour to England complains of Zouch 177

Of single Combats and Duels 53

C [...]mmissioners treat about [...] Scots Queen 63

and again 78

Commissioners meet to treat of Peace with France and Spain, dispute about Precedency 143

Conspiratours executed 104

Coin over-valued 91

Crag a Minister, his Life and Death 132

D.

LOrd Darley returns out of banishment 34

marries the Queen 37

is debarred bearing of Royal Arms 40

turns Protestant 41

is discontented 43

and murthered 46

his character 47

Davison's Letter to the Ministers 251

Designs in England for Queen Mary 103

Discipline framed 25

and subscribed 26

Duke of Tuscany fore-warns King James of Poyson 231

E.

EDenburgh Castle besi [...]ed and won 80

Queen Elizabeth expostulates the Rebellion of Scots Lords, moderates the Scots differences 76

Qu: Elicabeth aids Navar 156

and the Dutch ib.

raises her Custom 157

Queen Elizabeth strikes Essex 221

Queen Elizabeth dies 261

Lady Elizabeth born 194

Christned 199

English confederate with Scots reformed, and how 22

English expedition to Portugal 154

English take Cales 210

Acts concerning Episcopacy 110

Essex his expedition into France 162

his Voyage to the Azores 215

Essex and Cecil's intelligence with King James 2 [...]4

Essex his Treason 233

F.

FActions and Feuds 168

The first Fast general of the Kirks 40

Forrein Titles their precedency at home disputed 21

French aid the Scots 13

quarter the Arms of England [...]9

King of France killed at a Tilting 20

King Francis of France dies 25

French break the League with England 25

French King relieved by Queen Elizabeth, turns Papist 169

France hath aid of England against Spain 220

Fr [...]h Ambassadour and Cecil discourse about the Kings succesion 258

G.

OF Geneva, their Government, Church and State 15

the promulgation of that Discipline 18

Geneva besieged 225

Earl Gowry created 95

surpri [...]es the King at Ruthen 96

his Imprisonment, Arreignment and Execution 100

Gowry's conspiracy [...]

Lord Gray's design to kill [...], he is banished.

H.

HAcket's horrible Tenets, Disciples, Blasphemy, Execution 162, 163

Prince Henry born 176

his Baptism 179

Huntley rescues Colonel Semple 141

writes to Parma, and the King of Spain 146

rebells 147

committed and adjudged guilty 149, 150

Huntley and Murray quarrel 159

Huntley cause of Murray's death 165, 166

I.

KIng James born 42

baptized 45

King James and his Mother in faction and feud 80

is crowned 90

his appearance in Parliament, his Speech 92

King James surprized 96

[Page] makes a Feast, and the Kirk makes a Fast 98

frees himself 98

Proclamation against Iesuits 148

Iesuits, their Seminaries, confirmed by the Pope 164

Interests of Fa [...]ions discussed 68

I [...]ish Rebells 161, 209

Don Juan de Austria his design against England blasted 87

K.

KIng's design to meet his Bride in Norway, disposes his Government 150

marries the Queen and goes into Denmark 152

his Queen arrives in Scot [...]and and is crowned 153

Kirk have what they desire, manner of their Excommunication 45

ingratefull, prescribe behaviour to the Church of England 46

stiled Precisians 84

Kirk stirs the State being troubled 166

Kirkmen in Scotland mutiny 137, 138

John Knox Minister the prime Incondiary of Reformation 12

his Travels and Faction, accused of Treason 15

arrives in Scotland and begins Troubles 20

insolency towards Morton, and con [...]ers with the Queen 31

his Breves to his Brethren, he is questioned 33

his insolency 34

preaches against Government 38

L.

ANtient League between the Scots and French 12

Holy League 106

Holy Leaguers 155

League offensive and defensive between England and Scotland 112

Lenox and Darly return from banishment 34

Lenox elected Regent 69

is slain 77

his old Countess dies, her Descent and Issve 87

Lewis Isle reduced in the North, and the effect 256

Lords take Arms and are defeated, fly into England and get aid, and submit 39

banished, and return 42

Lords conspire, declare, seize the King at Sterlin, and treat 107

Love-trick of a Woman 168

M.

MArriage proposed between England and Scotland 10

Marriage of King James with a Sister of Denmark propounded 107

Ambassadours about that Marriage 137

Earl of Mar Regent 77

dies 78

Northern Martyrs 9

Queen Mary sent into France 14

returns out of France 25

Queen Mary affects the Lord Darly 34

and proposes to marry him 36

she answers the six Articles of the Kirk and marries Darly 37

takes Arms against the Lord, 38

[Page] is brought to bed of King James 42

Summary of the Lord Darley's murther, and of the Queens hasty Marriage 48

Queen Mary resigns the Government to her Son King James 52

is defeated, flies into England, and writes to Queen Elizabeth 62

Queen Mary imprisoned, her Commissioners treat in England 63

Queen Mary designed to dy 86

writes to Queen Elizabeth 95

Queen Maries story returned to 113

Queen Mary comes to her Trial 115

the manner thereof ib.

her Sentence of Death 116

the sequel 117

King James perplexed sends to Queen Elizabeth Letters, Ambassadours who reason with her 118, 120

false Tales, Scotland in disorder, the Kirk refuseth to pray for Queen Mary ib.

Mandate for her Execution, the manner thereof 121

her Epitaph 126

Queen Elizabeths Letter to King James 126

Davison sentenced about Qu▪ Maries Death, his Apology to Walsingham 127

Walsingham's Letters to the King and the Lord Thirlstan 128

the Kings Deportment on his Mothers Death 134

is caressed by Queen Elizabeth 134

Designs of several Nations to revenge her Death 135

Massacre of Protestants [...] France 83

Mass opposed 26

Melvil a Disciplinarian his railings 82

a fiery spirit 85

his evil manners 100

Insolency against the Mass 32

Maxwel arms against Johnstone 106

rebells, and is taken Prisoner 138

Messam the Minister hath a Bastard 29

his penance 42

Ministers assemble at pleasure 26

allowed maintenance by Modificators 27

vote themselves exempt [...] justice 28

Ministers denounced Rebells fly into England 102

Ordinance of Parliament against them, and for what reasons 102

their impudent Reply sharply answered 103

Ministers and their insolence 109

cause of good Acts ib.

Ministers in tumult 174

Blake a Minister his mutiny and story 196

Welch a Minister his preaching 202

Ministers refuse to give God thanks for the Kings Deliverance, and are silenced ib.

Earl Morton Regent 78

basely betrays the Earl of Northumberland 80

besieges Edenburgh 80

his Coin 82

Misgoverns, the Lords conspire against him 88

[Page] offers to resign 89

Morton deposed, plots revenge 90

imprisons the Chancellour 92

is charged with murthering the Lord Darly, is executed, his Character 95

Mowbray's intent to kill the King 257

Mu [...]ay made Protector 59

takes Arms 60

posts to Queen Elizabeth 67

is slain 68

Murray slain 166

the cause, lamented ib.

Murther of the Guises; and Henry 3. of France 153

N.

NArration of the Spanish Navy 141

number of the Ships, Men, and Ammunition 142

defeated by Fire-ships 145

Queen Elizabeths message thereof 141

Rumours of the Spanish Navy in 88. 140

the Kings Speech thereupon, the Chancellours opinion, Bothwel on the contrary, Colonel Semple's false Designs ib.

is rescued by Huntley, who is banished the Court 141

Netherlands called to account 209

[...] of Norfolk committed, his story 68

arreigned and executed 78

Norris sent over to Ireland 209

Earls of Northumberland and Westmerland fly into Scotland 68

betrayed by Morton, and executed 80

Earl of Northumberland pistols himself 114

Northumberland writes to King James, and his Answer 259

O.

ORmston executed about the murther of the Lord Darly 84

P.

THe Kirks justice against Papists 30

Papists Plots 169

Papists banished [...]8

Papists Plots, devising [...] Titles of Pretende [...] to the Crown of England 188

Parliament surprised 77

Parliament Royal 91

Parliament wherein the Kings Supremacy is con [...]irmed, and divers Laws against [...] enacted 104

Duke of Parma dies 170

Paulet Lord Treasurer dies, his childrens children [...] 76

Antonio de Perez 86

Perez his character 189

Popish Lords return from banishment 194

Presbyters fly into England, and why 104

their equivocation ib.

Proceedings against Popish Lords by the Ministers 173

Propositions for Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth 67

R.

RAndolph Ambassadour 91

abuses his privilege 94

dies 161

Rebells defeated 29

Rebells submit, and are committed 149

Reformed rebell 20

covenant and call in Aid [Page] French and English 21

covenant to expell the French 24

Articles of their Faith, France their Presbytery 24

Reformation in the University 213

Religion. The Scots how Christians 8

Remonstrance of the Assembly against Papists, and the remedy 178, 179

Ri [...]t com [...]itt [...]d by the Lords 27

Rizzio th [...] French Secretary 39

Bishop of Rosse Ambassadour for the Scots Queen examined 73

is rel [...]ed imprisonment 83

his Death and character 208

S.

SIiege of Ost [...]nd 252

Earl of Shrewsbury dies 161

Spanish Forces land in Ireland and are defeated 254

Squire impoysons the Queens Saddle 221

T.

TItles forrein their precedency at home dispu [...]ed 211

Treaty at Cambray 19

at [...]denburgh 24

U.

UNiversity reformed 213

W.

WAde sent into Spain returns unheard 103

Walsingham dies, his character 160

War in Scotland and France by the English 10

assist several Factions 21

Welch a Minister his preaching 202

Witches. See Bothwel. Witches discovered 2 [...]3

Wotton sent Ambassad [...] to Scotland 206

Wotton plots with the c [...]spiring Lords, and posts home 107

Z.

LOrd Zouch Ambassadour from England [...]ment [...] the send against the King 176

Narrative Passages of the first Part and stories, to be read single by themselves.

[Page]

[...]

[...]

[...] of Geneva 15

Queen Maries Marriage with the Lord Darly 36

[...]

[...] and story 42

Darly the Queens Husband murthered 48

Narrative of Darly's murther, &c. 52

Digression, of Combates and [...] 53

Queen Maries escape out of Prison in Scotland, her Encounter with her Rebells, she is discomfited and flies into England 60

Digression, of Ambassadours privilege 74

Massacre of Protestants in France 83

Episcopacy in Scotland continued [...]

Bab [...]ngton's Treason [...]14

Queen of Scots her Trial in England 115

sentenced and [...] of Execution 121

Secretary Walsingham's Letter concerning the Execution of the Queen of Scots [...]8

The Spanish N [...]vies Design against England in the year 1588. 141

King James 6. sends Commissioners first, and goes over himself to fetch his Queen from Denmark

Concernments of France with the murther of Henry 3. 155

Hacket's horrible Tenets, arreigned and executed 162

Ministers mad work 194

Digression how far, forrein Titles precede in England 211

Digression concerning the power of Witches and Witchcraft 214

[Page] Earl Gowry's conspiracy against King James 225

Earl of Essex his Treason against Queen Elizabeth 233

Irish affairs under Lord Blunt Deputy of Ireland 242

English Commissioners in France dispute Precedency 243

These particular Passages of the Second Part may be read by themselves apart.

[Page]

[Page]

INtroduction to the Second Part page 2

Of Knights Batchelors 271

Of the Order of the Garter, and Saint George his story 273

Of Earls, and their Dignities 274

Of Barons, and their Dignities 275

Knights of the Bath their Creation 276

Digression, concerning Imperial Rule, and Interest of Christian Princes 277

Of War and Conquest, of Success, their Consequences 281

Sir Walter Raleighs Treason 282

Of Presbyterians Doctrines 289

Conference at Hampton Court 293

Translation of the Bible and singing Psalms 308

Catechising commended 310

Of Parliaments, their beginnings 312

King James first Speech in Parliament 319

The Powder Treason 323

The Oath of Supremacy, and K. James his Apology to Forein Princes 329

Of Iesuits how to suppress them 331

Libel against the Lord Treasuer Salisbury, and His answer 334

King James Speech and answer to the Arguments concerning the Union 338

Sprots Conspiracy with Gowry, his arraignment and Execution 342

Lord Balmerino his treacherous Design 348

King James his second Speech in Parliament 353

Duke of Gelders his Descent and Death 361

Prince of Wales, their Dignity 362

Of Chelsey Colledge 365

Of Masks and Comedies 366

Suttons Hospital founded 367

Of Vorstius and Arminius, their Books and Doctrines 370

Prince Henries Sickness and Death 377

[Page] Treasurer Lord Salisbury his Life and Death 381

[...]

[...] James 391

Earl of Northampton's Life and Death 393

Of Duels and Combats 394

Of Plantations in America 400

Of Bar [...]nes Knights creation 402

King James wants discussed how to be relieved 404

Earl of Somerset & his Countess arreigned 414

His Letter to K. James 420

The case of Commendams 424

Difference between the Chancery and Common Pleas, and their Dignities 431

King James his Speech in Starchamber 439

Sir Thomas Lake and his wives story 446

King James journey into Scotland 450

George Villiers a favourite his story 455

Sir Walter Ralegh's Guiana Voyage and Execution 459

A monstrous Murther in Cornwall 463

Barnevelt's Treason and Execution 466

Of Synodes and Councils, Synode of Dort 467

[...]

[...] of Bohemia 478

Sir Henry Wootton's Embassy into Germany 485

Marriages with forrein Princes unfortunate to England 487

Earl Marshalls of England their Dignities 505

Of Libells and Pasquils 526

Of Knights Templers 527

Preachers ordered their matter and manner 531

King of Spain's Letter to O [...] vares, and his Answer conc [...]rning the Princes Match 539

Prince Charls journey into Spain his Treatments and return 542

Spanish Ambassadour accuses the Duke of Buckingham of Treason 562

Prince Charls Marriage with France treated and affected 566

Treasurer Cranfield put out of Office 573

Of Apprentices of London, they are no bond-men, discussed 574

Cruelty of Amboyna 576

Famous Siege of Breda 579

The INDEX to the second Part.

[Page]

A.

QU Ann sent for out of Scotland, her Design to seize the Prince, p. 272

Her Death and Character, 774

Ambassadour French and Spanish quarrel 320

Weston and Conway Ambassadours into Germany 482

Lord Haies Ambassadour into France 428

Lord Rosse Ambassy into Spain 429

Spanish Ambassadour accuses the Duke of Buckingham of Treason, the story 562

Assembly of the Scots Kirk in spite of the King 321, & 475

Aid-money 363

Arminius and Vorstius their Heresies and story 370

Adamites Heresies 375

Abbot Arch-Bishops Arguments against the Nullity of Essex, and his Countess answered 391

Kills his Keeper 530

Arreignment of the Earl of Somerset and Countess for impoysoning of Overbury 414

Arreigning of Peers discussed 414

Lady Arabella marries Seymer 423

Marquess D' Ancre murthered in France 549

Abbot Arch-Bishop his Letters concerning the King of Bohemia 481

Earl Arundel Lord Marshal their Dignities 505

Of Apprentices of London no Bond-men 574

Cruelty of the Dutch at Amboyna 576

B.

BArons created 271

their Dignities 275

Beaton Arch-Bishop dies in France 271

Batchelour Knights manner of Creation 276

Bible new translated 308

Balmerino Secretary of Scotland his Treason and story, pardoned, he and his posterity ungratefull 348

Bishops of Scotland enlarge their power 350

Baronet Knights created and discussed 402

Benevolence and means of the Kings supplies discussed 407

Sir Francis Bacon made Lord Chancellour 437

his submission in Parliament and supplication 501

his Character 503

his Encomium of King James 594

Barnevelt in Holland his Treason and execution 465

Blazing Star their effects discussed 471

[Page] King and Queen of Bohemia defeated and fly into Holland 485

Breda that famous Siege 579

and lost 589

Briante, Botevile and Beauvoir their several Duels and Combats 582

Bolton's contemplation on King James 594

C.

KIng and Queen crowned 275

Cor [...]nation-oath 276

Conference at Hampton-court to settle the Discipline of the Church 282

Catechizing commanded 310

Commotion of Commoners 312

Charls Prince created Duke of York 322

High Commission Court 352 356

Chelsey College founded, and why 365

Contribution money 367

Car a Favourite and his Countess their story 376

arreigned for impoysoning Overbury 414

the case pleaded 416

condemned, reprieved and pardoned 419

his Letter to the King 420

The case of Commendams, the Kings right to them pleaded, and passages thereupon 424

Lord Chancellour and Lord Cook difference, the cause and case 431

the Kings Letters to the Chancellour, his sickness and death 432

Common Pleas Court what 434

Chancery Court and power 435

Chancellour Sir Francis Bacon succeeds 437

Church of Scotlands proceedings 475

Cranfield Lord Treasurer 495

questioned in Parliament, and put out 572

Calumnies answered 535

Combates at Breda 582

D.

DIgression, designs for Imperial rule in Christendo [...] 27 [...]

King of Denmark his first arrival to visit the Queen his Sister 333

second arrival 413

E. Dorset Lord Treasurer dies 342

Of Duels 394

Dort Synode 467

Lord Digby Ambassadour to the Empire 495

returns accounts to the Parliament 509

sent into Spain to treat in the Match 524

ordered by Letters how to proceed 536

created Earl of Bristol 539

is to forbear the Espousals 555

takes leave of Spain 556

and is come home to the Parliament 563

Designs at the Siege of Breda 584

E.

QUeen Elizabeth not willing to publish her Successour 261

Earls created 274

their Dignities 275

Excommunicatiou absurd in Scotland 368

Earl of Essex, and his Countess, [Page] and Overbury, their story intermixed 385

their Divorce and manner 386

[...] Earls created for money 463

The Emperour in Arms concerning the Kingdom of Bohemia 480

Egglesham his scurrilous Pamphlet 592

F.

FAvourite Car his story 376

Villiers a Favourite his story 455

G.

SAint George's Feast and his story, Order of the Garter 273

Gowry's day of Conspiracy solemnized, the memorial 312

H.

KIng Henry 8. turns Protestant, makes war with Scotland, defeats them Proeme Henry 4. of France murthered 362

Prince Henry created Prince of Wales, their Dignities 362

his sickness and death 377

Hospital of Sutton founded 367

Honors illegally adopted in Scotland 369

Heresies of Vorstius and Arminius their story 370

Of Adamites 375

Lord Haies Ambassadour into France, and character 428

Earl Huntley of Scotland his story 444

Titles of Honor to English women 458

Sir Edward Hawley a stout Templer 524

Marquess Hamilton's sudden death 590

I.

KIng James 5. dies, his character 3

King James 6. his parents 1

Introduction, Queen Elizabeths sickness and death 265

King James 6. settles his affairs in Scotland 265

pro [...]aimed King of England 268

sets out from Scotland 269

his interest with other Princes 280

Letters of Reprieve for three ready to be executed 287

his Speech in Star-chamber 439

Iourney into Scotland and passages there 45 [...]

his Letters to the [...]ssembly at Perth 475

his Speech to the Parliament 493

and again to the Lords 497

retires discontent to Newmarket 509

writes to the Speaker 510

his message to the Parliament 512

his Answer to their Petition 513

writes to Secretary Calvert 520

and to the Speaker 521

fights and treats 538

his Speech in Parliament 557

and again 560

answers their Petition against Papists 564

his sickness, disease, and dies 591

vindicated 592

his character and royal memory 594

[Page] and Epitaph 599

K.

KNights Batchelors made and their Dignities 270

Knights Templers 527

Knights Baronets created and discussed 402

Knights of the Bath their manner and creation 276

Kings elective and successive their different kindes 480

Lord Kensington his birth and breeding 429

Embassage into France about the Marriage 566

quarrels with Count Soisons 569

L.

LEpton's speedy post to York from London and back again six several days together 333

Sir Thomas Lake and his Lady their story 446

of Labells and Pasquils 526

answered by Treasurer Salisbury 381

M.

EArl Montgomery the first Favourite 365

careless of the Kings sickness 592

Masks and Plays discussed 366

Queen Mary of Scotland her Corps re-interred at Westminster 376

Moneys the King wants and ways of supply 404

restrains his bounty 406

Money of Benevolence 407

Merch. Traders make fe [...]ds 313

Cross Marriages of Spain, France and Sav [...]y 417

congratulated by Embassies 428

Murther monstrous in Cornwall 463

Murther of D'Ancre in France 449

Murther of Henry 4. of France 362

Marriages with forrein Princes unfortunate to England 487

Match with Spain, the Princes journey and story 524

Marriage of the Palsgrave with the Princess Elizabeth 377

married 380

Marriage of the Prince with France treated 566

Marquess Buckingham created, and the Dignity of a Marquess 489

Montague made Lord Treasurer his Descent and Issue 490

Mansel Sir Robert his Expedition and Voyage against the Pi [...] rats of Algier 491

Michel and Mompesson censured in the Parliament 500

Earl Marshal of England their dignity 505

Massacre at Virginia 528

Count Mansfield comes to Holland, raises Forces in England for the Netherlands 587

N.

EArl of Northumberland and other Lords censured as guilty of the Pouder Treason 334

Earl of Northampton dies, his concernments 393

O.

OAth of Allegeance 315

and Supremacy 316

the Popes Bull against it, the Kings Apology to all Princes [Page] thereof 329

Earl of Orkney commited 352

his Execution 398

Sir Thomas Overbury his story 383

impoysoned 393

discovered 414

Oglevey a Iesuit his story 398

Earl of Oxford his descent 483

he and Essex carries Souldiers into Germany 483

joyn Forces with the Princes against the Emperour, they are beaten and fly 485

he is committed in England and the occasion 523

Prince of Orange dies 588

Earl of Oxford's Enterprize at the Siege of Breda 588

P.

A Notable Present 270

Presbyterians, Reclamations against them and their Doctrines 289

Proclamations against Iesuits 306

to conformity of Religion and Discipline 321

against new buildings in London 3 [...]1

another against buildings 360

to dissolve the Parliament 522

Prophesie of these times 311

Parliaments and their beginning 312

the Kings Speech in the first Meeting 319

second Session 323

third Speech 352

dissolved 362

Parliament called again 488

Prorogued 507

their Declaration to recove [...] the Palatinate 508

petition the King 511

their thanks and Petition 521

and are dissol [...]ed 52 [...]

another Parliament 555

petition against Papists 564

their Designs of W [...]r for the Palatinate 579

Pastimes harmless allowed, and recreations after Sermons 458

Pouder Treason 323

Post nati confirmed 340

Papists persecuted by Pens 364

Prince Palatine a Su [...]tor to the Princess Elizabeth 377

married 380

elected King of Bohemia, the occasions discussed, story and war 478

Proscriptions against him 482

raises an Army, defeated and flies into Holland 485

Pirates of Algier, expedition against them 441

Lords petition against Titles of forrein Honours 496

against grievances 497

Preaching how ordered 531

Papist and Puritan discussed 5 [...]3

Prince Charls his journey to Spain 542

arrives there 543

complements with the King 544

enters in triumph to Madrid 545

visits the Queen 546

her presents to the Prince 547

he answers the Popes Letters 548

takes leave to return 551

Presents given and received 552

his journey towards the Sea, and parting with the King 553

the Pillar at parting 554

in danger to be drown'd, the storm described 554

lands in England 555

Q.

QUeen Mother of France flies from them 450

Queen Ann sent for out of Scotland, and her designs to seize the Prince 272

she dies, her character 474

R.

Ralegh Sir Walter, his birth, breeding, preferment and treason 281

released imprisonment 459

his Guiana Voyage and Execution 469

Sir Harry Rich his birth and breeding discussed 429

made Baron Kensington, Ambassadour into France about the Marriage 566

quarrels with Soisons 565

Revolt of the Earls in Scotland 368

Rainbowe lunary 378

Duke of Richmond dies suddenly 557

S.

SUccess and consequence of events 281

Psalms new translated 309

Star-chamber, original and ending 334

the Kings Speech there 439

Earl of Salisbury his answer to a Libell 334

dies, his story 381

his Offices how disposed 383

Sprot confederate in Gowry's conspiracy, his Examination and Execution 342

Sanquire a Scots Baron hanged for murther of Turner 380

Earl of Somerset his story 376

his Letter to the King 420

Earl of Suffolk Treasurer sentenced in Star-chamber 437

Spalato Bishop comes into England, revolts again, and dies 449

Earl of Shrewsbury dies. 459

Synode of Dort 468

Of Synodes, Diet and Councils, their initiations 468

Spinola his Forces in Flanders 483

besieges Breda 579

T.

TReasurer Mountague 490

Treasurer Suffolk 437

U.

UNion of both Nations intended 320

argued, and the Kings answer 338

Vorstius and Arminius their Heresies and story 370

Villiers a favourite his story 455

Master of the Horse and Marquess 489

Earl and Duke 547

goes with the Prince into Spain 542

quarrels with Olivares 551

returns to the Ships 552

his Declaration to the Parliament 559

W.

WAr, the consequence 281

Whitgift Arch-Bishop dies 307

Waldenses vindicated 376

Sir Henry Wootton his Embassies to the Emperour and Princes in Germany 485

Dr. Williams Dean of Westminster and Bishop of Lincoln and Lord Keeper 504

his character 507

Y.

SIr Henry Yelverton Prisoner and why 499

his Letters to the Duke of Buckingham 500

THE PROEME TO THE Seeond Part.

[Page]

WE now enter on the second part, the Accession of a Crown rightly descended to King James by Succession from the Union of Marriage, long since to this re-union of Kingdoms now, as a period (in shew) of all Trepidation and Motions in him, and his Posterity, but the eye of all-seeing Wisdom, hath with his powerful hand of Providence dissipated those designs and aims of perpetuity, and hath not left any one of his, in present possession of any part of his inheritance. And though the prevailing Party minds no other Iustification than Success; yet some men more busie than useful take upon them by deformed writings and Pasquilles, to conclude this Fabrick from such Foundation as they please to contribute their Counterfeit Materials, with their Prophecies, Policies, Directories, Narratives, and such like stuff, the general blauch upon former Soveraigns. Each one professing Truth to countenance their affectiions and Passions, which alter too, with the subsequence of Time and State. And thereby comes to be published sundry Rapsodies, Petit-Pamphlets, and Papers. But yet if you deny their Tenents, you are forthwith to be taken for a State Heretique. ‘Non servata unitas, nisi in credendo omnia.’ [Page] [...]

For though there may be granted great Antipathy, between the former, and this State in Civil Policy, yet no such matter from thence, for our disobedience now; What ever may be pretended by Others, I conceive the People no meet Iudge or Arbitrator. For my part (I am witness to my self) as that no contradiction shall supplant in me the Reverence I ow to Authority Neither shall any Adve [...]saries by Calumny embase my Opinion and high Esteem of K. I [...]es his just Merits and Royal Memory. The Indisposition of these later times, having pierced with Accusations, very many Men of excellent Virtues. ‘Mala dicta ingenere, concinnatis calumniis.’

They leave all reve [...]end compassion t [...]ward [...] ev [...]s, or religious indignation towards faults; turn all into a Satyr, search and rip up wounds, with smiling impudence, and strain their counterfeit zeal to the publick, with untruths abominable. ‘Et magnis Mendacii Credulitas.’

Welcome whisperings are quickly heard, where potent malice is Promoter. They tragitally aggravate infirmities and slips, unworthily upbraiding adverse Fortunes; and that their belief herein, must necessarily be the more perfect, which is most degrees removed from the last Actors, and so becomes,

Postumi erroris filii:

Non tam in odium boni,

Quam amorem Mali

Proclives sumus, As one saith.

These Kingdomes in King James time, grown aged in happinesse [...] that as men used to say of the spiced air of the Sabaeans, ‘Summus quidem Odor, sed voluptas, Minor.’ The very excess seemed to abate the pleasure: Or as the hot sent of Musk to some Savors seem to stink.

[Page] Repetions of our Blessings then, did not so much affect our Nations as dull them. Peace made us wanton; Plenty [...], M [...] [...]ies secure; Our Benefits then became our Weapons to rebell against his fame now; The whole Land being sowred by the Peoples Sins, too much felicity introd [...]ed Luxury, and Correllaries of Vices▪ Pride, Ambition, Contempt of things Divine and [...]umane.

This Nation in short time sick of a surfeit of Health; afterwards broke with two much wealth; and now it comes to amendment. Ryot begins to grow thirsty, made so, to go plain, Gluttons, to fast; Wantonness, starved into Soberness.

But—we may already be affraid of Relapse; Bedrid Exorbitancies, fowl [...]r for purging.

Need is there none to number up the Graces and Blessings by this King in competition with Her, his Predecessor. It may be, Her virtues then are now become Torches in the dark, which appear greatest afar off, as His Vices (made so by some writers) do neer at hand.

I shall endeavour to recover the truth of his time, least slanderous Tongues, run mad with railing, they presuming to be got out of distan [...] of time, and reach of Confutation [...] So that Maiesty which dies not may yet be discouloured.

As in particular, a Writer indeed a few years since, holds forth, (he saies) The History of Great Brittain, but speaks not a word of Scotland or Ireland, and so this Vindication serves the turn to answer All.

But to give this Man therein his due, we may find truth and falsehood, finely put together (if it be his own) for it is my hap to meet with Post-nati; both these Books, born from the dead, and were Abor [...]ves; but like Bear-whelps, licked over by laborious Penmen.

The one a Manuscript of Sir A. W. which with some regret of what he had malitiously writ, intended to the fire, and dyed Repentant, though since stoln to the Press out of a Ladies Closet.

This Other, designed an Epistle for honourable Patronage, who disdained the owning. And so comes out bare Collections of Old. I knew of them, and their Parent Presbyter, put together by the Poet; And shaped out by the Doctor, and Wilsons Name, set to the Sale.

My aym is in these times of Distraction, to present to the p [...]blique the former fruits of Peace and Plenty, planted by Providence, and ripened to Maturity, by Divine Influence, throughout His Daies. If any failings, so much searched for, and to be found at last, are then to be attributed to his age, not Him. In declention of years not many Princes end in much splendor, when vigour fails, so does their fortune.

For my self, having lived long time in Court, and employed (till my gray hairs) more in Businesses than Books; far unworthy, I humbly [Page] confesse, to have any hand to the Helm, yee I cabin'd neer the Steerage, and so might the more readily Run the compass of the Ships-Way. And truly I traversed aboard too, though not in Counsel with Masters or Mates; observing also the Heights and Declinations of the Sun and Stars, the better able to evidence their Actions and Influence upon our World.

Add herein to be read in few howers, what have been reaped in many years, These undeniable Truths, which I have seen and heard.

Will. Sanderson.

The LIVES and DEATHS of MARIE Queen of SCOTLAND, And of Her Son and Successor JAMES The Sixt of that name, King of SCOTLAND, And of Great BRITAIN, FRANCE and IRELAND the First.

[Page]

Introduction.

KINGS are Gods upon Earth; God himself hath said so;Of King Iames parents to his Birth. Intituling Them to this Dignity, with power over their People: But they shall die like Men; Humbling their Souls for a blessed End; Lest their Greatness here, should make them careless of their Glory hereafter; Death being the entrance into eternal life.

And so much honour is done to Them, that the Old Testament affords four Books of the Kings; two of which are particular Chronicles of their Persons and Actions, with many other memorable passages of Kings, mentioned promiscuously both in the Old and New Testament; besides those Books not extant, of their wonderfull works, to which much is referred by Holy-writ.

[Page] And it hath been held sacred, with most Nations, not to leave their Soveraigns long buried in the Graves of Oblivion. And if so of most KINGS, why not of these so well deserving, Mary the Mother, and JAMES Her Son and Successor [...]

They came into the World when all was on fire, not peace in any part. All Europe in a Militia. The East had much to do for Defence against the Turk; The West in Offence one with the other; The North at variance with their neighbours; The South had influence upon them all. A Massy body of War, in several Postures, and each Army of sundry Brigades; Onely Himself never had an Enemy.

I desire to bring together much of the main into little, and in due place to observe, out of all, what particular Interest became this King; The measure of whose Glory may be taken by its Profundity, which onely in him held out long and even.

Let us be mindfull of their Descent. She was sole Daughter and Heir to Iames Stuart, Their descent. the fift of that Name, and the 108. King of SCOTLAND; begotten upon Mary his Queen, of that Illustrious Family of the Dukes of Lorain; Maried to him at Saint Andrews, Iuly 1538.

About the time,H. 8. turns Lutheran, when Henry 8. of England became Lutheran, whom the Pope Excommunicates and interdicts His Dominions, and with more than malice moves the Emperour and French King to be His Enemies. To palliate such potency, He procures an Interview with them at Nice, a Maritime Town in the Confines of Provence; And being returned, desires Conference with the King of Scotland at New Castle: And makes war with Scotland, But in time of preparation, the English fall fowl with the Scotch Borderers. Both parties arm, with equal number, about 30000. Iames himself in person; The Duke of Norfolk for the English, meet upon the Confines. The young and daring King, with the advantage of his own ground, and neer home, puts the Old Duke to advise, and retreat. And the next year, heightned the Scotch with an Army of 10000, to affront the English Borders; who hastily raise considerable Forces, and ready for the onset, the Scotch Lords, envious against the choice of their General Oliver Saintclair, And defeats them. though a man not deserving Malice, an excellent Commander; yet they refuse to fight, basely suffering themselves to be Prisoners, not only to the power of the Sword, but also to the wanton insolencies of Boies and Women, who haltring them by hundreds, drove them home into England.

Ill News hath wings, which flew to the King at Falkland; whose youthfull spirit disdaining to out-live the infamy of his People, with monstrous regret on his perfidious Army, He willingly forced his own neglect of the necessities of natural support, Sustenance and Sleep, untill the weakness of his limbs, not [Page] able to bear the burthen of his body,K. of Scots dies, And his Daughter Mary born. He cast himself on his Bed; When tydings came of his Queen brought to bed of a Daughter and Heir (His two Sons Infants dying some years before) at which he sighed out these his last words. It will end as it began; the Crown came by a Woman, and by a Daugher it will return; King Henry will make it His, by Arms or Mariage: and turning aside from his Servants, sunk down into the deluge of Death, 13. December 1542. being 33. years of age, and the 32. of His Reign.

His Daughter Christned Mary five daies after, sole Heir of His Kingdome and Misfortunes, which She inherited to Her death. His body was solemnly and sumptuously intombed in the Abby Church of Holy-Rood-house. His Burial, Nor rested he after death: For Henry the eighth, though his Uncle, continued the advantages of this Defeat, and some years after razed the Church and Tomb equal with the Earth. Whose Body was afterwards, by the pious duty of his Grandson, Iames the sixt, removed to another Vault, embalmed again, and enshrined in a costly Monument, with Ensigns and Arms, the Dignities of his Crown and Kingdome.

This Kings Person was well made up,And Character. with advantage of an Excellent mind, of a middle stature, with abilities equal to any; The first that pursued his Enemies, and the last that left the Chase; discreetly liberal, sparing, only for spending upon necessary disbursments; well affected to Letters, wherein he adventured in some verses of Poesie.

If we examine his Umbrages, as we make our prospect upon a Picture of lights and shadowes; Take him in the Circle of Himself, He was of worthy fame. What he was forced to do in justice upon Offenders, the Dowglasses by pursute, and others by Execution, must be wisely referred to the then consequences of State; which of late to him lay under the disease of two professions of Religion, Romish and Reformed, the latter increasing to the distemper of Him and his Successors.

His Daughter now left Heir to the Crown at eight daies old,Q. Maries entrance into he [...] Crown, and Troubles, (Age or Sex not debarring Hereditary Right, to rule over their People) which occasioned Her whole Life and Reign, most sad and troublesome to so excellent a Lady. To shadow out unto us, that Eternity is not on Earth; That Kings and Princes, seeming the best substance of Elements, and if possible incorruptible, as being the fairest Seals of Natures impression, yet these yield to the triumph of Death; not calmly neither, but by death dis-seasoned, in several conditions of their life, as well in Youth, as after Age; and so it fell out upon this Queen.

For,By Factions of Hamilton and Lenox. being thus young, Hamilton and Lenox, cheef Heads of two Factions, distracted all; the one depending on Henry the Eighth of England, whose only Son Prince Edward was afterwards [Page] affianced to Queen Mary; And Lenox supported by the French King, Henry the Second, an utter Enemy to this Match. These began the fewds, which fell by Parties into a mischievous civil War. And in respect her Person was aymed at by each of them, to make advantage; No sooner was Edward come to the Crown of England, but that Queen Mother, wise and prudent, sent Her at Six years old to the French King, and to the Duke of Guise, for their Breeding.

And with Her (to rid him for the present out of the way) went Iames Hamilton, Earl of Arran Her Guide. Earl of Arran, whom the French gained, and afterwards created Duke of Chaste'auleroy (He was the Grand-child-son of Iames the Second King of Scotland by His Daughter) Upon their return, he was Tutor and Governour of the Kingdome, and her Heir designed in her Minority. Of Him much is spoken hereafter: But as He was plain, and well meaning, vexed with other mens policies, so of himself he acted little; and yet, to his power, he defended this Queen, through all Her future Calamity; But dyed some years before She suffered, leaving Her then, not in despair of deliverance.

The Documents of France, Her breeding in Fran. met with such an incomparable genuity, and excellent understanding in this Princess (a Person compleat also for beauty) that She became the most admired; which moved the French King, And there married the Dolphin. to marry Her to Francis the Dolphin, Anno 1558. Being both the undoubted Heirs to the Crown of England, after the death of Mary then Queen of England (presently following) and Elizabeth her Sister.

And therefore these new maried couple, took upon them to quarter the Arms of England, And as heirs to England quarter the Arms. which in truth by Law they might not do: None may bear the Coat of a Family, not being both a certain Heir of the same. Nor was it in truth the right of others, who did the like, as Courtney Marquess of Exeter, and the Dutchess of Suffolk, Neece to Henry the Eighth, by His younger Sister; and yet were allowed, though of further Descent; and therein (tis true) the less jealousie,Which offended Qu. Elizabeth. but to Her that was so neer, the cheef cause of Queen Elizabeths perpetual hatred, and fear, that She might prove too hasty an Usurper of these Kingdomes, and it was the ground of all the miseries that accompanied Her to the untimely grave.

For Queen Elizabeth now come to this Crown (well knowing Her own power and interest with those of the Reformed Religion here at home, and in Scotland) opposed it. Which was construed then, that She might as well question Maries Intere [...] of Succession.

In this interim,The French King and Dolphin die the French King Henry, and Francis His Son, depart this life, and the Queen of Scots left unhappy in his los [...]. Being become a Queen Dowager in France, where Factions inincreased, [Page] too hot for Her to abide there.

Her Uncle Guise (Her Curator) managing the most part,The Queen returns to Scotland. in which he sacrificed himself. Queen Mary therefore, having a desire to return home, knew She had been too bold with Queen Elizabeth, to get much favour; yet she begged leave from Her of safe conduct into Scotland; which was refused, disputing former unkindnesses; whilest in a mist She got by the English Ships, that lay in Her way, and landed in Scotland, 1561. Where She found Her State might [...]ly distempered, under Protection of the Bastard Iames, and M [...]rraies Government.

To recover which, She used Her Subjects with all curtesie, and changed not those of the Reformed Religion, which was mightily increased by Her absence, and brought in by tumult of the wild Presbytery.

And first,Requests a Peace with England. She warily requested a certain form of Peace and amity with England; and to make it the more certain, She proposed by way of Counsel to Queen Elizabeth (if She should have no Issue) to be declared next Heir to Succession.

This advice, with the former bold bearing of the Title and Arms, caused more than suspition, That otherwise She meant by violence to take the Crown, having claimed it, through too hasty ambition.

And indeed it was a great means to dissever their friendships.Which o [...] [...]ends Queen Elizabeth. For alwaies unto established Governments, Successors are soon suspected; The People most usually, upon dislike of present things, look up after the rising Sun, and forsake the setting. Nor is it customary with Successors designed, to keep their own hopes, and other mens lewd desires, within the compass of justice and truth; and thereby also to cut off the likelyhood of future security, by hanging before their own eies their winding sheet, and to solemnize their own funeral Feast alive, and see the same.

Hereby it was evident Queen Mary prepared to stand upon Her Guard, well waying the watchfull eye of Queen Elizabeth upon all Her Actions.

The Queen of Scots was young and handsome,Q. Maries designs to marry. and in respect of Succession, thought upon nothing more than to settle Her self again by Allyance and Marriage; which Queen Elizabeth meant to propose, to divert Her Choice in France, mostly aimed at: and therefore by pretence of great policy to both, She offered Husbands to Her of the English blood,And Qu. E. propos [...] Husbands. which the other had most reason to refuse, and to strengthen her self by the amity of the French. Preferring that as most certain from whence her Birth proceeded, rather than to trust too much to the English, or to the policy of Queen Elizabeth, who was likely to govern the design as She pleased, to Her own advantage.

[Page] And therefore She accepted several overtures of Mariage with others. And first with Arch-Duke Charles, Son to Ferdinand the Emperor;Emperours Son but Queen Elizabeth soon threatned Her out of that match, and in plain terms commended Robert Dudley a new fallen Widower (of his own making, for this design and other great conveniencies) to mary Her.And in England Earl of Leicester. But that was retorted with much scorn by Her Kindred in France the Guises, as unequal and unworthy, they being then in Treaty for Her with the Emperors Son,And in France. and others of France, the Prince of Conde, and the Duke of Ferrara; and so was Queen Elizabeths design narrowly examined by them, and suggested, that this proposed mariage was but to colour Her own resolves to mary Dudley Her self; which gave the more suspition,Dudley preferred. he being suddenly made Masterof Her Horse, created Baron Denbigh, and the next day E. of Leicester; and for the more credit, his Brother was made Baron Lisle, and Earl of Warwick.

But Leicester by Proxie made Court to Queen Mary, Leicester a Suter to the Q. of Scots. and (in time) Commissioners were appointed, from either Kingdomes, to treat thereof at Barwick: Though indeed, he had some false hopes, from the common bruit, to mary Q. Eliz. and therefore privately authorized his confident Commissioner, the Earl of Bedford, to hinder the Treaty, and to further the Q. of Scots mariage with Henry Darly Son to the Earl of Lenox, Q. Mar [...] in love with Lord Darly. who were both of them called home by their Queen, after their twenty years banishment here in England; And no sooner She saw Darly, but presently designs Her self to him. From which Mariage proceeded Her disquiet, and future unhappiness.

This Darly was highly descended;Darly's descent, his Father, Matthew Stuart, Earl of Lenox, born of the Royal stock of the Stuarts, was allwaies acknowledged next Heir to the Queen of Scots in Her infancy. And this his Son, a person of incomparable mixtures of mind and body,And Character. might well excuse the Queens choice, and her disjointed Councils, concerning her Husband.

And when she found it came to light, she desired Q. Elizabeths consent; but Murray, most ambitious, and unwilling to leave his power and interest in the sway of Government, (together with Hamilton) sought, under hand, all indefatigable waies and means in England, to prevent it; though Queen Elizabeth had no need to be taught designs and devices, if possible, to divide this intended Match. Which, indeed, caused Queen Mary the sooner to hasten; and having knighted Darly, and created him Lord Armanoch, His Preferments, And mariage with the Queen. Earl Rosse, and Duke of Rothsay, at the five Moneths end, of hir beginning, She took him, her King and Husband, 1565.

And now Murray began his Rants, applying all his Wit and Cunning (of either he had sufficient) to his own private discontent [Page] and ambition; and under the goodly pretence of Religion, had raked together such a rabble of the mad-headed Ministery, countenanced also by the Duke Castle-herault, that the whole Kingdom feared the disquiet.

The Queen of England, might well (as she did) take compassion hereat;Scotland in disquiet. two young couples, her kindred, and Successors, having much to do to qualifie the twenty years custome of a turbulent people, not to have a King, till now; and willing indeed, to have none at all. For Hamilton, and Murray; presuming of favour from England, take arms, but were so hotly persued by the King, that they fled into England, and were there covertly protected, but might have been more openly, by the same rule that some English fugitives had been received in Scotland, as Taxley, Standen, and Welch, besides Oneal out of Ireland.

All this was disputed by Ambassie from England, of one Tanworth a Courtier, to whom the Queen of Scots did not vouchsafe her presence, her refusing to call her Husband King.

Thus stood the State of the Affairs in Scotland, whilst the Queen conceived with Child, and, as if blessed in the peace of this Issue (what she could never enjoy in her life) she afterwards brought forth,K. Iames born, 1566. her only Son, Iames the sixth (a Peace-maker to all Our World) in Iune 1566.

But because the Religion (as they call it) is much concerned in all the troubles of that Kingdom,Digression. The Scots Religion & State affairs intermixed. as a defensive faction, taken up at all times to mannage other Designs and Interests; Give me leave to tell you their Story (intermixing the affairs of State, and other concernments of their contemporaries.)

Wherein you shall find their pretended sanction from a Rule of Conscience, to be an Instrumental of State; from a pretence of Knowledge, to be a very practice of Ambition.

Nor will it (I hope) repent the Reader, the tedious Story: for though Truth appears in Ordine Doctrinae, yet never more fully, than when we search the Original Veins thereof, by the Increase, Depravations, and Decaies, in Ordine Temporum.

And so we proceed to the History of their Church and State, and the Contemporary Actions, intervening with England and France, and other Neighbour Nations.

The Life and Death of MARY Queen of SCOTLAND.Anno 1542.

[Page]

KIng Iames the fifth dying of discontent,Q. [...] comes to the [...]own. more than disease, the 13. of December 1542. in the 33. year of his age, and 32. of his reign, left his Crown to an only Daughter Mary, at six daies old; as she did afterwards, to her Son, born a King: (Fatal sufferings to a people, to be Subjects to young Soveraigns) And this Succession was put into a Will patcht up by the Cardinal David Beaton, and clapt into the Kings hand to sign. The Government of the Kingdom for the present was intrusted unto the Queen Mother, a wise and virtuous Princess of the House of Lorain; And though she might, as yet, be ignorant of the Actions of State, in this short time of her experience in Scotland, but 4. years; yet the Nobles, dissenting factions, agreed, the rather herein to accept of her; Each party presuming to work their ends the better, out of her Ignorance.

The people were religiously divided in Opinions,Romish and Reformed Religions. Romish and Reformed, which had put the late King upon extremity of Iustice against the Separatists, as they then were stil'd, indeed Dissenting among themselves, but afterwards, Congregating and Covenanting, gave them other Names. But in their several Professions, sundry persons suffered Imprisonment, Life, or loss of all.

The Scots derive their Christanity from the disciples of S. Iohn (their Patronage of St. Andrew) and the propagation thereof (not from Rome, Scots, how Christians. I dare say) no [...] indeed, they will have it from their own Plantations in Germany; where, increasing Christianity, the persecution of Domitian drove them home, again, into Scotland. And so they utterly refuse to have any thing to do with Rome, by means of Victor, that held that See, as others will have it.

But they confess,From Palladius. That Celestine Bishop of Rome, sent learned Palladius to convince the Heresie of Pelagius, (a welchman born, and bred up in the Monastery of Banghor) then overspreading that Nation. And after his good success therein, brought in (say they) Prelate Bishops, having had (by their favour) Priests and Moncks long before, and thereafter all kind of Romish Orders. Nay, Boniface the eighth, making use of the complaint of the Sco [...]ish Clergy against King Edward of England, cruelly afflicting them, and also of the resignation of the people to the See of Rome, The Pope thereby claims right to that Crown, writes to Edward, and malapertly Bids him not meddle with his Vassalls and Subjects.

[Page] But after too much lording of the Romish Cl [...]rgy, and the great Schism at Rome, Pope against Pope (three at one time) Some men began openly to discover them to the world. As Wickliff in England, Iohn Hus, and Ierome in Bohemia; the Scots will have of theirs too,Schism at Rome creats Excep [...]ions to P [...]pacy, By Wickliff, Iohn Hus, Ier. of Prag. and some Scots. Iames Resby and Paul Craw (who indeed were but their Pupils) that quarrell'd with their Arch-bishop of Saint Andrews, and so began their fray.

So that the Scots reckon themselves happy, without Bishops, till Palladius; from him to Malcolm; from him to Patrick Graham, their first Arch-Bishop; who came in with that title, to the dislike of all the Bishops. The inferiour Clergy could not brook the strict authority of him, and so by them, and the Cour [...]iers too boot,First Bishops in Scotland. Graham lost that Title.

And one Blacater traces his Steps, and procures himself Archbishop also; then followed Beaton, Arch-bishops, and Cardinals. and he brought in the Cardinals Cap, and all these in opposition each of other, which gave occasion to sundry men to publish these discontents, together with some Corruptions of the Church, not unlikely to make a rent. And therefore, the Pope sent unto Iames the fourth, a Sword, Popes presents. and Title, Protector of the Faith, and not long after (his gifts were cheap) unto Henry the eighth of England a Sword, and Title, Defender of the Faith.

I find the Scots had some Martyrs who begun their Reformation with private opinions.Scotis [...] Martyrs. Resby suffered anno 1422. Paul Craw 1431. In 1494. about 30. persons, men and women, called Lollards, from one Lollard a Schismatick indeed, (not as the Fryer discanteth, Quasi Lolium in area Domini.) And these put their Articles (34) in writing. The first Protestation that we read of amongst them, being in the year 1527. then suffered Patrick Hamilton, of the Antient Family, and so forwards many more.

The Northern Martyrs had repute of constancy in sufferings beyond others;Of Northern Martyrs. Which gives occasion to discuss the reason, for it was observed, That the people of this Isle exceed in zeal of profession, and are called in Italian, Pichia Pelli, or Knock-breasts, Hypocrites. So are they naturally better qualified with courage in extremities of sufferings, and therefore accounted most valiant; in respect of the Climate, the Heart furnished with plenty of Blood to sustain sodain defects, is not so soon apprehensive of Death, as where the Store-house of blood is less; every hazard there, raiseth fear, paleness and trembling; Angli bello intrepidi, nec mortis sensu deterrentur, witness the bold and cheerful sufferings of the condemned.

Answerable to our Bodies are our Laws, suitable to the Inhabitants of this Soil; Not being, since William the Conquerour, compelled (in Criminal Tryals) to confession by Torture, as in the Civil Law of other Nations, whose Innocency would rather [Page] yield to be guilty, than to endure lingring pain.

Insulani plerunque fure [...],

Death not prevailing to dete [...] men from common offences;Anno 1543. what constancy then, shall that Man have, who is martyred for matters of Religion, and health of his Soul? Britannis, quibus nihil interest humine sublimive putrescant, non valet. Purpuratis Gallis, Italis, aut Hispanis ista minitare. And therefore Pope Clement the eighth impaired his Cause, by burning Mr. Marsh at Rome, in Campo divi sancta [...]iore, whose constancy made him a Martyr, and many carryed away his ashes as Reliques, and that Pope resolved therefore, That none of the English Nation should from that time be confirmed with fire.

The Enemies of true Religion have not gained to themselves by that cruelty: Sanguis Martyrum semen Ecclesiae. The Romans were tender, in case of Religion, to condemn to death; Cato was not of opinion with those that would have sentenced the Bacchanals, he alleging, That Religion was apt to deceive men into a shew of Divinity, and therefore to be wary in punishing the Professors, lest the common people should suspect something was done thereby derogating from the Majesty of God.

Tantum Relligio potuit suadere Malorum.

And so the occasion of some Martyrs amongst the Scots increased numbers, their Ashes being the best Compost to manure the Church.

And now return home,Scots Prisoners promise a Mariage; out of England, those Persons of Honour, Prisoners to Henry 8. at the last fatal Battel, with whom he deals so cunningly, that by his Noble Usage, and some Bribes to boot, he returns them his Pensioners, especially, their utmost endeavour or a Match with Prince Edward and their Queen, young Couples, He five, She but one year, old. And with this conceit the King might conquer Scotland by mariage, to save him expence of money and men, by the Sword. But the French King Henry, the French interpose. not liking this lincking, began quarrels with the English, embarging their Ships and Merchants goods; the like with them in England; So that some Forces were from hence speedily sent over, which besieged Landersey, but the French King in person with a mighty Army, made the English to rise for to meet them: In the mean time the Town was relieved, and the King, having done his Work, returned in the dark.

The Scots Prisoners kept their word,1544. and prevailed so far at home, that their first Parliament concluded the Match, and confirmed it by an Instrument under Seals, and ratified by Oaths; and that their young Queen should be sent to her Husband; but these Scots soon byassed by the French practices, break faith and refuse.Incense the English to Arms. This Indignity set Henry on fire for revenge, who transports an Army into Scotland in 200. Vessels, under command of [Page] Viscount Lisle, Admiral for the Sea, and the Earl of Hartford for the Souldiers,And land with Fire & Sword, and Land at the Fryth, marching in three Battalia's towards Lieth: And were encountred with skirmishes by six thousand Horse, who soon retreated, leaving Lieth to be consumed with fire. And being (besides this Success) too powerful to be opposed, marched forwards towards Edinburgh, and were humbly besought by the Provost and Burgesses to spare their Cities ruin, and be pleased with the Souldiers free quarter, and Bag and Baggage at parting. No, this was not sufficient to appease the Enemies fury, who being therefore somewhat opposed, entered by force with fierce assault, took part of the Town, which they ransacked, and consumed with fire Holy-rood-House and the Palace.

The Ships returned with large Spoils,and return; and the Army marcht on, coasting the Countrey homewards, ransacked above thirty Towns in their way, with no more loss than fourty men.

Having thus punished them for perjury, King Henry design'd as much,and the like in France. or more, to the French, with two Armies, the one under Command of the Duke of Norfolk, who besieged the strong Town Maittrel, but were beaten up with loss and little honour. The other had better success, by the Duke of Suffolk, for embodying both of them, encamped about Bulloign, with power enough to be masters. And therefore, for the glory of the gallant King,Take Bulloign. Himself comes over, and after a Months Battery, takes, first, the Upper, and then the Base Town, by Articles, to depart with Bag and Baggage; the whole number of Souls 4444. and King Henry Mans the Town, and so comes home again.

And it was time so to do;The Scots enter Engl. for the Scots always aiming at such opportunities, fell into the Marches of England, rifling and burning all the Towns they came to, from whence the English were fled, till they met with the Earl of Hartford, who was sent with twelve thousand men, and doing as the other had done before, ruin'd all, without opposition of any. And thus, but by turns, King Henry intending to be more cruel with Revenge, to that end makes peace with France, but dies two years after.

Which Gave the Scots, Scots imbroiled in troubles a home. some time of breathing from abroad, never free from quarrels at home; the State increasing in Faction, the old Council keep up their Inquisition after Heretiques, as they termed the Reformers; and for Example fell upon one Wischard, whose outward zeal and affection to their Cause, gave him courage to confirm it by Fire and Fagot; And for whose death,Cardinal Beato [...] murthered. the Cardinal David Beaton (lately come to enjoy his Kinsmans CAP) was barbarously murthered in his Castle of Saint Andrews, by Norman Lisle, Iames Melvin, and others, and [Page] were justified in that barbarous act, by Iohn Rough, preaching it for sound doctrine,Anno 1546. who had got into their gang one Iohn Knox, the most notorious Ringleader, afterwards, of all disorder in their Reformation; which now began to quarrel with the Crown also,Io. Knox the Reformers Ringleader. and all Regal Government: For presently surprizing the Castle, He was, by the Crowd, vocated (as they call it) to be a Preaching Minister, whose Pride enduring no Rival, First Minister. soon turned out Rough that brought him in. But Knox finding no firm footing in Scotland, fled into England two years after.

And now began the tumult within,Tumult. and without the Castle; the Town taking parts, Monsieur d' Osel sent into France for a great Army, and as soon as sent for, was wafted over in 24. Gallies, 1547. anno 1547. beginning Siege and Battery to the Castle, which was quickly rendered, and the Prisoners and Spoil thereof returned back with the Army into France; The English were comming to oppose the French, H [...]n. 8. dies. but Henry 8. of England dying, gave occasion to the French to return Victors.

The antient League of Scots and French was decreed in the time of Achaius the first Monarch of Scotland (Offensive and Defensive) with Charls le Grand of France;Antient League with France. viz. Let this League indure for ever; Let the Enemies of the One be so to the Other; If the Saxon or English invade France, the Scots shall send aid, as the Numbers shall be desired, and at the French Charge; If the English invade the Scots, the French are to send competent assistance, and at the French Charge.

So that we may now say, Never was League more faithfully observed, or longer continued, even till the Union of King Iames the sixth with England; which begat that saying, He that will Either win, with the Other must begin.

But forthwith to ballance these Broils, English Army to ballance differences, comes an Army from England, of ten thousand Foot, and five hundred Horse, by Land and Shipping; which King Edward of England, lately come to the Crown, and at ten years of age, sent under the Conduct of his Uncle the Duke of Somerset his Protector. Not without some resolve,Sent by K. Edward. in these civil dissentions, to vie Mastery for the pursute or pretence of Mariage. And the third of September entring into the cold quarter, brought them to the Scots Borders, but with so much Civility, as to send Summons to the Duke of Castle-herault, who bore the best sway, as the honestest Man amongst them.

He puts the Scots in mind, The Letter of Summons pres [...]nted to the Scotish Army. That the blood of Neighbors, Kindred, and Christians, are too pretious to be vainly spilt; That he comes to prevent it, and if he be put to it, to use his force: It refers onely to a firm Peace, not for the present, but perpetual, if the Union of sacred bands of Marriage may confirm it, which we desire [Page] now, as ye have promised heretofore, the advantages so equal, that the even gain pleads alike for both.Anno 1547. Princes of fitting years, of Compositions, Mind and Body alike; in Powers matchless by any; One Island, Speech and Manners. To ballance these with hopes, or likelyhood from Forein, it were more safe to examine by Examples of Others, than to make tryal by themselves. For his part, presuming to meet with many of his Mind amongst them, he would endeavour to moderate such Articles formerly prescribed, as might render the young Queen more content, viz. To remain (for some years of her Infancy) at home; to be bred up with her own people, and with her own choice and Council of her Peers to consent to a Husband. In the mean time not to be tempted with a Forein Match of the French, or any other, nor to be bred beyond Seas. And with this Conclusion, he will depart home, with recompence for any hurt done already.

The Scots were a mighty Army for Men, Which they neglect. and ne [...]r hand for all Ammunition. They say themselves above thirty thousand after their Mutiny, wherein thy lost eight hundred; and thus priding up, upon this offer of the English, neglected to read these Letters in Council, Lest, indeed, the equitable conditions should raise a Mutiny in the Multitude, who were most for this Match, until the French faction pretended that the English came to force their Queen away.

Upon this,The Armies meet. the Scots advance along the Shore, and from an English Galley one Cannon shot took away at one blow five and twenty Scots, which routed the Next Archers; And Somerset set forward his Horse Troops that his Foot might gain the Hill, who were soon forced back; but as to recover their Courage, their Harquebuse horse fall on, with help of their Artillery, and showres of Arrows, that the Scots gave ground to be out of the reach of the Cannon, whilst the English cry out, they fly, they fly, which fear, and not force, increased to a total flight; and their rancks quite disordered,The Scots are discom [...]ited, & slain 14000. l. gave the Battail to the English, with loss of Fourteen thousand Scots, the Lords Lohemore, and Fleming, with almost all their Chiefs fell by the Sword. Taken Prisoners fifteen hundred, and amongst them Earl Huntley, Lord Chancelour, with the Lords Hester, Hobs, and Hamilton, and many others at Musleburgh, Septem. 10. 1547.

The English Master five miles about, fortifie Keth and Amor, two adjacent Islands,1548. take the Castles of Fas and Humes, raised some Fortifications at Londere and Resburgh, and so return.

The Scots thus worsted,10000. French come to their aid. send to implore aid from France, who send over ten thousand, amongst whom, say the German Authors, came over three thousand Almans, High-Dutch, under Command of the Count Reingrave; but in general under Government [Page] of Monsieur de Osse, a man of some successful Renown; and after landing, join with eight thousand Scots neer Hadington, and beleaguer it, being lately fortified by the English; where, assembling Council in May, they advise to send over the young Queen into France, the immediate cause of those troubles; And to fortifie themselves, against furture assaults, or pretences of the English, they consult it best, to betroth her to the Dolphine of France: And for the present, the English being overburdened with the Expence and continual war, never to have hopes of an end, make fair offers of a Truce for ten years, in likelyhood, therefore, that one of the Princes might dy, which would expiate for the former promises and conditions of Contract. But this advise, over-ruled by the French Faction, and Romish Clergy, with the offer of four thousand French Crowns yearly Revenue to the Duke Castle-herault, it was resolved to fight it out,The Queen at six years of age sent into France. and send away the Queen, who was transported over, round about Scotland by the West Sea, and arrives upon Bretaign in France, and so to Paris; escaping the English Fleet that watched for her about Calice; She being now but six years of age, accompanyed with Iames her base Brother, Io. Arskin, and Will. Leviston.

The Siege of Hadington continues,Hadington siege. and as bravely defended, when comes to their succour thirteen hundred Horse, armed Capa-pe, to assist to the Besieged, under command of Sir Robert Bowes, and Sir Thomas Palmer, but in the way, were all cut of by Ambuscade. But the Earl of Shrews [...]ury following with an Army of sixteen thousand, amongst whom were four thousand Germans (equal friends for like pay) raised the siege, most French, who retreated very honourably, and left the Town for the Earl to enter, who relieves it, and returns to Berwick.

Monsieur de Osse marches to Humes and Fas Castle, French Command. Places taken by the English the year before, surprizes the Centinels, and takes the Castles. But Humes was taken by this Device. Order had been given, by the Governour, for the County to come in with provision, by such a day, whereof de Osse makes use; loads his own Souldiers like Countreymen, who were let in by a Portal, cast down their provision, and secretly armed, fall upon the Guard, let in more company, and so surprize the Castle.

In August after,English Forces recruit. comes the Earl of Rutland with three thousand Germans, and other Forces of the Marches, knowing the great difficulty for Hadington to hold out, the County so extremly forraged of all Provisions for contribution, without a standing Army to protect them; Dismantling the Places of Strength, draws out all the Men and Ammunition, fires the Town, and returns to Berwick, not meeting any one to oppose him: And [Page] this was the last expedition from King Edward; Anno 1548. though the French remained with most of their bands, and some Galleys; and so was poor Scotland massacred by two stranger Armies, as a prey to both Nations. But now began to have a breathing, being free from Strangers till the 2 year of Q. Elizab [...]th.

During this time of trouble,Io. Knox his travellings and course of Life; Iohn Knox, having been imprisoned by the State for tumults and disorder in behalf of Reformation, escapes, and was now got into England, preaching at Berwick, then to New-Castle, then to London, and so to the South of England, untill Queen Maries daies of Martyrs: But afterwards, too hot for him to hold out, he passes over to Geneva, from thence unto Franckford; which very unwillingly he did, being counselled thereto, much against his mind, by Iohn Calvin, a Frenchman of Aquitain, and bred a Civilian, who indeed could not brook such another Spirit as was his own, to meddle in that Government.

At Franckford he was accused of Treason against the Emperor,at Franckford accused of Treason, and Queen Mary of England, whom in his Treatise of Admonition to England, he called, the One, little inferior to Nero, the Other, and flies back to France, and so to Scotl. 1555. more cruel than Jezabel, for which he was forced to fly back to Geneva, but could settle no where, and so returned to Deep in France, and thereafter into Scotland, in anno 1555. and again, after some weeks, from thence he fled back to Geneva; Nor there could he have footing,and back again to Geneva, and then again to France. 1557. but returns to Deep, in anno 1557. From thence he conveys sundry Letters to his factious Lords, Lairds, and La [...]cks, tells them of true honor, to stick by the Kirk and his Counsel; for that cause are they called Princes of the People, not by descent of Birth and Progeny, but by their duty, to vindicate the oppressed Kirk.

Hereupon, his Letters, and other missives, so prevailed, that the faction came into a Common Band, and by Letters to his Faction in Scotland, they come into Covenant, 1558. Presbytery first set up at Dundee. 1558. and then Knox comes home, when Q. Mary of England dies, and Q. Elizabeth succeeds.

And thus lincked, began their Geneva Congregation, into the face of Kirk; Elders appointed, and called the Privy Kirk; and at Dundee, it was first erected, by the scatte [...]ed notions of Knox pickt up at Geneva; which profession there, hath since spread into many the Reformed Churches of Christendome.

I shall take the boldness, to digress into that Story; In Anno 1124.Digression. Of Geneva, and their first Presbytery Church. The Bishop of Geneva was the Prince of it, and the Territory thereof, and contending with Aymo a lay Earl, de Imperio Civitatis, the Emperour Frederick the first, gave leave to the Bishop, Ut ille solus Genevae principatum obtineret Regali jure. Yet some contentions followed,Francis [...]us Bonivard. betwix [...] the Bishops, the Earls, and the Dukes of Savoy; and therefore the Citizens, for Defence of themselves,Simler [...] de Rep. Helv. entered League with the Helvetians, Berne, [Page] and Frebergh (the Neighbour free Cities) and so were powerful to shew their Teeth,Anno 1558. against both factions, and occasion was soon offered to bite.

For by the preaching of Farellus (sometime Scholar unto Stupulensis and Viretus) they began to dislike their Bishops Person, Farellus thei [...] Founder. and his Popery; Beginning to reform, as other the said Neighbour Cities had done.Bod. de Rep. p. 353. Novandae Religionis studium, ac Reipub. commutandae oblatam occasionem arripuerunt. And yet they would have been content with Him and his Episcopacy, but not with His Popery.

The Bishop in possession, and having (as Calvin after confesses) Ius gladii, Calv. to Sa▪dol. p. 172. & alias civilis Iurisdictionis partes, Farellus then exclaims against that Civil Authority in Bishops, as unlawful.

From which Doctrine, it was no marvel if the Citizens took upon them, that the Soveraignty of the City was in Themselves, and so the Bishop, and his crew, gat away.

Quo ejecto,Bod. de Rep. p. 353. Genevates, Monarchiam, in popularem statum comutarunt.

And by such advise as pleased them, they ordain a new Form of popular Government, jura Magistratus.

The Bishop joined with the Duke of Savoy, quarrels his right, assault the City, anno 1536. and were beaten back, and the City, Calv. comes to Geneva, and fabricks a Discipline. ever since, rule themselves: For Calvin was now come to them, a Frenchman, and may be called their Founder, the wisest man that ever the French Church could boast off; A Civilian bred, and got his Divinity, not by learning it, but by teaching others. And this was their first Principle in Divinity, to cast off their Rulers at Pleasure. The Gospel, to wrest the Sword.

Thus altered the Soveraignty, and thereafter the Government of the Church; Some of their own say, it was mirabiliter. Indeed, much like the other; as The One was thrust out, so the Other was abolished; Bez. in vita Calvin. Calv. de nec. ref. eco[?]. p. 64. Dealing therein, as men do with rotten houses; overthrow all the whole frame of Ecclesiastical building at once, into a rude heap; out of which, they may the better make choise, and take of that old stuff, as they please to build a new, and yet in that way they are as inconstant. But hereupon they advise of a Church Government, They advise of a Church Discipline. respective to some Neighbour Cities; and in this hurly burley, they confesse, they could fall upon no better, and yet they soon change this Model.

A principal Stickler therein, was this Iohn Calvin, He began Ecclesiam componere anno 1536. It being before (as himself saies) tanquam dissoluta Scopa, Bez. in vita Calvin. and makes them swear to his Discipline, paucis capitibus comprehensum,, which lasted not nine Moneths wonder,Capit. to Farel. Ep. Cal. 6. and he, and his Comrades, bold Farellus and eloquent Viretus banished, and why? Tyranni esse voluerunt; [Page]In liberam Civitate [...], voluerunt novum pontificatum revocare.

In their absence, the City disagrees (Farell [...]s and Viretus being better provided) Calvin lying at the Lurch, sometimes at Tigurum, Cap. to Fareli Epist. Calv. 6. Basil, Strasburgh, returns again 1541. and with much cunning devises, as there was a Civil Sena [...]e, so he would have an Ecclesiastical Assembly of twelve simple Citizens, and (observe his modesty) but six Ministers; The odds made it more colourable for Calvin, in Number, but not in Value (Union in a prepared Conspiracy, prevailing more than Number) for himself cunningly commands all, to the great regret of the Comminalty, whom at his pleasure, and with his power, in the Consistory, he suspended from the Communion, which is indeed the very Scepter of their pretended Sion.

The City displeased with their Con [...]istory, Beza de vita Calv. advise with their Neighbour Cities on that point, and therein Calvin in outward shew the most busie, and therefore is admitted to pen their missive Letters, but underhand directs his own Letters to their Minister Bullenger, Cal. [...] Bullenger. and others; presuming that their Ministers would confer with them; and therefore thus he prepares them, with lamentable Complaints against the (Geneve) Senates blindness, unhospitable to Strangers, abusive to Farell [...]s, Defenders of Hereticks, and Devils incarnate. Implores consideration upon himself, and his Associat [...], being impugned by the wicked, for bringing them, from under the yoke of sin, to see the Sun of Righteousness. Ascribes much to their Ministers, the ver [...] [...]upport of Gods Church, N [...]nc (saith he) extremus actus agitur[?], nisi istinct afferatur remedium. And unless the Devil be now unsaddled by them, habenas ei laxatum iri, he would get the Bit in his Teeth, and run riot at pleasure. And for his own part he meant not to stay by it, but run away too; Nec morositate nostra [...]iet, ut loco potius cedamus quam sententia.

And for what can a Man imagine all these good words? why, truly he tells Mr. Bullinger, Brevis summa est, that your Noble Senate would say, that his Discipline is Consentanea verbo Dei. By no means, they would not; but they were content to say, it did accedere ad praescriptum verbi Dei; and withall returned back with their Letters a Form of their Government, but not to prescribe any of it to them, for that their own at Geneva might be more convenient.

Hereupon 1537. Calvin foreknowing the effect of their Letters, hastens the City to resolve, who, with much ado, assemble, and put their own discipline to the Vote, which came to this upshot (as Calvin saies himself) In illa promisc [...]a calluvie Suffragiis fuimus superiores; Cal. [...] Bullenger Ep. 207. for when stomach strives with wit, the match is unequal.

[Page] And let these his own Words be recorded (in perpetuam rei memoriam) by how many reverend Fathers, and famous Persons, with what Wisdome and Deliberation this Form of pretended holy Discipline was revived and entertained, if a disordered multitude by most voices, laid this plat-form, for all posterity to imitate.

Major voice, Bod. de Rep. [...]. 2. Calv. 6. helpt him well, upon which advantage he would practice: And therefore crouds in fifty French, his Countreymen, at a clap, free Denizons; who had Ius Iubendae legis, and his Inter est was (no doubt more) to force in Ministers.

For when the Magistrates would have but preferred a Genevian born to be one, Calvin storms at him; Trollietus (saies he) quidnam? quod natione sit Genevensis (no other cause) nisi quod Simiae amant suos Catulos.Cal. [...] Vire [...] Epist. 586. And indeed the Emperour Charls V. intending wars upon France, gave good leasure and leave to the Reformers to increase, the Pope to be displeased, which occasioned Calvin to compile his Book De necesitate reformandae Ecclesiae.

And so have we, from whence It came, whither It would, who devised It, when, and how, and where, planted in Geneva Anno 1554. and Calvin continued there to his death, 1561. aged 52. years.

And yet to spread it abroad (for all Calvins wit) he was glad, it seems to get it into favour with the assistance of Reverend Beza, The promu [...] gation thereof. being alike bred up with the profession of several Reformers, who (together) gave value to the progress of this beginning; and truly of a good Man, grew much in admiration of Calvins wit, which induced him thereto, and became at length very bold (in his Prescriptions to some in England) to intermeddle here, and in Scotland, for the like Reformation; witness his Epistles to Lawson and Knox; Beza to G [...]irdal Ep. 8. His discourse of three kind of Bishops, of God, of Man, and of the Devil, to the exceeding censure of him.

In France it had no repute, being termed Thalmud Sabaudiacum.

To England it came, upon occasion of some Male-contents, in reference to Geneva; for in Queen Maries Martyring time, those being fled to Franckford, they were afresh assaulted with the Orders of Geneve; and Knox and Whittington collect the particulars of Edward the sixth's Common-Prayer Book, and send it to Calvin, who very censoriously is pleased to say Multas video fuisse tolerabiles ineptias.

However, Franckford inclined to the English, and chuse Dr. Horn their Superintendent: at which Calvin storms; and by great entertainments of other English, as Whittington, Gilby, Goodman, and others, invited their Persons to Geneve, and so [Page] stole their hearts to his humonr also.Anno 1559. And they thereafter spread it in England the second year of Queen Elizabeth. About which time, Knox came also and carried it into Scotland. And this is the true story of the Geneve discipline briefly and impartially put together.

This year a Treaty was held at Cambray, Treaty at Cambray. by Delegates of England, France, and Spain, for settling the various differences of State; but especially between England and France, for restoring Calice, which had been lost to them by Queen Mary, but by no means would be rendered back. Yet at last a Truce was concluded upon these Articles.

Neither Prince shall invade each Other,Articles of Calice. nor assist Eithers Enemies. The Ships of either Nation shall give Caution at their se [...] ting out to Sea, not to molest each Other. Free Commerce and Trading to be increased. The French Fortification at Armoth in Scotland, to be demolished. Eight years the French shall enjoy Calice, with the Appurtenances, and sixteen Pieces of Ordinance, and presently after shall restore it to Queen Elizabeth. Eight sufficient Merchants (not French Subjects) shall be bound in 500000 Crowns for performance hereof, and the Right of the Town to remain in the Queen. And if any Attempt or Innovation, be by any English, during that time, against the French, or the Queen of Scots, then the other shall be free. And on the contrary, If any prejudice shall be attempted or done by the French King, the Queen of Scots, or the Dolphine, against England, then Calice shall be instantly from thenceforth rendred to Q. Elizabeth.

A Peace at the same time and place was concluded between the Queen of England, and Francis and Mary King and Queen of Scotland, and certain A [...]RTICLES of Agreements were referred to Commissioners to regulate abuses of each Borderers.

And accordingly this Peace was proclamed in England and Frauce, The French King aims at England. but soon broken; for the French King aiming at England, for his Son and the Queen of Scots, would not withdraw his French Garrisons out of Scotland, as was agreed, but privily sent over fresh Supplies, and openly challenges Interest in England for his Son and Daughter-in-law; and in all writings used this Title,Quarter the Arms of England. Francis and Mary King and Queen of Scotland, England, and Ireland; Bearing and quartering the Arms of England, and upon their Heralds Coats.

Of which Throgmorton the English Ambassadour Lieger, complained without redress. Levied forces openly and sent them to Scotland to border all places of England; And being an utter Enemie to the Protestaints, was under hand abetted by the Pope, the Emperour, and Spain, holding Her an Heretique and Illegitimate. But those his Designs were soon cut off by an [Page] untimely accident upon him; for tilting at the Nuptials of his Daughter with Spain, and his Sister with Savoy, and being run in at the eye with a Lance, the Bur sticking in his brains, he died immediately.

Some hopes Queen Elizabeth had now of lessening her fears,K. of France killed at a Tilting. and therefore to strike in with his Son and Successor, She kept his Fathers Obsequies with magnificent solemnity in Pauls Church; And sent Howard the Lord Effinghams Son, to Condole the Kings Death, and to Congratulate the new Successor, with desire to continue Friendship and League, as with his Father. But the Guisians Party that now were like to govern all, counselled the young K. to increase the quarrel, and not to leave off the Arms of England.

Throgmorton was told, That they might as well bear those of England, as Queen Elizabeth did theirs of France. It was so questioned at Cambray, but Doctor Wootton, answered, That twelve Kings of England on a Row had born them, with so much authority, that no Treaty ever disputed.

But at last France finding the Queens jealousie to kindle into flame,Q. Elizabeth of [...]ended. they forbore, with this bravado, That indeed it was undone upon better consideration; no addition of Terms or Titles could give Honour, but rather Diminution, to the Most Christian King of Fr [...]nce; and that former Kings challenging and prosecuting their undoubted rights to Naples and Millan in Italy, yet used them not additional to France.

We return again to our Scots. Knox came to his Party, being arrived out of France, May 1559. hastens to Saint Iohnstons, Knox arrives in Scotland. preaching them into practice. And first they chuse an Orator, the Laird of Caldor, with Petitions and Supplications to the Queen Regent of their Demands; for having before got leave to read the Bible, now they desire to convene in Prayer, to interprete the Scripture, to baptize their own, to receive in both kinds, and (ever at the end of all) to have the Priests Reformed.

To all these, She gave a reasonable answer, but not so satisfactory as they required.

They protest in Parliament to stand to their Tenents, and If Distraction or Destruction follow, the blood they bring home to the score of bad Government. For which, they were summoned to appear at Serlin; and they, to strengthen themselves against any force, congregate all their parties from Dundee, Montross, Saint Iohnston, Marches in tumult to Sterling, called the Congregation, and Rebel. Angus, and Mernes; and so came forward towards the Queen at Sterlin; whom she caused in prudence (with fair promises) to be staied; and now they call themselves the Congregation, and keeping still in a body, the necessity of State inforced her to put them to the Horn; Inhibiting all upon pain [Page]of Rebellion not to side with them. Whereupon they fall to action, Robbing and Plundering the Gray and Black-Fryers, a building of wonderous cost and greatness, which in three daies they wholy destroyed. Ro [...] and demolish the Fry [...]ries.

But the French Forces, and other power of the Kingdom, soon made them to yield the Town upon Treaty, which was secured by the French, until several Congregations had inveigled some of the Discontented Nobles, and siding with them, send a Trumpet to redemand the Town; which being denied, by force take it;Destroy Scone take Sterlin and Edenburgh. And with Knox (their chief) destroyed Scone, took Sterlin, and so marched to Edenburgh: from whence the Queen was fled ro Dunbar, and there in the Name of Francis and Mary King and Queen of Scotland,and are proclai [...]ed Tray [...]ors. Dolphin and Dolphiness of Viennois (now in France) and lately maried, commands them to separate and depart home; upon pain of Treason.

This begat a consent to treat at Preston, to little purpose there, but was somewhat pieced afterwards at Edenburgh; Then they make a New Covenant at Sterlin, Covenant anew, and call in aid, resolve to call assistance of the Neighbour Princes, and send into England to Q. Elizabeth, newly come to the Crown.of England;

The Queen Regent (a most modest and virtuous Matron) was as busie;and the other bring in the French. and accordingly came over 1000. French in August, the rest in September; and so each party prepare for Warr.

The Congregators had got to their side these Noblemen, the Duke of Castle-herault,Lords of the Congregation Traytors, the Earls of Arran, Arguile, Glencarn, and Montieth; the Lords Ruthen, Uchiltry, Boyd, and divers other Lords and Lairds; The Queen proclaims them Traytors; They reply with a Declaration against it. who publish Decl [...]rations, She thereupon by Lion her Herald, denounceth Treason against them all.

Upon which they convene,to depose the Qu. Regent [...] draw up Articles against her Government, and to depose her from Regency; and for Her and the French to depart Edenburgh in 24. hours, and the next day storm it, but with loss, and fled.

The Earl of Bothwell, having much interest in the State, sends for more forces to the Duke of Guise in France, French Forces Shipwrack [...]. who governed all there, and sent them some, which suffered Shipwrack upon the Coast of Holland.

Robert Mel [...]in, in behalf of the Congregators, returns from Q. Elizabeth, with Articles to be answered; which afterwards came to a Contract.

And having got England, The Kirk [...] led Pro [...]estan [...]: in a different Policy, to friend their Cause, they wisely decline their Title of Congregators, and call▪ themselves Protestants, as in England, from whom now they have great Support (rather to ballance with the French, Support from England. than bowlster their proceedings) but it was long first, being often [Page] [...]olicited by hu [...]ble Letters from the Protestant Lords, and particularly, to apologize for a pestilent Pamphlet written by Knox against the Government of Women, which he also excused in several long-winded Letters to Queen Eliz. her self,Knox his pestilent Pa [...] phlet. and to Sir W. Caecil Secretary of State.

To whom Caecil replies in brief.

Mr. Knox, Mr. Knox,

Caecils Letter to Knox.

Non est Masculus neque faemina; Omnes enim (ut ait Paulus) unum sumus in Christo Iesu; Benedictus vir qui confidit in domino, et erit Dominus fiducia ejus. I need to wish you no more prudence, than Gods grace; whereof God send you plenty.

Oxford July 28. 1559.

W. CAECIL.

But their Messenger was Secretary William Maitland of Lidington, and others, who in a doleful tone complains, that since Queen Maries mariage in France, the Scots Government was quite altered, with favour to the French, who flock thither for preferment, and trust of Offices of Honour, and Places of Strength, their Coin corrupted, and so in time to Master all, and make them French.

Caecil, Caecils considera [...]ion. Lord Burghley, a wise and subtle States-man, deals with Sir Henry Peircey (afterward Earl of Northumberland) so far their Neighbour, to pick out of the Congregators, what they aimed at; for they were then budding into a profession, which the wisest of the World knew not what to make of: And, that if they succeed by this assistance, upon what conditions they would piece with England, and so to find their temper, being supposed State Revolters.

They,Scots dissemble. with eyes heaved up to Heaven, answer, For no other Aim or Intention, but the glory of Iesus Christ; and the sincere word of God, truly preached, against all Abominations, and Superstitions; to restrain the Fury of Persecution; and conserve their Liberty; The mutual Love of both Kingdomes, was the Sum of all their desires, to which end they vow their Lives and Faith.

It was but slowly considered; upon these grounds, That the Scots were poor, bare of Money and Munition, unfaithful to themselves, and not to be trusted abroad, but warily to go to work with them, They were advised to stand upon their Guard, and not enter rashly into Arms.

But when the English found the French so forward, as to be on foot with Warlike forces, under command of Marquess [...] Albeuf, Uncle to the Queen of Scots, levied by the Reingrave in Germany, with Ammunition and Ordinance, ready to be [...]hipped, It appeared to be rather for Conquest than Countenance, [Page] and so was it time for the English to strike in for a share, if not to prevent such Neighbour-hood, upon that Rule, Let the French be thy Friend, but not thy Neighbour, and indeed were afraid of an invasion, as was threatned, upon several Pretences.

And first the English Counsellors wisely considered, not to provoke, nor to give bad Examples for Princes, to lend Protection to rebellious Subjects (For so all Potentates esteemed the Scots against their Sovereign.) And on the other side, it might be accounted little Piety, to forsake a Protestant Party, for so the Religion would have them. But concluded it reasonable to be in Arms, and to expect occasions; It being alwaies the English fore-sight to prevent invasion at home.Gain assistance from Englan. On the sudden it was hastened to send forces to Scotland, upon pretence however to assist Religion, and so drive out the French from thence ere they should take firm footing there.

This Result might be grounded on former Examples; by the English neglect, lost Ambleteul, and the Fortifications neer Bologn, taken suddenly; which necessitated the loss of Bologn it self, presently after. And the same carelessness rendered Calice to the French. Upon which score, lest Berwick and the Borders should be surprized, forces are sent by Land thither, and by Sea into Edenburgh Fryth, with a Fleet that suddenly set upon the French Ships riding neer the Shore, and their Garrisons in the Isle of Inchketh.

The Duke of Norfolk comes to Berwick with forces assisted with Commissioners (Sir William Caecil Secretary, and Doctor Wootton a Civilian.) And who must come to kiss their hands, but the Prior of St. Andrews, Iames, the Bastard Son of Iames the fifth, the Lord Ruthen and others, Commissioned from Hamilton Duke of Castle-herault, and the Confederates, and there enter league with England. Contract amity with the Religion.

In May 1560. For preservation of the Kingdom of Scotland against the French, during their Mariage with the French King, and a year after: and for expelling the French, provided that they preserve obedience to the Queen of Scotland.

The Governours of that State, Who had imped their Wings with Eagles Feathers▪ liked no game now, but what was raked out of the ashes of Monarchy, making head against Soveraignty. And to make it the better, called in to their aid the English Forces, inviting their antient Enemy the English, against the French; and by that means, turned her own Sword, into her own bowells, to the funeral of her own Liberty; and so it was no wonder, Scotland at that tiuse, to pass under Foreign Servitude. Evermore crying Liberty, which they most avoided as they came neerer to the End, and Event.

[Page] And hereupon an English Army of 10000.Anno 1560. was sent, under Command of the Lord Gray, and were received by the Duke, Arguile, Ruthen, and Others; the Queen Regent, with her faction, took security in the Castle of Edenburgh; The French inclosed within the Town, English Army 10000. under Lord Gray. issued out upon the Besiegers, and put them to flight.

But rallying again, forced the French into the Town, and stormed it with great loss.

And now the Ministers make the fourth and last Covenant, To expulse the French out of the Kingdome, Presbyters 4. Covenant. Q Regent dys. Peace on all Parts. when in Iune 1560. the Queen Regent dies, and forthwith came Commissioners, Randan with a Bishop, Deputies from the King and Queen in France; Treaty at Edenburgh. Sir William Caecil, and Doctor Whitton from England, treat and conclude a Peace at Edenburgh in Iuly, That the English and French should depart the Kingdom, 24. to Govern. and 24. elect shall govern, whereof the King and Queen in France shall nominate seven, and the States five, as one Council; and six of those to be of the Quorum. And Deputies of the Congregation to be sent into France by Petition to the King and Queen for granting privileges concerning the Reformed Ministers, and their Religion.

Which Treaty Queen Elizabeth endeavored evermore hereafter to press Queen Mary to ratifie, which she alwaies refused, or excused.

And thus being rid of two devowring Armies, some hopes remained to recover that poor Nation into reasonable quiet.

But the Strangets gone,Ministers make work. the Ministers pulpit their Design, prescribing certain Diocesses to several Men. We shall use their Names hereafter.

Knox to Edenburgh,

Goodman to Saint Andrews,

Heriot to Aberdeen.

Row to Saint Iohnstons,

Meossen to Iedbrough,

Christoson to Dundee,

Forgeson to Dumfermling.

Lindsey to Lieth.

Afterwards they had their Super-Intendents.Super-Intendents.

Spotswood for Lothian,

Woram for Fife,

Willock for Glasco,

Canswell for Arguile and the Isles,

Dun for Angus and Mearors.

And then the next Parliament,Crave Liberty of Conscience they supplicate for Liberty of Conscience, with Invectives against Papistry, but not Episcopacy [Page] as yet. And presented 25. Articles of the Confession of their Faith ratified by the three Estates, called Lords of the Articles, viz. eight Lords, eight Church-men, eight Commons; 25. Articles of faith. these are first to consider Articles and Heads, and then to present them to the Parlament to pass, and are called in the Latine, Authores Apolecti.

And two Acts were published against the Mass, the Popes Supremacy and Jurisdiction, which were sent to the King and Queen in France for ratification, but by them refused; however Knox, Winram, Spotswood, Willock, Dowglas, and Row, devised a Policy of Church-Government,Frame a Discipline. which they called Discipline; And fearing the future, they send Commissioners into England, to supplicate Queen Elizabeths assistance and support, against fresh Forces out of France; when in December 1560. Francis King of France and Scotland dies,King Francis dies. and therefore to his Queen Widow, was sent the Lord Iames, afterwards E. of Murray, as her Counsel.

In this Interim,Orders in the Ministery. the Ministers bethink of some Orderly Form in the Kirk; The Manner of electing Super-Intendents was, to summon the Churches about Edenburgh, by publick Edict; Iohn Knox presented Iohn Spotswood, Super-Intendent of Lothian, whom the multitude accepted, and promise obedience, as to their Pastor.

He by questions, professes and answers, That he accepts of this office without any respect of worldly Commodity, Riches or Glory; but since these daies of pluralties, they leave out this Article without answering, concluding to be subject and obedient to the late Discipline of their Kirk.

And thus he becomes a Minister of the Multitudes making, which, with the blessing of some one of them, he is dismissed.

At this time comes over an Ambassadour from France to restore Bishops and Church-men;Ambassadour from France to break the League with England. He was answered Negative, and so departed. And presently after they fall to pulling down Abbies and Monuments of the Church.

And now begins Jealousies,Jealousi [...] ▪ between England and Scotland. between the two Queens of England and Scotland; For the Scots had sent into England for the Queens ratification of the Treaty at Edenburgh, which she signed; but the Queen of Scotland in France refused it, with excuse, until she comes home, and consult with her Council; which the other took ill: Although she had endeavoured with reasonable Arguments to satisfie her Ambassadour Throgmorton therein.

But the Widow Queen arrived in Scotland out of France in August 1561.Queen Mary comes home. in most tempestuous weather; Triste et lugubre Caelum: And no sooner come, but hath Mass in her Chapel; [Page] and breeding disquiet,Anno 1561. she proclaims it death to oppose it; against which the Earl of Arran protests by Proclamation, and Knox by preaching; with whom, the Queen vouchsafes conference, concerning the Mass, which she wisely sought to maintain, and rebuked him for his insolent Book against Government by Women; and Knox gave it for his opinion of Her, That she had a proud mind, a crafty Wit, and indurate heart.

And the sooner to put Her to it,Mass opposed. the Provost and Bayliffs upon their Election at Edenburgh, customarily proclaim the general Ordinances, and Orders of the Town; In which they inserted against the Mass, and for which they were punished, and proclamation for freedome of Papists.

The Ministers oppose, and in private Conventicles, dispute Obedience to Soveraigns in that case, and conclude to be absolved; whereat the Council were offended, and Knox and Row urge it the more, and resolve to put the question (forsooth) to the Church of Geneva, which Knox undertakes to mannage.

The Queen being thus busied,Q. Eliz. sends to ratifie the peace at Edenburgh. to quiet her own discontents, Queen Elizabeth sends Sir Peter Mewtes to require the Ratification of the Peace at Edenburgh (as upon all Scotish distractions she evermore urged) who was answered as heretofore, that She would advise.

The General Assembly of the Kirk was now,Ministers assemble at pleasure, wherein the Ministers could not be ruled with any reason, but rashly offered their Book of Discipline; which the Lords, (even of their own Congregation) wisely thought fit, not so suddenly to prescribe, till the affairs of the Estate were settled, and the Ministers as madly would have it now, drawing (with all their [...]unning) the Gentry, to their side, and to assemble without the Lords; so that it was visible to wisemen, Excessit medicina modum, or rather, excessit medicina malum.

It was now conceived opportune,and therefore questioned. for the Queen, and the peace of all, that this assembling, at the Will of the Ministery, should be questioned, and if possible to make them void, unless by publick allowance of the Prince; for under colour of rectifying some disorders in the Ministery, or other petty occasions, they took opportunity by this means, to convene, and so to plot and vent all their devices against Government; and this being expresly conceived dangerous, and mutinous (as they managed the matter) it was stopt.

Then they propose the ratification of their Discipline Book, Their Discipline Orders subscribed. subsigned with hands enough of their Nobles, when it was devised; they durst then do no other, for fear of the Multitude; which the Queen refused; protesting mer [...]ily she was well assured, The Lords that subscribed, never ment to submit, being t [...] severe for their wilde tempers to obey, who under Writ, as children are baptized, fide Parentum.

[Page] Then they supplicate for maintenance, being as yet, only at the Will of the people.

To begin their work, a reasonable pittance was sufficient contribution, which afterwards, they inordinately sought means to increase.Maintenance allowed them.

And therefore for the present to please them, the Council Ordered, That the Bishops should have two parts of their Livings, and the other two parts should be gathered by appointment, for uses of the Ministers, and the common affairs of State: The Queen being served, the Ministery should have the Remainder. Which Knox interpreted in his Pulpit, to be

Two parts to the Devil,

The third between God and the Devil,

And the fourth for his Dam.

And by compute of their own Lords of the Congregation, a hundred Marks a year,very small. A Scotch Mark is 13. d. ob Sterling. 22. [...]. in gold; was then sufficient for a single Minister, viz. five Old Pieces, and three hundred Marks to the highest, with Wife and Children, (the Super-Intendents excepted.) The Lords fearing the Pride of the Ministers, appointed Modificators (as they stiled themselvs) left they should be over wanton,Modificators. which truly with this pittance could not be much feared. But indeed, for what they had (as the Queen observed) they never prayed for any blessing upon Her, to which Knox replied, That she had no more interest in that Revenue, than the Souldiers had to divide Christs Garments; Nay, she not so good title as they: for they parted not them untill Christ was crucified, But she shares whilst Christ is preaching. These words were accounted insolent, which he boasted of, That thus Truth will triumph.

At this time a Riot was committed by the Marquess D' Albuef, Lords comit Riot, the Earl Bothwell, and some others, upon the House of one Ramsey for his Daughter-in-law, Allisson Grage, in malice against the Earl of Arran who bore affection to her. The Ministers were great Sticklers herein, evermore siding in all quarrels, as might make for themselves, and supplicate the Queen for publick Justice; She execused her Uncle D' Albuef, being a Stranger to the Customes of the Country, but she would order his obedience and civility for the future.

This not sufficient, the Duke and Hamilton (fomented by Knox) take Arms against Bothwell; [...] take [...]ms. to appease them, the Queen sent Murray (lately made an Earl) & Huntley, to command Peace. But Bothwell having private conference with Knox, gained unto them the E. of Arran. Not many daies after Arran discovers to Knox, and others (but falsely) that Bothwell should conspire to take the Queen, and deliver her to him, & that Murray, and Lething [...]n the Secretary,Ar [...] Plot. should be murthered, and so he and Bothwell to govern all, which he resolved to discover to the Queen, and [Page] did;Anno 1562. immediately tetyring to his Father, the Duke of Castle-Herault, at Kennel; who, it seems, suspected his false Design, and restrained him. But he, getting loose, meets his Brother the Earl of Murray, who brought him to the Queen at Faulkland. Upon his Accusation Hamilton and Bothwell were secured, not without some appearance, that Arrans tale was disjointed, and therefore he was thereupon cunningly advised by Knox to pretend a little whimsey of distraction in the brain, to colour their Knavery. However, the Queen commits them all to Saint Andrews Castle, and takes from the Duke his Command of the Castle Dunbarton.

She returns to Edenburgh, where, according to the season, some Court pastimes were exercised by the Queen her self, against which Knox openly preached, and which begat a conference with him, the Lord Iames, Morton, and Lethington being present; accusing him to have irreverently and dishonestly spoken of her Majesty, endeavoring to draw the peoples affections from their duty, much besides his Text, but upon his better behaviour, there might be hope of the Queens Grace and Pardon, which was, as yet, deferred.

But she no sooner progressed to the North, Ministers assemble, her absence giving occasion (as at all such times) for the Ministers to assemble, and evermore to whisper some dangerous designs against them, on purpose the better to linck themselves in power for any plot; and to busie themselves in all State-affairs, which now began to be in difference amongst the Lords, especially Huntleys party against Murrays power, and the family of the Gourdons; and, which gave occasion to Knox, and his Party, to preach fears and jealousies, and to stand upon their Guard, doubting, very much, to be questioned for those, and other, his offences; They assemble at Ayre, where to secure himself, and to make his particular Crimes past, to be justified by them all, They enter a new and strange kind of Covenant, Vote themselves exempt from Justice. That whosoever shall molest, trouble, or hurt any of their Members, the fact shall be reputed hainous against the whole body of them all. And this was made an Act, and confirmed with Subscriptions, Sept. 1562. Amongst whom, in this rabble; they had got to side with them, such unruly Lords, as were like to make notable use of this their Doctrine, as Glencarn, Boyd, Uchiltry, and others.

Then travels Knox to Neisdall and Galloway, keeps correspondency with Bothwell, who had lately broke Prison; writes to the Duke to beware of Huntley, bruiting abroad that the Queen was surprized, Murray and all his Friends slain; in this his journey he challenges the Abbot of Cosranel to dispute, opposes his preaching, and puts Hay into his Pulpit.

In this progress of the Queens,The Queen opposed. the Castle of Innerness was [Page] maintained against her entrance by Gourdons Command, which by force was fain to be rendred, and his Kinsman, the Captain, hanged, and diverse other Confederates: whereupon Earl Huntley takes Arms and threatens Murray, Lethington, and Pittarro, to the hazard of the Queens person, who calls to her aid all the Counties to Aberdeen, summons the Castle of Finlator, which was denied her, and the Castle of Ashdown also, by Huntley. Gourdon seizes a Guard of sixty men, slew some, and disarmed all; for which fact, and Huntley also refusing to come in, they were proclamed Rebells, who raise a thousand men, the Queen as many,Rebels defeated. and to her aid comes the Duke, the Earls of Arguile, Murray, and Glencarn, and, neer Aberdeen, Huntley was beaten, his two Sons slain, and himself, a Corpulent Man, with the heat in Summer time, died without any wound, and was carried to Aberdeen, that night; which fulfilled his Wifes prophecy (affected to Witchcraft) that he should be in the Town that night without any hurt.

Gourdon was presently executed, who in fear, but more hope of life, revealed the Treason of his Father and Family, as also of the E. of Sutherland.

In those times the French were much imbroyled with Civil Dissention at home, which gave occasion that the Intelligence, and outward Friendship of both Queen of England and Scotland increased, and Lethington was sent express to England first, and then to the Guisians in France, concerning the Scots affairs, and the Queens Mariage, of which now began much talk, with the Infant of Spain, or with the Emperors Brother, or with the Duke d' Neveurs, but the most guessed aright, which after happened, with the Lord Darly son to the Earl of Lenox.

The Court came to Winter at Edenburgh, where the season commonly admits more plenty of Diet and Entertainments, and so had been usually observed at Christmas time, but now no more such Idolatrous mirth and prophaness, the Ministers rail against it, which had like to have brought much mischief, but that their business was somewhat interrupted by the slip of of a Chip of their own Block; for Panl Messans, Super-Intendent and maried,Mess [...]ns a Super-intendent hath a Bastard was questioned for getting Barn upon his Maid Bessy; he boldly denied her accusation, and much cunning there was, to hide this Sin from the general slander of the Ministery, Especially by the Papists Priests, whose Brotherhoods had been often canvased by the Congregation, for such Crimes. And at the instant, when the opinion of his Sanctity, and some juggling helps of his Brethren to boot, inclined the Judges to cleer him, notwithstanding ears and eyes of several Witnesses, afforded more than suspition of his guilt, then on the sudden, comes home the Wenches Brother from Far, being heretofore [Page] intrusted by Messans with Bribes and Tokens for them both,Anno 1563. with such other particulars as at last condemned him; who in the end confessed all, though he was Knox great Companion, and Ringleader into much mischief.

At this merry Christmas, Chatteler executed. one Chattelet, a French Gentleman, having had the honour to dance with the Queen, the usual grace of all Princes at such Balls, by which occasion he imboldened himself so far into disorder, that she caused him to be questioned, arraigned, and executed; Indeed he had placed himself so suspitious for Mischief, or Treason, as he acknowledged his guilt, and died penitent; and desirous (in an humble intention) to satisfy any jealousie of dishonour to the Queen, he said at this time of his suffering, that he was no otherwaies guilty, but, pour estre, trouve in lieu trop suspect. The Ministers commented at pleasure on these his last words, trouve in lieu trop suspect.

In Easter following the Mass was more publique, by permission of the Bishop of Saint Andrews, The Ki [...]ks justice upon Papists. and the Abbot of Quitholm, which had been forbidden under pain of Death, yet underhand permitted, but divers persons, Priests, were apprehended by the Kirkmen who take upon them to prosecute, examine, condemn and execute without authority of the Queen or Council, They pretending, That the Spirit of God did to their consciences justifie their actions.

And to the Court comes Knox, bold and busie, preaching it into a further practice, who was willed by the Queen to preach Jesus Christ, and him crucified, and peace to the People; to leave the affairs of State, and proceedings of Laws to her Execution.

He answered, That the Sword was trusted to Princes, whilest they execute true Iudgement; If otherwise, those that fear God may perform that duty, and justifie it. He had his Text for it, Samuel slew Agag, whom Saul saved; Elias spared not Jezabel, nor Baals Priests, in the presence of the King Achab; Phi [...]eas was no Magistrate, yet strook Zimri and Cosbi to the Death.

There was an Election of Super-Intendency at Dunfres, and the Bishop of Caithness stood for it, which the Queen opposed, against whom she had good reason to except, having been false to her private Items concerning the Ministery, and underhand revealed all to Knox, who had gotten interest with him his great Confident; and therefore the Queen advised Knox to be just in their choice of good men (for the Bishop was now cut out a chip of their Block.) But he is to be chosen upon this Score, That the free Spirit electing, they cannot err; And so being confident to carry it by his power, left the voting to the Commissioners.

His back being turned, they take Robert Punt; for now was [Page] Knox progressing his Itinerate Circuit, to Glasco, his visitation, and to get assistance of voices against those of the Mass, who were summoned to Assemble, in May following, at Edenburgh; where the Bishops, Priors, and Parsons appeared, and to please the People,Papists committed. divers Papists were committed, the first that ever suffered imprisonment for their Religion by publique Authority. Which yet was ill construed by the Kirk-men, as done, say they, by deceit, to avoid further quarrelling in Parliament, which began two daies after; And the Queen, attended with a train of Ladies, gave fresh matter of anger to the Kirk, for their fine clothes, and were not quiet till they presented Articles for Reformation therein; Knox insolency to Murray. and hereof being told by Earl Murray, as disturbers of greater consequences; Knox in a rage discharges Murray, by writing, from medling with the Kirk (in which business he had been very observant) or with his affairs (as he stiled his Popedome) Telling him, of his mean estate, when Knox took him up at London; and by his means, thus set up, beyond his merit, or mans imagination: but now; he leaves him loose to his own wit, and doubts not but to his destruction.

And thus he durst do to the Queens Brother, the prime man at the Stern of the State.

In this Parliament Acts and Ordinances were made, Parliament not piyant to the Kirk. against Adultery and Witch-craft, (which at that time abounded, even with the great ones) for restitution of Glebes, Reparation of the Churches; and yet all these could not content Knox, for he pulpits nothing but State-affairs; is displeased with all, And tells them,Knox. that although their Parliament ends, without due confirmation of the Kirks desires, their establishment was by the best of Parliaments, without King or Queen; and they scorn to steal away from their former stoutness, which hath thus far prospered; bids them be assured, that if the Queens affection in Mariage (which he knew of as well as the best of them all) should fall upon an Infidel (all Papists being so) they must expect plag [...]es to follow, and the Kirks curse to boot.

Of this, The Queen talks with Knox, he and Arskin, Super-intendent of Angus, were questioned by the Queen in private; She tells them in tears, which broke into brevity, How low her Princely Nature descended in often conferences with sundry of them; advising them to moderation, whilst she could Counsel for their quiet establishment. And thus restraining her self in punishing their disorders, both against her Person, her Power, and her deerest Uncles (for you spare none) you take the more Liberty to heighten your offences beyond pardon.

Knox answers, His answer. That his patience in suffering abominations, was more agreeable to be disputed than his pardon was to be pleaded, and if his tongue took liberty in his preaching place, she must take it as she pleased; for in the Pulpit, he was not Master of himse [...], and [Page] yet had no Superior but God, to speak plain, not to flatter any flesh upon the face of the Earth.

Qu. Doth my Mariage concern the Pulpit?

Kn. Yes, more than your Counsellors, who are so wedded to your affections, that none but we dare tell them their duty; and as my birth makes me a Subject, so my Gifts give me freedom of equality with your Peers, and it becomes me not to be less content with your publick actions; Your Mariage concerns us all.

Arskin was more moderate, and much moved at the Queens excess of Tears; Which rather burst out in despite so to be despised.

But Knox told her, He could better sustain her Tears, than the trouble of his Cause, or to betray the Common-wealth.

Herewith, she bid him be gone, but durst not question him, his faction was so great. Yet not over fearful to be less than her self, she set the committed Papists at Liberty; at which Knox was angry, using his grace at Meat, To be delivered from Idolatry, and to have Peace but for a season, and why (said some) not alwaies?

He answered, That he prayed in Faith, and his Conscience conceiving, during the Mass, peace could not be, therefore in Faith he wished it might not be.

To Sterlin the Court came,Insolency at the Altar Mass. her houshold-Mass never, till now, questioned; A zealous Brother, Patrick Cranston, past up to the Altar, and forced away what was thereon in presence of the Priest ready for their sacrifice; for which violation Cranston, and another, his Companion, Armstrong, were committed; which intrenching upon their late Covenant, concerned their whole Body. The News was carried to Knox, in all extremities his counsel was called for, and therefore, Pope-like, he sends his Breves.

IOHN KNOX

To all the Brethren, &c.Knox his Breves to his Brethren.

And thus subscribed, ‘Wheresoever two or three are gathered together in my Name, there am I in the midst.’

He remembers the Brethren of the dangerous by-past times, which their Assemblies withstood, but being not frequent, the adversary took advantage, that their bloods are to be shed in the persons of these co [...] mitted, for only opposing the rascal Multitude that repaird to that Id [...]l, with their devilish Ceremonies, & conjuring accursed Water; this preparation upon these two, and some others, is as a door opened for cr [...] elty against us all; for prevention he commands a meeting publick [Page] at Edenburgh, without fear of any power, or failing at the day assigned.

This Letter dispersed by Copies, came also to Ayre, and so to the Queen and Council, at Sterlin, and sentenced as Treason; the Nobility were speedily sent unto for their Authority of Condemnation in December.

In the mean time Murray returns from the North,questioned by the Council. confers with Lethington and L. Heris, advises Knox to submit for pardon, which he boldly refused, having sent for Spency Advocate of Dundee, and others, to assist him. But was brought to the Queen and Council in the evening; whom the Brethren followed in Multitudes, flocking and forcing, even to the Cabinet Chamber; where assembled the Duke, Arguile, Murray, Glencarn, Ruthen, and a full Council; and then the Queen came in presence. Lethington produces the Breves, which he acknowledges, and reads them. Being asked, whether he were sorry so much had past from his pen, he answered, Before I repent, teach me my Offence; If the vocating of the Queens liege people be a Crime, We must then distinguish between lawful and unlawful Assembling; what Convention hath been without my vocating? He was answered, That heretofore it might admit favourable construction, but now the Q. presence in the Kingdom, and more peaceable Authority, it becomes no private person to assume that boldness. Knox replied, The time that was, to me is now; though the Devil has got a vizard, he came in as himself, a Tyrant; and was it then more lawful? But now he practiceth under the Cloke of justice, what he could not do by strength; And if my Convention was without the Q. command, so hath all that God hath blessed, since the beginning of this action. The Q. finding the pulse of the major party of the Lords, consented to spare further censure, upon his better behavior, and so he was returned.

The General Assembly began in December, General Assembly. and the Petitions which the Ministers of Churches presented, were neglected, to which they concluded,Goodman. if the Q. will not, we must. Christ. Goodman an Englishman of their gang, demanded of the Secretary, What title either the Queen had to the thirds, or the Papists to two parts? He was answered, Ne sit peregrinus curiosus in aliena republica. But he replied, I am so, in the policy of Scotland, but free born in the universal Church of God, and the care thereof, as equal mine, as any yours. Knox craved the Opinion, and sentence of the Assembly, for his behaviour formerly and present; to which some said, It was not for them to justifie rash Iudgments of men, who speak their own pleasure, not the publick profit. Nothing intervend, but the Ministers continual railing, until the next general Assembly in Iune 1564. whereto, the Lords adjoined; but withdrew into the Inner Council-house, and required to confer there with the Super-Intendents, and chief Ministers; answer was returned, That [Page]as they were members of the Church,Anno 1564.so they ought to propose in publick, and be assisted by the whole body; inferring some foul play, to draw the Ministers singly to the faction of the Court. Which the Lords in answer endeavored to cleer, assuring, that no conclusion should be of this discourse, without consent of the Assembly.

And so they were permitted a choice number, among whom we may be assured Knox was not wanting, and to watch the Scribes pen.

The Lords began to remonstrate the grace of the Queen for liberty in Religion, though not of her own profession, which should deserve good Offices from that Church, to maintain her advancement, and to procure obedience of her people, with their unanimous and uniform Prayer for her Majesty, especially Mr. Knox to be moderate in obedience to her person and State; for others by the evil example may imitate the like liberty, albeit not perhaps with the same discretion and fore-sight.

Knox answered, Knox his Insolent answer. The Queens grace is not the grace of God; Idolatry is maintained by her own person, and for her Sins the Land must lament. So was Juda and Jerusalem for Manasses; and though not all the people, some followed, and some consented, by act and deed, by suffering and permission, as the Q. and you Lords.

They told him of his prayer, which was, To illuminate her heart, if thy good pleasure so be, with condition: he answered, We must ask according to his will, thy will be done, and so the Master of the Prophets and Apostles taught him to pray.

They said it gave a doubt in the people of her conversion. No, said Knox, In her obstinate Rebellion, not to hear true preaching, but will use the Mass; and Peter prayed, That if it were possible, the thoughts of Simon Magus may be forgiven him, and the same doubt toucheth me of the Queen.

After long disputation of the duty of subjects in general, which Knox disallow'd in each particular, Lethington desired the Lords to decide these questions, and whether the Q. should have Mass? but Knox opposed sentence, but in the Assembly, yet they fell to voting and dissented, without concluding.

In Iuly the Q. in progress,Lenox and Darly from England. there past many letters of kindness between the two Queens, with costly presents and tokens.

In October the E. of Lenox returns from England, and for his sake, the sooner to restor him to his lands, after 22. years exile, a Parliament is called at Edenburgh, in Decemb. and then arrives his Son Henry Stuart, Lord Darly, out of England, and E. Bothwell out of France, against whom Murray complains, concerning the Conspiracy, (alleged by the Earl of Arran,) and for breaking Prison.

The Q. taking great affection to Darly, The Q. affection to Da [...]ly. she posts away Lethington to Queen Elizabeth, that she meant to mary him, the rather, [Page] he being of Kin to both Queens; for his Mother was their Cosin German (and of the same name Stuart by his Father.)

King Iames the fifth having lost his two Sons, declared his Resolution for the Earl of Lenox to be his Heir;His de [...]cent. but the Kings death, and his Daughter born, prevented that Design.

Then comes the Earl out of France, with intention to mary that Kings Widow, and that failing, he maries Margarite Dowglas, and his Son maries the Kings daughter Mary, and so the effect of the Kings desire continues the Crown in the Name and Family.

Q. Eliz. Q [...]. Eliz not displeased with the Match. not pleased to suffer such Contracts with Subjects, prejudicial to the Crown, (seeing her great affection) pretends to declare her Heir to the Crown of England, if she might advise her Mariage, and commands Lenox, and Darly, to return to England, but underhand well satisfied, she promoted the Mariage, as good security to the succession of the Crown of England, he being second heir to the Q. of Scots; Nor cared Q. Eliz. to have her meanly maried, who she thought (of her self) was too proud.

The Court affairs hindred not the business of the Church,The Ki [...]k enemy to Mass. who receive several Letters from the brethren of the West, to them at Edenburgh, Dundee, Fife, and Angus, to mind them of the Mass, which stuck in their stomacks, till it were vomitted out of the Kingdom. They feared the Papists Pasche, and so made supplication to the Q. by the Super-intendent of Lothian, for effecting their desires; which the Secretary received, and procured the Q. letters to several Bishops, of St. Andrews, Aberdeen, and other places, to forbear Mass.

The Communion was administred in Edenburgh, Apr. 1565. and neer Easter the Bayliffs imprisoned a Priest,Punish a Mass Priest. one Carvet, after Mass, and others with him, revesting him with his Robes, and so, Priest-like, mounted him on the Market Cross, with his Chalice bound to his hand, and his body to the Cross, for 2 hours, whilest the Boyes sweetned him with rotten Easter Eggs.

The next day he and his Companions were accused and convinced by Assize, and sparing his life, he was again tied to the Cross, for 3 hours, the hang-man beside him, to keep off the Malignity of the people, and after imprisoned, whom the Q. shortly after released, and well rewarded him, and his Assistants Low and Kennedy, Bothwell called to account, flies into France. with livings. In May convened at Edenburgh, the E. Murray, with his Confidents, to keep the Law-day against Bothwell, who durst not appear, but fled into Frace, not without suspition of favor and maintenance of the Q. though she was innocent. This convention (of colour concerning Bothwell) being, Murray, Arguile, Glencarn, Morton, and others, Lords and Barons, sat upon business of the Church, for enlarging some Articles, to be ready for the next general Assembly.

[Page] The Queen as far as Sterlin, Anno 1565. soon had knowledge of the Assembly, and jealous of all Conventions without her presence, commanded their appearance before her, with the Super-Intendents, The Q [...]een propo [...]es her Mariage with Darly, and others. This served her turn another way, to give presence to her investing the Lord Darly with titles of Honour before Mariage; and procured them to sign the Ratification of the Contract, though Murray refused, and excused, until the whole, or principal, Nobility should be present.

At this instant, arrives at St [...]rlin, Sir Nicholas Throgmorton, Ambassadour from England, being teturned with [...]ethington; who declared, that his Queen was highly displeased with this precipitate Mariage, and the meaness of the Man, and desired that the Earl of Lenox, and his Son Darly, might be dismissed back to England. To this the Queen gave fair words, and would satisfy her Sister by Embassy of her own.

And so was the Mariage propounded in Council, and granted by all, with Murrays consent, upon these terms, to establish Religion, and abolish Mass, but in that particular to be further discussed at Saint Iohnstons.

And forthwith was Darly created Earl of Ross, who is created E. [...]. and withall the Queen called for the Super-Intendents, pleasing them with some Court-Holy-water, but referred the business of Religion to a publique Dispute for Peace to the Kingdom. This was not satisfactory to them, but they advise upon six Articles for the next Assembly; And then they presented them to the Queen at Saint Iohnstons by Commissioners from the Church National at Edenburgh, Six Articles of the Church National. as they now stile themselves.

First, For abolishing all manner of Popery, universally to be suppressed, not onely in each Subject, but also in the Qu [...]ens own Person.

Secondly, Provision of Maintenance for the Ministry, and dissposing of Livings.

Thirdly, For Tryal of Sufficiency of Super-Intendents, and Ministers.

Fourthly, For all lands of Popish Foundation to be restored for maintenance of the poor, and Scholars preferment.

Fiftly, Against all horrid Crimes, Ecclesiastick and Temporal, be appointed two Iudges.

Sixthly, For ease and support of poor H [...]sbandmen, &c.

The Queen receives these Articles, but refers answer, till she comes to Edenburgh in eight daies: which displeased the Assembly, who therefore have private meetings, and elect eight persons, to see the Brethren well armed, and after a longer time of attendance, get answer in Writing.

To the first, Her answer. The Queen is not perswaded to Presbytery, and believes no impiety in the Mass, and so not to be prest against Her [Page] Conscience, nor will she forsake hers; and having no assured consideration to countervail the same, she may not loose thereby, her Allies of France, (the maried Ally of this Realm) and other her Confederates; That seeing they plead for Freedome of Conscience, she lists not to be bound up; That for the Establishment thereof in the body of the Realm, she refers to the consent of Parliament, and in the mean time assures, that for Religion, on her part, none shall be disturbed.

Secondly, She thinks it unreasonable to be defrauded of so great a part of the Crowns Patrimony, as to put the Patronage of Benefices, out of her own hands, and want Support; but allows consideration of her own Necessity, and the Ministers Support.

The rest in effect, she refers to Parliament.

By the way from Saint Iohnst [...]n, to shew her inclination to the Kirk, being to Witness the Christening of the Lord Levinstons child, She gave her presence to the Protestant Sermon, which she never did before.

And yet had she notice of some Conspiracy of the Kirk, upon which, divers were committed at Edenburgh.

And being minded to mary,The Mariage hastened. she prorogues the Parliament till September, and summons by Letters, such Lords and Gentlemen, that were neer, with Arms and Forces for fifteen daies to attend her person at Edenburgh the 23. of Iuly, and proclamation also for Free-holders in like manner;Ross made D. of Rothsay. then Ross was made Duke of Ro [...]hsay; and the same day, the Banes and Mariage was concluded.

Murray, both privately and publickly was advised to attend, but refusing, an Herald is sent, and after eight and forty hours, he was denounced Rebell, and put to the Horn, and Arguile also.

And now begins Parties to stir, Athole against Arguile, Lindsey against Rothess; the Lord Gourdon, after three years imprisonment in Dunbar, was released and restored, to be a Bar in the North to ballance with Murray.

In the evening the Mariage was proclamed, The Mariage in July 1565. By name Henry and Mary King and Queen of Scotland, and solemnized the next Morning, 27. Iuly 1565.

Not without Divine providence, for the more certain conjunction of both Kingdomes in their right of Descension from Margarite (the eldest Daughter to Henry 7. of England) who had but two children, Iames the fifth, by Iames the fourth, and Margarite Dowglas, by Earl Angus, her second Husband. This Iames the fift, had but one Child, Mary, sole Heir to the Crown; Margarite Dowglas brought up with her Uncle Henry 8. maried Stuart Earl of Lennox, who was banished into England, by them came Henry Lord Darly, and Charles, father to Arabella. So that [Page] the whole right of Q. Margarite (all other issue of H. 8. failing) was united in these.

The Earl Rothess, the Laird Grange, and Pilcar, with others of Fife, were put to the Horn, for not appearing, and immediately the Drums beat,The K. and Q. take Arms, for men of War, to take pay for the King and Queen, which alteration begat several fears.

The Lords disperse to Arguile, so do the Lords. and send Elphinston into England for support, who brought ten thousand pound Sterling. And in August the Lords meet at Ayre; Hamilton, Arguile, Murray, Glencarn, Rothess, Boyd, Uchiltry, and Others, conclude to be in force the 24. of August; which the King prevented, by hasty proclamation of their rebellion, and commanding all men to appear at Lithgow the same day.

Upon the ninth of August (being Sunday) the King comes to the High Kirk at Edenburgh,Knox sermon against the Government. and hears Knox preach, who speaks against Government of wicked Princes, and for the sins of the people God gives them Boyes and Women; Iustly punishing Ahab for not ordering the Harlot Jezabell.

Immediately Knox was summoned before the Council, and silenced for twenty daies; and Cragg to supply his place.

The 25. of August the King and Queen journied to Glasgow, Both Armies match in sight. and the next day the Lords met at Paisley, with a thousand Horse, and march to Hamilton, keeping the passes in sight of the King and Queen, and so to Edenburgh, entering the Town, notwithstanding the Canon-shot of the Castle; and immediately beat their Drum, and offered pay, for Defence of God (as they called it) but to Men or Arms came to their Support; and that was strange, for all the chief Lords were there, the Duke, Murray, Arguile, Glencarn, Rothess, Boyd, Uchiltry, and other Barons. They write expostulatory Letters to the King and Queen, without answer, who martch with five thousand men; Lenox had the Van, Morton the Battel, and the King and Queen the Rere, and come immediately towards Edenburgh. In the mean time the Castle makes six shot of Canon, and the next day the Lords depart to Hamilton.

The King & Queen pass to Sterlin, and command all to return to Glasgow, where remaining four daies (the Lords being gone to Dunfres) they return again to Sterlin, their Army increasing both Horse and Foot, and so to Fife, where the Lords subscribe, to defend the King and Queen against the English and Rebells, The Lords proclamed Rebells. and so come to Saint Andrews, where the King summons the Lords by Name to appear within six daies, which they refusing, are put to the Horn; and being come to Edenburgh, they proclame, The design of the Lords, under pretence of Religion, to suppress the present Government, or to appoint Counsel of their own.

In October the Super-Intendent of Lothian, with the whole [Page] Ministery under his Charge, meet at Edenburgh, present a supplication to their Majesties, by their Super-Intendents, Spotswood and Lindsay, for payment of their Stipends, which is promised to be paid.

The Lords removed to Carlisle, the King and Queen march from Edenburgh the 8. of October towards Dunfres, mustering 18000. men, and marching up and down, return to Edenburgh.

The most of these Lords being of the Religion,Fly into England, and called The Lords of the Congregation, fled into England to the Earl of Bedford, Lieutenant of Berwick; from thence Murray posts to London, but leaves the Lords at Newcastle. He was much mistaken, for the Queen, with great sute ere she affords him audience, demanding, how he, being a Rebel to her Sister, dares thus boldly take protection in her Realm, denies to support him, or any his Confederate Companions. However, after Murrays departure,and get aid, she sent them aid, and writ in their favour to the Queen.

Upon this Rebellion, divers of the Kirk party, fled also, as ingaged therein, and those remaining were in some fear. Iohn Knox, stiling them absent, the best and goodlyest part of all the Nobility, chief Members of the Government, alwaies praying for them in publique, and reviling those that appeared for the King, even in the presence of all the Council.

In November all those Lords in Rebellion were summoned against the fourth of February, for Treason, and not appearing, the Queen publiquely declared her Defence, and Maintenance of the Catholiques, and sundry Lords, and others, went openly to Mass.

At last the banisht Lords humbled themselves for the King and Queens favour.but submit The Duke and his Friends at Newcastle in England, by mediation of the Abbot of Kilcunning, had pardon upon condition to depart into France, which he did.

The 25. Decemb. the Commissioners of the Churches for the general Assembly convene in Edenburgh, General Assembly. and conclude, That notwithstanding the Acts of Parlament and Proclamations, the Masse and Papistry was maintained, and new Collectors being put in, forbidding allowances to the Ministery, in great want. In these they resolved to have relief.

The Catholiques for themselves supplicate also, for publique use of their Religion, which was granted, and they offered the dispute, being backed by the King and his Faction, all Papists, together with the power of Rizio an Italian favourite, under title of the French Secretary; Rizio the French Secretary. and yet these Lords now at [Page] Court were divided, Morton, Mar, and Lethington, against Huntley and Bothwell.

And again the General Assembly meet at Edenburgh, and order a publique Fast throughout all the reformed Churches;The first Publique fast in Scotland. the manner devised by Knox, and printed, which is the first method of that kind that we read of in Scotland. So thereupon followed the effects, Supplication to the Queen for Regulation of the means ordained for Support of the Ministery. Spotswood, Row, and Lindsey present their case. And the Queen answered, that the fault was in their own Officer and Controller, Pittarrow, who medled with the thirds; and so the Ministers and Assembly departed to their Residencies.

In Ianuary arrives (through England) Monsieur Rambullet, Rambullet Ambassadour of France. Embassadour from France, with 40. horse his Train, who brought to the King the Order of Saint Michael, (the Scots call it the Cockle-shell) and at this Ceremony of investing, the Heraulds were in some disorder to devise Arms for the Kings bearing; The Arms of Scotland were not allowed; seeing the Parliament denied him the Crown Matrimonial, he could have no other, but as Earl and Duke, How the King should quarter his Coat arms the Queen bidding them allow him no more than his Due. Her love becomes cold, for she began to set her Name before His, and not long af [...]er to leave him out of all writings. And because of some necessary use of his Signet alone, It was advised out of his hand, and trusted to Rizio.

And now at Edenburgh, the Court busie about the Attainder of some of the banished Lords, not submitting, which by reason of dissenting parties was staied, and more particular occasioned by the Murther of Rizio. This Italian (or Piedmontoise) a Musitian by Profession, but by his Wit and cunning got to be Secretary to the Queen for French, as Mettallan was of State; who for envy to him, and love to Murray (Rizio's Enemy) plotted revenge with Morton, and Lord Herris, to be rid of Rizio, by any way: but Morton refused. Then he insinuates with Rizio, and tells him, that the Office of Chancelour being in Morton, a man unlearned in Letters, or Laws, was only protected by the Queens favor; which if by his means withdrawn, his Office might be soon surrendred to Rizio, and he made capable thereof, by being free Denizon, and naturalized.

Hereupon Mortons Castle of Tantallon was summoned into the Kings hand, who enters as heir to his Grand-father the Earl of Angus. Rizio is designed Earl, and money offered for Melvin Castle; with the like increase of Favour, neglects his duty to the King, and draws on his own Death, now concluded by George Dowglas an active man, the Lord Lindsey, Lord Ruthen, and the Earl of Lennox the Kings Father. Rizio suspects, and keeps Guard of 50. Halberds. Then they adjoin the E. Morton, [Page] hardly drawn thereto, until his right to the Earldom of Augus was restored, and further capitulates by Articles, That Religion should be re-established, as before the Queen returned out of France; The banished Lords to be restored; And the fact to be owned by the King, who signed hereto.

Lenox posts into England to the Lords, and brings them neerer the Borders. The Confederates, and Morton, with strength and secrecie, seizes the keys of the Palace, leaves some forces in the Inner Court below, to surprize such Lords as were not of the plot, and staies in the presence. The King, with Ruthen and five more, went up the back-stairs to the Queen at Supper, waited on by the Countess Arguile, Rizio, and some Servants; She was amazed to see them armed; Ruthen fastens upon Rizio, tells him a meaner place became him; who ran to the Queen, and clasping her, the King gently takes the Queen in his Arms, and saies, He is resolved to punish the Villain for his abuse to the Countrey, and so delivers him to Ruthen, who carries him down to Morton. Bothwell and Huntley raise the Court, but are beaten back by the Guard, and forced to fly. Metallan, who though chief in this design, supped with Athole to keep him in, and himself from mistrust, but his Servants were in the fray, which scuffling below was suspected above, as a Rescue for Rizio, and so they suddenly stab'd him with Daggers. The South [...]aiers had warned him of the Bastard, which he interpreted to be Murray; but it was George Dowglas who was a bastard.

These Murtherers at the first had proposed to hang him, and had Halters for that purpose, but in hast they stabb'd him with 53. wounds. Bothwell and Huntley came in to the Close, but soon had their arrand to begon or to taste the same sauce. Rizio had ambitiously managed the most affairs with pride, beyond the equipage of the King, and was designed this Parliament to be Chancelour, which made those Lords in envy to be his Enemies, and forced the King, and his Father to sign to his Death. Rizio had advice of this by the French Priest Dannet, but his fate was unavoidable, which the Queen some time resented with tears, threatning revenge, which to avoid they fly to England, where Ruthen dies. The Noise hereof in the Town, caused the Provost to ring the Common Bell (or sonner le Tocsen, as the French speak) assembling 500. and come up to the Court, but the King told them, all was well.

The King,The K. turns Protestant. to strengthen himself after this Action, inclined to the Religion, and subscribed to a Proclamation, that all Bishops, Abbats, and other Papists, should avoid the Town, which they did; and commands the Provost, and those of Lieth and Conogate, to be in arms, with advice also to other Lords to hasten [Page] to him with force. And now comes Murray, and other banished Lords being sent for (as the Covenant against Rizio was subscribed) convoyed by Hume with 1000. horse; The Earls Cathness, Banish [...] Lords sent for. Athole, Sutherland, with all the Bishops being departed the Town; In comes the other new faction of Lords, and in Council advise the Queen to be satisfied with Rizio's death, and take it as good service; the Queen dissembling her passion, got the remove of all the men in Arms out of the Court; and so with some domestiques in the night drew the easy King to fly with her to Dunbar, sending for all the Lords to attend in five daies.

The Religion, by these factions ever-more get advantage, which otherwise this Parliament now sitting might have lessned, being most Papists, for a dozen wooden Altars, were prepared, to be set up in St. Giles Church.

The Queen, now assisted with Bothwell, Huntley, and others, with Proclamation before them, march with a thousand back to Edenburgh, from whence the united Lords (but divided in opinions) depart and disperse, and Knox we easily believe was not left behind. And much troubled were he and his, that the King by his Proclamation, now excused himself from the Murther of Rizio, who offended all men (their own words) the fact being done for his Honour, if he had wisdome to see it, and so lost his Credit and Friends by his Inconstancy: and tr [...]ly it was rumoured, and some writ so, that Knox had a hand in it.

Divers Lords were put to the Horn, their Lands escheated, and many of them executed, but Arguile and Murray received into favour, and both factions somewhat pieced and reconciled. The King and his Father neglected,K. negl [...]cted, Bothwel advanced. and Bothwell preferred very highly.

The Ministers Supplicate for their Stipends, complaining very humbly (not usual) of the Officers and Collectors, and for redress, desire Mandatory Letters for Restitution, and to stop it in the Queens Exchequer till farther Order. In all she promised very gratious relief.

The 19. of Iune 1566. the Queen at Edenburgh was delivered of a Son,The Queen brought to bed of a Son. with exceeding joy, and great happiness to all the Kingdome, and the several assemblies followed, assisted by Murray and Arguile, wherein Paul Messans formerly excommunicate about his Bastard, Me [...]ans penance. as aforesaid, and now returned out of England, was to be received into the Church again.

Knox invited him home, and presuming of his free pardon, and forgiveness, sent his Apostolique Letters to accompany him to the Assembly, and tells them in the words of St. Paul (concerning the excommunicate incestuous person▪) It is sufficient that he was rebuked of many &c. For this cause I write, that I [Page] might know your obedience in all things;Anno 1566. and to whom you forgive, I forgive also &c. But notwithstanding this Apostolick Command, his Repentance is prescribed, much like a Penance; Presenting himself in Sackcloth, bare of Bonnet, and bare of Shoon for an hour, at the Entry of Saint Giles Church in Edenburgh, at seven hours in the Morn, till Prayers, psalm and Text, and then upon the Stool all Sermon: and so for three several Church-daies, and confesses his Repentance. And in this manner also in Iedwart and Dundee; which after all performed, and received a Repentant, He complaining of this rigour and shame, without taking leave of any, retires back again into England.

The Bishop of Galloway, the Earl of Huntleys Brother, being called to Council, could not brook his former title of Super-Intendent, as he was stiled, and thereof formerly well pleased, but must be called Bishop of Galloway.

In August, one Harris, that had been of the Queens Chapel, but lately of the reformed Religion, and got into E. Ruthens service, having acted in the Murther of Rizio, was thereof convict, hanged and quartered.

The King condemned of all,The K. discontented letters intercep [...]ed. and neglected of the Queen, wrote to the Pope, and to Spain, complaining of the Queens ill Government of the Catholiques, which she intercepted, and resented to his ruin. For Bothwel to bring on his Design aimed to be Principal, and to effect his Greatness, thought good to procure Morton to be called home (but not to Court) where he might look on, and not be seen, free from fear and danger, and though a Kins-man to the King, yet his Power was lessened to nothing.

Most writers complain of these times, and some of them, like Noahs blessed Sons, overspread with the Mantle of silence the nakedness of these unnatural actions, of such, as we ought to ow duty and piety unto, pittying the Errors of Princes. Their excellent endowments of Nature and Morality, not to be exampled, and yet Shipwrackt in mis-governing. I cannot search into all the Causes, which drew on these lamentable events, Secret Lothings in Wedlock, which who knows, but the Actors; dislike, hatred, freedom, revenge; seconded with false shews of Reason, and Colour of Law and Justice, what will it not do? Her Husband had dragged Rizio from her affection, and favour, to death. He was not crowned, but made publique by Her Proclamation, not acknowledged by Parliament, and in law but a Private Man, and her Subject, and so lyable to judgment.

But his powerful kindred and Friends, prevent that attempt. Secret Justice is Justice; formalities are for common Causes; [Page] and the Princes power may dispence with forms in case of necessity or convenience, and so he became an object of wicked mens malice.

And now had Knox procured,Knox procures Geneve Confession. though heretofore he cunningly refused, as fearing prevention or false play, when now not overlooked, he to his purpose got the Churches of Geneva, Bern, and Basil, with others, reformed in Germany and France, to send to the Kirk of Scotland the sum of their several Confessions of faith, he alleging the dissonant opinions of Scotland; which occasioned an Assembly of Knox and his Confidents, who having a confused irregulation, without any positive Articles, concluded as the most cunning way to assent to all without exceptions, and so returned answer; as if in Spirit to jump in faith and discipline, who never could agree amongst themselves in either.

At this time (the Kirks saies so) Bothwell was wounded in chace of the Theeves at Liddisdale, Bothwel visited by the Q. whom the Queen visited, and thereof in grief, took sickness in extremity; but say they by binding Cords about her shacle bones, knees and great Toes (a pretty cure for our Mountebanks, It seems an od fit of the Mother) she revived, prayed in English, and commends the cause of the Catholiques to Murray and Bothwell, whom she assigned Regents.

The King posts from Sterling to the Queen at Iedburgh, where he found Her somewhat convalesced (saies the Churchmen) but scarce would speak to him; who immediately returns to Sterlin, where the Prince was, and so to his Father at Glasgow.

She being recovered, took pleasure to visit Bothwell, who was brought in a Litter to her, and cured; and afterwards she progressed to the Borders neer Barwick, which she viewed within half a Mile, the Governor discharging the Ordnance for her honor,Sheprogresses to the Borders at Berwick. and offered her his lawful Service, visiting her in excellent Equipage.

The Borderers are the Inhabitants of both Nations; Men of War,Borders, how bounded. Subtile, Nimble, Experienced, Adventurous in arms; comprehended by the East, Middle, and West, but bounded and limitted, as the Success of War gives distance, neer or farther off. Continual fewd between either for three hundred years. Aut Bellum inter eos populos, aut belli praeparatio, aut Infida pax fuit. A Custome there is amongst all, never to believe a complaint against any, unless one of his own Countrey-men will witness it also, according to that of Cambden, Nulla nisi Scotus in Scotum; Nullus nisi Anglus in Anglum testis admittitur. which seldom happens, and so they sight it out.

And these were Receivers of Fugitives of both Nations, as [Page] their Crimes or Ne [...]essities required protection or pardon; Indifferent Subjects to either Nation, or rather acknowledging no Soveraign. Over these people either Kingdome had their three several Governours to rule them by force.

The Baptism of the Prince was solemni [...]'d at Sterlin by the B. of S. Andrews▪ Prince baptized James. at five a clock after-noon, Decem. 17. 1566. after the manner of the Protestant Churches, and christned Iames, the Witnesses were the Earl of Bedford, then Governor of Berwick, for the Queen of England; the Count de Briance for Charles the French King, and an Ambassadour for Philbert Duke of Savoy. The Queen of Englands Present a Font of pure Gold, valued three thousand Crowns, though she grieved in heart to hear her Rival prevent her in the honour of a Mother. The King belike, knowing the English Ambassadours Charge not to salute him King, was not present at these Solemnities, nor required, but kept his Chamber; His Father sends to him to repair to Glasgow, which he did, without adiew to any, and not a Mile on his way, but he felt pa [...]gs in his Stomach, and at Glasgow blistered blewish; which the Physicians suspecting, with their Antidotes, and his Fresh Youth, he recovered.

The Earl of Bedford had in Commission to compound the differences Domestique of the Court, between King and Queen; and for them to forbear the bearing the Arms of England quartered with Scotland, and to ratifie the old Treaty at Edenburgh. The last she refused, as in some particulars derogate from the right of her Issue to the Crown of England.

The Queen in this Christening Triumph,The Kirk have all they desire congratulates all Suters, the Kirk put in, and had what they desired; Subscription to their Maintenance, out of the thirds of Benefices, and presented by the Bishop of Galloway to the Assembly, when having got their ends, their Stomachs were yet squemish, for the Collections (which granted but of Grace) themselves to gather, pretending, That it was their part to preach to the People, and to expect from them maintenance necessary, as of duty the Pastor to pray, might crave of his flock to pay, and farther for them to have no care; and also, seeing the Tythes were onely for the Ministery, they required the Protestants should keep them in their own hands, and be so accountable unto them, and not to permit the Papists to meddle therein. So at one blow they meant to acquit the Papists of their Portion. It was observed, how soon those Men stand upon terms, and by creeping into the people, begin now to give Law to their Benefactors.

And now also,Manner of excommunicating. they thunder Excommunications for trivial Offences, deny the Communion to whom they or the Godly party are displeased withall; And though an Offender, repentant, [Page] and done his Penance, yet he must stay from the Sacrament, till the Minister saies, that he is penitent enough, that is, when he thinks fit, as he likes the party; If not, they are all, Father, Mother and Daughter, called into Disciplinarian Consistory, a place of Criminal Infamy. And although the Lay had place therein to judge, yet the Kirk did all, and more than ever any Bishops Spiritual Jurisdiction; and the Magistrates Power and Office was only to effect the Forms of the others censure, and be their Executioners. And of all, they had procured the Queens consent at Sterlin: Nay more, they obtained for every Borough, a douation of Altarage, Annalls, and Obites, which alwaies heretofore were due to the Papists, but now to be disposed for maintenance of the Ministery, without stickling at these Abominations. Ingrateful. And how ingratefully they acknowledged the Queens bounty, they divulging, that she intending revenge against the King, stroke in with the Kirk, lest they might disquiet her designs and affection to Bothwell; who also for the favours and countenance that he received in England, was much their friend.

And thus heightned,Prescribe good behaviour in England. they take upon them to write to the Bishops and Pastors of England, who profess with us (say they) the truth of Jesus Christ.

Taking knowledge that divers Brethren, the most learned (no doubt) in England, are deprived Ec [...]lesiastical function, for not using S [...]perstitious and Idolatrous Vestments; urging the Apostolick Argument, To do, as to be done unto, insisting much upon the tenderness of scrupulous Consciences, and that the Brethren, that use not those Raggs, neglect not you that do, and so conclude, not to rend Christs Garments for trifles.

But they have sithence learned other language, and practice worser usage, blood and death, who follow not therein all things of their discipline.

The Bishops reformed were as busie on their parts, not to be presbytered in their own Jurisdictions; and procure to be obeyed in all such cases, as before, in the time of Popery were used in the Consistory, and therefore to discharge the Commissioners; for it was now conceived the best policy in the Queen, not to deny either of them, especially where they might cross and quarrel themselves.

The King reasonable well recovered of his drench, was visited by the Queen at Glasgow, and brought him and his Father to Edenburgh, lodging him neer the Court, in a conveniency from noise, and proper for his health; where she often visited him;The King murdered. and lay in bed with him; but returning to her Palace, the 9th. of February in the 21th. year of his age, 1566. the King was, say some, strangled in his Bed, at Midnight, and [Page] one Servant that watched with him, the House blown up with Gun-powder, his body was found the next morning in a Garden, without the Town Wall, and without any mark of fire. Bothwell, with some others, by warrant, caused the body to be viewed by the Chirurgions, at the Q. command, and buried in the Abby.

This end had Henry Stuart, H's Character 18. Moneths a King. He was a Prince of high extract by Father and Mother. His Character sans-parel; comely, tall, ingenious and liberal; fitted for all Excellencies of mind and body, if time had lent him experience. He had a quick wit, and writ well, and because he was a King, Covert-barn, and meddled the less, he had the more leisure to hunt and hawk, and ride great Horses, and therein the Mastery. His vices were thereafter; Greatness and Ease made him feed high, and those brought him to Incontinency, though the Queen was beautiful and young enough for a Princess. Such neglects of his, by the Designs of others, hastened his ruine, who took boldness thereby to work their own ends, without the least Guilt of the Queen.

This is the report of some,The [...] report of the Kings death. yet others give as a Story. For the Ministers in hate to the Queen (who truly it appears did much for them in the case of Policy, and their immerits) tells us that by Bothwels direction, Sir Iames and Gilbert Balfores, Chalmers, Spency, Sebastian, Iohn de Bourdeaux, and Ioseph brother to Rizio, Domestiques of the Queen, and Strangers of all Nations, were the men that were Actors in the Murther; Bothwell being in hope to succeed him, in case the Divorce from his Wife should come timely from the Pope,Bothwel divorced, which his hast could not stay for; and easie enough it was to infuse this into honest Lenox, who supplicates the Queen for tryal of Bothwell by Assize, before the Earl of Caithness President, the Earl Cassiles, and other Peers, fourteen in all; who cleered Bothwel, and this was dispatched for satisfaction of the Commissioners of the Christned Prince, and their Soveraigns. But Bothwell follows the Queen in her visit of the Prince at Sterlin, from whence he carries her to Dunbar, and for which violence he gets a general pardon, and so includes that of the King, if it should farther burst out.

There was no let to the Queens affection but Bothwels Wife,and maried to the Queen. from whom he was soon divorced, and both content; for She made the first hasty second mariage with the Earl of Sunderland, and he, after the banes publiquely asked by Crage the Minister, was married to the Q. May 15. 1567. (Mala nubunt Mense Maio) by the Bishop of Orkenay.

And truly compare all those which have writ of this Queen, [Page] several Authors,Anno 1567. and in several Languages (for all are partial) we may yet pick out truth, concerning her Husbands, and her hasty mariages, in their proper stories.

That Morton, Summary of the la [...]e Murders, and their Acc [...]ssaries. and Murray, and many others besides, plotted the Murther of the late King, upon Malice, Ambition, and Revenge; Each of them by several Interests. But Bothwell got the best Bone, and they their Bones. Indeed they also herein murthered the honour of their Mistress, for she seemed a Property, whirled about with every wind, which they sailed by.Buchanan Books. Buchanan speaks much of this matter in a worser way, and payes the Queen to the Purpose in his History; as also in his Pamphlet, The Detection; Both which were condemned in Parliament; and of them both he repented, Wishing that his blood might expiate those his Falsities and Impieties.

Udal hath more of it in her excuse,Udall. and if not partial, take him, who afterwards writ to K. Iames. Or if you please, take our relation who write the neerest of truth than can be gathered, and thus it was.

Sir Roger Aston an English-man (and preferred in Court by the Earl of Dunbar) lodging in the Kings Chamber that night of his Murther;Sir Roger A [...]o [...]s repo [...]t of the Kings Murder. Both of them smelt the fire of a Match, which caused them hastily to leap out of their Beds, and out at a window into the Garden; the King had his Sword in his hand, and suspecting Treason, as also hazard of the young Prince, hastily commanded Aston to speed thither and prevent his danger, whilst himself single was seized upon by divers, and wounded to death, and so left in the Garden; and to colour it, the House was blown up with Gun-powder, but the Kings body not scorched by any fire, was viewed, and found to be slain by such, as so ordered the secrecy, as not in those daies to be divulged. And this Tale was told by Aston himself, since he came into England with K. Iames.

But that I may unfold the Mistery of these late Murthers, and how the Queen was involved into future suspition, by her hasty Mariages, I shall open Murrays subtilty to be the chief Author and Actor in all.

The slaughter of Rizio (not long ago) gave security,A brief Narration of the late Murders▪ and the Queens hasty Mariages, and the cause▪. in that time of distraction at Court, for Murray boldly to appear before the Commissioners, upon his Indictment of Rebellion, the very next day after the Tumult, and so no Accusation came against him, the Murther being hastned for that purpose, The Queen therefore (through the Kings intercession) receives him; her self in such Distraction, conceived it the safest way to depend on his Brotherly (base) Counsel. The King very sensible of his own Accessary in Rizio's death, and deluded by the Cunning contrivance of Morton and Murray, His youth and easiness of belief giving way, Now repents of that rashness, [Page] implores the Queens clemency, and ingenuously reveals to her the Villany of them all, with resolution to be revenged. And seeing the Bastards power and interest in Affairs of State, equal, if not before, His, advises with others to remove him farther off; Murray hath intelligence of all, and, under shadow of outward duty, thought of nothing more than to ruin him. Of which he acquaints Morton by Message into England, who was conveyed thither upon Rizio's murder.

Some difference between the King and Queen gave the advantage; for by their former villany; they animate him to strain upon the Rights of Soveraignty, to his face, which covertly they opposed to the Queen, and alwaies after he had done a miss, to leave him in the lurch.

And finding the good nature of the King likely to comply into affection with the Queen, and to be reconciled together. To prevent them Murray draws in Bothwel to the Confederacy with these murtherers, who though fled, acted in all Councils. And so Bothwel must be reconciled to Murray, and brought into grace with the Queen.

Contracting under hands and seals, and bound with Oaths, That the King being laid aside, he advanced, the Queen distrusted by the Peers, and so the rule of Regency in Murray.

Upon this Conspiracy, the Bastard conveys himself slyly out of the way, but twelve hours before the King was murthered; and in hurray of affairs returns to Court, and altogether they advise (nay compel) or threaten the Poor Queen to mary Bothwell, who they present, as nobly born, bold and faithful to the State, against all assaults of the English, to prevent the Tumults of the time, and hazard to all. If not, they would purchase their own security, by any otherwaies, how prejudicial soever to her safety, which at last, she was forced to consent unto.

And this Relation was confirmed under the hands of the Earls of Huntley and Arguile, and sent to Q. Eliz. as an undeniable Truth, dated Decem. 1567. which I have seen.

Hereupon the Confederates to acquit Bothwell of the Murder, consent to the general apprehending all such as were suspected; and Bothwel in particular accused by the Earl of Lenox the late Kings Father;The Q [...]aries Bothwel. his Case is pleaded by Morton, and he cleered by Sentence of the Judges. And now Bothwell fitted with honour to a capacity of Mariage, the Confederates gaining many Lords to their design, set their hands to an Instrument for that purpose, and altogether implore the Queen to mary Bothwell, which being done, and their turns served; Then they increase a violent suspition, and vent it abroad of the Queens guilt and consent with Bothwell, and so conspire her deposing, and his distruction.

[Page] Murray most suspected for the great Villany which followed, intreats for leave to travel into France, as weary of these Disquiets, and to colour his knavery commits his whole Estate in trust to the Queen and Bothwell. No sooner gone, but all the Confederates take Arms, publishing, That Bothwell, now Duke of Orkney, intended to surprize the Prince, and captivate the Queen,The Lords take Arms. who get forces and proclame them Rebels, and march to Seaton, and thereabout. The Armies face each other of equal strength. The French Embassadour. mediates for Peace, but to no purpose, and so retires into Edenburgh. The Lords, to add Justice to their Cause, which seemed hor [...]id against their Comfortless and distressed Queen, satisfie the people, that were racked into fears and jealousies how to distinguish these distempers in State. They caused therefore their Ensigns with this device. The late King wounded and dead, the Prince James kneeling by, his hands heaved up towards Heaven, with part of the Psalm; Iudge and revenge my Cause O Lord.

Then out comes Bothwel, and, to avoid the blood of many, offers his own in combate against any. Iames Murray the younger Brother, accepts the Challenge, but he is refused as not equal in honour. The elder Brother, William Laird of Tyllyburn and then Lord Lindsey, desired the Combate. To whom Morton sends the warlike Sword of Earl Archibald (commonly called Bell the Cat) and a Buckler; with these he presents himself between the Armies; and Bothwel Bothwel is denied the Combate, there before. But the Queen forbad them.

In fine, the Lords increasing numbers, being neer home, Edenburgh and the Hamiltons failing the Queens forces, Bothwel takes time to fly (being under-hand advised by Morton, his pretended back-friend) which he did least if taken Prisoner,flie [...], and the Q taken. he might be to unravel all these Treacheries. And now absent, it would increase belief of his and the Queens guilt, in the late Murther of the King. He gone, and [...]he worsted in fight, and without any defence, renders her self into Edenburgh Castle for thatnight; and the next day she is carried Prisoner to a Castle in the Isle of Lochlevin, under the strickt custody of Murrays Mother, the Harlot of Iames 5. insulting over the poor imprisoned; boasting her self the lawful Wife of Iames 5. and her Son to be his lawful Off-spring.

Both [...]ell under hand sends to Balfore, Governor of the Castle for a Silver Cabinet of the Q. which was delivered to the Messenger, but discovered to the Lords, who surprized it, and so the secret Letters opened all their actions.

In this hurray of affairs, the Ministers never idle, break down the Abbies, and all the figures of painting and sculpture in the rich Chapel of Holy-rood.

[Page] At last comes the Hamiltons, with forces in sight of Edenburgh, to recover all, assisted with Arguile, the Earls of Huntley, Caithness, Rothess, Crawford, and 15. Lords, besides others of Ge [...]try.

The other Lords move the general Assembly of Mini [...]ters now (as alwaies in uprores) convened in Iune, to write to the Enemy. And besides those Letters, who more busie to accompany them, and go on the Errand but the Ministery, that mean [...] nothing less than peace. Knox, Dowglas, Roe, and Crage, making such demands for themselves, and more maintenance for the Ministery, That the Cure would be far worser than the Disease.

These Peace-making Ambassadors,Treat a peace but more military minded, return with their message, bad enough to be bid welcom, which they also heighten for their own purpose and join altogether in 8. Articles.

That the former Parliament, 24. of August 1560. and all the Acts for Religion should be made good, and defended as lawful.

That the thirds of Tyths, and larger proportion of Benefices for the Ministers.

For reception of youths into Schools and Universities by probate to be reformed.

Crimes against God to be punished.

The Murther of the King to be prosecuted.

The Prince protected.

The Covenant promoted, Popery suppressed by arms, if need were.

That all successive Kings and Princes at Coronation to be sworn to the Religion.

Queen Elizabeth detesting these unbridled insolencies of Subjects (whom she termed,Q. Eliz expostulates these proceedings by Amba [...]y. Perfidious, Ingrateful, Cruel Rebels) sends Sir Nicholas Throgmorton to expostulate with the Confederates, to restore the Queen from imprisonment, and preserve the Prince into England.

They all assemble (Rebels seldom consent in unanimity) but resolve Not to admit Ambassadours of England, nor Le Croc. and Ville du Roy out of France, to see the Queen. Lethington the cunning Secretary, and his faction; advise for her restoring; he Murther of the King to be answered; the Prince provided for; Bothwel divorced and Religion published.

Others would banish her perpetually into England or France, and those Princes to undertake her Renunciation of Regency to her Son, and certain Lords.

Others are for her Tryal, Condemnation and perpetual custody, and to set up her Son.

[Page] The last, and most villains, would have her deprived of Princely Authority, life and all; and this Kno [...] and other Ministe [...]s thundered out in Pulpits.

Throgmorton disputes her Cause,See Mar [...]ins History. alleging what the Word of God, and all National Lawes do decree, concerning the sacred power of Soveraigns, and earthly duty of Subjects. They reply with Buchanans damnable doctrine, de Iu [...]e regni apud Scot [...]s, Buchanans Books. Murray and he, Contrivers of that Tractate (contrary to the whole Histories of Scotland) to create and depose their Princes. They excuse their non-admission of the English Ambassadours address to Her, with the denying of the French, who seemed to be satisfied; And in conclusion, frame a Declaration in writing, without subscription of any, which they exhibite to Throgmorton in answer of all.

In effect, To no other intent they shut her up, but to sequester her from Bothwels person, whom they pretend she dotes upon, to their r [...]in, and so whilst she cools towards him, her anger may abate from them; with which result and no more, he takes leave, and returns home to England.

They work upon her restraint and miserable Imprisonment; first,Q Mary compelled to resign to her Son. in fair way to resign her Regency; and to incline her, they loosen her to a little freedom, the better to shew her the means to escape away; but increasing threats if she refuse, to arraign her for Incontinency, Murther and Tyranny.

At last they compel her to set her hand unto three Instruments.

To resign her Crown and Royal Dignitie to her Son, scarce 13. moneths old.

Murray to be called home to be Vice-gerent, and if he refuse, then

To these Rectors, Iames Duke of Castle-herault, Gilespich Earl of Arguile, Matthew Earl of Lennox, Iohn Earl of Athole, Iames Earl Morton, Alexander Earl of Glencarn, and Iohn Earl of Mar.

And this she did, as extorted in Prison, which were publisht and proclamed the 19. of Iuly 1567. and 5 daies after the Prince crowned at Sterlin, at thirteen Moneths and eight daies old. The Royal, [...]ow much soever infant (being due to him at his Birth) is furrogated into the Throne of his deceased Ancestors, and Morton and Hume take Oath for the King; Solemnities and Paction, by stipulation and Coronation, do but shew him to the people, not make the Soveraign; and so by these pledges of their faith, knit affections together; for the Ceremonies of his Coronation, due from his birth, though prorogued for a while, did not derogate from his Right, and Regal Authority. And Knox knockt out the Sermon. Murray [Page] is sent for, and returns out of France, and August 20. accepts the Regency.

And because very lately, we mentioned Bothwells challenge for combate. In this void time and place we shall say something concerning Combates.

It was usual in all parts of Christendo [...]e, Digres [...]ion. of Combates & single Duel [...]. where differences could no otherwise be decided, the party was allowed his purgation, By Oath, or otherwise per dquam can [...]entem, ferrum ign [...]um; or duellum vulgare.

The Northern Saxons and Normans brought it amongst us; and so continued whilst we were barbarous, but afterwards condemned often by the See of Rome.

Richard 1. gave leave for Turnaments (for it had been done by licence, extrajudicial) and so we had of them between Counties and Towns, It a quod pax terr [...] nostr a non infringetur.

As also, Vir is militaribus Com. Lincoln.

And afterwards Redman, and his three Friends, Hastiludere, cum Halberton, & tribus sociis suis, Civit. Carliol. And it followed, to be very Ordinary, and too much frequent, till the Pope forbad it through all Christendom.

Detestabiles nundinas, vel ferias, quas vulgo Torniamenta vocant &c. unde mortes hominum, et pericula animarum, s [...]pe conveniunt.

The single Combat was also by legal process in Cases Criminal, in appeals of Treason, out of the Court Marshal, as between Essex and Montford in Henry 2. time. Audley and Chatterton, Rich. 2.

For Murther or Robbery, it is, out of the Kings Bench, as you may read it, Modus faciendi Duellum.

It hath been granted in Cases Civil out of the Marshalls Court about different bearing of Arms, as between Scroop and Citsil; or otherwise, for Title of Land, as in Paramo [...]rs Case.

But the more justifiable hath been used by sundry offers singly for saving blood-shed of many.

Three of Our Kings severally challenged that tryal against the French King.

And by Charles of Arragon, and Peter de Terracone for the Isle of Sicile; and that was allowed of by Pope Martin and his College of Cardinals.

But it was grown too Common, and so afterwards forbidden by Canon, between the Duke of Burgandy, and Duke of Gloucester. Being detestabile genus pugnae, omni divin [...] et [...] mano jure damnatum, et fidelibus interdictum, &c. Et qu [...]modo existimare quisquam potest rectum Iudicium ex Duello, In quo [Page] Inimicus veritatis, Diabolus dominatur?

The Regal Prerogative have sometime restrained that liberty in Martial Exercises, or private quarrels, and punished nonConformists.

Edward I. Publice fecit proclamari & inhiberi ne quis (under loss of Lands and Goods) either torneare, bordeare, aut Iustas facere, aventur as facere, &c. sine licentia Regali speciali.

Nay, none to wear weapons, but the Kings Officers, and some few excepted.

But more often to forbid single Combate, or to determine it, or take it up.

Mawbray and Hereford, both banished.

And when Aneste and Chatterton were ready to fight, Eandem querelam in Manum suam Rex recepit.

That of Fitzthomas, being challenged by Sir William de Vessy, to have defamed the King by Words mentioned in a Schedule. Willielmus audita tenore Schedulae, dementitus est predicto Iohannem, dicendo. Mentitus est tanquam falsus, & pr [...]ditor, & denegavit omnia sibi imposita, & tradidit vadium in Manum Iusticiarii quo illud admisit. Et predict Iohannes advocavit omnia, & de [...]entitus est simul dicto Willielmum.

This was done in Ireland, before the Kings Deputy there, but was adjorned into England before the King, and there adjudged void. Quia non sit citatus in Regno isto placitare in Curia Regis &c. Duellum co [...]ce [...]ere in pla [...]is de quibus cognitio ad curiam Regis non pertinet, contra legem & consuetudinem Regni. Igitur concordatum est quod processus totalitur adnulletur.

Sundry punishments, in several Cases without licence.

The Earl of Surrey fined a thousand Marks, pro quadam transgresione, in insultu facto, in Alanam de la Zouch.

Inquisitio facta est, de omnibus tenementis & catallis Ro. Garvois, quia Insultum fecit & percussit Edwardum (filium Willielmi) or Williamson.

Cromwell was challenged by Seagrave to fight in France; Subjecting thereby ( [...]aith the Record) this Kingdome to that, was stopt in the way and tryed at the Kings bench. Et super hoc dominus Rex valens habere avisamentum Comitum Baronum Magnatum & aliorum de Concilio, &c.

Qui omnes enim dicunt, quod hujusmodi factum meretur poenam amission is vitae.

He was committed to the Tower, and long time unpardoned, His Second was fined two hundred Marks.

Droomlenrig and Hempsfield, antient Noblemen of Scotland upon Suspition of Treason had leave to Combate at Holy-rood-house, armed like antient Palladines fought it out, till the King in presence parted them. Iames 5.

[Page] We read of one in the time of Queen Elizabeth 1571. between Simon Low, and Iohn Ryme, Plaintiffs, against Thoma [...] Paramour Defendant.

It was by Writ of Right for some Lands in the Isle of Tenet, in Com. Canc. and in issue at the Common-pleas.

Paramour had his Champion, one George Thorn, who came to the Bar, flung his Gantlet into the Court, to approve the right of Paramour by single Combate, against any.

One Henry Nayler, a Fencer, takes it up, to answer for the other Defendents.

And in Tuttle Fields, by Westminster, the place appointed; A Tent for the Lord Chief Iustice Dyer of the Common-pleas; and other the Barons of that Court.

The Tilt 60. foot square, railed in with Scaffolds round about for Spectators.

Two Pavillions East and West, from one issues out Thorn apparell'd in red Sandals, upon his black Armour, bare legged, bare head, and bare arms to the Elbo, brought by the hand of Sir Ierome Bowes, who bore a red Baston of an ell long, tipt with horn, his Yeoman with an Ox-hide Target, and the Gantlet bore before them upon a Swords point. To oppose him enters the other, conducted by Sir Henry Cheyney, and both Combatants take Oath, to come fasting. But ready to encounter, the Demandant was missing, and so by default, the Chief Justice resites the Writ and former passages of challenge, and gives Judgement for the Tenant, and leaves the Demandant, and his Pledges, de prosequendo in impercordia Reginae, [...]id. Dyer 30.

Some preparations there were of late in King Iames time, intended between two Scotch men, the Lord Ree, and David Ramsey, in point of Treason; but I know of no other policy, preventing the Tryal, than the doubtful effects to decide the question, by this way to find out truth.

But because the matter hath been long laid aside, the manner thereof will not be amiss to preserve to Memory. The Ceremony was wont to be thus, when it was in Authority and use in the Earl Marshal or High-Constables Court.

The Appellant exhibits his Bill in the High Court, Constable, or Marshal, and failing of his proofs, offers force of his own body, upon the Defendant.

And the Constable (as Vicar General in Arms, (so saies my Author) under the King, hath power to join issue in Battel, and within fourty daies after to appoint time and place. The Constable assigns them arms, being a Gantlet and short Sword, and Long Sword and Dagger; They bring able pledges for appearance at the day, and for good behaviour to each other till then.

[Page] The King names the Field, sixty foot long, and fourty foot broad, firm ground, and even listed about, by Order of the Marshall with Rails, with two Dores, East and West, seven foot high, and kept by the Serjeant at arms.

At the day, the King sits on a Throne mounted, with two seats on each hand for the Constable and Marshall, at the foot of the Ascent; who demand the Pledges, to render themselves to the King, or the Appellant and Defendant, to come in and make Oath.

The Appellant comes on horse-back to the East dore, whom the Constable brings in, and demands his name, and why thus armed; He answers I am A. B. Apellant, and demand Entry, to make proof of my intent against C. D. and to acquit my Pledges. The Constable takes off his Bever, and proclames him to be the Man, opens the door and bids him enter, with his Arms, Victuals, necessary Attendants, and Council, presents him to the King, and sets him on a Seat till the Defendants comming, and request being made, his Pledges are discharged.

Then the King commands the Constable, who commands the Marshal, and he the Lieutenant, and he the Marshal of the Heraulds of the South (if it be this side Trent, being the Marches of King Clarencieux) or otherwise if it be Northward, then the Heraulds of Norris King of Heraulds there) to call the Defendant thus. O yes, C. D. Defendant, Come to your Action, acquite your pledges in the presence of the King, Constable and Marshal, to defend your self against A. B. before three of the Clock after Noon▪ He enters at the West dore in like manner. Their Appearance presently Registred in the Records of the Constables Court, with the order, time, horses, arms and attendants and their manner.

Two Knights are assigned Observant to either Adversary, that they take no charm or spel, or other evil arts, till their Oath be taken, which the King commands the Constable to receive, and what other Protestations their Council shall advise; If not,

The Register saies; you A. B. Appellant; do you know this to be your Bill of Complaint exhibited in Court before the Constable, Swear to the Truth thereof in all points, and that you intend to prove the Contents thereof upon C. D. so ayde you God, and your Patron Saint; and then proclaims, Thou A. B. thy Bill is such in all points, continue thy intent to prove it this day, so God help thee and hallowing.

The Defendant C. D. in like manner, &c.

Then the Appellant takes his second Oath, That he comes appointed with Arms, as was assigned without knife, or other [Page] sharp weapon, no stone or herb of virtue, charm or spell, of power or belief to be assisted, but only by God, and his own Body, and merits of his Cause. So God him help, &c.

The Defendant swears the like.

The Constable bids them both to take each other by the right hand, without violence, gently, and laying the left hand on the Book, He saies, I charge your A. B. that you use all advantages to force the Defendant to render himself into your hands, or to demand a Parley, or with your own hands to kill him, before you part out of the lists, by the light of the Sun, and age of the day assigned, by your Faith, and so God help you.

The like by the Defendant.

Then O Yes.

The Herauld pronounces; In the Kings name, That no person approach within four foot of the List, keep silence, give no sign by Countenance, or otherwise, to advantage either, upon pain of life and member, and loss of Chattel. The King of Arms and Heraulds, are assigned to Minister unto them, to eat or drink of what they brought with them, asking leave of each other. Within the Lists, are admitted a Knight, two Esquires of the Constables Train, and the Lieutenant; also a Knight, and two Esquires of the Marshals, being all in Armour, with Launces unbarbed to part the Combatants at his Majesties pleasure, and these lying flat on the Ground at each side of the List, only the Constables Lieutenant and the Marshals standing.

At the instant of the Kings Direction, the Constable shall say,

Let them go, Let them go; The Appellant advancing upon the Defendant, the Constable stands ready at the Kings pleasure, whilest they fight, viz. to stop, take breath, or otherwise, neither of them ingaged in advantage. They may not whisper; In case of Tr [...]as [...]n the convict shall be disarmed by command of the Constable, one corner of the List to be broken down, his body dragged at a horse-tail to the block of Execution, to be beheaded or hanged on the Gallowes; the Marshall to see Execution.

But in cases of particular interests, he shall not be drag'd, but shall be thrown over the lists, and lose the penalty of the Lands or honor in question.

The vanquished forfeits his Horse and Arms, and all which he brought into the Field with him, unto the Constable, as his Fee.

The Lists, Rails, Seats, &c. to the Marshal.

If the Combate be withdrawn by Command, or perswa [...]ion of the King, and both content (else not) they shall be led [Page] out together by the Constable, and proclamation made thereof, with equal honor to them both.

I have read of such a duel Combate, before the King of France, between Robert le Blanch, and Le [...] le Force, in a case of Treason; Blan [...]h the Appellant grapples le Force, and casts him down; sets his left foot upon the others stomack, holding up his right hand, with his sword by the Hilt, his left hand within a foot of the point, and therewith presently he meant to [...]tab him: but to add more strength, his right foot was somewhat raised from the ground; when instantly the King cryed, Hold, hold, casting his Truncheon, to part them. Wherea [...] le Force, nimbly leapt up, without hurt.

The King, being willing to preserve le Forces life, [...]ot with any good affection (for he supposed him guilty) but for the future examination of Con [...]deracy; Yet he adjudged him [...]anquished, which the Defendant [...]tterly denied, and craved Iudgement of the Con [...]table and Marshal, who had a pre [...]y way to save the Kings honour, and yet to do Justice.

Their sentence therefore was, that le Force should be prostrate to the fatal stroke as before, and the Apellant; with all his former advantage and form of postures, and so they did. When le Fo [...]e with nimble strength li [...]ted up Blanch his right foot, which [...] him down, skipt up [...], and stab'd the other to the Heart.

And forthwith k [...]eeled to the King, told him, That [...] the Assistance of his Patron Saint, the merit of [...] event of th [...] legal Tr [...]al, which he in Hono [...]r would not ref [...]se▪ Yet for more satisfaction to his Majesty, he produced six sufficient witnesses attending in the Field, whom he preserved upon all events, and who cleered him.

However, the King quarrelled with the Constab [...]e and Mar [...]all for declining his Sentence, being Supream; which they humbly denyed. The King being a Party in case of Treason or Felony, cannot be judge, in Lands and Honour he may. This di [...]tinction in those times of Treason, was taken for Reason.

But though these Combatings are rarely now in Example, yet have we taken up Private Duells, the more frequent, sometimes for Right, but in [...]o [...]erably too often, for Honour, as we term it.

Certainly, to use the Sword in a private [...] party, must be a tempting of God, and an [...] Tryal, though we read two of them in Scripture, The challenge of Goliah, which David undertook, The inveterate quarrel of Ioab and Abner in the Interests of their several Masters, David and [...]hbosheth, perfor [...]ed by twelve on either p [...]t, singly; the Challengers had the worst.

[Page] It was commonly imitated by some Gallant in the Head of an Army in France and Holland, or by Parties; but the wise William of Nassa [...], at the siege and loss of Breda, after Briote was so slain, forbid it any more to be done during his life.

In how ill condition is that righteous cause which must be concluded by the Sharp, Force and Fencing? for Saint Bernard saies, That he that conquers Mortaliter pec [...]at, he that is slain aeternaliter perit.

The difference of the evil is, the Challenger hath in it more provocation. It hath been held lawful for a man slandered by an unjust Accuser, to vindicate himself by his own Sword; But, It destroyes Iustice, and Robs God of his Revenge.

Ordinary and Common Challenges (upon what ground soever, being willingly refused, and yet by the Adversary therefore proclaimed base and cowardise) may diminish the offence of acceptation, but concludes him deeply guilty by Gods Laws; The Plea of Conscience ought to suppress the Fancy of any Fighter.

The result is thus, To answer the Challenge, let a Man provide to be daily armed, and if he be set upon, God and his Cause willdefend his Life and Honour. To make a bargain of bloodshed is damnable, and the intention (though both escape) is murther. The Council of Trent, excommunicated all persons whatsoever, none exempt; with loss of Lands, and Christian burial.

But Bothwell (who causeth this Digression) being rid of the Combat, flies, and was pursued to ship-board, but got to sea turned Pyrate about Orknay. Morton at his own charge set out several Ships to take him, Grange was Admiral, and almost surprized him, yet he escaped in a light Pinace (over a crag of the Sea) which grazed on the Sands, but the pursuers stuck fast, and were saved by their Cock-boat; and Bothwell got into Denmark, was there suspected, examined and imprisoned.

Earl Murray, having with much seeming unwillingness, in August, accepted the Protector-ship, which he long thirsted after, Summons a Parliament in December; In which the Resignation, Coronation, Regency, and the Queens Imprisonment, were confirmed; And forthwith (accompanied with the Conspirators) repairs to the Imprisoned Queen at Loch-leven, Mortons Castle; She besought him with tears to protect the young King, to govern with a good conscience, and to spare her Life and Reputation.

Then to colour his Villany, he executes divers for being present at the Late Kings murther. But they protested at the Gallowes, that Murray himself, and Morton, were the Authors, [Page] cleered the Queen, and so did Bothwel Prisoner then in Denmark, and so to his dying day, That she was not privy nor consenting. And fourteen years after, when Morton was executed therefore, he confest, That he moved that the Queen might be made a Party therein, but Bothwel refused.

And thus, the Government not so secure, but factions increased, envy to the Regent, hatred to Religion, and duty to the Queen, now Bothwell was gone; Metallan and Tylliburn, the Hamiltons, Arguile, and Huntley, join together. And Beaton Arch-bishop of Glosgow, now Lieger for the Queen in France, with much secrecy, gave them hopes of Men and Money.

Her cruel Imprisonment forces her escape,The Q. scapes out of prison. by means of George Dowglass, brother to the Governour of the Castle, being oft times trusted with the Keys to let in and out the Queens women. And in the disguise of one of them, she got out, and he, and Tylliburn rowed her over the Lake, and with a dozen horse men, convayed her that night to Hiddery, the next day increasing to five hundred horse, with the Lord Seaton and Hamiltons, they came to Hamilton Castle; and because this Design was her last which she acted in Scotland, we have searched out the truth, from several Relators as followeth.

The Regent Protector now at Glasgow, All parties arm. and pleasing the people with seeming Justice to settle them, was now himself to seek for Protection. Some advised him to Sterlin, where the King was, but Dowglas opposed, protesting to do, as Boyd had done, who was gone to the Queen, with intention (as he perswaded them) to act Husha's part; for he returned a message to Murray, To do them, better service with Her. Morton and Simple advised the same, to stay at Glasgow; for safety consisted in sceleri [...]y, the Queens liberty would soon gain the People, and the more remote, the more affectionate to her; Their own strength was the Towns-men, and as Enemies to Hamilton the Surer their faith to them; Cunningham and Simples, potent Neighbours; Lennox and the Kings party many; and the Earl of Mars forces not far off, to whom Messengers are posted round about. The Lord Hume came with six hundred Horse, and so conceived themselves four thousand strong, sufficient to dare the Enemy.

The Queen was gotten head of six thousand,Murray 4000. the Qu. 6000. and con [...]iding in this advantage of number, she purposed to withdraw her person for safety, into Dunbarton Castle, and so to mannage the war with expedition or lingring, at pleasure.

M [...]rray guessing at their aim, drew out into Glasgow-moor, supposing the Enemy that way, but seeing them on the Southside of the River Clide, crossed the Bridge and Foords, and [Page] got there before them, who being prevented, marched the way of Rothrington which leads to Dunbarton, but the Regent more wary, galloped his Horse-men, and mounted Langside-hill, and his foot hasten after. Two advantages made for Murray, Arguiles sickness, a sudden Apoplexie; the Army halting, he chose the ground. The other was, the Queens too hardy confidence in her own number, which seemed less than they were, ever marching over Hills and Dales without perfect view. These retired to another Hill oppos [...]te to Langside, drew up in Order, Arguile was her Lieutenant, and led the Reer, and with him, the Earls Cassiles, Eglinton and Rothesse, the Lords Seaton, Sommervail, Yeston, Borthick, Sanwhere, Boyd, and Ross. The Va [...] committed to Claud Hamilton of Pasley, Son to the Duke, and Sir Iames Hamilton; indeed, consisting most of Hamiltons; Iames Stuart commanded the Musketeers, 300 men. The Lord Harris the Horse, most of them Borderers and Servants.

The Regent devides in two Battalia's. The Van by Morton, with whom were the Lords Hume and Simple. Himself the Reer, and with him, Mar, Glenc [...]rn, Monteith, the Lords Ruthen, Uchiltry, and Kinkart, the Sons of Lennox, and the Citizens of Glasgow; the Horse commanded by William Dowglas, Alexander Hume, and Ioh. Corinchell.

Upon encounter these Horse retire,both encounter. and fell back to their Foot, indeed the other over-powred them, but these were driven back by a flight of Arrowes, that gawled the Horse.

The two Vans join Battel; The Regents shot secretly placed in Yards, Gardens and Orchards of the Village Langside, neer the Lane, where they shot at pleasure upon Arguiles, who being freed from this hazard, were fresh assaulted by Mortons Pikes and Speares; and other long weapons, which being broken, they join pell mell within Swords length, and neerer, with daggers, stones and fists.

In midst of fight the Regents High-landers fled first, out of the Rancks of his own Companies, or out of the Wings, as other [...] say, the Lord Lindsey at hand, cryed, Let them gang, Ile supply their place, and [...]epping forward, charged Arguile afresh, whose weapons broken before, and overcharged with new impression,The Queen disco [...]ited. turned backs, and fled disorderly. The Regent seeing the victo [...]y, followed the chase, wherein more suffered than in the fight. The High-landers, as yet taking heart, made good their first faults, and slew without mercy, and had done more, but that the Regent sent horse to save the Enemy. Many were taken of Note, Seatons, R [...]sses, Hamiltons, the Sheriffs of Air and Lithburn with others. On the Victors side were slain▪ saies my Author, but one (of Note he means) and for [Page] his Epitaph only, we shall name him unfortunate; yet he was called Iohn Ballony of Preston, Mortons man; and not many hurt.

The poor Queen stood a mile off upon a Hill,T [...] Q [...]. flies [...] [...]nger. saw all lost, and then fled, with the Lord Harris and his Horse, towards England.

Some say the Contention between Iohn Stuart, and Arthur Hamilton, two Captains of the Queens Musketeers, strove for precedency, and she adjudged it to Stuart, for his Name, and once of her Guard; Hamilton took it ill, but nobly challenged the other to the Career, who followed as hastily, and were both seconded as inconsiderately, by the rashness of another Hamilton of Pasley, the Just occasion of the Loss of all.

The Regent convenes the Estates, which the Queens faction opposed, not willing that he should fix himself with greater Friendship, whilest yet their future hopes depended, and therfore caused a rumour of some fresh assistance out of France, for the Queen, under conduct of Mortige of L [...]xemburgh; and in a readiness he was, but staied to assist the French King in his Civil Wars. Arguile therefore comes to Glasgow with 600. horse, and conferred with Hamiltons, but to no effect. Huntley also with 1000. men, was hindred by Ruthen▪ and returned. Yet these procured letters fro [...] the Queen of England, to forbear convening, till she were acquainted with their proceedings, and justness of their cause▪ why they took arms against the Queen her Cosin, of whose wrongs she is sensible, and expects a speedy account. However the Convention continues, and divers are punished. 5000. Horse and 1000. Musketeers are levied for suppressing the incursions of the Nedisdale, Annandale, and Galloway men, seize certain Houses and Holds of severall late Lords in Arms; some oppose, but many are made soon to submit.

The Queen in miserable distress,She lands in England, and writes to Qu. Elizabeth. sends away Beaton unto Queen Elizabeth, with that same Ring, an ezcellent Ada [...]ant, (a token of Friendship) received from her before, to tell her, that she intends to come in person, and crave her aid, which was promised; And so by Sea in a small Barge, she followes Beaton, and lands at Werkington with 16. men, and 4. Watermen, in Cumberland 17. May 1568. writes to Queen Elizabeth, the State of her Affairs in Scotland, most pittifully expressed.

You are not ignorant (most Excellent Sister) how some of my Subjects advanced by me to the height of honour, conspired to oppress and imprison me and my Husband, and yet by your intercession I received them into F [...]vour, [...]hen they were by force of Arms driven to [Page] [...]

[...]

Queen Elizabeth could not but commisserate her case, but was jealous of her Person, and Cause; she was told of her eloq [...]nt tongue to move credence, and her condition considerable with the Ca [...]lique Princes, to draw Parties to protect her, to quicken the Guises, her Cosins, to her former Clame to this Crown, and the Innovation of others. And so to settle her advantages under Protection, whilest she may provide, to convay her self beyond Seas, at her own pleasure. And many more, likely fears, not u [...]eigned, caused Queen Elizabeth for more safety of the Kingdom, to detain her Prisoner [...]o Bolton Ca [...]le, in Tuition of the Lord Scroop▪ and Sir Ralph Sadler.

M [...]rray thus at liberty holds a Parliament, attains many of the Queens [...]ends,Commissioners treat about the Scotish Q [...]een. notwithstanding Queen Elizabeths displeasure, who requires him to come, or send Commissioners to reason with her the misusage of their Queen, otherwise she threatens [Page] to restore and protect her.Anno 1568. Murray obeys, and not knowing who to trust, comes himself on the errand to Berwick, with Morton, Bishop Adams, Lindsey, Liddington, and others his Confidents. And to boot also, comes that Monster of Ingratitude, Buchanan (my Author stiles him so) the greatest Creature of Murray. Queen Elizabeth sends Howard, the fourth Duke of Norfolk, created Barons by Edward the 4. 1461. and by Richard the third, Dukes of Norfolk, 1483. the Earl of Sussex, and Sir Richard Sadler; And [...]or the imprisoned Queen, comes Lesley Bishop of Ross, Levinston, Boyd, and Others.

Lethington, first advised with them, the danger of calling to question so great a Princess of Crimes, before English men their Enemies, and how France would resent it; at which they were all mute. And the Queen of Scots Commissioners (to whom the first place was yielded) before they took Oath, protested, that although their Queen was content her innocence should be shewed, yet being a free Princess, she did not acknowledge her self Subject unto any. The English urged likewise, That they did not admit that protestation in prejudice of that right which the Kings of England, alwaies claimed as Superior of the Kingdom of Scotland. Queen Maries Commissioners declare by writing, how Morton, Mar, and others had levied Arms, misused their Queen, and extorting her Resignation in Prison, that Murray had usurped the Regency, and inforced her to fly for succour into England. Murray, and the Commissioners for the King Infant answer, and relate the manner of the late Kings murther by Bothwel, for which the Noble-men called him in question, whom the Queen protected; that she voluntarily resigned, and the Parliament had confirmed it; and all this was evidenced by Letters. Her Commissio [...]ers reply, and deny all, telling the Truth of these Stories (in such particular as is before herein declared) and therefore crave aid of England, to assist Her.

The English Commissioners require better proofs than by Letters, for Lethington had counterfeited her hand, and was suspected might do [...]o by these.

Murray refuses other proofs than such Letters as he shewed, with much modest regret (forsooth) To be put to it to accuse his Sister at all, unless the Queen of England would undertake, to protect the King, and to relinquish the Queen. But the English told them all, though there appeared not, as yet, sufficient for the present to be dilated upon, yet Murray is required to leave some of his Company here, to answer Exceptions which their Queens Ambassadors should propose hereafter, and so they departed. Much pleasing to the Duke of Norfolk, so to break off, having alwaies favoured Q. Maries Cause, and from this time had a Mind to mary her.

[Page] But Murray to make things more safe, po [...]s to the Queen of England, and to her produces Articles and other [...], and [...] Book, called the D [...]tection, which had [...] credit with her,Regent po [...]ts to Q [...]. E [...]iz. though [...]illing she was that reproach [...]ight l [...]dge [...]pon the Queen of Scots. Indeed many Engli [...]h Lords inclined to [...] her [...], at which Queen Eli [...]beth swore, She [...] not [...] so long as Norfol [...] lives, of whom henc [...]forward she was j [...]alous. Duke Hamilton was returned out of Fr [...]ce, whither he had fled, and besought that Murray might relinquish the Re [...] to him, being (as he [...]) his due, as next heir to the Crown, [...] the Queen found his pulse beat too hig [...], and least he should proceed in that Claim, she commanded him not to depart without her Licence.

The Regent and his Company having leave to depart in Fe [...], Reg [...]nt [...]. the Duke Hamilton made means to follow, and being Lieutenant for his Queen, and got home, sends forth his Proclamations, and shewe [...] his Authority, which none obeys; For Murray was comming to nip the Bird in the Head, and comes to Glasgo [...] with an Army, to whom Ha [...]ton [...]; and prefixes a day for Hamilton (with pledges) to subs [...]ribe to his power at Edenb [...]rgh, and there likewise he [...] it off, till his Queen sends her consent. Hereupon he and Herris are committed. [...] and Huntley were the next to be reduced; Both of them had been bu [...]ie in the Regents absence, but were now suppre [...]e [...], and so all [...] to Perth, to hold a Convention of [...]tates.

Thither came two Packets from both Queens. Elizabeth made three Propositions.

1. That the Kings Mother might be restored to her [...] and [...].

2. That her Name might be joined with her Sons, in all writs, and the Government continue in the R [...]g [...].

3. And if none of thes [...], then that [...], with all [...] and hon [...], without pre [...]di [...] [...] the King.

This last was accepted, the other rejected.

[...]

[...]

These Queens had several Designs in their Demands, Elizabeth was wi [...]ng to be rid of the other, rather than she should [Page] mary with Norfolk; for she feared her great Friends here, and beyond Seas.

And Mary was therefore more earnest to satisfy the Duke, who meant not to adventure the Treaty upon uncertainties; And Murray for these respects kept Bothwels title in being; for from England he was assured by his Friends there, that Norfolks plot, and Queen Maries, was so cunningly conveyed, that no wit nor power was able to countermine. Yet he remained stedfast, and sent one of his Domestiques to Queen Elizabeth, with Queen Maries Petition, and their answer; but She not satisfied with such an Ordinary Messenger, the Abbat Pitcarn was sent Express, from the Convention at Sterlin, held only for that purpose.

About the same time of his last arrival at London, the Duke of Norfolk was committed to the Tower, The Duke of Norfolk committed, and his story which Murray plotted. October 11. and the Conspiracy discovered, which was thus.

Murray, with much cunning, before his late departure out of England, proposed some hopes to Norfolk of mariage with the Queen of Scots, and secretly induced a belief of her present restoring, and spread these Rumours to prejudice her, and to increase jealousies, with many other suspitious, which surrounded Queen Elizabeth, Of Rebellions at home, and Plots abroad by the Papists. And as many more Tales that Q. Elizabeth, and Murray, had compacted against the young King. To wipe off these, an Apology was printed in Queen Elizabeths defence. In truth, she was much perplexed with fears, out of Emulation of the other. Yet with some compassion for her Imprisonment; and in both these distempers, there wanted not Instruments to rub the wound. Mary often solicited Queen Elizabeth with humble, yet Princely, Letters, with such compassionate Eloquence, that though the Queen had a Wolf by the Ears, yet with tears, had oft resolution to return her Home, and dealt with Murray by Messengers herein, but he was settled in malice, and would not incline.

Then was rumoured the Mariage of the Duke of Norfolk with Queen Mary, as advantagious to both Realms and security of the Kings person, who must be brought also into England, and so under Queen Elizabeths power, and she so to be secured of fears. And that for finishing so good a work, the Dukes Daughter should be contracted to the King. And these Designs, many the chiefest Earls in England had contrived. Murray himself at his being here, intimated no less to the Duke, for that, She having maried her self to a Boy, then to a rash young Man, and last to a Mad-brain, might now recover her honor to wed him, a Man of discretion. Nay more, secretly, by Melvin, offered to the Queen of Scots, his Service to effect it. And the [Page] Secretary Throgmorton, with the chiefest Lords, Arundel, Northumberland, Westmerland, Sussex, Pembroke and Southampton, and Leicester also (his Rival) were all of the Plot, and he broke it very seriously to Norfolk.

Upon which the Duke, not faint-hearted, courted the Queen by Letters, and all consenting, Articles were propounded.

1. For security of Queen Elizabeths person and issue.

2. To Covenant a League between both Kingdomes.

3. To establish Protestant Religion.

4. To receive into favour, with pardon, all the Scots.

5. To Revoke her assignation of the Kingdom of England, and to mary Norfolk.

They promise to procure Queen Elizabeths consent, and the other to be restored, to all which she, in Prison, easily yielded, and who could blame her in the case she was? But ere they had so done, Queen Elizabeth had suspition, and therefore it was more than time to break it themselves, so from one to the other it was neglected, till Leicester did it.

She asked the Duke thereof, and charged him to decline it, least he hop't headless, and it was good warning, sufficient to him to look ere he leap't, and so he stole away in time of Progress back to London.

Caecil wisely took care of the State, and learned so much of the Matter, that the Duke began to fear; restless in any place, withdrew to Norfolk, where some Commotion was purposely set on foot, and he suspected. To prevent the worst, he returns back towards the Court, but at Saint Albans was taken to guard, and secured, for by this time Treacherous Murray had out of Scotland discovered what he knew, and upon which the Duke was sent to the Tower, Bishop Ross, and others committed, and Pembroke examined, not well remembring what he had said, or should say: for he could not read a word. Northumberland and Westmerland take Arms, but fearing greater opposition fled into the North.

But ere all this was known in Scotland, Secretary Metallan increased faction for Queen Mary, and sided with Hume, and Grange Captain of Edenburgh Castle; and before it was ripe, he is sent for to Sterlin, accompanied with the Earl Athole, to intercede if need were; and need there was, for he is accused as Accessary to the late Kings murther, and committed close Prisoner. Sir Iames Balfore in the same Condition, were both of them sentenced by the Convention of States (for by them Murray did all his work as in cases of Treason) but with much ado, Balfore had pardon, and Metallan reprived to Edenburgh Castle; and Murray posted up and down to reduce the Norfolk faction, and the Queens, who were increased; and returns to the Life [Page]Tryal of Metallan at Edenburgh,Anno 1569. where finding his Party too strong, being of Hamilton, Huntley, Arguile, and others, he warily adjourned the arraignment; for, though by this time News came of the Dukes Commitment in England, yet his Faction increased very powerful, and his Plot went on in Scotland.

The Earls of Northumberland and Westmerland, The Earls of Northumb. & Westmerland fly to Scod. in favour of the Queen of Scots, and right Rebels to Religion, with 6000. Foot, and 2000. Horse, mastered Durham, burnt the Bible, and Service Books, heard Mass in Darnton, and took Bernard Castle, but being pursued by the Earl of Warwick with twelve thousand men, and Sussex with another army of seven thousand, they were forced to fly into Scotland in December, and lurked among the Borderes and Robbers, until Morton betrayed Northumberland to the Regent, who sent him prisoner to Lochleven, being an Enemy to all sides but the Queen of Scots.

This service Queen Elizabeth took well, and gave audience to Pitcarn his Ambassadour, to whom she promised, to desist the restoring of Queen Mary, and assured all friendship to the Regent when he should crave her aid. The effect was soon published in Scotland, to the fear, and lessening of Maries party, and they not able to Master his Power, took the bold way of base treachery, be one Iames Hamilton (whose life Murray had saved) and he undertakes to kill him. His opportunity he takes at Lithgow in secret, where he placed himself in a House as the Regent passed by, shot him with an Harquebuss out at a Window, the bullet passed thorow his Body, and killed the Horse under George Dowglass 21. Ianuary 1569.Murray the Regent slain. He dyed that night. Hamilton had his horse ready, and scaped beyond Seas, where he dyed not long after.

Murray was base Son to King Iames the fift, and took up Religion for the gain of the Spoil of Papists. He was a Man full of Ambition, injurious, and ungrateful to the Queen, and likely not to have spared her Son, when time had wrought him power to effect it.

He was much assisted in his Regency by Mortons perpetual concurrency, and may be coupled as Parmenio and Alexander; Nihil Murray absque Morton, Multa Morton absque Murray.

It comes to be the question, whether for Interest or Friendship Morton was so fixt; certainly Murray aimed at all, the Queen in durance, and his labour so to continue her, or rather to have her in his Custody, and so to have ordered her and her Son, for his own purpose.

To ballance him, the Queens faction were, Hamiltons, Arguile, Athole, Huntley, and almost all the petty Princes (as the [Page] Scots call themselves) Earls of Crawfoord, Rothess, Eglinton, Cassiles, the Lords Harris, Maxwells, Iohnston, Seaton, Boyd, Grey, Mettallan the Secretary and Politicquer, and Grange the active Captain of the Castle of Edenburgh, and most of the strong Castles and Forts; the French did assist them, and Spain favored them, and so did all Catholiques. In England the faction of Norfolk, and Papists, and all Male-contents, or Treacheries took up Queen Maries cause to mutiny. She had her Rents in France duly paid, and her Jewels, and much under-hand support to countenance her Am [...]assadours abroad, and private Emissaries, and a working brain for her own ends. All the English banished Lords, Dacres, Westmerland, and all the Popish at home.

The other party, which we call the Kings (but indeed they were of all sides partial to their own Iuterests, Pride and Ambition, and took up factions accordingly) were Morton, Mar, Lenox, Glencarn, Lindsey, and Glams, Simple, Methvain, Ruthen; no Castles but Sterlin and Tantallon, and the Commons, and from England Queen Elizabeth knew well how to feed them on all sides with a bit and a bob; for in this time she had sent three several Armys against the Borderers under that colour, which most horridly burnt all in their way, with incredible mischief to that miserable Nation.

The Murther of Murray was lookt upon as more publique than to be acted by one, and a Resolution of his Friends to question it by force or Justice. In the mean time the Estates appoint a day, and this put off was counselled by Metallan, who was got out of Prison in this hurrey of affairs, and suspected the Plotter of Murrays death.

The Lords meet and stand upon their guard; but agree in nothing for the common safety; the Queens Party elect three Lieutenants, Arran, Arguile, and Huntley, and appoint a Parliament in August after.

In this while Queen Elizabeth sends Sir William Drury with three hundred Horse, and a thousand foot into Scotland, to pursue her Rebells as was pretended, but sided with Morton, and did some mischief to the Queens Faction, and so returned Home.

The 13. of I [...]ly in a Convention at Sterlin, Lenox the Kings Grandfather is chosen Regent, Lenox chosen Regent, be [...]t [...]s himself. and Hamilton refused, Queen Elizabeth, declining her direction in that Election, but well pleased, since she had his wife in her hands. He marches with Forces of 5000. men to Linlithgow, and prevents the Lords Meeting of their Parliament in Augnst after, and so with increase of men makes up eight thousand, Ranges the Country, and spoils his Adversaries, with Marshal law hangs them up by Scores, and returns to Sterlin.

[Page] The King of Spain, Anno 1570. not with much affection to the Cause, but for his own interest, and malice to Queen Elizabeth, secretly sends money and ammunition to Huntley in the North. The Duke of Castle-herault and Arguile send Seaton to Duke D' Alva in Flanders for aid, and to restore the Captive Queen; He promised fair; but did nothing, having much to do for his Master against Holland.

Nay the Pope fell to work with his Bulls, excommunicates Queen Elizabeth, and absolves her Subjects, and some fears of a Rebellion in Norfolk, to deliver the Duke, exceedingly beloved and pit [...]yed. And therefore upon his humble petition and penitency, abjuring the Mariage, was released the Tower, and restrained only to his own House, but with a Keeper, Sir Henry Nevel, whether in favour, or to beget in him more Guilt; for Henry the Eight's Statute of Treason to mary the Blood Royall without leave, was repealed by Queen Elizabeth, and his Misdemeanours were not yet come up to Felony.

But she, in much trouble, and fear of Forein Forces, and Domestique Insurrections, dayly put in practice in Darby-shire, Sent Caecil and Mildmay with 16. Articles to Queen Mary at Chatsworth in Darby-shire, not unreasonable, unless those concerning the Scots interest with France, of antient League and Security; which therefore she wittily argued, as not in her power without their consent. For her Dowry was from thence; the Scots Guard of Gens D' arms in France of one hundred Horse, and 124. Archers; the interest of some Clergy in pension; and immunities from their Scots Merchants and Students in France; All which (except the English would recompence) she could not remove their Amity; and some Castles also required, in Scotland, which she could not render, and so these Overtures were quite declined.

The Scots Incendiaries at home, fearing that Queen Elizabeths good Inclination, or other Forein assistance, should release their imprisoned Queen, and so revenge would follow; Morton, with others from Scotland, are sent to prevent it, and present a tedious insolent memorial, the gall of the pen came from Knox and his Kirkmen, with authorities of ipse dixit Calvin, too hateful for president to others, in justification of themselves, and against Royalty, which the Queen read and disdained as a Libel. Yet she ordered Commissioners to treat with Queen Maries Commissioners and them, concerning her Release, but they excused themselves by a frivolous restraint of their Authority therein. But certainly, They that came impowred to deprive, had powers to restore; And indeed what needed Authoritie from others at home, when wicked facts had made all equals. Facinus quos inquinat aequat; and so all return home.

[Page] Herein, nothing to the poor captivated Queens Release; her Friends in Scotland worsted in all their actions of Arms or Treaties; strong places surprized; and many executed for being but suspected of her Party; Arch-Bishop Hamilton (Brother to the Duke Castle-herault) hanged as privy to the late Kings Murther, without any Arraignment or Tryal; and she here deprived of all her Friends and Domestiques but ten persons.

She then bethinks her self of the last remedy; sends secretly to the Duke of Norfolk, renues her affection, and conjures his Assistance; with other Letters to the Pope and King of Spain, by Higford the Dukes Secretary, a fiery Fellow (even such another Creature as might be a President afterwards unto Cuff Secretary to his unfortunate Master the Earl of Essex,) who, besides his Errand, insinuates to the Duke, fair hopes of Confederacy and assistance from all the Catholique Princes, and the Pope also. And with this Plot of impossibilities (not without suspition of Treachery to his Master, for before these letters were burnt, he secretly stole the Minutes of all their private missions, and lodged them purposely where they soon came to light) The poor Duke (easy enough to be cosened, but not into the villany of Treason) detested and disliked his Motions. And yet afterwards, but for meddling with money in behalf of that Queen, to be sent to her Friends, (which was misconstrued perhaps in the worst sence) for Support of Enemies against Queen Elizabeth, he fell into this mischief and Treason, which Higford confessed, and discovered all the former Matters to boot.

The Duke not dreaming what was acknowledged, denyed all at his Examination, and so was again committed to the Tower, and presently after him, the Earls Arundel and Southampton, the Lords Lumley and Cobham, with others his Friends, but these scaped with life, and in hope of pardon, told all they knew, and more than truth. And thus was he betrayed, not knowing whom to trust, where he lodged till he lost his head, the next year after.

Bishop Ross Queen Maries Lieger Ambassadour of long time ago,Bishop Ross Ambassadour examined. and so now here, A witty and well-experienced Man he was in his Craft, and up to the ears in all Designs and Plots for her Relief and Advantage, through his Letters intercepted, and all their confessions produced, was sent for and examined; the most guilty Crimes of them all, either the Contriver, or deeply Acce [...]ary; some he confessed; those which concerned others, he constantly concealed, and cunningly answered unto all. There being sufficient evidence to make him guilty, he stood upon his Privilege, which he wittily defended; and [Page] [...] [Page] yet were qualified from any punishment.

The Tribunes of the People in Rome, were free from question in their Annual Office.

Particular Mischief, submits to the conveniency of the Publique.

Leges de Jure Gentium inductum est ut eorum Corpora salva sint, propter necessitatem Legationis, ac [...]ne confundant jura comercii inter Principes.

Let us come to latter Customes of our own kind.

Henry 2. Restrained the Popes Legat, until he swore not to act in prejudicium Regis vel Regni.

Henry the third did so likewise to another of the Popes Legates.

Another fled of himself, timens pelli sui.

Edw. 1. Complained to the Pope, and had satisfaction, ere his Legate was released.

Henry 8. Restrained the Ambassadour of Charls 5. one Lewis de Prat, for but falsely traducing Cardinal Wolsey to his Master.

Charles the ninth of France did so to Sir Nicholas Throgmorton, for Counselling the Prince of Conde, against the King.

In Spain, was Doctor Man, Ambassadour from England, imprisoned for using his own Religion, and yet Gusman de Sylva, at that instant here in England had Mass with freedom. But then the Inquisition mastered that State 1567.

We restrained Don Guerman de Aspes in London for Libelling this State to the Duke D'Alva, 1568.

The French Ambassadour Alpin, and Maluset were so used also.

The Venetian Ambassadour at Madrid protected an Offendor that came into his House (the usual Sanctuary) who by force was taken out from thence, and that State justified that Action, condemning the Ambassadors Servants that opposed; Some to death, and some to the Gallies, but were only all banished. The King of Spain sends the whole Process to Venice, and by His Ambassadour Lieger there, one Mendoza▪ declares publickly to all the World, That in case his Minis [...]ers should so offend, He remits them to punishment where they resi [...]e.

And another Mendoza for abusing our Ministers of Sta [...]e here, was first restrained, and after banished, 1586.

See Another hereafter in this Kings Reign, the Marquess Inojosa, for scand [...]lizing the Prince, and Duke of Buckingham, 1624.

And our Bookmen say, that a Forein King, though admitted here by safe Conduct (for without Licence he cannot come) may be impleaded for Debt or Trespass, and condemned for Treason; for i [...] is a [Page] general Law of Nations▪ That in what place an offence is committed, according to the Law of that place, they shall be judged, without regard of any Privilege. For a King out of his proper Kingdom hath [...] merum Imperium, but only retains Honoris Titulos & Dignitatis; and per omnia distringitur etiam quoad personam.

And the same assuredly is of their Ambassadours, N [...] occasio daretur delinquendi: He hath protection of His p [...]rson; Like as a Sanctuary will save a Mans life from Manslaughter, but not when Manslaughter is committed within the Sanctuary, for then he does willfully wave the benefit. Indeed their Persons (as their Masters) are sacred from violation of private men, but not from punishment of offences against the publike State.

See Cook 7. part. &c.

Here are Presidents; but it hath been more nicely disputed, let others conclude.

This year gave end of daies to that antient Noble Lord William Pawlet, Pawlet Lord Treasurer, his childrens children 103. Marquess of Winchester, and Lord Treasurer of England twenty years, having lived 97. years, whilst he saw the Children of his Childrens Children, to the number of one hundred and three persons.

[...]

[...]

[...] [Page] bishop in spite of Adamson a Minister, preaching against that Order, which he divided in three sorts, 1. The Lords Bishop (to wit Christ) and such was every Pastor. 2. My Lord Bishop, such who sit and vote in Parliament, exercising Iurisdiction over his Brethren. 3. The third sort was my Lords Bishop, one whom some Lord in Co [...]substitutes hi [...] Receiver, without means or Power Episcopal, whom he called a Tulchan Bishop, because the Tulchan which is a Calves skin stuffed with straw, is set up to make the Cow give down her Milk▪ Mr. Knox (he preached more and pronounced Anathema dant [...], anathema accipienti.

Whilest the Estates were busie at Parliament, Parliament surprized. far off from Edenburgh, and thereby secure, an attempt was made upon them, There was one George Bell in Edenburgh, Ensign to a Foot Company, born in Sterlin, well acquainted with each Corner there, and each Lords Lodgings, possibly to be surprized in their careless watch; He marches from Edenburgh with two hundred Horse, and three hundred foot, Earl Huntley, and others, their Leaders thither, and undiscovered, till they had planted the Market place, and set Guards in the Lanes, entered the Lords Lodgings, and surprize them Prisoners, the Regent, Glencarn, and others. Morton only defends himself with his Servants, and the Enemy in hast, set the House on fire, some of his Men slain he yielded to Balclough, who had married his Neece Margaret Dowglas. The Souldiers, careless, fall to plunder the Houses, whilst Mar and his men in the Castle, force the Market place, but in vain. Then he sends sixteen pieces of Brass, called Founds to his own new House a building, and so not reguarded for plundering, got up to the upper Rooms, and shot out at the Windows into the very street, when the Enemy was thickest; who thus amazed, fled without order, and Mar pursues them, with such other, that crept out of their Hidings, and make a sufficient number to be again Masters of their own, both Prisoners and Spoil, Morton and Glencarn, seizing their Keepers▪ the Regent was taken by David Spency, who to save him at [...] from the Souldier,Lenox [...] R [...] gent slain. S [...]pt. 6 1571. lost his own life, and His also. So both sides were vanguished, and both victorious in a few hours, Of such advantage is diligence and expedition, and mischievous is negligenc [...] and security. Multum in utramque partem fortuna potest, as Caesar saies.

The Kings Grandfather Lenox thus dead, and presently buried, Ma [...] elected Reg [...]n, Sep [...] there were three listed for Election, Arguile, Mar and Morton, the first but lately reconciled to the Kings part, the last was best beloved, but Mar had the charge of the Kings person, and so caried the vote to be Regent, Sept. 1571. Much he could not do in his small time of Government, he convend the Country, and sate down against Edenburgh, but wanting Artillery, returns [Page] to Li [...]th, parts the Kingdom [...]to quarters, and sends for their Divisions by turns;Anno 1572. Those in Edenburgh issue o [...]t, and set fire on Dalkieth with Spoil and Pillage, return, but were so close beset, that wanting victual, they p [...]ocure the Ambassadors from France and England to mediate the reconcileme [...]t.

And for a Prea [...]ble to future peace, the Ambass [...]ours obtain a Truce in Iuly, beginning the first of August 1572. until Ianuary following. The Conditions were, that Edenburgh should be free, for all the Kings Subjects; which was to say, that the Enemy, could keep it no longer. And before the end of this Truce, Mar takes leave of this life, in a desperate Feavour at Sterlin, October 1572. and without dispute Morton was elected to succeed him.

And now let us to return to England, where in November 1572. appeared a blazing star, alwaies portending ill fate to great persons, It was placed Northwards in the Constellation of Cassiopeia, making a Geometrical figure (with three chief fixed Stars) lozing-wise, called Rombus. It appeared bigger than Iupiter, and less than Venus. It never changed place, but carried about by motion of the Heavens, as other fixed Stars, and so continued six moneths. The Sphere far above the Moon, where no other Comet was ever seen, or indeed Natural can appear, so strange to Astronomers, as since the Creation was never the like, and had onely reference to Caelestial, or rather super-C [...]lestial consideration.

And therefore forthwith followed in Ianuary that Thomas Howard Duke of Norfolk, Duke of N [...]rfolk arraig [...]d was arraigned in Westminster Hall, before Talbot Earl of Shrewsbury, High Steward, and 25. Earls and Barons. His Commission being read, Garter King of Arms delivers to him the White Rod, which he receives and delivers to a Serjeant at Arms, standing by, and holds it up all the time. The Duke was brought in between two Knights, and the Ax held besides him, by the Executioner, with the edge from the Duke (but after sentence it was immediately turned to him.) His Tryal lasted till night; and all the matters before remembred were urged against him, together with his own Letters, as also those of the Queen of Scots and Bishop Rosses, besides evidence by Witnesses, whereof he was condemned, as in Case of High Treason, and after 4 moneths delay, he was executed upon the Tower-Hill, where he acknowledged and confessed all.

Abo [...]t ten daies after,Commissioners expostul [...]te criminally with the Q. of Scot [...]. Commissioners were sent to the Q. of Scots, to expostulate criminally with her.

1. For usurping the Title and Arms of England, and had not released them, as was agreed in the Treaty of Edenburgh.

2. For the practice of Mariage with the Duke of Norfolk.

3. As also all the beforementioned Contrivements, particularly urged.

[Page] To all she wisely answered, and to the most of them N [...]gative.

A League being concluded, between England [...] France, the Ambassadour moved for favour to the Queen, who was answered, that she deserved none; for that she had secret confederacy with the King of Spain, by the Lord Sea [...]on, which being discovered and true, the French were silent.

The Estates of Scotland, took some time to present their Desires to Queen Elizabeth, how fit Morton was for the Regency; which [...]he took well, though she knew they intended the power upon him, for so she had the honour, to say, She made him▪ and with who [...], in truth, she alwaies kept the most narrow correspondency, trusting to his Judgement and diligence, to do much for the King, with whom he alwaies sided.

The King was committed to the custody of Alexander Erskin (for Erskin the then Earl of Mar was under age, whose peculiar right it was to challenge that trust) and Buchanan designed his Tutor, a man of some fame by the Scale of learning, whom Time and Ambition wrought afterwards a dangerous Incendiary to the King and State.

From this Parliament now sitting, were the Papists utterly excluded, and laws for advance of Religion enacted, to the wonder of all, how soon the Papists (frighted into fears of loosing their Estates) very forwardly subscribed to the Reformed, which so heightened the Kirk into swelling Pride against Bishops also, that their violence afterwards could never be brought to Moderation. Though the Protector conceaved the Prelatical function, to be no less necessary in State, then warrantable in Reformation. And so he regulated them (as the Bishops of England) Votes in Parliament, but abridged their Authority over others. And thus stood the power of Synods, interposing the moderate Prelates, who yielded much in Peace to the publick Ministery, and belike, conceiving that time and experience might mollifie them to a more convenient Constitution.

The faction for Papists was of the French and Queen of Scot, whose countenance were the Hamiltons, Arguile, Huntley, and Hume, ancient Barons, Grudging at the Vice-Roy's Government, sought to undermine his Establishment; and he at home, by pleasing the people gained the City and Kirkmen.

For now was Knox become the Temple incendiary imitating the Vandalls devastatious, ruinates the Monuments of Ancestors Piety, Church-bells and Bed coverings scape not him nor any other such like sacrilegious ravings; himself accknowledged that Mary had and did then blame him for his too great rigor and severity, that in his heart he never hated the persons against whom [...]e thundred Gods Iudgments, hating their Sins, and forbore none[Page]of what ever condition; doing it in Gods fear thus much he said for him selfe, and being the words of a dying man, I say them over for Christian Charity, and Honour to his parts; whose Character needs no more than the former History faithfully set down, wherein it appears, a Beacon he had been, apted to fire the Kingdome. but his blaze was this year extinguished and he died of good age 67. years; whether his History of the Church were his own, is suspected of some, his name supposed to gain credit to the work which in many parts seems ridiculous. Morton in some eminencie and lustre, fell into an obloquie of an infamous Act, upon the person of Thomas Percey Earl of Northumberland. whose desperate case (together with Westmerland forced them from home (as you have heard) to seek for succour in Scotland, Morton basely [...]ells the E. of Northum. after some time, Westmerland got into Flanders▪ but Northumberland wandred in the woods of Hatles for habitation, and was (heretofore) by his Comrades betrayed to Morton, and delivered up by him to the late Regent Murray; whose Authority preserved him by the Law of Nations, from Queen Elizabeths fury, but now Morton powerfull by preferment and plentifull in Estate whom honour, had made so, aud some meritt, valuable▪ yet I know not with what errour of honesty basely sould him for a piece of Money to Hunsdon, Governour of Berwick and so became headless by the fatall Ax at York. The fruit of this ungratious Act,unto execution fell upon the Protector himself in the Ultimum of his life, by the like fall of the Ax, that often cures great men of these wicked maladies 1581

The Kingdome of Scotland, Scotland in faction of the King and Qu. heretofore in severall fewds now was devided into two unnaturall factions of Son and Mother, the King and captivate Queen, in which dissention the Nobility side into severals. England and France interpose accord, but with sinister respects, for the French Ambassadour had his Item, and meant nothing less. Queen Elizabeth to countermine him, sent Killegrew to join with the King and Religion; yet a Treaty was perswaded. In the interim, Kirkaldy Lord of Grange, and Governour of Edenburgh Castle,Edenburgh besi [...]ged. being on a high Rock, inaccessable, fortified by a Fe [...] and Lake on one side, and a Moss, which surrounds it; and to his faction (being the chief Baron) the French, gave hope of assistance; To whom he sends over his Brother Iames Kircaldy for men and money, with which returning, he lands at the Castle Blackness, the Governour thereof Andrew Stuart, though before his Confident was of late bribed to seaze him into fetters, whilest he carried the news, and 1000. French Crowns of Kirkaldies to the Regent.

In his absence on this treacherous errand, Kircaldy corrupts his Keepers▪ and they the Souldiers, and so of a Prisoner he [Page] hath the Keys and custody of the Castle.Anno 1573. In two daies returned Stuart, and no sooner entered, but is secured into Irons; which he studies to revenge, and conceived, that the best way might be the same, and so the less suspected, to catch his Adversary in the same Gyn, which so lately caught him. With feigned tears, and a cunning tale, he melts the hardned Gaolers into compassion, and they the Guard, with helps of some bribings, some Crowns secretly sowed up in his quilted Wastco [...]e. And, as if better than they could design it, Kircaldy would needs accompany his Wife in a visit forth of the Castle, when as hastily he was shut out, and the late Governour set at liberty commands all again.

During which time the Treaty came on,Regent relieved out of England, but ended without effect, and Grange begins his fury on the City, as fuel to his fire. Either part implore assistance. The Protector, from England, and soon was sent to him by Land and Sea, nine Canons, six demi-Canons, six Sakers, 9. Culverins, with all necessaries, and 1500. men under Command of the Marshal of Berwick, Sir William Drury, who joined with 500. hired Scots, and so furiously assaulted the Castle, that from the twenty fifth of April, in thirty three dayes it was rendred to the Mercy of the Queen of England, who referred it wholly to the Regent, and the Lord Grange, and wins the Castl [...]. and his Brother Kirkaldy executed by the Hangman Metallan had poisoned himself some daies before, to avoid the Regents severity, which he deserved.

He was a man adorned with all natural parts, wise and prudent, indefatigably busie, but Fortune (the Mistress of humane Counsels) delighted to make him, like her self, inconstant. Hume, Petarrow, and Melvin kept in prison, and so was the renowned Countess of Arguile, who was the Daughter of an Harlot. Liddington was found there also, and sent away Prisoner to Lieth; who, because he had been a notable Actor all his life, and being a pen-man, not by Law of Arms to dy by the Sword, we may guess how he came to his end, by poison, the fate of cunning politiques, who if they scape the Ax or Halter, are too wife to be le [...]t long-lived for worser effects.

This Success set Morton aflote, which he husbands so ill, as made him (though he governed all) submit to base lusts, Pride and Covetousness; to supply which he abused his Trust, to the prejudice of the People, in each particular. His exactions were ingeniously observed by [...] Fool Bovy, that often rubb'd his Masters Shins with his Giers, some importunate Beggars craved alms of the Regent, the Fool bid him hang them, and why so cruel, said he? Because of your custom and cunning to make an hundred rich men beggars when you please.

He coined for the King some pieces of Gold,His Coyn. with the Kings [Page] picture, and circumscribed, In utramque paratus.

And contraversed the Royal Arms of Scotland, with this inscription,

Parcere subjectis, & debellare superbos.

The silver pieces bore two swords, with Trajans Motto,

Pro me, si merior, si non in me.

He was the first Coiner of the Copper in that Kingdom, called Hard-heads, and after abased them from 3 half pence to a penny, as also the black piece, and abased them also▪ which never till then were corrupted. And by their neighbour the Netherlands coined also, and exchanged for good Sterling, which in after times made the Dutch cunning in that trade of cosening all Kingdoms; and thus having reduced the Kings Coffers to a small purse, he sets upon the Clergy.

In the former Story of the Kirk in Queen Maries time,Cofins the Kirk. all the Revenues being then in the Papists, she settled a part of the third, with which she was to relieve the Ministers, as a Donative; and indeed the disorderly Collection (before mentioned) was then complained of by those parties, and therefore now by remonstrance, Morton (siding with them) orders a Supplement to inculpable (or well-affected) Ministers annually, and so takes into the Kings Treasury all the Thirds, to which the Kirk subscribe irrevocable, and thereby he commits the cure of 3. or 4. Parishes to one, and so out of the Relique of the third, there must needs arise much gain.

The Church therefore in time, open their own eyes, to see this fraud, and complain to the Council, but receiving delayes, their implacable hatred to Morton, increaseth with their suffering; and in this nick of time (Knox being dead) returns Andrew Melvin, Melvin a Geneve Discipl [...] narian, a Man of the Kirks own making, for being drencht in the Genevian discipline, he reforms this Church according to a hairs breadth, and subjects them all to his vehement spleen, against the very Office of Episcopacy; and thus broached, it drowned withall both Laicks and Church-men, out of the easie apprehension of both their advantages, and the Dispute was preached by their State-meddling Sermons, which begat undominable Presbyterian licentious Tumults ever after.

The Arch-Bishops of Saint Andrews and Glasgow oppose Melvins Discipline in most acurate Sermons and Declarations.his Rantings.

The difference grew high and dangerous, unless to the Regent, whose aim was to fish in troubled Waters, not caring for the future, gave fuel to the Zelots flame, which neither command nor Counsel could ever after extinguish.

I may not omit to Memory the horrid Massacre throughout all France, upon the persons of the reformed Religion, called by the Adversaries, Hugonites, from one Hugo (as they would [Page] have them) the History is so horrid, and the more uncertain in particulars, because the Papists strain their pens to piece it with some Excuses. But the truth was written then by One Ernest Varamund of Freezland, in the time of Charls the ninth King of France, 1573.

In Anno 1561. an Assembly of the Estates in the Kings house at Saint Germans in Lay neer Paris in France, in the time of Charls the ninth, concluded terms of Pacification in Religion, among other Articles, It should not be prejudicial to any Man to profess the Reformed Religion, in the Subur [...]s of Towns only.

Francis Duke of Guise (a Stranger, of the House of Lorain) was not present, and within few daies after in Champanie slew men, women and children in Vassey 200. persons; Among those of the Religion was Lewis of Bourbon of the blood, Prince of Conde, Gaspar de Caligni, Admiral of France, and Francis Andelot his Brother, Captain of the Fantarie, and others, Noblemen and Gentlemen.

Katherine de Medices (Pope Clements Brothers Daughter, and Mother of King Charls) born in Florence, a City of Italy, had the Government of the Realm in the Kings Minority; for though by the Law of France, neither Inheritance, nor Government, are admitted to Women; yet by negligence of Anthony King of Navar, She had the power. The Prince of Conde, in fear of the Guises, garrisoned some Towns, stood upon his Guard, and so began their Civil Wars there, and published his Reasons, For Defence of the Kings Edict for Religion. Several Battails, and losses on both sides, and the Duke slain, peace was made, and liberty of Religion in certain places, which continued for five years. The Queen, to strengthen her Party, cunningly brought in six thousand Switzers, and pretended them, for defence, quiet and peace to all; yet suddenly garrisoned such Towns as the Religion had willingly surrendred, saving onely Rochel, who stood upon their former Conditions two hundred years past, Not to be forced to any Garrisons. Upon some rumours and fears, the Prince of Conde, and the now Admiral [...]ly thither, the cause of the third Civil War.

The young King, by perswasion of Charls Cardinal of Lorain, the late Duke of Guises Brother, published Edicts, That no man profess other than the Romish Religion. But both parties wearied out with this last Miserable Distraction, the King politiquely pretends to drown all Discontents by a Reconciliation, and to join both forces against their Common Enemy the Spaniard, who in truth had barbarously murthered the French Plantation in Florida in the West Indies, and Marquisdome of Finall. And to this Contract ingaged the Prince of Orange in the low Countreys, by means of his Brother Lodowick, now in the Admirals Camp at the very time when the [Page] Emperour had offered to reconcile Orange to the Spaniard. And by these pretences this third War was ended, with Toleration of Religion as before, with unanimous Congratulation by Embassyes from the three Electors of Germany (Princes reformed) and sworn to by the King sacredly to observe. Which so incouraged the Orange party, as to bring all their Sea prizes into Rochel, and this Contract drew in Eliz. Queen of England; and all these overtures committed by the King to the Admirals prosecution.

Notwithstanding these publique Conditions therein, the Pope sent Cardinal Alexandrine from Rome, with Instructions to perswade the French King to enter societ [...] with the League of Trent, to make war upon the Heretiques; and had satisfactory answer from the King and Queen-Mother; and on the Contrary all possible tokens of favor to the Admiral and his Complices, in restoring their losses, with a sum of one [...]undred thousand pound Sterling, out of his Treasure, not leaving the least action undon to amuse the Admiral into firm assurance of the Kings faithful intentions. And to confirm belief, purposed to affiance his Sister Margaret to Prince Henry, Son to the Queen of Navar, who had defended the Cause of the Religion in the late Wars, and this to be celebrated according to the Reformed Religion. The League between Charls the King, and the Prince of Orange, and Articles concluded. The Mariage appointed in Paris, and the Queen of Navar (of the Religion) repaired thither for the Solemnity. The Admiral also sent for by the King to go before to Paris, promising himself to follow; and the Spire-Cross-Steeple, called Gastignes Cross erected in the rage of the Civil War, in Triumph and reproach of the Religion (a Monument of Civil Dissention) was by the Admirals request overthrown.

Great Assistance of Men and Ammunition sent to the Army of the Prince of Orange into Germany; And order to the Treasurer, to deliver moneys to the Admirall for the Publick Service, without accompt.

In this Interim, the Queen of Navar was impoisoned at Paris by a pair of perfumed Gloves, by one Renat, a cunning Apothecary, and so the Kingdome descended to Prince Henry her Son, who was to be affianced to the Kings Sister, and the Mariage solemnized with respect to eithers Religion. And five daies after the Admirall solicited the Council in behalf of the Religion, and returning home with divers Noblemen, he was shot by a Harquehuss out of a Window, through both his Arms, by one not certainly named, but the Abetters were Guisets.

The King visits the Admiral in some danger of Death, from whom he receives advice and Counsel in his private affairs, and with great affection and thanks, the King commanded a Guard for security of the Admirals person, by Cossin Captain of the Kings Guard an utter Enemy to the Admirall, and all his Friends advised to draw [Page] into the Admirals quarters to be neer to him.

Thus all things prepared for the purpose of a Massacre, the Queen Mother summons all the Confederates, with advice, to spare the King of Navars life, and the Prince of Conde, and the Execution to be the next night early, by Order of the Duke of Guise, who summoned the Diziners, and told them the Kings design to destroy all the Rebels of the late Wars, at the sound of the Tocksein or Bell, and the Mark of difference, a while Cross in their hats, and a handkercher about the arm. The Duke of Guise, with the Kings Guard, and the Bastard Son of King Henry, assisted by Cossins, beset the Admirals house, who nothing moved in respect of the Kings several sacred Oaths to peace, the league with the Queen of England, Articles of Treaty with Orange, Faith to the Princes of Germany, some Towns taken in the Low-Countries by the Kings Command, the Mariage of the Kings Sister, solemnized but six daies before, Ingagement of Forein States, shame and dishonor to the Law of Nations; all was by him argued as security.

Cossin with others, enters the house, and slew all in his way; the Admiral comanded his Servants about him to fly, and shift for themselvs, being ready himself to dy for the Church. [...]he Villains enter his Chamber, Benuese a German, thrust the Admiral into the Body, and Attin a Picard shot him into the Heart, with a Pistol, and threw his body out of the Window, down into the Court, where the Duke de Guise, and the Bastard, and other staied to view it, and so marching out, cryed, that this was the Kings pleasure, for that the Conspirators had resolved to kill the King.

The Admirals head was sent to Rome, his body dragged through the Streets, and after hanged up on the City Gallowes with a rope by the feet, and so all that day murthering and killing all of the Religion, Men, Women and Children.

The King of Navar, and Prince of Conde, in the Louvre were sent for to the Kings presence (their Servants being all slain) and so preserved; all the Noblemen and Gentlemen their friends slain, and the next day a fresh murthering ranged through all the Cities, and all the Offices and Places of the dead presented to the Murtherers, and by this Example Post news commanded all the other Places of Reformation to be so butchered throughout France, [...]s in Orleance, Angiers, Viaron, Troys, and Auxerre, &c.

The King fearing the Dishonor of this base Treachery, and perjury, posted Letters to all his Governours of Provinces, and speedy Messengers to England, Germany and Switzerland, of this great Commotion in France, raised by the Duke of Guise, and his Complices, upon the Guard and person of the Admiral, and his Friends, with the Death of many, and hazard therein of the Kings person, his Mother and Brethren by the safety of his Castle the Louvre; this [Page] dissimulation he was forced unto for the present; and yet within two daies after, declared in open Parliament, that the Admirall and his Confederates had conspired his death, with his Mothers, Brethren, and King of Navar, which was prevented by the others death. And this was published in print to this day; and from thenceforth all publique meetings of the Religion were forbidden.

Some Reluctancies there were of several persons that conclude this horrid fact, surpassing the memory of all former ages; Others compare it with the monstrous murthers of King Mithridates, who with one Messenger and one Letter, caused an hundred and fifty thousand Romans to be slain; some said it was like the murthers of Peter of Aragon upon eight thousand French in Sicily.

The difference was, their cruelty was executed on Strangers, this on the Kings own Subjects and Countreymen.

These Discourses put the King to consider how to blanch this monstrous act with some colour of Iustice. And therefore they framed a Body stuffed with bottles of Hay, for the Admiralls, dragged again about the Stre [...]ts, his Arms and Ensigns of Honour to be broken, his memory by a form of [...]riting condemned, his Castles and Houses razed, his children infamous, and his Trees and Woods to be hewn down from the height of six foot.

One Cavaignes and Briquemaul, men of excellent merit (the last being seventy years of age) were imprisoned and tormented for to subscribe, That they were of counsel with the Admiral to kill the King and his kindred, which they indured with horrid reluctancy even of their Tormentors, with great constancy, and therefore they had a form of Iustice, and were executed with the Halter, and so was the man of Straw the Admiralls Image, hanged with them for a ridiculous example, first murthered, and then by a mute arraignment, sentenced and executed.

Such as fled from slaughter, or were hidden in the woods, were by fair words in a Proclamation promised mercy, but returning home were sure of the slaughter.

And so throughout the whole Realm of France, for thirty dayes together, were so many thousands massacred, that besides the unmaried, there remained above an hundred thousand wid [...]s and children, well born, begging their bread.

When all was done, and wearied with slaughter, The Edicts came out, that the former Treaties of Pacification should cease. And a form of abjuration for such as were terrified by others sufferings to renounce th [...] Religion, and none to be suffered to profess other than the Romish faith.

[Page] Whilst these sparks of former feud lay raked up in embers by pacification at home in Scotland, Bishop Ross in England, and but imprisoned in the Tower (as you have heard) though a man full of plots and policies,Bishop Ross released out of the Tower▪ yet his privileges of Ambassador affording him protection for his life; It being too much suspicious to send him under hand to his grave, and legally they could not. He was therefore released, after 2 years imprisonment, and packt away over seas, into France; in whose time of imployment here,and banished. as a faithfull servant to his Queen, many Co-actors were put to death, others detected and imprisoned, yet even with his parting, he left not unattempting; and was for many years following, beyond seas, with all the Catholick Princes in Christendome, a most pestilent disturber of Queen Elizabeths quiet; for not long after, he delt with Henry 3. of France, to turn Morton out of his Regencie, and to steal the young King thither, whose faction in Scotland might weaken thereby; and as he grew in years (with the French Tutorage) his affections might decay towards the English; the ancient league with the French strengthned, and with England dissolved.

In this small time of cessation from War,The Borderers con [...]er, the Scots without cause to implore England for any ayd or relief. The Governours of each Borders assign a meeting to compose differences for eithers quiet, against the usuall rapines of Robbers▪ where, disputes began, and quarrells followed: the English were worsted, and taking the neerer way,and quarrel. fled from the fury into Scotland, and so for justice to Morton; whose censure being much too partiall, not onely in not doing right, to punish his countrey men, but dismisses the English, with much ado [...], by Subscription, and Pledges.

This behaviour of the Scots, Mor [...]ons wi [...]e submission. soon incensed the Queen, who being presently upon the posture of a Bordering War, Morton prudently layes blame on the Scots Commanders, beseechet [...] her Majesty not to raise a War with them, whose maintenance must be with much blood, the common cause necessarily begging defence of peace, betwixt the two Kingdoms, and if civil War should follow upon Scotland, it might introduce a necessity in them, to call in the French, whom she in her Princely affection and great wisdome, had but lately afforded them the means to ridd away. And that before time should grow elder, his endeavours should be with such good offices and service for her Majesty, as might countervail the inconveniences already happened. And for questioning of the Governour, he remembred a president under Henry 7. for expiation of Sir Robert Carrs death (then Governour of the middle borders) which was then referred to a meeting in Scotland to enquire. This gray-hair-instance incensed her the more, untill [Page] the Scots Governour Carmichell was sent to answer it in England, Anno 1574. and then indeed, his Present of Hawkes to the Courtiers, became a saying, He gave them live Hauks for dead Herons; Two Brothers of that Name Herons killed in the fray.

This petty disturbance,The Ministers stiled Praecisians. gave time and leasure for the Praecisians (now so stiled) not to forget their ministerial ragings, who evermore upon such occasions put in a spoke for themselves, because their stipend was not redressed. And herein were so presumptuous, as to utter their fancies, and to act what ere they thought best for their advantage. But herein the Regent stopt them in their Career, remembring them of the Treaty of Lieth, which forbad all Innovation in Religion, during the Kings Minority.

This year took away James Hamilton Earl of Arran, Duke Castle-herauld dies. and Duke of Castle-herauld at Poictures a Province in France. He was Grandchild to James 2. And after the death of James the 5. In the vigour of youth, and Mary his daughter succeeding in the Crown, she had this Hamilton a while for her Protector, and then declared her Heir apparent.His Character A mild man and tractable he was, though her birth and quality, drew on turbulent spirits, to bring him on the stage, and sent him into France with her, where he was caressed for their party, and created Duke, and Captain of a troop of Horse. Somewhat he medled in state, after his return home, but soon retired into privacie; for which the mad-headed Ministers and Buchanan blamed him of sloth.and Issue. From him, proceeds 4. branches, James Earl of Arran; John, Claud, and David, three of them infected with the Mothers disease, became frantick, or rather bewitched.

At this time was Iohn Ormston, commonly called black Ormston, O [...]mston executed for the Kings murder. because of his Iron colour, apprehended and had his tryal, and executed for being guilty of the late Kings Murther. Likely enough to have discovered more particulars than he did confess, being Intimate with Bothwell, who communicated the purpose to him, and shewed him the subscriptions of the Earls of Argaile, Huntly, Secretary Lethington, and Balfore, testifying their consents to that horrid Act.

Nevertheless the Regent permitted Balfore to enjoy the benefit of the Pacification, passing an Act thereof in counsel, to the regret of many: for though it was doubted whether the subscription of Arguile and Huntly, were not counterfeit, but of the other, the hate to their persons, made the sensure of their guilt, easie of beliefe to all, but Arguile dying soon after, his office of Chancellor was conferd on the Lord Glams.

Adam Heriot Minister of Aberdee [...] dyed this year,Heriots death & Character [...]. and of their Church is accompted worthy Record; he had been a Fryer of the order of St. Austin, living in the Abbey of St. Andrews, learned and eloquent in the Pulpit, subtile also in school divinity. The Queen Mother, heretofore, hearing him preach, was [Page] so affected to his wit,Anno 1575. and judgment, and integrity, that in reasoning with some Lords upon the Article of Real presence, she offered to be concluded by Heriots opinion; who was required to preach thereupon, before her, and a numerous Auditory. But there he flaggd so prevaricate, as most men were unsatis [...]ied, of which being sharply censured by some, his worthy friends, he fell into sadness and regret of soul, till he did openly recant, and renounce Popery, and forthwith joyned with the then congregation. And afterwards in the ordering of distribution for Ministers amongst the Burgs, he was elected for Aberdeen (the place then, of the ablest Papists) the rather, therefore; to reclame them from their errors, by practice of Piety, profound preaching, wherein he profited, to again of many to the faith in 14 years labour: and dyed 60 years of age.

And now was Andrew Melvil, Inovation in Church▪ by Melvil▪ a fiery zelot labouring for the absolute Presbyterial discipline of Geneva, i [...]sinuating with Iohn Dury minister of Edenburugh in their Assembly, to question the lawfulness of the Episcopall function, and the Authority of Chapiters in their election; but himself (cunningly pretended ignorance) but since the question was so started he commended the speakers zeal, seconding the purpose, with a tedious discourse of the flourishing estate of Geneva Church, and the opinion of wise Mr. Calvin, and reverend Mr. Beza, and came to affirm.

That None ought to be Officers in the Church,agai [...]st Episcopal [...]unction. whose Titles were not found in the [...]. And though that of Bishops were in Scripture, yet not to be taken in the same sense, that commonly was conceived; Christ allowing no Superiority amongst Ministers. Himself only Lord of his Church, and all the Servants in one degree, having like power. Concluding, Then the Corruptions of Bishops were so great, that unless removed, Religion could not be long preserved.

Hereupon divers are selected to confer three to three, and concluded their opinions to the Assembly.

1. That the Name Bishop was common to able Ministers of a flock, his chief function to preach, to administer Sacraments, and exercise Ecclesiastical Discipline with consent of his Elders.

2. That some one Minister might oversee and visit such reasonable bounds besides his own flock.

3. And he to appoint Preachers, with advice of the Provincial Ministers, and the consent of the flock.

4. And to suspend Ministers from their Office, with consent of the Ministers of the bounds.

It is strange that the Arch-bishop of Glasgow, and six other Bishops with Super-intendents▪ and all interessed, were not called to the conference, though present in the Assembly. Nor doth it appear that they spake at all therein, so humble to hold [Page] their tongues in a case of their own, or rather referring it to the Regents Wisdom, whose opinion had been ever to uphold Episcopacy.

The next Assembly altered the question, and formed it, Whether Bishops as they were then in Scotland, had their function warranted by the Word of God? But the Major part approved of those in the last Meeting.

The Regent finding them so to differ, sent them word, to settle upon somewhat▪ and to abide therein. Of which they take advantage, and with much ado present a form of Policy to the Regent; Acknowledging in their Preface, That they did not accompt it compleat, but to add or diminish as God shall reveal vnto them; But some Troubles in State prevent their further progress.

The RegentThe Regent misgoverns. flesht in the fury of rapine, having fleeced Commons and Clergy, and settled the North and South Borders, cared not for the Gentry, and grieved the Peers; His neerest friends, the Earl of Angus, and others, forewarned him of his Slippery station; But Morton, settled in the very seat of the Scorne [...], careless of any complaints, made good his greatness by grace of Queen Elizabeth, whom he conserved with all diligent observance. His aim was to ruin Hamiltons house, hating them as his Hereditary Enemies, scared thereto by an old Wives Rhime, which bid him beware of Arrans Race (Hamiltons Family) whom he banished or suppressed.

The two last years (as it seems) slipt away in shew (I am sure in silence of any disturbance,Q. of Sco [...]s designed to dy. for ought that Authors can tell, to much purpose) but it is like the more was in secret hatching. For as the Queens Imprisonment grew to her impatient, so by Q. Elizabeth it was heightned to some danger. As a Wolf by the Ear. To keep her in durance, was her own disquiet, and to release her, dangerous to the State; all their study was to counsel what to do with her, and with much difficulty it was agreed upon to put her to Death.

There was one Antonio d' Peres, An [...]o [...]. d'Peres in Englan. Secretary to Philip of Spain, escaped thence out of Prison, and over he comes to England, as best able here to do his Master most injury. He was grown intimate with the Earl of Essex, which being known to Caecil Lord Burleigh, he advised, that Essex might deal with him, to fish out somewhat from his Masters streams, which was done to the purpose, revealing all his designs for the imprisoned Queen, and being rewarded here, had his Invitation home again, with some hope of reconcilement and favor also, which fell out, not as he desired but as he deserv'd, for he was at last hangd for his labor. In many of his Letters to Essex, which since came to my hands, I find much of the m [...]tter, but for want of the Key, the Cyphers [Page] put me to trouble, with some consideration, What uneven policies there were, Anno 1576. towards that poor imprisoned Queen.

Don Iuan Don John [...] design bl [...]sted in th [...] bud. of Austria, Governour, for the King of Spain, over the Netherlands, proud and ambitious; being Neighbourly acquainted with the Troubles of England and Scotland (for to him all these discontented Fugitives repaired) was made believe, that the Duke of Norfolk being gon, the Queen of Scots was most fit to be offered to him, and easie enough to be effected, with the expulsion of Queen Elizabeth, and assured hopes of both Kingdomes. To which purpose, he hastily makes perpetual peace with the Netherlands, and labours his time and means to infest England. But underhand to amuse Queen Elizabeth the more, gives her the occasion to congratulate the Peace, by sending the Articles for her perusal; intending secretly with all speed to surprize some Pieces and Ports in England, and Scotland, with help of the Pope, who sent to the King of Spain in his behalf; and the chief Fugitives of England and Scotland being with him, he in an instant, had swallowed the Conceit and Mariage of a Queen, with two Kingdomes to boot; but his wilde ambition the sooner flatted, and he fooled into neglect, and disdain.

And now dies that Princely Lady Margaret Dowglas, old Countess Dowager of Lenox, Ma [...]gari [...]e old Countess Lenox dies. 63 years of age; whom Queen Elizabeth kept in England at her elbow, whilst her sonne Darly was maried to the Scots Queen, and her husband had power there. She was descended from Henry 7. by Margaret his eldest daughter, maried to James 4. who had James 5. And being a widow, maried to a second husband, Her Royal descent, Archibald Dowglas Earl of Angus; by whom she had Margaret Dowglas of Harbotel in Northumberland, who maried Mathew Earl of Lenox, leaves France and comes into England to Henry 8. And here invested with honour and land in Yorkshire.and Issue. From these issued Henry Stuart Lord Darly, who maried Queen Mary, of whom came King James 6.

So then, her descent was royall; in King Edwards time in much honnor here, but after in adverse fortune, she lived supervivor to eight of her children; thrice imprisoned for affecting mariages with Thomas Howard, son to the Duke of Norfolk; then for her sons match with Queen Mary; and the last was, for her younger son Charles, with Elizabeth Candish daughter to the Countess of Shrewsbury, and mother to the Lady Arabella. She was Nobly intombed at Westminster, an elaborate Sepulture, and then left living King Iames the sixth, and this Arabella, who was thus neer to the Crowns; And therefore imprisoned hereafter by King Iames for intermariage with Seymor the now Earl of Hartford, but she died without issue, and so without [...] of future interest to these Kingdomes. See anno 1616.

[Page] Amongst other of Mortons plots and processes,Anno 1577. raysing the Revenues of the Crown, one was, for recovery of some lands, which was given by the Queen to Mary Levingston whilst she was her maid of honour,Con [...]p [...]rators against the Regent and now maried to Iohn Simple, who made his best defence in his sute; but fearing the Regents rigour, had passionately avowed, That if he lost his land, the other should lose his life. This, and other discourse, that he was countenanced by Lord Iohn Hamilton and his brother Lord Claud; instigating also Adam Whiteford of Milton, Nephew to Simple, to kill the Regent in the street with an Harquebus. Simple upon Torture confessed all, and more also, his cowardize not affording him courage to hold out: Whiteford did better, his constancie was not terrified with the wrack, and therefore, gave suspition, that the others confession was extorted, by the pain, of punishment, yet to make out the matter, Simple was arraigned, condemned, and brought to the Scaffold, but pardoned; the like had the other; and both of them, the favour of the people, to blame the Regent for his rigour, whose main intention was thereby, to invalue these Lords and their estates, to his griping gain.

One Allester Dow Macallan a notorious thief, was apprehended by Earl Athol, Arguile and Athol at variance. who was prohibited by the council, and charges directed against him, for exhibition of the man. the fellow being set at liberty by Arguile, falls to his old profession, and robd Athol, who in revenge invades Arguile, and so the countrey take uprore thereat, until an Herauld discharges those convocations, and cites them both before the Council, but were reconciled.

Arguile goes on and arms against Claudonald, seizes the Regents Messenger, tears his Letters missive, and swears him and his Train not to return to tell tales. This insolencie, fires the Regent to revenge, and for the present did no more, than proclaim him Rebel.

But these and other tumults shewed an Ecclipse of Ministerial Government, and gave means to private mens discontents, to open a way of complaint against the Regent. Alexander Arskin, Forerunner of the Regents fall. attending on the King, takes advantage of Arguile and Athols reconcilement, plots with them, to open their Causes to the King, which they must countenance, and did, but so craftily, as that the one (Athols) counsel was called, upon the others complaint. And advise, to summon the Lords (mostly enemies to the Regent) to meet at Sterlin.

Mortons avarice and lust subjects him, from his strength and Power that ruled all, to become weak in Authority over any; His enormities of several natures, numberless, which brought him sodainly to sinck. Besides his fins, the Hamiltons were his [Page] Enemies, made so by his own malice, upon that Noble Family; as also upon the Earls Athol, Montross, and Arguile, whose kinsmen he proclaimed Traytors, for not appearing at his Call.

Arguile invites these Lords and others to accompany him to the King at Sterlin, Complaint [...] ag [...]inst Morton, with remonstrance of such grievances as the State groaned under; and were seconded by fit Instruments, such as evermore reside at Court. He is sent for by the King, and Council, but delaies time to make Friends; their opinions various, it was yet concluded as the safest way, to piece Friendship with Arguile, who refused, unless he would also quit the Regency. To this he demurs, and retires from his Enemies power.

And this gave good occasion to the boisterous Praecisians, which the Mini [...]ry increase whose pursute was after such prey, as might innovate Authority, which they hated, because it was Regal, though Mortons interest had been ever to preserve them; the Arch-bishops only being lately commanded not to obey the Synods Decretalls, against which they complain in the Pulpit, and having there the liberty of the tongue, for that time, they tell all to the people, and of more than he could be guilty. The Earl of Angus was his Ally in blood, and the chief of the Dowglasses, who with Carmichel a Commander of War, advise him to Arms; But Morton rather submitted to a Parliament at Sterlin.

Thither he sends his Friends (but withdrew himself) and with them his Papers and Notes expostulatory of his good Services, which were not liked, because not Petitionary. And thus they seemed to signify, and first,

He craves leave of publique Iustice upon his Accusers.Regent offers to resign. If otherwise that his Majesty thought fit to oversee their disobedience to authority, then to be pleased to disburthen him of his Office, and not to suffer his Royall Name and Authority to be despised in the Person of his Servant; for as he had oft times made offer to demit his Regency to his Majesty, so now the more willing, if a Substantial course might be assured for preservation of his Highness person, the ordering of his Majesties Houshold, and dispensing of the Revenues of the Crown. And herewith he recommended the keeping of the peace contracted with England as a security to his Majesties Right and Title to Succession. And so recounting his former Services from the Kings birth to this present. His assistance at the Kings Coronation. His and his Friends hazard at Lanside field, the siege [...] Brichen. His legations undertaken into England, the recovery of the Castle of Edenburgh, the Pacification of the Realm, all on fire a [...] his first entrance, the redeeming of Iewels and Plate of the Crown, and restoring of the Royall Patrimony to some reasonable condition. And in regard of all, he craved no more, than allowance of his expence, and a discharge of his Intromissions by the Estates of Parliament.

[Page] These not sufficient to prevail, and his friends having littl [...] Power, and his bad Cause to plead, he was voted non-Regent.

And accordingly into the hands of Angus, Is deposed. Claim, Ruthen, and Harris, he delivers the Crown, Scepter, and other Regalities, which were presented by them in a great Convention of Lords, and Angus invests them on the King, with the univocal acclamation of all.The King 12. years old is Crowned. He having not yet attained to the years of youth, yet in this turbulent time, took upon him the Scepter, which was celebrated at Edenburgh, and the affairs of State rendered to the King now at twelve years old, but with assistance of twelve Noblemen, three of them by turns alwaies about him, and Morton of the number, as to bring him to reason, not to cast him quite off to ruin; whose wit and experience was useful to the State, which he soon imployed to master them all.A sactio [...] Geneve Synod.

The deposing Mort on exalted the Presbyterian hopes, to erect the Geneve Discipline, by Pastors, Deans, and Super-intendents, and now to bring it about, they call a Synod, wherein all factions, to the prejudice of the King, were more cherished than Divine Worship intended; for they decree, The Ecclesiastical Regency to the Super-Intendents, and left the Bishops only to one Church, and exempt from Iurisdiction▪ to relinguish Episcopacy, and to omit Dispensation of Divine duties.

The King withstood this decree, and revokes the business to his own brest; and therein the Bishop of St. Andrews was the greatest Stickler. The adverse party had Andrew Melvin, Melvin. a Man singular with them, but not with the learned; His tenents were To vindicate equality in the Ministry, arrogantly endeavouring to suppress the Churches ancient authority, and to erect to themselves, a Statue of honour, from the ruins of the Bishops disgrace.

Sick, and ill disposed, was the estate of Episcopacy, the Praecisians prevalent in number. The Nobles for Episcopacy, joined with the Kings inclination, To take protection of the fainting Ecclesiastick Discipline into his Care, commanding the other to infuse fidelity into the people, to abstain from innovation, to reverence Bishops, and follow peace.

Mortons [...] gave him time and means to meditate Revenge,Morton plots re [...]enge by the E [...]rl of Mar. and [...] with the youthful inclination of the young E. of Mar, [...] quarrel with his Uncle Erskin for assuming the chiefty of that family, and the usurpation of the Kings Tut [...]lage. It took fire with the Gallant, who secretly with his Train, possesses Sterlin Castle, his Uncle Erskin and the King, and puts by Arguile, one of the three Assistants. The noyse hereof brings the Lords into Arms, and their care of the Peace of the Kingdom, [Page] assign Commissioners herein,Anno 1578. who decree all Erskins former interest upon Mar. The Queen of England sends Randolph, Randolph Ambassadour. (whose often Legations had made him exquisite) to congratulate the King, whose rare and various Ornaments of Wit and Learning, eminent in such an age, as no Prince could ever parallel, assures the Queens great affection, and perswades the Lords to peace, which was patcht up for the present.

But Morton grows insolent, abolishing the Triumvirate rule, and usurps all to himself; of which Arguile, Athol, and Montross, remonstrate to the King, who refers it to the next Parliament in Iuly at Edenburgh, Parliament Royal, where secretly some Lords covenant, whom Morton undermines by fraction, and advises for the meeting at Sterlin, as more wholsom for the King and Nobles, but indeed fitted for his faction of men of Arms, and so it was to be there, in the Court of the Castle, and not, as usual, in the Common-Hall; against which the other Edenburgh Lords protested, as invalid, and would not meet. But the Parliament sate, and the King this first time adorned with Majesterial Ornaments, Robes and Scepter, told them, That it was not material where they met, so his safety were included; that his Court entertained all, excluded none; However this place should be no Prescript for posterity; that he intended no innovation against his Predecessors Institutions; disagree, that the opinions of a few, should not dictate to the whole, and so approves the Act by Proclamation.

Montross, a Commissioner for the Lords remaining at Edenburgh, posts thither with this news, they take Arms ten thousand men, and yet declare for the King. Angus, Mar, and Morton, do the like at Sterlin, wh [...]re both sides incamp, but fought not, at the earnest endeavour [...] the English Ambassadour Sir Iohn Bowes, and all disband. And to piece this Discord, and are made Friends. the King proposes Moderators, Lindsey, Harris, Ogleby, Innerness, for Arguile; and Rothess, Bucan, Ruthen and Boyd, for Morton; but not prevailing, Morton retires to his Palace at Dalkieth; In whose absence, the Delegates accord, and he, and Arguile, and Athol, meet and feast at Lieth, which so pleased the King, that he congratulates those whose endeavours had acted so much good, and they again discuss, what can be commodious for his Princely Dignity, Magnificence, and Profit.

And it began to be time so to do; the Kings wants the Council supply by over value of Coyn; Coyn overvalued. which the Citizens withstood, as over bitter for their digest; Experience having taught this truth, That the value of Silver, alters the price of victual and all vendables; the King, as the great Rent Master, or Land-lord, bearing the greatest Loss for the future, though not discernable for the[Page]present, to his raw young Counsellors; and this trick was put upon Morton, and worse happened to his destruction.

The Earl Athole, Lord Chancellour, by the extremity of his disease,The Chancellor impoisoned by Morton yielded to nature, or rather a delaying, consuming poison forced him hence; the suspition fell sadly upon his Corrival Morton, and the revenge fell into the Power of Arguile, who was chosen Chancellour in his Place. This occasion no doubt, the very Devil put into Mortons head, to work himself mischief; for in pure Conscience, he intimates to the King the story of his death, and so instigates his anger, against the Hamiltons, remembring also, the slaughter of his Grandfather Lenox, and of Murray, late Regents; and for these other crimes (aforesaid 1573.) and so begins their persecution with fire and Sword, assisted with Mar and Angus. The Hamiltons within their Castle, and other places besieged, were forced to yield to the Mercy of the King, who executed the Actors of the Paracide, and pardoned the rest. Iohn, and Claud, the Sons of the late Duke of Castle-herauld, in great distress what to do, adventured to fly into England, whom the Queen vouchsafed harbouring, and sent Master Erington, to intercede with the King.

The next Parliament was in October at Edenburgh, Parliament, the Kings royal appearance. where the King shewes himself to his People; his years advanced, with his Princely understanding to extraordinary Fame, requiring his person more publike than at Sterling. Solemnities and Ceremonies of Princes being the formal entertainments of reverence and respects. And so he rode in all possible State, the first day of sitting.

A great novelty to many to find Majesty in Man, that had but seen the shadow, for m [...]y years in Queens or Counterfeits, but now attracted from the peoples hearts and hands venerations and blessings.

He tells the Houses the benefit of peace,His Speech. and this blessed opportunity to confer with them, for the good of the Kingdome, which his non-age had denyed them, administring rather occasion of Commotion, than the remedy of publick grievance; which now he resolves to redress; alwayes reposing confidence in their wise Counsels, and calls God to witness, his part aimed at the Preservation of Religion, Subjects safety, and Kingdoms security.

And first he enacted.Act [...] [...]or Religion.

The form of Confession agreed in anno 1567.

To the Prescript administration of the Sacraments in Act and Will.

That the present Religion embraced was to be esteemed Orthodoxal in doctrine and discipline.

[Page] And to be imposed upon all that went beyond seas, by Oath and Subscription.

The Bible commanded in Scotch to each family.

The Power of Ministers regulated and limitted; And the Discipline erected by the Bishops and Super-intendents (which had suffered some Diminution, but no Synodical act for abolition) should be confirmed.

And so with prosperous effects, the Parliament ended, and the King returns to his Sports at Sterlin.

The Presbyters now took up some colourable fears,Aubigny Stuart in great favour. upon landing of one Amys (or Amatus) Stuart Lord Aubigny, so called from Aubigny a Village in Aquitain; a French-man born, but of Scots family, and kinsman to the King. A notorious Guisit (and Papist, as they would have him.)

The Town Aubigny was (by Charles the seventh of France) given to Iohn Stuart of the family of Lenox, who commanded the Scots there, and worsted the English; which Town and Title, depend ever since, on the younger Sons, and so on this Man. He was sent over by the Guises, or rather sent for over by Montross, and Arguile, to subvert Morton, or to break the Truce twixt England and Scotland. And no sooner landed, but received with all honor, and advanced in trust; created Earl of Lenox, and after created Duke; a privy Counsellor, of the Bed-chamber, and Governour of Dunbarton Castle.

He was soon accused for engrossing so suddenly so much favour, But disliked there and in England. and since it hath been taken up for advantage; who ever was like to please the King, was thereupon cryed down by the Church, for a Papist; and so he was presented to Queen Elizabeth, a dangerous Man, and what mischief an evil favourite might suggest to the Kings maturity; fitted to act evil impressions; his Mothers Designs, troublesome to both Realms, more easy and proper for him to execute.

These in England, Qu. Eliz. Messenge [...] neglected. and somewhat at home, both together to wrest him from the King, and Bowes is sent from Berwick to charge it home before the King, and his Council. The Queen of England not liking any so neer the King so much of the French Faction, as he, and one Monbirneau, an Actor in the Massacre of France. Bowes, ere he entered into his errand, required to have Lenox and him dismist the Board, which was refused before the cause or crime were charged; and bidden to produce his Commission for his peremptory demand, which he could not, and so was forthwith called home.

Yet to prevent the prejudice of his anger, Alexander Hume is sent after to excuse it to the Queen, so to learn the truth of her mistrust; She, as in such Cases to Messengers, so all Princes take, as Affronts to themselves, and so did She, and remits [Page] him to Burleigh, Anno 1580. disdaining to see him her self.

Burleigh Wisely assured him, the Queens affections to his own person, as a Protestant, and his merits to his Master, which she would own in any of his Ministers;Burleighs speech to the Scots Ambassadour. besides, she knew him a good Counsellor for her Kinsman the King, but denies you her presence, who lookes not upon any Ambassadour, from another, where her own have been unheard, and his Commission demanded, without President. But, these are the fruits (said he) of your young Kings new Counsellors, whose first principles are to discredit your best friends, and interess their factions, such as the Cosin Guises, and a Frenchman or two of theirs, sent over for that purpose, to hazard ruin to the State, if they be let to run on, unless, the Queens prudence and power prevent. And so he parted.

Morton full of malice,Morton disconten tretires. retires in discontent to Dalkieth, disliking the state, and manner of Court Miners; for in doubt of some danger to his own person, he came not neer the King, but as commanded to counsel. This distance gave his Enemies cause to fear, and to prevent his hatred, hasten their resolution to ruin him by the accusation of Iames Stuart, sonne to the Lord Ucheltrie, a bold-faced young man, and had his arrand to charge him home; which he did, (of murthering the late King) and thus accused,Charged with the late Kings Murther. to his face, and confined to his lodging, he might expect no better, than the last act of fate, to take away his life; and though a Pensioner to England, this was done, without dread of any. But this ill news coming to Queen Elizabeth, Randolph rides post from Q Eliz. she Posts away Randolph, now Post master of England, to remove Lenox, and to plead for Morton.

And in their great Assembly he recounts the Queens favours, in freeing the Scots of the French, with expence of English blood, and treasure; when her power could have seized all, for her self, the King then in his cradle; his Regents successively owning these kindnesses, till Aubigny and that other, came in to ruine Religion, and rule the King, as their ward: producing letters to some purpose, which most men thought, to be counterfeit; and so effected nothing.

When nothing would serve his turn, to turn out favorities; Randolph takes upon him to set them by the ears,abuses his privilege of an Ambassadour. and deals with both factions, Lenox and Mortons (underhand) working jealousies, to free themselves by force, from eithers fewd, which grew high and daingerous; offering ayd from England, to set things square, which he made round. These being marched to the Borders, and the Scots (as for the King) prepared to receive them, the English faction withdrew then, and being discovered, many were sen [...] to prison, and Randolph thus far besides his Commission, durst not indure the power of his privilege, but slipt away, leaving his Nephew, and Angus and Mar, chief incendiaries [Page] to shift after;Anno 1581. and Morton to his just reward, who was forthwith arraigned, convict and beheaded, for the murther of the Kings father; and so confest by him, before he dyed, with this excuse, that in those times of distraction,Mor [...]on beheaded with his own Ax. he durst not but to do so. The fatall Axe (called the maiden) himself had Patterned from that at Hallifax in Yorkshire, which he had seen, and liked the fashion; for falling down between two posts, executed him sure and sodain. His Honour and Title was conferred on Iohn Maxwell.

He was an able man in what he undertook,His character. so that we may say as of Cato, In hoc viro, tanta vis animi ingeniique fuit, ut quocunque loco natus est, fortunam sibi ipse facturus fuisse videretur; nulla ars, neque privatae, neque publicae rei gerendae, ei defuit, urbanas rusticasque res pariter callebat. He was slow of speech, with a natural composed gravity, his countenance Majesticall, his actions Princely, had not that guilt of too much gathering and griping, degraded those excellencies, and left him naked to deserve nothing. He desired to have a thing which dyed with him, the Scots lawes reduced into Methode, and it was urged as useless. A great question with them, to have Order in any thing that had none to serve God; their opinion then hath since infected us.

His great wealth got together, was scattered by unfaithful hands and hearts. Livor post fata quiescit.

Discite mortales, mortalia temnere, & illa

Quaerere, quae miseris non rapit aura levis.

About this time Ruthen (lately created E. Gowry) the son of William Ruthen Queen Maries deadly Enemy, Ruthen created [...]arl of Gowry. with other conspirators, under pretence of conserving the peace of Religion, to which they were urged by the factious Ministery, and which to secure, they endeavour to remove Lenox and Arran from the King (that was their colour) but in their absence they invite the King to Ruthen Castle, and their seize him Prisoner, with threats of death, untill he consented to the imprisoning of Arran, banishing of Lenox into France, and the return of the fugitive Angus out of England.

Of this the distressed Queen of Scots, Q. Mary writes to Q. Eliz. Prisoner at Sheffield, writes to Queen Elizabeth a long letter full of miserable sadness, Exquisitely expressing all her sufferings, from the first of her subjects very oft Rebellion against her, from which persecution being invited by her Majesty to rest secure upon her Princely succour and defence, she is now by length of time drawn on to dispair of release from that hand, which lodes her with lingring of a lothed life; plainly and justly demonstrates her, to be active and passive [Page] consenting to all her Mishaps.Anno 1582. She calls God to witness her Impartial affection to her Person, and her innocency from prejudice of her affairs and State. Desires justice of God and her, and implores the mitigation of her misery, and some more freedome, though with Imprisonment of her Person. Layes all particular differences home to the Conscience of the Queen, and signs to her Letter,

Vostre tres desolei plus proche parente & affectionate Seure Mary Reg.

Indeed these were sharp and peircing, which so much disquieted Queen Elizabeths Conscience,Which troubles her conscience. that she consults to release her, jointly to govern with the King. And eight Articles were drawn up (even such as they were) the world knew she would never refuse; for her extremity enforced her to yield to most unreasonable: but this was but to spin time, till the State could find some other expedients, or some exceptions, which dayly happened by Examinations, Confessions, or Suspitions, grounded upon slender, yet continual attempts of private persons, and publique Designes of Forein States, for the poor Queens interests; which failing for her good, she was, though innocent, sure to smart.

But because the manner of the Kings restraint in Ruthen is diversly related, and which the Kirk justified for their own ends, I shall adventure upon the Truth in these particulars hereafter.

Some of the Lords combining mischief to the King,Surprize of the King at Ruthen. under colour of Religion and Liberty of the Kingdom, took occasion and advantage of the Duke of Arrans absence from the Court, and detained the King at Ruthen. These Conspirators were Iohn Earl of Mar, William Earl Gowry, Lords Lindsey, Boyd, Clames, and Oliphant, Some Abbots and Lairds, and stopt the King going to hunting, who not being answered to the reason and cause, grew in passion, which concluded in tears to be thus vilified. But it was reproached, That better bairns should weep than bearded men.

This news hastens the Earl of Arran to Court, where he was soon secured, and bid be patient, with safety of his life, for his brother William Stuart was wounded by the way, and kept Prisoner. The like course they take with some Noblemen sent [Page] by the Duke of Lenox to enquire of the King. Who cried out to them that he was a Captive, and desired his good subjects to release him. The conspirators excused themselves, that their surprize only restrained the King from Arran, and from Lenox, whose banishment they threatned into France. And forcing the King to pacifie the people with a Proclamation, That for removing some differences, His Majesty interposed himself Mediator, and resolved to reside at Perth, being his own free and voluntary choice, and commanding such as were in Arms upon pretext of his restraint, to dissolve within six houres, on pain of death.

The Duke raises Forces, but was countermanded by the Kings Letter, to depart the Realm within twenty daies, yet he retires to Dunbarton, where the Noble-men, and others, flock to defend his Cause. These uprores were posted to Queen Elizabeth, who sends Sir Henry Cary, and Sir Robert Bowes to advise the King to be counselled by the Lords, against the Duke and Arran, and to restore the Earl of Angus, exiled in England since Mortons execution. This last was obtained, and soon after, he was accepted into favour, but much ado to incline the King to part with Lenox.

The Lords carry the King to Edenburgh, Removed to Edenburgh, and are confirmed by the Clergy. where the Ministry justifie their act, joyfully singing in Procession the 124. Psalm, New Israel may say, &c.

And the Assembly then convened, ratifie the attempt on the Kings person at Ruthen, and published it in all the Churches of the Realm, to the regret and grief of all good men, to see a bad cause thus coloured over and defended by the Church, which made much for their Popedom, that by these means of distraction the Lords gave themselves up to be governed by the Others Judgements. Many there were that sided herein, the most honest refused to subscribe. But Arran was detained prisoner, till the Duke was gon over Seas to France, who fell sick at Sea, and had leave to land at Blackness, and so to pass, by Queen Elizabeths favour, though England, where his sickness contracted into a Disease, of which he died in Paris next year after, and confessed the faith of the Church of Scotland, which he alwaies maintained, though in the Kirks policy he was accounted a Court Papist.

Two Ambassadors come from France,Ambassadours ill used. Menvel and la Matt through England, with whom was sent Davidson from Qu. Eliz. to undermine their Message, being, To work the Kings Liberty, to confirm him to the French, and renew the purpose of Association, which was▪ That the Queen of Scots should communicate the Crown with her son, and administration of Iustice, so that he may be acknowledged a lawful King by all Christian Princes; and thereby all domestique factions suppressed.

[Page] This Embassy was voted in the Kirks Assembly to be a special grievance, a wicked practice, declaming in their Pulpits against la Matt, who being a Knight of the Order of St. Esprit, wore the badge of the White-Cross upon his Shoulder, which they called, The badge of Antichrist, and him, The Ambassadour of the bloody Murtherer, meaning the Duke of Guise, who sent him thither.

The King,The King Orders to feast them, but the Kirk command a fast. not able to do it otherwaies, desired the Magistrates of Edenburgh not to demit them without a Feast at parting, which was concluded on the Monday after. And all cost prepared in Order thereto. When on Sunday the very day before, the Kirk proclame in their Pulpits the next day to be kept fast; and in malice to the Kings honour therein, appointed three Preachers, the one succeeding the other, to weary the poor peoples attention from Morning till night, Thundering Curses, Anathema's and Excommunication against all Nobles, Magistrates and Others that attended the Ambassadors. The good King sees these insolencies, but lodges them up in silence, till he got power to remedy these wrongs.

About this time dies Buchanan, Buchanans dea [...]h and Character. whose Character is chronicled by the Arch-bishop of Saint Andrews in his History of their Church, For his excellent wit and incomparable learning. Born near the Highlands. After his first commitment 1539. for his versifying against the Fryers, he escaped to France. Returning 1560. he professed Philosophy at Saint Andrews, and became the Kings Tutor.

He is concluded by all moderate and faithful Recordes, That he penned his Scotish History with eloquence, and with such Judgement, as that he is justly blamed by most men, for joining with all factions of the time, and evermore to justifie any base and scandalous proceeding against Queen Mary, and falsly and fowly he endeavoured to depress the Royal authority of Princes, siding with the Treasonable tenents of rebellious Subjects, which afterwards he expressed with bitter unmanerly sauciness of his Soveraign Queen then deceased. This is the joint opinion of some, with whom we may be convinced to incline.

This next Summer the King got free from his Attenders,The King freeth himself. for being in Faulkland, he desired to visit his Uncle the Earl of March then at Saint Andrews, where he took a view of the Castle, and being entered, the Captain of the Guard, Colonel Stuart (acquainted with the Design) clapt to the Gates and shut out the Company, and the next morning came the Kings friends the Earls of Arguile, Marshall, Montross and Rothess. And of his former Jaylers none but the Earl Gowry was admitted by the Collonels means, who had been his Servant, and upon his humble [Page] submission for his Fact at Ruthen, Anno 1583. was received to mercy, and all these Lords elected his Counsellors, with Inhibition that none should presume to come to Court with more attendants than fifteen with an Earl or Bishop, ten with a Lord, or Abbot, or Priour, and six with a Baron. And now declares in publique, That however his Majesty did with patience perforce indure his restraint at Ruthen, and all those former passages of Treasonable disloyalty, yet willing to be an Example of Clemency to others he in favour pardoned all, admonishing the Lords to do so too amongst themselves. Yet their consciences accusing left not to convene in tumult, and therefore for more security to the King, they were confined to several Places by Proclamation, which they disobeying were denounced Rebells, except Angus, who submitted; and now was Iohn Metallan, admitted Counsellor, and hereafter became Chancelor of State.

These affaires took up the summer,Ambassadour from England plea [...]s for the Rebels. and at the fall of the leaf comes secretary Walsingham from Queen Elizabeth, expostulating the Kings receiving of Arran and casting of his nobles, who though thus mutenous as you have heard, were yet justified by her to be defenders of his Crown.

The King told him, He was not to be taught to rule in his own affaires, being as free, as his Princess, and that his promise against Arran was made under his restraint, but now being at liberty himself he doth him but the like justice. Expecting his so much friendship from his Sister the Queen, not to countenance his subjects in Rebellion.

The Ambassadour replyed that his Mistress medl [...]d not, but for his good, and complains that one Holt an English Iesuite and plotter in Throgmortons treason, should be imprisoned by the King, and yet permitted to escape by means of the French, and not rather sent to the Queen; he was answered that Archibald Dowglas guilty of his fathers murther and in England, was not rendered to him, as was desired. Though in truth, Holt got loose without leave. And so the discourse ended in peace.

And in November Lodawick eldest sonn to the late Duke of Lenox, The late D of Lenox children prefe [...]'d. from France at 14 years of age (the King having sent for his Brethren before) Investing him with his fathers honnors and lands, and the Earl Montross to be his Trustee. Some years after came over his sisters, Henrieta married to the Earl of Huntley; Mary to the Earl of Mar; the third avowed her self a Virgin to the Cloister. A younger sonne remained in France untill the King came into England, where he was advanced to great honors. Thus did a gracious King for a distressed family.

The former Declaration against the mutenous Lords,factious Lords submit. could not deter them from conventions, pretending the time too short, which was limitted for their submission unto confinement. And [Page] therefore in an Assembly of the Peers the King renews his offer of pardon to such as would confesse their foule act at Ruthen, and submit to conforme themselves accordingly. The Earl Rothess protests his subscription to that fact, was forced upon him, and repents to mercy, from whose example the rest followed, and the faction to fall asunder. They had pardon and leave to depart some into Ireland, others to France. Amongst whom was Gowry who yet delayed his journey, whilst he fell into new practises, which brought him to his death.

No wonder, to finde the MinisteryThe Ministers meddle. much concerned in their Sermons to justifie, one or other of these Revolters, and the fact of Ruthen, necessary and lawful. Andrew Melvil Melvils ill manners. affirming to the Council, That the Presbytery only had power and authority to judge and censure the Pulpit, and not the King, nor his Council. In primâ instantià, to meddle therewith though they should be treasonable. Telling the King to his face, That he perverted the laws of God and man. Upon which he was charged to enter his person in Blackness forthwith, but he turn'd back, fled to Barwick that night; and alwaies after the Ministery complaining, That the light of of the Countrey for learning, and the only man to resist the enemies of Religion was exiled, and compell'd for his life to quit the Kingdome. And though the King descended to satisfie the people by Proclamation therein, yet it caused a murmuring, and encouraged Gowry, to expect Mars and Glammins returne out of Ireland to joyne in Armes, for Reformation of abuses in Church and State, for preservation of the King and Kingdome. The wonted old pretence of all Rebells.

Gowry to colour his intended treason from suspition,Gowry imprisoned, comes to Dundee, and there presseth a ship for his voyage. But the King quickly advised, sent Collonel Stewart Captain, of the Guard to seize him, who with others made some resistance, but the Town concurring with the Captain he was taken and conveyed to Edenburgh under costody of Arran. Within two daies after Angus and Mar surprise the Castle of Sterlin, but hearing of the Kings march, with formidable forces, they fly into England. Gowries confession under his hand sets down their practises thus,His confession. That himself perceaving the Kings favour declining and his estate aimed at by power of his enemies, he was forced to seek his own relief by concurring with other Nobles in the like Case, by the means of James Erskin, who travelled therein, and assured me of their Return to Sterlin, where we concluded, That at home it was expected, that all those who subscribed the bond in the first alteration would join with us; and besides them, the Earls Marshal, and Bothwel, the Lord Lindsey, and others of the West; From England we expected supply, and that the Queen would intercede for restitution of the Hamiltons.

[Page] At his comming to Sterlin he writ to the King, thus;Anno 1584.

Please your Majesty, It is neither diffidence nor despair in your Higness favour and clemency towards me, nor any desire I have of life,Petition. that moves me to require some short audience of your Majesty: But there is a purpose of such weighty importance, which is needfull to be imparted to your Highness, that might have endangered the Lifes and Estates of your Mother and your Self, if I had not stayed and impeded the same, the relation whereof concerns you more than the lives of 500. such as my self, wherein I am assured of your Majesties gratious answer.

The matter is not the concealing of a Treason, but the revealing of a benefit, April 1584.

His Petition is denyed, and the same brought in evidence at his Tryal,Arraignment. being in May indicted of four points.

1. That in February last David Hume (Mars Man) came at night to him at Perth, communicating the surprizing of Perth and Sterlin, and so concealing and consenting to Treason.

2. The like he conferred with James Arskin a Trafficker from Mar, Angus, and others.

3. That being in Dundee, and charged by his Majesties command to render himself to the Lord Petten Weym Chancellour, and Captain of the Kings Guard, he did notwithstanding oppose him with Men and Arms, convoking aid of the people to assist him in his Treason.

4. That being obliged to maintain his Majesties, Life, Honour, and Crown, and having Intelligience that concerned the life and estate of the King and the Queen his Mother, he treasonably concealed the same.

He excepts against Sir Iohn Gourdon, His excep [...] ons. who sat chief Justice, for some enmity betwixt Gartland (his Kinsman) and him. But this exception was soon refelled, being only affinitas affinitatis.

Then, that the Nobleme [...] that examined him, promised that his confessions to them, should not be urged against him.

But it was answered, That their words could not warrant him.

He stood upon fourty daies time to answer for Treason.

He was told, that the King might arrest at his own pleasure.

To the last point of Indictment, That what he offered to reveal to the King was not of Treason.

But he was answered, that the concealing might tend to the Kings destruction.

The Indictment was found, the Jury were eight Earls, and [Page] eight Lords, and his Sentence as in Treason, and so in the evening was only beheaded.

He had been of good Fame and Honour in Court, accounted wise,Cond [...]m [...]ed and executed. yet he dealt in Witch-craft for revealing the future state of things, though for the general misopinion I find of the Presbyters against Judicial Astronomy,His Character we may conceive him no otherwise liable to their idle censure therein. Nor was he accused thereof in his Tryal, nor did repent of it at his death; yet is acknowledged to take it with peace and patience in contempt of the World, and assurance of Gods mercy. His Death shewed the way to Archibald Dowglas and Iohn Forbess, executed after him, the rest of the Conspiracy had Banishment or Pardon. Some Ministers for medling fled to England. The Ministers had been nibbling at these treasonable Baits, and Polwart, Galloway, and Carmichel, not compeering, were denounced Rebells, and fled into England.

And in this Parliament in May, the Attempt of Ruthen, was ratified, the Kings authority over all persons confirmed, the declining his Majestyes Iudgement and the Councils to be Treason,Declarations. the impugning of the authority of the three Estates, or procuring their diminution to be Treason, all Iurisdictions and Iudicatures spiritual or Temporal, not approved by the three Estates, to be discharged.

And an Ordinance made, That none should presume, privately [...] publickly, in Sermons, Declarations or Conference to utter Speeches to the reproach of the King, his Parents and Progenitors, or to meddle with the Affairs of State under grievous [...].

Now was the Ministers Spirits on fire, that they were not first heard, and Lindsey, was committed, Lawson and Balcanqual flyes into England, so did Poul, who impudently protested against the Parliaments Ordinance, and were all accounted Rebells.

Hereupon the King declares his Reasons to curb the Ministers. and Acts of State.

First their allowance of the Fact at Ruthen. Melvils Declining the King and Council, The Fast kept when the Ambassadours were to be feasted, and other general Fasts through the Realm without the Kings Authority; usurping Ecclesiastick Iurisdictions. Alterations of the Lawes at their pleasure and a number of such abuses.

To these they impudently replyed in Pamphlets,They reply with Letters to Edenburgh Libells, and [...] pens against the Court. And Letters from those Fugitives to the Ministry and Session of the Church and Council of [...] Town, Excusing their Absence, for resisting the wicked Ordinance, and not submitting to the Tyrannical Regiment of Bishops, whom they st [...]led Libertines, Belly-Gods, Infamous, That after [Page] their zealous wrestling with God, they had revelation to depart, and hoped after destruction of the Antichristian Prelates, to return home to their several flocks in Peace.

But by the Kings direction, this insolent Letter was replyed unto by the Session; A [...]d are sharply [...]. wherein after the just confutation of their abuses on the King and State, They discharge themselves of being their flock, and of they their Pastors; and thank God, the Revealer of secrets, that made them manifest their own shame, and relieved them from such wolves in shew of Pastors, and being assured that his Majesty will furnish them with more quiet [...]r Ministers, they commit the others to Gods mercy, and to repent for their former offences.

This letter subscribed and sent to England, was copied out and divulged to their eternal condemnation, and out of regret of the guilt thereof, afterwards, Lawson died with grief at London.

And at home occasioned others, to follow per force, many imprisoned, some executed for meddling with State-matters, Subscriptions and Sermons so treasonable, although the Kings mercy endeavoured to reclaim them, such were their insolencies, that sundry of them suffered for example to others conformity.

These troubles in Scotland brought disadvantage to the poor distressed Queen Mary, Design [...] in England for Queen Mary. for whose relief, some practises were set on foot in England, by Throgmorton, Lord Paget, and others, the Earls of Northumberland and Arundel, the Howards also (rather suspected out of their general profession of Papistry and affection to Queen Mary) and also by Morgan and others in France, and all for her; As more particular by Mendoza the Spanish Ambassadour in England; who being discovered, stole away secretly to Paris, being charged with Throgmortons Plot, to bring in forein Power, for which he was hanged. And Mendoza as boldly recharged this State with practices against his Master, for at this time England countenanced, the Netherlands, the Duke of A [...]joy, and Don Antonio the Portugall, and the Ambassadour of Navarr now in England; and all these against Spain.

But to colour these to excuse this State, and to complain of the Ambassadour,Wade an Envoy to Spain. Wade, Clark of the Council, posts into Spain, whom that King refers to his Council, without vouch [...]a [...]ing to see him; and not being heard at all, returnes home again. And by some papers of Creighton a Scotish Jesuite intercepted, and discovering fresh plots of invasion by the Pope, Spain, and the Guis [...]s, the State of England began more narrowly to look about, and to begin with the Queen of Scots miserable Tragedy, herein Leicester and other Lords associate by oath to persecute to the death the obstacles of Queen Elizabeths peace and safety.

[Page] Mary fearing the effects,Anno 1585. made the most humble and satisfactory propositions and concessions to what Queen Elizabeth could possibly urge, and to which she (indeed) inclined; but the Scots opposed,Mary propose [...] condition [...] The Kirk disquiet. especially to hear of her return home.

And to assist the hight of evils, the Presbyters in Scotland are alwaies at hand, railing at her and the King in the Pulpits, and being summoned to answer their contempts, absolutely refuse, saying, That Ecclesiastick persons were exempt the Kings authority. Althought to suppresse their insolencie (very lately, A Parliament. even this year, and last Assembly of States) it was enacted, The Kings authority over all persons Ecclesiastick and Layick,The Kings s [...] premacy and other Lawes confirmed. and confirmed for ever. Their Assemblies, as well general as particular, were condemned, as arrogating boundlesse authority, when they list to meet, and to prescribe lawes, even to the King and Kingdome. And here the popular equality of Ministers were abrogate, and the dignity of Bishops restored, whose vocations the Presbyters had condemned as Antichristian. The scandalous books of Buchanans Chronicles, and his Dialogue De jure regni apud Scotos, and other such were condemned.

So you see in this Parliament, the King had Royally and Religiously confirmed the Articles of true Religion, and had united to his Crown the supream Authority Ecclesiastick and Civil, heretofore usurped by Papists, and lately by Prebyters. Hereupon they declare the King inclin'd to Popery, and nothing to be left of ancient from but the shadow,Ministers fly into England. and not being suffered to vent their spleen, they fly into England under pretence of persecution.

Yet the King delt with them by hopes and fear. Appoints their appearance in November from all parts;Presbyters equivocation. And were then pressed to subscribe obedience to their ordinary. To obey and acknowledge Bish. according to the Word of God, which words they construed to be a restriction or limitation; for say they, The Word of God commands no obedience, Thus either deceived or deceiving, to redeem their ease with yeilding, cover it with equivocation; some subscribed▪ others refused, preaching against them. And evermore Praying for the banished rebellious Lords as the best Subjects who fled from [...]yranny. Amongst sundry of such men that suffered trial, and others executed. Daglith the chief Minister of St. Cuthberts upon that score,Divers executed for Conspiracies. and for corresponding by letters with Walter Balcanqual he was sentenced for Treason, but upon his humble supplication, was pardoned. David Hume and his brother executed, and indeed divers grand designes of Treason put the State to necessary jealousies and fears. Robert Hamilton accuses Douglas of Mains and Iohn Cunningham of Drumhosel, for conspiring to intercept the King at hunting, and to detain him, till the banished should return and receive him. [Page] Upon which they were found guilty, and executed at Edenburgh.

And indeed Angus and others lay lurking at Barwick, who were removed therefore further into England to New Castle, Angu [...] and other Fugi [...]ives in Engl. lest the Lord Hunsdon Governour of Barwick should suffer suspition in their designes, against all reason of State, which now in England seems to side with King Iames,

And at New Castle they lodge; Iohn and Claud Hamilton retire and take up by the way to settle all here. The Scots Ministers wanderers were all found out, and called to the Juncto, Lowson Carmichel, Erskin. And Mr. Iohn Colvil sent away to Secretary Walsingham at Court. Who led them with hopes that the Queens fleet (usual) rigging was intentional for their interest; this encouraged them, and gave occasion to the Scots Ambassadour to draw up Criminations against them, and so they were removed to Norwich, and after to London; and lodge at Long ditch beyond Tuttle street against the Park-wall,Insol [...]nt. to whom all their Ministers resort (a petty corporation) preach, pray, keep fasting, more than private, and were so bold, as to expect leave, to be allotted a Church of their own as French, Italian, Dutch and other strangers, but the conformity of language with us, and the deformity in discipline, made their request insolent; of which they complain in their preachings, and therefore are all silenced▪ which they say brake the heart of Lawson, their Malapert minister, or rather the letter from Edenburgh aforesaid renouncing him their Pastor, who deserting his cure upon pretence of conscience, not to subscribe, yet takes part the Rebells against his Soveraign. But the particular manner and occasion in Scotland was as followeth.

In civill affairs,Arran made Chancellour his great▪ p [...] [...]r▪ in State. the Earl Arran comanded all; keeper of the Castle, of Sterlin, Edenburgh, and Provost there, lately made Chancelor upon the death of the Ea [...]l Arguile. The office of secretary he conferred upon Iohn Metallan, Lethingtons son, having banished the Abott of Dumferlin▪ who possessed that place, and made himself Lieutenant of Scotland; which greatness, procured private envy of others at Court, ploting his ruine. To conserve him self, he endeavoured to gain Queen Elizabeth to be his friend; and after, he had privately conferred with the Lord Hunsdon Governour of Barwick several legations were sent to England by the Arch-bishop of St. Andrews to confirm the Kings constancy in Religion, much suspected by the cunning informations of the banished abroad, and Kirkmen at home. And after him the Master of Gray came to remand the fugitive Rebells and Lewis Ballandine Justice Clark, was sent to accuse them, as guilty of the conspiracy of Mains and Drumhosell; but indeed Ballendines interest [Page] conniving, his accusations were so slenderly urged; that the very ground was laid, to work their restitution and Arrans destruction; the Queen and her counsel under hand giving ayme to all.

Arran abused with hopes of the Queens friendship,Maxwel misused, continues his greatness into terms of Tyranny; against Athol, Hume and Casils; With frivolous, arbitrary justice. It fell more particular upon the Lord Maxwell for refusing exchange of Lands; the Barrony of Kinnell fallen by attainder, with the Barrony of Mernis and other Lands of Maxwell Heath. And to work out the mischief, the Lord Iohnston is made Provost, thereby being warden of the West Marches, might curb the power of Maxwell, whose right it was to the Provostry, and therefore rayses forces of his friends, and apposed Iohnston; for which and other Insolencies, he is denounced Rebell, takes arms against the L. Johnston. and commission to Iohnston with power to pursue him: Maxwell sends his two brothers to intercept Lamby and Cranston, ere they should joyn head; in the fray the first is killed, the other made prisoner; which encouraged Iohnston to incurse upon Maxwells lands by fire and sword, with great spoyl & booty: the same were answered upon return of the like against Iohnston; who is taken prisoner, and the regret therof, g [...]eived him to his grave, shortly after.

The Quarel now engages the States, who convene, and a subsedy granted of twenty thousand punds (or pounds) levied also to pursue him; but the great plague raging at Edenburgh that expedition for the present, was put off till next year.

In this interim Queen Elizabeths favour declines from Arran; the occasion being a Tumult,Arran declines in Q [...]een El [...] zabeths favo [...]. arising between the Governours of the middle Marches, Sr. Francis Russell, son to the Earl of Bedford, was killed neer the Borders, the deed done by instigation of Arran, and Farneyhast▪ the slayer, was denied to be rendred to the Queens justice▪ yet not much insisted upon at that time, but rather to contract former friendship; by Ambassy of Sr. Edward Wotton, offensive and defensive with the King in cause of Rebellion; for then, came on, the Roman holy League (so stiled) with the Pope, Holy League. Spain and Guisits in France and others in Germany to exterpate the reformed Religion in all Christendome, though principally aimed against Q. Elizabeth, who courts Leagues with other Princes reformed; Sr. Thomas Bodly treats therein, with the King of Denmark; Wootton sent Ambass [...]dour to Scotland. Wotton with Scotland; and at a Parliament in Iuly was by Act confirmed for ever, supposed sufficient, to return Wotton the sooner home. But he had private comands countermines for the fugitive Lords restitution, lately concluded before in England by the late Ambassadors; with whom now he keeps private meetings, gaining time by the occasion of certain Ambassadors from Denmark, who under pretence of remand to the [Page] Isles of Orknay and Shethland, upon the Northern coast of Scotland, alienated of old from that Crown. But in truth, they propounded reasons of State, For a Mariage with the King, and a Sister of Denmark,Propositions of a Mariage with Denmark. happily effected 4 years after.

These Ambassadours taking leave, the rumour grew high of the banished Lords Conspiracy, which causes a Proclamation for a general Convention of all good Subjects, to meet the King at the Castle of Crawford in October, The Lords conspire, to repell the Rebels; which the English Ambassadours craftily prevent, whilest the Lords march apace, and come to rendezvous at Linton in Tweeddale, and there Covenant by Oath, not to separate till they should seize the King, and remove Arran: and thither comes Maxwell, with a thousand Horse and foot, that served heretofore against Iohnston; all the rest making up but so many more; and to be even with the King,and declare. they proclaim also (the old and new Rebels rule) Defence of the truth, the deliverance of the King from evil Counsellors, and add, the Amity with England. Interlacing each line with Odiums against Arran, amongst other charges; That he claimed descent from Duke Mordach (beheaded by King Iames the first, upon that title) which Arran now takes up, to be Heir to the Crown, by the name of Iames seventh. And indeed this was now enforced, and a scandal, which all men [...]nderstood; for, whether he had feigned such a pretence the last year, or others for him had formed it, he was forced to purge himself then in Parliament, by serious Protestation; which truly in pride of heart he did, rather to deceive the World with that folly.

Thus far Wootton plotted with the Revolters agents at Court,Wotton plo [...]s with them and posts home. and being almost discovered by Arran, he departs hastily, without leave, towards Berwick, and after him posts an Express, who overtook him at Anwick; expostulating, Whether His Mistress directed him this mannerly departure? He acknowledged to the Messenger, that he could not grant, that he came away Insalutato hospite, seeing he performed that Office with Heart and Hand; and would ever endeavour, by all possible means, that his suddain departure, should rather help to maintain, than to dissolve the amity betwixt his Soveraign and the King. By the word Hand, he referred to a Letter, which he left for the King, in which he so far complained, that the cause lodged upon Arrans discredit, who (he said) governed all. By which Arran suspected somewhat ami [...]s, and accused the Master Gray for hastening Wotton away.

The Lords Revolters that had intelligence of all,The Lords seize the King at S [...]erlin, & treat. march with speed to Sterlin, and were let in by a back-way at Mid-night. And, whilest Arran was busie with the watch, at the other end, the Town was taken and rifled; Arran and others escaped. The [Page] King inclosed within the Castle, sends out two Counsellors, to tell them, That humble Petitions better became the duly of Subjects Complaints, and private address more fit than to force their Soveraign, which violent forms they would find [...], that should be extorted by force or fear, and he never to want men and means hereafter to undo.

They not as yet let in, were not to learn the art of dissembling, excusing their actions, by their miserable conditions, reduced to this necessity, to seek relief rather for the King than themselves. His honour and safety, highly endangered by evil Counsellors (excepting them that were sent) and labouring these with arguments to intercede for his Majesties grace and favour, and to admit their address to his person.

The King knew their meaning, and intending to say no more than willingly they should hear of, For my self (said the King) I never liked the mans arrogancy (meaning Arran) but I must secure my Servants about me; the quarrels betwixt Crawford and Glammis, Angus and Montross, and Col. Stuart, as ill beloved for serving me.

No sooner said, But they vow, Not to arm for private quarrells of their own, or any others, not minding to mix particulars with the publique.

Upon which, they get in, fall down on their knees to the King, and the Lord Hamilton, being the best in blood, was their spokesman, who only craved mercy.

To whom, My Lord, said the King, I never knew you till now, and I am sorry to see your face in this fault; you have been faithfull to my Mother in my Minority, and, I fear, may suffer more than these.

As for you (angerly browing upon Bothwell,) Francis, what ailed thee that never could be injured?

But—To you all that mean me no mischief, I am pleased to hold out my hand and my heart, carying your selves from henceforth, as dutiful Subjects.

It was no time to do other, and the next day in Council, to confirm by Act, their Pardon, and their Assistants, and so proclaimed. Crawford and Montross▪ delivered up to Hamilton, and Col. Stuart permitted to depart. Arran was gone before, fled to Coil, deprived of all honors, lived from thenceforth privately.

And now new Lords and Laws share old offices. The Guard was given to Glammis, the Castle Dunbritton to Hamilton, Sterlin restored to the Earl Mar, and the Castle of Edenburgh delivered to Sir Iames Hume.

This relation the most certain, though I know it is otherwise reported.

And no wonder to find designs in policy how to cleer these [Page] Lords of former accusations, and confessions; the very Examinants and Deponents must now voluntarily offer new Oaths, to purge them from all Treasonable Attempts. Amongst whom Duntraith now confessed to be suborned to accuse Mains, out of fear to save himself.

Besides these powers that overmastered the Kings party, the want of supply from Edenburgh lost the Court; the raging Plague swept away twenty thousand persons, and that City quite forsaken. He is forced now to yield to their Domination; this Success imboldens the disloyal Ministers to return home also, from all parts, insupportable insolent. One of them (Gibson) to the Kings face, terms him Ieroboam, a Persecutor; threatens him, That if he went on in the former way, he should be the last of his race.

And before the King and Council, he and Watson (such another) impudently maintain the same and more to their teeth, which no Catiline could have done more treasonable.

Then their Synod, being assisted by a number of the Laicks, convene the Bishops; Saint Andrews was compeered before them, upon accusation of Andrew Melvil, in malice and private revenge, but his pretence was that the Bishop devised and penned former Acts against the Presbytery; the Bishop protests against their Judicature, and disputes his Innocency from any evil therein, and to avoid their censures, appeals to the King and Estates, and they therefore in fear what to do, a young Fellow, Andrew Hunter, professes to be armed by the Spirit, and so usurping the Chair, he pronounced Sentence against him. Cunningham the Bishops man, did the like, the next day, against Melvil.

These and other such disorders involves the King and Estates what to do with them, when the Secretary of State perceiving their vexations, advises the King to leave the Ministery to their own courses; That in a short time, he should see them so intollerable, as the people would chase them out of the Nation. True (said the King) if I wer [...] careless to undo the Church and Religion, it were the best Counsel, but to preserve both I must suppress disorders, lest Religion be despised.

And therefore, as these insolencies gave the King occasion wisely to foresee the dangerous events, if not nipt in the Bud, So ex malis Moribus, bonae leges nascuntur, for the State publish these Articles.

That all Preachers should obey the King.

Not to pretend privilege in their allegiance.

Not to meddle in State matters.

Not to revile his Majesty.

Not to draw the people from obedience.

And being questioned, not to allege inspiration of the Spirit.

[Page] Nor to serve themselves with colour of conscience, &c.

It is strange to observe, both before, and then, and sithence, even to these our last daies (as were by Wisemen alwaies foretold from the beginning) how this Gangreen spread, and that we are now wearied, as well as the Reader, with these relations. Let me onely observe further the Scots Acts and Ordinances concerning their Episcopacy, and let any Historian tell me, when and how they started into such a sincere Reformation, as to have no Bishops at all, as many would pretend.

For first,1567. Parl. cap. 2 reforming from Popery in 1567. That no Bishop, nor other Prelate should use any Iurisdiction in time comming by the Bishop of Romes authority (but it appears by all subsequent Acts, That Arch-Bishops and Bishops were not only allowed in their Kirk, but also had Iurisdiction and authority to govern the same).

That Arch-Bishops and Bishops have the Authority,1572. Acts 46. and are ordained to convene and deprive all Ministers inferiour, who shall not subscribe the Articles of Religion and recognoscing of the King and his Authority.

That Arch-Bishops and Bishops have authority to assign Ministers Glebes.48.

That they shall nominate and appoint Visitations,54. &c. and persons in every Parochin for settling Taxation for upholding Kirks, &c.1573. Acts 55.

That they shall direct charges how the Minister of the Parochin shall proceed to excommunications.

That they shall try the rent of Hospitals,1578. Acts 63. and call for the foundations thereof.

The Iurisdiction of the Kirk is declared to stand in preaching the Word of Iesus Christ,1579. Acts 69. correction of manners, and administration of Sacraments.

And no other Authority allowed; but Arch-Bishops and Bishops intended to continue in Authority, as is cleer by these Acts following.

First, All persons returning from forein Travails are within twenty daies to pass to the Bishop, Super-intendent, Commissioner of the Kirk,Acts 71. to give a Confession of their faith.

That none presume to impugn the Dignity and Authority of the three Estates,1584. Acts 130. or to seek or procure the innovation or diminution of their power and authority, or any of them in time, coming under pain of Treason.

That Bishops are to try and judge Ministers guilty of crimes, meriting deprivation.132.

That no Ministers exercise any other Office beside their▪ Calling,133. and to be adjudged by their Ordinaries of Bishops.

All Acts whatever heretofore,1587. Acts 23. anent the Kirk of God and Religion now professed are ratified.

[Page] That the three Estates (especially considering the persons exercising the offices,Anno 1586. titles and dignities of Prelates, which persons have ever represented one of the Estates, &c.) Therefore declare that the Kirk in Scotland is the true and holy Kirk,1597. Acts 231. and that such Ministers as the King shall provide to the Dignity of a Bishop shall have vote in Parliament, as any Ecclesiastical Prelate ever had by-gon.

And null all manner of Acts made in prejudice of Bishops,1606. Act. 2. Honours, Dignities, &c. competitent to them or their estate since the reformation of Religion.

The same revived.6.

Ordains Arch-bishops and Bishops to be elected by their Chapters,1617. Act. 1. and consecrate by the Order accustomed.

And yet we must confess, they were oftentimes striking at the root and branch of Bishops, as others of them did against the Power and Majesty of Princes; for Buchanan terms the phraises of Majesty, Buchanan. See his de ju [...]egni Pag. 50 usque 57. Highness, Excellency, Solaecismos et Barbarismos aulicos.

Jeering at the outward State of Princes, comparing them to childrens Puppets, garishly attired. That a good Prince should be defended with innocency, Non superbo speculatorum et caetu sericatisque nebulonibus stipatus.

Another of theirs Davison, Davison. his Pamphlet printed in those times forced through with base invectives, both against the Government of Scotland and England, with most dangerous insinuations to Rebellion.

The Genevian Ministers and their Tenents also were dispersed in England, wholly into such Arguments. Out of two more pestilent sundry seditious positions may be collected, Goodman and another Author stiled True Obedience; or rather perfect rebellion.

It may be true,The [...] trul [...] stated. tis no Treason to resist the Soveraign for defence of Religion, nor no treasonable assertion, That a lawful Prince may be deposed in case of revolt from God, and these are the proposition of all Christian Professors, but these Men following their own deceiptful wiles, and irregular opinions, adjudged that to be errour, or idolatry, which perhaps may not be so, and may traduce goodness and virtue by the rule of their own strained conceit, and so differ in the manner and matter, as reason and conscience differ from fury and frenzy.

And yet these their Doctrines Whittingham (afterwards unworthy Dean of Durham) in his preface to Goodmans book,Genevians, Whittingham Goodman, Gilby, Whitehead, Coverdale, saith, that they were approved by the best learned, meaning Calvin, and the rest of the Genevians, Gilby, Coverdale, Whitehead, and others.

But then let me tell them who were the other,Orthodox men. worser learned men (as he will have them) that fled Queen Maries persecution [Page] to Franckford, Zurick and Basill, declining Geneva; those were Scory, Barlow, Cox, Beacon, Bale, Parkhurst, Grindall, Sands, Nowell, Wisdom, and Iewell, and very many more, that maintained the Reformation of King Edwards time; and therefore Knox said,Scory, Barlow Cox, Beacon, Bale, Parkho [...]st, Grindal, Sands, Nowel, Wisdom, Jewel. That the English at Geneva were separated from that superstitious company at Franckford.

Notwithstanding these quarrellers, heretofore (at the first) yet in the beginning of Queen Elizabeths dayes, they pretended to agree in Harmonical Confessions, though in several disciplines, till Cartwright and Travers in his Disciplina Ecclesiastica, makes their own tenents so positive, as that, If every hair of their heads were a life, they would lose them all, to defend their Discipline.

Then came in to their Gang, Udall and Penry, and call that discipline onely, Udal, Penry. pure, perfect, righteous, full of goodness, peace and honor; ordained for the joy and happiness of all Nations. Therein followed them, Martin, and his two sons, and Gilbie; and so like very apt scholars in evil,Martin, Gilby, and others, they out-went their masters to the Devil; for joyning with Copinger, Hackett, and others, they fell into a desperare designe of Treason, See after anno 1591. for which, Hacket was hanged.

At last, increasing in very bold wayes, and desperate tenents, dispersed in Pamphlets, Rithmes and Ballads; It was thought fit to open their eyes and understandings, by some grave, and learned declaration,Learned Hooker. for setling their mad brains, which was effected by that most reverend and learned Divine Hooker, in his Ecclesiast. Policie, which for a long time (during the time of times) silenced all their Railings; Cartwrights, and others, and so satisfied the wiser sort, that the Church of God got quiet from such disturbers, till of late daies.

But to return to our History, In Iune was compleated the League with England, League offensive and defensive England and Scotland. hammered out for defence of both Nations against the Holy League (as the Papists would have it) the Commissioners meeting at Barwick, concluded these Aritcles, upon the former reasons.

1. To joyn and unite in a more strict League than ever had been before.

2. To draw other Princes Reformed into their society.

3. To be offensive and defensive against any Contractors with their enemies.

4. Not to assist any Invader of either Kingdom.

5. That the Scots to assist England against any Invasion with two thousand horse and five thousand foot at the Queens charge from the borders. The Queen the like to Scotland, but with three thousand horse, and six thousand foot.

[Page] 6. If the North of England, there the Scots to assist with all their force for thirty dayes (the usual time of attending their own King.)

7. The King not to suffer Scots to be transported into Ireland, but by leave of the Queen.

8. Not to countenance either Rebels or Revolters.

9. That all the controversies of the Borderers be civilly reconciled.

10. Neither Princes to enter League with any other without the consent of both.

11. All by-gone Treaties of either, with other Princes, shall stand in full force, the cause of Religion excepted.

12. These Articles to be confirmed by Oath, and Hands, and Seals.

13. Lastly, That the King, at twenty five yeers old, shall confirm these, by the States of Scotland, as the Queen will then do by her Parliament of England.

This was the begining of Q. Eliz. design,Against the holy League of Papists. which she presumed would in time be considerable, with other reformed States confederate; though in earnest; the whole intention of the Papists, had reference to the Church of England, the absolute orthodox Conserver of the true ancient Apostolick faith, though by observation of succeeding times in some relations, it appears of late wonderfully indangered. But, besides that of Religion, and strengthening her affairs in policie with other Princes, upon that score, she had a further a [...]m, to confirm amity with the King whom she was assured forthwith, mightily to offend, and to endanger her safety and honour with all the Christian world.

For now (with leave of the Reader) having been led somewhat too long in the Church affairs;Return to Qu [...]aries story. let us remind the poor Captive Queen Mary, upon whom all the former suspitions reflected, and so h [...]stened to her ruin; for Queen Elizabeth casting about to make things safer, than fast, resolved upon the way, most desperate, which if it took not well, was yet the onely way, by taking Mary out of the way, and so give end to Elizabeths jealousies; to secure her Person from Treasons; to joynt her power now divided; and to settle her people from imbroiles and divi [...]ons.—But soft and fair, the wily wits of Walsingham and Burleigh, must be busied about it.

For now she is removed from her fifteen yeers custody,Remo [...] in [...]o custody [...]o Pawlet. under the good Earl of Shrewsbury, unto Sir Amias Pawlet, and Sir Drew Drury, on purpose to put her upon extremity of redress against their extream imprisoning. And so she endeavors, and deals with the Pope and Spain, by Englefeild, to hasten their designs, however; which designs indeed, is so peeced and patcht together, [Page] by those that writ of them, as if each mans fancy, in reference to the publick, must needs take effect of Rebellious interpretation. And what ere was whispered in that sence, was sure to be put upon the poor Queens account, by which she smarted; for in this Parliament of England, the former Association of the Lords was confirmed by both Houses, and strict Acts against Catholicks and abetters in Treason, [...]rdundel [...]. which occasioned Philip Howard Earl of Arundel, eldest son of the late Duke of Norfolk, (three yeers since restored in blood) to complain of his enemies, pursuing him to the death, as others had done to his Great Grandfather condemned, and never came to tryal; his Grandfather beheaded for trifles, and his father likewise for concernments of lesser moment. Himself thus afflicted, endeavoring to retire out of the Kingdom, but was taken and sent to the Tower, where he found Henry Percy Earl of Northumberland (as accessory to Thorgmortons design) who Pistolled himself some dayes after,Northumberland pistols himself. but Arundel was onely fined in Star-Chamber.

The Catholicks desparate to do something,Babingtons Treason. were animated thereto by Ballard a Priest, who from hence goes into France, and there layes his designs with the Old Plotters, Pope, Guises, the Spaniard and Parma to invade England, and free Queen Mary; and returning home, confederates with Babington and six more principal gentlemen, to kill Queen Elizabeth. All which their plottings were daily discovered to Secretary Walsingham, by one Pooley their companion;Pooley. and so confident were they of success, that Babington had his own picture, and those about him, all to the life, with this verse circumscribed, ‘Hi mihi sunt comites, quos ipsa pericula ducunt.’

But this verse too plain, they inserted in the place, ‘Quorsum haec, aliò properantibus?’

The Queen being shewed these faces knew [...]one but Barnwell.

Babington to hasten this design, resolves to go over himself. And by Pooley's means insinuates with Walsingham, and ingages to discover Fugitives, if he might be trusted with the Queens License, which was promised to him, but delayed, whilst all was discovered to Walsingham (by one Gifford a Priest) whom he recommended unto Amias Pawlet to suffer his servants to be corrupted by him,Be [...]ayed by Gifford a Priest. and so to intrap the Queen his Prisoner; but though Pawlet refused to conspire with his servants,Gifford a false Priest. yet he permitted one that depended on the necessary service of his Family, a Baker, to be bribed; and at a hole in the wall, to give [Page] out and take in letters, between the Queen and all the confederates, which were (as sure) to be opened and read by Walsingham, who got the Keys of the Ciphers, and had answe [...]s counterfeited, to involve whom he pleased to suspect, in the Plot. At last (the time being ripe for Execution) they were proclaimed Traytors, Traytors all execu [...]ed. and at several places seized, examined, and confessing to every particular, they were executed as Traytors, seven of them most cruelly; the other seven with more mercy.

The Queen of Scots was so narrowly watched, that she knew nothing of the discovery; no, not when Mr. Gorge was sent to her, to expostulate these plots. She being then on horseback a hunting, was not suffered to return; but in shew of honour▪ was led to several Gentlemens houses, in the mean time, that her servants and her Secretaries are severed from Communication, her Cabinet and Desks, and Copies of Letters, with sixty several Ciphers discovering all, were seized and sent to the Councel.

Now is Gifford sent by Walsingham into France, Gifford sent [...]nto France, and given out as banished; who leaves a Paper indented with the French Ambassadour▪ In charge, not to deliver any letters from the Queen of Scots, or from the fugitives, that came to his hands and to be sent into France, but to such onely, that brought the counterpain of the Indented Paper,and there impoisoned. which he secretly sent to Walsingham. And so dep [...]ted into France, where soon he died; for, having done the main work, ere he went over, was for his reward discovered to be a counter [...]eit (even by slight of hand and Walsinghams contrivement) and so had [...]auce to his knavish face, that pined him away by inches.

In this condition was the poor imprisoned Queen at Fotherringhan Castle in Northampton-shire;Q [...]. of S [...]ots c [...]mes to her Tryal. when the Councel were as busie what to do with her. At last, they concluded to proceed upon the Act of 27. Eliz. made the last yeer, against Plotters or contrivers of the Queens death, as before said.

To which purpose a Commission under the great seal issued out, impowring twenty four Noblemen and others therein, who came to the Castle the 11▪ of October, to try and censure her.

Against which she excepted, As being her self a free Princess, and not liable to tryall for life; Her ignorance of the Laws of England, and without Council; Her papers and writings seized; and so utterly refuses to be tryed. Yet being over-born, and convinced with many strong arguments of Law and Reason, she submits.

The manner of her Tryal was thus.The manner. A chair of Estate was set as for the Q. of England, under a canopy at the upper end of the Presence Chamber. B [...]neath, against it, was placed a Chair for the Queen of [Page] Scots; close to the Walls on both sides of the Cloth of Estate, Seats were made for the Lords, Chancellour, Treasurer, the Earls of Oxford, Kent, Derby, Worcester, Rutland, Cumberland, Warwick, Pembroke, Lincoln, and Viscount Mountacute. On the other side, the Lords Abergavenny, Zouch, Morley, Stafford, Grey, Lumley, Sturton, Sands, Wentworth, Mordant, Saint John, Compton, Chenos. Next to these the Knights, Privy Counsellours, Sir James Croft, Sir Christopher Hatton, Sir Francis Walsingham, Sir Ralph Sadler, Sir Walter Mildmay, and Sir Amias Paulet. Forward before the Earls, sate the two Chief Iustices, the Chief Baron of the Exchequer; And on the other side the other two Iustices, Delt and Ford Doctors of the Civil Law. At a Table in the midst, Popham Attourney General, Egerton Solicitor, Gawdy Serjeant at Law, the Clerk of the Crown, and two Notaries.

The Prisoner being set, L. Chancello [...]rs Speech. Bromley Lord Chancellour turning to her, said, The most illustrious Queen of England, being certified, to her great grief, that you plotted hers and the Kingdom of Englands ruine, and the overthrow of Religion established; Out of duty to God, her Self and People, and no malice or ill meaning, hath authorized these Commissioners to hear what can be laid to your charge, and your Answer, to defend your own innocency.

She rising up said, Her Answer. She came into England to implore aid, and was promised it, but ever since kept Prisoner. That she is not the Queens subject, but a free and absolut [...] [...]rincess, and cannot be compelled to appear before Delegates or any other Iudg, for any cause whatsoever, but before God alone the supreme Iudge of all; which otherwise were der [...]gatory to her own Princely Majesty, to her Son the King of Scots, her Successors, and all other absolute Princes: Nevertheless she did present her self to refute all Crimes that could be charged upon her.

The Chancellour replied, Chancellou [...]s Reply. that her Protestation was vain; for whosoever offends the [...]aws of England, in England must be subject to the same, examined and judged; and therefore not to be admitted. Yet the Delegates commanded her Protestation and his Answer to be registred.

The Patent, and late newest Statute made a Law was read and opened: to which she answered, that it was purposely made to entrap her.

Gawdy averred, Gawdy. that she had transgressed every part and parcel of that Law: with a Narration of Babingtons Treason, to which she was accused, as conspiring, abetting, assenting to effect it.

She denies all, Queen. never to have received Letters from him, nor written to him, she knew him not, and requires Proofs of her Hand by any Subscriptions or Letters, nay, she never heard tell of any such▪ Treason; Ballard she knew not, onely, she understood, that the Catholicks were grievously used, and therefore she writ to the Queen for some pity [Page] upon them. She confessed those Letters produced from many whom she knew not, that profered their endeavours for her enlargement, but she excited none to any wicked Design, and being a Prisoner she could not hinder their Attempts.

Then was Babingtons Letters read, his Confessions and Correspondencies with her, wherein the whole Conspiracy was expressed.

She answered, that Babington might write them, but prove any receipt of them; if Babington or any other affirm so much, I say plainly, They lie. A Packet of Letters detained a whole year came to my hand, but I know not who sent [...]t: But Babingtons confession accused her therein.

She blamed Sir Trancis Walsingham for his cunning plottings to entrap her, with counterfeiting Letters and Cyphers▪ which he lamely excused, and put all upon policy of State.

This held out the Fore-noon.

After Dinner, was produced Charls Pagets Letter, and Curls (one of her Servants) confession that she received it; touching conference with Ballard and Mendoza for invading England, and setting her free.

She acknowledged that a Priest told her, Queen. that unless she interposed, her Se [...]nd Son would be excluded from inheritance to this Crown, for that the King of Spain clamed a Right, and would give place to none, except to her self.

It was insisted upon the Letters of Nave and Curl.

She answered, Curl was an honest man,Que [...]n. but no sufficient Witness, and Nave was sometime Secretary to the Cardinal of Lorain, and commended to her by the King of France, and might be drawn by hope, fear, and reward, to bear false witness, and had a hand over Curl; either of them might insert into Letters more than she dictated, oft times she not examining them; before she signed▪ that all Princes may this way fall into mischief, if their Servants and Secretaries may falsly accuse them; I desire their presence face to face, to reply to my Exceptions.

The TreasurerTreasurer.objected, that she purposed to send her Son into Spain, and to transfer her Right and Title to England upon that King.

She answered, Queen. that she had no Kingdom to bestow; however, what was her own, she might dispose as she pleased, and not render accompt to any.

It was urged her Assistance and Pension to Morgan, who sent Parry into England, to assassinate the Queen.

She said, Queen. Morgan for her sake, had lost his Estate, and therefore she was obliged in honour to relieve him; nor was she bound to revenge an injury done to the Queen by a Friend that had deserved well of her; yet that she did always deterr him from any bloudy Enterprizes; [Page] However Pensions were allowed out of England to Sir Patrick Grey and other Scots my adversaries, and to my Son also.

The heads of her several Letters to Paget, Inglefield, and Mendoza were read; Queen. She said, they made nothing to the Queens destruction, but if any forein Prince would endeavour her enlargment, it ought not be a crime in them or her, having often intimated her self, to the Queen, that she would endeavour her own freedom.

She complained of her Servants and Secretaries perjury and treachery, and very unfaithfull unto her; that being a distressed Prisoner, and grown in years, there could be no hope to perfect those things which were expected from her, and therefore she was advised to confirm the Succession of England to the King of Spain, or to some English Catholick Nobleman; And said, that a Book was tendered to her for that purpose, which because she not admitting incurred the displeasure of some eminent persons, for being no hope from England, she was to entertain forein help.

She desired to be heard in a full Parliament, or before the Queen and her Council.

And now rising out of her Chair in great Majesty and confidence, she exchanged some words with Burghley, Hatton, Walsingham and Warwick apart. And so the meeting again was prorogued till the 25. day of October next, at the [...]-chamber at Westminster, before all the Commissioners; where Nave and Curl constantly affirmed, viva voce, all those particulars which concerned them to aver, and which she had denied.

So then Sentence was pronounced against her, and ratified under their hands and seals, in these words recorded.

By their unanimous consent at the Day and Place abovesaid; Sentence against the Qu. of Scots▪ they do pronounce and declare this judicial Verdict, and say, That after the end of the said Parliament (specified in the Commission) viz. after the first of June in the seven and twentieth Year of the Queen, divers matters were compassed and imagined in England by Anthony Babington and others, with the privity of Mary Queen of Scots, pretending Title to the Crown of England, tending to the hurt, death, and destruction of the Royal Person of our said Sovereign Lady the Queen. And furthermore, that after the said Day and Year, and before the Date of our Commission, the said Mary hath compassed and imagined in this Kingdom of England divers matters tending to the hurt, death, and destruction of the Royal Person of our said Sovereign, against the form of the Statute specified in the said Commission.

All the Commissioners declaring that this Sentence did no way derogate to Iames King of Scots in right or honour, but that he continued in the same right and honour, as if that Sentence had never been passed.

This Sentence (you see) depended upon Nave and Curl, Opinions of her Sentence. and [Page] not face to face, according to the first Statute 13. Elizabeth; divers opinions passed, whether credulous or incompetent. Nave's Apology to King Iames afterwards 1605. purges him with deep Protestations, neither Author nor Abetter, nor remiss in his duty by negligence, or otherwise; but opposed the heads of her Accusation to the death. But this appears not by Records; his guilt shewed somewhat that needed an apology.

Not many days after a Parliament is called,A d [...]legate Parliam [...]nt require Execution. the which was begun by authority from the Queen, derived to the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Lord Treasurer, and the Earl of Derby, and the same it seems not without former Presidents. A kinde of modesty perhaps, that if a Virgin Queen must look upon her horrid act, it must be seen through her fingers, and Maries Sentence accompanied with the Proscriptions of the Lord Paget, Inglefield, Throgmorton, Babington, Salisbury, Iones, Tichburn, Tilves, and others, confirmed; and their Goods and Estates confiscate. And the House of Peers by the Chancellor petitioned the Queen, that the Sentence might be promulgated, and besought her Majesty for safety of her Person and Kingdoms to execute justice on the Queen of Scots.

The Queen was not to be [...]aught her Answer. Q. Elizabeth [...] cunning reply. She acknowledged Gods protection, and their love and circumspection, for preservation of Her and her People, against the many and mighty Plots of Hers and their Enemies. How sorry she was, that the Scots Queen, notwithstanding her forewarnings, should be thus entangled and guilty; whom (she protests) as a Princess, as her Kinswoman and Sister, she had reluctancy to spare, and to forgive, were not the security of her People involved; for, their Peace she values before her own life. Concludes, her thanks for their care and advice. But in a cause of so great consequence, she will not be rash, but consider.

Twelve days after, she desires the Parliament to consult some other way of safety, and to spare the Queen of Scots; but they answer with no other satisfaction. To which the Queen in an excellent method requests them to be answered, without an Answer. For if I should say, (said she) I will not do what you desire, I shall then say what I do not think; and if I shall say, I will do it, I may precipitate my self to danger, whom, I know, you wish to be conserved.

Then was Queen Maries Sentence proclamed throughout London,Sentence proclamed. and all the Kingdom, which she apprehends chearfully and resolute, and writes to the Queen, for her Body to be allowed Christian [...]urial in France, where her Mothers rested, since violence was offered to the Ashes of her forefathers by the Puritans in Scotland; nor could she hope for burial with the Kings of England; that she might take her Death not in secret, but where her Servants and Friends could give good testimony thereof.

[Page] K. Iames her Son in sad perplexity for his Mother, sends William Keith of his Bed-chamber with Letters to Q. Elizabeth; though it seemed strange to him, that the Nobility and Counsellours of England should take upon them to sentence a Queen of Scotland, King Jame [...] perplexed [...]ends Keith to Q [...]. Eliz▪ and one descended of the Royal Bloud of England; yet he would think it monstrous justice for her Virgin Majesty to stain her hands with the Bloud and Death of his dear Mother, a Lady of in comparable excellency in the worlds opinion, and of the same Royal condition and Sex with her Self: So, if it should be resolved, desires her to consider, how his Honour stood engaged that was her Son and a King, to suffer his Mother an absolute Princess to be put to an infamous Death.

Keith, With several directions. after some time of delay, urges for an Answer, but finding no hope, he receives other Letters, commanding him to shew the Queen how unjust the Proceedings had been against his Mother, the Laws of God and Nations, for an absolute Prince to be sentenced by Subjects, and she the first Example of profaning Sovereign Diadems, Himself concern'd in Nature and Honour to revenge such indignity; and wills him to labour the delay of her Execution, till he could send Ambassadours of his own into England; for by Letters from Archibald Dowglas his Lieger in England, he found him evil disposed to the business, and therefore resolved to send one more honorable, and of greater trust, in his place.

But Keith doing his duty, The Queens Answer. shewed the Queen his Masters direction, enforcing her into some passion, till Leicester and others calmed her; and then she told him, She would give no Answer in anger, but consider till morning, when she told him, that no haste should be used, if any other should come from the King in reasonable time, [...]roceedings should be staid, and be glad to receive overtures to save the Queens life and assure her own.

The King certified of her passion,O [...]her L [...]tters more c [...]lm, posts other Letters more calm, since his other were construed as threats to her Estates; and therefore he courts her into kindness, protesting that the Rumours spread amongst his Subjects moved them into disquiets and mutiny at the forms of Proceedings again their Queen. That for his part, he could well distinguish any pressure, by the peril of her own life, and so not blaming her directly, prays her to put a kindness upon Him, Her real Friend; desires time till his Overtures be heard, hastily coming by the Master of Gray and Sir Robert Melvil, and Ambass [...] do [...]s. who were to set out on Saturday after, and came to London in eight days.

Queen Elizabeth was better satisfied with these, being frightned before into fear of breach of the late League, and War with her Neighbours, and so gave them speedy Audience.

She told them, how sorry she was, no means could be found to save their Kings Mother, and secure her own life.

[Page] They answer, Their Sovereign to save her life will interpose his credit, his Nobility as [...]ledges, that no Plot or practice should be contrived by her against your Majesty; or otherwise to set her a [...] liberty,Ambassado [...]rs reason with the Queen. and send her into Scotland, and so the better to secure the Queen.

Asking the reason, What should move any man to attempt against her Majesty for Queen Maries sake?

Because (said she) they think Her to succeed me, and she a Papist.

Then (say they) these means being taken away, the Danger apparently ceases, for if her Right in Succession to England shall be made over in our Sovereigns Person, Papists will have no more hope, and this we are sure his Mother will resign to him.

But (replied the Queen) she hath no Right, being declared incapable of Succession.

If so, that she hath no Right (said they) the Papists pretences cease, and so no fear of them to enterprize for her.

But (said she) the Papists allow not our Declaration.

Then let it sink (said they) in our Sovereign, by her Resignation.

Leicester being by, objected, that She being a Prisoner could not [...].

They answered, It being made to her Son, with advice of all her Friends in Europe, in case Queen Elizabeth should miscarry, none would partake with the Mother against her Son; all the Princes her Friends standing engaged for her Resignation, that it should be valid and essential for her Son.

The Queen mis-understanding, was told the Ambassadours meaning, that the King should be in his Mother place.

Is it so, says she? Gods Death, that were to cut mine own throat. He shall never come to that place, and be party with me.

She was told, that coming in his Mothers place through her Death, he would be more party.

Well, (says the Queen) tell your King what I have done for him, to keep the Crown on his Head since he was born; and for my part I shall keep the League betwixt us, which if he break, shall be a double fault: and in passion got away.

Melvil made after, requesting respite of execution for eight days.

Not an hour, said she.

The King by this Conference expects extremity, The King write [...] to Gray. and therefore writes to Gray, Think not to reserve your self any longer, nothing doing good if her life be lost, adie [...] dealing with that State. As you affect my favour, spare no pains, nor plainness. Reade what I writ to Keith, and accordingly conform; and in this your industry, let me reap the fruit of your great Credit there, and Duty here, either now or never. Farewell.

[Page] Leicester took some pains in a tedious Letter to satisfie the Kings importunity, by telling him the common jealousie of all Princes for their own security, especially by such persons, as being within a Kingdom, [...]nd Leicester to the King. and claiming Title to that Crown, should conspi [...]e with Traitors to kill the Queen; comforting the King (as well as he could) how more dangerous Queen Elizabeths Death would be, than his Mothers liberty would advantage; concluding with grave advice, not to quarrel the breach of amity, and their last League of firm friendship.

And to boot,So does Walsingham to the Lord Thirlstan. Walsingham writes to the Secretary of Scotland, the Lord Thirlstan, (with whom he kept private intelligence) as a wonder, the Kings earnest desire to save his Mother, seeing all the Papists in Europe affecting the change of Religion in both Realms, built their hopes altogether upon Her, who in passion to Papistry, had transferr'd her Right to both Crowns, unto the King of Spain▪ in case the King her Son should persist in his Profession.

And true it was,False Tale [...]. that such tricks were rumored, to divert the King from constancy in Religion; but never so done by her; if you will credit her Declaration at her Death: though I know (for I have seen it) a Popish Abbot in the life of Cardinal Laurence, at that time Protector of the Scots Nation, affirmeth, the said Translation of these Realms to be in his hands, and delivered to him by Court Olivarez the Spanish Ambassadour at Rome; but such forged Tales and Titles might have served the turn, if the Enterprize of Eighty Eight had taken effect against England.

Thus the King leaving no means possible unattempted for a prudent and pious King,Scotland in disorder. but to to none effect; the State of Scotland then in a miserable distraction, made so, partly in policy from England, and the most powerfull Faction solliciting Queen Elizabeth for their Queens Execution; insomuch that it was objected, (as Pilate said) shall I kill your Queen?

And therefore now the King commanded the Ministers and Kirk in Scotland to commend her cause to God in their publick Prayers, The Ministers refuse to pray for their Qu. which by no means their charity could afford, but absolutely refused; then he appoints a solemn Day of Fasting and Prayer, with Supplications to God for Her, commanding the Bishop of Saint Andrews to pray and preach; against whom the Ministers opposed, and in presence of the King put up in the Pulpit a young Fellow Iohn Cooper, Cooper a saucy Minister. not entered into the Function, to whom the King cried out, Master Iohn, that place was designed for another, yet since you are there, Do your Duty, and obey the Charge, to pray for my Mother.

He replied, To do no otherwise than as the Spirit should direct him.

[Page] Whereupon, the Captain of the Kings Guard pulled him down, and the Bishop performed the Office, most grave and learned.

For this insolency, Cooper was called to accompt, accompanied with Balcanquall and Watson, Is committed who were discharged their Ministery, and Cooper committed prisoner to Blackness.

Then he concludes his last Messenger with letters,More letters from the K. Advising the Queen to conserve her fame and renown by her clemency, as yet unspotted from any stain of cruelty, not to be now defied and polluted with the blood of his Mother, the wound reflecting to his smart, which he should never leave unconsidered, to the tyranny of them that thirsted his destruction long since, as they do his Mothers now. Beseeches the Queens mercy and compassion to them both.

In a word,A Mandate for execution. It was a business that till that time had no President, and Queen Elizabeth to say truth, as much perplexed what to conclude, brought her minde the more into confusion.

At length, she signed a Warrant for a Mandate, fitted for the great Seal,Davison. and her Execution; and trusted it with Davison one of her Secretaries, to be in readiness in case of danger. But he too hastily had it made up under the Seal, which (some say) she would afterwards have recalled, but was prevented by the earnest prosecution of Beale Clerk of the Councel, Queen Maries enemie.Be [...]le. Him the Councel sends to the Earls of Shrewsbury, Kent, Derby and Cumberland, for her Execution, unknowing to Queen Elizabeth; for (it is said) at that instant, She told Davison that she was resolved of another way than by death. Indeed she was in distraction what to do, but whilst she doubted, the Councel did it for her. And so had her head taken off by the Axe at Fothringham Castle in Northampton-shire.

But,The manner of her Execution. because her high birth and Exellencies deserve particular Memorial, I may not forget her behaviour in the last Act of Life and Death. The Earls comming thither, Pawlet and Drewry being there before, were added Commissioners to see her Execution.

And gave her warning on Monday the sixth of February 1586. to prepare agai [...]st Wednesday next, the eighth day following. At which, she smiled, it being very sudain, short, and unexpected: But said, that her death was welcome, seeing her Majesty (meaning Queen Elizabeth) was so resolved; And that, that soul was unworthy of Glory, and the joyes of Heaven, whose body can not indure one blow from the Hangman. A good while, she was silent, then weeping bitterly, retyred into her Chamber, where she spent her time in devotion, and setling her Will.

The eighth day brought her forth,Her featur [...]. to a sad execution. She was of Stature tall and Corpulent, thick shouldered, fat-fac'd, and broad; [Page] double chinn'd, hazell eyes; Her (borrowed) hair, somewhat appearing, was Aburnd; and her attire thus,

On her head, a dress of Laun, edged with Bone-lace; a chain of Pomander, Her apparelled. and an Agnus Dei about her neck, a pair of Beads at her Girdle, with a golden Cross at the end of them; a Veil of Laun fastned to her Call, bowed out with Wyar, and edged with Bone-lace.

Her Gown of Black Sattin, printed, with a train and long sleeves to the ground, set with Acorn-buttons of Gett, trimed with pearl; her short sleeves Black Sattin cut, which opened upon purple Velvet sleeves under them.

Her Kirtle whole, of figured Black Sattin, her Petticote and upper bodies of Crimson Sattin unlaced in the back; and the skirts of Crimson Velvet; her shoos Spanish leather, the inside outward; a pair of green Silk Garters, watchet Silk Stockings, clock't and edged on the top with Silver; and under them, a pair of white Jersey-hose.

Thus set out (and not hastened) she willingly leaves her Chamber,Comes forth of her chamber. and paces towards the Scaffold, gently supported with two Gentlemen, Pawlets servants; Thomas Andrews high Sheriff of North▪ going before.

The Commissioners [...]tended her coming into the Anti-Chamber, Commissioners receive her, who with divers Knights and Gentlemen of that Country. And amongst them,speaks with Melvin her▪ ma [...]. her servant Melvin, designed by her to go to Scotland; Ah Madam (said he) what unhappy wretch am I, the Messenger of my gracious Queen and Mistress, and of her death.

The Queen not till then weeping, My good servant (said she) mourn no more, thou shalt see Mary Stewarts troubles ended in an instant; The world is all but vain; Say thus much from me, That I dye true to My Religion; faithful to the Interest of Scotland and France. God forgive them that thus long have sought, nay thirsted for my blood, as the Hart does for Water-brooks.

O God, Thou the Author of Truth, the searcher of the secret Chamber of my heart, knowst that I was ever willing to the Union of Scotland and England. But well, Gods will be done.

Commend Me to my Son; Tell him, that I have done nothing prejudicial to the State and Kingdome of Scotland, nor to mine own Honor. And so resolving her self into Tears, bids Melvin farewell, and kissing his cheek, said, Once again, Good and faithful servant farewell, pray for thy Queen and Mistress.

And turning to the Commissioners, And to the Commissioners. she made some requests to them, That certain monies in Pawlets hands, might be paid to one Curl her servant, which was promised.

Next, That her servants might enjoy what she had given them by Will; and to have conveyance into their several Countries, and this my good Lord of Shrewsbury, I conjure upon you.

[Page] Then, That her poor servants might be witnesses to the world, of her patient suffering; and that she died a constant Romane Catholick.

To this she was refused,Who denie he [...] some requests. and Kent humbly told her, It might interrupt her quiet in their passions and behaviour, as is usual (said he) in dipping their linnin and skarfs in blood.

My Lord, said she, smiling, I will give my word (though but in death) they shall not deserve blame. Ah, las! poor souls! they desire to bid me adiew. I hope your Mistress being a Maiden Queen will vouchsefe Me the modesty of Woman-hood, to have of my own about Me at death.

You have not such strict Commission, but may afford Me more, were I less then the Queen of Scotland.

But,At which she weep [...], being denied, She burst into tears and scorn, I am, said she, Cosin to your Queen, descended from that Royal King Henry the Seaventh; a married Queen of France; and anointed Queen of Scotland. This is not well.

Upon which importunity they consulted,And they yield. and appointed to her Melvin and an Apothecary, her Chirurgion a Burgonian, and one man more; and two women of her Chamber.

And now,and she come [...] to the Scaffold she passed on into the Hall, with undaunted courage, stept up upon the Scaffold, raised two foot high, and twelve broad, railed about, a low stool, a Cushion and the Block, all covered with black.

Being set,Sits down. the Lords and Shrieff on her right hand, Pawlet and Drewry on her left; the two Executioners (common Hangmen, the one of London, the other of that Country) stood before her; the Knights and Gentlemen, placed round about without the Rails.

After silence made,Beale [...] speech. Beale Clerk of the Privy Councel, having read the Commission for her execution, the people shouted, and cryed, God save our Queen. During which, the Queen with very careless regard, seemed as not there concerned.

Then Doctor Fletcher Dean of Peterborough standing before her,Dr. Fle [...]cher Dean of Peterboroughs exhortation. without the Rails, bowing his body with due reverance, gave her this exhortation.

Madam (said he)

The Queens most Excellent Majesty (notwithstanding this preparation for execution of Iustice, justly to be done upon you, for your many trespasses against Her Sacred Person, State and Government) having tender care over your soul, presently to depart, does by me, offer to your consideration, that by the true faith in Christ our Saviour, you may live for ever. First to consider,

Your estate past and transitory.

Your condition present and to come,

And the means of bliss, Or

Bane everlasting.

[Page] Herein, having read her a tedious Lecture of the bodies frailty, commends to her consideration the Glory of Immortality, with comparisons of Mercy or Misery for ever: and so concluding (with the best Counsel he could) to deny her Romish Religion.

But she,She interrupts him. not able to hold out till his ending, interrupting three or four times, tells him, he need not trouble himself nor her, to change her faith, in which she was settled during her life, the ancient Catholick Roman Profession, In defence whereof she had been alwayes, and yet would be ready to sacrifice her blood.

The Earls said, Madam, we will pray with your Grace, that you may be enligh [...]ned with the true knowledge of Jesus Christ, and dye therein.

The Queen thanked them, but refused to pray together, unless in her own devotions.

Then they required the Dean to pray,He prayed for her. who effectually in a long Prayer, desired God to open her understanding by Faith and Repentance, to turn from her vain affection of Papistry, and to dye in the true Protestant faith.

All which time,Her demeanor in Prayers. the Queen sate on her stool, with a Latine prayer-Book in her hand, a Crucifix and Beads, not regarding what he said; Her servants also did the like.

But then the Queen, with all her people, with a loud voice, and in tears, prayed in Latin.

And after that, her self concluded with an English prayer, for the Church afflicted, for her Son, and for the Queen, and professed to be saved by the blood of Christ. Upon this, kissing her Crucifix (said she) will I shed my blood.

She earnestly prayed, That God would avert his judgements from the sins of this Kingdom, and to afford the people grace of Repentance.

And prayed for forgiveness of her Enemies, who so long had sought her destruction, to convert them into the truth, and desired all Saints to pray for them and her.

Kissing her Crucifix, crossed her self, and besought Our Saviour who spread his Arms for all, to receive her now unto his mercy, Amen.

The Executioners kneeled to her,Executioners and servants disrobe her. and begged forgiveness, which she granted very unfeignedly, as she said, heartily willing to receive this cup, the end of all her miseries.

Her women began to disrobe her; one of the Executioners took from her Neck the Agnus Dei tyed behind, which the Queen laid hold on, gave it to her woman, and told him, he should have money. But suffered them, with her women, to take off her chain and apparel in some hast and gladness, alwayes smiling; and putting off her strait sleeves with her own hands, denied the fellow, who rudely offered at it.

[Page] With more than smiling scorn, told them all, never such Grooms; disrobed a Queen, nor never did she undress before such company.

And now in her Petticote and Kirtle,Her servants sorrowful. prepared for death, her women skreeking, cryed out with exceeding sorrow, crossed themselves, and prayed in Latin.

The Queen crossed and kissed them, desired their prayers without mourning, and crossed her men servants, who stood without the Rail, weeping and crying out.

One of her women with a Corpus Christi-cloth wrapped corner-wayes, kissed it, put it over the Queens face, pinning it fast upon the Call of her Head.

Then she kneeled down upon her Cushion,She kneels at the Block. resolutedly undaunted, spake aloud in Latin the whole Psalm, In te domine confido, ne confunder in aeternum.

And groping for the Block, laid down her head, put her chin over the block with both her hands, and held them there, which might have been cut off with her head, had they not been espied.

But being advised, she quietly ordered her self again, and stretching forth her Arms and leggs,And is executed. cryed out, In Manus tuas domine, &c. three or four times, when one of the Executioners gently held her down, and the other gave two strokes with the Axe, before her head was off, leaving a little gris [...]e uncut, without the least stir or remove of the body. He lifted up her head, and said, God save our Queen.

Her dressing fallen off, her hair appeared so grey as at seventy yeers,46. yeers old 18. yeers prisoner. very short: Her lips stirred a quarter of an hour after.

Then said the Dean, So perish the enemies of our Queen. So said the Earl of Kent.

Very remarkable was there,Observable, her Dogs d [...] meaner. one accident; The Queen had a little Shag-dog, that alwayes followed her Person, even to her foot-steps, who (unespied) crept under her Garments, and would not remove but by force, snarling and biting; nor would afterwards depart, but laid down between her head and shoulders, most notoriously noted by all. The Commissioners gave way to the humor of the Dog, who imbrued himself in her blood, snarling and casting up his eyes as if to quarrel with them all, and bite at them who washed him, as they did all things else▪ that were bloody.

The Executioners had mony, but no part of her Garments. The Corps was carried up into the great Chamber,Her Corps buried in the Cathedral of Peterborough. Magnificently removed by K. James to Westminster, 1612. and there imbalmed, and afterward buried in the Cathedral of Peterborough: and her funerals were kept more Magnificently by the Guises at Paris; and yet more illustrious twenty six yeers after by her son, the King, in the remove of her Corps from thence to Westminster, where she lies intombed amongst the Glories of her Royal Ancestors.

And thus she died, Mary Queen of Scotland, great grand-daughter [Page] to Henry the Seventh of England, by the eldest Daughter Margaret, six and fourty years of age, and in the eighteenth year of her Captivity, Anno 1586.

Let us give her to the World in this brevity.

She was designed by Henry the Eighth to his Son Edward the Sixth,Her Epitaphs. and by Henry the Second, King of France, for Francis the Dolphin; at five years of age she was conveyed in to France, at fifteen married to the Dolphin, who was after King of France.

She was sole Sovereign Queen of France one year and four moneths. Her Husband being dead, she returned into Scotland, and married the Lord Darly by whom she had King Iames.

Near to her Tomb in Peterborough Church was this Epitaph fixed in Latine, but soon pulled down.

Maria Scotorum, &c. Thus Englished:

Mary Queen of Scots, a Kings Daughter, the French Kings Widow, near Kinswoman to the Queen of England, and next Heir to the Crown, adorned with royal virtues and a kingly minde; often, but in vain, demanding the Privilege of a Prince; by barbarous and tyrannical Cruelties, the Ornament of our Age, and a right Princely Light is extinguished; and by one and the same infamous Iudgment both Mary Queen of Scots, (to a natural Death) and all surviving Kings, (being made common persons) are doomed to a Civil Death; a strange and uncouth Grave, wherein the Living are shut up with the Dead. Cum sacris enim divae Mariae cineribus, omnium Regum, atque Principum violatam atque prostratam Majestatem hic jacere scito; & quia tacitum regale satis superque Reges sui Officii monet, plura non addo, Viator.

Indeed so much was said and censured, that the Queen and State began to double; she in a monstrous sadness and tears, denying Address of the Counsellours; and her self excuseth her Death to the King of Scots by Sir Robert Cary.

MY dear Brother,

I would to God you knew, though not to feel, how my minde with imcomparable grief is disquiet, in regard of this lamentable Event, against my meaning and intent,Q. Elizabeths Letter to the K. of Scots. which because my Pen trembles to utter, by this my Cosin, you shall understand it. I am not so poor of spirit, to be afraid to do what is just, or to deny it, I intreat you, that God above and many on earth may be witnesses of my innocency therein; and that you would credit, had I commanded, I would also now not deny it. being done; nor appertaineth it to a Prince, to shadow the meaning with ambiguous words, nor will I dissemble my Actions, out of their own colour. Perswade your self to the truth. As I know this is deservedly come to pass, so if I had meant it, I would never have laid blame on others; nor will I impute to my self what I never dreamed. The rest he shall impart, by whom you receive these; as for [Page] me, I would have you credit, that there is none more truly affected towards you, or more studious for you and your affairs; if any shall otherwise suggest, believe them not. God keep you long in safety and prosperity.

And Cary on his Journey, poor Davison her Secretary (to make good the Errand) is called to trial in the Star-chamber, Davison sentenced in Star-chamber. before Delegates assigned; a man of singular modesty and mildness, answered much for his innocency, as being unwilling to contest with the Queen, yet could he not endure his modesty should wrong the Truth and his own Integrity, and so suffered himself to be be guilty and censured a thousand pounds Fine and Imprisonment, which he endured a long time, and never could procure the Queens favour, though he was relieved by her charity in his great necessity, which after followed.

The Qu. (saith he) upon the Departure of the French and Scotish Ambassadours from Her,His apology unto Walsing. of her own accord commanded me to prepare the Commission, for executing the Sentence against the Queen of Scots, and when it was exhibited, she willingly signed it with her own Hand; and after, gave order for it to be made ready under the Great Seal of England; and merrily said, Signifie thus much to Walsingham, who is sick, though I fear greatly it will make him die with grief.

She added also Reasons, why she had deferred it so long, to wit, That she might not seem to be drawn unto it forcibly or maliciously; though she were not ignorant all the while how necessary it was.

She blamed Paulet and Drury, that they had not freed Her from that care, and wished that Walsingham would try them therein.

The next Day the Great Seal was to it, she sent Injunction by Killegrew, that it should not be done. And when I shewed to Her, that it was done, she reproved my haste, intimating, that some other couse by some wise Persons might be taken.

I made Answer, That that was always the best way, which was the justest.

But fearing that she might lay the fault on me, (as she had done the Duke of Norfolks punishment on the Lord Burghley) I imparted the whole matter to Hatton; protesting not to engage any further in so great an Affair. He strait way did communicate to Burghley, and he to the rest of the Counsellours, who all consented to have it hastened: and severally vowed, that they would bear the blame; and they sent down Beal with the Commission and Letters.

Three Days after, perceiving her minde doubtfull, by reason of a Dream which she told, of the Queen of Scots Death; I asked, if her minde were altered? No, (said she) but some other course [Page]might have been thought upon. And with all demanded, if Paulet had returned any Answer?

Whose Letters when I shewed to her, wherein he plainly refused to undertake it, as being neither honorable nor just;

She in anger accused him and others, which had tied themselves in Association of Perjury, and their Vow violated, who had promised great matters for their Princes safety, but would perform nothing: yet there were amongst them (she said) that would do as much in their own cause.

But I shewed, how infamous and unjust a thing that were, and withall into what Dangers she should cast Paulet and Drury; for if she allowed the Fact, she must draw upon her self Danger and Disgrace, besides a note of Injustice, but if she disallowed it, she must ruine well-deserving men and their posterity.

Afterward, the same Day, that she was put to Death, she gave me a Check, that the Sentence was not all this while put in execution, as thinking it not done.

Hereby appears foul play intended,Foul play on all hands. by another (no doubt) wicked way, which Paulet and Drury boggled at to perform: and yet we see, what daubing there was on all sides, to cast the blame and after-shame on any, to keep the stain and blot from the eminent Actors.

And the cunning of Walsingham, who having the greatest hand in the contrivance towards her Death, craftily got out of the way at the Deed doing; and therefore Davison appeals to him, telling the truth in his politick absence of a counterfeit cold.

And Walsingham is put upon it,Walsinghams Letter to pacifie the K. to work his wits how to pacifie King Iames, with a tedious Letter to the Lord Thirlstan, who had the chiefest interest in the Scotish affairs of State; propounding to him, important Reasons, to keep the King from enmity with England; which though very effectual, might meet with the like resolution in Him, to forbear violence, and to take up a more calm consideration. But though the Letter be long, we may not hinder it the worlds approbation.

SIR,

BEing absent from Court when the late Execution of the Queen your Sovereigns Mother happened,Walsinghams Letter to the L. Thirlstan. I did forthwith upon my Return impart to Master Dowglas some things, concerning the course was conceived here, by your said Sovereigns best Friends, fit to be holden in this remediless Accident; for continuance of Peace and Amity between the two Crowns, as the best for both Nations.

The rather, for that by advertisement out of Scotland, I understand [Page] that the Queens Death is like to breed a strange Alienation of his Majesties minde towards this Realm, tending (as is reported) wholly to violence and revenge of that, which hath been done so necessarily by the whole Body of the same; whereof, as for my own part I should be sorry, so it is generally hoped, that his Majesty being of that singular judgment himself, by the good help and advice of such as you are in credit and authority about him, men of wisdom and experience, whom he will hear, this mischief, will (notwithstanding) be carefully and prudently prevented; considering how every way all things being rightly weighed, this course will be found prejudicial, as well to your Sovereigns Estate, as to his Reputation, if he resolve to persist therein.

For first, the Enterprise will undoubtedly be condemned, in the sight of all such as shall not be transported with some particular passion; for that they shall see, that he takes Arms for revenge of an Action (besides the necessity wherein it is grounded) full of so honourable and just Proceedings, as, however the effect was contrary to their liking, the manner thereof, by the late Queens great Favourers, could not but be approved and allowed. And as on the one side, the King your Sovereign oppugning the course of Justice; of so unlawfull, unjust and desperate a Quarrel, cannot be expected any other thing than an unhappy and miserable issue: so, we being assured, that in the defence of Justice, the assistance of God his mighty Arm will not fail us, whose Judgment this was, need not to fear▪ what ever man shall attempt to the contrary, against this Realm.

But not to stand upon the justness of the Quarrels, which every man perhaps will not so much regard; It would be considered, what means your Sovereign shall have to go through with such Enterprise, if he take it in hand. For, the Forces of his own Realm, being so far inferiour to these in England, no man is so simple, but seeth it were no way safe for his Majesty, trusting onely thereto, to make Head against the power of this Land, neither is it thought, that any man will be found so unadvised, as to wish him so to do.

But, as it may be, that a great Number (for lack of understanding) are carried away with such Discourses, (as some without solid ground imagine) of that might be done in this case by a King of Scotland, backed and assisted (as they conceive in the air) with the French and Spanish aid; so it is likely enough, there shall not want those, that either in satisfaction of their private passions, or supply of their necessities, or better affectionating of some other their private design, would be content to serve themselves of this present publick occasion and oportunity, who will propound and promise more to his Majesty, of such forein [Page] assistance, than they know in their consciences, can be performed, if he would declare himself Enemy to this Realm; which that he should, (though to his own ruine) the Enemies of both Nations, will do what they can to procure.

But men of wisdom and understanding, laying before their eys, as well the accustomed delays, and after long [...]ollicitation and pursute, the simple supplies and support, commonly found at these forein Potentates hands; as also, how doubfull and uncertain the success of War may appear; England (God be thanked) being so prepared, and in case to defend it self, both otherwi [...]e, and also by the conjunction of Holland and Zealands Forces by Sea; in respect whereof, this Realm need not fear, what all the Potentates of Europe being bended against us, can do, to afford the same; Due consideration (I say) being taken hereof, you will easily judg and finde, how vain it were, for your Sovereign, upon so uncertain hopes, to embarque himself and Estate in an unnecessary War: but much more, if you shall consider, what a sequel and train of Dangers, this War draweth therewith, the consequence whereof reacheth to whatsoever your Sovereign possesseth, or hopeth for in this life. For, escaping to be slain in the field, if he should happen to be taken Prisoner, or be constrained to retire himself out of the Realm, (things that have often fallen out in experience) and then, having incensed this whole Realm against him, he should be disabled from any Right in the Succession of this Crown, (as authority is given to do it by the same Statute, whereby they proceeded against his Mother) for attempting the Invasion of this Land, what extremity should he be reduced unto?

And truly it could not otherwise be, the antient enmity between the two Nations now forgotten, being (by drawing bloud one of another again) likely to be in such sort revived, that it would be impossible to make them to receive a Prince of that Nation, and especially Him, who had (upon so unjust ground) been the Author of so unhappy a Breach.

Besides that, the greatest part of the Nobility, by whose judgment the late Queen was condemned, and the rest of the principal Gentlemen of the Realm, who confirmed the same in Parliament, should have just cause to adventure any thing, even to the marching over their bellies, rather than to yield to his Government, who carrying such a vindictive minde, they might doubt, would not day call their Lives and Honours in question.

And as for the remedy and relief which he might attend (standing on those terms) of forein Princes, there are many Examples of former Ages, and within fresh memory; as the King of Navar's Grandfather by the Mothers side, and Christian King of Denmark, both being allied to Francis the First, and [Page] Charls the Fifth, two of the mightiest Potentates that reigned of long time: and that this present Don Antonio, may su [...]fice for Examples, to teach all Princes, (if they can avoid it) to beware how they fall into that state, whereby they shall be enforced to seek their own by other Potentates means; Princes, not being so ready in these days, to embrace other mens Quarrels, but where they are extraordinarily interessed in their own fortunes.

Wherefore I doubt not, but it will be seen by men of judgment, (not transported with passion, or led away with private respects) that it should be every way, the onely best course for your Sovereign, by a good and kinde usage of Her Majesty, and by shewing that Princely moderation, as well in this grievous Accident of his Mothers death, as his whole proceeding with this Realm (which his Highness excellent Education seems to promise) to seek to win the hearty good wills of this Nation; as the chief and principal assurance he can in any sort obtain.

For, to trust and depend either upon the French King, or the K. of Spain, as if by their assistance, he might attain to the present possession of this Crown, they being indeed the only two Potentates, whom he must have recourse unto, if he reject the amity of England; whosoever shall so counsel your Sovereign, (as things now stand) shall in the judgment of men of the best understanding, be blamed either of fidelity or want of wisdom, drawing his Majesty unto so untoward and desperate a course.

For, it is no way safe for any Prince to repose his trust and strength upon their favour and assistance, to whose desires and designs his greatness may yield any impeachment or hindrance; so it were clearly against common reason, to expect other support and assistance from them, than might stand with their own commodities and pretensions, in respect whereof, neither of the two foresaid Kings can simply and roundly joyn with his Sovereign to his good.

First, his Religion being odious to them both, and likely to prove most prejudicial to the Catholick Cause, he growing so great, as he should be made by the union of the two Crowns; the consideration whereof, caused his Mothers affairs to stick a long time, and made now in the end, to leave him quite out of the reckoning, ordaining the King of Spain her Heir, if her Son became not Catholick.

Next, it is meerly repugnant to the policy of France, were it but in respect of the ancient claim which England maketh to that Crown, to suffer the uniting of this Island under one Prince.

They have been content in former times, when England had footing in France, to serve themselves of your Nation, therewith to annoy this Realm, by the means of diverting or dividing the Forces thereof; and so perhaps the Politicks of France can be [Page] content to wish at this day, by your Sovereigns Quarrel, or any such like, to be eased of the burthen and miseries of the present War, wherewith they are plagued, by transporting the same into this Island. But as this Realm hath good means to prevent the mi [...]chief, if it were intended; so were your Sovereign to look, when all were done, but to be made an Instrument, as his Predecessors have been, of the effusion of much Scotish bloud, for French Quarrels, and the desolation of that Realm.

And as things stand presently in France, it is not to be thought that you shall finde the King ready to hearken unto any Enterprise of this Land; He being most desirous to live in peace, both with his Neighbours abroad, and with his Subjects at home; but that he hath been forced full sore against his will, by the practice of them of the House of Guise, to countenance with his authority the Civil War raised in that Realm; which maketh him (what ever shew he hath to shadow out the contrary) to hate them in his heart.

Neither would it be held sound counsel, to be given him, by any that depends upon his fortune, to further the advancement of a King of Scots so nearly allied to that Family, which he hath discovered, and greatly feareth to level at his own Crown, with any intention to depose him, which by the greatness of a King of Scots, they should be so much the sooner and better able to effect.

The King of Spain's assistance, being now in War with this Realm, were more likely to be obtained, but far more dangerous to be used, in respect of his most insatiable ambition, deep practices, and power, accompanied in this case with a colour of Right, wherein how far he would seek to prevail, any opportunity or advantage being offered, it may be justly doubted, by the experience that sundry States have had, which upon slender grounds of Title, have been extorted and wrung from the true Inheritors, and annexed to his own Kingdom, as Navar, Portugal, and all that he possesseth in Italy, hath been.

It is believed, that the King of Spain, considering his years, and unsettled Estate every way, would willingly incline to peace, if it were offered, with reasonable conditions, and not over readily at this present, imbarque himself in any new Enterprise.

But, otherwise it is well known, as he had fancied to Himself the Empire of all this part of Europe, so he had an eye to this Realm ever since he was King, in Right of his Wife. The Conquest was intended under colour of Religion, as it was discovered by some that were of his Privy Council at that time; his pretension to be Heir of the House of Lancaster, and (since the late Queen of Scots Death) the first Catholick Prince of the Bloud [Page] Royal of England, as also the Donation of this Crown, made to him by the Queen of Scots in her Letters, with a promise to confirm it by Testament; (things blazed abroad by the Spanish Ambassadour at Paris) ought to breed jealousies and suspitions in your Sovereigns head, and give him true cause to think, how he should be used at such an Assistants hand. Auxiliary Forces have ever been reputed dangerous, if they either in number or policy were superior to them that called them in. The Assistance therefore of Spain and France being of this nature, as your Sovereign hath need of neither, so he shall do well to forbear them both, and so shall it be well for his ease.

It may be, some will pretend by change of his Religion, your Sovereign shall better his condition, in regard of these forein Princes; besides, a great party within this Realm, that thereby shall be drawn wholly to depend upon his fortune; but the poor distressed estate of Don Antonio, being a Catholick Prince, spoiled by a Catholick, and receiving so little succour at Catholick Princes hands, shall be a sufficient bar to all that can be said in that behalf.

As for the Catholick party in England, in his Mothers life, it was never so united, as they drew all in one line, much less will they be brought suddenly to rely upon him, if he should alter his Religion, (as God defend) which would be his utter discredit and overthrow, both with the one and the other party; neither having cause to repose confidence in him; the Protestants, because he had renounced the Religion, wherein he was with great care brought up.

The Papists, because they could not be assured in short space, that he was truly turned to their faith; yea, all men should have reason to forsake him, who had thus dissembled and forsaken his God.

And whereas it was given out, that divers do insinuate into your Sovereign, that his Honor and Reputation is so deeply interessed herein, as it must necessarily turn to his perpetual ignominy and reproach, if he give not some notable testimomy to the world, of the affection and dutifull love he bare to his Mother; your King being of that singular judgment, that he is thought to have, cannot be ignorant, how far true honour ought to possess a Christian Prince, that is, not whither Passion or fury useth to carry men, but whither Reason or Wisdom have laid the bounds, that is, within the compass of Possibility, Decency and Iustice.

If the late Queen had been innocent, Revenge had been necessary, just and honourable; but being culpable, contrary, (in all reasonable mens judgments) he hath sufficiently discharged the duty of a Son, in mediating for his Mother, so long as she was alive, [Page] and so far as he was able to prevail; they which require more at his Highness hands, may be presumed, not to regard what beseemeth his Place and Dignity, but to seek the satisfaction of their own particular passions and desires.

And whoever perswadeth his Majesty, that the mediation used by him for his Mother, contrary to the humble pursute of the whole Parliament, hath already given that offence to the Nobility and People of this Land, as it behoveth him of force to have recourse to forein supports, doth greatly abuse both his Highness and this Realm; for as they were not ignorant, what Nature might and ought to move his Majesty unto, so long as there were any hope of her life; so, they do not doubt, but that reason will induce him to leave sorrowing, and thinking of her, in due time.

Thus have I troubled you with a long Discourse, whereunto the desire I have of the continuance of amity between the two Crowns, hath carried me unawares further than I purposed; all which, I refer to your consideration, not doubting that you will afford most readily and willingly all good offices that shall lie in your power, to the end that a happy conclusion may ensue hereof, which shall tend to the common good of the whole Island. And so I commit you to God.

From the Court at Greenwich, Martii 4. 1686.

Your Lordships assured Friend, FR: WALSINGHAM.

Here was good Counsel for the King,The King [...] deportment upon his Mothers death. but for the present, in great discontent he calls home his Ambassadors out of England; the States of Scotland urge him to a revenge, to seek aid of forein Princes, and a Navy from the King of Denmark, whose daughter then was in treaty of Marriage with him.

The Catholicks suggested, rather to joyn with the Pope, Spain, and France, and to desert the Puritans; who (they said) would murther him, as his Mother. Some willed him to be Neuter, to take time to bethink, and by that means, whilst his distempered condition gave excuse for his Acting, he might piece himself to that party, where he should be sure of best support. Alwaies, he resolved to keep peace with England, and constancy to his Protestant Religion.

And thus,Whom Queen Elizabeth caressed. whilst his wisdom beyond his age (twenty two yeers) sate still, the Queen feared the more; not knowing, what Counsel might provoke him to her prejudice, and so stayed some time, till the length thereof might mitigate her sorrow, being [Page] indeed to big to be cured,Anno 1587. till it should lye down, and rest with its own weight and weariness.

Therefore knowing how mightily the French wrought in their mine to provoke both Nations to publike defiance, she maturely sends several Messengers, and afterwards the Lord Hunsdon her Ambassador, with studied arguments, to take off his adhering to foreign friendships, and the danger thereby to both Kingdoms, where his interest in succession was most of all concerned, being his just right, to which his Mothers sufferings could be no prejudice.

But the next yeer, Philip King of Spain, sends to the Duke of Parma his Governor in the Low Countries,Designs upon the King to revenge. in his Name, to promise to King Iames mony and Amunition, sufficient, to attempt revenge for his mothers death. Parma sends over to Scotland Robert Bruce, a Scot by birth, and noble family, with money to quicken his purpose. The Pope, also, Pius Quintus, dispatches thither his Bishop of Dublin, to promise to the King the Infanta of Spain in marriage, if he would turn Romane Catholike; but faithfull, Metallan the Chancellor, frustrates those hopes, and returns him home with a flea in his ear.

But ere he departs, he designs on William Creyton a Scot also, and sometime Rector of the College,Designs in Scotlaand. of Iesuits in Leyden, to stay behind; and this man treats with Bruce to murther Metallan. Bruce refuses that Assassination; and then he is urged to hire with Parmas mony, some needy noble man there, at a banquet, to poyson the King his invited guest, and was denyed in that also. Then he quarels with him to part with fifteen hundred Crowns, to distribute them to three other Lords to effect it, but being refused in all these, he stayes the time to work out other mischiefs hereafter; and Parma dying, he accuseth Bruce of Treason (for not willing to be a Traytor) and for which he indures long imprisonment ere he got liberty.

The Earl of Angus (to make him quiet) was sent the Kings Lieutenant on the Borders▪ Earl A [...]gus dies bewitcht. this was done to rid hm out of the way of disordering the Court, where he was ever factious, and to his own liking also, for he was contented with the condition of those people, with whom he spent much of his former time of treachery and trouble; But his disease, there, increasing, he dies. He was of a swart complexion,His Character. tall and slender, well proportioned and strait; of a weak and tender constitution. His death was ascribed to witchcraft (frequent profession with them) by one Barbery Nepair in Edenburgh, wi [...]e to Dowglass of Castogle, who was condemned, but execution deferred, she being with child, and for the present reprieved, and after neglected, and so saved from the Gallows. Annia Simson also a famous Witch confessed, That a picture of wax was brought unto her, having the letters A. D. [Page] written on it (which she was told, signified Archiball Davidson) and which she execrated after her form; but it seems it proved Archiball Dowglass (or Davidson) for his father was named David. He dyed the nineth Earl, and the last of his race.

If it were not natural to the Scots to be contrivers of mischief in their own Bowels,Civil broyl [...] in Scotland to kill the Lord Thirslton by Gray, yet now it was not policy for England to let them need their helping hands therein; and therefore new troubles are stirred up in the Scots Court. The Master of Gray conspiring with the Lord Maxwell to kill the Lord Thirlston, Sir Iames Hume and Robert Dowglas reveale it to Sir William Stewart (who was returned to Court) and assure him, that Thirlston, Gray, Blantine and himself brought in the Lords at Sterlin, and put his brother Captain Iames Stewart from Court, which now he repented, and would this way assist him to revenge.

Stewart not confident in the man,accused, discovers all to the King and Thirlston complains to the Councel, which Gray denies, and Sir William justifies, and more, accuses him of abuse in his late Ambassie into England, and treacherously consenting to the death of the Kings Mother. But these accusations referring to truth and a leasurely Tryal, they were both committed. Which came again to examination and further accusation of Gray, of Treason also. for letters to the French King and Duke of Guise; not to assist Scotland in revenge of Queen Maries death, unless the King would tollerate Catholiks, which Gray could not deny, but begged mercy, ingenuously confessing that he finding Queen Elizabeths resolution, advised to put her to death, rather in private, than in forms of Justice; and acknowledged those words mortui non mordent, to be his, and so meant, and not as they were detorted. And so craving the Kings gracious favour,He was banished. was condemned and banished; A rule of the Kings clemency, never to ruine, whom he had affected.

The King now twenty one yeers compleat (and more) calls a Parliament in Iuly at Edenburgh, A Parliament, the King reconciles the Lords. and for preparation, summons the Noblemens whom he reconciled from all controversie, and feasts them all at Court: And being the better whittled, they went hand in hand by couples to the Market-cross. A rare sight to the people if it would last.

He hoped to do as much with the Churchmen, And endeavours to do so by [...]he Kirkmen, who refuse mediation. Ministers and Prelates: But soft, they are not in charity with the King himself, for the committing of their brethren Gibson and Cooper, which was an offence to the Godly, and for the admitting Montgomery (by the Kings desire) who was excommunicate. It must not be but by sparing some of his punishments, in case the King release Cooper; so nothing done for either. And being now up in spiritual Arms, they petition the Parliament, That the Prelates [Page] might be removed from sitting among the Estates, as having no authority from the Church, no function nor charge at all. But the Abbot of Kinlass made answer, That the Ministers had disorderly shut them out of their Churches, and now would turn them out of their places in Parliament. And indeed do what the King could to the contrary, there passed an Act for annexing the Temporality of Benefices to the Crown, upon pretext of bettring the patrimony, and to leav the honor of Estate without Taxe on the people, but to the utter decay of the spiritual; Priors and Abotts being turned temporal Lords, which the King afterwards finding inconvenient, advises his son in his Basilicon Doron to anull, That vile and pernicious Act, as he calls it.

The Borderers were up,Borderers in [...]wd. taking advantage of any quarrel, now make incursions upon England with fire and sword, beginning the revenge for their Queen Mother, as they termed it. Hereupon Hunsdon Governor of Barwick gets audience of the King (all others before being refused) urging the most of Walsinghams reasons before mentioned,Hunsdon Ambassador to Scotla [...] ▪ as a hazard to his succession, to raise war with England, and satisfies the King with a Declaration of the Judges, and the sentence of Davison in Star-Chamber, as if all had been done without Queen Elizabeths knowledge, and so the Borderers were commanded to be qniet.

An Ambassadour Patrick Vaus of Barnborough from Denmark, Ambassadours about the mariage with Denmark. accompanied Peter Yong the Kings Almoner, who had been sent to Treat of the Marriage in May last, return now in August with the conclusion; and that in the spring, a Nobleman should be directed to accomplish the Ceremony in Denmark and bring home the Bride. But the death of King Frederick her father in Aprill, delayed the business for certain moneths after.

To end this yeer,Jesuit [...] arrive in Scotland. comes over divers Jesuits and Priests, to deal with the Catholicke Lords in Scotland, to assist the next yeers invasion of England, in hope to find friendship if they should be forced on their Coast, and outwardly made it their business of revenge, for his Mothers death, promising to conquer the Crown for his sake, that was sure, otherwise to wear it; but the King hastely returns them home again, and proclaims against them, and their Abetters.

And the Church-men taking fire,Kirk-men insolent. though all fear was quenched, they Assemble Lords and Laicks, and in a confused multitude beset the Kings resolutions, to do of himself, what they so earnestly desired. And therefore in great choler sends them word, That they meant to boast him with their power, and force the execution of their demands, and admitting some of the number, they confer with the Kings Councel, and so a good course was concluded against the Catholicks, and the Ministers bidden to depart.

[Page] Nay,Anno 1588. now they are up, allay them who can, for ere they disband, the grievances of the Church must be rectified. Iames Gibson heretofore censured for his misdemeanour against the King, and had liberty upon promise of his Recantation and Submission in the Pulpit;and in mutiny for Gibson. but the man had a new Light, and told the People, that out of infirmity he had confessed a Fault, but his conscience now was otherwise revealed; that his actions heretofore were innocent.

The Chancellour hath the opinion of the Assembly,Gibsons ab [...]se of the King. whether To call the King Persecutor of the Church, and threaten him to be the last of his Race, were well done? and this to the People out of the Pulpit?

Much ado in dispute, to finde error in so godly a man; the major Votes made it offensive; and in the afternoon he was to appear for defining the Censure; but in the mean time Gibson gets away, and was excused, being in fear of the King, so great an Adversary; and this endured a long debate, in behalf of him, ere the Kings Advocates could plead a distinction, between his Majesty and their Ministery; and all that could be gotten for the King was, the man to be suspended, during the pleasure of the Assembly, which lasted but the next meeting in August, where Gibson gives his Reasons of not appearing before, for fear that the affairs of the Church might be hindered by disturbance, He flies into England to the Schismaticks. if his person had then suffered in presence of the People.

Upon this deep Declaration, without asking leave of the King, he is purged of his contumacy, which so incensed the King, who taking upon him to be some-body, the Fellow was forced to fly to the factious Brethren in England, who were labouring to bring in the holy Discipline into that Church also.

For the infection of Schisms had spread abroad in England greater Injuries and more impudent Contempts than had been known before,Puritans of England. upon the Temporal and Ecclesiastical Magistrates,Martin, f. 780. by the Puritans (as one calls them) of those days; and Queen Elizabeth, Semper eadem, not enduring Innovation, as impugning directly or obliquely the Royal Prerogative.

The Zealots for the Geneve Discipline, railing at the English Hierarchy with scurrilous non-sense Libells, by names of Martin-Mar-Prelate, The Demonstration of Discipline, sought mischief upon the Bishops; the chief Authours were Penry, Udal, Ministers; Iob Throgmorton, Knightley and Wigstone, Laicks; their Favourites drawn in, to defend their Railings, and were soundly fined in Star-chamber; yet they privately held conventicles, and had their Synods, Classes and Presbyteries; for this cause Thomas Cartwright (the Father of the Disciplinarians) Snape, King, Proudlow and Pain, were questioned, whom certain conspired to rescue; and so great was the petulancy of these Patriarchs and [Page] their Disciples, as would require a particular Volume to unfold. See Hist. Q. Eliz. by Martin, fol. 782.

The King, to keep things fair with England, resolved to visit the Borders with some Forces to the West Marches, Maxwell in Rebellion is pursued by the King. whither the Lord Herries was fled, but submitting, and promising to conform to Protestancy, he was dismissed, and sent to his charge there again.

Whilest the King was in this Expedition, the Lord Maxwell formerly having leave to travel into Spain, and perceiving there the great preparations for an Armado of Ships to invade England, returns home (invited by some Scotish Catholicks) against his promise, without the Kings leave; and lands in a part of Galloway in April, where it was rumour'd that the Spanish Navy should land, about the West of Scotland, and so by Maxwels means and assistance, they would joyn with the Borderers and enter England that way, the most likely to prevail; where numbers of loose Libertines and out-lodgers repaired to Maxwell, of which the Lord H [...]rries (being in his Wardenship) acquaints the King. Maxwell is sent for to compeer, but refuses, and fortifies his Houses and other Holds, levies Horse and Foot, and expects to encounter with the King, who came to Dunfres with so hasty marching,Maxwell fli [...]. that Maxwell was almost surprised in the House, but gat away some hour before to Galloway, whilest some resistance at the Town Port, gave him that opportunity and leasure to escape.

And on the King goes,Ca [...]tles rendered. summons Laugholme, Treve, and Carlavarock, places of strength, who surrender, but the Castle of Lochmaben commanded by David Maxwell, bids defiance to the Kings face, and made it good against the Assault, untill Ammunition and great Guns were sent for to the English Warden, who forthwith committed them to a Guard of Souldiers, and at the Approach and some Shot, they yielded to parly with Sir William Stuart, for the King, and to render the Castle upon quarter of Life; but the Captain refusing the Kings Summons, was hanged, the rest had pardon.

The King stays not, but pursues Maxwell to Dunfres, and sends Sir William Stuart to follow the chace, and forced him to fly to Sea in a small Bark, whom he follows in a Ship of the Town of Ayr, overtakes him a fews Leagues off, and forces him to yield, who is brought to land,Taken Prisoner. and presented a Prisoner to the King; this was held timely good service, which so pufft up the young Knight with pride, that some weeks after, contesting with insolent words to the Earl Bothwell, at Edenburgh, he kill'd him outright.

The noise of the Spanish Navy gave fears of their setting forth in August, Rumou [...] of the Spanish Navy. and in prudence for the Scots also to arm, not [Page] knowing whom to trust, the King convenes his Nobles at Edenburgh for their advice.

For howbeit (said he) I have no occasion to distrust the Friendships and League with all Christian Princes and Estates,The Kings Speech. yet the Case of England lodges so near upon us, as in time may turn to be our own, and we forced to share in their Troubles; the Spanish intention is for England, and seeing my Right in Succession to that Crown, it were no wisdom for me, to suffer another to possess it before; and the Spaniard hath not usually been so kinde or consciencious to depart with any thing he lays hand upon, though anothers Right; they take Religion for a Pretext of their Invasion, but it is the Kingdom they seek; and we professing the same Faith with England, are sure to fare accordingly, as in their Success; and the Prosecution of their Holy League will fall upon us also.

But I have ever thought, mine own and the safety of Religion, so conjoyned, as they cannot separate; nor do I desire to live and reign longer, than I shall maintain the same. I suspect what many may counsel, that this occasion fits Revenge for my Mothers Death; but, however, I am not over credulous, as to be confident of Queen Elizabeths excuses, concerning here ignorance therein: nor will I be so unwise as to accept the assistance of one mightier than my self, to fight my cause, lest he become Master of us all. Thus you see my minde, and my Reasons; give me your advice and assistance, what we shall do.

The Chancellour seconded the Kings opinion,The Chancellors opinion. by many historical Examples, and discreet politick Arguments; yet since the Queen had not desired any aid from your Majesty, it would not be amiss to secure your own Territories, by not suffering the Spaniard to land in your Dominions: that a general Muster may be taken, and some Noblemen named, to whom the People might resort for Command; that Watches be set upon the Sea-coasts, and Beacons erected to allarm the Countrey, and that the King and Council would reside at Edenburgh, for Command and Authority over all.

Bothwell urged other Arguments of Revenge, Bothwell perswades to invade England. and to invade England, from whom in this exigent (said he) we shall be sure to force good conditions; and as for himself, he had already raised Forces, at his own charge, for the publick service, as an Example for others to do the same; expecting that his opinion would prevail for Invasion. But the King commanded him to guard the Coast, according to his Office, (Admiral of Scotland) and so he seemed to be satisfied.

To instance the dangerous Treacheries amongst some of the Scots, Col. Semples false designs. against their own Nation, in reference to the Spanish pretentions, appears, first in the Design of Colonel [...]Semple, who had [Page] about six years before, betrayed the Town of Lire to the Spaniard, and from that time remained in Flanders with the Prince of Parma, arrives now at Lieth, pretending a frivolous Commission from Parma to the King, which seemed of so small importance, as that it was apprehended rather a false colour of practice with some evil disposed persons, Sir I. Carmichel Capt. of the K. Guard is therefore commanded to have an eye upon his Actions, till the King returned, being now journeying to Falkland; Carmichel does so, and having intelligence of a Pinnace newly arrived in the Frith, and a Passenger already landed, went hastily, and surprizes Semple, reading of the Dispatch, seizes him and them; the Colonel offers of himself to attend the Council, is rescued by Huntley. but by the way was rescued by the Earl Huntley, who undertakes himself to compeer with him. The Chancellour hears of this, being then at Church, (the general time of Humiliation) and with a throng of people following him made after Huntley, but the King happily returning met them before, and brought them all to Edenburgh.

The Chanc. informs the K. whom Huntley opposes with a weak Defence for himself, whilest the Colonel escapes away, and never more seen. The King had a gracious inclination to Huntley, having very lately married him to a gallant Lady, of kin to the King,who is dismissed the Court. but dismissed him the Court untill the Spanish Navy was dissipated, and the general joy of that Defeat made all Friends at home.

Queen Elizabeth much pleased with the Kings fore-sight,Q. Elizabeths message. and with Maxwell's Commitment, and Huntley's Banishment, with other the like prudential Providences of the King, sends Sir Robert Sidney in August to congratulate his wisdom herein, and to conclude mutual assistance, in case the Spaniard should land on either Kingdoms: and discoursing of Spains ambition to seize on England, Sidney said, Your Majesty may be assured of the like kindness at his hand, if he prevailed. The King merrily answered, That he expected the same which Polyphemus promised to Ulysses, to devour him after his fellows: and so with great curtesie dismissed him, upon whose return home, another Messenger was sent with News of the Navies overthrow.

But not to sit down with the contrary of Caesar's Motto,The narration of the Spanish Navy. who no sooner came but he overcame, this Fleet no sooner seen but was sunk in the Sea; the wonder of the worlds apprehension, so invincible an Armado, must needs demonstrate to these Nations Gods gratious and powerfull arm in the overthrow; and though the main intent was against England, whose Prayers and Pens have often given the glory to their Redeemer; yet because some spoils of that wreck were cast on the Scots coasts, we may not refer the Reader without the Book to others relation.

[Page] This Discourse I finde imprinted anno 1688. suddenly set out by the Queen to rejoyce her Subjects with each particular, and published after by other Nations, in French, High Dutch, and Hollands.

The Introduction invites the Reader to a religious consideration of the promise and power of God to defend his Church and People, by Examples; Lamech (trusting to his sons inventions Iubal and Tubal-Cain) boasteth unto his Wives, that he would not take the least injury, but he would slay a strong man in his wound, and a young man in his hurt. Nimrod (in the second Age) hunting men like wilde beasts, erected a Tower to reach to Heaven, in pride and contempt of God. Nabuchadnezzar, Nicanor, and others the like.

It hath been frequent for the wicked to encourage themselves, and discourage the good, the one mighty in number, the last but few and weak; to that end tended the railing Rabshake the blasphemous Ambassadour, of the wicked Sennacherib; Make war (saith he to Eliakim) with my Master the King of Assyria, and I will deliver to thee two thousand Horse: Have any of the Gods of the Nations delivered their Land from the King of Assyria? Where are the gods of Hamath and Arphad? those of S [...]pharvaim and Ivah, that the Lord should deliver Ierusalem out of my hand?

Truly the Italian Lamech, and Spanish Nimrod, the Pope and Spain, the one by his Priestly practices, Bulls, Excommunications, Interdictions; the other by his several politick assaults heretofore not prevailing, now his Babels Towers, vast and high built Bulks, Gallions, Galliasses, appear, to amaze the World, and frighten Heaven it self: so that it may be urged in opposition to all, as by the sequel was said of Iehosaphat, We had no strength to resist so great a multitude coming against us, neither knew we what to do, but our eys were fixed on thee our Lord.

The first Squadron was of Gallions of Portugal, The number of particulars. wherein were ten Gallions and Zabres, amounting unto and imbarqued in them

7737 Tuns.

3330 Souldiers.

1230 Mariners.

350 Guns.

The Army of Biscay ten great Ships and four Pinnaces.

6567 Tuns.

2037 Souldiers.

868 Mariners.

260 Cannon.

[Page] The Army of Castile fourteen Gallions and two Pinnaces.

8714 Tuns.

2458 Souldiers.

1759 Mariners.

348 Guns.

The Army of Andelusia eleven Ships.

8762 Tuns.

2400 Souldiers.

800 Mariners.

260 Guns.

The Army of Guipeuzie fourteen Ships.

6991 Tuns.

2092 Souldiers.

670 Mariners.

250 Guns.

The Army of the East ten Ships.

7705 Tuns.

2880 Souldiers.

807 Mariners.

310 Guns.

The Army of Hulks.

7450 Tuns.

2804 Souldiers.

640 Mariners.

315 Guns.

The Pitaches and Zabres of Don Mendoza three & twenty Hulks.

10271 Tuns.

3221 Souldiers.

788 Mariners.

410 Guns.

The Squadron of Zaregosse two and twenty Pataches.

1131 Tuns.

479 Souldiers.

574 Mariners.

193 Guns.

The Galliasses of Naples four.

873 Souldiers.

468 Mariners.

1200 Slaves.

200 Guns.

[Page] The four Gallies.

400 Souldiers.

400 Slaves.

20 Guns.

Summa Totalis.

130 Ships.

20 Caravels.

10 Saluces with Oars.

for publick Service.

57868 Tuns.

19295 Souldiers.

8450 Mariners.

2088 Slaves.

2630 Guns.

The chief Officers were,

The Duke of Medina Sidonia Captain General.

Officers.

Iuan Martines de Ricalde Admiral.

Diego Flores General of the Army of the Gallions of Castile.

Don Piedro de Valdes General of the Army of Andalusia.

Michael de Oquendo General of the Army of Givopesque.

Martin Bretandona General of the Ships of the Levantines.

Gomer de Mendoza Commander of the Hulks.

Antonio Hurtado Commander of the Pitaches and Zabres.

Diego de Medrano Chief of the Gallies.

The numbers of thousands of Quintals of Biscuit, Pipes of Wine, Flesh and Fish, Rice, Beans, and Pease, Oyl, Vineger, the Carriages of War, and all manner of Provisions for Land-service, would amaze the Reade [...], and weary the Accountant, which was truly summed up and imprinted at Lisbone before the Fleet set out, being the 30th of May, 1588.

And afterwards there followed out of Lisbon towards the end of Iune, a supply of an Army of eighty Sail of Ships to joyn with the Armada.

Their design was to join with the Prince of Parma, Their Design with Parma. who was to meet them in the Narrow Seas, and so to invade England together, but whether he was kept in by the Hollands fleet, who assisted the English, or was not ready, or bribed, he came not forth at all.

The English had Pinnaces of intelligence,The first approach. that of long time before expected the Armado, who were detained by cross winds. The English Fleet anchored at Plymouth, and having sight of the Enemy, waited on them a loof, playing upon such as scattered or lagged hinmost; amongst whom was the Gallion of Don Pedro de Valdes, taken in fight, and sent to Plymouth. Another of [Page] Don Olenquo, Anno 1589. which took fire, but he was saved and sent Prisoner. The Galliass of Naples sunck in the sands of Callis, In which Road the Armado anchored, attending for Parma, but by a Stratagem of eight old Ships, fitted with all manner of combustable matte [...], the Ordinance charged with Bullets, Stones, Iron, and Chains, and fired at a reasonable distance (the wind and tide serving) they were carried in a flame upon the midst of the Enemies Fleet, at which time, the trains taking fire, it falling out to be night,Defeated by a S [...]ratagem, of fire ships. and so unexpected, that not able to weigh Anchors, they cut Cables, and in monstrous confusion sayled they knew not whether, without Order or Command, made to Sea, till the morning light ranged them in some Order, and sailed towards Graveling; but no Parma appearing, the English small Ships, swift and sure, chaced divers of them and sunck the great Gallions of Biscay. Two others of Portugall torn and tottered,Several Shipwracks, fell upon Flanders, and were taken by the Dutch, The General returned Soutward with such of his Ships best provided and arrived safe at Biscay in Spain. The rest of the Fleet, taking the Sea Northwards (in distress for Water and hindered with wind, ignorant also of those Seas and shoulds) that above 40. sayl were cast away on the Coasts of Scotland, the Isles Orkneys, and so round again Southward, between England and Ireland. As the great Ship of Florence, fell upon the West of Scotland, fired by the High-Landers. And of all the Numbers of Ships aforesaid, onely fifty five came safe to Spain, there were lost thirteen thousand five hundred Men and Mariners, and as themselves say,Great Losses. not a family of repute in all Spain, but suffered the loss of some kinsman, and in this fray but one English Ship, and one hundred men in all missing. So that what the Spaniard provided in four year, was thus far ruined in four Weeks, to the glory of God, and everlasting comfort of Great Britain.

The King on his part (first at Court; and afterwards through all his Kingdom) gave publique thanks to God for this good riddance of so formidable an Enemy.

Whether the Astrologers were in the right or wrong,prophecies. that foretold of Wonders to happen this year; and ment the success glorious to Spain; or whether the wonder was that they should be sunck in the Sea, as they were, certainly they writ of this and the succeeding years, full of fatallity, as in France it fell out more fearful. But for the Western Isles we felt none at all; and yet the effects were threatned by them upon all of us.

The Scots Catholiques were much amazed at this event,Scots Catholiques dis [...]ayed who Parma comforted with Letters, Intimating the loss not great, which should been the next Summer, by a fresh Fleet prepared [Page] before to succour these, which now joining, will soon make good all the defects of the former.

Robert Bruce brought this news to Huntley, to be communicated unto the rest of that faction, and some money was sent amongst them, but because Huntleys share was not parted proportionable to his desire, and desert, he grew cold in the cause, and in some discontent; the King took the advantage, and advised him to subscribe the Confession of Faith, and so was reconciled to the Church, and neglected by the other ever after.

But he was put upon it, to satisfy the Prince of Parma, and by letter,Huntly writes to Parma.

That after the escape of Semple, (as aforesaid) he was so beset by the Kings jealousies upon all his actions, that either he ought to yield, or to depart, or to have taken up forces to secure himself, which he was not then able to do, all hopes failing, with the evil hap of the Spaniards. But what had evil effect, he should endeavour to recover, by some good service for advance of the Catholique Cause. However God had put him in such good credit with the King, as that he hath altered his Guards, and added of his own friends, by whom he hopes to be assured, and at convenient time to be Master of the King. And so when the promised support shall arrive, he should be able to spoyl the Heretiques, and make sure for the Catholiques. Besought him to be perswaded of his unchangeable affection, though in outward shew he was forced to accomodate himself with the present time.

January 1589. Edenburgh.

Another such like was sent over from the Earl of Arrol (whom Hay the Iesuit had seduced)So doth Arrol.

That since his Conversion, he was obliged to advance the Catholique faith, and that Religion, the greatest and most important cause in the world, being now joined to another civil consideration of great affinity to the affairs at Home; He was therefore the more intirely obliged to his Catholique Majesty; and that in Scotland, His Highness had not a more affectionate Servant than,

ARROL.

And at the very same time,And so do Huntley, Crawford and Maxwell, other letters were sent by Huntley, Crawford, and Morton, (so did Maxwell stile himself in prison) to the King of Spain, when after their great regret, for the mischance of the Navy, they assure, that if it had visited them, it should not [Page] have found resistance in Scotland, and with their Support have assisted sufficient against England. The blame of all they lodged upon the English Catholiques refugers in Spain; who in enmity to others, did too much magnifie their own, as best able to do all. And therefore prayed his Majesty, not to over-countenance the one, to other neglect; but that the ends of all should aim at one. And then, remitting to the advise and Declaration of some of his own Subjects, lately returned from hence for several Commodious advantages, how and where to land an Army in Scotland, they proposed, that with six thousand Spanish, and money to levy as many more, they might within six hours arrival, be well advanced in England, to assist the forces that he should send thither. They advise him, not to make Armies by Sea, but to assign some of his forces to Scotland, others by the West of Ireland, towards England, and so the forces divided, part at Sea, others in Scotland, the enemy should be amused therewith; referring much more to the bearer Collonel Semples relation.

The Jesuits of Spain, Catholique Lords Rebell. tyred out of their plots and designs against England, resolved to work out their way by Sedition in Scotland, undermining the affections of any discontented parties, and so being put in muteny, they might easily restore their decaying Romistry. Industry and Secrecy would bring it about.

To that end were imployed Bruce (the old Lieger Jesuit) with Creighton and Hay, his former Comrades, to perswade Huntly (bastard son of Iohn the Prior of Coldingham, son of Iames the fifth King of Scotland) with Arroll, Crawford, and Bothwell, to force the King from the Chancellor and Treasureshands; and no difficulty to induce the people to resent their actions, supposing the King to be weary of such power about him, as reduced him to their dispose. The Faction of the English flesht with his Mothers death, in time would do so by him and his Friends; and no doubt these sufferings would soon justifie their rising to rescue him and the Realm from ruin; and no mention being made of Religion, the Country would be more calm, to resist their enterprize.

The meeting must be between Lieth and Edenburgh, Design how to meet. and so to Edenburgh, to settle themselves at Court about the King, kill the two Counsellers; Bothwel aboade at Crichton, and kept about him some Souldiers, whom he had seduced. Crawford and Arrol, with their Friends, came to the Ferry. Montross▪ stay'd six miles off; But Huntley came through, and the evening of the appointed time, assisted by Kinfawnes, brother to Crawford, and some of Arrolls servants, these filling the presence find the Chancellour with the King, with some of his Friends, Ormston, [Page]Carmichel, and others, who mistrusting, encompassed the Chancellor, and so he got forth.

The suspition and danger of some design intimated to the King, Huntley is sent for, examined, and committed to the Castle; which occasioned the company with Crawford and Arroll, to dissolve, and their design discovered.

And for not appearing before the Council, Arroll and Bothwell are denowned Rebells, Montross and Crawford submit, and Huntley left alone, does so too, and is permitted to go to his North Government. By the way he meets with Montross and Crawford, belay the way to surprize the Treasurer, and gave him chase to Brikel, where he was received, and they fire the House, and so forced to yield himself Prisoner, for some Weeks.

But thus prepared for the cause, they take arms again, close and undiscovered, till several Messengers bring newes to the King a Hunting, That Bothwell, Huntley, and others were marching. The King gathers such Forces as he could for the present; Bothwell (ever inconstant) retires to places of strength, and is left of his Men. Huntley goes on, surprizes Glams his Enemy, and Captain of the Guard; But at the Kings neerer approach, quits all, and lurks at home amongst the Rocks at Strathbolgie; but not safe from himself, his rebellious heart suspects the issue, and so submits to mercy, which was no worse than a Prison for the present, and afterwards he and his pardoned upon Petition.

Whilst these disorders were at home, their former Letters sent to the King of Spain, and to Parma, and some others also from Bruce, were intercepted by Q. Elizabeth, which laid open all the practices of the Lords.

And therefore she writes to the King, Queen Elizabeth writes to the King. Complaining of his remissness in punishing these Treacheries, and of his kindness to such of the Spaniards, that fled into Scotland, after their wreck at Sea; she besought him, not to delay opportunity to punish the Offenders, and to rid the Realm of such Strangers.

Hereupon they were shipped over towards West Flanders, and by the way, were met a league from that Coast, by some Hollanders, set out to intercept them, who boarded one ship, putting all the Spaniards to the sword, the rest ran their ships a ground, and most of the Men pittifully drowned.

A Proclamation issued out against all Iesuits remaining, Proclamations against Jesuits who join with the Rebels. and Hay, Creighton, Bruce and Graham, expressly commanded to depart, upon pain of death; but they inticing [Page] Huntley, Crawford and Arroll, take arms together, came to Aberdeen in April, and declare,

That the King is kept Captive, requiring all good Subjects to join for relief and freedom of the people.

They depended on Bothwell, and his Forces in the South, whom the King proclaimed Rebels. And for the present marches against the Earls as far as Cowry, neer Aberdeen, where he was told, that the enemy was three thousand strong, and hastning to meet the King.

The King put to the straight, The King incourages his forces. cheers up his Company, That they had the better cause, and himself in person to suffer with them, against such, whose conditions could never be wrought upon, by benefits or good deeds, to make them loyal; assist me therefore as you shall find me forward, rather for you, than for my self.

Thus resolved, Hamilton and Angus differ for the honour of the Vant-guard; Angus claiming the place by privilege, heretofore granted to his Predecessors; Hamilton argued his neerness to the Blood Royall; who carried it by the Kings favour.

But the next Morning discovers the Enemy dispersed, for fear or favor to the Kings person, to which respect Crawford condescended;Commission▪ ers sent to [...]etch the K. Bride from Denmark. but Arroll earnest to fight, and they refusing, he parted from them at, Dee Bridge, and the King returns to Edenburgh. And there in some assurance, he disposes his affairs for consumating his mariage with Denmark, and to bring his Bride into Scotland.

The Earl Marshall had the Commission, assisted in Company with the Lord Dingwell, Sir Iames Seringeour, Mr. Iohn Sheen, Advocate, and Mr. Young, Arch-deacon of St. Andrews. And for the more honorable defraying the expence, a subsidy of a hundred thousand pounds (punds I conceive) was granted by the Council (by a former Warrant of Parliament 1587.) and sudden payment was made, by the well-willing Subjects, earnestly desiring a Mariage for the issue of Royal Succession in his Race.

Against this time of publique joy,Rebells submit, and are committed. the Rebels humbly submit to Justice, and were impannell'd before the Earls of Hamilton, Angus, Morton, Athol, Mar and Marshall, four Lords, and four Lairds.

1. They were charged for practising with Jesuits, and others, against the Religion; receiving money from Spain, and therewith raising forces.

2. That they had confederacy with Arroll, Montross, and others, and treasonably surprized Perth.

3. That they conspired to imprison the King, to murder Maitland and Thirlstan, Counsellors of State.

[Page] 4. For besieging the house of Kirkhill, firing that house, and imprisoning the Lord Treasurer Glams.

5. And convocated by Proclamation, the Kings liege people against his Majesty.

6. They opposed the Kings forces and his Person at Dee.

7. They seized the Kings Herauld, and rifled his Letters.

8. And the last concerned only Bothwell, for entertaining Strangers, and others, at Dalkieth, forcing the Town of Lieth.

They were adjudged guilty, but the sentence suspended; Crawford committed to Blackness, Bothwel to Tantallon, and Huntley to Edenburgh Castle.

We may wonder,Ministers make work. why the Ministers are missing in all these broyls; and now the Assembly convened at Edenburgh, the King desired them to afford him Patrick Galloway to attend his Court. They (now) acknowledge his Majesties Power to command, and his grace and favour to acquaint them with his pleasure.

A good beginning of their duty and obedience, not long lasting: For the King having given his Kinswoman (The Duke of Lennox Sister) the last year in mariage to Huntley, and the Bishop of Saint Andrews celebrating the same, was then censured by the Acts of their Church; the Bishop not acknowledging their power against his Majesties command, they pronounce and deprive him of all function in the Church, and ratifie the judgement to be proclaimed in publick.

This troubles the King, and in fear of more disquiet was fain to suffer their Sentence, and to make peace with all and remits, the imprisoned Lords to liberty; for now he hears that the Mariage is accomplished by Proxie, The King [...] design to meet his Queen in Norway. and the Queen at Sea; when lo, an unlookt-for message, that the Navy of her Conduct was driven by Tempest into Norway, where she should stay till the Spring. But his affection over-mastering all difficulties, he resolves to hasten a Scotish fleet and fetch her home himself.

And to shadow his purpose from any home distempers,The cause and maner therof. he pretends to send the Chancellour and Iustice Clark in Commission to her. But the ships fitted, he in private sets sail in October, leaving a direction to the Council, for Government of his Kingdom, under his own hand-writing, thus.

To satisfy some, concerning himself, and to take off suspition of blame upon others; he shews them the Causes, and the reason of the manner. It hath been conceived over-long (saith he) to defer my [Page] Mariage, being alone, without Father, Mother, Brother or Sister, and yet a King of this Realm, and heir to another, which nakedness made him weak, and his Enemies strong. For one is no number, and where no succession, contempt follows. And my delay thus long may beget a suspition of impotency; nor am [...] over rash, or passionate, without reason to direct me, but the treaty made perfect, I resolved of a Bridegrooms honor, to make it possible on my part, which was not on hers to perform to me.

For the manner, I first intended the voyage to the Admiral Bothwell; which miscarried upon his Miscarriage. Then I commended it to the Chancellour, who in truth and prudence, made some difficulty for the State to furnish a Fleet, seeing the Queen was there provided; but zealous of my service offered his duty and obedience, which I made publick, reserving my resolution only to my self; not that I varied from his Counsel, as in my weightier affairs heretofore I valued; but to cleer him from advising me this way, with hazard of my person; and which indeed had not become any Counsellor to have done. And because his wisdom, enabled me in my youth, to what I did, it might still reflect also on my weakness, to be wanting to my self, and suffer him to act all, to the Malice and envy of others, and so in pitty to heap no more slanders on him, I made this work my own without injury to any.

Besides what I have said, the short passage, and safety from Seas and Sands, without Peril of Pyrates, (for other enemies I have uone) conclude that it is my pleasure; that all conform to my directions in my absence (God willing) not twenty daies,

Farewel, Iames Rex.

This Declaration was the next day after he was shipt, presented by Hay Clerk of Register to the Council, together with the directions hereafter.

Seeing it hath pleased God to bring Us to the age of Manhood,with further direction [...]. and that nothing hath been more earnestly desired, by our good subjects, than to have Us honourably matched, that the Crown might descend to our Su [...]cession after so many worthy Progenitours. And so setting down the course of his Treaties, with Frederick King of Denmark, lately deceased, and contracted by Proxie with his Daughter, who in her voyage to Scotland, was by storms driven to Norway, willing rather to winter there, than to return back. This hazard so far adventured, it becomes him in Kingly honour and affection to relieve so great a Princess from so long time of sadness; and to associate [Page] her Consortship with his presence, and (God willing) to return back in twenty daies.

We hope no man will seem to regret upon our pleasure and purpose, seeing the Kingdom hath wanted a Governour longer than we now intend by our absence; from the Death of our Grand-mother the Queen Regent, unto the arrival of our Dearest Mother out of France, fourteen Moneths, and the State in that time more happy in Peace and Quietness, than before or since, and yet we have and do Ordain.

That our Council remain at Edenburgh, What Lords shall govern and how. and the Duke of Lenox our Nephew, Pre [...]ident thereof, assisted by our Cosin Francis Earl of Bothwel, together with our Treasurer, Controwler; Master of Requests, Privy Seal, the Captain of the Castle of Edenburgh, Advocate and Clark Register, or five at the least of them.

Then he ordains several Noblemen in their Courses to attend at Edenburgh for fifteen daies, Anguss, Athol, Fleming and Innerness to begin; The next course to be by the Earl Mar and Morton, Seaton, and Yester, the Barons of Lothian, Fi [...]e, Shrivelingshire and Strathern.

The South to be commanded by the Lord Hamilton, Lieutenant General, to be assisted by the Lords Maxwel, Boyd, Herris, Hume, Cesford, and to reside at Dunfres or Jedbrough.

Finally he recommended the Church to peace and quietness, and to discharge all Conventions, and other Assemblies till his return, and not to fail to remember him in their dayly prayers for his safety and happy return.

And thus, having settled affairs at home, he imbarks with Maitland, the Chancelour, Ballendine, Iustice Clark, Dowglas, and the Gentlemen of his Bed-chamber and honshold Servants, and Lindsey his Minister, and [...]rrived neer Upsto in Norway within five daies after.

The Sunday following he did solemnize the Mariage,He maries the Queen. and the ceremony was performed by Lindsey in French, and because of the Winter season, he was invited by Ambassadours, to visit the Queen Mother, and her Son Christern King of Denmark, elect.

The King,And goes forward to Denmark. Queen and Train set forward the two and twenty December, from Upsto, and came to Bahouse, a Castle bordering Norway and Sweden the 1. of Ianuary. where he staied seven daies for a Convoy from that King then at Stockholm, and was met with a Troop of four hundred horse upon the Frozen River, and so to Denmark, the next day to Westbury five daies, thence to Falhenburgh, Holmstade, Cowhalm, Elsingburgh, and the 21. of Ianuary received by Queen Mother (at Crownenburgh) the [Page] young King,Anno 1590. the Duke of Holstat his Brother, and the four Regents of the Realm, with all possible magnificence.

There he remained till the end of February, and being to give honour to the Nuptials of his Queens eldest Sister with Duke Brunswick to be in April next,And returns to Scotland. he advertiseth his Council, the reason of his stay, and sends for shipping to return, which were six, arriving at Elsenore in the middle of April, and landed the King, Queen and Company at Lieth, the twentieth day of May.

Not without the general opinion that the Witches in the blind Light of the Gospel usually trading for Devilish Money, had his help, to hinder the meeting before; which now (notwithstanding) prospered well by the Kings presence (so it was ascribed.)

It being confirmed also afterwards, That Bothwell had inquired of them, the Kings fortune, which by Law was made Treason.

Queen Elizabeth congratulates the Nuptials by her Emissary Edward Seymor Earl of Worcester, with the honor of the Garter, as she had done to the French King.

In whose absence (a wonder to all) that no insurrection, or feud, had been in publique or private (unless two petty Riots by Wachop and Clangregore) nay, Bothwell so reclaimed, that in true sense of his former debaucheries, does voluntary penance, and confession in the publique Church. But this resolution lasted not long, for he returns to the vomit, to his utter undoing hereafter.

The Bishops absent,The Queens Coronation by a Minister. Bruce performs the Ceremony of the Queens Coronation, a Iewish rite sayes the Ministers, abolished at Christs comming, and introduced by the Pope, and not to be used.

Certainly that ceremony had not been used by the Jews only, and being mentioned in Iudges (by Parable) shews it was a custome in creating Kings; and frequent with other Nations. Hasael of Aram, was annointed by Elias; and Esay calls Cyrus of Persia, Gods annointed. Nor was every rite (if introduced by Papists) to be rejected. Seeing therefore all free Monarchs use the same, their annointing was as justifiable as their Crowning, with other ceremonies of Sword and Scepter. But rather than a Bishop should profane the office, and that one of themselvs be the first Minister Presbyter that ever sanctified that ceremony, they were content that Bruce should do it, on Sunday following at Edenburgh, & 2 daies after she made her triumphant entry through the Town, with Feasts and Banquets, Masks and shews for two moneths together.

These popish proceedings in Scotland, makes Queen Elizabeth [Page] more serious at home, both Kingdomes involved in the like danger; which to prevent, she falls upon such as gave most suspition, and having restrained Philip Howard Earl of Arundell, for three years in the Tower, to keep him out of the way of doing mischief, she now conceives it more safe to take him quite away from further danger.

He is arraigned therefore at Westminster; E. of Arundel arraigned in England. The Earl of Darby, High Steward for the day. His accusations were such of which usually the greater Catholiques are guilty, and being confirmed by Cardinal Allan (before his banishment) Parsons and other Jesuits with whom he kept correspondence, viz. for reducing Papistry here, proved by his Letters, and the confessions of several Traytors lately executed, Savage, Throgmorton, Babington, Gerrard and Shelles.

But the Bull of Sixtus Quintus deposing the Queen,Popes Bull. and so the Legacy of these Realms bequeathed to the Spaniard, together with his devotions, prayers and Masses for successe of the Armado the last year 88. was the Choak-Pear, which could not be relished.

His tender years thirty three, not able to defend innocency, in opposition to those excellent Pleaders Popham, Egerton, Scutleworth, men of admiral abilities in the law, made him submit to their arguments,Condemned, with some palliation and excuse, not sufficient to save him from sentence of guilt; which he received with submission, saying, Fiat Voluntas Dei. His request was eas [...]e, to see his Wife and young Son,& pardoned. born since his imprisonment, whom he left to the Queens favour, which was effected to the Fathe [...] also, with pardon of his life, though she kept him up from doing harm.

The loss of the Spanish Fleet and credit last year,English expedition to Portugal, incourages two gallant Undertakers, Sir Iohn Norris, and Sir Francis Drake, with the convenient assistance of the Queens men of War, to an expedition into Portugall, with eleven thousand Souldiers, and fifteen hundred Mariners.

It was not amiss to take up the Claim, and to take in the person of Don Antonio (base born) Prior of Cra [...]o, to the Kingdom of Portugall, upon his vain expectation of that nations revolt from Spanish thraldom, and assistance of the King of Morocco, all which failed.

They land at the Groyne, land at the Groyne. take and drown it, burn the villages thereabout, with slaughter of the Spanish forces three miles chace, and imbarque again for Portugal, where they land and march sixty miles to Lisbone, over against the sacred Promontory St. Vincent, where they feign there are certain Mares at a set time conceive by the Wind,Col [...]mella, & Pl [...]ni [...]. and bring forth Foals, who live but three years; several Authors say so.

[Page] The Suburbs of this City abandoned, they enter and intrench, whilst Drake undertakes to pass up the River to the City; but he failing upon the shallowness of the Water, and danger of the Castles, no Natives comming in to their design, and the Calanture, infecting their Fleet, they return with honour upon the enemy, but loss of six thousand men by sickness, to which the Northern people are subject, and by contraries the Southern are rather confirmed in the North. Inward heat being remitted or intended by outward air, as by sad experience of Iohn of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster in R. 2. and the Marquess Dorset 1512. and this now.

We call it the Earl of Essex Expedition, who indeed, ambitious of common Fame, put himself to sea, and got aboard the Fleet, conceiting that their respect to his birth and quality, would receive him their chief, but was mistaken in that honour, though he carried all the commendations with the comman man, as titles get advantage from the merit of others, more deserving, though I know this comment upon that Lord, gains little credit in these our daies.

With this honour of assisting the distressed Portugall, the Q. assumed an interest in others her Allies, to ballance her common Enemy the Spaniard, and his Catholique cause, as it fell out forthwith in France and Nava [...].

For the French King Henry the third,Navars title to France. not likely of issue, that Kingdom was to descend to the King of Navar, and afterwards to the Prince of Conde, both Protestants; whereupon the Catholique Peers of France combine a Holy League, Not to permit a Reformed Professour to reign, Holy Leagu [...]rs no though he renounce it, l [...]st he rechange his Religion with his State. This design was to exclude Navar and Conde.

The fortunate Successes of the Duke of Guise, the chief of this Villany, magnifies him above the King, who in jealousie of surprize by the multitude, retires from Paris to Bloys, where his necessity forces him to consent to the Holy League, and ruine of the Religion, and Guise to be Generallissimo, and all this under Seal, and receipt of the Sacrament. But repenting of what he had done,Gui [...]es [...]r [...]hred. caused Guise in the Presence Chamber to be run thorow, his Brother Cardinal to be strangled, and his Son Cardinal Bourbon, and others of the League, to be committed.

Hence followed a various Rebellion, the people at liberty to do what they list; and several Cities affecting several Governments, Democracy, Aristocracy, Oligarchy, few or none Monarchy.

The Leaguers get possessession of the Crown Revenues, a new Seal, Henry 3. mur [...]hered. share the strong Holds, are joyn'd with some Parliaments, [Page] and all the Cleagie, who cause one of their Monks, Iaques Clement, to murther the King.

The first Murther, and first occasion of that damnable Docctrine of the Iesuits to murther Kings, Justified by the Pope. which the Pope Pius Quintus stiles, Rarum, in [...]gne, & memorabile, non sine Dei particulari providentiâ & Spiritus Sa [...]cti suggestione designatum, & longè majus esse, quam illud sanctae Judith, qu [...] Holo [...]ernam è medio su [...]uli [...]. The Iesuit Francis Verona Constantinus in his Apologie for Iohn Casteelin, &c. C [...]m e [...] tempore, &c. that King being become intolerable, it was not lawfull de jure or de fa [...]to, [...]o condemn this Act of Clement, by reason of King Henries tyranny in Church and State, for his horrid Murders at Bloys, oppression of Catholicks, and favour to Hereticks, and so became a private man subject to the Civil and Canon Law. Besides, (says he) this act was lawfull, being committed upon him, from whom all obedience and alleageance of his Subjects were taken away by the Pope.

Platina, another Historian, makes it the common opinion, E [...]m (Clement) à nemine ad hoc factum subordinatum, [...]ed à [...]eipso po [...]tquam duabus aut tribus mensibus in hoc animi conceptu persever [...]verat ad hoc arduum opus permotum esse & instigatum; post jejunia longa, post orationes ad Deum continuas sese certissimum hoc periculum adiisse, in vitâ Quinti, pag. 180.

But Marian a Spanish Jesuit says, Clement had often premeditated with himself, and imparted it to [...]ome Divines, who concluded it lawfull for any man to kill a King that is a Tyrant. Mar. Lib. de rege et Regis Institutione cap. 6. pag. 53. though the Council of Constance possitively forbids it.

The Leaguers banish Navar from the Crown and Kingdom, and differ about election of a King, for though divers were in dispute, they (with some Justice in Rebellion) elect Cardinal Bourbon, (a degree neerer to the Crown, than Navar) and released him out of Pri [...]on to the Throne. And the Duke de Maine a pretender, is pleased to be Lieutenant General of France, who instantly intends to surprize Navar (proclaimed likewise King of France) at Diep, or drive him out of all.

Navar implores Q. Elizabeth, profers league with her offensive and defensive;Q. Elizabeth aids Nava [...]. [...]he, in reverence to Religion, and pitty of his distre [...]s, sends him twenty thousand pounds in Gold, by which he kept his Stipend [...]aries, Germans and Swisse from revolt; some ammunition, and four thousand men, conducted by the Lord Willoughby, with four Collonels, Wilford, Burroughs, Drury, and Baskervile. The [...]ame of the Queen interessed, and these mens valour, discomfited the Enemy, the day before their landing, who fled with bag and baggage to Paris, and are pursued by the English and French, who take divers pieces in Normandy, and return home.

[Page] The King of Spain this while, lay gaping after these distempers, fomented by Mendoza his Ambassadour, and Cardinall Cajetan the Popes N [...]ncio, not without their insolent proposition to nominate Spain Protector of the French Catholiques, Spain interessed. with such Prerogatives to boot, as he enjoyes over Naples and Sicily, of bestowing all Offices Ecclestiastical and Civil; By which the French themselves foresaw his ambition, to promote their Religion, with loss of their Reason.

Thus stood the State of France, distracted, Navar unsettled, war increasing, which hindred the Queens design to promote a Match between the King of Scotland; and Katherine Navars Sister, as defensive interests in Religion to counter with the Catholiques, and therefore she had advised the King to mary himself to his [...]king (for Katherines years was with the most, and her means with the least) which she understood was settled a year since on Ann the Daughter of Frederick the second King of Denmark.

But Navar she protects with great sums of money,As [...]i [...]ts France with more money. 101560,071165,020000,033333.226058. Crowns. she had len [...] him not three years [...]ince, a hundred and one thousand five hundred and sixty French Crowns, wherewith he levyed his German Souldiers.

And the last year, seventy and one thousand one hundred sixty five more.

It cost her twenty thousand Willoughbyes expedition.

And now this year she lends him thirty three thousand [...] hundred thirty three more, to muster an Army in Germany, and as much more she spent for sudden service. Thus much for France.

Every two moneths she paid to the Garrisons of Flushing and Brill one hundred and five and twenty thousand [...]orins. And the Dutch. 125000.260000.385000. Florins. And two hundred and threescore thousand more, to 3000 horse and foot in service with the Low Countre [...].

Besides other Sums of mass expence, at home, and her own expeditions by Sea, and in Ireland by Land.

Whether these moneys are mistaken by Historians figures, the addition of a Cipher multiplying the same, otherwise they are incredible; but indeed this was the way to dy poor, for she was much in debt.

But she was not nice in Husbanding her expence to good purpose, or in providing for the main, by extraordinary waies; for she was sometime put to shifts then,See after, as well as her Successor since; and by the Customer Carmardines intimation of the value of Commodities,She raises her Custom-Farm. she raised her Farmer, Sir Thomas Smith, from the rent of her Customs of fourteen thousand pounds sterling annually, to two and forty thousand, and after to fifty thousand. This gain was not put up to his own purse no doubt, [Page] for the Lord Treasurer, and Leicester, and Walsingham opposed Carmardine; whether of intercepting their Bribes therin, or disparagement of their judgment and care, not to finde it out themselves.

By her bounty to France,She ballanc [...]h her neighbour interests. she kept off the Spaniard from hence; her own judgment, that the end of France its ruine would be the Evening to England, contrary to others opinion, that now the cantoning of France by the Spaniard, Leaguers, and particular Pretenders, she might put in for her share, Picardy, Normandy, or Brittain; but she kept them off from others.

For the Duke of Parma for his Catholick Majesty had run through Picardy, called in by the Leaguers, to relief of the Rebellion at Paris, and Io: de Aquila of Spain invited into Brittain, to settle of pretension of the Duke Mercoeur to that Dutchy.

Queen Elizabeth looks upon this dangerous Neighbourhood, and speedily she resolves of three thousand men into Picardy and Brittain; and it was time to prevent the growing power of Spain admitted now into Paris, who vouchsa [...]ed their lawfull Sovereign no other Title but King of Bern, but the Spaniard as their Lord and King; the Pope also lent some Switz to the aid of the Leaguers, against whom the Queen proclames it Treason, to assist them by any Traffick.

This Assembly of the Church now in Iune, The Assembly petition the King. petitioned the King▪

1. For establishing the Churches Iurisdiction, and abolishing all Acts to the contrary.

2. For purging the Realm of Iesuits and Papistry.

3. For providing Maintenance of Ministers out of the Tyths, and the Remain to the Support of Schools, and the Poor, and Repair of Churches.

For the first,His Answer and advice to suppress [...]e [...]d [...] the entrance into the Acts of Parliament, always provide for the Church.

For the second, he had already done it in part, and would willingly perfect that Work.

And the last, was committed to Commissioners of their own and others.

But to conclude, the King advised them their duty, as Peacemakers on earth, by Preaching and Practice, to remove the barbarous differences which the feuds of the Nation dayly foment, and which by their former encouragements, for private ends, had been taken up so customarily, as became national; that their godly care, for reconciling such variances, might amend that Crime, grown to that height as was abominable to all strangers. I shall do my part, (said he) and if you apply your pains, my work will be the more easie, and the success effectual.

[Page] And truly thence-forward such a course was taken, that in future all those damnable feuds were quite abolished by this King.

Though for the present it prevailed not between the Earls Huntley and Murray in the North;Huntley and Murray quarrel. Iohn Gordon married to Widow Grant, one of his Servants, in private quarrel was killed by another of hers, whom Gordon pursues, and for not appearing, is pronounced Rebell, and Commission to Huntley, to apprehend him, in a house of the Grants; he takes it by force, but findes not the Fellow.

This was ill taken by that Family, who fly to the protection of the Earl Murray, with whom adjoyn the Clanchattons and Dunbars. Huntley advertised that Murray and Athol were to confederate with those Glamis in Forres, intends to dissolve that knot, ere it were hard bound; but before he came, they fever themselves, and Murray returns to Yarnwall; Huntley's way lay by the House, and some of his men braving thereabout, they within discharge some Shot, which killed Gordon, and for which Huntley invades the other with Forces, and Murray assisted by Arroll his Cosin, prepare to defend. These tidings came to the King, whose command separates each one to his own home, which served the turn for a time, but brake out in disorder after.

Another of the same nature;Another of the Kers. an antient emulation of the Kers, the one of Cesfords Family, the other of Farnherst, for the Wardenry of the Middle Marches and the Provostry of Iedbury, which the Heir of Farnherst, William Ker, a young Spark, maintains to the death; and in a Trial of Theft before the Council for English Goods stollen, it was taken as done in spleen, and derogate to the honour of Sir Robert Ker of Cesford, the Fellow being his follower. The lady Cesford (of an haughty heart) never ceased peuling, until her Son had basely murthered the other. These were men of good repute, wise, and of great courage, and of much loss to the Borders, the one dead, the other undone, who fled for his life, until he made a large satisfaction for maintenance of the fatherless children, and by Marriage with the Chancellours Niece came again to his Family, and into favour.

We have hinted heretofore of the Northern Nations much inclining to Witchcraft,Witches accuse Bothwel. and in Scotland those of great Families: this Winter produced many Examinations, Agnes Simson (the wife of Kieth) a Matron of a grave and settled behaviour, she declared, that her Familiar appeared in a visible form, and resolved her doubts, concerning the Life or Death of any; she used to call him Holla Master, (Ho la? in Spanish, Who is there?) as he directed her; and confessed, that Bothwell bid her inquire of the Kings Reign, Life and Death, whom the Devil undertook to destroy, but failing, confessed to her, not to be in his power, [Page] speaking words in French, which she understood not, but could repeat them, Il est homme de Dieu.

Another, one Richard Graham, confessed the like against Bothwell, who is committed to Prison and escapes. which was the cause of his Commitment; out of which he escapes by corrupting his Keeper, and so far guilty, hath his Doom of Forfeiture, and is denounced Traitor; the Proclamation speaks, That he, being tender in bloud to the King, and further advanced in Honors and Offices above his Birth; having heretofore in an unnatural humor committed Slaughters, raised Arms against his Majesty, and practised with strangers against the Religion, and whereof his Conviction in May, 1589. was superseded in hope of amendment, but since, heaping Treasons, he concluded with the consult of Witches, against the Kings Life, as by confession of sundry persons appears; and for all being committed, he hath broken Prison, and thereby taken these Crimes upon him, which concludes him a Traitor. But he enters band with the Lord Hume and others, and being forsaken flies into England, his secret Harbours, till next year.

The Archbishop of St. Andrews lies Bed-rid,Archbish. of St. Andrews die [...], and fallen into some wants by mis-government, the Presbyters (like Crows about Carrion, the common way of the Romish Catholicks to procure Proselytes) labour him to leave some Lines under hand, his opinion of matters of Discipline; they form his words, That he did not trouble himself then with thoughts of that nature, and abused by the Ministery. and had never allowed of any other Bishop of the Church but St. Paul's Bishop, to which he would sign. And so Articles were drawn framed to their Design, which he subscribed; but whether in truth he did so, or some for him, or that their charity (seldom upon better terms) wrought upon his necessity, or weakness of his spirits, the Recantation came forth in publick, of which injury he complained, and committing his cause to Gods justice, died, the end of this year, and accounted a man of some scale in Learning, as they seldom want to account of themselves, one commending another, if he dies a Proselyte to them. But presently that Church falls into Schism: several Assemblies to compose Dissentions set up several Superintendents in one Presbytery (or Popedom) the Lay Parishioners siding with each Faction, and coming to the question, most Voyces pretended best interest; but the other had gotten a new Paradox, Quod suffragia essent ponder anda non numeranda: and yet to end strife, they part stakes, and divide the Presbytery; the one to sit at Cowper, the other at St. Andrews. I mention this for a Note, That of all men none could worse endure parity, and loved more to command, Secretary Walsingham dies, his Character. than these which introduced it into the Church.

We have had to do with Secretary Walsingham of England, and may not forget to take our leave of him also, that lived not out this year.

He was industrious, wise and religious, a searcher in the secrets and [Page] mysteries of all States; he had an art in past imitation, to dive into mens dispositions, and something for polite service, screw simple Proselytes beyond common danger; his Preferment no higher than Secretary and Chancellour of the Duchy of Lancaster, and with Honour of the Garter; his profuse expence for Intelligence abroad and at home, kept him under compass during life, and dying so poor that they buried him by dark in St. Paul's Quier.

Another of the same, And so does Randolph, Sir Thomas Randolph so near in time, that Death might do it with one Dart, He was bred a Civilian, and taken from Pembroke College in Oxford to Court, from thence his Imployments were forein Embassies, thrice to the Peers in Scotland, and thrice to the Queen, 18. times Embassadour abroad. seven times to King James, and thrice to Basilides Emperour of Russia, once to Charls the Ninth of France, and again to Henry the Third, he was advanced to the Office of Chamberlain in the Exchequer, and to be Master of the Ports, the first formerly of great profit, the later not so, till these last times of ours, which we make of immense gain, but he was rich of children, and therefore (in my Lord Bacons opinion) poor in Purse, he had leave to retire some time before his Death, to which his advice to Walsingham, to leave the Tricks of a Secretary as himself would, the deceis of an Ambassadour.

Sir Henry Wootton afterwards observed as much, who could example with the most, Hoc tandem didici (says he) animas sapientiores [...]ieri quiescendo.

To accompany these of the Gown, And the [...]. of Shrewsbury [...]dies. died that gallant man at Arms George Talbot created Earls by Henry the Sixth, and he the sixth Earl of Shrewsbury, who in Queen Maries Reign with three thousand Foot in the Scotish Wars, rescued the Earl of Northumberland at Lowick, he was of the appointed Guard of that Queen whilest here in Prison, and succeeded the Duke of Norfolk and Marshal of England, and in much honour for fifteen yeas together, to his Death; at Burdeaux his Predecessour in the time of Henry the Sixth hath on his Tomb this large Title.

Iohn Talbot Earl of Shrewsbury,An Epitaph. Washford, Waterford, and Valence, Lord Talbot of Goodrich and Orchinfield, Lord Strange of Blackmore, Lord Verdon of Acton, Lord Cromwell of Wingfield, Lord Lovetoft of Warsop, Lord Franifall of Sheffield, Lord Falconbridg, Knight of the Noble Order of the St. George St. Michael, and the Golden Fleece, great Marshal to King Henry the Sixth of France, and died in the Battail of Burdeaux, 1453. These he had, and deserved more by the French Chronicle.

Orock Roe of noble birth in Ireland, Irish Rebells. and by the Sir-name Mack-Mahon (being purchased by might or right) seem'd to privilege him in any tyranny over the People, for which he was hanged; his next Neighbour Brian Orock in Brenny for fear of the like, turned Traitor, and being pursued by Bingham President of Connaught, [Page] flies into Scotland, but was delivered to Queen Elizabeths command, and executed for the ease of the King, esteeming her Enemies his; and caused Mack-Conel to give caution, not to nourish Sedition by correspondence of the Hebrides and Orcades.

The Spaniard nourished Rebellions in Ireland, the Queen protected the French against him,Essex expedition into France with 4000. who by the Duke of Parma was got into Picardy, and his other Forces in Brittany; wherefore she sends over four thousand (covenanted at her cost, but for two moneths) under conduct of the Earl of Essex, and land at Diepe, expecting to joyn with the Kings Forces, who came not in any reasonable time, when they did, it was too late to do much service, yet they besiege Roan, to no effect: the English wasted, the Queen displeased, she sends for Essex, but leaves the remain of his men to the command of Sir Roger Williams.

The Reformed Churches of Christendom increased number and repute, by pious Doctrine and Discipline, much to the prejudice of the Romish Catholicks, that mightily opposed the publick peace of the Church, and certainly had Satans help to boot, to undermine the mindes of some more fiery zealous Professours, that took the poor peoples affections with their seeming devout carriage; and this way the Devil in [...]inuates; to heighten their pride and self-conceited holiness with some pricks in the flesh, and buffetings of Satan, every day producing Examples of divers kindes in several places.

At this time more remarkable in the person of one Hacket in London, Hackets horrible Tenents and Treasons. illiterate and insolent, (seldom separate) and poor, who becomes suddenly seemingly holy, and by degrees, into that cheating way, to be inspired with the evil spirit of Revelations.

He used (says an Author) a strange and monstrous form and manner of praying, falling upon his face sometimes, as if in an exta [...]ie, otherwhile expostulating with God himself; another kinde of prayer he used, ordinary and familiar; for as other mens devotions and ejaculations aim at the obtaining the sweet comfort of Gods heavenly presence, he would in his hottest zeal intreat, and as it were force upon God to depart from him, and not assist such sinfull creatures, which manner of prayer most of his own Disciples construed the effect of his rare and excessive humility; and so, as a rare Example, might finde charitable censure; yet it was to be adjudged in him, (as in truth it falls out frequent with some in these our last times) the voice not of man, but Satan dictated onely to him from that evil spirit that possest him, for so his end discovered it in him.

He confederates,Mad-headed Hypocrites. (the Devil goes by Legions) with Wiginton a Genevan Minister, Copinger a Gentleman, and Arthington (like the Fool in the Comedy, a Lay admirer) to be called by God to [Page] prophesie to the people,Anno 1591. and alter the English to the Genevan Discipline, printing in Prose and Dog-rythm what was fit to seduce others; and Hacket, as the most proper person, must be Arch Prophet. But see how Satan brings it on, Copinger and Arthington (Knave and Fool) tell Wiginton of Christ's appearing to them, (spiritually) by Dreams and by Visions, that Hacket was that Angel, with his Fan and Hook to separate Sheep from the Goats, overcome Satan and Antichrist, and then follows the Day of Iudgment.

These prostrate themselves before Hacket in earnest prayer, and he skips out of his Bed, joyns his devotion with acknowledgment of his own divine nature, and so seems in a Trance, whilest Arthington bids Copinger in the name of Christ to annoint Hacket with the Holy Ghost and make him King, kissing the Ground with bended knee, and other reverence; but he with careless gesture refuses, being (as he said) already anointed by the Holy Ghost; Go forth, (says he) preach of me, that Iesus Christ is come with his Fan to judg the World, if they believe not, let them come and kill me.

At the instant,His disciples, (the Devil driving) they all in fury fly abroad, and cry out, Christ is come, repent, repent; that Hacket had a body truly glorified, to constitute a new Discipline and Common-wealth, that they were his Prophets of mercy, and others of judgment, for perfecting his work. And this they declared by Vows, Protestations of salvation to be all true: that he was sole Monarch of Europe, and all Kings his Vassals, and the Queen to be deposed: and so, with a preass of people, they return home to Hacket, who were apprehended,apprehended, and are insolent before the Privy Council.

Hackets Crimes were condemned as Treason, for the Devil prompt him to confess so much, with such horrid Blasphemies as I tremble to relate. He seems not as distracted, but with settled gravity and temper:his blaspemy, and in the way to Execution he cries out fearfully, Iehova Messias, Iehova Messias, behold, the Heavens open, Thou Son of God come down and deliver me. And at the Gallows he roars out, Thou God I [...]hova, Iehova, Alpha and Omega, &c. Thou knowest that I am the true, &c. whom thou hast sent, &c. Shew some Miracle from the Clouds to deliver me from these accursed; if thou wilt not, then will I, &c. (horrid) Fire the Heavens, and with these hands pull, &c. from thy Throne: nay, worse than can be imagined; then turns to the Hangman, who hastned the Halter, Thou Bastard, (says he) wilt thou hang the King of Kings? and facing Heaven, cried out, Is this my reward for my Kingdom bestowed? &c. Behold I come and will revenge, and execution. &c. the rest. Throttled with the Rope, he was immediately cut down fresh alive and quartered. Copinger stervs himself to death in Prison: the others repent and are pardoned.

[Page] On the other side, the Iesuits were lurking in every corner, Emissaries from several Seminaries, Rome, France, and especially from Spain; against them therefore, Proclamations forbid any man to be entertained as a Lodger, puny Jesuits. unless his Hoast examine his condition, his abode before, and whether he will go to Church; and Delegates in every Shire, to receive the Accounts accordingly.

The Spaniard having very lately erected a Seminary at Valledolid in Castile, Their Seminaries. purposely for English and Scotish Fugitives, to draw their obedience from hence, to him; and being finished, Pope Clement the Eighth must needs by his Bull confirm it, which is dated the first year of his Popeship, Confirmed by the Pope. Quoniam, &c. multi Anglicani exules adolescentes fuerunt experti, qui ex miserabili Angli [...] Regno in Hispaniam transfugerunt. And why? because, (quod alias tantoper [...] floriut, erga fidem Catholicam devotisimam fuit, nunc etiam Haereseos gravissimo infortunio affligitur atque opprimitur) in Hispaniam transfugerunt, &c. But, not all Exules adolescentes; No, I warrant you, Ii tantum (says one) qui ad finem illorum consequendum aptiores esse videntur: and then swear to take Orders, and return home to England, to adventure for a Halter, that is, To convert as many of my Countrey-men and Kinsfolk as I can, whensoever I shall be called thereto by my Superiors, whose command I will be ready to execute, as believing, that not He so much, as God himself doth put me on that Errand. And thus prepared they come in Disguises, with Equivocations, that by their bare habit none can understand them, counterfeiing all shapes and professions, and are justified (they say) by example of Eusebius, who in the time of Constantine the Arrian Emperour did so, under covert to visit the Assemblies of the Catholicks, and to instruct them. Rabadineira Append. Schismat▪ Angl. cap. 23.

But we must bethink what becomes of Bothwell, Bot [...]wels Treason to seize the King and Court. who being fled from his friends and almost forsaken, he was invited by some at Court, Instruments to serve the time, and Servants to the Duke of Lenox, men of mean fortunes, but fit enough to to add fuel to to any Enterprise, with their assistance; and therefore had trained into the Conspiracy, Colonel William Stewart, Neswich the Kings Surgeon, and Iames Douglas of Spot, who in truth came in by another occasion, thus; a few days before, George Home of Spot (his father in Law) was killed by some of the Sirname of Home and Craw; Sir George Home Nephew to Spot charged Iames Dowglas as Author and Accessary to the Murther; (this jealousie arising from some interest of an Estate in difference between them) upon this (but suspition) three of his men are imprisoned, and threatned with torture, to confess; the King (some say) had a strong conceit of their guilt, and commanded that [Page] course of Tryal; Spot laboring for their reprieve of this punishment, and not prevailing, he joined in the Treason, being told of it in the heat of revenge.

The manner of the Conspiracy was thus,The manner the [...]eof. Bothwell in disquise out of England, should lurk neer the Court, with his followers, dispersed, till the time should let them in by night through a back way, into the Palace, and surprize the King and Chancellour, and (with hope of Success) all the Court after. Each man had his quarter and particular charge, to take the sign given, and to fall on.

It took effect thus far, they were entered, and after mastered the Inner Court. Dowglas too forward for his [...]rvants imprisoned, and to free them for assistance, the number and noise breaking open the doors where the Prisoners were, startled the King at Supper, and hearing the cry Treason, Treason, gat up to the Tower for his better safety.

Bothwell earnest to order all, commands some to beset the Chancellors Lodgings,Fire the Q [...]. lodging [...] ▪ whilest himself hastens to the Queens quarter, which he finds baricado'd, and therefore endeavours to fire it. In which time Sir Iames Sandilands of his Majesties Bed-chamber, with some Forces of the Town Edenburgh, entring by the Church of Holy-rood-house, beat him and his company from the fire, and the alarm happily hastened, the Conspirators fled and escaped in the dark, by such several waies as brought them in. But Bothwell must have blood, and encountring by chance with Iohn Shaw, a Gentleman of note, who had the better at the Sword, till Bothwell snatcht a Pistol from his Page, and shot Shaw dead.

In the pursute nine of the Train were taken,and [...] and by Club-law were hastily hanged the next morning, before cold-blood could quiet the rage of the people.

Thus far this defeat had Success. But Bothwell got Northward, towards Earl Murray intending his Supply,Huntley and Murray fall into the mischief. which the King suspecting sends the Lord Uchiltry to decoy Murray into the South, as to work reconcilement with Huntley, but a false rumour being raised this while, that Murray was seen with Bothwell in the late Enterprize, Huntley hasty enough to malice and revenge, got Commission to bring him to a Tryal.

Murray not minding any mischief herein, was on his way at his Mothers House, the La Downes neer Forth, and being too secure from sudden attempt, Huntley gets aid of the County, and summons a surrender. Murray making much of a needy case, returns bad words and Bullets too boot, which shot the Sheriff to the heart,The Sheriff killed. and some others into a fear that altered; their fighting to firing the House, and forced them within, through smoke and flame, to come forth and yield.

[Page] The evening shadowed the enterprize from discovering their Prisoners for the present;Anno 1592. but whilest they peeped for Murray, he not yet come out; And being put to the plunge, broke through them all with wondrous courage; escaping their seisure, yet weary and tired shrunk down within the cleft of the Rocks, and by his Head-piece discovered to be him, he was, without mercy of a common man,Murray miserably slain. miserably slain. For Huntley (in this treacherous, if true) fearing he should be innocent of the Conspiracy, might in honour have afforded him quarter, which was desired, but to be sure of his death ran him often through, after he was a dead Corps, and having hastened the news to the King galloped away Nort [...]ard, leaving his cosen, Captain Gourdon, wounded, who was brought to Edenburgh, and publickly executed to pacifie the people.

I have seen what some have said,The cause of Murrays death put upon others. who should be guilty of this good mans blood, but I dare not suspect, where I am not sure of authority to bear out the blame; nor can I find any cause in the King, the jealousie is raised by the sudden News that posted to Court, as of good service; but that was Huntleys villany, by the speed to lodge it on any from suspition of his own private revenge. Yet it fell foul on the Chancellor, a fate or fashion of King and Favourite. Princes have Pupils to bear their stripes, the Dog beaten for the Lion, and sometime Soveraign suffers for them. when Revenge grows high, they meddle with the Magistrate, but being gotten into power no Majesty escapes.

Who ere were in fault,Murry lamented. Edenburgh was to hot, for the Court to hold out, Murray bemoaned of all, the King removes, or rather ran away with the Council to Glasgow; not [...]afe there neither, till Huntley was [...]ound out, to render his Person to Prison in Blackness, but was soon demitted upon caution to answer any summons.

His sudden discharge set mens tongues on work,Huntley is at Liberty. and incouraged their faction to unbury the dead (saies one) and raise the coffined corps of Murray and the Sheriff, against Lieth Church door, their friends refusing them other funeral, until revenge were taken of their slaughter; and who more earnest in this resentment than the Lord Uchiltry, Uchiltry abused. who, ignorant of any ill meaning, was put upon the errand to perswade Murray to come to reconcilement, which by this means was turned to murther, and in regret of his Dishonour, the rather sought out Bothwell, to bare stakes, at all hazards with him.

And in earnest they are. But the Church interrupt the story, who when the State was mostly in mischief,The Chu [...]ch interfeers the State Affairs. then were they busiest for themselves the Ministery. Intermixing pious Articles in their petition to the Parliament, but evermore interfeering with Soveraignty.

[Page] The first of their demands being willingly confirmed against Papists, Idolatry and crimes of blood, with which the Land indeed was then much poluted.

But for abrogating the former acts of Anno 1584. And Articles, against discipline of the Church, and their liberty, and in place thereof a Ratification now of the practice then.

The Kings wisdom foresaw the inconveniences which the Ministers assume from that term of liberty.

But Bothwells Business interrupting the Kings quiet (a time of advance to their demands) the Act was warily passed;agreed. and as for the Statute of Regal power, Supremacy in the King which they mostly aimed to abrogate. It was only declared,

It should be no waies derogatory to the spiritual Office-bearer in the Church, concerning heads of Religion, Heresie, Excommunication, Collation or deprivation of Ministers, or any such, having ground and warrant of Gods word.

The King removes to Faulkland, Bothwells other attempts at Faulkland, where Bothwell attempts a fresh Conspiracy, being assisted by the Earls of Angus and Arroll, the Master of Gray, Collonel Stuart, and the Lairds of Iohnston and Balmery, they had their several Postures; the latter met him with four hundred horse; Angus kept watch without, and Arrol was alwaies with the King; Stuart must be the Porter to let the others in▪ Somwhat they attempted, which gave suspition sufficient, so that Arrol was committed to Edenburgh Castle, and the Collonel to Blackness.

But why these at Court were so hasty, without the power of Bothwell, fell out upon a false Spie, that gave warning ere the Forces were nigh? For Bothwell, with no more than six score, (the Rascallity pickt up upon the Borders, English and Scotish) marching two daies and nights, with slender diet, and faint watchings arrived at Faulkland at midnight, where he found the Court at their Sentries, by which he feared the discovery. But the day soon opened (the midst of Iune) and he encamped on the Hill side. His Followers fall upon any booty, break open the Queens stables, and take out the Horses, and what other baggage came to hand, more regarding present plunder, than the hazard of their Chief;is defeated, who thus at loss, and the County coming in, He was forced to flie, but how or whether in martial Order he knew not, and therefore by the next Midnight he stole away.

The King with his company followed by the Ferry (mistaking the way) hastened his course by Sterlin-bridge,and flies to England. where Bothwells men in disorder separate to all parts, and were soon seized, some in the Moors of Calder and Carnwath; the Horses unman'd their Riders falling from their Saddles for want of sleep. Others taken napping, not able to stand, were committed to several [Page] Holds, and some knockt on the heads, by poor Plow-boys, and all of them so weak, that a few women mastered the most of them; and Bothwell got into England. And the King by experience, and his own clemency found it the best way to proclaim pardon to all that would forsake the grand Traytor and come in, knowing that some others might be interessed in that plot, and too many of note, for him to meddle with.

For whether in affection to Bothwell or malice to the Master of Glammis (the Treasurer) his Enemy.Lindsey Lord Spinie is susspected, Alexander Lindsey Lord of Spinie in great favour; works secret attempts to reconcile him to the King, Collonel Stuart still Prisoner in Blackness in hope of nope of liberty discovers it to the King at Dunfres by Sir Iames Sandilands the keeper of that house, who justified before the Council, That Spinie had harboured Bothwel at Aberdowre. The other denies all and claims the combate, which Sandilands not making good.and becomes a companion of Bothwells. Spinie recovers into favour, and yet infected with treasonable intents, the next year he openly takes part with Both well, and is denounced Rebel.

Others also,A love trick of a Woman. Weymis of Logie, of the Kings Bed-chamber, was more than suspected, and committed to Guard, until his Mistress (the Queens Dutch Maid) in the Kings name, after bed time, brought the Prisoner to be questioned by the King himself, the Keepers waiting without, he was let in to the Chamber, and out at a Window by a Rope, and this being a Lovetrick for her to hazard the halter, the Ladies liking the conceipt, and upon mariage with her Paramour, procured the Queens favour, and pardon for them both. And with these aforesaid, and divers others, the faction of Bothwel increased with men of all rancks; Barons and Burgesses, intertaining him openly in several parts of the Country, and in Tweedale, the most part of those people; whether the King was fain to take journey as far as Iedbury to pacifie them and settle their fidelity.

No sooner returned but new factions at home against the Chancellor, Faction against the Chancellour. and by the greatest, Lenox, Arguile, Morton, Glammis, and Lord Hume, with whom Angus, Arrol, (and but lately released prison) adjoin; occasioned by the Chancellours refusing the Queens claim, to some Lands of his which set the wheel in going; and which forced him in wisdome, to withdraw from Court, into the Country for this year.

In the North also, the Clanhattons, Clanhattons against Huntly. conducted by Angus Williamson, in pretence of revenge of Earl Murrays death, make havock of all that belongs to Huntley; with fire and Sword, and fell foul upon an aged Man, Gordon of Barckley, for no crime, but his honesty and kindred to Huntley, who in revenge commits cruelties upon his Enemies, encountring a great party sixty of them were slain, and some of his own side. And not satisfied [Page] with this he summons all the High-landers and with their help, devastates all that Country, and kills many, until a Commission to Angus Lord Lieutenant, with power of the Counties, forced a cessation on both sides, and returning in Triumph, was seized as a Traytor, and committed to the Castle of Edenburgh, upon some Letters intercepted and signed by him,Angus committed. Huntley, Arrol, and others, to the King of Spain, and sent by George Ker, whose confession was,

That upon the receipt of Letters from Creighton, Ker his Com [...]mission to Spain. the Iesuit in Spain, unto Gordon and Abercrombie, for alteration of Religion; those return answer of the Scots concurrence; and for more secrecy, these three Earls undertake for all, and blanks signed by them to be filled in Spain, and intrusted to the Bearers, in October last.

And he avowed also, That Angus and Arroll assured him, that the King of Spain would send thirty thousand men into Scotland; part of this Army to force Toleration of their Romistry here, and the other part to be convayed by them into England, for the same design, and this Army to land in Kirkud-bright in Galloway or in the mouth of Cluydo River.

These manifest plots of Papists,Plots of Papists. drew the consideration necessary for the whole Nation; and meetings of the Ministery, and all men, to propose their advice and aid, to pursue the Rebells already risen, and to raise a Guard of three hundred Horse, constant with the King, and the Conspirators to be called to Justice, and the first example fell upon Graham of Fintre, and executed in February. And in this hurry Angus escapes out of Prison, and flies to the North, unto Huntley and Arroll. But the King in great perplexity of Murthers, rapine and slaughters, publick and private, upon their submission are received to mercy, favour and preferment; all means used to bring peace to these miserable people.

The French King in great distress,The French King relieved by Q. Eliz. and overwhelmed in his affairs, craves more aid out of England, and is assisted again with four thousand men more, and ordinance, But not to make peace with the Leaguers until the Spanish forces were driven out of France. So necessary it was for England by these means to stop their career, and to keep off revenge, from home. These Forces intrusted with General Norris, land in Bretaign, but find no French; and so being hurried up and down Normandy, Lamain and elsewhere, the Spaniard increase number in Bretaign; Norris returns home, and the French King in distress, upon some fear of his fewds,Turns Papist. and hopes of advantage, turns Papist.

Whilest the Duke of Parma also, prepared fresh forces to [Page] assault Picardy, but being in readiness, he fights a private combate with Death, and is overcome, after fourteen years Government in Flanders; a man of excellent honour and virtue, as Queen Elizabeth always acknowledged;Duke of Parma dies. who to amaze and busie the Spaniard, and to divert him from hence, sends several Expeditions by Sea into his Territories of America with singular succession.

And to prevent his practices in Scotland of as great concernments to both Nations, she keeps watchfull correspondence with King Iames, who indeed wary of the Papists encroachments at home, began to exercise his Regal power over his Nobility and other seditious Subjects, having scattered the last Rebells into their Holds, and Bothwel into England.

These Insurrections thus far happily suppressed,The Queens message by L. Burroughs. contrary to the imagination of the English policies; Queen Elizabeth to colour suspition, sends the Lord Burrough to congratulate the discoveries and the succe [...]s, offering her aid, to bring the Malignants to Trial; and wished him, if he could not apprehend their persons, to confiscate their Estates; and seeing his case concerned all Princes of the Religion, she desired his resolution therein, for her to satisfie all others her Confederates against Spain.

The King gives her thanks,The Kings Answer. and that he was assured, Bowes her Ambassadour had certified her of all proceedings in particular, (as aforesaid) wherein he had begun, and was fully resolved to prosecute the guilty; but advised with her, how dangerous it might be for him, to have such potent Rebells, without her help, to hunt such fugitives; their Design being more dangerous to assist the Spaniards attempts upon England, than either upon France or Holland, to whom she had liberally already afforded supply, with men and moneys; and therefore, what he desired on his particular his own Ambassadour should declare.

The next Audience furnished the Ambassadour with Arguments from his Mistris, the Ambassadours reply. to advise the King to wise and well-affected Counsellours, help to disarm and suppress such Rebells, and withall, intimating the Queens punishment upon those that harboured Bothwel in England; and so by circumstances to draw out of the King what resolution he intended towards him, in so troublesom time, and if it were for his Majesties quiet to receive him upon submission.

The King seeming not to countenance Bothwel, nor believing the Queens resentment of his Receivers, said, That if his Mistris meant honourably to her self or him, she would rather deliver him to justice, according to their League, than to support him in her Dominion, whose Crimes were unpardonable; and her further favours to him would induce a necessity for the King to joyn [Page] with her Enemies, Anno 1593. for his own safety. And so Burroughs returned, and Bowes remained.

In an Assembly of the Church in April, the King resolving to give them Items, Church Assembly. sends them Articles.

That h [...] would not suffer diminution of the Privileges of his Crown, nor Assemblies without his order.

That an Act pass to inhidit Ministers to declame in the Pulpit against the King and his Council.

That some of every Presbytery should inform his Majesty of the Papists practices and Bothwels receivers.

That some of theirs should cause the Magistrates of Burghs, at Sea-ports, to examine Passengers and Plotters against the Re [...]ligion.

To the first, they would follow former Acts.

The scond, they prohibit without just and necessary causes, which the King esteeming no restraint, was as causless to answer theirs against Papists, his necessities enforcing civilities to the Papists, to ballance with the rigid Reformers.

But the Mundays Market stuck in their stomacks,Munday Market to be altered. against which their Act passed to alter for Tuesday, their Reason was religious, to prevent the Trades-men violating the Sabbaths Evening with too much care and travail, against the next Morning.

The Shoomakers whom it most concern'd, gathering tumult, menaced the Ministers, if they urged their consents, to drive them out of Edenburgh, which begat that saying, Rascals and Sowters obtain from the Ministers, what the King could not do in matters more reasonable.

The King sends Melvil to satisfie Queen Elizabeth of the affairs of Scotland, and to desire aid of money, for levying six hundred Souldiers for some Moneths, and to renew the former complaint against Bothwels entertainment in England, whilest he steals into Scotland and surprizes the King. Bothwel seises the King at Holy rood-house.

The Chancellour, as you have heard (retired from Court, upon displeasure of Queen Ann) requests the King by Letter, that seeing his service was useless, and his solitary life irksom, he craves leave to depart out of the Kingdom, untill his Majesties pleasure command his return.

The King being earnest with the Queen upon his resign of Muskleburgh, which she clamed, and his coming to Court resolved; Lenox, Athol and Ochiltry, plot to prevent him, and bring in Bothwel under disguise of attending the the Lady Athol, by the Postern-gate, with another, his Companion, armed into the very Bed-chamber.

[Page] The King at [...]ight of them cried out, Treason, Treason, Strike Traitor, strike, (said he) make an end of thy Villany, I desire to die.

He answered with Oaths, that he came for mercy.

And the King replied, that Mercy extorted was Insolency, and not the form of Suppliants: and suddenly rushed in the Earl Mar with numbers of that Faction, having possession of the Court, and outward Gates, enforced the King to shew himself to the People (who were come to his rescue) as in freedom, and to command them to depart.And enforces Articles. And Bothwel thus emboldened, got Bowes the Ambassadour to side with them, and to urge these Articles from the King, Pardon of all former Attempts and Treason, by him or his Associates, with restoration of all, which they heretofore possessed, and to abandon the Chancellour, the Lord Hume, the Master of Glammis, and others.

To all the King signed with witnesses of all manner of men, Lords and Ministers thereunto.

The next Day August 20. The King complains of Bothwels insolencies. the King removes to Falkland, Lenox, Ochiltry and Crichton of Clany, waited on him with directions from Bothwel, to see that the King kept to his late Articles; in which time Bothwel attained an Assise to purge him of his practicing with Witches, the original of his mischief: but the King in disdain to be thus misused, goes to Sterling, and under colour of con [...]orming the Highlanders, pro [...]ures a Convention of other Lords, necessarily frequent and effectual, Hamilton, Mar, Morton, Glencarn, Montross, Lindsey, and Levingston, two Bishops and two Priors, and some Burgesses. The King enters them with some business of the Borders; but in earnest relates to them the Indignities he had endured by Bothwel, which they knew, and puts it upon their Honours, whether he were bound to the late Conditions so extorted from him in terrour and fear of his life; lets them see their own insecurity, when himself is over-powred and forced by Villanies as a captive King to submit unto Subjects unjust demands, in destruction of his loyal Councellours and eminent Officers.

They concluded Bothwels Fact treasonable, The Lords r [...] sent it, and send to him. and those Articles void, freedom in the King to call his Servants and Councellours about him; and resolved to publish by Act his Majesties power, as a free Prince, to chuse his Councellours and Servants about his Person, and that the Conditions signed to Bothwel in August last, to be null.

And being now set upon it, two Commissions were sent to him, to signifie thus much, and of the Kings favour for him to supplicate for pardon, before November next, and then to depart the Realm, till the Kings pleasure.

Bothwel seemed humble, but meets with Athol, Montross, and a number of men, at Sterling, to whom the King sends to dissolve [Page] his Train and retire home, for the King was coming thither, with the Lord Home, and some Forces were sent before, to scoure the way, who encountring Montross, takes him Prisoner; and the Court coming to Edenburgh, Denounced Rebell. Bothwel is cited and denounced Rebell again.

These Troubles were raised by the Lords of Religion, but see what the Papists do.

The Catholick Lords had been cited to the last Parliament in Iuly, Proceedings against Popish Lords. but failed by some defect in the Libell, and so were remitted to the King and Councel, which was suspected in favour; the Synode of Fife therefore excommunicate Angus, Huntley, Arrol, Home and Chisholm, and writ to Edenburgh for them to do so there.

The King displeased with such Proceedings, requires M. Bruce there great Pastor, to stay Sentence, the Persons neither cited nor subject to Fife Synode, and if this be your Order (says he) for one to excommunicate, with their direction for others to do so too, who can be sure to eschew trouble?

But Bruce boldly told the King, that the Ministers had their own Reasons, and were answerable onely to the General Assembly.

Well, (says the King) your Discipline hath distasted all men, and seeing your practices are without good President, I will bethink me of some Remedy.

The Popish Lords complain to the King at Falaw, and humbly crave a legal Trial, but were commanded to enter their persons at Perth, and abide there till the Trial; and lest any jealousie should censure the King, as conniving, the Abbot of Lunders was sent to the English Ambassadour, and to Edenburgh Ministery, to tell them the truth; and it was time so to do.

For now such News got wings,by the Ministers. and Commissioners of all the several Churches from all parts convene, and finding the Church of God, King and Kingdom in eminent peril, they prepare Articles of advice.

That the Trial of the excommunicate Lords be not prevented, but their Day prorogued onely for the conveniency of the Professors of the Religion to be their Accusers, for their Treasons committed; in the mean time to stand committed; their Iury to be nominated by their Accusers, the whole Professors of the Gospel; that they being excommunicate and so cut off from the Body of the Church of God, have no benefit of the Law, till they be reconciled to the Church: and that such onely as profess the Religion may be a Guard to the King, against the Enemies of God, the Countrey not brooking them and us together.

The King startled at their Inscription, The King displeased with the Assembly. not owning (he said) such Convention, nor them Commissioners assembling without his consent; [Page] [...]ut vouchsafed to receive them as humble Subjects, but not otherwise commissioned. And of his own gracious intention told them, That the said Lords met him at Falaw, and humbly craved a legal Trial, to which the Ministers had often solicited, and which in honor and justice he with his Councel had granted, and considering the time and place, Perth not so proper, he had resolved it at Linlithgow, at the meeting of the Estates, and with their advice; and that neither Iudges nor Iuries should be other than men indifferent; and for his own Guard, those whom he called thither should be welcom, others should not be so.

They accused the Lord Home of residing at Court.

The King told them, His Day assigned to satisfie the Ministers was not as yet; and if you can accuse him in particular for the present, let him answer for himself. And so sent them away.

The Assembly unsatisfied,Their farther proceedings in Tumult. advertise all parts to be in Arms at the Day of Trial (which the King timely prohibits) without his Warrant.

They answer, that in the cause of God, their Defence must not be deficient.

Which the King inhibits by Proclamation, Declaring his course taken for their Trial in July last, but hindred by Bothwels Rebellions, he now convenes the Estates at Linlithgow, for that and other necessities of the Kingdom; the Lords themselves earnest Suitors to abide the Law, and satisfie the Church; and therefore commands the Subjects not to make Convocations; but if any meeting were already of that nature, then to dissolve and return home, under pain of punishment.

But meet they would,Commissioners to try the Popish Lords, with such numbers as shortened the Proceedings; and in summe, Commissioners were chosen by the Estates to consider of the Popish Lords their Offers and Petitions, to try their Accusations and Purgations; and what they determine should be valid and effectual, as in Parliament or Convention. The Commissioners were, the Chancellour, Mar, Montross and Rothes, sundry Lords and Lairds, and divers of the Ministery named to be admitted to the Conference.

The 12th of November they meet and conclude, and conclude these Articles. That the true Religion established the first of his Majesties Reign should be onely professed in all time to come, within the Realm; and that none should abet, or receive Jesuits, Priests, or other Adversaries of Religion, upon the pain in former Acts of Parliament.

That all should conform hereto before February next, or depart the Realm, whither his Majesty shall appoint, and not return, till they turn Professors; they and their Heirs, always enjoying their Lands and Estates, by Procurators in their behalfs.

The Earls of Angus, Huntley, and Arrol, and the Lairds Achindown [Page] and Chisholm, to be unaccusable of the Crimes contained in the Summons, occasioned by their Letters and Blanks intercepted, (as before remembred) concerning their trafficking with forein Princes against Religion, &c. discharging all Proceedings against them: Provided, if they offend hereafter, the former Crimes to be added to their Charge.

That such of them as shall profess Religion are to be assigned their places of abode: not to dispute publick or private in favour of Popery. Huntly and Arrol to remove out of their company James Gordon and Oglevy Iesuits, to finde Sureties in fourty thousand pounds to abide Subscriptions; and Achindown and Chisholm in ten thousand pounds.

Such as leave the Realm, to give caution not to practice with Jesuits abroad, against this State; and to declare their submission to their choice of conditions before January next, or be liable to Trial by Law.

These were in effect concluded and signed unto by them; which the King and Council confirmed, and the three Earls subscribed, but to small effect.

For the end of this Year, begins fresh feuds, the Iohnstons in the West-Marches made Incursions upon the Sanhares, and killed eighteen persons; and though great friendships had been contracted with Maxwel, yet having in Commission as Warden to pursue the Offenders, the Sanhares offered their assistance therein, to bring all Niddesdale to depend upon him, and Bonds signed unto for performance: a Servant of Maxwels betrays this Bond into the hands of Iohnston, who sends a Gentleman to discourse the truth out of Maxwel, who first denied it, but afterward said, He must obey the Kings directions.

Iohnston to cope with such Combination, Maxwells and Johnstons fewds. associates with those of Tevedale, the Eliots and Grahams; and so meeting Maxwels Forces with the Commander Olephant, kil'd him & divers others.

Maxwel to repair his dishonour, levies one thousand men, and like a Kings Lieutenant, with displayed Banner, enters Annandale. Iohnston not so many, deals by policy, sends out his Prikers, (the Boders cunning) to provoke; whom Maxwel encounters, but by Ambuscade, Iohnston comes in with power, and puts them all to flight.

Maxwel was taken, desiring Quarter, (as he had often given Iohnstons father) and reaching out his hand for to confirm it, had it basely cut off, and afterwards butched to death; he was a man much lamented, of great spirit, humane, and more learned than Lords are, yet like most of them, ambitious.

And this to be done to the Kings Lieutenant, The Kinds sad condition. might amaze some men, to consider the Distempers of the Nation, and the wisdom of a young Sovereign, how to ballance these frequent [Page] Feuds, and to bandy against Bothwels Treasons, Papists conspiracies, tumults, and insurrections, the Gangrene Evil of insolent Assemblies, evermore eating into the Bowels of Government, to devour and devastate all; for this present he assigns the Lord Herris, Drumlanrig, Lagg, and other Barons, to abide at Dunfres, to quiet and repress Disorders.

The time limited to the Popish Lords,Popish Lords come not in. Ianuary 18. is past, and they omiting the benefit of Abolition, are charged to enter their persons into Ward, Angus into Blackness, Huntley in Dunbritton, and Arrol to Edenburgh Castle, and Achindon in Tantallon; but neither of them obeyed.

The King removes to Sterling, where Queen Ann was delivered of her first-born the 19th of February, 1593.Pr. Henry born in Feb. To which place arrives the Lord Zouch from Queen Elizabeth, to congratulate her Delivery, and to complain to the King, his remisness against the Popish Lords,Lord Zowch Ambassadour from England for she was informed of the Articles of November; and being told besides, by some busie Presbyters at home, the Kings favour to his Popish Lords, (her age made her often apt to entertain such Tales, and her Jealousie summ'd up Reasons to her self, soon to believe them.) But, her Ambassadour taking time, to understand what had passed, could not be at leasure to suspend his judgment or confidence in the Kings prosecution to effectual punishment.

And therefore to hasten homewards, he tampers for Bothwel, (the immediate end of his Errand) deals with the Ministers, and Ministers assist Bothwels attempt. the most especial amongst them, to countenance his fresh Insurrection with numbers of loose persons; and (which troubled the King, they commend Andrew Hunter, one of their own, to be Bothwels Chaplain in Ordinary. And being thus emboldened, they go on to raise Moneys themselves, levy Souldiers, to assist his Treasons; Nay more, (see their piety to Rebellion, their sacrilegious assistance) even with those very Moneys, benevolent Contributions collected by their Pulpit Oratory, out of the poor peoples purses for supply of Geneva Brethren then in much misery; and in a mad fury distributed unto Robert Melvil and George Strang, two Rebell Captains, for the well-affected Cause of the Traitor Bothwell. His Design taking up a new motive and pretext, Justice against the Popish Lords; but in truth his Malice and Revenge, pretended also, for the slaughter of Murray. And with him joyned Argile and Arrol, and so do Arguile and Arrol. to meet at Lieth; not without hourly intelligence with the English Ambassadour Zouch, who fearing that the Kings foresight had espied his juggling, stole away home, without biding Bothwel Farewell.

Whose Cause was cried up, advancing from the Borders with four hundred Horse coming to Lieth, very early the first of April, and this he durst do, the King being so near at Edenburgh, but [Page] meanly guarded,Anno 1594. and put to it to speak for himself after [...] Sermon, for the Pulpit would not.

He passionately tels the People all the stories of Bothwels A [...] tempts, The King pleads to the people after Sermon for assistance. and his Treason now, reasoning with the Multitude, some suspition of his siding with Papists [...] of the Lords; [...] them in [...]inde (almost forgotten) that he was their [...] King and Soveraign, and brought it home to their self-conside [...] tion, if Bothwel should prevail against him, what they must expect of the Borderers upon them.

Much [...]do they are moved to arm, and to accompany the [...]r Commander the Lord H [...]me, who lead the Horse, and the bold trained Bands march after the Cannon, taken out of the Castle, to besiege Lieth.

But Bothwel was removed tow [...]rds Dalkieth, dividing into three Troops, Humes Horse followed to obse [...]e what course he held, whilest the King made a Hal [...] [...]t [...]orrow [...]mo [...]r.

Bothwels Scouts finding them [...], encourage him to turn upon Hume, which he did with some advantage, being above the others number, gave him [...]ace, in [...] retire, which moved some to advise the King to secure himself in the Town Resta [...]g No, says the King, [...] never quit the Field to a Traitor. And though in eminent danger, stood it still, whil [...]st Bothwels eager pursuit, stumbled his Horse, and in the fall, bruises him into some per [...], that he took the readiest way to Dalkieth for that night,Bothwel dissipated. and the next morrow dissolves his Troop [...]. Arrol has tidings, and does so too; the Captains at [...]ife take ship and fa [...]l away.

And this gave end to his three [...]quadrons, and leasure to the King by his Ambassadour Lord Colvil to complain to Queen Elizabeth of her Ambassadour Zouch, Colvil Ambassadour to England complains of Zowch. and her harbouring of Bothwel.

He writes plainly, Though she had recommended his Person, wise, religious and honest, yet his [...]arriage was more like an Herauld, than to be a Messenger in Commission of Pea [...]e, between two neighbour Princes, and therefore meeting with his pride and wilfulness, he chose his own Emissary to carry this Errand, whom he prays the Queen to credit. He marvelled the more, having received her many Princely promises and Letters not to countenance Bothwel, nor his Receivers, whilest some of her own Palaces had given him harbour, being assisted with English Moneys to levy Scots and English in this his another very late treacherous Attempt. To challenge her Princely Honour, he did not, nor could be confident of her privi [...]y therein, yet considering her prudence and policies, he was troubled to finde the insolency of her Subjects, to hazard a breach with her nearest Kinsman; and therefore leaving it to her self to resolve those doubts, he put her in mind of his delivery of Orork the Irish Rebell to her, and prays her not to [Page] put him in ballance with such a trayterous counterpoise, least he be constrained to speak like the Poet, Flectere si nequeo superos, &c.

Thus much the letter said, the Ambassadour in private assured her Majesty the particular prosecution against the Popish Lords, to proscribe their persons and confiscate their Lands. And to go through with the work against them, and other Romists, he craved a supply of monies.

The Queen had no excuse but to ballance her favour to Bothwell, by the slow pursuit the King made against those Papists.The Queens [...]nswer. Henceforth she would cease, and for effecting his purpose against them. He should not want what was in her power to afford.

The first she really per [...]rmed and speedily proclamed against Bothwell, and no assistance to him through her Borders, which the King hartily resented.

And by his Ambassadors invites the Queen to the Baptism of the Prince his Son, and others were sent of the same errand, To the King of Denmark, the Dukes of Brunswick and Megleburgh, and to the general Estates. (Men enough to one Woman.

The King so far affected with the Queens Publication against Bothwell, Papists banished. that the next Parliament the Scotish Papists are banished by plurality of voices, Clergy and Commons (whom the Nobles would have spared) And Arguile is sent with forces against such as would not submit.

The Assembly of the Church co [...]nvene at Edenburgh, and direct Commissioners of their own to represent to his Majesty at Sterlin, the dangers of the State, and to propound the remedies in eleven Articles.

They lay the ground from the late design of the Spaniard in eighty eight against the whole Island,Remonstrance of the Assembly against Papists. and his correspondence since with the Popish Lords, argues his intention, the same still, and their continuance in Treasonable attempts ever since, doth evidence their obstinacy to prosecute the Conspiracy.

Then the Church layes open, how their counsel from time to time was neglected, and the enemy incouraged, and none greater favourites in Court than Papists; naming principal families infected therewith.

And recko [...]s up the Popish Lords neglect, and scorn of the Act of Oblivion, their disobedience, not entring their persons to Ward. The arriving of the late Spanish Bark at Montross, shews that their Practises continue, and their open Conventions assure themselves safety; besides their preparations of Arms in the North parts. And conclude, that the cause not being removed, the dangerous effects are like to follow.

The Remedies they propound in eight conclusions.

[Page] That the Popish Lords be forfeited the next Sessions of Parliament.

And no Papists elected shall sit.

That they shall be pursued,And the Remedies. their rents and lands annexed to the Crown without favour.

That seizure be made of several notorious persons named.

That none shall relieve them with any Supply or Intelligence.

That the people should put themselves into arms, as a posture of Defence.

Somwhat was said against the Lord Hume, but he appearing, was absolved.

These remedies were well accepted of the King, only misliking Subjects to arm without his Warrant. And well he might reminding the last years insurrections at the peoples pleasure.

The King granting theirs, offers some conditions for himself, hy his Messinger Melvil.

That the Assembly should inhibit their Ministers irreverent speeches in Pulpit, against his Majesty and Council under pain of deprivation.

And to censure Iohn Ross for his insolency therein.

The like against Hunter another of theirs [...] for his open consortship with the late Traytors, he being a Minister of Religion, against his King of the same faith, to the great scandal of the Church.

The third was to admon [...]sh their Congregations against Bothwell, his treasonable attempts, or any other such insurrections against his Majesties person.

This last was enacted, but Ross was only admonished to do so no more; and Hunter was pretended to be deposed from his function but they juggled him in again.

The Parliament adjudged the three Earls and Achindown guilty of the Crimes of Treason, their estates forfeited, their Escocheons torn by the Herauld (as their manner of degrading) and excellent Statutes passed for the good of Country and Commons.

And now begins the Solemnity of Baptism for the Prince in August, The Solemnities of the Princes Baptism named Henry Fred [...]rick. from England the Earl of Sussex, the King of Denmark, and Duke of Brunswick and Megleburgh, with the free Estates of the Provinces, had their Ambassadours there present, from the French King came none. The manner of Ceremony was thus, handsom. The Infant was brought into the Queens chamber of Presence, laid in a Bed of State. The Ambassadours came in, and were presented with the Prince; first from the Arms of the Countess of Mar, to the Duke of Lennox, who delivered him to the Earl of Sussex; having the principal place of Dignity, who bore him to the Chappel, being followed with [Page] a Noble Train of Lords and Ladies. Before them all, the Lord Hume carried the Ducall Coronet, the Lord Levingston bore the Towell; the Lord Seaton the Fontall Bason, and the Lord Simple the Laver. Over the English Ambassadour [...] Rich Majesterial Canopie, supported by four Lairds. The Childs Train bore up by the Lords Sinclare and Urquart, and a Gu [...]rd or Lane on each side of the young Noblemen and Gentry of the Nation.

Being entred the Chappel;At the Chaple, the King already set, and ari [...]ing from his Throne, receives and salutes the Ambassadours; and then the Infant was delivered again to Lenox, who reached him to the Nurse, and the Estates take their Seats. Upon the Kings Right hand a Chair was placed for the French Ambassadour who was not come. The next to him the Ambassador of Denmark▪ on the left Hand the English Extraordinary and Lieger sat together; and then the Ambassadours of Brunswick, Megleburgh, and the States, before each Seat, a small T [...]ble covered with Velvet, and officers only about the English to wait his pleasure.

The Service ending Sussex presented the Prince to David Cunningham Bishop of Aberaeen, the action of Baptism administred by David Lindsey Minister of Lieth, and in French, because of Strangers, and naming him Henry Frederick. And so returning in former Order. And the Prince being laid upon a Bed of Honour, Lion Herauld proclaims his Titles, Henry Frederick Knight, and Baron of Kenfrew, Lord of the Isles, Earl of Karrick, Duke of Rothsay, Prince and Stewa [...]d of Scotland. Meddals of Gold and Silver cast to the people▪ sundry Knights made, with feastings and comedies, for a whole moneth.

The King amidst these Ceremonies of joy,The King sends to England for money. minds his serious affairs.

For the Popish Lords in Rebellion, an Ambassadour is sent to Queen Elizabeth to remember her promise, to support his levies; after many shifts and delayes some small sums were advanced as a loan, (which in truth were due otherwise upon account) and that very unwillingly too. for one Lock was now resident at Court, the only agent for Bothwells business, and Mr. Calvil the Minister, his Copes-mate, there also.

And again Bothwell is got up,Bothwel and the Popish Lords join in Rebellion. and keeping intelligence with the Popish Lords in the North, against whom the King intends an Expedition, resolves so to incumber his affairs in the South, as to prevent his journey, and having received some Gold from his Foreign friends, corrupts the Keeper of the Castle Blackness, to seize the King into hold, till the Conspirators should come and force conditions. To this they all are obliged by bond, assigned by Huntley, Arroll, Angus, Bothwell, and Achindown, and in custody of Sir Iames Scot. By which and others papers, discovered from Allan Orm, Bothwells Man, the whole plot came [Page] to light, and was published to undeceive the Comm [...]nalty, upon what score of Religion Bothwells Treasons were confirmed. And the Jayler and Orm, were both executed, to assure the visible truth to the people.

And without more circumstance Commission was given to Arguile, Arguile and Athol, Ath [...]l and others, who besiege the Castle of Ruthen; but was beaten back and meets with a Supply of more strength nowadvanced to a thousand horse and foot, Huntley hastens to fight ere Arguile get more men. And being less in number, but made desperate by necessity, Arroll leads the Van, with three hundred, a [...]d Huntley hath the Battel.

No sooner in sight,against Huntley and Arrol. but Arguile (in some misdoubt) yet commands Ma [...]k [...]an, who led his Van, to advance. Himself lodges in the fast grounds full of Moss and boggs, with the main of his men. Huntley had some Field pieces which plaid upon Macklans Highlanders; and they, as their manner was then (though since they have appeared stout fellowes and to stand to it) fell down on their bellies not willing to look up so long as the Guns did thunder, which incouraged Arroll to give the charge, but being forced to wheel aside, the Fellowes got up on their feet, and by that time they incounter, showring such a storm of arrows upon Arroll, that the first flight (a quarter of an hower) darkned the day into night, and at the fall of their Arrows, came in with their darts, that killed Achindown, and dangerously wounded Arroll, Arguile discomfited. many hurt, and the most fled.

Huntley sees this, and hastily spurs his Horse into the succour, and now encountring for the day, continued a cruel fight for two hours, which routed Arg [...]ile, not able to rally them again; yet Macklan stood it out, with courage and skil, till he retired in order and honour, with loss of many men of note, be [...]ides seven hundred Soldiers, and but a dozen on Huntleys part, though divers desperately wounded. And its called the Battell of Clenlivat a mile off. And so the Lords for the Kings side separate, and go home.

But ere the Conquerors,The K. comes to the Good-speed, & they are banished. could relish their wellfare, the King was got into the North, and demolishes Strathbolgy, Slains and Newton, principal holds of Huntleys, and though themselves withdrew to his Aunt the Countess of Sutherland, they were so beset by the Duke of Lenox, Lieutenant of the North, that they capitulate with Sureties to depart the Realm, without prejudice abroad, to the State at Home, nor to return [...]ill the Kings pleasure. Huntley into France, and the rest into several So [...]ls.

This condiscention to such notorious Rebells, lodged sometime upon the Kings account; as in favour to the Romists; but if we examine the charge of the War, uncertainty of his Nobles, [Page] faction of other fewds; and a ticklish jealousie in the Ministery, not to suffer Bothwell to sinck, whose pretences till now, they alwaies incouraged, these exigents may excuse the King.

Indeed in this publick Rebellion, with Papists, Colwell his Chaplain, refused his devotion, forsook his company, and came home again; yet to make himself welcome, betrayed Bothwells Brother, Hercules Stewart, to publick execution at Edenburgh.

This frighted the grand Traytor into fears;Bothwel flies into France, and forsaken or all but his guilty self, flies into France, and lands at New-haven, where in disquise he lodges; but tidings of him came to the King, who sends a Gentleman to France, to demand so reprobate a Rebell. The French King professed not to afford him countenance, but being come for refuge, he could not, in honour, debar him the free air of France.

And so wearied with the insupportable weigh of his sinful soul, and quarrelling with any man to kill him, against the Edict of France. He was thereupon banished from thence, wanders into Spain, and dies at Naples some years after. and so to Naples in Italy, where he lived, and died woundrous poor, and unpittied of all men, about the year 1624.

And thus the Hydra's Heads of this Conspiracy removed out of the way, the Members came in, discovering one another to procure pardon, and the very Bond was brought in, which did assotiate these Confederates, by which the Ministers eyes were opened, and by this new light they could see Bothwells guilt, which heretofore they could hardly believe. And so ended this Rebellion with the last of the year.

The next Assembly of the Church occasioneth the King then at Montross, Assemblie of the Church in Scotland. to send Commissioners to them to urge these Articles.

That any subj [...]t found guilty of Treason, should also be excommunicate; that so the Swords of Iustice, Spiritual and Temporal, should make inseparable Union one with another.

That no Excommunication should be valid by private men, without major votes in publick Assemblyes of the Members of other Churches.

That no Excommunication should fall upon any, for slight causes, and suspected crimes in Civil cases, lest the censure should come into contem [...], like the Popes Cursings, and when they do, to give lawful citation.

A man would judge of these Articles without difficult Answer.Answer the K. Articles.

Yet they shake their heads at all.

At the f [...]rst with this clause, Legitima cognitione Ecclesiastica preaeunte.

[Page] To the third and fourth they demur.Anno 1595.

And discharging any summary Excomm [...]nication. with this Exception, Nisi salus Ecclesiae periclitetur.

Thus evermore they bare a starting hole, which the K. might easily see, would serve turn for their turbulent intention to colour their proceedings hereafter.

What the conceipt should be,Q. Anns Design to seize the Prince. that possessed Queen Ann she had an earnest design (envy to the Earl of Mar, his Guardian, her only Warrant) to get the Prince out of his care, into her custody, and delt so with some Counsellors in the Kings absence, that had not the King timely prevented, and suddenly surprized the Queen, by posting to her from Faulkland to Edenburgh) it had been too late to recall the danger, and carries her in his company away to Sterlin, leaving her alone to ponder out the plot; such a design, as for her honorable memory I dare not mention, having no ground, but a Jesuits conceipt, but boldly put in print; an authority enough, for impudence only.

The King pondering with her the wily design, writes in secret to the Earl.

My Lord of Mar,

Because in the security of my Son,The Kings letter to Mar. mine is conserved, and my concredit of his charge to you, upon trust of your honour and honesty. This I command (as singly and solely of my self, being in company with those I like not) that upon any charge or necessity that possibly can come from me, you shall not deliver him; And in case that God call me at any time; see you that neither for the Queen, nor for the Estates pleasure. you deliver him out of your hands, fill he be eighteen years of age, and that then he command you himself.

Sterlin Iuly 24. 1595.

Iames Rex.

In this case that the King was cooped, appears his great trust to the fidelity of this Lord.

Some fire carries smoak,The Chancelor sick, and why. which even choaked the good old Chancellour, whether regret of the wrong, jealousie of the King, or guilt of the Counselour? he contracts the melancholy into a sickness? and being withdrawn to his Country-house Lawder, sends his Cosin the Secretary to the King then at Hamilton.

Excuses any evil design in him by his former continual fidelity to the Kings affairs. Commends his wife and children, and some friends to the Kings favour. Takes leave, like a man, not long of this Life.

[Page] The King ever compassionate, took it for no time, to dispute with discontent.

It was enough, his good services had been eminent and frequent; this last accompt he commits to God, and like a Prince, wi [...]e and charitable, instead of correction, sends him comfort, under his own hand and Seal.

Chancellour,

The Kings letter to him, full of grace.

How sorry I am (saies he) for this ill News, be your self my judge, I could never dissemble my affection. God may spare you, for my sake, if you love me so well, as to resist the assaults of your sickness, that his goodness may reserve you (yet a little) to me, as Hezekiah was to his people (for the necessity between Prince and people, is reciproque) Nor can any sickness (of it self) seize the vital, if God cut not the thread of life. As to your suits; when God calls you, I shall need no Remembrancer, for since I made you a mark of my constant favour (as your self hath oft times said▪) I am much more bou [...]d in Princely care to conserve it to your Wife and children, that bear your Image, a lively representation for me of my thankful memory of you, examples are begun in others, what have I not done for the Duke of Lenox, and Lady Huntley, for their Fathers sake? Suffer your thoughts in this assurance of the like to yours; The Secretary is mine already. And if the distance of place, could dispence with my time, I should desire to see you, and to have said thus much my self. God keep you to me, and to your native Country,

Iames Rex.

He lanquished two Moneths,Chancellour dies, his character. and died in October 1595. He was a man of rare parts, a deep wit, and learned also, of good courage against mighty Assailants. Mar was the man he most hat [...]d, the other the like to him. Both good men (accounting them Courtiers) private emulation I fear, more of Policy than virtue; yet with great reservation of his Majesties affection to either, and in general to the publique service, till, I know not how he failed, in this last act.

The King in some passion for his death▪ having little more to do it seems then, bestowed his Poetry, into an Epitaph for him of a dozen verses, which because I find them much bettered, in comparison of his Ma [...]esties after [...]ver [...]ying, his holy Meditations, in turning Davids Psalms into excellent Meeter, I shall silence these▪ and refer you to the other hereafter.

This year was held ominously evil in Scotland, dearth and scarcity of all victual, abundance of winds in harvest, the natural cause; blood-shed and slaughters in all parts, accounted unnatural, [Page] the curse of God haunting that Nation, where such Wars (we call them civil) cry down vengeance on the Inhabitants. Iohnstons and Maxwells had another bout in the South Parts. Those from the Western, the Maxwells, had much the worse.

With the Isles and High-landers likewise, great dissentions. The In-countrey no less behind, Murthers, slaughters. The killing of one, though a private man as to himself, engages his Kinsman, Master, or Chief, to procure the revenge. David Forester (but a Citizen of Sterlin) murthered in his journey to Edenburgh so I censure them that lay in wait by the way) we know not by whom; but see, the Lairds of Arth, and Dunny pearce, in malice to the man (because to his Master the Earl of Mar) endeavour to shadow the inquiry of the Inquest. The Earl, in this affront for his beloved Servant, convaies the corps with a Train of Mourners from Linlithgow, to Sterlin, carrying therewith the body bare-faced, and the sheet gory in blood with the dead wounds, and all to move compassion for revenge.

The body buried, Mar prosecutes some suspected; the Lords Levingston and Elphingston boulster out the men; No Law, nor Justice to be suffered for quiet and civil Tryal. No! these feuds will fight it out, and did, to future example of Gods Justice in the fall of these two families, much addicted to murthers and quarrels of blood.

This one, and some few such like, I mention for Presidents and Examples, not glutting the Reader with too many, which in every place fill up the Scots Chronicles, and which sundry of them boast of, for magnimity of Spirit, and honour to their Gentry.

We lately observed,The King assigns Commissioners of his Treasury the small effects the King found from the promises of England to aid him, which brought him to take care how to advance his own, other helps he had not. He commissioneth eight persons to govern his Exchequer, all of them Senators of the College of Justice, only Peter Young his honest Almoner. The Commission was ample in words and power, to them, or any five, To call to accompt all manner of Officers Accomptants; To Order and Rate the Rents. To alter and change any of the Officers. To do and act such and so many particulars, in terms and words, with such exact particular powers over the rent Gatherers; profits and duties of Caves, Customs, Fishings (take them as they are in this order) Cole-houses, Parks, Steadings (Fole Coults) Orchards of Apples; other Fruits, Conies, Capons, Geese. Good God, what not? Then to enterlace these, you have the other particulars, Money, Plate, Jewels, Mines of Gold, Silver, Lead, Tin. Certainly the West-Indie Fleets comes short of such wealth. But so the Scots use to accompt of their own.

[Page] And to countenance their pains and care. He promiseth verbo Principis, not to adjoyn any more, and if any did, the survivours to give their consent, for admition. They had authority to revoke, disclaim, to direct letters of Horning. (or Outlary) Pounding or Caption (suertyes) and many such like, &c.

These Lords make faith, &c. to respect his Majesties weal and advance of Revenew without affection or fraud. Provided not to be liable to Action, for the King. seeing they did all without fee. And proclamed at the Market Crosseat[?] Edenburgh, Iannuary 1595.

The Courtiers were blanck for such, must be their reward. But they complain as an injury to the Kings honour, having little to himself, and lesse for the meritt of any Man.

And to give them more Cause of Complaint. They begin to dispose of Places ere they fall [...]o the ground. David Magill Advocate, he is too old and dotes; and must admit of one of them till of grief he dies. The Master of Glammis somewhat in Arears of his accompts, and his deputy Sir Robert Melvil, the same, must resign their Treasury to the Prior of Blantiere ere they obtain their quieti sunt. Richard Cockhorn secretary, exchanges it to Lindsey for Privy Seal. The collectary Linchclowden given to Elphinston. And their President they would Create Chancelor. Soft Sirs. The King would not. These and many more made them Clamored by the Countrey. Somewhat they deserved amisse; But, the fate of favomites, and men of Trust, they bore the blame of all.

The Jesuite, much troubled to see the State, likely to settle into security, by the severe proceedings against Papists. Papists private plots. Whole families Grahams, Fentres, and others; the Lords banished; the fewds dissipated; and the Ministry, in some measure of mildnesse: They counsell how to involve both Nations, into some design together. And to set up A strang medley of Pretenders, by protext of several Claims (besides the Kings right) to the Crown of England. For they found by the sad affects to them, the birth of the [...]rince and likely hood of a numerous issue, if Queen Elizabeth failed and the King also, it were the same to their successors.

They devised double wayes,Devising sundry other Titles to both Crowns. Title, and Poyson the first was by Title (forsooth) of the Earl of Essex in England. Though no Catholick, yet his Ambitious and vain popularity (they conceived,) might quallifie his temper towards Religion, being of himself doubtfull in opinion, and so, his Clemencie would incline to Tolleration, of E. of Essex. if not profession of Catholick.

They drew his descent, from Thomas of Woodstock sonne to Edwarw the 3, And so to be promoted to the people, they dedicate a Book to him, stiled Dolmans (a preist) some say, written [Page] by the Jesuite Persons Cardinall All [...] and Iuglefield; discourse of legallity and pollicie, inchanging hereditary succession [...] England, by a new devised way of Election (only) of [...] Ro [...] C [...]tholick; Ravelling into the History of most English Kings, [...] be either not Legitimate or rightly uncapable.

The other Title, Of Spains. was of the in [...]ant of Spain; And therein they use their catholick doctrine, to make up with monstrous Lies and many;

1. From Constance, daughter to the Conquerour, married to [...]gat [...] of Britag [...]e (though all our Chronicles agree that she died without issue.

2. From Eli [...]or daughter to Henry the 2 married to Alphonsus of Castile.

3. And descends from Blanch his daughter.

4. From Beatrice, daughter of Henry 3 of England.

5. From the Portugall family of Iohn of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster.

Thus much Persons did then. And after the Queens death, he excuseth it to the King, as taking no effect. These were devised in case the King should have no issue then in being. Whilst the Jesuite Spaniard, practiseth by poyson to hasten the Queens death, and no lesse than three in the plot.

Roderick Lopez of the Jewish sectary;P [...]actice to impoyson Q. Eliz. by Loper. Physition to her household and of honest repute, till infected by Andrada a Portugall and don de Moro a Counceler of Spain; with a rich Jewell, in hand, and fifty thousand Crowns more to impoyson her, and this was certified unto Fue [...]tes, and Ibarra secretaries to that King in Flanders by Stephen Ferreira who writ Lopez his letters to them; & they returned Emanuell Lowise unto Lopez, to hasten the plot. These circumstances they confessed and were hanged.

The reason so many Portugalls in a knot, shews the time of freedome here, for them, under some pretence of don Antonio their pretended Prince, banisht thence and protected here.

There followed them to the Gallows, Cullen and Irish fencer, and York and Williams hired also by Ibarra to kill the Queen.Cullen, York, and Willians, and other fugitive tray [...]ors.

Of which she complains to Earnest Arch Duke of Austria Governour in Flanders under the Spaniard, that Ibarra [...]is servant hatcht these treacheries, to the Kings dishonour, if not by him punished; and to have the English and chief complotters, Owen, Throgmorton, Holcot, a Iesuite, Gefferd, and Worthington divines; delivered up to her.

We had of his here in England a fugitive, his late secretary Don Antonio perez for some mischief he set on foot in Aragon, Ant▪ Perez infected Essex. got away to save his head; And to the French King first, he revealed all his Masters secrets, who finding him of a pregnant wit [...], and malitious, sends him to his Lieger in England to work, [Page] into some faction or design, against Spain. And here he was, without pention or protection of the Queen; for she, nor Burgly the Treasurer would not vouchsafe to see him; nor did any other, give him countenance; unlesse the Earl of Essex▪ he did, to his cost, and used him as an Oracle of Spanish politie; sildome from his sight, but when it was supplyed with interchange of letters in latine, which Essex understood▪ and delighted in his phraze, and yet was not glutted, with threescore of them, whilst he resided here; They are extant, eztituled. Antonii Per [...]ii Epis [...]ol [...] ad Com. Essexiam Magnatem Angliae. They discipher him a buysie intermedler: fit fuell for the Earls spirit,

The French King turned papist (as we said) thereby winning the affections of his people, weakned the faction of the Leagues who also came in to the King, and so never left, till the Spaniard had took leave of them all. Onely those in Bretaign called thither by the Duke of Mercoeur, strenghten the Sea Coasts and resolve to stay, till by the valour of Norris by land, and Martin Forbisher by Sea, who though wounded with a shot there, returnd victor and died at Plimouth. And Norris called home, to look after Rebellion in Ireland.

There was publick Reports of the Spaniards mighty preparations by sea more then in 88 pretended against Britaign in France, Spanish de [...]ignes invasion of Scotland or England. which the King of Scotland feared might fall upon him, or England, or both; And therefore musters all his people, and secures the Borders, from pryvate quarrells of each other, or to infringe the peace and Covenant of both Nations, so firmly united, by Alliance and Religion. Language, and manners, that of late they seemed one.

But to divert Spains purposes, Queen Elizabeth joyns with France, who denounces warr against him▪ and is hotly pursued, in Luxemburgh and Picardy. Where he hath the better, Castelet, Dorleans, and Cambray taken; and the French crave more ayd from England, or to be forst, to make peace with Spain, whic [...] indeed she suspected; He being already received (conditionally) into the blessing of the Pope and conclave.

These successes hightned the Spaniards, Spaniards poo [...] successe▪ upon England. to adventure over into England from Bretaign in four Gallyes; under Command of Dudrack Brocher, and landed betimes in the morning, burnt [...] poor fisher Towns in Cornwall; and without losse of any one Englishman, stole home again. These, being the first and last Spaniards that ever in Enmity durst set foot on English ground.

And this their poor attempt, incensed the English to seek him at home, that they might feel the different effects of English designs.

Sir Walter Ralegh, Sr. W. Raleghs Guiana voyage and other attempts in the we [...] Indies. Captain of the Queens Guard, made an Expedition upon his Territories in America commonly called, [Page] the Guiana voyage,Anno 1596. within 8 degrees south of the Aequater. He burns some Towns and Cottages, and so returns.

Sir Amias Preston, and Sir Georg Summers, also sack and burn the Towns of the Isle of Puerto sant [...] neer Maedera and Coche neer Margereta; Coro, and the City Iago de Lion, but took money to spare Cumena.

Hawkins, Drake, Baskervile, with 6 of the Queens ships, and 20 other Men of warr, fire some Towns in the Isle Dominica in the West Indies and others upon the continent. But the event of that voyage, Hawkins and Drake died of sicknesse, and home came the Company poor enough for any Pillage; so we return to our Scots story.

This new year some time sets variance between both Realms. Armstrong taken prisoner in a treaty of the Borderers. The Lord Scroop for the West Marches of England, and the Laird of Backlugh for the charge of Liddesdale, design a Day of Truce to treat of disorders; and the meeting even at the Brook that divides both nations. Mr. Salcallk was Deputy for Scroop, and Robert Scot for Backlugh, and having met friendly, and composed some differences, they parted.

At their meeting was Armstrong (nick-named Will of Kinmouth) a notorious Thief for the Scots; he, returning home, was set upon by some English, and after four miles chase▪ brought him Prisoner to Salcallk, and so to the Castle of Carlile.

The Truce was broken (being accounted evermore from the hour of Treaty till next day Sun-rise) and the Prisoner is demanded.Backlugh complains to the Lo. Scroop. But Scroop refused, unless by order from the Queen and Council; The man being a notorious Malefactor, and Backlugh was modest, not to make many words, ere he procured Bowes the English Resident to write to Scroop for his inlargement, which not taking effect; the King writes to the Queen, nor that neither. Backlugh engaged in honour to the King, and his own right of Trust, Plots the Prisoners Release, this Way.

The Castle of Carlisle was surprizable,Backlughs designe to take the Castle of Carlile. and in particular at the Postern-Gate, the measure of the height he had; and there he meant to scale, or break through the weakness of the Wall, by Engines, and so to force the Gates.

Thus resolved, he drew up two hundred horse to Mortons Tower, ten miles from Carlisle; neer Sun-set he forded the River Es [...], and two hours before day he passed Eden, beneath Carlile [...]bridge, and so came to Sarcery▪ a plain under the Castle. And making halt under Cadage Bourn, he dismounted fourscore of his company, but his Ladders too short his men fell to mining, and himself retiring to the rest, to secure those which might enter against any eruption from the Town.

[Page] In fine the Breach opened entrance to single men, who brake through the Postern-Gate for the rest; The watch awaked, and made some resistance, but were soon seized into Guard, and afterwards the Prisoner freed.And frees Armstrong. The sign being forthwith given by sound of a Trumpet, a signal to the Souldiers without that the enterprize was effected within.

My Lord Scroop and Salcalk, were in the Castle, to whom the Scots gave the good night, and so parted. This Surprize was handsomely mannaged, having order from Backlugh to break open no door but the Prisoners Ward; nor did they do any more prejudice, though the Governour and Castle became under their power. Being got out, their Prisoners were returned; The Town took the allarm, and all in posture of war, but Ba [...]klugh; came back as he went to his own quarters two hours before Sun-set; the thirteenth of April 1596. a quick and resolute design, performed with civillity and honour, which troubled the English, to be out-done nobly in any Attempts.

For a Prisoner to be forced out of a strong Castle of Defence, so far within England, and so handsomely, troubled the whole State of England.

And Bowes the Ambassadour,Bows the Ambassador complains hereof. had post order to aggravate the fact, as a breach of peace, unless Backlugh were delivered to the Queens pleasure. Backlugh having done this gallant work, maintained his defence as discretly. That he marched not with design against any the Queens holds, or in wrong to any of her Subjects, but to relieve a Prisoner, unlawfully surprized, and illegally detained, being seized in the day of Truce; nor did he a [...]tempt his Relief until redress was refused. And the sober [...] civil prosecution, he was confident would be justified according, to the antient Treaties of both Realms, when mutual injuries were referred to Commissioners, as both their Majesties should appoint; to whom most humbly he doth submit.

This not satisfactory, the Queens displeasure took some time to consider,the Q [...]een offended. until a moneth after, it was remitted to Commissioners. The King stood upon Justice, and the rather against the Lord Scroop, for the injury committed by his Deputy.

And in truth and reason, it was less courtesie to take a Prisoner, than to relieve him, unlawfully taken. Yet all would not serve,Backlugh commi [...]ed. the Borderers make inroades upon each other; the English worsted in all▪ till King Iames, out of complement to his Kinswoman, grown old and peev [...]sh, [...] content to moderate her passion, by yielding unto the imprisonment of Backlugh to Saint Andrews, and then conveyed to England, more for form than guilt of punishment, and so sent home again.

The Isles were up, [...]bellion in the Orcades. a petty Rebellion, naked, cold and hunger soon suppressed themselves, yet in fear of Spanish Invasion, or [Page] a Receptacle [...]or Revolters, a thousand men were levyed under Col. Stuart, for fourty daies (the custome to assist the King) upon which the chiefs submit and give caution, to compeer before the King.

And as there was too frequent cause by these insurrections for this hurried nation,Assemblies make things worse. often to assemble, so in truth, little effects followed, as at this time, for the Ministers, to colour their intentions, would seem to enact against Self-Interest, and begin with themselves, and fast, pray and preach; daies of Humiliation, that was all that they would do, as to their reforming. But then there was sure to followcomplaint of the corruption of Courtiers, in the Kings Palace, and justice Seats, and fear of the banished Lords, and left not till the faults were found, such as are common, even to the best Estates.

Then would they ravel into Counsel of the Remedies; to which the King usually would afford consent; but by experience finding out their aim, and danger of them to be too severe and earnest (which they called zeal) the King wisely chekt the bit.

Telling them, That unless there were any evident proofs, that the Popish Lords,Policie to call home the Popish Lords. since their departure beyond Seas, had conspired with Strangers, to the prejudice of the Realm, in Religion or State, their cautions cannot in honor or justice, be convict, nor would he change the course of charity, and conditions to their wives and children.

And indeed in prudence, the King held himself unsafe, whilst such potent Lords were abroad; for much mischief they might do underhand, unheard, and unseen. And reasoning one day with Mr. Robert Bruce (a leading Minister) How much it concerned him to have them recalled. That Queen Elizabeth grown old, if de [...]th should seize her, he might need assistance of his own, Interest of State and honour would ballance these Lords, even against Catholique or Spanish Titles, or other Designs, and by such interest may be sooner drawn to the reformed Religion, than by compulsory extremity.

Mr. Bruce yielded to the Reasons,Mr. Bruce an enemy to Huntley. to call home Angus and Arroll, but not Huntley, being so much hated.

The Kings opinion seemed further to oversway. Because Huntley, saies he, hath maried my Cosin, one that I esteem; a man of Power to do good or evil, and so to be made accordingly.

In the end, Bruce was so bold, as to tell the King in plain terms,

I see Sir, (said he) your affection to Huntley, whom I must oppose and you, either loose, him or me, for both you cannot keep.

[Page] This insolency lost him the King. This for one example of many, which their own Historians record of their Ministers good behaviours, and certainly this mans ambition and popularity, out-vied the Kings, who espying his Trayn; that conducted him by the Court into Edenburgh, By my Sal, said the King, Bruce puts me down in his Attendants. The Popish Lords return home▪

The exiled Lords of themselves resolved to return, but withall possible submission, and to avoid the least suspition of jealousie; they separate; Arroll through Holland, Huntley came before, and out of the North sends Supplication to the King, and Convention at Faulkland, in August, to reside where his Majesty would appoint upon caution of good behaviour.

The King concluded aright. Either to ruin them and their race,upon Conditions. or to receive them all into favour, and hope of reforming into Religion. The first course, saith he, hath its own difficulties and trouble for me, if I could effect it.

The other is more consonant to my humour and mine honor, I desire not destruction; errors of conscience are not of matters of the mind. I like not to receive conditions from Huntley, rather to advise of commands to them all, with clemency and favour; which was submitted unto. And the publick joy of the Queens second Birth of a Daughter, Princess Elizabeth born August 16. 1596. made up the common reception of these Lords, to community and fellowship with the Congregations.

She was born in August the 16. day 1596. and to be baptized in November.

But now the Ministry make work,Ministers make work their Commissioners assembling at Edenburgh, send Post to all their Presbyteries, the State of affairs (for so is the Commission) That the forfeited Earls were come home without Warrant, are like to be received to mercy without submission for their offences of Treason, or reconcilement to the Church, and conditions confirmed unto them.

The Preachers Pulpit these tidings to their flocks, publick and private to provoke into Tumult, and to be in readiness to resist the dangers of Church and State. The first Sunday of December held forth for Humiliation, and then the power in the Minister to tell all to the people, and to inlarge as the zeal of the Spirit shall promp them. They assume power to call to account all manner of men; Entertainers, Receivers, or communicate with them to be canvased with the censures of the Church, Una citatione quia periclitatur salus Ecclesiae, & Reipublica. And with such busteling with several Commissioners from all parts of the Nation to make Residence at Edenburgh, and daily to convene, to receive intelligence from all parts, and return Edicts and Ordinances to prevent (if possible) the eminent ruin to Gods People.

[Page] And this daily Convention being a New Modell, so must it be stiled, The Council of the Church. And instantly they find o [...] make work; the Lord Sea [...]on, President of the Session, was [...] to account by the Synod of Lothian; The Coun [...]il of the Church Not that he was guilty, but that their power and pride might strike terror in the people, for as they had no proof at all, and so (as by President of the Popes inquisition) his Oath purges himself, assures him to their Conclave, and so gets home again.

This monstrous manner of muteny, makes the Men of State to foresee mischief,and the Kings Councel confer. and not being powerful to remedie, nor was it politick to publish their errors to the people, or scorn upon the face of the Church. The President, Secretary, Advocate and Laird of Colluthrie were commanded by the King to confer with as many of theirs. To whom they move the question, whether if these Lords satisfie the Church (otherwise his Majesty desires not) that then they might be pardoned and restored to their Estates. But receive a Court Answer, They came only to hear Prepositions, and to remit them to their Brethren. And so they did, with Apostolick Conclusion. Their acceptance of the Kings behaviour and respect to the Church, not to resolve of any favour to them Rebells, till the Church were satisfied. But their censure, by Gods Law condemned them to death, and being also sentenced to lose their estates, they cannot be legally pardoned, nor restored, or if the King or his Council, should take upon them to do otherwise, they were to answer it to God and the Country, themselves make protestation to be free, before God and man.

I shall not comment upon this Text. The Popish Sanadrin does so. An Historian of theirs calls it Passionate zeal, under which all impudence may be maintained, should they be ignorant of the tender bosome of the Mother Church, parent to Babes, and to repentant sinners? Mark their distinction, The Church hath power to do as she pleaseth; but the King must not, he must do justice.

The King is wroth against them all, common resentment, private and publick.The King is offended with them. And wise men advise the Ministers in prudence, to make address to his Majesty, and to understand his displeasure, and also to offer on their parts terms of satisfaction, and so modestly and mannerly to lay open the Grievances, and to offer means of redress.

Somewhat they did, not as they were advised, or ought to have done.

The King tells them, There could be no agreement, till bounds of Marches are designed, [...]or reconcilement, till Iurisdictions are distinguished. Their preachings, censured Councils of State, They convocate General Assemblies without him or his Warrant, and conclude as they please without his consent. They meddle with all matters [Page] in their Synods, Presbyteries and Sessions, and under colour of scandals, usurp that Notion to offend in all. Besides he could sum up several sorts of their disorders, which would take up time, their own guilt should study means to amend, otherwise things may become remediless, neither to agree, nor to last long without.

But to come to their points, what could it be to kindle such fires and fears?Their complaints.

The Kings favour to the Popish Lords at Falkland, and confirmed at Dunferlin.

His countenance to the Countess of Huntley, what [...] that? She is invited to the Princess baptism.

The Education of the Princess to the Lady Levingston, a Papist.

And to smooth all they condescended to say, They were sorry for his Majesties displeasure.

The last he took up first, Which the K. answers. That their abusive Sermons had given him in particular just cause.

To the Popish Lords, what he granted was by General Convention and consent of Estates; as needful for peace to the Realm.

The Lady Huntley was discreet, and deserved more, and that she is a Papist, they are too blame that never taught her the Truth.

The Princess is intrusted to the Wisdome and Government of the Lord Levingston, not to his Lady, he to command, she to conform.

Good God! their History of the Kirk, stories many, and many such Medlings, which I forbear to mention. By these and the like may be measured out their malice, pride, vanity, and their cunning, to colour all with conscience, and zeal of Truth.

But it becomes dangerous,The Minister Blake his muteny and story. Mr. David Blake, Minister of St. Andrews, rails in his Sermon against the King & Council, and Session of Estates, and called the Queen of England by name an Atheist, of no Religion. Bowes the Ambassadour complains, and Blake is cited before the Council. Melvil meets him, and makes it the common cause, as a preparative against all, to bring down the doctrine of Christ, under the censure of the King and Councel. And so far was it plotted with the Council of the Church, that they desert the day of his Diet (or appearing.) That it would be ill taken to question Ministers upon trifling delations. When, as the Enemies of Iesus Christ, were spared and protected.

Telling the King (who was descended, to shew them Huntleys condition,) That both he, and the rest should either satisfy the Church in every point, or be pursued with Extremity, and so no cause to complain of their oversight of Papists.

[Page] And though the Articles were framed, and Printed satisfactory to all. Yet they Publish, That Papists were favoured, the Ministers rebuked for siding against sin; And that the Scepter of Christ was sought to be overthrown. And if Master Blake should submit his doctrine to the triall of the Council, the liberties of Church and spirrituall Government of Gods House be quite subverted.

And by all means. a Declinator is designed▪ to protest against such proceedings.

And in this fire of zeal in opposition to better Councell, They answered, that the cause of God concern'd them to withstand all future hazards.

It was trusted to Blake himself, to present (in presence of the King.) I know not, whether prudentiall in me to suppresse it, for fear of evil President. But that it is a record. Take it in the Breef.

That howbeit his innocent conscience,Blakes r [...]monstance. maintained him sufficient, against the Calumnies of whomsoever, and that he was able and ready to defend his doctrine uttered, in opening the words or application i [...] matter. Yet seeing he was convened before the King and his Council, to be judged for his doctrine, and that his answering might be suspected a submission; and so imputed a prejudice to the Churches liberties; and to be taken as an acknowledgment of the Kings jurisdiction in matters spirituall; He was constrained to decline that judicature.

First, because the Lord Jesus Christ of whom we had the grace of his calling, had given him his word, for a rule to his Preaching. And that he could not fall in reference of any Civill Law, but so farr as he should be tryed to pass his instructions. Which tryal belonged only to the Prophets and Pastors, the spirits of the Prophets being subject to them alone, &c.

Secondly, in regard the liberties of the Church and discipline were confirmed by sundry Acts of Parliament and the Preachers. (office bearers thereof) peaceably possessed therein, perticularly in the indicature of the word, He ought to be remitted to the Ecclesiastick Senate, as the only compitent Iudges.

For which, and other weighty consideracons, inconveniences to Religion, the State and Nation, and to the King himself, by the appearance of destraction and Alienation of his mind, from the Ministery, and the cause of God in their hands. He for himself and in Name of the Commissioners of the generall Assembly, who had s [...]bscribed this Declinator, Besought, that the Church of God, might receive no diminution, but rather manifest care to maintain the same.

The diet came, and he required to make answer. Blake brought to his Answer. Said, That albeit he might object against the Citation, it being directed Super Inquirendis, contrary to form, yet he would take himself to the remedy of [Page] Law, and to be remitted to his own Ordenary.

Being asked whom he meant.

He answered, the Presbytery, where the doctrine was taught,

The King told him, the matters charged were civill; and that the Summons had reference to the particular letter of the English Ambassadour.

He replyed, that speeches in the Pulpit must be judged by the Church, in prima instantia.

Being asked, whether the King might not judg of facts of Treason, as well as the Church did matters of Heresie?

That whether speeches in the Pulpit, though but pretended Treasonable, could not be judged by the King till the Church had remitted thereof?

But he answered, That he was not come thither to resolve questions, and so offered his Declinator.

The King not able to amend what was amiss, meant to work it otherwise by remitting of further proceedings to Nov. 30.

Mean while, the Commissioners send copies of all transactions, to the several Presbyteries; The Ministsters factious courses requiring them for Corroboration to confirm the same by their subscriptions; To commend their doing as the cause of God in publick fasts and Humilliation for the sins of the Nation by prayer and preaching. The meaning thereby was, to tell the stories to the people, for maintenance of this their ill manners; And which the King interpreted, a direction to dangerous Mutenie, and future Rebellion. And therefore,

Proclaims all their particular proceedings, with remonstance of their Misdemeanors and to prevent disorder now,The King by proclamation dissolves their Assembly. and confusion to follow, by advise of his Councill discharges the commissioners, and dissolves their convention, illegal in it self, and worse unlawfully executed by them; Whom he commands by Name to depart home in 24 hours to attend their flocks and duties in their Ministery. And no wayes to return to convene either within or without the Burroughs of Edenburgh, under the pain of Rebellion.

But we tire the reader and yet hereby, we may discover what they did in such like many more, for to the death they will proceed. Hereupon they consult,The Ministers Counterappose the King. that seing they had been convened by the warrant of Christ, to take care of hazard to the Church, Et ne quid ecclesia detrimenti caperet. They should obey God rather than man. And notwithstanding any charge to the contrary, to continue together, and to send to the Octavians (those 8 Councellors of State formerly mentioned) that seing at the entrance to their places, the Church was in quiet and peace; and now to be imbroyled; the Enemies to truth overpowring, and all by their councels and connivance; The event of evil, must fall upon them, the Contrivers or Connivers.

The President hastily made answer, As they began so let [Page] them end; the Councills advice, neither was desired, nor given on either part, and therefore would not meddle between the King and them, but leave it to his Majesty and Nobles.

This answer taught them fresh advice; to remonstrate to the King himself by Messengers of their own; and fearing the effects (the Kings anger) humbly interceed, for surcease of Processe against Master Blake, Until his Majesty should be pleased to convoke an Assembly for deciding all controversies to the Kings content.

To which he consented, provided, they would passe by the Declinator, or at least to declare that it was not a Generall but a particular Declinator, used in Blakes case only, as being a cause of slander, and so, appertaining to the judgment of the Church.

This by the wiser, was held fit to be received, as an end of contention; No! Rather to stand to their tacklings, Gods cause, Against worldly powers. Ravelling into former examples, of prevailing against Princes. Others argued to try Mastery with Majesty, may faile of effects; as yet the Court stand in some fear of the Church, and to keep up their concept, let us take the best conditions we can, least our weaknesse appear, if we have the worst, and so the terror of the Church despised, or neglected; Much will portends little wit; and as it is often seen, who gripes at all, grasp nought but wind: and to levy all their wills, is to lose all their wits; of which, God send them more plenty than appears by their proceedings.

But not prevailing, the King proceeds to proclaim their departure and Blakes appearance as afore ordered.

The next day, sunday, solemnized the christning of the Princesse. Bows Ambassadour gave Her name from his Queen, Elizabeth. and the Town of Edenburgh, by their Majestrates, assisted as other witnesses. Yet all that day in the Churches were bitter invectives.

The Commissioners of the Church presented a Petition to the King and Council.The Commissioners of the Church petition the K.

That seing the decision of intricate questions could work no good, and was subtilly urged to ingender discention, between his Majesty and the Church, he would be pleased to remit the discision to a lawfull Assembly, and not to incroch upon the limitts of Christs Kingdom, upon any pretence, but to bend his actions against the common Enemie of the Church and state, the Papists.

Then they exhort the Noblemen to give his Majesty faithfull Counsel, and not to be subject to the guilt of sin, by the craft of such as seek the thraldom of the Gospel, who intend to exite their honours to be the Executors of their malitious devises.

With order to those that presented this Petition, that if the [Page] same was refused, to enjoyn them to protest against the preceeding of the Councel.

The King rejects it,Is rejected. as not worthy of Answer, commanding to call Blake to his summons

First, That he affirmed in Pulpit that the Popish Lords were returned with his Majesties knowledg and further assurance, wherein he had detected the treachery of his heart.

Secondly,Articles against Blake. that he called all Kings the Divells barns, and that the Divel was in the court and in the Guiders thereof.

Thirdly, That in his prayers for Queen Ann, he had used these words, we must pray for her, in fashion, but we have no cause, she will never do us good.

That he called the Queen of England an Atheist.

That he had discussed a suspention granted by the Lords of Session in Pulpit, and called them Miscreants and Bribers.

That the Nobillity were degenerate, godlesse, dissemblers, and enimies to the Church.

That the Council were Holliglasses, Cormorants and men of no Religion.

And that he had convocated divers Noblemen and others within Saint Andrews in June 1594. caused them to take arms in troops of Horse and Foot and thereby usurped the power of King and Council.

After reading of the summons, Robert Pont their Minister protested, that the processe in hand should not prejudice the Church.

To which the King answered that he meant not to meddle with matters of doctrine, but to censure, the treasonable speeches of a Minister, which he and his Councel would judg, except, that by scripture it could be held forth that Ministers were not subject in these cases to judicatures.

Blake makes answer;His answer. that the accusations were false, calumnies; producing testimonies of two, which he alleged should be preferred to a [...]y report whatsoever.

Next he said.

That to the first six points the Council were not lawfull Iudges of speeches in Pulpit, but the Presbytery, where the sermon was uttered.

And so presents a second Declinator.

But being put to voyces it was sentenced, That the crimes and accusations mentioned in the summons, were seditious and treasonable, and that the King and Council were competent Judges in all matters, criminall, or civill, as well to Ministers as other subjects.

The Council dissolved, the King willing to conserve peace and amity, to the Ministers offered terms of reconciliation and [Page] to return Blake to his charge and Pastorage.

Bruce answered, That if it concern'd only Master Blake, the offer might be accepted, but the liberty of Christs Kingdom, being wounded by the Proclamation, and by usurping spiritual Iurisdiction, of greater consequence then Master Blakes life and twenty more; and that if those things were not retreated they would oppose, during the last aspiration of breath.

The King the next morning treated with some of theirs.The King treats wit [...] them. Shewing how far he was from impairing spiritual Jurisdiction, that he would amplifie and inlarge the same; but (said he) to discourse of State in Pulpits is intollerable, I clame to judg in matters of sedition and civil and criminal causes; and of speeches that may import such crimes; and if the Pulpit should be a place of privilege, under colour of doctrine to stir up sedition, no good man will grant. If Treason and sedition be crimes punishable, much more comitted in the Pulpit, where the word of truth only should be taught. I am not ignorant what France of late and England formerly, have suffered by the violence of such spirits. And I may not indure it.

Hereupon, the Church finding the King resolved, desire some Declaration to be made to the people in favour of Church Assemblies, which they feared was hereby, of late somewhat weakned; which the King assented unto, and it was accordingly published, to give finall conclusion to these differences.

Blake was required only to acknowledg his offence to Queen Ann. And to be pardoned of all.

This he would not do, and was therefore sentenced. To have falsely s [...]andered and treasonably calumniated the Kings Majesty, his consort the Queen, his Neighbour Princesse the Queen of England, the Lords of the Council and Session, and that, till his Majesties further pleasure, he should be confined beyond the North water, enter ward within six dayes. and

Ten daies more were taken up,Both part [...]e [...] bandie. to decide these differences; and the King condiscends to lesser submissions than before. But the Commissioners refuse to agree to any censure of Master Blake, as not done by the proper Iudg. And so they ordain a fast, and pray, and preach complaints, of wrong done to the Kingdom of Christ.

The King on his part, made the grounds of his displeasure known to his people, by Decla [...]ation; setting forth particulars of the last Transactions. Ordaining all Ministers to subscribe their obedience to his Majesty; and to set their hands to the bonds presented to them to that effect, under pain of sequestring their rents and stipends till they submitted. Blake to go to ward, and the Commissioners to remove out of Town.

They increase Aspersions upon the King who willingly would [Page] have recalled these sentences and Publications, and some Ministers, were treated therein, till a scandalous Letter was devised and sent by under hand advise, that Huntley had private reception by the King over night and caused the charge against the Ministers. Balcanqual takes his text out of the Canticles, and so to present the troubles of the Church, relates the late proceedings which he calls treacherous forms of the Council, naming particular officers,

The President, and Controuler, and Advocate, with reproachfull raylings; and concludes to advise the Barons and Nobles to meet in the little Church for assisting the ministry. From them came a petition to the King in behalf of his Ministers, and presented to him in the uper house of session, with complaints, uttered by Bruce of all which had passed. The King declining the petition and remonstrance, asked who they were that durst convene against his proclomation. A Dangerous tumult. The Lord Lindsey passionatly replied, That they durst do more than so, and would not ind [...]re destruction of Religion.

Numbers of people thronging into the Room, the King removed, the people seduced by Lindsey and others, some said arm; others called out, to bring forth Haman, others cry'd out, the sword of the Lord and Gideon. And with much adoe, to appease the peoples rage, at they knew not what.

The Lords and Ministers meet, propose Articles to the King, and whilst they design who shall present them,The King and Council retire from danger. each one refusing. The King and Councel remove out of Edenburgh into Linlithgow.

Ordering a Proclamation to signifie the reasons of this departure, Proclaim. the Town being unsafe for his person and Council, and unfit for the administration of justice by the late in sufferable Tumults, commanding all Lords of session, Commissioners, &c. and their Deputies to remove out of the Town of Edenburgh, and be in redinesse to that place they should be after assigned. And the Noblemen and Barons to withdraw to their own Houses, and not to covene or Assemble, under pain of the Kings displeasure.

The City is amazed with these proceedings,Mad preaching not knowing what to do, or whom to trust unto. The Ministers night and day restlesse to get subscriptions, and to covenant, to call in certain Noblemen of note, Hamelton, Backlugh and others. Fast and pray, and preach what stuffe, best befits their projects, one amongst many others, Iohn Welch; takes his theam, the Epistle sent to the Angel of the Church of Ephesus, rayl'd against the King, who he said was possessed of a Divel, and one Divel (the King) put out, seven worse are entred in. That the Subjects might lawfully rise and take the sword out of his hand, by example saies he, Of a father faln into frenzie, might be bound [Page] hand and foot by his family from doing mischief.

Yet this execrable doctrine, was received by some; nay they preach, that the Earl Arrol had come to the Ferry with four hundred horse the day of Tumult, but the rising of the people, (as a providence of God for good) scattered his forces, in fear of the Town so prepared. And being Masters of all, they undertake to send Messengers to the Earl Hamelton, with letters, that the people animated by motion of Gods spirit, Their letter to Lord Hamelton to be Their head. had taken Arms, with the patronage of such Godly well affected Noblemen, and Brethren then at Edenburgh for the cause of God. Only they wanted a Head, an especial Nobleman to countenance their cause. And having made chioce of him, they invite him to Edenburgh, with all convenient speed, and thereby to signifie his affection, and to accept the honor which the Church of God had offered unto him.

It was writ and subscribed by Bruce, and Balcanquall and sent to Hamelton, who receives the Messenger with all shew of kindness, and seems to prepare his journey for Edenburgh; but, by the way, better advised, he turns to Linlithgow and presents the King with the letter,Hamelton comes to the King. who wondered at the modesty of the man, accounted more ambitious, than to neglect such a rise to tempt his humour, by whom had the letter taken effect, it might have caused strang Rebellions; when the Church had begun to act their part with so much power, a bloody issue alwaies following the pretended zeal for Religion, as the most part of Christendom have felt the miserable effects, and great Britain most of all.

The insurrection,proceedings against those disorders. and letter made work for speedy Counsel to act for the King, and the Provost had order for imprisoning the Ministers, who got loose, and fled to New Castle in England.

The Town send Commissioners to purge themselves, protesting their Innocenc [...]e, and offer their obedience, for repairing the indignity and dishonor done to the King, but served not for their purgation; for the next day, the Tumult was by the Counsel declared Treason, and the devisers, Actors, and Partakers to be Traytors.

Edenburgh smarted for all, the inhabitants in fear of desolation; Citizens brought to submit. the law-Courts removed to Lith; the Session to Perth; the Ministers fled; the Magistrates dispised; and all men without the walls, their enemies. And again most humbly supplicate the King with the best excuse for themselves. The King told them that he would proceed with them contrary to what they did to him, by form of law, not by violence: and that the estates should meet in the same place, where the dishonor was done to him, for their tryal and punishment.

The day before the convention. The keys of the Town submitted [Page] to the Kings officer; a guard of the Kings forces ranged the streets; and the Citizens disarmed, are commanded to keep within doors: the charge of the Town given to the Earl Marre, Is rejected. Lord Seaton, and Uchiltry. Thus prepared, the King enters with a train of Nobles, alights at the Talbooth, where the Estates did meet. The Provost Sir Alexander Hume, with the Baliffs and numbers of the City, fall down on their knees; and to pacifie the King, most humbly propose;

To purge themselves of the Tumult by oath before the Council, And humbly propose. having made diligent search for the Authors, a [...]d would proceed to inquire, or to a [...]sist any other officers therein. They promise never to admit of those Ministers pronounced Rebells, without his Majesties command; nor ever to receive any hereafter but at the Kings pleasure; and not to elect annual Majestrates without the Kings approbation, and to accept others whom the King would present. And in all, or any other manner, to submit, as his Majesty shall ordain; under protest that they take not upon them the crime of the Tumult.

See the effects of Rebellion, in general, if they succeed not, advance the Soveraign; so did this. The insurrection proceeding from the Ministers their Ecclesiastick Jurisdiction, submits alwaies after to the Kings authority. In these stories of Bruce before, and Blake now, the grand Incendiaries of their Riot, it appears how patiently the King proceeded, if possibly to have confirmed them, and to have secured his Prerogative with their priviledges, which he could never procure from them, without this oversight of their own.

Besides; how submiss are the Lay subjects now; and how high grows the King, and his Counsellors! Advice is offered; to raze the Town and erect a Pillar of repentance; a Monument of their misery; caused by their insolencie; and this their punishment. Others were lesse mild, but all for condign marks of revenge, to teach others their duties, for the time to come.

Nay Bowes, the English Ambassadour was out, and in, and in, and out, with his policies; he liked well to imbroile the State, but not to allow advantage to the King, for by the faction of the Brethren, all the designs of England were managed; and reciprocall assistance from them, to ballance their quarrels at home; and therefore Queen Elizabeth writes to the King her advice; fearing belike, too much pressing upon the Ministry according to their merrit.

My Dear Brother,

If a rare accident,Queen Elizabeths letter to the King. and ill welcomed News, had not broken my long silence, I had not used Pen-speech, as being carefull of your quiet, and mindfull of your safety. To omit the expressing of both, by letting [Page] you know how untimely I take this new begun phrenzie, that may urge you to take such a course, as may bring into opinion, the veryfying of such a scandal as you avowed to me to be farr from your thoughts. In this sort I mean it, some members of the Church with their Companies, have over-audatiously imboldned themselves, to redress some injurious acts, that they feared might overthrow their profession; which I grant no King for the manner ought to bear with, yet at the instant when the new banisht Lords returned, and they seem to be wincked at without restraint, and the spring time going on, when promised succor is neer hand, together with many letters from Rome & elswhere, which tel the names of men, authorised by you (they say, though I hope falsely) to assure your conformity, as time may serve you, to establish the dangerous party and fail your own.

I wail in unfeigned sort, that any just cause should be given you to call in doubt so disguised acts, and hope that you will so try this cause, as that it harm you not, though it ruine them.

Of this you may be sure, that if you make your strength of so sanday a foundation, as to call to your aid such as be not of your flock, when as the one side be foolish, rash, head-strong, and brain-sick, yet such as may defend you, having no sure anchorage for themselves, if you fail them; and the others, who have other props to sustain them, though they lack you, yea such as though your private love to their persons may invegle your eyes, not to pierce the depth of their treason; yet it is well known that their many petitions for foraign a [...]d, might have tended to your perril, and Countries wrack; for seldome comes a stranger to a weaker soil, that thralleth not the possessor, or indangereth him at least; I trust you think no less; or else they must justifie themselves to condemn you▪ for without your displeasure not feared for such a fact, no answer can shield them from blame.

Now to aver my folly, in seeming buysie in anothers affairs, I suppose you will not mislike, since the source of all is the care of your good, to desire that nought be done, that may imbolden the Enemie, decrease your love, and indanger your securety: This is in summe the line whereto I tend; and, God I beseech to direct your heart, in such sort as you please not your worst Subjects, but make all know in a measure what is fit for them, and make difference between error, and malice. So God bless you with a true thought of her that means you best.

Your most affectionate SISTER. Elizabeth Reg.

The Queen suspected,The King [...] merc [...]. that the King would have given extream [Page] punishment according to the fact, and so highten their adverse enemy the Papists; whose cause she urgeth as more guilty, to ballance them both, with mercy, not malice. This moderate Council it appears by the Kings former proceedings, he intended rather a mind to paliate than to urge the occasion of greater diferences. And accordingly no farther prosecution was made, only to pursue the Town criminally, and to appear at Perth. February next.

And the Octavians not agreeing amongst themselves,The Octavians yield up their office. gave over their Commission of Exchequer into his Majesties hand, fearing belike in this time of examination, and purging defection, they might come to a troublesome accompt; though generally, they gained repute of faithfull Stewards of the Kings treasure.

The King finding the Church affairs fall into his own hands, rectifies the abuses (crep in sates one) amongst their articles of discipline, I cannot say so; they were so framed and formed from the first; every day proceeding absurdities, not disputed how resonable, or religious, but as they made for their advantage so were they ordained, and obeyed.

And therefore a National Assembly is appointed at Perth, must regulate all; to treat and determine the bounds and excercise of the spiritual Jurisdiction. Articles being drawn up and printed for to enter upon consideration, with this Preface of the King.

He takes God the searcher of all hearts to record: That his intentions are not to trouble the Church with thorny questions, nor yet to claim to himself any tirany over the same, Only, to have these doubts, solved, to prevent debate to him, or his Successors, and to settle the policie of the Church, that so the corruption being removed, a pure Harmony might be fixed between him and the Ministers, to Gods glory, &c.

The Articles were at first drawn up to fifty five, and to be supposed that those questions were never decided, but effectually they were in use, to the prejudice of the King, and people, which no man till now durst dispute, being left loose for the Ministers mental reservation.

Many of them were much troubled; to submit their discipline to dispute, which they had assured the people to be part of the Gospel, and therefore mightily endevoured to prevent examining; but the business so far forward; the King had his party to press it on. A note of observation, what packing there was of voices for eithers advantage the policie of some; the late Generall Counsels of Christendome having taught the way; and these are apt [...] to learn.

And therefore the Northern Conscientious Ministers,The Northern Ministers are Courted. not as yet tainted with the Iesuitical tenents, were delt with, by a [Page] Message from the King to be distinguished from the Mutineers of Edenburgh; not esteeming them guilty of reproach, with such evil subjects. How well the King intended to them in particular, and so hopes, that their behaviour would evidence their resentment, of his Majesties favour and affection.

They are desired to subscribe to the bond in acknowledgment of the Kings royal power, and to accept the E. Huntleys offers, & to absolve him from excommunication; and reasons enow given for these. And lastly they receive the Copy of the fiftie five questions; and are desired to send Commissioners to the Assembly appointed at Perth.

They with reverence make answer,Their answer That as they were ignorant of the Tumult and the Ministers flight so they were silent in their judgment and censure. This though in the general. The Authors of that insurrection were Traytors; and if Ministers, to be double punished.

They had sworn to his Majesties power and regallity, when they were admitted Ministers, and would never decline it.

The bond mentioning Master Blakes speeches in Pulpit, concerning application of doctrine, which his Majesty had pronounced as a question to be decided in the next Assembly, they humbly reserved themselves, til that time.

And for the Earl Huntley, his repentance should be most acceptable, and they were content to conferr with him, and use all means for his resolution; fearing they should not find him earnest for absolution.

And least the Ministers should have cause to hank upon jealousies of the Kings favour and affection to the Popish Lords;The King writes to Huntley especially to Huntley, for whom in truth he had earnestly endeavoured reconciliation. He therefore writes to him peremptorily, either to make faith, and satisfie the Church, or be banished for ever.

The day come;Twelve Articles from the King to the Assembly. the Assembly meet. But not to trouble them with all those fifty five Queries formerly printed, the King remits them to the future; contenting himself for the present with a dozen Articles to be determined possitive.

1. That it be lawfull to the Prince, or any pastor, to move doubts, and crave reformation of any points in external policie, and discipline of the Church, not concerning salvation, nor defined in scripture; and to be done, decenter, animo aedeficanti, non tentandi.

2. That the civil and politick goverment of the Realm, belongs properly to the Kings office, and his Counsellors, and not pertinent to the spiritual Ministry of the word; nor to meddle in matters of state, nor his Majesties Laws, Statutes or Ordinances in the Pulpit.

[Page] 3. That Ministers shall not name particular men in Pulpit, except upon notorious crimes, as of fugitive, or excommunication.

4. That in application, the Minister have respect to his flock, without extravagant discourses impertinent.

5. That every Presbytery, take diligent accompt of the doctrine of their ministry.

6. That Summary excommunication be utterly discharged; and the sentence, to follow three Citations, at eight days distance.

7. That no sentence, or censure proceed from any Assembled, but of those within their bounds.

8. That all summons containe speciall cause and crime, and not super inquirendis, quod est mere tiranicorum.

9. That no meeting be without the Kings consent, except the ordinary session, Presbyteries, and Synods.

10. That in principal Burghs; no Minister be placed without the consent of the King and the flock.

11. That seven or eight discreet Ministers, be authorized to reason upon the rest of his Majesties Questions; till time serve.

12. That the Northern Ministers absolve the Earl Huntley fromexcommunication; if he satisfie the Church.

Their answers to each were not received satisfactory, and therefore they attend the King and Counsel;Submitted unto in effect where his Majesty reasons with them the justness of his desires, and after serious consideration they conclude to the Kings liking. A commission was granted to some of them to reconcile the Popish Lords to the Church, And Articles ordained for Huntley, Angus, And Arrol to subscribe. which they did.And all ends in content. The Ministers taken into protection and grace; and all Papists in general (except the Lords) to depart the Realm before Iune. And all the former offenders, and Mutineers remitted to pardon, which hapily concluded the end of this year.

And to shut up all with the time, let us take leave of Iohn Lesly, Bishop [...] death and [...]haracter. Bishop of Ross, who took leave of this life at Bruxells in Flanders, his constant abode since the execution of his Excellent Princess, Queen Mary of Scotland; a man, memorable with reverence, for his faith and constant service, to his Sovereign; and his extraordinary care and trouble, travelling to most Princes in C [...]ristendom, to interpose their credit, with Queen Elizabeth for her relief, induring all hardships for her sake, examinations, disputes, imprisonings, and at last, banishment out of England, as you have heard, leaving his Mistriss without hope of redemption from her Captivity. And therefore administers his last and best service, spiritual consolations, which he purposely writ to her in a Treatise, printed and published, full of piety and learning. [Page] those no doubt composed his own mind with patience and comfort, after her sad and miserable death, which he bore off for some time, till sorrow seized him into a languishing sickness. He composed the Gests of his Native Countrey into Latine from the beginning of that Nation, to his last time. He was servent in his faith, zealous, and charitable, and died as he alwaies professed, a Juditious learned Romish Catholick. And so let us see the affairs in England.

The Queen, to divert the growing greatness of the Spaniard, The Netherlands called to account. had assisted the Netherlands ten years in their rebellion (as some stile it) against him; and now considered, that whilst she established their tottering territories, her self became poor, and they had plenty. And therefore by Bodly her Ambassadour,400001 per annum, in ten years, 4000001 dept. she demands to be eased of her charge in her Auxilliaries, and to be paid some part of their dept, to her lendings.

These promise to ease the Queen of her fourty thousand pound per annum, that shortly they would pay her, twenty thousand pounds, part of their dept, and not enter into league with any, without her consent, and after a peace with Spain, they would pay her a hundred thousand pounds yearly, for four years, the full dept, humbly imploring four thousand men, and to be raced out of her accounts for all by past. To which she consented; least by her neglect, they should be inforced, to disjoynt their Confederacie with her, and rejoice their common Enemy. Against whom, she was rigging a Navy, and would have thirty of their ships to adjoyn, and so they pieced again.

Her Rebells in Ireland increased to 1000 horse,Iris [...] rebells increasing. 6280 foot in [...]lster, 2300 in Connaugh, all at Tirones beck; wherefore she sends over Narris to assist her Deputy in equal power.Norris goes over assistant A marvail to many, a too headed Government, being monstrous in policie, as well as in Nature; so that crafty Tyrone treats with Norris and gets Truce for a time, who suttly took leasure to hatch and plot greater mischief.

The spring time begets a Treaty, with the Queens Commissioners, sent over to Ireland to receive the Rebells complaints, They desire free [...]se of their romish Religion, and enjoyment of their lands Ecclesiastical, and others, upon reasonable annual payments; all which, the Commissioners counterpoyze with conditions more strickt for them to submit, which they refuse; bu [...] between them both, they continue Truce tell April after. Which time the Queen took to consider; and Tyrone secretly to deal with the Spaniard, for a compleat Army, to their succour.

The Duke of Parmadead, Albert Arch-Duke of Austria, and Cardinal, succeeds him, Governour for the Spaniard in Flanders, Callis taken by the Spaniard. and to credit his new-come Authority, (usually with Commanders) [Page] he prepares fresh forces on the sudden, beseiges Calis, and takes it from the French. The Queen startled at the report of the Cannon, which she heard into the Chappel at Green-wich▪ ere she knew from whence.

But then, afraid to perrish in her Neighbours fires, raises an Army,the English Navy. and a Navy of 140 ships, 18 of her own▪ 22 of the Dutch, the rest for necessary service; and 6360 souldiers; Volunteers 1000; Mariners 6722. The Lord Admiral Howard Commander in cheif at Sea. The Earl of Essex by land, their design was against the Enemies ships, or provision of amunition, rumored to be sent against England Scotland and Ireland; of greater power then in 88, and to land upon some of the Coasts, and Towns, She thought in piety to pray for success, and that God might not be mocked with several bablings, as the fancie should affect (and now newly in fashion to form it, ex tempore) she prescribed them therefore, the manner, that the world also, should be witness of the true ground of her publick Actions.

Most omnipotent God,Publick form of prayer for success of the Navy. that searchest and fadomest, the secret conceits of the heart, and in them, the true Originalls, of our actions intended. Thou knowest, that no malice of revenge, nor quittance of injuries, no desire of blood, nor lucre of gain, hath bred in us a resolution now to set out our Armie, but a h [...]edful care, and wary watch that no neglect of the Enemie, nor security of our selves, might breed danger in us, or glory to them; these being our grounds, we humbly beseech the to prosper the work, and with the best fair winds, guide our Navy, and if it be thy will speed us with victory, and the end to thy glory, thou the same, and we, peace to the people and on all sides, spare the blood of thine, for they are pretious. To these petitions, grant thy blessings, for the merrits of Christ, Amen. In those daies they prayed so, and people understood it.

It was a wonder, whether they went, for themselves knew not,Take Cadiz Called Cales voyage. till at the hight of cape Saint Vincent they opened the Commission, which commanded them for Cadiz, the sowth of Spain, and mouth of the Straits. They take the City, burn and sack the Iland, and ships.

The loss to the Enemy valued twenty millions of ducats of eight shillings sterlin money. And Essex having Knighted sixty Gallants, with honor, and every man inriched with spoile, they return, this success set up Essex, into a ranting vain, not to be moderated with any Counsel. His extravagant designes by the way homewards, not to return so soon till he had done somewhat more famous. An observation of pride and ambition then, set that mark on him, that lasted to his last breath.

To repair these losses, Spain riggs a great Navy at Lisbone, designed for the West of England and Ireland, which by storm were seperated and many shipwrackt, the rest return.

[Page] And now it was time for England and France to fortyfie their former League, and for Queen Elizabeth to send thither 2000 foot, into Picardie.

These were times of Action and Honor, and because no place circumscribes valour. An English Noble man Thomas Arundel of Wardour, for his service in Hungary against the Turk, is created by the Emperour, Earl of the holy Empire, and to his Successors, male or female, and have place and voice at the Emperial Diets,Digression how farr foreign titles preceed at home. and free Denizens. From whence arises a question of their use, and precedency at home.

The defence may be from Presidents. Henry the third of England allowed it to Mohume, created Earl of Somerset by the Pope.In England. Henry the eight did so by Curson whom the Emperour made Earl of the holy Empire.

In Scotland Earl Dowglas had the title of Duke of Tours from the French King, and so had John Stuart the Earldom of D'Everux.

The Exceptions are more ancient. No man being a Citizen of Rome, could accept freedom elsewhere, At Rome. Pompeyus Atticus refused therefore to be of Athens.

In Venice and Genoa. No man may receive dignity either Spiritual or Temporal from any forraign Prince,Genoa. Venice and for which he is suspected, and suspended all office at home.

And indeed the Earls of the Empire, are too common to have precedencie, or value abroad.

And for the Scots,Scots. their Kings coat of Arms, engralles them with their fl [...]wr'd Lis, and so under tuition.

Valerian the Emperour said, let that only be Honor which we create. Queen Elizabeths censure was this. That, as a wife should dedepend on the man; so a subject to receive no love tokens, but ftom his Sovereign, she knowes not her own sheep, by anothers brand, nor willing they should obey a strangers whistle.

Indeed, Nobilitas is derived of Nosco to know. Vir Nobilis idem est quod nolus, & per Omnia. But our Law doth prohibit any Subject of this Nation to receive Titles of Honor, or dignity of the gift or donation of a forraign Prince, it being belonging to the State of this Nation, est ius Majestatis & inter insignia summae potestatis, vide Cook 7 part.

And if such a man bring an Action and the writ be so stiled; the defendant may plead Abatement of his writ.

Nor shall any Nobleman of any other Nation, hold plea in England by his name of dignity, but only by his name of baptisme and Sùrname, Cook 7. part.

Nay, though he mary in England, and have issue here, the Father dying, his Son shall not bear titles of his Fathers Honour, because the title had original by a forein Prince, and not by English Peerage. [Page] Nay, a more strange case. A Postnatus of Scotland or Ireland, (who is a natural Subject of this Land) be he the Heir of a Nobleman, yet he is none of the Nobility of England. But if the King summon him by writ to Parliament, and therein, stiled by that foraign Title, then from thenceforth, he is a Peer of England 39 Edw. 3 36.

But more, and worthy observance: A Knight of any foreign Nation, shall be so named in all our Courts of Pleas, (for the highest and lowest dignities are universal) 26 Edward 4 39 Edward 3.

And so shall any foraign King be sued here by his Title, otherwise the writ shall abate, for observe the person of a foraign King shall be here impleaded for debt, or trespass of life, so an Ambassadour. Pardon this digression and now we return to Scotland.

The King grants a Commissi [...]n to certain persons,The Popish Lords submit to the Church to see conditions performed by the Popish Lords in reference of their obedience to the Church, and for them also, to subscribe to conditions for peace and quietness to the King and Country, under caution of 20000. And in particular for Huntley to be advised by some Lords assigned, to counsel him especially concerning the Kings service.

But to prevent the Kings publick intentions,Proclamation against Gaurdon a Jesuite. comes over from foraign parts, one Iames Gourdon, with designes of Treason, and to deterr Huntley from subscribing, against him was publisht a Proclamation, and a thousand Crowns to apprehend him.

At which time, there was discovered a practi [...]e of surprizeing the Isle of Elsay in the West Seas for receiving forces resolved upon by the Spaniard to be sent thither.Barcklayes de sign discovered he drownes himself. The contriv [...]r of this design was Barklay the Laird of Ladyland who had escaped out of Glascow prison last year, and now returned from Spain, and was secretly gotten to this Isle, being. a high rock four miles compass, and thereon an invincible Tower somewhat ruinate of difficult access which he meant to victual. But was sodainly surprized by one Knox, who landing on the shore, Barklay was walking down the Hill to take view of the Company; not mistrusting to be known. And finding that he was thus betrayed, ran into the sea and drownded himself. The news whereof comming to the Popish Lords, made them the sooner conform; which they did forthwith.

The King thus inabled to command, ordains several Commissioners to reduce such families in the North, that were in fewds, particularly these between Huntley and Murray as you have heard; Huntley and Forbes; Arrol and Ladwhern, Drum & Frendraught; men of considerable fortunes and fewds, so that the North was cleared and quiet.

And now the King reminds the late behaviour of the Malapart [Page] Minister, Blake who was couvented before Commissioners at Saint Andrews his Church concerning his Treasonable speeches in his former Sermon, whereof he had been convicted before the Council,Blake the Minister [...] out of all. and was now further accused, as wondrous factious, and so condemned, and turn'd out of all.

And thus visitations being made through all Churches and Presbyteries a strange reformation followed, both there and in the University, and not only Inquisition of their Doctrines and behaviour therein,Excellent reformation in the Vniversity but also concerning the Managment, of Lectures, Offices, Revenues, Rents, all out of order, untill this blessed way of altering all, for good. But more especially, in the Colledges, in place of divinity Readings; Politick questions were raised; whether the Election or succession of Kings, were the better Government. How farr the regall power extended▪ whether Kings may not be censured for abusing the same and deposed by the people.

The King therefore prescribes the professors their Theam;

The first Master, to read the common places to the Students, with the Law and History of the Bible.

The second Master, to read the New Testament.

The third, the Prophets, Ec [...]lesiastes and Canticles.

The fourth, the Hebrew Grammer, with the Psalms, Proverbs, and the book of Iob.

A Council appointed for the Universitie, and that for their better improvement and studies; the Doctors, Professors, and Regents, not being pastors should be exempted from Church-meetings, Sessions, Presbyteries, and Assemblies, these Orders and Articles, assented and sworn unto in presence of the King.

And being Northward, where pittifull ignorance possesses the common people. Amongst many, one Margeret Attkin, Witches discovered, apprehended upon suspition of witchcraft, and threatned with Torture, confessed her trade, and discovering her associates, to purge the Country of all, if she might have but pardon, she gave her reason to be assured of their guilt, all of that sort having a secret mark in their eyes, by which she could certainly discover them, to be witches, and had by deceipt (the Devil also assisting (gotten credit and belief, and so carried through the Country for discovery of others,Margaret Atkin [...] and divers innocent women by her asseveration at Glasgow (through the ignorant simplicitie of Master Iohn Cooper Minister,) were put to death. But some, wiser than the rest, altered the women, into other habits, whom she would then acquit, and so she was sent back to Fife her first aboad, and then hanged. But belying her self, in what she had confessed, she was by some supposed not guilty, and the King was moved to recall the Commission which authorized proceedings against such seducers.

[Page] And yet the fearfull abounding of these detestable slaves to the Divel, moved the King to dispatch hastily a Treatise to the press of Doemonologie in form of a Dialogue, and devided into three books.Digresses concerning witches and witchcraft.

1. The discription of Magi in special.

2. The discription of sorceries and witch [...]raft in special.

3. The discription of all these kind of spirits, that trouble men or women, and the conclusion.

Against the damnable opinions of two,Maintainers. principally, in that age. One Scot, an English man, who denies in print, such a thing as witchcraft; and so maintains the old error of the Saduces, in, denying of spirits.

The other, of Wierus, a Germain Physitian in his publick Apologie for all witchcraft; discovering thereby, himself to have been one of them.

The Kings indeavour is to prove two things. That there have been, and are such devilish Arts, and secondly what exact tryal and severe punishment they merit. And reasoning upon Genus, he leaves species & differentia to be comprehended therein, for example; In the first book Chap. 6. (speaking of the power of Magicians.) He saies, that they can suddenly by their spirits, cause to be brought, all kinds of delicacies, since as a thief he delights to steal, and as a spirit subtilly transports them, under which Genus, all particulars may be comprehended; as bringing wine out of a wall, &c. proved by reasons of the general.

In the second book [...] Chap. 5 That witches can cure or cast on diseases; the same reason, that proves their power by the Divel of diseases in general, their power in special is also proved; as weakning the nature of some men towards women, In others, to abound above nature, and so of particular sicknesses. But in all, he observes the different ends of God, in the first cause, and the Divel as his instrument in the second cause, as Gods Hangman.

For where the divels intention, is to perish in the patient soul, or Body, or both; God, by the contrary, draws evermore out of that evil, glory to himself; either by destruction of the wicked, or tryal of the patient, and amendment of the faithfull, being awakened by that rod of correction.Several Authors in this subject.

But, who likes to be too curious, of all their Practises, read but Bodinus Daemonomancie, collected with greater diligence than Judgment. And further, if you would be acquaiuted with the opinions of the Ancients concerning their power, It is well described by Hyperius and Hemmingius, two Germain Authors. Besides, many other Neoterick Theologues, largely setting down that subject.

And if, curious and inquisitive, of the rites of this unnecessary [Page] Perilous black-art; the Divel may too soon, direct any, unto Cornelius Agrippa, and Wierus afore mentioned.

I know, how it hath been of late urged, that King Iames was not of the same mind alwaies; and very tender of his Judges [...]roceedings, ignorantly condemning some innocent Melancholly simple old women; whose miserable poverties, made them weary of life, and easily to confess themselves guilty, of they knew not what, though in sad condition, otherwise; liable to Satans suggestions and deceipt.

And so busied himself with curious perspicuity, into tryal examination and discovery of sundry counterfeits, pretenders to be possessed by evill spirits. But yet, to my knowledg, he was ever constant to his former opinion, of witches and witchcraft, in particulars I can evidence.

The King thus busied to quiet the North Countries, some Incursions were made on the Marches of each Nation, the outlodgers of Tindale & Riddesdale for the English made in rodes upon the Scots County of Liddesdale. The Laird Backlugh commander of those parts, does the like into England, and apprehending the chief mischief-makers 36, puts them all to the sword, and returns with great spoil. Against him is Sir William Bowes sent from the Queen to complain, and with much adoe reconciled. And for the future peace of the Borders, the time was assigned for Hostages to be delivered on each side to either.

But Backlugh fayling to perform his part, was feign to satisfie the Queens displeasure by entering himself into England, as Hostage, where he continued some Mo [...]ths.

Queen Elizabeth evermore upon actions of diversion (never upon conquest) to assist her neighbours,Expedition of Earl of Essex to the Isles of Azores. French and Netherlands, prepares another Navy against Spain of 120 sail under command of Essex, and Lord Thomas Howard, and Sir Walter Ralegh in three sqadrons. they set out of Plymouth, but are weather beaten back, and put forth again; but become distressed, ere they get cleer of land; and so return. And after fresh supply of men and victual, they resolve for the Islands of Azores.

In the voyage by the way cross winds seperate Ralegh, who being missed when the others came there. Essex overhastily sent intelligence by a Bark into England; that Ralegh had on purpose, seperated himself from the fleet. But he, hastily coming in,Essex and Ralagh differ. unto them; that rash act of complaint, was excused by Essex, which Ralegh resented ever after. And he landing on the Isle of Fiall before Essex came thither, takes the Town, which being misunderstood, as in dispite of Authority, they are peiced again.

They land upon Gratiosa, and Flores, take the spoil, and depa [...] unto other Ilands, to seek the Spanish India fleet, which was then [Page] to come home. And no sooner departed, but within two houres after the whole fleet of 40 sail, full of treasure arrives there, and meets with some of the English ships. But ere Essex came in, they were shrowded under the safety and shot of their own Castles.

Yet Essex lands farther off and takes Villa Franka, burns a great Carocque ship. But not much done in answer to Essex his ranting intentions, they return, in some distress by the way, home.

And being come to Court,Come home and quarel at Court. the Repetition of their several incounters moved contention between Essex and Ralegh, casting all misfortunes on each other. Besides Essex now blown up with ambition, was offended, that Sir Robert Cacil in his absence was made Secretary of State, and Chancellor of the Dutchie of Lancaster, emulous of his wisdom, and besides, he was then Raleghs great friend. But more malitious, That the Lord Howard Admiral of England, was created Earl of Nottingham; with some Testimonialls mentioned in his Patent, That he had secured England from the Spanish invasion of 88, and that (joyntly [...]ith Essex) he had valiantly taken the Iland and City of Cadiz, and that he had there wholly destroyed the Spanish fleet, designed for their assault of the Kingdom of England, but Essex would have it fancied, he did all himself.

For he that usually ascribed, all the glory to himself, could indure no Rivalls; especially, that Nottingham, now Earl took place of him, and all others of the same degree, as being Admiral, according to the Statute of Henry the 8.

That the high Chamberlain, high Constable, Marshal, Admiral; high Steward; and Chamberlain should have prehemin [...]nce of all others of the same degree of Honor.

But to please Essex, He is therefore made Marshal of England, and so his pride took place of the Admiral. This I note in particular, to shew, by what steps and degrees of distast, He took occasion to turn Traytor not long after. See Anno 1600 and so we return to Scotland.

The winter quarter brought the Estates to Edenburgh, A Parliament at Edenburgh. and the King timely holds a Parliament in some respects for restoring the Popish Lords (now called Proselytes) to their honors and lands. And the Commissioners for the Ministery are suiters for sundry Articles. Amongst them this was one. That the Ministers representing the Church and third estate of the Kingdom might be admitted voice in Parliament, according to several acts here to fo [...] in favour of the Church, and the libertie, and freedom.

The King was earnest therein to please them,Ministers voice in Parliament. and had it past. But then obtained the manner as for himself; thus.

That such Pastors and Ministers as his Majesty should please to provide [Page] to the Place and Dignity of a Bishop, Abbot, or other Prelate at any time shall have voice in Parliament, as freely as any other Ecclesiastical Prelate had at any time by-past. And that all Bishopricks then in his Majesties hands and undisponed to any person, or which should happen to fall void hereafter, should be only disponed to actua! Preachers and Ministers in the Church, or to such other persons as should be found apt and qualified to use and exercise the Office of a Preacher or Minister; and who in their provisions to the said Bishopricks should accept in, and upon them, to be actual Pastors and Ministers, and according thereto should practise and exercise the same.

But the Office of them in the spiritual Policy and Government of the Church was remitted to his Majesty and to the general Assembly; and so hereby occasion was soon taken to assemble at Dundee. And first advises them to consider, Whether it was lawfull and expedient that the Ministers as representing the whole Church within the Realm should have Voice in Parliament or not? It was concluded for them, They might; as also in other meetings of the Estate, and very expedient to have some of them always present to give Voice in the name of the Church.

The number of them was agreed upon to be one and [...]ifty persons, (as of old in the Papistical Church. But then, who should elect those to have voice? They were pleased with much ado to grant. It did appertain, partly to his Majesty, and partly to the Church, and so it came to after consideration. De modo eligendi: whether ad vitam. What their Title? with caution to preserve them from corruption? What their Rents and Revenues? with a number more such circumstances are recommended to their Presbyteries to consider, and so to certifie his Majesty.

And because it was time for the Kings grace and favour to remit to mercy the Edenburgh Ministers, such as of late were silenced, to suffer them now to preach again, but with such articles and conditions as bound up their better manners to the Kings turn, not their own old tunes in the Pulpit. Nor were they safe as they thought they should be, till the King was pleased to declare, That he did freely remit their former offences, in hope that they would hereafter deserve it. And so were all persons concerned in the late Tumult and all others in honour to the King and charity to their brethren concluded and contented. But Mr. Iohn Davidson a malitious man, he being behinde hand of preferment, protested against the Assembly, as not free, but over-awed by the King. And when he had put his Spoke into the Wheel slip [...] aside, but left it in motion with more ado than was meet to make such a stir.

Mr. Robert Bruce a Preacher there for ten years,Bruce refuseth imposition of hands. yet never received Ordination to the Ministery, pretending the approbation of the general Assembly equivalent, if not more sufficient. He [Page] was told, that the Approbation which he had, was only a Licence to preach, but now to receive the Office, it was necessary thereto, Imposition of Hands. No, though he was instructed, that the Ordination was not to question his former Calling, but to confirm it; nor would that serve, unless he had a Declaration to him thereof set down in writing.

A whole fourteenight was wasted to make the form, to please him, and others that sided for him, and his day of admission came. Mr. Robert Pont in the Pulpit signified their business, and being come down to assist the work. Bruce was got up in his place, railed against all the acts of the Commissioners, and with his Tongue raised such a Tumult of the Commons, that the poor Ministers appointed to administer Ordination were in fear to be stoned by the people, and so got away, and nothing done.

Upon this this the King commands the Commissioners to cite Bruce, but at last is so admitted. and censure him. He did appear, but excused himself, and laid the fault on the peoples affection to him; and being afraid what would be the issue, pain of deprivation, gave obedience, and accepted his Admission, with Imposition of the Hands of two Ministers. Here was seen his perverse pride and wilfulness, which fools referred to his true zeal.

And this good conclusion of the general matters of the Church gave like success to the conference at Falkland, determining their Votes in Parliament, concluding the manner of his Election, who was to have Vote in Parliament, that the Church should name for each Prelacy six, whereout the King should chuse one.

That the nomination of them should be made by the general Assembly.

And his Rent provided out of the Prelacy, whereunto he is preferred.

With such cautions to preserve him, as was not to be feared he could transgress his bounds, or be deposed ipso facto; but his Title should be called Commissioner for such a place, &c.

Indeed, some of the Articles of Caution were ridiculous and absurd to be performed, but such was the Kings wisdom to consent to all their conceits, knowing that in time the benefit and good use of this Government would appear, which he purposed (says one) to have established, or rather, to permit those inconveniences, until weight of their own sufferings should betake themselves to abler conclusions.

The King having greater Councils of more importance to him, next to the settlement of the Church, and not till then proper for him to ascertain. Queen Elizaheth was grown old and weak in body, nor well in minde, and it concerned him to establish [Page] to himself, such affectionate Princes in whose relations he might finde aid and assistance when time served.

To that end he considers of Ambassadours,The King sends Ambassadors to the German Princes. David Bishop of Aberdeen, and Sir Peter Y [...]ung Almoner, men of great abilities and learning. They had in Commission to inform the free Princes of the Religion in Germany, his Majesties Right and Title to the Crown of England, and to assure to them his singular care and endeavour now and always to conserve amity with them all; Not that he minded injury to the Queen, whom he had just cause to honour as his Mother, and to wish and pray for many days to lengthen out her ample years; but yet to strengthen himself against foul pretenders he craves their consideration, and to be pleased in common Ambassage to intreat the Queen as their best advice, to declare (in her own good time) the right Successor, for preventing plots and practices of her and his Enemies, &c.

They had command to turn out of the way, and to take Letters commendatory of the King of Denmark his Brother-in-Law unto each of those Princes, which were Udalrick Duke of Megleburgh, Maurice Lantgrave of Hesse, Frederick Duke of Saxony and Administrator of the Electorite, Henry Duke of Brunswick, Iohn Adolph Duke of Gleswick, and Ioakim Marques of Brandenburgh. To each of these single made their Journey tedious, difficult, and took up much time, a whole year. Then they return with their Answers, in substance alike.

That albeit his Majesties right was well known to them,Their Answer. they did esteem it an Act of great wisdom in him, to acquaint his Friends and Allies with the Exceptions which some may presume to take to his just Title, that so, when occasion required, nothing might be amiss for them to do for him within their power. But to move the Queen to name her Successor, they excused themselves therein, as more dangerous to him than usefull to his intent, lest it might less promove the business, and offend her. Always (each of them) would advise, but counsel together with the Confederates and Allies of either, and in the close follow that course which was most likely for his benefit.

And at their return, December 24. Queen Ann was brought to bed of the second Daughter, and Christened Margaret. The Earl of Montross, made Chancellour, with the Lord Hamilton and Earl Huntley were God-fathers, and these two created Marquesses.

And to minde men of Gods providence in their Declinations as well as Creations, we may not forget to historize the Deaths, as we have done the Lives of worthy men; Iohn Lindsey Secretary of State, of a Noble Family, exquisitely learned, held worthy of his Judicature in the Senate, wise and virtuous, he pined away with the grief of the Stone.

David Carnegy of Colluthy, peaceable and sober, of good credit with the King, and his Counsellour, for his excellent knowledg in Civil affairs.

[Page] Thomas Buchanan, sometimes a Schoolmaster, I name him with distinction from that other his Kinsman (whose Life and Death we have heretofore mentioned) this man died Provost of Kirkheneh, learned and prudent, though a strong stickler for the Kirks rights, and died of good age.

David Fergusus of Dunferling, a good Preacher, a sanguine pleasant condition, and thereby the more regarded of the Court and Countrey.

But Robert Rollock, most of all beloved, and the more now lamented, because his conscience could not conceal from his brethren, of what their conscience was so much guilty; and therefore as a dying man, besought them to carry themselves more dutifull to the King, lamenting to be so ill used by most of their Members. His learned Works scattered into Pamphlets, the more pity so dispersed, and not in Volume, preserve him learned to all posterity.

France was persecuted by the Spaniards in Picardy, France craves aid of England against Spain, and comes to a Treaty. who take the strong Town of Amiens, and therefore were sent over out of England four thousand Souldiers to his succour, and so retakes it again. But the fate of War interchangeable to either, with loss to both, inclines them to Peace, by intercession of the Pope, interessing also the Queen, who sends over Secretary Cecil, and Wilks Master of Requests; and the Netherlands send Nassaw and Barnevelt; for all were included: but the States (gaining by Trade, whilest their Neighbours fight) dehorted the Queen under-hand, against any Peace. Much altercation there was by the French to introduce England into the accord; (for Spain now involved with the French, being but quit there, intended revenge on England, and be able to do it:) and so their Delegates meet at Vervin, where the French dispute place with Spain.

The French state their Precedency from the Sentence of Pope Pius quartus; France and Spain dispute precedency, the Spanish deny that, and urge besides a point of civility, that now they were Guests invited into a Town of France, and so the French yielded, out of respect to that and to the Popes Legates: but after much travel therein, the Legate (extraordinary for the Pope) sits at the upper end, the Nuncio (the Popes Lieger) is placed on the right hand; the choice was given to the French, either to have the right hand next the Nuncio, or the left next the Legate: the French accepted the left hand, and the Spaniard was content with the right, though the second man.

Indeed, the King of Spain had delegated his Authority over to the Arch-Duke, whose Ambassadour in truth was here, on purpose to avoid the issue of contention, which rather than to submit, was worse to him than a War: and thus was the Charters of Delegation drawn up onely between them,and make peace. so advantagious to France in the sequel, that he became stiled Henry 4. le grand.

[Page] And the Queen and Estates having offers of Treaty with Spain, she consults thereon, and it became work it self for History; the disputes pro & con: The wise States-men of the Gown were for Peace, Disputes of peace or war with England. Essex for War, Burleigh reacht him Davids Psalms, and had so stretched the opening of the Book, that ten to one he should light on this Verse, Bloud-thirsty men shall not live out half their days. Upon this, there happened contention between the Queen and Essex; and about sending one in chief for the affairs of Ireland; in the presence of some of the Council and Cecil she named William Knowls, the Earls Uncle; He in scorn bid her take Carew, (indeed expecting his own mighty merits must needs be intreated) and in contempt turns his tail to her; she in disdain gave him a box on the ear,Queen Elizabeth strikes Essex. bid him be gone with a vengeance. He in passion, claps his hands on his Hilt, and vows not to put it up, and in chafe gets out of the Court: and being admonished of his duty by the Lord Keeper who was present, he answers very boldly by Letters, and more unadvised and unhandsom, gives them to his Captains to d [...]vulge. They contained thus much.

That a weak Prince rageth like the Tempest. He knows his observance as a Subject,His angry letters. but withall, what to do as an Earl and Lord Marshal, and can distinguish Service and Slavery; It is a Wound that smarts; and it were a sin to serve after such Disgrace. Cannot Princes err? injure Subjects? Is their Power infinite? For my own part, I am rent in pieces with Injuries, and have long enough endured the bitter [...]ess thereof.

This was enough to set out his inside, which the Queen observed, and lodged it for hereafter, having for the present some use of his followers, who indeed egged him forward to his future ruine.

But after this digression, we minde the occasion, [...] and though no peace with Spain, the Queen makes sure with the Netherlands in a new League, and agreements of addition to the former, (See before Anno 1585.) viz. to pay her in all eight hundred thousand pounds sterling, (if the War lasted so long) thirty thousand pound yearly, till they had paid four hundred thousand pounds; but if the Peace should conclude by the Queen and Spaniard, then to pay twenty thousand pounds yearly,King of [...] dies. till they had paid eight hundred thousand pounds, with other covenants. But the death of Philip 2. King of Spain, gave breath to them both, for he left his Netherlands in Dowry with his Daughter Isabel, married at this time to Albert, Cardinal of Austria, who returns his Cap to the Pope, and receives his consecrated Sword, to conquer wherever he comes, and so hasts into Spain.

There was a fellow,One Squire impoysons the Queens saddle. one Squire, taken at sea, and carried Prisoner into Spain, and by extremity of the Inquisition, turns Papist, [Page] and for trial of his new Profession, Walpool a Iesuite teaches him to compound a Poyson, with which, if but anointing the Queens Saddle-pummel, and she touch it, she should be infected; and for this villany he should be sure of salvation. He came now and put his Poyson in practice, which she touched, but took not effect; so did he to the Chairs of Essex, which proved alike. Walpool in Spain wondring at Squires neglect (as he thought) in very vengeance sends over one that accused Squire, who confessed, and was hanged.

These and many other treacheries worrying the Iesuits with no success,Tomas fals [...]accusation of K. James to Q. Elizabeth. scattered some tales that King Iames favoured Papists, and despised the Queen, who had sight of some Letters, (in truth) indited by the villany of his Secretary Elphingston, and the Kings hand counterfeit, and Seal to the same; and seeming to confirm it, they had hired a notorious Villain in England one Tomas, condemned for Theft, and to unburthen his conscience, pretends to reveal a secret, and accuse the King in some generals, but never revealed any, yet was the wretch reprieved; and though her wisdom knew well the malice and cunning contrivance of these Plots, to clear her belief, she sends Bows Ambassadour to the King, and by Queries she examples her affection to him, before any other, and expects no retribution, but by him, the glory of God, and not be wanting to himself.

The King knew no better means to suppress the credit of false rumours,K. James his prudence to suppress false rumours. than by his own pious practice in Religion, by outward frequency in the exercises of Prayer and Preaching; duly performing and executing his Justice and Mercy, with such wisdom, and piety, as made his virtues thereby more transparent to the common view and sense of all men.

He wisely gave way to divers Books, publishing his right of Succession to the Crown of England, with Arguments and Reasons of the benefit and advantage to the people of both Nations; that in pious policie, his intentions would be hereafter to force Ireland to Religion, and to continue War with Spain. He numbers his then princely issue as the defence of State, his power and strength to oppose Enemies, the good affections to him of Christian Princes, and proposes miserable Examples of Usurpers.

Whilest Bows was about his business at Court,Ashfield surprized Prisoner to Barwick. he findes an Englishman (Ashfield) bold enough to bid himself welcom, besides his merit, for his brave Present, some hunting Horses for the Kings Saddle; but in his journey (it seems) over-saucy with the English Warden, or rather suspected as a Spy, to carry Tales to the King: however Bows had direction to teach him the Ambassadours craft, and enticing him by his servants to Lieth, was in his drink coached away to Barwick.

The King takes this indignity, offered, to himself, secures the [Page] Ambassadors lodgings; and se nds to Barwick for release of the Prisoner. The Governour excuses that demand, not to demit him without the Queens pleasure.

And so disputes grew high with the Ambassadour, as injurious to the honor of both Crownes; which he denied, and turn'd the fact upon his men, without his knowledge; but this was Mentiendi facultate, and the King not vouchsafing him any more Audience, he departed much discontent.

Sundry disputes were sawcily maintained,Colvil Recants his treatise against the Kings title. concerning the Kings Title to the Crown of England. Besides the discourses oppugning, Amongst many, Iohn Colvil Minister published his Recantation in print, and stiled, the Palionode of John Colvil, &c. wherein having confuted the contrary reasons, he professed, That Malitiously in time of exile (as you have heard) he had penned the Treatise, which now out of conscience he recants.

Some say, that he was not Author of that book which he appugned, only to get favour of the King he professed the work, that had come forth without a name, and was then accounted a Pithy and perswasive cunning discourse, of that subject.

At this time was published the K. Basilicon Doron, The Kings Basilicon doron, the occasion of it in publick. directed to the Prince, upon this occasion, Sir Iames Semple, servant to the K. and Amanuensis therein, lent the copie to Andrew Melvil Minister; who misliking so much ruth, which touched the Ministers copie-hold in their discipline; tdispersed several transcriptions amongst the Brethren; and thereupon a Libell was framed, and cast in before the Synod of Saint Andrews; with such exceptions, as they pleased to set down. It was asked what censure should be inflicted upon him that had given such instructions to the Prince, and whether he could be well affected to Religion, that had delivered such precepts of Government?

The Kings Commissioners in the Synod (apprehending the Libell to concern his Majesty, whom they knew to be the Author of the book,) inquired for the Presenters. And all pretending ignorance, the Commissioners shut the doors, and purged each one by oath; yet was it prooved the next day to be Iohn Dikes, Minister; who, in fear of the Citation before the Council, fled, and was denounced Rebell. And Hereupon, rumors were hatched, how prejudicial these directions were to the Church. But to satisfie the truth, the Book came abroad, and was carried into England, with admiration of all men, to read the Kings piety and wisdom, Heretofore somewhat doubted, by the deceipt of certain discourses which now were sure to be replied unto, and evermore somewhat of Consequence, for the Kings just title to the Crown of England.

By which, and his continual disputes, and reasoning with learned men of all knowledg, He in truth soon became royally [Page] famed through Christendom, and more effectual with her, whom he was to succeed. Her self grown very studious and retired, and because she excelled in languages, she translates out of French, and Latine, Salust, and Horace, which she writ with her own hand, and extant.

And in this general Assembly of the Church,The new year altered from 25. of March to 18. Ianuary. a politick Ordinance was published; To have the next year begin at the Calends of Ianuary, and from thenceforth for ever. For before that time, the year was reckoned, as in some other Churches, from the 25. of March.

And now, disposing votes, for the Ministry in Parliament, I shall close up the yeer with the pitifull discovery of the State of Bishopricks, and how farr this godly Kirk had incroched upon them; So that,The state of Bishopricks at that time. there rested no more, but to Nominate perons to the Bishopricks, that were voyd. Aberdeen and Arguile had their own Incumbents, at the time, both actuall Preachers.

Saint Andrews and Glascow, were in the hands of the Duke of Lenox.

Murray was possessed by the Lord Spinie.

Orkney, by the Earl of Orkney.

Dunkeld, Birchen and Dumblane, had their own titulars, but were not ordinary Preachers.

Galloway and the Isles, so dilapidated as scarce to be remembred that ever they had been.

Ross, and Cathnes, some provision were left.

And so we return to England. The Queen much perplexed,Irish Rebellion with Tirone. the Irish Rebellion mightily increasing, and that Nation in lamentable condition by Ter-oen (or Tyrone) and others, though but lately broken out, and how to quench that fire, was her and her whole Councils continual care.

And therefore, they consider of present forces, to be sent over, extraordinary, under command of a Generalis s [...]mo, for that expedition. And after some debate, the Earl of Essex was markt out by the Queen, to that purpose, though Secretary Caecil hated him to the death. His wit made him equal, to mate the others greatness, and never left, untill he brought him to the Block, with the weight also of his own wicked desert.

Give me leave to let in the Reader with some reasons why and how Essex and Caecil, whom Authors make Antagonists, had several interests in one design of envy. Queen Elizabeth was ever shy of her Successor; and these two families were equal in power and affection in Court,Essex and Caecils Intelligence with King Iames. enjoying Her present favour, but looking to the future, in the Queens declension. And in several held correspondence with some of the principal in Scotland (if not with the King) which had she known, might have cost their heads.

[Page] Secretary Caecil had the safer conveyance in disposing all publick addre [...]es of State, and was in hazard to have forfeited his honesty, if not his head, but his ready wit served the turn.

The Queen taking ayre upon Greenwich-heath, Caecil. a post came thither to Caecil from Scotland; she hastily commanded the Packet, which he, with much diligence to obey, s [...]ept neer her person, telling her it smelt, and looked il-favouredly, coming out of a filthy Budget, and that it were fit to be ayred. She being averse from ill sents, bid him do so, and so he gained time to sever what he would not have her to see.

The Earls accident of the same Nature,Essex. had more cost and difficulty in the redress.

He entertained a domestick, Master Anthony Bacon, of a quick wit; by whom, the Scotish intelligence was managed; which dangerous secret, he acted for reward. And upon that score, had private invitation, to amend his fortune with Caecil. Of which he makes use, and, as a mercenary man, revealed it to his Master, who knew well enough, it behoved him to out-bid Caecil, and sodainly gave him Essex house; which was disingaged for 2500l, besides another sum before, of 1500l, so in all we may guess it, costly counsel.

About this time, There was a treasonable Assassination,Gowries conspiracie. acted upon the King by Iohn Ruthen Earl of Gowry, and commonly called Gowries conspiracie.

The principal Actors, The Earl and his brother Alexander Ruthen, Andrew Henderson, and Iohn Cranstone.

The conspirators were Robert Logain Laird of Restalrigge, the Laird of Bour, andSee anno 1608. Georg Sprot, the last were discovered afterwards, and Sprot executed eight years after.

And because Gowry had insinuated himself into the faction of the ministery, presuming on their wonted way of countenancing all mutinous designes, These men in malice to their Sovereign, who kept them under with Bitt and Bridle, began to quarrel at the publick declarations herein, till the Conspiracie was examined and witnessed by their worships.

Their but infection hath impoysoned others,Court and ch [...] of King James pa [...] 8 Hist: Gr: Br: Pa: 12. who wilfully and maliciously, have now, very lately spit their venome in print; as if the world had been (more than these half hundred years last past) abused, with a false and feigned story.

We therefore, In perpetuam rei memoriam, have endeavoured the truth, From such information and printed Narratives, as we may with confidence satisfie the most suspicious.

The name Ruthen in Scotland was not notorious, till Anno 1568; when the chief of that familie,Vide ante 1568. amongst other confederates in those divided times of trouble, laboured the imprisoning the Kings Mother,et 1582. Queen Mary. In 1582 his son William, [Page] was created Earl Gowry, in the Kiugs minority; and two years after fel into actual Rebellion at Dundee, for which he suffered at Sterlin, anno 1584.

His eldest son Iohn, not long after, was restored in blood, and had leave to travel beyond seas. I have a Manuscript which saies, that in Padoua amongst other impressa's, in a fencing school, he caused a hand and sword aiming at a Crown, for his device. And the Earl of Arguile (this mans father 1552) told the King, that in a house at Orleans in France (where Gowry had been lodged) he found a prophecie, That he should with too much love, fall into melancholy, have great power and rule, and die by the sword.

And thereafter his return home, he was extraordinary ambitious, proud and haughty. His answer shew'd no less unto Collonal Stuart, a man of high esteem, who humbly desiring, to be reconciled for acting as a minister of justice in apprehending his father; He scornfully answered, Aquila non capit Muscas.

Himself,Earl Gowry retires home. too big in his own thoughts, to be comprehended with Court observance, retired to his familie, accompanied with such of his Creatures, that could descend to observe him, only his brother Alexander was designed to play the Courtier, to take off the suspition, being of the Kings Bedchamber.

And although divers overtures were conceived between the Earl and Robert Logain of Restalrig which took not effect; But at last it was resolved in this manner.

The Earl sends his Brother Alexander from Saint Iohnstons his house,The manner of the conspiracie. to the King at Faulkland, to intice him thither with as much privacie as could be. And overnight the 4. day of August 1600. commands one of his servants,4. of August. Andrew Henderson, to ride with his brother Alexander, and one Andrew Ruthen, to Faulkland to the Court the next morning by 7. a clock. The King putting his foot in the stirrop to hunt, Alexander tels him That he had apprehended one lately come from beyond seas, with much gold coyn, and sundry suspicious letters to Popish Lords; advising his Majesty to receive the mony and letters, and to examine the person, being in safety with his Brother at Saint Iohnstons (but 10. miles) and this to be done speedily and privately; which was concluded at Noon, whilst his train and attendants should be at dinner.

Alexander Immediately commands Henderson to speed to his Brother; finding him in his Chamber,Hendersons Examination and confession. where they had communication, and that the King would be there by Noon, and that the business took well with the King, for he clipt him about the neck; that he was accompanied with a slender Train, the Duke of Lenox, Sir Thomas Erskin, and about a dozen persons. Well saies the Earl, get [Page] on your plate sleeves, for I must take an highland robber.

The King staying longer in his sport of hunting than was expected, the Earl at middle of dinner; Andrew Ruthen came in hast, and signified the King to be nerer at hand; presently after came Alexander and William Bloire, and withdrew themselves to consult, sending Henderson for the Earls Gantlet and steel Bonnet; at the instant the King comes in, is received by the Earl, and retires to dinner.

Alexander bids Henderson to fetch the keys of the Chambers from one William Rynde; and presently after Cranston requires Henderson to come to the Earl; who commanded him to attend his brother Alexander, and to doe what ere he bid him; which was, to be locked up within the round Chamber, and to stay in silence, till his return.

Neer the end of dinner, the King at his fruit, and the Lords and wayters gone to eat, Alexander beggs of his Majesty, in this opportunity to withdraw, and to dispatch the business. And up he leads Him through four or five roomes, locking each dore behind them, til they came into the round Chamber where Henderson stood armed. No sooner entered, but Alexander pulls out Hendersons dagger, held it to the Kings brest, claps on his Bonnet, and with stern countenance faces the King and saies, Now Sir you must know I had a father,Alexander treats with the King. whose blood calls for revenge, & you shall die, minting to the K. heart with the dagger.

The King amazed, deals gently with his fury; excuses himself from the guilt of his death, by his then Infancie; advising him, not to lay violent hands on the sacred person of his Annoynted Soveraign; especially in a cause of his innocencie; pleading the lawes of God and Man; and his merits, by restoring your brother in blood and honors; by breeding your Sister the neerest in the Queens affection, and by his reception of his Bedchamber, withall promising pardon of all that is past. And which wrought so much upon Alexander for the present, that he leaves the King in custody of Henderson, until he returns from his brother; having taken oath of the King not to stir, nor cry out, and so locks them in.

Alexander gone, Henderson trembles,The King takes to Henderson. with reverence of his Soveraign, and craves pardon; the King works upon his passion, and asks him what he was? who answered, a servant of the Earls; and wilt thou kill me? he replyed with an oath, himself would sooner die.

Presently Alexander enters, with a Garter in his hand,Alexander [...] with the King. and saies, Sir, there is no remedy, by God you must dye, and strives to bind him. Nay (saies the King) I was born free and will not be bound, and struggling together, Alexander got the Kings head under his arm, and his hand upon his mouth; which the King bit by the thumb, and dragging him to the window, bade [Page] Henderson open it. The King cried out into a back Court, where the Duke, the Earl of Mar, and others were, in pursute of him who was rumoured to be gone out the back way into the Park.

At the cry of Treason, The King cries Treason. John Ramsey comes up; and known to be the King, they hastened to the Chamber where he dined, but no entrance was found. The while, Iohn Ramsey (formerly the Kings Page, and now Groom of the Bed-chamber) with Sir Thomas Erskin also,and Sir Thomas Erskin follows. sought counter, to get up by the Turn-Pike back-stairs, directed thither by a Boy of the House, who saw Alexander ascend that way, and forcing one Door findes them panting. Ramsey casts off his Hawk from his fist, draws out his Fauchion, and wounds him deadly in the belly,Ramsey wounds Alexander. Henderson slips away. (being bid to strike low, for the King found him armed with a Male.) And the instant, comes in Sir Thomas Erskin, Doctor Herres, and one Wilson, and by them was the body dispatcht, whilest Henderson slipt away.

When they soon suspected by the noise of unlocking Doors, that Gowry himself might assail them, advising the King to withdraw into the Lobby, they cast the Kings Coat upon the dead body.

The Earl enters by his double Keys with seven servants the fore-way,Earl Gowry comes up to the fray. and his Case of Rapiers, his usual Weapon, ready drawn, to whom Erskin earnestly said, (to divert him from his purpose) What do you mean my Lord? The King is killed, and points to his brothers covered body, bleeding on the ground.

At which Gowry stops,Gowry astonished, sinking the points of his weapons; when suddenly Herres assails him with his rusty sword; Ramsey steps in and strikes him to the heart,is killed by Ramsey. not so soon, but that the Earl thrust him into the thigh, assisted by Cranston, who hurt Erskin and Herres in the hand,Others hurt. and they him through his body, who lived onely long enough to be hanged and quartered.

And forthwith came up all the Lords, The Lords and company come in. Gowries Spels of Enchantment. the Court, and Townsmen, After thanks to God for this mercy, they surveyed Gowries body, which did not bleed, untill a Parchment was taken out of his bosom with Characters, and these Letters, which put together made TETRAGRAMMATON; having been told, His Bloud should not spill, whilest he had that Spell. Being thus deceived by the Devil, he thought he should not die, untill he had power and rule, which he had of the King, and so suffered by the Sword.

There remained in Scotland one younger son (two other brothers being fled) of that House,Two other brothers William and Patrick beyond seas. then a childe, and was from that time imprisoned by Act of Parliament, and so continued afterwards in the Tower of London untill this Kings death; and the grace of the late King Charls restored him to liberty, with a small Pension,1652. which kept him like a Gentleman to these times, but now failing, he walks the streets poor, but well experienced [Page] in Chymical Physick, and in other parts of Learning, which he got, whilest he lost his liberty.

Not long after Herres well rewarded dies.

Ramsey hath the honour of Knighthood, with additional bearing of his Coat of Arms,The Kings grace and preferment to all those Rescuers. A Hand holding forth a Dagger, mounted proper, peircing a bloudy Heart, the point crowned Emperial, with this Motto. ‘Haec dextra vindex Principis & Patriae.’ Not without increase of Wealth and Honour, to his Death.

Sir Thomas Erskin afterwards created Earl of Kelly, and by degrees Knight of the Gart [...]r, Captain of the Kings Guard, and Groom of the Stool.

Henderson had a large Pension confirmed by Act of Parliament, and died not long since.

The Commemoration hereof was advisedly se [...]tled by Act of Parliament, The Tha [...]ksgiving day settled by Parliament. the Anniversary Feast-day of the fifth of August, solemnized to Gods glory, during this Kings life; and Narratives in print in Scotland and England of all these circumstances, which I have to produce; as also several Examinations taken at Fawkland this year, viz. Iames Weyms of Bogye, William Rynde, and Andrew Henderson, the very man assigned to murder the King, whose Examination onely I thought good to insert.

Fawkland, 20th August, 1600.

In presence of the Lord Chancellour, Lord Treasurer, Advocate, Hendersons confession of the whole matter. Controuler, Sir George Hewme, and Sir Iames Methold, viz. That the Earl Gowry, at St. Iohnstons, appointed this Deponent Henderson over night to ride with his Brothers, Alexander and Andrew Ruthen to Falkland the next morn, who came all together thither at seven of the clock; Alexander presently spake with the King in private, as he gat on hors-back, and instantly commanded this Deponent to ride with all possible speed to the Earl, whom he found at St. Iohnstons in his chamber at ten of the clock, and told him that the King would be there by noon. The Earl presently with-draws into his Cabinet, demands, How his Majesty took with his Brother? This Deponent said, Very well, for the King clipt him about the shoulder. The Earl asked if there were many with the King, and what special persons? He answered, The usual number, and the Duke of Lenox. And that within an hour after the Earl commanded this Deponent to put on his secret plate-sleeves, saying, He had an High-land man to take.

That about one a clock the Earl being at Dinner, Andrew Ruthen came from Alexander, and whispered to the Earl, and presently after came Alexander, and William Bloir, and took the Earl [Page] from his Dinner, and sent for his Gantlet and Steel-Bonnet, and then the King came in.

That Alexander bids this Deponent, fetch the Keys of the chambers from William Reynd, and so both went up the stairs; but afterwards Thomas Cranston required this Deponent to come to the Earl, who commanded him to go up to Alexander, and immediately the Earl followed, bidding this Deponent do what ere Alexander bade him, who forthwith lockt him within the Round in the Chamber, telling him, he must stay there till he returned; who shortly after came with the King, and opening the Door, both of them entred, and instantly Alexander clapping on his Hat pulled out this Deponents Dagger, and held it to the Kings breast, saying, Remember ye of my Fathers murther; You shall now die for it. And minting to his Higness heart with the Dagger, this Deponent tript the same out of his hand, and believes, that if Alexander had retained the Dagger, so long as one might go six steps, he had killed the King therewith. But wanting the Dagger, the King gave him gentle language, excusing himself of Gowries death. Alexander says, Well, if you keep quiet, nothing shall a [...]l you, if you will do as my Brother will have of you. The King asked, What would you have? He answered, I will bring my Brother. And having taken Oath of the King not to cry out, nor ope the Window till his return, he lockt them both together.

The King asked the Deponent what he was? who answered, A Servant of my Lords. The King said, Will your Lord kill me? The Deponent said, (with an Oath) He shall die first.

Alexander enters, and says, Sir, there is no remedy, by God you must die. And having a loose Garter, strove to binde the Kings, hands, who said, Nay, sall you not, Ise die a free man. And this Deponent pulled the Garter from him. Then Alexander clapt his hand upon the Kings mouth, to stop his crying, and held his head under his arm. But this Deponent pulled his hand from the Kings mouth, and opened the Window, and the King cried out thereat. Whereupon the Kings Servant came running in at the Gate, and the Deponent ran and opened the Turn-Pike head, whereat Iohn Ramsey entred; and this Deponent saw him give Alexander the blow, and then this Deponent gat away.

It is remembred by the Archbishop of St. Andrews in his History,Testimouy of the Arch-biof St. Andrews. pag. 460. that he three days after, meeting Mr. William Cooper (who had been Tutor to Alexander) told him, that not many days before that Action, visiting the Earl at his own house, he found him reading a Book, intituled de conjurationibus adversus Principes; shewing him, That it was a Collection of the Conspiracies made against Princes, which (he said) were foolishly contrived by all of them, and faulty, either in one point or other; for he that goeth about such a business (said he) should not put any man on his counsel.

[Page] But the Ministers refuse to give God thanks for the Kings delivery, excusing themselves, as not being acquainted with the particulars, nor how those things had fallen out. It was answered, That the Kings escape was evident. The Minist [...]rs refuse to give God thanks for the Kings delivery They replied, that nothing ought to be delivered in the Pulpit but that whereof the truth was known, and that all spoken there should be in faith. And so it was done onely by a narrative Relation of Bishop Ross, at the Market Cross, to the singular joy of the people.

And afterwards the King and Councel, with all the Nobili [...]y, solemnized the Deliverance with Thanksgiving and Prayer, with great satisfaction to the multitude, Who (as Domitian said) seldom give credit to the Conspiracy, unless the Prince be slain.

Those Ministers that refused, wer [...] silenced from Preaching,They are silenced. under pain of Death▪ and well they deserved it; untill afterwards, that they declared, They were resolved of the truth of Gowries Conspiracy, and submit for their former fault. And so were ordered to publish the same in sundry Churches. One of them had his reservation, He would reverence the Report; but was not perswaded of the truth. And therefore was banished into France.

The Bodies of the two Brothers were sentenced by the Parliament, hanged on a Gibbet, dismembred, and their Heads set upon the Prison-house; and then ordained the fifth day of August in all Ages to come should be solemnly kept for Publick Prayers.

The assasination of Princes, the more common, the more close, and as they were mightily performed on the persons of his Pred [...]cessors in Scotland, so not seldom practised on Queen Elizabeth in England, whilest she was increasing in years, but being declined through age, near her end, the le [...]uit Catholick considered it to be lost labour upon her, then her death gave being to another Ph [...]nix, as the onely Defender of the Faith.

Upon him therefore they intend the like, which being known unto Ferdinando Grand Duke of Tus [...]any, The King forewarned out of Italy of Poyson. out of the singular fame of the Kings princely virtues, he sent to him an Express, an English Gentleman Sir Henry Wotton, a Traveller in Italy, with a Dispatch [...]nd Packet of Letters intercepted by the Duke, in them, a Design of certain men sent secretly to Scotland, to impoyson the King.

Wotton was well rewarded, and returned with many princely expressions of the Dukes, timely intimation, and the Kings infinite obligation, and bad him say to the Duke, as from the King.

That to him, it was less considerable to die than to fear.

And whilest he was here 26. of February 1600. was born the [Page] Kings third son (the second son Robert died young) and Christened Charls, at Dunferling, a sickly weak Infant, but recovered beyond expectation, and proved all his life exceeding healthy, and by his constitution might have lived a great age,Prince Charls born. had not untimely accidents bereaved us of him.

To give end to this year,The Life and Death of John Cragg Minister. we recommend to memory the Life and Death of Mr. Iohn Cragg, he had been Minister to the King, (they will not stile themselves Chaplains) of good fame and scale of learning; without faction, (which I note, as a rarity in them) and therefore his reputation. His Parent kill'd at Flouden-field; his means no more than poverty affords; put him into extremities, to work out a livelihood.

To England first, an ordinary Pedagogue, to a private family; then he returns, and necessity enforcing, he becomes a Dominican, and i [...]prisoned for four Tenents of Heresie, got out, and went back to England.

Then to France, and thence to Rome, where Cardinal Pool prefers him to instruct Novices of the Cloister in Bononia; and imployed their Envoy in affairs through Italy, and in Commission to the Isle Chios in the Ionick sea, to redress disorders there.

Afterwards returning, he became Rector, and so access to the Library of the Inquisition, where he happened on Calvins Institutions, and by them, and the Instructions (his own Tale) of an old man in the Monastery, he was confirm'd a Proselyte to his Discipline, and not able to keep counsel, was carried to Rome, and by the Inquisition condemned to be burnt an Heretick.

That night Pope Paul the fourth dies, the people hating his person, in huge tumult, tumbled down his Statue of Marble, dragging it about the streets for three days, and then drowned it in Tiber, and increasing villany, and power, discharged the Prisons, and amongst the rest, Cragg gat loose, first into the Suburbs, and there falling into mean company, was known by a Banditto, whom he had relieved at Bononia, who gratefully assisted him with money for the journey thither, where finding friends to fail, he took his course to Millan.

Ere he got there, an accident befell him; (his own relation, and a Bishops record) for declining the common Road in fear of discovery, he fell into a Forrest, weary, out of the way, and want of food, brought him to rest under a Birch, and near a Brook; when in much amuze what to do, a Dog comes fawning with a Purse of money in his mouth, which he lays down in his lap, and whining, (as to invite him to rise and follow him) brought him not far off, to a poor Village, and into company, that conducted him to Vienna in Austria.

There he preaches before Maximilian the second; the fame of the man, and his good manners to boot, brought him a Preferment, [Page] when by Letters from Pope Pius the third he was demanded to Rome, as a condemned Heretick, but was dimitted to shift for himself, under conduct, from the P [...]pes reach.

Through Germany he journeys homewards to England, where he was informed of the Scots Reformation, and so comes home an effectual Convert; and instantly was made a Minister. Disuse of his native speech (four and twenty years) made him trip with his tongue; but being understood by the learned, in his Latine, and not long after speaking Scotch, he steps into the Ministery at Holyrood-house, and so in several years to seven sundry places; he came at last to serve the King his Houshold Chaplain; full of age, even eighty eight; he ended his days the last of December, (for so of late they end their year.)

We left the Earl of Essex designed against the Rebells of Ireland, Es [...]ex his Treason, where soon he learned to practice Treason at home. His story is thus.

This Earl was eldest son to Walter Devere [...]x (of a N [...]rman family) Viscount Hereford and Bouchier, His descent. Lord Ferrers of Chartley, and by Queen Elizabeth created Earl of Essex and Ewe, Anno 1572. and Knight of the Garter; and was sent into Ireland, Lord Marshall, against the Rebells; and as if but sent of an Errand, he presently falls sick and dies at Dublin, 1576. His body brought over and entombed at Carmarthen in Wales.

This Robert succeeded his fathers honour,He [...]r to his Father. and was looked upon in Court by all with pity, through the sacrifice of his father, but by the Queen with more affection, whom she advanced (his fortunes low) with many gifts of grace and bounty. At his Arraignment, accounted by the Lord Treasurer Buckhurst, to be twenty thousand pounds in pure gift, besides the fees of his Offices, and the dispose of the Treasure of the Army.

His entrance into Court was let in by the Earl of Leicester his supporter,His entrance into Court by the Earl of Leicester. though he never neither lived nor died by his discipline, who though he deserved it, was yet a better Master of Art, than to die by the Ax.

He called him to Court from his House near Carmarthen, settled there to his book, in contemplation belike of his fathers fate, who had spent all, and died when fortune turned him up Trump. Leicester did this upon design, not by affection, (the honest mans principle) for having let in Sir Walter Ralegh a little before, he soon neglected his Patron, and set up for himself. Essex came in to allay him.

And Anno 1585.His great [...] ferments. receives Knighthood, in 1588. the Garter, in 89. command in chief in an Exp [...]dition into Portugal, which was his forwardest piece of service. In 95. sworn Counselour of State. The next year sent with a Navy to the Spanish Island Cadiz, his most fortunate; and therefore presently after made [Page] Lord Marshall of England. In 97. he commanded in another Fleet to the Islands Tercera, which was his best; and this last into Ireland, his worst, being the Sepulcher of his Father (as we have said) and the Gulf of this Lords fortune.

So that in twelve years he had no rest from additions of Honours or profit, which he supposed his own Metall, but indeed it was the Queens Mint.

His Contemporaries who stood in competition with him,His contemporaries Sir Ch. Blunt and Gener [...]l Norris. were Sir Charls Blunt, after Earl of Devonshire, who succeeded him in Ireland, and General, Norris, both his near Friends, and yet whom he envied, the last to his ruine.

But after the destruction of Norris, he takes upon him the Expedition into Ireland, the place of exercise for the best of the Militia; and who durst oppose him? Though Blunt stood in favour, whom she foretold, should discharge the cares of Ireland, as he did, though after her death, in this Kings time, where we shall remember him hereafter.

This Blunt was a gallant Gentleman, and learned, with whom Essex must needs challenge the Duel, for wearing of the Queens favour, for his success in a Tilting, and ran him also through the arm.

But Essex got the Imployment from all,Essex goes into Ireland, and over he goes Deputy of Ireland, and General of all the Forces there, with Commission, strickt enough to imbound his popularity with the Souldiery, and his own family, which followed him in Troops; indeed the flickering of his friends (like so many Vice-kings) foretold his Funeral. (That Town is easily undermined, whose foundation is hollow.) Besides, he left not a Friend behinde him, being fain to disperse his own Apology, for some airy objections, which it seems he durst not leave unsatisfied, having never a Friend to do it for him; either of them a weak way to manage a mans fame, and does but multiply the discourse, which a wise man should shun.

And being landed there 1599.and lands at Dublin. not long after he received the Sword as Deputy and General; He declines his intended Northern journey, and engaged a fruitless Expedition into Munster, not so counseled there, nor commanded here, nor so much as advertised home, from him.

By which tedious Marches, his Army harazed and tired out, four Mone [...]hs of Summer spent, three parts of the Forces wasted, he plots a Peace with the Arch Rebell Tyrone.

He imploys one Lee, His M [...]ssengers & Tr [...]ason [...] with Tyrone. a man familiar with Tyrone, and one that (immediatly upon Essex his Rebellion after at London) attempted violence on the Queen, confessed his Design, for which he was hanged.

Blunt Marshall of the Army had order to licence Lee to treat with Tyrone at pleasure, as also Lee's Messenger, one Knowd, who [Page] brings word from Tyrone, That if Essex would follow Tyrones plot, he would make the Earl the best man of England, desiring conference with Essex herein, and Tyrones eldest son offered for Pledge.

This Message was delivered by Knowd, to Lee, and by him to Essex. And though my Lord was charged herewith afterwards, by my Lord Keeper in England, his Lordship flatly denied it, till all their confessions condemned him, and pretended their justification by general pardon from Essex in Ireland for all Treasons.

And accordingly, (to shadow the odious overture, and to agree with so arch a Rebell,) under colour of a Treaty, he designes an Interview with Tyrone alone; no third person admitted, and a guard of Horse kept all men off from hearing.

Considering the former Message by Knowd, what construction can this secrecie produce, but great surmize of the height of Treason? and yet (though Essex was not arraigned for his Irish actions, his latter in London sufficient,) let me relate what is testified in pursuance of this, in the designes of Essex.

On Tyrones part it fell out,Warrens confession. That the very day that Essex returned to the Queen, Tyrone told Sir William Warren at Armagh, That within two or three Moneths he should see the greatest and strangest alteration that could be imagined, and that himself hoped to have a large share in England. And unto Bremingham he said, That he had promised ere long, to shew his face in England, little to the publick good thereof.

Thomas Wood Confesses,Woods confession That the Lord Fitz [...]orris in Munster, about the same time told him, That Tyrone had written to the Earl of Desmond (so called) that the contract was, That Essex should be King of England, Tyrone Viceroy of Ireland, and should assist him in England with 8000 Souldiers.

With which agrees, the answer of Tyrone, to Mac Roories letter, That Essex had agreed to side with Tyrone, and so be ayded by them all towards the Conquest of England.

The general opinion and discourse of the Rebells, That Essex was theirs, and they his, and that he would never relinquish the sword of Ireland, till he was Master of that in England.

Tyrone after the parley, grew proud and secure, into strange progresses, visitations, homages of his confederates, as of a new spirit and courage.

Essex, presently thereupon, having retired thoughts, became melancholly, as of doubtfull ambition, and secretly imparts himself only to the Earl of Southampton and Sir Christopher Blunt. Resolves how to return into England.

Resolving to go into England, with 2. or 3000. choice of [Page] the Army to make good his landing at Milford Haven; so gather power, march to London, and make his own conditions.

They diswade him, from the hazard, and odiousness of the design, but rather, to draw out 200. of the most resolute, to make sure of the Court, and so to follow the effect.

And accordingly over he comes; his Company in a muze of his intents, he publisht his pretext to them, by the efficacie of his presence, to draw the Queen to confirm his Articles with Tyrone.

But in great choler as to dispute,And lands with a 100. Gentlemen. September. or Revenge, and without leave from England, He leaves his command to a Lieutenant, and lands with 100. Gentlemen his best confidents, hastens to Court ere it was known to any, but to his dear Uncle Sir William Knowles, Controuler of the Queens Houshold, to whom he writes.

Dear Uncle, Receiving your last at my entring on shipboard, I return you this accompt at my landing, being resolved with all speed (and our silence) to appear in the face of my Enemies, not trusting a farr off to my own Innocencie, or to the Queens favour, with whom they have got so much power.

At sight of him with amaze,The Queen offended. the Queen swore, Gods death my Lord, what do you here, your presence hatefull, without Tyrones head? But he, falling more to a dispute, than any excuse, she, in disdain to be taught, but what she pleased to do, bid him he gone, his boots stunck.

So was he,He is committed, commanded to his Chamber at Court, for some daies; thence to the Lord Keeper, til neer Easter after; then to his own house, under custody of Sir Richard Barckley, til the end of Trinity Term; so by degrees of restraint, to win him to repentance, the Queen said, that he was young enough to amend. and make amends for all.

Yet to repress seditious libels, dispersed in his Justification,And censured. and to observe a form of justice, ere she gave him libertie, There were associates unto her privy Council, some chosen persons of the Nobility, and judges of the Law, to examine his breaking of his instructions in Ireland, his treating with Tyrone, and leaving his Government, coming over without leave, nay expresly, contrary to his command under her hand & signet.

With limitation, not to be charged with disloyalty, nor to be questioned publickly in Starr Chamber, which upon his most penitent letter he desired to be spared, and to be heard at the Lord Keepers house.

The sentence was then no more, than suspension from some of his Places; for he called God to witness, He made an utter divorce with the world, and desired favour, only for a preparative for his Nunc Dimittis, the tears of his heart having quenched in [Page] him, all humors of ambition.

Upon which, in few daies his Keeper Barckly was taken from him, with this admonition, That he was not altogether discharged, though left to the guard of his own discretion.

He had taken into his service as chief Secretary in Ireland and long before,Consults of Treason with Cuff his Secretary. one Henry Cuff; base by birth, a great Scholar, of a turbulent and mutinous spirit. This fellow, a Moneth after his Lords liberty, practised with Sir Henry Nevil lately Lieger Ambassadour with the French King, and now newly come from Bullen, Insinuating as a secret, That the breach of the treaty of Bullen, was like to light upon him.

By Cuff it was first concluded, that ancient principle of Conspiracie, To prepare many, and trust but to few; and after the manner of Mines to make ready the powder, place it firm, and then give fire in the instant.

The first of Nobility was Wriothsly Earl of Southampton, Blunt and Davis confession. and some others of quality, and with Profane policie to serve their turns with both factions, Papist and Puritan; Essex, his outside to these professing Hypocriticall zeal and frequent Sermons; To the other, as to Blunt and Davis, his inmost secrecies for Tolleration of Religion. And thus he spent Michael [...]as Term.

Towards Christmass there passed a watch-word amongst his associates, That he intended to stand upon his guard; a double sence, as of circumspection, or force. But in truth, not to be cooped up, with restraint.

The time of execution, was Hilary Term, when by invitation, or business,Blunts confession. the Town would fill with his friends. But in Candlemass Term, they fell to consult at Drury House, where Sir Charls Davers lodged; a man obliged unto him, for his pardon about the Murther of one Long. Sir Ferdinando Gorges, Governour of Plymouth, sent for by his letter, not to fail before the second of February. Sir Iohn Davis, Surveyor of the Ordinance, his former servant; And Iohn Littleton, a man of wit and valour.

Their consultation rest upon three parts

The perusal of a List of confederates.

Their plot

How to act.

Distribution of each mans action.

The List was 106. Noblemen, Knights and Gentlemen, of Essex own hand writing.

The action, was in two Articles,

Possessing the Tower,

Surprizing the Q. & Court.

In which was deliberated, what course to hold with the City [Page] towards effecting the surprize, or after.

The Tower would give reputation and security to the Action, by means of Davis; For the Tower but most of the rest were jealous, that whilst they built upon two foundations, one must fail, and distract the other; therefore the more certain, To surprize the Queen, the rest would follow.

The manner thus;For the Court Certain select persons well known at Court, for access, should distribute themselves into the Present, Guard-Chamber, Hall, and utter Court and Gate. And in each of these places, one principal person, to guide the assistants.

Their distribution; Sir Iohn Davers, to the Presence and Guard-Chamber, to seize the Halberds of the Guard; Davis to the Hall; Blunt to the Gate. These in readiness; by a signall, Essex should remove from his house, and well attended, or to meet him, should with correspondence of the setters and some tumult and confusion, effect their design.

Thus the plot-form; the second act to their Tragedy, that Essex should prostrate him self at the Queens feet, desire removall of evil Counselors, who possessed her Majesty and State; Then, to summon a Parliament, alter Government, and confirm conditions to themselves.

In this consult,And for the City Essex inclined most for possessing London, as a surer ground to that of the Court also. Being wedded to his false overweening opinion, of the people and Citizens, and their number. Suspecting belike the instinct loyalty of many of his Train, when the fury should be over, and he perhaps left in the lurch, with the fewest of his friends. The true Nature of usurping Rebells, to [...]rust more to the main of Multitude, than of qualitie; especially Essex, who had gotten (I know not how, nor by what merit) the specious Mark of a Patriot; proper to infuse, and mint jealousies, into the heads of the more unworthy, and less prudent, and these he could easily stirr up by Emissaries, who lye at watch to bo utefeux it, and inflame mens minds, to disperse abroad unshrowded sparks of discord, and that way to convert a Kingdom into a flame.

But this Counsel was afterwards refined by Essex, Nevils confessions Cuffe, and Blunt: To assemble a Troop to come sodainly from the Mews in scattered Numbers, and unite in a moment at the Court Gate.

And as good Common-wealths men, lest their new contrivements should want Ministers, they would supply in a readiness of their own for Counselors, and Servants to the Queen, in place of such evil ones (the beaten path of Traytors) as they thought fit to remove; which should be their plausible pretext to their own practices, and a general ground, to the common people.

[Page] The day drawing nigh (but not assigned, being left to my Lord) the Curse of the Psalmist interposed, like the untimely fruit of the woman, brought forth before it came to perfection.

For many that knew of the plot, diligent, with too much resort at Essex house, brought forth mutterings of somewhat, which states soon discover. The afternoon 7.The day of Preparation February [...]. February before the next day of Rebellion, was sent to Essex house Secretary Herbert, to summon him before the Council, sitting at Salisbury Court, at the Lord Treasurer Buckhursts, which he excused not to do, under colour of being ill.

And suspecting the discovery of his Trains, and doubting delays, resolved upon his enterprize the next day, Sunday. But then, upon advertizement of doubling the Court Guards,He is sent for to the Council. and allarum there, he determined on his former conceipt, of being the peoples darling, and the Minion of London, upon confidence of Sir Thomas Smith the City Sheriff. Giving out that Evening, that he was sent for to Counsel, to be betrayde by an Ambuscado of Musketeers, upon the water, by the devise of the Lord Cobham and Sir Walter Ralegh, to murther him by the way.

This mean design, the best he had, took fire like a squib; the Messages and warning, to his chief confidents all that night, and next morning. And his servant Temple took up his Tale and told it to the City. And to colour it the more, watch and ward was up all night, to open his gates to all comers in, so that the morning hastens Mannors Earl of Rutland, Southampton, Lord Sands, Sir Henry Parker (called Lord Mounteagle,) with some Number of Knights and Gentlemen, and being Sunday, it gave occasion to others, to come to his Sermon, whom he carressed with his Cap in his hand,Earl Rutlands confesion. telling them his former tale.

But to his more confidents, That he was sure of the City, and that strength, which the Queen could not oppose, nor his Enemies withstand his revenge.

Alwaies, with this caution, to his Gate-Keepers, to suffer none to return out, to tel News.

Sunday at 10. a clock the Queen had intelligence, and yet was willing to cast water on this fire, ere it should flame to a Rebellion; her authority, before her force;The day of rebellion. she sent the Lord Keeper, Earl of Worcester, the Controuler of hir Houshold, the Lord chief Justice,Council sent to Essex house. who finding the Gates shut, after some stay, were let in by the wicket, but all their servants kept out, except the bearer of the Seal, the Court full of Company with Essex and his Lords, to whom the Lord Keeper said, That the Queen sent them to understand the reason of their Assembly, that if they had cause of griefs against any persons whatsoever, they should have hearing and justice.

[Page] Essex told them aloud, That his life was sought, to be murthered in his bed, and had been perfidiously dealt withall.

The Chief Justice answered, If any such matter were attempted or intended,Essex pretences. it were fit for him to declare it, and to be assured of their faithfull relation, and so He should not fail of her Majesties Princely Indifferency, and Iustice.

Southampton objected,And Southhamptons. the assault upon him by the Lord Gray, to which the Chief Justice said, that justice had been done, and the party in prison.

The Keeper required Essex to impart his griefs, if not openly, yet privately, and promised satisfaction.

Upon this, The multitude clamour. arose a high clamour of the multitude, Away my Lord, they abuse you, they destroy you, they undoe you, you lose time.

The Lord Keeper putting on his hat, commanded them all upon their Allegiance to lay down their weapons and depart, When Essex and all the rest clapt on their Caps, and going into the House, the Lords followed him, as to have private conference, and fearing the Multitude, who [...]ryed out kill them, shop them up, keep them pledges, [...]st the great seal out at window.

And accordingly,Secures the Counsel, and goes into the City. he gave them in custody, principally to Sir Iohn Davis, and one Owen Salisbury, a seditious notorious robber; guarding them with Muskets, fired, and cockt; and left the charge of his house to Sir Gilly Merrick, bidding the Lord Keeper to have patience whilst he would take order with the Maior and Sheriffs for the City, and be with them again within an hour.

So goes forth with his Number 200. men, entered Ludgate, and with a fearfull, timorous, discomposed tale repeated, That he should have been murthered; and so passing through Cheap-side unto Sir Thomas Smiths house in Philpot-lane who was at Church; where he shifts into a dry shirt; the passion of fear firing him into a hot sweat. The people flocking and gazing as he went.Earl Rutlands confe ssion To whom he said; they did him hurt and no good, without weapons.

The Queen and Court, somewhat frighted, commanded the City to be in readiness, but to keep within doors.

The Lord Burghley with Garter King of Heraulds proclamed him Traytor in the principal parts of London, Proclamed Traytor which was done with expedition and resolution, though with loss of some of his Train, and hurt of many.

Clifford Earl of Cumberland, Earl Rutlands Confession. with Sir Thomas Gerrard Knight Marshal, rode up and down proclaming them Traytors. And so, divers withdrawing, he altered his former pretext, and said, That Kingdom should have been sold to the Infanta.

Then making stay in Grace-street, Forces oppose [...]ssex. and dismaid at the tidings that [Page] forces were aproaching under conduct of the Lord Admiral Lieutenant for the Queen, resolved to return by water, and make good his own person by the pledges of the Lords, which a good fellow over-hearing, and not well assured of his part there, being as deep in the design as death, hasted before by land, told Davis and Merick, that by any means they should release the Council, and so got his own pardon, and this was Sir Ferdinando Gorges.

But Essex ignorant as yet,Encounter at the west end of Pauls, some slain. goes on by land to Ludgate, there at the West end of Pauls, he was resisted by the forces of the Bishop of London, commanded by Sir Iohn Luson. At which Incounter Blunt was wounded, young Tracie slain, and others, on his part. Wyat slain, and some hurt on the Queens part.

But upon this small repulse, He slips from his Train, turns down to Queen-hith, and by a pair of oares, was received into his Water-gate at home, which he fortified and baricadoed.He returns home by water and is besieged by land and by water. And as instantly was he besieged on land, by the Earls of Cumberland, and Lincoln, Lords Thomas Howard, Gray, Burghly, and Compton Sir Walter Ralegh, and Sir Thomas Gerrard.

And by water; by the Lord Admiral, the Lord Essingham, Lord Cobham, Sir Iohn Stanhop, Sir Robert Sidney, and Master Foulk Gervil, and this way, forcing the walls, wonne the Garden; And being offered parly, and time to remove his Countess and Sister Rich, with other Gentlewomen, before they would storm the Hourse.

But Essex, with his Lords upon the Leads, would not capitulate,Submits the same day. but intreat.

That they might be used Civilly.

To have an honourable Tryal.

To have Ashton his Preacher with him in Prison.

And so by ten a clock at night, they submitted themselves Prisoners to the Tower.

This monstrous Treason, of this mighty man, thus weakly managed, was began and ended in twelve hours, and the next day as calm, as if no Motion or Billowes had been before.

For which he,Essex executed. and Southampton, eleven dayes after were arraigned and condmned, this one had his reprieve, but Essex the reward of his merits,Southampton reprieved and executed the 25. February, upon the Inner Hill in the Tower.

Several dayes before Sir Charls Blunt suffered by the Axe, and Cuff by the halter.

Essex before his, and at several times (so not surprized) betrayed most of his confederates, and discovered Sir Henry Nevil, late Ambassadour in France, as privie to all his conspiracies, of whom til then there had been no suspition, which was construed in him an Act more of temerity and hope of pardon, [Page] than in Grace, and good Conscience of a Repentant Offender.

And this being his Tragedy. It is no wonder though our Adversarie Authors, the one, The History of Great Britain, the other, The Court and Character of King James, should so slightly pass over his Treasons.

With them we shall have some dispute, as we meet them Contemporaries in our farther proceedings, in the second Part. Let me add the Opinion, that a writer had of Essex, and published in these verses.

Quod Regina, scelus; scelus est; quod Virgo petatur;

quod pia Virgo, scelus; quod tibi grata scelus;

Cum Virgo, Regina, Pia, et tibi grata, petatur,

Proh scelus! et superat quod scelus omne scelus.

It's Treason, that a Queen should ruin'd be;

That a Maid, ill;

That she was Good, yet worse; that good to Thee,

More wicked still:

But when a Queen, a Maid, Good, and thy Friend,

Thou wouldst dispatch,

The Treason, that thy black heart doth intend,

Dares Hell to match.

England thus long sick of the disease of Irish affairs,Blunt sent Deputy of Ireland the expence whereof had brought the State into a Consumption, which put the Queen to seek money of her Subjects; besides her way of sweetning them with good words. Tyrone grew so Insolent, asto act Soveraignty, where ere he came, disposing Honours, Estates, Privileges, Freedomes. And therefore Charles Blunt Lord Montjoy, is sent over Deputy; and though others as fit as the former, the Queen (who seldome chose amiss) pickt out him to command, for his readiness to obey; a fault in Essex, proud, and stubborn, uncounsellable, and unconstant.

The Rebells put him to it, salute him by Allarm, in the very Suburbs of Dublin, which the Deputy with his selected Veteranes meant to requite soon after, in a Massy-body, and fight him,Tyrone had friends in the English Court which the Enemy sought for, and had been worsted, of which some underhand Counsellors at the Queen elbow warned him to prevent, by turning a to-side. But with several light Brigadoes he was so hotly pursued, asput him to his holes again.

Sir Warham Saint-Leger, meets Mac-guire, (a graceless wretch) and with their Launces full Career run each other thorough, and dye.

Romes friendship to those Rebells, The Pop [...]s pardon to the R [...]bells. much encouraged by his [Page] Indulgence, (the aboundance of the Churches Treasure) was pleased to spare them pardon of their sinnes,Anno 1601. for the good service of shedding so much blood of their S [...]veraigns Subjects; and for fighting in the faith of his beloved sonne Hugh Prince, O-neal, and Earl of Ter-Oen, Captain General of the Catholick forces in Ireland; Whom His Holiness accompanies with all his spirritual graces, and those that follow him, or favour him, (by pains, counsel, arms, provision, or any other means) a plenary pardon of all their sinnes; the very same pardon (sayes he) that was wont to be granted to those that warre against the Turk, or for the Holy land.

However the deputy sends Docwray into Ulster Garrisons; himself with 4000. foot, and 300. horse, put the Enemie to his lurking, & with new supplies in Angust out of England, he breaks through many difficulties, into Ulster: Erects Mont-Norris fort in memory of that gallant Iohn Lord Norris, under whom he first exercised arms. Docwray likewise, being assaulted by Ter-oen with treacherie, perjurie, and cunning deceit, and wounded; yet gets out of all dangers, and takes Dunalong, a lesser Castle. On the other side the Deputy in winter, forces several Rebells to Obedience; passes victoriously (in compass,) so farr as Ulster in his first years Regency.

George Carew no less fortunate in Munster; The Southern parts,George Carews service burthened by the Tit [...]lar Earl Desmond (of Ter-Oens making) he surprizes; but was again rescued; Takes seven Castles; drives him out of that province; reduces many Rebells to obedience, quiets the County, and comes home at Christmass; And this was done there.

In England they consult for peace with Spain; being invited by the Arch-Duke Albert, Spanish designes. lately returned to Bruxell with his Bride the Infanta. And inclusive, he knew the better how to condition with the Dutch, to save charges of his warre there, convey home safe his Indies Fleets, & so at last grow infinite rich.

By which, the English would neglect their navylodg in peace; lazy and wealthy; discontinue warre, the easier hereafter to be soon invaded.

The Queen old,Treat with English commissioners at Bulloine. and weary of warre, very willing to make peace within her self, and outward, with all the world, leaves the motion to the Fr [...]nch Kings managing, for time and place of meeting; He appoints May, the time; and Boulen the place.

For the Queen, came Henry Nevil her Lieger there, her new Secretary Herbert; Beal, Secretary in the North; and Edmonds her French Secretary.

For Spain, came Don Balthasar domine de Zuniga Fonseca (the prolixity of whose Name, strecht out like a Cable (sayes little Nevil) is longer than I am) his Lieger in the low Countries; Ferdinando Corel a Counciller of Castile. And for Albert, came Ricardot, and Verskenie. [Page] And must not these men quarrel for Precedencie, as before Anno 1598. at Vervin [...] They did so now; and did nothing else, but quarrel the peace. By which means, they were the better known,Dispute precedencie and titles. for the arrand of the English; which, was first, to stand upon punctilios of place; but not, altogether, before profit: or else, by ca [...]ting lotts. Then, not to be cousened into any kindness for the Low-Countries traffick, Nor in the trade to the Indies; but to be free, as in 1591. general freedom to all places of Charles the fifth. But then, if Spain hath the place, let him lose the advantage, and propound first; He inviting the Treaty.

Copies of their Delegation being given to each other, they now differ about Title; Most Illustrious, she gave to the ArchDuke, but he clames, to be Most Puissant, as descended from sacred Emperours, and he son in Law, and Brother to the King of Spain.

The English Answer; Kings, have no more difference from an Arch-Duke; And Arch-Duke Philip, father to Charles the fifth, had no more from Henry the eighth. But then (say they) those times afforded no more unto Henry himself.

The English found fault with them. The very Form of the Delegat [...]on to be wanting; and ob [...]curely Intermixing other Commissar [...]es; an [...] made up, only, with a Privy Signet; when theirs was, with the Broad Seal of England. Nor does their King ratifie what ere shall be concluded. They Answer to all. Par trattar y hazar trattar, in Spanish, comprehends all formall subdelegation. That, in Spain, no such distinction of seals, Private and Broad. This, being yo, el Rey, the Kings own hand in presence of his Secretary; with the publick seal, And by, Estar y passar, y [...]stare y passare, all warrants fil'd.

Then they meet,Priority disputed. (as yet but by papers) the English demand priority, as if Le premier demandeur estoit le vancuer. A Challenge (say they) never presumed upon before, nor equality yielded. Little Edmonds was angry, who had prepared Richardot with the Queens Priority; That the presence of an Ambassador Nevil, was to be preferred before a Delegate Title.

They reply, for England to be but equall, submits Spain as inferiour to France, England alwaies yielding to France. And such a doe it came unto, that Edmonds comes over, and [...]ath Item not to stand upon Place so he should get the Profit in particular demands; hard enough to be allowed.

In the mean time the Spaniard complains; that succour and subsidy was sent to the States; and ships, ready for the Indies. They were answered, it was in ballance with their assistance to the Rebells in Ireland. And so far they were from Submission to Priority, or to admit equality, as to break off the Treaty.

And so at leasure let us discuss Priority for England. [Page] Among the Temporal powers The first place was to France, the second to England, the last to Castile; and the Book of Ceremonies at Rome saies so, as a Canon, at three general Councils, Pisa, Constance, and Basil, And defended for England it was in Example. The title Castil [...], which the Spaniard most boasts of, is but a late Monarchy to England; having neither Earls nor Kings before the year 1017. and those Kings not Anointed. That England is the third; Intituled Most illustrious, and Spain the fourth. Pope Iulius the second gave it to Henry the seventh before Ferdinand of Castile. The Queens ancient years and Reign (an argument they urged at Bazil against Henry the sixth) and all this original, exceeds mans memory.

Whilst these treat for peace, The Dutch soring high, imped with English feathers bethink how to fall upon the Spaniard. Battel of Newport in Flanders. It was, when their Enemy Arch-Duke Albert was weak in forces, and those in Mutiny. Hasty intelligence did this good service to Prince Maurice, who finding them in this disorder, resolved to fall upon him in Flanders; And because the English had the brunt of the Battel, and Sir Francis Vere the honour of that day, we may take boldness to add it in memory, with matters of our own Historie. Our fate with those people, evermore to be left out of the fame, though we fought for their freedom; and is called the Battel of Newport.

The Princes Army lands at Philipine, upon the River Scheld, 12000. foot, and 3000. horse in 3. Tercias; Commanded by Count Ernest of Nassaw, Prince Ma [...] rice his forces. Count Solms, and Sir Francis Vere, taking their daily turns by change, of Avant-guard, Battel, and Rere.

The Van of Horse consisted of ten Cornets and led by Count Lewis (Brother to Ernest) being Lieutenant-General. And to them were adjoyned Prince Maurices guard, and the Regiments of Sir Francis Vere and Sir Horace Vere, accounted 1600. English. As also the Frizons being seventeen Companies. In all, of the Avant fourty foot Companies, which Sir Francis Vere commanded.

The Battel was Numbred seven Cornets of Horse; To whom were joyned nine foot Companies of Walloons, and four Swisse for the first division. With two other divisions of French; the first of three Companies, the second of twelve. In the midst was Prince Maurice himself, with his Brother Prince Henry, and divers Noblemen, strangers, and voluntiers; so that the Battel had seven Troops, and 25. Comapnies.

The Rere consisted of three Cornets and thirteen colours, in the first division. And in the second eight Companies. And in the third three Troops and twenty six Comapnies.

[Page]The Arch-Dukes army had 25. hundred horse, and 15000. foot,Anno 1601. divided also as the other, into three Brigades.

Before the Armies should meet the Dutch conclude the siege of Newport; (the States taking leave and go to Ostend,)The Arch-Dukes forces. and got to the Downs by the Sea-side & so to Newport; where in three daies they had taken Fort Albert; encamped and quartered, raising a stone bridge over the Haven, for the Carriages to pass.

The Arch-Duke hastens his Marches, & came neer the Fort Albert with some horse and foot, which the Prince supposes but a Bravado, and meant to retire.

Sir Francis Vere was of opinion that it was the gross body; and therefore advised to meet them, before their forts should fall into their hands; And whilst these disputes; The Spaniards Cannon was come, and the Fort yielded to him; and as in a trice, had seized the Bridges & was entered on the Downs. But by the way, met with some forces sent by the Prince, to hinder his free passage, who were encountered, fought bravely, though against a puissant army, till they were too weak and fled, the fate falling upon the Scotish forces about 800. eleven Captains, besides other Officers. The hasty News gave heart to the Arch-Duke, to write to Burges that he had vanquished the Princes Van, and ingaged his whole Army, which made them Triumph, and the States at Ostend to tremble.

The Arch-Duke thus incouraged, Marches in hast to Newport; The Prince, presuming that the late defeat must needs frighten his Army, forthwith sends away their shiping to Ostend and fords over the Haven, and lodges between the Spanish and the Sea, so to fight, or dye. The rest of the Army of foot, passed over the next day at Ebbe, being the turn of Sir Francis Vere to have the Van, where he found the Arch-Duke with all his Army in Battalia, who apprehending, that these forces were the whole Army, come over, otherwise it had been easy for him to have prevented the Princes fording the rest. And besides, the dust of the sand-hills drove upon the Spanish, that blinded their sight, who were forced to halt, until all were got over.

Vere with the Troops of the Van, leaving the foot, ranged into Order, behind the sand-hills, hastens not to ingage with the Enemy, as yet, but only to chose the place, to attend for them, being all the advantage was left. And so got to a hollow bottome between the Hills and Downs, which they might make use of, and stop the Spaniards way, by the Sea-shore, also. And so draws out 1000. men, whereof 300. English, and 50. of the Princes guard were lodg'd on the top of an Hill, steepy and sandy, and so hollow, that they were covered from [Page] the other Hills, and might shoot as from a Bulwark. And the like order upon two other Hills with 700. men more, the rest of the English; so that this avant-guard took up the third part of the downs.

The Prince comes to Vere, and consult, whether to advance upon the Enemy, or to stay his coming: Most voices (as in honour to advance) conceived it would rather daunt them, and prevent their fortifying upon their Princes passages to Ostend, and so stop their victuals, and cut off any retreat thither.

Vere was of the contrary opinion. That the Arch-Duke gathered his Army in hast, and brought thither, where they intended not to make a seat of warr, unprovided and without any Magazine of victuals, and so no fear to starve the Prince who had the sea open. And according to his Counsel here they stayed.

The Prince returns, places his horse next the sea, six pieces of Cannon advanced and planted in the head of the Avantguard with advantage of wind and sun, some ships of warr waved so neer as to gall the Spanish Battalions upon the sand.

The Arch-Duke had been hurried out, and tired, his men with a nights March and all that day; and his adversaries moving he rested a holt, for some time, and staying till half flood, that the Dutch might have less land for their horse, He marches, and before him some light Horse-men to discover; One of them suffering himself to be taken, and tels Vere (what he knew) that some Dutch forces had been routed, brags of their Number, valour, and resolution speedily to give battel.

And so they did; their Horsemen come in the head of their Divisions, a competent distance, who marching neerer, Vere discharges his Cannon, scatters their Troops in disorder, and fly. The Spanish foot come on & discharge their Ordnance roundlyand did much hurt, which drew them on into the Downs, where Veres horse stood, & a fit place upon a Hill for two demy Cannons to be planted, and himself on the Top of another which commanded all; fromw hence he gave his Orders.

Thither comes the Spaniards with 500. pikes, without Ensign or order, labour to enter upon Veres Hill, who was forced to succour himself with more shot, and gawled them.

Their horse likewise, Marching between the Hills, were sore put to it by the two Demy Cannons, gawling them upon the first profer of a charge; with the advantage also of the Princes horse encountring, put them to a disorderly retreat.

The Battail begins,Battel. the Ordnance on all sides, increasing the Fight, with diverse charges; Vere beats two Regiments of Spaniards to a [...]etreat, which incenseth the rest to advance their [Page] Battel and Rear, so does the Prince the like, and at the first Charge came to handy blows, the French against the Spaniards and Ital [...]ans; and not long after a second Charge also, and retired.

The Prince sees this, and once more commands Solms with the French to fall on, assisted with the Walloons Regiments called the new Geux, and fought bravely against Burlette and Bucquoy, the Enemies Rere.

The Princes Rere come in with five Regiments, and a lasting fight of three hours was doubtfully performed: the Arch Dukes side declining, had their Horse driven almost to Newport; but then, their Foot did the like, against the Orange party on the Downs, to the hazard of their Ordnance.

This while, Vere, with the Van, and his shadowing Hills, had advantage thereby, to gall his Adversaries, who retire to their Gross, from whence disbands five hundred Spaniards more, and fall upon the Assailants, forcing them back to Vere, who not used to give ground, beats the Spaniard home again; whilest their Battel of Foot are come up to the Gross of their Van, under good covert, and by fresh men force Vere's men from his Grounds of Advantage, which he sometime lost and won again, with loss of men, his Design being to beat upon his Adversaries gross body, and to engage them till the Orange other Troops might advance, which did and retreat, and were pursued; by which occasion the Arch Dukes Horse were got out of the Foot-mens reach; an over-sight in fight; for in Battel the success of Foot depend most on the Horse.

But the fight increased on all sides, the English on Vere's side pell mell with the Spaniard, and seeing their Gross disband by degrees, sends to the Prince to second him, with some Horse; lest his Enemy grow too strong upon him, and so increased, that he was forced to descend and encourage them in the Downs; who were driven from their good Ground to Disadvantages. And at his very Approach had two Bullets through his Leg and Thigh, which he dissembled from his Surgeon, knowing, that his presence must encourage his Troops near foiling; for in all this time, the Prince sends no Relief, being put hard to it in the Battell. Vere gave Ground, and retires to his Canon, when his own Horse being shot, fell dead upon him; and his hurts affording him no help of assistance being alone, there he lay, till by good hap Sir Robert Drewry and Sir Iohn Ogle drew him from under his Horse; and being set up behinde one, he escaped the Enemy at his heels, his hurts bleeding much at four holes, he was forced to fall off for that present.

His Brother Sir Horace, he found at the two Canons, having gathered some three hundred retreat Foot, and there staid the Enemy, [Page] who came up to the very handing the Ordnance, Anno 1600. which fired on them, with a Train also of some Barrels hid in the sand, and made wondrous Execution.

And not till now comes Succour, two Cornets of English from the Prince, which encourages Sir Horace, and bold necessity to boot, beat the Spaniard back again; by the way, some others fell on also, and followed them to Execution.

The Arch Dukes Phalanges and Battalions startle, and rowse up, rather for defence, than revenge: and now Orange findes his Friends have fresh courage, by the tottering effects of fight, caused his whole Battell to advance; both meet, and joyn pell mell, Horse to Horse, Foot to Foot, till the fate of fight forced the Arch Duke to turn faces and fly, and were followed to Execution as far as the Morish Dam.

The English having the Chace, took Don Iasper Sampen, Don de Villars Maestro del Campo, and the Arch Duke escaped hardly, for his Horse-bit was held by a Souldier, and he spurred on and got off; losing in this Battell the most of his chief Officers: the Prisoners were Don Francisco de Mendoza Lieutenant General, [...] Count of Solms on his side, Don Lewis de Aville, Don Piedro de Mendoza, Doctor Anarea the Arch Dukes Physician, Don Iaspar Marogan, and five and thirty Horse and Foot Captains, three hundred and ten more men of note, eight Pieces of Cannon, most of the Ammunition, Baggage, and Furniture, the Arch Dukes own Tent, Cabinet, Plate, Seals of Arms, one hundred and six Colours, five thousand slain on the place, besides hundreds of others out-lying, in fight; the loss fell most upon the Spaniards and Italians, who fought bravely, and bore all their brunt, taking too much heart upon their morning success.

On the Orange part were slain two thousand and five hundred, most English, who were put to it against the Spaniards and Italians, in several brave Charges, and so lost six English Captains, Yorkley, Hu [...]iwood, Tyrrill, Duxborow, Priton, Woodward, and most of the Officers slain or hurt. The Spaniards complained of their own Horse which j [...]ded and should have succoured their Foot that fought bravely, and commended the Dutch's order in marshalling their men into severall light Divisions, when as the Adversaries great P [...]alanges and Stand of Pikes were unwieldy heavy to charge.

The Danes dispute the English Fishing upon their Coasts Norway and Island, 1601. The Danes deny the English to fi [...]h. and seize the English and Goods there, who indeed, made no claim of Right, but onely, Leave and Custom from Norways Kings, before their conjunction with Denmak; and confess, that by the League with King Iohn heretofore, they were to ask it from seven to seven years, which had been neglected with King Christian; for in 1585. they had Liberty [Page] without further Licence; and concluded (which I wonder at) Mare liberum. Anno 1601. This occasion acquainted the English Delegates (that were sent thither to treat) with the mystery and benefit of Trading, and for the Londoners to be instituted into an Eaest-India Company with great Privileges.

King Iames nearly concerned to congratulate the happy prevention of Essex his Rebellion,The King congratulates the defeat of Essex's Treason. sends to England the Earl Mar Ambassadour, with the Abbot of Kinloss, to congratulate the Queens happy success, against such treasonable Attempts; which she takes well, (coming so seasonably, to satisfie ill Rumours, That Essex was made away for affection to the King of Scots Title, and that the Ambassadours Commission had been to plead for his part.) And withall to expostulate her remisness, for not due punishing Valentine Tomas a base Calumniator of their King: and that Ewer and Ashfield should be shadowed here, two Fugitives from Scotland; But Ashfield might be [...]eleased; And in conclusion, (their chiefest Errand) for Assignment of some Lands in England, as a Rent-charge, for defraying the affairs in Scotland, then too burdensom for the King.

She thanked the King, The Queens Answer. and wished that all Rebellions against him, might the Eve of that Day finde the same End and like Success of all Traitors to Him, as Essex was to Her.

That Tomas was spared in prudence to their Masters honour, lest by rubbing old sores with often Trials and Executions, (too frequent Examples) might rather increase slanderous Tongues, whose impudence in accusing, even without any possibility of truth, or shew of proof, yet through too common rumour thereof, may beget (and that, in time) belief.

Ewer indeed was an ill man for denying peremptory things of evident truths, which yet his protestations wrought upon easie spirits with credulity.

As for Ashfield, he had cousened the President of the English Borders of Scotland, with a Trick to go thither, and play'd the Knave to get home again.

She always found with long experience, that to countenance evil manners in her neighbour subjects, was, to teach her own, to do worse to her self, and made a distinction of that, with national protection, which in some cases must be maintained.

And that for Lands she would add to the former Advance two thousand pounds a year, for maintaining inviolable unity and agreement with her, with caution to him, not to intrust such, as seek their own private gain, with the publick loss.

Thus much in publick, besides their private contrivance with the principal Nobility and Councel, to work them the Kings Friends; who assured him peaceable reception into England after Queen Elizabeth.

[Page] The Pope Clement the Eighth had that fear, and therefore by his Breves prohibits all such Professors of the Roman faith not to admit any, how near soever in bloud,Pope Clement his Bulls against Scotland. unless upon Oath he promote the Catholick Doctrine; and the like is brought over to Scotland by Hamilton and Hayes, two Iesuits, men of fiery spirits and working brains, chief Instruments of Sedition at the holy League in Paris; these men are proclamed Traitors, but lurk in the North for a long time.

A general Assembly is there resolved at Brunt-Island for repressing Papists, An Assembly. and very conscientious, begin to rectifie themselves; careless Ministery, hasty admission of mean men, pleasing the people, and ruineth the Church; and therefore they ordain Days of Humiliation and Prayer.

But Mr. Iohn Davidson was of opinion,Davidson's Letter to them. they did ill, not to blanch the King and Court, and therefore writes to them.

HOw long shall we fear or favour flesh, and follow the counsel and command thereof? Shall our Meetings be in the name of Man? (The King called them, &c.) Is it time for us now, our Brethren thrust out without just order; Papists, Jesuits, Atheists countenanced and advanced to the best Room in the Realm, bringing Idolalatry and Babylonish Captivity? Shall we be inveigled with pretences, petty Preferment to Parliament Votes, and Titles of Prelacy? &c.

Then scoffing at the King, But Boniton (says he) that Thief is executed, What's that to Religion? Is there none offends but Boniton? But the King is sound, if so, the danger the less, but there is nothing sound in Kirk or King.

Melius & obtabilius est bell [...]m pace impia, & a Deo distrahente.

Do what the King could, such Libells were licensed, for which he was committed.

Their Church thus settled,He desires a new Translation of the Bible. the King urges for a new Translation of the Bible, being miserably lamely done, disputing with them the Errors therein, as also their Prose, and Singing Psalms, wherein he shewed the faults of Meeter and Matter, with admiration to all that heard him so ready to reason with them, their discrepance from the Text, by proofs of other Languages, which though he could not obtain from them therein, yet he had it accomplished, where he found obedience to his commands afterwards in England, Anno 1603.

The King caresses all his Friends,1601. The Duke of Lenox Ambassadour into France. and sends Lodowick Duke of Lenox Ambassadour into France, with some persons of Honour, and two Counsellours of State to caress the King; he arrives at Diep, and enters Paris with a train of Scots, that met him from all parts, a custom they ever had, to set out themselves the [Page] best side outwards, especially from home, where they are least known, but by their own declarations.

And not long after Audience, at St. Iermans, (the Queen in childe-bed) and then took leisure to visit his Mother Madam d' Aubigney, whilest the King poasted to Callis, upon false intelligence that Queen Elizabeth was desperate ill, or that the affairs of Flanders, invited him, Ostend then besieged. No doubt, his mouth watered to have found such another faction, as might foist in another Bastard of Normandy; in gallantry he would say so. Upon his return the Duke takes leave, and lands in England.

We may guess what he had done,From thence comes into England, assured the Kings affection to the French, and as of ancient amity, so craves continuance and support towards his new Inheritance, in case of necessity, when his time should come to the Crown of England.

And here he findes the Queen ill disposed, and the Parliament set, suspected of all, to have made his Masters clame to the Right of Succession, and many one ready to offer assistance, but he declared to them, the Kings dislike to breed jealousies by such unkindness; his Commission being no other, than to salute her, with the Kings filial affection to her Majesty; and because he found the Irish malady oppressed her most, he proffered his Masters aid,and returns home. to serve her there, which she took well, and he took leave.

The Mighty States (ou [...] of sunken Netherlands) will have no delay,The siege of Ostend. but to subdue Flanders; and to amuze the Arch Duke, Maurice Prince of Orange is sent into Gelderland, to besiege Reinbergh, and had assistance fron England of four thousand men; but the Arch Duke was more forward, and fell upon Ostend; to whose Relief are sent twenty Companies, and Sir Francis Vere their General, both without and within.

Ostend from a poor Fisher-town, had repulsed the Duke of Parma, Maltee; and now this Arch Duke with all his seventeen Forts erected round about it.

For Sir Francis Vere in the fifth moneth of the Siege, treats about the Surrender, delaying the Delegates, till Auxiliaries were raised, and then sent them away, with a fig for them.

The Arch Duke was angry, batters Ostend with eighteen Cannon, drives on two thousand Foot to set upon the old Town, the Horse put them on, and take two Fortresses and the English Trenches; nine Ordnance out of the West Gate with Chain-shot miserably rent the Assailants, with mighty loss in other places.

Sir Francis Vere quits his six moneths Government (as it was ordained) to Frederick Dork a Dutch-man, who with others succeeding him, defended it three years and four mouths, against Spains fury, and the raging sea, the more troublesom Enemy, [Page] and in that time were intomb'd in honour, many brave English and others the most warlike Souldiers of all Nations in Christendom, contending for a barren piece of sand.

The French King fearing such an evil Neighbour, Marshal Byron sent to the Queen, provides for his own Coast, and comes to Callis, whom Queen Elizabeth congratulates by her Secretary Edmonds, and he returns the Visit to her by Marshal Byron, Monsieur Arvern, and Sir Aumons, and besides they had in charge, to wish her happiness in the timely suppression of the late Rising and sudden Execution of Essex and his Complices.

She said, His faults deserved that punishment, of which she gave him timely warning, foreseeing his ambition, edg'd on by others, to commit Treason; for which yet, had he begg'd it, she might have given him pardon.

Byron not long after, felt the like destiny for his Plots against the French King, though his merits to his Master were far exceeding any pretences of Essex; yet all of them and his thirty wounds in the Kings service could not prevail,executed after. though he begg'd it, with too much desire of longer life. And indeed, they were both equally matches, in most things parallel, either in vice or virtue.

Money was scarce in England, Iris [...] money abased, 160000. per annum. being transported yearly into Ireland, one hundred and sixty thousand pounds sterling, and under that colour the Merchants had a common way, to convey elsewhere much more; and once got to the Rebells, it was good barter for all commodities with any forein Nation, and (by stealth) with English; the Coin for Ireland was therefore abased, with some Brass, which would bring over the sterling money back again into England.

The Arguments against this could not prevail with Treasurer Burkhurst, besides the Law of that time, Necessity. 'Tis true, the Souldier lost in his pay, which they felt, but understood not, and the Queen was not so nice of her publick repute, but to veil to the benefit, which lasted not long; and the money-masters not then so well experienced to manage the advantage; the Spanish policy therein grown cunning might have taught us what they practice for gain.

With fresh pay, the Deputy goes on, removes Ter Oen from Black-water, Derry Castle, Donegal Monastery.

The tittular Earl of Desmond and Mac Carty are surprized, arreigned and condemned of Treason, and sent into England, by whom and others is discovered the intention of landing Forces from Spain at Cork, which was therefore fortified, and fresh mann'd with help of two thousand new Souldiers out of England.

The Spaniards lands in September at the mouth of Kingsale [Page] Haven, and the Governour there, Percie, retires [...], and the other let in with thirty five Ensignes, [...] welcomed by the Inhabitants. The President Carew bestirrs him; drives the County about;Spanish land in Ireland, lodges some forces in places of advantage, ready with his Army, to expect don Iohn D' Aquila with his title of Master General and Captain of the Catholick King, in defending the war of God, and maintenance of Religion in Ireland, and to deliver them from the jaws of the Devil.

Carew forthwith drives them out of the Castle, by the Haven, when 150. more got in, and the Haven blockt up by Levison, the English vice-Admiral; This news brings Ter-Oen with all the chief Rebells, to joyn with some Spanish got out of the Town, and all together make up an Army of 6000. foot, and 500. horse, assured of victory. And the English, wearied with winter sieges, spent with poverty and hunger, yet ply the siege,are defeated, not suffering the Enemy without to recruit the Town, or Spaniards to re-enter, but they adventure, and are repulsed, and retreat, but are hotly pursued by the Deputy, (whilst Carew keeps the Spaniards from breaking out of the Town) and forced to make a stand and fight,24. December, with great loss, and then to fly. Don Alphonso O'campo taken pr [...]soner, with three of his Captains, and fix Alpherez, (Ensignes) Nine Colours, whereof six Spaniards, and 1200. slain; with very little loss to the English; And within six daies after, Don Iohn designes a parly, And to yield up to the Deputy what they possest, and to depart with life and goods,and depart home.but brave Don to be the last Man left behind.

Their departure so sodain, troubled the Irish, who are worsted every where, many of the chief Surprized and taken.

And now the old English Adage,Ecclesiastick Papists at difference, When knaves fall out, truth comes to light. The Ecclesiastick Papists in England go by the Ears; The Jesuite against Secular Priests: No blowes but Bookes, and pens for Pot-guns, the general thus.

One Blackwel sometime fellow of Trinity in Oxon was made Arch-priest for the Seculars, and he too much a friend to Garnet their Jesuites general, they decline him with scorn.

Hereupon they are degraded,Seculars set out the Jesuites in their Colours. and appeal to Rome, and therefore are Booked for Schismaticks and Hereticks, but they got the censure of the University at Paris to approve the same, and meaning to prevail in the Queens favour,

They shew, that in her first eleven years reign not one suffered for his Conscience; Nor for ten years after that Pius Quintus Bull against the Queen, there were executed but twelve Priests; most of them convicted Traytors; And that then about the year 1580. crept in the Iesuite, whose mischievous practices against the State had disturbed all, and accasioned the severe Lawes against Catholicks. [Page] And yet they say, in ten years following, but fifty Priests were executed,Anno. 1602 the Queens mercy b [...]ishing fifty five more, justly deserving death.

From that time (say they) Parsons in Spain an English Iesui [...]e entertains all Vagabond English into their seminaries there, and from thence came hither turbulent Priests. That he incites the Spaniard now to invade Ireland again, and consirms the Infanta's Title to this Crown, which all the seminary Students maintained by oath.

That Holt the Iesuite suborned Hesket to rebellion, Cullin, York, and Williams, to kill the Queen, Walpole and Squire to impoyson her.

They set out Parsons for a Bastard, a seditious Sicophant; and condemn the Iesuite libels to be full of falsities, and trayterous to God and Her; And conclude, with advise to the English, not to hazard their Children into their seminaries, where, with the Elements of Learning, they infuse Tenents, poysonous Treasons.

The Jesuites thus set out, they retort on the other;Both are banished England. and it was best wisdom for the State, to banish them both, and but time; for, Winter and Tesmond a Jesuite, were sent for into Spain, to consult the destruction of the Queen, and by other plots, to exclude King Iames Inheritor.

The like Conspiracie in the Low-Countrey against the Arch-Duke, and in France against the King, (and so against most Princes; The Planets then in Conjunction, Malevolent to great men, and foretold by most Astrologers.) In which he escaped hapily, Byrones Treason, who was beheaded and accuses Bouillon, confederate, who fled into Germany, and was complained of to Queen Elizabeth, whose Counsel he craves in these his difficulties, dangerous to his safety, and the hazard of the Monarchy, somewhat drooping, which in police she endeavoured to support, and did, with Counsel and Arms, in much affection also to him and reformed Religion, which faith she defended alwaies, in every place.

And now the Town and signiory of Geneve is assaulted by the Duke of Savoy, Geneve besieged, the peoples contribution of [...]ony. much pittyed by their Pupils here in Scotland and England, having their Nourishment from that seminary (then) of seditious reformers, who by their preaching to the people, procured great sums of money to be gathered by the bevolence of most Churches in this Island. The Common-people well minded were often cacht, in that time and oportunity of Devotion, liberally to contribute; especially, if it please the Preacher to set it forth, with Rhetorical San [...]tion; as the Presbyters use to do, for the dear Brethren of Geneve, Germany, and Scotland, &c. One for another, as they for us, when in truth these other were (the most of them) rank Revolters, and [Page] it was then, a great suspition that much of monies, drapt short of their receiving; we return to Scotland.

The King minding to take leave of his Native-Countrey in peace,The Isle Lewis reduced to the Kings Commands. and so to settle the continuance after his remove to his second inheritance, now at length very near, He resolved to reduce the High-land Inhabitants of the Northern Isles into the Main; to civilize them, and to plant Low-land men in their habitations.

Some forward Gentlemen,The undertakers. were undertakers, Guided by the affection and Prayers of the Abbot of Lenders, who went with them. The Gallants were Colonel William Stuart, Captain William Murray, Lermouth of Balcolmy, Iames Spence of Wormston, Sir Iames Amstrader, and Iames Forret of Fingasker. These well furnished, fell first upon the Isle Lewis, and within four daies voyage landed there.

It was Commanded (for Government these had none) by Mordoch Macklond, base son to old Macklond, tirannously lording over the poor people. Being surprized, he made bad resistance; his base usage of the Natives, made him more fearfull of their revenge than of an Enemies Conquest, and therefore hnmbling himself to Conditions; even in the Treaty, his heart distrusting quarter,Macklond flyes to Sea and takes Balcolmy. who never gave any, he stole away, and fled to Sea, leaving the Inhabitants soon to Obedience.

The Laird of Balcolmy returning back with this good news to the King; and not many Leagues lanched from Land, but Macklond with a Number of Birlings (little vessels) boarded Balcolmy, killed all his men, and kept him alive, for advance of a Ransome, which was procured out of the Kings Cofers, and he conveyed into Orkney, where he died.

The other Conquerors interessed in this injurie, conjure Neill Macklond brother to Mordoch to betray him, for a piece of money and hopes of preferment; He did so, by Ambuscado surprizes him and twelve Men more.Mordock Executed. Murthers these in could blood; but to keep his word, delivers Mordoch to the undertakers, who sent him to Saint Andrews, where he was executed.

The New Planters, began to settle, and share out Lands to themselves, and tenure it out to the poor Natives, drudges, and sworn Subjects; whilst in this seeming security, Norman Macklond, Natural son to old Macklond, with a Regiment of Rogues,The new Planters beaten out of all. raised from all the Neighbour Isles, fell upon them unawares, and forced them to these Conditions.

To procure Him and His remission of all offences and pardon.

To resign to him all their right, to the Isle Lewis.

That Sir James Spence and his son in Law, should be Pledges to him, til these were performed, by Patent from the King.

[Page] The case thus altered, Sir Iames Armstroder with his company came home (many being killed) obtained them remission, and security of the Isle, and sent to Norman, by Iames Lermouth; the Pledges released, and this Enterprise defeated; but was again attempted three years after, 1605. in this manner.

The first Undertakers weary of thier Design by excessive expence made over their Right to Lumsdale of Ardie and Hay, and again attempted, but to no purpose. who with the treachery of Mackey Mackerzy, and Donold Gorum, forced the Indabitants out of the Isle; and having done this work, sends to the South-land for Artizans and Laborers, and beginning to build and plant, but wanting means to pay, the Work-men went away; the Natives abroad associate with a number of Islanders, invade the Planters with often Incursions, and so wearied them out of all, for a piece of money to boot to Mackerzy.

There being no remedy left for Robert Bruce, Bruce the Minister his [...]. exiled into France, yet upon intercession of some friends, and submission to the King, he had leave to return; and so appearing before the King and Commissioners of the Church, acknowledged his Error, concerning Gowries guilt, (as you have heard) and further to recant it in his next Sermon; which Protestation he subscribes, witnessed by eleven Commissioners, and so had leave to preach, but did not, pretending, That his ministery would be discredited if he should preach by injunction; and was therefore discharged his Ministery by the General Assembly, who enacted, That in memory of his Majesties Deliverance from Gowries Attempt, Sermons, Prayer and Thanksgiving should be solemnied in all the Burghs every Tuesday the fifth of August for ever, as the Parliament had prescribed in all Churches of the Kingdom.

The Iesuits (as in England so in Scotland) having no hopes of Toleration, Mowbrays intent to kill the King, but much urged in both Kingdoms, and that their pitifull Pamphlets, for the petence of the Infanta's title to England, not prevailing with the people, nor their Treaty of Marriage of the Lady Arabella, with the Prince of Savoy, nor with her and the Earl of Hertfords Grand-childe; they went the old way to work, by Murder; and Francis Mowbray son to the Laird of Barru [...]ho [...]g all, by the Infanta' [...] Court at Bruxels, undertook to kill the King; and in his journey home through England was discovered at London; and accused by one Daniel an Italian, which the other denied, and were both sent secure to Scotland; and there by more severe Examinations, Mowbray was committed to Edenburgh castle, where, forcing the Grate Irons of his Window, intended to let himself down by his Bed-sheets, which proving too short,He breaks his own neck. he fell from the precipice, and dasht out his brains upon the Rocks; his body was ordered into quarters, as the manner of Traitors, though his kindred (well born) pretended [Page] that he was strangled in Prison, Anno 1601. and his body flung out of the Window, to amuze the world with his own death and guilt.

Queen Elizabeths increasing towards her decreasing,The French Ambasladours in England. she was now left of all without recovery, which occasioned the French King to send his Ambassadour into Scotland, and another into England, under pretence of impeaching the policies of Spain, but rather to observe the motions and disposition of either people, in reference to the Queens death, accompanied with Letters to certain Lords of either Nation.

To Secretary Cecil with extreme affection,Delivers Letters to Cecil and discourses with him. it being high time to caress such men of interest in State, when in a visit, the Ambassadour to sound him, fell into heart-burning for the miserable calamity that would befall the poor Nation, in the death of the Queen, and in particular Cecil's exchange, of a gracious Mistress for a stranger, King of Scotland, if he should succeed; a Prince no doubt subtile (said he) enough, as yet, to seem fair, untill the future occasion give him power and means to revenge his Mothers death, as upon others, so in particulars on you, for your fathers fault then, and your counsels since.

The Secretary suspecting his drist,Cecils answer.answered, That it was the usual reward of unspotted duty, when Ministers of State chiefly respect the service of their Sovereign, without regard to their own safety: himself ready to suffer with comfort for so just a cause, the credit thereof being the best security to an even conscience; esteeming that Maries Martyrdom the highest honour; but he supposed, that matters past would not be challenged to memory; if it should be so, and his own case desperate, he might be minded to flee into another City, and take the benefit of his Majesties royal offer.

The Ambassadour made fair retreat, and said, That in case the King of Scots should carry himself with respect which was due to a King of France, his Master was not purposed to impeach his interest.

Cecil replied, The King was wise, and shewed it in that resolution.

The Secretary sets down this passage to King Iames, taking occasion thereby to assure him his faithfull service, Though he does not as others had done, needlesly hazard his fortune, before fit time.

The King returns him this Answer.

As I do heartily thank you (says he) for your plain and honest offer, so may you assure your self, that it would do me no pleasure, for you to hazard Fortune or Reputation, since the loss of either would make you less valuable to me; No, I love not to feed on such fantastical humours, though I cannot hinder busie-bodies, their own idle imaginations; but I hold it the Office of a King, as sitting on the [Page] Throne of God,Anno 1602. to imitate the Primum Mobile, and by his steady and [...]ver constant course to govern all other changeable and uncertain motions of the inferiour Planets. And I protest in Gods presence, that for your constant and honest carriage in your Sovereigns service, I loved your virtues, long before I could be certain that you would deserve at my hands the love of your person. Wherefore go on and serve her truly that reigneth, as you have done; for he that is false to the present, will never be true to the future.

To give your judgment of the Kings wisdom and piety, see the difference in his answer to the Earl of Northumberland, who certified him of the Queens weakness, and advised him to make sure of his Title, by apprehending the necessity of hasty possession whilest time was offered.

To him he professeth, The Kings answer to the Earl of Northumberland. That man can neither be religious nor just, that deals not by his Neighbour as himself would be dealt withall, and in a Person of quality it can be no wisdom, to [...]eap Hedg and Ditch, and adventure his neck, for gathering forbidden fruit before it be ripe, when as by waiting the seasonable time, he may be sure to finde the Gates of the Orchard open, and with freedom, to enter, take, and tast at liberty.

Sure it were a weakness and unworthiness in me to come in as an Usurper, with offence and scandal to the Laws, and present Estate of Government, when I may in the right time clame the Crown as nearest Heir to the Prince deceased, and possess it with equity. Should I, out of untimely ambition break the long continued and faithfully preserved Amity, that by the proof of many mutual kinde offices hath taken root amongst us, were an error inexcusable. And though I do acknowledg your kind [...] affection in the offers you make of assistance; I must tell you freely, That no Prince can presume of any Subjects loyalty to himself, that hath been unfaithfull and unsound to his own Sovereign; nor could I ever look to be secure in a Kingdom so traiterously disposed.

And adviseth the Earl, To forbear such Letters, and when he did write, (which he wished but rarely, and not but in great occasion) to beware of any thing justly to offend the Queen; lest by interception or other misadventure, he might be disabled to serve him hereafter.

The Spaniards driven out of Ireland, Spaniards drove out of Ireland. Ter Oen retires to his Fastness in Ulster, the Deputy pursues him with a great Army, burn, kill, and take all that come in their way of enmity, divers of the chief Rebells submit, whom the Deputy receives to favour and preferment, somewhat (the common sense) before others, of that Nation, always loyal; It was his wisdom so to do, to quiet the Kingdom, and quench the issue of Bloud, by forgeting rather injuries past, than for the present to reward the merits [Page] of others, much deserving. And it took effect also in the person of Ter Oen, who tired with treachery, his best defence, and weared with a world of miseries, in this time of Rebellion, having leisure,Ter Oen submits to mercy. whilest he lurked, to meditate and bring all together to the sadness of his soul; he humbly offers his submission to the Queen, and prays for pardon, which she in distemper of health authorized the Deputy to promise, and to receive his subjection, which was done at Dublin, in that State of Vicegerency, the Deputy sitting in his Throne, incircled with the most of his Militia.

Ter Oen, whose wicked life had brought him to misery, despicable to himself, humbled him at the very threshold of the chamber, prostrates his knees, for pardon of his many offences of God and his Sovereign, to whose princely clemency he flies, as to Anchor-hold, submits his life and fortune, having heretofore found her goodness, as he hath felt her power, now seeks for mercy as an Example to everlasting memory of her present clemency; assuring, his years not so many, nor his body so weak in power, nor courage so cold, but that by valiant and loyal service, he may live to expiate his Rebellion.

Upon this score he was taken to favour and pleasure of the Queen: Charges of the Irish War in the four last years and a half. 1198717. l. 9. s. 1. d. now eight years after his first Rebellion brought to an happy issue, under the Lord Mountjoy the Deputy; the long destraction whereof, added to the Queens age, often distempers of the minde, which settled into a sickness of her climaterick seventieth year; and with a fatal longing to remove from London to Richmond, The Queens ominous remove to Richmond in January, in a foul day, to talk of death, and divorce between Her and her Kingdoms, to whom she wedded her self, she said, (When first she put on a remarkable Ring on her finger) and never removed, till now, it was cut off.

And thus sadness increasing,past hope of recovery. no wonder at what cause, for she had many; most men, the multitude, will have one to be forsooth the want of Essex; such also were his admirers, and none other of honesty or discretion. Indeed the French King to curry favour, had sent her Letters of suspition, That the Nobility neglected her too much, affecting the King of Scots, that the dawning of her day should S [...]n-set, when too timely they endeavoured to adore the morning-rise. The Court custome. And this was true, her Ladies weary of waiting, wish for a change, and all together, long for a Successor, whom they advise to be sent for. The Queen not so sick but to see this, and complain'd, That being yoaked she could trust to none, and her Estate turned top-side turvey.

She was told also, the frequent poasting to Scotland, at which she did not repine, having settled her affection on the Kings succession, though not necessary for her heretofore to declare. In March she hastens with some symptoms of deaths approach; [Page] very froward and pettish, evermore declining Physick, and now onely took Medicines for the souls health, communicated to her by the Arch-bishop of Canterbury in Discourse and Prayer.

The Lord Admiral, Lord Keeper, and Secretary Cecil, Counsellours come to her. came from the Council, to know her pleasure for her Successour.

She said, My Throne is for a King, none other shall succeed me.

Ce [...]il asked her, What King?

She said, What other King than my Kinsman, the King of Scots?

She was frequent in Prayer, till her tongue was weakned into silence, hands weary with heaving up, or eys able to look out, then after some time, not stirring, she leisurely turned her head, with ratling in the throat,Q. Elizabeth dies on a Thursday, so did her Father and all his children. and gave up the ghost to God Almighty on that day of her Birth, from whom she had [...]t, seventy years since, on a Thursday night this four and twentieth of March, the last day of the year 1602. and in the five and fortieth of her Reign, an Age and Reign not to be numbered by any one King of England before. Her Successour said as much in his Preface to his son, The like had not been seen or heard of since the days of Augustus.Basilicon Doron.

And one speaking of her days, See Boltons Lectures, p. 13, 14, x 5. We have lived (says he) in a tim [...] of miracles; Was it not a miraculous mercy, that Queen Elizabeth that m [...]t [...]hl [...]ss Princess and Pearl of the World should in in these [...] times be preserved in safety, as a sweet harmless Lamb, amidst so many merciless, Romish Wolves, who implacably thirsted for her pretious life? Was it not a wonder, that the sacred hand of that self-same crowned blessed Lady (next under Gods Almighty one) should in despite of all the P [...]ers of Darkness and popish rage, raise our tr [...]e Religion, as it were, by mirac [...]e from the dead, a thing which the World hoped little to see, that [...]ven they which beheld it done, scarcely believed their own senses, that after the silver line of her most hououred life, should be hid in the endless maze of Gods bottomless mercies, from the fiery assaults of so many popish Bulls, such a prodigious variety of murderous complotments against her sacred person, and all these desperate Assassines of Rome, who all her life long, hunted full greedily after her virgin bloud? And was not our Deliverance in Eighty Eight a miracle, when the Sea fought for us? There was a Day, which (as many of us remember) the Papists called, The long look [...] for Day, the Day should pay for all; Answer to the Libell of England, p. 176, 185. they meant the Day when she should die; that it would be a bloudy Day, by the uncertainty of the next Heir; our Countrey is in the most dreadfull and desperate case, in the greatest misery, and most dangerous times that ever it was since or before the Conquest, and far worse than any Countrey in Christendom, by the certainty of the most bloudy, civil, and forein Wars; all our [Page] wealth and felicity whatsoever, depending upon a few uncertain days of Queen Elizabeths life.

Clouds of bloud (says another) hang in the Air, which at the death of Queen Elizabeth will dissolve and rain down upon England, W [...]stonus in peroratione ad Academicos. which then is expected as a Prey to Neighbour Nations.

These false Prophets spake this sense; for the Sun set, and no night followed.

Mira cano, Sol occubuit, Nox nulla secuta.

The same mercifull hand, at the same time, crowned Queen Elizabeth with immortal glory, and set the Earthly Crown of this Kingdom upon King Iames his head, without shedding so much as one drop of bloud.

Sic transit gloria mundi.

Queen Elizabeth was a Princess excellent in all Tongues; she translated the Prayers of Queen Katharine into Latine, French, and Italian; she wrote a Century of Sentences, and dedicated them to her Father; and translated Salustius; she made several Orations in Latine in both the Universities; and entertained Ambassadours always in their own Languages: many of her excellent Speeches in Parliament are in print.

Queen Mary of Scotland wrote a Book of Verses in French of the Institution of a Prince, all with her own hand, wrought the Cover with her Needle, which the King Kept as a Relick of her Memory, as I have seen.

The End of the first Part.

§

§

[Page]

[Page]

REX FIDEI DEFENSOR POTENTISS: IACOBUS▪ D. G. MAGNAE BRITANNIAE▪ GALLIAE ET HIBERNIAE▪

FIDEI DEFENSOR

Behold Greate Britaines▪ France and Irelands Kinge

About whose Browes Clusters of Crownes doe springe

Whose faith him Champion of the FAITH en-stiles

Vpon whose head fortune and Honnor smiles

The Rod of vice and Vertues Recompence

Longe liue Kinge IAMES in all Magnificence

Printed and sould by P. Stout

§

[Page]THE REIGN AND DEATH OF King JAMES OF Great BRITTAIN, FRANCE, and IRELAND, the First, &c.

The Second Part.

LONDON, Printed by Henry Hills, 1655.

Introduction.

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[Page]

WE reade in Stories, how perplexed several Princes have been in some dependent policies,Dilemma in King James What to do in reference to his Inheritance in England. at their first acquisition to their Governments, especially such Sovereigns as come to their Crowns by accidents mixt with Succession: I finde not any (amongst many) more difficult to decide, than that which befell King Iames, and followed the death of Queen Elizabeth.

The horrid remembrance of the late execution of his Mother Queen Mary, famed by all forein Nations, for a Lady that had born the Illustrious Diadems of two glorious Scepters, the one by lawfull Succession of former Kings, even from her Cradle; the the other by powerfull Conquest of a mighty Prince, with her incomparable merit, beauty of her body, and more of her minde, living long time, to see her Son a King, renowned for wisdom, and thereby apt to apprehend, and powerfull of himself, and so fitted for Revenge.

The splendour of Imperial Crowns are eclipsed by suffering such ignominy, the sacred character of Church and State defaced, the magnificence of the most secured Thrones destroyed, and Sovereignty would cease to be the image of God.

But for him to ascend that Throne steeming with his Mothers innocent bloud, wrought amazement to himself (no doubt) and wonder to the world, what he would do in this Dilemma.

Best of beauties may be discoloured, and so the complexion alters; Christian policies are good rules for Sovereignty: we may examine his Resolution by the happy effects of his Actions.

Besides, he was bound to acknowledge Truths. Her Adoption of Him to his inheritance, sweetned Him into the peoples candid Acceptation. And though by that solemn Action, on Her death-bed she gave Him but his Own; Yet she might have rendered Her self and former Cruelty less disputable, by objecting against Him, his Mothers Religion, averse to the reformed in England; strangers they were both; and He Her son, whom in Iustice she had destroyed.

For though her fathers will setled the succession, Her power with the people might have allowed it, she might have Married, or Created another, and so made a favorite. Or indeed (the [Page] sure of all) she might have setled this Nation in the people, to succeed Her as heirs to all. The times and Relations then, more likely than [...]ver since as now it is. Thus she might have done, see what she did.

Seing, She could not repair Her cruel Error, Yet by those means She manifested Her resentment, of what, She had done amiss, by recompensing that Evil, with this Good.

And ill humour of Malice, is not easily purged, It reacheth to the Person hated; and to all near Relations Children and Friends.

And no doubt, some secret Maxime or Policie of St [...]te might be taken up sufficient to have accused Queen Mary of Crime, and so to have put a fixed Resolution to that Action, which otherwise, in it self seems Savage.

Her Adoption of Him, was of equal Ballance with His Birthright, and (usually) as Venerably received, as Inheritance from Parents. T'is true, They give the Birth, but leave us, to Succession, Free Election (as the Gift) is most admirable, for its merits; so ought it to be, the more Acceptable for the Miracle. The One, Natural, even to Brutes, in their Ordinary Inclinations: But Adoption operates with affection, and choice; not from Sense, but from Reason; and examines the Object, ere it settles the possession. And so, thus considered, she, merits Pardon; He, Excuses.

Another Relation, falls upon Her Counsellors then, the most honourable birth; admirable in wisdom; and Eminent in Power; for the King to confide in These; or They in Him. Those, that found an Executioner for Her, might in time, bring forth a Regicide for Him.

See, how his wisdom, Expiates all.

Those hands, that hurt Her, healed Him, who sealed to Her death, signed to His Reception. Nor, could any private malice of theirs, be directed towards Her Person, but Her Power.

Necessity of State, made Them submit, to sentence Her, which otherwise, they (perhaps) would have spared, in Reverence to Her, and Honor to Him. And, as their Persons were Eminent, so was it hazardous for Him, to question a Crime, that He had not power, to punish.

Acts they are, so different in Them, as make up the wonder in Him. How to revenge the One, and not reward the Other. Acts of Oblivion, alwaies more Noble, than Revenge. Caesars. erection, of Pompeys Statue, secured his own.

Acts of Honor to others memory, reflect, in effect, upon the person present.

And therefore; He, rather chose to Court Her Counsellors with the favour of Clemencie, than to correct Them, with the [Page] Rod of Iustice. Rigour hath much of Majesty; but Mercy hath more of Glory. The One may be more safe, the other more secure. And though Machivael, makes Fear, and Love, incompatible and inseparable: Iustice and Mercy may Kiss each Other; we may Fear and yet Love the Lord.

Virtues consist in Concatenation. He who stiled Hanibals Crueltie a Virtue, by the same Argument, concluded Clemencie a Vice.

He had Examples of former Presidents; The King of France forgat the Quarrel of the Duke of Orleans; He did so: And more did King Iames, which over-ruled Him, to that pious, and prudent Consideration, that resolved into the most hapy Event, The aym, and End, to make His design also Practical, and His Precepts an admirable Pat [...]ern. And indeed, the Paths, which He alwaies walked in, were the less obvious to Common footsteps, as they were confirmed to choicer Limits: Being almost an example to Himself, and Inimitable of all; for in His way, few went, before Him.

And thus resolved, whilst Queen Elizabeths age and weakness increased, He wanted not Parasites of Her own Court, that constantly offered their Intelligence of all Her Actions and weak condition, which gave him timely occasion to consider the settlement of his affairs at home in reference to his Inheritance of England. His first was for Religion, and to judg with what affection the Kirk of Scotland had faction,The King settles affairs in Scotland in Religion. with Calvins documents; very averse from Papistrie, but subject to the Infection of Neighbour schisms; And how to ballance them, was his work to wade through.

It was no boot heretofore to strive against this stream at home, and therefore he suffered the violence to run into the usual Chanel, for that time; Wisely weighing, the perverse peevishness of the Ministery; And with what constitutions they had linckt themselves, with the publick affections of the People, and withall got a mixt power in the affairs of State; And it was not, for him, to break through that Custom, which yet he foresaw must afterwards quarrel with the Customes of his successive Inheritance, where Episcopacie had fixed such firm footing.

But,Bacilic on doron. laying the foundation of his adventure on His own Penn; in his Instructions to his son Prince Henry, stated to him, the estate of that Kirk.

And indeed, their Reformation from Popery, as it was extraordinary, by God, so was it done Inordinately, by popular Tumult and Rebellion; of such, as did the work; clog'd with passion, and particular respects (as in other Neighbouring Nations,) fiery Spirits of the Ministry, got such a guiding of the people, in their times of confusion, partly in the Governments [Page] of his Grand-mother and his Mother (as hath been related) and afterwards, usurping larger liberty under four Regents in His Long Minority; and by these occasions, setled themselves, in hope, to lead the people by the Nose, and so in all factions, then, (and for many years before, and sythence) to spouse any quarrel, as their own; evermore esteeming Him, the highest evil, not by any Vice, but only, to be a King.

And because, some of the Ministery, the more grave and learned, were asham'd to side with them, therefore the other sort, preached themselves, a Parity in the Church; the Mother of Confusion, and enemy to unity.

By which means, great disorder was likely to follow, which the King sought by several waies to prevent, or countermine their subtlety, with His wisdom. The professed Puritan being a Sect, whom no deserts could oblige, nor their own Oaths, or promises bind; and whose consciences, had not more of credit, than their own conceits.

And therefore, the Kings preservative, against such, was to advance learning in their Ministers. In whom truly, [...]il His time, (who was able to try Men) it was very defective, (taking a pride in their pretended zeal, to shadow their great ignorance in divine knowledg, making their shop dark, thereby to vent false wares to the people) And so, to keep ballance in their different conditions, with those of the Episcopacie. And to avoid extreams, to repress the Vanity of the Precisian, so not to suffer the excess of a Bishop, and to chain them both, with such bonds and ligaments, as did preserve that Estate, from creeping into very great Corruption; Even in the period of time when their Doctrines had amplified into Heads of very dangerous Consequence. Errors grow fastest in hot brains, but their Obstinacie therein is that dead flesh, which makes the green wound of an Error fester by degrees into the old sore of an Heresie.

And for his Nobility,And ordering his Nobility. as they were antient, so, and oft-times in former feuds, had suckt in with their nursing, a very proud conceit of their greatness and power, (such as it was) among their parties of Kindred, or otherwise allied, or won by kindness to their Tenants, which evermore had a mixture of some cuning, not less to be considered than in other Peers of neighbouring Nations, I mean, the English and French, with whom that Nation had great interest.

To keep those (I say) his own Peers in Peace, out of the sad experience of former Times, intestine Divisions, (not occasioned as in some other Dominions, from their several changes and quarrels to Sovereignty, or Title to a Crown) but always from private faction of their own; to which, either party pretended [Page] the Sovereigns safety; to settle and secure their own pretensions, by possessing of the Regents, for so heretofore they hurried his Parents, his Protectors and Him, from Post to Pillar.

And therefore he preferred such as had been faithfull to his Predecessours,He preferred faithfull servants near his person. Bazilicon Doron, and to the safety of him, in his minority (a Rule of direction herein he markt out to his Son) keeping such, (notwithstanding) under his elbow, with places of Judicature or Offices of honor, so to divert them and their interest abroad.

And having for some years thus settled his Kingdom,and disposing himself for his Succession. he began more particular to look upon himself, and to consider his near relation to the Crown of England, which he long lookt for, and warily expected, well knowing (through his undoubted right) the jealousie of Princes, upon their Successours, they too hastily coveting that, which long delay might breed to impatience: and it fell upon Him, with as much fear, as upon any Heir that our Histories can parallel, in all the Factions and Interests of neighbour Princes, wisely how to guide himself, as an accountant to the Kingdom of England.

For Q. Elizabeth, Q. Elizabeth not willing to publish her Successor. after her settlement here, held it a Maxime of policy, not to publish her own Pedegree, which must draw down the Scots Line to the absolute necessity of succeeding: and yet to ballance the French, and to keep up her power over the Scots, she took upon her to meddle in all their affairs, and so to tamper with their Factions, as not to suffer the Scots Queens and others Regents there, to get to great power, which the French endeavoured mightily to promote: and therefore Maries head was the sooner strook off, to remove the dangers, and make Queen Elizabeth of more absolute authority in that Nation, which she was not over-nice to take upon her.

But to amuze them and the world besides, she was ever busie with Suters, to make all men believe, she meant to marry; which had the King opposed by any cunning whatsoever, (if understood by Her) he might not so easily have come to this Crown.

And truly, whether his virtue and goodness (more remark in Him than usual in Princes) guided him in that, to depend onely upon the providence of God, for his Birth-right, or that his policy, under hand, wrought him any advantage; certainly, the Success must crown the Work, to admiration.

For, though he might not despise honest and honourable advice in such correspondence as was necessary under hand, with the Counsellours of Queen Elizabeth, to secure himself, for the time to come; yet, we reade not of any that came to light, or so much (in her days) as private suspition.

The Reign and Death OF KING IAMES, OF Great Britain, France, and Ireland, the First, &c.

[Page]

SO then,Q. Elizabeth dies. in a seasonable conjunction of things and time, he succeeded Queen Elizabeth, who departted this life on Thursday the 24th of March, 1602. at her Manour-house of Richmond, early in the morning, that day being fatal to Henry 8. and to all his Children, dying on Thursdays: and her Funerals sumptuously solemnized with all speed in April following.

The same day the Lords Spiritual and Temporal assembled,King James proclamed, and having proclamed her Death, and the Right and Title of King Iames to succeed her, being lineally expressed from Margaret eldest Daughter to Henry 7th. and Elizabeth his Wife, who was eldest Daughter to Edward 4th. and married to James 4th. King of Scotland, in the year 1503. (just a hundred years since) who had issue James 5th. Father to Mary the First, and Mother to this King James the Sixth, now 36. years of age, and so long King of Scotland.

Then they poast Letters to the King by the hands of Sir Charls Percy Brother to the Earl of Northumberland,and Letters sent to him. and Thomas Somerset Son to the Earl of Worcester, signifying the Death of their late Sovereign betwixt two and three of the clock that morning. And knowing his Right of Succession, they have made Proclamation thereof at Westminster, White-hall, and Cheapside Cross: and seeing they remain a Body without a Head, they humbly desire his M [...] jesty to hasten, how soon, and in what manner he pleaseth.

And therein complain (as in publick) that Sir Robert Cary poasted from hence towards your Majesty, contrary to their consent and command, thereby as much (as in him lay) to prevent and anticipate their duty and respect.

[Page] They acquaint the King of a fleet of ten ships royall,Anno 1603. ready furnished for the Coast of Spain, under Command of Sir Richard Lawson, whose Commission no [...] ceasing, by the Queens death, they desire his Majesties pleasure, whether they shall guard the Narrow Seas, or be c [...]lled to the Coast of Scotland as a Convey, for the Kings use. Dated in London. And therefore Robert Leigh Maior Signed first.

But as in this letter, so it goes in Common report, that Cary (let out by his father Hunsdon Lord Chamberlain) came first to the King upon his own score; But secretary Cecills secret Packquets went before him or these letters, or else he had little credit in his own Commands.

The King communicates these letters to his Lords,The King returns them thanks. and returns them his acknowledgment of their dutifull affections. He confirms for the present all Offices Civil, & Martial, as at the Queens death, til his farther pleasure. Dated the 28. and 31. of March, which the Lords heer proclaim, the 5. of April after.

And though the King sets forth his interest, of succession commanding both Nations in unity of duty to him, and brotherly affection to each other,Borderers executed. yet did the Scots Borderers make Inrodes into England, which was severely punished, and all for Example executed to death.

The King orders his Journey the 5. of April, the Queen to follow 20. da [...]es after, Prince Henry, Duke Charles, and Princess Elizabeth, at further pleasure.

Brings with him those of the greatest birth and most interest in the blood royall,The King sets out for England. who though farr enough off to follow after his Numerous issue, of a teeming fruitfull Consort, yet too neer to be trusted at home. And each one of them begat trouble and charge upon him, ever after, to reward, or to raise them up, beyond any desert; in both, he was wisely regarding.

Those were Lenox,With his Lords.Hamelton, Arguile, Mar, Kinloss, and Lord Hewm, and a couple of Knights Sir George Hew [...] and Sir Iohn Ramsey, of neer affection with the King. So it became his future security & advantage, to caress those, that ushered him in and had underhand merited somewhat, from former very late advise and Intelligence, how to correspond with his jealous Predecessor; we may conceive those then in being, (for most of the old Ones, out-liv'd not that their policie) were the Howards, and Percies, and Caecils.

The first of them of high birth and former merit, the Linage of the late Duke of Norfolk, Howards. who suffered under the Axe for his affection to this Kings Mother, as aforesaid anno 1569. And his brother Henry Howard with the Lord Cobham, were the first of Eminencie, that met the King at Barwick.

The last,Caecil. of great wisdom, and experience, for the Kings [Page] urgent affairs to make proper use of.

And at York, Thomas Cecil, Lord Burghley, President of the North, receives him, who comes on with his Train, and needed no other Guard,At York met by the President of the North. than the affections of the People that hurried him forward, with Excessive Acclamations; soon forgetting (as the manner of the Multitude) their late Sovereign, in the hope of a likelyer change in a King, with which for many years, this Nation had been really unacquainted.

And so was He feasted by the way freely,A Notable P. esent. at each Residence of his Person where he lodged, untill he came unto Godmanchester, in the Country of Northampton, where they presented him with 70. Teem of Horses, fairly traced, unto as many new Ploughs in honor of Tillage; A Custome very antient, when their Sovereigns pass that Town, being his Tenants, and holding their land by that Tenure. The King told them, He liked their ayre so well, and took their gift so kindly, as (but for undoing such good people, in their bounty) to visit them often; which afterwards he performed (that Custome being but for the first time) to the comfort of that Town and County.

At Broxborn his next Gest, The grand Officers meet the King. there met him the gravity of the greatest Officers; Egerton Lord Chancellor, Buckhurst Lord Treasurer, Howard Lord Admiral; with the most of the Council and Nobility; At Ware the King came to Wiggen, heretofore so base a Cottage, as begat a saying, If a Man would answer the Asker as in despair,Wiggen. That it should be granted, when as the King comes to Wiggen.

And at Theobalds, Theobalds. Counsellors sworn, the seat of Sir Robert Cecil, Secretary of State, he stayes for four dayes Entertainment, where were made of his Council these Scotish Lords, Lenox, Mar, Hew [...], Elphington, and Kinloss.

And of English, Henry Howard and his Nephew Thomas Howard, And Knights made. brother and sonne to the late Duke of Norfolk; and 28. Knights-Bachelors dubbed.

The Name Knight is from Knecht a German word, an Institution of dignity,De moribus Germanorum. by that Noble and ancient Nation. Tacitus saies, the manner was not for any to take Arms, before the State allowed him sufficient; and then some one of the Princes, or the father of the young-man (termed Knecht) furnished him with a Shield and a Javeline, The dignity of a Knight. (as the Romans did virili toga) the first honor done to youth, and afterwards, members of the Common-weal. This being the first and simple manner of Creation, they were afterwards styled Bachelour Knights. Baccalarius, quia olim coronabantur lauro cum baccis. Vel potius, quia Bedellus ipsis aureum baculum ex [...]ibebat cum ad concilia irent. Vnde primus gradus in professione scientiarum est Baccalauri; secundus Licentiati;[Page]ultimus doctores. Indeed as he is; so Baccalaureus, or Batalareus dicitur is Miles, qui jam semel praelio sive Bataliae interfuit, collatis signis, et manum cum hoste conseruit. And thus for the Name.

Their dignity was from serving on Horse-back, so the Italian call them Cavaileiri, the French chivalier, the Germanes Roisters, all of riding, the Latines equites aurati; for properly being created with sword and girdle, guilt spurs were added, for more necessary Ornament. The original dignity was given to Marshall men; but since, in all Nations, it is bestowed on men of peace and merit; the better, (in civile policie) to level the service at home, with that abroad. Tullie sayes, Parva sunt foris arma, nisi est consilium domi. And of late, his dignity is called dubbed, because the man kneels down, and the Sovereign lightly layes a sword upon his shoulder, saying sois chevalier nome de dieu, and afterwards he sayes Avances chevalier.

It seems to be done as it were upon the sodain, in the field; and thereupon are called in our Law Miles, a militia. But the King may do it by Patent; And though the first in Title by Institution, yet are they the last in degree of honor, which dies with them.

There had been anciently another degree of Knight-hood made by the General, under the Kings standard in the field, called Banneret; but he was [...]eacefull, and so none of them were made in his time. See after Knights Baronets, and Knights of the Garter.

Being come to London▪ his first Reception was at the Charter-house, The King comes to Charter-house in London and creates Honors the then Habitation of Thomas Howard (lately made Lord Chamberlain) for four dayes, where 80. Gentlemen were Knighted, from thence in private to White-Hall, and then by water to the Tower of London the 11. of May 1603.

During his Journey hither, prisoners were set at liberty out of the Tower, and amongst others, Accessaries to Essex Treason, was Henry Wriothsly the third Earl of Southampton, made Barons by Henry the eighth, and Earls by Edward the sixth. And this man, by King Iames made afterwards Knight of the Garter, a Privy Counsellor, and Captain of the Isle of Wight, Thomas his son now Earl of Southampton 1654.

Heer at the Tower He creates divers Barons. Barons created. Sir Robert Caecil Baron of Essenden, Sidny of Peshnurst, Lord Knowles of Grayes, Lord Wotton of Morley. And dubbs eleven Knights.

The King had knowledg of the death of Iames Beaton in France, Arch-Bishop of Glascow; Beaton Arch-Bishop of Glascow dies in France. he had been consecrate Bishop at Rome 1552. and not induring the reformation of the Church, forsook Scotland, and conveyed with him to France, all the evidences of that See of Glascow, the Ornaments and Reliques of that Church, the Image of Christ in beaten gold, and of the Apostles in silver (not over large you may believe.) And being [Page] there Queen Mary setled her Lieger Ambassadour, when she returned to Scotland. And so continued, untill the Government of the Regents who deprived him, whom the King afterwards restores, and imployes him in Ambassies to France, being wise and faithfull to his Mother. He by Will leaves all to pious uses, for benefit of Scotish-men Scholars, and consigned the Utensils of Glasgow into the hands of the Carthusians of Paris, untill Glasgow becomes Romish.

Iohn Spotswood at the Kings elbow, was soon preferred thither, and sent with the Lords to fetch the Queen.Queen Ann sent for. But she resolved to bring the Prince along with her self, and being refused by the friends of the Earl of Mar, til order from the King, incensed her into a sickness, and to recover her, the King humoured her willfulness, and sent home the Earl of Mar from England, to present her with her son; but continues her anger to be debarred her desireHer desire to seize the Prince See 1595. pa. 183. by such a subject, whom mortally she hated (as you have heard heretofore) and though the King sought to sweeten her with his letters, That he ascribed his peacable reception in England unto his wisdom and late Negotiation, The Queen in fury replyed, That she had rather never see England, than be beholding to him.

Whether in Malice or other defign, It was remarkable, Her studious intent, to seize the Prince to her self.

And so she set forward with him and the Princess Elizabeth, who by the way, was left to the Government of the Lord Harrington. But Charles Duke of York an Infant, and sickly, came not til next year after.

The Earl of Rutland was sent in Commission to the King of Denmark, The Garter sent to the King of Denmark. to present him with the honor of the Garter, and to Baptize his first son.

And Sir Henry Wootton Lieger to Venice. He was called from his private travels at Venice; Sir Henry Wootton sent to Venice. formerly known to the King, an Emissary from the Duke of Tuscane into Scotland, to forwarn him of a Treason against his Person. And was now sent again thither, Leonardo Donato being then Duke; with whom and the Pope Paul the first,The Pope and Senate at Variance. hapened two Contests; For restraint of Lay Persons donatives unto Church-men of lands or goods without License; for so becoming Ecclesiastick they were exempt from taxes.

The other was, The imprisoning an unchast Abbot and a Canon, being conceived a diminution of the Papal Power, who therefore excommunicates the whole Republick. They fly to King Iames by their own Ambassadour here, and by Messengers and Letters; disputing their priviledges with the Popes power, which was thus weakened by exceeding it; and so they obtained Absolution, with much adoe, but not untill the report was, that the whole Senate would turn Protestants. [Page]Wootton continued at Venice near twenty years, with some Returns and Messages extraordinary: this Donato being the fourscore and eleventh Duke of Venice, successively, from Anno 697. having been a Republick long before, and governed by Tribunes.

In Iuly was solemnly performed the Rites of St: George at Windsor, St: George's Feast ar Windsor. where were installed these Knights of the Garter, the Prince Henry, Duke of Lenox, Earl of Southampton, Earl of Mar, Earl of Pembroke.

This most honourable Order of the Garter was instituted by Edward the third,Order of the Garter. after he had obtained many great Victories, (K. Iohn of France, K. Iames of Scotland, being then Prisoners in the Tower of London, and King Henry of Castile the Bastard expulst, and Don Piedro restored by the Prince of Wales, (called The black Prince) did upon some weightier occasion, no doubt, than a Ladies Garter, erect this Order, Anno 1350. The Emblems are a Blue Garter to be worn daily, buckled on the left Leg, set with Gold or Pearl in these words, [Honi soit qui mal y pense,] Shame take him that evil thinketh. This Order is inferiour to none in the World, consisting of six and twenty Martial and Heroical Nobles, the King of England the chief, the rest are either Nobles of this Nation, or Princes of other Countreys, Friends and Confederates. Emperours and Kings have desired and received that Honour. The [...]e are depending this Order six and twenty poor Knights, with sufficient maintenance. The Officers were, the Prelate of the Garter, (which is inherent to the Bishop of Winchester, for the time being) the Chancellour, the Register, (always the Dean of Windsor) the principal King at Arms, (called Garter) and the Usher, (called the Black Rod) The site of this College is the Castle of Windsor, with the Chapel of St: George erected by Edward the third, and the Chapter-house there also. The Protector-Saint (olim tam nobilis) is St: George, whose Picture on horse-back, killing the Dragon, doth always hang at a Blue Silk Ribband, about each Knights neck. And the outward Vestment or Cloak hath a Star embroidered in Silver, encompassing a Shield bearing the Red Cross of England, with the Garter about it. This I mention, lest it be forgotten to after ages.

Amongst sundry men of valour in antient days was George, Of St: George's story. born at Coventry in England, his Mother with childe of him, dreamed, that she conceived with a Dragon, which should be the cause of her death, but the Wizards (Witches) assured her to die in childe-bed of a Son, whose life and fortune shall be a mirrour to posterity; and therefore he was brought up with a Person of Honour, with great observance, which made him capable of mighty deeds in Arms: and being famous for several Adventures, [Page] travelled to a place infested with wilde beasts, chiefly a ravenous Dragon, whom the Sorcerers pretended so far to inchant, as to be for ever satisfied with a virgin Salve, fastened to a Rock, and fitted for Sacrifice.

In whose defence George fights on horse-back, with his Lance and Sword, and by his skill and force, kills him: this service done, he missed not the Merit of his Reward, Mariage with the Maid; instructed her in Christianity, with whom he lived honourably, and died sainted for his virtues and valiant acts; and by the Kings of England assumed for many Ages, in warlike Atchivements of Honour, to be their Patron.

This story not difficult for the Moral, which served those times to instruct the ignorant with such Tales, to be told to posterity; that the Christian Souldier in the warfare of the World, meets with Satans temptations, which by the grace of God sanctifying are overcome; and in particular [...]escues his own soul, bound under the chains of sin, to be devoured of the Devil, and which being redeemed by the merits of Christ, is maried to Him in faith, and becomes an eternal Saint in Heaven.

Whether this Saint and his story (with others) were invented to cousen men, these Tales wrought much with valiant men at Arms; Valour swels, when set out by Examples of Extremes, and oft times goes beyond her self in her atchivements; conceit sometimes does things above conceit, especially when the imagination apprehends them founded in Religion.

It is said by Matthew Paris, in Gulielmo secundo, pag. 57. that St: George appeared in the air with an Army of white Horses, fighting for the English at Antioch against the Turk. But to say, there was no such Saint, and to change all literal sense into an Allegory of Christ and his Church; yet it may seem more improbable, that our English Nation, amongst so many Saints that were, would chuse one to be their Patron that was not at all, especially seeing the World in that Age had rather a glut than a famine of Saints.

The intent of those times was pious, to gain credit, and to convert to Christianity; but then, so to prosecute it, as the Papists still continue to do, must be condemned, thinking to grace the Gospel by such absurdities; for Heaven has a Pillory to punish fraus pia her self: and indeed, better to leave Religion to her native plainness, than to deck her with counterfeit dress.

And there were created at Windsor these Earls, Earls created at Windsor. Thomas Howard Earl of Suffolk, Montjoy Earl of Devonshire; and of Barons, Egerton Baron Elsmore, Russel Baron Thornhall, Danvers Lord Danvers, Hist. Gr. Brit. p. 7. Grey Baron Grooby, Peters Baron Writtle, Harington Baron Eaton, which so troubles an Historian, as a wonderfull [Page] weakness in a King, and concludes against his own Argument, [Nothing more destruction (says he) to Monarchy than lessening the Nobility] But he means, increase of number lessens their value; and hath not enlarged his reading, by knowledg of their condition in other Monarchies, Spain, France; and yet poor enough in those places where Anarchy as yet is not come in.

Originally within this Kingdom,Of Earls their dignity. Earldoms of Countreys (in the antient English-Saxon Government) were Dignities of Honour, and Offices of Justice; they had Officers under them, as Vice-comes or Sheriffs.

The Earls therefore received Sallary, the third penny of the profits of the County, of long time after the Conquest, and were inserted in their Patents of Creation, which afterwards were turned into Pensions.

Of the single Earls (not Palatine) there were two kindes, subdivided into several Branches, either take name of a place, or without place; those of a place, are of two kindes, either of a County, as the Earl of Devonshire, Cornwall, Kent, &c. or else of some place not being a County, as of a Town, Castle, Honour, &c. of which later sort, as antient as the Conquest, those of Richmond in Yorkshire, Clarence in Suffolk, Arundel in Sussex.

Earldoms without any place, are likewise of two kindes, either in respect of Office, as Earl Marshal of England; or by Birth, and so are all the Kings Sons; and therefore it is a mistake to say, They are born but Gentlemen.

Earls are adorned with a Cap of Honour and a Coronet, and the Body with a Robe, in resemblance of Counsellours, and are girt with a Sword, to defend their King and Countrey, Cook 17. Part. And are called by the King, his Cosins, and his Title is afterwards become parcel of his Name, and so they sign T. Suffolk.

Not to speak of Barons by Prescription or Tenure.Barons their dignity. These Barons were made by Patent, as others are by Writ to Parliament; and these by Writ were devised not before 49. Henry 3. for want of Peers, the most of them slain in the Barons Wars.

Those Barons by Patent began by Richard 2. John Beauchamp being the first, and is now limited in descent, according to the Habendum, for Life, or for term, of others, as Estates in Tail. They being thus entered into Nobility, have large Privileges as Peers of the Realm.

Note, that there be Lords in Reputation, onely by curtesie of Speech, not de jure, nor have privilege as Lords of Parliament, and these are the Son and Heir of a Duke, called an Earl, his eldest Son a Baron, but not in Pleadings; and so of Daughters, stiled Ladies, by curtesie onely.

On Saint Iames his day in Iuly the King and Queen were crowned at Westminster in that fatal Chair The King & Q [...]een cr [...]wned at W [...]stminster in that [...]. of Sovereigns anointing; [Page] in it remains a large blackish Stone, Jacob's Pillow, (say the Scots) in his Ladder Dream of the Messias from his Loins; and indeed so ceremonious he was then, that he sacrificed thereon, naming it Domus Dei; and in his Return from Laban forgat not thereon to pay his Vows; in which esteem, he conveyed it with his R [...]licks, in his general remove to Egypt; but from thence the Israelites flying in haste, and pursued, they (it seems) left th [...]s Monument behinde; and one Gathelus wedded to Pharaoh's Daughter (though a stranger, observant of the Hebrews Rites) transported it to Galicia, (of his name Port-Gathelick) thence by his Seed carried into Ireland, so by Ferguard sent to Penthland, (or Scotland) crowning their Kings thereon; And Edward 3. brought it from thence; Even then when grave Bards did sing that ancient Saw.

Ni fallat fatum, Scoti hunc quocunque locatum

Inveniunt Lapidem, regnare tenentur ibidem.

The Scots sall bruke that Ream as Naitiff Grund,

(Gif Wierds fail nocht) quhair eir this Chair is fund.

Another very ancient.

Post Iacobum, Iacobus, Iacobum, Iacobus quoque quintus,

At sextus Iacobus Regno regnabit utroque.

After a James sall be a James, a third James, and a fourth,

A fifth James also, but the sixth sall sway the Scepters both.

These are no conceits,Hist. Gr. Brit. p. 6. [commonly made up ere half-molded] for they were read many Ages before he or his abortive Book were born.

And with his Crown he taketh Oath,Coronation Oath. To keep and maintain the Right and Liberties of the Church; and shall keep all the Lands, Honours and Dignities, righteous and free of the Crown of England; and the Rights of the Crown decayed and lost, he shall call again (to his power) into the ancient Estate; shall keep the peace of the Church, of the Clergy and People, and do Equity and Iustice with discretion and mercy; shall hold the Laws and Customs of the Realm, and the evil Laws put out, to establish peace to the People▪ and no Charter to grant but by Oath. Abridgment Henry 8. Statutes.

This Ceremony ended, there were 24. Knights of the Bath invested, Knights of the Bath their manner of creation. who were received into White-hall in the evening, and supped together in one Room, sitting by degrees, with their Escocheons of their proper Arms placed above their Heads; they were lodged [Page] upon Pallats on the floor under their Arms, after they had been bathed in several Baths provided in Chambers; the next morning they were apparelled in Hermits weeds, and marshalled into Saint James's Park, with loud Musick, and the Heralds going before, and so about the Courts of White-hall, and then into the Chapel, with their Reverence before the Altar-table, and the Cloath of Estate (as at St: Georges Feast) they take their places in stalls, theirs Arms above, and hear Service. Then each Knight with his two Esquires offered at the Altar Pieces of Gold, and so retired in the former manner to their Chambers, and then adorned themselves with Robes of Crimson Taffata, with Hats and white Feathers, and so were conducted to the King into the Presence-chamber, under the Cloath of State, who girt each of them with a Sword, and had gilt Spurs put on their Heels, dined together, and so to the Even-Song at the Chapel, where they offered their Swords.

The next day in Robes of Purple Sattin, with Doctors Hoods on their shoulders, Hats with white Feathers, and so feasted again, and lodged that night as before, and the next day departed.

They are dignified and distinguished from other Knights, by a Medall of three Crowns of Gold, which is hanging at a Red Ribband, which they should wear about their necks during their life. These Knights are commonly Youths of the Sons of Noblemen or Nobless.

So now the King is established with all the Rites of Co [...]firmation in Honour and Love of his People,Digression concerning Imperial Rule. and may be ranked in competition with the most for the Western Monarchy, which had been hotly pursued by Henry 8. in opposition to France and Spain; about whose time the House of Austria settled into that Design.

And because we have left the King in joyfull solemnity, let us step aside out of the Court jollity, and seriously consider the cunning contrivances of neighbour Kings, heretofore for Imperial domination.

It was set on work, by union of Mariage in Charles the Grand-Child of Maximilian the Emperour, Emperour, of the House of Austria, and of Ferdinand of Spain, Spain. who being heir to them both, inherited also the Netherland, Arragon, Castile, Scicile, and the Indies. 1503.

And because Lewis of France, France, as great in power, stood in Competition, the other therefore, sought to Master it, by cunning inter-marriage with Charles and his daughter Claud, which was no sooner contracted, but as sodainly crackt, and He affianced to Mary the Daughter of Henry the seventh of England, and to whose sonne Arthur Ferdinand had married Katherin his youngest daughter. 1506.

This double union with England, England. encourages the other to [Page] break with France; but Arthurs death, and his father soon following, and they still afraid of France, clap up a fresh match with the widdow Katherin and Henry the eighth: and a Bull (subdated the Popes death) dispensed with it. 1510.

Henry the eighth left rich by his father, young and active, is put upon quarrels with France, that either Kingdoms might spend themselves in War, as they did in wonderfull designes; To whose assistance, the other interpose, with either party, and with inconstancy as the necessity of State-Interest intervened. But upon Maximilians death, the Emperial Crown falls in Competition of France and Spain.

Charles, Charl [...]s cunning. now put to it, seeks to get in with England, and acknowledges the fowl Inconstancies of his Predecessors towards Henry the eighth. In which he confesses, as he was involved, so his youth and duty then, tyed him more to Obedience than Truth, but now grown a Man and Himself, the mutual dangers of either, would give assurance for his part, where otherwise (he saith) single faith might mistrust.

Henry the eighth thus cousened into some kindness,Is made Emperour, both by his own power and purse, makes Charles Emperour, and the French King his Prisoner, 1519. And so his turn served, a peace is concluded with France, and the King of England (at whose charge all was effected) is left out, of any satisfaction. And to amuze him from revenge, intices Desmond to rebell in Ireland, and assisted Iames the fift of Scotland, with amunition and mony to buysie England at home, 1526.

And being in this height of Imagination, to have wrought wonders, in reducing the Election of the Popes from the Cardinals to the Emperour, set others to quarrel with the Pope also, who very hapily in the nick of time, confederates with the Italian Princes, with the French, and with Henry the eighth, as Caput foederis, But to little effect. and so Charles is forc'd to descend: and at a Treaty at Cambray, obliged to render some Pieces to the French, and so to sit still from open violence. The General safety of Christian Princes necessarily being involved in the danger.

But He begins again, and contracts to assist Henry the eighth for his Title to France; He tacks about with England. who no sooner entered into war, and recovered Bullen, but the Emperour concludes a perpetual peace with France, and joynt confederation for restoring the Catholick Religion, which was much declined of its lustre, by the protestation of Luther and others in Germanie; and soon after spread into all parts of Christendom.

Henry the eighth wearied with other mens designes, with vast expence of blood & treasure dies, and leaves all the glory of his good actions to this son Edward the sixth, who succeeds with no advantage by these, and with less money in his purse, whose [Page] wise Counsel, meddles the less with Spain, or France; but contracts onely Union with the German Princes, and other Allyes in confederation of Religion, that could best ballance the Emperours ambition.

His successor Mary, Queen Mary. Imbarks her body in mariage with Philip of Spain, and her Estate in war with France, and lost Calice into the bargain. 1558.

Queen Elizabeth Queen Elizabeth. comes to the Crown, and at the Treaty of Cambray, King Philip pretends to assist her in recovery of Calais, but his own turn served, he leaves her in the lurch, to work out her own safety; but under a feigned pretence of Mariage, wrought a stay of the Popes declaration against the Queen, grounding this favour, (no doubt) from his own fears, lest that a Union of France with Scotland, in the person of Mary the Mother of this King Iames, should Unite these three Kingdomes against him.

How equall soever Queen Elizabeth had been for peace or war, in her own nature; and her people humble, to follow her will in either; yet her course, more ambitious in ballancing Neighbour Princes from overgrowing, than apt to conquer others, carried her all her life, in defensive actions at home, and abroad, and so to impoverish her Enemies, but not to inrich her self; for by those courses King Iames found her Treasure exhausted, and the Estate of the House of Austria, in this Condition, when he came hither.

As for the French King, his Crown-demain exhausted,French interest and condition. which he endeavours to recover by Impositions; the people light enough, the Nobility prone to dismember upon every occasion, and so not easie to be governed, for the Sovereigns Designs or Interest; the Kingdom thereby the likelier to be cantonized by self-division, than to conquer others; yet their native wealth and variety of Objects preserve both King and people, to live secure from their mighty Enemy the Spaniards, even by the providence of chance. I speak as it was when King Iames came here.

He saw Germany upon an immoveable centre of self-greatness,Empire. governed with Bit and Bridle, by the Emperour, to do as he list with all the Princes; or they, by love or by fear, obeying.

And however the Danish King was so much of Kin,Dane. as to stick to his Brother King Iames's friendship, the benefit of his Sound, and unexhausting profit, able to second with Ships and Money and active undertaking; yet no doubt, if to be trusted unto, with all these helps, the King might find him wary, lest by strengthening a Neighbour, himself become overmastered: And indeed too wise in common actions, to intangle his Estate, being also in those daies not so absolute, [Page] to do of Himself, without leave of his people; what he hath done very lately against this State, in favour of the Dutch, he feels the smart, I need not repeat it.

The Swede Swede, incompassed with dangers and Enemies; the Pole pretending Title to that Kingdom; and in Arms they were for the wager; and defended barely enough, by the distance of Sea and Land between them. Be fi des, the Dane upon his back in all Advantages, to quicken the quarrel, though Providence since hath done wonders.

The Cantons Switz [...]rs. swoln big with pride and equality, divide themselves between two Monarches, France and Spain, that for each others ends, they are supported by them both, as their hired servants.

Italy Italy. distinguished into Principalities, yet bundled together by common caution, restrained of their freedoms, by force of French and Spanish; Multiply profit by strangers, and spare the pains to do it themselves; So by this narrow kind of wisdom, become all Merchants, and abused by the Conclave and Spain, as never to be Monarchal.

The Muscovite, Muscovite. from a Duke, grown big with a Timpanie of Titles, was kept under by the more huge and vast Enemy the Tartar, making Inrodes of barbarous Murther upon each other; without any Interest of Christian Princes, unless sometime, the Pole (at leasure) quarrels for the skirt of his Empire, as he did very lately, and prevailed.

Now whilst these Potentates lived, thus fettered within the narrowness of their Estates or Humours, Spain Spain the most Monarchall. managing the Popedom, by his power in the Conclave, and pensions to the Cardinals, seemed to give law to the Western part of the Christian world; His Mines of gold effectual, not only to carry on any design, with Fleets and Armies, where he had will or interest; But also to make way, where he list, by corrupting the Counsels and Actions of any King, with temptation and underminings, either by his purse, or the pates of Iesuits. So that in a word, he was now grown hard to be pleased, and dangerous to be offended.

Through all these Considerations King Iames King James Interest. comes in, to choose his Game, and through all these distempers abroad, he was to secure himself, and his new Inheritance. His safest way to take breath for the present, was to make peace with Spain first of all, and after with the rest; (which indeed were done together) presuming that being in his power so to do then, it should depend on his pleasure, to break off after, or to conserve it to his death, which he did.

And being a wise and wary Prince, rather solid than formal, having been well seasoned at home with practice, and broken [Page] to affairs abroad; therefore now freed from former Distempers, he began to search into the ground of his preceding miseries in Scotland: Of the consequences of War and Conquests. and well assured, where the Sword bears sway, Virtue and Fortune (the Guiders of the best of humane Action) do not always endure the lasting, no not of the memory of the Actors.

Here therefore He began to consider, what advance ambitious Princes lust after, for the present, when hazardous success hurls upon them miserable events.

He was not ignorant of the interests of Christian Estates, one with the other (as is said) and how it concerned them to caress him for his amity.

Amongst them all, whom to trust, he was not assured, and how to depend upon his new Inheritance without confederacy, might be the best Counsel, but the most difficult.

He therefore (to avoid difference with any) made Peace Peace and the [...]ff [...]cts. with all. And as a wise King lead them the way to do so, each with other, being the surest Maxime to himself, and to the foundation of greatness, upon popular love to his Subjects, to afford them ease and justice.

This Peace ever after attended his Age and Hearse, to which he always intended to fashion his Son and Successour; but in future, fate followed the change, not without our over-hasty exception, to the Fathers settlement, mistaking it to be the consequence of evil event in the Sons succession.

But we ought to know, that Events are always seated in the inaccessible Light of Gods high Providence;Of success in evil, and the consequence of good. and cannot be concluded but by supernatural Arguments, which must decide the miscarriages of pious Designs.

—careat successibus opto,

Quisquis ab eventu facta not [...]nda putet.

We may learn his will, by the effect of his works, but not in the consequence of his proceedings; we may discern the handwriting of his Decree to be his Character, but not thereby his Sense; yet this we presume to run and reade.

The Providence of God is often most violent to Reason, when yet in truth it runs in its proper chanel of equity to all. His way is in the Sea, not to be always traced by steps.

What confused conceits carry us on when a prevailing party succeeds in opposition to truth and justice? But he that looks thus asquint hath an imperfect sight, not the eye of faith.

The Scales of Gods Providence are never at rest, always moving; now up, now down; to humble, and to exalt; to which we must submit, because we cannot comprehend.

And it is a Rule derivative from hence, That where Religion is [Page]loo [...]est, men sacrifise their best Reason to visible Success; and private fortune becomes their publick Profession: not remembring what Isay, says, In the path of Gods judgment we should patiently expect. We do not so by our daily censure.

David was in this storm, driven to the strongest Anchor of Hope; in the contemplation of the wicked, he was much trouble, to see them prosper, and the godly persecuted; untill he entered into the Sanctuary of Gods universal providence, the chain whereof meets in the centre of all.

Reade but the story of some Centuries of our Christian world,Preface to the History of the World. abreviated in the Preface of Sir Walter Ralegh's History: How long was it, that wickedness had leave to lord it? With what strength of policy, the Tyrants of each time, sold themselves to settle the work of sin? And though in the period of that portion of time (compared with everlasting) and of our neighbour-affairs, (with the succeeds of the vast Universe) In these (I say) he religiously observes (perchance in some) the most notorious impieties punished and revenged, yet he could not live to finde the effects of Gods justice in so perfect an Audit, summ'd up, but that he, and we, and others hereafter, shall still remain perplext.

And here in order and time,Sir Walter Ralegh's Treason. we come to consider the tempers of the Court Statists; those in favour with their former Sovereign, had a new game to play with this King; and such as were kept under heretofore, began now to raise their hopes and endeavours, for fresh preferment.

Amongst many of sundry conditions,Court and Character of King James, p. 31. we fall upon the Conspiracy of a few Discontents;Hist. Gr. Brit. p. 4. and it is generally named Sir Walter Ralegh's Treason; so shadowed out to posterity by some late Relators, and huddled up in obscurity, as not many men in these days believe it for truth: to undeceive them, I shall give the world that story.

Sir Walter Ralegh was a Gentleman of good Alliance in the West of England, and very well descended;His birth and breeding. he began his Improvements by the University and Inns of Court; the later was always the place of esteem with Queen Elizabeth, which she would say, fitted youth for the future. But he staid not there: and as his fate would have him, of the Sword first, so destiny drew him on, to have a mixt Reputation with the Gown; for he was often called to counsel in her time, but never sworn.

He was twice in Expeditions of Land-service in Ireland, His Imployments. under General Norris and Grey, as also in the Low Countreys, and a Voyage at Sea, ere he was known at Court.

And such ways as these, were his introductions (the best hopes of his Risings) Some natural parts he had, a good wit and judgment, but his best Weapon was his Tongue, which gave [Page] him repute to be learned then, but after, he improved to more value in his future troubles, the best School to a wise man.

His quarrel with Grey in Ireland was there complain'd to a Council of War, Occasion of his preferment. but by Reference came over to England, to the Council-Table; Grey had the better cause, but Ralegh the advantage in pleading; which so took them, especially Leicester, that the Queen was told the Tale, and more of him; which begot esteem from her, and envy from others; however, he held up, being accounted a cunning Courtier, in that ticklish Trade, whereof, he that once breaks, seldom sets up again; but he got by those losses, and thriv'd best after such compounding.

Indeed, being still under-wood, Envied in Cour [...]. cut, and yet growing, he became, Silva caedua quae succisa renascitur, and so flourished oft times after, without absolute impute to his Princes pleasure. His Enemies of greater Rank kept him in and out, which made him then to decline himself out of the Court-rode; in Voyages to the West Indies, Guiana, New Plantations, Virginia; or else in some Expeditions against the Spaniard, which confirm'd him a grand Opposer of the general Peace which King Iames brought in, and that brought Ralegh to his ruine.

He rose no higher than Governour of Iersey, His Preferments Lord Warden of the Stanneries of the West, and Captain of the Queens Guard; which last Place brought him to esteem at Court, but not in the State at all:by the Queen. and therefore most men of parts that want of their pride of Preferment, are tired with lingring expectation of change, from the settled way of Sovereignty; which in every shift of Princes gives fair hopes to many, neither so mean nor modest, but to please themselves with Objects of Advance: So this man, ambitious of his conceited merits, put himself forward, a little too soon.

Busie he had been heretofore, to speak his minde of the general affairs, and therein he pleased his late Mistress; for then, his inclination went with the humour of those times of War; but now, his counsel came out of season.

For, at the entrance of the King, he was presented by Ralegh with a Manuscript of his own making against the Peace with Spain: it was his Table-talk to beget more esteem, which took accordingly, and the way, to unbend him, was the work of the Spanish Faction; either to buy him out of that humour, or to abuse him into worse condition, which was effected by this way.

To mould him into Treason, there was a medley of divers conditions,His Conspiracy and manner of Treason. but the Contrivers were two Priests, Watson and Clark, and Count Arembergh Ambassadour Extraordinary for the Arch Duke, who brought in the Lord Cobham, and he his Brother, and the Parham, and others, and they the Lord Grey of Wilton: Then came in Sir Walter Ralegh, the wisest of them all, [Page] who dallied, like the Fly with the flame, till it consumed him.

Willing he was (it seems) to know it, and thought by his wit, to over-reach the Confederates whom he knew well enough, though none but Cobham, (for a good while) dealt with him; and with him Ralegh play'd fast and loose, till himself was caught in the Gin.

There was one Matthew de Laurencie Laurencie. here at London, but a Merchant of Antwerp, with whom Cobham held intelligence, for many years before, and for some Reasons of State, connived at, by the late Queen and her Council. This man, was the property, which Arembergh used to Cobham, who was now much discontented.

These three made the first step to the Contrivements, and it hath been my jealousie, (for I laboured the truth) that Laurencie betray'd it; I being often present with Sir Walter Ralegh in his Imprisonment, when he privately discoursed hereof.

But such Designs, like wounds, if they take air corrupt; their Project could not be covertly carried, consisting after wards of several persons of different tempers and unsuiting souls; and so, through the rifts and chinks of their several aims and ends, which could not be close jointed, the vigilancy of Cecil (perhaps) or other Counsellours of State▪ stole a glympse of their Design, apprehensive enough, to light a Candle, from the sparks of Arembergh's Discourse.

And being ripe, they were severally examined and restrained, no [...] without watchfull eyes on either; then to Imprisonment, and last to their Trials before the Lord High Steward and the Peers, at Winchester, whither the Term removed, out of this evermore Pestilential City.

And on the seventeenth of November, His Arreignment at Winchester. the Day of Arreignment for Ralegh, the Iury called to the Bar, against whose Persons he did not except, nor could, for they were his Pares, the most able sufficient of Middlesex, were the Fact had its Scene.

The Indictment was managed by the Attourney General Sir Edward Cook, His Inditement. Serjeant Heal, and Serjeant Philips, drawn from the ninth of Iune, 1603. June, 1603.

The Accusation double, against the King, and against the State; the personal had two parts,Two parts. against his life, and to disable his Title to the Crown.

To the first was read Brooks Confession, Brooks his confession. that his Brother Cobham used these Speeches, That it would never be well, till the King and his Cubs were taken away; and said, That he thought it proceeded from Ralegh.

Ralegh answered, That Brooks was his Enemy; it was replied, That Cobham was ever your Friend; and it would seem [Page]a strange malice in Brooks, to ruine his Brother, to undo you.

To the second part, there was produced a Book (which I have read) A Defence of the Queens Proceedings against Mary Queen of Scots: The Title could defend it self, but the matter therein meddled too much in a dangerous consequence, to the Kings Succession, and treasonable enough.

Cobham had confessed,Cobham's confession. That Ralegh delivered to him that Book, and he to Brooks, and Brooks to Grey, upon Cobham's discontent. Ralegh acknowledged, that it contained matter of scandal to the Kings Title; and that he had leave of Sir Robert Cecil (after his Fathers death) to look into his Study, for Cosmographical Manuscripts of the West Indies, and so lighted on this Book.

Cecil then present upon the Bench,Cecils speech, acknowledged this leave, and said, He would then, as really have trusted him, as any man, though since for some infirmities of Sir Walter, the bonds of affection were crakt; and yet, preserving his duty to the King, which may not be dispenced withall, he swore (By God) he loved him, and had a great conflict in himself, that so compleat a member had fallen from the State.

And this passage needs no soothing to excuse Cecil either Father or Son; for I have heard Sir Robert Cecil when he was Salisbury to say publickly at his own Table, that he had intercepted and kept all the considerable Libells against the late Queen and this King; but though justifiable in them as Counsellours of State, yet was it a crime in Ralegh, who never was any. And this Book, as I remember, was of one Brag or Crag a Iesuit. But Sir Walter excused all, That there was nothing acted thereby, to the Kings prejudice, for that Book was burnt, and others are in print.

But to insist hereupon, Cobham had confessed, that Ralegh had agreed, Cobham's confessions. that he should treat with Arembergh for six hundred thousand Crowns to advance the Title of the Lady Arabella to this Crown; that Cobham under pretence of travelling, should prosecute this Design in the Low Countreys, Flanders, France, and Spain; and to carry three Letters from Her to the Arch Duke, Duke of Savoy, and King of Spain; and to promise Toleration of Religion, and Her to be disposed of in Marriage; that at his Return, he should meet Ralegh at Jersey (the place of his command) and there to agree, how to dispose the money to Discontents; and Ralegh should have seven thousand Crowns from Arembergh to himself.

And further confessed, That Ralegh had instigated him to all these Treasons.

And that Ralegh should say, That the best way to trouble England, was to cause Division in Scotland.

To this onely of Scotland, Ralegh answered, and confessed [Page] the words, and that he had so thought these twenty years. It seems by the sequel since, in these our days, that he was not much mistaken.

Laurencie confessed,Laurencie's confession. To have delivered Leters from Arembergh to Ralegh, who presently with Cobham conferred thereof in private.

To all these, Ralegh craved,Ralegh desires his Accusers to be present. That Cobham might appear to accuse him face to face.

I may not omit this passage, that when the Confederates had suffered under some Examination, and restrained to their several Houses; and Ralegh well knowing that Laurencie was suspected,Ralegh at first discovers Laurencie. but not examined, then did Ralegh discover in a Letter to Sir Robert Cecil, where Laurencie was in secret with Cobham, and to advise to apprehend him, and so to intercept their intelligence, whilest matters were ripe.

What Ralegh's Design was herein, is not imagined, but this use was made of it, to Ralegh's ruine; for, after that Cobham had denied much of the former stuff, upon his first Examinations, this Letter was shewed to him, under Ralegh's hand; then Cobham in an extasie, railing against Ralegh, delivered his positive Accusation of him, as is before mentioned, and added, that after Ralegh's first Examination before the Lords, he writ to Cobham, That although he had been examined of many matters, he had cleared Cobham of all: when (as the Lords protested) he had not been at all examined concerning Cobham: and thereby this was inferred (by the Council) to confirm Cobham, to deny all, when he should be examined.

Sir Walter said, That Cobham had not signed his Accusation, and that he was at the worst, but singularis Testis.Cobham singularis testis.

To which the Lord chief Iustice gave it for Law, that it was not necessary for either.

After much pleading, Ralegh urging Law and Scripture, for not admitting a single witness, to condemn, yet the Court was satisfied by the Iudges, to the contrary.

Then said Ralegh, Prove it by one witness, face to face, and I will confess my self guilty.

But the Iudges were of opinion, not to admit that neither; yet Ralegh insisted thereon with many stories and Presidents, which took up much time.

But being asked, Will you be concluded, if Cobham should justifie his Accusation, under his hand.

To this it may be observed, that Ralegh made no Answer at all, knowing his guilt, but consented that the Iury should consult.

The Kings Council being to speak last,Cobham's last Letter condemned Ralegh. they produced Cobham's Letter, under his hand, writ but the day before. In effect thus:

[Page]That Sir Walter had writ a letter to him, wrapt in an Aple, and cast in at his window in the Tower, ten daies since, to intreat him for Gods sake to write to him under his own hand, that he had wronged him in his accusations; advising him to be constant in denials, rather than to appeal to the King.

And now (writes Cobham) It is no time to dissemble, and therefore protested, before God and his Angels, that all and every part of his accusation of Sir Walter Ralegh, was substantially true, and added that Ralegh had delt with him, since the Kings coming, to procure him a pension from Spain, for Intelligence.

Then Ralegh rayl'd at him,Ralegh desires his Answers to be read. confessed that letter, and produced Cobhams Answer, desiring it might be read; which the Attorny Cook opposed, to whom Caecil replyed, Sir, you are more peremptory than honest, come you hither to direct us? and so read it, which in effect was a Confession, That he had wronged Ralegh, and that he was Innocent. This bore date ten dayes before.

And here Ralegh confessed, that Cobham had offered to him a Pension from Spain, and that he had concealed it, as loth to ruine Cobham.

Then the Iury went out and returned in half an hour their verdict Guilty, So was sentence as in case of Treason, and he returned to the Tower, where he lay reprieved 12. years. And three years after that, was executed in October 1618.

Two dayes before Ralegh tryal,Tryalls of the [...]st. were sentenced these; Brook, who only excused his intentions, meerly to try faithfull Subjects, and said he had a Commission so to do, but produced none.

Markham confessed the Inditement, pleaded discontent, and desired mercy. Watson confessed he had drawn in all the rest, holding the King to be no Sovereign, til he were crown'd, instancing in Saul, and Ieroboam▪ Clark said the like.1 Sam. 9.

Parham and Brooksby were acquitted by the Jury.

Watson, Clark, and Brook, executed.

Markham, Cobham, and Grey, brought severally upon the Scaffold to die, and at the instant on the Block had their particular executions remitted by a letter to the Sheriff under the Kingsown hand, without the knowledge of any person, but Master Gibb of the Bed-Chamber, that brought it.

The warrant was directed to Titchburn high Sheriff of Hampshire, The Kings Letter of Reprieve for three of them. for staying execution of the late Lord Cobham, Lord Grey, and Sir Gr. Markham at Winchester. 1603.

Although it be true that all vell-governed and flourishing Kingdomes and Common-wealthis aire establishid by Iustice, and that these two Noblemen by birth that aire now upon the point of Execution, aire for thair treasonable practices condamned by the law, and [Page] adjudget voorthy of Execution thairof to the Ex [...]mple and terror of otheris; The one of thaim, having filthily practiced the overthrow of the q [...]hole Kingdom, and the other for the surprize of our owin Person, yet in regaird that this is the first year of our raign in this Kingdom, and that never King was so far obleished to his people as ve have been to this, by our entry here vith so hairty and general an applause of all sorts; Amonc quhom all the Kinne friends and allies of the saidis condamnd parsonis, vaire as fordurat and duetifull as any other our good Subjects, as also that at that very time of thair arraignment none did more freely and readily give thair assent to thair conviction, and to deliver thaim into the handis of Iustice then so many of thair neerest Kinsmen and allies (as being Peeris) vaire upon thair Iury, as likevaise in regard, that Iustice hath in some sort gotten course already by the Execution of the two Priests and George Brook that vaire the principal plotteris and intisaris of all the rest, to the imbracing of the sadis treasonabill Machinations; ve thairfore (being resolved to mix Clemenie with Iustice) aire contented, and by theise presentis command you our present shief of Hampshiere to superseid the Execution of the sadis two Noblemen, and take them back to thair prison again qwhile our further pleasure be knowin. And since ve vil not have our Lawis to have respect to personis, in sparing the great and strikking the meaner sort, It is our pleasure that the like course be also taken vith Markham, being sory from our hairt, that such is not only the hainous Nature of the sadis codamned personis crime, but even the corruption is so great of thair natural disposition, as the care ve have for the safety and quiet of our state and good subjectis vil not permit us to use that clemencie towardis thaim quhich in our owin natural inclination ve might vary easely be perswadit unto.

Iames Rex.

However the King was me [...]cifull, yet an evil fate followed them.

Grey died in the Tower, the last of his line.

Cobham, Markham and others, were afterwards releast imprisonment, but died miserable poor.

And Ralegh fifteen years after lost his life by the Axe for this Treason. See. 1618.

I have been the more prolixe against our Adversaries, Court and Charact. p. 35. Hist. Great Brit. p. 4. that thereby the world may judg with the Jury, of his Guilt, or innocencie.

How could Wade, the Lieutenant of the Tower, Observations of the Tryall. who was alwaies esteemed honest, tamper with Cobham to write his Name to a Blank, to which Wade framed an accusation against Ralegh, when it appears Cobham never signed at all to any, which therefore [Page] Ralegh insisted upon, for his advantage in the tryal.

But in truth, (besides the confessions) His fatal evidence was Cobhams own voluntary last letter overnight, writ every whit with his own hand.

The King commanded (as the Court was assured at his tryal) that no Examinant should be wrackt, which made Captain Kemish (the Emissary between them) to protest afterwards in my hearing, that in truth he was threatned with the wrack, which was shewed to him, and that had he tasted thereof, it should have inforced him, to tel an odd tale, meaning of guilt.

Sir Walter was admitted a chair, pen, Inck, paper, and truly he rather tired the Court and Jury with Impertinences, though he spoke well.

Not much to remind what we have said concerning the humours of the Presbyterians, Presbyterians perplez the King. so throughly canvased in all our Scotish discourse. Yet at this time, they renew their former wont, as in Scotland, and begin to perplex the King at his Entrance.

To pacifie such, He appoints a Conference, to be held with the Episcopacie, and Them, at Hampton Court. In the mean time to let them see what they should trust unto, he sets forth a Proclamation,

Against such as seditiously seek Reformation in Church Matters;Proclamation against them. And that the Constitution and doctrine here, is agreeable to Gods word, and near to the Condition of the primitive Church. And forewarnes them of publick invectives, gathering of Subscriptions to supplications for Reformation, savouring of Tumult, sedition, and violence; Protesting to preserve the Estate Ecclesiasticall as politick, in such form as he found it: Reforming abuses, if they be made apparent. 14 Octob. 1603.

But in truth these men were too hasty, and might well remember the King of such their behaviour in Scotland, which to prevent, he did for ever after advance the power of Episcopacie there, to even that Discipline with this in England, and to inlarge their Bishops into some Eminencie, heretofore clowded with Envy and Malice.

It was now time so to do, when the Presbyterian Doctrines had amplified into these Heads.

The Reformation of Religion belongs to the Cominaltie.

The punishment of such Crimes,Knox to the Cominaltie. fol. 49. as touching the Majesty of God,Knox. apeal fol. 30. doth not appertain to Kings and chief Rulers only, but also to the Body of the People.

Princes, for just causes may be deposed.

If Princes be Tyrants, Knox. Hist. pag. 372. fol. 78. their subjects are freed from their Oath of Obedience.

Populo jus est,Buch. de jure. Regni. p [...]. 13. ut imperium cui velit, deferat.

[Page] Penes populum est ut leges ferat, sunt Reges veluti Tabulariorum Custodes.

The people have the same power over the King,pa. 25. as He hath over any Person.

It were good, that rewards were appointed by the people,38. for such as should kill Tyrants. 40.

The People may arraign their Prince. 62.

The Minister may excomunicate Him. 70.

He that by excomunication is cast into Hell, is not worthy of Life upon Earth.

Objections to some of their Doctrines, with their Answers.

Custome is against such dealing with Princes.Buch d [...] jure Regni pa. 49.

Answ. Nothing more dangerous to be followed than Custome.

Ob. We must obey Kings be they good or bad.Knox. apeal fo. 26.

Ans. It is blasphemy to say so.

Ob. Jeremie commanded obedience to Nebuchodonozer.

Ans. The Example is but singular.Buch. de jure regni pa. 53.

Ob. God placeth Tyrants sometimes for punishment of the People.pag. 57.

Ans. So doth he private then sometimes to kill them.

Ob. The Iewes dealt not so with their Kings.

Ans. Their Kings were not first elected by the People,ibid. 57. but Ours have nothing but from the People.

Ob. Shew an Example out of Scripture.

Ans. Sundry good laws in divers Countries,ibid. 57. though no Example in Scriptures.

Ob. Saint Paul commands us to pray for Princes. Tim. 2.

Ans. We may punish Thieves,ibid. 57. and yet we ought to pray for them.

Ob. Saint Paul commands us to be subject and obedient to Princes. Tit. 3.

Ans. Paul writ in the Infancie of the Church, ibid. 50. 57. the Christian not ripe, nor rich for such a purpose; and if Paul were now alive, he would leave Kings to be punished by their Subjects, not to be accounted any longer King, &c.

These and many more such, not only held by Buchanan and Knox▪ but by their whole Consistorians beyond seas, as Calvin, Beza, Hitamor, Ursinius Vindicae contra Tyrannos, Eusebius Shiladephus, &c.

And now was their former proceedings in Scotland Examined according to their doctrines, for setting up their Co [...]sistorian Discipline.

The Parliament in Scotland 1560. being disolved, and their Book of Discipline compiled by Knox and others, which their [Page] favourites, notwithstanding termed but a devout [...]Imagination, yet they threatned the chiefest Noblemen, if they should reject it: some refused, but at last it was forced upon all.

They appoint their Assemblies,Knox. Hist. pa. 504. particular and general.

They exercise Jurisdiction, and cart Saunders for Adultry.

And excommunicate the whole Multitude about a May-pole. Declar. B. 1. 2.

They burn divers places (pretending of superstition) Bishops houses,Knox hist. p. 523. 527. Protestants also at Pasley, the Bishop hardly escaping life.

The very calling of Bishops,Knox Instit▪ 534. though Protestants became Antichristian, and command them (by their Authority) to leave their Offices and Iurisdiction.

That they should have no voices in Parliament,Declar. B. 2. and desire that such as themselves should send▪ might vote. Commanding the King and His Council, under pain of Excommunication, to appoint no Bishops hereafter, because the Brethren had concluded that estate unlawfull.

Beza, their Consistorian Patriarch from Geneva, Epistol. 79. had assured them of well doing, and moves them, Ne unqnam, &c. That they would never admit again that Plague (Bishops) although it might allure them of keeping Unity.

The Bishops being discharged,Declar. B. 3. they agreed of Superintendents; but that device was laid aside, and afterwards conclude, that Ministers of the word, should be equal; and then began the Presbytery to flourish.

For then they usurped the whole Ecclesiastical Iurisdiction, B. altering all lawes as they pleased,

They assembled the Kings Subjects,Act Parliament. injoyning Ecclesiastical pains,Cap. 4. unto them, make decrees, and execute them.

They Trayterously rail against the King in their Pulpits, and being questioned, utterly disclaim his Authority, as an Incompetent Iudge.

That the Pulpit matters,Declar. B. 3. were exempt from the Judgment, or correction of Princes; They prescribe lawes to the King and State. Appoint Fasts to the whole Kingdom, when their faction were to act any enterprize.

Anno 1582. The King to prevent the dangerous consequence thereof,Declar. 1582. divers of them were silenced and imprisoned, but what was the Issue? They surprize the King at Ruthen, and declare it to be done, for resisting the present dangers to Gods true Religion, and for removing from the King the chief Authors,

The King being afterwards released,Parl. 1584. Ca. 7. that act was adjudged Crimen laesae Majestatis, and some were hanged, others fled into England.

Yet afterwards 1585. They avow the same,Declar. 1585. and excommunicate such as would not subscribe to Them.

[Page] Another treasonable Attempt they had against the King at Sterlin, Anno 1583.

So that in the Parliament, 1584. the Kings lawfull Authority Ecclesiastical was confirmed,Cap. 2. the Bishops restored,3. and to be Treason for any man to procure diminution of the three Estates.

The Iudgments, Senates,4. and Presbyterian Iurisdiction discharged.

An Act made for calling in Buchanan's treasonable Book, 8. his Chronicle, and his Iure Regni apud Scotos.

That none shall preach, declame, confer, or utter scandalous words or slanders against the King or his Council, or to meddle in State-affairs, Sub poena, &c.

And because they did advance their Modell, as the most agreeable to the best and most Reformed Churches against Episcopacy, it was examined the numbers that refuse their Sanedrim, besides the Eastern and Western Reformers.

All in the Dutchy of Saxony, Brunswick, and Luxemburgh.

All those Churches in the Countreys of the Marquesites of Brandenburgh and Badu.

The Churches in the Earldoms of Henebergh, Lemings, Marisfeilt, Stalburgh, Renestern, Swatrenburgh, Wertenburgh, Hannaw, Oeting, Glick, and Leonstime.

All in the Baronies of Lenefergh, Schenburgh, and Wildenfield.

All the Churches of at least thirty free Cities, Many of whose Territories are as ample as Geneva, and yet none of them have received the Presbyterian Discipline.

Add to these, the remainder of the Albigenses and Waldenses in Piedmont in the parts adjoyning, or of the Taborites in Bohemia; the Lutheran Churches also in Poland, Denmark, and Swethland.

And indeed, Calvin and Beza both are sufficient Judges to prove, they were no Enemies to moderate Episcopacy, but onely against Romish Hierarchy. See Calvin de necessitate reformandae Ecclesiae, and Beza de grad. Minister. Evangel. 18. Sect. 3. Themselves well knowing that Episcopacy then did direct the guidance of grave and wise Over-seers, which otherwise would fall into Schisms, and after grow into Heresies.

These Items, and many more such, were put together, to set them forth in some measure, untill the Day advanced for the Conference at Hampton-court, Conference at Hampton-Court. in Iaruary.

Whether was summoned by Letters, the Arch Bishop of Canterbury, the Bishops of London, Durham, Winton, Worcester, St: Davids, Chichester, Carlile, and Peterborough; the Deans of the Chapel, Pauls, West-Chester, Salisbury, and Westminster.

[Page]On the other part were these Doctors, Reynolds, and Sparks, Mr: Knewstubs, and Mr: Chaderton, Agents for the (Millenary Plaintiffs,See Confer. at Hampton-Court. says the Book) and these four were the fittest, that could be found amongst them all.

The King sent for the Bishops to come before him in private, and entered their Assemblying, with a grave and princely Declaration of this his general drift; By example of all Christian Princes, in commencements of their Reign, establishing the Doctrine and policy of the Church; Henry 8. did it toward the end of his Reign; Edward 6. altered more; Queen Mary reversed all; and Queen Elizabeth settled it as now it standeth; His happiness is to have no cause to alter, but to confirm what he findeth, and which so affects him, that he entered into a gratulation to Almighty God, for bringing him into the promised Land, where Religion was purely professed, and to sit amongst grave, learned and reverend men, not as before, elsewhere, a King without State, Honour, or Order, where beardless boys would yet beard him to his face; acknowledging now the Government Ecclesiastical to be approved by manifold blessings of God, increase of the Gospel, and a glorious Peace. But as nothing could be so ordered, but may have additions, and in any State, (as in the body of man) corruptions might insensibly grow, either through time or persons, of which some complaints have pretended Reformation: His purpose therefore was, to try the complaints and remove the occasions, if scandalous; or to cure them, if dangerous; or, if but frivolous, to take so much knowledg thereof, as to cast a Sop into Cerberus his mouth, never to [...]ark more, to give factious spirits no occasion of boasting, and to redress what should appear fitting, without any visible alteration.

And in particular the King signified,The Kings private Demands. he called them alone, about some points, to be satisfied himself concerning the Book of Common Prayer and Service.

Excommunication in Ecclesiastical Courts.

Providing of able Ministers for Ireland.

First,Confirmation. in the Book, [confirming of Baptism] as if without it the Sacrament were invalid, then were it blasphemous.

Secondly, for the use; at first indeed upon occasion, that Infants being baptized and answering by their Patrini, it was necessary they should be examined at years of discretion, and confirmed by the Bishop with a Blessing and Prayer; but abhorred it as a Popish Sacrament and courleration of Baptism.

About Absolution, Absolution. that there being onely two kindes, General and Particular; all Prayers and Preaching import an Absolution; the other is to be applied to special parties, after a scandal and repentance are resolved.

Thirdly, Private Baptism; if private for peace, so did the Primitive Church; if for persons, none ought but a lawfull [Page] Minister; and therefore was earnest against Women and Layicks.

Excommunication.

To consider the matter, whether executed in light causes and too often? In the persons; why Lay-men, Chancellours and Commissioners do it? why not the Bishops, with the Dean and Chapters, or Ministers, or Chaplains?

Ireland.

This for Ireland was referred to a consultation hereafter.

Confirmation.

The Arch Bishop shewed the Antiquity of Confirmation from the Apostles, till of late some particular Churches had rejected it: he declared the lawfull use thereof; and affirmed, that the Church of England did not hold Baptism imperfect without it, or added any thing to the virtue and strength thereof: this he manifested by the Rubricks in the Communion Book before Confirmation.

The Bishop of London said, It did not depend onely upon Antiquity, as in Cyprian, Ep. 73. and Hierom. adversus Luciferian. but was one of the particular points of the Apostles Catechism in express words, Heb. 6. 2. and so did Calvin expound that very place, which was read and approved.

That we made it not a Sacrament or Corroboration; and yet the King was of opinion, it might rather be intituled Examination with a Confirmation.

Absolution.

It was cleared from all abuse or superstition, the Minister does but pronounce Absolution in general, after the Confession; that in the Communion Book there was another particular and personal Form of Absolution for the Visitation of the Sick; and that the Confessions of Augusta, Boheme, Saxon, which be there cited do retain and allow it, and so does Calvin approve such a kinde of Confession and Absolution.

Private Baptism.

That the Administration by Women and Layicks was not practised of the Church, but inquired of by Bishops in their Visitations and censured; and although the words in the Book might seem doubtfull, yet the Compilers did not so intend them, and yet propounded them ambiguously, (perhaps) that it might thereby pass in Parliament, and in case of necessity onely, and was so, agreeable to the practice of ancient Church, as Acts 2. where three thousand were baptized in one day; impossible for the Apostles to do themselves, or improbable, and besides them there were no Bishops or Priests; and Tertullian and Saint Ambrose in Ephes. 4. are plain in that point; laying open also the impious opinions, who think there is no necessity [Page] of Baptism; not, as if without it God could not save the Childe; and the case being put as incertain, if not baptized; but, if baptized, an evident assurance, and so rather to ground upon Christ's promise, than by omission upon Gods secret judgments.

The King replied, That the place Acts 2. was an act extraordinary, the Church then unsettled and ungrounded, now stablished and flourishing; that he maintained necessity of Baptism; as to the place of Saint John, Nisi quis renatus fuerit ex aqua, &c. was meant of Baptism; and that fourteen Moneths ago, he did argue in Scotland against his Divines there, for ascribing too little to that Sacrament; so that (said he) a pert Minister asked him, if it were so necessary, that being omitted, the Child should not be saved? He answered, No. But if you be called (though in private) to baptize him, and refuse, I think you shall be damned.

But he concluded, Necessity of Baptism to be necessary by lawfull Ministers, and none other, and yet utterly disliked Rebaptization, though after either Women or Laicks.

Here the Bishop of Winton affirmed, that to deny baptizing by private persons in case of necessity, crossed all Antiquity; that the Minister is not of the essence of the Sacrament, yet is he of the essence of the right and lawfull Ministry thereof; the commission of Christ, Matth. 28. 20. Go preach and baptize.

Excommunication.

The King asked, Whether the Name might not be changed, and yet the censure retained? or whether another coercion equivalent?

He was answered, that it had been heretofore often considered, but Queen Elizabeth resolved to be Semper eadem, and not to alter what she had settled.

The King professing, That though he lived some time as a Ward, under Puritans, yet since he was of his Sons age, (the Prince sitting by) he ever disliked their opinions▪ though he lived among them, he was not of them.

Opus primae diei.

The perfect Conference.

The Bishops, Deans, and Doctors, (and a Scotish Minister Patrick Galloway was admitted) and Reynolds, Sparks, Knewstubs, and Chaderton.

The King told them all the intent of the Conference, meet for every King at his entrance to the Crown; Not to innovate the established Government, which by long experience he found was accompanied with singular blessings five and forty years, as that no Church upon the face of the earth flourished more than this of England. But first to settle an uniform Order therein. Secondly, to [Page] plant unity, for suppressing Papists and other Enemies to Religion. Thirdly, to amend abuses, being natural to bodies Politick, and to corrupt man, as the shadow to the body, which once being entered, have motion like a wheel set going; and because complaints had been made, he thought best to summon the gravest and most learned, to hear what could be said; and so wished the Oponents to object.

They four kneeled down,Opponents. and Doctor Reynolds the fore-man, after a short Preamble gratulatory, signified his Majesties summons, by virtue whereof these appeared, reducing all matters disliked to these four Heads.

1. That the Doctrine of the Church might be preserved pure, according to Gods Word.

2. That good Pastors might be planted to preach.

3. That the Church-government might be sincerely ministred according to Gods Word.

4. That the Book of Common Prayer might be fitted to more increase of piety.

In the first,Doctrine. that the Book of Articles of Religion concluded 1562. might be explain'd where obscure, and enlarged where defective, viz. Acts 16. the words are these, After we have received the Holy Ghost, we may depart from grace: which seem to be contrary to the Doctrine of Gods Predestination and Election in Article 17. both these words might be explained with this addition, yet neither totally, nor finally; and that the nine Assertions upon a conference heretofore at Lambeth, might be inserted into that Book.

Secondly, where it is said in Article 23. that none should preach or administer Sacraments in the Congregation without lawfull calling; he said, implied, a lawfulness for any man out of the Congregation to preach, &c. though he had no lawfull calling.

Thirdly, in Article 25. touching Confirmation, grown partly of the corrupt following the Apostles, being opposite to those in the Collect of Confirmation in the Communion Book, Upon whom after the example of the Apostles; argue (saith he) a contrariety each to other; the first confessing Confirmation to be a depraved imitation of the Apostles; the second, grounding it on their example, Acts 8. 19. as if the Bishop in confirming children, did by imposing his hands, (as the Apostles do in those places) give the visible graces of the Holy Ghost, &c. therefore he desired that both the contradictions might be considered, and this ground of contradiction examined.

The Bishop of London first desired his Majesty, That the [Page]antient Canon might be remembred, Schismatici contra Episcopos non sunt audiendi.

Secondly, that if any of these parties were in the Number of the 1000. Ministers who had once subscribed,Answer. and yet petitioned against it, they might be removed, according to a very decree of an antient Counsel, That no man should be admitted, to speak against what he had subscribed, and contrary to a statute,1. Elizabeth. to speak against the Liturgie and discipline established, alleging what Master Cartwright had confirmed, that we ought rather to conform to Orders and Ceremonies to the fashion of the Turks, than to the Papists,

Concerning falling from Grace, the said Bishop said,Falling from grace. that very many Men neglecting holiness of Life, presumed of persisting in Grace, laying all their Religion on Predistination, if I shall be saved, I shall be saved, a desperate doctrine, wherein we should rather reason ascendendo than descendendo, Thus, I live in Obedience to God, In love with my Neighbour, I follow my vocation, &c. I trust God hath elected me, and predestinated me to salvation: But contrariwise they use this argument, God hath perdestinated and chosen me to life, and though I sin never so grievously, I shall not be damned, for whom he once loveth, he loveth eternally. Whereupon he shewed what was the doctrine of the Church of England, briefly, That we must receive Gods promises as they are set forth generally in Scripture, and do that will of God, which is expresly declared in Scripture.

The King wished that the doctrine of Predestination be tenderly handled, lest on the one side Gods Omnipotencie might be questioned, by impeaching the doctrine of Predestination, or on the other, a desperate presumption might be averred, by inferring the necessary certainty of standing and persisting in grace.

To the second it was answered, none but a Licensed Minister might preach,Licensed Ministers. nor administer the Eucharist or the Lords supper, and for private Baptism (the King said) he had ordered already.

The third point was observed, to be of Curiosity or Malice,Confirmation. because the Article (there read) These five commonly called Sacraments, Confirmation, Penance, Orders, &c. are not to be accounted Sacraments of the Gospel, being such as have grown partly of the corrupt following the Apostles, &c. Insinuateth, that the making of Confirmation to be a sacrament, is a corrupt imitation: But the Communion-Book makes it to be according to the Apostles example, which being read, the King concluded it to be but a Libel. Now for the ground thereof, it was not so much founded on the places in the Acts, but upon Heb. 6. 2. where it is made a part of the Apostles Catechism, which was [Page] the opinion of the fathers, and of Calvin and Fulk, the one upon Hebrew 6. 1. the other upon Acts 8. 27. where (with Saint Austin) he saith, We do not mislike that antient Ceremony (of imposing of hands for strengthning and confirming such as had been Baptised) being nothing else but a prayer over a Man to be strengthned and confirmed by the holy Ghost, or to receive the gifts of the holy Ghost, as Saint Ambross saith; alluding to Heb. 6. 2, &c. Nor (saith he) is it their opinion, Confirmation to be unlawful, but rather because they have not the use of this in their own hands, every Pastor in his Parish to confirm, for then it would be accounted an Apostolical institution. And indeed Doctor Reynolds seemed to grant, replying, that some diocess of a Bishop had 609, Opponent. Parish-Churches (as London,) it was inconvenient to commit confirmation to him alone, as impossible to examine all them.

It was answered,Answer. that the Bishop usually appoints his Chaplins or Ministers to examine them, and none are otherwise confirmed but by testimony of the Parsons or Curats, where they are bred and born; and Saint Ierome says, that the Execution was indeed restrained to Bishops only, ad honorem potius sacerdotii, quam ad legis necessitatem. Ecclesiae salus in summi Sacerdotis dignitate pendet; cui si non Exors quaedam, et ab omnibus eminens detur potestas, tot in Ecclesiis efficerentur schismata, quot▪ sacerdotes. It was used anciently, partly to examine children whether they had been baptized or no, for primitively baptism was administered in divers sorts. In Nomine patris et filii, &c. others In Nomine patris Majoris, et filii Minoris, as the Arrians did; some, in nomine patris per filium, in Spiritu sancto; others not in the name of the Trinity, but in the name of Christ, &c. Whereupon Catholick Bishops were constrained to examine them, who were baptized in remotis. The King concluded, as none should confirm, so none to preach without the Bishops License.

Doctor Reynolds complained,Opponent. Catechism. that the Catechism in the Common-prayer-Book was too brief, and Nowells was too long, requested one uniform, and none other. It was thought reasonable, the King saying, That in Scotland every one well affected, or thought to the sonne of a good man, Answer. set out a Catechism, and what was received in one Congregation, was never accepted Orthodoxall in another, adding this gromical Canon conclusion, First, that old intricate questions might be avoyded in the fundamental Instructions of the people; Secondly not to be such a departure from the Papists in all things, as to be therefore in error, because we agree in some.

Then Doctor Reynolds moved for a new Translation of the Bible,Opponent. Translation of the Bible. the old ones of Henry the eighth, and Edward the sixth, being corrupt; Instanced in Galathians 4. 2 [...]. Psal. 101. 28. They were not obedient, For not disobedient. Psal. 106. 30, &c.

[Page] The King complained thereof, and the worst to be Geneva, the Marginal notes thereof were partial, untrue, seditious, and trayterous, as Exod. 1. 19. the note alloweth disobedience to Kings, And 2. Chron. 15. 16. The note taxeth Asa for deposing the Mother and not killing her. That errors in matters of faith may be rectified, that matters indifferent might rather be interpreted and a gloss added, concluding rather a Church with some faults then an Innovation; and surely saies he, if these be the greatest matters, I needed not your complaints.

Doctor Reynolds complained against publishing some Books unlawfull,Opponent. instance that, De jure Magistratus in subditos, published of late by Ficlerus a Papist, and applyed against Queen Elizabeth, for the Pope.

Bishop of London said,Answe [...]. That the Author de Iure was a great disciplinarian, whereby it appears what advantage these Sects afforded, to the Papists, who mutatis personis, could apply their own arguments, against Protestant Princes.

That for other Books lately admitted, viz: Disputes between Secular Priests, and Iesuites, the King told Doctor Reynolds, He was a better Colledg-man, than a States-man, and willed him and His associates to know, they were permitted by order of Counsel Table, whereby their schisme and his Majesties title handled, and the title of Spain confuted; and wherein this State was cleered of putting Papists to death, not for Religion, but Treason. And thus much concerning purity of Doctrine.

The second generall point.Opponent. Pastors to be Resident and Learned.

The King had ordered the Bishops to be carefull herein,Answered. but as subita evacuatio was per [...]culosa, so subita Mutatio. That there were more sufficient divines, than Maintenance, which must be first provided; young ignorant Ministers to be removed, if old, death must make void for better; Jerusalem could not be built in a day.

It was conceived, that Lay-Patrones presented such, as liked their humour and faction, the Law admitting any mean Clerk, and if the Bishop opposed, a quare impedit is sent against him.

Some moved to settle a praying Ministery another while, for there are many excellent duties in the Ministers, Absolving the Penitent, Praying for and Blessing the People, Administring the Sacraments; but now it is concluded into one onely duty, preaching, oft time indiscreetly to the prejudice of divine service, being usual rather to walk in the Church-yard, than be at the service.

The King said it was most necessary to plant by preaching, but in a Church so long established in faith, onely the Hypocrite placed all his Religion in the Ear, as an easie passage, but Prayer expressed the hearts affections, and the true devotions of the mind, puts us to [Page] over-much trouble. There ought to concur in prayer, an unpartial consideration of our own estates, a due examination to whom we pray, an humble confession of our sins, hearty sorrow, and repentance not severed from faith. In the mean time that Homilies might be read; every Man that can pronounce well, cannot perhaps indite well; to which the Adversaries confessed. They were told of the Pulpits, made by them Pasquils, a lude custome to traduce.

Thrird and fourth general heads mingled together.

Here indeed Doctor Reynolds skipt over the third point into it,Subscription. urging Subscription as an Impeachment to a learned Ministery, and desired not to be exacted; their reason, The books Apocryphal, enjoyned in the Common prayer-book to be read, were in part erroneous. Instanced Ecclus. 48. 10. That Elias was to come before Christ, and so Christ not to be come, because (saith he) Ecclus. useth the very words of Elias in Person, which Malachi Chap. 4. doth apply to Elias in resemblance, which both an Angell, Luke 1. 17. and our Saviour, Matth. 11. did interpret to be Iohn Baptist.

He was answered with Sir Ieromes distinction, Canonici sunt ad informandos mores, non ad confirmandam fidem. The King desired an even Order. Not all Canonical books to be read in the Church, unless to be interpreted, nor any Apocrypha at all, where any error, but such as were clear with the scriptures, else why printed? As the Maccabees, excellent to make up the story of the Jews persecution, but not to teach a man to sacrifice for the dead, or to kill himself.

But the King finding them to insist so hotly against Ecclesiasticus, the place being read, he shewed who the Author was, then the cause why he did write it, next Analyzed that Chapter, shewing the precedents and consequents thereof, lastly, exactly and divinely unfolded the sum of that place, arguing and demonstrating, that whatsoever Ben Sirach had said there of Elias, Elias had in his own person while he lived performed and accomplished; So that the Susurrus at the first mention, was not so great, as the astonishment was now at the Kings sodain sound and admirable interpretation, concluding, that the opposers did ill, to impose upon a Man that was dead, a contrary sence; and (smyling) told the Lords, what, trow yee, makes these men so angry with Ecclesiasticus, without doubt, they take him for a Bishop?

2. The next objection was that old Crambe [...]is posita. Jesus said to his Disciples, when by the Original, he spake to the Pharises; but bearing a double sence, Disciples was to be left out, or in a different letter.

[Page] 3. The third Objection against Subscription were Interrogatories in Baptism propounded to Infants; that out of Austin, Baptizare was credere.

The King said, Ego non intelligo.

Bishop Winton aiming at his meaning, shewed the use thereof out of Saint Austin, and the reason, Qui peccavit in altero, credat in altero.

It was seconded by the King, That the Question should be propounded to the party whom it principally concerned, as (saith he) by example of my self, to whom Interrogatories were propounded, when he was crowned in his infancy in Scotland.

Then Mr. Knewstubs fell out with the Cross in Baptism; first, as the offence of weak Brethren, Rom. 14. & 1 Cor. 8. the consciences of the weak not to be offended.

It was answered, Distingue tempora & concordabunt Scripturae; then a Church not settled, ours long flourishing; asking them, How long they meant to be weak? Whether five and forty years were not sufficient? Then, who they were? For it is not now required Subscription of Laicks and Idiots, but Preachers and Ministers; that it was rather doubted, some of them were not to be fed with milk, being strong enough, if not headstrong, and thought themselves able to teach all the Bishops.

Their Objections were, whether the Church had power to institute an external significant sign?

Answered, It was used in Baptism onely as a Ceremony, and as by their own example, who make Imposition of hands in their Ordination of Pastors, to be a sign significant; all our actions in Prayer are ceremonies significant; the Iews to their Moses Pasover have added signs and words, Take and eat these in remembrance, &c. Drink this in remembrance, &c. Upon which addition and tradition, our Saviour at his last Supper celebration used the same, as approving that fact of theirs, and generally that a Church may insti [...]ute a sign significant.

Doctor Reynolds confessed the use of the Cross ever since the Apostles, but whether in Baptism, Quaere? It was used in Baptism in the time of Constantine, who was no Papist.

Mr. Knewstubs said, Though the Church had power to add significant signs, yet not to add where Christ had ordained but one; as not to add a private Seal to the great Seal of England.

It was answered, that no sign or thing was added to the Sacrament, which was fully and perfectly finished, before any mention of the Cross is made.

Then it was opposed,Opponent. how far such an Ordinance of the Church was binding, without impeaching Christian liberty.

The King told him, Answer. He would not dispute that point, but argue [Page] as Kings speak in Parliament, Le Roy s' avisera; adding, that it smelt rank of Anabaptism, saying, A beardless Boy (John Black) in a conference I had with the Ministers in Scotland, vouchsafed to say, He would conform to my Ordinances for Doctrine; but for Ceremonies, they were left in Christian libertie to every man as he was more or less illuminated of Gods Spirit; even till they grow mad with their own light: but I will have one Doctrine, one Discipline, one Religion in substance and ceremony.

They urged the stamping the Brazen Serpent to pouder by Ezekias, Opponent. because the people abused it to idolatry, and so it was abused in time of Popery.

Therefore said the King, Answer. It shall continue, because you say, it was abused in Popery to superstition; it implies, it was well used before Popery, and so now.

Here the King remembered, that he had lived long with such men as these, but never of them; they do so peremptorily disallow of all things, which had been any way used in Popery. The Papists object us with Novelties, which truly I cannot better answer, than to tell them, their abuses are new, but the good things which they abused we retain, and forsake the novel corruption; for by the same Argument we may renounce the Trinity, and all that is holy▪ because abused in Popery.

What resemblance is there between the Brazen Serpent, a visible thing, and the sign of a Cross made in the air? The Papists never ascribed any power or spiritual grace to the Cross in Baptism; the material Crosses are by us demolished, as you desire, which the Papists used to idolatry.

The third general Head Church-garment.

Then they objected the Surplice to be a Garment used by the Priests of Isis. Surplice▪ Opponent.

The King smiled, Is it now borrowed from the Heathen,Answer. which till now ye accounted a Rag of Popery? We are not in danger of Paganism though of Papism. Antiquity always used different habits in divine Service, principally white Linnen; and he always desired not further to separate from the Church of Rome in Doctrine or Ceremony, than she had departed from her self and her Head Christ Jesus.

The fourth general Head Common Prayer.

Doctor Reynolds would not have these words,Of M [...]t [...]imony. With my body I thee worship. Opponent. They told me it was divine worship.

The King said, It was an usual English word, of Reverence, not to idolatry. But Doctor, if you have a good Wife, do her to worship, and more too.

That nothing was more meant thereby, than as Saint Paul [Page]1 Cor. 7. 4. that to worship the Wife, is for the Man to appropriate his body to her alone; and as 1 Pet. 3. 7. To give honour to the Wife as to the weaker vessel. So to please them was added honour to the word worship.

The Ring they did not except.

As for Churching of Women, called Purification, the King would not alter that decent manner in matter or words, saying, Women of themselves are loth enough to come to Church, therefore all good ways to invite them.

Fourth general Head.

Doctor Reynolds excepted against committing Ecclesiastical Censures to Lay Chancellours,Discipline. Opponent. seeing their Authority in Hen. 8. time was abrogated in Queen Mary's, and not revived, and abridged by Bishops themselves, Anno 1571. ordering, that Lay-Chancellours should not excommunicate in matters of correction; and Anno 1584, & 1589. not in matters of instance.

The King told them,Answer. He had conferred therein, and would consider.

D. Reynolds desired to have Provincial Constitutions,1 Cor. 14. as the Clergy to meet once in three Weeks; first in rural Deanaries, and therein to have Prophecying. Secondly, and if not there resolved,Acts 11. then to be referred to an Arch Deacons Visitation: and so thirdly, to Episcopal Synod, where the Bishop with his Prebytery might determine.

The King started at the word, Answer. saying, They aimed at the Scotish Presbytery; which (said he) agrees with Monarchy as God and the Devil; then Jack, and Tom, and Dick, shall meet and censure me and my Council, and all our Proceedings. Stay, if once that Government be up, we shall have work enough.

Sir, said the King to Reynolds, you have spoken for my Supremacy, and you did well; know you of any that like of the present Ecclesiastical Government, dislike my Supremacy?

He answered, No.

I will tell you a Tale, After Queen Mary had overthrown Edward 6. his settlement of Religion, whereupon Mas. Knox in England writes to the Queen Regent my Grand-mother, a virtuous and moderate Princess, telling her, She was Supreme Head of the Church, charging her in Gods Name to take care of Christ's Evangil, and suppress the Prelates. But how long trow ye, held this? Even till he and his Adherents were shuffled in, and understood matters of Reformation, declined her Authority, assuming all Ecclesiastick into their own hands, and according to more light wherewith they pretended illumination, made further Reformation. How they dealt with my good Mother, not allowing to her breeding a poor Chapel; but her Supremacy was not sufficient Authority: and how with me in my minority, these times remember.

[Page] My Lords Bishops, I thank you that these men plead for my Supremacy now; they think you too hard for them, but by appealing unto it, as if you were not well affected; but I say, [No Bishop, no King] I speak not at Random; for I have observed some of their Gang, to pray for my Person as King of England, &c. but for Supremacy over all persons, they pass that over. If this be all you can say, Ile make you subscribe, or hurry you out of England.

Finis secundi Diei.

§

The next day of Conference, appeared all the before-named, and also were admitted the Doctors of the Civil Law, Sir Daniel Dunn, Sir Thomas Crompton, Sir Richard Swale, Sir Iohn Bennet, and Doctor Drury.

The Arch-Bishop presented the King with a note of those points referred to consideration, the alteration or rather explanation of them in our Liturgy.

1. Absolution or Remission of sins, in the Rubrick of Absolution.

2. In private Baptism, the lawfull Minister present.

3. Examination with Confirmation of Children.

4. Jesus said to them, in the Dominical Gospel, in stead of Jesus said to his Discipes

The King reading the Common-Prayer-Book of Private Baptism; [They baptize not Children] it shall be altered, They cause not Children to be baptized; and where it is said, [Then they minister it] it shall be, The Curate and lawfull Minister present. Concluding, that he aimed at three things:

1. Words fit and convenient.

2. How things might be best done without appearance of alteration.

3. To be practised, that each man may do his duty in his place.

The King said, High Commission.

1. The parties named in the High Commission were too many and too mean.

2. The matters too base.

3. That the branches granted out to the Bishops were too frequent and large.

The Arch-Bishop answered,

1. That albeit the Privy Council were in, all the Bishops, Judges of Law, and others, but their imployment hindred their sitting, unless supplied by meaner men, Deans and Doctors.

2. The fault may be mean, that the Ordinary may censure; but often times the Delinquent might be so great and so wilfull, that the ordinary brand of the High Commission is needfull.

And for the third, It was to be referred to consultation.

The King was shewed the three Articles which are to be subscribed unto, viz. To the Kings Supremacy, the Articles of Religion, [Page] and Common Prayer-Book. His Majesty said, Subscription was necessary to prevent Tumults in the Church, 2ly. Because the Minister must answer for every Minister, for turpius ejicitur quam non admittitur Hospes, 3ly. As a good means to discern the parties affection, and to avoid confusion, and he that would be refractory deserved to be hanged, praestat ut pereat unus quam unitas.

Touching the Oath ex Officio, the King prevented that old Allegation, Nemo cogitur detegere suam turpitudinem, Ex officio. said that civil proceedings only punished facts, but Ecclesiastical Courts looked unto Fame and Scandal; that there was necessary the Oath Compurgator and ex officio, with moderation in gravioribus criminibus; 2ly. In such of publick Fame, and to be distinguished, as in Scotland, where lying with a wench, though but suspected, was made publick, to all the states and people, at the stool of repentance. And here the King described the Oath ex officio, the grounds thereof, the wisdom of the Law therein, the manner of proceeding thereby, and the necessary use thereof, In so compendious and absolute order, as the Auditors were amazed; the Arch-Bishop said he spake by Gods spirit.

Then was committed to consultation,

1. For excommunication; the Name or censure to be altered.

2. For the high Commission; the quality of the Persons to be named, and the nature of the causes.

3. For Recusant Communicants; the weak to be informed, the wilfull punished.

The 4th thing consulted was, for sending Preachers into Ireland; He being (as he said) there but half a King, over their Bodies, but their soules seduced by Popery, no Religion, no Obedience; to send men of sincerity, Knowledge, and Courage.

The last was for maintenance for the Clergie.

Then Master Chadderton requested,Opponent. that the surpliss and Cross in Baptism, might not be urged upon godly Ministers in Lancashire, lest they revolt to Popery, instancing the Vicar of Ratesdale, a Man that doled the Communion bread at the Sacrament, out of a Basket, every man putting in his hand for himself.Answerr That letters should be writ to the Bishop there, but if they were turbulent spirits, they should be inforced to conformity, and a time limitted.

Master Knewstubs Opponent. desired the same favour for the Godly Ministers in Suffolk not to be forced against their Credits to the surpliss and Cross. Sir, said the King, have we taken pains, and concluded of an unity and conformity,Answer. and you forsooth must preferr the credits of a few private men, before the publick peace of the Church. The Scots Argument; because they had been long of a contrary opinion.

[Page] Somewhat was said against their Ambuling Communions, and Master Chaterton's sitting Communion in Emmanuel College▪ But finally, they all promised conformity and obedience, and so parted that Meeting.

Chancellour Egerton, a wise and learned Counsellour, wondering at the Kings ready Disputes, expert and perfect in Divinity, said, That he had read, that Rex est mixta persona cum Sacerdote, and now he sees the truth thereof in him.

A marvel to some, (in these our last times) why no more able men to be found for them but four. I shall answer with a truth, and no marvel, That some years after, when the Roles were examined, that were deposed, they were found to be but nine and fourty in all England; when in Scotland they were reckoned above nine thousand; so great a stir could so few make here: or else they subscribed to keep their Livings; and no wonder; they were ever loth to lose all, and many of them knew how to turn.

And orderly afterwards the King put forth two Proclamations, the one,Proclamation for Uniformity. To satisfie his Subjects for Unifomity in Religion, according to the established Laws. And Doctor Abbot and others sent in Apostolical Embassie into Scotland, to settle the Church and spirits of the Clergy there, as he had done here, that every spirit led onely with piety, and not humour, might be therein satisfied.

The other Proclamation against Iesuits expresseth, Against Jesuits. That a greater contagion to our Religion was eminent by sundry persons common Enemies to them both, namely, numbers of Priests, Seminaries, Iesuits, abounding here, of such as were before and since our coming, and with greater liberty than they durst have done; upon confidence of innovation in Religion, and general Pardon at our Coronation, do exercise their Professions, and saying Mass, and endeavouring to seduce the Subjects from their duty to us, and to reconcile them to Rome. To prevent infection with Superstition, pernicious to the soul, and corrupt against Alleageance, is to debar the People such Instruments of infection; and they are Priests of all sorts, ordained in forein parts, prohibited here by the Authority of the Laws of this Land. And therefore against such, they shall before the 19th. of March next depart out of this Realm and the Kings Dominions, and not to return hereafter upon penalty of the Laws in force to be inflicted without any favour. The Reasons and excuses for this seeming severity toward that sort of Subjects is enforced from the peril of his Person by late conspiracy of confusion, conceived by persons of that sort onely. And this may satisfie forein Princes, proceeds from providence, to prevent perils otherwise inevitable; considering their submission to forein Iurisdiction, seems to dispence at pleasure, with the power of their own Sovereign, or strictest bond of loyalty and [Page] love, between a King and his People. And though it is civilly considered personal respects to the now Bishop of Rome, (in state and condition of a secular Prince) yet observing the course and clame of that See, no Prince of our Religion and Profession can be assured of continuance, unless by assent of other Christian Princes to a general Council free and lawfull, to pluck up those Roots of dangers and jealousies arising about Religion, as well between Prince and Prince, as between them and their Subjects; and also to manifest that no State or Potentate either hath or can challenge power to dispose of earthly Kingdoms or Monarchies, or to dispence with Subjects obedience to their natural Sovereigns; in which charitable action no Prince shall more readily concur his power, not onely out of particular disposition to peace with all States, but by such union, an amity might be settled to resist the common Enemy.

Febr. 22.

Jacobi I.

§

This did something allay them,Presbyters displeased. but not the Presbyters [who by pens and preaching (saies he) strook at the very root of Hierarchy, so that it was a hard question,Hist. Gr. Brit. p. 10. which of them were the most odious.] Truly both of them, Neither Barrel better Herring, for the Papists wrought in private, and these that way also, besides their pittyfull preaching.

And at this time died that learned Arch-Bishop Whitgift, Arch Bishop Whitgift dies. a good and pious Man, whom Banckroft succeeded, no great friend to them, but to satisfie their violence he is intrusted with their directory, a Manuscript compiled as they gave out to startle the next Parliament, which they deliver to the Arch-Bishop, but he pretending to have lo [...]t it when it was called for, and they without any Copy, devised another so different from the former, as being afterwards compared▪ the Parliament concluded that every new motion would alter their Model ad infinitum, so unsetled they were then, and are to this day, as never to be satisfied with any, as to our trouble and late experience hath been evident. And which this most reverend Whitgift foretold on his death-bed, the miserable effects of their violence.

Et nunc domine (said he) exaltata est Anima mea, quod in eo tempore succubui, quando mallem Episcopatus mei deo reddere rationem quam inter homines exercere.

But indeed Presbyters had so bitten the King and his Kingdom, and now at his coming it behoved him to quiet them, for as all knew it lay in his power to be Head of the Protestant Professours, so upon this new access to these Crowns, it was conceived he might alter all ancient Forms, upon a new score, who having bit on the Bridle so long at home, it would concern him now, to keep the Reins free, having entailed Precepts upon his [Page] posterity to that end, Instructions, as frontlets and chains, real and lasting, and bequeathed to them as Legacies to after age, forewarning his Son in his Basilicon Doron, not to wrest the Word of God to self-appetite. So now therefore, he resolved, to frame his own and his peoples affections to follow that true Rule of Scripture, which suffered under several Interpretations: he therefore commended it to the choice,The Translation of the Scriptures. grave, and most learned of this Nation, and commanded them, as they would answer at Gods Tribunal, to be carefull therein, painfull and just. They did so, and we have that blessing amongst us as the most perfect Translation in English of all others; not without Exceptions in that also from our Adversaries the Papists and Sectarists.

The Scripture was writ in parts, the most ancient Language was Hebrew, the most copious the Greek, and Latine the finest; but as the Hebrews in their time accounted all Languages but their own, Lognasim, or barbarous: so then, that others might come to the waters of life, we must (as Iacob) role the stone from the Well,Gen. 19. that the Sheep may drink of the waters of life; we could not reade the Book, Isay 29. for it was sealed. And indeed whilest the dew lay on Gideon's fleece, all the earth was dry: but near before the time of our [...]blessed Reconciliation by our Saviour CHRIST, Not of the Jew onely, but of the Greek also, then God raised up the heart of a Greek Prince (by descent and Language) Ptolomy Philadelph King of Egypt, to procure the Translation of the Old Testament into Greek out of Hebrew, which we call the Seventy Interpreters. The Greek Tongue made familiar to most Inhabitants in Asia, by reason of their Conquests; and also understood in many places of Europe and Africa; but yet not so acceptable to some, no not of the Iews.

For not long after Christ, Aquila, Theodosia, Symmachus, and others translate it again, these with the Seventy made up the Hexapla, and all together were compiled by Saint Origen; yet as men they might have failings, which made the Apostles themselves to leave them, when they left the Hebrew letter.

A few hundred of years after Christ, the Roman Conquests having mastered many Nations, East, West, North and South, the Old Testament spake Latine, Latini Interpretes nullo `modo numerari possunt, too man to be good, being all from the Greek; which moved Saint Hierom, the best Linguist and most learned of his age, to translate the Old Testament out of Hebrew into Latine, most admirable. Thus was it in Greek and Latine, before that the faith of Christ was generally embraced in the Roman Empire; but afterwards most Nations under Heaven followed their Conversions not by voice onely, but by the written Word. So then followed Gothick, Arabick, Beda into Saxon, Vallus into [Page] French, and after two hundred years, Charls the Fifth, Sur le nome Prudente, and Iohn Trevisa about Richard 2. his time, into English. The Gospels also by many, and afterwards we had it in Henry 8. his time in English; that all men may say, As we have heard, Psalm 48. so have we seen.

The Church of Rome of long time would not admit them vulgar, in the Mother-tongue of any Nation, but onely in Latine, untill of late, permitted onely to some Professours of Papistry by licence of their Confessor, who must be sure to be soured with the Leven of their Superstition.

And would you think now at this time of Translation, that our own Brethren were better content with the ancient English, so long (say they) in use, without any more Supervising, alteration or quaint perusal.

To answer them it was said, That all ancient Translatours did review their former Works, and so got credit even with the Iews, as accurately done. So did Origen, joyned with the Hebrew Original, and the Seventyes Translation. And Saint Austin exhorted Saint Hierom to a Palinodia or Recantation. I am sure the Papists have least cause of offence from us: How oft have they altered their Service-books? Of late Pius Quintus did; so that every several Bishop had a different Officium.

These were the justifiable Reasons that moved King Iames to command this Translation of such men as might say of themselves with Saint Hierom, Et Hebraeum sermonem ex parte didicimus & Latinum pene ab ipsis incunabilis. Nor was it hastily huddled up, (as it is said, the Seventy did it in seventy days) but it was done over and over again, the pains of seventy times seventy days, out of Originals, Hebrew, Greek, Latine; consulting with the Translators, Commentators, of Chalde, Hebrew, Syrian, Greek, Latine: nor neglecting the several Translations of all the Nations of Europe, untill now that it comes out most perfect.

The Psalms of David turned into Meeter,Psalms translated. usually sung in our Churches, are the very same done into the Court English then of King Edward 6. days, by two or three godly men, but not learned, who took them from the Latine Translations commonly read in our Liturgy; these Psalms the King wished might then receive more proper Language, and more congruous with the Text.

Himself afterwards versified som, so did others very acute and learned (such particular Psalms proper to their affections) but the whole body was afterwards done by one, and the phrase not pleasing some peoples humours, (who were versed in the old, and mostly gotten by heart) they could never be admitted publick reception by command to be bound with the Bible.

[Page] If fame hath nor over-spoken our Hierarchy of his time, there were not other soils that yielded either so frequent flocks, or better fed, and went not on more happily in those high steps of true blessedness, to save themselves and others in the main helps of tender Pastures and still waters; by the one I mean an inuring of the people to the principles of Orthodox Doctrines, by the other an immunity from factions, and disturbance of the publick peace of the Church.

It was the Kings observation, That partly the miscarriage of our People into Popery and other Errours, was their ungroundedness in the points of the Catechism. How should such souls be other, than turned about with every winde of Doctrine, that are not well ballasted with solid informations? From whence it was that the King gave publick order for bestowing the later part of the Religious Day in familiar Catechizing.

It was the ignorance and evil disposedness of our Cavillers that taxed this course,Catechizing commended. as prejudicial to Preaching; yet in truth, the most usefull is Catechetical; this lays the Grounds, the other the Walls and Roof; this informs the judgment, that stirs up the affection; What use is there of those affections that run before the judgment? or of those Walls that want Foundation? And when that was in use, I have heard it confessed by some, that have spent the greater half of their aged life in the station of Gods holy service, they repent nothing so much, as not bestowing more hours in this Exercise of Catechism, and might justly quarrel their very Sermons, and wish the greater part of them had been thus exchanged for this speaking conference. Those other divine discourses enrich the brain, and the tongue at best; this settles the heart; these but the descant to the plain song. And if herein Ministers be too much curious to satisfie the roving appetite of the tickling ears of curious Auditours, their favour will be no better than injurious. So may you observe an indiscreet School-master, whilest he affects the thanks of an over-weening Parent, mar the progress of a forward childe, by raising him to an higher Form and Authour, ere he have well learned his first Rules. Heat of zeal to hear, is as natural heat to the body; there is no life of Religion without it; but as the kindest heat, if it be not tempered with a due equality, wasts it self and the body too, so doth zeal, not moderated with discretion. It is hard to be too vehement in contending for main and evident truths, but litigious and immaterial verities may soon be over-striven, for needless seeking a scruple of truth, to spend a pound of peace.

The Church of England, in whose motherhood we had just cause to pride our selves, hath in much wisdom and piety delivered her judgment of all necessary points in so compleat a body [Page] of Divinity, as all hearts might rest therein, not their truths onely, but their sufficiencies; the voice of God in holy Scriptures, the voice of the Church in her Articles.

As for her Rules, Forms and Dress, in Discipline, let it be examined whether the Luminaria magna, the Bishops were so severe, as to introduce antiquated Orders, or to impose novel Ceremonies, rather did they institute and discontinue some, though of use, yet superfluous, offensive to weak capacities, whose judgments could not concoct such fulsom matter, though palliated heretofore under lively names of Order and Decency.

And yet see what Sir Walter Ralegh said then, prophetically writing the effects after such Ceremonies should cease.

The reverend care (saith he) which Moses the Prophet and Servant of God had in all that belonged even to the outward and least parts of the Tabernacle, Ark, and Sanctuary, Hist. of the World. witnesseth well the inward and most humble zeal born towards God himself.pag. 249. The industry used in the framing thereof, in every and the least part thereof; the curious workmanship thereon bestowed; the exceeding charge and expence thereof in provisions; the dutifull observance in laying up and preserving the holy Vessels; the solemn removing thereof; the vigilant attendance thereon, and the provident defence of the same, which all Ages have in some degree imitated, is now so forgotten and cast away by this super-fine Age, by those of the Family, by Anabaptists, Brownists, and other Sectaries, as all cost and care bestowed and had of the Church, wherein God is to be served and worshipped, is accounted a kinde of Popery, and as proceeding from an idolatrous disposition; insomuch that time would soon bring to pass (if it were not [...]sisted) that God would be turn'd out of Churches into Barns, and from thence again into Fields and Mountains, and under Hedges; and the Officers of the Ministery (robbed of all dignity and respect) be as contemptible as those places; all Order, Discipline, and Church-government left to newness of opinion, and mens fancies; yea, and soon after, as many kindes of Religions would spring up in Parish Churches within England; every contentious and ignorant person pleasing his fancy with the Spirit of God, and his imagination with the gift of Revelation; insomuch as when the truth, which is but one, shall appear to the simple multitude, no less variable than contrary to it self, the faith of man will soon after die away by degrees, and all Religion be held in scorn and contempt. Which Distraction gave a great Prince of Germany cause of this Answer to them that perswaded him to become Lutheran.

Si me adjungo vobis, tunc condemnor ab alis, si me aliis adjungo, a vobis condemnor. Quid fugiam video, sed quid sequar, non habeo.

[Page] The time was come the first Anniversary Celebration in England with religious Rites and sacred Ceremonies of the unfortunately fortunate Nones of August, noted in Red Letters in the Calendar, Gowries aniversarie day celebrated. to represent the bloud of many thousand Martyrs spilt of that day, by Dioclesian in Rome; but now to be distinguished with golden Letters in ours, in memory of two renowned Kings in these Kingdoms; the one receiving life, the other escaped death, on this day; the Nativity of King Oswald, who united the Crowns of England and Scotland, which were severed afterwards for many Ages, and who in the end died a Christian Martyr, and sealed it with his bloud; the other King Iames, miraculously preserved from Gowry's Conspiracy, Anno 1600. and who now again unites these Crowns: and therefore we may change the old spell of the Martyrs, Quintum fuge into Quintum cole; if not for the Genesis of that one into life, yet for this others Exodus out of the Chamber of death.

And as this King never failed of the day Tuesday, weekly, to hear a Sermon, so neither of the Annual time unto his death, kept holy by him, and all his good Subjects: and the truth of the Conspiracy sufficiently recorded heretofore,See 1600. & 1608. and shall be hereafter confirmed, Anno 1608. Though our Historian died it seems of a contrary faith in that, himself being evenly conform to Gowry's loyalty,Hist. gr. Br. pa. 12. Affectiones facile faciunt opiniones; for he passes it over with this Odiism, That Gowry assaulted him, or he Gowry.

About this time a Commotion was stirred up by some Commoners against ingrossing their Ground;Comotion of some Commoners. when the King chanced to be invited in his hunting Journey, to dine with Sir Thomas I. of Barkshire, and turning short at the corner of a Common, happened near to a Countrey-man, sitting by the heels in the Stocks, who cried Hosanna to his Majesty, which invited him to ask the reason of his Restraint; Sir Thomas said, It was for stealing a Goose from the Common. The Fellow replied, I beseech your Majesty be Judge, Who is the greater Thief, I for stealing Geese from the Common, or his Worship for robbing the Common from the Geese? By my Sale, Sir, (said the King to Sir Thomas) Ise not dine to day on your Dishes, till you restore the Common for the poor to feed their Flocks. Which was forthwith granted to them, and the witty Fellow set free, and care soon taken to quiet Commotions.

The Plague ceasing, which hitherto bounded all mens expectations and persons at a distance; the people now flock up to London, to take view how the King would settle Laws and Constitutions afresh for the people.Parliaments beginnings. A Parliament was expected, (the peoples Idol in those days) which the King considered, according to the power and interest of Lords and Commons therein; and which thus grew up into a Body.

[Page] After the period of the Saxons time in England, Herald one of the great men got power, and put himself absolute, the rest of the Satrapas call in Wi [...]iam Duke of Normandy, (an active and fortunate Prince against the French King) the Duke leads over hither many the younger Sons of the best Families of Normany, Picardy, and Flanders: and getting this Kingdom by the Sword, he shared out his Purchace, retaining to himself a Portion in each County, and called Demenia Regnt, ancient Demeans, Crown-lands.

He assigns to others his Adventurers, suitable portions to their qualities, retains to himself dependency of their personal Services, and were stiled Barones Regis, Free-holders.

As the King to these, so they to their followers, subdivided part of their shares into Knights fees, and their Tenants were called Barones Comitis.

The Kings gifts extended to whole Counties, or Hundreds at the least; the Earl being Lord of the one, and a Baron of the inferiour Donations, to Lords of Townships or Mannors.

As the Land was thus divided, so was Iudicature; each severally, from the King to the meanest Lords, had their Court-Barons, yet perhaps Reddebant Iura by twelve of the Iury, called Free-holders Court, who with the Thame or chief Lords were Iudges.

The Hundred was next, whence Hundredus or Aldermanus, Jury were Judges, so Lilburn pleaded. Lord of the Hundred, wherewith the chief Lord of each Township judged within their Limits.

The County or Generale placitum was next, Ubi Curiae Dominorum [...]probantur defecisse pertinet ad Vice-comitem Provinciarum.

The last was Generale placitum apud London, universalis Synodus, Parliament of King and Barons onely. the Parliament of England, consisting of King and Barons onely, who ruled affairs of State, controuling all Inferiours.

So were there certain Officers of transcendent power for executing (not bounding) the Kings will, those were Steward, Constable, Marshal, heretofore fixed in Fee to Families; they (as Tribunes) grew too bold, and their power was lessened after the death of that daring Ea [...]l of Leicester slain at Evesham.

Henry 3. by hard experience of his Father, lessened their power, by examining their usurpations over Regality, being become Tot homines tot Tyranni.

Then began the favour of Kings to the Commons in Parliament, The Commons taken into Parliament. and they to joyn with the Peers, from whence it became the wisdom of Princes, how to mannage this Government, and to maintain this Form, Lest some of this Body knit under one Head should swell and grow monstrous.

And Monarchy may sooner groan under the weight of Aristocracy, as it often did, than under Democracy, which till now it [Page] never felt nor feared. The Actions of which singly are inconsiderable, after many Conjunctions grow at last into one great perfecting power, or into Destroying Factions, like smaller Brooks falling into some Main River.

The Parliament of England, Of the Parliament of England. of long time, and at this present, was come to be a Convention of the Estates of the Kingdom, assembled by the King, of Bishops, Peers, and Peoples Commissioners. They sat in two Senate-Houses, or Chambers, named a Higher and a Lower.

The Higher (called also the House of Peers) the Bishops and Peers, viz. Dukes, Marquesses, Earls, and Barons sit together; with whom sit the Judges of the law, for their advice, not voice.

The Lower House (called also the House of Commons) is constituted of Knights of the Shire; two Elected of every Shire, and of Cities and Incorporations, one or more Burgesses. The day and place of Assembly is appointed by the King, and adjourned, removed elsewhere, and dissolved at his pleasure.

The Lords or Peers are called by writs transmitted to them under the Kings hand. The Commons, by the Kings writ out of Chancery.

The writ to the Peers runs thus, The writ to summon the Peers. James by the Grace of God, &c. To the most reverend father in Christ (so he stiles the Bishops) Cousin, (if he speaks to the Peers) for as much as by the advice of our Council, upon some diffident and urgent affairs, us and the State, and defence of our Kingdom of England; and the Church of England concernant; We have ordained that our Parliament be held at, &c. there to consult and Treat with you and the rest of the Prelates, Nobles, and Heads, of our said Kingdom of England. We strictly charge and command you on your faith and love (if to the Bishops) by your fealty and Alleagance (if to the Peers) wherein you stand bound to us, that considering the difficulty of the said affairs, and the dangers iminent, laying aside whatsoever excuse, you be personally present on the said day and place with us, and the rest of the Prelates, Nobles, and Heads, to treat and give your advice, touching the said affairs; and this as you tender us and our Honour, and the safety of our said Kingdom and Holy-Church, and dispatch of the said affairs, may you in no wise omit (if he writes to the Bishops) to warn the Dean and Chapiter of your Church, and the whole Clergie of your Diocess, that the same Dean and Arch-Deacons in their proper persons, and the said Chapiter by one, and the same Clergie by two sufficient substitutes, having plenary and sufficient power from the said Chapiter and Clergy, be personally present on the said day and place, to consent to these things, which then and there by the favor of the divine Clemencie, shall happen to be ordained by the Common advice of our Kingdom. Witness ourselves, &c.

[Page] The other writ to the Sheriffs and Mayors of the Cities and Corporations, is thus. The King to the Sheriff Greeting. For as much by the advice and consent of our Council (and so goes on as above) and there to confer and treat with the Prelates, Peers, The writ to summon the Knights and Burgesses. and Heads of our Kingdom. We strictly charge and command you, that by proclamation made in your Shire, upon the receipt of our writ, you cause two Knights, with swords by their sides, the most sufficient and discreet of the Shire, and of every City of that County two Citizens, and of every Borough two Burgesses of the most discreet and sufficient, to be freely and indifferently chosen by such as shall be present at the Proclamation, according to the form of the Statutes on that behalf set forth and provided; And the Names of the said Knights, Citizens and Burgesses, to be inserted in certain Indentures, to be drawn between you and them, that shall be present as such Elections, whether the persons so chosen be present or absent; And then to come at the same day and place, so that the said Knights have full and sufficient power for themselves and the Communalty of the said Shire, and the said Citizens and Burgesses for themselves and the Communities of the Cities & Boroughs respectively from the same, to do and consent to such things, as then and there shall happen by Gods assistance to be ordained by the commune advice of our Kingdom, concerning the affairs offered, so that by your neglect therein, the said affairs in any case remain not undone. Notwithstanding we will not that you or any other Sheriff of our Kingdom be chosen.

At the day and place they meet at the Church first, then at the Parliament-Houses, orderly in their Robes, with solemn gate, such as might increase in the people, the authority of their siting.

Then the King enters the Upper-House, and either in his own person, or by the mouth of his Chancellor, declares the weighty causes of their Assembling, in Contemplation whereof, he desires their advice, to communicate their Counsels, (in doubtfull matters, most certain.)

That himself be present at these consultations, needs not, but only as oft as he sees good. There is no necessity after this, unless in the end of the Session, to add the strength and force of Laws, to their results.

The Knights, Citizens, and Burgesses in the Lower-House, are Man by Man called forth by their Names, by some one delegated by the King, and each is made to take the Oath of Alleageance, Oath of Alleageance. heretofore was this. I will keep true faith and Alleageance to James by the grace of God, &c. King, His Heirs and successors: Him and them I will defend, to my utmost strength, and with the hazard of my life and fortunes, against all conspiracies and attempts against his Person, Crown, and Dignity.

And lest any should dream of a Consortship in Government, [Page] there was superadded the Oath of Supremacy in these words.

I A. B. do utterly testifie and declare in my conscience,Of Supremacy. that the Kings Highness is the onely Supreme Governour of this Realm, and all other his Highness Dominions and Countreys, as well in all Spiritual and Ecclesiastical things or causes, as Temporal; and that no forein Prince, Person, Prelate, State, or Potentate hath, or ought to have, any Iurisdiction, Power, Superiority, Preheminence or Authority Ecclesiastical or Spiritual within this Realm; and therefore I do utterly renounce and forsake all forein Iurisdictions, Powers, Superiorities and Authorities; and do promise that from henceforth I shall [...]ear Faith and true Alleageance to the Kings Highness, his Heirs and lawfull Successors, and to my power shall assist and defend all Iurisdictions, Privileges, Preheminences and Authorities, granted or belonging to the Kings Highness, his Heirs and Successors, or united and annexed to the Imperial Crown of the Realm.

Thus oblig'd to their duty they chuse a Speaker, whom they accompany to the King, whose Election they desire him to ratifie, whom the King usually is pleased with, which done, the Speaker in his own and the House of Commons name gives thanks, and beseeches, That the Lower House may use their Privileges and freedom of debating; That if any therein shall happen to be more earnest in his own opinion, his Majesty will vouchsafe not to take it ill, nor be angry, and that they may have access to the Kings Majesty or Higher House, as oft as matters require▪ which leave being granted, they are dismissed.

Both Houses have free liberty to debate of matters propounded by the King, or touching making or abrogating Laws, and to determine; to commit to writing what is to be transmitted to each other by Messenger; whereto if upon debate had, there ensue an assent by Votes, the consent is noted upon the top of the Bill in this form, amongst the Lords, Les Seigneurs ont assentes; among the Commons, Les Communes ont assentes: but if they differ, both Houses (not seldom) meet, or else principal persons chosen out of them, to confer together in a commodious place for their meeting in the Painted Chamber; there the Commons standing and uncovered, with great observance, receive the Lords, covered and sitting, and there they confer; if they discord, that business comes to nothing; but if they agree, they present it to the King, which if he allows, he writes, Le Roy le veult, and so, as by a Soul infused into a Body, it receives life, and becomes an effectual Law, forthwith to be promulgated to the People; but when the King refuses to approve it, he [Page] writes on the top of the Leaf, Le Roy s' avisera; sometimes he denies it in terminis, and thereupon are reputed dasht.

The sacred matters the King permits not to be handled by Parliaments, Ecclesiastical matters. but Synods, unless (it may be) for the force of Laws from Parliamentary Authority, which they cannot so fully obtain from their divine verity. The Deans, Arch-Deacons, Procuratours for the Chapters, as also for every Arch-Deaconry, the former being delegated by the Suffrages of the Prebendaries, these of the Ministers, meet in a place assigned to debate touching them, where having first chosen a Prolocutor in the name of the Clergy, they determine concerning Heads of Religion, Ceremonies, and other matters belonging to the Church; as also granting of Subsidies to the King; whose Results notwithstanding, are not obtruded on the Seculars to be observed with the Authority of Laws, untill (as above-said) they be allowed by assent of King and both Houses, being provided, That Civil hands should not intermeddle in these affairs.

Our Chronicles tell us, That Queen Elizabeth expostulates with the Parliament, for that they had appointed a Fast without her advice, and were not restored to her favour▪ but upon obtaining of Pardon.

Both Houses have respectively their peculiar Privileges.

To the higher House, Lords Privileges. not onely to give counsels and to assist in making Laws, but likewise to exercise the power of Iudicature, and so of imposing Oaths in the more weighty causes, as corruption of Iudges and Magistrates, and in last Appeals, which yet to bring back to examen, without the Kings permission and Patent, (the Lawyers say) is praeter-legal, nor do they so, unless the Judges of Law sitting by.

The House of Commons have Privileges of supplicating and craving Right, Lower House. or else the Accusers part, never challenged to it self the Office of Judg, save within their own Walls, and on their proper Members; and that extended no farther than penalty of Imprisonment, or Mulct; never having any right of pressing an Oath; and therefore in a Statute the House of Commons say, That seeing Parliamentary Iudicature belongs to the King and Lords and not to the Commons, that they might not be obliged contrary to Custom to give Iudgment.

If any doubt touching the Election of their Members, it was heretofore determined by the Lords House, or by the Judg of the Kings Chancery.

If any of them had departed from the Houses without the Kings leave, and both Houses also, he was convened before the Kings Council-table, or Kings Bench, to undergo the penalty, and was not punished at the discretion of his own House of Commons.

[Page] But they have Privilege first to debate and determine of levying money among the People.

This was the temperament of King, Parliament, and People in proper parts, not harming each other;Harmony of all. for the Kings supreme Authority and Sword is as a sufficient power to vindicate the Laws from the Factions of the Grands and popular Tumults; whilest in the mean time, the Lords with that chief Authority wherewith they are vested of Iudicature and Legislation, put a curb, on one hand to the Kings Tyranny (if he extravagate) on the other, to the tumultuating populace; and in semblable manner, the People, by that their power of accusing whom they please, and of granting or denying moneys, are in a sufficient capacity to retrench the licentiousness of the Nobility, and of the Kings Counsellours, and break the Kings impetuous incroching on the publick.

The Laws have exceedingly provided, That the freedom of voting and debating be not hindered, through fear of insolent persons; therefore none may come into either of their Houses, with a Sword, or armed.

The Members and their Servants not to be arrested for Debt, or offences, though of a mean alloy, and if any so attached, he may not be free, but by a Writ out of the Chancery.

Seldom, and that upon weighty cause, would Kings create offence to so venerable an Assembly; however it hath so faln out, that excellent Princes upon too great provocations have reprehended the Senate, and punisht some Offenders, convening them before the Judges of the Kingdom, imprisoned, fined, and put to death sometimes.

Thus (by past) stood the state of Parliaments, when the King came in,King, Queen, and Prince ride in triumph. and calls one in March; the King, Queen, and Prince some days before rode from the Tower to his Palace of White-hall, in such Triumph as the several Pageants at each convenient place, with excellent Oratory, assured them the affections and duty of his Subjects, as they did some days afterwards when the like occasion presented them in state to this Parliament.

And as usual with all Sovereigns his Predecessours,First Session of Parliament. themselves or Chancellour, sweetens the Members with some Rhetorical Oration, to the purpose of calling that Assembly; and this the King undertakes now, as best able of any Prince his Predecessours, or any other Assistant, for wit or wisdom to compare with him: and therein he lays open his heart to both Houses, in a very long Speech. But because it is in print, and bound with the Volume of his Works, I shall adventure to abreviate here, for some light to the Reader, in this History which follows. But then, in this, as in other his most eloquent and gracefull Speeches hereafter, where you meet with any of his, to turn Martial his Apostrophe upon me.

[Page]Tu male jam recitas, incipit esse tuus.

And first, he discovers his real constitution and thankfulness in three Forms and Reasons of his Convention of them.The Kings speech in Parliament abreviated.

In the first he renders to them (the Representatives of his People) his Princely thanks, for their affection in receiving him in his Right to the Crown.

The other two,2, 3. he describes by the effect of his Actions, and shews them the blessing of his Person, in their outward Peace with his Neighbours, with whom he found this State imbroiled.

Secondly,Peace and Unity in Religion and Manners. Peace within, issuing not onely by his lineal descent from Henry 7. in the union of the two Houses of Lancaster and York, but also the union of these two Kingdoms, illustrated in the conformities of Religion, Language and Manners; in their security of salvation, encompassed with a Wall of Water, and therefore, Quae Deus conjunxit nemo separet. And he being the Husband, Head, and Shepherd, advises them to a joyfull Union, by comparison of this blessing in the Union of the petty Principalities, heretofore of this Nation, into one Kingdom; as also the composure of divers Duchies in the entire Monarchy of France, those being happy though conjoyned by the Spear of Bellona; but we, the greater blessing, being bound up by the Wedding-Ring of Astrea, having an appearance of perpetuity in the blessing of h [...]s hopefull Issue, and his profession of true Religion, which he distinguishes from the Catholick Papist, and also from another Sect (rather than a Religion) which he calls a Puritan Novellist, differing from Truth in a confused Form of policy and parity insufferable.

He acknowledgeth the Roman-Church to be our Mother-Church, defiled with some Infirmities, as the Iews Church before Christ Crucified▪ But as not wishing a sick man dead, but his body to be purged, Excusable in the Laicks, either as well minded subjects, inured thereto by birth and custom of Age, or young by evil Education, and therefore not to punish their Bodies, for the Errors of their Mindes.

As for their Clericks, their doctrine and practice insufferable; The Arrogancie of the Popes Supremacie in the One, and Murthering Kings in the other. Otherwise he doth reverence Antiquity, in the points of Ecclesiasticall Policie, and so cleers himself from Heresie in Faith, or Schism in Government. But with this Caution to all, as he is a friend to their Persons, so an Enemy to their Errors. Advising the Bishops, by their Exemplary Life to convince the others doctrine.

The third Reason of calling this Parliament, in the action [Page] of his thankfullness is, first, in making Some Laws, by preserving the weal of the Kingdom, and in discretion, of not making too many, because In corruptissima Republica plurimae Leges; Secondly in execution of them, by the Iudges and Magistrates; whom he advises not to utter their affections in that Office, of Hate to a Foe, or Love to a Friend, fear to offend the Great, or pitty to the misery of the meaner, but to be blind in distinction of Persons, Handless for bribes; and therefore describes them, three principall qualities, Knowledge to discern, Courage and Sincerity to execute.

And thus having told them the three causes, tending only to his thankfullness but in divers forms. The first by Word, the Other by Actions, he concludes himself to be Inutilis servus; His felicity consist [...]ng in their prosperity; and gives them his Apologie for three things, expected from him by so many; advancement of Honor, preferment of credit, and reward in Land. In all he hath been reasonable and honorable, for refreshing some persons that were Members of a Multitude, and if his infirmity hath exceeded, He blames the Importunity of Suters, which experience, time, and labour shall recover, to teach his Subjects not to crave, nor he to grant.

The Parliament unused to Princely Eloquence and Learning withall,Union with Scotland intended. contracted their dutyfull affections to his Eminent virtues, and willingly understood the Kings ayme, to unite also the two Kingdomes; which was soon put forward by proclamation of his Title of Great Britain, our coins, all Ensignes of honor quartering this Conjunction of crosses, Red cross for England, and Saint Andrews white for Scotland.

And the Parliament by act, Commissionate eight Lords and twenty Commons to treat with other Commissioners Scotchmen, for the honour and profit of both Nations.

The King thus far setled with his Parliament and people, not without wonder of all our Neighbour Nations,Ambassadours for Peace. having lain at watch for conveniencie and honor, to piece with so potent a Prince, the advantages alike to either.

They came almost together, The Constable of Castile from Spain, and another from the Arch-Duke, Rory Duke of Solia from France, to treat of Peace, Barnevelt from the Netherlands. Solia was a gallant Man, an excellent Courtier as they are all. His business needed no other policy of State, but to congratulate the Kings peacable and happy Possession, for they had a Leiger in Scotland, that came in with the King. But the other two were Enemies, and were to treat for establishing a firm Peace, which was granted,Co: and ch: pa. and do doubt they might make up of their Masters bounty to be so soon dispatcht, for France mightily opposed, and with little cunning of our Counsel, the Spaniards [Page] dealt their golden Pistols to hit the mark. And as they lay equally ready, so their desires for Convoy hither, came together and had order accordingly. Sir Robert Mansell Vice-Admiral for the Narrow-Seas attended at Graveling for the Spaniard. And his Vice-Admiral of the Fleet Sir Ierom Turner at Calais for the French, who coming first disputed the choice, and desired the Admirals ship, but being told that he was commanded by Commission for the Other; Monsieur in much disdain, put himself in the French Passage-boat, and in a brave, bore his flag on the Top. Mansel commands Turner to shoot a warning and after to hit, who took in his flag; but complained at Court, where his faction was powerfull: yet the Justice and honor of that old Custom and Authority, maintains his Act against them all, being in himself besides, a gallant brave Commander.

The Puritan was much troubled to be ranked with the Papist in the Kings Parliament Speech, and to be termed so: and somewhat they said too saucy, and therfore were to expect more cause to chaw the cud▪ for the King proclames all Conformity to the form of Gods Service,Proclamation to conformity in Church-discipline. established in Doctrine and Discipline to Gods Word, and the Primitive Church; that the Conference of late at Hampton Court concluded no cause of alteration, notwithstanding the fiery pretended Zelots renewed the Question in Parliament, and had been satisfied by the Kings Speeches and otherwise; that particular and personal abuses are remediable other ways than by general alteration. That all shall conform and have warning till the last of November next, o [...] otherwise to dispose of themselves or Families, to other meet persons in their places, July 1604.

These men were now stark mad, and intelligence hereof they send to their dear Brethren in Scotland, that they should be enforced also to conform to the utter destruction of their Sion there. To qualifie this News, another Proclamation comes out in September after, against such calumnious surmises. That the King will not alter that Form of Government, proper for their constitution, without Counsel there; and so refers mens [...]xpectation to the general Assembly to meet at Dundee in Scotland in July after.

It was usual with the Presbyters in Scotland to have a general Assembly once a year,Assembly of the Church in Scotland in spite of the King. and oftner, pro re nata, upon any urgent occasion. The last was a little before the Kings coming hither, 1602. And the next this appointed at Aberdene this year, and therefore then adjourns that Meeting, (unto which he especially had an eye, as mistrusting their ill humors) to this Summer, 1604. And now also prorogues it to a longer day by Proclamation in Scotland. Notwithstanding thirteen of them convene at Aberdene, and in spite of the Council Authority, they formallized their Judicature by constituting a Moderator, a Clerk, and other [Page] essential Members. The Privy Council there send a Messenger accompanied with a Herald of Arms, to discharge and dissolve their Meeting. These holy Fathers in this Sanhedrim, protested, They would not, nor could, give way to the Kings sacrilegious power usurped, which properly belonged to the Church virtual the Assembly, and so sat still till they pleased, and after appointed a day for the next Assembly. The King hears of this, and commands them to be cited and punished.

These men undanted, appear with a Protestation, a Declination from the Kings Council, and appeal to their own next General Assembly, as the sole and competent Judg; and were therefore pursued criminally before their Lord Iustice General upon the Act of Parliament, 1584. for Treason.

Some of them acknowledged their fault, the rest (Zelots) were convict ad terrorem, and banished, and after upon submission, were restored to better Benefices.

The excellent Acts and Laws in this Session prorog [...]ed to the fifth of November, Hist. Gr. Brit. p. 27. I finde our voluminous Historian passes over, excepting against their number too tedious for his brevity, being unwilling to mention any thing of so much honour to the King, though he can waste time and paper to tell you, that the blessing of his Initiation Peace and Plenty, brought idle people to Luxury; Roaring-boys, Bravadoes, Roisters, and makes it a fault in the King, that he breeds his People no better.

The Parliament began the 19. of March, 1603. and continued untill the 7. of Iuly 1604. and then prorogued unto the 7. of February.

In this Parliament they made a Recognition of the lawfull descending of the Crown to the King, his Progeny and Posterity.

Commissioners of England and Scotland for to treat of the Union.

That no Bishop should assure Lands to the King.

Former Statutes against Recusants to be executed.

Divers other Statutes concerning the City and several Towns Corporate, as also other Statutes for the good of the Land.

And conclude with a Subsidy of Tunnage and Poundage of Wools, &c.

The Kings second Son Charls, heretofore in Scotland created Duke of Albany, The Kings second Son Charls created Duke of York. Marquess of Ormond, Count Ross, and Lord of Ardmannoth, is now this year created Duke of York, by the girding of the Sword, Cap and Circlet of Gold put upon his Head, and golden Verge into his Hand, to him and his Heirs males for ever, with the Fee of fourty pounds per annum, out of the issue and profits of that County. He is made by Patent▪ and witnessed by all the Lords of the Privy Council and other Peers of the Realm at Westminster, the 6. of Ianuary, 2. Iac. 1604.

[Page] K. Edw. 3. by his Charter created Edward his eldest Son the black Prince Duke of Cornwall cum feodo, to him and his Heirs the first begotten Sons and Dukes of the same place; so that he that is hereditable Duke of Cornwall is Dux natus, non creatus; and the first day of his birth is in Law presumed to be of full age, and may sue out his Livery, as at one and twenty years; and this was the first Duke in England; the reason may be, because the Norman Kings themselves were Dukes of Normandy, for a long time they adorned none with this Honour of Duke.

The Papists had very evil success in all their Designs heretofore against Queen Elizabeth and her Religion, Pouder Treason. and were somewhat quieted, in hopes that the Kings reception hither, might prove troublesom, and so proper for them to work in such waters: but the Kings late Speech was desperately understood; for they being denied Toleration, plot his and the whole States destruction, by blowing up all in the House of Parliament; A story so horrid, and therefore so necessary to be communicated, to the memorial of our Childrens Children.

The Parliament having been twice prorogued already,Pouder Treason the story. in regard of the Seasons of the year and the Terms; The time drawing near their Sitting, upon Saturday ten days before, about seven of the clock at night, a Letter sealed was delivered by an unknown Fellow unto a Foot-man of the Lord Mounteagle, Son and Heir to the Lord Morley, charging him to give it to his Lords own hands, who opening the same, found it without Date or Subscription, and in Letters not easily legible, and the matter to him, less intelligible; but as God would have it, he in this doubt, repairs herewith to the Earl of Salisbury, principal Secretary of State, who also in some doubt of the construction, the King being absent, in his return from Roiston, they acquainted the Lord Chamberlain the Earl of Su [...]folk herewith, and after consultation they joyned the Lord Admiral, the Earls of Worcester and Northampton, but stayed all manner of proceeding, untill the Kings coming Thursday night next after.

Salisbury shews it him. The Letter was.

MY Lord,

out of the love I bear to some of your Friends, I have a care of your preservation; therefore I would advise you, as you tender your Life, to devise some Excuse, to shift off your attendance this Parliament, for God and Man have concurred to punish the wickedness of this Time. And think not slightly of this Advertisement, but retire your self into your Countrey, where you may expect the event in safety; for though there be no appearance of any s [...]ir, yet I say, they shall receive a terrible Blow this Parliament, and yet they shall not see who hurts them.

This counsel is not to be contemned, because it may do you good, [Page]and can do you no harm, Anno 1605. for the danger is past so soon as you have burnt the Letter: and I hope God will give you the grace to make good use of it; to whose holy protection I commend you.

The King conceived the Letter not to be contemned, the stile quick and pithy, not usual with Libells, and judged the words [terrible Blow this Parliament, and not see who hurts them] to be meant by Gun-pouder, joyning thereto the other words [For the danger is past so soon as you have burnt the Letter] to be meant sudden and quick danger, as the blaze of Paper by fire. This was the most happy construction of [burning the Letter] which in truth, was onely as the ordinary advice in Letters of secrecy, to burn them, lest they should tell Tales, or bring danger to the person receiving them.

However, at the next Meeting with the other Lords, it was determined to search and view the Rooms of the Parliament-Houses, by my Lord Chamberlain, to whose place it belongs, where the Vault under the Lords House was stuft with Wood and Coals, hired by Master Thomas Piercy, Kinsman to the Earl of Northumberland, for his private use, lodging in the Keepers house, one Whineyard. Piercy was a violent Papist, and Mounteagles Friend, who presently made judgment, that the Letter might come from him: so that the care and further search was committed unto Sir Thomas Knevet, a Iustice of the Peace for Westmi [...]ster, who the night before the Parliament, at twelve of the clock with competent assistance, at the very entrance without the Door of the Lodgings, they seize in safety one Guido Fauks, calling himself I [...]hn Iohnson, and Piercie's man, booted and drest so late. Then searching the Vault, and removing some Billets, they found six and thirty Barrels of Pouder, and after in Fauks his Pocket three Matches, a Dark Lanthorn, and other Implements, nay, the Watch, therewith to tell the Minutes for Execution. All which he soon confessed, and that had he been within, they should all together have found the effects of sudden destruction.

About four of the clock Knevet presently acquaints the former Lords, who arise and tell the King, that all was discovered, and one man in custody. Instantly the Council convene, examine Fauks, who of a Roman resolution, refuses to discover any Complices, owns the Plot himself, moved onely for Religion and Conscience, being a Papist, denying the King to be his lawfull Sovereign, but an Heretick.

But the next day carried to the Tower, and threatned with the Rack, his Roman guise visibly slackened, and by degrees he appeared, relenting, and so confessed all.

That a Practice in general against the King for relif of the [Page] Catholicks was propounded to him about Easter was Twelve-moneth beyond Sea, in Flanders, by Thomas Winter, and after in England was imparted to Robert Catesby, Thomas Piercy, and Iohn Wright, and Catesby designed the way to blow up the Parliament, Fauks his Conf [...]ssion of the Design. because (he said) as Religion was suppressed there, Iustice and Punishment should be there executed.

Piercy hires a House near the Parliament House, and began our Mine, December 11. 1604. The Work-men were these five, and after that another, Christophor Wright: the Mine wrought to the very Wall was so thick, that we took in another Labourer, Robert [...]Winter; and whilest these work, Fauks watcht Sentinel, always with Muskets and Arms, rather to die than be taken.

But being half way through the thick Wall, they heard a noise on the other side, removing Sea-coals in the Cellar adjoyning, which so pat for their purpose, Piercy hired Coals and Cellar for a Twelve-moneth, and so saved their other labor, and fitted the Cellar with Wood and Pouder.

That about Easter the Parliament prorogued till October, they all dispersed, and Fauks retired to the Low Countreys, to acquaint Owen with the Plot, and returned about September, and with-drew into the Countrey till October 30.

That the same day of Execution, some other Confederates should have surprized the Princess Elizabeth, at the Lord Harington's in Warwickshire, and proclamed her Queen.

He confessed, that others were privy to this Conspiracy. Sir Everard Digby, Ambrose Rockwood, Francis Tresham, Iohn Graunt, and Robert Keys.

The next apprehended was Thomas Winter, who in some seeming compunction and sorrow,Th. Winter's Confession of the Plot, discovery and success. wrote his voluntary Confession.

That in the first year of King Iames to this Crown, 1603. I was sent for to come up to London to Iohn Wright at Lambeth, (called Faux Hall) where he first informed me of this Pouder-Treason, to blow up the Parliament, that the nature of the Disease required sharp Remedy, and so we agreed; and my Design was to go over to Bergen-op-Zome, to petition the Constable of Castile, ready there to come over Ambassadour for his Catholick Majesty, by whose means here the Catholicks might have favor; and there I met Guido Fauks, and brings him over to Catesby about Easter Term, and met also behinde St. Clements Strand, with Piercy and Wright, where we take Oath of secrecy, hear Mass, and receive the Sacrament, (and so sorth, as Fauks hath confessed) onely we resolved to convey their Pouder by degrees unto Catesby's house at Lambeth, and so to be brought over by Boat when the Mine was ready, and received one Keys as a trusty man, for our purpose.

[Page] In the time of their Mining, they framed their Plot into some fashion, what to do for the Duke as next Heir, the King and Prince Henry blown up, Piercy undertakes with his Confederates to seize the Duke at St. Iames, whilest most of his Servants might be about Westminster, and with Horses ready at the Court-gate, to horse him away into the Countrey, whilest most men amazed at the Blow, the Duke might easily be mastered.

And for the Princess Elizabeth in the Countrey, some Friends gathered together under colour of Hunting, near my Lord Harington's, might seize her to Catesby's house, which was not far off, at Ashby, and he undertakes for that.

They provide for Money and Horses, and to save as many Catholick Lords, as could be advised to forbear the Parliament. Next, that forein Princes could not be enjoyned secrecy, nor oblig'd by Oath, nor were they sure that such would approve their Plot; if they did, yet to prepare so long before, might beget suspition: the same Letter that carried the News of the Execution, might intreat for assistance and aid.

That Spain his motion (like a large Body) was too slow, in his preparations in the first of Extremities.

France too near and dangerous, who with Holland shipping, they feared most.

And because the charge of the work hitherto, lay hard upon Catesby, they called in Sir Everard Digby, who frankly lent fifteen hundred pounds to the business, and Mr. Francis Tresham two thousand pounds, and Piercy promised all the Earl of Northumberland's Rents, which he would seize, near forty thousand pounds, and ten Horses.

And because they were informed that the Prince would be absent from the Parliament, they resolved of more company to seize him, and to horse him away on the other side of the Thames, and let the Duke alone.

Two days after this discourse, being Sunday, comes news to Thomas Winter of a Letter to Mounteagle to advise him to absent from the Parliament, which Letter was carried to the Earl of Salisbury; Winter tells this to Catesby and Tresham, whom they suspected: but all forswear the Letter, and resolve to see the issue, which they feared would fail of their purpose; but on Munday, Catesby resolves to go to Ashby, and Piercy to follow.

Tuesday early comes the younger Wright, and tells Winter, that he is going to call up the Earl of Northumberland at Essex house, where they both finde one Lepton got on hors-back at Essex gate, which was conceived to seek out Piercy; but Winter going to White-hall, findes the Gates shut, and the way to Westminster guarded; and being told that a Treason was discovered to blow up the Parliament, he hasts to his Horse and gallops down to [Page] Catesby to Dunschurch, the place of Rendezvouz. On Thursday they meet there, seize Arms at the Lord Windsors, and that night to Master Stephen Littleton's house, one of their number; when news came that Catesby was burnt by accident of drying their Pouder, Littleton advises Winter to fly, he would not, till he might see his Friends, Catesby's body, and bury it; but finding him reasonable well, with Piercy, Wright, Rockwood, and Grant, they all resolved to keep together, to fight and die; when the Countrey came in, both the Wrights killed, Catesby and Piercy with one Bullet, and Winter wounded and taken.

This was his Confession and true, but the whole story was thus interwoven.

The News spread abroad of this Accident,The story p [...]t together in brief. being on Tuesday morning the fifth of November, and the first day of Parliament; Winter and the two brothers Wrights hasten out of Town; for Catesby and Piercy were gone the morning before, and all of them towards their Rendezvouz in Warwickshire, towards Coventre; where the very next day (about the hour that Fauks was taken at Westminster) Iohn Grant with others his companions (all Papists) broke open Benock's Stable, (a Rider of great Horses in that County) and carried away all, being eight of them; and so both this company, as also those which fled out of London, met at Dunchurch, Sir Everard Digby's house, on Tuesday night, having appointed a Match of Hunting the next morning, according to their former plotting.

But finding their treachery prevented, and not prevailing by a private villany, they now resolve to practise publick Rebellion, to make up their wickedness any way. And first, grounded their cause, Religion; with some provisions of Ammunition, Army, Pouder, and Horses, they roved up and down to gather company; by whose example it was possible, some other such like in other Counties might joyn Forces considerable to raise a Rebellion: of themselves, never in number above eighty Serving-men and Hors-boys, who were watcht hourly for fear of quitting their Masters quarrel; and so wandring through these Counties of Warwick and Worcester, were by the Sheriff of Worcester, taken, killed, or disperst about Habbuch, Stephen Littleton's house.

Strange were the Accidents which brought the Countrey upon them; for as yet, the Kings Proclamations had not reacht thither, nor was their Treason discovered to them. But the Riot of Grant forcing the House for the Horses, was an insolency pursued with Hue and Cry among the Commons, that the Countrey rise to know the reason. Sir Fulk Grevil the elder, was then Lieutenant of Warwickshire, whose wisdom soon apprehended the danger to be the Indices of Rebellion; instantly seizes Ammunition [Page] and Arms of all; about him either absent from home, or doubtfull, and with such further directions, that a poor Smith got hold on Winter, who was rescued by his company, and sixteen taken by the Towns-men, and by the Sheriff Sir Richard Verney sent Prisoners to London.

Sir Richard Walsh of Worcestershire pursues them to Littleton's house, as aforesaid, and there makes a stand, sends a Trumpet to command obedience to him, as his Majesties Minister and Sheriff, and not knowing more of their Treason, than was visible by the Tumult, promises to intercede with the King, to spare their punishment of Death. They as best witnesses to their own consciences and high demerit, return him in scorn, That he must get more help, ere he be able to defend himself.

And whilest thus at parley without, the principal of them within, drying two pound of Pouder, far enough from the Chimney, yet a Spark flew out, and fell amongst it, blew up another Bag-full (but not fired) and so maimed and disabled Catesby himself, Rockwo [...]d, Grant, and others of greatest account, thereby made unable of forceable defence, and wonderfully amazed, with horror of conscience thus to be met with, by mischief of their own Mineral, (In quo peccamus, in eodem plectimur) as forthwith falling down on their knees, prayed to God for pardon of their sins, opened the Gates, and desperately seeking their own destruction; Catesby and Piercy back to back were killed with one shot, and both the Brothers Wrights, and others slain; Winter, Tresham, and the rest taken alive, were sent to the next Gaol, and so up to London, and were met with by such a concourse of people out of the City, as the like were never seen▪ wise and weak, women and children, wondring at these Monsters.

Tresham in the Tower died of a Strangury; the two Winters, Grant, Rockwood, Digby, Fauks, Keys, and Bates, were each of them at several times and places arreigned, condemned, and executed as in case of Treason.

To disjoyn them in their Designs.

These labored in the Mine.
These were afterwards engaged to them.

Esquires.

Robert Catesby

Robert Winter

Gentlemen.

Thomas Piercy

Thomas Winter

Iohn Wright

Christop. Wright

Guido Fauks

Thomas Bates,—Catesby's Man.

Knight.

Sir Everard Digby,

Esquires.

Ambrose Rockwood

Francis Tresham

Gentleman.

Iohn Grant,

Robert Keys.

[Page] The second Session of this Parliament prorogued till the 5. of November, and being on the fourth day met again, they enlarged other excellent Laws against Papists; wisely discerning, how that creeping Monarchy of Rome, Second Session of Parliament. by her Arch-Instruments the Jesuits had already planted five Schools, as fit bates in divers reformed states, intending so to tempt those well-believing people, with that old forbidden Tree of knowledg, as they might sinne desperately against their Sovereign before they knew it. But the Parliament enacted the Anniversary Commemoration of this day to be observed for ever, with thanksgiving to God for this delivery, of which a Man may hardly assure any long continuance; Are we bound more to obey it, than the statutes of God Almighty for solemnity of several Festivals, which all Christians observe, and we onely neglect? And asscribing the discovery of this Powder-plot to the divine spirit of the King, by his Interpreting the dark phrases of the Letter to Mounteagle, Three intire subsidies and six fifteens. They gave to the King three intire subsidies and six fifteens together, with four subsidies of four shillings in the pound granted by the Clergie, amounting in all to four hundred fifty and three thousand pounds.

And Caecil for his good service was Created Earl of Salisbury. Several Acts.

The Acts in this Session were these.

Certain Persons attainted of the Gun-Powder Treason and their Estates Confiscate.

An Act to prevent and avoid dangers of Papists Recusants.

To avoid the City and Court, unless Inhabitants here disabled from Offices, nor to practise Law, nor Physick. Penalty one hundred pounds, wonderfull strickt.

Act for free Trade of all Merchants to Spain, Portingal and France as well as others, that have Incorporate Charters.

Against Misdemeanors of Attornies and Solicitors of the Law.

Act for a New-River-water to be cut from Chadwell, and Amwell springs in Hartfordshire to London.

And the King grants the People a General Pardon, with the usual Exceptions.

And now also was framed a form of Oath, called an Oath of Alleageance for distinction of good Subjects in General from unfaithfull Traytors, but especially to make separation of the Popishly affected, yet with Natural duty unto Sovereignty.

And the Oath was thus in effect. The effect of the Oath of Alleageance. That King James is lawfull King of this Realm; That the Pope may not depose him, or dispose of his, Nor authorise any other Prince to invade him, or to discharge any of his Subjects their Alleageance; or to beare Arms against him: And that, notwithstanding any Act by the Pope, or [Page] other authority, he will bear faith and alleageance to his Majesty, and will disclose all Treasons and Conspiracies against him, and doth abhor as impious; that any Prince deprived by the Pope, may be deposed or murthered; That the Pope nor any other hath power to absolve this Oath, and renounces all pardon to the contrary, without any equivocation, or mental reservation whatsoever, so help him God, &c.

And accordingly sundry both Priests and Laiks did freely take the same,Taken by Papists. when suddenly comes over a Breve from Pope Paulus quintus Inhibiting utterly, all Papists from taking the same, rather to endure all Torments, nay, death it self, Rome, October 1606.The Popes Bull against the Oath. And the next year another Breve confirming this, September 1607. And accompanied with a Letter of Cardinal Bellarmine unto George Blackwell the Arch-Priest of the English, being then in some bonds, whom therefore the Cardinal suspected, would take the same as he did.

To all these the King most learnedly gives answer,The Kings Apologie and Preface to take the oath. and in six days compiles and publishes in print, an Apologie for that Oath, and in a week sets out a Monitory Preface, to that Apologie, and solemnly presents it by Ambassy to the Emperour, and to every King and State in Christendom, as a peculiar concernment to all, and each of them in the due temporal Obedience of their Subjects. And herein the King instances Examples of several Emperours, requiring Obedience from Popes, Creation of Popes, ordaining their Seat and Dignities, and of all Bishops, with Anathema, against all such as disobeyed their Sentence, as also deposing of Popes.

Hereupon the Venetians maintained that doctrine in their writings,Justified by forein Princes. and put it in Execution. The Sorbons did the like in France. And those writers of their own that opposed it, were so over-lashed, as that they were corrected and castigated by Men of their Religion, Becanus his book corrected by the Cardinals of Rome; Bellarmines book burnt at Paris: Suares his answer, burnt also in France. Certainly, by this his Majesties premonition, Kings and Princes had a more perfect discovery into the injury offered to them by the Pope in the points of their temporal power, and it followed to be throughly disputed in Christendom by this occasion of the King.

This the King did for the present. But there was a swarm of busie-heads, that measured the mysteries of State, by the rule of their own conceited wisdomes, gave Arguments to suppress the Popish practises by Executing all their Priests. The reasons may be gleaned out of their rash opinions.

That a dead Man bites not, that mercies offered for a desperate Malefactor, do but enlarge his adventures against King and Countrey. That a hard hand suddainly remitted, is seldom [Page] by the rude people interpreted to the best sence. No hope of reformation, where there's no confession of the fault; and to banish them, may be supposed a meer shift to rid the Prisons of those, whom Conscience could not condemn of Crime: whilst Justice seems to sleep, the time serves to raise factions; for fearfull Spirits by sufferance grow insolent and cruel.

And to the Exceptions of their small Number it was argued, that Union in a prepared conspiracie, prevailes more than Number.

If that the Oath of Supremacie heretofore, choked not their presumptuous imagination, nor now can the temporal power of the King contained in the Oath of Alleageance preserve us, or deter them. A Popish Priest his Character is a disloyal Renegado. Delinquents in lesser degrees, may challenge easier punishments, and so be incouraged. The penalty to be executed on them, they scandall, by pretending the conversion from the Kings Exchequer to Our private purse. That being restrained will prove like Bonner and Gardner in the time of Queen Mary, seeing most men write good turns in Sand, and bad in the Marble.

That the Jesuits divide the English into four Sects.Jesuits divide the English into four sects. Themselves first; and assume a full fourth part to their property; and of that part, they subdivide into two portions, viz. The rigid non-Conformists, and the Church-Papists. The Second they allot to the Protestants, who detain say they, some of their Relicks. The third and largest was left to the Puritans. The last to the Politician senza di [...], & senza anima. The first then being assuredly theirs, the last we will afford them also; and therefore the safest way to prevent Combination, is to make them hop headless.

The Presbyter indeed would hang them all; but this Counsel most unchristian.

To answer them it was urged.Their opinion refuted. That although death be the end of Temporal misery, it is not the grave of memory: Justice may execute the person; but his opinion made publick, it is not subject to the sword: where poyson is diffused, through the veins of good and bad blood, Evacuation is better than Incision. Clemencie is divine, and works supernaturall effects, though they merit by suffering: and though Bellarmine & Parsons, provoke them to thrust their finger into the fire, by refusing the Oath of Alleageance; yet the wisest of them, had rather see others act, then themselves feel the smart.

That Garnet lamented, that he should not be inrolled as a Martyr, because no matter of Religion was objected; yet he would gladly have survived that Glory, if any such hopes had remained. The English exceed the Romans in zeal of Papistry, [Page] and are naturally better fortifyed to indure death; If so that terror prevails not, Religion and Conscience less. Visne muliebre Consilium, said Livia to Augustus; let severity sleep, and try, what the pardoning of Cinna will produce. That death of Priests,See before anno pa. 1542. pa. 9 assures more to their Sect, then ever their words could perswade: and though such are but counterfeit Martyrs, yet will they be otherwise so reputed by those, that lay their Soules in pawn, unto their doctrine, with whom multitude of voices, cry down our contraries, for the Gate of their Church is wide, and many enter therein.

And as uncharitable are these, that would imprison them perpetually;And Imprisonment as bad. and that the means to catch them, was to have good Intelligence beyond Sea and at home; Sir Francis Walsingham, had of his, so active, that an English Seminary could not stir out of Rome, Spain, or Flanders (their several Nurseries) without his privity; and so forewarn'd, they may be catcht at our ports, and removed to prisons: and if they escape there and go disguised, yet they may be disclosed by many, if the punishment were not death, but only immuring in dead walls.

The penalty of Recusants in a stock, would pay the charges.

Perdat fiscus, ut capiat Christus.

Here we finde extremes in both Councils;Best Counsel, to convince them by Preaching. certainly, there is a medium; neither Execution, nor civill destruction (for perpetual Imprisonment) renders a Man civily dead, a better way may be, if we could hint it.

And why not thus. Let Preachers use the spirit against them, not as usual to wast an houre-glass, to skirmish against government and discipline. How can we draw others to our Church, without a foundation of our own, not like undiscreet Dogs to bark at all, but to distinguish; A child that sucks Popery from the breast, must needs speak the voice of Papists.

It was the Kings saying and distinction.

A great cause of continuance of Papistry in common people is, That being fuller of Pagentry than Doctrine, and the old sent of Roman perfume; The common obedience of coming to Church, more expected, than the instruction of private families, or by publick Catechising; The first Elements are to be learn'd at home, and were orderly contained in the Book of Common-prayer, by instruction first, and then Confirmation of the Bishops. This excellent foundation laid by the fathers of the Church, should not be despised by their children. In former times Ministers haunted the Houses of worthyest men; Countrey-Churches with the best of the Shire; Prayer, and preaching hand in hand together: then Papists smelled ranck; therefore for shame, they resorted to our Churches and Exercises.

[Page] This was the Counsel then,Anno 1606. but start-ups with intemperate zeal and indiscretion fore-ran the authority of the Magistrate, censuring whatever agreed not with their conceits, and now a days we finde the effect.

The King removes to Greenwich, Leptons [...] to York [...] back. where amongst the ranting Riders at Court, one Io: Lepton of York Esquire, and the Kings Servant, made Matches of Horsmanship with the most in Court, and to approve his skill and strength for a good Wager, rode five several days together between London and York, and so back again the next; for May 20. Munday he set out from Alders-gate at three of the clock in the morning, and came to York between five and six at night: the next morn sent him to London: at six and seven the next morn he set out to York, and came thither at eight; and so within half an hour the same time performed it: and the last day came also to Greenwich to the King by nine of the clock, as spritely and lusty as at the first day, to the wonder of all, till another do the like.

The King of Denmark out of singular affection to his Sister Queen Anne arrives in England, King of D [...] mark land [...] [...] Graves-end. and anchors at Gravesend, where King Iames boards him unexpected, and brings him a Guest to Greenwich, for a Moneth, with such entertainment as Peace and Plenty could possibly afford: and so curious he was, to take a view of things within his Level about London, that disguised, sometimes he took that advantage: but most unwilling to visit the Tower, when he found it a Prison, though from thence he rode in triumph through London, presented with Pageants and costly complements, to shew him the wealth and love of this People.

He might be shy to shut up his Person,Princes for [...] their liberties by coming into another Kingdom without leave. having by the Law of Nations, submitted his freedom, by entring the bounds of another Prince without leave. The Earl of Flanders found the effects, when in his return from thence, to possess his Inheritance of the Kingdom of Spain, and being by storm cast upon our Coast, King Henry 7. disputing some unkindnesses formerly received, (not usual with welcome Guests) the Earl suspecting the danger was fain to yield to all the Kings demands, which was hard in one point, being to deliver up the Countess of Warwick, and other Fugitives resident in Flanders, that took Sanctuary in his Countrey, and so had leave to depart. The other and worse success may be from Mary Queen of Scots, who forfeited her freedom by entring into England, and afterwards her life, by pretence of Treason, as you have heard before, though indeed she wrote to Queen Elizabeth for admittance, but hastily landed without leave.

The Earl of Northumberland, Henry Lord Mordant, and Edward Lord Sturton, not coming to Parliament, according to [Page] Summons by Writ, were more than suspected of the Pouder Treason, and were committed to the Tower: the Barons were fined in Star-chamber, and after some durance paid the money and were released.The Earls of Northumberland and other Lords confederates in the Pouder Treason are committed. The Earl being deeply engaged, was fined there also thirty thousand pounds, and imprisonment during pleasure, (as all such Delinquents are) which severity of Fine towards him was thought more extreme than usually, since the erection of that Court, he continuing Prisoner till 1619. and then paid but eleven thousand pounds in all: the fate of that Family evermore false to the Crown, as Sir Iocelin Piercy was used to say, Seldom Treason without a Piercy.

Camera stellata belonging to the old Palace at Westminster, Of the Star-Chamber beginning and ending. and the 28 Henry 8. called the Starred Chamber, then, as now, had one great Star affixed to the Roof, and one over the Door. The Court seems to have beginning from the Statute of 3 Henry 7. cap. 1. It is ordained, that the Lord Chancellour, Treasurer, Privy Seal, or two of them, calling to them a Bishop and a Temporal Lord of the Kings Council, and the two Chief Justices of the Kings Bench and Common Pleas, or other two Justices in their absence, should have power to punish Routs, Riots, Forgeries, Maintenances, Embraceries, Perjuries, and such like, not sufficiently provided for by the Common Law. But Queen Elizabeth enlarged the number of the Judges. And so now it was honoured with all the Kings Privy Counsellours. See Powel's Att. Acad. And though Delinquents were severely censured in terrorem Populi, yet there was usually a day after every Term where they met to mitigate the Fines and Punishments afterwards to a reasonable summ and Penance. This I put to memory, because that Court is suppressed for ever by the late long Parliament.

There was much ascribed to the Kings wisdom, in the discovery of this Pouder Treason; but the Iesuits had a note of Cecil's name in their Register; not against them as a Day-labourer, that carried some few stones or sticks, but the Master Workman whose forein and domestick Engineers wrought in this Mine of discovery. And therefore was he calumniated with many contumelious Papers and Pasquils, dispersed like Iob's Messengers, one at the others heels.

He takes time to consider, whether to begin a warfare of words, against those with whom disputes are endless, because their end is clamor, untill it was fit to express himself in clear terms; lest any of these clouds which are unjustly cast upon him, might darken the brightness of his Masters royal minde, which hath been always watered with the mildest dew of Mercy and Moderation.

Amongst many he undertakes one directed to the E. of Salisbury.

1. Therein,The Letter. they acknowledg the late Design most inhumane [Page] and barbarous, attempted by undertaking Spirits, more fiery and turbulent than zealous and dispassionate, to the general stain of the State of their catholick cause in the eye of corrupt judgments, not able to farm away the fault of the Professor, from the Profession it self, which abhors the fact, more than any Puritan does.

2. They accuse him the Primus Motor, to determine the [...]ooting out all memory of their Religion, by Banishment, Massacre, Imprisonment, or some such insupportable pressures; or else, the next Parliament to decree more cruel and horrible Laws against them.

3. They threaten, that there are some good men for continuing their Religion, and for saving of many Souls, resolve to prevent it, though with assured Ruine; and admonish him, that five have severally undertaken his Death, by Vow upon the blessed Sacrament, if he continues his daily plotting against them.

That not any of them know the other, for preventing discovery; the first shall attempt by shot, and the rest follow, and all of them glory in their own sacrifice, to prevent the general calamities of Catholicks, which by his transcendent Authority with the King is more than expected.

They tell him, that for the easier digestion of the Danger, two of the Attempters are so weak, they cannot live three moneths; the other three so distressed, for being onely Catholicks, that their grief dulls any apprehension of death.

4. As for themselves that admonish, they know no other means to prevent it, he being the Match to give fire to his Majesty, to whom the worst they wish is, to be as great a Saint in Heaven, as he is a King on Earth. And conclude, Where once true spiritual resolution is, the weak may take sufficient revenge of the mighty.

A. B. C. D. &c.

His Answer.

1. That the Panegyrical Oration of Pope Sixtus Quintus, preferred the Murder of Henry 3. of France, before the act of Iudith to Holofernes, by which Gods people were delivered; onely the Papists make ill interpretations where it fails in execution, (for otherwise, Faelix scelus virtus vocatur) and many other Authors maintain deposing Kings. And wonders, that those who imploy such seditious Spirits, have not by definitive Sentence (wherein the Pope is supposed not to err) explained their assumed power over Princes, for security as well of those which acknowledg his Superiority, as of others which do not approve his Iurisdiction, that Subjects may know their distance of fidelity to either.

As for the former practice by Excommunication, it deprives onely from spiritual graces, without so gross an usurpation as to [Page] destroy their being in nature. The Writ it self, De Excommunicato capiendo, and others such, proceed rather from the goodness of such Christian Kings to work better obedience to the Rules of the Church, than from the power of Excommunication. All Cen [...]ures of the Church having left life untouched, Sive Ethnicus, sive Publicanus. Many Heathens teaching this Rule, Bonos Imperatores Voto expetere oportet, quoscunque tolerare. He marvels at those dark Writings published upon this Accident, against such as shall attempt against Princes by private Authority, but leaves it a tacit lawfulness by publick Warrant, like their gross Equivocation so extolled at Rome, though it sunders all humane conversation. Saint Austin refuses the Priscilian Hereticks in their Equivocation, Corde creditur (says he) ad Iustitiam, ore fit confessio ad salutem, &c. breaking out into expostulation, O fontes lacrymarum! How shall we hide our selves from the displeased face of Truth.

2. That these Calumniations are like Adam's Fig-leafs, unable to cover their shame; for as he sought a covering, Non quia nudus, sed quia lapsus; so is it their fault, not their fear, to cast imputations upon Prince and State, Sed pereuntibus mille figurae. So Nero set Rome on fire, and after laid the blame on Christians. The pecedent Reigns of the two late Sisters of different Religions, more bloud in five or six years of the first, than in five and forty of the second.

Hath this King shewed any print of bloudy steps, rather qualified than added severe Laws? And appeals to their own consciences (judg and witness) whether the fury of this Treason, inflaming many against Catholicks (the nature of sudden peril) hardly admits just distinction) hath committed any one act of bloud or cruelty, under colour of publick safety, Nam crudelit as si a vindicta, justitia est; si a periculo, prudentia. Nay, the King pronounced in open Parliament after, Not to condemn the general for particulars, as a Prince of peace and mercy, deferring execution, which Theodosius, wishing, Se potuisse potius mortuos a morte revocare.

As for the imaginary Power of the Lords of the Council, and himself of the Quorum, he takes it as an honour to receive not onely injury, but persecution in so noble a society, who know that Counsellours for Kings stand for thousands or hundreds, as he pleases to place them. Their greatness growing from humble endeavours, their merit from gracious acceptance; and though they borrow his name as the Boutefeu to make him the Mark of their malice; yet such as judg, the spirit of the Pasquil will hardly imagine, but that this Faction follows, onely the body of Authority, neither head nor members, but also the Church and Common-wealth, which like Hippocrates Twins, have long wept and [Page] laughed together. His greatness being onely in the eye of envy, of those, which ground their faith upon weak principles, if they imagine his distinction (a matter (he says) of so small consequence) can clear them free, from contriving higher practices.

3. To the Protestation, that the five Assassinators having their feet so near the grave, their ghostly Father deserves less thanks to send them thither with Hempen Halters and in bloudy Coffins, not the marks of Rome, Heathen nor Christian; for Victories were scorned, which were barbarously gotten, Mixt is vene no fontibus. And the Arms of the Primitive Church were Tears and Prayers. But such Recusants as do discover these pernitious spirits will discern the darkness and danger of that Religion lapped up in implicite obedience; the Conscience and Treason growing up as close together as the Husk and Corn in one Ear: to eat their God upon bargains of bloud.

Those that are full of grief (as is said) for being R [...]cusants, Plus tristitiae quam poenitentiae, more that their Plot failed, than that it was intended.

Counsellours are Sentinels over the life of Kings and States.

The Laws which punish the Branches of all Treason are derived from Parliaments of two hundred years in force, and so are our Laws made, not by a few, much less by any one.

4. As for himself, with whom they condition to leave off his Plotting against Recusants; The Husband-man over-curious of Windes and Clouds, neither sows nor reaps in season. So that Servant that becomes awfull of his Sovereigns Enemies for power or envy, deserves not favour nor protection.

That the King hath not taken up wisdom of Government upon credit, but carrieth still the Iethro of order in his own bosom, disposing the mean causes to the Rulers over hundreds and fifties, reserving the greatest to the greatness of himself.

And freely professes, though he doth not participate with the follies of the Fly, upon the wheel of fortune: yet is he so far ambitious of his Masters favour, as to be not so much his creature by the undeserved Honours he holds from his Majesties grace and power, as in desire to be the shadow of his minde: towards whose royal Person, he glories more to be honest and humble, than to command in any other Calling.

And to say, that men resolved to die are Masters over others lives, such power hath the least Spider by permission; and if so, that the days of his life were in their hands, to take from him some moneths of joys; so, more years of sorrow: but he believes not, that the Mountains shake when the Moles do cast, nor thinks he, to purchace a span of time, as for the fear of any mortal power, Aut Deo, aut Patriae, aut Patri Patriae deesse. Magistrates [Page] who converse with variety of spirits,Anno 1607. must undergo Tempests. And their Glasses being done, that glory which makes worthy men live for ever, their Heirs shall inherit after them. And therefore, Suadeat loquent is vita, non oratio. Besides, Romes powers are discovered, her Towers taken, and it is suspected, that she will play so long with the temporal powers of Kings, as their work will break down her walls; so therefore it ill becomes their servants to slacken, for fear of malice; the Evening and the Night shall come upon them naturally, one after another; their faith shall ascend before them, and their good fame shall follow after. Et hic [...]aculum fixit.

This next Session of this Parliament, The union argued. the Union was revived, by motion of the Kings Solicitor Sir Francis Bacon, to have the Scots naturalized by Act of Parliament: after many subtil Arguments on both sides pro & con, and to allay the heat, the King convenes both Houses before him at White-hall, where, with an excellent method, he recounts all their former controversed Arguments, and concludes with Reasons undeniable, for unanimous consent to admit of the Union. But to avoid their tedious Disputes; I shall onely abbreviate the Kings Speech, in answer to all.

He distinguishes his desires;The Kings Speech in answer to their Arguments. the Union which he seeks is of Laws and Persons, such a Naturalizing, as may compound one Body of both Nations, Unus Rex, unus Grex, & una Lex. He unravels their intricate Arguments, and sweetens them with his intentions.

1. That all hostile Laws should cease, because the King of England cannot war with the King of Scotland.

That community of Commerce is necessary, He being no stranger, but descended of their ancient Kings; It were improper for him, to be their natural Sovereign, and the Nations strangers to one another, and being both under the same Alleageance, ought to have more freedom, and better respect, than Frenchmen and Spaniards.

2. They all agree, that they are no Aliens, then must they be allowed to be natural. That there was a difference, the Ante and Post-nati of either Kingdom, and therefore his Proclamations gave notice that the Post-nati were naturalized, by his accession; but he confessed, that Iudges may err in that opinion, who told him so; so may Lawyers on their side, but bids them beware of abusing either, lest they endeavour to disgrace King and Laws, who have power when Parliaments are not, to try them for Lands and Lives.

3. That there were some flatterers, and would prefer the Ante-nati upon a jearing pretence, to have their merit preferred in his service. Mel in ore, fel in corde. But they shall know, his Prerogative [Page] can prefer at his own pleasure, to any Dignity, though he is willing to restrain himself, for respects to the English. He urged it as a special mark of Prerogative, to endow Aliens with freedom; and where the Law is not therein clear, Rex est Iudex, he being Lex loquens, supplying the Law where it wants; thus he speaks as skilfull in the dues of Sovereignty, intends not the pressure upon their love, but with conveniency to both Kingdoms.

The inconveniences as from Scotland, are pretended to be;

1. An evil affection in them to the Union.

2. The Union to be incompatible.

3. The gain small or none.

Why then is there talk of Union?

They allege Reasons of the first, from the body of their Act, To remain a free Monarchy, and not alter Fundamental Laws: and yet it was urged heretofore, The Scots greedy of this Union, to attain to the substance and end. These are contradictions; but for their free Monarchy, he hopes they mean not that he should set Garisons over them, as the Spaniards do, over Sicily and Naples; He need not do so, who governs them by his Pen and his Council-commands; and his Chancellour there can govern their Tongues too, not to speak as ye do, what and as long as ye list, without contradiction?

1. He tells them the Laws of Scotland, those of Tenures, Wards, Liveries, Signiories, and Lands, are in effect drawn out of the Chancery of England, brought by Iames the first, (who lived here) and differ onely in terms.

2. The second, are Statute-laws, to which he wishes, they would be no strangers.

3. The Civil Law, brought out of France by Iames the fifth, to supply the defects of the Municipal Laws. In these respects the Laws alike, why not the People?

First, it is an Objection of yours, that the King in Scotland hath not a Negative Voice in Parliament; he tells them, that the Form of Parliaments there, inclines nothing to popularity: their manner is, by Proclamation, to bring in their Bills to the Master of the Rolls, by a prefixt day; then to the King, to be allowed by him, and then given to the Chancellour, to be propounded, and no other. If any man offers otherwise, the Chancellour corrects him, and being past the King confirms them, rasing out what he doth not approve, and if this be a Negative Voice, he hath one.

Secondly, that which seems so incompatible, is the Union of the French and Scots; He assures them, it was a League onely, between the Kings, not the People; the occasion was, that England and France at one time solicited a League offensive and defensive [Page] against each others Enemies. The reasons went for England, being our Neighbours, of one Continent strong and Powerfull Nation, and so more security the Amity with England, than France, far off beyond Seas, and hazarded to Accidents of relief.

Then, they who argued for France, alleaged that England ever sought to conquer Scotland, and therefore never can be Friends. The remoteness of France claimes no Interest, and therefore more Constant and Faithfull, and so it was concluded on their part. But then it was concluded meerly Personall from King to King, and to be renewed by their Ambassies; And so it was in his Mothers time, and without consent of Parliament, else it would seem a League of the People. And in his time when it came to be Ratifyed, least it should appear In odium Tertii, it was by Him left out, in respect of his Title to England.

3. Who is so ignorant as can not see the profit and commodity to England by this Union, is there not Gain by Wales, is not Scotland greater? Lands, Seas and Persons added to Greatness; certainly Two made One, makes them Greater and Stronger. He desires Union for the Empire of England, and for their security, to condescend to reasonable Restrictions, And he will never say, what he will not promise, nor promise what he will not swear, nor swear what he will not perform.Post-nati confirmed. And so dismisses them.

But, although the Parliament could not be drawn to it presently, yet not long after, it wrought upon the Judges of this Kingdom, that the chief Justice Coke confirmed the Post-Nati in Calvins Case and Title; And adjudged for him also, by that reverend States-man Chancelor Elsmere, and all the Iudges likewise in the Exchequer Chamber, whose opinions do much confound our Adversary, bewailing the Cause.

[That of such stuffe Judges are made, who can modell their Presidents to any shape.]H. G. B [...]. pag: 41.

And yet all that this Session could be drawn to do, was to repeal the Laws of Hostility between both Nations, and so confirmed in Scotland, from the fourth of Henry 5. of England, and from 1 Iames 1. of Scotland. Some excellent Acts were concluded this Session, which I refer to the statutes in print.

But because the Judges in that time are complained of,Judg Nichols his true justice. as too partiall for the Kings commands; Let me aeternize the memory of Judge Nichols of the common pleas. His Predecessor in his Circuite Assize for the County of Northampton had reprieved a Felon, indicted before him, and found guilty by the Jury and condemned, but reprieved by him upon some observation of the weakness of the Evidence. This Iudge dying, Nichols appointed for that Circuite, continues the Prisoners reprieve. And the complaint came to the King, who urgeth the Judg by letters [Page] for Execution, which yet he refused. His just excuse was, That if his Predecessor who heard the Evidence, thought good in Iustice to grant his reprieve, It became not his Conscience now, to condemn him; seeing he never heard the Evidence at all. And that it was part of his Oath, to do right, notwithstanding the Kings letters. 18. Edward 3. This man therefore the King owned to be a wise, learned, and just Judge, for though he might (perhaps) have given just Iudgment, it could not be true Iustice.

Licet aequum statuerit, hand aequum fuerit.

Heretofore Proclamations had been by Queen Elizabeth and King Iames against the excessive repair of persons of quality out of the Country to London, G [...]ntry flock to London. by neglecting their duties at home, in their respective service to the Common weal, the decay of Hospitable Neighborhood and relief of the poor. Besides, the more room made for them, crowded the Mechanick and Trades-men, into narrow habitations, and dear rents, pestering most houses with Inmates, Infections and sickness, the Country, Towns, and Burroughs unpeopled, trade decayed.

But these commands not obeyed, The wisdom of State was assured, that the cause taken away, the effects would follow.

The restraint of New-buildings might necessitate the Gentry, Proclamation in restraint of new buildings unless of Brick. to keep to the Country, for want of lodgings, at easie rates in London, And such as should be, were prescribed heretofore, a form of Brick upright, to save Timber, so much wanting, and to beautifie the streets, incroached upon with bay windows, and eaves hanging over, that even joyned with the opposite Neighbour, upon old or new foundations, a Custome of freedom in after times of loose liberty, which destroys the beauty of buildings.

And now necessity enforcing a farther Obedience, this proclamation hath these Limitations, No new buildings in London, or two miles about, but upon old foundations; And such as have been erected, within five years last past, contrary to former Proclamations (which were to be pulled down) shall nevertheless be disposed (by Officers appointed) for tenements to the poor, or for their benefit, and hereafter offending to be pull'd down; No House to be divided hereafter, into several Tenements, nor any Inmates received, to make another family.

These prohibitions, were referred to the Aldermen and Iustices of Peace, and this was in October 1607. When the plague ceased, and the fresh gang of the Countrey came huddling, to keep Christmass at London.

Our Caluminator that swells his Book with malitious observations [Page] and false quotations,Anno 1608. refers this to 7. Iac. 1609. and belyes the restriction, to be pulled down [though (says he) not taken notice of in seven years after] for this Proclamation commands the Aldermen and Iustices in their diligent view, perambulation, and inquiry, to certifie the Kings Council every Term, or their neglect to be censured,Hist. Gr. B [...]it. p. 49.punished and removed from the Peace, as unworthy.

[Whereby (says he) many not heeding the Proclamation, laid out their whole Estates upon little Hovels, and building fair houses upon new foundations must either purchase them anew, or pull them down, and both to their ruine.]

Name me one that was repurchased; Indeed, such as offended in this last were to be fined or pulled down. And truly the commands were so necessary, so wholesome, so beautifull, and so exemplarily publick, that very few offended, and such as did, deserved due punishment, yet this is scored upon the King, as a Crime in State, which he foresaw would come to pass, as now in these days we finde the effects to be pitied, the very ruine of this City and Suburbs.

The Lord Treasurer Dorset died suddenly at the Council-table, L. Treasurer Dorset dies. his Disease an Apoplexy, (which gave way to Cecil Earl of Salisbury to succeed him Treasurer) this Dorset was Thomas Sackvile, Son and Heir of Sir Richard Sackvile of Buckhurst, who came from the Temple a Barrester, and was created Baron Buckhurst by Queen Elizabeth, and by King Iames Earl of Dorset, 1605. and Knight of the Garter.

About this time a further discovery was made in Scotland, George Sp [...]ot a Conspirator with Gowry, his story and execution. concerning the truth of Gowry's Treason by Attainder of another of the Conspiratours. The Treason was attempted the fourth of August, 1600. (as before remembered) and though there followed sundry Suspitions, and Examinations of several persons supposed Abettors and Contrivers then, yet it lay undiscovered, tanquam e post liminio, untill this time, eight years after, by the circumspection principally of the Earl of Dunbar, (a man of as great wisdom as those times and that Nation could boast of) upon the person of one George Sprot, Notary publick at Aymouth in Scotland, from some words of his, sparingly and unawares expressed, and some Papers found in his house, whereof being examined, with little ado, he confessed, and was condemned and executed at Edenburgh, 12. August, 1608.

A Relation I conceive, not common, but in my hands to be produced, and written by that learned Gentleman Sir William Hart, then Lord chief Iustice in Scotland, and principal in all the Acts of Judicature herein.

And first Sprot confesseth,His Co [...]fessions. that Robert Logane late of R [...]stalrig, was privy and foreknowing of Iohn, late Earl of Gowry's treasonable [Page] conspiracy. That divers Letters were interchanged betwixt them therein, Iuly 1600. which Letter Iames Bour, called Laird Bour, Servitour to Restalrig, (imployed by them and privy to all) had in keeping, and shewed them to Sprot in Fast-castle. That Sprot was present when Bour after five days absence, returned with answers by Letters from Gowry, and staid all night with Restalrig at Gunnesgreen, and rode the next morn to Lothian, where he staid six days, then to Fast-castle, where he abode a short space.

That Sprot saw and heard Restalrig reade those Letters to Bour, and all their conference there annent, who said, Though he should lose all in the world, yet he would pass through with Gowry; for that would as well content him as the Kingdom.

That Sprot himself entered into conference with Bo [...]r therein, who feared, that it would be dear to him, and prayed Sprot for Gods sake not to intermeddle; for he feared, within few days the Laird would be landless and liveless.

That he had these Letters of Restalrig and Gowry, which Bour had in keeping and were copied out by Sprot, and that the original Letters were in his Chest, when he was taken into Custody.

These and other depositions written by Iames Primrose Clerk of the Kings Council, and subscribed, George Sprot.

Present.

Earl Dunbar, Earl Lothian, Bishop of Ro [...]s, Lord Schone, Lord Hallyrood-house, Lord Blantire, Sir William Hart, Lord chief Justice, Iohn Hall, Patrick Gallow ay, Peter Hewet, Minister of Edenburgh, and subscribed with all their hands.

Several other Examinations are attested under his hand with this Protestation, That being resolved to die, and hopes to be participant of Heaven upon Salvation or Damnation of his Soul, that all that he had deposed were true in every point and circumstance, and no untruth in them.

August 12. Sprot was presented in Iudgment upon Pannel in the Talboth of Edenburgh, His Trial. before Sir William Hart Lord chief Justice, assisted with these persons.

Alexander Earl of Dunferling Lord Chancellour, George Earl of Dunbar Lord Treasurer, Iohn Arch-Bishop of Glasco, David Bishop of Rosse, Bishop of Galloway, Bishop of Brechin, Earl of Crawford, Earl of Lotharine, Lord Abernethe, Lord Balmerinoth, Lord Blantire, Lord Burly, Sir Richard Cowburn, Iohn Preston Colonel General, Sir Iohn Skew Register.

He was pursued by Sir Thomas Hamilton Knight, Advocate to the King, for Enteries of the Crimes contained in his Indictments, as followeth.

George Sprot Notary in Aymouth, You are indicted and accused; for as much as Iohn sometime Earl of Gowry, having most [Page] treasonably conspired in the moneth of Iuly, 1600. to murder our gracious Sovereign, the Kings most Excellent Majesty; and having imparted that devilish purpose to Robert Logame of Restalrig, who allowed of the same, and most willingly to be partaker thereof: the same coming to your knowledg at the times and in the manner particularly after mentioned, you most maliciously and treasonably concealed the same, and was art and part thereof.

And first, in the moneth of Iuly 1600. after you had perceived and known, that divers Letters and Messages had past betwixt the said Iohn Earl Gowry and the said Robert Logame of Restalrig, you being in the house of Fast-castle, you saw and read a Letter written by the said Restalrig with his own hand to the said Earl Gowry.

MY Lord, &c.

At the receit of your Letter, I am so confuted,Restalrig's Letter to Gowry, that I can neither utter my joy, nor finde my self able to requite your Lordship with due thanks: and be your Lordship assured, that in that matter, I shall be as forward for your Honour, as if it were my own cause: and I think there is no Christian, that would not revenge that Machiavilian Massacring of our dear Friends, though with hazard of Life, and Lands, and all. My heart can binde me, to take part in that matter, as your Lordship shall finde proof. But one thing your Lordship must be circumspect and earnest with your Brother, that he be not rash in any Speeches, touching the purpose of Padua.

And a certain space after the execution of the said Treason,and after the Treason. the said Logame having desired the Laird of Bour to deliver to him the said Letter, or else to burn it, and Bour having delivered to you all Tickets and Letters, which he then had either concerning Restalrig or others to sue them, (because he could not reade) you abstracted them, and retain'd the said Writings in your own hands, and divers times read them, containing further, viz.

MY Lord,

Other Letters to Gowry.

you may easily understand, that such a purpose cannot be done (as your Lordship intendeth) rashly, but with deliberation.

And for my self, it were meet to have the men your Lordship spake of ready in a Boat or Bark, and address them, as if they were taking pleasure on the Sea, in such fair Summer time.

And for your Lordship, either to come to my house Fast-castle by Sea, or to send your Brother. I shall have the House very quiet, and well provided, after your Lordships advertisement, and none shall have access to haunt the place, during your abode here. And if your [Page] Lordship doubt of safe landing, I shall provide all such necessaries as may serve for your arrival, within a flight-shoot of the House; and perswade your self, to be as quiet here, while we have settled our Plot, as if in your Chamber: for I trust, and am assured, we shall have word from them your Lordship knows of, within few days, for I have a care to see what Ships come by.

Your Lordship knows, I have kept up Lord Bothwell in my house quietly, in his greatest extremities, in spite of King and Council. I hope if all things come to pass, (as I trust they shall) to have both your Lordships at a good Dinner ere I die. Haec jocose.

To animate your Lordship, I doubt not, all will be well, for I am resolved thereof, doubt nothing on my part; Peril of Life, Lands, Honour and Goods, yea the hazard of Hell, shall not affray me from that, yea though the Scaffold were already set up.

The sooner the matter were done the better, for the Kings Buckhunting will be shortly; and I hope it will prepare some dainty chear for us, to live the next year. I remember well, that merry sport, which your Lordships Brother told me, of a Noble-man at Padua, for I think that, a Parasceue to this purpose.

My Lord, think nothing that I comm [...]t that secret hereof to this Bearer; for I dare not onely venture my Life, Lands, Honour, and all upon his credit; but I durst hazard my Soul, in his keeping. I am so perswaded of his fidelity; And I trow, (ask him if it be not true) he will go to Hell gates for me, and he is not beg [...]iled on my part to him; and therefore I am perswaded, this will give him trust with your Lordship in this matter, as to my self. But I pray you, hasten him home with all speed, and charge him not to take a wink of sleep till he see me again, after he returns from you. And as your Lordship desireth in your Letters to me, so say I to you, either rive or burn this Letter, or return it back again to me, with the Bearer, for so is the fashion, I grant.

Restalrig.

And albeit by the Letter (all his own hand) you knew the truth of the said treasonable Conspiracy, and Logain's foreknowledg and guilt thereof, like as you were assured of divers Letters received by him from Gowry, and by his Answers to the same purpose, and by sundry Conferences, betwixt Logain and Bour in your presence and hearing, concerning the said Treason, as well in Iuly preceding the Attempt thereof, as at divers other times shortly after; as likewise by Bour revealing the same to you, who was imployed ordinary Messenger by Logain to Gowry, whereby your knowledg and concealment and guilt was undeniable:

Yet for further manifestation thereof,as also his [...] about Iuly 1602. Logain shewed unto you, that Bour had told him, that he had been [Page] somewhat rash to let you see a Letter, which came from Gowry to Logain, who then urged you to tell him what you understood by the same. You answered, that you took the meaning thereof to be, that he had been upon the counsel and purpose of Gowry's Conspiracy; and that he answered you, the worst he had done, was his own; but if you would swear to him, never to reveal any thing of that matter to any person, it should be the best sight that ever you saw; and in token of further recompence, he gave you twelve pounds of Silver.

Nevertheless albeit you knew perfectly the whole practice and progress of all the said Treason, from the beginning to the end; as also by your conference with Bour and Logain, who lived untill the year 1606. or thereabout, and so by the space of six years you concealed the same, and so was in art and part thereof, and ought to suffer under pain of high Treason. To the Token that you have not onely by your depositions subscribed by you, and solemnly made in presence of divers Lords of his Majesties Privy Council, and the Ministers of the Borough of Edenburgh, of the Dates of the fifth, fifteenth and sixteenth days of Iuly last past, and tenth and thirteenth of August instant, confessed, every Point, Head, and Article of the Indictment abovesaid, but also by divers other Depositions subscribed by you, you have ratified the same, and to seal the same with your bloud.

Which Indictment Confesseth the Indictment. being read openly, before Sprot, was put to the knowledg of the Inquest; he confessed the same in every point to be true; and therefore the Indictment was put to the Inquest of the honest, famous, and discreet persons,Jurors names. viz. William Trumball of Ardre, William Fisher Merchant and Burgess of Edenburgh, Robert Short there; Edmund Iohnston Merchant and Burgess there, Harb. Maxwell of Cavons, Ia. Terment of Lint-house, William Trumbill Burgess of Edenburgh, George Brown in Gorgy Mill, Io. Huchinson and Io. Lewes Merchants and Burgesses of Edenburgh, Ia. Somervil and William Swinton there, Io. Cruneson of Darlton, Thomas Smith and Io. Cowtis Burgesses of Edenburgh.

Which persons of Inquest, sworn and admitted, and reading over the same Indictment again, in his and their presence, the said George Sprot confessed the same to be true.

Whereupon the said Sir Thomas Hamilton Advocate asked Act and Instrument. And therefore the Inquest removed to the Inquest-house, and elected Herbert Maxwell to be their Chancellour or fore-man.Verdict. And after mature deliberation they all re-entered again in Court where the said Fore-man declared the said George Sprot to be guilty,Sentenced as a Traitor. filed, and convict of Art and part of the said Treason, for which the said Iustice by the mouth of the [Page] De [...]ster of Court, by Sentence and Doom ordained the said George Sprot to be taken to the Market-Cross of Edenburgh, and there to be hanged upon a Gibbet, till he be dead, and thereafter his head to be stricken off, and his body to be quartered and demeaned as a Traitor, and his head to be set up upon a prick of Iron upon the highest part of the Tolboth of Edenburgh, where the Traitor Gowry and other Conspirators heads stand, and his Lands and Goods forfeited, and escheated to our Sovereign Lord the Kings use.

Extractum de Libro Actorum Adjornalis S. D. N. Regis per me D. Iohannem Coburn de Ormeston Mil. Clericum Iusticiarii ejusdem generalem, sub meis signo & subscriptione Manualibus.

And so was Sprot conveyed to a private house, remaining at his meditations, and afterwards conferred with the Ministers, confessing all aforesaid, with extreme humiliation and prayer.

Afterwards ganging up the Ladder, Executed. with his hands loose and untied, he was again put in minde of his Confessions, and for the greater assurance thereof performed an act marvellous, promising by Gods assistance to give them an evident token before the yielding up of his spirit,A marvellous sign of guilt. which was, when he had hung a very good while, he lift up both his hands a good height, and clapped them together three several times, to the wonder of thousands Spectators.

And for the more confirmation,Abbot Bishop of Canterbury being present. George Abbot Doctor in Divinity and Dean of Winchester, after Arch-bishop of Canterbury, was present, both at his Examination and Execution, and hath publisht in print the same Writings, observation and particulars, verb [...]tim, as aforesaid, which I can produce also.

I was obliged in honor of the truth to be thus particular, to take off the horrid crime with which our Adversaries load the memory of King Iames; and if as yet not satisfactory, I may conclude with Saint Iohn's Apocalyps, Qui sordescit, sordescat adhuc.

And yet I am enforced to complain against a late Historian, who says,History of the Church of Scotland, p. 509.

Sprot's Depositions seem a very fiction, a meer invention of his own brain.

And why? Because (says he) Sprot did not shew the Letter.

How came it then to be recorded, as aforesaid? And concludes against himself.

However (says he) Sprot remained constant in his Confession, and at his dying when he was to be cast off the Ladder, promised to give the beholders a sign for confirming them in the truth of what he had spoken, which also he performed by clapping his hands three several times after he was cast off by the Executioner.

[Page] What can be more to convince for the truth, that he was guilty?

In this fourth Session, the King intends the Creation of his sonne Henry Prince of Wales, and for that and other occasions craves supply of his wants,The Kings disbursments already. proceeding from his great disbursments, discounting with them his receipts of three hundred and fifty thousand pounds subsidies due to his Predecessor,60000 l. with his redeeming the Crown lands morgaged in the year 1598.19000. by her, to the City of London for sixty thousand pounds.17428. His expence also of nineteen thousand pounds to the Souldiers in Ireland, 11000. the late Queens funeral charges seventeen thousand four hundred twenty and eight pounds.107428. His and his Queens Journy hither 11000l. Besides the King of Denmarks reception, entertainments of Ambassadors hither, and sending others abroad. These were reasons just and Noble to work into the hearts of obedient, and obliged people; but wrought not with them.

The Secretary of State for Scotland, The Scotish Secretary Balmerino's treacherous Letter to the Pope. Sir Iames Lethington, Lord B [...]merino, being now sent hither with letters from that Council, was sodainly surprized with some Questions from the King.The occasion. Cardinal Bellarmine had not long before published an answer to the Kings Apologie, Charging him with inconstancie, and objecting a Letter that he had sent to Pope Clement the eighth from Scotland, wherein he recommended to his Holyness, the Bishop of Vaison for obtaining the dignity of a Cardinal, that so he might be better able to advance his affairs in the Court of Rome.

The King meeting with this passage in Bellarmines-Book, presently apprehended his Secretary somewhat Popish, to shuffle such a Letter to the Pope, and the King signing it amongst others which he usually sent to the Dukes of Savoy and Florence. The Secretary now come and soda [...]nly demanded if ever he had written any Letter to the Pope, he answered, he had by his Majesties Command. At which the King bending the brow of Anger, the Secretary fell down and craved Mercy, Professing that his meaning was by that Letter, to purchase the Popes favour in advance of his Majesties title to England.

Then the King remembred the challenge made by Queen Elizabeth 1599. unto the Secretary of such a letter, which said he you then denied, and procured Sir Edward Drummond (who was accused for carrying that Letter) to come into Scotland, and abjure the same. The Secretary in great perplexity, made his excuse with his good meaning, and craved pardon of God and the King, for his and Drummonds perjury. He was instantly Committed to his Chamber, and so to the Council-Table, who urged his Crime as the ground of all conspiracies since the Kings coming into England, that of the powder Treason and puritans Combinations. The Secretary in great humility answered. [Page] Curae leves loquuntur, Ingentes Stupent. My Lords I can not find words to express my sorrow, for my offence against my gracious Sovereign, when I call to mind his Majesties favours, raising me from the dust to a fortune, by my Honorable preferment, and thus to fail of my duty, and fall into such a degree of falsity. Ah! peccavi in Coelum & terram. My offence is insupportable and impardonable. Only his Majesties rare Piety, singular wisdom and sincerity, is sufficient to throw all possible guilt on me without any doubt of the Kings, Innocency; if nothing but my life, and all I am can expiate so great a Crime, fiat voluntas Dei & Regis. I humbly submit and take my death patiently.

The Chancellor Egerton declared,1609. That it was the Kings pleasure to remit his Tryal to the Judges in Scotland, He is sent p [...]isoner to be tryed in Scotland. and to be conveyed thither a Prisoner, The Sheriffs attending him from Shire to Shire. In the mean time he did Pronounce him deprived of all places, Honors, Dignities, and every thing else that he possessed in England.

And thus conveyed to Scotland, His indictment. he is committed to Faulk-land Castle, and so to his indictment. That in 1598. by instigation of his Cousen Sir Edward Drummond a Papist, he had stollen and surreptitiously purchased the Kings hand to a Letter written, and sent by Sir Edward, and directed to Pope [...]lement the eighth, in favour of the Bishop of Vaison, for his preferment to be a Cardinal, shuffling in this letter amongst others, that were to be signed, filling it up with Stiles and Titles to the Pope, and sealed it with his Majesties signet (which was intrusted to him as Secretary) to the indangering his Majesties Honor, Life, Crown; and Estate, and the subversion of true Religion, and the whole Professors thereof.

He acknowledged that his offence admits no defence: for however he conceived that the keeping of Intelligence with the Pope,His confession, might advance his Majesties Succession to the crown of England, yet knowing his Majesties resolution never to use any crooked course, but to rest upon Gods providence and his own right; therefore he intreated all that were present, to bear witness of his confession and true remorse for his offence [...] Only he craved liberty to protest, That he never intended an alteration of Religion, nor Toleration of the contrary, but conceiving some good might have been wrought thereby at that time, and to promote his Majesties right, Concluding that not to make more trouble to the Judges, he had confessed the truth, and wished as God should be mercifull to his own soul, that the King was most falsely and wrongfully charged with the said Letter, &c.

The Jury were Noblemen his Pares five Earls, four Lords,And sentence. and six Knights, who gave Verdict of his guilt of Treason and of art and part of the whole treasonable Crimes contained in [Page] the Indictment.Anno 1609. And ready for Execution he was reprieved by intercession of the Queen in England, and returned to Faulkland Prison, and afterwards licensed to his own house in Balmerinoch, where his sickness increased of grief, and there he dyed.

He was accounted a Person of abilities sufficient for his places in Session and Council,Is reprieved and dies. whose conscience stretched out to his gain▪ and possessing much of the Churches lands, was a constant Enemy under hand, to the Kings desire of restoring Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction to the Bishops. And such end befalls false servants.

However this Man died repentant of his fact,King James a mercifull Prince, and restores his son in blood. and evermore acknowledging the Kings grace and mercy, which not only was thus far expressed in favour to him, that once had been trusted by the King, and who in truth seldom lessened his royal disposition to any of his Creatures, without great cause to the contrary, so not long after his son was restored in blood and honor with the like grace as formerly to his father. And he also afterwards a like ungrateful wretch,And he a traytor also to King Charles is also pardoned. to his Soveraign King Charles, and for an infamous Libel which he framed and dispersed against his Majesty, was by his Peers in Scotland, condemned to dye as a Traytor, To whom this mercifull Prince the inheritor of his fathers glories afforded his Sovereign balm of mercies; this Balmerino also not only reprieved, but pardoned under the great seal of that Kingdom, which he received upon his knees at that Council-Table, with the highest magnifying the Kings mercy, the humblest acknowledging his and his fathers infinite obligations, by which they both stood for ever ingaged to the service of the Crown. In so much (the Records say) the whole Council recommended him,And proves an ungratefull wretch to his blessed Master. as a Person so highly resenting this grace of the King, that by his own protestation inducing their Confidence, He was become a Mark of the Kings mercy, and as new-molded and made fit for the future; No doubt an humble Subject for his Sovereigns choice Service. And yet this Man [...]ot long after, proved the Contriver and the most malicious Prosecutor of such conspiracies, as may be said to be the forerunners of that Kings miserable and final destruction. I cannot learn whether he be living in this sin, and so as yet spared for Gods mercy, or unrepentant dead to his Judgments sure and suddain.

But to our business in Scotland. In the next Assembly at Glascow, The Bishops in Scotland inlarged their power. the Bishops took upon them to inlarge their own authority in the Administration of all Church affairs, And yet not willing to make any change (though by the Kings command) without brotherly approbation of the Ministers, They assemble together and consent unto Articles of Government and [Page] power of the Bishops. In which Assembly the Popish Lords supplicate for absolution and to subscribe to the confession of faith. Huntley did so, and returned to his own County, Arroll went about it too, but suddainly fell into such confused terror, as offering violence upon his own person,, he was spared by his intercession of tears and prayers, not to be forced against the reluctancy of his Conscience, who in truth of all that sect, shewed evermore much of tender minde, to endeavour satisfaction to himself, and so received more civility from the Church ever after. Angus was most averse and had leave to banish himself into France, where he died at Paris some years after.

There had been a good progress in Scotland for quieting the Clergie, and renewing the repute of the prelacie. And therefore the Arch-Bishop of Glascow, with the Bishops of Brigen and Galloway, having audience of the King in relation to the affairs of the Church of Scotland.

Told them with what care and charge he had repossessed the Bishopricks out of the hands of the Laity and other sacreligious pretenders,Scots Bishops consecrated in England, and settled them upon reverend Men as he hoped worthy of their places. But since he could not consecrate them Bishops, nor they assume that honor to themselves, and that in Scotland there was not a sufficient Number to enter charge by Consecration, he had therefore called them into England; that being here consecrated themselves, they might give ordination at home, and so the Presbyters mouths stopped.

For they had maliciously and falsely reported, that the King took upon him to create Bishops and bestow spiritual Offices, which he never did, always acknowledging that Authority to belong to Christ alone, and whom he had authorized with his own power.

One thing admitted dispute The Arch-Bishops of Canterbury, Who ordain others at home and York, always pretended Jurisdiction over Scotland, and so now this consecration might be taken as a voluntary subjection to this Church. But therefore London, Ely, and Bath, performed it to them, and they ordained others at home, And carried back Directions for a High Commission Court also, for ordering of causes Ecclesiastical, which were approved by their Clergie, and put into obedience.

From these good Men,Council Table ordered. The King fished out the behaviours of his Council there; and therefore to settle them in terms of honor and state at their Table, they were to convene twice a week, and None to stay in the Room, but Counsellors, nor any solicitations there. But being come instantly to take their places sitting, not standing, unless they pleaded for themselves, and then to rise and stand at the end of the Table, (for they were wont to quarrel and to cuff, cross the board.) No Counsellor to [Page] be absent four days without leave of the rest. Each single Counsellor to be Justice of Peace in all the Kingdom, & to preserve respect to their places they should not trample the streets on foot, but in Coach or Horse-back with footcloths. This brought some esteem to that Board, who before were bearded by every Kirk-Iohn, or Lay-Elder.

And after this posture of Governing,The Earl of Orkney committed. Patrick Stewart Earl of the Isles Orkney and Yetland was sent for, to humble himself to imprisonment: A Custom also which was setled in the Council, to command any Malignant, to be in Ward by such a day, or else to be horned Rebell

This great man▪ (at home) is there humbled before the Bishop of Orkney, and is by him examined, (so soon is the Kings ordinance obeyed.)

His Crimes grew up from his poverty (made so by his own riot and prodigality) which now he seeks to repair by shifts of Tyranny over the people, under his Command; and being by the Bishop reported so to the Council, he was committed to Prison, untill the pleasure of the King deals further, in Mercy or Justice. But to exercise that Nation by degrees of punishment, he was afterwards released and returned home to better behaviour, wherein he became for the future so faultie, that two years after he was executed.

We have hinted heretofore the Kings business at home,High commission-Court. which in truth was his wisdom to wade through. To suppress the trayterous designes of the Papists, and to settle the fiery dispositions of the Schismaticks; for the first, their own violent progression in their late Pouder-plot, drew upon them publick lawes of chastisement. But these Other, (alas) their Motion now not so violent, yet perpetual, & the more warily to be dealt with. And because no disputes, Arguments nor Policies could reduce them, therefore the spiritual High-Commission-Court took some course, moderately to regulate their Insolencies.

Busie this Parliament had been in disputes, of the Common and Civil Laws; The first strained to such a necessitary power, as in short event, would mightily qualifie the other to nothing. Besides, this Session sate long and supplyed not the Kings wants, wasting time (as ever sithence) in seeking Grievances. The Session seek for grievances. To palliate the Lower-House, some Messages had informed his necessary expences, and to both Houses, the new Treasurer (late Earl of Salisbury) opened the emptiness of his Office. And at last the King speaks for himself, at a Meeting at White-Hall. He spake well, and now prolix, which yet I must present thus long. Perfect Spe [...]ches open the times and truth to posterity, against our Carping Adversary; I need not quote his pages, take his [Page] whole History passionately and partially distempered, throughout.

The King forgets not their late loving duties, and therefore recompenseth them with a rare present,Hist, G [...]. B [...]. ubique. a Chrystall Mirror, the heart of their King, which though it be in Manu Domini, so will he set it, in oculis populi.

The principal things (says he) agitated in this Parliament were three. First,The Kings Speech to both Houses: Your support to me. Secondly, My relief to you. But the third, How I would govern, as to former constitutions, or by absolute power.

He begins with the last. That Monarchy is the supremest thing upon Earth,Of his Government. illustrated by three similitudes. First out of Gods word, You are Gods. Secondly out of Philosophie, Parens patriae. Thirdly out of Policie, the Head of this Microcosm Man.

For the first, The attributes of God; Creation, Destruction, Reparation, to judge and not be judged, and to have power of Soul and Body; so of Kings; and can make of Subjects as at Chesse, a pawn to take a Bishop or Knight, to cry up and down their Subjects, as their coin; And as their Soul and Body to God, so to the King, affections of the Soul, and service of the Body. And he justified the Bishops late Sermon of the Kings power in Abstracto, to be true Divinity. But then as to the general, so to exhort them, how to help such a good King as now they have, putting a difference between Power in Divinity, and the setled state of this Kingdom.

For the second, fathers of families had Patriam potestatem, vitae et Necis, for Kings had their original as heirs from them, planted in Colonies through the world. And all laws allow Parents, to dispose of children at pleasure.

For the last, The head judgeth of the Members, to cure or cut off. But yet these powers are ordained ad correctionem, non ad destructionem: and as God destroys not, but preserves nature, so a father to his Children, a Head to his Members.

But then he distinguished the state of Kings in Original, and of setled Monarchs. For as God in the old Testament spake by Oracles, and wrought by Miracles, yet after the Church was setled in Christ, and a cessation of both, he governed by his revealed Will, his Words. So Kings beginning by Conquest or Election, their Wills, Lawes, and being setled in a civill policie, set down their mindes by Statutes, and at the desire of the people, the King grants them; and so he becomes Lex Loquens, binding himself by a double Oath; Tacitly as King, and expresly by his Oath at Coronation, a Paction with his People, as God with Noah. If otherwise he governs them, a King turns Tyrant; Either govern by Law, says the widow to Alexander,[Page]A [...]t ne Rex sis. There needs no Rebellion against evil Kings, for God never leaves them unpunished.

And concludes, That to dispute what God may do, is Blasphemy; but Quid vult Deus? is Divinity; so of Kings; Sedition in Subjects, to dispute a Posse ad Esse. He professes, Reason for his Actions, and Rule for his Laws.

He dislikes not the Common Law, Common Law and Civil. favourable to Kings, and extendeth his Prerogative; To despise it, were to neglect his own Crown.

The Civil, serves more for general learning, and most necessary for commerce with Nations, as Lex Gentium; but though not fit for the general Government of this People, yet not to be therefore extinct, not to prefer Civil before Common Law, but bounded to such Courts and Causes as have been in ancient use, as the Courts Ecclesiastical, Admiralty, of Request, reserving Common Law as fundamental, Prerogative or Privilege, King and Subject, or themselves, Meum & Tunm.

No Kingdom in the World governed meerly by Civil Law; their Municipal Laws always agree with their Customes.

God governed his People by Laws, Ceremonial, Moral, Iudicial; Iudicial onely for a certain people and a certain time. Example, If Hanging for Theft were turned to treble restitution, as in Moses Law, What will become of the middle Shires, the Irishry, and Highlanders? If fundamentally be altered, Who can discern Meum & tuum? It would be like the Gregorian Calendar, which destroys the old, and yet this new troubles all the Debts and Accounts of Tra [...]ick and Merchandise. Nay, the King avows, by it he knows not his own age, for now his birth-day removes ten days nearer him than it was before that change.

And yet he desires three things to be cleared in the Common Law, and by advice of Parliament.

1. That it were in English: for since it is our Plea against Papists for their language in Gods service, an unknown Tongue, (Moses Law being written in the Fringes of the Priests garments) so our Laws; that excuse of ignorance may not be, for conforming themselves thereunto.

2. Our Common Law is unsettled in the text, grounded upon Custom, or Reports and Cases, called Responsa Prudentum: Indeed so are all other Laws (save in Denmark and Norway, where the Letter resolves) the circumstances making variations, that therefore so many Doctors Comments, so many different Opinions; the Iudges themselves disclame and recede from the judgment of their Predecessors, the Parliament might set down Acts of Confirmation for all times to come, and so not to depend on uncertain opinions of Iudges and Reports; nay, there are contrary Reports and Presidents.

[Page] The same corruption in the Acts of Parliaments (which he called Cuffing Statutes) and penned in divers senses, and some penal, which no man can avoid, disagreeing from this our time, yet no tyrannous or avaritious King would endure.

3. For Prohibitions, Prohibiti [...] he hath been thought to be an Enemy to them, he wishes that each Court might have limits of Iurisdiction certain; and then, if encroached upon, Prohibitions to issue out of the Kings Bench or Chancery; and so to keep every River within his proper banks. The abuse and over-flowing of Prohibitions brings in most Moulture to their own Mill.

The King had taken it in task, in two or three several Meetings before, and after a large Hearing, he told them, Ab initio non fuit sic. And therefore ordered each Court to contain themselves within their own bounds. That the Common Law be sparing of their Prohibitions also, and to grant them,

1. In a lawfull form, but in open Court onely.

2. Upon just and mature information of the Cause; for as good have no Sentence, as not Execution.

He instanced in a poor Ministers Case, thereby enforced to forbear his flock, becomes non-resident, obtains a Sentence, and expecting the fruit is defrauded by Prohibition, like CHRIST'S Parable. That night shall his soul be taken from him. Tortured like Tantalus, gaping for the Apple, it is pulled away by Prohibition. And concludes, with the difference of true use, and abounding in abuse, to be considered.

The second general Ground,2. Grievanc [...] how to present them. Grievances are presented in Parliament as the Representative of the People, the highest Court of Iustice, but concerns the lower House properly.

The manner, opportune in Parliament or inopportune as private men; but then, not to be greedily sought for, nor taken up in the streets; thereby to shew, that ye would have a shew made of more abuses, than in truth of cause; not to multiply them, as a noise amongst the People. So that, at the very beginning of this Session, each one multiplied and mustered them, as his Spleen pleased.

He therefore thanks them, for that these finding many such Papers, stuft up in a Sack, rather like Pasquils than Complaints, proceeding more from murmuring spirits, they made a publick Bone-fire of them all; a good effect of an ill cause. So to take care to prevent the like; lest the lower House become the place for Pasquils, and may have such Papers cast in, as may contain Treason or Scandal to the King and his Posterity, the ancient order was to be openly and avowably presented to the Speaker first.

He confesses, that they are just and faithfull to their Trust, to be informed of Grievances; and acknowledges, that his publick [Page] Directions and Commissions may be abused in the Execution, and he not informed but by them.

He advises them, not to meddle with the main points of Governments, Not to meddle with his Office. his craft, Tractent fabrilia fabri. He being an old King, six and thirty years in Scotland, and seven years in England; and therefore there needs not too many Phormio's to teach Hannibal; he will not be taught his Office; nor are they to meddle with his ancient Rights received from his Predecessors, More majorum. All Novelties are dangerous.

Lastly, not to call that Grievance which is establisht by a settled Law, and to which to press the King is misduty in the Subject, knowing before hand he will refuse them. If not convenient, amend it by Parliament, but term it not a Grievance. To be grieved at the Law, is to be grieved with the King the Patron of the Law; and he allows them to distinguish between a fault of the Person and the Things. For Example.

The High Commission is complained of;High Commission. Try the abuse and spare not, but do not destroy the Court of Commission, that were to abridg the Kings power. And plainly he resolves; seeing that Court is of so high a nature, to restrain it onely to the two Arch-Bishops; heretofore common to more. Nor shall any man be to him more Puritan to complain, as well out as in Parliament, of defects therein, onely, grieve ye not at the Commission it self. He desires them, that their Grievances savour not of particular mens thoughts, but rather rising out of the peoples mindes; not of the humour of the Propounder; that mans passion will easily discover him. Petitions also, though they be general, are so to be distinguished.

The third general Cause concerns himself, which he always leaves hindmost,3. The cause of calling the Parliament. (and had left it to his Treasurer) being distrustfull, naturally less eloquent in his own concernment. That this Officer had already accounted to them of the Kings Havings and his Expendings, which he hopes they acknowledg as a favour, to be particularly acquainted with his State. His Predecessor seldom afforded the like.

Duty he clames of them; one of the branches being to supply their Sovereign; but the quantity and time proceeds from their loves; and therefore disputes not a Kings power, but what, with their good wills; and wishes them, as he, to avoid extremes; for if they fail in the one (Supply) or in the manner of Levy, both he and the Countrey shall have cause to blame them.

And as the secular Nobility are hereditary Lords of Parliament, The quality how to give. and the Bishops live neuter, Barons of the same, and give but their own; but the lower House being the Representative of the Commons, give for themselves and others, and so may be the [Page] more liberal: yet if too much, they abuse the King and hurt the People; which he will never accept; their true love being the greatest security to any wise or just Prince.

So they need not the fear of that Item by one of their Members, In giving too much to endanger your Throats-cutting when ye came home. He loves freedom of Gift with discretion. He never laboured for their Voices to that end, detesting to hunt for Emendicata suffragia. But then, as not to give him a Purse with a Knife; So not to excuse and cloak their particular humours, by alleging the Poverty of the People: To such persons, though he will not be less just, yet not in reason to gratifie them when it may come in their way, to want him.

He heard that it was propounded whether the Kings wants ought to be relieved or not? Certainly, though it may seem his particular, yet being Parens Patriae, and tells them his wants; nay, Patria ipsa, by him speaks to them; for if the King wants, the State wants; and therefore the strengthning of the King, is the standing of the State; and wo be to him that divides the weal of the one from the other.

And as a rich King is but miserable over a poor People; The quantity. so a potent People cannot subsist, if their Kings means maintains not his State, being the sinews of War and Peace: and it grieves him to crave of others, that was born to be begged of. And if he desires more of them than ever any King did, so hath he juster reason than any King had.

And in particular, the accession of more Crowns in him, so the more honour to Subjects, and the more charge.

His fruitfull Issue, which God gives him for their use, of great expence; and yet Queen Elizabeth notwithstanding her Orbity, had more given her than ever any of her Predecessors.

The Creation of his Son draws near, for whom he says no more, the sight of himself speaks to you.

That he hath spent much,His expences. but yet not to be spared; the late Queens Funeral; the solemnity of his and his Wives entry in this Kingdom; the Triumph through the City, and his Coronation; Visus of Princes in person; and the Ambassadors of most Potentates of Christendom; could he in honor of the Kingdom do less than bid them welcome?

But if they will imbound his Supplies, to the case onely of War, so upon the point, notwithstanding his intern Peace, he is to send supply of Forces to Cleves, both in respect of State, and cause of Religion: his Pensions, the late Queens old Commanders of Berwick; besides his pretty Seminary of Souldiers in the Forts of this Kingdom, and also the cautionary Towns of Flushing and Brill, beyond Seas; his uncertain charges in Ireland; the last years Rebellion brake forth there of extraordinary charge, and a [Page] constant Army, which he dares not diminish, till this Plantation take effect, the great Mote no doubt in the Rebells eys.

His expence in Liberality (objected) hath been given amongst them,Reasons for his liberality. and so what comes from them, returns amongst them. 'Tis true, had I not been liberal to my old Servants Scotish-men, you might suspect me ingrate to you my new subjects, and yet assures them, his bounty hath been twice more to English. So then to his shame be it, of your house that said, Your Silver and Gold abounded at Edenburgh; but I wish him no worse than to be bound to live only upon the interest thereof, and but few of you that I look in the face, but have been Suitors for Honour and Profit. That vastness is past, Christmass and open-tide is ended with him. He had made Knights by hundreds, and Barons by scores; he does not so now, & will do so no more.

They need not now to reminde him, the sight of his children as a Natural Man, bids him be wary of expence. As for himself, he challenges any one far meaner, to be less inclinable to prodigal humours, of unnecessary things.

What he hath said may move each member to spare him so much as they would spend on a supper, cast away at Dice in a Night, or bestow on a horse for fancy, that may break a Leg or Arm next morning.

Conclusion,Conclusion. freeness in giving graceth the gift; Bis dat qui citò dat; his debts increase till his supply. All eys of forein statutes are upon this affair. Either they are unwilling to help him, or his state desperate not to be repaired, or that they part in disgrace with the King, or he in distast with the Parliament, our reputations were bred abroad and at home, the abilities of retribution to Neighbour Princes of good or harm, works much respect. A King contemned brings War, too late then to be supported, things foreseen are soon remedied.

Meddle not with too much business at once, qui trop embrasse, rien estreint. And recommends to them necessary things. Religion. 1. Religion Papists increase, as if some New plot, the feminine sort so proud that (as men say) they are not to be medled with. It is surer to remove the Materials of fire, then to quench it. Nam levius laedit quicquid praevidimus ante. He means not stronger Lawes, but better Execution. Nor does blood and too much severity; severe persecution makes but the gallantness of many mens spirits (more than justness of the cause) to take a pride, to die in repute of Martyrs.

To clear some obscure doubts in taking the oath of Allegeance, who ought to be pressed therewith. Let all Recusants be presented without exception, and brought under the law. To wink at faults is neither Honor nor Mercy, in a King; but to forgive after Tryal, may be Mercy; dividing them in two [Page] Rancks; Old Papists, Queen Maries Priests, and those that never drank other, than what they suckt of their Mothers milk. Secondly, Or such as do become Apostates from our Religion upon discontent or idle humour, new form as a new fashion: he pities the first, if good and quiet Subjects and may be civil and conversable. But for the other Apostates, they must expect no favour but Justice, and so that these Papists be no longer concealed.

In the Common-wealth. The Common-wealth. He recommends the framing some New statutes for preservatives of Wood, which was the worse liked of you the last Session, because I put you upon it then, so necessary as not to be without it. It concerns their Esse; the most Necessary Elements, Fire and Fuell: Their Bene Esse, decay of Wood, decay of Shipping. The security of this land is from the Sea as a wall, and by the Sea, wealth, Out-going and In-coming of commodities. If you will add pleasure Hawking and Hunting, some of them may be of his minde in that too, and preferre Game almost destroyed. He thought them but little, for their last law annent Partridges and Phesants, that every Farmer may destroy them in his own ground. So that if my brede fly over the hedg to his close, they are at his pleasure, the onely remedy to cast a Roof over all my ground, or put his Vervels on all Partridges, as on his Hawks, so to be known by his Army.

And for their law against stealing of Dear or Conies. After their tedious discourse and prohibition, they conclude with restriction onely to stealers in the Night, Like the Lacedemonian Law against theft, not forbidding it, but to do it cunningly, whereupon the foolish Boy suffered the Fox to gnaw his heart through his breast. Like the lesson of the Canon; Si non castè, tamen cautè. Exclaims also against the Gentlemen, that hunt not for sport, but ravenly with Nets and Guns destroy the Game.

And ends as he began, the mirror of his heart.

1. Which may be abused with a false light, to mistake or misunderstand him.

2. Not to soil it with foul breath, and unclean hands; not apt to pervert his words, with corrupt affections, like the toll of a Bell to some mens fancying, what it tincketh, that he thinketh.

3. Glass is brittle; if it fall to the ground it breaks; to contemn his heads, is not to conform to him. But he hopes with Gods blessing all things will end well: so farewell.

And for this the Kings good Counsel to his Law-makers, they rewarded him with one Subsidy and one fifteen, which came to one hundred and six thousand, one hundred sixty and six pounds.

[Page] These times of plenty intice the Gentry to spend at London, where the concourse of people raised the house rents, Prices, Markets, and robbed the Countrey of their commerce in the Neighbourhood of the wealthy House-keepers, for refreshing the poor, & discharging that burthen which it brought upon the Commons (as hath been said.)

To restrain them, another Proclamation forbids all new buildings,Procl [...]mation against [...]ncrease of buildings about London. within two miles of London; This and other the like Inconveniences, not giving leasure to the Parliament to advise upon remedy, the Council-Table took care to rectifie. And therefore hereabouts, began the frequent necessity of publishing Proclamations, which were cunningly carped at, by such as could not endure, that any Commands should come forth, without license of the Lower-house.

And not only now and (heretofore) but from time to time during this Kings Reign, the new buildings increasing in and about London were endeavoured to be suppressed, the chief Justice Popham and all other succeeding, resolved in opinion, their great Nusance to the whole Kingdom, like the spleen in Man, which in measure as it over-grows, the Body wasts, the Countrey must diminish if the City and Suburbs so increase; not bringing wealth, but misery & surcharge to them and the Court, and therefore at Christmass the Gentry were commanded into their Countrey, to keep Hospitality then and after.

Peace and plenty with us,Truce between Spain and the Netherlands. taught our Neighbours to court their own necessities into a blessing also, and humbled the High-spirited Monarch of Spain, to descend to a Treaty for a Truce with his Rebell-Subjects, (held so in former dayes) the United provinces of the Netherlands, which in much policie, he soon concluded, not with very religious resolve on either part longto continue, for the Dukedome of Cleve descending to nice point of dissention, between two neighbor Princes Pretenders, Brandneburg and Newburg, The house of Austria quarrells his Interest also, and got hold of the strong Town of Iuliers.

The French K. evermore near at hand, to draw back any advance to the swelling greatness of Spain, Siege of Juliers. was a ready friend to assist the Dutch, who liked no such Neighborhood, and K. Iames, not unwilling to adjoyn his countenance, and forces out of the General Interest of all states, to ballance the over-powring of Neighbor Nations; he being always more ambitious of hindring them, for invading one the other, than under any pretence of Title, or revenge, apt to question or conquer upon any others possession; and all three not staying any further dispute, or delay of a Treaty therein, with a threefold Bond of an Army, besieges the Town, and with little difficulty took it for the right owner.

[Page] But what other Interest, King Iames had in this quarrel, I know not, unless upon the old score of affection to a kinsman of the Scots, and a suffering Prince. The Duke of Guelders and Iuliers, Duke of Guelders and Juliers, &c. his descent, & last of the race. of whom this Duke was descended, had been ancient and Magnanimous Kings of Saxonick-frizeland for many ages. The younger Brothers of that House, had been Kings of England for neer 600. years, untill the time of Edward the confessor; The first Counts of Holland, till Florus who was the last, were younger Brothers of that descent. Amongst whom one William was the 26. Emperour of Germany; The last Kings of Scotland by alliance were of the same house of Egmont, to wit, the Grand-children of the Lady Mary of Egmont, daughter to Arnold of Egmont, Duke of Guelderland, which Mary was married to Iames the second King of Scotland. And the Lady Margaret his sister espowsed to Frederick the second, Count Palatine, from whence proceeded Frederick, who married the sole daughter of this King Iames the sixth, for whose restauration all Germany, and many other large Countries, have suffered very much, in the late years then following.

I may add also the Lady Philippa of Egmont daughter to Adolphus of Egmont, Prince of Guelderland, married to Renatus, Duke of Lorain, from whom descended the Dukes of Lorain, who assume among their titles (without any Contradiction) the qualities of Dukes of Guelderland, Iuliers, and Cleveland; and that by virtue alone of the Alliance with Egmont.

But greatness submits to providence, the remainder of this royall blood is lately Anno. 1654. wholy shut up in the veins of Prince Lewis Duke of Guelders and Iuliers, Count of Egmont and Zutphen. His great Estate and Revenues relinquishing in the Low Countreys 22. years before his death, and sustained himself only with the means of a petty Sovereignty in Lukeland in spite of the Spaniard his mortal Enemy, but ranging abroad to seek relief and support against his Tyranny, he died at Paris with this Epitaph.

Hic jacet Egmontos, Germano è stemmate Regum.

Cui mors plus peteret, quam sua vita dedit.

Huic ctenim Patrios quaerebat vita ducatus.

At mors nobilior regia sceptra dedit.

As for the Netherlands, The Netherlands sometime subjects to Spain. It belongs not to me to judge of their duty to Spain, nor their division now, whether Spain hath injured them: certainly they were disloyal to him. He pretends Absolute Sovereignty, They but conditional obedience. But without dispute, Holland and Zeland belonged to the Lady Iaquelin of Henault, who to save her own life was forced to relinquish her Estate; And Zutphen and Gelders did [Page] of right belong to the Duke Arnold, who being Prisoner with the last Duke of Burgundie, who died before Nancie, that Duke intruded upon his possession, to the prejudice of Adolph his son and lawfull Successor, the immediate cause of the quarrell after.

But this siege of Iuliers was the last action of that fourth Henry Le grand of France: for the next year succeeding: he was stab'd with a Jesuits impoysoned knife,Henry the fourth King of France stab'd. as his Coach stopt upon one of the Bridges at Paris. In the Junto of time, when he had mustered all his forces, and ransacked together much Treasure for some secret design, which the Spaniard feared might fall upon him. And it was suspected for that cause only, that the politick Spaniards Interest sent him out of the world farr enough,60000 l. from prejudice of him, having but lately repayed to this Crown, what had been lent his necessities heretofore by Queen Elizabeth, which came unto sixty thousand pounds.

After five Sessions in six years time,Parliament dissolved. the Parliament having wrastled with Sovereignty, which the King moderated by often speaking to them Himself: & yet finding them more willing to dispute, than to comply with his occasions, having on his part steered with all possible judgment, to terms of reconcilement, between his undoubted Prerogatives, and their Novell Privileges, (as he termed them) which rather increased, Arguments, by their so often Meetings; He resolved therefore, to separate their Conjunction, and to adventure on the other way, to do himself right, by his own just reason, not to do the people any wrong, in the lawes of their liberties; and so dissolved the Parliament by Proclamation.

And now was performed,Henry created Prince of Wales, their dignities. what the King intended last Sessions, to set forth his sonne Prince Henry then of the age of fifteen years, now 16. And because he was the first Prince here since Edward the sixth, we shall say somewhat of his dignity, the thirteenth Prince of Wales.

The Kings eldest sonne & heir Apparant in England, was styled Prince, quasi primum locum capiens post Regem. Priviledg they had to wear Purple Silks and cloth of Gold and Tyssue in his apparell or upon his horse 24. Henry the eighth: but King Iames had repealed all lawes and statutes concerning apparel quarto Iacobi.

They had purveyance, as the Kings or Queens. He is admitted Maintenance, to give Signes, Liveries, Badges to his Menials, as the King does: but for enormities of that kind, several statutes of former Kings abridged them, untill 12. Edward the fourth. He may have as many Chaplains as he will.

The King by Common Law may have aid-money of his tenants by Knights fee, as of Soccage. That is, to make his eldest [Page] sonne Knight, and for marriage of her eldest daughter, (He at fifteen years of age, She at seven (saies Fitz-Harbert) the sum of money at the Kings pleasure till 25 Edward 3. who restrained it, viz. of every Knights fee, See before Knights Bachelors Anno 1603. holden without mean rate 20. shillings of every 20. pounds Land, without mean in Soccage 20. shillings, and so rata pro rata of lands in Soccage, and for lands of the tenure of Chivalry according to the quantity.

To compass his death, or violate his wife is Treason, 20. Henry the eighth, and before the statute, the ancient common law in that case. He and other the Kings children, Les Enfants du Roy, born beyond Seas, shall inherit here.

He had many Priviledges since 12. Edward, whose device it was, to draw the Welch to acknowledge the Kings Eldest sonne Edward of Carnarvan to be their Prince. But 27. Henry the eighth, there was a general resumption of his priviledges, as to Pardon Treasons, Murther, Man-slaughter, Felony; power to make Justices of Oyre, Assize, and Pea [...]e, Goal-Delivery, &c. so from thenceforth he had onely Name and Title, but no other Jurisdiction then should be granted by his letters patents. He is invested with a Garland upon his head, a gold Ring on his finger, and a Virge of gold into his hand, to him and his Heirs the Kings of England for ever, as Prince of Wales and Earl of Chester, To sit at the right hand of the Cloth of Estate in Parliament. He shall not find pledges for profecution of any Action.

Cook cals him Omni, Nomine, Numine, Magnus, by Destiny, Name, and Providence of God the greatest. Yet he is as a Subject, and shall be sued by action, and in token of subjection he bears upon his Arms, the three plumes arg. with this old Saxon word Ich. Dien. I serve. Gascon, chief Justice in the time of Henry the fourth, did commit the Prince, who would have taken a prisoner from the Barr in the Kings Bench, which the King justified. So much premised.

The King gave his sonne also the honor of Knighthood, Ayd mony. to make him capable to dine with the King, and had Ayd-money of the people. An ancient Custome from the Norman Conqueror and never till now disobeyed with any regret, which indeed came but to twenty one thousand and eight hundred pounds. And together he was also created Prince of Wales, Duke of Cornwall, Earl of Chester, &c. with all possible lustre that the father could express.

But however our Historian takes upon him to pry into the Kings Heart, H. Gr. Br. pa. 52. and (though inscrutable) devises a damnable and dangerous jelousie from the father, against the most incomparable Excellent merit of this his first born sonne. [Page] [When afterwards the father saw him (saith he) too high mounted] in the peoples love, and of an alluring spirit, to decline his paternall affections to him, and bring him to the low condition he fell in, may be the subject of my tears (saies he) not of my pen.False suggestions to be impoysoned.

Hic homo erubescit timere Caesarem,

Ecce! Behold this Author,Court, and ch. of King James pa. 84. This Man, Mecenas names him, Hic homo, this fellow, shames not to traduce his Sovereign King, For he lived his Subject. And here begins his trayterous intention, to wound the Kings sacred memory, (as much as in him lies) with a suspition of the death of this excellent Prince; which another wretch says, [was done with Poyson] but of the truth we shall speak anon, when we treat of his natural death, not long after; yet we are told [What his fatherly care had been to match him with the Infanta of Spain, but after some Traverses, in a Treaty it was declined] when in truth it was otherwise to my knowledge,Hist Gr. Br. pa. 52. for I can produce the letters from Sir Dudly Carlton, then Ambassadour at Venice, to the Lord Treasurer Salisbury, Nearer Intention for Prince Henry to match with Spain. being an Accompt to the King how to advize the choice of a Wife, from the Protestant Princes, wherein after a large Narrative of their Interests and particular Characters; he concludes. Thus farr I can confidently Counsel his Majestie, seeing his Religious resolution is fixed to Princes of the reformed Churches. But since I have been over-bold to ballance the weight of his Majesties sacred Intentions with my too much freedom, in the concernments of such eminent Princes, and the hazard of my person in the quality I carry here; I beg of your Lordship, not to suffer these Avisoes to see other light, then the light fire.

And was it likely, (which our Historian inferrs a little before) That after the Powder-Treason, the Murther of the French King, his Majesties speech in Parliament, and the Excellent Acts against Papists, he must hunt for a daughter in law from the farthest part of Christendom? what his second son Prince Charles did after upon the like score,See after anno 1624. we shall in due time and place observe.

The former passages of Jesuits,Papists persecuted by Pens. gave cause to all good Christians, to abhorr their villanies, and set on work the spirits of the pen-men, (such as they were) most sharpe set against them all, that professed the Romish Religion, and to work they went on all hands. The Papists to palliate such Actions as painted out the Jesuit in his devi [...]sh likeness. The Puritan of the reformed Churches, to pick quarrels with all Catholicks alike, and those disputes were spread abroad in several Pamphlets and Pasquells, the Jesuit had friends to pay us, Two for One.

A zealous Church-man of ours, Sutcliffe Doctor of Divinity [Page] procures a Patent for erecting a College at Chelsey near Westminster to consist of a Provost and 20. Fellowes, to be chosen by the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury, the Bishop of London, and the Universities Vice-Chancelors for the time being;Chelsey Coledge founded and why? Intentionally for able men in School divinity, to answer and propose against our Grand Adversary Romanists.

The affections of the people were so pregnant to this purpose, that in short time the Doctor had collected their free contributions of seven thousand pounds, whereout he disburses three thousand pounds, in the building, and buyes land of two hundred pounds rent per annum, with the remainder. And himself becomes the first Provost, and after his death Doctor Featly, Slaughter, and Wilkinson (men of singular learning) successively. So then it was S [...]tcliffe that sunck his own fortune to raise this fabrick, and not Bancroft the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury, who died this year, and much abused in his Character by our Chronicler. Nor did the King afford it more countenance,H. Gr. Br. pa. 53. then wisely to give way to mens wilde fancies, especially when it took fire with the Puritan, for himself soon foresaw, that the witty Iesuit would wish no better sport, then to press us to death with printed Pasquells in place of serious controversies; of which yet, (no doubt also) but Bellarmine had more Bookes to spare us, then his own budget full.

Another reason. (for I must be bound to bundle up Arguments, satisfactory to the Reader, in answer of Calumnies throughout the Hystorian, which makes this book thus bigg)

The other cause, The Title of the land, upon which the College is erected, was passed then by Howard Earl of Nottingham for years, at seven pound rent and a fine, when in truth after the Earls death the 12. Iac. It came to light that the interest was in his Widow during her life (and fourty years after) whom the Lord Mouson maries, and as her Administrator sells the interest to Duke Hamilton, whose delinquencie and death, leaves it to this State. And now 1654. disposed for a Garryson or a Prison, untill a good Customer for sale, puts it to better use. So then you see, the crackt title besides, broke the neck of this new College.

We are fallen upon the Kings first favorite,The Kings favorite Mountgomery. Hist. Gr. Brit. p. 54. with our Hystorians observation, That as Queen Ann had hers, he had his; she loved the Earl of Pembroke, he the younger brother, whom he created Earl of Mountgomery. Men of Considerable descents, though of no fame in their merits, especially the last, of whom (he says) [the King not finding sutable to his humour, his fancie ran upon another young Gentleman] But the man is mistaken, for though the King was no quareller, yet he hated a Coward, and turned Mountgomery out of his affection, for being switcht by a [Page]mean Gentleman (Ramsey) a Scot, at a publick Horse-race. Though this favorite was urged to revenge, and backt by the English, fourty to one to defend him: He basely put it up to his death, and the dishonor of a Gentleman. What his after merits were to his end, let the world judge; he living to full age, and having had his opportunity and choice, to become an honest man.

Indeed the King was never without favorites, but changed them often into one more close and intrinsick, who served the turn for a Notable Skreen of envy, between him and his Subjects, upon whom the people (as they never fail) might handsomely bestow complaints, through his Masters faults. So Carr succeeded him, and his story followes hereafter.

The splendor of the King, See 1612. Masks and Comedies at Court. and Princess with the rest of the royall yssue, the concourse of strangers hither from forein Nations, the multitude of our own people from all parts of our three Kingdoms gave a wonderfull glory to the Court, at this time, the only Theatre of Majesty; Not any way inferiour to the most Magnificent in Christendom; Prince and people increasing in honor and wealth. And it was prudentiall in state to set it forth, with all moderate additions of Feasts, Masks, Comedies, H. G. Br. pa. 54. Balls and such like, which our squeazie stomacht Historian (it seems) could never example in any part of his reading, and therefore sets his Gloss of reproach upon the King and them, but very favourably (forsooth) [as not thereby to provoke himself to stain his innocent paper.]

I shall not trouble the dispute how farr they were politickly used in the Romane Common-wealth and Monarchy, Discussed. how farr tollerable in Christian Kingdoms and States. They are necessary Mirrors, wherin mens Actions are reflected to their own view. Indeed some men privy to the uglyness of their own guilt, have been violent, not onely to crack but to break in pieces all those Looking-glasses, least their own deformities recoyle, and become eye-sores to themselves.

We were wont to call them Theatres, representing in little the Entrance, Acts and Exits of Man, where we may behold Language, Manners, and Behaviour the best; the matter good for Imitation, bad to shun, to teach virtue, reprove vice, and amend manners, tempering the mind for good impression, or defect in most of our youth, thrust into devotion without polite manners, forceably taught on the Stage; where virtue is somewhat more seen to a mortall eye, with admiration, not to inforce men (spight of Humanity) to serve God with austerity, not Jubilation.

This Christall (fullied by time and malitious reports, not without some shadowes of piety, and counterfeit dress to amuze the world for a truth) hath been cleared up to the view by [Page] several Pens, though by King Iames at that time, little valued for his own content, unless as Splendidae Nugae for the dress of Court-like recreations, but evermore with so much wit as might well become the exercise of an Academy. And thus much of playes.

But stay,Our Adversary a Poet and play-maker. It is come to my knowledge, that our squeamish Informer was bred up a Poet, frequently a Rymer and Composer of playes, not without exceeding delight in himself to be so styled, though a mean one: but indeed since the reformation of them, the trade fell to decay, and he turned—trot any way to get money. Such another was A. M. who whilst he kept within the compass of that Dialect did well, and commendably; but turn'd another professor, and ended his daies miserably. He went to Bed, as I am credibly informed, well in health, but disguised with drink, his usual custome, and was found in the morning, his head hung over the Bed-side, his hand leaning on the boards, it seems groveling for breath, being choaked with loathsome blood and flegm, foaming at his mouth, his tongue bleeting out, not able to call for succour of such, as lodged in the next room: so was he drencht, in drink and death.

In this year 1611. was collected a Contribution of well affected Subjects called Loan-money being lent upon Privy Seals, Contribution-money. an ordinary use and custome of all former Sovereigns,111046. l in time of necessity of their Prince, or state affairs and no New device, which now amounted unto One hundred eleven thousand fourty and six pounds, which was repayed back to divers, especially to such as craved satisfaction by money, Defalcation or Composition for other considerations, Satisfactory.

There are sundry ways and means to make men rich,Suttons Hospitall founded. and commonly not so concealed, but it happens within the Ken of some acquaintance. But here we had one Thomas Sutton meanly born and bred, but some subsistence by marrying a widdow at Barwick farr short of wealth. It is rumoured, onelybecause of some probability, (for other we have none) that he bought a Fraight that came thither out of a Dutch Pirate, who (it seems) could not stay to make better market; And therein was found concealed Treasure in some Cask: his first advance; which he so increased by Interest and purchases, as having no heir, he designed a pious foundation at Hallingbury Bowcher in Essex; but afterwards purchased the Charter-house near Smithfield London of the Earl of Suffolk, enriched it with divers dependances of lands and Tenements, for which he paid in hand 13000 l, and procured Letters Patents to erect The Hospital of King James founded in the Charter-house in the County of Middlesex, at the proper cost of Thomas Sutton Esquire, for maintenance of eighty decayed Gentlemen Souldiers, a chamber and dyet, and 8. l a piece pe [...] sion [Page] annually and a cloth-Gown in two years, with a free School for Scholars, Chamber Diet and Apparell, to be governed for the present by the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury, Lord Chancellor, Lord Treasurer, Bishops of London and Ely, chief Iustice, and Iustice Foster, the Attorney general, Dean of Pauls and Worcester, a Master of the Chancery, and four more Gentlemen his familiar friends, and Thomas Brown the first elect Master of the Hospital, and this for ever, and as any Governours die, the Major party to Elect another.

Besides he gave in Legacie so many thousands, as it did astonish all men in those daies, how he came by so much wealth.

Since the Kings absence,Absurd Excommunication and unchristian in Scotland. the Papists were for these last three years much increased in the North parts of Scotland, and complaints made of the funeral Obsequies of the Lord Oglevy and Gight after the Popish rites. And though (as before remembred) some care had been for reducing the Earls Huntley, Angus, and Arroll. Yet of late Huntley returning from England, pretends some commands from the King, to mitigate Ecclesiastical proceeding on his behalf, which encouraged the others, and the rest of their Profession, openly contemning the Church Censures. The Assembly therefore had sent petitions to the King, for further authority to suppress these Inconveniences.

The Kings answer was, That Huntley had no such warrant from him, but pretending that he had kept all injunctions prescribed him, except that of communicating with the Sacrament of the Lords Supper, which the King thought fit for the present, to referr to the Council for time of conforming; but if he did persist, his Majesty would accompt of him as intending the head of a faction, and therefore rather to root him out, than to nourish his follies by a preposterous Toleration. They were therefore confined unto several Cities ten dayes together, there to hear Sermons and admit of conference, and to forbear Papist-priests companies, that the sons of Oglevy and Gight should be committed.

This prescription too strickt,The three Earls revolt. the three Earls revolt and therefore an Assembly was called by the Kings Comand, (for so of late they were regulated not to convene of themselves) and the Names of Papists inrolled were found Numerous, and Huntleys faction in the North were of the most. He being cited, appears not nor sends any excuse, and therefore by the Assembly is excommunicated, and the sentence pronounced publick, and no absolution to be given by any offers of his whatsoever, and the like against Angus, Arrol, and Semple. This was too rigorous and unchristian, the Church being open to all Penitents.

And truly the inconveniences being examined from that [Page] time by the Churches too frequent Excommunicating of many persons fugitives, for Capital Crimes.

The Kings Christian consideration herein, was signified to them by his Commands.

That their Sentences of that kinde were far abused from the first pious policie of institution, for such persons as have been cited before Ecclesiastical judicatures for capital cases, and dare not compeir for fear of Life, are yet excommunicated as Persons contumacious, when onely their fear may excuse their absence, and really cannot be judged Contemners of the Church.

And in truth the Venetian Padre Paulo in his Treatise, So was Padie Paulo Popis [...] ly excommunicated. did learnedly confute the Popes sentence against him, for not appearing in a Cause of Heresie, onely upon his just fear he pretended, and had his Appeal justified by all good Christians, and indifferent men.

Wee may resemble the Scots Courses therein, to the Muscovites manner, who if he be offended with any man, commands him to send his head in a Charger, even so they, will the offender to come into Court and be hang'd, which no Penitent would do, rather to suffer sentence than to hazard themselves into Presbyters handling, a second Inquisition, and so in truth their Church suffers under scandall and contempt. And accordingly their Assemblies were afterwards reduced to conform to Reformation herein.

The Clergies Arguments somewhat Canonicall (if as the Pope they cannot erre) That the Churches form may not be changed, which terrifies the common Man from their Crimes. But then let them be answered from the principall end of such Censures (especially Excommunication) which was reclaiming, not confounding of offenders. The principal use having no place, that other Secondary Ends ought not to be respected. The case of fugitives; How could the Censure avail to their reclaiming, they being absent from admonition? Men in such a Case truly sorrowfull for their sinnee & sentenced, are in truth bound up by the Church whom God hath loosed. But that Church evermore expressed their hot zeal of excommunication by their fire-brand Execution, the pretended Sanction of their Sion.

The lustrous ray and beam of Sovereignty,Earl of Eglington illegally adopts an Heir to his Honors. was intrenched upon by the Heir of the Earl of Eglington in Scotland, being adopted so from him, that had no Successor of birth, or kindred. This man was Sir Alexander Seaton, a Cousin Germain, and with this Proviso by will, That he and his children should take the Name, and use of the Arms of the House of Mountgomery. This bold bearing came to the disquisition (I remember) in our Heralds office, of which, Garter, principall King of Arms, informs the King as an ill President, for though Noblemen [Page] may dispose of their lands, they cannot alienate their honors from the Sovereign fountain of all honours in his Kingdomes. And so Sir Alexander was unlorded, till the Kings grace gave him Creation, some years after the honors of Eglington onely.

The King was had in high esteem,Arminius & Vorstius their Heresies. to be not onely Rex pacificus in temporal affairs, but Nutricius Ecclesiae in spiritual relations to the Church, yet very tender to meddle in politicks of Neighbour Princes, unless by Envoyes and Ambassies of Brotherly advice. But for the state of the Church Reformed, he was pleased to take upon him Defensor fidei with tongue, pen, and sword, if need were.

And there [...]n he gave his reasons for every Christian King to have an Interest, though in Aliena Republica.

And in his hunting progress,Vorstius his blasphemous Books. having met with two Bookes of Conradus Vorstius, who had the degree of Doctor of Divinity at Leyden in Holland, the one Tractatus Theologicus D [...]o, dedicated to the Landt-grave of Hessen, dated 1610. the other his Exegesis Apologetica, dedicated to the States 1611. Upon this latter book,The Kings message to the States. He dispatches commands to Sir Ralph Winwood his Ambassador Lieger, and Counsellor in the Counsel of State in those Countries, in his Name to declare to the States General, Not onely his Majesties high resentment of the Monstrous Blasphemies and horrid Atheism therein, worthy to be burnt, and the Author punished; but also his infinite displeasure,Arminius. to have him succeed Arminius (such another Monster lately dead) Divinity Reader in that University. And though he hath recanted his former Atheisticall opinions; it was too slender Satisfaction, for so foul an Enemie to the Essence of the Deity.

The States General in answer,The States Answer. do most humbly acknowledg his Majesties Princely assistance untill this time for preservation of their bodies, rights and liberties, against their powerfull Enemie, introducing the Inquisition and constraint of their consciences in matters of Religion. That the Curators of the University of Leyden, by custome of that foundation, have the charge to settle that Lecture, and did elect, and send for Vorstius in Anno 1610. from Steinford a Town of the County of Tecklenburgh (the first that cast off the yoke of Papacy in Germany, and so continue) where he was Professor fifteen years, and for Learning much admired by Prince Maurice Landt-grave of Hessen, as worthy of preferment in any University in his Countrey.

And their Message was seconded from his Excellency Prince Maurice, and the State of Holland in his behalf, who notwithstanding had opposition by some; against whom and all others accusers, he challenged the dispute, but they never appeared.

[Page]The next Moneth six Ministers accused him of false and unsound doctrine, and disputed it with him, before the Curators and six other Ministers, in full Assembly of the States of Holland, who all of them adjudged the Election lawfull,Further accusations. and the man full of merit.

The next Moneth after that,And proceedings therein. Certain Articles came over thither and dispersed in printed Pamphlets, to which publick declarations were made by the States; that Vorstius should be ready to answer the intention of the States, being to permit no Profess [...]rs, but according to the Religion reformed and grounded on Gods word, and that if his Majestie were well informed, he would in his high wisdom, prudence, and benignity conceave favourably of their proceedings, they being confident that this business is managed with all due reverence, to his Majesties serious admonition, as becometh them, 1 Octob. 1611.

In the time of these Transactions,Bookes of Vorstius Heresies. Vorstius gives ayme for his Bookes to be brought hither; accompanied with an other De Apostasia sanctorum, and a Letter of the Author Vorstius to the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury, avowing the doctrine therein to agree with the Church of England, and so that Book intended to fire the next Neighbours with this fuell (Non solum paries proximus jam ardebat) was, by order, publickly burnt at Pauls-Cross and both Universities.

The King continuing the Hunt to Unkenell this Fox,The King writes again against them all. writes himself to the States, That notwithstanding his Ambassàdors propositions, They proceed to provide a place for that Corrupted Person, and with Protection and License to print his Apologie dedicated to the States, impudently maintaining those former Execrable Blasphemies; forewarning them of the corrupt seed, of the late Arminius that Enemie of God, and of both their Infections, dividing their Countrey-men into factions so opposite to Unity, as must needs bring them to ruine; Remembers them of his forewarnings, by the effects since of Arminius his tenents, & their distractions bred from thence, shews themthe impudency of one of his Secretaries, Vorstius his Book and Letter. If these be not motives, he prophesies the rent of their Nation, the curse of God, and Infamy to our Religion, wishes to have Vorstius suffer the fire, least his poyson which denies the Eternity and Omnipotencie of God, should invenome their youth, corrupt their souls, and hazard the safety of their State; And threatens them if they fail in his Councils, he will be forced to protest and separate from the Union of their Churches. Westminster 6 October 1611.

The States notwithstanding hasten their own resolutions,Vorstius is preferred Professor of Divinity. and Vorstius was setled in the Chair of Professor, nor did these Letters cool their affections, which heightned Sir Ralph Winwood to make this remonstrance, viz.

[Page]My Lords, if ever the King of Great Britain his Master, hath merited of the states (with great favours and royall assistances themselves with all gratitudes have acknowledged),Sir R. Winwoods speech concerning Vorstius. surely then in these his letters of zeal & piety for establishing that Relion onely within their Provinces, which England, France, Germany have mutually embraced, not regarding otherwise the Persons or Profession of Vorstius or Heresies of Arminius, but as by them Religion to be sophisticated or dipraved by the schismes of Arminius, or the fancie of Vorstius, new devised sects of several pieces of all sorts of Heresies,His Tenen [...]s ancient and modern, and these are they.

Out of his Annotations.

That God hath a Body,Pag. 210, 212. 232▪ 237. 308. 441. 271. so as we take a Body in the Largest sence.

They therefore speak not circumspectly enough who say that God is altogether as unchangeable in his will, as he is in his Essence. We cannot read, That the substance of God is simply immense, nay quite contrary.

No Magnitude is actually infinite, and therefore God is not.

That every event of things were precisely set down from eternity, there needed not then that continual inspection and procuration, which nevertheless is every where attributed to God.

They who teach, That there is in God Universal knowledg in genere answer more fully, but so as they likewise confess, that there be more causes of Certainty, in the visions of things present, then in the vision of things future contingent.

Al things which he hath decreed & determined [...]no modo & actu, he doth after such his determination exactly know them; But this cannot be confirmed of all and every other thing, which are or come to pass being considered severally and [...]y themselves, because they have their existence, not onely successively in time, but also contingently and oft [...]times conditionally.

Out of his Apologie.

That the Fa [...]er hath a certain peculiar being,Pa. 38. 43. or as it were all immitted and [...]ounded essence.

That there are really certain internall accidents in God,Cap. 16. in the very fore-electing mind and will of God.

In the sixteenth Chap. He dissents from the received opinions of Divines, concerning the Ubiquity of Gods presence.

In the nineteenth chap. Pa. 999. He attributes to God magnitude and quantity.

These being in part his opinions, whom they had chosen in the Chair at Leyden, he conjures them to beware, Ne quid Respublica detrimenti capiat, The disciples of Socinius seek him [Page] for their Master. He is a bird of their own feather, let him go, Et dignum sane patella Operculum, and your own Students at Leyden 56. of them by their Remonstrance but the last year to the States of Holland, besought not to be compelled to receive him, who is convinced of his Errors, by the Divinity Colleges at Basil and H [...]ydelburgh, by evidence out of his own writings.

These reasons with the general petitions of all Ministers, (except of Arminius) may no doubt prevail.

And withall he tells them, that his Majesty moves them to set down some certain Reglement in Religion, to restrain licentious disputations, and absolutely to depress the liberty of prophecying, so much recommended by Vorstius in his Epistle to the States, of his Anti-Bellarmine, so much boasted of.

And remembring them of their Valiances in defence of their liberties of Consciences for fourty years wars, they would not now make their actions Example for the Sect of Arminius; Conclusion, to proclame that wicked doctrine of Apostacy of Saints.

And concludes that Religion is the Soder of Amity between his Majesty and Them; wherein if they grow cold, their friendships will freeze.

After six weeks delay, though prosecuted for an Answer, they tel him, How they have deliberated upon all former passages, and thank his Majesty for his affection to their Countrey and preservation of the Reformed Religion, and did thereupon order, That Vorstius should not be admitted, nor is but as an Inhabitant; and unless he can clear his accusations, The States of Holland and West freezeland before February next, (the time of their meeting) would then decide the difference.

And thus much was all what could be done, in respect of inconvenience and distast to the principal Towns of those Provinees.

This being all, and in effect worse then nothing,And Protestation. Winwood resolves to Protest, and did in their publick Assembly.

He begins (like the Advocates in France, with a Latin sentence out of the Scripture.) Si peccaverit in te frater tuus, argue eum inter te; si audiverit te, &c. si non adhibiruum atquae alterum, &c. si non eos; dic Ecclesiae, and so recounting the Kings favours to them, the whole matter of Vorstius and the proceedings thereupon, concludes for those reasons he does in his Majesties Name, protest against the receiving and retaining of Vorstius, and against the violence offered unto the Alliance, betwixt the King and Them; founded on the Reformed Religion which they have violated, of which his Majesty is so sensible, if reparation be not speedily made, as his Majesty will further declare to the world in print.

To this they Answer,States Answer. That however his Maiesty hath not [Page] as yet received contentment in the business of Vorstius, as he might expect, but at the Assembly in February next, his Majesty shall receive entire satisfaction.

The time come, and the Assembly continuing their settlement of Vorstius, The Kings Declaration against Vorstius. the King imprints a Declaration, giving his reasons very learned in many particulars, why he engaged In aliena Republica.

The glory of God, See more in the Kings works. The Christian charity to his Neighbours and Allies, especially towards the Houshold of faith, The impoysoning of their youth, Quo semel est imbuta recens, servabit odorem Testa diu; and the Apostle Saint Iohn, in that respect, Ne dicas illi Ave; and answers all objections and excuses for Vorstius, with this Maxime, that even in doubtfull questions, Men are naturally inclined co choose the evill, and leave the good, as Du Bartas saies of the destruction of Sodom.

De peur qu'en Offensant des saincts l'oreille tendre,

Ie ne les semble plus enseigner, que reprendre.

For fear of offending good peoples Eare,

I rather teach then with them forbear.

Then the King falls upon his Bookes,And against his Bookes. especially His modest Christian answer, and first in his Preface it is observed, how in love he is with himself and his Nick-Name, Purus putus Evangelicus, a mainly pure Gospeller: and indeed the ancient Hereticks called themselves Catharoi; and another Sect, the Anabaptists, Puritans; from whence all our Pr [...]cifians in these latter times, who fancying to refuse conformity, with the orders of our Church, borrow that Name: and Gospeller is assumed by many, yet more usual in Hungary and Bohe [...]e, where are infinites of Sects, agreeing onely in Unity, against the Pope.

As for this Book; His Arguments are either sophistical or frivolous, abusing the fathers: and he extracts divers questions thereout, thirteen in Number, with his resolve on them.

Wherein the King notes the others cunning to maintain them: and how he easily proves Quidlibet è quolibet, (as the old Hereticks Arius and Samosatenus usually did) and so leaves all to Gods will, and the States discretion, as they will answer it before God. And though Vorstius died not long after, his tenents increased to a high distemper in that State. But what the King desired to suppress in this Man,Legat and Whithman burnt for Her [...]sie. gave example for him to punish in others under his own power: and therefore in this year came to the Stake a Couple, the most damnable Hereticks; Edward Whithman burned at Lichfield; and Bartholo [...]ew Legat in Smithfield London, somewhat applying to the Ranters of these our times 1654. Legat held these opinions.

[Page]That the Creeds Nicene and Athanasius, do not contain the true Christain faith.

That Christ is begotten and made.

That there are no Persons in the God-head.Legats Heresies. That Christ was not God from everlasting, but began to be God when he took flesh of the Virgin Mary. That the World was not made by Christ. That the Apostles teach Christ to be man onely. That there is no generation of God but of Creatures. That this Assertion, God to be made Man, is contrary to the rule of faith, and monstrous Blasphemy. That Christ was not before the fullness of Time, except by promise. That Christ was not God, otherwise then an Annointed God. That Christ was not in the form of God, equall with God, that is, in substance of God, but in righteousnes and giving salvation. That Christ is not to be prayed unto.

Whitemans Opinions were in effect these, come of Ebionites,Whitemans Heresies. Cerinthians, Valentinians, Arians, Macedonians, Simon Magus, Manes, Manichee, Photinus, and Anabaptists, and of other Heretical, Execrable and unheard of opinions.

That there is not the Trinity of Persons in the Unity of the Deity. That Christ is not the true Natural sonne of God, perfect God of the same substance, Eternity and Majesty with the Father in respect of his God-head. That Christ is onely Man and a meer creature, and not God and Man in one Person. That Christ took not humane flesh of the substance of the Virgin. That, that promise, the seed of the woman shall break the Serpents head, was not fulfilled in Christ, &c. And that God had ordained him, the said Whiteman, to perform his part in th [...] work of the salvation of the world. These and the rest were written, subscribed, and by him delivered to the King 9. Martii 1611.

Thus in those times Hereticks took some pains to preferre themselves to the Divel.Adamites Incests. But now a days we sport our souls away; Amongst many strange Ones, I wonder most at this meriment of the Adamites. Picardus was the first that possest silly people, with the perfect State of Adam, placed them in an Iland for that purpose which he called Paradise, caused them to walk n [...]ked, and called them Adamites. Horrible sins were committed by them under that pretence, promiscous whoredoms, and Incest at their Service; and when their Saint-Minister pronounceth the word Crescite et Multiplicamini et replete terram, the [...]ights are suddenly extinct, and without any respect to Alliance or kindred, they mingle like brute beasts; and their wickedness we [...]ied, the lights are tinded, and they returned to their service. But now with more Infamy their Innocencie will be li [...]hted; they sp [...]re not openly to act in the face of Heaven at Noon-day.

I know Our Adversaries the Romanists, Wald [...]nses [...]in [...]. lodge this device [Page] upon the ancient Waldenses, poor harmless souls havocked by the Armies of the Military,Anno 1612. mercyless Papists; Adamites, says One, that went naked (an affront to Nature) Indeed poor men rather Nudati than Nudi, forced thereto by the Popes Legate, who at taking of Cariassone in France (whither these people swarmed) granted them Life on condition that the Males and Females should pass by his Army stark naked.

I may be censured by some,I may be c [...]nsured by some. how unusefull it might be to imprint to the publick these damnable opinions: but in that I may be justified by Examples of the Fathers mentioning such Heresies, and of Councils and Declarations from time to time, against such Tenents.

The next Favorite [a new-come young Man] was Robert Carr a Scotish-man of no Eminencie,Robert Carr a favorite. But a Gentleman by his bearing Gules, on a Cheviron Arg; 3. Mullets, Sable; in the dexter point of the Escocheon, a Lion, passant gardant Or. And yet himself remembred the King in his Letters (hereafter his fall) of his Ancestors merit (of which truly I have not read.) This Man had been Page of honour to the King in Scotland, and so may be the first and last original Actor on the Theatre of his family. The beginner as an excellent workman in bringing his Tooles and making his Materials; but his own Ruine by basely degenerating from what his Master had made him in short time, giving end to the structure.

In truth he became the first Favorite, That is one whom the King fancied meerly for his fashion; upon no other score: and it was enough for the present, his Master sufficiencies needed no other instructions, onely to choose him apt for impressive Marks of honour, better becomes the Sovereigns Creation, than to be made so to his hand.

And therefore after Knighthood he was soon Baron of Brandspeeck, Viscount Rochester, and had the Garter to boot. And we are told [the King took much pains to teach him Latine, Hist. Gr. Br. pa. 55. as a most needfull Improvement unto a capability of his affections] but this his opinion sents more of a Poet, than a Courtier.

[And so mounted by the wings of Love more than merit (he says) the Earl of Salisbury, Treasurer, casts many Mists to damp his passage] and tells the old wives tale [of 1000l. a gift to the Viscount, which was spread upon a Table in Silver, and the King invited thither, which Mass of money so amazed his Majesty, that the half thereof was concluded too much for any Man.]

Amongst these passages [of fancie] in the King,Queen Mary of Scotland her corps inte [...]red at Westminster Anno 1586. he forgot not that of fame, for his Mother, what she had been and where interred enough hath been said, but not sufficient for him to [Page] do untill he had removed her Corps from Peterborough, (where she had been buried) and brought her with all solemn magnificence into a statelier Tomb at Westminster, which could not well become his Predecessor to admit, though (perhaps) repenting the stain of her honour and sex in the Act of her execution, but left it (a piaculous Act no doubt) for her own son to perform, who yet in this has his bane from the Author,Hist Gr. Br. pa. 62. [that for all his anger at her death, his clamour was closed up with a large Pension from Queen Elizabeth] and Patrick Grey his Ambassadour to implore for his Mothers life is now belyed in his grave, [as the greatest Instrument to hasten her death] with a Label in his mouth of the writers own devising.

Mortua non Mordet.

The King mindefull of matching his only daughter the Princess Elizabeth, Prince Palatine a suitor to Princess Elizabeth. had made several overtures the year before, amongst the Protestant Princes of Germany. And for the better, fixed upon Frederick Prince Elector Palatine, who at this time came hither to consummate the Marriage.

But in the middest of his wooing he was accompanied with mourning,Prince Henryes sickness and death vindicated. by the death of Prince Henry. Of him somewhat more must be said, Not that his Excellent merits needs other Memory, than publick fame, and of us silence of the grave. Yet we must ravel into his disease ere we come to vindicate his death which an Author basely labors to lode his father with, & that [by impoysoning.]Hist Gr. Br. pa. 72.

Prince Henry was born at Sterling Castle in Scotland, February 1594. the first son to King Iames & Queen Anne.

His breeding apted his excellent inclination to all exercises of Honour, and Arts of knowledg which gave him fame, the most exquisite hopefull Prince in Christendo [...].

In the nineteenth year of his age appeared the first symptome of change, from a full round face, pleasant disposition, to be paler and sharp, more sad and retyred, often complaining of a giddy heavyness in his fore head, which was somewhat eased by usual bleeding at the Nose, and that suddenly stopping was his first distemper.

He retyred to his Palace [...] Richmond pleasantly seated by the River Thames, (thoughnow destroyed into rubbish) which invited him to learn to swim in the Evening after a full supper, the first immediate pernicious cause of stopping that gentle flux of bloud, and so putrifying might ingender his fatal Feaver.

He used violent exercises: for at this time he rode to meet the King at Bever in Lincolnshire in two days, near a hundred miles, in extremity of Summer.

[Page]There and at other places all that progress he accustomed to feasting, Hunting, Balloon, and Tennis, with too much violence. And now returned to Richmond, in the fall of the leaf he complained afresh of the pain in his head inclining to feverish, and then, for the rareness thereof, called the new disease.

The tenth of October he took his Chamber, and began Counsel with his Physician Doctor Hammond, three days after he fell into a Looseness, fifteen times in a day.

Then removes to London to Saint Iames his Palace, contrary to all advice, allowing himself too much liberty in a great match at Tennis in his shirt, with the Palsgrave and Count Henry of Nassaw, lately come over upon fame to see him.

And on Sunday the 25. of October fell into sudden sickness, fainting with heat and head-ach, that left him not whilst he had life, takes his bed in great drought and little rest.

The next day increasing, high Pulse, ill Urine, Doctor Mayern prescribes him a Glister, after which he rose and very cheary, but lookt Pale, dead sunk eyes, and great drought, and therefore Mayern and Nasmith advised to let him bloud, but the other Physicians disagreeing, it was unhappily deferred.

The fourth day of his sickness, comes Doctor Butler that famous Man of Cambridge, he approved of what had been done, consented to what should be given to him, and hopes of Recovery.

This Evening two Hours after sun, set, appeared a Lunar Rainbow, Lunary Rainbow, directly over the House, which was held Ominous.

The six and seven days increasing his Disease.

The eighth, the Physicians bleed the Median of his right Arm eight ounces, thin and putrid: after which he found ease, and was visited by the King, Queen, Duke, Palsegrave, and Sister.

The ninth worse than before, Doctor Atkins assisted their opinions, That his disease was a Corrupt putrid fever seated under the Liver in the first passage, the Malignity by reason of the putrefaction (in the highest degree) was venemous.

The tenth, increasing Convulsions and Feavers, Mayern advised more bleeding, but the rest would not; applying Picheons and Cupping-Glasses to mitigate the pain.

The eleventh small hopes, His [...]aplains continuing daily devotions with him, the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury, and Doctor Melburn Dean of Roch [...]ster, with whom the Prince daily prayed.

The twelfth no hope, The King with excessive grief removes to Kensington house: All imaginable helps, Cordialls, Diaphoretick, and quintessential spirits, and a water from Sir Walter Ralegh in the Tower, all these by consent, administred without

[Page]And so he died at eight a clock that night Fryday the sixth of November 1612.

The Corps laid out, the fairest dearest and well proportioned, without any spot or blemish.His Corps viewed.

The next day, solemnly appointed for Imbowelling the Corps, in presence of some of the Council, all Physicians, Chirurgions, Apothecary, and the Palsgraves Physician. And here followes the very Coppy of their view under their Hands.

The Skinn blackish, but no way spotted with blackness or pale marks, much less purpled like flee bites could shew any Contagion, or pestilentiall venome. His kidnies, Hips, and Thighs full of redness, his Belly (because his continual lying upon his back) swollen.

The Stomack whole and handsome without any taint.

The Liver marked with small spots above, and small lines below. The Gall-Bladder full of wind, The Spleen blackish fil'd with black blood, The Kidnies without blemmish.

The Midrife under the Film or Membrance, containing the Heart spotted with black redish colour by reason of brusing.

The Lungs blackish, with spots full of adust blood, corrupt and thick, they concluded an extream heat, the Throat and Tongue covered with blackness which was clest and dry.

The hinder Veins (Piamater) swoln, aboundance of blood more than naturall.

The substance of the brain fair and clear, the other parts by reason of the convulsions, resounding, benumings, and of fullness, choaking the Natural heat and destroying the Vitalls by their Malignity, have conveyed him to the Grave without any toaken or accident of poyson.

In quorum fidem presentem relationem manu propria subsignavimus septimo die Novembris.

Mayern,

Atkins,

Hamond,

Palmer,

Gifford,

Butler,

It is added, that his admirable patience in his sickness might deceive his Physicians, never dreaming danger. His Urine shew'd none, but the state of his grief lay closely rooted in his head.

He dyed in the rage of a Malicious Extraordinary burning Feaver.

And was Interred at Westminster 1612.Interred at Westminster.

His Motto's, ‘Pax mentis, Honestae gloria. Iuvat Ire per altum.’

Hee was comely tall,His character. five foot eight Inches high, strong and [Page] well made, broad shouldred, a small wast, amiable with Majesty, Aborn Hair, long faced, broad forehead, a peircing grave Eye, a gracious smile, but with a frown, daunting.

Courteous and affable, naturally shamefast and modest, patient and slow to anger, mercifull and judicious, secret of any trust, even from his youth. His courage Princelike, fearless, noble, and undaunted; Saying, that nothing should be impossible to him, which had been done by another; Religious and Christian.

He was never heard to swear an Oath; and it was remembred at his funeral Sermon by the Arch-bishop, that he being commended by one for not replying with passion in play, or swearing to the truth, he should answer, that he knew no game or value to be wonne or lost could be worth an Oath.

To say no more, such and so many were his virtues, that they covered the semblance of sin.

But think what we will,False suspition of poyson. one that sucks venome says [he was anatomized to amuse the world, and to clear the impoyson as a Court trick to dawb it over.]Hist. G. Br. pa. 64. We are like to have much truth from such a prejudicate Pen-Man.

The Prince Palatine and Maurice Prince of Orange (by a Deputy) were installed Knights of the Garter this Christmass. Prince Palatine m [...]ried to P [...]inc [...]ss Elizabeth. And in February following the Marriage with the Princess Elizabeth, was solemnized with all pomp and glory, together with the peoples hearty affections, [...]a. 65. expressed in their Ayd-mony (Contribution he calls it) for her Marriage, which is a due debt or ancient Custome, and no [absolute thing] whether or no that [the obedience of the subject had been ripe (or rotten) thereto] and it came to twenty thousand and five hundred pounds.

And in Aprill after he returnes with his Bride through the Netherlands to his own principall City Heidelbergh in the Palatinate, from whence his finite miserable banishment took begining in Anno 1613.

A Scotish Baron one Sanquair having wasted his own,Sanquair a Scotish Baron hanged for murther. pieced up his Patrimony by mariage with another, an heir in England; and having worn out hers also, with the death of his Lady, He seekes to save the poor remain, by sparing it abroad, a Custome of Gallants taken up to salve their credit, which (they say) Parsimony disparages, unless from home in forein soil, and ere he went over, His fate was to try mastery, with Turner a Master of defence in his own Art, wherein Sanquair had much of knowledg, but more of opinion.

Turner was the most of skill in that Profession, whom the Baron challenges at three hits, and inforced upon him the first of three, with over-much conceipt and clamour of his Scots companions to over-Master the best in England, and him in his [Page] own Schoole too in the face of some Schollars; an affront to all. The man sensible of his credit more than conscience, in Malice to do mischief, opened his Body to the advantage of his Adversary, who too neer pressing it home, Turner takes it on his Brest, being sure thereby to pop Sanquire in the eye, so deadly, that he dasht it out. The Baron guessed at this evil hap by his own Intention, to have done worse himself. But by Turners regret of this mischance, they parted, patience perforce.

At Paris the King pittyed his loss, a great defect to a handsome gallant, and asked him why the man dyed not that did it. This Item the Divell so drove into his fancie, that hastily brings him home again, where he hired two of his own kindred, Grey and Carliel to kill him, which they did basely, by a brace of Bullets in his own House White-Fryers, And all three got time to fly. The one taken in Scotland, the other on Ship-board, and the Barons head praysed at a thousand pounds; he fearing thereby to be forced into Justice, thought it safer to throw himself into the hands of Mercy, by presenting it; and so represented by the Bishop of Canterbury, he might appear an obiect of pitty. But the wound was universall, and the blood-shed not to be wiped off, but by his death ignoble as his Act, the Halter; equall guilt had even punnishment, all the three Gallows.

Some difficulty there was, how to proceed with the Baron, who first came in, for Carlile and Grey being Principals, and not as yet convict, the Law could not proceed to the Tryall of Sanquair being but Accessary. But then the other two flying, they were out-lawed, and so attainted of felony, and then the Accessary was tryed: for there are but three kinds of Attainder, by Outlary, Verdict or Confession. See after in the case of Weston for impoysoning of Overbury, who stood Mute sometime; that while, the Accessaries could not be convict Anno 1615.

The next Moneth brings to the Grave that excellent States-Man Treasurer Cecil Earl of Salisbury. Treasurer Salisbury dies. He was descended from the Sits [...]lts in Hartfordshire (Vorstegan sa [...]es, from Cecilii the Romanes) they suffered some persecutions in the time of Henry the eight and Queen Mary. His father William came into favour by Edward the sixth, who gave him Knighthood, His Fat [...]ers descent, and took him to his Counsell and in the Office of Secretary of State, but in some obscurity afterwards under his Sister Mary, was restored again by Queen Elizabeth in the same trust, so soon as she was setled in her Crown, and by degrees increases him to honour;And preferments. First Baron of Burleigh, Then Lord Treasurer and Knight of the Garter, he died Chancelor of the University of Cambridge Anno 1598. and was intombed at Stanford; Leaving two sonnes. The Elder Thomas then Lord President of the North, and by King Iames created Earl of Excester, and privy Counsellor of State. [Page] He died some years after, discreet and honourable, whom the world could never tax with any taint.

This other sonne Robert was a true inheritor of his fathers wisdome,Earl of Salisburies preferments. and by him trained up to the future perfections of a judicious States-man.

After his Knighthood by Queen Elizabeth, the first imployment from Court (for he was not at all bred out of it) sent him Assistant with the Earl of Derby, Ambassadour to the French King. At his return she took him second Secretary with Sir Francis Walsingham, after whose disease he continued principal, and so kept it to his death, Not rel [...]nquishing any preferment, for the addition of a greater; A remarkable note, which few men of the Gown could boast off. His father liv'd to see him thus far setled in these preferments, and afterwards Master of the Wards and Liveries.

These he held to the Queens death, being in all her time used amongst the men of weight, as having great sufficiencies from his father who begat them also.

Those offices here in publick, with perpetual Correspondence by Emissaries of his own, made him capable of reception with King Iames, who was advised by him, how to be received of his people: His merits certainly appeared to his Master, that added to his former preferments, even to the day of his death, as first Baron Essenden, Viscount Cranburn and after Earl of Salisbury, Knight of the Garter, and Lord Treasurer of England.

It behooved the King to bestow on him the weight of that staff,His Merits. the Coffer then in some want, which was not likely soon to recover, but to increase debt, by the charge of a treble Court of King, Queen and Children, and therefore many ways were devised to advance the Revenue, particularly in that of honor for Knights, Court and ch. King James pa. 12, 13. Baronets, which was not this Earls onely design [as some will have it] Nor of Somerset hereafter [as another saies;] But it was began a little before this Lords death,Hist. Gr. Br. pa. .76▪ as will follow hereafter.

I know what some have surmized, to prejudice his Memory if it were possible, who with little pains may be sufficiently vindicated, and his Merits amply related; being of somewhat concernment to me, to speak my own knowledg, again, to enlighten the dark shadows that always wait on shining merit.

But all his care and pains not able to fill the Coffers, so much exhausted, and the Estate in a Retrograde consumption, He did before his death (not usual with Courtiers) present his Patent of Master of Wards at the Kings feet, and so the whole benefit became the profit of the Crown.

By former constitutions of this Realm,Court of Wards how erected and established. all the Lands of this [Page] Nation, held by two Tenures by soccage or by Knights service by the Plough to free us, or by the sword to defend us, and who so died,Court of Wards how erected and established. leaving an Heir within age, unable to do this Service, his Heir and Lands fell both to the protection of the Sovereign. And this in antient time was promiscuously carried in the Court of Chancery, untill the middle of Henry 8. when this Court of Wards was first erected. Since which time the Masters thereof, by favour of the Sovereign, did accustome (as a bounty of State) to grant unto Noblemen, the Kings Servants, and their own followers, both the marriage of the body, and the Lease of the Lands, for a third penny, of their true value; which also in several relations, by frequent Orders and Declarations of that Court in print, have been altered and changed, till now of late the whole Court and quality thereof is absolutely dissolved as a grievance too burthensome, for a free State and people, anno 1648.

He indured some time of sickness and died in his return from the Bath, at Saint Margarets, at Master Daniels house in May, 1612. and was entombed at his Mannour of Hatfield a princely seat in Hertfordshire.

His death opened the doors for the King to dispose his Place of profit,His Offices disposed to others. Suffolk Lord Treasurer, Rochester Chamberlain, Sir W. Cope Master of the Wards, and the Favourite made Secretary. the Treasurership upon the E. of Suffolk, whose office of Lord Chamberlain fell to the Favourite Viscount Rochester; the Wards to Sir Walter Cope, who lived not long to enjoy it, being of weak constitution, carefull and painfull in his duty, of great experience in the affairs of Court and State, bred up first under Burlegh, and at his death delivered up to his son Sir Robert Ce [...]il, with whom he continued the most exact Confident and counsellour to the end of his days.

And the Favorite also was made Se [...]retary of State, belike for some suddain improvement of his Latine Tongue, which his Master is said to teach him.

His Confident was one Thomas Overbury, Sir T. Overbury his story. a man of good parts, a Student of Lincolns Inn, lately returned from Travell; besides, it was Carr's first principle (and no mean one) to please the English, by entertaining them his Domesticks; for having not many Kindred or Friends to lean upon, he might be forced to stand upon his own strength, and the kindness of strangers.

This Overbury, had most strickt friendships with Carr, A Friend to Rochester. lately created Viscount Rochester) and therefore soon knighted; and if we may credit his own vaunt, (being indeed insolent) he would brag, that the Viscounts advance in business of Court, and Secrecies of State, proceeded from him, which he managed, and made common.

And the knowledg of this coming to the King, he tenderly [Page] blamed his Favourite, for such freedom in his Masters affairs. This advice made him less communicable in those Mysteries, which Overbury took ill, and with scornfull resentment told Rochester, that indeed he deserved to be better imployed than to attend as his Tutor.

And therfore he desired to have the Honour and Preferment of an Ambassy Leiger then intended abroad,D [...]sign'd Ambassadour, as best fitting his good parts, (and greater pride, of which he had sufficient) to present the Kings person; conceiting perhaps, that the power which he usurped, in the Visco [...]nts affection, would work some regret upon him; which Overbury knew how to master for a better advantage.

But when Rochester had wisely considered, that there would be no great loss of so loose a Friend▪ and that Overbury, though an Osier of his own planting, would not be wrought in any purpose, but to his own self-pride, hastily put the Design forward, drew up his Instructions, (with some Additionals of Overburies, (for I copied them) and this being in earnest, then Overbury would not go,Refuses to go. for which high Contempt the King and Council sent him to the Tower.

'Tis true, some Moneths before, Rochester made Court to the Countess of Essex, (who did not, that loved a Lady▪) which Overbury misliked, upon no score of Religion or Virtue, but to ballance with his ambition and vanity, and to obtrude any Copartnership in his friends affection, especially of the House of Howards, whom mortally he hated upon private malice; for to some mens knowledg, he would scornfully report (not long before) that she was won by Letters of his inditing (which I have read) and by that means, endeavoured to bring them to Bawdery, the beginning of all their future ruines, as you shall hear the next year.

The Kings expence brings him to account with his Exchequer, The King wants money. where his Exits increasing the In-comes, he intends better husbandry to piece out his Expences; and having taken into his Houshold Sir Arthur Ingram a Merchant bred,Sir Arthur Ingram. who by his wit and wealth, came to be his Cofferer, the vast expence of the state keeping the Treasury dry, his abilities discover the cunning craft of the Merchant; for the Customers had cozened the King, engrossing by that means, the wealth of Trading, which was therefore raised to an higher Farm. The same use was made at Court, which he taught the Green-cloath by Retrench, and he is called by Sir A. W. Court and Ch. pag. 87. therefore [an evil Bird that defiles his Nest] (what is he then who defiled the Court, that gave him breeding, defam'd the King that gave him bread?) The King put this course in practice at Court, (somewhat differing I confess) in the Line of Ascent to the Houshold preferment, which rises by order & succession) [Page] and this man a stranger in Court stept in, to discover the concealments of the Green-cloath also; and when this Tide had its Ebb, it returned again to his wonted channel; and 'tis true, the King shifted the fault upon his Favourite, an ordinary fate, which often accompanies them to bear the burden of their masters mistakes, which yet was but an experiment, proper enough for the L. Chamberlain Rochester to put in practice, whose creature he was.

But we may not forget our good Lord of Essex, our digression most necessary to his story, which was thus:

There was, amongst other persons of Honour and quality in Court, E. of Essex and his Countess, Car and Overbury their stories intermixt. a young Lady of great birth and beauty, Frances the Daughter of Thomas Howard Earl of Suffolk, married in underage unto the Earl of Essex, now become a forward stripling, she two and twenty, and he three and twenty years; of him common fame had an opinion (grounded upon his own suspition) of his insufficiency, to content a Wife.

And the effects of this Narration (with the sequel of his life and conversation, with his second Wife) is so notorious, as might spare me and the Reader our several labours, for any other convincing arguments.

But with the first, when both were of years, to expect the blessing of the Marriage-bed, he was always observed, to avoid the company of Ladies, and so much to neglect his own, that to wish a Maid into a mischief, was, to commend her to grumbling. Essex, as they stiled him, and increased the jealousie of such men, whose interests were to observe him, that he preferred the occasion himself for a Separation; and which indeed from publick fame, begat private disputation amongst Civilians of the legality thereof, wherein those Lawyers are boundless.

This Case followed the heels of a former Divorce, Lady Rich divorced. fresh in memory, between the Lord Rich and his fair Lady, by mutual consent; but because Mountjoy Earl of Devonshire married her, whilest her Lord lived, the King was so much displeased, as it broke the Earl's heart; for his Majesty told him, that he had purchased a fair Wife with a foul Soul. But this of Essex was a different Example, when you seek to parallel them together.

And therefore we may with more charity to truth, not admit such hasty credit, as to believe, [that now the Kings delight was onely for the love of the Viscount (who is supposed to be in love with the Countess of Essex, Hist. Gr. Br. pag. 68. and upon no other score) to command the Bishops to sue out a Divorce from her Husband] which in truth was done with ample Reasons and legal Geremontes.

And because the Nullity gave freedom to either, and so the means of her after-marriage, with Rochester, the sad occasions of all the sequel mishaps; I have with some diligence laboured out the truth precisely and punctually, as it was acted and proceeded [Page] by Commission Delegative, Anno 1613 not easily now, otherwise to be brought to light, which the Historian passes over briefly, as unwilling to spend time, to set down truths, when it makes not for his turn;Hist. Gr. Brit. p. 69. for this Author had been Essex his Man, and turn'd away by his Lady.

Upon Petition of the Earl of Suffolk and his Daughter Frances, to the King.

That whereas his Daughter Frances Countess of Essex had been married many years unto Robert Earl of Essex, in hope of comfortable effects to them both; [...]. of Suffolk petitions for his daughters divorce. that contrariwise, by reason of certain latent and secret imperfections and impediments of the said Earl, disabling him in the rights of Marriage, and most unwillingly discovered to him by his Daughter, which longer by him to conceal, without remedy of Law and the practice of all Christian policy in like cases, might prove very prejudicial.

And therefore prays.

To commit the cause of Nullity of Matrimony, which she is forced to prosecute against the said Earl, to some grave and worthy persons, by Commission under the great Seal of England, as is us [...] ally, &c.

Which accordingly was granted unto four Bishops, Delegates in commis [...]ion. two Privy Counsell ours learned in the Law, and unto four other Civil Lawyers, with clause to proceed, cum omni qua poterint celeritate & expeditione summarie ac de plano sine strepitu, ac figur a judicii, sola rei & facti veritate inspecta & mera aequitate attenta.

And with this clause also, Quorum vos praefati Rev. Patrem Cant. Archiepiscopum, Reverend. Patrem Lond. Episcopum, & Iul. Caesar. Mil. aut duos vestrum, in ferenda sententia in [...]eresse volumus. But for some Exceptions concerning the Quorum, by the Commissioners in the words, Sententia esse not interesse; A second Commission was granted, and adjoyned two Bishops more, with this Quorum. Quorum ex vobis praefat. Reverend. Patrem George Cant. Archiepisc. Ioh. Lond. Episc. Tho. Wint. Episc. Lancelot Eliens. Episc. Richard. Covent & Lich. Episc. Ioh. Ross. Episcop. Iul. Caesar. Mil. Tho. Parry Mil. in ferenda Sententia, nos esse volumus.

Upon this the Countess procures Process against the Earl, to answer her in a Cause of Nullity of Matrimony.

The Earl appears before the Commissioners, by his Proctor, The Countesses Libell against her husband. and she gives in her Libell, viz.

That the Earl and the Lady six years since in January, Anno Domini 1606. were married, her age then thirteen, and he fourteen; and now she is two and twenty, and he three and twenty years old.

That for three years since the Marriage, and he then eighteen years old, they both did co-habit as married folk in one bed, naked, and alone, endeavouring to have carnal knowledg each of others body.

Notwithstanding the Earl neither did, nor could ever know her [Page] carnally, he being before and since possessed with perpetual incurable impediment and impotency, at least in respect of her.

That the Lady was and is apt and fit, without any defect, and is yet a Virgin, and carnally unknown by any man.

That the Earl hath confessed oftentimes to persons of great credit, and his nearest Friends, that he was never able carnally to know her, though he had often attempted and [...]sed his utmost endeavours.

And therefore prayeth the Commissioners upon due proof hereof, to proneunce for the invalidity and nullity of the Marriage.

The Earl by his Proctor denies the said Contents, Contestatio lit is negative.

His Answer is required by Oath, by second Process,Essex's answer. where in open Court his Oath was administred with so great care and effectual words, to minde him of all circumstance, as the like hath been seldom observed.

The Earl viva voce confesseth the Marriage, and circumstance, (as in the Libell) and were not absent above three Moneths, the one from the other, in any of the said three years.

That for one whole year of the three, he did attempt divers times carnally to know her; but the other two years he lay in bed with her nightly, but found no motion to copulation with her.

That in the first year she shewed willingness and readiness therito.

That he did never carnally know, but did not finde any impediment in her self, but was not able to penetrate or enjoy her.

And believeth, that before and after the Marriage, he found in himself ability to other women, and hath sometime felt motion that way.

But being asked, whether he found in himself a perpetual and incurable impediment towards her?

He answered, that in two or three years last he hath had no motion to her, and believes he never shall, nor that she is apt as other women: and that she is Virgo integra & incorrupta.

And confesseth, that he hath often before persons of credit confessed thus much.

Notwithstanding this his Oath, she produced sundry Witnesses of the Marriage, time, age, co-habitation at bed and board, as before in the Libell, &c.

So then, that period of time limited by the Civil and Canon Law, proved his co-habitation and co-dormition for consummation.

The next was, that notwithstanding she remained Virgo integra incorrupta; but because the Earl believed not, the Lady to be fit and apt for copulation; therefore the Council desired, Matronas aliquas probas & honestas side dignas, & in ea parte peritas dominas assignari ad inspiciendum corpus dictae dominae.

[Page]Whereupon it was decreed, that six Midwives of the best note, and ten other noble Matrons, fearing God, and mothers of children, out of which themselves would chuse two Midwives and three Matrons,She is to be insp [...]cted by Ladies. and out of which the Delegates did select five, ut sequitur.

Tunc Domini, viz. Arch. Ca [...]. Lond. Eliens. Covent. & Lich. Caesar, Parry, Dunn, Benet, Edwards, habita inter eos privata deliberatione ex numero matronarum praedict. elegerunt,

The Lady Martha Terwhite, wife of Sir Philip Terwhite Baronet.

Lady Alice Carew, wife of Sir Matthew Carew.

Lady Dalison, wife of Sir Roger. Et in supplement casu earum impedire.

The Lady Anne Waller, Widow.

Et ex obstetricum numero, &c.

Margaretam Mercer, & Christianam Chest.

Et assignarunt procuratorem dictae dominae Francessi ad sistendum cujusmodi inspectatrices, coram Reverend. Patre Episcop. Lond. Caesar, Dun, &c. Inter caeteros nominat. isto die, inter horas quintam & sextam post meridiem juramentum in hac parte subdituras, atque inspectione facta fidiliter relaturas, earum judicium, juxta earum scientiam & experientiam, &c. Coram dictis dominis delegatis, sic ut praefertur assignatis, quam cito fieri possit, ante horam quartam post meridiem diei Iovis prox. alioquin ad comparend. hoc in loco coram Commissariis dicto die Iovis inter hor as quartam & sextam post meridiem ejusdem diei, earum judicium in hac parte tunc relaturas, & interessendum diebus, hora & loco respective praedict. ad videndum inspectatrices praedictas, juramento in hac parte onerari; nec non quibuscunque aliis diebus hora & loco per dictos dominos Commissarios nominat. dictis inspectatricibus adreferend. earum Iudicium assignatum.

Accordingly between the hours of that day, were presented before the Delegates, the said Ladies, sworn, ad inquirend. & inspect.

1. Whether the Lady Frances were a woman apt and fit for carnal copulation, without any defect that might disable her to that purpose?

2. Whether she were a Virgin unknown carnally by any man?

Whereupon they went from the presence of the Commissioners into the next Room, where the Countess was, accompanied with the Council of both sides, into which Room was no entrance but at one door, whereat the Council presently came forth, and onely the Countess left with the Ladies, who after some convenient time returned their report under their hands. The Commissioners having first sequestred from their presence [Page] the Council on both sides, (who had been present in all these passages) and all other persons except the Register, that so the Ladies and Midwives might more freely deliver their secret Reasons, &c. though it was not fit to insert them into the Record.

And this is in sum their Relation.

1. That they believe the Lady fitted with abilities to have carnal copulation,

who repute

and apt to have children.

2. That she is a Virgin incorrupted.

her a Virgin,

And to corroborate all this, the Countess in open Court produced seven women of her consanguinity.and so do seven more [...]adies.

That in as much as the truth of all was best known to her self, she might by virtue of her Oath discover the same, and her Oath should be no farther regarded than as it was confirmed by the Oaths of those her Kinswomen.

The Law presuming, that such kindred should be best acquainted with the inward secrets of their Kinswoman.

In order, the Countess had an Oath administred to her, with all, with all the like grave admonition as before to the Earl. And so she affirmed:

That since the Earl was eighteen years old, for three years he and she had lain in bed, &c. as in her Libell.

And then the seven noble women, viz.

Katherine Countess of Suffolk, Frances Countess of Kildare, Elizabeth Lady Walden, Elizabeth Lady Knevet, Lady Katherine Thin, Mistris Katherine Fines, Mistris Dorothy Neal her Kinswomen, being charged to speak without partiality, they did all depose, that they believed the same was true.

1. And in particular, that post plenam pulvertatem utriusque, they both endeavoured copulation.

2. That notwithstanding, ability on her part, per inspectatrices, she remained a Virgin incorrupted.

3. That the Earl had judicially sworn, that he never had, nor could, nor should ever know her carnally.

The Law being this, that impotentia coeundi in viro howsoever, whether by natural defect, or accidental means, whether absolute towards all, or respective to his wife alone; if it precede Matrimony and be perpetual, as by Law is presumed, when by three years continuance, after the mans age of eighteen years, there having been nil ad copulam, the Marriage not consummated, and the Law allowing the said proofs, &c. was abundantly sufficient, to convince the said Earl of impotency.

Because Canonum statuta custodiri debent ab omnibus, & nemo in actionibus, vel Iudiciis Ecclesiasticis, suo sensu, sed corum authoritate duci debet.

The Judges Delegates therefore gave this Sentence.

[Page]Idcirco nos, &c. in dicta causa Iudices Delegati & Commissarii Christi nomine (primitus) invocato, & ipsum solum Deum, oculis nostris praeponentes & habentes, deque & cum consilio Iurisperitor. cum quibus in hac parte communicavimus;Sentence of Nullity, matureque deliberavimus, praefat. dominum comitem Essex, dictam dominam Franciscam, ob aliquod latens, & incurabile impedimentum perpetuum, praedictum contractum, & solemnizationem praecedens, citra solemnizationem & contractum praedictum nunquam carnaliter cognovisse, aut carnaliter candem cognoscere potuisse, aut posse, & eundem dominum comitem, quoad carnalem copulam cum eadem domina Francisca, exercend. omnino inhabilem & impotentem fuisse & esse:

Pronunciamus decernimus & declaramus praefatum praetensum Matrimonium, sic inter praedictum vir [...]m Robertum Devereux comitem Essex & praedict [...]m praenobilem foeminam Franciscam Howard, de facto contractum & solemnizatum, omniaque ex inde sequentia, ratione promissorum, omnino invalidum, ac nullum nulla fuisse, & esse, viribusque juris caruisse & carere debere, atque nullo & nullis, & invalido & invalidis, ad omnem juris effectum; etia [...] que pronunciamus decernimus & declaramus, dictum matrimonium praetensum, omniaque exinde sequentia cassamus annullamus & irritamus; memor atamque dominam Franciscam Howard, ab aliquo vinculo hujusmodi praetensi Matrimonii inter eam & dictum dominum Robertum comitem (ut praefatur) de facto contracto & solemnizato liberam & solutam fuisse & esse, & sic tam liberam & solutam insuper pronunciamus, decernimus & declaramus; eandemque dominam Franciscam ab eodem domino comite Essex, quoad vinculum matrimonii praetensi praedicti, omniaque exinde sequentia liberandam & divortiandam fore debere pronunciamus & sic liberamus & divortiamus, eosdem quo ad transitum ad alias nuptias conscientiis suis in domino relinquere, per hanc nostram sententiam definitam; sive hoc nostrum finale decretum, quam sive, quod fecimus & promulgamus in his scriptis.

And the Records extant, do mention the proceedings (you see) modest, legal, parallel with any former of like kinde, wherein the Civil Laws are boundless; and this strict form and manner had no room for corruption.

And the Commissioners that agreed to the Sentence were four Bishops,Signed by sufficient men. Winchester, Lichfield and Coventrey, Rochester, and Ely.

The Civilians were three Knights, Caesar, Parry, and Dunn.

And though thus sufficient, yet are they noted [for private men for the purpose, and that Kings will never want such ministers in corrupted times both in Church and State.]

The common people were offended with the Canons, and wisht, that Essex might have as many Women to aspect him for his sufficiency; That he might have justified himself upon [Page] others, or have had Physicians (by art) to certifie his natural impediment, or whether impedimentum maleficii (being accidental) praesumatur praecessisse, vel potius subsecutum fuisse matrimonium contractum & solemnizatum? Whether they ought post praeceptum Iudicis, to co-habit together, saltem per aliquod temporis spatium arbitrio Iudicis moderandum, for further trial.

Indeed the Arch-Bishop Abbot took upon him the quarrel,Arch-bishop Abbots Arguments against the Nullity. who (in truth) in the Civil Law was least able) his Doubts and Queries were dispersed, and got some credit with the Clergy, whilest the Civilians (with much civility, if not fear) of his authority amongst them) forbore to give him answer, till the King himself took the pains to pull him down.

The Bishops Arguments were six.

1. That all controversies concerning the Church are comprehended in the Scripture, and Marriage is there accounted sacred.

2. What Text doth warrant a Nullity after Marriage, Propter maleficium versus hanc? The Scripture, indeed, makes Nullity, Propter frigiditatem, Matth. 19. 12. Some born chaste, some made Eunuchs, some made so by grace.

3, 4. What Councils or Fathers, or stories either Greek or Latine, have ever mentioned Malesicium versus hanc, untill Hircanus, Rhemensis Episcopus, four hundred years after Christ?

5, 6. Essex is found defective, for whom we are bound to use two Remedies, Eternal and Temporal.

For the first, Non ejicietur, nisi per orationem & jejunium.

For the second, Corporeal Medicines. But the Earl hath had none of these.

The Answer.

To the first,Answered. It is a preposterous Puritan Argument without some better distinction or explanation: for, the Orthodox, consider all controversies in points of Faith and Salvation. Nullity of Marriage cannot be one, and therefore the consequence fails.

2. If the Scriptures want a Nullity, Propter frigiditatem, then all the means which may make him frigidus versus hanc, must be comprehended; for, why doth our Church condemn Marriage of a man with his sisters daughter? or of two sisters, but ut paritate rationis? for none of them are in terminis prohibited in Scripture, and so all the other unlawfull matches, for ascending or descending in points of Consanguinity, quia par est ratio.

The like is in this case; for although Christ spake onely to three sorts of Eunuchs, yet, Ratio est quia non potest esse copulatio inter Eunuchum & mulierem; and therefore Saint Paul tells us, It is not Conjugium sine copulatione.

I conclude therefore a paritate rationis, that Christ did comprehend under these three sorts, all inability, which doth perpetually [Page] tually hinder, copulationem versus hanc; whether natural or accidental. For what difference is there, between the cutting off the hand, and being made impotent thereof? Amputatio & Mutilatio membri, being the same in Civil Law.

It being sufficient unto moderate Christians to believe out of Gods word. That mariage is null, sine copulatione; and those words, quos Deus conjunxit, are never found in Scripture, where et erunt eis, doth not proceed, viz. And they two shall be made one flesh.

But however the impediment be, whether universal or versus hanc, or born so, or by violence, or by disease, or ineptitude, that is ever par ratio, he is Eunuch versus hanc & omnes alias. Seeing to him only she was married.

To the third and fourth; There may be something to this purpose, or aliquid analogum, with a paritate rationis.

Besides; it is an ill argument to say, that therefore it is not lawfull, because Fathers nor Council, do not mention it.

5. The same answer to the fifth; for till the four hundred years after Christ (perhaps) that devillish trick was not discovered, and we know, ex malis moribus bonae leges.

And this, in dispute, is only a question of Order and Policy; For the essential point of Matrimony, cannot be accomplished sine copula.

6. The Devils have power over the flesh, and to exempt us from the power of Witch-craft, was never maintained by any learned man; and why not of Protestants, as well as of Papists?

Remedies perhaps, have been used by themselves, but Non interest Repub. nec Eccles.

And so to satisfie his conscience, this pains was taken with the Arch-bishop, ut cum conversus fuerit, confirmet fratres suos.

In fine;The Countess marries Somersct. both Parties freed to their second choice, the Countess the fifth of December marries the Viscount, lately made Baron of Brandspick and Earl of Somerset, the tenth Earl; the first being made by Maud the Empress: And Overbury in the Tower hears of this jollity, and himself in durance, threatens Somerset (No, saies our Adversary) writes to him, humbly imploring. Another (such like) pens the Letter thus.

Right Noble and worthy Sir,

H. Gr. Br. p. 72 Hist. Na [...]. ch. 28.

YOur former accustomed favours, and also late promise concerning my present deliverance, hath caused me at this time, by these lines to solicite your Lordship, and to put you in remembrance of the same, not doubting that your honour is at all forgetful of me, [Page] but onely (by reason of my imprisonment) being possest of divers dis [...]ses [...] would for my bodies health and safety, tast of the felicity of the [...] air; In which cause, if your Lordship please to commiserate my present necessities and procure me my speedy deliverance, I shall not only stand much the more obliged to you, but also acknowlege you the preserver of my life.

Such stuff as this makes up the matter as they would make us believe, but in truth; he threatened Somerset with some discovery, which was construed to be secrets of Love, or State, or both. Not without monstrous defaming her honour, by Message and writing, [filthy base woman, they were best look to stand fast] which begat fury in her and subtilty in Somerset, least Overburies Malice, should break forth, to both their sufferings, and so trouble their whole fortunes.

To prevent mischief to the One,Overburie designed to be de [...]troyed. and continual defame to the other, combining with the rest. It was resolved by her to destroy him; which she first intended by assassination, and dealt with one Sir David Wood (an ill-looked red-bearded Scot) whom Overbury had prevented of a suit, valued 2000l. But his cowardice, not conscience, fearing to ingage, she and they plotted the impoisoining of him in prison, as the story intends to discover in particular.

This Spring seizes Northampton for death.Earl Northampton dies. He was brother unto the late Duke of Norfolk, who suffered for his Attempts of Marriage with the Queen of Scots (as before remembred) then a Prisoner here in England, which might be some motive for the King to consider the advance of this Man and that Family, which he did, by preferring the Dukes second Son to be Earl of Suffolk 1603. and by restoring the Dukes Gra [...]dchild Thomas Earl of Arundel 1604. as aforesaid, and by particular preferments of this Henry, who was more wedded to his book than to the Bed, for he dyed a Bachelour.

He was accompted wise and learned, a cunning States-man, and for all these abilities, out of the Kings great affection to Letters, especially being concentured in a Noble person, at his first accession hether,His preferments to honour. he the rather advanced him in succeeding Creations, as Baron of Marnhill, Earl of Northampton, then Privy Councellour, Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, Lord Privy Seal, and Knight of the Garter, and elected Chancelour of the University of Cambridge.

He had plentiful for his single Life, and to spare for his friends. In his expence, not over frugal, maintaining his Port the most remarkable (like the antient Nobility) in his family and dependents of any Lord then or since his time.

He assisted his Nephew the Earl of Suffolk, by his designning, [Page] and large contribution to that excellent Fabrick Awdleend.

He built that Noble Structure at Charing-Cross, Northamp. House, & presented it a New years gift to his Cosin German the [...] Walden, Suffolks eldest Son. And yet left his other Cosin the E. of Arundel, the rest of his estate, so to appear to the World his equal distribution to such even kindred.

He was pious, and gave good testimony thereof in his life, built that handsome Covent at Greenwich, and indued it with Revenue for ever, for maintenance of decayed Gentlemen Bachelours, a competent number; and for Widdows also considerable.

He died in April, Anno 1614. full of years and honour, and suspected more Catholick than some will think reasonable, though in the form of a Church Papist (as some lately do publish) and to be a Setter in the monstrous Murther of Sir Thomas Overbury, though the Lieutenant of the Tower Yelvis in his Examinations and Confessions cleered him, which suspition is since grounded upon the interpretation of his Familiar Epistles to the Earl of Somerset, and indeed but bruited since his death. And where no proofs precede, we may be sparing to not him so Noble a Person, with that, or any other Infamy.

About these times, the humours of young Gallants, not brooking the peaceable conditions of our Kingdomes, and neighbour Nations,Against Du [...]lls. took upon themselves to quarrel with each other, and to fight it out in Duels upon slight occasions, and very frequent; which induced his Majesty to publish a severe Edict against private Combates and Combatants, their Seconds, Accomplices, and Adherents, for prevention of those heavy events whereto worthy familics become obnoxious, by the odious and enormous impieties inevitably subsequent thereupon;

Intending by that time, that the most proper Remedies have qualified the distemper of il-disposed minds, and that audacious spirits have smarted for incompetent desires; the false colours and pretences of erring Custome, have both been counterpleaded and corrected by reforming severity. By that time, I say, that Passion hath been put into the right course of submitting to discretion and caution, hath wrought it self at leasure, into as constant a form and habit of conforming to obedience, as self-will took in former times to plant false principles; the greater part will easily discern, That there is greater reason to reprove those that offer Challenges of madness, than to tax those of Cowardice that abstain out of duty.

[Page]And therefore those that should conceive themselves to be behind in the least respect of point of honour should repair to the Marshalls Court, who were instructed and prepared as well for the cleansing of all green wounds, as the healing of old Ulcers that shall appear to them.

Hereupon occassion was soon given and taken in a Duel of Priest and Wright, for writing and carrying the challenge, and an information against them in Star Chamber, by a charge of Sir Francis Bacon, Atturney General, and though the persons were but mean, yet they served for example to the great; the Dog to be beaten before the Lion, the one a Barber Surgeon, the other a Butcher.

This eloquent Oratour divided his charge into four branches.

1. The nature and greatness of the Mischief.

2. The Causes and Remedies.

3. The Iustice of the Law of England, which (saies he) some think defective herein.

4. The capacity of this Court, where the Remedy is best to be found.

1. For the first, when Revenge is extorted out of the Magistrates hands into private men, presuming to give Laws to themselves; It may grow from quarrels to banding, so to trooping, then to tumult and commotion, from private persons to families and alliances, and so to national quarrel; and subject the State to inflamations and convulsions, and herein Offences of presumption are the greatest, and this to be done by the aurorae filii sons of the morning, young men full of hope and towardness.

2. The Causes no doubt, a false imagination of honour and credit; bewitching Duels, Species falsa, against Religion, Law and virtue. That men now adaies had lost the true Notion of fortitude and valor; the one, Fortitude, distinguishing the grounds of quarrels, whether they be just and worthy a mans life, being to be sacrificed to honourable services, good causes and Noble Adventures, Expence of blood is as the expence of money, not to be profuse in either, upon vain occasion.

For the Remedies. Four things may be effectual for repressing the depraved custome of Combates.

First, The State to abolish it: for then every particular person thinks himself thereby acquitted his reputation; when he sees it an insult against Sovereign power. Like unto the Edict of Charls the ninth of France against Duels, That the King himself took upon him the honour of all, that were grieved or interessed for not having performed the combate, when he shall [Page] see the rule of State dis-interest him of a vain and unnecessary hazard.

Secondly, This evil must not be cockered. The compounding of quarrels is grown so punctual by private Noblemen and Gentlemen, who is before hand, and wholly behind hand. It countenances Duels, as if therein somewhat of right.

The most prudent, and best Remedy may be learned out of the Kings Proclamation. The false conceated humour must be punished in the same kind, In eo quis rectissime plectitur in quo pe [...]cat, such men to be banished the Kings presence and excluded the Court for certain years, to be cast into that darkness, not to behold his Sovereigns face.

Lastly, We see the Root of this offence is stubborn, for it despiseth death the utmost of punishments, and therefore these men to be executed by Law without all remission. The severity of France had been more, where by a kind of Marshal Law established by the King, the party surviving was instantly hanged, their wounds though bleeding, least a natural death should prevent the example of Justice. Or, if not so to do, but with greater lenity, yet of no less efficacy, which is to punish by fines in Star Chamber the middle acts and proceedings, which tend to the Duel.

3. Now for the Law of England. It is excepted against in two points.

Not to difference between an infidious and foul murther, and killing upon fair terms, as they term it.

The other, Not providing sufficient punishment for contumely of words, as thely, and the like.

These novelties are thus answered. The Law of God makes no difference, but between Homicide voluntary and involuntary, which we term Misadventure, and for which there were Cities of Refuge.

Our Law hath a more subtil distinction. The Will inflamed, and the Will advised; Man-slaughter in heat, and Murther upon Malice or cold blood. The Romans had restrained this privilege of passion, but onely where the Husband took the Adulterer in the manner. Yet Cain inticed his Brother into the Field and slew him treacherously; but Lamech vaunted of his Murther, To kill a young man, and if it were but in his hurt. So as the difference is between Insidious and Presumpt [...]o [...]s Murther, these of Cain and Lamech.

Greece and Rome had not this practice of Duells. It is said, fas est & ab hoste doceri.

There was a Duel between two eminent persons of the Turks, and one slain; the Council of Bashaes reprehended the Other, How durst you undertake to fight one with the other? are there [Page] not Christians enow to kill? Did you not know, that whether of you were slain, the loss would be the great Seigniours?

Tis true, we find Combates before an Army amongst the Romans, which they called Pugna per provocationem; between Generals themselves, or by their license to others.

So David asked leave when he fought with Goliah; And Ioab when the Armies met, gave leave, Let the young Men play before us.

And of this kind was that famous example in the Warres of Naples, between the Spaniards and Italians, where Italians prevailed.

The second combate is a Iudicial Tryal of Right introduced by the Gothes, and the Northern Nations, and more antient in Spain.

But yet a wise Writer saies, Taliter pugnantes videntur tentare Deum, quia hoc volunt ut Deus ostendat & faciat Miraculum, ut justam causam habens Victor efficiatur, quod saepe [...]ontra accidit. Nay the French folly in this kind, had it in Toleration, never authorized by Law; but of late punished with severe rigour.

As for the supposed defect in our Law for Lies and fillips, words of denyal and flea bites, to murther a man; Solon's Answer satisfies, That he had not ordained Punishments for it, not imaging the world so phantastical to take it so highly.

The Civillians say, that an action of injury does not ly for it. Indeed Francis the first of France, gave the ly to the Emperour, and in a Solemn Assembly said, That he was no honest man that would bear the ly.

The Laws of England had onely these degrees of injury, Slander, Battery, Maime, and Death. But as for a fillip, Consalvo said, A Gentlemans honour should be De tela crassiore, of a strong warp.

Now for the power of this Court to censure; Presidents have been in the Minor: Whartons case Plt. where Acklam, Defendant, servant to Elleckars, was fined for carrying his Masters challenge but by Word of Mouth.

And it was concluded to prosecute in these cases against such,

As shall appoint the field though the sight be not acted,

Send challenge in writing or message.

Shall deliver either of them.

To accept or return them.

To be a second.

To depart beyond Seas to combat.

To revive a quarrel by s [...]andalous bruits or Pasquils.

Counsellers of Quarrellers.

And that a Man may in those cases be as well fur de se, as felo de se, if he steal out of the Realm to fight, he doth, Machinari contro Corona [...]

[Page]But let us remember Scotland. We have forewarned the Earl of Orkneys mis-behaviour in Scotland, which of late so increased as he was again sent for and committed. Having rioted most of his Estate,Rebellion in Orkney. the remainder was mortgaged to Sir Iohn Arnots, of whom the King purchases his Interest, by which means he might the better give relief to the distressed Tenants from oppression.

The Earl now in Dunbarton Castle, with a Noble a Day pension for his Maintenance, had information how his Estate with his Castles Kirkwall, Birsay, and other his Houses and Lands in the Isles were rendered to the Kings Sheriffs; He endeavouring first to escape, but not effecting, sends his base Son to get forces, and to expulse the Possessors.

He does so, with some loose people assaults Birsay, and takes it, wherein he puts a Garrison of thirty men, and hastens to Kirkwall, seizes that also.

This Insurrection comes to the Kings knowledge, and hastens Commission to the Earl of Caithness, Lieutenant of those bounds; who with his Canon recovers the Castles in 6 weeks, and those within made Prisoners. Robert Steward the Earls base son, and four more principal Actors, were arraigned at Edenburgh, conv [...]ct,The Earl convicted, and hanged.

The Earl as Accessary, came to Tryal, being indicted for causing his base son to surprize Kirkwall and Birsay, inciting the people to Rebellion, and detaining the Castles treasonably against the Kings forces.

He was allowed Prolocutours (Lawyers) of the best esteem, who deny the Libel (as they call it) but the confession of his base Son, and Others, with his missive Letters written to one Iohn Sharp, for detaining those Castles, and a charter of certain Lands assigned by him to one Patrick Haloro, and executed, for assisting the Rebels; the Assize of Iury, being his Peers, Earls and Lords found him guilty of Treason, and he presently executed at Edenburgh.

The end of Patrick Earl of Orkney, his descent. Son to Robert Stewart one of the base Sons of King Iames the fifth (for he had others) This Robert was at first Abbot of Holy-rood-house, for divers years. After the forfeiture of Hepburn Earl of Bothwell, and the obtaining those Isles, he exchanged the Abbacy with the Bishoprick of Orkney; and so became sole Lord of the County. Patrick succeeding to an elder Brother, and grown a Courtier, involved himself in great debts which inforced him the more tyrannous over the people, to recover his wants.

At Glasgow was apprehended Oglevy a Jesuite,Oglevy a Jesuit, his Examinations. lately come from Gratts, by command of his Superior in that College. He answered peremptory to the Commissioners questions, professing [Page] not to prejudice others by any Confession. Their torture to inforce him to impeach others, was to debar him sleep for some time, until he was forced falsely to accuse any body, which he, after repose, would deny again.

The King was displeased with such forms to men of his profession, and if no crime could be proved but his Calling, and saying Mass; they should banish him, not to return on pain of Death; but if his practice had been to induce the people to rebellion, and maintained the Popes power transcendent over Kings, and resused the Oath of Allegiance, they should leave him to the Law.

But with all they were to urge his Answer to these Questions.

1. Whether the Pope be Iudge in Spiritualibus over his Majesty, and whether in Temporalibus, if it be in Spiritualia?

2. Whether the Pope hath power to excommunicate Kings (such as are not of his Church) as his Majesty.

3. Whether he hath power to depose Kings after his excommunication, and in particular his Majesty.

4. Whether it be no Murther to kill the King so deposed?

5. Whether He hath power to assoil subjects from the Oath of their native Allegiance to his Majesty.

He answers in writing,

To the first Affirmative in Spiritualibus. But whether in Temporalibus he is not obliged to answer to any but a Iudge of Controversyes of Religion, the Pope, or one by his Authority.

To the second affirmative, and that all persons baptized are under the Popes power.

To the third, He will not declare but to a lawful Iudge of Religion.

To the rest, ut supra.

He could not be moved by threats, but rather railed at the Oath of Allegiance, as damnable and treasonable against God; and so came to Tryal of Life, but was told over night, That he was not to be tryed concerning his profession, but for his former Answers to the Questions, which he may recal and crave mercy: but this he utterly refused.

And so was impannell'd, grounded upon the Acts of Parliament, against such as declined the Kings authority, or maintained other Jurisdiction, and upon his former answers.

He protests, not to acknowledge the Iudges nor Iudgement Lawfull: for if it be Treason here, it should be so in all other Kingdoms, which is not. Your Acts of Parliament are made by partial men, and of Matter not subject to their forum, for which I will not give a fig. The King hath no Authority, but derivative from his Predecessors, who acknowledged the Popes Iurisdiction; if the King will be to [Page] me as they were to min [...], he shall be my King, if otherwise, I value him not. And for the reverence I do to you, bare-headed, It is ad redemptionem vexationis, not ad agnitionem Judicii.

That the Iury were either his Enemies or his Friends, if Enemies they could not sit upon his Tryal; if Friends, they ought to assist him at the Bar; That what he suffered was injurious, and not Iustice; he had not offended, nor would crave Mercy. My Commission (said he) was by command of my Superiour, and if I were abroad, I would return hether again, and repent only that I have not been so busie as I should, in that which you call Perverting of Subjects, and I call, Saving of souls; I do decline the Kings authority, and will do it still in matter of Religion, the most of your Ministers maintain it; and if they be wise will continue in that mind.

As for that Question, Whether the King being deposed by the Pope, may be lawfully killed? Doctors of the Church hold the Affirmative not improbably, and as it is not yet determined, so if it should be concluded, I will dy in the defence. And (now) to say, It were unlawful, I will not to save my life.

His insolent speech was shortned by the Jurors quick return, who found him guilty, and had Sentence of Treason, and to stop his rayling, was after Noon, the same day, hanged at Glasgow.

He was a desperate second Ravilliack, and ready in that devilish doctrine of deposing and disthroning Kings, which he urged the more (he said) as consonant to the Kirk Ministers tenents. And that nothing troubled him but to be taken away ere he had done that which all Scotland and England should not have prevented, and had it been performed, no torments would have been by him refused.

So then we see the cause of his Execution. For the King professed, Never to hang a Priest for his Religion.

The opening of the Spring gave opportunity to sundry families of England, Plantations in America. to prepare themselves for planting in America, Upon no great incouragement of profit, or pleasure, by any former Voyages of the English, into those parts; but people and trade increasing here, they would unburthen this State with forein adventures.

The Design was for New England a part of America, Hist. gr. Br. p. 75. in the Ocean Sea, opposite to that part of America, in the South Sea, which Sir Francis Drake discovered in his voyage about the world, and named it Nova Albion.

But he was never imployed thither, as a Discoverer or Planter upon this part of America, taking the coast from Cape Florida, in twenty degrees, (North Latitude) North-East-ward to Cape Brittain. Between the Degrees of Latitude, from 20. to [Page] 45. King Iames granted Letters Patents, being about fifteen hundred miles, but to follow it aboard near two thousand miles.

And all this Coast from Cape Florida of twenty Degrees to five and forty, was first discovered by Iohn Cabot, Cabot. with six sail of ships, who had his Patent from Henry 7. Anno 1442. about the time that Columbus discovered the middle part of America, for Ferdinand and Isabel of Spain, and is called the West-Indies.

The first Colony from England was with Sir Walter Ralegh, Virginia. assisted in company of Sir Ralph Lane, and Thomas Heriot, that learned Mathematician, Anno 1584. who in honour of Queen Elizabeth named it Virginia, leaving there sixteen men, which were brought home by Sir Francis Drake, in his return from his West-India Voyage a year after; and this part is contained from Florida to the Chesiopech Bay.

The next Northward is a part of Land to which Sir Iohn Popham Lord Chief Justice sent,New England. for Discovery and Trade, 1606. but no success returned, and since it is called New England.

Then the Land adjoyning Northward was discovered by Captain Gosnold, Elizabeths Isles. all that coast being studded with broken Lands, and called by him Elizabeths Isles.

Then you come to Cape Cod, and to the discovery of Captain Weymouth's Land, and large River, and so forward to other Plantations, sithence of the English, so far as Cape Britain.

Then to Nova Francia, Nova Francia. the Colonies of the French, which Land in truth they have ingrossed, as being elbo-room for all, and which ends at Cape Race; the Lands spreading from thence directly Northwards, and named New-found-land, untill you sail into the Frozen Sea, where Davis, Basin, and Hudson, made large Discoveries, many thousand miles.

But to our business, this year 1614. Captain Smith intended for New England, with two ships, not to plant, but to take Whales and other fish, and to trade for Furrs, and so returned.

And presently from Plymouth, he went out again, with one ship, and Michael Cooper with five from London, accompained with four more from Plymouth, partly to trade and plant.

And indeed these people for Planters were suspected notorious Schismaticks, Brownists, Anabaptists, Families of love, and the like, under such notions, so together, and here and there strewed over with a spice of Protestancy, but by the general name of Puritans, which term included good and bad in their distinct kindes, truly and ingenuously distinguished into the Puritan Knave, and the Knaves Puritan: but in truth, all of them (of the first rank especially) Enemies to the Hierarchy of our Protestant Profession in the Church of England.

And away they would go, for elbo-room to model a new Church-government, such as hereafter should happen; for God [Page] knows, they were so diversly affected, that as yet they could conclude of none, nor ever would agree to any.

It was not impossible also, but those Factions there might breed into extremes, and become hereafter Nurseries for all Non-conformants of Church or State, with some prejudice to this Government at home.

And therefore then, there was a restraint for the present onely, untill by examination of some of their Principals remaining behinde, a better account might be assured, concerning those that are sent before, for whose good behaviour there, these were responsible here, and so they had leave to go.

And in a word, at that time, and until these later days, most of the violent pretenders for Plantations, either Governors or Assistants, here, in their several Courts, were a company of cunning contrivers, who abused the honest Adventurers, and of long time came loss to them in all their returns.

The Kings bounty had stretched beyond the liberty of his Treasure,Baronets created. which he timely took up, and was free in rewarding merit by Honour of Knighthood, upon such whose Estates were not answerable in value to other Gentry, before whom they were to take place of precedency.Hist. gr. Br. p. 76. And therefore it was designed (twelve moneths since) by the late Treasurer Salisbury, to create a degree of Knight Baronets, to precede all Knight Bachelors, being the earnest suit of themselves,Court & Ch. King James, pag. 12. ninety persons in all of good Birth and Estates; and each of them (except two and twenty) were then Knight Batchelors: and this to my knowledg, for I copied the List of them, before it was presented to Salisbury: and as true, that his exception thereto was, that it would discontent the Gentry. To which themselves replied, that it would rather satisfie them, in advance of dignity before others, who now come behinde those meaner men, whom indeed the King was forced to dubb, for his Honour and some merits of theirs, having no other reward or money to spare, and therein not much too blame, to oblige them that way; and Salisbury dying, it was now established; the design having martial reference to Honour and Arms, the Prerogative of every Sovereign, as in former Presidents of all Christian Princes and States Monarchical and Republicks, especially upon distress of any Province or place, for support or defence thereof.

And herein, other Princes exceed in example, and never quarrelled by any; as in Germany, Spain, France, Italy, Venice, and must it now be a crime in this King, in the settlement of his Inheritance here, to take leave to advance the creation of one single Order? A new erect distinct Title, with those Privileges to them and their heirs for ever. Place before all Knights Bachelours and of the Bath, (and all Bannerets, but they are not in being) to be impleaded [Page] by addition Baronet, and the Title Sir, and their wives Lady, the King sh [...]ll not create any degree under the dignity of Baron that shalbe superiour or equal to them, no more to be made, but the full number of two hundred, untill some of these dy, but the younger sons of Viscounts and Barons (by Decree of the King and Council upon controversie) were adjudged to take place before them, and that their heirs males at one and twenty shall be knighted, and shall leave either in a Canton in the Coat of Arms, or in a Scutchion at their Election, the Arms of Ulster, Argent, a Hand Gules, their place in the Kings Armies to be in the gross, near about the Kings Standard, for defence thereof.

Nor was this done but in the like example or noble way, for each Baronet to maintain thirty Footmen for three years at eight pence per diem each Souldier in service of the Kings Forces, for the establishment of the Province of Ulster in Ireland, not as yet emptied of Rebells, which came unto one thousand nine hundred and five pounds a piece. And it was their own humble suit afterwards to compound the expence, at a certain value, and to put the charge in general upon the King: and I know he lost by the bargain, the Composition came but to ninety eight thousand five hundred and fifty pounds, and cost the King much more.

And for the honour of their degree and memory, it may not be amiss to insert in order of precedency in their Roll, threescore and eight of them being Knights already, and two and twenty Esquires.

Suff. Nicholas Bacon.

Lanc. Richard Mollin [...]ux.

Glam. Thomas Mansell.

Leic. George Sherley.

Glam. Io: Stradling.

Derb. Francis Leak.

Suss. Thomas Pelham.

Lanc. Richard Howton.

Wilt. Io: St: Iohn.

Linc. Nicholas Sanderson.

Suss. Io: Shelley.

Cistr. Io: Savage.

Essex Fr: Barington.

Leic. Henry Barks, Esq

Ebor. Will: Wentworth, Esq

Westm. Richard Musgrave.

Norf. Henry Hobard.

Cestr. George Booth.

Camb. Io: Peyton.

Suff. Lion: Talmage, Esq

Not. Iames Clifton.

Lanc. Thomas Gerard.

Staff. Walter Aston.

Norf. Ph: Knevet.

Essex Io: Wentworth.

Ebor. Henry Belaser.

Ebor. William Constable, Esq

War. Thomas Lee.

Rutl. Edward Nowell.

Hunt. Robert Cotton.

Cestr. Robert Chalmond, Esq

Devon. Edward Seymer, Esq

Lanc. Moyell Finch.

Oxon. Anthony Cope.

Linc. Thomas Mouson.

Linc. Thomas Vavisor.

Derb. Thomas Gresly, Esq

Gloc. Paul Tracy, Esq

Ebor. Henry Savile.

Derb. Henry Willoughby, Esq

North. Lewis Tresham, Esq

North. Thomas Brudenell, Esq

[Page]Linc. George St: Paul.

Linc. Philip Terwit.

Linc. Roger Dallison.

Linc. Edward Carr.

Linc. Edward Hussey.

Norf. Lestrange Mordant, Esq

Essex Thomas Bendish, Esq

Carm. Io: Wynn.

Gloc. William Throgmorten.

South. Richard Worsley.

Bedf. William Gostwick, Esq

War. Thomas Puckering, Esq

Camb. Nicholas Sands.

Ebor. Fr: Wortley.

Ebor. George Savile.

Derb. William Kneveton, Esq

Norf. Philip Woodhouse.

Oxon. William Pope.

Rutl. Iames Harington.

Staff. Richard Fleetwood, Esq

Oxon. Thomas Spencer, Esq

Lanc. Io: Tufton.

Camb. Samuel Peyton.

Norf. Ch: Morrison.

Kanc. Henry Baker.

Essex Roger Apl [...]ton, Esq

Kanc. William Sedley.

Kanc. William Twisden.

Kanc. Edward Hales.

Kanc. William Moynes.

Essex Thomas Mildmay, Esq

Essex William Maynard.

Buck. Henry Lea, Esq

Wilt. Edward Gorges.

Essex Harbottle Grimston.

War. Thomas Holt.

Som. Io: Por [...]man.

Linc. Io: Wray.

Berk. William Essex.

Ebor. Marmaduke Wivill.

Wilt. Fr: Englefield.

Staff. Io: Pessel, Esq

Essex William Aloff.

Wor. Edward Devereux.

Dev. Thomas Ridgeway.

Cornw. Renald Mohune.

Essex Paul Baning.

68 Knights.

22 Esquires.

90

These afterwards.

Doneld. Thomas Blaxton, Esq

Chester Rowland Egerton, Esq

Norf. Roger Townsend; Esq

It is well known that Queen Elizabeth left her Coffers empty,The Kings want of moneys, and the reason. and her Revenue not ample; for in Treasurer Burghley's times, the profit of the Kingdom (besides Wards and Dutchy of Lancaster). was one hundred eighty eight thousand, one hundred, ninety and seven pounds per annum; and the Payments one hundred, ten thousand six hundred and twelve pounds per annum. In which Payments these were constant per annum.

The Houshold forty thousand pounds Ordinary, and now increased necessarily, almost treble.

The Privy Parse two thousand pounds.

The Admiralty thirty thousand pounds.

1. For support, this King was to proportion his issues, with his Revenues, both certain and casual.

2. By abating or reforming the excess of his Houshold.

3. By raising moneys, and improving the Crown Revenues.

For the first, he could not well tell how to begin that Lesson, for coming in hither with an increment of expence, Himself, Wife and Children, and a large Train of old Servants to be new [Page] rewarded, the Marriage of his Daughter very lately, which expence in that amounted unto near an hundred thousand pounds, and her Atd-money came but to twenty thousand and five hundred pounds.Expence of the Princess Elizabeths marriage. And that we may see the Charge and Expence of this Marriage in particular, I shall set it down.

lib.

For the Palsgraves Diet at his standing house
6000

For his Diet at his Instalment of the Garter
4000

For Diet at his Marriage
2000

For Lodgings for his Servants
830

To the Wardrobe for Apparel for the Princess Eliz.

L. Hay Master of the Wardrobe. L. Harington.

6252

For furnishing her Chamber
3023

Apparel and Necessaries for her to my L. Harington
1829

Jewels and Apparel for her Servants
3914

To divers Merchants for Silks, &c.
995

The Lords Mask at her Marriage
400

For the Naval Fight of Fire-works on the Thames at her Marriage
4800

More Fire-works on the Thames at her Marriage
2880

To Sir Edward Cecil as Treasurer for her Journey from hence to Heidelbergh, and for her Purse
2000

For setling her Iointure, and charges to some of the Gentry to go thither and to take the Assurance
800

For her Transport to Flushing
5555

Totale
53294

Paid over to the Palsgraves Agent for her Portion
40000

The Total is ninety three thousand two hundred ninety and four pounds.93294. l.

These Expences put the King to consider of the best means of Recovery, so that several ways were proposed to make his Disbursments answerable to his In-comes,Propositions of Retrenchments of and the way was; the first work of Ordinary good Husbandry, and might well be expected from a Paterfamilias, yet it would not for the present, Rebus sic stantibus, become this King, whose fame and honour (as all other Sovereignties, so his in particular) stood more upon Reputation than profit; and therefore he (according to the magnificence of Royalty,Honoraries. left that consideration, and he had done reasonable well, if not too much, for satisfying his Train.

His second way was, to consider of his great expence of Houshold,Houshold. now enlarged into several Courts, King, Queen, Prince, and Nursery; and these being lookt into, he was forced (contrary to the royal and largest heart of any his Progenitors) to come to Retrenchment; and truly in this, he was advised to [Page] use the means of mean people, and others subordinate, Ingram and others.

And first he removed by Proclamation a number of useless persons of his own Nation, that unnecessarily depended upon the bounty of his Court, and returned them home again.

Then he proportioned to each Court their expence, particularly rated for personal Diet and Dependance, Livery and Wages, Charge and Salary.

And this was done without publick complaint of any pressure upon the people (as hath been usual heretofore to Parliaments, and by them redressed) but prudently considered, and so referred to the Council-table.

In ancient time the Houshold was regulated by Book-order, and continued so to Henry 8. when Cardinal Wolsey (for more honour to that Christmass King of immoderate expence) settled it, and so remained a ground-work to this present time, being now so corrupt, as that new ways were proposed, in effect to put down Tables, and to allow Attendance-money, as France does; or else by setting up the Hall again, to the best, first, and most magnificent Order, that so being spent in publick to the Kings honour, the secret waste of Chamber-diet, and purloining prevented; for out at the Court back-doors, most of the meaner houses at Westminster were maintained with food and firing, the stealth of under-chamberers.

We all know what excess was usual in our ancient Retinue and Servants with blue coats and badges, especially respecting the Garter of St: George, who were now ordered to lessen their number, and afterwards to fifty Gentlemen, and no more, to each Knight of that Order, heretofore an excessive number, to vie it out who should bring most.

And to reform himself from the excess of his royal heart in gifts and rewards,The King restrains his former bounties. he published Orders and Articles in print, in what manner his pleasure restrained his bounty, and what natures he was willing to grant. Having been liberal to the Scots, whom he brought with him, men of the greatest eminency at home, thereby to binde them here with Free-hold Lands, as also with English Tithes; for what held the great Gascoign Iean de Foix firm to the Crown of England, but his Earldom of Kendall here. A neglect in Queen Elizabeth, to draw the chief Nobles [...] into England by exchange, or gift of Lands to have [...] them Free-holders here: she might then have spared two [...] her Wars.

[...] indeed the Kings gifts in Land to the Scots, unthankfully [...] [...]ttingly they sold, conveying that Treasure into Scotland, [...] his great Design of uniting them here, became frustrate. [...] we finde, how many of them not so engaged, have turned [...] ersaries to his Posterity.

[Page] And I remember well, not a penny given then, freely to the Scots, but gave alarm to every part of Englands Discourse; Notes, Copies of all privy Seals, for money given, and so shewed then in Parliaments. Yet no noise of what the English had, though ten times more.

But his free hand having stretcht his purse-strings, there was a free Benevolence A Benevolence considered of, from such good Subjects as in hearty affection to their Sovereign, were willing to contribute, and did, the Lords and others, by which he might have experience how they could serve him, that served themselves so well, the building up of their own fortunes and factions, had been their diligent studies, and his service but the exercise of their leisures. And this Benevolence came but to fifty two thousand nine hundred and nine pounds out of their purses. Which yet madded the ill-minded men,Hist. gr. Br. p. 78. [Pillars to the Kingdomes Liberties] alwaies plotters to the Kingdomes Miseries. Who being ashamed to be out-done in honesty and honour, they justly drew upon themselves a Mark of Malignancy; and so needed not otherwise to be noted, [by giving in their names] as is pretended. And yet they would be medling, devising poor Arguments to pretend it, [against Subjects Liberties] though accustomed evermore by examples of all former Sovereigns.

But to tell our Historian how antient the custome of Benevolence hath been, ever since the Statute of 20 Henry 8. that united Wales and England together, and to send their Members to sit in Our Parliament, where a motion being made in the House of Commons for a Benevolence to be freely given to that King, an honest Knight (for a Welch County) made answer. Mr. Speaker, This word Benevolence is a pretty Word, but I understand it not; Yet sure it is something His Highness should have: If it be so, in Gods Name let him have it; the sooner the better; and so may deserve thanks, else it will not.

Thus it was then,Hist. gr. Br. p. 78. but now it is held to be [Against Law, Reason, and Religion] and Injustice and Impiety to be accepted.

And because his whole Reign was necessitous, and the want of money for him to be liberal, was his disease; I think fit to say somewhat here, in excuse to all the future ayms and ends which he took to get money, which answers the third way of Improvement.

There was much ado in Council to advance the Crown by several waies of Improvement. By grants in Parliament, wherein the King made some Tryal; so be it examined from former examples, whether or no, their bounties exceeded his Merits? Some advised him to fall upon Acts of Resumption, of Lands, Offices and Annuities, unadvisedly or profusely bestowed by [Page] his Predecessors, or himself, upon undeserving persons; which have been usually done by former Presidents of Princes, Ubi necessitas Regis cogit. But this his Noble heart disdained. Indeed it was wicked Counsel to work upon his Necessity, thereby to make him odious to his meritorious Servants and good Friends.

Did he ever do, as others, Henry 3. to his Subjects, of whom one saies, Quicquid habuerunt in Esculentis, et poculentis; Rusticorum, er [...]im, Equos, Bigas, vina, victualia ad libitum cepit.

He made tryal of Voluntary Lones, or Benevolence by Privy Scal, which was neither burdensome nor dishonourable, being so petit in the Purses of the ablest Subjects.

But Compulsion I know of none, unless you call the Star-Chamber S [...]ar-chamber. to the accompt, the Mulct and Fines of great Offenders, and perhaps adjudged by that Court to some value as the Crime deserved, which might be suspected in favour for Support of the Kings occasions. Yet you will find, when such happened, it was in the excess of unparallel'd crimes, not in other Courts of Iustice lyable to examination or punishment; which as it was in Terrorem populi, so now in these our later daies being suppressed in favour and liberty of the Nation, the wickedness of sinfull man takes freedome to offend in such horrid waies, that nought but some such extraordinary course of Justice can possibly reform.

Pawning of Iewels and Plate had been frequent by all former Princes,Pawn of Jewels,and that not in ordinary waies, Aurum & Iocalia faenetri sancti Edwardi Confessoris. Vasa aur [...]a, & diversa Iocalia.

Nay, Magnam Coronam Angliae. Yes, and Queen Elizabeth did it, and no more need, than He; but he did not.

To assign Customes, and customs. and pawn the next Subsidies to be granted, hath been a device to draw on supplies the sooner. Which he refused.

The Privy Seal Privy S [...]als. indeed he made use of, but very moderately in comparison of former Presidents, if you examine the Records and Rolls of willing Subjects bountiful assistance.

Compulsory Waies have been Presidents to necessitated Princes, exacted from Merchants-Strangers, or to be committed to Prison, and the English Subject, little better favoured.

What will you say of Henry 8.Mulct upon commodities. ten per centum of all Goods, Iewells, Utensils, and Land, extremely rated, per Sacramentum Suorum? In that rank may be remembred a Custome, called Liberalitas populi & Curialitas ex voluntate, nec de jure potest. But in the gathering by Commissioners, such threats were used, as was little better than the violent; and was customarily reduced [Page] down to Queen Mary; indeed Queen Elizabeth had a little better cunning way to cozen them the more returning their bounty back again, until they doubled the summ.

There is a Statute, To wait on the Kings service. To compell Subjects to attend the Kings Service, which was repealed by Queen Mary, and that again repealed by Parliament of this King, of which truly he made no other advantage, than to send half a dozen refractory Puritans, that troubled the State, of his errand into Ireland, and yet paid them good salary for their pains, which had been usuall heretofore in the like case, at their own cost.

Trading themselves; I could shew Presidents for this also,Ingross Trade, of other Princes engrossing trade of Commodities; as one did, with all the Wools at a long day, and a narrow price, and sold them over Seas with great gain. The like of Tyn, Corn; nay, bind all men to trade their staple to one certain place, and yet themselves to places of more advantage. And this was the glory of Queen Elizabeth stoop'd unto, and took occasion to trade in, when the gain was advantage, though but in StrongBeer.

Licensing Others also.and license. It was so ordinary heretofore, to raise monies by licensing Trade, non obstante, Statutes and customs, as that those grew to high Complaints; yet necessitated Kings, continued these non obstantes, non obstante. And this King found them in Grants, for certain years in being, and made no further example of them, unless transporting of a quantity of undrest White Cloths to the Earl of Cumberland, and some others, and that upon good reason of State too.

Raising rates of Merchandize. By raising rates. There will never want will in the Merchant to abuse each other, and gain to themselves: and therefore as all Princes have occasion, and the increase of commodities requiring, do raise the Rates; and this was done cum consensu Mercatorum; but of late the just Prerogative imposed it, where the Merchants gain might give way, if you could conceive it convenient, to their conscience, ever to acknowledge any gain sufficient.

Causa honesta sit, ut necessaria ratio facili tempus idoneum.

Letting Customes to farm. Customs to Farm. He did so; some murmured, grieving the Subject to pay Custome to the Subject; but do they serve the King for nought? infinite gain; It was then wished, that they should declare their benefit, and afterwards become Collectors for the King.

Queen Elizabeth, after she had raised Customer Smith from 140001. per annum to 420001. made him discount what he had got. This King did not do so; yet he did better, borrowed money, and never paid it them. Besides they were alwaies at hand to be squeazed, and what his Successor failed in that way [Page] (being perhaps surprized by death) the next long Parliament, did to purpose; ruined them all upon old Scores.

And was it not time for King Iames so to do? We all know by the succeed, such Contractors lost not by their Farm. By which we may be assured, how mightily trade increased by the wise Government of this King, and no Text more certain to prove it, than the Inter and Overloping of Merchants to get in to be Farmers; so mighty was their gain, and so secret this their trade, as (but by their Pride, profuse and stately comportment since, could never otherwise have been imagined.

Liberties and Penalties; there have been Kings that have proclamed, Quod omnes Chartae irritae forent, nisi posteriori sigillo roborentur. Nay, Qui suis volebant gaudere, innovarent chartas suas de novo; and this was done by Commissioners, or by quo warranto against all.

And for penal Laws, though I know, that many Projectors advised, yet former examples of this kind have evermore been fatall to those of the Quorum. But this King declined it, at all.

Selling Offices had been done formerly,Sale of Offices, not a King scaped it; to sell great Offices of the Crown and State, for years, for life, under the Kings hands and seals. They lodge in the Record thus, Chancelour, Chief Iustice, all Keepers of Records, Clerks of Assize and Peace, Masters of Game and Parks, and what else of profit or repute.

In France it is common, not one scapes, and in Spain as usual, and defended as lawful; and there are some, that have prescribed them amongst the best Rules of reigning Sovereignty, both Ecclesiastical and Temporal. It may be, that Favorites and Courtiers, made bold with their interests in their Master to receive their Rewards; But his own hands were ever closed from such corruption.

Sale of Honours; and Honors. It was the antient Power, and that legal, to call landed men to Knight-hood or fine; which he did, by favour and grace which he gave, truly I believe he was no niggard in them too. But indeed, there being no Chivalry, or Deeds of Arms in this time of peace to make men merit honours, those that had it (favourites excepted) I rank in desert, and so of due reward) To others I confess, they paid for it, and they were those off-hand Lords as were made EarlsEarls. together, that paid eight thousand pound a piece, and the pride of their hearts never bogled at the purity of the Project, but swallowed down the Corruption, without check of Conscience; and yet this I can tell, Some of them, set their Sons to beg again, part of it, for their private expence.

[Page] The Baronets were created upon a better score, and both these without any plot of State, as was feigned, and the designs upon the Earl of Salisbury for the former, and upon Buckingham for the later;Baronets. when in truth Pride and Ambition made the project their own. And in Gods name let such pay the price thereof. And I know, as honest and discret as our later times can boast of, molded other such designs for degrees of honor, to be hereditary in tail, as Under-degrees to those already in use, which yet the King for that present declined.

Coyn and Bullion. By Coin and Bullion. All men know, that Coin and Bullion in any State admit great wisdome in the mannagement, and as many overtures were now offered, as could stand with Justice or Customary Presidents. It was much urged to abate money, which was never used by any, but as a last shift, full of dishonor, as in Bankrupts, and a certain inconvenience to all Revenues of rents, and so to the King in that particular, as the greatest land-Lord, and so his disadvantage; which he declined. Moneys being esteemed quantum in Massa, not altogether per sculptam; and so hold esteem by their true value. Queen Elizabeth held it up from abasement, which her great potent Enemy Spain could not do.

Then was advised Cambium Regis, Exchange. an office antient, untill of late the Goldsmiths have ingrossed it. Some thoughts there were to make the Exitus exceed the introitus in Traffick, that the unnecessary, nay useless commodities brought in (in old time accompted Wines, Spices, Silks, and fine Linnen) the Manufactures of out-lands, and sold to us to a great value, even in Babies and Rattles, being the sad occasion then, the great want of Bullion, not sufficient in Specie to pay the Lender in principal. At last it was concluded to get advantage in the Coinage, either simple Metal or Mixt, Coinage. by which we see, that all Monarchs have, are, argento, & auro, and so was coined only Farthings, least other stamp of more value should clog the Kingdom, and a proportion was (together) coined, and do what this State could,Farthings. was in few years counterfeited by our neighbour Hollanders, and many Firkins filled by them, that the Farthing Office, was not able to rechange, upon the rebate for silver, which yet the King continued till these late times called in. Examine the inconvenience of Leaden and Copper Tokens, as great a benefit now to Retaylors, then formerly to the State; but with much more inconvenience to the Nation, being only utterable and current to each Retaylor, of his own Mint and Mark.

He was forced to adventure upon the use of Parliaments, By Parliaments. and to being with money, but not to build long upon their discusses, whereby came that saying in common, as of no other Design, Subsidies granted, Parliament ended, and therein the disadvantages [Page] he found; might well distinguish him, and their less frequent calling from his Predecessor, and her often invitation, and indeed discourage any Prince, that should next succeed her.

The Disposition and Spirit of the times considered were not alike with him. Her people ingenuous, and un-inquisitive, wrapped in innocence and humble obedience. But in his time, their passions and disaffections had gotten loose Reins, the snaffle in their teeth, contesting and capitulating; Reasons of her actings were her own Will; for then she having just cause, to complain of oppressions (as they did) they only conveyed them to her notice, and left the time and order of redress to her Princely discretion. And yet when it was not altogether concerning them, she would bid them meddle to amend their own Manners; Nor were her Messengers choaked, by any reproach, that came of such errands. In his time, so much degenerate from the purity of the former, under pretence of reforming and freedom, that their very inquiry extended to the privacy of the King himself.

Nusquam Libert as gratior extat, quam sub Rege pio.

Afflicting themselves to search for mischiefs, and being found to scandallize the State with them.

How these were nourished and afterwards fomented, the revolution of time hath made obvious to all men, and saves me the labour to set down the particulars.

It was no novelty then to applaud the former times, and to vilifie the present, for indeed her fame carried it current in a long continuance, to have lived and dyed Royally and Victoriously, without the disquiet of the peoples affections; and being but a Sojourner in the World in respect of her Maiden-hood, might be, and was a blessing to her own times: the impression of her good Goverment, besides her happy memory is not without some effect, which doth survive her; But this K blessed already with Royal issue, and whose fruitful Bed promised increase, It was more proper and agreeable with him to be studious, not onely in the Transitory part of good Government, but in those Acts, which are in their nature permanent and perpetual to his posterity, rather to increase, than diminish the Advantages of Soveraignty, which he aimed at, and for his part and time did perform, but tis a tender subject to discuss. I have done.

Yet I may add a truth. That all the force and power of his Progenitours, and all their merits and policies to boot (for more then an age before her) could never borrow so much credit upon their Privy Seals, as she did during her time, and left them [Page] all for this King to discharge, great and vast sums. Which shews; that Necessities put her upon that piece of State, when neither her Exchequer could afford relief, nor the urgency of her affairs indure the delaies of Parliaments assistance. For in truth, she had strained likewise from her people in that way of Subsidies, more then ever any Prince (I will not say many) that were before her.

She had the way to do it, by complaisance of a Princess; and he a King, not affecting that Course, failed of such effects.

For he was by nature more reserved than popular, and had his virtues fitter for estimation then Love, and did like a King; his soul being planted higher, overshot such matter, as lay level to anothers eye.

And so (as I have said) some of these ways, to get mony, was set a foot, this year 1614. and upon several occasions in his reign after proposed, but not effected.

In those times of Trade the Merchant-Adventurer usually transported Our English Cloths, Merchants made friends. white, undress'd and undy'd, and the Dutch had gotten the Art by the end, fitted and stretcht them by their Knavery, and so returned them to us at high rates; of this the Cloth-worker of London complains, which was soon remedied by Proclamation, forbidding the transport; and to countenance that Corporation, the King was feasted in their Hall, and made free of their Company, the rather because their Cote Arms, the Thistle, is the Scots Embleme. And over went our Cloaths accordingly, dyed and drest, which the Hollanders forbid to be bought by them; and therefore dealt with our Fell-mongers, and got over Our Woolls, and the Mystery of making Cloth.

Hereupon we proclame and forbid the transport of our wools. The Quarrel between those two Corporations, and their respective gain is by the Merchant Adventurers complained of, and for mittigation of their Mischief, several warrants for some thousands of Cloths were sparingly licensed by wisdome of State, to be sent over, and so evenly moderating the mystery of Merchants that cozen each other; and at their great Feast likewise the Prince was made free.

The King of Denmark makes a second visit to his Sister the Queen for fourteen daies,King of Denmarks second Arrival. upon no business of State, onely his affections to her, and jollity to himself, with a Train of no more than half a hundred persons of honour, and Noblesse, of his own breeding to the Dutch Diet and Drink, to which he was too much inclined and oft-times had his load; for we were not wanting of our boon-Companions, that waited on him for that purpose.

[Page] The Earl of Suffolk succeeding Salisbury in the Treasurership yielded his Office of Lord Chamberlain of the Kings Houshold to his Son in Law Somerset, as aforesaid, and he the Place of Secretary unto Sir Ralph Winwood, lately returned from the Netherlands, where he had been Ambassadour Lieger of a long time.

The Summers Progress returns the King to London, where had been some muttering of Overbury's deathOverburies death discovered. in the Tower, discovered beyond the Seas by the Apothecary's Boy that impoysoned the Glyster, and having his Reward was sent out of the way to Flushing, where he told the Tale to Trimball the Kings Agent there, by whom it came to Winwood's knowledg, and so to the King, and by degrees to particular Examinations, Confessions and Executions of all these, Weston an Apothecary, Mistris Turner a Doctor of Physick's widow, Sir Iervis Yelvis Lieutenant of the Tower, and Franklin, all accessaries.

But Weston being the principal actor, it was therefore his turn first to come to the Bar, at the Hinstons Court in Guild-hall, where beyond Judg Cook's expectation the man stood mute, notwithstanding all allurements and threats that could be used, and so was returned to Prison; Cook informs the King, that unless the principal be convict, the accessaries could not be tried; but by continual cunning, and some fair promises of pardon, Weston put himself upon his Countrey and was cast, condemned and hanged: Cook not content with that, gets knowledg under-hand that Serjeant Yelverton an obliged Servant to the House of Howards, had advised this Counsel for Weston, not to betray any parties. And this Tale was told by Sir Robert Cook from his fathers confession.

After all comes Somerset Somersets arreignment. and his Countess, and both condemned: some that were then at their Trial, and not partial, conceived in conscience, he might have been spared that Sentence, and as himself says to the King, That he fell rather for want of well defending, than by force of proofs; for I so far (says he) for sook my self and my cause, as that I might be more condemned for that, than for the matter.

And because it was a story of evil fame, near and far off, I shall put it to the test, in a brief Narratory, being pleaded before the Lord Elsmore, Chancellour and High Steward for the Day, and most of the Peers at Westminster Hall, May 1616. in this manner.

A Peer of the Land hath this Privilege upon Treason or Felony, The manner of arreigning Peers of this Realm. indicted, to be tried by his Peers: the King by Letters Patents assigns some sage Lord of the Parliament to be High Steward of England, for that Day of his Arreignment, who before that time makes Precept to his Serjeant at Arms, to [Page] warn to appear before him a certain number of Lords of the Parliament, twelve at the least upon that Day at Westminster. At which time the High Steward shall sit under the Cloath of State, and causeth his Commission to be read, the same Serjeant returns his Precept, and calls the Lords, who appearing by name, and set, the Lieutenant of the Tower is called, and brings his Prisoner into the Court to the Bar; the High Steward then declares to the People the cause, why the King hath assembled those Lords and the Prisoner, and perswades him to answer without fear freely, and commands the Clerk of the Crown to reade the Indictment unto him, and to ask him if he be guilty or not? to which he usually answers, Not guilty; and to be tried by God and his Peers. Then the Kings Attorney and Serjeants at Law give Evidence against him; whereto, when he hath given answer, the Lieutenant of the Tower is commanded to return with the Prisoner from the Bar, whilest the Lords do secretly confer in the Court together, and then the Lords rise out of their places, and consult among themselves, and what they affirm, shall be done upon their Honour without Oath.

And being so agreed, (or the greatest number) they return and take their places again in Court; and the High Steward demands of the youngest Lord first, if he that is arreigned be guilty or not? and so the next in order, and the rest, each one, answering, I or No. Then the Prisoner is sent for to the Bar, to whom the High Steward recites the Verdict of the Peers, and doth give Iudgment accordingly, Stanford Pleas del Coronae, lib. 3. Poult. 188.

The antiquity of this kinde of Trial by their opinion is grounded from Magna Charta, but others take it to be more ancient, though there inserted Henry 3. but was brought in by the Conquerour, being answerable to the Norman and French Laws, and agreeable with the Customes Feudal, where almost all controversies arising between the Sovereign and his Vassals, are tried per judicium parvum suorum.

And if a Peer upon his Arreignment of Treason do stand mute, Iudgment shall be given upon his Indictment, and yet shall not be pressed to death, but saves the forfeiture of his Lands, Statut. Westm. Edw. 4. Dier 205. But if upon Indictment of Felony, he may be mute.

The reason of Magna Charta aforesaid, is there expressed, where he is indicted at the Kings Suit of Treason or Felony, the words being, (Nec super eum ibimus, we will not pass or sit in judgment upon him, but by his Peers) but if an Appeal of Murther, or other Felony, be sued by any common person against a Peer; he shall be tried by common persons, and not by Peers, Stan. Pleas, lib. 3. Brook Trial, 142. But yet this Privilege hath some restraint.

[Page] For an Arch-bishop or Bishop, Anno 1616. though Lords of Parliament, in such cases shall be tried by a Iury of Knights, and other substantial persons, upon their Oaths, because Ecclesiasticks cannot pass in like cases upon Trial of other Peers; for they are forbidden by the Common and Ecclesiastick Laws, to be Iudges of Life and Death.

You see the great regard the Law hath to the word of a Peer, (heretofore) upon his honour, and yet how many ordinarily break their Oaths in common?

And thus premised, we come to the case of Somerset and his Countess.

First,The Case pleaded. therefore Sir Thomas Overbury for a time was known to have great interest and strait friendship with the Earl of Somerset, both in his meaner fortunes, and after; in so much, that he was in a kinde of oracle of direction unto him, and if you will believe his own vaunt, (being indeed of an insolent and Thrasonical disposition) he took upon him, that the fortunes, reputation and understanding of this Gentleman (who is well known to have an able Teacher) proceeded from his company and counsel: and this friendship rested not onely in conversation and business at Court, but likewise in communication of business of State; for my Lord of Somerset exercising at that time, by his Majesties special favour and trust, the Office of Secretary, did not forbear to acquaint Overbury with the Kings Packets and Dispatches from all parts of Spain, France, and the Low-countreys; and this not by glympses, or now and then rounding in the ear for a favour, but in a settled manner: Packets were sent, sometimes opened by my Lord, sometimes unbrokened, unto Overbury, who perused them, copied them, registred them, made Table-talk of them, as he thought good: so, the time was, when Overbury knew more of the secrets of State, than the Council-table did, nay, they were grown to such inwardness, as they made a play of all the world besides themselves, so as they had cyphers and Iurgons for the King and Queen, and great men of the Realm; things seldom used, but either by Princes or their confederates, or at the Court, or at the least by such, as practice and work against, or (at least) upon Princes.

But as it is a Principle in Nature, that the best things are in their corruption the worst, and the sweetest Wine makes the sowrest Vineger, so it fell out with them, that this excess, as I may say of friendship, ended in mortal hatred, on my Lord of Somerset's part.

It hath been said, that Frost and Fraud ends foul; and I may add a third, and that is the frien [...]ship of ill men, which is truly said to be conspiracy, and not friendship; for it happened, that the Earl of Somerset fell into an unlawfull love, towards that unfortunate [Page] Lady the Countess of Essex, and to proceed to a Marriage with her; this Marriage and purpose did Overbury mainly impugn, under pretence to do the true part of a Friend, for that he accounted her an unworthy woman; but the truth is, Overbury, (who (to speak plainly) had little that was solid for Religion or moral virtue, but was wholly possest with ambition and vain-glory) was loath to have any partners in the favour of my Lord of Somerset▪ and especially not any of the House of Howards, against whom he had professed hatred and opposition.

And that this is no sinister construction, will appear, when you shall hear, that Overbury made his brags, that he had won him the love of the Lady by his Letters and industry; so far was he from cases of conscience in this point.

And certainly, howsoever the tragical misery of that poor Gentleman Overbury, might somewhat obliterate his faults, yet because we are not upon point of civility, but to discover the face of Truth, for that it is material to the true understanding of the state of this cause, Overbury was naught and corrupt: in his commendation the Ballads must be mended for that point, which paint him out other, and partiality must be blamed, which now a days favour him, in malice to the memory of the ministers of these Times.

But to proceed, when Overbury saw that he was like to be dispossessed of my Lords grace, which he had possessed so long, and by whose greatness he had promised himself to do wonders; and being a man of an unbounded and impudent spirit, he began, not onely to disswade, but to deter him, from the love of that Lady; and finding him fixed, thought to finde a strong Remedy; and supposing that he had my Lord's head under his Girdle, in respect of communication of secrets of State, (as he calls them himself) secrets of Nature, and therefore dealt violently with him to make him desist, with menaces of discovery, and the like: hereupon grew two streams of hatred upon Overbury; the one from the Lady, in respect that he crossed her love, and abused her Name, (which are Furies in women) the other of a more deep nature, from my Lord of Somerset himself, who was afraid of Overbury's nature; and if he did break from him and fly out, he would winde into him, and trouble his whole fortunes; so as certainly it was resolved that Overbury must dy.

That was too weak, and they were so far from giving way to it, as they crossed it; there rested but two ways of quarrel, Assault and Poyson.

For that of Assault, after some proposition and attempt they passed from it, as a thing too open and subject to more variety of shame.

[Page] That of Poyson likewise was an hazardous thing, and subject to many preventions and caution, especially to such a working and jealous brain as Overbury had, except he was first in their hands; therefore the way was, first to get him sent over Seas, or into a Trap, and lay him up, and then they could not miss the mark; and therefore in execution of this Plot, it was concluded, that his pride should be designed to some honourable imployment in forein parts, and should under-hand by himself my Lord of Somerset be encouraged to refuse it, and so upon contempt he should be laid Prisoner in the Tower, and then they thought he should be close, and Death should be his Bail.

Yet were they not at their end, for they considered, that if there were not a fit Lieutenant of the Tower for that purpose, and likewise a fit Under-keeper of Overbury;

First, they should meet with many impediments in the giving and exhibiting of the Poyson.

Secondly, they should be exposed to note and observation, that might discover them.

And thirdly, Overbury in the mean time might write clamorous and furious Letters to his Friends, and so all might be disappointed.

And therefore the next Link of the Chain was, to displace the then Lieutenant Wade, and to place Yelvis, a principal abetter in the impoysonment; to displace Carew, that was under-keeper in Wade's time, and to place Weston that was the Actor in the impoysonment.

And this was done in such a while, that it may appear to be done, as it were in a breath.

Then when they had this poor Gentleman in the Tower, where he could not escape nor stir; where he could not feed, but by their hands; where he could not speak, or write, but through their trunks; then was the time, to act the last Day of his Tragedy.

Then must Franklin the Purveyor of the Poyson, in May 1613. procure five, six, seven several Poysons, to be sure to hit his complexion; then must Mistris Turner the lay-mistris of the Poysons, advise, what works at present, and what at distance. Then must Weston be the Tormentor, and chace him with Poyson, after Poyson, Poyson in salt meats, Poyson in sweet meats, Poyson in Medicines and Vomits, untill at last his body was almost come by use of Poysons to the state of Mithridates body, by the use of Treacle and preservatives, that the force of the Poysons was blunted upon him; Weston confessing, That when he was child for not dispatching, that he had given him enough to poyson twenty men.

[Page] And because all this asked time, impoysoning from March 9. to September 14. courses were taken by Somerset both to divert all the true means of Overbury's delivery, and to entertain him with continual Letters, partly with hopes and protestations, for his delivery, and partly with other fables and negotiations, somewhat like some kinde of persons, which keep in a Tale of fortune-telling, when they have a fellonious intent to pick their Pockets and Purses. Untill at last, they hastened his destruction by an impoysoned Glyster, which wrought into his intrails, and soon dispatch him. And this is the Narration of this Art, which I have summarily recited.

Then comes his Countess The Countess arreigned, to her Trial, guilty of too much contrivance and practice, though in Murder it be crime enough; yet she confessed, that which could not be proved; and at her Trial, she seemed drown'd in a deluge of grief, being therein beholden to Nature, that she could vent her self in tears; seeing that sorrow which cannot bleed in the eys does often festor in the heart, and so it appeared in her excess; women can hardly do any thing without over-doing; feminine passions must either not be full, or overflow: and indeed, she could not utter one word in her own defence, which begat relenting, even in the Council that pleaded against her, who otherwise take pride to force Arguments, making their Tongues their Ware, and Eloquence their Trade. But her sorrowfull silence needed the less Rhetorick in them, to urge her guilt; or in her Judges, to consult the weight of her crime.

These considerations moved the Lord Steward and Peers joyntly,and both of them condemned, reprieved, and to move his Majesty for mercy, and for the present procured their Reprieve, back to the Tower; but indeed, she was dead whilest living, being almost drown'd in despair, to work out her Repen [...]ance, for which cause principally her life and his were enlarged, as conceiving it the worst of Iustice to kill both body and soul; and after long imprisonment and true and hearty penance nine or ten years together, and no doubt Repentance also, they had liberty out of the Tower in Ianuary 1621. and confined to the Country, after pardoned. and at last their Pardons were procured, which in [...]uth, notwithstanding her great Family and deserving Friends, was to my knowledg got but by inches, four moneths before the Kings death, which was Anno 1624.

But in the whole Execution, where so many suffered, let the Prefacer to the Pamphlet of Fables, The Court and Character of King Iames, See the Preface, Court and Charact. King James. pick out a greater President in any History more remarkable for exquisite justice, than this of the King; wherein by the way, he may be allowed his own even Conscience for justice and mercy both, which no doubt hath found acceptance at God his Tribunal in his behalf; and his Posterity in due time by our [Page] Saviours merit shall be gathered together in the mystery of man's Redemption.

And for the other Historian, Hist. Gr. Brit. p. 83. let his memory be blamed for recounting so many untruths, and yet hypocritically closes with this Gloss, [Pardon (says he) the sharpness of these expressions, for they are for the glory of God.]

I could say more in this and other unfortunate stories of backward times, but I delight not ambitious pains in an useless description of miseries; I had rather shew you what Somerset, could say for himself, concerning his Land, much more in doubt for his life, it being a piece of charity to the distressed, and to the memory of the deceased: I shall not therefore conceal it, and the length thereof.

May it please your Majesty,

BY this Gentleman your Majesties Lieutenant, I understand of some halt you made,Somerset's Letter to the King. and the cause of it, at such time as he offered to your Majesty my Letters; but soon after, your Majesty could resolve your self, and behold me nothing so diffident of you, but in humble language petitioning your favour;Cabala, p. 1. for I am in hope, that my condition is not capable of so much more misery, as I need make my passage to you, by such way of intercession.

This which follows after, I offer your Majesty, though not as to your self, for upon less motive you can finde favour for me.

Now I need onely move, not plead, before your Majesty, as my case doth stand; for what I seek to have done, follows, upon what you have already done, as a consequence and succeeding growth of your own act.

But to the effect, that your Majesty may see, that there is enough to answer those, (if any such there be) as do go about to pervert the exercise of your Power, and to turn it from its own clear excellency, for to minister unto their passions. I have presumed to this end to awake your Majesties own conceit, upon this subject, which can gather to it self better and more able defences in my behalf upon this view; for though the Acts of your Mercy, which are not communicable, nor the causes of them with others, as derived from those sec [...] motives, which are onely sensible and privy to your own heart, and admit of no search or discovery, to any general satisfaction; and that under this protection, I might guard my particular sufficiently; yet, my case needs not hide it self, but attend the dispute with any, that would put upon it a monstrous and heavy shape; though that I must acknowledg, that both Life and Estate are forfeited to you, by Law, yet so forfeited, that the same Law gives you the same power to preserve as it doth to punish; whereby your Majesties higher Prerogative doth not wrestle with it, nor do you infringe those grounds, by which you have ever [Page] governed; so as the resistance is not great, that your Majesty hath for to give Life, and which is less in the gift of Estate; for that, the Law casts wholly upon your self, and yields it as fit matter, for exercise of your goodness. Once it was your Majesties gift to me, so it may be better not taken, than a second time given; for it is common to all men, for to avoid to take that, which hath been once their own. And I may say farther, that Law hath not been so severe, upon the ruine of innocent posterity, nor yet cancelled, nor cut off the merits of Ancestors, before the politick hand of State had contrived it into these several forms, as fitted to their ends and government.

To this I may add, that that whereupon I was judged, even the crime it self, might have been none, if your Majesties hand had not once touched upon it, by which, all access unto your favour was quite taken from me. Yet as it did at length appear, I fell rather for want of well defending, than by the violence or force of any proofs; for I so far for sook my self and my cause, as that it may be a question, whether I was more condemned for that, or for the matter it self, which was the subject of that days controversie.

Then thus far, nothing hath appeared wherein your Majesty hath extended for me your power, beyond the reasonable bound, neither doth any thing stand so in the way of your future proceedings, but rather make easie your Majesties favour for my relief.

What may then be the cause that malice can pitch upon, wherefore your Majesty should not proceed to accomplish your own work? Aspersions are taken away by your Majesties letting me loose, to the utmost power of Law, with the lives of so many offenders, which yieldeth the world subjects of sorrow, rather than appetite to more bloud; but truth and innocency protect themselves in poor men, much more in Kings. Neither ever was there such aspersion, (God knows) in any possibility, towards your Majesty; but among those, who would create those pretences, to mislead your Majesty, and thereby make me miserable. If not this (whereof the virtue and use was in the former time and now determined) there is not any but your pleasure.

It is true, I am forfeited to your Majesty, but not against you, by any treasonable or unfaithfull act; besides, there is to be yielded a distinction of men, as in faults; in which I am of both, under the nearest degrees of exception.

Yet your Majesty hath pardoned Life and Estate to Traitors, and to strangers sometimes the one, sometimes the other; nay, to some concerned in this business, wherein I suffer; you have pardoned more unto them than I desire; who (as it is reputed) if they had come to the test, had proved Copper, and should have drunk of the bitter cup as well as others.

But I do not by this, envy your favours to any persons, nor seek I to draw them into the yoak with my self, but applaud your Majesties goodness, being in that respect, in a nearer possibility to come at me.

[Page] Besides this, to Elvish your Majesty hath given Estate, which is a greater gift than Life, because it extends to posterity, who was the worst deserver in this business, an unoffended instrument, might have prevented,Sir W. Elvish. all after-mischief, who for his own ends suffered it, and by the like arts afterwards, betraid it.

To this I may add, Tresham Sir Lewis Tresham. in the Powder Treason, upon whose Successors I do not cast any of his infamy, yet he preserved himself to posterity; so as what he or others suc [...] as he, have defrauded by the arts of Law, and whom their own unfaithfulness made safe, I have much ado to hold by ingenuity and confidence. How may it be, because I distrusted not your Majesty, or because it returned in your power from whom I had it? is it in danger to be broken or dismembred? Let me hope that there is nothing which by favour may be excused, or by industry might have been avoided, that will fail me, where your Majesty is to determine. It is not I that thus put your Majesty in minde oportunely; it is he that was your creature, it is Somerset with all your honours, and envious greatness, that is now in question. Kings themselves are protected from the breach of Law, by being favourites and Gods Anointed; which gives your Majesty like privilege over yours as I took from Doctor Dun in his Sermon, that the goodness of God is not so much acknowledged by us in being our Creator, as in being our Redeemer, nor in that he hath chosen us, as that nothing can take us out of his hand: which in your Majesties remembrance let me challenge and hope for; for the first accesses of favour, they may be ascribed unto ones own pleasing themselves; but that appears to be for our sakes, and for our good, when the same forsakes not our civil desires.

This Redemption I crave, not as to my own person, but with your benesits once given; nor do I assume them very deep, for I have voluntarily departed from the hopes of my Pension, Place, Office; I onely cleave to that, which is so little as that it will suffer no paring or diminution.

And as in my former Letters, so by this, I humbly crave of your Majesty, not to let the practices of Court, work upon your Son the Prince; not fearing the sufferance of my loss in that particular, so much (for I cannot lose it, but willingly all with it) as for to take off the stage, that which in the attempt may prove inconvenient.

And consider, I pray your Majesty, that my hope in desiring to pass these bad times, was to be restored to my fortunes; others are made unhappy by me, if otherwise; and then I lose my end: I speak of impairing, of changing, or supplying, as of any other way, all such alterations and ruine are alike, without I be worthy of your gift, and that I can be worthy of all, that Law can permit you to give, or cast upon your Majesty by a more nearer Title, as it doth by this; I shall account them equal evils, that leave nothing, or a patched and proportioned one, changed, or translated from one thing to another.

[Page] But if your Majesty have any respects to move you, to suspend your good towards me, let that which is mine rest in your own hands, till that you finde all opposite humours conformed to your purpose.

I have done wrong to my self, thus to entertain such a doubt of your Majesty; but the unrelenting of adversaries, which when you will have them, will sooner alter, and that all this while, I have received nothing of present notice for direction, or to comfort me from your Majesty, hath made me to expostulate with my self thus hardly; for God is my. Iudg, Sir, I can never be worthy to be, if I have these marks put upon me of a Traitor, as that tumbling and disordering of that estate, would declare the divorce from your presence, laies too much upon me; and this would upon both.

I will say no further, neither in that, which your Majesty doubted my aptness to fall into; for my cause nor my confidence is not in that distress, as for to use that mean of intercession, nor of any thing besides, but to remember your Majesty, that I am the workmanship of your hands, and bear your stamp deeply imprinted in all the characters of favour; that I was the first Plant ingrafted by your Majesties hand in this place; therefore not to be unrootod by the same hand, lest it should taint all the same kinde, with the touch of that fatalness: and that I was even the Son of a Father, whose Services are registred in the first Honours and impressions I took of your Majesties favour, and laid there as a Foundation-stone of that building.

These, and your Majesties goodness, for to receive them, is that I rely upon; praying for your Majesties prosperity. I am in all humbleness,

Your Majesties loyal Servant and Creature, R. Somerset.

I should not trouble you with the Marriage of the Lady Arabella Stuart and Sir William St:Lady Arabella's marriage with Seymer.Maure or Seymer, both of kin to the Crown, she by the Earl of Lenox in Scotland, (as I have before said 1577.) and he Grandchilde to the third Son and the Heir of the Earl of Hartford, created by Henry 8. whose Sister he married 1537. and by Edward 6. made Duke of Somerset, and his Protector, who stiled himself, [Edward by the grace of God Duke of Somerset, Earl of Hartford, Viscount Beauchamp, Lord Seymer, Uncle to the Kings Highness of England, Governour of the Kings Person, Protector of all his Realms, Dominions and Subjects, Lieutenant General of his Majesties Armies both by Sea and Land, Lord high Treasurer, and Earl Marshal of England, Governour of the Isles of Gernsey and Jersey, and Knight of the most honourable Order of the Garter, and bears Gules, two Wings conjoyned in Fess Or.] Yet all these Honours rather helped him forwards to hop headless for Felony.

His third Son Edward was restored to the Earldom I Eliz. [Page] and this William his Heir. And thus near the Crown, in all Sovereignties are needfull to be narrowly lookt into for Marriage.

Queen Elizabeth did so, at a farther distance of danger, and her Father made it Treason in his time; I say, I should forbear more mention, but that our Detractor begins at her Death in the Tower, (where she was imprisoned, though her Husband escaped) and says, [That it set mens tongues and fears a work, that she went the same way.] having almost in his last words before, told the story of Overbury impoysoned in the Tower, Hist. Gr. Br. p. 90. by which he now enforces belief, [That her Death was so done for the Kings interest] when in truth she died a year before, in September 1615.

There happened occasion: at Common Pleas to dispute the Kings power in Commendams. The Case of the Kings right to Commendams. The Church being void, and in his gift, whether he might give a Commendam to a Bishop (either before or after his Consecration) during life or for years?

It was argued by Serjeant Chibborn against the King,

That the translation of Bishops was against the Common Law, his Text was the Canons of the Council of Sardis.

That the King had no power to grant Commendams, but necessitate.

That there would be no necessity, because no need of augmentation of Livings. No man being bound to be more hospitable than his means afforded.

And much more argument tending to overthrow the Kings Prerogative in cases of Commendams.

This case was to be farther argued in the Kings absence by all the Judges, which he thought to protract, untill they consulted with him;Sir Fr: Bacon. and so commanded his Attourney General to signifie by Letters his pleasure to all the Judges.

The Judges notwithstanding, at the day argue the Case, and return answer by Letter to the King, That they held those Letters to be contrary to Law, and such as they could not obey by Oath, and therefore had proceeded at the day appointed, setting down the Case to be upon construction of two Acts of Parliament, 25 Edward 3. and of 25 Henry 8. and now between Subjects for private interest and Inheritance. That their Oath is, That in case any Letter come to them contrary to Law, they are not to obey them, but to proceed to Iustice. And so they did the last Term, 27. April, 1616. The Judges subsign, Cook, Hobert, Tansield, Warburton, Sn [...]g, Altham, Bromley, Crook, Winch, Dodderidg, Nicols and Houghton.

The King returns them answer by Letter, Reporting himself to their own knowledg, his princely care for justice to be duly administred to his Subjects with all expedition, and how far he was from crossing or delaying the interests of private persons. But on the other side, where the case concerned the high Powers and Prerogatives of [Page] his Crown, he would not indure to have them wounded through the sides of a private person; admonishing them of an ordinary custome lately entertained, boldly to dispute the high points of his prerogative in a popular and unlawful way of Argument, not heretofore usual. Making them senceable, how weak and impertinent the pretence of their Oath was in a case of this nature; as if the Founders of their Oath, His Predcessors, were so intent in their zeal to be uncharitable to make a weapon to wound their Successors, being an ordinary course to put off Hearings and Determinings, amongst private persons Termly. And commands them peremptorily not to proceed further in that Plea, till his return to London; there to receive his further pleasure by himself; Your Oath being only for avoiding importunites to the Prince of Suiters in their own particular.

The King come to London, The 'King & Judges meet, and examine; their Letter. convenes them all to the Council Table; and himself takes in sunder the parts of the Iudges Letter, and their Errours in proceeding; both in matter and manner. In matter, by way of omission, as commission.

When the Counseller shall presume to argue his Supremacy at the Bar, and they not reprove his Insolency. Himself observing since his comming to this Grown, the popular Sort of Lawyers most affrontingly in all Parliaments have troden upon his Pre [...]ogative; though neither Law nor Lawyer can be respected, if the King be not reverenced; And therefore it became the Iudges to bridle their impudencies in their several Benches; especially the Courts of Common-Law, who had incroached upon all other Courts, High Commission, Councils in Wales, and at York, and Courts of Requests.

For the Commission in Matter, whereas their Letter excepted against his Majesties command to be against the Law, and their Oath. He tells them, deferring upon just and necessary cause is not denying or delaying of Instice, but rather wisdom and maturity. Nothing more proper than to cousult with the King where it concerns the Crown.

As for the Manner; The Kings absence before the Argument, and yet his resolved return speedily; and the case, though lately argued could not receive Iudgement till Easter. Term after, as the Iudges confessed.

And for them to say, that the case was private interest of party and party; One of the Parties is a Bishop, that pleads for the Commendam onely by vertue of his Majesties Prerogative. And that they could not prove any Solicitation of either Parties for expedition.

And for the form of the Letter, it was undecent; besides to proceed, and to return a bare Certificate, without giving reasons therefore

[Page] Upon this all the Iudges fell down on their knees, acknowledging their Errour, and craving Pardon.

But for the Matter, the Chief Iustice Cook entered into a Defence, That the stay by his Majesty, was a delay of Iustice, and therefore against Law and their Oath, that as they meant to handle the Pleading, it should not concern the King's Prerogative.

To which the King told him, That for them to discern the concernment of his Prerogative without consult with him, was preposterous. And for those of Law and Oath, he had said sufficient before. Therefore he required the Lord Chancellour's opinion herein, whether against Law and their Oath?

The Chancellour excused himself as to that of Law, referring it to the opinion of the King's Council; whereupon the Atturney General Bacon said,

That to put off the Day was no Delay of Justice, nor endangered their Oath; for the King's Reasons were onely, that it concerned his Prerogative, and required therefore a stay for a small time; and advised the Judges, whether this refusal of their did not rather endanger their Oath; which was, To counsel the King when they are called: but to counsel after the matter is past, was a simple refusal to give him Counsel at all. And all the rest of the Council concluded with him.

The Chief Justice Cook excepted, That the King's Council should plead against the Iudges; being their duties to plead before them, not against them.

Whereunto the Attourney replied, That the King's Council were by Oath and Office, not onely to plead, proceed, and declare against the greatest Subject, but also against any body of Subjects or persons, nay, were they Iudges or Courts, or House of Commons in Parliament; and concluded, That the Iudges challenge was a wrong to their Places, and appealed to the King, who was firm for them.

The Chief Justice replied, He would not dispute it with his Majesty. The King replied, Nor with my Council. So then whether you do well or ill, it may not be disputed.

The Chancellour gave his opinion with the King, and his Council.

Hereupon the positive Question was put by all the Lords, Whether in a Case depending, which the King might conceive himself concerned in power or profit, and requiring to consult with them they ought not to stay proceedings?

All the Judges submitted thereto, onely the Chief Justice excepted, saying, When that Case should be, then he would do his duty.

But the Chief Justice of the Common Pleas said, For his part, He would always trust the justice of the King's command.

But the Day drawing nigh, the next Saturday, for arguing [Page] the Commendams, the King desired the Judges to express, Whether they would then argue upon the Kings general power of granting Commendams, yea or no.

They all concluded, Not to draw into doubt his power, but to insist upon the point of Lapse, which they conceived to be of a form different from former Commendams; and concluded to correct the insolencies of bold arguing the Prerogative.

Judge Doderidge concluded for the King, That the Church was void, and in his gift, and might give a Commendam to a Bishop, either before or after Consecration, during Life or years.

The Judges being gone, the privy Council resolved that the Kings desire was not against the Judges Oath, nor against the Common Law to require; and all of them subscribed to the same.

This Dispute was publiquely scanned and censured in favour of the Judges, and on the contrary for the King, but the truth I have really extracted out of the Records of the Council Table; That you may thereby see the true scope of those times.

The State of Spain Spain and France cross Mariage with Savoy. having little to do in Martial affairs; K. Philip the third, now in peace, thought to spend some time in Treati [...]s, wherin he seldom failed of advantage. The late French King Henry the fourth, had 3. daughters; the one maried to the Duke of Savoy; which the Spaniard misliking to have those Neighbours lately so great Enemies, now to be linkt in love without his Interest, conceived it good policy to indeer the young King Lewis of France in a cross Match, to his Daughter Infanta Anna, and to marry his son Philip to the Princess Elizabeth; the second daughter of Henry the fourth.

And thus those cross Nuptials might seem to cement the affections of the three States, lately so imbroyled in War, which no doubt either of them had good cause to accept; though it was said S. P. Q. R. Spain, Pope, Queen-Regent had the chief hand, to undo the young King.

For the Father Henry the fourth, had made Wars upon the Duke of Savoy to recover the Marquisate of Saluses, and this King of Spain under colour to aid the Duke (his Brother in Law) sent him Horse and foot of Spaniards. But the peace concluded, by exchange of Saluses, with the Countries of Bresse and Gex; the Spanish Auxilliaries, being muzled in warm quarters, at Carboniers, Montemellion, Savillau, and Pignorell (the best places of Savoy, and Piedmont) would not budge; no! though the Duke begg'd of them to be gone; but were absolutely commanded the contrary by Count Fuentes, Viceroy of Millain, [Page] and so staid, until that valiant Duke, in this danger very desperate, cut all their throats.

Spain, in policy to revenge, pieces with France to disjoyn Savoy; upon whom he had afterward many Treacherous Designs, as that Plot upon his Castle of Nice (the Key of his Counties) when his Spanish Gallies lay at Villa Franca to have seized all Savoys Issue.

And as it was usual with Princes in Peace and Amitie, to congratulate Nuptialls;K. James congratulates their Nuptials by Lord Hay. The Lord Hay was looked upon, as the most proper for this Errand into France. In some measure, he had the Kings favour, his affection not at all. For Wise Kings know how to do the One, and yet hide the Other; so mysticall things are Courts; this makes many men misjudge, That the Kings friendships made every one a Favourite; and by often changing their Persons, was therefore held inconstant in his passions.

This Lord,Lord Hay his Birth and breding. born a Gentleman in Scotland by his bearing of Cote-Arms, Argent three Escocheons Gules; Supported two countrie Swains, armed Plough Trails, The crest, a Dove volant proper. His story was; that his Ancestors at Plough with those Instruments their Geer, slew Malton an High-land Rebel, and discomfited his Train; for which service, had so much Land, (barren Rocks) as a Pigeon, cast off the fist, flew over, till she rested. And all this great purchase could not keep him from seeking livelyhood in France; where he was bred no other than a Gens d' Arms unto Henrie the fourth, but quitted that service in hopes of better preferment of his own Sovereign.

And over he comes to meet the King at his entrance into England, upon recommendation of the French Lieger in Scotland, who continued so here; and presented Haies upon former knowledge in France. This, and his other good parts (being well accomplished) hastened him higher in esteem, than others of his Countrey, whose neerer attendance had merited more.

But, to boot, he sought out a good Heir (Gup my Ladie Dorothy) sole Daughter to the Lord Dennie, and to fit him forward, after Knighthood he had honour; and was made a Lord, for reasonable riches his wife brought with her.

In grateful acknowledge of his first preferment, he feasted the former Embassadour (being lately returned extraordinary to this King) wherein he exceeded the limits of an Entertainment which for that time was excused, as a grateful Ceremony of a large Dinner.

The Scots were never very eminent with neighbour Nations, what credit they had, came by the French to keep ballance with Them and England; the increase might heretofore be hoped for, [Page] when the union of these Crowns, should afford the means to set them forth. And it wat prudential in the King to pick out one of his Own, to splendour that Nation in our way of Peace and Courtship;Ambassadour▪ into France. especially, when all was done at the Masters cost. For Haies was ever reasonable poor, unless by repute of his first Match, which was not much while her Father lived; and by his last, he had less; the great spirit of Peircie Earl of Northumberland, though a Prisoner then in the Tower, disdaining the Mariage, denied her a Groat to a beggerlie Scot, as he called him.

This first Embassie was for no other end, than to congratulate; for certainly he had no Commission nor Credential to make scrutiny for matching our Prince with the other Sister, she being then too young, and overtures were then thought on with Spain, and so it was advertised from Sir Dudley Charlton, Ambassadour at the Hague, that there was a fame spread of such as desire to weaken the Kings correspondence with that State, That his Majestie was on neer terms of matching our Prince with Spain,Hist. Gr. Brie. p. 92. and by an Adviso out of Spain, That this match had been there debated in the Inquisition, and judged necessarie.

And in truth the Lord Ross L. Ross sent into Spain. was sent Ambassadour thither (partly for that purpose) at this time also, upon the like errand, to give joy to that King, for the counter-match of his Son, and had his Instructions to feel the pulse of that Court concerning the same, (for I waited on him neerer in his affairs, than any of his Train) and both these Ambassadours sent away at the same time. It was remarkable how each of them strove for the prize to out-vy in the vanity of these Voyages; the Baron to his utter undoing, having no other helps but his own, when the other had it from the Kings purse, and in truth, for this purpose to put down the English, as in that great Feast at Essex-House, and many his Masqueradoes afterwards at Court, for he medled not with the Tilt, as being no Swordman; but in the other and such like, he never scaped to act his part.

Amongst many others that accompanyed Haies Expedition, was Sir Henrie Rich, Sir H. Rich Baron of Ken sington, his birth and breding. Knight of the Bath, and Baron of Kensington, afterwards Earl of Holland, natural son to the then Earl of Warwick; He took his initiation of expence, from this journey, and continued the practice afterwards to the weakning of his (long time) unsettled fortunes, being forced through custom of the Court to follow the other in all his fashions; and which infection, by after-custome, became his disease also, and almost (not over-mastering) yet over-shadowing his natural eminent parts, with which his inside was habited, and perspicuous to such as afterwards knew him.

Thus much I had occasion to say heretofore, to which hath [Page] been exception; as if I undertook him besides the Text, in a wanton pleasure of my own pen to blazon his memory with the foyl of his friend.

Truly, it was not so! by any unequal disparity to pride out the other: For, let me here take the freedom to speak more of him; who from henceforth being received into publick, and comming in by his own endeavours to the place of Cap. of the Band of Yeomen of the Guard to the Kings person, a place of honour and profit; and increasing with years and experience into some favour now, and afterwards in high grace and esteem with the succeeding Sovereign; was yet (I must confess) in the fate of State and Court, circumvested now and then with some prejudice.

And it may be uneasy for a stranger (not for me) to research with due distinction into the Actions of his whole life succeeding (not to enliven him by a line) whom envy heretofore, and now malice after his decease, have endeavoured to blemish more than his own former felicity did, or could any way corrupt.

If we deduce him from his Cradle, we shall find him, as it were, begotten to an inheritance of true Nobleness and Courtlike grace, in more real splendour than others, that seemed to appear compatible with him, they being onely made so by hand.

His life indeed was intricate, sometime struggling with the by-paths-of Sovereign-favour, and afterwards of State-affairs. Which at last (and at worst) infected him with the disease of the times, more malignant in his Counsellors, and other his Confidents, then in his own conscience or inclination; and so drew him on by various disguises of subtilty, with the composition of his good nature, till the remain of his life was involved into Ingagements unstable; the effects whereof smothered him in the uncouth deluge of destruction.

I have no adverse aim or end, on either side of these two Lords to embase the freedom of my Opinion or Judgement, being tryed into some purity of truth by my own knowledge of the former. and of this other by more exact account, than by most men, or by any other pen may be expected.

But I am not delighted to urge out this story of the Lord Haies, as not willing to speak evilly of any person of his Honour, unlike Our Adversaries that spare none; For we should know that virtue and vice are inherent in Man.

And as it becomes us to tell truth when we speak of their virtues, so with modesty and compassion to discover their vices. Either of them being examples for the future, that to imitate, this to shun. And I cannot but with compunction remind, that [Page] the monstrous excess of the Belly and the Back, by his first President, became then, the mode of those Times for great Persons (the most part) to follow, and for ordinary people to put in practice, even to this day, and may be feared, for ever hereafter.

The Sword being sheathed up in the Scabberd, Peace and Plenty brought the Law into esteem, the onely over-ruling power to set men (even) by the ears, and make them the more quiet ever after.

But then Cases increased so common, that Conscience was troubled to reconcile them, and made a Quarrel of Justice it self, between Sir Edward Cook Chief Justice of Law, and the Lord Elsmore Keeper of the Conscience, who had the better of the Cause, to the others ruine.

The Case was thus:

Sundry Citizens got Judgment in the Court of Common-Pleas by a juggling Trick, that staved off an opposite Witness; the Plaintiff nevertheless exhibits his Bill in Chancery against the Defendants, who sit out Process of Contempt, and refusing to answer, are committed to the Fleet. And for their Relief exhibit their Bill in Star-chamber, against the Lord Chancellour Elsemore, grounded upon the Statute of 4 Henry 4: ca. 23. That the Iudgment given in the Kings Court [...]hall not be examined in Chancery, Parliament, or elsewhere, untill it be undone by Attaint or Errour, &c. and so thereby he had incurred Praemunire, and the Chief Justice Cook interposed, and encouraged the Complainants.

The Chancellour acquaints the King, who sends to Bacon Attourney General, Sir Henry Montague, and Sir Randal Crue, Serjeants at Law, and Sir Henry Yelverton, Solicitor; these men report back, That there hath been a strong current of practice and proceeding in Chancery after Iudgment at Common Law, and many times after Execution, continued since Henry the Seventh's time to this day, in Cases where there is no other Remedy at Common Law; unto which the Iudges are peremptorily sworn.

And with this Sentence on Elsmore's side, the aged Statesman leaves the Seat of deciding, and sits down himself to his devotions, leaving the Seal to be born by Bacon. But the manner of the dispose is mis-told by the Pamphlet, Court & Ch: p. 125. [who makes it the Chancellour's heart-break to be rid of the charge] when in ttuth, the Term come, and Elsmore sick, the King sent for the Seal, by Secretary Winwood, with a gracious Message; That himself would be his Deputy, and not dispose it whilest Elsmore lived to bear the Title of Chancellour, nor did any one receive it out of the King's sight till he was dead, nor long after.

[Page] And because we may be assured of the Kings gratious favour to that grave Chancelour, see what he saies to him in two Letters following, writ every word with the Kings own hand.

My Lord,

These shall first congratulate and thank God with you, for your recoverie, and growing to health again, for which I protest to God I praied everie Morn and Eve, since you was at the worst, as oft as I praied for mie self. And next you shall be herebie informed, how senseable I am of that disgrace offered to that Court of mine wherein you sit, especially at a time so unseasonable; It cannot but be a comfort to you to know, how every Man censured the pertiallity and barbarity of that action; and for my part, you maie assure your self it shall onelie be in your default of not informing me if I do not upon this occasion free my self from fascherie of any such inconvenients hereafter, I mean of such jarring betwixt my Courts of Iustice; for I will whollie upon your information and advice, what course to take in the handling of this business, assuring my self, that your conscience and care for my honour and service, will set me in a course, for making such an example in this case, as may settle good Government in like Cases hereafter; and so I bid you heartilie farewell.

Febr. 25. 1615. New-market.

James Rex.

Thus the King writes then; and continued unto this grave Statesman such gracious Favours and esteem to the last of his daies, for a twelvemonth after this letter, and not long before his death, he writes again.

To the Right Trusty and Right Well-beloved Our Chancelour of England.

My Lord,

The Letter I wrote the last year from this same Town unto you, proved so good a Cordial for your health, as I am thereby incouraged to do the like at this time; and as I both hope and praie for with the like success; I cannot but be eztremelie sorrie for your want of health; but I confess I am more sorry for the evil conceit you have of your own strength, which makes me the more to presume upon the good Operation of this Physick of mine, since, I am sure it can work more upon your mind than anie other worldlie thing. The Greatness, [Page] of your place, and the abilitie which God hath given you to discharge it, to the honour of God, and the great benefit of the Commonwealth, is a cause sufficient to stir you up to be careful of your own health, and even to fight against disease as far as you can; but when you shall remember how evil I maie want you, and what miss your Master shall have of you, I hope that reason will be predominant to make you not strive, but conquer your disease, not for your own sake but for his; of whom you maie promise your self as much love and heartie affection as might be expected from so thankful and kind a Master, to so honest and worthily deserving a Servant; and so praiing God to bless this mie cure, I bid you heartilie farewell.

Febr. 9. 1616.

New-market.

James Rex.

Hereupon there was some appearance of his amendment, which the Prince congratulates under his own hand.

My Lord Chancelour,

As I was verie sorrie, having understood of your dangerous sickness, so I do much rejoice of the good appearance of your recovery, which Thomas Murrey hath declared unto me, and of the affection and caee you have of my person and of mie Estate, for which you and yours shall ever find me most willing to give testimonie to the World, how much I respect those who are truly affected towards me. I hope bie Gods grace to give you particular bie mie self, and that God shall give you health and strength of bodie and mind, that the King, Queen, and I, with this whole Kingdom: may long enjoie the fruit of your long, wise and religious experience, which wishing from my heart, I end

New-market, Febr. 18. 1616.

Yours, Charles Pr.

These being the last Letters, and thus assured of the acknowledgement of his Masters favour toward his merit, he takes leave of this Life the fifteenth of March following, 14. of Iac. 1616.

The Common-pleas, or Comunia Placita, is the Kings Court, or Bancus Communis, Anno 2. Edw. 3. cap. II. so called, Quia Communia Placita inter subditos, or controversies between common persons, it was now held in Westminster- Hall. But in antient times moveable, as appears by Magna Charta cap. II. And [Page] that upon grant of that Charter, the Court of common-pleas was erected and settled, and one place certain, viz. at Westminster, wheresoever the King lay, and that after that time all the Writs ran, Quod sit coram Iusticiariis meis apud Westmonast.

Whereas before, the party was commanded by them to appear, Coram me vel Iustitiaris meis, simply without addition of place; see Glanvile and Bracton, the one writing in Henrie the seconds time, before this Court was erected; the other in Henrie the thirds time, who erected this Court. All Civil causes, real and personal are (or were in former times) in this Court according to the strickt Law of this Realm. And by Fortescue cap. 50. it seemeth to have been the only Court for real causes. The chief Judge thereof is called, Lord Chief Iustice of the Common-pleas, accompanied with three or four Assistants or Associates, who are created by Letters pattents from the King, and are installed (as it were) upon the Bench by the Lord Chancelour, and Lord Chief Iustice of that Court. See Fortescue ca. 51. who sets down all the Circumstances of their admission. The rest of the Officers are these; the Custos Brevium, three Proto-Notaries, or principal Notaries, called also Pregnotaries; Chirographer, Filazers in number fourteen, Exigenters four; Clerk of the Warrants, Clerk of the Iuries, or Iurata Writs, Clerk of the Treasury, Clerk of the Kings Silver; Clerk of the Essoines; Clerk of the Out-laws.

The Common Law is so antient,Lex terrae, what? we know not the commencement; Lex Angliae peculiar onely to this Land. Of long time following the Conquest, ever more quarrelled for enjoyment of antient Liberties; until Henrie the third allowed English men English Laws, add in his ninth year granted the great Charter, which himself infringed, and thereupon followed fourty years Barons Warrs (as Histories stile them) until in his fifty two year, that Charter was again reviewed and compiled, and solemnly sworn unto by succeeding Sovereigns.

The ground of which binds the King per Legem terrae, and what is this Lexterrae? Leges Anglicanae fuerunt approbatae consensu utentium & Sacramento Regum confirmatae. Lex facit Regem; attribuat igitur Rex legi, quod Lex attribuit ei, viz. dominationem & potestatem; ubi non Lex, ibi non Rex. So then Lex fecit Regem. Not so neither; Kings in England before Lawes; but indeed Communis Consuetudo Regni fuit Lex terrae.

This being the Law without commencement; as the Genius to all, and Parliaments Statutes, Prerogatives of Princes, Customes of Counties, Cities, Burroughs, Mannors, are but the species of it. For general Customs made the Law, authorities Parliaments, Limits Prerogatives and Customes, consonant or disonant to Reason; so much for Communis Lex.

[Page] But in practice (say some) the Chancery is above Law, and yet duely examined, that also is allowed per Legen terrae, as a species of that.

The reason thus.Cancelaria, what?

The Common Law grounded upon general Maxims, they might be too severe, or too relax; and therefore necessarily requiring Equity, Secundum aequum & bonum, & sanam cons [...]ientiam.

And this Chancelour notwithstanding limitted by Law and erected by Law, although it seems above Law. For

No Judge hath Jurisdiction without some grant or commission out of that Court under the Great Seal, which is intrusted to the Chancelor.

No Judge can hold plea without an Original Writ framed in Chancerie, and by his appointment returnable before the Judges, and yet all these considered, the King, the Law, the Chancery agree together.

The Chancerie then must needs be erected (subsequent) by the common Law, to relieve and supply the Law in some cases, where the simple subject was cosened by craft; ignorance, also may offend, without malice.

Moses Law, in divers cases Political and Ceremonial, he could not decide (uncleanness by touching the dead) but referred it to God.

The name of this Officer is, Dominus Cancelarius Angliae, a a Cancelour; do but then quere what he might cancel?

Some say it is, Cancelare Iniquom legem comm [...]nnem, Iudicare secundum conscientiam; but this is an errour; will the Law give power to deface her self that made it?

The Chancelour cannot stay the course of Law, but onely injunct the person not to follow the Law; not to cancel the Law; for notwithstanding this injunction, if the party will sit out contempt, and proceed at common Law, the Judges cannot deny him.

Indeed rhis Officer hath his name of canceling the Kings Letters pattents, so much of honour to the Law, as the other way had been dishonourable.

The nature of Letters pattents bind the King and his Successors, and all Subjects, though unfit or unjust; the Judges of Law are co judge it void, but cannot deface it nor the Seal, but the Chancelour, as a Judge of Law may, (but not by his absolute authority) by his ordinary power and course of common Law, is to judge of it, and to hold plea of it, and to call the party interessed by process of Law, and so to repeal it by Judgement; and then cancel it: which no person can do but

[Page] And this was done, Transversa linea circumducere vel conscindere aliquod Edictum decretum contra Principem, aut jus Reipublicae impetrari; which cancelling is made with Lines drawn across like Latices, and it is said that Judgement seats were of old compassed with Latices, or Barrs cross waies, to defend the Judges and Officers from the prease of people, and yet not to hinder their view. Chancells were so divided from the body of the Church, and thereupon so called.

And the Lord Chancelour and Lord Keeper have one power, by Stat. anno 5. Eliz.

So then you see how, and for what he hath his name.

And though his Authority be highest, yet it is given to him by the Law, and proceedeth in course of Law, not according to conscience, but Law.

That all Justice runs from the Supreme power; so by the Chancelour to all Jurisdiction.

A man complains of wrong or sues for right in Chancery; from which Bill of complaint issues a precept commanding the Defendent to appear at a Day; So then a man may not be sued before he have a Writ or Breve from the Chancelour, a singular regard to the meanest.

The very Writs of Chancerie are prescribed by Law, and a form registred in Chancery, and if not accordingly issued out, the Judges will reject them, called in Law, Abating of the Writ.

His Authority to judge,Authority in Judging. is of two sorts, by common Law, or Positive Law, Potentia Ordinata, Processe, pleading judgement.

Potentia Absoluta; by Processe according to the Law of Nature, viz. to send for the party, to answer upon Oath; to examine, if he will not answer, yet the Chancelour cannot condemn him in the cause for obstinacy.

Potentia Ordinata, mispleading on either part, may mar the matter, and the judgement must be according to Law, however the Equity of the case fall out.

But if the pleading be by Absolute Power, though the party misplead, if the matter be good, the Iudgement must be by equity, and not as the pleading, be either formal good or bad, or as the law will in the case.

The Question followes, whether, that conscience whereby the Chancelour be simpliciter; and to be simplex conscientia, or Regulata? Viz. To be ordered by course of Court, former Presidents? and if no Presidents; whether Reason in codem respectu, may take cognisance of the cause? viz.

A rich Father to suffer an honest son to beg; or a rich son contrario? the Chancelour cannot?

[Page] Hereupon we may conclude that his Authority judicial, both Ordinata, and Absoluta Potestas, are limitted by the Law of the Land.

For in the Ordinary he is tyed to the strict rule of Law, and by the Absolute, he is ruled (though not by the course of law) yet he is to deal per regulatam conscientiam, but in any case not to contradict what Law hath allowed.

But to conclude; his Absoluta Potestas, by what means he should find out truth. Truly it is without limitation, only to be referred to his own Gifts, and the grace of God that gives Wisdom.

Sir Francis Bacon succeeded Elsemere Lord Chancelour,Sir F. Bacon succeeds chancelour. though a wonder to some [so mean a Man to so much preferment] he was then Atturney General,Co. & ch. pa. 126. and as others by that placc, and in the usual way of preferment (time beyond memory) come to high Office of Indicature, either there, or to other Benches; and so did he. But his Mis-deeds afterwards turned him out of all, and he dyed poor and private. See Anno 1621.

And as his Genesis of preferment came to the chair of State, so the Exodus of the Treasurer Suffolk in his Office, brought him to the Star-Chamber, and the Glory of the new Chancelour, Chair-man there, to sit in censure upon him, and so to set out himself in his Matchless Eloquence; which he did then by Sentence, as the Mouth of the Court; as all others had done; Their abilities affording them several waies and manners in that Court more particular, as their Qualities concern them to distinguish.

So here also the Chief Iustice Cook newly revived from the sad condition of former disgrace for his too narrow inquisition upon the faults and fall of Somerset. He now finding the Fate of Court-policy final in this Lord, and his malice at Liberty to speak what he list; Parrallels this Lords Crimes with other such corrupt Treasurers, raking Presidents of all former Predecessors.

Even from Randolphus de Britton; who was sentenced to lose all lands and goods, but was restored to him, and fined 3000. 1. for misusing K. H. 3. Treasure.

Such another was Treasurer of Ireland, Petrus de Rivallis, and of great command also, high Chamberlain of England to Edw. 1. his Offences were Bribes, of all men, poor and rich; Religiosis quam de Laicis, fined and ransomed.

So did the Abbot and Moncks at Westminster, took out of that Kings Treasury there, ad inestimabile Damnum Regis & Regni; For which these privileged pretenders could not be exempt from Tryal, and the Temporalities of the Abby seized [Page] for satisfaction; till which time of payment they suffered Imprisonment.

Nay, Walter de Langton Bishop of Coventry and Lichfield scapes not Edw. 2. This Treasurer took bribes then, though small, but a hundred pound of the Earl of Monteallo, ut amicus in agendis negotiis versus dominum Regem; lets him escape Prison to do his bu [...]inesse; and given of free Will, and ex curialitate sua; yet in those dayes it amounted to Extortion.

But he had Additionalls, having indicted Iohn de Eugam of Tresgass, for the Mannor of Fisby, to which the King had title, and imprisoned him; and when another Mannor was conveyed to the Bishop for Courtesies done, diversas curialitates, Eugam was set at liberty; but it seems the Bishops plea would not serve his turn, That the King would rather punish by Imprisonment, than fine.

And those good times accounted it Bribery.

Again, the Bayliff of Oxford was committed for arrears of one hundred pound in his accompt▪ and the Mannor of Calcat conveyed to the Bishop for satisfaction, yet because he was of pure Devotion discharged by the Bishop, these cases all three were condemned of Extortion and Bribery, and the Bishop soundly paid for it, by his purse and imprisonment.

In Edw. 3. He imprisoned William Lord Latimer with punishment and fine, being in Commission to pay off the Kings debts, he compounded for eighty per centum, and 30. for 40. by which saies the Record, he turned it upon the King to be a Bankrupt Compounder.

So did the Baron Nevil bought the Kings debts of the Army, and though he pleaded that they forgave him the Remainder freely, yet was he fined.

Such like as these were brought Examples to raise the Offence of this Lord Treasurer; of himself as of high birth, so most Noble, and without doubt disdaining to commit base crimes; but whether the guilt of Sir Iohn Dingly, one of the Tellers in Exchequer, an intimate Servant to the Secrecies of Suffolks Countess; or some necessity to make bold to borrow such sums as his Fabrick Awdle-End had need of; Or the vain and monstrous expence heretofore of that family. All that could be (besides the necessity of Court-Fate) cast in his dish, was the imbezeling the monies lately paid by the States of the Netherlands for redemption of the cautionary Towns Flushing and Bril; and he fined thirty thousand pounds, and Dingly two thousand pounds, the Man deserving to pay for all, it being of his designing.

But the Treasurer was from thenceforth for some time trusted to Commissioners.

[Page] At Midsummer after the King comes to Star-Chamber, then intending to settle his homea-ffairs, for his resolved journey into Scotland, which began the next Spring, and therefore now the more to exalt the Seat of Iustice, of which this Court was most eminent; he discharges his duty to God and his people in a most excellent Discourse, the character of his inward inclination to Iustice and Piety.

His MAIESTIES SPEECH at his first comming to the Star-Chamber.

He begins with Scripture. Give thy Iudgements to the King, O God, and thy righteousness to the Kings Son; the literal sense upon the Prophet David, and his Son Solomon, godly and wise; the mystical sense upon God and Christ his eternal Son, just and righteous; from which imitation all Governments, especially Monarchies, have been established. Kings are properly Iudges, and sit in the Throne of God, and thence all Iudgement is derived, from the King to his Magistrates, not to them Privative but Cumulative. So the Council of Jethro to Moses, the Iudges were deputed for easier questions, the more profound left to Moses. So, all Christian Kings govern; whereby appears the neer Conjunction, God and the King upwards, the King and his Iudges downward; the King to settle the Law of God, and his Iudges, to interprete the Law of the King.

Thus a Jove principium, he comes to his Errand; I. Why he came not to speak here in fourteen, years as his Predicessors have done often, especially Henry 7. from whom the King is descended doubly to this Crown, and so desires to follow him, in his best actions? 2. Why he comes now?

For the first, Though he had been an old King, when he came hither, and well practised to Government, from twelve years of age, yet here he resolved with Pythagoras to keep silence for seven years. That Apprenticeship ended; the Impediment was the choice of some worthy Cause, betwixt King and some Subject, or Subject and Subject. The one might seem partial as for himself, the other oblique in favour of a party.

But twice seven years his whole Reign here brings him openly to speak now publickly, concerning the reformation of Iudicature in Westminster-Hall, which heretofore he had in part delivered in private occasions.

Dividing his Charge,

1. To himself;

2. To the Judges;

3. To the Auditory.

[Page] First, He protests that as Confirmation follows Baptism, so now he renews his Oath of Coronation, in Justice and Law, the common Law of the Land. He never pressed to alter, but (as in the union of his person) so he eudeavoured it real, to conform Scotland to England, not this to that, anent the prophecy of his Grandfather, Henry 7. That the lesser Kingdom by marriage would follow the greater, not the greater the less; and therefore married his eldest Daughter Margaret to James the fourth, the Kings great Grandfather. And so blames that nice opinion, that the Union of Great Brittain would alter our Laws, which he ever declined, as a Maxim in matters of State and Policy, Innovation and alteration makes it worse; that he was sworn to these Laws, and to alter them had been perjury in him, Iustice may be moderated by him with mercy, but in matters of Iustice he will be blind to partiality: to hasten Iustice, never to delay.

He distinguishes the Law; The Inheritance of King and Subject to be determined by the Common Law, set down by our Forefathers, and expounded by learned men in their Comments, and called Responsa Prudentum, or by Statute-Law, and this is Law of Inheritance.

The other Law, Gods Law, governs all, Common and Municipalls as Dependents; and he complains of the neglect of Divine Laws, and disrespect to the Ministers of the Church, which is the most pure, and neerest the primitive and Apostolical Church in doctrine and discipline of any in Christendome.

Next to this is the Civil Law (the Law of Nations) It satisfies strangers, and his own subjects in matters of Pyracy, Mariage, Wills, which Law he divides, Civil and Canon, and complains of the contempt upon it, and concludes his own charge, to maintain so to purge it from two corruptions. Incertainty and Novelty to cleer it to the people by advice of Iudges, and to purge it of Niceties introduced by Iudges themselves. And so as the Pastor takes the Sacrament himself, and then distributes, so he to them, least it be said, Turpe est Doctori, cum culpa redarguit ipsum.

The charge to the Iudges consists of three parts, To do Iustice, Generally; Indifferently, Fearfully. Generally, uprightly as to answer God, and the King aud punishment from either. Indifferently to all parties, King and Subject, Subject and Subject, without delay partiallity, clean and uncorrupt. Fearfully, Not your own conceits, for you are no Law makers, but Interpreters. Jus dicere, not Jus dare. For you have no voice in Parliament but to advise. And though some Laws are obscure and may be better known to you by Books and Presidents, yet their interpretations must be subject to common sense and reason, Ratio est anima Legis, cleer Law, or solid Reason.

But where the formality hath no place, as in Denmark, the State [Page] is governed by written Law, no Advocate or Proctor; only the parties plead and the Law is read, and so sentence. He complains of our curious wits; Various conceipts; different actions; and several examples which breed questions in Law. But if plain, it speaks it self, if otherwise (as inventions abound) they are to enterprete and draw a good Minor of natural Reason out of a Major of direct Law, and so will follow a true Conclusion; though common Law be a Mystery, and your interpretation be not understood, yet by the reason of Logick and common sense, it will be false. And as they are Iudges and divided into Benches, so they must confer, debate, not single opinions, per emendata suffragia; and thus in generall to their Office.

And as to their Limits.

First, Not to incroach upon Prerogatives of the Crown, deal not in difficult questions ere you consult with the King and Council, otherwise, is to wound the King through the sides of a Private person, and herein commends some of the Iudges, that of late rebuked and blunted the sharp edge, and vain popular honour of some Pleaders at the Bar for meddling therein. The mystery of the Kings power is not lawful to be disputed, which seems to wade into the weakness of Sovereigns; diminishes the mystical reverence of them that sit in the Throne of God.

Secondly, One Iudicature not to invade upon others, unsit and unlawful, and herein he inlarges himself. That besides Common-Law there are Courts of Requests, Admiralty, President and Council of Wales, of the North. High Commission, and every Bishops Court. These shall keep their limits and bounds, so the common Law shall not encroach upon them, nor they on that.

In Westminster-Hall, four Courts; Two Civil, Common-Pleas, and Exchequer; Two Criminal, Kings Bench, and Star-Chamber. The Common-pleas, is a Branch of the Kings Bench, being first in one Court, and after the Common-pleas being extracted, it was so called, as Pleas of private men. The other, the Exchequer for the Kings Revenue, the principal institution thereof, and their chief study; and as other things come orderly thither so to administer justice.

Keep you within compass, give me my right of private Prerogative, I shall acquiesce; as for the Prerogative of the Crown, it is not for a Lawyers tongue, nor lawful to be disputed. It is Atheism to dispute what God can do, his revealed Will ought to content us, so is it contempt in a subject to dispute what a King can, or cannot do; the Law is his revealed Will.

The Kings Bench is the principal Court for Criminal causes, and in some respects it deals with Civil causes.

The Chancery, a Court of Equity, and deals likewise in Civil. The Dispenser of the Kings Conscience, following the intention of [Page] Law and Iustice, not altering Law, nor e converso; It exceeds all Courts, mixing Mercy with Iustice. Other Courts are onely for Law: and where the strictness of Law might undo a subject, there the Chancery tempers it with Equity, and preserves men from destruction.

The Chancery is undependent of any other Court; only under the King Teste me ipso; from which no appeal, yet am I bound, so to maintain others, as this, not to suffer wrong.

My Chancelour that now is, I found him Keeper of the Seal, the same in substance with the other stile. He is witness, my warrant was to him, to go on according to Presidents in time of best Kings, and most learned Chancellours.

The duty of Iudges is, to punish such as deprave the Kings Courts, and therfore it was an inept Speech in Westminster-Hall, to say, that a Praemunire lay against the Court of Chancery, yet it should not be boundless, the King is to correct it, and none else, and therefore the King was abused in that attempt, and now commands that none presume to sue a praemunire against it.

As all inundations are conceived Prodigious by Astrologers, so overflowings of the banks of Iurisdiction is inconvenient and Prodigious to the State; Let there be a concordance and musical accord amongst you; keep to your Presidents, authentick, not controverted, but approved by common usage of best Kings, and most learned Iudges.

The Star-Chamber Court, hath been shaken of late, and last year had received a blow, if not prevented by a few voices. He descants on the name Star, a glorious creature, next in place to the Angels; the Court glorious in substance, compounded of four sorts of persons. The first two, Privy Counsellors, and Judges; wisd [...]m of State, learning in Law: The other two sorts, Peers and Bishops; to give Greatness and Honour to the Court; the other of Learning in Divinity, and the interest of the good Government of the Church. So divine and humane Laws, Experience and practice in Government, are conjoined in the proceedings of this Court.

No Kingdom without a Court of Equity, either by it self, as in England, or mixed in their Office that are Iudges of the Law, as in Scotland, and here in England where the Law determines not cleerly, there the Chancery does, having equity, which belongs to no other Court; punishing Attempts, other Courts only facts, and where the Law punishes facts lightly, as in Riots or Combates, the Star Chamber punishes in a higher degree, as in Combinations, Practises, Conspiracies: so being instituted for good, give it the more honour.

Keep your Courts in harmony; Iudges are Brethren, the Courts Sisters, the Muses: to differ breeds contempt to either, and disputes against each other, turns pleas from Court to Court in circular [Page] Motion, Ixions wheel; the reason of Multitudes of Prohibitions, causes are scourged from Court to Court, like Tantalus fruit, neer the Suiters Lip, never to his Taste, a delay of Iustice makes causes endless.

He tells them how he hath laboured to gather Articles, an Index expurgatorius of Novelties crept into the Law; look to Plowdens Cases, and the old Responsa Prudentum, if you find it not there, then (ab initio non fuit sic) away withit.

To the Auditory he hath but little to say; As he hath confirmed his Resolution to maintain his Oath, the Law and Iustice of the Land. So he expects their duty in observance of the Law, and divides their submission into three parts.

First, In general to give due reverence to the Law. This general he devides also into three;

Not to sue but upon just cause;

Be content with Iudgement to acquiesce as he will do, equal with the [...]eanest Subject.

Do not complain and importune the King against Iudgement. It is better to maintain an unjust D [...]cree, than to question every judgement after Sentence, as you come gaping for Iustice, be satisfyed with the Iudgement; but in Bribes complain boldly; if not true, from you expect Lex Talionis; to accuse an upright Iudge deserves double punishment.

Secondly, In your Pleas, pr [...]sume not against the Kings Prerogative or honour: if you do, the Iudges will punish you; if they do not, I will them and you. Plead not new Puritanical strains; to make all things popular, keep the antient limits of pleas.

Thirdly, change not your Courts, as if to mistrust the justness of your cause, but submit where you begin. So he sums up all; The charge to his Self, Iudges, and Auditory; his excuse why he came not till now; why now.

And because of his custome to deliver a charge to the Iudges of circuits; He tells them now also, As they are Iudges with him in that Court, so Iudges under him and his Substitutes in circuits; Itinerant to his people; a laudable custome to go to the people in their Counties, as they come up to them at Westminster-Hall. That you go to punish, as to prevent offences; charge the Iustices of peace their duties, take an accompt of them, and report their Services to the King, for the King hath two offices, 1. To direct; 2. To take an accompt from them to his Chancellour in writing, and so to him.

Of these two parts, the Nisi prius is profit for them, and the other necessary for him, therefore as Christ said, Hoc agite, yet & illud non omittite, and commends the office of Iustice of peace of high honour and repute.

They are of two sorts, good and bad; the good he will reward and [Page] prefer, being as capable of his favour, as any about him whomsoever; the farther off in distance of place, the more desert, and his providence must reach to the end of his limits; the good are industrious; the bad idle; contemplative Iustices are of no use. And for the number, as many hands make light work, so too many make slight work.

As to the charge, he will but repeat what he hath said heretofore, Lectio lecta placet, decies repetita placebit, anent Recusants and Papists, my greef when they increase; there are three sorts of Recusants.

The first, such as will not be themselves, but their wives and families shall be, and they shall appear at Church sometimes, inforced by Law, or for fashion; these are formal to the Law, and false to God.

The second sort are Recusants whose consciences are misled, and therefore refuse the Church, otherwise peaceable subjects.

The third are practising Recusants; they will force all persons under their power, and infect others, to be as they are Recusants; these are men of Pride and Presumption.

His opinion can bear with the person of a Papist so born and bred, but an apostate Papist h [...] hates, such deserve severe punishment.

He is loth to hang a Priest for Religion and saying Mass, but if he refuse the Oath of Allegiance, which is meerly Civil, he leaves them to the Law, against whom it is no persecution, but Iustice; and the like against those Priests that return from banishment; such also as break Prison; they can be no Martyrs that refuse to suffer for their conscience; Saint Paul would not go forth, when the doors were open, and Saint Peter came not out, till led by the Angell of God.

Then he concludes with the Ordinary charge against the numbers of Al [...]-houses; too frequent buildings in and about London; and also the extreme resort of the Gentry to the City; bids them countenance the religious Clergy against all Papists and Puritans, and God and the King will reward their service.

Let us remind Scotland, It was eight years since the Marquess of Hun [...]l [...]y had been excommunicate; upon hopes from time to time of his conformity and reconcilement; but increasing insolencies was lately committed, and as soon inlarged by the Chancelour; underhand favouring too much the Papists. The Church complain hereof to the King, the Marquess posts to England to palliate his displeasure, but a Messenger meets him at Huntington with command to return him home to Justice. Yet here he staies, until he receives new authority to appear at Court, where he humbly submits and offers to communicate; But being contrary to the Canons before absolution, a great debate followed, how to hazard him to the Church of Scotland, [Page] lest by the way, he should recant, and indeed, the King evermore endeavouring to rectifie his conscience, and to recover him to be a Proselyte.

The adventure was thus pieced, the Bishop of Catnes now at Court, must consent in the name of the Scots Kirk, for the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury to absolve him, and the Form new devised so to do, in respect of the correspondency of that Church with England.

The Scotish Church hears of this, and interprets that Act as an usurpation upon their Rites, which the King is fain to excuse in a long Letter to satisfie that curiosity; and lest he should seem to take upon him to palliate so great a presumption of himself onely. The Arch-bishop also gave his Reasons in writing, without intrenching upon the independencies of so free, absolute, and intire Authority of Sc [...]tland.

And withall, Huntley come home, must supplicate that Assembly, now convened at Aberdene, for their confirmation and his submission, which was solemnly performed.

And because it was about the end of the General Assembly, we shall shut it up with inserting such Articles as may enlighten the Reader to the knowledg of the Kings elaborate care and wisdom, in reducing perverse Jurisdiction to this moderate issue, in conformity to the Discipline of the Church of England, by which we may conclude the evident signs and hopes of a full recovery in time from their peevish Hierarchy, which had been prosecuted in some measure, from the very time that this King took Government to himself, and brought it before his death to a semblable conformity with England, and might so have prospered to perfection, had not their and our sins since set a period to us both.

1. That for more reverence of the holy Communion, the same should be celebrated Kneeling, which always had been standing.

2. Not to be denied the Patient desperate sick in his Bed with three or four of religious conversation to communicate with him.

3. The Sacrament of Baptism not to be longer deferred, than the next Sunday after the Birth, and in necessity, in a private house by the Minister, and publication thereof the next Sunday in the Church.

4. That the inestimable benefits received from God, by our Lord Jesus Christ, his Birth, Passion, Resurrection, Ascension, and Sending down the Holy Ghost, having been commendably remembred at certain days and times by the whole Church of the world; every Minister upon these days should therefore commemorate the said benefits upon those set days, and to make choice of several pertinent Texts of Scripture to frame his Doctrine and Exhortations thereto.

And because Confirmation after Baptism stuck in their stomachs, [Page] and indeed the King was unsatisfied therein, terming it a meer Hotch-potch, and not clear to his apprehension. But yet thus much was concluded, That seeing the Act of Confirmation of Children is for their good Education most necessary, being reduced to the primitive integrity, the Minister shall catechize them after eight years old, to rehearse the Lords Prayer, the Belief and ten Commandments, with Answers to Questions in the small Catechism used in the Church. And that the Bishop in their Visitations shall bless them with Prayer for their increase of Grace and continuance of Gods heavenly gifts with them.

So much was done indeed, and presented humbly to his Majesty, with some Reasons, why the same being novel to them, were not as yet inserted with the Canons, which the King did not then otherwise press, as resolving to effect his desire, at his coming personally into that Kingdom, when his presence should satisfie with Reasons all scrupulous aversion.

About this time happened that difference in the Family of Sir Thomas Lake, one of the Secretaries of State, between his Wife and Daughter, and the Countess of Exeter, which involved him and his into ruine.

This Lake was a learned Gentleman,Sir Th: Lake hisstory. brought up under Sir Fr: Walsingham, (that subtil Secretary of State) as Amanuensis to him. And after good experience of his deserts, was recommended to Queen Elizabeth, and read to her French and Latine, in which Tongues, she would say, that he surpassed her Secretaries, and was so imployed all her time, for he was reading (as to quiet her spirits) when the Countess of Warwick told him, that the Queen was departed.

But not long before she received him Clerk of her Signet. And he was chosen by this State, in that Place, to attend King Iames, from Berwick. And so sufficient he was, that the King made use of his present service, in some French dispatches by the way that he came hither; which indeed Secretary Cecil had reason to resent, as too much trenching on his Office.

And therefore craveed leave of the King, that he might not attend, beyond his Moneth, to prejudice the other Clerks, which was excused, and he kept still at Court.

These sufficiencies of his, enabled him in these times of gaining with much repute and direct honesty to purchace large possessions.

And now the place of Secretary was joyned in two Principals, Sir Ralph Winwood and him, and so he continued with honourable esteem untill malice and revenge, two violent passions over-ruling the weaker sex, concerning his Wife and Daughter, involved him into their quarrel, the chief and onely cause of his ruine.

[Page]He had by his Wife Sons and Daughters; his eldest married unto Baron Rosse (in right of a Grand-mother) the Son of Thomas Earl of Exeter, by a former venter; this Baron therefore and upon Lake's credit, was sent Ambassadour Extraordinary into Spain, Anno 1611. in a very gallant equipage, with hopes of his own to continue Lieger, to save charges of transmitting any other.

In his absence, here fell out a a deadly feud, ('tis no matter for what) between the Lady Lake and her Daughters Step-mother the Countess of Exeter, which was particularly described in a Letter, and sent from England to me at Madrid in Spain, and because of my near relations in that Ambassie, I shewed the same to my Lord Ambassadour.

A youthfull Widow this Countess had been and virtuous, the relict of Sir Thomas Smith Clerk of the Council, and Register of the Parliament; and so she became Bed-fellow to this aged, gouty, diseased, but noble Earl, and that preferment had made her subject to envy and malice.

Home comes the Lord Rosse from his Ambassie, when he fell into some neglect of his Wife and her kindred, upon refusing to increase allowance to her senttlement of Jointure, which was promised to be compleated at his Return.

Not long he stays in England, but away he gets into Italy, turn'd a professed Roman Catholick, being cozened into that Religion here by his publick confident Gondamore.

In this his last absence, never to return, the Mother and Daughter accuse the Countess of former incontinency with the Lord Rosse, whilest he was here, and that therefore upon his Wifes discovery, he was fled from hence and from her Marriage-bed, with other devised Calumnies, by several Designs and Contrivement, to have impoysoned the Mother and Daughter.

This quarrel blazened at Court, to the Kings ear, who as privately as could be, singly examines each party. The Countess with tears and imprecations professes her innocency; which to oppose, the Mother and Daughter counterfeit her hand to a whole sheet of paper; wherein they make her with much contrition to acknowledg her self guilty, craves pardon for attempting to impoyson them, and desires friendship for ever with them all.

The King gets fight of this, as in favour to them, and demands the time, place, and occasion, when this should be writ? They tell him, that all the parties met in a Visit at Wimbleton, (the Earl of Exeter's house) where in dispute of their differences she confessed her guilt, desirous of absolution and friendship, consents to set down all under her own hand, which presently she writ at the [Page] Window, in the upper end of the great Chamber at Wimbleton, in presence of the Mother and Daughter, the Lord Rosse, and one Diego a Spaniard, his con [...]iding Servant.

But now they being gone, and at Rome, the King forthwith sends Master Dendy (one of his Serjeants at Arms, sometime a Domestick of the Earl of Exeter, an honest and worthy Gentleman) post to Rome, who speedily returns with Rosse and Diego's hands, and other Testimonials, That all the said accusation, confession, suspitions and Papers concerning the Countess, were notorious false and scandalous, and confirm it by receiving their Eucharist, in assurance of her honour and his innocency.

Besides several Letters of her hand, compared with this writing, concluded it counterfeit.

Then the King tells the Mother and Daughter, that this writing being denied by her, their testimonies as parties would not prevail, without additional witness.

They then adjoyn one Sarah Wharton their Chamberess, who they affirm, stood behinde the Hangings, at the entrance of the Room, and heard the Countess reade over what she had writ. And to this she swears before the King.

But after a Hunting at New Park, the King entertained at Wimbleton, and in that Room, he observes the great distance from the Window to the lower end, and placing himself behinde the Hanging, (and so other Lords in turn) they could not hear a loud voice from the Window; besides the Hangings wanted two foot of the ground, and might discover the Woman if hidden behinde. The King saying, Oaths cannot deceive my sight. And the Hangings had not been removed that Room in thirty years before.

Nay, more than all these, the Mother and Daughter counterfeit a Confession in writing of one Luke Hotton, that for fourty pounds the Countess should hire him to poyson them, which man, with wonderfull providence was found out, and privately denies it to the King.

And thus prepared, the King sends for Lake, whom in truth he valued, tells him the danger to imbarque himself in this quarrel, advising him to leave them to the Law, (being ready for a Star-chamber business.)

He humbly thanked his Majesty, but could not refuse to be a Father and a Husband, and so puts his Name with theirs in a Cross [...]Bill, which at the Hearing took up five several Days, the King sitting in Iudgm [...]nt. But the former Testimonies and some private confessions of the Lady Rosse, and Sarah Wharton, which the King kept in secret, made the Cause for some Days of Triall, appear doubtfull to the Court, untill the Kings discovery, which co [...]cluded the Sentence, pronounced upon several Censures, Lake [Page] and his Lady fined ten thousand pounds to the King, Anno 1617. five thousand pounds to the Countess, fifty pounds to Hutton, Sarah Wharton to be whipt at a Carts-tail about the streets, and to do Penance at St. Martin's Church. The Lady Rosse for confessing the truth and Plot, in the midst of the Trial, was pardoned by the most voices, from penal Sentence.

The King (I remember) compar'd their Crimes to the first Plot of the first sin in Paradise, the Lady to the Serpent, her Daughter to Eve, and Sir Thomas to poor Adam, whole love to his Wife (the old sin of our Father) had beguiled him; I am sure he paid for all, which as he told me, cost him thirty thousand pounds, the loss of his Master's favour, and Offices of honour and gain; but truly, with much pity and compassion at Court, he being held an honest man.

Discontent among the Roman Prelates put the Ach-bishop of Spalato, Mark Antonio de Dominis, Bishop of Spalato com [...]s into Englan [...], flies back again and [...] miserable. to seek his peace against that Sea, by sundry overtures unto several Princes in Italy, and otherwhere, Spanish and French; at last, he becomes tainted with some opinions heretical to them, which either he believed, or took up such Tenents for the present time, to prepare him a fitter Pros [...]lyte hereafter: and finding no safe footing from the fury of the Pope and Conclave, he steals over into England, and to please the King, pretends Conversion by his Majesties Works of Controversie, and quarrels with Bellarmine; however, it was though fit to bid him welcome, and to prefer him to a Deanary of Windsor, and for better support, with the Mastership of the Savoy.

This vext Count Gondomore, the Spanish Lieger, who intending to tempt him, (as the Devil does his creatures) with a bosom sin, that which they love, had intelligence of his innate disposition to avarice, with this he tampers afar off, and with leave of his Master, invites him to turn again, from this so mean allowance, and take preferment in the Conclave, to be Spain's Pensioner there, (as almost all are) with this assurance of the Cardinal's Cap, he was cozened into the Court of Inquisition, and so to the Gaol, where he ended his days with grief, and died a Protestant Professor, in malice to the Papist, or rather of no Religion.

The late sudden Murther aforesaid of Henry 4. Marquess D' Ancre murdered in France. of France, left the Sovereignty to Lewis his Son, and his minority to be supported by his Mothers Regency, and she in miscarriage, through too much affection to her Favourite the Marques D' Ancre (a mechanical Florentine, her Countreyman) occasioned the Princes of the Bloud to seek their freedom by force, which lasted not long, after their several imprisonments; for the quarrel rising high, and D' Ancre busied abroad, they plotted their business by a bold Captain of the Gens d' Arms, De Vitry, and effected upon D' Ancre's [Page] person with a single Pistol, at the instant, when he returned to the Pallace, the Loure in Paris, and his Corps had no other Balm for their Burial than his own bloud, being dragg'd about the City by the Peoples rage, till the dis-jointed limbs were left for Ravens.

King Lewis was young, and engaged before in his Mothers quarrel, but this accident taking fire, as the Princes would have it, soon won their weak Sovereign on their party, and in policy perforce, he owned the Action, as the most convenient Iustice, for quieting the Differences, and so the Government taking hold on this occasion, turn'd to the other side, and had the better of the Queens Faction, she being afterwards led up and down the King's Army under oversight, as a Prisoner, but shew'd to the People as if reconciled to her Son, the chief Mover, having paid the account upon the execution of his person.

This for the present, which lasted by fits,Q. Mother flies out of France. for some years, as her Faction took breath, untill that excellent Engeneer of State-policy, Cardinal Richelieu had put her into a jealousie of her own safety at home, and so opened a Gap, whereby (as in stealth) she might get loose out of the Kingdom: but Sovereigns leaving their Subjects are seldom sent for again, and after much turmoil and tampering with several States, and Italian tricks, she ended her days very poor in Germany in the City of Collen.

And Richelieu succesfull in all his policies, settled that Nation to his death, in their due submission to Sovereignty, which broke out afterwards Anno 1652. into like examples of former miseries.

The blessings of Peace and Plenty enthroning this King, The King's journey into Scotland. resolved him for a leasurely Expedition into Scotland, in the opening of the last Spring, which was not performed this Summer season, partly to make good his promise, when he took leave of his native Countrey, to give them a Visit after some time of settlement in his new Inheritance. And in some policy it was hastened now, to be out of the way of address from the Emissaries of the French, (that unstable State) now in the height of diffension, whilest King Iames and his Court were thus refreshed, from affairs and business here, in as much prudence and splendour as the consideration of this Journey was necessary to the Design; Hist. Gr. Br. p. 104. which our Historian (with his Pasquil observations) [spends in ridiculous Riot.]

But it was indeed, by his presence, to warm those cold Countreys with the beams of Majesty, and with his precepts to warn that rebellious Nation of their feuds by example of their old French friends fresh miseries; to settle the spirits of the factious Presbytery, in obedience to Episcopal Hierarchy; to pass some Bills and Acts of Parliament; to regulate the exacting [Page] powers of some Officers in trust; to give grace to the humble, and content to all.

And forthwith a Proclamation was advised in Scotland, and there published, of the Kings Solomon- like instinct, to visit that Kingdom, and therein gave them assurance, not to alter the Civil and Ecclesiastical Estate, but by reforming abuses in Church and Common-wealth, and advised them to all accommodations to bid him and his welcome.

These directions were accompanied with others of State, and amongst them for repairing and orderly adorning his Chapel: and Officers sent out of England with necessaries, and some Portraits and Pictures of the Apostles carved, for the Pews and Stalls; but the People exclame at such sights, That Images were to be set up; The Organs were come before, and after comes Mass.

The King was angry at their ignorance, and sent them word to distinguish betwixt Pictures intended for Ornament and Decoration, and Images erected for Worship and Adoration. Resembling such men to the Constable of Castile, who being to swear the Peace concluded with Spain, and to be performed in the Kings Chapel, where some Anthems were to be sung, desired, that Gods Name might not be used therein, otherwise, he would be content with any thing else. So the Scots Kirk can endure Dogs, Bears, and Bulls, nay, Devils dressings, to be figured in Churches, but not the Patriarchs nor Apostles.

He come to Berwick in May, and there it was advised to prorogue the Parliament to Iune 13. which gave the King time to progress through the Countrey, making his entry in the special Burghs and Towns after the most magnificent manner, and welcomed with all the expressions of cost and glory, that ever that poor Nation had been put unto, that some effects might seem to make good the Scots Rants of their gude Countrey.

And because it hath been since surmized that nothing was acted there, in order to the service of that Nation; we shall trouble the Reader with some particulars.

The King enters their Parliament,The Kings Speech in the Parliament of Scotland. with Rules for establishing Religion and Iustice, and a regard to the Ministers of both; for notwithstanding the many years Profession of Reformation, numbers of Churches remained unplanted, and those that were, wanted maintenance; advising that Commissioners might regulate a local stipend to each Minister.

He remembred them of his continual care and pains heretofore and since, for placing Iustices and Constables, to preserve the Peace, and execute Laws, which he said had been neglected by some, by the small regard shewed unto them from others of higher rank. But as he would have them know, such Officers to be of honourable [Page] esteem, so none could deserve better at his hands than those that countenanced them; and those others, Enemies to the Crown and quiet of the Kingdom.

That he had long endeavoured to civilize men from their barbarous customs, having made some progress, by remove of the persons, or by extinct of their Feuds, and in place thereof established Civility and Iustice, and to his lives end, he would never leave to do his best endeavours, untill he might say of Scotland, as one of the Emperours said of Rome, Inveni lateritiam, relinquo marmoream. Indeed the Countrey affords more of Stone than Tile-shard.

They come to vote Commissioners upon the Articles of Religion, whom the King commends, they refuse; and evermore Officers of State are suspected partial for the King, and therefore they admit but of three, the Chancellour, Treasurer, and Clerk of the Rolls.

They begin with the chiefest Article, First Article for the Kings Prerogative. That what soever should be concluded by the King and the Bishops in matters of external policy, should be an Ecclesiastical Law. Not that the King was against the advice and assistance of a competent number of the grave and learned Ministers, but to be over-ruled (said he) as in your former General Assemblies, I shall never agree. The Bishops must rule the Ministers, and the King govern both in matters indifferent, and not repugnant to Gods Word, and so that Ariicle was formed and passe [...].

Hereupon the Ministers mutiny, that their Discipline should be formed to all the Ceremonies of England; and Struthers in his next Sermon condemning all those Rites, prayed God to save Scotland from the same sin. And thus set on they frame a Protestation to the King in Parliament.

First, against that Article, and therein if remedy be not provided, they shall be forced to other effects, For freedom of their Church, and discharge of their Consciences.

Their Reasons they reduce into Arguments.

1. Their Reformation, That the purity in Doctrine, Sacraments, Discipline and Order thereof, hath been acknowledged rather as a Patern to be followed by all Reformed Churches of Europe, than now to be put to seek it from such as never attained to it.

2. That their General Assemblies formerly established to constitute and make Canons will be utterly overthrown.

That hitherto their Church, nearest the divine and Apostolical Institution, and so hath lived long without Schism and rent, may now by introducing Novelties be miserably overthrown.

That his Majesties gracious assurance by his Letters this last Winter against all alteration of Religion, and so hath been intimated in Pulpits, when Rumours were dispersed of intended conformity with England.

[Page]These they pray may be sufficient to warn the King and Parliament, not to oppress their poor Church, and give grief to millions of men, that otherwise would rejoice at his Majesties presence. And so they resolve, that rather than submit, they are prepared to incur censure, and to oppose.

This Protestation they commit to the most mad-headed man amongst them, one Hewet; but some of the wiser sort, fearing the success, desire the Arch-bishop of St: Andrews to suppress it.

He meeting Hewet, desires to peruse it, and blaming the man, keeps the Writing, the other seizes the Paper, and thus striving in the next Room, the King hastily comes out, and sternly fronts the Fellow, who falls down of his knees, and craves pardon for the Protestation, professing never more to meddle therein.

However, the King wisely suspecting some others of the same Phrensie, for the present commanded that Article of the Kings Crown-prerogative not to be read, till the policy of a fitter time; the rest of them being read and concluded, the King takes his leave and loving farewell.

But the Bishops had warning to summon some principal Ministers, and with them to meet him at St. Andrews, 10. of Iuly, where the King greets them.

How great my care hath been for the Church (saith he) since I had authority and power to perform it,Five Articl [...]s proposed by the King. your consciences cannot but confess; I need not tell you. I seek no thanks, God knows my heart, for true worship of him, and decent order in the Church; whilest I resolved of this Iourney to visit you. I gave you warning to insert some Articles into your Acts of the Church, those were anniversary commemorations of Christ's blessings to man, as his Nativity, Passion, Resurrection, Ascension and Descent of the Spirit; another, for private use of both Sacraments; a third, for reverend administration of the Communion; and a fourth, for catechising and confirming children by Bishops. I was answered, that they had not been moved in any of the Churches Assembly, and so I was silent. And lately desiring but my Prerogative to be declared, in making Ecclesiastical Laws, ye mutined, and protested against me. But I pass all, amongst many other wrongs frequent from you.

The Errand I have now, is to know your Arguments, why the same ought not to be granted? Reason shall ever guide me; and if my Demands are so, just, and religious too, I will not be refused nor resisted. And with that browing upon them with a full eye, majestical and stern, They all fell down on their knees.

The King went on, It is a power innate, a princely special Prerogative, which Christian Kings have, to order and dispose external things in the outward policy of the Church, as We with our Bishops advice shall think [...]it. And Sirs, (said he) for your approving or disproving, deeceive not your selves, Me ye shall not. I will have my Reason not opposed.

[Page]They were all becom new men, humbly besought they might confer, and so return an uniform Answer, which in two hours space produces a Retition for a General Assembly, wherein all his Majesties Articles being proponed,Produces a Petition. they might with common consent be received. I, says the King, but what assurance have I of their consenting? They protested, that they saw no reason to the contrary.

But if it be otherwise, and your reason now, be none of theirs then, the Articles refused, my difficulty the more; and when I shall hereafter put my own Authority in use, I shall be pulpited, a Tyrant, Persecutour. Ye were wont so to do.

All crying out, That none durst be so mad.

Yet experience tells me, (says he) that it hath been so; therefore unless I be sure, I shall not grant your Assembly.

They craved the Arch-bishop of St: Andrews to answer for them: but he refused, having been formerly deceived. At length they procured leave to assemble in November next at St: Andrews.

Simson that subscribed to the Protestation, writes to his Brethren those Articles, which he calls Tricas Anglicanas, the Letter-carrier was Catherwood, who for his insolency to the Kings face, was committed, and after banished; and Simson sent to Edenburgh Castle, where he lay till December.

And so the King returns to England, The King returns. by the West parts; and at Dunfres had his farewell Sermon by the Bishop of Galloway, which made the hearers heavy at their hearts.

The King gone home, the Assembly met, but willingly would have delayed their Conclusion of the five Articles, till they might inform their Flocks of the equity of them, and so they went away: which the King considers as an high contempt, and breach of their promise, and commands the Bishops of St: Andrews and of Glascow, precisely in their own persons to keep Christmass day next, preaching of Texts according to the Time, and to discharge all Modification, (advance) of stipends to any Minister for a year, unless onely to such as have submitted to the Articles, and in affection to the Kings service.

The Ministers thus curbed, and the Northern men being come up to Edenburgh for their stipends, complain of their Brethren, their pride and insolency, supplicate the Bishops to intercede and mitigate his Majesties displeasure, and so they did, and procured Letters from the King, for allowance of their stipends.

And Mr. Simson was now released,Simson released. professing his hearty reluctancy for opposing his Majesty, setting his hand to a Supplication which himself framed, with all submission. But his Brethren, not liking any submission, but to their Assemblies or Synods, (his, being to the Council) he sets out an Apologetick, [Page] glossing upon each word of his Confession, and concludes, That whatever frailty or weakness had befallen him heretofore, he hoped now to be like Peter, Qui ore negavit, & corde confessus est, and never to betray the Lords cause with Judas.

The Iesuits do even so, fast and loose; neither tongue, hearts nor hands can binde them, against their mental secret purposes. And yet there being some hope, that matters might amend for the Church, and their frequent Synods preparing for their better obedience; the Bishops procured the Kings consent to another General Assembly to be at Perth, in August the next year.

This royal Progress of pleasure into Scotland and back again, gave leasure to the King, and advantage to all Attendants, for preferment of their persons, or other satisfaction for their services, by the freedom of their Masters bounty, both to Scots and English.

Especially, to our new Favourite, now of two years growth in the Kings affection. This man George Villiers G Villiers [...] Favourite, Duke of Buckingham his story, De [...]cent. of an ancient Family in Leicestershire, and bears [...]. on a cross Gu. five Escalops Or. His father Sir George Villiers begat him 1592. upon a second venter Mary Beaumont, of noble extraction, whom for her beauty and goodness, he married. By his first he had but one Son, rising no higher in honour than Knight and Baronet, his disposition not court-like, and therefore injoying perhaps the greater greatness, self-fruition; yet in time he had preferment to the Government of Ulster Province in Ireland. The other Sons were three, and in order of Birth, but not in Preferment, Iohn was Viscount Purbech, George Duke of Buckingham, and Christopher Earl of Anglesey, and one Daughter Susan Countess of Denbigh.

We are told, [that he came over by chance from his French Travels,Court & Ch. K. James, and sought his Preferment in Marriage with any body, but mist of a Match for want of an hundred Marks] and so pieces him for the Court, (like the story of Demetas Caparisons) borrowing of each one by piece-meal, to put him forward for the Kings Favourite.

But the truth is thus, His Mother a Widow, was afterwards married unto Sir Thomas Compton, whose Brother the Lord Compton by chance falling upon a wonderfull Match for matchless wealth with the Daughter and Heir of Sir Iohn Spencer, Alderman of London, and her Father then lately dead, this Lord was Master of all, which was of more than credible, and so might be enabled bountifully to set up a Kinsman, without [other help or Alms of the Parish.]

It was plotted long before, and Villiers sent for, to the same purpose, by practice of some English Lords, to ballance with the Scots, who by the help of the last Favourite Somerset, and others [Page] of great affection with the King, had the better of the poor English.

There had been a private Intertainment of a Supper at Baynards Castle by the family of Herbert, Hertford and Bedford, and some others; by the way in Fleet street, hung out Somersets picture at a Painters stall; which one of the Lords envying bad his foot-boy fling dirt on the face, which he did; and gave me occasion to ask my companion, upon what score that was done? He told me, this meeting would discover. And truly I waited neer and opportune, and so was acquainted with the Design, to bring in Villiers, who was entred before.

He had need to be well backed, against enough that envyed his neerness, and aimed by any affront to discountenance him, until he made them know that his courage over mastered his sweetness. For having bought the place of Cup-bearer to the King, and taking the upper end of the Board at dinner before some other Waiter, which not his due, was told of it, and so removed; nor was it done with overmuch kindness; for indeed the other was Somersets creature, who urging a second incivility, Villiers gave him a Box on the Ear. For which the custome of Court condemned him to have his hand cut off. And which Somerset, as then Chamberlain, ought to prosecute the Execution, which he did. And here the Kings pardon, without any satisfaction to the other party, made him suspected, a budding Favourite. Who was indeed raised, with, or by Somersets ruine, so drew envy, from him as his competitor, and from others his Friends compartners in his fall, being then as one cast out of the passions of the King.

We shall find him come up degrees, and to stand firm in favour, to the death of this King, and his second Master till his assassination.

The King minding to shew his own power to raise him from nothing, and his will to advance him for nothing, the others study therefore was the Kings inclination, and so to leave on him, whose affection was sufficient to hold up his head. He waited hard and close, his first years rising; but having removed all the whole Line of Somersets lincks, (his Wives interests the Howards) being boldly fixed in his Masters favor; he would adventure to take leave, but not too long, to be absent. And so by degrees inured the King from his custome of overtyring his Favourites, and at last, fortifies himself, by raising outworks if in case of assault; His own mariage with an heir, the daughter of the Earl of Rutland, rich and Honourable, twisting himself and his issue by intermariages with the best and most noble.

For indeed the brouse boughs cut down, or removed to plain [Page] the stem. Our favorite appears, like a proper Palm, besides the discerning spirit of the King, who first cherished him, through his innate virtue, that surprized all men. Henceforth presermentsVilliers sudden great pre [...]erments. came thick upon him; for the next Saint Georges day after his initiation, brought him Knight Bachelour, and Gentleman of the Bed-chamber. At new-years time Master of the Horse, and Knight of the Garter, and that Summer in August 1616. Baron of Whaddon, and Viscount Villiers; the beginning of next year, Earl of Buckingham, and privy Counsellor, and this Summer in Scotland, sworn there also Counsellour of that State. At Christmass after (that favours might be recorded, Acts of time, and of affection too) he was created Marquess Buckingham and Admiral of England, chief Justice in Eyre, Master of the Kings Bench Office, and Steward of Westminster (places of profit) and Constable of Windsor Castle. The largest was Duke of Buckingham sent unto him by Patent into Spain, and last of all Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. And so have we sommoned him at once, with all these Titles, which came to him in time heretofore and after.

These accumilations might no doubt astonish the Kitchen stuff conceipt of Sir A. W. Benefits imbroydered without the least vacancy or emptiness,Court and Character of King James pa. to any others workmanship. The hearts of Princes once dilated with affection, cannot be satiable in the exercise of any narrow bounty, or little affection, choice and love, begets the Gift, which act becomes fomented, even to be in Love, with their own giving, and so to excesse.

And thus have we put together this great Man, who was pieced up by degrees and time.

He had many kindred, for his Family was ancient: Heraldry might blaze as large fields of his Pedigree as need concern any subject to prove; were a Man preferred to pensil his life, which I take boldness but to touch with shadows.

These were dispersed by time, into several Matches, with the Gentry, and what strange or new device was it in him to raise them, that were neer in blood (by Noble and worthy) waies as he did? He made his two Brothers Peers; his Mother & Sister Countesses, the one by Patent, the other by Mariage, the rest of the kindred by his countenance, got means to live like their Births being a race handsom and beautiful; Ime [...]n the females, descending of Villiers or Beaumont; either matched with Peers or with the Sons and heirs of Earls, or with Knights of plentiful condition; for he did not much strengthen his subsistence in Court, but stood there on his own feet; the most of his Allies rather leaned on him, than he sholdered up by any of them. And thus much, as a Preface to the History of him, hereafter during [Page] this Kings raign; wherein his actions are successively remembred.

But concerning his Mother, made a Countess. There are in England three sorts of honourable women;3 sorts of Noble women. by Creation, Descent, or Mariage.

1. H. 8. created Ann Bullen Marchiones of Pembroke, before he maried her. So was Susan Widow, the Sole Daughter of the Baron of Abergaveny, created Baroness de le Spencer, Cambden 63. 6. So also was the Lady Compton, wife of Sir Thomas Compton, brother to the Lord Compton, made Countess of Buckingham, with the see of twenty pound per annum, 18. Iac. And also the Lady Finch a Widow, created Viscountess of Maidstone, 21. Iacobi.

2. Noble women by descent, or to whom dignities descend as heirs, are said to be honourable by Tenure; or those Heirs whose Ancestors were seized of an estate descendable to them in their titles of Dukedome, Earldome, or Baronies, or Heirs to Ancestours summoned to the Parliament.

3. And lastly, Noble Women are these, married to a Lord or Peer of the Realm, though themselves, but in the State of Gentry.

Knights Wives are not of the Nobility. They are stiled Ladies by the courtesie of England, but not in Courts of Judicature.

So much for Noble Women.

In the Kings return out of Scotland, Occasion of the allhwance of harmless pastimes. the people took occasion to complain in common, and to petition in particular, That the freedom of Servants and Laborers, was extremely enslaved by their Masters pretended zeal and sanction against Idolizing (as was pretended) of such days as ancient custome from General Councils, and the Church of England reformed, even to that time▪ had appointed to be kept Holy. Whereby after the [...]olemnizing of Divine service, the Servants and Workmen, were not usual to discompany from their accustomed moderate Pastimes; such as the most rigid (heretofore) could not justly but admit.

The King, not so over-affected to his own sports, that the sense of the peoples sufferings, might take advantage by his Example, and so of Liberty in the like (for much of his most serious affairs, were shadowed from the vulgar, nay from the observing Politicque, by his own publick Pastimes.)

But in truth it came to be a business of consequence, to consider, how the intemperate zeal of our then rigid Reformers, (to countenance their own design of deforming) strook at higher powers, through the peoples sides, in many matters, so in this also.

[Page]For at first these pure conceited Men, quarrelled at the name of the Holy seventh day, called then, as of old, Sunday, which they would have named Sabbath, and thereafter would have it observed levitically, so strickt, as not to gather sticks.

This being discussed in some Counties, the people forbore their Recreations. Then the Reformers took the like exceptions against the peoples lawful pleasures on Saints and Holy-daies, and at last against all sports and publick Pastimes, exercises innocent and harmless, such were Leaping, Dancing, Running, or any Mastery for the Gaol or Prize, May-pole, or Church-ale, as debauched Idols.

In some of these Pastimes several Counties excelled, and to entertain community with their Mirth, the Court Progresses, took delight to judge of their wagers, in their journey to Scotland, which the people observing, took occasion to themselves to petition the King in his return for freedome, and leave to be merry.

And thus by this means, this Mans [Monstrum Horrendum; the Church-mans Maskarado] was begotten, and brought to allowance by command, in print to justifie the people in their lawful pleasures, though upon the Sunday after service.

This year died Edw. Talbot, the 8. Earl of Shrewsbury, The death of Talbot E. of Shrewsbury. without issue; and therfore it descended upon George Talbot son of Iohn Talbot of Grafton, Esq by Katherine his wife, Daughter of Sir William Peters, heir male of Sir Gilbert Talbot of Grafton second Son of Iohn Lord Talbot, second Earls of Shrewsbury, after the death of Gilbert and Edward Earls of Shrewsbury without issue male, who was this next year 1618. admitted by King Iames the ninth Earl.

But this man dying also without issue, the inheritance descended upon the children of Iohn Talbot, brother to this George; which Iohn dyed and left issue Iohn now the eleventh Earl, 1652. He bears Gules, a Lion rampant, and a border engraled. Or.

Sir Walter Raleigh wearied with long imprisonment,Sir Walter Raleigh rsleased ou [...] of the Tower. and having there spent his time well in the History of the World, made his petition more passable to the King, whose love to learning granted him, now at last his Liberty; and not long after gave him leave to wander after a design to the Western world, where he had been in several Climates before. The common World wondering at this mans wit, who had a way to break Jests, though to hazard his head again, for in a jear, he said, That his whole History had not the like President, Of a Kings chief Prisoner to purchase freedom, and his bosome Favourite to have the Halter; but in Scripture Mordecai and Haman; meaning Himself and Somerset. To which he was told that the King [Page] replyed, He might dy in this deceipt, which he did, and Somerset saved.

But in truth, he had a reaching and roving mind from his first rise,His voyage to Guiana. and thereafter but a mean fortune, which he meant now to make up, out of Adventurers purses for Gold-Mettal, from a Mine in Guiana, one of the Countreys of America; upon no other ground to win belief but a pound of the Ore which he had from thence by the hands of Capt. Kemish his ancient Servant.

The King wondering at this man, why to hazard his future fortune upon the nice dispute with the King of Spain, whose Territory he must invade at his own perill of success, but yet gave him leave with his liberty, so be, that he broke not the Kings bands of Amity, which he had strickt rules and order to observe.

The French Lieger had been very earnest for his inlargement,French Ambassadour his Friend. with much affection to his deserts, and some design of Policy against Spain, wherein they two waded so far, as that the discovery came to the Kings ears (not without intrenching (by the by) upon his Majesties honour) and several commissions from France, presented to him, to fit him to that purpose, wherein he was warily watcht, till it should ripen for further tryal, and at the worst, back-friends were to be put aboard, to bring him back again.

And having got Commission,His Commission and thereupon a company of his own Countrymen they imbarque with him in a Voyage thither, with a compleat Fleet of twelve sail, and landed at St. Tomazo, a Town of the Spaniards, killed five hundred men, sacked and burnt it; of five of their Fleet, it may be said as of the old saying, They went up the River, and so came down again; for rhe Design being the River Oremque in Guiana to discover the Mine, at the foot of a Mountain, up in the Countrey they were opposed by the Inhabitants, Spaniards and Natives, and so returned to their company.

This expedition was grounded at the first only upon Kemish information,and Expedition. the Miscarriages that might happen was alwaies cunningly resolved to light upon him, for satisfaction of the Adventurers; To answer it to the King, his intent was never to return; but by his own mannagement, and the obedience of his Company, over whom he had commission of Life and Death; he dreamed of nothing less then of a prosperous journey.

And now to frighten Kemish, Raleigh threatens him with the Kings displeasure,Hist. gr. Br. pa. 115. which to avoid, sayes the Storian [The poor man pistols himself] and so no tales could be truly told.

He dead, the most minded forced their own and his return [Page] home, which he intended any where else, and so some of their scattered ships with him, more like a Prisoner than Commander, came safe to Kingsale in Ireland, from thence to Plymouth, where no sooner on shore but he is taken into custody of Sir Lewis Stukely, T [...]ey return, and he in custody of Stukely Vice-Admiral of Devon, and conveyed to London, and so to the Tower, with whom he deals for a sum of money presently delivered to him to escape with him into France. Stukely yields to all, accompanies him by Water, where by the way to Gravesend (the Design of Stukelyes treachery in that, and so it prospered with him, being hanged afterwards for clipping Gold) they were seized,committed to the Tower. and he brought into the Tower, and not many daies after commanded to the Kings-Bench-bar at Westminster before the Lord Chief Iustice Mountague, where he was questioned upon the Records of his former Arraignment at the City of Winchester, and questioned at the K. Bench-Bar, and in answer to that, he was asked what he had to say to his Sentence to dy like a Traytor.

His short defence was, Of being lately intrusted by the Kings commission over the Lives of some of his Liege people; was soon replyed unto, as insufficient, and he had judgement to dy the next day by the favour of the Ax;and [...]xecuted. which he said (smilingly touching it) Was a sharp Medicine, but a sound Cure of all diseases, as it proved to him then in his Ague sit, in the Palace yard at Westminster Octob. 1618.

It was indeed common discourse then that Raleigh knew of no Mine,Hist. gr. Br. p [...]. 216. nor was Kemish assured that the pretended Mine was of Gold,Discourse co [...] c [...]rning his Design. but that the piece of Ore, which he presented Raleigh in the Tower, was falsifyed by dissolving some Gold therin, and he a better Chymist than Kemish for that purpose. That both of them designed it so to be, thereby cozening the world to get credit, and afterwards to deceive the King to purchase his liberty.

But when Kemish came safe from the supposed Mountain, without any Mine, whom Raleigh expected should miscarry in the way, and none but he could discover the deceit, then was he destroyed by death, but by whose hand it may be suspected, not by himself.

And truly these reports were more then [a false visard to outface the truth of his merit in that action, Hist. gr. Br. pa. 116. and thereby to weigh down Raleighs miscarriage.]

At his death he endeavoured to cleer some points which he knew lay on the Deck against him, His disloyal words of the K. undutiful language from Subjects of Sovereigns, take deeper root than the memory of evil Deeds; so did the Marshal Byron which cost him his head. Essex once told Queen Elizabeth, That her conditions were as crooked as her carcase, Manebat alta mento repostum.

[Page] He said,Anno 1618. his Accuser was a base runagate Frenchman, and perfidious, being sworn to secrecy, yet he betrayed.

Secondly, To have had often plots with France.

He confessed, That he had been often solicited from thence, and that he endeavoured to escape thither at twice, and the last time being got as far as Woolwich.

Thirdly, That the French Agent came often to him with Commissions from his Master; but it was not accepted.

Much he said of these as to the publick, and of more things as to private, which he did not deny, but traversed.

So then there were other businesses of a second charge, and confederacy, which made him lyable to a new Tryal; for Treason is so comprehensible, as to take in even circumstances, and out of them to make such conclusions as the jealousie of State shall interprete either for safety or Revenge.

But the prudence of the King would not hazard more, having sufficient upon the old score; and because he could not in Law be judicially called to accompt for his last actions, his former Attainder being the highest, and the last work of the Law, whereby he was Civiliter Mortuus; The King was inforced (except Attainders should become Privileges for all subsequent offences) to execute him upon the former.

And concerning Sir Walters recovery of Queen Anns infirmity, for which he should beg a Boon, viz. [the re-examination of the Lord Cobham by four Earls, and three Counsellors] It being urged by an Author in the innocency of his cause, and ingratitude of the King; I shall answer as to my knowledge by the relation of some Ladies of her Bed-chamber, and of her Surgeons and Physicians now living; That she was never cured of her disease, but by death that ends all Maladies.

We are told [That Sir Walter set out his design to the King, who discovered it to the Spanish Lieger Gondamore, the Countrey, Town, Men, Ships, Ordinance, and all, and he posted it to Spain, thence to the Indies, before that Raleigh could get out of our River] and yet for all these tidings, supplies were not come to defend the Town Tomaze.

We will confess that all these exceptions may be had under Sir Walters hand, purposely so writ by him, to excuse the weakness (or wickedness) of the event. For the truth is, the design though hatcht in a corner, was published on the house top, to purpose Contributers, otherwise he must conclude them Madmen or Fools. Nay, I can produce under his hand and seal with a blank (for he left a hundred) for other Adventurers to follow him, for which each one gave fifty pounds to his Lady, and therein was set down as much as our Historian fathers upon the King to Gondamore.

[Page]And that his own Conscience was satisfied that he deserved death before he was brought up Prisoner from Plymouth, and so to indeavour his escape from Tryal; see but the close of his own Letter to Buckingham.

It was (saith he) that last severe Letter from the Lords for my speedy bringing up, and the impatience of dishonour that put me in fear of my Life or perpetual imprisonment, which animated me in my late and too late lamented resolution to escape, if his Majesties mercy does not pitty my age, and scorn the advantage of my guilt, if his Majesty does not make difference in offences, proceeding from a life-saving natural-impulsion without ill intent, and those of an evil heart,

And if that your Lordship do not vouchsafe to become my Intercessour, whereby your Lordship shall bind an hundred Gentlemen my kindred to honour your memory, and bind me for all the time of my life, which you shall beg for me, to pray for your prosperity, and to remain,

Your Lordships most humble Servant, W. Raleigh.

As to the value of that worthy Gentleman (from whose descent of blood I am no Stranger) certainly we may yield to him as much or more then is described by his Character,Hist. Gr. Br. p. 117. But then those excellencies, [natural wit, better Iudgement, and applausable tongue, &c.] might in his long time of recess by imprisonment (through disuse of men and business) become uncertain grounds to Fabrick such Designs as the natural man (not supplyed with inward grace) usually aims at, and therein is mostly deceived, such was he, his fate, and fall.

This year the King creates by Patent four Earls, Sidney Earl of Liecester, 4 Earls created for mony. Compton Earl of Northampton, Cavendish Earl of Devonshire, and Rich Earl of Warwick.

Having paid the price, a good sum for their honours; so earnest some are, and so ambitious of preferment, as what they cannot get by merit, they covet to purchase with money, an infection newly crept into the distribution of honors, not usual here with former Sovereigns.

The miserable condition of sinful man in sundry Examples of these present and of former times,A monstrou [...] murther in Cornwal. should mind us hourely to beg of God preventing grace, least we fall into Temptations of sin and Satan. Such have been the calamities of ages past, at present are, and will be to come; Stories of Theft, Rapin [...], Murthers, and such like.

[Page]One of wondrous note happened at Perin in Cornwall in September, a bloody and unexampled Murther, by a Father and Mother upon their onely Son, and then upon themselves.

He had been blessed with ample possessions and fruitful issue, unhappy only in a younger son, who taking liberty from his Fathers bounty, and with a crew of like condition, that wearied on Land, they went roving to Sea, and in a small Vessel Southward, took boot from all whom they could Master, and so increasing force and wealth, ventured on a Turks Man in the Streights; but by mischance their own Powder fired themselves, and our Gallant trusting to his skilful swimming, got shore upon Rhodes, with the best of his Iewels about him; where offering some to sale to a Iew, who knew them to be the Governours of Algier, he was apprehended, and as a Pyrate sentenced to the Gallies among other Christians, whose miserable slavery made them all studious of freedom, and with wit and valour took opportunity and means to murther some Officers, got aboard of an English Ship, and came safe to London; where his Misery and some skill made him Servant to a Surgeon, and sudden preferment to the East-Indies. There, by this means he got money, with which returning back, he designed himself for his Native County Cornwall. And in a small Ship from London, sayling to the West was cast away upon that coast. But his excellent skill in swimming, and former fate too boot, brought him safe to shore; where since his fifteen years absence, His Fathers former fortunes much decayed, now retired him, not far off to a Countrey habitation in Debt, and Danger.

His Sister, he finds married to a Mercer, a meaner Match than her Birth promised. To her at first he appears a poor Stranger, but in private reveals himself, and with all what Iewells and Gold he had concealed in a Bow-case about him. And concluded that the next day he intended to appear to his Parents, and to keep his disguise till she and her Husband should meet, and make their common joy compleat.

Being come to his Parents, his humble behaviour, suitable to his Suit of Cloths, melted the old couple to so much compassion, as to give him covering from the cold season, under their outward Roof, and by degrees, his travelling Tales told witn passion to the aged people made him their Guest, so long by the Kitchen fire, that the Husband took leave and went to bed. And soon after his true Stories working compassion in the Weaker Vessel, she wept and so did he; But compassionate of her tears, he comforted her with a piece of Gold, which gave assurance that he deserved a Lodging, to which she brought him; and being in Bed shewed her his Girdled wealth, which he said was sufficient to relieve her husbands wants, and to spare for himself, and being very weary, fell fast asleep.

[Page]The wise tempted with the Golden Bait of what she had, and eager of enjoying all, awaked her hu [...]band with this News, and her contrivance what to do; and though with horrid apprehension he oft refused, yet her pewling fondness (Eves Inchantments) moved him to consent, and rise to be Master of all, and both of them to murder the man, which instantly they did; covering the corps under the Cloths till opportunity [...]o convey it out of the way.

The early Morning hastens the Sister to her Fathers house, where she with signs of Ioy, enquires for a Saylor that should lodge there the last night; the Parents slightly denyed to have seen any such, untill she told them that he was her Brother, her lost Brother; by that assured scar upon his Arm cut with a Sword in his youth she knew him, and were all resolved this morning to meet there and be merry.

The Father hastily runs up, finds the Mark, and with horrid regret of this monstrous Murther of his own Son, with the same Knife cut his own throat.

The Wife went up to consult with him, where in a most strange manner, beholding them both in blood, wild and agast, with the Instrument at hand, readily rips up her own belly till the Guts tumbled out.

The Daughter, doubting the delay of their absence, searches for them all, whom she found out too soon; with the sad sight of this scene, and being overcome with horrour and amaze, of this Deluge of Destruction, she sanck down and dyed; the fatal end of that family.

The truth of which was frequently known, and stew to Court in this Guise; but the imprinted Relation conceals their Names, in favour to some Neighbour of Repute and Kin to that Family.

The same sense makes me therein silent also.

We have heretofore observed the Constitution of the Dutch Netherlands in favour of Vorstius and his Heresies, Barnevelt his design fitted for Rebellion, preferred at Leyden 1611. where he had a way of Wit and cunning to work into the peoples dullness, led on by countenance of sundry the powerful Ministers of the Provincial States, that now his Tenents were preached for Orthodox, By faction of Arminianism. and believed as Gospel, being mixed with those of Arminius, whose repute (following his death) Vorstius took up, and for the Masters sake, were nicknamed Arminianism, then of a dozen years growth, infecting the Reformed Churches, almost in each Countrey published in print, or fetcht from thence, by taint of young Studients.

King Iames took care to prevent both, by burning the One, if they came hether, and forbidding the Other not to go thether.

Peace and Plenty with them bred up these Schisms into as [Page] many factions, the old way to work designs and changes in State, both of the Gown and of the Sword. The one mightily mastered by the wisdom of Barnevelt, the other commanded by the power of the Prince of Orange. The Prince of Orange his Opposite. This Barnevelt, was worthily descended, and well-bred; his travels abroad and Counsels at home, which his great age 70 years, gave time to ripen for excellent advice in the Magistracy and Council in the Army improved by five Embassies abroad, and thirty two Leaguers at home.

And it is counsel to some, whether conscience or ambition over-ruled his last actions; but he made himself Head of a Faction, which got the name of Arminians; a common custom with Opposers, to colour their own designs by laying infamy, or at least scandal upon their Adversaries; and this did the Prince do to destroy Barnevelt, for envy and fear. The other finding the pulse of the people to beat in a high feaver of that disease, was forced for the present to tack on that side, where he was sure to have hearts and hands to keep him up, in a desperate state, otherwise to be overwhelmed in the deluge of Destruction.

Thus in some condition to balance the Prince with assistance of several the Provincial States, of his opinion and jealousie; that if the power of the Prince, Generalissimo of their Armies, were not limitted, his greatness would ere long increase without coutroul. And therefore by way of Counsel (for pretended good of the Common-wealth) they did Confederate to leavy new companies, far from view or suspition of the Prince, whom Barnevelt kept close to business of the publick Council, with the States General; And so was it not discovered untill Midsomer, But then perfectly understood. The Prince in secret with his Kinsman Count Ernest, and the best of his Confidents, leaves the Court at Hague, gives Intelligence of his Design to Collonel Ogle Commander of the Garrison at Utrecht (the place of the others greatest strength) who on the sudden receives them in, surprize the Town and that State, in close Council. And at hand had the Garrisons of Arnhem, and others to master that part, and so other places of force, whom he suspected had favour with Barnevelts faction.

The snccess of this sudden expedition gave such authority to the Prince. that being returned in Martial manner, he seized Barnevelt, Grotius, Hogenbert, and other Confederates at Hague, and committed them to prison, upon pretence of Treason; his power with the Army and interest with the States might do this and more.

Not long after Lydenburgh, Governour of Utrecht imprisoned, stabs himself to the death with his Trencher-knife; being [Page] assured that no innocency would prevail against force and malice: Yet Hogenbert and Grotius had sentence of miserable mercy, in perpetual imprisonment; the last of them got loose, being conveyed out in a Chest, which his beloved wife plotted for his escape.

Barnevelt had friends with the State, and a strong faction with the people, and though his Sentence pronounced him to the Scaffold, yet it lasted a long Dispute, ere they brought him to the Block, which was not effected till May the next year. His Sentence indeed made his Crimes capital, as Author and Accessary of all former distempers in State, sum'd up to the height, and sufficient to hang a thousand.

The multitude of Believers begin to murmur; to appease them and prevent muteny, a National Synod was held at Dort, accompanied with sundry able Divines of several Reformed Churches. King Iames in principal sent thither, Doctor George Carlton Bishop of Landaff, Doctor Ioseph Hall then Dean of Worcester, Doctor Iohn Davenport Professor Regius in the University of Cambridge, and Master of Queens College there, Doctor Samuel Ward, Regent of Sidney College in Cambridge, and Doctor Balcanqual a Scotish man (in particular to give honour to that Nation.) But in truth, and in esteem they were all of them, (and so other Foreign Divines of this Assembly) men of incomparable Learning in the Mystery of Religion; but where appeared no Opponents,Dort Synod resolves against Arm [...] nianism. the Dispute found the less Difficulty, and their Conclusions for the present silenced the Pulpits.

Yet private men took pains to search the Distinction. And as Opinion (the rule of Conscience) binds every one, so from thence and since Arminianism hath its increase. The Divines of England, not being obliged to their opinions at Dort.

For first, This Synod was Foreign and National, and therefore as a Synod could not bind us in England, unlesse it had been ratified, and imposed by Publique Authority here at Home.

Secondly, It was not an Episcopall Synod, neither was any Bishop President of it, or actor in it (quatenus Episcopus) and therfore it was rather an Assembly of ptivate Divines than an Ecclesiastical Synod, according to the rules of antient Ecclesiastical Discipline.

Thirdly, Our Divines concur not absolutely in Judgement with the Netherlands in all their Synodical Conclusions.

For concerning that Article of Redemption, they write pag. 204. De mortis Christi pretiocissimo merito, it a Statuimus, ut nec primitivae, &c.

The reverend Divines of Great Britain in these words deliver four things.

1. That they accord with the primitive Church touching the Article of Universal Redemption.

2. That the promises of the Gospel ought to be proposed universally to all men.

3. That whatsoever is offered or promised in the name of Christ, to any person in the Church, is truly intended by God to be given unto them, in such sort as his Word and Promises do outwardly sound.

4. It is consequent upon the former, that the work of Redemption in respect of Christ his Oblation and intention therein is common to all mankind, although many by reason of their impediments do not actually receive them.

Now this resolution of Our Divines accordeth with the Articles and Doctrine of the Church of England, but none of the Foreign Divines of that Synod were of the same opinion, for they restrain this Redemption of Christ both in application and Gods intentional offer meerly and only to the Elect.

The Belgicke Confession is wholly confirmed by the Synod of Dort, as appeareth in the Book of the Synod pag. 329. But the 30, 31, and 32. Articles of this Confession teach, That the Presbyterian Discipline is of Divine institution; and that all Ministers have equal Authority and Iurisdiction, and consequently condemn Episcopal Government, and the Ecclesiastical Policy of Our, and all other Churches, which imbrace not Calvins Plate-form of Lay-Elders.

The antient custome of convocating Synods, or meeting of Divines for comp [...]sing Differences in Religion and Reformation of corrupted Discipline,Of Synods and Councils their initiation. was from the very four Apostles meeting at Ierusalem, concerning the Gentiles observing Moses Law; and from that example in a Province or City, the Primitive Bishops assembled at several times for 200 years then following.

The peace and unity of the Church in CONSTANTINE gave ease for many Churches to communicate over the whole Empire, and was called in his time, The Holy Synod, and not long after, The General and Oecumenical Council, though the Empire was divided, Eastern and Western; and afterwards amongst the Graecians from the Assembly of the five Patriarchs. And in those Kingdomes from the Unity of States obedient to the Pope in Ecclesiastical causes, which till the fifteenth Century of years so continued quiet, unless in that of Iohn Husse, and Ierome of Prague, from the Doctrines of Iohn Wickliff in England.

In the time of Richard the second King of England, who maried Ann the Daughter to Wincelaus King of Boheme. And though he had no issue by her, yet the conversion of Boheme from [Page] Popery may not unfitly be stiled the issue of her Mariage; for they that brought her hither, carried over Wickliffs Works, anno. 1382. to John aud Jerome; So then England was Grandfather of Reformation, Boheme the Father, and Germany the Son. Their Doctrines were against the Popes Supremacy as Antichrist, they condemned Transubstanatition. He translated the Bible into English, and was burned in Leicestershire, the first man that suffered the fire of English Martyrdome, at fourty five years of age.

About the year 1500. appeared the first occasion▪ amongst the Waldenses neer the Alps; In some Cantons of Boheme, called Picards; but both of them then rather despised than feared; their disciples were called Sub utraque, receiving the Sacraments with the Cup and with the Bread against the Papists. But their opinion of long time, rather amongst themselves than communicable.

In 1517. began Martyr Luther Luthers story an Hermite Fryer in Saxony; that Covent being usually imployed to publish the Popes indulgencies, he spoke against the excessive abuse of the pardons in ninety five Conclusions at Wittenburgh, which Iohn Thesel a Dominican opposed in others at Frankford of Bran [...]enburgh, by Ecchius also and Prierius.

And so controversie increasing matter of greater importance, they were faln to strengthen their weak Arguments with the Popes authority, as being the chiefest in the Church, and not able to err.

Martin proves him inferiour to a General Council, which he craves as most needful. Whereupon he was cited to Rome the next year, but in favour remitted to Examination of the Popes Legat Cardinal Cajetan at Ausburgh in Germany; who could not convince him, and in such policy, backed by some Princes, he appealed from the Popes Bull to a General Council.

The same occasion of indulgence collected at Zurick provoked Zwinglius Zwinglius a Canon to oppose Samson a Franciscan who preached for the pardons.

These Reformers and their writings were examined and condemned by the Universities [...] Lovain and Cullen; and the more opposing, the more increasing; The Pope remitted the dispute unto some Cardinals, Prelates, Divines and Canonists, and their books were condemned and burnt; And the Popes Bull resolving it, the effect followed first at Lovain and Collen.

Luther and his Scholars did the like by the Popes Bull and Decretalls at Wittenburgh, Exploded by the diet at Worms. and justified it by a long Manifest to all the World. And this caused a Diet at Worms, which examined him, and his answer moved the Elector and Others to favour his Doctrine; but was condemned as notorious Heretical by Imperial Edict. And by example so did the University of Paris.

[Page] Henry the eight King of England, born a second Brother, and therefore bred a Scholar, designed for the Arch-bishops See of Canterbury, writ a Book against Luther, and had his reward, and Title of Defensor fidei, though upon consideration of Lust and Policy, turned Reformer also.

The like Dispute and Measure had the Doctrines of Zwinglius, And at the Diet at Noremburgh. and the rest, and so these differences increasing, did necessitate another Diet at Norembergh, where disputes against the Reformers increased complaints against the Courtiers of Rome, and were reduced into Centum Gravaniana, and at the Diet at Spire as many more.

The horrid plots between the Princes and the Popes, and general distraction of Germany, and other parts of Christendome, and by the seeds of the Reformed Religion, Council at Trent resolvved upon. at last to amend all, or make it worse, the Pope was forced to consent to call a General Council at Trent.

The Elector of Saxony, and five Princes more opposing the Emperours Decrees, and fourteen principal Cities adhearing, they protesting against it by Manifest, were now first called Protestants, as from the Reformed Doctrine of Luther, and the rest.

At the Diet of Ausburgh, the Protestant Princes, fifteen, and thirty Cities, prefer their confession of faith of Luther, called from the place Augustine. The Cities also of Zwinglius doctrine, presented their Creed, differing onely in the Eucharist, and at home were opposed by their Neighbour Roman Cities, and quarrelled it by War; wherein Zwinglius in the head of a Company sacrificed his life; for whom Oecolampadius a Minister of Basil, of the same Opinion dies for Grief; and from these of the Cantons came the name of Gospellers.

The horrid troubles, discords and disputes amongst Christian Princes from the seeds of Reformed Churches,Council of Trent began 1545. controverted by several quarrels and Armies, and referred to several Diets, Colloquies and Meetings in Germany. It was then at last resolved of the holy Ecumenical Council of Trent (as the Roman Catholiques call it) Opening at Trent in Decemb. 1545. In the time of Pope Paul the third, Charles the fift then Emperour, Henry the eight, King of England, and Francis the first of France, and ended Anno 1563. Eight Bishops of Rome lived and dyed during that treaty eighteen years.

Our Countrey-man Campian that apostate, writes to the Universities in that Councils commendations.

The Synod of Trent (saies he) the older it waxeth the more it will flourish, good God what variety of Nations, what choice of Bishops of the whole world, what splendour of Kings and Commonwealths, [Page] what marrow of Theologues, what sanctity, what weepings, what Academical [...]lowers, what Languages, what subtilties, what infinite readings, what riches of virtues, and studies, did fill up that Majestical sacred place?

And so they amuzed the after age with counterfeit value of that Council, until that an Italian compiled a work of the particular ordinary Acts of that Council, wherein their practices to maintain the power of the Court of Rome, and to hinder the Reformation of their Eripus is plainly expressed. An excellent work written in the time of King Iames, and translated then into English 1618. if there were no deceit in the Writer (as I have heard it pretended) as that under hand he was a Protestant, and so partial.

Having now of late 1652.The effects of War from the Blazing-star. with admiration beheld the horrid broyls and civil Tumults (these thirteen years last past) in these Western Nations of Europe; how barbarously Protestants oppose, and massacre each other; whilest the Iesuit Projects, hiss at us by the ears. The Empire also, having gotten but a woefull booty by her more than thirty years wars, heretofore weakned her self with loss of six millions of Souldiers, besides others, men, women and children numberless. We in Great Britain having gained no better by our Civil Wars.

The sins of Subjects hastening untimely fate, the Church delacerated, our own Nations disjointed and dismembred in every part.

These considerations might move us to cry to Heaven for an end of such Tragedies. The mysteries whereof, by sundry writers take rise from the fearful blazing Star, which appeared this year 1618.

Longamontanus and Doctor Bambridge say, That this Comet appeared but twenty eight daies, for it was not observed in Denmark, nor in London before the eighteenth or one and twentieth days of November.

But Puteanus observed it the eleventh day, and so appeared thirty seven daies; foreshewing that first the more Northern parts of Europe, then Great Britain afterwards, should feel the smart for thirty seven years; even from 1618. until 1656. And not onely these Nations, but the effects were to end upon all Europe; and why? mary because they neglect the downfal of Antichrist, ruin of Rome, destruction of the Order of Iesuits, and State of Papistry; to make way for (I know not whose) fifth Monarchy, the Lion of the North.

The matter of these Comets is variously described, being (some say) composed of wind and lightning; hot and dry; exhaled by the Sun, into the highest Region; and there (bordering the Element of [Page] fire) is inflamed partly by it, and the whirling motion of the Heavens. And this matter, whilst imprisoned in the Earth, produceth Earthquakes.

If it ascend to the Middle Region, and be from thence beaten back, it turns to wind; if entring that Region, and being environed with thick Clouds, it flashes into Lightning; and if it passes to the upper Region, it becomes a Comet. And the common opinion promotes them as Signs and Causes, prognosticating some dreadful mischiefs to the World, whereof Brightman foreshewed; who from Joseph Scaliger of Leyden, got some Notes of Grebneer, concerning those prophetical numbers in the twelve chapters of Ezekiel; the three last of Revelation, and the last chapter of Daniel, with some passages of Hosea and Zachary.

But that excellent Manuscript of Johannes Bandensis de vita Grebnerii, declares all.

In which that learned Astrologer brings reasons Divine and humane, why Europe for the space of thirty seaven years following this fearful Comet, should feel the Mutations of flourishing States as siuce it hath lately hapned in Portugal, Swedland, Bohemia, Denmark; Great Britain, and Ireland.

However foretold; I am sure they and we feel the sad effects; and so have we mixed predictions, both Astrologicall and Divine.

Since the spiritual Sword was sheathed in England, which had lopt off the Serpentine heads of Heresie and Schism, It is more then wonder, how all these Sects in the whole world have with their prophecies (like devouring weeds) overgrown or choaked the seed of Gods word.

The Millenaries dream of a Personall Reign of Christ upon Earth;Heresies increase, How he shall descend 1666. and destroy all the Works of Dark [...]ess; that he shall keep quarter Sessions, and Goal delivery in his own person upon Mount Olivet; That in anno 1700. shall be the day of Iudgement,Opinions prophetical. and that Iudgement last other 1700. years, and a thousand other such like Fancies, made familiar to us, by sundry mad-headed Millenaries; lately printed in 1642. 44. and 45.

In anno 1650. comes another Opiniator, and tells us that this year saies he all Europe being in civil Wars which shall not cease till they have mustered an Army to destroy Rome anno 1666. Then that the Western Iews shall come into the Faith of Christ; and shall in anno 1683. convert the Eastern Iews (being the ten Tribes hidden invisibly in Tartaria and India) and these two Brethren shall ruin the Mahometan in anno 1698. aud so presently to be restored to Jerusalem, and then follows the dissolution of all things, and not before.

For my part (says one in anno 1650) I am a zealous adorer of [Page] Parliaments, nor desire to censure the actions of our Representative yet will not promise the term of an age to our Novel Government (as hs terms it) but thinks verily a change toward the old Model is neer at hand. A pestilent Prophet if such should come to pass, and the whole effects of Grebneer follow after.

And further this figure-flinger hath collected by way of Chronology upon the principal passages in (Ezekiel and Revelations) Grebneers and Bandensis prophecies; where he observes out of the fourth Viol poured out, to be in anno 1605. when the Protestant Champions, Pareus, Polanus, Whitakers, Perkins, Andrews, and K. James, did power light upon the Sun of the Gospel against Bellarmine, Stapleton, Campian, and other Papists, Revelations 16. 8, 9.

The fifth Viol (saies he) began powring out from anno 1630. by the Swedes in Germany 1632. then the English in England 1640. and combine against Papists 1648. and shall end in Romes ruine, 1666. and hath Scripture for that too, Revel. 16. 10, 21. and so goes on to the year 1830. where he leaves the faithful to expect Dooms-day.

There are other Writers strongly encounter these poisonous prophecies;Opposers of them. That there is no certain predictions; that Comets do not alwai [...]s fore-run such events; nor do Events follow Comets, and instance wonderful fruitful blessings after such signs.

Peucer a Germain, prognosticated upon the Comet in anno 1583 and contrariwise followed a most calm Summer; no Prince dyed; no war, and the Plague in Lombardy then ceased. Gemma Frisius sp [...]aks of as many good as bad effects.

And the Comet in Qu. Elizabeths time in Cassiopea, she being diswaded to look out of the Window upon it, she went forth to see it, saying, Jacta est alea, The Die is cast in Gods providence, not in Signes to be blasted with such beames, which had a ground in Nature, but no warrant in Scripture, to portend Mishap to States and Princes,

But that which is most observable to me, is this, The Scripture, which relates remarkable things, mentioneth not one Comet, Blazing Star, nor Ecclipse (but that miraculous Star at Christs birth) though no doubt many such happened in that space of three thousand five hundred years, but takes notice of other natural events less considerable; and yet from the other we infer, changes of Empires, nay, Church and Religion.

The Prophets never foretold of any Meteors, as not troubling their writings, with what could be foreseen by humane or natural means, For though Agabus, Acts 11. 18. foretold the Universal Famine twelve years after, in the time of Claudius Ceasar, yet he speaks not of the Ecclipse that fell then; for that might be foreseen of a natural cause, and was foretold by Astrologers, but not the famine [Page] which could not be inferred by Eclipse, nor by any Comet, to presage evil.

We grant natural virtues which reside in the Stars, besides enlightning; for they were created four daies after the light, to warm and give vigor and life, and such good things. And indeed those natural signs, are rather marks of Gods favour than anger, Stars do submission to Man; unhappy to none but such as believe them fatal and unlucky. Naturale est magis nova, quam magna, mirari. And that Comet at Christs birth, was Nero's death. Cometes summe bonus aparuit, qui praenuntius fuit, mortis magni illius Tyranni, & pestilentissimi hominis, saies Tacitus.

False Predictions prove true to them that fear them, that is our superstition. The other extreme is Epicurism, which admireth not Gods works at all. Continual custome without some change in natural things, becomes less regardful. God scatters intermixtures to force man to admire.

The sacred Chronology shews Gods admirable measures in the dispensations of time, more worthy than in the speculation of Astrologers. Nay even in humane History, more wise, than such Predictions; for certainly a good Historian deserves better than a bad Prophet.

After the appearance of this Comet,Q. Ann dies, the same year died Q. Anne. A lingring sickness and fulness of humours brought her to a dropsie, and for recovery, she for some years before frequented the Bath, with continual Physick. But the disease come to the height, she took leave of this life at Hampton Court, Her Corps brought from thence to Somerset House, part of her Jointure, and at her proper charge lately rebuilt and beautifyed to this lustre it appears now; and by her desire called Denmark house, from the name of that Kingdom, whence she had her Birth. And not long after with sumptuous ob [...]equies she was intombed at Westminster Abby in the chapel of Hen. 7. ordained for Royal Interments.

A good Lady she was,Her character. and Sister to the King of Denmark, fetcht from thence by King Iames with great affection to her person, and being a Stranger to these Kingdoms, with Providence designed for her future fortune, she med [...]ed the less in Matters of State. A matchless pair, drawing evenly in all courses of honour, and both blessed with fair issue, because never loose from eithers Bed,Hist. Gr. Br. p. 54. & 129. abating that blemish, basely abusing her excellent virtue [for loving my Lord of Pembroke] a crime as false as odious in the Author, who yet concludes [her character, a monument of virtue.]

I may not leave the Reader at random in the affairs of the Kirk of Scotland. Kirk of Scotland. How they boggled with the King when he was lost there, and so left them incorrigible, never intending [Page] to hazard his honour any more by granting General Assemblies. But he come home, unsatisfyed then, and after with their Synods, had sharply reproved them by Letters, which they excuse till one Assembly more might make tryal of their allegeance.

The King gratious to be reconciled, adventures to grant them another General Assembly to be held at Perth, August 25. But enters upon them with this caution.

That the affront offered his Royal self in the late meeting at Saint Andrews, The K. lette [...]s to them. gave him just reason to resolve never to grant any more General Assemblies, concerning the Churches policy; what he hastily desired, and what they did was to do him injury; He is yet over intreated by their Bishops to permit a new Convocation, who are now convened for the self same business, as before. Advising the Bishops not to admit the wonted, ignorant, and unruly multitude to overpower the more judicious. He having placed them overseers of the rest in the chiefest Rooms.

He dislikes not the advice of the whole, and the greater the consent the better his content. But matters of this nature (the Articles) may yet be enjoined without them, by his own authority, as an innate power by his calling from God.

Perswade them they may, to induce them by discretion in their duty to Him, wherein he will not be delayed, nor satisfied with their shifts, from their simple acceptation of those Articles sent unto them, the necessity whereof had better becomed them all to beg of him, than he to propone the practice upon them.

What and how many abuses were offered to him by the Ministers before he came to the Crown of England, can hardly be forgot, nor likes he much to remember, sufficient by their disobedience to have separated his affection from them; His patience for Gods cause forgiving and forgetting foul faults; endeavouring to force from them better effects of his best purposes. He wishes that he be no more provoked, nor the truth of God which they profess any longer shadowed, under the Cloke of some of their seeming Saintlike holiness, shaking hands and joining hearts with such persons as by their tenents against Majestracy, uphold Popery.

In sum, he craves God to witness on his part; and let the World now at last see, their dutyful obedience to their dread Soveraign; that so his care of their good may meet with zeal and affections in them, inferiour to no subjects of any Sovereign, and the glory of God and peace to his Church; which is his earnest prayer for them all, unto whom he now and evermore commends them.

James Rex.

July 1618.

[Page]We say not how much these might deserve from men holy minded, nor what tedious and weak Arguments, were reasoned; which needed such a defence, as was fain to be published in answer to a Pamphlet set out against them.Five Articles of Perth. But truly shame of their trifling, and fear to offend, produced these effects, from which yet in aftertime they fled.

That seeing the memory of all by-past superstitious and idolatrous worship of the sacraments by Papists is long since abolished;1. Kneeling at the Sacrament. Therefore in reverence of God, and due regard of so Divine a Mystery, and in remembrance of so mystical an Union, they think good, That the sacrament be celebrated hereafter meekly and reverently upon their knees.

If any Christian visited with sickness,2. Private communion. and thereby unable to receive the Holy communion at the Church; and shall declare in his conscience his sicknes deadly, & desire to receive the same in his house; the Minister shall not deny him so great comfort, there being three or four communicants to join with him, according to the Order of the Church.

The Parents nor Pastor shall not defer the Baptism of infants longer than the next Sunday after the Birth,3. Private Baptism. unless upon reasonable cause; nor shall they use private Baptism in their Houses, but when great need requires; and then the Minister shall not deny it, in the form as at Church, and the next Sunday declare the same, and that the infant ought to be received into Christs fold.

That according to the primitive integrity,4. Confirmation of children. care was ever taken, for educating of children and catechising of them, now altogether neglected. The Minister shall therefore catechise them, and in the rehearsal of the Lords Prayer, Belief and ten commandments, as in the Church-catechism is used and expressed. And afterwards the said children shall be confirmed by Prayer and Blessing of the Bishop, for the continuance of the grace of God in them.

That the inestimable benefits by our Saviours Birth, 5. Festival daies. Passion, Resurrection, Ascension and sending down the Spirit, hath been at certain times remembred by the whole Church of the World; And therefore the Minister shall observe those times, and form his Doctrine according to the Text purposely to be chosen, and proper for the day.

These were thus obtained, proclaimed and obeyed, and to this day called, the five Articles of Perth, ratified in Parliament there, the next year, and the last Parliament of this Kings time; when a monstrous storm thickned the face of Heaven, and the factious sort said, it was a sign of Gods anger against those Articles; others in derision of that sense, said, it was rather an approbation from heaven, like thunder and lightning at the giving of the Law to Moses.

[Page]The Bishops had much ado to go on to Action, for Papistry being a Disease of the Minde, and Puritanism of the Brain, the Antidote of both ought to be a grave and well-ordered Church, to reduce them either simply or wilfully erring.

But those that were refractory and factious, got the more of the mad crew, swarming to such to seek the Communion, and to receive their Doctrine, and those that would not, were excommunicate upon every ordinary and frivolous occasion.

Excommunication, Of Excommunication. the greatest Judgment upon Earth; that which is ratified in Heaven, a precursory or prelasory Judgment of CHRIST in the end of the World; and therefore not to be used irreverently, as an ordinary Process, derogate to Gods honour, and the power of the Keys contemtible.

It is urged indeed not so much for the thing it self, as for the contumacy: and as God's judgment seizes on the least sin of the impenitent; so Excommunication may in case issue out upon the smallest offence, and not upon the greatest, in another case.

But are these contumacies such, as that the party (as far as the eye of the Church can discern) standeth in statu reprobationis & damnationis, given over to final impenitence?

It is therefore to be wished, that this Censure were restored to the true Divinity and use in cases of weight.

To this purpose, a Bill was drawn in Parliament, 23 Eliz. the gravest Assembly of her time, and recommended by the gravest Counsellour, but for some politick Reasons was retarded.

We reade of three degrees of Excommunication in the New Testament, the first called Nidui, A casting out of the Synod, Iohn 9. 22. A separation from all commerce, society, eating or drinking with any person, from the Marriage-bed, from washing; and these according to the pleasure of the Judg, and quality of the offence, for thirty days or more: he may be present at divine Service, to teach or to learn others: if impenitent, his punishment was increased, doubling or trebling the Sentence for time, or to his death. His male-children were not circumcised. And if he died unrepentant, a stone was cast upon his Coffin, as deserving to be stoned: and was buried without lamentation or ceremony, and not in common Burial.

The second was called Cherem, A giving over to Satan, 1 Cor. 5. 5. It differed from the first degree, because it was not sentenced in a private Court, but in the whole Church, and Maledictions and Curses added out of the Law of Moses. At the publishing Candles were lighted, and when the Curses were ended, then the Lights were extinct, even so the Excommunicate deprived of the Light of Heaven. And thus against the incestuous person, 1 Cor. 5. 5. and against Himenaeus and Alexander, 1 Tim. 1. 20.

[Page]The third was named Maran-atha, viz. The Lord cometh: and was instituted (they say) by Enoch, Iud. 14. An Excommunication to death, and so the phrase, 1 Iohn 5. 16. There is a sin unto death, viz. to deserve Excommunication to death.

In the Greek Church, four degrees of this Censure.

1. Those, who were onely barred the Lord's Table, all other benefits of the Church they might; nay, to stand by and see the Communicants, and therefore called stantes.

2. But he is admitted into the Church, his place behinde the Pulpit, and must depart with the Catechumeni, such persons as were not yet baptized, and so might not pray with other Christians.

3. Degree, admitted but into the Church-porch, to hear, but not to pray with others, and therefore called Audientes.

4. Degree, such were onely permitted to stand quite without the Church, weeping and requesting those that entered in, to petition the Lord for mercy towards them, whence called Plorantes.

So then they say, Cain's Censure was the first, and the last Enoch's.

The three sorts were borrowed from the three sorts of uncleaness, which excluded people out of the three Camps.

1. Nidui, out of the Camp of God alone, those, defiled with the touch of the Dead.

2. Cherem, out of the Camp of God and Levi, defiled of an issue.

3. Maran-atha, out of all three Camps, God, Levi, Israel; defiled with Leprosie.

From the Iews, Greeks, and Latines, took the degrees of Excommunication.

The Emperour of the House of Austria, Of Bohemia, and the occasion of the Palsgrave accepting that Crown. with interwoven Marriages of Spain, (as aforesaid) had so settled the Empire from other interests, that no obstacle interposed their excessive ambition, but their jealousies of the Protestant Princes and States, whom they intend by degrees to reduce; and in over-doing of this, began the German miserable Distractions.

And because the Palatines too sudden accepting the Crown of Boheme was the immediat occasion, I shall let in the Reader into that story.

The Kingdom of Boheme for many hundred years past, enjoyed Sanctuary and Privileges, to impower the free election of their King, which is manifest in their Chronicles, in many Bulls of their Emperours, in their Kings Reversal Letters, and divers other Examples and Antiquities.

Sundry practices have been against this free Election, but never managed with more wiles than now.

[Page] Matthias the Emperour two years before, had adopted Ferdinand his Uncles Son his Successour, but not to meddle with Sovereignty of a King, whilest Matthias lived: however, Ferdinand thus far set forward:Ferdinands undue practices to be Ki [...]g. himself makes way to the Dignity of Boheme; and to prevent discovery from the incorporate Confederate Provinces, who have Voices in the Election; he calls a Parliament forthwith, onely of the States of Boheme, with express denunciation, that in the Assembly, nothing should be consulted, but the choice of a new King. The Electoral Provinces, nor their Deputies, nor Ambassadours, not being present, the Assembly was not legal.

The best of the States of Boheme therefore refuse to appear; against whom was denounced such threats, as frightened them with hazard of their Heads, and so was procured a pretended Election, (for the present) and his Coronation assented, by the main party, Catholicks.

The Crowning Kings in the life of another, was of late a sure policy, to unite those Kingdoms in the Austrian Family, contrary to the ancient custom of free Elections, which now, neith [...]r State durst oppose.

To this end therefore, and to suppress all future free Elections, (the Paladium of the Kingdom) Ferdinand secretly compacts with the King of Spain, without consent of the States, and before his Election, or pretence to any interest.

That the King of Spain, his Posterity, and Heirs, for want of Issue male of his Fathers Austrian Line, should succeed him in that Kingdom, contrary to the established Rules of Politicians, (that no elected King hath power to alienate, without consent of the States) this succession exposed them to the loss of all, and Religion also, and enabled him to enfeoff strangers into each Province, and into the inheritances of those Royally descended, high-born, illustrious Families; and by which, as was then suspected (and since came to pass) he should easily seize the Dignity of the Crown Imperial, and so abolish the foundation of the Golden Bull and Form of Empire.

This while, the aged Emperour keeps Court at Vienna, King Ferdinand at Gref in Steria: the Government of Boheme continues in such Counsellours as Matthias left there, chosen Ministers Catholick, who with the Arch-bishop of Prague endeavour to suppress the Protestants.

The States Protestants assemble themselves to redress these injuries,Protestant Princes [...]ee [...] redress. backt with some Forces which they brought with them, and were opposed by the Emperour's Faction, whom they overmastered and flung his chief Justice Slabala, his Secretary Fabritius, and others out of a Window of the Castle, down into the Court; and being done in choller, excused by Apology to the Emperour.

[Page]But on they go, raise force, and banish the Iesuit, and others of that Faction, whom they load with Complaints.

The Emperour Emperour in arms also. as forward, commits the command of two Armies unto Count Buquoy and Dampiere.

The Protestants counter-force with two Bodies, severally under the Prince of Anholt, and under Count Thorn and Mansfeilt, skirmishing with different effects.

Some Princes, King Iames and others interpose Mediations: and Ferdinand complains of the Bohemians obstinacy.

They remonstrate former, undue Elections, and allege:

That between a conditional King and his Subjects, Their grievances. there are reciprocal obligations; the one Obedientia, the other Promissa.

That he received the Scepter of the States, with thankfull remuneration, and royal grace to all; to satisfie the desire of every one, and to deserve their love, and swears not to meddle with Government whilest Matthias lives.

Notwithstanding he maintains the Wars of others, against the Bohemians, Moravians, and Silecians, and raised Terra Maria, against the Bahemians, sent for his own Army out of Steria, and pronounced the Protestant States of Boheme Traitors and Rebells, and declared himself Enemy to them all.

That he banished the old President Cesal, directs all Councils, corrects the Decisians and Decrees Imperial, disposes the actions of Buquoy, as King and Lord of all, and dis-inclines all means of Peace with Ambassadours of all Provinces, who met at Prague, carefully consulting to recover Peace.

That conditional elective Kings receive their royal Authority upon Oaths, Kings Election and Succ [...]ssion distinguished. their Sovereign power, Ex pacto, non ex jure: from the Subjects by concessions upon Covenant; not by succession nor descent, as other Kings, who are so before they swear to their Subjects, and do swear because they are Kings, but are not Kings because they swear, the one born a Prince without his Subjects, the other made and given to be a King.

The Oath of Elective Kings is, Et si (quod absit) in aliquibus Iuramentum meum violavero, Nullam mihi incole Regni, omniumque dominiorum unius cujusque gentis, obedientiam praestare delebant.

And the Chancellour usually tells them.

Quandoquidem viderunt Ordines, Majestatem regiam, pactis conventis stare nolle, non debere ait, ipsius Majestatem in malam partem interpetari, si Ordines obedientiam ipsius Majestate renuncient.

These things thus a doing,Mathias dies, Ferdinand succeeds Emperour. the old Emperour dies, and Ferdinand now King of Hungary and Boheme, and adopted Heir of the Empire, meets at Franckford, (by Summons) with the three Electors, Men [...]z, Collen, and Trevours; the other three Silecia, Moravia, and Lusatia, failing in their persons, sent their Representatives [Page] only, and so the Council chose him King of Romans, Anno 1619. which the State of Bohemia disclaim, and of his being Elector as King of Bohemia, he never actually possessing the Crown. Their dis [...]entions could not lessen his Election to the Empire, yet they swore never to receive him their King.

King Iames much troubled at these interruptions of Germany took himself to be much conce [...]ned in the hazard of the Protestant party,King Jame [...] how concerned. and the peace and danger of the Reformed Church, and therefore sent Hay, Viscount Doncaster, Ambassadour extraordinary to mediate with the Emperour and Bohemians; but to little purpose; The Emperour by means avoiding to receive him, knowing his errand, being to paliate what was grown too high for his Reconciliation, and removed his Gests, when Doncaster came but neer him; so whilest King Iames hunted at New Market; his Ambassadour coursed the Hare in Germany, but his business, through the crudity and raw initiation, took not the effect.

Ferdinand fearing the Success of Ingagements, insinuates with the Germain Princes, and had possessed the Duke of Bavaria, and others.

The poor Bohemians in this strait, and finding K. Iames an Inte [...]cessor, thought it policy to bring him into the List; for having published their Declarations and Reasons,Palsgrave elected King of Bohemia. pronounced the Election of Ferdinand to be invalid and nul; and the States of that Kingdom, and other Provinces, Elect by this Title The most Gracious, and the most Mighty Prince Lord Frederick, Count Palatine of the Rhine, and King of Bohemia.

In the mean time King Iames consults with his Council, diversly affected to this Design of taking or refusing. Amongst them, see what our Arch-bishop Abbot [...]ends to Secretary Nauton, not being able to come to Council.

Good master Secretary,

I have never more desired to be present at any Consultation,Arch-bishop Abbats Letter to Nauton. &c. My humble advice is, That there is no going back, but a countenancing of it against all the world, with ringing of Bells, and making Bonfires in London, so soon as it shall be certain of the Coronation. I am satisfyed in my conscience, the cause is just, having rejected that proud and bloody man, making that Kingdom not elective, and when God hath set up the Prince a Mark of honour to all Christendom, to propagate the Gospell and protect the distressed. I dare do not other, but to follow where God leads.

It is a great honour to our King to have such a son to be made a K. and me thinks I do in this, and that of Hungary, foresee the work of God; that by piece and piece the Kings of the Earth that [Page] give their power to the Beast, shall now leave the whore to Desolation as St. John saies.

Our striking in will comfort the Bohemians, honour the Palsgrave, strengthen the Union, bring on the Dutch, stir up Denmark, and move his two Uncles, Prince of Orange and Duke of Buillon, together with Tremvile a rich Prince in France, to cast in their shares, and Hungary I hope will run the same fortune, and for mony and means to support the War, Providebit Deus. This from my Bed; and when I can stand I hope to do better service.

Geo. Cant.

Sept. 12. 1619.

Some regret there was in the Palsgrave (as well might be) to act without the consent of the King of Great Britain, and whilst his Ambassadours were treating a Peace; but by perswasion of the Prince of Anholt, the Earl of Holloch, and Baron Done, with other their intimates he was at length intreated to accept of that golden Bait, a Crown, which was given to him freely, not without some regret, though by Others, such a Bit would be swallowed with damnation it self.

And this was hastened upon him in August 1619. and Crowned and his entrance into Prague the last of October, and his Coronation four daies after. But instantly posts the Baron to King Iames in excuse of all, either of too hasty acceptance, and neglect of his fatherly advice.

King Iames ever averse from such undue Precipitations, for affections of the people to be ingaged at their pleasures, and to be a President to dispose of Soveraignty already established; utterly refuses Done's Address, for a time, but dispatches Ambassadours to the Emperour, and to the States of the League and Covenant, not meddling with his Son in Law to advise or neglect him.

Of this errand two are sent in joint Commission to Boheme, Embassadours sent from England to the Emperor. Sir Richard Weston (after Lord Treasurer) and Sir Edward Conway, not long after Secretary of State: Ferdinand, upon the News of his New Rival in the Kingdom, hastens this Proscription against the Palsgrave.

§

We Ferdinando, &c.

Palsgrave proscribed. To all Electors, Princes, &c. But especially to the subjects of Frederick Count Palatine of the Rhene, Elector, &c.

That Frederick Count Palatine of the Rhene, hath made himself head of that perfidious and rebellious crue of our Kingdome of Boheme, wherefore we proclame him guilty of High Treason, and Iterate Proscription, and of all the penalties, which by Law and Custome are depending thereon. We conclude him out of Our and [Page] the Imperial peace, and are firmly resolved to execute the said penalties upon him, as against one pub [...]ickly proscribed an Enemy and Adversary to us, and the Empire. Commanding you under pain of Life, not to give him aid, succour, assistance, mony, provision, munition, openly or covertly.

And whoever is in pay, his Complices or Helpers, to forsake his service, and that the States dependant, alliances, subject, and his Vassals, shall not yield to him Obedience, nor partake to him of his crime, but to forsake him and assist us, to reduce him the Rebellious Frederick to obedience. And we absolve ye his Vassals from his protection, and from your Oath into our grace and favour, and whoever disobeys this our command, we declare him and them guilty of high Treason, and iterate Proscription, so well as himself.

Given at Our City Vienna, &c. 1626.

And now each Party take the field;War on both sides. The Duke of Saxony for the Imperial Ban, with twenty five thousand Men reduced Lusatia. The Prince of Anholt General, and Holloch Lieutenant General for Boheme, and with these (evenly powred) the war went on, in that Kingdom.

And to make it famous through the Western World;Spinola raises Forces in Flanders, Spinola forms an Army in Flanders, under Spains interest, but for that purpose, which King Iames suspected, and to be assured sent to Sir Thomas Edmonds his Ambassadour at Bruxels, to inquire (for the truce of Spain and the Netherlands continued) but Spinola's Commission was sealed up by the Spanish subtilty, not to open till the March of the Army of twenty thousand foot, and five thousand horse,So does Oxford and [...]ss [...]x in England. which proved fatal to the Palatinate.

The Spirits of the English began to bustle, Sir Horace Vere being here, and somewhat rusty since the peace with Spain, associating his Nephew the Earl of Oxford and Essex (young and daring Spirits,Hist. gr. B [...]. pa. 135. saies one) indeed so young they apprehend no danger, and so ignorant they knew not how to avoid it. Oxford the eighteenth Earl, and Lord High Chamberlain without intermission, from Awbry de Vere high Chamberlain to Henry the first; Portgrave of London, and Lord Chief Justice of England. Discended from the Earls of Guisure; the surname from Vere a Town in Zealand, his Son Awbry created Earl of Oxford by Henry 2. and High Chamberlain.

The eighth Earl after him, was by Richard 2. created Duke of Ireland during life, and bore for that honour quarterly before his own cote, three Crowns or, a border Argent; his own being quarterly Gu. and Or, upon the first a Mulletary.

This man now was lately returned home from Travel in hope [Page] to recover his former debaucheries, but how improved implicite credit was to expect the Tryal.

As for Essex then, he onely boid up by the people, upon his Fathers score, which we have told before.

But made they were made by Our younger Brothers to fight, and a Regiment onely was raised, not I believe imagined for any goodly effects, but to bandy with the Kings Wisdom, who though not forward in this unjustifiable quarrel, yet not without co [...]nsel to act for the future.

How madly some men urged the Kings interest, seeming so hasty, as to do the work at their own charge? but being connived at, to try their intent, the good Earl of Essex had fifty brave fellows pinn'd upon him to pay them their pensions, besides his compleat number of his own company. These two brave Captains with the rest, raw-souldiers, adventured without fear under (indeed) the fame and fortune of that Right valourous, and truly expert man of Arms, Sir Horace Vere their Colonell, who must needs indure with patience, the toil he had to make them good Souldiers.

Spinola had got the start,Their march and action in the expedition. yet the English got over, ere he took leave of the Arch-Duke, but they followed at a distance, somewhat in danger to go too near; and in August both forces were marching, the English had passage over the Rhine, by conduct of Prince Henry of Nassaw, with two thousand horse, and four hundred Musqueteers.Convoid by Hen. of Nassaw. But ere they came there, our raw English droop'd with eating honey, and lost not the Nickname for some years after. Ninety four with Tents, Truncks and Luggage were left at Bac-rack, and they and the Town lost to Spinola, by former example of all other that had stood in his way, and with no more pains than his sudden summons. And had done so to all the English, if his Design to snap them had not miscarried by the boisterous stream of the Rhine, which wet his Waggons of Ammunition, and some of his Field-pieces disordered, and so escaped they to Franckford, the 24. of September. Then to Darmstat, a Town of Bohemia, and to Hessen, where Prince Henry and the Dutch, take leave of the English and return home to Holland.

And here they joyn with fifteen hundred horse of the Princes of the Union and march to Reinshem, Joyn with the Princes of the Union. the nether Town of the Palatinate; and the third of October joyn with the Army; four thousand Horse, and six thousand Foot. Spinola at hand frightned them with a charge, but night afforded no light to sight, the next day to quarters for a Week, where the new Wine in the Must, grapes and fruits brought crudities upon their weak stomacks, till Spinola led them a Dance for Digestion as far as Keysers-Luther; and the weather cold, the Nights long, disposed [Page] their necessities to several Garrisons,Anno 1620 and the Forces of the Reformed Princes cooped up to their several places, whilest the Enemy carved to himself of the whole Countrey, the good English went thither to fight, and so came home again.

In this mean time the two Generals encounter,The Emperours General Bucquoy, Anholt for Bohemia. Anholt for Bohemia, had the better, and scattered Bucquoys main Body, this was in the Spring. But in Autumn it fell out otherwise, for whiiest Spinola and the Princes were hunting each other on the Hills, the Duke of Bavaria joyns with Bucquoy and Tilly. Anholt and Mansfield got between them and Prague, but the Enemy breaks through, and routs the other into confusion and flight.

Anholt and Holloch, the first that [...]led to the King of Bohemia at Prague, and the next morning the ninth of November, they all fly for succour, the King and Queen with both our Ambassadours, Weston and Conway, Is defeated and flyes with the K. and Q as far as Limburgh, in their way to the Netherlands, and the Ambassadours by safe conduct returned back to Bohemia, where the conquering business took up more time than to spend with leasurely disputes, and so they came home again.

The next Spring the Princes of the Union submit to the Emperour,The Prin [...]es submit to the Emperour. so does Anholt, who is received into favour, and made one of his Generals. Mansfield not so capable, and being put to his shifts, doubles his brave Spirit with the necessity of his Fortune, hurrying several Countries with Forces of fourteen thousand men, for almost two years after, till he constrained them to offer him peace, which he accepts.

Whilest King Iames sends to the Emperour by Ambassy of Sir Henry Wootten a Man fitted for Negotiation by his often imployments to Several States and Princes,Sir Henry Wootton Ambassador e [...] traordinary into G [...]rm [...]ny. and thus qualified he hath his Commission, passes by the Duke of Lovain in transitu (for I find not he had any Credentials to him) onely confers the Kings Christian intents, as one cumbred with the sad events of the Germane Troubles on this side; and the French intents on the other, and so not improper for the King to study the passages of both.

And out of his particular Commission to others he frames general Agruments to him,Duke of Lovain. of the Kings innocency in the beginning of the Bohemian business, and his impartiality ever since, and so rendered his Master the first Mediator therein, being tyed in the conscience of a Christian King to prosecute the same, and in it peace to all.

The Duke, a cunning and subtile Prince, told him, that the Princes of the Union would assure him, how his affections were in the cause, [...] more he could not get out of him.

His next was to the Arch-Duke Leopold (of the Austrian family) [Page] to him he had Letters, and tells him, That King Iames was cleer of all foreknowledge or counsells in the business of Bohemia, and also of the Pdlsgraves preceding practice, till it was laid upon him.

That his Master continued equal to both parties, and was troubled, that there should be so great preparations for invading the Nether Palatinate, being the Patrimony of the Kings Descendants, no way commixt with the affairs of Bohemia.

Perswades the Arch-Duke, as a Personage of power to keep those that were in action, from such precipitation, as might preclude all mediation of accord.

He was answered, with the Arch-Dukes protestation; That he believes the Kings cleernes, but of the Palsgrave he much doubts, accusing him of practice with the Bohemians, at the Emperours Election at Franckford, and more foully (said he) to introduce the Turk into Hungary.

And conceived, the Marquess Spinola might have some aim upon the Lower Palatinate, assured the Emperours inclination to accord, but never without restitution of the usurped Kingdom; a loss not of easy concoction, especially by the Palatine his subject.

And excused the Emperours levies, for that there were likewise some English forces, designed, towards that place out of England, which was no fair way, if King Iames intended a Treaty.

It was replyed by Wootton, That true it was, the Kings people, and some of the Nobility, had taken Alarm, upon a voice of that Invasion, and voluntarily meant to sacrifice themselves in that action; but without the Kings concurrence of mony or command.

And being ask; he answered, he had no particular form of Accord to propose to the Emperour, for the King thought it necessary, to dispose the affections on both sides; and so collect some measure of agreement without spending the honour of the King in vain Treaties.

Then to the Community of Strasburgh and Ulme, Community of Strasburgh, and Ulme. who professed themselves in Newtrality, for it might be uncivil (they said) to offer their Counsels, where such Kings imploy their Wisdomes and Authority; they would only contribute their prayers.

The Duke of Wittenburgh, Duke of Wittenburgh. made large professions towards th [...] King of Bohemia (as he called the Palatine) of whose cleerness from practice, he could vindicate; for visiting him presently upon his Election, he found him perplexed even to tears for to accept of the Kingdom, he was lyable to suspition, as to ambition, and if he refused, he feared the people would [Page] call in more then Christian aid, to the effusion of much bloud. And professed that no Prince of the Empire, should exceed his affection to defend the Palatinate, with all his power by bond of consederacy, and reason of State, lest any Stranger should neighbour him.

He had likewise Commission to the Duke of Bavaria, And to the Duke of Bavaria. whom he found in actual arms about Lintz. in the Upper Austria, and the Emperour at Vienna, with no success in those Messages.

Yet still King Iames hoping that time it self,Without success from any of them. and the experience of vexation, might in some degree mollifie their affections, better to digest difficulties, he never refused by Ambassies to both sides, and to all other the intervenient Princes and States, to attempt that high work of Peace first; and then afterwards of Restauration of the Palatinate, by other waies and means.

The times when these Negotiations set forward, were usuall in the Kings progress or retirements from London to his Sports (as was conceived) but they were then chosen abroad for better leasure of business, even then when Kingdoms were in dispute. An art he had thus to cover his weightier Meditations, for most of his Dispatches were concluded in his hunting journies.

Prince Charls now grown man;Resolves [...]pon a Parliament and Match with Spain. the King had disposed to a Treaty for his Marriage with the Infanta of Spain (some while since) and Sir Walter Aston, sent thither Lieger to fit correspondence, and now conceived not improper to induce the restauration of the Palatinate by that means.

However, it may be observed the evil success of all our former medling with that Nation in matters of marriages, so malignant, and disagreeing with ours.

Let us ravel back to the memory of the Black Prince, a person of the greatest performance that Christendome can parrallel. Yet in his voyage to Spain to settle Don Piedro; besides their monstrous ingratitude and perfidy to him then, caused also that miserable revolt in France by his absence, which lost us our Inheritance there, and his health ever after, his body either corrupted by the air, or by their Drugs impoisoned.

And indeed their matches with the heirs and Princes of this Crown, for above six score years, having been no where else (except the second Marriages of Henry the eight) were alwaies unhappy.

Prince Arthurs sudden death, left his Widow to his wicked Brother, with whom God was less pleased, as the Match was more unlawful; and therefore not a Male was left of their race, only one Daughter, in whose short reign of six years, was more bloodshed for the true Religion, than for the false in sixty years, [Page] she adventuring to marry there also, this discontented Nation; fell into insurrections, Treasons, Wiats Rebellion, and therefore her Husband Ph [...]lip, suspecting the future effects, forsook her; who lost Callis to the French in six daies that the English had enjoyed 200. years; but altogether, broke her heart, and she dyed.

Now to parallel these foreign Matches with those at home to our own Subjects, the first being by Edward the fourth, and the last with Henry the eight, from which two, Gods blessing brought forth two Queens Elizabeths; such instruments of his Glory, Peace in the Land, and Religion in the Church, as never could produce greater examples of Happiness to England, until this of King Iames, who brought hither them both with him.

But for settling affairs at Home,A Parliament called. for his purpose abroad, he resolves of a Parliament [which he had thought (saies one) to lay them by for ever as incroachers upon his prerogative,Hist. gr. Br. pa. 150.and diminishers of his Majesties glory, making Kings less, and subjects more than they are.]

Certainly he had good intelligence from the Kings thoughts or else the Man had a Devilish revelation, to prophesy the effects, for such they proved to be afterwards. But in truth, the people were grown high fed, with plenty and peace, and pretending their zeal for regaining the Palatinate, were wilde for a War, with any body for any thing.

The King willing to let blood in that vein, meant to make it his purpose, and to get money to boot.

Some sheets of paper together, is wasted by Our adversary to let in his Reader into that Parliament, [he saies, That for the Spanish faction was Arundel, Worcester, Digby, Calvert, Weston,Hist. Gr. Br. p 144. and others Popishly affected, with Buckingham, and all his Train.

The Duke of Lenox, Marquess Hamilton; and Earl of Pembroke, their Antagonists. Such and so few were they, not in anger against the King, but against his Ministers (a plea evermore borrowed by practical people against their Sovereigns Proceedings.)

The Papists flourished by Gondamores power with the Ladies of England, their Nieces and Daughters, presenting him in their Balconies in Drury-Lane, and the Strand (long before any were quilt in those places) and himself in a Litter; but was only accosted by the Lady Jacob with a gaping Yawn, telling his servant that came on the Errand to know the meaning, that she had a Mouth to be stopt too; which Gondamore closed with a present.

That this Lady was a Bawd to the beauties, and poor fortunes of young Gentlewomen, whose parents sent them up hither for preferment, [Page] and saies, that for respects to their posterities he will spare to name their persons. It seems, he was Pimp-Major to them all.

How does this di [...]ecting become his grave Proeme (if it be his own) where he saies, Histories are like Anatomies; if ignorance or malice attempt to hack, hew, or bespatter it, it will be most inhumane, &c. And so dissect and open their own follies, &c. They must not cauterize and flash with malice, &c? Therefore he that censures others, and vents them for truth, digs in the bowels of another, and wounds himself. And yet (as he saies) though he fly high and may rove, he is sure not to light far from the mark. So he there in his proeme.

He goes on in his History, Buckingham made M [...]rqu [...]sse▪ and Master of the Horse. and tells us, That the Earl of Buckingham, now Marquess rules all, That the King bought of Worster to make the Marquess Master of the Horse.]

But in truth, that antient Earl being Chamberlain also to the Queens Houshold, could not attend that service, and wait abroad upon the King, and it was therefore his own suit, and Buckingham paid him for parting with it, and so was made Master of the Horse.

The place of Marquess is the next in honour to a Duke,The Dignity of a Marquess. the title came but of late daies, the first was by Richard 2. upon Robert de Vere Marquess of Dublin; and so it became a Title of honour; for before that time, they were called Lords Marchers and not Marquesses. After the Conquest (as in policy) they were resident upon the Confines and Borders of the Welch, and other places not subdued; Men of valour, of high blood of the Normans, with the name and privileges of Earls of Chester. And for the Nort Borders of Wales to be Count Palatines. And the Barons of the Middle part of the South-Marches were adorned in a manner with a Palatine Jurisdiction, having a Court of Chancery, and Writs among themselves pleadable, least their attendance abroad might be prejudicial at home. And as for the other part of the South-Marches, they seemed sufficiently, defended with the River Severn and the Sea.

By these Ascents our Marquess Buckingham climbs to succeed at this time a good and gallant old Earl of Nottingham Admiral, who being almost Bedrid, made Suit to the King that he might dispose of his place, as a Legacy in his life time upon Buckingham; which was so done, and who to my Knowledge went in person to him, and acknowledged the kindness, and his young Lady was presented with a Noble and valuable Reward 30001. besides a pension of one thousand pound per annum during his life, and this was done with so much love and liking, that I have often observed Buckinghams great Civility ever after, at meetings to call him Father, and bend his knee, without the [Page] least regret of that Lord, that gained more by the bargain. And because Sir Robert Mansel, a dependant of Nottingham, had the place of Vice-Admiral, at pleasure only; Buckingham, for his Lords sake continued him so by Patent during his life; for which courtesy the good old man came himself to give thanks (as I remember) the last Complyment his age gave him leave to present. And thus was this office of honour, and safety to the Kingdom, ordered from the command of a decrepit old man, to a proper, young, and active Lord, strengthened with the abilities o [...] an experienced Assistant, without deserving qu [...]r [...]el of our carping Pamphleter.

A [...]ter Suffolk, Montague Viscount Mandevile, L. Treasur [...]r. the weight and charge of the Treasurers Staff, was conferred upon the Lord Chief Justice Sir Henry Mountague Viscount Mandevile, Son of Sir Edward Mountague of Bolton in the County of Northampton (Son of another Sir Edward likewise Chief Justice) who had three Sons, Edward the eldest, Knight of the Bath, bred up in the Wars, a faithful Noble stout Commander. Iames that reverend, eloquent and learned Bishop of Winchester, a man so highly in favour and esteem with this King his Master, that he had the honour of the Bedchamber, which no Prelate ever enjoyed from any King. This Henry was created Baron of Kimbolton, Viscount Mandevile, and Lord Treasurer in 1620: Afterwards Pre [...]ident of the Council, and the first year of King Charles Earl of Manchester, and Lord Privy Seal, and dyed after the entrance of the long Parliament, 1643.

A man of singular learning in the Laws, his Wisdome and experience deserving those high places of Trust and honour. He married three wives, Katherine the Daughter of Sir William Spencer in Oxon, by whom he had five sons and four daughters; Edward the eldest Viscount Mandevile, Knight of the Bath, Walter, Iames, Charls, and Henry. His second Wife Ann Wincol of Suffolk, Widow to Alderman Holyday, Lord Major of London, by whom he had issue. His third Wife was Daughter of Iohn Crowch of Cornbury, in the County of Hartford, Widow of Iohn Hare of the Court of Wards, by whom he had issue George and Sydney, men of eminent vertues now living, 1655.

Our Historian tells us, Hist. Gr. Br. p. 152. his falsities. of the swarming of Jesuits, That our Counsellors of State, and Secretaries, were Counselors to the Pope and of a Divelish Sermon before the King, which he (the Lyar) saw and heard (if the King did not) for Bishop Neal would always ingrosse the Kings ears with baudy Tales. This his Discourse, smells too rank (he saies) and craves excuse, having had hammerings and conflicts within himself to leave it out (and yet goes on with his baseness) and tells us, that this Bishops hand closed up the Countess [Page] of Essex's virginity, and that such like practices as these gave an after period to that Hierarchy.

Then follows, [a Tale of the female Iesuitrices in England, an Order (he says) first framed in Flanders, by two women, Mrs. Ward, and Mrs. Twily, clothed in Ignatian habit, supported by three Fathers, Gerard, Flack and Moor, to preach their Gospel to their Sect in England, and two hundred English Damosels of great Birth and quality sent of the Errand, and for the truth of all produces a Proselyte Turn-coat, of any Religion, and every Trade, that tells this story in the Spanish Pilgrime, which our Adversary recites to grace his History.

The Iesuits indeed are bad enough, but to cope them with our Counsellours of State, and other Tales with no better Authority, we may herein minde our Authour, Not to bely the Devil.

Sir Francis Cottington, Resident in Spain, had the conveniency three years before, to discover the affairs of those parts, and gave intelligence hither, of the increase of Pirates in the Mediterranean Sea,Design against Pirates in the Mediterranean Sea. their whole Fleet then consisting of fourty tall Ships, of two hundred, and four hundred Tuns, in two Squadrons; the one remaining before Malago, the other about the Cape St: Maria, between Lisbone and Sevile. That within the Streights they entered the Road of Mostil, a Town by Malago; beat down the Castle, and had taken the Town, but for succour of Souldiers that came from Granado; yet they took divers Ships, and four of the West of England, two other of ours that ran on shore they burnt also; and absol [...]tely perverting our Trade into Spain. These at Cape St. Maria, met with seven Sail of London, five they took, and two e [...]caped. They are usually manned with Turks and Spanish Moriscoes, and attend the coming of the West India Fleet, then commanded by Don Iohn Faxardo.

Upon this occasion the State of Spain moved King Iames to joyn some Sea-forces for their suppression, as the common Enemy of Christendom. And indeed those courses of the Pirates do but exercise the Forces of Spain by Sea, without any great hurt, the most dammage falls upon the Trade of Merchants thither, of which the English will be the greatest number, and so of Sufferers. The last year the Hollander having leave of Spain, for certain of their Ships armed against the Pirates, to have safe recourse thither, but instead of offending them, sold to Algier as much Powder and Ammunition as ever since hath furnished the Pirates Fleets. By which means now grown formidable, few Merchant-men escaping them; th [...] strong Town of Algier upon the Coast of Barbary countenancing their Thievery, and depending on the Turks Protection; [Page] yet so cunningly contrived; as not to be seen to protect them, that all Christian Ambassadours concerned herein, and complaining at Constantinople, could have no redress.

And therefore, it was now concluded to conjoyn Forces of Christendom to free that Sea. In so much that they in some fear eighteen of the chie [...]est Pirates in the Levant authorized the Viscount L' Orme, Some of them offer submission. and one De la Pomeray, Frenchmen, to search for their pardon, and to come in with all their Shipping, offering to the English (mostly concerned therein) for retribution of this grace, fourty and five thousand pound sterling; but this was negotiated onely by their Emissary La Forest at Bruxels unto our Agent there, Sir William Trom [...]all, on purpose to tempt us and the French, unto whom the like was offered, from joyning with others to ruine them, but was therefore attempted by all.

And for the English was sent Sir Robert Mans [...] Vice-Admiral of the Narrow Seas,Sir Robert Mans [...]l sent to surprize them. with a Fleet this year.

And arriving in May with expectation of other Assistants, they all failing to any purpose, his noble heart disdaining to return without Attempts. He first furnished two Prizes (which he took by the way) three Brigandines, and a Boat with Fire-locks, and combustible materials for bu [...]ning the Pirates Ships in the Harb [...]r, (who were all come home from Sea, and got in for safety within the Mole) Mansel having trained his men in the execution of their several Du [...]es, and likewise appointed a Squadron of Boats with small Shot to rescue the Vessels of Execution both in the Advancement and Retreat.

The 21. of May, the Vessels of Execution were all advanced, but by reason of contrary windes were presently commanded to retire.

The next two nights, being likewise in readiness they were becalmed, and could execute nothing.

The fourth night, with a fair Gale being advanced again, and the Fire-ships, almost recovered the Mouth of the Mole, the winde turned to the opposite point of the Compass.

The Boats performed their Direction in towing the Ships, but considering, that by continuance of this course, they should expose our principal men to hazard, by the Ordnance and small Shot that played upon them, they debate therefore amongst themselves what to do. Captain Hughes that commanded one of the Brigandines, replied, Go on, and give attempt by the Boats, which they did, crying out King Iames, and fearless of danger, even in the mouth of the Cannon and small Shot, which showred like Hail upon them; the English fired the Enemies Ships in sundry places, and maintained the fight to the delight of their fellow-shipping that were lookers on, so long [Page] as powder remained; striving in the end, who should have the honour to come off last, which was left to the Captain Hugh [...]s, and so retired only with the loss only of 20 men, and leaving the fire flaming up in 7 several places.

The cowardly Turks, who before dur [...] not shew themselves to these weak forces, but from the Walls and tops of houses, so soon as the English were retyred, opened their ports, and sallied out a thousand, and so by help of Multitudes and a sudden shore of rain, and a calm, the fire was extinguished, making some of their Ships unserviceable.

In which time of Service only one Frygat came out of the Moal, which was forced back upon the Shore; sunck one of their best men of War, being manned with one hundred thirty Turks, and twelve Christians, whereof twelve onely escaped.

And took also a Fly-boat (which the Pyrates had formerly taken from the Christians) which was sold to Leghorn, her merchandize to be exchanged for Pyrats goods, and some money, above two thousand pound Sterling. The Turks manned out 3. Gallies to rescue her, but were beaten by the help of the 3. Brigandines, sent out to her succour.

Ten daies together the English attended opportunity to send in the Ships with the fire-Works, to finish the former service, done by the Boats, but not a breath of Wind happened fitting for the Work, So that in this time the Pyrates had boomed up the Moles with Masts and Raffs, and set a double Guard upon all their Ships [...] planted more Ordnance, manned out twenty Boats to guar [...] [...]he Booms, and sent out Gallies and Boats for Intelligence hereof, East and West-ward to all Ships abroad, not to come in during the English abode; which made Mansel retire, with all his Ships and Merchants assisting him, into the Road of Alegant, where he received Order from hence, over land to return home and to intrust four of the Kings ships into the hands of Captain Rogers; and not long after the Plague and infection possessing his Fleet, he was forced to return home, without any other assistance.

The time come and Parliament sit in Ianuary; The King enters them thus;

My Lords, and you the Commons,

CUi multiloquio non de est peccatum. K. Speech to the Par [...]ia [...]. In my last Parliament I made long Speeches to the lower House; I have piped to you, and you have not danced; I have mourned, and ye have not lamented. And wills them to apply it to themselves, not to spend long Speches. That a Parliament is composed of a Head and [Page] a Body; the Monarch and Estates; first a Monarch, then after a Parliament (No Parliaments but in Monarchies; for in Venice, and Netherlands theres none) and Parliaments duties is to treat of Difficulties,It seems so by ours lately not long lasting. and to Counsel their King; To make Laws for the Common-wealth, and the Lower House to petition the King, with knowledge of their grievances, but not to meddle with the Kings Prerogative. They are to supply his necessities, and he in recompence, distributes his Justice and mercy.

It is the Kings Office to make good Laws (whose fundamental is the peoples ill manners, and so at this time, new abuses and incroaching Crafts.

The Religious Laws are enough, consisting only of Perswasion and Compulsion; and Gods blessing: Priests, Puritans and Sectaries, errours of the right and left hand, are forward enough their way. Let Bishops be as bold by good examples and preaching, but compulsion binds the conscience.

There is talk of the Match with Spain: However he will never proceed but to Gods glory and Subjects content.

And for their supply of his Necessities; tells them of their eighteen years peace and plenty, and yet he hath received far less assistance than any King since the Conquest. Queen Elizabeth had communibus annis, above one hundred thousand pounds a year in subsidies: and he had in all his time but four subsidies and six fifteens, and it is ten years since he had any; that he hath been sparing to trouble them, or to spend himself, abated in his Houshold, in his Navies, and Munition, changed an old Admiral for a young Man, whose honesty and care hath lessned that charge.

Tells them, he is not the Cause of Dissentions in Christendom but rather sent Doncaster to appease them,Hist. Gr. Br. will have it 60000. l. at the charge of three thousand five hundred pounds. His Son-in-Law sent indeed for his advice, and accepts the Crown three daies after, which the King never approved of for three reasons.

1. Religion, not as the Jesuits to dispose and overthrow Kingdoms, but with our Saviour to uphold.

2. He was no judge, and ignorant of those laws, Quis te judicem fecit?

3. That he treated a Peace, and will not be party, yet he left not to preserve his Childrens patrimony, and accounts to them his Receipts for that purpose, and how disposed.

He borrowed of his Brother of Denmark | 7500.l.
And of his own added | 2500
And sent this to his Son |
And to the Princes to hearten them | 30000
Total | 40000l.

[Page] That had the Princes done their parts his handful of men had not failed,Anno 1621. and now he must be fain to perswade, unless a strong hand assist, and purposes to provide a strong Army next Summer, and desires them to consider his necessities; qui cito, bis dat.

And shews his equity to them, in course of Law never obstructing Ju [...]gement, by message or Sentence.

W [...]shes them to consider advance of Trade, and why his Mint hath stood still the [...]e nine years; confesses his Royal heart liberal in Gran [...]s; but being informed he will amend any grievance; but yet he tells them, that who ever hastens after grievances, and neglects all other business of greater moment, hath the Spirit of Sa [...]an; for himself will reform any errour; and desires that the world may speak well of their mutual agreeing.

Thus much in effect the King told them, and which prepared their wild resolutions, to strike at Prerogative now, to undermine it,Digby Extraordinary Ambassadour to the Emperor. only by qu [...]rrelling with the Kings best Ministers and whilest these bandy in the Lower House; the King proceeds in his Publick course, concerning Germany, and forthwith sends the Lord Dig [...]y, extraordinary to the Emperour for a posi [...]ive answer for rendition of the Palatinate by force or friendship.

These businesses abroad and expence at home brings him to accompt with his Exchequer,Sir Lionel Cranfield I▪ Treasurer. where he finds his Exits increased the Incomes, and intending the best Husbandry to piece out the expence, He changes his Treasurer Mountague, for other preferments of honour and profit, and puts in Sir Lionel Cranfield [upon no other merit (saies one) but for marrying the Marquesses Kin] such Another saies more.Co. and ch p. 87.

But I find him of an antient family in Gloucester-shire, and being bred a Merchant Adventurer of London, and other his extraordinary qualities, in that and other Commendable wayes, became useful to the State also.

And first had the honour of Knight-hood, then the custody of the Kings Wardrobes, afterwards Master of the Court of Wards and Liveries, and now Lord Treasurer, and created Earl of Middlesex.

Some busie Barons had gotten together a gang of Discontents, of several Titles, and framed a petition, and their hands to it; with this General Title.

The humble Petition of the Nobility of ENGLAND.Anno 1620.

[Page]

SHEWETH,

THat whereas your Majesty by importunity of some natural subjects of England, Petition against the multitude of titles of Honour. hath conferred upon them Honours, Titles, and Dignities, peculiar to other your Majesties Dominions, by which the Nobility of this Realm find themselvs prejudiced. Our humble desire is, that with your allowance we may challenge and preserve our Birth-rights, withont any notice of those Titulars to our Prejudice; and to be excused to deny them the respect or place as to Noble men Strangers. Seeing that these being our Countrymen, born and abide here, have yet procured their Translation into foreign names onely to our injury.

But in this address, we meddle not to limit or interprete the power of your Soveraignty (being the root whence all Honor receives Sap, under what title soever) to collate what you please upon whom, and how you please.

The Subsigners were,

Oxford,

Essex,

Warwick,

Abergaveny,

Dacres,

Darcy,

Sheffield,

Cr [...]mwel,

Scroop,

Sturton,

St. Iohn,

Paget,

Dudley,

Spencer,

Say.

The Barons indeed came behind, but few Earls had cause so to complain. And it was Say (I remember well) the Ring-leader of all, though the last in Ranck, and least in prejudice.

But his prejudice and subtilty, steered the way to the rest, who having a loose Brother amongst them (perhaps many more) stole the Copy to the King, and betrayed their intentions, before it was well-moulded.

The King wisely sent for them a sunder, and roughly told them, their Petition was sawcy, but ended humbly; concluding themselves, not to expostulate his power or pleasure, which if any of them sought to question, they should soon find the effects; but the first Man declined it, as brought in by the buy, and so did the second and third; the rest took pattern from their submission,Hist. Gr. Br. p 189. and here was an end of that ranting Petition; for our Author would enforce belief, That the King pulled up his Spirits, when he told Essex, He feared him not with his fourty▪ thousand men; But the Proverb alludes in scorn to the [Page] folly of the French, Oh the King of France and fourty thousand men, and then with more disdam on Essex.

Hereupon the Commons take example, and Petitions are framed,Petitions against Gri [...]vances. as from the people, but indicted by the Parliament: A custom which the Commons house in those times took up to make business, rather than be idle.

And first they fall upon Patents for Inns, Ale-houses, Gold and Silver Thread counterfeit, (pretious matter to spend time, being now to quarrel with the Empire.)

The last of them,Hist. gr. Br. pa. 135. Our Historian saies [was of sophisticate materials, engrossing all the Trade of that Ages vanity (onely in Gold and Silver Lace) and so poisonous were the Druggs of the Composition, that rotted hands and arms, with lameness upon the very work-folks, loss of their Eyes and Lives, by venome of the vapors that came from it] ah abominable un truth!

The Patron of this Patent was an honourable Lord, though led aside by Instruments whom he trusted. Indeed a Pragmatick Lawyer, whose weakness in that Profession came behind the ordinary Practisers, and therefore he got a Privilege and Prerogative to be first heard at the Bar, and was nick-named Prerogative Pleader, until a witty Judge told him, he should have the first Motion, but not to be granted at all.

Sir Giles Mompeson, the Patentee for Inns.

Sir Francis Michel for Ale-houses, two corrupt Justices of the Peace. It were wished that they might have been the last of that race. But these Patents taking up more time in the Disquisition, than their serious business should permit, the King rouses the Lords to their Sentence of them with this Speech.

§

MY LORDS,

THE last time I inform'd you,The Kings Speech to the Lords. the Verity of my Proceedings, a [...]d caution, in passing these Patents in question, by way of Declaration, and now to expresse my desire, to have your sentence and execution, against Mompesson, who though he be fled, my Proclamation pursued him, and shall be as earnest to see your sentence against him executed.

And tells them his Reasons: 1. That there being a Politique Marriage betwixt Him and his people, he is in duty to God, tyed to the care of good government. And had these things been complained of before, he would have redressed them sooner: Remembring them what he hath often said, That no private person should be respected before the publique good, not only of the whole Commonweal, but even of a particular Corporation, that is but a member of it.

[Page] 2. That he intends not to infringe but to satisfie the House Liberties, for never any King did so much for them, and will doe more; and assures them that the Presidents of former good government shall warrant them to him. Acknowledging them the Supream Court of Iustice, Himself as present by Representation. And to add to their Honour; he hath made the Prince a member amongst them: Professes the love and respect he hath received from the Lower House, in their proceedings. And always the like from the Lords, especially by relation of his son, of them all in general and particular; and the like (he said) by One that sits there, Buckingham, a proof whereof the Earl of Arundel witnessed in his report to them, of the privileges of Nobility, how earnest he was therein.

Acknowledges the free gift of this Parliament of two Subsidies, and so accepted by him, which he will re [...]ribute by a General Pardon, at the end of the Parliament, and will do somewhat in ease of the people till then.

As for the Ale-Houses, he refers to the Iustices of Peace. For the Gold and Silver Thread, he damm's the Patent, which may serve for a Pardon to the Actors therein.

Another Bill against Informers, he desires may be put to an end, for (he sayes) that heretofore he hath shewed in Starre-Chamber his dislike of such people. And that Buckingham told him, that since this Parliament, he was not haunted with such spirits, as usually he had been vexed.

Tells them plainly, he is assured, That this external Government for learned Iudges, and hopes honest administration of Iustice, and with Peace and Plenty, yields to every one safety under his Vine and Fig-tree; yet he understands his Subjects vexations by vile execution of Projects, Patents, Bills of Conformity, and such like, which more exhaust the peoples purses than Subsidies.

Then he comes close to the Lords, the effect of his errand, He advises them of their Iudgement; Agere bonum, & bene bonum is good proof before Iudgement. Bene is the formality and legality to advise with the Iudges, so the ground good, the form orderly, it will befit the Court of Parliament.

The Sentence he observes in two parts; that which is worthy the Iudging and censuring; And secondly, to proceed as against these Delinquents, so against such like crimes. Complaints are of passion, justly distinguish, innocent from guilt, and do it legally; for Moral Reason supposes, breach of Laws, standing in force, otherwise they punish by predestination.

And concludes, against his late Atturney General, Sir Henry Yelverton Prisoner in the Tower, upon Sentence in Star-chamber. That he being accused besides concerning a Warrant-dormant; he freely delivers him over unto their Iudgement.

[Page] Thus we see what the King sayes; But as in this Speech,Anno 1621. so in all others of his, our Historian fails not to let in his conceited descant, not worth the Dispute, and excuses Yelverton, as he does all Offenders against the King.

Sir Henry Yelverton was Atturney General, and by his place of Imployment, it was his duty to mann [...]ge the charge of Impeachments against Somerset, or any Subject whatsoever without dispute, which yet he refused, as receiving that place by his favour; for which contempt to the Kings service, not without more than suspition of concealment of some passages concerning Overburies death; he was for those reasons (and deservedly) by the whole Court of Star Chamber, unanimously sentenced, and so of course committed to the Tower, close Prisoner; where we are to be perswaded also by the Pamphleter,

That the Lieutenant of the Tower Balfore,Co. & Ch. p. 156. admits Buckingham to treat with him in prison, and then to piece out a peace between them both.

Certainly, Yelverton had law to teach him (or any other Prisoner of Reason) that this was Treason in Balfore, and in Buckingham also to attempt. And therefore to cleer it, Balfore himself hath since avowed to a Prisoner, sometime under his Guard, that there was never any such act done by Buckingham, or any other by his permission. But afterwards upon Yelvertons humble submission for his former fault, and his innocency (in some doubts) cleered from other suspitions, he was set at Liberty. And in truth according to the merit of the Man, he was afterwards intrusted with the judgement Seat.

But what was this secret information, which we are told he should tell Buckingham? That which the King spake in Parliament, viz. Not to spare any that was dearest, or lay in his bosome, by which he pointed to you, saies Yelverton (meaning Buckingham.)

And must Buckingham adventure his and the Lieutenants head to learn this news; which no doubt the Favourite heard before, being at the Kings elboe.

And this discourse pretended by our Pamphleter betwixt Buckingham, and Yelverton in the Tower,Hist. gr. Br. pa. 158. our Historian himself, that passes by nothing to pick his cavils, suspects the truth thereof. But will nothing satisfy but Yelvertons own hand, see what he sayes in his Letter to Buckingham upon his return out of Spain? dated the fifteenth of March, 1623. Which we enter here.

[Page]

May it please your Grace,

MY humble heart, &c. will be glad to expiate my errours at any rate,Yelvertons L [...]tte [...] to Buckingham. &c. Your noble Heart, (I hope) harbours no memory of what I gave distast, your own merits, which have so much enobled you, will be the more compleat. If I seek your Grace before I deserve it, enable me I beseech you to deserve that I may seek.

If any, on whom you have cast your eye most, endear himself more to your service then I shall; let me not follow the vintage at all. Till this day I feared the relish of sour grapes, though I have sought you with many broken sleeps, but this Noble Earl (whose honour▪ for this work shall ever with me be second to yours) hath revived me with assurance of your Graces pardon and liberty, to hope I may be deemed your Servant. I protest to God, it is not the affluence of your honour makes me joy in it, not the power of your Grace, that trains me on to seek it, but let the tryal of your fortunes speak thus much for me, that I will follow you, not as Cyrus his Captains and Souldiers followed him for Spoil or place, but if with safety to your Grace, though with peril to my self I may serve you, let me die if I do it not, rather than want longer, what my humble love ever led me to, and still to affect the honour to be,

Yours, &c. Henry Yelverton.

This if he were guilty, was very ingenuous, if innocent, most base.

Sir Francis Michel, for his crimes concerning his undue Execution of his Justiceship of the Peace,Michel censured. is degraded the honour of Knighthood, and rode with his face to the Horse-tail through the strand.and Mompesson, The same sentence had Mompeson of his Inns, but he runs away out of their reach as far as France.

In this Parliament of searching the sores of Complaints appears the Chancelour Sir Francis Bacon to his censure for Bribery and Extortion, but to mollify the Sentence, he submits and supplicates the Lords in Parliament, and because you shall see what he could say, I shall set it down at length very witty and worth the reading.

To the Right Honourable the Lords of the Parliament, the Vpper House assembled.
The humble submission and supplication of the Lord Chancellour.

[Page]

May it please your Lordships,

I Shall humbly crave at your hands benign interpretation of that which I shall now write, for words that come from wasted Spirits, and oppressed minds are more safe for being deposited to a noble Construction, than being circled with any reserved caution.

This being moved (& [...] I hope obtained of) your Lordships as a protection to all that I say I shall go on but with a very strange entrance, as may seem to your Lordships at first; for in the midst of a State of as great affection as I think a mortal man can endure honour being above life I shall begin with the professing of gladness in some things.

The first is that hereafter the greatnesss of a Iudge or Magistrate shall be no sanctuary or protection to him against guiltiness, which is the beginning of a golden work.

The next that after this example, it is like that Iudges will flie from any thing in the likeness of corruption, without it were a great distance, as from a Serpent which tends to the purging of the Courts of Iustice and reducing them to their true honour and splendour.

And in these two points God is my witness I thought it be my fortune to be the anvil upon which these two are broken and wrought, I take no small comfort but to pass from the motions of my heart wherof God is my Iudge to the merits of my cause, whereof your Lordships are Iudges under God, and his Lieutenant; I do understand there hath been expected from me some Iustification, and therefore I have chosen one onely Iustification, instead of all others out of the Iustifications of Job, for after the dear submission and confession, which I shall now make unto your Lordships, I hope I may say, and justify with Job, in these words, I have not hid my sin as did Adam, nor consealed my faults, in my bosom; this is the only Iustification, which I will use.

It resteth therefore that without Fig-leaves, I do ingenuously confess, and acknowledge that having understood the particulars of the charge not formerly from the house, but enough to inform my conscience and memory, I finde matter sufficient and full both to move me to desert my defence, and to move your Lordships to condemn and censure me, neither will I trouble your Lordships by singling these particulars to which I think I might fall off. Quid te exempla [Page]juvant spinis de pluribus una? Neither will I promise your Lordships to observe upon the proofs where they come not home, or the scruple touching the credits of the Witness; neither will I represent to your Lordships, how for a defence I might in divers things extenuate the offence, in respect of the time and manner of the guilt, and the like circumstances, but only leave these things to spring out of your more noble thoughts and observations of the evidence and examinations themselves, and charitably to wind about the particulars of the charge, as God shall put into your minds, and so submit my self wholly to your piety and grace.

And now I have spoken unto your Lordships as Iudges, I shall say a few words unto you as Peers and Prelates, humbly commending my cause to your noble minds and magnanimous affections.

Your Lordships are not simply Iudges, but Parliamentary Iudges, you have a further extent of arbitrary power than other Courts, and you are not tyed by ordinary course of Courts or Presidents, in points of Strickness, and severity, much less in points of mercy, and yet if any thing which I shall move might be contrary to your honorable and worthy end, the entroducing a reformation, I should not seek it, but herein I beseech your Lordships to give me leave to tell you a story.

Titus Manlius took his Sons life for giving battail against the prohibition of his General; not many years the like severity was persued by Papinius Cursor the Dictator, against Quintus Maximus, who being upon the point to be sentenced, was, by the intercession of some particular person of the Senate, spared; whereupon Livie maketh this grave and gratious observation, Neque minus formata est disciplina militaris periculo Quinti Maximi quam miserabili, supplicio Titi Manlii; The Discipline of War was no less established by the questioning of Quintus Maximus, than by the punishment of Titus Manlius, and the same reason is in the reformation of Iustice: for the questioning of men in eminent places hath the same terror, though not the same rigor with the punishment. But my cause staies not there, for my humble desire is, that his Majesty would take the seal into his own hands, which is a great downfal, and may serve, I hope, in it self for an expiation of my faults.

Therefore if mercy and mitigation be in your Lordships power and no way cross your ends, why should not I hope of favour and commiseration. Your Lordships will be pleased to behold your chief pattern, the King our Sovereign, a King of incomparable clemency, and whose heart is inscruteable for wisdome and goodness. And your Lordships will remember there sat not these hundred years before a Prince in your House, and nevee such a Prince, whose presence deserves to be made memoriable by Records and Acts, mixt with mercy and Iustice. Your selves are either Nobles (and compassion ever beateth in the veins of noble blood) or reverend Prelates, who are [Page] the servants of him that would not break the brused Reed nor quench the smoking flax. You all sit upon an high Stage, and therefore cannot but be senseable of the changes of humane condition, and of the fall of any from high place.

Neither will your Lordships forget, that there are Vitia Temporis, as well as Vitia Hominis; and the beginning of Reformation hath the contrary power to the Pool of Bethesda; for that had strength to cure him only that was first cast in, and this hath strength to hurt him only that is first cast in, and for my part I wish it might stay there and go no further.

Lastly, I assure my self your Lordships have a noble feeling of me as a member of your own body, and one that in this very Session had some taste of your loving affection, which I hope was not a lightning before the death of them, but rather a spark of that grace, which now in the conclusion will more appear. And therefore my humble sute to your Lordships is, That my penitent submission may be my Sentence, the loss of my Seal, my punishment, and that your Lordships will recommend me to his Majesties pardon for all that is past. Gods holy Spirit be amongst you.

Your Lordships humble Servant and Suppliant, Fran. St. Albons Canc.

April 22.

This Petition found the full effects, pity and compassion from all, procured pardon also from the King, with the loss only of his Peerage and Seal; for so weak a husband he had been to lay up any store for the future, that the King allowed him a pension to his death.

He was a person compleat,His character. of excellent parts and general learning, with that of the Law, as proper for that place as any man of the Gown.

His merits made him so then, which his vices in continued time, and now, basely blemished, and he justly removed, to his private studies, which render him to the world full of worth. And with small charity of the Scorner, might merit the Bays before many men of that age.

Indeed his Doom was designed by his Enemies as far as Scotland, Co. & Ch. p. 126. at the Kings last being there, and such a distance, might deal some disadvantage to a Wiser Man. Yet the King at first intending but to let him loose, only to exercise him with the change of his chance, like as a rub to an overthrown Bowl, which proves oftentimes an help to the Caster, by hindering its course; but it fell out more fatal to him which lasted to the end, [Page] and thereby wrought its best use; In the midst of sufferings the bread of sorrow tastes better than the Banquet of fools; for afflictions brings such mens souls to be Saints at the Mark, which otherwise would be overgrown with too much Greatnesse.

His memorable abilities remain but in few, and his compassionate infirmities common to all. To expiate which he did as became him to do to the House of Peers [prostrate himself] and sins,Hist. G [...]. B [...]. p. 159. which ingenuously he acknowledged, promising amendment of his life, and made it good to the Worlds eye. Those excellent works contrived in his retirement, do evidently manifest his wit and worth, with much regret to many good men, that such an one, should be fallen off from the face of State.

In Bacons place comes Doctor Williams Dean of Westminster, Dr. Williams succeeds to be Lord keeper. by the Title of Keeper of the Great Seal of England, the same power and Jurisdiction as the Chancelour, see Statute quinto Elizab. which was not so besore. At first, but as Vice-Chancelour. Matthew Paris saith, Custodiam [...]igilli Regii accepit Cancelarii Vices Acturus & Officium, &c.

He was also then made Bishop of Lincoln together to make him more capable of the Office; [brought in,Co. & ch. pa. 139. sayes one, to serve turns, which no Lay-Man was bad enough to undertake.]

Former ages held it more consonant to reason to trust the Conscience of the Clergy with the case of the Lay-man, they best knowing a Case of Conscience, and antiently the Civil Laws were adjudged by the Ministers of the Church, and the Chancery, and other Courts of Equity, then in the charge of a Divine Minister.

And therefore a mistake in the Record that sets it down as a Wonder, for an Arch-bishop of Saint Andrews to be made Chancelour of Scotland by King Charles [a thing (he saies) not known in that Kingdom for three hundred years before,Reign of K. Charl [...]s, page 128. for a Clergy man to bear that office] But we find Iames Seaton, and David Seaton, both Arch-bishops of Saint Andrews, and Chancelours of Scotland, within one hundred years space. And many other Arch-bishops and Bishops within three hundred years, not only Chancelours, but Judges of the Law, Master of the Robes, and other Offices of Judicature; By which means, (their onely Bishopricks too poor) they advanced to degrees of wealth, enabling them to erect most of those sumptuous Fabricks of piety and Honour in that Nation, and so in England by our Clergy, by this man also in some measure.

So ran the Channel, till Bacons father had it from a Bishop, and now a Bishop has it again, and had King Iames lived to [Page] have effected his Desires, the Clergy had fixed firm footing in Courts of Judicature (out of the rode of the Common-Law) and this was the true cause of Williams initiation thither, his quality thus fitted for the Kings intention.

He was in truth Chaplain to Buckinghams Mother, and let into Court, parallel in some degree with Cardinal Richlieus entrance by Queen Mother of France, a Man may take view of these conformities, not few, if you consider proportions, what is allowed to the Jesuit must rebate of the Reformed, and what this man could not do in competition as the other, his aim shewed his will, but not the effect.

But at his entrance into this Trust, comes two Bills signed from the King to be made Patents by the Seal; the one for a Pension of two thousand pound per annum, and the other for the Office of Earl Marshal of England, both of them to be conferred upon the Earl of Arundel.

The first (though with some regret in those unseasonable times to receive such large pensions), which yet he sealed, but took upon him to trench upon the Lord Treasurer Middlesex, (who willingly gave way to it) for which they both had enmity ever after.Dignity of the Earl Marshal▪ of England.

The later he refused upon these Queries.

1. Whether in the Delivery of the Staff to the Earl, his Majesty did not declare it to him for ease of the other Commissioners that executed it before with him, and so to imply no inlargement of power, which this Patent doth?

2. Whether his Majesty means, that this Patent, leaping over the powers of the three last Earls, Essex, Shrewsbury, and Somerset, should refer only to Arundels own Ancesters, Howards and Mowbrays, Dukes of Norfolk, who claimed that place by Inheritance? the usual way and reference of Patents, being unto the last, and immediate Predecessor, and not to the remote; whose powers heretofore in these troublesome times, were vage, uncertain and impossible to be limitted.

3. Whether that this Lord, should bestow those Offices settled in the Crown, as Sir Edward Zouches in Court, Sir George Reynolds in the Kings Bench, and divers others, all which this Great Patent sweeps away, being Places of Worth and Dignity?

4. Whether my Lord Stewards place shall be (for all his power of Judicature is in the Verge) either altogether extinguished, or at least subordinate to the Office? A point considerable because of the Duke of Lenox, who was Steward, his greatness of Person, and neerness of blood to the King. And here he claws him.

5. Lastly, whether that the Offices of the Earl Marshall of [Page] England, and the Marshall of the Kings house (in former times distinct) shall be now united to this great Lord?

A power limitted by no Law or Record, but to be searched out from Heralds, Chronicles, Antiquaries, and such absolute Monuments; and thereupon this sixty years (for Essex his power was cleerly limitted, only as Marshall) unfit to be revived by the Policy of this State.

And by these queries the Patent was pared, which increased malice to the end of their Days.

Certainly there is a difference between the Earl Marshal of England, and the Marshal of the Kings House: See Lambert Archiron, or of the High Courts of Justice in England.

The Marshall of England, and the Constable are united in a Court, which handleth only Duells out of the Realm, and matters within, as Combats Blazon, Armory, but may not meddle with any difference tryable by the Laws of the Land.

The Marshal of the Kings Houshold is united in a Court with the Steward, which holds Plea of Trespass, Contracts and Covenants made within the Verge; and that by the Laws, Articl. super Cart. cap. 3, 4, 5.

The honour of Lord Marshal is so antient, as Thomas Lord Mowbray by Richard 2. was created Duke of Norfolk, and the first Earl Marshal of England, anno 1397.

And so successively unto Iohn Lord Mowbray, who dyed the 15. of Edward 4. anno 1475. and had issue one only Daughter, married unto Richard Duke of York, second son of Edward the fourth, and was by his Father created Duke of Norfolk and Earl Marshall of England, murthered in the Tower, anno 1483 without issue.

Then comes Iohn Howard (Son of the Daughter, and coheir of Thomas Mowbray Duke of Norfolk) and was by Richard the third created Duke of Norfolk, but not Earl Marshall. Nor was his Son Thomas, but Thomas his son was by H. 8. created Earl Marshal of England.

Afterwards was Seymer by Edward the sixth created Duke of Somerset, and Earl Marshal of England. And after him came the Grand-child of Thomas Mowbray, and was by Q. Mary created Earl Marshal of England.

Then Robert Devereux Earl of Essex made Marshal of England by Q. Elizabeth.

And now this Thomas Howard Earl of Arundel, and the last Earl Marshall of England.

But in time this Patent was divided, which his greatness intended to swallow up whole.

And because we have done with the Keeper and his Office, [Page] we will take our leave of him with this Character which here follows.

His Acts of Piety to the ragged and ruinous Church of Westminster, new clothing, warm and dry,L. Keeper his Character. adorned with the Statues and Structures of the antient English Saints, and in truth and merit, set up his Master King Iames amongst them. And though he sucked not the Milk of Oxford University, yet he founded a decent compleat Chappel to Lincoln College there, and erected the Library at Westminster, as also that Eminent Structure the Library of St. Iohns at Cambridge, where he had been Master for many years. He had a large heart to men of learning and Arts, and though his Stately gait, at a blush might present him to appear proud to the common Man, yet abating the nature of his Birth-place a Welch man, he was not so to conversation; for he made himself more familiar at the College School at Westminster, than at Court, not leaving that society and Mr. Osbastons Company, for the consort of Courtiers at Whitehall.

His bounty like that of Caesar, who gave gifts like a King, even to mean Beggars; witness a hundred pound gratuity to Monsieur du Molin a Minister of France, to welcom him hither, when, in the Judgement of his Chaplain 20 l. had been sufficient.

His blaze at Court lasted out this King, which by quarreling with Lawd the Arch-bishop afterwards, retired him to Bugden, where he lived the most Episcopal of any Priests his Predecessours; how he fell from that, and other waies after, from worse to worst of all, evil example being no rule to a Prelates conscience, we leave him dead to his last account, the time of Gods grace and mercy, 1652.

Amongst the factious party of this Parliament, were a knot of discontents, well mingled for Mutiny, high [...]born; Ambitious-bold, to bear out any complottings, which Subtilty suggested, and Hypocrisie dissembled, and got in also the plain meaning man, and altogether to supplant Order of Church and State; Other Characters would be counterfeit; a Halter take him that would mistake them, a fitter line for his long story. Indeed to busie these had been (junto of them) of whose disposition the King was justly sensible, and therefore thought fit to separate their contrivings, and by proroguing the Parliament the 4. of Iune, till Novem. 20. sent them home during his Summers Progress, and this he did, sudainly to see what they would do, which, as he suspected came forth in Declaration, thus.

The Commons fair Declaration to assist the King to recover the Palatinate.

[Page]

THE Commons assembled in Parliament taking into most serious consideration; the present State of the Kings children abroad, and generally afflicted estate of the true Professors of the same Christian Religion (professed by the Church of England) in foreign parts, and being truly touched with a true sense and fellow-feeling of their distresses, as members of the same body do with an unanimous consent in the name of themselves, and the whole Body of the Kingdom (whom they represent) declare unto his most excellent Majesty, and to the whole world their hearty grief and sorrow for the same; and do not only join with them in their humble, and d [...]vout prayers unto Almighty God, to protect his true Church, and to avert the dangers now threatned, but also with one heart and voice, do solemnly protest; That if his Majestyes pious endeavours by Treaty to procure their peace and safety, shall not take that good effect which is desired in Treaty (wherein they humbly beseech his Majesty not to suffer any longer delay) that then upon signification of his Majesties pleasure in Parliament, they shall be ready to the utmost of their powers, both with their Lives and Fortunes to assist him so, as that by the Divine help of Almighty God (which is never wanting unto those who in his fear shall undertake the Defence of his Cause) he may be able to do that with his Sword, which by a peaceable course shall not be effected.

This is well said, and the King put them to Tryal sor assistance in money, the sinews to help on the Treaty first, and for settlement of the future effects by the Sword in case the other failed.

And sundry overtures and propositions amongst themselves somewhat resolving, then again declined, and as with the houses, the like between the King and them, that nothing was concluded in pursuite of their fair promises and specious pretences, and so they part home to their Houses, and the King to his hunting.

And in Autumn returns to Hampton Court, where meets him Digby; come home from his Ambassy, with Answers dilatory, and doubtful, and therefore commands him to declare the particulars to the Parliament, which was now set from his last Recess.

He tells them,

[Page] That his Majesty commanded him to account to them his Negotiations with the Emperour, who upon advantage of fortune in the success of Bohemia, hath invaded the i [...]heritance of his Son the Palatine; That he was directed to treat of Peace, which he seemed to incline to, but the Dyet in Germany being deferred, they both suffered the delay by depending on it, and the Princes; in the end Restitution was promised of the Palatinate, which was only granted by Commission to the Duke of Bavaria, until it should be otherwise settled by Peace or War.

That the Emperours Letters addressed him to the Duke, wishing his tractable condescent to terms of peace; upon which occasion he urged that he had authority from the Palatine, to cause Count Mansfield to desist from War, and the like from the King to Sir Horace Vere.

That the Duke answered, He had becalmed Mansfield with money, who being at quiet, his peace was made. To which scornful reply something (he saies) was answered; and so departed to the Infanta at Bruxels, who seemed to understand by the Emperours Letters, his preparations rather for War than Peace, and would give no direct answer till she heard from the King of Spain; who (he confesses) stood at this t [...]me cleerly a Newter; yet is he now prepared with five great Armies in motion, which will not misbecome the Wisdome of State to fear the worst, and therefore for the Kingshonour, and his Sons right, he presumes they will contribute not only aid to the present support, but supply to invest his Son into his Inheritance.

But this, nor what else could be said by others, the true Ministers, and Patriots of State, could work ought out of the Parliament; for now, being put to it, they are hide bound; and yet have an excuse, That the King meant not to fight, for they were afraid he was forward in the Match with Spain, and trusted rather to treat that way; and therefore intend not to assist him with Money for a War abroad, nor support of his Wants at home.

But to shadow over their resolve, they prepare to expostulate these distempers, and lay down a pretended way to the Remedies, which the King understood by some of their own, ashamed to assist in such thwarting courses, when necessity at home, and honour abroad called for speedy redress.The King retires to New Ma [...]ket in discont [...]nt. And therefore the King in disdain to attend their slow Motions, leaves them to their lazy Committee, and whilest they are hammering out a Remonstrance, he took no leave but went to New Market.

And there with regret of the unking Parliament, together with the Miseries of the Reformed Churches in Germany; the persecution of the Protestants in France, besieged in Rochel and Montauban, the one by Count Soissons and the Duke of Guise; [Page] the other by that King; and Doncaster sent thither Extraordinary to mediate the Peace; which King Iames could not fight for with like Success, as usually words have prevailed with Swords; The King (I say) fell into deep discontent. Notwithstanding our Calumniator here, as in all other the like places [Loads the King with the loss of all] for not fighting without men or money.Hist. gr. B [...]. pa. 172.

[If the Kings spirit (saies he) had been raised up to a War when the voice of God, being the voice of the People called him to it, it might have hindred the great effusion of blood amongst our selves that happened after in his sons time.]

The consequence of all our sequel Miseries he derives from this King, which truly then and after came from the Houses of Parliament.

The King not so far off, but had his spies and Intelligence, with a Copy of the Remonstance, and thought to save them the labour, in a Letter to the Speaker, Sir Thomas Richardson.

Mr. Speaker,

K. letter to the Speaker.

WE have heard, to Our grief, tha [...] Our distance from the Parliament caused by Our indisposition of health; hath imboldned some [...]iery and popular Spirits of the Lower House, to debate Matters above their Capacity, to Our dishonour and breach of Prerogative Royall.

These are therefore to command you to make known to them, that none shall hereafter presume to meddle with any thing concerning our Government, or Matters of State, with Our Sons Match with the Daughter of Spain, nor to touch the Honour of that King, or any other Our Friends or Confederates. Nor with any Mans particulars which have their due Motion in Our Ordinary Courts of Iustice.

And whereas they have sent a Message to Sir Edwin Sandis to know the Reasons of his late Restraint, you shall resolve them, It was not for any Misdemeanour of his in Parliament; but to put them out of doubt of any question hereafter of that nature, we think our self very free and able to punish any Mans misdemeanours in Parliament, as well sitting there as after, which we mean not to spare hereafter upon any occasion of any mans; and if they have touched any points (which we have here forbidden) in any petition of theirs, which is to be sent to us, tell them (except they reform it) we will not daign the hearing, or answering.

New-Market; Decem. 3. 1621.

Iames Rex.

[Page] But on the Parliament will; yet to sweeten the bitter Pill, they accompany another Remonstrance with a Petition, to this effect they are put together.

Most dread and gratious Sovereign,

VVE your most humble and loyal Subjects,The Parliaments petition to the King. &c. in the Commons House of Parliament, full of grief, &c. through the sense of your Majesties displeasure, expressed by Letter unto our Speaker, and read unto us; yet comforted with assurance of your Grace and Goodness to us, and of the sincerity of our proceedings.

In all humbleness, &c. beseech the King.

That their Loyalties may not suffer by mis-information of partial Reports, but rather to understand from themselves what their humble Declaration and Petition doth contain; the occasion of their consideration of what is therein contained, and their intention.

They beseech his Majesty not to give credit to private Reports against all or any Member, until they inform him, and that they may stand in his Majesties good opinion.

The Remonstrance runs thus in effect.

That upon their last re-assembling, His Majesty did by three Lords impart to them these particulars following.

That notwithstanding the Kings piety to procure Peace, the time is now come that Janus Temple must be opened.

No hope of Peace nor Truce.

Either the King must abandon his children, or ingage in a War, and so to be considered what foot, horse and money sufficient?

That the Lower Palatinate was seized by the Army of the King of Spain, as the Executor of the Ban, then in quality of the Duke of Burgundy, as the Upper part was by the Duke of Bavaria.

That the King of Spain had five several Armies.

The Princes of the union disbanded, the Catholick League remains firm, to the ruin of the others, whose estate was miserable. And

That out of these considerations the Parliament were called to a War, and for supply for keeping forces together, to foresee the means for raising an Army against the Spring.

And accordingly they did address to that service. And being now invited thereto, and not only to look after a War abroad, but also for peace at home, with the increase and insolency of Popish Recusants, urge us unto.

The consideration hereof led them on, as incident and unavoidable to touch upon the King of Spain, as relation to Popish Recusants [Page] at home, and to the Wars by him maintained against your Children, but without dishonour to Him, or any of the Kings Confederates.

In which discourse they did not assume to determine, or to incroach [...]pon the Sacred bounds of your Royal Authority, to whom, and in whom only it belongs to resolve of peace or War. But as humble subjects to demonstrate these things to his Majesty, and humbly to lay it down at his feet.

This being the effect of their resolves in their Declaration and Petition.

They humbly desire his Majesty to receive them by those their Messengers with favourable interpretation, and to so much as concerns Papists, the passing of Bills, and granting his Pardon royal, that he will be pleased to answer.

And concerning those General Words in the Kings Letter, Not to intermeddle with Matters of Government, or particulars which have motion in the Courts of Iustice; may involve those things which are proper subjects of Parliamentary Discourse.

And that his Majestie seems to abridge them, freedom of Speech, and Liberty of Parliament, &c. they desire his Majesty, to allow them the same.

And pray for his Majesty, &c.

Twelve select Members are sent herewith, whereof Sir R. Weston was the leading Man intrusted to read them. And untill their return with some satisfactory answer, they resolve not to proceed to any business in the house, but muttering there was, though they durst not speak out.

The King understanding the silent humour of their Action, and being yet desirous to have the time better husbanded, Christmasse being at hand commands his Secretary Calvert to deliver this message to them in Speech, and afterwards in Writing.

His Majesty remembring that this House was desirous to have a Session between this and Christmass,The Kings Mess [...]ge by Secretary Calvert. it pleased him thereupon to signifie unto us, that we should have contentment herein, and that there should be a Session, if we our Selves were not in fault, taking now notice that we forbear to proceed with any Bills until the return of the Messengers lately sent to his Majesty, hath warned me to command the House in his name not to lose time in their proceedings, for preparing good Laws in the mean while, and in consideration of the neer approach of Christmasse. And that his Majestie hopes, We will not take upon us to make a Recess in effect, though not in shew, without his warrant.

[Page] But some captious pates take exceptions, as tending to breach of privilege, by commanding them to proceed with Bills, and so spun out the time and did nothing till the return of their Messengers, whom the King receives not with overmuch kindness, knowing the effect of their former petitions, and observing the Contents of the later; and both reflecting on his Person and Government, which causeless aspersions, and therefore returns them with this answer to all.

The Kings Answer to their Petition.

VVE must here begin in the same fashion that We would have done if your first Petition had come to our hands before we had made a stay thereof; which is to repeat the first words of the late Queen Elizabeth of famous memory, used by her in answer to an insolent Proposition which a Polonian Ambassadour made, that is, Legatum expitamus, Heraldum accipimus. For we had great reason to expect that the first message from your house should have been a message of thanksgiving for our continued gratious behaviour towards our people since your last Recess. Not only by Our Proclamation of Grace, wherein were contained six or seven and thirty Articles, all of several points of Grace to the People; but also by the labour we took for the satisfaction of both Houses in those three Articles recommended unto us in both their Names by the right Reverend Father in God. the Arch-bishop of Canterbury, and likewise for the good Government of Ireland we are now in hand with at your Request. But not only have we heard no news of all this; but contrary great complaints of the danger of Religion within this Kingdom, tacitly implying Our ill Government in this point. And we leave you to judge whether it be your duties, that are the Representative Body of our People, so to distaste them with our Government, whereas by the [...]pntrary it is your duty with all your endeavour, to kindle more and more in duty for our gratious Government.

Now whereas in the very beginning of this your Apology, you tax us in fair terms, of trusting uncertain Reports, and partial informations against your proceedings. We wish you to remember that We are an old and experienced King, needing no such Lessons, being in Our Conscience, freest of any King a live from hearing or trusting idle Repotts; Which so many of your House that are neerest Us can bear witness unto you, if you would give as good ear unto them as unto some Tribunitial Orators amongst you; And for proof in this particular We [Page] have made your own messengers confer your other Petitions sent by you with the copy thereof, which was sent us before, between which there is no difference at all, but that since the receiving the first Copy, you added a Conclusion unto it; which could not come to our hands till it was done by you, and your messengers sent, which was all at one time. And if we had had no Copy of it before-hand, we must have received your first Petition to our great Dishonour, before we had known what it contained, which would have inforced us to return unto you a far worse Answer then now we do. For then your Messingers had returnd with nothing, but that we have judged your Petition unlawful & unworthy of an Answer; for as to your Conclusion therof it is nothing but Protestatio contraria facto; for in the body of your Petition, you usurp upon our Prerogative Royal, and meddle with things far above your reach; and then in the Conclusion you protest the contrary; as if a Robber would take a mans purse, and then protest he meant not to rob him. For first you presume to give us your advice concerning the Match of Our deerest Son with some Protestant, we cannot say Princess, for we know none of these fit for him, and disswade Us from his Match with Spain, urging Us to a present War with that King, and yet in the Conclusion, forsooth, you professe you intend not to press upon our most undoubted and Regal Prerogative, as if the petitioning of Us in matters that your selves confess you ought not to meddle with, were not a meddling with them.

And wheras you pretend that you were invited to this course by the Speeches of three honourable Lords, yet by so much as your selves repeat of the Speeches, nothing can be concluded but that we were resolved by War to regain the Palatinate, if otherwise we could not attain unto it. And ye were invited to advise forthwith upon a Supply for keeping the forces in the Palatinate from disbanding, and to foresee the means for the raising and maintaining of the Body of any Army for that War against the Spring.

Now what inference can be made upon this? that presently we must denounce War against the King of Spain, break our dearest Sons Match, and match him to one of our Religion, let the World judge! The Difference is no greater than if we would tell a Merchant that we had great need to borrow money from him for raising an Army, that thereupon it should follow, that we are bound to follow his advice in the Directions of the War, and all things depending thereupon.

But yet not contenting your selves with this excuse of yours, which indeed cannot hold water, ye come after to a direct contradiction to the Conclusion of your former Petition, saying, [Page] that the Honour and safety of Us and our Posterity, and the Patrimony of our children, invaded and possessed by their Enemies, the welfare of Religion and State of our Kingdome, are matters at any time not unfit your deepest consideration in Parliament.

To this generality we answer with the Logicians, That where all things are contained nothing is omitted. So as this Plenipotencie of yours invests you upon all power upon Earth; lacking nothing but the l'opes to have the Keys also both of Heaven and Purgatory. And to this vast generality of yours, we can give no other answer, for it would trouble all the Lawyers in the House, to make a good Commentary upon it. For so did the Puritan Ministers in Scotland, bring all kind of Causes within compass of their juris [...]iction, saying, that it was the Churches Office, to judge of slander, and there could no crime or fault be committed, but there was a slander in it, either against God, their King, or their Neighbour, and by that means they looked into themselves the cognizance of all Causes; or like Bellarmines Distinction of the Popes power over Kings in ordine ad spiritualia, whereby he gives him all Temporall Jurisdiction over them.

But to give you a direct answer to the matters of War, for which you are so earnest; We confesse we rather expected you should have given us thanks for the so long maintaining a settled Peace in all our Dominions, when as all our Neighbours about are in miserable combustion of War, but dulce bellum inexpertis, and we indeed find by experience, that a number of our Subjects are so pampered with Peace, as they are desirous of change, though they know not what.

It is true that we have professed (and in that mind with Gods grace, we will both live and die) that we will labour by all means possible; either by Treaty or force to restore our Children to their antient dignity and Inheritance, and whatsoever Christian Princes and Potentates, will set themselves against it, we will not spare any lawful means to bring ou [...] so just and honourable purpose to a good end. Neither shall the Match of our Son, or any other worldly respects be preferred to this our Resolution.

For by our credit and intervention with the King of Spain, and the Arch-Dutchess and her Husband, now with God, we preserved the Lower Palatinate one whole year, from any further conquering in it, which in any eight dayes space in that time might have easily been swallowed up by Spinola's Army, without any resistance; and in no better case was it now at our Ambassadour the Lord Digby's coming through Heidleburgh, if we had not extraordinarily succoured it.

[Page] But because we conceive that ye couple this War of the Palatinate with the cause of Religion, we must a little unfold your eyes herein.

The beginning of this miserable War which hath set all Christendome on fire, was not for Religion but only caused by Our Son in law his hasty and rash Resolution, following evil Counsel to take to himself the Crown of Bohemia; and that this is true, himself wrote Letters to Us at that time, desiring Us to give assurance both to the French King, and to the State of Venice, that his accepting of the Crown of Bohemia had no reference to the cause of Religion, but only by reason of his right of Election (as he called it.) And we would be sorry that that aspersion should come upon our Religion, as to make it a good pretext for disthroning of Kings, and usurping their Crowns. And we would be loath that our people here should be taught that doctrine.

No, let Us not so far wrong the Jesuits, as to rob them of their sweet Positions and practice in this point. And upon the other part, we assure our selves so far of your charitable thoughts of us, that we would never have constantly denyed our Son in Law both the title and assistance in that point, if we had been well-perswaded of the justice of his quarrel. But to conclude this unjust usurpation of the Crown of Bohemia and Hungaria from the Emperour, hath given the Pope, and all that party, too fair a ground, and opened them too wide a Gate for curbing and oppressing of many thousands of our Religion in divers parts of Christendom.

And whereas you excuse your touching upon the King of Spain, upon occasion of the incidents by you repeated in that place, and yet affirm, it is without any touch to his Honor. We cannot wonder enough that ye are so forgetful, both of your words and writs; for in your former Petition you plainly affirm, that he affects the Temporal Monarchy of the whole Earth, then which there can be no more malice uttered against any great King, to make all other Princes and Potentates both envy and hate him.

But if you list it may be easily tryed, whether that speech touched him in honour or not, if we shall ask him the question, Whether he means to assume to himself that Title or no? For every King can best judge of his own Honour; we omit the particular Ejaculations of some foul-mouthed Oratours in the House against the honour of his Crown and State.

And touching your excuse of not determining any thing concerning the Match of our dearest Son, but only to tell your opinion, and lay it down at our feet.

First, we desire to know, how you could have presumed to [Page] determine in that point without committing of High Treason.

And next, you cannot deny but your talking of his Match after that manner, was a direct breach of our Commandment and Declaration out of our own Mouth, at the first sitting down of this Parliament; where we plainly professed, that we were in Treaty of his Match with Spain, and wished you to have that confidence in our Religion and Wisdom, that we would so mannage it as our Religion should receivt no prejudice by it. And the same we now repeat unto you, professing that we are so far ingaged in that Match, as we cannot in honour go back, except the King of Spain perform not such things as we expect at his hands: and therefore we are sorry that ye should shew to have so great distrust in us, or to conceive that we should be cold in our Religion, otherwise we cannot imagine how our former Publick Declaration should not have stopped your Mouths in this point.

And as to your Request, that we would now receive your former Petition. We wonder what could make you presume that we would not receive it; whereas in our former letter, we plainly declared the contrary unto you, and therefore we have justly rejected that suit of yours. For what have you left un-attempted in the highest points of Sovereignty in that petition of yours, except the striking of Coin? for it contains the violation of Leagues, the particular way how to govern a War, and the Mariage of our dearest Son; both Negative with Spain, nay with any Popish Princess, and also Affirmatively, as to the matching with one of our Religion; which we confess is a strain beyond any Providence or Wisdom God hath given to us, as things now stand.

These are unfit things to be handled in Parliament, except your King should require it of you; For who can have wisdome to judge of things of that nature, but such as are dayly acquainted with the particulars of Treaties, and of the variable or fixed connexion of Affairs of State, together with the knowledge of the secret ways, ends and intentions of Princes in their several Negotiations? otherwise a small mistaking in matters of this Nature, may produce more effects, than can be imagined. And therefore Ne sutor ultra crepidam.

And besides the intermeddling in Parliament with matter of Peace or War, and mariage of our dearest Son, would be such a Diminution t [...] us, and to our Crown in Foreign Co [...]ntreys, as would make any Prince neglect to treat with us, either in matters of Peace or Marriage, except they might be assured by the assent of Parliament. And so it proved long ago with a King of France, who upon a trick procuring his States to dissen [...] [Page] from some Treaty which before he had made, was afterwards refused Treating with any other Princes to his great reproach, unless he would first procure Assent of his States to their Proposition. And will you cast your eyes upo [...] the late times, you shall find that the late Queen of famous memory, was humbly petitioned by a Parliament to be pleased to marry; but her answer was, that she liked their Petition well, because it was simple, not limitting her to any place or person, as not befitting her liking to their fancies; and if they had done otherwise, she should have thought it a high presumption in them. Judge then, what we may do in such a case: having made our publick Declaration already (as we said before) directly contrary to that which you have now petitioned?

Now to the point in your Petition, whereof you desire an answer as properly belonging to the Parliament.

The first and greatest point is that Religion, concerning which at this time, we can give you no other answer then in the General, which is, that you may rest secure, that we will never be weary to do all we can for propagation of our Religion, and repressing Popery. But the manner and form ye must remit to our care and providence, who can best consider of times and Seasons; not by undertaking a publicb War of Religion through all the World at once; which how hard and dangerous a Task, it may prove, ye may judge. But this puts Us in mind, how all the World complained the last year of plenty of Corn, and God hath sent us a cooling card this year for that heat. And so we pray God, that this desire amongst you of kindling war (shewing your weariness of peace and plenty) may not mak [...] God permit us to fall into the Miseries of both.

But as we already said, our care of Religion must be such as on the one part, we must not by the hot persecution of Our Recusants at home, irritate Foreign Princes of contrary Religion, and teach them the way to plague Protestants in their Dominions, with whom we dayly intercede, and at this time principally to ease them of our profession that live under them. Yet upon the other part; we never mean to spare from due and severe punishing of any Papist that will grow insolent for living under our so mild Government.

And ye may also be assured we will leave no care untaken, as well for the good Education of the youth at home, especially the children of Papists, as also for preserving at all times hereafter, the youth that are, or shall be abroad, from being bred in dangerous places, and so poisoned in Popish Seminaries.

And as in this point, concerning the good education of Popish youth at home, we have already given some good proofs, both in this Kingdome and Ireland, so will we be well pleased [Page] to pass any good laws that shall be made either now or any time hereafter to that purpose.

And as to your request of making this a Session, and granting a general Pardon, it shall be in your defaults, if we make not this a Session before Christmass. But for the Pardon, you crave such particulars in it, as we must be well advised upon, least otherwise we give you back the double, or treble, we are to receive by your entire Subsidie without Fifteens. But the ordinary course we hold fittest to be used still in this case is, that we should of our Free Grace send you down a Pardon from the Higher House, containing such points as we shall think fittest, wherein we hope you shall receive good satisfaction.

But we cannot omit to shew you how strange we think it, that you should make so bad and unjust a Commentary upon some words of our former Letter, as if we meant to restrain you thereby of your antient Liberties and Privileges in Parliament. Truly a Scholar would be ashamed so to mistake, and misjudge any Sentences in another mans book.

For whereas in the end of our former Letter, we discharge you to meddle in matters of Government, and Myste [...]ies of State, namely, matters of War or Peace, or our dearest Sons match with Spain; by which particular denominations, we interprete and restrain our former Words; And then after we forbid you to meddle with such things that have their ordinary course in Courts of Iustice; yet couple together these two sentences, and plainly leave out these words, of Mysteries of State, so as ye erre, a bene divisis ad male conjuncta, for of the former part, concerning Mysteries of State, we plainly restrain our meaning to the particulars that were after mentioned; and in the later we confess we meant it by Sir Edward Cooks foolish business.

And therefore it had well becomed him, especially being our Servant, and one of Our Council, to have complained unto us, which he never did, though he was ordinarily at Court since, and never had access refused unto him.

And although we cannot allow of the stile, calling it your antient and undoubted Right and Inheritance, but could rather have wished that ye had said, That your privileges were derived from the Grace and permission of Our Ancesters and Us (for most of them grow from Presidents, which shews rather a Toleration than Inheritance) yet we are pleased to give you Our Royal assurance, that as long as you shall contain your selves within the Limits of your duty, we will be as careful to maintain and preserve your lawful Liberties and Privileges, as ever any of our Predecessours were, nay, as to preserve our own Royall Prerogative.

[Page] So your House had only need to beware to trench upon the Prerogative of the Crown; which inforce Us, or any just King to retrench them of their Privileges, that would pare his Prerogative and flowers of the Crown. But of this we hope there shall be never cause given.

New-Market, 11. December 1621.

Iames Rex.

§

This Answer on Tuesday returned to the House on Fryday following, raises a storm amongst them all, to talk freely, their privileges now violated, denied, infringed, and therefore committed the particulars to examinatiod. So that the more moderate amongst them in some doubt and discontent, how to mannage it for reconcilement, which caused an Explanation from the King directed to his Secretary Calvert from Royston, in his return homewards.

To Our Right Trusty and Well-beloved Counsellour, Sir George Calvert, one of our principal Secretaries.

Right Trusty, &c.

VVE are sorry,The K. Letter to Secretary Calvert. that our reiterated Messages to our House of Commons to go on, they continue yet to loose time. And now of late upon our gratious Answer, make more delay in appointing a Committee to consider of the points of our Answer concerning their privileges. You shall tell them, that to lessen misspent time, we shall descend to explain our meaning.

Concerning what we said, Not to allow of the stile, Their antient and undoubted right of Inheritance, which we wished that they had said, Were derived from grace and permission of our Ancestours, and Us, for most of them grow from Presidents, a Toleration rather than Inheritance. And the plain truth is, we cannot endure Subjects to use such Anti-Monarchical words to us; except subjoined with acknowledgement of grace and favor from us. Yet we never meant to deny them lawful privileges, as in former times, nor what they have right unto, or hy Grace now; and so we made that distinction, either by Law, or Statute, or long Custom, or lawful Presidents; and so we shall maintain them in their Rights. Therefore advises them to set afide wrangling, and proceed to that which is fit for the weal of his Crown and Kingdom, otherwise their curious shifts, maliciously from time to time found out, [Page] to frustrate the Kings good purposes to his Subjects, will come to light, and the Authors not thankfully rewarded.

Royston, Decemb. 16. 1621.

All these three several Admonitions of the Kings take no effect, for any obedience to follow, and therefore the King, desirous not to dissolve them, without some fruit, addresses another Letter to the Speaker Richardson.

Mr. Speaker,

Whereas at the humble suite of Our House of Commons,The Kings Letter to the Speaker. we made this Meeting a Session, before Christmasse, and so till Saturday next, and by our Letters to take away mistakings, we explained Our selves in points af their privileges; and all to little purpose for preparing things necessary for a Session, We think good once more to impart our mind, that (for the Reasons reiterated) we have an earnest desire to make it a Session, free pardon to the Subjects, and good Laws to be passed, as they have had both by the unusual examples of Iustice, and [...]ase and comforts by Proclamation. The passing of the Subsidie, the continuance of Statutes, and the pardon being the most pressing to be effected, and the pardon on his part now drawing up. So it concerns them the Act for the Statutes, And as for the Subsidie, though time presses, let that be no prejudice if left undon. For on Saturday next he expects their performance, that so they may go home to their habitations.

Theobalds December 17. 1921.

Nor does this any more prevail, but comes to be excused by way of Petition.

The Parliament return Thanks and Petition.

May it please your Most Excellent Majesty,

We the Knights,The Parliam. return thanks and petition. Citizens, [...]nd Burgesses, &c. after your Majesties Letter, read this morning full of grace and goodness, do return our most humble and hearty thanks, &c. And though we have been desirous to have some good Laws passed, and a Session before Christmass, yet entering into serious Consideration of those things to be prepared, and the straitness of time. They humbly submit to the Kings Wisdom for their departure, and for their re-access to perfect what is begun.

The Kings Reply.

[Page]

The King returns them Answer, How sorry he was this could not be made a Session. Excuses himself by his former Advisoes, and layes this blame before them to their face. He had given Order to adjourn to the eight of February next. And omits not to tell them that he expects other thanks, then as they sent to him, for his promises to maintain their privileges so often contained in his answers, and letters explained and inlarged.

But for all that, the King heard nothing; though this message was delivered to them the next Morning;The Parliaments Protestation, and having plotted a Thin House, and a late hour, six a clock at night in December, not a third part of their number, They enter a Protestation for their Liberties, in such dubious manner, as may and did for the future, serve to invade most of the Rights and Prerogatives annexed to the Crown; for grounding the claim of their Privileges upon the Words in the Writ of Assembling, the Contrivers of that Protestation craftily mentioned, Super arduis Regni Negotiis, but of purpose left out Quibusdam, which restrains that generality to such particular cases as the King consults with them upon, and the uncontroled customes of all times manifest: For the King or Chancelour usually declares what things those Quibusdam are, wherein he craves their advice and assistance.

And upon all which undutiful Protestation, the King is justly occasioned to publish his pleasure for dissolution of this Parliament, by Proclamation to this effect.

A PROCLAMATION for the dissolving the Parliament.

ALBEIT the assembling, continuing, and dissolving of Parliaments,Dissolved by Proclamation be a Prerogative peculiar to our Imperial Crown, yet We are pleased to acquaint our good Subjects with the reasons of all Our publick Resolutions and actions; intending to have made this the happiest Parliament in our time, without imputing (however) to the Major part of the Members any want of their duty, as hath been mutually exprest from either party.

Beginning in January with good harmony betwixt us, so as many ages past could not parallell the like. Their love to us, our Iustice to them, extended not only to private persons, but even upon the prime Officer of Our Kingdome, we found notwithstanding they mispent time in cavils; yet we gave longer time, continuing the Session till the eight and twentieth day of May, then the Recess till the fourth of June; Expressing that our Progress approaching, the [Page] necessity of our Council to attend us; the disfurnishing our Courts of Iustice so many Terms, and the long absence of Iustices of Peace and deputy Lieatenants, from their necessary duties in the Countrey.

Then we sent them word, we would hear and answer all businesses at an appointed time. They are notwithstanding in jealousie and expressed discontent; yet made not their address to us; and thereof we signified our pleasure to both Houses. The Lords submitted to our Resolutions, passed the Act for some especial Bills with commendation to the Commons, which they neglect. We therefore continued the Session for a Fortnight longer. Our self in person offered to the Lords the passing Bills, had thanks from them, which the Commons the same day refuse. The Grievances of England and Ireland, (though not presented to us) were rectified by Proclamations in both Realms.

But during this time of Recess we mediated with the Emperour by Our Ambassadour Digby; upon promise of assistance of Parliament in case that failed; then we reassemble the twentieth of November, and made known in particular all the transactions abroad, yet some Members took inordinate liberty to treat of Our prerogative not fit to be medled withall, of which we gave them warning.

[And so reciting all the particular passages before-mentioned.]

And therefore concludes, whereas the Assembly of Parliament was adjourned untill the eight of February now next ensuing, we minding not to continue it any longer, have thought fit to signifie our Resolutions with these reasons, willing and requiring the Prelates, Noble men and States, as also the Knights, Citizens, and Burgesses, and others, &c. to forbear to attend on the said day prefixed, and that the said Convention of Parliament, shall not be esteemed any Session of Parliament. And that we shall be glad to take hold of any good occasion, which we hope shall not be long, to call and assemble a Parliament again.

Westminster, the 6. of Ianuary 1621. 19.

Iac.

§

Hereupon the Members become Subjects again, and being vexed at their dissolve,Oxford and Southampton committed. sought their own excuses with scandall of the King. And with that which was prated then, and what our Historian devises now, base and treasonable abuses; The State wisely proclaims warning to any such insolent persons, intending to set a watch upon those of quality; and amongst them who should fall into the offence, but the Earl of Oxford, and therefore was committed to the Tower,Hist. Gr. Br. p. 190, 191, 192. and Southampton to the Dean of Westminster, and Sir Edward Hawly, a Confident of Oxfords to the Gate-house, and all of them close Prisoners, [Page] their several crimes were bold and dangerous Speeches aga [...]nst the King and Council, indeed Treasonable enough, if true.

Their Accusers were the Domestiques of the Widow, Lady Grisby, a Dame of Pleasure heretofore, but now declined that and turned House-keeper to such like as her self had been. Her Gay-lant was one Sir Iohn Wentworth, a man of a bold Spirit, and well born, but by ill-Husbandry much decayed in his Estate, the fitter to be wrought upon to betray Oxford and Hawly; for the most dangerous words, were table talk between them; They were all close imprisoned, and often examined; truly their friends were much afraid, that either their own guilt or the policy of skilful Examiners, of each Prisoner a part, might involve them all, into destruction. Southampton was best trusted in that, for he had been versed in questions and answers, under the nocency of Essex Treason; but therefore more to blame to whisper against his Soveraign now, that restored him in blood and raised him to preferment and honour.

Oxfords faults were accompted frailties, rather distempers of his natural condition, derivative from his Father, both of them debauched, and now this Man (not in malice to the King, but) in a wanton way of ranting, and only envy to Buckingham.

Hawly, heretofore a Student Templer, discontented with the Court, upon a mean account; a rough West-Countrey-Blade he was, and being too bold at a Mask in Court, had his Ear-ring torn out in the bussle, by a dogged ill-natured Scot, Maxwell, an Usher in Office there; who being challenged for the injury, Hawly was in hazard to suffer more by seeking his satisfaction this way, and for the present was committed to the Marshalses, until it increased muttering amongst the Inns of Court Men; who upon the like occasion) sided in this quarrel. The King, that knew how to caresse such Students, sent for Hawly, and told him, that he had considered of the Challenge occasioned from Maxwells duty to his Service, and therefore now, unwilling to take advantage of his restraint, sets him at liberty, only upon condition, to make good his Challenge, and himself would be second to his Man Maxwell; and bids defiance to Hawly to go on; if he durst; or else (quoth he) in true affection shake hands with him, and be all friends, and so that quarrel ended, but not Hawlyes malice to Maxwell.

But in this now, the King full of mercy, made not much of this Treasonable matter, but lodged them all, too long a time for such Spirits; It might be thereby to draw voluntary Confessions, or Petitions for pardon, but then, they all, being so neer a kin in the Crime must not dissent in the design, which [Page] was to be set free. In fine it was amongst their best Friends thus ordered.

A Noble Lady drest directly La Mode d' France, passed as a Stranger unsuspected,A design for their Release. to see the Lions and Wardrobe, and such Shews as the Tower affords, accompanied with a Gentleman acquaintance of the Gentleman Jaylors daughter, To whom he (for this occasion) made Court, and so had freedom of her Fathers lodgings. Where, after a Collation, they might be trusted into the neither end of his long Garden, but by no means to advance towards the Chamber window where Oxford lodged; who in this time and noise in the Garden, looked out upon them, and had Items by signs from the Gentleman (whom Oxford knew) to observe the disguised French Wench, and she the liberty to pick Dazies any where; and so in a careless guise (unsuspected) and French Tone, she sung, as to her self, which Oxford observed, all the Design, what was done against them all Prisoners, and what he should do in reference to their liberties.

Such another trick to Hawly, taught them two to be even-tongued, and so upon petition were released, on hard conditions untill Oxford besought Buckingham.

That since his Lordship was pleased to mediate with his Majesty for his freedome,Oxford supplicates Bu [...] kingham. he would procure it free from rubs, and so his obligation the greater, which he promises to pay to his Lordship whilst he lives.

Hen. Oxford.

§

And to piece with Buckingham; Busie bodies severally humoured. Oxford descended to be under his Vice-Admiral at Sea, and Hawly beneath him, a warm Summers business sufficient to warn them for hereafter. Southampton likewise upon submission, withdrew from Court into the Country, the wiser way.

These were thus punished, others were more crafty to cover their malice, but least they should do mischief by undermining, were sent of Errands out of the way into Ireland, and other where; to regulate disorders there, in which they had been so busily affected at home, some also ambitious, and too much popular, were lured in, and rewarded with Office or honor. Such was Sir Iohn Savile, the Knight for Yorkshire, made Controwler of the Kings Houshold and Privy Councelour, and yet paid for all [Active Spirits] saies one, indeed corrupted humours, which by several wayes were thus rewarded.

These were men of note;Hist. [...]r. Br. p 190, 191, 192. But we are told [that peoples tongues were set a work] and takes upon him to chronicle the words, so base, sordid, and trayterous, that no Civil Subject would dare [Page] to repeat of his Soveraign. Nay more, he imprints to memory, the abusive Pastimes, Pasquils, and Plaies set out (as he saies) in Foreign parts by Papists (and at home by Puritans) if not of his own making.

I remember well those times,Of Libels. wise mens thoughts were somewhat, and if amiss, fools talked, and amended nothing. Certainly a Princes fame and repute is to countenance them. Alexander could say, Regium est bene facere & Male a [...]dire.

And Nero despised that Pasquil,

Quis neget Aeneae Magna de stirpe Neronem?

Sustulit hic Matrem sustulit ille Patrem,

Et quosdam ad Iudicem dilatos ad Senatum affici graviore poena prohibuit.

Yet Queen Elizabeths cruelty cut off the hands of Stubs and Page upon a bloody Scaffold, for writing against her marriage with the Duke of Anjou; she lost much of the peoples love by that spectacle, which scared the Commons into fear, whether she were the right and not uncertain daughter of H. 8. but wise men could easily resolve it.

The oft repeated Story of the Merchant Bindet, for saying, He would make his Son heir to the Crown, meaning his House of that Sign; for which he was quartered within four hours after by Edward the fourth; and the Duke of Buckingham afterward made use of that Record to the Commons, against the succession of his Race for that Tyranny.

The like of Collingburn by Rich. 3.

The Rat, the Cat, and Lovel the Dog,

Rule all England under the Hog.

How should posterity know their demerits, if rigorous justice had been spared; for to suppress Pasquils were to make men seek them, and being found to prize them. Those of Fabritius Venito were condemned to be burnt, and so long were they sought for, but when permitted, they were instantly despised.

Who can silence them? Power cannot suppress Memorials. And it is to be pittied, that Princes are more affected with future fame than their present honestly.

It may not be amiss, to make strickt lawes against Libellers, but not for a good Prince to prosecute the rigour. But with wisdome to consider the convoy of such papers, whether Truths or Falsehoods; if mixed apparances, then to be neglected; if base and flat railing, to be despiced.

[Page]Indeed novel causes of Sedition upon apparent grounds, are to be answered and confuted by reason; so did that wise Statesman Caecil in his answer to calumnies that stroke at the State through his Sides; see before anno 1606. p. 364.

Such as are presented by Supplication for redress of errours, com [...] to be Libells when they are urged with popular subscriptions, or made publique ere they come to the State.

That of Humphery Earl of Gloucester, against the Cardinal of Winchester, was a Libel. Taxing the King of Dotage about the King of Scots Liberty, the Sale of Crown Iewels, his Charter pardon to the Cardinal for receiving his rents. Setting the Duke of Orleans at Liberty against Englands Friend, the Duke of Burgundy.

This fault was onely questioned, nothing done. Miseria summa ubi de injuria conqueri, pro delicto habetur.

Augustus writ to Tiberius, Noli in hac re indagare, & nimium indignari quenquam esse, qui de me loquatur Male; Satis est enim, si hoc habemus, ne quis Malefacere possit. And though Tiberius beheaded Cremutius for wor [...]s only, yet he could say. In Civitate libera cuiquam quoque liberum esse debere. Wise Princes may, weak Princes cannot suffer liberty of Judgements, nor indiscretion of Tongues.

But to counsel [...]uch Justice, were to assist Domitian to kill Gnats with his Dagger.

In a word, we have found the unhappy event of the late publique punishment upon Burton, Bostwick, and Prinn, Divine, Physitian, and Lawyer. Their crimes then were thought fit in policie to be punished, but were taken up, in after time justified, when the time served the turn, to revenge that punishment.

It was wisely retorted by King Iames upon himself. A Country Clown told his Companion the London News, The King to marry his Son, to the King of Spains Daughter.

Why, saies his Friend, what of that?

He answered, For so our King will turn Papist.

Nay rather, replyed he, Ile cut his throat?

For which he was condemned at the County Assize. But the King heard of his Sentence; and said, By my sale, sal he not need to do that, ere Ile turn Papist, Ile cut my own throat, and gave him pardon.

But debosh spirits, distasting their own Miseries, are alwaies earnest in Novations, and desire a change of fortunes; and if they had power would sooner turn Traytors; such were some of them in this Kings time; by the effects since you may guess at them then.

We spake of Student Templers,The Kinghts Templers. These Houses heretofore [Page] had been a Covent of Red-fryars (for so I find them stiled) and afterwards men of the Sword got the possession, and were called Knights Templers, from that of Ierusalem, where they heretofore dwelt, and were instituted there by Baldwine King of Ierusalem, anno 1100. and created by Pope Gelasius, anno 1117. continuing two hundred years, untill they were supprest [...]bout Edward the first his time, anno 1300. and their Substance of great wealth given to the Knights of the Rhodes by Pope Clement the fifth.

The Romans say, They fell away from Christianity to the Sarazens, and lode them with inormous Crimes. But, and in truth others say, their destruction grew from siding with the Germain Emperour against the Pope, and these Authors are Bo [...]atius, Villanus, Antonius, and others. Indeed they were Enemies to the sins and corruptions of the Court of Rome and Clergy. And all Authors conclude, That however sundry of them had been accused of Crimes, yet they indured cruel torments without confession of guilt.

Paulus Aemilius stories one of them, Iames Burgond, the principal of that Order, and two others of great Birth, who suffered exquisite tortures and dyed in the [...]lame, innocent Martyrs. And Plessis saith, that other Authors report, That two Cardinals being present, Burgond summoned Pope Clement the fifth, before the Tribunal of God, to answer that injustice, and that the Pope dyed the same day. Besides the Clause inserted into the Condemnatory Bull, Quanquam de jure non possumus tamen pro plenitudine potestatis dictum Ordinem reprobamus.

But in a word their great wealth, was one Notable bait to the Popes, and the Gulf of other Orders, Hospitalers, Knights of the Rhodes, and St. Iohns. All these together smack this Order, and swallowed their Riches at one time; by consent of all the Princes in Christendome, where they had their habitations.

Length of Peace necessarily increasing swarms of people,Massacre of the English in Virginia. it was politickly permitted to disburthen this land by Foreign Plantations into the vast Continent of America, unhabited (as is before touched in Anno 1614.) and since that time, pursued with above fourty sail severally trading to Virginia, New England, and other parts of that Coast, with transportation to this year of above three thousand five hundred seventy persons (according to a list) in several Colonies and Towns built, for mutual trade with the Natives, being brought with much kindness, so communicable, as to be hired servants into private families. But at last maliciously envying at the English, consult with themselves to massacre all at an instant; their intent failing in the whole, they found means to murther three hundred [Page] fourty seven persons, being but the eleventh part of the twelve parts of the rest.

The customary practice of the Indians, is to disperse themselves into several Colonies, as naturally affecting division, under sundry Governours Supreame; yet now in policy confederate amity, to work their Design for destruction of all the English, through out all Colonies at once, separate and very remote. But their plot necessarily to be divulged in common, not mistrusting discovery from any of their own. Yet it pleased God in mercy to put it into the Mind of an Indian servant to one Pace, to discover it to him overnight; who first securing his own Habitation, with all possible speed gave waruing to each Plantation, by several intelligence, and saved the rest, but in the fury three hundred fourty seven were slain. And since that time the English are more wary to guard their houses. And as the best Maxim in policy to separate the conjunct affections of their Indian Kings to make themselves the more secure.

It was the Spanish policy that got them the two rich Kingdomes of Peru, and Mexico in America, for the two heirs Brothers Attapalippa and Gasco, quarrelling for the Kingdom, each striving to gain the Spaniard to friend, Francis Pizacro managing their differences for his own ends, stripped them both of Peru.

So did F [...]rdinando Cortes vanquish Matezumo, and got Mexico by the Neighbour Friendship of the Province of Tascala, deadly Enemies; for which service that Province is freed from Tax for ever.

So did the Romans advantage overcome Great Brittain, as Tacitus sayes, Ita dum singuli pugnant universi vincuntur.

And Iustin hath the same with the Grecian Cities.

And hereupon King Iames furnished these Plantations with ammunition and arms out of his own store-house at the Tower at his charge.

There were likewise shipped unto Summer Islands (so named from the first sinder and Planter Sir George Summers) alias Burmudoes, above a thousand persons, and nine Ships to transport them and to trade, who have since so increased that they are forced to fly to the Main for elbow-room, see before anno 1614. Page 400.

The King and Parliament asunder,Digby sent to Spain to treat in the Match. it was resolved with his Councellours to speed Digby into Spain Extraordinary, to proceed in the Treaty of the Match; Sir Francis Cottington Lieger there; form whom Digby had knowledge of that Kings Progresse, towards the North of Spain, to Lerma, a Town in Biscay, whether the Duke thereof, a sublime Favourite, had invited the King to his Princely New Pallace; which might save [Page] Digby the trouble and discommodity of riding many leagues to Madrid, to meet there, though it is to be understood by those that know, that the Court and Council, and State of Spain, are said to be alwaies residing in Madrid in New Castile, for receiving Ambassadours, and making dispatches; yet the amity of Digby with that Council, hoped now to alter that Custome, in favour of this urgent affair and him. And therefore lands, as the time and weather would afford, the neerest Port Saint Andrews in Biscay; there he stayes; sends his Secretary to Madrid, to signify to Cottington his arrival, and reason for resting there, as yet, intimating that if he could surprize the King at Burgos or Lerma, so far neerer his return home, might there also hasten his dispatch upon that so reasonable consideration.

The King in complement told Cottington, That he hoped the Ambassadours business was of more weight than to be taken up in the road, where it became not his Majesty to return him back to his Master without entertainment of the Court of Spain.

But Digby understood this as State formality, and pressing his own conveniency, was at last ordered to have audience at Lerma; whereupon Digby might say, without merit of a scoff. [That it was the first President of honour to an English Ambassador, Hist. Gr. Br. p. 193. and to his person a particular favour.]

And so he sest forward to Burgos, where Cottington meets him, whom he returns back twenty miles to Lerma, upon serious affair, to prepare some of the Council with such interests, as were intrusted, besides his sealed Commission, resolving himself to follow at the heels, with surprize rather than Ceremony. Yet the Kings Coaches came to wait on him neer Lerma unto Villa Mansa, where he reposed till the Conde de Salazera Maior-Domo, one of the Kings Stewards, the Conde de Villa Madena, Correjo Major, or Chief Post-Master, and the Viscount Toriza, accompanied with several attendants, conducted the Ambassadour to Court.

Thus far, and in truth was the passages of Digbyes Reception, which our Author abuses with base absurdities.

Abbot Arch-bishop of Canterbury, Arch-bishop Abbot kills his Keeper. aiming with a Cross-bow at a Deer in Bramzel park, killed his Gamekeeper with the Arrow, for which act having his hand in blood, he is by CommonLaw to forfeit all his estate, and by the Cannon-Law, irregular, ipso facto, and to be suspended from all Ecclesiastical function, until he be restored.

This troubled the King what to do; Not to add to his affliction, and to leave virum Sanguinum Primate and Patriarch of all his Churches, [...]ounds harsh to the old Councells and Cannons; upon either the Papists would descant; and therefore it was referred to the Lord Keeper Williams, five Bishops, the two Chief [Page]Iustices, and two Civil Lawyers, who certifie so much; and so he not being received into the full use of the Ministery, himself forebore the Council Table, as he told me in these words, Since they will have it so, that I am incapable of the one, I shall spare my self the trouble of the other. But he enjoyed the benefit of that See whilest he lived.

Much displeased he was (I well remember) with the Court and Clergy; for Doctor Lawd refused consecration of St. David by his hand, being tainted with blood; but the Other was quit with him, for underhand he caused it to be burited abroad, That Lawd was by Puritans reputed a Papist in Oxford. And to justifie that his function was not weakned by that Mischance, he procured Commission to inquire, Whether casual homicide was not excepted in the Cannon? In which he was satisfied that it was not; and so retired from his Magnificent Structure, his Almeshouse at Guilford, to his Palace at Lambeth, where the air of the Court, breathing so neer, and yet at this little distance he not admitted there; he fell upon down right Puritan Tenents, which gave occasion to many discontents of our Church and State to visit him, then so frequent, that they called themselves Nicodemites, and his Disciples. And I observed very often (perhaps therefore) that the Arch-bishop constantly, with candle-light in his Chamber, and Study, made it midnight at Noon-day.

And here he began to be the first Man of Eminency in Our Church, a Ring-leader of that Faction, for I can name those then, his private Disciples, which lately appear desperate Proselytes.

The Tenents of Arminianism, Ministers ordered in preaching. which the King feared had infected the Pulpit, with so much heat, that it inflamed each opponent, so that to Suppress the danger of the one, and to regulate the disorder of the other, both offensive to the State, the Arch-bishop of Canterbury had letters to settle their sick brains to this effect.

The Kings Letter to the Arch-bishop.

Most Reverend Father in God, right trusty and intirely beloved Counsellour, we greet you well.

That the extravagancies of Preachers in the Pulpit, have been reformed in the Realm by some Act or Council of State, with the advice of learned Prelates. Insomuch that the very licensing of Preachers, had beginning by Order of Star-chamber the eighth of July 19. H. 8. And that at this present divers young Studients, by reading of late writers, and ungrounded Divines, do broach unsound and seditious Doctrines, to the Scandal of the Church, and disquiet of the State, and that humble [Page] representations have been to the King of these inconveniences by the Arch-bishop,Anno 1622. and other Reverend Prelates of the Church, besides his Princely zeal for extirpation of Schism and Dissention, proceeding from those seeds; And for the settling of a Religious and Peaceable Government in Church and Commonwealth, does by these charge and command you, to use all possible care and diligence, that these limitations and cautiono herewith sent you, concerning Preachers, be duly observed by Each Bishop in their Iurisdictions to be communicated to each Minister in Cathedral and Parish Churches, of which we expect strickt account. Windsor August 4. 1621.

The Directions sent with the Letter in six Articles.

1. That no Preacher [...]nder the degree of Bishops or Deans, fall into any set discourse or Common place, which shall not be warranted in Essence, Substance and Effect, or Natural Inference with some one Article of Religion set forth anno one thousand five hundred sixty two,By 6 Artic [...]es or in some of the Homilies by authority of the Church of England.

2. That none shall preach after noon, on Sundays, or holy days, but on some part of the Catechism, or of the Creed, Decalogue, or the Lords prayer; and to incourage such Preachers as exercise children in their Catechism, which is the most landable custome of teaching in the Church of England.

3. That no Preacher under the Degree of a Bishop or Dean, do preach the deep points of Predestination, Election, Reprobation, or of the universality, efficacy, resistibility of GODS GRACE, but leave these Theams for godly and learned men, and that moderately and modestly, by way of use and application rather then of positive Doctrines, being fitter for the School, then simple Auditories.

4. That no Preacher soever shall presume in any Auditory, to declare, limit or bound out, by way of positive doctrine, the Power, Prerogative, Iurisdiction, authority, or duty of Sovereign Princes, or meddle with matters of State, and the differences between Princes, and the people, but rather confine themselves to faith and good life, which are all, the subject of the antient Sermons and Homilies.

5. That no Preacher shall causlesly (without invitation from the Text) fall into bitter invectives, undecent railing Speeches, against the persons of Papists or Puritans, but rather free both the doctrine and discipline of the Church of England, from the aspersing of either Adversary.

6. That the Bishops be more wary in the choice and licencing of Preachers. And that all the Lecturers throughout the Kingdom (a new body severed from the antient Clergy, as being neither Parson, Vicar, nor Curate) be licensed henceforth in the Court of faculties, but only from a Recommendation of the party, from the Bishop of the Diocess under his hand and Seal, with a Fiat from the Archbishop [Page] of Canterbury, a Confirmation under the Great Seal of England.

I well remember these times, the invectives of the Pulpits,The misbehaviours of the Pulpit. which truly the wisdom of State thought fit to suppress. The Non-conformist nestled himself into a Lecture, by that means depending onely upon the devotion of the Parish, was that way preferred without the favour of the Bishops. And first insinuating into the women, Wife, Daughter and Maid, infusing at their homes such doctrines as might easily catch their weak pallates, and thereupon begat the frequent writing of Notes from their preaching in publick, as it would astonish the indifferent Reader, to meet with their Blasphemies and miserable Nonsense Notes. And truly, those Lectures, wounderfully haunted by such people, in after Noon Sermons on working days, with such Stuff as savoured nought but railing against the Papist, or our Church discipline.

The looseness of Servants took liberty almost every day in the week to be easied in their Labour and Callings to pretend devotion in this Ordinance of hearing Lectures in some or other Church, untill their Masters complained of that Custome.

These Articles therefore were seasonably published to regulate the Ministery,Catechising again commanded. and to order the catechising of children and Servants, which Godly and effectuall Way of teaching, the King had often hinted heretofore, but could never sufficiently reduce the Lecturers to obedience thereto, See Anno 1603. Pag. 300.

What could the care of the King do more, to destroy the seeds of Dissentions? Yet herein how captious Our Author observes.

[That these directions were to be observed with Caution,Hist. Gr. Br. p. 201. peaceable compor [...]ment, that is saies he) Papist and Puritan's quiet, being Equilibero, the Papist in the prime scale.]

[That the Lecturer is not to be endured, unless he pass the Bryars through all Courts to the Broad Seal (a pingeant Ordial Trial) with his Teste me ipso, and so becomes Orthodox, So that (saies he) the Lecturers are implicitely forbidden, by the inaccessible charge and trouble to come to it.

That the Preachers by an Order of Star-chamber in Heaven were licensed, Ite predicate before any Henry 's time, and so bids them learn, least that Spirit (from whom they receive the Spirit) bind not them up.]

And indeavours to perswade [That the Papist did forment the Animosity of the King against Puaitans;Papist and Puritan coupled. That Bishop Lawd his Agent, though in Religion he had a Mothly form (and quotes a [Page]Priest in Flanders that told him so) was now become Buckinghams Confessor, under the Court Livery, and (assures the Reader) that the King once thought him so; though now he became the bellowes to blow the fire for the Papist, to put the King upon all Projects and Monopolies, to sow the seeds of division between Puritan and Protestant (for all were Puritans with the high-grown-Arminianpopish party, that held the Doctrine of the Reformed Churches.

And it is somewhat true as he remembers Us [That the Courtier (Minister, or Lay) they called Regians. Regians and Republicans, page 202. who (saies he) swell up Prerogative even to all, that the people had but a bare being, which in mercy was left to them poor Republicans. That more reverence was done by the Clergy to the King than to God. And that the Iudges to inslave the people gave sacred and Oraculous Titles of the K. as of God.]

But (saies he) the well-affected by writing and discourse sought to warm the Kings cold temper with fresh spirits into his chilled vains in this divided Kingdom. So he

This stuff smells rank of the Doctor, that refined our dead Historians work, and put it out in print as we have it. Certainly he had heretofore passed the Pikes to be a Preacher, and run through this Ordial-Tryal of his Text-ship; who in those daies might well deserve a Duns-ship, but of late went out Doctor, to arm his Republicans (if any such men are) to be as arrant Rebels as himself, in what estate soever they shall chance to be lodged.

But because the Reader may have better satisfaction of those times,A modest defence. and Ecclesiastical policy then towards the Lay-Recusants (for such only was it needful to favour) the King was so Popishly addicted (as our Calumniator would inforce) that to the incredible exhaustment of his Treasure, he most zealously intreated for refreshment and favour unto all the Protestants in Europe (His Crown and Dominions and Denmark excepted.) The Swedes having lately provoked the Pole, had no other hope of Peace, those of France for the exercise of their Religion, those of the Palatinate, and all the neighbouring Protestants, the least conveniency to say their prayers, but by the Kings Mediation, And being advised by the late Assembly of Parliament, into this Milky way of Intercession and treaty abroad, what a preposterous Argument would it have been to desire those Mighty Princes, crowned and victorious, to grant clemency to them, and for himself to execute poenal Laws against the Papists.

The English Iesuit in France did design to frustrate this pious indeavour of the King, by writing a most malicious Book to the French King, inciting him and his three Estates to execute their Statutes upon the Hugonotes, as the like (they said) [Page] were here enacted against Catholiques. I would therefore advise with the most subtil States-monger, to chalk out a way for his Majesty to have mediated for grace to the Protestants, by executing at this time the severity of lawes upon the Papist. But hat this favour should amount to a Tolleration, is a most dull, and yet a most divilest construction.

A Toleration looks forward to the future, this favour backward,Calumnies against the K. only to offences past; and the Lord Keepers letter to the Judges is so to be understood; whereby if any Papist by them should be set at liberty, and should offend and laws again, the Justices may, nay must recommit him, and leave favour only to the King, to whom only belongeth Mercy.

Nay, more, let these two writs directed to the Judges be perused, by any rash censurors (as they were resolved by grave and learned men; to whom the King committed the penning) and it will appear the Papists were no more out of Prison, then with shackles about their heels, sufficient Sureties, and Recognizances, to present themselves at the next Assizes. So they being grasped in the custody of law, or rather imprisoned still, than with any liberty.

And in truth they were by this tender favour, to be reduced into a better behaviour, or otherwise upon tryal, the King was to recall his writ, and leave them to extremity. But if a Critique will conclude an Argument from the Devils Topicques, a converto ad abstractum, from a favour to some well-minded English Catholique, reasonably to be distinguished from others, what therefore, is the King turned Roman Papist, whose wise discourses, learned Writings, pious Exercises, Acts of Parliament, late Directions for catechising, Preaching, and all other professions, hath manifestly declared himself to all the World, an Orthodox resolved Protestant.

But the Spirits of wisemen are now satisfied that (those airy Representations of ungrounded fancies set aside) this Island of all the Countreys of Europe, was then the sole Nest of Peace, and true Religion, and the inhabitants most unhappy now, that they looked not up to Heaven, to give thanks for those mercies then.

Thus much the King had to do to keep these Men in obedience at home,Spanish match goes on. being intent also upon his honour abroad; And having yet in this time of Treaty, assisted Holland in an open way of Men and Money to ballance them with Spain, and Recruits dayly sent over; so plentiful, that sale was made of our men, more than they used. The Spanish Lieger took exceptions (and that justly) that in time of Confederacy, Treaty, and Union of a Match, such partiality was afforded to the Enemies of Spain, and no more interest of Confederacy with [Page] our King, than we with his Master. To balance both the King grants freedome alike to his Subjects to be called by Drum to either service, when it was evident that only one Regiment went away with the Lord Vaux to re-inforce the Army in Flanders, and seaven thousand were carried to Holland. Besides, it was intended more policy to the one, then equality to both, to be rid of the Papists, (which he sayes) infected the Kingdome. And whilst the Commissioners on both sides argue the Articles,Hist. Gr. Br. p. 203. the Pope no doubt meddled with Spain, in the Matters of Religion proposeable on that part.

It was prudence in the King to permit an active Man Mr. Gage his own subject, though Romish Catholique (for in businesses they are not such Bug-bears) to be at Rome to pry into the Popes actions; and did recommend the affair unto the Cardinals Ba [...]dino and Lodeviso, as the passages might correspend with disputes and differences in points of opinion, Moral and Divine. But in his letter to the King of Spain, disclaims any Treaty with the Pope, or to observe his rules in reference to his Son. Was it not an oversight (tro you) that some better affected Puritan was not put in for an Intelligencer: What mad Work such an one made once at the Popes Altar?

But not to spend Paper to answer such a Cutter of Cumminseed, Digby had express commands,

Not to wast time with the Spanish Delaies,Digby ordered by Letters how to proce [...]d. either for dispensation of the Match from Rome, or cessation of Arms in the Palatinate; H [...]idleburgh being then besieged, and the English Garrisons blocked up; Of all which the English Ambassadour, Sir Richard Weston at Bruxels, disputing with the In [...]anta, had no redress as the Copyes of the Dispatches intend; for he was commanded to represent the merits of his Master for sincere proceedings with the Emperour and Spain, upon protestation of their Extraordinary respect. However the Palatine had deserved, That the way is now pr [...]pared, that the English may have the honour to hold those places which are not in dispute, untill the general accomodation, without more amuze, or further treaty of Cessation, and before the whole Cou [...]trey be seized, or our Treaty ended. Refers him to the Dispatches, to be furnished with Arguments of unkindnesses, there notwithdrawing the Spanish forces, but leaving the business to discuss with the Emperour and Bavaria.

That the Infanta's Answers, with Recrimination altogether Minister jealousie of the Emperour and Spaniard, if he consent not; for if those things be not forthwith remedied, the King of England will recal his Ambassadour from Bruxells, as an unkindness, deserving from the Emperour. Not to be interpreted, as to reflect upon the intire affection, between those two Crowns of Us and Austria, being mntually promised, That as the King expects his Son [Page] in Laws dependance on his advise, or to be forsaken, so in the same measure it is just for Spain to decline the Emperour.

And concludes with this honourable Item; To carry things fair, without cause of distrust, if reality be perceived on their part in the Match, wherein the King excepts against their dull diligence depending only upon the Dispensation, and in returns of Queries and Objections.

But as the King will not be wearied with patience, so Digby is warned to be wary and watchful in the Overtures of the Pope, as a Postil unto the Articles of Spain (which Gage got, and gave warning of here.) And to admit of no more respite then two Moneths, and no more at all.

That so their resolution will be before Christmass.

Wansted 9. of September 1622.

Thus much to Digby.

But whether Digby pressed these particulars, the Palatinate, Digby is faulty was at the brinck or last cast, in Frankendale, now blocked up: The Popes captious capitulations in reference to the Dispensation, obtruding and intruding Novelties, never as yet disputed.

Yet he plainly tells the Spanish Council (the old King lately dead) If these offers of his Master be not ballanced with the like from theirs, without loss of more time, he is commanded to take leave and return home.

But ill news hath wings; the loss of the English Men, and the Palatines Country, came faster to the King, then could be supposed by Digby, who it seems was loth to leave the imployment in suspence, for any other to negotiate; or, by discovering the Spanish deceipt, to give end to any absolute breach; for here at home he was somewhat suspected not to deal fairly abroad, which as yet the King was loath to see; And therefore quickens him again, with the particular relations of the losses of the Towns in the Palatinate, Heidleburgh forced,Second Letters peremptory. the Garrison put to the Sword, Manheime besieged, and the Infanta not commanding Cessation, wherein she had absolute authority, and that these effects give the King reasons to recal all his Ambassadours.

Weston (now Chancelour of the Exchequer) and the Lord Chichester from Bruxels, having trusted to Treaties, which probably might have secured the remainder of the Palatinate, the English Garrisons being rather maintained in honour to keep footing until the General Accomodation, more in assurance of Friendship by Treaty, then of force by fighting.

And therefore to put the Spaniard to it, he was to demand, [Page] under hand and seal, either the Rendition of the Town and Castle of Heidleburgh, (seventy daies after audience) in condition as when the Palatine had it; and the like for Manheim and Franckendale, if either be taken whilest this Treaty, as also cessation there for the future upon the Articles of Sir Richard Weston. The Treaty which the Emperour propounded by Articles in November last, to which the King of Spain then condescended. if not in all these. Then, that the King of Spain join with the English for recovery thereof, thus lost upon this Trust; and to permit English forces to pass the spanish Territories into Germany; and in every particular herein, Digby is peremptorily enjoined to be assured under hand and Seal within ten daies after Audience, or else immediately after to take leave and return. October 3. 1622.

Thus the King fights and treats, not as in love with a match absolute, upon any uneven Terms then, as our mad World would make us believe them now, from whose pens and Pasquils, the Kings mind is pretended to be unmaskt, [as mean and fearful] for he being heightned with hopes of powerful assistance from his Parliament and people, the King to satisfie in some measure, the suspition of the world, and well-mindedmen, that he withdrew not his affection from his children for fear of any Enemy, to cosin himself with a Spanish Cheat, never meant him in a Match, these proceedings will unmask.

And why to be charactered [Studious of Peace somewhat overmuch] truly not so for a Christian King,Reign of K. Charls p 3, 4. and therefore not to be [imputed to Pusillanimity] admitting [His Son-in-laws extirpation from his Patrimony] which himself was justly the cause, not the King. Nor is it handsome to say to his dishonour confessed [That the Austrian Family cojol'd him in delusory chat, with specious falasies] whilest the Author is pleased to abreviate that tedious Treaty, and loss of three Towns, and afterwards the whole Palatinate into three lines, with this Observation [That the moity of the Money spent in Ambassyes would have modelled an to have mastered the Imperious Eagle.]

And so the short Relation, with unskilful Surgery to cauterize, not truly to characterize the Wisdome of this King, in such difficult designs as were intent, more against him, than against many other Princes his Predecessors.

But these proceedings (I say) will unmask all; for from outward force, he was left in the lurch even by his own people that put him forward, and yet having more desperate conditions to work out at home, then was urged abroad; He in this Dilemma, bringing all his possibilities to this exigent and ending, sends suddenly after his Pacquet, this Item to Digby. In Case [Page]of Rupture (which the King was to mannage with most advantage) not instantly to return, but privately to advertize hether to the King himself, and publickly to give o [...]t the contrary, that accordingly he might deal with his Parliament, who stood at gaze to entertain the bad effects, not to welcome good fruits of this tedious Treaty.

What ere the King commanded, then daies expired,Digby made Earl of Bristol. and no satisfaction, yet Digby, created Baron 1618. and now by Patent Earl of Bristol, spins on the Treaty, willing to accept of any trifles to animate the King, whom he fed with certain hopes of real intention in Spain, till all was lost indeed; And yet the Articles of marriage handed to and fro, with such copies as each fancy led him to falsi [...]ie; of which one inserts them in print (besides sundry others his excellent Authors) The fabulous French Mercury, and Mr. Prinns Hear-say (though his ears were cropt) and saies,

[That this onely came from the Neast,Hist. Gr. Br. p. 212. kept at this time with scarce a Feather amiss, and so humbles them to the Readers acceptance, onely to tell us, what pains was taken to little purpose, where no Intention meant performance.]

And this he intends to prove out of the yong King of Spains Letter to the Count Olivares.

The King of Spains advice to Olivares.

That the King his F [...]ther at his death declared his intent, never to marry the Infanta with the Prince of Wales, which Don Balthasar, Uncle to Olivares understood, and so treated with intention to delay it. Yet being now so far adv [...]nced, he wishes him to direct the Treaty, but in all things to procure the satisfaction of the King of Great Brittain.

Novem. 5. 1622.

It is true that the King writ this Letter to Olivares, and likely enough, that in the first Motions, the State of Spain might heretofore unsettle. But now, that the Treaty had brought their Negotiations to some concernments; therefore Olivares, within three daies after (so suddenly) returns Answer to that King; wherein posterity might apprehend the several true Interests of all, and more cannot be surmized, than that which Olivares himself does herein confess, which it seems escaped out of Mr. Prinns hidden works of Darkness, and thus it follows.

[Page]

Olivares Answer to the King of Spains Letter.

SIR,

Concerning the Estate, which we find in the Treaty of Mariage between Spain and England, and being well assured how the ministers understand it, who treated in the time of Philip the third (that is) that their meaning then was, never to effect it, but only by enlarging the Treaties and points of Mariage, thereby to make use of the Friendship of the King of Great Brittain, as well in matters of Germany, as those in Flanders. And suspecting that your Majesty is of the same opinion (although the Demonstrations do not confirm it) and that the Infanta Donna Maria, is resolved to put her self into the Descalcas, An Order of Religion, bare [...]ooted. when she shall be pressed thereto.

I have therefore thought fit to present to your Majesty what my zeal hath afforded me; the time most necessary, for your Majesty with your Ministers to resolve what is fit.

The King of Great Brittain, finds himself equally ingaged in two businesses to this Marriage; moved thereto by conveniencies of your Majesties Friendship; in making an Agreement with such Catholiques, that he thinks are secretly in his Kingdom, and so to be assured of them, as likewise the honour in Mariage, with one of the House of Austria, and the best born Lady in the World.

The other is the Restitution of the Palatinate, in which he is yet more engaged; for besides that his Reputation is at stake, there is added the love and interests of his Grand-children, Sons of his only Daughter: which in nature and reason of State are to be preferred, what soever conveniencies might follow by dissembling what they suffer.

I dispute not, That that Kings concernments herein are to be Governed with Art and Friendship. He hath used both; but as precisely, not necessary) I omit it. But, as a Maxim, I hold these two Engagements (to him) are inseparable. And for us, though we make the Marriage, we must fail in the other (most necessary) the restitution of the Palatinate.

Thus much supposed. Having made the Marriage in the form as it is treated, your Majesty and England, will be ingaged in a War against the Emperour and the Catholick League, and so to declare with your Arms. Or declaring for the Emperour and the League, (as certainly you will) you will be forced to a War against England, and yet your Sister married to his Son, with the which all conveniencies whatsoever that were formerly thought upon, will cease.

If your Majesty shall shew your self Newtral, the first will appear [Page] very scandalous. and with just Reason, since in matters of less opposition than of Catholiques against Heretiques, the Arms of this Crown hath taken part with the Godly against the convenient party. And though at this time the French have taken the part of the Hollanders against us, your pitty is such to send your Arms agains [...] the Rebels of that Crown of France, leaving all the great considerations of State, only because these men are enemies to the faith of the Church. It will oblige your Majesty to give good occasion to those of the League to make use of France, and other Catholick Princes illaffected to this Crown, as necessary for them so to do; and these men against their own Religion will sement, and assist the Heretiques for hatred to us; and follow the contrary party only, to leave your Majesty with that blemish that never hath befaln any of your Predecessours.

Besides, the King of England will remain offended and disobliged, seeing neither interests nor helpers do follow; the allyance of this Crown, is likewise the pretext of particular resentment, for having suffered his Daughter and Grandchildren to be ruined in respect hereof.

For the Emperour, though he be well affected and obliged to us, in making the Translation at this time, as business now stands (the Duke of Bavaria being possesed of all the Dominions) and though he would dispose all to our conveniencyes, it will not be in his power to do it; as your Majesty may see by the Memorial, the Emperours Ambassadour gave you yesterday who make it certain. Since in that List of the Souldiers, that every one of the League is to pay, Bavaria alone will pay more, all than the rest joined together, Which shews his power and intention not to accommodate matters, but to keep to himself the superiority of all in this broken time; the Emperour is now in the Dyet, and the Translation is to be made in it

I propose then for this Estate, to conserve the means for a Conference with your Majesties Ministers; for the Difficulty will be to find a Way to make the present Distracted Affairs straight again; which with Lingring, both the Power and the Time will be lost.

The Emperour (as your Majesty knows by his Ambassadours) desires to marry his Daughter with the King of Englands Son, and I doubt not, but he will be likewise glad to marry his second daughter with the Palatines Son.

Then I propound that these two Matches be made, and set on foot presently, giving the King of England full satisfaction in all his propositions, for the more strict Union and Correspondence, that he may agree to it.

And so all the conveniencies of allyance with us, will be as full in this; for it accommodates the matter of the Palatinate, and the [Page] Succession of his Grand-children, with his honour, without blood or treasure, together with the interest of the Emperour, the conveniencies of England and the Palatinate, and to reduce the Prince Elector, that was an enemy to the obedience of the Church, by breeding his Sonnes in the Emperours Court in the Catholique doctrine.

To conclude, the business is great the difficulties greater, than perchance have been in any other Case.

I am obliged thus to represent it to your Majesty, and shall further shew what I think fit foe disposing of the things, to the great Ministers of State if your Majesty please; being helped with the good zeal of Count Gondamore, and God his blessing therein: so much for his Honour, and your Majesties service.

Madrid Novem. 8. 1622.

Olivares.

A wonder to some, why this Bird was not hatcht in our Historians nest,Princes jo [...] ney to Spain. for it was fledged with the rest, and writ (you see) but three daies after for Answer, and might have been nestled in Mr. Prinns [...]abal, if either of them had been so honest, as to preserve a truth.

Some reasons besides, which animated King Iames to proceed, having wasted much time of Tryal by his Ambassadours in Spain, and with theirs here Gondamore, a Man of subtile wit, yet prevailed more with us by the advantage of time and our own distempers, than by the virtue of any worth in him; who having done here, as you have heard, was called home the last year, and Don Iuan de Mendoza Marquess Inojosa, with Don Carlos de Colonna, sent hither Extraordinary, with whom here passed more narrow overtures in the Match, besides what was acted beyond Seas, with such effects as are before remembred.

And being a mixed business of Love and State, and yet in them the common good and quiet of Christendom involved; standing upon desperane terms, had the more need of desperate Cures: It was therefore resolved here, to intrust it wholy and secretly to the Suitor himself; the Prince with his Confident the then Marquess of Buckingham for a journey to Spain.

And the seventeenth of Febr. 1622. disguised with their single Attendants, Endimion Portor of his Highness Bed-chamber, and Richard Graham, Master of the Marquess Horse; meeting Sir Francis Cottington the Princes Secretary at Dover; These only hazard a journey by the way of France, land at [...]oloign, post to Paris, and had [...]ight of a Mask there, and [Page] the first view of the Princess Henrietta Maria, his after Queen and Consort, in anno 1625. From thence in haste, and some difficulty to Bourdeaux, and after to Bayon; the Confines of France: and from thence, no sooner gone, but that the Governour Count Graimont, had notice by the Currier (who carryed the advice from hence to the King of Spain) that the Prince of Wales, was gone thither.

Where he arrived at Madrid, fryday the 7. of March at eight a clock at Night, in thirteen daies from Paris, seven hundred fifty miles, and alighted at Bristols house, the Extraordinary Ambassadour, and Sir Walter Aston Lieger, intrusted underhand to overlook the others actions, in this particular, being hitherto, suspected of the Prince, to be too much Catholique there. So that this sudden arrival, startled Bristol, that was a stranger to the Journey; which met with such success afterwards, as the measure of his Malice did meet out; Together with Gondamores regret (on the Spanish party) who with all his wisdome, more by estimation then merit, was abused also at home to credit what was commanded to him, who thought nothing more sure then now to be effected.

The next morning the Arrival of Buckingham was willingly discovered to Gondamore, and so to the Conde Olivares, the Spanish Favorite, and by him to the young King Philip, who gave him leave to visit the Marquess, and Order to be brought to the King in private to whom he delivered King Iames his Letters; and discovered that the Prince was come; and therefore with the Ambassadours was returned, Olivares with the Kings salutations of honor and welcom. Where it was observed that Olivares would not be covered, though the first Grandee of Spain, who are not bare to their own King.

The next Sunday afternoon, though in Lent, upon Design [...] [...] desire to take view of his Mistress, The King, Queen, [...] Infanta, and the Infantes (Don Carlos and Don Ferdinan [...]o, his two Brothers) with a great Train of Coaches, took air upon the Prado, a publick place of Recreation, where the Prince likewise (disguised) in the Duke of Ceas Coach with his English Train, made divers turns, and so had sight of the Infanta, not refraining though, to salute each other with seemly congies.

The King desired to visit and imbrace the Prince at the Earl of Bristols House. But to avoid that disadvantage, the Prince would not be denyed to pass to the King, who therefore appointed half way, where he stayed, and there they met.

The King got out of his Coach first, and imbracing the Prince with wonderful Kindness, made incomparable professions of love and honour.

[Page]In the strict Obligations which the King his Father, and His Highness Himself had cast upon him, by that singular act of Confidence and Favour.

To which the Prince replyed,

That he was Royally recompenced by the honor he receives, to be his own Advocate in this His High Design to visit His Majesty and His Princely Sister.

And taking Coach together, He forced the Prince therein first on the right hand. Bristol interpreting between them (for the Kings of Spain do not descend to give honour to the French tongue) and return home by Torch-light.

On Munday the Prince was visited by Olivares, to let him know, the Kings Publique Devotion unto the Monastery La Merced, attended on Horse-back with a glorious Train of which the Prince had sight, and so passed that day in Recreation abroad.

The next day the King sent two Dukes to visit the Prince, with this Complement,

That seeing the good service of the Conde Gondamore had imprinted such a singular Character in the K. of Great Brittains affection, to trust so excellent a terasure into Spain as his Highness, therefore he could not suffer any Subject of His unadvance [...], who had been so graciously accepted in Eng [...]; For which cause he was resolved to make him a Counsellour of State, though he accompted him indeed as an Englishman, Nay, rather for that respect, that they might be the more confident of his proceedings, and Privy to the Inmost actions; and the Prince was impowred to establish him therein.

For which Gondamore falls down at His Feet, and being by His Highness addressed to the Court was instantly sworn.

Not long after was proclaimed a General Pardon,General Pardon proclamed. Of all Offences, and all Prisoners within the Continent of Spain released; [Page]and all English Slaves for Pyracy or Mortal Crimes, were set at liberty, and manifested to be done in contemplation of the Prince.

The 16. of March appointed for the Princes Triumphal Entry through Madrid. The day before, were presented two Barb-Gennets of excellent value,His entry in Triumph. for the Prince to choose, and the other for the King.

The Morning come, four Counsellours of State were sent to attend, and to conduct him to the Monastery, St. Ieronimo, neer Madrid; from whence the Kings of Spain, make their solemn Entries of Coronation; where he was feasted privately at Dinner by the Kings appointment.

After Noon, was [...]ent by the Prince in giving Audience to the Inquisitor General, and to all the several bodies of Counsels (which continually reside in the Court at Madrid) except only the Council of State, which never makes visit in Corps; the rest did; being of Castile, Arragon, Portugal, Italy, Militia, Indies, Treasury, and Exchequer, &c.

The Corrigidor and Regidores of Madrid (the Governours) had audience likewise.

About four a Clock in the even, comes the King, whom the Prince receives at the [...]ate, and all things in Order they dispose to be going; They came in Coaches, but now all Mount on Horse-back in Magnificent manner, and riding to the entry of the Liberties of Madrid, there attended twenty four of the Regidores with a large Canopy of Tyssue▪ rich imbossed (being their office to bear it) were apparelled in rich Cloath of Tyssue, lined with Crimson Cloath of Gold; They both came under the Canopy, the Prince alwaies on the right hand; Before them the Courts and Ministers of Justice. Then the Grandies, and all the principal Noblemen in excellent Bravery, attended by their Followers in rich Equipage and Liveries (a custom in that Kingdom wherein they have excess.)

Next after the Canopy, followed the Marquess Buckingham, and the Conde Olivares, as Masters of the Horse to them both, with eithers cloath of State; which Canopy was presented to Buckingham, as a Fee to Him in that Office, and serving for the Prince, in whose honor, that daies action was performed. Then the Earl of Bristol, between two of the eldest Counsellours of State, and a Gentleman of the Bed-chamber; Sir Walter Aston following them, in like manner accompanied. The rest of the Council of State and Bed-chamber, next after. Then that goodly Guard de los Archeros, bravely clad in gallant manner; then numbers of gallant youth followed, being of the glory of that Court and Kingdome.

The windows decked (you may believe) with the painted beauties of t [...]e most famous Donna's, the Houses outwardly [Page] furnished with hangings of Arras and Pictures; the Streets scaffolded, and here and there in more eminency were raised Temporary buildings, whereon the several bodies of the Councills sate, to see and do reverence, and by the way several Pageants, Representations of the rare Comedians and Dancers▪ and all to give content to that Royal Pair, as th [...]y passed by untill they came to the Court-Gate.

The Queen, The Queen is visited. and Infanta were Spectators, but soon retired to the Pallace to receive the visit; the King and Prince embracing, passed up to the Queens Quarter, whom She received at her Chamber Door; and conducted him to and under the Cloath of State; they sat on three equal Chairs, the Queen in the midst, the Prince on the Right hand, the King on the Left.

The Room richly furnished, but more, by those excellent beauties, the living Tapistry of Ladies, Noble Mens Children, called Menines.

Madam (said the Prince) the Honour of this Dayes Solemnity is due to your Majesty,The Complement. which conveys Me hither to kiss your Princely hand.

And so stooped to her Knee.

Sir (said she) It is to your Highness, and in such manner as to the Royalty of Spain, due and done to your excellent merit.

And so passing half an hours complement in French, which is natural to her, she brought them back to Her Chamber-Door.

The King conducting the Prince to his Lodgings, a quarter of the Court, prepared for him with all magnificence. At the entrance, stood the Infantes his two Brothers, and so all three conducted the Prince into His Bed chamber. And then the K. t [...]ok the right hand, Because (said he) your Highness is now at home; and so left him to his pecul [...]ar attendants, and other Officers of honour, especially Grandees mixt amongst them to wait the Princes pleasure.

And within an hour comes the Conde de Benavente, Rich Presents to the Prince. as Maior Dorro to the Queen, with a present.

A Fair Bason of Massy Gold, born by two Men, [Page] A Cu [...]ous imbroidered Night Gown laid double in it. Two great Tr [...]nks bound with bands of pure Gold, studded very thick with nails of Gold and Locks and Keys of the same. The Coverings and Linings were of Amber Leather, filled with several Delicacies, curious Linnen, rich Perfumes. A rich fair Desk, full of rarities in each Drawer.

And Buckingham was remembred by a Present from the Countess Olivares.

Fire works were made, and Torch Triumphs in all Houses,Triumphant Fire-Works. and Windows for three Nights together by Proclamation, with wonderfull acclamations night, and day crying Vive el Principe de Galles, Vive el Principe, &c.

And thus settled at his home, attended with all the like Officers as the King, and of the same ranck and quality, with the one half of his Guard with golden Keyes of the Court to dispose to such English as the Prince was pleased to intrust. Great Triumphs in preparation, and the principal Nobility in Aragon sent for to honour the Court, and for the glory and lustre of the same. the Edict for restraint of all excess in point of apparel was suspended.

Some daies after invited to run at the Ring, in presence of his Mistress,Takes the Ring in presence of his Mistress. he took it at the first course, with acclamations of joy and honour; The glory of which challenged fate to finish his desires with good success in the Infanta's favour. And although some daies had passed with utmost extremities of ga [...] lantry, yet saw he not his Mistress, but at those distance [...]; which was excused by Olivares, That the custome of the Nati [...] in Princely Overtures with Infanta's, was not to take view of neerer affections, till the Dispensation from Rome should come to admit them Lovers. Yet (as a Prince) he had access often in presence of the King (for privacy is not admitted between Brother and Sister of Royal descent) yet the Prince at these interviews, spake to her by Bristol his Interpreter.

By this time the Court of Spain, was changed into English Lords, and Buckingham created Duke by Patent, Buckingham created Duke. carried over by Viscount Doncaster, lately made Earl of Carlile, and every day brought thither the affluence of fresh Gallants of English Nobility, the Earl of Denbigh, Viscount Rochford, the Lord Kensington, Caecils, Herberts, Howards, not a Noble Family that failed to tell posterity what he had seen in Spain.

There is one who will have the Prince soundly beset for fair hopes to turn Papist] a scandal not worthy the confutation,Hist. Gr. Br. p. 230. for [Page] I have heard it discoursed oftimes afterward, when the Duke, Kensington, (after Earl of Holland) and Denbigh with others avow, to the world thar there were never any proposals or designs to alter the Princes Religion; for indeed it was so unlikely that in it self, it might be sufficient reason to hazard his succession. Though I may be easily drawn to believe (and do know some particulars) that the Arts and Engines at Rome, were set on work and vainly whetted for that advantage; and that the outward acts of State in that Negotiation, might mix secret workings, with circumstance and respects to the Romish Religion; and might thereafter through that Expedition amongst free Wits, and French Gazets, under divers censures since, not proper for me, in these our last daies, so to dive into as to convince the malice of Libellers, These our Authors, Mr. Prinn, and the French Mercury, and other such stuff.

Tis true too that the Dispensation moulded at Rome, The Pope writes to the Prince. induced the Pope Gregory, to write to the Prince, not improper so to do; and as handsome for his Highness to afford an Answer; both are in Print and common (such as they are) and of custome may be somwhat corrupted in the truth of what was writ, and by the answer we may understand the other.

The Princes Answer to the Popes Letter.

Most Holy Father,

I Received the Dispatch with content,His Answer and as the respect and care, wherewith Your Holiness writes, doth require; Being unspeakable the Delight I had to read the generous Exploits of my Noble Predicessors, to whose memory Posterity have not sufficiently given due Elogies of Honour. I believe your Holiness sets their Examples before me for my imitation, and the courage which they had to exalt the Cross, hath not been more than the care [Page] which I have, that the peace of the Church might be bounded in true Concord, and as the glory of God requires our endeavours to unite.

I do not esteem it greater honour to be descended from such Princes, than to imitate them in true zeal of Piety: in which it assures me much to have known the Mind and Will of Our Thrice Honoured Lord and Father, to give concurrence to so laudable a design; for it doth not a little grieve him to see, that great Evil grows from Division of Princes Christian, which if this Marriage between the Infanta of Spain, and my Self, may procure, I shall the rather conclude my happiness therein.

For as I have been far from incouraging Novelties, or to be a Partisan in any Factions against the Catholique Religion; so shall I seek occasion to take away suspitions, that I desire but One Religion, and One Faith, seeing We all believe in One Iesus Christ: Having resolved in my self to spare nothing, that I have in the World, my Estate and Life, for a thing so pleasing unto God, whom I implore to give your Holiness health and happiness.

Charles Stuart.

[Page] [A fatal Letter (saies one) whether this profession of the Prince did not rest upon him at his death?] was it such a sin in the Prince to wish and endeavour unity of faith and profession in Christ Iesus. Hist. Gr. Br. p. 234▪ But thus he carps at every clause, and descants on each syllable, adding the words Apostolick Roman, for Catholique Religion, as shews he took time and leasure to leave his Book large, and which inforces my Replies to this bigness of a Bulk.

And now arrives the Dispensation from Rome, Dispensation▪ is come, and Articles [...]igned there. and thereupon the Articles signed by that King, and Our Prince, were sent over to England, for our King and Council to consider. When Abbot Arch-bishop of Canterbury (in suspension of his function as you have heard, and not comming to the Council Table) somewhat factious to foment errours of State.Hist. Gr. Br. p. 236. Our Author saies [had the badge of a puritan clapt upon him] and undertakes to join with the jealousie of fools [That hereupon a Toleration must needs follow] and so as a chief Stickler, having no Office, nor much esteem to hazard undertakes a long Letter to the King, which perhaps was penned to please his Disciples, with copies to publish in print after his decease, we never heard tidings of it till now our last daies,and here. for Abbot Arch-Bishop of Canterbury, Primate of all England, was the first Man that signed to the Post-script, which attested those Articles of the mariage, and so did all the Privy Council. If not he? than none at all.

O!Hist. Gr. Br. p. 238, [but the good old man is excused, Being much against his mind, and swore with as little zeal to observe it: such power (saies he) have Kings over Mens consciences] And I can tell him that there were two other Bishops,239. Iohn Bishop of Lincoln, and Lancelot Bishop of Winchester, Men of far greater merit, and high esteem, and evener Conscience, that subsigned with him.

These Articles were concluded with a sumptuous Feast at White-Hall, and the Spanish Ambassadours invited that day to Dinner; but what to do?

[That after Dinner they might take a private Oath of the King. 240.]

For what? [Marry, in favour of Papists for free exercise of their Religion in all his Dominions, and that the Parliament should confirm that Oath.]

Tis strange; That the Oath never came to light; but is it lost? Nay, for the Author had the Articles in keeping, but not the Oath.

[Hereupon (he saies) followed disputes of Religion frequent; Doctor White, and Featly, against Fisher and Sweet, and sets down thirteen points of Popery, which they are not able to prove. [Page] And that presently thereupon a Chamber-floor at Black-Fryers fell down flat with the weight of the Auditory three hundred at a Popish Sermon, Anno 1623. and a hundred killed out-right; besides many maimed; as the immediate hand of God a great Iudgement, or an unfortunate Mishap, through their wilful stupidity.]

Abating his numerous Hearers also, there was indeed fifty found dead, and dying. It was in truth a miserable Spectacle for doctrine and use to all. Not as the fall of the Tower of Shilo was apprehended, of such as mistook the Justice of God, as peculiar only to those that suffered, but ought to be example to all, to amend their lives also; yet see our Hypocrites charity to himself, and censure of othe [...]s.

In this while the Articles signed are sent to Spain, Those Articles returned and signe [...] and some outward preparations here anent the Infanta's entertainment, if she should come. A Chappel new built, adjoining to Saint Iames, the place for her Court.

In Spain she was wantonly stiled Princess of England, and more frequent Meetings, afforded Her Suiter. In an in [...]tant Pope Gregory dyes, so that the dispensation not made use of as yet, was invalid, and a new License must now refer to Urban, that succeeds to the Chair.

Winter quarter was come, the weather foul, unfit to travail and might indanger the Princes Return, by rough Seas, and therefore was invited to stay till after Christmass, and so to take his Consort with him.

The Prince,The Prince resolves his return. and his Council doubting more delaies; sent word to England, for the Kings consent to return speedily, and had accordingly warrant, by the next Expresse, to take leave of Spain.

This news so sudden startled that State; to have the Sister of so great a Monarch,The two Favorites quarrel. and the best born in Europe, to be left by her Lover; with much regret that they had gone thus far forward, which Olivares took upon him to quarrel, and in heat of discourse hereabout, with the Duke urged their sudden resolve of parting to be hastened by him, without the Princes intention.

And Sennor Duca (saies he) you have not done well with us, to represent our affairs to your Master in evil sense.

Buckingham told him, His information came far, but wished the Intelligencer there present.

It cannot be denyed (saies Olivares.)

It is false, (said the Duke.)

The other starts back, in mighty passion, seeks for the Prince and tells him all.

And had this Answer, He might not believe it, without just cause given or (otherwise) much mistaken.

[Page]The Condies choler not abated, he finds out an English Gallant, Sir George Goring, and in Language of a Challenge complains,

That did not his own sense of suffering come in competition with his Masters honour, the Duke should know the danger of the Ly.

But he was told the others temper;

Whom no threats could ever make afraid: and since your Grace seeks me out for the honour, I shall do your [...]rrand and bring the Dukes Answer.

Which was, That he had the like regret by being a Guest, but had rather to suffer under the power of the others Sword, than to injure truth withconsent to a contrary sense.

But the King made them Friends.

This great Favourite was named Gasper de Gusman, Olivares character. a third Brother, born in Rome, and upon the fall of his Predecessour-Favourite, and his Family, the Duke of Lerma, under Philip the third. This Man crept into esteem with the Prince at that Kings death; he mannaged all, and was in hasty time created, Conde-Duke de Olivares, an excellent Minister of State, with much zeal and passion to agrandize his Master and His Dominions. So that the excess became his vice, to his loss of the affections of the Princes, Nobility and People; and in time might have turned to the hazard of the whole Monarchy; The revolt of the Catalonians first, and the whole Kingdome of Portugall following, in anno 1640. The Islands and Indies after▪ having been sixty years under the Spanish Yoke, with several other considerable plumes, pluckt from the Eagles wings; caused this same King Philip the fourth, afterwards to turn him off to his solitary home, where of grief he soon dyed.

The Prince hastens his return,Buckingham comes away. the Duke staied not that time but instantly took leave to attend the English Navy at St. Anderas, and ere the Prince departed from the King, promises were made each to other, to make Espo [...]sals ten daies after the Arrival of the next Dispensation. And accordingly a Procuration was left by the Prince in Bristols hands to impower him therein.

And to bear the Marks of Magnificence,The Princes parting Presents. the King presented his Princely Guest with high and eminent gifts of value, and also to his Train: So did the Prince, if not more to the Court of Spain, especially to the Infanta, A Pearl Neck-Lace of incomparable value, which was returned after the Breach of the Business (Mr. Prinn takes the Pains to catalogue these presents not intending it I dare say for the Princes honour in the bounty.) And after this he takes leave.

The Queen and Prince in French, wherein she was natural; but Bristol took the Infanta's in Spanish, and turned it into English, [Page] which if not changed in the Dialect by his Art, she seemed to deliver up her own heart, in as high expressions, as that language and her learning could (with her honour) set out.

But to put the Prince to his complement, a Notary was present, who in honour of his Highness took it upon Record, the antient custome from the Mighty. Empires of the East, the Scribe to lift up his right leg, and rest the heel upon the left Knee, and so writes.

The King accompanied the Prince to the Escurial Escurial. in his way to the Sea, a most Magnificent Structure, the eighth Wonder of the World, and Descriptions come short.

I shall satisfy Curiosity with the Princes accompt thereof, at his return home, when he advised such as would throughly be acquainted to take the pains as he did, To go and see it. Leaving the Relation to Coriats Discription, whose pilgrimage thither, some years ago, was perfected farther upon his Ten-To; Hunt a Stag by the way. for he died about Ganges in the East-Indies.

After a Feast here; in his way to the water side, a Stag was roused, and (as if trained up to the chase) he leads the hunt directly for the Journey, and also (as if by consent falls down in a Copice, where at hand, in a full grown wood, they were refreshed with cool air, and a curious Banquet, seeming rather by Destiny than Design, seeing all accidents agreed in the impossibility of any prefixed plot.

This Holocaust Sacrifice concludes their parting, which the very beast express'd in tears.

And truly a Sudden sadnesse and murmur amongst them all.

In which general silence, the Kings complement came breathing out.

Sir (said he) Men most eminent are famed by Their parting Complements their Adventures, and that your Person might give President to after times, Your Highness hath taken hazard by the hand in comming hither. Such Attempts in high Born Princes are without example; which hath tyed up Two in mutual conjunction of Love and Honour, and on my part with exceeding Obligation.

The Prince replyed,

Under protection of Your Sacred Majesty [Page] all Difficulties turn to Delight, so great influence flows from You as to bind up My observance to honour Your Person; Esp [...]cially in preserving My Memorie with Grace and favour to me, the most devoted to My Dearest Mistress.

The Rubrick of the day shews it the twelfth of September, Anno 1623.The pillar of Parting. when with imbracings they parted, and a Pillow of Marble forthwith erected there, with inscriptions for perpetual memory; the Princes departure.

And therefore a false scandal on the King to have any Design to stay the Prince [had he not outstript the rest.]

The Prince hastens to the Sea-side, waited on by numbers of the Spanish, Cardinal Zapata, the Marquess Aytone, the Condies of Barajos, Montare, and Gondamore, newly created, the height of all his preferments for all his Dissemblings. And Don Mendoza de Alcarnes, had commission to the King of Great Brittain, and command to wait on the Prince, and so to congratulate his adventurous Journey into Spain, and his safe return into England.

And from hence into Flanders, Germany, and Italy to make known to all those Princes and Potentates, Allies and Confederates, the neer approaching and consummation of the marriage, and unity of both Nations.

The beauty of Our gallant Navy (for in bigness of bulk theirs exceed) occasioned an invitation of them by the Prince, aboard his Ship, then called the Prince Royal.

The pleasant evening invites the Prince to accompany his Guests in his Barge,Danger to be drowned. back to the Shore; they had day enough, and coolest when latest, the best recreation. Besides, they gave it as a complement to take a Round of the whole Fleet, which took up more time, that had like to have been their last, for they were all almost lost.

It becomes a Story of Princely hazard to tell out the Tale; when the Recovery takes delight from the danger.

The Barge-men have a custom at the Oar to be cheered up by the Boat-swains whistle,The Strorm. to which One and All, with courage and force strain their brawny Limbs, untill they crack again, with such a gird, as might seem hazardous to divide the Barge, and pull themselves asunder. This over-wantonly done, with too much daring, put them to want it, when they came to danger. For now the damp fog fixes, and descends to the deeps, [Page] the Sun in shame sincks down to she Sea; the winds begin to whistle, and ere they apprehend danger, death seems to seize them with several distractions. A monstrous shower of Rain thickned the face of Heaven, so dark as Hell; and yet the Stars were seen, affording but light to discern more dread. The Sea with flames do burn, and yet sad clouds do sink down shores (of tears) as if to quench them: Yo [...] would have thought the waves to heaven had wrought, and heaven to seas had sank, No place for Art or force. The Sea-men inured to Tryals, yet now grow fearful, horrour possesses all. No Card or compass aboard; They steered to and fro, doubtful what to do but to drown, and first to pray, which they did; and thereby were directed with wondrous chance to the glimpse of a candle, being the Lanthorn of an outlying ship. Hope helpt the worn-out Rowers to recover their faint hearts, and yet with difficulty, doubling the former danger, it was impossible to clap aboard, so mighty were the billows to bulge the Barge. But up they get, and all safe, for his sake, the Prince of men, and of such a mind above the Power of all (but fortune) Seas or Wind.

And in their company departs Mr. Clark, Mr. Clark returns to Madrid. the Dukes Attendant, sent by the Prince to see the Spanish Train safe at home, and to bring back that good News to England.

This complement had more of business, for he carried commands under the Princes hand to Bristol, not to deliver the Procuration left in his charge till further▪ Order from England, upon the extremest peril to his person; It seems the Prince was not then over-earnest in the Match.

Bristol bounded with this Restriction,Bristol is to forbear the Espousals. by which he foresaw the fraction, having (by agrement) ten daies limitted after the Dispensation, should come, and so time to consider what to do; for Clark, having no order to return, with any answer; Bristols actions were by him narrowly observed, and advice thereof sent home to the Prince, by whose intelligence, the jealousie upon Bristol was heightned to crimes, almost to his after destruction.

The fifth of October lands the Prince at Portsmouth, Prince lands, October 5. and the next day posts to London, with unspeakable Love in the Peoples welcome; and therefore expressed in feasting and Bonefires; with little refreshment, he hasteth to Royston, the Kings usual abode▪ for the air in Autumn; who receiving the particular and just accompt of the Devices of Spain, and communicated to the Council, it was concluded to acquaint a Parliament with all the proceedings, which was resolved with speed, February following.A Parliament designed in February following.

Then Letters were sent to the Earl of Bristol, intimating the [Page] true sense in the King and his Council, of the Spanish Forms and delaies, which the Wisdom of the Prince, by his own presence and conversation discovered most abusive. But to meet in the jusling, and yet to bring theirs to maturity. He was to suspend the Proxie till Christmass, though the Dispensation should come, the power mentioned in the Procuration being no longer of force, the Execution after that time would prove invalid; and because the honour of England shall be preserved throughout, he was to review his former Instructions concerning the Restitution of the Palatinate, and his Son-in-Laws Electoral Dignity, and to presse them as inherent with the Marriage.

But all these Items, he was to reserve to himself without discovery, untill the Dispensation should set those Demands on foot.

Bristol bound up by this Express durst not break out the least limits to discover his own dislike to his Overlookers Aston and Clark, but in publick set out the Preparations of England, in more expensive proportion than those Provisions of Spain, for accomplishing so glorious a Marriage; which put the Spaniard into a firm opinion how powerfully he had captivated the English credulity. That the Ambassadour for Poland, then at Madrid, Seeing the Corrival of his Masters Son had got assurance of his Mistress, took leave of his woing, and went home with the Willow Garland.

For now the Dispensation come, Bone-fires, and Bells-jangling, were signals through Spain of the mutual joy of Prince, and people.

And few daies after the Marriage was prefixt, with all possible preparations of State and Solemnity; both for the present dependance, and future reference, even to the Ordering of her voyage to England in March after.

When in the interim fresh commands confirming the former by several Expresses for failing; Bristol opens to King Philip his Masters resolutions,

That having with vast expence, Bristol hath Audience. and in [...]inite patience, expected the effects of his just desires, with hazard of the Prince his Person, to consummate his part in the Treaty, that nothing might lodge upon the King of Englands honour, so highly preserved with all Pot [...]ntates of Europe, and therefore unless the Restitution of the Pala [...]inate, and the Electoral Dignity were included, the Treaty of Mariage was [...] to take end.

The King troubled to be over-reached, and to see it without remedy fairly answered,

That those Demands were not in his power to effect, the one un [...] the command of the Emperour, the other in possession of the[Page]Duke of Bavaria, and if those could not be reduced with reason, he would with Arms asist the Kings part against them, or others in that behalf.

And not long after, the Spaniard taking it in earnest, and Bristol having no motion to any further address, had order (in honour to the King of Spain) to expect no more audience, nor to send conveyance of any more Letters to the Infanta; and by publick command, none should call her hereafter, Princess of England, as in honor to the Match, they had usually stiled her; and Bristol prepared to return home.Duke of Richmond dies suddenly.

The twelfth of February the Duke of Richmond dyed, that morning being found dead by his Dutchess, whom she left slumbering, as she thought somewhat early, when she arose; and therefore forbore his disquiet, until the late hour seemed necessary to call him up to the Parliament; but gently withdrawing the Curtains, he was found dead, without the least Symptomes of any warning to shew distemper in his body. This sudden amazement to all, caused the King instantly to adjourn the meeting till the 19. day after.

Various conceipts were rumoured of his hasty end, which according to the peoples fancies, suffered several conjectures some attributing his death to an Apoplexie, to a Surfeit, to Poyson, [which served (saies one) as a forerunner to the King] for he will have him impoisoned also.Hist. Gr. Br. p. 258.

The Parliament meet at the day assigned, and the King greets them.

In effect thus.

That to justify himself and willingness with frequency to advise with his people.The K. speech in Parliament. He urges it by way of Parable in Christ and his Church, so he saies, as Husband to them, his Spouse, the effects of communion with Man and Wife is often visiting each other.

There being two waies of Love in a King and his people, ordinary and particular administration of Iustice; and by communicating with his Parliament. For the first, that his Government hath been without errour, he cannot say, but does truly avouch it before God, and his Angels, that never King governed with more pure, sincere and uncorrupt heart, from intention and meaning of Error, or imperfection in his Reign.

The other part he imparts as a secret importance to his estate and children; These waies, as they procure love of his People, and of them, he acknowledges the effect, whom the Parliament represents; so he desires, That they would effectually present the Peoples Loves to him, as a true Mirrour, not as a false Glass, otherwise than it should be.

[Page]In a word, he falls upon the Matter; The match of his Sonne, wherein they cannot but know, his time spent his cost.

His Reasons; Advancement of his Estate and Children, and peace of Christendome, depending too much upon fair hopes and promises; with the necessary hazard of his Son to prosecute his desires in Spain; and with him Buckingham to wait his Commands, who are returned, not with such effect as was desired; nor altogether without profit. For it took forth a point of Wisdome; Qui versatur in universalibus, &c. is easily deceived, the Generals affording others, ways to evade, and means to avoid effects.

The particulars too many for him to relate, he refers them to the Prince, to Buckingham, and the Secretaries; that so Super totam Materiam, he may receive their Assistance and advice for the good of the Commonwealth, Religion, His Son, and His children of the Palatine.

And for his Estate, it is considerable, as consisting with theirs; And as Res Integra is presented to them, so he professes himself free to follow their best advice.

By Metaphor of good Gardiners, that plant good and pluck up bad, weeds choak their Labours, but jealousies are to be rooted out; for they are of a strange depth.

And cleers himself in the presence of God, of either Remissness in Religion, or maintenance of Toleration; what suspition might be, was when he connived at some things, which hindred weighty affairs, but never to overthrow or disagree with Our Laws; For a good Horse-man spares the spur, and sometimes suffers the Reigns; so a Wise King (as his age and experience informs) to quicken, and execute Laws, and upon just occasion to be remiss.

And closes with that, which he would have take best impression, as most averse from their faith; their Privileges. He never restrained Lawful Liberties, antiently warrantable, therefore he forewarns them (as Saint Paul did Timothy) to avoid Genealogies and curious Questions, quirks of Law, idle Innovations. And his prayers to God for them, and a happy Conclusion of this Parliament.

Concluding with serious and Christian Protestations before God, That never way-faring Man in the burning Desarts, more desired water to quench his drought, than he thirsted and longed for happy success of this Parliame [...]t. that the good issue of this, may expiate and acquit the fruitless of the former,

AMEN.

§

This the effect; His occasions were alwaies to speak much; and his excellent abilities to speak well; worthy of print as they are other where virbatim; which the bulk of this History craves leave to breviate.The L. Keepers short complement.

The Lord Keeper, as Speaker to the Peers, whose place there [Page] usually adds to the Kings mind and meaning, and excuses himself,

After his Eloquence to be silent; not to enamel a Gold Ring with studs of Iron. And as One saies of Nerva, that having adopted Trajan, he was immediately taken away, Ne post divinum & immortale factum, aliquid Mortale faceret; So he durst not after his Majesty, Divinum & Immortale dictum, Mortale aliquid addere.

Of this one complains, as the temper of those times onely, [Men make themselves Beasts, Hist. Gr. Br. p. 262. by making Kings Gods] and advances highly the Spanish and French [not idolizing their Kings with Sacred, Sovereign, Immortal, Oraculous Expressions, but in their Title Sir, tells the business and demands Iustice.]

When both houses had well digested the Kings excuses, and given some hopes of their good satisfaction, and so cleerly to go on to business of the time; It was thought fit for the King to per [...]orm his promise in reference to further Relation of the Mysteries in the Match.

And therefore after five daies breathing, the Duke of Buckingham, with the Prince, gave particular remonstrance to both Houses of such Transactions (or so many as is necessary) as beforeBuckinghams D [...]claration to both Houses. remembred, especially those which were mannaged by Sir Richard Weston, with the Arch-dutchess at Bruxels, in reference to the K. of Spain, and both their jugglings, viz.

That thereupon the King sent Porter to Spain, and was abused with hopes to credit Bristol; till Olivares told him plainly, That they meant neither the Match, nor the Restitution of the Palatinate.

Bristol in private, discovers this freedome to Olivares, who incensed with Porter, refuses to speak with him any more. And so Bristol orders his return, with a dispatch and assurance of both Demands; but being of slow performance, the Prince undertakes it himself in Person, where the Spanish deceipts, and Bristols connivance, being with some intricacy discovered, by the Prince; He is now returned through all these hazards, to deserve thanks from us all.

The Duke having satisfyed the curiosity of a searching Parliament, was highly esteemed as the Preserver of the Nation, contrary to that natural custome of incompatibillity of affections, between the vulgar and the Sovereigns favour, and so he kept it to the Kings last breath (eighteen Moneths after) a long course, calm and smooth prosperity, without any visible ecclipse or variation.

Though an Author seeks to scandal his Memory [And brings Hist. Gr. Br. p. 264. Bristol his Accuser hereafter (I know not when) That the Duke caried the Prince Purposely into Spain to be better instructed in Popery, [Page]and gave hopes of the Princes conversion; and professed himself a Papist, heard Masse, adored their Sacraments, and received a Bull from the Pope to incourage him to pervert both the King and the Prince.]

These imputations so feigned and false, need no confutation but neglect and scorn, though some Articles since seem to say so much.

The Parliament had other opinions then,Parliaments advice. and thereupon advised the King to break the Treaty, and proclaim open Warre against Spain, but in such General terms as gave his Wisdome cause to suspect; and therefore thinks fit to propound such cautions to them, as should advisedly draw to Resolutions, and not leave him in the lurch,

§

My Lords and Gentlemen,

Have cause to thank God, The Kings Speech. that my last Speech takes this effect, that with unanime consent you have so speedily given advice in this Businesse; to break off the Treaties of the Match, and Palatinate.

And now give me leave, as an old King, to propaund my doubts and hereafter give me your answer.

It is true, I have been all my life a Peaceable King, my Titles, and Impress Rex Pacificus give me that Honour; and should I now imbroyl my self in War against my Nature, and mine honour, to spill more blood, of which too m [...]ch had been shed? unless it be by Necessity, Malum Necessarium; Besides He tells them, Some hopes of better conditions hath been offered since this sitting. But to take off their Iealousies, that while they advise he rejects. It is therefore left to their consideration, as a matter of weight, that the course may agree with his conscience.

In the case of his Children, he being old, would be glad (as Moses saw the promised Land afar off) if not to see the Restitution, yet to be but assured it shall be, and so to sing, Nunc Dimittis Domine.

He hath heretofore said, as now, not to desire a furrow of Land in all his Dominions without Restitution of the Palatinate; but then take the Difficulties of the Case. It is unchristian to advise a King to War by blood which may be had by Peace. And to consider the Requisites anent his Nccessityes, for he tells them plain, Parliaments have afforded him least helps of any King.His Necessities. His disabilities increased by his Sons journey to Spain, Ambassadours, maintenance of His Children, assisting the Palatinate, his debt to Denmark for the Low Countries, who, if not assisted by him cannot subsist of themselves.

The Princes of Germany that should help, are poor, weok, disheartned, [Page] and expect from hence. Ireland as a back-door,Anno 1624. must be secured; The Navy though well, must be repaired for securing it self, and the Coasts.

That his children abroad eat no bread but by him. His customs the best part of his Revenue in effect the substance of all are farmed with conditions if war follow, their bargains sease, and Subsidies ask time to bring in, unless he take them up upon credit, and so lose of their value.

In these cases he would be loath to shew his Teeth, and cannot bite. And refers the condition of his own Estate to his Treasurer.

And thus freely he opens his heart; for their Hearts and Help, let them shew the means, and he will do what they direct, referring the dispose of monies to their own Deputies and Treasurers; and upon the offer of their Means, he makes War; he will wave the Prerogative of Kings, of War and Peace, and be advised by them in either for weapons breed peace.

He desires to be in Love with Parlaments to make good Laws, reform abuses and maintain good Government, and so blesses their labours to the end.

Thus far the King.

Here was plainess. He had cause to fear, for he foresaw his own hazard to be left in the lurch. So that to set him forward, without despair, they soeak as they should mean, and not long after give him this Declaration.

They first render thanks to his sacred Majesty for accepting their humble advice, to assist him in a Parliamentary way with their persons and abilities.

And whereas his Majesty was pleased to descend to particular propositions for advance of so great a Bu [...]iness, upon his Majesties Declaration for dissolution and discharge of both Treaties, and for defence of the Realm, the securing Ireland, the assisting the Netherlands, and other his Majestyes Friends and Allyes, and for the Navy. For these they will grant him three intire Subsidies, and three fifteens, to be paid within a year. The money to be in hands of Committes and Commissioners by them to be expended, as shall be agreed upon this present Session.

The King was well pleased, and tells them,

He is willing to dissolve the Treaties, their Gift being sufficient to begin a War, but when it will end God knowes. That he will ingage his Successor, his Son, for the recovery of the Palatinate, and in his old age will assist in Person, if need be. That as he is pleased the Committes should direct the disposing of the monies, so the Design must not be acted by publick councells, that is, whether two thousan [...] or ten thousand, by Sea or Land, East or West by Diversion or [Page] Invasion, upon the Emperour or Bavaria; these be hopes must be left to the King.

Hereupon a Council of War is chosen of some antient Actors in the Militia of Ireland, Council of War. and other Nobility, the Meeting at the Savor, at the Lord Caries, President of that Council, who resolve of six thousand to be sent for the present into the Low Countreys, to join with their forces, against the Spanish under command of Spinola, and so have a freer passage into Germany, if need were hereafter.

The Spanish Ambassadour Marquess of Inojos [...], much perplexed at the even proceedings between the King and Parliament, Spanish Ambassadour accuses the Duke of Treason. resolved to put in practice a Jesuite trick upon Buckingham, by that means to distemper the Calm proceedings of this State.

We are told the Manner [That Inojosa sent one Padre Majestre a Spanish Iesuit,Co. & C [...]. K. James p 150. a great Statesman, to King James, that he under confession had found the King was by Buckingham, or by his procurement to be killed, but whether by Poison, Pistol, Dagger, &c. he could not tell. Then that the King should say to Buckingham, ah Stenny, Stenny, (a term of favour) wilt thou kill me▪ the Duke in high passion, being told that Padre Majestre had been with the King, who being questioned by the Duke; Inojosa undertook the quarrel, and told the Duke, he would maintain him the Traytor, &c.]

Another saies [That the Ambassadour sent one to the King to let him know,Hist. Gr. Br. p. 278. That the Duke of Buckingham had some dangerous Machination on foot, that tended to his Destruction, and the best He could expect would be a Con [...]inement to a Country House in some Park during his life, the Prince being now ripe for Government, &c. and the Author concludes, That such an attempt could not be done without the Princes privity, and yet the King was willing to have the Brat strangled in the Womb; though there was cause to suspect, that the great intimacy and deerness between the Prince, and Duke (like the conjunction of two dreadfull Planets) could not but portend the production of some dangerous effect to the Old King.]

What horrid infamy is here cast on them both?

But this was the story and the truth,The Truth of the Story. for not a day passed then, but that I was present, and acquainted with all that transaction to the end. It was well known how much it concerned the Ambassadour for his Masters honour to disimprove the value of Buckingham, with the King and Parliament, and cunningly meant to do it home, and to involve the Prince too in one and the same act.

And therefore aspersed abroad a suspition (which really also Inojosa devised to the Kings ear) That Buckingham should have [Page] plotted this Parliament to over power the King, which if resisted, then by that authority to con [...]ine the King, and to transfer soveraignty upon the Prince.

And thus (Machevils rule) lay the scandal high enough, no matter to prove it.

Himself the Brocher, to be free from Examination, being qualified an Ambassadour.

A great noise there was (I remember well) more in the peoples resentment than any way considerable at Court. And yet the Duke was not so dull to neglect the means of satisfying Others. Himself and Prince needed not, nor truly did it any way interfear (as it was devised) to startle the King.

And being generally cryed down as a false scandal, the power of all three could not question an Ambassadour, though it was scanned at the Council Table, and put to vote in the house too, how to proceed with him: That the Shield of his Ambassy was too weak to defend him from the Sword of Iustice, for then he resolves into a private man.

The Duke not satisfyed,See before pa. 74. had the opinion of a learned Antiquary who with much circumstance advised and directed a tedious Ceremony of State to be used therein.

Both Speakers to remonstrate to the Ambassadour the crime, and if he reveal not the Informers, then is he Author Scandali, and so the Houses to petition the King to confine him, and restrain his person till his Master know his offence, and satisfy Iustice. If he does not; then is it Transactio Criminis, upon himself, and draws a denounce of War.

But the wisdome of the King would have none of this Geer. Yet the Prince and Duke complained hereof to Spain, and a command returned to Inojosa to crave forgivenesse, which he did,; and the Duke in confidence of his own Innocency, suffered it to passe without much more trouble to seek satisfaction in publique: for he would always say, Lyes are not long liv'd.

And indeed more he could not have; Examples vary, some Ambassadours in like cases have been secured and punished, others freed by privilege; for in the times of the Scots Affairs, with Us and France; frequent Presidents have been used, by Throgmorton, Randolph, Tanworth, and Bishop Ross, according to the power of the Princes where they have been committed,Sea before anno 1571. as hath been before mentioned.

The Earl of Bristol, this while in Spain, received command to take leave of that King, and to return; and had intelligence from hence in what hazard he should appear after such Complaints in Parliament against him.Bristol [...]return And indeed he delayed it so long that it was suspected he would stay there, being so advised [Page] by the King of Spain, who gave him assurance of all Civility and kindness in his Court for security, rather than adventure his head at home.

But these branglings here, feigned there to be high Distraction, Hist. Gr. Br. p. 272. gave him courage to return [where no sooner appeared but was clapt up in the Tower (sa [...]es one) and the next day set at Liberty, nor durst any bring him to farther Tryal] He was committed by the Lords in Parliament,Co. & Ch. p. 163. and might have lain there longer a Prisoner; but the Duke made means for his release, least it should move jealousies, that it was his design thereby to delay his Tryal; and this to my knowledge, for I acted in his release. He being earnestly pursued by the Duke, and had the Parliament lasted, it might have proved his destruction, who afterwards humbled himself, and gained favour to retire into the Countrey to Shirbone, that fatal seat for suceeding Offendors.

But the Spanish Ambassadours practice failing, some Lords, set on work a Petition to the King against Papists, as intending it necessary to go on with the complyance of the Publick Affair, now happ [...]ly proceeding, or to hazard all, and nothing would serve to satisfy these Men, but several Conferences of both Houses, untill they had with consent framed their Propositions, and presented them to the King in two Petitions alike.

We your Majesties most Humble and Loyal Subjects the Lords and Commons do in all humility offer unto your Majesty These two Petitions.

THat for the more safety of your Realms,Petition of both Houses against Papists. and better keeping your subjects in obedience, and other important reasons of State, your Majesty would be pleased by some such course as you shall think fit to give present Order that all the Laws be put in due execution against Iesuits, Seminary Priests, and others, having taken Orders of the See of Rome, and generally against all Popish Recusants; and as for disarming, that it may be done according to the Laws, Acts and Directions of State in that Case.

And least the Iesuits and Priests here, may pretend to be surprissed that a day certain may prefix their departure, and neither they nor other to return or come hither, upon peril of severest Penalties of the Lawes now in force. And that no Subjects receive, entertain or conceal them upon penalties, &c.

Seeing we are thus happily delivered from those Treaties, and [Page] the use which your ill affected subjects made thereof, and yet we fore see the like hereafter. We therefore are humble Suiters to your Majesty, To secure the hearts of your good Subjects, by your Royal word, That upon no occasion of Marriage or Treaty (or such other Request, from foreign Prince, or State what soever) you will slacken the execution of the said Laws against Iesuits, Priests, and Popish Recusants.

And humbly pray a gratious Answer.

§

The King doubting this double Petition, intended as a check to the main business, resolved yet to satisfie them.

That he commends both Houses for their Petition,The Kings Answer. but wonders at their suspition, to spur him on to his conscience and duty. That his Religion, Profession and behaviour, his own Books declare; nor will swarve from them, for he that dissembles with God, will be distrasted by Men.

That his heart bleeds at the increase of Popery, as thorns in his eyes and pricks in his sides. He hath alwaies desired to hinder the growth as a Martyr; As in the sense of Isaac, persecuted by Ismael by mocking words, as no King ever suffered more of ill tongues. Yet he hath been far from per seeuting, believing that rule, Sanguis Martyrum est semen Ecclesiae.

As for the Petition, he grants in substance what they ask, and adds of his own. Their Treaties being annulled their desire is granted, and will declare by Proclamation to banish Iesuits and Priests by a day, but a Proclamation here extends onely to this Kingdome.

He will do more, command his Iudges in circuit to put the Laws in Execution against Recusants, as before the Treaties, the Laws being in force, and never dispensed with by him; but as he told them heretofore, as a good Horseman to use sometimes the Reigns, not alwaies the spur. He promis [...]th by Declaration to disarm them; which indeed is done by the Laws. Nay, will disorder the Papists frequenting to Ambassadours Masses; for though he cannot break their privilege, yet the Lord Maior, and Officers may seize them as they come out. And resolves to order the Education of Recusants children, as he hath advised therein with his Bishops and Council.

The second part of the Petition is the best advice in the World, being against the Rule of Wisdome, that Subjects should transgresse a Law by Intercession of a Foreign Prince, and forst in such conditions in such a Treaty; which he will avoid in any whatever.

This his answer so satisfactory as pleased the Parliament. (Sa [...]es Calumny) [He promised much, Hist. Gr. Br. P. 275. and performed little.]

[Page]See what he did by the sequel. Order was forthwith to inroll the chiefest Recusants, you see he spares none, nor were the Parliament so nice as to leave the best of them out.

The Earl of Rutland, Sir Thomas Compton (the Dukes two Fathers in Law) the Countess his Mother, Earl Castlehaven, the Lords Herbert, Rivers, Peter, Morly, Windsor, Eure, Wootton, Teinham, Scroop; and of Knights, Courtney, Brewdnel, Somerset, Ireland, Stonners, Brown, Howard, Powel, Lacon, Lewkner, Awbery Gage, Shelly, Carvel, Wiseman, Gerrard, Filpot, Russel, Bedingfield, Wrey, Conwey, Iones, Conyers, Lamplow, Savage, Mosly, Beston, Riddal, Wyral, Townsend, Norris, Knevet, Tasborough, Selby, Tichburn, Hall, Perkins, Penruddock, Sands, and divers Esquires and Gentlemen, either by themselves or their Wives.

These men were all at Mercy, and who ever else the Parliament would pick out, with lime and baited Hooks to catch them; for the King not minded to interrupt them (having done his part) withdrew to New Market cold air, for his Northern conditions the most healthy.

The Prince increasing in years,The Princes Mariage with France, treated by the L. Kensington. and in affection of the People, it was most convenient also to speed him a marriage. The Treaties with Spain being thus far annulled. Some Overtures were hinted from France, of their willingness for a Match with Madam, the Princess Henri [...]tta Maria, the French Kings youngest Sister, the two others being preferred to Spain and Savoy.

And because it was necessary to feel the pulse of that State, Sir Henry Rich Lord Kensington, was sent over singly, and at his own time and discretion to mannage the discovery of the French affections. and then to present himself, with his credence.

He arrived (in no publique splendour) at Paris, on Sunday after Noon, and was informed that the King intended the next morning a journey for five or six daies to Shantelie a House of Momorancies, and therefore in private Kensington gave visit to the Duke of Chevereux, who with his Lady, were appareling for instant Actors in the Queens Mask, and within an hower came the Queen Regent and Madame and in an hours view might have this chata [...]ter.

The Sweetest Creature in France, Madames Character. her growth as her age little, her Discourse discreet and quick, and had the report of Wisdom beyond her years, and for additions of grace, she was said to dance and sing most sweetly, I am fure she lookt so.

My Lord had reason to suspect the Queens reserve towards him▪ she being Spanish, and so not well pleased with the breach of her Sisters match. But she was changed so much French, [Page] as to grace him with her hand. The King was told of Kensington, and because of his journey next Morning, purposed to receive him an Ambassadour, as some had suggested to him, untill Chevereux assured him the contrary, his comming meerly to kiss his Majestyes hand, and see the glory of his Court this Christmass; and so was taken to the Masque, danced by sixteen the greatest Princesses of France, with whom the King and his Masquers (the last Tuesday) were now by lot to dance with these Ladies, and all these, and the Court besides, so infinitely rich in Iewels (golden and silver dressing being there forbidden) as their apparel, almost all, [...]mbroidered and thick with Diamonds and Pearl, as usually with purl.

I doubt not, but some counter [...]eit, or else you might have suspected the wealth of that nation on their backs.

The presence of a Stranger, somewhat publique, presented to each persons caress made most men (acquainted with State) to judge the plot of his Journey, was rather to set an edge upon Spain; to cut off delayes, than to cut the throat of that business.

The Kings weakness or indisposition to affairs, gave leave and time to Queen Mother to mannage all; who receiving an humble visit by Kensington to kiss her hands, she entered discourse of the Spanish Allyance.

The Treaty (said he) had suffered many Delaies, and was annulled. Though the Spanish Ambassadour there, had given it out to be concluded, on purpose to prevent conjunction with France which he suspected, and his design got credit with some persons of power, seeing Kensington had no Credentials positive to speak to the purpose. Yet from others,France how affected. and not the meanest, he apprehended the affections of that State, generally prepared to receive offers of Amity and Allyance▪ when the dissolution of the other shall be declared.

Indeed the Savoy Embassadour there said, That the intention of the King of Spain, was for a Cross Match with France for himself.

But the late abuse upon the English in that way, made the French wary, and hastily to bite at that bate. Yet the reasons of State were not unequal. Our Design was double, both Marriage and League against Spain. And if the French should match with Spain, and so hold us to hard conditions, they have the safer ground; for they may expect restitution of the Valtoline, as we do demand the Palatinate, these two being the open quarrels on both parts to ground.

And these doubts were suspected to draw on a tedious Treaty and therefore it was thought fit by the English to insist upon the Match, and bring on the League, necessarily to follow, and [Page] to have reasonable conditions concerning Catholiques in England.

Indeed the necessity of the French Affairs, least Spain, that hath begirt them, should in time swallow them up, was like to make this Match easie enough for the English; the alarm being fresh in Court, from the Spaniards raising a fort upon the ruin, to command the Town of Liege.

Queen Mother, suspecting that Kensingtons errand was in earnest, by degrees, gave him incouragement to speak plain though it was his part to plead and wo too, without any signal.

The Duke of Chevereux and Le Grand, of credit and power both, were the men this Design most affected. Kensington bore the Princes Picture tackt to his Breast, limm'd in little in a Case of set Diamonds, which the Queen would offer to open, as to shew the Ladies, which they would as often desire, to please her Majesty, who (me thought) did love to look on it, She wishing that some good occasion might make them meet, and she might see him like himself. But because Madam. could not in modesty or honor get a glance of his shadow, she in private delt with a Madamoselle, that had some interest in one of the Lords Family, to borrow the Picture, and so in secret to gaze her fill, where in much hast she opened the Picture, and discovered her passions, her blushes not concealing her inward affections to his person, which she prized by praising his Picture in presence of him that saw her.

Two mouths calmed the way unto the Mother, she and Le Grand advised to move the King, if this business were fitted to the full.

But Kensington declined, as not to deliver the King his Masters inclination, unless he might receive the return, answerable to a due respect and value of the Proposition. Of which being assured, he took his opportunity to withdraw the K. towards the window, and told him,

That his journey to France was singly his own inclination to honour and serve him, and therein to discover how the Prince of Wales would be free and disingaged from the Spanish Treaty, not finding them to his expectation in such particulars as principally should invite a Conjunction. And therefore the Duke of Buckingham had exercised his interest with the King and Prince to convert those thoughts towards his Majesty, from whom it was perswaded, nothing but truth and honour would be returned, as an advantage to both Nations; And believed that if the King would shew a disposition inclineable, the effects would soon confirm the end of his comming, free from other Designs, than what he now expressed.

The King (often uncovered) said,

[Page]He had not heard, that the Match with Spain, was as yet broke, the just cause for him to be reserved. But assured him in general, That any propositions from the King of Great Brittain should be heartily received.

This was short,His Resentment. for his Imperfection of extream stammering by nature, made him usually speak very little, whose affection (if one might Guess by his courtesy) would have said more, as most of the Ministers of that State did, And that nothing to them was more equal than Amity and Allyance with England.

This entrance encouraged Kensington to discover himself and letters of Credence to the King, and so was quallified to treat fu [...]ther.

And to increase more than Jealousies in the young Count Soissons, Count Soissons a Pretender to Madame, who had some hopes of pretensions towards Madame, but now discouraged, and the more upon discourse of the Cardinal Rochfalcaut with his Mother, to take off all expectation? That in this Conjunction of Affairs, the King would no doubt prefer his Sister into England, with advantage of his Dignity, and her Honour, and (though he loved the Count) he would counsel his Master to the contrary with him.

Soissons encountring Kensington, Encounte [...]s a quarrel with Kensington. had his salute due to his rank, a great Peer of the Blood, who disdainfully turned aside, and so a second time; in presence of Grandmont, he told it to the Marquess de la valesse, a Confident of the Counts, who conveys it to Soissons, and was answered, That he affords no better Countenance to Kensington whom he hates not, but his errand, which he resented so ill, as were it not the behalf of so great a Prince, he had a heart to cut Kensingtons throat; And so retires out of Town.

This boldness of him, to aver Corrival with our Prince, and abuse of his Minister, made Kensington begin the quarrel with a Challenge, which the Count accepts, but the former passages were so narrowly observed, with the publick interest and honour of that State, so neerly concerned, that the Count was secured, and Kensington seized into several Courtships, as made it not possible to try the Combate, but were both made Friends by the King.

The Treaty on foot, and the Match mannaged most by the Constable, Monsieur de Vieuxville, who after some disgusts upon the peoples interest, was for that secured from their rage by a seeming imprisonment, and after rewarded by publique preferment, being the Queen Mothers Instrument also, to enter her neerer Favourite Cardinal Richlieu her Confessor, and great Confident,Cabinet [...]unto. and now introduced him also into the Cabinet Council, composed of the Queen Mother, the Cardinals Rochfalcour and Richliew, the Constable, and the Guard de Seaux.

[Page]To assist Kensington, comes over Carlile, with joint Commission to ballance the French Council.

The first difficulty likely to be insisted upon was Religion, wherein they were told the course that King Iames might be driven unto,The Earl of Carsile comes over Commissioner, and treat. to banish Iesuits and Priests, and quicken the Laws against other Catholicks, in necessity of reducing them within the bounds of obedience, correspondent to the expectation of Parliament now sitting; for without them this work of weight could not proceed, which with much altercation was at last resented as reason, upon hope of Moderation herafter, which was all they pretended unto.

And that the Grace theeof might the rather flow from the mediation of that State (so much stood upon by Spain) to save their honours therein, who otherwise would be held H [...] reticks.

And their good inclination forthwith appeared in the publick Treatment of the Ambassadours, for some time, at the Kings charge; which so heightned them thereafter, that their Expence so Magnificently profuse, was never matched by any.

Many subtilties lengthened the Treaty, the French following the former way of the Spanish delay, from their several Overtures to cross ours; and ministred an excuse, Of unseasonable concluding in this conjuncture of time, when such great changes are apt to beget jealousies from neighbour States.

And this was cunningly fomented by the Spanish Ambassadour, who vaunted, That there is not a greater change in La Vieuxville his preferment (who governed all) as there is in the General affections, which follow the stream of his greatness and credit.

Casting in the Kings mind the Seeds of doubt; whereto Olivares in Spain did contribute his Rodimentado to Bristol, not yet come home,

That if the Pope should grant a Dispensation for France, his Master would march to Rome, and sack it.

However, Kensington (who was more interessed to press the Princes affection, than his Collegue Carlisle) had leave to make Address unto Madame, at some distance, yet neerer than before, with such commands as the Prince had intrusted to him, which Queen Mother would know.

No (saies the Baron) that were in example to the like prejudice, which the Spaniard put upon the Prince.

She replyed, The Case is different, there he was in person, here but by Deputy.

But yet such a Deputy (saies Kensington) that represents his Person.

[Page]Mais pour tout celas, (dit elle) qu' est ce, que vous diret? Rien (dit ille) qui ne soit digne, des orcilles d' une si virtueuse Princesse. Mais qu' est ce? said she.

Why, if your Majesty will needs know, it will be much to this effect, and so in a way of freedom, exprest it thus,

That your Majesty hath afforded me liberty of free Discourse, presenting his Highness service, not by complement, but by passions of affections; which both her outward and inward Beauties, the virtues of her Mind hath so inlightened his resolve, as to contribute his utmost to her allyance, as the greatest happiness here upon Earth, if the Success might minister occasion to manifest his Devotion in adoring her.

And going on.

Aller aller (said she) il ny a point de danger en tout cela, je me fie en vous, se me fie.

But I dare say, he said more to Madame, who drank down the joy, and with a low courtesie acknowledged it to the Prince addi [...]g her extream obligement to his Highnesse in the happiness of meriting such eminent place in his good graces.

Then turns he to the old Ones that guard her, Ladies, saies he, Since the Queen grants me these freedomes, It would not ill become your Ladyships to speak and do suitable; Letting them know that the Prince had Madames Picture in the Cubinet of his heart as well as in his hand, and so fed his Eyes and Soul with sight, and contemplation until he should be blessed with her person.

This serving as a second Courtship to Her self, who no doubt took up each syllable as it fell from him; and such success followed, that Carlile had the Garter of Saint George sent him, snd the Baron converted to an Earl and called Holland.

The Princess appearing more in publique,Hist. Gr. Br. p. 178. Her Court and Train inlarged, and though our Embassadours had to do with harsh and subtile Clergy, and the rest, resolute Statists, yet so reasonable were the conditions on both sides, as that the Articles were received by King James, not long before his death, but not sworn unto (as some do say that he did) and worse would make us believe. [That Carliles comming was to delay the Treaty in hope of renewing that with Spain.]

A scandal [...]evised to make the King odious, and the Prince inconstant; for the copied Articles of several Transactions, and the original Dispatches are to be produced in answer to all.

And thus was the business mannaged abroad until she came over to be Queen of England.

These were times of Tryal at home, Inquisition upon all Mens actions, the King being willing to expose his greatest Ministers, who escaped not the censure.

[Page]The Lord Treasurer Cranfield is questioned for mismannaging the Exchequer. I find him of no mean Family in Gloucestershire, as by their Cote Arms in the Heraulds Office, Or, on a pale azure three flower de luces of the first.L. Treasurer Cranfield questioned in Parliament. He was brother to Sir Randolph Cranfield, who inherited their Fathers possession there and in other Counties of good value. This Man was bred a Merchant in London, and by his extraordinary qualities and blessings of God upon his endeavours, in that laudable way of Adventure, besides his understanding in the affairs of the customes, became useful to the State.

And first had the honour of Knighthood, Master of the Requests, then made Master of the Kings Wardrobe, afterwards Master of the Court of Wards and Liveries, and Privy Counsellour, Baron Cranfield, and lastly succeeded Suffolk in the place of Treasurer, and in that time created Earl of Middlesex, 1622.

And in all these Offices of trust I never knew him then, nor can find sithence any suspition, unless in that of the Treasury [the Ground where of is hinted to us by our Pamphlet,Co. & [...]ch. p. 166. but in truth in this he hath but scummed the pot to cleer the broth. For who more fit for the reasons of a necessitated Excheq [...]er than this man of experience, in stating the Accompts for the Revenues of the State, which I know he improved, and not unlikely thereby purchased envy for his eminency therein.

And to say truth, according to the duty of his place; he did endeavour to husband the same to piece out the expence, which the necessities of the Kings affairs had heightned (As himself told the Parliament) and the Princes journey into Spain, Hist. Gr. Br. p. 278. had wonderfully and unnecessarily exhausted,Mr. Prin, &c. as by the printed accompt thereof lately devulged by Parliament doth appear.

Then which no better evidence can be produced to acquit the Treasurer together, with what the Pamphlet publishes as a supposed crime in him [his refusal to supply the Princes expence and Buckinghams folly and prodigality.]

And this he did deny, as the duty of his Office required, and which he well understood, as being of Council, and acted as a Counsellor to my knowledge in that undertaking, and indeed being then the Statesman at the Council Table.

But his refusal of supplying Buckingham upon that score only, wrought him no doubt, at his return home the Treasurers deadly Enemy. And whom he opposed [A small accusation might serve the turn to turn out of all] as he did him; and yet to the honour of his Memory, though they raked into all his actions, and racked all Mens discoveries to the height of information, the eminency of his place, exposing him unto much observing and opening the way to all kind of complaints (as they did) examining nothing upon oath (as they never do) yet that [Page] there should be no more matter gleaned. And where there are such bolt [...]ngs, there was expected a great deal more Bran. Yet the power of Buckingham could never produce any crime against his exact Accompts in that boundless trust of the tempting Treasury. And in spite of Malice (he was envyed also) though they divested him of that office, yet he lived long after in peace and honour, and dyed since these last times of enquiry, 1650. leaving to his heir, his honour untaint, enabling them to bear up the character of their Fathers merit.

We are told [That the Duke got Chelsey house out of him for his part of his fine.] what shift the Author makes to patch up his Stories with falsities, when to my Knowledge that Seat was in treaty to be sold to another,Hist. Gr. Br. p. 279. and the Duke wanting a House neer hand to retire for a Nursery to his children, (his Duchess teeming) that other party, concluded for the bargain, and to him the Dnke paid the money, valuable to the utmost penny.

And the like Tale he tells [That the Lady Finch corrupted him with Copthall, a Noble Seat in Essex, to procure her to be Viscountess of Maidstone.] when the talk of the Town was, he had so dear a bargain as occasioned the saying, That it was cheap enough to him, being bought with the Kings Money, there needs much dung to stop a wide mouthed Oven.

Cranfield indeed was in this Kings life, the last of that Office, and the meanest of birth, lately altered from the Trust of Nobly-born persons.The late Treasurers more useful than others better born. The Treasury of antieut Spring-tides was of late sunck into neap-ebbs of Revenue, and enforced a necessity of providence in collecting, and judgement and practice in disposing: Neither of these could be found by experience suitable to our latern Lord like-breeding; ignorant and careless.

Yet in honour to the Office, the King raised other Men to Titles for countenance against the outward beseechings of the Mad-headed multitude of Suiters, as it happened to his Successor Lee, by the rudeness of the Sea men, and all to little to support a Treasurer without prejudice of publique esteem, even with the best Suiters by unhandsom treaties, between their necessities, and an empty Exchequer.

Besides, succession inherited the obloquies of former Predicessours, which happened frequent in this, and other places of Trust; not out of inconstancy in the Kings affections to his Ministers (the misreport of his wisdom) but to make Tryal of the chiefest Mistress of Instruction, to meet with the best.

And in such a change or remove he left them not unrewarded being never well himself, till his Servants were wealthy, least being cripled in hi [...] life, they might want an Hospital after his [Page] death. A mischief not seldom; much like a Lords well-mannaged Horse for his own saddle, comes often; afterwards to the Hackney-Coach, nay, and sometimes dyes in drawing a Dung-Cart.

He knew Men, and had them to his Mind or made them so; able capacity not bare measure; rather with surplusage equal to the business he imployed them.

Yet he had easy natures neer his person too, because more manageable, than abler men, in such matters where their hands were more useful than their brains.

But say some, the King raised men to preferment of honour and dignity, whose birth and Gentry were extinguished by being Apprentices.

Hence they start their Opinion,Digression. Apprentiship is no bondage That it is a kind of Bondage;

I deny to be either vera Servitus, or omnino Servitus, the Contract is but Civil Permutatio or Exchange. The obligation is mutual, Master and Man; only Freemen can make contracts, and Challenge the benefit.

The Oath of a Freemans admission is, To take no Prentice but freeborn, no Bondmans son.

It were madness to imagine that Jacob served his Uncle Laban seven years in the honourable contract for a Worthy Wife, and for an Estate to maintain her, to be therefore a Bondman.

By which example in Scripture, it is undeniable, That Servire to serve, is laudable for good and honest purposes; but our Apprentice does but deservire, obey, and his Master does docere, teach him his Trade; and of late the Apprentice comes commonly more like a Wife with a large portion to his Master.

Indeed Erasmus Roterodamus his Etymology makes of our Apprentices to be pares emptitiis, as with the Romans, but they differ. Servus with them, was of Servando, saving, not of Serviendo, of serving.

Our Apprentice comes of Apprenti, the French Word; a Raw Souldier, or to learn, or of the Latine apprehendo.

So then sir Tho. Smiths Repub. Angl. does them injury, terming them Bondslaves.

Bondmens bodies, were vested in the Lord interminable, but only by Manumission, and that by the Will of the Lord, without any condition in behalf of the slave.

Servus with the Romans, Nullum caput habuit, and were reputed, civiliter mortui: servi pro nullis habiti.

There was a voluntary bondage, de jure gentium as by the Romans, a Man might sell himself, ad participandum pretium. And also de jure divino positivo, So the Hebrews Bondmen. Yet they had not jus in corpus, they could not violate her chastity.

[Page]By our Law only two sorts of Bondmen, villains in gross, and vilains reguardant to Mannor.

A Master in London hath not despoticum imperium over his Apprentice, but only quasi curaturam, a Teacher, ut Pater, non Tyrannus, immoderate Correction looses his Apprentice, who is by Statute to be free from him, 5. Eliz.

But of late our City discipline, had more need to be reduced to antient severity, than to be abduced from it.

The final Cause of every Ordination quallifies the course; and determines the Means and action, tending to it, though abstracting from that consideration, the work wrought in the proper nature be servile; as for a Souldier to dig, or carry earth to a Rampire, a Student to be bare, or a Novice to do servile Offices, and so an Apprentice to do, does not extinguish Gentry, and what ever he does, as not sui juris, yet he does nothing Servile, but propter finem nobilem, to God, Country and Calling.

But Apprentices are so far from being bondmen, that then they begin habere caput, to be aliqui, and by degrees to be free, then of the Livery, and by after degrees become Wardens, Masters, Common Council, Aldermens Deputies, Aldermen, Sheriffs, Lord Maiors.

And by further merit, Counsellours to the King, and Lord Treasurers of England, and so if it be rashness to cast a scorn upon a renowned Corporation unjustly, let it be iniquity to lay it upon London, which in the Empire of Great Brittain, amongst their other Cities,

Velut inter ignes

Luna Minores.

And though the Schools and Camp are most proper for Honour and Arms, yet the antient wisdome and bounty of Sovereigns, left the Gates of honour open to City Arts, and honest gain, as fundamentals to common-wealths, by example of rising Rome under her first Dictators and Consuls. By which they avoided Tyrannical appropriation of Gentry, to some certain old families, as in Germany, and the Confusion of allowing hereditary Nobleness or Gentry to none at all, as in Turky, &c.

And with us Cotes of Arms, and Title of Gentlemen being the most familiar part of Honour, Our Adversaries would overturn, and tax our policies in that point, which being once gotten and given by Merit or Favour, cannot be lost or extinguished.

No man in England looseth his right to bearing Arms, or Title of Gentleman, unless attainted in Law.

Jura Sanguinum nullo jure civili devinci possunt.

[Page]Not to be aliened to another, no more than to pass away any habit or quality of the Mind, Virtue or Learning.

Queen Elizabeth was descended lineally from Sir Godfrey Bullen, Lord Maior of London, by Queen Anne Bullen her Mother.

Sir Martin Calthrope, her Kinsman also, and Lord Maior of London.

Citizens of London have been called Barons, Hen. 3. Londinenses, Quos propter Civitatis Dignitatem & civium antiquitatem Barones consueuimus appelare.

London sends Kinghts and Citizens to the Parliament, not Burgesses.

And sundry of our Sovereigns have daigned to be of their Freedome.

But the opinion of bondage, and extinguishing birth-right of Gentry, hath filled England with more Vices, and sacrificed more bodies to odious ends, and more souls to sinful life, than perhaps any other uncivil opinion whatsoever. Holding it better to rob than to labour, though they dayly see, that out of Our Apprenticeships rise such Ministers of Iustice, as sit upon Malefactors, when they (a shame and sorrow to their Kindred) undergo a fortune too unworthy the basest of Bondmen. May not his Sons fall into the same fate, by the Fathers prejudicate opinion? So much in honour of truth, not interest.

The Hollanders in these times rich and proud at home,Cruelty of the Dutch in Amboyna. increased so mighty in power also in the East Indies, that by insenseable Incroachments at first, they went on to quarrel particular rights and interests in several places there, for sole trading from the English.

And complaint being sent hither by the Governours of our Factories there. A Treaty was demanded by the King, and accordingly Commissioners appointed to dispute their differences in London 1613. The next Treaty was at the Hague, 1615. The last was at London 1619. And by Amnesty then, a Solemn Composition of all differences, and Orders were concluded for the future between us and them. And in regard of their bloodshed and vast expence, in reducing the Trade of the Islands, Molucca, Banda and Amboyna from the Spaniards and Portugals, and their buildings and Forts; therefore the Hollanders should enjoy two thirds, and the English the other third; and the charge of the Forts to be levyed by Taxes and Impositions upon the Merchandize, and so were settled in those places.

The Island of Amboyna lies neer Seran, about fourty Leagues in compass, and hath relation to other Factories, the chief Town [Page] called also as the Island Amboyna, the Rendevouz for the gatheing and buying of Cloves, the chief Commodity; the smaller Factories are H [...]o, Larica, Loho, and Cambello. The Hollanders Forts there are four, strong and well manned, with two hundred Dutch Souldiers, and a Company of free Burgers, four hundred Mardikers, or free Natives, so called. And here the English lived in the Town▪ and under protection of the Castle in an House of their own.

During two years the Dutch very cunningly wasted too much upon their Fortifications and Garrisons, and yet drew their Account so chargeable to the English, that instead of the third part, they contributed two thirds, and their complaints were examined by the Counsel of Defence of both Nations, residing in Jaccatra in the Island Java Major, and they disagreeing, the differences, were to be sent home to be decided herein by both Companies, or by the King and their States, according to an Article, 1619.

But disputes breed delay here, and increased jealousies there, and in February One thousand six hundred and twenty two, A Japoner Souldier discoursing with a Dutch Centinel of the Strength of the Castle, was suspected and tortured, and confessed sundry of his Countrey-men contrivers with him of surprizing the Castle, who were also tortured, and one Price, an Englishman and Prisoner with them, who also accused others of the Factories, Captain Towerson, Tomson, Beomont, Collins, Webber, Ramsey, Johnson, Farde, and Brown; and these being sent for, from the other factories with horrid Tortures either in truth, or for pain of Torment, some of them confessed,

That two Japoners should have gone to each point of the Castle, and two to the Governours chamber door, and when the Mutiny or Alarum should cause the Governour to come out, the two Japoners to kill him for the reward of 1000 Royals a piece.

Towerson was tortured and confessed, That he swore all the English at Amboyna, to be secret to his plot, with the Japoners, to surprize the Castle, and to kill the Dutch; to this effect divers were accused, condemned and suffered Death, viz. 10. English, 9. Japoners, and 1 Portugal.

The manner of the tortue was thus:

First, they hoised the Examinant up by the hands with a Cord on a large door, fastning him upon two Staples of Iron on the Top, as wide as the arms could stretch; his feet hung to the ground stretched out at length and wideness, fastned beneath the Door. Then they wrapt a cloath about his Neck and face so close that no water could go by.

That done, powring the water leasurely upon his head, and filling the Cloth up to his Mouth and Nostrils that he could not draw breath, but [Page] [...] [Page] [...] [Page] must withall suck in the Water, and so continued till it forced his inward parts to come out of his Nose, Eyes and Ears, stifling and choaking him into a Swound or fainting, but being taken down, they make him vomit out the Water, and so somewhat recovered, they torture him again four or five times; his body Swoln three times bigger, his cheeks like Bladders, his eyes staring out beyond his browes; yet still Colson denyed their accusation; then they burn him under his Paps, arm-holes, elbowes, hands and feet, till the fat dropt out their Torches, lodged him in a Dungeon, his flesh putrified, Maggots ingendred to an horrid and loathsom condition, till at the eight daies end they were executed, in March 1623.

At which instant a sudden Darkness and tempest, two of their Dutch Ships were forced from Anchor in their safe harbour, and almost perished.

One Dunckin their Accuser, stumbled at their Grave (all buried in a Pit) fell stark Mad, and dyed so within three Dayes after.

A sickness followed at Amboyna of 1000 Dutch, where 30 dyed, not usual in that space.

And in time the Relation is sent into England, by the next return of the Ships, which appeared so horrid, that a Defence thereof was imprinted and sent hither out of Holland. And Sir Dudly Digs undertakes for our East Indie Company to publish the truth and answer that Pamphlet; and the Governour of Amboyna, leaving his Command, was forced by fowl weather upon our Coast his Ships seized on, and his person brought to give an accompt hereof before our Admiralty; Some Assistants Delegates appointed Iudges; but then the Examinations and Confessions under their hands, comming hither, before any returned on the part of the English viva voce, to confute them.

And (though suspected yet) for the present set aside, till further confirmation. In the mean time the Description of the English in their several tortures, was lively put in draft and painting; so horrid as that the King and Council, thought fit to burn it, least the monstrous appearance should incense the English to a National Quarrel.

So great force and resemblance hath that Art with Nature that the effects thereof fell upon Towersons Widow, who at sight of the Picture fell down in a Swound, with hazard then in that Trance, to follow her Husband, which the often Relation before, did not so much astonish.

The disparity of a Po [...]tical pen, with the powerful art of painting, may thereby be distinguished.

But to return to the Design of the Parliament, which went [Page] on (in their manner) for the Recovery of the Palatinate, by War, and as the King feared to imbroyl him in the busines [...]e with pittiful effects, which themselves meant to mannage. And now they provide four brave Regiments under commands of the Earls of Oxford, Southamption, Parliament design for war and raise four Regiments. Essex, and the Lord Willougby, elected by the Parliament, who afforded (forsooth) favour to the King to present them their Officers most Scots. But indeed for number of Men, fifteen hundred in a Regiment, and well armed they were compleat, the King hastening these away, and with them, wished (no doubt) more of their mind, that sent them, for these were discontents, and transported into Hollvnd, to join with the States Army intentionally to divert Spinola, who was in arms for the King of Spain. Land in Holland. and join with the P. of Orange against Spinola. The English no sooner landed, and quartered into Garrisons, hardly drilled to obedience, were suddenly called out to Service, for Spinola was in the Field, fitted for Enterprize, lay hovering in Brabant, sends Count Iohn Nassaw, of the House of Orange, (but alwaies faithful to his Sovereign) with a flying Army towards Cleve, and after him Marches the Prince of Orange up the Moze, first to Ginnegen to the Rendevouse, where his Army mustered twenty five thousand; thence to Mastrick in deadly fear of a Siege, and so to the Town of Cleve, lately taken in by the Count which was now soon rendred to Maurice, and he was watch all this way by the other. In this time Spinola with freedome to choose his Design, began with Spade and Pick ax, and fell to digging about Breda, the twenty sixth of August 1624. and had earthed suddenly so large and deep as Maurice, Who besieges Breda. the craftier Fox that way, yet knew not how to unlodge him, but returns down the River to Guitrudenburgh, and incamped at Mede, some houres journey from Breda; and there besieges the Besiegers.Maurice encamps at Mede The wonder of which was so famous then as deserves particular Remembrance now.

This Barony and Town of Breda with eighteen Villages belonged to the Dukes of Brabant, and sell to the Family of Nassaw, Breda sometime the D. of Brabant. by a Wives Dowry 1404. and so remained for one hundred sixty three years, till by revolt of William of Nassaw, the Duke d' Alva possest it for the King of Spain, 1567. from whom Count Holloch took it for Nassaw 1577. and from them surprized 1581. and then again regained by Stratagem in a Turfbote, where lay hid seventy Souldiers (like the Graecians in the Trojan horse) and wan it for Nassaw, 1590. who held it to this Siege.

It is scituated in the uttermost part of Brabant, adjoining Holland, Pleasant scituation. pleasant, strong and wealthy, most convenient for either Nation.

[Page]The territory about by Sea-tides or inundation of waters, may be made unaccessable. And therefore the Prince about two years before, had with some additions and fortifications made it invinceable, against all but hunger, and with much delight called it his Tempe.

The Arch Duchesse Isabella, Infanta of Spain, and dowager of Prince Albert, Arch-duchess Governess of Flanders. now Governesse in Flanders under the King of Spain, gives Commission to Spinola, Lieutenant General of the Spanish Forces, who in Iuly 1624. departs from Bruxels, with an Army of eighteen thousand, divided into three parts, the more to distract the Dutch, The condition & strength of Breda. who in some doubt, re-inforces Breda, with twenty foot Companies, and dismst three Troops for better freedom of Forrage. Two Rivers run through the Town, a Tower three hundred sixty two foot high, fit to discover a far off; the houses twelve hundred.

The form of Breda seems three square, but that the Castle bears out with several Fortifications of Bulwarks and Bridges, and an Armory of double ditches a mile in compass, makes another side; and so beautiful with Galleries, Pillars, Walks, and Gardens, that it seems to excell the strength. The Town Walls are all of Turf, with a continued row of Oaks, and at three Corners, are three several Ports, and the Castle Port, fourteen Bulwarks. with Artillery upon the Walls, and several Windmills. Two Platforms raised, whose Artillery played afar off; beneath these, two lesser Bulwarks, to which there is a passage under ground, the Ditch one hundred and fifty foot broad in some places, and in other seventy foot. In the Ditch fourteen Ravelins triangle, and the River encompasseth all; five great Outworks, secure the Counterscarfs, being cast up before the four Ports of the Town and Castle, the the longest curtain of the Town, cut round with Ditches thirty foot broad; the level sides of these works, are 210 foot long, one hundred and fifty foot broad; and the largest of them before the Castle, is two hundred fourty paces long. Other fortifications, strengthen this outwork, and with such excellent order, are all disposed most admirable.

Iustin Nassaw base brother to Prince Maurice was now Governour, Justin Nassaw Governor. Artsen Lord Wermont made Drossart, to dispose the victual and restrain mutinies; Town Collonel and of the Councill: it was reinforced with eight companies, eighteen hundred Townsmen of Arms, excellent sufficient provision of all sorts, and each Townsman furnished himself with Corn for a twelve Moneth.

In one night the two sides of this Town was beseiged, Don de Medina, The siege begins 26. Aug. a Spaniard took up the village of Gineken, and Paul [Page]Ballion an Italian, with some Strangers, and Arguile with Scots, settled at Terheyde a village opposite; and at Noon, came Spinola with his whole Army. This first day intercepting 12. Boats carrying provision to Breda; an Omen of success to regain many Botes, what was lost by One. Then was fortified Titeringen, and Hage, two other Villages, opposites on the other side.

Each quarter intrenched with Earth, eight foot high, and a eleven foot thick, and a Ditch about all seven foot deep, and bottomed, but four foot broad; above water 10. foot broad. Then from those quarters began their first inclosure, to beguirt the Town. with a continued Trench, containing three thousand six hundred paces; the inward Trench against the Town was distant from the outward two hundred paces. In which space, they passed from quarter to quarter, being in compass 5 hours going. The Trenches five foot high and seven foot thick, at the bottom, on the outside a ditch, sunck six foot deep, and seven foot broad, on the top of the water, Forts and Redoubts belonging to these Works, seventy.

And thus with four quarters, like four Armies, this excellent service was designed and perfected by Don Io. de Medices, Marquess of St. Angelo, in eighteen daies.

Spinola's provision came far, from Antwerp to Mechlin, Provisions from several places. four hours and a halfs journey (as they reckon their distances) thence to Lime three hours to Herentals four hours; to Turnhout four more, to Hogstrought three and a half, in all, above twenty hours journey to his Quarters, much about, when in truth Antwerp lyes but ten hours direct from Breda, but P. Maurice at home had his with ease and plenty.

The first Sally out of the Town,Sally out of the Town, & ill success. with much loss was repulsed by Count Isenbergh; this ill beginning made them less hearty to hazard often sallyes; which would have been troublesome to the Besiegers to fortifie and fight; yet so busie they were, with their own works as kept them in health, all old Souldiers, inured to hardship. But Manrice had many new men without, with more idleness, which brought sickness and infection to all.

The Town of Breda, industrious with singular defence, the Burgers and Souldiers firmly united. Every man by Oath lends his store of money to the States; all the Officers did so too; whose good example brought one hundred and fifty thousand Crowns, which paid the Souldier, and for their Works, and their coin was cryed up.

About the end of September, Prince of Poland comes to Spinola. the Prince of Poland came from home, through the same of this siege to see it; conducted from Bruxels into Spinola's Camp, and entertained with three Vollies of Artillery, and small Shot, Drums and Trumpets; which [Page] which at first put us in doubt in Prince Maurice quarters, that the Enemy was in storm, but the Town felt some of those Bullets with little hurt; and the next Morning the besieged bestowed as many on Spinola's Troops, conducting the Poland to see the works, whose opinion was, That the Dice were cast between two Matchless Generalls, and their Reputations were at take.

Eight French No [...]les, unwilling to be cooped up, adventured to quit the Town, and to get through the Enemies Camp, but were taken, and either to go to France, or be returned in to Breda, they in honour accepted the later.

The Prince of Orange, with his Army in this time, being come down by water and land to Gytrudenbergh, and so incamps at Mede, a village three hours journey from Breda, and there besieges the Besiegers, without any attempt upon Spinola (though at this time weak, and his horse absent to convey back the Poland) who therefore with seven thousand foot, and thirty Troops of horse, marches out of his Trenches to meet Maurice neer Ousterholt within three miles of his Camp,Spinola takes in Ousterholt. and got possession of that place before him, the very mischief to Breda, for betwixt Titrengen and Terheyde, lay vast, void places, dry land and standing waters, by which Waggons and flat Boats, might relieve Breda with victual; so much advantage is expedition, though but some hours; and here he raises a great Fort, levels the ground and dares the Prince to Battail.

Who not accustomed to Ostentation, but military circumspection, made more use of fore-cast than force, and gave his Enemy time, to raise five Forts more, separate, to keep all passage.

It hath been usual, with Armies in Camp,Combating between each Camp. to allow of Combates single, or equal numbers, with their Enemie. And now one Briante, a French Galiant, weary of looking on, that came to fight, besought the Princes leave to send a challenge to young Grobendouck, the Son of his Fathers murtherer (as he stiled him) who slew him, long since, at such a meeting; Grobendouck accepts; but Spinola, giving much value to the Man, secured his person, and denyed the challenge. Bryante the more fiery,Bryante against Count John of Nassaw. by being refused; tacks about to be revenged on any; and by his Trumpet, summons Count Iohn Nassaw, single, or with numbers. He indeed without dread of any Mans daring, and above the quality of asking leave, accepts the challenge, and three more, the next Morning, at a fair distance, between the Camps. His seconds were Captain Steenhius, and two horse Lieutenants. Bryante and his Comrades, furious Frenchmen (we need not name them, they would be disguised) advance forward [Page] and at a convenient distance,Anno 1625. a half Troop of Horse, behind the Combatants to see fair play; and a hundred further off, lookers on.

In like manner came on Count Iohn, who upon the carrier, passes Bryante, and discharges so close upon a Frenchman, that the Pistol flame fired his Shoulder, but had received before the others Bullet in the brow of his Saddle, indangering the Counts Codpiece, for it pierced through, and grazed his flanck; angry Bryante, having lost his aim, wheels short on any, and cryes out, Charge Moy! charge Moy! be what thou darest, I am Bryante, revenger of my Fathers blood; and as fate would fixes upon him who indeed was Lieutenant to Grobendouck, that for his Captains cause chose the quarrel, and both spurr'd, Bryante fires, too far off,Bryante killed and mist his deadly aim; the other came closer, and clapt his bullet through Bryantes belly, who dying, catcht hold of the others Saddle pommel, but sanck down to the ground. Thus was it the fortune of father and Son, to be the cause of eithers ruin.

Steenhius was hurt,Steenhius hurt. and another killed. But Bryante his deadly case, the cause of all, gave occasion to withdraw the Combate, whether by consent I cannot say, but as my eyes conceived at a distance, though the Spanish say, the Dutch came in to part them.All retire. Indeed Count Iohn retired, unwilling to ingage Forces, which drew up on both sides, and therefore the Count made hast away, and was out-rid by one of his own, at getting the start, the hilt of whose Sword, (pressing close) caught hold of the Counts bridle, and snapt it out of his hand, and therein the others Sword so fast intangled, that it drew out of the Scabbard, prickt the horse and scared the Rider; but astonishment to the Beast to be ill used, and yet his reins so loose, made him suddenly to leave pransing, pause and stop, for the Count to recover all.

At this encounter Count Maurice was Spectator, and I believe Spinola; but not so publick, either of them as to be well guarded, for I am sure the Prince put his dapple Nag to a dangerous leap, and ever after was displeased with this Duelling, that might have endangered eithers Army.

Yet one Bouteville, Bouteville against Beauvoix. such another Beautefeau as Bryante, with five more, set upon the Baron of Beauvoix, of like Number, and forced them into a Grove, within their Guard.

Bouteville boasting what he was, advanced alone, and challenged any one, confiding more in his own valor, than his secret Goslet (for indeed he was daring enough, though by chance he had it under his Coat) but he was bidden begon, with a Musket ball in his Breech, which made him let fall his Pistol and retire with raging pain. This was he that had fought as the [Page] French say,Anno 1624. twenty Duels, and therein killed a dozen, and was now hunting counter for an Enemy in Holland, who was fled from France, and to beard Boutevile, had worn a slip of his Mistresses Riband. He killed him here, and afterwards returns home again, fought so frequent in France, that at last for a desperate Duel, in the midst of the Pallace Royal, and the death of his adversary, with much ado had his head taken off by the Hangman.

These were all the Recreations the resty Gallants used to imploy their Spirits, whilest the Camps faced each other, at gaze only, and in truth it became the Pastime of the Centuries, Perdues, and Out-guards, oftimes a dozen, or more, horse or foot, went a birding (as the English termed it) to meet with booties, or broken Pates; not a day past, but some hot spirit advanced from the Guards, and dared the Enemy at these duellings, and one or other kist the ground.

Prince Maurice, Design to surprize the Castle of Antwerp. not idle of designing, set on foot an Enterprise, better than Breda, which had been in his deliberation from the first time of the Siege, to surprize the Castle of Antwerp, and to that end all our Out-guards at Bergen-op-zome, Rosendale, and Mede, kept strict watch for this Secret, that so Spinola's Camp little dreamt of it. The Stratagem committed to a Dutchmans Command, one Brouchen, Drossart of Bergen, and Captain of a Horse Troop [...] that for the assurance and ease of it, the honor mightnot fall upon any other Nation. Out of all quarters, he pickt out a thousand foot, and two hundred Horse, Dutch, with Waggons and Engines suitable. The Souldiers out of either Guards, amuzed to march to several places, untill at distance gotten out together, they had order to alter the Orange Colours into the Red Scarf, and Colours of Spain, and their Waggon Canvas marked with the Burgundian Cross, to pass unsuspected of the Pesant; and (if demanded) to answer, they marched to Antwerp for Provisions, whether indeed the Enemy had designed such an errand, and at dead and a dark night, they arrived neer the Castle, forthwith seizing Out-guards, pulling down three or four stakes of the Pallasado for a passage, and already gotten upon the Bridge; the Wind so assisting as carried away all noise of the Waggons, neys of the Horses, or clattering of Arms; and so having let down their Boats into the Ditch, fastening their scaling Ladders, making ready their [...]insers, Hammers, Leavers, and Engines, to break Baracadoes and to lift Ports off their Hinges. And thus as silent as mlght, yet comming too near, an Old Souldier Centinel, one Andrea Cea a Spaniard, he listened to an unusual murmuring noise, and like a tryed Blade discharged his Musquet, which alarmed Iuan Bravo, the Spanish Governour and Guard, who got to the walls, [Page] and the Dutch to their Heels, lest all their Instruments and Engines, evidences what they ment to do.

In our Camp at Mede, we had a flying report of the good successe of some excellent Enterprize;Mis [...]eport of it at the Camp. which no doubt our General himself, too much assured of good effects, had revealed. But when it was blasted and better known, the Prince to excuse his Countrey-men, complained only of their quick Spirits, confidence, and too much hast in the execution. It was my chance to be there when Brouchen came in to yield up the accompt of his miscarriage; and with him an English excellent Engeneer, one David Collet, who over a sip or two of Brandwine, protested to me that he by Boat and wading was got upon the Bridge-end, and fixed his Pittard upon the Castle-Gate, that the Century called (indeed) qui-va-la, as but suspecting, for after a good while silence, he seemed satisfyed, when (said he) the cowardly Dutch scared at his voice only, left the Enterprize, and ran away, leaving him to wade and swim back again in cold weather, with a hundred shot, by guess, about his ears, for then the Century discharged his Piece, and not before.A second Design.

Another such design afterwards committed to the charge of Statenbrunk Governour of Grave, which intruth, failed by the hand of neaven; the monstrous showers of Rain, moistened their powder pans, made their Muskets unserviceable, and some fires upon the Walls of the Castle, gave suspition of Discovery, and so they retired in Confusion.

Then we endeavoured to relieve Breda by Boats,Enterprize by Boats to relieve Breda. flat bottomed, strong and able to brook the tyde ebbs, and Danger of Sands or Shelves, armed with six Cannon of Brass, with Iron and Fire Balls, laden with Corn shut up in Pots, with Cheese, Bacon, Lard, &c. and filled with choise Musqueteers. They of the Town, forewarned of the time, furnished fourteen Boats also, six of them armed with six pieces of Artillery and Fireballs; the other six with three hundred Musqueteers. These should drive with the Ebb upon the Boats of Provision; and six hundred men by land should sally out neer the River side;Spinola's prevention. Spinola by quick intelligence fortifies the Black causey, crosse the drowned Meadows, over flowing twice in twelve hours, and so by passage to the Town; and after the ebb to wade through on foot. The wind was at first very favourable for the Boats, to bring them out, but suddenly quite contrary, and so languishing [...]or a change, our provisions taking wet and purloyned by the Souldier, the whole Enterprize was frustrated.

Anoaher Design of Maurice was,Design to draw neer Spinola. to draw neer unto Spinola's quarters, by dispossessing the Enemy of Ousterholt Steeple, [Page] kept by twenty two of their men for discovery,Anno 1625. back by an Horse Troop. The Dutch with a Pittard blew up the Steeple, and retired; the fire ascends to the place of their Powder, which with great difficulty they removed, and flung away; and with stones from above (their best weapons) killed some below, but the poor Spaniards above burnt to death, except three or four escaping with wonderful hazard, scrambling down without the Steeple, and horridly scorch'd, with honourable scars, under their black patches all their lives after.

And (another Design, not the least) so they set fire on Ginnegen Church, where Spinola had six thousand Sacks of Meal, with a Granary of Oats, and much other Magazine provision, which put the Enemy to the inconvenience of Recruit.

These and such like were endeavours to have done more.

After thirty daies encamp at Mede, the Prince very pensive and sad, fires his quarters, leaving the place to the Enemy, and warily retreats in two divisions, Himself and Count Ernest to Rosendale, from whence he retires home to the Hague, never appearing in publick to his death, not long after. His Brother Henry with the other division fortifies Sprang; some hopes were surviving if cold weather, and want of provision to inforce Spinola.

And besides the good hap of Count Mansfield was come out of Germany into the Skirts of Brabant, with his roving Regiments, and scattered troops of the Duke of Brunswick, both beaten out of Germany by Tilly and Cordoua. And these men (God knowes) more like Travellers than Fighters, were rather rumored than numbred to be ten thousand, in truth not six thousand, without Arms, Money or Provision, and as outragious, where relieved which unwillingly was every where, to be rid of such Guests; necessity inforced them into those ways, which hath taught that practice of late daies to the Duke of Lorain. But in fine they having no means nor maintenance their Men forsook their Masters, and Mansfield and Brunswick became Courtiers at Hague.

And thus at leasure the Count was invited by Projectors in England, and promises out of France, slender enough on all sides to seek an Army to seize the Palatinate; and imbarquing at Zealand in the depth of Winter and foul weather, split upon the Sands at his setting out, but himself and some Followers escaped in the long boat; got aboard of a Pinck, and came safe to England, the Ship, Captain and Seamen swallowed in the Sea.

He was caressed here by hearsay of his Honourable fame, and shortly a Press for twelve thousand foot; His Horse were conditioned from France and Germany (as he said) whither his [Page] Design was to journey. And six fresh Regiments soon raised by young Collonels,Anno 1624. the Earl of Lincoln, the Lord Doncaster, (son to Carlisle) the Lord Cromwel, Sir Charles Rich, Sir Iohn Burrows, With six Regiments and two Troops. (late Governour of Frankendale) and Collonel Grey, an old Scotch Commander, a tuff tryed old Buff-blade.

The Earl of Lincoln for more honour, had a Troop of horse, and to accompany him, Mr. Gunter, an active Horseman, and professed Rider raised the other Troop, and of him a Writer is much offended [as if none could command Horse (quoth he) but Hist. Gr. Br. p. 283. such as can make them curve [...] in a Riding house.] belike he meant to prefer Lincolns Lordship of greater ability, who truly till that time, had never bestrid a mannaged horse, nor durst for fear of falling.

And in February they mustered in Kent, attending for shipping and readiness of his French Horse, to receive him at Calais, but lying here over long, the raw Souldiers not well disciplined, that Marshal law could not keep them in aw, and at last shipped for Calais, one hundred and twenty Sayl, lay there hovering to have leave to land, the French Horse not being ready, nor that State willing to hazard such raw and unruly men through their Countrey, that were so ill tutured at home, and so upon likelyer hopes, were forced to [...]ail for Zealand, and for the former reasons, anchored at Ramekins, till the States could better consider what to do with them, rather wanting provisions than men; and weighing anchor, up they sail to Guitrudenbergh, but not permitted to set them ashore, pestered on Shipboard with si [...]all provision, and such as putrified, stench begat pestilence, and to be rid of general infection, the sick were flung overboard, ere half dead; nay some of them floted to shore, and lived long time after. And at last of their whole number, there landed not six thousand, and those well aired, were mingled with the other English, serving to recruit their weakned Regiments. Yet the very noise of this new Army put Spinola to procure great succours from the Arch-Duchess, Spinola procures fresh Forces, till he was 38000 horse and foot, and wrought another outward Trench about his former works of fifty two thousand paces, much larger than the other, which before was but three thousand six hundred paces.and makes double larger Trenches.

Indeed after ages may make it too monstrous to be true; for Caesars at Durace, was but fifteen thousand, and Pompeys but nine thousand paces. This Trench was ten foot high, and fifteen foot thick at the bottom, and six at the top, rising five foot high; the ditch seven foot deep about it, and fifteen foot broad, and again each several quarter, with new Trenches. In all a very labyrinth of Trench and fortification, expecting to be forced. Thus far was subtile Spinola deceived with fears of foreign [Page] forces to join with the Prince. Anno 1625. And Mansfeild, (to amuze the more) took upon him to write to the Arch-duchess) To permit him leave to pass (towards the Palatinate as he pretended) and to victual his supposed Army) through the Spanish Provinces as (to comply with the King of England his Masters commands) he must of necessity pass unto. Mans [...]'d desires passage to the Palatinate.

But he had no answer.

On the sudden at Sprang (the Dutch Quarters) we heard three several volleys of shot,Breda's holy day. great and small, from Breda; but the English, strangers to the design, were told that it was the Holyday Triumph, the Anniversary fourth day of March of the surprize of Breda from the Spaniard by the Turfeboat 1590. which was now done saies Herman Hugo this year very solemn, more like the funeral than the birth, as being their last day.

When yet (though lost a little while after) it was regained by the Dutch in anno and remains to the States this day, 1654.

The next Moneth gives up the Audit of Prince Maurice, who died at the Hague, P. Maurice dies, Apr. 1625 full of years and honourable fame, in April 1625. and his Brother Prince Henry gon thither to solemnize his Obsequies,P. Henry Generalissimo. returns back with ample powers as the other enjoyed over the whole Army Generalissimo.

King Iames lately dead, [...]. of Oxfords Enterprize upon Terhelda. the Earl of Oxford being sent for, into England, moved Prince Henry, the new General, to have the honour of an Attempt, to break into Spinola's quarters. The design was by the Causey, that leads from Guitrudenbergh to Treheida, which was fortified with two dry ditches, a Redoubt, a breast work, and a large Fort. His forces were six hundred foot choice English, assisted with the person of his Uncle, that tryed excellent Souldier Sir Horatio Vere, with fifteen hundred more English the Vantguard, and some Germane and French following, in all four thousand. In the Rear the Artillery and some Troops of Horse. The Enemy got warning, and prepared to receive us that way, but where to fall he knew not. But whilst we gave them of Spinola's Camp, false alarms, we immediately fell upon the Italian quarter Carlo Roma, and surprised a foot Centinel per du, and so got to the Redoubt, which we forced with fire Balls, and drove them to retire, and placing our men about the Redout in dry Ditches, with undaunted courage we won the half Moon before the Fort; labouring with hands and feet to scale the Rampire, upon which Oxfords Ensign fixt his colours, and with therest leaped into the Fort, where the Italians fought well ere they were beaten out. Those also of the other causey, which leads to Sevenbergh adjoining, quit their Trenches and fled.

The English (saies our Enemy) maintained their Fight with [Page]that fury and resolution, as if no other occasion could make proof of their worth and valour.

The Enemy thus engaged, began to disorder and fly into the face of a fresh company of Foot sent to their Relief, and so mixing routed the rest to a plain retiring, proving a means to make their danger greater than before; untill Carlo himself with his Sword and Target forced them back, and getting before, led them on again, with such Fury on either part, as till then had not been seen since the first of this siege; and so overpowred by fresh men, wrought the English out again, who indeed could not mount the second Fort so soon, but with wondrous difficulty, the Waggons not able to march with our scaling Ladders, the Canon playing continually upon us in the windings and turnings of the causey, with great disadvantage to the English, and so narrow, that the Rere could not advance timely to our Succour.

Oxford in the head of all gave excellent testimony of his valour, and in mishaps, impossible to be releived he retteated as punctual and orderly as his onset, each Souldier observing his rank, not stepping one foot a side, as if duty and obedience, could oppose the Canon, which had advantage on us all with certain execution, to the loss of some hundreds on all sides. And this, though daringly done, as was possible for men, proved not successful, and the last Attempt on this wondrous Siege.

The Earl and his Uncle untouched, returned with much honour, and Oxford two daies after, in the heat of the day, took leave of the Army, riding hard upon a great Horse, to several Quarters, himself very corpulent, came home to the Hague, but with heat and cold got an Ague, and died there in a Fortnight after.

And the Winter before, dyed the Lord Wriothsey, Son to the Earl of Southampton, at Rosendale, and the Father at Bergen-opzome.

This was the ill success of the Last Attempt, whereof the Prince acquaints the Governour of Breda by a Spy, who proved false.

And that the Town should not delay too long to hazard all, by too much obstinacy; That if he received these letters, then to give a sign by shooting off three pieces of Canon; which he did at Midnight after, and by shewing as many lights upon their Tower as they had yet daies to feed upon provision, which was eleven. And this letter was brought by the Spy to Spinola, as many others had been before by this fellow; which were all copyed, and sent in for Answers, and evermore returned to Spinola, being deciphered by one Michael Rowter, Secretary to Spinola. [Page] Upon which a Trumpet is sent by the Enemy to the Governor, and the doubt of all deciphered, by which he was assured his secrets were made publick, and having honourable conditions, the Town was surrendred the second of Iune 1625.

The Infanta made her entrance into Breda at Haughe Port, upon which was fixed this Programma.

PhILIppVs HIspanIae ReX.

gVbernante IsabeLLa CLara eVgenIa

obsIDente SpInoLa.

HostIbVs frVstra In sVppetIas ConIVrantIbVs

BreDa

VICtor potItVr.

This which followes, alluding to the year, was placed in the Church.

AMbrosI SpInoLa

VIgILantIa

BreDa

eXpVgnata.

And Concluded with this Chronographicum.

ReX

BreDaM CepIt

qVInta

IVnII.

And seeing we are in discourse of War and Death;Marquess Hameltons sudden death. it will not be much different or disagreeing, to remember the decease, or violent death of the Marquess Hamilton, a gallant Noble Person, but a man intemperate, which hastened his sudden death, by his high feeding very late at Nights, and at all times most diseasonable. Which Physicians did forewarn, as impossible for his constitution, enclining to humours, long to continue; insomuch, as feasted late at the Lady Udalls, a place of too much good fellowship, he was coached home sleepy, and so put to bed.

And though he awaked yet slumbering without any account of himself after, and dyed before Noon the next day, not without Symptomes very unusual, unless of distempered Bodies.

But why impoisoned?Hist. Gr. Br. p. 285. because [Doctor Eglesham a Scotch-man was something bitter against the Duke, whose Neece had lately [Page]married the Marquesses Son, for the Marquess was averse to the Marriage.]

A very stout reason. Certainly had the Duke been but at Breda, all our English Lords had been impoisoned there too, and so might have saved that Authors labour to story their several diseases.

But I can tell him (as the Town talk then) that a new Frenchmode Cook with his Quelque choze and Mushrom Salads at that Supper, surfeited the Marquess to the death, and for the Ladies sake, the tumourous discourses were then cast upon any body else, which thus long after we see falls upon the Duke.

And although King Iames died some time after, yet Death followes him close at the heels in this mans account [and impoisoned also] Marry, his disease that brought his sickness, is far fetcht [Care for his Grand-children, danger of his own person, at home, or Ingagement of war abroad, or full feeding, or sweet Wines, or what other accident he knows not. K. James dies March 27. 1655.

But a Tertian Ague he had, which by several violent fits brought him into a Feaver, and so expired on Sunday Morning the twenty seventh day of March, the year of our Redemption 1625. at Theobalds.

Our Pamphlet having tumbled the King hitherto, blowes his death at par [...]ing, which he saies [began with a F [...]aver, but ended with a poisoned Playster applyed by Buckingham, for which being questioned the next Parliament, it was hastily dissolved for his sake, only to save his life.]

In the entrance of the Spring,His sickness and disease. the King was seized with a Tertian Ague; which to another constitution was not pestilential, but rather might prove Physical. But all men then knew his impatience in any pain, and alwaies utter enmity to any Physick; so that nothing was ministred to give him ease in his fits, which at length grew violent; and in those Maladies, every one is apt to offer advice, with such prescriptions as have been helpful unto others, and in truth, those as various as the disease is common.

In this time of the Kings rerire, the Duke got leave to visit his Estate at New-Hall in Essex, where the Earl of Warwick told him, that a neer Neighbour, Dr. Remington at Dunmow had cured many and him also, of a Quartane Ague, which had lasted a long time. The King being told this, commanded the Duke to send for the Medicine; which was a Plaister of Mithridate, made and spread upon Leather, and delivered from his hand to One Mr. Baker, a Servant of the Dukes then, and now living neer to the Earl; and so by that Messenger brought to the King and shewed to the Doctors, and lay ready prepared upon the Table untill proper time to be applyed to his stomach; Together [Page] with a Possit-drink of milk and Ale, Harrs horn, and Mary-gold Flowers, ingredients harmless and ordinary, which the Duke gave him to drink, and so took leave and went to London.

The King fallen into slumber about Noon, the Physicians took opportunity to retire, having watcht all night till that time. When in the interim of their absence, the King awakes, and falls from a change of his fit, unto timelyer effect, then usually it had happened before; which to allay, this Plaister was offered and put to his Stomach. But it wrought no Mittigation, and therefore was removed by the Doctors, who were much offended, that any one durst assume this boldness without their consent. But by after examination, all men then were assured of the composition, and a piece thereof eaten down by such as made it; and the Playster many moneths afterwards in being, for further tryal of any suspition of Poyson; which if not satisfactory now, it must and ought to lodge upon their scores, Sir Matthew Lister, Doctor Chambers, and other Physicians worthy men, who were herein examined, with very great satisfaction to cleer that calumny, and are yet living to evince each ones suspition.

Otherwise to blame was Montgomery, that precious Earl, of successive merit towards the Kings Posterity [whom (it is said) Co. & Ch. p. 174. the King trusted above all men, and imprecates him, for Gods sake look I have fair play, which he mistrusted] that this careless Earl should neglect his duty, falsify his trust, or connive with the composition of any poison, if it were so.

It was indeed remembred the following Parliament, and whereof the Duke was questioned, as a boldness unpardonable, but in the charge (which I remember Littleton mannaged at a Conference in the painted Chamber) it was not urged as poisonous, but only in him criminable. The Duke asked of me the effect of his Speech, and answered me, Well, In that as other things, my innocency is so cleer, that their malice does the more rivet me into good mens affections; and tru [...]y the Lords thought the Commons, more busie then needful, to spend time in the examining.

Oh! [But the Physicians muttered, and others made a great noise, Hist. Gr. Br. p. 287. and were forced to fly for it.] It is thus far true. There is a Doctor yet living, from that time discontent with the Court; and perhaps to colour his own demerit; would now insinuate to easie men, his too much resentment of the Kings death, which he is willing any one should suspect.

And to boot Egglesham ran away,Egglesham his scurrilous [...]phlet. writ a scurrilous Book at Bruxells, vain and false; as full of lyes as lines, which was reprinted in the times of freedom for such like Pasquils, purposely [Page] set out to renew the memory of the Dukes crimes,Anno 1624. and to taint others with infection; but as the surface thereof, at the first sight is frivolous, so be it examined to the full, it will be found malicious, and lastly laid aside as impossible.

I was told by Sir Balthaser Gerbier (though his testimony be odious to any man) that Egglesham dealt with him in Flanders, for a piece of money (not more then four hundred Guilders to defray the charges) to imprint his recantation; of which the Duke bid Gerbier join Knavery together, and spit their Venome till they split, and he would pay for printing that also.

But of these enough;Hist. [...]r. Br. p. 287. and yet what will our Monster of man pursue [It will be a hard task for any Man (saies he) to excuse the King his successor, See before of the Kings sickness and death. for dissolving that Parliament to preserve One that was accused for poisoning his Father] he means Buckingham, who was never accused of any such crime.

Trace this Authors Steps in your reading as we have done his writing, from his first taint towards King Iames [of suspition to imprison Prince Henry] and now concludes that his Son, his only Heir and Inheritou [...] of his Crown and Kingdoms, should connive (an equal guilt with the Principal) at the impoisoning of the Father; what can be more horrid infamy, for a Traytor to surmize to publish, nay to imprint in Odium of his two Sovereigns, for he lived their sworn Subject.

And now to conclude in Answer of their Characters, who cauterize K. Iames. As also of such another, Nuper Natus & Notus; Cumini cultor, who hews the King into chips, and then shreds them. We refer them to the Encomiums, Divine and Humane. The one by Mr. Bolton, a Reverend and Judicious Writer, which he had preached to his People. The other by Sir Francis Bacon, that learned and most accomplished Judge of all Knowledges, Divine, Natural and Humane, which he offered up a Pauegyrick to the King himself.

Boltons Religious Contemplation of King Iames.Anno 1625.

[Page]

ANd here (saies he) I cannot hold, Boltons Lectures, pa. 15, 16, &c. but must needs most justly complain, of the hateful intollerable unthankfulness of Us in this Kingdom, the happyest people, under the Cope of Heaven, had we hearts aright to conceive of Gods extraordinary love, and such miraculous Mercies, as never Nation enjoyed! walk over the World, peruse the whole face of the Earth, from East to West, from North to South, from one side of Heaven to another, you shall not find such another nlightened Goshen, as this Island, where besides doth the Gospel shine with such Glory, Truth and Peace▪ &c.

We have lived in a time of Miracles; Our posterity will hardly believe the wonders done in Our daies, &c. Was it not a miraculous mercy to have such a King? &c. who hath already, next under that Almighty God, by whom Kings reign, continued the Gospel unto us, and preserved us from the destroying Sword, all his blessed Reign over us? and what do you think were so many years Peace worth, were it to be bought? with the Enjoyment of the Gospel to boot; He hath enobled this Kingdome for ever, by his excellent Writings in the cause of Religion against Antichrist; which would have created a great deal of Honour to a private Man, minding nothing else. How illustrious then do they make Our King? The child unborn will blesse King James, For his Premonition to all Princes and free States of Christendome, and that Royal Remonstrance against the rotten and pestilent Otation of the French Cardinal, to the utter and Triumphant overthrow of it, penned in that Stile that none can possibly reach, but a learned King? his Golden Pen hath [Page] given such a blow to that Beast of Rome, that he will never be able to stand upon his four Legs again. He hath shot out of his Royal Bow, such keen Arrowes taken out of the Qu [...] ver of Gods Book, which will hang in the sides of that Scarlet Whore, and make her lame as long as she lives. Hath he not most happily and seasonably stopt the hasty torrent of the Arminian Sect, and the domineering Rage of bloody Duels? &c. And was not the discovery and delivery from the Powder plot, that great Astonihment of Men and Angels, one of the most unparallell'd and merciful Miracles, that ever the Church of God tasted, &c. And to crown all with wonder of greatest Astonishment, do not we all (that are of the Kings faithfullest Subjects) almost fear still left we be in a dream, That King Charles the flower of Christendom, &c. And concludes, Away then with all sowr, melancholick, causeless, sinful discontent. And praise ye the Lord, sing unto the Lord a New song, and his praise in the Congregation of the Saints: Let Israel rejoice in him that made him. Let the children of Zion be joyful in their King, for the Lord taketh pleasure in his People: he will beautifie the meek with salvation. Let the Saints be joyful in Glory. Let them sing aloud upon their Beds, &c.

Sir Francis Bacon in honour of K. Iames.

WHerefore representing your Majesty many times unto my mind,Advancement of Learning, page 2. and beholding you not with the eye of presumption to discover that which the Scripture tells me is inscrutable; but with the observant eye of duty and admiration, leaving aside the other parts of your virtue and fortune; I have been touched, yea and possessed with an extreame wonder at these your virtues and faculties which the Philosophers call Intellectuals. The largeness of your Capacity, the faithfulness of your Memory, the swiftness of your apprehension, the penetration of your Iudgement, [Page]and the facility and order of your Elocution. And I have then thought that of all the persons living, that I have known, your Majesty were the best instance to make a man of Plato's Opinion, That all knowledge is but Remembrance, and that the Mind of man by Nature knoweth all things, and hath but her own Native and Original Notions (which by the strangeness and darkness of the Tabernacle of the Body, are sequestred) again revived and restored; such a Light of Nature I have observed in your Majesty, and such a readiness to take flame, and blaze from the least occasion presented; or the least Spark of anothers knowledge delivered. And as the Scripture saith of the Wisest King, That his heart was as the Sand of the Sea, which though it be one of thr largest Bodies, yet it consisteth of the smallest and finest portions. So hath God given your Majesty a composition of understanding admirable, being able to compass and comprehend the greatest Matters, and nevertheless to touch and apprehend the least; wherein it should seem an impossibility in Nature, for the same Instrument to make it self fit, for great and small Works. And for your gift of Speech, I call to mind what Cornelius Tacitus saith of Augustus Caelar, Augusto profluens u [...] quae principem deceret eloquentia fuit. For if we mark it well, Speech that is uttered with labour and difficulty; or Speech that [...]avoureth of the affectation of Art and Precepts: Or Speech that is framed after the imitation of some pattern of Eloquence, though never so excellent. All this hath somewhat Servile and holding of the Subject. But your Majesties manner of Speech is indeed Princelike, flowing as from a Fountain, and yet streaming and branching it self into Natures Order, full of facility and felicity, Imitating none, and imitable by any. And as in your Civil Estate, there appeareth [Page] to be an emulation and contention of your Majesties Virtues with your Fortunes; a virtuous Disposition with a Fortunate Regiment: a virtuous expectation (when time was) of your greater fortune▪ with a prosperous possession thereof in the due time▪ a virtuous observation of the Laws of Marriage, with most blessed and happy fruit of Mariage, a virtuous and most Christian desire of Peace, with a fortunate inclination in your Neighbour Princes thereunto. So likewise in those Intellectual Matters, there seemeth to be no less contention, between the excellency of your Majesties gifts of nature, and the Universality and perfection of your Learning. For I am well assured of this that what I shall say, is no Amplification at all, but a positive and measured Truth, which is, That there hath not been since Christs time, any King or Temporal Monarch, which hath been so learned in all Literature and Erudition, Divine and Humane. For let a Man seriously and diligently revolve and peruse the succession of the Emperours of Rome, of which Caesar the Dictato [...], who lived some years before Christ, and Marcus An [...]onius, were the best learned. And so descend to the Emperours of Graecia, or of the West, and then to the lines of France, Spain, England, Scotland, and the Rest, and he shall find this Judgement truly made. For it seemeth much in a King, if by the compendious extractions of other Mens Wits and Learning, he can take hold of any superficial Ornaments and shews of Learning: Or if he countenance and prefer Learning, and Learned Men. But to drink indeed of the true Fountain of Learning, nay to have such a Fountain of Learning in himself, in a King, and in a King born, is almost a Miracle. And the more, because there is met in your Majesty a rare conjunction, as well of Divine and Sacred Literature, as of Prophane and Humane. [Page] So as your Majesty stands invested of that Triplicity, which in great Veneration was ascribed to the antient Hermes, The power and fortune of a King, the knowledge and illumi [...]ation of a Priest, and the Learning and Universality of a Philosopher. This propriety inherent and individual Attribute in your Majesty, deserveth to be expressed not only in the fame and admiration of the present time, nor in the History or Tradition of the Ages succeeding, but also in some solid work, fixed memorial and immortal Monument, bearing a Character or Signature, both of the power of a King and the difference and persection of such a King. So he.

Memoria Iusti cum laudibus,

Et Impiorum Nomen putrescit.

An EPITAPH ON King Iames the sixth.

[Page]

THose that have Eyes awake and weep,

For He, whose waking wrought Our sleep

Is fallen asleep; and never

Shall awake, till wak'd for Ever.

Death's Iron hand hath clos'd those Eyes

Which were at once Three Kingdomes Spyes,

Both to foresee, and to prevent

Dangers so soon as they were meant.

That Head, (whose working Brain, alone

Wrought all mens quiet, But His own)

Now lies at Rest. Oh let Him have

The Peace (He purchasd) in His Grave.

If that no Naboth, all His Reign,

Was for his fruitful Vineyard, slain?

If no Uriah lost his Life,

For having had so fair a Wife?

Then let no Shemei's curses wound

His Honour, or profane His Ground;

Let no Black-Mouth, no Rank-breath Cur,

Peaceful James His Ashes stir.

Kings are as Gods; O! do not then

Rake in Their Graves, to prove Them Men.

For His daies toyl, and Night watches;

For His craz'd sleep, stol'n by Snatches;

For Two fair Kingdomes, join'd in One;

For all He did, or meant t' have done;

Do this for Him; write on His Dust;

King IAMES the Peaceful and the Just.

Sit Gloria DEO.

FINIS.

The Conclusion.

[Page]

[Page]

HItherto, having pursued the Descent, following the Union of the two Roses by Marriage of Henry 7. of England; and the re-union of both Kingdoms Sovereignty, by succesfull inheritance of King James, and then left to a son and Heir, and also to the numerous issue of a Daughter and her Descendents; and suddenly into the present possession of King Charls of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, the first; who though affianced forthwith in Marriage with the Princess Maria Sister to the French King Louis the 13. Blessed also afterward with a numerous Issue, Sons and Daughters, as a full Period (in shew) of all former Mutation and change, through them and their posterity, perpetual.

So indeed it appeared to a State-observer, but not seemed good to the Eye of Providence, whose powerfull Hand hath ordered it otherwise; for He is taken away in the strength of his years and perfections, and none of his (in possibility of Reason) to succeed to any part or portion of his Inheritance.

But, to proceed in the continuation of this History to these Times, and to branch into such particulars, as to draw down to discover Truth to after-Ages, may seem to some very difficult; the common Excuse of such as cannot or will not undertake it; and therefore pre [...]end, that by following the heels of Truth too near, a man may endanger his Teeth. A defect of Reason so to conceive; when an even and unbiassed Narrative of Men and Matters may well become the judicious Historian.

For first, that King Charls was lawfully possessed and crowned Monarch of his Fathers Inheritance; his Peers and People obediently submitting to his Scepter.

That He being necessarily imbroiled into some forrein Ingagements against Spain and France, was enforced to summon the assistance of several succeeding Parliaments unsuccesfull; and by too hasty Regulation of Ecclesiastick Discipline upon the Scots Kirk, moved them to an unnatural Insurrection, which caused Expeditions against their Armies already descended into the heart of England; which enforced him to assemble another long-lasting Parliament, wherein he lost himself and his Life also.

What were the true and different Reasons, Grounds and Man [...]agements of the late Differences between Him and Them, the Pro [...]ocations on either side to the first entrance into the miserable War?

[Page]Their several Battels, Sieges, Policies and different Successes of that so long uncivil-civil Dissension.

His n [...]ssities enforcing Him to leave his own Party and to resign up himself unto his natural Countreymen unfaithfull Scots.

Their Sale of his Person back again to his English subjects.

Their several Passages, Declarations, Narratives, Treaties, Overtures and Disputes between Them, both before and during his Restraint in order to a firm and lasting Agreement with his Parliament and People for Reconciling Important Affairs of Church and State, with the Presby [...]erian future destruction of the Hierar [...]hy of Ecclesia [...]tick Discipline.

Their Policies thereupon to be rid of the Bishops, Deans and Chapters.

The Dismission of the Lords House in Parliament and Impeachment and Execution of Ecclesiastick and Lay persons, Bishops and Beers.

And after all, they brought his Head to the Block a sacrifice for the sins of the whole Nations.

The different Dis [...]ositions in their eleven years long domination of a pretended Triennial Parliament necessitates another Power to purge them with several Doses, and afterwards to put them down.

Sundry Expedients to prove them by a fresh Assembly, Representatiues of the People.

Their time and debates wasted to no good purpose, they are broken up, and in fine dissipated.

And then the last little Assembly rise of themselves, leaving all in Anarchy and desperate confusion.

Untill it pleased the Almighty to raise a Power which resumed the Peoples protection in monstrous danger of utter destruction.

The necessity of the national Affairs introducing, were put under the power of single Sovereignty.

How that power hath managed the Government against divers desperate Designs Forrein and Domestick.

The prosperous effects and issue now settled into an assurance of the Nations future subsistance. And all these in reference to our neighbour States; War with some, Amity with others.

All these particulars, faithfully put together, without captious and pres [...]mptuous opinions of partial observers, not to descant private conceits upon the necessity of State. But barely to represent the Narrative, and to leave the [...] the Readers sentence.

And this way (God willing) is thus intended, and in part pursued, the matter and manner of this monarchical succession and final conclusion to be faithfully performed unto these Times our last Days.

By W. SANDERSON.

Nec magna desiderantur.

[Page]

Information about this book

Title statement

A compleat history of the lives and reigns of, Mary Queen of Scotland, and of her son and successor, James the Sixth, King of Scotland, and (after Queen Elizabeth) King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, the First ... reconciling several opinions in testimony of her, and confuting others, in vindication of him, against two scandalous authors, 1. The court and character of King James, 2. The history of Great Britain ... / by William Sanderson, Esq.

Sanderson, William, Sir, 1586?-1676.

Edition statement

1656

Publication

Publisher

Text Creation Partnership,

Place of publication

Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) :

Date

2003-03 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1).

ID [DLPS]

A62145

ID [STC]

Wing S647

ID [STC]

ESTC R5456

ID [EEBO-CITATION]

12378593

ID [OCLC]

ocm 12378593

ID [VID]

60657

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(EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A62145)

Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 60657)

Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 226:9)

Source

— A compleat history of the lives and reigns of, Mary Queen of Scotland, and of her son and successor, James the Sixth, King of Scotland, and (after Queen Elizabeth) King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, the First ... reconciling several opinions in testimony of her, and confuting others, in vindication of him, against two scandalous authors, 1. The court and character of King James, 2. The history of Great Britain ... / by William Sanderson, Esq., Sanderson, William, Sir, 1586?-1676..

Extent

[33], 262 p., [4], 265-599, [3] p. : ill., port.

Printed for Humphrey Moseley, Richard Tomlins, and George Sawbridge ...,. London :: 1656.. (The two works mentioned in the title are by Anthony Weldon, and Arthur Wilson, respectively.) (The second part has special t.p.: The reign and death of King James. London : Printed by H. Hills, 1655.) (Reproduction of original in Yale University Library.)

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The EEBO-TCP project was divided into two phases. The 25,363 texts created during Phase 1 of the project have been released into the public domain as of 1 January 2015. Anyone can now take and use these texts for their own purposes, but we respectfully request that due credit and attribution is given to their original source.

Users should be aware of the process of creating the TCP texts, and therefore of any assumptions that can be made about the data.

Text selection was based on the New Cambridge Bibliography of English Literature (NCBEL). If an author (or for an anonymous work, the title) appears in NCBEL, then their works are eligible for inclusion. Selection was intended to range over a wide variety of subject areas, to reflect the true nature of the print record of the period. In general, first editions of a works in English were prioritized, although there are a number of works in other languages, notably Latin and Welsh, included and sometimes a second or later edition of a work was chosen if there was a compelling reason to do so.

Image sets were sent to external keying companies for transcription and basic encoding. Quality assurance was then carried out by editorial teams in Oxford and Michigan. 5% (or 5 pages, whichever is the greater) of each text was proofread for accuracy and those which did not meet QA standards were returned to the keyers to be redone. After proofreading, the encoding was enhanced and/or corrected and characters marked as illegible were corrected where possible up to a limit of 100 instances per text. Any remaining illegibles were encoded as <gap>s. Understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of TCP data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. Users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a TCP editor.

The texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the TEI in Libraries guidelines.

Copies of the texts have been issued variously as SGML (TCP schema; ASCII text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable XML (TCP schema; characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless XML (TEI P5, characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or TEI g elements).

Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site.