The Popish Kingdom, or reign of Antichrist, written in Latin verse by Thomas Naogeorgus, and englished by Barnaby Googe.  2. TIMOTH. 3. Like as jannes' and Jambres withstood Moses, even so do these also resist the truth. Men they are of corrupt minds, and lewd as concerning the faith: but they shall prevail no longer. For their foolishness shall be manifest to all men, as theirs was. 
¶ Imprinted at London by Henry Denham, for Richard Watkins. Anno. 1570.   

To the right high, and mighty princess, Elizabeth by the grace of God, Queen of England, France, and Ireland, defender of the faith, and of the Church of England and Ireland, on earth next under God the supreme governor.  
I WOULD NOT HAVE TAken upon me (most gracious and my redoubted sovereign Lady) to have brought into english this brief description of your grace's greatest adversary, though often I have thereunto been earnestly required, but only of purpose to dedicated it to your majesty: Neither yet would I so have presumed to have done, but that I have here before seen your graces most gracious accepting of smaller matters. The Author so eloquently in Latin hath expressed his mind, and so plainly and truly hath described the feigned sanctity of the romish religion that now so much is boasted of, as I cannot but judge him a present meet for a Queen. The translation (though rude) so dealeth with truth, as being earnestly hated of the enemies of truth, it requireth of necessity the patronage of so noble a princess, being before in Latin safely defended by the no less virtuous, than valiant prince the Landgrave of Hess, a Prince as well affected in religion, as of mind and courage invincible. Most humbly I therefore beseech your majesty to vouchsafe the defence thereof against the wrongful slanders of malicious tongues, and to pardon, according to your accustomed clemency, my bold attempt in presenting to your highness so rude a translation: wherein I have the less been curious, because it was chiefly made for the benefit of the common, and simpler sort. I have also hereunto joined some part of another book written by the same Author, and entitled, The spiritual husbandry (which I long before translated) because the other being printed, seemed something to small in volume. God long preserve your most excellent majesty, and always in all dangers as he hath hitherto most wonderfully done: so evermore thorough his mighty and merciful providence defend the same to his honour and glory, and the singular comfort of all your loving subjects.  
Your majesties most humble and faithful subject. Barnaby Googe.   


B G  
POST. TRISTIA. LAETA▪    

¶ To the right high and mighty Prince, Philip by the grace of God Landgrave of Hesse. etc. Thomas Naogeorgus his humble subject wisheth. etc.  
THE BEAUTIFUL LIGHT of the Gospel (most worthy Prince) hath now so many years shined, that not unworthily, if it so had seemed good to God, it might have drawn all men to the love and estimation thereof, & assuaged the malice of the chiefest enemies, in such sort, as though they could not found in their hearts to embrace it, yet at the leastwise they should forbear from their uncharitable slanders and cruel railings. But because they only do believe (as we read in the Acts of the Apostles) that are before appointed to salvation: So far of are our adversaries from waxing more gentle, or any whit forsaking their cruelty and reproachful words, as now at length they pour out more boldly and despitefully the vilest words they can, not only against the poor Preachers, but also against their doctrine, and the very Gospel itself. For of late came there one abroad, (whose name I will not here declare) who taking occasion of these last wars, with a foolish and slanderous book, cuts in pieces, tears, chides, and with as ill reports as may be, burdeneth as well the Princes, as subjects, that be favourers of the Gospel, and herewithal (full wisely) calls us again to Popery, terming us Apostatas, and forsakers of our faith. But surely he deserveth no answer, as one that except railings hath uttered nothing: and his Book that he written, seems to be written by a man overseen with wine, having no Method therein, but a certain disordered heap of words, and (as they say) a tale without a head. Yet would I there should be some that should answer this slanderer, not for his sake, but for the worthiness of the religion that we profess: whereby he might perceive with what rashness, ungodliness, and malapartness he controls and persecutes the thing he doth not understand. For although we are bound by the word of God, to bear and dissemble the injuries and offences that are done unto us: yet such things as belong unto truth, the pure doctrine of the Gospel, and so to the honour and glory of God, we aught by no means to dissemble, but earnestly both with words and writings to fight against the enemies, as with great commendation did the ancient Doctors of the Church, against the Heathen, and first planters of Heresies: for these slanderers, although of such as sufficiently know the truth, they be but laughed at and despised, yet do they infect, and not a little abuse the weak, and 'cause them to mistrust and think the worse of the religion we teach. Therefore either for the Doctrine itself, or else for the weakelinges that have but newly begun to taste the truth, the wickedness and malice of this defamer, in calling the gospel that we preach Turkish, and by other hateful terms, is to be beaten down and utterly confuted. And here I can not but wonder with what face he can thus shamelessly behave himself, since it is well known he never read any book of ours, whereby he might rightly judge of our faith and religion, neither is it reason for the fault and offence of some one Prince or subject to give judgement upon all. But I think he learned these slanders, at the Sermons of some bawling Friars, or other venomous Papists, who have more care for their bellies, than for the truth, whereby he thought to be accounted a great Clerk, for thundering out his railing Rhetoric against us, and thinks it no little glory, if with his fond and ruffianly booke●, he may not overthrow (for so great his learning is not: and if it were▪ the truth is invincible) but like a fly or a gnat, sting and bite us, whom it pleaseth him to call Lutherans. But I trust there shall some man be found that shall answer the fool, as Solomon saith, according to his folly, lest he should seem wise to himself. I for my part, as well as leisure would presently serve, have plainly and truly set forth the chief members of the Popish state, their faith, their ceremonies, and religion, though I pass over names: that every man may see, whether they or we come nearer to the steps of the Apostles, and whether they be Catholics, or rather we whom they so hate and persecute as Heretics. What goodness, what true dealing, or what thing agreeing with the apostolic doctrine there is among these Papists, I truly can not see. On the other side it plain appeareth, that our religion is such, as the Papists with all their endeavour, by faithful witness of Scriptures, yet hitherto could never be able to overthrow. Wither than do they call us? Do they think that we will forsake the truth, and follow falsehood in so clear a light? Why do they call us Apostatas? Is it a shame to forsake ungodliness and Idolatry, and other things both vain and foolish? That this religion of theirs is none other, I intend so briefly to show, that it may appear as in a Table, whereby our men may pacientlier bear the injuries and reproaches of these fellows, in seeing from what monsters by the doctrine of the Gospel they are delivered, and our adversaries not bear their heads so lofty, and boast themselves to be the true Church of Christ, beholding the abuses aswell of their life, as of their religion, disclosed & declared unto all men. I therefore exhort our brethren, that they esteem as their greatest glory, the departing from the Pope, and as a singular blessing of GOD, the knowledge of the Gospel. I exhort also and admonish our adversaries, that they leave of in time from slandering, not only us (who in respect are nothing) but rather the truth of God, and the Gospel of Christ, and that they weigh the matter with more diligence, and remove a while from their eyes the consent of numbers of people, the authority of the Pope and his members, and the accustomed religion of a few hundred years: for these and such other like are of no force in the confirming of truth, but are rather lets and hinderances to the knowledge thereof, and common to the inhabitants of the whole world, who by antiquity, continuance, authority of Kings and Princes, and the general consent of people, are able to defend their superstitious laws. But other grounds of faith and religion aught Christians to have, as the consent of the Prophets, and the Apostles, the authority of the holy Ghost, bearing witness of our Lord jesus Christ, as well in scriptures, as in the hearts of men. These if they thorowlye consider, and without partiality regard, I doubt not but it shall come to pass, that clothing themselves with Christian shamefastness, they shall amend and return unto more sounder and surer doctrine. A great foolishness it is to know what is best, and to follow the worst, as many of our adversaries for gain, and their bellies sake do. In the mean time, most excellent Prince, great cause we have to rejoice of ourselves, beholding in how great darkness, errors, deceits, and vanities, our enemies walk: and to beseech God, that it may please him, to open their eyes and their minds, that they may behold the light of the Gospel, by which the quietness of heart is only obtained, and that they may seek for and enjoy all things in Christ our alonely saviour. How great a grief it is to such as travail to be ignorant of their way, or taught amiss by some malicious guide, they well can tell that have had experience thereof. Neither doth it any whit avail to prove many ways, and yet to be far of from the right. Which commonly happeneth, as is well known, to our enemies. For many ways they attempt, and try, and carefully wrist their mind hither and thither, to obtain the forgiveness of their sins, and everlasting life. But every man that is Godly doth see, that they strive and travail in vain, when the only way unto God is Christ, 
john. 14.  who is made unto us of God the father, wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, 
1. Corin. 1.  and redemption, and there is no other name in the world given unto men whereby they may be saved, 
Acts. 4.  but only the name of our Lord jesus Christ. This way because it is plain, and not gainful, the blind and wicked guides do either craftily shun, and lead men into thickets, or wildernesses, whence they never can get out, or carry the poor creatures to craggy rocks, and break neck mountains. Besides we aught to accounted it no small benefit of God, that we are delivered from these fellows, and that we understand their devices and deceits, whereby we may continually beware of them. For this only intent, have I taken this work in hand, that the truth and the brightness of the Gospel may the better shine out, by setting forth the contrary devices, worspipping, ceremonies, and life of the Papists, that every man may take heed of these, and more earnestly receive, embrace, and with all their endeavour keep and defend the other. And to you (most worthy prince) have I dedicated this work for many respects, all which to rehearse were needless. Your singular and gracious favour towards me, and liberality well beseeming a prince deserveth some greater matter, and more meet for your highness▪ But I know your grace is always wont more to esteem the mind of the giver, than the gift: neither did I mind to give your grace this, as a recompense for your goodness towards me, (for that am I never able to do) but only to declare myself, not unmindful of your benefits. Moreover, I thought it good to give this book unto you as meetest before all other Princes, for your great and singular travail in setting forth of the Gospel, for the dangers and miseries that you have sustained in defending of it, wherein even to captivity, and the great hazard of your life (from the which I thank God, and with all my heart rejoice, that you are at the length delivered, and restored to the seat of your Progenitors) most valiantly ye have striven: and also for the wonderful and Princely courage of your heart, in so many, so great and grievous temptations, and constancy in keeping it. You shall here behold what things they be (although you were not before ignorant of them) unto the which, though by sundry devices assaulted, you could by no means be brought. And on the other side apparently, what manner of religion it is that you furthered, hitherto defended, and by the mighty help of God retained. Certain there be that are severe and unmovable in keeping their faith heretofore delivered them, as the Turks, the jews, and such others, but settled upon no certain ground, nor authorized by the witness of any holy scriptures, but only by the inventions and dreams of men. But such constancy (or if I may so say) obstinacy, is to be commended, that hath her foundation upon God's word: and can by no means be drawn or forced to error and ungodliness, for the which the witnesses of Christ have always been worthily praised. Therefore because I thought this little work would not be altogether unpleasant unto you, I presumed to dedicated it unto your highness, most humbly beseeching you to bear with the simpleness thereof, and to accept herein my well meaning mind, and to receive me into your grace's protection, whose long prosperity, with the happy success of your most noble and renowned children, I earnestly desire God to preserve.  
From Basill the .20. of February. 1553.   

The Popish Kingdom. The first Book.  
THe strange disguised shape, and faith, of popish proud estate,  
The sundry orders, and the days they yearly consecrated  
Good Muse declare, my force to weak, can not thereto attain:  
Ne can disclose the mysteries, of such a mateless reign.  
Often have we heard the thundering fame, of Scythian sceptre great,  
The Turks estate, and of the Indians farther distant seat:  
The warlike Parthians power beside, and stately Persian charge,  
And of the Romans all men knows, the ancient empire large.  
But these are nothing in respect, if any man do way,  
The far surmounting majesty, and power of popish sway:  
Whose Lordship lifteth up itself, unto the heavens high, 
D. 22. omnes.   
And all the earth, whereon we devil, to him doth subject lie.  
And all the devils deep in hell, at his decrees do quake,  
So that the threefold engine of the world he makes to shake.  
Nor unadvisedly we speak, nor rashly thereof fain,  
The Pope himself doth challenge this, in words and writings plain.  
And lustily he doth defend, the same with tooth and nail.  
Draw near therefore Calliopey, and let thy force prevail.  
And thou Apollo grant thine aid, great matters here I sing,  
Whereof the fame, blown forth abroad, all Europe makes to ring.  
Guide you my lately verse begun, by perfit path and plain,  
Disclose the secret mysteries, of this so sacred reign.  
For though it thoroughly be known, and easily appears,  
To every Wight, that here hath seen, the end of thirty years.  
The younger age yet knows it not, ne children have it seen,  
That have been taught, to tread the steps, of Christ's religion clean.  
And what of our posterity, that many years to come,  
Shall not attain to know the faith, nor toys of stately Rome.  
Being many a hundred miles from thence, and dwelling far away,  
This book shall well instruct them than, and show them half the play.  
If worms do not consume it first, nor Merchants occupy  
It, for enclosing of their wares, that they far hence do buy:  
Our question first, is, if from heaven this lusty blood do spring,  
And whether thence he slipped down, from that almighty King:  
Or rather from the Stygian floods he raised himself so high,  
Created first by Satan, and the spirits that damned lie,  
To be a plague to Christian faith, and virtuous family,  
To fill the world with troubles, broils, and wretched misery?  
Such as are bend to search the same, bring many causes strong:  
And weighty arguments, and proves, the chiefest here among.  
They from the fruits do first derive, and long they feed their eyes,  
To view the monstrous shape, that doth from doubtful parent rise.  
It is not much amiss, if that we say, he came from high:  
For Lucifer the Prince of pride, and all his company,  
That now do trouble all the world, from heaven down did fall,  
At his commandment, and his word, that guides and governs all.  
From heaven eke fell out the blood, that all the world did drown:  
Besides on Sodom, came from thence, both fire and brimstone down.  
What if the monstrous sins of men, wherewith the world did swarm,  
Provoked God to send this plague, for their deserved harm.  
Men made but small account of Christ, God's word esteemed vain,  
Each heart was then perversely bend, and truth had in disdain.  
Faith was not to be found at all, ne love could once be seen,  
And hellish sects, had put to flight, the true religion clean.  
Each ear was then set open wide, to learn devices mad,  
And joyed to hear of teachers new, though they were near so bad.  
No difference made, of right or wrong, none sought the perfit way.  
But every man with willing mind, did yield himself a prey.  
What marvel was it now, if that the almighty gave them up,  
And suffered them to drink their fill, of lying errors cup?  
Besides, when all was hushed and still, the chief, and learned sort,  
Gave over book, and Pulpit quite, and gave themselves to sport.  
Still wondering at the worldly pomp, and hunting after gain.  
Each one did seek the other's fall, with hatred and disdain,  
The stronger put the weak to worse, with aid of Princely might,  
Thus malice touched the high estates, who wondered at the spite,  
And muzde what madness moved them thus, the priests & prelates great,  
Should thus with civil wars, envy each one the others seat.  
Of these disorders, lewd, and great, what judge you should appear,  
But stops to sound religion and this present kingdom here?  
While God th'offences punished, of this distempered mind,  
And overwhelmed the idle hearts, with mists and darkness blind▪  
For both about one time began, the fond religion vain,  
Of Mahomet his foolish law, and eke the popish reign.  
Two stubborn horns to overthrow, both faith and virtuous mind,  
And for to drown the doubtful world, with vice, and errors blind.  
For one thing, both of them we see, do strive for to attain,  
Which is, that no remembrance might, of jesus Christ remain.  
And that the searching out of truth, from men be pluck away,  
That so in errors thick and gross, they all may sooner stray.  
Ne shalt thou much amiss affirm, if that thou dost declare,  
That God hath placed them in the world, as horns that equal are.  
For this the Pope himself presumes, and plainly doth decree,  
And as a Key of faith doth will, that it believed be. 
D. 21. In novo. D. 22. omnes &, Sacro sancta.   
But for the same we will not strive, but easily give him place,  
Yet neither can the Pope nor such, as him do here embrace,  
Deny but many things he hath, at Satan's hands been taught,  
Which both in life and doctrine here, he often hath lewdly wrought.  
But of this wondrous Empire great, the head I now declare,  
Surnamed Pope, 
Pope.  a name that once to those that meanest wear  
Among the Bishop's common was, till such time as alone,  
The Romish Bishop chalengde it, resisted then of none.  
What could they do? now was he great, and to be feared of all,  
Not only through his earthly force, but power celestial.  
This Pope doth boast himself to have, the keys of heaven gates,  
And brave in scutcheon blazeth them, that Kings and high estates,  
And common people bend to lies, may know that none can climb  
To heaven, to be placed there, without his power divine.  
Without his warrant, or his grant, for in his gift doth lie,  
The skies, and happy life, and whom he list he putteth by.  
And with a word, he hoisteth up, unto the starry reign,  
Even whom he lists, and where him likes, he casteth down again,  
Unto the bottom deep of hell, he binds, and loseth all,  
Even as a perfect Marshal of, the chief and highest hall.  
To great an Empire sure is this, and dreadful power to hear,  
Whereat great Dukes have trembled, and Princes quakte for fear.  
Both noble men, and people poor, their countenance now let fall,  
When as they heard the name of Pope, and such a power withal.  
For every man accounted sure, that after loss of life,  
They should receive eternal bliss, and heaven, void of strife.  
But how poor wretches, may they now the heavens hope to win,  
When as the Pope doth keep the keys, and wards the coming in?  
Therefore of all men must he needs, as God be worshipped,  
Yea, no man sought to have the aid of God himself in deed.  
Nor minded his commandments, his threats, nor promises,  
For why, the terror of this Pope, each mind did now distress,  
That God could have no part thereof, who yet regards not part,  
But challengeth, as due to him, the whole of every heart.  
We know full well, that Peter, and all such of Peter's mind,  
receive these heavenly keys of Christ, and power to loose and bind.  
But in the gospel lies this power, and farther doth not reach,  
He shuts, and closeth fast the doors, that doth this gospel preach,  
To such as will not him believe, men beastly, void of shame,  
And eke to virtuous men and good, he openeth wide the same.  
Thus doth he bind the stubborn sort, and men of froward kind,  
With gospels force, and not by power, of his presumptuous mind.  
far otherwise the Pope doth work, as well we may behold,  
He preacheth not as Peter did, nor feeds the Christian fold,  
Ne doth he travel in the word, with any learning pure,  

Con. D. 95. Esto.  But counts himself the guide of faith, and life that shall endure.  
Which power no God, nor man him gave, yet so it hath been weighed,  
That emperors, Kings, and Dukes and all, have him as God obeyed.  
So much hath lewd persuasion done, from wrested scriptures brought  
That for the entering heaven gates, and joys of all men sought:  

D. 10. Quoniam.  As subject here the faith he kept, and heart of all men held,  
Except the Greeks, that never would, such honour to him yield.  
For all the Italians, Spaniards, and the French, their neighbours nigh,  
The Scots, the English people, and the men of Germany,  
Th'ungarians, Danes, and Norweyes both, Bohemians eke beside  
And Ireland, Russia, and Poland, with woods and pastures wide,  
In fine, wheresoever the Latin name, hath erst been blown & spread.  
Do honour, fear, and worship eke, the Pope as chief and head:  
And giver of eternal life, thus far he rules the skies,  
And more he seeks: 
Greg. in Re.  but on the earth he still doth exercise  
All things that long to God, or man, appointed by the highest,  
To be a factor here for God, and Vicar unto Christ, 
D. 12. Non decet, & praecipius. 9 q. 3. aliorum contra. 1. q. 1. ut evidenter.   
Who evermore is present here, in power, and sacred breath,  
The head of that same spouse, that he redeemed with his death,  
And washed with his precious blood, from spots and wrinkles clean.  
And is not this adultery now, and madness plainly seen,  
To boast himself to be the head, and guide an other's wife?  
Who can abide this? Christ, that bought her here, with loss of life?  
Yet saith he, Christ did leave him here her head, who paid this price, 
D. 22. omne● &, Sacro sancta.   
Thus shames he not to blind the world, with falsehood and with vice.  
Moreover lest that some should spring, that might his power deface,  
And both by scripture, word and wit, deprive him of his grace,  
He warily lays the Bible up, 
17. q. 4. nemini. 24. q. ● quoties, & Rogamus.  and wills that none do take  
It, otherwise than he himself, doth in his comment make.  
And with decrees he doth forbidden, that none so hardy be,  
As moved by love of troth, or hate of falsehood, for to see  
The sacred leaves, or to expound them, but as he doth teach,  
Nor privately, nor openly, unto the people preach,  
(Than he himself allows, nor none) may on the same depend,  
But such as thereby build his reign, and do his power commend.  
And thus against the scriptures force, he easily builds his fort,  
Which scriptures should be most of weight, amongst the christian sort.  
What help is now in arguments? what good can reason do?  
Or whereto serves the sharp devise, that sheds and parts in two  
The troth from falsehood? all are blind, the Pope doth only see, 
9 q. 3. patet & cuncta, & nemo. D. 12. Si Romanorum.   
And learning's laws, and reasons good alonely judgeth he.  
With Princes, people, Doctors, and the solemn counsels high,  
And whatsoever he decrees, must unremoved lie,  
And be received as a law, whereof may no man doubt,  
But blyndefielde every man must ●ake, whatsoever he sets out. 
17. q. 4. nemini D. 19 Sic omnes.   
And with an ill unsavoury taste, must down the throat be sent,  
What he propoundes, decrees, or dreams, or what he doth invent.  
And well he looks to this, that none of him may judgement give, 
D. 40. Si p●pa 9 q. 3 nemo &, Sequent.   
Nor of his life nor wicked deeds, how ill so ever he live.  
Yea, though through his example● lewd, he bringeth down to hell,  
Great troops of men that viciously, upon the earth do devil.  
He may do what him list and likes, and liveth here below,  
As one that neither feareth man, nor any God doth know.  
His will for reason only stands, and for a law must go,  

Extra de concess. pro. proposuit. Extra de apellari. ut debitus. 3. q. 6. Hoc quip. C. de rei vend. li. 5.2. q. 6. Decreto  Nor no man dare demand of him, why dost thou so, or so:  
For why he can dispense withal, and change with every man,  
Of right make wrong, and eke of wrong, make right again he can.  
What lawful is, unjust he makes, unjustice eke is right,  
And when it likes his holiness, the Crow is also white.  
The order here of nature good, he turns another way,  
And altars quite, what needs more words, on earth he bears the sway.  
He breaketh with his word the bond, of faithful married mates,  
And couples eke in marriage bed, the plain forbidden states.  
God's holy laws he altars quite, or taketh clean from hence,  
Or wretchedly he wresteth them, unto some other sense.  
No marvel then if that he deal with man's decrees so ill,  
Discharging subjects from their oath, and placing whom he william.  
Permitting theft and robbery, so he may have his share,  
Bestowing others goods, and bearing such as faithless are.  
About his holy Altars eke, he placeth in degree,  
Such as have falsely been forsworn, and beastliest men that be.  
But these are trifles in effect, of estimation none,  
With him that holds the heavenly keys, and rules the world alone.  

D. 19 Sic omnes & Si Romanorum, & sequentibus D. 11. Hoc vestrae.  For to the ancient scriptures old, and word of God divine,  
Full like a prince he equal makes, his own commandments fine,  
And words that from his mouth proceeds, from mouth that can not lie  
Nor can deceive, but doth support, the truth most painfully.  
Wherefore it is both right and just, that thus he doth persuade,  
All such as seek for life, to obey the laws that he hath made.  

D. 11. Nolite 24. q. 1. Rog●mus. D 11 Hoc vestae. D. 19 Sic omnes.  For what can be more true than those? what can be thought or done?  
That shows more beautiful, or doth in better order run.  
What helpeth sooner to attain, the joys of happy life?  
By this we know who is our head, and ender of all strife.  
And who doth keep the glistering keys, that opens heaven wide,  
What need we seek for other aid, or other Christ beside.  
Who suffered death and cruel pain, for our offences mad,  
And satisfied his father's wrath, which we deserved had.  
Besides into his hand he takes, the state of Caesar hie,  
That nothing in the world be found, of any majesty.  
But he possess and conquer it, and therefore doth he wright,  
Himself as heir apparent to the Empire here of right.  
Whereto he hath persuaded Kings, and men of each degree,  
Which wonderful above the rest, appeareth unto me.  
But all men with the name of God, he rules and threatens hear,  
And with the same so stops their mouths, that none dare hiss for fear,  
Against that shameless wicked face, ne brags he thus alone,  
But useth his usurped power, delivered him of none.  
He maketh Kings and gives the crown, to such as serve him best, 
D. 63. tibi.   
Whereby he gets him trusty men, still ready at his hest.  
Who if they wax unruly ones, or happen to rebel,  
He plucks them from their kingdom strait, & casts them down to hell,  
With dreadful lightning overwhelmed, and doth discharge anon,  
Their subjects from allegiance due, absolving every one.  
If that they attempt with weapon to defend their realm and right,  
Then moves he other Kings in haste, and Princes for to fight,  
And forth he sends his proper band, and all his force withal,  
So that although the Prince be strong, he cannot match them all.  
If leaving wars they list to strive, with writing openly,  
And to commit their cause and right unto some council high,  
In vain it is no council sits, without his own consent,  
Nor may give sentence otherwise, than after his intent. 
D. 17. Synodum. & nec licuit.   
And thus poor Prince no remedy, but yield he must at last,  
And ask forgiveness for his faults, and his offences past.  
Most humbly bowing down his knees, or falling on his face,  
And kissing though against his will, his feet for hope of grace.  
The stories tell that once there was, an Emperor great of might,  
Whose neck was stamped and trod upon, by this deformed sprite,  
And used with most despiteful words, whereby may plain appear,  
What power the Pope doth challenge over Kings and nations here.  
That of the Church of Christ he is, not head nor Lord alone,  
But of the universal world, and subject unto none.  
Wherefore such Kings as wisdom have, do hear, and nothing say:  
And dare not move their lips against the man that bears such sway.  
But are content to hold their peace, and judge their hap most sweet,  
If once they may attain to come to kiss his holy feet.  
Ne would they do this same to him that sits in Turkish feat,  
Nor to the mightiest Prince on earth, though he were never so great.  
And better were it sure by much, a thousand times to die,  
Then that such shame should thus redounded unto such Prince's high.  
But as the Lord of heaven and earth, this same to him they do,  
And whatsoever he commands, they strait are ready to.  
If that he will them wars to make, than Armour out of hand  
They wear, and Cities strong they sack, or spoil some wealthy land.  
They pill, and poll, and quite deface, the fair and pleasant realms,  
They waste, they ransack, & distain, each place with bloody streams.  
If that he bid them take the life, or cast in dreadful flame,  
The learned, unlearnd, the Lord, the mean, they strait fulfil the same.  
Ne think it lawful for to spare their parents in this case,  
Nor kinsmen near, they burn and kill whereas it likes his grace.  
Although they know no cause thereof, nor have not weighed it right,  
Yea though they know that it be nought, and only came of spite.  
Yet his commandments must be done, for thus the father will,  

Extra de offi. D. 96. Bene quidem & in scriptures. D. 10. Suscipitis.  And doth command that every lay man be contented still  
With whatsoever he appoints, not ask how nor why,  
In things that touch the Church of Rome, but let the sentence lie.  
Besides the Courts of every Prince, to him must subject be.  
If any happen to mislike, that they may frank and free  
Appeal unto the Court of Rome. A wondrous power and might  
In things that long to God and man to give a judgement right.  
But be not thou herein deceived, for this as all the rest  
Doth smell of gain, which how he gets he taketh for the best.  
So many things of Kings and Dukes and commons doth he gain,  
They freely granting, since for that he gives the heavenly reign.  
Fair Countries, Castles, Dukedoms, States & famous cities large,  
For blessed life he doth receive as things of little charge.  
For Bishop's often use the aid, of Kings in trifles small,  
But Kings & Dukes have need of Popes, to save their souls withal.  
What cannot lewd persuasion do, with cloak of godliness?  
And more he hath decreed that such, as do his laws transgress,  
That all the rest his enemies be, who cannot with this port,  
Both Kings and emperor's overthrow, much more the poorer sort? 
D. 93. Si inimicus.   
Who would not fear the anger of, so great and black a train?  
Therefore do Kings full warily fly, and wisely eke refrain,  
From speaking evil of his grace, whatsoever hath been done,  
And far from such a God, and from his lightnings fast they run.  
Thus in the mean time lives he safe, and free from every man,  
Since none he knows may be his mate, nor none above him than,  
Nor any that dare with him strive, or stout against him stand,  
He enters league with Princes and with kings of every land.  
With Cities and with people great, that live at liberty,  
And able are to deck the fields, with lusty chivalry.  
In fine both wise and ware he is, in every kind of case,  
If all be still, and blessed peace, do reign in every place:  
Then strait he stirs and moveth wars, and helps the stronger side,  
And will be sure to gain a fleece, whosoever loose beside.  
Thus seeking his commodity, with loss of others blood,  
Sometime himself to battle goeth, with fond and frantic mood.  
His Goatish beard long hanging down, in shirt of mail arrayed.  
Safe shrouded in his Corselet close, all gilt and overlaid.  
Thus glistering all in armour brave, with spoil and pillage rife,  
He closeth stately towns with trench, and threateneth loss of life  
Unto his foes, with cannon shot he battereth down a pace,  
The lofty walls, or lying long doth 'cause them sue for grace.  
And yield for fear of famine up, their towns and goods withal,  
Then puts he whom he list to sword, for words and trespass small.  
And so to Rome returneth strait, his triumph with him led,  
Lo, thus upon the earth doth live, our chief and sovereign head.  
Canst thou declare a worthier wight, or more excelling grace?  
Then bring him forth, peruse the time, and search in every place.  
Hence sends he down his power into, the smoky pit of hell,  
With charms and solemn ceremonies, and days agreeing well.  
Where though he cannot clearly loose, the damned souls from chains  
Ne quench the furious fiery flames, nor cease the raging pains.  
Nor break the swift still turning wheels, nor kill the dreadful snakes,  
Yet with his voice their torments all and grieves more light he makes.  
So that the wretched souls have ease, whilst certain hours last,  
Ne burns the fire, nor gnaws the worm, nor turns the wheel so fast.  
For if that Orpheus with his songs, Megaeras whip could stay,  
And cease the biting of the worms, and hellish pains allay.  
Why should the Pope not do so much, the King of earth and skies?  
Besides, an other kind of fire to purge he doth devise,  
Whereas he rains himself alone, and shows his force and might.  
From hence he looseth souls, and sends them to the heavens bright,  
With pardons, prayers, hymns and gifts, ne forceth much the same▪  
Although the souls three hundred years have burnt in fiery flame.  
If at the length some golden shower do happen for to fall,  
In little space it drives him out, and makes an end of all.  
Whole kindreds loseth he with this, and keepeth from the fire,  
Whereas his favour doth extend, and where he hath his hire.  
Himself not Pluto can resist, nor all his army black,  
Although they strive with claws to stay, or pluck with fleshokes back●  
His voice makes all the fiends afraid, and from the bottom deep,  
He hoisteth up the weeping souls, in blessed joys to sleep.  
What King, Apostle, Prophet else? could ever do this feat,  
There never was, nor is, nor shall, be any power so great.  
Moreover any Wight on earth, in robes he passeth clean,  
If any time in majesty, he listeth to be seen.  
With clotheses of purple covered quite, which long about him fall,  
With silk and crimson shining bright, and cloth of gold withal,  
Beset with precious stones and pearl, that costly India bears,  
Such as no Queen of Egypt would, have drunk or drawn from ears.  
Above all this his triple crown, doth shine and glister bright,  
With beauty like of stones arrayed, of strange and wondrous sight.  
His Crosier then with double cross, all framed of finest gold,  
May here be seen, no silver show, may any man behold.  
Except some solemn day require, I leave out here among,  
His chiefest pomp, his stately train, and guard in armour strong.  
Their order eke, and how they stand, their ceremonies sweet,  
With books & bells their gesture strange, with head with hands & feet,  
Besides a number of the like, which hear were long to tell.  
If that his wealth, his pride, and pomp: thou hast regarded well,  
And all his fond conditions lewd, thou shalt not find his mate  
On all the earth, that more doth seek the joys of worldly state.  
The earth is also holy thought, wheresoever his feet do stand,  
And every thing is holy made, that cometh near his hand.  
Wherefore to Church he never goeth, but borne on shoulders high,  
Even as the sacred Ark whereas, the Manna hid doth lie. 
Ratio. divi▪   
O Lord, that shame cannot compel these men to come away,  
And that they have no fear of God, nor of the latter day.  
This is the shameless forehead of that purple Whore unclean,  
Whereby she sots and mocks the world, without all end or mean.  
Thou askest perhaps what shift he makes, these charges to maintain,  
Demand no more, no Prince nor King, nor Emperor hear again  
Hath so much silver in his Chest, nor store of golden sums,  
And of a wealthy Peter eke, I know not whence he comes.  
He hath the whole inheritance, that large and broad doth lie,  
With City's great, and fruitful soils, and ports and havens by.  
Eke hath he Rome the Queen and head, of all the world before,  
So that a thousand talents yearly cometh in, or more.  
Besides a greater somme he doth throughout the world receive, 
600000.   
By selling heaven, and pardoning faults, and granting power & leave,  
And by his Annates much he gets, these terms themselves do feign, 
Con. 1. q. 1. Quicquid statuimus. Gratia. q. 3. Vendentes. Chn. D. 100 Novit.   
Which words I hear am forced to use, to show their usage plain.  
The pelting Pals besides do get, and gain him treasures great,  
The Bishops confirmation like, and wealthy Abbot's seat.  
What profit comes by Prebenders, when as with bribes they play  
Each one to win, where who gives most, goeth conqueror away.  
Yea certain months he chooseth out, and times in every year,  
Wherein an others due and right, to him belongeth clear.  
What should I every thing declare, he falsely deals in all,  
And upon every morsel fat, his crooked Talentes fall,  
And part he takes in every place, he hunteth for money round  
Both hear amongst the living and such as are brought to ground.  
That so his chests may still be full, and Gold may always flow,  
Which upon furious wars he doth, and houses fair bestow,  
In building Bridges, Temples, Towers, and costly Chapels fair,  
In placing of his kinsmen high, in lofty lordly chair.  
In ryo●, pleasure, and disport, and sumptuous banquetings,  
That long to worldly Princes here, and other heathen Kings.  
Which represents some Perses stout, or Croesus' full of pride,  
And not like Christ's Apostles true, or any christian guide.  
Desirest thou for to know his trade, and steps in living right,  
All full of pomp and glory it is, and foolish vain delight.  
Such filthy acts I will not tell, as Fame doth true report,  
Lest that I stain my verse and book, in lewd and filthy sort.  
But now regard advisedly in all that hath been told,  
If any thing Apostlelyke, or christian-like doth hold.  
Or near unto that doctrine pure, that Christ himself hath taught,  
Or that may holy counted be, or Catholic be thought.  
Nothing against the glory more, of God thou canst declare,  
Nor nothing that more filthy seems, than this if we compare.  
Wherefore at this time many be, that think and plainly say,  
That Antichrist possesseth Rome, and doth the Bishop play.  
Wherefore they from his name do fly, and from his fond decrees,  
His orders, doctrine, temples, and his solemn mysteries:  
None otherwise than from a Bear, or Lion in their way,  
And in the morning bless themselves, lest that they hap that day,  
To meet some shaven oiled beast, or else some other Groom,  
Belonging to the filthy Court, and popish sea of Rome.  
I marvel therefore why that men, should call him by the name,  
Of holiest, since no man yet, could holy prove the same.  
But rather nought. The place can not, nor yet his chief degree,  
Nor all his riches pomp or pride, can prove him good to be.  
Wherefore good Phoebus here declare, by Oracle divine,  
And eke you learned Muses all, this matter here define.  
Wherein this man should here be thought, apostolic to be,  

D. 40. Non Loca. Ante omnia.  Or holiest called, we know no cause, nor no desert we see.  
And do you smile? would you that we, should know the colour dim,  
Of phrase contrary, and after that, in all things judge of him?  
Thus of this present kingdom here, the goodly head I deem,  
Thou well perceyust, but better shouldst, if thou at Rome hadst been  
And any time continued there, and seen him face to face,  
Then shouldst thou well have viewed thyself, his whole & comely grace  
The other pillars of this kingdom, now I will declare,  
That bear a sway above the rest, and chief and greatest are.  
Such as this head createth and doth join with him to guide,  
But full and whole authority, is unto them denied.  
The greatest, and the chiefest are, those men that take their name, 
Cardinals.   
Of Charnels that are fixed fast, and bear the door in frame.  
Because that on these holy hooks, these kingdoms gates do stand,  
And that the care and cure thereof, they wholly take in hand.  
Out of this holy company the Pope himself doth spring,  
And to no other doth belong, the choice of such a King.  
The most of them are learned men, and borne of houses good, 
Rational. divinor.   
But favour oftentimes of friends, and highness of their blood,  
Doth bring th' unlearned hereunto, and such as are not wise.  
These men if from their wonted state, of life they did not rise,  
Unto such honour great, perhaps they would be godly bent,  
And labour in the works of Christ, with good and true intent.  
But as they be they never can, for honour spills them quite,  
And makes them labour for to keep, this wealthy reign upright.  
And by their oath they promise' all, and faith assured give,  
This kingdom here withal their might, to maintain whilst they live:  
And first that no pretence against the Pope permitted be,  
Nor that he have dishonour here, nor loss of liberty.  
And secondly, that nothing of his kingdom here decay,  
Nor of his Laws and ceremonies (though lewd) be pulled away.  
Thus safe through their defence and aid, the Pope now feareth not,  
But safely keeps that he hath long, with fraud and lying got:  
These therefore as his councillors, and faithful doth he take,  
Who rather will be piecemeal torn, than once their prince forsake.  
And these in message doth he send, to Kings and Princes great,  
Whereby he may their councils learn, and better work his feat.  
Then dreadful wars he doth persuade, or else some peace to take,  
Which he perceives that best shall for his own advantage make.  
Or else some foolish matter doth, he wrongfully defend,  
Or moveth them that heretics, be brought to cruel end,  
Or under colour false of Turks, for aid he labours long,  
Deviseth some atonements new, or breaks the friendship strong.  
The people run to meet them strait, the council do resort,  
Sometime the Prince himself doth go, but all the oiled sort  
With shaven pates do forward march, with lofty cross in site,  
The guides and rulers of the schools, all clad in surples white  
And down they duck with solemn cheer, and many a crooked knee,  
Beseeching God to send them life, and long in health to be.  
Thus with this jolly welcome here, these fathers forth are led.  
Who cross and bless with fingers often, as men astonished  
To see the people's fondness such, they well themselves do know,  
They bring no good nor virtuous thing, yet proud their port they show  
And use the people's foolishness, thus forth in pomp they ride,  
In costly Crimsons all arrayed, and Purple hats beside.  
A number great of men they bring, with Moils and horses fair,  
In princely order furnished, and divers of them spare.  
And even at Rome this pomp is seen, and gorgeousness of life,  
Where fleshly lust and belly cheer, remaineth always rife:  
The better to maintain this state, and charges of the same,  
And that they may be Cardnallike, and to their head no shame,  
They chosen are of prelate's such, as wealthiest were before,  
Yet will not all this wealth now serve, that erst sufficed and more.  
Their charges now are grown so great, their sumptuousness is such,  
Since first they attained with greedy mind, the Cardinals hat to touch.  
Of sundry fetches have they need, and like their Captain fine,  
They must some kind of ways devise, to frame a silver mine.  
And this they do some months when as, the Pope doth bear the sway  
They seize upon some Prebens fat, as on a pleasant prey.  
And Monkish Abbeys rich they ●etch, and take into their hands,  
They poll the Monks and oftentimes, reserve the chiefest lands.  
The hook hangs out on every side, to bring in greater gain,  
Lest they should lack at any time, to furnish out their train.  
Thou thinkest perhaps they do some good, or stand some Realm in stead  
Wherefore it is not much amiss, that thus they often be sped.  
Thou art deceived no good there comes, from them to any wight,  
Except perhaps some one their friend, be brought in better plight.  
A hateful burden are they to the world, and people plain,  
And Dranes that greedily consume, the fruits of others pain.  
They serve their chief, and for his state, they jeopardy often a joint,  
But as for any other man, they weigh him not a point.  
If kingdoms great to ruin come, and people perish quite,  
Or blood be spilled in every place, they force it not a mite.  
They laugh and with a routing noise, their grief they plain descry,  
But if themselves a flee but bite, with gaping jaws they cry.  
And God and man to witness call, what torment and what pain,  
They suffer for the Church of God, and for the heavenly rain.  
Whereas in deed they nothing feel, for her they never knew,  
But for the Pope's decrees and right, and honour to him due.  
They ready are to suffer harm, wherefore they wander wide,  
That think they wear their hats of read, and purple garments side,  
Because that with the loss of blood, the fold of Christ they keep.  
It is a lie, they meddle not, with Christ nor with his sheep.  
They strive for ease, and for their father's false usurped head,  
And sometime for to come by wealth, their tender blood is shed.  
Of such he makes in every realm if any there excel,  
And favour things that longs to Rome, and are contented well,  
To strive for them with learned books, with voice with tongue & hand  
They think themselves in paradise, and happiest for to stand.  
While he regards them not a whit, nor all their honour vain,  
But looketh only to himself, and to his lusty reign.  
And riches here by help whereof, and wretched life beside,  
He framed Rome the glass of faith, the sampler and the guide.  
A guide in deed if that thou mindste, to travel unto hell, 
D. 19 Enim vero.   
And to be shut out from the place where God himself doth devil.  
Their office thus, thou hast their life, and all their fond arrays,  
But seest thou aught apostolic, or that deserveth praise?  
Or tasteth any thing of Christ? is it because they strive,  
In princely pleasure to excel, the greatest Prince alive?  
Or that they keep their stables stoarde, with Moils and coursers ●●ne,  
Or that they stately houses build, with waste of golden mine?  
The Turks that know not Christ a whit, in this can do aswell,  
And well would laugh if they should see, that such as bear the ●ell  
Above the rest, by whom the Church of Christ is guided hear,  
Should thus bestow their travail whole, about such foolish gear.  
Now must we tell the bishops state, and their disguysings see  
Such Bishops namely as hath been, with us in Germany.  

Bishops. D. 84. pervenit. D. 25. Primum D. 36. Qui. & Si quis. 12. q. 2. Gloria. 16. q. 1. Quoniam Con. 11. q. 1 Te quidem. &. 12. q. 1. Clericus. & sequentibus. Con. D. 88 episcop. per latum. Con. D. 42. episcopus.  These aught of duty to defend, the flock of Christ, and feed,  
To give example with their lives, and to be learned in deed,  
In virtue and in godliness, all other to excel,  
To see the poor and fatherless, and Widows ordered well,  
Like as the steps of old declare, and late decrees have taught,  
But all things otherwise thou seest, and topsy-turvy brought.  
Of Princes here the name they take, and dreadful titles high:  
They look aloft, and unto worldly things themselves apply.  
Regarding not the word of Paul, who bids them this beware.  
Great towns they have, and castles placed on Rocks that stately are,  
And Lordship's rich in hand they hold, revenues great beside,  
Which with the sword they safely keep, & with the sword they guide.  
Himself upon some lofty hill, in Castle strong doth lie:  
far of from preaching of the word of God, or people's eye.  
Whereas he lists he leads his life, and like a Prince doth reign,  
Appointing for his deputies, unlearned men and vain,  
And granting power to buzzards blind, who spread in every place  
The counsels and decrees of Popes, and with ill favoured grace,  
They bawl against all such as put their trust in Christ alone,  
And think themselves redeemed by his death, and others none.  
While as this Prince and Bishop here, all drowned in vain delight,  
And overwhelmed in worldly cares, cannot regard aright  
Th'affairs of Christ, nor if he would, he dares not busy be,  
Jest that he should be perjured ralde, and stained with heresy:  
And from his stately seat be cast, with great reproach and shame,  
By force of dreadful oath constrained, in all things here to frame  
Himself according to the Pope, and to defend his head,  
His stately seat, his laws, his faith, and orders publishedde.  
And not a hearebred for to pass, the steps of custom old,  
By which the holiest father hie, doth maintain here and hold,  
His superstitious vanities, his mockries and deceat,  
His foolish faith and beastly life, of shaven slovens great.  
And all his other gewgaws here, and trumpries on a heap,  
Of which within my other books, hereafter will I speak.  
He knows that lies doth him sustain, and all his family,  
And nothing gainefuller unto the oiled company:  
Then people kept in blindness still, not knowing good nor right,  
But ready always to believe, whatsoever they recite.  
No Bishop therefore sworn, unto the Pope dare once apply,  
Himself to preach the word of Christ, and doctrine perfitly:  
Nor for to show the people plain, the true undoubted way,  
Nor altar superstitions, nor take some part away.  
Although he know that many things, are horrible and nought:  
Ne will he suffer such as would the people well have taught.  
As late a reverend Bishop old, began with virtuous mind,  
To break the darkened mists of men, and path of Christ to find:  
And saw what mischief under face of holiness was wrought, 
Tharchbishoppe of Coleyne.   
Wherefore disordered things to bring, to better state he thought,  
And divers matters to amend, that clean contrary were  
To God, as worships, orders, and the guise of teaching here.  
This matter was no sooner known, but straight the Monkish rout,  
Their lying darts began to throw and all the clergy stout,  
Put pen to book, the schoolmen eke, a pace did sharp their stings,  
The Lawyers also sought to know, the state of divers things.  
At length the matter came to Rome, before the Popish seat,  
Who seeing the harm might come thereby, and what destruction great  
Unto his kingdom, calleth straight a council to him near,  
And cities the feeble aged man, from country far to appear.  
Whose cruel drift perceiving he, and knowing well beside,  
Their lewd demeanours and deceits, that erst he often had tried.  
And how they never could be brought, to good or sober mind,  
His Bishopric he giveth up, and honours all resinde.  
This thing would no man here have done, that had regarded more,  
This worldly pomp and pleasures vain, then Christ and christian lore.  
For each man fears the Popish force, and judgement ay severe,  
And most of all applies himself, with care and travail here,  
In word and deed to show themselves, good servants for to be,  
Unto the Pope, and furtherers of his supremacy.  
And he that gives his mind to this, how should he any ways,  
assoon deserve the truth or seek, of Christ the only praise.  
When as he thinks himself not bound, to God nor to his son,  
For unto them he hath not sworn, as he before hath done  
Unto the Pope, nor thinks to have by them commodity,  
What good unto the people then, or where in profits he?  
That for to please doth teach untruth, and still defendeth it,  
And towns and Cities only guides, and preacheth not a whit.  
Nor suffers others truth to teach, nor any thing at all,  
That to a Bishop doth belong, but in his princely hall  
Doth lead a slothful easy life? we know not perfectly,  
But wonderful it seemeth sure, that holiness should lie  
Within such idle drowsy shows, for thus for to excel,  
In pleasures, City's fair to build, defend and furnish well,  
Great horse to keep, and many men, in livery rich arrayed,  
To hunt and hawk, and look aloft, and make poor men afraid.  
The Turk and every worldly Prince, as well as they do this.  
Dost thou suppose that this will serve, or else sufficient is,  
That on some Holy days they serve the Lord in solemn guise,  
Therein doth passing pomp appear, and hurly-burly rise,  
And for the people goodly game, th'unskilful youth resorts,  
And fast with mazed minds they run, to see such goodly sports.  
The Bishop in the mean time is, apparelde gorgeously,  
And fourteen sundry garments doth, he herein occupy,  
Without the which he cannot do, his sacrifice at all,  
Yea some must fifteen on them have, beside their costly Pall.  
His Sandals first he putteth on, of silk or velvet new,  
And then his Amias and his Albe, that hangeth to his show,  
Which doth in whiteness pass the Swan, that in the river fleets,  
A slender Girdle round about his loins, embracing meets.  
And eke about his neck a ●●oale, doth round in compass sit,  
The greatest part is wrought of silk, of length and largeness fit,  
Which when upon his blessed breast, a cross is overlaid,  
It passeth down and underneath his girdle fast is stayed.  
Then puts he on his Tunicle, of purple colour bright,  
And over that his Dalmatik, a short sléeude garment light.  
And then upon his tender hands his Gloves he draweth on,  
And many a costly stone in Kings he weareth thereupon.  
Then over all he puts his Cope, a garment strange in sight,  
Which like unto the loathsome Toad behind is shaped right.  
With cross depainted brave upon, his back and eke his breast,  
And after this his napkins white, he joineth with the rest.  
And round about his porkish neck, his Pall of passing price,  
He casteth on, with hanging hood, and knot of fine device.  
His forked Mitre than he takes, with gold and stones arrayed,  
From whence two labels hanging out, behind are overlaid.  
Now last of all his Crostar staff, in hand he holds upright,  
Whose crooked upper part is decked, with gold and jewels bright.  
The rest with silver garnished is, and plaited fine and neat,  
Lest it should grieu● his holy hands, with weight of metal great.  
What God I say, or Sybyll then, what Moses ever taught,  
For to be clad with such a pomp, and garments strangely wrought?  
When long agone they left their books, and freely had assigned,  
Each block to preach, and Bussards such, as had none other mind:  
But only for to ●éede themselves, and that they weary were,  
Of such things as belong unto, the Bishop's duty here.  
And thinking shame for them to deal or meddle with the same,  
Addict themselves to matters grave, and worldly works profane,  
Amidst their pleasant quietness, these toys they did devise:  
To mock th'amazed foolish world, and blear the people's eyes.  
That when they should behold them thus, with stones & gold beset,  
And see them in their masking coats, with gorgeous grace to ●et:  
They should accounted them wondrous men, sent down from heavens hie,  
Of whom they might eternal joy and pardons dearly buy.  
And lest themselves should hear be thought to dote and wander wide,  
They do declare by every sign, what thing is signifide,  
As if they Moses' vestures were, and God had them assigned,  
And not the trifles fond of men, and fancies of the mind.  
The Bishop's part is learning sound, into the Church to bring,  
And not the foolish signifying, and shadows of the thing,  
That doting heads have erst devised, and foolish minds of men:  
Not gold, nor pomp, nor strange attire becomes this house or them.  
They aught not of the Church to make a Stage or Theatere,  
Nor for to prick or prank themselves, in such disguised gear.  
But all the popish state almost consists in this degree,  
Of trifles such as thou thyself anon shalt plainly see.  
Thus armed at last with every piece the Bishop cometh in,  
Aproching to the Altar high, with countenance fierce and grim:  
Whom scarce his weighty clotheses permits, to draw his breath at all,  
Or for to pass with any pace, or any moving small.  
But who is able then to show the gesture strange, and grace,  
And shuffling up and down of Clerks, herein from place to place?  
With what a great solemnity, he lifts his look on high?  
His Mitre now he putteth of, and on immediately,  
And at his hand there standeth one with still attentive eyes,  
To put it on and of again, according to the guise.  
Sometime he stands, sometime he sits, and sweetly often doth kiss,  
His Altar, Chalice, Book, and Glass, enclosed here for this.  
Some while upon the left side of the Altar doth he stand,  
And strait from thence he fisks again unto the other hand.  
From thence unto the midst he goes, and once against away  
To the left side, then to the midst, where ends at last the play.  
Sometime he musing standeth still, as fastened to the ground,  
And mumbling with a secret voice, himself he turneth round.  
Now both his hands, a sunder far upon the Altar lie,  
And straight ways both together joined, he lifts them up on high,  
And shortly spreadeth them again, and both he thrusteth forth,  
The one directly to the South, the other to the North.  
Now down upon the ground he stars, and then he patters often,  
And suddenly he starteth up, and casts his eyes aloft.  
A thousand Crosses than he makes, and blesseth every place,  
For fear lest that some saucy spirit his doings might disgrace.  
None otherwise his Ministers that round about him stand,  
Do handle all their holy rights, and always are at hand,  
Who Cushions soft of Silk, whereon to lay his books, do bring,  
And Frankenscence in every place, with Ce●sers sweet they fling,  
And candles, Crosses, Banners, all they bear, and wait upon,  
And shoulders, books, and hands they kiss, and eke the Altar stone.  
One up a loft the patten holds, enclosed in silken veil,  
Who ever stands, behind his back, to see what thing doth fail.  
An other to the people turned, in tune full strange doth cry,  
Such words as scarcely any there, knows what he means thereby.  
Which chiefest is above the rest, the Bishop all alone,  
Doth eat and drink, and gives no part, thereof to any one,  
Nor any seeks thereof to have, so much these fellows way,  
Their high and holy mysteries, that bear so great aswaye.  
Of all these things what profit can there to the people rise?  
They are but trumprye and deceits, to daze the foolish eyes.  
Yet is the same the greatest thing, and holiest ay by much,  
Nor any better service hath the papacy than such.  
What seek'st thou than? may these things faith, or godliness be thought  
Hath ever them our master chief commanded, wild, or taught?  
The scriptures read, and look what Christ, hath us appointed there,  
Go search thapostles orders well, from first and farthest year,  
Which in their acts and writings they unto the world did leave,  
Thou shalt no such thing ever see, nor any like perceive.  
Both Baptism and the Supper of the Lord they evermore,  
Did purely in one sort observe, according to their lore:  
Ne played the fools with gesture strange, and foolish trifles vain,  
Nor counterfeited Princes thus, with guard and stately train.  
Yea some of them there are that when they to the altar go, 
The Bishop of Herbipolis.   
A sword before them carried is, and set before them so:  
That men may know that power they have, as well as Prince's great  
To use the sword, and upon life to sit in judgement seat,  
What maketh fury here? what doth the bloody sword upon,  
The altar mild, a place of peace? the holy room whereon,  
The blessed sacraments of peace, aught always to be done,  
There stands a loft the fearful signs, of deadly wars begun,  
And where the sweet forgiveness of, our sins we aught to have, 
8. q. 1. Qui episcopatum. D. 36. Si quis. D. 84. pervenit. 2. q. 7▪ Non. omnes. D. 45. Quid autem.   
There stands the Bishop to revenge, and threaten slaughters brave,  
A worthy thing to join that doth, pertain to God and man,  
How can they so? he should be sure, a worthy Bishop than.  
If that he would behave himself, as old decrees him teach,  
And leaving sword, and feats of war, would give himself to preach  
I marvel they suppose that things, that thus contrary be,  
Should join in one, and that the Mitre should with sword agree.  
As if of Moses and of Christ, one person they should frame,  
Whereof the one draws out the sword, and fiercely shakes the same.  
The other puts it up, and doth forbidden all his to kill.  
The one appointeth laws severe, and penalties at will,  
The other sets his free from all, content but one to make,  
Releaseth all offences here, and sins away doth take.  
The one a Minister of death, a Prince revenging rife,  
The other author still of peace, and giver here of life.  
But Anius long agone was both, a Priest and eke a King,  
In deed we are come to such a pass, as now in every thing,  
The orders of the Heathen vain, and rites we do receive,  
And follow all the foolishness, that they to us did leave.  
Nay fonder things by much we fain, then ever they could find,  
At Christ they only seem to laugh, and count his words but wind.  
But whether pass I now my bounds? it was not mine intent,  
For to refel each foolish thing, that shameless Priests invent,  
But to recite them here for such, as knew them not before,  
Whereby they might delighted be, and laugh at them the more.  
Some sort there are that better like, in Prince's courts to look,  
Then poorly for to preach of Christ, and poor upon a book.  
They commonly of counsel are, the weightiest things that be,  
Are done by them: they councillors are, and sit in high degree.  
By whom the kingdoms most are ruled, in every Parliament,  
They give their voice, and nothing passeth void of their consent.  
They look to victualing of Camps, when bloody wars do reign,  
Or take some matter such in hand, as doth to Dukes pertain.  
A wondrous thing it is that Kings, these men so much doth need,  
As if there were not of the laity, skilful men in deed:  
Whom good experience well hath taught, and who by learning can,  
Sufficiently deserve the things, that long to God or man.  
Do they desire their doings should, at Rome reported be,  
And nothing of their council kept, at home in privity.  
But that unto the holy father, straight it should be borne,  
To whom they swear, who doth discharge such as before have sworn?  
What hath the common wealth beside, to be asurde of them,  
That they shall trusty be, and with their counsel help the realm?  
They neither wife nor children have, for whom they should prepare▪  
And for their own posterity, they have no cause to care.  
Nor houses of their own they have, nor any kind of lands,  
But have the fruits of other men, and toil of strangers hands.  
Being free from care of any loss, yea though the skies should fall,  
Or realms, or people perish quite, they take no hurt at all.  
They straight can out of goneshot be, and far from danger lie,  
And safe from secret dens they can, such hurlyburlyes fly.  
O blessed happy court whereas, no Bishop ever is,  
It is no place for any such, they are not called to this.  
And therefore nothing prospers well, that they do undertake,  
Their hapless hands in every thing, unhappy work do make.  
To every Bishop chief there doth, belong a Suffragan, 
Suffragans.   
Which name I think Apollo scarce, can tell from whence it came,  
But sure I am his masters turn, he serves continually,  
He bishops children, hallows altars, and Church and Chapels by▪  
He blesseth all the Popish sort, and always doth provide,  
In every parish oiled Priests, the people for to guide.  
The thréefoulde oil and water in, the Font he halloweth,  
And stones and fire and many such, and bells he christeneth.  
These Pageants evermore he makes, rewarded for his pain,  
Though not so much he get thereby, as Roscius wont to gain.  
This man doth buy some title for, a hundred Crowns or two,  
Of some old ruinous Church defaced in Turkey long ago,  
Whereto he dare not once come near, much less to preach or teach,  
And show himself a Bishop there, within his enemies reach.  
Yet falsely doth he swear that he, would shortly visit it,  
And do his duty, if it be peace, and Turks will him permit.  
But herein doth no danger lie, he meant not such a thing,  
To preach abroad, and wandering sheep of Christ in fold to bring.  
But idleness and slothful life, this only seeketh he,  
And therefore from his oath he is discharged at liberty.  
And whither he list he may go walk, with title fond and vain,  
And labour for an other man, rewarded for his pain▪  
Are not these same right goodly things, and follies great the while,  
And foolish fancies and deceits, that all the world beguile?  
Yet this good man is also sworn at first full solemnly,  
For to defend the Pope's decrees, and all his orders hie.  
If now at any time he preach, which if he should not often,  
He scarcely could maintain himself, nor come to look aloft,  
He shows how that he neither seeks the glory of Christ alone,  
Or people's health but only how, ta'duaunce the Popish throne.  
Therefore it's always good such sworn companions to eschew,  
For surely unto both their masters, can they not be true,  
Especially if they dissent, and sundry things do preach,  
As known it is the Pope and Christ, contrary clean do teach.  
What if I here should call to mind, the foolish parts he plays,  
When as he halloweth Churches or some solemn service says?  
A matter long it is to tell, some part therefore I will  
Declare: Democratus draw near, here mayest thou laugh thy fill.  
All others voided from the Church, that thus shall hallowed be,  
The Sexton only there remains, enclosed secretly.  
The doors are shut and Tapers twelve, before the Crosses light,  
Do stand, and twelve within the Church, are ever burning bright,  
Himself without the Bishop stands, with pomp, and proud array,  
And halloweth water first with salt, which pretty kind of play,  
If from the jews or Gentiles first, it came I cannot tell,  
But Moses always used the water as it came from Well.  
Then thrice about the Church he walks, and thrice doth water cast,  
Upon the walls, and thrice upon the door he knocks at last,  
With crooked staff, and of the Psalm with dreadful voice doth cry,  
Lift up your gates, supposing that, six hundred Devils do lie  
Within the Church. The Sexton straight, for them doth answer make,  
With roaring voice: what king is this, that thus doth on him take?  
And then as though the Devils all, should therewith give him place,  
The Clerk unbarring straight the gate, he enters in a pace,  
Accompanied with few that haply worthy are to see,  
Such mysteries: the rest shut out, that so unworthy be.  
Then on the saints he calls, and on the ground doth staring stand,  
And makes a cross with Ashes strawde, or if it lack with sand.  
Then Latin letters paints he fair, and great ilfavourdlye,  
And Hebrew worst of all by much, a tongue for them to high.  
Forthwith he conjures water new, the first no more of might,  
With salt and wine and ashes small, and every solemn right.  
To hallow there the Altar high, at last he setteth out,  
Twelve crosses thereupon, anointing it with oil about.  
In this sort every altar great, is hallowed evermore,  
But holy water is always one, among the things before.  
Then on each corner of the altar, crosses doth he set,  
With water drawn, and seven times about it doth he jest.  
And seven times upon the table, sprinkleth water clear,  
Then every corner of the sepulchre, is signed with crosses here,  
(A four square hole this sepulchre, amid the table is,  
Made out by Art) and all with Chrism anointed, after this  
His relics there he doth enclose, and certain franckenscence,  
And of the table places five, with solemn reverence:  
He doth anoint not only with oil, but with his cream divine,  
And last as children are confirmed, so doth he likewise ●ine,  
With cross & cream the altars brave: are not these wondrous sights  
Are they not wondrous mysteries? these fond and foolish rights,  
The idleness of learned men, that lived long ago,  
Brought forth, and eke their monstrous pride, wherewith provoked thee,  
They much despised the common sort, and making them to gaze,  
They found out first these foolish toys, the simple eyes to daze.  
Like ceremonies doth he use, while as he doth repair, 
Giving of orders.   
The shaven sort and fine young imps, doth plant in kingdom fair,  
As every one by name is called, together stand they there,  
Clad all in Albes, for so they term the vesture that they wear.  
The Bishop doth demand if that they good and virtuous be,  
And whether they are learned and meet, to take this great degree.  
The Officer doth answer straight, with plain and open voice,  
That learned and worthy both they are, and men of perfit choice.  
Whom erst before he never saw, nor of their names hath thought.  
Then straight unto the Acoluth, from th'altar down is brought,  
A Candle and a Candlestick, and here they do recite,  
How in the Church his office is, the Candles still to light.  
And bear about, an empty Cr●●●t put they in his hands,  
Wherewith to give the Priest his wine, whilst at his Mass he stands  
Yet doth he it not, nor place there is where this is looked unto,  
Besides each lay man when he list, this holy thing may do.  
Yet for the same his crown is shorn, and hear is cut away,  
Nor wear it in that place of length, he ever after may.  
The conjuror receives the book, and is commanded there,  
To learn the thing contained therein, and well away to bear,  
And for to cast out Devils by, his power and force divine:  
He minds it not, nor of the same doth ever see a line.  
For clasped it is delivered him, and clasped from thence again,  
Unto the altar is it borne, whereas it doth remain.  
He drives no Devils out of men, nor dare the matter prove,  
So that this great authority, doth serve to no behove.  
The reader then perhaps doth take the Testament in hand,  
To teach the people plain the word of God to understand.  
He readeth not, nor h●ble is sometime, nor seeks to be,  
No certain place appointed is, nor hour him to see.  
The Dorekéeper instructed than, what things he aught ●o do,  
When as this office great of weight, he there doth come unto.  
The Church door keys in hand he takes, and to the door doth bear,  
A hempen rope with laughter great, of all that see him there.  
Hereby he learns his duty is, to shut with diligence  
The doors, to keep the hallowed things, and drive the wicked thence.  
Yet none of all the same he doth, nor suffered thus to stand,  
Yet is there stir as if there were some wondrous thing in hand,  
When as the new made Priests cannot, their laughter here restrain  
But most of all the common sort, and foolish people vain.  
What should I speak of all things now? I am ashamed here,  
To wear my pen and spend the time, about such foolish gear.  
For all their holiness consists in vestures and in books,  
And putting stones about their necks, with lewd and apish looks.  
On all their left hands every one, a label hangeth down,  
The Priests their finger's grease, the Bishops hands, & thumbs & crown.  
But here there is a great a do, a weighty matter plain,  
To see the ointments drop not down, nor on their heads remain.  
Each Priest with rubbing dries his hands, and after that with sand,  
Or ashes scouring thoroughly clean, each finger of his hand.  
Then bread unto the altar from the Oven hot is brought,  
And cut in sundry sippets small, in order there is wrought.  
Which on the Bishop's greasy pate, in solemn sort they lay,  
And thus dry up the ointment there, and take it clean away.  
So careful are they for these things, that are not worth a straw,  
That never an hour do they leave, for faith and christian law,  
When as they christian bells: that man hath sure a brazen mind,  
That can forbear to laugh and doth, not think them Asses blind,  
Who grudgeth not with all his heart, that wickedness of time,  
For gain hath brought it unto this, that that most blessed sign,  
Which shows how we received are, as servants here of Christ,  
And priest to fight against the world, as soldier of the highest,  
Should with a senseless creature be, defiled before our face,  
With such add, and by a man of such a solemn grace?  
The people round about resort, on every side that be  
Together, mo●de with one desire, this wondrous sight to see,  
And warned by the wardens of the Church before the day,  
The Godfathers are present in their best and chief array.  
And some there are that so desire, this honour for to have,  
That of themselves they challenge it, and earnestly do crave.  
Of these the number is not small, a hundred shalt thou see,  
Two hundred yea, three hundred if the bell so worthy be.  
Then forth at last the Bishop comes in all his wonted gear,  
And praying fast he halloweth first, with salt the water clear.  
For without this he hath no power, though in the day time bright,  
A number great of Tapers stand, about him always light.  
When as he long hath prayed here, he wills them down to fall,  
Upon their knees and unto God, to pray in general,  
That he vouchsafe to grant this bell, a happy christendom,  
A lusty sound to drive away the dangers all that come.  
Anointed then it is in places such as needful be,  
And where the Priest is pleased, for in all parts they not agree.  
Then bids he them declare the name, (for as they children name,  
So name they bells in every point) and when he knows the same,  
He pours on water lustily, and thrice he doth it wet,  
And then with holy Chrism he doth, his crosses thereon set▪  
Then straytwayes thereupon he puts, a linen Crysome white,  
A vesture such as children wear, when first they come to light.  
And now the Godfathers begin, to stir about and toil,  
To touch and pluck it up a fit, from out the sacred soil.  
But with their hands they cannot all come near it now by much,  
Therefore with ropes they hale and hoist, and so far of do touch:  
And think they have done sufficiently, than gifts they offer all,  
Unto their christian daughter, gold, and silver therewithal.  
Each one would then seem rich, and strives the other to excel,  
Hanged up in steeple high, they feast, and joy that this same bell  
Hath thus received her christendom, and all that day throughout,  
They celebrated with drink and play, and dancing round about,  
With vomiting, and oftentimes, with brawling and with fight,  
And wanton gestures herewithal, and each unseemly sight.  
What thing more foolish canst thou tell, or hast thou seen before,  
Of great and small committed thus, and with religious lore?  
In fine regard this Suffragan, in all his matters high,  
What thing soever he doth, it may be laughed at worthily.  
For take from him his sprinkle, and his oil, and iesturs all,  
And that which in the Graecian tongue, they Crisma use to call:  
Thou hast unarmed him utterly, and spoiled him of his grace,  
That now he is not worth a point, in any kind of place.  
And as both Popes and Cardnalles with, their pomp and passing pride  
And wealthy Bishops fat, even so, these kind of men beside,  
The Church of Christ full well may spare, with loss and damage small  
For shame, and hurts, and burdens are, they to the people all.  
Regarding only this, that praise and glory here assigned  
To Christ, in darkness deep to hide, and keep the people blind.  
FINIS.   

The popish Kingdom The two Book.  
Perchance you look I should declare, their Consistories here,  
The warehouse chief of all their fraud, & foul deceitful gear. 
Consistories.   
Whereas for money crooked things, are made direct and plain  
And black is changed into white, and white to black again.  
As pleaseth him that fights with Fees, and gives them gold at william.  
Such pregnant wit have Doctors there, and such the Proctor's skill.  
Where gains grow not, with long delay, untried there hangs the case,  
And where the Suitor is but poor, and comes not of a pace.  
With gifts they do begin to feel, and ply the case again,  
And prosecute it then as long, as they see gifts remain.  
Here justice seldom time is seen, but such as Pluto's might  
Procures, for gold with weight and show, weighs down both law & right.  
By this they break such marriages, as God's decrees do knit,  
And join again in wicked sort, such as are most unfit:  
Without advice of Parents had, contracted secretly,  
Or faulty for some other cause, or lewd infirmity.  
Often times the cause requires such filthy deeds and tales to tell,  
As chaste and honest ears cannot, abide to hearken well.  
Hereat they laugh a pace and wondrously themselves delight  
That thou wouldst swear they only sought, with this to cheer their sprite▪  
If that the wife be found to be, an harlot openly,  
And from her husband, with some beastly knave away doth fly,  
another wife although the poor unguilty man desire,  
He cannot have though needful lust, and household it require.  
But is constrained to seek a whore, in countries far to roam,  
With charges great and hindrance of his business at home.  
And after her in every place, to ask where she hath strayed,  
In Churches, markets, and in towns, to crave the Ruler's aid.  
Whom if he cannot find, they grant, with great ado and strife,  
That he another woman take, but yet not as his wife.  
But if that after many years, the harlot come again,  
And wearied with her lewd companions, seeketh to remain,  
At home, she hath her place although, the husband it deny,  
As loath to leave the other for her fruit and honesty.  
These laws no books of God do teach, but toys of mortal brain,  
And dreams of Popes wherewith the world, defiled doth remain.  

officials.  A member is there of this same, the polling Official,  
And no small man he, is but one, that guides and ruleth all.  
Him must you please and always bribe, and bring him money still,  
If that you will your business frame, according to your william.  
This fellow for the Bishop holds, and hurls the flashing flame,  
And troubles men when often times, no cause requires the same.  
Wherefore if any time thou hapst, for to be cited here,  
Be sure that when thou comest thou dost, some worthy present bear,  
And so thou shalt with joy departed, and better satisfied,  
By much than if thy cause were good, or laws were on thy side.  
Who doth deny but money often, corrupts the common place?  
But polshorne Priests exceeds them all, in any bribing case.  
This kingdom hath an endless pit, whose damps that dreadful be  
Have burst abroad and drawn the wealth of all the world we see.  
The eager Kite so followeth not the Chickens here with care,  
Ne lusty Egle doth pursue, the faint and fearful Hare,  
As do these men hang out their nets, abroad for greedy gain,  
And lay their baits in every place, the simple sort to train.  

Cannons.  But to the Cannons let us come, who for the most part all,  
Are Gentlemen descended from some old and ancient hall.  
In old time only for such men, as learned were and good,  
Though of the common sort they were, this place appointed stood.  
Which men the people well could teach, and help in every thing,  
And truly preach the word of God, and serve th'almighty king.  
But when that riches once had hatched, Dame idleness with care,  
Nobility respecting ease, and dainty lordly far,  
Put out the common sort, although they learned and Godly were.  
And sent them to less holiness, and to more painful gear.  
These men about their shoulders wear, the skins that hairy be,  
Of beasts hanged round about with tails, a proper thing to see.  
Sometime in mantles black they go, according to the time,  
As though they mourned, when as no grief, their pleasant heart doth pine.  
They muse why they should laughed at be: who would not laugh to scorn  
Such foolish weeds, which if a man should wear that were not shorn:  
The very boys with rotten Eggs, and dirt would him bewray,  
Or to Physicians would his friends, go send him where he may▪  
Be purged of this humour mad, with potions two or three,  
These men suppose themselves great folks, and worshipped to be.  
They nothing have to do, but that to Church sometime they come,  
Arrayed in linen weeds & Cowls, with frowning countenance glome.  
Or in their Catskin hoods with tails, and wonted gesture proud,  
Whereas their hours Canonical, they chant and sing aloud,  
And that alonely with their lips not praying with their mind,  
This same is all their godly life▪ by which such wealth they find.  
What profit they the people here, what gains the Church hereby?  
Or may it not forbear these men, aswell as may the eye  
Forbear the web and painful pearl? and be aswell without,  
As may the perfit foot remain, without the feeble gout?  
What would they do? how could they come, to be such ●olly men,  
If Damassus the Pope of old, had not devised them?  
Their hours canonical and eke, decreed with statutes sore,  
No Priest should eat his bread at home, and take no pains therefore?  
They should be mainetainde for their hoods, and foolish fond array,  
And kept as idle lubbers still, for pastime and for play.  
And in some places so they are, for (tender souls) they have got,  
Lest that with daily singing they, should strain their stratcht out throtte  
Some other in their rooms do sing, whom Quire men they call, 
Quire men.   
These men for money do dispatch, the seven hours and all,  
Though never a word they understand, for gain is all their cheer,  
Although it be but small for which it is a wondrous work to hear  
How joyfully they ring it out, and fill the Church with noise,  
How each one strives for to excel, the other with his voice.  
Thou wouldst suppose they all were drunk, or some reward thereby,  
For which they strive with all their might, to get the victory.  
By means of these the Cannons are, discharged of burden great,  
And scarce at hours, or mass they sit, thus silent in their seat.  
And only hearers now they are: yea this doth seem a pain,  
And labour great unto these men, which scarcely they sustain.  
They rather choose to sit by fire, and talk and chat at will,  
Than for to dull their ears with Psalms, whereof they have no skill.  
And saving on the holy days, the Church they come not at,  
For present there they money have, and none but liketh that.  
Yet scarcely can they tarry till, their money given be,  
Which done, they go and leave the Church, to such as hired be.  
These are the toils and travails great, for which of charity,  
Great gifts they have, fair houses build, and masters called be.  
Besides at home they Parrots keep, and Apes and Munckeys store,  
And Hawks and Hounds with horse, that well are furnished evermore.  
And never seeks for to restrain, the pleasures of their mind,  
A thing that common is almost, to all the Popish kind.  
Besides a people lewd there is, a hateful sort withal,  

Courtesans.  Whom as I hear and understand, they Courtesans do call,  
Who running from their masters or, their parents in despite,  
Do come to Rome all raged and torn, in miserable plight,  
And to some Cardnalles stable creep, or to some Bishop great,  
And keep their horse, themselves the while being almost starved for meat:  
Till after many years, and many labours past and known,  
Their masters mind to help them there, though nothing with their own  
(For all the Popish court doth love, such servants as do live,  
Without wages, and always readier are to take than give.  
They nothing count a thousand Crowns to spend in pomp and pride  
And grudge their man a coat or cloak, n●w half with cold destride.  
Such charity is at Rome) therefore according to their guise,  
They make them Priests, & after that they have taught them to be wise,  
They send them to their country straight, with Bulls and licence all,  
Whereas such Prebends now they take, as in some ●outhes do fall.  
(But here they have heads alone, the Gripe doth not so swiftly snatch,  
The carcase vile, nor doth the fire, so soon the tinder catch,  
Nor Owl that in the day time here, doth happen for to sing,  
With loathsome shape the wondering birds, about her flocking bring.)  
They are strait at hand, and 〈◊〉 the mouth unto the Pope assigned,  
And of their licences do boast, with lo●t 〈…〉.  
Who so denies, is thratned ●ore, with law and cruel strife,  
And court of Rome, where Popish aid and favour still is rife.  
Who so will here to trouble bring himself, and loss withal,  
Who so will waste for Charters vain, and smack such popish gall,  
And go to Rome about the cause, to seek uncertain shifts,  
And think for to repeal the grant, for money and for gifts,  
(When right hath no prerogative) this surely were the part  
Of one that had his purse at will, or else a lusty heart.  
The Patron here amazed stands, repining secretly,  
To be deprived of his right, and take such injury.  
Such as are good and learned give place, and dare not here contend,  
With Monsters such, nor go to Rome to try the final end.  
Yet are they not content with one, the value being great,  
But seize upon some other such, with fraud and like deceat.  
Aswell unto their masters use, as to their own behove,  
That they may show what thankful minds they have, & how they love.  
Such pretty Begles have these Bishops still in every place,  
That hunt out Prebends fat for them, and follow fresh the chase.  
And some of them hereby augment their living very much,  
And fill their Coffers many times by bringing in of such.  
But resident these Courtiers are, and many times there devil,  
Sometime again forsaking all, their benefice they cell,  
And home to Rome they run as fast, and grants they purchase new,  
Of Prebends such as other Months do happen to be due.  
Sometime reserving nothing to themselves, they secretly  
Do cell and put them all away not fearing Simony.  
For laws they weigh not here a rush, they care for nothing than,  
And no man fear, but rather feared they are of every man.  
In Rome they only put their trust, and for the place alone  
They think men must be feared, & here they count themselves at home.  
Some others get these Prebends by a strange and wondrous way,  
Their grants obtained, and month well marked they change their own array.  
And counterfeit the countryman, or else some beggars state,  
Till that the Church door open stand, or else the Prebend gate,  
And on the aultare straight they leap, each man amazed to see,  
What monstrous act shall there be showed, or pageant played be.  
And tell the people there, that by the Pope's authority,  
They hold the Prebend longing to that Church and altar high.  
Desiring both the Patron, and the people all and some,  
They trouble him not, nor rashly deal, lest that they come to Rome.  
That of the Pope's bequests they there will thus possession take,  
What would you more? the derie name doth make them all to quake.  
The Patron strait gives place, and he, to whom he meant the same,  
The Sea of Rome doth make them all to tremble at the name.  
They list not strive so far from home, nor would they cited be,  
And both consume their goods and time with men of no degree.  
Thus enter they into the house, as men that make no doubt,  
Commanding such as there do devil, to get them straightways out.  
And to deliver up the keys, according to their will,  
For shameless fortune always helps such lusty fellows still.  
Perhaps thou thinkest they learning have, and can sufficiently  
Both guide and teach, whereby the people have no harm thereby.  
Thou art deceived, but few are learned. The greatest part that be,  
Scarce understand a learned word, nor can their A.B.C.  
As men that late from rubbing of a horses heels are brought,  
And never came in company where Grammar rules are taught.  
Some scarce do know the vulgar speech, nor can the people's tongue,  
That all men hate them worthily, and both the old and young  
Do curse the orders fond of Rome, that thus devised are,  
As things that trouble all the world, and all estates do mar.  

Parsons.  There Parsons also are, that in the villages remain,  
And in the towns, that justly do their offices obtain.  
Some part of them are learned and good, and some unlearned be,  
And far unmeet for to attain unto so high degree.  
Their duty is to preach unto the people earnestly,  
And minister the sacraments, and other matters high.  
If any profit of the popish sort might come unto  
The people, ●urely these were they that should the matter do.  
Nor should they idly live at home, but must their books apply,  
Except they would be counted blind, and laughed at commonly.  
But since the Pope subverted hath all right in general,  
And hath with loathsome poison stuffed and stained his members all:  
These also teach no doctrine pure, but all with poison dressed  
And mingled ●●ill, which e●●st they drew and sucked from mother's breast.  
As dreams and superstitio●s great, and childish service vain,  
And many lewd ungodly things invented all for gain.  
They can not only Christ regard, while thus the matter stands,  
Nor unto heaven bring the souls committed to their hands.  
Them lets the great respect to Rome, and eke the Pope their head,  
One of no small account, a man of kings and princes dread.  
Besides the great agreement of such as in Pulpits speak.  
A matter hard it is such bars and stops of truth to break:  
And for a man to strive against his profit and his gain,  
No mischief without lucre is, nor superstition vain.  
Wherefore it doth endure, and yet is kept unto this day,  
With tooth and nail in every place, and maintained every way.  
So that the simple people get no kind of good thereby,  
But nuzzled from their youth by these, in vile Idolatry.  
What should I tell you how they use their services divine,  
With man's inventions all defiled, corrupted with the time?  
And how they have set out a book full of such filthiness,  
From which to tread an inch awry they count a wickedness.  
Their doctrine and their dealings all, with filth defiled lie,  
And greater hurt the people take, than fruit or gain thereby.  
For not alonely doth the Preacher here the word declare  
Untruly to the people, but often leaving it, doth square  
And spend the time about complaints and railing openly  
If any have defamed him, or have not worthily  
Him honoured. If any have their tithes not duly brought.  
In fine what wrong or injury against the man is wrought:  
The Pulpit straightways rings thereof, and all the Church doth sound  
Of railings, and of spiteful words, his chief and greatest ground.  
Among them some there are that to the people do foretell,  
If spring-time, Summer, Harvest, or the Winter happen well:  
What store of Wheat shall be, and of the other courser grain,  
How Mast shall prove, and how the Vine shall yield her fruit again.  
Besides of wars and sicknesses, of plagues and other gear  
They tell, to which the people give a more attentive ear  
By much, then if he there should speak of Christ or godliness,  
Of faith, good works, or of the law, and perfit holiness.  
Some tell again the Turks affairs, or of the Emp●ours wars,  
Of Spain, of France, of Venice, or of lusty Myllanarres.  
And fill the people's ears with this, till time be finished,  
But most when of the Gospel they ill favouredly have read.  
Some part where of their duty were to see the people taught,  
And to expound it openly: then in the dead are brought,  
And beadroll long recited is, of every bodies name  
For which they are paid, supposing thus to scape the feigned flame.  
Lo this their doctrine is, and this is all the care they have,  
In serving of th'almighty Lord, whose service they deprave.  
Then out of hand to Mass they go, and dine in heathenish wise,  
That is not having faith, content with old accustomed guise.  
When dinners done, to th'alehouse straight they go as merry as Pies,  
And tipple with their neighbours there, or else some sport devyes.  
To pass the time with Cards and dice, or with some wanton talk,  
Whereas a note above them all, their tongue doth always walk.  
These also should dispatch their hours and service orderly,  
Which they let pass, except they see some worthy company▪  
Abroad into the fields they walk themselves for to disport,  
And view the corn or hear some tales, to make the time more short.  
And lest the nights should seem to long, each one at home doth keep,  
A pleasant Dame that in his arms all night doth sweetly sleep.  
Lo thus they spend their time, and on this sort do always live.  
The holy Ghost unto th'elect true godliness must give.  
And even in their dying hour must Christ to them disclose,  
The mean that sa●de our father's long ago as I suppose:  
Whereby they wondrously escaped the darkness that was then:  
For surely none shall saved be, by means of these same men.  

Monks.  Tell on good Muses for the swarms of Monks do yet remain,  
And not the meanest members of this same most holy reign.  
These men forsaking clean the world, and loathing all things hear  
Attire themselves in strange array, and certain colours wear.  
And frame themselves a rule to live, and follow everichone,  
As if so be the rule of Christ sufficed not alone.  
And with their threefold solemn ●owes 〈◊〉 the towns they go,  
Or to some desert place 〈…〉 of 〈◊〉 people tho.  
And by their proper force they think unto the Skies to climb,  
And scape the everlasting chains of death for deadly crime.  
Whereby they show the wickedness that in their heart doth lie,  
And how they weigh not Christ nor yet his famous victory.  
Moreover to their own good works they arrogantly cleave,  
And of their merits great they vaunt the people to deceive.  
And notably they have deceived, not only simple men,  
With their hypocrisy, but also kings, persuading them  
To buy their merits and deserts of price and value great,  
And how they should be sure to save their souls, and have a seat  
Above the Stars, if they would build them gorgeous houses hie,  
And give them lands to feed their paunch, and fat themselves, whereby  
They might consume their days and spend their life at ease, and well,  
And strive the Dormowses themselves in sleeping to excel.  
For what thing else do they regard, or ever do apply?  
The little children in the streets these things can testify.  
They vaunt how that they worship God, and service daily sing,  
And how they pray and often fast (an acceptable thing.)  
Who doth not wonder at these things, and at these travails told,  
And think them worthy of such wealth and Dukedoms here to hold.  
As many kings have given them, and Dukes in elder days?  
A goodly kind of worship sure, and much deserving praise.  
While as they chant up Psalms aloud, whereof they have no skill,  
And pray with lips and not with heart, and Church with noises fill.  
Nor other men's afflictions now they way that thus have sped,  
Who will suppose that they can care that thus in dreams are dead?  
Therefore they are no prayers at all, but voices lewd and vain,  
As when the hungry hogs do grunt that in the s●ie remain.  
But often do they fast, and flesh and whitmeates bothforbeare,  
So always used to dainty fair, they count it fasting hear.  
If that two meals they do not eat the shortest days that be,  
And be not served at supper with the daintiest meats they see.  
Such monstrous dinners do they make, that fullness doth compel,  
Their girdles for to let at large while as their bellies swell,  
Like Horseleeches or loathsome Tickes, that swell with filthy blood,  
Great fishes do they hear devour, who can prepare so good  
A meal of flesh, or will desire with eggs for to be fed,  
While as the Table with such store of fish is furnished?  
Besides with pleasant Wines they fill themselves, and qua●●e amain,  
Till read about the gillss they look, and belch it up again.  
That this may fasting called be, both Milo will deny,  
And eke Apitius, he that was the Prince of gluttony,  
And all the Catian school, and eke the troop of jews beside,  
And of the very Turks themselves, it will be sure denied.  
These men yet with hypocrisy, and cloak of holiness,  
Have brought the people, Kings, and Dukes, unto such foolishness,  
That they supposed them chaste and good, and far from worldly men  
In all their deeds, and bought good works, and heaven eke of them.  
O strong illusions, and deceits, O miserable tide,  
That brought these men, as if there were not ills enough beside.  
But wherefore should they leave the world, and fly from company,  
And hide themselves in Forests thus, and in the deserts lie?  
Because it is corrupted quite, and bend to wicked lore?  
Who doth deny? But therefore hath it need a great deal more  
To have Physicians still at hand, that good and faithful be,  
And able are for every sore to give a remedy.  
And not such fellows as will run away for loathsomeness:  
And shaken with the fever, leave his patient in distress.  
In darkness lives? Moore needeth it the light of holy men,  
As Christ sometime did lighten it, and his Disciples then.  
Or do they think that they shall stain their life with company,  
Where they may lead a Godly life, and well themselves apply?  
No flight can this procure, but faith and virtuous patient mind,  
That can resist the raging storms of any blustering wind.  
Daniel that dwelled at Babylon, and many jews beside,  
Whose minds were always godly bent, and faithful often were tried,  
Amidst the Gentiles godly lived, and served God arightes:  
So Loth did likewise lead his life among the Sodomites.  
And joseph ruled Egypt well, observing every jot  
Of Moses' law, and chastened kept his mind from any spot.  
For if they altar not their minds, that over Seas do run,  
No woods nor wilderness shall 'cause this same for to be done.  
But rather shall they more infect, and worse much shall stain  
The minds of men addicted thus, to fond traditions vain.  
The spirit there oppressed is, ne can they lift their eyes  
Aloft to view the way that leads directly to the skies.  
Besides more worldly minds they have, and of more wanton cheer,  
Than worldly men. Naught in the world is done, but Monks are there.  
If that the Counsel for the common wealth assembled be,  
They are present there, and give out laws by their authority.  
In wars they be, on Prince's camps they evermore attend,  
And towns of force and Castles strong, with weapons they defend:  
If any wedding great be had, they are present still at hand,  
If any Church be dedicated, they present there do stand.  
Then hath the Comedy all her parts. What should I here recite  
Their riot, pomp, and passing pride, and all their fond delight,  
Which doth declare their wicked mind? what helps their strange array,  
And crown shorn down unto their ears, and houses from the way?  
Since that of Monks the world may learn, a worldly life to frame,  
And so is forced, and hath no means for to eschew the same.  
It gladly would, and seeketh often, of them for to be rid,  
But fast as Burrs to wool they stick, or Sowtars wax in third.  
If they themselves would shun the world, & far from thence would fly,  
And in the frozen Northern parts, would altogether lie,  
A better thing to please the world, they never could invent,  
Nor any thing devise that would the people more content.  
But now regard their threefold vows, how ill they do● agree,  
And in their life how lewdly they unmeet observed be.  
They vow t'obbay their Abbot, or their Prior placed high,  
Which Abbot if he virtuous be, and godliness apply,  
(As seldom haps) and do command such things as God doth will,  
Why should he not obeyed be, and had in honour still?  
We all are bound that at the Font receive our Christendom,  
To hear such men as truly teach the trade of life to come.  
Not vows we need, or shaven crowns such men for to obey,  
Nor for to change our clothing here, to strange and fond array.  
But if he neither godly be, nor godliness do teach,  
But foolish fancies of his own, and man's decrees do preach:  
Then is it sure a wickedness, to vow or to obey.  
Such as in bondage bring the heart, and teach to run astray.  
Their whole religion doth consist in singing day and night,  
In rules of life and sundry laws and gestures fond and light.  
As if that God such worship liked, devised by mortal brain,  
Or rather had not plainly taught that all such stuff is vain.  
But wherefore stand I hereupon, and words in vain bestow?  
Since all the popish kingdom here no better things do know?  
All men are bound to chastity, but for to shun the state  
Of blessed marriage, and the bed that is immaculate,  
We then shall be of force when as no lust in us doth reign,  
And when no raging heat of flesh, doth force our feeble brain.  
But now how chaste they live, the boys in every street can tell,  
And Citizens are sore afraid, when near to them they devil.  
What should I other things declare, that honest ears and chaste,  
Can not abide to hear, nor of such loathsome things to taste?  
Why boast they so of poverty, doth virtue herein lie?  
Can none but poor men godly live, and up to heaven fly?  
When as the poor man hath as many lets in living well,  
As hath the richest man alive, that others do excel.  
But poverty they foully scorn, and shamefully deride,  
Aswell in Lordly fare, as in their pomp and passing pride.  
And in their vows and wicked life, they plainly do express,  
That neither God nor man they weigh, nor any virtuousness.  
What if I should their sundry sorts the better this to see,  
Unknown to men 'tis infinite, and eke a vanity.  
So many sundry sects there are, that differ only hear  
In rules, and ceremonies fond, and wearing of their gear.  
In this they all do jump agree, their Popish trifles vain,  
And rules of him that first devised in order them to train.  
To set before the will of Christ and through their own deserts,  
They think to scape the pit of hell, and all those painful smarts.  
But presently I will divide them altogether here,  
Into two only sorts, that so they plainly may appear.  

Rich Monks.  To such as rich and wealthy are, and such as beggars be,  
Appointed by their rules to beg, and by the Pope's decree.  
Those wealthy are, whom long ago some mighty Prince's hands,  
Or Noble man hath granted here, revenues great, and lands,  
Large fields, with meadows fair, & towns, & parks, & purlieus large,  
With vineyards great, and villages, and Castles strong of charge,  
And Earldoms oftentimes for them did carefully provide,  
And gave them lordly liberties, and Dukedoms whole beside,  
That throw their prayers & lewd deserts, they might their soul's relieve  
And purge themselves of every crime, that did their conscience grieve.  
That for these same these gifts were given, and this was all their care,  
The grants of Dukes, and Princes great, at this day do declare.  
Persuaded were they that the bliss, and joys of heaven high,  
In merits of this Monkish sort, and Popish power did lie.  
This madness long ago possessed the world when as did sit,  
Amidst the Church proud Antichrist, and ruled and governed it.  
What need these Monks such riches great? themselves to punish here  
With fasting often and penury, and simple slender cheer?  
And to attain humility, in mind and outward show,  
Still mourning (as they boast) the sins, that in the world do flow?  
Far otherwise falls out the case, their Founders should have known,  
They punish here their flesh until with fat they are overgrown,  
Whereto their feigned fastings tend, none hath more merry mind,  
Than have these same, nor prouder shalt thou any people find.  
The pleasures of the world, they all did hunt and seek alway,  
For look where any valleys was, where goodly meadows say,  
Through which some pleasant River ran, or goodly stream did pass  
That stoarde with divers dainty fish, and full of Crevice was,  
Encompassed round about with woods, and fruitful hills beside,  
Whereas they vineyards great might have, or store of corn provide,  
Here commonly they placed themselves. What man so much doth rave,  
As would in smoky Cities devil, and may such pleasures have?  
Yet these they desert places called, whereas in pains and strife,  
These poor afflicted fathers purged th'offences of their life.  
Besides in houses fair they might, with any Prince compare,  
Whose lofty walls with largest motes, encompassed always aware  
With parks, and pleasant chases fair, adjoining to the same,  
Empaled and trenched round about, and stored well with game.  
There stands the stately Towers aloft, and dreadful shot within,  
Or decked with curious furniture to feast and banquet in.  
In every place the Counduites run, within continually,  
And gardens here with pleasant herbs, and flowers furnished lie.  
With cloisters square, and arbours that procure a pleasant shade.  
In fine it seems a paradise, such as th'almighty made,  
Great herds of cattle they possess, and servants many one,  
And officers of high degree, attending them upon.  
Great store of ponds abroad they have, that commonly they may,  
Suffice to furnish out with fish, their tables every day,  
Not far removed from their walls, their pleasant Orchards be,  
Such as do pass and far surmount, all others in degree.  
Thus hunt they after worldly joys, and after pleasure's fish  
And have obtained each sweet delight, that earthly men can wish.  
Of sleep they also have their fill, aswell by day as night,  
Yea in the day time are they wild to sleep and rest their sprite.  
Jest to much watching dry them up, and paleness stain their face,  
And lest their bodies do decay, and loose their lusty grace.  
But here a matter great they make, at midnight that they rise,  
To mumble up their Psalms and prayers, with senseless ears & eyes  
Not weighing what a sort of men, that poor and needy be,  
Do labour all the day long in the heat with misery,  
And in the night can take no rest, for children there that lie,  
And fill their ears with wrawling all the night, and tedious cry.  
Their books they naught regard at all, yet learning still and schools,  
Are worthily committed to these gross and doltish fools.  

abbots.  The order of saint Benet and Cistercian company,  
Have evermore an Abbot great, who setting nothing by  
The life and title of a Monk, their order doth detest,  
And better likes the head to be, and Prince of all the rest.  
And sure in pomp and lofty look, he is not far behind  
The worldly Prince, reserving this, yet secret still in mind:  
That far beyond them doth he go, in lecherous delight,  
For maidens young he doth deflower, and spendeth all the night,  
In wanton dances plays and sports, with quaffing and excess,  
And haunteth always company, addict to idleness.  
A mad and loathsome sight it is, the shapes that disagree.  
To join in one, and knit together things that differing be.  
As if the head of dog or Bull upon a sheep did stand,  
So ill agrees together knit a Monk and Prince in hand.  
And sure I muse and wonder much, the world could ever bear,  
To see so foul a monster as this same misshaped hear.  
But wonders always likes the world, and nothing can be wrought,  
So foolishly nor any thing, so wicked can be brought,  
But that the world will it esteem, and wonder for to see,  
Wherefore let it enjoy them still, and worship them for me.  
I to my matter will return: this Abbot evermore,  
With weapons fears his neighbours next, and battles fierce & sore  
He often gives, and doth rejoice, great tumults still to see,  
No lowly thing he doth desire, speak, do, or yet decree.  
But look what that he takes in hand, he rageth at the same,  
As Cacus breathing out the sparks of fires and fiery flame.  
What rule of Benet teacheth this? I surely think, because  
That Benet did forbidden his flock by straight and curious laws,  
That on the Bible none of them should read, or scripture know,  
Whence seed of heresy doth spring, and errors all do grow.  
Lest they should slothful be, or spend their life in idleness,  
Amid their lofty swelling state, and wonderful excess.  
Their greedy hands and minds they whole applied to worldly things,  
Whereof they shortly had such skill, that they like Dukes and Kings,  
Provided laws for common weals, and civil statutes made,  
Lo, in this sort they shonde the world, and fled from worldly trade,  
And got themselves to wilderness, where only they took pain,  
To serve the Lord continually, and heaven for to gain.  
But shaven crowns here needed not, nor greasy Cowls beside,  
Since that the world did never want sufficient men to guide.  
Their practices and all their pranks, of their unruly rain,  
Their manors, virtues, and their life, in every place are plain.  
All things are lawful unto them, and are dispensed withal,  
So thou believest not on Christ, nor on his name dost call.  
But now the begging sort of sundry names and orders vain, 
Mendicanter.   
In towns and Cities always devil, as lieth for their gain.  
Where first by begging they have built, them sumptuous houses strong,  
Well furnished of every thing, that thereto doth belong,  
That thou wouldst marvel how these beggars purses, empty still,  
Can in so few years build such nests, and get such things at william.  
But with their often fasting still, they wrought this subtle sleight,  
With daily prayers, service long, and merits great of weight.  
The newness of their sect confirmed, did stand them ay in stead,  
Their gesture strange, hypocrisy, and ducking with the head:  
Their earnestness in teaching still, and deep dissembling cheer,  
Their eloquence, and filled tongue, and gravity severe:  
That men did think each thing was well bestowed, and happily,  
That given was unto so good and holy company.  
Besides their common merchandise, their fraud, and falsehood great,  
Did help them well, they promised in heaven happy seat,  
And part of all their merits here, to such as willing were,  
To help them here with any thing, their order to prefer.  
This brought the fish a pace to net, this poison baited hook,  
Made gifts come in, beguiled a number, and most of them they took.  
By this such buildings brave they made, in every town almost,  
By this such goodly furniture they had in every cost,  
From this proceeds their princely fare, for fasters far unmeet:  
They trusting to this merchandise, do swarm in every street,  
And house by house abroad they run, with bold and shameless face,  
And beg, but chiefly in the town doth stand their greatest grace.  
No marriage is solemnized, nor great assembly had,  
No feast is made in any place, but straight these beggars mad  
With Boxes stand about the board, and impudently than,  
They crave and ask, like loathsome flies molesting every man.  
At supper none in quiet sits, nor can their dinner take,  
But in they come, and both their hands and ears they weary make.  
When holy times of fasting fall, and people feared be,  
With bitter laws and threatened sore, with sharp and sour decree,  
Than they continually do vaunt, of fasting and deserts,  
And of their prayers that proceeds from hot and holy hearts.  
Then rolling in comes all the gains, of such as do not fast,  
Nor change one whit their former life, nor sinful usage past.  
These buy the measure great of all their merits everichone,  
Supposing that the Lord above will never look upon  
Their wickedness, but favour them, and all their faults forgive,  
If that they sand the friars wine, and store of saltfish give:  
Or feed them often with dainty meats, or costly dinners make,  
Such as the Priests of Mars were wont continually to take.  
Besides in wealthy villages, they find a wondrous gain,  
Where cheese and flax, and roots they get, and every kind of grain.  
With pork, and puddings, sauce and brawn, and bacon flitches great,  
Which who denies is threatened with, Saint Antony's raging heat.  
And more to poll the simple sort, and to beguile withal,  
They needles, points, and glasses give, and other trifles small.  
These things although unhonest they, and lewd and filthy be,  
Yet count they them for virtues great, and signs of sanctity.  
Such wickedness the Papacy, doth evermore esteem,  
And makes of every Devil God, contrarily to seem.  
And Devils eke of God they make, as every fool may see,  
In all their doctrine faith and rites, what ever they decree.  
But yet above the rest I do the wisest count those same,  
That begging round about the world with title fair and name,  
Have grown in little time to wealth, and treasures infinite,  
Have purchased vineyards, lands, and rents, and houses fair in fight.  
With granges great, and pleasant Farms, & droves of cattle store,  
That now no need they have to beg, nor ask for any more.  
Yea loath they are to have the names of beggars in degree.  
So abbey lubber like they live, and Lords they called be,  
The earnest zeal of making wars upon the Turkish sect,  
And care of looking unto those, whom sickness did infect,  
Was favorde first of Germans much, who made Collections great,  
Whereby they well in every place, might exercise this feat.  
What would you more? all men to this with willing hearts did pay.  
Now when the treasure gathered was, the sick neglected lay.  
And no provision did they make, nor any means invent:  
For to relieve th'afflicted sort, whom sickness did torment.  
If wars were to be made upon the Turks at any time,  
Their pillows soft they lift not leave, nor slothful life resign.  
So did the rest whose names in verse, cannot be all expreast,  
So hath this wretched kind of men in little time increased.  
But worse now by much are those, who though they wealthy be,  
And lands and riches great possess, like Princes in degree.  
Yet leave they not their custom old, to beg in every place:  
So sweet a thing doth begging seem, and of so goodly grace.  
There be such as their orders doth continually constrain,  
To beg abroad: and such as still in poverty remain.  
Who neither lands nor living have, of all the rest the worst,  
And such as are more troublesome, of every man accursed.  
With these the Pope hath much dispensed, when once he understood,  
They were for his commodity, and for his purpose good,  
By whom he might in every Realm, be highly had in price,  
And utter all his wicked wares, and filthy ambergris:  
And surely herein have they seemed, full thankful for to be,  
As chief maintainers of his state, and princely dignity.  
For all his doctrine have they learned, and faith at fingers ends,  
And whatsoever likes the Pope, each one of them defends.  
Nor for this kingdom sweet they any lies refuse to feign,  
And so they may the same advance, no labour great nor pain.  
By land and seas abroad they roam, and here and there do fly,  
To houses great of noble men, and mighty Princes high.  
In every place they suffered are to preach and teach about,  
And Bishops none doth them forbidden, nor person keeps them out,  
Whereby they may their kingdom much, enlarge and amplify,  
According to their earnest zeal, and daily industry.  
For why they see that underneath their shadow they are fed,  
And that their state by means of them, is well established.  
They see while as the Papacy, doth spring and flourish here,  
Their order ever shall increase, and happy life appear.  
And contrary all things decay, and starving straight at hand,  
If that his holiness should slip, or not uprightly stand.  
Therefore both for themselves and for the Pope with tooth and nail,  
They toil & moil lest that his state, by talk of tongue should quail.  
Therefore the inquisition is, to them alone assigned,  
For to inquire of heresies, in every case and kind.  
Among the which the greatest and of danger most of all,  
Are those which presently do seem, for to procure their fall  
If any man deny the Pope, for to be supreme head,  
And chiefest guider of the church, by Christ established:  
If any say that man cannot by work deserve the skies,  
And everlasting life, but that in Christ it only lies,  
Or if that any man affirm, the polshorne sort to be,  
A hurtful kind of weed and plant of no commodity,  
That only doth deceive the world, with toys, and trifles deign,  
And manifest hypocrisy, of troth the enemies plain:  
Like dogs in raging mood on such, with bloody mouth they fall,  
And vex and persecute them still, in bands and prison thrall.  
And if at length they will not turn, they cast them into flame,  
The rabble all of Popish rout rejoicing at the same.  
And whom they cannot handle thus, nor deal so ill withal,  
At them with hateful tongue they hiss, and currishly do bawl,  
And with unlearned foolish books, and slanderous do they bite,  
And think to make them hateful in the common people's site.  
These men if that they strove for Christ, they would not beg at all,  
Ne should such ignorance of truth, upon the people fall.  
But with the Popish kingdom truth can never well agree,  
Of falsehood it is framed, and without falsehood cannot be.  
Wherefore it deadly hates all those, that mutter here of Christ,  
And seek by truth to please the Lord, and to content the highest.  
And useth these as instruments, the knowledge to oppress  
Of Christ: and for to drive away all perfit godliness.  
And not alonely in this case, this kingdom they maintain:  
Not Primate, Prince, nor king there is, but one of this same train.  
He to his ghostly father takes, to whom he doth confess,  
The secrets of his heart, and all his sins and wickedness.  
The which for sundry ends is to this kingdom profitable,  
For by this practice, and these means, he evermore is able  
To train the Primates as him list, but chiefly to defend,  
The Popish sea, and to resist, all such as do contend.  
Who if they stackering chance to stand, and wavering doubtfully:  
Then with their sins they fear them sore, and pardon do deny.  
Then which no thing more dreadful is, nor hurtful to the blind,  
By this besides his holiness doth understand the mind  
And purposes of every Prince, that hereby speedily  
He may prevent each great mishap, if aught should run awry.  
Besides if that the Pope would feign, have money in some place,  
Or any lusty Cardinal, or Bishops Lordly grace:  
That may not well redeem his Pall, the pardons out be sent,  
And these be they that chiefly serve, to further his intent.  
Nor in the world there liveth not, a kind of men more meet,  
To work deceits and to bring in, both Gold and silver sweet.  
Like Bulls they roar and void of shame, they utter falsehoods vain,  
And boldly strive, and Satan up, they lift to Stars again.  
Of Flies they able are to make, great Eliphants in sight,  
And popish state for to advance, above the heavens bright.  
I think there are no kind of men, that profitabler be,  
Or more in use, for to advance the Pope's authority.  
By them the common people have, believed such shameful lies,  
And have bestowed their goods, and all their wealth on vanities:  
Supposing heaven for to buy, and holy men's deserts,  
And everlasting life to have, allotted to their parts.  
The others well enriched with spoil, do laugh and get them hence,  
And to their Lords with praise do bring, their Caskets stuffed with pence.  
I here declare not all their deeds, nor their devices lewd:  
What shameless shifts they here have made, what filthy life they showed:  
What fowl example here they gave, of life abominable,  
So that it even did offend themselves the Roomish rabble.  
That nothing (may be said) there is, but Cowls dare take in hand:  
If in their fancy once it come, or with their mind do stand.  
I row with light and slender Oars, and not with raging wind,  
Nor for to cleanse the dirty sink, of Augae is my mind.  
Yet here thou hast a little show, of all this Empire great,  
And seest the members chief that do, belong to Popish seat.  
Whereby thou wisely mayest discern, the others all that be,  
For both in life and faith they all, do wondrously agree.  
So that I am sure thou shalt not find amongst them any thing,  
That doth beseem the flock of Christ, or may to virtue bring.  
But strong illusions and deceits, and every cursed kind  
Of covetousness, with careless life, and bloody beastly mind.  
And pomp, and pleasures great with pride, and superstitions vain,  
And fond attire, with idleness, the Princess of their reign.  
That where the word of God doth reign, and Christ is clearly taught▪  
These people daily do decrease, and shortly come to nought.  
And both the beggars, and the rich, are forced hence to fly,  
As pestilences to the saith, and springes of Heresy.  
As slothful paunches great, unto the earth a thriftless load,  
Whom long agone did Italy send out in coasts abroad.  
And spewed them into Germany, as mother of all ill,  
And such her madness is, that she new sects inventeth still.  
For lately sent she certain out, of jesus bearing name,  
Called for belike of lusty Lords, that lykde the popish game.  
That with the name of such renown, they easily might deceive,  
The rude and simple people, that are soon procured to cleave.  
As though they sought the honour here of Christ, and worship best  
The imps of Satan, are they sure, no better than the rest.  
For all against our Saviour Christ, are sworn assuredly,  
Both Monks and shaven Sophisters, the superstitious Frie.  
For favour and good will, that they do bear unto the Pope,  
So that of any goodness here, in them there is no hope.  
These here and there run up and down, with double diligence,  
To benefit the Devil, and the Pope: and with pretence  
For to suppress the Gospel here of Christ, and eke his name,  
That lately drawn from darkness great, abroad doth freshly flame.  
But Christ shall shortly them suppress, with all the rifra●●e here,  
His enemies with Majesty, when as he shall appear.  
Now as they something special have, so have they eke again,  
A number that are common all among this greasy train. 
Common things.   
By which they covet to be known, and others to excel,  
With Heathenish ambition, wherewith as yet they swell.  
From which they neither can be drawn, by scorn of people made,  
Nor any séemelynesse of state, nor comeliness of trade.  
And first their crowns are shaven all as longeth to their gree,  
And look as more religious and holier they be,  
So brother do they shave their crowns, almost unto their ears,  
That scarce an ynchebrode hoop of hear, about their pate appears.  
This fancy fond no Jews them taught, nor yet is published:  
What foolish people in the world would thus deform their head,  
And unconstrainde, the beauty spoil, that comes of nature so:  
Nor think it fair with shaven scence, amongst th'unsha●de to go.  
Sure no man ever saw the founders of our faith so shorn,  
Not such thing they commanded here, so full of shame and scorn.  
The slothful sort long after them, found out this foolish guise,  
And idleness, as all the rest, this mischief did devise.  
But yet I marvel much, that they are not ashamed hereat,  
And how they dare in company, put of their cap or hat.  
But hie and holy mysteries they say are signifide,  
And thus they seek a filthy thing with honest cloak to hide.  
Themselves they count as kings to be, of passing great renown,  
And thus to show their dignity, they wear a shaven crown.  
What dreams will not these dolts devise, that dare in open sight,  
Such things affirm? but still to mock the world they had delight.  
They also all anointed are, even from the Parson small,  

Anointed.  And poorest Priest, unto the best that rules and governs all.  
Observing still the jewish law and rites determined,  
That by the Testament of Christ are quite abolished.  
But all things that they did, were then commanded to be done:  
As figures for to testify that Christ should shortly come.  
These use their own authority, as pleaseth best their mind.  
As if that Christ were not yet come, or chiefest priest assigned.  
Thus do they all anoint themselves, and all their company,  
Both when they take their Christendom, and at the time they die  
Anointed are the Church's walls, and altars oiled lie,  
And eke the brazen Bells that bray aloft in steeple high.  
They also Princes do anoint, when that they crowned are,  
And Moses' people plain they be, and yet from Moses far.  
Without commandment of God, or Christ's commission plain,  
In every thing they follow still the fancies of their brain.  
Which afterwards reputed are for holy things and great,  
Whereby in estimation more may grow the popish seat.  
Besides Egyptian like they all in Surplice white do go,  
Or like the jewish Priests, 
Surplice wearies.  that were by law commanded so  
To wear a linen Ephod on, so do they always wear,  
A linen vesture wondrous white, and pleated here and there.  
Without the which, they never do into the Pulpit come,  
Nor service say, nor any thing that in the Church is done.  
The same also they do command the Parish Clerks to wear,  
And every schoolmaster must be apparelde with this gear.  
And every scholar young, that first doth enter into schools:  
Thus are the people dolted still, and fools are made of fools.  
For whereto serves the Surplice here? it neither keeps out cold,  
Nor hath th'apostles warrant sure, nor Christ's with it to hold.  
Nor worn hath any comeliness, but rather doth disguise:  
As if a lay man clad therewith, before the people's eyes  
Should travail by the way, he should be scorned or beaten ill,  
Or for a mad man bound in Chains, and broken of his will.  
But here I muse that Monks do not, this linen garment try,  
But this I take to be the cause, that Monks sufficiently  
Are laughed at for their fond array, and fowl enough they be,  
Whereby they from the common sort do aptly disagree.  
Or that their clotheses more holy are, than any others worn,  
And black is meeter far than white, for such as seem to morn.  
In garments long they also use appareled to go,  
And beardless all to women changed, the Pope commandeth so.  
With burdens of the common wealth, they are not touched beside, 
Immunities.   
For Princes long ago for them, did in this case provide.  
They pay no tribute nor no task, nor any penalties,  
Nor troubled are with any toils, or common miseries.  
They subject only are unto the Pope, and to his law,  
And as for civil or common laws, they weigh them not a straw,  
Except they on their side do make, and stand them well in stead,  
Whereby they may attain the thing that they determined.  
They freely live and counted are the holiest men that be,  
Nor good it is to harm them here, in word or any 'gree,  
If any of them by deadly wound do happen to be slain,  
O Lord how great a crime it is, and what a loss again?  
Both Mass and Matins than do cease, and Church doors fast are shut  
And song and Organs laid aside, and Bells to silence put.  
Great mourning made till suffered have the graceless murderer,  
So much they way themselves, and of revengement careful are.  
But if he happen for to scape, and by that means do live,  
They smite him down with dreadful curse, and to the devil him give.  
And bind his soul in fearful bands, secluded quite from bliss,  
And none (except the Pope alone) can him absolve from this.  
Thus have they brought men in such fear, that they themselves always,  
May boldly quarrel first begin, and brawling bloody frays.  
If they themselves do kill a man, the matter is but small,  
And may be easily overpast, and safely dealt withal.  
The judge dare touch no shaven crown, nor give them punishment,  
What crime soever they commit, or mischief do invent.  
First are they to their Bishop sent, and after certain days,  
To Rome until forgetfulness the enemies rage alleys.  
Then of their murder cheerly quit, they homeward boldly go,  
Not fearing laws of any Realm, nor forcing any so.  
The young sir john but newly shorn, that lately orders took,  
Doth vaunt to scape the judges hands, and from the hangman's hook.  
And not in vain: for unto them that thus anointed be,  
Above the rest is granted sure, a wondrous liberty.  
They may do whatsoever they list, and what they will invent,  
Such things as neither countryman, nor stranger dare attempt,  
For civil laws they do not fear, nor any penalty,  
Their Bishop is their gentle judge, and keeps them tenderly.  
Great volumes have they writ, that of these liberties entreat,  
And term them Cannon laws, under whose shadows wide & great  
They safely rout, and pleasantly do take their quiet rest,  
And void of danger every where, do what them liketh best.  
This every Emperor is constrained, for to confirm before  
He take his Crown: and sworn for to defend them evermore.  
And is not this a happy kind of people? such a one,  
As like to them in all the world, there liveth others none.  
Moreover all of marriage shun the sacred state as ill,  
The Pope commanding them against God's heavenly word & will.  
For Paul being taught the secrets of the skies: determined,  
Whereby such heat might be aswagde, and whoredom banished, 
Single life. D. 27. Presb. D. 28. Ass. D. 31. Si Laicus. Sacerdotibus.   
That every man should have his wife, and women husbands all,  
Permitting only single life, to those whom God did call,  
And by his special gift exempt, from common law and state.  
But whether popish Priests are here exempt, let him that late  
Came from the new found Islands doubt, for here with us 'tis rife,  
And known as well to young as old, the chasteness of their life.  
How ill they can themselves refrain, and eke how every where,  
Nothing can be in safety kept, from their unruly gear.  
For either with men's wives they lie, or else at home they keep.  
Their harlots all at liberty, with whom they safely sleep.  
Or have some in their neighbours house, or while abroad they roam,  
Take tag and rag as comes to hand, as easily as at home.  
That lust may have her full delight, thus fill they every place,  
wheresoever they come with Bastards, and with children voided of grace.  
Not lay man hath this privilege, nor lusty liberty.  
And surely well, they are compelled to live in honesty:  
And use the undefiled bed, as God doth plainly william.  
Thus only live in filthiness the popish members still,  
And only granted are to them, their whores at liberty,  
And every other kind of vice, and vile iniquity.  
Which all their sect doth well allow, and counts them commendable,  
And better like them with this life, and deeds abominable:  
Then if they changed from this trade, and came to better life,  
And follow Gods commandments, in taking of a wife.  
Yea such they cruelly do hate, and slander wickedly,  
With hateful words of great reproach, and spiteful infamy.  
And if they can deprive them of their living and their grace.  
And drive them poor and naked out, into some foreign place.  
That not enough thou canst not muse, to see their crooked mind,  
And judgement all enraged, whereby against both rule and kind  
Of nature, and against the just precepts of reasons lore,  
And all the common ordnaunces, that have been made therefore.  
And eke against the customs of all Nations that we know,  
They do commend adulterous life, and marriage overthrow.  
If some there be that always praise, and like their loathsome trade,  
Why should they not attempt whatsoever their lust doth them persuade?  
Thus in their filthy lives they do continued to the end,  
And altar not, nor any seeks their doings to amend.  
They had rather all be torn and rend, than leave their wonted guise,  
The Bishop also winks for gain, nor hope of help he spies.  

Covetous  And more besides is Avarice, a sickness general,  
Beginning first at head: and so dispersed through them all.  
They are themselves for to be sold, whosoever is bend to buy,  
And all things that they have besides, to sale doth open lie.  
Give money thou, and strait the Gates of heaven open be,  
And eke as many souls drawn out of hell as pleaseth thee.  
Give money, and from all thy faults and sins thou shalt be free,  
And all made well, and with their Bull it shall confirmed be.  
Give money, and for thine estate they pray continually,  
And fast, till as all overgrown in fat they wallowing lie.  
Give money, and their merits great, to thee they straight will cell,  
So that thou needest take no care at all for living well.  
Give money, and they give thee leave to marry at thy will  
In times unlawful, and to hop about with jacke and Gill.  
Give money, and they licence give, both eggs and flesh to eat,  
As well on fridays as in Lent, and every kind of meat.  
Give money, and thy child shall soon receive his christian vow,  
And after that be bishopped and nointed on the brow.  
Give money, and thou shalt receive of Christ the body true,  
Even as it hung upon the Cross, when as he suffered nue.  
Give money, nose, and eyes, and ears, shall then be nointed well,  
And mouth, and hand, and foot, and all anointed sent to hell.  
Give money, and thy Tomb amid the Church shall placed be,  
Or in the queer, so that no rain or wet shall trouble thee.  
Give money then, and store of Psalms and Dirges shalt thou have,  
And eke with great lamenting shall thy corpse be borne to grave.  
Give money, and thou shalt be blest, with store of Trentals song,  
And yearly in remembrance had, with Soul peals duly rung.  
Give money, and upon thy Tomb a princely hearse they set,  
Still smo●t with Frankincense, and all with holy water wet.  
Give money, and of all thy vows discharged shalt thou be,  
And eke with God's commandments they shall dispense for thee.  
All things for money will they do, yet never satisfied,  
For divers Masses are they feed, yet one shall serve the tide.  
Sometime a thousand underneath the Chalice do they lay,  
receiving money for them all, yet never a one they say.  
Nor careful of their guile they are, the people they despise,  
And all the means they can to scrape up gold they do devise.  
They divers benefices get, and serve the turn of none:  
But only set their mind on gain, and idleness alone.  
Both gins, and traps, and baits and hooks, they lay on every side,  
And present are at sick men's wills, some portion to provide.  
Besides for tithes and offering pence, they earnestly do call.  
These are the things that common are unto these members all.  
judge now thyself, if that they be the Church of Christ, that so  
They seek to seem, and feign would have themselves accounted tho.  
Attempt they any kind of thing, that Christian rule doth teach?  
Tread they the ancient father's steps whereof so much they preach?  
All things contrary shalt thou see, their pomp and fond array,  
Their Apish Cowls and strange attire, and beards cut quite away.  
Their shaven crowns, their mourning gowns, their bedlam gesture mad,  
Their Mitars, & their Cros●ars gilded, square caps & music glad.  
Their holy Chrism, contempt of laws, and life corrupted so,  
And all the rest that idleness invented long ago:  
As plagues to perfit godliness, and toys the world to daze,  
That so the people still might have something whereat to gaze.  
Whereby the ground of superstition from these gay things might grow,  
For seldom doth the common sort, the truth from falsehood know.  
Nor try the doctrine and the life by scriptures perfit light,  
And rules of Prophets old, that were inspired with holy sprite.  
The things that gorgeous are and gay, as holy they esteem,  
And ever more do loath the things that plain and simple seem.  
Hereby the Popes had easy way, while as they only sought,  
To have their doings of the people great and wondrous thought.  
If they had sought the honour here, and glory of Christ alone,  
As best becomes his ministers, and servants every one,  
They simply would have taught the flock, and used no colours vain,  
And lived according to the laws of God, and statutes plain.  
Now have the people better skill, of Pope's decrees and lies,  
Than of his holy ordnaunces, that framed the lofty skies,  
And will not way their own estate, and miserable case,  
But stop their ears if any speak, and turn away their face.  
And rather altogether be deceived and run awry,  
And everlastingly be damned in hell for company.   

The popish Kingdom The third book.  
NOw must we here behold their faith, and how the papacy  
believes, because of faith it would a Captain counted be.  
And of the Catholic Church alone, of Christ to have the fame,  
And wondrously they boast and brag, in bearing of this name.  
Which Church if that it were in deed, and doctrine as they say,  
Great wickedness it surely were, from them to fall away.  
But if it may be plainly proved, they trust no whit in Christ,  
Nor worship God alone, nor look for secure of the highest.  
But as the Gentiles Idols serve, and worship them with care,  
What kind of Church it may be called, a child may soon declare.  
How much it always should be shunned, of such as Christ do love,  
And only seek through him to please, th'almighty Lord above.  
But first 'tis meet for to declare, the perfit faith and right, 
Catholic faith.   
As hath before been taught by men, inspired with holy sprite:  
One only God we are wild to have, and worship evermore,  
To whose right hand we must commit, ourselves and all our store.  
Abandoning all worldly care, and confidence in man,  
As he that cares for us, and guides, and best of others can.  
This whosoever doth, both fears, and him doth truly love,  
And puts his only confidence, and trust in him above:  
And unto him alone doth fly, in his adversity,  
And calls to him being sure of help, as best for him shall be.  
We also must in jesus Christ, believe assuredly:  
His only son who at his time, came down from heavens high,  
For our offences and relief, made perfit man whereby  
He might redeem us all from death, and hell eternally:  
And with his blood our sins deface, that for his sake alone,  
The father only favours us, and blesseth every one:  
Hath given us life, and all our sins and faults forgiven quite,  
And of his mercy made us heirs, with him of heaven bright.  
This who so constantly believes, and doth with tongue confess,  
Is made the child of God, and heir of everlasting bless.  
He neither feareth devils force, nor death with cruel strife,  
Nor all the raging of the world, nor dangers of this life.  
But fastening still his eyes on Christ, in safety doth he row,  
Such one is perfit Israel, the Church of Christ doth know.  
Such Citizens, and such thou mayst call always worthily  
True Catholics, and members of the blessed company.  
For those that dare not trust in Christ, nor in his father high,  
Do quake for fear, and seek for holes, not knowing where to lie.  
And of their own they always seek, a righteousness to have,  
Whereby they may content the Lord, their sinful souls to save:  
Not satisfied with heavenly gifts, nor righteousness from high,  
And father's favour here for Christ, who gave himself to die  
For our offences great, and made the satisfaction full,  
And from the hands of death and hell, did us for ever pull.  
O Lord how few do thus believe? how every where in vain,  
They do abuse the name of Christ, and counterfeities remain.  
Being Christians called, and both in life, and faith do disagree,  
As in this popish kingdom here thou perfectly mayst see.  

Popish faith.  For mark what things they do believe, what monsters they do frame  
I not deny, but every where of Christ the blessed name  
Is called upon in Churches great, and creed is daily sung,  
And Christ the true redeemer called, alonely with the tongue,  
And termed Lord, but far from him, the heart doth seem to be,  
And with the wide resounding mouth, it doth no whit agree.  
Which in so many things appears, so plain unto the eye,  
That graceless must he counted be that will the same deny.  
And first behold how earnestly, they seek in every thing,  
The righteousness that of themselves, and proper force doth spring.  
Not to th'intent to live a right, and please the father great,  
That of his mercy calleth us, unto his blessed seat:  
Or Christ that all our sins and faults, doth clearly wash away,  
Nor with their life and aid to help, their brethren all they may.  
But only heaven for to win, and to be free from blame,  
And with deserts to please the Lord, that all the world did frame.  
Where now appears the hope of life, by Christ obtained right?  
And clear forgiveness of our sins, and Satan put to flight?  
For who so seeks and searcheth still, thinks yet he hath it not▪  
For no man seeketh for the thing now in possession got.  
Nor any man that hath his wits, by merits seeks to win,  
The thing that is already given, but rather thanketh him:  
And merrily enjoys the gift, of his obtained wealth,  
With grateful mind set free from cares, in quietness and health.  
Therefore since that in every thing, they righteousness desire,  
And heaps of merits and deserts, they earnestly require.  
And most ungodly useth them, unto so ill an end,  
They neither do believe in Christ, that he doth only send,  
And freely give eternal life, nor that he satisfise  
For all our grievous sins and faults, they rather do despise  
His merits and his father's gifts, while proudly in their hearts  
They trust unto their righteousness, and to their own deserts,  
Hereto it tends whatsoever they do, in Church or otherwhere,  
For this such strange religion have they framed, and paltry gear.  
And this alone of all their life, the mark and end they made,  
Supposing not to come to God, by any other trade.  
A jewish people sure and such, as at this present day,  
No better than the Gentiles are, take name of Christ away.  
For in like sort through all the world, they do believe as well,  
And law of nature doth instruct, and reason doth them tell:  
That for good deeds there doth behind, a recompense remain,  
And that th'almighty father that doth guide the starry rain  
Is to be pleased with worshipping, good deeds and righteousness,  
And other things whereby we may, our loving minds express.  
Herewith they covet every one, to raise up mountains high,  
As long time since the Giants did, for to assault the sky.  
But sure they shall be overthrown, and driven down to hell,  
For why the Lord hath long agone, decreed as scriptures tell,  
Not to forgive th'offences of the world, but by his son,  
By whom the subtle serpent's head, is broke and overcome.  
The blinded world regards not this, nor seeks to understand  
Nor trusts the word of God, but in her own conceits doth stand.  
And counts her fancy still the best, and crediteth always,  
The fond devices of her brain, until her dying day.  
Even so the Turkish multitude, do put there only trust,  
In living as their law commands, and in their doings just.  
So likewise doth the jew believe, salvation for to have,  
By keeping of their ancient law that Moses to them gave.  
And every kind of people else, the very same confess,  
believing to be saved by their law and righteousness.  
None otherwise the papacy, continually believes,  
Nor understands the righteousness, that faith alonely gives.  
Although they read the scriptures and saint Paul, and do them sift,  
Who of the righteousness of faith, and of the Father's gift,  
Through Christ doth speak so often, who is our righteousness alone,  
And ransom eke. But let us see the parcels every one.  

Baptism.  Christ when he went from hence did leave two sacraments behind,  
Whereby we might continually his goodness keep in mind,  
And stay our faith: believing all our sins forgiven quite,  
By him alone, and we made heirs, of everlasting light.  
The first is Baptism wherewithal, we washed in water clean,  
Being buried in the blessed waves, and plunged in sacred stream:  
Are made the servants here of Christ, with him continually,  
To suffer what so ever faults, and eke to live and die.  
Which as it plain and simple is, so is it most of price,  
And not to be defiled with any toy or man's device.  
But this it here defiled hath, with wicked doctrine plain,  
And with a foolish number great of Ceremonies vain,  
For thus it plainly teacheth that our sins forgiven are,  
Alonely by the deed hereof, not adding any bar.  
Accounting not the gifts of God, dealt here without desert,  
Nor sins by Christ forgiven free, but by the deed and part:  
Of him that well prepares himself unto this sacrament,  
That merits may have place, and works may gain the firmament.  
And that which unto God is due, to us imputeth ay,  
Ascribing that to deeds, that faith doth only take away.  
And that assuredly before, the font thou comest near,  
And ere thou washed and plunged art, amid the waters clear.  
Nor here through baptizing the sins of man forgiven are,  
Nor by the deed thereof as plain, the scriptures do declare.  
But all forgiven when they do believe we do confess,  
As counted eke among the flock, and heirs of blessedness.  
But such as have no faith at all, but unbelievers be,  
No pardon have though ten times in the flood they soused be.  
That of itself it profits not, although it here be done,  
With purpose to amend the life, that after is to come.  
Wherefore in ancient time it was not given any man,  
Before he had confessed Christ, with mouth expressing than  
The faith that in his heart lay hid declaring all and some,  
And how forgiveness here of sin, from Christ doth freely come.  
Ascribing nothing to the deeds, of man and merits vain,  
Nor trusting to the fond device, of superstitious brain.  
But now because this Popish state, in Christ doth not believe,  
It doth not teach that only he, doth freely sins forgive.  
But wanders through the stony ways, and ditches blind to hell,  
And through the thorns to follow him, the people doth compel,  
Besides with foolish toys he hath defiled this baptism quite,  
To make the estimation more, of man's deserving right.  
A number great of crosses first, he makes and lustily,  
He blows out sprights, commanding them with cruel words to fly.  
The fool believes the infant's young, with spirits to be possessed,  
Whom faithful christian people here begat, and parents blest,  
Then thrusts he salt into their mouth, anointing all the while,  
The infant's tender eyes, and ears, with stinking spittle vile.  
This done his oil and cream he takes, and with discretion small,  
Annoyntes the shoulders of the Child, and eke his breast withal.  
The Crysome than he calleth for, wherein he fast doth fold  
The little soul: and makes him in his hand a Taper hold.  
And that he may the better grow, he lifts him up on high,  
Herein lest that he should be thought to dote and run awry.  
And only with these trifles to delude the people blind,  
Then wondrous signs of holy things, he feigneth in his mind.  
Who will not now make more account, of these same trifles vain,  
The solemn order of the Priest, and toys of mortal brain:  
Then of the gracious gift of God, and merits of his son,  
Who with his precious blood redeemed us all from death to come.  
Especially when all the rout, that stands about him round,  
Knows never a word of all that he, in latin phrase doth sound.  
But only hears a babbling noise, and earnestly do mark,  
The outward show of all his deeds, and ceremonies dark.  

The supper.  So play they with the supper that our Lord did sanctify,  
Whereby we might be mindful of his death continually:  
Unto the strengthening of our faith, and our ascertaind wealth,  
As pledges of our happy state, and everlasting health.  
To show that with his death he hath our sins defaced quite,  
And with his precious blood hath made us in his father's sight  
Both clean and free from every spot, and every crime withal,  
And made us righteous here and just, and free from deadly fall.  
Which hope is by this supper still, made new and fresh again,  
And by the word and blessed sign, doth written still remain,  
Both in our feeble eyes and hearts, whereby we evermore,  
May praise the Lord and jesus Christ his only son therefore.  
And thankful be with joyful hearts, for all these mercy's kind,  
United all together with, one heart and friendly mind.  
To nourish this affection still, and eke in memory  
Always to keep this great good will, and favour worthily.  
He hath commanded bread and wine, to be received of all,  
As of his blessed body and blood, the tokens mystical.  
But O good God, what monstrous things, hath here this papacy  
About this supper feigned? what follies, and iniquity?  
First hath he altered quite the name, and Mass he calls the same,  
Which what it signifies, if it be Greek or Latin name,  
Or rather from the Hebrew fetched, himself he cannot tell,  
Nor all his court about the same, are yet resolved well.  
Then six or seven shameful things, devised by his brain,  
He hath commanded to believe, mistaking scriptures plain.  
As that the substance here of bread, by force of words and might,  
Is changed into the body of Christ, and in the self-same plight  
The wine is turned into his blood that nothing doth remain,  
Of bread and wine, when once the Priest his words hath spoken plain:  
But only colour, smell, and taste, and lest that any man  
Unlearned here perhaps might doubt, himself declareth then,  
Into what kind of body this bread, is changed and transformed,  
And eke into what kind of blood, the blessed wine is turned.  
The body as it here was of the Virgin Marie borne,  
As it with whips was scourged here, and on the cross was torn.  
His blood as from his precious side, upon the ground was shed,  
And though this sacrament be every day, and hour solemnized,  
And Christ thus eaten evermore, yet doth he not decay,  
But unconsumde of shape and form, remaineth one always.  
Besides although the little Cake, a sunder broken be,  
Into a thousand pieces, or as small as small may be:  
Yet every little piece is Christ, and that most perfectly,  
With skin, and flesh, and blood, and bones, and all his quantity.  
That no ungodly man defiles, this holy blessed thing,  
And that the wicked man aswell, doth Christ from heaven bring  
Into the bread, as doth the man that liveth most upright,  
Beside that Christ doth not withdraw himself from any wight.  
And that aswell the ill as good and faithless people vain,  
Even as the faithful him do eat, though not with equal gain.  
That this same body goeth not down, as other meat doth go,  
But changed into him it is, that doth receive it tho.  
Besides as soon as in the mouth it comes, so suddenly  
Away it goes (not torn with teeth) into the heavens high.  
That in this bread which here we see, and little compass small,  
Lies Christ that suffered for our sins, and God that filleth all.  
And that in many places here, at once at that same tide  
He is, and present therewithal, through all the world beside.  
That this same body uttered many words and phrases fit,  
While as among his well disposed disciples he did sit.  
And even there transformed to bread, while as he talking stood,  
And eaten of his people straight, as other kind of food.  
Besides he plainly doth affirm, that every Priest that is,  
Doth in his massing offer Christ, and that this sacrifice  
Is even as much in weight with him, that all the world doth guide,  
As was his bitter death when on, the painful cross he died.  
Moreover twelve commodities, he also doth recite,  
That every skilful Priest receives, and every housled wight.  
And every one that present is, while as the Mass is said,  
And marketh with attentive ears, how well Sir john hath prayed.  
Besides he teacheth that the Mass, doth profit equally,  
Aswell the men alive, as those that long ago did die.  
And last of all he from the people, plucks the cup away,  
And under one kind lies as much as under both, doth say.  
Because no body here doth live, but blood must needs be there,  
Nor blood can any life possess, without the body here.  
As if that Christ the master of the world knew not of this,  
But in his own appointment should for lack of knowledge mis.  
And are not these same wondrous things, and learning's passing great,  
When Christ did never will the same, nor hereof did entreat?  
To this he patcheth merits to, the Priests deserving high,  
And every one that hears the Mass, and every slander by.  
For nothing in the Papacy, without deserts is done,  
Nor must be wrought: sith for a rule, it generally doth run.  
That all our health dependeth of our works and our good deeds,  
No place hath faith nor glory given, to Christ From whom proceeds  
Our happy state and blessed life, nor only to the grace  
Of God they have respect, that doth of mercy us embrace.  
Who causeth Mass or doth it say, doth merit wondrously,  
The like do they that do it hear, and mark attentively.  
Who neither hears nor understands a word thereof at all,  
But standeth only in the Church, as painted on a wall,  
With merits great rewarded is, and all his sins thereby,  
Forgiven quite the hope whereof, doth make him look full high.  
Yea if the bell to sacring toll, and far from thence thou be,  
And cannot come but earnestly do wish the same to see.  
A merit great you gotten have, thus plain it doth appear,  
The supper serveth for deserts, with papists every where.  
Their trust is always in the Mass, to this they only fly,  
In every thing that toucheth them, and every jeopardy.  
And is not this a goodly crew? they are persuaded still,  
What day they hear or see a Mass, to have no kind of ill.  
Thus comes it here to pass that I, did lately say and wright,  
They put not all their trust in Christ, but in their proper might.  
And in their own good works, as in their doings they express,  
Being full of incredulity, and all ungodliness.  
Mass opens heaven gates, and doth deliver men from hell,  
Mass healeth all diseases, and doth sicknesses expel.  
Mass doth relieve the burdened mind, and sins defaceth quite.  
Mass pleaseth him that guides the skies, and gives the heavens bright.  
Mass plucks the sinful souls from out the Purgatory fire,  
Mass comforteth th'afflicted sort, and makes them to aspire.  
Mass washeth clean the mind, and makes the guilty conscience clear,  
Mass doth obtain the grace of God, and keeps his favour here.  
Mass driveth wicked Devils hence, and overthrows the fiends,  
Mass bringeth Angels good from high, & makes them faithful friends.  
Mass doth defend the travailer, from danger and disease,  
Mass doth preserve the sailing ship amid the raging seas.  
Mass giveth store of corn and grain, and helpeth husbandrée.  
Mass blesseth every such as seeks in wealthy state to be.  
Mass gets a man a pleasant wife, and gets the maid her mate,  
Mass helps the Captain in the field, and furthereth debate.  
Mass also doth assuage the heat that in the heart doth reign,  
Mass doth defend the pleasant grapes, and vineyards doth maintain.  
Mass helps the hunter with his horn, and makes the dog to run,  
Mass sendeth store of sport and game into their nets to come.  
Mass mollifieth the angry minds, and driveth rage away,  
Mass brings the woeful Lovers to their long desired day.  
Mass doth destroy the witch's works, & makes their charmings vain,  
Mass causeth good deliverance, and helps the woman's pain.  
Mass makes thy prayers to be heard, and giveth thy request,  
Mass drives away the greedy Wolf, that doth the sheep molest.  
Mass makes the murrain for to cease, and stock to thrive apace,  
Mass makes thy journey prospero well, wheresoever thou turnst thy face.  
Mass overthrows thine enemies force, and doth resist his might,  
Mass drives out Robin good fellow, and bugs that walk by night.  
Mass plague and hunger doth expel, and civil mutiny,  
Mass makes a man with quiet mind, and conscience clear to die.  
Mass useth many slothful knaves, and lubbers for to feed,  
Mass brings in daily gain, as doth the souter's art at need.  
In Mass is all their trust & strength, all things through Mass are done,  
In all their griefs and miseries, to Mass they straightways run.  
Such force hath lewd persuasion here, in teaching men awry,  
That our good works are only they that gain the heavens hie.  
By this so many altars in the Churches up did rise,  
By this the number grows so great of Priests to sacrifice.  
From hence arose such shameful swarms of Monks with great excess,  
Whom profit of this Mass doth keep in slothful idleness.  
For this same cause such mighty kings, and famous Princes hie,  
Ordained Masses for their souls, and Priests continually,  
With great revenues yearly left and everlasting fee,  
An easy way to joy, if it with scriptures might agree.  
Straight after these, the wealthy men took up this fancy vain,  
And built them Chapels every one, and chaplains did retain  
At home, or in their parish Church, where Mass they daily song,  
For safeguard of their family, and of their children young.  
Both for their friends alive, and such as long before did die,  
And in the Purgatory flames tormented sore do lie.  
Christ in his Supper gives himself to us assuredly,  
And all his virtuous deeds on us bestows, and doth apply,  
His merits and his high deserts with us he common makes,  
His grace and mercies every one, extended for our sakes.  
We this receive, and nothing give, nor can we give again,  
But only faithful loving hearts, and thankful for his pain.  
These men by meritorious works, and solemn chanting cheer,  
With Masses make him recompense, and satisfy him here.  
Thus much the Pope perverted hath the gifts of God divine,  
With dreams and fond device of man, and cursed countermine:  
That no where now appears the hope of sins forgiven quite,  
By Christ and life obtained here, and Satan put to flight.  

Others.  To these two Sacraments, that Christ himself appointed here,  
They add five others, that more cause of merits may appear.  
Which though they neither tokens be of God's assured love,  
Which they ne can being not confirmed with promise from above:  
Yet dare he boldly promise' here, to such as take them right,  
The grace and favour of the Lord, and eke the holy sprite.  
He doth confirm the children young, without examining,  
Or trayll of their faith, or of their wonted handling.  
He teacheth that the holy ghost may be received, and had  
At hands of every Priest, that is, as well of good as bad.  
Not putting difference betwixt Christ's Legates truly sent,  
And wicked Simon, damned for his mischievous intent.  
With Cream their foreheads doth he mark, the people laughing there,  
And those whom thus he marked hath he striketh on the ear.  
Then Godfather or Godmother is ready straight at hand,  
To bind the nointed forehead, like a wound, with linen band.  
Which he enforced is to wear eight days continually,  
With pleasure great to every one that keeps him company.  
And after taken of again, his forehead washed clean,  
So that no holy Chrism thereon, for to remain be seen.  
What should I here remember now, 
Penance,  what crimes & heinous things  
Confession takes away? and eke what help contrition brings  
And satisfaction for our faults? to shield our souls from pain,  
It must buy out our misdeeds all, to their purloining gain.  
For all things still he doth impute, to deeds of mortal men,  
Not knowing perfit faith in Christ, nor teaching it to them.  
But rather doth destroy it quite, accounting wickedlée,  
Our Saviour Christ but as a man, and cipher here to be.  
Undoubtedly the flock of Christ doth evermore confess  
Their sins, and for the same reputes with grief and heaviness:  
Nor maketh any righteousness hereof, nor justified  
Doth seek to be, no more than in the law or death beside.  
Nor any other ransom for their sins do think to pay,  
But only Christ, whose precious death doth take them all away.  
The Pope contrary clean to this, doth teach in plain decree,  
And doth command with dreadful law, all faults confessed to be  
Unto the Priest at Easter time, or of necessity,  
When as the fatal hour is come, and day wherein to die.  
And that sincerely here and plain, what hath been thought or done,  
Else can no sins forgiven be, nor absolution come.  
Where now appears th'unfeigned hope of sins forgiven quite  
By Christ, and everlasting life, and Satan put to flight?  
Who can declare what harms the people have received by this,  
How many it hath drawn from Christ and everlasting bliss?  
What scruple unto consciences, and trouble it doth bring:  
For as they can not call to mind, each fault and wicked thing  
That they have done, whereby they may confessed thereof be:  
So can they not believe, that they forgiven are and free.  
Besides with mumbling in a tongue unknown, he pardons all,  
And hath no word to bear him out, and stay his faith withal.  
But blindly will this teacher blind have all things credited,  
A guide of all ungodliness, with doltish fancies led.  
He absolution also gives, by merits for to come,  
And such as long agone are past, and presently are done.  
Not only of their own, but bought with money other wheare.  
Unto the merits eke of Christ, his death and passion dear,  
He joins the merits here of Saints, and makes them all as one,  
Persuading our redemption, not wrought by Christ alone.  
In fine a satisfaction for all sins it doth suffice,  
If to the Romish Chest you throw your money any wise.  
Or unto Abbeys give your goods, or else your wealth apply.  
In building solemn synagogues, and lofty towers hie.  
Or gad about in Pilgrimage, to visit holy shrines,  
Or say your ave Mary every hour forty times,  
And bid the blessed Virgin still good morrow mannerly,  
Or what soever else 〈◊〉 Priest doth bid you orderly.  
I well remember once at Spires I saw a wondrous sight  
Of people, in the evening late, with Cross and torches bright.  
The Cross afore them borne, and all their faces covered,  
With backs all bore they passed throw, the streets and market stead,  
Commanded for to beaten themselves with whips and scourges there,  
And truly here they trifled not, nor did themselves forbear.  
The blood sprang out a pace, and eke their back did swell and wheal  
With multitude of stripes, that scarce the Surgeon them could heal.  
Thus would they wipe away their sins, and fully satisfy.  
Is not this same a madness gross, and shameful injury,  
Brought in into this world with speed, and beastly wickedness,  
Of this unshamefast popish state, that truth doth still oppress?  
Thinkest thou that with this doctrine here, they trust in Christ above?  
Or tak'st thou them for Catholics, which name they chiefly love?  
The godly Ministers at first, did put to penance still,  
Such as were excommunicate, and openly did ill.  
That discipline might in the Church be had continually,  
Lest that the heathen should suppose that each iniquity  
Might there be done unpunished, and that the others all,  
By their example might beware, how they hereafter fall.  
And also that such punishment might please again the minds,  
Of those that were offended with these former wicked crimes:  
Not that the sins forgiven were of God with penance such,  
For laws of God and man's decrees do differ very much.  
And with one sort of penance here, they are not both content,  
Nor God and man are pleased both alike with one intent.  
men's minds with punishment are pleased, and fully satisfied,  
But God is only pleased in Christ, and nothing else beside.  
Through pure and perfit faith, the Lord that made both earth & skies,  
Releaseth everlasting pains, and never ceasing cries.  
But of this present life he doth release the punishment,  
To such as only trust in him, and virtuously are bend.  
They bid that men should in their own good works have all their hope,  
And trust to merits of the Saints, and pardons of the Pope.  
Christ hath not fully satisfied, they think assuredly,  
And doubt not for to preach the same in audience openly.  
Which serveth surely to their gain, for hereof doth arise,  
Their majesty, their passing wealth, and Lordly liberties.  
So likewise doth annealing last, take venial sins away,  
While as for help unto the Saints, devoutly they do pray.  
They always are against the Lord, and Christ that here was slain  
For our offences, and our faults, with agony and pain.  
And with their pomp and proud deserts they carry down to hell,  
The foolish flock that doth believe whatsoever they do tell.  
What anchor do they fly unto in all adversity,  
In famine, pestilence, and wars, and every jeopardy? 
Refuge.   
Look well about thee now, and give attentive eyes and ears,  
For here the perfit faith and trust of every man appears.  
What hope there is in any man, herein is plainly spied,  
The heart of every creature here, by this is truly tried.  
Who trusts in God alone, and thinks him merciful to be,  
And eke almighty, call on him in all adversity.  
And unto him he only flies in fear and dreadful woe,  
As by his word he oftentimes commandeth us to do.  
But whither flies this Papacy? in whom put they their trust?  
In all things rather than in Christ, or in his father just.  
Denying him to be their God, and helper at their need,  
Nor that all things in heaven and earth, doth from his hands proceed.  
For if they did not in their hearts this openly deny,  
They would in all their troubles here, to him for succour fly.  
And all their things into his hands they would commit always,  
Not seeking Mediators here, nor speachmen for to pray.  
Contented only here with one, whose grace and favour great  
For us we may be well assured, doth evermore entreat.  
But with one perfit God alone, they can not well away,  
Their chiefest trust and hope, they in the Virgin Marie lay.  

The worship of the virgin Marie.  She pleaseth God, and with her child, in arms continually  
Delighteth him, and what she asks, he never doth deny.  
She is the Queen of heaven bright, and with a beck can do  
Whatsoever she determined is, and gives herself unto.  
She is the happy star on seas, and port of perfit rest,  
And surest ancour for to stay the ship in seas oppressed.  
She is the light of all the world, and mother here of grace,  
That doth of God forgiveness get, and doth our sins deface.  
She keepeth those that worship her in heart continually,  
From hands of every wicked spirit, and devils tyranny,  
And with her gown she covers Kings, and Popes, and people all,  
From wrath of God, and vengeance due, that on their heads would fall.  
The gate of heaven eke is she, and everlasting life,  
The only life of all the world, and end of all our strife.  
She is the hope of every man, and chief defendresse here,  
She shows us jesus Christ, when as before her we appear.  
She also in the dreadful hour of death doth us defend,  
She blesseth all the life of man, and fortune good doth send.  
Wherefore to her in every place, with all their hearts they call,  
She helpeth children at their books, and gives them wits withal.  
She helps young maids to husbands both of living fair and face,  
She helps the woeful suitor, to obtain his Lady's grace.  
And unto married folks, she gives fair children here with joy,  
And in their travail keeps the wives, from danger and annoy.  
She healeth aged men of coughs, and shortness of their breath,  
And brings them in their latter days unto a happy death.  
she helps the husbandman with seed, and ●endes him rain enough,  
She fills his barn with corn and hay, and guideth well his plough.  
The shipman seeks her aid in seas, in danger great and pain,  
The wandering Merchant trusts by her to have his wished gain.  
The greedy crafts man trusteth still a good success to have,  
By her that is the Lady of the world, and all doth save.  
To her they do commend themselves, and all their family,  
That get themselves beyond the seas for fear of jeopardy.  
What should I every thing recite, in every matter she  
Is called upon, and always thought the only aid to be.  
She is all in all, and hears and sees what can be done or thought,  
And governs all in every place where as this faith is taught.  
Right acceptable unto God, and holiest sure of all  
The Virgin is, whom evermore the world shall blessed call:  
Yet never aught she for to have such estimation here,  
Nor power divine, without the word of God and scriptures clear.  
For if she have such force, and can do all that hath been told,  
What doth remain to Christ the king, that Sceptre chief doth hold?  
Add more to this that Popish priests these fancies fond do feign,  
Without the Prophet's warrant, or the Apostles teaching plain.  
Who seeth not here that they ne do in God put all their trust,  
That framed the earth and heaven hie, with perfit measure just?  
And that they make no account of Christ, who here ascended high,  
Whereby he might relieve the world and all things here supply?  
They rather in our Lady trust, and still to her do call,  
If any danger them oppress, or mischief great do fall.  
her do they paint and lively carve, and give her praises tho,  
In Churches high and every house wheresoever you come or go.  
To her they weeping, sob, and sigh, and howl, and mourn, and all,  
To her they certain prayers give, that here the Course they call,  
And sundry other services, but used commonly  
As most of weight, the Rosaries do flourish wondrously,  
Devised first and made by Monks, a kind of men that be  
The authors still of wickedness, and all iniquity.  
They under cloak of worshipping the Virgin, have assigned  
A certain foolish fellowship, whom weekly they do bind,  
To offer up these Rosaries, unto the Virgin pure,  
And never fail this service great, as long as they endure.  
another kind of Monks there is, by office sanctified,  
That nothing have to do with Christ, nor any Saint beside,  
But serve the Virgin Marie here, as only of her train,  
And wisely sure they are advised, for so they more do gain:  
Than if they should accounted themselves Christ's servants here to be,  
And only labour to advance his name and dignity.  
True faith continually is poor, and lives in simple case,  
Ungodliness procureth gain, and wealth in every place.  
The Virgin more on solemn days appointed festival,  
Is highly worshipped of her folk, and shaven Papists all.  
Her Image do they bravely deck with sumptuous show to sight,  
Her altar set about with bows, and Lamps, and Candles bright.  
Each man his Candle present hath, that burneth thorough the year,  
And Frankincense in every place doth smoke, and singing clear  
With Organs in the Church resounds, the people brings in pence,  
And on the altar offer all with wondrous reverence.  
Such honours are not here bestowed on Christ in any place,  
He is not thought to do so much, nor of so great a grace:  
Or counted of his nature else for to be more severe,  
Than to vouchsafe to look upon our deeds and prayers here.  
Besides they keep our Ladies fast at sundry solemn times,  
Instructed by a turning wheel, or as the lot assigns.  
For every certain hath a wheel, that hangeth for the view,  
marked round about with certain days, unto the virgin dew.  
Which holy through the year are kept, from whence hangs down a thread,  
Of length sufficient to be touched, and to be handled.  
Now when that any servant of our Ladies cometh here,  
And seeks to have some certain day by lot for to appear,  
This Sexton turns the wheel about, and bids the slander by,  
To hold the thread whereby he doth, the time and season try:  
Wherein he aught to keep his fast, and every other thing,  
That decent is, or longing to our Ladies worshipping.  
Who doth so much for Christ, or who for him doth take such pain,  
To whom if that they light a size, his mother hath six again.  
The second place in every thing, he hath or else the last,  
For no man doth his hole affiance here upon him cast.  
The popish sort and people all, by name do know him here,  
But all their trust and confidence, they set another where.  
Nor only to the Virgin here, they dare themselves commit,  
Nor underneath her sole defence, they quietly can sit: 
worship of saints.   
But unto other saints they fly, whom God hath long agone  
received from this present world, unto his stately throne:  
That after all their cares and toils, with misery oppressed,  
Delivered from the world, they might have everlasting rest.  
But these men from the skies do bring them down to earth again,  
Depriving them of rest, and putting them to worldly pain.  
For yet (they say) they careful are for mortal men beside,  
None otherwise than God, or Christ, that all the world doth guide:  
And that they mediators are, and advocates for man,  
Before the Lord and help us here, by all the means they can,  
Delivering us from punishment, and our deserved fall,  
And that they hear the prayers of all such as to them call.  
As if that Christ unable were, to do all this alone,  
Who made himself our advocate, before his father's throne.  
These things they fain and do invent, without both faith and mind,  
That steadfast can they never stand, nor safety here can find.  
As he cannot that puts not all his trust in God alone,  
And in the faithful saviour, of all our hope the stone.  
Therefore they worship saints with hymns, & songs and music sweet  
With Altars fair and Churches built, in every town and street,  
In fields abroad and parishes, in villages about,  
So that no corner can be found, nor place appear without:  
But picture painted of some saint, there gorgeously doth shine,  
Or carven Image worshipped, with reverence divine.  
And each one hath his day aloud, whereon they do believe,  
That from the earth departing here, the skies did them receive.  
another holy day they have, when church or altar here,  
Is dedicated unto them, with pomp and lusty cheer.  
The Churches for their sakes are strawde, with pleasant flowers sweet  
And every pillar garnished with bows and branches meet.  
The altar also covered is, with clotheses of value great,  
The Tabernacles opened are, and saints are showed in seat,  
Fair guilt and finely overlaid, with silver sumptuously,  
The ground with Turkey carpets spread, and hanged with tapestry,  
Perfumed all with franckenscence, and every pleasant thing,  
That may provoke devotion, and money in to bring.  

Relics.  Their bones they also up do dig, and sepulchres destrye,  
Contrary quite to man's decrees, and will of God on high:  
Whereby a greater gain may come, and wickedness arise,  
And that they may beguile the world, and blear the people's eyes,  
And all in Gold these bones they set, and round with silver bind,  
And closed in Crystal to delude, th'unlearned simple mind.  
Here feign they many miracles, and of their lives they preach,  
And all their good and gracious works, continually they teach.  
Not to the honouring of Christ, nor that the people might,  
By following of their virtuous life be brought to live upright:  
But for to bring them from the truth, unto idolatry,  
And for to pick their purses here, and them to follies tie.  
For this they bring them forth abroad, and on the altar show,  
For this they carry them about, with many a curtsy low:  
And offer them to any man, for money here to kiss,  
Nor only in this wretched case, they are content with this:  
To have their bones in silver closed, and fondly to persuade,  
Men unto superstition, with this same foolish trade:  
But also forth they show their clotheses, their cloaks, their socks, their hose  
Their napkins, shoes, and silly shirts, their hear, their skin, their tose.  
And eke the Virgin Maries milk, (so far they be from shame,)  
And coals whereon saint Laurence lay, while as he broiled in flame.  
Yea more than this, they show the Hay, whereon our saviour lay,  
Amid the manger when he first, was borne with joyful day.  
And eke his coat that cruel soldiers, would not here divide,  
The nails and dreadful pointed spear, that pierced his tender side.  
From whence sprang out the waterish blood, and cartlodes great beside  
Of that same cross that long time since was in the river spied:  
Whereof in every famous Church some pieces do appear  
Besides the slivers that about their necks do many wear:  
And sundry other things they show, which here for to recite,  
Time suffers not, nor leisure doth permit me here to wright.  
Thou wonder wouldst how these same things, so many years should lie  
And in what place they found them first, and how they came thereby.  
But lawful is it not to ask, to doubt thereof is sin:  
For all things are most truly done, and no deceit therein.  
Besides they promise' pardon here, of fault and trespass quite,  
And merits great of weight to such, as came to see this sight.  
So vile deceivers of the world, borne here to feign and lie,  
To lead the people into hell, and keep them from the sky.  
To every saint they also do, his office here assine,  
And fourteen do they count of whom, thou mayst have aid divine. 
Help●.   
Among the which our Lady still, doth hold the chiefest place,  
And of her gentle nature helps, in every kind of case.  
Saint Barbara looks that none without the body of Christ do die,  
Saint Cathern favours learned men, and gives them wisdom high:  
And teacheth to resolve the doubts, and always giveth aid,  
Unto the scolding Sophister, to make his reason stayed.  
Saint Appolin the rotten teeth doth help when sore they ache,  
Otilia from the bleared eyes, the cause and grief doth take.  
Rook healeth scabs and manginess, with pocks and scurf & skall,  
And cooleth raging Carbuncles, and biles and botches all.  
There is a saint whose name in verse cannot declared be,  
He serves against the plague and each infective malady.  
Saint Valentine beside to such, as do his power despise  
The falling sickness sends, and helps the man that to him cries.  
The raging mind of furious folks doth Vitu● pacify  
And doth restore them to their 〈◊〉, being called on speedily.  
Erasmus heals the Colic and the griping of the guts,  
And Laurence from the back and from the shoulders sickness puts.  
Blaze drives away the quinsey quite, with water sanctified,  
From every Christian creature here, and every beast beside.  
But Leonerd of the prisoners doth, the bands a sunder pull,  
And breaks the prison doors and chains, wherewith his Church is full.  
The quartan ague and the rest, doth Pernel take away,  
And john preserves his worshippers, from prison every day.  
Which force to Benet eke they give, that help enough may be,  
By saints in every place: what dost thou here omitted see?  
From dreadful unprovided death, doth Mark deliver his,  
Who of more force than death himself, and more of value is.  
Saint Anne gives wealth and living great, to such as love her most,  
And is a perfit finder out, of things that have been lost.  
Which virtue likewise they ascribe, unto an other man,  
Saint Vincent, what he is I cannot tell, nor whence he came.  
Against reproach and infamy, on Susan do they call,  
Romanus driveth spirits away, and wicked devils all.  
The Bishop Wolfgang heals the gout, S. Wendlin keeps the sheep  
With shepherds, and the Oxen fat, as he was wont to keep.  
The bristled hogs doth Antony preserve and cherish well,  
Who in his life time always did in woods and forests devil.  
Saint Gartrude rids the house of Miso, and killeth all the Rats,  
The like doth Bishop Huldrich with his earth, two passing Cats.  
Saint Gregory looks to little boys, to teach their a. b. c,  
And makes them for to love their books, and scholars good to be.  
Saint Nicolas keeps the Mariners, from danger and disease  
That beaten are with boisterous waves, and tossed in dreadful seas.  
Great Chrystopher that painted is with body big and tall,  
Doth even the same, who doth preserve, and keep his servants all,  
From fearful terrors of the night, and makes them well to rest,  
By whom they also all their life, with divers joys are blest.  
Saint Agathae defends thy house, from fire and fearful flame,  
But when it burns, in armour all doth Florian quench the same.  
Saint Vrban makes the pleasant wine, and doth preserve it still,  
And spourging, vessels all with Must continually doth fill.  
judocus doth defend the corn, from myldeawes and from blast,  
And Magnus from the same doth drive the Grasshopper as fast  
Thy office George is only here, the horseman to defend,  
Great Kings and Noble men with pomp, on thee do still attend.  
And Loye the smith doth look to horse, and smiths of all degree,  
If they with Iron meddle here, or if they Goldsmiths be.  
Saint Luke doth evermore defend, the painters faculty,  
Physicians eke by Cosme and his fellow guided be.  
Who can remember all the saints, to whom the popish sort,  
In all their troubles here with prayer, as unto God resort?  
For Christ they do suppose is mad, and s●outhfully doth live,  
Regarding nought but all his mind to idleness doth give.  
Yet here it doth not unto them, a thing sufficient seem, 
Pilgrimages.   
To worship all these saints at home, that they so much esteem,  
Nor that they can in every place, nor will show all their might,  
Though equally they in the heavens shine with glory bright:  
But into countries far they go, as they have vowed before,  
Or of their voluntary wills, to seek their favour more:  
And bear to them their offerings great, with free and earnest mind,  
Supposing at their hands therefore, more favour for to find.  
Some thither are constrained to run, by wicked spirits and ill,  
And in their hand a staff they take, or else some crooked bill:  
Or whatsoever in their hands, they at that hour had,  
Wherein they were compelled thus, with wondrous rage to gad.  
Of weapons such at Ratspon are, there thousands to be seen,  
As monuments of people mad, whereto all naked clean  
With thirst and hunger some have gone, our Lady for to see,  
Enough cannot this wickedness, and madness called be.  
There are that leave their own affairs, and business that doth fall,  
To them in common wealth, their men, their wife, and children all,  
And run abroad on pilgrimage, with danger great and pain,  
To purge their sins and by deserts, the heavens for to gain.  
For why the Prince of errors all, the better to deface  
True godliness hath promised, not here in every place  
Forgiveness of our sins, but in some Churches great alone,  
Which poor and rich, and young and old, do credit every one.  
Therefore unto the holy land, jerusalem to see,  
Or unto Compostel they run, and pass the Pyrannee,  
Or else to Rome the Lady chief, of pardons evermore,  
Who always hath her coffers stuffed with merits great in store:  
And doth dispense with every man, that willing is to pay,  
And for the same hath travailed, from country far away.  
The blessed Virgin Marie, is in sundry places sought,  
But most at Aquisgran except he better hath it thought:  
That sinful is and weary of Christ, to England for to go,  
Where as she can do many things, and rules and reigneth so:  
That they accounted it vanity, to call upon the highest,  
And take him for a blockhead here, that trusteth unto Christ.  
Likewise hath every other saint, a country of his own,  
Where most he shows his miracles, and listeth to be known:  
And where he hears the prayers best, of such as money give,  
Unto the idle Monks and Priests, that in the Churches live.  
Each one for his degree doth give, none thinks he well hath wrought,  
Except some offering meet for his estate he there hath brought:  
Whereby such store of precious stones, and costly clotheses you spy,  
And gifts of Gold and silver great, but Basins specially:  
And chalices, and Crosses big, beset with pearl and stone,  
That from the Indians black are brought, or got in seas alone.  
There glisters green the Esmerald, that blazing burneth bright,  
The Carbuncle there sweetly shows, the pleasant Camnes white:  
There shines the purple hyacinth fair, great store of sapphires there,  
With Diamonds, Jaspers, Chrysolytes, and agates do appear:  
And all the precious stones that in the world are to be seen,  
That long ago the gifts of kings▪ and Princes great have been.  
There Candles stand as great as men may well in arms embrace,  
And number great of Tapers small, that burn in every place,  
And round about hang Images▪ of wax that likeness have,  
Of Children, women, men, and sheep, and swine, and horses brave,  
With sundry other likenesses, that here were long to tell,  
As signs of divers dangers by this saint escaped well.  
Who can declare the massing weeds? the ships of frankincense?  
Their relics, and their costly shrines, with high magnificence?  
Their Banners and their other things, that in Vestry lie?  
The gifts that to these saints are due, each man gives willingly.  
Nor any man restrained is, by need or poverty,  
So that they be their advocates, and keeps them from annoy,  
And leads, them when their life shall end, to everlasting joy.  
Who doth not see that they do more, in them then Christ believe,  
To whom they scarce in all their lives one halfpenny do give.  
Few Churches also in the world, there are that bear his name,  
But saints have Churches swarming thick, in every street and lane,  
Christ still doth keep his poor estate, but Paul and Peter there,  
In wealth do Croesus far surmount, and eke in costly gear.  
The image of our Lady doth King Solomon excel,  
And painted james with Midas may in show be matched well.  
Yet all their trust is not in saints, whom though they worship all,  
Yet dare they not commit their lives, into their hands to fall:  
So that no ankar hold they have, but hang amid the sky, 
Merits.   
And downward list they not to fall, nor can they upward fly:  
But tossed and tumbled here and there, with blasts of boisterous winds,  
They have no place to rest or stay, their wavering doubtful minds.  
By their good deeds they only think, the heavens for to take,  
And in themselves good hope they have, if prayers long they make:  
And tire their tongues with mumbling vain, and endless pattering,  
Or Coocoolike continually, one kind of music sing.  
A merit great they count it here, to keep their fasting days,  
And eat no flesh, nor eggs, nor milk, nor whitemeate any ways.  
But fill their bellies full of fish, of every dainty kind,  
For these good deeds they think that God will leave his angry mind:  
And places in the heaven give, whereas he will them bless,  
With meet rewards for authors such, of so great righteousness.  
And if they almose give and bread, to such as are in need,  
Or ragged clotheses, they straight suppose to have heaven for their meed.  
If any thing to Monks they give, or on the Church bestow,  
Or of their proper charges build a Chapel fair of show:  
And find a priest to sing a Mass, therein continually,  
Than look they wondrously aloft, and surely think thereby,  
Above the heavens bright in joy, for evermore to live,  
The Lord himself can scarce devise a just reward to give,  
If they to holy places go, and for religion sake,  
Unto the image of some saint, they painful journeys make,  
Into the coasts of Syria, or desert places great  
Of Egypt, they do sure suppose, that for this worthy feat,  
They are absolved from all their sins, as clear and free beside,  
As is the dog from duskish Fleas, amid the summer tide.  
For to their merits so they trust, and swell so much withal,  
That no man able is to make, their lofty mind to fall.  
Thence joyfully they do return, beset with Scallop shells,  
Their cloaks and hats hanged round about, as if it were with bells  
With Images of lead and tin, which they in every coast,  
Do blaze abroad, and of their great deserts and merits boast.  
All things they here for merits do, and all that in them lies,  
They seek in every thing to have, some merit to arise:  
For by the same they think their sins, are here forgiven quite,  
And that they find the certain way, that leads to heaven right.  
Wherefore if of their own they want, as they have little store,  
They go and buy of other men, that commonly have more.  
But specially of Monks that have the merits chief to cell,  
Sufficient both to keep themselves, and other men from hell.  
I saw a Gallye painted once, that was both large and tall,  
That driven forth with pleasant winds, and happy course withal,  
The raging seas and waves of this same tumbling world did cut,  
And sailed out to heaven gates, that presently were shut.  
Her straught was only Friars and Monks, and on the spardecks high,  
Were all the chiefest members of the wicked papacy.  
The people with their Saren Priests, even at the point to drown,  
Amid the wild and woeful seas, were swimming up and down,  
And holding up their weary hands, with plaint and piteous cry,  
They called upon the holy Monks, that in the Galley lie.  
The Monks cast over board their oars, and out their Cables threw,  
And catching divers in this sort, a few to ship they drew,  
Whereby that none without the aid, of Monks are saved you see,  
But drowned in the Stygian streams, and hellish waters be.  
All such as are not Monks or saved by their merits hear,  
Or in their ship, and this makes fools to buy their merits dear.  
Nor yet the mind is satisfied, nor heart in quiet lies, 
Pardons.   
Of such as seek to live by works, and Christ do thus despise.  
Wherefore the Pope them Pardons sells, & grants them grace at will,  
And gives for gold the deeds of Saints, to purge away their ill.  
No fool the Pope that by this fraud such treasure great enjoys,  
But fools are they that him believe, and give their goods for toys.  
According to the Proverb thus, the cloth must still be shorn,  
Lest it should hap to be consumed with moths, and all to torn.  
In Christ alone they will not trust, therefore they worthily  
Do buy such lies, and for the same do give such prizes hie:  
And know not where to set their foot, but here and there do run,  
And always doubt in every thing, if they enough have done.  
This birding hath the people spoiled, and every realm beside,  
And of the Pope the hungry maw hath fully satisfied,  
Who useth evermore to cell the reign of heaven high,  
To every man that offers gold, and willing is to buy.  
Amid the Church there placed stands a Chest with iron bound,  
Made fast behind with Chains of force, unto some Pillar round:  
A narrow mouth it hath, wherein a Testorne scarce will go,  
Then furnish they the Pulpit with some bawling Friar tho,  
Or others that are void of shame, and care not what they say,  
Who may extol their Pardon there, and show what men shall pay,  
Persuading every man, that hath regard the skies to gain,  
And for to have their sins released with little price and pain,  
And for to have the souls drawn out of flame departed hear,  
Of father, mother, grandsire, wife, or any kinsman dear:  
That they remember well the Box, and money fast do bring,  
For them and theirs, not letting slip so high and great a thing.  
Who would not here preserve himself, and set at liberty,  
Both him and his with sums, from wrath of him that rules the sky,  
If these deceivers told the truth, with earnest mind and will,  
And did not with these falsehoods, both the soul and body kill?  
The people thus persuaded all, bring in their pence apace,  
And gives their money unto them, that near the Box have place.  
Who, jest suspicion might arise of juggling or deceat,  
Do with their seals and writing both, confirm this pardon great:  
And take the name of such as buy, and those for whom they 〈◊〉.  
Both of the men that live, and such as long before did die.  
The man rejoicing goeth his way, unskilful of the guile,  
Though both himself and eke his soul he therewith doth beguile.  
They on the other side do laugh, enjoying thus their prey,  
And neither here the living, nor the dead a whit do way.  
Herein where doth the hope appear, of sins forgiven quite  
By Christ, and life obtained here, and Satan put to flight?  
Perhaps thou thinkest now their hearts are fully satisfied,  

Tables and Images.  And that so many merits bought, no further they provide.  
Thou art deceived: in every Church are painted Tables found,  
That fastened are unto the walls, or to the pillars round.  
Wherein the Virgin Marie fair is counterfeited right,  
Or else the Saviour lively drawn, appears before the sight.  
Their Images are also made, and carven cunningly,  
Where written have the holy members of the Papacy,  
Whosoever doth before this Image here devoutly pray,  
And on his Beads the Pater and the ave Mary say,  
He hath forgiveness of his sins, and pardon of his pain,  
Which pardon doth for many years in virtue full remain.  
To this on every side they run, and worship reverently,  
While as with body prostrate on the ground, in dust they lie.  
Is not this same the worshipping of Idols very plain  
Forbidden, by the word of him that guides the starry reign?  

Bells.  If that the thunder chance to roar, and stormy tempest shake,  
A wonder is it for to see the wretches how they quake,  
How that no faith at all they have, nor trust in any thing,  
The Clerk doth all the Bells forthwith at once in Steeple ring:  
With wondrous sound and deeper far, than he was wont before,  
Till in the lofty heavens dark, the thunder bray no more.  

Ratio. divino.  For in these Christened bells they think, doth lie such power & might,  
As able is the tempest great, and storm to vanquish quite.  
I saw myself at Numburg once, a town in Toring coast,  
A Bell that with this title bold, herself did proudly boast,  
By name I Mary called am, with sound I put to flight  
The thunder cracks, and hurtful storms, and every wicked sprite.  
Such things when as these Bells can do, no wonder certainly  
It is, if that the Papists to their tolling always fly.  
When hail, or any raging storm, or tempest comes in sight,  
Or thunder bolts, or lightning fierce that every place doth smite:  
Besides they Candles up do light, of virtue like in all,  
And Willow branches hollow, that they Palms do use to call.  
This done they verily believe, the tempest nor the storm,  
Can neither hurt themselves, nor yet their cattle, nor their corn.  
But some there be, and not a few, that dare not well commit  
Their lives to this, but underneath the stars they seek to sit,  
For there (they say) the lightning can no kind of creature smite,  
Nor fall upon the feeble corpse of any fearful wight.  
There are that hide themselves in Caves, and under ground do lie,  
When as they hear the roaring sound, and rumbling in the sky.  
Where here appears the confidence, and trust unto the highest?  
And hope in all adversity cast wholly upon Christ?  
Where do they here commit themselves, and all that they possess,  
Unto the will of God, as in their words they do express?  
Are not these Papists Catholics, and men appointed well,  
That are defended in the storms, by sound of brazen Bell?  
And steps of stairs, and branches burnt, with flames encompassed round,  
And Candles light, and Caves, & dens made underneath the ground?  
Such Gods, and such defenders here, the heathen wont to have,  
To whom in all their danger they did fly themselves to save.  
Besides they do believe their sins to be forgiven quite, 
Holy water.   
By taking holy water here, whereof if there do light  
But one small drop, it driveth out the hellish devils all,  
Than which there can no greater grief unto the fiend befall.  
Therefore they oftentimes do hurl and cast abroad the same,  
Both on the people, and themselves, and Papists chief of name:  
Whose learning is above the rest, with willing minds prepare,  
To take the drops upon their hands, and heads, uncovered bore:  
And evermore amidst the Church, and in the Porch beside,  
There stands a sprinkle, and a stock, wherewith they may provide,  
To drive away the fearful fiend, and to resist their strife,  
And for to wash away the sins, and faults of wicked life.  
This water also carried is into their houses all,  
Wherewith they sprinkle chambers, beds, and every rotten wall.  
No man doth pass his threshold, but before he goes abroad,  
Himself, and all his garments are, with holy water stroade.  
The use thereof is very great, almost in every thing,  
And wonder none when as it doth such force and virtue bring.  
The common people also lick up salt, unto this end,  
And give it to their children, and their cattle, to defend  
And keep them, that the Devil have no power to do them harm,  
Nor any mischief on them light, nor any cursed charm.  
What need have these same men of Christ, that with so little pain,  
Can do such wondrous works, and to such matters great attain?  
They drive out spirits, and wipe away each sinful crime and fault,  
With little drops of water clear, or eating up of salt.  

Munkry.  Yet fully trust they not to this, nor therewith are content,  
But desperation many of them doth wretchedly torment,  
Because they find not here sufficient comfort perfectly  
Against their sins, the pains of hell, and wrath of God on high:  
Therefore to Monkry after all, do fly this people blind,  
Supposing that herein consists the perfit peace of mind,  
And that our sins with foolish Cowls, and deeds are done away,  
That unto everlasting life it is the surest stay.  
If bound unto their triple vow, they keep their fasting days,  
And prayers long appointed them, and other foolish plays,  
And all their life long from the use of tender baths they fly,  
And in their several cells, as do the Monks Carthusian lie.  
But others in their aged years, and ready now to die,  
Especially the learned and rich, and kings and princes hie:  
Do fly unto S. Frances cowl, as men beside their mind,  
Whereby of all their sins they think forgiveness for to find:  
None otherwise than if at Font they took their Christendom,  
And borne a new to righteousness, and perfit life should come.  
So with this sacred weed, they think most surely to appear  
Before the face of God, with hope must vain deceived hear.  
Though all their time before were spent in beastly wickedness,  
Without the Lord and Christ, by whom we only life possess.  
Now tell me, doth this faith and hope seem Catholic to be,  
And with the perfect word of God and scriptures to agree?  
Yet do not all these Saints avail, nor merits dearly sold,  
Nor man's good works, nor Pardons, Mass, nor all that I have told. 
Funerals.   
They doubt as yet if that their sins be clearly put away,  
Or whether God his angry mood, and fury, doth alloy:  
Even as the Turks and Infidels before have always done,  
And every wicked nation, and people under Son.  
For look how they do end their life, their sins they do confess  
Unto the Priest, and are absolved from all their wickedness:  
According to their Pardons bought, which if they chance to lack,  
Their merits and their own good works, are cast upon their back,  
And all the pains and punishments that hath upon them light,  
In recompense whereof, their sins are them forgiven quite.  
Besides the very body of Christ, they take into their maws,  
Against the Devil, and of hell the tooth and greedy jaws:  
Whereby they also may be safe from that infernal pain  
Of Purgatory flame, that they themselves do falsely feign.  
Yet more, the Saints being called to help, they are anneald at length,  
A medicine not to be despised, of virtue great and strength  
Against both sin and raging death, the rest I overslide,  
That every man doth for his soul here carefully provide.  
Yet quiet are they not with this, nor can they boldly say,  
That all their sins forgiven are, and clearly done away,  
Nor that the Lord is pacified, and pleased with them well,  
And they delivered perfitly, from power of death and hell.  
They doubt, they tremble, and they fear, that something yet remains  
Of their offences, and the wrath of God with dreadful pains.  
Therefore they will that after death, a solemn obsequy  
Be made, with Dyrge song both day and night continually.  
Six hundredth Masses to be said, and Tapers burning bright,  
And Monks, and Priests with them to go to grave in doleful plight,  
By whose good prayers their hellish pains may there released be,  
And souls there hence mount to the sky, where nought is else but glee.  
They also hire folks to say the Psalter speedily,  
And money unto Churches give, and to the poverty,  
And unto Monks and other Priests, who daily have this gain,  
With prayers and merits to set free the guilty soul from pain:  
And bring them to eternal joy, to this belongs always,  
That they at every sevennight's end, and every thirty days,  
And at the end of every year, do here command and will,  
Their offerings, and their ceremonies, to be observed still.  
So little hope and trust they have eternal life to gain,  
Or to obtain his favour, that doth guide the starry reign.  
For ignorant of Christ they are, and of his office high,  
His merits here, and wherefore on the Cross so painfully  
He suffered death, and rose again, O miserable men,  
That waver still, and have no certain hope nor faith in them,  
What end is dew? what recompense doth here remain behind  
But only just damnation, for this their doubtful mind?  
But all the popish sort doth doubt, and teach men eke to doubt,  
If we be righteous, if our sins be clearly blotted out:  
If that the father favour us, and through his only son,  
Hath made us hear his heirs of everlasting life to come.  
And thinkest thou these are Catholics? or Church of Christ aright,  
That hearken not to Christ, but overthrow his triumph quite,  
And eke his death, and rather had to every creature fly,  
Than unto him that hath the rule of every thing from high?  
I had as lief the Turkish law and doctrine to profess,  
As with the papist to believe, that teach such wickedness.  
What matter is it whether sect thou followest in thy works,  
For papists do no more believe in Christ, than do the Turks.  
The Faith of both is fond and vain, and both alike in show,  
The name alone of Christ and all his doings here do know.  
In worship, life, and faith, they do his power and force deny,  
And do despise his benefits, and cast them clearly by.   

The popish Kingdom The fourth book.  
AS Papists do believe and teach the vainest things that be,  
So with their doctrine and their faith, their life doth jump agree.  
Their feasts & all their holidays they keep throughout the year  
Are full of vile Idolatry, and heathenlike appear:  
Whereby though they do nothing teach, but should their doctrine hide,  
(Which yet in volumes more than one, may openly be spied)  
Thou easily mayst know whether true Catholics they be,  
And only trust in Christ, and keep th'assured verity.  
Be therefore here a perfit judge, and all things warily way,  
With equal balance, for before thine eyes I here will lay  
Most plainly, though not all (for who is able that to tell,)  
But such as best are known to us in Germany that devil.  
And first betwixt the days they make no little difference,  
For all be not of virtue like, nor like pre-eminence. 
Con. 26. q. ●. Si quis. Non ob●er. Quis. q. 2. Nos planet. Sed & illud q. 5. Non liceat.   
But some of them Egyptian are, and full of ieopardée,  
And some again beside the rest, both good and lucky be.  
Like difference of the nights they make, as if th'almighty king,  
That made them all, not gracious were to them in every thing.  
Beside they give attentive ear to blind Astronomars,  
About th'aspects in every hour of sundry shining stars:  
And underneath what Planet every man is borne and bred,  
What good or evil fortune doth hung over every head.  
Hereby they think assuredly to know what shall befall,  
As men that have no perfit faith nor trust in God at all:  
But think that every thing is wrought and wholly guided here,  
By moving of the Planets, and the whirling of the Spear.  
Not vain they pierce nor enter in the baths at any day,  
Nor pair their nails, nor from their head do cut the hear away:  
They also put no child to nurse, nor mend with dung their ground,  
Nor medicine do receive to make their crazed bodies sound,  
Nor any other thing they do, but earnestly before  
They mark the Moon how she is placed, and standeth evermore:  
And every planet how they rise, and set in each degree,  
Which things unto the perfit faith of Christ repugnant be.  
Which first I show, lest in my course I should be driven plain,  
To call to mind these foolish toys, now to my theme again.  
Three weeks before the day whereon was borne the Lord of grace,  

Aduent.  And on the Thursday Boys and Girls do run in every place,  
And bounce and beat at every door, with blows and lusty snaps,  
And cry, the advent of the Lord not borne as yet perhaps.  
And wishing to the neighbours all, that in the houses devil,  
A happy year, and every thing to spring and prospero well:  
Here have they pears, and plumbs, & pence, each man gives willinglée,  
For these three nights are always thought, unfortunate to be:  
Wherein they are afraid of spirits, and cankered witches spite,  
And dreadful devils black and grim, that then have chiefest might.  
In these same days young wanton Eyrles that meet for marriage ●ée,  
Do search to know the names of them that shall their husbands be.  
Four Onions, five, or eight, they take and make in every one,  
Such names as they do fancy most, and best do think upon.  
Thus near the Chimney them they set, and that same Onion than,  
That first doth sprout, doth surely bear the name of their good man.  
Their husbands nature eke they seek to know, and all his guise,  
When as the Sun hath hid himself, and left the starry skies,  
Unto some woodstacke do they go, and while they there do stand,  
Each one draws out a faggot stick, the next that comes to hand,  
Which if it straight and even be, and have no knots at all,  
A gentle husband than they think shall surely to them fall.  
But if it fowl and crooked be, and knotty ●ere and there,  
A crabbed churlish husband then, they earnestly do fear.  
These things the wicked Papists bear, and suffer willingly,  
Because they neither do the end, nor fruits of faith espy:  
And rather had the people should obey their foolish lust,  
Than truly God to know, and in him here alone to trust.  

Christmas day.  Then comes the day wherein the Lord did bring his birth to pass,  
Whereas at midnight up they rise, and every man to Mass.  
This time so holy counted is, that divers earnestly  
Do think the waters all to wine are changed suddenly:  
In that same hour that Christ himself was borne, and came to light,  
And unto water straight again, transformed and altered quite.  
There are beside that mindfully the money still do watch,  
That first to altar comes, which then they privily do snatch.  
The Priests lest other should it have, takes often the same away,  
Whereby they think throughout the year to have good luck in play,  
And not to loose: then strait at game till daylight do they strive,  
To make some present proof how well their hallowed pence will thrive.  
Three Masses every Priest doth sing upon that solemn day,  
With offerings unto every one, that so the more may play.  
This done, a wooden child in clouts is on the altar set  
About the which both boys and girls do dance and trimly jet,  
And Carols sing in praise of Christ, and for to help them hear,  
The Organs answer every verse, with sweet and solemn cheer.  
The Priests do roar aloud, and round about the parents stand,  
To see the sport, and with their voice do help them and their hand.  
Thus wont the Coribants perhaps upon the mountain Ide,  
The crying noise of jupiter new borne with song to hide,  
To dance about him round, and on their brazen pans to beat,  
Lest that his father finding him, should him destroy and eat.  
Then followeth Saint Stephen's day, whereon doth every man, 
Saint Steven.   
His horses jaunt and course abroad, and swiftly as he can.  
Until they do extremely sweat, and than they let them blood,  
For this being done upon this day, they say doth do them good,  
And keeps them from all maladies and sickness through the year,  
As if that Steven any time took charge of horses hear.  
Next john the son of Zebedee hath his appointed day,  
Who once by cruel tyrants will, 
Saint john.  constrained was they say  
Strong poison up to drink, therefore the Papists do believe,  
That whoso puts their trust in him, no poison them can grieve.  
The wine beside that hallowed is, in worship of his name,  
The Priests do give the people that bring money for the same.  
And after with the self same wine are little manchets made,  
Against the boisterous winter storms, and sundry such like trade.  
The men upon this solemn day, do take this holy wine,  
To make them strong, so do the maids to make them fair and fine.  

●●●rmasse.  Then comes the day that calls to mind the cruel Herodes strife,  
Who seeking Christ to kill, the king of everlasting life,  
Destroyed the little infants young, a beast unmercilesse,  
And put to death all such as were of two years age or less.  
To them the sinful wretchesse cry, and earnestly do pray,  
To get them pardon for their faults, and wipe their sins away.  
The Parents when this day appears, do beat their children all,  
(Though nothing they deserve) and servants all to beating fall,  
And Monks do whip each other well, or else their Prior great,  
Or Abbot mad, doth take in hand their breeches all to beaten:  
In worship of these Innocents, or rather as we see,  
In honour of the cursed king, that did this cruelty.  

newyear's day.  The next to this is newyear's day, whereon to every friend,  
They costly presents in do bring, and Neweyeares' gifts do send.  
These gifts the husband gives his wife, and father eke the child,  
And master on his men bestows the like, with favour mild.  
And good beginning of the year they wish and wish again,  
According to the ancient guise of heathen people vain.  
These eight days no man doth require his debts of any man,  
Their tables do they furnish out with all the meat they can:  
With Marchpaynes', Tarts, & Custards great, they drink with staring eyes,  
They rout and revel, feed and feast, as merry all as Pies:  
As if they should at th'entrance of this new year hap to die,  
Yet would they have their bellies full, and ancient friends ally.  

Twelve day.  The wise men's day here followeth, who out from Persia far,  
Brought gifts and presents unto Christ, conducted by a star.  
The Papists do believe that these were kings, and so them call,  
And do affirm that of the same there were but three in all.  
Here sundry friends together come, and meet in company,  
And make a king amongst themselves by voice or destiny:  
Who after princely guise appoints, his officers always,  
Then unto feasting do they go, and long time after play:  
Upon their boards in order thick the dainty dishes stand,  
Till that their purses empty be, and creditors at hand.  
Their children herein follow them, and choosing princes here,  
With pomp and great solemnity, they meet and make good cheer:  
With money either got by stealth, or of their parents e●t,  
That so they may be trained to know both riot here and theft.  
Then also every householder, to his ability,  
Doth make a mighty Cake, that may suffice his company:  
Herein a penny doth he put, before it come to fire,  
This he divides according as his household doth require,  
And every piece distributeth, as round about they stand,  
Which in their names unto the poor is given out of hand:  
But who so chanceth on the piece wherein the money lies,  
Is counted king amongst them all, and is with shouts and cries  
Exalted to the heavens up, who taking chalk in hand,  
Doth make a cross on every beam, and rafters as they stand:  
Great force and power have these against all injuries and harms  
Of cursed devils, spirits, and bugs, of conjurings and charms.  
So much this king can do, so much the Crosses brings to pass,  
Made by some servant, maid, or child, or by some foolish ass.  
Twice six nights then from Christmas, they do count with diligence,  
Wherein each master in his house doth burn up Frankincense:  
And on the Table sets a loaf, when night approacheth near,  
Before the Coals, and Frankincense to be perfumed there:  
First bowing down his head he stands, and nose and ears, and eyes  
He smokes, and with his mouth receive the fume that doth arise:  
Whom followeth straight his wife, and doth the same full solemnly,  
And of their children every one, and all their family:  
Which doth preserve they say their teeth, and nose, and eyes, and care,  
From every kind of malady, and sickness all the year.  
When every one received hath this odour great and small,  
Then one takes up the pan with Coals, and Frankincense and all,  
An other takes the loaf, whom all the rest do follow here,  
And round about the house they go, with torch or taper clear,  
That neither bread nor meat do want, nor witch with dreadful charm,  
Have power to hurt their children, or to do their cattle harm.  
There are that three nights only do perform this foolish gear,  
To this intent, and think themselves in safety all the year.  
To Christ dare none commit himself. And in these days beside,  
They judge what weather all the year shall happen and betide:  
Ascribing to each day a month, and at this present time,  
The youth in every place do flock, and all appareled fine,  
With Pypars through the streets they run, and sing at every door,  
In commendation of the man, rewarded well therefore:  
Which on themselves they do bestow, or on the Church, as though  
The people were not plagued with Rogues and begging Friars enough.  
There Cities are, where boys and girls together still do run,  
About the street with like, as soon as night begins to come,  
And bring abroad their wassail bowls, who well rewarded be,  
With Cakes and Cheese, and great good cheer, and money plentiouslée.  

Saint Agnes.  Then comes in place saint Agnes day, which here in Germany,  
Is not so much esteemed, nor kept with such solemnity:  
But in the Popish Court it stands in passing high degree,  
As spring and head of wondrous gain, and great commodity.  
For in saint Agnes Church upon this day while Mass they sing,  
Two Lambs as white as snow, the nuns do yearly use to bring:  
And when the Agnus chanted is, upon the altar high,  
(For in this thing there hidden is a solemn mystery)  
They offer them. The servants of the Pope when this is done,  
Do put them into Pasture good till shearing time be come.  
Then other wool they mingle with these holy fleeses twain,  
Whereof being spun and dressed, are made the Pals of passing gain:  
Three fingers commonly in breadth, and wrought in compass so,  
As on the Bishop's shoulders well they round about may go.  
These Pals thus on the shoulders set, both on the back and breast,  
Have labels hanging something low, the ends whereof are dressed,  
And typte with plates of weighty lead, and vesture black arrayed,  
And last of all to make an end, with knots are surely stayed.  
O joyful day of Agnes, and to Papists full of gain,  
O precious worthy Lambs, O wool most fortunate again.  
O happy they that spin and weave the same, whose hands may touch  
This holy wool, and make these Pals of price and virtue such.  
For by the same the Bishops have their full authority,  
And metropolitans are forced, these dearly for to buy.  
Bestowing sometime eight, or ten, yea thirty thousand crowns,  
Ere half the year be full expired, for these same pelting gowns.  
Ne can they use the Pall that was their predecessors late,  
Nor play the Bishop, nor receive the Primates his estate,  
Till that he get one of his own, with such like subtlety,  
The Pope doth all men pow●e, without respect of Simony.  
Perchance such force doth not in these same holy Lambs remain,  
Nor of itself the wool so much, nor all the weavers pain,  
As these same powlers seem to say: for thus these palles being wrought,  
Are straight ways to S. Peter's Church by hands of Deacons brought,  
And underneath the altar all the night they buried lie,  
Among saint Peter's relics and saint Paul's his fellow buy.  
From hence the sacred juice they draw, and power celestial,  
As if the holy ghost should give these Clerks his virtue all.  
Strange Relics sure, and bodies eke of passing sanctity,  
That to such lousy cloaks can give so great authority.  
Who would not more esteem you now then when you here did live,  
When as no cloaks at all you did unto your Bishops give,  
Nor fed so many paunches great, nor shaven companies,  
With foul illusions and deceits and shameless subtleties?  
Now silver do you give and heaps of gold together rake  
From every realm, and for a den of thieves provision make.  
far be it from me that I should thus of you believe or say:  
But what so holy in this world hath been, or is this day,  
That this same wicked Papacy doth not convert to gain?  
Th'almighty Lord himself above in safety cannot reign.  
Now here the Papists do declare from whom at first did spring,  
The use of this same pelting Pall, and this unseemly thing.  
And here a thousand lies they make, from ancient fathers old,  
They say the first invention came, ne dare they yet be bold  
To burden Peter with the same, for fear they faint in proof,  
But to reject, nor probably, yet farther of aloof.  
Such folly and ambition great, whereat you wonder may.  
For Linus he that Peter first succeeded as they say,  
And guided next the sea of Rome, first took this same in hand,  
That woollen garment might in steed of linen Ephod stand.  
But where was Agnes at this time? who offered up and how,  
The two white Lambs? where then was Mass as it is used now?  
Yea where was then the popish state, and dreadful Monarchy?  
Sure in saint Austin's time, there were no Palles at Rome to see:  
When Bishops all had equal power, although as stories tell,  
The romish Bishop did the rest in worthiness excel.  
Thus Papists never count it shame, nor any fault to lie,  
So they may get great sums of gold, and raise their kingdom high.  

Candelmasse.  Then comes the day wherein the virgin offered Christ unto  
The father chief, as Moses' law commanded her to do.  
Thou numbers great of Tapers large, both men and women bear  
To Church, being hallowed there with pomp, & dreadful words to hear.  
This done, each man his Candle lights, where chiefest seemeth he,  
Whose taper greatest may be seen, and fortunate to be:  
Whose Candle burneth clear and bright, a wondrous force and might  
Doth in these Candles lie, which if at any time they light,  
They sure believe that neither storm nor tempest dare abide,  
Nor thunder in the skies be heard, nor any devils spied,  
Nor fearful spirits that walk by night, nor hurts of frost or hail,  
How easily can these fellows all these hurly burlies quail?  
That needless is it now to put their trust in Christ alone,  
Or to commit all things to him that fits in chiefest throne.  

Blaze.  Then followeth good sir Blaze, who doth a waxed Candle give,  
And holy water to his men, whereby they safely live.  
I divers Barrels often have seen, drawn out of water clear,  
Through one small blessed bone of this same holy martyr hear:  
And carried thence to other towns and Cities far away,  
Each superstition doth require such earnest kind of play:  
But in the mean time no man seeks for Christ and God above,  
Nor dare content themselves to have his favour and his love.  

Shrovetide.  Now when at length the pleasant time of Shrovetide comes in place,  
And cruel fasting days at hand approach with solemn grace:  
Then old and young are both as mad, as guests of Bacchus' feast,  
And four days long they tipple square, and feed and never rest.  
down goes the Hogs in every place, and puddings every where  
Do swarm: the Dice are shaked and tossed, and Cards apace they tear:  
In every house are shouts and cries, and mirth, and revel rout,  
And dainty tables spread, and all be set with guests about:  
With sundry plays and Christmas games, & fear and shame away,  
The tongue is set at liberty, and hath no kind of stay.  
All things are lawful then and done, no pleasure passed by,  
That in their minds they can devise, as if they than should die:  
The chiefest man is he, and one that most deserveth praise,  
Among the rest that can find out the fondest kind of plays.  
On him they look and gaze upon, and laugh with lusty cheer,  
Whom boys do follow, crying fool, and such like other gear.  
He in the mean time thinks himself a wondrous worthy man,  
Not moved with their words nor cries, do whatsoever they can.  
Some sort there are that run with staves, or fight in armour fine,  
Or show the people foolish toys, for some small piece of wine.  
Each party hath his favourers, and faithful friends enough,  
That ready are to turn themselves, as fortune list to bow.  
But some again the dreadful shape of devils on them take,  
And chase such as they meet, and make poor boys for fear to quake.  
Some naked run about the streets, their faces hid alone,  
With visars' close, that so disguised, they might be known of none.  
Both men and women change their weed, the men in maids array,  
And wanton wenches dressed like men, do travel by the way,  
And to their neighbour's houses go, or where it likes them best,  
Perhaps unto some ancient friend or old acquainted guest,  
Unknown, and speaking but few words, the meat devour they up,  
That is before them set, and clean they swinge of every cup.  
Some run about the streets attired like Monks, and some like kings,  
Accompanied with pomp and guard, and other stately things.  
Some hatch young fools as hens do eggs with good and speedy luck,  
Or as the Goose doth use to do, or as the quacking duck.  
Some like wild beasts do run abroad in skins that divers be  
Arrayed, and eke with loathsome shapes, that dreadful are to see:  
They counterfeit both Bears and Wolves, and Lions fierce in sight,  
And raging Bulls. Some play the Cranes with wings & stilts upright.  
Some like the filthy form of Apes, and some like fools are dressed,  
Which best beseem these Papists all, that thus keep Bacchus' feast.  
But others bear a torde, that on a Cushion soft they lay,  
And one there is that with a flap doth keep the flies away.  
I would there might an other be an officer of those,  
Whose room might serve to take away the scent from every nose.  
Some others make a man all stuffed with straw or rags within,  
appareled in doublet fair, and hosen passing trim:  
Whom as a man that lately died of honest life and fame,  
In blanket hid they bear about, and straightways with the same  
They hurl him up into the air, not suffering him to fall,  
And this they do at divers times the City over all.  
I show not here their dances yet, with filthy gestures mad,  
Nor other wanton sports that on these holidays are had.  
There places are where such as hap to come within this door,  
Though old acquainted friends they be, or never seen before  
And say not first hear by your leave, both in and out I go,  
They bind their hands behind their backs, nor any difference though  
Of man or woman is there made, but Basins ringing great,  
Before them do they dance with joy, and sport in every street.  
There are that certain prayers have that on the Tuesday fall,  
Against the quartain Ague, and the other Fevers all.  
But others than sow Onion seed, the greater to be seen,  
And Persley eke, and Lettys both, to have them always green.  
Of truth I loath for to declare the foolish toys and tricks,  
That in these days are done by these same popish Catholics:  
If snow lie deep upon the ground, and almost thawing be,  
Then fools in number great thou shalt in every corner see:  
For balls of snow they make, and them one at another cast,  
Till that the conquered part doth yield and run away at last.  
No Matron old nor sober man can freely by them come,  
At home he must abide that will these wanton fellows shun.  
Besides the noble men, the rich, and men of high degree,  
Lest they with common people should not seem so mad to be,  
There wagons finely framed before, and for this matter meet,  
And lusty horse and swift of pace, well trapped from head to feet  
They put therein, about whose neck and every place before,  
A hundred jingling bells do hung, to make his courage more.  
Their wives and children therein set, behind themselves do stand,  
Well armed with whips, and holding fast the bridle in their hand,  
With all their force throughout the streets and market place they run,  
As if some whirlwind mad, or tempest great from skies should come.  
As fast as may be from the steates, th'amazed people fly,  
And gives them place while they about do run continually.  
Yea sometime legs or arms they break, and horse and cart and all  
They overthrow, with such a force, they in their course do fall.  
Much less they man or child do spare, that meets them in the way,  
Nor they content themselves to use this madness all the day:  
But even till midnight hold they on, their pastimes for to make,  
Whereby they hinder men of sleep, and 'cause their heads to ache.  
But all this same they care not for, nor do esteem a hear,  
So they may have their pleasure still, and foolish wanton gear.  
The Wednesday next a solemn day, to Church they early go,  
To sponge out all the foolish deeds by them committed so, 
Ash-wednesday.   
They money give, and on their heads, the Priests doth ashes lay,  
And with his holy water washeth all their sins away:  
In wondrous sort against the venial sins doth profit this,  
Yet here no stay of madness now, nor end of folly is,  
With mirth to dinner strait they go, and to their wonted play,  
And on their devils shapes they put, and sprightish fond array.  
Some sort there are that mourning go, with lantarnes in their hand,  
While in the day time Titan bright, amid the skies doth stand:  
And seek their shrovetide Bacchanals, still crying every where,  
Where are our feasts become? alas the cruel fasts appear.  
Some bear about a herring on a staff, and loud do roar,  
Herrings, herrings, stinking herrings, puddings now no more.  
And hereto join they foolish plays, and doltish doggerel rhymes,  
And what beside they can invent, belonging to the times.  
Some other bear upon a staff their fellows horsed high,  
And carry them unto some pond, or running river nigh,  
That what so of their foolish feast, doth in them yet remain,  
May underneath the flood be plunged, and washed away again.  
Some children do entice with Nuts, and pears abroad to play,  
And singing through the town they go, before them all the way.  
In some place all the youthful flock, with minstrels do repair,  
And out of every house they pluck the girls, and maidens fair.  
And them to plough they straitwayes put, with whip one doth them hit,  
Another holds the plough in hand, the Minstrel here doth sit  
Amid the same, and drunken songs, with gaping mouth he sings,  
Whom followeth one that sows out sand, or ashes fondly flings.  
When thus they through the streets have played, the man that guideth all  
Doth drive both plough & maidens through some pond or river small:  
And dabbled all with dirt, and wring wet as they may be,  
To supper calls, and after that to dancing lustilee.  
The folly that these days is used, can no man well declare,  
Their wanton pastimes, wicked acts, and all their frantic fare.  
On Sunday at the length they leave, their mad and foolish game,  
And yet not so, but that they drink, and dice away the same.  
Thus at the last to Bacchus is this day appointed clear,  

Lent.  Then (O poor wretches) fastings long approaching do appear:  
In forty days they neither milk, nor flesh, nor eggs do eat,  
And butter with their lips to touch, is thought a trespass great:  
Both Ling and saltfish they devour, and fish of every sort,  
Whose purse is full, and such as live in great and wealthy port:  
But onyans, brown bread, leeks and salt, must poor men daily gnaw  
And fry their oaten cakes in oil. The Pope devised this law  
For sins, th'offending people here from hell and death to pull,  
believing not that all their sins, were erst forgiven full.  
Yet here these woeful souls he helps, and taking money fast,  
Doth all things set at liberty, both eggs and flesh at last.  
The Images and pictures now are covered secretly,  
In every Church, and from the beams, the roof and rafters hie  
Hangs painted linen clotheses that to the people doth declare,  
The wrath and fury great of God, and times that fasted are.  
Then all men are constrained their sins, by cruel law to tell,  
And threatened if they hide but one, with dreadful death and hell.  
From hence no little gains unto the Priests doth still arise,  
And of the Pope the shambles doth appear in beastly wise.  

Care sunday.  Now comes the sunday forth, of this same great and holy fast,  
Here doth the Pope the shriven bless, absolving them at last,  
From all their sins, and of the jews the law he doth allow,  
As if the power of God had not sufficient been till now.  
Or that the law of Moses here, were still of force and might,  
In these same happy days when Christ, doth reign with heavenly light.  
The boys with ropes of straw doth frame an ugly monster here,  
And call him death, whom from the town, with proud & solemn cheer  
To hills and valleys they convey, and villages thereby,  
From whence they straggling do return, well beaten commonly.  
Thus children also bear with spears, their Cracknelles round about,  
And two they have, whereof the one is called Summer stout:  
Apparalde all in green, and dressed in youthful fine array,  
The other Winter, clad in moss with hear all hoar and grey:  
These two together fight, of which the Palm doth Summer get,  
From hence to meat they go, and all with wine their whistles wet.  
The other toys that in this time, of holly fasts appear,  
I loath to tell, nor order like, as used every where.  
Here comes that worthy day wherein, our saviour Christ is thought,  
To come unto jerusalem, on asses shoulders brought: 
Palm Sunday.   
When as again these Papists fond, their foolish pageants have,  
With pomp and great solemnity, and countenance wondrous grave.  
A wooden Ass they have, and Image great that on him rides,  
But underneath the Asses feet, a table broad there slides,  
Being borne on wheels, which ready dressed, and all things meet therefore  
The Ass is brought abroad and set before the Church's door:  
The people all do come and bows of trees and palms they bear,  
Which things against the tempest great, the Parson conjures there,  
And straytwayes down before the Ass, upon his face he lies,  
Whom there an other Priest doth strike with rod of largest size:  
He rising up, two lubbours great upon their faces fall,  
In strange attire and loathsomely, with filthy tune they ball:  
Who when again they risen are, with stretching out their hand,  
They point unto the wooden knight, and singing as they stand  
Declare that that is he that came, into the world to save,  
And to redeem such as in him their hope assured have:  
And even the same that long agone while in the street he road,  
The people met, and Olive bows so thick before him stroade.  
This being sung, the people cast the braun●hes as they pass,  
Some part upon the Image, and some part upon the Ass.  
Before whose feet a wondrous heap, of bows and branches lie,  
This done into the Church he straight, is drawn full solemnly:  
The shaven Priests before them march, the people follow fast,  
Still striving who shall gather first the bows that down are cast:  
For falsely they believe that these, have force and virtue great,  
Against the rage of winter storms, and thunders slashing heat.  
Are Idols worshipped otherwise, are these not wicked things?  
Even I myself have erst beheld, both wise and mighty Kings  
Defiled with this religion vile, that on their knees have knéelde,  
Unto these stocks, and honour due to God, to them did yield.  
In some place wealthy Citizens, and men of sober cheer  
For no small sum do hire this Ass, with them about to bear,  
And mannerly they use the same, not suffering any by,  
To touch this Ass, nor to presume unto his presence nigh:  
For they suppose that in this thing, they Christ do highly serve,  
And well of him accepted are, and great rewards deserve.  
If any man shall hap to think, them Asses here in this,  
I sure believe he is not much deceived, nor thinks amiss.  
When as the Priests and people all have ended this the sport,  
The boys do after dinner come, and to the Church resort:  
The Sexton pleased with price, and looking well no harm be done,  
They take the Ass, and through the streets, & crooked lanes they rone,  
Whereas they common verses sing, according to the guise,  
The people giving money, bread, and eggs of largest cise.  
Of this their gains they are compelled, the master half to give,  
Lest he alone without his portion of the Ass should live.  

Maundy Thursday.  From Thursday then till Easter come, the fondest toys have place  
Wherein these cathlikes think themselves, great men of wondrous grace  
First three days space the bells are wild, in silence for to lie,  
When from the tops of haughty towers, with clappers loud they cry.  
The boys in every street do run, and noises great they make,  
While as in calling men to Church their wooden clappers shake.  
Three nights at midnight up they rise, their Matins for to hear,  
Appointed well with clubs and staves, and stones in order there:  
The Sexton straightways putteth out the candles speedily,  
And strait the Priest with rusty throat, aloud begins to cry.  
Then furious rage begins to spring, and hurly-burly rise,  
On pews and desks and seats they bounce, & beat in dredfullwise:  
Thou wouldst suppose they were possessed, with spirits and devils all,  
Or fury such as forceth them, that upon Bacchus call.  
Some beaten down with clubs and staves, amongst the pews do lie  
And others almost brained with stones, or wounded mortally.  
Well serves the darkness for these deeds, and thereto doth agree,  
The fashions like of every one, that thus enraged be.  
Here wicked judas all to torn, with vile reproaches lies,  
And Marie in the dark is called upon with childish cries.  
That she be merciful and help, and heal the faults that be,  
And through her power deliver them, from hurt and miserée.  
These things unto these feasts belongs, the candles being light,  
An Image fastened to a cross is carried all upright:  
A lantern round about his neck, is hanged to sh●w the way,  
Are not these popish foolish toys, a pretty kind of play?  
This day the oil and glasses of the Bishop hallowed be,  
And twice three times saluting them, he lowly bends his knee.  
The Cannons after do the same, with laughter wouldst thou faint,  
And wonder far to see them make, their spéechelesse glass a saint.  
Their dinner done, from th'altar all their costly clotheses they take,  
And wash it, rubbing it with bows, and bromes that they do make▪  
Then water on they power and wine crosswise there on they lay,  
And to the patron of each altar, humbly do they pray,  
That they vouchsafe to look upon their servants worshipping,  
And to assuage the fury great, of jove the thundering King.  
And here the Monks their maundy make, with sundry solemn rights  
And signs of great humility, and wondrous pleasant fights.  
Each one the others feet doth wash, and wipe them clean and dry,  
With hateful mind, and secret fraud, that in their hearts doth lie  
As if that Christ with his examples, did these things require,  
And not to help our brethren here, with zeal and free desire,  
Each one supplying other's want, in all things that they may,  
As he himself a servant made, to serve us every way.  
Then straight the loaves do walk, and pots in every place they skink  
Wherewith the holy fathers often, to pleasant damsels drink,  
And sure with no dissembling heart, for true as steel they be,  
And often times they put in proof their great fidelity.  

Good friday.  Two Priests the next day following, upon their shoulders bear,  
The Image of the Crucifix, about the altar near:  
Being clad in cope of crimozen die, and dolefully they sing:  
At length before the steps his coat plucked of they strait him bring▪  
And upon Turkey carpets lay him down full tenderly,  
With cushions underneath his head, and pillows heaped high:  
Then flat upon the ground they fall, and kiss both hand and feet,  
And worship so this wooden God, with honour far unmeet.  
Then all the shaven sort falls down, and followeth them herein,  
As workmen chief of wickedness, they first of all begin:  
And after them the simple souls, the common people come,  
And worship him with divers gifts, as Gold, and silver some:  
And others corn or eggs again, to poulshorne persons sweet,  
And eke a long desired price, for wicked worship meet.  
How are the Idols worshipped, if this religion here  
Be Catholic, and like the spowes of Christ accounted dear?  
Besides with Images the more, their pleasure here to take.  
And Christ that every where doth reign, a laughing stock to make,  
another Image do they get, like one but newly dead,  
With legs stretched out at length and hands, upon his body spread:  
And him with pomp and sacred song, they bear unto his grave,  
His body all being wrapped in lawn, and silks and sarsenet brave,  
The boys before with clappers go, and filthy noises make,  
The Sexton bears the light, the people hereof knowledge take:  
And down they kneel, or kiss the ground, their hands held up abroad  
And knocking on their breasts they make, this wooden block a God.  
And lest in grave he should remain, without some company,  
The singing bread is laid with him, for more idolatry:  
The Priest the Image worships first, as falleth to his turn,  
And frankincense and sweet perfumes, before the bread doth burn:  
With tapers all the people come, and at the barriars stay,  
Where down upon their knees they fall, and night and day they pray:  
And violets and every kind of flowers about the grave  
They straw, and bring in all their gifts, and presents that they have.  
The singing men their Dirges chant, as if some guilty soul,  
Were buried there, that thus they may, the people better paul.  
On Easter eve the fire all, is quenched in every place, 
Easter eve.   
And fresh again from out the flint, is fetched with solemn grace:  
The Priest doth hallow this against great dangers many one,  
A brand whereof doth every man with greedy mind take home,  
That when the fearful storm appears, or tempest black arise,  
By lighting this he safe may be, from stroke of hurtful skies:  
A Taper great the paschal named, with music than they bless,  
And frankincense herein they prick, for greater holiness:  
This burneth night and day as sign, of Christ that conquered hell,  
As if so be this foolish toy, sufficeth this to tell.  
Then doth the Bishop or the Priest, the water hallow strait,  
That for their baptism is reserved: for now no more of weight  
Is that they used the year before, nor can they any more,  
Young children christian with the same, as they have done before.  
With wondrous pomp and furniture, amid the Church they go,  
With candles, crosses, banners, Chrism, and oil appointed tho:  
Nine times about the font they march, and on the saints do call,  
Then still at length they stand, and strait the Priest begins withal,  
And thrice the water doth he touch, and crosses thereon make,  
Here big and barbarous words he speaks, to make the devil quake:  
And wholesome waters coniureth, and foolishly doth dress,  
Supposing holyar that to make, which God before did bless:  
And after this his candle than, he thrusteth in the flood,  
And thrice he breathes thereon with breath, that stinks of former food:  
And making here an end, his Chrism he poureth thereupon,  
The people staring hereat stand, amazed every one:  
believing that great power is given to this water here,  
By gaping of these learned men, and such like trifling gear.  
Therefore in vessels brought they draw, and home they carry some,  
Against the grieves that to themselves, or to their beasts may come.  
Then Clappers cease, and bells are set again at liberty,  
And herewithal the hungry times of fasting ended be.  
At midnight then with careful mind, they up to matins rise, 
Easter day.   
The Clerk doth come and after him, the Priest with staring eyes:  
The Image and the bread from out the grave (a worthy sight)  
They take, and Angels two they place in vesture white,  
And round about each place appears, all void of standers by,  
Save only that the watchmen there, amazed seem to lie.  
But yet I think the trembling of the earth they never see,  
Nor of the heavenly messenger, the flaming majesty.  
another Image of a Conqueror they forth do bring,  
And on the altar place, and then, they lustily do sing,  
That Gates of hell a sunder burst, and Satan overthrown,  
Christ from his grave is risen up, and now alive is known.  
Which yet they think not so to be, as plainly doth appear,  
By their Religion, doubts, and fear, and by their ●oings here.  
In some place solemn sights and shows, & Pageants fair are played,  
With sundry sorts of maskers brave, in strange attire arrayed,  
As where the Maries three do meet, the sepulchre to see,  
And john with Peter swiftly runs, before him there to be.  
These things are done with gesture such, and with so pleasant game,  
That even the gravest men that live, would laugh to see the same.  
At midnight straight, not tarrying till the daylight do appear,  
Some gets in flesh and glutton like, they feed upon their cheer.  
They roast their flesh, and custards great, and eggs and radish store,  
And trifles, clouted cream, and cheese, and whatsoever more  
At first they list to eat, they bring into the temple strait,  
That so the Priest may hallow them with words of wondrous weight.  
The Friars besides, & pelting Priests, from house to house do roam,  
receiving gain of every man that this will have at home.  
Some radish roots this day do take before all other meat,  
Against the quartan ague and such other sickness great.  
What should I show their forced faith and great hypocrisy,  
When as of Christ they do receive the dreadful mystery?  
Which they ne would if that they feared not lightnings of the Pope,  
For none of them believeth here, nor none of them doth hope  
That they receive eternal life, and everlasting seat,  
By death of jesus Christ and by his cross and triumph great.  
For who should teach to them the same, since every Pope's decree,  
Their doctrine, faith, and all their rights, to this contrary be?  
Strait after this, into the fields they walk to take the view,  
And to their wonted life they fall, and bid the rest adieu:  
Go now and laugh the jews to scorn, and all the Turks that be,  
For faith, religion, laws, and life, and their Idolatrée.  
Sure wondrous wise and good they be, if that thou wilt compare  
Them with these doltish Papists here, that blind and beastly are.  
Now comes the day wherein they gad abroad, with cross in hand, 
Procession week.   
To bounds of every field, and round about their neighbour's land:  
And as they go, they sing and pray to every saint above,  
But to our Lady specially, whom most of all they love.  
When as they to the town are come, the Church they enter in,  
And look what saint that Church doth guide, they humbly pray to him,  
That he preserve both corn and fruit, from storm and tempest great,  
And them defend from harm, and sand them store of drink and meat.  
This done, they to the Tavern go, or in the fields they dine,  
Where down they sit and feed a pace, and fill themselves with wine,  
So much that oftentimes without the Cross they come away,  
And miserably they reel, till as their stomach up they lay.  
These things three days continually are done, with solemn sport,  
With many Crosses often they unto some Church resort,  
Whereas they all do chant aloud, whereby there straight doth spring,  
A bawling noise, while every man seeks highest for to sing:  
The Priests give ear, this madness them doth most of all content,  
And wine to them that pass the rest, is from the Parson sent.  
Then comes the day when Christ ascended to his father's seat, 
ascension day   
Which day they also celebrated, with store of drink and meat.  
Then every man some bird must eat, I know not to what end,  
And after dinner all to church they come, and there attend.  
The block that on the altar still, till then was seen to stand,  
Is drawn up high above the roof, by ropes, and force of hand:  
The Priests about it round do stand, and chant it to the sky,  
For all these men's religion great, in singing most doth lie.  
Then out of hand the dreadful shape of Satan down they throw,  
Often times with fire burning bright, and dashed a sunder tho,  
The boys with greedy eyes do watch, and on him strait they fall,  
And beat him sore with rods, and break him into pieces small.  
This done, they wafers down do cast, and singing Cakes the while,  
With Papers round amongst them put, the children to beguile.  
With laughter great are all things done: and from the beams they let  
Great streams of water down to fall, on whom they mean to wet.  
And thus this solemn holiday, and high renowned feast,  
And all their whole devotion here, is ended with a jest.  

Whitsunday.  On Whitsunday white Pigeons tame in strings from heaven fly,  
And one that framed is of wood, still hangeth in the sky.  
Thou seest how they with Idols play, and teach the people to,  
None otherwise then little girls with Puppets use to do.  

Corpus Christi day.  Then doth ensue the solemn feast of Corpus Christi day,  
Who then can show their wicked use, and fond and foolish play?  
The hallowed bread with worship great, in silver Pix they bear  
About the Church, or in the City passing here and there.  
His arms that bears the same, two of the wealthiest men do hold,  
And over him a Can●pey of silk and cloth of gold  
Four others use to bear aloufe, lest that some filthy thing  
Should fall from high, or some mad bird her dung thereon should fling.  
Christ's passion here derided is, with sundry masks and plays,  
Fair Vrsley with her maidens all, doth pass amid the ways:  
And valiant George with spear thou killest the dreadful dragon here,  
The devils house is drawn about, wherein there doth appear  
A wondrous sort of damned spirits, with foul and fearful look,  
Great Christopher doth wade and pass with Christ amid the brook:  
Sebastian full of feathered shafts, the dint of dart doth feel,  
There walketh Kathren with her sword in hand, and cruel wheel:  
The Challis and the singing Cake, with Barbara is led,  
And sundry other Pageants played in worship of this bred,  
That please the foolish people well, what should I stand upon,  
Their Banners, Crosses, Candlesticks, and relics many on,  
Their Cups and carved Images, that Priests with countenance high,  
Or rude and common people bear about full solemnly?  
Saint john before the bread doth go, and pointing towards him,  
Doth show the same to be the Lamb that takes away our sin:  
On whom two clad in Angel's shape do sundry flowers fling,  
A number great of sacring Bells, with pleasant sound do ring.  
The common ways with bows are strawde, and every street beside,  
And to the walls and windows all, are boughs and branches tide.  
The Monks in every place do roam, the nuns abroad are sent,  
The Priests and schoolmen loud do roar, some use the instrument.  
The stranger passing through the street, upon his knees do fall:  
And earnestly upon this bread, as on his God doth call.  
For why, they count it for their Lord, and that he doth not take  
The form of flesh, but nature now of bread that we do bake.  
A number great of armed men here all this while do stand,  
To look that no disorder be, nor any filching hand:  
For all the Church goods out are brought, which certainly would be  
A booty good, if every man might have his liberty.  
This bread eight days together they in presence out do bring,  
The Organs all do then resound, and priests aloud do sing:  
The people flat on faces fall, their hands held up on high,  
believing that they see their God, and sovereign majesty.  
The like at Mass they do, while as the bread is lifted well,  
And Challys showed aloft, when as the Sexton rings the bell.  
O blessed God, why sufferest thou such wickedness to reign,  
And bringst them not into the steps of father's old again,  
Whereof they do so often boast? yet so unlike them be,  
That doctrine, faith, nor life with theirs, doth any whit agree.  
In Villages the husbandmen about their corn do ride,  
With many Crosses, Banners, and sir john their Priest beside:  
Who in a bag about his neck doth bear the blessed bread,  
And oftentime he down alightes, and Gospel loud doth read.  
This surely keeps the corn from wind, and rain, and from the blast,  
Such faith the Pope hath taught, and yet the Papists hold it fast:  
Not taken from the Gospel, nor the worthy doctors old,  
But from the mind of man, and from blind reason mistress bold.  
Strait after this comes Vrban in, the Vintner's God divine,  
Whose day if that it pleasant be, and Sun abroad do shine, 
Saint Vrban.   
Good luck to them they count it then, and Bacchus' holiness,  
His Image and his Church they deck, and curiously do dress,  
About his neck both cups and bowls they hung in order round,  
And fast upon his head a crown of vinie leaves is wound.  
Then him to Tavern do they bring, or to some tippling house,  
With lusty train, and unto him they quaff and drink carouse:  
Who for because he pledges none, as one that is not dry,  
In his behalf they pledge themselves, and that so handsomely,  
Till mists before their eyes appears, and legs do wax full weak,  
Their face doth flame, their head doth nod, & scarce a word they speak.  
But if the day be cloudy now, or given unto rain,  
On him they list not to bestow such honour, nor such pain,  
Poor knave into some river than, they cast him cruelly,  
And all to souse him in the stream, or dirty let him lie.  
And if this madness be not such, as may be laughed at well,  
What thing should move us for to laugh, I surely can not tell.  

Vitus.  The next is Vitus sod in Oil, before whose image fair,  
Both men and women bringing hens for offering do repair:  
The cause whereof I do not know, I think for some disease,  
Which he is thought to drive away from such as him do please.  
Then doth the joyful feast of john the Baptist take his turn,  

john Baptist.  When bonfires great with lofty flame, in every town do burn:  
And young men round about with maids, do dance in every street,  
With garlands wrought of Motherwort, or else with vervain sweet,  
And many other flowers fair, with Violets in their hands,  
Whereas they all do fond think, that whosoever stands,  
And thorough the flowers beholds the flame, his eyes shall feel no pain.  
When thus till night they danced have, they through the fire amain  
With striving minds do run, and all their herbs they cast therein,  
And then with words devout and prayers, they solemnly begin,  
Desiring God that all their ills may there consumed be,  
Whereby they think through all that year, from Agues to be free.  
Some others get a rotten wheel, all worn and cast aside,  
Which covered round about with straw, and tow, they closely hide:  
And carried to some mountains top, being all with fire light,  
They hurl it down with violence, when dark appears the night:  
Resembling much the Sun, that from the heavens down should fall,  
A strange and monstrous ●●ght it seems, and fearful to them all:  
But they suppose their mischiefs all are likewise thrown to hell,  
And that from harms and dangers now, in safety here they devil.  
Wheresoever Huldryche hath his place, the people there brings in,  
Both carps, and Pikes, and Mullets fat, his favour here to win. 
Saint Huldryche.   
Amid the Church there sitteth one, and to the altar nigh,  
That selleth fish, and so good chéepe, that every man may buy:  
Nor any thing he loseth here, bestowing thus his pain,  
For when it hath been offered once, 'tis brought him all again,  
That twice or thrice he sells the same, ungodliness such gain  
Doth still bring in, and plenteously the kitchen doth maintain.  
Whence comes this same religion new? what kind of God is this  
Same Huldryche here, that so desires, and so delights in fish?  
Which never any heathen God, in offering did receive,  
Nor any thing unto the jews the Lord hereof did leave.  
Much folly and iniquity, in every place they show,  
But we the chiefest will declare, and writ but of a few.  
The blessed virgin Mary's feast, hath here his place and time, 
Assumption of the Virgin Marie.   
Wherein departing from the earth, she did the heavens clime:  
Great bundles then of herbs to Church, the people fas● do bear,  
The which against all hurtful things, the Priest doth hollow there.  
Thus kindle they and nourish still, the people's wickedness,  
And vainly make them to believe, whatsoever they express:  
For sundry witchcrafts by these herbs are wrought, & divers charms,  
And cast into the fire, are thought to drive away all harms,  
And every painful grief from man, or beast, for to expel,  
far otherwise than nature, or the word of God doth tell.  
To belly cheer yet once again doth Martin more incline,  
Whom all the people worshippeth, with roasted Geese and wine: 
Marty●.   
Both all the day long and the night, now each man open makes  
His vessels all, and of the Must often times the last he takes,  
Which holy Martin afterward, alloweth to be wine,  
Therefore they him unto the skies extol, with praise divine:  
And drinking deep in tankardes large, and bowls of compass wide,  
Yea by these fees the Schoolmasters have profit great beside:  
For with his scholars every one, about do singing go,  
Not praising Martin much, but at the Goose rejoicing tho,  
Whereof they oftentimes have part, and money therewithal,  
For which they celebrated this feast, with song and music all.  

Nicholas.  Saint Nicholas money used to give to Maidens secretly,  
Who, that he still may use his wonted liberality  
The mother's all their children on the eve do cause to fast,  
And when they every one at night in senseless sleep are cast:  
Both Apples, Nuts, and pears they bring, and other things beside,  
As caps, and shoes, and petticoats, which secretly they hide,  
And in the morning found, they say, that this saint Nicholas brought:  
Thus tender minds to worship Saints and wicked things are taught.  

Catheryn.  What should I tell what Sophisters, on Cathrins day devise?  
Or else the superstitious toys that masters exercise.  

Andrew.  To Andrew all the lovers, and the lusty wooers come,  
believing through his aid and certain ceremonies done,  
(While as to him they presents bring, and conjure all the night)  
To have good luck, and to obtain their chief and sweet delight.  

Church holiday.  The dedication of the Church is yearly had in mind,  
With worship passing Catholic, and in a wondrous kind:  
From out the steeple high is hanged, a Cross and banner fair,  
The pavement of the temple strewed, with herbs of pleasant air,  
The Pulpits and the altars all that in the Church are seen,  
And every pew and pillar great, are decked with boughs of green:  
The tabernacles opened are, and Images are dressed,  
But chief he that patron is, doth shine above the rest:  
A board there stands whereon their Bulls and pardons thick they lay,  
That given are to every one that keeps this holy day:  
The Idol of the Patron eke, without the door doth stand,  
And beggeth fast of every man, with pardons in his hand:  
Who for because he lacks his tongue, and hath not yet the skill  
In common people's languages, when they speak well or ill:  
He hath his own interpreter, that always standeth by,  
And unto every man that cometh in or out doth cry:  
Desiring them the Patron there, with gifts to have in mind,  
And Popish pardons for to buy, release of sins to find.  
The Priest doth other Priests procure, and willeth every knave,  
His harlot for to bring, and all the swarm of Bastards that they have:  
On every side the neighbours come, and such as devil not near,  
Come of their own good wills, and some required to be there.  
And every man his weapon hath, their sword, and lances long,  
Their axes, curriars, pistolets, with pikes and darts among.  
The young men in their best array, and trimmest maids appear,  
Both jeasters, Rogues, and minstrels with their instruments are hear●▪  
The peddler doth his pack untruss, the Host his pots doth fill,  
And on the table bread and drink doth set for all that will:  
Nor either of them their heap deceives, for of the others all,  
To them th'advantage of this feast, and gain, doth chief fall.  
The service done, they either to the tavern fast do fly,  
Or to their neighbour's house, whereas they feed unreasonably:  
For six or seven courses, they unto the table bring,  
And for their suppers may compare with any heathen king.  
The table taken up they rise, and all the youth apace,  
The Minstrel with them called go to some convenient place:  
Where when with Bagpipe hoarse, he hath begun his Music fine,  
And unto such as are prepared to dance hath given sign,  
Comes thither straight both boys and girls, and men that aged be,  
And married folks of middle age, there also comes to see,  
Old wrinkled hags, and youthful dames, that mind to dance aloft,  
Then sundry pastimes do begin, and filthy dances often:  
When Drunkards they do lead the dance with fray and bloody fight,  
That hands, and ears, and head, and face, are torn in woeful plight:  
The streams of blood run down the arms, and oftentimes is seen  
The carcase of some ruffian slain, is left upon the green.  
Here many for their lovers sweet, some dainty thing do buy,  
And many to the tavern go, and drink for company,  
Whereas they foolish songs do sing, and noises great do make:  
Some in the mean while play at Cards, and some the Dice do shake.  
Their custom also is, the Priest into the house to pull:  
Whom when they have, they think their game accomplished at full:  
He far in noise exceeds them all, and eke in drinking dry  
The cups, a prince he is, and holds their heads that spéewing lie▪  
And that with such attendance good, that often therewithal  
His stomach turns, for which his neighbours like and love him all:  
Whom if the liquor that he tastes do hap to handle so,  
As on his feeble legs unto his house he can not go:  
But reel and stagger here and there, as oftentimes is seen,  
They friendly set him on a horse, and home they carry him clean:  
To show their thankful hearts again, this Catholic array,  
Is always used upon this feast, and venerable day.  
For souls departed from this life, they also careful be,  

All soulne day.  The shaven sort in numbers great, thou shalt assembled see,  
Where as their service with such speed, they mumble out of hand,  
That none, though well they mark, a word thereof can understand,  
But soberly they sing, while as the people offering be,  
For to relieve their Parents souls that lie in miseree.  
For they believe the shaven sort, with doleful harmony,  
Do draw the damned souls from hell, and bring them to the sky:  
Where they but only here regard, their belly and their gain,  
And never troubled are with care of any soul in pain.  
Their service thus in order sing, and paid for Mass and all,  
They to the Tavern straightways go, or to the Parson's hall,  
Where all the day they drink and play, and pots about do walk,  
Whereas these Cathlicke fathers have such lewd and beastly talk,  
As doubtless would abhorred be, in any stinking stews,  
And such as any ruffian would, ashamed be to use.  
These are their chief solemnities, and orders all the year,  
Which with the popish faith in all agreeing doth appear:  
And doth declare thou seest the minds of these same holy men,  
What virtues great they have, and what religion lies in them.  

Churches.  The like their temples teach, dressed up in more than Pagan guise,  
That shines with wicked furniture, before the people's eyes,  
As Idols, altars, pictures lewd, with arms of men profane,  
And Banners, Crosses, burning Lamps, & lights that always flame  
Before the Virgin's Image fair, and bread in secret put,  
That round about with iron grates, and Chancel close is shut:  
That surely not unworthily the Turks believe and say,  
The Papists are Idolaters, and have no perfit way  
In serving God, who yet accounted themselves assuredly,  
The very Spouse and Church of Christ, that cannot run awry.  

Funerals.  Seest thou how in their life they do believe, and when they die,  
How doubtful they? that shavelings seek their own commodity,  
Regarding not what hap unto the simple people falls:  
For if that any would neglect, the wonted funerals,  
Their singing and their roaring vain, and only here commit  
Himself to God, his heir should be constrained to furnish it,  
And punished sore if any thing herein shall wanting be,  
Of all the toys that doth belong, to such solemnity.  
Thinkest thou they careful are that souls, the heavens do attain,  
And Purgatory scape, or rather for their filthy gain?  
Some where for children is the like, whom yet they do confess,  
For to be just, and innocent, and die in blessedness:  
Their parents for their funerals, constrained are to pay,  
Lest of the Popish tyranny, should any part decay.  
No faith nor perfect godliness doth any where appear,  
But fraud, and crafty coulouring, and such deceitful gear.  
Behold again their prayers and the books they occupy, 
Prayers.   
Wherewith to God, and to the saints, they pray continually:  
And to the Angels use the like, which superstitious kind,  
They do not read with any spirit, or zealousness of mind:  
No cause provoketh them to pray, this only them assigned,  
To babble much, for otherwise would want no words nor mind,  
Ne should they need so many prayers, appointed them to say,  
Nor thus to tire their wearied tongue, with mumbling all the day.  
Likewise before the heaps of bones, prepared for the same  
They stand, and to the spirits and souls in grave, they prayers frame:  
And for their good estate they pray, that measure none they know,  
Of foolishness, nor wicked deeds do ever cease to flow:  
To Church they come with beads of bone, or of some other thing,  
Whose middles pierced through are tied, and joined with a string:  
Thus fastened, fifty Rosaries, they still accounted the same,  
And thrice so many Psalters they accustomed are to name.  
With these unto our Lady, and to God, and to his saints,  
They number all their babbling words, and all their tedious plaints.  
So that they number only seek, not caring for the mind,  
That woman holiest is by much, and of devoutest kind:  
Whose beads unto her foot do reach, and eke whose maidens so  
Dressed up with her in like attire, unto the Church do go.  

Charms.  Besides for Charms and Sorseries, in all things they excel,  
Both Dardan and the Witches foul, that by Maeotis devil.  
The reason is, that yet to trust in God they have no skill,  
Nor will commit themselves unto th'almighty fathers william.  
If any woman brought a-bed, amongst them haps to lie,  
Then every place enchanter like, they cleanse and purify:  
For fear of spirits lest harm she take, or carried clean away,  
Be stolen from thence, as though she than in greatest danger lay,  
When as her travails overpast, and ended well her pain,  
With rest and sleep she seeks to get, her strength decayed again.  
The like in travails hard they use, and marriages aswell,  
And eke in all things that they buy, and every thing they cell.  
About these Catholics necks and hands, are always hanging charms,  
That serve against all miseries, and all unhappy harms:  
Among the which, the threatening writ of Michael maketh one,  
And also the beginning of the Gospel of Saint john:  
But these alone they do not trust, but with this same they have,  
Their barbarous words, & crosses drawn, with blood or painted brave.  
They sword enchant, and horses strong, and flesh of men they make  
So hard and tough, that they ne care, what blows or cuts they take,  
And using Necromancy thus, themselves they safely keep,  
From bows, or guns, & from the wolves their cattle, lambs & sheep:  
No journey also they do take, but charms they with them bear,  
Besides in glistering glasses fair, or else in crystal clear  
They spirits enclose, and as to Prophet's true, so to the same  
They go, if any thing be stolen, or any taken lame.  
And when their Cows do give no milk, or hurt, or bitten sore,  
Or any other harm that to these wretches happens more.  

Holy days.  Now last behold how they do keep, their sabbath days throughout,  
First in the morning finely dressed, they jet the streets about:  
With garments fond iagde and cut, and proud and lofty pace,  
And rapyres long about them girt, their great and chiefest grace▪  
Some others walk into the fields, or else at every gate,  
They talk and laugh, and thus begin the day to celebrated.  
another sort together come, and drinking hand to hand,  
They quaff so long, till none of them be able for to stand:  
Yea oftentimes they in their seats, with drink are strangled quite,  
And yielding up their drunken ghosts, do bid their mates goodnight.  
But few of them do care for Mass, though every one do say,  
And think it holiest is, nor to the Church they go to pray:  
But either breakefastes long they make, at home when they arise,  
Or drink until the evening star, begin to shine in skies.  
Or else before the Church door prate, or in the marketstead.  
Now when their dinner once is done, and that they well have fed,  
To play they go, to casting of the stone, to run, or shoot,  
To toss the light and windy ball, aloft with hand or foot:  
Some others try their skill in gonnes, some wrestle all the day,  
And some to schools of fence do go, to gaze upon the play:  
An other sort there is that do not love abroad to roam,  
But for to pass their time at cards, or tables still at home:  
Some use to sit before their doors, and backbite every man,  
Or news devise, or some debate, and strife whereas they can.  
The God of wine doth never want, in all their sports and play,  
Who when he once hath touched the brain, & drawn the mind away,  
Of every word ariseth blows, their manhood to assay,  
So that no sunday shalt thou see, without some drunken fray.  
And thus of custom endeth still, this solemn festival,  
With drunkenness, a plague unto the brain and members all▪  
To Ensong are they called strait, by tolling of the bell,  
But from their place they list not stir, being occupied so well:  
They forward with their game do go, and Church and service all,  
Commit unto the schoolmasters, or Vicar general.  
Some others to their Ladies sues, being amorous all the while,  
Or frame deceits or subtleties, young maidens to beguile,  
The wanton youth to dancing goes, and wickedly do draw,  
The maidens in ring, and wantonness hath neither bonds nor law.  
And lest the youth their pleasure full of whoredom should not take,  
In every City common stews, they maintain and they make: 
Stews.   
And Bawds they suffer openly, and cherish them withal,  
Of whom no slender price do here receive nor profit small:  
These Catholics and holy men, and Church of Christ on high,  
The same that all the world reform, and heritiks destroy.  
To these do come all those whom here their filthy lust provokes,  
Both country men, and foreigners, and poor and wealthy folks.  
Whatsoever they be that have not yet, the yoke of marriage tried,  
No kind of shame doth drive them hence, nor any care beside.  
For lawful here they do it see, and not to be despised,  
But with the Popish sort to be, an exercise devised.  
Sometime it also haps, that married men do here resort,  
But not without their punishment, if once the youthful sort  
perceive that they do thither come, for this they dearly pay,  
And oftentimes are used ill, and bear the blows away:  
But at this same the rulers laugh, and nothing do it way,  
For Papists whoredom do allow, and count it but a play.  
For of the polshorne Priests they learn, and them they follow still,  
That laws are not of any force to remedy this ill:  
The law Scatinian is extinct, and julian laughed at now,  
The Papists every kind of vice, and wickedness allow:  
And not alonely in themselves, they do the same permit,  
But also unto all that list, with Gold to purchase it.  
But here I feign would understand, what strange Apostle he,  
That gave unto the Christian sort, this wanton liberty?  
That where they freely might enjoy, and have them openly,  
And they themselves to take the hire of beastly letcherye?  
And notwithstanding this to be true Catholics in fine,  
The perfect servants here of God, and Church of Christ divine?  
Of their religion, life, and deeds, learn thou their faith at full,  
That they with empty shadow thee not into error pull.  
This was the guise of Corinth great, and Cyprus eke of old,  
While darkness rained, and Satan ●oule, his sceptre there did hold:  
But with a worthy cloak they cover now this whoredom vile,  
Lest that the youth should hap both maids and matrons to defile.  
Who would not muse to see the wit of these same catholics,  
Their sharp inventions, and devise, in all their proper tricks?  
This thing could Moses not perceive, that all things else did see,  

Deut 2●. 1. Cor 5.6.7.10.  Who wild that whoremongers should none among the people be:  
And banishte all the ●●rlottes quite, as God did him advise,  
Not: Paul it saw being lifted up, above the starry skies:  
Who did forbidden that any man, his members framed of right, 
Heb. 13. Gal. 5. Ephe. 5. 1. Thes. 4.   
To be the dwelling place of Christ, and of the holy sprite:  
Should unto Harlots give, and make the same thereby to be,  
The body of a whore, this stain and blot commanded he  
To be excluded far from saints, and such as christened be.  
But they have nothing for to do, with Moses' nor with Paul,  
Nor any honest things they will obey, nor laws at all.  
Themselves they pardon and forgive, dispensing wondrously,  
As men that only here possessed the keys of heaven high.  
I many things do over pass, nor have they every where,  
Their customs like, for every realm hath his devised gear:  
Yea both in Cities great, and in the villages thereby,  
There are that do such doltish dreams, defend maliciously,  
That quite contrary are to Christ, and to religion right,  
Which neither canst thou easily know, nor well in verse recite.  
Now when these Popish loathsome limbs, by no means we can see  
In life nor in their travail here, the limbs of Christ to be,  
Nor can in any wise embrace, the fond religion vain,  
And shameful orders to the world, of God contrary plain,  
Nor doctrine of so wicked faith, to Christian people give,  
But rather as the Apostles teach, do simply seek to live,  
Rejecting toys and man's device, as which we surely know,  
To be detested of that Prince, that lightnings down doth throw:  
We here are called heretics, and worthy thought to be,  
Of halter, sword, consuming fire, and each extremity.  
We punished are, our houses sealed, or from our country far  
We banished be, or else oppressed at home with civil war:  
Whereas the dreadful Soldier doth consume, and clean devours,  
The goods that here hath gotten been, by toil and pain of ours.  
These things these Catholics attempt, when in so many years,  
By scriptures sure they cannot plant, this foolish faith of theirs:  
Nor ours with scriptures overthrow, that now they seek to make  
The Prince of hell and Christ to join in one, and parts to take.  
For (all ashamed) they plain perceive, that long they cannot stand,  
With this religion and this life, if once do come in hand,  
The word of God the heavenly light, and that abroad do shine,  
The twelve Apostles doctrine, and that blessed court divine.  
Nor good it seemeth yet to them (such is their wisdom high,)  
To grant that they have erred in any thing or gone awry.  
For shame it is that learned men, and such as famous be,  
For Mitars and for Crosiar staves, amongst the Christiantée  
Christ nor the Apostles faith to know, that perfect is and just,  
But to be led with dreams of men, whom none may safely trust.  
From hence proceedeth all their grief, and all their cruel hate,  
That with effusion of our blood, they establish their estate:  
And will not here be pacified by any other means,  
Except we do allow and like, their lewd and monstrous dreams:  
And altogether run in one, like flocks for company,  
To false and wicked worshippings, and vile idolatry:  
And knowledge them for Lords of faith, and rulers of us all,  
Although they teach no doctrine of the King celestial.  
Often hath it been agreed that either part should freely use  
Their own religion, serving God as best they list to choose:  
And neither part the other for to trouble or molest,  
With wars or books, that Germany might live in peace or rest.  
But Papists can no peace abide, continually they writ,  
And both with words, and wretched deeds, most cruelly do bite:  
Not only us, which might (perhaps) be well enough endured,  
But also Gods most holy word, and gospel here assured.  
If tumults on our parts arise, or any great ado,  
Or if our men do armour take, being forced thereunto,  
And by the law of arms do burn, and spoil their enemy,  
And take the pillage of their foes, immediately they cry:  
The wicked Gospel worketh this, behold in what a plight  
These fellows live, the Devil brought this Gospel first to light:  
It Turkish is, and not the same, that Luke wrought long ago:  
And spitefully they slander it, with many railings more:  
As if that any Preacher here, did ever this allow,  
Or any did by word of Christ, such cruelty avow.  
They know full well themselves that none of ours did ever teach,  
To use such violence nor this unto the people preach:  
Yet with their vile infective tongues, and mouths enuenemde tho,  
With poison that in hellish lakes, and Stygian streams doth flow,  
The Gospel of the Lord they do, most spitefully defame,  
And herewithal the Ministers and Preachers of the same.  
But who can Princes govern here, or any means devise,  
To keep them in, from using force against their enemies?  
Why do they not as well dissuade their Catholics, and blame  
Them for their force and cruelty, that do the very same?  
And boldly every where destroy, and every man molest,  
Yea even their very friends at home, that feign would live at rest.  
What kind of Gospel teach those men, that even openly  
With bitter words and books persuade men to such cruelty?  
Are these to any man unknown? doth France and Italy  
Not openly declare the same, and plainly testify?  
Do not the pulpits of the Pope, persuade this martial might,  
And pardons every man his sins that in their quarrel fight?  
But sure the wallet them beguiles, that hangs behind their back,  
And better others faults they see, than what themselves do lack:  
Accounting here for catholics, themselves and all their train,  
And others all as heretics, and wicked people plain:  
Wherefore the chiefest members of this holy popish state,  
Their ceremonies and their days, they yearly consecrated.  
Their foolish faith and beastly life, I openly do show,  
That all the world may understand, and every man may know,  
That neither Christ nor perfect faith, they any whit do way,  
But only seek to look aloft, and boldly for to say,  
That they the book of Peter are, and holy Catholics,  
And we unhappy castaways, and cursed heretics.  
But wherein are they Catholics? because they follow here  
The truth? but what they follow and believe doth plain appear.  
So it is that in number they and countries us excel,  
So mayst thou both the Turks and Moors, call Catholics as well.  
Herewith I judge that every man, that hath an upright heart,  
Doth understand how just our cause hath been for to departed  
From this their monstrous faith, and from their lewd ydolatrée,  
And for to shun these popish members all of each degree:  
As men that neither Christ do know, nor ever seek to find,  
Nor suffer such as would, but keep them still in darkness blind.  
FINIS.   

A Table of the principal matters contained in this Book.  

A  
ABbot of what Monks. 21 

His conditions. 22    
Abottes their confirmation. 6  
Absolution how the Papists use it. 34  
Absurdities that the Pope commands to be believed in the ministering of the lords supper. 31  
Agate the stone. 39  
Acoluth his office. 13  
Advent. 44  
Adultery a pastime. 58  
Agatha her virtue against fire. 38  
Agnes her feast. 46  
Agnus dei. 46  
Albe. 13  
Altars their dedication. 13  
Altars their washing. 51  
Altars their number how they sprang. 33  
Andrew his feast. 55  
Angels about the sepulchre. 52  
Alsoulne day. 56  
Anne her virtue. 38  
Annates commodious to the Pope. 6  
Anthony his help. 38  
Appeals to Rome. 24  
Appolin the virgin her virtue. 38  
Aquisgran. 39  
Altars anointed. 25  
Archbishop of Colin. 9  
Ascension day. 53  
An Ass of wood. 50  
Assumption of the virgin Marie. 55  
Avarice a common disease with papists. 27  
Austen his time. 47  
Ash-wednesday. 49  
Almose to what end given to papists.  
Absolution for works. 34  
Anointing of finger head, & hand. 34   

B.  
BIshop his order at the Altar. 10.11  
Baptism done in Latin. 31  
Baptism the order and use. 30 

Profane by the papists. 31    
Bachanalles. 47.48  
Baptism how it was used at the first. 31  
Baptism defiled with foolish gestures. 31  
Barbara what she carrieth. 53  
Barbara her virtues. 38  
Bennet Monks their Abbot. 21  
Bennet why he forbade his Monks the Bible. 22  
Bennet his virtue. 38  
Benefits of our Lady to her worshippers. 35.36  
Bible the interpretation belonging only to the Pope. 3  
Blaze his day .47. his virtue. 38  
Boemians worshippers of the Pope. 2  
Benefits given by the Papystes for money. 27  
Breeches of Saints showed for Relics. 38  
Butter to be eaten, a sin. 49  
Bell of numberg Heruaunt. 41.42  
Bells anointed. 25  
Bishop his furniture and apparel. 9  
Bishops their description, their oath their order in preaching. 8  
Bonfires. 54  
Begging Friars their order. 22  
Bawds allowed by the Papists. 58  
Begging thought a beauty. 23  
Bawlinge friars set on to get money. 41  
Bones of saints digged up for gain. 39  
Bread changed into the body of christ. 31  
Blockheades deputies to bishops.   

C.  
Christening of Bells. 14 

Tolling against tempests. 41    
Candles at pilgrimages. 39  
Candlesticks offered by Pilgrims. 39  
Commons their riot. 16  
Canonical hours. 16  
Common law how it came. 26  
Commons arrayed in black. 16 

Prisoners their God. 38    
Carbuncle. 39  
Cardinals their entertainment. 7  
Cardinals a burden to the world. 8 

their manner of polling. 7    
carps offered, to what Saint. 55  
Charterhouse Monks. 42  
Catherine her weapons. 53 

her feast. 55    
Catherine her virtue. 38  
Catholics who be. 29  
Catholic faith. 29  
Chrism. 14  
Chrism, the use thereof in baptism. 31  
Chrism used about children. 34  
Christopher. 53  
Christopher his aid. 38  
Christ why he ascended. 36 

why he washed his disciples feet. 51    
Christ poor. 39  
Christ our righteousness. 30 

our advocate before the father. 37    
Christ what he hath done for us. 4 

what he gives us in his supper. 33  
how he is always eaten. 32    
Christ and Moses their difference. 11  
Christ his birth. 44 

his bore ●●●ue. 34  
Churches seldom built to him, his offering in Mass. 32    
Christ eaten of good and evil. 32 

joined with belial. 59    
Christ his estimation with the Turk, and the Papists. 43  
Christians their true penance. 34  
Chrysolyt. 39  
Candlemas day. 47  
Coffer in the Church. 41  
Citizens purchase the carrion of an Ass. 50  
Coleyn though Archbishop. 9  
Counsel none without the Pope. 4  
Confirmation popish. 33.34  
Corinthians their Custom. 58  
Christ his body to be sold. 27  
Corpus Chris●i day, 53  
Coribantes. 45  
Cross kissed by popish priests. 51  
Crosses abo●t Papists necks. 57  
Course prayers to our Lady. 36  
Courtesans, or Courtiers of Rome. 16  
Church of Christ, her true Citizens. 29 

her power, from whom she hath it. 2    
conjuror his office. 13  
Court of Rome what servants they like. 16  
cowl of Friars fled unto. 42  
Cardinals hats. 7  
Childermas day. 45  
Cardinals their oath. 7  
Care sunday. 49  
Coals of saint Laurence to be seen. 37  
Cardinals imbassadors. 7  
Chrisom for children. 31  
Candle used at christenings. 31  
Casting of snow balls. 48  
Caves sought in time of tempest.  
Clappers  
Church walls anointed. 3●  
Churches garnished. 37  
Churches bear the name of every saint, but seldom of Christ. 37  
Christ his coat to be seen.  
Common people deceived by inquisitors.  
Counsels in Germany.  
Canons their Catskin hoods. 16  
Camewse a ston●   

D.  
DEscription of abbeys. 21  
Dancing at Bonfires. 54  
Devils enclosed in Crystal. 57  
Damasus the Pope devisor of the hours canonical 16  
Danes worshippers of the Pope. 2  
Daniel his life. 19  
Dardanus a witch. 57  
Difference in days. 44  
Divine honour not due to our Lady. 36  
deaths picture carried about. 50  
Dedication of Churches. 12  
Damnation the reward of doubtful mind. 43   

E.  
ENglish worshippers of the Pope. 2  
Ephod of the jews. ●6. 47  
Excommunication how it was used at the first. 35  
Exequys. 57  
Eggs forbidden. 49  
Eggs lawful to be eaten. 27  
Eggs offered by pilgrims.  
emerald. 39  
Extreme unction the use.  
Extreme unction taketh away sins.  
Easter even. 52  
Easter day. 52   

F.  
Flesh forbidden. 49  
Funerals their order. 57  
Fever what saint helpeth. 38  
Feasts of our Lady. 36  
Faith in christ defaced by the Pope. 34  
Florian his force. 38  
Frenchmen worshippers of the Pope. 2  
Falling sickness who helpeth. 38  
Fasting of Papists.  
faith only in Christ. 29  
Freedom of Priests. 26  
frankincense offered by Pilgrims. 39  
frankincense burned. 3  
Flowers and bows on palm s●nd. 50   

G.  
GOdfathers to Bells. 14  
God how he is pleased. 34  
God his power and pitifulness denied by Papists. 35.36  
God and man not pleased in one sort. 35  
God pleased with Mass. 33  
God called upon in trouble. 35 

Who flieth unto him. 29    
Gospel how it is slandered by Papists. 59  
Gospel where it is preached the Pope decreaseth. 59  
Saint George. 53  
Saint George his force.  
Germans worshippers of the Pope. 2  
S. Gertrude her force against mice. 38  
greeks never worshipped the Pope. 2  
God giveth all things freely.  
Saint Gregory his force. 38  
Gain of ungodliness, 55  
Gospel of Saint john worn about necks. 57  
Gods laws & man's far different. 35  
Good Friday. 51  
Giving of orders.   

H.  
Hallowing of the Font. 52  
Holy water his use. 41  
Helpers fourteen. 38  
Horses offered in Pilgrimage. 39  
Hallowing of Candles. 47 

their virtue .47.  
their use against tempests. 42    
Heads of Priests anointed. 25  
Hallowing of meats. 52  
Heaven to be sold.  
Hallowing of Churches. 12  
Horses healed by Steven. 45  
Holidays how they are used. 57  
Hay of the Manger where Christ lay showed as relics. 39  
Hens offered to Vitus. 54  
Hanging of herrings. 49  
Herod's cruelty. 45  
Saint Huldrich his force and help. 38  
Harlots punished by Moses' law. 58  
Holy land sought in Pilgrimage. 39  
Hogs offered by Pilgrims. 58  
Hunting for prebends. 17  
Harlots allowed to every priest. 18  
Holy water. 42  
Hungarians worshippers of the Pope. 2   

J.  
IOhn the Baptist his feast. 54  
john Baptist his going before the singing Cake. 53  
In the supper what is given. 33  
Inquisitors of Heresies. 23  
hyacinth. 39  
Irish men obedient to the Pope. 2  
Saint james rich. 38  
jasper a stone. 39  
Saint john the Evangelist his force against poison. 45  
Idols. 41  
Idols their tabernacles set open. 55  
Jesuits a sect. 25  
Indulgens. 41  
Infants thought to be possessed with devils. 31  
Infants their exequys. 43  
Inquisition what articles it hath. 23 

to whom it is committed. 23    
Italians worshippers of the Pope. 2  
judas torn in pieces. 51  
jews by what they think to be saved. 30  
jews did all things by God's commandment, and Papists all of their own head. 25  
Idol of the virgin exceeding Solomon in costly clotheses. 40  
Images covered. 40  
jerusalem sought unto in pilgrimage. 39  
Image of Christ buried.  
Images offered by Pilgrims. 39  
Image of our Lady how it is clad.   

K.  
Keys of the Pope. 2  
Knights of Duchland.  
Kings anointed. 25  
Kings kneeling to an Ass. 50  
Kings their obedience to the Pope. 4   

L.  
LIcence to eat flesh. 27  
Loy his force. 38  
Larence his virtue. 38  
Lectoror his office. 13  
Saint Leonard his virtue. 38  
Laws of God how the Pope useth them. 3  
Lechery of priests. 27  
Linus Pope his device. 47  
Loth his life in Sodom. 19  
Luke the God of Painters. 38  
Lucifers fall from heaven. 1  
Lying thought no shame. 47  
Lent. 49   

M.  
Marry beneficial to husbandmen. 36  
Mar●in worshipped with cheese. 55  
Maidens how they choose their husbands by Onions. 44  
Mass opens heaven. 33  
Mass what commodity it brings. 32  
Marriage shunned of Papists. 27 

of Monks. 20    
Marriage broken by the Pope. 3  
Marriage made & broken in consistory. 15  
Monks their maundy. 51  
Men of Cypress their manners. 58  
Men pleased with deeds.  
Murder made light of. 26  
Mediators. 38  
Milk of the virgin Mary a relic. 37  
Milk not eaten. 49  
Maskers.  
Saint Martin beneficial to Schoolmasters. 55  
Moon observed by Papists. 44  
Magic used. 57  
Saint Magnus his virtue. 39  
Mahomet's law when and how it began. 2  
Mischiefs from heaven. 1  
S. Mark his virtue against death. 38  
Mary where she is most worshipped. 39  
mary's three coming to the Sepulchre. 52  
Married men coming to the stews punished. 48  
Saint Martin his feast. 55  
Merchant men worshippers of the virgin. 36  
Merits sought in all things. 40  
Merits their estimation. 40  
Merits to be sold. 27 

bought of Monks, by whom. 40    
Michael's Epistle. 57  
Mass her commodities. 33  
Masses ordained of kings & princes. 33  
Masses what and how great benefits they bring. 33  
Murder made light of. 26  
Massing garments offered by pilgrims. 39  
Monkery. 42  
Monks wealthy. 20 

the inventors of all mischief. 36    
Monks their life, their studies, and offices. 18.19  
Monks their chastity, poverty, sects. 20  
Monks their delicacy and riot. 21 

their swarms how they spring and increase. 31    
Monks merits to be sold.  
Monks called to sleep in the day time, and whic. 21  
Monasteries described. 21  
Moses and Christ their difference. 11  
Mullets offered to saints. 55  
Miracles esteemed of the world. 22  
Monks meddle with worldly matters 20  
mice & rats driven away by saints. 38  
Mariners worshippers of the Virgin Marie. 36  
Monks where they made their nests. 21  
Money snatched from the altar. 45  
Money who giveth, what blessings he receives. 27  
Maids how they learn the conditions of such as shall be their husbands.  
Maidens how they guess their husbands in Aduent. 44  
Maids drawing in the plough. 49 

A wooden child in swadlingclouts. 45    
Making of a king. 46  
Monks their daintiness. 19   

N.  
nails where christ was crucified 38  
Nicholas his help, his feast, and worship. 55  
Napkins of Saints preserved. 37  
S. Nicholas gives gold to maids. 55   

O.  
Offering of Lambs. 46  
Oxen offered in pilgrimage. 39  
Our Ladies fast. 36  
Old fire quenched & new hallowed. 52  
Our Lady of Ratspon. 39  
Our Ladies Monks. 36  
Offerings of the people. 28  
officials and their office. 15  
Oil the use in baptism. 31  
Saint Ottilia her virtue. 38  
Offering of fish. 55   

P.  
POwlers. 47  
Ploughing on Ash-wednesday. 49  
Papists skilful in Logic. 57  
Papists trust in Astrology. 44  
Pope author & persuader of wars. 60  
Pope usurpeth the state of the Emperor. 4  
Prebendaries old and new. 15  
Priests their chief holiness in song. 53  
Paskall. 52  
Pilgrimage to Compostell. 39  
Pilgrims decked with scallop shells. 40  
Priests their punishment for marrying. 27  
Pope his consistories. 15  
Pieces of the Cross of Christ showed in every Church. 38  
Pope his triple Crown. 5  
Procession Week. 53  
Priests fingers anointed. 13  
Preachers given to covetousness. 1  
Preachers their evil life before the Papacy. 15  
Papists all teach to be doubtful. 43  
Protestants their wars, how the Papists account. 59  
Pope commandeth to trust in our own deeds. 35  
Prayers against the Fever. 48  
Popish faith. 29  
Papists riding about corn. 54  
Precious stones offered in pilgrimage. 39  
Papists seek like Giants to get heaven by their own works. 30  
Purgatory fire. 5  
Priests all shaven. 25  
Popish impiety. 53  
Pope the master of ungodliness. 34  
Pardons their order. 41  
Plates of lead fastened to the pall. 46  
Penance. 34  
Papists their pastime on holy days. 58  
Princes which they gave lands to Monasteries. 21  
Pope his riches. 6  
Palles their description. 46  
Palles their use. 47  
Palm sunday how it is kept. 50  
Palms against tempests. 42  
Pope whether and how he is holiest. 6  
Pope whether he be the Church's head. 3 

How he useth his keys. 2  
worshipped of all men as God. 2  
how he gets his riches 6  
how he knows the secrets of every Prince. 24    
Papists put all their trust in Mass  
Pope his power in Hell.  
Pope his pardon.  
Pope his apparel, his going a warfare.  
Pope his horrible doctrine of penance. 

his majesty, riot. etc.    
Popish faith. 29  
Popish pardons. 41  
Popish Parsons what they preach. 17  
Papists their patrons.  
Saint Paul wealthy. 40  
S. Paul's sentence against whoremongers. 58  
Papists washing of feet. 51  
Pilgrimages, their order, their estimation. 39  
Saint Parnell her virtue. 37  
Saint Peter the rich. 6  
Peter his book. 60 

his running to the sepulchre. 52    
Persecution of Protestants. 59  
Penance of Papists and of Christians. 34  
Poloners worshippers of the Pope. 2  
Pope how he brings the people in subjection. 4  
Power of the Church wherein it consists. 2  
Prayers of Papists. 57  
Pope how he hath brought in subjection Princes. 4  
Princes their obedience to the Pope. 4  
Popish Psalter. 57  
Purgation how the Pope useth it. 50  
Papists refuge.  
Papists count themselves kings for their shaven crowns. 25  
Pope makes no difference betwixt the Apostles, and Simon Magus. 34   

Q.  
QViermen. 16   

R.  
RVnning in Charetes.  
Radish eaten with devotion. 52  
Ratspon. 39  
S. Roke his virtue against scabs. 37  
S. Roman against Devils. 37  
Rosaries certain prayers made by Monks. 36  
Russians worshippers of the Pope. 2  
Running under stairs for fear of thunder. 42   

S.  
Sexton compelled to wear a surplice. 26  
Sickness healed by Mass. 33  
Summer a boy. 50  
Shoes of Saints showed for relics.  
Single life. 27  
Supper of the Lord why it was ordained. 31  
Supper of the Lord how the papists use it. 50.52  
Supper of the Lord changed into Mass.  
Supper of the Lord applied for merits. 32 

how many maids defiled. 31.32    
Sins forgiven to the faithful. 31  
Sins wiped away by Mass 33  
Spaniards obeyers of the Pope. 2  
Spear that slew Christ a relic. 39  
Surplis what good it doth. 26  
School masters part of the Ass 50  
School masters surplice wearers. 26  
Shrove tuesday how it is used. 48  
Sheep their Saint. 38  
Singing Cake worshipped. 53  
Saints cloaks preserved. 39  
Shearing of cloth for fear of Moths a Proverb. 41  
Hospital used in baptism.  
Steven his feast. 38  
Suffragans their office.  
Susanna her aid. 38  
Sacraments .5. devised by the Pope. 33  
Salt used in baptism. 31  
sapphire. 39  
Satisfaction. 34  
Scatmian law against lechers abrogated.  
Scots worshippers of the Pope. 2  
Silken garments offered by Pilgrims  
Sacraments only two appointed by Christ. 30  
Silence of Bells for three days. 50   

T.  
TAbles.  
Toothache what saint healeth. 38  
Twelfeday. 45  
Turks and Papists compared.  
Turks how they believe, how they think of papists, that they have more reason than Papists.  
The Papists members cannot be taken for the members of Christ.   

W.  
Wars caused by the Pope, and when. 5  
Worship of Saintes, merits of saints, their force in penance. 34  
Worshippers of themselves at Spires. 34  
Welles changed into wine. 44  
Winter a boy. 50  
Vaunt of good works. 29  
Without merits nothing. 32  
Saint Valentine his virtue. 38  
Saint Vincent his virtue. 38  
Vintner's worshippers of s. Vrban. 38  
Wine changed into the blood of Christ.  
Water changed into wine.  
S. Vitus his virtue, his feast and worship. 38  
Saint Vrban his feast, worship, and virtue. 38  
Ursula. 38  
S. Wendelin, his virtue and aid. 38  
S. Wolfgang his virtue, and aid. 38  
Whisontide. 53  
Women in childbed defended from Deviles. 57  
wheel used in showing of fasts. 36  
Willow branches cast before an Ass. 50  
Virtuous life. 19  
Whoredom. 58   
FINIS.   

Faults escaped.  
The first leaf, fifth verse, for Sceptre, read Sceptre.  
The sixth leaf, eleventh verse, for whore, read whore.  
The eight leaf, second verse, for dranes, read drones.  
The ninth leaf, verse 27 for show, read shoe.  
The tenth leaf, verse the seventh, for wood, read hood.  
The twelfth leaf, verse 61 for Damocratus, read Democritus.  
The thirteenth leaf, verse the first, for Great, read greek.  
The same leaf, verse .26. for doth, read to.  
The sixteen leaf, verse .17. For Damassus, read Damasus.  
The .19. leaf, verse .69. for. In darkness lives? more needeth it the light. etc.  
Read thus. In darkness doth it live? more needs the light of holy men.  
The twenty leaf, verse .62. For should, read told.  
The .21. leaf, verse .37. for or, read all.  
The .26. leaf, verse 50▪ for cheerly, read clearly.  
The same leaf, verse .63. For Luke wrought, read Luke wrote.  
The .55. leaf, verse 28. For the last he takes, read the taste he takes.  
The .44. leaf, verse .3. For steates, read streets.  
The .48 leaf, verse 38. For Scent read sent.  
The .56 leaf, verse .6. For their heap deceives, read their hope deceives.  
The last leaf, the first side, and .29. live. For so it is, read so is it.   

¶ To the right honourable and worthy Lords, the governors and Senate of Bern, Thomas Naogeorgus wisheth. etc.  
WHEN AS I UNDERSTOOD (right honourable Lords) your common wealth to be thoroughly furnished and beautified, not only with good laws, and ordinances, but also with pure religion & sound doctrine, and pleasantly to flourish with all honest and virtuous studies, I can scarcely express how joyful it was unto me: and so much the more, because you have determined to give no place at all to the adversaries of God's truth, who now do labour with the uttermost of their force, to darken the light of Christ, and to bring in again the stinking and contagious mists of false and idolatrous religion. This surely is the steadfastness of the known & ascertain truth, from which in these days (the more pity) have great numbers withdrawn theirselves, either for fear, or hope of living & reward, than which can nothing be more wicked, nor of more force to the establishing of ungodliness. For according to the saying of saint Peter, far better were it for a man never to have known the truth, than after he hath entered the path of true godliness to forsake the truth for any cause, and refusing Christ to cleave to the illusions of Satan. For what thing do our adversaries more shoot at, than to accuse us of lightness and unfaithfulness, and more and more to entangle us with their errors and enticements? Woe be to the world for offences, saith our saviour Christ. What commendation, and how great a glory it is in so many storms and tempests, yea, in the Shipwreck of such a number, rightly to hold the helm, and to give neither place to wind nor wave, no man there is but knows. This glory of your common wealth, I do more a great way esteem, than if you had brought in subjection some mighty and large dominion, because that earthly things with heavenly things and truth (which is Christ) with the world are not to be compared, and earthly things, be we pleased or displeased, will we, or nill we, must shortly be foregone. But the truth remains, and shall keep you for ever. Go therefore happily forward (right worthy Governors) having obtained such virtue and constancy.  
For thus to heaven do we go, as the Poet in a far more base and other thing affirmeth. Greatly beholding unto you are all those that love and worship our Lord jesus Christ, but especially the people that are under your government: Considering their neighbours round about them dwelling in darkness, they enjoy the most sweet and comfortable light of the Gospel, and that thorough your wisdom, council, authority, steadfastness, and of long time great care in advancing the Gospel of God. I wish therefore well from the bottom of my heart, both to you and your common wealth, and minding to declare my good will towards you, I found nothing meeter than to dedicated this present work unto you, that if it shall happen to come unto our posterity, your commendable and careful diligence in setting forth the Gospel may not be passed in silence. Neither do I doubt but that (according to your accustomed gentleness) you will take in good part this my poor labour and good will. The Lord jesus long preserve both you and your government in prosperous estate.  
From Campidun the first of March. 1550.   

The spiritual Husbandry. The first Book.  
OF holy husbandmen, and of the art we mind to sing,  
That mortal minds doth till, & blinded breasts to good doth bring,  
What noisome plants out of the hearts corrupted thou shalt weed  
Before that of the Gospel there thou sowste the joyful séed:  
And how the fields are to be dressed, and eke the certain way,  
To keep the seed in safety, so as it do not decay,  
Nor that the prince of hell abroad the cockle fowl do fling,  
Or of the lewdness of the ground, or faulty soil it spring.  
Herein unknown to Poets old, that long agone did writ,  
O Christ the perfit son of God, and father's Image right,  
Grant me thine aid: for wisdom all from thee alonely springs,  
And worthy Poets through thy help, have written worthy things.  
Thy own affairs are had in hand, of this so sacred pain,  
Thou art the cause, for it belongs unto thy heavenly reign:  
Thou sends the husbandmen and art the ploughman's chiefest aid,  
The blessed corn that springeth up, shall in thy barns be laid.  
And you most worthy sovereign Lords, and chosen father's grave,  
That in this age above the rest, the chiefest honour have,  
For learning and religion pure, of Muses taking charge,  
As Bern your Country doth declare, and all your Empire large.  
For there true godliness is taught, and Christ and faith withal,  
And place assigned to virtuous wits, and studies liberal.  
You are not (as a great sort are) of Christ ashamed awhit,  
That here amongst a thousand foes, in blinded world doth sit,  
And calleth all men in the end unto his heavenly reign,  
Accept these simple verses here, and favour this my pain.  
At first the almighty father framed the world, and mortal kind,  
In perfit state, and yielding fruit such as himself assigned,  
Who wholly gave themselves to him with all their force and might,  
For first of all within their hearts, he sowed a knowledge right:  
And gave them reason to discern in every kind of thing,  
That in the foaming seas, or air, or on the earth doth spring.  
Thus when the passing force of his almighty name did shine,  
He placed in man a dreadful fear, of his estate divine.  
Which lest it caused fearful flight, or stirred up deadly hate,  
He joined a pleasant love withal of his excelling state:  
Whereby the fear and reverence of his mighty majesty,  
With fellowship of fervent love might safely guided be.  
For with himself he framed man, both Lord of earth and seas,  
And after death to live with him in everlasting ease:  
Providing him to feed upon the fruit of every tree,  
And pleasant herbs, that so he might his careful mercy see.  
Who would not with his heart esteem and love with all his mind,  
A Lord so good and gracious, and of so gentle kind?  
Yet lest that cause of fear should want, and favour breed disdain,  
And to much wealth inflame his heart, and prick his idle brain:  
He gave him one commandment, to bar him of his will,  
That is, he should not taste the tree of knowing good or ill:  
Except they would their life forego, and loose these gifts of grace.  
Besides all this he planted in the deepest of their mind,  
That unto other creatures to, of nature was assigned,  
That they ne should with hate pursue their kind, nor overthrow,  
But with a friendly faithful heart each other friendship show,  
And give advice what best to do, and mischief how to let,  
Such happy seeds in heart of man at first were deeply set,  
By him that all thing here did frame, and thus he left this field  
Of own accord, his pleasant fruits and good increase to yield.  
But straight the Stygyan Prince that late from skies was headlong thrown  
For proud presumptuous mutiny & trespass erst unknown,  
Both hating God himself above, and all his virtuous deeds,  
Began to frown and lower on man, and on these pleasant seeds:  
Determining these plants plucked up, to sow contrary grain.  
And taking on himself the shape and cloak of Serpent plain,  
Our father first he doth persuade, to break the sacred hest,  
That so he might both ra●e and pluck due fear from out his breast,  
And cease the love and certain hope of God's assistance known,  
Whereby the ground disordered might with weeds be overgrown.  
Ne failed he of his purpose here, for why the woman's heart  
Consented straight to tast● the 〈◊〉, and gave her husband part.  
As ground that long hath lain untilled, is filled e●ery where  
With humblockes, thorns, and thistles sharp, and other hurtful gear:  
So was the mind of man oppressed with mischiefs fowl and great,  
And harmful things deserving death, had there abiding seat.  
The knowledge of th'almighty Lord with darkness was disgraced,  
Our judgement eke in worldly things, with blindness great defaced.  
Both fear and reverence due to God, were banished clean away,  
Love cold, and hope of help divine did utterly decay.  
In place whereof sprang hate, and flight, contempt of God beside,  
And nothing that was good or right, the will corrupt applied.  
If any good desire by chance, of virtue moves the mind,  
The force doth straight begin to fail, in slothful body blind:  
And sin provokes to greater crime, not suffering them aright  
To run their race, but moves against the Lord both day and night.  
Nor needful is it much to move, for of his proper sway,  
Like Lead he always headlong falls, and runs the hurtful way.  
Dost thou not see how leaving God, his honour here we give  
To trifles vain, and wretched men that on the earth do live?  
If that a king that may to day, or else to morrow die,  
receive us into favour great, and give us honour high,  
Or if of glistering gold we have abundance in our hands,  
Or have our bags with silver full, to purchase Lordly lands,  
Or jewels great, or precious stones, or costly rich array,  
And friends in number great about us devil and bear the sway,  
Or store of lusty soldiers have, to encounter with the foe:  
O Lord how then we look aloft, how stately then we go?  
And think ourselves in happy case, and blest on every side,  
How foully doth our filth appear, to him that all doth guide?  
With most men for their God alone, the belly here is thought,  
And every thing as it commands, is either shunned or sought.  
Some place a lo●t on altars hie the sharpness of their wit,  
And some the bodies force, and as a God they worship it.  
But no man laboureth so the will of God for to obey,  
As all men do for trifles vain, that fade and pass away.  
Of God's innumerable sort are found, by fear and love,  
And in the mean time he despised that reigns and rules above.  
What mischief can be found, but doth from blinded ignorance spring?  
Or what contempt of God? to swear is thought a decent thing.  
With Gods most dreadful name above, both men and children play,  
And difference none is made betwixt the laws divine, and lay.  
What God commandeth to be shunned, or willeth to be wrought,  
Is to the ears a torment great, and dreadful poison thought.  
Nor unto him they seek for aid, nor confidence they have,  
But rather seek to stocks and stones, than him that all doth save.  
No honour to their parents due, at any time they pay,  
A hell it is to feel the yoke, or master to obey.  
The mind desires to run at large, and range at liberty,  
The blood doth boil about the hearts of such as harmed be:  
And slaughters great attempted are, and deadly battles fought,  
And at the wagging of a straw, good laws are set at naught.  
Beside both vile and beastly love in every place doth reign,  
That none can keep the holy rites of sacred bed from stain.  
The Harlots eke among themselves, their bodies do defile:  
Who can declare the shameful theft, and ways for to beguile,  
That commonly with youth doth spring? deceit doth most delight,  
And sweet it seems an others goods to get against all right.  
And look what wants in doing wrong, with force and wretched will,  
Is recompensed with railing mouth, and spiteful language ill.  
The teeth together gnash, and poison fowl abroad do spit,  
As well against the unworthy, as such as deserved it.  
Dissension sown, and lies abroad in every place do reign,  
And filthy talk, and words unclean, are used of wretches vain.  
The simple man deceived still, with words that feigned be,  
And from the heart the flattering tongue doth always disagree.  
As raging seas with boisterous winds do swell aloft and roar,  
And drive the mountains of their waves against the rocken shore:  
Even so the wretched fiend of man, both every day and night,  
Spews out his filth, and joys to offend the sovereign Lord of light.  
Ne thinks he meet for him it is to sleep, to drink, to eat,  
Except he do before commit, some heinous trespass great.  
Thus in the heart of man the prince of hell had sown his seeds,  
And overgrown his precious plants, with his ungracious weeds,  
And had oppressed godliness, while it was yet but green,  
That scarcely any where the steps of virtue might be seen.  
And brought unto the Chains of death, and misery all their days.  
Men first created unto life, and to th'almighties praise.  
Poor Adam spoiled of his grace, in naked plight and bore,  
perceived straight this hellish seed and never ceasing care.  
Wherefore in Figtrée vesture clad, himself by flight he hides,  
Both doubting of the mercy of God, and of his life besides.  
Whose sight he shoonnes, and eke his voice he quaketh for to hear,  
As doth the Chicken of the Kite, or Ox of Lion near.  
And surely underneath the yoke of death and dreadful sin,  
Both he and his posterity, for evermore hath been:  
But that th'almighty Lord above took pity of his case,  
And gave against the devils thorns, and seed of cursed grace,  
A remedy, an other seed, his blessed word divine,  
And promise' of his favour made, how that in after time,  
A holy virtuous man and strong, should rise and succour bring,  
And tread upon the serpent's head, and cease his deadly sting.  
And purge away the sins of man, though loss he do sustain,  
Not void of overpoyse, but with his profit great and gain,  
Commanded Adam for to sow this in his sense unsound,  
To oppress thereby (if that he could not pluck out of the ground)  
The deep set roots that Satan's hand had planted there afore,  
And so become a husbandman for him and others more,  
That after sprang, and so resist by all the means he may,  
The serpent still with earnest prayer, and with a perfit way:  
And for to teach from hand to hand, to his posterity,  
The art and all the whole effect of holy husbandry,  
The coming of the blessed seed, and promises divine,  
That godliness and hope of life might still remain in time,  
And be preserved in the world: and that he never yield,  
And boldly meet the prince of hell, and face him in the field.  
He joying in the word of God, and in his happy state,  
Of skilful perfit husbandman that he received of late,  
Withstood the devil well, and dressed his heart with tillage due,  
And plucked out nettles, thistles, and each other weeds that grew.  
And found again the love of God, whereof he felt the smell  
And in the virtuous order of his life declared it well.  
The fruit of righteousness he looude, and all that in him lay,  
Repressed the raging of the flesh, and caused it to'bay,  
He hated every wicked act, and every sinful lore,  
That was displeasing unto God, and all his sins before  
With prayer and streams of perfit tears, he wiped and washed away,  
And all his hope and confidence, in Christ doth surely lay.  
This same unto his wife he taught, and to his children dear,  
And all his offspring every one unto his latest year:  
And then to Seth he left the plough, who eke committed it  
To Enock, that applied it well, with all his force and wit,  
And sowed the word and faith abroad, with lucky fruitful hand,  
And so did all the younger sort that after aught the land.  
Old Satan hating all this while, the seed so promised,  
The chief estéemers of the same, and faithful brotherhood,  
And seeking all men for to draw unto th'infernal reign,  
Applied himself with all his force, and all his hellish train,  
To overthrow these father's deeds, and all their work to spoil,  
And under cloak of truth with lies, he poisons all the soil:  
And in the steed of Godly fear, he sinful life revives,  
With heaps of vice, and Godly seeds to spoil again he strives.  
And now amid the pleasant corn the pricking thistle flows,  
And graceless cockle loathsome to the eye it overgrowes.  
Sometime the raging storms of hail doth beat it to the ground,  
And often consuming worms, and drake, and darnel there is found,  
Or mildews fowl, or storms of rain, or heat, or frosty colds,  
Sometime a sunder cracks the plough, while Camock strongly holds.  
Not much the plowmen then prevailed, and Cain did first beginn●  
To hate his father's husbandry, and sow the seeds of sin:  
Whom all his issue followed fast, as one of greatest skill,  
And better fruit might not be seen, than this so lewd and ill,  
Nor godliness was to be found in all the world so wide,  
So that th'almighty father drowned both man and earth beside,  
And every creature having life, as justly they deserved,  
Save one poor Bark, that in the floods of mercy he preserved.  
What should I all things call to mind? the world renewed again,  
Not long regarded virtuous words, but followed pleasures vain.  
Each godly thing was lothde and left, as men did fast increase,  
So all things waxed worse and worse, and virtue 'gan to cease.  
Although the guide of heaven and earth, did evermore provide,  
For husbandmen and prophets good, and sent his son beside,  
In vesture clad of fading flesh, of workmen all the chief,  
And author of our life: who though he sent for our relief,  
His messengers and servants forth abroad in every place,  
To teach the perfit art and way, and sow the seeds of grace:  
Yet of the dreadful dragon black prevailed much the heed,  
To tread and stamp in every place upon this sacred séed.  
The seeds of Gods triumphant word, were never so largely sown,  
Nor covered in the heart of man, nor virtue better grown,  
Nor in so many places seen such store of goodly grain,  
As when these holy Messengers, and their disciples plain,  
Did teach in every place abroad the art of husbandry,  
And trod the steps of virtuous life for their posterity.  
But straight the enemy poisoned all, and brought it unto this,  
That godliness in few remained, and most men ran amiss,  
And put not for eternal life in Christ their only trust,  
So many weeds of heresies among the corn he thrust,  
And monstrous droves of ravening wolves, such fierce debate & strife,  
So many superstitions vain, and such deformed life.  
Now these with raging furious heat, he causeth for to start:  
Now those with frosty colds congealed, he nippeth to the heart.  
And look how much this wretched world to end doth nearer grow,  
So much the more he strives the reign of Christ to overthrow:  
And with his filthy seed, the heart of man to cast away,  
Nor much he forceth them herein, that fall by proper sway.  
The old remains of sinful rock, is unto him an aid,  
So is the lusting force of flesh, with reign and head unstaid.  
Against these ills the ruler of the lofty heavens bright,  
Sends out his learned labourers, that overturning quite  
All wickedness, and driving hence the darkness far away,  
True godliness may plain appear, and virtue bear the sway.  
And every one with heart and might, his holy will obey,  
And follow perfit righteousness, and hate the wicked way.  
By whom they may restore the hearts, where Satan had his seat,  
Even as to let of wonted course the running river great,  
And make it pass the mountains hie, or else to quench the flame  
That entered hath the driest woods, and rageth in the same.  
The pain is great to labour thus against the sturdy streams,  
Or for to bend the aged bough grown hard with Phoebus' beams.  
And as the pains are great, so great rewards thou shalt enjoy,  
When Christ shall shed the stinking Goats that did his flock annoy.  
When as the dreadful day of doom, and clearest light shall shine,  
That shall reveal how every man hath wrought and spent his time.  
And therefore shrink not for no pains, if that thou mindst the skies,  
If that thou séekste to see the face of God with happy eyes.  
But who deserves so great a gain, and such a stately charge?  
Or who is meet to till and dress a soil so fair and large?  
As no man takes the Oars in hand, nor thrusts the plough in ground,  
Or guides the sailing ship on sea, or Captain may be found,  
Except he wise and active be, and taught his skill in time:  
So none can out of hand be meet to till the soil divine.  
His pattern and his fashion eke, my Muses let us see,  
And how from youth in every point, he framed aught to be:  
What kind of man in all respects, and after let us tell,  
The manner how he aught to teach, and order all things well.  
First let the favour of his face be good, and countenance clear,  
Not stained with loathsome coloured mole, nor speckled here and there,  
Nor mangled any where with cuts, nor let his head be high,  
Or piked like a Sugerlofe, not set with hanging eye,  
As lowering Bulls are always marked, ne let them hollow be,  
Deep settled in their darkened dens, no Cocles let us see,  
Nor any blearde or squinteyde mate, no hooked hawkish beak,  
Nor short and apish turned up nose, nor pipers puffed up choke,  
Nor toothde like dogs: who knows not eke that tilers may not be  
Dumb, deaf, or lame, or stammerers, or such as cannot see?  
Away with broken limping legs, and halting hips beside,  
No mowlehill carried on the back, nor wens the throat to hide.  
No lynmie nor member let there want, but all in order due,  
And in proportion comely framed, and pleasant to the view.  
Lest Vulcan with his crooked pace delight the scornful sort,  
Or with some other fault or maim, do make the people sport,  
Resembling Thersit in his look, or else Corites face,  
Or Esope in his loathsome shape, or Damon in his grace.  
Ne let him of a harlot be borne of unhonest fame,  
By common rut as beasts do use, or villains void of shame.  
This also must be looked unto, what trade his parents used,  
If no reproachful kind of art that aught to be refused,  
They lived upon, for trade of life doth often hinder much,  
And let the word, that as it should the heart it cannot touch.  
Of these things also other causes mayst thou many bring,  
For though it lies not in our power, and though it be a thing  
We can not do withal nor help, what shape soever fall,  
By fowl mishap or parent's fault, yet he that governs all,  
Createth nothing here in vain. For if the fashion right  
Of things be altered here from good, and nature changed quite,  
It doth declare some great mishap, and is a perfit sign  
Of Gods appointed punishment, and of his wrath divine.  
If that the same be stained with black, against his nature clear,  
Or that the moon before the full eclipsed do appear:  
If in the glistering starry night, a blazing star do rise,  
And armed men in clouds appear, and skirmish in the skies:  
If suddenly the sun do stay, or Planets runs awry:  
If dreadful streams of blood do gush and fall from heavens high:  
Or if amid the market place a savage Wolf do stand,  
Or beast do speak, who can suppose that goodness is at hand?  
Who fears not straight the wrath of God, or who that hath his wit,  
Will not conceive some great mischance to happen after it?  
Both nature and examples eke persuades us to the same,  
The Grecians eft the signs of God have felt of ancient fame.  
The like in many overthrows the Romans proud have known,  
Nor rashly seemed the ore to warn, that Rome should keep her own.  
Sagunthus sacked, and all her men in cruel order slain,  
Did show the infant entered not his mother's womb in vain:  
Did not the armies, sword, and cart, that God in clouds did send,  
Foreshow hierusalem's decay, and miserable end?  
And Xerxes might in field before his legs for flight prepare,  
When as a Mare amongst his camp did fool a flying Hare.  
The monstrous foling of a M●yle beside, did plainly show  
The lofty walls of Babylon should have an overthrow.  
We all abhor these monstrous births, as nature us doth move,  
And seldom after them is seen, doth any goodness prove.  
But most of all if women chance, such monstrous shapes to bear,  
If nature fail in those that are the worldly rulers hear.  
For sure the outward countenance doth declare the inward mind,  
And what lies hid in secret sense, of good or ill we find.  
Of any foul ill favoured face, what lookest thou for but ill?  
And who doth not his talk abhor, and shun his presence still?  
For these misshapen folks unto themselves or other men,  
Betoken harm, or else a sign of froward wit in them.  
Therefore let not our husbandman be shaped ill favouredly,  
Nor any such whose parents have been stained with infamy.  
And if it might be done, I would (a thing we seldom see)  
That in his tender youth he should in virtue trained be,  
And from his childhood learn to love the Lord, and him to dread,  
And evermore commit himself to Christ his sovereign head:  
And worship him with harmless heart, in deed and word always,  
And seek the thing that most may sound to his most worthy praise.  
Likewise to pray that from the skies the blessed holy sprite  
On him may fall: by whom he may teach Christ to all men right.  
Let him to parent's duty show, and honour learn to give  
To each man as his place requires, and as he here doth live.  
I would beside he should be kept with virtuous company,  
And shun the graceless sort of youth, that use to prate and lie▪  
Lest that his fellows him infect with manners lewd and ill,  
That hardly after will be le●t for any care or skill.  
The die that wool doth first receive, will hardly out be got,  
No more than on the Tables new the first deformed spot.  
And this beside importeth much, if that the parents hear,  
The nurse, and eke the schoolmaster be good, and Christ do fear.  
Thus would I have him live with men that good and virtuous be▪  
In youngest years, when as you list you bow the tender tree.  
And filthy words he may not hear, nor use at any time,  
Nor with his eyes behold the thing that may to ill incline.  
Besides in Country language must he have a perfit skill,  
And remedy be had, if that his words he utter ill.  
Nor only in the vulgar tongue he must be thoroughly seen,  
But also in the fountains sweet of Latin phrases clean,  
And taught the best grammarians that old or new have been,  
And read the purest writers first, as Cato teacheth him,  
And hear the best, lest barbarousness do him in youth infect,  
Which once a man, he must forsake and utterly reject.  
The Roman speech doth profit much, as openly is seen,  
Which of all other languages, in Europe is the Queen.  
The ancient Romans as they did their Empire large extend,  
Unto the frosty Northern pole, where earth doth seem to end,  
And to the floods of Euphrates, and mighty Parthians reign,  
To foot of lofty Atlas' mount, that doth the skies sustain:  
So was their tongue through all the world dispersed here and there,  
And for their sceptre and their sword, was reurenst every where.  
For in this tongue the subjects all their answer ever had,  
And all their proud Edicts and laws, in this were likewise made.  
And hitherto wheresoever the Empire large of Rome doth reign,  
In estimation is it had, and honour great doth gain.  
Besides it famous is for holy books and works profane,  
Wherein to have no skill, were to our husbandman a shame.  
By this we tread the path that leads to every science high,  
Whereto by vulgar speech, we never can approach so nigh.  
For this same cause, and for the learned and godly writers sake,  
That long time since in teaching Christ, did pains and travail take.  
Let him the Grecians tongue peruse: and for the volumes grave  
Of Moses and the Prophet's old, the Hebrew let him have.  
And join thereto the Chaldean speech: the water that is shed  
Thorough many vessels, cools not so as doth the fountains head.  
Each thing himself let him peruse, and know the speech divine,  
And not depend on other men, to preach as they assign.  
Therefore let him apply the tongues, wherein were first enrolled▪  
The holy laws that God did give unto our father's old.  
And weigh the rules and title● well, and what each word doth mean●  
Know perfitly, that in the phrase he may be thoroughly seen.  
For of the name a knowledge great in matters often is found,  
And fond it is for men to talk, and not to know their ground.  
Wherein a number great of men have moved the skilful sort,  
To laugh to scorn their ignorance, whereof they made a sport.  
For as in all things, names and words do greatly signify,  
So most of all in scriptures where both often and commonly,  
The letters small and little pricks, do mysteries contain,  
Which no good man will slightly way or count as matters vain.  
The figures and the divers tropes that in these speeches are,  
Let him beside well understand, for often the sense they mar  
That are unskilful in the same, whereby they utter lies  
Unto the simple common sort in steed of verities.  
Whence springs such heaps of errors now as at this day do reign▪  
Or hurly burlies that do rage among the people vain:  
But only that a great sort are, so to the letters bound,  
As can no Metaphor allow, nor any figure sound?  
Of this must mischief needs ensue, no tropes yet I allow,  
Except the text require the same, or charity avow.  
For in the scripture certainty the people must be taught,  
And one thing still that they may know, what good and what is nought.  
Nor meet it is to force the phrase, to senses many more,  
When nothing doth compel thee from the very words to go,  
Lest things assured be doubtful made, and charity be broke,  
Nor any phrase may judged be by figure to be spoke,  
Except the same in other place be open told and plain,  
For else to think a mystery in figure hid is vain.  
That speech doth most delight the ears, and wins the people's praise  
That sundry sorts is varied often, and turned a thousand ways.  
But thou take heed thou dost not wrist, the text out of his kind,  
Nor play with holy scriptures, for to please thy foolish mind:  
Which now is used of many men, a dreadful thing to see.  
Consider thou and ponder well, what thing may meetest be,  
And profit most the common sort, and rude unruly train,  
Before that thou delight their ears, or play with them in vain.  
Not only old Palaemon's art, our husbandmen must have,  
But great Chrysippus cunning to, and skill of Zeno grave,  
Not therewithal to scold or brawl, as school men use to play,  
Or to beguile the simple sort, and wipe the truth away:  
But better to defend the darts of deadly enemy,  
Or for to break the snares and gins of such as teach awry.  
For theirs it is above the rest to answer all men here,  
That question move of faith and hope, or doubts that do appear,  
To keep their doctrine and their flock, against the greedy wolf.  
Now if they know the snares and traps, and depth of every goolfe▪  
And easily can discern the truth, and falsehood put away,  
Then still the truth they shall preserve, and never it betray,  
Nor cause it to be jested at, nor for to suffer wrong.  
For if to mortal misers here, destruction doth belong,  
That know not Christ the saviour high, nor his religion pure:  
What shall we of the teachers think, whose want of skill procure,  
Not to themselves alone, but to a hundred thousand more,  
By error harm, who led to hell by their persuasion go.  
Who doubts that reading of the works of famous Cicero,  
Is needful for our husbandman, and well agreeing tho,  
The art of speaking fair and plain, this meetest is to know,  
The pleasant filled speech that from the learned breast doth flow,  
The quick and well persuading tongue, that knows well how to deal▪  
What matters secret for to keep, and what for to reveal:  
And to observe the change of time the persons and the place,  
This is the plough of husbandmen, that riddeth work apace.  
Let children out of order prate, and people gape and gale,  
It doth beseem a preacher well, by art to frame his tale.  
Nor any thing against us hear the mind of Paul doth make,  
Nor yet unlearned kind of words, that Christ's Apostles spoke.  
Where divers causes ever be (as hath been always said)  
Effects are divers to be seen, and to be thoroughly weighed.  
We may not therefore follow them, in every thing aright,  
Since that our causes differ much, and case is altered quite.  
Who knoweth not that otherwise we always aught to speak,  
Unto the learned and skilful sort, than to the young and weak?  
The first beginnings of our faith, they did the Gentiles teach,  
Which needed not a filled phrase, and curious tongue to preach,  
But rather of the power of God to move them thereunto.  
Wherefore the Lord did give them power, great wonders for to do.  
That might unto the word give force, though learning were away,  
That thus persuaded to the faith, they could not truly say  
That eloquence had trained them for to believe on Christ,  
But that it was the holy spirit and virtue of the highest.  
Beside the principles may not be taught, by curious art or wit,  
Nor needs a Rhethoricians tongue in the persuading it.  
But steadfastly we must believe the first beginnings well,  
Therefore it is but vain, a fine and pleasant tale to tell,  
Unto the rude unskilful sort, that do the grounds deny,  
As of no miracles they need, nor wonders from the sky,  
That know the true and certain path, and after Christ have sought,  
But from the Cradle, Christ and his decrees to us are taught.  
In these our tender years we need plain words, not lofty speech,  
But rather aid of holy spirit, and faithful man to teach.  
But after Christ and faith is got, then use the ●●nest kind,  
Of Rhetoric, and colours all, to move the slothful mind.  
Inflame their hearts with love of Christ, and God continually,  
Persuade them wickedness to hate and all Idolatry:  
And virtue always to embrace, in goodness to delight,  
And wickedness to shun and hate, and every sinful sight,  
To leave their hard and flinty hearts, provoking God to ire,  
To fear the threatenings of his word, and everlasting fire:  
To shed their saltish tears for sin, and all their confidence  
On God's great mercy for to set (who pardons each offence)  
Assured of his favour great, extolling him always:  
On this bestow thy Rhetoric, and all that thou canst say.  
And likewise if thou chosen be, to fight against the train  
Of Satan, errors to suppress, and truth for to maintain.  
For though as sharp and fiery sword, the word of God we see,  
Doth pierce into the deepest part of hardest hearts that be:  
And as a heavy hammer great, breaks all that doth withstand,  
Yet is the force increased much, by help of perfit hand:  
Even as the wound is deeper cut, that stronger hand doth make,  
And sooner break the stone, which maul with stronger arm doth shake.  
Use Rhetoric therefore husbandman, and set thy whole delight,  
In furthring of the word of God with all thy force and might.  
For Paul among the perfit sort, did deeply still entreat,  
And fed the weaker sort with milk, refusing stronger meat.  
What should I show how eloquent they were, and eke how fine,  
That wrote their worthy volumes near unto the Apostles time.  
Choose where thou likest among the Greeks, or all the Latin routs,  
None hateth Rhetoric certainly, but slothful drowsy lowtes,  
And gorbellyes that evermore do set their whole delight,  
In living lazily at home, and sleeping day and night.  
Our husbandman must yet attempt, the other studies all,  
That termed are of ancient men, the learnings liberal,  
None of the things that here to God or man belonging be,  
Are void of number dealt withal. Th'almighty majesty  
Framed each thing with his perfit poised, and numbered every thing,  
The art of numbering pleasant is, and profit great doth bring.  
In this alone from brutish beasts, we men do differ here,  
So would th'almighty king, when first he made us rule to bear,  
And Lords of all things that he framed, appointed us to be,  
That perfitly we might peruse each thing in his degree,  
That in the skies or earth he made, each thing he did divide,  
Both generally, particular, and minutes small beside:  
That weighing so his wondrous works, and using well the same,  
We should extol his worthiness, and praise his holy name.  
The skill of heavenly motions eke, doth to the same incline,  
Than which amongst us men there is, no knowledge more divine,  
Nor more that brings us to the love, of God himself above,  
Nor farther lifts us from the earth, and to the skies doth move.  
Who wonders not to see the Sun and Moon continually,  
To keep their course, and planets fair, and glistering stars in sky,  
And praiseth not the hand of God, that them did thus created,  
And doth not count himself to be in passing happy state?  
Who shall enjoy that blessed house, whose walls so outward shine,  
With Princely beauty garnished, and figures framed fine?  
For needs he must suppose, that greater things remain within,  
Nor in he here deceived, for neither eye hath ever seen,  
Nor ear hath heard, nor any heart of mortal man might deem,  
The joys that God prepared hath, for such as him esteem.  
Wherefore a pleasant study sure, and aptest for our mind,  
Is this that doth the skies behold, and stars of every kind.  
Our countenance seems to prove the same, that lifted up a high,  
Is framed as it appointed were for to behold the sky.  
Beside it standeth man in steed for many uses here,  
For whose behoof the Lord hath made, each thing that doth appear.  
By face of heaven, and moving of the Moon and Phoebus crown,  
And by the three fold rising of the stars and going down.  
The Lord divided times, and did appoint the day and night,  
The change of years and months and hours, both equal & unright.  
And set them signs of winter black, and of the cheerful spring,  
Of burning Summer, and the time that ripest fruits doth bring,  
Of weather fair and fowl or storms and tempests that arise,  
And tokens for the Mariner that on the water lies,  
And for the husbandman that in the ground his seed doth sow:  
Hereto the Northern Pole doth serve, the bear and bearward slow,  
The monstrous Wain of Charles, the Goat and little Kids withal,  
And Hyades that tempest shows, when as they rise or fall:  
Orion eke that winter brings, with sword and dreadful face,  
And underneath his feet the Hare, whom Syrian Cur doth chase,  
And many other goodly stars, and pictures in the sky,  
Besides the twelve familiar signs that in the Zodiac lie.  
These aught our husband man to know, and thoroughly to peruse,  
Because of holy scripture, and that often they come in use.  
And lest he should not understand, the things that even those  
That rude and common people be, are able to disclose.  
I suffer not the Chaldeyes here, ne yet the Aradians vain,  
Who think that every thing is wrought, by force of starry reign,  
And fearful in their matters, weigh what sign doth upward spring,  
dividing all the heavens great (a strange and monstrous thing)  
To houses twelve, and boldly than their figure up they rear,  
Assigning to the Lord of birth, each man's conditions here.  
Than Planets please, and marking how their fond asspects do run,  
The buzzards blind do straight ways judge what good or ill to come?  
How short or long his life shall be, that than the mother bears,  
What wealth he shall obtain, and how, and in what space of years,  
What brethren, and what sisters, or what parents he shall have,  
What masters, or what sicknesses, and when he goes to grave.  
They likewise of his marriage judge, what wife he shall obtain,  
And in what sort she shall be got, with pleasure, or with pain.  
Then of his honesty they deem, and his dishonest life,  
What friendship he shall always find, what hatred, or what strife.  
Besides, of signs they monstrous things and wonders do declare,  
Appointing of the lineaments of man to each his share,  
Without the which they may not touched, or ever moved be,  
Whereon both death depends they say, and life in their degree.  
Then to the seven wandering stars, they houses do assign  
Perhaps for fear of banishment, when here or there they climb.  
And which of them are hot or cold, or do with moistness flow,  
Which dry, or which are swift in course, or which in moving slow,  
Which black, or white, or yellow are, which green or read do shine,  
Which of them of the women's sex, or which are masculine.  
These things they boldly do affirm, and with as sober grace,  
As if they late from heaven came, and saw it face to face.  
What should I tell how they prescribe an hour for every thing?  
And with their superstitions, fear on feeble hearts do bring?  
They teach how that it is not good, this day or that to sow,  
Nor for to trim the barren fields, nor cut the woods that grow,  
Nor for to plant or cut the vines, nor houses for to make,  
Nor wane the little sucking child, nor men to friendship take,  
Nor for to cut or shave the beard, nor for to dress the hands,  
Nor for to pass from place to place, nor visit other land.  
Nor for to beat the bush for bird, nor bait the fisher's hook,  
Nor for to chase the fearful heart, nor teach the child his book,  
Nor for to take a wife, nor once at Cards or Dice to play,  
Nor for to keep thy word, nor thought, nor borrowed things to pay,  
Nor to dispute of any thing, nor take the law in hand,  
Nor for to cut the bleeding vain, nor seek the healing hand,  
To break no young untamed horse, nor Geldings for to make,  
To been no jewels, nor no land, nor any bargain take:  
To send no posts nor messengers, to bear thy friend thy mind,  
To cut no hear, nor poll the head, nor sand thy corn to grind,  
Not for to dig or deal with mines, nor houses fair to make,  
Nor lately built to devil therein, nor servants for to take,  
Nor battle to begin, nor meet in field the furious fo,  
Nor on the surging seas in Bark for any thing to go.  
Who can remember all their toys, a hell they here do frame,  
While nothing can be done, except the skies permit the same?  
Such prophets blind I do not like, that in their foolish trance,  
Persuade the common people fond, that this or that shall chance:  
In giving all things to the stars, that none alive can know,  
Nor any reason nor experience perfitly can show.  
I give them leave that worldly are, such folly for to use,  
Wherewith themselves and other men, they fond may abuse.  
But for the other perfit is, and causes certain be,  
That from the old experience of the world derived we see.  
Next to this knowledge is the same, that first from prick doth spring,  
And teacheth all the trade to meat and measure every thing,  
As Meadows, Pastures, Mountains great, and valleys large & wide,  
And lofty stately towers, and stars that in the skies do glide.  
A worthy pleasant art is this, for many matters meet,  
Which needs our husbandman must ●oine with other learning's sweet.  
The dearest daughter of the Muses now who dare despise,  
Or melody that in the voice, or in the finger lies?  
The cares that do consume the heart, doth Music drive away,  
And comforteth the sad, and raiseth minds that troubled lay,  
Provoketh tears, and moveth unto pity now and than,  
Which ways thou wilt doth Music draw the thought & mind of man.  
It ceaseth anger great and fierce, and fury doth withstand,  
And moves again the martial heart, to take the sword in hand,  
By Music ●owle and hurtful spirits, are often overthrown,  
And good are brought, a thing full well to ancient Prophets known.  
The force doth Music est augment, and easy make the pain,  
That workmen, shipmen, and the ploughman do full often sustain.  
The child by means of Music doth, in cradle quiet lie,  
And doth forget the mother's breast, and h●nger by and ●ie,  
The fierce Laconians when they were in battle bend to meet,  
Terpander set them all agreed, by song and Music sweet.  
Not men alone are moved with sound of sweet and pleasant note,  
But also birds and brutish beasts, and fish in floods that float.  
The lofty prancing horse we see, in Music doth rejoice,  
The unwieldy Bear doth also leap to hear his masters voice.  
Arion borne upon the back of dolphin swimming sure,  
Doth show what force in Music is, and what it can procure.  
Both mountains, woods, & haughty rocks, as ancient men do wright,  
Did follow Orphaeus for his song, and wonderful delight.  
Amphion eke the son of jove, as stories do declare,  
With Harp did cut the ragged stones, and brought them into square,  
Wherewith he built the Theban walls, and stately tower strong,  
That weighed not all the Grecians force, nor enemies sieges long.  
Th'almighty father hath assigned, to every mind a love  
Of Music sweet, and would the earth should show the works above.  
And counterfeit them in her kind, as near as here might be,  
That highest and the chiefest things, with basest might agree.  
For doubtless all the heavenly Spheres, that make so sweet a noise,  
With whirling up and down of stars, or else of angel's voice,  
That do in thousands serve the Lord, d●th to the earth let fall,  
This sweet consent that moves the mind, delights and pleaseth all.  
And as this same in sweetness far each other art exceeds:  
So aught it to be well applied with good and godly deeds:  
Not unto wanton pleasure here, nor foolish vain delight,  
As men in madness often do use, oppressed with wicked sprite.  
With good example hath the son of jesle taught us so,  
And Moses with his shining face, and many Prophets more.  
As Paul inspired with holy spirit, doth teach and will the same▪  
The Gentiles all their prayers eke, in verse did chief frame,  
And chanted up their Hymns unto their Gods in solemn plight,  
Persuaded that their feigned Saints in Music took delight.  
Our husbandman therefore must not this worthy art disdains,  
But with the chiefest seek the top of Music to attain.  
Whereby he may extol the Lord, and move the sluggish mind,  
And what if that in making of a verse he pleasure find?  
And prove a christian Poet good? the Prophet's old sometime  
Were wont to writ there works in verse, and pleasantly to rhyme.  
In verse Apollo answer gave, Religion and good laws,  
Unto the common sort were taught, in verse and Poets saws.  
By Manto, Linus, Amphiaraus, Sibills, and Orphey eke,  
The majesty was always great, in stately verse to speak.  
With this the virtuous Poets learned, did please and well entreat,  
Both simple common people rude, and worthy princes great.  
Now time it is the nature strange, and cause of things to know,  
And whatsoever learned men, in Physics erst did show.  
Although they are but laughing stocks, and dotars commonly,  
And that you sooner may the North and South together tie,  
And join unto the british shore, the Persian dignity,  
Then for to 'cause their divers minds, in one for to agree.  
Nor marvel when without the light, that from the scriptures springs,  
They rashly judge of head and end, and order right of things.  
As if a blind man in the way would make himself a guide,  
Or judge of colours which were fairest, or which were better died.  
It shall not hurt thee much these things (though fond) in hand to take,  
And lightly to peruse and see, for lies do often make  
The truth to be esteemed more, and of more for●e to show.  
Both sweet it is, and I allow the cause of things to know.  
But such as certain are, and such as no man can deny,  
Of knowledge certain ends there are, and bounds appointed lie.  
The word of God must bear the bell, and sway in every thing,  
And next to that such reasons good, as wise men here do bring,  
Must be esteemed as a troth.  
Be circumspect in every thing, if aught thou seekst to find  
Concerning heaven, world, and form, of substance, or of kind,  
Or touching fortune, place, or hap, the elaments and time,  
Of motion, thunder, wind and snow, rain, hail, or frosty rhyme.  
Whereof it comes that pleasant dews in Summer wets the spring,  
Or what procures the lightning fierce, that pierceth every thing.  
What makes the fire oftentimes, in hellish clouds to glow,  
Or why the sun in shower appearing, the rainbow straight doth show▪  
Why Moon with fog is compassed often, or how the blazing star  
Appears, that often is sign to men, of famine, death, or war:  
Wherefore the earth doth tremble so, and Cities overturn,  
And why that Phoebus oftentimes with threefold ●ace doth burn●▪  
Besides let him consider well, if that a good man may  
Believe the distance of the skies to be as they do say.  
If that the Moon so far exceed the earth in quantity,  
Or if the stars so far above the earth in bigness be,  
Or if the Lord created more than two of greatest light,  
Or any save the Sun that past the Moon in force and might.  
Moreover, land and seas peruse, and mark their nature's plain,  
And all that in the earth or air, or in the seas remain.  
But for these strange and foreign things, men aught not so to care,  
As for our nearer neighbours much, that in us dwelling are.  
Unto our proper houses therefore, let us come and see,  
What wondrous things by nature's hands in us created be,  
How much we do excel and pass, each other worldly kind,  
Whose rulers and correctors here, the Lord hath us assigned.  
What gifts of mind we do enjoy, and what of body here,  
What virtuously of us is wrought, and what doth lewd appear.  
These things are first to be perused, that we may perfitly,  
Both know ourselves, and eke the things that are to us so nigh.  
Fond is it to be wise abroad, and only for to see  
The outward things, while as at home like bussards blind we be.  
But here me thinks some last lout should say to me. O how  
Suppose you sir that meet it is your ploughman first to know  
These things, before he till his ground, and holy plough do hold:  
What say you to the Apostles than, and to the Prophet's old,  
Where ever find you that these men were learned in this sort:  
Or who would credit him that any such thing would report.  
Besides but few such plowmen could be got as you desire,  
Whereas the harvest of the Lord, doth numbers great require.  
The time hath been when men of god, without their books were taught,  
And divers suddenly by him, to state of Prophets brought.  
So fishers and unskilful men, by force of holy sprite,  
He made the teachers of the world, and shows of perfit light.  
Besides a number more of such, his mighty hand did frame,  
Not for to break dame Nature's laws, and altar quite the same,  
But for to show his mighty force, and great prerogative,  
And that he was not tied to sleeve of any thing alive.  
We may not therefore give ourselves, to gape for wonders still,  
But as the guise of men requires, we must conform our will,  
Till God do work in other sort, and other means doth give.  
In stern and barren wilderness the jews sometime did live,  
And neither plowde, nor sowed, nor reaped, in forty winter's space:  
And were not he stark mad that now would look for such a grace,  
And like an idle lubber sit, and take no kind of pain  
With hand nor foot, for him or his a living for to gain?  
Or gape to have the Ravens come, or widow at his need,  
Who at the bidding of the Lord, Helias once did feed.  
The River great of jordan once, and eke the fearful seas,  
Through might of God, and all on foot, the hebrews passed with ease.  
Now need we when we pass these floods, both dark, and 〈◊〉 & sail,  
And Tiphys eke to hold the helm, lest on the seas we avail▪  
Thus are we bound to learn whatsoever, on earth we know or see,  
That may unto the honour great of God and glory be.  
Ne must they look for idleness, that will be husbandmen,  
Lest that the Lord be tempted so, and justly plague us then,  
For our contempt and slothfulness, example here let be,  
The frantic anabaptists that in any place we see:  
Who hating books and learned arts, do count it virtue grave,  
No skill in any language, save their Country tongue to have:  
And leaping lately from the shop of Shoemakers, or such,  
Are not ashamed the Preachers place with greasy hands to touch,  
Still boasting of the holy ghost, and so with passing pride,  
They headlong throw themselves to hell, and numbers great beside,  
By teaching false and foolish things, the Prophets eke divine,  
Good Moses first in pharao's house, applied the Muses nine,  
Before he taught the word of God, or trained the jewish hearts,  
And Daniel did refuse the Chaldeans meat, but not their arts.  
Paul of a learned Doctor in jerusalem was taught,  
And not alonely in the scriptures to excel was thought,  
But in the Graecian eloquence, and sciences profane,  
Wherein to be exactly learned, he always had the name.  
With which he better armed, put the Gentiles soon to flight,  
And with these weapons of their own, he overthrew them quite.  
At Athens with Aratus words, he gave them all the foil,  
And brought against the Creteans witness of their native soil.  
A man that headlong threw himself in etna's raging flame,  
Among the people for to gain an everlasting fame.  
What good and honest is among these arts, they well may choose,  
And make them for to serve their turn, that virtuously them use.  
The Egyptians once were rob of goods, and spoiled utterly,  
To increase the treasure of the Lord, and his to beautify.  
The Gentiles faith and life we only are forbidden here,  
And not their worthy sciences and springes of learning clear,  
So that we put them to good use, and profit any ways,  
Applying them with all our force unto th'almighties praise.  
Our saviour Christ commended eke, the Scribe that well was taught,  
Resembling him unto the rich, who from his treasure brought,  
Things old and new abundantly. Yea glory doth remain  
At home for learned men that do in godliness take pain.  
As that most learned Prophet song, and plainly did declare,  
He whom the cruel Lions in their dreadful den did spare,  
Rude rustical unskilfulness deserves no praise at all,  
But loathsome is in him to whom the sacred plough shall fall.  
Who doth allow the lazy lob? where is not sloth unmeet?  
The honey gathering Bees are praised, because in spring-time sweet,  
With daily labour great they make the wholesome honey good.  
The little Ant doth frame his house with travail in the wood,  
And on his back a greater burden than himself doth lay,  
And thrusteth up his corn in cave against the winter day.  
Why should not likewise in our husbandmen such care appear,  
In those whom God appointed hath the worlds correctors here?  
Not loitering leisure here was left, but business to be done,  
Which faithful servants should apply until their master come.  
That few such servants at this time in any country be,  
Who doth not know? and eke the cause I think each man doth see.  
Some seek their own commodity, and belly well to fill,  
And some in fields of idleness, do love to linger still.  
But seldom any man t'advance the praise of Christ desires,  
Nor ways what labours great and toil, the heart of man requires.  
Therefore the fields do barren lie, and brambles thick doth bring,  
And Cockle fowl abundantly, in every place doth spring.  
The tender sheep dispersed are, and faint and sick they be,  
And feed upon the poisoned plants that in the Marsh they see.  
Yet none vouchsafes for to redress this miserable case,  
Thou wouldst suppose that all had sworn together now in place.  
The devil and the raging world, and princes of estate,  
And all the shaven plowmen here, that evermore do prate,  
And talk of Christ and boast themselves to be his servants true,  
That blinded minds of men might not with wholesome tillage due,  
Be brought unto a blessed state, nor perfit seeds be sown,  
And grateful harvest unto God, with great advantage mown.  
What wages to these servants lewd and deulish kingdom here  
Shall God assign, when on his judgement seat he shall appear?  
With patience let them look for that, and bear their own contempt,  
We mindful of our matter here, will better things attempt.  
Now must our husband frame himself a virtuous man to be.  
That both his teaching and his life, may justly here agree,  
Lest teaching others, he himself doth miss the perfit way,  
And bring the word to bide reproach, and building to decay.  
Above all things he must beware of pride and lofty mind,  
The perfit following here of Christ, who lived in lowest kind,  
(Who must be their assured mark) doth not allow the same  
In christenmen, and eke above the rest, it is a shame  
For any servant to presume above his masters 'gree,  
And for to challenge princely state, and worldly sovereignty.  
Where Christ the Lord with bloody sweat, & face with spittle stained,  
And blows, and mocks 〈◊〉 bear his cross, and cruel death sustained.  
Who hateth not Nestorius' voice, and words deserving blame?  
Or pride of Paul, the Bishop once of Antioch▪ the same▪  
That clear Orontes passeth by? who doth not here repined,  
To see the christian husbandman, the steps of Maximine  
The proud to tread, and both his hands, and stinking wretched feet.  
To let be kissed, and borne on backs of men with pomp unmeet,  
Beset about with precious stones, all clad in rich array,  
Like Persian prince or Emperor great that bears in Ind the sway.  
Let kings pursue such pomp and pride, and our poor husbandman,  
Content himself with mean estate, not looking hire than  
Confessing not alone himself a servant here in name,  
But both in countenance, weed, and voice, and life, declare the same.  
Directing all the order of his life by Christ alone,  
And making him the mark of saving health, and others none.  
There is no cause why man should swell with pride, or such disdain,  
For noble blood, or wealthy state, or shape of body vain,  
Or troop of men, or learned show, or titles gotten grave,  
Or any other kind of thing. (For what is all we have?)  
Since that we were created here, with all that in us lies,  
Each one to be an others help, which if we do despise,  
And look aloft with haughty mind, and think to bear a sway,  
The greatest gifts that here we have will turn to our decay.  
Beside the servant of the Lord must not inflamed be,  
With wrath, or ire, nor frowning look, as beasts that often we see,  
With hurtful horns do run upon such as do come in sight,  
And threaten with their countenance fierce, continually to fight.  
Let gentle minds be shrouded still, with mild and comely cheer,  
And in the servant of the Lord, Christ's Image plain appear:  
Lest that before he give to speak or climb the Pulpit high,  
The people straight suspecting harm, for fear away do fly.  
And let him learn both words and deeds to suffer patiently,  
Contemning divers things, and most esteeming not a fly.  
A noble heart in body bear, not moved with easy wind  
And take good heed he never speak no words of wrathful kind▪  
Forbearing grinding with his teeth, and frowning with his face,  
And most of all from skirmishing with hand or fist in place.  
Such anger doth not well agree, that he shall eft despise,  
And think unmeet for common people rude to exercise.  
Who can abide Amphitryon's son, on O●ta for to see,  
Or view the face of Ajax fierce, while in his fury he  
Destroys the poor unguilty beasts Ulysses for to kill?  
Who will not shun the company and friendship all to ill  
Of mad Eurylochus, while as he doth pursue in chase  
His man, with spit and meat in hand unto the Market place?  
Who can delight in Commodus, that in his raging ire,  
For trifles cast the master of his baths into the fire?  
Or who doth not Comedes his wicked act detest,  
That Samson like in furious rage, a school of boys oppressed?  
Let rage and wrath be driven hence, nor let him ever speak  
With bitter words to any man, his malice for to wreak,  
Nor cool his mind with Stygian stream, nor any man defame,  
In every matter let him learn to keep his tongue in frame.  
And talk of pleasant things and good, not prating much the while,  
The chattering tongue is loathsome still, and foolish speech is vile,  
And full of lies is always scorned. To rule the tongue aright  
Is acceptable unto God, and unto every Wight.   

The spiritual Husbandry. The second Book.  
THese things as meetest to be kept of plowmen all we thought,  
And more beside (my gracious Lords) that they be chief taught  
To shun all greedy avarice, and fowl desire of gain,  
A thing that always commonly amongst these men doth reign:  
And therefore are they often reprooude at common people's hands.  
This is the worst they teach men to despise both goods and lande●  
And every other fading thing, and worldly vain delight,  
And only for to set their minds upon the heavens bright.  
For when above the rest they seek, for riches greedily,  
What do they else but plain confess, and truly testify,  
That to no other end their pains, in teaching this they take,  
Than for to scrape unto themselves that other men forsake?  
As in Vicenza sometime did a careful Usurer,  
(The story is not very long) it chanced this man to hear,  
That in the town a learned man of eloquence profound,  
Did preach in every place abroad where Usury was found,  
Condemning much the use thereof, and eke the filthy gain.  
To him he comes and greets him well, and thanks him for his pain,  
And praise him much for to proceed, in blaming of this vice,  
And to dissuade the Citizens from filthy avarice.  
Declaring eke the greatness of the sin and wretched state,  
And how that God above all other vices this doth hate:  
What torments they shall have in hell, when as the world doth end.  
And how they shall be punished that so their money lend.  
Thus while with tedious talk he doth molest the aged man,  
Rehearsing oftentimes the words that he before began:  
What moveth thee, quoth he, for to desire this thing so much,  
Since thou thyself art one of those that it doth chief touch.  
Forsooth quoth he, for nothing else, but when they all were gone  
Through your dissuasion good, I might receive this gain alone.  
That now am pestered with the press, and pinched with my shows.  
None otherwise (their deeds report) these plowmen all do use,  
Whom well thou mayst perceive to mock, and with the world to play,  
For earthly things they still do teach, to leave and cast away.  
And for to set the whole delight upon the heavens high:  
While as themselves the things above esteeming not a fly.  
But leaving far behind their backs, with all their force and might  
Do hunt for earthly riches here, and foolish fond delight.  
And look what people, Princes, Dukes, and mighty monarchs big  
Have thrown away, they chest it up, and give them all the fig.  
And yet no end of gaining here devices fine they have,  
To spoyse as well the living here, as those that lie in grave.  
O God forbidden our husbandman, should labour in this plight,  
And teach the people one thing here, and do contrary quite.  
Nor let him be addicted thus to lucre and to gain,  
Nor for to set his heart and mind on wicked treasures vain.  
Let him content himself to live in slender simple 'gree.  
That must a Captain keep the field where bloody battles be.  
The simple man whose purse is light, dare boldly meet his foe,  
Whereas the rich man feareth from his riches for to go,  
To put his life in jeopardy that now so well is sped,  
Who for to lead a pleasant life and void of care and dread.  
Esteems nothing that doth belong to God nor honesty,  
Comparing gain what kind of thing do we more common see?  
Who knoweth not that Pluto hath been always counted hear,  
Of Poets blinded of his sight, and full of fainting fear?  
Who so hath any thing to loose, and doth it much esteem,  
Dare not control the high estates or such as mighty seem,  
Nor warn the great man of his fault, that runneth here awry,  
Nor teach him how to do to God his duty faithfully.  
Where as so many Princes dote, and sinful crimes commit,  
Regarding neither Gods decrees nor laws of man a whit:  
And such great store of husbandmen upon their Courts attend,  
How chanceth it that none of them do move them to amend,  
Or tell them that they do amiss? but rather flatter still,  
Or pass their time with silence dumb, not speaking good nor ill?  
Assuredly the hope of Gold, and pleasant princely fare,  
And love of men constraineth them hereof to have no care.  
Our husbandman must here despise both riches, world, and strife,  
And neither weigh the Prince's wrath, nor hazard of his life.  
Of jesus still respecting most, the honour and the wealth,  
His own estate and office great, and people's saving health.  
If that the common people rude through covetous desire,  
Run headlong in the devils chains to everlasting fire.  
What gulf of torments doth remain for learned men that preach,  
And most of all for wealth and grain, with greedy hand do reach:  
The learned bent to any vice in madness doth exceed,  
And run with greater sway and swing to every wicked deed,  
Their folly eke appeareth most when as they do offend,  
And unto hell with swiftest pace themselves they always send.  
Example of this wretched crime, and of the vengeance dew  
Doth judas give that hung himself, and eke the king that slew  
Young Polidor for money sake: a like example meet  
Is he that once was hoist aloft, and hanged by the feet,  
Whose head was downward thrust by force into Pactolus' great,  
Bethsaydas brood with fearful words, doth Simon Magus threat,  
Desirous for to buy with gold the gifts from heaven sent,  
Whereby he might be sooner rich, who after Satan went.  
Let love of Gold therefore be shunned, and greedy thirst of gain,  
Lest ploughmen bring themselves and others, both to endless pain.  
Besides let lust and daintiness be clearly cast away,  
With fowl excess of meat and drink, and Persian proud array:  
Which things who seeks for to maintain, no living great must lack,  
Offendeth ay the people much, and keeps the Gospel back.  
Let drunkenness be far from hence, and love of pleasant wines,  
Which both decay the force and wit, and unto vice inclines.  
Nor let them often the Tables use of great and wealthy men,  
Lest they through dainty fare be thought to fawn and flatter them,  
And to betray the precious truth, for often it haps thereby,  
Their mouths stopped up they dare not speak the truth unfeignedly.  
But as I would our husbandman, these foresaid faults should shun,  
So will I not advise that he to vice contrary run.  
Ne praise I life in riot spent, nor like I slovens guise,  
Nor savage life with vesture fond in most unseemly wise.  
Such as abide the voice of such as them have well advised,  
Like Demea rude, or Timon, he that all the world despised.  
I like not dainty A●istip, nor beastly Cynics sort,  
Nor tables of the Sybarit●, nor yet king Porus port.  
As proud is he that feeds on roots, and goeth but poorly clad,  
And oftentimes as much desires in honour to be had,  
As Persian Prince arrayed with gold, and glistering in the eye,  
Or yet Lucullus using still to far so daintily.  
All superstition hateful is, excess deserveth blame,  
If any way to much thou dost thy mind and fancy frame.  
Democritus I do condemn, nor Crassus do I praise,  
Let measure be observed and kept in every thing always.  
With mean contented keep thyself, and therein most delight,  
For virtue placed there doth lie, as Homer well doth wright.  
A heinous crime by public fame hath touched mine ears of late,  
A piteous thing for to behold, and miserable state.  
wheresoever the worthy name of Christ hath been reputed high,  
There whoremongers in every place, and harlot's swarming lie:  
Aduoutryes fowl and shameful acts, do rage in every place,  
In taverns, high ways, streets, and eke amid the Market place:  
Whereof good christian people should not once declare the name,  
Much less abide or haunt the thing, allowing well the same.  
Nor only on the people doth this sink of mischiefs light,  
Who scarcely know the will of God, nor how to serve him right:  
But chief on their guides, and on the husbandmen professed,  
Who know the Lords commandments well, and brag above the rest,  
In things belonging unto God, in all dominions wide,  
Most skill to have and term themselves the masters chief beside.  
O shame with tongue not to be touched, and fowl iniquity,  
Behold thy husbandmen, O Christ (if that it lawful be,  
To call them thine that now do fold, and roll themselves within  
Thy sacred name as loathsome Apes in princely Lion's skin.)  
Aufidius manners use, and in Sardanapalus guise,  
Do lead their life, and always pass their time in pleasure so,  
As Chratis did, Semiramis, and Xerxes long a go,  
As men that never trained were, nor fostered in thy law,  
Or knew thy dreadful word divine, or stood thereof in awe.  
Or brought up in the bosom of thy chaste and sacred fold,  
But in the Capraean Isles whereas Tiberius built his hold,  
Where from their tender youth they use to drink and read the while  
The bawdy book of Sotades, and Eelephantis vile.  
What country is there in the world, where Christ his name is known,  
And Popish laws by tyranny hath erst been ever sown?  
What Colleges can you report, what Cities great of name,  
What villages in Christendom, or towns of any fame?  
Wherein the husbandmen themselves from harlots do refrain,  
Where as no great examples fowl of filthy lust remain?  
That escape with lesser punishment, and easilier dealt withal,  
Than those that break a light decree in law or statute small.  
The higher sort abuse themselves, and live so void of shame,  
That justly can they not control the meaner for the same.  
And dare such beasts the blessed word of God to others break?  
And both in body and soul defiled, of holy scripture speak?  
May such disguised wretches full of vice and sinful crime,  
To any man presume to give the sacraments divine?  
Who could Autolycus or else his crazy father bear,  
Or Cacus, or Voranus, if they should them plainly hear,  
Dissuading men from fraud and theft? who would not all to break  
Both Pulpit and the Tables quite, in hearing Cain to speak,  
And to entreat of brother's love? or else to chastest trade  
Of life, to hear the mother of Orestes mad persuade?  
Aristo, or Pasiphae, of shamefastness to tell?  
Or wearied with the use of men, yet not contented well.  
The wife of Caesar great that past in order last of all,  
The shameless threshold of the stews, and hateful harlot's hall?  
far of from hence you godly men, departed and go in haste,  
Among the servants of the Lord, go seek for manners chaste:  
Whom pure religion best becomes, the gifts of God divine,  
receive not at such filthy hands, nor of such beastly swine:  
Moore wholesome is the stream by much that from the fountain clear  
Doth run, than that which dirty stands in lake defiled hear.  
The Lord himself cannot abide ill men to handle hear,  
His holy word, who once forbade the devil witness clear.  
The like did Paul, who of her tale the Prophetess did break,  
And would not suffer Phoebus' Maid the certain truth to speak.  
Look you likewise you suffer not such plowmen as you know,  
With any open filthiness, or wicked vice to flow.  
The swine can never wholesomely of holy matters speak,  
No more than can the Lapwing lewd with fowl and dirty beak.  
Here therefore let our plowmen learn to live in chastity,  
And to restrain the raging force that in his flesh doth lie,  
For Gospel's sake, lest from the same he drive men quite away  
With filthy life, and from the love of Christ himself do stray.  
And underneath the dreadful waves of worldly pleasures run,  
From whence he never can escape, what need soever come.  
But if he cannot lead his life in perfit chastity,  
But feels himself a subject still to fleshly frailty,  
And flameth evermore with lust: then let him take the hold  
Of marriage as a remedy, that scriptures have him told,  
And chastened therein lead his life among the virtuous crew,  
This liberty doth God allow, and men have thought it due.  
No fault it is t'obey the order of the holy sprite,  
But rather reason good, and most according unto right.  
Thus all things well prepared thus, that hereto needful be,  
Instructed eke in every art and learned quality,  
With good conditions furnished, in mind and body clean,  
For filthiness must banished be, when scriptures must be seen:  
Then unto this let him apply his wit with all his might,  
To find the chiefest seed to sow, by which in better plight  
Himself also may daily wax. Canst thou not truly tell,  
What Garner for to seek for this, or in what secret Cell?  
What fields to overlook, whereas the knowledge doth remain,  
Of Christ, And virtuous life, without which all things else are vain?  
Give care unto the master great, descending down from high,  
He wills us for to search, what doth in holy scriptures lie.  
The volumes five of Moses, and the Prophets all beside,  
In them to hear the tongue and voice of him that all doth guide:  
And for to learn what thing is good, and meet for virtuous men,  
And eke what things are ill and naught, and to be shunned of them.  
So that we never need the aid of devils here to crave,  
Or heathens help, or for to call the spirit from stinking grave.  
'tis sure these Prophets never did their own devices teach,  
Nor men's decrees, but evermore the word of God did preach.  
Hereby appears how much we aught their writings for to weigh,  
What credit eke we aught to give unto their words always,  
That God by them doth utter here, who dare his name despise,  
Or yet his word, by whom is ruled each thing in earth or skies?  
First therefore let us here persuade ourselves assuredly,  
Who think with God to live and devil, above the heavens high:  
That God will have us to esteem, whatsoever the prophets old,  
Inspired with the holy ghost, in ancient time foretold:  
As if himself with sacred voice the words pronounced had,  
Long time agone by Angels mouth, he spoke to good and bad,  
And many things himself declared in that most happy tide,  
When as the world was not so ill, and he but few did guide.  
Before that amram's son was borne, while as the hebrews all,  
Were sore oppressed in the land where Nilus' flood doth fall.  
But when they were delivered thence, then Moses straight did writ,  
His volumes five the Prophets eke put out their works to light,  
That of the word of God, the sons might evermore remain,  
And men no l●nger look to hear the voice from starry reign.  
Nor can the ears of man abide the speech of God to hear,  
As once the hebrews made afraid, good witness well may bear.  
Therefore he mortal doctors unto mortal men did send,  
As Moses, Aaron, and such men as ever did attend  
About the service of the Lord, and Moses now in grave,  
They read the people still the law, and laboured them to save,  
As Prophets, priests, & levites eke, who preached and always taught,  
For to beware of wicked things, and to eschew the nought.  
And to conceive assured hope in Christ the promised seed,  
Whereby the hearts might healed be, which grief had caused to bleed.  
This was the Prophet's office than, and this their order just,  
When Moses here had yielded up his carcase unto dust.  
Whose writings through the gift of God do hitherto remain,  
The very doctrine of the holy ghost appearing plain.  
We must not weigh them as the work of mortal men that die,  
But take them as the books of God, sent down from heavens hie.  
In like sort must the Gospel here of good men honoured be,  
For both with all the Prophet's old it justly doth agree,  
And with the dreadful voice of God, it hath confirmed been,  
Nor any thing repugnant here, may any where be seen.  
Therefore the Church did justly give the chief authority,  
Unto the holy books that in the Bible written lie:  
Commanding that they never be abused by any wight,  
But to remain for evermore in good and perfit plight.  
As knowing well her husbands voice, the ender here of strife,  
And these the certain instruments of everlasting life.  
Beside we must esteem them more than all the Sibylles hear,  
Or all the Oaken groves that erst to jove were counted dear,  
And think that unto men these books sufficient light doth give,  
Whereby they well may know the will of God, and how to live.  
So that we profit much herein, in knowing that we need,  
Not ransack other volumes great of faith or hope to reed.  
For miserably doth he toil, and toss his troubled mind,  
That seeks his pleasure where it doth not lie, or else is blind.  
Whosoever of pure and perfit gold, hath found the fruitful vain,  
By which he may to Pelops wealth, or Croesus' state attain,  
And pass the Arabians riches here, and Hermus' sands that shines  
Will hardly hence be had away to dig in empty mines,  
And vainly peck in every rock, whereas no gold doth lie,  
Where travail great must be endured, and nothing got thereby.  
To these therefore let husbandmen their minds and study give,  
Here shall they find what needful is to teach them how to live.  
No need is here to vex the mind with turning many books,  
Nor for to gaze on barren field, with vain and idle looks.  
Here of the everlasting word, the knowledge full doth lie,  
That son of God, and jesus whom the world is saved buy:  
The knowing of whom alonely, brings us to everlasting bliss  
And reconciles us to the father, where we did amiss,  
And makes us heirs of heaven bright, this is the treasure which  
Lay hidden in the ground so deep, and jewel passing rich,  
For which all worldly substance great is well bestowed here:  
Look where thou list thou shalt not find it any other where.  
Leave searching of the cisterns, and the Fens and filthy soils,  
And stinking ponds, when as at home the fountain freshly boils.  
Here draw of clear & Crystal streams, here mayst thou drink thy fill,  
If thirst of everlasting life, and virtue move thy will:  
Give all thy force and mind hereto, and all thy wits apply.  
Moreover this persuasion doth great profit herein bring,  
When in the scriptures plain appears, Gods will in every thing.  
What honour we must give to him, what worship him delights,  
What manners and what ways are meet to frame the life arightes.  
Lest superstition in our minds, or wicked error spring,  
And lest we preach and blaze abroad, some lewd and hurtful thing.  
As if the things sufficed not that God himself hath taught,  
Or that we think by our device might better things be wrought.  
Who so believes that God hath hid no virtue here nor right,  
Contents himself, and doth obey the word with all his might,  
And feigns not any thing himself, nor follows fancy vain,  
Nor any gloss blind of men, nor dreams of idle brain.  
As most men commonly do use, this madness vexeth sore,  
And is a plague that all the world doth trouble evermore.  
Without the word of God each fool dare frame himself away,  
Procuring eke companions to run with him astray:  
Whom at the first he doth persuade, and after doth constrain  
T'obey his folly as a God that over all doth reign.  
Let not our husbandman be stained with such untoward mind,  
But know the weight of scriptures well, where he may easily find  
What best is to be done or left, lest that he wander wide,  
Obeying more the voice of man, than his that all doth guide.  
Thus boldened let him duly read the scriptures evermore,  
From top to toe, and often rehearse that he hath read before,  
And print it deeply in his mind, laid up in safety there,  
None otherwise than gold or pearls, or such like precious gear.  
From whence he largely may disburse to men as cause requires,  
The manner how to please the Lord, and leave their fond desires.  
And if perhaps he unoerstand not all things perfitly,  
Or read some things that do declare a great simplicity:  
Let him beware that tediousness, nor loathsomeness him take,  
And force him so the sacred word of God for to forsake.  
In profane writers many things at first do not appear,  
But hidden lie, and do deceive the readers looking near.  
No marvel then if that the holy ghost declare not all  
In easy phrase, but sometime teach with senses mystical.  
Accept the plain and easy words, and those that from thee fly,  
With haste pursue and draw them from the darkness where they lie:  
He blessed is that profiteth both with the hard and plain,  
And is not feared with the tone, nor counts the other vain,  
But marks the order and the guise of Gods most holy sprite,  
And bears with that in every case, and takes his meaning right.  
First shall he know the causes true, and father of each thing,  
From whose commandment, and whose word all kind of things do spring.  
Created of no substance here, the stately framed skies,  
The breathing air, and weighty earth that in the middle lies.  
The monstrous waves of raging seas that here and there do flow,  
And what in six days work was wrought for garnishing or show.  
The wondrous sort of creatures strange, in air, in seas, or lands,  
That have been made, committed to the power of Adam's hands.  
By this he also well shall learn, that in the world there is,  
But one all only Lord and king, whose power almighty is,  
Who doth of persons three consist, coequal in degree,  
In nature, Godhead, power, and everlasting dignity,  
Who doth regard the deeds and acts, that here on earth are done,  
And suffers nothing in the world, at random here to run:  
But holds the helm of all himself, and stern doth only guide,  
Though divers Ministers he hath for every thing beside.  
He well shall also understand, the great affection dear,  
That God doth always bear to man, who made his subjects hear,  
Both birds, and beasts, and scaly fish that in the seas do swim,  
And gave him from the skies a mind that most resembled him:  
Nor left him when he wickedly upon the ●●ende did weight,  
But threatening Satan and his train, to mercy took him strait.  
Moreover he shall learn from whence the spring of death and sin,  
And wretched ignorance of truth, did in the world begin:  
And what great force of ours remains to deal in virtuous deeds:  
And whence the safe assured hope of righteousness proceeds,  
And whence remission of our sins. Besides he plain shall see,  
Examples store of God's great wrath, for such as wicked be:  
And eke again the mercy great of God omnipotent,  
Towards them that virtuous are, and such as earnestly repent.  
There plainly also shall he see, what things the law doth tell,  
How it condemneth every man, and driveth down to hell:  
That sin deserveth dreadful death, and eke the certain way,  
To please the everlasting Lord, and him for to obey.  
Moreover that there are good spirits, and angels fair above,  
Scent out from God for man's defence, and for their great behove,  
As unto them the wicked spirits are deadly enemies.  
There shall he learn, that soul of man with body never dies,  
Nor that the body evermore shall keep the stinking grave,  
But sound and safe at th'end of the world, their old estate shall have,  
And come to everlasting life, where of the judge severe,  
The fearful sentence shall they see, and righteous judgement here.  
There shall the wicked sort receive their just deserved hire,  
Cast down into the smoky pit of dreadful flaming fire.  
The good exalted to the joys of heaven shining bright,  
Shall see the face of God, and live in passing great delight.  
And more he well shall understand, that will of God above,  
What honour here he best esteems, and what he most doth love,  
What orders he accepteth here, what duty eke we own  
Unto the Magistrate, the whole estate of marriage shall he know.  
But of this worthy treasure●great, why call I all to mind?  
As if I would the surges tell of seas in raging wind:  
Or number all the glistering stars that in the skies appear,  
And cast abroad their golden beams when as the night is clear:  
Or tell how many thousand leaves in woody groves do lie,  
While as in Autumn Saturn throws his frosty flakes from high:  
Or count the number of the ears that through the world are seen,  
While as approaching Harvest near, the corn forsakes his green.  
There shall he find whatsoever doth to husbandmen belong,  
Wherewith to overthrow the foe, and to instruct the young:  
Therefore let him at first the books of Moses well apply,  
And all the other Prophets else in order heedily,  
And from the fountains draw the word, and fetch it from the spring,  
That perfitly he know the mind of God in every thing,  
But chief in the scriptures written by the holy ghost,  
These two, the law, and Gospel, let him always think on most.  
Discerning well betwixt them both, what doth to each belong,  
The property of every one, their force and virtue strong.  
Lest that he hap to deal therein as most men do this day,  
To make them both agree in one, that differ far away.  
The law destroys, condemns, & worketh wrath and vengeance due,  
And showeth us what we aught to do, and what we must eschew,  
Augmenteth sin, and drives men down into the pit of hell,  
That do not hear in every point observe and keep it well.  
On the other side the Gospel doth bring everlasting life,  
And doth appease the wrath of God for sin, and ceaseth strife,  
And thorough Christ forgiveth all that hath been done amiss,  
And drawth us from the depth of hell, and placeth us in bliss.  
In giving joys that never ends: ne shows how we should live,  
So much as it the deeds of Christ to us doth wholly give,  
And maketh righteous every one, and doth our sins deface,  
Restoring unto saving health, all such as seeks his grace.  
Lo here thou seest a difference great, that will no unity,  
No more than fowl deformed death, with life will here agree.  
Therefore herein our husbandman must sever them aright,  
Not mingling them together thus, as just in equal plight,  
Not making Moses here of Christ, or old Lycurgus sour,  
Nor yet ascribing that to Christ, that longs to Moses' power.  
Let each of them their office keep, their time, and eke their place,  
Sometime 'tis meet the stony hearts with deadly law to chase:  
And to declare the dreadful plagues, that no excuse remain,  
To wretched men that all their life in wickedness do train.  
A time again when meet it is of nothing else to speak,  
But graciousness, and to relieve and comfort up the weak,  
With sweetness great of jesus mild, both neck and hands unbound,  
From doleful chains of misery, that ways them to the ground.  
What can be worse than for to kill such as deserve to live,  
And unto such as death deserve, eternal life to give?  
Which thing doth always come to pass when all things are not well  
Discerned as they aught to be, and as I erst did tell.  
And though the face of Moses, and our saviours countenance bright,  
Must both be bore and open showed, and furnished out with light,  
Yet most of all we aught the name of Christ to magnify,  
And seek t'advance above the rest, his praise and dignity.  
For he of every other thing is final end and sum,  
And all things both in heaven and earth, by means of him are done,  
And every thing committed here unto his holy hand,  
Wherein both health and righteousness, and death, and life doth stand,  
With favour, grace, and punishment, and whatsoever doth lie,  
Created hear upon the earth, or in the heavens high.  
He is the sovereign king and guide of chosen people pure,  
The happy priest, chief head and Lord, and Sanctuary sure:  
The steadfast stone to cleave unto, and strongest tower of might,  
The glorious Bridegroom, garnished most beautiful in sight,  
That with his own most precious blood, did wash and purify  
His spouse from every spot and stain that might offend the eye.  
The only shepherd, bread, and light, and chiefest master here:  
In fine, the large and wealthy horn, where all things doth appear.  
Him from the first beginning, God did promise' for to give,  
To Adam and his children all, that after him should live,  
A gift that well should pacify, his just conceived ire,  
And eke redeem the damned souls, from never ceasing fire:  
Thus taught the holy ghost abroad, and Moses did the same,  
And all the Prophets after him did blaze abroad his fame.  
The Apostles band did preach and teach him all the world throughout,  
With travail and with labour great. And eke the Lawyer stout,  
That was sometime his enemy, confessed openly,  
That nothing here he sought to know, save jesus that did die  
Upon the cross for man's offence, who at that present time,  
Was made our wisdom, righteousness, and purger of our crime.  
And not by will or force of man, but by th'almighties law.  
Why seek'st thou here to know the cause? the rest not worth a straw,  
(Respecting this) thou mayst accounted but all as darkness blind,  
And fond imaginations, and fancies of the mind,  
The perfit way that leads to hell, which here with labour great.  
The foolish world doth blaze abroad, while as it doth entreat,  
Of laws, religion, offices, yea though they taken be,  
From Gods most holy word, or more from worldly fantasée.  
They all are vain and of no force, except we hereto join  
The knowledge pure of jesus Christ, and majesty divine.  
The jews although the Bible still they gaze and look upon,  
And honour great do give unto the Prophets every one,  
Whose foaming lips with boasting of the law the people feeds,  
And glory in such Cartlodes here of good and virtuous deeds,  
Yet blind they still remain, shut out from everlasting light,  
In darkness groping all about, do run to hell aright.  
What profits books or Moses now, or yet the Prophets all,  
When as thou dost not understand the chief and general?  
Both many & worthy words likewise, from Turkish mouth proceeds,  
Of God, his worship, prayers, and good works, and almose deeds:  
And in the soberness of life, they far do us excel,  
They fast, and keep their bodies ever pure, and clean, and well,  
And often a pilgrimage they run, with pains and great expense,  
From Saint to Saint to visit shrines, with wondrous reverence.  
But all not worth a straw. For if that God be angry still,  
And neither hear their prayers, nor to their vows he hearken william.  
For if he all extremely hate, and can away with none,  
That put not all their confidence in jesus Christ alone,  
As holy scriptures testify, and teach in every place:  
What profits all this travail vain, or labour void of grace?  
Like vanity a great while now hath vexed the christian sort,  
With ignorance of Christ, whose name they only could report.  
The merits of good works and prayers, men's cares did always fill,  
Of vain and foolish ceremonies, their Pulpits thundered still.  
And in the mean time as the Turks, with name of Christ they play,  
Not teaching all our confidence and trust on him to lay.  
And thus no good foundation of their doings doth remain:  
But as the daughters of Danaus, they laboured all in vain,  
And took their travail to no end, with weak and weary hand,  
But tiled upon the barren earth, and sowed upon the sand.  
Not that they lack the word of God, which likewise had the jews:  
But that it lay neglected still, and slept in desk and pews,  
With dust and Cobwebs all to rayde, in fowl and filthy plight:  
Whereon if any man by chance did happen for to light,  
And otherwise than custom was, on leaves a few to look,  
As used it was in Churches often, to chant upon the book.  
He sought not here for Christ, nor how to find the way to skies,  
(For that was thought but childishness, and plain to all men's eyes,)  
But sought for other kind of things, though worthy sure of praise,  
As for to lead a virtuous life, and to direct his ways.  
Some others used to mumble up the matter speedily,  
And with the swiftness of their tongue did labour busily.  
Regarding neither sense nor words, to whom it seemed a hell,  
For to bestow a little time in reading scriptures well.  
Hereof sprang up the blindness great, that dazed the people sore,  
And well deserving did oppress their husbandmen the more.  
The knowledge eke of Christ lay hid, that bringeth righteousness,  
And causeth us the blessed reign of heaven to possess,  
Thus warned by Christ's example, and the danger that may fall,  
Our husband man must follow jesus Christ before them all:  
That for the people and himself, by this he may provide,  
Lest that he stumble at a straw, and mountains overstride,  
And wonder at the village small, and stately town despise,  
And at the entrance miss the house of God before his eyes:  
Which doth declare a buzzard blind, or one that wants his sight,  
Or else some drunken Ploughman mad, that knows no way aright.  
This rule observed, and drinking at the purest fountain clear,  
And taking counsel first of God, and always giving ear  
Unto the voice of Christ our Lord, reserving it in mind,  
No voice nor any Paraphrase, nor gloze of any kind.  
That old or new hath written been, must be despised of thee,  
That either is the bridegrooms friend, or else is thought to be  
Both for the bridegrooms sake, and for the right of all the rest,  
That justly here are called in unto the bridegrooms feast.  
Yet not without a judgement great, or strait examining,  
Read thou the works of any man, or his interpreting:  
For oftentimes it comes to pass, that even the guide of hell,  
Takes on himself the furniture of Angels seeming well.  
And in the midst of righteous men, the crafty knave doth stand,  
And as a Saint his matters there he taketh than in hand.  
Whatsoever writer followeth still the text of scriptures plain,  
With Paul and Peter joining just, and all the Apostles train,  
And teacheth that our health proceeds from only Christ alone,  
And for to live as he commands, and trust to others none,  
Him read, and earnestly withal lay up his words in mind,  
As one that only teacheth, as the holy ghost assigned,  
And seeks with all his force and might, to extol and magnify,  
The honour of the Bridegroom here and sovereign Majesty.  
But some there are that at the Threshold of the door are blind,  
Who leaving all the Prophets, and the testament behind,  
Set out the fond decrees of men, and fancies lewd and vain,  
Such as the man that never heard of Christ, nor of his reign,  
With easy travail might invent, as once did Xenophon,  
Isocrates, and Cicero, and others many one.  
Who surely better things do teach, and sounder much are tried,  
Than divers whom we erst have known with baptism purified.  
These also read: for underneath the dunghill often doth lie  
The precious stone, and many times from sands the Gold we try.  
Scarce can there any book be found, so lewd unlearned or nought,  
But bringeth some commotitie, as Pliny truly taught.  
For though there be no learning great, for to be had therein,  
And though the phrase and matter all, be scarcely worth a pin.  
Though many wicked things they teach, yet good to know the same,  
For to avoid the ill, and of the ●est to make a game.  
Moore laugh to hear the Cuckoo lewd, to rattle in the throat,  
Than for to hear the Nightingale with sweet and pleasant note.  
But if these foolish books do hap, a loathsomeness to breed,  
And to offend the stomach much, as often they do in deed,  
Than after reading once or twice, no more about them stand,  
But give them to the Spiders, Moths, or to the Grocer's hand,  
Whatsoever is good esteem it well, and keep it for thy need,  
And what is ill dispatch it quite, and take thereof good heed.  
But if a controversy rise amongst the learned men,  
And such as teach the people hear with grave and skilful pen.  
If that the matter come to fight, by battle to be tried,  
And that the skirmish waxeth hot, with books on every side.  
Let him a Neuter keep himself, neglecting Solon's lore,  
And meddle not with any part, nor judgement give before  
He well do understand the case, and weighed it perfectly,  
Regarding no man's person, stile, nor earthly dignity,  
Nor gifts of happy fortune here that have been dealt to men,  
Nor great or little company, of such as follow them.  
Let neither private love nor hate persuade him any way,  
Nor force him any kind of thing, on either part to say.  
Nor kin nor Country move his mind, to bear his hand awry,  
And 'cause the balance for to serve, and fall unequally.  
But free from all affections, let him mark above the rest,  
Which of them nearest comes to Christ, and follows truth the best,  
And keeps the perfit rule of faith, and justly doth agree,  
With every thing that in th'apostles volumes written be.  
(For new things no man here may fame) and rightly understand  
The word of God, to such let him assent to give his hand.  
And bear this always in his mind, that scriptures only must  
Be they, whom godly men are bound undoubtedly to trust.  
All other writings of such force and value aught to be,  
But only where with scripture they are found for to agree.  
Nor must we here regard nor weigh, what man the Author be,  
Of any learning new, nor yet how great the companée.  
If that he bring not with him still the perfit bridegrooms sound,  
And heavenly word of God, unto the which are only bound  
The hearts of mortal men, and which we safely may apply,  
And vanquish both the gates and reign of hellish soil thereby.  
What thing hath more dispersed itself through all the world so wide?  
What sect hath got so many friends and followers beside?  
What is more constantly affirmde? with sword and fire defended?  
And thought to come from God, as from the lofty skies descended?  
Then that so gross and foolish law of Mahomet the blind,  
Whose doltish dreams among themselves contrary often we find?  
What shall he do, if number great of people move his mind?  
Or general consent of all the world his fancy bind?  
Or stately crowns of Emperors, or Diadems of Kings,  
With madness shall he run the way that to destruction beings,  
And doubtful hanging just betwixt the earth and heaven tho,  
To hell with crowd and number great of people shall he go.  
Go search the scriptures teacheth he that from the heavens came,  
Appointed by the father's voice, the governor of man.  
He bids not here the doting fruit of man's devise to way,  
Nor what the lofty Prince commands, nor multitude doth say.  
For error springs with mortal men by special property,  
And blindness from the mother's womb, doth all accompany.  
From which doth neither Chains redeem, nor towns, nor princely seat,  
Nor wool that twice hath erst been died in purple poison great.  
These are the chief desires of Pan, and Midas fond delight,  
And eke the heady frantic rage of Princes great of might,  
Not only with the Gentiles lewd, who lack the light divine,  
But with the learned and fleshly seed that comes of Abraham's line.  
That now thou néedste not to condemn of Ocean seas so deep,  
The farthest parts that in Cimmerian mists and darkness sleep.  
For all the earth whereas the Sun doth cast his countenance clear,  
Oppressed with dreadful darkness great, and blindness doth appear.  
In matters touching faith therefore, and joys of heaven than,  
Let him not trust the judgement here of any kind of man.  
But know that men will always lie, with minds disposed ill,  
Except the holy ghost, and word of God do guide them still.  
Which whether it be done or not, let scriptures here decide,  
Considering well of every part, as Argus thoroughly eide.  
Except he doth despise the words that Christ did once declare,  
Who doth command attentively, false Prophets to beware.  
The like hath Paul commanded often, and earnestly doth will,  
So doth the son of Zebedey by good and perfit skill.  
But for the judgement now in books, and their examining,  
Our Ploughman must give heed to this, as to a special thing,  
That to no doctor here he bind himself continually,  
Although the same be learned, and had in estimation high,  
And of the people honoured much, and worshipped for his skill,  
Lest by this means he be enforced with good to swallow ill,  
And maintain lies in steed of troth, yea for his masters sake,  
To wrist and wry, and small account of scriptures for to make.  
But let him keep his judgement, and reserve his liberty,  
To allow the things that with the holy spirit agreeing be.  
And to reject the lewd and false, with malice never moved,  
But only with the love of truth, which as before I proved,  
Must only here respected be, no kind of man beside,  
Nor lofty hats, that erst hath been with purple colour died,  
Nor multitudes in number great, nor press of people rife,  
Nor miracles that have been joined with holiness of life.  
For since the Apostles worthy time, hath not been known to live,  
A man to whom in every thing we credit safe may give.  
For through affections ●f the mind, the general company,  
That both in Greek or Latin writ, do often run awry,  
And from the perfit path decline, and doth the scriptures wrong,  
Enforcing them to other sense than doth to them belong,  
While as they took not heed enough, or else too earnest were,  
In things they went about for to persuade or maintain here.  
Often times they superstitious things do teach and fancies vain,  
That neither with the Gospel do agree, nor christian reign.  
Let these be spots and marks that in thy body fair appear,  
Yet think we them not worthy praise, nor to be made of here.  
As on the other side, for these we may not damn the rest,  
That sound they have uttered here, and Christianly expressed,  
A foolish love and all to blind, is it when we allow,  
The manifest deformities, and them for good avow,  
And in a princely hall commend the dung before our face.  
Let every thing retain his name, his praise, and eke his place:  
And let not things contrary quite, have both one worshipping,  
Nor yet that matters base and vile, be sealed with precious ring.  
Wherein they shall constrained be, to trespass now and than,  
That in this sort addict themselves to any private man.  
But this is not the greatest harm that happeneth thereby,  
In such as to one Author bind themselves continaully,  
There is another greater thing and worse ay by much:  
They care for no man here beside, nor make account of such,  
As painfully do writ or teach, especially if he  
In any point do serve, and from their master disagree,  
Whom only here they make their God, as one that cannot lie,  
Nor be deceived in any point, nor ever tread awry.  
He only looks not by the glass, nor shadows here that lies,  
But all things openly discerns, with more than Lynceus eyes.  
Who if he any thing commend, their praises than excel,  
And look what he doth here mislike, they damn it down to hell,  
And at an inch they follow him, and jump with him they go,  
And evermore as he decrees, there minds are altered tho.  
Of these men canst thou look for good, or faithful husbandmen?  
Imaginst thou that ever truth can be esteemed of them?  
Or that they can uprightly teach: he that from leftie reign  
Of heaven came, did not forbidden his followers here in vain.  
No man on earth their master, or their father for to call,  
For why he knew in every place were swarms of doctors all,  
Puffed up with pride, by reason of the learning that they had,  
Who chief sought for to advance their own devices mad,  
And clearly do deface the truth: and here in every thing,  
To conquer all men's hearts, and them unto subjection bring.  
Sigh cleaving to one master still, doth make men soon fall,  
We neither must our parents here, nor friends esteem at all.  
But only jesus as the Doctor chief we must obey,  
As one that only teacheth here the truth and perfit way.  
This was the ancient father's rule, for this the writers new,  
Have striven long, and plain disclosed a lewd and loathsome crew  
Of errors blind, wherein great learned men in time did stray,  
Whereat I more do muse why men should at this present day  
Allow this rule, and use it boldly toward every man,  
When as the works of writers new, and of the old they scan.  
Yet as if they in heaven should continually abide,  
Of no man here they will be judged, nor have their matters tried,  
But would be thought in every thing to touch the perfit pin,  
Whose doings hear to bring in doubt, or to resist is sin,  
And taken for a deadly crime that needeth sacrifice,  
Whatsoever they teach must be devoured with shut and closed eyes.  
If that thou doubt, and that thy stomach loath at divers things,  
Then hatred and defiance strait, and hurly burly springs,  
And dangers great doth thee await, and prison hard at hand,  
And death with cruel torments near, unto thy head doth stand,  
Thou happy art and eke thy birth hath fortune favoured right,  
If that thou mayst thy country leave in poor and simple plight.  
And is not this a foolish rage, and madness gross and blind?  
Yet numbers great of fools that do accept this same they find,  
And bind themselves to all their toys, and farther with them go,  
Esteeming all their doings here, as God had wild it so.  
Nor any thing herein they doubt, and worse than Toads they hate  
All those that seem to doubt thereof, or speak against their state.  
Even as a lofty Pine, they labour such to throw to ground,  
And worse than their masters far, in all things are they found.  
Therefore addict thyself to none, but gather still the best,  
And things that well agreeing be, with word of God expressed:  
The other to the Doctor leave, or to his foolish band,  
Nor suffer him in stead of Gold, to give thee dirty sand.  
But though the almighty Lord hath here delivered unto men  
His holy word, with writers store, and worthy husbandmen,  
Whereby the truth may well be known, and Christ that doth redeem,  
And all men aught to learn and read, but chief such as méene  
To take the holy plough in hand, and minds in order bring:  
Yet shalt thou not discern the truth, nor Christ the sovereign king,  
Except the holy ghost from high instruct thy feeble mind,  
And teach thee here the perlite path, and certain way to find.  
Behold in every place, what store of schools are to be seen,  
What numbers great of Doctors here, whose learning men esteem:  
What company of books, and eke what care to learn and teach,  
Yet empty stands the Pulpit still, and few of Christ do preach,  
And few regard to hear of him, nothing is pure or clean,  
Nor of the holy ghost may any steps or path be seen:  
The earthly things are had in price, and worldly wisdom vain,  
But no man seeks the doctrine that belongs to christian reign.  
From whence proceeds such mischief great of God, the fury fell  
It is wherewith he plagues contempt, and world that doth rebel,  
And doth deny his heavenly dews to every study still,  
And only leaves the world the shell and letter that doth kill.  
Himself the kernel close doth keep, and takes the pith away,  
And lewd despisers doth despise, and suffers them to stray  
In worldly trifles fond and vain, wherewith they feed their flock,  
Why should he open heaven gates to such as do not knock?  
Why should he give his holy spirit, his Christ and gifts divine  
To them that never ask, but with a frowning look repined?  
Thus men still trusting to their wits, while as they seek to find  
The way to heaven with fond decrees, and acts of divers kind,  
In sundry follies drown themselves, and labour all in vain,  
And headlong hurl themselves into the floods of hellish reign.  
But thou apply thy force and mind, and banish slothful ease,  
Spread out the sails of diligence, and try the learned seas.  
Remember yet the aid of God, and help of heavenly light,  
And pray to God continually, to give the heart his sprite,  
And to reveal the certain truth, thy mind for to inspire  
With Christ the saving health, who aught to be thy chief desire,  
Thy only glory, and thy talk, and in thy mind to lie,  
In setting forth whose honour, thou thy learnings must apply.  
These things if that with earnest mind, of God thou dost require,  
No doubt but he will help thee strait, and grant thee thy desire,  
And fill thy open mouth with food, and precious treasures great:  
Thus hath he promised, and likes it well when we entreat.  
Dost thou not see how Solomon did greatly him delight,  
In ask neither goods nor life, but wit and judgement right,  
How much above all other men he thereby did receive?  
Go pray therefore, and knock a pace, desire and never leave.  
Thou never canst thyself desire more earnestly to have,  
Than he is ready for to give to such as thus do crave,  
The blessed gifts of heavenly spirit. Thence shall he open wide,  
The secret Cells of sacred books, and wisdom great beside,  
Wherein the sweetest sight of all may Christ be plainly seen,  
That of the chosen evermore, the only hope hath been,  
And many mysteries beside of strange and wondrous kind,  
Kept still in secret from the world, that evermore is blind,  
Which no despiser lewd may know. His word eke will he teach  
Abundantly, and give a spirit that earnestly shall preach.  
Who if he give thee not these things, and thou to ask disdain,  
In learning only shalt thou not bestow thy time in vain,  
But what thou speakst shall foolish be, unsavoury, and unsweet,  
Disordered eke in every point, not having head nor feet.  
Nor Doctor shalt thou counted be, but for a trifler vain,  
A dun, a foolish babbler, and most worthy of disdain,  
Whose presence, voice, and foolish words, no sheep of Christ will hea●  
That knows the voice of jesus Christ, & God's commandments clear.  
What profits it forsaking God, to be accounted great,  
And with the damned stinking Goats to have the highest seat.  
Like as the jewish Rabbins have, among the castaways,  
And as the teachers of the Turks, and many in these days,  
That bounce and beat the Pulpit still, with loathsome noise and cry,  
Meet only for to rail, and in the rest not worth a fly?  
A great thing is it in the house of God to drudge and sweep,  
And servant in the earth to be unto the chosen sheep.  
For such a worthy room therefore, look well thou worthy be,  
Requiring God continually to grant this force to thee,  
To give thee grace and strength thereto, and while thou here dost live,  
Eschew no travail great, nor toil, thy mind to labour give.  
According to thy calling, let thy house well furnished be,  
Not glistering all with sumptuous plate, nor costly Imagerée,  
Nor hanged about with Arras rich, nor pleasant Tapestry.  
Let all Th'assirian furnitures, and Phrygian beauty lie,  
Nor seal thy house with ivory white, nor Marble graven fine,  
Ne let thy walls with painted Tables of Apelles shine,  
Nor with Parrhasius costly works, nor Euphranors beside,  
These things are meet for Princes great, and men addict to pride.  
Who (foolish) much regard such ●oyes, with lofty swelling mind,  
And little wisdom got thereby, not meet for such a kind  
Of men as search for heavenly things, and scriptures do apply:  
And of poor Christ do preach the word, and doctrine faithfully.  
Dress up thy house in comely sort, but not with great expense,  
Clean kept, and swept, perfumed well, with pleasant franconsence,  
With berries sweet of juniper, or in the Summer time,  
With Lavender, or Violets, and Roses sweet and fine,  
Or pleasant Lilies white. Sweet smells the wit doth chief feed,  
As stinking air doth dull the mind, and great diseases breed.  
Let large and fair thy study be, and lightsome every where,  
far placed from any filthy smell, no sink nor dunghill near,  
No loathsome privy there abouts, no marsh nor lakes at hand,  
Nor filthy vapours that arise from stinking pools that stand.  
Here let thy chiefest goods appear, and books in number great,  
Of sundry sort, among the which, the best and highest seat  
The Bible challengeth of right, which many years agone,  
Was written by the holy spirit, and in the tongues each one,  
Wherein it hath been written here. Of which the chiefest grace  
The Hebrew hath, and next to it the Chaldean tongue hath place,  
Let not the Greek translation want, but stand among the rest,  
Which seventy sundry men did writ, at Nilian kings request,  
And which the ancient fathers used, that Christ of old did preach,  
And with their virtuous writings grave, the Christian faith did teach.  
Then let the worthy Doctors all, and famous christian crew,  
That long time since have written books, be placed in order due.  
And ne●t unto the Bible, first let Austin have his place,  
Who hath among the writers all, in Latin chiefest grace,  
Whose pregnant wit found out the truth, and syft●th all things well,  
Whose judgement in detecting fr●●de, did others far excel.  
And next to him his ancient friend, let Jerome have his seat,  
Well known unto the world, for skill in tongues, and wisdom great,  
Who perfit was in every act, and learned science tho,  
And was not far behind in 〈◊〉 to worthy Cicero.  
Let Ambrose also there be se●, with learned phrase and sweet,  
Whose fatherly hea●● instructing well, doth teach us what is meet.  
Nor let Hillarius absent be, nor Athanasius great,  
Who always doth with steadfast tongue of pure religion treat:  
Nor both the Gregory's that in the Graecian tongue excel,  
Whose glistering beams unto the world hath erst been known full well.  
Let Cyprian eke the Martyr here, an handsome place possess,  
And virtuous Basyll, and Chrysostome full of holiness,  
Whose words do like a fountain flow, and eke whose worthy wit  
For eloquence excels, amid whose laps doth Pitho sit.  
Let Irenaeus have his place, a famous writer old,  
Let Origen be placed there, and eke Cyrillus bold,  
And sundry others more, that do in Greek and Latin writ  
The names of whom it were to long and tedious to recite.  
Take also those that lived next, of less antiquity,  
Although for faith nor virtue they may not compared be  
With those so famous fathers old, and though they rudely writ,  
Not having eloquence alike, nor cunning to indite.  
And to fill up the number, let in worthy places stand,  
Such men as in this age of ours have set their helping hand,  
Whereof thou not a few shalt find, that to these Doctor good  
Full near have gone, and through the holy ghost have understood  
Such things as few before have known, who not inferior be,  
In knowledge tongues and eloquence, and in divinity,  
Unto those men that wrote of old, for God hath at this time  
Brought forth such glistering beams of light, & caused them forth to shine,  
And wondrous gifts hath dealt abroad as no man can deny,  
That wisdom hath, for which we are bound to yield continually  
Great thanks and praises to his name, and well to use them here,  
To our behoof, and profit great, and not for to despise  
Them as the custom is of old, in shameful sort and guise,  
Wherewith the things that in our days are found and brought to light,  
Though never so good, we do contemn with loathsome appetite.  
On th'other side, the fashions old, and such as far be ●et,  
With willing arms we do receive, and most by them we set.  
This spiteful custom cast away, and let us here embrace  
God's blessing sent from high, and works of men so full of grace,  
Nor moved be if any thing therein amiss do seem,  
Or fancy such as aught of us to be rejected clean.  
What writer (scriptures here except) could ever yet be found,  
That hath not erred in any point from doctrine pure and sound?  
We all in many things offend, and sundry things deceive,  
When darkly placed the perfit s●use the mind doth not conceive.  
Among these writers here deserves the chief and highest seat,  
Erasmus, he that learned was in every science great,  
The jewel of our time, and glory great of Germany,  
By whom we safely may contend and have the victory,  
With all the Italians, Spaniards, French, and such as English be.  
In these most learned works, thou shalt be sure for to attain,  
To know whatsoever Christians good have thought, or heathen vain.  
Next unto him let sundry other good men have their place,  
Shut no man out that taketh pains to fill the world with grace▪  
What Country man soever he be, or in what time he live,  
Yea what soever name the world to him doth use to give.  
So shalt thou well be furnished, of counsel learned and good,  
That may declare what needful is for to be understood,  
Of Christ, of faith, and hope, whereby thou well mayst answer give  
In every doubt, as one that still about the Lord doth live.  
Let not the whip of Jerome fear, nor force thee to refrain,  
(For in the world he uttered hath his dreams and fancies vain,)  
From reading of the heathens works, and of Philosophy.  
Sometime for recreation sake, thy mind a while apply,  
In Aristotle's books to search the sense and phrase obscure,  
And whatsoever Plato here hath left in writing pure,  
Or Plutarch, Euchide, Xenophon, or Ptolomae the grave,  
As touching Mathematicals, or manners written have.  
Let here the Lawyers present be, and also them withal  
The Pope's decrees, rescriptes, and such as Decretals they call.  
A meet and worthy place is due to Poets here of right,  
As unto virtuous minds, and men inspired with holy sprite.  
Let Galen, and Hypocrates be placed near to thee,  
And other famous Doctors that in physic skilful be▪  
Let Tully that excels in Latin tongue have here his seat,  
The father sw●ete of eloquence, and guide of duty great.  
Let Pliny, and Demosthenes, and valiant Caesar hie,  
Isocrates, and Seneca, be placed worthily.  
join here withal in company the story writers old,  
Such as have written lives of men, and acts of Princes told▪  
Who able is each writer's name, in verse for to recite?  
Who in rehearsal of so great a number would delight?  
But such as hold the sacred Plough, must not be ignorant  
Of any Author, but with them be always conversant.  
Learn of the honiemaking Bees, about the Meadows fly,  
And suck the pleasant juice that doth in every flower lie.  
Of every thing are arguments, and reasons to be brought,  
Not only out of books, and out of things that nature wrought:  
But even from the handicrafts, of base and vile degree,  
That husbandmen may have no time unoccupide to be.  
What should I show how great a gain & pleasure hence doth spring:  
For first of all assuredly it is a worthy thing  
To have so many learned mates, and sweet companions here,  
And such a learned Senate as about thee shall appear:  
To whom thou mayst for counsel come, in any doubt of thine,  
That either longs to worldly state, or unto things divine.  
In silence they remain, if aught thou wouldst not forth to fly,  
And truth is told thee plain, and nothing uttered there by flattery:  
Them shalt thou have that can their part in weighty matters play,  
And such again as mirth can move, and sorrow drive away.  
Thus shalt thou willing masters have, that present still shall be,  
Who if thou wilt shall teach, if not, they will not trouble thee.  
Hereby thou shalt eschew the press of common people vain,  
Nor pleasure shalt thou take in rude assemblies to remain.  
Thou shalt both spare thy purse and ears, and keep a quiet mind,  
Nor shalt sustain the vile reproach of such as be unkind.  
Nor shalt thou be constrained to look upon thy frowning so,  
Nor driven for to hear the ribald's tongue at large to go.  
No malice, wrath, nor wretched love, shall purchase thee disease,  
No gates of noble men shut up from thee shall thee displease▪  
The doubtful cases of the law shall never move thy mind,  
Nor strife that here in trifles vain the brawling people find.  
Thou shalt no whit regard the steps of high estate to climb,  
Nor shalt thou be with Dice undone, nor cast away with wine,  
Thou shalt as in a Paradise, enjoy thy liberty,  
And walk amongst the flowers sweet of white and purple die.  
The world thou shalt despise, and only joys of heaven embrace,  
And follow here the doctrine true of Christ in blessed case.  
FINIS.