A Watchwoord to England To beware of traitors and treacherous practices, which have been the overthrow of many famous Kingdoms and common weals.  
❧ Written by a faithful affected friend to his Country: who desireth God long to bless it from Traitors, and their secret conspiracies.  
Seen and allowed, according to the order appointed in the queens Injunctions.  
josua. 1. verse. 5.  
¶ Take a good hart, and be strong, fear not, I say fear not: because that I which am the Lord thy God will be with thee in all thine affairs.  
LONDON Printed for Thomas Hacket, and are to be sold at his shop in Lumberd street, under the sign of the Pope's head. 1584.   


ANglia quae gestatregni 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 faelix.  
Est pagina hac oculis forma notata tuis.  
Anglorum clypeos, Insignia Martia cernis.  
Aptatur meritis digna corona bonis.   

E R    

In laudem Elyzabethae Reginae.  

TVrba maligna papae tibiterra Britanna minatur;  
Non minus illa ferox Elyzabetha tibi.  
Insidijs unaes saevis elapsa tyranni,  
Te magijs, ferro, sortibus atque tetris  
Tollere conatus serpens: sed quid furor ardens  
Profuit? es Christi, qui tuus unus erat.  
Ingenium, pietas, virtus te ex omnibus unam  
Esse docent, in quam nil potuere mali.  
Exemplis varijs opere hoc est res manifesta,  
In quo ●udantur facta nefanda virûm;  
Elyzabetha Deo fidas (ut coeperis) uni;  
Hostes contundet, teque tuosque teget.   
R. W.   

❧ To the high, mighty, and right excellent Princess, Elyzabeth, by the grace of God, of England, France and Ireland Queen, defendresse of the true, ancient, Catholic and Apostolic Faith, etc. A. M. her majesties most humble Subject and Servant wisheth continual felicity in this world, and in the world to come.  
THe consideration of your rare and incomparable Virtues, which are such jewels of estimation in the eyes and ears of your faithful Subjects, and the care how to continue and enjoy them long, which is the study and practise of all them that truly honour you; hath constrained me at this time (right excellent and famous Queen) to exceed the bounds of ordinary love, which is only but to please the eye, and to wade into the depth of entire affection, wherewith the heart may be oftentimes quieted, but hardly throughly satisfied, by reason the conceit taketh so deep an impression, and every cause concerneth it so nearly, as, what with hazard of peril, and fear to forego, affection is so vehement, as nothing can go beyond it.  
Let then (most noble Queen) this my poor affection, carry that credit in your Princely mind, as your nature affordeth to every loving Subject, and let such account be held of my earnest intent, as both the weightiness of the cause, and circumstances of the whole considered, shall deliver reason. I (in the mean time) shall continue in prayer, that long this Land may be partaker of your gracious presence, and the good will of every true Subject may be thankfully entertained.  
Your highness obedient Subject and Servant. A. M.   

To the right Honourable Master Thomas Pullison, Lord Mayor elected of the famous City of London, and to the worshipful Master Stephen Slanie, and Master Henry Billingsley, Sheriffs of the same City, with all the rest of their worshipful Brethren.  
WE find it by common experience (right Honourable and Worshipful) and the effects are too much seen and proved amongst us, that as there are many dangerous diseases, which happen to a man's body, whereof some are so hurtful to the same, and work by such outrageous means; as they not only threaten great hazard of death to the body, but at length (after many calm showers) do utterly waste and deprive it of life. So in a kingdom or common wealth, which may by 
A comparison between a man's body and a common wealth.  comparison very well be resembled to a man's body, there often chanceth very sore and doubtful sicknesses, which grow in time to such forcible and extreme occasions: as they not only danger the perishing of the most part, but in conclusion work the utter ruin and destruction of the whole. Yet when the body is offended by sickness, the friends of the diseased party do diligently inquire after Physicians: then what medicines his Art can devise, or what wholesome potions good council can minister, are presently prepared for ease of his vexation.  
In like manner, in any common wealth, that is thus touched with any disease that foreshoweth peril: 
All men are bound in duty to defend their Country.  every one that is faithfully affected to the same, or employ their lives (as they ought) for the benefit thereof, are bound with heedful care to seek remedy for such maladies, yea, it is a principal article of their duty, to let slip no occasion that may be judged helpful in such a case. For if friendship cause men for their private familiars sake, to travail in knowledge of the cause of his infirmity, and then to provide such apt necessaries, as may yield hope to qualify his agony, and restore him to his former health: much more ought duty to be effectual in such men, as make estimation of their Country and common wealth, at what time any troublesome annoyance doth molest it, or any danger whatsoever may be thought towards it: to show themselves earnest and forward in search of the grief, and then to apply such due and necessary medicines, as may expel the very thought of threatened danger.  
The excellent Historiographer Herodotus showeth 
Herodotus in his Book called Clio, which is the first Book of his Story.  us a notable example, how the babylonians made this law amongst them, that when so ever any man fell sick within their dominions, he should presently be brought into the market place, & there be laid on his bed: to the intent that he might demand of every one that came to him, whether they had been troubled with the like disease or no, and by what means they recovered their health, that he might by knowledge thereofattayne to the same. And by the same law likewise, every man that came to him was bound, both to ask the man what sickness he had: and also to show him (if it lay in him to do it) what might soon deliver him from that state. By which example, every one that beareth a true & faithful zeal to his Country, and earnestly tendereth the health and wealth thereof: when so ever he seethe the body thereof (which lieth open before all men's eyes) to be infected or touched with any infirmity, and can either by experience or otherwise deliver, what in his conceit may be imagined available: he is bound in conscience to express it, and great is the penalty if he conceal it. For in helping the whole body, he hath benefit thereof himself, in that he is a member 
The whole body being out of quiet, the members must needs far the worse.  thereof: for let the body be sick, the members must needs be partakers of the grief, and at what time it findeth health again, the members likewise have comfort by the relief. The consideration of these precedentes (right Honourable and Worshipful) with the earnest care, zeal and love I bear to my Country, which I see (for the happy and flourishing estate thereof, and for the maintenance of God's true Religion, and defence of his Church and congregation) wanteth no enemies to pursue the danger of it, nor coullorable friends that seek to betray it to spoil, which could they as easily accomplish, as they willingly put in practice, and had not GOD more care of his chosen, than their malicious stomachs can afford: God knows the heavy burden should lie on our necks, which I pray God they never live to lay on, nor we ●o feel.  
But as the mark is easily seen, which they so mightily and continually aim at, and for that 
The mark that these Traitors aim at, may be easily discerned.  God (praised be his name therefore) hath hitherto prevented all their traitorous attempts, turning their daggers into their own bosoms, and causing them to fall into the pit they made for others: so is it expedient for us to continue in prayer, that it may please him long to vouchsafe that provident care over us, and that we likewise apply our own dutiful wisdom and policy, to uphold that plant by whose means we prosper, and prevent their devices, who would rob us of so high a treasure.  
It is our dread and sovereign Lady, whose shining virtues fret the polluted eyes of these unnatural Subjects: whose heroical government (which no Realm in the world is able to match for peaceable continuance) that sticketh like sharp needles in their venoumed and disdainful stomachs; and it is the rare precedent of her famous life, her Christian zeal, and abundance of all excellent gifts, which worthily winneth the hearts of her true Subjects, and inflameth them with desire of her long prosperity, that calling their barbarous conceit into question, thundereth such Majesty into their deceived ears, as they pollishe their tongues to deprave, spare no penne-worke to slander, whet their weapons, and devise all treacheries that lost and forsaken minds can do, to extinguish the light of that Sun, whereon their seared-consciences will not suffer them to look, and to deface that perfect emerald, which the more they seek to blemish with the oil of venomous reports, the more perfect it showeth itself in beauty.  
I need not report unto you, for that your wisdoms 
The prosperity of the Prince, is the safety of her Kingdom.  and judgements are very well acquainted therewith, that the prosperity of the Prince, is the assured safety of the whole Kingdom and common wealth, and the least motion of grief that toucheth her, concerneth the whole state in general; by reason that her Highness is the most loving Mother and Nurse of all her good Subjects, and is likewise the husband of the common weal, married to the Realm, and the same by ceremony of Ring as solemnly signified, as any other marriage.  
Can we then that are her majesties children, her true and faithful subjects endure to see our mother wronged, her authority defamed, her life endangered: and shall we not think the same concerneth us? Can we see proud reprobates seek to sever the knot of love and agreement, which hath been justly and lawfully united between her and us, to yield our lives in slavery and servitude to an usurping tyrant: and shall not the breach of this bond of sacred wedlock, move us to regard how highly it harmeth us? Nature causeth the child to work all policies he may for his Mother's defence, and the estimation of that holy league of love, is of force to compel the faithful, to maintain and continue it.  
The case then touching us so nearly as it doth, 
The ear of the Prince's safety concerneth the very meanest Subject, much more the Magistrate, to whom she hath given office of honour.  the very meanest subject is bound for his Prince's defence, much more they whom God hath called to office of Magistracy and bearing rule: their care ought to be both night and day, how to set down good laws and orders, to be vigilant and careful in diligent search and enquiry, to bring such stubborn and graceless men to open light, who spurn at her Majesty, that hath put the Sword in your hands of honour and authority, and trying their deeds to be contrary to the duty of good Subjects, to let them be soon cut off by the sword of justice.  
And if I may (without offence) speak one word to your Honour and Worships, not by way of teaching, but for unlading some part of the burden of true love I bear to my Country: I would desire you to have an especial eye to the City of London, for it is a receptacle to many of these bad people, and many favourers & friends they have in the City, who bearing the countenance of good and honest Subjects, are nevertheless but hollow hearted, and give aid and relief to such as seek the ruin of the whole state.  
Your Honour and Worships shall notably witness the love you bear to God and his Church, and the zeal, affection and duty you own to her Majesty: in being respective to this especial cause, for it is high time, the enemies are now grown so bold and full of mischief, as if such as are in authority do not lay too their helping hands to repress them, they will in time beso wild, as they will be past bridleling.  
This shall be therefore my last request unto you, that the premises considered, the effect may be put in execution: and when you have perused this small work, I doubt not but you will think my request honest and lawful, and expedient to be redressed to the uttermost of your powers. Thus wishing prosperous success to all you go about, that may set forth God's glory, and be to her majesties defence from her enemies: I humbly take my leave.  
Your Honours and Worship's well-willer. A. M.   

A Watchwoord to England.  
THE state of this Realm considered, and specially such accidents touching the same, as late troubles have ministered, do make it daily more and more evident, how precious and how dear a jewel is the safety of the queens 
The safety of her Majesty, a thing most precious to all good Subjects.  most excellent Majesty, our most loving and beloved Sovereign Lady. Compare the time of her most noble and gracious government, with the times and ages long since past and gone, and especially with the miserable and dangerous days, immediately preceding her most happy, princely and comfortable reign: call to mind the weakness and perils wherein the common weal stood, before the coming of her highness to the Crown: weigh the infinite benefits, both bodily and ghostly that the whole Realm hath, and all her Subjects both have had, and do enjoy by her means: think upon the grievous and unspeakable miseries, that we all shall be like to sustain by the loss of her unvaluable presence. It shallbe plain, that he is wilfully blind that cannot see: he is wickedly malicious that will not acknowledge: he is obstinately stone hearted, that will not with sorrow and trembling deeply imprint in careful hart, those motions and thoughts, that such consideration shall lay before him. Remember the quiet of conscience, the comfort of true serving of GOD, the freedom of the 
The Queen's majesties government, aught with heedful care to be considered.  Realm, the deliverance of souls from foreign thraldom, the escape of the heavy yoke of strange Dominion, the recovery of wealth, the benefit of peace, the common and equal distribution of justice, the familiar cherishing of Nobility, the good preserving and love of the Commonalty, the mutual and tender kindness at home, the amity and awe abroad, the sweet enjoying of all these happy commodities: match herewith the danger and fear of losing them, how can it then be, but that the mind shallbe marvelously distracted? Great and full of diversities are the fits of a passioned Lover: but yet greatest where reason rulest least. far greater to a good mind must be the pangs of consideration in this case: but yet greatest where reason ruleth most. The silly Lover is transported (as they complain poor souls in their ditties) sometime with joy of his enjoying, sometime with fear of his foregoing, there is no mean or order of his excessive affection: and all is because the abused creature hath set his felicity in a wrong conceit. But if such vain, short, repentable, and feeble delight of fancy, have such force upon the mind of man: how much more ought the deep, wise, natural, and true impression of the eternal comfort of the soul, the good and safe estate, both of the common weal, and of the private haviour of himself, and of those things and persons that he holdeth dearest, yea, and of his posterity for ever, work more mighty, violent, & continual effects in the mind of an honest good man, that setteth his thoughts upon just and assured grounds? All these contemplations cannot but fill a good Christians, and a good subjects eye with sight and knowledge, how unestimable a treasure our noble and virtuous Queen Elizabeth is to the Realm of England, and the same cannot but 
The Queen's Majesty, a jewel of most high estimation, to the Realm of England. Res est solliciti plena timoris amor.  pierce his heart with strong fear & care for her preservation, so far as surely it were able (as in the dumb borne son of Croesus) break the strings of a tied tongue, to draw speech out of the most barbarous and rudest Subject: to cry out at her highness peril, and with such noise as he is able to make, though it were but as a Goose of the capitol, to give warning to the watchmen of the Tower of our safety. This hath moved me to forget how unskilful and how unapt I am, to treat of matters so far above me: and only to remember, how meet it is for all men to think of those things that touch them so nearly, & when they have from point to point made due examination of them, to ring out the alarm bell of good council to their Country, or give them some watchword of passed perils, whereby they may the better prevent imminent extremities: wherein they may both manifest the care they have of their Prince's safety, as also the unfeigned affection they bear to their Country. It hath been, and yet remaineth extant to be seen, the many and sundry disordered attempts, which have threatened danger to her majesties most royal person, and peril to the whole state in general, whereby many good minds have been greatly discomforted, and those bad spirits, which have thirsted and laboured in these undutiful actions, have been encouraged to run on in their disloyal determinations. A thing much to be lamented, that in the Sunshine of so many happy blessings, whereof this Realm (so long 
The Realm of England never so long time together, more godly and quietly governed.  time together) never heretofore tasted, such wicked and malicious natures should breed amongst us, both to overthrow ourselves, and the quietness of a number well affected. It is good for such wilful heads to take heed in time, and that the overthrow of such seditious practices (wherewith this Realm from time to time hath been too much troubled) may remain for a warning to them: and in midst of their secret confederacies to remember this, that to exalt their hearts against Gods anointed, is the very ready way to bring themselves to confusion. The only root and original of such unnatural humours in men, is Treason, which of all other things is most odious in the sight of God, and amongst men hath least prosperous success: for proof whereof, and because this Watchword may the more deeply enter the thoughts and cogitations of them, to whose hands it shall happen, it shall not be much amiss for me to make repetition of former treacherous practices, and withal to declare their end and success, which happily may cause some men to alter their bad affections, and seeing the accidents that hath heretofore chanced in their own Country, they may forsake those contrary natures whereby they are governed, and so in time show themselves more vehement in duty.  

In the reign of King Richard the first.  
THere was one William Fitz Osbert a Citizen of London, 
William Fitz Osbert got him a traitorous company, and rebelled against the King. 1196.  a man but of poor and mean degree, yet endued with a quick wit and an eloquent tongue (as many of these secret persuaders are) he persuaded the people to seek liberty and freedom, and so provided himself of two and fifty thousand Londoners to rise against the King. And to maintain his traitorous enterprise, he took the Steeple of Bow Church in Cheap, and fortified it with Munition and victuals: but in the end the Church was assaulted by the Citizens, and William with his Complices were taken, and so brought to the Archbishop in the Tower, where he was condemned, & by the heels drawn from thence to a place called the Elms, where he was hanged with nine of his fellows.   

In the reign of King Henry the third.  
KIng Henry the third lying at UUoodstocke, a Scholar 
A Scholar of Oxford attempted to kill the King. 1239.  of Oxford feigning himself mad, enterprised to have slain the King in his Chamber: but he was taken, and after long imprisonment, was torn in pieces with horses at Coventrie.   

In the reign of King Edward the second.  
THere was one john Poydras, a Tanner's son of Excester, who in divers places of England named himself 
john Poydras, a Tanner's son of Excester, claimed to be King. 1316.  the Son of King Edward the first, and said, that by a false Nurse he was stolen forth of his Cradle, and Edward that then was King put in his place: but shortly after he was convict of his untruth, when he confessed, that he did it by the motion of a familiar spirit, which he had in his house in the likeness of a Cat, whom he had served for three years (as all Traitors else forget God, and serve the devil) but for this his service, he was not long after hanged at North-hampton.  
Edward de Bruis the King of Scots Brother, who for 
Edward de Bruis for unjustly crowning himself King of Ireland, was beheaded. 1317.  the space of three years had assaulted Ireland, and unjustly usurping the King of England's title, crowned himself King thereof: was at length taken by the King of England's subjects, and was beheaded at Dundalke.  
The Town of Berwicke was betrayed to the Scots, 
They that betrayed the Town of Berwick, were hanged for their labour. 1317.  through the Treason of Peter Spalding, and other English men: whom the King of Scots (in reward of their treachery) caused to be hanged, for being Traitors to their own Country.  
Thomas Earl of Lancaster, having provided himself of a great number of his confederacy, rebelled against 
Thomas Earl of Lancaster beheaded, for rebelling against the King: and many of his confederates executed. 1321.  King Edward the second, whereupon the King pursued the Rebels, and at Borowbridge the said Earl of Lancaster, with Lords, Knights and other, to the number of three score and five were taken. All these were condemned by the judgement of Andrew Herkeley Earl of Carlisle, and on the two and twenty of March following, Thomas Earl of Lancaster was beheaded, and Warin de Lile, William Tochet, Thomas Manduit, Henry Bradbourne, William Fitzwilliam the younger, and William de Cheyney Barons, were hanged and quartered at Pomfret. john Mowbray, Roger Clifford, and Goceline Deynvile, were drawn and quartered at York. Bartholomew Badlesmere at Canterbury. Henry de Mountfort, and Henry Willington at Bristol. john Clifford and Roger Elinbrough at Gloucester. William Kerdife and Henry Chies at London. Frances de Aldham at Windsor. Thomas Culpeper at Winchelsea. The rest of their complices were bestowed in divers prisons.  
Andrew Herkeley Earl of Carlisle, under colour of 
Andrew Herkeley Earl of Carlisle hanged and quartered. 1322.  peace, feigned a marriage, which by the King & his Nobles was reputed for Treason: whereupon he was apprehended by his trusty friend Sir Anthony de Lucy, and afterward was disgraded of the Earldom, by the taking the sword from him, and cutting off his spurs, than was he hanged and quartered at Carlisle, his head being sent to London, and his quarters to four parts of the land.  
Hugh Spencer the elder, and Hugh Spencer his son, 
The two Spencer's very trouble some traitors to the Realm: in the end had their just deserts. 1326.  were very troublesome persons to the Realm, and caused many seditious treasons to arise daily: but the Father was taken at Bristol, where he was drawn to the Gallows in his Armour, and so hanged, then was he taken down and beheaded, and his body hanged up again, and after four days his body was cut in pieces, and cast to the Dogs to be eaten, but his head was sent to Winchester. Hugh Spencer his son was brought to Hereforde, where he was condemned without answer, and was drawn and hanged upon a pair of Gallows thirty foot high, and afterward was headed and quartered. Simon Reading and Robert Baldock, Bishop of Norwich, and the kings chancellor, who were partakers with them in their traitorous rebellions: the said Simon Reading was drawn and hanged on the same Gallows, but ten foot lower, and Robert Baldock died in Newgate with many torments. And many of their confederates were executed in other places, so that but few of them escaped without punishment.   

In the reign of King Edward the third.  
ROger Mortimer, for consenting to the murdering of 
Roger Mortimer, and others executed, for consenting to the murdering of the King's Father. 1330.  the King's Father, and many other notorious treasons, was condemned at Westminster in the presence of the whole Parliament, and afterward was drawn to the Elms and hanged on the common Gallows, where he hanged two days and two nights by the kings commandment: there were hanged with him, Sir Simon de Burford Knight, Sir William Burford that was justice, and john Deverel Esquire, who was desirous to have made open confession of the kings Fathers cruel death, but he could not be suffered.  
The Londoners sought to kill john of Gaunt the King's 
The Mayor and Aldermen of London deposed, because the Londoners sought to kill the kings Son. 1377.  Son, Duke of Lancaster, for a word which he had spoken against their Bishop: whereupon the King deposed the Mayor and Aldermen of London, and appointed other in their places, and Sir john Minsterwoorth Knight, with others, were drawn and hanged for the same.   

In the reign of King Richard the second.  
BY the wicked persuasions of john Ball a seditious 
The Commons of Kent & Essex, rebelled against the King, their Captains being jacke straw and Watte Tyler. 1381.  Priest, the Commons of Kent and Essex rebelled against the King, choosing for their Captains in their rebellion, Watte Tiler and jacke Straw. They came to Black Heath, and so on to London, and entered the City on Corpus Christi day, where they destroyed many goodly places of the Nobles and others, as the Savoy, Saint john's by Smithféeld, the Manor of Highburie by Yseldon, and the Temple, where the Prentices of the Law were lodged for the increase of their Study. They took out of the Tower of London (where the King was then lodged) Simon Sudburie Archbishop of Canterbury, Lord chancellor of England, Robert halls Prior of Saint john's, and Treasurer of England, William Apelton a Friar Minor the kings Confessor, and john Leg a Sergeant of the Kings, and beheaded them all on the Tower Hill. They beheaded divers other in many places, as Sir john Cavendishe Lord chief justice of England, the Prior of S. Edmundesburie, and other. Richard Lions a famous Lapidary of London, was drawn out of his house, and beheaded in Cheap. They beheaded all men of Law, as well Prentices and utter Barresters, as justices and all jurors that they might get into their hands. They spared none whom they thought to be learned, were it never so little, especially if they found any to have pen and ink, they pulled off his hood, and cried out all with one voice, hale him into the streets, and cut off his head. The King to pacify their 
The King offereth the rebels peace,  fury offered them peace, on condition they would cease from burning of houses and slaughter of men, which the Essex men took, and returned home, but the Kentish men remained burning and killing still, as before. Whereupon the King sendeth Sir john Newton Knight to Wat Tiler their Captain, to entreat him to come talk with him about 
The King sent to Wat Tyler.  his own demands: the Knight having done his message, Wat Tiler mallepartlie answered, that he would come at his own pleasure, nevertheless, he followed softly after the Knight, and when he came near Smithféeld, where the King tarried his coming, the same Knight was sent again to meet him, and understand his requests. Wat Tiler seeing the Knight come near unto him on horse back, proudly said, it had become him better to be on 
Note the pride of a traitor.  foot in his presence: the Knight answered, that it was no harm, sith himself was also on horseback, therewith Wat Tiler drew his Dagger, and offering to strike, called the Knight Traiteur, whereupon the Knight drew his dagger too, and answered him that he lied. The King seeing the Knight in danger, commanded him to alight on foot, and to deliver his Dagger to Watte Tyler, whose proud mind would not be so pacified, but would needs run on the Knight: whereupon there came to the King William Walwoorth the Mayor of London, and many other Knights and esquires, who affirmed that it would be a shameful reproach, if they should suffer the Knight to be murdered. At last the King commanded the Mayor to arrest the Rebel, which Mayor being a man of very valiant 
Wat Tyler arrested by the Mayor of London, and afterward slain.  courage, arrested Wat Tyler on the head with such a mighty stroke, as he caused him to fall down greatly astonished, than a number more environed the Rebel round about, and gave him so many wounds, as he had no life left in him, etc. jacke Straw being likewise taken, when at London he should lose his head, by the judgement of the Mayor, confessed as followeth.  
The same time (saith he) that we came to Black Heath, 
The confession of jacke straw.  when we sent for the King, we purposed to have murdered all Knights, esquires, and Gentlemen that should have come with him, and to have led the King (royally used) up and down, that with the sight of him, all men (especially the common people) might have come unto us the more boldly. And when we had provided ourselves of a sufficient multitude, we would have suddenly put to death in every Country, the Lords and Masters of the common people, in whom might appear to be either council or resistance against us. And specially we would have killed the Knights of Saint john's, lastly, we would have killed the King himself, and all men that had been of any possession, Bishops, Monks, Canons, Parsons: to be brief, we would have dispatched all such, only begging Friars should have lived, that might have sufficed for ministering the Sacraments through the whole Realm. And we would have made Kings at our pleasure, as Wat Tiler in Kent, and in every Shire one: but because this our purpose was hindered by the Archbishop, we studied how we might shortly bring him to his end. Against the same day that Watte Tyler was killed, we purposed that evening (because the poor people of London seemed to favour us) to set fire in four corners of the City, so to have burnt it, and to have divided the riches at our pleasure amongst us. He added, that these things they purposed to have done, as God should help him at the end of his life. After this his confession, he was beheaded, and his head set on London Bridge, by Watte Tilers, and many other.  
When these Rebels burned the Savoy, one of them 
One of the Rebels cast into the fire by his fellows.  took a goodly Silver piece, and hide it in his bosom, but an other had spied him, and told his fellows, who hurled him and the piece of Plate together into the fire.  
Two and thirty of them entering the Seller of the Savoy, 
Two and thirty of the Rebels mured up in a Seller.  drunk so much of sweet wines, that they were not able to come out again, but were shut in with wood and stones that mured up the door: they called and cried seven days after, and were heard of many, but none came to help them, so they died there.  
After a number had sacked the new Temple, what with labour and exceeding drinking of white Wine, they lay 
The Rebels murder one an other.  down under the walls and houses, and were slain like Swine: hatred and contention so arose amongst them, as they cruelly murdered one an other, and others also made quick dispatch of them, thus the just judgement of GOD brought the Traitors to their deserved end.  
john Ball Priest, who encouraged these traitors in their 
john Ball Priest, the comforter of the Rebels, hanged 1382.  rebellion, was brought to Saint Alban's, and there before the King was hanged and quartered: he would not ask the King forgiveness (as all traitors do the like) but utterly despised him.  
The principal leaders of the Commons in rebellion, were Wat Tyler, jack straw, john Kirkbie, Allen Threder, 
The names of the Rebels that would have made themselves Kings.  Thomas Scot, and Ralphe rug: these with other were leaders of the kentish and Essex men. At Mildenhall and Bury in Suffolk, was Robert Westbrome, that made himself King, and was most famous after john Wraw: who being Priest would not set crown upon crown, but left the name and crown to the said Robert.  
At Norwich, john Leicester a Dyer, exercised the name and power of a King: till he was taken and hanged for his pains, and so were most of them in many places.  
john Wraw, who was leader of them that rose at Mildenhall 
john Wrawe one of the leaders of Rebels, hanged. 1383.  and Bury, was drawn and hanged, though many thought he should have been redeemed with money.   

In the reign of King Henry the fourth.  
KIng Henry the fourth enjoying the Crown of England, and keeping his Christmas in his Castle at 
The Noble men rebelled against King Henry the fourth, and privily conspired to murder him. 1399.  Windsor, john Holland late Duke of Excester and Earl of Huntingdon, Thomas late Duke of Surrie and Earl of Kent, Edward late Duke of Aumerle and Earl of Rutland, son to the Duke of York, john Montacute Earl of Salisbury, Thomas Spencer Earl of Gloucester, Sir Ralphe Lumley, Sir Thomas Blunt, Sir Benedic Cely Knights, with other that joined with them, conspired against King Henry, and appointed privily to murder him, under the colour of justing and other Pastimes pretended. But the King understanding of their pretence by the Mayor of London, left Windsor, and came in his company to London, so that they miss of him when they came to Windsor, where they entered the Castle with four hundred men. When they saw how they were deceived, they came to Sunning, where the Queen that was wife to King Richard deposed lay, where they persuaded the household, that King Richard, who before was deposed from his authority, and kept prisoner in Pomfret castle, was as then escaped out of prison, and they would go to him. From thence they went to Wallingford, afterward to Abington, warning the people to take Arms upon them, and to go meet their old King Richard. Then they came to Circester, where they bruited that King Richard was in company with them, and to make their words of the better credit, they had gotten a Chaplain of King Richards called Madeleine, so like him in all proportion and favour, as the one could hardly he known from the other. This Chaplain they had put in 
The people of the Town fought against the Rebels, and took the chiefest of them, and beheaded them.  Armour, with a Crown on his helmet, that all men might take him for King Richard: but the people of the Town remembering their duty to their Prince, misliked of their proceedings, whereupon they fought against them, and at length took the chiefest of them, and led them to the Abbay there, where they put them in a fair chamber under safe custody. Then the Lords seeing the people so vehement in duty to their King, stood in great fear, and imagined by what means they might escape forth of their hands, so they caused some of their servants to set fire on certain houses in the Town, thinking the people would have such regard to slake the fire, as they would be glad to forsake them: but it chanced far contrary, for the people than increased more and more in rage against them, and drew them by violence into the Market place, where they beheaded the Duke of Excester and the Earl of Salisbury, and six and twenty of their attendants were led to Oxford, where they were beheaded in the Castle, also Sir Thomas Blunt Knight was beheaded with them. The week next following, Thomas Spencer Earl of Gloucester was beheaded at Bristol, and at the same time, john Holland Earl of Huntingdon, and brother to King Richard on the Mother's side, was beheaded at Plashie in Essex, and at London was beheaded Sir Barnard Brocas, john Madeleine the Priest that was so like King Richard, and an other Priest called William Feribe, and thus the traitors sped for rebelling against their King.  
There was found in the kings bed clothes, an iron with three sharp pikes, slender and round standing upright, 
King Henry escapeth a great danger. 1401.  laid there by some traitor, that when the King should have laid him down, he might have thrust himself upon them: but by God's assistance he escaped that traitorous devise.  
A Priest of Warwick, who conspired against King 
A Priest, a Prior, and a Doctor of Divinity being a Grey Friar, were all executed for treason. 1403.  Henry, was drawn, hanged, and quartered. Also Walter Waldocke Prior of laud in Leicester sheyre, for traitorous speeches against the King, was hanged and headed. Moreover, one Richard Friseby, Doctor of Divinity, avouched, that in the quarrel of King Richard, (who was deposed for his evil government, and was likewise dead) he would fight against any man, even to the death: for which traitorous words, he was condemned, drawn and hanged in his religious habit and weed. And not long after Sir Roger Claringdon Knight, with him an Esquire and a Yeoman were beheaded, and eight Grey Friars hanged and headed at London, and two at Leicester, all of them executed for traitorous words against the King.  
Thomas Percy Earl of Worcester, Sir Richard Vernon, 
The Earl of Worcester, Sir Richard Vernon, and the Baron of Kinderton beheaded, for rebelling against the king. 1404.  the Baron of Kinderton, with divers other rebellious persons, put themselves in Arms against the King, near unto Shrewesburie, in a place called Old Field, alias Bull Field: but the Earl of worcester, the Baron of Kinderton, and Sir Richard Vernon, were taken and beheaded at Shrewesburie.  
Henry Percy Earl of Northumberland, Richard Scrope Archbishop of York, Thomas Mowbray Earl Martial, Thomas Lord Bardolphe and other, conspired against the King, and caused the Citizens of York to take part 
The Archbishop of York, and the Earl Marshal beheaded, for rebelling against the King. 1406.  with them in their rebellion: but the kings power following them, forced the Earl of Northumberland, and the Lord Bardolphe to take their flight into Scotland, but the Archbishop of York and the Earl Martial were taken, and beheaded at York.  
A Squire of Wales named Rice ap Dee, who had 
A Welsh Rebel executed. 1412.  long time rebelled against the King, was brought to London, and there was drawn, hanged and quartered.   

In the reign of King Henry the fift.  
THe King keeping his Christmas at his Manor of Eltham 
A secret conspiracy against the King, according as it is set down by I. Stowe.  seven miles from London, was given to understand that certain had conspired against him, either to have taken, or suddenly have slain him and his brethren on Twelfth day at night: whereupon the King sent word to the Mayor of London, that he should arrest all suspicious persons. The Mayor forthwith caused every Alderman in his Ward to keep great watch, and about ten of the clock at night went himself with a strong power, to the sign of the Axe without Bishop's gate, where he apprehended the man of the house, named john Burgate Carpenter, and seven other, and sent them to Eltham: where they confessed before the King, that they were confederate with Sir john Oldcastel, to fight against him and his Lords in S. Gyles Field above Holborn. On the morrow after Twelfth day, the King removed privily to UUestminster, and with 
King Henry kept the Field by Saint Giles above Holborn.  a great Army kept the Field by Saint Gyles, for he was warned that Sir john Oldcastell, and Sir Roger Acton, would be in the same Field on the next day following, with five & twenty thousand people: and the same night were taken more than four score men in Armour of the same faction. Also the King being told of an Ambushment in Harengay Park, sent thither certain Lords, who took many of them: among whom was one William Murle, a rich Malt man or Brewer of Dunstable, who had his two horses trapped with gold following him, and a pair of guilt Spurs in his bosom, for he thought to have been made Knight on the morrow. The twelfth day of januarie, three score and nine of them were condemned of treason at Westminster, and on the morrow after, seven and thirty of them were drawn from the Tower of London to Newgate, and so to Saint Gyles, and there in a place called Fickettes' field, were all hanged, 
Many of the Rebels hanged & burnt in Fickets field, and others executed soon after, for the same offence. 1414.  and seven of them burnt gallows and all. The nineteenth day of januarie were drawn and hanged Sir john Beverley Priest, john Burgate Carpenter, a text writer in Saint john's street, and a Glover on London Bridge, and shortly after Sir Roger Acton Knight was taken, who on the tenth of February was drawn, hanged and buried under the gallows.  
On the last of julie was discovered a great conspiracy against the King by three Lords, in whom above all the 
Three Noble men, whom the King best trusted and made great account of, conspired his death. 1416.  rest he reposed greatest trust and confidence: the chiefest of them was Henry Scrope Lord Treasurer, the second was Richard Earl of Cambridge, brother to Edward Duke of York, and the third was Sir Thomas Grey a Knight of the North. These three had caused Edmund Earl of March to swear upon a Book, not to disclose their council, and then they told him, that they intended to kill the King, and to make the said Edmund King, the which if he refused to take upon him, they would likewise kill him. The Earl prayed them to give him one hours space, to take advisement what he were best to do, which being granted him, the Earl went secretly and told the King thereof, who caused them forthwith to be apprehended and brought before him, where they confessed the treason: for the which, on the sixth of August they were arraigned in the kings presence, and the same day all three beheaded. The Earl was buried head and all: but the other two heads were sent the one to York, and the other to New Castle upon Tine to be set up.  
john Bennet Woolman, who had scattered about London 
john Bennet, executed for scattering seditious libels in London. 1417.  divers Schedules full of sedition, was drawn, hanged, and beheaded on Michaelmas day: and the eight day of October, a Parchment-maker of Trylmell street, was drawn, hanged and headed, for harbouring Sir john Oldcastell, contrary to the kings commandment.   

In the reign of King Henry the sixth.  
AT Abington were gathered together a great many 
William mandevil, Captain of a lewd company of rebellious persons at Abington, executed there, and others of his company in divers other places. 1433.  of lewd and rebellious persons, who sought to make a great uproar in the Realm: but the Lord Protector road thither with his company, and arrested there the Bailiff of the Town, named William mandevil a Weaver, who was appointed for their Captain, and he had named himself jack Sharp of Wigmers' Land in Wales. When he was examined, he confessed that he meant to have done many mischiefs, especially against Priests, so that he would have made their heads as cheap as sheeps heads, that is to say, three for a penny, or as some writ ten for a penny: he was drawn, hanged, and headed at Abington, and his head was sent to London and set on the Bridge, the rest of his company were executed in divers other places, for example to other.  
The thirteenth day of julie following, one Richard russel 
Richard russel executed.  Wooll-man, was drawn, hanged, and quartered: for that he would have made Dukes and Carls at his own pleasure.  
Roger Bolingbrooke a great Astronomer, with Thomas Southwell a canon of Saint Stephen's Chapel at 
Conspirators of the King's death by Necromancy.  Westminster, were taken as conspirators of the kings death: for it was said, that the same Roger should labour to consume the kings person by way of Necromancy, and the said Thomas should say Masses in the Lodge of Harnesey Park beside London, upon certain Instruments, with the which the said Roger should use his craft of Necromancy against the Faith, and was assenting to the said Roger in all his works. And the five and twenty day of julie being Sunday, Roger Bolingbrooke with all his Instruments of Necromancy, that is to say, a painted Chair wherein he was wont to sit, upon the four corners of which Chair stood four sword, and upon every sword an Image of Copper hanging, with many other Instruments beside: he stood on a high scaffold before Paul's Cross, holding a sword in his right hand, and a Sceptre in his left, arrayed in a marvelous strange attire, and after the Sermon was done, by Master Law Bishop of Rochester, he abjured all Articles belonging to the Art of Necromancy, or against the Faith. Afterward, these two were condemned of Treason, Thomas South well died in the Tower of London, but Roger Bolingbrooke 
Roger Bolingbrook executed. 1442.  was drawn from the Tower to Tyburn, and there hanged and quartered.  
john David servant to William Catur, an Armourer 
A Combat between a Master and his servant, who appeached him of treason. 1447.  dwelling in Saint Dunston's Parish in Fleetstreet, appeached his Master of Treason: and a day being assigned for them to fight a Combat together in Smithféeld, the Master was there slain by his said servant.  
The Duke of Gloucester being arrested by the Lord Beaumond 
The Duke of Gloucester arrested, died soon after, but five of his men were hanged, and after pardoned. 1448.  high Constable, the Duke of Buckingham, & the Duke of Somerset, & other, for special matters, within few days after he died with sorrow: but two & thirty of his principal servants being sent to divers prisons, five of them were arraigned and condemned at London, whose names were Sir Roger Chamberlain Knight, Middleton, Herbert, and Arteyse esquires, and Richard Nedham Gentleman, all which five were drawn from the Tower of London to Tyburn, and there hanged, but they were let down quickly, stripped naked, marked with a knife to be quartered, and then a charter was showed them for their lives: but the Yeoman of the Crown had their livelihood, and the hangman had their clothes.  
Thomas Thany, otherwise called Blue beard a Fuller, 
Blue beard hanged for raising rebellion. 1450.  was taken beside Canterbury for raising a rebellion: who afterward was hanged and quartered.  
The Commons of Kent arose against the King, having to their Captain jacke Cade who named himself Mortimer, 
The Commons of Kent rebelled, jacke Cade being their Captain. 1451.  Cousin to the Duke of York, and of some he was called john Amend all: this Captain and his company came to Black Heath, and there kept the Field more than a month, pilling and spoiling the Country round about. At length the kings Proclamation going abroad against the Rebels, jacke Cade was taken by a Gentleman of Kent named Alexander Eden, in a Garden in Sussex, there was he slain at Hothféeld, afterward brought in a Cart to London, where he was quartered, his head set on London Bridge, and his quarters sent to divers places in Kent: eight men were executed at Canterbury for the same offence, and in other Towns of Kent and Sussex was done the like execution.   

In the reign of King Edward the fourth.  
WAlter Walker, a Grocer that dwelled in Cheap, for 
Walter Walker beheaded for words against the King. 1461.  certain words that he spoke touching King Edward, was beheaded in Smithféeld on the twelfth day of March.  
Nicholas Faunt Mayor of Canterbury, Spicing, Quintin and other, were hanged and headed at Canterbury, for rebelling 
The Mayor of Canterbury and other executed for rebellion.  against King Edward: the heads of Spicing and Quintin were set on Algate of London.  
Thomas the Bastard Faulconbridge, who took part 
The Bastard Faulconbridge lost his head. 1472.  with the Rebels in Kent against the King, was taken at Southampton, and was beheaded at the Castle of Mildeham in Yorkshire, his head was sent to London, and there set on the Bridge.  
Thomas Burdet an Esquire of Warwickeshiere, son to Sir Nicholas Burdet, for speaking of Treasonable 
Thomas Burdet beheaded for treason. 1478.  words against the King: was condemned of Treason, drawn from the Tower of London to Tyburn, and there beheaded.   

In the reign of King Edward the fift.  
TO set down the troublesome accidents happening in this kings reign, would require a very large discourse, & grow to greater quantity than the scope that I have intended: beside, for that troubles did still follow one in an others neck, both in his life time, as also after his death, by reason he left two Sons, who were so young in years, as they could not take the government upon them, I will therefore refer you to the Chronicles, which at large will certify you of that, which I am loath here to rehearse: yet it shall not be a miss to report unto you, how the King lying on his death bed, desired to pacify and set in good agreement, those that had long time been heavy enemies, especially the Lord Marquis Dorset, the queens 
The Lord Marques Dorset, and the Lord Hastings, great enemies.  Son by her first Husband, and William the Lord hastings, a Noble man then Lord Chamberlain: and for his Highness would gladly see all enmity ceased before he died, he called them into his Chamber, when lifting himself up, and being up held with pillows, he uttered to them a worthy Oration, which Oration, for that it showeth notable examples to unsteady and wilful heads, and delivereth good council to all in general, I have been so bold to insert it here, to show the Princely advise of so noble a King, as also to give some light of the troubles in those days.  

The Oration of the King, which he spoke lying on his death bed.  
MY Lords, my dear Kinsmen & allies, in what plight I lie you see, and I feel, by which the less while I look to live with you, the more deeply am I moved to 
Note the care of a Prince for his Country.  care in what case I leave you: for such as I leave you, such be my children like to find you. Which if they should (as God forbidden) find you at variance, might hap to fall themselves at war, ere their discretion would serve to set you at peace. Ye see their youth, of which I reckon the only surety to rest in your concord, for it sufficeth not that all you love them, if each of you hate other: if they were men, your faithfulness happily would suffice, but childehoodde must be maintained by men's authority, and slipper youth underpropped with elder council, which neither they can have, but ye give it, nor ye give it, if ye 'gree not. For where each laboureth to break that the other maketh, and for hatred of each others person, impugneth each others council: there must it needs be long ere any good conclusion go forward. And also while either party laboureth to be chief, 
The danger where flattery is more esteemed, then true and faithful dealing.  flattery shall have more place then plain and faithful advise, of which must needs ensue the evil bringing up of the Prince, whose mind in tender youth infected, shall readily fall to mischief & riot, and draw down with his noble Realm to ruin: but if Grace turn him to wisdom, which if God send, than they that by evil means before pleased him best, shall after fall furthest out of favour, so that ever at length evil drifts draw to nought, and good 
A special note for all traitors.  plain ways prosper. Great variance hath there long been between you, not always for great causes: sometime a thing right well intended, our miss construction turneth unto worse, or a small displeasure done us, either our own affection, or evil tongues aggrieveth: but this I wots well, ye never had so great cause of hatred, as ye have of love. That we be all men, that we be Christian men, this shall I leave for Preachers to tell ye: and yet I wots near, whether any Preachers words ought more to move ye, than his that is by and by going to the place that they all preach of. But this shall I desire you to remember, that the one part of you is of my blood, the other of my allies, and each of you with other either of kindred or affinity, which Spiritual kindred of affinity (if the Sacraments of Christ's Church bear that weight with us, as would God they did) should no less move us to charity, than the respect of fleshly consanguinity. Our Lord forbidden, that you love together the worse, for the self cause you ought to love the better: and yet it happeneth, and no where find we so deadly debate, as among them, who by nature and law ought most to agree together.  
Such a pestilent Serpent is ambition, and desire of 
Ambition a pestilent and deadly Serpent, whose infection where he cometh, turneth all to mischief.  vainglory and sovereignty, which among States where he once entereth, creepeth so far forth, till with division and variance he turneth all to mischief: first longing to be best, afterward equal with the best, and at last chief & above the best. Of which immoderate appetite of worship, and thereby of debate and dissension, what loss, what sorrow, what trouble hath within these few years grown in this Realm, I pray God as well forget, as we well remember: which things if I could as well have foreséen, as I have with my more pain than pleasure proved, by God's blessed Lady (for that was ever his oath) I would never have won the courtesy of men's knees, with the loss of so many heads. But seeing things past cannot 
The remembrance of misfortunes past, aught to teach us to be fearful of the like.  be called again, much aught we the more beware, by what occasion we have taken so great hurt before, that we est 'zounds fall not in that occasion again. Now is all these griefs past, and all is (God be thanked) quiet, and likely right well to prosper in wealthful peace under your Ousins my children, if God send them life, and you love: of which two things, the less loss were they, by whom though God did his pleasure, yet should the Realm always find Kings, and peradventure as good Kings. But if you among yourselves in a Child's reign fall at debate, 
A good note for this present time of peace.  many a good man shall perish, and happily he too, ere this Land find peace again. Wherefore in these last words that ever I look to speak with you, I exhort you and require you all, for the love that you have ever borne to me, for the love that I have ever borne to you, for the love that our Lord beareth unto us all, from this time forward all griefs forgotten, each of you love other: which I verily trust you will, if you any thing regard, either God or your King, affinity or kindred, this Realm your own Country, or your own surety.   
And therewithal the King enduring no longer to sit up, laid him down on his right side, his face towards them: and none was there present that could refrain from weeping. But the Lords recomforting him with as good words as they could, and answering for the time as they thought to stand with his pleasure, there in his presence (as by their words appeared) each forgave other, and joined their hands together, when (as it after appeared by their deeds) their hearts were far a sunder.  
The young King (after the decease of his Father) came towards London, when the Duke of Gloucester his Uncle began greatly to thirst for the kingdom, and waxed very envious that so young a Prince should reign: whereupon he deprived the young King of them that were nearest about him, and whom he thought would hinder his aspiring mind. First Sir Anthony Wooduile Lord Rivers, 
The Lord Rivers put in ward.  and brother to the Queen, who had the governance and ordering of the young King, he caused to put him in durance, and afterward even in the kings presence, he procured a quarrel to be picked with the Lord Richard Grey, the Kings other Brother by the Mother, and arrested him and Sir Thomas Vaughan Knight, and so far 
The Duke of Gloucester caused the Lord Rivers, the Lord Grey, and Sir Thomas Vaughan to be beheaded.  proceeded he in his determination, by the aid of the Duke of Buckingham and others, as the Lord Rivers, the Lord Grey & Sir Thomas Vaughan were sent into the North parts to sundry prisons, but afterward were all beheaded at Pomfret. Then did he take upon him the governance of the young King, and was called the Lord Protector: when having the King in his custody, he could not be yet contented, except he had the other brother too, and therefore by means of the Lord Cardinal, he prevailed in his purpose, and brought the other Child to the King his Brother into the Bishop's Palace at Paul's, and from thence through the City honourably into the Tower, out of 
The young King and his Brother brought to the Tower.  the which after that day they never came abroad. When the Protector had both the Children thus in his custody, he opened his intent more boldly, both to certain other men, as also chiefly to the Duke of Buckingham, that he would needs be King himself in all the haste, and he should have the Duke's aid to make him King, beside, the Protectors only lawful Son should marry the Duke's daughter, and that the Protector should grant him the quiet possession of the Earldom of Hertforde, and beside these requests of the Duke, the Protector promised him of his own mind a great quantity of the King's Treasure, and of his household stuff.  
In brief, the Protector taketh upon him to be King, 
The Protector crowned King, by the name of King Richard the third.  and so prevailed that he was crowned King: but when he remembered that his two Nephews were living in the Tower, and one of them the right King in deed, he persuaded himself (as very well he might) that men would account him to have no right to the Realm, therefore he thought to dispatch them out of the way, as though the kill of his kinsmen could amend his cause, & make him a kindly King. Upon this he sent one john green whom 
King Richard sendeth to have the two young Princes put to death in the Tower.  he specially trusted, to Sir Robert Brakenburie Constable of the Tower, with a letter & credence also, that the same Sir Robert should in any wise put the two Children to death: but when john green had done his errand to Sir Robert, he plainly answered, that by no means he would put them to death. When King Richard perceived he could not prevail that way, he broke the matter to Sir james Tirrell, whom he found very tractable to his intent, wherefore he sent him on the morrow with a Letter to Sir Robert Brakenburie, by which Letter he was commanded to deliver to Sir james all the keys of the Tower for one night, to the end he might there accomplish the kings pleasure, in such things as he had given him commandment. After which Letter delivered, and the keys received, Sir james appointed the night ensuing to destroy the two young Princes, devising before and preparing the means.  
The Prince so soon as the Protector had left that name, and took upon himself to be King, was thereof informed, 
The young Prince informed that his Uncle would be King, and his answer to the same.  that he should not reign, but his Uncle would have the Crown. At which words the Prince being greatly abashed, fetching a heavy sigh, said: Alas, I would mine Uncle would let me have my life yet, though I lose my kingdom. Then he that told him the tale, used him with good words, and put him in the best comfort he could: But forthwith was the Prince and his Brother both shut up, and all other removed from them, only one 
The Prince & his Brother shut up close prisoners.  Black Will, or Willam Slaughter excepted, who was set to serve them and see them sure. After which time, the Prince never tied his points, nor did any thing of himself, but with the young babe his Brother lingered in thought and heaviness, till this traitorous death delivered them out of that wretched estate. For Sir james Tirrell devised that 
Sir james appointed who should murder the Princes.  they should be murdered in their beds: to the execution whereof he appointed miles Forrest, one of the four that kept them, a fellow fleshed in murder before time, and to him he joined john Dighton his own horse-kéeper, a big, broad, square, strong knave.  
Then all the other being removed from them, this miles Forrest and john Dighton, about midnight (the silly Children lying in their beds) came into the Chamber, and suddenly lapped them up amongst the clothes: and they had so bewrapped them and entangled them, keeping down by force the featherbed and pillows hard unto their mouths, that within a while, smothered and stifled, their breath failing them, they gave up to God their innocent 
The young King and his Brother murdered.  souls into the joys of Heaven, leaving to the tormentors their bodies dead in the bed. Which after that the cruel wretches perceived, first by struggling with the pains of death, and after long lying still to be throughly dead, they laid their bodies naked upon the bed, and fetched Sir james to see them: who upon the sight of them, caused those murderers to bury them at the stair foot, meetly deep in the ground, under a great heap of stones. Then road Sir james in great haste to King Richard, and 
King Richard thanketh Sir james for murdering the Princes.  showed him all the manner of the murder, who gave him great thanks, and (as some say) there made him Knight: but he allowed not their burying in so vile a corner, saying, that he would have them buried in a better place, because they were a kings sons. Upon this, as it is reported, a Priest belonging to Sir Robert Brakenburie, took up the bodies again, and secretly interred them in such a place, as by the occasion of his death, who only knew it, could never since come to light. Very troth it is, and well known, that at such time as Sir james Tirrell was in the Tower, for treason committed against the most famous Prince King Henry the seventh, both Dighton and he were examined, and they confessed the murder in manner above written, but whether the bodies were removed they could nothing tell.  
And thus were these two noble Princes, these innocent tender children, borne of a most royal blood, brought up in great wealth, likely long to live, reign and rule in the Realm, shortly shut up in prison, and privily thus murdered, their bodies cast God knows where, by the cruel ambition of their unnatural Uncle, and his despiteful tormentors. Which things on every part well pondered, God never gave this Realm a more notable example, neither in what uncertainty standeth this worldly weal, or what mischief worketh the proud enterprises of an high heart, or finally, what wretched end ensueth such unnatural 
miles Forrest rotten in pieces to death.  cruelty. For first to begin with the bloody actors of this murder, miles Forrest at saint Martin's piecemeal rotted away. Dighton yet walketh (as are mine Author's 
Dighton in good forwardness to be hanged.  words at that time) in good possibility to be hanged ere he die. Sir james Tirrell died at the Tower Hill, being 
Sir james Tyrrel beheaded for treason.  beheaded for treason. King Richard himself was afterward slain in the field, hacked and hewed at his enemies hands, harried on horseback dead, his hair in despite 
King Richard himself slain in the field.  torn and tugged like a cur Dog. In his life time, by credible report of such as were secret with his Chamberlain, after this abominable deed was done, he never was quiet in his mind: he never thought himself sure, where he went abroad, he still privily looked about him, his body was secretly fenced, his hand ever upon his Dagger, his countenance and manners like one always ready to strike again, sore wearied with care and watch, he rather slumbered then slept, troubled with fearful dreams, suddenly sometime he started up, leapt out of his bed, and ran about the Chamber, so was his restless heart continually tossed and tumbled, with the tedious impression and stormy remembrance of his abominable deed. A notable example doubtless, to all such as take like enterprise in hand, that cannot be contented to live within compass of duty, but their aspiring thoughts must stretch further, then either their habillitie will serve them, or God suffer them. The seat of a Prince is a place of great Majesty, and none but such as GOD hath appointed, can contain themselves in that Royal room: then if they wilfully covet that place, for which both reason and duty saith, they are far unfit, such is the justice of him, by whom kings rule, and Prince's sway their Sovereignty, as the pleasure they thought to have in that high Office, is a very dagger to their hearts, and such an eating worm to their consciences, as by this example before you may plainly perceive. Let Princes therefore be honoured and feared as they ought, and let Subjects live in true and faithful obedience to them, because it is a chief and an especial article of their duty.   

In the reign of King Henry the seventh.  
ON the two and twentieth day of February, were arraigned 
Certain persons executed for making seditious & slanderous libels against the King. 1494.  in the Guild Hall of London four persons, to wit, Thomas Bagnall, john Scot, john Heth, and john Kennington, who were Sanctuary men of Saint martin's le Grand in London, and lately before were taken out of the said Sanctuary, for forging of seditious Bills, to the slander of the King & some of his Council: for which, three of them were adjudged to die, so on the five and twenty day of February, the said three persons, with a Fleming and a Yeoman of the Crown, were all five executed at Tyburn.  
Pierce or Perkin Werbecke, a Fleming borne, by the 
Peter Werbecke a Fleming, named himself King Edwardes second Son: for which divers of his company were executed in sundry places. 1497.  council of Margaret Duchess of Burgoigne, named himself Richard of York, King Edward's second Son: he and his company arrived at Deal in Kent, where when they perceived they could have no comfort of the Country in their rebellion, they withdrew themselves to their Ships again. But the Mayor of Sandwich encountered with them, and took alive of them one hundred, three score and nine persons, among the which were five Captains, Mountford, Corbette, Whitbelt, Quintine and Gemine. And on the twelfth of julie, john Peche Esquire and Sheriff of Kent, brought unto London Bridge these hundred three score and nine persons, where the Sheriffs of London received them, and conveyed them in Cartes and long ropes to the Tower of London, and to Newgate. Not long after, a hundred and fifty of them were hanged in Kent, Essox, Sussex and Norfolk, the residue were executed at Tyburn, and Wapping in the Whose beside London.  
A Commotion was made by the Commons of Cornwall, who under the leading of james Tuchet of Audley, 
A commotion against the King by the commons of Cornwall, under the conduct of the Lord Audley, and Michael joseph a Black Smith. 1498.  Lord of Audley, with Michael joseph, a Horse Farrer or Blacksmith of Bodman, and other, came to Black heath, where the King met with them, and discomfited the Rebels, taking their Captains: and there were slain of the Rebels about three hundred, and a thousand and five hundred of them taken, the King gave to them that took them their goods. The Lord Audley was beheaded on the Tower hill, and the Black Smith, and Flamoke a Lawyer were hanged, headed and quartered at Tyburn.  
A shoemakers son in bishops gate street of London, was hanged at Saint Thomas waterings on shrove 
A shoemakers son hanged, for feigning himself to be the Earl of Warwick. 1499.  tuesday, for naming himself to be Edward Earl of Warwick, Son to George Duke of Clarence: which Edward Earl of Warwick was then (and had been all the reign of this King) kept secret prisoner in the Tower of London.  
The aforenamed Perkin Werbeck, that named himself 
Perkin Werbeck hanged. 1500.  King Edward's Son, and john a Water Maior of Corfe, were executed at Tyburn.   

In the reign of King Henry the eight, of famous memory.  
EDward Duke of Buckingham was accused of high treason, 
Edward Duke of Buckingham condemned for treason, & beheaded 1522.  for which he was apprehended and sent to the Tower of London on the sixtéenth day of April, before which time the Duke's Chancellor was taken, who had confessed matter of high treason concerning the kings person. Shortly after the Duke was arraigned at Westminster, where were brought against him as witnesses, Sir Gilbert perk his Chancellor, john de la Court his Confessor, Charles Kneuet Esquire, and a Monk, Prior of Henton. In the end he was found guilty, and had judgement to be drawn, hanged and quartered: so on the seventh day of May following, the said Edward Duke of Buckingham, Earl of Hereford, Stafford and Northhampton, was beheaded on the Tower hill: such is the end of ambition, the credit of false Prophecies, and of evil life.  
In December, at the City of Coventrie, Francis Philip, 
Conspiracy at Coventrie, to have taken the Castle of Killingwoorth, and to make war against the King. 1524.  Schoolmaster to the kings Henxmen, Christopher Pickering Clerk of the kings Larder, and Anthony Manvile Gentleman, intended to have taken the kings Treasure of his subsidy, as the Collectors of the same came towards London, and therewith they intended to have raised men, and to have taken the Castle of Killingwoorth, and then to have made battle against the King: for the which, they were drawn, hanged and quartered at Tyburn the eleventh of February, the rest of their conspiracy were executed at Coventrie.  
Elizabeth Barton the holy Maid of Kent, and diverse 
The holy Maid of Kent & other executed. 1535.  other of her faction, were drawn from the Tower of London to Tyburn, & there hanged and headed, etc. for sundry conspiracies by them committed, in the matter of divorce between the kings Majesty, and Queen Katherine.  
The nine and twenty day of April, the Prior of the 
Certain Charterhouse Monks, and other executed for treason. 1536.  Charterhouse at London, the Prior of Bevall, the Prior of Exham, Reinoldes a Brother of Zion, & john Hail Vicar of Thistlewoorth, were all condemned of high treason: so the fourth day of May following, they were drawn, hanged and quartered at Tyburn, their heads and quarters set on the Gates of the City, all saving one quarter, which was set on the Charterhouse at London.  
The eighteen day of june, three Monks of the Charterhouse 
Charterhouse Monks executed for treason.  at London, named Exmewe, Middlemore, and Nidigate, were drawn to Tyburn, and there hanged and quartered for treason.  
The two and twenty day of june, Doctor john Fisher 
Bishop Fisher & Sir Thomas More beheaded. 1536.  was beheaded on the Tower hill, and his head was set on London Bridge: and the sixth of julie following, Sir Thomas More was beheaded on the Tower hill, for denying the kings supremacy.  
Thomas Fitzgarret, Son and heir to the Earl of 
The Earl of kildare and five of his uncles executed.  Kildare, was beheaded, & five of his Uncles were drawn to Tyburn, and there hanged and quartered for treason. In the same month, which was February, Nicholas 
Rebellion in Yorkshire.  Musgrave, Thomas Gylbie and other, stirred a new rebellion, and besieged the City of Carlisle, from whence they were driven, and many of them taken and put to death. Also the same month, Sir Francis Bigot, Sir Robert 
another conspiracy.  Constable, and other began a conspiracy, and for the same were attainted.  
The nine and twenty day of March, twelve men of Lincoln 
Lincolneshier rebels executed at Tyburn. 1537,  were drawn to Tyburn, & there hanged and quartered, for the rebellion in Lincolneshiere: five were Priests, and seven were Lay men, one was an Abbot, a Suffragan, Doctor Mackerel, an other was the vicar of Louthe in Lincolneshiere, and two Priests.  
In April, through certain Commissions sent into 
A commotion in Sommersetshiere, and divers of them executed, 1538.  Sommersetshiere to take up Corn, the people began to make an iusurrection, which was by Master Pawlet and others allayed: the beginners thereof to the number of three score were condemned, whereof fourteen were hanged and quartered, one of them was a woman.  
Friar Forrest was hanged by the middle in a chain of 
Friar Forrest hanged & burnt. 1539.  iron, and then burnt in Smithféeld, for denying the King to be supreme head of the Church, and with him was burnt the Image of Daruel Gatherine of Wales.  
Hugh Ferringdon Abbot of Reading, and two Priests 
Abbots of Reading and Glastemburie executed. 1540  named Ruge and Onion, for denying the kings supremacy, were hanged and quartered at Reading: the same day was the Abbot of Glastenburie Richard Whitting, hanged and quartered on Torre hill beside his Monastery, for the same cause.  
Thomas Lord Cromwell Earl of Essex, being in the Council Chamber, was suddenly apprehended and committed 
The Lord Cromwell beheaded.  to the Tower of London: the nine and twenty day of julie following, he was attainted by Parliament of heresy and treason, and the eight and twenty day of julie he was beheaded on the Tower hill, with the Lord Walter Hungerford of Heitisburie.  
Rober Barnes, Thomas Gerrard and William Jerome 
Six Priests, three burnt, and three hanged.  Priests, were burnt in Smithféed: and the same day Thomas Abel, Edward Powel and Richard Fetherstone, were hanged and quartered, for denying the kings supremacy.  
Laurance Cook a Prior of Dancalfe, William Horn 
Seven executed at Tyburn for treason. 1541.  a lay Brother of the Charterhouse, Giles Horn Gentleman, Clement Philpot, Edmond Bromham, Derby Kenham, Robert Bird, and jaruis Carrowe, were all put to death for treason.  
In April certain persons began a new rebellion in 
A new rebellion in Yorkshire.  Yorkshire, who were shortly after taken and put to execution in divers places: of which Leigh a Gentleman, Tatarsal a clothier, and Thorneton a Yeoman, were put to death at London. Sir john Nevell Knight, and ten persons more, were put to death at York.  
The Lord Leonard Grey being endighted of certain 
The Lord Leonard Grey beheaded.  points of treason, by him committed, and was alleged against him, was arraigned at Westminster: but he discharged the jury, and confessed the endightment, whereupon he had judgement, and was beheaded on the Tower hill on Saint Peter's even.  
The first day of julie a Welsh minstrel was hanged 
A Welsh minstrel hanged. 1542.  and quartered for singing of Songs, which were interpreted to be prophesying against the King.  
German Gardner, and Lark Parson of Chelsea, were 
German Gardner and other executed. 1544.  executed at Tyburn for denying the kings supremacy, with them was executed for other offences one Singleton: and shortly after, Ashbie was executed for the supremacy.   

In the reign of the noble Prince King Edward the sixth.  
IN the month of May, by means of a Proclamation for 
A commotion in Sommersetshiere 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  enclosures, the commons of Sommersetshiere and 〈…〉 made a commotion: but Sir Willam Herberd slew and executed many of the rebels.  
Also the commons of Cornwall and Devonshire rose 
Commotion in Cornwall and Devonshire.  against the Noblemen and Gentlemen, and besieged the City of Excester, which was valiantly defended. Against these Rebels was sent john Lord russel, Lord privy Seal, with a number of Soldiers, who entered the City of Excester the fift day of August, where they slew and took prisoners of the Rebels more than four thousand, and after hanged diverse of them in the Town and Country about.  
divers persons were apprehended as aiders of the foresaid 
Certain executed for aiding the Rebels.  Rebels, of the which one was hanged within Algate, and an other at the Bridge foot toward Southwark, both on Marie magdalen's day.  
The Rebels in Norfolk and Suffolk encamped them 
The Rebels in Norfolk and Susfolke encamped themselves.  selves at Mount Surrey, in a wood called Saint Nicholas Wood, near unto Norwich, against whom, Sir john Dudley Earl of Warwick, went with an Army, where, both he and a great number of Gentlemen meeting with the Rebels, were in such danger, as they thought all to have died in that place. But God that confoundeth the purpose of Rebels, brought it so to pass, that as well there as in all other places, they were partly by power constrained, partly by promise of their pardon, persuaded to submit themselves to their Prince. The Earl of Warwick 
Robert Ket Captain of the Rebels taken, and many of them slain and executed.  entered the City of Norwich the seven and twenty day of August, when he had slain above five thousand of the Rebels, and taken their chief Captain Robert Ket of Windham Tanner, who might dispend in lands fifty pounds by year, and was worth in movables above a thousand Marks, and when he had put to execution divers of the Rebels, in sundry places about Norwich, he returned.  
About this time also, a commotion began at Semer in the Northriding of Yorkshire, and continued in the Eastriding, 
Commotion in Yorkshire.  & there ended: the principal raisers whereof were William Ombler of East-hesterton Yeoman, Thomas Dale parish Clerk of Semer, and Stevenson of Semer. They being prevented by the Lord Precedent from rising at Wintringham, they drew to a place at Semer by the Sea coast, and there by night road to the Beacon at Staxton, and set it on fire, and so gathered together a rude rout. Then they went to Master Whites house, and took him, and Clopton his wives brother, Savage a merchant of York, and Berie servant to Sir Walter Mildmay, which four they murdered a mile from Semer, and there left them naked, their number increasing to three thousand. On the one and twenty day of August the kings pardon was offered, 
The Rebels refusing the Kings Pardon, were shortly after executed at York.  which Ombler and other refused: who were shortly after taken and brought to York, where Thomas Dale and other were executed the one and twenty of September.  
The seven and twenty day of januarie, Humphrey A, 
Captains of the Devonshiere rebels executed.  rundel Esquire, Thomas Holmes, Winslowe and Berie. Captains of the Rebels in Devonshire, were hanged and quartered at Tyburn.  
The tenth of February, one Bell a Suffolk man, was 
Bell a Suffolk Rebel executed. 1550.  hanged and quartered at Tyburn, for moving a new rebellion in Suffolk and Essex.  
Richard Lion, Goddard, Gorran, and Richard Ireland, 
Rebels of Kent executed. 1551.  were executed the fourteenth day of May, for attempting a new rebellion in Kent.   

In the reign of Queen Marie.  
WIlliam Constable alias Fetherstone, who caused Letters to be cast abroad, that King Edward was alive, 
A Miller's son feigning himself to be King Edward, executed. 1556.  and to some he had showed himself to be King Edward, was arraigned at the Guild Hall of London, having been once before whipped for the same behaviour, and delivered: but now he was condemned, and the thirteenth day of March he was drawn, hanged and quartered at Tyburn.  
One Clober, who sometime kept a School at Dys in 
Four Rebels executed at Saint Edmundsburie. 1557.  Norfolk, with three brethren whose names were Lincoln, made a conspiracy: and being driven to flight, one Master Shirman pursued, and took him at a Town called Eye in Suffolk, where he was kept in prison till the next Sessions at Saint Edmundsburie, whether his three mates being brought to him, they were altogether drawn, hanged and quartered.  
Queen Marie deceasing, Elizabeth, our most gracious and sovereign Lady, second Daughter to the noble and victorious Prince King Henry the eight, to the great comfort of England enjoyed her lawful, right and just title, being proclaimed Queen of England, France and Ireland, defender of the Faith, etc. Now ceased the time of grievous vexation both in soul and body, and the sweet comfort that every godly mind desired, did show itself shining in glory and majesty: the greater cause have we therefore to love and honour that gracious Lady, who brought with her such abundance of happiness, as neither tongue can worthily express it, nor any pen sufficiently set it down. Thanks be to God who preserved her Grace so wonderfully, in the time of many threatened troubles and dangers, which by his providence she happily escaped, to our no small joy and perfect consolation: which troublesome time of her Grace's suffering, I have hereto annexed, according as it is set down by that worthy man Master john Fox in his Acts and Monuments, the remembrance whereof, may whet us to be more dutiful unto her, than a number are, and rejoice in God for our deliverance by her admirable patience.   

¶ The miraculous preservation of Lady Elizabeth, now our most dread and gracious Queen of England, from extreme calamity and danger of life, in the time of Queen Marie her Sister.  
BUt when all hath been said and told, what 
The blessed protection of almighty God, in preserving the Lady Elizabeth, in her manifold dangers and troubles.  soever can be recited, touching the admirable working of God's present hand, in defending and delivering any one person out of thraldom; never was there since the memory of our Fathers, any example to be showed, wherein the Lords mighty power hath more admirably and blessedly shown itself, to the glory of his own name, to the comfort of all good hearts, and to the public felicity of this whole Realm, then in the miraculous custody and outscape of this our sovereign Lady, now Queen, than Lady Elizabeth, in the strait time of Queen Marie her Sister. In which story we have first to consider, in what extreme misery, sickness, fear and peril her Highness was: into what care, what trouble of mind, and what 
The troubles of Lady Elizabeth in Queen Maries tyme.  danger of death she was brought. First with great routs & bands of Armed men (and happy was he that might have the carrying of her) being fetched up as the greatest traitor in the world, clapped in the Tower, and again tossed from thence, from house to house, from prison to prison, from post to pillar, at length also prisoner in her own house, and guarded with a sort of cutthroates, which ever gaped for the spoil, whereby they might be fingering on somewhat.  
secondly to consider again we have, all this notwithstanding, how strangely, or rather miraculously from danger she was delivered: what favour and grace she found with the Almighty, who when all help of man and hope of recovery was past, stretched out his mighty protection, and preserved her Highness, and placed her in this Princely seat of rest and quietness, wherein now she sitteth, and long may she sit, the Lord of his glorious mercy grant we beseech him. In which story, if I should set forth at large and at full, all the particulars and circumstances thereunto belonging, and as just occasion of the history requireth, besides the importunate length of the story discoursed: peradventure it might move offence to some being yet alive, and truth might get me hatred. Yet notwithstanding, I intent (by the grace of Christ) therein to use such brevity and moderation, as both may be to the glory of God, the discharge of the story, the profit of the Reader, and hurt to none, suppressing the names of some, whom here although I could receit, yet I thought not to be more cruel in hurting their name, than the Queen hath been merciful in pardoning their lives.  
Therefore now to enter into the discourse of this tragical matter, first here is to be noted, that Queen Marie 
The history of Lady Elizabeth.  when she was first Queen, before she was crowned, would go no whether, but would have her by the hand, and send for her to dinner and supper: but after she was crowned, she never dined nor supped with her, but kept her aloof from her, etc. After this it happened, immediately upon the rising of Sir Thomas Wyatt, that the Lady Elizabeth and the Lord Courtney, were charged with false suspicion of Sir Thomas Wiat's rising. Whereupon Queen Marie, whether for that surmise, or for what other cause I know not, being offended with the Lady Elizabeth her Sister, at that time lying in her house at Ashridge, the next day after the rising of Wyatt, sent to her three of her counsellors, to wit, Sir Richard Southwell, Sir Edward Hastings, than Master of the Horse, and Sir Thomas Cornwall's, 
Sir Richard Southwell. Sir Edward hastings, and Sir Thomas Cornwalles sent to fetch up Lady Elizabeth.  with their retinue and troop of Horsemen, to the number of two hundred and fifty. Who at their sudden and unprovided coming, found her at the same time sore sick in her bed, and very weak & feeble of body. Whether when they came, ascending up to her Grace's privy Chamber, they willed one of her Ladies, whom they met, to declare unto her Grace, that there were certain come from the Court, which had a message from the Queen. Her Grace having knowledge thereof, was right glad of their coming: howbeit being then very sick, and the night far spent (which was at ten of the clock) she requested them by the messenger, that they would resort thither in the morning. To this they answered, and by the same messenger sent word again, that they must needs see her, & would so do, in what case so ever she were. Whereat the 
The unmannerliness of the Knights.  Lady being aghast, went to show her Grace their words: but they hastily following her, came rushing as soon as she into her Grace's chamber, unbidden. At whose so sudden coming into her chamber, her Grace being not a little amazed, said unto them: Is the haste such, that it might not have pleased you to come to morrow in the morning? They made answer, that they were right sorry to see her in that case. And I (quoth she) am not glad to see you here at this time of the night. Whereunto they answered, that they came from the Queen to do their message & duty: which was to this effect, that the queens pleasure was, that she should be at London the seventh day of that present month. Whereunto she said: Certes, no creature more glad than I to come to her Majesty, being right sorry that I am not in case at this time to wait on her, as you yourselves do see, and can well testify. In deed we see it true (quoth they) that you do say, for which we are very sorry. Albeit we let 
A strait Commission from the Queen, to bring the Lady Elizabeth either quick or dead.  you understand, that our Commission is such, and so straineth us, that we must needs bring you with us, either quick or dead. Whereat she being amazed, sorrowfully said, that their Commission was very sore: but yet notwithstanding she hoped it to be otherwise, & not so strait. Yes verily said they. Whereupon they called for two Physicians, Doctor Owen and Doctor Wendie, and demanded of them, whether she might be removed from thence with life, or no. Whose answer and judgement was, that there was no impediment to their judgement, to the contrary, but that she might travail without danger of life. In conclusion, they willed her to prepare against the morning, 
The gentleness of Queen Marie to send her horse Litter to bring her Sister to trouble.  at nine of the clock to go with them, declaring that they had brought with them the queens Litter for her. After much talk, the messengers declaring how there was no prolonging of times and days, so departed to their Chamber, being entertained and cheered as appertained to their worships. On the next morrow at the time prescribed, they had her forth as she was, very faint and feeble, and in such case, that she was ready to swoon three or four times between them. What should I speak here that cannot well be expressed? What an heavy house there was, to behold the unreverent and doleful dealing of these men, but especially the careful fear and captivity of their innocent Lady and Mistress.  
Now to proceed in her journey from Ashridge, all sick in a Litter, she came to Redborne, where she was guarded 
Lady Elizabeth taketh her journey toward the Queen.  all night. From thence to S. Alban's, to Sir Ralphe Rowlets house, where she tarried that night, both feeble in body, and comfortless in mind. From that place they passed to Master Doddes' house at Mymmes, where also they remained that night: and so from thence she came to Highgate, where she being very sick, tarried that night and the next day. During which time of her abode there, came many Pursuivants & Messengers from the Court: but for what purpose I cannot tell. From that place she was conveyed to the Court, where by the way came to meet her many Gentlemen, to accompany her Highness, which were very sorry to see her in that case: but especially a great multitude 
Lady Elizabeth brought up to London.  of people there were standing by the way, who then flocking about her Litter, lamented and bewailed greatly her estate. Now when she came to the Court, her Grace was there strait ways shut up, and kept as close prisoner a fortnight, which was till Palm Sunday, seeing neither King nor Queen, nor Lord nor friend all that time, but only than the Lord Chamberlain, Sir john Gage, & the Uicechamberlaine, who were attendant unto the doors. About which time Sir William Sentlowe was called before the Council, to whose charge was laid, that he knew of Wiat's rebellion. Which he stoutly denied, protesting 
Sir William Sentlowe committed to the Tower.  that he was a true man both to God and his Prince, defying all Traitors and Rebels: but being straightly examined, he was in conclusion committed to the Tower.  
The Friday before Palm Sunday, the Bishop of Winchester, with nineteen other of the Council, who shall be here nameless, came unto her Grace from the queens 
Lady Elizabeth charged with Sir Thomas Wiat's conspiracy.  Majesty, and burdened her with Wiat's conspiracy: which she utterly denied, affirming that she was altogether guiltless therein. They being not contented with this, 
Lady Elizabeth charged with the business of Sir Peter Carew.  charged her Grace with business made by Sir Peter Carew, and the rest of the Gentlemen of the West country: which she also utterly denying, cleared her innocency therein. In conclusion, after long debating of matters, they declared unto her, that was the queens will and pleasure 
Lady Elizabeth threatened to go to the Tower,  that she should go unto the Tower, while the matter were further tried and examined. Whereat she being aghast, said. That she trusted the queens Majesty would be more gracious Lady unto her, and that her Highness would not otherwise conceive of her, but that she was a true woman: declaring furthermore to the Lords, that she was innocent 
Lady Elizabeth purgeth herself to the Lords.  in all those matters wherewith they had burdened her, and desired them therefore to be a further mean to the Queen her Sister, that she being a true woman in thought, word and deed towards her Majesty, might not be committed to so notorious & doleful a place, protesting that she would request no mercy at her hand, if she should be proved to have consented unto any such kind of matter, as they had laid unto her charge. And therefore in fine, desired their Lordships to think of her what she was, and that she might not so extremely be dealt withal for her truth. Whereunto the Lords answered again, that there was no remedy, for that the queens Majesty was fully determined, that she should go unto the Tower: wherewith the Lords departed with their caps hanging over their eyes. But not long after, within the space of an hour or more, came four of the foresaid Lords of the Council, which were the Lord Treasurer, the Bishop of Winchester, the Lord Steward, & the Earl of Sussex, with the Guard, who warding the next Chamber to her, secluded all her Gentlemen and Yeomen, Ladies and Gentlewomen: saving 
Lady Elizabeth's servants removed from her.  that for one Gentlemen Usher, three Gentlewomen, and two Grooms of her Chamber, were appointed three other men of the Queens, and three waiting Women, to 
The Queen's men and women attendant upon the Lady Elizabeth.  give attendance upon her, that none should have access to her Grace. At which time, there was an hundred of Northern Soldiers in white coats, watching and warding about the Gardens all that night, a great fire being made in the midst of the Hall, and two certain Lords watching there also, with their band and company.  
Upon Saturday following, two Lords of the Counsel, (the one was the Earl of Sussex, the other shallbe nameless) came and certified her Grace, that forthwith she must go unto the Tower, the Barge being prepared for her, and the tide now ready, which tarrieth for no body. In heavy mood her Grace requested the Lords, that she might tarry one other tide, trusting that the next would be better and more comfortable: but one of the Lords replied, that neither tide nor time was to be delayed. And when her Grace requested him, that she might be suffered to write to the queens Majesty: he answered that he durst 
The hard dealing of a certain Lord with the Lady Elizabeth.  not permit that, adding, that in his judgement, it would rather hurt then profit her Grace in so doing. But the other Lord more courteous and favourable (who was the 
The Earl of Sussex gentle to the Lady Elizabeth.  Earl of Sussex) kneeling down, told her Grace that she should have liberty to write, and as he was a true man he would deliver it to the queens Highness, and bring an answer of the same, whatsoever came thereof. Whereupon she wrote: albeit she could in no case be suffered to 
Lady Elizabeth writeth to the Queen, but it would not serve.  speak with the Queen, to her great discomfort, being no offender against the queens Majesty. And thus the time and tide passed away for that season, they privily appointing all things ready, that she should go the next tide, which fell about midnight: but for fear she should be taken by the way, they durst not. So they stayed till the next day, being Palm Sunday, when about nine of the clock these two returned again, declaring that it was time for her Grace to departed: She answering, if there be no remedy, I must be content, willing the Lords to go on before. Being come forth into the garden, she did cast up her eyes toward the window, thinking to have seen the Queen, which she could not. Whereat she said: She marveled much what the Nobility of the Realm meant, which in that sort would suffer her to be led into captivity, the Lord knew whether, for she did not? In the mean time commandment was given in all London, that every one should keep the Church, and carry their Palms, while (in the mean season) she might be conveyed without all recourse of people into the Tower. After all this, she took her Barge with the foresaid Lords, three of the queens 
Lady Elizabeth sent to the Tower.  Gentlewomen, and three of her own, her Gentleman Usher, and two of her Grooms, lying and hovering upon the water a certain space, for that they could not shoot the Bridge, the Barge men being very unwilling to shoot the same so soon as they did, because of the danger thereof: for the stern of the Barge struck upon the ground, the fall was so big, and the water was so shallow, that the Barge being under the bridge, there stayed again a while. At landing, she first stayed, & denied to land at those stairs, where all traitors and offenders customably use to land, neither well could she, unless she would go over her shoes. The Lords were gone out of the Barge before, and asked why she came not? One of the Lords went back again to her, and brought word she would not come. Then said one of the Lords, which shallbe nameless, that she should not choose, and because it reigned, he offered to her his cloak, which she (putting it back with her hand with a good dash) refused. So she coming out, having one foot upon the stair, said: Here landeth as true a Subject (being prisoner) as ever landed at these stairs, and before thee 
The words of Lady Elizabeth entering the Tower.  O God I speak it, having no other friends but thee alone. To whom the same Lord answered again, that if it were so, it was the better for her. At her landing, there was a great multitude of their servants and Warders standing in their order. What needed all this (said she.) It is the use (said some) so to be, when any prisoner came thither. And if it be for my cause (said she) I beseech you that they may be dismissed. Whereat the poor men kneeled down, and with one voice desired GOD to preserve her Grace: but the next day they were (therefore) released of their old coats. After this, passing a little further, she sat down upon a cold stone, and there rested herself. To whom the Lieutenant then being, said: Madam, you were best to come out of the rain, for you sit unholsomely. She then replying, answered again: Better sitting here then in a worse place, for God knoweth, I know not whether you will bring me. With that her gentleman Usher wept, she demanding of him what he meant, to use her so uncomfortably, seeing she took him to be her comforter, and not to dismay her, especially for that she knew her truth to be such, that no man should have cause to weep for her: but forth she went into the prison. The doors were locked and bolted upon her, which did not a little discomfort and dismay her Grace, at what time she called to her gentlewoman for her Book. Desiring God not to suffer 
The christian prayer of Lady Elizabeth.  her to build her foundation upon the sands, but upon the rock, whereby all blasts of blustering weather should have no power against her. The doors being thus locked, and she close shut up, the Lords had great conference how to keep ward and watch, every man declaring his opinion in that behalf, agreeing straitly and circumspectly to keep her. Then one of them, which was the Lord of 
The Lord of Sussex speaketh for Lady Elizabeth.  Sussex, swearing, said: My Lords let us take heed, and do no more than our Commission will bear us, whatsoever shall happen hereafter. And further, let us consider that she was the King our masters Daughter, and therefore let us use such dealing, that we may answer unto it hereafter, if it shall so happen, for just dealing (quoth he) is always answerable. Whereunto the other Lords agreed that it was well said of him, and thereupon departed. Being in the Tower, within two days commandment was, that she should have Mass within her house: one Master Young was then her Chaplain, and because there was none of her men so well learned, to help the Priest to say Mass, the Mass stayed for that day. The next day two of her Yeomen, who had gone long to school before, and were learned, had two Abcies provided and delivered them, so that upon the Abcies they should help the Priest. One of the said Yeomen, holding the Abcie in his hand, pretending ignorance at Kirieleyson, set the Priest, making as though he could answer no further.  
It would make a pitiful and a strange story, here by the way to touch and recite, what examinations and rackings of poor men there were, to find out that knife that should cut her throat: what gaping among my Lords of the Clergy, to see the day when they might wash their goodly white Rochets in her innocent blood. But especially the Bishop of Winchester Stephen Gardiner, than Lord Chancellor, 
The Bishop of Winchester enemy to Lady Elizabeth.  ruler of the roast, who then within few days after came unto her, with divers other of the Council, and examined her of the talk that was at Ashridge, betwixt her and Sir james Acroft, concerning her removing from thence to Dunnington castle, requiring her to declare what she meant thereby? At the first, she being so suddenly asked, did not well remember any such house: but within a while, well advising herself, she said. In deed (quoth she) I do now remember that I have such a Place, but I never lay in it in all my life: and as for any that hath moved me thereunto, I do not remember. Then to enforce 
Lady Elizabeth examined by the Bishop of Winchester.  the matter, they brought forth Sir james Acroft: the Bishop of Winchester demanded of her, what she said to that man? She answered, that she had little to say to him, or to the rest that were then prisoners in the Tower. But my Lords (quoth she) you do examine every mean prisoner of me, wherein me thinks you do me great injury. If they have done evil, & offended the queens Majesty, let them answer to it accordingly: I beseech you my Lords, join not me in this sort with any of these offenders. And as concerning my going to Dunnington castle, I do remember that Master Hobby and mine Officers, and you Sir james Acroft had such talk: but what is that to she purpose (my Lords) but that I may go to mine own houses at all times? The Lord of Arundel kneeling down, 
The friendly speech of the Earl of Arundel to Lady Elizabeth.  said: Your Grace saith true, and certainly we are very sorry, that we have so troubled you about so vain matters. She than said: My Lords, you do sift me very narrowly, but well I am assured, you shall do no more to me then God hath appointed, and so God forgive you all. At their departure, Sir james Acroft kneeled down, declaring that he was very sorry to see the day, in which he should be brought as a witness against her Grace. But I assure your Grace (said he) I have been marvelously tossed and 
Sir james Acroft examined touching the Lady Elizabeth.  examined touching your Highness, which the Lord knoweth is very strange to me. For I take God to record before all your Honours, I do not know any thing of that crime that you have laid to my charge, and will thereupon take my death, if I should be driven to so strait a trial.  
That day or there about, divers of her own Officers, 
These were not the Officers of the Tower, but such as went in white & green.  who had made provision for her diet, brought the same to the utter gate of the Tower, the common rasall soldiers receiving it: which was no small grief to the gentlemen, the bringers thereof, wherefore they required to speak with the Lord Chamberlain, being then Constable of the Tower. Who, coming before his presence, declared unto his Lordship, that they were much afraid to bring her Grace's diet, and deliver it to such common & desperate persons, as they were which did receive it: beseeching his Honour to consider her Grace, and to give such order, that her viands might at all times be brought in by them, which were appointed thereunto. Yea Sirs (said he) who appointed you this office? They answered, her Grace's Council. Council (quoth he?) There is none of them which hath to do, 
Lady Elizabeth's servants restrained from bringing her diet to the Tower.  either in that case, or any else within this place: and I assure you, for that she is a prisoner, she shallbe served with the lieutenants men, as other prisoners are. Whereat the gentlemen said, that they trusted for more favour at his hands, considering her parsonage, saying: that they mistrusted 
Displeasure between the Lord Chamberlain. and the Lady Elizabeth's men.  not, but that the Queen & her Council would be better to her Grace then so, and therewith showed themselves to be offended, at the ungrateful words of the Lord Chamberlain, towards their Lady and Mistress. At this he swore by God, striking himself upon the breast, that if they did either frown or shrug at him, he would set them where they should see neither Sun nor Moon. Thus taking their leave, they desired God to bring him into a better mind towards her Grace, and departed from him. Upon occasion whereof, her Grace's Officers made great suit unto the Queen's Council, that some might be appointed to bring her diet unto her, and that it might no more be delivered unto the common soldiers of the Tower. Which being reasonably considered, was by them granted, and thereupon were appointed one of her Gentlemen her Clerk of her Kitchen, and her two purveyors to bring in her provision once a day: all which was done, the warders ever waiting upon the bringers thereof. The Lord Chamberlain himself being always with them, circumspectly and narrowly watched and searched what they brought, & gave heed that they should have no talk with any of her Graces waiting servants, and so warded them both in and out. At the said suit of her Officers, were sent by the commandment of the Council, to wait upon her Grace, two Yeomen of her Chamber, one of her 
Lady Elizabeth's waiting men in the Tower.  Robes, two of her pantry and Ewrie, one of her Buttery, an other of her Seller, two of her Kitchen, and one of her Larder, all which continued with her the time of her trouble.  
Hear the Constable, being at the first not very well pleased, with the coming in of such a company against his will, would have had his men to have served still with her Grace's men: which her servants at no hand would suffer, desiring his Lordship to be contented, for that order was taken, that no stranger should come within their Offices. At which answer being sore displeased, he broke out into these threatening words: Well (said he) I will handle ye well enough. Then went he into the Kitchen, and there would needs have his meat roasted with her Grace's meat, 
Variance between the Lord Chamberlain & Lady Elizabeth's servants.  and said that his Cook should come thither and dress it. To that her Grace's Cook answered: My Lord, I will never suffer any stranger to come about her diet, but her own sworn men so long as I live. He said, they should: But the Cook said, his Lordship should pardon him for that matter. Thus did he trouble her poor servants very stoutly: though afterwards he were otherwise advised, & they more courteously used at his hands. And good cause why, for he had good cheer, & fared of the best, & her Grace paid well for it: wherefore he used himself afterward more reverently toward her Grace. After this sort, having been a whole month there in close prison, and being very evil at ease therewithal: she sent for the Lord Chamberlain and the Lord Shandoyes, to come & speak with her. Who coming, she requested of them, that she might have liberty to walk in some place, for that she felt herself not well. To the which they answered, that they were right sorry that they could not satisfy her Grace's request, for that 
Lady Elizabeth denied the liberty of the Tower.  they had commandment to the contrary, which they durst not in any wise break. Furthermore, she desired of them, if that could not be granted, that she might walk but into the queens lodging. No nor yet that (they answered) could by any means be obtained, without a further suit to the Queen and her Council. Well (said she) my Lords, if the matter be so hard, that they must be sued unto for so small a thing, and that friendship be so strait: God comfort me, and so they departed, she remaining in her old dungeon still, without any kind of comfort, but only God.  
The next day after, the Lord Shandoyes came again unto her Grace, declaring unto her that he had sued unto the Council for further liberty. Some of them consented thereunto, divers other dissented, for that there were so many prisoners in the Tower. But in conclusion, they did all agree, that her Grace might walk into those lodgings, so that he & the Lord Chamberlain, and three of the queens gentlewomen did accompany her, the windows being shut, and she not suffered to look out at any of them: wherewith she contented herself, and gave him thanks for his good will in that behalf. Afterwards there was 
Liberty granted to Lady Elizabeth to walk in a garden.  liberty granted to her Grace to walk in a little garden, the doors and gates being shut up: which notwithstanding was as much discomfort unto her, as the walk in the garden was pleasant and acceptable. At which times of her walking there, the prisoners on that side were straightly commanded, not to speak or look out at the windows into the garden, till her Grace were gone out again, having (in consideration thereof) their keepers waiting upon them for that time. Thus her Grace with this small liberty contented herself in God, to whom be praise therefore.  
During this time, there used a little boy, a man's child in the Tower, to resort to their chambers, and many times to bring her Grace flowers, which likewise he did to the other prisoners that were there. Whereupon naughty and suspicious heads, thinking to make & wring out some 
Suspicious heads.  matter thereof, called on a time the child unto them, promising him Figs and Apples, and ask of him when he had been with the Earl of Devonshire, not ignorant of the childes wunted frequenting unto him. The boy answered, that he would go by and by thither. Further, 
A young child examined for bringing flowers to Lady Elizabeth.  they demanded of him, when he was with the Lady Elizabethes Grace. He answered: every day. Furthermore they demanded of him, What the Lord of Devonshire sent by him to her Grace. The child said, I will go know what he will give me to carry to her. Such was the discretion of the child, being yet but four years of age. This same is a crafty boy (quoth the Lord Chamberlain) How say you my Lord Shandoyes? I pray you my Lord (quoth the boy) give me the Figs you promised me. No marry (quoth he) thou shalt be wipped, if thou come any more to the Lady Elizabeth, or to the Lord Courtney. The boy answered: I will bring my Lady my Mistress more flowers. Whereupon the child's father was commanded, to permit the boy no more to come up into their chambers. The next day as her Grace was walking in the garden, the child peeping in at a little hole in the door, cried unto her, saying: Mistress, I can bring you no more flowers. Whereat she smiled, but said nothing, understanding thereby what they had done. Wherefore, afterwards the L. Chamberlain rebuked highly his Father, commanding him to put him out of the house. Alas poor infant, (quoth the Father.) It is a crafty knave (quoth the Lord Chamberlain:) but let me see him here no more.  
The fift day of May, the Constable was discharged of 
The Constable of the Tower discharged of his Office, and Sir Henry Benifield with his company placed about the Lady Elizabeth.  his Office of the Tower, and one Sir Henry Benifield placed in his room, a man unknown to her Grace, and therefore the more feared: which so sudden mutation was unto her no little amaze. He brought with him an hundred Soldiers in blue coats, wherewith she was marvelously discomforted, and demanded of such as were about her, whether the Lady Jane's Scaffold were taken away or 
Lady Elizabeth both in great fear and doubt of her life.  no, fearing by reason of their coming, lest she should have played her part. To whom answer was made, that the Scaffold was taken away, and that her Grace needed not to doubt of any such tyranny: for God would not suffer any such treason against her person. Wherewith being contented, but not altogether satisfied, she asked what Sir Henry Benifield was? And whether he were of the 
Lady Elizabeth in doubt of Sir Henry Benifield.  conscience or no, that if her murdering were secretly committed to his charge, he would see the execution thereof. She was answered, that they were ignorant what manner of man he was: howbeit they persuaded her, that God would not suffer such wickedness to proceed. Well (quoth she) God grant it be so: for thou O God canst mollify all 
Lady Elizabeth's prayer.  such tyrannous hearts, and disappoint all such cruel purposes. And I beseech thee to hear me thy creature, which am thy servant and at thy commandment, trusting by thy grace ever so to remain. About which time it was spread abroad, that her Grace should be carried from thence, by this new jolly Captain and his Soldiers, but whether, it could not be learned: which was unto her a great grief, especially for that such a company was appointed to her guard, requesting rather to continue there still, then to be led thence with such a sort of rascals. At last plain answer was made by the Lord Shandoyes, that there was no remedy, but from thence she must needs departed to the Manor of Woodstock, as he thought. Being demanded of her, for what cause: for that (quoth he) the Tower is like further to be furnished. She being desirous to know what he meant thereby, demanded, wherewith: with such matter as the Queen and the Council were determined in that behalf, whereof he had no knowledge, and so departed. In conclusion, on Trinity Sunday, being the nineteen day of May, she was removed from the Tower, the Lord Treasurer being then there for the lading of her Cartes, and discharging the place of the same: where Sir Henry Benifield (being appointed her Gaoler) did receive her with a company of rakehells to guard her, beside the Lord of darby's band, wafting in the Country about for the Moonshine in the water. Unto 
Lady Elizabeth removeth from the Tower to Woodstock.  whom at length came my Lord of Tame, joined in Commission with the said Sir Henry, for the safe guiding of her to prison: and they together conveyed her Grace to Woodstock, as hereafter followeth.  
The first day they conducted her to Richmond, where she 
Lady Elizabeth secluded from her servants.  continued all night, being restrained of her own men, which were lodged in out Chambers, and Sir Henry Benifieldes Soldiers appointed in their rooms, to give attendance on her person. Whereat she being marvelously dismayed, thinking verily some secret mischief to 
Lady Elizabeth in despair of herself.  be working towards her: called her Gentleman Usher, and desired him with the rest of his company, to pray for her, for this night (quoth she) I think to die. Wherewith he being stricken to the heart, said: God forbidden that any such wickedness should be pretended against your Grace. So comforting her as well as he could, at last he burst into tears, & went from her down into the Court, where were walking the Lord of Tame and Sir Henry Benefield. Then he coming to the Lord of Tame (who had proffered to him much friendship) desired to speak with him a word or two: unto whom he familiarly said, he should with all his heart. Which when Sir Henry (standing by) heard, he asked what the matter was? To whom the Gentleman Usher answered: No great matter Sir (said he) but to speak with my Lord a word or two. Then when the Lord of Tame came to him, he spoke on this wise. My Lord (quoth he) you have been always my good Lord, and so I 
Lady Elizabeth's Usher talketh with the Lord of Tame.  beseech you to remain. The cause why I come to you at this time, is to desire your Honour, friendly to declare to me, whether any danger is meant to my Mistress this night, or no, that I and my poor fellows may take such part as shall please God to appoint: for certainly we will rather die, than she should secretly and innocently miscarry. Marry (said the Lord of Tame) God forbid that any 
The gentle heart of the Lord of Tame to Lady Elizabeth.  such wicked purpose should be wrought: and rather than it should be so, I with my men are ready to die at her foot also. And so (praised be God) they passed that doleful night with no little heaviness of heart.  
Afterward, passing over the water at Richmond, going towards Windsor, her Grace espied certain of her poor servants standing on the other side, which were very desirous to see her. Whom when she beheld, turning to one of her men standing by, she said: Yonder I see certain of my men, go to them, and say these words from me: Tanquam ovis. So she passing forward to Windsor, was lodged 
Tanquam ovis. Like a sheep to to the slaughter.  there that night in the Dean of Windsores house: a place in deed more meet for a Priest then a Princess. And from thence her Grace was guarded and brought the next night to Master Dormers house, where much people standing 
Lady Elizabeth honourably received, and beloved of the people  by the way, some presented to her one gift, and some an other, so that Sir Henry was greatly moved therewith, and troubled the poor people very sore, for showing their loving hearts in such a manner, calling them Rebels and Traitors, with such like vile words. Beside, as he passed through the villages, the Townsemen rang the Bells, as being joyful of her coming, thinking verily it had been otherwise then it was in deed, as the sequel proved after to the said poor men. For immediately the said Sir Henry hearing the same, sent his Soldiers thither, who apprehended some of the Ringers, setting them in the stocks, and otherwise uncourteously misusing othersome for their good wills. On the next morrow her Grace passing from 
The gentle entertainment of Lady Elizabeth, at the Lord of Tames house.  Master Dormers (where for the time of her abode there, was a strait watch kept) came to the Lord of Tames house, where she lay all that night, being very Princely entertained, both of Knights and Ladies, gentlemen and gentlewomen. Whereat Sir Henry Benifield grunted, and was highly offended, saying unto them: That they 
Sir Henry Benifield grudged at the gentle entertainment of Lady Elizabeth. The rude and ungentle behaviour of Sir Henry Benifield.  could not tell what they did, and were not able to answer their doings in that behalf. Letting them to understand, that she was the queens majesties prisoner, and no otherwise: advising them therefore to take heed, and beware of afterclappes. Whereunto the Lord of Tame answered on this wise: That he was well advised of his doings, being joined in Commission as well as he, adding with warrant, that her Grace might & should in his house be merry. The next day, as she should take her journey from Kichmond toward Woodstock, the Lord of Tame with an other Gentleman being at the Tables, playing and dropping vie Crowns, the Lady Elizabeth passing by, stayed and said, she would see the game played out, which Sir Henry Benifield would scarce permit. The game running long about, and they playing drop vie Crowns: Come on (saith he.) I will tarry (saith she) and will see this game out. After this Sir Henry went up into a Chamber, where was appointed for her Grace a Chair, two Cushions, and a foot Carpet, very fair and Princelike: wherein presumptuously he sat, and called one Berwick his man to pull off his Boots. Which as soon as it was known among the Ladies and Gentles, every one mused thereat, and laughed him to scorn, observing his undiscrete manners in that behalf, as they might very well. When Supper was done, he called my Lord, & willed him that all the Ladies and gentlemen should withdraw themselves every one to his lodging: marveling much that he would permit there such a company, considering so great a charge committed to him. Sir Henry (quoth my Lord) content yourself, all shall be voided, your men and all. Nay, my Soldiers (quoth Sir Henry) shall watch all night. The Lord of Tame answered: it shall not need. Well (said he) need or need not, they shall so do: mistrusting belike the company, which God knoweth was without cause.  
The next day her Grace took her journey from thence 
Lady Elizabeth, cometh to Woodstock.  to Woodstock, where she was enclosed, as before in the Tower of London: the Soldiers guarding and warding both within and without the walls, every day to the number of three score, and in the night without the walls forty, during the time of her imprisonment there. At length, 
The straight watch kept at Woodstock.  she had gardens appointed for her to walk in, which was very comfortable to her Grace: but always when she did recreate herself therein, the doors were fast locked up, and in as strait manner as they were in the Tower, being at least five or six locks between her lodging and her walks, Sir Henry himself keeping the keys, and trusting no man therewith. Whereupon she called him her Gaoler: and he kneeling down, desired her Grace not to call him so, for he was appointed there to be one of her Officers. From such Officers (quoth she) good Lord deliver me.  
And now by the way as digressing, or rather refreshing the Reader, if it be lawful in so serious a story to recite a 
A merry story concerning the strait keeping of the Lady Elizabeth.  matter incident, and yet not impertinent to the same, occasion here moveth, or rather enforceth me, to touch briefly what happened in the same place and time by a merry conceited man, being then about her Grace. Who noting the strait and strange keeping of his Lady & Mistress by the said Sir Henry Benifield, with so many locks & doors, with such watch and ward about her, as was strange and wonderful: espied a Goat in the ward where her Grace was, and whether to refresh her oppressed mind, or to notify her strait handling by Sir Henry, either else both, he took it upon his neck, and followed her Grace therewith, as she was going into her lodging. Which when she saw, she asked him what he would do with it, willing to let it alone. Unto whom the same party answered: No by saint Marie (if it like your Grace) will I not, for I cannot tell whether he be one of the queens friends or no, I will carry him to Sir Henry Benifield (God willing) to know what he is. So leaving her Grace, he went with the Goat on his neck, and carried it to Sir Henry Benifield: who when he saw him coming with it, asked him half angerly what he had there? Unto whom the party 
The straightness of Sir Henry Benifield merrily noted.  answered, saying: Sir (quoth he) I cannot tell what he is, I pray you examine him, for I found him in the place where my Lady's Grace was walking, & what talk they have had I cannot tell, for I understand him not, but he should seem to me to be some stranger, and I think verily a Welsh man, for he hath a white freeze coat on his back. And for so much as I being the queens subject, and perceiving the strait charge committed to you of her keeping, that no stranger should have access unto her without sufficient licence: I have here found a stranger (what he is I cannot tell) in place where her Grace was walking, and therefore for the necessary discharge of my duty, I thought it good to bring the said stranger to you, to examine as you see cause: and so he let him down. At which words Sir Henry seemed much displeased, and said: Well, well, you will never leave this gear I see, and so they departed.  
Now to return to the matter from whence we have digressed, 
Lady Elizabeth, with much ado, suffered to write to the Queen.  after her Grace had been there a time, she made suit to the Council, that she might be suffered to write to the Queen: which at last was permitted. So that Sir Henry brought her pen, ink and paper, and standing by her while she wrote (which he straitly observed) always she being weary, he would carry away her Letters, and bring them again when she called for them. In the finishing thereof, he would have been messenger to the Queen of the same, whose request her Grace denied, saying: One of her own men should carry them, and that she would neither trust him, nor none of his therein. Then he answering again, said: None of them durst be so bold (he trowed) to carry her Letters, being in that case. Yes (quoth she) I am assured I have none so dishonest, that would deny my request in that behalf, but will be as willing to serve me now, as before. Well (said he) my Commission 
The cruel dealing of Sir Henry Benifield to the Lady Elizabeth, reproved.  is to the contrary, and I may not so suffer it. Her Grace replying again, said: You charge me very often with your Commission, I pray God you may justly answer the cruel dealing you use towards me. Then he kneeling down, desired her Grace to think and consider, how he was a servant, and put in trust by the Queen to serve her Majesty: protesting that if the case were hers, he would as willingly serve her Grace, as now he did the queens highness. For the which his answer, her Grace thanked him, desiring of God, that she might never have need of such servants as he was: declaring further to him, that his doings towards her were not good nor answerable, but more than all the friends he had would stand by. To whom Sir Henry replied and said: That there was no remedy but his doings must be answered, and so they should, trusting to make good account thereof. The cause which moved her Grace so to say, was, for that he would not permit her Letters to be carried four or five days after the writing thereof. But in fine, he was content 
The Letters of Lady Elizabeth carried to the Queen.  to send for her gentleman from the Town of Woodstock, demanding of him, whether he durst enterprise the carriage of her Grace's Letters to the Queen, or no: and he answered, yea Sir that I dare, and will with all my hart. Whereupon Sir Henry (half against his stomach) took them unto him. Then about the eight day of june, came down Doctor Owen and Doctor Wendie, sent by the 
Doctor Owen & Doctor Wendie, Queen Mary's Physicians sent to Lady Elizabeth.  Queen to her Grace, for that she was sickly: who ministering to her, and letting her blood, tarried there and attended on her Grace five or six days. Then she being well amended, they returned again to the Court, making their good report to the Queen and the Council, of her Grace's behaviour and humbleness towards the queens Highness. Which her Majesty hearing, took very thankfully: but the Bishops thereat repined, looked black in the 
The popish Prelates repined against the Lady Elizabeth.  mouth, and told the Queen, they marveled that she submitted not herself to her majesties mercy, considering that she had offended her Highness. About this time, her Grace was requested by a secret friend, to submit herself 
Lady Elizabeth requested to submit herself to the Queen.  to the queens Majesty, which would be very well taken, and to her Grace great quiet and commodity: unto whom she answered: That she would never submit herself to them whom she never offended. For (quoth she) if I have offended and am guilty, I then crave no mercy but the law: which I am certain (quoth she) I should have had ere this, if it could be proved by me. For I know myself (I thank God) to be out of the danger thereof, wishing that I were as clear out of the peril of mine enemies: and then I am assured, I should not be so locked and bolted up within walls & doors, as I am, God give them a better mind when it pleaseth him.  
About this time, was there a great consulting among 
Council of the Papists, to marry the Lady Elizabeth to a Spaniard.  the Bishops and gentlemen, touching a marriage for her Grace, which some of the Spaniards wished to be with some Stranger, that she might go out of the Realm with her portion: some saying one thing, and some an other. A Lord (who shall be here nameless) being there, at last 
Wicked council given against Lady Elizabeth.  said: That the King should never have any quiet Common wealth in England, unless her head were stricken from her shoulders. Whereunto the Spaniards answered, saying: God forbidden that the King their Master should have that mind, to consent to such a mischief. This was the courteous answer of the Spaniards to the English 
Spaniards more favourable to Lady Elizabeth, than some English men.  men, speaking after that sort against their own Country. From that day the Spaniards never left off their good persuasions to the King, that the like honour he should never obtain, as he should in delivering Lady elizabeth's Grace out of prison: whereby at length she was happily released from the same. Here is a plain and evident example, of the good clemency and nature of the King and his counsellors towards her Grace, praised be God therefore, who moved their hearts therein. Then hereupon, she was sent for shortly after, to come to Hampton Court.  
But before her removing from Woodstock, we will a little stay, to declare in what dangers her life was, during this time she there remained. First thorough fire, which began to kindle between the boards and ceiling, under the 
Lady Elizabeth, in danger of fire.  Chamber where she lay: whether by a spark of fire gotten into a crevice, or whether of purpose by some that meant her no good, the Lord doth know. Nevertheless, a worshipful Knight of Oxfordshire, which was there joined the same time with Sir Henry Benifield, in keeping that Lady (who then took up the boards and quenched the fire) verily supposed it to be done of purpose. Furthermore it is thought, and also affirmed (if it be true) of one Paul Peny a keeper of Woodstock, a notorious 
Lady Elizabeth, in danger of killing.  Ruffian, and a butcherly wretch, that was appointed to kill the Lady Elizabeth: who both saw the man, being often in her sight, and also knew thereof. another time one of the privy Chamber, a great man about the Queen, 
another conspiracy of murder against Lady Elizabeth.  and chief darling of Stephen Gardiner, named Master james Basset, came to Blandenbridge a mile from UUoodstocke, with twenty or thirty privy coats, and sent for Sir Henry Benifield to come and speak with him. But as God would, who disposed all things after the purpose of his own will, so it happened, that a little before, the said Sir Henry Benifield was sent for by a Post to the Council, leaving strait word behind him with his brother, that no man whatsoever he were, though coming with a Bill of the queens hand, or any other warrant, should have access to her before his return again. By reason whereof so it fell out, that Sir Henry Benifieldes brother coming to him at the Bridge, would suffer him in no case to approach in: who otherwise (as it is supposed) was appointed violently to murder the innocent Lady.  
At what time likewise that the Lady Elizabeth was in 
Lady Elizabeth preserved by the lords providence, from execution in the Tower.  the Tower, a Writ came down subscribed with certain hands of the Council, for her execution: which if it were certain as it is reported, Winchester (do doubt) was deviser of that mischievous drift. And doubtless the same Achitophel had brought his impious purpose that day to pass, had not the fatherly providence of Almighty God (who is always stronger than the devil) stirred up Master Bridges, lieutenant the same time of the Tower, to come in haste to the Queen, to give certificate thereof, and to know further her consent for her Sister's death. Whereupon it followed, that all that devise was disappointed, and Winchester's 
Winchester's platform overthrown.  devilish platform (which he said he had cast through the lords goodness) came to no effect. Where moreover is to be noted, that during the imprisonment of this Lady and Princess, one Master Edmund Tremaine was on the Rack, and Master Smithwike, and divers other in the Tower were examined, and divers offers made them, to accuse the guiltless Lady, being in her captivity. Howbeit all that notwithstanding, no matter could be proved by all examinations, as she the same time lying at Woodstock, had certain intelligence, by the means of one john Gayer: who under a coullorable pretence of a Letter to Mistress Cleve from her Father, was let in, and so gave them secretly to understand of all this matter. Whereupon the Lady Elizabeth, at her departing out from Woodstock, wrote these Verses with her Diamond in a glass window. 
Much suspected by me: 
Verses written by Lady Elizabeth in the glass window.   
Nothing proved can be.  
Quod Elizabeth prisoner.   
And thus much touching the troubles of Lady Elizabeth at Woodstock. Whereunto this is more to be added, that during the same time, the Lord of Tame had laboured to the Queen, and became surety for her, to have her from woodstock to his house, and had obtained his grant thereof: whereupon preparation was made accordingly, and all things ready in expectation of her coming. 
Lady Elizabeth not suffered to come to the Lord of Tames house.  But thorough the procurement either of Sir Henry Benifield, or by the doing of winchester her mortal enemy, Letters came over night to the contrary, whereby her journey was staid. Thus this worthy Lady oppressed with continual sorrow, could not be permitted to have recourse to any friends she had: but still in the hands of her enemies was left desolate, and utterly destitute of all that might refresh a doleful heart, fraught full of terror and thraldom. Whereupon no marvel, if she hearing upon a time out of her garden at woodstock, a certain 
Lady Elizabeth wisheth herself to be a Milk maid.  Milk maid singing pleasantly, wished herself to be a Milk maid as she was, saying: That her case was better, and life more merrier, then hers was, in that state as she was.  
Now after these things thus declared, to proceed further where we left before, Sir Henry Benifield and his Soldiers, with the Lord of Tame, and Sir Ralphe Chamberlain guarding and waiting upon her: The first night from woodstock, she came to Ricotte. In which journey such a mighty wind did blow, that her servants were feign to hold down her clothes about her: in so much, that her Hood was twice or thrice blown from her head. Whereupon she desirous to return to a gentleman's house there near, could not be suffered by Sir Henry Benifield so to do: but was constrained under a hedge, to trim her head as well as she could. After this, they journeyed the next night to Master Dormers, and so to Colbrooke, where she lay all that night at the George. And by the way coming to Colbrooke, certain of her Grace's Gentlemen and Yeomen met her, to the number of three score, much to all their comforts, who had not seen her Grace of long season before: notwithstanding, they were commanded in the queens name immediately to departed the Town, to both their and her Graces no little heaviness, who could not be suffered once to speak with them. So that night all her men were taken from her, saving her gentleman Usher, three gentlewomen, two Grooms, and one of her Wardrobe, the Soldiers watching and warding round about the house, and she close shut up within her prison. The next day following, her Grace entered Hampton Court on the back side, into the Prince's lodging, the doors being shut to her, and she guarded with Soldiers as before, lay there a fortnight at the least, or ever any had recourse unto her. At length came the Lord William Haward, who marvelous honourably used her Grace: whereat she took much 
The Lord William Haward gentle and favourable to Lady Elizabeth.  comfort, and requested him to be a mean, that she might speak with some of the Council. To whom (not long after) came the Bishop of winchester, the Lord of Arundel, the Lord of Shrewesburie, and Secretary Peter, who with great humility humbled themselves to her Grace. She again likewise saluting them, said. My Lords (quoth she) I am glad to see you: for me thinks I have been kept a great while from you desolately alone. Wherefore I would desire you, to be a mean to the King and queens Majesties, that I may be delivered from prison, wherein I have been kept a long space, as to you my Lords it is not unknown. When she had spoken, Stephen Gardiner the Bishop of winchester kneeled down, and requested 
Lady Elizabeth requested by Winchester, to submit herself to the Queen's mercy.  that she would submit herself to the queens Grace, and in so doing, he had no doubt but her Majesty would be good unto her. She making answer: That rather than she would so do, she would lie in prison all the days of her life, adding: That she craved no mercy at her majesties 
Lady Elizabeth standeth to be tried by the law.  hand, but rather desired the law, if ever she had offended her Majesty, in word, thought, or deed. And besides this, in yielding (quoth she) I should speak against myself, and confess myself to be an offender, which never was towards her Majesty: by occasion whereof, the King and Queen might ever hereafter conceive of me an evil opinion. And therefore I say my Lords, it were better for me to lie in prison for the truth, then to be abroad and suspected of my Prince. And so they departed, promising to declare her message to the Queen.  
On the next day, the Bishop of Winchester came again unto her Grace, and kneeling down, declared that the 
Talk again between Winchester and Lady Elizabeth.  Queen marveled, that she would so stoutly use herself, not confessing to have offended: so that it should seem, the queens Majesty wrongfully to have imprisoned her Grace. Nay (quoth the Lady Elizabeth) it pleaseth her to punish me as she thinketh good. Well (quoth Gardiner) her Majesty willeth me to tell you, that you must tell an other tale, ere that you be set at liberty. Her Grace answered, 
Lady Elizabeth denieth to confess any fault done to the Queen.  that she had as lief be in prison with honesty and truth, as to be abroad suspected of her Majesty: and this that I have said, I will (said she) stand unto, for I will never belie myself. Winchester again kneeled down, and said: Then your Grace hath the vantage of me and other of the Lords, for your so long and wrong imprisonment. What vantage I have (quoth she) you know, taking God to record, I seek no advantage at your hands, for your so dealing with me: but God forgive you and me also. With that the rest kneeled down, desiring her Grace that all might be forgotten, and so departed, she being fast locked up again. A seven-night after, the Queen sent for her 
Lady Elizabeth sent for to the Queen.  Grace at ten a clock in the night, to speak with her: for she had not seen her in two years before. Yet for all that she was amazed at the so sudden sending for, thinking it had been worse for her then afterwards it proved: and desired her gentlemen and gentlewomen to pray for her, for that she could not tell whether ever she should see them again or no. At which time Sir Henry Benifield, with Mistress Clarencius coming, her Grace was brought into the garden, unto a stairs foot that went into the queens lodging, her Grace's gentlewomen waiting on her, her gentleman Usher and her Grooms going before with Torches: where her gentlemen and gentlewomen being commanded to stay, all saving one Woman, Mistress Clarencius conducted her to the queens bed Chamber, where her Majesty was. At the sight of whom her Grace kneeled down, & desired God to preserve her Majesty, not mistrusting but that she should try herself as 
Lady Elizabeth, brought to the Queen's bed Chamber.  true a subject towards her Majesty, as ever did any, and desired her Majesty even so to judge of her, and said: that she should not find her to the contrary, whatsoever report otherwise had gone of her. To whom the Queen answered: 
Talk between the Queen and Lady Elizabeth.  You will not confess your offence, but stand stoutly to your truth: I pray God it may so fall out. If it doth not (quoth the Lady Elizabeth) I request neither favour nor pardon at your majesties hands. Well (said the Queen) you still stiffly persever in your truth: belike you will not confess but that you have been wrongfully punished. I must not say so (it it please your Majesty, quoth she) to you. Why then (said the Queen) belike you will to other. No, if it please your Majesty (quoth she) I have borne the burden, and must bear it. I humbly 
Small comfort at the Queen's hand toward her Sister  beseech your Majesty to have a good opinion of me, and to think me to be your true Subject, not only from the beginning hitherto, but for ever, as long as life lasteth. And so they departed with very few comfortable words of the Queen in English: but what she said in Spanish, God knoweth. It is thought that King Philip was there 
King Philip thought to be a friend to Lady Elizabeth.  behind a cloth, and not seen, and that he showed himself a very friend in that matter, etc. Thus her Grace departing, went to her lodging again, and the seven-night after was delivered of Sir Henry Benifield her Gaoler (as she 
Lady Elizabeth, by God's providence set at liberty.  termed him) and his Soldiers, and so her Grace being set at liberty from imprisonment, went into the Country, and had appointed to go with her Sir Thomas Pope, 
Sir Henry Benifield discharged.  one of Queen Mary's Counsellors, and one of her gentlemen Ushers, Master Gage. And thus straitly was she looked too all Queen Maries time: and this is the discourse of her highness imprisonment.  
Then there came to Lamheyre Master jerningham, and Master Norris gentleman Usher, Queen Mary's men, who took away from her Grace Mistress Ashley to the Fleet, and three other of her gentlewomen to the 
Mistress Ashley sent to the Fleet.  Tower: which was no little trouble to her Grace, saying, that she thought they would fetch away all at the end. 
Three gentlewomen of Lady Elizabeth's sent to the Tower.  But God he praised, shortly after was fetched away Gardener, by occasion of whose opportune decease, the life of this excellent Princess, the wealth of all England, was preserved. 
Note the wonderful working of the lords providence, in saving of Lady Elizabeth.  For this is credible to be supposed, that the said wicked Gardener of Winchester, had long laboured his wits, and to this only most principal mark bend all his devices: to bring this our happy and dear Sovereign out of the way, as both by his words and daily doings 
Lady Elizabeth, delivered by the death of Stephen Gardiner.  sufficiently appeared. But such was the gracious and favourable providence of the Lord, to the preservation not only of her Royal Majesty, but also the miserable and woeful state of this whole Island, and poor Subjects of the same, whereby the proud platforms, and peevish practices of this wretched Achitophel prevailed not: but contrariwise both he, and all the snares and traps of his pernicious council laid against an other, were turned to a net to catch himself, according to the Proverb: Malum consilium consultori pessimum. After the death of this 
How the Lord here began to work for Lady Elizabeth.  Gardener, followed the death also and dropping away of other her enemies, whereby by little and little her jeopardy decreased, fear diminished, hope of comfort began to appear as out of a dark cloud. And albeit her Grace (as yet) had no full assurance of perfect safety, yet more gentle entertainment did daily grow unto her, till at length to the month of November, & seventeen day of the same, three years after the death of Stephen Gardiner, followed the death of Queen Marie. After whose decease, succeeded her foresaid Sister Lady Elizabeth into her 
Lady Elizabeth proclaimed Queen, the same day that Queen Marie died.  right of the Crown of England, who after so long restraintment, so great dangers escaped, such blustering storms overblown, so many injuries digested and wrongs sustained, by the mighty protection of our merciful God, to our no small comfort and commodity, hath been exalted and erected out of thrall to liberty, out of danger to peace and quietness, from dread to dignity, from misery to Majesty, from mourning to ruling: briefly, of a prisoner made a Princess, and placed in her throne Royal, proclaimed now Queen, with as many glad hearts of 
The Lord make England thankful to him, for his great benefits.  her Subjects, as ever was any King or Queen in this Realm before her, or ever shall be (I dare say) hereafter, the Lord long hold his hand over her, and send her to rule many and happy years I beseech him. Amen.  
In this pitiful and rueful History, thou hast (O England) three especial things to consider. First, the hardness of the time then being, and the unmercifulness of those men's hearts, who prepared all their devilish policies, 
Consideration of the hardness of the time then, and the cruel dealing against Lady Elizabeth.  and invented a world of wiles and deceits, whereby they might gain opportunity to destroy this worthy and famous Lady, whose innocency could not appease their bloodthirstiness, nor whose virtues could not assuage their cruel dealing: but even as the wicked jews cried death against our Saviour, even so these unnatural men did their uttermost against this Noble Lady. secondly, thou art to note her wonderful patience, her assured trust 
Consideration of the wonderful patience of Lady Elizabeth.  in God, who never failed her: and even when death was most of all threatened to her, and that many occasions was given for her to doubt the same, her patience was not any jot the more moved, but being confident in God, to whom she referred the state of her innocency, and extremity of their rigorous intentes, she passed through all those agonies with a cheerful and undaunted heart, and their practices to fear her was not so horrible, but her patience in suffering was as admirable. thirdly, thou must remember, 
Consideration of the present help of God at all times to Lady Elizabeth.  the ready working hand of God for her in all her dangers, how graciously he prevented their devices, and had such an especial care over his Daughter, as no extremity whatsoever could prevail against her. For which exceeding love towards thee, how highly thou art bound to his heavenly Majesty, the manifold happy blessings thou hast and dost receive by her, can sufficiently tell thee. But as I have heretofore given thee to understand, the punishment of Treason and treacherous practices, in the reigns of the Kings before passed: so likewise I must crave leave a little, to speak of such matters as hath happened since the reign of our Sovereign Lady and Queen, and then will we proceed on with the rest of our intent.   

¶ Since the reign of our most gracious and Sovereign Lady Queen Elizabeth.  
THe fourth and fift day of januarie, did suffer at Durham to the number of three score and six Constables and 
Rebels executed at Durham. 1570.  other, who were partakers in the rebellion in the North, with the Lords of Westmoreland and Northumberland: amongst whom an Alderman of the Town, and a Priest called Plometree were the most notable. Then Sir George Bows Martial, finding many to be faultors in the foresaid rebellion, did see them executed in every market Town and other places, betwixt Newcastle and Wetherbie, about three score miles in length, and forty miles in breadth.  
On good friday, the seven and twenty day of March, Simon Digbie of Askew, john Fulthorp of Isilbecke in the 
Rebels executed at York.  County of York esquires, Robert Peneman of Stokesley, Thomas Bishop the younger of Poklinton in the same County of York Gentlemen, were drawn from the Castle of York, to the place of execution called Knaves-myre, half a mile without the City of York, and there hanged, headed and quartered: their four heads were set on the four principal gates of the City, with four of their quarters, the other quarters were set in divers places of the Country: Oscolph Clesbe was with them drawn to the gallows, and returned again to the Castle.  
One Hillyard the Earl of Northumberlands man, and 
Rebels executed at Berwicke.  a vagraunt person named William Godswher, were taken among the other rebels, and were brought to Berwicke, where they were executed the four and twenty day of May.  
The seven and twenty day of May, Thomas Norton 
The Nortons' executed.  and Christopher Norton of Yorkshire, being both condemned of high treason, for the late rebellion in the North: were drawn from the Tower of London to Tyburn, and there hanged, headed and quartered.  
A conspiracy was made by certain Gentlemen and other, in the County of Norfolk, whose purpose was on 
Conspiracy in Norfolk.  Midsummer day, at Harlestone Fair, with sound of Trumpet and Drum, to have raised a number, and then to proclaim their devilish pretence against Strangers and other. This matter was uttered by Thomas Kete one of the conspiracy, unto john Kensey, who forthwith sent the same Kete with a Constable to the next justice, before whom and other justices, he opened the whole matter. Whereupon, Master Dreugh Drewrie immediately apprehended john Throckmorton, and after him many Gentlemen of the City of Norwich, and the County of Norfolk, who were all committed to prison. And at the next Sessions of jail delivery at the Castle of Norwich, the seventeen of julie, before Sir Robert Catlin Knight, Lord chief justice, Master Gilbert Gerrard, the Queen's Attorney general, and other justices, ten of them were endighted of high Treason, and some others of contempt, divers of them were condemned, and had judgement the one and twenty of August, and afterward three of them were hanged, bowelled and quartered, which were john Throckmorton of Norwich Gentleman, who stood mute at his arraignment, but at the gallows, confessed himself to be the chief conspirator, and that none had deserved to die but he, for that he had procured them. With him was executed Thomas Brook of Rolsebie Gentleman, the thirty day of August, and George Redman of Cringlefoord Gentleman, was likewise executed the second day of September.  
The eight day of August, john Felton, who before had 
john Felton executed in Paul's Churchyard in London. 1571.  been condemned in the Guild Hall of London, for hanging a Bull at the gate of the Bishop of London's Palace, was drawn from Newgate into Paul's Churchyard, and there hanged on a gallows new set up that morning, before the Bishop's Palace gate: and being cut down alive, he was bowelled and quartered.  
The first day of june, john Story a Doctor of the Cannon 
Doctor Story executed at Tyburn. 1572.  Law, who had been a great persecutor of God's flock in the reign of Queen Marie, having been before condemned of high treason: was drawn from the Tower of London to Tyburn, and there hanged, bowelled and quartered, his head set on London Bridge, and his quarters on the gates of the City.  
The eleventh day of February, Kenelm Barney, and 
Kenelm Barney, Edward Mather, and Henry Rolfe executed for treason.  Edward Mather, were drawn from the Tower of London to Tyburn, and Henry Rolfe from the Marshalsea in Southwark, to the same place of execution: where they were all three hanged, bowelled and quartered for treason. Barney and Mather for conspiracy, and Rolfe for counterfeiting the queens majesties hand.  
The sixteenth of januarie, the Lord Thomas Haward, Duke of Norfolk, was arraigned in Westminster Hall, 
The Duke of Norfolk condemned for high treason, and beheaded on the Tower hill.  before George Lord Talbot, Earl of Shrewesburie, high Steward of England for that day: and there by his Peers found guilty of high treason, and had judgement accordingly. So on the second day of june following, in the morning between the hours of seven and eight, the said Thomas Haward Duke of Norfolk, was beheaded on a scaffold set up on the Tower hill.  
The two and twenty day of August, Thomas Percy 
The Earl of Northumberland beheaded at York for high treason.  Earl of Northumberland, late of Topcliffe, who had been before attainted by Parliament of high treason, as being one of the principal conspirators in the late rebellion in the North, and now brought out of Scotland, whether he had fled: was beheaded at York, about two of the clock in the after noon, on a new scaffold, set up for that purpose in the Market place.  
The eight and twenty day of November, john Hall Gentleman, and Oswalde Wilkinson late of York, and 
john Hall and Oswald Wilkinson executed. 1573.  Gaoler of York castle, being before arraigned and condemned of high treason: were drawn from the Tower of London to Tyburn, and there hanged, bowelled and quartered.  
The sixteen day of june, Thomas Woodhouse a Priest 
Thomas Woodhouse executed. 1574.  of Lincolneshiere, who had been long prisoner in the Fleet, was arraigned in the Guild hall of London, and there condemned of high treason: who had judgement to be hanged and quartered, and was executed at Tyburn the nineteen day of june.  
Cuthbert maine, being condemned of high treason, the 
Cuthbert maine executed. 1577.  thirty day of November, was drawn, hanged and quartered at Lawnceston, in the province of Cornwall.  
The third day of February, early in the morning, john 
john Nelson executed.  Nelson, being condemned of high treason against her Majesty: was drawn from Newgate to Tyburn, and there hanged, bowelled and quartered.  
The seventeen day of February, one named Thomas 
Thomas Sherwood executed. 1578.  Sherwood, having been before condemned of high treason, was drawn from the Tower of London to Tyburn, and was there hanged, bowelled and quartered.  
William Lacie, and one Kirkman a Priest, being condemned 
William Lacie & Kirkman executed at York.  of high treason, were drawn, hanged and quartered at York.  
Euerard Haunse alias Ducat, an obstinate and a wicked 
Euerard Haunse executed.  Traitor, having been condemned of high treason, was drawn from Newgate to Tyburn, and there hanged and quartered, according to his judgement.  
The first day of December, Edmund Campion jesuite, 
Edmund Campion, Ralphe Sherwin, and Alexander Briant executed. 1581.  Ralphe Sherwin, & Alexander Briant Seminary Priests, were, drawn from the Tower of London to Tyburn, where they were hanged, and afterward were bowelled and quartered for high treason.  
On Monday the eight and twenty day of May, Thomas 
Thomas Ford, john Shirt, and Robert johnson executed.  Ford, john Shirt, and Robert johnson Priests, who were copartners with Campion in his traitorous enterprises, were drawn from the Tower of London to Tyburn, where they were hanged, bowelled and quartered for high treason.  
On wednesday following, being the thirty day of May, 
Luke Kirbie, William Filbie, Thomas Cottan, and Lauraunce Richardson. 1582.  Luke Kirbie, William Filbie, Thomas Cottam, and Lauraunce Richardson, who were likewise of Campions' confederacy: were drawn from the Tower of London to Tyburn, and there hanged, bowelled and quartered for high treason.  
john Slade and john Body, two obstinate and notorious 
john Slade, and john Body executed.  Traitors, being condemned of high treason: john Slade was drawn, hanged and quartered at Winchester, on wednesday being the third day of October, and john Body executed in like manner at Andover on the saturday following.  
Edward Arden Esquire, being condemned of high treason, 
Edward Arden executed in Smithfield. 1583.  was drawn from Newgate into Smithfield, where he was hanged, bowelled and quartered. And john Sommeruile, who should have been executed with him, being condemned for the same offence, destroyed himself in Newgate the day before.  
William Carter, a Stationer by Occupation, for printing 
William Carter executed.  of traitorous Books and other notorious offences, was drawn from Newgate to Tyburn, where he was hanged bowelled and quartered.  
On Wednesday being the twelfth day of February, Haddock, 
Haddock, fen, Hemerfoord, Nutter and Munden executed.  Fen, Hemerfoord, Munden and Nutter, were all five drawn from the Tower of London to Tyburn, where they were hanged, bowelled & quartered for high treason.  
France's Throckmorton Esquire, for divers traitorous 
Frances Throckmorton executed. 1584.  practices attempted against the queens Majesty, was arraigned and condemned in the Guild hall of London, and afterward on the tenth day of julie, he was drawn from the Session's house in London to Tyburn, where he was hanged, bowelled and quartered.  
Here mayest thou O England (as in a Glass) behold the success of treason from time to time, by these so many and sundry examples here offered unto thee, whereof full many remain fresh and quick in remembrance, thou mayst discern, how God, who placeth Kings and Princes in their seats and Signories, and by whose appointment they have their ruling on earth: doth sharply chastise such wicked branches, as deal otherwise then beseems them with their Princes and Governors. Be their minds 
God sharply scourgeth all traitors, who practise any evil against their Prince.  never so haughty, be their devices never so subtle, yea, and let them work never so closely: his eye discerneth them, and seeing their secret intentions is against them whom he hath anointed, he bringeth them and their practices to open view, that the world may see their undutiful dealing, and by the punishment which he worthily imputeth to such offenders, the rest may learn and dispose themselves to better government. But let me England come a little nearer thee, and order the matter so, as thou mayst find thyself touched in deed. Perhaps thou wilt say these things are done and passed, and they were but a certain few that thus have offended, and being justly scourged for their misdemeanours, they are now quite worn out of remembrance, in hope there remaineth none such as they have been. Alas, canst thou thus blindly overthrow thyself in conceit? Dost thou not consider, that 
England hath been greatly endangered by traitorous practices.  all these evil imps have been of thine own breeding, and that thou hast fostered such Children, as have pierced into thy bowels, shaken all thy sinews, yea, and almost have wrung the very marrow out of thy joints, whereby thou hast been so feebled, and thy strength so far decayed, as without God's great mercy thou hadst been unable ever to arise again? And cannot these irking occasions yet make thee mindful of thy good? Cannot these bitter passions cause thee to look better to thy children? To train them up in more awe of God, in better affection to their Prince, and in more effectual love (than they yet show) to thyself? If thy children be so unnatural, as to make their mother smart, thou shalt but show thyself natural in ministering correction: for better they weep than thou bleed, so shall they in time find it to their benefit, and thou thyself live to be a happy mother. But if thou seek that state 
The cause of an evil cut off, the effect can take no place.  of quietness, and art desirous to weed out such bad plants as trouble thy whole Soil: thou must look into the dealings of thy Children more heedfully than thou dost, and spying where the inconvenience lieth, rather slip off that branch suddenly, then hazard the perishing of the whole body, and then thou shalt take an undoubted good course: then treason and treacherous practices will never be so rife, and such queasy stomachs as cannot brook necessary council, but follow every disordered humour, will be glad to call themselves home again, and live within compass of duty and modesty.  
But whence grow these dangerous practices? And who are they that set foot in these traitorous attempts? Alas it is soon seen, by reason the open appearance from time to time, doth make it evident. There is no one that repineth 
No greater enemies to the safety of England, than Papists.  at her majesties safety, no one that lifteth at the well settled government of this Realm, nor any one more ready to pull down the chief pillar of our happiness: but either he is a Papist, or else marvelously addicted that way. And have we not good cause so to persuade ourselves, when we see it daily before our eyes, that they are men of that coat, and either have received encouragement amongst their fellows beyond Seas, or else have been emboldened by such as secretly flippe over into the Realm, to follow that traitorous intent which they long time have practised. And then when God revealeth their wicked spirits, and bringeth them into the light that they may be example to 
The common speech of Traitors at their death.  other: then they cry out, I am a Catholic, I will die in the Catholic cause, and thus under show of Religion, they would deceive the world with their horrible treasons. It is now high time therefore, when Traitors themselves have given warning of their own treasons, to search the confederacy, yea, and as Miners follow the signs every way as they spread in the ground, till they be guided to the trunk or body of the metal: so to follow the appearances of suspicions and likelihoods, till it appear plainly what light made the shadow, or what fire made the smoke. It is not good tarrying, till the flame mounting in the air above the house top, the principals and pillars consumed, and each part so embraced with fire, that no aid dare approach: do plainly declare, the whole building past hope of recovery. Fires oftentimes negligently raked up, sticks ends not thoroughly quenched, embers not regarded, a candles end not looked unto: have brought many an honest man to pitiful calamity. I like therefore better the honest wisdom of those, that study 
It is the duty of every good subject, to have a special care of the safety of his Prince.  how the queens Majesty our most gracious Lady may stand and not fall, than the reaching policy of those, that devise how themselves may stand when the Queen is fallen. God preserve her Highness long, for her falling would make a Sampsons' post with us all: yea, and rightly a Sampsons' post, for no doubt it would bruise them too, that be busiest to pull it down. But now (England) I will be so bold as to emblazon the Papists a little better, that thou mayst be the more heedful to them, and give no credit to their secret persuasions, and according as a worthy learned man, hath heretofore painted them forth in notable conclusions: even so since the time, place & matter requireth it so fitly, it shall not be a miss here to remember thee of the very same conclusions, and surely all true Christians, and all true English subjects ought to believe, and may well know, that these are very true and undoubted conclusions.  
First that every Papist, that is to say, every one that 
The first conclusion, of such as hold all the Pope's doctrine to be true.  believeth all the Pope's doctrine, to be true: is an enemy and traitor, against the Majesty and honour of God, against the Crowns and dignities of all Kings and temporal Princes, and against the wealth and safety of all civil Kingdoms, policies, and Common weals.  
secondly, that every such English Papist is a traitor 
The second conclusion, of such as expect their Golden day.  to the Queen of England, and hateth her life, wisheth the alteration of her government, and liveth in hope of an other world: which even by an ordinary byword, it is said themselves do call their Golden day.  
thirdly, that every such English Papist is a special 
The third conclusion, of such as would overthrow these Country, for their Idolatrous Religion.  traitor to the Realm of England, and hath no regard into what slavery, subjection to foreign tyranny, dishonour or other misery it be thrown: so that their false, Idolatrous and superstitious religion be restored, with liberty to spoil and murder, without respect of dignity, age, sex, learning, reverence, honesty or nature.  
fourthly, that no clemency, gentleness, benefits, or loving 
The fourth conclusion, of such as can not be won to love her Majesty.  dealing, can win a Papist, while he continueth a Papist, to love her Majesty, how much so ever he dissemble, nor bring them to ascribe their safety to any her benefits, nor to any praise of her own goodness: but either to their own dissimulation, practice, and falsehood, which some call cunning, or to the holiness of their cause, for whom God forsooth so provideth, as his anointed once may not possibly by Law, or at least execution of Law, be touched. Where in deed, if they continue still unpunished, it must be thought that GOD so purveyeth, because the punishments of this world are not sufficient for them: but yet in the mean time it serveth to make them unexcusable, by whose default so dangerous Wolves remain in the flock.  
Item, that Papistry hath this property of heresies, contrary to the nature of God's truth: that is, to be thrown 
The fift conclusion, of the property of papistry.  down with adversity, and to flourish with indulgence and lenity.  
Item, that as it is reason, that the owner of a shéepbiter 
The sixth conclusion, of such Papists as are mur derers of God's flock.  Mastiff, knowing his dogs quality: should either hang up his dog, or pay for the sheep that his dog worrieth. So those that have notorious Shéepbiters, murderers of God's flock, in their custody and power, must make their account, either to hang up or otherwise dispatch their curs: or else to answer to God for the blood of his sheep, both such as they have destroyed, and such as they may destroy by any possibility hereafter.  
Item, that all advises to great personages, to persuade 
The seventh conclusion, of the causes of supplan thing assured safety.  neutrality, or an entertaining of contrary sides in Religion, with uncertainty of countenance and favour: is the way to supplant assured safety, to make sure enemies and unsure friends, to lie open to parasites and traitors, to be unknown to other, and to be unable to discern what other be to them.  
Item, that timorous policy is the worst policy that 
The eight conclusion, how timorous policy is worst, in a good cause.  may be, whatsoever the cause be, good or bad, and worst of all it is in best causes. Wherein as her Majesty hath neither want of constant magnanimity, nor cause of fear: so is it meet that her enemies have no stomach to contemn her, nor by excess of clemency, to misconstrue her goodness as lack of daring.  
Item, that by the great novelties and alterations of 
The ninth conclusion, of zealous boldness in serving the Queen.  times, that have happened within our memory, there is risen a common policy among the people, to join to strong and safe sides, whereby they are aliened from the fearful: and therefore it is to be provided, that there be a boldness of safety, to serve the queens Majesty truly and zealously, and an assuredness of danger to her enemies.  
Item, by boldness, and sharp execution upon enemies, 
The tenth conclusion, that boldness doth encourage the friends.  the friends are encouraged: and contrariwise, if the dangerous traitor be not removed, the true Subject may be left in peril, and thereby the rest of good Subjects disabled, or at least discouraged to venture so far again, and the freedom of consultation (in the mean time) for preserving the Prince, impeached.  
Item, that it is as truly said: Improbum hominem 
The eleventh conclusion, of the danger in meddling with a naughty man.  praestat non accusasse quam absoluere. It is better not to meddle with a dangerous naughty man, then to let him go: for what were it else, but to set an house on fire, and run away by the light.  
Item, that occasions and ●●tte opportunities over slipped, 
The twelfth conclusion, of tyme.  are not recoverable.  
Item, that many times it is as small an offence, to give 
The thirteenth conclusion, as good the killing a true man as sparing a traitor.  a warrant to kill a true man: as to pardon a murderer or a traitor: as a wise Shepherd will rather give leave to a Hunter, to kill the best Lamb in his flock, then to let go a Fore or a Wolf.  
Item, that the lives of Kings and Princes, are the 
The fourteenth conclusion, that the life of a king, is the life of his kingdom.  lives and souls of their Kingdoms and Common weals, whereby they are to consider, that in being prodigal of their own safeties, in excess of clemency to traitors, or in security of exposing their persons to perils: Largiuntur ex alieno, they be liberal of that, which is not their own to give.  
Item, that no Traitor is more perilous, than he that 
The fifteenth conclusion, the most perilous traitor.  wresteth the Law, to raise an underminer of the Prince's Crown, to her danger.  
Item, that he is justly to be suspected, that shall practise 
The sixteenth conclusion, of such as stand against the Prince's defence.  with any vain devise of pacification, or coullored clemency, to rebate or blunt the edge of the Prince's sword, or so to tie it in the scabbard, that it may not be drawn for her defence: as if such qualifiers, hiders and cloakers, should seek to abuse that most reverend and holy figure of Majesty to no good end, or other end than God ordained it.  
Item, that God cannot well take it, if he be less zealously served then the devil, that there be less fervency 
The seventeenth conclusion, when God is less served than the devil.  showed by truly learned Princes, for advancing of God's honour against his enemies: then hath been by abused and deceived Princes, for setting up of the kingdom of the devil and Antichrist.  
Item, that God's commandments of placability and 
The eighteenth conclusion, that no attempt against her Majesty, aught to be accounted a private cause.  forgiveness, extend to our own enemies, but not to his enemies, against revenge of private displeasures, and not against severity and sharp execution, in cases of God's honour and Common weals: wherein is always to be noted, that the Prince is so not a private but a public person, as no attempt against her majesties safety, can or aught to be accounted a private cause.  
The full proof and large explication of these conclusions, though it be easy, as a thing which not only all conveniency of reason affirmeth, but also daily experience layeth before all men's eyes, that have a free consideration, not accumbered with corrupt zeal and affection: so yet surely were it a meet thing to be handled by some man, as could add thereto such ornaments of speech, such strength of eloquence, and pith of persuasion, as might not only be understood and believed, but be felt and move. Here any most excellent Orators special virtues might be well employed. A fit argument sure it were to show wit and knowledge, but specially truth & good meaning. But till some fit person shall take it in hand, to bestow his more profitable travail that way: let us yet for unlading of some of the abundance of entire devotion for God's truth, for her most excellent Majesty, and our Country, have some remembrance of the particularities thereof.  
For the first article that defineth Papists, that accuseth 
The meaning and proof of the first conclusion.  them of treason to God, to Kings, and to Realms: if it be well weighed, it cannot but quickly be seen for undoubted truth. Though it be true, that every one that holdeth any one error, or article of doctrine that the Pope teacheth, varying from the word of God, is in that article a Papist, as for example, the heresy of Transubstantiation, the blasphemy of popish Mass, or any such other: yet count I not every such a one wholly a Papist within compass of this article, that is, under the title of a traitorous Papist. But such a one as holdeth all the Pope's doctrine to be true, that 
Not all Papists are traitors.  the Roman Church erreth not, that it hath rightfully such superiority and primacy in others Kingdoms and Dioceses, 
Note this England.  as it hath proudly claimed and usurped, and that Christians are bound to refer their faith unto it, and to hang upon the Pope's determinations. Many men otherwise good and honest Subjects, are not purged of all errors, wherewith Rome hath infected them, and must have their time to be better instructed. But those that are perfect Papists, that publish the Pope to be head of the Church (which yet in deed is no member of the true 
Which Papists are traitors.  Church) and would have us with an implicit and bond faith, to depend upon that Sea, and for that reason will refuse by all means, to confess the right of Princes in their Kingdoms over all their Subjects: they be perfect traitors in deed, yea, and the learned sort of them be wilful Heretics and Traitors. For though in the dark 
Learned Papists wilful traitors.  times, when controversies of Religion were not brought into searching, the stream of error carried men away without doubting: yet since that by debating, the light hath been evidently opened, and men have sought and throughly examined the matter, there is no learned Papist, but he knoweth that he maintaineth error, and in defending and spreading the same, he defendeth & spreadeth, and so directly, advisedly, wilfully and maliciously, putteth in execution to his uttermost power, high treasons against God, against Kings and their Kingdoms. Against God I call them treasons, though our Law, the judge of civil treasons in England, have no such name, because the 
Treason, offence against Majesty.  nature of the offence so properly receiveth that title, and also the usual name of high treason in jure gentium, in the common law of Nations, and in other languages, doth so plainly express it. High treasons are in their true nature, offences against high Majesty, that is, either to the destruction of the persons, or denial and defacement of the just dignities and authorities, of those that bear the name of Majesty, and to whom the highest duty of obedience, faith and allegiance extendeth. And therefore is treason called Crimen lesae Maiestatis, the crime of violating or abating Majesty. Greater Majesty than the Majesty of God cannot be: therefore higher and verier treasons then against God cannot be. His person cannot be destroyed, or 
Treason against God.  touched: but his dignity, honour, glory and authority may be slandered and blasphemed, and his Subjects, who are mortal men, may be withdrawn from their due obedience, and drawn into rebellion against him. And this I say is high treason to God, to violate or abate the Majesty of God: and this do Papists. For though God be King of 
Papists violate the Majesty of God, which is high treason against him.  the whole world, and so is rightly called the Lord by universal name, yea, even of devils: yet is his Church his more proper and certain kingdom, whereby he is more restrainedlie and apply called our King and our Father, and so more fitly called our head in respect of the body, which is his Church, and not the rest of the world. In this Kingdom his highest dignity is to be the only head thereof, which the Papists take from him, and derive it to their Pope. And though with gloss they excuse it, that their Popes take it not from God, but use it under God, as his Uicares: yet must they be admonished, that without sufficient deputation, and warrant from the King himself, (which the Pope hath not) the Subject to thrust himself into the governance of the kingdom, is high treason, where he that being a stranger would seek to conquer it, were but an enemy. And so is it rightly to be said, that 
The Pope an high Traitor against God, and the Turk but an enemy.  the Turk is to God an enemy, and the Pope is to God a traitor, and all his adherents are principal traitors: for treason admitteth no accessaries.  
But now let us come to that part, which toucheth men 
Papists Traitors to Kings and Kingdoms.  more merely than any love of God. Let us now see how they be traitors to Kings and Kingdoms. If we have mind to see that Papists, which hold all the Pope's doctrine to be true, are traitors in deed to Kings and Kingdoms: it behoveth us to call to mind what are the Pope's doctrines, doings and practices concerning the Crowns of Kings, and states of Kingdoms. Pope's have challenged, and Papists (that affirm the Popes to be free from error, their doctrine to be true, and their authority to be lawful) do also hold, that it is their due which 
Traitorous doctrines of Popes for Kings and Kingdoms.  they challenge, that is: To have authority of both Swords, Spiritual and Temporal, the one in exercise, the other in power: To have the disposition of all the Crowns of Christian Princes: To have the judgement of deciding, to whom the right of any kingdom belongeth: To have power for disobedience to him, or by his discretion, to transfer the Crowns of Kings to whom he will: To have lawful power, to give Kingdoms to prey, spoil and conquest, to such as can invade and possess them: To have power to assoil and discharge Christian subjects, from faith and allegiance to their lawful and natural Sovereign Lords, Kings and Princes: To have power to give leave, yea, commandment, blessing, reward, forgiveness of sins, and Heaven itself, to Subjects to rebel 
The Pope will give heaven to Subjects, to rebel against their Prince.  against their Prince, to depose the Prince, disherit and destroy him: That there is of common right, and by the mere law of God, reserved to the Pope a special subjection, resort, appellation, and obedience of one great part of all Prince's Subjects, yea, and of all Subjects of all Princes in one great part of their causes. Be not these heinous treasons? And these cannot be denied, to be the natural and very treasons of all Papists, that is to say, of all that depend upon credit of the Pope, that hold him for God's vicar, for Peter's successor, for whom Christ prayed, that his faith should not fail, that apply to him this title: Ad quem perfidia non potest accedere, to whom falsehood cannot reach, that hold him for a constant Rock, an assured Preacher of truth, an Apostolical man, if he be not some other thing then a man, to whom our belief is bounden: with such other false titles, wherewith Popes themselves, have garnished themselves, and their Parasites have overladen them.  
Consider the ordinary practice of Popes and Papists according to these doctrines, and then you shall see, that 
Traitorous doings of Papists against Kings & Kingdoms: special matter for England to mark.  from the most high treason, which the Pope committed against his Sovereign Lord the Emperor: the renting and destruction of the Empire: all the victories and successes of the Saracens and Turks against Christendom: all the tearing away of most noble and large Kingdoms and provinces, from the body of Christianity: all the subduing and thralling of infinite Christian souls, to Mahomet and the Devil: all the deposings, murderinges, turmoilings, civil wars, debates between Christian Princes, shedding of Christian blood, indignities and oppressions of Christian Kings and Emperors, conquests, rebellions and mischiefs, for these five hundred years and above: are wholly and chiefly to be imputed to the treasons of Popes and Papists. All Grecia (sometime most noble and learned) yet lamentably ruth it. All Africa, the mother of most constant Martyrs, feeleth it. The German Emperors, with most heinous reproaches, and fowl treading on their necks, may not forget it. The Kings of France and Spain, both at home in their native Kingdoms, and abroad, as well in Naples, Sicily, Lombardie, as in other territories of Italy and of the Empire, have sharply felt it. The Lords and States of Italy, have been daily and long shaken with it. The Kings of England have been poisoned, whipped, beaten with rods, murdered, deposed, the Land given in conquest, interdicted, made tributary, rob, pilled and scraped of their treasure, brought into slavish subjection, deprived of honour and estimation, every way most villainously abused. To let pass the elder times and further Realms, let us speak of deposing of old Emperors, erecting of new, setting the Son against the Father, the Subject against his Lord, making them come bare footed, themselves with their wives and children long weighting with submission 
Behold the horrible pride and villainous dealing of Popes & Papists, and slavery of Princes.  in cold frosts, treading on their necks, spurning of their Crowns, & a thousand such abominable prides of Popes, and slaveries of Princes. Let us deal but with ourselves, and with our own feeling, knowledge and memory. The accursing of King john: the receiving him vassaill: the making his Realm subject and feudatorie to the 
Example of the Popes & Papists dealing with King john.  Pope: the arming his Subjects against him: the poisoning of him at length: the giving the Land to the French kings son: the invading thereof by the Dolphin of France: his so long possessing a great part of it: the rebellion of the Barons to take the French men's part: all the mischiefs that fell in all this while, were they not the good works of Popes and Papists? The great division of the two noble houses of Lancaster and York, which cost 
The great division between the two noble houses of Lancaster and York, caused by the Popish Clergy and Papists.  so much English blood, that there remaineth no house of high or mean Nobility, that hath not smarted for it. So many fought fields within the Realm, so long and so great uncertainty, which side were true men and which were Traitors, and for how many days or hours they should be so esteemed: such desolation and miseries, to whom are they to be imputed, but to the Popish Clergy and Papists, and among other to Thomas Arundel Archbishop of Canterbury, that traitorously practised the deposing of his lawful Sovereign Lord King Richard the 
Thomas Archbishop of Canterbury, practised the deposing of King Richard the second.  second? But come yet to later times. How was the queens Majesties most noble Father, assaulted by the Pope and Papists? His Realm was interdicted, and given away to him that could catch it. Legates, and one notable English traitor, were sent about to persuade Christian Princes, to invade England, to destroy and depose 
King Henry the eight, assaulted by the Pope and Papists.  King Henry, and to take the Realm in reward for their labour. When Charles the late Emperor was setting forward against the Turk, Cardinal Poole being sent by the Pope, made a solemn Oration to him, which is yet extant in print: to persuade the Emperor, to turn his prepared power from invading the Turk, and to bend it against King Henry the eight, as one worse than any Turk. What turmoil was then raised by the Northern Rebels against him, whereof some by his clemency (a good example) have lived to this day to raise a new rebellion? How troubled they her majesties most excellent Brother with unhappy seditions? How vexed they, and 
King Edward the sixth vexed by the Papists.  how endangered they the Realm, and the Queens own person in her Sister's time, as in the Story before rehearsed you may read at large? What might Charles the Emperor have done, for recovery and enlarging of Christendom, if his force that way intended, had not by the Pope's practice been perverted sundry ways and times, to ●●●in shedding of christian blood, and wasting of Christendom, and to the overthrow of his victorious course? What tempests hath the late conspiracy of Trent blown 
The conspiracy of the late Council of Trent.  up in Christendom, that cannot yet be quieted: and all because the Pope hath instilled an opinion into his Papists, that Princes, if he dispense with them, are not bound to 
The Pope teacheth to keep no faith.  keep faith and promise, no, not the word of a King, whereby no peace can be assured? Whereof yet riseth one good admonition, to trust them no more, and to be well aware of them, and specially to think of this one particular: that wicked persons, who have given occasion of dangerous rebellions against the queens Majesty, their chief and only succour and refuge, will never be withholden by any respect, from attempting, or procuring to be attempted, any most high and heinous treason and mischief, against our Sovereign Lady's safety, if an avauntageable opportunity may serve them, so long as such persons are infected with Papistry, and can think the Pope able to pardon, or rather willing to reward them, yea, so far as they shall suppose themselves, not only to win the Kingdom of England thereby, but also the kingdom of Heaven. It is perilous to think what traitorous rage may do, being armed with drunken superstition. It is a sore thing to consider the impotency of ambition, specially when it is joined with the fury of reasonless love. The 
The whore of Rome an actual dealer in all wicked practices against Kings & Kingdoms.  common experience is, how dangerous those knots of thieves be, where there is a woman in the company. Thus is it plain, that for as much as the Pope claimeth such wrongful usurpation and tyranny, over Kings & Realms, and sith Papists hold that he saith true, and claimeth but his right, and cannot err in discerning it: all such Papists are Traitors to all Kings and Kingdoms.  
As for the second Conclusion, which accuseth English Papists of treason to the queens Majesty: it is sufficiently 
The second conclusion, proving English Papists traitors to the Queen.  proved, for that it is a particular within a general, included in the former. Yet for the special confirmation of it, it hath certain private and several reasons. It is well known, and you have read the whole discourse before, how they sought her Grace's death in her Sister's time, what practices, what fetches were used for it, what examinations, what searchinges, were to find colour of her destruction: yea, how far without colour they proceeded, if God had not miraculously kept her, to the preservation of this Realm, and the comfort of all Christendom. But to make some demonstration of their hatred to her Majesty by reason, & after to descend to the examples and practices: let us examine the causes.  
Whereas the Papists hold, that the Pope is head of 
Papists that hold the Pope head of the Church in England, are traitors to her Majesty.  God's universal Church, and that such authority as the Queen claimeth in England, over Ecclesiastical persons and in Ecclesiastical causes, as due to her Highness in right of her Crown, is not due to her, but belonging to the Pope: in so saying, they must say that her Majesty claimeth an unjust tyrannical power. And who so ever shall so say, though not in the same syllables: is an unjust and an errant traitor, and cannot love her that hath pull led him down whom they call head of their Church.  
Where the Pope hath accursed the queens Majesty as an Heretic and Scismatique, all those Papists which 
Papists that hold the Pope's excommunication against the Queen lawful, are traitors.  suppose, that the Pope having the disposition of God's sentence, and the thunderbolt of excommunication in his hand, cannot err: do also suppose that the queens Highness, (our Queen Elizabeth I mean) is not lawful Queen of England, (as many of them have not spared to say) for so must all Papists hold, that hold the Pope to say true, for the Pope doth not so accept her. And Papists have published, that Gospelers, whom they call Heretics, ought not to have any office among God's people, much less a Kingdom. And this point is well to be considered, that they which take from the queens Majesty, the Supremacy over Ecclesiastical persons and causes: do transfer the same jurisdiction to the Pope, for they never yet vouchsafed to give it to any other. And yet I am sure, that after so many examples of Bees and Beasts and other things, they will not now have any particular Church headless, and destitute of a supreme Governor: either universal like a Monarch as they would have it, or special under God of each Kingdom or Dominion, as Gods good disposition hath forced it. If then the Pope have (in their opinion) any Ecclesiastical jurisdiction in England, he must 
The Pope cannot excommunicate in England, unless he had just authority so to do.  have I us excommunicandi, lawful power and authority to excommunicate in England: without which the Ecclesiastical power cannot stand. Which power if he justly have, & hath excommunicated and accursed her Majesty, either by especial name (as he doth) or generally under title of Heretics, of which sort he esteemeth her: then hath he therein done Pro suo iure as he might lawfully do. And this being so supposed true, then is it good to consider what is taken for God's law, and the law Ecclesiastical De vitandis excommunicatis, for shunning of excommunicate 
Papists draw obedience from the Queen.  and accursed persons, which yield not to any repentant submission, or reconciliation to the Church. Forsooth, that every christian on pain of excommunication De iure (wherein to die, is thought to die in state of damnation) is bound to withdraw from such accursed persons not repenting, all friendly or loving company and countenance, all aid and relief, all service and obedience. Which doing, for 
Papists meritorious treason.  these good Subjects of England, to put in execution toward the Queen, were a very meritorious act. But what doth it merit? The just pains of treason, for breaking their due allegiance, and eternal damnation (if they repent not) for resisting Gods lawful ordinance. This gear goeth sore, it is very evident and plain, that by necessary consequence, to this confession of traitorous they must be driven, if they will continue Papists, that is, will affirm the Pope's sentences not to err, or will give the Pope any spiritual jurisdiction in England. But such salves are not unlike to come out of his shop, that dispenseth with breach of faith, yea, that openly proclaimeth, that there is no faith to be kept with Christ's friends and his adversaries. His shop that can send out badges, with leave to swear and unswear, with so liberal permission, as to say: Give me thy heart and it sufficeth. And well may it suffice, for the heart will carry the hand too, when opportunity serveth, and when their Golden day approacheth, of which they make so great account. Such fellows would be well looked on. And because they cannot get her Highness to cease to be their lawful Queen, themselves have ceased to be her actual Subjects. Because they cannot shift her Majesty from her Crown, they have shifted themselves out of her highness Dominions, and are fled beyond the Seas. Some being there, send hither their heretical, seditious & traitorous Books: 
Seditious writers that send their traitorous libels into England.  yet licensed there, against good precedent of Princes, and against the example of her majesties demeanour toward the same Princes, which by themselves or their Officers, rather ought to have restrained such doings, then to leave so shrewd occasion, of taking harm themselves by the like. In these Books her right is impugned: her faith is defamed: her government is discredited: her honour is touched: 
The circumstances of those traitorous Books.  her Majesty is many ways violated and abated: the Religion that her Highness holdeth and publisheth, is called schismatical, Heretical, Devilish, and with as many ill favoured names as they can rehearse, being yet in such eloquence perfect Orators. The Preachers and professors of the Religion, that her Highness setteth forth and professeth, are termed worse than Infidels: her title of Supremacy over all her Subjects, is defaced for an usurped and undue name, and her subjects hearts alienated and persuade to grudge against her. These wicked and traitorous Pamphlettes want no favourers to spread 
These traitorous Books want no favourers to spread them abroad, and to credit them with what commendations they may.  them abroad, nor do they that disperse them lack any boldness, to read them in audiences & in corners: where they commend them, defend them, give them great praises for learning and substantialness, as matters unanswerable, when God he knows there is no such surpassing excellency in them, as they that have the spurs yet sticking in their sides, and have been broken winded with over galloping them, yea, they that are of their own faction have not been ashamed to speak it, how notably they have been wounded by many of her majesties learned subjects. Nevertheless, they continue writing still, and all pretences that both the Pope and Papists can devise, are daily and hourly spread abroad in the Realm, to weaken the good wills of her majesties Subjects toward her, and by all false and vain colours they can imagine, they practise how to draw more subjects to take their parts. But in the mean time, as God gathereth his glory out of all things, yea, even out of sins: so England, out of this great 
The evil dealing of Papists, a good lesson for England.  evil thou mayst gather some good, a good example and good lesson for thee to learn, that Papistry is treason, and he that is infected with treason is a traitor, and so provide against them hereafter. Let them follow what humours they please, do thou in the mean time take a contrary course. Where they look for an other time, do thou endeavour to maintain this time: Where they reach with expectation to altering of government, do thou bend all thy force, policy and means of service, to the defence of this estate: Where they pray for change, specially of Queens, do thou pray for the long and happy continuance of her highness reign: Where they hide rebellious stomachs, do thou and thy Children show true and faithful hearts: Where they desire, that her Majesty and her Council may be deceived, with flattering & erroneous pretence of policy, and colour of clemency, that under the shadow they may lurk, and be nourished as serpent in bosom, do thou pray to God to give judgement to discern them, to search the bottom of their treasons, that they may be shaken out, & used as dangerous vipers: Where their trust is in the Pope, and popish treasons and conspiracies, let thy confidence be in God and his providence, not shrinking from the same with thy best courage and prudence: Where they will not stick to use all subtle undermines, and will not lose the vantage of times, that they may one day triumph in cruel violence, do thou pray, that on this part be used all good policies, that Gods offered means and good opportunity be not refused and overslipped, that God rend not the Kingdom from his anointed, for sparing of his enemies: but that it may long flourish in the hands of his most noble and virtuous handmaid, our most excellent and gracious Sovereign Lady. Thus is it evident by reasons and examples, what hearts Papists bear to her Majesty.  
The third Conclusion, that such English Papists are traitors to the Realm of England, etc. hath received two 
The third conclusion proving English papists, traitors to the Realm of England.  proves already: the one in the general treasons of all Papists to all Realms, wherein England and English Papists are included, the other in their traitorous minds to the queens majesties person and dignity, which is the highest treason that can be to the Realm of England. Yet are there some other particular doings more specially to enforce it, namely the experience that hath been, of their casting away the care of their Country, and all other natural affections: to the end with all immanity, and outrageous unnatural cruelty, to torment English Christians, and to subject the Realm to foreign power, for their false religions sake. I am assured there are enough, and too many that can remember, both that they have read in credible Histories, and seen in lamentable experience: how the Papists have showed themselves so addicted to their 
The Papists reverence to their Pope, hath made them careless of their Prince and Country.  superstition, and so captived to an undue reverence of their tyrannous Pope, that they have for it rejected the care of Country, and of those to whom natural duty bound them.  
It is certain, that that English man which can be contented for Papistry, to raise or favour rebellion in our Country: to join in conspiracy with Strangers, to help to invade and spoil our Country: to convey the Crown of our Country to a foreigner: to agree with them in faction, that offer our Country to prey, spoil and conquest: to submit his faith to that Potentate, that hath accursed and given our Country, their souls to the Devil, and their bodies, lands and possessions to them that can catch them: to believe or favour them, that spread all vile dishonours against our Country: to like well of his doings, and to hold that he doth no more than he lawfully may do, which being an Alien, a foreign Bishop, shall take upon him to extend his curse to the Prince of our Country, and all the people thereof, and that he hath power to discharge the Subjects of the Realm from their faith and allegiance, and hath authority to bind their obedience to whom he will, and is able to give Heaven to rebels, that shall venture their lives in wasting and 
Such an one as alloweth of all these wicked causes, must needs be a traitor to his Country.  destroying our Country: He, I say, that can yield his consent to these doings and thinkings, must needs be a Traitor to his Country. And such a one is every such English Papist as I have described, and can be none other if he hold the Pope for a true teacher, and have good opinion of the Pope's doctrine and examples.  
That clemency and gentleness cannot reclaim them from traitorous minds, while they continue in Papistry, 
Clemency cannot win a Papist while he continueth a Papist: special examples for England to remember.  is as plain and as true a form of speech: as if a man should say, they must needs be traitors, so long as they remain full of treason, for treason and Papistry are unseparable while they be kept under, even as cruelty and Papistry are unseparable when they are gotten above. Surely, he that regardeth not the highest duty, will never regard the meanest. The duty of the love or fear of God, cannot hold a Papist from blasphemy against God. The duty of faith and allegiance to his Prince, cannot keep a Papist from treason to his Prince. The duty of dear love to his natural Country, cannot withdraw a Papist from assenting to, yea, and procuring the spoil, destruction, bondage, and alienation of his Country, as I have already proved. The duty of kind and natural pity, cannot stay a Papist from murdering the feeble sex, nor the silly tender infancy, nor reverend eldest age. The duty of familiarity in youth, of friendship in graver years, of continual society during all the life passed, with heaps of mutual commodities, cannot pull back a Papist from immanity of Sacrificing his dearest friends. The duty of honour of Children to Parents, or love of Parents to Children, removeth not a Papist from unnatural cruelty. The duty of entire love and fellowship between man and wife, holdeth no place in the heart of a Papist. No duty of kindred, no estimation of Learning and Virtue, no good respect, that moveth good men to love and compassion, once toucheth a stubborn Papist.  
All these duties we have seen broken, yea, neglected 
All duties of love, kindred and nature broken by Papists.  and thrown away by Papists. And is there hope that clemency can so far win them, as to hold them in truth to the Prince, from whom they receive it: if opportunity serve to bring them out of her danger, or her Highness into their danger, which God forbid? But let us see a little of their thankfulness. Did ever those Papists, whose lives were saved by good Bishop Cranmers' 
Example of the Papists thankfulness to Bishop Cranmer.  means, who were brought up, who were defended, who were advanced, who were shielded from harm and peril by him: once requite him with one drop of kindness? And yet they spoke him fair in his prosperity. Availed the great liberality of King Henry the eight, to raise up any kind remembrance in Papists, that were great in Queen Mary's days: to stay them 
Example of the Papists kindness toward her Majesty, for the great liberality of her most noble Father.  from the assenting to the captivity and danger, and seeking the blood of his most noble Daughter, our most gracious Sovereign Lady? And yet during King Henry's reign, they showed a serviceable face: as if they would have spent their bloods, to keep wrong from him and his, and did serve against Papistry itself, till their treason and Papistry was ripe to be advanced. A number like examples of their gentleness and kindness might be alleged, but because I would be brief, these few shall serve at this time.  
Of like truth it is, that Papistry being an Heresy, or rather a bondle made up of an infinite number of Heresies: must needs have the property of Heresy, to flourish 
Papistry increaseth and flourisheth by lenity.  with indulgence and lenity. We see the like example in the sect of Arrians, which under heretical Emperors exceedingly increased: and being once condemned and restrained by punishment, hath worn away to a few. So far as King Henry the eight went in reforming Religion, which was to abolish the primacy of Rome out of this Realm (a noble conquest) with certain gross Idolatries: did not the severity of his Laws, the awe of his person, and the dread of due execution, so hold down those parts of Papistry which he suppressed, that they durst not once show themselves in his days? And yet in the same time, the grievous law of six Articles made against God's truth, and sinisterly procured by the Popish Clergy, nor yet the earnest inquiry, nor cruel executing of it by Bishops and other, could hold down the truth of the Gospel: but that it broke out more and more upon them.  
The reason is, that Papistry and Christian truth have 
Christian truth respecteth Heaven, and Papistry the world.  two several ends: truth respecteth Heaven, and Papistry the world. Whereby their adventures and enterprises are commonly divers: the Papist dare boldly set upon any mischief, where he hath hope to advance his falsehood: the Christian dare constantly abide any torment, to give witness of God's truth. And such quality of God's truth have the ancient Fathers described, when one of them calleth the blood of Martyrs: The water to water God's Garden, an other saith: That they increase with cutting down, and other in other manner have expressed the same meaning.  
But now being under a Christian Prince in days of rest (blessed be almighty God, and long preserved be her Majesty the instrument of it) as it is not meet that God's Church, after julian the Apostates manner, be persecuted to make it increase, but holden down with good discipline for manners, that it grow not wild and run into wantonness: so is not the Church of the Devil to be maintained and multiplied with indulgence, winking and slackness of correction, but with good severity to be restrained, that it grow not to such rankness, as to choke the true Church in deed. Mercy may have her excess, 
Too much clemency may be great cruelty.  and clemency may be great cruelty, when it overfloweth to the good men's danger.  
The other Conclusions that follow, have great difference from these whereof I have made some explication, yet have I not made so large an explication, as truth is well and easily able to furnish, neither can I so well make it, as the expedience of the cause asketh, to give the vantage of eloquence to the goodness of the matter, to help to draw it into credit, and effect of well moving. But being as it is, rude and true, great cunning and fineness is the less needful: where those (for whom it is intended) are so wise, as it is far more easy for naked troth to inform them, then for any gay speech to leads them.  
As for the other Conclusions that follow: I neither have nor will wade so far in them, because they are matters of consultation and meditation. The effect thereof, which is the safe preservation of the queens royal Majesty and the Realm, the avoiding of dangers that threaten the same, the establishing of assuredness, boldness, courage, and freedom of her highness most good councillors and Subjects, the taking advantage of opportunity and occasions, the weeding out of deceivers and underminers, the defence of her majesties honour and dignity, the means to answer their charge toward God, and namely, in dealing with men as they be affectioned to or against God.  
The effect I say of these other Conclusions, I know do continually busy her Majesty and her most honourable Counsellors, in thinking on them, and providing for them: therefore it shall no further occupy me and other mean Subjects, then in prayer and readiness to serve, as her Majesty and her Council shall see fit to employ us. It shall suffice me, and so ought it to content all other, to know as we do know, what a wise Prince we have, what good Council she hath chosen, how well they have governed, what fruit we have had of it: so as nothing is left to us, but to give thanks, to beware that our sins give not the occasion of loss and change, to serve dutifully, and to pray devoutly.   

The Conclusion.  
THus have I England briefly collected such matters here together, as if thou héedfullie mark, thou mayst make great profit of them. And in truth great need thou hast to be careful of them, for Papists were never bolder, nor treason put more in practice, than it hath been of late days.  
Remember that cruel murder in France at the marriage, when the famous Admiral Shatilion, was so unnaturally murdered. Remember the late and horrible murder of the noble Prince of Orange: and let these teach thee to be more circumspect to that dangerous brood.  
I could wade into further matters, as to tell thee of many other crimes and offences, which thou hast marvelous need to look unto: but because I intended this present purpose in this Watchwoord, I refer the rest to my other Book called the Court of Conscience, which 
A Book called the Court of Conscience, which I intend (God aiding me) to publish very shortly.  thou shalt shortly receive from me. And I dare awarrant thee, that thou never readst not such a Book in all thy life, both for the circumstances of the matter, and the worthiness of the whole in general: but till it come, that thou thyself mayst judge of it, I will briefly desire thee to join in prayer with me, for the good success of all happiness, that may please God to send thee.  
Let us pray, that we may see when those that shall wrest or procure to change Law, to erect the courage of any dangerous viper to such ends, or to any aspiring hope of preventing and undermining, under what colour, name, pretence, or otherwise, or to the safeguard of their persons that have so attempted: that they may be declared, and executed as enemies to the state, and to the queens safety.  
Let us pray, that we may see such Laws provided for her highness preservation, and the same so executed 
God grant that such Papists as be enemies to her Majesty and the Realm, may be quickly cut off.  without restraint or slackness for any respect: as the hope of Papists, such as be enemies to God, the Queen and the Realm, may (if they repent not) be cut off for ever.  
Let us pray to live to see, that none may have place, Office, or access into her majesties Court nor household, no, nor once into her presence: that shall not be known to favour both God and her, so far as any circumspection or policy can provide it.  
Let us pray, that no Office of dignity, Law or justice, may be in their hands, who do not favour the Law of God, and acknowledge her majesties right, that is head of Law and justice in this Realm.  
Let us pray, that her Majesty and her Council may have such particular knowledge of men, that those that have well deserved, yea, have and yet do hazard their lives in her majesties defence, and have utterly wasted themselves and their friends in her majesties service, yet remaining unrecompensed: that they may not lose the benefit of their labours, that no evil tongue may raise slander to their discredit, but that they may according to their good service, be effectually and duly rewarded, the only mean to encourage other to earnest taking of pains.  
Let us pray, that all such as be her majesties enemies may be weakened, and her faithful friends and well-willers strengthened: that all advantages may be used for her safety, and all subtle devices and practices may be supplanted.  
We trust it will be so, for God hath not drawn these late mischiefs into light for nothing. But before all things, let us pray to GOD to send us true repentance, more joyful and effectual receiving of his Gospel, and more and more virtuous ensuing it: lest as we lost our best King with living ill, we lose our best Queen with living worse.  
And that therewith it may please him, to direct all the doings of her Majesty and her Council, to proceed in their good advancing his glory, and preservation of the estate: which without jealous circumspection, for preserving the queens most royal person, can not be done. And that such good means and provisions, as GOD offereth to that end, be not refused or neglected: which were to tempt GOD, to forsake his cause, to betray our noble Prince, and to give away, or rather cast away the Realm.  
These be the daily and nightly prayers of good Subjects, and while we busy ourselves with these prayers, we do, after our principal confidence in God's goodness, rest ourselves upon the trust of her Majesty, and her most honourable Council: for whom we praise God, and to them we refer the guiding of us and ours, ready to follow them when we are commanded, with the uttermost of our power and peril, knowing how they spare not their uttermost endeavour and peril, with sustaining the most unpleasant life (God knows) that may be, for our sakes, for our quiet, profits and defence.   
FINIS.  
God long preserve and bless our Queen Elizabeth, and confound all her enemies. Honos alit Artes. A. M.