VISIONS, OR, hells kingdom, And the world's Follies and Abuses,  
Strangely displayed by R. C. of the Inner Temple Gent.  
Being the first fruits of a reformed life.  
Longè vadit, qui nunquam redit.  
LONDON, Printed by E. G. for Simon Burton at his Shop next the Mitre tavern, within Algate, 1640.   

TO THE RIGHT worshipful Sr. Thomas Metham, OF Metham in the County of York Knight.  
Richard Croshawe dedicates these his first Fruits, as the real intentions of a reformed life.   

To the Students Of the inns of Court.  
GEentlemen, Matter is better than words. If you be noble, worthy, and ingenuous, these many precipitations I here discover, need no other effect than honest pity: but if these endowments of the mind be excluded, either by the rashness of Youth (an ill tutor); or by violent prodigality and licentiousness, (a worse Disciple); My desire is, that my serious lightness, may arrow-like pierce your Consciences, to an unfeigned repentance. The more you are contristate, the less will be your sorrow; for to lament, is here to rejoice: and such joy I wish may be accumulated on you, and on all those, that either love goodness, or are estranged from it. The reason why I present this book in chief to you (after the interessed Dedication) is, because being myself, of one of your Societies, my observation and experiment hath made me conjecture, that these two should never be unwelcome, Advice and Delight. The first whereof, if my book do not instruct, yet mine own deviation (still known to many) may, seeing there is no stability in bubbling pleasure, nor no true content without a religious return; so you have both precept and example. And as for the latter, it is better wished than described. Reade and judge.  
The Honourer of your virtues, Richard Croshaw.   

To the Reader.  
REader, I am no libeler, what is here written, is written for thy instruction, and not to detract from any man's worth. For I ingenuously protest, there is not any one in particular living, that I intend either by this or that: what I have done was for mine own recreation, and had not been now published, but by entreaty. Excuse therefore the errors in it, since they proceed from him that is full of error; and if thou meanest to live contentedly, learn to live well; so shalt thou find, that Hell is here only described, that thou Mayst avoid it; and the way set down of the Damned, to show thee the path of Paradise.  
Richard Croshawe.   

The several Visions.  

1. The Possessed Sergeant.  
2. Death and her Dominion.  
3. The last judgement.  
4. The fool Amorous.  
5. The World in its Interior.  
6. Hell.    

Errata.  
pag. lin. Error correct. 2 7 fomer former 16 2 shirts skirts 21 8 parching patching 47 17 Entered Suited 102 6  not   

VISIONS.  
The first Vision: OR, The Possessed Sergeant.  
VArious and inconstant is the life of Man: sometimes lifted up with the height of prosperity, where he not only sees, but enjoys all the pleasures of the world. And by and by cast down into the gulf of misery, where he finds such bitter fruits in the punishment of his ill governed ways, that there remains not so much as a taste or relish of his fomer felicity. Thus hath God weighed out these two conditions, that none should presume there is any real happiness but in him only, nor any obscure adversity, but by repentance may bring us unto him. Such Meditations as these, was I mastered by, in a remote and far country: when I could not choose but fall into a serious contemplation of mine own vanity; heartily desiring, that I might find out some way, whereby I might lessen those calamities, which by custom were almost grown hereditary. Night grew on, and sleep seeing me utterly destitute, became herself a Friend; and in slumber made me conceive I was an Actor in this Vision.  

Methought.  
Curiosity that stirs up all men to things rare and new, invited me one Morning to behold the several embellishments of a famous Monastery; whither I was no sooner come, but I found the door shut, and began in myself to censure the people's devotion, who to that hour of day had neglected pious duties. Yet lest opinion might deceive me, I inquired of one that stood at the Porch, what the reason might be, of that unaccustomed privacy? who telling me that the religious men had excluded all others, that they themselves might better endeavour to expel the spirit out of one possessed, increased my desire to gain admission: which I had no sooner ruminated on, but I espied one of the same Covent, with whom I had formerly gained some acquaintance, and to whom with some earnestness I manifested the obligements I should owe him, if he would admit me a sight so unfrequent. As courtesy generally exceeds in all of that Brotherhood, so in him it found a seat of eminency, who staying not to dispute, or by feigned compliments to declare the difficulty, made signs with a pleasing gesture, that I should follow him; and with a Key, which he took from his Girdle, opening a private door, granted my request before he promised it. But when I was got in, I could not tell whether with more safety, I should postulate a dismission back, or resolve to stay, so full of horror was the Object. In the chancel on the floor lay a man of a most hideous aspect, his apparel torn, hands bound, eyes staring, mouth extended, and feet chained to the rail about the Altar: sometimes starting up, and again voluntarily flinging himself to the ground, yelling, shrieking, and howling, as if the universal doom of punishment for sin had been laid on him only. This and the fear I was strucken in, made me partaker of his unexpressible torture, and to cry out, O Lord! what is this? The Exorcist a holy Father, that was diligent about him, made answer, It was a man possessed with an evil spirit, and had hardly spoke, but the tormentor took the word. The Conjurer, said he, lies; this is not a Man possessed by a devil, but a devil possessed by a Man. Discoursers take heed what you speak, for in questions and answers, you rather bewray your ignorance, than knowledge. Understand that we Devils are not (as I am now) in the Bodies of Sergeants, but by constraint, and against our wills; and therefore if you will name me as you ought, you must say that I am a devil sergeantized, and not a Sergeant diabolized: which you may easily credit by this, because all men speed better with us than with them, since we fly the cross, (Fixed on the top of the Mace,) but they make use of it as an instrument whereby to do mischief. And though I must confess there is a great correspondency between their Offices and ours, in that they procure other men's hurt, as well as we; and as we desire there may be none but wicked and guilty men in the World, so do they also: Yet theirs is with a most eager greediness, pricked forward through an hellish disposition, and an avaricious desire of gain; but ours only for company sake. And in this also they are more to be blamed than we, because their evil turns to the destruction of their own sex and kind, which we abhor. For we are Angels though deprived of Grace, and had never been converted into Devils, had we not striven to be equal with God. But Sergeants turn Sergeants to be the vilest of men, and greatly delight in the miserable confusion of others; so that you all strive in vain to present comfort to this Wretch, since there is no man so godly, that stays not in his talons if he once can catch him, and they and we may well be both of an Order, were it not that they are Devils clothed and shod, but we naked and barefooted, (as you are,) leading an hard life in Hell.  
Though we were all transported with wonder to hear these diabolical speeches, yet did they not at all hinder the friar from continuing his exorcisms; who hoping to still the Spirit, cast holy Water on him: but that was rather a motive to further tattle. Think not, said he, your blessing of Water can make it available, I tell you it rather hurts than benefits, there being nothing that Sergeants hate more than it. For men have so often revenged themselves in this kind, in heat flinging them into Rivers, to cool their appetite: in cold, into Privy baths, to warm their malice, that it is grown abominable to them: who cannot any way be accounted good Christians, because both their Office and Name is derived from moors and Barbarians, Nations that never made a Conscience of any thing.  
Wound not yourselves by belief, (said the religious man to the assembly) the devil was ever a liar, and if we suffer him, will rail and murmur against Justice herself; because by correcting the world, and chastising vice, she snatches away many souls from him, which otherwise would have been ensnared. Dotard (said the inmate) dispute not with me, for I know more than thou dost; but if thou wilt do me a pleasure indeed, banish me this sergeant's body: for I am a devil of quality, and when I return to Hell shall be soundly swaggered at, for haunting so bad a Companion. Through the compassion I have of those bitter torments thou makest him suffer, by God's grace, (said the Divine) I will do it, and not for the foolish words thou speakest. Wherefore dost thou so much afflict him? Can I do less? (answered he) when at this very instant, his spirit is contending with mine, who should be the greater devil, he or I.  
The Fraternity regarded not his malicious answers, but I whose fear, began to be less, and inquisitiveness more, took great delight to hear him prattle. And turning to the reverend man, desired, that (if possible so much licence might be given to a stranger) he would partly hinder the poor man's indurement, and permit me to demand some few questions of the intruder; which it might be would not only benefit myself, but accrue to the good of some of mine own countrymen, if at any time I should make them familiar with the passages. This was no sooner spoke, and condescended to, but the Spirit forcing the Body to look upon me, and laughing at me, began. We have Kindred and friends (said he) both in Court and City; when there are Poets, they do us many good offices, by the Trade of Venery and Macquerellage. And though their wits can clothe their fancies in a higher strain than you do, yet you all, tending ro the same centre, and embracing the same science, are bound to give your attendance to maintain the honour of those of your Profession, whom we suffer in Hell. Are there any Poets in Hell, said I? Yes many, (replied he,) the way is so easy, and they do so swarm, that we must be fain to enlarge their abode, and there is nothing in the world so delightful as to see a Poet in the first year of his freshmanship there, who most commonly brings letters of favour, directed to our superior Magistrates, thinking to find Charon, Cerberus', Rhadamant, Aeacus, and Minos.  
But what pains do they suffer (said I, feeling myself galled?) Many (replied he) and those such as are proper to the Trade. Some are tormented in hearing the works of others rehearsed, (the punishment also of musicians) which they envy, yet cannot mend. There are some of a thousand years' continuance in Hell, and yet have not made an end of reading the stanzas they composed of incontinency. Others that rub the palms of their hands, scratch their foreheads, beat their brows, and tear their hair, and yet cannot resolve whether is most proper, disaffected or unaffected, depainted or unpainted, because the word comes from painting. There are others, that seeking out a consonancy, as it were blindfolded, walk raving to and fro, biting their nails and eating their bandstrings, till they fall into holes and pits, from whence we have a great deal of trouble to pluck them out. But those that endure most, and are worst entreated are comic Poets, justly punished for making a rape upon the honour of so many Queens, Princesses, and great persons in England, by their unequal matches of them; and in their plays for displaying so many invectives against men of esteem. With these of the land, water Poets are not planted, but because they have used so many inventions, fictions, and lies, to cozen the World, and get money, are put among proctors and solicitors, as amongst people that live by that exercise: for you must understand, that as there is great conveniency, so there is very good order kept in Hell. The other day there came thronging to us of all sorts; he that first entered, was a conceited fellow, a Drawer, one that by devising patterns for wastcoates, &c. got no small favour; whom when we thought to quarter with projectors, we remember that he said, besides his draught he could counterfeit to the life, therefore he was settled with Scriveners and Attournyes, as among them that can draw and counterfeit upon all occasions. Another called himself a Cutter; he was asked whether of Stone or Marble? but saying he was of their kind who cut off men's purses, and at Masques Ladies shirts, we put him with detractors and evil speakers, as amongst those that rend the garments of another's good fame. Blind men that thought to shroud themselves among Poets, were thrust among Lovers, because of the sympathy. And Vintners with water-bearers, because of the mixture. Fools were chambered up with Astrologers and alchemists. Murderers with physicians. Ill dealing Tradesmen with Judas. evil Magistrates and Ministers with the bad thief. Citizens with Shufflers. And Brokers with Jews. And to conclude, there is not any commonwealth so well ordered as Hell, where every one hath a retirement according to his quality.  
I think you spoke of Lovers, (said I) and because I am as well sensible of that infirmity as of Poetry, I would willingly know if there be many? Love being a great spot of oil which spreads all abroad, (added he) thou needest not doubt but Hell is well thronged with the amorous. There are of divers sorts. Some that are Lovers of themselves, others of their money, others of their speeches, others of their works, and some of their wives, and of that kind there are very few, because women are of such malignant natures, that by their disloyalty, imperfections, and searching wits, they give every day new subject to their Husbands to repent of their conjunction and alliance with them. All Lovers are delightful to see, and full of mirth, if there may be said to be any in Hell. Some you would take for a milliner's shop, they are so decked with points, knots, and ribbens, of all sorts, which they call favours. Others for a periwig maker's stall, they are so hung with bracelets, amulets, and locks of all hairs and all colours. You would take some for Messengers to a great City, laden with packets and Epistles to and from their Mistresses; which they call Love-letters, but we Inflamers, because they serve to inflame and burn the bearers. And others for Jesters, the posture of their wooing is so ridiculous, who once loved, but never obtained. These are condemned for short shooting, yet won the game; and those for kisses that never betrayed. Under them, in a dirty and stifling hole, carpeted with beasts horns, were those that you call Cuckolds; Creatures that at the first began to bustle with us, objecting a double injury, if they should now again be punished, that in the world had already received disgrace sufficient: the horn grafted upon their forehead, being first taken from the Devils own brow, who in the shape of a man made the first Cuckold. But when we told them that the devil never wore horns, but that they were derived from the Goat and ram, emblems of man's libidinousness, and the name of Cuckold from the cuckoo, a bird that having plundered the issue of an innocent, maketh her hatch her viperous brood, or else from men's own indulgence and womens' impudence; they became the most peaceable of all our pensionaries, and are armed with incomparable patience: for having been heretofore strengthened and fortified in the unfaithful dealings of their wicked wives, they are never angry at any thing that is done unto them. In which respect, and our own pity, we have advanced them into one of our fairest upper lodgings: and in their Dungeon have placed such as are lovers of age and old women, who are strongly chained; for devils themselves do not hold their honour safe, amongst people whose taste is so depraved.  
But having satisfied your curiosity, I must tell you that we devils are much offended, in that you mortals so slovenly besmear and disfigure us. Sometimes painting us with claws and talons, yet are we neither. Eagles nor Griffins. Then gluing tails to our posteriours, as if we needed flie-flappes, or the world should mistake us for Hernes. And then parching on our chins, wenny, and welky beards, to metamorphose us into turkeycocks and Cocks combs; yet there be devils amongst us that may well be taken for Scholars and Philosophers. But you had best mend this, if you covet a good fire when you come to visit us. We asked the other day that Painter whom you call Michael Angelo (though improperly) why he presented us in his judgement with so many beasts hoofs, deformed bodies, wry necks, and crabbed faces? His answer was, That having never seen any of our Tribe, and not crediting there were any, he had made that piece after his own fancy, and not out of any ends of malice. But ignorance did not excuse his sin, for he now finds the reality of that, he would not before believe. We complain also, that in your familiar discourse one with another, you give us unnecessary presents. Behold (Says one) how this devil Tailor hath abused me, How he makes me wait, How he hath stolen from me; Would he were in Hell! You do us a great deal of wrong to wish them there, or to make such comparisons; For we never suffer them to come nigh us but with a great deal of entreaty: because they do already allege the name of inheritance, in that custom is a second Law. And having taken possession of Theft, oftener keeping stuffs demanded of them, than Sabbath's commanded; they enter grumbling and muttering when we do not open the backedoore, and thereby acknowledge them legitimate Children. The devil take it and thee, says another to him and those things that displease him; keep your gifts at home, for of this kind there come more than we fetch, neither do we take all that are given; for we make a conscience of some things: and would not accept of the forward lecher when he says, I would I might be damned to lie with such a Beauty, but that he does enforce us. You bestow likewise on the devil every roguish Page and footboy; but he will have none of them, for know (that for the most part) they are more wicked than devils themselves. Also you give to the devil an Italian, but the devil thanks you with all his heart, yet loves not to be undermined. An Englishman, but he will have none of their new fashions. A Spaniard, but he that knows the tyranny they use in making themselves masters of towns, when once they are permitted entrance; detests their cruelty. And a Frenchman, but the devil's stomach will not serve him, because they are already parboiled; and therefore entreats you to send them to the Great T●rk● to season, and make Eunuchs.  
Here the Spirit became silent; when hearing a noise behind me, made by one who had crept in, and was thrusting to get foremost, I turned about to see who durst be so uncivil in a place so sacred. And perceived it to be a certain Informer, that had been the cause of the undoing of one of my dear associates. Therefore that I might a little vindicate my Friend, I again questioned the possessor. Seeing so many men of divers conditions inhabit your clime, Are there none there of those horseleeches, those plagues to kingdoms, projectors, & c? You are cunning, (said he) Know you not that these Vermin are the natural heirs to damnation, and have their patrimony assigned in perpetual darkness; yet know also that we are upon the point to discard them, for they are grown unthankful, begin to scuffle with us▪ and would willingly lay a Tribute upon the ways to Hell, but because the charge increases daily, and we believe that in process of time the tax will mount so high, that our Agents on Earth will be constrained to forsake their Commerce, (a thing very prejudicial to our commonwealth) we will from henceforth shut our Gates and utterly exclude them. In doing so you may be injurious, (said I) for than they will aim at Heaven. Never fear that, (proceeded he) for that is a traffic they never delighted in. But, I pray you, on whom will they raise these new impositions? If you labour to know all the circumstances, (answered he) bid that fellow draw nigh that stands there (pointing to my Gentleman) for he is of the occupation. At this the Company presently cast their eyes upon him, whereat he was so ashamed, that turning his back, and plucking his hat over his eyes, he slunk away, leaving the bystanders astonished, and me revenged. And when the tumult was appeased, the devil continuing said, Is my Champion absent? I care not greatly, if I supply his place. Understand then, that the Monopolies they would now find out, and the Imposts they would impose and set forward are upon jewels, rings, plate, and precious stones, upon lace, handkerchers, dressings, gorgets, and the nice attire of women, upon coaches that serve for no other purpose but to hurry men to taverns, Theaters, and the assignations of love. Upon excess of apparel, feasts, and stately moveables. Upon playhouses, the schools of blasphemy and obsceneness. And generally upon all other things whatsoever, that serve to enhance the pride of the world, and increase our Empire; which will become utterly desolate, unless some good Magistrate, and our Friend, oppose himself against them. Not so, (I persisted by way of interruption) In this methinks they are very reasonable, seeing that the toleration of such things serve only to pervert good manners, corrupt chastity, stir up riot and prodigality, and utterly ruinate modesty and virtue. But concerning Magistrates of whom thou beginnest to speak, Can it be possible that there are any Judges in Hell? A fine question (replied the devil) Friend, a wicked Judge is the seed that fructifies most for us: 'tis a grain from which we every year receive a thousand doctors, ten thousand proctors. Advocates, and Lawyers; and more than twenty thousand Marshals and Pettifoggers; so that many times when the years are fruitful in cheating and deceit, we have not Garners enough to contain the fruit that comes unto us by the means of corrupt Judges.  
Wilt thou then infer that there is no Justice upon Earth? Yes, (said he) if the story of Astrea be true, didst thou ever hear it? No, harken then, (said the Fiend) and I will tell it. Truth and Justice on a time came together to inhabit the Earth, but found none to entertain them; because one (which was Truth) was naked, and the other severe. In the end after they had wandered up and down, like vagabonds without shelter, Truth was enforced to dwell with one that was dumb, and Justice seeing herself unregarded, and that her name was usurped by Tyrants, resolved to return: yet that she might leave no way unessayed, she retired from Courts, Palaces, and Cities, and traveled into the country, where in Cottages and Villages she rested a while under the simplicity and integrity of the poor inhabitants; from whence Envy (that never left to persecute her) removed her also. Then went she to gentlemen's houses; but being never bred up to lie, when they demanded who she was, answering, I am justice; they drove her from them too, saying, we know not what that is. So that being generally refused, she fled or rather flew up to Heaven, scarce leaving behind so much as the trace of her footsteps. Since when, men remembering her name, attribute that kind of sceptre or Mace unto her, which hath a cross at the top; which although it have got the title, yet sometimes burns the Basis, because that many times through the abuse of it, it helpeth better to steal, than the hooks, false keys, and ladders of thieves. For human covetousness is grown to that height, that all have converted the faculties of their minds and senses, into instruments to commit theft. The Lover, doth he not steal a virgin's honour, with her own consent? The Lawyer, doth he not steal his client's goods, with his knowledge, when he perverts the sense of the Law? The Comedian, doth he not steal his Spectators heart, when harkening unto the Verses he hath conned, he loses time. The Amorous, doth he not steal with his eyes? The Eloquent with his tongue? The powerful with his arms? The valiant, with his hands? The Musician, with his voice and fingers? The Dancer, with his feet? The Physician, with death? The Apothecary, with health and sickness? The chirurgeon, with blood? The ginger with Heaven? and there is no man but steals one way or other, but most of all the Sergeant; who contrary to all these, steals away both his soul and body by wilful relinquishment; for he forsakes them with his eyes, flies from them with his feet, and disavows them with his tongue. And they are most of them so wicked, that we say of them, as you of the Pestilence, Good Lord deliver us.  
I wonder (said I to the Intruder) that thou hast not reckoned Women among thieves, knowing they are of the same mystery? Alas! Speak not of Women, let them alone, I pray you, (said he) for we are so pestered, weary, and troubled with them, that we desire not their remembrance, but to speak truth, if there were not so many in Hell, that would be none of the worst habitation, especially for Winter. Oh, how much they would give to be widows! Since the death of that Witch M●dusa, they do nothing but invent snares, labyrinths, ambuscadoes, and I doubt not but in time will wage war with us for supremacy of knowledge. All the good that is in them, is, that in our conversations they ask no toys and new fangles (as they do of you) for they know we deal not in small wares.  
Of what sort have you most, of beautiful or deformed? We have ten times more of foul, (said he) For though the fair meet easily with Gallants that satisfy their burning desires, yet it sometimes happens, that by continuance of sin they become sated and repent: but the foul wanting this libidinous felicity, (Unless they can purchase it) and maligning others, enter so lank and dried up, that they affright us: for the most part of them are all old, and die grunting like sows, mad that the young ones survive them. I became packhorse the other day to one of threescore and ten, that I took doing a certain exercise against obstructions, whom when I had unloden, she began to complain of the toothache, to infuse conjecture there were some yet left, that she might appear less odious.  
All my demands are untwisted, but this; I pray you tell me if there be any poor in Hell? What do you mean by poor said the devil? I call him poor that possesseth nothing. How understandest thou that, said he? How? Wouldst thou have him condemned that holds nothing of the World, when none are damned but such as covet and enjoy it? Those men that thou speakest of, are not enroled in our books. And wonder not at it, for all things are wanting to them, yea the devils themselves. You are rather devils one towards another, than devils are devils to you. For can there be a more notorious devil than a Flatterer? an envious man? a false friend? a bad Companion? an unmerciful creditor? or a son, brother, or kinsman, that wishes you dead to get your wealth? that seems to weep and bemoan you when you are sick, and yet cares not if the devil had you? All this is wanting to the poor man, he is not flattered, envied, hath no friend, no companion, nor no credit, neither are his children, brethren, or alliance de irous of his dissolution, for any obscure ends, but he is one that lives well, and dies better. And there are some so contented with this manner of life, that they will not change their condition with Kings; because they have liberty to go everywhere, whither they will, in peace and war, free from all charges, impositions, and public services, exempt from all judgements, civil censures, process of Law, and jurisdiction, and in their Consciences are wholly uncorrupted. Moreover, they take no care for the morrow, observing in that the commandment of God. They husband their time well, and can justly value the days of their pilgrimage, in setting before their eyes that death holds in his power all that is past, governs all that is present, and pretends a right to all that is to come. But there is a proverb, that When the devil preaches, the World draws to an end.  
We may truly say that God's hand is in this, said the religious Conjurer. Thou art the Father of lies, yet declarest truths, able to mollify an heart of stone. You men, said the devil, do not imagine that this that I have spoken is for your salvation, deceive not yourselves, 'tis that your pains may be increased, when the time com● that you shall suffer: and that you may not pretend ignorance, and excuse, saying, nobody hath told us. You are all Hypocrites. The greatest part of tears you shed, proceed only out of grief to forsake the world, and not out of any repentance for your sins. And though sin be sometimes displeasing to you, because of your declining into years, or of your corporal indispositions, yet your will hath much a do to be overcome, because it is wicked. Thou art an impostor, said the reverend man. There are at this day many holy souls, whose tears have issue from another fountain; but I see thou seekest to delude us, and it may be it is not the will of God, that thou shouldest be expelled this miserable body; nevertheless I conjure thee by his Almighty Power, not to torment him any more, but to depart.  
The Spirit obeyed, and the devout man addressing his speech to us, Gentlemen (said he) although it was the devil that spoke by the organs of this unhappy man, yet there is some pro it in this discourse to be made by him, that will meditate upon it. Therefore I pray you not to regard from whence these things proceed, but to remember that we often receive health from the hands of our enemies, and from tho● that most hate us. With draw yourselves in the Name of God, to whom I will pray, that this sad and prodigious spectacle may serve to amend your lives, and convert you unto him. And here my Slumber left me.    

VISIONS.  
The second Vision: OR, Death and her Dominion.  
SAad thoughts are natural to abject men, and gather together in multitudes to assault one unhappy. Certain Enemies they are, uncertain Friends, not much to be blamed, since they do not derogate from the strain of the world, fickle, and unstable; now rising, now declining, and set, before they attain the Meridian. Cogitations of this mould made me lament mine own depression, and turn over the leaves of some few books, that by no rhetoric could maintain any more than one way to be borne, but without study could find a thousand ways to die. Here I found the ambition of the proud, and the covetousness of the rich, satisfied with so little, that I began to hate all indirect dealings, and mind the advice was given me. mortal (said one) Why dost thou afflict thyself, and labour for uncertain riches? Is not Death the end of all things? which many times comes upon thee before they are obtained, or at best well disposed: embrace that, by dying well, and thou canst not wish for those blessings shall be denied. Wherefore dost thou so much fear Death, (said another)? What now remains of the pleasures of thy passed life, and of thy first years, which were so sweet and delightful? Seest thou not that all is vanished, and lost in times swiftness? Prepare thyself therefore, and take heart, put on alacrity of spirit, and settle thy soul in peace and tranquillity. Remember (saith the Scripture) Man that is borne of a Woman is of short days, and full of trouble, he cometh forth like a flower, and is cut down, he fleeth also as a shadow, and continueth not.  
Dizzied with these Contemplations, I fell asleep over my instructors and do verily believe, it was rather caused by some supernatural predominancy, than natural disposition; because my faculties, were free and at liberty from outward molestations, and busied in beholding this following Comedy, to which my fancy served as a Stage for unusual actors.  
I saw divers physicians enter, riding on large foot-cloths, ominous in this, that they resembled Hearses for the dead. Their train was broken and disordered, for some went a footpace, and others on the spur. Their faces were contracted, got more by custom than age, in often frowning on their patient's urine, which prognosticated to the sick, more terror than redress. And these were followed by young Practitients, who by their frequent conversation with the Horses, more than with the doctors became easily graduated.  
Apothecaries came next, armed with mortars, pestles, and doses, whose outside bore the ascribed cures, and inside poisons. Their Shops were the physician's Storehouse, and the afflict Purgatory. Their Recipes began with receive, but included to take, an ounce for themselves, and a scruple for the dying man. And all their compositions were disguised with such strange nominations, as if they had been Sorcery: cursed inquisitors against life, done in policy, that their mistake of one thing for another, might not be discerned.  
chirurgeons with some unwillingness followed, because they conceited precedency; the Etymology of their name signifying, a physician that worketh by hand. Their pockets were filled with pincers, cauters, files, saws, knives▪ and lancets; and their cries of, cut, tear, dismember, burn, infused such fear, that my bones were consulting how they might serve as sheaths to hide one another.  
Then mountebanks (whose papers speak better than they) who with more impudence and less skill, would cure all Diseases with one Antidote, upon which there was no great disspute. Nor of the barber's Surgery, (who came next) because it either kills or heals. These were more finical than their forerunners, yet at proudest are but shavers of Excrements. Their greatest Artillery were scissors, Razers, and basons, and some sharp lotions, the which were allayed, by the delicious music of their Fiddles and citherns.  
Seeing them followed by men wearing chains cross their breasts, and admiring what state they usherd; I easily lost that conjecture, when I beheld the links to be teeth, and the bearers tooth-drawer's; mouth-devasters, and drawers on of old age: not shaming to wish all men's teeth upon their thread, rather than in the place of their birth.  
After these came men of divers habits, not unfitly entered, because all great talkers. Some were called Swimmers, by reason that in speaking they spread their arms to and fro, as if they were swimming. others' imitators, in that they counterfeited the looks and gestures of those they spoke of. And others sowers of dissension, because they moved their eyes this way and that way (not stirring the head) to mark by stealth the actions of those they meant to betray.  
And last of all Dissemblers, a presumptuous Generation, the world's true plague; who thrust into all assemblies, and either by craft, flattery, or base submission, having got the secrets of men, convert them to the Relaters prejudice, and their own mercenary profit. These were called the extract of all the importunate, and because the poison of Serpents lies in the tail, came in the rear as most poisonous.  
Upon this, I began to consider, to what use, this great troop and confusion might tend: when behold a certain Apparition drew near, that seemed to be of the Feminine kind, of light gate and loose proportion. She was laden with crowns, garlands, sceptres, sikles, sheephookes, buskins, wooden shoes, tires, mitres, bonnets, embroidery, silk, skins, wool▪ gold, lead, diamonds, shells, pearl, and flint. One of her eyes was shut, and the other open. She was clothed in all colours, on one side appearing young, and on the other old. Now going apace, and anon slowly, at one time seeming afar off, and by and by at hand And at all times so inconstant, that I could not have leisure to fancy who she might be. Yet was I not frighted, but rather incited to laughter, remembering an Italian Comedy I had lately seen, in which Halequin feigning to come from the other World, had a baggage not much dissonant; and therefore, after I had stood a great while musing, I stepped to her, and demanded who she was? I am Death, said she. Death! (replied I, my heart failing me) and whither go you Mistress Death? I come to fetch thee (said she). Alas! Must I then die? No, but thou must go alive with me, and make a journey into the kingdom of the dead; for since many departed have rose to see the living, it is no injustice that one living should descend to visit them, and that the dead be heard. Hast thou not heard that I have power to execute my sovereign decrees? Disrobe and follow me. Ha, sighed I, in a cold sweat, Will you not let me wear my clothes? There is no need, (said she) apparel will but hinder you, besides I ease all men of their luggage, that they may walk with more agility. There was no contending, therefore I went after her; but to tell you through what byways she led me is impossible, for I was transported beyond apprehension. As we were going, I do not, (said I) for all this, see by any outward appearance that you are Death, because she is painted without flesh, consisting of nothing but dry bones. Those Image-makers are fools, answered she, and want invention; for bones are not Death, but the remainder of the Living. You Mortals know her not, or else she would appear in the visages of every one of you, and in every several member lie depicted. To die, is to finish life, and to be borne, is to begin to die; and the truest Image of Death is a man's own self, and not a breathless trunk or bare anatomy.  
But I pray you, Why do you place detractors, and Tell-tales, in the Van next to your own person? because (said she) there are more that die by the importunity of great speakers, than by diseases, and more that are hastened to ruin by the conversation of flatterers and intermedlers, than by physician's practice: though in the general these are my greatest friends, and best servants, and to this purpose thou must understand, that most in the world grow sick through excess and superfluity of humours; but die, by the means and diligence of him that administers. So that when you are asked of what Disease such an one is dead, you must not answer, Of a fever, pleurisy, Purple, or Pestilence, but he is dead by the hand of such a physician that hath been well paid, for it is requisite that every Trade should live.  
As we grew thus familiar, we entered into a Vault, where the day's reflex was betwixt light and obscurity. In the entry whereof, upon one side I saw three Statues armed and stirring, of human shape, yet hard to be distinguished, and on the other an hideous Monster, that continually fought with them, one against three, and three to one. Knowest thou, said Death, what these are? Oh no! said I, and I trust in God I never shall. And yet so it is, said she, that since thy Nativity thou hast never kept other Company. These are the three capital Enemies to the soul, the World, the Flesh, and the devil: look if they do not resemble one another so near, that they are scarcely discerned asunder; so that if thou entertain but one of them, thou Mayst be assured thou hast them all three. An aspiring man, thinks he hath all the World, and hath got the devil; a lascivious man believes he hath the Flesh, but finds it the devil; and so do the rest. But what is she (said I) with so many several faces, that fights against them? Answer was made, The devil Money; who hath bred a controversy, upholding, that the rest have nothing to do where she is, and that she alone is all the three. First, she grounds her dispute with the World, upon those proverbs men ordinarily use, that There is no other World but Money, that he that hath no Money had better be out of the World, that We banish him the World from whom we take Money, and that All things give place to Money. Against the second Enemy, she saith, Money is the Flesh, witness Whores and courtesans. And against the third, she makes use of your speeches also, that Nothing can be done without that devil Money, that Love doth much, but Money doth all, and that, That which Money cannot do the devil cannot effect. Whatsoever the claim is, said I, The devil Money needs no coadjutors, seeing she defends her Cause so well.  
We went forward to a place where on one hand I perceived Hell, and on the other Judgement, and did heedfully consider Hell, because it was a thing very strange. What lookest thou on, said Death? On Hell, said I, and methinks by the aspect, I have seen it elsewhere. Where, (said she)? I have seen it in the emulation of great ones, in the consciences of them that withhold ●nother man's goods, in wicked undertakings, in revenges, in the desires of the luxurious, and in the pride of corporations. But as for Justice, I am glad to see it in its purity, and had rather have Death with Judgement, than Life without it.  
At last we descended into a spacious Cave, circled in on all sides with very high rampires, and filled with much people: and here Death bade me stay, for this was the place of her tribunal. The hangings that adorned the walls were words of Woe, alas, grief, sighs, ill tidings, and lamentations, as certainly, believed, as unregarded. Here womens' tears were deceitful to themselves, and unprevalent with others. There sorrow was excluded from comfort, and cares were only vigilant, being converted into Vermin to gnaw Kings and Princes, whose usurped honours made them to suspect all men. He ere Envy had put on a mourning habit, and kept a continued fast, it being not in her power to hurt. And there Ingratitude was kneading a kind of Dough, mixed of Pride and Ambition, of which now she framed Men, now Devils. All quivered with curses and imprecations, of which demanding the reason? one that was by answered, O Destiny! would you not have curses here, where there are so many matchmakers, Lawyers, and imprecators? Do you not know that there is nothing more frequently spoken of in your Region, than Cursed be he that married us, Cursed the hour I first beheld thee, and Ill h●p betide him that first brought us together. Cursed be the Lawyer who counselled me to follow this Cause that hath undone me. And in other matters, cursed that I am, I would I might never come into Heaven, if I said this or that; and The devil take me, if ever he spoke to me of any such thing. But what is all this to the purpose, said I? and what have these to do with death's Judgement Hall? Ignorant man! said the other, If there were not so many contrivers of weddings, would there be so many dead and desperate men? Is there any thing destroys so quickly, as the cavils and circumventions of entangling Lawyers? And doth there any d● sooner, than he that precipitates himself? No certainly, therefore thou must conclude that these are the principal Pillars of this Dominion, and of the imperial throne thou seest there.  
At this, I lift up mine eyes, and saw Death sit in a chair, environed with many little Deaths, as The Death of Love, the Death of Hunger, the Death of fear, and the Death of Laughter, each bearing a several ensign and device The Death of Love had very little brains, and for Attendants had Pyramus and Thisbe, Hero and Leander, with divers other Lovers, ready to expire under her Sickle, but by the rare miracles of the interessed rose again. About The Death of Hunger were many Usurers, who having accumulated great wealth, deprive themselves of necessary means; letting their bodies famish and their souls die, which they had long before converted into Gold and Silver. The Death of fear was richest, and most stately, hemmed in with Tyrants and mighty men; such as fly from all, thought none pursueth, and afford the world no good, but this, that by their sudden self destruction through fear, suspicion, and distrust, they revenge themselves the innocent, whom they had before condemned and slain. The Death of Laughter was the last, rounded with people of quick apprehension, but late repentance, that live, as if there were no Justice to fear, and die, as if there were no mercy to be hoped. And these are they, that when it is said, Restore what you have taken, answer, You make me die of Laughter. Consider that you are old, that sin finds not any thing more to consume in you; forsake this Woman that you unlawfully embrace. Regard how the devil mocks you, who are now no more unto him but an improfitable booty. You make me die of Laughter. ask God forgiveness, and turn unto him, for you have already one foot in the grave. You make me die of Laughter, I was never more jocund, never more lusty. And these are they that being sick, when they are exhorted to rely upon God, and order their estate by a religious will, answer, that they have been many times in the same case: but find themselves in the other World, before they can be persuaded they are going thither. Here I could not contain myself, from this use, Lord! thou hast given but one life and are there so many Deaths? Grant, I beseech thee, that if I return again, I may change my condition, and begin to live well, that I may die lamented.  
I had scarce uttered these words, but I heard the voice crying, The Dead, the Dead, the Dead; and instantly saw the Earth begin to open, and the bodies of men and women, half buried in their winding-sheets, to arise; who ranked themselves in order, observing a silent taciturnity. Take each his turn, said Death, when behold one of them came near me with such fury, that I began to fear the bastinado. Hellish worldlings, said he, What would you with me? Why let you me not alone, dead, and at rest? What have I done unto you? I that without offending in part, am defamed in all, and made guilty of those things I am altogether ignorant of? And what are you, said I, whom I neither know nor understand? I am, said he, the unhappy Abraham Ninny, that have been here many years, and yet you do nothing but mock and deride me. When any folly or extravagancy is committed, Oh! 'tis an Abraham, say you presently, Did you ever hear the like? What a ninnihammer he is grown? Why, a very fool would not have done it? But know, that in acting and speaking follies, you yourselves are all Abraham's, worse than you suppose me to have been. And for proof, Tell me, Have I made any ridiculous wills as you men, by which you command others to do those things, which you would never do yourselves? Have I rebelled against the potent, or hoped to renew my youth? Have I strived to reform Nature, and contested with her in colouring and powdering my hair? Have I sworn untruths? Am I faithless in those things which I have promised, as you are daily? Have I been a slave to my money? or played away my estate? Have I consumed it in banquets? or given it to courtesans? Did I suffer myself to be Mastered by my Wife? or believe that I might rely on that man, who at my persuasion betrayed his friend that trusted in him? Did I marry myself to be revenged of an inconstant Mistress? or credit that there might be built any sure foundation on the slippery wheel of Fortune? Have I esteemed them happy that consume their days in Princes Courts, for the vanity of a momentary look? or taken delight in heretical Controversies, to be accounted witty? Have I boasted unto people that are below me? or believed in Witches and framers of Nativities? If Abraham have done no such foppery, of what folly can you accuse him? Poor Ninny! rash and insolent that you are, wherefore do you impute your disorders unto me, that never learned any thing but patience; and was of so innocent and natural a life, that it added an impossibility to wrong any man.  
As we were thus discoursing, another that walked very gravely, came to me, and with a commanding eye, said, look this way. What is your ladyship, said I, you that speak so imperiously, and presume to be respected, in a place where all are equal? I am (said she) Queen Richard, whom if thou knowest not, yet thou hast often heard of; for you that live are so devilish, that the dead cannot be excepted from your malice. If you see an old wall, an old hat, a threadbare cloak, ragged coat, or a woman that hath a treasury of years upon her, you say instantly, that they are as old as Queen Richard. But you are mad, my time was better than yours: and to justify what I say, hear but yourselves talk. Now if a Mother thinks to instruct her Daughter in modesty, and say, Daughter, it is fitting that a Virgin that will conserve her honour, should always keep herself within the bounds of shamefastness, and look downward: her Daughter will arrogantly answer, Mother, that was a custom in Queen Richard's time. 'Tis for men to look upon the Earth, as upon the matter from which they were formed; and for women to look upon men, as being extracted from them. If a Father say to his son, son, fear God, keep his commandments, pray unto him when you rise, and when you go to bed; eat not without blessing, and rise not without giving thanks▪ play not, swear not: he will allege the same author, Father, that was the fashion in Queen Richard's days. So that, he is derided that rules himself according to holy instructions, and men are sooner known by their oaths than beards.  
But leaving this, that you may understand the dead are not all so locked up in eternal quiet, but that their desires have freedom of enquiry, Is there any news stirring? How stands the state of Europe? The Spanish Fleets go well enough, said I▪ but of late years the Hollanders begin to take rude tribute from them. And the Genoes' have by way of bank encroached so far on his Principalities, that (like Leeches) they not only stop the veins, but draw the mines dry. Son, said she, as long as the King of Spain shall have the Hollanders for Enemies, the way to the Indies will never be free. And as for the Genoes', they are likely to become a stately Senate, (like their City) If the Canker enter not their magazine of store, and immoderate lust, convert all in Bordello. But, how goes the credit of the world? There is much to be said thereupon, said I, you have touched a string that makes a noise indeed: every man hath his credit in himself, every one is esteemed, and every one doth all things in point of honour.  
There is credit in all estates, yet she shifts places every day, and is by this time seven stages under ground. Those that steal, say it is to maintain their credit, and that they had rather rob than beg. Those that beg, say it is to keep their credit, and that they had rather beg than steal. Those that bear false witness and those that murder say the same thing. And all men call credit that which tends most to their profit, and (presuming on their own worth and estimation) undervalue and defame the rest. All is now perverted. Lying is counted virtue, wiles and fetches are the chiefest qualities of a Cavalier, and insolency and impudence are the badges of gentility. Heretofore the islanders were men of credit, and kept themselves in a moderation of all things; but now there are ill tongues abroad, that say, Savages may instruct them, and that their abstinence is more for covetousness than sobriety.  
counsellors and Lawyers, How do they thrive? As nests of Ants, that from one breed a million. Justice that in ancient days went naked, as representing sincerity, is now so swaddled with paper, as if she were a nest of Spices. And whereas heretofore we had but one book of laws, there are now a thousand, the cause of so many squabblings & divisions, being every one's private exposition. If you go to some Lawyers, let your cause be what it will, they will assure you good proceeding, and tell you, 'tis a fair quaere, and wants nothing but study, but that at that instant they are something busy, about a case between John Ash and John Okes, so that they cannot mind it. Yet if you will call some other time, they will revise it better. And after you have well paid them, (for money is the spirit of the work, and the true light of their understanding) you shall reap nothing but protraction, and may without difficulty instruct yourself the event. Happy are we (said the Queen) that are free from such disturbances! but I believe there are many good and honest men amongst them, that may be Antipodes to those thou describest.  
Doth Venice stand yet? How? Stand? Yes (said I) it stands with a vengeance: for that is a commonwealth that maintains it self, beyond all conscience. But if they should restore what they unjustly detain from others, none need to suspect their poverty. I must needs say it is a pleasant State, a city founded in the Water, a treasury and freedom in the air, and a dukedom whom many dread. But 'tis withal, the channel and sink of Monarchies, by which they purge the filth of Peace and war. The Turk suffers them to molest Christians, and Christians permit them to injure the Turk, and they tolerate one another, to mischief both the one and the other; so that by others' dissension, they maintain their own vastness, which will swell them up, till their great ambition burst them.  
But methinks thou speakest not of England, (said the Interrogatresse) Canst thou be unmindful of thine own soil? 'tis not for want of duty, replied I, but because it is too full of splendour for me to comment on without admiration. Piety in the Prince, Justice in the Magistrate, Religion in the Minister, and Obedience in the Subject, having so absolute glory, that not only her bordering Nations congratulate her Peace, but all the World stands gazing at her opulency, who is the sparkling Diamond in the universal Ring. I am glad (answered Queen Richard) that goodness and fidelity have so strong a Tower, and hope Justice will hereafter restrain those calumnies, are undeservedly thrown upon me. This said, she withdrew.  
The next that appeared was a grey-haired man, with a large beard hanging down to his girdle; whom I took to be one of those wild ones, that we see in the kingdom of painting. And he seeing me stare, said, My art tells me that you are desirous of my knowledge, it is Erra-pater that speaks to you, Is it possible (said I) that that Gallimaufry of prophecies, which run up and down under your name, should be your work? Boldface! (answered he) Darest thou so rashly offend the secrets of the gods, and the Fates interpreter? Inhuman Worldlings! who despise that learning that is above your reach: find you any Gallimaufries in my Predictions? Can you be so brutish, that you cannot understand the sense of these words?  
On things to come revolving oft;  
I find that Earth, nor Water soft,  
Shall aught produce, or fructify;  
But what shall please Divinity.  
Animals! benumbed and hardened in vice. If this prophecy should be fulfilled, Could there be a greater good desired? If that which pleases God, and that, that he would have, were done; Justice would rule the World, Innocency and Sanctity would dwell with us, and we should no more obey the devil, nor love those things which most please him; as vain delights, oppression, and money in its excellency, but a vagabond of the nature of women that love to be gadding. But to my presages.  
If Parties be arightly sped,  
The married shall be married.  
I could not abstain from laughter, which he seeing, mastiff (said he) that barkest at all, I find that thou hast not teeth hard enough, to break the bone, & find out the marrow of this prophecy: therefore listen, or I shall make you, since you were brought hither to that end. Think you that all that are wedded are married? You deceive yourselves by the just half; know there be many married that live as in single life, and many of a single life that live as if they were married. And there be many men that marry and die bachelors from their Wives, and many Women that die Virgins from their Husbands: because it is the fashion of the time.  
I do protest (said I) that we have done ill to wrong those enthusiasms of spirit, by our misinterpretation, but you must pardon it, because we wanted you to unriddle them; they being truer than we took them for, and of more efficacy expounded by your mouth. Command therefore (said he) that henceforth a more reverend esteem be made of my oraculous writings; whereof I will unfold one more: 
Many Women shall become Mothers;  
And the Children that they do bear  
Shall be the Children of their Fathers.   
Can you except against this? I tell you there are many married men, that if they either would or could make an exact search, would find those Children to be none of theirs, that call them Father. A woman's belly is very subject to caution; and Children being got in obscurity, it is very hard to find out the Labourers: we must believe the deposition of the Wife, and many times the supposition. How many people do you think there will be at the latter day, who hold now great ranks in the world, that will be constrained to acknowledge for their Fathers, Pages of their households, followers, Physicians, Gentlemen Ushers, and may be Coachmen that have been well lashed fort? How many Fathers will then find themselves without Posterity, and true successors beyond credulity. You shall see all this when you come thither, for in that place Truth will appear more clear than the sun.  
Having spoken, Erra Pater left me, with an answer hanging on my tongue, and vanished. When looking back, I perceived a lean, pale, lank, melancholy body, apparelled all in white. Take pity upon me, (said he) and if thou art a Christian, be charitable; deliver me from the injuries of impudent and ignorant men, who ever molest me, and put me where they please themselves. Here he cast himself at my feet, and tearing his hair, wept like a child. Unhappy Creature, said I, What art thou? I am one, ancient and respected, (said he) whose name and fame the world abuses, by many false allegations. My name is Alter, or Another. You must needs have heard of me, for there is nothing that Another speaks not. Those that cannot allege a reason themselves, say always, as saith Another, & yet I never speak nor open my lips. The Latins call me Quidam, and make use of me to fill up the lines and periods in books. I entreat you therefore to do me the favour when you go back, to relate that you have seen Alter, clothed in white, who writes nothing, says nothing, nor hath ever done any thing; and that all that cite and quote me lie: to the end that henceforth by your mediation, I may no more be the idiots author, and the fool's proof. In brawls and quarrels they call me Some body, in difficulties, I know not well who, in the seats of Orators A certain author, and in Citizens houses nobody, and all to disguise the name of poor Alter, and accuse him of their impertinencies, who is your suppliant for redress. This I promised, and he departed, and gave place to Another.  
A man (He was) of aspect good enough, if he had not had a pair of horns upon his head, and made signs as if he would have beat me; at which being nothing daunted, Who brought hither (said I) this Signior Cornuto? which words were hardly uttered, but behold us both together by the ears, till the dead parted us. I do not disallow of the quality, said he, because there are greater men than myself that wear the horn, but yet methinks the world might speak something of them, and not all of me. What have I done, that many others have not done a thousand times more? The horn, hath it found its end in me? or have I rebelled against my superiors with it? Have I enhanced the price of lanterns, inkhorns, or posthornes? and is there not enough to make knifehandles, and shooing-hornes? Wherefore then do your scoundrel Poets afflict me? And of what do you condemn me, when there was never beast of my condition more peaceable? They shall not leave thee yet, said I, but torment thee more, such a scope of matter I will deliver when I return. But I will hinder thee, said he, and thereupon we fell again to buffets. In this agitation of spirit I awaked, and found myself in a trembling sweat, as weary as if the combat had been real. Then calling to mind all that I had seen, I converted it to my particular benefit; judging, that there is no jesting among the dead, and that those people, that are out of all partiality and abuse of the World, are more fit to give wholesome counsel than ridiculous advice.   

VISIONS.  
The third Vision: OR, The Last judgement.  
MAny are the opinions of men concerning dreams, and many do conclude a faith to be given them, in these days; which I will neither contradict, nor approve; yet I count it not unlawful to regulate a transitory life by them, especially if they be of the nature of my last, which thus happened unto me.  
One Evening, after I had long examined myself, by that glass of Solomon, Ecclesiastes, sleep laid his leaden mace upon me at the end, and this Verse, God will bring every work into Judgement, with every secret thing, whether it be good or evil. When,  

Methought,  
I saw a most beautiful Youth fly in the air, and blow a Trumpet; the forcing of his breath much lessening the sweetness of his natural complexion: yet did the sound thereof find obedience in Marble, and in the dormitories of the dead: for instantly all the Earth began to move, and give place to bones, which sought one another. Those which had been Generals, captains, Lieutenants, and soldiers, came first out of their sepulchers, provoked with courage, as if the trump had been a signal to war. Covetous men issued amazed, believing that it was for pillage. And they that had given themselves over to wantonness, conceived it a summons to some Masque or interlude. These things I knew by their several gestures, but saw not one amongst them all, that thought it was to Judgement. Some souls drew near with horror and disdain of their own Bodies, and others would not approach at all, seeing them so deformed. Some wanted an arm, others a thigh, and others their heads, yet did they not long seek them, giving me therein a subject whereby to admire the Power of God, in that being mixed together, none took the legs or arms of their Neighbours.  
When all the congregated understood that it was the great Day of judgement, it was a notable thing to see, how that the Luxurious would not find their eyes, to the end that they might not bear witness against them. Detractors would not acknowledge their tongues, for the same cause; and thieves made use of their feet, to fly from their hands. Here I heard a Miser ask another (who because he was embalmed, stayed for his entrails, which were coffined far off from that place) if all that were buried should rise again, and if the bags that he had interred should rise with him? And there I saw a troop of Cutpurses, whofled from their ears (which were offered them) fearing they should hear what they desired not.  
These things I might well behold, being mounted on a bank of earth; but hearing a cry at my feet which bade me descend, I obeyed, and many handsome women put forth their heads, calling me ill bred, and unmannerd, for not giving more respect unto them: (for in Hell also they have this folly to believe that men ought to respect them) They appeared very jocund to see themselves of such exquisite frame, and were not ashamed of their nakedness. But when they knew it was the Day of Wrath, and their beauty began to accuse them within, they put themselves in the way of the valley, with a slow and lingering pace. One that had been thrice wedded, went inventing excuses for all her Husbands, to whom severally she had deeply sworn, never to remarry: and another said, that she had forgot her night-clothes, thinking that they would stay for her at some place of meeting. In this place physicians were thrust forward, by Patients whom they had dispatched, by anticipation of time. And in that a Judge stood washing his hands, from the innocent blood, that by bribery lay upon him. Divers devils driving before them Vintners and tailors, a Lawyer peeping out of his tomb, asked whither they went? and being told, to the righteous judgement of God, to which they were all called; he strove to sink himself deeper into his Grave, saying, there is so much way already made, if I must descend lower. A Taverner sweating extremely, a devil told him, that he did well to sweat out his water, for he would burn the better: and this was one of those, that kept a tavern outwardly, but a stews within. A bow-legged tailor went insulting, I have neither wine nor water to answer for, for I ever eat more than I drink, but why do they say I steal? which another hearing told him, that he did a great deal of wrong so to despise the Trade. In their walk they met with highway robbers, whom the devils caught and put amongst them, saying, that they might well bear them company, because they were (a la mode) wild tailors. And after these went Folly compassed on all sides with Poets, Musicians, and Lovers and with all kinds of people besides, that were ignorant of that Day, who in troops came to the Vale, where silence was imposed on all.  
The Throne was decked by the hand of the Almighty, and by the same Miracle, God was adorned with himself, with mercy for the Elect, and wrath for the Reprobate. The sun, Moon, and stars were his footstool; the wind was hushed, the waters calm, the Earth still, and timorous, ready to be entranced for the love she bore her Children; and all things in general very pensive and heavy. The Just were busied in giving thanks to God, and praising his goodness, and the sinful were inventing stratagems, to moderate their chastisements. Angels witnessed both by their gate and phisnomy, the care they had to comfort and welcome the Godly. And devils were ready to unfold their accusations; and least that any should overslip them, they had set the ten commandments to keep the door, which was of that straightness, that the leanest and most mortified bodies were fain to leave some part of their flesh behind them, the entrance was so narrow.  
The Examination began at Adam, who was required to give account for an Apple; which Judas minding, and the astonishment he was in, cried out, Woe is me, what account shall I make, that have sold the Lord of Life, and the lamb of God? Then passed the first Fathers, and after the New Testament, the Apostles, who were all seated near the chair of Majesty. And it was a thing worthy of note to see, that there was no respect of persons, but that Beggars and Kings were mixed together, when they went nigh the Divine Presence. Herod and Pilate appeared, and perceiving the wrath of God (though encompassed with Glory) Pilate said, he that will comply with the times, deserves no less; and Herod, I cannot go into Paradise, for there those Innocents I slew will cry out against me, but why do I chaffer? Hell is a common inn. A man of a fiery look started up, and stretching out his arm, said, See there my attestation of mastership! Every one wondering, asked the Porter who he was? but he overhearing, answered, I am an approved Master of Defence, and these papers are Certificates of my tried valour. Letting them fall, a devil stooped to gather them up, but the Fencer was more nimble than he, who leaped backward, and drawing his rapier, said, This steel cannot be● equalled, and if you either budge or speak, I will quickly show that I am my art's master. All the Company began to smile, and he was commanded, seeing that he had but instructed an art, which was one of the principal causes of so many Duels and slaughters, that he should go into Hell by a perpendicular line: but he answering, that he was no Mathematician, a devil gave him a byblow and cast him into the pit. Then came Treasurers and Stewards, who demanding an Advocate, a devil answered, behold Judas, a discarded and outcast Apostle, let him speak, for he hath exercised both professions; which they hearing, went to the other side, and saw another devil, that had not hands enough to turn over the leaves, were written against them.  
Leave all these informations, said the stoutest of them, and let us compound; Ha, ha, said he, that read the indictment, do you demand composition? Then 'tis a sign your game is nought. This they understanding, and that no offers would be accepted, took the way of the Fencer, because they had been as good men of their hands as he, and better. They being gone, lo an unfortunate pastry Cook, whose adverse party began to accuse him; which he seeing, and finding by proof, that he had put more kinds of meat into his pies and pasties, than there were beasts in Noah's ark (there being neither Rats, Mice, nor Flies) turned his back, and leaving the word in the devil's mouth, went to see if the place were hot. Then came Philosophers, who made syllogisms against their salvation. And Poets, who would have persuaded the omnipotent, that he was that Jupiter whom they had so often nominated in their works. Virgil alleged his Sicelides Musae, saying, that it was the figure of the Nativity: and Orpheus as the most ancient Poet, stood up to speak for all; but a devil accusing him, for having instructed the way of making love to mankind, he was commanded to enter once more into Hell, to try if he could get out again; and obeying served as a Guide to his Companions. A rich Usurer knocked, and being asked what he would have, was told that the ten commandments kept the door, and that he had never kept them. In that which concerns keeping, said he, it is impossible, I have swerved; the first commandment saith, Thou shalt have none other gods but me▪ and I think I have observed it, for I have kept Gold (the worldling's god) so secret, that neither others nor myself might make it the object of their veneration. The second, Thou shalt not make to thyself any graven Image, and I have kept ingots and wedges these many years, that there might neither stamp nor image come upon them. The third, Thou shalt not take the Name of the Lord thy God in vain, and I have never sworn in vain, but always for some great interest. The fourth, Remember that thou keep holy the Sabbath day, and I have all the week long provided hiding places for my treasure, that on that day it might not molest my rest. Honour thy Father and thy Mother, I have always greatly reverenced them, in that I have given them the pre-eminence, especially in all bad actions. Thou shalt do no murder, and I did never scarce eat, because that to feed is to kill hunger. Thou shalt not commit adultery▪ I never did it, for women in that way are not tractable without money; but if you will let me come in (said he, who began to be weary with so many interrogatories) let us not lose time, for he was so great an enemy to loss, that he would husband time itself; but saying this, he was led where he deserved. Divers thieves followed, some of them so active, that they saved themselves in leaping from the ladder. Lawyers coveted the like good fortune, but they were set to go through the eye of a needle. Scriveners denied their name, saying, they were Secretaries, but proctors stood to it, saying, they were the procurers of others good; but there was no defence for either of them. One devil seeing a Physician, an Apothecary, a Surgeon, and a Barber coming, gave them thanks for most of the Company, sen● thither by their means; and commanded some of his vassals to usher them down, that they might assay if they could cure the burning fever. Another perceiving one to peer out of an hole where he had hid himself, asked what he was? who replied, an empiric. What! Saltinbanke, mountebank, and my Friend, said the devil! It were better for thee to be upon some scaffold at some corner of a Street, to pass away the time with idler persons; but since thou art come, thou shalt not want preferment: go thy ways into that quarter, and see if thy balsam be efficacious against scalding; so he went on his friend's word. The plea of Taverne-keepers was, that they had quenched the thirst of many poor persons; and of tailors, that they had clothed many; but this hindered their dispatch. Then Bankers demanded treaty, but their Sentence was pronounced, and bills of exchange were given them, to be paid out of Pluto's Coffers, where there is no bottom. And afterwards place was given to Women, who approached with pleasing and smiling countenances, endeavouring by those means to prevail: but as soon as they saw the horrid aspects of devils, they began to shrike out, and antedate their condemnation. Bailiffs, Sergeants, Marshals, and many more were yet to be judged, who being called, said they would willingly suffer, without any further trial.  
The last was an ginger, crying out, that they were mistaken in the calculation of years, and that it yet could not be the Day of judgement; because the Heaven of Saturn, and the moving Heaven had not finished their course: but the devil rebuking him, said, I wonder that among so many Heavens which you have made in your life-time, you were never so provident as to erect one for yourself! for which default, you must now be transported into Hell, which was accordingly executed.  
Upon this the judgement ended, the Throne was taken up, the shadows fled to their place, the air was filled with mild Zephirs, the Earth was enameled with flowers, and the Heavens were clear and translucent; and I was in my bed, more joyful than sorrowful, that I was not yet dead: therefore that I might make use of my dream, I undertook a constant resolve, to keep a strict watch over my Conscience; that I may have a defensive armour, when there are no more delays to hope for, and the sovereign Judge shall call me before himself.    

VISIONS.  
The fourth Vision: OR, The fool Amorous.  
Upon a Winter-January morning, about fo● a clock, when cold and sloth kept me buried under my rug, better at ease than on a bier, consulting with my pillow upon an amorous fancy that came in my mind. I found myself quite strayed from my former meditations, & beheld the spirit of Fallacy, which presented to my imagination Loves inconstancy; verily thinking I heard this Verse.  Ala●! Coridon, what folly possesses thee? 
Afterward not knowing which way I was led, I came into a meadow a thousand times more pleasant than those which are ordinarily mentioned in the inventions of Poets; where looking about, I espied two delightful Rivers, that in their labyrinthian Meanders watered it. The waters of the one were bitter, of the other sweet, yet they mingled together with so peaceable a purling murmur, that they charmed the ears of those that heard them, and qualified affections anxiety. These in their sportive motion directed me to a goodly fair Palace, of admirable structure, seated in the midst of the Field. The portals were of Dorian work, richly inlaid, and on the pedestal, bases, pillars, cornishes, chapters, architraves, friezes, and other adjuncts, there were engraved all the trophies and triumphs of that great (yet little) God: which with many other devices added radiancy of lustre to the work. Over the chapter there was this inscription in letters of Gold, cut upon black Marble.  
Blessed and most happy is this place,  
In ever youthful Love;  
Who crownes the noble and the base,  
As their demerits move.  
The diversity of stones and colours delighted admirably the sight: the portal was spacious, and the door perpetually open, to let those freely enter whom singularity brought; and the place of Porter was allotted to a woman, who seemed to be of the nymphall race; her visage was celestial, lineaments amiable, and body perfectly straight, she was clothed in cloth of Gold and Silver, glittering with pearls and stones of price, and was an enchantment to all that beheld her, leading captive their iron hearts in chains of adamant: and though she was in all things like her name Beauty, yet did she not insult nor deny entrance to any, if they paid for their passage a good look; of whose favours I made use of and went into the first Court, where I found abundance of all Sexes, but so changed from their pristine grace that the very memory of it was forgotten; instead whereof they had put on love's livery, dejected eyes, yellow resemblance, and mournful representations.  
Their talk reflected not upon the faith that is to be kept with friends, loyalty to masters, nor respect to blood; but their kindred were mediators to their own alliance. Servants became mistresses, and mistresses servants. Women contracted amity with their husband's acquaintance, and Husbands grew intimate with their Wives companions.  
On this medley of affections did I stare, when I perceived a creature not perfectly man, nor rightly woman, but partaking of both; who went and came through the multitude, having on a loose garment, spotted over with eyes and ears; which marking, and the authority she exercised, I demanded her condition, and what she did? to which two questions she thus answered me. I am jealousy, the greatest cause of the increase of these sick and mad persons, which thou seest; nevertheless I am not engaged to heal, but to chastise them. Question not me of any other particulars, for it is a miracle when I speak truth; because I lessen from myself in the delivery, being nothing but sleights and devices: but go to that aged man that walks there, for he is the overseer of the Palace, and (may be) will instruct you (though slowly) in all that you require.  
I did so, and found him to be Time, of whom I entreated a sight of the rooms and chambers, and that I might visit some fools of my acquaintance, whom I conjectured were there. He told me he was busy in curing the diseased, yet notwithstanding showed me all things, in giving me liberty to walk about. Passing the first Court, I entered into the maiden's chamber, (for the women were separated) and these were kept in the strongest hold, where the walls were thickest, because of their vehement and violent passions: here I took notice of one that lamented, being jealous of a married woman; and of another that was carried with burning affection to a youngster, yet durst not declare it. How one writ letters full of ambiguities, where there were more lines dashed out than good words; and another studied with her glass how to smile and simper, and act the fictive humours, she meant to play her Lover: that eat oatmeal, plaster, jet, and small coal, to obtain a pale colour: and this entreated her servant, that in the mornings he would give her a Serenade of music at her chamber window, which implied, that he should publish to all the neighbours that he was her enamoured; this held love letters which she let fly through windows, and thrust under doors: and that protested to her friend her heart was his, desiring him not to require any thing more; which he promised, and the fool believed. Some would marry, to love with more liber●y: and others desired to be with men already married, and these were ranked in the number of incurable.  
Having considered all, I durst not stay any longer, knowing by experience that a man runs great hazard among such allurers: and that he that gets clearest off, is often condemned to slavery in the bonds of marriage, which is an engagement to repentance all his life long, without other hope of redemption than by Death: for there is no order to redeem those that are captives in the chains of wedlock, as there is for them that are under the hands of the Turk. I went therefore to the Married Women: and saw many of them whom their Husbands kept tied and cloistered up, to hinder the execution of their designs, that broke both Prison and chains, and became m●dder than before. Some fawned on and flattered their Husbands, when they had most mind to abuse them: and some stole their money to pay their confederates, yet never took heed to the account till the estate was ended: others went to hear Sermons, and on pilgrimages of Devotion, but it was to get the grace and mercy of their holy brethren, by sacrificing to Venus: and others went to Baths, sooner to pollute than cleanse themselves. Such an one recompensed her husband's sins in the same kind, verifying the adage, that None take greater delight to be revenged, than a woman when she avenges herself on her Husband with advantage. Such another went to see a Play, that she might be spoken with between the Acts. And this last affected her Coach so well, that she was scarce ever out of it; of which desiring a reason, 'tis because (said she) I love to be shaken. Among this honourable conventicle those were not seen, whose Husbands were employed in war, Embassages, Merchandise, or foreign affairs; because that they depending upon none other in that time, did contain themselves within the bounds of chastity, and as people exorcised, were not reputed members of this commonwealth.  
The next partition was of widows, armed with experience and knowledge, who counterfeited modesty and piety, yet adhered to their desires. One with her right eye wept for her dead Husband, and with her left laughed to her living Friend; another was more muffled and vailed with passion than mourning, receiving joyfully the present, and forgetting the absent. And others laid wagers, whose veils and hukes became them best, endeavouring to convert that sad attire into allurement. Those that were old, imitated the actions of youth: and those that were more young, made use of the time, that they might not repent in their age. There were some adored, and some adorers, who being devout, were loves penitents, and in that respect condemned to fast from meats they most longed after, for the carnal have also their Lent. Many outwardly laid on modest colours, though inwardly impudent enough: and many were very insolent, and having heretofore been Masters, would now make use of that imperious power; so that the physician had much ado with them.  
All these infirmities proceed only through idleness, for where that is, lust finds easy access. There were some Women who accepted more letters of disburse, than a Banquer of Genoa or a German hoarder, upon credit of their insatiable desires. Some would not be seen by him that was the visitor, but by the unexpected: and those that were most subtle, made use of their Physicians. One spoke to an ginger, to cast a figure for her future life; and another desired of a magician secrets whereby she might be beloved. And how many did I see, that would have seemed as ridiculous as Esop's Crow, if their periwigs and frontlets of hair had been plucked off! but, at last I got from them, shaking my head, and went to the men's quarter, on the other side of the building.  
At my arrival I observed, that the bachelors greatest folly was obstinacy, for every one knew his errors, but would not amend. O, that I saw many Gallants brave in apparel, that had not so much as one penny! Many Roarers that had heretofore boasted and bragged of Lady's favours, that would have been very glad, if I had invited them to dinner! And how many were there that had no bread, and yet felt the temptations of the flesh? Some counterfeited the amiable, wearing perfumes and long locks not remembering that women take always the superiority of beauty upon themselves; and others, by their vaunts of war would pass for duelists, yet forgot that women are ever fearful, and quake at the sight of a weapon; others at midnight walked the round about their mistress's lodgings; and others became amorous through infection, conversing with them that were so. This man on Sundays went from Church to Church, to feed his eye with variety, and that went from house to house to exercise his wit. Some complained of more than they suffered, and others endured without opening their mouths. Those whose vanity despised things beneath them, pretended to Subjects so high, that they lost their desire; and those that were distrustful of their own worth (though otherwise people of judgement and understanding) applied themselves only to mean objects. Husbands were enchained, yet not less mad; for some forsook their Wives, and followed their neighbours; and others took for friends their Wives friends, and for Gossips the Mothers of their Children.  
Widowers practised in torments past, searched rest where it was to be found, loving as short a while, and as long as they pleased; here being amorous, there jealous; and that which I found admirable in them all, was that they confessed themselves fools, yet left not to be so. Men that were most discreet, related their good fortune to those that published their disgraces; whilst shallow Dolts were commended for secrecy. Some flattered the chambermaid, to get access to the Mistress, and others suborned the Mistress to overcome her. These had their pockets stuffed with amorous lines, sealed with silk, and endorsed with gold; and had likewise bracelets, hat bands, knots, and favours, whereof they made survey: and these were the husband's friends, and voluntarily employed themselves to ease his cares, lending him Horses, Coach, and money; whilst they hurried his Wife abroad to Gardens, plays, and Banquets. There were divers wooers of widows, some that were beloved, and some not; some that let themselves easily be taken, and some that caught others. And there were many, that made their conquests with love and money, and these carried often the victory, because they fought with double arms; yet sometimes they got the foil, and had not whereby to resist poverty.  
Having at leisure surveyed all, I went back into the first Court; where▪ Time thrust amongst the Company that increased daily, and by his industry recovered some. jealousy punished those, who were most confident in the subject they loved. Memory rubbed over old sores, understanding was hid in a dark hole, and Reason had her eyes plucked out. And having contemplated the diversity of Dissimulation, I saw a little wicket open, where Ingratitude and Infidelity gave liberty of escape to some few: therefore to enjoy the present occasion, I doubled my pace, to get out with the first. When my Boy came and drew the curtain, telling me that it was broad day; hereupon I awaked, somewhat dulled at my long stay, yet comforted in this, that I have found it by others, and mine own experience, that Love is nothing but mere and natural folly.   

VISIONS.  
The fifth Vision: OR, The World in its Interior.  
DEsire the Pilgrim of the mind, that hates Rest, and delights in nothing but Motion, agitated my Spirit from one passion to another; till it made me admire, how so much good, such abundance of evil, should proceed out of one Heart! and gave way to mine eyes to shut up my senses, and open my fancy to apprehend the consequent.  
As in a glass, so the World appeared unto me, populated only with one City of exceeding vastness; in which as I wandered, I marked the uniformity of the Building, and the neatness of the Streets; but exposed myself withal to the derision of the Inhabiters, and as if it had been a Maze, could not find the way out. Now I got into the Lane of Choler, and followed Quarrels through scars and Blood; and anon into the Street of Gluttony, gourmandizing and drinking; and not long after into the marketplace, where all Vices were compact.  
In this distraction I was called unto by an Old man, of mean and tattered attire, but of awful port, and judicious respect. What are you, Good man, said I? Do you envy my content? Let me alone; you Old men are always troubling the mirth of Young people, yet would not willingly leave pleasures yourselves. You are going out of the World, and I am but newly come into it, give me (therefore) leave to rejoice and be merry; the venerable man (dissembling his grief) began to smile; son, said he, 'tis not to hinder nor malign thy desires, but through pity that I strive to with hold thee. Knowest thou what the value of an hour is? or the price of a day? and hast thou examined the worth of time? I believe not, seeing thou employest it so ill; that fugitive hours steal away, and rob thee of so precious a jewel. What have the days that are already past said unto thee? Have they promised thee to come again, when thou hast need of them? No certainly. Alas! they go and return no more! and passing, look backwards with smiles and jeers on those that let them slip sounprofitably. Therefore make use of time while thou hast it, lest when thou wishest most for it, time will be no more.  
I must acknowledge, grave Father, said I, that your advice is excellent: but, what are you? and what do you here? If my torn Garments, and Poverty (answered he) tell you not that I am an honest man, I must speak myself, a Lover of Truth; my name is The world's Disabuser; these rents come from such as make show to help me, and these blows and bruises are presents from many, to whom I have given no greater offence than a visit. What madness! the greatest part of the World say, that they desire and love me, yet when I discover the abuse of it, some despair, others curse, and all despise me. Now child, if thou wilt see the World, come with me, I will carry thee into the chief Street, where all things are beheld in open view, and show thee how it is in its Interior parts; for thou seest nothing here, but the shell and appearance. What is that principal Streets name (said I) whither you will carry me? It is called (said he) hypocrisy, 'tis the Street where the World both begins and ends, and very great, for there is not any one whatsoever, but hath either an house, or chamber at least in it. Some being constant dwellers, and others termers, there being divers kinds of Hypocrites. See you that Fellow that stands there, he was a ploughman's son, now a Gentleman. Would you take that man for a tailor? yet he is one, though clothed like a Knight: and hypocrisy is so general an infirmity that it is found amongst all trades. The cobbler will be a Translator, the Cooper calls himself Bacchus' tailor, because he makes clothing for Wine, and the Horse-coursers stile is, Squire of the Field; the Alehouse is called an Academy; the Hangman a member of Justice; a mountebank an able man; the Dicernimble; a tavern, a bank; the Vintner, a Banker, or Master of Accounts; stews, houses of Commerce; Whores, courtesans, bawds, devout Women; Cuckolds, patient men; lust, friendship; Usury, economy; Deceit, Gallantery; lying, dexterity; and malice, gentleness of spirit; cowardice, peace; rashness, valour; a Page, a child of Honour; a lackey, a Gentleman on foot; a pickthank, a Courtier; black, brown; and an ass is called a doctor. But there is nothing here that appears in its own form, or that hath the proper name; but all the World is full of lies, in what part soever you examine it. And if you note it well, you shall see that wrath, gluttony, pride, covetousness, luxury, sloth, murder, and a thousand others' sins, proceed only out of simulation: and that of all sinners, there is none so presumptuous as the Hypocrite; in as much as other bad livers sin only against God, but he sins against God, and with God also, since he makes him an instrument of his sin; and for this cause our Saviour, willing to show how amongst all others they were hateful to him, after he had given many affirmative precepts to his Disciples, he gave them one negative, saying, be not sad like Hypocrites: and as he taught them by many Parables, and Comparisons, what they should be, now lights, now salt, sometimes like Guests, sometimes as the talon; so also he instructs them what they should not be, be not like unto Hypocrites; to certify unto them, that not being Hypocrites, they should not be wicked, for the Hypocrite is wicked in all things.  
Upon this discourse we came into the great Street, where we took an eminent place, to register all that passed. The first remarkable thing was a funeral Convoy, composed of a large retinue of Kindred and Friends, that followed the grief and heaviness of a Widower in close mourning, whose head hung down, and gate was of that slowness, as if he had not had strength sufficient to carry him to Church without a supporter: which compassionating, O happy Woman! (said I) that hast found a husband, whose love and faithfulness, went hand in hand with thee in thy life time, and now follows thee to thy Grave! And happy man, who hast found so many Friends, that accompany not only thy sadness, but seem to exceed it. Good Sir, consider a little their anguish. O, that there is nothing but vanity! answered he, all that thou seest is not done but by constraint, though those exterior outsides seem to gainsay it. Seest thou those wax lights, torches, and the rest of the hearse, who would not say but that they light and accompany something? and that it is for something that all this funeral pomp is made? but know, that that which is within the coffin is nothing, for the body was nothing in its life time, Death hath lessened that nothing, and all the honours that are given unto it serve for nothing; but this is done, because the dead have their vanities and State, as well as the living. There is nothing within but Earth, not able so much as to produce fruit, and more filthy to look on, than the dirt on which thou treadest, that deserves no honour, and on which the share and plough have no predominance: and that dolefulness, which thou thinkest to have noted in these Friends, is nothing but anger and madness, that they are not ranked according to their degree and ambition. The Widower also is not so afflicted for his wife's death as thou imaginest, but 'tis the expense that vexes him, seeing he might have performed the ceremony with more ease, and less cost. He mutters within himself that she hath wronged him, in that seeing she was to die, she did not die suddenly; without putting him to such charge in Physicians, chirurgeons, and Apothecaries, who by their bills dispose his goods into parts: he hath buried two with this, and takes such delight in being a Widower, that he is upon a treaty already with one, whom he was a well-willer unto during his old wife's sickness. Thou shalt see him shortly risen, from those deadly habiliments which inter him.  
I was wonder-strook at these speeches. Ah! that the things of this World (said I) are far different from what we see them! hereafter I will be more reserved in spending my judgement, and those things I shall clearest behold, will most doubt of. This burial vanished so soon from our eyes, as if we had not seen it, or been likely to have made the same journey; and as if the deceased had not showed us the way, speaking in a silent language; I go before to stay for you, whilst you keep the rest company, as I have heretofore done, with as much neglect, and less devotion.  
We were hindered from thinking on this, by a noise which we heard in an house behind us; where we were no sooner entered but the assembled began a loud cry, accompanying the sobs and groans of a woman, newly become a Widow.  
Their sorrows were very lively, (yet availed not the dead) every minute they wrung their hands, and sent forth sighs that seemed to proceed from the centre of their hearts. The chambers of the house were disrobed of their ordinary furniture, and the poor afflicted was laid on a bed, in a room hung with black. One of he● Comforters said, Alas! all your tears are to no end, and I am unable to comfort you, being more grieved at your sorrow, than if it were mine own: another, you ought not so much to macerate yourself, because your husband's good life assures you that he is in bliss: and another, that she must be patient, and conform herself to the will of Heaven; which words made her double her complaints, and with greater vehemency to afflict herself; saying, O God Why do I live after the loss of so dear and loving a Companion? O! that I am unhappy in being borne! Woe is me! Whither shall I go? Who is there now that will take into his protection a poor woman? a desolate Widow? and help her in distress?  
At this pause, all the rest of the choir, with instrumental discord of their noses and handkerchers, deafened the house; and then I found, that in such occasions women purge by their eyes and noses, some part of their bad humours: notwithstanding I could not bridle myself from participating some part of their grief, and to turn towards my conductor with these words. Pity, said I, is very well bestowed on a Widow, because she is forsaken of the world; the holy Scripture calls them mutes and tongueless, for so the Hebrew word signifies; there is none that speaks for her, and though she take so much courage as to speak for herself, yet none will hear her, so that that imports as much also as if she were dumb. Give me leave therefore I pray you to commiserate the like misfortune, and to mix my tears with these womens'; and wherefore, said he? To what purpose is it that thou knowest many things, if thou dost not make a right use of them? Observe a little and thou shalt see, how this Widow, that seems externally to have her body made of hosannas, and her soul of Allelujahs; hath a sable shroud, but green heart. Seest thou the obscurity of this Chamber, and those veils that cover their faces; these are to disguise their tears, which are nought but dissembling. Wilt thou comfort them? let them alone: they will revel as soon as they see nobody by them, that may serve as a subject to exercise their hypocrisy. And then will the Gossips begin their game; Come, come, will one say, be comforted, you have an advantage, you dream not of; your husband hath left you young, and there are brave men enough, who will seek after and make very much of you. You know partly already the intentions of such a Gentleman, I am confident that if he once obtain you, he will be so kind, that you will quickly forget the dead. Faith, if I were in your place, says another, I would not be long pleasing myself; for one lost, there is ten found: I would practise the counsel my partner gives you. But I think you are much obliged to him, that visited you yesterday. What say you? Is he not an handsome man? yes truly, and loves you extremely. Alack, alack, will the Widow then answer, winking with her eyes, and drawing her lips together. 'tis not time yet to speak of that, all depends on God's providence, and he will ordain it so, if he find it necessary; yet your counsel is not to be neglected. Dost thou mark what extreme grief she suffers? her husband is but newly dead, and she already well-nigh married. Consider therefore with thyself, how vain and unprofitable these exclamations are, which thou hast made.  
He had hardly ended, when we heard in the Street a great hurly-burly of people; and going forth saw a Sergeant bleeding and out of breath, crying out, Assist the King's Officers, and running after a debtor that fled from him. The commonwealth is much beholding to this Fellow, and ought very well to reward him, said I, seeing he thrusts his body into so great hazard, to save their lives and goods. See how he is torn and bloody, in having employed his strength and power for the good and rest of it.  
Soft and fair, said the aged man, if I stop not your course you will never leave; son, assure thyself that he that is fled is one of the Sergeants friends, with whom he often caroused; who for not having made him partaker of a late booty he had taken, the marshal in spite would arrest, and cast into prison; but after he had broke from him, and soundly beat him, he is escaped as you see; and had need to have good legs, seeing he runs against those, that are swifter than race-horses, where they think to be well paid. But note, that it is not the least thought of the weal public that puts him on this action, but his private particular and malice in being made a Novice. For I assure you, that if his own interest had not excited him to it, and that he had not sought after him in way of revenge, the thief is too much his Friend, and their combination is too great for the Law to take place. And though such as are decayed and in debt are their chiefest gain, yet their revenues proceed from whips, the rope, and the gibbet. Therefore I wonder why the World that hates them so much, doth not resolve to forsake vice and practice virtue, (though but for a year or two) to be avenged and starve them. 'tis a cursed office since their wages are paid by Belzebub.  
He had spoken more, if he had not been deterred, by the great noise and ratteling of a Coach, in which was a Courtier, so swelled with pride, that he seemed to be heavier than the four horses which drew him: he sat as upright as if he had been a statue, and was very greedy in his looks, but so disdainful that every one offended him: his attendants on foot were many lackeys, and in the Coach a jester and a Flatterer, who in obscene jests, and itching talk, past away the time. Happy art thou, said I, as soon as I saw him! without doubt the World is not made but for thee, seeing thou livest in pleasure and greatness! Surely thy riches are well employed, seeing thou maintainest so great a train●! All that thou thinkest and speakest (said my moderator) is nothing but surmise, yet hast thou truly said, that the World was made for him, since it is nought but vanity and folly, with which he is puffed up. I believe if thou dive into his retinue, thou wilt see more creditors than Servants; for his food and livelihood proceed only from loan, credit, hope, and fair promises: and if the secrets of his Conscience were ripped, the inventions, that he uses to maintain life, would be found more irksome, than if he got his bread by delving. Seest thou that buffoon and Sycophant? they are subtler than himself, for they deride, yet live upon him. Can there then be a more miserable man, than such an one, who buys flattery at so dear a rate, and thrusts himself into engagements to get nothing but false reports? Foolish Lord▪ he is ravished with the adulation of these two, who perhaps have told him, that there is no Courtier his equal, that the Ladies have no object more pleasing, nor conversation more enticesive; when they do it only to sooth and impoverish him.  
Last of all, a Lady passed by us, whose gesture and behaviour was so graceful, that she attracted all the beholders. She went with an artful carelessness, hiding her face from those th●t had already beheld her, and showing it to such as took no notice of it: her visage was snow and roses, which contrary to the order of nature united themselves: her lips vilified coral; her teeth pearl; and her hands Jessamine; and in brief she was the Epitome of earthly beatitude: and I myself was more inflamed with a desire to follow her, than any other object I had seen; but at the very first step my Guide stayed me, yet not without my expression of discontent in these terms: he must be infinitely barbarous, that is insensible of the delicacy of so excellent a beauty, as this is: how fortunate is he who meets with so favourable an opportunity! and how worthy that shall enjoy her! what unknown pleasures is he master of, that in all liberty possesses a fair wife, who had not been made but for the love of man? what lightenings and thunder shot from her eyes? what enchantments and fetters for a free soul? was ever Ebony so black as her eyebrows? Crystal cannot brag of so much clearness as her front. Certainly, this is the masterpiece of nature, and the haven of all desired wishes. Till this present, said my aged Friend, I thought thee only blind, but I see thou art both blind and foolish. Did I not tell thee that the eyes were made to see, but that it is for the understa●ding to make election? Know, that this woman, who seems so really perfect, slept yesternight very ugly, and now is nothing but prime and plaster; the hair she wears came from the Tire-women, for her own was blown away with an ill wind that came from France, and if any remains, she dares not show it, lest it should accuse her of the time past: her eyes have no other brows than those which a pencil makes, nor her hair any other colour; neither doth her pulchritude proceed from any other nature, than Alembicke waters, essences and painting. Kiss her, and she is oil; embrace her, pastboord; and bed her, an Anatomy. Upon what then is thy judgement founded, that thou thinkest her so accomplished? Thine eyes, have they not betrayed thee? Admire then thine ignorance, and understand (not to trouble myself with this woman's imperfections) that most of the sex are Hypocrites, and that the wise man's saying can never be contradicted, One man among a thousand have I found, but a woman among all those have I not found. So I awaked.   

To the REader.  
Reader, I here present thee with a Vision of Hell, as a proviso whereby to amend thy life. Therefore if thou intendest from this hour to begin, be not culpable of thine own vice, in calling me Detractor, or evil speaker, seeing that none can calumniate the Damned. If Hell seem to be too great, take what portion thou wilt, and be silent: Is it not a courtesy when thou hast as much or as little pain given thee as thou pleasest? And be not amazed if thou find nothing but horror and obscurity, for thou Mayst well think that neither the sun nor joy inhabit there. I need not beg any ingenuous man's approbation, nor fear any envious man's censure. If my book please thee, thou Mayst drive away thy idleness with it; or otherwise, bring it to light upon thy chimney hearth. At which I will not be offended, since I have given thee counsel so to do; nor the Bookseller neither, if thou hast paid him for it.   

VISIONS.  
The sixth Vision: OR, Hell.  
'tWas autumn, a time that invited many to their country houses, to receive the fruits of the Earth, and participate the second Spring: a Season of retirement that called me also, though to no mansion of mine own, yet to a receptacle of my Friends where I found the; refreshment as healthy, and the artless Groves to yield as pleasant a solitude, as the artificial Wildernesses of the great. In so much, as it quite altered my wonted study, from the dangerous shelves that many are split on, to the harmless mountains of Innocency and Labour: and from corrupted riches, and delicious fare, to low feeding and elated souls. On which dreaming under my mean Canopy, I was transported through the neighbour Wood, into a place far from home, of no more night; and to one of the most delicate prospects that could be presented, where the serenity and temperature of the air, did in their gentleness fan the heat, and ravish the Senses. On one side the Rivers of liquid crystal prattled with the gravel and flinty borders, on another the Trees conversed with their aspen murmur, and in the midst of these the Birds sung; I know not whether in emulation of Plants and fountains, or by way of parallel to give them music for music: but for as much as our desires are vagabond, and dulled with the much enjoyment of any one thing, solitude began now to be troublesome, and I was impatient for association: when at the same instant (a marvelous thing) I saw two ways whose birth came from one place, which separated themselves by little and little, till they were past a separable distance. That on the right hand was so narrow, that comparison can hardly be made, and for being but little frequented was so full of brambles, thorns, stones, and ruggedness, that it was a mighty toil to enter or go upon it: yet were there some signs of divers persons that had passed, though with infinite discommodity; for they were fain to leave both their money and their flesh behind them. And of some passing, but their faces were wan and meager, and they walked without ever looking back: to say that one might ride upon it, is a Fable, for having asked that question, a Traveller told me, that Saint Paul was fain to alight; and indeed I saw not any track or footing of Beasts, rut of Coach or cartwheel, nor print of Litter or Sedan, nor was it ever remembered that there had been any.  
At which wondering, I applied myself to a poor man, that rested to take breath, and asked if there were no inns nor places of retreat to lodge in. No, you must always go, (said he) there is no staying, neither inn nor tavern; for this is the way of virtue, and but few pass through it. Know you not that in the race of life, to be borne is to set forth, to live to pilgrim it; that the inn is the world, and in going out of it there are not many steps, to enter either into pain or glory. Saying this he went on, God be with you, (said he) he that goes in the path of virtue, loses time when he stays; and besides there is danger in answering those, that inform themselves only through conceitedness, and not to be instructed.  
He proceeded, stumbling often against the stones, and breathing at every step, and the tears which distilled from his eyes (in mine apprehension) were able to have softened Flints, to be more pliable to his feet. Upon what spleen was this way made (said I)? It is very rude and laborious, and to make it more distasteful, the parties that go in it are untractable and uncivil. This agrees not with mine humour; therefore I left it, and turning on the left hand got into the other; where I saw much Company, many Gallants, and many Coaches full of human Beauties, whose eyes seemed to contend with the sun; some singing, others laughing, and others eating, so that I took it to be some great festival. And then remembering this sentence, Tell me with whom thou conversest, and I will tell thee what thou art? that I might not be reproved for frequenting bad Company. I endeavoured to follow this that seemed to be so good; and hardly had set forward, but like to him that glides upon ice, I found myself in the midst of the rout, amongst Ladies, Masques, Comedies, plays, Banquets, very consonant to mine inclination.  
This was not like the other track, where for want of tailors, people went naked: there were to spare here as well as of Merchants, Skinners, milliners, Upholsters, and all Trades besides, that serve to advance human pride, as Embroiderers, Perfumers, saddlers, shoemakers, Sempsters, Periwig-makers, Haberdashers, &c. And for innkeepers and ●Vintners there wanted not abundance: with whom I had not long been, when I perceived some of both ways to change, and shift from one to the other, by very strait bypaths: at whom we all jested, but chiefly at those that went from us, calling them Dissemblers, precise, wretched, and the refuse of the world; at which some of them stopped their ears and passed by, some stayed to hear us, others were deafened with our cries, and others flattered with our persuasions revived.  
I saw also another middle way, where many went, afar off seeming to be virtuous, but nearer hand were of our side. One told me they were Church-hypocrites, and were but only vailed and disguised to us, for they had no masks, nor false vizards for the Eyes eternal. They went alone, and were held to be less subtle than Moores, and more brute than lawless Barbarians: because that they are contented to enjoy the happiness of the present life, not knowing any other: but these that can tell what temporal and eternal life is, are so accursed, that they neither freely enjoy the present, nor hope for that to come. So that the saying is to good purpose, that They gain Hell with a great deal of desert, that is, with much pains taking. Here the Rich followed riches, and the obstinate went apart, for they would not be governed by the more advised, but ran with all their might, and got always to be first. Magistrates drew after them all litigious Negociators. Passion and covetousness allured bad Judges. And Kings trained whole commonwealths; neither wanted there ecclesiastical men of all sorts, and whole Regiments of soldiers, who had been truly glorious if they had set forth the Name of God in fighting, as they had done in swearing. Some generous Spirits of the number of those who were on the right hand, seeing these wretches carrying yet passports, and petitions for reward of their service, cried unto them moved with charity▪ and as if they had gone to some battle, To me soldiers, to me. What mean you? Is it an action of valour to forsake this way, for fear of the dangers that are in it? Come on boldly, for we are assured that those that fight lawfully, shall be crowned: let not vain hopes of reward entice you: a worthy man ought to seek for nought but virtue, and she is the reward of herself, if you rely upon her: turn therefore and take part with us, and you shall be happy. The soldiers heard very attentively all these persuasions, and ashamed of reproof and cowardice forsook their Station, and hanging down their heads cast themselves into a tavern.  
After this I saw a great Lady, without either Coach or Litter, on foot and alone, and sought out a Scrivener to record it, being no ordinary accident, but finding none, I verily believed that I was not mistaken; yet calling to mind that I had heard that the way to Paradise was full of crosses, austerity and repentance, and considering that I saw not any about me, but such as discoursed of wantonness and delight, I began to question and misdoubt; but I was drawn from this incertainty, by a multitude of married men, who led their wives by their hands, that people might take notice of their affection; nevertheless some of them were their husbands fast, since he dicted himself that she might feed on dainties; and others his nakedness, since he grudged his own apparel to maintain her in her Coach, and to buy toys, gowns, and superfluous trifles for her: by which I learned, that a man ill married, may boast that he possesses in the person of his wife, all necessary qualities to be put in the list of Martyrs: and seeing their troublesome life, confirmed my first faith, that I was in the good way: but that opinion had no long durance, because I heard a voice behind me crying, Make way there for apparators; O God said I, Are there apparitors here? Without doubt we are going to Hell; and it was true, for at the same instant we were got in by a little door made like a Mousetrap, easy to enter, but impossible to get out.  
I was greatly astonished, in that in all the way no man remembered whither he was going, and yet when we were entered, every one aghast began to look upon his Companion, saying, it is infallible, we are in Hell. At which mine heart began to quiver, and with tears in mine eyes, I began to bewail those I had left behind me in the World, as my Kindred, Friends, and acquaintance: but turning my face towards the way by which we came, I saw most of them coming, whose arrival did a little comfort me, believing that they would be some consolation in so sad an abode, if perhaps I should stay there long.  
Notwithstanding I pursued my journey, and noted the Gate to be guarded by seven devils, who kept account of all that entered. They asked my name and quality, and knowing my design, let me pass; but demanding of the throng behind me the same question, and being informed tailors, one of the devils answered, What a strange thing is this? I think that all the tailors in the World believe, that Hell is made for none but them, they come in such clusters. How many are there, said another devil? There are an hundred, said the former: Deceive not yourself, said his Companion, It is impossible if they be tailors there should be so few, for the least band that comes daily of them, is not less than a thousand or twelve hundred, and we have already so many, that we know not where to pile them, neither know I whether we ought to receive them or no: the poor Smell-feasts were much frighted at these words, believing they would thrust them out; but at last they found favour and got in. I may well say (thought I then) that these people are very wicked, since the refusal of entrance into Hell is so rigorous a threatening to them. Hereupon behold a devil of the black Guard, who stackt them up in a place of stowage, they being by reason of their dry seeding accounted the wood of Hell.  
From the Gate going through a dark entry, one called me by my name; at which horror struck I turned, and perceived it to be a man, yet very hardly because of the darkness which was very thick, and the flames that environed him. Ah, Sir! said he, do you not know me? I am such an one, a bookseller; Is it possible, said I? Yes, answered he, 'tis I; Who would ever have thought it? He believed that I would have pitied him; but when I had seen his face, I began to admire the righteous judgement of God in his just punishment, for his Shop was a very storehouse of Sedition; and it was he that sold and vented all those wicked, scandalous, and schismatical Pamphlets, against Church and State Government, which at this day run up and down under the hands of malevolent, disaffected persons: and somewhat near him, I also espied another, whose Shop had been no other than a stews of licentiousness, and a Magazine of heresies, fraught with nothing more than obscene, scurrilous, profane, railing, & popish Pamphlets, tending to the subversion of all good manners, & to the increase of superstitious vanities. After that I had a while beheld them, I made show of administering redress unto them, but they perceiving that I counterfeited, said, What would you? 'tis the cursedness of our condition, that we are not condemned for our own works only, as other men are, but endure and suffer for the works of others; yet herein we receive some solace, in that we are not alone, but have Printers our coequals, who for their own lucre, have been as forward as ourselves in these things; and for aught we see, suffer more extremely than ourselves, and that for nothing more than for their unjust and unconscionable dealings towards us, in often printing such great numbers of overplus books to their own abundant benefit, and our great loss and detriment. More they would have said, but that a devil with the smoke of his loose paper, stopped their breath; to avoid which fume I went on, saying in myself, Alas! If there are men condemned for selling and printing the evil works of others, what shall become of the Writers, and those that practice them?  
I passed on, and went into a Cave, where I saw many burning in immortal Fire. One of them said I, I never oversold, I never sold but that which was just, why am I thus afflicted? When I heard him say he had sold that which was just, I thought it had been Judas, and went nearer to see if he were red haired, as we commonly imagine: but I found it to be a Mercer, dead not long before. How, World-thrive (said I) are you here? he scorned to answer, because I gave him no better Title: but one of their Torturers (to augment their pain) These Drapers, Mercers, Goldsmiths, and silkmen (said he) would always shape their false lights and weights according to their fancy, and make their measures of what length and shortness they pleased, and now they find the gain on't. But if the World would be wise, they would quickly bankrupt all these kind of men; for than they would understand, that stuffs of Gold and Silver, and silk that Plate, Diamonds, and pearl, that Lace, silk, and cloth, and all other things upon which they set unmerciful rates, are things rather superfluous than necessary, and that these are they that feed all your disordinate and foolish expenses, to which they allure and flatter you with a Lover called Credit, by means whereof they invisibly ruin you.  
The devil would have spoke more if I had not left him, to see from whence proceeded those peals of laughter, which I heard. They were Spirits deriding one, who would not submit because he was a Gentleman, showing his Pedigree taken from the herald's Office; but a devil told him, Gentleman (said he) let your descent be what it will, you have not done in your life time any other, than the works of an infamous man, in swearing, blaspheming, and haunting of Brothell-houses, and taverns; in which respect, your arms are discarded by the Court of Hell. He that is virtuous, is the truly Noble: yet though a man were an upstart, (as you are) if his actions were worthy imitation, we dare no more touch him than a thing sacred. Your billetting would not have been made here, if you had been better than others: but since you esteem yourself so noble, you shall be burnt that we may preserve your ashes: this said, he cast him into a furnace.  
Taking the left hand, I saw a number of old men, tearing their flesh, and lamenting bitterly, and inquiring what they were? This is the enclosure, said one, of those Fathers, who damn themselves that their Posterity may be rich, and who otherwise are called the ill-advised. Miserable that I am! (said one of them) I never had in all my life time so much as one minutes rest, I did not eat, slept not, and went almost naked, tormenting both my body and mind to gather substance, that I might richly marry my Children, and with great sums purchase them Offices and honours: which done I died without being sick, that I might diminish nothing of those golden heaps, I had gathered together; and yet the breath was scarce out of my body, but they quite forgot me; no tears, no monrning, and as if they had had certain intelligence of my damnation, they neither charitably wish me a joyful resurrection, nor accomplish that which I commanded them; nay more, to aggravate my torments, God suffers that I see them from hence consume and spend in dissoluteness, those goods for which I have so impoverished the World. 'tis no time now to complain, said a devil, Have you not heard being on Earth this proverb, Happy is the child whose Father goes to the devil? At this the poor men multiplied their cries, which object moved me to so great compassion, that I could no more behold them.  
But a little farther espying an obscure Dungeon, in which was heard a great jangling and clattering of chains; I asked what place that was? and was answered, it was the bounds of O that I had! I understand you not, said I, what are they? These are (said one) the idiots of the World, who gave themselves over to vice, to their insensible damnation▪ and now remembering what they should have done, and did not; to defend themselves from the pains they suffer, they continually cry, O that I had confessed my sins to the Lord! O that I had repented! O that I had gone to Church! O that I had served God O that I had relieved the poor! O that I had refrained my tongue, and many other exclamations like unto these.  
After these late Repentants, I met others far worse, who were in a baseCourt full of much nastiness; and wondered to hear the title that belonged to them, which was as a devil told me, God is merciful, and will forgive. How can that be, said I, that mercy should condemn, since that condemnation is an action of Justice? You talk like a devil. And you said the devil, like a fool, since you know not that half of those that are here are adjudged by God's mercy. But, to make you understand the Riddle▪ Consider how many Sinners there are, who when they are admonished of their evil doings, leave not for all that to continue and increase them more and more, in answering to their Reprovers, God is merciful, he regards not so small a thing, his mercy is so great: and thus whilst they hope in God, persevering in their wicked ways, we never distrust them. After your reckoning, (said I) none may rely on the Mercy of God. You are dull, said he, you must trust in it, 'tis that that helps forward good desires, and rewards good actions, but it is denied to those that are obstinate in their wicked ways, for it is to play with Grace, to believe that it serves to cover guilt, and to think that a man may receive it just when he hath need of it without ever endeavouring to get it. God's mercy is infinite for his Saints and repentant Sinners, who struggle to become worthy; and those that have the greatest share, are such as are most fearful; but he that knows how great it is, makes himself unworthy the effects, when he turns it into the liberty of evil doing, and not into spiritual profit.  
Can it be (said I overwhelmed with marvel) that so good a lesson should proceed from the mouth of so mischievous a doctor? Which spoken▪ the devil showed me a flaming partition, wherein (as one of the Tortured told me) were those that were afflicted with sudden deaths. You lie, (in reverence be it spoken to the Gentleman that hears me) said the Fiend, no man dies suddenly. Death uses no surprise. There wants never warning. How is it that you complain of dying suddenly, when since your very birth, since you began the course of your life, Death was always with you? What is more ordinarily seen in the World than dying and burial? What is spoken of more in the Pulpit? or read of more in good books, than the frailty of life, and certainty of Death? First of all the body, grows it not every day nearer and nearer to its tomb? Clothes, wear they not? Houses, decay they not? Your own Diseases, and those of others, knock they not at all hours at the Gates of your souls, remembering them that they must dislodge? Sleep, represents it not to the life the death of living man? and life, is it not maintained by the death of beasts? And for all this, you are so impudent, as to say that you died suddenly. No, no, change language, say hereafter that you are unbelievers, dead, without ever thinking that you should die; and learn besides, that Death takes as soon the youngest stripling, as the agedst decrepit; and according to what they have done, be it good or ill, she proves either a Mother or a Stepdame.  
He showed me also a vast Cauldron, savouring of many oily scents, wherein were preserved Apothecaries, Comfit-makers, chirurgeons, Distillers, Barbers, and mountebanks, with many more, for fear of rottenness, saying, these are the true alchemists, and not Geber, Ruspicella, with the rest; because they only writ of what metals Gold might be made, but made it not; or if they did, none ever since could penetrate into the depth of their secrets. But these, out of puddle water, sticks, Flies, dung, Vipers, Toads, simples, sugar and excrements, can make Gold, of better substance than all those could, that ever meddled in the art, because that theirs is ready coined for use. In which respect we are careful to preserve them, lest our treasure should decrease.  
Hereupon another devil made signs that I should come unto him without noise; which having done, he set me against an open casement, saying, look in there, and see the ordinary exercise of foul Women. I did as I was commanded, and beheld a very great number, some whereof were putting black patches on their faces; others plucked up the hair on their eyebrows, and others that▪ had none made use of black Lead, some put on foretops of counterfeit hair, some placed Ivory teeth in their gums, in stead of those of Ebony which were fallen out. This eat ambergris Comfits to purify her breath, and those held boxes of painting, with which they daubed their faces, and by this means became infinitely shining, without being either stars or suns. Well, said the devil, would you have believed that Women had been so inventive and ingenious to perdition? I knew not what to answer, but turned away, and saw a man sitting on a chair all alone, without either fire, ice, devil, or rack about him; who nevertheless cried out with the fearfullest cries that ever I yet heard; his heart t●ickled drop by drop from his eyes, and he tore his bre●st, and gnawed his arms, in so furious a manner, that I thought he had been mad; O Lord! said I, with what despair is this poor man transported? nobody to my thinking doth him any harm; Friend, my Friend, What Fury bewitches you? For what do you complain being here alone, free from all manner of Torture. Alas! said he, with a terrible voice, I feel in myself all the pangs of Hell together. You see not the Hangmen that are linked to my soul; you see them not (said he, reiterating his cry, and turning about as distracted) but he sees them, whose severe and implacable Justice can measure offences, with torments without measure. O Memory! thou art to me a cruel devil! memory of the good I might have done, memory of those wholesome counsels I have despised, and the evils I have committed, Ah! that thou dost afflict me! And to heap up my misfortunes, when thou leavest me, my Reason begins her course, and the imagination of that glory I might have had, and that others possess, without having bought it so dear, as I have done the pains I suffer! O understanding! What cruelty dost tho● use towards me, in setting before me Heaven and Paradise, so full of beauty, joy, content, and delight, and yet drownest me more and more in despair! Some release I pray thee. And thou my Will, Is it possible that thou resusest to make a truce for one poor moment? You that are a Pilgrim of the other World, who ask what torments me? Know they are the three powers of my soul, converted into invisible flames, and into three Executioners, who without hand or Element, burn and tear my entrails. And if by chance they cease to wrack me, the worm of Conscience gnaws my soul, as the perpetual food of insatiable hunger. Ending this word, he cast forth a deep groan, and turning from me; mortal, said he, Consider that those of the World, who were illuminated with the gospel, and endowed with celestial Graces, and have not employed them to their own Salvation, carry their Hell in themselves, and are tormented with the like misery as I am. This said, he began his first work: and I departed very pensive, apprehending in myself, that that man must needs have heavy crimes upon his Conscience. But the devil seeing me sad, whispered in mine ear that it was an Atheist, who neither believed in God nor the devil. O that an understanding man is really accursed (replied I) when he cannot tell how to make profit of that talon, which God hath given him!  
Not far off, I saw abundance of People, drawing a fiery Cheriot through a burning Lake, with rings thrust through their tongues, to which the harness was fastened; and a devil going before them with this Proclamation, This is the punishment of swearers, slanderers, and liars. In the wagon were easy believers; and in a room whose prospect looked upon them were beautiful Women, tormented in quality of Witches; at which mine heart melted, but a devil came to comfort me, saying, do you not remember the evil they have done you? Have you not often found by experience, that they use a certain kind of magic that destroys; therefore their pain is agreeable to it.  
I followed my devilish conductor, and saw Judas▪ accompanied with false Stewards. Traitors, and such officers as himself, some whereof had no ●●●●heads, and others no face. ● seemed to be well pleased with them, who related the exploits they had done in his imitation. Going nearer, I saw that their torment was like that of Titius, on whose entrails a vulture still gnawed, for their Consciences were their greatest tormentors. I could not suppress the desire I had to speak, perjured, disloyal, traitor, villain above all example (said I) how durst thou be so vile, as to sell thy Master, thy Lord, and thy God? Why, answered Judas, do you complain of that? You should rather commend than condemn me, since you receive so great a benefit thereby. 'tis for me to bewail that am excluded from the possession of so great a good, as I have put into your hands. But think not that I am Judas alone, Know that since the Lord's Death there have been and are worse than I, more wicked, and more unthankful, witness heretics, and Schismatickes. For if I did once sell my Master, I was in part cause of the Redemption of mankind; but they in selling him, you, and themselves, have lost all the World. And others, who are not content to sell him only, but they scourge, and crucify him, more ignominiously than the Jews, in their wicked lives. And though I know that repentance now avails me not, yet I would have you on earth to look into yourselves before you censure me; since I was the first Steward condemned for sale, and not for bargain, as is the use and practice of all my fellows.  
I would hear no more, but making way, saw a great bulk of building which seemed like some enchanted Castle; in which were many Venereous devils tossing Whores and Thieves from scalding oil into frozen ice, to heat and cool their appetite. One of the Females stepping to the threshold, where I and my Guide stood, Gentlemen (said she) I pray you tell us whether this be justice to condemn People both for giving and taking? A thief is condemned because he takes from another, and an Whore because she gives. For my part, I maintain that there is no injustice in us; for if it be justice for every one to give of his own, and that we do no other, wherefore are we damned? We found her question too difficult to be derided, and therefore sent her to Lawyers and counsellors, who were not far from her: but remembering that I had heard her speak of Thieves, I asked where Seriveners were, because as I came, I overtook none by the way: I believe, said my devil, that you met not any. Why? Are they then allsaved? No, said he, but they come neither on foot nor horseback, but flying on wings a million in a flock; in respect of which lightness, they are tormented in an upper Chamber.  
I passed by, and not far from thence went unto a place, in which many souls were shut up, some whereof were very silent, and others clamorous. One told me it was the empalement of Lovers, at which I was something grieved, seeing that Death doth not kill the sighs with the body. Some talked of their passions, and endured a torment of loving distrust, and others attributed their loss to their desires and imaginations, whereof the force of the one, and, the colours of the other, did present pictures to be a thousand times fairer than persons and substances. The most part-of them were disquieted and molested with a torture called I thought. (as a devil ●old me) and asking what that was? He smiling replied, 'tis a torment agreeable to their offence▪ for when Lovers see themselves deceived in their hopes, either in the pursuit or possession of their Mistresses, they say always, I thought that she did love me, I thought she would have been the raising of my fortune, I thought that she would have been faithful to me; so that the cause of their 〈◊〉 proceeds not from any other thing but I thought.  
Next to Lovers were Poets, who endured the same punishment, because their passions were not much different. These men are of very jesting humours, (said the devil) for whilst that others mourn and bewail their sins, they sing theirs, and publish them everywhere. For if they have but once lain with a Cloris, Phillis, Silviae, or Melita, by the means of one song they will walk her through a kingdom docked like a Chimisticall goddess. They will give her golden hair, a crystal forehead, eyes of emeralds or Diamonds, teeth of pearl, lips of Purple and Rubies, with words of musk and Amber: and yet for all these riches of which they are so prodigal, they cannot get credit for a mean suit among Brokers, a course shirt among Sempsters, nor a cracked beaver at the second hand.  
Fearing too long a stay, I went on to see the devout Impertinents, who make prayers and requests to God full of absurd extravagancies. O that they gave testimony of much grief! Their tongues were chained in everlasting silence, and their bodies made crooked and bending to the Earth, condemned to hear for ever the fearful cries of a wheazing devil, who thus reproved them. You brazenfaced abusers of Prayer, and the long sufferance of GOD, presumptuous, who dare treat with the Divine Majesty, with less respect than you would do with a Merchant with whom you traffic: how many times have you made these execrable petitions? Lord, take my Father out of this World, that I may enjoy his goods. Let my Brother die within few days that I may succeed him in dignity. Grant that I may find a Mine of Gold at my feet. That I may be fortunate in play. That my son and Daughter may be richly married. That the King may cast his favour upon me. And add unto these rash demands; do this Lord, and I promise to give money towards the marriage of orphans, to build almshouses, and relieve Hospitals. What blindness! to promise gifts to him, from whom you desire riches, and to whom all things belong? What arrogancy! to require of God in quality of favours those things, which he gives ordinarily for punishments and chastisements; and although you do obtain, yet you never perform your promises. How many protestations have you made to God, his members, and his service, when you were in the abyss of raging and tempestuous necessity, on land, at sea, in sickness, in despair, of which you have held no reckoning when you have obtained your wishes. But you were never other than Hypocrites and deceivers. Your oaths and vows were never made through devotion, but necessity. Did you ever ask of God your souls rest? the increase of Grace, his favours, and inspirations? No verily, and I believe you were altogether ignorant of the worth of these spiritual riches, thinking too much on temporal; and knew not that the most pleasing sacrifices and oblations to GOD, were purity of Conscience, humility of spirit, and servant love and charity. He takes delight that men should be mindful of him, that he may multiply his benefits, but they never remember him, but when they feel affliction, and that is the reason God sends them calamities, to maintain their zeal. Unjust demanders! Consider now how little those things you have desired, and God given, have stayed with you: and how unthankful they have been, (though you have ever cherished them) since they have not accompanied you to your last end. Consider that your Children and Kindred do so little remember what goods you have left them, that they employ not one penny to pious uses, yet they are excusable, in that seeing that you did none in your life time, they know you cannot take pleasure in them though performed after your death: and besides that you are in a place which they trust never to deserve. Some of these miserable men would have answered, but the muzzles that locked up their speech would not permit them.  
Thence I went into a great Hall, smelling abundantly of Sulphur; wherein were alchemists, whom devils examined with much trouble, for they could not understand their gibbridge: their talk was altogether of metallicke Substances, which they named after the seven Planets, as Gold the sun, Silver the moon, brass Jupiter, tin Venus, &c. They were all charged with furnaces, crucibles, coals, bellows, argall, minerals, dungs, man's blood, and alembicke powders; some calcined, others washed ●here they purified, there separated, made firm that which was volatile, rarified and converted into fume, that which was firm: in another place they transmuted forms, and fixed Mercury; then having resolved the viscous matter, exiled the subtle part, and fire corruptible, when they came to the coppell all exhaled in vapour: some disputed whether the fire was to be made of Beech or Maple? whether or no the fire of Raimundus Lullius was to be understood of lime, or of the effective light of heat, and not the effective heat of fire? Others with Hermes ensign, gave the principle to the great work. Others looked upon the black become white, hoping to see it red. And whilst that the proportion of nature with nature, did contend and aid itself; whilst that the rest of their blind Oracles did wait the reduction of the first matter; in lieu of converting dung into hair, and human blood, ingots, and wedges of Gold; they turned fine Gold into fine ordure, became fools, beggars, and false Coiners: how often did I hear them say, The Dead Father is risen, kill him once more! How many did I see busied to explain these words, so often repeated by all chemist authors, God be praised, who suffers that out of the vilest thing in the world, so excellent and rich a matter should be made! Some said they had found the sense, and that if the philosopher's Stone was to be made of the vilest thing in the World, it was to be made of public Strumpets, because there is nothing so infamous in Nature, as to prostitute one's body to all comers; upon this opinion they went to boil and distil them; but a devil came, saying, Gentlemen Philosophers, will you know assuredly, what is the vilest thing in the World? It is alchemists, therefore desiring to make the philosopher's Stone, following the method we heard you talk on; we will put you into the fire to make an experimental proof. As he said, so 'twas done, and the poor mad chemists burned almost with their own wills, so great a desire they had to see the Elixir:  
Not far off from these, I saw a great society of Astrologers, and superstitious men. One of them who was a Fortune-teller, looked upon the hands of all the condemned, saying, it is very easy to know by the Mount of Saturn, that you were to be damned; and as easily to be distinguished by this girdle of Venus, that you are all lechers. Another who was encompassed with Spheres, contemplating the stars, rising up cried out, O God What misfortune▪ If my Mother had but been delivered of me one half hour sooner, I had been saved; for at that instant Saturn changed aspect, and Mars lodged in the house of life. Another said to the devils that tormented him, that they were best to be assured that he was dead, for his part he would not believe it, because he had Jupiter for ascendant, and Venus in the house of life, not having any evil aspect; which signified that he should live, an hundred and one years, two months, six days, four hours, and three minutes. And another reduced his Science into certain heads, to divine of things to come, and know things past; yet could not guess at the time that was now present, nor of his own and his Companies damnation. Besides these there were many Magicians, necromancers, Sorceresses, and enchanters in the same station; and many places of expectation void, which were said to be kept for certain great men, who added faith to these devilish. Disciples.  
At last I began to be very weary, and looked about to see if I could find any place to get out; which striving to do, I was (before I was aware) in a long Gallery, in which was Lucifer Prince of Hell, environed with his whole Court composed of he and she devils; for there are Females as well as Males: but fearing to fail in respect and civility, his horrible countenance also frighting me, I stayed at the entry thereof; when the Usher of the Chamber came and told me, that being a Stranger, his Prince had commanded him to bring me in, and show me all the rarities. I thanked him for the honour his Master did me and for the pains he took himself; and complementing, began to consider how the place was better adorned, than those are of our greatest Lords and Potentates, though the most curious in the World: for they have nought but dead Statues, or painted pictures, dumb, insensible, immovable; but here all the persons were animated with breathing and life: and which was most rare, were of no base condition. None but Emperors and Kings, some Ottoman, some Roman, some Christian, besides many Queens, Princes, and Princesses, who would bind me to too long a description in nomination. But for as much as I was not able any longer to endure the air of this hot Climate, I entreated the Fiend to show me which way I might get out. Yes, said he, follow me. And then he showed me a passage, through which I got into the same Vale I mentioned at the beginning of this wonderful discourse; trembling and rejoicing both together, and meditating on the divers punishments many were tormented with, who perhaps had less deserved them than I myself; which made me undertake a constant purpose, to live for the time to come in such sort, that I may avoid feeling the reality and truth of those torments, which I beheld now only in vision. I entreat thee Reader to make thy profit hereby, by mine imitation, that thou Mayst need no further experiment.  
FINIS.   

Imprimatur,  
SAM. BAKER.