The vinyeard of Vertüe collected, composed, and digested into a tripartite order, containing XXXII. most excellent plants of fruitful virtue: In most beautiful and blessed manner environing the true elect Church of God upon earth. Every Plant containing this tripartite order: Namely 

Definition  
Testimony  
Examples   of virtue  
By R. R.  john .. 15. 
I am the true Vine, and my father is the Husbandman: Every branch that bringeth not forth good fruit, doth my father pluck away: and every branch that beareth fruit, doth my father purge, that it may bring forth fruit more abundantly.  
Imprinted by Thomas Dawson.   

To the Godly, Virtuous, and worshipful Gentleman. M. Edmund Wedale aliâs Vdale of Shirburne in Dorsetshier, long and happy increase of corporal, and spiritual good graces in this life with the participation of eternal beatitude in Christ jesus, for ever and ever.  
WE are taught in that sacred book of divine Wisdom, this most sacred lesson, worshipful Sir, Sapient. 15. Too know God, is perfect righteousness, and to know his righteousness & virtue, is the root of immortality. A sentence surely not so short and sweet, as effectually and at large comprehending firm comfort from the Creator God unto the creature man. From which God as we may define godliness to proceed, touching his Godhead; and virtue also as touching his manhood: so this godliness and virtue including his perfect righteousness is according to the measure of his grace, now and then infused upon mankind. Lactantius Firmianus seemeth to affirm this by his testimony, in libro de opificio Dei cap. 12. Where he saith. Vir dicitur, eò quòd maior vis est in eoquam in foemina, & hinc virtus nomen accepit. And although here man seemeth to have the prerogative of virtue, as of most fortitude valiancy or manhood in him: yet we must not any thing exclude the feminin sex, from the benefit of united godliness & virtue in the Lord. For as much as God by the mouth of his Prophet David avoucheth by example, too compare as well the godly & virtuous woman, as the godly and virtuous man, Like unto the tree planted by the river side which brings forth his fruit in due time & tide. Psa. 1. ve. 3. But as this true tree of godliness and virtue according to the proverb may be planted by Paul; that is to say by the holy Ghost, watered by Apollo; that is, by man's continual exercise, and by God and from God receiveth her increase: so it is oftentimes seen, where God hath his Church, there will the Devil have a Chapel. Yea where hath any goodness, godliness or virtue taken root or flourished at any time, or in any age, but even there also envy, malice & mischief would have a fling? Plutarch in his morals could say, that as the shadow followeth the body: so envy evermore accompanieth virtue, and as where is no body, there is no shadow, so where is no felicity, there is none envy. For the holiness of David, innocency of job, wisdom of Solomon, fortitude of Samson, and virtue of the most virtuous amongst mankind could not avoid enmity sufficiently, when the almighty jehovah, and most holiest Messiah had his most cruel and spiteful enemies, the jews, Scribes, & Pharisees, ever among inveighing against him, circumventing of him, & subverting his doctrine. Of the true knowledge of God, of his righteousness, and virtue rooted unto immortality, in the hearts of those that believed in him. But in their greatest jollity of justifying their own wickedness, seeming to themselves to have perfect holiness, when they had not, bearing the world in hand that they brought forth sound fruits of virtue, when they were filthily corrupted with alkind of vice: Our saviour Christ even then and therefore scourging them out of the Temple of Jerusalem, to their shame and reproach, put forth the parable of the Vineyard, and of the labourers. Luc. 19 as thereby not only confounding their falsehood and revealing their painted hypocrisy: but also utterly discovered them to be void of all true godliness & virtue, yea & also the most extreme enemies thereof.  
Touching the defect of this tree of true godliness and virtue, amongst the worldly wise Philosophers, it hath been from time too time apparently proved, that neither the Academici resident in place where they taught moral virtue, the Peripatetici prejudicating events, the Cynicis of base conversation, the Eudomenees for all their working good effects, the Philotethes for all their arrogant glory in themselves disdaining others, as though they only had perfect zeal of truth, the Phisici, for all their skilful knowledge in things natural, neither the Ethici, which taught their rules of good life and manners, neither yet the Dialectici, of singular dexterity in disputing and reasoning causes natural, could ever savour the taste of the true knowledge of GOD and of his righteousness and virtue rooted unto immortality: although in deed they took upon them a kind of profane, godly, and virtuous life, which they thought in themselves to be right, which also they taught unto the world in their tyme.  
But they were far wide from the mark, they wandered in darkness for want of light, they swallowed the sour grape in want of the sweet, and they crack the shell, but found no kernel, they were always learning, but never learned in the law of the Gospel of Christ the Lamp of light unto salvation for as Lactantius Firmianus saith libro. 3. divinarum institutionum they saw but a shadow, of true godliness & virtue, and not the light thereof itself, and they laboured all their life for it but they could never find it. Because (saith he) they either retained an ungodly religion, or else altogether maintained the same.  
But the romish Antichrist, and his cursed crew the suckblood successors of the scribes & Pharisees the brood of Belial, Nimrod's near kinsmen and adherents of wicked Achab, have from time to time heard seen, known and perceived, The affspring of the root of jesse, 
Esay. 11.  which (as Esay saith) should rise too bear rule over the Gentiles, and in whom the nations should believe. Also they have been told (by the Doctrine of our saviour Christ in his sacred Gospel, and by the testimonies of his Apostles, patriarchs, and Prophets) who was, and is and ever shall be the true vine. The true husbandman, and the true labourers: 
john. 15.  yet of wilful blindness have they refused too be engrafted in the vine of the true knowledge of God, 
Mat. 20.  of his righteousness and virtue rooted unto immortality. Yet of obstinate malice have they not only refused the calling of the heavenly husband man Christ jesus to come as labourers into his vinyearde: But also with the wild bore rooted up every vine of good doctrine in the Church of God & with the wicked husbandmen slain not only their masters servants, 
Mar. 12.  that is too say, a number of godly preachers and virtuous persons sent unto them; but also crucified the son of God anew, by their horrible disordered institutions in their Churches and Synagogues.  
That most Princely Prophet David (worshipful Sir) pronounceth all those too be blessed which dwell in the house of the Lord, that is to say in the Church of God, affirming further, that they shall praise him deservingly world without end. Psalm. 83. Surely, if the Lord GOD the holy one of Israel should presently summon the husbandmen of his vineyard throughout the world, too give perfect reckoning of due fructifying and happy state of his Church at this day: I doubt whether any Nation under the Sun, have found so great felicity and blessings abounding in them, as this little Island of ours, hath had in her of long time, neither that any Nation hath better cause too praise his holy name, for his gracious goodness, than we have, even world without end.  
Considering he hath long since out of this his vineyard in England pluck up by the root that unfruitful fig tree of the Pope's 
Luke. 12.  planting: Considering also that the vine of his glorious Gospel hath long flourished, & still doth without the annoyance of any popular tree of foreign Campania, maugre the malice of her malignant adversaries, from day too day fructifying in the true knowledge of GOD & of his righteousness and virtue unto immortality.  
Wherefore as every labourer in this vineyard is bounden in duty too bring with him godly care for conservation and preservation of the welfare thereof: so aught each one faithfully to labour in true godliness and virtue too such effect, that whereas our Saviour Christ saith, there are yet four Months, & the Harvest will be here anon: We should therefore be ready too reap the Harvest of the Lord, that we may receive reward, & gather our fruits into the barn of everlasting beatitude. john. 4.  
To this end and purpose (worshipful Sir,) as one most simple of many others, and bounden in duty with them of better ability I have here not only brought my best good will but also ability therewith: as too further the welfare of the Church of GOD amongst us, if by any means it so please GOD may possible.  
I have therefore (pressing myself an unworthy labourer, lacking columella's cunning in contriving or trying, Palladius his experience in planting and purging, and Verroes virtue in advancing the beautiful beatitude of a vineyard) simply here set down the names & natures of a few true vine plants, collected the branches out of sundry testimonies of sacred scriptures, and framed in order the fruitful examples of our saviour Christ (or of as many most excellent godly and virtuous persons as out of the scriptures only sacred, I could select) to beautify and fructify the state of God's Church in this my native country: the patronaige whereof I have vowed unto your worthy worship (as amongst others godly and virtuous Gentlemen my good benefactors) at this present chosen for your lively sincere zeal to God's truth, your virtuous example of godly conversation, and singular love to all good learning (proceeding from the root and branches of your worthy progeny especially your right worshipful, grandfather M. Nicholas Vdale a man for all rare respects of true Godliness and virtue beloved of God, his Prince the renowned King Henry the VIII. his godly and virtuous spouse Queen Katherine, and the blessed King Edward the VI and of all good and godly men) whose steypes as you imitate, so therefore may you seem worthily answerable too the protection of this and far better travails. To you therefore I say as a valley replenished with the virtuous plants of your virtuous progeny, and as a flourishing plant in these most flourishing days of our divine Deborah Queen ELIZABETH, whose gracious and blessed reign, the Lord prorogate unto the end of the world) do I with all humble and hearty good will consecrated this Vineyard of Virtue. And because good meaning hath many enemies in these days, and true virtue never wanteth unjust envy, I am in duty bound to pray unto the Almighty continually, that the Vineyard of the Lord so flourishing at this day in England, may be by him still preserved from those same popish perilous Coluoluoli, whose property is, ever to be gnawing upon fruitful vines. And that my good meaning in this little labour may be also defended against that cumbersome neighbour the Collecabedge being farther contrariety of nature, namely, cold and moist always noisome unto the vine, and only refused of her above all other plants, roots, or trees. Unto whom for her three harmful discommodities in engendering Melancholy, in breeding noisome dreams, & hurting the lungs in man's body, I may well resemble, pale malevo   

which cause Christ himself affirmed that many sins were forgiven her, for she loved much. Luke. 7. john. 11.  
Paul the chosen Apostle of Christ jesus, confessed that he esteemed all things as vile, in respect of the love which he bore to God. Phil. 3.  
For other examples of the love of God, look. Matth. 21. 1. john. 4  
¶ As the great and inestimable love of Christ the true Sámaritane appear towards us in creating, redeeming, and preserving us from death to life: so should we with mutual love, help, aid, and comfort our neighbours in all good and needful cases. Luk. 10.  
The Centurion loved so his neighbours and the nations near adjoining, that he builded a Synagogue for them, so that too show their mutual love towards him, they came to Christ, & besought him that he would vouchsafe to heal the Centurion's servant lying sick, which thing he accomplished. Luk. 7.  
The Samaritan expressed a notable testimony and example of godly love towards the man which travailed from Jerusalem to Hierico, who being rob, spoiled, and wounded by those thieves, was there pyttied by the Samaritane in such manner that he went to him, bound up his wounds, powered wine and oil thereinto, set him on his own beast, brought him to a common Inn, and made provision for him to his great relief and comfort. Luke. 10.  
Thomas the Apostle surnamed Didimus (what time our saviour Christ came to Lazarus and said plainly that he was dead) he for the love that he bore (as it seemed) unto Lazarus said unto the rest of his fellow Apostles, Let us also go that we may die with him. john. 11.  
For other examples of love towards our neighbour, look in Abraham, Gen. 18. Moses, Exo. 32. jonathas, 1. Reg. 18. and Nehemias, 2. Reg. 19   

The iiii. Plant, Hope or trust in God.  
Definition HOpe the very author of a Christian life tossed and turmoiled with chances, hazards, perils, sorrows, miseries, calamities, and troubles in this world, is the assured stay and comfort of man's help and recovery in the Lord, which hope being extinguished, neither may chances casual be tolerate, hazards eschewed, perils prevented, sorrows assuaged, miseries remedied, calamities comforted, nor troubles restrained. For as S. Paul saith this virtue Hope may well be termed the Helmet of salvation. But this hope which he so calleth is also governed by the assured promises of the true God and by precise bounds is to be discerned from human hope, which is false & uncertain, which Aristotle termeth, The Dream of him that waketh. For he counteth the hope of man in man, to be nothing esse but golden blasts of leaves which now & then shake, now and then are still and within a while are utterly blown away. Wherefore man's special hope and trust aught to be in God, which never faileth his faithful ones, neither in this transitory life, nor in the life eternal.  
Testimonies. Have hope and confidence in the Lord, with all thy heart, and lean not unto thine own wisdom, think upon him in all thy ways, and he shall direct and guide thy footsteps. Prou. 3.  
They that hope in the Lord shall change their courage, they shall take them wings as Eagles, they shall run and not labour, they shall walk and not be weary. Esa. 40.  
He that ploweth, aught to plough in hope to reap the fruit of his travail. Cor. 9  
Blessed is the man whose hope is in the name of the Lord. Psal. 39  
Who so trusteth in the Lord, mercy embraceth him on every side. Psa, 31.  
Blessed is the man which putteth his trust in the Lord. Hierem. 17.  
By hope in the Lord we are saved. Rom. 8.  
Examples. Abraham hoped against hope, that is, he looked for the thing which was to be hoped for in the promise of God, yea although the thing represented before his eyes expressed no cause of hope, namely that he should be the father of many nations, etc. Gen. 13. 17. 22.  
David amongst so many conflicts with his enemies, seeing that his hope & trust in the Lord was never made frustrate, taking great consolation therein, amongst others burst out with these words, namely, For this cause is my heart joyful, and my tongue rejoiceth, yea and moreover my flesh shall rest in hope. Psal. 15.  
job the servant of God, a perfect pattern of patience, being oftentimes diversly and grievously afflected, acknowledging the great mercies of God to be more than man's miseries confessed his hope to be such, that he was sure his redeemer lived, and that he should rise again out of the earth at the latter day. etc. job. 19  
For other examples of Hope look judi. 20. Tob. 2. simeon, Luke. 2. of Paul, Acts 13. and his admonition, 1. Tim. 6.   

The u Plant, The fear of God.  
Definition GOD hath so created men, that in their minds as it were certain beams of light should inflame their affections to be earnestly moved with the knowledge of God's wrath & justice, severely beholding all things done in his sight which are against his prescribed will and ordinance; and that men knowing what doth please him, should fear to violate or transgress from his gracious pleasure, and knowing also what doth displease him, should seek all means to avoid the danger of his displeasure. For as his holy word is a worthy witness of his will, so aught we to take good courage unto us in fulfilling the same, and tremble with fear to follow a wrong way.  
Testimonies. The beginning or ground of wisdom is the fear of the Lord, that is, to govern our life by the word of God, so to obey God and his holy william. Prou. 1.  
The fear of the Lord is a strong hold, and his Children are under a sure defence. The fear of the Lord is a well of life to avoid the snare of death. Prou. 14.  
The fear of the Lord is the right God's service that preserveth & justifieth the heart, and giveth mirth and gladness, etc. The fear of the Lord is the root of wisdom, and her branches are long life. Ecclesiasticus. 1.  
Whoso feareth the Lord he shall be happy, and when he hath need of comfort he shall be blessed. Ibidem.  
I will show you whom you shall fear: fear him which after he hath slain, hath power to cast the same into hell fire. So I say unto you fear him. Lu. 12  
Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God. Deut. 6. 10.  
Fear not him which killeth the body only, but rather fear him which can destroy both body and soul in Hell fire. Matt. 10.  
Examples. The Lord God of Israel after he had drowned Pharaoh and his host in the read sea, was more feared of those Israelites, & they believed in God, and gave credit unto the words of Moses his servant. Exo. 14. 19 and 20.  
Abdias the steward of the house of Achab feared greatly the Lord God of Israel, for when wicked jezabel had slain the prophets of the Lord, he led with him 100 of those Prophets, & hide them from persecution, & was afraid. 3. Kings. 8.  
Tobias the elder, taught his son Tobias also even from his infancy to fear the Lord, & made to be called unto his feast such persons as feared God. Yea more fearing God than the king, under whose jurisdiction he lived, he took away the bodies of those that were slain by the enemies of God's church & buried them. Tobi. 1  
Other notable Examples of the true fear of God are commemorated in judith. 8. in job. 1. 2. 31. josaphat, 2. Chr. 19 Loath, Gen. 19 The midwives for whom the Lord erected dwelling houses. Exod. 1. Sara the daughter of Raguel. Tobi. 3. and in young Tobias as it appeareth. Tob. 9   

The vi. Plant, Humility.  
Definition CHrist God and man our only saviour & redeemer, the very fountain of all perfect felicity exhorteth us unto true Humility, and for that cause trieth and exerciseth us by so many miseries, as we both naturally feel in the flesh and in the world also. So that lest we should be either presumptuous too much in pride of heart, and overmuch disdaining others, the Lord doth by diverse means reclaim us to know his sovereign salve, by planting this virtue humility in our hearts, whereby we acknowledge our sins towards God and man, our infirmity of nature, and the filthiness thereof, and fortify our minds and souls in the fear of God, and in confidence of his only divine help, and whereby also we are moved to perform the duties of our vocation in far better manner without disdaining others, to help them what lieth in us, and in all adversities casualties or miseries to be subject and humbly to submit our souls, bodies, and goods, unto the gracious good will of the same our God and merciful saviour which will not suffer us to be tried, tempted, nor troubled, beyond our strength and ability of sufferance.  
Testimonies. Blessed are the meek and humble of heart, for they shall receive the inheritance of the earth. Matth. 5.  
The Prayer of him that humbleth himself in the sight of God, pierceth the very clouds, till she come nigh she will not be comforted, nor go her way till the highest God have respect unto her. Ecclesi. 35.  
How much greater thou art, so much the more humble thyself towards all men, and thou shalt find favour in the sight of God, because great is the power of God only, and he shall be honoured of men, Ecclesiastes 3  
Whoso exalteth himself, shall be brought low, and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. Luk. 7. 18.  
Let the meek brother rejoice in his exhortation, and the rich man in his humility because he shall away hence as the flower of the grass. jam. 1.  
Have patience when thou art brought low, because in the fire is Gold & silver tried, and men acceptable unto God are tried by the furnace of adversities.  
Except you be converted, & become as one of these little ones, you shall not enter into the kingdom of Heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as one of these little ones shall be greatest, etc. Matt. 18.  
Examples. Christ jesus our Saviour the sincere fountain of humility admonisheth all men to learn Humility of him, saying, Learn of me because I am humble & meek of heart. Matt. 11.  
The Angel of God, said unto Agar, Return again unto thy mistress and humble thyself under her hands▪ Gen. 16.  
Abraham spoke humbly unto the Lord saying, I will yet speak unto my Lord although I am but earth and ashes. Gen. 18.  
jacob humbled himself very much before his brother Esau, and so pacified his wrath. Gen. 33.  
Moses' excused himself five times before he would take upon him the leading forth of the people, which yet the Lord enjoined him, and he was not persuaded until he perceived that the Lord was angry. Exod. 3.  
Gedeon (when the Angel said unto him go, in thy strength shalt thou deliver Israel) humbly answered, Behold my stock is weak in Manasses, and I myself am the least in the house of my father. jud. 5.  
David being tried in manifold troubles, and finding great comfort at the hands of God thus said, It is good for me that thou O Lord hast chastised me. Psal. 119. vers. 71. Note his humility being crowned king by Samuel 1 King. 17. before Saul. 1. King. 19  
The prodigal child returning to his father humbled himself. Luke. 15.  
For other Examples, look Saul. 1. King. 9 Elisius, 4. King. 2.   

The seven. Plant, Patience.  
Definition THis virtue Patience is of great excellency amongst human kind, and best beseeming Christians; namely tending to this effect, that God may be duly obeyed in our adversities, so as we do nothing against the commandments of God, neither do heap upon us his heavy displeasure, but that for Christ his sons sake we should acknowledge him by saith, to be pacified and merciful unto us, that we should look for his help, and crave his mitigation of such afflictions as he in justice layeth upon us; and so in this Faith & hope should patiently bear whatsoever burden is laid upon us. For the word of God doth highly extol Patience, commands us to use the same, promiseth God's help and deliverance, and teacheth that the godly ones are not here afflicted by chance, but by the will & knowledge of God, not that we should perish, but that we should prospero more & more after perils, and as Saint Paul saith Rom. 8. being made like unto the son of God by afflictions, should with him be like partakers of eternal glory.  
Testimonies. A patiented man is better than one that is strong, and he that can rule his affections is of more force, than one that layeth siege unto Cities. Prou. 16.  
The Furnace trieth the vessel of the potter, so doth the trial of troubles prove those that are righteous. Ecc. 27  
Troubles worketh patience, patience maketh trial, and trial bringeth hope. Rom. 5.  
My Brethrens, count it for exceeding joy, when you fall into divers temptations, knowing that the trial of your faith worketh patience, and patience maketh your work perfect that you may be perfect and upright, not fainting in any thing. jam. 1.  
Now therefore keep secret thy sorrow within thee, and suffer manfully whatsoever chances shall happen unto thee. 3. Esdras. 10.  
Blessed is the man which suffereth temptation, because when he shall be tried, he shall receive a crown of life, which God hath promised unto all those that love him. jam. 1. ●2.  
Be patiented therefore one with an other, and confirm your hearts because the coming of the Lord is at hand. jam. 5.  
Examples. Our saviour Christ jesus, the most excellent mirror of perfect patience, was first tempted of Satan: Matth. 4. Despised, hated, and disdained of the wicked worldlings: joh. 17. and lastly persecuted and put to death by the cursed jews: Mar. 15 leaving us example that we should suffer injuries done unto us, and remit the revenge unto him that saith, Mine is vengeance, and I will reward again. etc. Deut. 32.  
Isaac suffered gladly that injury to be offered him, when his Father Abraham would have sacrificed him. Gen. 22.  
joseph patiently put up the cruelty of his brethren, when they sold him and would have put him into the pit. Gen. 37. 45.  
Moses' prayed for Mary which spoke so injustly against him, & by his prayer she was healed. Numb. 12.  
David fleeing from the face of Absalon said patiently unto Sadoch, If I find favour in the sight of the Lord, he will bring me again. 2. King. 15. 16.  
Tobias when he become blind showed a wonderful Patience under the Lord's scourge, and against the derision of his wife and his friends. Tob. 2. 3.  
Other notable Examples, were job. 1. 2. The three Children in the Oven. Dan. 5. and Eleazarus, 2. Machab. 6.   

The viii. Plant, Perseveration in godliness.  
Definition Perseveration or continuance of virtuous and godly life, is the limited path of perfection, which GOD requireth of all his chosen servants which have begun to run the race of righteousness, not to stay in the midst, neither to start aside, neither yet to look back at any time, but to go forwards without wavering, or distrust in the acknowledgement of God, and in the faith of Christ constantly and for ever, so continuing until the very last breath of our life, and not to be discouraged by any sinister chances or adversities, neither suffer ourselves to be seduced from so good a purpose by any manner of means; because whosoever have once tasted the comfortable sweetness of God's good graces, may be well assured if they continued with a steadfast faith in Christ unto the end, they shall inherit the promised reward, even the Crown of life for ever. Apo. 2.  
Testimonies. My sheep hear my voice, and I give them eternal life, & no man shall take them out of my hands. john. 10.  
God is faithful which suffereth not us to be tempted above our strength, but giveth an end with temptation, that we may be able to go thoroughly with our vocatious. Cor. 10.  
I will not leave you destitute of comfort but I will come unto you, I will pray my Father and he shall send unto you another comforter, even the spirit of truth which shall remain with you for ever. john. 14.  
My little Children despise not the correction of the Lord, nor faint not when thou art chastised, for the Lord chastiseth every son which he receiveth, Go on forwards in discipline, God offereth himself unto you as to his children, for what son is he whom the father chastiseth not. Heb. 12.  
Put upon you all the whole armour of God, that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and that you may stand steadfastly in all things that you have done. Ephe. 6.  
So run, that you may receive. 1. Cor. 9  
But whosoever continueth unto the end shallbe saved. Matt. 10.  
Examples. Our Lord and saviour Christ jesus, giving light to the borne blind person, by virtue of the holy Ghost made him constantly persever against the Pharisees and to withstand them.  
The Apostles constantly persevered in preaching, teaching, and working wonders in the name of Christ jesus passing from place to place, and from country to country. Acts. 1. 4. 11. 13. & 20.  
joseph (notwithstanding his Mistress whom he served, did daily molest & seek to discredit him) yet he for all that showed himself dutiful & faithful in his service, & continued so to his great preferment. Gen. 39  
David being sore rebuked of his elder brother, & also dissuaded from his purpose by Saul, did not yet any whit shrink from his purpose, but fought manfully & overcome Goliath. 1. King. 17.  
joab constantly persevered in the siege of Rabbath, till he had won the city. 2. King. 12. Also in the battle against Absalon. 2. King. 18.  
Although Nehemias was oftentimes hindered in building, yet he ceased not from his work till he had fully built up she wall. Nehemi 4. & 6.  
Eliachym the high Priest spoke unto all the people of Israel, saying, Know you that because the Lord hath heard our prayers, if you continue still in fasting & prayer in the sight of God. etc. judith. 4.  
The Sociates of Daniel, constantly said unto the King of Babylon, be it known unto thee O King that we worship not thy Gods. etc. Dan. 3.  
Other notable Examples were Daniel, Dan. 6. Susanna, Dan. 13. The seven. brethren, 2. Mac. 7. The blind borne, joh. 9 The Apostles, Acts. 1   

The ix. Plant, True Invocation upon God.  
Definition AS in the heart of man God (the true knowledge of God, fear, faith and love of God) aught to shine and fervently appear: So our Prayer is the most excellent instrumental mean or witness of the mind, & aught godly to confess and pronounce the Lord God, & aught rightly to use the name of God in all purity and sanctify or honour the same with all dutiful, reverent, and loving fear. For to that end hath God given the benefit of the tongue and speech unto men: especially, that they should declare the goodness of God towards them, that they should praise him in his holiness, pray unto him for continuance of his gracious goodness, & give thanks unto him for the same, & excite others unto the consideration of their duties in those respects. For God requireth that we should with thanksgiving, confession, supplications and prayers, come unto him, and to none other God, because he hath made us as the sheep of his hands, and people of his pasture. Psal. 94. vers. 7.  
Testimonies. Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. Matth. 4.  
Whilst thou livest & bearest breath, thou shalt confess thy sins unto God, and thou shalt praise him, & rejoice in his mercies, because great is the mercy of the Lord, and he helpeth and is gracious unto those that turn● unto him. Ecclesiastes. 17.  
Before thou prayest prepare thy soul, and be not as a man that tempteth God. Ibidem. 18.  
When thou prayest, thou speakest with God, when thou readest, God speaketh unto thee. Aug. sup. Psal. 85.  
Prayer is good with fasting and almose, yea of more valour it is then to heap up treasures of Gold. Tob. 12.  
The continual prayer of the just person prevaileth much. jam. 5.  
Great is the virtue of sincere prayer, for as a faithful messenger, performeth duty enjoined, and pierceth whether as no flesh can attain. August. super Psal. 65.  
Watch and pray, lest you fall into temptation. Matt. 26.  
Verily, verily I say unto you, whatsoever good thing you do ask of my father in my name, he shall surely give it you. john. 16.  
You shall pray for all men, especially for Kings and Princes and those in authority. 2. Tim. 2.  
Examples. Christ jesus our only Lord and saviour, in teaching his Apostles to pray, setteth us to school by that example how to pray. Luke. 11. Also he not only prayed for himself, that the cup of bitter persecution might pass from him: Matth. 26. but for his very enemies & persecutors he prayed. Luke. 23. Moreover he prayed for all those his chosen children which his father had given him, that they might be saved. john. 17.  
Paul the elect vessel of God, gave thanks unto God for all them of Thessalonia, & prayed for their prosperous proceeding in the faith. 1. Thessa, 1.  
Abraham prayed unto the Lord, to spare the Sodomites from destroying them. Gen. 18.  
jacob prayed unto the Lord, confessing his infirmity and want of ability. Gen. 32.  
Moses' prayed diverse times & was heard of the Lord. Exod. 7. 8. 9 10. 14. 17. 32. Num. 11. 12. 21.  
Samuel praying for the Israelites against the Philistians was heard of God 1. King. 7.  
King josophat fearing sore the power and multitude of his enemies, which he heard say came against him, prayed earnestly unto the Lord, and his prayer was heard. 2. Chro. 20.  
Manasses being king of juda, prayed marvelous humby, devoutly, & effectually with a repentant heart. 1. Chro. 23.  
Ezechias turning his face to the wall prayed unto the Lord bitterly weeping, & the Lord hearing him, granted his desire: 4. Kings. 20. namely long life and prosperity upon earth.  
For other examples of prayers, Anna, 1. King. 1. David, 2. Kin. 12. Idem, 2. King. Elyas, 3, Kin. 18. josophat, 2. Chro. 20. & Esdras, 1. Esdra. 1. 8. Nehemias, 1. jud. 4. & 8. Hester. 4. jeremy. 11. Daniel. 6. 9 13. jonas, judas Machabeus, 1. Mach. 4.   

The x. Plant, Thanks giving.  
Definition thanks giving is a virtue which aught to be evermore grounded in the heart & mind of man, and evermore ready to be uttered with the tongue, that good things are not bestowed upon us by chance, or by good hap as we use to say, but that God is rightly the author of all benefits. And that it is our duties by this our thankfulness to exhort & invite others to the due acknowledging and serving of the true God: that they may also persuade themselves, that it is God only which hath care over them, and that we are heard by him, if we crave any thing of him in faith. And therefore as he is altogether more ready to give, than we to receive, and more beneficial and gracious in giving, than we are thankful & dutiful towards him: so are we evermore debtor unto him, and never able to repay that we own him, howbeit sith he requireth a thankful heart and true repentant life according to his will, we aught never to be slack or slow, in testifying our uttermost power & good wills in giving of thanks for his benefits, and in living so thankfully, that his continued mercy may be a salve to our misery.  
Testimonies. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and give thanks in all things, for this is the will of God in Christ jesus towards you all. 1. Thessa. 5.  
What better thing may we bear in our mind, express with tongue, or set forth with pen, than Thanks be to God? Then this, nothing can be spoken more short, more joyfully heard, more thankfully understood, nor more fruitfully be performed. Augustine in Epist. ad Marcil.  
Let every one as he hath received the good grace of God, despise the same unto an other's benefit, as the good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 1. Pet. 4.  
The best conserver of benefits, is the remembrance of those benefits received, and the continual thankfulness which we aught to tender for the same. Chry. Homi. 25. super. Matt.  
I exhort you that you do always give thanks unto the Lord, if evil chances happen unto you, bless ye the Lord, & those evils shall be taken away, if prosperous good things happen unto you, bless the Lord, & they ●hall continued still with you. Chrys in tract. de Symbol.  
Thanksgiving is a most pure & perfect Balm, and therefore it requireth a pure sound, & profound vessel for the same. Brent. super Can.  
Examples. Christ jesus our Lord and Saviour oftentimes lifting up his eyes unto the Heavens, would give thanks, as in breaking the Bread, in multiplying of Bread to his Disciples, in reviving Lazarus, & in the institution of the holy Eucharist. Matt. 26.  
The Lord commanded that his deliverance of the Children of Israel out of Egypt, should never depart out of their minds. It shall be (saith he) as a sign in thy hand, and as a monument before thy eyes, that the law of the Lord may be ever in thy mouth. Exod. 13.  
Moses and the Israelites sung a song unto God, and said, Let us sing unto the Lord, that is to say, after they had marvelously passed through the read Sea. Exod. 20.  
David when he heard the Revelation which God made unto Nathan touching the continuance of his kingdom, gave very humble & devout thanks therefore unto God. 2. King. 7.  
We aught here in England to praise God greatly for his goodness, which prospereth the reign of our so gracious sovereign lady Queen Elizabeth, according to that saying, Blessed be God which hath given us David a most wise Prince to govern the people, etc. 3. Kin. 1. and 15.  
When Tobias had recovered again his sight, both he, his wife, & all they which before had seen him blind, glorified GOD. Tob. 11.  
For other Examples of Thanksgiving, look Cyrus, 1. Esdras. 1. The Israelites, judith. 16. Nabuchodonozer. Dan. 2. judas Machabeus. 2. Mach. 1. The blessed virgin Mary, Luk. 1. Zacharias, Luke. 1. Matt. 9 Luk. 7. and other places.   

The xi. Plant, True Preaching.  
Definition TRue Preaching is the message of the great God and embassage of the highest King of kings: & the same is an office of effectual virtue & virtuous effect of glad tidings, and of salvation bestowed upon mankind, by the Almighty Messiah in the light of his holy law and Gospel revealed, and in the true testification of his grace and gracious goodness towards man, as S. Paul describeth the same more amply in the 1. Cor. 14. & 1 Tim. 4. That is to say, it consisteth in Doctrine, Exhortation, and consolation: and thereunto is applied the exposition or interpretation of any part or portion of the Scriptures. The efficient causes of which office and function duly applied are these. The holy Ghost by the will of God enjoining the Apostles first to perform this office. Mat. 10 The tongue which aught to be the trumpet sounding the glory of God his wrath towards sinners, and mercy towards those that hear his will and fulfil the same. The faithfulness, diligence, and constancy by the Preacher observed herein, to the end that God may be obeyed, rightly honoured and acknowledged, & that many souls may be won as coheir with Christ in his kingdom for ever.  
Testimonies. And the Lord said, I will raise unto them a prophet out of their Brethrens, which shall be like unto thee, and I will put my words in his mouth, and he shall speak unto them all those things which I shall prescribe him: and he that will not hear him speaking in my name, I will be revenged upon him. Deut. 18.  
How beautiful upon the hills are the feet of him that bringeth & preacheth peace? Esay. 52.  
Man liveth not by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. Luk. 4.  
Thou shalt hear the word proceeding out of my mouth, and thou shalt tell it them from me. Ezech. 3  
Go your ways throughout all the world, preach the Gospel to every creature, teaching all nations & baptizing them. Matt. 28.  
Reprove, Exhort, blame, and rebuke with all patience, and doctrine. 1. Tim. 5.  
For the word of God is lively and effectual, and pierceth more than doth a two edged sword, entering even into the division of the soul & the spirit, etc. Heb. 4.  
Examples. jesus Christ our Redeemer and Saviour, coming into this world to call sinners to repentance, first preached the Gospel and delivered the Law unto the Prophets, 
Luke. 5.  he himself affirming, that he is the true light of the world, whom who so did follow should have light of life. john. 8.  
john Baptist preached repentance, and the kingdom of GOD in the desert of judaea and prevailed therein. Matt. 3.  
The twelve Apostles were sent of the Lord to preach, & had power given them to cast out unclean spirits, & to heal the diseased by virtue of the holy Ghost and efficacy of the Gospel, and namely these for the testimony of the truth suffered persecution, Saint Peter was crucified, S. Paul at Rome beheaded, Saint james the brother of our Lord stoned at Jerusalem, 
Pantaleon in Chronographia Eccisiae.  james the brother of john be headed there: S. Philippe in Scythia, S. Bartholmewe in India. S. Mathias in judaea, S. Andrew in Scythia, S. Matthew in Aethiopia, suffered martyrdom, all within the space of 85. years after the birth of Christ.  
jonas was sent of the Lord to preach at Ninive, forty days respite before they should be destroyed, and yet the Lord knew that they would repent, whereby he spared them, and withdrew his scourge. jonas. 3  
For other Examples, look in Acts. 2. 3. 4. 5. and 11. besides other places in Paul, Peter, james, and john, concerning Preaching.   

The xii. Plant, Confession unto God.  
Definition COnfession, is a constant and perpetual desire (while we bear about us this earthly and corruptible tabernacle of the flesh) to acknowledge the true doctrine of the Gospel before God and man, and to confess our sins and manifold infirmities unto God, who only is the promised comforter in our miseries, the only redeemer of us from sin, death, and hell, and the only saviour of our souls and bodies in this life unto life everlasting. And this confession aught to be so fervent in our minds, hearts, and souls, that no self-love of ourselves aught to reject the same. It aught to be so frequented in our conversations, that no worldly suggestions ought to seduce more or abandon us from fructifying therein. It aught so to shine in all manner of perfection amongst the faithful which savour of Christ and sincere living, that the very infidels (if by any possible means it may be) might by our godly life and virtuous examples be conquered unto Christ in this world, that we with them and they with us acknowledging, confessing, and firmly believing in one eternal and everliving God (as one sheepfold under one shepherd Christ jesus) may be gathered together in one faith against his coming, to be called not only but also to be adopted Citizens of the heavenly Jerusalem. Apoc. 12.  
Testimonies. The Lord spoke unto Moses' saying, speak thou unto the sons of Israel. The man or the woman when they have done concerning all the sins which were wont to happen unto men, and have by negligence transgressed the commandments of the Lord, and have done offence they shall confess their sins unto me. Num. 5.  
He that confesseth me before men, I will acknowledge him before my father which is in Heaven: and who soever denieth me before men, him will I also deny before my father which is in Heaven. Matt. 10.  
with the heart do we believe unto righteousness, but with the mouth we confess unto salvation. Every one that putteth his trust in him shall not be ashamed. Rom. 10.  
Confession worketh the health of the souls, is the vanquisher of vices, the restorer of virtues, the scourge against the Devils, what more? It stoppeth the jaws of Hell, and openeth the gates of that celestial Paradise. August. lib. De poenitentia.  
Let thy confession be simple, humble, pure, faithful & frequent, naked, discreet, gladly, shamefast, upright, secret, mournful, speedy, strong, accusing thyself, and prepared to punish itself by repentance. Item, who, what, where by whom, how often, why, how and when, to profit others by faith. Bar. Amantius.  
Who so hideth his sins shall not be saved, but he that confesseth them and forsaketh them, shall obtain mercy. Prou. 28.  
Examples. Adam was admonished of the Lord, after he had sinned to acknowledge his fault, but he after a sort laid it upon God & upon his wife, and his wife upon the serpent, but afterwards he repented himself. Gen. 3.  
Pharaoh the tyrant confessed that he had sinned against God, and the Israelites acknowledging God to be a just God, and that he & his people were wicked. Exo. 9  
Tobias, although he feared God from his infancy, & kept his commandments, yet he humbly said acknowledging his faults: We have not done according to thy commandments, & we have not walked sincerely before thy face. Tob. 3.  
The three Children and Sociates of Daniel, which lived so holy amongst the Chaldeans (and for whom the Lord had wrought such a marvel in the furnace,) did not at all murmur against the Lord, as though they had suffered such things unjustly, but Azarias said, We have sinned, we have done wickedly. Dan. 3.  
Other notable Examples of Acknowledging & confessing Gods mercies and wrath for sins, are extant in Daniel. 9 2. Mach. 2. Matt. 3. &. 8. Luke. 15. and 17. S. Paul and other the Apostles of Christ, whose constant confession of Christ and his Gospel, won very many to the faith.   

The xiii. Plant, Obedience.  
Definition OBedience towards God's laws and also the ordinances of superior power, as Kings, Princes, magistrates, and officers appointed in the ministery to the honour of God, and common utility of all men, is a most special, necessary, and godly mean to make us both to know God, our duties towards him, and to fear his judgements: as also in him and for him to acknowledge our duties towards those that have his authority over us upon earth: and consequently every one in his vocation to use all dutiful submission towards his better and superior, that God may thereby be glorified, and the common wealth fortified against assaults of the devil, invasions of foreign enemies against civil disobedience and discord; for to obey the will of God in righteousness of life, is the perfect fruit of righteousness unto life everlasting: And to obey the will of superior power in the righteousness of God, heapeth up the blessings of peace, plenty, prosperous, joyful, and happy welfare, never decaying, but more and more increasing unto the perfection of the life everlasting, which duties who so doth not observe, are not only cursed of God, worthily punished by him, & by man for him in this life, but are rejected as reprobate from the blessed society of Christ and his elect for ever.  
Testimonies. Obedience is better than sacrifice. 1. King. 15.  
Who so keepeth the commandments of God, shall not suffer any evil. Eccle. 8.  
The obedient person shall glory in victory over his enemies. Prou. 21.  
We aught to obey God more than men. Acts. 5.  
Give unto Caesar that which is Caesar's; & unto God that which is God's Luke. 2.  
Let every soul submit themselves unto the higher powers, for there is no power but of God, the powers that be, are ordained of God, therefore who so resisteth the higher powers resisteth the ordinance of God, which who so resisteth shall receive damnation. Rom. 13.  
I exhort you that prayers, petitions, supplications & thanksgivings be made for all men, but especially for Kings, & all that are set in authority under them, that you may live a peaceable and quiet life, with all godliness & honesty. 1. Tim. 2.  
Obedience is not to be put in ure with servile fear, but with entire affection of love, not for fear of pains or punishment but for very love towards justice. Grego. lib. 12. moralium.  
If thou wilt be wise therefore, be obedient: for so it is written, Desirest thou wisdom, keep his commandments, and the Lord shall give it unto thee. Ber. in sermo. de Epiphania.  
Examples. Our saviour Christ obediently went with his parents unto Jerusalem & was subject unto them. Luc. 2.  
Because Abraham obeyed the voice of God, & kept his precepts & commandments, therefore the Lord promised Isaac that he would multiply his seed as the fltars of heaven, & he said also, I will give all the nations upon earth unto thy posterity, & all the nations of the earth shallbe blessed in thy seed. Gen. 26.  
Noah diligently obeyed the Lord in all things which he commanded him to do before the deluge, and he was saved. Gen. 6. 7.  
The children of Israel promised great obedience, saying, All things which the Lord hath spoken, we will do, & we will be obedient, but afterwards with their works they did contrary, for they worshipped the golden calf, but they smarted for it. Exod. 24. & 32.  
Because Achan transgressed the commandment of josua the Lords anointed, therefore he was overcome in battle and afterwards stoned to death of the people. josu. 7.  
Saul offering burnt sacrifice against the commandment of Samuel appointed of the Lord was made a reprobate. Likewise because he spared Agag the king of Amelech, the stock of sheep, and other precious things, and then said Samuel unto him, Obedience is better than sacrifice. 1. King. 13.  
The Apostles obediently left their nets, & followed Christ our Lord. Matt. 4.  
For other examples of Obedience, look Abraham, Goe 17. 22, Moses, Exo. 34. Numb. 9 David, 1. King. 15. 17. the man of God, 3. Reg. 13. Naaman. 4. King. 5. Tobias. 1. Hester. 2 and the Recabites, jere. 35.   

The xiiii. Plant, Concord.  
Definition Concord is a virtue, which esteeming very humbly of herself, restraineth and moderateth anger, charitably bearing with others infirmities, forgiving very injuries, maintaineth peace of conscience, and common tranquillity: and is earnestly stubious that neither any thing be committed by us offensive to the state of the Church and common wealth, neither that any injury shall be offered by one or other to the disturbance let or hindrance of any good proceeding, which is a gift so excellent beseeming men, that in the increase thereof, the society of mankind is compared to a second heaven, even upon earth: and every soul that seeketh the due observation of Concord is compared to an Angel of Heaven. For as the three persons intrinitie is one Godhead and one majesty divine, under whom all the Angels in heaven agreed in mutual unity and concord of mind: So aught mankind upon earth, serving this God in trinity, and trinity in unity, be of mutual concord in him, & in all things which he bestoweth upon us for our welfare, to show natural agreement of mind one towards an other to his glory.  
Testimonies. Be you of like mind one towards an other, having charity, being of one will, and of one understanding, let every one by lowliness deem others to be better, neither let any of you regard his own commodity so much, but every one of you regard the commodity of others. Phi. 3.  
I beseech you for our Lord jesus Christ's sake, that you be at concord and unity one with an other, & that there be no dissensions amongst you, but that you be all one perfect body, of one mind & purpose in the Lord 1. Cor 2.  
Follow peace and concord with all men, and embrace holiness of life, without which no man shall see God. Heb. 12.  
He that hath not peace in heart, word, and work, aught not to be called a Christian, he that hopeth not in this putteth both his foot yea and his whole life in a slippery place, he anchoureth his Ship in a tempestuous Sea, he ensnareth himself in the pit of destruction, and soweth his seed in the sand. Augustinus.  
As there is nothing more precious unto God than the virtue of loving concord, so the devil desireth nothing more than the extinction of loving concord. Gre. in Past.  
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shallbe called the children of God. Mat. 5.  
Examples. Our Lord and Saviour Christ jesus commanded his disciples to have peace amongst themselves. Mar. 9  
When the fifty days were come to an end, the Apostles were all of one mind at Jerusalem, and there appeared unto them cloven tongues like fire, & they lighted upon them, & they were all filled with the holy Ghost. Act. 2.  
The Angels at the birth of Christ brought glad tidings of peace, saying, Glory to God on high, on earth peace, and unto men a good william. Luc. 2.  
The Gabaonites hearing what josua had done at Hierico and at Hai, came unto him, and as his servants, made an acceptable peace with him. josu. 9  
Phinees & others the Ambassadors which were sent unto Rubens sons, hearing their excuse were pacified, and heard their words with a great good william. josu. 22.  
The people blessed all those persons, which offered themselves voluntarily to come and devil in Jerusalem, which was interpreted the vision of peace. Nehemi. 11.  
The cause of peace which was in the time of Onyas, is excellently describe: namely, the ready gracious good will of a wise and godly prince, & the goodness of such subjects, 2. Mach. 3.  
God is greatly to be praised, when he giveth to his people quietness, peace, & concord, as it was with Solomon & his people. 3. Kin. 5.  
David exhorteth the faithful to pray for the peace of Israel. Psal. 121.   

The xv. Plant, Amity.  
Definition amity or friendship is a virtue, which rendereth due benevolence for mutual good will received between man and man, and bringeth forth the communicating of human society, after such sort that in nature it sociateth man with God, it maketh the Country church and common wealth in respect of the Law, equal to the heavenly habitacle of the most highest: and in use, it maketh neighbours, companions of one office, and brothers of one society, to prospero with many mutual benefits upon Earth: so as in common she maketh a firm knot of indissoluble felicity upon earth. Especially if they hold fast the link of fidelity, which aught to appear in word, work and good will, for this virtue hath wonderful effects even in the very brute and unreasonable creatures, which do associate themselves with their like of kind, which do nourish and defend one another, and which do as it were strive with nature, to overcome nature in natural affections, and natural conditions. How much more than in due benevolence one towards another aught the worthy will and mind of man, resembling outwardly the image of the Creator of all creatures, both by word and work recompense all dutiful deserts, deserved good will from time to time.  
Testimonies. Thou shalt love thy friend as thyself. Levit. 19  
Study not to work any evil against thy friend, seeing he puts his trust in thee. Pro. 3  
Who so is a friend indeed, at all times will show friendship, & a brother is tried and known in adversity. Prou. 18.  
A faithful friend is a strong defence, who so findeth such a one, findeth a treasure. Eccle. 6.  
Who so taketh away or withdraweth mercy from his friend, forsaketh the fear of God. job. 7.  
Better are the zealous stripes of him that loveth faithfully, than the flattering kisses of him that hateth extremely. Pr. 17  
Amity is sweet by reason of the unity of many minds. Augst. lib. 3 conf..  
A certain person spoke rightly & well of his friend, when he termed him the one half of his soul, for I understand that my soul and the soul of my friend are both one soul in two bodies by reason of the earnest affection of love. Ibidem.  
That is a right and necessary member of amity, which is joined with the glue of Christ, which not the utility of worldly substance, not the present of bodies only, nor the deceitful and hollow-harted flattery, but with the fear of God and zeal of his holy word coupleth together. Hier. ad Paulinum.  
Examples. The galatians showed such tokens of true friendship unto Paul, as he confessed that they received him, as if he had been an Angel. etc. Gal. 4.  
Onesipherus his family in the zeal of God oftentimes refreshed Paul, and visited him when he lay in prison. Phillip 4.  
Ruth bore such faithful friendship in the Lord to his wives mother Noemi, and said unto her, Wheresoever thou goest, I will go with thee: and wheresoever thou tarriest I will tarry with thee also. Ruth. 1.  
The soul of jonathas and the soul of David was of faithfully fixed each to others, that jonathas stripped himself of his own cote to give it unto David. 1. King 18.  
Abner sent Messengers unto David saying, Be friends with me, and my hands shall be with thee, and I will bring all Israel unto thee. 2. King. 3.  
The 3. friends of job when they heard of all the evil which had happened unto him, they came every one from his dwelling place, and vizited him with comfort. job. 2. 6.  
The Lord commended the unjust Steward which got himself friends by the wise disposing of his masters goods: so likewise aught every faithful Christian justly to seek the loving favour of God in this life time, that we may be delivered from death eternal, to live with him in joy and bliss for ever. Luke. 16.   

The xuj. Plant, Gratitude.  
Definition GRatitude or thankfulness is the true testimony of dutiful good will to be rendered in and for any benefit bestowed upon the inferior person by any of better calling. And it is a virtue of excellent effect, even amongst meanest persons, which acknowledging good will or any benefit privately bestowed, do also count themselves bounden debtors towards regratifying like good will, & so far as ability extendeth do requited the same, which proceedeth not but from a worthy mind obeying the commandment of God, & the law of nature enjoining the observation of true meaning and equality of good will, which are the necessary means whereby human kind is conserved and preserved which aught also to be testified by speech as the instrument of the mind, and by external gifts as the comprobation and satisfaction of both their expectations. Now the matter or ground whence Gratitude groweth to be considered off, containeth seven several particularities: First, God, 2. our Parents, 3. our Schoolmasters, 4. our Magistrates, 5. Ministers of the Church, 6. our Country, and seventhly our benefactors and friends, which calling this dutiful regratulation & repensation, lest we incur that penalty of Ingratitude which threateneth, The plague shall not depart from the house of the unthankful. Prou. 17.  
Testimonies. To him that giveth or bestoweth any benefit, there can nothing be requited more thankful by the receiver, than as if he take that acceptably, which was bestowed willingly and with a good william. For he doth injury the spirit of grace, which taketh not with thankful mind that benefit of him that bestoweth it. Ber. and Imericum cancel.  
A wise man will examine all things with himself, how much he hath received, of whom, when, where, what and how: Therefore we deny that no man can give thanks or be thankful but a wiseman. Seneca ad Luci. episto. 8.  
The remembrance of benefits received aught never to wax old. Idem lib, de beneficiis.  
A good turn done or friendly benevolence bestowed, aught evermore to be had in remembrance. Ibidem.  
We aught to tender all possible requital, although we can not tender sufficient worthily, as towards God & our Parents we are not able to tender equal. Aristot.  
For towards God, our Parents, and masters we can not make due requital. Aristo. 8. &. 9 Ethicorum.  
Unto whom so great thanks can not be given as is due, to them yet must we yield such possible thanks, as our minds are able to comprehend. Cicero in Phil.  
Examples. Our Saviour jesus Christ the fountain of all grace and goodness, for the entire sorrow & repentance of Mary Magdalen and other testimonies of love towards him, forgave her her sins. Luc. 7.  
Pharaoh a very tyrannical King, did notwithstanding thankfully reward joseph for expounding his dream, and highly exalted him. Gen. 41.  
jethro the Priest of the Madianites was thankful for that cause, whereas Moses had saved and defended his daughters, when they went to water their flock, whereupon he made him to be called home to his house, to eat meat with him, and gave him one of his daughters in marriage. Exod. 5.  
David said unto Abiathar whose father loved the same David, tarry with me & fear not, if any man seek to take away thy life, he shall also take away mine. 1. King. 22.  
By reason of the great good will that David bore to jonathas the son of Saul, he made inquiry if there were any of his kindred yet alive, yea or not, and he ordained Miphiboseth the son of jonathas to be a continual guest at his table. 2. King. 9  
The Queen of Saba brought many gifts unto Solomon, and he to gratify her good will, gave her all such things as she desired, except those things which she of her voluntary good will, had brought him as a Princely present. 3. King. 10.   

The xvii. Plant, Hospitality.  
Definition Hospitality is rightly termed friendly entertainment of equal personages, and charitable harbouring of inferior persons for some good consideration: although nature hath generally appointed all men a resting place for a time (as Cicero saith) and not a continual dwelling place upon earth. And this is used amongst men after two manners, the one necessary without necessity, as in entertaining those wealth which travel from place to place in worldly affairs & are able to requited it. The other needful and not unnecessary, in harbowring the poor abjects of this world, either impotent, sick, sore, or otherwise, constrained to seek relief, help & succour, which are not able of themselves to requited so charitable deeds. Although yet who so showeth compassion and succour upon such: to them doth Christ our Saviour acknowledge and confess, saying, That they gave him to eat when he was an hungered, they gave him drink when he was thirsty, clothed him being naked, vizited him being sick, and harboured him being comfortless, for the which cause he shall say unto them, Come ye blessed of my father etc. Matt. 25.  
Testimonies. The Scripture now and then commendeth unto us this virtue Hospitality: namely, Moses said unto the people: Love thou strangers, because thou and thy brethren were strangers in the land of Egypt. Deut. 10.  
Forget not Hospitality, for by means thereof have some received even very Angels as guests unto them. Heb. 13.  
Before all things, have mutual charity one towards an other, in all godliness and honesty. etc. Be harborours' one towards an other without grudging. 1. Pet. 4.  
Well-beloved thou dost well, what soever thou workest towards thy brethren, and specially such as are strangers. joh. 3.  
Hospitality is so thankfully acceptable before God, that not so much as a cup of cold water given with good will, but it shall be rewarded again and recompensed fine fold. Amb. li. de Officiis.  
Look what reward he hath at God's hand which travaileth in God's behalf, such a reward hath he and shall have, which entertaineth well such a travailer, and their recompense shallbe equal, both his which he relieveth for God's sake, and his which travaileth for God's sake. john Chrysost. super Mat.  
Learn therefore without curiosity good Christian to minister hospitality, jest happily he whom thou shuttest out of thy house, and whom thou deniest such charitable relief, be Christ himself. 1. August: contra haereses.  
Examples. Our Saviour jesus Christ sending forth his disciples, affirmed to preach, whosoever succoured them, succoured him: and whosoever despised them, despised him. Luke 10. when he himself went through the world, having not where to lay his head, he was lodged at Martha's house. Luke. 9  
Abraham very diligently and gladly received Angels into his house, and caused such things as was needful and necessary for them being strangers too be ministered unto them. Gen. 18.  
Loath also entertaining Angels into his house, whom he thought had been men, did so honour them, and so worthily entreat them offering all things that were needful for them. Therefore was he saved from the fiery plague of Sodom. Gen. 19  
Rebecca also ministered godly help of hospitality unto those strangers which she received, furnishing them with lodging, man's meat, and Horse meat for the time of their abode. Gen. 24.  
jethro with small entreaty or petition made received Moses guestwise, for the which cause both jethros daughter and his Nephews were by Moses greatly advanced and hand in reputation. Exod. 9 2.  
The spies which josua sent forth were friendly and faithfully entertained by the harlot Raab, and afterward let go again. Ios. 2. & 6.  
Zacheus gladly received our Lord jesus into his house, and the same our Saviour much more made him rejoice again saying, This day is health happened into this house. Luke. 19  
For other notable examples of hospitality look judicum 19 as Benjamin in Gaba, Elias. 3. King. 17. the Sunanite, 4. King. 4. job. 31. the Apostles, Act. 10.   

The xviii. Plant, Liberality.  
Definition Liberality is that virtue which proceedeth from good will or affection of the mind, of him which favoureth either necessity, utility, honesty, decency, or sincere godliness especially, not so much weighing the private satisfaction of a man's own mind as in bestowing his liberality to the effectual relief, help, commodity and comfort of others, according to his power and ability, in giving and rewarding not so much for worldly praise to be spoken of, as of mere good will for virtuous consideration, respecting what to give, where to give, when, and to whom and wherefore. For we aught to take heed, as Seneca saith, that we deal not our alms at a wrong door, that is to say in bestowing benefits in vain, as in giving weapons too women, books to ploughmen, and nets too them which be given to studies of learning. Therefore who so in bestowing their benefits have these considerations, they surely saith Cicero which for zeal to virtue and godly studies, are bountiful and beneficial in this manner, these men how much they profit many others, so many more worthy helpers and well willers shall they gain unto themselves, and again by custom of this beneficencye shall they be better prepared, and as it were better exercised to deserve well of many men Cicero lib. Offici.  
Testimonies. Richeses well bestowed and to good use, do gain many friends to him that so employeth them Prover. 19  
For distribution of alms to the poor, read Eccle. 4.  
For God loveth a cheerful giver. 1. Cor. 7  
Let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doth. Mat. 7.  
Let thy wellsprings flow abroad, and thy rivers into the streets. prover. 5.  
give, and it shallbe given unto you, etc. Luke. 6. Minister unto the necessity of the holy ones of God. Rom. 12.  
Forget not due benevolence and good will one towards an other: for with such sacrifices is God pleased. Heb. 13.  
Break thy bread unto the hungry. Esay. 58.  
Every one of a good purpose and meaning that is to say willingly and frankly bestow your benefits, not grudging or with compulsion. 1. Cor. 7.  
Liberality is not defined in the quantity of the benevolence given, but in the quality of zeal or affection in him that giveth. Hier. de viduis.  
That is called perfect liberality, when a man with silence concealeth his benefits employed for the necessities of others, whom the poor man's mouth commendeth and not his own lips.  
Moreover perfect liberality is commended by faith, because by the convenient place and time especially towards the household of faith. Ambro. lib. 1. de offici.  
Examples. Our Lord and Saviour Christ jesus the lively and most large fountain of liberality performed and always will perform, a hundred fold in this life, and life everlasting in in the world to come, to all such as for his sake shall forsake all worldly goodds to follow him. Mat. 19 Mar. 10. & Luke 18.  
Zacheus was very liberally disposed, when he said unto the Lord: Behold Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor, & if I have done any man wrong, I restore him four fold. Luke 19  
The children of Israel with a diligent and godly mind offered their devotions to build the work of the Tabernacle, and whatsoever else was nccessarie for the ceremonial use thereof, so that the workmen were enforced to say unto Moses, the people offereth more than is necessary or needful. Exod. 25. 36.  
To bias endeavoured to impart unto the brethren of his kindred such things as they needed, he also fed the hungry and clothed the naked as appeareth. Tobi. 1  
Godly, liberal, and merciful was job unto the poor saying: I have been a comfort unto the heart of the widow, and a father of the poor job. 29. 31.  
The widows Mite was a slender token of benevolence, and yet esteemed by Christ with the gifts of rich men. Luke 21.  
The Apostles against a dearth, determined to secure the brethren in judaea with corn, which they sent by Barnab. & Saul Act. 11.   

The xix, Plant. Mercy.  
Definition MErcy is a worthy virtue which may be rightly called not only a grief of mind conceived, sorrowing for an others misery & calamity, especially of good, godly, learned, honest and virtuous persons, but also effectually working by external mean to help, relieve, comfort & secure others, so far as equity & brotherly charity may extend. This mercy and compassion saith Lactantius Firmianus lib. 6. cap. 12. is a singular ornament appertaining unto justice, to secure and defend the Orphans, Widows and helpless, because the whole law of GOD so commandeth. Besides these as Cicero saith, we aught to be merciful unto those especially which by reason of infortunity, casualty of goods, or loss of lives, either for extreme miseries (and not for any manner of trespass against God, and man grievously committed) do stand in need of our commiseration. This virtue thus rightly to use (saith he) of many virtues is mercy more wondered and more gracious. For men do not in any thing more resemble or come near unto the likeness of God, then in relieving and showing mercy one towards an other. Herein fortune hath nothing greater whereof she may, nor nature any thing better whereof she would impart from her own breasts Cicero in Oratio. pro. Qu. Ligurio.  
A great travel is there ordained for all men, and a great burden for all the children of Adam, from the day of their birth, until the day of their grave the mother of all things. Eccle. 40.  
Mercy and truth shall preserve the King, and with mercy his Throne shall be established for ever. prover. 20.  
Blessed are the merciful, because they shall receive mercy. Mat. 5.  
Go rather and learn what that meaneth: I will have mercy and not sacrifice. Mat. 9  
forgive your offenders with mercy as equity requireth, & you yourselves shall have your offences forgiven you. Luk. 6.  
Who so hath this worlds good and seeth his brother's need, and shall shut his compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in that man. john 1. 3.  
Mercy is the safeguard of health, the Ornament of faith, the offered satisfaction by Christ for our sins. This is she which commendeth the just, strengtheneth the holy ones, and advanceth the worshippers or servants of God. joh. Chrysost. super Matthaeum.  
Mercy is there more bountiful, where faith is more ready. Nothing so much commendeth a Christian, as the charitable mercy of one man towards another. Ambro. de officiis.  
Examples. Our Saviour and redeemer Christ jesus, the most excellent mirror of mild mercy, by his example biddeth us to be merciful, because (saith he) your heavily father is merciful. Luke. 6. Also saying, you shall find rest unto your souls in so doing. Mat. 11.  
So had he compassion upon the woman whose son was dead, when he said unto her, weep not, so that he raised her son from death to life. Luke 7.  
Unto the sick of the Palsy, did he show also his marvelous mercy, both in curing his disease and forgiving his sins. Mat. 9  
Upon the woman diseased with the bloody Issue, upon the two blind, and upon the possessed with a dumb spirit, did he work his wondered mercies, to the great admiration of the multitude standing by. Mat. 9  
Reuben and judas were moved with natural compassion to withstand the other brethren which would have slain their brother joseph, whom although they brought not again to their father, yet by their means his life at that time was saved. Gen. 37.  
When the children of Israel had taken 200000. of their enemies, men, women & children prisoners, they spared them, & sent them back again unto their own dwelling places appareling them and relieving them. 2. Par. 2.  
Nehemias hearing of the miserable state of the City of Jerusalem, wept many days, & both procured opportune help and counsel to remedy the distressed state thereof. Neh. 1. 2.   

The xx. Plant, innocency.  
Definition innocency is a most notable virtue, signifying that pureness of mind which abhorreth from all revenge of private injury done to us by any man, & not only in ourselves, aught this to be for our soul's salvation, for the safeguard of our own life, goods, and good name, but also inasmuch as in us lieth, we are bound to instruct, teach and exhort this virtue unto all others, that by all good means they may be harmless of thought, deed and word free from offence, blame, or shame. So aught we to have Adam's innocency in our minds: before he was tempted how clear he was, and when he tasted the fruit how much he had defiled himself. Wherefore let us always live like little infants in respect of true innocency (which as SAINT Hierom. saith) proceed not in wrath, remember not harms done to them, lust not after the eye, think not one thing and speak an other. This innocency except we have (saith S. Herome) we shall not as the children of God enter into the kingdom of heaven. super Matt. cap. 18.  
Testimonies. Blessed are ye when men revile you, and shall falsely speak all manner of evil against you for my sake. Mat. 5. ●●.  
Verily I say unto you, except ye repent and become as little children, you shall not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. Mat. 18. 3.  
Who so receiveth one of these little ones in my name, receiveth me. And who so offendeth one of these little ones, which believeth in me, it were meet that a Millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were cast into the bottom of the Sea ibidem. ●. 6.  
You have heard how it hath been said, an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth, But I say unto you resist not evil with evil. Mat. 5.  
The simple believe every word, so long as the innocent clean unto righteousness, they shall not be ashamed. Pro 14.  
See that you tender not evil for evil, but always persist in doing good. 1. Thes. 5.  
Who is innocent? he which neither hurteth others, nor himself, for he that hurteth himself, is not innocent. Aug. super Psal. 35.  
Be glad of thine innocency and rejoice, be glad I say, because she is harmless in every place, & safe in every place. If thou be tempted, thou profitest: if thou be'st brought low, thou shalt be exalted, if thou fightest, thou winnest: if thou be slain, thou shalt be crowned. Chrysost in Homil. Lord who shall enter into thy holy hill even he that is innocent of his hands and pure of heart, which hath not taken his soul in vain, nor hath sworn to deceive his neighbour, he shall receive blessing from the Lord and mercy from God his Saviour. Psal. 25.  
That most innocent Lamb Christ jesus our Saviour in whose mouth was found none evil, & in whose heart was found no guile, both lived in innocency as he taught, & died in inno encie for our example, that we should refuse no damage, danger, nor injury for the testimony of a good conscience towards God in true innocency of life. Mat. 23. john 19  
Susanna was innocent from that heinous fact, wherewith the false judges charged her: for testimony of which truth God sent Daniel his servant to diiudicate the cause of her innocency, and to condemn the false judges of their mischievous malice. Dan. 13.  
David served Saul in all innocency, truth, & fidelity, a long time: yet was he persecuted by him, but in the end he was crowned king after Saul. 1. Reg. 28. usque, ad 26. cap.  
joseph was also innocent, just, & faithful towards his Master: albeit his Mistress went about to tempt him & procure revenge upon him, for not fulfilling her pleasure. But the Lord preferred his innocency that he found far more grace & favour both with God & man. Gen 39  
job both just and innocent before GOD, though Satan desired God that he might diversly touch him with vexation & adversity, yet did he never depart from his innocency, but walked uprightly, glorified God and believed in his Saviour. job. 1. & 2.   

The xxi. Plant. Good counsel.  
Definition GOod counsel is a rare & excellent virtue, privately, necessary, & publicly beneficial proceeding of good desire to do well▪ to establish that which is present, to prevent that which is to come, and to provide for the safety of sincere good meaning, that no sinister means of evil, molest, cirumvent or endamage the same. This good counsel aught he to seek that wanteth it in due time. And this good counsel aught he that hath it, to give it in due time. For as Solomon saith, Words spoken in due time are like apples of gold in a silver dish. And that worthy Sallust admonished his friends first to ask counsel, before they begun any thing, and when they had taken counsel, to dispatch their purpose quickly. He that will do any thing well therefore, let him also consider, that as in delay to seek counsel bringeth danger, and in rash taking counsel bringeth repentance: so to work by good counsel in due time bringeth expected comfort & commodity from time to time. Let us crave this good counsel of the holy Ghost the comforter, that in all thoughts, words and works we may glorify God, and edify ourselves, and our christian brethren also.  
Testimonies. My son, do nothing without counsel, and thou shalt not repent thee after the deed. Eccle. 32.  
Give ear unto counsel, and receive discipline, that thou mayest be wise in the last days. Prou. 9  
Even as water is in the deep, so is counsel in the heart of man: But who so is wise, shall draw out the same. Prou. 20.  
The wise man doth all things with counsel: But he that is foolish, discovereth his folly. Prou. 13.  
The heart of man with ointment and sundry sweet odours is made glad: so is the soul comforted with the good counsels of a friend. Prou. 27.  
A sweet word multiplieth friends, & mitigateth enemies, & a gracious tongue, aboundeth in a good man. Have thou as many friends as thou canst get, & but one counselour of a thousand. Eccle. 6.  
Let not the good counsel of the aged escape thy hearing, for they have learned of their fathers ', because of them also, ●hou shalt learn understanding and in time of need shalt thou give answer. Eccle. 8.  
Through counsels are the determinations of men established, & with discreet government are wars to be taken in hand. Prou. 20.  
There is no wisdom, there is no understanding, there is no counsel against the Lord. Prou. cap. 21.  
Examples. Our Lord and Saviour Christ jesus that most pure fountain of comfortable good counsel, when by preaching and teaching the will of his heavenly father, he was sent to distribute the free salvation of mankind, in the end of one sermon made by him upon the Mount: he pronounced this counsel to our everlasting comfort: viz. Every one which heareth my words and doth the same, shall be compared unto a wise man, that buildeth his house upon a rock. Mat. 7.  
jacob harkened unto the counsels of hid mother, working all things accordingly. And it came to pass that the Lord prospered him greatly therein. Gen. 27.  
Reuben hearing the evil determinations of his other brethren against joseph resisting the same, gave counsel rather that he should be sold, whereby it fell out, that his life was saved, and he afterward become a comfortable helper of his brethren. Gen. 37.  
jethro gave good counsel unto Moses, for the welfare of the people of Israel, worthy of imitation. Exod. 18.  
Through the good counsel of Abigail that godly virtuous woman, David was withdrawn from shedding of Nabals' blood: which if he had done, would greatly have procured gods wrath towards David for the same. 1. Reg. 25.  
Abner gave good counsel to Asael when he followed him, saying: Do not thou follow me, lest I 'cause thee to fall unto the earth. Which thing to hear because Asael contemned, he was therefore slain by him immediately. 2. Reg. 2.  
The elders gave good counsel unto Roboam, but he to his own harm gave ear to the counsel of the younger in authority about him. 3 Reg. 12.  
Read the good counsel of Eliseus unto Naaman, and the good event thereof. 4 Reg. 5. Of joiada unto joas the King, and the event thereof. 4. Reg. 12. 2. Par. 24. of Nehemias in building the Temple. Nehem. z. of Tobias in captivity. Tob. 1. of judith to the people. judith. 8. of jonas to the Ninevites. jonas. 2. 3. of Mattathias to his sons. 1. Machabes. 2. of judas Machabaeus. 1. Macha. 3. 4. and 9 Item 2. Mac. 8. & 15. and of the Apostles. Act. 2. 4. 10. 13. 14. 16. 18. 19 20 & 26.   

The. xxii. Plant. Discipline.  
Definition DIscipline is a necessary and needful virtue, most aptly to be applied of tractability in learning, godliness, goodness or virtue, to bear in mind that we hear, to confirm in manners what we conceive in mind, and to use brotherly correction or admonition with severity, according to the defect therefrom, as Gregorius in his Morals saith, that in this discipline aught to be admixed lenity with severity, and that there should be made a moderation thereof. Furthermore S. Augustine writing de Moribus Ecclesiae, distinguisheth Discipline in two parts. The first love, and the second fear, as who should say, love in teaching, telling and admonishing the learner: and fear in learning, following and practising that which is taught. After this sort (saith he) where Discipline is, there is the Lady of true Religion, and of true godliness, which neither so blameth that she burreth, nor so chastiseth that she woundeth: But finally being angry, she correcteth men's manners, and being zealously moved she preserveth them to perfection. Thus as Gregorius Nazianzen saith: The words of the nurses are milk, if they be good, or poison if they be ill. In Regist. cap. 7.  
Testimonies. A wise man by hearing becometh wiser, and he that hath understanding, shall possess the seat of authority. etc. Prou. 5.  
Hast thou children? bring them up in nurture, and from their childhood make them to stand in awe: Hast thou daughters? keep their bodies in awe, and show not a pleasant countenance towards them. Ecclesiasticus. 7.  
My son despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, neither forsake him when thou art reprehended. For whomsoever the Lord loveth, him doth he chasten, as the father which taketh pleasure in his child. Pro. 3.  
Who so rejecteth discipline, despiseth his own soul: but he that hearkeneth to good admonishment, enjoyeth his own hearts case. Prou. 15.  
For whoso despiseth wisdom and discipline is unhappy: and vain is their hope, yea their labours are without fruit, and their works are unprofitable. Sap. 3.  
A man that is wise and well nurtured, will not murmur when he is admonished to amend his fault etc. Eccle. 10. cap.  
I beseech thee my good brother, that unto all those under thy jurisdiction, from the greatest to the lest, thou wouldst declare both the sweet comfort of the heavenly kingdom, and the bitter pains of hell. And that thou being careful for their welfare, wouldst be as a watchman over them. Because for every one which are under thy authority thou shalt tender accounts unto God. Admonish them therefore, and persuade them too beware of pride, slander, drunkenness, fornication, wrath, perjury, and covetousness. Augustinus ad comitem.  
Examples. Our heavenly schoolmaster Christ jesus. even as yet a child, sitting amongst the doctors in the Temple disputed with them, profited in wisdom discretion and grace, before God and men. Luc. 2. Being also the light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of his people Israel, taught first his Disciples the true doctrine of salvation unto all men, which whoso believed should inherit everlasting life. Mat. 10.  
This discipline was taught by the said Apostles by preaching of the Gospel, as namely S. Thomas at Parthia, S. Matthew in Aethiopia, S. Bartholomew in India, S. Andrew in Scythia, S. john Baptist in Asia, S. Peter in Galatia, S. Philip in Scythia, S. james the brother of Christ at jerusalem, Saint john the divine in Pathmos, S. james the elder brother of john at jerusalem, S. Simeon the son of Cleopha, there also, and S. Paul at Rome, Corinth, Ephesus, Galatia, and Thessalonia, with Barnabas at Antioch, teaching and instructing the faithful, as also reproving the seduced and erroneous Disciples, inducing them by all tractability and good order of discipline to be reconciled and established unto the perfect path of righteousness. Act. 15.  
This discipline (as the holy Prophet Moses in Israel, jonas in Ninivee, Elias and Elizeus in Israel, Daniel at Babylon, Nathan at jerusalem, and diverse other by the operation of the holy Ghost, taught and persuaded the kings and nations of the earth, every one in their degree to learn their duties: So likewise have the ancient fathers of the Church, as joseph of Aramathia in England, S. Ignatius at Antioch. Policarpus at Rome, Irenaeus at Lions, Origen at Alexandria, Tertullian in Africa, Cyprian at Carthage, S. Hierom in Bethleem, S. Augustine at Hipponesa, S. Ambrose at Milan, S. Basil at Caesarea in Cappadocia, S. Gregory Nazianzen, & S. Epiphan. at Cypress. and others by their divine gifts in preaching, teaching, detecting, disputing, correcting and confuting have wonderfully profited the Church of God unto all posterity, confirming this discipline of the Gospel, albeit some of them more purer than other some expressing the same.   

The. xxiii. Plant. Virginity.  
Definition Virginity is that virtue which the ancient called pure and undefiled continency of body and mind, which is a continual meditation of the mind, and a continual exercitation of the body in the uncorruptible, chaste estate of life, refraining carnal desire, & carnal dealing of the feminine sex with the masculine, even from the first infancy unto the last continued state of continency, as God shall give the gift thereof above worldly consideration. Thus saith Augustine, writing de bono virginali. It is more blessed in the flesh to imitate the life of Angels, than by the flesh to increase the number of mortal men. And S. Hierom in his sermon de Assump. saith: Of good right was the Angel sent unto the virgin: because unto Angels, virginity is evermore known. And truly (saith he) to live in the flesh as beside the flesh, is not an earthly life, but a heavenly life. For to be an Angel is a state of felicity, but to be a virgin is the state of surpassing virtue. But S. Ambrose more highly advancing virginity, saith, that virginity far surmounteth the state of human nature, whereby men are likened unto Angels. Yet greater is the victory of virgins than of Angels, because Angels live out of the flesh, but virgins do triumph in the flesh.  
Testimonies. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Mat. 5.  
For Virginity is the treasure whose precious price is inexpressible. Gen. 24.  
Touching virgins I have no commandment of the Lord, but yet I do admonish them. etc. 1. Cor. 7.  
Let the unmarried woman and the virgin study for those things which pertain unto the Lord, that she may be holy in body and soul. eodem.  
No man could say the song, but those same xliiii which were redeemed from the earth These are they which were not defiled in the flesh. Apoc. 14. For they are virgins and follow the lamb wheresoever he goeth. cap. eodem.  
These are redeemed from amongst men as the first fruits unto God and the lamb, & there is no deceit found in their mouth. For they are without spot before the throne of God. eodem.  
Whoso having power of his own will, hath determined in his heart to keep his virgin pure, doth well: also he which joineth his virgin in matrimony doth well, but he that marrieth not his virgin doth better. 1. Cor. 7.  
Remember therefore in this life to prepare thee thy lamp of true godliness, and the oil of sincere vetrue fervently luminating thy body and soul, that with the five wise virgins thou mayest enter with the bridegroom Christ jesus, into the celestial joys of life everlasting. Mat. 25.  
Marry the blessed virgin and mother of jesus Christ, 
Examples. Maria interet. Stella Maris.  by the power of the holy Ghost, though she conceived and brought forth the saviour of the world in the flesh, yet seemed she to be still a virgin undefiled. When she saying, How may this be, for I know no man? her sister Elizabeth being full of the holy Ghost especially commended the holy virgin, saying: Blessed art thou amongst women, etc. Luke. 1.  
The same Elizabeth by the divine providence one of the daughters of Aaron, 
Elizabeth interpret. Plenitudo dei  a long time lived undefiled in the flesh, walking in all the precepts & testimonies of the Lord unreprovable, to the great admiration of Zacharias her husband, who was ●●●de by the Angel, that his wife Elizabeth should even in her aged years miraculously also bear a child, which should be great in the lords sight. Luk. 1.  
The virgins and women children, which had not known carnal copulation amongst the Medianites, were spared by the captains of Israel, and by the commandment of Moses had their lives saved, when all the malekinde were slain with the sword. Num. 31.  
The daughter of the woman of Canaan being sore vexed with an evil spirit, was at the instant prayer of her mother helped by Christ. Math. 15.  
Philip the Evangelist had four daughters virgins which prophesied. Acts. 21. Euphemia, Dorothea, Tecla, and Erasma, virgins of sincere, godly, and virtuous conversation, for the testimony of Christ, had rather suffer martyrdom, then forsaking him to live in blindness under Seruastus the tyrant. Pet. de natal. lib. 3. cap. 29. Anno dom. 65.  
Ursula of England, with the 11000. virgins passing towards Rome by Basilea, with Pantaleon the Bishop of Basilea, (homewards by the way returning from the people called the Huns) suffered martyrdom for the testimony of Christ at Colen in Belgia. Pol. Virg. in Ang. 3. Anno. 460.   

The xxiii. Plant. Sobrieetie.  
Definition SObritie, as Augustine saith (writing unto the holy virgins) is the armour or shield of the mind and senses, of all the members, & of the whole body itself, the fortress of Chastity and shamefastness, the neighbour of Modesty, handmaid of amity & peace, the near allied unto honesty, & the very true shunner of all vice & sin. Yea he addeth yet further and sayeth, This virtue Sobriety, is the observer of true judgement, the wisdom of inseparable memory and remembrance, the Closet of secrets, the covering of privities, the prompt atchiever of learning and doctrine, the discipline of good arts and sciences, together reputed as Lady and mistress over humane wits, and the handmaid of enterprises, which is ever desirous of good name, ordaining things wholesome and profitable, and a singular help to virtue, disposing all things with reason and always coveting to keep company with honest persons. Thus much out of S. Augustine, touching the definition of this excellent virtue Sobriety.  
Testimonies. Being prepared with the loins of your mind girded, see that you hope soberly, and perfectly for that grace which is brought unto us, and frame not yourselves to live after your former inordinate lusts. 1. Pet. 2.  
The grace of God hath appeared unto us, that we denying and forsaking all ungodliness and worldly concupiscences, should live soberly, justly, and godly in this present world. 2. Tit.  
Beware that your hearts be not grieved with surfeiting and drunkenness, and with cares of this life, & that the latter day suddenly steal not upon you: for it shall come unlooked for, as a snare unto all the world. Luke. 21.  
Sobriety, especially in women, carrieth always a lowly countenance toward the earth, remembering that she came from the earth: But drunkenness having lost all modesty, lifteth up her lofty looks on high. August. ad sacr. virgins.  
Sobriety with great trembling and silence uttereth that word which cannot be reprehended: But drunkenness both showeth unshamefast speech & countenance▪ ibidem.  
Sobriety is the mother of all virtues: But drunkenness is the fountain of all vices. Origen. home 57  
Examples. Our Lord and saviour Christ jesus as a singular example of sobriety whose action is our instruction, gave commandment unto his Apostles into what house soever they enired, that they should eat and drink such as they found, as who say they should be content even with mean fare, and not seek after any curious or dainty fare. Luke. 10.  
Daniel had determined in his mind before, that he would not be defiled with the meat of Pharaos' table, by means whereof God gave him and his sociates knowledge & wisdom. Dan. 3. Eleazarus, although he was stricken in age, had rather die a cruel death than he would eat swine's flesh which was against the law. 2. Mac. 2.  
The seven brethren with their mother also being compelled of the king to eat swine's flesh, contrary to the law, chose rather to suffer most cruel torments. 2. Mac. 7.  
Saint john Baptist was of such sober life, that his usual meat was only locusts and wild honey. Math 3 Math 11.  
The Lord commended the sobriety of those Rachabites, because they would drink no wine, as their father commanded them. jer. 35.   

The xxv. Plant, Chastity.  
Definition Chastity is a special virtue which aught to pertain unto every degree of human kind, retaining the purity as well of the mind being called the inward man, void of wicked or ungodly cogitations, consent, motion, or any manner of purpose against the will of God, as also retaining cleanness of bodily gesture, in the outward man, void of wicked and ungodly speech, word & deed in all things contrary to God's holy wil And although god commandeth that this virtue should be had in due honour, & observed in all ages & degrees of men and women, yet it aught with special care to be regarded in the state of wedlock, because when God hath linked in mutual bonds of love, & placed in two bodies one soul, there aught to be no violation of this virtue, nor no breach of this knot. For in this chastity & mutual love consisteth wondered felicity and manifold comfort each of other. Contrariwise, if either chastity be without love, or love without chastity, every felicity turneth into infelicity, & every comfort into a corsie. For Chastity (as S. Bernard saith without love, is a lamp without oil. Take away the oil & the lamp cannot burn: so take away love, & chastity pleaseth not. Ber. in epist. ad Senon.  
Testimonies. O how fair is a chaste generation with virtue: for the memory thereof is everlasting, because it is known before God, and also before men. When she is present they follow her steps, and when she withdraweth herself, they desire her, & for ever crowned doth she triumph, with conquest of reward over the multitude of those defiled. Sap. 4.  
Blessed are the clean and pure of heart, for they shall see God. Mat. 5.  
The light of the body is the eye, if therefore thy eye be simple, all thy whole body shall be light. Mat. 6.  
For he that is steadfast of mind, maketh none necessity, but hath power of his own will, and hath decreed this in his heart, namely to keep his virginity. 1. Cor. 7.  
Know you not that your bodies are the members of Christ. Shall you then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbidden. Know you not that your body is the temple of the holy ghost dwelling in you. 1. Cor. 6.  
Separate not yourselves one from another, except it be through both your consents for a time, continuing in fasting & prayer, lest Satan tempt you for your incontinency. 1. Cor. 7. Let the unmarried man care for those things, which pertain to the pleasing of God. ibid.  
Let the unmarried woman seek that which pertains unto the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and soul. Ibid.  
Examples. Our Saviour jesus Christ the most precious, pure, and undefiled pattern of Chastity, as he lived here on earth most chastely, so hath he left us this lesson as example worthy of imitation, namely that there is no treasure comparable to the gift of chastity. Ecclesiasticus 26.  
So long as our parents Adam and Eve were in Paradise, they were in state of virginity, but being once cast out by the displeasure of God, it came then to pass, that Adam knew Eve carnally. Gen. 4.  
joseph although he was a bond servant, and a young man of elegant parsonage, without wife, being earnestly provoked thereunto by his mistress, would not give his consent to defile his masters bed, and had rather displease his mistress, and be shut in close prison, than be would loose his chastity. Gen. 39  
Sara had such care and continency of her body touching chaste life before she married Tobia, that in her prayer she confessed, saying, Thou knowest Lord that I never desired company of man, but have kept my soul pure and undefiled from all carnal lusts. Tob. 3.  
judith after she had buried her first husband never knew any man, but kept herself a chaste widow▪ keeping the fasts and feasts of the Sabbath in the house of Israel, with devout fasting and prayer. jud. 8.  
After that Phinees and other captains had subdued the Madianites, Moses commanded that all the wicked women should be slain, and that the virgins only should be saved. Num. 31.  
Marry the blessed virgin and mother of Christ, continued in the estate of chastity by divine providence. Luke 1.  
Susanna a singular example for chaste married women. Dan. 13.   

The xxvi. Plant, Repentance.  
Definition REpentance is a virtue profitable, both to the body and the soul, & highly pleasing God. But it is understood to be a certain remorse of conscience inwardly, and earnestly sorrowing for any thing, spoken, done, or thought beyond the bounds of God's laws, and man's, either privately or publicly, wherein detesting and hating such kind of dealing, we protest with mind and mouth, to forsake from henceforth all former folly, looseness of life, and licentious lusts, & in taking a revenge by hearty repentance, we profess and practise better ways and dealings towards God and man, in punishing the appetites of the flesh with the abstinence of the spirit, and sacrifice of sorrows unto amendment and newness of life. Thus as S. Augustine saith, who so shall truly repent, and be loosed of the bands of sin, to be united in the body of Christ, and shall live well after their repentance, as he should have done before his repentance, after his reconcilement whensoever he dieth, he goeth unto God, he goeth to the good rest, he shall not be frustrate of the inheritance promised in the kingdom of God, nor separated from the society of God's people. Aug. de poeneten. cap. 5.  
Testimonies. Thus sayeth the Lord, if I shall shut up the heavens, so that there fall no rain, and should command the Locusts to devour the earth, & should sand a pestilence unto my people in my wrath: yet if my people which call upon my name, do make their prayers unto me, do seek my face, & repent them of their sins, I will hear them from out of the heavens. Parali. 7.  
Be not slow to turn unto the Lord, and defer not of from day to day, for suddenly shall his wrath come, and in time of his vengeance shall he destroy thee. Eccle. 5.  
Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Mat. 3. and 4.  
Lay away from you according to your old conversation, the old man which is corrupted, by reason of the desire of sin, and be renned in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new man which is created like unto god, in righteousness and holiness of truth. Ephe. 4.  
Turn unto the Lord, and forsake the sins, pray before the face of the Lord, and leave of to offend. Turn again unto the Lord, and turn away from thy unrighteousness, and more and more hate thy wickedness, and knowledge the righteousness and judgement of God, etc. Eccle. 17.  
There shall be more joy in heaven over one sinner that truly repenteth, than over 99 just which need no repentance. Luk. 15.  
Examples. Christ jesus the righteous saviour of all man kind, hath promised us that he came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. Luk. 5. affirming that at what time soever a sinner repenteth him of his sins, from the bottom of his heart, that he would put away all his sins. etc. Ezec. 1  
When the people of Israel heard, that the Lord was grieved at the murmurings in the desert, they mourned therefore, and would have done more in the morning than the Lord commanded them. Num. 14.  
They at another time said unto the Lord, we have sinned, tender thou unto us whatsoever thou wilt, and they cast away their Idols from them, so that, He sorrowed upon their miseries. jud. 10.  
David quickly repented him, when Nathan reprehended him of his fault. 2. Reg. 12.  
Achab the most wicked king of Israel, covered his flesh with haircloth, and slept in sackcloth, and walked bareheaded before the Lord, and his punishment for the faults was dispensed with and forgiven. 3. Reng 21.  
Manasses being bound in chains, and carried into Babylon, very much repented him before the Lord, and the Lord restored him again unto his kingdom of jerusalem. 2. Par. 33.  
Esdras the prophet weeping for the sins of Israel, and making intercession for them unto the Lord, it was answered him, thus. If there be repentance in Israel, I will then enter a league with the Lord, etc. 1. Esdr. 10.  
job although he was a man simple and right, fearing God, yet I will do (saith he) repentance in sackcloth and ashes. job. 42.  
The Ninevites believed the Lord at the preaching of jonas, and they preached fasting, clothing themselves with sackcloth and ashes, from the lest to the most, and they were delivered. jonas. 2.   

The xxvii. Plant, Simplicity.  
Definition Simplicity is a singular virtue, which properly and plainly speaketh and doth those things which are unfeigned, uncorrupt, without simulation, adulation, collusion, hypocrisy, doubleness of hear, or sinister external dealing in doctrine and doings of life & manners. Although this virtue hath sometimes her imperfection, when in the simple mind, without wisdom & knowledge, she (as ignorant) doth, speaketh, & thinketh not always those things that are profitable for her, neither for others. As the other simplicity joined with wisdom & true knowledge, worketh evermore that which neither can nor may redound to the injury or deceit of herself, neither to the injury or dececeyt of any others, so as she neither will deteive others, nor be deceived herself in any thing, but keeping the race of integrity, and method of perfection. It is taken in most places of the Scripture for the true and perfect affection of the mind, and in nature for the true and unfeigned godliness, which is both pleasing unto God, and profitable unto man. Thus, as S. Hierom saith, super Osean Prudence without simplicity, is but mere malice, and simplicity without reason or wisdom is but mere foolishness.  
Testimonies. Let not your understanding be corrupted from simplicity in Christ, that is, from the true knowledgement and faith in Christ, or from true godliness. 2. Cor. 11.  
Be you wise as serpents, and innocent as doves. Mat 10.  
Be as the simple children of God, and unreproovable amongst the evil and wicked generation. Phil. 2.  
The simple shall possess and devil in the land. Prou. 2.  
He that walketh simply walketh surely. cap. 10.  
The just which walketh in his simplicity, shall leave a blessed posterity of children after him. eodem.  
Thou shalt be simple if thou entangle not thyself unto the world, but wring thyself out of the wretched familiarity thereof. For in wring thyself from the world art thou simple, but in entangling thyself to the world, thou art double. Aug. super john. ho. 2.  
The simplicity of the just shall direct them in the right way. Pro. 11.  
He that giveth, let him give in simplicity, that is to say, in true and simple zeal to do well towards all men, not seeking any curiosity, or using captiousness, Rom. 12.  
Examples. Our Lord & saviour jesus Christ, the sole & singular pattern of godly simplicity, came simply into this world, borne in a simple barn or stable, simply in nature was obedient to his parents, simply taught, and simply lived according to his teaching, in whose mouth there was no guide, in whose heart no deceit, neither in any external doings, any harm. Mat. Mar. Luke. john.  
His beloved Apostles, Peter, Andrew, and others, of simple fishermen, poor, unlearned, base and abject in worldly wisdom, did he train, teach and instruct with the fullness of the holy Ghost, as well by his life and doctrine, making them perfect followers of him, as also worthy examples for his chosen servants in this world: whose testimonies are left us for our worthy examples of imitation. Mat. Mar. Luke. john.  
job is commended unto us to have lived always just and simple in the sight of the Lord, just by wariness of wisdom, and simple by innocency of meekness: simple, because he never desired to hurt any, but rather to profit all men: just, because he would not suffer himself to be deceived by any. job. 1. Beda de templo Solemonis. lib. 1.  
All the patriarchs and Prophets, were men of simple life and conversation in the sight of God.  
S. Hierome writing de Sapientia Serpentina & simplicitate Columbina, hath these words. Use simplicity of a Dove, that thou do not deceive or injury any man: and have wisdom of a serpent, that thou be not supplanted in other men's snares, for otherwise in respect of offence, it differeth smally, but thou shalt either deceive, or be deceived. Hier. ad. Rust. Mona.   

The xxviii Plant, Sincerity.  
Definition Sincerity is to be understood, for truth, the very bright beams of that shining Sun, which revealeth the purity of God, and his word, and discovereth the falsehood of the Devil and his works. By which touchstone gold is tried from dross: By which fan wheat is sifted from the chaff, and by which searce of sincerity, the sweet savoury Cinnamon of salvation is separate from the bruised bark of bitter bale, by the operation of the holy Ghost, which is therefore called the spirit of truth and sincerity, because he is true and sincere, that is, agreeable unto the will of God, and the author which first expressed the true doctrine of God, inclining the hearts of men to assent and consent unto the same true doctrine, to worship the true god thereby, to honour and obey the superior powers thereby, to profess with the heart, and confess with the tongue all one, in all worldly dealings towards all men. That the name of the true and everliving God may in truth be glorified: That the true and sincere Church in truth may be amplified, and increased: That the true consolations of Christ may in our consciences truly be multiplied, eternally to our salvation, triumphing with Christ over Satan, sin and hell, to rest with him in the sincere seat of celestial glory.  
Testimonies. In spirit and truth do the true worshippers worship the father. john. 4.  
Thy word is the truth, sanctify them in the truth. john. 17.  
God will that all men should be saved, and come to the knowledge of the truth, that is, of the true doctrine of the true God, and of the mediator his son jesus Christ. 1. Tim. 2.  
The spirit of truth shall bring you into all truth. john. 16.  
The truth is great and stronger than all things. 1. Esd. 4  
We can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth. 2. Cor. 13.  
If you remain in the truth of my word, you are my disciples rightly, and my truth shall deliver you. john. 8.  
Laying aside all leasings, let every one of you speak the truth unto his neighbour. Ephe. 4.  
The Lord abhorreth lying lips, but who so speaketh truth shall be safe for ever. Pro. 10.  
Lord who shall ascend into thy hill, or who shall rest in thy holy place, even he whose hands are innocent from harm, whose heart is clean, which hath not taken his soul in vain, nor hath not sworn to deceive his neighbour. etc. Psal. 23.  
This is our glory only, and in this we are glad as to witness, we take our conscience that we are exercised in the simplicity and sincerity of God, in this world, and not in carnal wisdom, but in the grace of God etc. 2. Cor. 1.  
Examples. jesus Christ our Saviour, is that shining son of sincerity, which rightly calleth himself the son of righteousness. Sapien. the light of the world. john. 1. the way, the truth, and the life, john. 14. all whose ways, as David saith, are mercy and truth. Psal. 25.  
His Apostles, Prophets, patriarchs, Martyrs and Confessors, have preached this truth, practised the same in life and conversation, & suffered persecution for the testimony thereof.  
jacob had this sincerity with him, when he said, let us make an altar unto the lord, because he hath heard me in the day of my trouble, and hath been a companion of my journey. Gen. 35  
Daniel had this sincerity of truth with him, when all the wise men of Babylon were by Nabuchodonoser commanded to be slain, than he being inspired with the spirit of truth, exhorted his sociates to seek for mercy of the Lord, who revealing a vision unto Daniel in the night, by this advertisement of Daniel, the king spared to execute his determined judgement upon the said wise men. Dan. 2.  
When all the Disciples of Christ were altogether of one mind in praying, the holy Ghost wonderfully descended upon them, taught them, comforted them, & directed them in the truth. Act. 1. 2.  
This spirit of sincerity had the same Daniel in disproving those false Gods Bel and the Dragon, and in worshipping the true and everliving God, maugre the malice of the malignant enemies of the truth. Dan. 14.   

The xxix Plant, justice.  
Definition Justice is one of the sour most excellent virtues called cardinal virtues, whereout flow, as from out of four pure fountains all the other springs of virtues, albeit these four called Cardinal virtues, namely, justice, Prudence, Temperance, and Fortitude, are so termed of the Latin Erymologie Cardo, which is in English the hinge of a door: for as the hinge doth catie the force of the door opening to and fro, and bears the stress of the same against all other strength: so do these four virtues every one in his property, carry, support, and bear certain other virtues, as it were imposed upon them, or rather depending upon their force and effect. As namely, Cicero terming this justice the first Cardinal virtue, saith, lib. 1. Offici. That she is a great brightness and excellency, whereof good men are so called, whose first office is to hurt no man, except he be first provoked by injury. Again, to use things common for common, and thirdly private things as his own. But more truly and amply in his 2. Rhetor. he saith, justice is an excellent quality of the mind, to the profit of all men appliable, rendering every one their due title and right: and her parts are these, Religion, Piety, Gratitude, Challenge of right and Equity, Observation, & Truth in all things before God and man acceptable. Cicero. lib. 2 Rhetoricorum.  
Testimonies. Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Mat. 5.  
The path of the righteous shineth, as the light that is brighter and brighter unto the perfect day. etc. Pro. 4.  
There ariseth light in darkness to those that are just and upright of heart. Be joyful you just in the Lord, and with continual memory acknowledge his holiness. Psa. 96.  
The just man shall flourish as the Palm tree, and as the Cedar of Libanus shall he be multiplied in his seed. Psal. 91.  
For righteousness strive & groan thou even until death, and God shall overcome and vanquish thine enemies for thee. Eccl. 4.  
justice is that virtue which claimeth not any thing properly pertaining unto others, which giveth unto every one that which is his, which neglecteth her own commodity, equally to profit others, and according to his will the first point of justice pertaineth unto God, the second to our Prince and country, the third to our parent. & the iiii. towards all men. Ambr. in Officiis.  
The justice of the king is the peace of his people, the defence of his Country, the easy yoke of the people, the fortress of the nation, the salve of sorrows, the joy of men, the bright clearness of the air, the calmness of the sea, the plentifulness of the land, the solace of the poor, the patrimony of children: and unto the king himself this justice is the very hope of blessedness to come. Cypr. de 12. Abusionibus.  
Examples. Almighty God the justest judge over heaven and earth, which in his justice created all things to his glory, & unto whose judgement all things are subject, both in heaven above, & earth bylow, hath left us a notable testimony of his justice mentioned in the story of the naughty servant which would not forgive the HUNDRED pennies. Mat. 8  
Abraham desiring to separate himself from Lot his nephew, gave him choice to take which part he would, and so might the distribution be well dealt, that the elder might divide, and the younger choose. Gen. 13.  
Assuerus executed justice duly upon wicked Aman, when he caused him to be hanged upon the same gallows that he caused to be set up for that good Mardocheus, most innocent. Ester. 7. 8.  
The men that accused Daniel for an offender, were justly put into the den of the Lions, at the king Darius his commandment, and they were scarce come down to the bottom of the den, but the Lions took the men, and altogether devoured them even to the very bones. Dan. 6. & 14.  
Much like true justice was showed upon the two false judges, for accusing that godly and chaste Susanna. Dan. 13.  
Antiochus also died an horrible death, being for his cruelty justly rewarded therewith of the Lord. 2. Mac. 9  
David would not receive the altar of Arenna, the jebusite, unless he had first rendered unto him a just reward therefore. 2. Reg. 14.  
When Tobias heard the Kid bleat, which was brought him, he willed them to look that it was not stolen, because he said they aught not to eat of any stolen thing, or of any stray. Tob. 2.   

The thirty. Plant, Prudence.  
Definition PRudence or wisdom, is the knowledge directive, both how to choose & achieve those things that are good, and how to eschew those things that are evil, saith S. Aug. li. 1. de lib arbit. This virtue Wisdom (as Aristotle lib. 1. Rhetor. defineth) is that virtue of the mind, whereby we may provide for those good graces, tending to felicity in this life, and for ever: and also whereby we may prevent those evils tending to destruction in this life and for ever. And Macrobius, he saith, wisdom is a virtue directing all things devised in our mind, and externally enterprised, according to the rule of reason, neither doth she any thing but that which is right, and worthy of praise: and unto her do these other virtues also properly appertain: viz. Understanding, Circumspection, providence, docility, and wariness. But Tho. Aquinas concludeth, that she is the true and perfect means whereby we are reconciled to God, whereby we judge and prescribe all things tending to good use and end in man's life, only agreeable to God & good men. Ex be. Th.  
Testimonies. All wisdom cometh from the Lord God, and with him hath it been always, & is with him from all worlds. Eccle. 1.  
The root of wisdom is to fear the Lord, and her branches are long life. eod.  
The children of wisdom are the congregation of the just, and their generation is delighted in obedience and love. Eccle. 3  
Wisdom is better than strength, and a wise man excelleth him that is strong. God loveth no man but him which hath his dwelling with wisdom, for this is more beautiful than the Sun, and being compared above all the course of the stars, is found more ancient than them all, for unto the light of the day approacheth the darksome night: but malice shall not overcome wisdom. Sap. 7.  
A wise heart, and one that hath understanding, will abstain from sins: and in the works of righteousness shall he have prosperous success. Eccle. 6.  
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask it of God, which giveth to all men plentifully, and casteth no man in the teeth. But let him ask in faith, nothing doubting, james. 1.  
Possess wisdom, because she is better than gold, and embrace understanding, because she is more precious than silver. Pro. 16.  
Examples. Christ jesus, the lively fountain of pure and perfect wisdom, even in his childhood, hearing and questioning with those Doctors in the Temple, was for his singular wisdom and wise answers, greatly marveled at of those doctors. Luke. 2.  
Paul the Apostle of Christ, was wonderfully illuminated with the spirit of wisdom and heavenly understanding, as appeareth. Acts. 16. 19 20. 22. 23. 25.  
Abraham wisely separated himself from Loath, lest the shepherds should be at discord amongst themselves. Gen. 13.  
He distributed wisely unto his children their portions in his life time, lest after his death they should be at variance amongst themselves. Gen. 25.  
joseph wisely admonished Pharaoh of his dream, and gave him good counsel in many things, Gen. 41. He wisely counseled his brethren. Gen. 44.  
For other notable examples of the wisdom of God, wonderfully appearing in his elect. Look and read. jethro. Exod. 18. Moses. Num. 13. josua. 21. & 8. Phinees and others. joshua. 22. David. 1. Reg. 17. 18. 21. 25. Solomon. 1. Reg, 3. Ezechias 4. Reg. 18. and. 2. Paral. 32. Zorobabel. 1. Esd. 3. Tob. 4. judit. 8. & 11. Ester. 4. and Daniel. 1.   

The xxxi Plant, Temperance.  
Definition. TEmperance, the third virtue cardinal, is the chief moderator and governor of the motions of the inward man, and also of the external members of the outward man, to refrain not only from wicked and perverse desires, but also from the concupiscence of the eyes, immoderate use of the tongue, vicious enormities of the body, and every other the members thereof, keeping the happy and golden mean in all things, abhorring excess, riot and intemperance of meat, drink, cloth, and such like: whose parts are bashfulness, Honesty, Chastity, Shamefastness, Continency, Humility, Courtesy or Clemency, Modesty, good order, Frugality, and moderation: As Thomas of Aquina that excellent learned doctor doth define them, properly appertaining unto temperance: whose properties at large I have placed in the next page in stead of testimonies, because the knowledge of them is singular, and the effect of them no less worthy to be imitated, as well of high as low estate, rich as poor, and of the meanest person, as of the better parsonage.  
The testimomies of the parts of Temperance.  
Testimonies. Bashfulness is that part of Temperance which blushing at the indecent speech of the tongue, or fearing that which is indecent, refraineth her affections therefrom.  
Honesty is that part, whereby any person embracing moderation, and discipline, doth exercise the same in observing person, place, and time.  
Chastity delighteth herself in that integrity and unspotted part of Temperance, that as she herself keepeth her bounds, so will she by her examples move others to observe the law of God and of nature.  
Continency refraineth the motion of the will stirred up by the assault of the passion, that although a man suffer immoderate lusts, yet his will is not subdued or vanquished by evil.  
Humility refraineth the motion of vain hope, and wilful boldness.  
Courtesy or Clemency, refraineth desire of revenge in anger or injury offered or done.  
Modesty bridleth the motions of the mind within, and also the deeds of the outward man.  
Good order consisteth in knowing what to do, and what not to do, and herein to continued firmly.  
Frugality, in keeping a mean touching expenses, gifts or beneficency, that she may do that which sufficeth, and not to overdo beyond measure.  
Moderation in so using the same benefits, which God and nature hath given us, that they may profit us in use of them, and others in bestowing them.  
Examples. Our saviour Christ jesus so tempered affections of the body in himself, that he refrained from food in the desert of judaea. 40. days and forty nights, as a meet example of temperance, for those which either fast with a defiled mind, or altogether despise temperance in diet. Mat. 4. Luke. 4.  
S. john Baptist refrained from delicate fare, and only contented himself with locusts and wild home in the desert. Math. 3.  
Our Saviour Christ bearing furthermore witness of himself, said: john Baptist came neither eating bread, nor drinking wine and you say he hath a devil. Luke. 7.  
Helias being by the Angel refreshed with barley bread & water, walked with the strength of that bread and water, forty days, and forty nights, unto the mount Oreb. 3. Reg. 19 etc.  
The beginning of man's life was only contented with bread, water, and apparel, and a convenient shade to cover his nakedness. Eccle. 29.  
When David had desired water out of the well of Bethleem, to be brought him (tempering his affections with rare moderation) he would not drink, thereof afterwards, because he had before too much greedily desired the same. 2. Reg. 23.  
Read of the temperance and moderation of punishment which GOD had towards the wicked King Achab, because he repented in sackcloth, tempering his ire (for kill of Naboth) afterwards sorrowing for the same. 3. Reg. 21.   

The xxxii Plant, Fortitude  
Definition FOrtitude the fourth and last cardinal virtue (as it were quadrangle wise, planted every one in his several place environing this vinyeard) hath his definition as derived of the Latin word Fortis, which is, strong, and the proper Etymology of this word Fortitude, is as much to say, as strength, force and mighty courage of the mind, in withstanding evil, in defending good, and in valiantly adventuring against the troublesome threatenings of adverse fortune, with firm trust and confidence in God, which in respect of godly life and true virtue in this life, utterly abhorreth and striveth to vanquish all wicked pleasures, vice, honours, riches, envy and ignominy, death and destruction, to safeguard and fortify herself with such heavenly virtues, that she may live for ever. And unto this fortitude doth Cicero ascribe these virtues properly appertaining, namely faith or Confidence, Patience, mighty Courage, magnificency, Constancy, & perseverance. But this is only allowable with God and man, especially in cryall of a right and just cause, in defending the truth, and depelling or depressing the unrighteous, unjust, and untrue quarrels of the wicked, perverse, and malignant members of Satan.  
Testimonies. My son when thou comest unto the service of God, stand fast in righteousness and fear, & prepare thy soul unto temptations. Ecclesiasticus. 2.  
The name of the Lord is a strong defence, unto this fleeth the righteous, and shall be saved. Prou. 18.  
Because thou, o Lord, art become strength unto the poor, a defence for the needy in tribulation, a hope in their misery, and a shade from the heat. Esay. 25.  
The Lord is my fortitude, and my hope. Exod. 15.  
The eyes of the Lord do behold all the whole earth, and do give strength and courage unto those which believe in him with a perfect heart. Paral. 16.  
In the fear of the Lord is confidence of Fortitude. Prou. 14.  
The way of the Lord is the fortitude of the simple. Prou. 10.  
The fortitude of young men is their rejoicing in the Lord. Prou. 20.  
The ungodly fleeth when no man pursueth him: but the just person as a Lion trusting in the Lord, shall be safe from fear. Prou. 28.  
Be not afraid (saith the Lord) because I have redeemed thee, and called thee after my name, thou art mine. When thou shalt pass by the waters, I will be with thee, when thou walkest in the fire, thou shalt not burn, and the flame shall not be seen in thee, because I am thy Lord God, thy holy one of Israel, thy Saviour, etc. Esay. 43.  
If God be with us, who shall be against us. Rom. 8.  
Examples. Our Saviour Christ jesus, that fort invincible of perfect fortitude, both withstood the conflicts of Satan against him. Matth. and of the jews, Scribes and Pharisees, which by all means came to ensnare him. Mat. 16. 19 21. Mar. 12. Luke. 20. and also with heavenly courage of the spirit of truth in him, utterly vanquished and overcame them for our worthy example.  
Saint Stephen the protomartyr, otherwise called the first witness, constantly dying in confession of Christ and the truth, by grace and fortitude in him, wrought many marvels, resisting the jews in their wicked doctrine, suffered grievous death of being stoned for the truth. Acts 6.  
Moses' boldly and constantly stood before Pharaoh, rebuking him, because he would not let go the people of Israel. Exod. 4.  
He also said to joshua which should succeed him: Be of good comfort, and take good courage unto thee, for thou shalt bring in this people under thy correction. Deut. 31.  
josua himself with valiant courage (in the service of God enjoined him) so constantly behaved himself, that he said unto those princes about him, go your ways, and set your feet upon the necks of those five kings that withstand the will of the most highest. josua. 10.  
For other notable examples of fortitude in defence of the righteous and just quarrel of God and his truth, look and read of Phinees. Numb. 31. Caleb. josua. 14. Ahud judge of Israel. judicum. 3. Gedeon. judicum. 6. Samson. judicum. 14. David. 1. Regum. 17. Eleazarus. 2. Machab. 6. The seven brethren. 2. Macha. 7. Saint Paul. Acts 11. and others.   

The four Arbours of amiable amenity within this vinyeard.  

The first Arbour, Zeal to Godliness.  
WHo so being desirous to view & survey this Vineyard of Virtue, hath satisfied his bodily eyes with the beautiful ●ranches of every Plant, hath satisfied his longing mind with the taste of the heavenly fruit ●ereof, and delighteth in the sweet digestion ●ereof, unto eternal salvation: Let him here ●●uch safe to sit down under my beams, and ●rowd him under the boughs of my beatitude, who being termed Zeal to godliness, do promise's such happy entertainment, & perform ●●th blessedness, that they shall not repent than which ●●me to me: nay the longer they tarry with me, the more shall they labour in love with me 〈◊〉 and never be weary of their well doing, 〈◊〉 when they think they have done, they sha● new begin again: So that the more ofte● they see, the more often they desire, the oftener they desire, the oftener they shall be an hungered, the more they hunger, the more the● shall seek to satisfy, and the more that the● satisfy them, the more they will come to 〈◊〉 For the more they come to me, the better th● fare. Wherefore whatsoever thou art, whi●● after long looking, hast liked, and in liking haste longed for the effectual digestion of 〈◊〉 fruit of this vinyeard. Disdain not he● in this place to rest after repast, and perswage thyself to be with Abraham, in the valley 〈◊〉 Mambrey, 
That is in the light of the Gospel.  sitting in the door of the tent 〈◊〉 the very heat of the day: and that by reposing thy delectation in this virtuous life, 〈◊〉 by his grace will appear unto thee, as 〈◊〉 than appeared unto Abraham. Gen. 18. 〈◊〉 persuade thyself, whiles thus thou re●● thyself with me, (that as jacob rested hi● self in Aram after the Sun was set) so sh●● thou not gather stones, but feathers of dow●● to lay under thy head, if thou sleepest in 〈◊〉 place: and as he saw in his dream a ladd●● reaching to the heavens, so shalt thou 〈◊〉 thyself to be in heaven, even whilst thou yet dwellest upon earth. Gen. 28. Be also surely persuaded in thyself, that resting with this Seal to godliness, thou art not sleeping with Samuel in the temple of the Lord, but waking ●nd the readier for the Lord, when he shall ●all thee to what end and purpose he william. ●. Reg. 3. To be short, thou shalt not seem to 〈◊〉 exercised in a vinyeard of vanity, but of such virtue, that David's house of Cedar trees was not comparable to it. Solomon's gorgeous dwelling places of pleasure, nor yet the 〈◊〉 winged Chariot of Elias were more de●ectable for thy soul's health in his life, and 〈◊〉 the life to come eternal.   

The second Arbour, Society of good men.  
Whilst thou art yet plucking a cluster of grapes from this plant, here there taking thy pleasure in another place, 〈◊〉 replenish thy longing mind with delightsome and pleasant fruit, digesting the same 〈◊〉 full: Come hither yet one step further vn●● me, which am called the second Arbour, and ●est thee now in the Society of good men, For be sure, thou hast neither ploughed in stony ground, walked amongst weeds, beaten the busy waves, gathered Caterpillars for good fruit, eaten sour grapes, nor tasted dregs & wine lees, in stead of comfortable Muscadel: But thou hast bestowed thy labour in the land which bringeth forth good fruit, thou hast with the Bee borhe away honey out of sweet and fragrant flowers: thou hast sailed in the ports of safety, brought home sound fruit, tasted of the wine of gladness, and satisfied thy mind with cordial comfort in the company of men, not of bruit beasts, and not of men, but of good men, not only of good men, but of Angels, and not only of Angels, but of the Almighty, whose ministers they are for thy welfare & salvation, to accompany thee unto the resting place of eternal joy & blessedness. And as Laban had verte small store of worldly substance before jacob came unto him, and by his companying with him was made rich, Gen. 30. So thou which shalt imitate the virtuous examples of these good and godly men, daily accompanying, that is to say, meditating and practising their virtues in life & conversation, thou shalt be rich in the grace & favour of God for ever. Yea in often using the counsels of these, thou shalt with Tobias he sure to have always as guests with thee such men as fear God. Tob. 24. Thou shalt thus conversant, as David sayeth, be holy with those that are holy, and innocent with those that are innocent, Psal. 17. Yea thou shalt by company and conference with these good neighbours dwelling in the midst of the ungodly, as S. Isydore saith, lib. 2. soliloq. glorify God, edify thy neighbour, & damnify thine enemy. To conclude, whilst thou as Peter did, remainest. Mat. 26 firm in conformity of mind and manners with these Apostles, thou art in the right way, and art established in safety, but beware thou hast no society with the chief priests, as Pope, tyrant, hypocrite, infidel, nor irreligious persons which deny the Lord of hosts the giver of salvation only. Thus with Paul shalt thou pass the stormy rage of this world, and all those under thy charge safely unto the port of joys and blessedness perpetual. Acts. 27.   

The third Arbour, Observation of the Sabaoth.  
AFter thou hast laboured thus in the lords vinyeard with continual company, counsel, and comfort of the elect: it shall behove thee to call to mind, what our Saviour by the mouth of his servant Moses commanded should be establised for a peculiar law amongst the children of God, namely, That thou shalt keep holy the Sabbath day. Which keeping holy of the Sabaoth, for as much as he himself first observed for our example, when after his six days works he rested the seventh day and hallowed it, we must therefore so construe this rest, and so accomplish the same in our life & conversation, that in resting from labour, we give no liberty to idleness, vain cogitations, vain speech, nor vain deeds, so resting as though we never ceased to turmoil, both body in unquietness, and soul in desolation. For what profiteth this Sabothes rest unto the body, with pampering herself in carnal pleasures putting on gorgeous apparel, wallowing in all kind of wicked sensuality, caring not for the affliction of the poor conscience, which starveth for the food of salvation, dieth naked in her sins, and sinneth in her nakedness of all virtue, goodness, grace and godliness? For as the divine providence of the creator of all creatures, ordained them a time of being: So hath he determined an end for the same: and as the Sabbath is the resting day after working days: so is it a figure of the eternal rest, either in joys perpetual for those that live well here, or in pains perpetual for those that live wickedly here. Wherefore who so will rightly provide for the rest of joys eternal, let him with the children of Israel in the vi. days of this life time, gather Manna in the desert of this world. Exod. 16. Let them so fructify in good examples of godly virtue, that they may be readily prepared themselves, and prepare others also to that blessed rest But let us take heed of gathering wood, that is to say, of binding one sin to another in this transitory Sabaoth, for as the man that so did gather wood was stoned to death. Deut. 5. Num. 15. so will God be avenged of those which misspend the Sabaoth day, according as it shall seem good unto him. Wherefore, let us with the Apostles especially bestow the Sabaoth as most fit and convenient in hearing & learning the word, will, and law of God. Act. 13. And while we live in the wilderness of this world, let us so frame our lives thereafter, that we may at all times seek the glory of God, our soul's health, and the common comfort and commodity of our brethren, that we may rest with the Lord of the Sabaoth in his celestial kingdom.   

The fourth and last Arbour, Immortality.  
Now that we have thus laboured in the Lord's Vineyard, and rested in due observation of this appointed Sabaoth: let us lastly contemplate the end of our labour, & reward of our dutiful performed pains in this Vineyard of the Lord. For whether we labour or not, yet we live, as we live we die, as we die we rest till the judgement day, and as we shall then be judged, so shall we receive the just deserved reward, either for painful true travel, the triumphant crown of immortality, either else for slothful & dissembling negligence, the troublesome torments of never dying death. For so hath the Lord of the vinyeard determined with all flesh from the first creation of the world. That we shall (as S. Paul saith, 2. Cor. 5.) be all openly manifested before the tribunal seat of Christ, there to receive every man his own works that he hath done in his body, whether it be good or evil. Wherefore as it is said, Eccle 15. God from the beginning hath created man, & left him in the power of his determination: he hath also enjoined him to walk in his commandements, and keep his precepts, if thou wilt keep his commandments, they shall preserve thee, etc. Again he saith, The eyes of the Lord are over them that fear him, and he shall acknowledge every work that man doth. Yea he hath promised that the souls of the righteous are already in the hands of God, after their rest in the grave, and no torment of death shall touch them. Sapi. 3 But as for the ungodly they shall be cast into utter darkness, where shallbe weeping and gnashing of teeth. Mat 22. and shall become the food of fire unquenchable. Esay 9 Wherefore whiles we live in this mortality of the flesh, let us so labour in all virtuous and godly conversation, that we may found rest unto our souls for ever in the Lord. To this end, let us run the race of mortality, that we may receive the reward laid up in store for us, by the Lord and giver of life, even the incorruptible crown of immortality: that as true labourers we may be able to stand before the face of our workmaster, Lord, and overseer Christ jesus, & receive every one according to his days labour. Mat. 20 That so still as profitable servants we may be found working when our master shall come. Mar. 13. That having on our wedding garment, we may watchfully wait for the coming of the bridegroom▪ Mat▪ 22. And so finally with the five wise virgins attendant with lamps furnished with oil, we may be entertained with Christ jesus, the son of the eternal & everliving God that immaculate lamb, almighty Messiah, the first and the last, Apoc. 22. when he shall enter into the new and heavenly jerusalem to give freely to those that christ, the water of life, and lively fruit of his Vine in the kingdom of his father. To whom, with the father and the holy ghost, three persons and one God of incomprehensible and eternal Majesty, be all honour, glory, power, dominion and praise, for ever and ever world without end. Amen.    

¶ A Meditation for true fructifying in the Church of God, the true Vineyard of Virtue, and for the prosperous preservation of the same.  
Almighty, true, and everliving God, which as the heavenly husbandman comparest thy kingdom unto a certain man which planted a vineyard, 
Mat. 20.  went forth early to hire labourers, & made covenant with them. etc. For as much as from the first day of the worlds creation, thou hast by thy divine providence, preordinated, created, and established thee a chosen Church, thy peculiar people, as the true planted vinyeard: and by thy word and holy Gospel, hast hired thy Patriakes, Prophets and Apostles, as the first true labourers therein, by covenant of eternal salvation: And from time to time also, hast so called and sent the Nations of the earth into thy Church and vinyeard, when they stood idle, without knowledge of thee, and of their salvation: So we in England, amongst others, first called, 
Mat. 20.  sent in, and working with them at thy gracious good pleasure, have yet afterwards with others been found idle without at the third hour: And again once more last called and sent in at the sixth hour, by thy inspeakable providence, mercy and grace, now still continually labouring in the same thy true Church and vinyeard of thy Gospel and holy laws, to the great admiration, and worthy imitation of those which at the eleventh hour, by thee are to be called, hired and sent in, do with all humility and hearty affection, duly and dutifully acknowledge thy loving mercies and gracious goodness most abundantly thus bestowed upon us: And therefore most justly are bounden by all good means to become thankful unto thee for the same. Wherefore thou▪ o most gracious God, thou loving Lord, and heavenly husbandman, our only stay, supporter, and comforter, grafted us in thee, strength us with thy help, and make us fruitful branches of thee the most flourishing vine in all heavenly felicity. Look down we beseech thee from the throne of thy grace, and with thy gladsome countenance and loving favour, behold the state of thy chosen holy Church amongst us. visit this thy vinyeard with thy continual benediction, which thou hast eftsoons transposed out of Egypt. Thou hast long since cast out the Gentiles from amongst us, 
Psal. 79.  and hast hitherto, and still dost establish the same. Thou plantest the roots of thy vines, & they spread far and near. The shadow of them hath covered the hills, and the branches have spread over the Ceders of the Lord. Vouchsafe (o God) we humbly beseech thee, to hear our prayers, and grant our petitions, that we make unto thee in the name of thy beloved son our Lord jesus Christ, Continued still thy loving kindness unto us. Bless and preserve our most dear sovereign Lady and gracious Queen Elizabeth, with long life, and increase of heavenly felicity upon earth. Prospero and preserve all her most honourable counsellors, Nobles, Bishops, pastors, teachers, and preachers, with all and every other member of thy true Church, and vinyeard in these our Countries. Chase away, vanquish and overcome all our enemies. Beat back, and abandon the malice of the Romish Boar from the borders of thy vinyeard, and all other enmities of Satan and his servants utterly expel, amove from us, and vanquish for us, we beseech thee, for the glory of thy holy names sake, and for thy sons sake our Lord jesus Christ. Also as christian charity bindeth us, we pray thee of thy great mercies, to illuminate, help, and assist the weak labours of such as in foreign countries are willing, but want help and comfort to be called into thy vinyeard. Make them fruitful plants of thy grace, replenish them with thy spirit of truth, and bless them with thy blessings also: that we with them and they with us, so many as thou wilt call to salvation in this earthly Vineyard, may be gracious operation of thy holy Ghost, be made perfect labourers in thy sight, able to endure not only that very heat of the day, 
Mat. 20.  but also even to the last minute of daylight: so shall thy servants set forth thy wonderful works unto the heathen: so shall thy vinyeard flourish in the Nations upon earth. And so shall thy chosen Church and congregation, increasing, fructifying, and triumphing under thee her chief pastor, guide, and governor (receiving with all thy elect thy promised covenant of eternal salvation) tender all due honour, glory and praise unto thee, now henceforth, and for ever, world without end  
Amen.  As the branch can bear no fruit of himself except he abide in the vine: so neither can you bring forth fruit (saith our saviour Christ) except you abide in me. john. 15.  

 

  

  

  

  

   

❧ Imprinted in London by Thomas Dawson, dwelling at the three Cranes in the Vinetree.