AN HVNDRED Heavenly Thoughts. AND RESOLUTIONS, tending to draw the mind from EVIL to GOOD. Written by W. S. PREACHER of GOD'S word in S. john's of Mathermarket in Norwich. PSAL. 1.2. Blessed is the man that Meditates in God's Law, day and night. PRO. 14 22. Do they not err that devise Evil? but mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good. Printed at London by G. Elder, and are to be sold by C. W. 1616. To the Right Worshipful and my most respected friend Mrs. Anne Corbet (wife to tha virtuous and godly Gentleman Mr. THOMAS CORBET of Sprowston) a very wise godly and heavenly Gentlewoman, W.S. wisheth all prosperity. RIG●T WORSHIPFUL. I Am so tied unto you by your many favours, as I profess I know not how to carry myself in thanksgiving to you. I have here some few thoughts or Meditations which may do some good, I dedicate them to your Worship in way of thanks for your favours. If you ask me for what use they be of, I answer they are for this use, to strengthen us against the Devil, to draw our minds from foul sins, to alienate our mind from this present world which is evil; to teach us to order our lives well, and to lead us forward to the Kingdom of Heaven. These things, whiles many others let their thoughts run a thousand ways amiss, I have minded, and if they shall be read with the mind they were written, and taken on the right hand. They shall I trust not want their due effect, and good acceptance: I know they be not excellent, and yet I know they be not worst. Your Worthiness indeed (whom I have oft admired) deserves far better: yet I pray you accept these, and God I trust in time will enable me to give a further testimony of my love. So the Lord of glory keep you and all yours: From my Study in S. john's of Mathermarket in Norwich, this 26. of july. 1616. Your Worships in the best bond that may be. W. S. To the Reader. Leave thou the worst, and take the best: I'll thank thee then and wish thee blest. AN HVNDRED Heavenly Thoughts, and Resolutions, tending to draw the mind from Evil to Good. 1. A WORTHY thing it is to have a worthy name, for it is the principal ornament we have, and the fairest flower in our Garden: I had rather have a face disfigured, a house ruinous, a garment tattered, and to be in any base condition then to lose my reputation. Me thinks it is like a well arrayed ground or a pleasant place more than in any other delighted in. Therefore I vow, I will so rule my liberties, and so temper my vain affection, as rude simplicity shall have no place to disgrace me. Let Crows than keep their blackness and be contented, to feed on Carrion. I will Swanlike keep my whiteness, and delight myself in the guilded streams of goodness. It is true, my weakness is not fit for any great worthiness, yet such as I resolve to uphold myself from wickedness, a small fire is easily maintained, but once extinct, is not easily kindled. 2 IF I see a man of a comely carriage, and noble and wise behaviour, manifesting a most virtuous mind in all his actions, I will long and holily observe him, as desirous to get some tast-pleasing fruit of so fair a tree. But if on the contrary, I see him of an ill favoured disposition, I will either round him in the ear with a wholesome admonition: or else my countenance shall deliver to him in some proportion, that I mislike his wretched conversation. 3 IT is a peevish imperfection, over bitterly to glance at others reputation, and with prologues or without prologues, to let fly at them such words as may cast a great mist over their glory: And yet this I have often marked, that some liberal tongues there be, can as easily travill over Mountains as Molehills, and exercise the freedom of their Language, as well in a Lordly as a lowly subject. Hence many worthy guests bidden to men's banquets, are over-pressed with these overflowing stories, and to them cheerfulness becomes tediousness, and good entertainment is turned to discourtesy. But alas, this either argues pride, thinking to build up their own worthiness by others worthlessenes: or else barrenness of Brain that can stumble on no better subject, or else store of passion with which they are violently transported. O Lord teach me to gather fruits of Wisdom out of these occasions, and when I hear others to speak bitter, I may exercise myself to speak better, that who so marks my words proceeding from me, may know my tongue a quick messenger of grace, and perceive that store of Heavenly Thoughts have Lordship in me. 4 IT is an ordinary thing among the Vulgar to nourish up themselves with overmuch hope, & though they be conquered with pestilent passions, so that they be full of rash enmity, plentiful in impatient sorrows, abundant in idle works, swelling in haughtiness of heart, and deeply bemired in the base trade of ordinary worldlings. Yet they think that of God they may be greatly favoured: But as a child, whose wit far overgoes his age, is quickly interrupted by death. So these overstreching hopes quickly meet with an unhappy repulse. The Spider builds and is safe until the trimmers besom come, then suddenly she is displaced, dishoused, dispatched: Lo such is the uncertain hope of the popular sort who never suspect themselves till they be passed themselves. But I will build my hopes on better stays and will not be so base as to make uncertainty the base or pillar of my safety. 5 Virtues skin is so full of brave beauty, that it scorns to lodge with foul impiety: it yields no acquaintance to sin, but unfriendly: no entertainment but unkindly; but vices like thorns can hug together, and love so dearly, that if you handle them to make a separation, they will scarce spare your blood. Would a man think that fast & lose could love, lie, and link together, they be so contrary, and yet behold, this is to be found, some fast for outward things, lose for inward, worldlings, and yet wildings: some noted and steadfast misers, yet lose and unsteadfast mistresses. But as for me, I will so be fast as the poor shall untie me: And I will not be so lose, as the world shall shame me. 6 SOme vessels may last long, but yet at length will leak. And we know vessels of glass, though well tempered, yet cannot long endure. Lo thus I have deemed of worldly friends: If somewhat firm, yet not ever, for being but brittle glass, they quickly break. Then this shall be my renewed skill to wrap up my matters in secrecy, since to hold out, or rather to hold in, man is of so small ability. 7 I see that many golden hours are spent in wasting games, and many dainty days in greedy getting gains, but though it happen that some games be gainesome, and gains to others gamesome. Yet will I not encounter with such strange adventures: But mine eyes, mine ears, my tongue my head shall serve for a better inquiry. For I have always deemed it miserable to be a man of mirth, or a man of riches, and not to be (which passeth both these), a man of goodness. 8 THe aged, thinking themselves of some worthiness, for their long and learned experience, have learn to despise the young. Young folk (say they) think old folks fools, but old folks know that young folks be fools. Contrariwise, young men thinking such weakness not fit for worthiness, say, Old folks are froward, but young folks are toward. As for me, I am neither young nor old, yet age I will reverence, without contempt of youth: youth I will love without disgraceing age. Age is heavy & weighs down the frail and fleshly balance, but lifts up the noble and spiritual part. And youth is quick and lively, and though oft foiled with vain and foul fancies, yet oft replenished with virtuous delights. Give me then an old man spiritual, and a young man virtuous, and both shall go for currant. 9 We use to say that flesh is weak: and so it is, how then prevails it so much with men? surely because men are not men, for if we be men the reasonable part of our soul is to have sovereign and absolute command, against which if any sensual motions arise, we are to yield all our sound forces to the overthrowing of so unnatural a rebellion: I will therefore take courage a fresh, and since I am to deal against so weak an Adversary that in itself is nothing but weakness, I will resolve to resist it, and what right reason doth direct, by God's help I'll perfect. 10 I Have lived this thirty years, and every year hath 365. days & every day 24. hours so that one year hath 8760. hours, but 30. years, the age to which I have attained, hath 262800. hours, now in these many hours, good Lord how oft have I thought amiss, and if the hours amount to so big a sum, who can count my thoughts. And if to my thoughts I could add my unsavoury and idle words, and then to these my omitting duties and committing iniquities, might I not be ashamed, O Lord forgive thy poor Servant his innumerable sins, and teach me so to number my days, as I may apply my heart to wisdom. 11 IT is both Godly and necessary, betimes to fit for death: Godly, because God hath charged, that the ignorance of our dissolution should move us to preparation, and beside, sends to us divers messengers to give us warning, for dulled senses, weakened joints, griping griefs, and aged wrinkles, what are they but messengers of God to prepare us for death. Again, necessary, for there be two errors which cannot after commission receive correction: the one about marriage, the other about death: He then that will die well, must prepare well. Oh than I will account those blessed souls that think of these things, and those foolish and unhappy which cannot abide to hear of death. And who so by mirth or promotion would stop me from this preparation, I account him as an Host staying his drunken guest till night come, who riding then in dark, stumbles and breaks his neck. 12 TO purchase houses, men employ their deepest wits, omitting nothing that cunning can invent or power minister: for a credit they say it is to be an owner. But by God's grace I will die in the streets, before I will be purchaser or owner of some houses. The Palace of Pride, the slaughter-house of cruelty, the filthy stews of uncleanness, the building of oppression: I will ever loath, never love, nor ever by them live. And yet in the moist & fickle impression of my eyesight, behold many persons to be Lords of such, and so love their houses, as they carry them about in their hearts. 13 I Have seen many, whom, no outward cherishing could salve the sores of their mind; their reason darkened with sorrow, their hearts greatly groaning, tears have run down their eyes & their tongues have uttered many doleful notes, their countenances troubled, sometime so overpressed, that they have been dangerously sick, a spectacle of misery. But why was this? surely God had eclipsed his favour and love for shining on them. O Lord I will desire above all things to have thy love, and fear nothing but to miss the same. 14 PEace is worth seeking at all times, but especially when the enemy is valorous, and men be not of number to keep the field against his forces, yea it is then worth having though it were with loss: much more to be desired when it may be had with reasonable and honourable conditions. O my Soul! God is Almighty in power, and thou art weak: wilt thou be proud and stubbornly stout against him? canst thou match his might? Oh no. I will then value his valour, and get with loss his favour, yet I shall not lose since the forgiver is as quick as the demander: the foregoing of my holds in lusts may annome, but not so much as his dear love will joy me. 15 I Have had friends that I have thought of value but they have shaken me off either through their their unperfectness, or my unworthiness: I will therefore love the Lord above, with all the powers of my mind, whose perfect friendship no unworthiness in me nor unperfectness in him can once dissolve, for whom that he loves once he loves ever. 16 A Man in ill company is like a precious pearl fallen into the miry ground, the which the longer it lies the deeper still it sinks into it. I have pitied the case of some, that (having been of honest disposion) have fallen into such muddy mire, and so have lost their lovely qualities. But I will rather retire into some dwelling solitary, then infect my soul with such foul company. A chaste Dame if once you enter into terms of affection with her she is gone, and from you flies, as the hasty Hare from the swift greedy Grayhound: So will I fly from ill society, and greatly disdain to endanger my precious graces, amongst their dirty Impieties. 17 I Have often thought in the midst of Agonies, I should have been thirst out of my earthly habitation, and that the weak house of my body would have suffered an utter overthrow: And herein surely I have been like to a Horse, desirous to run and miserably spurred, but so short rained by his Master, as he cannot stir forward: But I know before long the reins will be loosed and I shall be so galled as I must run. I will not be so Horshish, as to gallop I know not whither; But sithence my house is like to come to ruin, I will make preparation for a more firm dwelling, least suddenly being cast out of house and harbour, I be compelled to take up a woeful Lodging. 18 THe Lord employing us in dangerous enterprises, the more our virtue is tried, yea the more pure we grow. I will learn therefore to like and not mislike, to love and not to loathe his sharpest dealings; For while many things might seem to overthrow us, they set us up upon the height of honour. 19 IF any take a spiteful grief at me, and would force me with over-vehement injuries to break peace, and to utter forth the violent passion of revenge. I will show forth no other but the fruits of a gentle nature, and I will be so far from bringing forth that which desperate revenge can imagine, that their malice shall sooner cease then my unchanged patience. 20 IT is no vulgar thing among the vulgar people to shoot their praises and commendations at random, sometimes they will sweetly speak and plentifully praise men of great worthiness: Anon they will not stick to give excessive commendations to the vilest varlets. I will not care therefore what such wethercockes tell of me: For I count it a great happiness only to be praised of them that are most praiseworthy- 21 MAny think to receive the gifts of Heaven, and yet shall receive at God's hands a resolute refusal, which will be more woeful and unwelcome to them then a bitter denial to an expected suitor: And no marvel, for it is rather credit then grace that leads most men to matter of Heaven. And when the spur of honour ceases, they willingly rest in their carnal delights, and follow the gentle currant of them: But now the most holy God hath such vile men in eternal hatefulness, and for such carriage, there shall be neither grace nor favourablenesse. So then I will labour that in me every thing may be Godly and full of sincerity, and seriously I vow, that neither credit nor favour, shall make me to slubber over duty. 22 NO close Arbour the Branches of which are so lovingly interlaced one within the other can resist the strong violence of God's eyesight, nor closest rooms which unchaste Dames count Chambers of delight, are destitute of Gods honourable presence. Why then brave Knights and fair Ladies, and all my lovely brethren & Sisters, let us rather die then spot ourselves with secret filthiness. Let us mark a diligent and nimble dog can find a scent, which we think impossible, and when God can make such a Creature to find out such a thing, shall not he be able to find out our wickedness, though we be in our Dens? Hence than I will account it extreme folly any longer to imprison iniquity. 23 AN ambitious man strives to bring others virtuous patience under him, and thinks his maister-hood nothing without doing injury to men: But I dare not be a man of such excellency, lest God should advance me to Hamans' dignity. 24 I Have thought it to be no great matter to draw many evil men to many inconveniences; especially if a man would follow them with a watch full service: for every present occasion will catch their senses, and their senses are masters of their silly minds, so that only reverence them: and delight them: and with that bridle and saddle you shall well ride them. But as for me I am determined never to be carried with such an eager & impatient delight of any thing, as the nimble wits of the world shall with their lewd enticements draw me to sin. 25 IT is no unusual thing to make hard-wrested constructions of words oft proceeding from the kindest natures, which apprehended as true, estranges love and eclipses affection from shining any longer. But I have often thought and will do still, that the construction of men's speeches might be best made by the Grammer-rules of affection. 26 I Find that to a heart fully resolute to preach the truth, hateful persons and ignorant asses, to whom Counsel is tedious and reprehension loathsome (both in word and deed work much annoyance, an evident token of an ignorant and shallow mind. Shallow Brooks murmur, most deep silent slide away: and I have heard Pies chattering, when better Birds have held their peace. Mine ear then shall such up kind Counsels and wholesome reprehensions, which true loving teachers scatter before me. And I will be so far from reproaching them, that my kindest courtesy shall be employed for them. 27 MAny men think on nothing but their sports, seek nothing but their sports. To their delights their attendance is directed, and to their pleasures the best fruits they can gather are brought. And surely once I thought these men in the highest blissefulnesse. But experience grounded on feeling hath taught me a better lesson, and hath learned me that the wickeds sing must be closed up with hearty groanings. I will bless the Lord that hath vouchsafed to me a better happiness, and that hath loved me so, as to bring me among the sweet company of his beloved Saints: I say sweet indeed, which I will not forsake for the world's fair delights: for God is their saying, and God is their singing, and God is the Lodestar of their life, the blessing of their eyes, the sweetness of their heart. Lord let me live and die in this sweet and heavenly society. 29 SOme I have beheld very famous and notable for goodness, but since finding godliness very tedious, & being deadly tired with the length of the uncomfortable labour of it, they have discarded it, giving themselves to outrageous licentiousness in which they so flesh themselves, as I think they mean not to stop their race till they come to a headlong overthrow. Thus like some Mornings, they have made gilden shows of good meanings; but after clouds have risen pouring out water and blacking over all the face of Heaven. But I am resolved to put forth my hand to every most painful Office, rather than to be dissevered from the practice of godliness. 29 MEn may marvel, why so frail and weak a creature as man, should yet so harden and stiffen himself in sin against God, as he will not be reclaimed: But is it not because his power is forgotten? his Sovereign Lordship over all the creatures not carefully considered? For if these were currently conceived, the valiantest of men would find inward dismaidness, and be deeply cast down for fear of hellish darkness. The Mariners see when the heavens favour; the Sea favours also, and they may be safe then and lie calmly: but if the Heaven frown, and the winds begin to speak loud, and as in a tumultuous Kingdom to think themselves fittest instruments of commandment, than the sea will storm also: and the stoutest of them all wax aghast and astonished. I will there fore keep in a clear Haven and seek the favour of the highest: and then no inferior Creature will show itself wayward to me. 30 We count it a miserable condition to be at Sea, in such a boisterous storm as the ship wherein we are hath neither power to stay, nor way to escape: but being carried with the Tyranny of the wind, and the treason of the sea, with unresistible violence falls to destruction. But O how miserable is it then to be tossed and tottered with the outrageous fury of sin and Satan, when men shall have nothing in them but despair of safety, and an expectation of a loathsome end? This is a misery that goes beyond the degrees of comfort. I will therefore fly upon my sins, whiles I have time to master them, and I will leave none of them alive lest they should thus annoy me. 31 AS it is in a storm at the sea, that in it we may see the divers manners of minds in distress, some sitting weeping and wailing, till the sea swallow them, some one more able to abide death then the fear of death, cuts his own throat to prevent drowning, some pray, some curse, as if the Heavens could not be more angry than they were: so in the storm of reproof, some weep, some pray, some fret, and some one or other cuts his own throat, and works unexpected mischief. O the forcible power of the word that hath such strange effects: I will evermore admire thee, and in admiring thee love thee. 32 I Have thought often, O that I could serve God as I wish. But since I cannot do as I would, I will still go on and content myself with that measure of grace my father hath bestowed upon me. 33 GOod men and such as be of a most sweet carriage and fair demeanour, are often unjustly subjecteth to outrageous wrongs, ill speeches, rude welcomes, hard farewells be their kindest comforts from ill disposed persons, when as to the wicked like themselves their hearts can tumble with overmuch kindness: O wretched man thus to lay the fairest complexion on the filthiest favour, and to set forth both in self-sluttishnesse: methinks a certain spark of holy indignation arises in me while I think of it. No excellent spirits will do themselves such wrong: But since it hath pleased the highest power to throw good men to such estate: I will give passage to my thoughts and rest content, knowing that though I be a cumbersome Guest among men, yet of God I shall have sweet refreshing. 34 MAn is so fond as he desires things both unlawful and unpossible▪ but alas, poor wretch in so desiring he desires punishing, for unlawful desires are surely punished after the effect of enjoying, and impossible desires are punished in the desire itself. I will not then desire any thing, but I will weigh by Wisdom and Virtue whether it be lawful and possible. 35 divers young men of the bravest mind, led with the blindness of lust and rage, never linne till they have performed some notable mischief, thinking themselves the only men of most approved goodness, but when they have hurt guiltless persons, and feel the smart of punishment. O the cowardice of a guilty conscience! angry threatenings and light hurts to these strong hearts are grievous wounds, and so strange as they faint and know not how to bear them. So then, a good Conscience shall be to me a Castle, out of which I will not step so much as a hairs breadth. 36 MAny are masters of lands that are not masters of themselves, who though great shows are made to blind the world, yet have no other thoughts than come of unquiet senses. Hear poisonous heats of affections torments them, there strange guests invade their souls, fond and foul desires have strength to conquer them. A woeful thing to enjoy other things, but not to enjoy a man's self. But I will endeavour that no spotted thoughts shall conquer me my life to stain, lest I fall to outrageous follies. 37 WHen I consider man's meanness, I wonder God did not disdain to lay any treasure with him, where they are stained with so many imperfections. But this is the will of our excellent Creator, who (whatsoever we deem) will hide rare gifts under such earthen vessels. Oh therefore I will give thanks to God that sets a Crown on my base estate, and vouchsafes to descend to my poor matters, meaning by his divine hand to embrace me, and from my baseness to turn me unto high preferment. 38 SOme have entangled themselves so in folly, that they be tied fast with the bonds of necessity: but he that suffers himself to be surprised by necessity, doth no more any thing freely his counsels is and actions savour of a troubled judgement. I vow then to keep myself from folly, that I may think and do at liberty. 39 TO do well among men of honour is easy and ordinary, but not to suffer himself to be transported with the corruptions of the time, nor to follow the violent passions of a multitude, but to desire the good, to dare undertake it, and to effect it in a bad season, in the which vice is honoured with the recompense of virtue, it is an infallible argument of a spirit wonderfully disposed by nature to all good & commendable things. I purpose therefore by God's grace in the midst of corruption to have virtue for my portion. 40 OF great friends are made greatest enemies hatred so follows and accompanies friendship, Plutarch. Chilon told him that vaunted he had no enemies that he should also have no friends. I will then so use my friends, as I look they should be mine enemies, and only my God shall be my strongest hold who in the day of trouble knows them that trust in him. 41 IT is hard to repair and recompense the injuries done to faith and reputation. Famae et fidei damna maiorae sunt, quam quae aestimari queant. The losses of our fame and faith be greater than can be deemed. I will be wary then how I run on such rocks as gives me such knocks. 42 CHristianity I have oft resembled to a school in which are golden books, and severe, yet fruitful teachers. But as inother schools it frequently falls out, so in this: For as I have seen trim books dight in velvet, and decked with golden leaves, much please the unacquainted sight of silly boys, until the Rod began to play his part, than they would feign be gone: so whilst many fools have apprehended pleasing objects in Christ's school, Christianity should be as dear to them as their embosomed guest, but when the master hath given some noisome blows, as ill appointed Knights they fly the field, and suck from thence a mortal mislike of such a life: But with good grace I speak it, in this school all things are beautiful: And with a feeling declaration my tongue shall utter, that my teacher's blows be sweetest blows of love. 43 I Have thought of those that do abuse the Ministers, that they do corrupt the watchmen Oh then! when the great Captain shall come the corrupter and the corrupted shall smart for it. 44 I See many noble wits bend themselves to mean subjects when they might bend their minds to higher thoughts: they furnish themselves with very fair apparel, fine deckings they think much beautify them: they erect stately buildings, dainty devices much delight them; hunt, hawking, gamings, dicing and dancing be only joys: They give noble entertainment to strangers: show frankness of mind to friends, and set out every thing in most gorgeous manner to the dignifying of their honour. But where be the men whose excellency of mind hath taken up a well chosen course in virtue? where be the men that have well trained and long exercised their minds in more excellent and heavenly contemplations, that have appareled & decked their mind with grace: A man might show thousands to these things smaly inclined whiles they omit no toil nor service in the other. Unhappy men so to divert their thoughts from the ways of goodness, and to lose, nay to abuse their time, I bear great honour to the names of these: But Lord let me be bedded in my grave, rather than wedded to such iniquity as should cause my affections to be estranged from thee. 45 RIch men are counted the richest jewels, although they be neither well form by nature, nor framed by education to the true exercise of virtue: These have the largest praises, the most earme entreaties, the highest Titles, the most humble service, and the lowest reverence: These be reckoned the only blessed, the high Cedars, the rich Rubies the only shining suns. But if God have any skill in painting out men's conditions men's marks be taken amiss: for he will tell us riches without virtue is nothing grateful, and some that have been acquainted with rich men's private sorrows, will constantly affirm that their muddy abundance is full of carking agonies. King's Crowns cannot help them from the cruel headache, nor shoes of gold preserve from the painful gout. I will never therefore plunge my thoughts into riches bondage, but look after and long for my heavenly inheritage. 46 I Marvel much why men should be trans- with such over-vehement affection, to taste so greedily of the world's vanities, and so much to let loose the rains of their desires to such fickle movables. What conceit is it they build upon? do they think such only favoured and advanced of God? No, the eternal spring of virtue testifies he hath such men in eternal hatefulness: do they think to be honoured of men? Oh yes, with Churl and Carl and Cormorant, and such deformed titles. So then, I will seek no better wealth than a quiet Conscience, nor greater pleasures than heavens excellencies. Stand far then filthy Covetousness from me: I'll be no Carl no Kite, no Cormorant, but a liberal Christian, a liberal Christian is my name, and a liberal Christian is my title, & Christianity which loves liberality shall be the only hope of my advancement: For my name's sake I cannot love thee, and for my maker's sake I must and will detest thee. 47 I Have often thought eating, drinking, and stuffing the carcase, a shrewd burden and intolerable yoke; it dulls the cheerful limbs, and hales the body to unworthy servitude: to long and strong diseases, to overpressing pangs, and after to untimely deaths: it bemires the thoughts of the soul deeply in the trade of uncleanness: it hinders the vigorous mind from feeding on higher thoughts. The eternal God forbidden then that I should so be fettered, Let mighty beasts be stalled and fatted with their dainty variety. I will take a more happy resolution, and strike such fast friendship with sober moderation as my mind shall be a free master to entertain whole armies of heavenly thoughts and my body a ready servant forthwith to welcome such noble guests. I will think it foul scorn to yield my sanctified body to such iniquity. And I will not be such an enemy to myself, as to imprison myself, or to defile myself with gross impurity. 48 SOme Virtues among foul Vices, are like Pearls in a dunghill. I have known some of exceeding good parts, full of wittiness, admirable for tongue delight, endued with clear understandings and hony-flowing speech, and almost every way so excellent, as if a man would make a description of them, a man might set such a note upon them, as might make them very notable unto you: yet their, exceeding worldliness with their close hypocrisy, hath altogether disgraced the other assembly of their most commendable virtues, no otherwise then ragged penury oft overthrows a lovely beauty. I will labour therefore that every part of my life may be an ornament to me. And as I love not a ragged raiment for decency, nor a patched payment for money: so neither like I to tender a torn life to God's divine excellency: but bearing shows in my countenance of honesty and well mindedness. I will resolve in all things to be blameless. 49 IF cruel and fierce beasts did range in dangerous sort anongst us, we would carefully provide good defences against such mischiefs, giving those beasts many mortal and manful wounds, how marvelous a matter is it then, that when the horrible foul Devil, like a ramping and roaring Lion, furiously prosecutes us, we employ not our endeavours to his overthrow, but suffer him to fasten his claws (most cruel impressions of wonderful passions) upon us. Oh thou in whom all power and defence is harboured, teach me thy truth, a sufficient bulwark against such mischiefs. 50 WHat hath man that may make him so lickerous of commendation, his stout and courageous heart, alas, as it is sometime valiant, so often it is overpressed with mighty passions of grief and fear; his judgement: why the deepest judgement is oft mistaken, and grossly errs, reason being grown a servant to passions: his sharp wit? why the best wits are often troubled with unperswadable melancholy, yea many their wits cracked with violent affections: his wisdom? what need he when he hath many Paragons: his brave beauty? why the state of the mind is better than the state of the body, and we know that aged wrinkles deface fairest faces. Lastly his riches or pleasures? why outward delights and fertile grounds are but halting helps to decaying souls. Lo than I will count myself vile, and know my weakness to be unfit for any worthiness: and if my friends in their speeches give me any commendation, I will think they speak not so much of judgement as blinded with affection. 51 I Have often seen a poor man inritching his clothes, and a wealthy man whose clothes have inritched him: In the former, his best part is inward, in the latter, his best outward. But truly I had rather be in rude raiment, with an unspotted simplicity, then to be set in highest dignity with folly. 52 IT is great indiscretion to bandy against a power invincible and matchless, such power hath GOD: the valiantest of men that dare oppose him shall find dismaydnesse. They can no more avail than the Emmot pull down a Cedar: I am resolved then to put my hand to every painful office that I may please my GOD, but I will never dare to fortify wickedness to the provoking of him. 53 OFt have I mused what monster wrought my harm in blunting if not breaking the love of my dearest & nearest friends: At length I found that suspicion and facility to believe all things, ruins friendship and batters the walls of the sweetest and firmest affections: oh then that some of my friends would be less suspicious, and not so credulous, that my choicest friends might not prove so unkind and boisterous. It is a very sensible displeasure to be refused of a dear friend. 54 MEn are more discontented to see themselves frustrated of things promised, then of those which are but hoped for: in the one there is but mishap, & they complain only of fortune in the other contempt, and they challenge him that hath broken his promise. I will promise nought then but what I mean to perform, for I know the nature of man is more sensible of contempt then of loss. 55 THe just (saith GOD) shall live by faith. I will think then every day I rise I have no life, if I do not walk all that day by faith, doing nothing but that may seem good in the eyes of GOD, and what I am fully persuaded pleases him 56 IT was well said. King's Crowns do not help them from the cruel headache: nor shoes of gold doth heal the gout. Riches avail not in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death, this is a received rule. How is it then young men wax so proud of wealth and present age so lofty. An aged Gentleman of an approved goodness could say. That this boyish bravery would bring one day a perplexed mind. How shall wise men like then such Gentlemen as be earnest in every present humour, and make themselves brave in their own liking. Oh be they not like a bubble blown up with their own small-proud breath and quickly shall be broken with a greater. Had I then millions of gold I would think that these outward pleasures would smally pleasure my soul: Small greatness here, if guilty conscience near. I think it greater greatness to get the surest kingdom. 57 EXperience hath taught me, Miseries do oft begin when as they seem to end. Have I not known some discarded after many notable deserts, which was the more notable to them because they fell from excess of favour from a heap of sweets expected, to a heap of sorrow, rejected. Have I not known sorrow creep suddenly amidst joy, whiles friends treat of marrying, news comes of death. I think then there is not any man, but may have more harm than he hath had good. If honey come then and the sweetest pleasures, I vow to look for change, and to expect, that Sorrow like a Bear is ready to give me a shrewd embracement. 58 IT is usual amongst men to accuse Nature, or else men's company, or to cast their complaints on the evil times, or some way or other to diminish sin, and to form for themselves substantial excuses. They are cunning to find pleasing names for things which are bitter and nought. But alas this is nothing. He that will break with his friend never fails to find occasions, so may we a thousand, if we will break with God. I protest I will never do so. No remembrance of others noughtiness, shall delight me to gild over my guiltiness, if it should what did I else, but make my scratchings incurable wounds. 59 I Have often observed that many mornings make gilden shows of good meanings, and yet afterwards clouds have risen pouring out water and blacking over all the face of heaven. Surely not unlike have I seen among the sons and daughters of men. Lord what glittering shows have I beheld, whence I have discied the foulest and blackest heart? What calmness of sea? whence suddenly hath rose outrageous waves: what loving company? mild mouth? honey words? when under all hath closely been dissembled a cruel mind: Lord shield me from such ugly beasts, whom thou wilt one day fling into the pit of hellish darkness. I know there is no danger carries with it more horror than this so adverse to thy truth. Keep me therefore from this desperate daubing. 60 Injuries done to faith and reputation, are not easily repaired, nor recompensed, yet men through desperate ambition do oft commit this outrageous wrong: what evil surmises, shrewd suspicious mad meditations be in some? which being carried with the current of this disposition, do receive all things with the hardest interpretation, condemn all men of evil, because their mind hath no eye to espy goodness? But what is there not but in hard wrested constructions may be counted a blot: so men of incomparable worth may be debased. I vow to drive away such beastly furies, and to scour my head of such surmises, lest they be an unhappy occasion of staining my brother's reputation. 61 THe tongue well tuned makes most pleasant music, and is to man a principal ornament: but men have made it a very false Ambassador delivering affections whereof their heart is utterly void. What dolorous discourses shall you hear when heart within hath mighty delight? what mighty delights when heart within makes dolorous discourse? What kindly terms tongue turneth out, when malicious matter is wrapped in secrecy? What malice in mouth when kind conceits with in? What coy and thundering speeches oft deny a thing, when the heart with dumb eloquence desires it. And are not these now excellent people? The false Ambassador must be cut off for his presumption, so let the tongue of such be cut out that talk on such a fashion. I'll tune my tongue aright; if sighs hearty sorrow sounds, if cheerful be my heart, my tongue shall show it. 62 CHrist was more pure than the nicest eye can find a spot in, his judgement sound, his affections spotless, his inward worthiness shined through the foulest mists. No marvel if he be set for our example. O rare example! not to be hoped for of any other. Away from me all ye that delight in horrible foulness: I delight not in your unpleasant company, your life is rusty and ill-favoured. I will cast mine eye to my beloved Saviour: he was full of beauty, sweetness, and noble Conversation. 63 THe haughty heart of man thinks it foul scorn willingly to submit to be ruled by God's teachers: they nourish themselves in overmuch vain hope: But did they know and acknowledge their value, what heart so hard, and ear so barbarous, but would be employed to hear and yield. Would men would give resolute refusals or happy resolutions to hear his voice. I'll tread the path let them now follow. Speak Lord for thy servant heareth: what thou biddest be done I resolve to undertake. 64 COnceit is much: some think so highly of their own, as others cannot reach unto them, but if they be crossed with better Conceits, than burst they out into rage and bitterness, such troublesome effects self-conceit breeds: Then will they lie and swear to get advantage: But by their leave who so tells a lie and adds an oath: I count his conceits deceits, and I esteem him weak in wit and vile in conscience. O Lord than let me not brag much of any wit I have, lest while I would show myself witty, I demonstrate a heart too far possessed with folly. 65 ALl men covet to be Best, fain would we surpass one another, but the wrong course is taken: Hard fair, great journeys, dangerous attempts, mischievous councils, unmerciful force, mortal wounds are under-gone and undertaken, and all to be Best, that is forsooth to be richest: But alas it is not so, he that sins lest is the best man, and he that sins most is the worst. Oh then, I will fly from sin, and I will account myself excellentest, when from sin I can stand the farthest. 66 WHen learned men come among rude & unskilful swains, they many times have not ordinary courtesy from them, yea often they have given unto them an unkind and shrewd welcome, I marvel not at it, for between them and virtue there was never knit a fast friendship by any education. Their wit is so base they cannot conceive the beauty and sweetness of a learned life: But though such love to drink on the draff, let my life be spent among the learned breasts: For this I know: He that leaveth the learned to live with the ignorant may happen on some wealth, but he shall never be wise. 67 Who so hath gotten virtue possesses a Lady of great beauty, and such a beauty, as shows forth the beams of wisdom, where ever it comes. Indeed deep sorrows, strange wrongs, often mightily darken her excellency for a time. But as the excellent and swift running Sun quickly breaks out, and kindly cheers the short and sweet nibbled grass, so Lady virtue quickly adorns her owner, and well arrays him with most pleasant grace. Lord give me virtue then rather than the exquisitest dainties and daintiest varieties, that high conceits can fancy. 68 I Hold it a base thing to be straightened by unworthy servitude, a man can not then go to behold delightful prospects, nor step aside to have his sorrowful mind supported. He cannot walk to hear the cheerful and well tuned Birds, or to see the pretty Lambs with bleating oratory crave the dams comfort, limited he is, and he must give attendance. But more base I deem it, when Satan so shall fetter a man, that he may not behold Gods holy Temple, where he may have his sorrowful soul solaced with Preachers breath, more sweet than south-west wind, that he cannot hear Gods sweet wel-tuned Birds, nor see God's Lambs desiring milk. 69 DEath strikes to some a dreadful terror, others are not moved at his terrible countenance, but by their hardiness despise death. Some when he comes gives him a cheerful welcome. The first is base and servile, the second is courage without skill, the third is truly valiant. Lord give me a resolute heart that when I shall be dangerously sick I may not faint: Let me have courage guided with skill, and skill armed with courage, that when death shall cast his rueful dart, I may give thee my heart, and leaving this world, I may feed my mind with higher thoughts, and more excellent contemplations, longing to be in heaven, my delightful country and my heavenly dwelling. 70 HOnour oft fetches his earth where he will grow from out of the popular sort: so low dunghills are fetched to fairest fields: but whiles the poor earth is thus exalted, it gets a new quality, and holds no more his former, than the child that hath leave to play, holds the last part of his lesson. Times altar natures, & honours change manners: So such as have disdained all chamber delights, now like and entertain them with pleasant discoursing. Those who would not think a thought, that is not weighed by wisdom and virtue, now can cherish most abominable actions. O Lord though thou shouldst set me high yet let me know a virtuous heart will never yield to villainy. 71 FRiendship now a days is so rare, as it is to be doubted whether it be a thing indeed, or but a word, most make love to others, and yet love no body but themselves: sweet terms and kindest courtesy, things ordinary, when yet their hearts within be naughty. But howsoever their walk be close, yet oftentimes their own feet betray them, for they themselves utter themselves to be but enemies. O ill employed courtesy! I bear great honour to a friend that is hearty, but Lord let me loath hypocrisy and all such human inhumanity. I know some friends whose words bring forth actions, God bless them, and continue them unto me, but if ever it fall that I lose them, I shall have hearty mourning for the loss of their sweet conversation. 72 GOd is too strong for my poor power to resist, he can either with cunning or with force, or rather by his cunning force disfigure and deface me: as he gave me a timely birth, so he can give me an untimely death. O then how great soever my other business be (Oh most mighty God) I will most willingly wait on thee, though my weak body be as a ruinous house, yet thou canst make me dwell in safety. 73 IN my time I have met with strange and unpleasant changes. Oft I have found over-vehement constancy hath proved sudden Apostasy, and pleasant company turned to be the forgers of folly. This hath made me cry out. A constant Lover is an admirable Creature. But though such be the times. I am resolved to carry myself in all my demeanour, so constantly that I will endure any extremity, rather than in her sweetest growth to destroy virtue. 74 IF Hippocrites be once unmasked, fame will be very prodigal of so notable an accident: and all will understand what before the fortifier of wickedness had concealed. It will make mountains of their sins, and over these the hypocrite as a tossing and tottering ship on wallowing waves, shall mount aloft to be strait carried down to the pit of hellish darkness. Thus shall they be carried by the tyranny of fame's blast. And the longer they live in sin, the more wayward will fame be to them. Lord keep me from all close dissembling that such outrageous waves may never shake me. 75 SOmetimes with heedful observation I have beheld the water Spaniels sport: he hunts the diving Duck, he waits to spy her rise again, he swims, he snuffles, he in weeds himself, and all to please his master and make him sportfulness. O what a wretch is man that imitates not this Creatures diligence! Even with my strongest desire, I wish I may show more sedulity in serving my father heavenlily, lest this Creatures diligence do shamefully condemn me. 76 MAny vile things we see, to which we are carried with an eager and impatient delight which things whiles thus we disorderly love, we disguise our bodies and disfigure our minds but then especially if led with swiftness of desire, any thing cross us. Love crossed is a monstrous Lion: and like a valiant beast with open jaws it tears us. I have said in my heart than I will look to my ways my desires shall be to thee O Lord. Not whatsoever likes me shall be beautiful, but what likes thee shall be to me delightful. 77 THis world is so far possessed with security, that nothing is so strong can purge it of that infection. The Ministers of God leave nothing unsaid which their wit can make them know, or their deep love to people can require of them yet nothing avails. They use more cunning entreating for men's abode in God's holy fear, than any greedy Host can use to a well paying passenger. Yet cannot their prayers prevail. Yea Gods rod deeply wounds and oft he wounds again and rubs us with griefs afresh, yet such is security in men, as they can no more lay it from them, than the Crow can be persuaded by the Swan to cast off all his black feathers. But Lord let me remember, a child that fears not the rod, will hardly prove gracious, and men that live securely and fear not God will be in Hell, ere they be aware. 78 IT cannot be imagined how well some have conned the lesson of secrecy. They are so artificial, as they cannot be hunted out of their villainy. They can bear shows in their countenance of honest and well minded men and with seeming virtue satisfy others when no goodness is nourished in their hearts. These steal sin, and none must know it, neither must any fame bring it to our ears. But do these persons think to see heavens excellencies? or thus to delude and mock GOD'S Holy Majesty. Oh no, stolen sins are sweet if the stealer could scape, but he shall be catched and so shall pay for his hunting. 79 IT is strange to see the unmanlike cruelty of of mankind, for many are so tyrannically ambitious, as they think their maisterhoods nothing worth, unless they do injury to the virtuous. Hence to holy ones are stirred up wrongs and griefs intolerable. They are misused, slandered, belied and what not? Their tables are served with bitter roots and furnished with salads of wormwood: A fool and a knave cannot take thought, whilst an honest heart is full of sorrows. But sure it is. A noble cause eases much a gievous case. This is the Godlies' golden solace. And though man to man bring misery, yet comfort enough in this, if thou be free from iniquity. If I meet then with Helhownds that cross me, yet I'll take heed that sight of sin do not also toss me. 80 YOung Gentlemen many times are carried with over-vehement desire to see and behold the rare sights of foreign nations: therefore they take great journeys strange courses, under go oftentimes unpleasant companies: and sometimes get mortal wounds and cruel executions. They oft go so far as they never return, meeting with unexpected mischiefs, But as for me I well can say. A far travailer seethe much but he that goes to Heaven makes a happy journey. The rare sights of this world shall never so please my fancy, as they shall draw me from the ravishing delights I see in divinity. 81 Sins committed cause mighty grief to a holy heart: but God teaches his how to drive away the extremity of sorrow, and to obtain abundant joyfulness: sight of sin with narrow eyes: humble submission for deadly deeds: vehement desire for merciful favour, strong resolutions of future obedience make a sweet electuary to chase away griefs fury. An electuary comfortable indeed, for so the sinner escapes his deadly danger. Yet this I have always thought, the escape out of sins danger is comfortable, yet to keep quite out of it, is a heap of wisdom. 82 MAny men in this world have goodly portions, which yet are unfit for the meanest consultations. How oft do we see wisdoms and virtues precepts, better followed by a beggar then by such as be richer, great ones often make a mock at virtue, and many be fortunate that be not wise. But who so happily hath this double portion, to follow virtue as well as riches. I shall bless my eyes with that joyful sight, and shall esteem such as most precious jewels. 83 We see many rich men fairly and handsomely attired as though they were children of the Summer, they possess fair fields, ride on milk white horses, sit in coaches richly furnished in black and red and all variety. Surely most comely sights, and such as calls the ruder eye to view them. Yet the godly wise can see that many of these are vilely foul and unhandsome in their minds and souls, in the works of God as slow as slowest jades. I will deem of these, as these use to speak of their horses. A fair horse is comely to look on, but if he prove heavy, he is nought for travel. 84 travailers whiles they journey, sometime they step into delicate greene's and most pleasant grounds cunningly be set with trees able to shelter from a shower, sometimes they walk on barren heaths, where if sturdy storms do come, they can find no redress. Lo such is the life of man now fair, now foul, now sweet, now sour, now green, but strait miry: sometime full of delectation, anon turmoiled with affliction. But since I must travail through this world's wilderness. I resolve to account my afflictions as my necessary business yea and on good experience I speak it. The Storms of affliction scours the faithful, and happy shall he be endures to the end. 85 IT is a wonder to see, how devoutly religious many seem to be, which yet are nothing so. They will show a most pure and dainty complexion (so that the viewer shall be wonderfully mistaken) and yet be most vile in their conversation. Stayed thoughts and virtuous words shall yield you proofs of their goodness, but in the uttermost event of matters, all proves a rotten Carcase. My care shall be then that my deeds shall be suitable to my words. And I will testify that as I think and speak, so I desire to do virtuously, for else my enemies may rightly say, great boast & small roast makes a cold kitchen. 86 WHere Lady Virtue takes up her lodging, Diligence waits on her with most humble service, but idleness is shut out of doors, she dares not speak, no nor look (as from her miserable self) unto her heavenly highness: for her steps are too slow to follow virtues train, and therefore she denies her service. I resolve then to be full of sedulity, that I may keep Lady virtue company. I will not be like such Gentlewomen that mar their complexions, and conditions with lying long in bed, when as they might have made a handkerchief by that time they rise. 87 TO set out strifes is a matter to monstrous for my capacity: I have earnestly besought some for peace when they have burst out to fury and shown far more stirring motions to iniquity. But are not these worse than flies & more absurd then Ants. The flies live together in swarms, and the Aunts live quietly in heaps but men can hardly make a company to live in quiet. But O Lord let me enjoy peaceableness, while others are overcome with strifes tediousness. 88 IF we see fair and beautiful persons, we are oft vehemently carried with shows of affection to them: we then take liberty to lose the rains to our senses delights: and our reason now servile to passion accepts no satisfaction without enjoying. But O how oft have I been taught that poisoned drink may be in a golden cup. When I see then a woman of beauty, I'll watch if I can spy any virtue: If I descry none, I'll not care a straw for her company. 89 A Blessed man he is that hath such qualities as he is beloved in all good companies, & whose society draws to godliness: but cursed are those whose foul courses carry men to wickedness. To which not only nature bends them but the base bringing up they receive at their Parents hands confirms them. But if he that sets a a traveler out of his way commits villainy, so these drawing out of the way of heaven, shall smart for such iniquity. 90 THe children of God me thinks are full of beauty: I find in them most lovely sweetness. Lambs they be, and therefore gentle, Doves they be, and therefore simple. The wicked me thinks are full of deformity: I find in them most loathsome bitterness. Dogs they be, and therefore currish, Swine they be and therefore swinish. Oh than I will much and greatly delight in the blessed Saints and detest the cursed doers. For the Lamb and the Dove are two pretty Creatures, but the Dog and the Hog are sullen beasts. 91 THe dainty varieties of pleasing delights that be among the wicked, draw men's minds with easy consent to vanity: sometimes short and sudden delights: sometimes long and pleasant devices are offered, but all be higher points & stairs to sin, oh that man knew the great growing of the stinking weed of sin: virtue grows not without exquisite labour, sin alone & willingly: virtue springs after a long season, sin quickly & in a short space gets up; yea sin though but a spark sets all on fire presently. I purpose then that mine eyes shallbe watchful and my heart resolute, that not the least weed of sin shall grow in me, for I see of a little kernel grows a great tree, of a little spawn a great fish. 92 THe outward duties of God's service, I see have long & holily been observed by many: but the inward and hearty duties I fear me of a few. Call upon our formalists to practise some noble deeds of virtue: hereto you shall find them smally inclined. But did they serve GOD aright, their minds so well trained and long exercised in virtue, would give some rare demonstration of it. As for me, I ever will conceive, To go to Church for fashion is an abuse of Religion, and to pray without devotion, is breath to no purpose. 93 Such heaps of sorrows accompany this life as require a virtuous resolution of mind to pass them over: sometimes heaviness of heart assails us, strange stories scar us: dangerous sickness afflicts us, and we cannot be quiet, but long to be in our delightful country and heavenly dwelling. Hence this hath been my resolute thought. He that will hold out the year must bide the winter and summer, and he that will go to Heaven must endure the miseries of this world. 94 IF we could behold an armed man of an extreme and unresistible force whose violence a thousand thousand could not withstand; it would breed in us some marvelous contemplations: but greater & extremer force and violence we know in sin, yet we are no whit amazed at it: Angels in heaven, men on earth are weak to conquer sin. But thanks be to Christ that hath gotten victory. But since sins force is so violent: I'll ruefully eye him, but not come nigh him. A sword hath a sharp point, and a Cannon a great force, but let them alone and they will do no harm. 95 Such is the foul baseness of Man, as the very beasts out stripe him, yea and in many things do teach him. Some hypocrites there be artificially smoothing up and smothering sin which have not art enough to learn to avoid it although the dumb creatures instruct them. Have I not seen a dog rejoice at the sight of his Master: when his unchaste Mistress will frown at his coming home? Oh fact full of wretchedness, fuller of disgrace, and fullest of guiltiness. Oh Lord keep me that my affections be not drunken with such beastly sins, and that I may not be governed by them. 96 WIth unspeakable grief I have thought on the abominable wrongs offered by cruel men to GOD'S poor Saints, that should have greatest kindness: Poor hearts by lofty spirits are broken with unkindness and affliction. Yet comfort comes from above, which cheers their vital spirits. But oh how these thoroughly wound their consciences and will God suffer these wrongs? Oh no, but he will shake the seat of these secure Tyrants. Me thinks they are worse than soldiers stabbed at heart. For he that is wounded at heart hath made an end of his days: but he that hath a wound in his soul knows not when to end his sorrow. 97 Such as were nearly acquainted with sin: and have discarded it, know the poisonful disposition of it: it spreads itself as dead poison in a cup, and like a plague infects the soundest persons, virtue is not so spreading, not so speedy in conveying. I marvel not then, why so many be bad, and so few good. It is because truth hath much a do to be believed, but a lie runs far before it be stayed. 98 O Full often hath my breast swollen with eager desire of heaven, for when I beheld the earth, mine eyes (being my diligent intelligencers) carries me to much comfortableness: In this world weep and mournings, change, and turnings, vanity and folly every where abounds, and he that is in highest estate even as a poor wretch with languishing steps runs fast to his grave: But in heaven are all incomparable excellencies and uneffable dignities. Oh sweet and noble place to be in. I'll be more glad than Children be of sweet meat to go to such a country, and to dwell in this never enough praised City. The vigour of men's wit, that can show itself in any subject, must here be blunted: they cannot speak enough of this ever-noble City if they compare it with the country, they show therein most rude simplicity, if with the Court. Alas a Rich Court is a goodly sight, but he that looks up to Heaven will not care for the world. 99 WHo so when they see good can love it, and affect it. I count such persons my principal friends, whose acquaintance I would not superficially entertain, for sure there is no joy in our life if we enjoy not such companions, with such I learn holy helps to heaven, and happy resolutions, with such I am instructed to conquer passions, but he that flies from good and scoffs at God I count him already with the Devil. And though he walk in the world yet he hath a hell in his conscience. This shallbe then mine earnest entreaty unto God, that such good and worthy friends which be this world's comfort, may not be drawn away from me by my bad desert. 100 MEn have in use a twofould Glass: One most for the proud Man, the other for the Wise. The proud man whiles he looks in his Glass, waxes the prouder: The humble while on his, he waxes the wiser. O Lord grant, while the proud Man's looking-glass makes him the prouder; my Hourglass may make me wise to remember my end. FINIS.