CURES WITHOUT CARE, OR A SUMMONS TO ALL SUCH WHO FIND LITTLE OR no help by the use of ordinary physic to repair to the Northern Spa. WHEREIN By many precedents of a few late years, it is evidenced to the world, that infirmities in their own nature desperate and of long continuance have received perfect recovery, By virtue of Mineral waters near Knaresborow in the West-riding of Yorkshire. Also a description of the said water, and of other rare and useful springs adjoining, the nature and efficacy of the Minerals contained in them, with other not impertinent notes. Faithfully collected for the public good by M. St. Tibul. — felix quicunque dolore Alterius disces posse carere tuo. LONDON, Printed by William jones, dwelling in Red-crosse-street. 1632. TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE THOMAS LORD WENTWORTH of Wentwoth Woodhouse, Baron Newmarch and Oversley, Viscount Wentworth, Lord Precedent of his Majesty's Council established in the North, Lord Lieutenant of the County of York, Lord Deputy of the Kingdom of Ireland, and one of his Majesty's most honourable Privy Council. RIGHT HONOURABLE, I Had once (I confess rashly) given leave that this small Treatise should put on the Printers livery without the convoy of a protecting pass. But as I cast my last eye upon it, it appeared to me like a naked man ready to encounter an army. For there are not more men, than volleys of censorious shot, that stand ready prepared to batter any novelty. This consideration forced me suddenly to look out for a defensative guard, against the daring boldness of this critical age. Wherein I was not long unprovided. For who is he that casts his dazzled eye on the brightness of your redoubled rays of honour, or fixeth his serious thoughts on your Lordship's superintendency in public affairs (dilating itself not only from the north to the south, but spreading its influence as fare as the regal eye of great Britain doth command) and finds not in himself a tie to offer upon the altar of your Lordships meriting greatness an oblation of his respect? And who so fit to patronise these waters (not more wonderful in their effects, then happy that they are seated where your judicious government doth bless the country) than your Lordship, whose eminency in those parts, doth of right challenge the appropriation of what rariety soever the lists of the North doth impale? Be pleased therefore (in all accomplishments most noble Lord) to admit of these waters (which even as they neighbour to your spacious revenues claim an interest in your safeguard) submitting to your honours shielding protection, and favorablely to accept of the tender of his most humble service, who would willingly improve his best abilleties actually to be honoured with the title of Your Lordship's most humble servant, Mich. Stanhope. To the Reader. IT is plain, I have not the least intent to gull thee in magnefying the Northern Spa, nor yet to tyrannize over thee, by confining, and terminating thy belief within the circle of my bare relation, by a general avernment of what I writ; for in nomination the parties who have received benefit by the water, I open unto thee a large field for thy satisfaction. If it doth appear to thee (by conferring with any of them) that I have erred in some circumstances, stumble not at it. So long as I retain the substance, it matters not for the shadow. Nor think it strange that I omit others who have made use of the water, since it proceeds not out of ignorance of what hath past, but out of a tender regard I have not to burden thy patience: supposing that the culling forth of the most remarkable instances, would be as satisfactory to the judicious, as many heaps of examples. My purpose aimeth rather at a compendious realty of things, than multiplicity of stories. Most of the parties I know, and have had conference with them: the rest I have received from such authentical testimony that I doubt not but their information, is of sufficient validity to beget an undoubted confidence of their truths. If any of those mentioned in the following discourse (out of a nice scrupulocitie) think themselves disparaged by particularising their names, I am sorry that they should be so ignorantly curious since former times have afforded many precedents (written by way of Council, such as are those of Fernelius, Crato, and many others) wherein divers of eminent quality (besides their names) have their diseases anotamised, without the least conceived jealousy of their reputations. They ought rather to bless God, who hath in mercy vouchsafed them such easy means of their recovery, and glad themselves, that others by their example may be encouraged to have have recourse to the water for their relief. It may be, it is expected that I should satisfy the learned in one particular, namely, what assurance I can give that this our Spa doth partake with Vitriol, and Iron, which once confirmed, there will necessarily follow an apparent probability of its ample performance of all and more than shall fall within the compass of the following relations. This I foreseeing necessarily premising the conclusion, I desire that they would please to take for proof of the infallibility of Vitriol the taste of the water, which is very acide, and rough upon the palate, in plainer English, ynkish, and so like to Vitriol or Copperes (called anciently Attramentum sutorium) that there is little or no difference betwixt the taste of the water and the substance of Vitriol touched with the tongue; or a drop of the oil thereof mixed with a little water. Besides, take a glass of the water (which in itself is translucid and very clear, equaling the choicest spring) let the quantity be a pint or thereabout, put to it so much Gall in powder as will cover our common farthing, stir it never so little, and the water receiveth a perfect Claret dye. Or take a green Oak stick, bruise it at the end, and with it stir the like quantity of water, and within a small space it is turned into a pure Saphir blew, or (standing a while with the stick in it) to a Violet colour, both which hath been often tried. As for iron we account it a demonstrative note, the discollering of the earth and stones where the current of the spring runs: for it makes the channel red, which proceeds (as may be supposed) from Rubrique, otherwise called matter ferri. And the better to confirm that the water is no stranger to iron, it is very well known that the whole soil where this water riseth is full of iron stone, the plenty whereof hath been such, that the working of iron stone hath been a means to exhaust a world of wood growing in that part, there being yet to see the remainder of a great iron work within half a mile of the spring. Nor is the iron stone so concealed but by digging in most places it is easily found, much of it appearing in broken banks, and in the surface of the earth. I might boldly add hereunto (for further proof) the discollering of the stools of such as drink the water, giving them a blacn or deep green die, a common observed note in iron waters, as also the operation of the water in all manner of obstructions, wherein (who knows not) that iron doth claim an unparaleled excellency, but the ensuing discourse will make this good. Other notes an exact minerallist would easily produce, to whose discussing and disquisition I willingly leave matters of this nature, they being improper for the sphere, both of my capacity and profession. How it comes to pass that these waters are thus virtual, the learned can easily make appear; for the minerals that intermix with them once granted, from their natures will arise abundant satisfaction to all that are rational of their excellent use. As shortly thus. Sulphur (say they that writ of it) attracts, resolves, mollefieth, discusseth, cools and dries. Salt (whereof our Sulphur spring contains a great proportion) is astringent, detergent, purging, dispersing, attenuating, preserving from putrefaction. Iron saith (our learned Dr jordan) hath an opening or deopilating quality, and an astringent also. Vitriol (according to Diascorides) doth heat and bind. It hath an exceeding subtlety of parts saith Tho. jordanus, and is of a penetrative quality. From their abstessive and incisive qualities, it is noted that these waters do loosen and scatter viscuous and clammy matter, they attenuate the gross, and after by their penetrative quality, the Liver, Spleen, the meseraique veins, reines, and other parts are deopilated, and by this means freed from such diseases as proceed from obstruction. Dr Turner in his discourse of Baths and mineral waters saith, that waters partaking of iron and Brimstone, cool and dry, that they are proper for all sores of the Kidneys and Bladder, they both prevent and cure the strangury, Dry up rumes, are good for them that are short wound or stopped in the breast, that spit blood, they cure the green sickness, are very fit for cold phlegmatic men that would gladly have children and have none; and so for women whose default doth proceed from too much moistness of the matrixe, they are good by drink or glister against worms, and fit to allay the pains in the small guts. He saith also that where iron beareth the chief rule (as it doth in our Spa) such waters are excellent for all manner of itch; hardness of the milt, diseases of the joints, stiffness of the sinews, cramps proceeding of moistness, numbness or sleepiness in any part, dizziness of the head, the flux, weak Kidneys, pissing of blood, heat of urine, the oft, too much, and unwilling making of water, gnawing, and pains in the belly. Waters (saith Mounsieur Pigray in the observations of the Germane Spa) whereunto ours are little (I am but too modest) inferior, partaking of iron and vitriol; revive the spirits, provoke appetite, facilitate digestion, free from all manner of obstructions; they oppose wonderfully the generatton of the stone, and hinder the knitting of the gravel with the glutinous raw, and vescuous humour. The Hermetically learned (saith Hermannius Wolfus in his tractate de viribus, & usu aquarum in Agro Cassellano) note that Vitroline waters have a faculty of mundefying and purging all the parts of the body, corroborating the brain, curing the Epilepsy, exciting the appetite, killing all sorts of worms, opposing the Palsy, Dropsy, jaundice, breeding of the stone, suffocation of the matrix, all inward oppilations, prevent the gout, with many other excellent qualities as may appear in that his discourse in the third chapter. Which faculties joined with the other minerals, our waters partaking with them all, how useful these these waters may be, I leave to the consideration of those who are able to deduce particular instances from assured general grounds. With these authors agree many learned ones, whose opinions I spare to transcribe, being very unwilling to embark; myself in the discourse of these mysteries, whereby I may be thought saucily to snatch the pen out of the Doctor's hand, to whom I leave thee for further satisfaction, the former authorities being sufficient to grace our waters and confirm their virtue. They who with some violence put me upon this task of recommending to the general notice this water, with its consiing springs, might (if they had pleased) have undertaken it with a more plaucible entertainment: but their profession tending to prescribe to those who are to use the water (I suppose) caused them to forbear their pains, lest a relation from them might seem to reflect at their particular interest▪ wherein I am altogether free. Omitting therefore all further apologies, (for I fear the gates are grown too great for the City) rather then the public should not be benefited, I have adventured bluntly to step upon the stage. Wherein if I may but be so happy, as by my weak (though willing) pen to invite any to the water for their good, and that I may receive of thee (that which an honest intention may challenge) the Plaudite of a favourablr acceptance, I shall think my small pains largely recompensed, and shall wish thee all success in the use of these waters, and thy being partaker of that water, whereof whosoever drinks shall never after be a thirst. M. S. A Catalogue of such persons as have received benefit or cure by Mineral waters of Knaresborow in Yorkshire. Of the Stone M rs. Rolfe of Hadley in ihe County of Suffolk, pag. 6. Henry Curra of Whardale of 50. years. p. 6. Henry Rowley of Linton, aged 60. years, p. 7. M rs. May of York, very old, p. 8. William Shan of Medley, p. 13. Of Ulcers in Kidneys M rs. Barker of Door, p. 7. M rs. Ellis of Beaverly, cured of the like, Of Mallencholly. Mr. Sacheveril of Darbishire, p. 8. M rs. Air of Rampton, p. 9 Of shortness of Breath. One Wallis, aged 50. years, p. 14. The Countess of Buchingham, p. 14. Of weakness in the Limbs. M Foules an Advocate of Scotland p. 11. The Lady Vavisour p. 13. Of Swelling Maude Bog, aged 50. years. p. 18. A poor man of the like, p. 18. A poor woman of the like in her breast, p. 19 Of several other infirmities. William Tompson of the Hectic Fever, p. 10. Mr. Rauden of a strange sort of worms, p. 12. The Lady Hoyle, a strange cure, p. 15. A poor Boy of the Falling-sickness, p. 16. One Smith a Shoemaker of the Scurvy, p. 19 A Minister of a violent Flixe, with many others▪ A RELATION OF CERTAIN PARTICULAR CURES DONE BY Virtue of Mineral waters near Knaresborow in the west-riding of the County of Yorkshire BEFORE entrance be made into the ensuing narrations, it will not be amiss for the satisfaction of such who are mere strangers to the knowledge of these waters, to let them know, that it is now full six years since notice hath been given to the world by a book called Spadacrene or the English Spa (written by Doctor Deane a learned Physician of the City of York) of certain mineral waters seated in the Forest of Knaresborow, in the west riding of Yorkshire. Since which time diverse have repaired to them from remote places (according to their several necessities to experiment them, invited by the Doctors promised probabilities of their useful operations. What hath been the event and success, I have undertaken to present to the public view, beginning first with a short Epitome of the waters descriptions which I know cannot but be expected. Of diverse Springs that (as it were) press which should be first seen, within a small distance one of another (some whereof being of the same nature, differing only Secundum magis et minus, others varying in their composures dispensed and ordered by the careful and unimitable hand of provident nature) there are two most remarqueable, which beyond expectation have advanced themselves by their admirable faculties. The one is now called the Spa, but formerly known by the name of the Tuit well, deriving its virtue principally from iron and vittriall. This hath been long known, and of late hath been much frequented, blessing many that have made use of it with extraordinary good effects. It is distant from Knaresborow (being a place very apt to accommodate strangers plentifully both for diet and lodging) about a mile and a half. Though the soil where this Spring riseth doth afford diverse of the like nature, yet till of late there hath not any been so industrious as to search which is it that may justly challenge the precedence. This last Summer 1631. it was my hap to discover a new Spring distancing itself about a quarter of a mile from the other, which after it had been trenched, and opened, did give satisfaction to all (that were not partial) that it deserves a better degree of estimation than the other. I would be loath to disparage the old spring, yet I must take leave to presume that this late found Spring doth exceed the other in these following particulars, which whether they give lustre to it by way of excellency or no, I submit to the judgement of the learned. First for the Situation, it is placed in the descent of a great hill, the ground round about it being very firm, whereby it giveth advantage of fair dry walks, wherein the other is very defective, for that rising in a flat, the ground near unto it is boggye, to the prejudice of the water, confining the company that resort to it within too narrow a compass. Secondly, in the trial with the Gall, the colour of the new Spring changeth more hastily, and the water admits of a deeper die than the other. Thirdly, diverse who have tried this water voluntarily affirm that they can with more ease, and with less nauciousnesse to the stomach, drink 20. glasses of it, then 14 of the other, which if I mistake not) shows a great measure of repleatnesse of Spirits. Fourthly, being carried as fare as the City of York, it retaineth as full and as brisk a taste there, as the other doth at the Spring head, and tried so fare off with the Gall, it looks with a bold ruddy face upon the beholder: whereas the other abates much of its native taste being brought to the City, and looks but with a pale shamfaced blush, having received the admixture of the powder of the Gall. So that there is no doubt but this water may be transported to very good use, supposing the bottells to be very well stopped, which is a caution to be necessarily observed by all those that will send for the water, whereby the way I would wish such as have the water brought to them, to make use rather of glass, then of stone bottles, but as for wooden ones (which I have seen filled with the water) in regard of the poorness of that substance, it is but lost labour to use them, the life of the water consisting chiefly in the spirits, which are of such a nimble agile nature, that they are very apt to transpire, and scorn to be imprisoned in wooden walls. Lastly it is most apparent that this late found spring hath an admixture of Brimstone, besides the iron and vitrial, which I take to be an aditament of worth and nobleness, for the more variety of mineral (say the best observers of these waters) the more proper for diversity of distempers: & that sulphur springs are profitable in the infirmities of the Lungs, there is no doubt to be made, having also a healing quality, and therefore fitly appliable to any inward ulcerated part by which the water shall pass. This spring upon examination (proving in all points desirable) excellent, was this last summer set with stone, where it now stands upon its trial, and doth boldly challenge any whatsoever of the same nature. Neighbouring to this, there are three other differing springs not a mile distant one from the other, wherein Sulphur (not in its substance but vapour) doth predominate. One of them hath been long known by the name of the stinking well (for though the water be very clear, yet it is most true that it hath (scarce) a sufferable sent, whereby it hath been found by them that sought it not. It is actually cold, and besides its sulphurous quality (which is in a very high de, gree) it is exceeding salt, so that a pottle of it being evaporated, there will be found above half an ounce of perfect salt remaining. There is another not yielding at all to this in its sulpheriousnesse, but it is not perceivably salt at all. A third that is both sulphurous, and salt, but in a more remiss degree. The first of these three is only in request, and hath acted its part with great approument, the other two are neglected, though I am persuaded they may be found (for some bodies) more apt and proper than the former, were they judiciously examined. The Spa springs though they usually challenge (as doth the Spa in Germany, which is the reason we give them the same name) a singularity in easing and curing (such as are curable of the stone, and gravel, as also in opening the obstructions of the Spleen, and allaying all Melancholy effects and passions, yet it will appear by the subsequent discourse and relations, that this kind of water hath other rare and secret influences and operations, which hath procured no small wonder in those who have observed the effects! The particular instances whereof (without any longer suspending thy expectation, I now intent to enter upon, beginning first with the cure and alleviation of the stone and other distempers incident to the Kidneys and Reins. In the year 1626. M rs. Rolf of Hadley in the County of Suffolk, having occasion to give a visit to some of her near friends in Yorkshire, within a few weeks of her stay there, she found herself suddenly surprised with extraordinary sharp fits, which by there symptoms did manifestly appear to be the stone. Hereupon she applied herself to the Physicians advise, but finding little or no ease by their prescriptions (though probable ones) she was persuaded to try the new water at Knaresborow, where she had not continued above a fortnight, but she voided many stones, to the number of a hundred, bigger and less, whereby she was quit of all her pain, and hath ever since continued in health, free from all manner of annoyance in that kind. Henry Curra of Whardale in the western parts of Yorkshire, servant to Sr. Peter Middleton, about the age of 50. years, having suffered much pain for diverse years, his fits of the stone being so violent that he was not able to ride on horseback, or to lie in his bed an hour together without rising, nothing that he could take affording him any ease, he went at last to the Spa spring, where having drunk the water about a month, he voided diverse stones, some whereof he hath to show being bigger than a great Pea. He returned home eased of all his pain, he recovered his strength, and is now well able to ride about his occasions without any disturbance, nor hath he ever since (being now 3. years) had any fits worthy of complaint. Henry Rowley of Linton, near Weatherby in Yorkshire, of the age of 60. years, much perplexed a long time with the stopping of his water, by his repair to the Spa voided much gravel, and from that time was no more troubled so long as he lived. M rs. Barker of Door in Darbeshire about the age of 34. years, had a dangerous ulcer in her Kidney, besides a very obstructed body, wherewith she was brought so low, that she was not able to go without the support of one or two; her stomach had lost its appetite, not able through weakness to digest any meat, no nor the most apt broths that could be made, so that she was forced to sustain nature by returning to her infant pap. In this weak and desperate condition (having formerly not spared to use all the helps that could be devised by the Physician) she was gently brought to the Spa, not expecting (as she told me herself) to be recovered, only she thought it not fit to be wanting to any means that might be propounded. It pleased God to give such a blessing in the use of the water (which she daily drunk as well as she was able) that within a few days there came from her an incredible deal of putrid matter, which gave her such ease, that by degrees she gathered strength, her inward parts were deopilated, her stomach restored, and within the compass of 5. weeks she was (to the wonder of all that had taken notice of her) reduced to a most apparent state of health and ability of body. I seeing her this summer, 1631. at the Spa, (for it was the foregoing year she had received her cure, and this year came only to the water to confirm herself) could not but admire to behold so fresh a look, and so well liking a body, considering the report of her former exceeding weakness. I will not say it were time lost, but it might be better spent then to multiply all the known examples in this kind, the foregoing ones being of sufficient proof to make good the waters efficatious use in the infirmity of the stone. Not that I am to seek for more, for I might (but that I willingly avoid superfluous tediousness) add to the other. M rs. Ellis wife to Mr. Ellis Minister at Beaverly, who received a wondrous cure in the like ulcerated part. M rs. May a Citizen's wife of York, who after many years trouble (being of great age) was absolutely freed from her long continued fits of the stone with divers others whom I purposely omit (nothing being more ordinary) that others may come into play (though of a differing kind, yet) of remarkable note. For Melancholy and Splenetique effects, there are few or none (that I have ever yet heard of) who have repaired to this Spa water, but have found extraordinary ease, and a great abatement of those disturbances which are the ordinary unwelcome attendants of that distemper. Amongst others, Mr. Sacheveril of Darbishire (hearing of this Spa water) came to York to advise with Dr. Deane, who after he had fitly prepared his body (a rule grossly omitted by many) sent him Knaresborow to drink of the water, being in the year, 1630. to his great relief. For whereas he had been exceedingly long time perplexed with many fearful passions, and upon sleight occasions, apt to entertain horrid and astonishing imaginations; the ordinary companions of that disease called Hypochondriaca passio) he returned to York to give Dr. Deane thanks for his sending him to the water, professing his spirits to be much cheered, his fancy cleared from all cloudy and misty conceits, which his very look and inspecttion did witness, and so he returned home continuing ever since in a constant tenor of a quiet and uninterrupted condition. M rs. Air wife to Mr. Anthony Air of Rampton, in Nottinghamshire, a gentlewoman of much worth and esteem for her approved virtue, and all other requisites that give lustre to her sex, had (with the expense of much money) tried what could be done in the taming and qualifying of that same dull melancholy humour, herself not unseen (as in many rare secrets so) in curious receipts of that kind, at length grew weary in trying conclusions, receiving little or no benefit by any. She was drawn at last by report of the Yorkshire Spa, to try the effects of it, which was in the year 1629. where she found more comfort and ease by one months use of the water, than she could ever receive by all the best advise her money could purchase. Others I have known affected or rather afflicted in this kind, who have acknowledged to have received great benefit by this water, whose names and stories I spare the forenamed being sufficient instances of the powerful effect of this water in moderating this same Ludibrium Medicorum, the melancholy humour. I shall now present a missellanie of other cures, or rather wonders, worthy the serious consideration of the learned, and the admiration of all. Mr. William Tompson Postmaster of Weatherby in Yorkshire, had continued desperately sick of a hectic fever 28. weeks, living then in Cambridgeshire. He had used the advice of the best Physicians in those parts, and was at last given over as a man past hope, his weakness being such that he went not to the stool in all that time, but by the help of a suppository, or the like means. In this poor estate (hearing of this water) he adventureth in the depth of winter (a most unseasonable time by the consent of all those who writ of the use of these kind of waters) to experiment them, and so with some difficulty he was brought to Weatherby being distant from Knaresborow four miles. Having rested a day or two, he began to drink of the water, which had such good effect in him, that without any pain at all he had the benefit (the first day) of nature, and within a few days he found a strange alteration in his body, his stomach was quickened, and his spirits strangely revived. He continued the drinking of the water 14. days, till at length he was not sensesible of any defect that might cause him to make any longer use of it. To be short, within a small time (through God's blessings) merely by this water he was restored to be a perfect man, and so continueth. This was in the year 1628. Mr. Foules a gentleman of Scotland, and advocate of Edenborow, about the age of 57 years, through a weakness of all his limbs proceeding (as may be supposed) from a relaxation of the sinews, was not able (but with much trembling) to lift his hand to his mouth, or to get on, or off his horse but with much help, he came to Knaresbow in the year 1627. where having stayed about a month, drinking every morning of the Spa spring, and making use of the Sulphur water by way of bath at his lodging, before he departed he was able to perform all fit offices about himself, without the aid of any, and hath continued in good state of body ever since. Mr. Rauden of Rauden in Yorkshire, had been many years soar vexed with terrible pangs, and gripings in his body, so that through the continual extremity of his distemper, his flesh was decayed, his appetite lost, and his sleep very short and unquet. He had used the advice of some of the best Physicians of the Kingdom, but finding little or no ease, he came to try what the Spa water would do, being then but newly devulged. Not many days after he had drunk of the water, he avoided two great chains of worms, being either of them above a yard long, which though they seemed diverse worms linked together, by the several motions in many parts at once (which had they been, would have amounted to thousands) yet were but one, of which the learned report that kind of worm to be of a strange and scarce credible length. About 4. days after he voided 4. other single worms, great and very long, but dead; After which he voided no more, but was freed from all manner of pain, and by degrees and steps ascended again to his former best health, and hath continued a sound man ever since. The confident knowledge hereof invited a Gentleman (a neighbour of his) called Rockley, having continued long a very infirm man, and not able by any means to understand the cause of his weakness, to try the water, where after he had stayed a few days, there came from him 14. worms or rather Monstra, as some will term them, every one about an intch long and alive. Their heads were black, and their tails tipped with black, all of them having many feet. About 6. days after he voided 4. more of the like form alive: Most of them he kept alive in a box a few days which were seen of many with no little wonderment. Since which time he hath recovered strength, and liveth now in very good health. The Lady Vavisour (wife to Sr. Thomas Vavisour Baronet of Yorkshire) had lost in a manner the use of all her limbs, through what distemper I know not, but she was brought to such a degree of weakness, that childlike she was rocked in a cradle: There was no means unassaied which might reinable her, but all in vain. In this estate she was brought to the Spa water, by the use whereof (by God's mercy) she was restored to strength and health. One William Shan of Medley in Yorkshire, being much troubled with the stopping of his water, which caused intolerable pain, in a desperate mood in one of his fits (being a man of extraordinary courage) caused an instrument of iron to be made by an ordinary Smith, about the bigness and length of a pack-needle. This (not any other daring to do it) he (boldly rather than wisely) thrust up into his yard, and pulling it forth violently, he opened the passage, so that a great quantity of water with an intermixture of blood issued forth, by reason of a dangerous wound made by the instrument, which after proving ulcerous, could by no means be healed. He (as his last refuge) repaired to the Spa water, where within a few days he received not only cure of his former stoppage of water, but was perfectly cured of his ulcer. One Walls of Copeland in the county of Northumberland, about the age of 50. years, being of an extraordinary corpulency of body, his belly especially of a greatness. For divers years, he had not been able to go the space of an hundred yards (especially if it were an ascent) without resting himself, his breath failing him upon the least extraordinary motion. By the drinking of the Spa water he was brought to that pass within three weeks, that his belly did fall to an ordinary size, he was able to go from the Town of Knaresborow to the Spring (which is a mile and an half, part of it being a great ascent) without any desire of ease, and hath continued ever since a man as able to foot it as most of his age. The like effect the late Right Honourable Countess of Buckingham found, who this last Summer 1631. vouchsafed to honour the Northern Spa with her presence. Her infirmity (I have it from her own mouth) was a shortness of breath, not being able to get up an ordinary pair of stairs but with much difficulty of breathing, and resting once at the least. There is none will question but her ample fortune was able to command the choicest helps of physic: Which failing, she had recourse to Wellingborow, but even that water, (so much famed) was not able to perform any thing worth her stay. At last she was advised by a learned Artist (who was no stranger to this our Spa) to make trial of our water. Her honour was pleased to tell me (having drunk orderly of the water about ten days) that she found the whole frame of her body reduced to a very good temper, and for that particular, which occasioned her coming to the water, she did profess seriously, that she was well able to mount two pair of stairs without either support, or the least desire of respite. The time of the year was somewhat too fare spent at her coming to the water (for it was the middle of August) so that the coldness of the air, and frequent showers, forced her departure before the water could finish its work, which was no small prejudice to her after being. M rs. Fareweather of the City of York, dwelling in Micklegate had been long troubled with a dizziness in her head (call it the vertigo or what you please) so that if she did but stoop to the ground (looking downwards) she was ready to fall; by the use of the Spa water for the space of a month was absolutely freed from this her distemper. The Lady Hoyle wife to the new Lord Mayor of the City of York, after she had been the mother of four children, did fall into a strange infirmity. Her face (for the most part every ten or eleven weeks after she had conceived) did swell and grow very red, many knobs arising in divers parts of her face. The swelling sometimes was such that it almost deprived her (for the time) of her sight: during the continuance of which trouble she miscarried of three or four children together. It must be supposed one of her ability (being happy also by enjoying a tender, loving husband) could want no means that part could afford, but no proof or good success was found. She was at last advised to repair to the Spa, where she stayed about 3. weeks, finding apparent signs of her body's alteration. Within two months of her return home, it pleased God she conceived, continuing in a constant state of health to the time of her delivery. She hath since then been blessed with divers children, not having the least touch of her former distemper. A poor boy about the age of 13. years, had often strange fits like those of the Epilepsy or falling sickness, yet somewhat differing from the ordinary fits of that disease, neither foaming at the mouth, nor showing any distortions of countenance. He would lie (as if he had been dead) the space of a quarter of an hour without the least motion. In this case he had continued a year and more, and did usually fall two or three times a day. He was brought to drink of the Spa water, and within ten days did so alter, that he did not fall above once in six days space. He returned home in hope of recovery, yet too soon if my advice might have taken place; but the party that brought him thither, told me he was not able to stay in regard of the charge. M rs. Sadler daughter to that same reverend sage of the Law, Sr. Edward Cook (let her pardon me that I close the relations of the Spa with her name, who for her worth and excellent parts deserved to be ranked and equalled with the best of her sex) came to the Spa in the year 1630. Her distemper (as near as I can inform my self) was a long continued fixed pain in her head. It is very probable that she received benefit by the waters use, which encouraged her to repair to the water again the last year 1631. And pity it were she should not find good success, she shown herself so rare a pattern of patience, in attending the issue of 6. week's stay, not any one that I have observed, proceeding in the whole course in drinking of the water, with such constant observation of all those rules which are requisite to be observed by those who expect benefit by the water. And now having finished what I think fit to instance concerning this our Spa water, I will add a few experiments of the Sulphur spring. Maud Bog (for by that name she is commonly known) a woman of an ordinary condition, dwelling in the City of York; about the age of 50. years, had a swelling about her Ankle, which had continued long. The place was for the most part very red, and hard, whereunto was applied divers means by the Surgeons to bring it to a head, but nothing availed. Her pain did daily increase, the part was grown monsterously great, whereby she began to lose the use of her lime. She was at length advised to go to the Sulphur spring near Knaresborow, whether with much ado she was brought on horseback. The next day after her coming she drunk liberally of the water, which purged her in a violent manner, and at night she bathed her leg in the water at her lodging. This course she continued for three days, during which time the swelling abated very much, and she was able the fourth day to tread on the ground so boldly and firmly, that without expecting any further operation of the water, she returned to the City of York on foot, as if she scorned any other help, and within a week she was so perfectly cured, that divers who had seen her swollen leg, did admire to see her troth up and down the City, as if she had never ailed any thing. This was in the the year 1627. This Summer being 1631. I spoke with her at York from whom I had her story, Dr. Deane and divers others in York taking special notice of it. In the year 1629. there came a poor man to make use of the Sulphur spring, whose name and abode I have not had the opportunity to learn. He had a great swelling in his knee which had continued long. The place was exceeding hard to feel to, & grown over with hair, nor could the force of any medicine make it to yield to any abatement or suppuration. He drunk of the water daily, which purged him, and bathed his leg often in it: within less than a fortnight the part did sensiblely soften, and soon after did break, whence issued a great number of small worms, to the amazement of divers. Freed from these, he was much refreshed, and within a few days returned to his home by all appearance a sound man. Sr F. F. A noble Knight (who lived then near Knaresborow) took (as there was good cause) special notice of this strange cure, whose unblemished reputation is a sufficient warrant to satisfy me in the publishing of it. One Benson who dwelleth near the spring, assured me a poor woman had received the like cure in one of her breasts, whereof he was a witness. There is nothing more familiar then for poor people to repair to this spring, most of them (that have the patience to stay) receiving cure of old sores, and ulcerated parts. What inward diseases this water doth properly respect, hath not yet (which is great pity) been judiciously examined: but that it may be usefully applied, this one following instance may fully satisfy. One Smith a Shoemaker dwelling in the City of York, was extremely overgrown with the Scurvy, so that he was in some danger of his life, usual medicines nothing availing. He was at length advised by a learned Scholar in the City (by profession a Divine, Mr G. yet versed of late in physical notions) to send for the Sulphur spring water to his house, which he not very willingly did, thinking it a hard task to drink water in the cold of winter. His ordinary draught was half a pint in the morning, which had such good success in him, that within less than a month he was by this and other means quit of his disease. The like effect a good old man in the City experimented to his great relief. Mr A. P. Lo here two springs of admirable operations! And if an exact Sumetritian by the proportion of Hercules his foot be able to collect the whole fabric of his body, why may not the learned (whose serious thoughts are bend upon the theory of nature's secrets) from these examples deduce excellent conclusions of large and ample use. I had thought to shut up this discourse but that I am loath to smother any thing that may tend to the public good. Those who have observed the wonders of this our happy Isle, have taken notice of a Spring seated underneath the Castle of Knaresborow, commonly called the dropping Well, famous for the turning whatsoever is cast into it or casually falls in (as Moss, leaves, sticks, and the like) into stone: whereupon it is that this Spring is visited of many by way of admiration. But time hath of late discovered a physical use of this water, namely, that it is an infallible cure for a flux. This year 1631. it was my chance to be a witness of this particular. A Minister of Yorkshire one Greatheed, came to Knaresborow to give his attendance on a noble Gentlewoman, whose infirmity did crave the aid of the Spa water. He (not intending to drink of the water seriously) thought he might safely now and then (as many do for companies sake) take a few draughts of the Spa water within a week's stay (by what accident I know not) he was overtaken with a violent flux, which continued three days in such a degree of excess, that there was just cause to fear. At that time there was happily in the house a Physician of good note, one Dr. Webbe (a Gentleman of extraordinary curious parts besides his exact knowledge in his profession, to whom these Northern waters are indebted for his careful examination of them, and his willingness to advance their dew fame) whose advice being craved (and time it was to advise, for the party was brought so weak, that he was stepped into a degree of convulsions) he (out of former experience in a noble Lady in the same case, who (all other means failing) had received present help by this dropping Well) presently caused him to drink a draught of the said water, which without dallying instantly stayed the flux, so that within a few days he became a strong man. These fore rehearsed truths considered, whether may not Knaresborow challenge any place in Europe for variety of useful and rare springs? If it be objected by any (for there is a snarling generation that have ever something to say (though to no great purpose) against any thing) that they have met with those who have been at these rare waters, and have found little or no benefit by them. I answer, was there ever yet any medicine heard or read of, of that unvalluable worth that was an assured Catholicon against all diseases? I but (say they) your waters have failed even in these particular instances which you have mentioned. I grant it, and yet no derogation from the waters efficatious use. A disease is curable at one time, which at another admits no possibility. Veniente occurrite morbo. Sero medicina paratur, etc. A young twig may easily be pulled up, but let it grow, and there will be much ado to make it wag. If it be replied that such as have repaired to the water, were but newly entered into their distempers, and yet returned no better than they came thither: without any long quarrelling about the matter, I say it is a wonder that divers who drink of the water return not worse. For how many (if they were well examined) prepare their bodies, which how gross an omission it is, let the learned judge? Besides how few are there who keep an ordinary diet? How many depart (in a chafe) from the water, because they have not found themselves in a week as sound as a Bell; when as (the world knows) their bodies have been cracked and crazy for many years? And yet these gallants (guilty perhaps of all these errors) complain of want of virtue in these waters, when the greatest want is in themselves being refractory and averse in observing a methodical course, without which the most elaborate and choice recepts that ever were, are liable to disparagements. But I have done squabbling with these humorists, and for the benefit of the more ingenious sort, I desire that (for their own sakes) they would (if necessity hale them to these waters, for they are no more to be played withal, than any other physic) take notice of these following cautions, which require a necessary observance of all. First, undertake not thyself to judge of thine own body, what correspondence the water may have with thy infirmity: but repair to the learned Physician, to whom it properly belongs to determine of thee. Secondly, being once resolved to use the water, fit thyself for it by taking a day or two before thou drink of it, some such apt preparative as best may suit with the quality and nature of thy distemper. For this purpose advise with an understanding Physician (especially one that is acquainted with the waters use) for he it is (and only he) that knoweth how to vary prescriptions, and to apply to every one that which is most proper. Thirdly, resolve during the time of thy drinking the water to keep an orderly diet in the quality of it, avoiding all meats of gross nourishment, and in the quantity let thy meals be spare but especially thy suppers. And if that at other times thou art indulgent to thy appetite, now do as Solomon adviseth in another case. Put thy knife to thy throat and restrain thy former liberty: which strictness would be observed (to very good purpose) a month after thy departure from the water, according to the opinion of the best observers. Fourthly, keep thyself (according to the season) in such a degree of temper, that neither immoderate heat nor coldness of the air offend thee, but of the latter there is the more fear, the morning's being often cold. The place and situation of these waters do a little too much expose all conditions of people that repair to them to the inconvenience of a cold piercing air, therefore it were to be wished that those of the more tender sort, whether of sex, education, or accidental weakness, would (during the time of their drinking the water) every morning when they go to the fountain be armed with an indifferent warm garment, which if it be not put off till the water have had its operation (which for the most part is four hours after the drinking, unless the day prove more than ordinary warm) were not amiss. For I am persuaded these same slashed carbonadoed suits so much in fashion, are no small prejudice to most that wear them. And yet how many are there both of years (though not of discretion in this) and of weak constitutions (but more weak judgements) who (rather than they will not be at the command of that same grand domineering Tyrant Mounsieur Deformite) care not how soon they leave the world rather than live out of the fashion, be it never so useless and monstrous. Fiftly, attempt not to drink these waters, but with a prepared patience to attend the issue of their operation, according to the usual time allotted for them, which ought to be a month at least. The precipitate and hasty parting from them is no small cause why many find not the benefit which they expect. In the close before thou leave the place, it is very convenient to take a gentle purge of the nature of thy preparative. Lastly, if in the use of the water it doth plainly appear to thee that it worketh effectually, cross not the course of it by an intermixture of any other physic, whose aid ought only to be craved when the water is wanting in its performance, or doth produce some extraordinary sumptomes, and then the learned hand of Art may be a great means to support and relieve the weakness of nature, or any other accidental inconvenience. Other concurring circumstances there are, not unworthythy observation in drinking the water which are learnedly and accurately set down in the Spadacrene, whereunto I refer thee for a full satisfaction both of the nature and use of the water. Let me only put thee in mind that the most proper time to use the water is from the middle of june to the end of August. I am not ignorant that late years have brought to light in divers parts of the Kingdom, waters of near alliance to this our Northern Spa: but by the best enquiry I can make, it is plain they must all veil bonnet to this of ours, for fullness of mineral and activety of spirits, be they what they will, whether those of Wellingborow, Tunbridge, Bristol, or any other. And that which makes this our water not patternable (besides its own worth) is the confluence and variety of Springs, that (by way of attendance) environ it. For I dare be bold to affirm that within the distance of two miles, I will show seven several Springs all of divers natures, apparently distinguishable either in taste, or smell. So that (I am persuaded) had these waters but the happiness to be honoured one Summer with the presence, and examination of some such learned Artist as Dr. jordin (who in his late exact discourse of mineral waters, and baths, shows he hath a suparlative capacity of diving into the bowels of the earth, and exposing to light those hidden mysteries that lie locked up in the bosom of that dark Element) not only this Kingdom, but most neighbouring Nations would troop unto them, having once received allowance by the divulging of his or the like judicious pen. Nor is this all that is wanting to these waters. There is a stain unthought of, which time I hope wash away, for it is a shame it hath so long continued. Those who neighbour nearest to these waters, are an indigenous poor people, not able to step out of the road of their laborious calling, being plain husbandmen and cottagers, and therefore it cannot be expected they should accommodate them in their many useful concernments wherein they are most grossly defective. What unseemly shifts have I seen many strangers of note put to for want of a convenient place of retirement? How is the company forced sometimes to leave the place for want of shelter to defend them from the gusts of many a cold morning, wherein though all do suffer, yet those that are weak (I assure myself) receive more prejudice by the piercing bleak air, than benefit by the water? For if in the smallest physical preparatives that are prescribed, we are fitly charged to beware of cold, or any impetuousness of the air, how much more in the frequent draughts of this water, which is apt (with some violence) now and then to open the body? And that which is strange, of many scores that meet in a morning and continue for the most part an hour together, there is scarce a seat provided for half a dozen to repose them. Is it not a shame that the Sulphur spring (whereof many of the best sort have occasion to drink) should lie open for the promiscuous use of all sorts, without any due order observed in the keeping of it, so that poor Lazer, impotent people, do daily environ it, whose putrid rags lie scattered up and down, and it is to be doubted whether they do not wash their sores, & cleanse their besmeared clouts (though unseen) where divers after dip their cups to drink. Not that I would have the poor debarred the use of the spring, (God forbidden that those should not be most especially cared for, who are least able to care for themselves) but I see no cause why the use may not be reduced to a better order. And if it be doubted that this spring will hardly be accommodated for all sorts (which I make no doubt but it may, being carefully guarded) I will undertake within a quarter of a mile to find one or two of the same equal worth which may be appropriated for the meaner sort. From this & the like abuse it is that divers justly complain, and wish that some one might be deputed by authority to manage these waters, and to provide all things necessary for their more fit use, conditionally that allowance might be made annually by all such as have recourse to them according to their qualities. But if wishes would serve the turn, this (with many more neglects) had found redress long since. That which I think worthy of complaint is, that of so many of note who have received benefit by these waters, nay some of them, who (under God) own their lives to them, there is not one that hath left behind any memorial of their gratitude worth the remembrance. Of ten Lepers, there was one that returned to give thanks, (which was the only fee that was expected for his cure) and he alone was stamped upon as worthy his recovery. Nahaman the Syrian by the dim light of nature could see that his restoring to health would deserve a large recompense, and therefore he came furnished with gifts of great worth, which he pressingly (though refused) tendered the Prophet. And I verily think that there are some now living, who could they have been assured (before their coming to these waters) of such a latitude of unexpected health as now they enjoy by them, they would have purchased it at half their estates. Shall after ages than take notice of so many as have been raised from their weary sick couches to perfect strength, and no sign of thankfulness remaining, but because they have been put to straits at their being at the waters, must others hereafter shift as they have done? A benefit (let it derive itself whence it will) doth ever (in an ingenious spirit) train after it a and innominate obligation of a grateful return, and implicitly challenge a proportionable retribution, according to the quality of the person, and benefit received. Let it never be said therefore (ye especially (whosoever ye are) whose estates raise you (like Saul) the shoulders and upwards above others) that ye are indebted to the Spa for your recoveries, and that ye left it as naked of all fit supplement as ye found it, but stir up one another to give a largess to make the place more apt for after times, both to invite strangers thither, and comfort those of the meaner sort with some fit accommodations, who are necessitated to use the water. Ye that have been at these waters know the natural rudeness of the place, how void it is of all provisions, and Christians (of all others) should remember, that they are not borne for themselves, but that they ought to cast an eye upon succeeding ages. But if ye will leave this work for others now your own turns are served, yet something (according to the old saying) hath some savour: Me thinks the neighbouring poor of the place (who are not a few) might taste of your bounty whom ye shall find the best treasurers and stewards of your liberality. Or look upon some poor desolate Parishes that border upon the Spa (which save the ordinary service scarce once in a year know what the comfortable refection of a teaching Minister meaneth) what a sort of starved souls there are for want of the word dispensed to them, and by supplying that defect, God shall be honoured, and a blessing will be the readier to attend the waters. Yet why do I strive to rouse and stimulate your beneficence, by prescribing to you ways of thankfulness? Where true charity is, it needs no prompting, but can find a thousand dry channels to moisten with its welcome streams. I hope this little blast I have made bold to give, will be sufficient either in you or some other (if the world be not drawn dry of generousness) to make your expressions break forth into a flame of bounty. To conclude (for my ambition to promote the common good, hath perhaps (as some may think) caused me to expatiate a little too fare) since it is undeniable by the preceding particulars, that these waters are worth the cherishing. Cease then who ere thou art, (whose snarling vain Will not permit thee, see thy Country's gain;) To stain these waters with thy blear-eyed look, Or misinterpret this truth-speaking Book. But if thy dreggy and distempered blood, So cloud thy brain thou canst not see what's good: Repair to these our waters, which can quell, Those misty vapours and all fogs dispel. Ye Chemists whose high-perching wits aspire, T' extract the quintessence of all by fire, Dream ye no more of what was never known: (But by suppose) that all effecting stone The gate to wealth, and what man's heart can think, Which makes your brains to sweat, your pens with ink To blur your papers, for ye do but leave Behind dark mists of words that do deceive. Here would ye spend a few of these lost days Ye now bestow, O with what worthy praise, Might ye endear your Country's good and find Matter well worth your labour, to unbind: By your extractions those same links and chains Of hidden secrets which as yet remains Untied, that their proportion duly known, Their use might be divulged to every one. And ye bold brazen scattered Empirics, Who purge men's purses with your cheating tricks: Leave to disport yourselves with your conceits, Of juggling powders that can work all feats. The learned know, and who best judge must grant, Y'are gross impostures, blind and ignorant, Come sit you down, by these our waters banks, Note well their rare effects, what several ranks Of starved bodies here receive their cure, Which would ye mark in time ye might procure: By your observing to direct and guide, Such as to long sad weakness have been tide. For here are wonders of no common strain, Diseases cured without or grief or pain. The shaking Palsy here gets steady limbs, The giddy Megrim and the brain that swims: The Ulcer of the Kidneys and the stone, (That is not fixed) all such as make their moan, Of perturbed fancy rising from the Spleen, The viscuous bowels that want making clean; Distemper of the Livers fiery heat, Weak indigestions both of drink and meat. Flixes, Cathars, obstructions in their kinds, Disturbing painful flutulent gross winds: Worms of all sorts, the Epilepse, the sick, Who plainly do appear they're Asthmatick. These and what not that Art could ever cure, Nature presents them with a water pure: Which fitly used in its due season can, Restore a dying to a living man. Had Galen met with waters such as these, Or that same grave well-versed Hypocrates, Or those Arabian sages, learned men, Races, Averro, or that Avicen: These with the rest were they alive to see, Our waters how they suit to each degree, Of age and sex, and with what ease they do, Effect their operation, they would woo, To be spectators of these rare events, Nature (unheard of) to the world presents. My pen's too dull, to blaze them I have done, 'Tis vain to prove there's brightness in the Sun. FINIS.