VERA EFFIGIES JOHANNIS WEEVER AETATIS SVAE 55. ANNO 1631. Lanchashire gave him breath, And Cambridge education. His studies are of Death. Of Heaven his meditation. Stipendium peccati Mors. Gratia Dei vita aeterna per Dm. N. I. Chr. Primus Adam de terra terrenus. Secundus Adam Dominus de Coelo Vt in Adamo omnes moriuntur. Ita in Christo omnes vivificabuntur. Hic iacet. Sunt nisi praemissi quos perijsse putas. Mors haec reparatio vitae est. ANCIENT FUNERAL MONUMENTS WITH IN THE united Monarchy of Great Britain, Ireland, and the Lands adjacent; with the dissolved Monasteries therein contained; their Founders, and what eminent persons have been in the same interred. As also the Death and burial of certain of the Blood Royal, the Nobility and Gentry of these Kingdoms entombed in foreign Nations with other matters mentioned in the ensuing Title. Composed by the Travels and Study of john Weever. Spe labour levis. London Printed by Tho: HARPER. M.DC.XXXI. And are to be sold in Little Britain by Laurence Sadler at the sign of the Golden Lion. T. Cecil sculp. ANCIENT FUNERAL MONUMENTS WITHIN THE UNITED MONARCHY OF GREAT Britain, Ireland, and the Islands adjacent, with the dissolved Monasteries therein contained: their Founders, and what eminent Persons have been in the same interred. AS ALSO THE DEATH AND BURIAL OF CERTAIN OF THE Blood Royal; the Nobility and Gentry of these Kingdoms entombed in foreign Nations. A work reviving the dead memory of the Royal Progeny, the Nobility, Gentry, and Commonalty, of these his Majesty's Dominions. Intermixed and illustrated with variety of Historical observations, annotations, and brief notes, extracted out of approved Authors, infallible Records, Lieger Books, Charters, Rolls, old Manuscripts, and the Collections of judicious Antiquaries. Whereunto is prefixed a Discourse of Funeral Monuments. Of the Foundation and fall of Religious Houses. Of Religious Orders. Of the Ecclesiastical estate of England. And of other occurrences touched upon by the way, in the whole passage of these intended labours. Composed by the Study and Travels of JOHN WEEVER. Spe labour levis. LONDON, Printed by THOMAS HARPER. 1631. And are to be sold by Laurence Sadler at the sign of the Golden Lion in little Britain. TO THE SACRED AND IMPERIAL MAJESTY OF OUR DREAD SOVEREIGN, THE MOST MAGNIFICENT, ILLUSTRIOUS, AND PVISSANT MONARCH, CHARLES: BY THE DIVINE PROVIDENCE, OF GREAT BRITAIN, FRANCE, IRELAND, AND MANY LANDS, KING. THE MOST POWERFUL PROTECTOR OF THE FAITH: THE MOST ROYAL PATRON, PRESERVER, AND FOSTERER OF THE UNDOUBTED RELIGION OF JESUS CHRIST. THE PATTERN OF TRUE PIETY, AND JUSTICE, AND THE PRECEDENT OF ALL PRINCELY VERTVES. HIS HIGHNESS MOST LOWLY, AND MOST LOYAL SUBJECT JOHN WEEVER, IN ALL HUMILITY, CONSECRATETH THESE HIS LABOURS: THOUGH far UNWORTHY THE VIEW OF SO RESPLENDENT A GREATNESS. THE AUTHOR TO THE READER. Having seen (judicious Reader how carefully in other Kingdoms, the Monuments of the dead are preserved, and their Inscriptions or Epitaphs registered in their Church-Bookes; and having read the Epitaphs of Italy, France, Germany, and other Nations, collected and put in print by the pains of Schraderus, Chytraeus, Swertius, and other foreign Writers. And also knowing withal how barbarously within these his Majesty's Dominions, they are (to the shame of our time) broken down, and utterly almost all ruinated, their brazen Inscriptions erazed, torn away, and pilfered, by which inhuman, deformidable act, the honourable memory of many virtuous and noble persons deceased, is extinguished, and the true understanding of diverse Families in these Realms (who have descended of these worthy persons aforesaid) is so darkened, as the true course of their inheritance is thereby partly interrupted: grieving at this unsufferable injury offered as well to the living, as the dead, out of the respect I bore to venerable Antiquity, and the due regard to continue the remembrance of the defunct to future posterity; I determined with myself to collect such memorial of the deceased, as were remaining as yet undefaced; as also to revive the memories of eminent worthy persons entombed or interred, either in Parish, or in Abbey Churches▪ howsoever some of their Sepulchers are at this day no where to be discerned; neither their bones and ashy remains in any place to be gathered. Whereupon with painful expenses (which might have been well spared perhaps you will say) I travailed over the most parts of all England, and some part of Scotland; I collected the Funeral Inscriptions of all the Cathedral Churches of the one, and in some of the other, and ever by the way gathered such as I found in Parochial Churches▪ I likewise took view of many ancient Monuments not inscribed, demanding of the Church officers, or others the inhabitants, for whom such and such Tombs or Sepulchers were made and erected, which was told me according to that truth which was delivered unto them by tradition: after all this scrutiny, finding so few, or none at all in many Churches (time, the malignity of wicked people, and our English profane tenacity, having quite taken them away for lucre sake) I was altogether discouraged to proceed any further in this my laborious and expenseful enterprise; until I came casually into the acquaintance of my dear deceased friend, Augustine Vincent, Esquire, Windsor Herald, & keeper of the Records in the Tower, who persuaded me to go forward as I had begun, and withal gave me many Church-Collections, with diverse memorable Notes, and Copies of Records, gathered by himself and others; and by his means I had free access to the Herald's Office, to write out such antiquities as I could there find for my purpose. But above all, I am most bound to love the foresaid Vincents' memory, for that he made me known to that honourable Gentleman Sir Robert Cotton, Knight and Baronet; who forthwith apprehending the scope and drift of this my Argument (his generous disposition being always ready to afford his best furtherance to other men's industrious labours) gave me his able directions, and withal, lent me out of his inestimable Library, such Books and Manuscripts as were most fitting for my use. But alas, this worthy repairer of eating-times ruins, this Philadelphus, in preserving old Monuments, and ancient Records: this Magazine, this Treasury, this Storehouse of Antiquities, Sir Robert Cotton, is now lately deceased, whose excellent good parts are well conceived in a Funeral Elegy which hath happily come into my hands, and which I think fitting here to be inserted. Viro clarissimo Roberto Cottono, ab antiqua Regum prosapia oriundo, Epicedium. Qualis Homerus erat, cuius de fonte furores Sacros hauserunt veteresque novique Poetae▪ A funeral Elegy upon the death of Sir Robert Cotton Knight and Baronet. Talis eras nostros inter, Cottone, Britannos, Rerum explorator veterum. Civilia iura Regni, Magnatum molimina, munia Regum Et populi, nexus faustos, divortia saeva, Navigia, et merces, castra, artes, religiones, Nummos, structuras, chartas, solennia verba, Et quic quid bello faceret vel pace triumphos Callebat dextrè, nemo magis, omnis ab illo Et tua Camdene & Seldeni gloria crevit▪ Ingentes Dominos titulorum dote superbos Famo sosque Equites (simul omnes si perijssent) Quivis Rex Orbi potis est renovare; beatum Cottoni pectus nullâ est reparabile cera. Ingenio quicunque vigent tua tecta frequenter Visebant, tanquam à Phoebo responsa petentes. Nunc Oracla silent, sed non Schediasmate tantae Oceanum laudis liceat transnare, misellum Nescio quid gaudens ad amici iusta litasse: Omnia complectar celebrat Wigornia verbis Queis Neckami obitum, crescitque in carmine verum. " Eclipsim patitur sapientia, Sol sepelitur, " Cui si par unus minus esset flebile funus. He died at his house in Westminster the sixth of May, about ten of the clock in the forenoon, Anno 1631. being aged, threescore years, three months, and some few odd days: He took to wife Elizabeth, one of the daughters and heirs of William Brocas Esquire, by whom he had issue, only one Son, Sir Thomas Cotton Baronet, now living; who married Margaret, Daughter of the Lord William Howard, grandchild to Thomas Duke of Norfolk, by whom he hath issue, one Son, named john, and two Daughters, Lucy and Francis. But to return: I have had many helps, I confess, from Sir Henry Spelman, Knight, and john Selden Esquire, the most learned Antiquaries now living of our times: nor have the helps been few which I have long received from the well furnished, and daily increasing Library of Sir Simonds D'ewes' Knight, whose judicious directions, and ready assistance, were as often vouchsafed unto me, as I had occasion to request, and whose long studied, and still intended labours for the public good, though in another kind, may in due time make his memory and themselves dear unto posterity: diverse of the Heralds have much furthered these my intended designs; namely, Sir Richard, and Sir Henry Saint George, Knights▪ john Philipot, and William Le Neve, Esquires, which I shall ever acknowledge, as occasion presents itself. Venerable Bede, when he compiled the Chronicles of the English Saxons, had all the help that might be of the Bishops and learned men of this Land. Cymbertus wrote unto him all that was done in Lincolnshire: Nothelmus also sent unto him all that he had gathered together in Sussex, Surrey, and Kent. Alcuinus gave him his labours and collections for the Province of York. Daniel of Winchester made him privy of all that was done amongst the west Saxons: And from all other quarters of the Land, were Letters, Scrolls, and writings, directed unto him by messengers, to aid and assist him in his enterprise, as he doth himself acknowledge in his Epistle Dedicatory to Ceolnulph, King of the Northumber's. Now generous Reader, as he had these helps for the perfecting of his Ecclesiastical History, and as I have had the acceptable assistance of many of my good friends, studious in this kind, for the finishing of this first part, and the rest of the work now in hand, which is already in a good forwardness, let me entreat thy furtherance in the same thus far, that, in thy neighbouring Churches, if thou shalt find any ancient funeral Inscriptions, or antique obliterated Monuments, thou wouldst be pleased to copy out the one, and take so much relation of the other as tradition can deliver; as also to take the Inscriptions and Epitaphs upon Tombs and Gravestones which are of these times; and withal to take order that such thy collections, notes, and observations may come safely to my hands; and I shall rest ever obliged to acknowledge thy pains and courtesy. And I would earnestly desire the Tombe-makers of this City of London, and elsewhere, that they would be so careful of posterity, as to preserve in writing the Inscriptions or Epitaphs which they daily engrave upon Funeral Monuments, from whom I shall expect the like kindness, and to whom I will ever remain alike thankful. For, I intent, God willing, hereafter to publish to the view of the world, as well the modern, as the ancient memorials of the dead throughout all his Majesty's foresaid Dominions, if God spare me life; if not, it is enough for me to have begun, as Camden saith in his Epistle to the Reader of his book Britannia, and I have gained as much as I look for, if I shall draw others, when I am dead, into this argument; whose inquisitive diligence and learning, may find out more, and amend mine. It may seem, peradventure, unpleasing to some, for that I do speak so much of, and extol the ardent piety of our forefathers in the erecting of Abbeys, Priories, and such like sacred Foundations. To the which I answer with Camden, that I hold it not fit for us to forget, that our Ancestors were, and we are of the Christian profession, and that there are not extant any other more conspicuous and certain Monuments of their zealous devotion towards God, than these Monasteries with their endowments, for the maintenance of religious persons, neither any other seed-plots besides these, from whence Christian Religion and good literature were propagated over this our Island. Neither is there any other act of piety more acceptable in the sight of Almighty God, then that of building Churches, Oratories, and such like sacred edifices, for the true service of his heavenly Majesty. Ethelbert the first Christian King of Kent, having built S. Paul's Church London, and diverse other Churches and religious structures, as I show hereafter, is thus commended to posterity by this Epitaph following, which passed with applause no question in those days. Rex Ethelbertus hic clauditur in Polyandro, Fana pians certus Christo meat absque Meandro. King Ethelbert lieth here closed in this Polyander, For building Churches sure he goes To Christ without Maeander. The pious care likewise and gracious intention of our late Lord and Sovereign King james of famous memory, had, for the repairing of the foresaid Church of Saint Paul, and the earnest desire and purpose, which our dread Lord and Sovereign now hath (proceeding out of his zeal to God's glory and his divine worship) for the repairing and upholding, as his Father intended, of that venerable large Fabric and goodly Pyle of building, will be had in remembrance to all generations, and their names will be registered in the book of the living. And the munificent allowance towards the said work from William Laud, now Lord Bishop of London, of one hundred pounds by the year, while he doth contiune there Bishop, shall be commended, and had in remembrance of all his Successors for ever. It may, perhaps, be distasteful to some for that I write so fully of the fall and backsliding of Religious Persons from their primitive zealous ardour of piety, making that the main cause of the dissolution of Abbeys: which I do, for that some are of opinion, that because many of these Monasteries were built upon the occasion of rapine and blood, the Founders thereby thinking to expiate their guilt, and make satisfaction for their sins (an error in point of Divinity) these sacred structures howsoever consecrated to the service of Almighty God, could not stand fast, nor continue in one and the same state for many ages; therefore I think it meet and expedient to discover and lay open to the world, the manifold enormities of the professed votaries residing in such religious foundations; that it may evidently appear that it was not the sins of the Founders (of whose pious intentions we ought to have a more reverend opinion) that their donations were of no longer continuance but that the delinquencies of the religious Orders themselves, were the sole cause of their own utter subversion. I may, perhaps, be sound fault withal, because I do not chorographically and according as Churches stand, near or further remote in one and the same Lath hundred or wapentack, emprint and place the Funeral Monuments in this my book; but slip sometimes from one side of a County to another before I emprint and Epitaph. To which give me leave to make this answer, that having found one or two ancient Funeral inscriptions, or obliterated Sepulchers, in this or that Parish Church, I have ridden to ten Parish Churches distant from that, and not found one. Besides I have been taken up in diverse Churches by the Churchwardens of the Parish, and not suffered to write the Epitaphs, or to take view of the Monuments as I much desired, for that I wanted a Commission; which would greatly have encouraged me (and still it would) as that of Henry the eight did john Leyland, in the prosecution of this business. I conclude the Epitaphs and Funeral inscriptions in this book as I find them engraven, with a cuius anime propitietur Deus: or with God pardon his soul; which some may say might have been as well left out of my book, as they are in many places scraped out of the brass: And I write the Latin in the same manner as I find it either written or imprinted, as capud for caput, nichil for nihil, and the like; as also E vocal, for E diphthong, dipthongs being but lately come into use. And now I hope that neither the conclusion of the one, nor termination of the other will seem any way offensive to my intelligent Reader. I likewise write the Orthography of the old English as it comes to my hands; and if by the copying out of the same it be any manner of ways mollified, it is much against my will, for I hold originals the best; whereby some may object the simplicity of my unlaboured stile, and the rough hewn form of my writing. To which I reply, that this my kind of Argument is incapable of all eloquent speech. When I cite Ovid or Lucan, I use those exquisite translations of George Sa●dys, and Thomas May Esquires. Some will say, that the Epitaphs of London are already printed, and true it is that some are, especially such as are of later times, with which I do not meddle at all, only I set down those of more antiquity, which have either been omitted in the collection, or for which I have some historical elucidations, for the better understanding of the qualities of the parties defunct and interred. Having had the helps and collections of many, my Reader may find errors in some, which hereafter I shall study to amend; entreating in the mean time a favourable construction. Many are the erratas, I am afraid, which will be found in the printing, the greatest I have met withal I have amended, not doubting but some also of consequence have escaped me; and for those of lesser note, I have passed them over, desiring my Reader to correct and pardon. Thus, courteous Reader, submitting myself, and this work, to thy learned and friendly censure, I take my leave. From my House in Clerkenwell Close, this 28. of May 1631. Chytraeus. Te moneant, Lector, tot in uno funera libro, Tempore quod certo tu quoque funus eris. So many burials, Reader, in one book Warn thee, that one day, thou for death must look. A TABLE OF THE DISCOURSE summed into certain Chapters or Heads, bearing these following Contents The first Chapter, Fol. 1. DIscusses and treats of Monuments in general. Chap. 2. fol. 5. Of Funeral Monuments, Graves, Tombs, or Sepulchers▪ of the ancient custom of Burials: of Epitaphs and other Funeral Honours. Chap. 3. fol. 10. Of Sepulchers answerable to the degree of the person deceased. The diverse manner of bearing man and woman to the grave. When both sexes began to be borne alike. Chap. 4. fol. 12. Of the excessive expenses bestowed upon Funerals in former times. Chap. 5. fol. 18. The reasons wherefore so many have made their own Sepulchers or Tombs, in their life time. Of the care that all or most of all men, have of decent burial. The burying of the dead, a work acceptable unto God. A Funeral Hymn of Aurelius Prudentius to the like purpose. Chap. 6. fol. 29. Of the care and cost anciently used in the preserving whole and entire, the bodies of the dead. Strange ways, customs and fashions of burial. Chap. 7. fol. 32. Of Cenotaphs honorary, and Religious: of the reverence attributed to these empty Monuments. Chap. 8. fol. 37. Of the sanctity ascribed sometimes to ancient Funeral Monuments, and of the ardent desire most men have and ever had to visit the Tombs and Sepulchers of eminent and worthy persons. Chap. 9 fol. 42. Of the punishments both by humane laws, and Gods severe justice, inflicted upon such malefactors in foregoing ages; who violated Sepulchers. Of Church-Robbers. Chap. 10. fol. 50. Of the rooting up, taking away, erazing and defacing of Funeral Monuments in the several reigns of K. Henry the eight, and Edward the sixth. Of the care Queen Elizabeth, of famous memory, had for the preservation of the same, Her proclamation in the second year of her reign against breaking or defacing of Monuments of Antiquity, being set up in Churches, or other public places, for memory and not for superstition. Chap. 11. fol. 57 The conversion of this our Nation from Paganisine to Christianity, including generally the Foundations of Religious Structures in the same. The piety in the primitive times, both of Religious and Lay persons. Chap. 12. fol. 66. Of the fall or backsliding, as well of Religious Votaries, as of Lay people from the foresaid zealous ardour of piety. Chap. 13. fol. 78 Of the abrogation, abolition and extinguishment of the Pope's supreme and exorbitant authority within the King of England's dominions. Chap. 14. fol. 89. The policy used by Henry the eight, and his Council in the expelling of the Pope's foresaid authority out of his dominions. Chap. 15. fol. 104. The policy used by the King and his Council for the dissolution and extirpation of Religious foundations, and religious orders within this Realm of England and Wales, the reformation of religion, of Inscriptions in Churches; the Kings warrant for the surrender of Religious Houses: an information to Queen Elizabeth, of the several abuses done unto the state general and Crown, by the corruption of such as were employed by her Father upon the suppression of Abbeys. Chap. 16. fol. 127. The time of the institution of Religious Orders, their several Names and Authors, and the infinite increase of their Fraternities and Sisterhoods. Chap. 17. fol. 157. Of the sundry ways and means by which Religious Votaries, and others of the Clergy enriched themselves and other Churches: of Pardons, Pilgrimages, and Romescot. Chap. 18. fol. 176. Of Parishes, Bishoprickes, Sanctuaries, and of the Ecclesiastical estate of England and Wales. Errata. IN the Epistle to the Reader, in the Elegy of Sir Robert Cotton, read Wigornia. Page 16. line 33▪ reed of. p. 20. l. 10. r. home. p. 53. l. 26. r. of money. ead. l. 27. r. of any. p. 62. l. 6. r. Chilperick. p. 76. l. 20. r. laicis. p. 128. l. 32 r. Mysteries. p. 136. l. 34. r. Bernard. p. 16. l. 23. r. read. p. 163. l. 25. r. And. p. 172. l 18. r. leuti. p. 180. l. 9 r. have had, omitted. p. 235. l. 8. r. of. p. 247. l. 17. r. ut: p. 273. l. 4. 81. l. p. 273. l 16. r. Totehill. p. 284. l. 24. the number of Constables mistaken. p. 295. two halfelines transposed. p. 301. l. 1. r. him omitted. p. 336. l. 17. r. iwate. p. 418. l. 36. r. Tudenham. p. 425. in omitted twice. p. 429. l 30. r. obijt. p. 496. l. 4. r. Edward. pa. ead. l. 25. r. Wesenham. pa. 597. Essex before West Ham, omitted. A TABLE OR INDEX OF PROPER NAMES AND OTHER OCCURRENCES CONTAINED IN THIS BOOK OF ANCIENT FUNERAL MONUMENTS. A ABberbury 141 Abbot Archbishop 198 Abbot of S. Bennets hanged 819 able 771 Absolution anciently 341 Acres joan 734.737 740 Acton 611 Adrian Pope 152.175 578. Abb●t 251 Agalmare 301 Aylwood 699 ●yl●ffe 645 647 Aylmer 802.114 Ayrem●n Bishop 791 Ayremin Priest 79. 7●2 Al●n Earl of Britain 725 Saint Alban exempted from the jurisdiction of Lincoln 559 Al●e●y Earl of Arundel 809 8●0 811 860 Albin 585 Albion 375.380 ●lbred 752 Albuger 290 ●l●ock 780 Alderham 533 Ald●rt●n 654 Alexander Bishop 794 Alexander 256 Alexander Sergeant at Law 536 Alefe 282 Alegh 33● Alen● 603 Albrighton 381 Alford 680 Algar 550 Alexander 3●1 Alkmond 724 Allen 401 Alerthorp 367 Allington● 546 Alphege 326 Alrick King 344 Altar portable 340 Al●wicke Bishop 869 Ampe 732 Amphibalus 552.585 Anna King of the East Angles, his religions daughters 242.760.761.768 Anne Duchess of Bedford 371 Anne Bullen Queen beheaded 514 Arm Queen 473 477 Arm Duchess of Exeter 425 Annabull 552 Anco 570 Anchorites 150 Andrew 275 Anglesford 317 Ansered 762 Anselm Archbish. ●16, Sainted 302 Anstell 546 Aparre 109 Apulton 759 Apulderfield 27●. 280 Appleton 826.335 Aquila Richerius 570 571 Archbishops of Canterbury Sainted 298 Archbishops of London 414 Archer 528 Arderne 811 Arfastus Bishop 785. His ignorance ibid. His death and burial 8●7 Argentein 545.546 805 Arnold 445 Arsne 389 Athington 54 Arundel Steeple 2●6 Arundel 411.635.647.756 Arundel Bishop 444 Arundel Archbishop 225 284 Aruiragus King 58 59 Aslake 763 Ask 103 Ashby 72.422.590 756 Ashwell 671 674. ●75 Ashbornham 138 Assheton 267.268 A●ker 801.804 Aspall 779 Astall 327 Astley 435.695 60● Astry 406 581 Athelstane King 181 Athol Countess 213 Atkinson 676.680 at 206 Atlea ●4● Atte ●eese 274 Art Cap●ll 271 Atterbury 11● Atticor 336 Attlee 731 Attewood 4●● Auditor wha● 53● Audley Earl of Gloucester 3●● Audley Lord Chancellor ●14 427 Audley Lord 859 Audley 8●6 Audley End ●26 Auelyn 8●4 Auelyn Countess of Lancaster 17● Augustus Caesar ●●● Aun●esham 5●● Austin Archbishop 242 29●, misnumbered 298 Austin bishop of Hippo 132. H●s E●pitaph ibid. Austin 721 Axenham 115 B BASILIUS 266 Babington 114 Babthorp 570 Bacon 476. 583.812.813.804.82● Baconthorp 7●7. 738.813 Badelesmere 238.617. ●88 Badewe 641 Bagot 323 Bayly 700. 44● Baynard Lord 631.632 Baysbury 542 Baysham 389 Bakewell 429 Ball a pseudoprophert 745. His wicked spirits 746 Baldock Bishop 363 Baldwin King 278 Ballard 640 Balyoll K. 460 Bal●oll 213 Bamme 316 Banknot 334 Banyard 805 Baynard Lord 631 Bansher 780 Babthorp Ralph 579 Baptising in Rivers 309 Barns 89.432.416 Bar 290.291 Barloe 548 Barnet Bishop 72 Barret Lord Baton of Newburgh 447 Barret ibid. Barret 278 misnumbered for 280. Bartlet 104 Bartlot 440 Bartelote 423 Barry 296.297.190 Barking 486 Barkham 362 Barker 672.675.680 Barons slain at Barnet field 419 Barton 379.439.293.501.516 Barington 605.631 Barentine 601 Barnake 651 Barners or berner's 656.657 Barney 784 Bardesley Lord 750. misnumbered. Barmingham ibid. Batly 110 Bardolphes noble Barons 812.861 Barnardiston 733.734 Barnaby 781 Bassa 260 Basset Lord 542 Basset Bishop 363 Basset 356.830 Basin 421 battle 696 Battles 317.344 345.704.705.706.707.708.458 Bateman Bishop 869 Batifford 780 Bauld sive Bawd a family of note 602 Baxter 823 Beauchampe 419.797.661.742.658: 329 Beauchampe Lord 477.371 Beauchampe Earl of Warwick 372.380 Beaumond Lord 700.782 Beaumond 25.621.822.325.335. Beaufort marquis 211. Duke of Exeter 726 Beaufort 794. & alibi. Beaufiz or Beaufies 316 Beaweys Bishop 429.607.762 Beck Bishop 805.869 Becket Archbishop 87.199.303.307 344.548.744.789.400.204 Becket 378 Beckley ●64 Bedel 197. 104.504.48● Bedford 612 Bedingfield 784 Bederenden 331 Bee 807 Begebury 272 Belhouse 863 Bellamy 782 De Bello Rob. 256 Bellemont surnamed Fitzpernell E. of Leicester 260 Bellingham 114 Bells 633.122. great Bell at Westminster 491. at Dover 268. jesus Bells 378 Benhall 805.826 A Benefice for dog's meat 273 Benson 387 Benaker 682 Benolt king of Arms 33 516 72.675 679 Benent of Norfolk 804 Bonivet 320 Berdefield 656 Berford 524 Bernard 138.827 Berney 827.826.859 Bernwell 581 Berry 543.805.680 Berkley Lo: 213.214.335 Berkley Marquesle 419 Berta Queen 241 Bert 721 Berty Lord 327 Berton 807 Bettenham 2●4 Best 274 Beulled 580 Bevill 157 Biggs 238 Biglon 641 Bigot Earl 752.766.828.829 830 Billing 493.498 Billington 535.824 Billet 674.679 Billingsworth 230 Bird 531 Birked ibid. Bishop what 178 Bishops canonised 298.710. ●68 Bishop's seats anciently 720 A Bishop stangely buried ibid. Byseley 675 Byseworth 576 Bladud King 517.518 Bladwell 779 Blake 581 Blackmore 633 Black Will or Will Slaughter 520 Blanche Duchess of Lancaster 365 Blechenden 267 Blennerhasset 821 Blewet Bishop 70 Blund 734.816.766 Blount 526.427.805 Blount Charles Earl of Devonshire Blount Mountloy Lord Mountloy Blount William Lord Mountloy, Blount Walter 405 Bloys 486 Blomuill 596 Blooer 286 Blundevill Bishop 869 Bockon 296 Bocham 633 Bocher 814 Boerell 751 Bodley 692.361 Bohuns Earls 210.418.638.541.388.626 Bokenham 817 865 Bokill 720 Bolton 434 Bolbeck 615.654 Boleyn Bolen or Bullen 398.798.799.864.606.514 Bomsted or Bumpsted 763.784 Boniface Archbishop 285 Boniface Bishop of Men●z 67 Bonefellow 824 Bonehard Laind 394 Bonvill 412 Boner 116 Bonevant 333 Borne 805.257 5●5 Borrell 551.751 Borough king at arms 687 Borgeris 282 Borham 762 Boon Abbot 726 Booth Bishop 444 Booth 445.781 Bootes 416 Boswell 796.797 Botill 431 Boteler or Butler 282. 747.751.400.401.7●8.544.805.606 Bottold 750 Bourchler Earl 628.229 Bourchier 237.323.543.619.705.815.830 Bourchier Archbishop 229.324 Bowsers Bell 630 Bourne 279 Bowrman 395 Bows 784.388 Bowls Bishop 309 Bowbell 402 Bowrd 607 Boydale 526 Boys 782.368.382.804.674.678 Boyland 805.368 Boyvile 782 Boxhull 380.484 Brabazon 368 Bradwardin Archbishop 222.223 Bradshaw 687 Bradlaine 322 Bray 468.429.450.523. Braybroke 640.328.329.429.381 Braybroke Bishop 360 Braham 753 Bra● 429 Brampton 809.367 Bradene 579 Brands 318 Brandon Charles Duke of Suffolk 602.620.726.769 Branch 826.815 Brember 410 Brews Lord 260. Brews 806.720.752.753 Breach K: 459 Brereton 514 Brent 294.532.290 Bredon 332 Bret 8●8 Breakespeare Pope 57●. 175.152.391 Brendward 329 Brenton Bishop 325 Brember 410 Bregwin Archbishop 249 Breux 418 Bryene or Bruin 325 Bryan 778.593.426 Bricot 369 B●uget Nun 335 Briton 201.202 Briset Baron 428.429.430.431 Briggs 587 B●igham 489 Brittingham 72 Brickles 408 Brithwald Archbishop 248.258 Brocas Ep. to the Reader. Broke 754.114.591.324. Baron 328.329 Brockhall 238 Brome 796.865.790 Brockholl 294 Brokenbury 521 Brokitwell 393 Bromflet Lord 588 Bromeley 675.679 Brompton 367 Browne 134.235.807.238.675.579.636.795 856 Brown Bishop 869 Brand 816.817 B●otherton E. Marshal 433.726 Brugge or Brugges the first king at arms named Garter 659 Brugge Lord Maior 412 Brun 479.655 Bruin 602.625 Bruno the first Carthusian 144.145 Brunham 791 Bruchelle 235 Bru● 496 Brudenell Lord 656 Brute King 374.375.396 Buckland 331 Bucks head borne in procession 603 Bucton 784.781 Budrices Yurthe 721 Bull 239.429 Bunbury 110 Burgese 319 Burgoine 325.326 Burley 367 Bird 693 Burleton 334 Burton 398 Burnell Lord 635 Burnham 817 Burford Baron 531 Burgh 740. 7●5.860.440.349.716 Burrow 390 Bury S. edmond's burned 733 Bury 380 Burials of the dead slain in battle 344.345.704.705.706.707.708 777 Burials vide Discourse Cap. 2, 3, 4, 5 Burwash 212 Burstall 448 Bushop 527 Busbrig 436 Butts 812.525 Butterfield 537 Butterwick 742 Butler vide Bot●ler. Buxton 814 C Cade 279.391.747 Cadwall King 386 Canies' 370 Caly 598 Calthorp 825.796.859.805 Camden 673.677 Camoys 822 Campion 695 Candlin 238 Candish 742. vide Cavendish Cantlow 695 Canute or Knute King 721. his Charter to Bury S. Edmund's 819 Capell or Attecapell 272.417.742 Capgrave 263 Carry Baron Hunsdon. Cary Lord Chamberlain, cousin german to Queen Elizabeth. 544 Carry Earl of Dover. 606.544 Carey Lo. Falkland 592 Carew castle 731 Carew 114.426.731 Carbonell 744 Carlisle 672 Car 599 Cardinals 383.384 Carhill 526 Carleton, vide Charleton, Cars 599 Carmelite nameless 611 Carpenter 379 Carpenwald K. 62 Casy 395 Castle 863 Catcher 537 Catesby. 327 Cave 114 Cawne 327 Cauz 448 Cavendish Earl of Newcastle ●30 Cauend●sh 112.528 69● Cau●sini what 300 Caxion 864 Cecil William, Earl of Salisbury 511 230 Cely 274 Cenotaphs, vide Discourse, cap 7. chaloner 430 Chareport 27● Chardport 111 Chadwort 542 Chapman 333 Chapney 672 Chamberlain 409.547.857 Champion 417 Chancey 549. 5●6 Chamceux 6●5 Charles King, Dedication and 497 Charles Emperor 319 Chandry 543 Charleton 324.534.751. misnumbered 822 Charles 317.750.825.826 Chartsey 743 Chaucer 489. 4●1 Chair of Marble 459 Cheake or Cheke 760 783 Chesterfield 72 Chency 776.700.835.865.866.686.330 284 599.550 Chickwell 371 Chicheley Archbishop 227 Chicheley Lord 409 Chint 625 Chyett 696 Chillenden 236 Chishull Bishop 363 church 655 Chitting 687 Christianity in Wales ever since Lucius his reign 414 Cholmundeley 499 Chute 294 Church Robbers 42 Churchyard 497 Clay 551 Clare Earl of Glocest. 589, 322, 323, 632. 734. etc. Clarembald 255 Claudine Contentus 265 Claydon 751 Clerk 111 Clavell 527 Claudius' Emperor 708 Clavering 825.329.826 Cley 483 Clere 797.783 Clement 327 Clerk of the Pipe 694. Of the privy Scale 694. Of the Crown 700 Clerk 732.598 Clerk Bishop 426 Clifton 270.804.811.805 Clinton Lo. 866 Clifford Bishop 364. Clifford 656 281.237.429 831 Cli●herow 265 Clock comparing with the Sun, Moon and the Dial 800 Clop●●n 659.660.609 747, 776 742.743 Clot ●●● 770 Cobham 327.291 329 330.328 C●●k 676.781.607 Cockame 381 Codum 72● C●● 622.623 C●slin 594 Cogges●●ll 699.609.617.636 657 Coill K●ng 612 Coke and Cook 625.650.673.682. ●●4. 550.182.625 Co●a● 608 Colby 547 Cole 411 Colin 337 Colins 529 Colwell 259.276.277 Col●hester 611 C●li●t 140 761.368.369.540 Collier 671.674.679.675 C●lvyle 751 〈◊〉 676.681 〈◊〉 274 Colpeper, ●ide Culpeper. Columbers 297.330 Comb 486 Compton 535.336 Constenton 317 Congee Disquire its form and interpretation 726.727 Constable of Chester. 811 Conyers 760 Co●●gesbie● a family 592 Constable 284 Conghurst 317 Contention betwixt the Archbishops of Canterbury and York for primacy 305.306 Co●stantin Emperor 612 Constance Duchess of Lancaster 365 Constance Duchess of Norfolk 425 Copeland 402 Copledike 114 Coppinger 54.700 780 Cornwalleys 764.765.406 Cornwall Baron 284.531 Corbevill 268 Cornelius Van Dun 499 Corineus 396.397 Cornburgh 648 Coronation of King Ed. first 456 Cordall 748.60 Corpus Christi play 405 Cotgrave 676.681 Cotton Rob. his death and Epitaph, Epistle to the Reader, and 496 Cotton 759.550.493 Cotet 805 Coat 732 Courtney 544.436 Courtney E. of Devon 328 Courtney Archbishop 225.285.869 Coventry 402 Cowall 814 Cowgate 805.807 Cow●elit 263 Coway stakes 704 Crane 545.778 Crancumbe 448 Cranmer Archbishop 103.506. His wisdom 507 Cranuile 744 Creketot 734 Creke 766 Crew 820 Cresner 335 Cressenor 744 Cressacre 401 Crevequer 286 Cressy 376. 645.551.39● Crispe 267 Crispin and Crispinian 271 Crispin 487.829 Cryoll Lo. 322.336 Crymvill 606 Cromwell Lo. Treasurer 700 Cromwell 104.114.864.501.593.509 512 Crongethorpe 805.807 Dela Crois 209 Crosby 421 Crosses at Lincoln: Granthan etc. 464 Crook 676 Croston 427 Crowland 649 Cromer 235.279 863 Cudden 859 Culpeper 272.281▪ 326.327.338.796 Cunred 252 Cunebelin or Kimbalin King 608 Cure first of the King's evil 453 courteous 537.594 Cuthbert Archbishop 214.249.67 S. Cuthbert Bishop 151 S. Cuthberts' feast 349 D DAcre 291.498 Dacres vide Fines: Dayner 238 Dayres 682 Daker 291 Dalusse 406 Dalton 673: 676.680.68 Dallington 3●0 Damory Lord 44.544 Danyell 535.548 Dannet 629 Danset 416 Dondlyon 259 Danewott 707 Dance of Paul's 378 Dammary 628 Darosse 814 Darland 700 Darcies' 534.371.426.609.640 Darell 294.235 Davy 582.815.332.591 David K▪ 46, Debenham 80, Deynes or Dennis 764.859 Deyncourt 651 Deyre 274 Dey 718 De la Pole 759.863.744 328.758 Pole 231 De la Downe Den 416 497 Dennys 859 Denneyes 784 Denny Ed. E. of Norwich 6●6 Denny 645.852 Dengayn 805 Dentwell 592 Dene Archbishop's 231. Dene 318 Denham 751 Denbank 829 Denston 781 Deodate Archbishop 299 Derik 89 Dernford 721 Dering 292.293.294.295 Dering Droff ibid. Derham 855 Dernford 721 Dethick 681.677.682.676.680.683.669 672 The Devil a dancer 300. A merry Gentleman 534 Devenish 250 Deus dedit Archbishop 247 Dew 333 D'Ewes 697.698.653.397.660.718.208.311. & alibi. Dialogue 'twixt a Secular Priest and a Friar 734 Dig 238.134.367 270 Digon 259 Dighton 520.72 Dilcock 606 Dinham Lord 609 Diocese of London 72 Distich in Guild Hall 399 Dissension between the Covent of Bury S. edmond's and the Townsmen, vide Quarrel. Disse 806 Dominella 542 Domneva 261 Donations to religious houses with blessings and cursings 62 Donwalle King 181 Donet 331.286 Doreward 619 Dover Isab. Countess of Assile 213 Dover Rose 337 Douglas Bishop 446.491 Downmeer 532 Dough 782 Down 331 Drake 814.823.610 Drayton 4.303.345. & alibi Dreux Earl of Richmond 387 Drury 744.760.730.779.778 D●●lege the little Abbot 258 Dudley 417.114 Dudley D. of Northumberland 515.320▪ Duke 747.732 Dunster 2●9 Dunham 8●5. 826 Van D●n 499 Dunstable 577 Dunston Archbishop 300 301 357 E Eadsine Archbishop 302 Eadburgh 263 Eadbald King 268 Eastgate 353 Ecki●ford 331 Ekington 535 Edbald King 242 ●den 747 Edgar King 240. his oration to his Bishops 67.68 Epington Bishop 71 Editha Queen 453.645. Edmund Ironside King 344. Ed. D. of York 588. Ed. E. of Lane. 477 Edmund Archbishop 303 Edmund E. of March 860 Edmund D. Somerset 573 Edmund King Martyr 724.725 Edw. the first king 456. the third 339 465. the fifth 520 Edw. and Rich. the sons of king E. 4. murdered, their supposed interment 520.521 Edw. eldest son of Ed. the black Prince 419 Ed. the black Prince 205 Edw. confessor King 452.646. his vision 456. Edw. Prince 204.419. Edw. D. of Cornwall. 586 Edward son of Tho. of Brotherton, Earl Martial 753 Ed. Duke of Somerset. Vide Seymour Ed. de la Bay 587 Egard 778 Egbert King 242.260.261 Egelnoth Archbishop 301 Egelfind 253.346 Egelmare Bishop 785 Egfrid king 569.761 Egfend 825 Eglesfeild 598 Egwolfe 714. his shrines 381 eager 412.421 Egremond Lord 635 Egton 292 Elshum 260.335.236.290 Elsnoth Archbishop 253 Ethelbald king 177 Eleanor Queen 464 Elizabeth Queen of England 398.799.606.514 Eleonor Countess of Derby 407 Elinor Duchess of Glocest. 638 Elizabeth Countess of A●holl 275 Elizabeth Countess of Northampton 388 Elizabeth Countess of Shrewsbury 335 El●zabeth Countess of Winchelsey 297 Eliz. D. of King Henry 7. 477 Ellys 801.290 Elingham 814 Elinham 727 Elinham D. B. 785.335 Elphege Archbishop 301.339 Emma Queen 242 Emma Anchoress 807 Empson 416.656 Eudo Dapiser 612 Engaine 651 Enot 750 Entwisell Bertin 578. Wilfred 597. Epitaphs. Vide Discourse cap. 2 Epsley 777 Eraclius or Heraclius Patriarch 431 441 Ercombert King 242 Ereby 330 Erkenwald Bishop 599.358.713. his shrine 380 Ermingland 826 Ermested 114 Erlington 537.427 Erpingham 796.856.209 Espoke 136 Esquires of five sorts 595. 59● Esquire what ibid. Esseby 298 Essex 603.259.524 Ethelburg 599.761 Ethelbert King 308.239.241.413.260.354. his Tower 259 Ethelinga 261 Ethelred King 357 Ethelwolfe King 174.181 Ethelgoda Queen 451 Eton 657 Euaristus first Bishop of Rome 176 Eve 539 Euersden 722 Everard Bishop 789 Eue●ingham 72 Ewer 370 Eustach de Merch 547 Eustace King Stephen's son 278 Ewell 771 Excommunication 48 Extraneus 530.823 F FAbian 352.416 Fabel Peter though merry devil of Edmundton 534 Falleys 721 Farmyngham 760.157 Farringdon 890 Fastolfe 782.751.783.784.863.805 Fauconbridge B●shop 359 Faurlore 399 Feast whose fragments were suffici●ent for ten thousand men 7●1 Fel●●ingham 80● Felix Bishop 717.730.766. ●●● Fellow 672 675 621 Felbridge 983. 856.8●● De la Field ●●● Feltsham ●●● Fenningle 5●● Fermont 647 Fernesold ●99 Ferers 484.804 Ferers Will. Earl 811 Ferminus 760 Ferrant 672.675.679 Fereby 392 Ferres 804 Feversham 276.282.283 Feigns Lord Say 324 Beheaded 279 Feigns or Fines Lord Dacre executed 41● Fyge 656 Fylazar what 537 Filian 750 Fyloll 606 701 Fyn●n Bishop 713 Fineux ●35. 269 Findon 244.257 Finch 297.270.236.276 Fincham 81● Finers 731 Fisher Bishop 500.501.502.503.504 Fisher 525 Fytz pain 617 Fytz james Bishop 364 526 Fitz-Peter 855 Fitz Gerald 532 Fitz Alan Earl of Arundel 418. Edm. 542. Tho. Archbishop 225 Fitz Mary 416.500 Fitz-Roy D. of Richmond 840 Fitzwater 607.337.632, 633, 598.744, 291, 613.811 Fitz-vr●e 201.202 Fitz john 721, 821 Fitz-Geffrey 855 Fitz Roger 598 Fitz-Theobald 400 Fitz-Hugh Bishop 360 Fitzwarren 406 Fitz-Gilbert 629, 630 Fi●z-Hamon 829 Fitz-Neile Bishop: his shrine 381 Fitz Richard 633 Fitz-Lewes 801, 425 Fitz-Mary 426 Fitz-Hugh Bishop 360 Fitz Gousbert 356 Flambard 70.531 Fleming Bishop 74, 531 Fleming 74.792.350 Flint 801 Flodden field 395, 838 De Floriaco Hugh 254 Flower 143, 673, 676, 680, 681 Floyde 780 Flow●rdew 864 Focaces 527 Fog 275, 235, 182 F●lk●rd 7●7 Folth●m 806 Font of brass 564. Font at Vfford 753. at Fastwinch 849 Forms of old deeds 603.604 Forster 447 Forma● 647 Ford 537 For●e●t 520 Forlace ●93 Forsham 288 Fortescues 799 Foster 387 Foundation of Christ Church in Canterbury 197 Fowler 530. 11● Fowki●ke battle 458 Fox 72.150.654.624 Francan● 721 Frank 675, 679.681 Francis 399 534.659 Frankland 392 Fresill 727 Frevyt 638 Framingham 783 Frere 288 Frederick 258 Freak Bishop 870 Fristobald ●07. misprinted. Frithona Archbishop 2●9. 247 Fryston 727 Frost 598 Frowicke 692. 533.399.8●1 Frogenhall 278 Fromers 859 Froudes 436 Fulmerston 827 Fulbert Lord of Chilham 213 Fulborne 146 Fuller 744 Fulham 429 Fursens ●n holy Scot 767 G Gauges 235 Galeas john Duke of Milan 740 741 Gayton 432 Garden 497 Gardener 237 Guardian 111 Garrard 179 Garneys 804.780.783.784 Gate 620 Gaunt john Duke of Lanc. 356. 365.661.28●.828 Gawge 325 Gaveston Earl of Cornwall 588 589.590 Gavelkinde what 348 Gedoing 778 Gedney 860 Geney 804 George Duke of Clarence 284 German 111 Gerock 597 Gernons 617 Gerard 531.114 Gerbridge 805.863 Giants 396.707 Gibson 541 Giddey Hall 650 Gifford 210.779.744 Gilbert 148 Giles 440 Gildersburgh 601 guysor's 406 Githa King Harold's mother 642.643 Glanvill 700 857. 748.855.857.858.218.762.7●7.859 Glanvill Bishop 313 Glendower 742.231 Glemham 782 Glover 278.676, 682, 814, & alibi Gloucester 421 Goddard 818, 263 Godfrey King 278 Godfrey 271, 278 Godwin Earl 240 Godwin Bishop 228, & alibi Gogmagog 39●. 396 Goldwell Bishop 295, 296.795, 869 Goldwyre 6 8 Goldington 550, 65● Goldingham 744, 781 Goldesbourgh 532 Goldeston 236 Goldrich 742 Goldhirst 404 Golston ●10 Gonvill 828 Good 385 Goodyer 592, 533 Goodfellow john his heart 436 Goosalue 864 Gorambery 583, 584 Gorbone 500 Gosse 531 Gosting 446 Goshall 265 Gotcelinus 710 Gousall 756 Gouson 114 Go●ncill 753 Gower 260, 270. & alibi Granthorpe 291 Grandison Bishop ●2●, unto 330 Gratiosus 251 Grave-diggers 51 Gravency 282 Gravesend Bishop 427, 600 Grey Earl of Kent 686, Bishop of Norwich 219, 789, Grey Lord 425 Grey 807.209.404▪ 212.855.854.406.436.412.743.744.539 Gredney 535 Greyton 655 Gregby 324 Greystocke 291.655 Greymund 744 Greene 429.272.656.550 Green Gown given to a Nun 72 Grevill 435 Gresham 400 Gryll 582. 82● Grinke●ell Bishop 78, Grise 825.826 Gros 582 816 Gualther Haddon 391 Guyes 776 Guildford 290 327.235 Guillim 682 Guilliamites 568 Guintoline king 517 Gundulfo Bishop 311.314 Gurney 826 Gurnage 825.826 Gurmund King 748▪ 749 Guttardus 252 Gwinne 45 H HAcket 54 Hadlow 263 Haddon Gualther. Vide Gualther Haddon Hadley the King's seat 750 Hadenham 315 Heyes Earls of Arroll 867 Hay and his two sons, their strange adventurous acts 866.867 De lay Hay 587 Haydok 324 ●aynes 90 Hakom 591 Halley 209 Halsall Bishop 446 Hales 677. ●24. 745.260 Hamond 780 Hamund 771 Hampton 259 Hammerton 598 Hamden 381 Hamner Doctor, a defacer of Funeral Monuments 427 Hamies 649 Harold King, Girth and Leofwin his brothers 642, 643, 644 Hardishall 720 Harold Harefoot King 444 Harlefton 602, 619.727.748 Hardesfield 720 Harecourt 811 Harling 857.828 Harrold 110 Hart 329.676 Hartshorne 694 Harvey of the Norman blood 722 Harvey King of Arms 672.526.679 Hardell 750 Harnold knight and Friar 721 Hatsick 805.815 Harding 209.237. & alibi Harfleet 265 Harington 370 Harison 546 Hardman 732 Harleton 609 Harpington 805 H●●senet Archbishop 870 Harpley 759 Hastings E. of Pembroke 259 Hastings Lord 259 700 Hastings Lord Hastings Wayford and Ru●hin 805 Hastings 831 750 804.805 Haselwood ●06 Haswell 678 Hastiludium 443 Ha●field 611.388 Hatcher 276 Hatton 364 Hatecliffe 338 Havering 651 Haukedon 744 Hawkin 863 Haule or Hawley 483.484 Hawberke 329 Hawte or Haute 238.239.275.327 Hawley 675 Hawling 806 Hawlherst 259 Hawkewood 623 Heath Bishop 314 Heydon 591. 81●.329 Helby 800 Helle Lord 588 Helena Empress 612 Helke 825 Helington 826 Henry Eatle of Northumberland 573 Hen. 8. king 78. etc. 430 Hen. the 7. king 476. Elizabeth his Queen, ibid. Hen. the 2. king 160.199.201.642 Hen. the 4. king 206, his last Will and Testament 208 Hen. the fifth 339.475 Hen. the 3. king 454.455.642 Hen. the first king 474.762. Katherine his wife 475 Hen. de la Field ●31 Henand ●53 Henche 338 Hengham 235.367.368 Hengist king 260.317 Heveningham or Henningham 535 654.656 Hennage 297.537 Hengrave 744▪ 863.828.804 Heningham 535.656.854 Heralds their Etymology, Antiquity, and dignity, 683.684. ●●5. SIXPENCES. The Herald's office: their corporation 687 Heralds their manner of creation 662, 663, 664, 665.666.667.669. Herald's their Catalogue and succession, 669, 670, 671, 672, 673, 674, 675, 676, 677, 679, 680▪ 681, 682, 683 Heruy 783 Herbert Earl of Pembroke 284 Herbert Bish. 786.787, 788.789.862 Herbert 780 Herbert 500 Hermit's ●50 Hermitage 500 499 Herneden 330 Hewn 390.537, 599 Heart 537 Hestinford 805 Hesilt 3●2 Heton 155, 544 Hetersete 805 Hetcorne 288 Heth 91 Hewyt 515 Hewn 599 Higham 812.821 Hikifrick his wondrous act 866 Hill 405.581 Hilton 103 Hildetha 599 Hinkley 779 Hinxworth 546 Hobart 861.862 Hoby 284 Holbroke 863 Holden 624 Holes 591 Holiness of religious and lay-people in the Primitive times discourse, cap. 11 Holiness of Bishops and Priests 178 Holmes 379 Holland Duke of Exeter 4●4 Holland Earl of Exeter 637 Earls of Kent 211 Holland 699 Holt 529 Holy Cross of Bromholme 858 Holmsworth 678 Holish 7●0 Holliday 720 Honorius Archbishop 247 Honell 828 Hoo 315.398 Hopkins 110 Hopton 114.783 Hopton Bishop 870 Horsa 317 Hore 803 Horn Church, or Hore Church 646 647 Horn 270 misprinted. Horkesley 611 Horsley 674 Hornley 334 Hosewyf 296 Hosiar 423 Hotham Bishop 792 Howard Katherine Queen 514 Howard Lady Katherine Duchess of Norfolk 774.775 Howard john and Thomas Dukes of Norfolk 687.830.831.832 833.134.835.836.837.838.839 Howard Thomas Earl of Arundel and Surrey Earl Martial 847 Howard 796.804.842 Howard Philip E. of Arundel 291 Howard Lord Will. Epistle to the Reader, and ●9● Howard Tho. Earl of Surrey 39● Howard Si● john and 〈…〉 wife 77● 773 The name of Howard derived 854 Howell 676 804 Howlditch 80● 864 Humbert Bishop ●6● Hunning ●●9 Hunt ●●● Huntingdon ●●● Husle ●14 Hunger and Hubb● ●●● Hubert de Burgo 118. 439.854.8● Hubert Archbishop 218 Hurden 259 Hu●oline 483 Humphrey D. of Gloc●ster 555 Humphrey Duke of Buckingham 284 Howard Tho. and Theoph 〈◊〉 Earle● of Suffolk 626 Howard 654 772.773 850 Howard Hen. Earl of Surrey 852 853 Howards Surname derived 853, 854 I IAcob 5●9 532 jackson 676 jambert Archbishop 249 jan Bishop 795, 869 james the 4. King of Scotland 393 394, 395, 837.838 james the sixth and first king 358.496 Icklesham 318 Iden 721 james 325 jegon Bishop 870 jenone ●31 jenny 783.865 jenning 675.770 537 jerningham 769.784, 770.779 jermey ●58, 781, 783 De Ie●ninta 825 jews brought into England; their scorn and mockery of Christianity, 377, their banishment, ibid. Ifield 701 Ikham 238 Ilkerishale 863 Images, etc. 125 In a king 173 Incent 587 Inglefield 660 Ingleby 543 Ingham 817, 818 Ingelricus 390 Inglosse 784 Innocent 535 Inscription upon Chensford Church 641 Inscript. upon Melford Church 747 Inscriptions upon bell● 633 Inscriptions 583, 584, 587 Inscription vp●●● Font 569 Inscrip. to the pictur. of Christ 509 Inscription 〈◊〉 the ●●●lyard 409 Inscription over the Savoy gate 445 Inscription upon the Standard Cheap 402 Inscription under Saint Peter's pic●●●e 8●0 Inscription under the picture of Q Elizabeth 392 Inscription in Saint Peter's Church Cornwall Lond. 413 john King 219.465 john Lord Clifford 574 Io●n fair maid ●f Kent 4●9 joan Queen 210 jocelin 291 john de Pich●m Earl of Harford 541 john ●e strange, Lord St●ange 530. Io 〈…〉 S●●ange ibidem john 〈◊〉 Snepey Bishop of Rochester ●13 john de ●empo●ibus 595 johnson 4 johnston 198.308 & alib● john Earl of Somerset 2●●. Marquess Dorset john de Dreux 387 joiner 675 joice Lady Tiptost 554.765 jordan le Brune 655 joseph of Arytnathea 58.60 I●s●●ne 549 I●eipre Will Earl of Kent 289 I●●lesse 472 Isabella Countess of Arundel 864 Isabella Countess of Athol 213 Isakeas 235 I●●●ham 610 Iseley 235. 59● ●sl●p Archbishop 223.224 Ab●●t 488 I●●hi●gham 427 I●ham 〈◊〉 Bishop 311 I●d 323 judges fined for bribery 367 ●uga 6●1 julius Caesar 397.724 Ready Death his sword taken from him 420 jullaber 280. misnumbered. justus Archbishop 247.308 Iwin 134 Ivy 855 K KAtherine Queen 475.514 Katherine Duchess of Norfolk 419 K●●ynewhat 164 K bull 618 Kell 825 Kelley the Alchumist 45.46 K●m●is 731 Kempe Bishop 228.274.360.361.752 Kem●ig 806 Kemdall 599 Kenneth King 459 Kenulph king 177 Kent●shmen throw off the Norman yoke 346 Kentish yeomanry 347 Kent 500 Kenton 438 K●nwalch king 177 Kerdeston 125 Keryell 265 Ketleby 538 Kill 641 Kilwarby Archbishop 306.388 Kinesbourgh Castle 596 Kinnugale 807 Kingston 114.769 King 610 Kirkham 695 Kir●on 534.487 Ki●● Bishop 539 K●apton 800 Knever Lord Chancellor 855 Lord Kn●uet, ibid. Hen. 856. Kneuet 855 541.783.815 Knevinton 601 Knivet 657 ● knife instead of a Seal 631 Knight 677.417.435 Knighton 827 Knowles, or Knolles 402.403.436 L LAberius durus 280 Lacie 332.659 744 Lacie Earl of Lincoln 365 366 Lagisse 675▪ Layton 109.104 Laynham 750 misnumbered. Laken 333 Lambard Will. peramb. of Kent, avouched in many places. Lamb 754 Lambert 252 Lamberne 655 Lancaster 283 654 Landward 606 Langleys 267.628.634 Langton Archbishop 219. 202.3●8 Laud Will. Bishop of London, Epistle to the Reader, and pag. 383 Langham Archbishop 389.479. Langham 444 Lanfranke Archbishop 259.291.785 Lark 827 Large 628 Lathell 389 Lathum 651.652 Laurence Abbot 417 Launde 410 Laune 263 Laverocke 524 Laurence Archbishop 242.245 Lawless Court 605 Law 324 Laxisfield 720 leech 625 Lee 548.727.103.104 Leeds 276 Legh 67● Leg 329 Legare 263 Leyborne 259 287. julian Gountesle of Huntingdon 260 Leyton 103 Leicester 368 Leicester Archbishop of Smirna 806 Leyland john his laborious journey: his New years gift to King Henry his books▪ his death, and burial: 688.689.690.691.692 Lempster 404 Le Neve Epistle to the Reader, 678 859. & alibi Leonell Duke of Clarence 740, 74 Lhewelin Prince 650 Letters A Letter from Gregory the Great to Mellitus 711 Letters transcribed out of the original. A Letter from Edward the fourth to the Prior and Covent of jews in Sussex, which I had from my very loving friend Henry Lily, from whom I have also had many use full Collections. 77 Letters from Henry the eight to his Nobility and others 8●. 86 80 A Letter from Tho. Duke of Norfolk, and George Vscount Ro●hford to Secretary Cromwell 89 A Letter from Secretary Cromwell to james the fifth King of Scotland, 9●. the page wrong numbered. A Letter from Nicholas Shaxton Bishop of Salisbury, to Secretary Cromwell 101 A Letter from john Fisher Bishop of Rochester to king Henry the eight 501 A Letter from the said Bishop to th● high Court of Pa●liament 503 A Letter from Thomas Archbishop of Canterbury to Secretary Cromwell 507 A part of a Letter from Sir Thomas More to Secretary Cromwell 508 A Letter from Richard Layton to Secretary Cromwell 527 Leventhorpe 549 Leveticks 265 Lewis 435 Lewcas 779 Lewkenor 4●9 Lichfield 408 Lidgate 727.728.729.730 Lighart, or Hart Bishop 795 Liggon 744 Lie 332 Lily 369 383 498. 58● Limsey Lord 543 Limsey 114. 82● Linyker 370 Lind 237.282.581 Lindsey 456 Lincoln 605, 760 Linge 824 Lingeston 72 Lineal descent of the Lord of Clare 737.738, 739 Lin●●r● 370 Linton 373 Linne 288 Linsted 280, 815 Lion 610, 627, 406 De Lira 816 Lisla 274 Lisle 372.274.744 Liston 627 Litlebury 544 Lithbury 368 Littlington 487 Littons 707 Litihey 296 Lockley 581 Lodnes 825 Loft 326 Lollard 140 London 802.809 London Diocese 350.351.352.353. City ibid. Londham 750 London Chatter by King William 362 Long 263.525.591 Longspee Earl of Salisbury 360 Longstrother 599 Loney 439 Longland 72 Lora Countess of Leicester ●60 Lotun 744 Lovel Knight of the Garter 427 Lovel 811.368.380.381 Love 807 Lovekin 410 Loveton 367 Louvain 629 Lovericke 269 Loveloch 750. misnumbered. Lowthe 537 Low Bishop 314 Lucy 336.337.777 Lucas 544.606 Lucy Lady Prioress 621.622.623 Lucius king 59.181.413.414 Lud king 385 Lulthard Bishop 241 Luling Abbot 252 Lumaford 655 Lombard 333 Lumley 212 Lunston ●63 Luther 400 M MAckwilliams 65● Mableston 114 Maynards' 569.629 Maydenston 218 Maidston 285 Maldon 610 Malcolm king 641 Malherbe 819 Malmayns 294 296 Maleweyn 275 Malefant 435 Maledictions 100 121.140.141.219 512.340.764.816. Mallet 675 Mandevill 266.534.547.567.568 Manny, or Many 432 Manning 820 Manors E. of Rutland 428 George, Robert, Oliver, Antho. Rich, john, Elis. Kath. Elea. ibid. Manston 2●8. 267 Mansby 750 Mannoke 778 Mansell 272.273.274 mantel 436 Manteley 805 Manwood 260.264 Margaret Duchess of Clarence, Marg. Countess of Rich. 211.371.433.476.477 Marmion 213 Mary Queen restores Religions houses dissolved 115 Mary and joan the wives of king H. the 4. 210 Marry Queen of France 726 Marlowe 405 Martin 110.282.316.332.696 Martin Marprelate 56 Maries 280 Maryms 238 Marshal 411.442.443 March 863 Marney 657 Martill 770 Marci 318.429 Marmion 213 Marble stone at Westminster 459 marshal Earl of Penbroke 441.443 Martia Proba 517 Martirxet 807 De Marisco 244 Masters 105 Mashingbred 114 Mascall Bishop 437 Matilda Queen 482 Maud Queen 424.278.453 Mauritius Bishop 550 Marolfe 676 May Epistle to the Reader & alibi Medhurst 296 Maximilian Emperor 282 Medefend 766 Melit 411 Mellitus Archbishop 246 710.712 Mellis 721 Melton Archbishop 792 Melanchton invited into England by K. Hen. the eight 89 A Memento for Mortality 492 Mepham Archbishop 2●2. 330 de Merch Lord 547 Merton Bishop 313 Mercer 266 Mer● 801 Merchants of the Staple, Merchant defined 340 341 Merley Lord of Morpath 291 Messager ●88 Meawtis 524 Micolt 406 Middleton Bish. 791 Middleton 538 Milles 677 Mild 650 Mildred the holy Virgin and Saint 262. 25● Milner 676 Milling Bishop of Heref 481 Milham 806 Mileham 809 Milbourne 390 Miluerton 438 Min●e 695 Mint in Dunwich 720 Mirsin 379 Mistelbroke 538 Mitre and Sandals granted 253.256 Moigne 630 Molyneux 234.700 Montfiche● 654.597 Montacute E. of Salisbury 437 Monsieur 784 Montacute E. of Salisbury 2●3 Montacute 863 Monuments in general, vide Discourse cap. 1. Monuments Funeral vide Discourse cap. 2 Monox 598 Morisons 591 Morsted 397 More 398.378.824.674.505.506.507.522.523 Morieux 822 Mortimer 743.508.815.863 Morley 864.804.805 Mordant Lo. 656 Morrant 317 Morgan Bishop 433 Morton Archbishop 230 Morton 238 Moron 138 Moruill 101.202 Monthault 865 Monthermer 740 Motenden 238 Moun 213 Mount 90 Mounthaults ●60 Mountgomery 609 Mountchensy 757 Monadeford 857 Mountfort E. of Leicester 303 Mowbray 570.830.431.674.860 Mowbrayes' Lion 832 Mulse 72 Mulmutius K. 181.441. Murell 695 Muschamp 695 N NArburgh 820 Narboone ●76 Naup●on 756 Neck●am 571 Ne●●on 806 Neaford 823 Ne●●●s Duke of Loegtia 419 Nevil 251, 329.371.601.760.783. Nevil kill Lion 644 Newport Bishop 363. Newport 355.548.701 Newenton 624 Newenham 72 Newborne 742 Newmarch 542 Newhawe 732 Nichols 624 Nix Bishop 796.869 No man's Land 707 None 811 Norbury 338.339 Norbery 209.364 Norbert 139 Norwich 783.806.865 Norwich City 808 Nordell 412 Norrice 514 Norrys 447 Norwood 281, 282, 283, 284, 317 Norton 281, 282, 283▪ 500 ●o●aan the son of Enot 750 ●●●folke 825 〈◊〉 630 〈◊〉 Bishop 364 〈◊〉 Archbishop 24● Noth●●●●as 252 Not●●gham 822 Nudegare 114 O AN Obits 365 Occleve 489 Odo Archbishop 214 Offa king 173, 174, 554 Oga●d 810.811 Ol●ue 380 Oldcastle 265, 328 Oliver 624 Oliver 816 Ornament for Christ's Image 404 Osbert 766.769 Oundeley 586 Outred 650 Owen 681 Ouerall Bishop 870 Hour 330 Oxeney 429 Oxford Bishop 789 Oxinden 437 P PAbeham 792 Pace 233.540 Paddington 699 Paddy 677 Pagrave 805 pain 412, 529, 661 Painter 286 Payname 333 Paycock 617, 618 Paynard 699 Payferer 238 Pakenham 651.656 Pakington 576, 583 Pall what 233 Palgrave 439 Palmer 275, 331 Parish what 620.176 Parr 109.276.371 Parker Archbishop 228, 231 Parker 526 Parkers Ancestors of the Lord Morley 548 Parkhurst Bishop 870 Parsons the jesuit 144 Parson charactered by Chaucer, 63 Partridge 379 Partridge 752 Pasley 270.338 Pasmer 599 Passelew 644, 645 Paston 805 Patrington Bishop of Saint David's, 437 Paullane 604 Paulinus Archbishop 309.310.868 Pawlet marquis of Winton 103 Pawlet 756 Pawson 393 Pearson Doctor 864 Perch 750 Peche 234 Peckham Archbishop 220.331 Peckham 259.326. Peacock 582 Pedlars what 342 Peyton 390. 73●.776 Pelhams' 436 Pelegrim 370 Pemberton 391▪ 114 Pen 592 Penson 687.677 Penyman 807 Pennington 238 Penchester 330 Pencherst 259.319 Penda King 761 Pepard 319 Peperking 603 Percy Bishop 793 Percy 674 Percy Hen. Earl of Northum. 536 Persecution 552.553.116 Pert 601 perrer's 651 Perient 594 Pernell the proud 777 Perpoint 861 Peris 401 Peter 112.256.577.648.642.356.173.445.641 642.250 Petre Lord 601 Peter Lord of Rickinghill 828 Pette 324.110 Petty Canons 373 Petle 331 Petition 423.585 Peverell 639 Pewes in Churches fit to be reform Phelippe Lord Bardolfe 78● Philip 753.261.435.284 Philippe Q. 468 Phellip 721 Philipot Epistle to the Reader 266.678.331. & alibi. Picheford 448 Pickering 399 Pierle 338 Piers 650.549 Pygot 806. 86●.804.699 Pike 416 822 Pykering 807 Pilgrimages 332.111.860.172.131.202.343. & alibi Pyllys 855 Pymichum 497 Pinchon 656 Pynere 543 Piriton 372 Pirke 625 Pie 111 Pissing against Tombs 47. against Churches 373. unlawful and impious. Plague 222.805.862. A prayer for the deliverance of certain Carmes out of purgatory which died of the plague, ibid. Plaize or Plas 654.752.850.861 playferes, misprinted, read Playters, 762.763.784 Plebania what 180 Plessys 370 Plantagenet 587.443.638.726.211.555.748.627. & alibi Plomer 854 Pluralities of Benefices 71.72 Pluckley 291.293 Plumsted 826 Poynes 544 Poynings 114.282.269.721 Polter 596 Pole 788.759 Pond 279 Pope Alexander 170 Pope his Bull of dispensation with Simony, usury, etc. Discourse cap. 17 Pope his pardons ibid. Pope his Bull of general pardon in the year of jubily, the price to be given for it, Discourse cap. 17. Pope his indulgences to certain Churches and Altars 121 Pope his power abrogated Discourse cap. 13. Pope his absolute power, his covetousness, tergiversation and tyranny 304 Pope his Bulls, Discourse cap. 12. His Bull defined ibid. His Bulls rejected ibid. His Bull for Bishop Fleming ibid. Pope Bulls transcribed out of their originals 141.204.340.559.560.857 Pope 112 Portgrave 362 Porter▪ 700. De Portis 816 Po●kin 324 Pots 861 Poultney 371.380 Poveyn 258 Powlet 103.647 Powley 780 Prayer upon a grave-stone 641 Prat 420 Preve 337 Preston 368.683 Price 625 Priest 542 Prince 803 Prior of Crouched Friars 423 Priors Aliens suppressed 338.339 Privileges many granted to S. Alban 578 Privileges to kings and Heralds 685 Prickill 368 Proclamation for preserving of Monuments 52 Prophet 209 Prophecies 358.496 Pulham 805.806.863 Q QVarrell between the Canons of Leedes and the Monks of Saint Albon 287. Between the Monks of Canterbury and Rochester 348 349. Between the Townsmen and the Abbot and Covent of Saint edmond's Bury 723. Between the Monks of Norwich and the Citizens 791. Qua●efeld 750 Quoyte 111 R RAbing 263 Radcliffe 635: 608.804.809 Radcliffe Earls of Sussex 635.636.634.676 Radcliffe Knight of the Garter 809 Radulfe de Torneio 816 Radulph de Diceto 355 Rahere 433.435 Ramrige 557 Ramsey 697 Raining 700 Raysh 209 Ranyngham 761 Ranishaw 581 Raymund 807 Ralph de Pauliaco 815 Ralph Lord Basset 542 Ralph Lo. Stafford 530 Ralph Lo. Limsey 543 Rauson 113.114 Raven 677.758 Read 276.802.585.327 784.701 Readmund 252 Redmane 526.419 Redman Bishop 870 Redham 816 Redmeld 772 Redwald K: 777 Redred 750 Reducr● 829 Rees 865 Regham 631 Reynolds Archbishop 221 Relics 143.160.261.279.259.301.316.314.714.724.858 Religion 49 Religious orders Discourse cap. 16. Several ways to enrich themselves Discourse cap. 17. Rendlesham 753 Rendleshham the Court of the East Angle Kings 777 Renunciation of the Crown by K. Ed. the second 485 Renham 288 Rentha K. 7 Rice 290 Rich E. of War. 606.627 Rich E. of Hol. 525 Rich Lord Chancellor of England 103.606 Rich S. Edm. Arcbishop 303 Rich 401 Richard de Gravesend Bishop 610 Richard Archbishop 217 Richard de Ware Abbot 485 Richard de Clare Earl of Gloucester 322 Richard the third King 520.521 830 831 Richard the first King 318.319.642.644.204 Richard the second K. 318.319.471 Richold 859 Ricula Q. 451 Rider 536 Ridston 390 Rikhill 312 Ryley 440.681 Ringleis 267 Riplingham 389 Risby 422 Robert Earl of Dreux 204 Robert de Losinga 70.788. Robards 111 Robert de Say 443 Robert de Bradgar● 291 Robert de Bellemont Earl of Leicester ●19 Ro●. de Vallibus 82. Robert a boy martyred 7●● Rob. de Bello. Abbot 256 Robins 58 Robinson 529 Robsert 7●0 Roche B●shop 76● Roche 6● Rocheste▪ Diocese 308. City ibid. 367 Rochfort ●1● 6●1 Rockwood 612 Ro● of Rowe● 429 49● Roer King of Arms 661 Roger Abbot 255 256 Roger● 〈◊〉 54● Roger and Sy▪ Hermi●● 5●7 Ro●er Bishop 359. Roger derived 716 Ro●●●s 114 Ro●●sia de Vere 54● Roy●on 780 604 Roys 814 Rokeden 613 Rood of Grace at Boxley 289 Roos or Ro● Lo. 212.813.831 Rosse 443 Roper Lord Tenham 338. Marge●y ibid. Rote 524 Rosabart Tirri● 804 Roscelyn 815 Rose 806 Rosew 815 Rouse 596.422 Rouceby 72 Rowenna 415 Rowsse ●82. 783 Rowlat 569 Ruyg Bishop 869 Rushbroke 8●2 Russell 114.782.591 Rust 276 Rustandus Legate 363 Ruthall Bishop of Durham 484 Rustwyne 550 S SAbernes 423 Sackuile Ed. E. of Dorset 613 Sackuile 857.861.318.319 429 Sackford 781 Sadington 543 Sadleir 594 Saham 368 Saint Eppalet a tamer of Colts 545 S. Clare 150 Saint Basill 131 Saint Alban 552. Foundation of Saint Alban, a catalogue of the Abbots there 557 Saint Benet 132 S. Al●●n● batt●l● 705 706.573 S. Robert 725 S. Chad Bishop 713 Saint ●●igid 148 Saint Augustine 132 Saint C●les Bowie 539 Saint Hi●●er●a 599 Saint Francis 133 S. Augustine's Cont. founded 239. A catalogue of the Abbots there 250 Saint German 583 Saint Hugh 1●4 Saint Dominick 124 S. Paul● Lond. founded 354 Saint Bernard 136 Saint john 389.318 S. George king at arms 687. Epistle to the Reader, & alib●. Saint George ibid. & alibi. Saint George Aloreda & Mabell Nuns 158 Saint Gebon 784 Saint Nicholas 265 S. ●eger o● Sellinger 284 285 Say 550.551.825.866.443.330 531 S●●er de Quincy 615.811 Salisbury 2●6 Salhouse 526 Sal●●on Bishop 791 86● Solomon 41● Samplon 783 Sanctuaries 180.181.182.445.491 Sampol 529 Sand●●rd 348 Sa●dys, Epistle to the Reader, & alibi. Sandwich 264 290.270 Sanny 533 S●●●ge 1●6. 4●5.281.284 S●●ill 313.281.538.443 S●●ham 750 S●●ton 609 S●●le Lord 861 S●●●●ler Bishop 870 Scapulary wha● 139 Scardeburgh 524 Schakell 484 Scotland Abbot 253 Scots never conquered 7 Scots high spirited, no people more valiant 460 Sc●● 269.282.637.277.599.800 Scroop alias Bradley Bishop 768.769 Scroop 335.621.284.588 Seabroke 551 Sea●gile 647 Sebba king 356 Sebert king 451.717 Seberitha 263 Sectaries 40 Segar king at arms 687. Segraue 433.270.775 Semar 625 Seman 855 Seymour Duke of Somerset 514.515.378 Seymour 114 S●nt●ler 336 Senitlow 817 Selden●● 1. Epistle to the Reader 176. & alibi. Selby 488 Selling 237.259 Septvaus 234.279 238 265.295 Serby 678 Sevenoke 324 Se●burgh Queen 283. 263.24● Shantlow 731 Shandlow 753 Sharp 330.296 Shaxton Bishop 101 She●f 802 Sheldon 601 Sheluings 238 Shelton 864.863.744.813.782 Sherwing Bishop 791 Sherburne 526 Sherington 378 700 Shildgate 859 Shirton 288 Shrines 199.202.554.380.381 Sicilius King 517 Sidney Rob. E. of Leicester 320. Sir Philip & alij ibid. Sidney 783 Si●ley 316 Sigebert 717.767 Sivelster Ab. 255 Simonds 826.857.537.640 Simony 70 Simperling 744 Singing first used in Churches 251 Synod national 67 Siricius Archbishop 252 Ska●delow 865 Skevington 534 Skelion Poet Laureate 497 Skipwith 579.580 Sk●damor 864 Sledda K. 451 Staple 655 Slaske 675 S●●ersholl 280 false printed Smeton 514 Smith 110.731.732.568.692.330 Smoke penny 176 Snayth 317 Snokeshall 606. Somerton 805 Sou●bout 133 Sorewell 333 Spelman 658.404.820.821 Spelman Hen Epistle to the Reader. His distich up ●n the dedication of a Church 845. His Icenia pag. ult. Spenser Bishop 793.794.869 Spenser Lord 677. false printed Spence, Spenser 403.727.491.750 Spittle Croft 432 Spring 767 Sodington 805 S●ole 28 Sordich 427 Soreth 438 Soterley 80● Southwell 109.781 Southworth 515 Speight 489 Squire 338 Stafford Hum. E. of Devon. 544 Stafford Ed. Duke of Buckingham 419 Stafford 4●5. 228.323.322 Standish 369 Stanley 731.651 Stanley George Knight of the Garter, Lord S●range 407.530. Stanley Thomas Earl of Derby 407.477.687. Derby house ibid. Stanley William Earl of Derby 531 Stanley james Lord Strange 53●. Vide Le Strange. Stanley Thomas Bishop of Man 521 530 Stanton 674 Staple what 342 Stapleton 861 Stamford ●75 Starnfield 290 Stalham 806 Stark●y 427 Shatham 390 Stephen King 277. 27● Steward Henry Lord Darle 539 Styword 815 S●igand Archbishop 346.785 Stoarer 806 Stone 336 Stonehenge 317 Story 699 Stoke 555.567 Stokes●ey Bishop 361 Stondon 567 Stotevile 779 Stourton 526 Straw 745 Stratford Archbishop 222 Stratford Bishop 425 straddling 331 Stration 325.368 Le Strange 822.823.530.865. Vide Stanley. Street 404 Strayler 577 Sudbury Archbishop 224.225.743.744 Suliard 779.780 Supremacy 80 Sutton 605.391.818.114.433.528.752 Surrender of religious houses 106 Sumner 547 Suanden 526 Swan 263 Sweden K. 677 Swein de Essex 693.606 Swinton 212 Swindon 657 Swidelin king 777 Swynford 661, 726 T TAdiacus Archbishop 309 Tailor 857 Talboys 840 Talbot 805, 828, ●43 Talbot Earl of Shrewsbury 372. the Terror of France 380 Talbot courageous 822, 823 Talburgh 604 Taleworth 649 Tat●e●s●ll 338 Ta●win Archbishop 249 Tedder 477 Tendering 783, 640, 744, 772, 776 Temple Church, Templars 71, 269, 441, 719, 747 Temple Court 719 Terrill 779 Terrell 641 Terrye 329 Thakley 630 Tha●●e● Isle 266 Thanye 656 Theobald Archbishop 217, 743, 744, 545 Theobald 754 The●dore Archbishop 248, 298 Theodred Bishop 714 Thewrs 732 Therket 517 Thimur or Thu●nor 261, 262 Thynne 228, 677 Th●rieby Bishop 869 Thomas Earl of Lancaster 366 Thomas 260, 333, 677 Thomas Duke of Clarence 211 Thomas de Ewer 370 Thompson 677, 681 Tomson 111 Thorley 526 Thorndon 817 Thorn 257, 261, 276, 443, 815 Thornell 114 Thorpe 209, 391, 803, 806 Thurkeby 825 Thurstine Archbishop 305 Tie 784, 805 Ties 372 Tyler 693, 266. Idol of Clowns 745 Tillis 805 Tilney a man of high stature, sixteen Knights of the Tilneys successively 818, Tilney 401, 814 Tymislow or Trimslow 542 Tymperley 780, 765, 766 Tiptoth or Tiptost 750 Tiptost Earl of Worcester 411 Terrell 114, 657, 658, 609 Titinylks what 94 Tobias Bishop 311 Toding 76● Todenham 818 Took 283, 296 Tombert 761 Tonge 274, 275, 675 Tony 586 Topperfeld 656 Torner 779 Totl●herst 324 Torynton 586 Town 422 Towneshend 811, 812 Tracy 202 Traps 392 Traheyron 676 Travers 134 Tre●wel 601, 677 Troy's 7● Trumpington 760 Trussell 238.485.857 Tubman 676 Tudensa 418 Tudeham 8●9 turbervile 582 Turbus Bishop 789 Turkill 339 Turk 699 Turman 586 Turnham 318, 319 Turnant 535 Turnot 586 Turlepin 296 Turpine 676 Twesden 296 V De Valence Will. Earl of Penbroke 479 Valence 238.721 Valonies' 235.275 734 Vaodicia Queen 708.709 Verdun 288 Vernon 552.821 Vere Earl of Oxford & alii 284.367.418.613.614.615.616.617.619.620 621.630.631.656.831.832 855.750 Veres Sir Francis Vere 713. Horatio Lord ibid. ufford Archbishop 222 Archdecon 224 Vfford Earls of Suffolk 753.754.755, Maud his wife, ibid. ufford 826, 750, 720.804 Viene 429 Vincent 77.667. Epistle to the Reader. Vynter 545 Virgius 65 De Vise 290, 29● Visions and strange incredible stories 245, 298, 300, 333, 343, 344, 345, 199, 712, & alibi. Vitalis 487 Vmfrevill 284, 212 Vnderell 779 Vnton 814 Voloyns 7●● Vortimer King 316, 51● Vows 1ST Vpton 27● Upon the Arms of 〈◊〉▪ and Doctor Furent 587 Urswick 5●8, 90● Vuedal 863, 8●● W WAchesham ●●● Wayth 814 Way●e 6●1 Wake 542 W●kering Bishop 7●4 W●ll 675 W●●degraue 747, 757, 758, 744, 778 Walsingham 235, 266, 50●, 5●●, 806, 8●8 Walter de Susfield Bishop 790 Walter at Lea 548 Waltham Bishop 482 Waldefe 586 Waldby Archbishop 481 Walkesare 822 Walworth 266 781.296 waleys 331, 379, 461 Wallingford 556 Walkesley 290 Walden 315, 336, 627 Walden Bishop 4●4 Wallop 89 Waning 737 Wancy 731 Wande●ford 7●0 Wangdeford ●32 De Wanton Bishop 790, 869, 766 Warren 209, 337, 792, 823 Ward 110▪ 547, 814 Waring a Conjurer 45 Wa●hesham 750. misnumbered. Beware 2●● Warbeck 2●● Warham Archbishop 232. ●47 Warcopp 676 Warnys 803 Warner 809, 814 Warrant for Commissioners to take Surrender of Religious houses 1●3 Waster 674.678 Water 8●7 Water's 675▪ 797 Warerton 209 Watervill 31● Waterhouse 38● Watton 317 Webb 296 Wedderby 804 Wedyrlye 865 Weever 269, 393, 550.340▪ 436. Weever River 281 Weyland 368.744.753.720 Wellar 72 Weld 259 Welden 389 Welington 784 Welshmen ●●●tie 656 Wendall 238 Wendover Bishop 333, 338.349, 482 Wendling 824 Wenlocke 486 Wentworth 284, 429 Wernod 252 West 114.385.693.744 Westbroke 587 Westborne 745 Westby 583 Weston knight of the Garter, Baron Neyland, Lord Treasurer, 618 619 Weston 113.114.430.514.599.769.826 Westcliffe 701 Withered king 242 We●iuen 403 We●●all 809 whaley Parish Plebania 180 Whatvile 429 Whathamsted 562, 563, 564, 565, 566, 567, 574 White Bishop ●71. White 227.817 Whiting 807 Whitington 407.408 Wyatt 327.852, 853 Wyborne 659 Wyborough 742 Wychingham 804.805.807 Wickwane Archbishop 306 Wydo Abbot 253 Widevile E. Rivers 493 Wickham Bishop 71 Wye 444 Wire 179 Wigmore 276 Wight 805 Wightman the Heretic 55 Wi●exnes 721 Wyld 625 Wilkin 209 Willoughby Earl of Vandosme 327 Willoughby 326.419.612.754 William Norman Bishop 362 William Rufus king 216.254.786 Will. a Scottish Baker Sainted 315 Wilcocke 296 Wilford 237 Wiltshire 334 willbe 750. misnumbered Wilton 802 Wingfeld 334.720.755.756.759.781.782. Wingenhall 861 Wynkepery 742 Windham 796.802 Winterborne 370 Wingham Bish. 359. Wingham 281 Winter 114 Winmarke Baron 603 Winchelsey Archbishop 221 Windsor 489.529.674 Wiseman 657 With 85 Wittor 580 Wittlesey Archbishop 224 Wives not to live with their husbands in the houses of Cathedral or Collegiate Churches 184 Woderow 863 Wodderington 599 Wolberghe 699 Woluen 582 Wolsey Cardinal 104.540.703, 704 752 Wood 238.327.389: 610.620 Woodbridge 753 Woodford 335 Woodcock 393.693 Woodhouse 805.818.864 Woodvill 286 Woodokes 280 Woodnesbergh 236 Worsted 807 Worsley 368 Wotton Lord Baron 289 Wotton Rich. Nich. ibid. Wotton 286 Wraw 69●. 745 Wray 4●0 Wred 29● Wrexworth 674.678 W●nchesley Io. & alii 661.662.686 Wriothes●ey principal king of Arms 661.674 Wryothesley Earl of Southampton Lord Chancellor 661 Wryothesley 676.678 Wrongey 817 Wroxham 807 Wulfricke 252.253 Wye 444 Y YArd ●54 Yardherst 296 Yardley 324 Yarford 401 Yaxley 732, 780 Yeluerton 821.822 Yerdford 695 Yngham or Ingham 803.817▪ 861 Ynglos 826 Yo● 417 Young 110 394.448.675.677 York 358 Z ZIburgh 806 Zorke 818 Zouch 825.826 FINIS. A DISCOURSE OF Funeral Monuments, etc. CHAP. I. Of Monuments in general. A Monument is a thing erected, made, or written, for a memorial of some remarkable action, fit to be transferred to future posterities And thus generally taken, all religious Foundations, all sumptuous and magnificent Structures, Cities, Towns, Towers, Castles, Pillars, Pyramids, Crosses, Obelisks, Amphitheatres, Statues, and the like, as well as Tombs and Sepulchers, are called Monuments. Now above all remembrances (by which men have endeavoured, even in despite of death to give unto their Fame's eternity) for worthiness and continuance, books, or writings, have ever had the pre-eminence. Marmora Maeonij vincunt monimenta libelli; Vivitur ingenio, caetera mortis erunt. The Muse's works stone-monuments out last; 'Tis wit keeps life, all else death will down cast. Horace thus concludes the third book of his lyric poesy. Exegi monimentum are perennius, Regalique situ, etc. A monument than brass more lasting, I, Then Princely Pyramids in site more high Have finished, which neither fretting showers, Nor blustering winds, nor flight of years, and hours, Though numberless, can raze. I shall not die Wholly; nor shall my best part buried lie Within my Grave. And Martial lib. 10. Ep. 2. thus speaks of books and writings. Reader my wealth, whom when to me Rome gave; Nought greater to bestow (quoth she) I have. By him ingrateful Lethe thou shalt fly, And in thy better part shalt never die. Wild figtrees rend Messalla's marbles off; Chrispus half horses the bold Carters scoff; Writings, no age can wrong, nor thieving hand, Deathless alone those monuments will stand. — My books are read in every place. Lib. 8. ep. 3. And when Licinius, and Messalla's high Rich marble Towers in ruined dust shall lie, I shall be read, and strangers, every where, Shall to their farthest homes my verses bear. Lib. 10. Epig. 11. And in another Ep. thus much of his books. 'Tis not the City only doth approve My muse, or idle ears my verses love; The rough Centurion, where cold frosts o'erspread The Scythian fields, in war my books are read. My lines are sung in Britain far remote; And yet my empty purse perceives it not. What deathless numbers from my pen would flow? What wars would my Pierian Trumpet blow? If, as Augustus now again doth live, So Rome to me would a Maecenas give. In like manner Ovid gives an endless date to himself, and to his Metamorphosis in these words. In conclu. li. ult. jamque opus exegi, etc. And now the work is ended, which, Jove's rage, Nor Fire, nor Sword, shall raze, nor eating Age; Come, when it will, my Deaths uncertain hour, Which only of my body hath a power: Yet shall my better part transcend the sky; And my immortal name shall never die: For wheresoever the Roman Eagles spread Their conquering wings, I shall of all be read. And if we Prophets truly can divine, I in my living Fame shall ever shine. S. jerom in like manner, in one of his Epistles, writeth of the perpetuity of a funeral Elegy, which he made himself to the dear memory of his beloved Fabiola, who was buried in the city of Bethlem; not because the said Elegy was cut or engraven upon her Sepulchre, but for that he had written it down in one of his volumes, according to these his own words following. Exegi monimentum tuum aere perennius, quod nulla destruere possit vetustas; incîdi Eulogium Sepulchro tuo, quod huic volumini subdidi, ut quocunque noster Sermo pervenerit, te laudatam; te in Bethlem conditan Lector agnoscat. Varus Tribune of Rome, hath been and will be longer remembered by Marshal's Epigram, lib. 10. ep. 26. then ever he could have been by any funeral monument, which is lately made thus to speak English. Varus, which as Rome's Tribune didst command An hundred men, renowned in Egypt land: Now as a stranger Ghost thou dost remain On Nilus' shore, promised to Rome in vain. We could not dew with tears thy dying face, Nor thy said funeral flames with odours grace; Yet in my verse eternised shalt thou be, Of that false Egypt cannot cousin thee. Thus Lucan lib. 9 of his own verse and Caesar's victory at Pharsalia. O great and sacred work of poesy, Thou freest from fate, and giv'st eternity To mortal wights; but, Caesar envy not Their living names; if Roman Muses ought, May promise thee, whilst Homer's honoured, By future times shalt thou, and I, be read; No age shall us with dark oblivion stain, But our Pharsalia ever shall remain. Books then and the Muse's works are of all monuments the most permanent; for of all things else there is a vicissitude, a change both of cities and nations: as we may thus read in Ovid's Metamorphosis, lib. 15. For this we see in all is general, Some nations gather strength, and others fall. Troy rich and powerful, which so proudly stood, That could for ten years spend such streams of blood; For buildings only her old ruins shows, For riches, Tombs, which slaughtered fires enclose, Sparta, Mycenae, were of Greece the flowers; So Cecrops city, and Amphion's Towers: Now glorious Sparta lies upon the ground; Lofty Mycenae hardly to be found. Of Oedipus his Thebes what now remains; Or of Pandions' Athens, but their names? Thebes, 1. Silvester, Transl. Babel, Rome, these proud heaven daring wonders, Lo under ground in dust and ashes lie, For earthly kingdoms, even as men do die. Bellay in his ruins of Rome, translated by Spenser, makes this demonstration or show of that city, to the strange country man or traveller: Thou stranger, which for Rome in Rome here seekest; And nought of Rome in Rome perceivest at all, These same old walls, old arches, which thou seest, Old palaces, is that which Rome men call. Behold what wreak, what ruin, and what waste, And how that she, which with her mighty power Tamed all the world, hath tamed herself at last: The prey of Time, which all things doth devour. Rome now of Rome, is the only funeral, And only Rome, of Rome hath victory. Ne ought save Tiber hastening to his fall Remains of all: O world's inconstancy. That which is firm, doth flit and fall away, And that is flitting, doth abide and stay. It is a vanity for a man to think to perpetuate his name and memory by strange and costly great Edifices, for Not sumptuous Pyramids to skies upreard; Nor Elean Jove's proud Fane, Proper● lib. 3. El. 2. which heaven compeerd, Nor the rich fortune of Mausoleus' Tomb, Are privileged from death's extremest doom: Or fire, or storms, their glories do abate, Or by age shaken, fall with their own weight. We have many examples here in England of the small continuance (as I may so call it) of magnificent strong buildings, by the sudden fall of our religious houses, of which a late nameless versifier hath thus written: What sacred structures did our Elders build, Wherein Religion gorgeously sat decked? Now all thrown down, Religion exiled, Made Brothell-houses, had in base respect, Or ruined so that to the viewers eye, In their own ruins they entombed lie: The marble urns of their so zealous Founders Are digged up, and turned to sordid uses; Their bodies are quite cast out of their bounders Lie vn●interr'd. O greater what abuse is? Yet in this later age we now live in, This barbarous act is neither shame nor sin. Of walls, towers, castles, crosses, forts, rampiers, towns, cities, and such like monuments, here in great Britain, which by age, wars, or the malignity of the times, are defaced, ruined, or utterly subverted, you may read in learned Camden: only thus much out of famous Spenser, personating the Genius of Verlame, or Verulam, sometimes a city near to S. Albon. Ruins of Time. I was that City which the garland wore Of Britain's pride, delivered unto me, By Roman victors, which it won of yore; Though nought at all but ruins now I be. And lie in mine own ashes as ye see. Verlame I was, what boots it that I was, Sith now I am but weeds and wasteful grass? Another English muse (now living) under the name of Watling, M. ●rayton, P●l. Song. xuj. one of the four imperial high ways sings thus of the ruins of this city. Thou saw'st when Verlam once her head aloft did rear, Which in her cinders now lies sadly buried here: With Alabaster, Tuch, and Porphery adorned, When (well-near) in her pride great Troynovant she scorned. Likewise upon this forgotten City a nameless late writer hath made this Epitaph. Stay thy foot that passest by, Here is wonder to descry, Churches that interred the dead, Here themselves are sepulchred; Houses, where men slept and waked, Here in ashes vnderraked. In a word to allude; Here is corn where once Troy stood; Or more fully home to have, Here's a City in a grave. Reader wonder think it then, Cities thus would die like men: And yet wonder think it none, Many Cities thus are gone. But I will conclude this Chapter with these two stanzas following, taken out of Spensers' poem aforesaid, speaking of the vanity of such Princes who (Absalon like) think to gain a perpetuity after death, by erecting of pillars, and such like monuments, to keep their names in remembrance▪ when as it is only the Muse's works which give unto man immortality. In vain do earthly Princes then, in vain, Seek with Pyramids, to heaven aspired; Or huge Colossuses, built with costly pain; Or brazen pillars, never to be fired; Or Shrines, made of the metal most desired, To make their memories for ever live: For how can mortal immortality give. For deeds do die, how ever nobly done, And thoughts of men do in themselves decay, But wise words taught in numbers for to run, Recorded by the Muses, live for aye; Ne may with storming showers be washed away, Ne bitter breathing winds with harmful blast, Nor age, nor envy, shall them ever waste. CHAP. II. Of Funeral Monuments, Graves, Tombs, or Sepulchers. Of the ancient custom of burials. Of Epitaphs, and other funeral honours. NOw to speak properly of a Monument, as it is here in this my ensuing Treatise understood, it is a receptacle or sepulchre, purposely made, erected, or built, to receive a dead corpse, and to preserve the same from violation. Scipio Gentilis lib. Orig. sing. Nam monumentum Sepulchri, est, quod causa muniendi eius loci factum sit, in quo corpus impositum sit, unde Monumentum quasi munimentum dicitur. And indeed these Funeral Monuments, in foregoing ages, were very fittingly called muniments, in that they did defend and fence the corpse of the defunct, which otherwise might have been pulled out of their graves by the savage brutishness of wild beasts: for as then none were buried in Towns or Cities, but either in the fields, along the high way side (to put passengers in mind, that they were like those so interred, mortal) upon the top, or at the feet of mountains. Apud maiores (saith Seruiu● lib. xi. Aeneid.) aut sub montibus, aut in ipsis montibus sepeliebantur, unde natum est, ut super cadavera aut pyramides fierent, aut ingentes collocarentur columnae. The Romans were forbidden by this the second Law of their twelve Tables. Hominem mortuum in urbe ne sepelito neve urito: to bury or burn any within any Town or City. For the ancient custom of burial amongst the jews, we read, that Abraham was buried with Sara his wife, in the cave of Machpelah in the field of Ephron, Gen. cap. 25. And Vzziah king of juda, slept with his fathers, and they buried him with his fathers, in the field of the burial which pertained to the kings. 2. Chron. cap. 26. The sepulchre of Lazarus was without the city of Bethania: and so was that of joseph without jerusalem. Sandys in the relation of his long journey, tells us, that he was showed the Tomb of the Prophet Samuel, as also the Sepulchre of the seven brethren (who were tortured to death by Antiochus) fenced about with a pile of stones, square, flat, and solid, both of them being on the top of two mountains, near unto the city of Emmaus; and in the vineyards on the Northwest side of the said city, sundry places of burial, hewed out of the main rock, amongst the rest, one called the Sepulchre of the Prophets. And those Egyptian lofty proud Pyramids (the barbarous wonders of vain cost) so universally celebrated, being the Regal sepulchers of the Ptolomees, were erected far out of all cities, as the said Traveller tells us, who did see so much of the ruins thereof, as time hath not devoured. The Athenians buried such as were slain in battle, and other honourable personages, in a place without the City called Ceramnicus. So here in England, the interments of the dead were anciently far out of all Towns and Cities, either on the ridges of hills, or upon spacious plains, fortified or fenced about, with obelisks, pointed stones, Pyramids, pillars, or such like monuments; for example, England's wonder upon Salisbury-plaine, called Stonehenge, the sepulchre of so many Britain's, who by the treachery of the Saxons, were slain there at a parley. That of Wada the Saxon Duke near to Whitby in Yorkshire, and those of Cartigerne the Britain, and Horsa the Saxon, near to Ailesford in Kent. It was a thing usual among our old Saxon ancestors (saith Verstegan) as by Tacitus it also seemeth to have been among the other Germans, that the dead bodies of such as were slain in the field, and buried in the fields, were not laid in graves, but lying upon the ground, were covered over with turns, clods, or sods of earth; And the more in reputation the persons had been, the greater and higher were the turns raised over their bodies: and this some used to call Byriging, some Beorging, and some Buriging of the dead, which we now call berying, or burying of the dead, which properly is a shrouding or an hiding of the dead body in the earth. Of these kind of funeral monuments you have many upon Salisbury-plaine, out of which the bones of bodies thus inhumed are oftentimes digged up; which the Inhabitants thereabout call Berries, Baroes', and some Burrowes, which acordeth with the same fence of Byrighs, Beorghs, or burgh's. From whence the names of divers Towns and Cities are originally derived; Places first so called, having been with walls of turf or clods of earth, fenced about for men to be shrouded in, as in forts or Castles. Reutha, King of that never-conquered terrible, fierce Nation of the Scots (who flourished about they ear of the world 3784. and before the birth of our blessed Saviour, one hundred eighty and seven years) ordained, That such Noblemen which had achieved any notable exploit in defence of their country, should be had in perpetual memory, and buried, in solemn wise, in sepulchers aloft upon hills, or mountains, upon which were set so many Obelisks, pillars, or long-pointed stones, as they had slain enemies in the wars. Whereof some remain (saith Hector Boethius in the life of the said King) there to be seen even to this day. Sepulchers of this stately kind of structure for persons of eminent rank and quality, were sometimes (howsoever) erected within the cities: for we read in the first book of the Maccabees, Chap. 13. that jonathan the valiant (brother to judas the worthy) being slain in battle near to Baschama, and there buried, Simon sent to take the bones of his brother jonathan (I will use the words of the Text) And they buried him in Modin his father's city. And all Israel bewailed him with great lamentation, and mourned for him very long. And Simon made upon the Sepulchre of his father, and his brethren, a building high to look unto, of hewed stone behind and before. And set up seven pillars upon it, one against another, for his father, his mother, and four brethren: And set great pillars round about them, and set arms upon the pillars for a perpetual memory, and carved ships beside the arms, that they might be seen of men sailing in the sea. In like manner the Romans (notwithstanding their second law of the twelve Tables) did sometime entomb their dead within the City (but that was but seldom;) for the bones and ashes of Trajan the Emperor, were put into a golden urn, and set in the Marketplace, upon the top of a pillar, of one whole piece, being one hundred and forty foot high. And Galba's body long neglected (saith Tacitus) and in the dark despitefully entreated; Argius his Steward, one of his principal bondmen, buried with small ceremony in his private garden. But this was not usual amongst them. Hospinian lib. 3. cap. 1. out of Durandus, Ulpian, and other Authors, gives this reason: wherefore both the jews and Gentiles used to bury their dead, without the gates of Towns and Cities. It was a custom in times of old (saith he) that men and women were buried in their own private houses, or within their own private gardens; but afterwards for the noisome savour, and contagious stink of the dead carcases so interred, it was enacted, That all burials should be without Towns and Cities, in some convenient place appointed for that purpose. And howsoever that this order was observed by the Gentiles upon this reason only, Scilicet ut in urbibus mundicies seruaretur, & aer minus inficeretur, ex cadaverum putrescentium faetore; Yet the true Christians, and such as by their lively faith were adopted the children of God, had a further mystery in this their manner of interments; for by the carriage and burial of their dead corpse without their city walls, they did publicly confirm, and witness, that the parties deceased were gone out of this world, to be made free denizens of another city, namely, Heaven, there to remain with the blessed Saints in eternal happiness. This order or custom of burial without cities, continued amongst the Christians, until the time of Gregory the great, for as then the Monks, Friars, and Priests (saith my foresaid Author) began to offer sacrifice for the souls departed; so that, for their more easy and greater profit, they procured first, that the places of sepulture should be adjoining unto their Churches, and afterwards they got licence to bury within Churches. Upon this reason out of the said Gregory 13. q. cap. 2. Cum gravia peccata non deprimunt (saith he) tunc prodest mortuis si in Ecclesijs sepeliantur; quia eorum proximi, quoties ad eadem sacra loca veniunt, suorumque sepulturam aspiciunt, recordantur & pro eye Domino preces fundunt. Panuinius in lideritu sepeliend. mortuos. Antiquitus tantum extra urbem in coemiterijs hominum corpora sepeliebantur, pace Ecclesiae data intra urbes, ad Templorum limina, postea etiam in ipsis templis sepeliri mos invaluit. Constantinus in porticu Templi Apostolorum, Constantinopoli: Honorius in porticu Templi S. Petri Romae, eius uxor intra idem Templum sepulti sunt. Anciently the bodies of the dead were buried only without cities in Coemiteries or sleeping places, until the resurrection (as the word signifies) but persecution being ended, and peace given to the Christian Church, the manner grew in use to bury within Cities, at the entrance into their sacred temples, yea and afterwards in the very Churches themselves. Constantine was buried in the porch of the Apostles in Constantinople. Honorius in the porch of S. Peter in Rome; and his wife (the Empress) within the said Church. But to come nearer home, Austin the first Archbishop of Canterbury, sent hither by the foresaid Gregory, was interred in the porch of Saint Peter and Paul, commonly called Saint Augustine's near unto Canterbury, a religious house of his own foundation, and together with him six other Archbishops who next succeeded him: whose relics afterwards were removed into the Abbey Church, of which I shall speak hereafter. Cuthbert or Cudbright th'eleventh, Archbishop of that Province, obtained from the Pope a dispensation, for the making of Coemiteries or Churchyards within Towns, and Cities, whereas, here in England, until his time, within the walls thereof none were buried. These following are the words in the Appendix to the book of Rochester a Mss. in Sir Robert Cottons Library. Cutbertus Archiepiscopus Cant. xi. ab Augustino cum Romae videret plures intra Civitates sepeliri, rogavit Papam ut sibi liceret Coemiteria facere, quod Papa annuit, reversus itaque coemiteria ubique in Anglia fieri constituit. This order of burial being thus begun here in England, it likewise followed, that Gravestones were made, and Tombs erected with inscriptions engraven upon them, to continue the remembrance of the parties deceased, to succeeding ages; and these were called Epitaphs: now, an Epitaph is a superscription (either in verse or prose) or an astrict pithy Diagram, writ, carved, or engraven, upon the tomb, grave, or sepulchre of the defunct, briefly declaring (and that sometimes with a kind of commiseration) the name, the age, the deserts, the dignities, the state, the praises both of body and mind, the good or bad fortunes in the life, and the manner and time of the death of the person therein interred. Of all funeral honours (saith Camden) Epitaphs have always been most respective; for in them love was showed to the deceased, memory was continued to posterity, friends were comforted, and the Reader pu● in mind of humane frailty: and indeed the frequent visiting, and advised reviewing of the Tombs and monuments of the dead (but without all touch of superstition) with the often reading, serious perusal, and diligent meditation of wise and religious Epitaphs or inscriptions, found upon the tombs or monuments, of persons of approved virtue, merit, and honour, is a great motive to bring us to repentance. The invention of Epitaphs proceeded from the presage or forefeeling of immortality, implanted in all men naturally, and is referred to the Scholars of Linus the Theban Poet, who flourished about the year of the world 2700) who first bewailed this Linus their master, when he was slain, in doleful verses, then called of him Aelina, afterward Epitaphia, for that they were first song at burials, after engraved upon the sepulchers. Funeral monuments then of costly workmanship, with curious engraven Epitaphs, were called Sepulchra, id est, semipulchra, half fair and beautiful; the external part or superficies thereof being gloriously beautified and adorned; and having nothing within, but dreadful darkness, loathsome stink, and rottenness of bones, as it is in the Gospel, Mat. 23. And they are sometimes called memories, à memoria vel à monendo, in that by them we are put in mind, and warned to consider our fragile condition; for they are external helps to excite, and stir up our inward thoughts, habere memoriam mortis semper prae oculis: to have the remembrance of death ever before our eyes, and that our brethren defunct, may not be out of mind as out of sight. Non ob aliud, saith S. Austin in his book De cura pro mortuis, vel memoriae vel monumenta dicuntur, ea quae insignita siunt Sepulchra mortuorum, nisi quia eos, qui viventium oculis morte subtracti sunt, ne oblivione etiam cordibus subtrahantur, in memoriam revocant, & admonendo faciunt cogitari: Nam & memoriae nomen id apertissime ostendit, & monumentum eo quod moneat mentem, id est admoneat nuncupatur. In the Register of the Grey Friars London, I find this definition of a funeral monument much what to the same effect. Monimentum est quasi monens mentem, & sic solet à doctoribus etymologiari: monet namque bifarie humanam mentem, cum aut mortis memoriam incutit visis precedentium sepulchris; aut eisdem conspectis, mentes moneantur sive moveantur carorum, ad reddend. suffragia pro ipsis. These tombs or sepulchers were also named, Requtatoria, Ossuaria, Cineraria, domus aeternae, etc. as you have them with their several significations in Kirkman, De Funeribus Romanorum. Tertullian (in his book De Resurrectione carnis, cap. 37.) calls these monuments of the dead, Cadaverum stabula, stables or stalls of carcases. Nemo iam poterit aliud mortuos interpretari, qui sunt in monimentis, nisi corpora & carnem, quia nec ipsa monimenta aliud, quam cadaverum stabula: which Lucian scoffingly termed camps and cottages of carcases. But to conclude this Chapter; R●maines. the place of burial was called by S. Paul, Seminatio, in the respect of the assured hope of resurrection: of the Greeks' Coemiterion, as a sleeping place until the resurrection: and of the Hebrews▪ The house of the living, in the same respect, as the Germans call Churchyards until this day, God's acre, or God's field. CHAP. III. Of Sepulchers answerable to the degree of the person deceased. The diverse manner of bearing man and woman to the Grave. When both Sexes began to be borne alike. Sepulchers should be made according to the quality and degree of the person deceased, that by the Tomb every one might be discerned of what rank he was living: for monuments answerable to men's worth, states and places, Camd. Remains. have always been allowed, and stately sepulchers for base fellows have always lain open to bitter jests; therefore it was the use and custom of reverend antiquity, to inter persons of the rustic or plebeian sort, in Christian burial, without any further remembrance of them, either by tomb, grave-stone, or epitaph. Persons of the meaner sort of Gentry, were interred with a flat grave-stone, comprehending the name of the defunct, the year and day of his decease, with other particulars, which was engraven on the said stone, or upon some plate. And Gentlemen, which were of more eminency, had their effigies or representation, cut or carved upon a Term or Pedestal, as it were of a pillar, raised somewhat above the ground, umbelico tenus: and this image had no arms, but was form from the waste upwards upon a Term, which did bear a true resemblance of the favour of the party defunct Upon the said term (commonly) were inserted, the name, progeny, match, issue, vocation, and employment of the defunct, with the day, year, and place of his death. Noble men, Princes, and Kings had (as it befitteth them, and as some of them have at this day) their Tombs or Sepulchers raised aloft above ground, to note the excellency of their state and dignity; and withal, their personages delineated, carved, and embossed, at the full length and bigness, truly proportioned throughout, as near to the life, and with as much state and magnificence, as the skill of the Artificer could possibly carve and form the same: the materials of which were alabaster, rich marble, touch, rauce, porpherey, polished brass or copper, like unto that made to the memory of King Henry the seventh in Westminster, who dwelleth more richly dead (saith Viscount Saint Alban in his history of that king's reign) in the monument of his Tomb, than he did alive in Richmond or any of his palaces, it being the stateliest, and most curious dainty monument of Europe, both for the Chapel, and for the Sepulchre. And as stately monuments were not due, nor allowed▪ to every man that was of ability to erect the same; so swelling titles, lofty inscriptions or epitaphs, were prohibited to be inscribed, insculpt, or engraven upon the sepulchers of men of mean desert: but only upon the monuments of such as were of virtue, wisdom, and valour▪ as martial men, or persons of eminent place of government in the weal public. Which is not observed altogether in these times: for by some of our epitaphs more honour is attributed to a rich quondam Tradesman, or griping usurer, then is given to the greatest Potentate entombed in Westminster: and their tombs are made so huge great, that they take up the Church, and hinder the people from divine Service. Besides if one shall seriously survey the Tombs erected in these our days, and examine the particulars of the personages wrought upon their Tombs, he may easily discern the vanity of our minds, vailed under our fantastic habits and attires, which in time to come will be rather provocations to vice, than incitations to virtue; and so the Temple of God shall become a schoolhouse of the monstrous habits and attires of our present age, wherein Tailors may find out new fashions. And which is worse, they garnish their Tombs, now adays, with the pictures of naked men and women; raising out of the dust, and bringing into the Church, the memories of the heathen gods and goddesses, with all their whirligigs: and this (as I take it) is more the fault of the Tombe-makers, than theirs who set them a work. There was likewise made a difference of personages in the carriage of their dead bodies to the place of sepulture, according to their state and dignity. Great men of birth or quality were carrried in chariots drawn with horses, trumpets and several sorts of musical instruments sounding before the corpse; mourners, and likewise many who sung mournful ditties in praise of the defunct: to whose further honour they did also set up in their Temples, and other public places, certain ornaments, as scutcheons, crowns, and such like: of which pompous progression more in the next Chapter. Now such as could not be interred with all this majestic solemnity, although they were of high parentage, for that the charge was very great, were buried in the evening by certain men who had that charge, who were called Vespillons. Men of meaner rank, howsoever never so rich, were not allowed this princely kind of production to their graves; for their corpse were borne upon their servant's shoulders, whom they had manumitted a little before their deaths, with a Trumpet only sounding before them, and some lights, according to this of Persius, Satire 3. Then were prepared for his Funeral The Trumpet, and the Lights: And last of all This seeming happy man, that would not doubt His health, being composedly laid out On his high bed, his bier; and now daubed o'er, And e'en bedurted with th'abundant store Of ointments; stretcheth towered the city gate His cold dead heels; and those whose best estate But yesterday, was but to be his slave, Now wear their caps, and bear him to his grave. Man and woman, though of equal degree and quality, were borne in a different manner to their graves. Man was borne upon men's shoulders to signify his dignity and superiority over his wife; and woman at the arms end, to signify, that being inferior to man, in her life time, she should not be equalled with him at her death. Which use continued a long time, until women, by renouncing the world, and living monastical religious lives, got such an honourable esteem in the world, that they were thought no less worthy of honour, in that kind, than men; and when as a widow d●ed having h●d but one husband, they carried her to her grave with a crown of chastity upon her head. Condemned persons (as they are now adays) were carried in wanes or carts, because they were thought unworthy to be borne by men, who, by their wicked demerits, had procured the hand of justice to cut them off, by untimely death, from the society of men. CHAP. four Of the excessive expenses bestowed at Funerals in former times. I Might include within this Chapter, and not impertinently, to these contents, the ancient customs, and manners of burying the dead, in all Nations, throughout all the habitable world: but that would make the gate bigger than the city, this discourse of a greater bulk, than all the rest of the book besides: you may find this Treatise touched upon, in the Volume of the Estates, Empires, and Principalities of the world; as also in the Treasury of Ancient and modern Times, the sixth book; where he speaks of diverse customs and fashions of burial, of ancient obsequies, and their ceremonies; only then a little of so much, because I would not stray beyond my limits. The ancient Romans did use them that were dead after two manners, and they had two kinds of obsequies: the first and most ancient was to cover the dead with earth, and to bury them as we do; the other, to burn their bodies, but this manner did not continue long. Sepeliri antiquius fuisse quam cremari. Plin. lib. 7. cap. 54. Cremari apud Romanos non suit ve●eris instituti, terra condebantur: at postquam longinquis hellis obrutos eru● cognovere, est institutum, & tamen multae familiae priscos seruavere ritus. Manut. de leg. Rom. solemnising. 125. Numa Pompilius was the inventor of obsequies, and he instituted a high Priest, who had the charge. The first honour which they used to perform in the obsequies of famous persons, was to commend the party by an Oration. Valerius Publicola made a funeral oration on the death and in the praise of Brutus. In like manner julius Caesar, being but twelve years old, commended his grandfather: and Tiberius at the age of nine years praised his father. The second honour was to make Sword-players to fight. Marcus and Decius sons to junius Brutus, were the first that did practise this, in honour of their father. The third honour was, to make a feast of magnificent furnishment. The fourth was a distribution of meat to all the common people. And such (as I have said before) as could not be buried with the like, and so great pomp (for the expenses were in supportable) were buried in the night time, by the Vespillons clothed all in white, who carried the dead body to his grave. They had likewise an order, that within some while after the obsequies, they would strew diverse flowers, and sweet odours, upon the sepulchre, as the Roman people did upon the funeral monument of Scipio. And also they accustomed yearly, to garnish, deck, and adorn, the tombs or graves of the dead, with poesies, crowns, and garlands of all sorts of flowers. Husbands (saith Saint jerom ad Pammachum) were wont to straw, spread, or scatter over, and upon the graves and sepulchers of their deceased dear wives, violets, roses, lilies, hyacinths, and diverse purple flowers: by which uxorious office, they did mitigate, and lessen the grief of their hearts conceived by the loss of their loving bedfellows. The like expression of mutual love wives showed to their buried husbands. Now above all flowers in these ceremonious observances, the Rose was in greatest request, and had the sole pre-eminence. Romani (saith Kirkman de Funeribus Romanorum, lib. 4. cap. 3.) verò Rosarum fuere studiosi, ut iis post mortem monimenta sua spargi supremo iudicio nonnunquam iusserint, legato ad hanc rem relics, cui plerumque haec erat conditio (ut in Ravennati inscriptione legimus) ut quotannis Rosas ad monumentum eius de●errent, ibique epularentur. To which Io. Passeratius in his Rosa, thus alludes. Manibus est imis Rosa grata, & grata Sepulchris, Et Rosa flos Florum. Unto the Tombs and Spirits of the dead The Rose is grateful, of all flowers the head. And Anacreon in praise of the Rose thus sings in one of his odes: I will use the Latin translation. Rosa, honour, decusque florum Rosa, cura amorque veris Rosa, coelitum voluptas: And in another ode in commendation of the Rose more aptly to this purpose, thus. Medicatur haec & aegris, Defendit haec sepultos▪ The Rose full many griefs doth cure, Defends corpse laid in sepulture. The ancient Ethnics did hold the springing of flowers, from the grave of a deceased friend, an argument of his happiness; and it was their universal wish, That the Tomb stones of their dead friends might be light unto them; and that a perpetual springtide, of all kind of fragrant flowers, might encircle their verdant graves. According to this of Persius. Sat. 7. Dij maiorum umbris tenuem & sine pondere terram Spirantesque crocos, & in urna perpetuum ver. Lie earth light on their bones, may their graves bear Fresh fragrant flowers: let springtide still live there. But to come back again. The magnificence in burning the bodies of the dead, did far exceed in charges all other kinds of funeral; for which the bodies of persons of principal regard (as you may read in the Travels of George Sandys) they burned rich odours, gold, jewels, apparel, herds of cattle, flocks of sheep, horses, hounds, and sometimes the concubines and slaves whom they most respected, to supply their wants, to serve their delights, and attend upon them in the lower shades. The express● of such a funeral fire, wherein the body of Archemorus was consumed, is thus set down by Statius the Theban; in his sixth book, translated by Sandys. Never were ashes with more wealth replete; Gems crackle, silver melts, gold drops with heat: Embroidered robes consume. Okes, fattened by The juice of sweet Assyrian drugs, flame high: Fired honey, and pale saffron hiss: full bowls Of wine poured on, and goblets (gladding souls) Of black blood, and snatched milk. The Greek Kings then With Guidons' trailed on earth, led forth their men In seven troops: in each troop an hundred Knights Circling the sad pile with sinister rites: Who choke the flame with dust. Thrice it they round Their weapons clash: four times a horrid sound Struck armours raised: as oft the Servants beat Their bared breasts, with out-cries. Herds of Neat, And beasts half slain, another wasteful fire Devours, etc. With the like solemnity, or far greater, the funerals of Patroclus were performed by Achilles, for with him were burned, oxen, sheep, dogs, horses, and twelve stout and valiant sons of noble Troyans'. Achilles pulls off the hair off his head, and casts it into the flame; and besides institutes certain Funeral Games to the honour of his slain friend, the glory of the Greekish Nation, Patroclus which is recorded by Homer in the 23. book of his Iliads; of which this is the argument: Achilles orders jousts of Obsequies, For his Patroclus, and doth sacrifice Twelve Trojan Princes: most loved hounds, and horse, And other offering to the honoured corpse. He institutes besides a Funeral Game, Where Diomedes for horse-race wins the same. For foot, Ulysses; other otherwise Strive, and obtain, and end the Exequys. They used to quench these funeral fires with red wine, and gathering the bones together, to include them in urns, which they placed in or upon some sumptuous rich Monument, erected for that purpose, as you may read in the sixth book of Virgil's Aen●iads, Aene●● 〈◊〉 Trump 〈…〉. in the funerals of Misenus, most lively thus expressed. I will use Phaers' Translation. — the Troyans' all in solemn guise Did wail Misenus corpse, and gave to him their last outcries. First cut in culpons great, and fat of sap, with pitch among, A stately pile they build, with timber trees and Cypress strong, (That dead men's treasure is) his gorgeous arms also they set; Some brought the water warm, and Cauldrons boiling out they set. The body cold they wash, and precious ointments on they pour; Lamenting loud is made, then close his limbs in bed, or floor, They crouch with weeping tears, and purple weeds on him they throw: His robes, his harne is bright, and ensigns all that men may know. In mourning sort some heave on shoulders high the mighty Beer, (A doleful service sad) as children do their father dear, Behind them holding brands, than flame uprising broad doth spread, And oils and dainties cast, and Frankincense the fire doth feed. When fall'n his cinders were, and longer blaze did not endure; His relics and remains of dust, with wine they washed pure, Then Choriney his bones in brazen coffin bright did close. And sprinkling water pure, about his mates three times he goes: And drops of sacred dew, with Olive-palmes on them did shake, And compass blessed them all, and sentence last he sadly spoke: To fields of joy thy soul, and endless rest we do betake. But good Aeneas then, right huge in height his Tomb did rear, And gave the Lord his Arms, his Ore and Trumpet fixed there, On mountain near the skies, that of Misenus bears the name, And everlasting shall from world to world retain the same. Many more ceremonies were observed in the magnificent ordering of both kinds of Funerals, as well of such as were buried in the earth, as of these burned in these costly piles of wood. The custom of burning the dead bodies continued among the Romans, but until the time of the Antonine Emperors, An Do 200. or thereabouts: then they began to bury again in the earth. Manutius de log. Rom. fol 125.126. They had, at these burials, suborned counterfeit hired mourners, which were women of the loudest voices, who betimes in the morning did mere at appointed places, and then cried out mainly, beating of their breasts, tearing their hair, their faces, and garments, joining therewith the prayers of the defunct, from the hour of his nativity, unto the hour of his dissolution; still keeping time with the melancholic music. (This is a custom observed at this day in some parts of Ireland, but above all Nations the jews are best skilled in these lamentations, being Fruitful in tears: Inuen. 〈◊〉 tears, that still ready stand To sally forth, and but expect command.) Amongst these women there was ever an old aged Beldame, Rosin. de Autin Romano. 〈…〉 l. ●. cap. 59 called Praefica, quasi in hoc ipso manus praefecta, a superintendent above all the rest of the mourners: who with a loud voice did pronounce these words: ay licet, or, Ire licet; as much to say, He must needs depart: and when the dead corpse were lain in the grave, and all ceremonies finished, she delivered the last adieu in this manner, Vale, vale, vale, nos te ordine, quo natura permiserit, cuncti sequemur: Adieu, Adieu, Adieu, we must follow thee, according as the course of nature shall permit us. The manner of these lament (saith George Sandys in his Journal) may of old appear by this ironical personating of a father following the exequys of his son, introducted by Lucian in these words: O my sweet son, thou art lost, thou art dead: dead before thy day, and hast left me behind, of men the most miserable. Not experienced in the pleasures of a wife, the comforts of children, warfare, husbandry, nor attained to maturity. Henceforth, O my son, thou shalt not eat, nor love, nor be drunk amongst thy equals. They had likewise their Libitinarij (and those many in number) which were the providers of all things necessary for the Funerals; and their Pollinctores, which were those that anointed, embalmed, and invested the defunct, with myrrh, aloes, salt, honey, wax, sweet odours, precious oils, perfumed sereclothes, fine Aromatic Sindon, and the like. The mourners were exceeding many, (of which I have partly spoken before) with Trumpeters, and Musicians of all sorts, most dolefully sounding, and warbling forth their lamentable notes: the corpse of the defunct being guarded, and attended upon, with troops of horsemen, which was accounted an extraordinary kind of honour done to the deceased: then last of all, Funeral Games, Bonfires of most precious woods, Orations, magnificent, sumptuous, and most royal feasts and banquets were ordained. But these excessive charges, these superfluous and impertinent costs of funeral expenses, were by certain Laws restrained, both by the Romans, and Grecians, and funeral charges proportioned, according to the worthiness of the person deceased, and his means; answerable to the valuation of his yearly revenues, or the general estimate of his substance. In like manner these Ethnic lamentations, and fearful howl for the dead, by hired mourners, were prohibited; yet moderate weeping and mourning at Funerals, was never dissallowed; nay it hath been ever highly commended, accounted the chief grace of Funerals, promised for a blessing to the godly, and the want thereof, a malediction or curse; and moderately to mourn after the interment of our friends, is a manifest token of true love; by it we express that natural affection we had to the departed, with a Christianlike moderation of our grief, whereby our faith to God ward is demonstrated. For as God hath made us living, so hath he made us loving creatures, to the end we should not be as stocks and stones, void of all kind and natural affection, but that living and loving together, the love of the one should not end with the life of the other. And now to go a little further, I say, that to mourn and sorrow for parents, children, husbands, wives, kindred and friends, is not any matter of novelty but most ancient. Gen. 1●. Abraham mourned and wept for his wife Sarah: David could not hide his fatherly affection toward his son Absalon; although he was a traitor to his father, 2. Sam. 18. David the King: for so soon as he heard of his death, he went up to the chamber over the gate (as the text is) and wept: and as he went, thus he said, O my son Absalon, my son, my son Absalon, would God I had died for thee, O Absalon, my son, my son. David also hearing of the death of murdered Abner, whom he respected as a dear friend: said unto joab (who slew Abner) and to all the people that were with him, 2▪ Sam. 5. Rend your clothes and put on sackcloth, and mourn, before the corpse of Abner: and king David himself followed the Beer. And when they had buried Abner in Hebron, the king lifted up his voice, and wept beside the Sepulchre of Abner, and all the people wept. Now, it being the custom of the Israelites to feast and banquet at their burials; ●he people came to cause David (such is the Scripture phrase) to eat meat while it was yet day, but David swore, saying, So do God to me and more also, if I taste bread, or aught else till the Sun be down: and a●l the people knew it, and it pleased them, saith the Text. Our a●l perfect and Almighty Saviour Christ jesus, joh. 11. wept over the grave of dead Lazarus (whom he revived) whereupon the standers by said among themselves, behold how he loved him. The ancient Romans, before they were Christians, mourned nine months, but being Christians, they used mourning a whole year, clothed in black for the most part, for women were clothed partly in white, and partly in black, according to the diversity of Nations. And if any Christian, man, or woman, in those parts, wearing mourning, came to agree again in a second marriage, during the year appointed for mourning, the Matrimony was stayed, but thenceforward he nor she were bound to wear any more mourning. These examples considered, I observe that we, in these days, do not weep and mourn at the departure of the dead, so much, nor so long, as in Christian duty we ought. For husbands can bury their wives, and wives their husbands, with a few counterfeit tears, and a sour visage masked and painted over with dissimulation; contracting 2. marriages, before they have worn out their mourning garments, and sometimes before their cope mates be cold in their graves. Young heirs may attend upon the corpse of their parents to their burial places, seemingly making great shows of inward grief and sorrow, but Haeredis flectus sub persona risus est. Aul. G●ll. Noct. Att. lib. 17. c. 14. The weeping of an heir, is laughing under a vizard or disguise. And if his father have impaired, or not augmented his state and inheritance, this young master will reduce the convoy of his father's obsequies, to some unwonted parsimony, answerable to these verses of Persius in the sixth and last Satire. — if thou impair thy wealth, thy angered heir Of thy last funeral feast will take small care: And with neglect into thy urn will throw Thy bones without perfumes, careless to know Whether he buy dull-smelling Cinnamon, Or Casia corrupt with cherry gum. Now howsoever the procuration of funerals, the manner of burial, the pomp of obsequies, be rather comforts to the living, then helps to the dead; and although all these ceremonies be despised by our parents on their deathbeds; yet should they not be neglected by us their children, or nearest of kindred, upon their interments. But funerals in any expensive way here with us, are now accounted but as a fruitless vanity, insomuch that almost all the ceremonial rites of obsequies heretofore used, are altogether laid aside: for we see daily that Noblemen, and Gentlemen of eminent rank, office, and quality, are either silently buried in the night time, with a Torch, a twopenny Link, and a Lantern; or parsimoniously interred in the daytime, by the help of some ignorant countrey-painter, without the attendance of any one of the Officers of Arms, whose chiefest support, and maintenance, hath ever depended upon the performance of such funeral rites, and exequys. So that now by reason of this general neglect of Funerals, and the sleight regard we have of the needful use of Heralds, many and great errors are daily committed, to the great offence and prejudice of the ancient Nobility, and Gentry of this Kingdom, and to the breeding of many ambiguous doubts and questions, which may happen in their Descents, and issues in future ages: And nothing will be shortly left to continue the memory of the deceased to posterity; pilfery and the opinion some have, that Tombs, and their Epitaphs, taste somewhat of Popery, having already most sacrilegiously stolen, erazed, and taken away, almost all the Inscriptions and Epitaphs, cut, writ, inlaid, or engraven upon the Sepulchers of the deceased; and most shamefully defaced the glorious rich Tombs, and goodly monuments of our most worthy Ancestors. It could be wished that some order might betaken for the preservation of these few which are as yet remaining: for to mine own knowledge, by the observation I have made in many Churches, the Monuments of the dead are daily thus abused. CHAP. V. The reasons wherefore so many have made their own Monuments in their life-time. Of the care that all or most of all men have of decent burial. The burial of the dead, a work acceptable unto God. A funeral Hymn of Aurelius Prudentius to the like purpose. IT was usual in ancient times, and so it is in these our days, for persons of especial rank and quality to make their own Tombs and Monuments in their life-time; partly for that they might have a certain house to put their head in (as the old saying is) whensoever they should be taken away by death, out of this their Tenement, the world; and partly to please themselves, in the beholding of their dead countenance in marble. But most especially because thereby they thought to preserve their memories from oblivion. Absalon in his life time, erected a pillar, to retain the memory of his name, in that his issue male failed. Will you hear the Text. 2. Sam. c●. ●8 Now Absalon in his life-time had taken, and reared him up a pillar, which is in the King's dale: for he said, I have no son to keep my name in remembrance, and he called the pillar after his own name, and it is called unto this day, Absalon's place. This pillar, which Absalon intended for the place of his sepulture, hewed and framed out of the rock or growing stone, is to be seen at this day, saith Sandys, all entire and of a goodly fabric. But to return, every man like Absalon desires a perpetuity after death, by these monuments, or by other means, Cap. 4. according to that of Tertullian in his book, De Testimonio animae. Quis non hodie (saith he) memoriae post mortem frequentandae ita studet, ut vel literaturae operibus, vel simplici laude morum, vel ipsorum sepulchrorum ambitione, nomen suum seruet? These that in their life time do thus build their own sepulchers, and take care in the ceremonious disposing of their funerals, would (no question) lay this charge upon those which they must of necessity trust, in the performance of their Wills and Testaments, and employ their last days and hours in more heavenly designs; if they did not oftentimes see in their course of life, that as well heirs as executours, inter both the honour and memory of the defunct, together with his corpse: perfidiously forgetting their fidelity to the deceased. Of which will it please you read this old inscription depicted upon a wall within S. Edmund's Church in Lumbard-street, London. Man, the behovyth oft to have * this. yiss in mind, * that. Yat thou giveth with * thine. yin hand, yat shall thou find, For widows be sloful, and children beth unkind, Executors beth covetoes, and keep all yat * they. yey find. If eny body esk where the deddys' goods became. * they answer. Yey ansquer So God me help and halidam, he died a poor man, * think on this. Yink on yiss Io. Gower in his additions to his book called Vox clamantis, Mss. in. Bib. Cott. hath these verses, contra mortuorum Executores, much what to the same effect. Dicunt Scripture memorare novissima vite, Pauper ab hoc mundo transiet omnis homo. Dat Fortuna status varios, Natura sed omnes Fine suo claudit, cunctaque morte rapit. Post mortem pauci qui nunc reputantur amici, Sunt memores: anime sis memor ipse tue. Da dum tempus habes, tibi propria sit manus heres; Auferet hoc nemo quod dabis ipse Deo. Upon these and the like considerations, they used (as they now do) to inscribe or engrave these kind of monuments with certain sentences to this effect. Fallax saepe fides, testataque vota peribunt: Constitues tumulum, si sapis, ipse tuum. Or thus. Certa dies nulli, mors certa, incerta sequentum Cura: locet tumulum qui sapit ipse sibi. Concluding most commonly with these words. Viws fecit. Viws faciendum curavit. Viws sibi posuit. Se vino fecit. Viws hoc sibi fecit monumentum: and the like. Some erected their sepulchers whilst they were living, concluding their inscriptions thus. Sibi & coniugi. Sibi, coniugi & Liberis. Sibi & posteris. And some that would not have their wife's heirs nor any other entombed therein, thus. Hoc monumentum heredes non sequuntur. Or thus: Rogo per deos superos inferosque ossa nostra ne viols. This care of burial moved Augustus Caesar to build his funeral monument, in the sixth year of his Consulship; for himself, and the succeeding Emperors. The like reason moved Hadrian to build his Tomb or Sepulchre near unto the bridge Aelium, for the Mausoleum of Augustus was full; as Xiphilinus writes in the life of Hadrian. And to bring you this honey example, the like consideration moved King Henry the seventh, in the eighteenth year of his reign, to build that glorious fair Chapel at Westminster, for an house of burial, for himself, his children, and such only of the blood-royal, as should descend from his joins; forbidding that any other of what degree or quality soe●uer, should ever be interred in that sacred mould; as appears by his last Will and Testament. De Ci●t. Dei. ca 1●. Saint Augustine saith, that the Funerals of the righteous, in the times of old, were performed with a zealous care, their burials celebrated, and their Monuments provided in their life time. R●maines. Great hath been the care of burial (saith Camden) ever since the first times, insomuch that Fathers would lay charges upon their children, concerning the burial, and translating of their bodies, every one being desirous to return, in Sepulchra maiorum, into the sepulchers of their Ancestors. Gen. 49.50. jacob at his death charged his son joseph to carry his body into the sepulchre of his fathers. And joseph himself commanded his brethren that they should remember and tell their posterity, that when they went away into the land of promise, they should carry his bones thither with them. Abraham, Isaac, jacob, Sarah, Rebecca, Leah, and joseph, were buried together in one Sepulchre. The kings of Egypt accustomed to awe their subjects by threatening to deprive them of burial. And it was a penalty of the law amongst the Romans. He that doth this, or that, let him be cast forth unburied; and so in the declamations; He that forsakes his parents in their necessities, let him be cast forth unburied; An Homicide, let him be cast forth unburied. And so speaks Cicero to the people's humour for Milo, when he affirms his carcase to be more wretched, because it wanted the solemn rites of funeral. Commanders in wars used to terrify their enemies with the want of burial, according to this speech of Hector in the fifteenth book of Homer's Iliads. T●ans. by George Chapman▪ Then Hector cried out, take no spoil, but rush on to the fleet, From whose assault (for spoil nor flight) if any man I meet, He meets his death: nor in the fire of holy funeral, His brothers nor his sister's hands shall cast within our wall, His loathed body; but without, the throats of dogs shall grave His manless limbs. The people of Israel, crying unto God against the barbarous tyranny of the Babylonians, who spoilt God's inheritance, polluted his Temple, destroyed his religion, and murdered his chosen Nation; amongst other calamities, thus they complain for the want of sepulture. The dead bodies of thy servants have they given to be meat unto fowls of the heaven; Psal. 79. and the flesh of thy Saints unto the beasts of the earth. Their blood have they shed like waters, round about jerusalem, and there was none to bury them. God commands Elias to tell jezebel, that, for her wickedness, the dogs should eat up her flesh in the field of jesreel; 2. King 9 and that her carcase should be as dung upon the ground, in the said field of jesreel: so that none should say, this is jezebel. The seduced Prophet, 1. King 13. because he disobeyed the mouth of the Lord, was reproved by him who was the occasion of his error, as he had it in commandment from God; and withal told, that his carcase should not come unto the sepulchre of his Fathers. Esay speaking in derision of the death and sepulture of the king of Babylon, Chap. 14.18, 19, 20. which was not with his Fathers, for that his tyranny was so much abhorred; thus noteth his unhappiness. All the kings of the nations, even they all sleep in glory every one in his own house. But thou art cast out of thy grave like an abominable branch: like the raiment of those that are slain, and thrust through with a sword, which go down to the stones of the pit, as a carcase trodden under feet. Thou shalt not be joined with them in the grave. jeremy the Prophet speaking against the breakers of Gods sacred covenants, brings in (most commonly) the want of burial, as a punishment for such their heinous offences as followeth. Thus saith the Lord, jer. 34.20. I will even give them into the hands of their enemies, and into the hands of them that seek their life; and their dead bodies shall be for meat unto the fowls of the heaven, and to the beasts of the earth. And prophesying against jehoakim; he is inspired with these words. Thus saith the Lord against jehoakim, Ier 22.18.19. the son of josiah king of juda: they shall not lament him, saying, Ah my brother, or ah sister, neither shall they mourn for him, saying, Ah, Lord, or ah, his glory. He shall be buried, as an ass is buried; (not honourably (saith the Margin) among his fathers) even drawn and cast forth without the gates of jerusalem. In other places of his prophecy, thus. They shall die of deaths, jer. 16.4. and diseases they shall not be lamented, neither shall they be buried, but they shall be as dung upon the earth. They shall be cast out in the streets of jerusalem, jer. 14.16. because of the famine, and the sword, and there shall be none to bury them: both they and their wives, their sons and their daughters; for I will pour their wickedness upon them. Thus saith the Lord of hosts, jer. 19.7. I will cause them to fall by the sword, before their enemies, and by the hand of them that seek their lives: and their carcases will I give to be meat for the fowls of the heaven, and to the beasts of the field. We have diverse examples of this nature in the holy Scriptures. But let us go no further then to the laws of our own Nation, by which the subject is kept in awful obedience. He that commits treason, is adjudged by our Laws, to be hanged, drawn, and quartered, and his divided limbs to be set upon poles in some eminent place, within some great Market-town, or City. He that commits that crying sin of murder, is usually hanged up in chains, so to continue until his body be consumed, at or near the place where the fact was perpetrated. Such as are found guilty of other criminal causes, as Burglary, Felony, or the like, after a little hanging are cut down and indeed buried, but seldom in Christian mould (as we say) nor in the sepulchers of their fathers, except their fathers had their graves made near, or under the gallows. And we use to bury such as lay violent hands upon themselves, in or near to the high ways, with a stake thrust through their bodies, to terrify all passengers, by that so infamous and reproachful a burial; not to make such their final passage out of this present world. The fear of not having burial, or having of ignominious and dishonourable burial, hath ever affrighted the bravest spirits of the world▪ this fear made the dying Mezentius make this request to his enemy Aeneas. Virg. Ae●. l●. 10. No ill in death: not so came I to sight: Nor made my Lausus such a match. One right Afford (if pity stoop t●a vanq●sht foe) Inter m● corpse. Much hate of mine I know Surrounds me. Dead from that feared fury save: And lay me with my son, both in one grave. This fear made the faire-helmed Hector (as Homer calls him) being ready to combat with Ajax Telamonius, to propound this covenant. Amongst you all whose breast includes the most expulsive mind, Let him stand forth, as Combatant, by all the rest designed, Before whom thus I call high jove, to witness of our strife: If he with home-thrust-iron can reac● th'exposure of my life, (Spoiling my arms) let him at will convey them to his tent. But let my body be renurned, that Troy's two-stept descent M●y ●●see it in the funeral pile: if I can slaughter him, (Apollo honouring me so much) I'll spoil his conquered limb: And bear his arms to Ilium, where in Apollo's Shrine I'll hang them as my Trophies due: his body I'll resign To ●e disposed by his friends, in flamie Funerals; And honoured with erected Tomb, where Hellespontus falls Into Aegaeum, and doth reach even to your naval road. That when our beings in the earth shall hide their period, Epitas●●●um per anticipat●onem. Suruivers sailing the black sea, may thus his name renew: This is his Monument, whose blood long since did fates imbrue, Whom passing far in fortitude, illustrate Hector slew. This shall posterity report, and my fame never die. Cicero, in his second book, De gloria, makes Aiax (glorious in arms) to entreat Hector, that if it were his fortune, to be vanquished by him so renowned an enemy; he would afford his body worthy and honourable burial, and that his Tomb to succeeding ages, might thus speak to all passengers. Hic situs est vitae iampridem lumina linquens, Aul. Gell. Not Att. li. 〈…〉. Cui quondam Hectoreo perculsus concidit ense, Fabitur haec aliquis, mea semper gloria vines. Here he lies deprived of light, Slain by Hector's sword in fight: Some one will ever tell this story; So endless shall be Aiax glory. Achilles, having given Hector his death's wound, insulted over him (as it is in the two and twentieth book of Homer's Iliads) thus. — And now the dogs and fowls, in foulest use Shall tear thee up, thy corpse exposed to all the greeks abuse. To whom Hector makes his dying request on this manner. He fainting said, let me implore, even by thy knees, and soul, And thy great parents; do not see a cruelty so foul, Inflicted on me; brass and gold receive at any rate, And quit my person, that the Peers, and Ladies of our State May tomb it. Thus you see how much the most heroical spirits desired the honour of sepulture, with the performance of all funeral rites; howsoever Lucan in his fifth book of the Pharsalian wars, makes julius Caesar (being as then in danger to be drowned) to expostulate with the Gods, and (in a boasting manner) to contemn all funeral exequys. Concluding thus. — O Gods I crave No Funeral: let the seas utmost wave Keep my torn carcase, let me want a Tomb And funeral pile, whilst looked for still to come Into all Lands I am, and ever feared. But this was but one of Caesar's rodomantadoes, or thundering declamations in a storm, only to his poor Bargeman Amyclas, being as then out of all hope or help for burial, save in the bottom of the sea; otherwise at another time, I do not doubt but that he would have desired sepulture with all her ceremonies, as earnestly as Hector or any one of his nine fellow-worthies. For never any (saith Camden) neglected burial but some savage nations; Remains. as Bactrians, which cast their dead to the dogs; some varlet Philosophers, as Diogenes, who desired to be devoured of fishes; some dissolute Courtiers; as Macaenas who was wont to say, Non tumulum curo sepelit natura relictos. I'm careless of a grave: Nature her dead will save. As another said. De terra interram, & quaevis terra Sepulchrum. From earth to earth we go; Each earths alike grave so. Lucius Scipio likewise, being overthrown at the battle of Thapsus, where he was General, fled disguisedly by sea for his own safety, but being driven by a storm into the Bay of Hippo, where Caesar's Navy lay to guard the shores, and perceiving them himself and his Bark both lost; he stabbed himself with his poniard, leapt overboard, and drowned himself in the main; uttering upon his instant resolution certain words in disdain of burial. Thomas May, lib. 4. Thus exquisitely delivered in verse by my worthy Friend the continuer of Lucan's Historical poem. My course is run; and, though this armed hand Shall testify I could have died by land, The Ocean likes me best; within the main Unknown for ever Scipio shall remain: O let my floating carcase never come To land, lest Africa should bestow a Tomb, And to her sons in after ages show A Monument of vanquished Scipio. Loath he was that his dead body should either suffer despite, or receive favour from his enemies; so that I think no otherwise of his imprecations then I do of Caesar's. These careless Mecaenas-like resolutions, make so many (I believe) of especial note amongst us; who either upon a sparing or precise humour, are content to commit to the earth, their parents, wives, children, and the nearest unto them, in tenebris, with little better than Sepulchra asinorum. This office of burying the dead, this last duty done to our deceased friends, hath ever had the prime place of commendation by Lucan, lib. 18. for that he, so solicitously took care to give all funeral dues, to the head less Trunk of great Pompey, cut off by the treachery of the ungrateful base Ptolomey; upon whom he is made in the said book to bestow this Epitaph. Here the great Pompey lies, so Fortune pleased, To instile this stone; whom Caesar's self would have Interred, before he should have missed a grave. And Virgil makes burial an honour to such as are slain in battle, and so consequently of others. Mean while th'vnburied bodies of our mates Cive we to grave, sole honour after fates. Go honour those brave souls, with their last dues, Who with their blood purchased this land for us. Toby his burying of the dead was acceptable unto God, as the Angel testifieth. And the Lord himself, being to arise again the third day, commended that good work of those religious women, who poured those precious ointments, with sweet odours, upon his head and body, and did it to bury him. And the Gospel hath crowned them with immortal praise, that took down his body from the cross, and gave it honest and honourable burial. Lib. 1. de civet Dei. cap. 11. Which signifieth, saith S. Augustine, that the providence of God extendeth even unto the very bodies of the dead (for he is pleased with such good deeds) and do build up the belief of the resurrection. Where, by the way (saith he) we may learn this profitable lesson; how great the reward of alms done unto the living may be, since this duty and favour shown, but unto the dead, is not forgotten of God. Decent burial, according to the quality of the person deceased, with attendants of kindred and friends, is an honour to the defunct. Hezekiah (saith the text) slept with his fathers, 2. Chro ●2. 3● and they buried him in the highest sepulchre of the sons of David: and all judah, and the inhabitants of jerusalem, did him honour at his death. We commend (many of us I am sure do) that good work of Richard Fox, Bishop of Winchester, who caused the bones, and other relics of such sacred Princes, and sainted Prelates, as there had been buried in that Church, and dispersed abroad in several odd corners, to be placed together in seemly monuments, upon the top of the new partition built by himself for the same purpose. And likewise we cannot but love the memory of such, who upon the dissolution, and final destruction of our religious structures, caused so many funeral monuments, with the bodies therein included, to be removed into other neighbouring Churches, where by all likelihood, they may rest in peace and safety, until the last sound of the Trumpet. In the works of Aurelius Prudentius Clemens (a Spaniard by birth, an ancient Christian Poet, Pet Opmer. opu● Chronog ad. An. 408. and one, Qui palmam inter omnes Christianos Poetas obtinuit; who flourished about four hundred years after the incarnation of our Lord and Saviour) I find this Funeral Hymn following, of which (and not impertinently) I may make some use here in this place, translated by Sir john Beaumond Baronet. O God, Hym. 10. the souls pure fiery spring, Who different natures wouldst combine: That man whom thou to life didst bring; By weakness may to death decline. By thee they both are framed aright, They by thy hand united be; And while they join with growing might, Both flesh and spirit live to thee: But when division them recalls, They bend their course to several ends; Into dry earth the body falls, The fervent soul to heaven ascends: For all created things at length, By slow corruption growing old, Must needs forsake compacted strength, And disagreeing webs unfold. But thou, dear Lord, hast means prepared, That death in thine may never reign, And hast undoubted ways declared, How members lost may rise again: That while those generous rays are bound In prison under fading things; That part may still be stronger found, Which from above directly springs. If man with base thoughts possessed, His will in earthly mud shall drown; The soul with such a weight oppressed, Is by the body carried down: But when she mindful of her birth, Herself from ugly spots debars; She lifts her friendly house from earth, And bears it with her to the stars. See how the empty body lies, Where now no lively soul remains; Yet when short time with swiftness flies, The height of senses it regains▪ Those ages shall be soon at hand, When kindly heat the bones revives; And shall the former house command, Where living blood it shall infuse. Dull carcases to dust now worn, Which long in graves corrupted lay, Shall to the nimble air be borne, Where souls before have led the way. Hence comes it to adorn the grave, With careful labour men affect: The limbs dissolved last honour have, And funeral Rites with pomp are decked. The custom is to spread abroad White linens, graced with splendour pure, Sabaean myrrh on bodies strowed Preserves them from decay secure. The hollow stones by carvers wrought▪ Which in fair Monuments are laid, Declare that pledges thither brought, Are not to death, but sleep conveyed. The pious Christians thus ordain, Believing with a prudent eye That those shall rise and live again, Who now in freezing slumbers lie. He that the dead (dispersed in fields) In pity hides, with heaps of moulds, To his Almighty Saviour yields A work, which he with joy beholds: The same Law warns us all to groan, Whom one severe condition ties, And in another's death to moon All funerals, as of our allies. That reverend man in goodness bred, Who blessed Tobias did beget, Preferred the burial of the dead Before his meat, though ready set; He, while the servants waiting stand, Forsakes the cups, the dishes leaves, And digs a grave with speedy hand, Which with the bones his tears receives. Rewards from heaven t●is work requite: No slender price is here repaid, God clears the eyes that saw no light, While fishes gall on them is laid. Then the Creator would descry How far from reason they are led Who sharp and bitter things apply, To souls on which new light is spread. He also taught that to no wight, The heavenly kingdom can be seen, Till vexed with wounds and darksome night, He in the world's rough waves ●ath been▪ The curse of death a blessing finds; Because by this tormenting woe Steep ways lie plain to spotless minds, Who to the Stars by sorrows go. The bodies which long perished lay, Return to live in better years, That union never shall decay, Where after death new warmth appears. The face where now pale colour dwells, Whence foul infection shall arise, The flowers in splendour then excels, When blood the skin with beauty dies. No age by Times imperious law, With envious prints the forehead dims: No drought, no leanness then can draw The moisture from the withered limbs. Diseases which the body eat, Infected with oppressing pains, In midst of torments than shall sweat, Imprisoned in a thousand chains. The conquering flesh immortal grows, Beholding from the skies above, The endless groaning of her foes, For sorrows which from them did move. Why are undecent howl mixed By living men in such a case? Why are decrees so sweetly fixed? Reproved with discontented face? Let all complaints and murmurs fail; Ye tender mothers stay your tears, Let none their children dear bewail, For life renewed in death appears. So buried seeds, though dry and dead, Again with smiling greenness spring: And from the hollow furrows bred, Attempt new ears of corn to bring. Earth, take this man with kind embrace, In thy soft bosom him conceive: For humane members here I place, And generous parts in trust I leave. This house, the soul her guest once felt, Which from the Maker's mouth proceeds: Here sometime fervent wisdom dwelled; Which Christ the Prince of wisdom breeds. A covering for this body make, The Author never will forget His works; nor will those looks forsake In which he hath his picture set. For when the course of time is past, And all our hopes fulfilled shall be, Thou opening, must restore at last The limbs in shape, which now we see. Nor if long age with powerful reign, Shall turn the bones to scattered dust; And only ashes shall retain, In compass of an handful thrust: Nor if swift floods, or strong command Of winds through empty air have tossed The members with the flying sand; Yet man is never fully lost. O God, while mortal bodies are Recalled by thee, and formed again, What happy seat wilt thou prepare, Where spotless souls may safe remain: In Abraham's bosom they shall lie Like Lazarus, whose flowery crown The rich man doth far off espy, While him sharp fiery torments drown. Thy words, O Saviour, we respect, Whose triumph drives black death to loss, When in thy steps thou wouldst direct The Thief thy fellow on the Crosse. The faithful see a shining way, Whose length to Paradise extends, This can them to those trees convey, Lost by the Serpent's cunning ends. To Thee I pray, most certain Guide: O let this soul which thee obeyed, In her fair birthplace pure abide, From which she, banished, long hath strayed. While we upon the covered bones Sweet Violets and leaves will throw: The title and the cold hard stones, Shall with our liquid odours flow, CHAP. VI Of the care and cost anciently used in the preserving whole and entire the bodies of the dead. Strange ways, customs, and fashions of burial. AS in former times the most of all Nations were ardently desirous of decent burial; so Histories do show that the Ancients, and namely the Egyptians, were no less careful, and curious to preserve whole and entire, the bodies of the dead laid within their Sepulchers, and to keep them from putrefaction, so much as they could possible, which they did by this means. So soon as any one amongst them (especially of exemplary note) was dead, they would draw out the brains of the defunct, at the nostrils, with an instrument of iron, replenishing the same with preservative spices; then cutting up the belly with an Aethiopian stone, called Laigne, and extracting the bowels, they cleansed the inside with wine, and stuffing the same with a composition of Cassia, myrrh, and other odours, closed it again. The like the poorer sort of people effected with Bitumen (as the inside of their skulls and bellies yet testify, saith Sandus, lib. 2 who saw such their strange embalmed bodies) fetched from the lake of Asphaltis in Iury. So did they by the juice of Cedars, which by the extreme bitterness and siccative quality, not only subdued (forthwith) the cause of interior corruption, but hath to this day (a continuance of above three thousand years) preserved them uncorrupted. Within their bellies (besides their odorous compositions) they enclosed certain painted papers; and strange shapes of their Gods, in little models of stone or mettle: this done, they wrapped the body with linen in multitudes of folds, besmeared with gum in manner of a cerecloth, swathled with bands of the same; staining their breasts with Hierogliphycall characters; and so laid them down in such vaults, as did belong to every man's particular family. Camerar, Lib. 1. cap. 25. in his Hist. Meditations, saith, That the Ancients fixed nails of brass; within their dead bodies knowing well that brass is a metal very solid and lasting, in which quality both Horace and Virgil do commend it: that it keepeth a long time from rust and corruption, and that it is endued with a particular virtue against putrefaction. And not long since (saith he) there was found in a certain wood near to Nuremburgh very ancient Tombs, and amongst the bones of the dead, nails and buckles of brass. It is reported by Fulgosus, and other foreign Authors, as also by our own countrymen, William of Malmesbury, and Matthew of Westminster; that in the year of Grace, one thousand thirty and seven, the body of Pallas, the son of evander, slain by Turnus in single combat, was found, and taken up in Rome, entire and sound in all parts, to the great astonishment of the beholders, in that it had triumphed so many ages over all corruption. At his head was found * The like found at the suppression of Abbays in 〈…〉. a burning lamp, which could not be extinguished, neither by violence of blast, nor by aspersion of liquor. Upon whose tomb this Epitaph following was then found. Filius Euandri Pallas, quem laurea Turni Militis occidit; more suo iacet hic. Pallas Euanders' son, by Turnus' spear In combat slain; on this wise lieth here. Within the Parish of Stepney in Midlesex, in Radcliffe field, where they take ballast for ships; about some fourteen or fifteen years ago, there was found two Monuments, the one of stone, wherein was the bones of a man, the other a chest of lead, the upper part being garnished with Scallop shells, and a crotister border. At the head of the coffin, and the foot, there were two jars, of a three foot length, standing, and on the sides a number of bottles of glistering red earth, some painted, and many great viols of glass, some six, some eight square; having a whitish liquor within them Within the chest was the body of a woman, as the Chirurgeons judged by the skull. On either side of her, there was two sceptres of ivory, eighteen inches long, and on her breast a little figure of Cupid neatly cut in white stone. And amongst the bones two printed pieces of jet, with round heads, in form of nails three inches long. It seemeth (saith Sir Robert Cotton, from whom I had this relation) these bodies were burned about the year of our Lord 239. being, there were ●ound diverse coins of Pupienus, Gordian, and the Emperors of that time. And that one may conjecture by her ornaments, that this last body should be some Princes or Propretors' wife here in Britain, in the time of the Roman government. In the North isle of the Parish-church of Newport painell in Buckinghamshire, in the year 1619. was found the body of a man whole and perfect; laid down, or rather leaning down, North, and South▪ all the concavous parts of his body, and the hollowness of every bone, as well ribs as other, were filled up with solid lead. The skull with the lead in it doth weigh thirty pounds and six ounces, which with the neckbone, and some other bones (in like manner full of lead) are reserved, and kept in a little chest in the said Church, near to the place where the corpse were found; there to be shown to strangers as relics of admiration. The rest of all the parts of his body are taken away by Gentlemen near dwellers, or such as take delight in rare Antiquities. This I saw. Thus you see by the premises, how magnificent our Ancients were in the ordering and expenses of Funerals; how sumptuous in their houses of death or sepulchers; and how careful to preserve their dead carcases from putrefaction; for so much as the soul, saith Sandys, knowing itself by divine instinct immortal, doth desire that the body (her beloved companion) might enjoy (as far forth as may be) the like felicity, giving, by erecting lofty Monuments, and these dues of Funeral, all possible eternity. But now judicious Reader understand, that howsoever I have spoken, or whatsoever I shall speak hereafter of burial, and the ceremonies thereunto belonging: De 〈◊〉. Des. cap. 11. yet I speak now out of Saint Augustine and Ludovicus Vtues his Commentor, that it is not prejudicial to a Christian soul to be forbidden burial. For although the Psalmist complains (as I have said before) how that none would bury the dead bodies of God's servants; yet this was spoken to intimate their villainy which did it; rather than their misery which suffered it. For though that unto the eyes of man, these acts seem bloody and tyrannous, yet precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his Saints. And our faith, holding fast the promise, is not so frail, as to think that the ravenous beasts can deprive the body of any part to be wanting in the resurrection; where not a hair of the head shall be missing; a new restitution of our whole bodies being promised to all of us in a moment, not only out of the earth alone, but even out of the most secret angles of all the other elements, wherein any body is or can be possibly included. A bad death never follows a good life, for there is nothing that maketh death bad, but that estate which followeth death. What power then hath the horror of any kind of death, or the want of burial, to affright their souls that have led a virtuous life? Quo loco, quo modo, quo tempore, fiat haec emigratio, quid interest? undique Christi fidelibus ●d coelestia regna patet aditus. The family of the gorgeous rich glutton, prepared him a sumptuous funeral unto the eyes of men, but one fare more sumptuous, did the ministering Angels prepare for the ulcered beggar, in the sight of God. They bore him not into any Sepulchre of marble, but placed him in the bosom of Abraham. Lucan's Pharsalia, the ninth book, speaking of great Pompey, who wanted a Tomb, tells us how that his spirit ascended up to the heavens; to which habitation few come that are entombed in rich and sumptuous monuments, thus. The eternal Spheres his glorious spirit doth hold; To which come few, with incense buried, tombed in gold. And the said Lucan in his seventh book, speaking of the dead, that Caesar forbade should be burned, or buried, after he hath brought forth many grave sentences concerning this matter of burial, at length thus concludes, speaking as it were passionately unto Caesar. This anger boots thee not; for 'tis all one Whether the fire, or putrefaction Dissolve them; all to Nature's bosom go, And to themselves their ends the bodies owe. If now these Nations, Caesar, be not burned, They shall, when earth and seas to flames are turned; One fire shall burn the world, and with the sky Shall mix these bones: where ere thy soul shall be, Their souls shall go; in air thou shalt not fly Higher, nor better in Avernus' lie. Death frees from fortune: Earth receives again What ever she brought forth: and they obtain Heaven's coverture, that have no urns at all▪ Ae●. l. ●● So Virgil who appoints a place of punishment in hell for the unburied, yet in Anchises his words, he shows how small the loss of a grave is. But to conclude with mine Author Saint Augustine. If the necessaries of man's life, as meat, and clothing, though they be wanting in great extremity, yet cannot subvert the good man's patience, nor draw him from goodness; how much less power shall those things have, which are omitted in the burying of the dead, to afflict the souls that are already at quiet in the secret receptacles of the righteous. And whereas in the bloody overthrow of many fierce battles; in the sacking and subversion of many Towns and Cities, the bodies of the Christians have wanted the rites and ceremonies of burial; it was neither fault in the living that could not perform them, nor hurt to the dead that could not feel them. Yet notwithstanding all this which I have spoken, the bodies of the dead are not to be contemned, and cast away, especially of the righteous and faithful, which the holy Ghost hath used as Organs, and instruments unto all good works; for if the garment or ring of ones father, be so much the more esteemed of his posterity, by how much they held him dearer in their affection; then are not our bodies to be despised, being we wear them more near unto ourselves, than any attire whatsoever. CHAP. VII. Of Cenotaphs, honorary and religious. Of the reverence attributed to these empty Monuments. A Cenotaph is an empty Funeral Monument or Tomb, erected for the honour of the dead, wherein neither the corpse, nor relics of any defunct, are deposited, in imitation of which our Hearses here in England are set up in Churches, during the continuance of a year, or for the space of certain months. Octavia the sister of Augustus, buried her son, young Marcellus, that should have been heir in the Empire, with six hundred Cenotaphs or hearses: and gave to Virgil more than five thousand French crowns, in reward; for the writing of six and twenty Hexameters in her son's commendation: all which you may have for nothing, in the latter end of the sixth book of his Aeneidos. These Cenotaphs were of two sorts: they were made either to the memory of such as were buried in some other remote funeral monument; or to such which had no burial at all: The first kind of these Cenotaphs are called by Suetonius in the life of Claudius, honorary tombs; erected Honoris vel memoriae gratia. Such as the soldiers made to the memory of Drusus, near upon the river of Rhine, howsoever his body was carried to Rome, and there interred in Campo Martio. Alexander Severus (slain by the treachery of certain seditious French soldiers, about the year of grace 238) An Emperor (saith Sir Thomas Eliot, who translated his story out of Greek) whose death all Rome lamented, all good men bewailed, Some say he was slain here in England, some others in the City of Mentz in Germany. all the world repented, whom the Senate deified, noble fame renowned, all wise men honoured, noble writers commended) had his Cenotaph erected in France near unto the place where he was slain; but his body was carried to Rome, and there interred under a most rich magnificent sepulchre, as Lampridius affirms. Septimius Severus the Roman Emperor died in York, in the year of man's salvation 212. out of which City his corpse were carried forth to the funeral fire, by the sixth Legion of his soldiers, called Victrix; after the military fashion, Camd. in York. committed to the flames, and honoured with jousts and Turneaments, in a place near beneath the City Westward, where is to be seen a great mount of earth raised up as for his Cenotaph. But his ashes, being bestowed in a little golden pot, or vessel of the Porpherite-stone, were carried to Rome, and shrined there in the Monument of the antonine. Constantine, or Constantius, the younger son to Constantine the Great, who is supposed to be the builder of Silcester in Hampshire, died at Mopsuestia in Cilicia, Camd. in Hamp. and was interred in Constantinople in the Sepulchre of his Ancestors. Yet he had a Cenotaph, or empty monument, built to his memory, in the said now-ruined City of Silcester. And many there were that, in honour and remembrance of them, had such monuments built, about which the soldiers were wont yearly to just, and keep solemn Turneaments in honour of the dead. The second kind of Cenotaphs were made Religionis causa, to the memory of such whose carcases, or dispersed relics, were in no wise to be found, for example, of such as perished by shipwreck, of such as were slain, cut, mangled, and hewed apieces in battle, or of such that died in foreign nations; whose burials were unknown. For in ancient times it was thought, that the Ghost of the defunct could not rest in any place quietly, before the body had decent burial, or the performance thereof, in as ample manner as could possibly be imagined. Aeneas (as it is feigned) by the help of Sibylla Cumea, descending into hell, found Palinurus his shipmaster (drowned not long before) among many more wand'ring about the lake of Styx, Vir. Aen. l. 6. because his body was unburied: which kind of punishment is thus related by the Prophetess; Phaers translation. This press that here thou seest been people dead, not laid in grave, A piteous rabble poor that no relief nor comfort have: This Boatman Charon is. And those whom now this water bears, Are bodies put in ground, with worship due of weeping tears. Nor from these fearful banks, nor rivers hoarse they passage get: Till under earth in graves their bodies bones at rest are set. An hundred years they walk, and round about these shores they have, And then at last (full glad) to further pools they do remove. Then after this she puts him in comfort with hope of Exequys and honourable burial, thus. Since when, O Palinure, both all this madness come on thee? Wouldst thou the Limbo-lake, and doleful floods untombed see? Unbidden from this bank dost thou indeed to scape intend? Seek never Gods eternal doom, with speech to think to bend. Yet take with thee Aeneas word, and comfort thus thy fall, For they that border next unto that mount, and Cities all, By token's great from heaven shall be compelled thy bones to take, And tomb they shall thee build, and solemn service shall thee make. And Palinurus name for evermore the place shall keep. This spoken, from his heavy heart his cares abating creep, And sorrows partly shrank; and glad on earth his name he knew. Ulysses' at the commandment of Circe's went down into the lower shades, where he met with his companion, or fellow-traveller Elpenor, who desired of him burial, H●●. ●●yss. ●. ij. with the ceremonies thereof; as also a Sepulchre, which Ulysses granted and erected to his memory a Cenotaph. Do not depart from hence, and leave me thus Vnmournd, unburied; lest neglected I Bring on thyself th'▪ incensed Deity. I know, that saind from hence, thy ship must touch On th'Isle Aeaea, where vouchsafe thus much, (Good King) that landed, thou wilt instantly, Bestow on me thy royal memory. And on the foamy shore a Sepulchre Erect to me, that after times may hear Of one so hapless. Let me these implore; And fix upon my Sepulchre the Ore, With which alive I shook the aged Seas, And had of friends the dear societies. To these inania busta, or vacua Sepulchra, the friends of the defunct would yearly repair, and there offer sacrifice, upon Altars erected near to the Cenotaph for that purpose, calling upon the spirit, ghost, or Manes of him, to whose memory the Cenotaph was made, by which ceremony they imagined, that the body of the party deceased, would lie some where or other at re●●, and his ghost would give over walking, as though all the dues of funeral had been really performed to him at his death: Parental. in praef. as in Ausonius. Voce ciere animas, funeris instar habet. And aga●ne. Ille etiam moesti cui defuit urna sepulchri, Nomine ter dicto paene sepultus erit. Aeneas saluted the soul of Deiphobus, the son of old Priam, at his Cenotaph after the same manner. — The rumour went, Virgil. l. 6. Aen. How in the night extreme of Greekish slaughters weary spent; Thou headlong threw'st thyself on mixed heap of enemies slain: Then I myself to thee, an empty Tomb on Rheta plain Advancing up did build, and thrice thy soul saluted clear; Thy name, and arms that place preserves, but thee O friend so dear, Could I not see, that in thy countrey-ground I might inter. Then Deiphobus said, Nothing sweet friend can I require; All duties done thou hast, nor more my ghost can thee desire. You have the manner of sacrificing about these Cenotaphs expressed in Virgil, lib. 3. Aen. where Andromache celebrates the Anniversary of her slain husband arme-puissant Hector, thus. Great sacrifice by chance that time, and gifts with heavy mind Before the Town in greenwood shade, by Simois water side, Andromache to Hector's dust with service did provide; And dainties great of meat she brought, and on his soul she cried At Hector's Tomb; that green with grass, and turfs stood her beside. And causes more to mourn, thereby two Altars had she set. The solemnity of Polydores obit at his empty hearse; is described in the said book much what after the same manner: Anon therefore to Polydore an Hearse we 'gan prepare, And huge in height his Tomb we rear; all Altars hanged are, With weeds of mourning hues, and cypress trees, and black device: And Trojan wives with hair disclosed, as is their guise. Great foamy bowls of milk we threw lukewarm on him to fall, And holy blood in basons brought we pour, and last of all We shrieked, and on his soul our last, with great outcries we call. And much what to the same purpose are these verses in Ovid's Metam. lib. 6. fab. 7. Progne, her royal ornaments rejects, And puts on black: an empty Tomb erects To her imagined ghost: oblations burns: Her sister's fate, not as she should, she mourns. To the memory of the Grecians slain in the wars of Troy, Pausa. in Corinthiacis. a Cenotaph was set up at Corinth. In the expedition of Cyrus, Xenophon lib. 6. an empty sepulchre was built for the slain and mangled soldiers, whose relics could not be found. The Romans, Tacit. li, Annal. cap. 23. six years after the slaughter made by Arminius of so many of their Legions; erected a Cenotaph, or covered with earth the remains of their friends and kindred, howsoever it was uncertain whether they buried the stranger or friend. And Caesar to show a grateful memory of the dead, and himself to be partaker of their grief, with his own hands put the first turf on their Tombs. The Primitive Christians did exhibit a religious honour to the Cenotaphs of holy men (to whose memory many in those days were erected) which for the profession of the Gospel had suffered martyrdom, or undergone those variety of torments, which were as then inflicted upon the faithful: as you may read in Theodoret. lib. de Martyr. and in these Sapphics of Aurelius Prudentius. Per● Stephanon. Hy●nus 4. Nun, Vincenti, peregre necatus Martyr, his terris tenui notasti Sanguinis rore speciem futuri morte propinqua? Hoc colunt cives velut ipsa membra Cespes includat suus, & paterno Seruet amplectens tumulo beati Martyris ossa. It was, and is the use in most countries, to inscribe these empty monuments, as real sepulchers, with the names and titles of the defunct, to whose honour they were intended. As in Ouid. Meta, lib. 11. fab. 10. Seas fright me with their tragical aspect, Of late I saw them on the shore eiect Their scattered wracks, and often I have read Sad names on Sepulchers that want their dead. And a little after in the same fable, where Alcyone mourns for her drowned husband Ceix, thus. — would I with thee Had put to sea: a happy fate for me; Then both together all the time assigned For life had lived; nor in our death disjoind Now here, I perished there: on that profound, Poor I was wracked; yet thou without me drowned. O I, than floods more cruel, should I strive To lengthen life, and such a grief survive; Nor will I, nor forsake thee, nor defer. Though one urn hold not both, one Sepulchre Shall join our titles: though thy bones from mine The seas dissever, yet our names shall join. Death choked the rest.— Our Ancients accustomed likewise to garnish, deck, and adorn these cenotaphs, as other tombs or sepulchers; and that with all kind of reverence: and whosoever did deface, or break down, any of these honorary void Monuments, exemplary punishment was inflicted upon the party so offending, as upon your Tumboruchoi or grave-diggers. But I will conclude this chapter with this difference of Sepulchers and Cenotaphs; as I find it recorded by Scipio Gentilis, Sepulchrorum sanctitas, saith he, in ipso solo est, quod nulla vi moveri neque deleri potest. Cenotaphiorum vero in ipsa religione & reverentia vivorum, quae & mutari & deleri potest. CHAP. VIII. Of the sanctity ascribed sometimes to ancient Funeral monuments; and of the ardent desire most men have, and ever had, to visit the Tombs and Sepulchers of eminent worthy persons. FVnerall Monuments (especially of the godly and religious) have ever been accounted sacred. Batti veteris sacrum Sepulchrum. The sacred Sepulchre Of old Bat, lo is here. saith Catullus. To which effect, Quintilian, Declam. 10. Sacratos morte lapides, etiam ossa & cineres, & ossa religiosè quiescentia fracta sparsisset urna. And they were accounted the more sacred, by how much they were of more continuance. Sepulchra sanctiora sunt vetustate, saith Ulpian. And as in the Se●pulchres themselves, there was ever holden to be a kind of sancti●ie; so there was holden to be the like or more holiness in the soil whereupon these sepulchers were made and erected. And such a holiness, as I have said before, quod nulla vi moveri neque deleri potest; and more especially in that ground, wherein the bodies of Christians were interred, by reason of the sanctified corpse that it received. It is an use in some parts of Ireland (as yet not altogether abolished) for children to swear by their forefather's hand, or by their Lord's hand. And in the country where I was borne, the vulgar sort especially, do most commonly swear by the cross of their own Parish Kirke, as they call it, and in ancient times children used to swear, by the Sepulchers of their parents. Others by the sepulchers of such persons, who in their life time were reputed honourable amongst them, either in regard of the worthiness of their person, or of the eminence of place of government which they held in the weal public. And by these oaths (the things themselves being reverently esteemed, and accounted sacred) their assertions or asseverations were always holden the better to be believed. I read in the Sto●ehouse of Times, lib. 8. cap. 12. Part. 1. that a Master bearing his Slave near to the Temple of Apollo; the Slave fled from him, and knowing that the Temple afforded refuge, ran thereinto, and mounting up to the Altar embraced the image His Lord pursued him, and having forcibly recovered him from the Statue without any reverence of the place, began again to give him many Bastonadoes. The servant fled from him once more, and ran to save himself at the Tomb of his Lords deceased Father: but then, in mere paternal duty, he left punishing him any more, and pardoned him the fault which he had committed. In such reverend and religious regard the very Pagans had the Tombs of their Ancestors. But, with us, in these days, I see no such reverence that sons have to their father's hands, or to their Sepulchers. I hear no swearing by Kirkes', Crosses, or Sepulchers. I hear sometimes, I must confess, for swearing to build Churches; swearing to pull down crosses, and to deface or quite demolish all Funeral Monuments; swearing and protesting that all these are remains of Antichrist, papistical and damnable. Now to come to the other part of this Chapter. All men in general are taken with an earnest desire to see ancient great Cities; yea and the very tract where such cities were in former times situated, howsoever they be destroyed, laid level with the ground, and their very ruins altogether ruined: I will instance with the glory of Asia, Troy Ouid. Met. l. 15. So rich, so powerful, that so proudly stood, That could for ten years' space spare so much blood, Now prostrate, only her old ruins shows, And Tombs that famous Ancestors enclose. Now although these ruins, and ruined Tombs, are at this day no more but coniecturally extant: as Sandys writes, who viewed the circuit of ground whereupon it once stood. And that jam seges est ubi Troia fuit. Corn now grows where Troy once stood. Yet like him we daily know many Travellers sailing near thereunto, to be desirous to see those celebrated fields, that afforded to rarest wits so plentiful an argument. And so we read how that in former times, many took the like pains to behold this City so renowned throughout the whole Universe. For example, the great Alexander. Earth's fatal mischief, and a cloud of thunder Rending the world, a star that struck asunder The Nations. as Lucan calls him: having read many heroical actions performed at the besieging of this City, made it in his journey to see it; and finding it laid desert, caused it to be re-edified; gave great immunities and privileges to the inhabitants, whom he exempted from ordinary Tributes, and instituted their Free-martes, or Markets, for all such as would dwell there, or negotiate with them. Ouid. l. 25. That blazing Comet, julius Caesar, who darted his rays over so many regions. Who did the habitable earth command, And stretched his Empire over sea and land. goes in person to behold that farre-famed City; where treading upon Hector's grave-stone, hid with rubbish, and grown over with grass, he is found fault withal by a Phrygian, thus. Respect you not great Hector's Tomb, quoth he, but for all this reprehension Lucn. l. 9 Sacked Troyes yet honoured name he goes about, To find th'old wall of great Apollo out. Now fruitless trees, old oaks with putrified And rotten roots the Trojan houses hide, And Temples of their Gods, all Troy's o'erspread With bushes thick, her ruins ruined He sees the bridal grove, etc. And being pleased with the sight of these Antiquities, he offers sacrifice to the ghost of Hector, and to the rest of those magestic Heroes, or halfgods, there interred: promising withal (conditionally) to build up anew this City of Troy. Then Caesar pleased with sight of these so praised Antiquities, a green turf altar raised, And by the Frankincense-fed fire prepared These orisons not vain; you Gods that guard These Hero's dust, and in Troy's ruins reign: Aeneas household gods, that still maintain In Alba and Lavinia your shrines, Upon whose altars fire yet Trojan shyves; Thou sacred Temple closed Palladium, That in the sight of man didst never come; The greatest heir of all julus' race, Here in your former seat implores your grace, And pious uses on your altars lays; Prosper my course, and thankful Rome shall raise Troy's walls again; your people I'll restore, And build a Roman Troy. Marcus Aurelius, Dioclesian, and Claudius, Roman Emperors, potent, and mighty, took pains to travel from Rome to this City of Troy, only to take survey of what venerable antiquities were as then remaining; and to leave memory to posterity of their being there, they caused a goodly column of white marble to be therein erected, whereupon were engraven these words following. Imperator. Caesar. Mar. Aur. Pius. Foelix. Parthicus Maximus, Trib. Pleb. Imp. P.X.U. Cons. III. Provinciam Asiam, per viam, & flumina pontibus subiugavit. And on the other side of the said pillar was likewise engraven, Imperator Caesar Augustus Dioclesiano. P. Cos. 11. regnante Tribunicia vicit potestate. M.F.T. & Claudius, C. VIII. P.R. But to come nearer home; who hath ever read or credibly heard of the magnificency of that capacious City of Verulam (of which I have spoken before) so much renowned for so many memorable exploits, but more especially for the invincible constancy, and resolute suffering, of our Protomartyr, Saint Alban, that would not desire to see the place where it sometimes stood? howsoever Of it there now remains no memory, Spons. Ruins of Time. Nor any little monument to see, By which the Traveller, that fares that way, This once was she, may warned be to say. Who would not see, if he could with conveniency, the situation of Silcester in Hampshire, having read in our ancient Historiographers, how famous it was in the time of Constantius the son of great Constantine, and how that our first Christian worthy, king Arthur, was there invested with the royal Diadem? howsoever, no marks are at this day remaining to show that ever it was a City; save a wall of two miles in compass, containing within fourscore Acres of ground, divided into certain cornfields. The seeing of places, we know to have been frequented or inhabited by men, whose memory is esteemed, or mentioned in stories, doth move and stir us up as much, or more, than the hearing of their noble deeds, or reading of their compositions▪ With the like desire (or more than they have to see these old Cities entombed in their own ruins) many men take pains with far travel, to view strange cities, famous and flourishing in their own country, or in foreign Nations. What stranger, or homebred countryman, would not ardently long to see our rich, powerful, and imperial City of London; when he reads or hears how spacious, how populous, how plenteous, and how fair builded it is? And who would not covet to see Paris, hearing that it is the capital City of France; and as some will have it, of all Europe, far greater fairer built, and better situate than London. And who would not visit Rome, if abilities of body and means were all-sufficient, his occasions would permit, and that with safety he might; it being a city, Laudandis pretiosior ruinis: Even made more honourable By ruins memorable. Moun. 〈…〉 Cap. ●. As Mountaigne writes, and as I myself, being there, did also observe; A City whose ruin is glorious with renown, and swollen with glory; for low-levelled as she lieth, and even in the Tomb of her glory, yet for all this she reserveth the lively image and regardful marks of Empire. And, above the rest, who would not ardently desire to see jerusalem that holy City with the sepulchre, having heard or read the sacred Scriptures; or such historical Authors as have written of the same? Considering then that the most of men do earnestly desire, Ulysses like Qui mores hominum multorum vidit, & urbes. to see ancient great cities (observing ever their government, with the manners of the Inhabitants) either flourishing, quite fallen down, or partly ruined; So all men (a snifling conventicle or company of proud Sectaries excepted) are as greedily affected to view the sacred Sepulchers of worthy, famous personages, yea and the very places, where such have been interred, although no Funeral Monument at all be there remaining, to continue their memories: This desire made Alexander the great, in his Asian expedition, go to visit the Tomb of Achilles, which he covered with flowers, and ran naked about it (as then the custom was in funerals) sacrificing to the ghost of his kinsman, whom he reputed most happy, that had such a Trumpet as Homer to resound his virtues; and weeping over the Tomb, complained that he was not so fortunate, as to have a man that could so well publish his praises, as Homer had done those of Achilles. The sight of all the far-famed Antiquities of Egypt did not so much de●●ght Caesar, as the sight of the Tomb of Alexander. Caesar in Egypt fearless walks and sees Lucan in the Argument. Their Temples, Tombs, and famed Antiquity▪ afterwards in the book,— he goes from thence To Alexandria, crowned with confidence. — then goes he● The stately Temple of th'old God to see; Which speaks the ancient Macedonian greatness But there delighted with no objects sweetness, Not with their gold, nor Gods majestic dress Nor lofty City walls; with greediness Into the burying vault goes Caesar down▪ There Macedonian Philip's mad-braind son The prosperous Thief, lies buried▪ whom just 〈◊〉 Slew in the world's revenge Augustus his successor, Emperor of Rome, went with the like desire, or more, to see the said Tomb of Alexander; And not contented with the bare sight of the Sepulchre, Corpus Alexandri inspexit, idque attrectavit ita ut nasi quoque (ita enim fertur) particulam aliquam fregerit: he would needs look into the Tomb and behold the body of the world's terror, Alexander, which he so feelingly handled, that he broke a little part of Alexander's Nose: as it is reported. But to come to ourselves; What concourse of people come daily, to view the lively Statues and stately Monuments in Westminster Abbey wherein the sacred ashes of so many of the Lords anointed, beside other great Potentates are entombed. A sight which brings delight and admiration, and strikes a religious apprehension into the minds of the beholders. We desire likewise to behold the mournful ruins of other religions houses, although their goodly fair structures be altogether destroyed, their tombs battered down, and the bodies of their dead cast out of their coffins; for that, that very earth which did sometimes cover the corpse of the defunct, puts us in mind of our mortality, and consequently brings us to unfeigned repentance. What numbers of Citizens and others at this very time, go to Lesnes Abbey in Kent, to see some few coffins there lately found in her ruins, wherein are the remains of such as have been there anciently interred; of which, when I come to speak of her Foundation. Neither can we pass by, but with yearning hearts look upon that fattened soil (the fertile seedplot of the Church) which in former times hath been sprinkled with the blood, blacked with the cinders, and straw with the ashes, of those blessed Saints, who for the profession of the Gospel, by sword, fire, and faggot, have suffered most cruel martyrdom: giving reverence and honour to their memories, because by their sufferings true Religion was propagated, and all idolatry demolished: which we may lawfully do, as unto God's chief champions standing unto death for the truth. And as unto men whom God hath advanced into the society of his Angels in heaven; giving also thanks, at these Martyrs and Saints solemn feasts, to God for their victories, endeavouring the attainment of such crowns and glories as they have already attained; with other religious performances due unto them▪ as ornaments of their memories. Provided always that we do not intermi●e out devotions with superstitious adoration. CHAP. IX. Of the punishments both by humane jaws, and Gods severe justice, ●●flicted upon such malefactors in foregoing ages, who violated Sepulchers▪ Of Church-robbers. THose ●in foregoing ages) which did violate, misuse, or distain tombs, graves, sepulchres, or any of these funeral Monuments, were punished richer with death, perpetual exile, condemnation to the mines, banishment for a time, payment of money, forfeiture of goods, loss of members, or the like according to the quality of the person, and circumstance of the fact. To begin with the Clergy▪ ● Priest found guilty of this execrable act (being so much more odious, by how much his place was reputed more honourable and religious) was degraded from his Priesthood, his goods set to open sale, and forfeited, and himself condemned to perpetual banishment. If a man of eminent place, of great riches, rank, and quality, did with an aimed hand, despoil any Tomb or Sepulchre, Latronis more, after the manner of an highway robber, that man by the Law was put to execution; if unaimed, than the judge did send him to the Mines, or to banishment, or punish him with some pecuniary mulct, to the value, most commonly, of half his goods, and branded him with eternal infamy. If a Servant, or a man of mean fortunes, was known to pull down, or deface any funeral Monument, without his master's privity, he was condemned to the Mines; if he had been urged thereunto by his master, than he was adjudged for a time to be banished; if he did dig up, and draw out of the grave, the body or bones of the defunct, than his judgement was death. If any man did deface, or cut away any part of the Effigies or representation of the defunct, carved, engraven, or embossed, upon any grave-stone, tomb, or sepulchre, that man by the law was to lose his hand. Whosoever in the repairing of any ruinous decayed Sepulchre, did any way undecently touch the body of the dead person, therein laid down to his eternal rest▪ that party so offending, was commanded by the Law, De●em pondo auri Fisco infer, to bring ten pound weight of gold into the exchequer: But the most execrable and hellish abuse of all other offered to the dead, is effected by witchcraft, incantation, and Art-magicke; an art, saith Quin●●l●a●s, Declam. 15. which is said to disquiet the Gods, to trouble and displace the stars, to search into the graves and sepulchers of the dead, to mutilate, dismember, and cut off, certain parts of the carcases therein inhumed, and by those pairings and cuttings, together with certain horrid enchantments, charms, and spells, to bring to pass strange, diabolical conclusions. The powerful force of which conjurers, witches, or infernal Hags is thus expressed by the ancient Poets. Skilled in black Arts, 〈…〉 8 she makes streams backward 〈◊〉 The virtues knows of weeds; of laces spun On wheels▪ and poison of a lust-stung more. Fair days makes cloudy, and the cloudy fa●●, Stars to drop blood, the moon look bloodily, And plumed (alive) doth through night's shadows fly The dead calls from their graves to further harms, And cleaves the solid earth with her long charms. She said her charms could ease one's heart of pain, Virg Ae●●●▪ Even when she list, and make him grieve again. S●op floods, bring back the stars, and with her breath Rouse the black fiends; until the earth beneath Groaned, and the trees came marching from the ●ills▪ These witches spells loves soft desires have sent Into the hardest hearts, 'gainst fate's intent▪ Severe old men have burned in impious love Which tempered drinks, and Philirums could not move. — the dull world a● their Lucan. lib ●▪ Dire voice, has been benumbed: great jupiter Urging their course, himself, admired to see The poles not moved by their swift axletree▪ Showers they have made; clouded the clearest sky; And he auen●as thundered, jove not knowing why. But not to speak thus in general of their power, and come nearer to the purpose: Sextus the son of great Pompey, desirous to know the event of the Pharsalian wars, consults thereof with the witch Erichtho, who, amongst many her powerful charms, resolves to take up the body of one lately buried, which she, by her Art-magicke, would conjure to disclose the sad issue of his and his father's fates: as it is thus in the Argument of the said sixth book. To the dire witch Erichtho, Sextus goes. This fatal wars sad issue to disclose: She quickens a dead carcase, which relates To Sextus ear, his and his Father's Fates, And craving then death's freedom to obtain, Is by a magic spell dissolved again. Now, in the book following, Lucan makes young Sextus thus to woe, and solicit the old witch Erichtho, for the speedy knowledge of the wars event. — thus Pompey's fearful son best a●e Wisest of all Thessalians, that canst make Foreknown all things to come, and turn a●ay The course of destiny, to me (I pray) The certain end of this wars chance relate. ● am ●o mean part of the Roman state: Great Pompey's son, now either Lord of all, ●r woeful heir of his great funeral. My mind, though ●ounded now with doubtful fear, ● well resolved any known woe to bear. 〈…〉 from chance this power, it may not fall 〈◊〉▪ and sudden on me, the Gods call, Or spare the Gods, and force the truth out from The ghosts below, open Elysium, ●all forth gr●m●●e death himself, bid him relate Which of the two is given to him by fate, T●is no mean task, but labour worthy thee To search what end of this great war shall be. The witch makes a replication, with an expression, as also a limitation, of her magic power, in these words. The impious witch proud of a fame so spread Replies, young man, wouldst thou have altered Some me●ner fate, it had been easily done; ● could have forced to any action 〈◊〉 unwilling Gods, I can preserve the breath Of him whom all the stars have doomed to death: And though the planets all conspire to make Him old, the midst of his life's course can break. But Fates, and thunder of great causes all Work downward from the world's original. When all mankind depend on one success, If there you would change aught, our arts confess ●ortune has greater power▪ but if content ●o● be alone to know this wars event, Many, and easy ways for us there be To find out truth, the earth, the sea, the sky, T●e dead, the Rodopeian rock, and fields Shall speak 〈◊〉. But since late slaughter yield Such choice of carcases in Thessaly 〈◊〉 up one of those who easiest be: That a warm new-slaine carcase with a clear intelligible voice may greet your ear▪ 〈◊〉 (by the sun the organs parched and spilt) The dismal ghost uncertain hissings yield. ●rictho having raised up a dead carcase, by her damnable incantations; and possessed his inward parts with some diabolical spirit, who by and thorough 〈…〉 gans might give to her and young Sextus some satisfactory answers, 〈◊〉 she goes forward with her demands. Speak (quoth Erichtho) what I ask, and well Shalt thou rewarded be: if truth thou tell, 〈◊〉 our Hamonian art I'll set thee free Throughout all ages, and bestow on thee Such funerals, with charms so burn thy bones, Thy ghost shall hear no incantations. Let this the fruit of thy reviuall be, No spells, no herbs shall dare to take from thee Thy long safe rest, when I have made thee die, The Gods, and Prophets answer doubtfully; But he, that dares inquire of ghosts beneath, And boldly go to th'oracles of death, Is plainly told the truth; spare not, but name Plainly the things, and places all, and frame A speech, wherein I may confer with fate▪ Adding a charm to make him know the state Of whatsoever she asked; thus presently The weeping carcase spoke. The devil in his conference with the Sompner (who to tell you by the way, — Is a renner up and down The de●●●●●ion of a Sompner, Chaucer in the ●riei● Prologue. With maundements, fornication And is y beat at every towns' end) Amongst other his subtleties relates this for one; by way of interrogation, thus. Yet tell me (quoth this Sompner) faithfully, Chaucer in the Friar's tale. Make ye you new bodies thus always Of elements? the fiend answered nay: Sometime we feign, and sometime we arise With dead bodies, and that in sundry wise, And speak as renably, fair and well As the Phitonesse did to Samuel. This violation or fearful disturbance of the dead, was punished with extreme tortures, and afterwards by decollation. Kelley (otherwise called Talbot) that famous English Alchemist of our times, who flying out of his own country (after he had lost both his cares at Lancaster) was entertained with Rodolph the second, and last of that Christian name, Emperor of Germany: for whom Elizabeth of famous memory, sent (very secretly) Captain Peter Gwinne, with some others, to persuade him to return back to his own native home; which he was willing to do: and thinking to escape away in the night, by stealth, as he was clammering over a wall in his own house in Prague (which bears his name to this day, and which sometime was an old Sanctuary) he fell down from the battlements, broke his legs, and bruised his body; of which hurts within a while after he departed this world. Sed quorsum haec, you will say: then thus, This diabolical questioning of the dead, for the knowledge of future accidents, was put in practice by the foresaid Kelley; who, upon a certain night, in the Park of Walton in le dale, in the county of Lancaster, with one Paul Waring (his fellow companion in such deeds of darkness) invocated some one of the infernal regiment, to know certain passages in the life, as also what might be known by the devil's foresight, of the manner and time of the death of a noble young Gentleman, as then in his wardship. The black ceremonies of that night being ended, Kelley demanded of one of the Gentleman's servants, what corpse was the last buried in Law-church-yard, a Church thereunto adjoining, who told him of a poor man that was buried there but the same day. He and the said Waring entreated this foresaid servant, to go with them to the grave of the man so lately interred, which he did; and withal did help them to dig up the carcase of the poor caitiff, whom by their incantations, they made him (or rather some evil spirit through his Organs) to speak, who delivered strange predictions concerning the said Gentleman. I was told thus much by the said Servingman, a secondary actor in that dismal abhorred business: and diverse gentlemen, and others, are now living in Lancashire to whom he hath related this story. And the Gentleman himself (whose memory I am bound to honour) told me a little before his death, of this conjuration by Kelley; as he had it by relation from his said Servant and Tenant; only some circumstances excepted, which he thought not fitting to come to his master's knowledge. These injuries done against the dead, who ought to sleep in peace until the last sound of the Trumpet, have ever been, even amongst the very Pagan's themselves, esteemed execrable. Insomuch that if any man that was known to have committed such an heinous offence, and did by chance escape the hand of humane justice, yet he could not (in their opinion) avoid the punishment of the divine powers. Whereupon they used to make their imprecations to Isis, or some other of their gods or goddesses; against such as should any ways violate and break down their Sepulchers or eternal houses of rest. As in this old Inscription. Secus qui fecerit; mitem Isidem iratam sentiat, & suorum Ossa eruta, atque dispersa videat. We read in holy Writ that the king of the Moabites was so savagely cruel, even after death, against the king of Edom; that he took his body out of the Sepulchre, and burned his bones into lime; for which barbarous rage, upon the sacred remains of a king's body, he and his people were punished of God: these are the words of the Prophet. Amos●● Thus saith the Lord, for three transgressions of Moab, and for four, I will not turn to it, because it burned the bones of the king of Edom into lime. Therefore will I send a fire upon Moab, and it shall devour the palaces of Kerioth, and Moab shall die with tumult, with shouting, and with the sound of a Trumpet. And I will cut off the judges out of the midst thereof, and will slay all the Princes thereof with him, saith the Lord. Amongst the Christians, adeo flagitiosum hoc scelus habitum fuit, ut atiam inter causas relatum sit, sur uxor à marito divortere posset, si nimirum Sepulchrorum dissolutorem esse probaverit: saith Kirkman, De funeribus Rom. l. 3. cap. 26. out of Theodosius and Valent. Emperors, Cod. de repudijs. Remains. And of this barbarous kind of cruelty against the dead, Camden in his Remains gives you these words following, out of Novel. Leg. Valent. Aug. de Sepulchris, Tit. V. Nimis barbara est, & vesana crudelitas, munus extremum luce carentibus invidere, & dirutis per inexpiabile crimen Sepulchris, monstrare coelo eorum reliquias humatorum. And the heathens (saith he) did account and verily believe, that those qui in patrios cineres minxissent; hoc est, qui patrium Monumenta violassent: which had pissed upon their father's ashes, that is to say, those which had violated the Monuments of their Ancestors, elders, or forefathers, to be no otherwise then Patricides or murderers of their fathers or dear friends; and that such should be struck to death by lightning from heaven; & after death that they should be frighted, tossed up and down, and tormented in hell, with burning torches by the hands of the furies; whereupon Horace de Arte Poetica versus finem. Nec satis apparet cur versus factitet, utrum Minxerit in patrios cineres; an triste bidental Moverit incestus. In Cimbrike Chersonese; a Distich, upon one of the funeral Monuments of the family of the Ranzovies, gives this admonishment to the way-faring man. Ad Viatorem. Si pia maiorum violas monumenta, viator; Vltrices Furias experiere brevi. As it was holden unlawful and punishable, in former times, for any one to piss, in or against the walls of any religious structure (a custom (to our shame) too commonly used of us in these days, of which I shall have often occasion to speak hereafter) so, you may think, that it was holden to be an impious and heinous offence for any one, to pollute with urine, the tombs, or graves of their parents, predecessors, friends, or any other whosoever. Which to prevent, they were wont to make a deprecation, or earnest suit, in some part of their funeral Inscriptions, on this manner. Hospes ad hunc tumulum ne meias, Ossa precantur tecta hominis. For indeed such as had their graves, tombs, statues, or representations, thus stained and defiled, were thought to have passed out of this world with shame and ignominy. I cannot without grief remember (saith Camden) how barbarously and unchristian like some not long since have offended by the abusing of these Monuments; Remains. yea some mingendo in patrios cineres; which yet we have seen strangely revenged. Now as the violation of Sepulchers, so the depredation of Churches, Church-robbing, or Sacrilege, was in all ages accounted most damnable. De Ecclesia qui aliquid furatur, Aug. super joha. judae proditori comparatur: He that steals any thing from the Church, may be compared to judas the traitor. Aliquid inde subtrahere, Hieron. Ep. 34. omnium praedonum cupiditatem superat; to hook or draw any thing from thence, is a sin, which exceeds the most detestable desire of all other sorts of robbers. Sacrum sacro 〈…〉 qui dempserit, Cicero de Legibus. rapueritque Parricida esto: He that abates, or forcibly takes ●way that which is sacred, or given to any sacred use, let him be reputed, and thought of, as we do of a murderer of his own parents. Against Church-spoilers, and breakers of Church-liberties, Ann. 1257. 3. Maij, Boniface Archbishop of Canterbury, assisted with other Bishops, apparelled in their Pontificals, with Tapers burning, denounced the sen●tence of Excommunication, in this form. Rastat. 〈◊〉 Excommengement. By the authority of Almighty God, the Father, the Son, and the holy Ghost, and of the glorious mother of God, and perpetual Virgin Mary, of the blessed Apostles, Peter and Paul, and of all Apostles, and of all Martyrs, of blessed Edward king of England, and of all the Saints of heaven; we excommunicate, accurse, and from the benefits of our holy mother the Church, we sequester all those, that hereafter willingly, and maliciously, deprave or spoil the Church of her right. And all those that by any craft, or wiliness, do violate, break, diminish, or change the Church liberties and free customs, contained in the Charters of the common liberties, etc. But I speak here of such sacrilegious persons as do rob, and bereave the Church of her treasure and sacred ornaments; a sin of such, only, which do misprise, and contemn Religion: a sin which hath been by the very Pagans observed never to escape unpunished. Cum oppidum Tolosanum in terra Gallia Quintus Cepio Consul diripu●sset; multumque auri in eius oppidi templis furisset, quisquis ex ea direptione aurum attigit, misero cruciabilique exitu perijt. Quintus Cepio with his company having taken and spoiled the Town or City of Tholouse in France, entered forcibly into the holy Temples, out of which sacrilegiously he took to the quantity of one hundred and ten thousand marks in gold, and five hundred millions of marks in silver; but every man of them, which were guilty of that robbery, with all their kindred and families died within that year; and not above one of them, did carry so much as one piece thereof home to his own house. This treasure of Tholouse was a part of the Delphian riches. For Brennus (the brother of Belinus' king of great Britain) Captain of the Gauls broke open the Temple of Apollo at Delphos, for the riches and the gold therein, which had been offered to the Gods, which he committed to public spoil. The most part whereof was conveyed by the Tectosages (a people of the West part of Narbon) to this city of Tholouse; justin. Hist. l. 32. but presently upon this sacrilege and contempt of the Gods; . the most of his army (which consisted of one hundred and fifty thousand footmen, and fifteen thousand horsemen) were discomfited and slain; and he so furiously possessed, that he slew himself with his own hands. — quis enim laesos impune putaret Esse deos! For who could think the Gods thus wronged Their punishment would be prolonged. Virgil makes these Church-robbers, these contemners of Religion, to be more miserably, than others, tormented in hell. — Phlegyas miserrimus omnes Admonet, & magna testatur voce per umbras, Discite iustitiam moniti, & non temnere Divos. — Phlegyas most of misers all, Amongst those caitiffs dark and loud with voice to them doth roar, Learn justice now by this, and Gods above despise no more. This Phlegyas king of the Lapiths (a people dwelling in a part of Thessaly) having done infinite damages in Greece, surprising many Towns and Cities: became in the end so over▪ weening, and foolish bold, that he sacked the foresaid Temple of Apollo in Delphos, and slew Philamon, that cunning Harper, the son of Apollo, who brought an armed power to rescue his father's oracle. Upon which sacrilege and contempt of the gods, all the country of the Phlegyans was utterly ruinated with an earthquake, and flaming arrows shot from heaven, which killed most of the people, and the few that remained died of the plague; and for this high handed offence, their foresaid king is still plagued in hell. Which verses of Virgil, to that purpose, thus paraphrastically translated, will it please you to read over again: Phlegias king most wretched in that place; Forewarneth all of his great misery, And as sad witness of his piteous case, In those dim shades he cries out woefully: Learn to do justice: and by my contempt, Of the high Gods, do you like fate prevent. Histories afford infinite examples of this kind in all sorts of Religions▪ yea Christian kings, and other Potentates in all ages have misprised the true, only, all-saving God, by the sacrilegious taking away of the rights, riches, and ornaments of holy Church; yet it hath been observed, that they seldom or never escaped scotfree as: the sequel of this work will show. Severe punishments have formerly been inflicted upon Church▪ robbers of the meaner rank, Stow. Annal. by the strictness of our Laws here in England. For an instance, in the twentieth year of Edward the fourth, on the 22. day of February, five notable malefactors were put to death at London, for robbing of Churches and other places; especially the collegiate Church of Saint martin's le grand in London; for the which three of them were drawn to the Tower-hill, and there hanged and burnt, the other two were pressed to death. We have not heard of the hanging of any such Church robbers in these our days, for Sublata causa tollitur effectus; the cause taken, or, if you will, stolen away, the effect will consequently cease: For what man will venture a turn at the Gallows, for a little small silver chalice, a beaten-out pulpit cushion, an o'erworn Communion-cloth, and a course Surplice? these are all the riches and ornaments of the most of our Churches; and these are more, by the Surplice, then by some of the Parishioners may be thought perhaps fitting to be allowed: such is now the sleight regard we have of the decent setting forth of sacred Religion. Of which a late writer, Sacred Religion, Sam. Daniel Musophilus. mother of form and fear, How gorgeously sometimes dost thou sit decked? What pompous vestments do we make thee wear? What stately piles we prodigal erect? How sweet perfumed thou art, how shining clear? How solemnly observed, with what respect? Another time all plain, and quite threadbare; Thou must have all within, and nought without Sat poorly without light; disrobd, no care Of outward grace to amuse the poor devout. Powerlesse, unfollowed, scarcely men can spare Three necessary rites to set thee out. Either truth, goodness, virtue, are not still The self same which they are; and always one, But alter to the project of our will; Or we our actions make them wait upon, Putting them in the livery of our skill, And cast them off again, when we have done. CHAP. X. Of the rooting up, taking away, erazing and defacing of Funeral Monuments in the reigns of King Henry the eighth, and Edward the sixth. Of the care Queen Elizabeth, of famous memory, had, for the preservation of the same. Her Proclamation in the second of her reign against defacing of Monuments. TOward the latter end of the reign of Henry the eight, and throughout the whole reign of Edward the sixth, Vid●. Parl. An. 2●. ●d 6. ca 6. and in the beginning of Queen Elizabeth, certain persons of every County were put in authority to pull down, and cast out of all Churches, Rood, graven Images, Shrines with their relics, to which the ignorant people came flocking in adoration. Or any thing else, which (punctually) tended to idolatry and superstition. Under colour of this their Commission, and in their too forward zeal, they rooted up, and ba●tered down, Crosses in Churches, and Churchyards, as also in other public places, they defaced and broke down the images of Kings, Princes, and noble estates; erected, set up, or portrayed, for the only memory of them to posterity, and not for any religious honour; they cracked a pieces the glass-windows wherein the effigies of our blessed Saviour hanging on the Cross, or any one of his Saints was depictured; or otherwise turned up their heels into the place where their heads used to be fixed; as I have seen in the windows of some of our country Churches. They despoiled Churches of their copes, vestments, Amices, rich hangings, and all other ornaments whereupon the story, or the portraiture, of Christ himself, or of any Saint or Martyr, was delineated, wrought, or embroidered; leaving Religion naked, bare, and unclad; as Dionysius left jupiter without a cloak, and Aesculapius without a beard. It will not seem distasteful, I hope, to my Reader, nor impertinent to this purpose, if I shall relate the story. Dionysius a Tyrant of Sicily, spoiled the Churches, and took away a cloak of gold from jupiter, saying (scoffingly) a cloth-cloake was lighter for Summer and warmer for Winter; he took likewise away from Aesculapius his golden beard, saying it was a saucy part for him to have a long beard, and his father Apollo to have none. But this his scoffing sacrilege was punished in his son Dionysius, who was enforced to fly out of his own kingdom; to trudge up and down like a runneagate, and in the end to lead a private life at Corinth. Seldom saith one, the children of them prosper, that scorn the false Gods, and believe not in the true God. And how the posterity of these Commissioners have prospered upon earth, or how punished after death, God knows all, howsoever by men somewhat in their passages hath been observed. Camd. in ●uff For these hote-burning in zeal officers, got cloaks to hide their knavery, and beards to vizard their hypocrisy, and thereby under a goodly pretence of reforming Religion, they preferred their private respects, and their own enriching, before the honour of their Prince and country; yea and before the glory of God himself. But the foulest and most in humane action of those times, was the violation of Funeral Monuments. Marbles which covered the dead were digged up, and put to other uses (as I have partly touched before) Tombs hacked and hewed a pieces; Images or representations of the defunct, broken, erazed, cut, or dismembered, Inscriptions or Epitaphs, especially if they began with an orate pro anima, or concluded with cuius animae propitietur Deus. For greediness of the brass, or for that they were thought to be Antichristian, pulled out from the Sepulchers, and purloined; dead carcases, for gain of their stone or leaden coffins, cast out of their graves, notwithstanding this request, cut or engraven upon them, propter misericordiam jesu requiescant in pace. These Commissioners, these 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, these Tombe-breakers, these grave-diggers, made such deep and diligent search into the bottom of ancient Sepulchers, in hope there to find (belike) some long-hidden treasure; joseph. Antiq. jud. l. 13. ca ●5. having heard or read that Hircanus ex Davidis Sepulchro tria millia auri talenta eruit: That Hircanus took three thousand talents of gold out of King David's Sepulchre; Cod. Theod l 5 Crimen Sacrilegio proximum, a sin the nearest unto Sacrilege. Not so much for taking out the money, C●ss●●d l. 4. for Aurum Sepulchris iustè detrahitur, ubi Dominus non habetur, as for the drawing out, and dispersing abroad the bones, ashes, and other the sacred remains of the dead. And hereupon the grave-takers, these goldfinders are called thieves, in old Inscriptions upon Monuments. Plutoni sacrum munus ne attingite fures▪ And in another place: Abite hinc pessumi fures. But I have gone further than my commission, thus then to return. This barbarous rage against the dead (by the Commissioners, and others animated by their ill example) continued until the second year of the reign of Queen Elizabeth, of famous memory, who, to restrain such a savage cruelty, caused this Proclamation (following) to be published throughout all her dominions; which after the imprinting thereof, she signed (each one severally) with her own hand-writing, as this was, which I had of my friend, Master Humphrey Dyson. ELIZABETH. A Proclamation against breaking or defacing of Monuments of Antiquity, being set up in Churches, or other public places, for memory, and not for superstition. THe Queen's Majesty understanding, that by the means of sundry people, partly ignorant, partly malicious, or covetous; there hath been of late years spoiled and broken certain ancient Monuments, some of metal, some of stone, which were erected up aswell in Churches, as in other public places within this Realm, only to show a memory to the posterity of the persons there buried, or that had been benefactors to the building or dotations of the same Churches or public places, and not to nourish any kind of superstition. By which means, not only the Churches, and places remain at this present day spoiled, broken, and ruinated, to the offence of all noble and gentle hearts, and the extinguishing of the honourable and good memory of sundry virtuous and noble persons deceased; but also the true understanding of diverse Families in this Realm (who have descended of the blood of the same persons deceased) is thereby so darkened, as the true course of their inheritance may be hereafter interrupted, contrary to justice, besides many other offences that do hereof ensue to the slander of such as either gave, or had charge in times past only to deface Monuments of idolatry and false feigned images in Churches and Abbeys. And therefore, although it be very hard to recover things broken and spoiled: yet both to provide that no such barbarous disorder be hereafter used, and to repair as much of the said Monuments as conveniently may be: Her Majesty chargeth and commandeth all manner of persons hereafter to forbear the breaking or defacing of any parcel of any Monument, or Tomb, or Grave, or other Inscription and memory of any person deceased, being in any manner of place; or to break any image of Kings, Princes, or nobles Estates of this Realm, or of any other that have been in times past erected and set up, for the only memory of them to their posterity in common Churches, and not for any religious honour; or to break down and deface any Image in glass-windows in any Church, without consent of the Ordinary: upon pain that whosoever shall herein be found to offend, to be committed to the next Goal, and there to remain without bail or mainprize, unto the next coming of the justices, for the delivery of the said Goal; and then to be further punished by fine or imprisonment (besides the restitution or reedification of the thing broken) as to the said justices shall seem meet; using therein the advice of the Ordinary, and if need shall be, the advice also of her Majesty's Council in her Star-chamber. And for such as be already spoiled in any Church, or Chapel, now standing: Her Majesty chargeth and commandeth, all Archbishops, Bishops, and other Ordinaries, or Ecclesiastical persons, which have authority to visit the Churches or Chapels; to inquire by presentments of the Curates, Churchwardens, and certain of the Parishioners, what manner of spoils have been made, sithence the beginning of her Majesty's reign of such Monuments; and by whom, and if the persons be living, how able they be to repair and re-edify the same; and thereupon to convent the same persons, and to enjoin them under pain of Excommunication, to repair the same by a convenient day, or otherwise, as the cause shall further require, to notify the same to her Majesty's Council in the Star-chamber at Westminster. And if any such shall be found and convicted thereof, no● able to repair the same; that then they be enjoined to do open penance two or three times in the Church, as to the quality of the crime and part●● belongeth under like pain of Excommunication. And if the party that offended be dead, and the executours of the Will left, having sufficient in their hands unadministred, and the offence notorious; The Ordinary of the place shall also enjoin them to repair or re-edify the same, upon like or any other convenient pain, to be devised by the said Ordinary. And when the offendor cannot be presented, if it be in any Cathedral or Collegiate Church, which hath any revenue belonging to it, that is not particularly allotted to the sustentation of any person certain, or otherwise, but that it may remain in discretion of the governor thereof, to bestow the same upon any other charitable deed, as mending of highways, or such like; her Majesty enjoineth and straightly chargeth the governors and companies of every such Church, to employ such parcels of the said sums of any (as any wise may be spared) upon the speedy repair or reedification of money such Monuments so defaced or spoiled, as agreeable to the original, as the same conveniently may be. And where the covetousness of certain persons is such, that as Patrons of Churches, or owners of the personages impropriated, or by some other colour or pretence, they do persuade with the Parson and Parishioners to take or throw down the Bells of Churches and Chapels, and the lead of the same, converting the same to their private gain, and to the spoils of the said places, and make such like alterations, as thereby they seek a slanderous desolation of the places of prayer: Her Majesty (to whom in the right of the Crown by the ordinance of Almighty God▪ and by the Laws of this Realm, the defence and protection of the Church 〈◊〉 this Realm belongeth) doth expressly forbid any manner of person, to ta●e away any Bells or lead of any Church or Chapel, under pain of imprisonment during her Majesty's pleasure, and such further fine for the contempt, as shall be thought meet. And her Majesty chargeth all Bishops and Ordinaries to inquire of all such contempts done from the beginning of her Majesty's reign, and to enjoin the persons offending to repair the same within a convenient time. And of their doings in this behalf, to certify her Majesty's privy Council, or the Council in the Star-chamber at Westminster, that order may be taken herein. given at Windsor the nineteen of September the second year of her Majesty's reign. God save the Queen. Imprinted at London in Paul's Churchyard by Richard jug and john Cawood, Printers to the Queen's Majesty. Cum privilegio Regiae Maiestatis. This Proclamation was seconded by another, to the same purpose, in the fourteenth year of her Majesty's reign, charging the justices of her Assize to provide severe remedy, both for the punishment and reformation thereof. But these Proclamations took small effect, for much what about this time, there sprung up a contagious brood of schismatics; who, if they might have had their wills, would not only have robbed our Churches of all their ornaments and riches, but also have laid them l●uell with the ground; choosing rather to exercise their devotions, and publish their erroneous doctrines, in some empty barn, in the woods, or common fields, then in these Churches, which they held to be polluted with the abominations of the whore of Babylon. Besides about that time these foresaid wilful Sectaries did pen, print, and spread abroad certain seditious Pamphlets (as still they do) against our book of Common Prayer; against all Ecclesiastical government, and against all the rites and ceremonies used in this our orthodoxal Church of England; inventing out of their own corky brains, a new certain no●orme of Liturgy to themselves; thereby to bring into the Church all disorder and confusion. These Renegadoes are (at this day) divided, and subdivided into as many several Sects, as there be several Trades in the greatest Market-town. As into Brownists, Barowists, Martinists, Prophesiers, Solifidians, Famelists, rigid Precisians, Disciplinarians, judaical Thraskists, etc. and into a rabble, numberless. 〈…〉 of a book entitled, Conspiracy of pretended Reformation. In the three and thirtieth year of Queen Elizabeth, the sixteenth day of july in the morning, Edmund Coppinger and Henry Arthington, repaired to one Walkers house near unto Broken warfe of London, where conferring with one of their Sect, named William Hacket of Owndale in the County of Northampton, Yeoman, they offered to anoint him king: But Hacket taking Coppinger by the hand, said, You shall not need, for I have been already anointed in heaven by the holy Ghost himself. Then Coppinger asked him what his pleasure was to be done: Go your way both (said he) and tell them in the city, that Christ jesus is come with his fan in his hand to judge the earth. And if any man ask you where he is, tell them he lies at Walkers house by Broken-wharfe; and if they will not believe it, let them come and kill me if they can: for as truly as Christ jesus is in heaven, so truly is he come to judge the world. Then Coppinger said it should be done forthwith: and thereupon went forward, and Arthington followed, but ere he could get down the stairs, Coppinger ●ad begun below in the house, to proclaim news from heaven of exceeding great mercy: that Christ jesus was come, etc. with whom Arthi●●●on also cried the same words aloud; following him along the streets from thence by Warling-street, and Old Change toward Cheap; they both adding beyond their commission, Repent England, repent. After they had both thus come (with a mighty concourse of common multitude) with an uniform cry into Cheap near unto the Gross, and there finding the throng and press of people to increase about them, in such sort a● they could not well pass further, nor be conveniently heard of them all as they desired: they got them up into an empty pease cart; wherein they stood not only upon the words of their former cry, but reading something out of a paper, they went more particularly over the office and ca●ling of Hacket, how he represented Christ, by partaking a part of his glorified body, by his principal spirit, and by the office of severing the good from the bad. And that they were two Prophets, the one of mercy, the other of judgement, called and sent of God, to assist this their Christ Hacket in his great work. These men were apprehended the same day. The 26, of july Hacket was arraigned, and found guilty, as to have spoken diverse most false and traitorous words against her Majesty; to have razed and defaced her Arms, as also her picture, thrusting a iron instrument into that part which did represent the breast and heart. For the which he had judgement, and on the 28. of july, he was brought from Newgate, to a gibbet by the Cro●e in Cheap; where being moved to ask God and the Queen forgiveness, be fell to railing and cursing of the Queen, and began a most biasphemous prayer against the divine Majesty of God. They had much ado to get him up the ladder; where he was hanged, and after bowelled and quartered. His execrable speeches and demeanour as well at his arraignment, as death, utterly distained and blemished all his former seeming sanctity, wherewith he had shroudly possessed the common people. Thus you see how easily ignorant people are seduced by false new doctrines, how suddenly they ●●ll from true Religion into heresy, frenzy, and blasphemy; robbing the Church of all her due rites, and (as much as in them lies) God of his Glory; which abuse, of these times, I leave to be reform by our reverend Clergy. On the next day (to make an end of the Story) Edmund Coppinger having wilfully abstained from meat, and otherwise tormented himself, died in Bridewell. And Henry Arthington lying in the Counter in Woodstreet, submitting himself, writ a book of repentance, and was delivered; such was the end of these men (saith mine Author) of whom the ●il●ie people had received a very reverend opinion, both for their sincere holiness and sound doctrine. And in the year 1612. April 11. Edward Wightman, another perverse heretic, was burned at Lichfield. This Wightman would fain have made the people believe, that he himself was the holy Ghost, and immortal, with sundry other most damnable opinions, not fit to be mentioned amongst Christians. Yet for all this, this heretic had his followers. It is much to be wished that all backsliders from our Church, should be well looked unto at the first: and not to run on in their puritanical opinions. Of the Shcismatiques of those times, and more especially of Martin Marprelate, these Rythmicall numbers following were composed. Hic racet ut pinus, Nec Caesar, nec Ninus, Nec Petrus, nec Linus, Nec Coelestinus, Nec magnus Godwinus, Nec plus, nec minus, Quam Clandestinus, Miser ille Martinus; Videte singuli, O vos Martinistae, Et vos Brownistae, Et vos Barowistae, Et vos Atheistae, Et Anabaptistae, Et vos Haketistae, Et Wiggintonistae, Et omnes Sectistae, Quorum dux fuit iste, Lugete singuli, At Gens Anglorum, Presertim verorum, Nec non qui morum, Estis honorum, Inimici horum, Vt est decorum, Per omne forum In secula seculorum, Gaudete singuli. A certain Northern Rhymer also made these following Couplets upon him and his seditious Pamphlets: The Welshman is hanged, Who at our Kirke flanged, And at her state banged, And brened are his buks. And though he be hanged; Yet he is not wronged, The de'ul has him fanged Is his kruked kluks. His name was john Penry a Welshman, a penner and a publisher of books, entitled, Martin mar Prelate, he was apprehended at Stepney, by the Vicar there, and committed to prison, and in the month of May 1593. he was arraigned at the King's bench in Westminster, condemned of Felony, and afterward suddenly in an afternoon conveyed from the Jail of the King's Bench to Saint Thomas Water, and there hanged with a small audience of beholders, saith Stow. CHAP. XI. Of the conversion of this our Nation from Paganism to Christianity, including generally the Foundations of religious houses in the same; and the piety in the Primitive times; both of religious and Lay persons. OF the conversion of this our Island, from Paganism to Christianity, diverse authentical Authors, both ancient and modern, have written at large: a little then of so much will suffice for this present Discourse. Christiana doctrina sexaginta octo plus minus annorum spacio, N Harp●●i●ld. 〈◊〉 Angl Eccl. cap 1. 〈…〉 secul. post passionem Domini nostri jesu Christi, totum fere orbem pervagata est; within the space of threescore and eight years, or thereabouts, after the death and passion of our Lord and Saviour jesus Christ, Christian Religion was spread almost over the face of the whole world. And so fruitful and famous was this spreading of the Gospel, that Baptista Mantuan, a Christian Poet, compares the increase thereof with that of Noah, thus alleging unto it. Sicutaquis quondam No sua misit in orbem Pignora sedatis, ut Gens humana per omnes Debita caelituum Patri daret orgia terras; Sic sua cum vellet Deus alta in regna reverti, Discipulos quosdam transmisit ad ultima mundi, Littora, docturos Gentes, quo numina ritu Sint oranda, quibus caelum placabile Sacris. As Noah sent from the Ark his sons, to teach The Laws of God unto the world aright; So Christ his Servants sent abroad to preach The word of life, and Gospel to each wight; No place lay shadowed from that glorious Light. The farthest Isles, and Earth's remotest bounds. Embraced their Faith, and joyed at their sweet sounds. Now to speak of the conversion of this Island out of a nameless Author, A Manuscript in the Ea●le of Excesters' ●●lemino●s Library. who writes a book De regnis & Gentibus ad Christi sidem conversis, thus: Prima Provinciarum omnium (sicut antiquissimi Historiarum Scriptores memoriae prodidere, quorum etiam authoritatem M. A. Sabellicus inter nostrae aetatis recentiores est secutus) Britannia Insula, publico consensu, Christi fidem accepit. The first of all Provinces or far countries (as ancient Historiographers have delivered to memory; whose authority M. A. Sabellicus, one amongst the late writers of our age, doth principally follow) this Island of Britain, by common consent, received the Christian faith. The glorious Gospel of jesus Christ (saith Gildas Albanius, Gild. de extud. ● Brit. surnamed the wise, the most ancient of our British Historians) which first appeared to the world in the later time of Tiberius Caesar, did even then spread his bright beams upon this frozen Island of Britain. And it is generally received for a truth, that joseph of Arimathea (who buried the body of our Saviour Christ) laid the foundation of our faith in the West parts of this kingdom, at the place, or little Island, as then called Aualon, now Glastenbury; where he with twelve disciples his assistants, preached the Gospel of life unto the Islanders, and found means there to build a Church or Oratory of wreathen wands, as also a little cell thereunto adjoining; and this was the first religious house dedicated to the service of the true God in all Britain: and these religious men the first beginners or founders of that famous fenny-seated Monastery, which is partly standing at this day, of which more hereafter, when I come to speak of the religious Foundations in Somersetshire. In the mean while will you read what our countryman john Capgrave (in his Catalogue of English Saints) writes of joseph's coming into this kingdom. Thus in English. joseph with his son joseph's (saith he) and ten more of his assistants, sent hither by Philip the Apostle out of France, for the inhabitants salvation, preached zealously, and without fear, the true and lively faith; Aruiragus as then swaying the Sceptre of this land. The which Aruiragus, howsoever he was unwilling at the first, to give them entertainment, or to hear them preach any doctrine repugnant to the traditions of his predecessors, yet because they came from such a far remote country as the holy Land, and that he saw their civil behaviour, their sanctity, and strict course in the manner of their life and conversation, he gave them a certain Island to inhabit, in the West part of his dominions, all compassed about with lakes and standing waters, called Ynswitrim, or the glassy Isle; of which (saith he) a certain Metrician made this Tetrastich. Intrat Analoniam duodena caterua virorum, Flos Arimathie joseph est primus eorum. joseph's ex Ioseph genitus patrem comitatur, Hijs alijsque decemius Glasconie propriatur. George Owen Harry, in his Pedigrees, upon report from others, saith, joseph brought over with him his sister Eurgaine, who afterwards married a Britain, whose name was Starklos. john Harding, in his Chronicle of England, will have fourteen to accompany joseph in this journey, and that amongst many Britain's converted by them to the Christian faith; Aruiragus the king was one, to whom joseph gave a shield of the Arms, which now we call S. George his Arms; such are the rhymes in the English of those days, two hundred years since or thereabouts. Cap. 47. & 48. — joseph full holy and full wise Of Arymathie with his fellows fourteen, Into this land than came and gave contene In Bretayne then this joseph did convert Brytons, as how to know the incarnation, Afore that paynims, and also pervert He taught them of his conversation, Of his passion, and his resurrection. With other things as the Chronycler saith, That appertaineth to Christ's faith. joseph converted king Aruiragus By his preaching, to know the law divine, And baptized him as written hath Nennius The Cronycler in Bretayn tongue full sign. And to christ law made him incline. And gave him a shield of silver white, A cross endlong, and overthwart full perfect. These Arms were used throughout all britain For a common sign each man to know his nation From enemies, which now we call certain, Saint George's Arms by Nenius enformation. And thus these Arms by joseph's creation, Full long afore Saint George was generate Were worshcipt here of mickle elder date. The seeds of true Religion thus sown by the said joseph and his associates; near or upon (for about this account there is some difference amongst writers) the year of our Saviour Christ one hundred and fourscore, Lucius (surnamed Lever Maur, Non Bana. hist sua genti●. which signifies great brightness) king of the Britain's; upon his request made to Eloutherius Bishop of Rome (for as then, and many years after, the title of Pope was altogether unknown) two learned Divines were sent unto him from the said Bishop, at whose hands he received the laver of baptism. And so it sell out (our Histories say) that not only his wife and family accompanied him in that happy course, Godwin de ●on. Brita. but Nobles also and Commons, Priests and people, high and low, even all the people within his Territories. And that generally all their Idols were then defaced; the Temples of them converted into Churches, for the service of God, the livings of their idolatrous Priests appointed for the maintenance of the Priests of the Gospel: and that instead of 25. Flamines or high Priests of their idols, there were ordained 25 Bishops, as also for three Archflamines, three Archbishops, whereof one was seated at London, another at York, and a third at Caerlion upon the river Vske in Wales. Of all which will it please you peruse a few lines penned by my foresaid Author, john Harding. In the year of Christ's incarnation, An hundred fourscore and ten, Eleuthery the first, at supplication Of Lucius, sent him two holy men, That called were * Faganus and Damianus. Faggan and Duvyen, That baptized him and all his realm throughout, With hertes glad, and labour devout. They taught the folk, the law of Christ each day, And hallowed all the temples in Christ's name. All mammet, and Idols cast away Through all britain, of all false Gods the same, The Temples, Flamines the Idols for to shame, They hallowed eke and made Bishops Sees, Twenty and eight at diverse great cities, Of three Archflamines, they made Archbishoprikes One at London, Troynovant that hight, For all Logres, with laws full authentikes To rule the Church and Christentee in right. Another at Carlyon a town of might, For all Cambre; at Ebranke the thirde From Trent North, for Albany is kide. A Manuscript in the Herald's office. Robert the Monk of Gloucester, an old rimer, who writes the language of our fathers about four hundred years since, doth summarily thus tell you, how joseph planted, and Luciu● established the doctrine of Christ in this our kingdom of Britain. His lives you will say are neither strong nor smooth; yet perhaps they may give your palate variety: and as you like them, you shall have more hereafter. Lucy Coeles sone aftur him king was To fore him in Engelond Chrestondom non nas For he * heard hurde oft miracles at Rome, And in many anothur stead, * that. yat thurgh Christene men come, He wilnede anon in his heart to * take. fong Christendom. Therefore messengers with good letters he * choose. nom, That to the pape Eleutherie hasteliche wend; And yat he to him and his men xpendom send. And yat he might servy God he wilned much thereto And said he would naught be glad ere hit wer ydo. * although. Tho ye Pape hurde thes * El●anus and Medu●inus two learned Clerks sent by Lu●ius to Rome. fifty h●ly men: be send, Phagan and Damian his soul to amend. The right believe to teach; and give him xpendom That folk fast about wide there to come. This was an hundred sixti yer and too Aftur God was ybore, this deed was ydoo, Thus come lo xpendom into Brutayne land. But there were erst some preneliche xpendom had the fond, As at the plas of Glastyngbury joseph of Arimathie, Lived there in Christ's lay with hij company: There were tho in Brutayne false laws to lere, Eight and twenty cheese steads Byshopriches as ●it were, And three Erchtemples as hit were heyghest of echon, London, and Ebrackwike, and thereto Caerlyon. The King and other hely men destruyde 'em all yfere, And eight and twenty Bishops in hure stead dude rear. And the Erchbishopes there, etc. A little more in another place to the same purpose, if you be not already weary of reading thus much. The Pape Eleutherie that send huder furst Chrestendom, Was the XIII Pape that aftur Peter come: The descyples yat he huder send xpendom to bring By left in wilderness aftur hure preaching That * men. me * names. clupeth Glastyngbury that desert was tho And there by come Monckes and nome to 'em more Phagan and Damian chief of 'em were And othur more that loved best to live and dwell there Because that joseph of Arimathic and his fellows twelve Thulk plas chosen had to won there by him selue. And there with hure own honds had rerde a Church Of hurdles and of yerds as * they. hij * could. could work And held there by him self the law of xpendom And yat was long ere xpendom to king Lucy come. The foundation of the famous College of Bangor in Wales is ascribed to this king Lucius; in which so many hundreds of Monks lived devoutly, and religiously, by the labour of their own hands, according to this piece of my foresaid Author. In the City of Bangor a great house though was, And their undyr Seven cols. or seven portions which had every one a several head or 〈…〉 them. seven Seven cols. or seven portions which had every one a several head or 〈…〉 them. cellens and there of ther nas That CCC Monckes had othur more And all by hure travail lyvede; look now if they do so. From the time of king Lucius until the entrance of Austin the Monk, called the englishmen's Apostle, which was four hundred and some few years, the Christian faith was always both taught and embraced in this Island; notwithstanding the continual persecutions of the Romans, Huns, Picts, and Saxons, which last, made such desolation in the outward face of the Church, that they drove the Christian Bishops into the deserts of Cornwall and Wales; by whose labours the Gospel was plentifully propagated amongst those vast mountains; and those parts above all other made glorious, by the multitudes of their holy Saints and learned Teachers. Of which a nameless Author mentioned by Speed. Hist. cap 9 Sicut erat celebris cultu numeroque Deorum; Cum jovis imperium staret, Britannica tellus; Sic ubi terrestres coelo descendit ad oras Expectata salus, patribus fuit inclyta sanctis. Qui Neptunicolum campos, & Canibrica rura Coryneasque casas loca desolata, colebant. As were the Britain's famous for their zeal To Gentile Gods, whiles such they did adore; So, when the Heavens to Earth did Truth reveal, Blessed was that Land with Truth and Learning store. Whence British plains and Cambria's desert ground, And Cornewalls crags, with glorious Saints abound. About the year six hundred, Christian Religion in this Island, being almost totally eclipsed by several persecutions, Pope Gregory the first, being zealously moved for the reconuersion of this English Nation, sent hither Austin the Monk, with other his associates; to kindle anew the sparks of Christianity, which were covered in the cinders of Pagan's desolation. The story is frequent, and I shall often touch upon it. Ethelbert being as then king of Kent, received holy Baptism by the said Austin, being principally induced thereunto, by Berta his wife and Queen, a Christian, daughter to Chilperuk king of France. Christianity being thus received by him, the most potent king of the Saxons. Regis ad exemplum totus componitur orbis. The good example of the King His people all to Christ did bring. The succeeding Saxon kings followed his heavenly steps, endeavouring in all they might, to overthrow the Synagogue of Satan, by breaking down the abominable idols throughout the whole Island. Edwyne king of Northumberland; Carpenwald, king of the Eastenglish; Sebert king of the Eastsaxons, Kynigilds' king of the Westsaxons, Peda king of the Merci●●s: Eth●●ulphe king of the Southsaxons, in the space of not much above threescore years, after the conversion of King Ethelbert, were converted 〈◊〉 God so wrought with them) from Paganism and Idolatry, unto the belief and worship of our Lord jesus Christ: and the Christian faith was publicly preached in all their dominions. These and other the Saxon kings for sanctity of life are ranked before all the Kings and Potentates of the world For such was their fervent zeal in Religion, that he thought himself most happy, who in pious acts, hard penance, weary pilgrimages, and retired solitude, spent the various course of life, which moved many of them to exchange a palace royal, and a Sceptre imperial, for a poor cell and a Mon●●●h st●●fe; to forsake their own kingdom, and to live as pilgrims in a foreign country; to lose their own lines in warlike opposition against Pagans and Infidels, thereby to live in heaven amongst the noble army of Martyrs; and lastly, it moved them and other great personages so ●o●v●ng their pious examples, to erect and amply endow religious 〈…〉, as Churches, Chapels, Schools, Colleges, and Monastery 〈◊〉 the preaching and further propagating of the Christian faith. As you may see in the sequel of these intended labours▪ Whose charters did 〈◊〉 end with an execrable curse to all those which by any manner of means should demolish or overthrow any of such their sacred structures, or infringe, alienate, or diminish any of their immunities, or yearly revenues. Likewise fearful comminations and excommunications were threatened and thundered out against those which should scorn, abuse, deceive, or craftily entrap any one, either of the secular, or Monastical orders; and a benediction diwlged, and granted to all those by whom they should be honoured, reverenced, rewarded, and have their livelihoods further enriched: concluding with a promise to defend these religious Votaries from the persecution of all humane enemies; and to maintain their li●e●●ies, freedoms, and privileges from the usurpation of any secular power. Their donations were sometime in meeter or rhyme, with the names of a number of witnesses, whereunto the sign of the cross was ever added; the form of which you may read hereafter: but the most of these their important writings were in prose, and many of them wondrous short. For example, King Athelston gives a certain plow-land and other profits to the Priest of the Church of high Bickington in Denshire, in these words which I had from my friend, Master Tristram Risdon that country man. Ich Athelston Koning, Groom of his home, Y if and grant to ye priests of thus church, On Yok of my land freliche to hold: wodd in My holt house to build; bit grass for all his beasts, * fuel for his fire. vewel for his hearth * corn f●● swine and p●gs. pannage For Sow and Puggis World out end. To the government of these foresaid holy Fabrics, and their revenues, such men were chosen as were the best learned, and most eminent for integrity of life. The Priests consecrated by the imposition of hands; and appointed to say prayers, administer the Sacraments, instruct the Christians which daily increased; and to execute all such offices as belonged to a sacred Bishop or venerable Pastor, were in such high and holy repute amongst the lay-people, as that when any of them were espied abroad, they would flock presently about him, and with all reverence humbly beseech his Benisons, either by signing them with the cross, or in holy prayers for them. And further (saith Bede) it was the manner in those primitive times, Lib. 4 cap. 27. of the people of England, that when any of the Clergy, or any priest came to a village, they would all by and by, at his calling, come together, to hear the word, and willingly hearken to such things as were said, and more willingly follow in works, such things as they could hear and understand. A wonderful order of piety both in priest and people. Chaucer in the prologue, to his Canterbury Tales, gives us the character of a religious and learned priest, who in his holy actions did imitate the example of the Clergy of these times, whereof I have spoken; but such were not to be had by the dozen in his days, as by his writings appears. The parson. A good man there was of religioun, And was a poor parson of a town: But rich he he was of holy thought and work He was eke a learned man and a clerk, That Christ's Gospels truly would preach, His Parishens devoutly would he teach. Benign he was and wonder diligent, And in adversity full patient. And such one he was proved oft * times. scythes, Full loath were him to curse for his tithes, But rather would he given out of doubt, Unto his poor Parishens all about, Both of his offering and of his substance, He couth in little thing have suffisance. Wide was his parish and houses far asander, But he ne left neither for rain ne thunder, In sickness in mischief for to visit The farthest in his Parish, much or light, Upon his feet, and in his hand a stafe: This noble example to his sheep he gave, That first he wrought, and afterward taught, Out of the Gospel he the words caught, And this figure he added eke thereto; That if gold rust what should iron do? For yef a priest be foul, on whom we trust, No wonder is a * ignorant. lewd man to rust: And shame it is, if a priest take keep, To see a shitten Shepherd, and a clean sheep Well ought a priest, ensample for to give By his cleanness, how his sheep should live. He set not his benefice to hire, And let his sheep acomber in the mire, And run to London, to saint Paul's To seken him a chantry for souls: Or with a brother heed to be withhold: But kept at home and kept well his fold, So that the wolf made him not miscarry, He was a shepherd, and not a mercenary. And though he holy were, and virtuous, He was not to sinful men despiteous, Ne of his speech dangerous ne digne, But in his reaching discrete and benign, To drawn folk to heaven, with fairness, By good ensample, this was his business. But if he were any person obstinate, Whether he were of high or low estate, Him would he snibbe sharply for the nonis, A better priest I know no where none is. He waited after no pomp ne reverence, Ne maked him no spiced conscience; But Christ's lore, and his Apostles twelve He taught, but first he followed it him selue. Bed. l. 1. ca 26. The Monastical orders likewise in that age, served God in continual prayer, watching, and fasting, and preaching the word of life to as many as they could, despising the commodities of this world, as things none of theirs, taking of them whom they instructed, only so much as might serve their necessities; living themselves according to that they taught to others, being ever ready to suffer, both troubles, yea and death itself, in defence of the truth that they taught. Bed. li. 3 ca 26. And in another place, speaking of the religious and lay-people in the North country; They had no money (saith he) but cattle, for if they took any money of rich men, by and by they gave it to poor people. Neither was it needful that either money should be gathered, or houses provided for the receiving and entertainment of the worshipful and wealthy, who never came then to Church, but only to pray and hear the word of God. The King himself, when occasion served to come thither, came accompanied only with five or six persons, and after prayer ended, departed. But if by chance it fortuned, that any of the Nobility, or of the worshipful, refreshed themselves in the Monasteries, they contented themselves with the religious men's fare and poor pittens, looking for no other cates above the ordinary and daily diet. For then those learned men and rulers of the Church, sought not to pamper the paunch, but to save the soul; not to please the world, but to serve God. Wherefore it came then to pass, that even the habit of religious men was at that time had in great reverence; so that where any of the Clergy or religious person came, he should be joyfully received of all men, like the servant of God. Again, if any were met going on journey, they ran unto him, and making low obeisance, desired gladly to have his benediction either by hand or by mouth. Also if it pleased them to make any exhortation as they passed by, every man gladly and desirously harkened unto them. Upon the Sundays ordinarily the people flocked to the Church, or to Monasteries, not for belly-cheer, but to hear the word of God: And if any Priest came by chance abroad into the village, the inhabitants thereof would gather about him, and desire to have some good lesson or collation made unto them. For the Priests, and other of the Clergy in those days, used not to come abroad into villages, but only to preach, to baptise, to visit the sick, or (to speak all in one word) for the cure of souls▪ Who also at that time were so far from the infection of covetousness and ambition, that they would not take territories and possessions toward the building of Monasteries, and erecting of Churches, but through the earnest suit, and almost forced thereunto by noble and wealthy men of the world: which custom in all points hath remained a long time after (saith he) in the Clergy of Northumberland. No less fervent in devotion, and austere in strictness of life, in these days, were the religious Votaries of the female sex. I had almost forgotten (saith Capgrave) (in the prologue to his book of the English Saints) the company of sacred virgins, which like lilies amongst thorns, despising all carnal pleasures, with all the great pomp and riches of the world (many of them being kings daughters) did in all chastity, poverty, and humility, adhere only to their Saviour jesus Christ, their celestial Bridegroom, for whose sake (as in this subsequent Treatise will be shown) they did undergo many exquisite torments, and in the end were glorified with a crown of martyrdom. Deus ex sexu elegens infirmiore ut fortia mundi confunderent. In a Lieger book belonging sometime to the Abbey of Rufford, Mss. in bib. Cotton. I find these verses following of the constant sufferings of certain virgin martyrs. Quid de virginibus dignum loquere, aspice fidem, Fides ob veram sert mala multa sidem, Huic ardens lectus solidum subvertere fidem S. Tecla. S. Agatha. S. Margaret. S. Lucy. Nec mors ipsa potest, cui Deus ardor inest. Tecla far as, Agathes Ergastula, vulnera vicit Margarita, truces virgo Lucia duces. Balnea Cecilie feruentia nil nocuere, S. Sis●ey. S. Agnes. Agneti nocuit flamma furorque nichil. Nil etas, nil mundus eyes, nil obfuit hostis Cuncta domant, superant infima, summa tenent. His ornamentis fulget Domus Omnipotentis. C. in Cheshire. But I will conclude this Chapter with the words of Camden, speaking of the Monastical life and profession. The profession of this Monastical life (saith he) began when Pagan Tyrants enraged against Christians, pursued them with bloody persecutions. For than good devout men, that they might serve God in more safety and security, withdrew themselves into the vast wildernesses of Egypt, and not (as the Painims are wont with open mouth to give it out) for to enwrap themselves willingly in more miseries because they would not be in misery. Where they scattered themselves among mountains and deserts, living in caves and little cells, here and there in holy meditations. At first solitary and alone: whereupon in Greek they were called Monachi, that is, Monks: but after they thought it better (as the sociable nature of mankind required) to meet together at certain times to serve God, and at length they began to cohabite and live together for mutual comfort, rather than like wild beasts to walk up and down in the deserts. Their profession was to pray, and by the labour of their own hands to get living for themselves, and maintenance for the poor, and withal they vowed poverty, obedience, and chastity. Athanasius first brought this kind of Monks, consisting of lay-men, into the Westchurch. Whereunto after that Saint Austen in Africa. Saint Martin in France, and congel (one of the College of Bangor) in Britain and Ireland, had adjoined the function of regular Clergy. It is incredible how far and wide they spread, how many and how great Coenobies were built for them, so called of their communion of life: as also Monasteries, for that they kept still a certain show of solitary living: and in those days none were more sacred and holy than they, and accordingly they were reputed; considering how by their prayers to God, by their example, doctrine, labour, and industry, they did exceeding much good, not only to themselves, but also to all mankind. But as the world grew worse and worse, so those their holy manners, as one said, rebus cessere secundis, that is, Gave backward in time of prosperity. But of the piety of religious professors in the Primitive times, of the sanctity of British and Saxon Kings, of their Queens, and issue royal; as also of other persons of exemplary zeal and holy conversation; I do speak hereafter in particular, as I come to the places of their interments. CHAP. XII. Of the fall or backsliding as well of religious persons, as of lay-people from the foresaid zealous ardour of piety. THis heat of devotion, which I have spoken of, continued not long in this Island. For as the Clergy and other religious orders, grew rich in fair buildings, proud furniture, and ample revenues, so they daily increased in all kinds of disorders; which was no sooner perceived, but put in practice by the laity: our kings declined from their former sanctity, and (which the worst was) after their examples, many others (especially of the Nobility) did follow their licentious traces. Examples of Princes being always of greater force than other laws, to induce the people to good or to evil. Quint. declam. 4 Nam haec conditio Principum, ut quicquid faciant praecipere videantur. To prove as much as I have spoken. Godwin. Presul. Aug. in vit. ●ut. Wil●. Malms de gestis ●oni. lib. 1. de Epis. Dorober. In the year of Grace, 747 Cuthbert Archbishop of Canterbury, by the counsel of Boniface Bishop of Mentz, called a Convocation at Cliff beside Rochester, to reform the manifold enormities wherewith the Church of England at that time was overgrown. Our kings forsaking the company of their own wives, in those days delighted altogether in harlots, which were for the most part Nuns. The rest of the Nobility following their example, trod also the same trace. The Bishops likewise, and other of the Clergy, that should have been a means of the reforming these faults in others, were themselves no less faulty; spending their times either in contentions and brabbles, or else in luxury and voluptuousness, having no care of study, and seldom or never preaching Whereby it came to pass, that the whole land was overwhelmed, with a most dark and palpable mist of ignorance, and polluted with all kind of wickedness and impiety, in all sorts of people. In which Convocation, after long consultation with those his Bishops, or Suffragans, and the rest of the Clergy which were holden in greatest esteem for their learning, in number thirty, for the reformation of these horrible abuses, endeavouring thereby (like a good Pastor) to turn away the wrath of God which seemed to hang over this land, and to threaten those plagues which not long after fell upon it, when the Danes invaded the same. Edgar, surnamed the peaceable, King of England in the year, 969. called together his Bishops, and other of his Clergy, to whom he made this or the like Oration, as followeth. Forsomuch as our Lord hath magnified his mercy to work with us it is meet (most reverend Fathers) that with worthy works we answer his innumerable benefits: Allernd. ●●uall. a M ss in ●ib. Cot. Stow Annal. for neither by our own sword possess we the earth, and our own arms hath not saved us; but his right hand and his holy arm; for that he hath been pleased with us. Meet therefore it is, that we submit both ourselves and our souls to him, that hath put all things under our feet; and that we diligently labour that they whom he hath made subject unto us, may be made subject unto his laws. And truly it is my part to rule the laity, with the law of equity, to do just judgement betwixt man and his neighbours, to punish Church-robbers, to repress rebels, to deliver the weak from the hands of his stronger; the poor and needy from them that spoil them. And it also belongeth to my care, to have consideration to the health, quietness, or peace of the Ministers of the Church, the flock of Monks, the companies of Virgins, and to provide the things needful for them. The examining of whose manners belongeth unto you, if they live chastely, if they behave themselves honestly towards them which be abroad, if in divine service they be careful, if in teaching the people diligent, if in feeding sober, if moderate in apparel, if in judgement they be discreet. If you had cured these things by prudent scrutiny (by your licence I speak O reverend Fathers) such horrible and abominable things of the Clerks had not come to our ears. I omit to speak, that their Crown is not large, nor their rounding convenient, but wantonness in apparel, insolency in behaviour, filthiness in words, do bewray the madness of the inward man. Furthermore, how great negligence is there in the Divines, when in the holy Vigils, they will scarce vouchsafe to be present, when at the holy solemnities of the divineseruice, they seem to be gathered together to play and to laugh, rather than to sing. I will speak that which good men lament, and evil men laugh at. I will speak with sorrow (if so be it may be spoken) how they flow in banquet, in chambering and wantonness, that now Clerks houses may be thought to be brothel houses of harlots, and an assembly of players. There is dice, there is dancing and singing, there is watching till midnight, with crying and shouting. Thus the patrimony of Kings, the alms of Princes, yea (and that more is) the price of that precious blood is overthrown. Had our fathers therefore for this purpose emptied their treasures? hath the King's bountifulness given lands and possessions to Christian Churches for this end? that Clerk's harlots should be pampered with delicious dainties, that riotous guests may be prepared for; that hounds and hawks, and such like toys may be gotten. Of this the Soldiers cry out, the common people murmur, the jesters and scoffers sing and dance, and you regard it not; you spare it, you dissemble it. Where is the sword of Levy, and zeal of Simeon, which killed the circumcised Sichimites, being the figure of them that defile the Church of Christ, with polluted acts, abusing Jacob's daughter as an harlot? Where is the spirit of Moses, that spared not his household, kinsfolk worshipping the head of the calf? Where is the dagger of Phin●es the Priest, who killing him that played the harlot with the Madianite, with this holy emulation pacified God's wrath? where is the spirit of Peter, by whose power covetousness is destroyed, and Simoniall heresy condemned? Endeavour to imitate, O ye Priests in God: It is time to rise against them that have broken the Law of God. I have Constantine's, you have Peter's sword in your hands, let us join right hands, let us couple sword to sword, that the Lepers may be cast out of the Church, that the hallowed place of our Lord may be purged, and the sons of Levi may minister in the Church. Go to carefully, I beseech you, lest it repent us to have done that which we have done, and to have given that which we have given, if we shall see that not to be spent in God's service, but on the riotousness of most wicked men, though unpunished liberty. Let the relics of holy Saints, which they scorn, and the reverend Altars before which they rage, move you: Let the marvelous devotion of our Ancestors move you, whose alms the Clerk's fury abuseth, etc. To you I commit this business, that both by Bishoplie censure, and kingly authority, filthy livers may be cast out of the Church, and they that live in order may be brought in. Not long after, Hen. Hunting. li. 6. to wit, in the reign of Etheldred, commonly called, The unready, it was foretold by an holy Anchorite; that forsomuch as the people of this Nation were given over to all drunkenness, treason, and carelessness of God's house; first by Danes, then by Normans, and last of all by the Scots they should be overcome. Of which hereafter. Edward the Confessor, Will. Malms. Matt. West. Ran. Higde●. in Pol▪ chron. lib 6 cap ●8. Holli●s in vit. Howa●d. whilst he lay sick of that sickness whereof he died, after he had remained for two days speechless, on the third day lying for a time in a slumber, or soft sleep, at the time of his waking, he fetched a deep sigh, and thus said. O Lord God Almighty, if this be not a vain fantastical illusion, but a true vision which I have seen, grant me space to utter the same unto these that stand here present, or else not. And herewith having his speech perfect, he declared how he had seen two Monks stand by him, as he thought, whom in his youth he knew in Normandy to have lived godly, and died Christianly. These religious men (said he) protesting to me that they were the messengers of God, spoke these words. Because the chief governors of England, the Bishops, and Abbots, are not the ministers of God, but the devils, the Almighty God hath delivered this kingdom for one year and a day into the hands of the enemy, and wicked spirits shall walk abroad through the whole land. And when I made answer that I would declare these things to the people, and promised on their behalf, that they should do penance in following the example of the Ninivites: they said again, that it would not be, for neither should the people repent, nor God take any pity upon them And when is there hope to have an end of these miseries? said I: Then said they, when a green tree is cut in sunder in the middle, and the part cut off, is carried three acre's breadth from the stock, and returning again to the stole, shall join therewith, and begin to bud and bear fruit after the former manner, by reason of the sap renewing the accustomed nourishment, than (we say) may there be hope that such evils shall cease and diminish. With these words of the dying king, though many that stood by were struck with fear; yet Stig and the Church-chopper, Archbishop of Canterbury, made but a jest thereof, saying, that the old man doted, and raved now in his sickness. Nevertheless within the same year the truth of this prophetical dream or vision did plainly appear. When the conqueror William seized into his hands, to glue unto the Normans, the most part of every man's possessions in England; took from the Bishops Sees all their ancient privileges and freedoms, bereaved all the Monasteries and Abbeys of their gold and silver, sparing neither Shrine, Sir john Hayward in vit. Will. Con. nor Chalice, appropriating the said religious houses, with their revenues to himself, degrading and depriving as well Bishops, as Abbats of their seats and honours, and detaining many of them in prison during their lives, that others of his own followers might be placed in their rooms. R. Wendou●● in bib. Cotton. By which means there was scarce left any man in authority of the English nation to bear rule over the rest, insomuch that it was counted a reproach to be called an Englishman. William surnamed Rufus, son to the Conqueror, and king of England, endeavouring to abate the tumorous greatness of the Clergy, restrained his Subjects from going to Rome, Sir john Hay, in v. t. Will. Rufi. withheld the annual payment of Peter pence, and was oftentimes heard to give forth these words, They follow not the trace of Saint Peter, they greedily gape after gifts and rewards, they retain not his power whose piety they do not imitate. ●. ●●gden in Poly. lib. 7. cap. 9 Nothing was now more in use then seizing, farming, and merchandizing of Church-livings, and the chief agent in this business was one Ranulf Flambard, the King's Chaplain, afterwards Bishop of Durham, for which he gave a thousand pounds. Robert Bluet gave for the Bishopric of Lincoln, five thousand pounds: and one Herbert Prior of Fiscane in Normandy bought for his father, whose name was losing, the abbacy of Winchester, and for himself the Bishopric of Norwich. Will. Malms. de Reg. Mut. West. mon. Trevisa. Whereupon a versifier of that age made these rhythms. Surgit in Ecclesia monstrum genitore Losinga, Symonidum secta, Canonum virtute resecta. Petre nimis tardas, nam Symon ad ardua tentat: Si praesens esses, non Symon ad alta volaret. Proh dolor Ecclesiae nummis venduntur & aere, Filius est Praesul pater Abbas Simon uterque. Quid non speremus si nummos possideamus? Omnia nummus habet, quid vult facit, addit, & aufert, Res nimis iniusta, nummis sit Praesul & Abba. Thus translated by Bale in his Votaries: A monster is up the son of Losinga, Whiles the law seeketh Simony to slay: Peter thou sleepest, whiles Simon taketh time; If thou wert present, Simon should not climb. Churches are prised for silver and gold, The son a Bishop, the father an Abbot old. What is not gotten if we have richesse? Money obtaineth, in every business In Herbert's way yet, it is a foul blot, That he by Simony, is Bishop and Abbot. But Simony was not so common now as other sins; for the Clergy in general gave themselves strangely to worldly pleasures, Higd. in Polych. lib. 7. cap. 6. and pompous vanities; they wore gay rich garments, gilt spurs, embroidered girdles, and bushy locks. The Monks of Canterbury, as well nigh all other Monks in England, were not unlike to secular men, Idem. lib▪ cod. 〈◊〉. they used hawking and hunting, playing at dice, and great drinking; thou wouldst have taken them to have been great Magnificoes rather than Monks, they had so many servants and attendance of goodly array and dignity. Anselm Archbishop of Canterbury, by the permission of King Henry the first, Mat. Paris. assembled a great Council of the Clergy at Westminster; wherein he deprived many great Prelates of their promotions for their several offences, and many Abbots for other enormities; forbidding the farming out of Church dignities. In the reign of King Henry the second, the abuses of Churchmen were grown to a dangerous height, saith well the Monk of Newborough, lib. 2. cap. 16. for it was declared, saith he, in the King's presence, that Clergy men had committed above an hundred murders in his reign: Of which nine years were, as then, scarcely expired. And in the 23 of his reign, the Nuns of Amesbury were thrust out of their house, because of their incontinent living. Rog. Hoved. Richard Cordelion, king of England, being told by a certain Priest called Fulco, a Frenchman, that he kept with him three daughters, namely, pride, covetousness, and lechery, which would procure him the wrath of God, if he did not shortly rid himself of them: answered, That he would presently bestow his three daughters in marriage; the Knight's Templars (said he) shall have my eldest daughter Pride: the white Monks of the Cis●●ux order, Covetousness: and my third daughter Lechery, I commit to the Prelates of the Church, who therein take most pleasure and felicity. And there you have my daughters bestowed among you. In the reign of Henry the third, the Templars in London being in great glory, entertained the Nobility, foreign Ambassadors, and the Prince himself very often, insomuch that Matthew Paris, Monk of Saint Alban, who lived in those days, cried out upon them for their pride, who being at the first so poor as they had but one horse to serve two of them (in token whereof they gave in their seals two men upon one horseback) yet suddenly they waxed so insolent, that they disdained other orders, and sorted themselves with Noblemen. But this their insulting pride had a quick period: for shortly after, to wit, in the beginning of King Edward the seconds reign, in the Council at Vienna, this their so highly esteemed order, was, upon clear proof of their general, odious, abominable sins, and incredible Atheistical impieties by them practised, utterly abolished throughout all Christendom: And by the consent of all Christian Kings, depo●ed all in one day; taken all and committed to safe custody: And thus being politicly apprehended, their lands and goods were seized upon: the heirs of the Donours here in England, and such as had endowed these Templars with lands, entered upon those parts of their ancient patrimonies after this dissolution, Tho. de la 〈◊〉 and detained them until not long after they were by Parliament wholly transferred unto the Knights of the Rhodes, or of S. john of jerusalem. A little before the universal extinguishment of this order of the Templars, 〈◊〉. Martyr. pag 33●. 〈◊〉 Edit. Philip the French King caused 54. of that Order with their great Master to be burnt at Paris; for their heinous ungodliness. In the reign of Edward the third, the Clergy of England exceeded all other Nations in the heaping up together of many Benefices, and other spiritual promotions; besides, at that time, they held the principal places both of trust and command in the kingdom. Some of them had twenty Benefices with cure, and some more, and some of them had twenty Prebends, besides other great dignities. William Wickham at the death of William Edington Bishop of Winchester, was made general administrator of spiritual and temporal things pertaining to that Bishopric, and the next year was made Bishop of Winchester. This Wickham besides the Archdeaconry of Lincoln, and Provostship of Welles, and the Parsonage of Manihant in Devonshire, had twelve Prebends. Simon Langham was Archbishop of Canterbury, and Chancellor of England. john Barnet Bishop of Bath, and Treasurer of England. Godwin in vit. Wichami. The foresaid Wickham Keeper of the privy Seal, Master of the Wards, and Treasurer of the King's revenues in France. David Wellar Parson of Somersham, Master of the Rolls, serving King Edward, in the Chancery forty years and more. Ten beneficed Priests, Civilians, and Masters of the Chancery. William Mu●se, Deane of S. martin's le Grand, chief Chamberlain of the Exchequer, Receiver, and Keeper of the King's Treasure and jewels. William Ashby, Archdeacon of Northampton, Chancellor of the Exchequer. William Dighton, Prebendary of Saint martin's, Clerk of the privy Seal. Richard Chesterfield, Prebendary of S. Stephens, Treasurer of the King's house. Henry Snatch, Parson of Oundall, Master of the King's Wardrobe. john Newenham, Parson of Fenistanton, one of the Chamberlains of the Exchequer, and keeper of the King's Treasury, and jewels. john Rouceby, Parson of Hardwicke, Surueior, and Controller of the King's works. Thomas Britingham, Parson of Ashby, Treasurer to the King, for the parts of Guisnes, and the marches of Caleis. john Troy's, Treasurer of Ireland, diverse ways beneficed in Ireland. Pope Vrban the first, made a decree against the heaping together of many Benefices, or spiritual promotions by one man, for the execution whereof he sent commandment to the Archbishop of Canterbury, and by him to all his Suffragans, to certify in writing, the names, number, and qualities, of every Clerk, Benefices, or livings, within their several Diocese. Whereupon this or the like certificate was brought in. I find, inter Breui● Regis▪ Ed. 3. Ann. 24. that William Fox Parson of Lee near Gainsborough, Ex Archivis ●urris London. john Fox, and Thomas of Lingeston, Friars Minors of that Covent in Lincoln, were indicted before Gilbert Vmfrevill, and other justices, in partibus de Lindesey, apud Twhancaster, die Sabbati post festum s●ncti johannis baptist, in the said year, for that they came to Bradholme, a Nunnery in the County of Nottingham, the eighteenth of the Kal. of February, and then and there rapuerunt, & abduxerunt inde, contra pacem Domini Regis, quandam Monialem nomine Margaretam de Euernigham Sororem dicte Domus, exeuntes eam habit. Religionis, & induentes eam Rob. virid. secular. ac etiam diversa bona ad valenc. quadragint. solid. Violently taken and forcibly from thence carried away, against the peace of their Sovereign Lord the King, a certain Nun by name Margaret de Euernigham, a sister of the said house, stripping her quite out of her religious habit, A green Gown given to a Nun. and putting upon her a green Gown, Robe, or Garment of the secular fashion, and also diverse goods to the value of forty shillings. In this King's reign Robert Longland a secular Priest, borne in Shropshire, at Mortimer C●liberie, writ bitter invectives against the Prelates, and all religious orders in those days, as you may read throughout this book, which he calls, The vision of Piers Ploughman. Presently after, in the reign of Richard the second, john Gower flourished, who in his book called, A Manus. in Sir Robert Cottons Library. Vox clamantis, cries out against the Clergymen of his time; first, Quod Christi scholam dogmatizant, & eius contrarium operantur. 2 Quod potentiores aliis existunt. 3 Quod carnalia appetentes ultra modum delicatè vinunt. 4 Quod lucris terrenis inhiant, honore Prelacie gaudent, & non ut prosint, sed ut presint, Episcopatum desiderant. Quod legibus positi●is quae quamuis ad cultum anime necessary non sunt, infinitas tamen constitutiones quasi quotidie ad eorum lucrum nobis graviter impon●●t. Quod bona temporalia possidentes, spiritualia omittunt. Quod Christus pacem suis discipulis dedit & reliquit; sed Prelati propter bona terrena guerras contra Christianos, legibus suis positivis, instituunt, & prosequuntur. Quod cleri sunt bellicosi. Quod scribunt & docent ea quae sunt pacis, sed in contrarium ea quae sunt belli procurant. Quod nomen sanctum sibi presumunt, appropriant tamen sibi terrena, nec aliis inde participando ex caritate subveniunt. Quod intrant Ecclesiam per Symoniam. Quod honores & non onera Prelacie plures affectant, quo magis in Ecclesia cessant virtutes, & vitia multipliciter accrescunt. Quod Rectores in curis residentes, cu●●s tamen negligentes, venationibus praecipue, & voluptatibus penitus intendunt. Quod Presbyteri sine curis, sive stipendarij non propter mundici●m, & ordinis honestatem, sed propt●r mundi otia gradum Presbyteratus appetunt & assumunt. Much more he speaks against the abuses and vices of Churchmen, as also against the lewd lives of the Scholars in Cambridge and Oxford, which he calls the Church's plants: concluding thus his third book: Sic quia stat cecus morum sine lumine clerus Erramus Laici nos sine luce vagi. In his fourth book he speaks of Monks, and all other religious Orders: Quod contra primi ordinis statuta abstinentie virtutem linquunt, & delicias sibi corporales multipliciter assumunt. Ripping up their faults in particular. Chaucer who was contemporary and companion with Gower, in the Ploughman's tale, the Romant of the Rose, and in his Treatise which he entitles, lack Vpland, writes as much, or more, against the pride, covetousness▪ insatiable luxury, hypocrisy, blind ignorance, and variable discord amongst the Churchmen, and all other our English votaries. As also how rude and unskilful they were in matters and principles of our Christian institutions; to whose works, now commonly in print, I refer my Reader, for further satisfaction. In a Parliament holden at Westminster, the eleventh year of King Henry the fourth, the lower house exhibited a Bill to the King and the Lords of the upper house in effect as followeth. To the most excellent Lord our King, Tho. Walsing. Fabian The like bill or petition was exhibited in Parliament, an. 9 Ric. 2. and to all the Nobles in this present Parliament assembled, your faithful Commons do humbly signify, that our Sovereign Lord the King might have of the temporal possessions, lands, and revenues which are lewdly spent, consumed, and wasted, by the Bishops, Abbats, and Priors, within this Realm; so much in value as would suffice to find and sustain one hundred and fifty Earls, one thousand and five hundred Knights, six thousand and two hundred Esquiers, and one hundred Hospitals, more than now be. Speed. Walsing. But this Petition of spoiling the Church of England of her goodly patrimonies, which the piety and wisdom of so many former ages had congested, was by the King (who was bound by oath and reason to preserve the flourishing estate of the Church) so much detested, that for this their proposition, he denied all other their requests: and commanded them that from thenceforth they should not presume to intermeddle with any such matter. This King, as also his son, and grandchild, were wondrous indulgent to the Clergy; although they were daily disquieted with the bellowing of the Pope's Provisorie Bulls. For Henry the fifth was so devour and serviceable to the Church of Rome and her Chaplains, that he was called of many, the Prince of Priests. ●ox. Martyr. pag 6. ●● ult. Ed. And Henry the sixth, surnamed the holy, uva an obedient child, and no less, nay more obsequious to the See Apostolical, than any of his predecessors; howsoever I find that once he rejected the Pope's Bull, 〈◊〉 Arch. Turris London. An. 16. ●●. 6. concerning the restoring of the Temporalities of the Bishopric of Ely. And now give me leave a little to digress, speaking somewhat by the way of the denomination of this word Bulla, and why the Bishops of Rome call their leaden Seals, by which they confirm their writings, Bulls. This word Bulla was called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, joseph. Castaleon. pag. 288. id est, à Consilio, of council. For that anciently a golden Bull, broach, or ornament, round and hollow within, was usually fastened about the necks or breasts of young children, and semblably to all their pictures, signifying thereby, that their tender unbridled age ought to be governed by the grave council, and good advice of others, of more maturity in years. And from hence the Bishops of Rome borrowed the name for their leaden Seals; upon one part of which the name of the Pope is to be read: on the other, the head of Saint Paul on the right side of the Cross, and of Saint Peter on the left are to be seen. Honoris tamen non praelationis gratia factitatum hoc ab Ecclesia. Nam quanquam S. Petrus sit Princeps Apostolici ordinis, tamen Ecclesia voluit eos indiscretae esse excellentiae. But this was done of the Church (saith my Author) in regard of honour, not of pre-eminence; For although Saint Peter be the head of the apostolic Order, yet the Church will have them to be of an undistinct excellence. Now the Pope's per litter as suas bullatas Regi directas, did prefer whom they pleased, and how they pleased, to any Ecclesiastical promotion here in England. One example for all. Innocent the seventh by his Bull preferred Richard Fleming, first to the Bishopric of Lincoln, then to the archbishopric of York, and lastly drive him back again by his roaring Bull to his first preferment of Lincoln. All which this King thus ratifies. Cum nuper summus Pontifex Richardum tunc Episcopum Lincoln: a vinculo quo eidem Ecclesie tenebatur absolnerit; Ex Arch. ●urris Lon. 2. pars. pat. An 4 Hen. 6. ad Ecclesiam Ebor: transtulerit. Nec non à vinculo quo eidem Ecclesie Ebor. cui tunc preerat, tenebatur, absoluit ipsum; ad prefat. Lincoln. Ecclesiam duxerit restituend. & transferand. ipsumque in Episcopum Ecclesie Lincoln. prefecerit. Rex fidelitatem cepit ipsius Episcopi & restituit ei temporalia. Teste Rege apud West. 3. Augusti. Such was the absolute authority of the Pope; In bib Cott. whose name (saith a nameless Author) was never Peter, except you grant Saint Peter to be one and the first, (howsoever many of them have had that name given unto them in baptism) the reason whereof is thus delivered: Nemo ex omnibus Romanorum Pontificibus Petri nomen sibi assumpsit, (etsi nonnulli in Baptismate ita nominati) ex quadam erga Apostolorum Principem reverentia. Now let me return, this Digression being much longer than I expected, as also this Chapter, which I will conclude as briefly as I may; in the mean while take this short story, which I find in the fourth part of Sir Edward Coke reports, Act. de Scandalis. The Abbot of S. Albon commanded his servant to go into the Town, An. 22. Ed. ●. Rot. 20. or some place near adjoining, and to desire a certain man's wife to come unto him, with whom (he said) he had an earnest desire to talk: The servant obeyed, and (like a good trusty Roger) performed his Master's commandment, in bringing the woman to his private chamber. Now so soon as the Abbot and the wife were together, the servant (well knowing his master's mind) withdrew himself out of the way; and left them together alone in the chamber. The Abbot then began to accost the wise; telling her first, that her array was mean, poor, and gross array; to which she answered, That her array was according to her small ability, and the ability of her husband. The Abbot (knowing in what most of women take the greatest delight) told her that if she would be ruled by him, she should have as good array to wear, as the best woman in the Parish where she dwelled; and so began to solicit her chastity. The woman giving no ear to his libidinous motions, the Abbot assaulted her with struggle and bawdy embracings, thinking to get that by force which he could not obtain by fair means. But she still resisted all his encounters, promises, and persuasions, by which he detained her in his chamber a long time against her will. The husband having notice of this abuse offered to his wife; began to talk of the matter, and said that he would have an Action of false imprisonment against the Abbot, for detaining his wife against her will so long in his chamber. The Abbot hearing of this (adding one sin to another) did sue the innocent poor husband in the Ecclesiastical Court upon an Action of defamation, because (forsooth) the husband had given out, and published abroad, that my Lord Abbot would have made his wife a dishonest woman. The matter being opened in the Court, the husband had a Prohibition, etc. This cunning sin (amongst other their crimes) was usually put in practice by the Churchmen of other countries; witness Francis Petrarch Archdeacon of Parma in Italy, in one of his Epistles, sine titulo, to his nameless friend; wherein he anatomises the Roman Clergy. Thus translated. Epist ●0. Here Venus with her wanton toys, Is honoured with base bawds and boys; Adultery, whoredom, and incest, Is honoured here among the best: And counted but for sports and plays Even with our Prelates of these days. The wife is ravished from her spouse, And to the Papal seat she bows. The poor go●d man must leave the Town, Such ordinances are set down: And when her bel●●e riseth high, By Cardinal's who with her lie, The husband must not dare complain, But take his wife with child again. And dangerous it was for a Layman in john gower's days, to accuse any of the Clergy with a matter of truth. As you may perceive by the sequel. Vox Clam. lib. 3. ca 21. Hoc dicit clerus quod quamuis crimine plenus Sit, non est laici ponere crimenei. Altar & alterius cleri peccata favore Excusat, quod in hijs stat sine lege reus. Non occusari vult à caliis, tamen illos Accusat, que sibi libera frena petit. Libera sunt ideo peccata placentia Clero Sit nisi quod Laici iura ferantur ibi. Presbyter insipiens populum facit insipientem, Et mala multa parit, qui bona pauca sapit. Plough man's ●●le. Chaucer writes of the same. men's wives they woollen hold, And though that they been right sorry, To speak they shall not be so bold For sompning to the Consistory: And make 'em say mouth I lie Though they it saw with her eye, His Leman holden openly No man so hardy to ask why. They ●aine to no man that it longeth To reprove them though they err. Sir Thomas Moor reports how (in this king's days) a poor man found a Priest overfamiliar with his wife; Camd. Re●iq. and because he spoke it abroad, and could not prove it, the Priest sued him before the Bishop's Official for defamation, where the poor man in pain of cursing was commanded, that in his Parish Church, he should upon the Sunday stand up, and say, Mouth thou liest. Whereupon for fulfilling of his penance, up was the poor soul set in a pew, that the people might wonder at him, and hear what he said; and there all aloud (when he had rehearsed what he had reported by the Priest) than he set his hands on his mouth, and said, Mouth thou liest. And by and by thereupon, he set his hands upon both his eyes, and said, But eyen, by the Mass, ye lie not a whit. Abbots and Priours in these days did over-awe all sorts of lay-people, yea the greatest Potentates: which made Edward the fourth write thus to the Prior of jews in Sussex, more like a poor petitioner than a great Prince, concerning a matter wherein the Prior and Covent went about to cousin his servant Vincent. Dear and well-beloved in God, Transcribed out of the original. we greet you well: and where we been enformyd yat many years past, by your letters endentyd, under your Cowent Seal, granted to our trusty and welbelowed servant, john Vincent, Esquyr, father to our right welbelowed servant Bryan Vincent, certain of your lands and rents within your Lordship of Conesburgh; to have to the said john, and to his heirs, bearing therefore a certain yearly rend specyfyd in your said indentures, and afterwards the said john, and Bryan his son, had of your grant, the same lands and tenements, with othyr, by your othyr indentures, yerupon made betwex you & tham, which indentures were sealed by you, and the said john in thabsence of his said son, delivered and left in your keeping of trust, and soon after fortuned him to be slay, at the lamentable conflict of Wakfeld, in the service of the right noble and famous Prince our father whom God rest: And now, as we hear, ye labour and intend to put our said servant his son from the said lands and tenements, contrary to your fyrst and latyr grant, a for expressed, and against right, and good conscience, if hit be as is surmised: We therefore exhort, and desyr you to suffer our said servant to have, and enjoy the said londs and tenements according to your foresaid covenants, and grants, and to delyver unto him the said later indentures concerning the same, as his father so left of trust in your keeping; And beside that to show to our said servant in any othyr matyrs lawful and reasonable, that he shall a have ado with you, your benevolences and hearty favours; and the rathyr, and mor especially at our instance and contemplation of they our letters; wherein ye shall not only do us a singular plasur, but cause us, for the same, to have you and your plas, in the more hearty favour and recomendacyon of our good graze. Yeven undre our Signet at our palas of Westminstre the nineteen day of jun. To overpass the short time during the Protectorship and reign of King Richard the third, let us come unto Henry the seventh, in whose days religious persons did wallow in all kinds of voluptuousness; to the Kings no little grief, who by his breeding under a devout mother, as also in his own nature was ever a zealous observer of religious forms. To bridle whose incontinent lives, he caused an Act to be made bearing this title. An Act to punish Priests for their incontinency. Of which, so much as will serve for this purpose: Item. For the more sure and likely reformation of Priests, Clerks, and religious men, In Pa●l. anno 3. Hen. 7. cap. 4. culpable, or by their demerits openly reported of incontinent living in their bodies, contrary to their Order: It is enacted, ordained, and established by the advice and assent of the Lords spiritual and temporal, and the Commons in the said Parliament assembled, and by authority of the same, That it be lawful to all Archbishops, and Bishops, and other Ordinaries, having Episcopal jurisdiction, to punish and chastise Priests, Clerks, and religious men, being within the bounds of their jurisdiction, as shall be convicted before them by examination and other lawful proof, requisite by the Law of the Church, of Adultery, Fornication, Incest, or any other fleshly incontinency, by committing them to ward and prison, there to abide for such time, as shall be thought to their discretions convenient, for the quality, and quantity of their trespass: And that none of the said Archbishops, Bishops, or other Ordinaries aforesaid, be thereof chargeable, of, to, or upon any Action of false or wrongful imprisonment, but that they be utterly thereof discharged in any of the cases aforesaid, by virtue of this Act. In his son's reign, the Pope being (here in England) at the point vertical of his all-commanding power, and religious Orders grown to the height of their abominable sins, both of them had a sudden downfall, as will appear in the subsequent Chapters. But of the piety and impurity of Monks and other religious Votaries, of the first and latter times, take for a conclusion of this, as also of the precedent Chapter, these rhyming Hexameters as I have them out of the book of Rufford Abbey, in Nottinghamshire: a Manuscript in Sir Robert Cottons Library. Inuectio Walonis Britonis in Monachos. Sacrilegis Monachis emptoribus Ecclesiarum Composui Satyram. Ordo Monasticus Ecclesiasticus esse solebat, Dura cibaria dum per agrestia rura colebat. Nulla pecunia, nulla negocia prepediebant, Sobria copia, parua colonia sufficiebant. Pro venialibus & capitalibus invigilabant; Tam venalia quam capitalia nostra placebant. Ordo Monasticus Ecclesiasticus est violenter Ecclesiastica comparat omna dona potenter. Ordo Monasticus Ecclesiasticus est sine fructu, Intrat ovilia desuper ostia non sine luctu. Ordo Monasticus Ecclesiasticus est sine causa, Clamat ad ostia spiritualia iam sibi clausa. Ordo Monasticus Ecclesiasticus inde vocatur, Quando rapacibus atque tenacibus assimulatur. Terra, pecunia, magna Palatia, templa parantur Vnde potencia, sive superbia magnificantur. Desunt caetera. CHAP. XIII. Of the abrogation, abolition, and extinguishment of the Pope's supreme and exorbitant authority, within the King of England's Dominions. KIng Henry the eighth upon occasion of delay, made by Pope Clement the seventh, in the controversy of divorcement betwixt him and Queen Katherine, and through displeasure of such reports as he heard had been made of him to the Court of Rome: or else pricked forward by some of his Counselors, to follow the example of the Germans; caused Proclamation to be made on the eighteenth day of September, In bib. Cott. Anno reg. 22. forbidding all his subjects to purchase or attempt to purchase any manner of thing from the Court of Rome, containing matter prejudicial to the high authority, jurisdiction and prerogative Royal of this Realm; or to the hindrance and impeachment of the King's Majesty's noble and virtuous intended purposes. Upon pain of incurring his Highness' indignation, and imprisonment, and further punishment of their bodies, for their so doing, at his Grace's pleasure, to the dreadful example of all other. Not long after, Ex Parl. an. 24. Hen. 8. cap. 12. it was enacted, that appeale●, such as had been used to be pursued to the See of Rome, should not be from thenceforth, had, neither used but within this Realm; and that every person offending against this Act, should run into the dangers, pains, and penalties, of the statute of the Provision and Praemunire, made in the five and twentieth year of the reign of King Edward the third; and in the sixteenth year of King Richard the second. And shortly after this, it being thought by the ignorant vulgar people; that to speak against any of the laws, decrees, ordinances, and constitutions of the Popes, made for the advancement of their worldly glory and ambition, Ex. Parl. an. 25. Hen. 8 ca 21. was damnable heresy; it was enacted that no manner of speaking, doing, communication, or holding against the Bishop of Rome, called the Pope, or his pretenced authority or power, made or given by humane laws or policies, and not by holy Scripture; nor any speaking, doing, communication, or holding against any Laws, called Spiritual Laws, made by authority of the See of Rome, by the policy of men, which were repugnant and contrariant to the Laws and Statutes of this Realm, or the King's Prerogative royal, should be deemed, reputed, accepted, or taken to be Heresy. It was also enacted that no manner of appeals, In eod. Parl. cap. 19 should be had provoked, or made, out of this Realm, or any the King's dominions to the Bishop of Rome, or to the See of Rome, in any causes or matters, happening to be in contention, and having their commensement and beginning in any of the Courts within this Realm, or within any the King's dominions, of what nature, condition, or quality soever they were. Upon this followed another Act, In eod Parl. cap. 20. restraining the payment of Annates, or first-fruits, to the Bishop of Rome, and of the electing and consecrating of Bishops within this Realm. Another Act was made concerning the exoneration of the King's Subjects, In eod Parl. cap. 20. from exactions and impositions, theretofore paid to the See of Rome, and for having licences and dispensations within this Realm, without suing further for the same: in which the Commons assembled complain to his Majesty, that the subjects of this Realm, and other his dominions, were greatly decayed and impoverished by intolerable exactions of great sums of money, claimed and taken by the Bishop of Rome, and the See of Rome, as well in pensions, censes, Peter-pense, procurations, fruits, suits for provisions, and expeditions of Bulls for Archbishoprickes and Bishoprics, and for delegacies of rescripts in causes of contentions, and appeals, jurisdictions, legative; and also for dispensations, licences, faculties, grants, relaxations, Writs, called Perinde valere, rehabitations, abolitions, and other infinite sorts of Bulls, breeves, and instruments of sundry natures, names, and kinds, in great numbers, over long and tedious here particularly to be inserted. S●o●. Annal. It was affirmed in this Parliament, that there had been paid to the Pope of Rome only for Bulls, by our English Bishops, and other of the kingdom, since the fourth of Henry the seventh to that time, threescore thousand pound sterling. An. 2●. Hen. 8. c●p. 1. The next year following, in a Parliament begun at Westminster, the third of November, the Pope with all his authority was clean banished this Realm, and order taken that he should no more be called Pope, but Bishop of Rome; and the King to be taken and reputed as supreme head in earth of the Church of England, called Anglicana Ecclesia. And that he their Sovereign Lord, his heirs and successors kings of this Realm, should have full power and authority, from time to time, to visit, repress, redress, reform, order, correct, restrain, and amend all such errors, heresies, abuses, offences, contempts, and enormities whatsoever they were, which by any manner spiritual authority or jurisdiction, aught or might lawfully be reform, repressed, ordered, redressed, corrected, restrained, or amended, most to the pleasure of Almighty God, the increase of virtue in Christ's religion, and for the conservation of peace, unity, and tranquillity of this Realm, any usage, custom, foreign laws, foreign authority, prescription, or any thing, or things, to the contrary thereof notwithstanding. Cap 〈…〉 In this Parliament also were granted to the King and his heirs, the first-fruits and tenths of all spiritual dignities and promotions. 〈…〉. Hen. 8. cap. ●. His stile of supremacy was further ratified, and declared to be set down in this form and manner following: in the Latin tongue by these words. Henricus octaws Dei gratia, Angliae, Franciae, & Hiberniae Rex, Fidei defensor, & in terra Ecclesiae Anglicanae & Hibernicae supremum caput. In the English tongue by these: Henry the eight, by the grace of God, King of England, France, and Ireland, defendor of the faith, and of the Church of England, and also of Ireland in earth, the supreme head. Which stile was enacted, to be united and annexed for ever to the imperial Crown of this his Highness' Realm of England. Upon the first expulsion of the Pope's authority, and King Henry's undertaking of the Supremacy; the Priests both religious and secular, did, openly in their Pulpits, so far extol the Pope's jurisdiction and authority, that they preferred his laws before the kings; yea and before the holy precepts of God Almighty. Whereupon the King sent his mandatory letters to certain of his Nobility, and others in especial office, thinking thereby to restrain their seditious false doctrine and exorbitancy. And here let me tell you that amongst many letters of important affairs, which I found in certain Chandler's shops of our Parish, allotted to light Tobacco pipes, and wrap up pennyworths of their commodities (all which I gave to Sir Robert Cotton, Knight and Baronet, the only repairer of ruined antiquirie, whom I knew (the contents thereof showing some passages of former times) would preserve them for better uses; I happened upon certain letters following tending to the same purpose: of which I have already spoken. Henry R. By the King. RIght trusty and right welbiloved Cousin we great you well. And where it is comen to our knowledge that sundry persons, aswell religious as secular Priests and curates in their peroches and d●ue●se places within this our Realm, do dailly asmuch as in them is, set forth, and extol the jurisdiction and authority of the Bishop of Rome, ortherwyse called Pope, sowing their seditious pestilent and false doctrine, praying for him in the Pulpit, and making him a God, to the great deceit, illuding and seducing of our subgietts, bringing them into errors, sedition, and evil opinions, more preferring the power, laws, and jurisdictyon of the said Bishop of Rome, than the most holly laws and precepts of almighty God. We therefore minding not only to provide for an unity and quietness to be had and continued among our said subgietts, but also greatly cou●tyng and desiring them to be brought to a perfection and knawlege of the mere verity and truth, and no longer to be seduced, nor blinded, with any such superstitious and false doctrine of any erthly usurper of gods laws, will therefore and command you, that where and whensoever ye shall found, apperceyve, know, or heretell, of any such seditious personnes, that in such wise do spread, teach, and preach, or otherwise set forth any such opinions and pernicious doctrine; to the exaltatyon of the power of the bishop of Rome, bringing thereby our subgietts into error, grudge, and murmuration; that ye indelaydly do apprehend and take them, or cause them to be apprehended and taken, and so committed to Ward there to remain without bail or mayneprise, until upon your advertisement thereof unto us or our Council ye shall know our further pleasure in that behalf. Ye ven under our Signet, at our Manor of Grenwich the xvii day of April. This letter was thus endorsed: To our right trusty and welbiloved cousin and Counsellor th'earl of Sussex. In june or july following, these majestical commanding Epistles were seconded, and made more strong by an Act of Parliament, called, An Act extinguishing the authority of the Bishop of Rome. Of which I hold it not amiss to set down so much as principally tends to the purpose. To begin then at the beginning. For as much as notwithstanding the good and wholesome laws, Ex Parl. an. 28. Hen. 8. ca 10. ordinances, and statutes heretofore made, enacted, and established by the king's Highness, our most gracious sovereign Lord, and by the whole consent of the high Court of Parliament, for the extirpation, abolition, and extinguishment out of this Realm, and other his grace's dominions, seignories, and countries, of the pretended power and usurped authority of the Bishop of Rome, by some called the Pope, used within the same or elsewhere, concerning the same realm, dominions, segniories, or countries, whi●h did obfuscat and wrest Gods holy word and Testament a long season from the spiritual and true meaning thereof, to his worldly and carnal affections: as pomp, glory, avarice, ambition, and tyranny, covering and shadowing the same with his humane and politic devices, traditions, and inventions, set forth to promote and establish his only dominion, both upon the souls, and also the bodies and goods of all Christian people, excluding Christ out of his kingdom and rule of man's soul, as much as he may, and all other temporal Kings and Princes out of their dominions; which they ought to have by God's law, upon the bodies and goods of their subjects: whereby he did not only rob the King's Majesty, being only the supreme head of this his Realm of England, immediately under God, of his honour, right, and pre-eminence, due unto him by the law of God, but spoilt his Realm yearly of innumerable treasure, and with the loss of the same deceived the Kings loving and obedient subjects, persuading to them by his laws, bulls, and other his deceivable means, such dreams, vanities, and fantasies, as by the same many of them were seduced and con●ueied unto superstitious and erroneous opinions; So that the King's Majesty, the Lords Spiritual and Temporal, and the Commons in this Realm, being overwearied and fatigated with the experience of the infinite abominations and mischiefs, proceeding of his impostures, and craftily colouring of his deceits, to the great damages of souls, bodies, and goods, were forced of necessity for the public weal of this Realm, to exclude that foreign pretended jurisdiction and authority, used and usurped within this Realm, and to devose such remedies for their relief in the same, as doth not only redound to the honour of God, the high praise and advancement of the King's Majesty, and of his Realm, but also to the great and inestimable utility of the same; And notwithstanding the said wholesome laws so made and heretofore established, yet it is common to the knowledge of the King's highness, and also to divers and many his lo●uing, faithful, and obedient subjects, how that diverse seditious and contentious persons, being imps of the said Bishop of Rome and his See, and in heart members of his pretended Monarchy, do in corners, and elsewhere as they dare, whisper, inculke, preach, and persuade, and from time to time instill into the ears and heads of the poor simple and unlettered people, the advancement and continuance of the said Bishops feigned and pretended authority, pretending the same to have his ground and original of God's law, whereby the opinions of many be suspended, their judgements corrupted and deceived, and diversity in opinions augmented and increased, to the great displeasure of almighty God, the high discontentation of our said most dread sovereign Lord, and the interruption of the unity, love, charity, concord, and agreement that ought to be in a Christian Region and congregation. For avoiding whereof, and repression of the follies of such seditious persons, as be the means and authors of such inconveniences: Be it enacted, ordained, and established by the King our sovereign Lord and the Lords spiritual and temporal, and the Commons in this present Parliament assembled, and by the authority of the same, that if any person or persons, dwelling, demurring, inhabiting, or resiant within this Realm, or within any other the King's dominions, seignories, or countries, or the marches of the same, or elsewhere within or under his obeizance and power, of what estate, dignity, pre-eminence, order,, degree, or condition soever he or they be, after the last day of july, which shall be in the year of our Lord God, 1536. shall by writing, ci●ering▪ printing, preach●ing, or teaching, deed or act, obstinately or maliciously, hold or st●nd with, to extol, set forth, maintain, or defend the authority, jurisdiction, or power of the Bishop of Rome, or of his See, heretofore claimed, used or usurped within this Realm, or in any dominion or country, being or, within, or under the King's power or obeisance: or by any presence obstinately or maliciously invent any thing▪ for the extolling, advancement, setting forth, maintenance, or defence of the same, or any part thereof, or by any pretence obstinately or maliciously attribute any manner of jurisdiction, authority, or pre-eminence to the said See of Rome, or to any Bishop of the same See for the time being within this Realm, or in any the King's dominions and countries: That then every such person or persons, so doing or offending, their aiders, assistants, comfortors, abettors, procurers, maintainers, fautors, counsellors, conceilours, and every of them, being thereof lawfully convicted, according to the Laws of this Realm; for every such default, and offence, shall incur and run into the dangers, penalties, pains, and forfeitures, ordained and provided by the statute of Provision and Praemunire, made in the sixteenth year of the reign of the noble and valiant Prince King Richard the second, against such as attempt, procure, or make provision to the See of Rome, or elsewhere, for any thing or things, to the derogation, or contrary to the Prerogative royal, or jurisdiction of the Crown, and dignity of this Realm. King Henry still hearing of the murmuring of his Subjects, upon the enacting of this Statute, writes again to his principal magistrates in every country, in this manner following. Henry R. By the King. TRusty and well-beloved we great you well; And whereas heretofore as ye know both upon most just and virtuous fowndations grounded upon the laws of Almighty God, and holy Scripture; And also by the deliberate advice, consultation, consent and agreement aswell of the Bishops and Clergy, as by the Nobles and Commons temporal of this our realm, assembled in our high Court of Parliament, and by authority of the same; the abuses of the Bishop of Rome his authority and jurisdiction, of long time usurped against us, have been not only utterly extirped, abolished, and secluded; but also the same our Nobles and Commons both of the Clergy and Temporalty by an other several Act, and upon like foundation for the public weal of this our realm, have united, knit, and annexed to us and the Crown imperial of this our realm, the title, dignity, and stile of Supreme head in earth, immediately under God, of the Church of England; as undoubtedly evermore we have been; which thing also the said Bishops and Clergy particularly in their Convocations have holly and entirely consented, recognised, ratifyed, confirmed, and approved authentiquely in writing both by their special oaths, profession and writing under their Signs and Seals, so utterly revouncing all other oaths, obedience, and jurisdiction, either of the said Bishop of Rome, or of any other Potentate. We late you wit that prepending and considering, the charge and commission, in this behalf given unto us by almighty God togedre with the great quietness, rest, and tranquillity that hereby may ensue to our faithful Subgiects, both in their conscience and otherwise, to the pleasure of almighty God, in case the said Bishops and Clergy of this our realm should sincerely, truly and faithfully set forth, declare and preach unto our said Subgiects the very true word of God, and without all manner colour dissimulation and hypocrisy, manifest, publish and declare the great and innumerable enormities and abuses, which the said Bishop of Rome, as well in title and stile, as also in authority and jurisdiction of long time unlawfully and injustly hath usurped upon us our Progenitors and all other Christian Princes; have not only addressed our letters general to all and every the same Bishops straitely charging and commanding them, not only in their proper persons to declare teach and preach unto the people the true, mere, and sincere word of God, and how the said title, stile, and jurisdiction of supreme head appertaineth to us, our Crown and dignity royal; and to give like warning, monition, and charge to all Abbots, Priors, Deans, Archdeacon's, Provosts, Parsons, Vicars, Curates, schoolmasters, and all other Ecclesiastical persons within their Dioceses to do the semblable; in their Churches every Sunday and solemn feast, and also in their scoles: And to cause all manner prayers, orisons, Rubrics, and Canons in Massebokes, and all other books used in Churches, wherein the said Bishop is named, utterly to be abolished, eradicated, and razed, in such wise as the said Bishop of Rome, his name and memory for evermore (except to his contumely and reproach) may be extinct, suppressed, and obscured. But also to the justices of our Peace, that they in every place within the precinct of their Commissions do make and cause to be made diligent serche, wait, and espial whedder the said Bishops and Clergy do truly and sincerely, without any manner cloak, or dissimulation execute accomplish their said charge, to them committed in this behalf. And to certify us and our Councail of such of them as should omytt or leave undone any part of the premises, or else in the execution thereof should coldly or feignedly use any manner synistre addition interpretation or cloak, as more plainly is expressed in our said letters. We considering the great good, and furtherance, that ye may do in these matiers in the parties about you, and specially at your being at Assizes and Sessions, in the declaration of the premises, have thought it good, necessary, and expedient to write these letters unto you, whom we esteem to be of soch singler zeal and affection, towards the glory of Almighty God, and of so faithful and loving heart towards us, as ye will not only with all your wisdoms, diligences, and labours accomplish all such things as might be to the preferment and setting forwards of God's word, and the amplification, defence, and maintenance of our said interest, right, title, stile, jurisdiction, and authority appertaining unto us, our dignity, prerogative, and Corone imperial of this our realm; will and desire you, and nevertheless straitely charge and command you, that laying apart all vain affections, respects, and carnal considerations, and setting before your ees the mirror of truth, the glory of God, the right and dignity of your Sovereign Lord, thus sounding to the inestimable unity and commodity both of yourselves, and all other our loving and faithful Subgiects; ye do not only make diligent serche within the precinct of your Commission and authority, whedder the said Bishops and Clergy do truly and sincerely as before preach, teach, and declare to the people the premises according to their duties; but also at your said sitting in Assizes and Sessions ye do persuade, show, and declare unto the said people, the very tenor, effect, and purpose of the premises, in such wise as the said Bishops and Clergy may the better not only do thereby and execute their said duties, but also the parents, and rulers of families, may declare, teach, and inform their children and servaunts in the specialties of the same, to the utter extirpation of the said Bishops usurped authority, name, and jurisdiction for ever. Showing and declaring also to the people, at your said Sessions, the treasons treacherously committed against us, and our laws, by the late Bishop of Rochester and Sir Thomas More knight, who thereby, and by divers secret practices of their malicious minds against us, intended to seminate, engender, and breed amongst our people and subgiects a most mischievous and seditious opinion not only to their own confusion, but also of diverse others, who lately have condignly suffered execution, according to their demerits: And in such wise dilating the same with persuasions, to the same our people, as they may be the better rixed, established and satisfied in the truth; and consequently that all our faithful and true subgiects may thereby detest and abhor in their hearts and heads, the most recreant and traitorous abuses and behaviours of the said malicious malefactors as they be most worthy. And finding any default, negligence, or dissimulation in any manner of person or persons, not doing his duty in this party. Ye immediately do advertise us and our Counsel of the default, manner and fashion of the same, Lating you wit, that considering the great moment, weight, and importance of this matter, as whereupon dependeth the unity, rest, and quietness of this our Realm, if ye should contrary to your duties, and our expectation and trust, neglect, be slake, or omit to do diligently your duties, in the true performance and execution of our mind, pleasure, and commandment as before; or would halt, stumble at any part, or speciality of the same; Be ye assured that we, like a Prince of justice, will so punish and correct your default and negligence therein, as it shall be an example to all others how contrary to their allegiance, oaths, and duties, they do frustrate, deceive, and disobey the just and lawful commandment of their sovereign Lord, in such things, as by the true hearty and faithful execution whereof, they shall not only prefer the honour and glory of God, and set forth the majesty and imperial dignity of their sovereign Lord, but also import and bring an inestimable unity, concord, and tranquillity of the public and common state of this Realm: whereunto both by the laws of God, and nature, and man, they be utterly obliged and bounden. And therefore fail ye not most effectually, earnestly, and entirely to see the premises done, and executed; upon pain of your allegiance, & as ye well advoyd our high indignation and displeasure at your utmost perils. Y even under our Signet, at our Manor besides Westminster the xxv day of june. Henry R. By the King: TRusty and well-beloved we great you well; And whereas we chiefly and principally regarding and tendering the quiet, rest, prosperity, and tranquillity of our Nobles and Commons, and their conservation no less than our own; directed lately our letters unto you and other justices of our Peace throughout this our Realm, containing our admonition and gentle warening, to have such special regard to the duties of your offices according to the trust we have in you; that not only for th'importance it is both unto us and our common wealth, ye should see our high dignity of Supremacy of our Church (wherewith it hath pleased almighty God by his most certain and undoubted word to endow, and adorn, our auchtorite, and Corone imperial of this our Realm) to be set forth and impressed in all our subjects hearts and minds, and to foresee that the mayntenors of the Bishop of Rooms usurped and feigned authority, with all his Papistical superstitions and abuses, wherewith he hath in times past abused the multitude of our subgiects (of whose yoke, tyranny, and scornful illusion we have by God's porveiaunce delivered this our realm, and of other his Satellites which secretly did uphold his faction) should be by you diligently searched, enqwired, and tried out, and so brought to our justices to receive condign punishment, according to their demerits; but also that tale tellers about the cuntriee, and spraders of rumours, and false inventors of news, to put our people to fear, and stir them to sedition, should be apprehended, and punished to the terrible example of others. Also that vagabonds and valiant Beggars shallbe avoided and have worthy corrections. And for the same purpose to keep watches, and to see comen justice with indifferency, and without corruption to be observed and ministered, unto all our Subgiects like as by the porporte and contents of our said Letters ye may more amply perceive. We have thereupon been credibly informed that sundry of you have, for a time, so well done your duties, and endevoired yourselves in fulfilling our admonitions, and caused the evil doers to be punished according to their demerits, that our loving Subgiects have not been disquieted of a long season, until now of late that sum ungracious, cankered, and malicious persons have taken boldness to attempt, with sundry devilish persuasions to move and seduce our true subgiects, using false lies, and most untrue rumours; And amongst them we understand, sundry Parsons, Vicars, and Curates of this our Realm to be chief; which to bring our people to darkness, of their own perverse mind, not only to blind our Commons, do read so confusely, hemming and hacking the word of God and such our Injunctions, as we have lately set forth, that almost no man can understand the true meaning of the said Injunctions, but also secretly have suborned certain spreders of Rumours and false tales in corners, which do interpreat and wrested our true meaning and intention of our said Injunctions to an untrue sense. For whereas we have ordained by our said Injunctions for thavoiding of sundry strives, processis, and contentions, rising upon age, upon lineal descents, upon title of Inheritances, upon legittimation or Bastardy, and for knowledge whither any person is our subject borne or no; Also for sundry other causes, that the names of all children christened from henceforth with their birth, their fathers and mother's names, and likewise all marriages, and burials, with the time and date thereof should be registered from time to time in a book in every Parish Church, surely and safe●y to be kept. They have bruited and blown abroad most falsely and untrewely that we do intend to make some new exactions at all christenyngs, weddings, and burials: The which in no wise we ever meaned or thought upon, alleging (for to fortify and colour there false and manifest lies) that therein we go about to take away the liberties of the realm. For conservation whereof they fain that Bishop Beckett of Canterbury, which they have to fore called Saint Thomas, died for where in deed there was never such thing done, nor meant in that time nor sithence. For the said Beckett never swarved nor contended with our progenitor King Henry the second, but only to let that those of the Clergy should not be punished for their offences, nor justified by the Courts and laws of this Realm, but only at the Bishops' pleaser, and after the decrees of Room. And the causes why he died, was upon a wilful rescue and a fray by him made and begun at Canterbury; Which was nevertheless afterward alleged to be for such liberties of the Church which he contendyd for, during his life, with th'archbishop of York: chiefly to have such privilege that no King of England ought ever to be crowned by any other Bishop but oonly by the Bishops of Canterbury. Yea and in case he should be absent or fugitive out of the Realm, the King should never be coroned by any other, but constrained to abide his return. These and such other detestable and unlawful liberties of the Church, nothing concerning the common weal, but only the party of the Clergy, the said Thomas Becket most arrogantly desired, and traitorously sewyd to have, contrary to the law of this our Realm. To the which most false interpretations and wresting of our true meaning, they have joined such mischievous lies and false tales for marking of catals, and like seditious devises; whereupon our people were lately stirred to sedition, and insurrection, to there utter ruin and destruction; unless almighty God (who by his divine providence gave unto us abundance of force, as he always doth unto rightful Princes) had so with clemency illumyned us, that where as we with th'edge of the sword, and by our laws might have overthrown and destroyed them, there wives, children and posterity for ever, we nevertheless, as ye can right well remember, extended upon them at that time, our benign and merciful pardon. These miserable and Papistical superstitious wretches, nothing regarding the same, nor caring what danger and mischief our people should incur, have both raised the said old rumours, and forged new seditious tales, intending, asmuch as in them lieth, a new commotion, and all to satisfy there cankered hearts. Wherefore and for the imminent danger to you, and all our good subgiects, and the trouble that might ensue, unless good and earnest provision to repress them, be taken thereupon; We desire and pray you, and nevertheless straitly charge and command you, that within the Precinct and lymyts of your charge; ye shall not only endeavour yourself, and employ your most diligence, to inquire and find out such cankered Parsons, Vicars, and Curates, which do not truly and substantially declare our said Injunctions, and the very word of God, but momble confusely, saying that they be compelled to read them; and bid their Parishens nevertheless to do as they did in times past, to live as their fathers, and that the old fashion is the best, and other crafty seditious parables. But also with your most effectual vigilancy, do enserche and try out such seditious tale tellers, and spreders abroad of such brutes, tidings, and rumours, touching us in honour, or surety of the state of our Realm, or any matation of the laws or customs thereof▪ or any other thing which might cause any sedition. And the same with their setters forth, maintenors, counsellors, and fautors with all diligence to apprehend, and commit to ward and prison without bail or mainprize, till upon evidence to be given against them, at th'arrival of our justices in that country, or otherwise upon your advertisement to us, or our Counsel to be given, and our further pleaser known, they may be punished for their seditious demerits, according to the law: to the fearful example of all other. Employing and endeavouring your selves thereunto so earnestly and with such dexterite, as we may have cause to think that ye be the men, which above all things desire the punishment of evil doers and offenders. And will let for no travail, to set forth all things for the comen peace, quiet, and tranquillity of this our Realm. And like as the danger is imminent no less to yourself and your neighbours then to other; so ye of your own mind should procure and see with celerite our Injunctions, laws, and Proclamations, aswell touching the Sacramentaries, and Anabaptists, as other to be set forth to the good instruction and conservation of our people, and to the confusion of those which would so craftily undermine our common wealth, and at the last destroy both you and all other our loving subgiects, although we should give unto you no such admonition. Therefore fail ye not to follow the ●ffect, admonition, and commandment both in our said letters, and in these presents contained, and to communicate the hole tenor of these our letters, with such justices of our Peace, your neighbours and other in that shire, and to give unto them the true copy thereof: exhorting them, like as by these presents we desire, and pray them, and nevertheless straitly charge and command them, and every of them, that they will show their diligence, towardness, and good inclination to join with you and other of your sort, And that every of you for his own part see the same put in execution accordingly, as ye and they tender our pleasure, and will deserve our condign thanks. Y even under our Signet at our Manor of Hampton Corte the day of December. CHAP. XIIII. Of the policy used by King Henry the eighth, and his Council, in the expelling of the Pope's authority out of his Dominions. THus you have seen the abrogation and extinguishment of the Pope's usurped authority here in England, & the establishment of that power in the Crown imperial, which was not rashly attempted by his Majesty; but undertaken upon mature deliberation, and proceeded in, by the advice, consultation, and judgement of the most great and famous Clerks in Christendom: amongst which number, was that pure Orator and learned divine Philip Melanchton; whose presence here in England (after his opinion) the king much desired; as by this letter following, sent to Secretary Cromwell from the Duke of Norfolk, and Viscount Rocheford appeareth. Master Secretary after our most hearty commendations, ye shall understand that having received the letters sent unto you from Sir john Wallop, and showed the same unto the King's Majesty, his pleasure thereupon was that we should dispatch these our letters incontinently unto you concerning th'accomplishment and doing of these things ensuing. First, his grace's pleasure is that you shall immediately upon the receipt hereof, dispatch Barnes in Post with Deryk in his company into Germany, commanding him to use such diligence in his journey, that he may, and it be possible, meet with Melanchton, before his arrival in France, and in case he shall so meet with him, not only to disuade his going thither, declaring how extremely the French king doth persecute all those that will not grant unto the Bishop of Rome's usurped power, and jurisdiction; using in this part all persuasions, reasons, and means that he can devose, to impeach, and let his said journey thither, laying unto him how much it should be to his shame, and reproach, to vary and go now from that true opinion wherein he hath so long continued. But also on tother side to persuade him all that he may to convert his said journey hither, showing aswell the conformity of his opinion and doctrine here, as the nobility and virtues of the King's Majesty, with the good entretaynement which no doubt he shall have here at his grace hand. And if percase the said Barns shall not meet● with him before his arrival in France; thenne the said Barns proceeding himself forth in his journay towards the Princes of Germany, shall with all diligence return in post to the King's highness the said Derik, with the advertisement of the certainty of Melanchtons' coming into France, and such other occurrants as he shall then know. And if the said Derik be not now ready to go with him, the King's pleasure is, you shall in his stead appoint and send such onn other with the said Barns, as you shall think meet for that purpose. And when the said Barns shall arrive with the said Princes of Germany, the King's pleasure is, he shall on his grace hehalf aswell persuade them to persist and continue in their former good opinion concerning the denial of the Bishop of Rome's usurped authority, declaring their own honour, reputation, and surety to depend thereon, and that they now may better maintain their said just opinion therein then ever they might, having the king's Majesty, oon of the most noble and puissant Princes of the world, of like opinion and judgement with them, who, having proceeded therein by great advice, deliberation, consultation, and judgement of the most part of the great and famous Clerks in Christendom, will in no wise relent, vary, or alter in that behalf, as the said Barns may declare and show unto them, by a book made by the Dean of the Chapel, and as many of the Bishop's Sermons as ye have, which book ye shall receive herwith, the copies whereof, and of the said Sermons, ye must deliver unto the said Barns at his departure, for his better remembrance and instruction. To whom also his grace's pleasure is, ye shall show as much of Sir john Wallops letter which we send you also again, as ye shall see drawn and merkt with a pen in the mergent of the same. As also exhort and move them in any wise to beware how they commit any of their affairs to theorder, direction, or determination of the French King, considering he and his counsel be altogether Papist, and addict and bend to the maintenance and confirmation of the Bishop of Rome's pretended authority. Furthermore the King's pleasure is, ye shall upon the receipt hereof immediately cause Master Haynes and Christofer Mount in post to repair into France to Sir john Wallop, in as secret manner as they can, as coming like his friends to visit him, and not as sent by the King. And in case they shall by him or otherwise learn and know that Melanchton is there arrived, than his grace would that the said Haynes and Mount shall, in such sort as they be not much noted, resort unto him, and for the disuading of his continuance there, or alteration of his opinion, and alluring of him hither, to use such reasons and persuasions as be before written, with such other as they can further devose for that purpose. To the which Haynes and Mount the King's pleasure is, ye shall deliver like copies of the said Deans book, and Bishops Sermons to be showed unto the said Melanchton, or otherwise used, as may be most expedient for th'achievement of the King's purpose in that hehalf. Ye shall also understand that the king's pleasure is, ye shall write to Sir john Wallop, and send unto him therewith like copies; willing him in case he shall have certain knowledge that th'articles be true written in these his letters concerning the French Kings sending into Germany, for the continuance of the Bishop of Rome's pretended supremacy, to repair with the said copies to the French King, and not only to set the same forth with such reasons as he can devose in that part, showing how much it shallbe against his honour, both to give himself subject to the said Bishop, and move other to do the semblable, but also to declare unto him, that the King's highness remembering his old friendly promises concerning the maintenance of his cause, and of his proceed touching the same, cannot think it a little strange that the said French King (seeing his Majesty hath in his doings touching the said Bishop of Rome, moved neither his nor any Prince's subjects) will move and stir the germans to condescend upon a contrary opinion, both to themselves, and to his grace in this behalf; And that his Majesty must needs think this Amity much touched in that he should move any state or country to do that thing, which is so moche against the King's highness and his own promise, using all the ways to disuade him from the dishonourable obedience of the said Bishops See, moving him to incline to the King's just opinion touching the same. Finally the King's pleasure is, ye shall write an other letter to the Bishop of Aberden, signifying that the King's Majesty taketh it very unkindly that the King his Nephieu would now embrace without his advice or counsel, being his dearest friend and Uncle, and now in liege and Amity with him, the marriage of Mounsieur de vandous daughter, whereunto he would give non ear at his grace's overture heretofore made of the same. In your said letter imputing a great negligence therein to the said Bishop and other of his Master's counsel, seeing their Master showeth not in the doing thereof such amity towards the King's highness, as the friendship between them doth require. And to make an end, his grace will in no wise that Barns of Haynes shall tarry for any further instruction of the Bishop of Canterbury, or any other, his grace having determined to send the same after by Master Almoner and Heth: but that he, Master Haynes, and Mount shall with all possible diligence depart immediately in post without longer tarrying then for this their depeche shall be necessary, so as their abode empeche not the King's purpose touching the said Melanchton. And thus fare you most heartily well. From Langley in moche hast this Monday at iiii of the clock at after none. Your loving Friends, T. Norfolk. George Roc●ford. Also, before the beginning of that Parliament wherein the Pope's supreme authority here in England was abolished, these remarkable Inductions following were set down, and commanded by the King and his Council to be suddenly put in execution. First, to send for all the Bishops of this realm, and specially for such as be nearest to the Court, Out of the said Mss. in bib. Cot. and to examine them a part, whether they by the law of God can prove and justify, that he that now is called the Pope of Rome is above the general Counsel, or the general Counsel above him; Or whether he hath given unto him by the law of God any more authority within the realm, than any other foreign Bishop. Item, to devose with all the Bishops of this realm, to set forth, preach, and cause to be preached to the King's people, that the said Bishop of Rome called the Pope, is not in authority above the general Counsel, but the general Counsel is above him and all Bishpos. And that he hath not by God's law any more jurisdiction within this realm than an other foreign Bishop, being of any other realm hath. And that such authority as he before this hath usurped within this realm, is both against God's law, and also against the general Counsalles; Which usurpation of authority only hath grown to him by the sufferance of Princes of this realm, and by none authority from God. Item, therefore that order be taken for such as shall preach at Paul's Cross from henceforth, shall continually from Sunday to Sunday preach there, and also teach and declare to the people, that he that now calleth himself Pope, nether any of his Predecessors is and were but only the Bishops of Rome, and hath no more authority and jurisdiction by God's law within this realm, than any other foreign Bishop hath, which is nothing at all. And that such authority as he hath claimed heretofore hath been only by usurpation and sufferance of Princes of this realm. And that the Bishop of London may be bound to suffer none other to preach at Paul's Cross, as he will answer, but such as will preach and set forth the same. Item, that all the Bishops within this realm be bound and ordered in the same wise, and cause the same to be preached throughout all their Dioceses. Item, that a special practice be made, and a strait commandment given to all Provincials, Ministers, and rulers of all the four Orders of Friars within this realm, commanding them to cause the same to be preached by all the Preachers of their religions, and through the whole realm. Item, to practise with all the Friar's observants of this realm, and to command them to preach likewise; or else that they may be stayed, and no● suffered to preach in no place of the realm. Item, that every Abbot, Prior, and other heads of religious houses within this realm, shall in like manner teach their Conuents and brethren, to teach and declare the same. Item, that every Bishop shall make special commandments to every Parson, Vicar, and Curate within his Diocese to preach and declare to his Parishioners in likewise. Item, Proclamations to be made throughout the realm containing the whole Act of Appeals; And that the same Act may be impressed, transumed, and set up on every Church door in England, to the intent that no Parson, Vicar, Curate, nor any other of the King's subjects shall make themselves ignorant thereof. Item, the King's provocations and appellations made from the Bishop of Rome unto the general Council, may also be transumed, impressed, published and set up on every Church-door in England, to the intent that if any censures should be fulminate against the king or his realm, that then it may appear to all the world, that the censures be of none effect, considering that the king hath already, and also before any censures promulged, both provoked and appealed. Item, like transumpts to be made, and sent into all other realms and dominions, and specially into Flanders, concerning the kings said provocations and appellations, to the intent falsehood, iniquity, malice, and injustice of the Bishop of Rome may thereby appear to all the world. And also to the intent that all the world may know that the King's highness standing under those appeals, no censures can prevail, neither take any effect against him and his realm. This could not well be done before the Parliament. Item, a letter to be conceived from all the Nobles, as well Spiritual as Temporal of this Realm, unto the Bishop of Rome, declaring the wrongs injuries, and usurpations used against the king's highness and this realm. Item, to send exploratours and espies into Scotland, and to see and perceive their practices, and what they intent there; And whether they will confederate themselves with any other outward Princes. Item, to send letters for that purpose to the Earl of Northumberland, my Lord Daves, and Sir Thomas Clyfford. Item, certain discreet and grave persons to be appointed, to repair into the parts of Germany, to practise and conclude some league or amity with the Princes and Potentates of Germany, that is to say, the King of Pole, john of Hungary, the Duke of Saxony, the Duke of Bavyere, Duke Frederick, the Landegrave Van Hesse, the Bishop of Magous, Bishop of Treuers, the Bishop of Collene, and other the Potentates of Germany, and also to ensearch of what inclination the said Princes and Potentates be of towards the King and this realm. Item, like practice to be made and practised with the Cities of Lubeke, Dansk, Hambourgh, Bromeswicke, and all other the steads of the Haunse Tu●onyk; and to ensearch of what inclination they be towards the King and this realm. Item, like practice to be made and practised with the Cities of Norimbourgh, and Aughsbrough. Item, to remember the Merchant's adventurers, haunting the dominions of Braband, and to speak with them. Item, to set order and establishment of the Prince's Dowagers house, with all celerity, and also of my Lady mary's house. To these (or some of these) purposes, the King dispatched messengers to all his Ambassadors and Agents beyond seas, having before that sent the Duke of Norfolk, Viscount Rocheford, Sir William Pawlet (afterwards marquis of Winchester) and others, to the Pope, the Emperor, and the French King, being all three together at Nice. He also caused his Secretary to write in this manner to james the fifth, King of Scotland. Most excellent, In predict. 〈◊〉 bib. Cot. mighty and victorious Prince, Ple●s●th your majesty that by the commandment of my most dread Lord and Sovereign King of England, your graces most dear Uncle, I have in charge, undre commission, certain special matters concerning his highness' pleasure, secretly to be signified unto your grace, wherein not only as a natural Cousyne of your royal consanguinity; but as a most loveing Father entirely tendering your worthy honour, no less desirous hereof, then regarding his own peculiar prosperity, unfeignedly accounting your grace's advancement his most conformable consolation. In consideration whereof sith it hath so pleased God of his infinite favour to revele unto his highness as well by studious endeavour of good letters, as by erudite consultacyon of famous estemyde Clerk; Also by long attempted experience, ensearching truth chyeflye in Christ's doctrine, who, saith john the fourteenth, Ego sum veritas: now clearly to perceive the thrall, captyvyte, under the usurped power of the bishop of Rome, and his ungodly laws. Wherein his highness and other many of his noble progenitors were most wickedly abusyde, to their intolerable calamity; and exceeding molestation of their Subjects, over whom God had yevon them authority and governance to rule, as by all stories of the old testament, and information of the new plainly appeareth. Which groundly known to his highness, wisshith likewise, the same to be persuaded unto your grace; whereby your honourable renown and royal authority should be much enlargyd, with no less felicity of soul, principally to be regarded, then with abundant commodity of riches, and unfeigned obeisance of faithful Subjects, ferr from the comeberous calamity of the Popysshe miserable molestacyon. What more intolerable calamity may there be to a Christian Prince, than unjustly to be defeatyd of his righteous jurisdiction within his realm? to be a King by name, and not indeed, to be a ruler without regiment over his own liege people? what more grevous molestation can chance to true hearted Subjects, than to be severed from the alliegiaunce due to their natural Sovereign, there annoyntyd King granted by God's laws, and to become servile slaves to a foreign Potentat, usurping to reign over them against the law of God? as by the violent tyranny of the Bushop of Rome hath many years hitherto been practised throughout all regions, to the ruinous desolation of the hole Christenty? what Realm is there but that the Bus●shop of Rome hath planted therein his kingdom? and established his regiment after such a subtiell way, that he and his crafty creatures were obeyed of Princes, to whom of duty they ought to have been subject: 1. Pet. 2. sive Regi tanquam praecellenti, etc. of whom all Romayn bishops have presumyd to be successors, but not followers, contrary to his example, Qui non venit ministrari, sed ministrare. In all Realms the popish practice hath had such confederacy of false forsworn factious and traitorous * Taleb●●rers. Titinylks untrue to their Sovereign, that nothing was so secretly in counsel of any Prince, but forthwith it was carried by relation to the Pope's care. And if aught were attempted against his own person, or any crookyd creature of his creation, in restraining of their extortionate claims (as there was nothing but they claimed to have authority upon) incontinent they bouncyd out their thunderbolts, and currsing fulminations, with such intolerable force of unmerciful crudelity, that they made the greatiste personages of the world to tremble and quake for fear. For by the negligent soufferaunce of Princes, through d●faute of knowledge of God's word the popish pride was so haught, his authority so preemynent, his power so puisaunte, his strength so mighty, his displeasure so dangerous, his tyranny so terrible; that scarce any durst resist; to coutrevaill none was able. Example of many excellent Princes; as john the furst, and Henry the second of gracious memory, Kings of England, here in their life times most cruelly vexed, and after there disseas, by forged leasyngs, and slanderous ympechements mysreportyd, and faulselye belied, with dispitfull dishonour of their excellent progeny. After like fashion the victorious Emperor Lodovicus enterprising to interrupt the pestilent perversity of Pope john the two and twentieth, to what careful confusion was he brought? Moreover the godly and well disposed Henry the third, Emperor of Allmayn, how traytterouslye was he betrayed by Pope Hildebrande, procuring his own son unnaturally to war against his Father, to take him prisoner, and finally to depose him of his Empereall crown? Furthermore, what Christian hart can refrain from sorrowful sighs, and morening lamentation to consider how the Innocent and harmless Prince Childevicus King of France, was extremely handelyd of his own servant Pepyne, beryved of his Kingdom through the instigation of the bishop of Rome. And no marvel though he ha● thus encroached upon Princes, being men; whereas he hath exalted himself against God, thrusting him out of his room, and settling himself in God's place, the conscience of Christian people, of whose usurped power, S. Paul prophesying, thessal 2. chap. 2. calleth him the sinful man, the son of perdition, qui est adversarius & effertur adversus omne quod dicitur Deus, adeo ut in templo Dei sedeat. Doth not he sit in the temple of God, by damnable dispensations, by dysceyvable remyssions, by dying myrracles, by feigned relics, by false religion, etc. And as he hath avoided God out of the conscience of Christian people, so hath he defeated Princes of their jurisdictions, and debarred every comen weal from their politic governance, bringing in his lawless Canons, and detestable decrees, supplanting the devyne ordinance of power given to Princely rulers. And the cause why they have been so deceived, S. Paul declareth, Eo quod dilectionem veritatis non acceperunt. This legally consideryd of your most prudent, singular, and high politic discretion, aswell by probable experience within your dominions, as by evident examples of other Christian regions, where the Popisshe unruly regiment hath reigned with intolerable usurpation, tyrannously defacing all power of Princes. It may please your gracious benygnytie to advertice the entire intent, the loving mind, and unfeigned hart of my Sovereign, your most dear uncle, so fervently moved with a faithful love, unable to be expressed, to allure your grace's affection toward the favourable embracement of God's word; wherein, his highness only rejoicing, ardently desireth to impart the same, his special joy, with your most excellent grace, which should be greatly th'advancement of your estate royal, the quietation of your loving Subjects, and most highly the pleasure of God. Now to make the Pope more odious, his Kingly power, and deliberate proceedings in these his weighty causes of greater validity, and more warrantable, as well by the laws of God, as general Counsels; he caused to be penned, and published abroad, here, and beyond seas, to the same effect in these words. If mortal creatures to their heads, Ex eod. M●ss. in bib. Cot. sovereigns, and naturel Princes, be cheeflye bound next unto God, specially where they as most careful fathers and Tutors, prudently and sagely rule and govern the great numbers and multitudes of men, committed to their obedience; And where they in their royal persons often forgetting the regard of their Princely magesties, valiantly withstand, abide and resist, whatsoever troubles, dangers, perells, assawts, wrongs, injuries, or displeasures might at any time happen, chance, threaten, or be incident unto their people, or countries, besyds many and innumerable other displeasures and troubles, which daily and heurely for the defence maintenance and supportation of their realms, people and countries, secretly happen, and chance them, their people seldom, or at no time pryvey thereunto; whereby of good congruence, all Subjects become most bounden to their sovereigns and Princes, and them ought most faithfully to love, honour, obey, serve and dread, and their magesties to maintain, support, and defend with all their power, might, strength, and hability. Then let no Englyssheman forget the most noble and loving Prince of this realm, who for the godly ensample of his people, the love and dread he hath to God, and observance of his most reverend laws, hath to the evydent knowledge of all his well-beloved Subjects long endured and abiden, to his inestimable cost, charge, trouble, vexation, and inquye●nes, * Which was the divorce betwixt him and his wife Katherine. the trial of his great cause: And at last after innumerable most famous learned men's judgements on his side therein given. Yet for all that most wrongfully judged by the great Idol and most cruel enemy to Christ's law and his religion, which calleth himself Pope, And his most just and lawful provocation and appellation from the said enemy of Christ's law to the general counsel made, also refused, denied, and forsaken; Wherefore and to th'intent all men may know the abominable wrongs, which our most noble and gracious Prince doth sustain by so unlawful intreatyngs, Therefore are these few articles hereafter following presented unto those, that shall both desire to know the truth, and in truth shall thirst and covet faithfully to assist, maintain, support, defend, and stand by their Prince and Soverayn, in his most just, lawful, and right wise cause. First that the general Counsel lawfully gathered is and aught to be superior to all jurisdictions, either usurped and suffered (as the Papal) or justly holden as kings in all matters concerning the faith and direction of the whole Church of Christ. And also aught to be judged thereby, and by the decrees of the same only, and by none other, they being consonant to the law of Christ. Secondly, that Princes have two ways principally; when none other can prevail to attain right th'one against tother; that is to say, in causes concerning the soul being mere spirituell, appellation to the general counsel In temporal causes the sword only, except by mediation of friends the matters may be compounded; So that whosoever would go about to take away these naturel defences from Princes, is to be manly withstood, both by the Princes and their Subjects. And thereto all Christien men should be animated by the words of our Lord jesus Christ, which are, Obey ye Princes above all; and then their deputyes or ministers, not geving power to forreyns within their rules and dominions. Thirdly, that diverse general Counsaills have determined, that causes of strife or controversy being ones begun in any region, shall there, and in the said region be finally determined, and not elsewhere. Upon which ground the King's highness, his nobles, both spiritual and temporal, and Commons by one hole consent, upon diverse most prudent, wise, and politic reasons, and weighty considerations, agreeable to the said general Counsaills, have made a Law, by the which good people, lyving within the lymets of true and lawful matrimony, shall not by malice or evil will be so long detained and interrupted from their right, as in times passed they have been. Neither unlawful matrimony shall have his injust and incestuous demoure and continuance, as by delays to Rome it was wont to have; Which now may evydently appear, by that, that our Prince's weighty and long protracted cause of matrimony hath his final and prosperous end, according to the laws of God, with brief success of Issue already had, and other like to follow, lawdes be to God, th'only worker of the same. Forthely, that our said Prince and Sovereign, according to the liberty and laws of Nature, and constitutions of general Counsaills (as afore) hath both provoked and appealed from the most injust and unlawful sentence wrongfully given against him, by the Bushop of Rome, to the general Counsel next ensying, and lawfully congregate, that is to say, from the sentence of the usurper of God's laws, and infringer of general Counsels, which calleth himself Pope. In the which our said Prince's doying, all just and true Christien men, specially his most loving Subjects I doubt not will support and maintain him: Which provocations and appellations also standing in force, and being intimate to the person of the said Usurper (as indeed they be) and by him denied and refused, sequestreth him rightfully from all manner of Processes belonging, or in any wise appertaining to the said fact or matter; other Diabolike acts and statutes by some of his predecessors to the contrary made notwithstanding. Wherefore what censures, interdictions, or other his cursed inventions so ever they be, fulminate or set forth by the said usurper, the same ought not only to be abhorred and despised, but manfully to be withstood and defended. And who so done shall have for their buckler the latter and better part of this verse ensuing, and the maligners the forparte, which is, Quoniam qui malignant exterminabuntur, sustinentes autem Domini ipsi heredita●unt terram. fifthly, that where indeed by holy Scripture and Christ's law, there is none authority nor jurisdiction granted more to the Bushop of Rome, then to any other Bushop, extra Provinciam, yet because that sufferance of people, and blindness of Princes with their supportation hitherto hath sustained the same, doing themselffs thereby to great injury and wrong; It is now thought therefore not only convenient, but also moche more than necessary, to open the same unto the people, to th'intent they should from henceforth no longer be distained in honouring him as an Idol; which is but a man usurping God's power and authority: And a man neither in life, learning, or conversation like Christ's minister or disciple: yea a man also (though the See apostolic were never of so high authority) unworthy and unlawful by their owen decrees and laws to occupy and enjoy that usurped place. For first he is both base, and also come to that dignity by Symonye. And now by denying the King's lawful provocation and appeal, and in supporting that Diabolike decree of his predecessor Pius, is determined by a general Counsel a very Heretic. Wherefore all true Christien people (except he amend) ought to despise both him and all his facts, and be no longer blinded by him; but give themselffs entirely to the observance of Christ's laws, in which is all sweetness and truth; and in the other nothing else but pomp, pride, ambition, and ways to make himself rich: which is much contrarious to their profession. Our Lord amend them. Likewise such was the wisdom of the King and his Council, that the best scholars of the kingdom, as well versed in history humane, as in the story of sacred Writ, were appointed to collect out of holy Scripture, Catholic Authors, and general Counsels, such material points, as might annihilate the Pope's power and authority, confirm his Majesty's Supremacy; and delineate and set forth the manifold abuses found to be practised by the Popish Clergy. Which they divided into certain membranes, containing these heads following. Ex eod. M●ss. in bib. Co●t. Regia institutio, officium, & potestas ex veteri testamento. Regia institutio, officium, & potestas ex novo testamento, Item ex authoribus Catholicis. In clerum Regia Potestas. Regia Potestas in Ecclesiam seu Concilium. Regia potestas in personas Ecclesiasticas. Regia potestas in res Ecclesiasticas. Regi Anglie legem petenti iubet S. Pontifex, ut relictis Romanorum legibus, lege Dei se ac populum Dei rogat. Regis Anglie officium & potestas. Regis Anglie in Concilium, in personas, & res Ecclesiasticas, potestas. Regis Anglie in Gualliam, Hiberniam, & Scotiam ditio. Regis Anglie in summum pontificem liberalitas. Regia in Investiendis Episcopis potestas. Regum Anglie in Investiendis Episcopis authoritas. Episcoporum jusiurandum duplex. Concilij potestas & pontificis. Regia & ecclesiastica potestas simul, tam quoad personas qaum res, seu gladij duo. Regia & Ecclesiastica potestas simul seu gladij duo in Anglia tam quoad personas quam res. Episcopale officium & Sacerdotale. Episcopi vel sacerdotis potestas. Terrenarum, temporalium, vel secularium rerum fuga Ecclesiasticis prescripta: Dominium, imperium, potentia terrena Ecclesiasticorum. judicia, leges, Negotia Ecclesiasticorum. Predia, possessiones Ecclesias. Bona Ecclesiastica cur & à quibus donata. Bonorum Ecclesiasticorum per avaritiam vel ambitum effrenis cupido: Bona Ecclesiastica cur queruntur. Honours & bona ecclesiastica quibus acquirantur artibus. Bonorum Ecclesiasticorum usus et ad quos ea pertineant. Abu sus bonorum Ecclesiasticorum per avaritiam, luxum, fastum in victu, veste, Suppellectile domestica, edificijs, nobilitando genere, per libiainem, perque otium, se● fugam laboris. Luxus et fastus in victu, veste, ac Edificijs. Convinia. Libido. Nobilitatio generis seu cognatorum. Otium, fugalaboris et pericula. Periculum. Honour et gloria. Ecclesia primitiva. Pontificis summi potestas et offcium. Pontifex de sua ipsius potestate. Pontificis potestas in electionibus et confirmationibus Episcoporum. Excomunicandi potestas. Onera et iviurie Apostolice sedis, vel dominium Romane sedis. Onera à Romana sede Anglis imposita. Annatarum origo. Annate ex Anglia. Anglorum de non soluendis Annatis decretum. Angli in Comitijs se perlamento Annatarum solucionem damnant. De Annatis & similibus ex Concilio Constan. De Annatis ex Concilio Basilien. De Annatis ex glossa pragmatice sanctionis. Bulla Nicolai Pape de approbatione Consilij Basilien. Concilij Basiliensis confirmatio ex Panormitano. Annatas Romane sedi denegare sidei Christiane non repugnas. Romanorum mores ex ijsdem authoribus. Metropolitanis legati privilegium. Ne Aclor reum extra Diocesim vocet. judicia peregrina vel Primatis iurisdictio. Vel jurisdictio Provincialis. judicia peregrina vel Iurisdicto Primatis in Anglia. Primatis vel Patriarche ius. Legati ius. Cantuariensis jurisdictio. Contra provisiones Papales. Canon's Patrum quando et quo pacto primo in Anglia recepti sunt. Fundatio Monasterij Sancti Albani. These Heads or Chapters are all succinctly handled, glossed upon, and illustrated by diverse examples, which are too long (though perhaps they would not seem tedious) for this my present discourse; I will only then insist upon the last, the foundation I mean of Saint Alban, by Ossa King of the Mercians; for that by this Donation, the Supremacy of Kings is very apparent; and also that once for all I may by this one, show my Reader the form of all those Cartularies, by which such devout Saxon Princes endowed their sacred Structures. Fundatio Monasterij Sancti Albani ubi & Regia potestas apparet. REgnante imperpetuum Deo & Domino nostro jesu Christo, licet per totum mundum beatorum Marty●um qui suum in Christo sanguinem fuderunt merita diuine laudis exultatione celebranda sint; The foundation of S. Alban Abbey. Eorumque Dei auxilio exempla gloriosa consequenda; precipue tamen nobis beatissimi Albani qui sub hac Britannie Insula gloriosus Martyrio effulsit: memoria pia semper intentione et sedula sollicitudine obseruanda est. Vnde ego offa gratia Dei Rex Merciorum cum filio meo Egfrido, pro amore omnipotentis Dei & huius Sancti intercessione terram XXX. manentium in locis quorum subinferuntur nomina Domino meo jesu Christo ad Ecclesiam sancti Albani, ubi ipse Tyro primus in passione victima effectus est iure perpetuo perdonabo. Eoque deleclabilius hanc donationem perficio, quia superna protectio tam nobilem temporibus nostris thesaurum qui diu fuit clausus, et huius terre indigenis abditus, revelare dignata est. Hec itaque supradictarum vocabula terrarum. Et Wineslawe XII. manentium cum terminis suis. Et Stelsdune sine B●ldinistotum trium Manentium, quorum scilicet trium manentium termini sunt hij. Suanaburna. Heortmere. Stretreolab. Item vero X. Manentium ubi dicitur Senecaulilan vel Feutun, cum sylua que cognominatur Lioropuda cum terminis suis. Et Lystune V. Manentium: quam videlicet terram Albumundus Abbas expeditionem subterfugiens mihi reconciliacionis gracia dabat. Et quia ipse Martyr almifluus caput et exemplum Christianitatis omnis Britannie indubitanter habetur: dignum est ut locus in quo sanctum corpus eius requiescit, et ab omni populo veneratur, speciali qua●dam et singulari privilegij libertate per nos honoretur. Hoc igitur con 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 us Episcopis et Abbatibus, Ducibus et Principibus meis sub inuo●a●ione sancle Trinitatis & indiuidue Vnitatis donando precipio, ut Ecclesia ●ancti Albani omnisque possessio nunc et in futuris temporibus illi subdita. s●mper sit libera et quieta ab omni tributo et necessitate seu Regis, seu Episcopi, ducis, indicis et exactorum et operum que iudici solent, neque emendatione Pontium, neque fossam adversum immicos faciendam, totum omne prefatur terre stipendium, et exactio ad supradicti martyris tumbam insolubiliter persoluatur. Statuo etiam, et cum fidelium meorum assensi● confirmo, ut Episcopi vel eorum Ministrinudam aliquatenus super ipsam Ecclesiam vel super perochiales Ecclesias eidem quibuscunque temporibus subiacentes nisi tantummodo cum advocati fuerint, dedicandi, vel in Paschali solennitate sanctum Chrisma et oleum ex more tribuendi potestatem habeant. ●ec earum Presbiteros ad Sinodum suam, vel capitulum convocare vel ab officio divino suspendere, seu aliquod in eos, vel minimum ius exercere presumant. Sed omnia quecunque Ecclesie sancte fuerint Abbatis solummodo ●●usdem Monasterij potestati tractanda libere subiaceant. De censu quoque singulis annis per universam Britanniam colligendo et sacre Roman Ecclesie pro slabilitate Regni nostri et salute communi transmittendo decernimus, ut quantum in terra sancti Martyris pervenerit, ab hijs quibus iniunctum fuerit ab Abbate undecunque collectum nullatenus alias asportetur, sed aliari sancti Albani fideliter oblatum ad utilitatem eiusdem Eccles●e secundum quod Abbas decreverit inviolabiliter expendatur. Esi forte quis intra eiusdem Ecclesie protestatem aut exitum cum Episcopo seu Abbate inveniatur bello surto vel fornicacione, aut alio quolibet simili reatu astrictus, semper ●a pars pene et emendacionis que Regi Episcopo committi debetur, ad beati Albani Monasterium inviolato semper federe reddatur. Credo enim et vera●iter consido quod hec munificentia non solum mihi meisque sed etiam universis Anglorum populis summopere prodesse vult. Quia pro eius amore ille miles intrepidus meruit coronari qui totius mundi pericula passus est suo sanguine expiare. Si autem quod absit uspiam quis laruarico attactus instinctu m●nte subdola hec machinatus fuerit annullare, vel quippiam in penis quod consti●uimus transuertere, sua pro audacia à cetu in hac vita anathematizetur fidelium, et in tremendo Dei examine astantibus celorum agminibus hominumque turmis, nec non et horrendis herebi vermulis palam cunctis damxetur cum hedis Auerni cruciamenta sine fine lucturus, ni ante obitum condigne emendaverit. Hec sunt nomina qui hanc donationem meam consentientes signo crucis Christi confirmaverunt. ✚ Ego offa Rex huic donationi mee signum crucis impono. ✚ Ego Egfridus paterne munificentie consentiens subscripst. ✚ Ego Higberht Archiepiscopus consensi & subscripst. ✚ Ego Ceelnulf Episcopus consensi. ✚ Ego Hethered Episcopus consensi. ✚ Ego Vmmona Episcopus consensi. ✚ Signum manus Alhmundi Abbatis. ✚ Signum Beonnon Abbatis. ✚ Signum Yigmundi Abbatis. ✚ Signum Brordon Patricij. ✚ Signum Bynman Principis. ✚ Signum Esnuini Ducis. ✚ Signum Alhumundi Ducis. ✚ Signum Yighberti Ducis. ✚ Signum Athelmundi Ducis. ✚ Signum Radgari Ducis: ✚ Signum Heardberhti Ducis. ✚ Signum Althmundi Ducis. ✚ Signum Cuthberti Ducis. ✚ Signum Radbirhti Ducis. ✚ Signum Vulpheardi Ducis. Perscripta est autem huius donationis cartula Anno Dominice incarnationu D. CC.XC.V. & Regni Regis Offani XXXV. Indictione V. sub. four Nonas Mai●s in loco qui dicitur & Beoranporda. It was generally conceived (and truly as I think) that these politic ways for the taking away from the Pope his unlimited authority here in England, as also in the suppression of religious houses (of which in the next Chapter) were principally devised by Secretary Cromwell, afterwards Earl of Essex, which may appear both by the premises and sequel of this my discourse, as also by the intimation of Nicholas Shaxton Bishop of Sarum, in a letter sent unto him the said Cromwell, thus worded. Honourable sir I certify your good mastership that I have this day received the King his most honourable letters sent unto me from you by my servant, Ex eod. lib. in bib. Cottoniana. And rejoice not a little that itt hath pleased his highness to write so earnestly unto the bishops in this so earnest a cause, thinking suyrly that God hath used your wisdom to stir up the good Prince hereunto, whereof I heighli thank the almightis Lord; preyeng you also to go on still from one thing to another, as your wisdom, yea Gods very wisdom in you exciteth and serveth you, till the usurped power of that man of Rome be clean abolished; and put out of the hearts of the kings subjects. And I shall with all my diligence apply myself to th'accomplishment of this his so godly commandment by God's grace. And for as much as I have taken my leave of the King and Queen, and tarry for noothing now but only for the instrument called Custodias temporalium. I eftsoon beseech your mastirship to have that in your remembrance when ye shall next repair unto the Court, together with a discharge for taking of any oath of the residentiaries of Sarum, which suyrly they will exact of me, whiles I bring some thing other from the King his highness, or else from you his chief Counsellor for to stop their mouths. And as for sealling of new obligations if itt like you to command your servaunt to send me them to morrow by this bringer, I shall seal them and send them to you, without any tarriance, by the grace of God: who preserve you and prosper you in all your godly purposes and interprises. Murtelack the iiii day of juin. Yorn own to command Nic. Sarum. But howsoever the honour of this act, as also of the dissolution of Abbeys be principally attributed to Cromwell and his complotments; yet at the same time there was others of the privy Council, as forward, and as able for their singular endowments, to conclude a matter of that consequence as ever was Cromwell. I mean Thomas Cranmer, Archbishop of Canterbury, whose zeal and abilities are generally known to all that ever heard of the book of Martyrs. Sir Thomas Audley Knight, speaker of the Parliament, for his demerits created by Henry the eighth, Baron Audley of Walden, and also advanced to the honour of the Chancellorship of England. Sir William Pawlet Knight, controller of the King's house, who, for his wisdom, the said King created Lord S. john of Basin, and Knight of the Garter, whom Edward the sixth made great Master of his household, Precedent of his Council, and Lord Treasurer of England; whom he created Earl of Wiltshire, and marquis of Winchester; to whom Queen Elizabeth committed the keeping of the great Seal. Who lived to see one hundred and three persons issue out of his loins, who died at Basin in Hampshire the tenth of March, 1571. where he was honourably buried, when he had lived eighty seven years. Another pillar of the State at that time, was that wise and judicious gentleman▪ Sir Richard Rich, Lord Chancellor of England, under King Edward the sixth, who in the first year of his reign, advanced him to this office, and created him Baron Rich of Leezes in Essex. These and other more of the Nobility had both their hands and heads in this business, yet Cromwell, Audley, and Rich, were thought to be the only men; who, for their religious pains, ran into great obloquy with the common people; insomuch that the Commons of Lincolnshire finding themselves fore troubled with this strange alteration, and rising in rebellion, presented diverse articles of aggrievances to the King's Majesty▪ Amongst the said Articles and demands of Robert Ask●, and his rebellious crew, the Commons of Yorkshire, Cumberland, Westmoreland, Northumberland, and the country's adjacent▪ at the conference holden at Doncaster, betwixt Thomas Duke of Norfolk, General of the King's Army, and certain Commissioners on the party of the said Captain Ask, and his fellow rebels. Thus it was propounded by their Speaker, Sir Thomas Hylton Knight. The fowrt that Thomas Cromwell, nor any of his band or sect, be not at our meeting at Doncastre, but abcent themselves from the Council. Also to have the Lord Cromwell, the Lord Chancellor, and Sir Ryc. Rich to have condign punishment, as subverters of the good laws of the ●eame, and ovetemers of the slese sect of they falls Heretics, first inventors and brengers of them. Likewise Doctor Leyton, and Doctor Le●, who had been loined in commission with Cromwell for the visitation of religious Foundations (of which hereafter) were maliciously detracted, by this demand of the Commons in the foresaid conference. Also that Doctor Lee, and Doctor Leyton, may have condign punishment for their extortions, in time of visitation, in bribes, of some religious houses, x. lib. xx. lib. and for other sums, beside horsies, vowsens, leases, undre Covent Seallys, by them taken, and other abominable acts by them committed and done. I might have occasion here to speak of the abrogation of the Pope's authority, of the subversion of religious foundations, of the suppression of religious Votaries, and of the reformation of Religion in that never-conquered Nation of Scotland, where, at this time, Religion is double refined, pure and spotless without ceremony, and plain as a pike staff without a surplise. But I will reserve this narration till I come to speak of the conversion of Scotland to the Christian faith. As also of the Funeral Monuments which are there to be found, which will be but a few, if Sir Robert Cottons Library do not help me, for by my own observation, in the famous maiden-citie of Edinburgh, and in the Parish Churches of other Towns, the Sepulchers of the dead are shamefully abused, or quite taken away, yea and the Churches themselves, with religious houses, and other holy places, violated, demolished, or defaced. CHAP. XV. The policy used by the King and his Council for the dissolution and extirpation of Religious Foundations, and Religious Orders, within this Realm of England and Wales. The reformation of Religion. of Inscriptions in Churches. The Kings warrant of the surrender of Religious Houses. An information made to Queen Elizabeth of the several abuses done unto the State general, and Crown, by the corruption of such as were employed by her Father upon the suppression of Abbeys. HEnry the eighth having (as ye have heard) thus settled the Supremacy where he would have it, either by the advice of politic Cromwell, or by the example of proud Wolsey, or else of himself (he being nothing so scrupulous in conscience, nor so stayed in sacred resolutions as was Henry the fourth) upon a greedy desire to enrich his coffers, began now to lay plots, devices, and projects for the utter subversion of all Abbeys, Priories, Nunneries, and other religious foundations; within this his kingdom of England and Wales: and first for an induction to the business, He put in Commission his servant Cromwell, Thomas Lee, and Richard Laiton, Doctors of the Civil Law, Thomas Bedell, Deane of Cornwall, Thomas Bartlet public Notary, and others, to visit all the foresaid religious Houses, and to make inquiry of their Orders, Founders, values, debenters, relics, pilgrimages, and other Queres: but most especially they were to make diligent scrutiny, and to learn, vijs & modis omnibus, by all manner of means the wicked abuses of those times, practised amongst the Fraternity, and Sisterhood of each several Covent. Which with their Commission they returned; making a shameful discovery of the bestial sensuality of Monastic profession. This general visitation began in the month of October, and in February next following, a Parliament upon prorogation was holden at Westminster, in which these unspeakable crimes of all the Covents were certified by the Commissioners to the King, and that high Court. Upon the reading whereof, because their offences were found to be many and odious, or that King Henry would have it so (which I rather believe) it was enacted by both houses in that present Parliament, Stat. in 27. Hen. 8. ca 28. that all religious houses of and under the yearly value of two hundred pound, within the whole Realm of England and Wales, should be given and granted to the King and his heirs for ever: with all and singular the lands, tenements, rents, reversions, goods, cattles, debts, ornaments and jewels, with all things else thereunto, or to their Orders, in any wise appertaining or belonging. The number of these houses then suppressed, were three hundred seventy six. The value of their lands, yearly as then easily rated, was twenty nine thousand forty one pounds three pence half penny qua: others, for thirty two thousand pound, and more, the movable goods as they were sold, Robin Hoods pennyworths, amounted to more than one hundred thousand pounds, the religious persons that were put out of the same houses, were in number above ten thousand. It was a pitiful thing to here the lamentation that the people in the country made for them, for there was great hospitality kept among them, and as it was thought more than ten thousand persons, masters, and servants, had lost their livings, by the putting down of those houses at that time. Before the dissolution of these religious houses, the plot was laid for the suppression of the rest. For first of all, for an introduction to that which followed, Cromwell and the rest of the Visiters, in their visitations, put forth of their Covents all religious persons, that desired to be eased of the burdenous yoke of their profession, to whom the Abbot or Prior was to give to such so departed for their habit, a Priest's gown, and forty shillings of money. The Nuns to have such apparel as secular women wore, and to go whither they would. They put forth likewise all religious persons that were under the age of four and twenty years, and afterwards closed up the residue that would remain, so, that they could not come out of their places; and took order that no man should come to the houses of women, nor women to the houses of men, but only to hear their service in the Church. This little bondage, after so long and so licentious a time of liberty, could not be endured; which being perceived by the Commissioners, with fair promises of other preferments, or competent yearly pensions, they so wrought with the Abbots, Priors, and Prioresses, and the rest of the Covents, that diverse of them surrendered up their houses with the appurtenances into the King's hands, before the sitting of this Parliament, as by these words in the foresaid Act doth plainly appear. And also be it enacted, that his Highness shall have to him and his heirs all and singular such Monasteries, Abbeys, and Priories, which at any time within on year next before the making of this Act, hath been given and granted, by any Abbot, Prior, Abbess, or Prioress, under their Covent Seal, or that otherwise hath been suppressed or dissolved, and all and sin●gular the lands, tenements, goods, etc. interests and hereditaments, etc. to the same appertaining and belonging. Now (by the example of these, or by what other means I know not) the rest of the Abbots, Priors, Abbesses, and Prioresses, at other times, with unanimous consent of their Covents, in great compunction of spirit, contrition of heart, and confession of their manifold enormities, did severally give and grant to the King's Majesty, and to his heirs, all their right and interest which they had in their Monasteries, lands, goods, or hereditaments; by certain instruments or writings under their hands and S●ales, of which I will set down one or two for example, which I had from my loving friend, Master john Masters, Master of the Augmentation Office; in form as followeth. But first will it please you read the copy of the Kings Warrant, to such his Commissioners as were to take the Surrenders of Religious houses. The form of which thus followeth. Henry the eighth, etc. To our trusty, etc. Forasmuch as we understand that the Monastery of S. A. is at this present in such state, as the same is neither used to the glory of God, nor to the benefit of our Common wealth, We let you wit, that therefore being minded to take the same into our own hands for a better purpose; like as we doubt not but the head of the same willbe contented to make his surrender accordingly, we for the spesyall trust and confidence that we have in your fydellity, wisdoms and discretions, have, and by these presents, do authoryse, name, assign, and appoint you, that immediately repairing to the said House, ye shall receive of the said Head such a writing under the Covent Seal, as to your discretyons shall seem requisite, meet, and convenient, for the due surrender to our use of the same, and thereupon take pos●sessyon thereof, and of all the goods cattelles' plate, fuel●es, implements and stuff, being within, or apperteyneng thereunto. And further causing all the goods and implements to be indisterently sold, either for ready money, or at days upon sufficient sureties; so that the same day pass not one year and a half. Ye shall deliver to the said Head and Brethren, such part of the said money and goods, as ye by your discresyons shall think meet and convenient for their despeche. And further to see them have convenyente pensyons, by your wysdomes' assigned according: which done, and moreover seeing the rightful and due debts thereof paid and satisfied, as well of the revenues as of the said stuff, as to reason and good ●onscyens appertaineth, and your charges reasonably allowed, ye shall proceed to the dissolutyon of the said house: And further in your name take possession of the same to be kept to our use and profit. Ye shall furthermore bring and convaye to our Tower of London after your said discressyons all the rest of the said money, Plate, jewels, and ornaments that in any wise shall come to your hands by mean of the premysses, or of any part thereof. Straitely charging and commanding all Maires, Sheryffes', Bayli●●●s, Constables, and all other our Officers, Ministers, and Subjects, to whom in this case it shall appertain, that unto you, and every of you in execution hereof, they be helping, aiding, savouring, and assisting, as they will answer unto us to the contrary at their uttermost perrilles. Yeven, etc. The resignation or surrender of the Prior and Covent of Saint Andrew's, Northampton: with a recognition of their manifold enormities. Most noble and virtuous Prince, our most righteous and gracious Sovereign Lord, and undoubted Founder, and in earth next under God Supreme heed of this english Church. We your Gracies poor and most unworthy Subjects, Francies, Prior of your Grace's Monastery of Saint Andrew the Apostle, within your Grace's Town of Northampton, and the hole Covent of the same, being stirred by the gryffe of our conscience, unto great contrition for the manifold negligence, enormities, and abuses, of long time by us and other our predecessors, undre the pretence and shadow of perfect Religion, used and committed, to the grevous displeasure of almighty God, the crafty deception, and subtle seduction of the pure and simple minds of the good Christian people of this your noble Ream, knowlegen our selves to have grievously offended God, and your Highness' our Sovereign Lord and Founder. Aswell in corrupting the conscience of your good Christian subjects, with vain, superstitious, and other unprofitable ceremonies, the very means and plain inductions to the abominable sin of Idolatry; as in omytting the execution of such devout and due observaunces, and charitable acts as we were boun●den to do, by the promises, and avow made by us and our predecessors, unto Almighty God, and to your graces most noble progeni●ors, original Founders of your said Monastery. For the which observances, and deed of charity, only your said Monastery was endowed with sundry possessions, jewels, ornaments, and other goods, movable and unmoveable, by your graces said noble progenitors. The revenues of which possessions, we the said Prior and Covent, voluntaryly only by our proper conscience compelled, do recognyce, neither by us, nor our predecessors to have been employed according to the original intent of the Founders, of your said Monastery; that is to say, in the pure observance of Chrysts Religion, according to the devowte rule, and doctrine, of holy Saint Benedict, in vertuose exercise, and study, according to our profession and avow; ne yet in the charitable sustaining, comforting, and relieving of the poor people, by the keeping of good and necessary hospitality. But as well we as others our predecessors, called religious people within your said Monastery, taking on us the habit or outward vesture of the said rule, only to the intent to lead our liffes in an idle quietness, and not in vertuose exercise, in a stately estimation, and not in obedient humility, have undre the shadow, or colour of the said Rule and habit, vainly, detestably, and also ungodly, employed, yea rather devoured, the yearly revenues yssuing and coming of the said possessions, in continual ingurgitations and farcyngs of our carrion bodies, and of others, the support●res of our voluptuose and carnal appetite, with other vain and ungodly expensies; to the manifest subvertion of devotion, and clennes of lyving; and to the most notable slander of Chrysts holy evangely, which in the form of our profession, we did ostentate, and openly advaunte to keep most exactly: withdrawing thereby from the simple, and pure minds of your grace's subjects, the only truth and comfort, which they ought to have by the true faith of Christ. And also the devyne honour, and glory, only due to the glorious Majesty of God almighty, stering them with all persuasions, enginings, and police, to dedd Images, and counterfeit relics, for our damnable lucre. Which our most horrible abominations, and execrable persuasions of your grace's people, to detestable errors, and our long covered Ipocrysie cloaked with feigned sanctite; We revolving daily, and continually pondering in our sorrowful hearts, and thereby perseyving the botomlas gulf of everlasting fire ready to devowre us, if persysting in this state of lyving, we should depart from this uncertain and transitory life; constrained, by the intolerable anguish of our conscience, called as we trust by the grace of God, who would have no man to perish in sin: with hearts most contrite, and repentante, prostrate at the noble feet of your most royal Majesty, most lamentably do crave of your highness, of your abundant mercy, to grant unto us, most grevous against God, and your highness, your most gracious pardon, for our said sundry offences, omyssyons, and negligences, committed as before by us is confessed, against your highness, and your most noble progenitors. And where your highness, being supreme head, immediately next after Christ, of his Church, in this your royalme of England, so consequently general and only reformator of all religious people, there, have full authority to correct or dissolve at your grace's pleasure, and liberty, all Covents and Religious companies abusing the Rewles' of their profession. And moreover to your highness, being our soveraygn Lord, and undoubted founder of your said Monastery, by dissolution whereof appertaineth only the original title, and proper inheritance, as well of all other goods movable and unmoveable, to the said Monastery in any wise appertaining or belonging, to be dissposed, and employed, as to your graces most excellent wisdom shall seem expedient and necessary. All which possessions, and goods, your highness for our said offences, abuses omyssyons, and negligences, being to all men obedient, and by us plainly confessed, now hath, and of long time past hath had, just and lafull cause, to resume into your grace's hands and possession, at your grace's pleasure. The resumption whereof, your highness nevertheless, lick a most natural loving Prince, and clement governor, over us your grace's po●e, and for our offences, most unworthy subjects, hath of long season differred, and yet doth, in hope and trust of our voluntary reconciliation and amendment, by your graces manifold, loving, and gentle admonyshments, showed unto us by diverse and sundry meanies. We therefore considering with our selves your graces exceeding goodness and mercy, extended at all times unto us, most miserable trespassers against God and your highness; For a perfect declaration of your unfeigned contrition and repentance, feeling our selves very week, and unable to observe and perform our aforesaid avows and promises, made by us and our predecessors, to God, and your graces noble progenitors; and to employ the possessions of your said Monastery, according to the fyrst will and intent of the original Founders. And to the intent that your highness, your noble heirs and successors, with the true Christian people, of this your grace's royalme of England, be not from henceforth eftsoon abused with such feigned devotion, and deyllysh persuasions, undre the pretext and habit of Religion, by us or any other, which should happen to bear the name of religious within your said Monastery. And moreover, that the said possessions and goods should be no longer restrained, from a better or more necessary employment. Most humble beseechen your highness, our most gracious sovereign Lord and Founder, that it might lick your Majesty, for the discharging and exoncrating us, of the most grevous burden of our pained consciens, to the immynent apparel and danger of our damnation, that we should be in, if by persisting in the state that we now rest in, we should be the let of a more godly and necessary employment: graciously to accept our free gifts withought coercion, persuasion, or procurement, of any creature living, other than of our voluntary free will, of all such possessions, right, title, or interest, as we the said Prior and Covent hath or evyr had, or are supposed to have had, in or to your said Monastery of Northampton aforesaid. And all and every parcel of the lands, advousons, comodytes, and other revenues, whatsoevyr they been belonging to the same And all manner of goods, jewels, ornaments, wi●h all other manner of cattles, movable and unmoveable, to the said Monastery in any wise appertaining or belonging, into whoes hands or possession to evyr they been come into, to be employed, and disposed, is to your graces most excellent wisdom shall seem expedy●nt and necessary. And although, most gra●cious sovereign Lord, that the thing by us given unto your highness, is properly and of right aught to be your graces own, as well by the merit, of our offences, as by the ordre of our grace's laws; Yet notwythstan●dyng we eftsoon most humble beseechen your highness, graciously and benevolently to accept our free will, with the gift thereof, nothing requiring of your Majesty therefore, other than your most gracious pardon, with some piece of your grace's alms, and abundant charity towards the maintenance of our poor lyving, and licence henceforth to live in such form in correcting the rest of our liffes, as we hope to make satisfaction thereby to God, and your highness: for our hypocrisy, and other our grevous offences by us committed, as well again his Di●te, as your Majesty. And for the more infallible proof that this our recognytion unto your highness, is only the mere and voluntary Act of us the said Prior and Covent aforesaid, withought any compulsion, or inducement, other then of our propre consciens, we have not only published the same, openly in the presence of your graces true and faithful subjects, and servants, Sir William Apparre, Knight, Richard Layton, Doitor in the Laws, Arche●deacon of Buckingham, and Roberd Southwell, Atturnay for the Augmentations of your graces most noble Crown your grace's commissioners here, with divers other that were present at that tyme. And under this our present Recognition Sealed with our Covent Seal, subscribed our own names; but also have made sealed with our Covent Seal, and delivered to the said Roberd Sowthwell to your highness' use, a sufficient and lawful dead, framed according to the form of your grace's laws, for the possessing your grace, your noble heirs, and successors thereof for ●uyr, to be presented by him unto your highness, together with this our free Recognition and assent; offering our selves most humbly unto your highness, to be at all times ready ●o do from time to time, any other Act or Acts, as by your highness, and your most honourable Council shall be of us farther required, for the more persight Assurans of this our voluntary surrendre and gift unto your highness. And finally we most humbly, and reverently, with ●abundant tears proceeding from our hearts, having before our even our detestable offences, submit our selves totally to the ordre of God, and your merciful and benign Majesty, most heartily beseeching almighty God to grant your highness, with the noble Prince Edward your grace's most noble and natural son, next unto your grace the most preci●ous ●uell, and chyse comfort of this your grace's royalme, long to live among us, your natural and true subjects, with prosperous and fortunate success, of all your graces honourable and devout proceedings, which hitherto thorough your grace's most excellent wisdom, and wonderful industry, assidually solycyted about the confirming and stabyshing mens consciens continually vexed, with sundry doubtful opynions, and vain ceremonies, have taken both good and laudable effect; to the undoubted contentation of Almighty God, the great renown, and immortal memory of your graces hie wisdom and excellent knowledge, and to the spiritual weal of all your grace's subjects. Datyd and subscrybyd in our chapter the first day of March in the xxix year of your grace's Reign. By the hands of your graces poor and unworthy subjects. Per me Franciscum Priorem. Per me johannem subpriorem. Per me Tho. Smyth. Per me Tho. Golston. Per me Rob. Martin. Per me jacob. Hopkins. Per me Ric. Bunbery. Per me johannem Pette. Per me Io. Harrold. Per me Tho. Barley. Per me Will. Ward. Per me Tho. Atterbury. Per me Will. Fowler The Surrender of the Warden and Friars of S. Francis in Stanford. For as much as we, the Warden, and Freers, of the house of Saint Frances in Stannforde, commonly called the grey Freers in Stannford, in the County of Lincoln, do profoundly concider that the perfection of Christian living doth not conciste in doom ceremonies, wearing of a grey cootte, disgeasing ourself after strange fashions, doking, and becking, in gurding our selves with a gurdle full of knots, and other like Papistical ceremonies, wherein we have been moost principally practised, and misselyd in times past; but the very true way to please God, and to live a true Christian man, with out all ypocrasie, and feigned dissimulation, is sinceerly declared unto us by our Master Christ, his Evangelists, and Apostles. Being mindyd hereafter to follow the same; conforming our self unto the will and pleasure of our supreme head undre God in earth the King's Majesty; and not to follow henceforth the superstitious traditions of of any forincycall potentate, or poor, with mutual assent, and consent, do submit our selves unto the mercy of our said soveraygn Lord. And with like mutual assent and consent, do surrender, and yield upe unto, the hands of the same, all our said house of Saint Frances in Stannforde commonly called the grey Friars in Stannforde, with all lands, tenements, gardens, meadows, waters, pondyards, fedyng, pastures, comens, rents, reversions, and all other our interest, rights, or titles, aperteyning unto the same: most humbly beseeching his most noble grace, to disspose of us, and of the same as best schall stoned with his most gracious pleasure. And farther freely to grant unto every on of us his licens undre wreting and Seal, to change our abites into secular fashion, and to receve such manner of livyngs, as other secular priests commonly be preferred unto. And we all faithfully schall prey unto allmyghty god long to preserve his most noble grace, with increase of moche felicity and honour. And in witness of all and singular the premysses, we the said Warden, and Covent of the grey Freers in Stannforde, to thes presents have put our Covent Sceall the yeght day of Octobre, in the thirty the year of the raygn of our most Soverayne King Henry the yeght. Factum johannis Schemy Guardian: Per me Fratrem johannem Robards. Per me Fratrem johannem Chadwhort. Per me Fratrem Richardum Pye. Per me Fratrem johannem Clarke. Per me Fratrem johannem Quoyte. Per me Fratrem johannem German. Per me Fratrem johannem Yong. Per me Fratrem johannem Lovel. Per me Fratrem Willielmum Tomson. With the like petition and recognition of their several delinquencies, the Prior and Covent of the White Friars Carmelites in Stanford, the abbot and Covent of our blessed Lady of Bidlesden, the Warden and brethren of the grey Friars of Coventrie, Bedford, and Alesbury, surrendered up them houses into the king's hands. Battle Abbey in Sussex, Martin Abbey in Surrey, Stra●ford Abbey in Essex, Lewis in Suffex, Saint Austin's in Canterbury, the new Abbey at the Tower hill, the Minories without Aldgate, the Nunnery at Clerken well: The Hospital of Saint Thomas Akers, the Blackfriars, the White-friar's, the grey Friars, and the Charterhouse Monks in London, with the most, or all other, were surrendered after the same manner. In September the same year. Viz. An. 30. Hen. 8. by the special motion of great Cromwell, all the notable images, unto the which were made any especial pilgrimages, and offerings, as the images of our Lady of Walsingham, Ipswich, Worcester, the Lady of Wilsdon; the rood of Grace, of our Lady of Boxley, and the image of the rood of Saint Saviour at Bermondsey, with all the rest, were brought up to London, and burnt at Chelsey, at the commandment of the foresaid Cromwell, all the jewels, and other rich offerings, to these, and to the Shrines, (which were all likewise taken away or beaten to pieces) of other Saints throughout both England and Wales, were brought into the King's Treasury. In the same year also the Abbey of Westminster was surrendered, being valued to dispend by the year three thousand four hundred and seventy pound, or by some 3977. l. 6. s. 4. d. ob. q. as in the Catalogue of religious houses; the Monks being expelled, King Henry placed therein a Dean and Prebendaries, and made the last Abbot, whose name was Benson, the first Dean; in the time of Edward the sixth it was made a Bishops See, shortly after (the benefits of the Church being abridged) it came again to a Dean and Prebends; Again Queen Marie ordained there an Abbot and his Monks, who continued not many years, but were again cut off by Act of Parliament. And lastly Queen Elizabeth (that wonder of the world) made it a collegiate Church, or rather a Nursery for the Church, saith Norden, for there she ordained (to the glory of God, the propagation of true Religion and good literature) a Dean, twelve Prebendaries, an upper master, and an Usher for the School, forty Scholars, called the Queens or King's Scholars, who (as they become worthy) are preferred to the Universities, besides Ministers, Singers, and Organists; ten Choristers, and twelve well deserving Soldiers. Thus you see the interchangeable vicissitude of her foundation, and if it had not been for the reverend regard they had of the Sepulchers, inauguration and unction here of their famous Ancestors, these forenamed Kings (if I may ground my reason upon the passages of those times) had taken her comings in, to have inrich● their own coffers, despoiled her o● her unualuable wealth and ornaments, and battered down to the ground her sacred Edifice. The fifth of December ●n the soresaid year, the Abbey of Saint Alba●s was surrendered, by the Abbot and Monks there, by delivering the Covent Seal into the hands of Tho. Pope, D. Peter, Master Canendish, and others the King's visiters. 〈…〉 13. Now all, or the most of all, the religious houses in England and Wales, being thus surrendered, the King summoned another Parliament at West●minster; for howsoever these forenamed religious orders, and other more, of their own free and voluntary minds, good wills, and assents, without constraint coaction or compulsion (as are the words in the Statute) of any manner of person or persons, by due order of law, and by their sufficient writings of Record, under their Covent, and common Seals; had already gruen, granted, and confirmed, renounced, left, and forsaken, all their religious h●u●●s, with their lands, and all other the appurtenances to the same belonging● unto the King his heirs and successors for ever. Yet it was thought necessary by the King and his Council, that these their ●o u●ta●ic donations should be further ratified by authority of that high 〈◊〉 whereupon it was enacted, that all Monasteries, with their Scites, circuits and precincts; la●ds, Lordships, and all other franchises, not only those which were surrendered or dissolved, before the session of this Parliament, but also such as were to be surrendered or dissolved hereafter, should be vested, deemed, and adjudged to be in the very actual and real season, and possession of the King his heirs and successors for ever. The religious Order of Saint john's of jerusalem, whose chief mansion house was in the precincts of Clerkenwell Parish, within the Country of Middlesex, consisting of gentlemen and soldiers, of ancient families and high spirits, could by no means be brought in, to present to his Majesty any of these puling petitions, and public recognitions of their errors, thereby, like the rest, to give a loaf, and beg a shive, to turn themselves out of actual possession, and lie at the King's mercy for some poor yearly pension. But like sto●●● fellows stood out against any that thought to enrich themselves with their ample revenues, until they were cast out of their glorious structures, and all other their estates, for these causes following alleged against them in open Parliament; as appears by the statute beginning thus. 〈…〉 2. 〈…〉 The Lords Spiritual and Temporal, and the Commons of this present Parliament assembled, having credible knowledge, that diverse and sundry the king's subjects, called the Knights of the Rhodes, otherwise called Knights of Saint john's; otherwise called Friars of the religion of S. john of jerusalem in England, and of a like house being in Ireland, abiding in the parties of beyond the sea, and having aswell out of this Realm, as out of Ireland, and other the King's dominions, yearly great sums of money for maintenance of their livings, Have unnaturally, and contrary to the duty of their allegiances sustained, and maintained, 〈…〉 power and authority of the Bishop of Rome, lately used and 〈◊〉 within this Realm, and other the King's dominions, and have not only adhered themselves to the said Bishop, being common enemy to the King our sovereign Lord, and to this his Realm, untruely upholding, knowledging, and affirming maliciously and traitorously, the same Bishop to be supreme, and chief head of Christ's Church, by God's holy word. Intending thereby to subvert and overthrow the good and godly laws and statutes of this realm, for the abolishing, expulsing, and utter extincting of the said usurped power and authority: but also have defamed and slandered as well the King's Majesty, as the Noblemen, Prelates, and other the Kings true and loving subjects of this Realm, for their good and godly proceeding in that behalf. Upon these causes and other considerations, it was enacted, That the Corporation of the said Religion, as well within this Realm, as within the King's dominion, and Land of Ireland, should be utterly dissolved, and void to all intents and purposes. And that Sir William Weston Knight, as then Prior, of the said Religion, of this Realm of England, should not be named or called from henceforth, Prior of Saint john's of jerusalem in England, but by his proper name of William Weston Knight, without further addition touching the said Religion. And that likewise Sir john Rauson knight, being then Prior of Kilmainam in Ireland, should not be called or named from thenceforth, Prior of Kilmainam in Ireland, but only by his proper name of john Rauson, knight, without farther addition. And that none of the Brethren or Confriers of the said Religion within this Realm of England, and Land of Ireland, should be called Knights of the Rhodes, or knights of Saint john's, but by their own proper Christian names, and surnames of their parents without any other additions. And furthermore it was enacted under a great penalty, that they should not wear about their necks, in, or upon any apparel of their bodies, any chain with a jerusalem Cross, or any other sign mark, or token thereto●fore used, and devised, for the knowledge of the said Religion, and that they should not make any congregations, chapiters, or assemblies touching the same Religion, or maintain, support, use, or defend any liberties▪ franchises, or privileges, theretofore granted to the said Religion, by the authority of the Bishop of Rome, or of the See of the same. Lastly, it was granted by the authority of the said Parliament, that the King's Majesty, his heirs and successors, should have and enjoy their said mansion house in the Parish aforesaid, within the County of Midlesex; and also the Hospital of Kilmainam in Ireland, with all their appurtenances for ever. Yet it was provided by the said Act, that Sir William Weston and Sir john Rauson Priors, as also some other of the Confriers, should have a certain annual pension during their lives, with some reasonable proportion of their own proper goods. And this was done (saith the words in the statute) by the agreement and assent of the Kings most excellent goodness. Sir William Weston had given unto him one thousand pound of annual rent or pension. Sir john Rauson five hundred Marks. Clement West Confrier, two hundred pound. Thomas Pemberton, fourscore pound. Gyles Russell, one hundred pound. George Ailmer, one hundred pound. john Sutton, two hundred pound. Edward Bellingham, an hundred pound. Edward Browne fifty pound. Edmund Husse, an hundred Marks. Ambrose Cave, an hundred Marks. Thomas Copledyke, fifty pound. Cuthbert Leighton, threescore pound. Richard Broke, an hundred Marks. Henry Poole two hundred Marks. William Terrell, thirty pound. john Rauson, Confrier, two hundred Marks. To Anthony Rogers, Oswald Massingberd, james Husse, Thomas Thornell, Nicholas Hopton, Philip Babington, Henry Gerard, Dunstan Nudegate, Nicholas Lambert, and David Gonson, being Confriers professed, and having no certain living, was given ten pound a piece of yearly pension. And if any pro●es●ed in the said Religion were negligently forgotten, or omitted out of that present Act, for lack of knowledge of their names; yet it was ordered by the same, that they should have such honest, convenient, and reasonable yearly pension, and portion of goods, as should please the King's Majesty to limit and appoint. And by the said Act Io●n Mableston, Subprior of this Hospital in England; William Ermested Master of the Temple of London: Walter Lymsey, and john Winter Chapleines; were authorized to receive and enjoy, during their natura●l lives, all such mansion houses, stipends, and wages, in as large and ample manner, as ever they did before the sitting of that Parliament. What other pensions were given, or how much the value in money was of the yearly profits of these four last remembered, I do not read. But the annuities or pensions appointed to the said two knights, and the Confriers, amounted to the sum of two thousand eight hundred and seventy pound the year, issuing out of the lands to this Hospital appertaining. And I find that at the very same time of the dissolution of this Fraternity, certain lusts and Tourneaments being holden at Westminster, wherein the challengers against all comers were, Sir john Dudley, Sir Thomas Seymor, Sir Thomas Poinings, Sir George Carew, knights, Antony Kingston, and Richard Cromwell, Esquires. To each one of which, for a reward of their valiantness; the King gave an hundred Marks of yearly revenues, and an house to dwell in, and both of them, to them and their heirs for ever, out of the lands and livings belonging to this Hospital. Of such a large extensure were her possessions. And much what after this manner, the rest of the Manors, honours, lands, tenements, rents, and reversions, were bestowed; and likewise at that time upon small considerations, the scite and lands of all other Monasteries were begged, bought, and alienated by such who respected their own profit above the service of Almighty God. Albeit it was then declared, saith Camden, that such religious places, being of most pious intent consecrated to the glory of God, might have been according to the Canons of the Church, bestowed in exhibition and alms for God's Ministers, relief of the poor, redemption of captives, and repairing of Churches. All Monasteries being thus suppressed; it followed that (under a fair pretence of rooting out of superstition) all Chanteries, 〈…〉. ●7. Hen. 8. ●●. ●. Colleges, and Hospitals, were likewise by Act of Parliament left to the dispose and pleasure of the King: And all these Monuments (aforesaid) of our forefather's piety and devotion, to the honour of God, the propagation of Christian saith and good learning, Camd. ●●. ●●●. 〈◊〉. and also for the relief and maintenance of the poor and impotent (if without offence I may speak the truth.) All these, I say, for the most part, were shortly after; to wit, within the remainder of his reign, and the short time of his Sons, King Edward the sixth: every where pulled down, their revenues sold and made a way: and those goods and riches which the Christian piety of our English Nation had consecrated unto God, Id●●●●●●. l. since they first professed Christianity, were in a moment, as it were, dispersed, and (to the displeasure of no man be it spoken) profaned. Thus have you seen, by degrees, the fatal and final period of Abbeys, Priories, and such like religious Structures; with the casting out to the wide world of a●l their religious Votaries: chiefly occasioned by their own abominable crying sins, more than by any other secondary means; as plainly doth appear by the premises All which Queen Mary attempted to have restored to their pristine estate, and former glory. But all in vain; for these religious Edi●ices with the lands and possessions thereunto belonging, were so infringed, alienated and transferred, that neither the power of Majesty, nor the force of Parliament, could reduce them again to the proper use, for which by the Founders they were intended. Howsoever she (being a Prince more zealous than poli●●ke● resigned, and confirmed by Parliament, to God and holy Church, all those Ecclesiastical revenues, Parl. An 2. C● 3. 〈…〉 C. ●. 4. which by the authority of that high Court, in the time of her father King Henry had been annexed to the Crown, to the great diminution and impoverishing of the same. And this she did frankly and freely, moved thereunto by her own conscience, saying (with a Christian and princely resolution I must confess) to certain of her Counsellors, that albeit they might object against her, Ho●●in● p● 112● that the state of her kingdom, the dignity thereof, and her Crown imperial, could not be honourably maintained and furnished, without the possessions aforesaid; yet she set more by the salvation of her soul, than she did by ten kingdoms. And whereas in the reign of King Edward the sixth, In Parl 〈◊〉 & 4 〈◊〉. c. l. 12. it was enacted, that all the books, called Antiphoners, Missales, Grailes, Portuassis, and Latin Primmers, used for service in the Church, in the time of Popery, should be clearly abolished; All images graven, painted, or carved, taken out of any Church or Chapel, with the foresaid books, should be defaced or openly burned. She being now more forward than wise to observe the rites and ceremonies of the Romanists, caused the like books and images to be bought, and brought again into all the Churches within her dominions. Holy water, Pax, and censers were commanded to be employed at the celebration of Masses, and Matins, Oil, Cream, and spital, used in the Administration of the Sacrament of Baptism. Altars furnished with pictures, costly coverings, and the Crucifix thereon solemnly placed: Unto whom Lights, Candles, and Tapers, were offered The restauration and dispose of these, as also of all other matters concerning the Church, she committed to the Pope, and Cardinal Poole his Legate, by whose authority and means by all probability, In Parl. An●. & 2. Phil. ●● Mar. cap 8. In Parl. ●●. Hen. 8. ●ap. ● all Statutes made in her father and brothers reign against the See of Rome, the Pope and his Supremacy were altogether repealed; and the six bloody Articles enacted by Henry the eighth tyrannically put in execution; by force of which (she being overswayed by the authority of Church men, for of herself she was of a more facile and better inclined disposition) so many, in less than four years' continuance, were consumed with fire, for the testimonial of their consciences in that case. ●eed. cap. 23. In the heat of whose flames were burned to ashes five Bishops, one and twenty Divines, eight Gentlemen, eighty four Artificers, one hundred husbandmen, servants and labourers, twenty six wives, twenty widows, nine Virgins, two boys, and two Infants, one of them whipped to death by Bonner, alias Savage, Bishop of London; and the other springing out of his mother's womb from the stake as she burned, was by the Sergeants thrown again into the fire. Sixty four more, in those furious times were persecuted for their profession and faith, whereof seven were whipped, sixteen perished in prison, and twelve buried in dunghills, many lay in captivity condemned; but were released, and saved by the auspicious entrance of peaceable Elizabeth, and many fled the Land in those days of distress, which by her upon their return home were honourably preferred, and provided for according to their worths. Queen Mary now dead, and Elizabeth of famous memory proclaimed Queen, possessed of her lawful inheritance, placed in her glorious Throne, and crowned with the imperial Diadem; presently after followed a Parliament, wherein the title of Supremacy, In Parl. An. 〈◊〉 c. ●. 2. & ●. and all ancient jurisdictions were again restored, all foreign power abolished; and for the more augmentation and maintenance of her State royal, it was ordained and established, that the first-fruits and Tenths of all Ecclesiastical livings, with the lands and Scites of Monasteries, given away by Queen Mary, should be united and annexed again to the Crown; that all Statutes should be repealed, which were enacted by the said Queen Marie, in favour of the Romish Religion, and that the book of Common Prayer, used in King Edward's time, for an uniform celebration of God's divine service in the English Churches, should be ratified and authorised again by this present Parliament. This Parliament ended upon the eight of May, upon the fourteenth day of the same month next following, being Whitsonday, divine Service was celebrated in the English tongue, whereby God's word might be heard in a perfect sound, and the prayers of the Congregation uttered with an understanding heart. Soon after in the same year certain Commissioners were appointed in several places, for the establishing of Religion throughout the whole Realm; then all the religious houses which were re-edified, erected, or restored by Queen Mary, as the Priory of Saint john's jerusalem; the Nuns and Brethren of Zion and Sheen, the black Friars in Smithfield, the Friars of Greenwich, with all other of the like foundation were utterly suppressed. All Roods and Images set up in Churches, whose sight had often captivated the senses of the zealous beholder, and heated the blind zeal of many poor ignorant people, were now themselves consumed in the fire, and with them (in some places) the copes, vestments, altarclothes, Amises, books, banners, and rood lo●●s, were like wise burned in the open streets. Upon the walls, pillars, and other places of all Churches, certain Inscriptions were cut, painted, or engraven, which being holden to be superstitious, were as then defaced, erazed, washed over, or obliterated: of which a few for example. This Inscription was usual to the picture of the blessed Trinity, represented by the Effigies of an old man, our Saviour in his bosom, and a Dove. Ave Pater, Rex Creator, Ave fili, lux Seruator. Ave pax & charitas. Ave simplex, Ave Trine, Ave regnans si●e si●e, una summa Trini●as. Under the picture of the blessed Trinity, ●● lib. Co● sometimes in the Abbey Church of Rufford in Nottinghamshire, as it is in the book of the said house. Sede Pater summa disponit secula cuncta: Patre D●o genitus create & regit omnia natu●. Omnia vi●ificat procedens Spiritus almus. Flamma, calor, pruna, tria sunt hec, res sed & unau Sic ab igne calor non dividitur neque fulgor. Ast his unitis unus subsi●lit & ignis. Sic Pater & natus & Spiritus sed Deus unus. Huic laude munus qui regnat trinus & unus. Huic laus et doxa nunc et per secula cuncta. Under the picture of Christ crucified. Nec Deus est nec Homo presens quam cerno figura, Et Deus est et Homo que signat sacra figura. Verus Homo verusque Deus tamen unus uterque. Probra crucis patitur, mortem su●it, et sepelitur Vivit, item crucis hic per signa triumphat ab host. Id notum nobis crucis huius litera reddit, Scilicet ipsius nota sunt c●ux et crucifixus: Hec et ego veneror Iesum'quoque semper adore. Again under the Crucifix. Quantum pro nobis Christus tulit ecce videmus Et tamen à lachrymis heu lumina sicca tenemus. Under the picture of Christ, usually in all Abbey Churches. Effigiem Christi dum transis semper honora▪ Non tamen effigiem sed quem designat adora; Nam Deus est quod imago docet, sed non Deus ipsa: Hanc videas, et ment colas quod cernis in illa. And this. Sum Rex cunctorum caro factus amore reorum. Ne desperetis venie dum tempus habetis. To the picture of Christ, speaking thus to man in the agony of his Passion. Aspice mortalis, fuit unquam pas●o talis? Peccatum sperne, pro quo mea vulnera cerne. Aspice qui transis, quia tu mihi causa doloris▪ And thus, exhorting man to amendment of life. Aspice Serve Deisic me posi●ere judei. Aspice devote, quoniam sic pendeo pro t●. Aspice mortalis, pro te datur hostia talis. In●roitum vite reddo tibi, red mihi te. In cruse sum pro te, qui peccas desine pro me. Desine, do veniam, dic culpam, corrige vitam. The Knight's Templars before they came to that house, now called the Temple, had an house in Holborn, which is now Southampton place, where in their Chapel was a representation of Christ's Sepulchre, with these verses brought from jerusalem. Vita mori voluit, et in hoc tumulo requievit, Mors quia vita fuit nostram victrix abolevit. Nam qui confregit nigra inferna ille subegit, Educen●o suos cuius Dux ipse cohortis. Tartarus inde gemit, et mors lugens spoliatur. Another Inscription upon the same. Hac sub clausura recubat Christi caro puro, Sub cura semper stat nostra figura. Est Deus hic tantus natus de Vigine quantus, Militie caput hic, mundi medicena iacet hic. Another. Sum Deus, ex quo carnem sumsi, sed sine nevo: ●lebs mea me ligno fixit pendente maligno; Aspice plasma tuum, qui transis ante sepulchrum. Qui triduo iacui cum pro te passus obivi. Quid pro me pateris, aut quae mihi grata rependis? Sum Deus et puluis, sed regnes si modo serves. Pro te passus, ita tu pro me prospera vita. Pro te plagatus pro me tu pelle reatus. Upon the picture of the holy Lamb. Mortuus et viws idem sum Pastor et agnus: Hic agnus mundum instaurat sanguine lapsum. Many were the Altars here in England consecrated to the blessed Virgin Mary, more than to Christ; m●ny the pictures and statues, many the Churches erected and dedicated to her holiness, and many were the exorbitant honours, due only to our blessed Saviour, attributed to her heavenly Deity: As did appear by Inscriptions numberless about her Altars. Of which some few. In celo lata, nos seruet Virgo beata, Sede locata pia; nostri memor esto Maria. Que super astra manet lapsorum vulnera sanet▪ Que celo floret, pro nobis omnibus oret. Sit nobis grata virgo super astra levata. Ora ment pia, pro nobis virgo Maria. Virgo Dei genetrix sit nobis auxiliatrix. Stella Maria maris, succurre pijssima nobis▪ Virgo Dei digna poscentibus esto benigna, Mater virtutis det nobis dona salutis. Liberet à pena nos celi porta serena. Virgo Maria tuos serva sine crimine servos. Virgins auxilium foveat nos nunc et in ewm. Virgo fecunda pia, tu nos à crimine munda. Nos benedic grata pia matter et inviolata. Nos iwet illud Ave per quam patet exitus a ve Virgo salutata iwet omnes prole beata Nos Gabriele nata saluet partu gravidata▪ Virgins' intacte cum veneris ante figuram Pretereundo cave ne sileatur Ave. Sol penetrate vitrum, penetratur nec violatur, Sic Virgo peperit, nec violata fuit. Hac non vade via nisi dicas Ave Maria: Semper sit sine ve qui mihi dicit Aue. juxta aram ●●. virgins in Fano Arenae pataviis. O Regina lucis almae syderum, Intacta parens, puerpera virgo, Salutisque nostre digna propago. Parce iam parce mitissima quaeso, Hanc animam Christo redde benigna Et miserere canentis Osanna. Her salutation. Virgo salutatur, verboque Dei gravidatur, Nec gravat intactum gremium verbum caro factum. Virgo parens humilisque Deo cara, sibi viles An●uem calcavit, que prima superbia stravit. The nativity of Christ. Virgo parit puerum, lumen de lumine verbum Est vox celestis, lux celica, stellaque testis. In the Churches of Corpus Christi most commonly these Inscriptions following. Hic est cibus qui plene re●icit non corpus sed animam, non ventr●m sed mentem, si quis ex hoc comederit, vivet in eternum. Panis mutatur specie remanente priore, Sed non est talis qualis sentitur in ore: Res occultatur, quare? nam si videatur, ● unc abhorreres & manducare timeres. Panis mutatur in carnem, sic operatur Christus ipse, verum sub pane latens caro, Verbum. To the portraitures of the sour Evangelists these. Mat. Ma● Luc. johannes. Per Euangelica dicta deleantur nostra delicta. Euangelicis armis muniat nos Conditor orbis▪ Euangelica lectio sit nobis salus & protecti●. Fo●s Euangelij repleat nos dogmate celi. Que ●eque naturas retinent nec utrique figuras, Sic act●s Christi describunt quatuor isti. Queque s●b obscuris de Christo dicta figuris His aperire datur, & in his os ipse notatur. About or near to the Altars consecrated to all Saints. De● veny munus nobis Rex trinus et unus. Virga virens Iesse nos verum ducat ad esse▪ S●●●obis portus ad vitam virginis ortus. Sumamus portum vite per virginis ortum▪ In vite portu saluemur virginis ortu. Ortus solamen det nobis virgins Amen. Nos ditet venia sanctissima Virgo Maria. Nos rege summe pater, nos integra protege Mater. Nos ope conforta celorum fulgida porta. Nos famulos serva genetrix à morte proterva. Nosiungat thronis veri thronus Salomonis: Ad fontem veny ducat nos dextra Marie. Ad celi decoranos transfer virgo decora. Impetret à genito nobis veniam pia Virgo. Turmis Angelicis societ nos conditor orbis. Ordo Phrophetarum minuat penas animarum. Cetus Apostolicus sit nobis semper amicus. Martyribus sisti facia●●os gratia Christi. Grex confessorum purget peccata reorum. Virginci flores nostros delete dolores. Nos reg●, nos muni Sanctis Deus omnibus uni. Indulgences and Pardons granted by the Bishop of Rome, to certain Churches and Altars, were likewise depensild upon the walls. In form as followeth. Alexander Episcopus Seruus seruorum Dei, universis Christi sidelibus presentibus & futuris salutem, & Apostolicam benedictionem. Lice● ad o●nes * . S. R. E. sideles muni●icenti● nostre dextram debeamus extendere debitricem, maxim tamen spiritualis gratie prerogativa nos decet illos at●ollere, & dignioribus beneficentie nostre favoribus ampliare, qui se nobis & S. R. F. feruentiori devotione exibent, & in fide stabiles, & in opere sideli●er ●ffi●aces. Sane igitur cupientes ut Ecclesia S. ja. C. preementioribus frequentetur ●o noribus, & ut Christi ●ideles eo libentius de●otionis causa conslu●nt ad e●●dem, manusque ad conseruationemeius dein prompti●s porrigentes adiutrices, quo ex inde dono celestis gratie conspexerint se ibidem uherius refertos; de omni potentis Dei miserecordia, & B B. Petri & Pauli Apostolorum eius autoritate con●isi, omnibus vere penitentibus & confes●is & contritis, qu● di● Ascensionis Domini nostri jesu Christi a vespera Vigilie ipsius v●que ad vesperam eiusdem diei dictam S. ja. C. Ecclesiam deuote visitaverint annuatim, et manus adeius conseruationem por●exerint adiutrices, plenam omnium suorum peccatorum absolutionem concedimus. Ins●per per septem dies dictum festum sequentes, et quolibet ipsorum dierum de iniunctis ipsorum peniten●ijs septimam partem miserecorditer in Domino relaxamus, presentibus perpetuis temporibus duraturis. Nulli ergo hominum liceat ●anc nostram concessionis et relaxationis paginam infringere, vel ei ausu temerario contraire. S● quis antem hoc attemptare presumpserit, indignationem omnipotentis Dei et B B. Petriet Pauli Apostolorum se incursurum noverit, atque in extremo indicio districti judicis ira crudeliter permulctari. Dat. R. apud S. P. Id. M. Pontisica●us nostri anno. Testes A. Episcopus. P. G. Episcopus. S. E. S. E●statij presbyter Cardinalis, etc. Against an Altar. Si quis Missam ad hoc Altare fieri curabit, plenariam peccatorum remissionem consequetur. Si vero pro defuncti alicuius anima ad idem Altare legatur Missa, statim in ipso actu et celebratione Misse anima defuncti ex purgatorio in celum ascendet et seruabitur. Nihil certius. Near to the place where relics were kept, such a like Inscription was either painted, insculpt, or written upon a table hanging upon some pillar or other of the Church. Hic sacra sanctarum si nomina reliquiarum Lector se●re velis docet hoc te charta fidelis. De Christi cuna, que virga refloruit una. Coelo manna datum, paranymphi manna beatum. Mensa gerens cenam, turbamque cibans duodenam. Claud●tur & cista chlamys inconsutilis ista. Sanguine baptist pariter locis omnibus iste Est sacer & magni sudaria continet agni. The relics kept in the Church being all thus reckoned, they were concluded much what after this manner. Horum reliquijs constat locus iste celebris Hinc & multorum possemus nomina, quorum Dicere si in tabula locus illis esset in ista; Nos meritis horum redeamus ad alta polorum. Inscriptions near and upon Bells. Bells in time of Popery were baptised, they were anointed, oleo chrismatis, they were exorcized; they were blessed by the Bishop: these and other ceremonies ended, it was verily believed that they had power to drive the devil out of the air, to make him quake and tremble, to make him at the sound thereof fly, Tanquam ante crucis vexillum: that they had power to calm storms and tempests, to make fair weather, to extinguish sudden fires, to recreate even the dead; and the like. And as you may read in the Roman Pontificals, they had the name of some Saint or other given 〈◊〉 them in their Baptism; I will bring in for example the Bells of the Parish Church of Winington in Bedfordshire, whose names are cast about the verge of every one in particular, with these rhyming Hexameters. Nomina Campanis hec indita sunt quoque nostris. 1. Hoc signum Petri pulsatur nomine Christi. 2. Nomen Magdalene Campana sonat melody. 3. Sit nomen Domini benedictum semper in ewm. 4. Musa Raphaelis sonat auribus Immanuelis. 5. Sum Rosa pulsata mundi que Maria vocata. Upon or within the steeple these verses following, or others to the same effect, were either engraven in brass, cut in the stone, or painted within, on the wall. En ego campana nunquam denuncio vana; Laudo Deum verum, plebem voco, congrego clerum. Defunctos plango, vivos voco, fulmina frango, Vox mea vox vite, voco vos ad sacra, venite. Sanctos collando, tonitrus fugo, funera claudo. Or these. Funera plango, fulgura frango, Sabbatha pango, Excito lentos, dissipo ventos, paco cruentoes. For the power of holy water sprinkled upon the people upon their entrance into the Church, these Inscriptions. Huius aque tactus depellet Demonis actus. Asperget vos Deus cum omnibus sanctis suis ad vitam eternam. Sex operantur aqua benedicta. Cor mundat, Accidiam fugat, venalia tollit, Auget ope●●, removetque hostem, phantasmata pellit. Organs, Pulpits, Portals, Crosses, Candlesticks, Roods, Crucifixes, and what else of that kind were likewise thus inscribed, all which with the rest were erazed, scraped, cut out, or taken away by the Commissioners, and instead of them certain sentences of the holy Scripture appointed to be painted or dispensild in every Church. Thus judicious Reader thou mayest by this Chapter understand, how, by God's divine providence, and the depth of state policy, first of all, the authority of the Pope here in England was abrogated, the Supremacy of the Church in our Kings invested Abbeys, and all other such like religious houses subverted, Superstition and Idolatry rooted out and suppressed, and how this kingdom, from all Papal infection cleared, and with the Sun shine of the Gospel enlightened, the true worship of the everliving God was established. Which only true worship that it may continue in our Church without Schisms, rents, and divisions, unto the end of the world, let us all with unanimous consent both of heart and voice, pray unto him who is Truth itself, and the Author of all unity, peace, and concord. Now gentle Reader give me leave to add unto this Chapter (howsoever thou wilt say (perhaps) it is too long already) the copy of the Kings Warrant to Commissioners, to take the surrender of Religious houses, as also a copy of an Information to Queen Elizabeth, of the frauds and corruption of such so employed by her Father; being in my judgement coincident with the Contents of the same. Thus the Warrant speaks. Henry, Ex 〈…〉. etc. To or trusty, etc. Forasmoche as we understand that the Monastery of ...... is at this present in such state, as the same is neither used to the honour of God, nor to the benefit of our common wealth; we let you wit that therefore being minded to take the same into our own hand for a better purpose; like as we doubt but the head of the same will be contented to make his surrender accordingly; we for the spesyall trust and confidence that we have in your fidelytye, wisdoms, and discretions, have, and by these presents do authorize, name, assign, and appoint you that immediately repairing to the said house, ye shall receyve of the said Head such a writing under the Covent seal, as to your discretions shall seem requisite, meet, and convenient, for the due surrender to our use of the same; and thereupon take possession thereof, and of all the goods and implements to be indifferently sold, either for ready money, or at days upon sufficient sureties, so that the same day pass not one year and a half. Ye shall deliver to the said Head and Brethren such part of the said money and goods, as ye by your discretions shall think meet and convenyente for their dispeche. And further to see them have convenyente pensyons by ywr wisdoms assigned accordingly. Which done, and moreover seeing the rightful and due debts there paid and satisfied, aswell of the revenues as of the said stuff, as to reason and good conscience appertaineth, and your charges reasonably allowed; ye shall proceed to the dissolutyon of the said howl; and further in our name take possession of the same to be kept to our use and profit. Ye shall furthermore bring and convaye to our Tower of London after your said discressyons all the rest of the said money, plate, juelles, and ornaments that in any wise shall come to your hands by mean of the premises or of any part thereof. straitly charging and commanding all Mai●es, Sheriffs, Bailiffs, Constables, and all other our officers, ministers, and subjects, to whom in this case it shall appertain, that unto you, and every of you, in execution hereof they be helping, aiding, favoringe, and assisting, as they will answer unto us to the contrary at their uttermost perrilles. Yeven, etc. An Information made to Queen Elizabeth by ...... of the several abuses and frauds done unto the State general, and Crown by the corruption of such as have been employed by her Father upon the suppression of the Abbeys, and Continuance of the same. Part of the corrupt, deceitful, fraudulent, and unrighteous dealing of many Subjects of this Realm at and since the visitation and suppression of Abbeys, which with all the rest God by his grace hath made me hate and refuse, and also detest and resist in otheres to the utmost of my small power, being contrary to this commandment of the second Table, Thou shal● not ●●eale: whereby the possessiones, revenues, and treasure of the Crown have been unmeasurably robbed and diminished, to the great offence of God, and slander of the Gospel, and to the no small impovereshing and weakening of the Imperial Crown, and utter undoing of a number of your Majesty's poor Tenants and Subjects, and so to the great slaundere of your Majesty, and withdrawinge of their hearts from you, whose Act it is told them to be, and so to them it seemeth, because some of your seals be at all or most part of them, and the confirmation of your head officers at the rest: and to the uttere spoiling and undoing (before God and good men) of a number of learned people and exelente wits who understanding that many before them had been thereby greatly enriched and advanced; and that the gap thereunto as unto a virtue was made wide open for all without any punishment, but rather commendations, were and ●re still the easilier overcome by temptation of the wisdom of Satane, the world, and the flesh, to seek and labour to become rich by like wicked ways; of whom as the number is now of late years increased, so also deceive they more subtly and detestably, and in more things than ever before. For redress whereof, and of a nombere of other cunning and cleanly Thefts and decepts which I know and can in time remember and discover, beside the multetude out of my compass said by common brute to be in other callings. There must be pennede (by some people learnede in the Law that be known to hate all kinds of unrighteousness) some strong Act or Acts (to pass by Parliament, and afterwards to be roundly executed) with great penalties, forfeitures, and ponyshments, to reach unto lands, goods, and body, as the greatness or the smallness of the case shall require, without the which God will be yet more offended, the Gospel more slandered, the Crown more impovereshed and weakened, your people more undone, your Majesty more slandered, your people's hearts more drawn from you, the learned people and exelente wits of your people more spoilt, and many other particular evils will grow thereby, besides God's great strokes: which at length will come without repentance and amendment: Whereas if reformation be had, God willbe therein pleased, the Gospelle commended, the Crown enriched, your people profited, there loves towards you increased; the learned and exelente wits enforced from deceit, to seek preferment and wealth by godly and honest means; and many other things will grow thereby, besides God's good blessing which your Majesty shall be sure to have for it. Deceitful and unrighteous dealings, viz. at and upon the visitation and suppression of Abbeys. Where the Images of gold and silver, etc. with the costly Shrines, Tabernacles, Alteres, and Roodloftes, and the precious Jewels, rich Stones, and pearls, etc. belonging to the same, and the pixes, phallaces, Patenes, Basines, Ewers, candlesticks, Crewets', chalices, Sensors, and multitudes of other rich vessels of gold and silver, etc. And the costly Altar clothes, curtenes, copes, vestments, Aulbes, Tunicles, and other rich ornaments, and the fine linen, jet, marble, precious wood, brass, iron, lead, bells, stone, etc. and the household plate, household stuff, and furniture of household, and the Leases and chattalles, and the horses, oxen, kine, sheep, and other cattle, and the superfluous houses and buildings, and multitudes of other things that belonged to Abbeys, etc. were worth a million of gold. The salles of the part whereof were so cunningly made, and the preservation of the rest was such that your Majesty's Father, and the Crown of England had in comparison but mean portiones of the same, of which much was unpaid by ill dealing in many year's after. For the finding out of which, and punishing the great decept and fraud, there was not then, nether hath there been at any time since, for the like evils afterwards also committed to this day any good order or diligent labour taken, but let pass, as though to find out and punish such wickedness were no profit to the Prince and Crown, or good service to God. All which have been the easilier let slip, because perhaps some of them that should have punished under the Prince might also be partly guilty, and so, Ca●●●ce: Cathee. Item, where diveres of the Visitores and Suppressores had afterwards yearly allowance of Fees, annueties, corodies, etc. granted by the Abbeys, etc. to themselves, their servaunts and friends, was it likely that they came by them without fraud. Item, the most part of the Evedences of Abbeys and Nunneries were pilfered away, sold and lost, as herein following under the title of your Majesty's time more plainly appeareth. Item, Mannores, Lands and T●nements, and other hereditaments were oft sold at under yearly Rents, by many subtle deceits and frawdes. Item, many Lands and Tenements, etc. were sometime sold with thapportenances at the old yearly Rents: but where the woods were unvalued (as oft they were) the same went from the King without recompen●●. Item, Mannores, Lands, and Tenements, etc. sold to diverse, and after the woods were felled and sold, and the Rents enhanced, or for great fines leased out for many years, than the same Mannores, lands, etc. were returned to the king in exchange for other lands that had plenty of woods, and were unenhauncede, and unleased in all or in part, or the Leases were ne'er expired. Item, much Lands and Tenements, and many great woods, and other hereditaments were then sold away, where the money for the same by deceitful defrawde was not paid in many years after the due days of payment. So likewise in the time of the reign of King Edward the sixth, your Majesty's Brother, many things were done amiss, though not so many and so great as befoar. Exchanges more were then in King Henry's time, and almost as bad, whereof the Rents of many of them must needs decay in a great part when that Leases shall end that were made by the Exchang●r●s, or when their Bonds made to warrant those Rents shall either be lost, or not extended. Much Lands, etc. were sold at under values by great decepte of many. And in the short time of the Reign of Queen Marry your Majesty's Sister, many great gifts, Sales, and Exchanges were made, wherein was great deceit and loss to the Prince and Crown In your Majesty's time and before, all or the greatest part of all the Evidences of the Lands, possessions and hereditaments of all the Abbeys, etc. have by little and little by fraudulent means been so pilfered, and sold away and so drawn into many private men's hands, that there is almost none of them left to your Majesty's use; so that your Majesty hath nothing to maintain your title if need so require, but only the long possession, and your own Records made since suppression, whereof a number of them be gone. This Informer, (a man in authority, as appears by the sequel, of whose name I am ignorant) proceeds further in the rehearsal of many more deceits, frawdes, and corruptions, used by diverse of the Officers of those days, only for their own lucre and advauncement, which are too many here to set down; I will end this Chapter with the conclusion of his arguments. When I speak (saith he) write, or work against thes, and multitudes of like things, what ado there is on every side, and what outcries their i● against me, and what inward hatred is borne me, which sometime brek●s foarth, and shows itself, by their sour looks, bittere speeches, and taunt and by their liftings at me, and paying me home one way or other when they can themselves, or when others can for them, your Majesty wo●● wondere if you knew; And the more because some of them bear great show and name of good men and Gospelers: But alas piteous ones God amend them and us all; That we together that profess the Gospel may study and strive not only to love and do what he commands, and to hate and resist what he forbids; But also those of us that be in authoress to bring all others there unto by great entreaty and good rewards, if that will serve, if not by rough threats, and sharp strokes, as he hath appointed for the bringing home unto himself of every creature. CHAP. XVI. The time of the institution of Religious Orders. Their seu●rall names and Authors, and the infinite increase of their Fraternities and Sisterhoods. THe Popes of Rome challenging a succession from Saint Peter, 〈…〉. Op●● Cro●●g. pag. 100L. and seeking to imitate the Hebrews, began to institute Ostiaries, Acolites, Exorcists, Readers, Subdeacons, and Deacons. The Office of the Ostiarle was to open and shut the Church doors, Os●●ati●s. to look to the decent keeping of the Church▪ and the holy ornaments laid up in the Vestry; which is now the charge of the Vergers (as I take it) in Cathedral Churches. Acolites, or Acoluthites, Acolites, or 〈◊〉. Vid●s●s ●●mina Angel●●● 〈◊〉 S. were to follow and serve the Bishop or chief Priest, to provide and kindle the lights and lamps of the Church▪ and to register the names of such as were catechised. Exorcists had the power given them to expel unclean spirits; exorcists. and by fasting and prayer, to free such persons as were so possessed. Readers, Readers quos Pastores à pasco nominatos putat Am ... osius, matutine tempore Prophetarum Apostolorumque scripta legebant, ac populum divinis lectionibus quasi pascebant. Which Saint Ambrose supposeth to be called Pastors, ●phes. 4. ●●. by the Apostle Paul: did read the writings of the Prophets and Apostles, at the time of morning prayer, and did feed, as it were, the people with such divine lessons. The office of the Subdeacons was to set and give out the Psalms in solemn tunes, Subdeacons'. to receive the oblations of the faithful, to write the lives and Agons of the Martyrs, and to declare, or make more plain unto the people the Epistles of the Apostles. Deacons had the charge to relieve widows and orphans, Deacons. and other poor faithful people; and to distribute unto them the alms which devout Christians had given to that intent. They were also allowed to preach the Gospel, Summa Angel. li●ra D. to interpret the Scriptures, and appointed to adorn the sacred Altars, and help the Priest in divine Service (a place officiated now by our Parish Clerks) these were chosen to be men full of religion, integrity of life, faithfulness and bounty, after the example of the Churhes of jerusalem and Antioch, priest's. who were called Clerks; some of these were made by the imposition of hands Priests, others Deacons: to the end the Bishop of Rome might employ them to instruct the Christians which then increased, and were so many, as he could not alone execute the charge. To these Priests he gave the chief care of souls, to the end that administering the Sacraments to the people of God, they might with the Bishop attend prayer and preaching. Op●●e● in loco ●ad. Presbyterorum vero munus erat baptisare, Episcopis adesse consilijs, orationibus esse intentos, frangere panem in commemorationem Christi, annunciando mortem eius, orare super infirmos, ungentes eos oloo in nomine Domini. The office indeed of Priests was to baptise; to be assistant to the Bishops in Council, to be attended and earnest in prayer, to break the bread of life in remembrance of Christ; preaching or declaring his death and passion: to visit and pray for the sick, giving them extreme Unction in the name of the Lord. The Author of the book called, S●●lla Clericorum. And Presbyter, saith one, dicitur quasi praebensiter; as showing the way of salvation to the ignorant people. They were likewise, saith the same Author, called Sacerdotes, men consecrated to God in respect of their sacred orders, and pious employments: which by him is thus deciphered. Quinque enim sunt dignitates Sacerdotum prae ceteris. Primo dicitur sacerdos quasi sacris dotatus, scilicet sacris ordinibus, quia ipse est in summo gradu, qui est Sacerdotum. Secundò, Sacerdos quasi sacris is ded●tus, id est sacramentis; ad sacrisicanda sacramenta; nam ipse sacri●ic●● sacrosanctum corpus Domini cum verbis, signis, prodigijs, & caetera sacramenta. Tertiò, dicitur Sacerdos quasidans sacra, dat enim Baptismum, confessionem, poenitentiam, indulgentiam, Eucharistiam, benedictionem, & extremam unctionem. Quartò dicitur Sacerdos, quasi sacra docens: docet enim verba sancti Euangelij, & articulos rectae fidei. Quintò, dicitur Sacerdos, quasi sacer dux, quasi ducatum praebens, & iter populo ad regna coelorum, verbo sanae doctrinae, et vitae bono exemplo. Whereupon this Distich was compiled: Sacris dotatus, et sacris deditus, atque Sacra docens, sacra dans, et dux sacer esto Sacerdos. Upon the division of Provinces into Parishes (of which hereafter) and building of Churches (which work was effected with cheerful devotion) the fittest men out of this holiest order, were chosen and appointed to consecrate the divine Miestries of the Church. To such, or such particular congregations as were committed to their charge, and of whose souls they had the cure. And such Deacons, which as Parish Clerks, did help the Priests in the execution of their sacred office; did most commonly after a short time, enter into the order of Priesthood, and took upon them the cure of souls, and the benefit of a fat Parsonage, if they could procure it; in which promotion, if this or that Deacon carried himself proudly, or any way's no● to the contentment of his Parishioners: such was the common saying, Proverbium. The Priest forgets that e'er he was a Clerk. These Priests were called Secular, and such as led a Monastical life Regular. And so Canons were both secular and regular. Canons' The opinions of the first institutions of Canons are very diverse; some refer the beginning of a canonical life to Urbin the first, a Roman Bishop, who lived about the year of Grace 230. Others, and namely Possidomus, make Saint Augustine the chief Author of this institution, who when he had gathered together a company of godly men, who lived religiously, far from the noise and trouble of the multitude, being made a Bishop, he built a Monastery for Clerks and Priests within his palace, with whom he might live in common. Lib. d● pracipuis vib●● Rom. 〈…〉. Onufrius Panuinus writes, that Pope Gelasius the first, about the year 493. placed the regular Canons of Saint Augustine at Latran in Rome; Pope Boniface in the year 1298. placed there Canons secular; Gregory the twelfth restored the regular Calistus the third brought in secular Canons again; and Pope Paul, the second of that name, dispossessed them, and restored the regular. They were wont to sleep upon mattresses, and had blankets of wool, they fasted much, used great silence, and lived in common, having nothing proper to themselves: they used exercises two hours in the day, and at the end of the year they made their procession. They did not admit any one to the habit until he were seventeen years old; and they gave themselves to study and preaching. The rule of these Canons (confirmed by many Popes) consisted chiefly upon three points, to have nothing of their own, to be chaste, and to keep their cloisters. Which rule is deciphered in the old cloister of the Monastery of Saint john Lateran, in rhyming verses, now hardly to be read, thus Canonicam formam sumentes discite normam, Quam promisistis hoc claustrum quando petistis, Discite sic esse tria vobis adesse necesse; Nil proprium, morum castum portando pudorem, Claustri structura sit vobis docta figura: Vt sic clarescant anime, moresque nitescant Et stabiliantur animo qui canonicantur. Vt coniunguntur lapidesque sic poliuntur. Thus regular in holiness of good life, In the Ploughman's tale. and also in learning, both Priests and Canons were of ancient times, but how irregular afterwards, let Chaucer tell you. Popes, Bishops, and Cardinals, Canons, Parsons, and Vicar In God's service I trow been falls, That Sacraments sellen here, And been as proud as Lucifere. Each man look whether that I lie, Who so speaketh against her power It shall be holden heresy. In another place. And all such other counterfaitours Canons, Canons, and such disguised, Been God's enemies and traitors, His true religion han foul despised. As God's goodness no man tell might, Write, ne speak, ne think in thought, So her falsehood and her unright May no man tell that ever God wrought▪ And thus. They usen whoredom and harlottrie, Covetise, pomp, and pride, Sloth, wrath, and eke envy, And sewen sin by every side, Alas where think such to abide, How will they accounts yield: From high God they mow 'em not hide, Such willers wit is not worth a nelde. Passus 14. Ex Mss. in bib. Cot. Piers the Ploughman thus blanklie speaks of their pride. Sir john and Sir jeffery hath a girdle of silver, A Baselard or a ballocke knife, with buttons overgilt, And a Portus that should be his plow. Placebo ●o sing, Had he never service to save silver thereto, seith it with idle will. And hereupon he exhorts lay-men not to be so liberal in bestowing their goods upon the Clergy. Thus. Alas ye lewd men much less ye on Pryests, And a thing that wickedly is won, and with false sleights Would never wit of witty God, but wicked men it had, The which are Pryests imperfect, and preachers after s●●uer. That with guile is gotten, ungraciously is spended; Executours and sodemes, samoners and their lemen: So harlots and hoores are holpen with such goods, And gods folks for default thereof, forfaren and spill. These Canons had many cloisters here in England, great lands and revenues, and were wondrous rich, the first canon Regular in this kingdom was one Norman, whom Matilda wife to King Henry the first preferred to the government of her Priory, called Christ-church, now the Duke's place within Aldgate London. There are four rules, or religious Orders, that is to say, of S. Basill, S. Augustine, S. Benet, and S. Francis, under which all other orders are comprehended and governed. Of which my old Author Robert Longland, siue johannes Maluerne in the vision of Piers Ploughman gives a touch: where he speaks of Pardons and Pope's Bulls, on this manner. At the dreadful doom when the dead shall arise Pas●us ●. And comen all to fore Crist, accounts for to give How thou leadest thy life here, and his laws keepest And how thou didst day by day the doom will rehearse. A poke full of Pardons there ne provincial letters, Though ye be founden in the fraternity of the iiii. orders, And have indulgence an C. fold, but if Dowel ye help, I beset your patents and your Pardons at a pies heel. And thus the same Author in another place, speaking of the pilgrimage to our Lady's Shrine at Walsingham. Hermit's an heap with hooked staffs, Wenten to Walsingham, and her wenches after, Great loubies and long, that loath were to swink Clothed 'em in copes, to be known from other, And shopen him hermit's, her ease to have. I found there Freres, all the four orders, preached to the people for profit of themselves, Glossed the Gospel as hem good liked, For covetous of Copes construe it as they would. So Chaucer in his prologues and in the Character of the Friar mentions four Orders. A Frere there was a wanton and a merry, A Limy●our, a full solemn man: In all the Orders four is none that can So much of dalliance and fair language. But to return to the first of the four orders, The 〈…〉 which is that of S. Basill, (howsoever as I conceive the order of Saint Dominicke was accounted one of the four here in England) this Basill surnamed the Great, for his great learning, lived about the year of Grace 300. he was a Priest in Caes●●a, the chief City of Cappadocia where he was borne, and whereof afterwards he was chosen B●shop. He was the Author of building of Monasteries, whereas many might live together, for before his time the Monks dwelled in caves and cells alone, in deserts and solitary places, from the which he drew them into Coenobies or Covents: and instituted of discipline, by the which they should no more wander, but be always bound by one form of Religion. These Monasteries were schools, in the which the arts, and Philosophy, together with Divinity, true Religion and piety were taught, to the end there might be learned and fit men always ready to govern the Church; it is said that he built so great and spacious a Monastery in Armenia, as it contained above 3000 Monks; and in the end reduced all the religious men of the East to a good form of life. He died in the year 379, full of years as of virtues, when Damasus the first of that name held the See of Rome, and the Emperor Valens an Ari●n governed the East▪ This Emperor was determined to have dispossessed him of his Bishopric, as he had done others, but hearing him preach, and speaking with him at Cappadocia, he abstained from expelling him his seat; to which effect P. Opmer. thus. Basilius tantae doctrinae ac sanctitatis suit, 〈…〉 316. ut et Valens abstinueri● ab expellendo eum sede, cum reversus Cappadociameum concionantem audijsset, atque venisset cum illo in colloquium. It is holden that this Basill was the first which caused Monks to make a vow, after a years probation, to live in their Monasteries until death, to promise full obedience to their superiors, and not to contradict their ordinances, and moreover to vow continency and poverty. This order wheresoever they live, labour with their hands in imitation of the perfect Monks of Egypt: and what they get with their labour, they bring in common, retaining nothing to themselves. This order of this holy man doth flourish at this day in Italy, especially in the dominions of Venice, although all the Monasteries there which are of this order, do acknowledge the Abbey of Grottaferata, twelve miles distant from Rome for their mother. I do not find that any of this rule lived ever here in England: which makes me believe that this was none of the four Orders before specified. The order of S. Augustine. The next Monastic Order confirmed by the Church of Rome, was that of the Doctor of all Doctors, namely, Saint Augustine; He was borne in the Castle of Tegast in Carthage, about the year of our redemption 358. his Father's name was Patricius, his Mother's Monica, by whose entreaties, mingled with tears, and the learned Sermons of Saint Ambrose, he was drawn from the errors of the Manachies'; from Saint Ambrose as then Bishop of Milan in Italy, he returned into his own country, where he obtained of the Bishop of Hippo (whereof he was afterwards Bishop himself) a garden without the Town, causing a Monastery to be built there, in which he lived of the labour of his hands in all integrity, according to the institution of the Primitive Church. He died of a fever at Hippo▪ when he had sitten forty years in his Bishopric, being seventy and six years of age, on the fifth of the Kalends of September, leaving to posterity, two hundred and thirty books of his own writing. This order multiplied greatly throughout the whole Christian world, howsoever branched into many several orders, differing both in habit and exercises, as also in rule and precepts of life. An Epitaph to the memory of Saint Augustine which I found in the book of Rufford Abbey. Omnis plorat homo mox matris ut exit ab aluo, Et merito, quoniam ve●it in vallem lachrimosam. Solum nascentem risisse ferunt Zoroastrem, Ergo monstrosum crede risum liquet istum; Primus enim rerum fuit inventor magicarum. Hoc Augustinus testatur vir preciosus. Vir doctus, vir magnisicus, vir quippe beatus. The order of S. Benet. About some forty years after the death of Saint Augustine, Saint Benedict, vulgarly called Benet, appeared to the world, who is accounted the Patriarch and Father of all the Monks of Europe. He was borne in Vmbria, a region in Italy, of the noble family of the Regards, his Father's name was Proper, his Mothers Abundantia, he was sent to Rome at the age of ten years to learn the liberal Arts, but being weary of the tumults and war during the reign of justinian the Emperor, he went from thence into a desert near unto Sublacke, a Town some forty miles from Rome; where he continued the space of three years or thereabouts: doing very austere penance unknown to any save one Monk called Roman; but being afterwards discovered by certain Shepherds, the people (by reason of the great ●ame of his integrity and holiness of life) flocked from all parts to see him; who had such force to persuade them to abandon the world, as in a short time they built twelve Monasteries, and having given to every our of them a good Superior or Abbot, desiring solitariness, he retired himself with a good number of his best disciples, to the mount Cassin, near to the Town of old called Cassina. Where having ruined all the idolatrous Temples, and broken down their Images; he built him a Monastery, which he dedicated to Saint john the Baptist, with a Chapel to Saint Martin. Drawing all the Monks, dispersed in Italy, into one society and company, to whom he gave a certain rule in writing, by the which they and their successors should govern themselves, according as Saint Basill had done before him; and withal bound them to three several vows, Chastity, Poverty, and Obedience to their superiors, which decree was ratified by the Church of Rome for an evangelical law. This congregation of the Benedictines grew by little and little to be so great throughout all Christendom, as is almost incredible. Nulla Monasteria nisi Bene●dictina erat apud Anglos ab aetate Edgari usque ad regnum Gulielmi primi. There was no Monasteries, saith a late Writer, amongst the English from the time of King Edgar, till the reign of William the Conqueror, but Benedictines. This order, saith the same Author, came first into England with Austin the Monk, Bishop of Canterbury. He the said Saint Benet, died about the year of our Lord five hundred and eighteen, and was buried in his own Oratory consecrated to Saint john: where as before was wont to be the Altar of Apollo. He lived 63. years. Saint Francis was borne in the Town of Assile in the Duchy of Spoletum in Italy; The order of S Francis. in his young years he dealt in the trade of Merchandise, but by reason of a great sickness, at the age of two and twenty years, he contemned all worldly dealings, and gave himself wholly to heavenly meditations; he put a shirt of hair upon his bare skin, and a sack upon it, girding himself with a cord, Opmer. opus Cron●g, ad a●. 12●●. going also without hose or shoes, Et victus ostiatim emendicans, begging from door to door; so as the fame of him being spread over neighbour countries, many drawn by his holiness abandoned the world, and became his disciples, making profession of poverty, but yet to labour and take pains for a poor living. For these he built an Abbey in the Town where he was borne, and wrote a rule, as well for those which were united unto him, as for such as should come after him, which was approved and confirmed with many Indulgences, Privileges, Graces, and Pardons, by Pope Innocent the third, and Honorius that succeeded him; After the confirmation whereof, he ordained that his Friars should be called, Fratres minores, or Minorite Friars, to witness their greater humility. One Adam Sousbout a german Divine, Opmer. opus Cron●g. ad ann 1225. Ann. 1227. upon his entrance into this order, writes thus to his Father at Delphos. quam sit vita brevis, quam sit via lubrica, quamque Mors incerta: bonis quae praemia, quaeque parata Sint tormenta malis, horum meditatio nostra est, Quod facimus, quod firmamus, quod et esse perenne Optamus testamentum, Saluete, valete, Care pater, cari Fratres, caraeque Sorores. 〈…〉 ca 34. This Scraphicall Saint Francis died the fourth of October, 1226. and was canonised by Pope Gregory the ninth, ann. 1276. Ann. 1224. About two years before the death of Saint Francis, these Friar's Minorites came into England, Et benign a Rege Henrico tertio sunt suscepti, & Cantuar, collocati fuerunt: They were graciously received of Henry the third, and placed in Canterbury. And afterwards, anno 1269, one of the Ancestors of Sir Dudley Dig, commonly called Digges, Emit Insulam vocatam Bynnewyght in Cantuar. et locum Porte super stonestreete ad opus Fratrum Minorum, ●●land Comment. et tempore oportuno transtulit Fratres ad illam, bought an Island in Canterbury called Bynnewyght, and the place of a gate over Stone-streete for the use of the Friar's Minorites, to which he translated them in convenient time. 〈◊〉. The Friar's Minors (saith Stow, first arrived in England at Dover, nine in number, five of them remained at Canterbury, and did there build the first Covent of Friar's Minors that ever was in England; the other four came to London, and lodged at the preaching Friars the space of fifteen days, and then hired an house in Cornhill of john Traners, one of the Sheriffs, they bui●●ded there little cells, wherein they inhabited, the devotion of the Citizens toward them, and also the multitude of Friars so increased, that they were removed by the Citizens to a place in S. Nicholas Shambles, which john Iwyn Citizen and Mercer of London, appropriated unto the Communality of the City, to the use of the said Friars, and became himself a lay Brother. The order of S. 〈◊〉. Contemporarie with Saint Francis was Saint Dominicke, a Spaniard, borne in a Town called Calogora, in the Diocese of Osma. His father was named Felix, and his Meder johane, saith an old Agon: from Calogora he came into Gascoigne, where he continued ten years preaching, and drawing Christian Princes into arms against the Albigeois, certain Heretics, Qui damnato matrimonio vagos suadebant corcubitus; atque ●sum carnium prohibebant. Who condemned Matrimony persuaded licentious copulations, and forbade the eating of flesh, whose errors he repressed by his Sermons From thence he went to Rome to the Council of Lateran, under Innocent the third, where he obtained licence of the said Pope▪ to put himself under what rule he should like best▪ that was allowed by the Church: whereupon he made choice of that of Saint Antony, with sixteen of his disciples, and having made certain constitutions, it was confirmed by Honorius the third; about the year of our Lord, 1206. Then going to Tholouse he exhorted his Friars, and sent them to preach, two and two together, persuading them to be preachers both in deed and name; These Friar's Preachers came first into England in the year 1221. where they had loving entertainment and houses built. Of which my old Author. 〈◊〉. of Gloucester. Then deide saint Hugh an half yer and no more That was Bishop of Lincoln, and there after the fyrst yer The order of Frere prechours began, that ●as never saint Domnyk hit began, in the year of gease iwis M. C. C. no more forsooth hit ys. Of the gluttony and drunkenness of this order which so far declined, like others, from the first institution; one of their own side thus writ. Sanctus Dominicus sit nobis semper ami●us, Cuicanimus nostro iugiter praeconia ros●ro. De cordis venis siccatis ante lagenis. Ergo was laudes si tu nos pangere gauds, Tempore Paschali, fac ne potu puteali Conveniat uti: quod si sit, undique muti Semper erant Fratres, qui non curant nisi ventres. All things degenerate in time, and stray in a manner from the right course; for example, the order of Saint Benet which had flourished a long space with great reputation of holiness, di●●ered so much from the first institution of their Founder, that neither the decrees and authority of holy Father's general and provincial Counsels could reform or draw them to their first principles, until the sanctity of one Odo, or Otho, Abbot of Clu●●● Burgundy, and one of Saint Benet's order, revived in a manner from 〈◊〉 to life this Monastical profession, forcing them to observe▪ and observing himself from point to point all that was practised in the time of S. Benedict. So as many of their Abbots which were drawn by his good example, reform also their Abbeys, not only in France, but as well in Sp●●ne, Germany, Italy, and England; and for that this reformation 〈◊〉 his first beginning at Cluni; the union of so many Abbeys was called the congregation of Cluni, and every year, by the Pope's permission and authority, all the Abbots of this congregation met at a certain place, and they called it the general Chapter, whereas they treated of the order and life of Monks, putting out, and punishing such as had offended. This Odo lived in the year of our Lord, 913. It was no long time after, ere that these Benedictines fell again to their old vomit, Ciste●ci●n Monk. their great wealth having made them, proud, idle, luxurious, careless of God's house; and in most or all of their actions, extremely vicious. Whereupon one Robert Abbot of Molesme a Town in Burgundy, perceiving that the Benedictines Monks of his own house (as of all other Monasteries) had almost quite left and forsaken the ancient rule and discipline that Benet had given them; he left his own house, taking with him one a●d twenty of the honestest Monks he could find, to a solitary stupendious, and never inhabited place, called Cisteux, or Cistercium, near to vergres, in the said Duchy of Burgundy, where he erected a new Abbey for his new companions, whom he called Cistercians, of the place where the Abbey was situated. The liberties, immunities, and privileges of this Order was generally confirmed by Alexander the fourth, Bishop of Rome, circa An 1258. Bulla Pape Alexandri quarti de Confirmatione omnium libertatum, immunitatum, privilegiorum, etc. ordinis Cisterciensis. Alexander Episcopus seruus seruorum Dei. In lib. Si●. 〈…〉 Dilectis filijs Abbati Cistercij, eiusque coahbitibus et conventibus universis Cisterciensis ordinis. Salutem et Apostolicam benedictionem. Solet annuere sedes Apostolica pijs votis, et honestis p●tentium precibus favorem benevolum impertiri. Ea propter dilecti in Domino filij, vestris iustis postulationibus grato concurrentes assensis, omnes libertates et immunitates à predecessoribus nostris Romanis Pontificibus, sive per privilegia seu alias Indulgentias ordini vestro concessas; nec non libertates et exemptiones secularium exactionum à Re●ibus et principibus, vel aliis Christian● sidelibus rationabiliter vobis indultas, auctoritate Apostolica confirmamus, et presentis scripti patrocinio communuimus. Nulli ergo omnino hominum liceat hanc paginam nostre confirmationis infringere, vel ei ausu temerario contra●re. Si quis autem hoc attemptare presumpserit, indignationem omnipotentis Dei, et beatorum Petriet Pauli Apostolorum eius se noverit incursurum. Dat. Lateran. X. Kal. Martij. Pontificatus, nostri Anno secundo. 〈…〉. M ss. in bib. Co●. This Cistercian Brotherhood was first established here in England by one Walter Espeke, who founded the first Abbey of the said Order at Rivaux, or Rival in Yorkshire, about the year 1131. according to this old Distich, sometimes depicted upon the wall at the entrance into the said Abbey. Anglia Millesimo centes. Anno quoque et uno. Christi et tricesimo, micuit Cistercius Ordo. Some fifteen years after this foundation, and about the year 1098. S. Bernard surnamed the Mellifluous, a man nobly descended, borne at the Castle of Fountenay in Burgundy, with thirty of his companions, amongst which three were his own brethren, became religious men in this Monastery. This Bernard in short time became very famous, as well for his learning (of which his divine writings full of sweetness bear witness) as for the holiness of his life, in regard of which he was sent by his superior to lay the foundation of that great and famous Abbey of Clarevaux, or Claravallensis, near to the river Aulbe, about Lang●es; which Abbey a Nobleman of the country had then lately built; and thus began the Monks of the Order of Saint Bernard, ternar▪ li●● Monkey. which is all one with the Cistercian Monks, saving a little difference in the habit, both of them observing the rule of Saint Benet. This good man Saint Benet came to the Abbey of Cisteux, when he was eighteen years old, at the age of 25 he was consecrated Abbot of Claravall: Opus Cron. pag. 371 ad An. 11●8. Et divino magis instinctu, quam humana industria legem Domini didicit, quam tanta doctrinae munificentia, et eloquij suavitat● enarravit, ut communi Doctorum consersu Mellistui Doctoris cognomen sit adeptus, saith Opmer. The Archbishoprickes of Genua and Milan he refused, and only contented himself with the government of this Abbey of Claravall, in the which he continued 38. years. He died the fifth of November, about the year of Grace, 1160. and was buried in his own Monastery, when he had lived, 63, years. He built the Monastery of Saint Vincent and Anastasius in Rome, to the government of which he preferred one Peter Bernard, his Scholar, who was afterward Pope of Rome, by the name of Eugenius the th●rd. In his time by himself and his means one hundred and six Abbeys of this Order were built and reestablished; upon the forefront or some other places within these Abbeys, this sentence is most commonly depensild, graven, or painted; taken out of Saint Bernard. Bonum est nos hic esse, quia homo vivit puriùs, cadit rariùs, ●urgit v●lociùs, incedit cautiùs, quiescit securiùs, moritur felic●ùs, purgatur 〈◊〉, & praemiatur copiosius. Amongst many Epitaphs made to the immortal memory of this Mellifluons Doctor, these following may suffice. Ecce latet clare vallis clarissimus Abbess; Qui summis summus, qui sibi parvus erat; Relligionis apex, lux mundi, laus Monachorum, Vox verbi, pacis sanctio, iuris amor. Instructus, velox, sublimis, pauper, abunda●s, Artibus, ingenio, sanguine, veste, bonis. Laudis eget titulo, cuius laus non sit ad omnes; Cuius honour, cuius crescere fama fuit. Nunc vero quem plangit adhuc quem predicat orbis, Si laudare velim, laus mea laude caret. Dura, malum, cunctos, tulit, horruit, edi●icauit, Vana, Deum, requiem, sprevit amavit, habet. Another alluding to the name of Claravall. Sunt clare valles, sed claris vallibus Abbess; Clarior, hijs, clarum nomen habere d●dit. Clarus avis, clarus meritis, et clarus honore, Clarier eloquio, Relligione magis. Mors est clara, cinis clarus, clarumque sepulchrum, Clarior exulta● spiritus ante Deum. Another upon his own name. Arden's Bernardus, aut arden's, aut bona nardus, jure vocatur, propter quod nunc celebratur. Arden's feruore; vita sublimis; odour Nardus; que vere virtutis signa fuere. Iste fuit per quem patuit doctrina sophy Preco Dei, Doctor fidei, Cytarista Marie. It is said by one, 〈…〉 S. B●rn. that approaching near to his end, he spoke thus to his brethren: Tria vobis obseruanda relinquo, que in stadio presentis vite quo cucurrimemini me pro viribus observasse. Nemini scandalum facere volui & si aliquando accidit sedavi ut potui. Minus semper sensui meo quam alterius credidi. Lesus de ledente nunquam vindict in expetij. Three things I require you to keep and observe, which I remember to have kept to my power, as long as I have been in this present life. I have not willed to slander any person, and if any have fallen, I have hid it as much as I might. I have ever less trusted to my own wit and understanding, then to any others. If I were at any time hurt, harmed, or annoyed, I never craved vengeance of the party which so wronged me. Which is thus more succinctly set down by another, who hath written the life of the said Bernard. Beati Bernardi metricum Testamentum Et primo sui Prioris interrogatio. Que vite forma, qui mores, que sacta norma Quid d●ceat quid non, instrue sancte pater. Respunsio ipsius Bernardi. Que ●eci, prim●, v●bis facienda relinquo Nulium ●u●au●, discords pacificavi, Lefus ●ustinui, nec mihi complacui. Celesti● Monks. Within one hundred years after the first spreading abroad of these Cistercian and Bernardin Monks; the Benedictines wanted another reformation▪ which was attempted by Peter, one of the same Order, surnamed acheron, of a Mountain so called; at the foot of which he lived in a cave for the space of three years, doing daily penance. Upon this mountain he built a little Church, which he called of the holy Ghost; be ware always a almain of Iron upon his bare flesh, upon it a shirt of hair, being in continual prayer, and reforming the rule of Saint Benet, which was then much degenerated. He obtained of the Pope a confirmation of his rule, upon which he celebrated the first general Chapter of his Order. After which in the seventy ninth year of his age, he was chosen Pope, about the year of our redemption, 1●94. by the name of Celestin the fifth, where upon this reformed order were called Celestins: the number of which increased so fast, that he himself consecraced for them fix and ●hirtie cloisters in Italy, wherein were six hundred Monks; amongst others this was one of Celestin the Pope's caveats for his new reformadoes. Tunc Celestinus cris si celestia mediteris. If heavenly things thou'lt meditate, Then shalt thou live in heavenly state. Their first coming into England was much what about the year 1414. The sanctity of the Francischan Minorite Friars grown cold, one Ber●ard of Sienna, a gentleman of a noble extraction, moved with an holy and 〈◊〉 devotion, laboured much for the reformation of that Order, which 〈◊〉 some assistants effected, taking away the abuses which were crept 〈◊〉 causing the Friars to live in common, and to have nothing proper to 〈◊〉, following simply the institution of their father Saint Francis 〈◊〉 called Observant Minorite Friars, because they were obseruan 〈…〉 S. Francisci & propterea meliores: more observant to keep the 〈◊〉 and orders of Saint Francis, and therefore the better. This Order 〈…〉 the year of jubilee, 1400. or thereabouts: it was first confirmed by 〈◊〉 Cou●●ell of C●●s●●nce▪ afterwards by Eugenins the fourth, and other 〈…〉 the fourth brought them into England, and Henry the seventh auhmented their numbers: in whose time they had six famous Cloisters here in this kingdom. Many other reformations have been● 〈◊〉 time to time of the Franciscans, as by the Minims, Reco●lects, Pen 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 rises, Capuchins, etc. and by many others; which happened sinced 〈◊〉 lution here in England, or much what thereabouts. One Norbert Archbishop of Magdebourgh, leaving the world, retired himself with certain companions into a certain place called 〈…〉 of which this order took denomination, where he squared 〈…〉 himself, his fellows and successors to observe, much what after the order of Saint Augustine; which was approved and confirmed by Calixtus the second. Honorius the second made them regular Charions. Their Abbots were perpetual, and ever consecrated by Bishops. They had power to confer their lesser Orders to their Monks, and to bless all th● ornaments of the Church, and to do all other ceremonies, but where as consecration is required in the blessing; yet they might celebrate solemn and 〈◊〉 Mass, with the mitre, crosier staff, cap, and other ornaments, which belong to the Episcopal order and dignity. The first institution of this order was about the year 1120. their first house here in England was at Newhouse in Lincolnshire. These Votaries pretend to have had their first institution at mount Carmel in Syria, where Elias and other heretofore lived solitarily, and that the place being inhabited by many Hermit's; Almericke Bishop of 〈◊〉 drew them together, living dispersed about the mountain, and 〈…〉 them a Monastery in that mount near unto a fountain. They say a fethcer one Albert Patriarch of jerusalem, a very famous man, set downea rule from the life of Elias, out of a certain Greek book of the institution of the first Monk, and from the rule of Saint Basill the Great, giving it to keep to one Brocard, who was Prior of Mount Carmell, and to his Hermits, which rule of Albert they vowed to observe, which was afterwards confirmed by Pope Honorius the third. They affirm that the Virgin Mary appeared unto one of their order, and presented unto him a * Scapularie, saying, Receive, my beloved, this Scapularie which I give unto thy order, in sign of my fellowship. Whereupon they usurp the title of 〈◊〉 tres Ordinis beatae Mariae Virginis de monte Carmelo: Friars of the Order of the blessed Virgin Mary of mount Carmell. Their first apparition 〈◊〉 the world was about the year 1170. Their entrance into England, and seating themselves at Newenden in Kent, of which hereafter, was about the midst of the reign of King Henry the third. These, like as other Orders, have been diverse times reform, ever as they did degenerate from their primitive sincerity: at this day they are called Carmes discalced, or bare footed Friars, by a certain constitution confirmed by the apostolic authority, in a general Chapter held at Alcara de Henares, in the year of our redemption, 1581. There were likewise Carmelin or Carnie 〈◊〉 Nuns here in England. john Bale who writ of the writers and the best learned men of great Britain, writ also a large Treatise of this Order of Carmes, or Carmelites: whose antiquity, institution, and progress he sets down in one of 〈…〉 sages, as followeth. De Antiquitate Fratrum Carmelitarum. A Manusc●●pt 〈…〉. Tanta est Carmeli Fratrum de monte vetustas, Quim ment●m superet cunctorum pene virorum: Namque per H●liam datur Ordo fuisse Prophetam, Hie primo inceptus sacro quoque iure statutus: Qui postquam curru raptus fuit in Paradisum Flammato, successit et vates Heliseus; Condita quinque virum ter claustra fuere per illum; Quem post affirmant jonam fuisse Prophetam. Cui successerunt Abdias, atque Micheas, Et plerique alij, quos non memorare necesse est. Tempore non Christi Montem Baptista johannes. Carmeli Andreas et Ap●stolus incoluerunt, Nathaniel, joseph Vir Virginis atque Marie, Sanctus Iheronimus, et quidam nomine dictus Nilas, Marcellus quorum Pauli fuit alter, Petri Discipulus fuit alter deinde beati. Tunc in honore pia fuit Ara sancta Marie Monte in Carmeli, prenescentum que virorum Tunc in Jerusalem Claustrum fuit aurea porta Quondam nempe loco qui vulgo sertur ab omni, Ac in monte Zion claustrum primo Muli●rum, Multe denote quod percoluere Sorores▪ Sincletica, Euprepia, Polycrasia, item Melania. Combustum primo verum fuit à Mahumeto, Postque per Eraclum destructum, post quoque Paulo Euersum, rursus Danorum et ..... Regio .... Per .... Karoli reparatum tempore magni. Ast ubi capta primo fuit Acon, in pede cuius Est mons Carmeli, Syriamque, Asyamque, coacti Linquere sunt Fratres; & in Europam Lodovici Translati Regis Francorum sunt ope sancti: Anglia bissenos illos tenuit tamen annos Qua Regione moram traxere ...... He speaks much in the honour of this religious Order, of which he was a member in the Monastery of the Carmes within the City of Norwich; and finds himself much aggrieved at a certain Lollard, as he calls him, and a Friar mendicant, who made an Oration and composed certain virulent metres against this and other of the Religious orders; which he caused to be spread abroad throughout the most part of England, in the year 1388. and here will it please you read these his cursing rhymes. Per decies binos Sathanas capiat jacobinos; Propter et errores jesu confunde Minores; Augustienses Pater inclite stern per enses; Et Carmelitas tanquam falsos Heremitas: Sunt confessores Dominorum seu Dominarum, Et seductores ipsarum sunt animarum. I●● is destr●ctis et ab hinc cum Demone Ductis, Fraus dolus ex: bunt, pax et bona vita redibunt▪ Hij non seribantur cum iustis; sed deleantur De libro vite, quibus dicat Deus. Ite. These Satanical strong lines (as the phrase is now) did at the first gre●●ly distaste my ●●●●end Author john Bale, being one of the Fraternity: Sed 〈…〉 deformitatem suam videbat, but afterwards when as he say his own deformity and blindness, exuebat habitum sise professionis, he put off the habit of his cloistered profession; he rooted out, erazed, and defaced the malevolent character of Antichrist (as he saith himself) and consequently embraced the reformed Religion; and writ many-most bitter Inuectives against all sorts of our English Votaries. This Bale flourished in the reign of King Henry the eighth, and was living in the second year of Edward the sixth, about which time he writ his Centuries. Thus much (which is more than I determined to have spoke) touching the order of the Carmes. The order of Grand Mont was instituted at Grand Mont in Limosin in France, The Order of 〈…〉 about the year of our redemption, one thousand seventy six, vn●der the rule of Saint Benedict, by Stephen a gentleman of Auvergne, who being sent by his father to Molon Bishop of Be●uent, to be instructed by him, he spent twelve years learning the institutions and rule of Saint Benedict. Going from thence, and having duly observed the lives of many Hermit's, and Monks, and seen what was worthy of imitation, in the end he se●●ed himself upon the top of an high hill in Limosin, being at that time thirty years old, whereas he built a little cottage. He prescribed a rule of Saint Benedict to his disciples, himself living with bread and water, and died being eighty years old. I find very few Covents of this religious Order here in England, one there was at Abberbury in Shropshire confirmed by the Bull of Gregory the ninth, Bishop of Rome: as followeth. Gregorius Episcopus Seruus sernorum Dei. Dilectis filijs Priori & Fratibus de Abberburi Grandimontensis ordinis Hereforde. Dioc. Salut. & Apostolicam benedictionem. justis petentium desiderijs dignum est nos facilem prebere consensum, et vota que a rationis tramite non discordant effectu prosequente complere. Ea propter dilecti in domino filij vestris iustis postularionibus grato concurrentes assensio, possessiones, redditus, & al●a bo● a vesira, si●cue ea omnia just & pacifice possidetis, vobis & per vos domui vestre auctoritate Apostolica confirmamus, & presentis scripti patrocinio communui●hus. Nulli ergo omnino hominum liceat hanc paginam nostre confirmation is infringere, vel ei ausu temerario contraire. Si quis autem hoc attemptare pres●mpserit, indignationem omnipotentis Dei, & beatorum Petri & Pauli Apostolorum eius, se noverit incursurum. Dat. Avagnie. Non. Febr. Pontificatus nostri. Anno Sexto. To speak nothing of their opinion (being altogether unprofitable) who 〈…〉, Saint Peter's disciple and Bishop of Rome, 〈…〉 or the 〈◊〉 of the holy Crosse. was the first founder of this order. It is received for more truth, that one Cyriacus Patriarch of jerusalem (who showed S. Helen (the mother of Great Constantine) where the Cross was whereon our blessed Saviour was crucified) was th● first that instituted this Order, in memorial of the invention of the Cross; and gave ord●● that these Friars should ever afterwards carry a Crosle in their hands: but by reason of 〈◊〉 his martyrdom, under the Apostata julian, and the cruel persecutions of the Christians, this order became almost quite extinguished, until Pope Innocent the third gave it new life: since which time it ha●h ever flourished here and beyond. Seas with some little reformation like the rest of its fellows This holy order came into England in the year of our salvation, 1244. Their first Cloister was at Colchester, their greatest Monastery was near unto the Tower hill London, as yet called by the name of Cruched Friars. They did not of late as the first institution, carry the Cross in their 〈◊〉, but ware a cross of red cloth or scarlet fixed to then habit on their breast. About the year 13●7 the order of the Trinitarian Friars came into England; Trinitarian 〈◊〉. an order whose chief charge was to go and gather money to redeem Christians that were captives under the ●●ranny of the 〈◊〉 and Infidels; whereupon they were called Monachi de Redemptio●e 〈…〉 rum, Monks of the redemption of captives. This order was instituted by a Friar, called john Matta, and Felix Anachorita, who lived a solitary life in France, and were warned in their sleep (as the tale goes) to repair to Rome to the Pope, and to seek for a place of him, to build them a cloister. Which they did, and their petition being to them granted, they laid the foundation of the Monastery now called Saint Thomas of the Mount, in mount Celia Rome; wherein friar john died, and was buried, as appears by an Arch or ancient Sepulchre of marble in the little Church of the said Church, on the which this Epitaph or Inscription is engraven. Anno Domini et incarnationis 1197. Pontificatus verò domini Innocentij Pape terij Anno primo 15 Kaldanuar. institutus est nutu Dei Ordo Sanctissimae Trinitatis. et captivorum à Fratre johanne, sub propria regula sibi ab Apostolica sede concessa; sepultus est idem Frater Iohannes in hoc loci. Ann. Dom. M. CC. XIII. Mense Decembris vicesimo primo. Yet for all this these Trinitarians say, that the holy and blessed Trinity, and not Friar john, neither any of the Saints, gave them this their rule and order, to which effect in all their Covents these Rhymes are painted or engraven. Hic est ordo ordinatus, Non à sancto fabricatus, Sed a solo summo Deo. This blessed Order first began By God, and not by Saint, nor man. Robertin 〈◊〉. For the foundation of these Friars, I will use the words of the famous Antiquary john Leyland in his Commentaries; who flourished in the reign of King Henry the eighth, Cui à Bibliothecis erat; who died in the reign of Edward the sixth of a frenzy, to the great grief of all such as then did, or ●ow do take delight in the abstruse study of reverend Antiquity. He lieth buried in Saint Michael's Church in Pater Noster Row, London. The Priory of Knasborough, saith he, is three quarters of a mile beneath Ma●ch Bridge, which goes over Nid, one Robert Flower, son of one Tork Flower, that had been twice Mayor of York, was the first beginner of this Priory: he had been a little while before a Monk in New minster Abbey in Morpeth, within the County of Northumberland, forsaking the lands and goods of his father, to whom he was heir and firstborn son, and desiring a solitary life as an Hermit, resorted to the Rocks by the river of Nid, and thither, upon opinion of his sanctity, others resorted; for whom and himself he built a little Monastery; got institution and confirmation of an Order about the year 1137 which after his own name he called Robertins. Howsoever his company of Friars were instituted of the order De redemptione captivorum, alias, S. Trinitatis. King john, as he saith, was of an ill will to this Robert Flower at the first, yet afterwards very beneficial both to him and his. Some of the Flowers lands at York, were given to this Priory, and the name of the Flowers of late days remained in that City. Many miracles, as it is said, were wrought at the Tomb in his own Priory, wherein he was interred. Eodem anno claru●t fama Roberti Heremitae apud Knaresburgh, cuius 〈◊〉 oleum medicinale fertur abundanter emisisse. In the same year the same of Robert the Hermit of Knarsborrow spread itself clearly abroad; whose Tomb, as the report went, cast forth abundantly medicinable oil, saith Mat. Paris the Monk of Saint Albon●, who lived in those days. This Order, as I take it, was abolished before the dissolution. These Friar's challenge and derive their first institution from Saint Antony, 〈…〉. who lived about the year of our redemption, 345. howsoever they obs●rae and follow the rule of Saint Augustine; but whosoever was their first Patron it skills not much. Upon this occasion following, they came first into England. Edmund, the son and heir of Richard Earl of Cornwall, who was second son to King john; being with his father in Germany, where beholding the relics, and other precious monuments of the ancient Emperors, he espied a box of Gold; by the Inscription whereof he perceived (as the opinion of men than gave) that therein was contained a portion of the blood of our blessed Saviour. He therefore being desirous to have some part thereof, by fair entreaty and money obtained his desire, and brought the Box over with him into England: bestowing a third part thereof in the Abbey of Hales; which his father had founded, and wherein his father and mother were both buried, thereby to enrich the said Monastery, and reserving the other two parts in his own custody, till at length moved upon such devotion as was then used, he founded an Abbey at Ashrugge in Hertfordshire, a little from his Manor of Berkamsted, in which he placed Monks of this order, Bonhommes, Good men: and assigned to them and their Abbey the other two parts of the said sacred blood. Whereupon followed great resort of people to those two places, (induced thereunto by a certain blind devotion) to the great emolument and profit of these Goodmen the religious Votaries. The superior of this Order was called a Rector, or a Father Guardian. Bethlemit Friars. About the year 1257. the Bethlemit Friars had their dwelling in Cambridge, who should be the first institutor I do not read; their rule and habit was much what like that of the Dominicans; saving that they wore a star in their breast wrought upon their habit, in memorial of the star which appeared at the time that our Saviour was borne in Bethlem. This Order was extinct before the suppression. This religious Order was first instituted in the year of our Lord God, 1080. upon this occasion (the story is frequent) a Doctor of Paris, famous both for his learning and godly life; being dead and carried to the Church to be buried, when as they sung over his body the lesson which begins, Respond mihi quot habes iniquitates, Answer me how many iniquities thou hast, the body, sitting up in the coffin, answered with a terrible voice, justo Dei iudicio accusatus sum: I am accused by the just judgement of God: at which voice all the company being much amazed, they deferred the interment until the next day; at which time upon the rehearsal of the same words, the body did rise in like manner, and said, justo Dei iudicio iudicatus sum, I am judged by the just judgement of God. The third day he raised himself up as before, saying, justo Dei iudicio condemnatus sum, I am condemned by the just judgement of God. Amongst many Doctors which assisted these Funerals, one Bruno, a Germane, borne at Colleyn, of a rich and noble family, canon of the Cathedral Church of Rheimes in Champagne, being strucken and fearfully affrighted at this strange and never-heard of spectacle, began to consider with himself, and to revolve and iterate very often these words following, Si iustus vix salvabitur, impius & peccator ubi erit: If such a pious man as he was in the opinion of the world, be damned by the just judgement of God (thinks he) what will become of me and many thousands more, far worse and more wicked in the eye of the world than this man was. Upon this deep consideration, Bruno departed from Paris, and took his journey together with six of his Scholars, to live solitarily in some wilderness; and not long after came to the Province of Dolphin in France, near to the City of Grenoble, where he obtained of Hugh Bishop of that City, a place to build him a Monastery, on the top of an high stupendious hill, called Carthusia, from whence the Order took the name. They gave themselves to silence, and reading, and separated themselves by little Cells one from another, lest they should interrupt one another's quiet. They spent some hours in the labour of their hands, and some in the writing of godly books, both to relieve their wants, and to do service to the Church of God. Many works of theirs are still extant; out of which, tending to mortification, the jesuit Parsons collected the Resolution. They did macerate their bodies by fasting and discipline, and in the end resolved to eat no flesh, during their lives. This donation of Bishop Hugh (who became himself one of their order) was confirmed by Hugh Bishop of Lions, and afterwards by Pope Vrban the second. The said Pope Vrban (as the story, which I have read, depicted round about the Cloister of the Carthusians at Paris, doth show) sent for the foresaid Bruno to Rome (whose disciple he had been) where he remained for a time, and did much help to pacify the troubles there at that time by his prayers; he parted from Rome, and taking his way by Calabria, he came into a desert, called the Tower in the Diocese of Squilace, where he stayed with his companions, making their residence in certain caves under the ground. The which when one Roger the Prince of that country understood, he went to visit this holy man Bruno, and gave to him and his society all that desert; whereas they built a Church, in the which Bruno remained alone, where his companions lived, and in that place he died, ann. 1102. and there was buried. Upon whose Sepulchre this Epitaph was ensculpted. Primus in hac, Christi fundator ovilis, Eremo Promerui fieri, qui tegor hoc lapide. Bruno mihi nomen, Genetrix Germania, meque Transtulit ad Calabros grata quies nemoris. Doctor eram, Preco Christi, virnotus in orbe: Desuper illud erat, gratia non meritum. Carnis vincla dies Octobris sexta resoluit. Ossa manent tumulo, spiritus astra petit. He was canonised in the year 1520. Priors of their grand Monastery at Carthusia from Bruno the first, Antiq de Paris liure ●●●und. till Bruno d' Affrinques, who governed that house, ann. 1611. have been forty and four. This order came into England about the year 1180. and at Witham in Somersetshire built their first cloister. Afterwards they came to London and had a fair sumptuous house near unto Smithfield London, which is now Suttons Hospital; another they had called Sein or Shene, in the county of Surrey, now best known by the name of Richmond. There were four Orders here in England of begging Friars, Begging F●ier● who did challenge for their Patrons S. Augustine, S. Francis, S. Dominicke, and Saint Basill, but in their discipline and rule of life, they came far short of their first Institutors, who both took pains with their hands as labourers, and as learned writers, as their works do testify; of all Orders these Mendicants have ever been most bitterly inveighed against by their own writers: as I shall show hereafter. Quidam nows ordo Fratrum Londini apparuit, Friars of the back. & incognitus. Papale tamen autenticum palam ostendens; ita ut tot ordinum confusio videretur. A certain new and unknown order of Friars appeared in London; showing openly the Pope's authentical Bull for their admission; so that then there seemed to be a confusion of so many Orders, In An 1297. Hen. 3.41. saith Paris. These were called Fratres de poenitentia jesu, or Fratres de Sacca: Friars of the repentance of jesus, or Friars of the Sack, for that they carried sacks, and for that they were clad in sackcloth. These had their first house a little without Aldersgate London; and obtained licence of King Henry the third in the fifth year of his reign, Stow Survey. to remove from thence unto any other place, and within some two years afterwards he gave to them the jews Synagogue in Colmanstreet ward, which was defaced by the Citizens of London, after they had slain seven hundred jews, and taken away all their goods. After which time Eleanor, wife to King Edward the first, took into her protection, and warranted unto the Prior and Brethren De poenitentia jesu Christi, of London, the said land in Colechurch street, in the Parish of Saint Olave in the old jury, and S. Margaret in Lothbury, by her granted, with consent of Stephen de Fulborne, under-warden of the Bridge-house, and other Brethren of that house, for threescore Marks of silver, which they had received of the said Prior and Brethren of Repentance, toward the building of the said Bridge. This Order of Friars gathered many good Scholars, and multiplied in number exceedingly, until by a general Council it was decreed, that there should no more Orders of begging Friars be permitted, but only the four Orders, and so from that time these Friars decreased and fell to nothing. There were also Nuns of this order, Nun's Sachettes. which were called Sachettes, whether they had any Covent in England or not, I do not know. But great S. Lewis King of France, being stirred up by Queen Blanch his mother, in the year of our salvation, Antiquitez. de Paris lib. 2. 1261. having given unto the Brethren of the Sack, or of the repentance of jesus Christ, a certain house upon the river of Seine, a little beneath S. Michael's bridge, in the Parish of Saint Andrew des Arts at Paris, as by his charter (which I have read) appears, gave also to the Nuns of the same order, another house to inhabit in the said Parish, where neither of the orders made there any long abode but were expelled in the time of the said King, leaving only the name of Sachettes unto the street. The order of S. john of jerusalem. About the year 1048. (the Saracens being masters of jerusalem, and of the holy Temple which they ruined) certain gentlemen and Italian Merchants used to frequent the ports and maritime towns of Syria and Egypt, who (for that they brought merchandise which was pleasing unto those countries) were well entertained, not only by the governor of the Town, but by the Calife of Egypt. These Christians going often to jerusalem to visit the holy places, and having no place of retreat within the city, they obtained leave to build a Church, a Palace, with certain Monasteries for the lodging of Pilgrims. But in the end they caused an Hospital to be built for the receiving of all sorts of Pilgrims, both sick, and whole, and in like manner a Church, which was dedicated to S. john Baptist. In the year 1099. the city of jerusalem being recovered against the impulsions of the Infidels by Godfrey of Bullein Duke of Lorraine, this order was instituted; Sandys Relation. the Kings of France were sovereigns of this order, who granted them diverse immunities. They bore five crosses gules, in form of that which is at this day called jerusalem cross, representing thereby the five wounds that violated the body of our Saviour. None were to be admitted if of a defamed life, or not of the Catholic religion. They were to be gentlemen of blood: and of sufficient means to maintain a port agreeable to that calling, without the exercise of mechanical sciences: as appears by these demands propounded by the Pater-Guardian upon their admission and the Knight's answers. Antiq. de Paris, lib. 2. Guard. Quid quaeris? Miles. Quaero effici Militem sanctissimi Sepulchri. Guard. Cuius co●ditionis es? Mil. Nobilis genere, Pare 〈…〉 bis, & Christianis ortus. Guard. Habes unde 〈…〉 litaris dignitatis conseruare possis absque mercibus et 〈…〉 Habeo Dei gratia. They took the Sacrament to hear every day 〈◊〉 if they might conveniently; if wars were commenced against the 〈◊〉 to serve there in person, or to lend other in their stead no 〈…〉 To oppugn the persecutors of the Church, to shun unjust wars, 〈◊〉 honest gain, and private duels. Lastly, to be reconcilers of dissensions, to advance the common good, to defend the widow and orphan, to 〈◊〉 from swearing, perjury, blasphemy, rapine, usury, sacrilege, murder, and drunkenness: to avoid suspected places, the company of 〈…〉; to live chastely, irreproveably, and in word and dead to 〈◊〉 the●selues worthy of such a dignity. This oath taken, the Pater 〈…〉 his hand upon his head, as he kneeled before the entrance 〈…〉 saying, Esto tu fidelis, strenuus bonus & robustus ●iles 〈…〉 Christi, & sanctissimi Sepulchri, quite cum ●lectis suis in 〈…〉 a cello● redignetur. Amen. Then he gave him a pair of spurs which he put on his heels, and after that a sword, being before h●llowed with this 〈◊〉 Exaudi quaesumus Domine Deus preces nostras, & 〈…〉, qua se ●●mulus tuus hic cingi desiderat, Maiestatis tuae dextera dig●●●● 〈◊〉 quatenus possit esse defensor Ecclesi●rum, vidu●runu, 〈…〉, que Deo servientium, contra Paganorum saevitiam, 〈…〉 sit terror atque formido praestans ei aequè persecutionis & 〈…〉 effectum. Per Dominum nostrum jesum Christum Amen. Then he 〈◊〉 him to use this sword in defence of the Church, and himself, and to the confusion of Infidels, by these words. Accipe N. sanctum gladium. I● nomine Patris, et Filij, et Spiritus s●ncti. Amen. Et ularis eo ad 〈◊〉 tuam, et sanctae Dei Ecclesiae, et ad confusionem inimicorum 〈…〉 sidei Christianae: et quantum humana imbecillitate poteri●, 〈…〉 laedas. Quod ipse praestare dignetur qui cum Patre et Sp●rita 〈…〉 per omnia secula seculorum. Amen. The sword being 〈◊〉 aga●●●● 〈◊〉 Knight was to gird himself there with: to whom the Pater Guardian 〈◊〉 spoke. Accingere N. gladio tuo super faemur inum potentiss me. 〈…〉 Domini nostri jesu Christi: Et attende quod sancti non in 〈…〉 sidem vicerunt regna. Then the Knight arising, and forthwith kneeling 〈◊〉 to the Sepulchre, inclining his head upon the same, he was citated 〈◊〉 by the said Pater-Guardian, by receiving three strokes with a sword 〈◊〉 shoulder, and by the saying of these words following thrice o●er. I go constituo et ordino te N. Militem sanctissimi Sepulchri Domini nostri jesu Christi. In nomine patris et filij et Spiritus sancti. Amen. I constitute and ordain thee N. a knight of the holy Sepulchre of our Lord jesus Christ, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the holy Ghost. Amen. Anno Dominii 1117. Gotfredus Aldemarus Alexandrinus, and Hugo de Planco de Paganis (Godfrey (aforesaid) Duke of Lorraine, and King of jerusalem being dead, and Baldwin then reigning) this order of Knighthood first began, and a seat was granted them in the Temple of jerusalem, whereupon, they were called Knights Templars, or Knights of the Temple. By entreaty of Stephen Patriarch of jerusalem, Pope Honorius brought in this order, and confirmed their society, giving them a white garment, whereunto Eugenius the third added a red cross on the breast. The charge of these Knights, was, to guide Travellers on the way of jerusalem, and to entertain strangers. Of the time when these, as also the other Knights, came first to have Hospitals and houses here in England, I do speak hereafter. Monks and Nuns Gilbertines. Bale. Cent. 1. In the year after Christ's Nativity, 1148. (contrary to justinian's constitutions, which forbade double Monasteries, that is to say, of men and women together) one Gilbert, Lord of Sempringham in Lincolnshire, whose father's name was joceline, a knight; this Gilbert was a man very deformed in his body, but very studious and learned. He went over into France, where by his study in the liberal Arts, he obtained both the name and degree of Master: and coming home, he instructed both the boys and girls of his own country in the same disciplines. Out of which number, when they came to maturity of years, he collected a company consisting of men and women, and gave them a rule to observe, which he had taken out of Saint Augustine, and Saint Benet's rules. Eugenius the third, Bishop of Rome (admiring much his devotion and forwadnesse, like as others did his holiness) confirmed this his religious order. Which so grew and increased, that himself laid the foundation of thirteen religious honeys of the same Order, 〈◊〉 Cent. 2. whereof the chiefest was at Sempringham, and whiles he lived (which was one hundred and six years) had in them seven hundred Gilbertin Brethren, and eleven hundred Sisters, parted one from another by walls you must think; of which, as also of the whole order, a scoffing Poet of those days thus versified: Nige●. Wircker in specule stultorum. translated by Bale in the Acts of English Votaries, out of Latin thus. The Monks sing the Mass, the Nuns sing the other, Thus doth the Sister take part with the Brother. Bodies, not voices, a wall doth dissever; Without devotion they sing both together. Again thus. What should I much prate; An order it is begun of late, Yet will I not let the matter so pass, The silly Brethren and Sisters, alas Can have no meeting but late in the dark, And this you know well is a heavy work. Again of these Friars and Nuns. Some barren are of these, some fruitful bee, Yet they by name of Virgins cover all: More fertile sure and better beareth she, Who blessed is once with croysier Pastoral: Now scarce of them is found one barren do, Till age debar, whether they will or no. The order of S. 〈◊〉 Brigide or Bridget that holy Queen of Sweden, in the year 1376 did institute the like order (as aforesaid) of Monks and Nuns, which was confirmed by Gregory the eleventh, in the first year of his Popedom. She obtained of the said Pope, that the Monasteries of her said order should be common as well for men as women: yet there should be such a separation by walls, as the one should have no means to come unto the other, but upon great necessity. She would also have but one Church for both sexes, and that the Monks as Ministers of sacred things should be below, and the Nuns above, to say their service and prayers; but the Lady Abbess should have power to command both: yet men should have charge of tha● which did belong to the Divine Service, and to the ornaments of the Church, and that there should be one amongst them that should be called Prior, or Confessor. She also ordained, that they should have lands and possessions whereon to live, but the superintendance to provide for all things that should be needful, for the one and the other, as well for victuals, as apparel, should belong unto the Abbess. That it should not be lawful for either men or women to go out of their Monastery, without great necessity, and then they should demand leave of the Abbess. They held the rule of S. Augustine, with certain Articles added by this famous Queen. Some are of opinion, that this form of Religion was first invented in Greece, but that the Fathers had ordained, that the men should remain separated from the women, lest they should give occasion of scandal: wherefore Saint Brigide desiring to revive this order, she found means how without any suspicion, the Church and house should be common to bo●h. She ordained that they should wear a russet habit, with a cloak of the same colour, with a red cross upon their breasts. She would have but sixty Nuns, and five and twenty Monks in every Monastery: that is to say, thirteen Priests, according to the number of the thirteen Apostles, comprehending Saint Paul. Then four Deacons; who might also be Priests, and represented the four Doctors of the Church: and eight Converts, who might always be ready to labour for the affairs of the house: so as the Friars and Nuns all together, made the number of the thirteen Apostles, and the seventy two Disciples of our Saviour: And to the end they might be distinguished one from another, the Priests carried a red Cross upon the left side of their cloak, under which cross they put a little piece of white cloth, as broad as a wafer, which they offered up in reverence of the holy Sacrament. And the four Deacons, for a difference from the Priests, carried a round wreath of white cloth, which signified (as they gave out) the sapience of the four Doctors, whom they represented, and upon it they put four little pieces of red, made like unto tongues, to show that the holy Ghost inflamed their tongues to deliver the sacred mysteries of Divinity. The Converts wore a white cross upon their cloaks, to show the innocence of their lives, upon which there were five pieces of red, in commemoration of the five wounds of our Saviour. At the dissolution there was a Covent of this Order, at Zion in Mid'e sex; now a mansion goodly fair house belonging to the right honourable the Earl of Northumberland. This holy Lady Brigid died at Rome, and her daughter Katherine, Princess of Nerice, caused the rule, after her death, to be confirmed by Po●e Vr●●● the fifth: She came to Rome at the age of two and forty, where she continued eight and twenty years, she was canonised in the year of Grace 1391. There was another S. Brigid of Ireland, far more ancient. It is said that the image of our Saviour spoke to this pious Queen of Sweden, as she was saying her orisons before the high Altar in the Church of Saint Paul in Via Ostiensi Rome: as appears by an inscription upon a table hanging in the same Church, which I have seen. As many orders, or near thereabouts, as were of Friars, so many were of Nuns here and beyond Seas, for men in the fervency of devotion did not precede the weaker sex of religious women. The strictest Order of Nuns is that of S. Clare; The poor Clares. A Lady who lived in the same time, and was borne in the same Town of Assile with S. Francis. Which Town to this day brags of the birth of two such worthy persons. These Clares observe the rule of their Patron S. Francis, and wear the like habit in colour. They are never rich, and therefore to this day wheresoever they do inhabit, they are called the poor Clares. This Saint Clare was the first Nun of Saint Francis Order, and her Mother and Sister undertook the same vow. Ex lib. Fratrum Manerum Lond. in bib. Cot. Sancta Clara que in vita & in morte mirabiliter miraculis claruit. Beata Agnes soror sancte Clare, & beata Ortulana matter eorundem fuere ordinis Franciscorum. Saint Clare, who both in life and death was wondrously famous by her miracles. S. Agnes her sister, and Ortulana her mother, were of the order of S. Francis. This S. Clare, (saith her Legend) touching the world was of rightworthy and honourable lineage: jacob. de Vora g●ne. and, as touching the spirit to the regard of the state of virtues, and holy manners towards God, of right noble reputation. Hermines. Anchorites. Having spoken already of such religious persons as I find to have lived here in England in Coenobies or Covents, at the time of the general dissolution: it remains now, to say somewhat of Hermits and Anchorites, who had at that time their solitaire little cells or cabins in diverse places of this kingdom, which carry still the name of Hermitages, in and about the country, and Anchor-holds, in Parish or Abbey Churches. They were called Hermit's, or Eremites, for that they lived solitarily in deserts and wildernesses; and Anchorites because they lived alone without all company; immured betwixt two walls, in the out side of some Abbey, or Parish-Church, in which, by their rule, they were to live, die, and to be buried. Whose exercise was fervent prayer, handy labour, digging and filling up again their graves, which were to be within their lodgings. Of the beginning and first Authors of the Hermit's life there is great question, which I leave unto the learned; and adhere to the common received opinion, which affirms that the times of persecution were the first cause of this kind of life. For when as in the time of Decius and Valerianus, Emperors, about two hundred fifty and two years after Christ, they prepared horrible torments against the Christians, many distrusting the weakness of the flesh, and searing to deny the name of God by their intolerable persecutions, thought it fittest to seek their safety by flight: Wherefore many leaving Towns, friend's, and all their wealth, retired themselves into deserts, and held themselves in solitary places and caves, where they bu●lt poor cottages. Yea many times they went wand'ring up and down in thick woods lest they should be taken. But when the furie of their t●ran●, ceased, they returned not unto the world, but lived voluntarily in deserts, so being accustomed to divine contemplation, and a quick kind of 〈◊〉, they continued in the course until death. Among the first which entered into this course of life, was Paul of Thebes, who lived in a cave at the foot of a rock; about the year of our redemption, 260. The second was Saint Antony of Egypt, who built himself a cottage upon the top of an high hill, where he died having lived one hundred and five years, in the year 34●● S. Jerome of Stridone in Dalmatia, that learned and religious Doct 〈◊〉 the like life in the deserts of Syria, not far from Jerusalem: In quo lo●o deserto se ieiunijs macerabat, plangebat, orabat, sludebat, atque, etiam ●●m mentabatur. In which uninhabited place, he macerated, or made lean, his body with fastings; he lamented and bewailed his sins, he p●ayed▪ he studied, and writ certain Comments upon the sacred Scriptures: Many other works he writ before his death, which happened about the year of our Lord, 388. But to come nearer home where the repute and godliness of these Hermit's or Anchorites (for both of them living from the company and conversation of men; were called sometimes by the name of Hermit's, and some other time of Anchorites) was likewise had in venerable regard for we read that when seven British Bishops, with other learned men of the Monas●●●●e of Bangor, were to meet Austin the first Archbishop of Canterbury, concerning certain points tending to the Catholic unity and concord, they came first (saith venerable Bede) to a certain holy and wise man, which lived thereabout an Anchorites life, to ask his counsel, whether they ought at Augustine's preaching and exhortation, to leave their traditions, or no: And we read, in the said Author, that Cuthbert Bishop of Durham (enforced thereto by the King) increasing in the merit of religious and holy devotion, came also to the secret silence of an Anchors life and contemplation: that by prayer he brought forth water out of a stony ground, and also received grain by the labour of his own hands, and that out of all season of sowing. And I have seen the Psalter translated out of Latin into English, by one Richard a religious Hermit, In the 〈◊〉 of 〈…〉 bra●e. the antiquity whereof may be gathered by the character of the English, of which I will give you an Essay, of certain parcels. We heryens ye God, 〈◊〉 Tuum. we knowlechen ye Lord: Awl ye * erye worschips ye everlasting father. Awl angels in heavens, and all ye pours in yiss world. Cherubin and Seraphin cryens by voice to ye unstynting. Benedictus. blessed be ye * Lord. Loverd God of Israel for he has visityd and maad buying of his pupil. My soul worschips ye Loverd, At gaisicat. and my ghost joyed in God my * Saviour. heel. for he looked ye meekness of his hand maiden. So for * henceforth. iken of yat blissefulle schall say me all generaciouns. For he has done to me great yingis yat * mighty. myrty is and his nome hely. Nunc dimittis. Loverd you leve now yi servaunt in pees, after yi word yat you hast said bifore, for now I am ripe to die. For mine * ●ies● eghen have seen yin owen son Christ, yat is yin owen he'll to men. Mat. cap 1 The Boc of ye generacoun of Ihu Crist sone of David, sone of Abraham, Abraham gendride Isaac, Isaac * forsooth. forsaye gendride jacob, jacob forsoye gendride judas, and his br●yeen. Ye dediss of ye Apostlis. Acts ● Theosile fyrst I maad a sermon of all yingis yat Ittu began to do, and to teach into ye dat of his assencioun, in which he commandide in ye hooli ghost to his Apostlis which he had thosen, to which he show▪ de himself alive after his passion by many argumenties, appearing to 'em fourti days. Rome 1. Paul ye servaunt of Ihu Crist cleped an Apostle de● romptyd into the Gospel of God, which he had * promised: behote tofore by h●●e Profetis in hooli scripture of his sone. Apocalipis. Apoc. 1. Apocalipis of Ihu Crist which God * ●aue: 3 as to him to maak open to his servauntiss which yingis hit behoveth. behovey to be maked soon, and he signyfyed sending by his Angel to his servaunt jon. Which bar witnessing to ye word of God. In the like language are all the Collects, Epistles and Gospels, for the whole year, much what as we have them in our Church, as also the Paternoster, and the Creed. All which by the Dialect, I guess to have been translated by this Hermit in the days of King Henry the second, comparing them with the English of that Pater Noster and the Creed, which Adrian the fourth Pope of Rome, an Englishman, the son of Robert Breakespeare, Stow. Annal. 〈◊〉. H. 2. of Abbot's Langley in Hertfortshire, sent to the said King Henry the second, as followeth. Pater Noster. Ure father in heaven rich, Thy nom be haliid everliche, Thou bring us to thy michilblisce, Thy will to wirche thu us wiss, Als hit is in henene ido, Ever in earth ben hit also, That hell bred yat laffyth ay, Thou send hious yis ilke day, Forgivous all yat we haveth dou. Als we forgiu such oder mon, He let ous fall in no founding, Ak scilde ous fro ye toul thing. Amen. I believe in God Fadir almighty shipper of heaven and earth, And in Jesus' Crist his owl thy son ure Loverd, That is ivange thurch the hooli Ghost, bore of Mary maiden, Tholede Pine undyr puonce Pilate, picked on rode ire, dead and yburiid. Licht into hell, the third de day fro death arose, Steich into heaven, sit on his Fadir riched hand God almighty. Then is cominde to dame the quikke and the d●de. I believe in ye hooli Ghost, Alle hooli Chirche, Moon of allehallwen forgivenis of sine, Fleiss uprising, Lit withuten end. Amen. This Hermit likewise translated all the Psalms of David with a gloss● or exposition in English upon every Pslame. blissful man yat which away read naught in council of wi●ked, and in ye way of sintull stud nought, and in ye chair of pe●yleus he nought sat. But in lagh or Loverdyr will of him and in his lagh he schall * yeuke day and * night. Selden tells us of a Psalter in that famous Bodleian Library in Oxford, with a metrical translation of the Psalms, the which, as h●e is persuaded by the character, was englished about the time of King Edward the second, where he gives us the first Psalm as a taste of the idiom or form of our speech in those days; which a wicked hand (saith he) by cutting the first Capital left a little imperfect. * Ely beerne that nought is 'gan In the red of wicked man, And in street of Sinful naught he stood ...... of Scorn ungode But in the lagh of Loverd his will be a●. And his lagh think he night and day. And all his lif swasal it be. As it fares be a tre, That stream of water set is ne'er, That gises his fruit in tim of year, And leaf of him to dreve naught shall, What swa he does sal soundfull al. Naught swa wicked men, naught swa, Bot a●s dust that wind the earth tas fra. And therefore wick in doom naught rise, Ne sinful in read of right wise. For Loverd of right wise wot the w●y And gate of wick forworth sal ay. Gloria Patri. Bliss to Fadir and to the Sun And to the he●y Ghost with them one, Als ●irst was is and ay sal be In world of werldes unto the three. And in the same place you may read a verse or two of the fifteenth Psalm, thus rimed. Loverd who it thy * Te●. T●ld who s●l won In the heli hill or who rest mun? He that in comes * spotless w●mles, And ever wickes rightwiseness. Here the more willingly (to use the words of the transcriber of these Psalms) I have inserted these parcels of the Psalter, that by this occasion my Reader might palliate his taste with an Essay of our Ancestors old English, as well in the curte composition of their prose, as in the nearness of their holy metres, which howsoever abounding with liberty, and the character of their times, yet have, I confess, my admiration. And (for a conclusion) we read in Henry Archdeacon of Huntingdon that a certain Anchorite, or quidam vir Dei, as he calls him, prophesied in King Etheldreds' days, that forsomuch as Englishm●n were given over to all drunkenness, treason, and carelessness of God's house, first by Danes then by Normans, and a third time by the Scots they should be overcome. Of which I speak elsewhere. 〈◊〉 Helen of ●●anchit●are Anchoreste. To this retired holy Order aforesaid, women were admitted as well as men. For I read in an old Lieger book that one I sold He●on widow (unlike in conversation to these Anchorites I have spoken of, or the Anchores●es in the Primitive times) made sure to King Henry the sixth, that she might be an Anchoress, or vowed recluse, in that part of the Abbey of Whally, anciently ordained for that purpose; which was granted and thus confirmed. Henricus Dei gra. Rex Angl. & Dominus Hibernie, omnibus ad quos presentes litere pe●uenuerint; In the ●●●ger book of 〈◊〉 Abbey of whaley in Lan●●r●●hire. Salutem. Sciatis quod de gratia nostra speciali concessimus, dilecte nobis isole de Heton de Com. Lanc. vidue. quod ipsa pro ter●●i●o v●te sue esse possit Anachorita in loco ad hoc ordinato, iuxta Ecclesiam Parochialem de whaley in dicto Com. Lanc. & quod ipsa talem sustentationem habere possit pro ut ibidem pertinet, de Abbate & conventu loci ciusdem. In cuius rei tetimonium has litter as nostras fieri fecimus patentes. Dat. suh sigilla nostra ducatus nostri Lanc, apud Manerium nostrum de Kenington. V● die julij, An. Regni quinto decimo. Per breve de privato Sigillo. But this religious Votaress took no great delight in her strait lodging, as appears by the story: for within a short time after, she being desirous of more liberty, broke out of her cage (as other such like holy Sisters had done before her) and flew abroad in the open world. Whereupon the Abbot and Covent of the said Monastery, made certificate following to the King. To the King our sovereign Lord, etc. Be hit remembered that the please and habitation of the said Recluse is within place hollowed, and ne'er to the gate of the said Monastre. And that the weemen that have been attending, and acquayntyd to the said Recluse have recourse dailly into the said monastre, for the liver of breed, ale, Kychin, and other things, for the sustentation of the said Recluses, according to the composition endentyd above rehearsed. The which is not according to be had within such religious plases. And how that dyvers that been Ancores and Recluses in the said please afore time contrary to their own oath and profession, have broken out of the said please wherein they were reclusyd, and departed therfrom without eny reconsilyatyon. And in especial how that now Isold of Heton that was last Reclused in the said please denomination and preferment of our sovereign. L. and King that now is, is broken out of the said please, and hath departed therfrom contrary to her own oath and profession, not willing nor intending to be restored again, and so living at her own liberte, and large by this two yer and more like as sche had never been professed. And that diverse of the wymen that have been servants there and attending to the Recluses afortym have been misgoverned and gotten with child within the said please hallowed to the great displeasance of hurt, and disclander of the Abbey aforeseyd, etc. Please hit your highness of your especial graze to grant to your orators, the Abbot and, etc. This Anchoress having taken upon her so strict a vow, and being thus loose in her life and conversation, Rob. Langland. Pass. 8. some may very well imagine that Nuns, which had more liberty allowed them by their rules, were far more licentious; and indeed the Author of Piers the Ploughman speaks (in the person of the Friar Wrath) somewhat reproachfully of his Aunt a Nun and an Abbess. As also of other like Votaresses and Votaries, which with his introduction followeth. I am wrath, quoth he, I was sometime a Frere, And the Covents gardener, for to graften imps, On Limitours, and Legisters, lesings I imped Till they bear leaves of smooth speech Lords to please; And sithen they blosomed abroad, in bour to hear shrift Now is fallen, thereof a fruit that folk han well liver Show her shrifts to hem than shriven hem to her persons And persons have perceived that Freres part with 'em. These possessors preach and deprave Freres And Freres findeth hem in default, as folk bear witness And when they preach the people in many places about I wrath walk with hom, and wish 'em of my books. Thus they speken of my spiritualty and despise each other, Till they be both beggars and by my spiritualty libben, Or else all rich and ●iden about, I Wrath, rest never That I ne most follow this wicked folk, for such is my grace. I have an Aunt to Nun, and an Abbes both, Her had leave swoon or swelled, than suffer any pain, I have been coke in her kitchen, and her Covent served Many months with hem, and with Monks both, I was the Priores potager, and other poor ladies, I made 'em iowts of jangling: That Dame jone was a bastard, And dame Clarence a knight's daughter, a cokolde was her Sire, And dame Pernel a Priest's file, Priores was she never, For she had child in cherry time, all our chapter hit wist, Of wicked words, I Wrath, her wortes made, Till thou liest, and thou liest lopen out at once, And either hit other under the cheek: Had they had knives, by Christ, either had killed other. Saint Gregory was a good Pope, and had good forewit That no Priores were Priest, for that he provided Let haply they had no grace to hold harlotry in, For they article of her tongues and must all secrets tell. Among Monks I might be, and many times yshamen For they be many fell frekes my feris to espy. Both Prior and Subprior and our Pater Abbas; And if I tell any tales they taken 'em togethers, And do me fast Fridays to bread and to water. I am challenged in chapter house as I a child were, And balaced on the bare arse. Thus have I spoken of all the religious Orders, which I find to have been cloistered here in England at the time of the dissolution of Religious houses, howsoever their number might be far more than I have spoken of. Vol. 1. pa● 236. For. I. Fox in his martyrologue alphabetically sets down a catalogue of an hundred and twelve several orders of Monks, Friars, and Nuns, here and beyond seas, whose rules were confirmed by several Popes; all branched from the four Primitive institutions of Basill, Augustine, Benet, and Francis. Of which increase, for a conclusion to this Chapter, as also to this discourse, one Lelius Capilupus, a Catholic Roman in his Anatomy of the Roman Clergy, hath formerly written in Latin verse, thus not long since Englished. But though I had an hundred tongues and more, I could not tell how many sorts there be, Nor show the names and orders which do flow From this waste Sea in their posterity. CHAP. XVII. Of the sundry ways and means by which Religious Votaries, and others of the Clergy, enriched themselves, and other Churches Of Pardons, Pilgrimages, and Romescot. AL● Churches are either Cathedral, Conuentuall, or Parochial. Cathedral, is that Church, where there is a Bishop seated, so called, à Cathedra, the chair or seat. Conuentuall, consisteth of regular Clerks, professing some order of Religion, or of Deane and Chapter, or other College of spiritual men. Parochial, is that which is instituted for the saying of Divine Service, and ministering the holy Sacraments to the people dwelling within a certain compass of ground near unto it. Of which more in the next Chapter. I will begin with Conuentuall Churches. As the number of Religious Orders increased, and as Religious houses were daily more and more replenished, insomuch that the donations of their Founders were not thought (by themselves) sufficient, they devised other means to increase their livelihood; and the better to maintain their high state and comportement; and one was, by the admittance of lay people into their Fraternities: the form whereof was after this manner following, as I have it out of the collections of Nicholas Charles Lancaster Herald, deceased. Frater johannes, A 〈…〉 Minister domus Sanct. Radegundis de Theldsord, Wigor. Dioc. ordinis Sanct. Trinitatis & redemptionis Captivorum, qui sunt incarcerati pro fide jesu Christi à Paganis. Dilecto nobis in Christo Willelmo Beyvill Salutem in Deo per quem omnium peccatorum plena fit remissio. Cum plurima privilegia nobis et ordini nostro gratiose fuerint ab artiquo concessa; et de novo per sanctissimum Papam Alexadrum sextum. Et nesetiam Minister predictus, & Conuentus eiusdem loci de nostra speciali gratia concedimus, ut post eorumdem decessum, et suarum literarum exhibitionem, in nostro Conuentuali Capitulo, cadem pro illis siet commendatio, que pro nobis ibidem fieri consuevit; & per presentes in nostram sanctam confraternitatem vos deuote admittimus. Dat. sub Sigillo nostre confraternitatis predicte. Ann. Dom. M. CCCCLXXXXIIII. In dorso. Auctoritate Dei Patris omnipotentis & beatorum Petriet Pauli Apostolorum eius▪ ac auctoritate mihi commissa, et tibi concessa. Ego absoluo te ab omnibus peccatis tuis mihi per te vere et contrite confessis; nec non de 〈◊〉 de quibus velles confiteri si tue occurrerent memorie; et concedo tibi plenariam absolutionem, et remissionem omnium peccatorum tuorum, in quantum claues Ecclesie se extundunt in hac parte. In nomine Patris, et Filij et Spiritus sancti. Amen. I find in the golden Register of Saint Alban (a Manuscript in Sir Robert Cottons Library) above two thousand men, women, and children, lay-people of the Nobility and Gentry of this kingdom, to have been thus admitted into that one Monastery: all of which gave either lands, goods, jewels, plate, copes, vestments, or some ornament or other to the Church and Covent. The religious Votaries likewise, either by themselves, or their friends, gave somewhat or other upon their first admittance into any of these Monasteries: of which I could give many examples, but in place take one for all, I● bib. Cot. which I have read in the Lieger book of Saint mary's the Nunnery at Clerkenwell. Where Sir William de Sancto Georgio, or Saint George knight (one of the Ancestors of Sir Richard, S. George Clarentieux now living) gives to the Prioress and her Sisters of the foresaid Saint mary's Clerkenwell; with Mabell his daughter, upon her admittance into their Nunnery, half a Verge of land in Kingston in Cambridgeshire. Test. Willelmo de Baus. Roberto de S. Georgio. Roberto de Hasselingtonfeld, etc. a deed sans date. And by another deed the said Sir William Saint George gives to the said Priory of Clerkenwell, for the soul's health of himself, his father, his mother, and his wife; and with Albreda his sister, who was to be a Nun of the said house, his land in Hasselingfeld, within the foresaid County of Cambridge, which Robert Russis held in pratis in pascuis, etc. Test. Eustac. de Bancis, Willelmo de Bancis, Roberto de Sancto Georgio, etc. And many others having large portions in their own possessions, out of zeal and devotion, would give all, with themselves, to some Cloister or other, and therein take upon them the habit of Religion. As many English do in these days upon their admission into religious Orders beyond Seas. They were wondrously enriched by the burials of great personages, for in regard of burial, Abbeys were most commonly preferred before other Churches whatsoever: and he that was buried therein in a Friar's habit, if you will believe it, never came into hell. Upon their visiting and confessing of the sick, they ever used some persuasive argument or other, that it would please the sick person to bestow somewhat more or less (according to his or her ability) towards the maintenance of their Fraternities, or the repairing of their Monasteries; and that he would bequeath his body to be interred in the Church of their Covent, with a promise that they would daily say prayers and make intercession for his soul. They got likewise by confessing such as were in perfect health, giving them absolution, and enjoining them penance, according as they received gratuities. Of all which, will it please you read these passages following, copied out of the Author of Piers Ploughman, and Geffrey Chaucer. And First Piers the Ploughman, Passus undecimus, speaking how Friars covet to bury men for their goods. Go confess to some Friar, and show him thy sins, For while Fortune is thy friend Friars will the love, And fetch the to their Fraternity, and for the beseech To her Prior Provincial, a Pardon to have; And pray for the pole by pole, if thou be pecuniosus. Sed pena pecuniaria non sufficit, pro spiritualibus delictis. I said I nolde Be buried at their house, but at my Parish Church: For I hard once, how conscience it told: That kind would men be buried where they were christened. Or where that he were Parishen that there he should be graven. And for I said thus to Friars, a foal they me helden, And loved me the less, for my lely speech. And yet I cried on my confessor that held himself cunning. That none would wed widows but for to wield her goods, Right so by the Road * wrought you never Where my body were buried, by so ye had my silver. I have much marvel of you, and so hath many other Why your Covent coveteth to confess and bury, Rather than to baptise Barns that be catechislinges. And Passus decimus tertius. Friars followed folk that were rich And folk that were poor at little price they set. And no cors in her kyrkeyard, nor kirk was buried, But quick he bequeatheth 'em aught, or quit part of his dets. The Friar, in Chaucer, persuading with the sick farmer, to make his confession to him, rather to his Parish Priest, having his hand upon his halfpenny, In the So●pners tale. makes this request to the bedrid man lying upon his couch. give me then of thy gold to make our cloister, * quoth. Quod he, for many a muscle and many an oyster, When other men have been full well at ease, Hath been our food; our cloister for to rease. And yet, God wot, unneath the fundament Performed is, ne of our pavement Is not a tile yet within our wones By God we owen forty pound for stones. The same Author in the Prologues to his Canterbury tales, and in the character of the Friar, thus speaks of the absolution and easy penance they gave to men in health, where they thought some commodity would thereby accrue to themselves and their Covent. Full sweetly heard he confession, And pleasant was his absolution. He was an easy man to give penance, There as he wist to have a good pitaunce, For unto a poor Order for to give, Is a sign that a man is well yshryve: For if he gave aught he durst make avaunt, He wist well that a man was repentant: For many a man is so hard of heart, That he may not weep although him smart: Therefore in stead of weeping and prayers, Men moat give silver to the poor friars. The Priests likewise in general as well of Cathedral, Parochial, as of these Conuentuall Churches got much by saying of Masses; Passus undecimus. as it is intimated to us by Ploughman in these few lines following. If pryestes were perfect they would no silver take For Masses, ne for Matins, ne her meats of usurers, Ne nether kirtle ne cote though they for cold should die. But that which brought most riches to all the foresaid Churches, was the Shrines, Images, and Relics, of this or that Saint, in this or that Church especially honoured and preserved; to the Visiters whereof (who with great cost and labour did undertake so holy and devout resolution) great Indulgences and Pardons were granted by several Popes (as will appear by the sequel) and so semblably to their sacred Altars and other holy places: and such like Indulgences and Pardons they were, as were anciently granted to the Churches in Rome; which will not seem impertinent (I hope) here to set down, as I have them out of an old book in broken English, which crept into the world in the minority of Printing, and is commonly called, The Customs of London. But, before I go any further, let me tell you, that Relics were ever holden in most reverend regard, amongst all sorts of people, insomuch that in the taking of any solemn oath, they used to lay their hand upon certain Relics, as they did upon the holy Evangelists; For I heard that King Henry the second being to clear himself of Archbishop Beckets' death, S. Danyel in vit. H. 2. at a general assembly holden within the City of Auranches, in the Church of the Apostle Saint Andrew, before the two Cardinals, Theodinus and Albertus, the Pope's Legates, and a great number of Bishops, and other people, made his purgation in receiving an oath upon the holy relics of the Saints; and upon the sacred Evangelists, that he neither willed, nor commanded the said Archbishop to be murdered. The hole Pardon of Rome granted by diverse Popes. Videses Onuphrium de septem santioribus urbis Romae Ecclesijs. In the cite of Rome been iiii chirches in which is Mass daily done, but there ben seven of the same privileged above all the other with great holiness and Pardon, as is here after shewed. The furst is called Saint Peter's Chirch th'apostle, and is set upon the fot of an hill, and men go upward thereunto a steyer of xxix steps high, and as oft as a man gooth up and down that steyer, he is relesid of the seventh part of penance enjoined and granted by Pope Alysander. Item, as ye come before the Chirch there the well sporingeth, so may ye see above the door an Image of our Lord, and between his feet standeth oon of the pence that God was sold for, and as oft as ye look upon that penny ye have xiiii C. yeries of Pardon. Item, in the same Chirche on the right side is a pilour that was sometime off Salamons' temple, at which pilour our Lord was wont to rest him when he preached to the people, at which pylour if there any be frentyk, or mad, or troubled with spyritts, they be delivered and made hole. And in that Chirge be xi altars, and at every altar is xlviii year of Pardon, and as many Lentes or Karynes: and seven of thoo altars been severally privelegyth with grace and Pardon. At the furst altar is the visage of our Lord; who looketh upon that hath seven. c. year of Pardon. Item, at the same altar is the spear that Crist was parced with, which was brought from Constantynenople, sent from the great Turk to Pope Innocent the Viii The second altar is of saint Andrew there ye have V. C. year of Pardon. The forth altar is of our Lady, there is Vii. C. year of Pardon. The v. altar is of Saint Leoo, there he received the absolution in his Mass fro hevyn, and there is Vii. C. year of Pardon. The vi altar of all Souls and there is V. C. year of Pardon: and every high fest an soul out of Purgatory. The seven altar is of Saint Simond and jude, there is Vi. C. year of Pardon. And before the Choir door stoned two yruen crosses, who kisseth thoo crosses hath V. C. year of Pardon. Item, upon our Lady day in Lente is hanged afore the choir a cloth that our Lady made herself, and it hangeth still till our Lady day assumption, and as many times as a man beholdith it he hath iiii C. year of Pardon. Alsoo as many times as a man goeth thorough the Croudes at Saint peter's Chirche he hath iiii c year of pardon. And as often as a man followeth the Sacrament to the sick bodies he hath xiiii c. year of Pardon. Also Pope Silvester granted to all thym that daily goeth to the Chirch of saint Peter the iii part of all his sins released, and all advowes and promise released, and all sins forgeten released and forgiven, except leing hands upon father and mother violently, and above this is granted xxviii c year of pardon, and the merytis of as many Lentis or Karyns. The knowledge of a karyn ye shall find in the end of this bo●ke. And in the fest of Saint Peter a M. year of pardon, and as many Karyns and the * third parte. threddendell of penance enjoined released. And from th'ascenscion day of our Lord into the assumption of our Lady ye have xiiii year of pardon and as many karyns, and foryefenes of the iii part of all Sins. And upon the one side of saint Peter's Chirch lieth a Chirchyard, and that is called Godys' field, and there be the buried poor Pylgryms and none other and it is the land that was bought with xxx pens that our Lord was sold fore, as oft as a man goeth upon that ground he hath xv c. year of Pardon. Item, in the Chirche of saint Poule without the walls ye have xlvii M. year of pardon. Item, in the day of his conversion i c year of pardon. Item, on Childermas day iii M. year of pardon. Item, on the * on the eight day. Vtas of saint Martin when the Chirche was holowyd xiiii M. year of pardon, and as many karyns and the third part of all sins released. Also who that visit the Chirche of saint Poule two sundays doth as much as he went to * S. james of Compostela in Spain. Saint james and come geyne. Item, in the Chirch of Saint Laurence without the walls there lieth the body of Saint Laurence and of Saint Stephan, and at the high altar ye have xciii M. year of pardon and as many Karyns. And who that visit the other altars hath at each altar seven M. and as many karyns. Also the Pope Pelagius granted there at iiii festis of the year at each feste seven c year of pardon, and as many karyns, and who that goth thither every Wednesday, he delivered a soul out of Purgatory, and himself quytt of all sins. Item, in the Chirche of saint Crucis there is a chambre or a chapel within, that Pope Siluestre named Iherusalem, there is the bond that christ was led with to his crucifyeng, and there been two sausers, the one is full of Ihs' blood, and the other is full of our Lady's milk and the sponge wherein was mengyd easel and gall. And one of the nails that jesus was with on the cross, and a part of the block that saint john his head was smeten off upon, and two arms the one of Saint Peter, the oder of saint Poule. Item there stondyd a cheir in which Pope * 〈◊〉 Accensius was martyred and to all them that sit in that either is granted an C M. year of pardon and as many karyns, and every sunday a soul out of Purgatory and the treddendell of all sins released. Item, in the same Chirche is a great part of one of the crosses that one of the thevis was put on that was crucified with christ. Item, in the same Church is the title of christ which that was in latin, Hebrew, and greek, which was found in the time of Pope Innocent, to the which the same Pope hath granted great pardon. Item, in the Chirche of saint Mari Mayor there standeth on the high altar the head of saint Iheronimus, and there ye have xiiii M. year of pardon and as many karyns. And on the oder altar on the right hand there is the cradle that▪ jesus lay in, and of our Lady's milk, and a great part of the holy cross, and of many oder body's Seintiss, and there ye have nineteen M. year of pardon, and as many karynes. And Pope Nicholas the iiii, and saint Gregory, each of them granted thereto X M. year of pardon, and as many karynes. And from thassention of our Lord into crystmas, ye have there xiiii M. year of pardon, and as many karyns, and the thread part of all sins released. Item, in the Chirche of saint Sebastian without the Town there in a please that Pope Calixt named Tolund, as there the Angel appeared and spack to Gregory the Pope. In that place is foryefenes of all sins and all penance. At the high altar is granted xxviii c year of pardon, and as many karynes; and who so cometh to the furst altar that standeth in the Chirche hath xiiii c. year of pardon, and there is a sellare or a vault wherein lieth buried xlix Popes that died all Martyrs, who so cometh fyrste into that place delyveryth viii souls out of Purgatory of such as he most desireth, and as much pardon thereto that all the world can not number ne reckon, and every sunday ye delyver a soul out of Purgatory. And in that sellare standeth a pit, there saint Peter and saint Poule were his in ccl. year that no man wist where they were be come; and who that putteth his head into that pit and taketh it out again is clean of all sin. Pope Gregory and Silvester, and Pope Nicholas, and Pope Pelagius, and Pope Honorius, each of them granted to the same place one M. year of pardon and as many karyns. And there lieth the bodies of dyvers oder holy people which were too long to write off. And so the grace that is at Saint Sebastian's is grounded that it can not be taken away. Item, in the Chirche of saint Mary Mayor afore written, afore the choir is the image of our lady which saint Luke did paint; which image saint Gregory did bear from Mary Mayor to Saint Peter's th'apostle, also coming afore the castle of Saint Angel, he see an Angel in the height of the castle, having in his hand a burning sword, and with him a great multitude of Angels, which song afore that image▪ Regina celi letare, etc. answering saint Gregory. Ora pro nobis Deum Alleluia. Item, in the Chirche of saint john Latryneus, the Pope Siluestre yas thereto as many year of pardon, as it rained drops of water the day that hallowed the Chirche. And that time it rained so sore, that no man had seen a greater rain before that day. And when he had granted this, he thought in himself whedyr he had so much power or not. Then there came a voice from heaven, and said Siluestre thou hast power enough to give that pardon and god granted thus moche thereto; That and a man had made a vow too Iherusalem and lacked good to do his pilgrimage if he go from saint Peter's Chirch to saint john Latrynes' he shall be discharged and have absolution of that promise. And any time that a man cometh to saint john Latrynes, he is quit of all sins and of all penance, with that, that he be penitent for his sins. blessed is the mother that beareth the child that heareth Mass on saturdays at saint john Latrynes, for he delyvaryd all them that he desireth out of Purgatory too the number of lxxvii souls. Item, upon the tour of the Chirch standeth a double cross that was made of the sword that saint john was beheaded with, and at every time that a man beholdith that cross he hath xiiii M. year of pardon, and as many karynes of all penance. And at the high altar ye have remishion of all sins, and of all penance and innumerable pardon more than he needeth for himself. There is the grave that saint john laid himself in when he had said mass, and than come a great light over the grave, and when that light was goon than funde they no ting there but hevynly bred. In that grave cometh every good Friday in the night ye holy cream and oil, and he that putteth therein his head hath an CM. year of pardon, and as many karyns. And behind the high altar standeth a cheyr which God sat in, and who that sitteth therein hath the iii part of all his sins released. And who that visit the all the odir altars hath at each altar xliiii C. year of pardon, and as many karynes; and on the oon side of the Chirche there is a sacrifice that is at saint john Baptist altar, and there is the table that our Lord eat att upon Mandy Thurrysday. And also the tables of stone with the x Commandementies that our Lord gave to Moses upon the mount of Sinai; And there is a iiii square of the v barley loves and of the two fishes, and also there is our ladies kevyrchef. Item, in that same Chirche on the high altar be the heads of saint Peter and Poule, and the head of Zacharie the Prophet, father of S. john Baptist with diverse odyr reliquys. Item, in the same Chirchyard standeth a chapel that is called Sanctum Sanctorum, there is the face of our Lord; there may ye have xiiii M. year of pardon, and as many karynes. When the Emperor Constantyne was christened though spoke he to Pope Siluestre: In that, that I have given my house to the wurschip of god, grant you mekely his grace to all them that willingly come to this town. Thoo answered Pope Siluestre, our Lord Ihu Criste that by his great mercy hath purged you of your great lazarye he mut purge all them that visityth this Chyrch of all her sin and of all other penance. He that will not believe this may go to saint Latrynes before the choir door, and there he may see in a marbill all that is written here. From saint john's day unto Scrovetyd all this pardon is doubled, and fro Scrovetide unto Ester the pardon is threefold double; blessed is he that may deserve to have this pardon. And in the same chapel abovesaid may come no weemen. Item, above that chapel on the lefre side are stoppies which sometime ware at Iherusalem; and who so goth open though steps on his knees, he deliverith o soul out of Purgatory. Item, in the Chirch of saint Eustace you may have relyse and pardon of all sin. And he that is shreven and repentant of his sin he hath a M. year pardon, and as many karynes. My Author having spoken of the Indulgences and privileges granted to these principal Churches, and the great benefit which devout pilgrims receive which come to visit these sacred structures, and highly reverence the holy relics therein contained, he proceeds in this place (according to his promise) to give his Reader knowledge what a karyne is. A karyne (saith he) is too go wulward seven year. Item to fasten bred and water the Friday seven year. Item, in seven year not too sleep oon night there he sleepeth a nother. Item, in seven year not to come under no covered place, but if it be to here Mass in the Chirch door or porch. Item in seven year not to eat nor drink out of no vessel, but in the same that he made his avow in. Item, he that fulfillyth all thes poyntiss seven year during; doth and wynnethe a karyne, that is to say a Lentdum. Thus may a man have at Rome (as he concludes) great pardon and Soul health; blessed been thoos pepull and yn good time borne that reslayyeth thes graces, and well keepeth them. Of the which pardon and grace, our Lord Ihesu christ mote grant to every good christian man. Amen. Then follow the Indulgences granted to other lower Churches in Rome: but by these you may imagine the rest. And by both judge of the Pardons granted by several Popes to the Cathedral, Conuentuall, and Parochial Churches of England. And think what concourse of pilgrims and other people daily visited the foresaid Churches; which will hereafter appear within each several Diocese. And here give me leave a little to speak of a certain general Pardon or Indulgence granted by Alexander the sixth, Bishop of Rome, to this Realm of England. By which he enriched himself, and the Church-Ministers, and emptied the purses of many of the King's subjects. Towards the latter end of the year, one thousand five hundred, being the year of jubilee (so called, for that it is the year of joy or deliverance) the foresaid Bishop of Rome sent hither to King Henry the seventh, one jasper Powe or Pons, The great pardon, or Heavenly Grace. a Spaniard, a man of excellent learning, and most civil behaviour, to distribute the Heavenly Grace (as he termed it) to all such as (letted by any forcible impediment) could not come to Rome that year to the jubilee which was there celebrated. The Articles contained in the Bull of this great Pardon, or Heavenly Grace, were as followeth. The Articles of the bull of the holy jubiley of full remission, Copied out of an old Roll, now in the custody of Sir Simon D'ewes' Knight. and great joy granted to the realm of england, Wales, Irelond, Gernesey, and Garnesey, and other places under the subjection of our Soveraygne Lord King Henry the seventh to be distributyd according to the true meaning of our holy Fader unto the Kings' Subjects. Ower most holy Fader the Pope, God's Vicar in earth, of his holy and gracious disposition, faderla beholding the hole flok of christian people commited to his cure and charge, daily studyeth diligently the health and welfar of your souls: And in as much as in his holiness provideth for all such perils and jeopardies as may fall to the same, by granting of great Indulgence, and remishyon of sins and trespasses. Where as the holy year of grace now of late passed, that is to say, the year of remishyon of all sins, ye year of joy and gladness, was celebrate devowtely, and solenly keeped, by great and infenite number of christian pepull in the Cowrte of Rome. Ower said most holy Fader the Pope, as well considering the infenite number of christian people both spiritual and temporal which was desirous to have had the said remishyon and Grace, and would have visetted the said Cowrte of Rome, save only that they were let, either by sickness, feebleness, poverty, long distance, and great jeopardy; or business and charges of spiritual or temporal occupations, or at that time purposed not to obtain and perchase the said Grace, and now be in will and desire to have the same. As willing, and effectually desiring to provide and withstand the most cruel purpose, and infenyte malice of our most cruel enemies of our christian faith the Turks which continually studieth, and gretely enforceth himself with all his might and strength to subvert and utterly destroy the holy Religion of our Soverayne Criste. As it is not unknown how now of late, the said most cruel enemy hath obtained and goten with great might and power many and diverse great cities and castles; As Modon, Neopo●ton, and Corona, with many oder Towns and possessions which was than in the dominatyon and possession of christian people. And most cruelly hath slay and destroyed infenite number of christian people without mercy or pite, both by water and by land. Seeing and considering his Holiness, that he of himself is not sufficient, ne of power to resist, and withstand the foresaid great malices, and porpoises, without the aid and help of christian people; Hath statured, ordained, and granted of his Pastoral power, as is contained in thes Articles following. Furst ower sovereign Lord King Herry the seventh, with all his progeny; all Archebusschoppes, Busschoppes, abbots, Dukes, Earls, Barons, Knygtes, Squyers, gentlemen, yeomen, cetezines, and Strangers▪ and all oder christian people, both men and women, what oder degree, or condition soever they be, of spiritual or temporal, secular, or regular, dwelling, or for a time abiding within the realm of england, Irelond, Wales, Gernesey or Garnsey, or any oder place undre the rule or domination of our said sovereign Lord the Knyge, which at any time after the publycation hereof, to the last Evensong of the Octaves of Ester next coming, truly confessed and contrite visit such Chorches as shall be assigned to be vesited; by the right reverend Fader in God Gasper Powe Prothonotary, and Doctor of Divinity, of our said holy Fader, the Pope's Imbassator, and in this holy jubeley Commissarie, or by oder by him substituted or deputed; and there put into the chest for th'intent ordained, such some or quantity of money, gold, or silver, as is limited and taxed here following in the last end of this paper; to be spent for the defence of ower faith; shall have the same Indulgence, Pardon, and Grace with remission of all their sins, which they should have had, if they had gone personally to Rome in the year of Grace, and there vesited all the Chorches assigned for that intent, both within the cite and without, and alsoo done all oder things required to have be done there for the obtaining of the said grace of the ●ubeley. Also our said holy Fader hath gevyn full power and authority to his said Commissary and his Deputy's to che●e and assign Confessors and Penitenciers secular and regular in all such places as shall please the said Commissary or his Deputies; to here the confessions of all such as are disposed to receive the Pardon of this holy jubeley. The which confessors and Penitenciers shall have the same authority and power in every behalf which the Penitenciers of Rome had at Rome in the year of Grace. That is to say, they shall absolve them of all manner of crimes, trespasses, trangressyons, and sins what so ever they be, though the absolutyon there of be reserved to the Court of Rome; or to the Pope himself; nothing except, but such as was except to the Petenciers of Rome: and that was only the absolution of Conspirators in the person of the holy Fader the Pope, or in the state of the See of Rome. And also the falsaries of the Pope's Bulls, and of oder writings passing from the Court of Rome: of the sellers or conveyors of harness, or oder things prohibited to the heathen people. And of thes that layeth violente bonds on Busschoppes, or oder Prelates of the Chirche, which be above Busschoppes. And the said Confessors shall have power to give and grant to all the said people confessed and contrite, clean and full remission which is called, A pena et culpa. Also the said Confessors and Penitenciers shall have power and authority to dispense and change all manner of vows into alm●sdede for the defence of our Faith, none except, though itt be to Rome, to Iherusalem, or to saint James. Also our said holy Fader willing no man to be excluded from this great Grace and Indulgence, hath granted, that all such as be seek and impotent, or oderwyse diseased so that * yei may not easily visitte the Chorches assigned to be visetted, shall have for them and all their household the said Indulgence, remission and Grace, as well as if they did visitte the said Chorches. Furst compownding effectually with the said Commissary, or his Deputies for the same. Also itt is granted by our said holy Fader that all those that were at Rome this last year of Grace shallbe parteable and capax of this said Grace and Pardon, it they will receive itt. Also our said holy Fader hath granted to his said Commissary, and his substitutes full power to interpretate, and declare, all such doubts as may be found, or be moved in thighs his grants, or in the execution of the same, or any part there of, willing and commanding that their interpretation shall effectually be taken and stoned. Also our said holy Fader hath straight commanded, in the virtue of obedience, and under the pain of cursing, the sentence in that behalf gevin; of the which they may not be assoiled, but of the Pope himself, furst satisfaction made with the said Commissary, or his Depute after the quality of the trespass. That none ordinary secular, or regular, or any oder people secular or regular, let his Bulls or any oder writings made for declaration her of, to be published in their Chorches, Citees, or Dioceses, where or when itt shallbe needful; nor that they shall ask or receyve though itt be offered any money or oder reward, for the publication or sufferance thereof, or any otherwise let or hinder th'expedition thereof, and goodspeede of the said Indulgence; or persuade directly or indirectly any person to withdraw their good mind or purpose in that behalf. Also our said holy Fader chargeth and commandeth all preachers of the word of God, whate condition so ever thy be, as well men or religion as oder; that they shall publish, and effectually declare in their preachings, and oder places when they shall be required by the said Commissarie, or his deputies the said Indulgence and Pardon under the pain specified. Also our said holy Fader hath suspended and disannulled all manner of Pardons and grants, granted or to be granted, notwithstanding any special clause that they should not be revolted without special mention made de verbo in verbum. The Tax what every man shall put into the Chest that will receyve this great grace of this jubeley. Furst every man and woman, what degree, condicioun or state soever they be, if it be an Archebusschoppe, Duke, or of any oder dignity spiritual or temporal, having lands to the yearly valour of M. M. l. or above, must pay or cause to be paid to this holy enrent, and effect, for defence of our Feithe, against the most great and cruel enemy of the same the Turk, if they will receive this great indulgence and Grace of this jubeley; for themselves and their wife's and their children not married, and effectually without disseyte put into the Chest ordained for that intent of true and lawful money in that country where they be iii l. seven s. viii d. Also every man and woman having tenementes and rents to the yearly value of one M. l. or above▪ to the sum of two M. l. exclusive must pay for themselves and their wives xl s. Item, all those that hath lands and Rents, etc. to the yearly valour of ccccl. or above to the sum of a M. l. exclusive must pay for themselves and their wives xxvi s. viii d. Item, all those that hath lands and rents, etc. to the yearly valour of ccl. or above, to the sum of ccccl. exclusive must pay for themselves, etc. xiii s. iiii d. Item, all those that have lands and rents, etc. to the yearly valour of one cl. or above, to the yearly valour of ccl. exclusive must pay for themselves, etc. vi s. viii d. Item, all those that have lands and rents, etc. to the yearly valour of xl. l. or above to the sum of one cl. exclusive must pay for themselves, etc. two s. vi d. Item, all those that have lands and rents, etc. to the yearly valour of xx l. or above to the sum of xl l. exclusive must pay for themselves, etc. xuj. d. Item, men of Religion having lands, Rents, and Tenements to the yearly valour of two M. l. or above, must pay for themselves and their Covent, xl. Item, those that hath lands and rents, etc. to the yearly valour of one M. l. or above to the yearly valour exclusive must pay for themselves and their Covent, vl. iiii s. Item, all those that have lands and rents, &c to the yearly valour of cccccls. or above, to the valour of one M. l. exclusive must pay for them and their Covent iii l. vi s. viii d. Item, all those that hath lands and rents to the yearly valour of iicls. or above, to the sum of ccccl. exclusive, must pay for themselves and their Covent, xx s. Item, those that hath lands and rents to the yearly valour of xl l. and above, to the sum of on cl. must pay for themselves and their Covent, x s. Item, secular men and women which hath lands and rents to the yearly valour of xl l. or undre, whose movable goods extendyth to the valour of on M l. must pay for themselves and their wife's, xl s. Item, those whose goods movable extendyth to ccccl. or above, to the sum of one M. l. exclusive, must pay for themselves and their wife's, vi s. viii d. Item, those whose goods movable extendyth to the valour of ccl. or above to the sum of ccccl. must pay for themselves and their wives seven s. vi d. Item, those whose goods movable be within the valour of ccl. and not under xx l. must pay for themselves their wife's and children not married, xii d. Item, those whose goods movable extendyth not to the valour of xx l shall pay for themselves their wife's and children as it shall please them of their devocyon. The Articles of the Bull of dispensation with Simony, Usury, and of goods wrongfully keeped; reserved to the Commissary only. Moreover ower said holy Fader the Pope willing more largely to provide for the health and welfar of the souls of all christian pepull dwelling or abiding in the realm and places above written; hath given, and granted, full authority, and power, to the said Venerable Fader in God, Gaspar Pow● his Orator and Commissary, to absolve, and dispense with all manner of people, dwelling or abiding within the said realm, or places above rehearsed, men or women, of what degree or condition so ever they be, spiritual or temporal, secular or regular, which hath committed Simony, in geving or receving holy Orders, or Benefices spiritual or any other wai●s; that they may, notwithstanding the said Simony so commyttid ministre in the orders so receyved: And the Benefices so obtained lawfully keep and occupy, and the fruits or to be receyved, occupy and despose at their pleasure. And if the said people by reason thereof have run into irregularite; as there upon singing Mass, or oder wise ministering the holy Sacramenties of the Chirche: The said Commissary hath full power to despence with that irregularite; and to take away all infamy and unableness which they be in by reason of the same. Always provided that the said people make a composytyon hereof with the said Commissary, and such money as they compound for, effectually to pay to the said Commissary, to be spent in this holy use for the relief and defence of our faith. Also the said Commissary hath power to compound, absolve, and dispense with all those that occupy evil goten goods; all usurers, and all such that wrongfully and unleefully occupieth or witholdeth oder men's goods by finding; or goods hid not knowing, or dowting who be the owners of the said goods, or to whom they should make restitution, that they leefully keep, and occupy the same goods. Furst making composition for the same with the said Commyssarie, of some certain sum of money to be spent in the foresaid holy use, that is to say, for the relief and defence of ower Faith, against the most cruel and bitter enemies of the same, the Turks. Also if there be any willing to be created Doctor in both Laws, or in one of them; the said Commissary hath power to do it, as well as if he were created in any University: And so of oder degrees, etc. Also this Pope by his Bulls imparted this his blessing and benefit of the jubeley to all other kingdoms and territories under his spiritual jurisdiction and obeisance, and to all in like manner, and upon the like conditions. By which you may gather, that this benevolent liberality of pardon and heavenly Grace, was not altogether freely given by the Pope; neither was that mass of money, thus congested together, spent in any wars against the Turks, as he promised; but conveied to Rome, and there laid up in his own Treasury: whilst the enemies of the faith did greatly infest the Christians. But this Pope of all other, in my judgement, had the most shameful and cunning shifts to get money withal, and was more opprobrious in all his actions then any other either before or since. But as he lived wickedly, so he died miserably, being poisoned with the same bane which he had prepared for another. Actius Sannazarius, and other writers of that age made certain Epitaphs of him to his eternal infamy. Which I find thus translated into English, out of Io. Bale in his Pageant of Popes. Perhaps whose Tomb this is (my friend) ye do not know, Then pause a while if that ye have no haste to go. Though Alexander's name upon the stone be graven, 'tis not that great, but he that late was Prelate shorn and shaved. Who thirsting after blood, devoured so many a noble Town, Who tossed and turned the ruthful states of kingdoms upside down. Who to enrich his sons, so many Nobles slew, And waste the world with fire and sword and spoiling to him drew. Defying laws of earth and heaven, and God himself erewhile, So that the sinful Father did the Daughter's bed defile. And could not from the bands of wicked wedlock once refrain, And yet this pestilent Prelate did in Rome ten years remain. Now friend remember Nero, or else Caligula his vice; Or Heliogabalus: enough: the rest ye may surmise, For shame I dare not utter all. Away, my friend, with this. Another. The Spaniard lieth here that did all honesty defy, To speak it briefly: in this Tomb all villainy doth lie. Another. Lest Alexander's noble name, my friend, should thee beguile, Away: for here both treachery doth lurk, and mischief vile. Another. Though Alexander after death did vomit matter black, Yet marvel not: he drank the same, and could not cause it pack. Upon the year of jubilee aforesaid kept by this Pope Alexander▪ The Roman Priest that promised both heaven and stars to sell, By treachery and murtherings hath made a gap to hell. This Alexander before (by devilish means) he obtained the Papacy, was called Rodericus Borgia, a Spaniard borne in Valentia. But of him enough, except it tended more to the matter. Now may it please you read certain blank verses taken out of my fore remembered Author, Piers Blow man, who speaks in his language of the Pope and Cardinals, Pardons and pilgrimages effectually to this purpose. Passus 19 God amend the Pope, that pilleth holy Kirke And claimeth before the King to be kept of Christian Of the Pope. And counteth not though christian be killed and robbed And find folk to fight, and christian folk to spill. Again the old law and new law as Paul thereof witnesseth. Non occides, mihi vindictam, etc. I ne knew never Cardinal that he ne come fro the Pope, And we Clarks when they come for her Commens payen, Of the Cardinal● For her pelures, and palfreys, and pilors that hem follow. The Commune clamat quotidie each a man to other, The country is the curseder that Cardinals comen in. And there they lig, and leng more lechery there reigneth Therefore, quoth this victory, by very god I would That no Cardinals ne come among the comen people, But in her holiness helden 'em still At Avion among the jews; cum sancto sanctus eris, Or in Rome as their rule will the relics to keep. In the seventh passage he delivers his opinion of the Pope's Pardons, in these words. The Priest proved no pardon to do well, And deemed that dowel Indulgence passed Biennales and Triennales, and Bishops letters And how dowel at the day of doom is * dignely undersongen, And passed all the Pardon of S. Peter's Church. A little after in the same passage, thus. Souls that have sinned seven * times. scythes deadly And to trust to these Trentals truly me thynketh Is not so * siker for the soul as to do well. Therefore I * a ●●ise read you * ●●lers. renkes that rich be on this earth upon trust of treasure Trientales to have Be ye never the bolder to break the * ten Commandments. ten hests And namely ye Masters, Mayres, and judges That have the wealth of this world, and for wise men be holden To purchase you Pardons, and the Pope's Bulls: At the dreadful doom when the dead shall arise And comen all tofore Christ accounts for to give How thou leadest thy life here, and his laws keepest And how thou didst day by day the doom will rehearse. A poke full of Pardons there, ne provincial letters, Though ye be founden in the fraternity of the iiii Orders And have Indulgence an hundred fold, but if dowel you help I beset your patents and your pardons at a pies heel. Therefore I counsel all christian to cry god mercy, And make Christ our means that hath made amends. That God give us grace here, or we go hence Such works to work while we been here That after our death's day, dowel rehearse At the day of Dome we did as he * ●● he was named. hight. The same Author showing what true pilgrimage is, Of pilgrimages ●ad. ●. breathes forth these blank verses following. Nay by my soul health, quoth Piers, and 'gan for to swear, I nolde * take fang a ferthing for Saint Thomas shrine. The way to Truths dwelling place. Truth would love me the less long time therefore after, And if ye will to wend well this his the way thither. Ye must go thorough meekness both men and wives Till ye come into conscience, that Christ wit such That ye love our Lord God, * the best. leavest of all things, And that your neighbours next; In no wy●e appeire Otherwise than thou wouldst he wrought to thyself. In the same passage. Ye that seek S. james, and Saints at Rome Seek saint Truth, for he may save you all. In another place. Pass. 12. He doth well without doubt, that doth as * ●an. beuti teacheth That is if thou be man married, thy make thou love, And live forth as law will, while ye lyven both. Right so if thou be religious, ren thou neverfurther, To Rome nor Roch Madon, but as thy rule teacheth, And hold the under obedience, that high way is to heaven. And if thou be maiden to marry, and might well continue, Seek never no saint further for thy soul's health. Pilgrimage what it is. Pilgrimage, is called of the Latins, Peregrinatio, quasi peregre abitio, a going into a strange country; for a short pilgrimage is not worth a pin: neither is that Image in so much honour or respect in that country where it is, as in far countries. For example, the Italians, yea those that dwell near Rome, will mock and scoff at our English (and other) pilgrims that go to Rome to see the Pope's holiness, and Saint Peter's chair, and yet they themselves will run to see the Relics of Saint james of Compostella in the kingdom of Galicia in Spain, which is above twelve hundred English miles. And so the Spaniards hold Rome to be a very holy place, and therefore spare no cost or labour to go thither. And so of other pilgrimages. Pilgrimage was also called Romeria, quia Romam ut plurimum peregrinationes, because pilgrimages forth most part were made to Rome. Now having acquainted my Reader (omitting many particulars, I confess, which will more plainly appear in the sequel) by what devices and means, the Religious Votaries and others of the Clergy within this kingdom, as also the Bishop of Rome (who most commonly went away with the best share) augmented their revenues, and deceived the poor Commons. I am here to speak of a yearly tribute paid only to the See of Rome (which many times I obuiously meet withal) from the payment whereof, neither the King nor the Clergy, nor any householder 〈◊〉 in England or Ireland were privileged, and this was called 〈◊〉 which is a Saxon word compounded of Rome and Scot, as you wou●d say, the 〈◊〉 bute due to Rome, or an Apostolical custom, or the see of 〈…〉 penning, or Denarij Sancti Petri, Peter pence: From which payment 〈◊〉 Matthew the Monk of Westminster, neither the King, nor the Archbishop, Bishop, Abbot, nor Prior, were exempted. I he first ●ounder of 〈◊〉 Tribute was Inas, or Ina, king of the Westsaxons. Of which the foresaid Matthew thus writes. Ina the pious and potent king of the West Saxons, lea●ing his temporal kingdom (thereby to gain an eternal) to the government of his kinsman Ethelard, traveled on pilgrimage to Rome, where in the said City by the permission of Gregory the second, he built an house which he called, The English School; unto which, the kings of England, and the Regal Image, as also Bishops, Priests, Clerks, and others might repair, to ●ee instructed in good literature, and in the Catholic faith; lest that any thing in the English Church might be sinisterly expounded contrary to the universal unity, and so, being established in the orthodoxal and right received Faith, they might return back again into their own country. For the doctrine and Schools of the English Nation since the time of Archbishop Austin, had been interdicted by diverse Romish Bishops, for certain heresies which daily appeared after the coming in of the Saxons into Britain, by reason of the commixture of the misbelieving wicked Pagans, with the Christians of holy conversation. He also caused a Church to be erected near to the foresaid house or College, which he dedicated to the honour of the blessed Virgin Mary; in which such of the English as came to Rome might celebrate d●uine Service, and that therein, if any of the said English there happened to depart this world, they might be in●erred. And all these, that they might for ever be more firmly corroborated, it was ordained by a general decree, throughout all the kingdom of the Westsaxons, that in every family one penny should be yearly collected and sent over to blessed Saint Peter and the Church of Rome, which in English Saxons was called Romescot; that the English there abiding might by that mean have sufficient to live upon. Thus ●a●re Matthew of Westminste● surnamed the Flower-gatherer. The which in substance is thus delivered by a late writer, yet in a different manner. He (meaning Ina) instituted also a certain yearly payment to the See of Rome, enjoining every one of his Subjects that possessed in his house of one kind of goods to the value of twenty pence, that he should pay a p●ny to the Pope yearly upon Lammas day; which at that time was contributed under the name of the King's Alms, but afterwards was called and challenged by the name of Peter-pences. Another of the same gift by the said King hath these times. He gave to Rome each year The Rome pence thorrow West sex all about Perpetually to be well paid and clear, For unto Rome he went without all doubt. After the example, and with the like zeal of Ina, Offa the most magnificent king of the Mercias', in great devotion went also to Rome, and made every house within his territories subject to this payment of Romescot; Hand. cap. 133. Ossa gave through Mers the Rome penny Unto the Church of Rome. Afterwards about the year eight hundred and fifty, this tribute was confirmed, and made further payable throughout all England; For Ethelwolfe (as then being sole Monarch of the Englishmen; (having been sometimes for certain years (as Haneden and Brampton write) Bishop of Winchester) remembering his Ecclesiastic profession; and ordaining first that tithes and lands due to holy Church should be free from all tributes and Regal services; in the nineteenth year of his reign, with the like devotion of the two former kings, went in pilgrimage, taking with him his youngest son Alfred, or Elfred, to the foresaid chief City of the Romans; where he was both honourably received and entertained by the Bishop of Rome and the whole Senate, for the space of one year and upwards: in which time he rebuilt the English School before remembered, which lately had been almost quite consumed with fire. And in lieu of his kind entertainment, confirmed the former grant of Peter-pences, causing it to be paid throughout all his Dominions; and further covenanted to pay yearly to Rome three hundred Marks, thus to be employed; one hundred to Saint Peter's Church, another hundred to Saint Paul's light, and the third to the Pope (a Saint that evermore will have his share) to the intent, saith one, that no Englishmen should do penance in bounds, as he saw some do before his face. This Athilwolfe to Rome took his way In pilgrimage with him his son Aelfrede, To Peter and Pole he granted infenitife The Rome pence of all england. As Flores saith as I con understand. Saith Harding, cap. 105. And further to confirm the premises, may it please you to trouble your patience in the reading of these following hard rhymes transcribed out of a nameless old Author. A Manuscript in the Library of Edmond Cotton ●●pti●e. Adelwolfe his son at Chester his cite For all his kings and Barons of estate Sent forth anon at his parliament to be Whycheatte Chester was than preordynate To which all came, both Kings, Duke's, and Prelate And other all of honour or emprise Him for to do obeisance and servysse. anon to Room he went In pilgrimage with holy good intent. Where he was so abiding full too yer In holy life and full perfactyon. In rial wise as to a pryns afer And to the Pope with full affection His commoning ay had at his election. He gave to Peter light And to Sent Poule, wha● is full great repair Too thousand mark of Venyse gold full right For sustenance of the Chyrches right. He Busschopp was in his Fadars' day And for default of heir was crowned king Wharfor when he his land in good array F of servysse had set above all thing He granted tithe of all his land offspring Till three people dwelling in unity Why charr on God dwelling in trinity. And Room pens he grant unto the Pope Perpetuelly to have of all england. So perfytt was his mind who couth hit grope In all goodness growndyd I undyrstond. Through all his might in all his noble land, The Piece he kept, and in his Se. iudicyall The common Law among his people all. Edgar king of England made sharp constitutions for the payment of this Tribute. And it was one of the laws of Edward the Confessor, that every householder which had triginta denariatas vivae pecuniae in domo sua de proprio suo, Thirty pence of ready money, or of any kind of cattle in his house of his own proper, should by the Law of the English give a penny to Saint Peter, and by the Law of the Danes half a mark; which penny was to be demanded at or upon the feast of Saint Peter and Paul, and to be collected before the feast of Saint Peter ad vincula, and not to be deferred to any further day: And if any withheld the payment thereof any longer time, complaint was to be made to the King's Officers, for that this penny was the King's Alms. And that the party so offending, should he constrained by justice to make payment thereof, on pain of forfeiting his goods. Now if any man had more dwelling houses then one, he was to pay only for that house where he should happen to be resiant, at the said feast of Saint Peter and Paul. Henry the second upon his conquest of Ireland, imposed this tribute upon that kingdom, only to curry favour with the Pope, who as then was Adrian the fourth, called before his inthronization, Nicholas Breakespeare, borne at Abbot's Langley in Hertfordshire. For he (saith Speed in the life of the said Henry) knowing how great and dangerous tumults the Popes had raised upon small occasions, thought his way would be much easier, if he went onward with the Pope's good favour, which he easily obtained for a fee, viz. a penny yearly to be paid to Saint Peter of every house in Ireland. Edward the third in the 39 year of his reign (saith Trevisa the Continuer of Polychronicon) ordained, that this Tribute of Peter pence, should not be from thenceforth any more gathered within this Realm, nor any such payment made at Rome. But howsoever (saith Hollinshed in the said year) this payment was abrogated at this time, by King Edward, it was after rene●ed again by the Pope, and the money was gathered in certain Shires of this Realm, until the days of king Henry the eighth. Parsons, and Impropriators of Churches, at this day in many places of England, are paid this penny under the name of a Smoke penny. This Chapter is grown much longer than I expected. Of which an end. CHAP. XVIII. Of Parishes, Bishoprickes Of the power and sanctity of Bishops and Priests. Of Sanctuaries, and of the Eccles●asticall state of England and Wales. 〈◊〉 Angel. 〈◊〉. PArochia dicit●r locus in quo degit populus alicui Ecclesiae baptismali deputatus, & certis finibus limitatus. A Parish is said to be a place in which people do hue assigned to some Christian Church, and limited by certain bounds. Euaristus the first, Bishop of Rome, who suffered martyrdom under Traian the Emperor, about the year of our redemption, one hundred and ten, ordained Curates, and disposed of them to certain places, that they might administer the Sacraments to such people as were committed to their charge; and withal he ordained that these Curates should be nourished and maintained by those people of whose souls they had the cure; whereupon they were called, Parochi 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 à prebenco, vel à mutua alimentorum praebitione, Parochians, or Parishioners of the mutual exhibition, and giving of nourishment one to another; the Priest for the souls of his people, and the people for the maintenance of their Priest. Dionysius, that blessed Martyr, Bishop of Rome, circa ann. 266. did attempt to do the like throughout the whole Christian world, appointing by distribution certain places, to which he assigned Ecclesiastical persons, there to administer the Sacraments, pray, and preach the word, and to receive the tenths of the possessions contained within the limits of the foresaid places. Honorius Archiepiscopus Cantuar▪ circa annum à salute reparata 636. Angliam primus in Parochias distribuere cepit. Honorius Archbishop of Canterbury, about the year of our salvation, 636. begins first to divide England into Parishes. 〈…〉. cap. 9 But this opinion is controverted by a late learned Antiquary, and by him plainly approved, that Honorius was not the first that made this division here in England, but that Parishes were divided, and Parish-Churches built long before his time; even in the Primitive Hierarchy of the Britaine●. And that in the time of King Arthur, about the year of our Lord 490 when Dubritius was made Archbishop of South Wales, diverse Churches with their endowments of Tithes, oblations, and other profits, were appropriated to him the said Dubritius, and his successors. And that in those times Churches were built here no doubt can be made. Neither is it to be conceived how Christianity could be in any nation, saith my Author, much ancienter (if generally received, or by any number) than Churches, or some convenient houses, or other places in the nature of Churches, appointed for the exercise of devotion. And express mention is made of a Church (of which I have spoken before) built in Canterbury in the time of the Romans, to the honour of Saint Martin, in which Augustine and his followers when they came first from Rome, made their holy assemblies. After that the storms of Diocletians persecution were overblown, saith Bede, Lib. 1. cap ●. which was circa Ann. 290. the faithful Christians, who in time of danger lay hid in dens and deserts, came forth, and showed themselves abroad, renewed their Churches, which before were overthrown flat to the ground, founded, builded, and perfited new Temples, in honour of the holy Martyrs, celebrated holy days, consecrated the holy mysteries, with pure mouth and heart, and every where as it were displayed their ensigns in sign of Conquest. Aliquindo Parochia dicitur totus Episcopatus, Sum. Angl. lit. P. Will. Malms. digest. Pont. l. 1. saith one, and Parochia etiam Dioecesis Episcopalis dicitur, saith another. Sometime a Parish is said to be the whole Bishopric, and sometime the Episcopal Diocese. Kenwalch King of the Westsaxons, divided, In duas Parochias Pra●●nciam; the Province into two Parishes, or Dioceses, when as he erected a new Bishopric at Winchester, taken out of the Diocese of Dorchester, a ruinous Town now in Oxfordshire. In the year 680. Merciorum Provincia in quinque Parochias est divisa: The Province of Mercia was divided into five Parishes, that is, into five Bishoprics; and thus Honorius may be said properly to have been the first under whom his Province was divided into such Parishes or Bishoprickes. Anno Dom. 747. in the reign of Ethelbald, Will. Malms. de gest. Pont. lib. king of the Mercians, in a Synod holden at Clovesho, it was decreed, Vt singuli Episcopi omni anno Parochias suas circumirent: That every Bishop should go about or visit his Parishes once every year. And in the first Synod or Convocation of the English Church, Bed. l 4. ca 5. holden at Hereford, Ann. 670, it was determined, Vt nullus Episcoporum Parochiam alterius invadat, sed contentus sit gubernatione creditae sihi plebis: That no Bishop should have aught to do in another's Parish, but be contented with the charge of the people committed unto him. Kenulph, Will. Malms. de g●stis Reg li. 1. c. 4. King of the Mercians, in his Epistle to Leo the third, Bishop of Rome, writeth, Quod contra Canon's à Patre Gregorio constitut as auctoritas Dorobernensis Metropolitanis in duas scinditur Parochias, cuius ditioni duo decim subiacere debent Episcopi. That contrary to the Canons of Saint Gregory the jurisdiction of the Metropolitical See of Canterbury was divided into two Parishes, to whose authority twelve Bishops ought to be subject. To which point of his Epistle, Leo makes this answer. In sacro scrinio nostro reperimus, sanctum Gregorium Predecessorem nostrum in integro ipsam Parochiam numero duodecim beato Augustino Archiepiscopo tradidisse Epis copos consecrandos. We find in our sacred Cabinet, our Predecessor Saint Gregory, to have given and delivered that Parish to blessed Augustine entire and whole, with the number of twelve Bishops by him to be consecrated. These great Parishes or Bishoprickes were not made Dioceses or jurisdictions together, strait from the first budding of Christianity, but in succession of time, as the number of Christians did increase, and as the true faith was spread abroad. For some Churches were under the charge of Curates, other some of Abbots, and of these were made these great Parishes or Bishoprics. The dignity and government of which was appointed to learned and religious men, which did diligently oversee, like good Shepherds, the flocks committed to their charge, and these were called Bishops. Numma. Angelica lit. E. Episcopus Grece, latin speculator interpretatur, speculari enim debet mores & vitia populi sibi subiecti & intendere ad eorum salutem. A Bishop both in Greek and Latin, signifies a beholder, or a Scout▪ watch, for he ought to behold and oversee the manners, conditions, and vices of the people living under his government, and to use the best means he can for their soul's health. Iliad. lib. 15. Homer calls Hector suum Episcopum, because he was precipuus Troiae inspector et propugnator, the chief overseer and defender of the City of Troy. Amb. in Pasto●al●. Nihil in hoc seculo excellentius sacerdotibus, nihil sublimius Episcopis reperiri potest. Nothing in this age more excelling then Priests, nothing more sublime and high than Bishops can be found. The power and holiness of Priests and Bishops. Honour et sublimitas Episcopalis nullis poterit comparationibus adaequari. The Episcopal honour and dignity can be equalled by no comparisons. Id. in Pastoral. Id. Ibid. Esto subiectus Pontifici tuo et quasi parentem animae tuae ama. Be subject to thy Bishop, and love him as the father and nourisher of thy soul. Augustine in li. de pastoribus. Nihil est in bac vita, et maxime hoc tempore difficilius, laboriosius, et periculosius Episcopi aut Presbyteri officio, sed apud Deum nihil beatius, si eo modo militetur quo noster Imperator iubet. Nothing in this life, and specially at this time more difficult, laborious, and perilous than the office of a Bishop or Priest, but before Almighty God no office more blessed; if they fight and make war after the same manner as they be commanded by their Captain our Lord and Saviour jesus Christ. Hebr. ●. Omnis Pontifex (saith Saint Paul) ex hominibus assumptus, pro hominibus constituitur in iis qui sunt ad Deum, ut offerat dona et sacrificia pro peccatis. Every Bishop or high Priest, is taken from among the men, and is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins. Corinth. 3. Corinth. 4. They are Gods labourers, God's husbandry, and Gods buildings. Let a man so think of them, as of the Ministers of Christ, and disposers of the secrets of God. Lib. 1. What is more pleasant (saith William the Monk of Malmesbury in his Prologue to the Acts of our English Bishops) then to rehearse the praise of our ancient Bishops; that thou mayest know the deeds of them of whom thou hast received the rudiments of Faith, and the incitements to a godly life. No nation of the world, saith Capgrave, in the Prologue to his Catalogue of English Saints, Io Cap hath from the beginning been so blessed with holy, learned, and religious Bishops as England, whose sanctity did so shine, that all which saw them and their good works, assuredly knew, that they were the seed, to whom God had imparted his blessings: their conversation and study being always about heavenly matters. As the rod of Aaron did bud and blossom, Numb. ●●. and bring forth ripe Almonds, so the Church and Ministry of England, by the means of our reverend Bishops, as of God's sacred instruments, did (and still doth) prosper, flourish, and bring forth fruits of righteousness, to the glory of God, and comfort of all true Christian hearts. Now before I conclude this point, Of the first in 〈◊〉 of ●ishop●. give me leave to speak a little further of the first institution of Bishops out of the book of a nameless Author, written in Latin about three hundred years since; translated into English by one William Martial, and imprinted at London by one Robert Wyer, Ann. 1535 in the 27. of King Henry the eighth, the book is called, The Defence of Peace. After the times of the Apostles, Defence of Pe●ce. Chap. 1●. the number of priests being notably augmented, and increased (saith he) to avoid slander and occasion of offending any man, and to avoid schism and dyvysion, the priests chose one among themselves, which should direct and ordre the other, as touching to the exercising of the Ecclesiastical office, or service, and the dystrybuting of the oblations, and the disposing and ordering of other things in the most convenient manner, N●t●. for our t●●s. least if every man might do this thing after his own pleasure, as he lest himself, the good ordre and servyce of the Churches might be troubled, by the reason of the diverse affections of men. This Priest which was so elected and chosen, to ordre and rule the other priests, by the custom and used manner of speaking of them that came afterwards, was only called a bishop or overseer; because not only he was overloker of the Christian people▪ for which cause all other Priests also were called Overseers in the Prymatyne Church; but also because he had the oversight of the other priests. Howsoever, saith he, in the same Chapter, in the essentyall and inseparable authority and dignity of Preesthood; the bishops have no pre-eminence above other priests, but only in authority accidental, being that the Bishop by the provydence of God is chosen (upon the former reason) to have the rule and government of the Clergy within his Diocese: For in the power and authority of making and admynystring the Sacraments, and performing of other duties belonging merely to the Preesthood, all priests (saith he) have all one authority in kind: neither the bishop of Rome, or any other bishop hath this authority any whit more largely, than any other hath who ever he be, being called a simple or pryvate Priest. And therefore it is to be mervayled, wherefore some men do stryve stiffly and frowardly affirming yet no thing reasonably, that the Pope of Rome hath more large power of the keys given to him of christ than hath other priests, Every Priest hath as much power in binding and losing as the Pope. seeing that this cannot be proved by the holy scripture, but rather the contrary. For which things, to go on with my Author, more evidently to be seen and perceyved, you ought to understand and know, that these two words Presbyter, and Episcopus, that is to say, Priest or senior, and bishop, were both of one signification, and betokened all one thing in the Prymatyve Church, albeit they were put to signify one thing of diverse propertyes, for Presbyter was a name given to them of age, which is as much to say as a senior or Elder. And Episcopus was a name given of cure or charge upon other, and is as much to say as an overloker, according to that of Saint Iherom in a certain epistle to Euandre, who saith thus, Presbyter and Episcopus, the one is a name of age, the other of dignity. These dignified priests, I mean Bishops, ever since the Conquest, their chief seat or chair in Cities, and their Churches have, ever since the sunshine of the Gospel, been called Cathedral▪ and in respect they were more spacious than other inferior Parish Churches, Camd. in Epis. D●●●. they were termed Basilicae, of which will it please you hear Camden speak. These greater Churches (saith he) when the saving light of Christ shone upon the world were termed Basilicae, for that the Basilicae of the Gentiles which were large and spacious Hauls, wherein Magistrates sat in judgement, and ministered justice, were converted into Christian Churches. Whence Ausonius wrote thus. Basilica olim negotijs plena, etc. The Basilica (or Haul of justice) in times past full of businesses, is now as full of prayers and vows: or else because they were built in form somewhat long in manner of those Basilicae. But to return back again to my Parishes, which are called Benefices for Ecclesiastical persons, like as the preferments in Cathedral Churches are termed Church Dignities: and of these, some are called Rectories, or Parsonages, some Vicaradges, as will appear by the sequel. Parochia is sometime called Plebania, and thus defined. Sintagiutis lib 1●. cap. 24. Plebania est aliud genus beneficij, et maius quam Rectoria, habet sub se Capellas et dignitatem esse putant interprete. Plebania is another kind of Benefice, and of greater circuit than a rectory; it hath under it certain Chapels, and this Plebania, or dignitas plebeia is said to be a Church dignity, by Interpreters. Questionless these Plebanians were like our side-wasted Parishes in Lanchishire, whose extensure is so large, that (to my own knowledge) some one of those Parish Churches hath fourteen Chapels of ease (as we call them) within the circumference of her limits, The Parish of whaley in Lanchishire. and as it were under her jurisdiction, all which are honoured with Parochial rites. Cathedral, Abbey and Parish Churches had great privileges of sanctuary granted unto them in former times. Sanctuaries. Now a Sanctuary is a place of refuge for offenders to escape punishment. And these Sanctuaries were so called of an old mosaical rite used amongst the Israelites, among whom every Tribe had certain Cities, and places of refuge, to which malefactors might repair, and for a time be protected from the rigour of the Law. Of which you may read in the sacred writ: Exod. 21.13. Numb. 35.1. Deuter. 4.41. and josh. 20.2. And so likewise here in great Britain Churches, Churchyards, Cities, ploughs and highways, had many privileges in this kind anciently granted and confirmed unto them. I will speak first of the last out of a late Writer, who makes old Watling-streete thus to sing his verse. Since us his kingly ways Mulmutius first began From 〈◊〉 again ●o Sea, M. Dr●yton ●oly●l. Song 16. that through the Hand ran. Wh 〈…〉 at in m●nd to keep Posterity might have, Appointing ●ust his course, this privilege he gave, That no man might arrest, or debtors goods might seize In any of us four his military ways. Near five hundred years before this King Mulmutius (take it upon the credit o● the British Story) constituted divers laws; Se●de● in his Illustrations upon the 〈◊〉 verses. especially that Churches, Ploughs, and high ways should have liberties of Sanctuary, by no authority violable. That Churches should be free, and enjoy liberty for refuge, consenting allowance of most Nations have tolerated, and in this kingdom (it being affirmed also by constitution of King Lucius a Christian) every Church yard was a Sanctuary, until by Act of Parliament under Hen. 8. that licence, for protection of offences, being too much abused, was taken away. Of Mulmutius Dunwallo (for so he is sometime called) and his privileges to sacred places, my old Mss. thus further speaks. A king there was in Brutayne Donw●lle was his name, Ro●. Christ Stale worth, and hardy a man of great fam. He ordained first yat thieves yat to Temple slown were No man were so hardy to do 'em despite there; That hath be much such yhold as hit begun tho, Hely Chyrch hit holdyth yut and will ever more. Hereupon he called the Temples which he built, the Temples of peace and concord: one of which was in London, where now Blackwell Hall is, another in Fleet-street, as yet called the Temple Church, wherein (or in some of them) himself, Gorbomannus, and other of the British kings, were interred, as by supposition it is delivered. Lucius, Fl●res. Hist. p●. ●og de 〈◊〉 ●●un. 183. king of the Britain's, having abundantly distributed and given ample possessions, and revenues to Churches and Clergy men, ordained that Churches with their Coemiteries or Churchyards, should have this privilege; that what malefactor soever should thither make flight for his safety, he might there remain without indemnity. Ethelwolfe and Alfred Kings of the Westsaxons, gave the like important privileges to these holy Edifices. Athelstane sole Monarch of the Englishmen, ●eg. A●fr●●i. c. 5. held the memory of john de Beverley, Archbishop of York, so sacred and reverend (for he honoured him as his ●urelar Saint) that he endowed Beverley (the place of the said Archbishop's birth) with many, Camd. in Yorkshire. and those very great privileges, and granted them liberties in these general words. As free make I thee As heart may think, or eye may see. Yea and there was granted unto it the privilege of a Sanctuary, so that Bankrupts and men suspected of any capital crime, worthy of death, might be free and safe there from the danger of the law; in which was erected a chair of stone with this Inscription. This seat of Stone is called Freed stool, that is, the chair of peace, unto which what offender soever flieth, and cometh, hath all manner of Security. Of the Sanctuary at Westminster, first granted by Sebert King of the Eastsaxons, increased by Edgar King of the Westsaxons, and confirmed by the Charter of King Edward the Confessor, I have spoken before. In Leg. Will. Con. Reg. de Hoveden. If any one guilty of offence fly from any place for refuge to the Church, Church-door, to the Parson or Vicar's house, or into any part of his base or inner Court (provided that the said house and courts be within consecrated ground) it shall not be lawful for any to take him from thence, save only the Bishop or some of his Officers. Now if this malefactor be a filching knave, or an highway robber, and be taken with the booty, or if his thievish purchase be altogether exhausted and spent, yet if he have any means otherways of his own, he shall make satisfaction to the party, or parties whom he hath so wronged; and if he still continue to play the thief, and make a custom of this manner of flight to Churches and Priests houses, after restitution made, he shall abjure the country; and if he give not satisfaction to the parties, whose goods he hath taken and purloined, no man shall dare to give him lodging or entertainment, without the kings special licence first obtained. Bracton sol. 132 If a Clergyman be taken for felony, delivered to the Ordinary, and break prison, and fly to the Church for sanctuary or refuge, he shall be taken from thence, and put into the same prison out of which he escaped; for the Church ought not to defend him, nor any public malefactor, Si ad pacem Regis venire noluerit. But stay, for if robbing from other men's works, to embellish my own writings, be an offence, it is high time for me to take Sanctuary: yet give me leave to go a little further in my course, and to speak somewhat, out of other Authors, of the Ecclesiastical state of England, of which you may read more at large in Camden his division of Britain, and know more by Speed in his Type of this flourishing kingdom. Sir Edward C●ke in his Comment. upon Littleton. lib. 2. cap. 6. The Ecclesiastical state of England is divided into two Provinces or Archbishoprics; viz. of Canterbury, and of York. The Archbishop of Canterbury ●s styled, Metropolitanus et Primas totius Angliae; and the Archbishop of York, Primas Angliae. The Archbishop of Canterbury hath under him within his Province, of ancient and late foundations. Rochester his principal Chaplain; London his Dean; Winchester his Chancellor, and all the rest of the Bishoprics, four excepted, viz. Chester, Durham, Carlisle, and the I'll of Man, which are annexed to the archbishopric of York. Every Diocese is divided into Archdeaconries', and the Archdeacon is called Oculus Episcopi, The eye of the Bishop. And every Archdeaconry is parted into Deaneries, and Deaneries again into Parishes, Towns, and Hamlets. The Bishop is called the Ordinary, in the Ecclesiastical Law. Quia habet ordinariam iurisdictionem in iure proprio, et non per deputationem: for that he hath ordinary jurisdiction in his own proper right, and not by deputation, in causes Ecclesiastical. All the Archbishops and Bishops of England have been founded by the Kings of England; and do hold of the King by Barony, and have been all called by writ to the Court of Parliament, and are Lords of Parliament. And the Bishoprics in Wales, were founded by the Princes of Wales; and the Principality of Wales was holden of the King of England, as of his Crown. And the Bishops of Wales are also called by Writ to Parliament, and are Lords of Parliament as Bishops of England be. There were within the Realm of England one hundred and eight●ene Monasteries, founded by the Kings of England, whereof such Abbots and Priors as were founded to hold of the King per Baroniam, and were called to the Parliament by Writ, were Lords of Parliament, and had places and voices there. And of them were twenty six Abbots, and two Priors, as by the Rolls of Parliament appear: yet if you reckon the Abbot of Feversham in Kent, founded by King Stephen, there were twenty and seven, which some do, saith my learned Author, warranted by these words in the Cartularie: Et dedit Abbati, et Monachis, et successoribus●s is Minerium de Feversham, Com. Kane. simul cum Hundredo, etc. tenend. per Baroniam. But (saith he) albeit this Abbot held by a Barony, yet because he was never (that I find) called by Writ, he never sat in Parliament. Bishoprics in England, Cam. l. 〈…〉. with that of the Isle of Man, are 37. whose extents I set down in the passage of this work. Deaneries 26. whereof thirteen were ordained by Henry the eighth, in the greater Cathedral Churches after the Monks were thrust out. Archdeacouries' threesco●●. Dignities and Prebends five hundred forty four. Numbered also there are Parish churches under Bishops 9284 of which 3845. be Appropriate, as I find in a Catalogue, saith he, exhibited to King James. Now, Appropriate Churches, those are called, which by the Pope's authority coming between, with consent of the King, and the Bishop of the Diocese were upon certain conditions tied, or Instruments united, annexed, and incorporate for ever, unto Monasteries, Bishoprics, Colleges, and Hospitals, endowed with small lands, either for that the said Churches were built their Lordships and Lands or granted by the Lords of the said Lands. Which Churches afterwards when the Abbeys and Monasteries were suppressed, became Say Fees, to the great damage of the Church. Henry the eighth, presently upon the suppression of Monasteries, and his ordination of certain Cathedral and Collegiate Churches, set d●wne by the advice of his Counsel, a number of Rules and Statutes to be observed by the Officers and Ministers residing in the same. As appears by this Record following, which I thought to transcribe. Henricus Octaws Dei gracia Anglie, Francie, et Hibernie, Rex, Fidei Defensor, ac in terra supremum Ecclesie Anglicane, et Hibernie caput. Vniversis sancte matris Ecclesie silijs ad quorum noticiam presence Scriptum pervenerit Salutem. Cumet nobis et Regni nostri Preceribus, univer soque Senatui qu●m Parliamentum vocamus visum sit Deo, et confidimus nos huc movente, Monasteria, que passim in regno nostro extabant, tum propter graves, et multiplices illorum enormitates, tum ob alias iustas rationabilesque causas supprimere, ●●olere, et in meliores usus convertere. Nos et diuine voluntati conformius, ●●m●ius ●re Christiana esseducentes, ut ubi ignorantia et superstitio regnabant, ibi sincerus Dei cultus vigeat, et sanctum Christi Euangelium assidue et pure annuncietur: Et preteria ut ad Christiane fidei, ac pietatis incrementum iwentus Regni nostri in bonis literis instituatur, et pauperes perpetuo sustententur; in ipsorum Monasteriorum loco Ecclesias ereximus et cons●ituimus: Quarum alias Cathedrales, alias Collegiatas vocari volumus; pro quarum Ecclesiarum ac Collegiorum gubernaecione et regimine leges et statuta que sequntur prescribend. curavimus, quibus tam Decani et utriusque ordinis Canonici, quam ceteri omnes ministri, pueri et pauperes, qui in ipsis Ecclesijs commoraturi sunt, pareant et ebsequantur, eisque ut à nobis conditis et perfect is regantur et gubernentur. Id quod si fecerint ingens sine pictatis incrementum in hoc regno nostro perventurum esse confidemus; Et nos expectatione 〈◊〉 voto nostro qui ad Dei optumi maximi gloriam ac fidei Christiane augmentum has Ecclesias ereximus, et varijs ministrorum ordinibus enornavimus, ha●d quaquam fraudabimus. Dat. etc. The Statutes, rules and orders were annexed hereunto; which were very many, and more than can conveniently be included in this short Treatise, and more I think then were well performed. As may partly be proved by an Injunction from the Queen's Majesty to the Archbishop of Canterbury, Matthew Parker, in these words. By the Queen. The Queen's Majesty considering how the palaces and houses of Cathedral Churches and Colleges of this Realm have been both of ancient and late time, builded and enclosed in several to sustain and keep Socyeties of learned men professing Study and prayer for the edification of the Church of God; and so consequently to serve the Commonweal. And understanding of late that within the houses hereof, as well the chief Governors as the Prebendaries, Students, and members thereof being married, do keep particular households, with their wives, children, and Nurses, whereof no small offence groweth to th'intent of the Founders, and to the quiet and orderly profession of study and learning within the same, hath thought meet to provide remedy herein, lest by sufferance thereof, the rest of the Colleges, specially such as be replenished with young Students, as the very rooms and buildings be not answerable for such families of women and young children, should follow the like example. And therefore expressly willeth and commandeth, that no manner of person, being either the head or member of any College or Cathedral Church within this 〈◊〉, shall from the time of the notification hereof, in the same College have, or be permitted to have, within the precinct of any such College, his wife or other woman to abide and dwell in the same: or to frequent & haunt any lodging within the said College, upon paint that whosoever shall do to the contrary, shall forfeit all Ecclesiastical promotions in any Cathedral or Collegiate Church within this Realm. And for continuance of this order, her Majesty willeth that the Transcript hereof shall be written in the book of the Statutes of every such College; and shall be reputed as parcel of the Statutes of the same. given under our Signet at ●ur Town of ipswiche, the ninth of August in the third year of our reign. Now Reader if thou wouldst know more particularly the Ecclesiastical State of England, will it please thee read the declaration following. A brief declaration of the number of all promotions Ecclesiastical, of what name or title soever, at the Taxation of the first fruits and tenths, with the yearly value of eiche Bishopric, Deanrie, and Archdeaconry, and the tenth of the Clergy in every Diocese. Valoris Epatuum. Comitatus. Archnatus & valores. Dignit. & Preb. Beneficia. Assaven. 187. l. 11. s. 6. d. Der●igh. Flint. Montgomery. Merioneth. Saloppe. Assaphen. 74. l. 15.7. d. 14. 128. 1.— 1. Bangoren. 131. l. 16. s. 4. d. Cairnarvan. Anglesey. Denbighe. Merioneth. Mountgonery. Bangoren. 48. l. 6. s. 1. d. ob. q. Anglesey. 58. l. 10. s. 6. d. Merioneth. 13. l. 3. s. 4. d. 8. 96. 3.— 1. 1.— 0. Bristollen. 383. l. 8. s. 4. d. Dorset. Dorset. 82. l. 17. s. 7. d. ob. q. 252. 7.— 3. 3.— 2. Bathon & Wellen. 1843. l. 14. s. 5. d. q. 533 l. 15. d. Somerset. Wellen. 144. l. 2. s. 11. d. ob. Bathon 25. l. 15. s. Taunton 83▪ s. 7. s. 8. d. 55. 380. 14.— 5. 6.— 1. Cantuarien. 3233. l. 18. s. 8. d. ob q. 2816. l. 17. s. 9 d. London. Midl. Suff. Essex. Lanc. Buck. Surr. Sussex. Cantuarien. 163. l. 21. d. 282. 18.— 9 3.— 1. Cicestren. 677. l. 15. d. Sussex. Cicestr. 38. l. 3. s. 4. d. Lewen. 39 l. 14. s. 10. d. 35. 285. 1.— 2. 0.— 1. Coventrey et Lichefield. 703. l. 5. s. 2. d. ob. q. 559. l. 18. s. 2. d. ob. q. Staffordshir. Derby. Warwick. Salop. Stafford. 30. l. 16. s. 11. d. Derby. 26. l. 13. s. 4. d. Coven. 45. l. 9 s. Salop. 19 l. 32. 351. 3.— 5. 0.— 1. Cestren. 420. l. 20.0. Cestren. Lanca. Flint. Comberland. Westmoreland. Ebor. Richmond. 50. l. Cestren. 50. l. 202. 11.— 18. 4.— 2. Carliolen. 530. l. 4. s. 11. d. ob. Comberland. Westmoreland. Null. 77. 2.— 5. 1.— 2. Domus Religios. Hospital. Collegia. cantary & Libe. Capelle. Valores' Decanatum Decima Cleri. 8. nul. nul. 5. 65. l. 11. s▪ 4. d. 186. l. 19 s. 7. d. ob. q. 4. nul. 2. 6. 22. l. 17. s. 2. d. 151.14. s 3. d. q. 10. 4. 1. 68 100 353. l. 18 d. ob. q. 22. 2. 1. 96. 117. l. 7. s. 4. d. 600. l. 15. s. 8. d. ob. 17. 8. 5. 89. 200. l. 651. l. 18▪ s. 2. d. q. Cum. 281. l. 13. s. 19 d. q 〈◊〉 Archiepatus iuxta valo●●m. 11. 4. 2. 44. 58. l. 9 s. 4. d. 287. l. 2. s. 1. ob. q. 38. 5. 16. 128. 40. 590.16.12. q. 26. 6. 4. 145. 100 l. 435. l. 12. d. 5. 1. 1. 26. 120. l. 7. s. 6. d. 161. l. 19 d. ob. Valoris Epatuum. Comitatus. Archinatus & valores. Dignit. & Preb. Beneficia. Dunelm. 2821. l. 17. d. q. 1821. l. 17. d. q. Dunelme. Northumber. Dunel. 100 l. Northumb. 36. l. 13. s. 4. d. Null. 107. 6.— 9 2.— 2. Elien. 2134. l. 18. s. 5. d. ob. q. tertia pars q. Cantabridg. Elien. 177. l. 5. s. 2. d. ob. nul. 137. 2.— 0. Eborum. 2035. l. 3. s. 7. d. 1069. l. 19 s. 2. d. q. Eborum: Nottingham. Eborum: 90. l. 3 s▪ Cliveland. 36. l. s. d. Estriding. 62. l. 14. s. 2. d. ob. Nottingham. 61. l. 8. d. ob. 36. 137. 12.— 7. 3.— 1. Exonicum. 1566. l. 14. s. 6. d. 500 l. q. Devon. Cornwall. Exon 60. l. 15 s. 10. d. Cornub. 50. l 6. s. 3 d. ob. Taunton 37. l. 10. s. 3. d. ob. Barnestaple. 48 l. 19 s. 8. d. 29. 546. 49.— 27. 11.— 8. Glocestre. 315. l. 7. s. 2. d. Gloucesters. Gloucest 75. l. 4. s. ob. 4. d. nul. 240. 7.— 3. 3.— 1. Hereford. 768. l. 10. s. 10. d. ob q. Radnar. Heref Salop. Mongomery. Wigorn. Hereford. 41. l. 17. 11. d. Salop. 32. l. 10. s. 9 d. 32. 277. 3.— 1. 0.— 0. London. 1119. l. 8. s. 4. d. London. Midl. Essex. Herteford. Buck. London. 23. l 14. s. 4. d. Midl. 60. l. Essex. 52. l. Colchester 50. S. Albani. in hill. 34. 573. 19— 6. 7.— 0. Lincoln. ●962. l. 17. s. 4. d. ob. 894. l. 18. s. 1. d. ob. Lincoln. Leicestre. Bedford. Bucking. Herteford. Huntingdon. Lincoln. 179. l. 19 s. S●ow. 14. l. 2 s. 8. d. ob. Bedf 57 l. 2. s. 3. d. Buck 8●. l 14. s. 5. d. Hunting. 57 l. 14. s. 2. d. Leicester 80. l. 12. s. 3. d. 59 l. 1219. 31— 12 4.— 2. Landaven 154. l. 14. s. 1. d. Monboth. Glamorgan. Landaven. 38. l. 12. s. 8. d. 13. 153. 0.— 0. Domus Religios. Hospital. Collegia. cantary & Libe. Capelle. Valores' Decanatum Decima Cleri. 18. 8. 5. 96. 266. l. 12. s. 1. d. 385. l. 5. s. 6. d. ob. 10. 1. nul. 29. 120. l. 384. 14. s 9 d. q. 77. 12. 13. 488. 308. l. 10. s. 7. d. 1113. l. 17. s. 9 d ob. q. 22. 1. 6. 47. 158. 1240. l. 15. s. 2. d. ob. 11. 4. 1. 46. 100 l. 358. l. 15 s. 11. 3. nul. 77. 38. l. 6. s. 1. d. ob. 340. l. 5. s. 2. d. ob. 50. 6. 6. 366. 210. l. 12. s. 1. d. 821. l. 15. s. 1. d. 94. 14. 4. 262. 196. l. 10. s. 8. d. 1751. l. 14. s. 6. 11. nul. nul. 17. nul. 155. l. 5. s. 4. d. Valoris Epatuum. Comitatus. Archinatus & valores. Dignit. & Preb. Beneficia. Meneven. 457. l. 22. d. ob. q. Radnor. Cairmarthen. Cardigan. Pembroke. B●echon. Hereford. Glamorgan. Monmouth. Mongomery. Meneven. 56. l. 8. s. 6. d. Cairmarthen. 35. l. 9 s. 6. d. Cardigan. 18. l. Brechon. 40. l. 11. 291. 1.— 2. 0.— 0. Norwicen. 568. l. 19 s. 4. d. ob. 899. l. 18. s. 7. d. q. Suff. Norfolk. Cantab. Norwicen. 71. l. 13. d. ob. Norfolk. ●43. l. 8. s. 2. d ob. Suff. 89. l. 23. d. Sudbury 76. l 9 s. 4. d. ob. nul. 1094. 16.— 2. 2.— 0. Oxonicum. 358. l. 16. s. 4. d. q. 354. Oxon. Oxon. 71. l. 6. s. nul. 167. 2.— 1. 1.— 0. Petriburgh. 414. l. 19 s. 11 d. Northampt. Rutland. Northampt. 107. l. 7. s. Null. 308. 10.— 4. Roffen. 358. l. 3. s. 7. d. q. Lanc. Roffen. 34. l. 13. s. nul. 92. 2.— 0. 0.— 0. Sarum. 1367. l. 11. s. 8. d. Wiltes. Berks. Wiltes. 70. l 12. s. 2. d. Berk●. 71. l. 12. s. q. Sarum. 70. l. 11. s. 8. d. ob. 47. 395. 12.— 3. 2.— 2. Winton. 3885. l. 3. s. 3. d. ob q 2491. l. 9 s. 8. d. ob. 2793. l. 4. s. 7. d. q. q. Southampt. Surrey. Winton. 67. l. 15. s. 2. d. ob. Surrey 91. l. 3. s. 6. d. ob. nul. 353. 14.— 10. 5.— 1. Wigorn. 1049. l. 17. s. 3. d. ob. q. Wigorn. Warwick. Wigorn. 58. l. 9 s. 11. d. nul. 195. ultra 12. Capell in Eu●sham. 1.— 8. 1.— 2. Domus Religios. Hospital. Collegia. cantary & Libe. Capelle. Valores' Decanatum Decima Cleri. 13. 2. 3. 17. nul. 336.14. s 10. d. 52. 5. 11. 87: 102. l. 1117. l. 13. s. ob. 10. 3. 1. 17. 100 l. 255. l. 8. s. 16. 4. 6. 41. 100 l. 520. l. 16. s. 8. d 5. 1. 1. 14. 100 l. 222. l. 14 s. 6. d. ob. q. 19 8. 2. 84. 204. l. 10. s. 901. l. 6. d. ob. 25. 4. 3. 32. 199. l. 13. s. 9 d. 846. l. 12. d. 20. 4. 2. 47. 133. l. 6. s. 8. d. 228. l. Memorandum, That under the title of Benefices in every Diocese is contained in figures two numbers. The first doth show how many be of 30. l. in her Majesty's Records, and under 40 l. The other number how many be of 40. l. value and upwards. And under those figures be other figures which do show how many of them be Vicarages. As for example, in the title of Benefices, in Bathe and Welles, you have 380. Benefices, of them there is 14. of 30. l. value, and under 40. l. and 5. of 40. l. value, and upwards. And of those of 30. l. value, there are 6. Vicarages: and of those of 40. l. 1. Vicarage, as may appear by the figures, and so of the rest. Summe total of all the promotions Spiritual at the Taxation of the first fruits and Tenths. viz. Archbishoprics and Bishop. 0021. Deaneries. 0011. Archdeaconries. 0060. Dignities and Prebends in Cathedral Churches. 0394. Benefices. 8803. Religious Houses. 0605. Hospitals. 0110. Colleges. 0096. Chauntries and free Chapels. 2374. Sum. Totalis 12474. The yearly value of all the said Promotions according to the Rate and Taxation of the first fruits, and tenths, amounteth by estimation to 330180. l. 10. s. 0● d. The yearly tenth of the Clergy amounteth by estimation to 015041. 01. 02. ob. q. The yearly value of the Clergies livings according to the said Tenth is 150410. 12 00 Of the which sum of 450410 l. 12. s. defaulke for the yearly value of the Bishoprickes of Chestre, Oxford, Peeterburgh, Bristol, and Gloucester. Not parcel of the Taxation of first fruits and tenths the sum of 1888. l. 13. s. 4. d. q. and then remaineth 1480511. l. 12 s. q. To the which add for the yearly value of the possessions of the Colleges in both the Universities, and the Colleges of Windsor, Eaton, New College by Winchester and Woluerhampton the sum of 10568. l. 8. s. 4. d ob. parcel of the taxation of firstfruits viz. ● for the possessions of the Colleges in Cambridge, 2762. l. 19 s. ob. in Oxford, 4693. l. 17. s. ob. Windsor, 1396. l. 17. s. 1. d. q. Eaton, 996. l. 12. s. q. New College, 628. l. 13. s. 6. d. and Woluerhampton, 89. l. 9.8. d. and then the sum is 159080. 00 04 ob. q. So there hath been taken from the possessions of the Clergy since the dissolution of Religious Houses, Colleges, and Chauntries hitherto in value by estimation parcel of the said 320180. l. 10. s. to temporal uses. 161100. 09 07▪ q. After the dissolution of the Religious Houses, Henry the eighth erected these six Bishoprics, to wit, Westminster, Chester, Peterburgh, Oxford, Bristol, and Gloucester, whereof the five last are in esse. And at the same time he erected also these Cathedral Churches, hereafter mentioned, wherein he founded a Dean, and the number of Prebends following. (viz.) Cantuarien. 12. Winton. 12. Wigorn. 10. Cestren. 06. Peterburgh. 06. Oxon. 06. Elien. 08. Gloucestre. 06. Bristol. 06. Carlioll. 04. Dunelm. 12. Roffen. 06. Norwicen. 06. The yearly value of the said Cathedral Churches newly erected with the Collegiate Churches of Windsor, Westminster, and Woluerhampton over and besides the petticanons and other inferior Ministers amounteth by estimation, 5942. 08. 02. So the yearly value of the Clergies Living, together with the said sum of 150410. l. 12. s. over and besides the Colleges in the Universities, and of Eaton, and New College aforesaid, amounteth by estimation to 156253. 00. 02. There are Parsonages appropriate in England according to my collection, whereof there be Vicarages endowed over and besides divers Personages, whereof there is no endowment of Vicarages, (viz.) 003236. 00. All which Parsonages of right belonging to the Altar, and should be the proper living of ●he Clergy, a few only excepted, which belong to Bishoprics, Cathedral Churches, and the Colleges before mentioned, remain in the Laities hands, which if you esteem one with another after 40 l. amount to the sum of 129440 00 00 Besides all this, if search and examination were made throughout England, it would be found that the most part of the best livings remaining in the possession of the Clergy in every Diocese, either by Leases confirmed, corrupt Aduousanes, or by the iniquity of Patrons and unlearned Ministers, remain also in the Laities hands. The first sum under every Bishopric is the original value at the taxation of first-fruits and tenths: the other sum is the value now remaining of Record for the payment of firstfruits. Sithence the taxation of first-fruits and tenths there hath been taken from Bishopprickeses in value with 140 l. for the decay of the faculties (viz.) 06894 04 09 There are Parsonages to the number of 41 made appropriate sithence the taxation of firstfruits and tenths, which amount to the yearly value of (viz.) 01663 14 09 q. The College of Llandewy breevie in the Diocese of S. David's having a Chauntership and 13 Prebends was lately taken away, amounting to the sum of 00148 05 09 Memorandum, that the tenth of the Clergy in some Dioceses, as London, Chichester, Hereford, Worcester, and others, is more than is expressed in the title of Tenth; for there the tenth is set down, as it is chargeable to her Majesty: the rest is allowed in lieu of certain Lands taken away from the Bishopprickeses: Canterbury and Elie have the tenth allowed wholly, saving that Canterbury yieldeth an account of 9 l. 2. s. 1. d. The number of Benefices as is above mentioned is 8803. Here ends the Discourse. ANCIENT FUNERAL MONUMENTS WITHIN THE Diocese of Canterbury. The Foundation of Christ-Church in Canterbury. CHristian Religion (of which I have spoken before) which presently after our blessed Saviour's passion, was both preached, and planted in this Island, by joseph of Arimathea, and his associates, and after that advanced, and increased by Lucius King of the Britain's, and his famous Clerks; being darkened, overclouded, and almost totally eclipsed, with the contagious smoke arising from such abominable sacrifices as were offered here unto strange Idols; was again illumined, and recomforted with the glorious beams of religious light by Augustine the Monk, and his fellowlabourers in Christ's vineyard. Which Augustine (sent hither from Rome by Gregory the great) when he had found such favour in the sight of King Ethelbert, that he might freely preach the Gospel in this his country; he chose for assembly and prayer, an old Church in the East part of this City, which was a long time before builded by the Romans, and he made thereof (by licence of the King) a Church, for himself and his successors, dedicating the same to the name of our blessed Saviour Christ; whereof it was always afterward called Christ-Church. And by the means of the said Pope Gregory, he translated the Metropolitan See from London (the Cathedral Church being then at Saint peter's in Cornhill) to this his newly consecrated Church here in Canterbury: whereof he was the first Archbishop. By these proceedings the prophecy of Merlin was fulfilled, which foretold that Christianity should fail, and then revive again, when the See of London did adorn Canterbury. Of which out of an old * Robert of Gloucester. Manuscript these following Rhymes. Erchebysshop first of all saint Austyn was there; But ye Erchcbysshops See at London was ere: Tho camme Merlynes word to sooth atten end, Yat ye dignyte of London to Canterbery should wend. Anothur church in Cantyrbery he let rear, Yat is clupyd Christ Chyrche, and now the Se. is there. Since which time, this sacred structure, by the pious and exceeding charges of succeeding Archbishops (by the devotion of those days made willing to disburse great sums) is so raised aloft (saith learned Camden) to that majesty and stateliness, Camd. in Kent. that it striketh a sensible impression of Religion in the hearts and minds of the beholders; of which, as also of the City, will it please you read this Ogdoasticon out of a Manuscript penned by john johnston of Aberden, sometimes the King's professor of Divinity in the University of S. Andrew's in Scotland. M●ss. in ●ib. 〈…〉 Quae minima in paruo regno pars ante fuisti, Facta es Cantiadum regia prima Ducum. Quae modica in magno imperio pars ante fuisti, Maiorem fecit Pontificalis honour. Alterius cum iura locitecum inde tulisti, Facta es finitimis imperiosa locis. Sponsa tibi Christi si tot cumulavit honores Non iterum huic par sit reddere velle suos? To this his Church Austin adjoined a Monastery, The foundation of the Priory of S. Trinity. and dedicated the same to the blessed Trinity; into which Laurence, his next Successor, brought Benedictine Monks; the head whereof was called a Prior. Which word (saith Lambard in his perambulation of Kent) howsoever it soundeth, was indeed but the name of a second Officer, because the Bishop himself was accounted the very Abbot; for in old time, the Bishops were, for the most part, chosen out of such Monasteries, and therefore most commonly had their palaces near adjoining, and governed there as Abbots. By means whereof it came to pass, that such Abbeys were greatly enriched, and endowed with wealth and possessions; insomuch that this Priory at the dissolution (being valued at Robin Hoods pennyworths) was found to be yearly worth (besides jurisdiction over diue●s hundreds) (as you may find in the Exchequer book, called, Nomina Villarum) two thousand four hundred eighty nine pounds four shillings nine pence. But Henry the eighth (saith Cambden) scattered this wealth heaped up together in so many ages, and dispersed these Monks: in lieu of whom he placed in this Church a Deane, an Archdeacon, Prebendaries twelve, and six Preachers; who in places adjoining round about, should teach and preach the word of God. The Archbishopric, at this day (whose Province containeth twenty two Bishoprickes, Godwin. de prasid Angl and Diocese the greatest part of Kent) being but valued in the King's books at two thousand eight hundred sixteen pounds, seventeen shillings, nine pence. Howsoever in former times the Archbishop was wont to pay to the Pope at every income for his first-fruits ten thousand Ducats or Florins; and for his Pall five thousand, every Ducat being of our Sterling money four shillings six pence. And (as I find it in an old Manuscript) for Rom-scot or Peter-pences, Lib. 〈◊〉 in lib 〈◊〉. seven pounds seventeen shillings. Seventie three Archbishops in a continued train of Succession, have sitten in this glorious chair; which at this present doth add grace and honour to George Abbot, Doctor of Divinity, sometime Deane of Winchester, Master of the University College in Oxford, Bishop of Coventry and Lichfield, from whence he was removed to London, and from thence translated to this Metropolitical seat of Canterbury. Who hath bestowed great sums of money in building and endowing of an Hospital at Guildford in Surrey, the Town wherein he was borne. But now to come within the Cathedral Church; which hath been, and still is, 〈…〉 Archbishop honoured with the funeral Monuments of many renowned Princes; of which although it may justly vaunt, yet was it for nothing else so famous, as for the life, death, sepulcure, and Shrine of Thomas Beck●t Archbishop of this See; by which her estimation was advanced beyond all reason, measure and wonder. This Thomas Becket was borne in London, his father's name was Gilbert, a Merchant, his mother's M●tilda, a stranger borne in Syria. He was first taught and brought up, by the Prior of Mercon Abbey in Surrey, and from thence sent to the Universities of Oxford, Paris, and Bononia, to study the Canon Law; upon his return, he proceeded Doctor of that faculty in Oxford; after which (as you may have it in the History of his life, written by the right reverend Father in God, Francis Godwin, now Bishop of Hereford) in short time he was preferred by Theobald, Archbishop of this See, unto the Archdeaconry of Canterbury, the Provostship of Beverley, and the Parsonages of Bromfeeld, and Saint Mary Hill: a Prebend in Paul's, and another in the Church of Lincoln, and withal commended by him so effectually to King Henry the second, that he received him into the number of his Chaplains, advanced him to the honour of Lord Chancellor of England, and (after the death of the said Theobald) to this Grace, and Primacy of Canterbury: presently after his consecration, being yet scarcely warm in his seat, under colour of defending the rights of his Church, he stubbornly opposed himself against his Lord and Sovereign in all his royal proceedings, insomuch that he was constrained to exile him the kingdom. Of which you shall hear a piece out of Harding in the life of Henry the second. He exiled then, Hard. cap. 31. Thomas of Cauntorbury Out of England, and many of his alliance, For cause of his rebellious governance; And as he came fro Rome by France away With language fell, he prayede the King that day The points to mend. And now, if you will give me leave a little to digress; I will tell you a tale (believe it as you lift) reported by the said Thomas Becket himself, how that being in banishment, our blessed Lady gave him a golden Eagle, full of precious ointment, enclosed in a stone vessel, commanding him to preserve it; foretelling withal, that the kings of England, which should be therewith anointed, should be strong champions, and stout defendours of the Church that they should be bountiful, benign, and fortunate, and that they should peaceably recover such lands or territories, as had been before lost by their predecessors; so long as they had this Eagle, with the vial or sacred vessel in their custody, telling him withal, that he should be a Martyr. This vision happened to him (forsooth) at Sens in France, in the Nun's Church consecrated to Saint Columbe, in which City he found Pope Alexander the third, a man, like himself, of an ambitious and turbulent ●ierie spirit, into whose bosom, saith Hollinshead, he emptied whole cartload of complaints and grievances, like a contumacious rebel, against his sovereign Lord: excommunicating and cursing with bell, book, and candle, all that did any way adhere unto the king's party. But now to return to the words, by which he did express his strange and incredible apparition, which I will set down in the same language, as I found them anciently written in the Lieger book of the Abbey of whaley in Lanchishire. Thus he begins. Quando ego Thomas Cantuar. Archiepiscopus, exul ab Anglia, fugie bam ad Franciam, veni ad Papam Alex. qui tunc Senonis erat, ut ei ostenderem malas consuetudines, & abusiones quas Rex Anglie in Ecclesiam in troducebat. A 〈…〉 wholly ●end●ing 〈◊〉 own purpose. Quadam nocte cum essem in Ecclesia Sancte Columbe in Monial. rogavi Reginam Virginum ut daret Regi Anglie et hered. propositum et voluntatem emendandi se erga Ecclesiam, et quod Christus pro sua miserecordia, ampliori dilectione ipsum faceret diligere Ecclesiam. Statim apparuit mihi beata Virgo, habens in pectore istam aquilam auream, sive lapideam, & accipiens Aquilam de pectore suo ampullam includit. Aquilam cum Ampulla in manu mea posuit, et hec verba per ordinem dixit. Ista est unctio per quam Reges Anglie debent inungi; non isti qui modo sunt & regnant, & regnabunt, quia maligni sunt, & propter peccata sua multa amiserunt, & amitterent. Sunt autem Reges Anglie futuri qui inungerentur vnctione benigni, & pugiles Ecclesie erunt. Nam isti terram amissam à parentibus pacisice recuperabunt, donec Aquilam cum Ampulla habeant. Est autem Rex Anglorum futurus qui primo mungeretur vnctione ista, qui terram amissam à parentibus scilicet Normanniam, Aquitaniam, recuperabit sine vi; Rex iste erit maximus inter Reges, & est ille qui edificabit multas Ecclesias in terra sancta, & fugabit omnes Paganos de Babylon, & in ●adem Ecclesias edi●icabit plures, quotiescunque Rex portabit Aquilam in pectore, victoriam habebit de inimicis suis, & regnum eius semper augmentabitu●, tu autem es Martyr futurus. Tunc rogavi beatam Virginem, ut ostenderet mihi ubi custodirem tam preciosum Sanctuarium, que dixit mihi, est vir in civitate isla Willielmus Monachus Sancti Cipriani Pictavie eiectus iniuste ab Abbate suo de Abbachia sua, qui rogat Papam ut Abbatem suum compellat, ut eum in Abbachiam suam reducat: trade sibi Aquilam cum Ampulla, ut eam ad Civitatem Pictauie portet, et in Ecclesia Sancti Gregorij, que est iuxta Ecclesiam Sancti Hillarij eam abscondat in capite Ecclesie versus occidentem sub lapide magno, ibi invenietur in tempore oportuno et erit unctio Regum Anglorum. Henry the first Duke of Lancaster, under Edward the third in the wars of France, had it delivered to him by an holy man (say they) which found it by revelation. But of this enough, if not too much. This Archbishop Becket, being recalled from exile, and restored to his former honours and revenues, carried himself more obstinately than before, perturbing the whole State with curses and excommunications in maintaining of Ecclesiastical liberties (as he pretended) but most of all this kind of dealing grieved the King, who cursed the time that ever he made him Archbishop. Which is thus explained in old rhymes. For which the King was with him sore displeased; That then he said, john 〈…〉 ● had I had men that meant Mine honest, I were not thus diseased With such a Clerk, thus grieved and uneased. It happened (amongst other) four Knights to be present at this speech of the King, namely, Reynald Fitz●vrse, Hugh Moruill, William Tracy, and Richard Briton; who gathered thereby, that they should do a deed very acceptable unto him, Math. West. if they killed the Archbishop. Whereupon (without either warrant or privity of their Sovereign) they posted into England; came with their swords drawn into this his own Church, and therein most barbarously murdered him with many blows, upon Tuesday the 28. of December, Ann. Dom. 1170. as saith Mat. Paris, who in the same place observes that many remarkable occurrences behappened this Martyr ever upon the Tuesday, more than upon any other day in the week. Mars secundum poetas (saith he) Deus belli nuncupatur: vita Sancti Thome (secundum illud job, vita hominis militia est super terram) tota suit contra hostem bellicosa: passus fuit die Martis et translatus die Martis. Die Martis sederunt Principes adversus eum apud Northampton. Die Martis actus est in exilium. Die Martis apparuit ei Dominus apud Pontiniacum, dicens, Thoma, Thoma, Ecclesia mea glorificabitur in sanguine tuo. Et die Martis reversus est ab exilio. Martyrij palmam die Martis est adeptus. Et Die Martis Anno 1220. venerabile eius corpus gloriam translationis suscepit, anno 50. post passionem eius. In English as followeth. Mars according to the Poets, is called the God of war; the life of Saint Thomas (according to that of job, the life of man is a warfare upon earth) was a continual conflict against the enemy; upon the Tuesday he suffered, upon Tuesday he was translated, upon Tuesday the Peers of the Land sat in council against him at Northampton. Upon Tuesday he was banished; upon Tuesday the Lord appeared to him at Pontiniacke, saying, Thomas, Thomas, my Church shall be glorified in thy blood. Upon Tuesday he returned from exile, upon Tuesday he got the palm or reward of martyrdom, and upon Tuesday the year 1220. his venerable body received the glory and renown of translation, in the fiftieth year after his passion. But to return. Rog. Hoveden. Annal. in 〈◊〉. Hen. 2. It is said that these four knights despairing to obtain the King's pardon, wandered up and down (for a time) like vagabonds and runagates upon the earth; being hstefull to all their kindred, as well as to their countrymen, until at length they resolved to go a pilgrimage to Rome, where Pope Alexander the third enjoined them this penance, which was to travel to jerusalem, and there to live as penitenciall convertites in the black mountain; where they finished their days; and were buried in Jerusalem before the door of the Temple, for whom this inscription was framed. Hic iacent miseri qui martirizaverunt beatum Thomam Archiepiscopum Cantuariensem. Id●m. Of these four Knights which murdered this Archbishop, and of the three Bishops which conspired together against him, I found these Hexa●i●ers in an old Manuscript in Sir Robert Cottons Library. Quatuor hij proceres Reginaldus Filius Vrsi, Hugo de Morvilla, Willelmus que Tracensis, 〈◊〉 Brito Thomam necuere beatum▪ Hij tres G●lfridus qui primus Eliacensis, Gilbertus Foliot qui Presul Londoniensis, Amborum complex Sarum Presul jocelinus, Aduersus Thomam conspiravere beatum. The body of this murdered Bishop was buried first in the undercrost of the Church, but shortly after it was taken up and laid in a most sumptuous Shrine in the East end; at the charges of Stephen Langton his successor: being matriculated by the Pope a glorious Saint and Martyr. To this new shrined Martyr, people of all degrees, and from all parts, flocked in pilgrimage: as Chaucer thus hath it in his Prologue to his Canterbury tales. — fro every shires end Of england, to Canterbury they wend: The holy blissful Martyr for to seek, That hem hath holpen where they were seek. Eras. ●●alogue. They loaded the Shrine with such large offerings, that the Church did all round about abound with more than Princely riches, whose meanest part was pure gold, garnished with many precious stones. Whereof the cheesest was a Regal of France, or a rich gem, offered by King Lewis, who asked, 〈◊〉. La●d. 〈◊〉. and obtained (you may be sure, he buying it so dear) that no passenger betwixt Dover and Whitesand, should perish by shipwreck. Such pressing there was to touch him, and such creeping and kneeling to his Tomb, that the prints of their devotion in the marble stones remain to this day. Every pillar resounding the miracles of this reputed Martyr, and the Church itself, dedicated to Christ, forced to give place to the name of Saint Thomas. Er●sin. in O●al. de perego. religions ergo. His blood was as then almost matched in virtue with our blessed Saviour's, and his old shoe devoutly kissed by all passengers. The building of this shrine is thus briefly described by that painful Antiquary Io. Stow. Stow Annal in 〈◊〉 H. 8. It was built (saith he) about a man's height all of stone, then upward of Timber plain, within the which was a chest of iron, containing the bones of Thomas Becket, Skull, and all, with the wound of his death, and the piece cut out of his skull laid in the same wound. The timber work of this Shrine on the out side was covered with plates of gold, damasked and embossed with wires of gold, garnished with broochs, images, Angels, chains, precious stones, and great orient pearls, the spoil of which Shrine (in gold and jewels of an inestimable value) silled two great chests, one of which, six or eight strong men could do no more than convey out of the Church: all which was taken to the King's use, and the bones of Saint Thomas (by commandment of the Lord Cromwell) were then and there burned all to ashes. Which was in September, the year 1538. Hen. 8.30. diverse Epitaphs were composed to the memory of this much honoured Martyr, expressing the cause, time, and place of his martyrdom. For example. Annus Millenus, Hoveden in 〈◊〉 H. 2. centenus, septuagenus Primus erat, Primas quo ruit ense Thomas. Pro Christi sponsa, Christi sub tempore, Christi In Templo, Christi verus amat●r obit. Quis moritur? Presul. Cur? pro grege. qualiter? Ense. Quando! natali. Quis locus? ara Dei. Quinta dies Natalis erat; Flos orbis ab orbe Carpitur; et fructus incipit esse Poli. Henricus natus Matildis regna tenebat, Sub quo Sacratus Thomas mucrone cadebat. This Anthem was likewise made to his honour. Tu per Thome sanguinem quem pro te impendit, Fac nos Christe scandere quo Thomas as●endit. For the blood of Thomas which he for thee did spend Grant us Christ to climb where Thomas did ascend. The Pope writ to the Clergy of England, to make a new Holiday for this late Martyr, an extract or clause whereof followeth. We admonish you all, and by the authority which we reteune, do straightly charge you, that you celebrate the day of the suffering of the blessed man Thomas, the glorious Martyr, sometime Archbishop of Canterbury, every year in most solemn sort, and that with devout prayers ye endeavour yourselves to purchase forgiveness of sins: that he which for Christ's sake suffered banishment in this life, and martyrdom in death by constancy of virtue, through continual supplication of faithful people, may make intercession for you to God. The tenor of these letters were scarcely read, but every man with a loud voice began to recite and sing, Te Deum laudamus. Furthermore, because his Suffragans had not exhibited due reverence to him their father, either in time of his banishment, or at his return from the same, but rather persecuted him; that they might openly confess their error and wickedness to all men, they made this Collect. Be favourable good Lord to our supplication and prayer, A Collect devised in honour of Archbishop Becket. that we which acknowledge ourselves guilty of iniquity, may be delivered by the intercession of Thomas thy blessed Martyr and Bishop. Amen. This Collect was likewise used by the Covent of S. Albon, and other Religious Votaries upon the day of his martyrdom. Robert the first Earl of Dreux, and the fourth son of Lewis the gross, King of France, laid the foundation of a Collegiate Church, to the honour of this supposed holy Martyr, called, S. Thomas du Lowre in Paris, the revenues whereof were augmented by his wife Agnes, Countess of Bray, and confirmed by the Bull of Clement the third, Bishop of Rome, in these terms. Clemens Episcopus seruus seruorum Dei, Dilectis filijs Canonicis Ecclesie sancti Thome de Lowrea salutem et Apostolicam benedictionem. justis pe●entsum desiderijs facilem nos convenit prebere consensum, et vota que à rationis tramite non discordant, eff●ctu prosequente complere. Ea propter dilecti in Domino silij, precibus inclinati nobilis femine Comitisse Braye, possessiones et redditus à Roberto Comi●e quondam marito suo ab ipsa et liberis eius in ●lecmosynam Ecclesie vestre con●essos. Scilicet Curiam, in qua erant edificata stabula, ut ibi construeretur Hospitale: Partem Virgulti (vulgo du verger) inter Hospitale & Canonicos attingentis, A claustro quod est ante tanuam Ecclesie, usque ad extremitat●m muri, et redditus ad sustentationem quatuor Canonicorum sacer dotum manentium in decimis de Triciaco, Calliaco, et de Braya. Et centum solidos Parisiensis monete apud villam novam Sancti Georgij annuatim in festo Sancti Remigij persoluendos. Vineam etiam et arpentum terre, queiacent extra muros predicti loci Sancti Thome (sicut corum scripto autentico continetur) Ecclesie vestre auctoritate Apostolica confirmamus, & presertis scripti patrocinio communuimus. Statuentes, ut nulli omnino hominum liceat hanc paginam nostre confirmationis infringere, vel ei ausu temerario contraire. Si quis autem hoc attemptare presumps●rit; indignationem omnipote●tis Dei, et Beatorum Petri et Pauli Apostolorum eius se noverit incursurum. Datum Laterani septimo Kalendas Augusti, Pontisicatus nostri anno secundo. Annoque Domini Millesimo centesimo octuagesimo nono. These donations were afterwards, viz. Ann. 1428. augmented by john Duke of Britain, Montefort, and Richmund, as appears by his Charter which I have read. Many other religious structures, Churches, Chapels, and Oratories in foreign parts were erected, and endowed to the memory of this our English Martyr. Near to the Gallery of the Lowre, and adjoining to the Collegiate Church, is a pretty fair street, which at this day is called, La rue de S. Thomas du Lowre, the street of S. Thomas at the Lowre. Knights of the order of S. Thomas▪ Richard the first, King of England, after the surprisal of Acrres, instituted an order of Knights, which he called, The Order of Saint Thomas; they held the rule of Saint Augustine, and took for their Patron the foresaid Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury, as you may read in the Theatre of Honour, lib. 9 cap. 11. But I stand too long gazing and glozing upon this imaginary monument, digressing from the brevity of that method which I have proposed to myself. Let me view the sumptuous monument still remaining of Edward surnamed the black Prince (so bynamed not of his colour, but of his dreaded acts in battle) upon which this Epitaph is inlaid with brass. Cy gist le noble Prince Mouss Edward, aisnez filz du tresnoble Roy Edward tiers: iadis Prince d'aquitaine et de Gales, Due de Cornwaille, et counte de Ces●●e, qi morust, e● la feste de la Trinite qestoit le vni iour de ivyn l'an de grace mil troiscens septante sisine. Lalme de qi Dieu eit mercy. Amen. Tu qi passez ove bouche close, Par la ou ce corpse repose, Intent ce qe te diray: Sycome te dire le say. Come tu es au tiel fu, Tu seras tiel come ie su. De la mort ne pensai ie mie, Tant come iavoy la vie. En tre avoi grand richesse Sont icy this grand noblesse Terre Mesons et grand tresor Draps, chivaux, argent et or Mes o'er so jeo pours et chetifs Perfond en la tre gis. Ma grand beaute est tout alee, Ma char est tout gastee. Noult est estroit ma meson; En moy na sy verity non. Et si ore me veisses, je ne quide pas qe vous deisses. Qe ie eusse onges home este Sy so ie ore tant changee. Pur dieu priez au celestien Poy Qe mercy ait de barme de moy. Tour ceulx qi pur moy prieront. On a dieu maccorderont: Dieu les mette en son Paraydis Ou nul ne Poet estre chetifs. Thus Englished. Here lieth the noble Prince, Monsieur Edward, the eldest son of the thrice noble King Edward the third, in former time Prince of Aquitaine, and of Wales, Duke of Cornwall, and Earl of Chester, who died on the feast of Trinity, which was the eight day of june, in the year of Grace, 1376. To the soul of whom, God grant mercy. Amen. Who so thou be that passeth by; Where these corpse entombed lie: Understand what I shall say, As at this time speak I may. Such as thou art, sometime was I, Such as I am, such shalt thou be. I little thought on th'hour of death, So long as I enjoyed breath. Great riches here I did possess, Whereof I made great nobleness. I had gold, silver, wardrobes, and Great treasure, horses, houses, land: But now a caitiff poor am I, Deep in the ground, lo here I lie. My beauty great is all quite gone, My flesh is wasted to the bone. My house is narrow now and throng, Nothing but Truth comes from my tongue: And if ye should see me this day, I do not think but ye would say, That I had never been a man; So much altered now I am. For God's sake pray toth'heauenly King, That he my soul to heaven would bring. All they that pray and make accord, For me unto my God and Lord; God place them in his Paradise, Wherein no wretched caitiff lies. The death of this Prince (which fortuned in the forty and sixth year of his age) was a heavy loss to the state; S. Daniel. Hist. of England. being a Prince of whom we never heard any ill, never received other note then of goodness, and the noblest performances that magnanimity and wisdom could ever show, in so much as what praise can be given to ve●●ue is due to him: The compendious Chronicle of Canterbury written by one Thomas Haselwood, Mss. in bib. Cot. a Canon of Leedes speaks more particularly of his military achievements in these words. Edwardus filius Edw. 3. primogenitus, Princeps Wallie fortunatissimus, & miles in bello audacissimus, inter validissima bella gesta militaria, magnisice ab eodem peracta; johannem Regem Francie apud Poyteires debellavit, & pluribus, tam nobilibus quam aliis, de dicto regno captis, & interfectis, eundem Regem captivauit, & ipsum potenter in Augliam ductum Patri suo presentavit. Henricum etiam intrusorem Hispanie, potentissime in bello devicit, & Petrum Hispanie Regem dudum à regno suo expulsum potenti virtute in regnum suum restituit. Vnde propter ingentem sibi probitatem, & actus ipsius triumphales memoratum Principem inter regales Regum memorias dignum duximus commendandum. Hen●y the fourth King of England. Here lieth the body of Henry the fourth, King of England, whose Tomb is richly adorned and garnished about with the Arms of all the Christian Princes, and most of the greatest Peers of this kingdom, then living; upon which I find no Inscription, who died 20. Mar. Anno Dom. 1412. aetat. 46. Reg. 14. This King finished his politic and victorious reign in peace and honour. Howsoever the injustice of his first entrance (stepping into the seat Royal by the deposition and murder of his lawful Sovereign King Richard the second) left a dishonourable stain upon all his actions. He advised his Son Henry (after him King) upon his death bed, to punish the oppressors of his people: Speed in vita Hen. ●. for so shalt thou (quoth he) obtain favour of God, and love and fear of thy subjects, who whiles they have wealth, so long shalt thou have their obedience, but made poor by oppressions, will be ready for insurrections. Let this memorial of him, in such rhymes as I have it, stand for his Epitaph. Aftur * After Richard the second. him reigned than The iiii Harry that doughty man At Westminstre crowned he was, Where of all Engelond made solas. In his time was a blessing Star, Addition to Rob. of Glo. That all men might see right far Walis was rebel, but naught for thy, For owyn Glendor was the cause truly. A doughty man he was, and wise, In every battle he had the prize. At battle of Sheresbury truly, Off his enemyse he had the victory. He reigned here * Xiii. years and six months wanting 5. days. Vp●dig. Ncus●. almost xiiii year, And to Canterbury men him bear. Another of his reign, his death and government, thus rhymes. This king died of his reign in the year fourteen accounted, of March the nineteen day, Io. Harding cap. 210. The sunday was then by Kalendre. Of whom the realm great joy at first had ay, But afterward they loved not his array: At his beginning, full hie he was commend With commons then, and also little at the end. Io. Gower in the last part of his Tripartite Chronicle gives us this various Character following of this Henry, and his predecessor Richard the second, Kings. O quam pensando mores variosque notando, Si bene scrutetur R. ab H. distare videtur. Mss. in bib. Cot. Clarus sermone tenebrosus et intus agone. R. pacem fingit, dum mortis federa stringit, Duplex cautelis fuit R. Pius H. que fidelis R. Pestem mittit, mortem pius H. que remittit. R. Plebem taxat, taxas pius H. que relaxat. R. proceres odit et eorum predia rodit. H. favet heredes que suas restaurat in edes. R. regnum vastat vindex & in omnibus astat. Mulcet terrorem pius H. que reducit amorem, O Deus Henrico quem diligo quem benedico; Da regnum tutum nulla gravitate volutum, Vite presentis pariter viteque sequentis: Da sibi quodcunque felicius est ad utrunque. Vide●is in Chancerum. fol. 316. ult. edit. The same Author in another place, to the laud and memory of this King, hath these nicking Hexameters. Electus Christi pie Rex Henrice fuisti, Qui bene venisti, cum propria regna petisti, Tu mala vicisti que bonis bona restituisti, Et populo tristi nova gaudia contribuisti, Est mihi spes lata, quod adhuc pro te renovata Succedent fata veteri probitate beata. Et tibi nam grata gratia sponte data. And the said Gower makes a ballad to this king, to his no little commendations. Whereof take the first Stanza for an Essay. O noble worthy King Henry the feareth, In whom the glad Fortune is befall: The people to govern here upon earth, God hath thee chosen in comfort of us all. The worship of this land, which was dounfall, Now stant upright through grace of thy goodness. Which every man is hold for to bless. Caxton the continuer of Polychronicon, saith, that this King Henry the fourth found great riches, whereof Richard his predecessor was possessed at the time of his resignation of the Sceptre royal. These are the words: Thenne he fond in King Rychads' treasury nine hundred thousand nobles besides jewels and Vessels, Poly. 〈…〉. cap. ●0. which was as much worth or more. And there was found in the Tresorers keeping of england an hundred and thirty thousand nobles; and jewels and Vessels as much worth or more: Upon which, saith Fabian, It should seem that King Rycharde was rich, Fab in Ann. 1400. when his money and jewels amounted to seven hundred thousand pounds. Sir Simon D'ewes' Knight, a diligent searcher of Antiquities, gave me the copy of King Henry's Will, here entombed, examined by the original under the privy Seal, according to the orthography in the said original: which is not unworthy, I hope, of my Readers perusal. The last Will of King Henry the fourth. In the name of God Fadir, and Son, and holy Ghost, three persons and on God. ay Henry, sinful wretch, be the graze of God King of england, and of France, and Lord of ireland, being in mine hole mind make my Testament in manner and form that sueth. First I bequeatheth to almighty God my sinful Soul; the which had never be worthy to be man but through his mercy and his graze; which life I have mispendyd, whereof I put me whollily in his graze and his mercy, with all mine heart. And what tim hit liketh him of his mercy for to taken me to him, the body for to be buried in the Chirch of Caunterbury, after the discretion of my Cousin the Erchbyshcoppe of Caunterbury. And also I thank all my Lordis and true people for the true servise that they have done to me. and Yask 'em forgiveness if ● have missentreted 'em in any wise. And als far as they have offended me in words or in de●is in any wise, I pray God forgeve 'em hit and Y do, Also Y device and ordain that there be a chauntre perpetual of twey Precitis for to sing and pray for my soul in the aforseyd chirch of Caunterbury, in such please and after such ordinaunse as hit seemeth best to my aforse●d cousin of Canterbury. Also Y ordain and devose that of my goodors restitution be made to all hem that Y have wrongfully grieved, or any good had of theirs without just title. Also I will and ordain that of my goodis all my debtis be all paid in all hast possible, and that my servants be rewarded after there need, and desert of service: and in especial, ●●lkin, john Warren, and William Thorpe, Grooms of my chambre. Also Y will that all those that be bond in eny debt that Y owe in eny wise, or have undyrtake to eny man for eny debt that Y owe, or that they can dwlye show hit, that all such persons be kept harmlysse. Also I will that a ● sees and wages that are not paid to be paid, and in especial to my servants of my household, before eny oder. And also that all mine Annuityes, fees, and donations granted by me byfor this tim be my letters patents, be kept and paid after the effect of the foresaid letters patents; and yn especial to all hem that have been true servants to me and toward me always. Also Y will and pray my Son that he have recomendyd Thomas de l● crois, that hath well and truly served me, and also in the same wise, jacob Raysh and Halley. Also I will that the Queen be endowyd of the Duche of Lancastre. Also I will that all my Officers both of household and other, the which needeth to have pardon of eny thing that touch here offices both of loss and oder thing, they have pardon thereof in semblable mancre, as y of my graze have bewont to do before this tim. And for to execute this Testament well and trulich for great tryst that I have on my Son the Prince, Y ordain and make him my Executor of my Testament foreseyd, kalling to him such as him thinkyth in his discretion that can and will labour to the sonrest speed of my will comprehended in this mine Testament. And to fulfil truly all things foresaid I charge my foresaid Son upon my blessing. Wetnessing my well-beloved Cousins, Thomas Erchbyshop of Caunterbury foreseyde and Edward Duke of York, Thomas Bishchop of Duresme, Richard the Lord Grey my Chamberlain, john Tiptost mine Treasurer of england, john Prophet Wardeine of my privy seal; Thomas Erpingham, john Norbery, Robert Warerton, and many oder being present. In witnessing whereof my privy Seel be my commandment is set to this my Testament. I give at my manner of Grenwich the xxi. they of the month of januer, the year of our Lord, M. CCCC.VIII. and of our Reign the tenth. He departed this world the twentieth of March, as aforesaid, some three years and odd months after the making of this his last Will and Testament, in a Chamber belonging to the Abbot of Westminster, called jerusalem, having been prophetically foretold that he should die in jerusalem. The words, saith Harding, that the King said at his death, were of high complaint, but nought of repentance, of usurpement of the Realm, ne of restorement of right heirs to the Crown. Which he thus versifies. O Lord, he said, O God omnipotent, Now see I well thy godhead loveth me, That suffered never my foes to have their intent Of mine person in mine adversity: Ne in mine sickness, ne in mine infirmity: But ay hast kept it fro their malevolence, And chastised me by thy benevolence. Lord I thank the with all my heart, With all my soul, and my spirits clear; This worms meet, this carrion full unquerte, That some time thought in world it had no peer, This face so foul that leprous doth appear, That here afo●e I have had such a pride To purtray oft in many place full wide. Of which right now the poorest of this land, Except on●y of their benignity Would loath to ●●oke upon I understand Of which, good Lord, that thou so visit me A thousand times the Lord in Trinyte With all my heart, I thank the and commend Into thine hands my soul withouten end. And died so in faith and hole creance At Cauntorbury buried with great reverence, As a king should be with all kind of circumstance, Beside the Prince Edward, with great expense. His funeral Exequys were solemnised here in all pomp and state, his Son Henry the fifth and his Nobility being present, upon Trinity Sunday next following the day of his death. The reason (as I take it) wherefore King Henry made choice of this Church for his burial place, Marry the first wife of Henry the fourth. was, for that his first wife (the Lady Mary, one of the daughters and coheires of Vmphrey de Bohun, Earl of Hereford, Essex, and Northampton) was here entombed; who died before he came to the Crown, Ann. Dom. 1394. leaving behind her a glorious and fair renowned issue of children, to the comfort of her husband, and good of the commonwealth: viz. Henry afterwards King of England, Thomas Duke of Clarence, john Duke of Bedford, Humphrey Duke of Gloucester. Blanch married to William Duke of Bavaria, and Emperor, and Philip married to john King of Denmark and Norway. Here in the same Sepulchre lies the body of joan his second wife, daughter of Charles the fifth, Stow Annal. King of Navarre, who died without issue at Havering in the bower, Queen joan second wife of Henry the fourth. in the County of Essex, the tenth of july, Anno Dom. 1437. Reg. H. 6.15. having continued widow 24. years; This Queen endured some troubles in the reign of her Stepsonne King Henry the fifth, being charged that she should by witchcraft or sorcery seek the King's death, Speed. Hist. in vit. Hen. 5. a capital offence indeed, if the accusation was true, upon which furmise her goods and lands were forfeited by Act of Parliament; and she committed to safe keeping, in the Castle of Leedes in Kent: and from thence to Pemsey, attended only with nine of her servants; but (belike) her innocency within a little time delivered her from imprisonment, and she lived a long time after in all princely prosperity. Here, Margaret Duchess of Clarence. Vincent. Catal. Hon. Mills. Catal. between her two husbands (john Beaufort, marquis Dorset, and Thomas Plantagenet, Duke of Clarence) Margaret, daughter of Thomas, and sister, and one of the heirs to Edmond Holland, Earls of Kent, lieth gloriously entombed by her first husband; she had issue Henry Earl of Somerset, Thomas Earl of Perth, john, and Edmund, both Dukes of Somerset, joan Queen of Scots, and Margaret Countess of Devonshire: she died full of years the last of December, Ann. Dom. 1440. john her first husband lieth on her left side, john Earl of Sou●●rset, and Marquis Dorset. as appears by his arms, and portraiture (for I find no inscription at all upon the Monument) who was the eldest son of john of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, by his last wife Katherine Swinford, and surnamed Beaufort, of Beaufort, a Castle in Anjou, where he was borne: He was created first Earl of Somerset, and after marquis Dorset, by Richard the second: being but of small means to support such a swelling title. He made theearl of Somerset Marquis Io. Harding. cap 192. Of Dorset then; Sir john Beaufort that hight; Of poor livelihood that was that time doubtless. But he was deprived of this title of marquis Dorset, by Act of Parliament, in the first of Henry the fourth, his half brother, for whom afterwards the Commons became earnest petitioners in Parliament for his restitution. But he himself was altogether unwilling to be restored to this kind of newly invented honour, being but begun in the ninth year of this King's reign, and given to Robert de Vere, his minion; the first styled marquis of England, as it is observed by that most learned Antiquary and Lawyer, Titles of honour pag. 211 Io. Selden Esquire. I find little of him remarkable, being (belike) sore weakened both in power and spirit, by the foresaid Parliament; whereby (with others of the Nobility) he was reduced to the same estate of honour and fortune (which was but weak) in which he stood when first Thomas of Woodstock, Hollins. pa. 513. Duke of Gloucester, was arrested; and besides it was not lawful for him, nor any of the rest, to give liveries to retainers, or keep any about him but necessary servants. He died on Palmesonday the 16. of March, Ann. Dom. 1409. On her right side is the portraiture of her second husband, Thomas Duke of Clarence. Thomas Duke of Clarence, second son of King Henry the fourth, Lord high Steward of England, Constable of the King's Host, and Lieutenant General of his Army in France: who (after his many fortunate events in war) was the first man that was slain in the battle of * O●, little Baugie Baugy, upon Easter Eve An. Do. 1420. by one john Swinton, a Scot, who wounded him in the face with his Lance, as he was remounting (having given singular demonstration of his great valour) and so threw him to the ground. And with him that day were slain many of exemplary note, besides 4500. common Soldiers. This Duke had borne forth his youth with better respect than Prince Henry his brother had done; Hab. 〈◊〉. and was made Precedent of the Council, when his brother was dismissed that office for striking the Lord chief justice; yet for all that, his father sore feared, that his hasty distempered humour would breed great troubles in the State: and questionless he was of a violent selfe-willie disposition, neglecting now at the last cast the grave advice of his own countrymen, his chiefest Commanders by which, by all likelihood, he might have escaped all danger: and adhering to the treacherous persuasion of a * 〈◊〉 For 〈◊〉 ●um bard. Vincent Catal. Stranger, by which he was betrayed to present destruction. Which fierie-rash temper of his, together with the loss of the Battle, and the place of his burial, is briefly thus set down by my Author john Harding. And ne'er at Bawge came Gilbert Vmsrevile, Martial of France, with V. horse and no more, And of good wit, counseled him that while To keep the Church, and God's service tho, And after the Feast to seek upon his foo. And he answered him, if thou be afeard, Go home thy way, and keep the church yard. With that he said my Lord ye have no men, With the enemies thus hastily to sight: Your men wot not of this, ne how, ne how, To semble to you of power, ne of might. For truly now, my Cousin Gray now right And I, have here but ten men and no more, But yet ye shall never say we leave you so. So road they forth ay chyding by the way, Till they to Bawgy over the Bridge were gone, When the enemies were battayled in array, Where then they light and fought with them anon. The Duke was slain that day there with his sone. With him were slain then theearl Vmfrevile, And Sir john Gray the Earl of Tankeruile. The Lord Roos, and sir john Lumley, With many other were with him slain that day, Whose names I cannot write nor say The Earls two of Huntingdon no nay, Of Somerset also, were taken there I say For prisoners and put to great ransom, And lay full long in France then in prison. Th'english Power came, when all was done, And rescued then, the deed men where they lay, And brought the Lords home fro thence full soon That there lay slain upon the field that day And buried them in england in good array Each one in his abbey or Colage Afore founded within his heritage. The English power under the conduct of Thomas Montacute, Earl of Salisbury, coming somewhat too late to this overhasty encounter, thought to have requited this loss upon their enemy's heads, but at the sight of their forces the French gave ground, whereby the dead body of Clarence was recovered, and (with the rest) conveied into England; and buried in this Church. Att Canterbury the Duke was of Orleans, Idem eodem: Beside his Father King Henry buried, With such honour costage and expense As the Duchess his wife could have signified Which needed not to have been modifyed. She was so well within herself avysed Of great sadness, and woman heed premised. This following I have read for his Epitaph. Lib. Sawler, Mss. in bib. Cot. Hic iacet in tumulo Tho. Dux Clar. nunc quasi nullus Qui fuit in bello clarus nec clarior ullus. In the undercroft of our Lady's Chapel is an ancient Monument thus inscribed, joan de Borwaschs dame de Moun. joan Lad, Burwas●. thus surnamed of Burwash a town in Sussex, wherein she inhabited, which likewise gave name to Sir Bartholomew Burwash, Lamb. peramb. Knight of the Garter, Constable of Dover Castle, and Lord Warden of the Cinque ports. Here lieth interred Isabella de Dover, Isabel Countess of Athol. Countess of Assyle, as Stow calls her, but I think there is a mistaking of Assyle for Athol, as will partly appear by the sequel. Fulbert Lord of Chilham, had one only daughter and heir, whom Richard the base son of King john took to wife, Camden, in this Tract. by whom he had two daughters, Lora the wife of William Marmion, and Isabella wife to David of Stratbolgy, Earl of Athol, and afterwards to Sir Alexander Balliol, who was called to Parliament by the name of Lord of Chillham, and mother to that john, Earl of Athol, who being condemned oftentimes for treason, was hanged at the last upon a gibbet fifty foot high; as King Edward the first commanded, Stow Annal. because he might be so much the more conspicuous in men's eyes, as he was of higher and nobler birth, being of the King's blood. Lora was secondly married to one of the Lord Berkeleyes' Ancestors, if we may give any credit to these ancient rhymes. * Robert of Gloucester. Sir Richard the Fitz-Roy of wham we spoke by for Gentleman he was enough though he were last ibor. For the Earls daughter of Warren his good mother was, And his fadir King john, that by got him a perchas, Sir Morreys of Berkele wedded such by cas, His daughter, and wan on hur the good knight Sir Thomas. This Isabella deceased at Chilham here in Kent, in the month of February, Ann. Dom. 1292. Cuthert Archbishop of Cant. The first Archbishop that I find to be buried in this Church was Cuthbert, or Cudbrict (for before him they were always buried at Saint Augustine's) an Englishman of great parentage, translated from Hereford, the year 742. to this seat of Canterbury. Godwin, do Ptaeful. Aug. In whose time the laity were wicked, and the Clergy worse; the whole land was overwhelmed with a most dark and palpable mist of ignorance, and polluted with all kind of impiety. Which to reform, he called together a Synod of Bishops and learned men at Cloveshoo (now Cliff at Hoo) beside Rochester, Lamb. ye●amb. and there, after long consultation, caused one and thirty Canons to be decreed, one of which was, That the Priests were required to read to their Parishioners the Lords prayer, and the Creed in the English tongue: which, with the rest, De ges●●● Pontis. lib. 1. you may read in William Malmesbury. This Bishop obtained from the Pope a dispensation for making of Coemiteries, or Churchyards, within Towns and Cities, whereas until his time within the walls none were buried; Appendix Cron. Rotsen. in bib. Cot. as I have it thus in a Manuscript. Cutbertus Archiepiscopus Cant. xi. ab Augustino cum Rome videret plures intra Civitates sepeliri, rogavit Papam ut sibi liceret cemiteria facere, guod Papa annuit, reversus itaque cemiteria ubique in Anglia fieri constituit. He died, Ann. Dom. 758. Odo Severus Archbishop I find little of any other Bishop here buried, until the time of Odo Severus who lieth here interred under a Tomb of Touchstone (surnamed Severus of the austerity of his life and government) borne of Danish parents, Pagans, and utter enemies of Christ and Christian religion, insomuch that they disinherited this their Son Odo, for keeping company with Christians, Godwin de Praef. Ang. so that he was constrained to forsake his father's house, his kindred, and country, and betake himself to the service of a Nobleman in the Court of King Edward the elder, named Ethelelm, who set him to school, where he profited exceedingly. He was not baptised till he was come to man's estate: soon after his baptism, by the advice of Ethelelm his Master, he entered into orders; yet before he came to be a Clergy man, he served in the wars, which is not unlikely, saith mine Author, for after he was Bishop he was thrice in the field, Antiquit. Brit. M. Parker. and did his Prince notable service. He was first preferred to the Bishopric of Wiltshire (whose See was then seated at Ramsbury) by the special favour of King Athelstan; who being dead, his brother Edmund, who succeeded him in his kingdom, loving him no less, procured him to be chosen Archbishop. In which pastoral charge he continued many years in great favour, and authority, under diverse Princes, till towards the latter end of his time, that Edwin a young King was sore exasperated against him, for that this Bishop had caused him to be divorced from his Queen, for consanguinity, or some other reasons, and excommunicated his Concubines, causing one of them, whom the king doted upon, to be fetched out of the court by violence, to be burnt in the forehead with an hot iron, and banished into Ireland. But not long after he was taken away by death from the King's displeasure, Io. Bale. Cent. 2 in the year of our redemption, 958. having sat Archbishop 25. years, or thereabouts. He writ diverse Tractates both in verse and prose, Io. Capg. in vita S. Odonis. mentioned by Bale, and Capgrave, will have him in the Calendar of our English Saints and Confessors. But to conclude, such was his Epitaph. Stemmate serenus iacet hic sacer Odo Severus: Ex vet. Miss. in bib. Cot. Moribus excellens acriter peccata refellens. Presul at indulgens omni pictate refulgens. Ecclesie & Christi Pugil invictissimus isti. O bone nunc Christe quia sic tibi seruijt iste Celi solamen sibi des te deprecor. Amen. The life and death of this Archbishop Lanfranck is set down at large by William Malmsbury, Lanfrank Archbishop of Cant. Io. Capgrave, Nicholas Harpsfeild, Archdeacon of Canterbury, Matthew Parker, Archbishop, with others, and out of them all by Francis Godwin, now Bishop of Hereford. Yet for method sake thus much, because I find his body (by a Table inscribed which hangs upon his Tomb) to be here interred. He was borne in Italy, at Pavia, some twenty miles from Milan, brought up in the Monastery of Becco in Normandy, under Herlewin the learned Abbot of that house, of which he became Prior: from whence, in regard of his singular wisdom, and great knowledge in all good literature, he was called by William the Duke of Normandy to be Abbot of Saint Stephens in Cane, a Monastery that the said Duke had founded. And in the fifth year after his conquest of England, he promoted him to this archbishopric, which he laudably governed the space of eighteen years. It is said (an action which much obscured all his former praises) that he persuaded the Conqueror to leave the kingdom of England to his younger son William Rufus: which they said William thus requited; the Bishop (as the King thought) being somewhat too busy in reprehending his manifold vices, and exhorting him to godliness and virtue; he so bitterly fell out with him, that he banished him the Realm; the poor old bishop traveled to Rome; and wandered up and down many countries, till by intercession of friends he was suffered to return home; and soon after died of an ague, Harpsfeld Vndec. secul ca 1●. according to his own desire. Solebat enim Deum rogare ut velex dissenteria vel ex febri diem suum obiret, propterea quod hi morbi nec memoriam, nec loquelam auferant. He would often desire God that he might take his end either by a flux, or an ague: for that in those kind of infirmities men are wont to have the use both of speech and memory to the last cast. Floren Higorn. His death happened the 24. of May, Ann. Dom. 1089. He bestowed much upon the fabric of this Church, and the housing of the Monks: he built in a manner all the Archbishop's palace, he founded two Hospitals adjoining to this City, he gave great sums of money, and also a Manor toward the building of the Cathedral Church of Rochester, and did much for the Abbey of Saint Albon. He increased the number of the Monks of this Church, from thirty to forty, restored the dignities and offices of old belonging to the Monastery, and recovered unto the same 25. Manors that had been taken from it wrongfully in times past, Pitseus. Bale. Centuria secunda. by Odo Bishop of Bayon, and Earl of Kent. He was a profound Scholar for those times; he writ the noble acts of the Conqueror, he made learned Comments and Expositions of many parts of the Bible, and took great pains in reforming the same, the copies whereof were much corrupted throughout all England, by the negligent oversight of the writers. To his memory this Epitaph was composed. Serlo Parisiensis Mss. in bib. Cot. Vixisti venerande Pater sapienter, & egens, Vixisti, vivens mors quoque vita tibi. Inter divitias pauper Lanfrance fuisti. Divitijs manans pauperum amator eras. Per te florentes artes valuere latin; Grecia sis nobis ecce triumphat ovans. Tu Laios ortu, Gallosque docendo levasti, Te sibi Primatem cardo Britannus habet. In terra degens celestia regna petebas, Exemptus terra cider a liber adis. Sol geminos denis obsiderat igne diebus, Promsit Luna diem, nocte solutus abis. Anselm Archbishop. Here is the Tomb of Archbishop Anselm, borne in Augusta a City of Burgundy, who followed his predecessors steps almost foot by foot. First he came to Becco upon the like errand as Lanfrank had done; which was to obtain knowledge in all good learning: Antiquitales Brilan in vita Ans. Lanfrancke being called away to Cane, he was made Prior of Becco in his place, and afterwards Abbot, in which he continued 15. years, until at the request of Hugh Earl of Chester, he came over into England; and had this Bishopric bestowed upon him, some four years after the decease of Lanfrancke (for so long the king pursed up the profits thereof) by William Rufus; who presently after his consecration fell out with his new Bishop, and banished him the kingdom; in which he traveled up and down as an exile during the King's life, until by his brother King Henry the first, he was called home, and restored to all his former dignities. Godwin. de Praef. Aug. But not long after he was likewise banished the Realm by the said Henry, falling out with him concerning the disposing of Bishoprickes at the King's pleasure, giving investiture, and possession of them by the staff, and the ring, within three years, by the means and mediation of Adela or Alice, Countess of Blois, the King's sister, he was restored, not only to his place, but to all his goods and fruits gathered in the time of his absence. Some two years after this his last return, falling sick of a languishing disease, he died April 21. Ann. Dom. 1109. in the sixteenth year of his government. Some 400. years after, by the procurement of john Morton, one of his Successors, he was canonised a Saint, and one as worthy that honour as any that ever since his 〈◊〉 was canonised by the Pope; for, as his life and 〈…〉 was for integrity even admirable, and so was his learning as his works ●et extant do testify. Now because his Epitaph is either worn out, or was ever wanting, I will be so bold as borrow one for him from one of his own name, which I have read upon a Monument in Parma, in Italy. Hic iacet Anselmus post mortem vivere certus, Cantuar. Archiepus que omni bonitate refertus. Vir sobrius, castus, vir vitans undique fastus. Vir gremijs plenis, largus largitor egenis. Vir bene politus, sagax, doctus, ernditus. Dogmata maturusque, inter contagia purus. An Domini Mil. cent. que nono. que die quoque me●sis, April vicesimo uno Mortis hunc enecat ensis. In the south part of Saint Thomas Chapel, 〈◊〉 Archbishop. in a marble Tomb joining to the wall, lieth the body of Theobald, Archbishop of this See. Who was chosen to that Grace by the Suffragan Bishops of his own Province, in a Convocation held at London: he was a Benedictine Monk, and Abbot of Becco; a man of no great learning, but of so gentle and sweet behaviour (being very wise withal) as he was greatly esteemed of high and low, Kings, Nobles, and Commons; yet howsoever he was of an affable mild nature, Antiq. Britan. and fair demeanour, his patience was so greatly mon (upon good occasion) that he interposed the Pope's authority; with whom the King was made a party, Goeh●i●. in v● 〈…〉. so far, as that his goods and Temporalties were twice confiscate seized into the King's hands, and himself once banished the kingdom: which so nettled him, that like a tall fellow, Nam laesa patientia fit furor, he interdicted King Stephen, and the whole Realm, and taking advantage of the time, which was wondrous troublesome, came home and lived in Norfolk, till by the intercession of certain Bishops, he was restored. After which he grew into great favour with the said King, and was the chief means of concluding that final peace at Wallingford, Mat Pa●is Ann. 115●. between him and Maud the Empress. Shortly after which, King Stephen died, and Henry, surnamed Fitz empress, son of Geffrey Plantagenet, and Maud the Empress, succeeded him in the Regality, under whom this Bishop passed the rest of his days quietly in great favour and estimation: and died, Antiquitales Britan. Ann. 1160. when he had sat Archbishop 22. years. Perceiving his end to approach, he made his Will, and gave all his goods to the poor, or other like good uses. Of whom this Epitaph was made. Hic iacet Theobaldus Cantuar. Archiepiscopus, ob morum placabilitatem at que constantiam, Hen. 2. valde gratiosus, affabilis, veridicus, prudens, & amicus sirmus, in omnes liberalis, & in pauperes munificus; Qui sue tandem senectut is & languide vite pertesus anteactam vitam morti persoluit. Ann. Dom. 1160. cum 22. annis sedisset. Anima eius requiescat in pace. Amen. I find one Richard (for I find no further of his name) Archbishop of this chair, Richard Archbishop. to be here interred in our Lady's Chapel, sometime a Benedictine Monk●, Prior of the Monastery of Saint martin's in Dover, a man very liberal, 〈◊〉 gentle, and wise; for he so handled the matter, that in all his time he never was at odds, or out, either with the Pope or King. The Pope he entertained with often gifts and money, the King's favour he retained by yielding, and conforming himself to his pleasure. This man continued in his government, about the space of ten or eleven years. In all which time there happened not any thing of him worthy of memory; except the controversy, 〈…〉. Westminst. 11●6. stir, and tumult between him and the Archbishop of York for primacy: and the ordaining of three Archdeacon's for his Diocese, which ever before his time was content with one. ●ib. ●●ocest. M●s. An ill husband he was for his Church, if we may believe this my old Author. This Richard (saith he) was a man of great Religion, and also of great wit in his temporal governance; but in defending of his freedom of holy Church, and punishment of excess, and misbelievers, to simple and slow; which is partly approved by the sequel (if the report of his end and death may pass for current truth) how that being a sleep at his Manor of Wrotham, 〈◊〉 Britan. there seemed to come unto him a certain terrible Personage, 〈◊〉. demanding of him who he was, whereunto, when for fear the Archbishop answered nothing. Thou art he (said the other) that hast destroyed the goods of the Church, and I will destroy thee from off the face of the earth; which having said, he vanished away. In the morning the Bishop (taking his journey toward Rochester) related this fearful vision unto a friend of his by the way, which he had no sooner told, then that he was taken suddenly with a great cold, and stiffness in his limbs, so that they had much ado to get him so far as Halling, a house belonging to the Bishop of Rochester, where he took his bed; and being horribly tormented with the Colic, and other griefs, gave up the ghost the next night following save one the 16. of Feb. Ann. 1184. obijs (saith one) 14. Kal. Martij feria sexta necte, Lib. Mortal. de 〈…〉. M●s. in ●ib Col Ann. 11. ab electione sua, cuius corpus in Ecclesia Christi Cant. in oratorio sancte Marie 22. Kal. Martij die Sabbati est honorifice Sepultus. Hubert Walter Archbishop: In the South wall of this Church, lieth the body of Hubert Walter, or Walter Hubert, (for such a transmutation of the name I find to be used) who was borne at West-Derham in Norfolk, Francis Thin and brought up under Raynulph de Glanfeld, Antiq B●●tan Godwin. de prae●ul. Ang chief justice of England. The first preferment he obtained was the Deanrie of York, thence he was called by King Richard the first, unto the Bishopric of Salisbury. Whom he attended in all that long and dangerous voyage into the holy Land; as a Commander, or Colonel of some English forces, Ger. Dorob: by whose valour and his own, he performed admirable service at the siege and surrender of Acon, and other fortified places, H●llins. pa 1●2. for which, and for his discreet handling the matter, in procuring 250000. Marks of the Clergy, for the ransom of his Master King Richard, the said King knew not how to heap honours sufficient upon him; so that at one time he was Archbishop, the Pope's Legate, Lord Chancellor, Lord chief justice, and high immediate Governor under him of all his Dominions, both in Wales and England: he was much blamed (and peradventure not unworthily) for undertaking so many great offices; For Pluribus intentus minor est ad singula sensus. howsoever, ●ig Heveden never any man used his authority and power more moderately; faithful and loyal he was ever to his Prince, loving and very careful of his country, in which he caused many excellent Decrees and Laws to be established. His house keeping was such, as the expense thereof was thought to be little inferior to the Kings; he built a Monastery at Durham, the place of his birth, began another at Wulferhampton, encompassed the Tower of London with a strong wall; and a deep Moat, been ●ased the revenues of his See, adorned it with many sumptuous and sta●ely buildings, and procured diverse notable privileges for the same; and to repair the books and Library of this Church, he gave the Church of Halegast: he finished a Collegiate Church at Lambeth, of Canons regular, begun by Baldwin his predecessor. Which upon the complaint of the Monks of Canterbury to the Pope, was pulled down to the ground. Ma●ny oppositions were betwixt him and the Pope, 〈…〉 119●. and many times he was discountenanced by King john, yet (apparently) he died in both their favours, at his Manor of Tenham, july 13. 1205. Having sat Archbishop twelve years saving four months. Here lieth entombed the body of Stephen Langton Archbishop, Stephen Langton Archbishop. whose election to this See, against the Kings will, was the cause of many calamities within this kingdom, the greatest part whereof fell upon the Clergy; Of which hear my Author. Bishop Hubert of Canterbury though died, john Harding. cap. 142. Wherefore King john unto the Covent sent, To choose his john Gray Bishop o● Norw●ch. Clerk, which they refused and denied, Wherefore the king was wroth in his intent; For they disobeyed the letter which he sent, For they had chosen Master Stephan Langton; An worthy Clerk, of all disposition. Whom king john then would not admit For roman Bull, ne for the Prelate's prayer, But prisoned some, and some to death commit, Some he exiled, and their eyen clear, And all persounes and Prelates in fere He then put out, and seized their benefice Through all the land, as his mortal enemies. The Romish bishop cursed him openly And all the realm fully did enterdite, That Sacraments none, therein should occupy. But howsoever these mischiefs happened upon his admittance, yet the man (in regard of his many excellent gifts both of body and mind) was no way to be misliked, but much to be commended, for his religious wise carriage, living under so violent a King. And in such troublesome ungodly times, to whom this Distichon, taken out of Marshal's Epigrams, to Traian warfaring under Diocletian, was applied, Laudari debes, quoniam sub principe duro, Giraldus Cambrens in Praes. ad Steph. Arch. Cant. Temporibusque malis ausus es esse bonus. descended he was from an ancient family in Lecestershire, brought up in the University of Paris, greatly esteemed by the King and all the Nobility of France, for his singular and rare learning; made Chancellor of Paris, and Cardinal of Rome: Bule. Cent. 2. 〈◊〉 S. Chrysogoni. He writ many admirable profound works, and amongst the rest, divided the Bible into Chapters: in such sort as we now account them; he bestowed much upon his palace here in Canterbury, and upon a fair Horologe in the South-crosse Isle. Yet the solemnity of the translation of Thomas Beckets' bones was so chargeable unto him, Godwin. de Presul. Ang. as neither he, nor four of his successors, were able to recover the debt, he cast his Church into. He died july 9 1228. having sat Archbishop 22. years. Here in this Church, but in what particular place my Author knows not, john Peckham Archbishop. john Peckham, sometime Bishop of this See lieth buried. This john was borne in Sussex, spent his childhood in the Abbey of jews, and was brought up in the University of Oxford, from thence he went to Paris to study Divinity, and after that to Livus to get some knowledge in the Canon Law, Godwin. Catal. without the which Divinity was esteemed unperfect in those days: and to better his knowledge, he visited all the Universities of Italy, came to Rome, where, his rare learning being soon perceived, he was made by the Pope, Auditor, or chief judge of his palace; and so continued till his preferment to Canterbury: for a man of so mean parentage, he was thought to be very stately, both in gesture, gate, words, and all outward show, yet of an exceeding meek, facile, inward disposition. Unto double Beneficed men, and Nonresidents he was very strict, Adultery he punished very severely; he persecuted a Bishop terribly, for keeping of a Concubine: and one Roger Ham a Priest, he enjoined to three years' penance for fornication: a sin predominant in former times among the Clergy. Witness these rhymes. Great Lechery and fornication Was in that Harding c 193. King Richard's 2 house, and also great advoutree Of Paramours was great consolation Of each degree, well more of Prelacy Then of the Temporal, or of the Chivalry. He excommunicated one Sir Osborne Gifford, Knight, for stealing two Nuns out of the Nunnery of Wilton; and absolved him upon these conditions. First, that he should never come within any Nunnery, or in the company of a Nun, that three Sundays together he should be whipped in the Parish-Church of Wilton, and as many times in the Market, and Church of Shaftsbury; that he should fast a certain number of months, That he should not wear a shirt of three years: And lastly, that he should not any more taken upon him the habit or title of a Knight, but wear apparel of a russet colour, until he had spent three years in the holy Land. He died Ann. 1294. very rich, yet founded a College of Canons at Wingham in Kent, Wingham College founded. valued at 84. l. per annum, and advanced many of his friends to great possessions, whose posterity have continued in the state of Knights and Esquires even until our times. He sat Archbishop thirteen years and an half. His heart was buried at Christ-Church London, retro magnum altar. Here beside the altar of Saint Gregory, sometime stood a sumptuous Monument, wherein the bones of Robert Winchelsey were entombed, which upon the reformation of Religion was pulled down to the ground, lest that the common people, who would needs esteem him a Saint, might give him divine honours. He sat Archbishop nineteen years, during which time he endured much sorrow, yet finished his days in quietness, and great felicity. 〈◊〉 The King and the Pope concurring together in his time, exacted many great payments, and inflicted grievous punishments upon the Clergy. Whereupon these Satirical verses were framed. Ecclesiae navis titubat regni quia clavis Errat, Rex Papa facti sunt unica capa Hoc faciunt, do, des, Pilatus hic, alter Herodes. He lived in banishment two years, even until the death of Edward the first, who exiled him upon surmised Treason, from which he was called home by Edward his son, who restored him to his place, to all his goods, and to all the profits of his Temporalities, received in his absence. He was a stout Prelate, and a severe punisher of sin; he boldly opposed himself against Piers Gaveston, the Spensers, and other corrupters of the young king; and enforced john Warren Earl of Surrey, to forswear the company of a certain beautiful Wench, with the love of which he was greatly be witched. He maintained many poor Scholars at the Universities with liberal exhibition, and such preferments as fell to his disposition, he bestowed upon men of excellent learning. Unto all kind of poor people he was exceeding bountiful: his books, apparel, and other movables (such as they were; for most of his yearly revenues he ever bestowed in almsdeeds and liberal house keeping) he gave to this Church of Canterbury, who l●st to know more of his life may read the Catalogue of Bishops, and the perambulation of Kent. He died at Otford his Manor house, May 〈…〉. 1313. Here lieth entombed Walter Reynolds, ●alter Reynolds Archbishop. a man but of mean learning; brought up a Courtier, preferred to the Bishopric of Worcester, to the offices of Lord Chancellor, and Treasurer of England, and to this Metropolitan honour of Canterbury by King Edward the second; all which he most disloyally and like a Traitor requited, aiding (underhand) the Queen, Mortimer, and their complices, with great sums of money, and forsaking his lawful Sovereign, his Master, his Patron, that had advanced him by so many degrees, unto an estate so graciously honourable; but it pleased God that unthankful timorousness should be his destruction, for being by the said Queen (of whom he stood so greatly in awe) commanded to consecrate one james Berkley, 〈◊〉 Bishop of Exeter: and performing the same, he was so reviled, taunted, and threatened by the Pope, that for grief and anger together he died, when he had sat Archbishop thirteen years, nine months and three weeks, the 16. of November, Ann. 1327. as appears by this inscription upon his Tomb in the South wall, now hardly to be read. Hic requiescit Dominus Walterus Reynolds prius Episcopus Wigorniensis, & Anglie Cancellarius, deinde Archiepiscopus istius Ecclesie qui obijt 16. die mens. Novembris Ann. gratie 1327. Simon Mepham Archbishop. Upon the North side of Saint Anselmes' Chapel, in a marble Tomb, lieth Simon Mepham Archbishop of this See, borne in this country, Doctor of Divinity, and very well learned (as learning went in those days) of whom I find little worthy of relation; for all the time he sat (which was but five year and somewhat more) he was ever a wrangling with his Monks of this Church, and with Io. Graundison Bishop of Exeter; and getting the worse by both, he fell sick and died, October 12. 1333. john Stratford Archbishop. Here in a goody Tomb of Alabaster on the South side of the high Altar, lieth the body of john Stratford, Archbishop of this Diocese, borne at Stratford upon Avon: a man famous for his learning, and good government of his jurisdiction. He was called from the See of Winchester to this place; he was Lord Chancellor of England, and protector of the Realm, in the absence of Edward the third in France; but never man enjoyed such great honours with less comfort. Antiq. Britan. It is written that he was consecrated upon the Sunday, called then, Multae tribulationes iustorum, which he thought boded or foretold unto him, how in the whole course of his life, he should find nothing but trouble; which sell out according to his ominous conceit. For never any Archbishop, either before or after him, giving so little cause, and doing his endeavour to please, was more encumbered with undeserved and often crosses. Godwin The story is overlong here to relate, I must refer my Reader to the Catalogue of Bishops. Yet before his end (which happened Anno 1348. having been Archbishop 15. years) he had made an end of all his troublesome crosses, and lived certain years quietly; they writ of him that he was a very gentle and merciful man, rather too remiss than any way rigorous to offenders, and a pitiful man to the poor. He founded a College at Stratford upon Avon, and endowed the same largely. john 〈◊〉 Archbishop. Here lieth obscurely buried john ufford, brother to that illustrious Knight of the Garter, Robert de Vfford, Earl of Suffolk: brought up in Cambridge, and made Doctor of Law, promoted first unto the Deanrie of Lincoln, then to the Chancellourship of England, and lastly to this archbishopric. Which he never enjoyed, being cut off by that plague (which consumed nine parts of the men in England) before he received either his pall, or consecration, june the seventh, Ann. 1348. His next successor, Thomas Bradwardin, lieth buried in the South wall, somewhat darkly; Thomas 〈◊〉 Arch●●ishop. preferred to his grace and dignity, without his own seeking, or any of his friends endeavours; which he likewise enjoy but a very little time. For within five weeks and four days after his consecration, he died at Lambeth (being never enthronised at all) Ann. 1349 This man was borne at Heathfeild in Sussex, and brought up in the University of Oxford, where he proceeded Doctor of Divinity; and so exquisite a Divine he was, . that he was commonly enstiled Doctor Profundus. He was a good Mathematician, a great Philosopher, and a general Scholar in all the liberal Sciences, as his works not yet perished do testify. In whole praise thus Chaucer speaks in the Nun's Priests tale. But I ne cannot bolt it to the brens, As can the holy Doctor Saint Austin, Or Boece or the Bishop Bradwardin. But above all, he is especially commended for his sincerity of life and conversation. He was Confessor to Edward the third, and in all his wars of France, was never from him; and though he might have had many preferments of the King, yet he was so far from ambitious desire of promotion, as it was long before he could be persuaded to take a Prebend of Lincoln, when it was offered him. Well we will leave him to his rest, only remembered with this Epitaph. Doctor Doctorum Bradwardin hac iacet urna, Ex vet, M●s Anon. in bib. Cot. Norma Pastorum laudabilis & diuturna. Qui invidia caruit vitam sine crimine duxit, Et ex ore suo quicquid sit scibile fluxit. Nullus sub sole est cui sic fuere omnia nota. Cantia nunc dole, tristeris & Anglia tota. Vos qui et transitis, hic omnes atque reditis, Dicite quod Christi pietas sit promptior isti. Simon Islip brought up in Merton College in Oxford, Simon Islip Archbishop. being Doctor of Law became Canon of Paul's, than Deane of the Arches, after that was chosen to be of the privy Council to King Edward the third; first in the place of Secretary, and then Keeper of the privy Seal And lastly, by the Monks election, the Pope's approbation, and the King's good liking; he was advanced to this grace and dignity. Wherein he continued sixteen years, four months, and twelve days: and died April 26. 1366. he lieth buried in the middle of the Church, under a marble Tomb inlaid with brass, whereon is engraven this Epitaph. Simon Islip oriens, vir bina lege probatus, Vt nascens, moriens sic nunc iacet arcte locatus, Arcem qui tenuit hic quondam Pontificatus, Clero quique fuit regno toti quoque gratus. Princeps Pastorum fac Simon Apostolorum, Simon ut iste chorum per eos pertingat eorum Mil. trecenteno, sexageno modo seno Eius septeno pastoratus quoque deno Hic Kal. Maij seno rupto carnis nece freno: Flos cadit e feno celo peto qui sit ameno O spes sanctorum decus et pie Christ tuorum, Cetibus ipsorum pre●e tungas hunc precor horum. He was a very severe corrector of sin, depriving many Clergymen of their livings, in the first visitation of his own Diocese. He repaired his palace, with 1101. l. and odd money, which he recovered of Andrew Vfford, Archdeacon of Midlesex, admin●stratour of john Vfford his predecessor, for dilapidations, Godw●n. he built and endowed with good possessions a College in this City, which is now become a parcel of Christ-church in Oxford. He bequeathed to his Church a thousand sheep, his vestments, which were all cloth of gold, a very sumptuous Coape, and much plate; he was a very ●●ugall and sparing man, never esteeming pomp nor outward bravery, which he showed at his end, desiring to be buried obscurely to avoid superfluous expense. William Wittle●ey Archbishop William Wittlesey succeeded the said Simon, and was brought up at Oxford, at the charges of Simon Islip who was his Uncle, where he proceeded Doctor of the Canon Law, and by him sent to Rome to solicit his causes, and also to get experience by seeing the practice of that Court: who after he had stayed there a time was called home, and preferred by his Uncle's means, unto the place of Vicar general, then to the Deanrie of the Arches, the Archdeaconry of Huntingdon, the Parsonages of Croyden, and Cliff; to the Bishopric of Rochester, from thence to Worcester; and lastly (after the decease of his said Uncle) to this archbishopric of Canterbury, in which he continued almost seven years, being the most of his time troubled with a tedious lingering disease, whereof he died july 5. 1374. He lieth buried over against his Uncle between two pillars, under a marble Tomb inlaid with brass, which with his Epitaph is altogether defaced, the brass worn, torn or stolen away; these few words only remaining. ............ tumulatus Wittelesey natus gemmata luce ..... Sudburie natus Simon iacet hic tumulatus Martirizatus nece pro republica stratus. Heu scelus infernum, trux, exitiale, nefandum, Presulis eximij corpus venerabile dandum In rabiem Vulgi ......... This is a fragment of an Epitaph, composed to the memory of Simon Tibold, the son of one Nigellus Tibold, surnamed Sudbury of a Town in Suffolk, where he was borne; a Doctor of the Canon Law, who by degrees came to this Metropolitan Grace of Canterbury. A man very wise, learned, eloquent, liberal, merciful, and wondrous reverend: all which could not deliver him from untimely death. For he, together with Sir Robert Hales, Lord Prior of Saint john's jerusalem, and Chancellor or England, were haled to the Tower-hill, by the Rebels of Kent, and Essex, with infernal shouts and yells, and there unjustly (Nam ius calcatur viol●●tia cum dominatur) and horribly hack●, hewed, and in that barbarous manner beheaded by these arch Traitors, june the fourteenth, the year of our Lord, 1381. and of the reign of that unfortunate King Richard the second, the fourth; having sat Bishop about six years. Which lamentable story the Chronicles at large declare. When these hurly burlies were at an end, the body of this good Archbishop was conveyed to his own Church, and there honourably inte●●ed upon the South side of the Altar of Saint Dunstan. This Bishop built the West-gate of this City, and the wall from that gate unto the Northgate, commonly called by the name of the long wall, and would have done likewise about all the Town, if he had lived. The Mayor and the Aldermen once a year used to come solemnly to his Tomb to pray for his soul, in memory of this his good deed to their City, saith Leland in his Commentaries. It was the custom of old, and so it is in these days, for men of eminent rank and quality to have Tombs erected in more places than one; for example and proof of my speech, I find here in this Church a Monument of Alabaster, at the feet of the black Prince, wherein, both by tradition and writing, it is affirmed that the bones of William Courtney (the son of Hugh Courtney, the third of that Christian name, Earl of Devonshire▪ Archbishop of this See, lies entombed. And I find another, to the memory of the same man, at Maidstone here in Kent, wherein (because of the Epitaph) I rather believe that his body lieth buried; Of which hereafter when I come to that Town. Here lieth interred under a fair Monument, Thomas Arund●ll Archbishop. Thomas Fitz-Alan, or Arundel, the third son of Richard Fitz-Alan, Earl of Arundel, Warren, and Surrey, by Eleanor his wife, daughter of Henry Plantagenet, Earl of Lancaster, as I have it in the Catalogue of Honour. Who at the age of two and twenty years was consecrated Bishop of Ely: An old Bishop which he laudably governed (considering the greenness of his age) the space of fourteen years, three months, and eighteen days. In which time he was Lord Chancellor of England; from Ely he was translated to York; leaving for an implement at his house of Ely, a wonderful sumptuous and costly Table, adorned with gold and precious stones, which belonged first to the King of Spain, Godwi●. and was sold to this Bishop by the black Prince for three hundred Marks. He also bestowed the building of the great Gatehouse of Ely house in Houlborne: during his abode at York, which was about eight years, he bestowed much in building upon diverse of his houses, and unto the Church. Besides many rich ornaments, he gave two great Basins of silver and gilt, two great Censers, two other Basins of silver, and two Crevetts; he gave to the Vicars, a silver cup of great weight, and a massy bowl of silver to the Canons. From York he was removed hither to Canterbury, and here he sat one month above seventeen years. In which time, at the West end of his Church, he built a fair spi●e steeple▪ called to this day, Arundel steeple, and bestowed a tuneable ring of five bells upon the same, Antiq. Britan. which he dedicated to the holy Trinity, to the blessed Virgin Mary, to the Angel Gabriel, to Saint Blaze, and the fifth to S. john Evangelist. Thus much he effected: howsoever he was no sooner warm in his seat, Lanquet. Hollins. then that he with his brother, the Earl of Arundel, were condemned of high Treason, his brother executed, and he banished the kingdom; and so lived in exilement the space of near two years, until the first of the reign of Henry the fourth. This worthy Prelate died of a swelling in his tongue, which made him unable to eat, drink, or speak for a time before his death. Which happened Februar. 20. Ann. 1413. An Author contemporary with this Archbishop, writes as followeth of the passages in those times, as also much in the grace and commendation of this worthy Metropolitan. Io. Gower Cronic. tripart. Mss. in bib. Cot. Heu mea penna madet lachrimis, dum scribere suadet, Infortunata sceleris quibus horreo fata. Non satis est Regem mundi deflectere legem; Vt pereant gentes sub eo sine lege manentes. Sed magis in Christum sevit, qua propter ad istum Casum deslendum non est mihi crede tacendum. Anglorum Primas, sub primo culmine primas Qui tennit sedes melius dum sperat in edes Hunc Rex compellit & eum de sede repellit, Dum Simon Rome supplantat federa Thome, Hic Thomas natus Comitis fuit intitulatus, Clericus aptatus, Doctor de iure creatus, Legibus ornatus, facundus moringeratus Cam Christo gratus, in plebe que magnisicatus. O quam preclarus tam purus & immaculatus, Ad Regale latus tandem fuit illaqueatus. Tramite subtili latitans plus vulpe senili, Rex studet in sine Thomam prostrare ruin De tribus audistis cum Rex scelus intulit istis Presul & adiutor fuit hijs quodammodo tutor, Non contra legem sed ab ira flectere Regem. Nomine pastoris temptaverat omnibus horis. Semper erat talis restat dum spes aliqualis; Sicanira mortem poterat saluasse cohortem. Rex ●●lit hoc triste quod Cancellarius iste Tempore quo stabat hos tres constanter amabat. Sic procurator pius extitit & Mediator. Cartas quod Regis habuerunt munere legis, Pontificis more summi pro Regis amore. Sic pacem mittit mortis gladiumque remittit. Hec ita fecisset pactum si Rex tenuisset; Sed que iuravit hodie cras verba negavit. Cernite pro quali culpa magis in speciali, Ponti●ici tali sine causa materiali Rex fuit iratus, sed & altera causa reatus, Est plus secreta tunc Rome quando moneta, Simonis ex parte Papam concludit in a●t●. Ecce per has causas sub Regis pectore clausas, Hec scelus obiecit Thome, qui nil male secit. Regis fautores super hoc tunc anteriores. Fraudibus obtentum concludunt Parliamentum: Sic de finali Rex pondere iudiciali. Exilio demit Thomam, nee amore redemit. Sic Pater absque pare, quem Rex spoliavit avare, Parts ignotas tunc querit habere remotas. Sic pius Antistes casus pro tempore tristes Sustinet, & curam sperat revocare futuram. Christus eum ducat, saluet que salute reducat: Si ut uterque status sit ei cum laude beatus. Upon his restauration to this his Bishopric, by Henry the fourth Duke of Lancaster, the same Author thus writes. justos laudavit, iniustos vituperavit, Hos confirmavit, hos deprimit, hos relevauiss. Regni primatem crudelem per feritatem Quem Rex explantat, Dux ex pietate replantat. Henry Chichley, Bishop of this See, lies here on the North side of the Presbytery, in a Tomb built by himself in his life time: he was borne at Higham●errys in Northamptonshire, where he began the foundation of a goodly College, and an Hospital, which were finished by his two brethren, his Executours. He was brought up in New College in Oxford, where he proceeded Doctor of Law, and where he founded two Colleges, one called Bernard College, renewed by Sir Thomas White, and named Saint john's College: and all Souls College, which yet continueth in the same estate he left it, one of the fairest in that University. He was employed much in embassages by King Henry the fourth, who preferred him to the Bishopric of Saint David's; where he sat five years, and was then translated hither by his son King Henry the fifth. He was a man happy, enjoying always his Prince's favour, wealth, honour, and all kind of prosperity many years, wise in governing his See worthily, bountiful in bestowing his goods to the behoof of the commonwealth. And lastly stout and severe in due administration of justice. When he had governed this Sec. 29. years (a longer time than ever any did in five hundred years before him) he died April 12. Ann. 1443. Upon whose Monument I find this Epitaph. Hic iacet Hen: Chicheley L. Doctor, quondam Cancellarius Sarum, ●ui anno 7. Hen. 4. Regis ad Gregorium Papam 12. in Ambassiata transmissus, in Civitate Senensi per manus eiusdem Pape in Episcopum Meneuens●m consecratus est. Hic etiam Henricus anno 2. Hen. 5. Regis, in hac sancta Ecclesia in Archiepiscopum postulatus & à joanne Papa 23. ad eandem translatus, qui obij● anno Dom. 1443. Mens●● Apr. de● 12. Cetus sanctorum 〈…〉 iste precetur, Vt Deus ipsorum mer●●●s, ●●b● propictetur. Remain. I find another more unlearned Epitaph of him, by which he is but little honoured, being such an especial furtherer of learning. Pauper eram natus, post Primas hic ●●euatus. ●am sum prostratus, & vermi●●● 〈◊〉 paraius. Ecce meum tumulum. M. CCCC.XLIII. john Stafford Archbishop. Here lies interred in the martyrdom an Archbishop, very noble, and no less learned, one of the honourable family of the Staffords; son (saith the Catalogue of Bishops) unto the Earl of Stafford, but I find no such thing in all the Catalogues of Honour; a man much favoured by King Henry the fifth, woe preferred him first to the Deanrie of Wells, gave him a Prebend in the Church of Salisbury, made him one of his privy Council, and in the end Treasurer of England. And then although this renowned King was taken away by untimely death, yet he still went forward in the way of promotion, and obtained the Bishopric of Bath and Welles, which with great wisdom he governed eighteen years, from whence he was removed to this of Canterbury, in which he sat almost nine years; and in the mean time was made Lord Chancellor of England, which office he held eighteen years (which you shall hardly find any other man to have done) until waxing weary of so painful a place, he voluntarily resigned it over into the King's hands. And about three years after that died at Maidstone, july 6. Ann. 1452. Upon a flat marble stone over him I find this consabulatorie Epitaph. Quis fuit enuclees quem celas saxe● moles? Stafford Antistes. fuerat dictusque johannes. Qua sedit sede marmor queso simul ede? Pridem Bathonie, Regni totius & inde Primas egregius. Pro presule funde precatus Aureolam gratus huic det de Virgin natus. Much more may be read of this Bishop in the book called, Antiquitates Britannicae, penned by Matthew Parker, Archbishop of this place, and in the Catalogue of Bishops, by Francis Godwin, Bishop of Hereford▪ as also in the Catalogues of the Lords Chancellors and Treasurers of England, collected by Francis Thin. In a decent Monument on the South side of the Presbytery, john Kempe, Archbishop of this See, john Kempe Archbishop. lieth interred, who was borne at Wye in this County of Kent, brought up at Oxford in Merton College, where he proceeded Doctor of Law. He was made first Archdeacon of Durham, than Deane of the Arches, and Vicar general unto the Archbishop Stafford. Not long after he was advanced to the Bishopric of Rochester, removed thence to Chichester, from Chichester to London, from London to York, from York to Canterbury: he was first Cardinal of the title of Saint Balbine, and from that removed to the title of Saint Rusine; all which his Ecclesiastical preferments were comprehended in this one verse, composed by his cousin Thomas Kempe, Bishop of London. Bis Primas ter Praesul erat, bis Cardine functus. And to add to all these honours, he was twice Lord Chancellor of England. He continued not here above a year and a half, but died a very old man, March 22. 1453. he converted the Parish-Church of Wye into a College of secular Priests. Of which hereafter. In a little history of the Archbishops of York, written in rythmicall numbers, I find these in his commendations. Tunc Iohannes nobilis Kemp vociferatus, Prius in Londonijs Presul installatus. Et erectus Pontifex Metropolitanus. Presul Archipresulem confirmat Romanus, Mandans sibi pallium Martinus; erectus Sagax Cancellarius Regis est effectus. Cardinalis Presbyter digne sublimatur. Sub Balbine Titulo, sic laus cumulatur. In Suthwell manerium fecit preciosum, Multis artificibus valde sumptuosum, Annis multis prospere curam sui gregis, Rexit per iusticiam, & per normam legis. Tandem usque Cantiam Presul est translatus Illic Archiepiscopus est inthronizatus Apud Lambeth obijt labor iam finitur, Et in Cantuaria corpus sepelitur, Licet prohibuerit Abbas rigorose jacet ibi condita gleba gloriose. I find little of any great work or deed of charity this Bishop performed (besides his Manor of Suthwell here only mentioned) with all these his pennisome preferments. but the reason is given in the Catalogue of Bishops, that he died very rich, and that in his life time he advanced many of his kindred to great wealth, and some to the dignity of knighthood, whose posterity continued yet in this County, of great worship and reputation, even to this day. That he might die very rich I do not deny, but for the advancement of his kindred to the honour of knighthood, was no other title than his grandfather Sir john Kempe, and his Uncle Sir Roger enjoyed: his own father Thomas being a younger brother to the said Sir Roger. Here lieth buried (as by an inscription upon a marble doth appear) Thomas Bourchier, Tho 〈◊〉 Archbishop. commonly called Bowser, second son of William Bourchier, Earl of Ewe in Normandy, and brother to Henry Bourchier Earl of Ewe and Essex. He was brought up in Oxford 〈…〉 preferred to the Deanrie of Saint martin's, then to the Bishop●●●●● o● Worcester, from whence he was translated to Ely; and 〈…〉 in this chair of Canterbury, wherein he sat 32. years, and 〈…〉 the time of his first consecration 51. years. I find not 〈…〉 Englishman continued so long a Bishop, or that any Archbishop, 〈◊〉 before or after him, in eight hundred years enjoyed that place so long. And to add more honour to his Grace, and money to his purse, he was about two years' Lord Chancellor of England, 〈◊〉 ●atal. of Chancellor. and Cardinal tt. S. Ciriaci in Thermis, ●●t all this time for all these great and eminent promotions, he left nothing behind him to continue his memory, but an old rotten chest in the congregation house at Cambridge, called Billingsworth and Bowser, into which (for the use of the University) Billingsworth before him had put in one hundred pounds, and he (forsooth) imitating that munificent example, put in one hundred and twenty pounds. He died March 30. 1486. as appeared by 〈…〉 ption upon his Monument. Hic iacet reverendissimus pater & Dominus D. Thomas 〈…〉 quondam sacrosancte Romane Ecclesie S. Ciriaci in Thermi 〈…〉 chiepiscopus huius Ecclesie, qui obijt 30. die Marty 1486. 〈…〉 propitietur altissimus. john Morton Archbishop: Here lieth buried under a marble stone, in a sumptuous Chapel under the Quire, of his own building, john Morton, borne (to the good of all England) at Beer (at Saint Andrews Milborn, summed. Dorset. saith Camde●) in Dorsetshire, brought up in Oxford, where he proceeded Doctor of the Civil and Canon Law; he was first Parson of Saint Dunstan's in London, and prebendary of Saint Decumanes in Wales, than Bishop of Ely, Master of the Rolls, Lord Chancellor of England, Cardinal of Saint Anastatia, and Archbishop of this Metropolitan See. A man so well deserving both of the Church and commonwealth, that all honours and offices were too little which were conferred upon him: of a piercing natural wit he was, very well learned, and honourable in behaviour, lacking no wise ways to win love and favour, by whose deep wisdom and policy, the two houses of York and Lancaster (whose titles for a long time had mightily disquieted the whole kingdom) were happily united; but our English Chronicles are so full and copious in this Bishop's commendation, as that I know not where to begin with him, nor how to take my leave of him. Whilst he was Bishop of Ely (which was about eight years) he bestowed great cost upon his house at Hatfield in Hertfordshire, Antiq. Britan. (now the mansion place of that right honourable Lord, and one of the privy Council, William Cecil, Earl of Salisbury) and at Wisbich Castle in Cambridgeshire (a house belonging to that See) all the bricke-building was done at his charges And in the time of his Primacy in this Church, he bestowed great sums in repairing and augmenting his houses at Knoll, Maydstone, Godwin. Alington Park, Charing, Ford, Lambeth, and Canterbury. He bequeathed by his last Will, in a manner, all that he had, either unto good uses, or to such of his servants as he had yet been able to do nothing for. He gave to the King a Portuis, to the Queen a 〈◊〉, to the ●●dy Margaret his God daughter (afterwards married to 〈…〉, King of Scotland) a cup of gold, and tourry p●unds in 〈…〉 Church of Ely, his Mitre and Crolle; unto his 〈◊〉 and 〈…〉 give nothing, as having sufficiently pref●rre● them in his 〈…〉 which family, Robert, Bishop of Worcester, and many 〈…〉 of very good note and quality in Dorsetshire, and 〈…〉. His Ex●ecutors he bound by oath to maintain sufficiently 〈…〉 at Oxford, and ten at Cambridge, for the space of twenty 〈…〉 decease And it is not to be forgotten, that the year before he died, 〈◊〉 great charges he procured Anselm, one of his predecessors, to be 〈◊〉 nized a Saint. This good man died at his Manor of 〈◊〉, in the 〈◊〉 of October, 1500. having enjoyed this archbishopric 〈◊〉 en● years in all quietness. I find no memorial of him upon his 〈…〉 please you then to let these lines following serve for an Eulogium or Epitaph. johannes Morton postquam Cantuariensem Provinciam 13. Ann. rexisset, obijt. D●lubrum ipse sumptuosum vinus in Ecclesii in subterraneo crypto ex trux●t, in quo humatus est. Vir fuit prudens, facundus, atque gravis qualem Hen. 7. vitae socium, morumque quasi magistrum plerumque penes se habuit. Tulit sub Richardo Tyranno vitae discrimina, exilium atque carceres; à tri●bus regibus Hen 6. Edwardo 4. & Hen. 7. probata intege●●mi prudentissiani que p●tris fides nunquam in dubium venit. In condendis et repara dis pleris 〈…〉 magnificentiam, in pauperibus crebris Elcemosinis re●ocillandis, Indige●ttum liberis in literis studijsque alendis, notis atque familiaribus promo●endis, propinquis & Consanguineis, quibus opimas & honorarias haredi●ates atquisivit, ditandis, pretatem, liberalitatem & munisicentiam 〈◊〉 declaravit: ut in Testamento suo fusius apparet. Under a fair marble stone in the martyrdom, inlaid with brass, 〈◊〉 in erred the body of Henry Deane, an Oxford man, Doctor of Diuia●●●, sometimes Abbot of Lanthony, Chancellor of Ireland, Bishop of 〈◊〉 translated to Salisbury; and within two years after, advanced to this 〈◊〉 〈…〉 of Canterbury. He was a very wise industrious man, by who●e care and diligence, during his abode in Ireland, Perkin Wa●b●ck, who counterfeited himself to be Richard the young Duke of York, was forced to fly from thence into Scotland; He recovered diverse parcels of land to his Se● of Bangor, which were lost by his predecessors, for want of good loo● king to: amongst other, a certain Island between Holy-head and An● geesey, called Mo●lr. homicit, or the Island of Seales. He bestowed much money in repairing his Church and palace at Bangor, which had been burned and destroyed long before by Owen Glendow●, that famous rebell● during the time he sat here Archbishop (which was scarce two years) h● built the most part of Otford house, and made the iron work upon th● coping of Rochester Bridge. He bequeathed to his Church a silver image, of one and fifty ounces weight, and appointed five hundred pounds to be bestowed upon his funerals. He died, Februar. the fifteenth, at Lambeth▪ Ann. 1502. as appears by his Epitaph. Hic sub marmore iacet corpus reverendissmi in Christo patris et Domini D. Henrici Dene, quondam Prioris Prioratus de Lanthona; deigned Bangorens. ac successive Sarum Episcopi. Postremo vero huius Metropolitice Archiepiscopi; qui diem suum clausit extremum apud Lambish, 15. die mens. Feb. Ann. Domini 1502. in secundo Translationis ann. Cuius anime propitietur altissimus. In a little Chapel built by himself, lieth William Warham, William Warham Archbishop's Archbishop of this See. A gentleman of an ancient house in Hampshire, brought up in the College of Winchester, and chosen thence to the new College in Oxford, Godwin. where he proceeded Doctor of Law. Presently upon which, he practised as an Advocate in the Arches, than he was Parson of Barley in Hertfordshire as I find in that Church-windowes, and Master of the Rolls. He was sent Ambassador by Henry the seventh, to the Duke of Burgundy, concerning the two counterfeits, Lambert, and Perkin Warbeck, which the Duchess his wife had set up against him. In which business he behaved himself so wisely, as the King highly comm●nded him, and preferred him upon his return, to the Bishopric of London; and upon the death of Henry Deane, to this of Canterbury. He was also made Lord Chancellor of England by the same King; in which office he continued, until he was wrung out by Wolsey, Mat. Pa●ke●. Antiq. B●itan. the seventh of Henry the eight. The ceremony of his inthronization to Canterbury was performed in a most magnificent manner: the Duke of Buckingham, and many other great men of the kingdom being that day his officers. In his solemn and sumptuous feast, all his honours and offices were drawn, depicted, or delineated, after a strange manner, in gilded Marchpaine upon the banqueting dishes: and first because he was brought up in the University of Oxford, the Vicechancelour with the Bedels' before him, and a multitude of Scholars following him, were described to present to the King and the Nobility, sitting in Parliament, this William Warham with this laudatorie Tetrasticon. Deditus à teneris studijs hic noster alum●us, Morum et Doctrinae tantum profecit, ut Aulam Illustrare tuam, curare negotia Regni (Rex Henrice) tui possit honorifice. Which the King seems to answer thus. Tales esse decent quibus uti sacra maiestas Regnum in tutando debeat imperio. Quare suscipiam quem commendastis Alumnum Digna daturus ei praemia pro meritis. Rolls sometime a house of Conuert●, dedicated to the blessed Virgin. Then these verses upon his preferment to the Mastership of the Rolls. Est locus egregius tibi virgo sacrata dicatus, Publica seruari quo monumenta solent. Hic primo hunc situ dignabere dignor honore Commendo fidei scrinia sacra suae. Then upon his advancement to London these. Vrbis Londini cap●● O duleiss●me Paul Hic regat, et seruet Pastor ovile tuum. And again. Hic nisi praeclara morum indole praeditus esset, Haud peteretur ei tantus honoris apex. Then of his consecration and installation to this See, many verses were composed to explain the Artifice, to this effect. O Wilhelme veni Domini sis cult●r agelli, Esto memor qui● honour, quae tibi cura datur. Est minor ista tuis sedes virtutibus, illa * Thomae digna ●uis est potius meritis. And lastly (to omit a great many) the manner of the delivery of his pall (which is an Episcopal vestment com●ing 〈◊〉 be shoulders, made of a sheepskinn●, in memorial 〈…〉 that 〈…〉; and having the same, laid it ●pon his shoulders, 〈…〉 with crosses, first laid upon Saint Peter's coffin or 〈…〉 crowned, sitting in his glistering Throne, encompassed with his 〈…〉 of Cardinals: which he presents with this Dis●●chon. Amplior hic meritis simili potiatur honore Suppleat et vestrum sede vacaute 〈◊〉. The words at the delivery of the Pall to him, or to any other Bishop were these. Ad honorem Dei omnipotentis et B. Mariae Virgins, ac B●. P●tri et Pa●● li Apostolorum, et Domini nostri Alex. Pp. sex. et S. Ro●an●e 〈◊〉 nec non et Cantuariensis Ecclesiae tibi commissae tradimus pall●um 〈…〉 ●eati Petri sumptum, plenitudinem, viz. Pontisi ali● 〈…〉 utaris 〈…〉 Ecclesiam tuam certis diebus qui exprimuntur in priuileg●●s ●i ab Apos●●lic● sede concessis. The Pall being received, the Bishop takes his oath unto the Pope in these words. Ego W. W. Archi. Cantuariensis, ab hac hora, in ante● sidelis cro●t obediens B. Petro sanctaeque Apostolicae Romanae Ecclesiae, et Domino meo D. Alexandro Pp. Sexto suisque successoribus Canonice ●●tranti●us. Non ●ro in consilio aut consensu, vel facto, ut vitam perdant vel membrum, 〈◊〉 cap 〈◊〉 tur mala captione, Concilium vero quod nibi credi●●●i su●t per se aut 〈◊〉 tios ad eorum damnum me sciente ne●ini pa●dam. Papatum Rom. et ●ega●●a S. Petri adiutor ero cis ad retinendum, et desendend●m, saluo o●dine 〈◊〉, contra omnem hominem. Legatum sedis Apostolicae in eundo et redeundo honorificè tractabo, et in suis necessitatibus adi●●abo, vocatus ad Synedum veniam nisi praepeditus fuero Canonica praepeditione; Apostolorum limina Rom. curia existente citra Alpes singulis annis, ultra vero mo●tes singulis biennijs visitabo, aut per me aut per meum nuntium, nisi Apostoli●a absoluat licen●ia. Possessiones vero ad mensam mei Archiepiscopatus pertinentes non vendam, neque donabo, neque impignerabo, neque de novo insendabo, vel aliquo modo alienabo inconsulto Rom. Pontifice sicut me Deus adiwet, etc. The cross was delivered unto him by a Monk of this his Church in these words. Godwin. Reverend Father, I am the messenger of the great King, that doth require and command you to take on you the government of his Church, and to love and defend the same, in token whereof, I deliver you this his ensign. But I doubt I am tedious, I will draw to his end, which happened, August 23. 1532. after he had continued Archbishop eight and twenty years, and was buried without any great funeral pomp, mourning clothes being given only to the poor. He purchased much land for his kindred, and bestowed very much in repairing and beautifying his houses with fair buildings, even to the value of thirty thousand pounds, as he professeth; for which cause he prayed his Successors to forbear suit for dilapidations. His motto I find in many places of the palace, which was, Auxilium meum à Domino. I find no more Archbishops to be here buried, save Cardinal Poole, whom I reserve for another book. Sir William Molyneux Knight Banneret. Here sometimes was a monument erected to the memory of that valiant Knight, Sir William Molyneux, of Seston in Lanchishire, who at the battle of Navarret in Spain, was made knight Banneret, by Edward the black Prince, Anno 1367. under whose command he served in those wars, as also for a long time, in the wars of France. From whence returning homewards, he died here at Canterbury, Anno 1372. Whose Epitaph I have out of the pedigree of that honourable worthy gentleman, Sir Richard Molyneux of Seston, Knight and Baronet, and Viscount Marybourgh in Ireland, now living, who from the said Sir William is lineally descended. Miles honorificus Molyneus subiacet intus; Tertius Edwardus dilexit hunc ut amicus: Fortia qui gessit, Gallos', Navarre osque repressit, Hic cum recessit, morte feriente decessit, Anno milleno trecento septuageno, Atque his iunge duo: sic perit omnis home. Sir William Septvaus knight Bundella indenturarum Guerre 10. & 11. Sir William Septvai● Knight and Elizabeth his wi●e Icy gist Gulian Septvaus chevalier qui morust le dernier iour D'aust, ●an de Grace M. CCCC.VII. de quele alme Deux eit pite et mercy Amen. This Sir William served in the wars of France under Edward the third; as I have it in the Pell office. Sub hoc marmore iacent corpora Wilhelmi Septvans militis, qui obijt 4. die mens. Mar. Ann. Dom. 1448. et Elizabethe uxoris eius silly johannis Peche militia, que obijt 28. Mar. Sequenti, quorum animabus propitietur Deus. Sum quod eris, volui quod vis, credes quasi credis Vivere forte diu mox ruo morte specu. Cessis quo nescis, nee quomodo, quando sequeris, Hinc simul in celis ut simus queso preceris. Hic iacet Odomarus Hengham Ar. qui obijt 4. April Ann. Dom. 1411. he dwelled at Gowsted in Stokebury. Hic iacet expectans miserecordiam Dei, Sir john 〈◊〉 knight. prenobilis vir johannes Guil●eford miles, unus consiliariorum illustrissimi Regis, Hen. 7. qui quidem Iohannes obijt, 19 die mens. july 8. Hen. 7. Ann. 1493. Cuius anime pro●●tetur altissimus. jesu filius Dei miserere mei. Camden in 〈◊〉. Camden tells us that this family of the Guildfords is very ancient, but most eminent, ever since this Sir john Guildford (here interred) was Controller to the house to King Edward the fourth; whose son and heir Sir Richard, was, by King Henry the seventh, made Knight of the Garter: of his sons again Sir Edward Guildford was Marshal of Callais, Lord Warden of the Cinque-ports, and Master of the Ordnance, father to I●ne Duchess of Northumberland, wife to Sir john Dudley, Duke of Northumberland, mother of the late Earls of Wa●wick, and Leicester; of Guildford Dudley, beheaded with his wife the Lady jane; and of five sons and eight daughters besides: and Sir Henry was chosen Knight of the Garter by King Henry the eight, and had his arms ennobled with a Canton of Granado by Ferdinando, King of Spain, for his worthy service in that kingdom, when it was recovered from the moors; and Edward lived in great esteem in his country: To be brief, from this Sir john Guildford are issued by females immediately, the Darells, Gauges, Brew●es, Walsinghams', Cromers, isaac's, and Iselcies, families of prime and principal note in these parts. But I digress, and I crave pardon. Only let me tell you, that Sir Richard Guildford, aforesaid, served King Henry the seventh, s●pra mare cum 550. Nautis et Soldarijs pre duos menses. 5. Hen. 7. Thomas Fog iacet hic, iacet hic sua sponsa johanna: Sint celo cives per te Deus hos & O sanna: Sir Thomas Fog and and his wif●. Regni protector Francos Britones superavit. Nobilium Rector sicuti Leo castra predavit. Et quoque militiam sic pro patria per amavit, Ad summam patriam Deus hic ab agone vocavit. Fog, 〈◊〉 Annal. a name both of antiquity and eminency, one of which family, namely, Sir john Fog, was of the privy Council to King Edward the fourth, and sat with the Duke of Clarence, the Earl of Warwick, and the Lord Rivers in judgement, upon Sir Thomas Cook of Giddie-Hall in Essex. And I find one Sir john Fog, a warrior, in the beginning of the reign of King Henry the eight. But this great conquering Knight did flourish long before: he was the son of Sir Thomas Fog knight, buried at Glastenbury, by his wife the Countess of joyeux in France. And this joan his wife here buried, was the daughter and heir of Valons, or Valance. Hic iacent Wilhelmus Bruchelle (siue Brenchley) miles, Sir William Bruchelle and Ioanne ●is wife quondam justiciarius Domini Regis de communi Banco, qui obijt in Holborn in suburbo London 20. Maij 1406. et Ioanna uxor eius, que obijt 1453. Aug. 8. Here lieth Edmund Hawte Esquire ..... 1488. Hic iacet johannes Fyneux miles, Sir john Fyneux and Elisabeth his wife. et Elisabetha uxor eius filia ..... Paston ..... the rest gone. This Fyneux was Lord chief justice of the Common Pleas, the ●●▪ of Henry the seventh. . Hic iacet johannes Fynch de Winchelsey quond ●n prior huius Ec●lssie 〈◊〉 obijt ..... 9 die januar ...... edificta constructa & plura alia collata bona .... cuius anime .... john Finch Prior. Thomas Goldston Prior. Hic iacet reverendus pater Thomas Goldstone huius sacrosancte Ecclesie Prior, ac sacre pagine Prosessor, 〈…〉 Ecclesiam per annos 24.8. mens. et dies 16. optime 〈…〉 migravit ad dominum 16. Septemb. Ann. Dom. 1517. Cuius anim●▪ Plangite vos Cyth●ram plangentes carmine, mole Hic iacet occulta Religionis honos. 〈◊〉 Doctor Thomas Goldston vocitatus Moles quem pres●ns saxea magna tenet. O ●os spectantes huius ●um fure● a patris, Nunc est is memores fundite que so preces. Thomas ●lham Prior. Hic requiescit Dominus Thomam Elham quondam Prior huius Eccles●, quicum Ann. 2. mens. 11. et 4. dieb. honor●fice vixisset 20. Febru. 1440. obdormivit in Domino. Est niece substratus jon Woodnesbergh tumulatus, john Woodnesbergh Prior. Huius erat gratus Prior Ecclesie aumeratus; Quem colie ornatus hic tantus uhique novatus, Per loca plura datus fit sumptus testificatus: Auctor erat morum, probitatis, laudis, honorum, Largus cunctorum, cunctis dator ille laborum, Quique Prioratum rexit sub schemate graium. Annos hunc plenos per septenos quoque denos: Quadringentenis Mil. eius bis quoque denis Annis septenis domini nondum sibi plenis. ....... cum tibi Chrisle ... agone, Quem precibus pane radiantis forte corone. Hic iacet Dominus Thomas Chyllindene quondam Prior huius Ecclesie, Decretorum Doctor egregius, Thomas Chyllinden Prior. qui navem islius Ecclesie ceteraque diversa edisicia ..... qui post quam Prioratum huius Ecclesie 25. Sept .... et quinque diebus nobiliter rexisset, tandem in die Assumptionis beat Marie virgins diem suum clausit extremum, Ann. Dom. 1411. Cuius anime propi●ietur Deus. Amen. This man flourished under Archbishop Arundel, who entirely affected him, even from the time that he delivered him the Cross at Westminster, with all accustomed solemnity, in the presence of the King, and most of the Nobility. Preteriens flere, discas, et die miserere, john salisbury Prior. Et ne subsannes, quia victus morte johannes, Membris extensis iacet hic Sarisburiensis: Sic non evades, vindice morte cades. Hic Prior Ecclesie Doctorque fuit Theory: Wulstam festo feria quarta memor esto Mille quater centum X. V. daunt documentum Sint anime merces, lux, decor, & requies. Amen. Hic iacet reverendus pater Wilhelmus Selling huius sacrosancte Ecclesie Prior, ●illiam Selling Prior. ac sacre pagine Professor, qui post quam hanc Ecclesiam per ann. 22. men's. 5: et 24. d. optime gubernasset migravit ad Dominum. Die viz. passionis Sancti Thome Martyris, An. 1494. Doctor Theologie Selling Greca atque Latina Lingua predoctus hic Prior almus obit. Omnis virtutis speculum, exemplar Monachorum, Religionis honour, mitis imago Dei. Hic requiescit in gratia & miserecordia Dei Richardus Oxinden, quondam Prior huius Ecclesie .... qui ob. Aug. 4. 1338. R●ch. Oxinden Prior. Sub isto marmore requiescit corpus Magistri Richardi Willesford, Rich. Willford. quondam Capellani cantary de Arundel, cuius anime propitietur altissimus. obijt. 1520. Hic iacet Robertus Clifford Armiger, Robert Clifford. frater recolende memorie Domini Richardi Clifford Episcopi Londoniarum, quiob. 9 die mens. Martij. Anno Dom. 1422. Cuius, etc. Hic iacet sub hoc marmore expectans miserecordiam Dei, john Bourchier Archd. vonerabilis vir, Magister johannes Bourchier Archidiaconus Cantuariensis, qui quidem Iohannes migravit ad Dominum 6. die mens. novemb. 1495. Cuius anime de seta magna pietate propitietur Altissimus. Heus tu sistito gradum qui obambulas, William Gardiner Prebend. Et quod scriptum est legito Gulielmi Gardneri Candidati Theologie, Huius & Ecclesie olim prebendarij Ossa hoc clauduntur sub marmore. Obijt qui Sancti Michaelis .... luce Anno post milesimum & quingentesimum Quadragesimo quarto. Cui det Christus vitam, & tibi Lector, perennem. Holy cross Church in Canterbury. Hic .... Thomas Lynd primus Mayor Cant. & Constantia uxor eius ... Feb. 12. Ann. Dom .... Tho. Lynd and Constance his wife. Clemens Harding. Hic iacet Clemens Harding Legum Baccalrius .... Clauditur hoc tumulo .... Multorum causas defendere quique solebat Hanc wortis causam euader● non potuit: Doctus & indoctus moritur, sic respice finem Vt. bene discedas quisquis es ista legens. Saint peter's in Canterbury. Thomas Ikham and joan his wife. Thomas Ikham et Ione sa Femme 〈◊〉 Deiu de psalms eit mercy... 〈◊〉 Hic iacet Wilhelmus Ikham quondam cit. 〈…〉 qui obijt ... julij ... 1424. William Ikham. In Fenestris. Orate pro anima Wilhelmi Septvaus 〈…〉. Orate pro bono slatu Ioha●●is Biggs A 〈…〉. Cant .... Anno Dom. 1473. Saint Mildred's in Canterbury Thomas Wood and Margaret his wife. Orate pro animabus Thom● Wood 〈…〉. Hospitijre● 〈◊〉 patris in Christo Domini ... Maior is huius Cinitatis, qui i● honore jesu hanc capellam ●ieri fecit, et 〈◊〉 garete uxoris eius filie johannis Moyle Armigeri. Orate procis. The white Friar's observants. Out of a Mss. in the hands of john Philipo● Esq. ●●m He ●ald. Barth Lord Badlesmere Camd. in Kent. This religious house was founded by one Sir john Digges of this County, Knight, circa ann. 1207. and valued at the suppression a● 39 l. 〈…〉 ob. of yearly revenue. Herein were sometimes inte●●ed, 〈◊〉, Lord Badlesmere, Steward of the household to King E●ward the second, who for his good service gave to him and his heirs the Castle of Leedes in this County, which he perfidiously fortified against his Sovereign Lord and Master, and after that paid the due price of his disloyalty upon the gallows, Ann. 1321. Sir Giles B●dilsmere, or Badlesmere knight, his son: Dame Elisabeth Lady of Chilham: Sir William Mauston, knight, Sir Roger Mauston his brother: Sir Thomas Brockhall knight, an● Lady joan his wife: Sir Thomas Brockhall knight, son to the said Sir Thomas, and Lady Editha his wife: Sir Falcon Payserer knight: Sir Thomas Daynes knight, Lady Alice of Maryms: Lady Candlin: Sir Alan Pem●ington of 〈◊〉 in the County of Lancaster knight, who coming from the wars beyond Seas, died in this City. Lady Ladrie of Valence: Sir William Trussell, Sir William Baloyle, Sir Bartholomew Ashburnham knights, and Sir john Montenden, knight; and a Friar of this house; lie all here in terred. The black Friar's Minorites. Black Friars King Henry the third is said to be the founder of this house, in which were buried, Robert and Bennet Browne, Esquires: Bennet daughter of Shel●ings, and wife to Sir Edmund Hawte knight, and after wife to Sir William Wendall, knight. The Hospital of Saint james was erected by Elinor, the wife of the said King Ed. 3. valued at the suppression to 32. l. 2. s. 1. d. ob. Here sometime stood an house of black veiled Nuns, dedicated to S. 〈◊〉, founded by one of the Abbots of Saint Augustine's, esteemed to be worth upon the suppression 38. l. 19 s. 7. d. ob. per annum. These Nuns were endowed with the Church of Redingate with other revenues, and were to pay twelve pence yearly to the Monks of S. Augustine, upon his feast day, on the high altar. The Monastery of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, commonly called, Saint Augustine's. Annis sexcentis preter tres Anglia mundi, Christi nascentis micuit Baptismatis unda. The year of our redemption, six hundred and three (as these times do testify) Ethelbert, king of Kent, received the laver of Baptism in Saint Martin's Church, at the hands of Saint Augustine: within two years after that, he began the foundation of this Monastery. As I have it out of this his Charter, in the red book of Canterbury. In nomine Domini nostri jesu Christi. Omnem hominem, qui secundum Deum vivit, & remunerari à Deo sperat & optat, oportet, ut puris precibus consensum hilariter & ex animo prebeat. Quoniam certum est tanto facilius ea que ipse à domino poposcerit, consequi posse, quanto & ipse libentius Deo aliquid concesserit. Quocirca ego Ethelbertus Rex Cantie, cum consensu venerabilis Archiepiscopi Augustini ac Principum meorum do & concedo in honorem Sancti Petri, aliquam partem terre inris mei, que iacet in oriente civitatis Dorobernie: ita duntaxat, ut monasterium ibi construatur, & ●es quam supra memoravi, in potestate Abbatis sit, qui ibi sucris ordinatus. 〈◊〉 adinro & precipio, in nomine Domini Dei omnipotentis, qui est omnium Rex judex iustus, ut presata terra subscripta donatione sempiternaliter sit confirmata; ita ut nec mihi, nec alicui successorum meorum Regum ant Principum, sive cuiuslibet conditionis dignitatibus, & Ecclesiasticis gradibus, de ea aliquid fraudare liceat. Si quis vero de hac donatione aliquid imminuere ant irritum facere tentaverit, sit in presenti seperatus à sancta communione corporis & sanguinis Christi, & in die juditij ob meritum malitie sue, à consortio Sanctorum omnium segregatus. Dorobernie Anno ab incarnatione Christi Sexcentesimo q●into. Indictione octava. Ego Ethelbertus Rex Cantie sana ment integroque consilio, donationem mea●● signo sancte Crucis propria 〈◊〉 nu roboravi con●irmanique. Austin did also confirm and strengthen King Ethelberts' donation by his own Bull or charter, and exempted this Abbey from all archiepiscopal jurisdiction, 〈…〉 Abb 〈◊〉. Aug. Mss. in lib. Co●. Varijsque reliquijs Divorum quas Roma avexerat, orna●il. Inter quas suit pars inconsutilis Domini tunicae, et virge Aaron. And enriched it with diverse relics of Saints which he had brought with him from Rome; amongst which was a part of Christ's seamelesse Coat, and of Aaron's Rod. And here by the way observe, that Austin sealed his deeds or charters, bulla plumbea, Harsfeld Hist. 〈◊〉 Angl. Sex. S●cul. with a leaden Bull, which many ages afterwards, Richard Archbishop of Canterbury, went about to infringe and infirm, Quod is signandi modus Romanis Pontificibus proprius esset: Because that manner of signing was proper to the Bishops of Rome; About which time Philip, Earl of ●landers, sent over into England the like Bull of a certain Bishop, by which he and the Bishops before him used to seal their writings The revenues of this Monastery were augmented by King Edgar of which will it please you read his Charter. 〈◊〉 Regis Edgar's. In nomine Trino divino Regi reg●anti in perpetuum. Domino Deo Sabaoth, cui patent cuncta penetralia cordis ei corporis, etc. Ego Eadgarus Rex Anglorum, do et concedo Sancto Augusti o Anglorum Apostolo, et Fra●●. 〈◊〉 in illo sancto Cenobio conversantibus, Plumpsted. in Kent. terram quatuor aratrorum que nominatur Plumstede: Hanc ergo terram ●um consensu Archiepiscopi Dunstant optimatumque meorum libenti animo concedo pro redemptione anime me, ut came teneant perhenniterque habeant. Si quis vero heredum Successorumqu● meorum hanc meam donationem seruare vel amplificare staduerit, seruetur ei benedictio sempiterna. Si autem sit, quod non optamus, quod alicuius Persone Homo diabolica temeritate insligatus surreperit, qui vel hanc meam donationem infringere in aliquo temptaverit; Scia● se ante Tribunal summi et eterni judicis rationem esseredditurum, ●isi ante digna et placabili satisfacti one Deo et sancto Augustino Fratribusque emendare voluerit. Ego Edgarus Anglorum Monarchus hoc donum roboravi. Ego Dunstanus Archiepiscopus consensi, etc. These lands being taken away by Earl Godwin; and given to his son Tostic; were restored back again to this Abbey by the Conqueror. Whose letters patents ran in this form. In nomine sancte et indiuidue Trinitatis, patris et silij et spiritus sancti. Ego Wilhelmus Dei gracia Rex Anglorum, Carta ●illelmi C●no●estoris. statum Eccl●siarum Regne mei corroborans, et vacillata hactenus in melius confirmans, atque iniuste ablata restituens. Concedo et annuo sancto Augustino et Fratribus suo Cenobio commorantibus terram que dicitur Plumstede. Hanc terram à pr●memorato Sancto Augustino et Fratribus loci antiquitus possessam, Godwynus comes fraud et vi iniuste abstulerat, et suo filio Tostit dederat: quam tamen Rex Edwardus postea Sancto reddiderat, sit varijs eventibus possessa, ablata, restituta, neiam ulterius calumpnie pateat, aut cuiusquam querimonia à Cenobio Sancti Augustini supradictam villam auferat, inde Cyrographum hoc confirmo ut came habeant, tencant possideant Monachi Sancti Augustini in perpetuum. Si quis antem huic nostre authoritati contrarius boc violare presumpserit, eterna maledictionis dampnatione se mulctandum noverit, et regie vindict subi●cebit. Ego Wilhelmus gratia Dei Rex Angloram hanc cartam confirmo, et meis firmandam committo. Ego * ●a●le of Kent. Odo Archiepiscopus Baiocensis Calumpniam quam in ipsa terra habebam relinquo, et lubens subscribo. Ego Wilhelmus Londonens. Episcopus subscribo, etc. But this Abbey was endowed with ample revenues by many others, so that being valued at the dissolution, like the rest of all such religious foundations at a favourable and far underrate, it amounted to be yearly worth 1412. l. 4. s. 7 d. ob. q. It was surrendered 4. Decemb. 29. Hen. 8. Saint Austin replenished this house with black Monks, Benedictines, and ordained it to be the place of Sepulture for the kings of Kent, for himself, and all succeeding Archbishops. The first king here interred, was the foresaid Ethelbert, who, after he had gloriously reigned the space of 56. years, and had enlarged the frontiers of his Empire, as far as the great River Humber, entered into the eternal bliss of the kingdom on heaven. The year of our redemption 616. and in the 13 year after he had received the Christian faith. As I find it in this old Manuscript. Ethelbert cleped the hely king of Kent In the yer of grace six hundred and sixteen Deide, and of Christendom the xxi y ween. Six and fifty Winter he had regnyd her And aftur Edbald his son regne 'gan ther. He was buried on the North side of the Church, upon whose Monument this Epitaph was engraven. Rex Ethelbertus hic clauditur in Polyandro, Fana pians certe Christo meat absque Meand●●. King Ethelbert lieth here closed in this Polyander, For building Churches sure he goes to Christ without Meander. Berta his wife was here likewise interred, who was the daughter of Chilperick, king of France, who was grandchild to Clovis, the first Christian king of that famous nation; this woman was converted to Christianity before she came out of her own country, and before Augustine's arrival here in England, Beda. lib. 〈…〉 25.26. and was married to king Ethelbert, with these conditions made by her parents. That it should be lawful for her to keep inviolable the rites of her Religion, and enjoy the presence and instructions of her learned Bishop Luitharde, whom they appointed to assist and help her in matters of her faith. She was a woman of virtuous and holy inclination, spending much of her time in prayer, almsdeeds, and other works of charity; frequenting daily her Oratory, within Saint martin's, a Church built in former times by the believing Romans; wherein her reverend assistant Luitardus used also to instruct, and exhort the people to newness of life, and Religion: so that by her example, and his preaching, many of the Kentish Paynims were brought in, to believe the glad tidings of the Gospel. These proceedings with his wife's persuasions, wrought so effectually with good king Ethelbert, that his heart was softened, and his ears already opened to receive and embrace the doctrine of S. Austin. Whereupon some do gather, that the happiness of his, and his Subject's conversion may as well be attributed to Berta, Wil Malmes. de gestis Rev, lib. 1. ca 1. Speed. Hist. and her French attendants, as to Austin and his fellow-disciples. Of which an old nameless Rhymer very ancient. When Ethilbert had reigned bot a yer, Sent Awstyn him to christian faith convert, through goddies graze, as clearly did apere, Who had to wife Berta, that was advert To christian faith, in France afore convert; That helped thereto with all hur diligences As Awstyn did with all benyvolens. She was likewise an earnest parswader, and a partaker with her husband Ethelbert in and for the propagating and erecting of Religion, and religious structures; as I observe out of the same Author. King Ethilbert with rial great expense great minsters made of high revyrens In Rochestre and eke in Canterbery For Bysschoppys sees, that were full necessary▪ at London eke sent Pawles edified, In which so then should be the Bysschoppies See, Thus hely C●yrch that Pains there fortified Wythe all kind thing that was necessary, For sustenauns of the Christyante. So did his wyff hur part with all hur might, To fortify the christian in thayr right. This blessed Queen died before her husband, near unto whom he desired to be buried, ann. 622. for whom this Distich was composed. Moribus ornata iacet hic Regina beata Berta, Deo grata fuit ac homini peramata. Edbald king of Kent. Here sometime lay the body of Edbald entombed, king of Kent, the son and heir of the before named Ethelbert, by his Queen Berta; who began his reign as wickedly as his father ended his worthily: for he refused to entertain the doctrine of Christ, Beda li. 2. cap. 5. and polluted himself by the marriage of his mother in law, his own father's second wife: but at length being converted by Archbishop Laurence, from his idolatry, and incestuous matrimony, he endeavoured by all means possible to propagate and maintain the state of the Gospel. The king of Kent Edbald his furst wife forsook R●b. Glocest. And held him to his Christendom yat he furst took. And built a Chapel within this Monastery, in honour of Mary the blessed mother of God, endowing it with sufficient maintenance, wherein after the continuance of 24. years' reign, Emma the wif● of K. Edbald he was buried, ann. 640. His wife Emma the daughter of Theodebert, king of Lorraine was buried by him. Ercombert kin● of Kent, and Sexburgh his wife. Here lieth Ercombert the son of the said Edbald, king of Kent, a religious king; who suppressed all the Temples of the heathen Idols, and commanded the fast of Lent to be observed. His wife Sexburgh, daughter of Anna king of the East Angles was laid by him; Beda. li. 2. cap. 8 This King having reigned four and twenty years and odd months, finished his days, ann. 664. Egbert king of Kent. Egbert succeeded his father Ercombert; and if the murder of his two cosingermans had not much blemished his peaceable government, he might well have holden place with the worthiest of the Kentish kings. Will. Malmes. de gest. Reg. Aug. Stow. Speed. He died in the tenth year of his reign, anno 673. and was buried here by his predecessors. Mow. Annal. And so in like manner this Church was honoured with the sepulchers of Lothaire, Withered, Edelbert and other Kentish kings, and also with the shrines of many English Saints, whose sacred Relics (as they were then esteemed) brought both great veneration and bencht to this relig●ou● Structure. The first man of eminency that I find to have b●ene enshrined in this Abbey, was Saint Augustine, the first Archbishop of this See of Canterbury; a Roman born, and a Monk of Saint Benet's order, who, with others, was sent hither out of Italy, by Gregory the great, Pope of Rome, to preach the word of God to this our English nation; he with his fellows, to the number of forty persons, landed in the Isle of Tenet within this County; where they were shortly after visited of king Ethelbert But the story is frequent, and I shall be often touching upon it by the way, and hi● Legend is too long for my intended short discourse; therefore I hope the Reader will rest contented with this abbreviation for both. Whils Ethelbert was reigning king of Kent Saint Austin sent by Gregory of R. bishop Landed in Tenet, with Clerks of his assent, And many Monks to teach the saith I hope, That clothed were under a black cope: Which in Procession, with crosses and Bells came, The Latinies singing in jesus his name▪ In the year of christ his incarnation, Five hundreth fourscore and sixteen; King Ethelbert had in his domination Al● Kent throughout, with great joy as was seen Were baptised then in holy water clean, To whom Gregory sent Mellito and justo With other Clerks and Doctors many more. Gregory him made Archbishop of Canterbury, Of all England highest than Primate: And had the * Pa●●. Paul with highest legacy By Gregory sent to him and ordinate. Fro London then thus was that time translate To Canterbury, the sea Metropolitan And London set as for his suffrigan. Saint Augustine then with help of Ethelbert Saint Augustine's made, and Christ's Church also That Christ's Church hight as it was adverte And sacred so by him, and hallowed tho For the chief Sea Metropolitan so Of all England by Gregory ordinate, And Saint Augustine of all England Primate. This man was of an exceeding tall stature, well favoured, of a very amiable countenance, but of his learning, I find little worthy of remembrance: sine doctrina sana docebat (saith one) ac sine perceptibili lingua ignotae praedicabat genti. Bal●. Centur. prima. He died the 26. of May, in the thirteenth year of his first entrance into England, and was buried first without doors, near to the Church of this Monastery, because the Church was not finished: and afterwards his body was removed into the North Porch of the said Church; in which place five of his Successors were likewise interred. Upon the Tomb of this Austin this Epitaph was ensculpted in Latin: thus translated. Here resteth the body of Augustine, the first Archbishop of Canterbury, that was sent into this Land by Saint Gregory, Bishop of Rome, approved of God by working of miracles, and that brought Ethelbert the king and his people from the worshipping of Idols, unto the faith of Christ; the days of whose office being ended in peace, he deceased, May 26. the said king Ethelbert yet reigning. But from the Porch his body was removed into the Church, for in the year of our salvation 1221.5. Kalend. Maij. john de Marisco▪ then Prior of this Monastery, with the rest of his Covent, being desirous to know the place where the body of this Archbishop their patron, was deposited (after fasting and prayer) caused a wall to be broken near to Saint Augustine's Altar, where they found a Tomb of stone, sealed and close sh●t up with ●on, and lead, having this Inscription. Inclitus Anglorum Presul pius, et decus altum; Hic Augustinus requiescit corpore sanctus. And in the year 1300.3. Kal. Augusti, Thomas Findon (then being Abbot) enshrined his relics in a more sumptuous manner, adding another Distich to the former, expressing his affectionate love to the said Saint Austin his patron. Inclitus Anglorum Presul pius, & decus altum; Hic Augustinus requiescit corpore sanctus. Ad tumulum landis Patris almi ductus amore, Abbas hunc tumulum Thomas dictavit honore. But for the continuance of this man's memory, this Monastery itself (howsoever demolished) surpasseth all funeral Monuments, Inscriptions, or Epitaphs; for in regard he was the procurer of the building thereof, the names of Saint Peter and Paul are now (and were many hundred years since, quite forgotten) and the whole fabric called only S. Augustine's. Austin a little before his death, consecrated his companion Laurence, Archbishop of this See, the next to succeed him in his government, lest either by his own death (as Lambard observes) or want of another fit man to fill the place, the chair might happily be carried to London, as Gregory the Pope had appointed. Of which consecration my foresaid Manuscript. Than Awstyn made Laurence Archebysschop thar Whyls that he was on live for he would nowght It vacond work ne void when he deed war, So mickle than on it he set his thowght Of covetyse of good, nothing he rowght Ne of Estate ne yet of dignity But only of the church and cristente. Laurence (by allusion to his name cal●ed L●urige●) thus conse 〈…〉 ceeded the said Augustine, & being archbishop, 〈…〉 exhortation, by works of charity, and 〈…〉, and by 〈…〉 a godly life, to continue and increase the number of Christian 〈◊〉. And like a true Pastor and Prelate, solicitously care●, not only 〈◊〉 the Church of the Englishmen, but also for the old inhabitants of 〈◊〉, of Scotland, and Ireland, amongst whom the sparkles of Christianity were already kindled. The foundations of this Church being now well 〈◊〉 strongly laid, the main thing that thwarted his religious designs▪ 〈◊〉, that Edbald king of Kent, would not with all his godly exhorta●●ons 〈◊〉ing a vicious young man) be brought from his Paganism, to believe in the only everliving God. And that his people following the example o● 〈◊〉 king, returned likewise to the filthy vomit of their abominable Idolastre. Laurence perceiving at last, that neither his reprehensions nor fair words took any effect, but rather incited the King and the Subject to a more desperate hatred of him, and of his Religion, determined to depart the kingdom, to follow Bishop justo and ●ellite before banished, and to recommend the charge of his flock to God, the careful Shepherd of all men's souls But the night before the day of his intended departure (saith Beda) Saint Peter appeared unto him in his sleep, Beda li. 2. ca 6 and reprehended him sharply, for purposing to run away, and to leave the sheep of jesus Christ, beset in the midst of so many Wolves; he challenged him with Apostolical authority, argued with him a long while very vehemently, and, among all, scourged him naked so terribly, as when he waked, finding it more than a dream, all his body was gore blood. Thus, well whipped, he went to the king, showing him his stripes, and withal related unto him the occasion of those so many fearful lashes: which struck such a terror into the king, as by and by he renounced his Idols, put away his incestuous wife, caused himself to be baptised. And for a further testimony of his unfeigned conversion, built a Chapel in this Monastery of Saint Peter. Of which I have spoken before Of which more succinctly thus in my nameless Manuscript. The folk of Estesex and of Kent after the death so of king Ethilbert, And king Segbert that was of Estesex gent Whos son's three, than exiled out full smart The christian faith and wox anon pervert Susteyning hole their old idolatry Melote and just had banyshte out for thy. But Laurence than Archebysschop and primate, For woe of that to god full sore than prayed Porposing eke to leave all his estate, And follow just and Mellet that were strayed Out of the land, so were they both afraid But that same night as Laurence was on sleep Sent Peter so him bet iyll that he weep. That all his hyde of blood full fast 'gan run Saying to him wh● will thou now forsake The floke that I the took and did ●y s●nne, Among the wo●●es to ravyshe and to take, Thou hast forget, how I for god's sake Suffered be●yng, prison, and death at end For his serv●nds that he had me commend. Wherefore on morrow he came to Ethelbalde. And showed him all how sore that he was bet In what wise and by what wight him told Wherefore it was withouten longer let For which the king was full of sorrow set In haste did send for Just and eke Melite And them restored there where they were acyte. To teach the faith and void Idolatry, To baptise eke as was expedye●t, The which they did as was than necessary. The Archebysschop died that height Laurence The year of Crist with good benyvolence. Syx's hundryd hole and there withal nyntene Leving this world for heavens blyse I ween. This Laurence writ a learned book of the observation of Easter, and some exhortative Epistles to the Bishops and Abbots of the Scottish, Irish, and British Churches; beseeching, and praying them to receive and keep the society of Catholic observation, with that Church of Christ which is spread over the whole world. He died the same year that Edbald became Christian, Februar. 3. An. Dom. 619. and was buried in the Church Porch beside Augustine his predecessor. For whom this Epitaph was composed. Harps●eld Hist. Angl. Eccles. Secul. 7. ca 7. Hic sacra Laurenti suut signa tui Monumenti, Tu quoque iocundus Pater, Antistesque secundus. Pro populo Christi scapulas do● sumque dedisti Artubus huc laceris multa Vibice mederis. Mellitus, sometime an Abbot of Rome, succeeded Laurence in this grace, and Ecclesiastical dignity, Mellitus Archbishop. sent hither by Saint Gregory, to assist Augustine in the service of the Lord, by whom he was first consecrated Bishop of London; during his abode in that place, he converted unto the faith of Christ, Sebert king of the East Saxons. Of which this Stanza: out of Harding. Peter the first Abbot of Saint Austin●. Then Austin made Peter a clerk devout, Of Saint Austin's th'abbot religious, And made Mellito, as Bede clearly hath note, Of London then bishop full virtuous: A Clerk that was then benevolous, Who then converted of Essex the king Sebert, And all his land baptised with holy heart. But the wicked sons of this good King Sebert expelled Mellitus out of their dominions; from whence he traveled into France, and there stayed for a time, Beda. li. 2 〈◊〉 until he was commanded by Archbishop Laure●ce to retain and look to his flock. He was a man noble by birth, but much more noble for the excellency of his mind; an eloquent speaker; and therefore abusively called of some, Mellifluous, exceeding careful of his charge, despising the world, and never caring for any thing but heaven, and heavenly things: Godwin. de P●●●●l. Ang. having been sick a long time of the Gout; he died April 24. ann. 624. and was buried beside his predecessor. Upon whose Tomb this Epitaph was engraven. Summus Pontificum flos tertius et mel apricum; Hac titulis clara redoles Mellite sub arca. Laudibus eternis te predicat urbs Dorovernis Cui simul ardenti restas virtute potenti. Presently upon the death of Mellitus, justus Archbishop. justus then Bishop of Rochester, was preferred to this archbishopric. He was a Roman borne, the disciple of Gregory the great, by whom he was sent over into England, to preach the Gospel. Ha●p●feld Hist. Aug. ca 7. He was a Monk after the order of Saint Benet: Vir tantae integritatis vi iusti nomine non tam gentilicio, quam propter virtatem honorandus censeretur. Which his virtue, as also his learning are both highly commended by Pope Boniface the fourth, Beda li. 2. ca 8. to whom, as to his dear beloved Brother, he sendeth greeting. He died novemb. 10. ann. 634. was buried by his predecessor, Io. C●ygraue. and canonised a Saint and Confessor. But hear his Epitaph. Istud habet bustum meritis cognomine justum Quarto iure datus cui cessit Pontificatus, Pro meritis justi sancta gravitate venusti: Gratia divinam divina dat his medicinam. Honorius a reverend learned man, Honorius Archbishop. borne in the same City, brought up under the same Master, and one of the same order with justus, succeeded him in his pontifical Government. During the time he sat, which was somewhat above twenty years, Beda. li. ●. ca 9 amongst other things, he appointed diverse Bishops to diverse countries, and divided his Province into Parishes, of which I have spoken before, that so he might appoint particular Ministers or Priests, to particular congregations. In his time the Pelagian heresy began to spring up again in Scotland; but by his exhortatory divine Epistles to the Clergy of that kingdom, he so dealt, that the poisonous infection of that contagious heresy spread not far, neither continued any long time. He died Februar. 28. Ann. 653. and was laid with his predecessors. This was his Epitaph. Quintus honor memori versu memoraris Honori Digna sepultura, quam non teret ulla Litura: Ardet in obscuro tua lux vibramine puro Hec scelus omne premit, fugat umbras, nubila demit. One Frithona (famous for his learning and virtuous life) being elected Archbishop, Deus dedit Archbishop. upon the day of his consecration changed his name, for Deus dedit, or Adeodatus. He was the first Englishman that governed this See: which charge he attended carefully the space of six years, and died july ●4. Ann. 664. being the very same day that Ercombert the king of Kent died; he was the last Bishop buried in the Church-porch. Such was his Epitaph. Alme Deus Dedit cui sexta v●catio cedit, Signas hunc lipidem, lapidi 〈…〉 e●dem Prodit ab hac urna 〈…〉 a●urna Qu● melioratur quic 〈…〉 gra●atur. Theodore Archbishop. Theodore a Grecian, Saint Paul's 〈…〉, borne in Tharsus, succeeded Deus de●it. He was sixt●e six year●● of age before he undertook the charge of this archbishopric, in 〈◊〉 he continued two years, three months, twenty seu●n days, until 〈…〉, which happened Sept. 29. anno 690 A man he was (to omit particulars) worthy of perpetual remembrance for his singular virtues, Bed●. li. 5. cap 8. Edem ●ib. 4. ca 2. under whom the Church of England received much comfort and increase in spiritual matters. He was excee●dingly well learned, both in profane and holy literature: he would often visit the country of the Englishmen all over, and teach them the waye● and paths of good life. He was the first Archbishop unto whom all the whole Church of the English Nation did yield, and consent to submit themselves; He writ many learned books, mentioned by B●●e; he was the seventh Archbishop, of whom these verses were written upon the wall in Latin, now translated thus into English. Seven Patriarches of England, Primates seven, Seven Rectors, and seven * Seven stars in Charles wain. Babaurers in heaven, Seven Cesterns pure of life, seven Lamps of light Seven Palms, and of this Realm seven Crowns full bright, Seven Stars are here interred in vault below. Harpsfe●d. ca 8 〈◊〉. 7. These verses were common to a●l these seven pillars of the English Church, for so they are called; yet every one, as you have read, had his particular Epitaph, and this following went curiant for Theodore, thus Englished by the Translator of venerable Bede. Beda ●i. 5. cap. 8. A worthy Prelate lieth here, fast closed in this grave, To whom the name of Theodore the greeks most justly gave, With title right the sovereignty having of each degree. Christ's flock he fed with true doctrine, as all men do well see, His soul was set at liberty (that lumpish lump of clay Dissolved) when September had put nineteen days away. And coveting their fellowship that live a godly life, Is companied with Angels high, void of all care and strife. Brithwald Archbishop. Brithwald (called like others allusively Bright world) Abbot of Reculuer, some two years after the decease of Theodore, was elected and consecrated Archbishop, by one Godwin, Metropolitan of France. He was a man very well learned, both in Divinity and humanity, and very skilful both in Ecclesiastical and Monastical orders, censures, and disciplines, but far inferior in all unto his predecessor He continued Archbishop in this f●●med, seven and thirty years, six months, fourteen days: a longer time than ever any did either before or since; and died januar. 9 ann 731. and was buried in this Abbey Church: because the Porch was already filled with the dead bodies of his predecessors: for whom this Epitaph was 〈◊〉, and engraven upon his Monument. Stat sua laus feretro Brithwaldus stat sua metro Sed minor est metri laus omnis laude feretri. Laude frequentandus, pater hic & glorificandus; Si pr●ce slectatur, dat ei qui danda precatur. Tatwin a man very religious, and no less learned, succeeded Brithwald; soon after whose consecration, great controversy arose between him and the Archbishop of York, about the Primacy: wherein Tatwin prevailed. Who having sat only three years, died july the last day, An. Dom. 735. and was buried here in the Church by his predecessor. To whose memory this Epitaph was cut upon the stone coffin. Pontificis glebe Ta●wini Cantia prebe Thura, decus, laudes, & cuius dogmate gandes▪ Hu●us doctrina carnisti men●e ferina; Et per cu● Christi pe● tore iugum dedicis●i▪ Here sometime lay interred the body of Nothelme, Archbishop, who for that he well and wisely governed his See, was called, Noble helm. 〈◊〉 was borne in London; and was one of the Priests of Saint Paul's, a great lover of venerable antiquity he was, and one to whom Bede acknowledg●th himself to be much beholding for diverse matters; which, upon his ●●port, he inserted into his Ecclesiastical History. He died October 17. An. 74●. His Epitaph was after this manner. Hac scrobe Nothelmus iacet Archiepiscopus almus. Cuius vita bono non est indigna patrono. Cunctis iste bonus par in bonitate Patronus Protegit hic iustos vigili munimine Custos. Cuthbert Archbishop of Canterbury, not long before this time had procured of king Eadbert, that the bodies of all the Archbishops which were to succeed, should not be buried at Saint Augustine's, as they had been heretofore, but at Christ-Church; and so, according to his desire, the funerals of himself, and his successor Bregwin, were there solemnised, and their bodies therein interred. The Monks of Saint Augustine's took the matter heinously, to have the burial of their Archbishops discontinued, and began to make complaint unto the Pope. But Christ-Church men were so far from fearing the Pope (for the same Pope had confirmed their privileges but a little before at the suit of Bregwin) that they chose one Lambert, or jainbert, Abbot of Saint Augustine's for their Archbishop: assuring themselves he would be now as earnest a defender of their liberties, as heretofore he had been an oppugner in the behalf of Saint Augustine's. But they found it otherwise, for perceiving his end to approach, he took order to be buried in S●●nt 〈◊〉, but he was the last of all the Archbishops there in 〈…〉 Archbishop ●7. years, and lived ninety four: his funerals were 〈…〉 pomp and celebrity, and his body honourably entombed here in 〈◊〉 Chapterhouse. Upon which this Epitaph was engraven. Gemma Sacerdotum 〈…〉 remotum, Clauditur hac fossa 〈…〉 & ●ssa. Sub hac molecinis, 〈…〉 ●inis Incola nunc celi populo 〈◊〉 ●ideli. I find some Epitaphs to the memory of sundry Abbots of this Monastery; and first, Peter the first Abbot of S. Augustine's. of the first Abbot, one Peter a Priest, who was chosen to this place by Saint Augustine, as I have said before. This man was sent Legate into France, by king Ethelbert, and in his return for England, was drowned in a Crecke, 〈◊〉. 1. ca 33. called Amflete; his body was taken up, and buried after a homely manner of the inhabitants of that country; yet afterwards removed from thence, and honourably interred in the Tow●e of Bulley●e. in a place of Saint Mary's Church convenient for so worthy a person. For whom a Monument was erected within this Abbey, bearing this Inscription▪ Lib. 5. Aug. in bi● Cot. Gul●el Spina. Quem notat hunc metrum meritis & nomine Petrum Abbas egregius primus Laris extitit huius. Dum semel hic transit mare ventus in urbe remansit Bolonia celebris virtutibus est i●i crebris. He was drowned about the year, 614. My old Anonimall Manuscrip speaks of this first Abbot to the like effect. Than Austyn mad Peter the chief Prelate Of an Abbey, now called saint Aus●yns In Canterbery, of which denominat He was Abbot, as sent Bede dyffyns, Who after as he to France was sent fro thence On embassyat, was drowned on the se, And buried at Boleyne with solemnity. Whar great virtue God for him showeth Full oft, as there plainly is recordyd, And to this day yet always renewyth: So ho●e he was with Crist myserecordyd, And with his seynts truly ever concordyd; As seynt Bede saith right in his dialogue, Among the seynts is put in Cathologe. Iohn ●●e second Abbot john a monk of this house, and the third man of note which came over with Austin, was elected Abbot of this house, and received benediction at the hands of Archbishop Laurence. He died, Ann. 618. and was buried here in our Lady's Chapel, and this was his Epitaph. Omnibus est annis pietas recitanda johannis Culmine celsa nimis p●tribusque simillima primis. Vir probus & mitis fu●● hic si fare velitis Integer & mundus sap●ens Abbasque secundus. Ruffinian was here interred by his predecessor john, Ruffinian the third. who died, Ann. 626. Pausa patris sani patet istec Ruffiniani Abbatis terni, quo frenditur hostis Auerni. Gratiosus succeeded Ruffinian in his holy government: Gratiosus the fourth. a man gracious, saith mine Author, with God and all good men. And so ended his worldly pilgrimage, Ann. 640. Hic Abbas quartus Gratiosus contulit artus, Cuius adest pausa miti spiramine clausa. Petronius was sacred to this Ecclesiastical dignity by Archbishop Honorius, Petronius the fifth. Ann. 640. and died Ann. 654. Abbas Petronius bonitatis odore refertus. Subiectos docuit, vitiorum sorde pianit. Nathaniel vir probitate decoratus, Nathaniel t●e sixth. and absolute in all perfections, was consecrated Abbot here in his own Church, by Archbishop Deusdedit, which he laudably governed thirteen years, and died, Ann. 667. Spiritus in celis Abbatis Nathanielis, Nos faciat memores Patres memorare v●litis. Adrian borne in Africa; Adrian the seventh. Abbot first of the Monastery of Niridia, near unto Naples: a man wondrous well learned in the holy Scriptures, throughly instructed both in Monastical discipline, and Ecclesiastical government; very skilful of the Greek and Latin tongues, and withal very expert in the liberal Sciences of Astronomy, and Music: who, together with theodore, Singing first used in English Christian Churches. Bed. lib. 4. cap. 2. brought first of all in, the tunes and notes of singing in the Church, which for a little time was only used and known here in Kent, but afterwards learned and practised through all the Churches of England, by the means of reverend Bishop Wilfride, who brought from Kent james and Stephen, two Musicians, the first Masters of song in the Churches of the kingdom of Northumberland. But to descend to more particulars. The archbishopric of Canterbury was offered to this Adrian, by Vit●ll●am the Pope (that excellent Musician, 〈◊〉 pageant of Popes. who wrote the Ecclesiastical Canon, and first brought singing and Organs into the Church) which he refused to undertake, preferring a Monk of his acquaintance, namely, Theodore, (spoken of before) to the same place, in whose company he traveled into England, and had the company and help of this Adrian, in all things he went about to effect within England. He was consecrated Abbot of this Monastery by the said Theodore, in the government of which, he continued nine and thirty years. In which time he obtained many privileges of Theodatus the Pope for his Abbey, as also of Oswin king of the Deirians. He died honae memoriae senex, a reverend old man of good and perfect remembrance, ann. 708. and was honourably entombed here in our Lady's Chapel, with this Epitaph. Qui legis has apices, Adriani pignora, dices Hoc sita sarcophago sua nostro gloria pago. Hic decus Abbatum, patrie lux, vir probitatum Subuenit à celo si corde rogetur anhelo. These seven Abbots (above mentioned) were all outlandish men, sent hither either at the first to accompany Augustine, or afterwards Mellitus and justus in their journey from Rome. Albinus the eighth. Albinus the Scholar of Adrian, and Abbot of this house, was here interred, who as he followed his Master in his office, so did he in all his good and godly ways. And so died in the 24. year of his Abbotship, 732. and was buried by his Master. Laus Patris Albini non est obnoxia fini Gloria debetur sibi quam sita vitae meretur. Multa quip bonos faciens virtute patronos Abbas efficitur bonus hic et honore petitur. Nothbald the ninth. Shortly after the decease of Albin, one Nothbaldus a Monk of this fraternity was chosen Abbot: in which office he continued about sixteen years, died ann. 748. and was buried near his predecessors. Nothbaldi mores rutilant inter Seniores, Cuius erat vita subiectis norma polita. Aldhume the tenth. Aldhumus was the next Abbot, in the time of whose government the burial of the Archbishops was taken away from the Church of this Monastery, by the cunning sleight and overswaying authority of Archbishop Cuthbert, as I have partly touched: but howsoever, his holy brethren of this Covent did impute all the fault unto the supine negligence of their Abbot, in that he did not more carefully defend this their common cause. Whereupon after his death, which happened, ann: 760. some 12. years, they fastened this Epitaph upon a pillar near to the place of his burial; bewraying the viperous malice of this Monkish brood to him their deceased father. Fert memor Abbatis Aldhumi nil probitatis, Pontificum Pausani cassat tutans male causam, Prisca premens iura dum Cuthbertus tumulatur. Fulta sepultura sanctis per eum reprobatur. Lambert the eleventh. About a year Lambert or janibert (before remembered) was Abbot of this house, afterwards Archbishop. He procured six plough lands of ground to this Abbey, of king Edbert, in little Mongham. Ethelnothes, Guttardus, * Cunred near of kin to Nenulph the Mercian king. Cunred and Wernod procured 40. plough lands of ground of the kings of Mercia and Kent to their Monastery. Vt in charta Cunredus; Wernodus, cousin to Offa and Cuthred kings of Mercia and Kent, of whom this Wernode obtained many rich gifts for this his Monastery: Diernodus, Wintherus, Readmundus, Kimbert, etam, Degmund, Alfred, Ceolbert, Bectane, Athelwold, Vlbert, Eadred, Alchmund, Sittulfe, Cadred, Luling, Beorline, Alfricke, who by his familiarity with king Edmund, obtained two ploughland to his Monastery. Elsnoth, Siricius who was first a Monk in Glastonbury, than Abbot of this Monastery, from hence preferred to the Bishopric of Wiltshire, and thence removed to this Primatship of Canterbury. A man much blamed in our ancient Histories, for persuading with his countrymen to buy their peace with the Danes (who had invaded Kent and ●ss●x) with the price of sixteen thousand pounds. Wulfrike Elmer, a man of great holiness, from hence advanced to the Bishopric of Sherborne, and after some years (falling blind) gave over that government returned to this Abbey, wherein all the rest of his days he led a private life. * Elstan first Prior of the house, whom king Knute would have preferred to the Bishopric of W●nchester, which he denied, neither would he have taken this, but by the importunate suit of his brethren. These Abbots (above named) some twenty eight in number, succeeded one another, of whom albeit we may believe that many memorable and good actions were performed: yet time, which weareth all things out of remembrance, hath left little of them remarkable to this age. Wulfrike the second succeeded Elstan, Vir probi consilij, and often employed upon Embasies to the Pope. He translated the body of Saint Mildred into another place of the Church: he died suddenly, ann. 1059. by the just judgement of God (saith the story) because he neglected the beautifying of our Lady's Chapel, being thereto commanded by S. Dunstan who had conference in a vision with the blessed Virgin concerning that matter. Upon the death of Wulfrike, one Egelfine succeeded, and received benediction from Archbishop Stigand, about the year 1063. he was sent about I know not what Embassy to Pope Alexander the second, to whom the Pope gave this honour, That it should be lawful for him and his successors to use the mitre and apostolic Sandal. But presently upon his return home, he fled over Seas into Denmark, for fear of William the new Conqueror. And being no sooner thus gone (without licence first obtained) his goods were confiscate to the King: and one Scotland, by birth a Norman, invested in his place. This Abbot received many gracious favours from the Conqueror. He recovered much land unjustly taken from his Monastery, with diverse immunities. He was a great cause for the confirmation of the ancient Franchises and liberties of Kent; he built a great part of his Church anew, and removed the bones of Adrian, and other Abbots, with the bodies of four Kentish kings, being but obscurely buried, and entombed them in the Choir of the Church under princely Monuments; he died the third day of September, ann. 1087. and was buried in a vault under the Choir in S. Mary's Chapel. Abbas Scotlandus prudentibus est memorandus ...... libertatis ...... dare gratis Actu magnificus, generosa stirpe creatus Viribus enituit sanctis sancte quoque vixit. One Wido was the next Abbot, Wido the 42. who repaired the Tomb or Shrine of Saint Augustine: he died August 13. ann. 1091. and was buried in a vault under S. Richard's Altar. Whose tombstone was thus inscribed. Hunc statuit poni tumulum mors atra Widoni Cui stans sede throni superi det gaudia doni. Hugh de Flori 4●. One Hugh de Flori, or Floriaco, a Norman borne, near a kin to the Conqueror, under whom and his son William Rufus (being a strenuous and an expert Soldier) he had served in the wars both of Normandy and England, Guliel. Spina in bib. Cot. who coming with William Rufus upon a time to visit Saint Austin's Shrine, would needs be made a Brother of this Fraternity; which being granted, he sold forthwith all his lands in Normandy (having neither wife nor child) and took upon him the Monastical habit: This Hugh had scarce continued one year of probation, when as the foresaid Abbot Wido departed the world; upon whose death the Monks of Saint Austin's coming to William Rufus to obtain licence to elect a new Abbot, the king swore by Luke's face that he would have no election at all, for he intended to take all the spiritual livings of England into his own hands; Well, for this time they went away with each one a flea in his ear, yet afterwards it was decreed, that two circumspect grave Monks, together with this Hugh de Flori, should be sent to the king to procure his favour for an election, either by petition, or price; when these presented themselves unto his sight, and that he saw his cousin, who before had served him in the bravery of a Soldier, to be now clothed in the habit of a Monk; he was so dismayed in mind, that gushing out with tears, he said, I do grant you this Cousin of mine to be your Abbot, and at your petition I do give him the government of the Abbey of Saint Augustine, neither do I permit you to choose any other, whom, unless you do presently receive, I will shortly burn your Abbey to ashes. Then the Monks seeing no remedy, submitted themselves to the kings will in the premises. But the foresaid Hugh refused the dignity, saying, That he was a man in a manner unlettered, and one that had very little skill, as well in religion, as in Ecclesiastical ordinances; yet the king and the Monks enforced him to accept of the honour offered, neither would the king suffer him to depart from the Court, before he was consecrated Abbot, which was solemnised in the king's Chapel at Westminster, by Mauricius Bishop of London. I have been somewhat long in this narration, yet, I hope, nothing at all troublesome, or tediously impertinent. This illustrious Abbot did many laudable acts to the great commodity of his Church; and distributed all his goods in works of charity. He died full of years as of goodness, the 26. of March, ann. 1120. and was buried on the North side of the Chapterhouse built by himself from the foundation: for whom this honourable remembrance was engraven. Abbas Eheu Floris specimen virtutis, honoris, Hic iacet in tumulo, Presul peramabilis Hugo. Floruit ut terris, Pater hic, pace & quoque guerris; Floret nunc celo Christi pugil iste sereno. Hugh the second 44. The next Abbot in succession was one Hugh de Trottescline Chaplain to King Henry the first, at the time of whose election, great dissension, for small trifles, being betwixt the Monks of Christ-Church, and those of this Monastery, William then Archbishop taking part with those angry Votaries of his own house, denied Abbot Hugh ●enedict●on which 〈◊〉 was glad to obtain from Seffria the first, Bishop of 〈◊〉. This man brought in again the old number of his Monks, which were threescore professed, beside the Abbot. He founded an Hospital near to his own Abbey, which he dedicated to the honour of 〈◊〉 and Saint 〈◊〉 to the maintenance whereof he give ●●ne Acres of ground, upon which 〈◊〉 Hospital was to be erected, and all the ●●the of the Lordship of 〈◊〉 in this County, with other possessions, 〈◊〉 at the 〈…〉 7. s. 10. d. of yearly revenue. This Hospital was ordained and appointed especially for this 〈…〉 if it should so happen that any protest Monk of this Monastery, 〈…〉 infected with any contagious disease, but above a●● with the 〈…〉 reason of which sickness, or infectious malady, he could not 〈…〉 the precincts of the Abbey, without prejudice and scandal to the 〈…〉 ●●●er●●tie, that then he should be provided for in this Hospital of a conue●n●ent chamber, of meat, drink, and apparel, in as full a measure as any one of his Brothers living in the Monastery. Also, if it should so happen, that the father, the mother, the sister, or brother, of a●y Monk of this Monastery, ●hou●d come to such great want and ●nd●gencie as that (to the reproach of any of these brothers) he, or she▪ be forced to ask at the gates, the alms of the Fraternity, that th●● such of them so ask, should be provided for in this Hospital, of sufficient ●●●●stentation, according to the ability of the house, by the advice and consideration of the Abbot of Saint Augustine's, and the Master of this Hospital, for the time being, as further appears by his Charter, confirmed by many of his Successors. This charitable Abbot died the year 1151. and was buried in the Chapter house by his Predecessor. Silvester, the Prior of this Monastery, being elected Abbot upon the decease of Hugh, was denied Benediction of Archbishop theobald, objecting against him, that he was a man defamed with many notorious offences but clearing himself before the Pope (by what m●●●es or money I know n●t) of all those enormous imputations laid to his charge, upon the sight of the Pope's letters, the Archbishop durst not but give him admi●ta●●● This Silvester instituted, that every year during the time of Lent, so many poor people should be provided for of meat and drink sufficient, at 〈◊〉 and the charges of the Abbey, as there were Monks in the Covent. 〈◊〉 died ann● 1161. and was buried by his predecessor. One Clarembaldus (a lay man I think, for he never wore other than a secular habit) by the king's regal authority, d●d now irregularly intrude upon the possessions, goods, and government of this Abbey, which by main violence he extorted, and misapplyed for the space of 15. years, until he was elected: and one Roger a Monk of Saint Trinity, and keeper of an Altar in Christ-Church, was elected to his place. This Roger within a short time came greatly into the king's favour, who restored unto him all the lands and possessions which Clarembalde had wickedly wrested from his Monastery. He was consecrated by Pope Alexander the third in his own person at Tusculane, near to Rome; to whom and to his Church, the said Pope restored the use of the mitre, Sandals, and crosier, which had been neglected ever since the flight of Abbot Egelfine, (who first obtained that honour) into Denmark. This man endured many miseries the most part of his life-time, (which was very long) especially in the troublesome reign of king john. And so to conclude with the words of mine Author. Will. Thorn, or Gul. Spina, in bib. Cott. Anno Domini 1212. obijt Sen●x, & plenus dierum, qui diebus suis pro viribus multa adversae sustinuit, sed omnia Deo cooperante illesa custodivit; & in capitulo sub lapide albo sepelitur. Cum tali Inscriptione. Antistes iacet hic Rogerus in ordine primus, Pastor devotus, quondam, nunc nil nisi simus. Mortu●s in cista requiesci● nunc semel ista; Qui viws mundo parum requievit eundo. Roger being dead, one Alexander a Monk of this Monastery, and a most excellent Divine, Alexander surnamed Cementari●● Theologus the 48. was elected Abbot, a man both in secular and Ecclesiastical affairs well experienced, and of king john singularly beloved, yet for all his good parts and great friends, Archbishop Langton absolute●ly denied him Benediction: for it was in that time when the king and the Bishop were at sore variance; so that he was constrained to travel to Rome, where he received consecration at the hands of Pope Innocent the third. Obijt Abbas iste Deo dilectus nocte, viz. Dominica 4. Non. Octob. An. 1220 This Abbot was, Vir corpore elegantissimus, fancy venerabilis, & literarum plenitudine imbutus. And for taking part with his Sovereign: à summo honore in summam confusionem viliter praecipitatus erat, saith Mat. Westminst. ad An. 1209. Hugh the third the 49. Abbot. By the general consent of the whole Covent, one Hugh, Chamberlain of this house, was elected, sworn, and blessed by the Pope's Legate at Winchester, before the king and many of the Peers of the kingdom. This Abbot was religious, honest, provident, and with learning, and a godly life life greatly adorned; and so departed from all worldly employment, the third day of November, 1224. and was buried by the Altar of the holy Cross under a flat marble stone, thus engraven. Prosuit in populo Domini venerabilis Hugo, Et tribuit sancte subiectis dogmata vite. Robert de Bell● the 50. A provident and discreet Brother of this house succeeded Hugh in the Abbotship, to whom in like manner as he did to Alexander, the Archbishop utterly denied benediction, and admittance; for which he was enforced to travel to Rome, and there was sacred by the hands of Patrick Bishop of Albania, and Cardinal, by the Pope's commandment. This Abbot's name was Robert de Bello, & belle rexit, for the space of eleven years. Et obijt crastino sancti Mauri Abbatis, ann. 1252. His Epitaph. Abbas Robertus virtutis odore refertus Albis exutus iacet hic à carne solutus. Roger the second 51. Roger of Cicester by way of compromise succeeded Robert, for whose admittance, or holy blessing, Pope Innocent the fourth writ his powerful letters to Boni●●●●▪ then Archbishop of Canter●ur●; but what 〈…〉 took I do not find. He founded the Church or Chapel of 〈…〉 in this County, and sumptuously ●●sh●yned the relics of Saint 〈…〉 He died on Saint 〈◊〉 day, 1272. and was buried before S. 〈…〉 Altar, under a marblestone, with his portraiture engraven thereupon, and this short Epitaph. Prudens et verus iac●t hac in ●●robe Rogerus Constans et lenis, pop●li pastorque fid●lis. The next that enjoyed this dignity was, Nicholas de Spina, he was con●secrated at Rome by the Bishop of Portua, by the commandment of Pope Nicholas the third, of whom he was approved to be, Virum prudentem, 〈◊〉 us et doctrina multipliciter decoratum, in temporalibus et spiritualibus 〈◊〉 Who when he had with great wisdom governed his 〈◊〉 the s●a●e of ten years, he took his journey, by the king's permission to the Pope, before whom he resigned his Abbotship to one Thomas Fi●●on. 〈◊〉 Findon succeeding by way of resignation; bad benediction by the Pope's appointment at Ciutta Vecchia, Thomas Findon 〈…〉 not far from Rome: he performed 〈◊〉 worthy actions for the good of his Church, and was ever ready with 〈…〉, and armour, for the service of the king: With great care and cost 〈…〉 the relics of Saint Austin, as I have said before: 〈…〉 had strenuously governed his Church the space of 26. years, 〈◊〉 eternitatis vocatus erat die sancte juliane virgins, ann. 13●9. and was buried in a little Chapel (wherein usually every day a Mass was 〈◊〉 for the whole Estate of the Church militant upon earth) under a marble stone inla●d with brass after the manner of a Bishop. With this Epitaph. En iacet hic Thomas, morum dulcedine tinctus, Abbas egregius, equitatis tramite cinctus. Firma columna Domus, in iudicio bene rectus, Nec fuct hic Presul dono um turbine ●l●xus. In pietate pater, inopum damnis miseratus Nec frauds patience curarum Presbyteratus jussu Pontificis summi .... capit isle C●tibus Angelicis nos Thome iungito Christ. After the death of Findon, one of this Fraternity, called Ralph de Borne, Ralph de Borne the 54. was elected. Who presently upon his election, took his journey to Avi 〈◊〉 the Pope's Court, where he was confirmed and consecrated by the Bishop of Ho●tia. Having laudably governed this house 25. years, he died a venerable old man, ann. 1334. and was here honourably entombed in the Northwall. Pervigil in populo morum probitate decorous Abbas hoc tumulo de Borne iacet ecce Radulphus, Mille trecentenis triginta quater quoque plenis In Februi Mense celo petebat inesse. This man is commended by Pope Clement the fifth (as I find it in the red book of Canterbury) to have been Abbatem Religionis feruidum, Mssan bib. Cot. Zelatorum morum, et etatis gravitate decorum, scientia preditum, in spiritualibus providum, et in temporalibus circumspectum. Thomas Poucyn the 55. In the same year, the first of March, Thomas Poucyn, Doctor of Divinity, was chosen Abbot of this Monastery; he took his journey for benediction, to the Pope's Court, which then lay at Auinion in France, the nine and twentieth of the same month of March, whither he came upon Saint George his Eve following: he had his admittance and blessing at the hands of Pope john the two and twentieth, the day after the feast of Saint Barnaby; he stayed at Auinion until the feast of S. Laurence, from whence taking his journey for England, he landed at Dover upon S. Gregory's day. Now if any man of his coat, dignity, and revenue, be desirous to know the expenses of a journey to Auinion, here he may have it, taken out of the red book of Canterbury, In bib. Cot. to a single halfpenny. His expenses from Dover to Auinion, which he performed in three weeks and three days, came to the sum of 21. l. 18. s. 2. d. his expenses staying there, from S. George his Eve, until the Eve of S. Laurence, 18. l. 4. s. 5. d. ob. and in his voyage back to this Monastery, his expenses came to 28 l. 8. d. About some nine years after this travel, he made an end of all his travels by death, on the day of the translation of Saint Augustine, ann. 1343. being all his time a careful Shepherd over the flock committed to his charge: he was entombed by his predecessor. Est Abbas Thomas tumulo presente reclusus, Qui vite tempus sanctos expendit in usus. Illustris senior, cui mundi gloria vilis. L.U. à primo pastor suit huius o●ilis. William Drulege the ●6. The next that succeeded Poucyn, was one William Drulege, a man of stature, like little Zacheus, but of a mind immense and vigorous; or like Homer's noble little Captain Tydeus, corpore paruus ingenio pugnax. Mayor in exiguo regnabat corpore virtus. For to enlarge the revenues of his Church, he was ever wondrous solicitous, and in defence of her liberties stout and magnanimous: persisting still as devout and watchful in his Ecclesiastical contemplations, as he was wise and circumspect in his temporal employments. Non quarendus quantus sit quisque seà qualis, neque quam procerus sed quam probus: A little man is as much a man as the greatest man of the Gard. But I may be thought quickly to speak somewhat partially, being none of these high puissant pikemen: enough then of little men, if not a little too much. So to return to this diminutive Abbot Drulege, who by the consent of the Covent, ordained the feasts of janibert, Nothelm, Brithwold, and Tatwin, Archbishops, to be celebrated twice in the year; But to conclude, when for the short time he sat, he had much advanced his Monastery, he died on the Vigils of Saint Mauritius, which is the 11. of September, 1349. and was buried in the Chapter house, with this Epitaph upon his Monument. En paruus Abbas hic parua clauditur arca, In gestis magnus, maior nec erat Patriarcha. Willelmus Druleg illustri dignus honore, Conuentum claustri qui multo rexit amore. Pro dilectoris anima tui dulciter ora Sancti Augustini conventus, qualibet hora. I find little, or indeed nothing at all, of such Abbots as succeeded little Drulege, saving their names thus recorded. john Deveniche the 57 Thomas Colwell 58. Michael Peckham 59 William W●ld 60. Thomas Hunden 61. Marcellus Dandlyon 62. john Hawlherst 63. George Pensherst 64. jacob Sevenoke 65. William Selling 66. john Dunster 67. john Dygon 68 Thomas Hampton 69. and john Essex 70. So that by this account there hath been more Archbishops of Christ-Church, More Archbishop, than Abbots by three. than Abbots of Saint Augustine's by the number of three, reckoning those six Bishops which have been since the dissolution: The Abbot of this house was ever a Baron of the Parliament. In S. Ann's Chapel within the Church of this Monastery, julian Coun●e●●e of H●ntington. lay sometime buried the body of julian the daughter and heir of Sir Thomas L●yborne, knight. The widow, saith Vincent, of john Lord Hastings of Aburgaveny, and mother of Laurence Hasting, Catal. in Hunting. Earl of Pembroke▪ and after that, wife of William de Clinton, Earl of Huntingdon, and Lord high Admiral of England, who died about the year 1350. But of all these and thousands more here interred (whose names I cannot learn) not one bone at this time lies near another, nor one stone almost of the whole fabric stands upon another: therefore I will take my leave of this Abbey with these words of a late writer: Io. Spe●d. 〈…〉. This Monastery (saith he) as all the rest did, came to her fatal period in the days of king Henry the eight, whose uncovered walls stood so long languishing in time, and storms of weather, that daily increased the aspect of her ruins, till now last, they are made subject to other public uses, and the whole tract of that most goodly foundation in the same place no where appearing. Only Ethelberts' Tower in memory and honour of the man, as yet hath escaped the verdict and sentence of destruction; whose beauty, though much the faced and overworn, will witness to succeeding ages the magnificence of the whole, when all stood complete in their glory together. The revenues yearly of this house were in the Exchequer, 1412. l. 4. s. 7. d. ob. q. it was surrendered 4. Decemb. 29. H. 8. At Harbaldowne, Priory of Ha●●baldowne. not far from this Monastery, Archbishop Lan●rank built an Hospital, and dedicated the same to the honour of Saint john, to the which he annexed a Priory of black Canons, valued both together at the dissolution to 266. l. 4 s. 5. d. ob. of yearly revenue: it was ordained for the lame, and diseased; which as yet is not altogether suppressed, although much abated (as I hear) of her annual possessions. In which house was reserved the upper leather of an old shoe, Lamb. peram in Harbaldowne. which had been worn (as they gave it out) by Saint Thomas Becket: this shoe, as a sacred Relic, was offered to all passengers to kiss; fair set in copper, and crystal. Hackington, commonly called S. Stephens, by Cant. Lora Countess 〈◊〉 Leic●ster. 〈…〉 Catal. This Church in former times was honoured with the sepulture of Lora, or Lor●atta, Countess of Leicester, daughter of William Lord Brews of Brember in Suffex, and wife of Robert de Be●lemont, surnamed Fitzp●rnell, Earl of Leicester, and Lord high Steward of England; a most honourable Lady, Ca●den in Kent. who having abandoned all worldly pleasures, sequestered herself wholly from the world, to serve God devoutly in this place: who died about the year 1219. The manor and Town of Elham was her inheritance. Sir john Gower and Sir john De●e Priests. Hic iacet Dominus johannes Gower, nuper Vicarius istius Ecclesie, qui obijt Decemb. 27. 1457. Cuius an●●e. Hic iacet Dominus johannes ●●ne, quondam Vicarius istius Ecclesie, qui obijt 8. Aug. 1457. Cuius anime p●●pittetur altissimus. Sir Christopher Hales, and Sir Roger Manwood, lie here fairly entombed, of whom hereafter according to my method. Sir Roger Manwoods' Almshouse. But I must not let pass seven alms houses here built by the said Sir Roger Manwood, chief Baron of the Exchequer, ann. 1573. for aged honest poor folks, which he endowed with a yearly allowance of four pounds, in money, bread, and fuel, for every one of those almesmen. It was called S. Stephens, f●r that the image of Saint Stephen (standing where the garden now is, A pilgrimage● 〈◊〉 S. Stephen's 〈◊〉. belonging to Sir Manwoods' great house) was sought unto by many pilgrims. Reculuer. At the upper end of the South isle in this Church, I saw a Monument of an antique form, mounted with two spires. Wherein (as the Inhabitants have it by tradition) the body of one Ethelbert, Ethelbert the second king of ●●nt. a Saxon king, who had his palace royal here in Reculuer, lieth entombed, and the Anuals of Canterbury affirm as much: And true it is that Ethelbert the first, and first Christian king, built here a Princely mansion for himself and his successors; wherein diverse of the Kentish kings sometimes kept their courtly residence. But whether he be this Ethelbert the second, or Ethelbert surnamed Prens, that lieth here interred, it is not much material, for they both died without any memorable act, either of themselves, or their kingdom's affairs: The end of the Kentish kingdom. and so died Cuthred and Baldred their next successors, and the last kings of Kent. Which kingdom erected by Hengist, the year of man's happiness 455. continued her government 372. and ended her glory in the year 827. being made a Province to the Westsaxons. The found 〈…〉 the Abbey at Reculuer. Egbert, or Egbright (the seventh king of Kent in succession, after Hengist) gave to one Bassa an English Saxon, some land here in Reculuer, whereupon he built him a Minster, or a Monastery, whereof Brightwald afterwards Archbishop of Canterbury, was the first Abbot: so that of this man and the Minster the poor Towns men may make great vaunts. Here lieth ..... Sandwey, Esquire, and ●oane his wife, who died 1437. Hen. sex. 16. ... Sandwey & 〈◊〉 his wife. Sir Thomas a Priest. Hic iacet Dominus Thomas .... qui ob ..... Vos qui transitis Thomam deslere velitis, Per me nunc scitis quid prodest gloria ditis. Minster in the Isle of Tenet. Here in this Church lieth a Lady entombed in a Monument upreared after a strange fashion, ●dila Lady thorn. inscribed with a Saxon-like character. Ici gist Aedile de Shornerepust Dame deal espire. I think her name was rather Thorn, than Shorne, one letter being mistaken for another in the engraving. My reason is this, for that in this Parish there is a place called Thorn. Near unto this Monument lie three flat Tombe-stones, under which (as I conjecture) by the effigies upon them) three vailed Nuns of the Saxon Nobility, Thr●e veiled Nun's and of S. Mildred's Monastery lie interred, but the Inscriptions are gone. Which Monastery was founded upon this occasion: Egbert king of Kent aspiring to the Crown, The foundation of Minster Abbey. by the traitorous murder of his two young Nephews, Ethelred and Ethelbert, to pacify Domneva, sister to the said murdered Princes, and immediate heir to the kingdom, promised with an oath to give her whatsoever she would demand. This devout Lady begged so much ground to build a religious house upon, Io. Ca●graue in v. ●a Dom. as a tame De●re which she kept, would run over at a breath: one Thunnor, or Thymur (one of his council, and his assistant in the foresaid murder) standing by, blamed him of inconsideration, for that he would upon the uncertain course of a Deer, depart to his certain loss, with any part of so good a Soil. Which words he had no sooner spoken (saith the book of Saint Augustine) but that the earth immediately opened and swallowed him up. Well, the King and the Lady proceeded in their bargain, and the Hind ran over forty and eight Plough●lands, before she returned. This do nation the king confirmed by his Charters, Mss●a bib. Cot which I have read in the book of S. Augustine's, to the infringers whereof he added this fearful curse. Si cui vero hec largicio displicet, vel si quis (quod absit) hanc donationem telo ductus Diaboli, A Maledicton. quoquo ingenio infringere temptaverit, Iram Dei & omnium Sanctorum maledicta incurrat, et subita morte intereat, sicut predictus Deo odibilis Thimur interijt, percutiatque cum Deus amentia, cecitate, ac furore m●ntis, omnique tempore columpnam maledictionis Dei sustineat, non sit qui eum liberet, nisi penitus resipiscit & digna satisfactione satisfaciat. And further of this and the race of the Hind, these lame rhymes. Dompneve letam Thanatos fert Insula metam Seruet iter Cerue ...... nesit .... proterue. Cultor sive sator huius meet violator Cum Thunor atra metit inde Barathra petit. Having erected her Monastery, which she dedicated to the blessed Virgin Mary, The death of Domneva. and to the name and honour of her two murdered Brethren, in which ●he placed seventy veiled Nuns: She departed out of this world about the year of our redemption, 765. and was buried in the Church of her own foundation. It is said by some, that when Thunnor had given his wicked command to king Egbert, The burial of Thunnor. 〈◊〉 Dom. his horse 〈◊〉 presently a curuetin●▪ cast him off his back, and broke his neck: and that be 〈◊〉, buried in the Isle of Tenet, under a great heap of stones, which the inhabitan●●, to this day call Thunniclan. ●. Mildred. Mildred the daughter of Dom●●●a, and M●rwald, a Prince of West-Mercia, succeeded in her mother's pl●●●▪ ●n which she continued a long time: died in the reign of King 〈◊〉, was interred by her mother, and afterwards canonised a Saint 〈◊〉 the Mercian king, confirmed by his charter to this Mildred and her Covent, the custom of the ships which arrived in the public Port of London, as appears by his charter. Ca●utus king of England, gave by his Charter the body of this Mildred, with the lands belonging to this Priory, to the Abbey of S. Augustine's, in these words. Notum sit omnibus, etc. me dedisse Augustino, & fratribus eiusdem Monasterij, corpus beate Mildrede gloriose Virgins; cum t●ta terra sua infra in sulam ac I●anet, & extra, cum omnibus cons●etudinibus suis. 〈◊〉 on of Mildred. The year 10▪ 0 her body was translated by Abbot Elstan, as I have said before, and after that by his Successor Wulfrike, to another place of the Church. Her relics were laid in a leaden coffin, whereupon this Epitaph was ensculpted. Clauditur hoc saxon Mildreda sacerrima virgo. Cuius nos procibus adiwet ipse Deus. The bodies of the most esteemed godly in former ages, took the least rest in their graves, for they were still removed, and their bodies clattered together from one place to another; as it doth, and will appear, both by the premises and sequel of this my Treatise. You have read before how often the body of Saint Augustine was tossed from porch to pillar, and besides his Relics were divided, and subdivided into certain vessels. For the day after the solemnity of Prior Marisco (before remembered) upon the finding out of his Stone-coffin, there was found, unlooked for, a Lead of seven foot long, having this Inscription. Hic habetur pars ossium & cineris beati Augustini Anglorum Apostoli, qui olim missus à beato Gregorio, gentem Anglicam ad fidem Christi convertit, cuius preciosum capud, & ossa maiora, Guido Abbas honorifice transtulit, sicut tabula plumbea cum eisdem ossibus posita indicat. But Henry the eight made an end of all this unnecessary trouble, and charges, by removing once for all, as well Relics, as Religious houses. Now to return. . Ethelinga the third Prioress of this house, seeing the Church builded by her predecessor Domneva, not capable to contain so many holy Virgins; built another Temple far more sumptuous than the first, which was consecrated by Archbishop Cuthbert to the honour of S. Peter and Paul. She died ann. 751. and was buried in her own new Church. Sexburga (saith the book of Saint Augustine) the daughter of Anna, king of the East Angles, the wife of Ercombert, the mother of Egbert, and ●othaire, all kings of Kent; after the death of her husband took upon her the habit of a Nun, and was admitted and consecrated Prioress of this place, by Archbishop Cuthbert. In her time those furious Beare-whelps, Hunger and Hubba (Nam ut fertur filij fuere cuiusdam ursi, Hunger and Hubba the sons of a Bear. M●ss●in bib C●●t Caygraue i●●nia 〈◊〉 b. 〈◊〉 qui illos contra naturam de filia cuiusdam Regis generabat) two Danish Pagans with a fierce army first invaded this kingdom. She died about the year 797. and was buried in this new Church. Capgrave saith at Ely. Seberitha was the first Votary admitted, and consecrated Lady Prioress of this house, by Ethelard Archbishop of Canterbury, who was no sooner well settled in her government, then that the Danes came back again, and in their savage fury overwhelmed the Island of Tenet, destroyed, and utterly demolished this Monastery; and her, with her holy Sisters, enclosed in secret caves for fear of the enemy; they found out, and burned them all to ashes. Capgrave, Eadburgh 〈◊〉 first English Nun, surnamed 〈◊〉. a Kentish man borne, reporteth that Eadburgh the daughter of good king Ethelbert, by his virtuous Queen Berta, was brought up a Nun in this Monastery, under the foundress Domneva, that she succeeded Mildred in the Monastical government; that she was buried here in this Church, and that long after, her relics (the chief and most frequent way in those times to enrich any new built Church) were removed by Lanfrank, Archbishop of Canterbury, to the Church of Harbaldowne of his own foundation, Camden in K. and there had in great veneration. But Camden, to whom I must needs give more credit, speaking of S. Eadburghs Well at Liming in this Tract, will have her to be the first veiled Nun in all England. And that she lived here in a Monastery of her own building, that here she died, Speed. Hist. and here at Lyming was buried, saith Speed, that she was surnamed, Tace, a fit name for a woman, and that she had been the wife of Edwin king of Northumberland. Sandwich: Before the general suppression here, was a religious house of white Friars Carmelites, The foundation of the white Friars, and of the old Hospital. founded by one Henry Cowfeld an Almain, Ann. 1272. and an Hospital founded by Thomas Rabing, William Swan, Clerks, john Goddard and Richard Long. In a book of this order of Carmes, written by john Bale, of which I have spoken in the prefixed discourse, A Manuscript. I find the Foundation of this Religious structure, as also certain Epitaphs made to the memory of diverse of the Fraternity therein interred; in this manner following. Anno Domini M.CC.LXXII. fundatus erat Conuentus Sandwici, per Henricum Cowfeld de Alemania. Epitaphium Magistri Fratris Thome Legatt qui obijt, Anno Domini, M. CCCCIX. Carmelita Thomas Legatt qui Theologie Tho. Legatt. Doctor erat quondam, conditur hoc lapide. Epitaphium Fratris Thome Hadlow. Hic Prior iste Hadlow nunc hoc sub marmore tectus, Tho. Hadlow. Turmas celicolas adeat nostra prece vectus. M.C. quater, & X. sep●eno transijt anno, Huic deci●o sexto Septembris lumina nexo. Magister Frater Willelmus Becklee hic sepultus, cum hoc Epitaphio. William Beckle●. Nunc me petra tenet, saxoque includor in isto Et lacerum vermes laniant nunc undique corpus. Quid mihi divicie? quid alta palacia prosunt? Cum mihi sufficiat paruo quo marmore claudor. Quam fastus, quam pompa levis, quam gloria mundi Sit brevis, & fragilis humana potencia quam sit, Collige ab exemplo, qui transis perlege posco. Obijt Ann Dom. M. CCCC.XXXVIII. john Sandwich. Epitaphium Magistri johannis Sandwich, huius Conuentus Prioris perquam amabilis. Subiacet huic Tumbe devotus ment johannes, De Sandwich dictus, huiusce Prior que domus. Mille quadringentos tres annos congere lumen, Quindecimam junij sumite, tempus habes, Quo sors superna rapuit de corpore vitam Fundito queso preces ut sit ei requies. Denis Plumcooper. Epitaphium Fratris Dionisijs Plumcooper. Cuspide lethisera mors que premit impia cuncta, Mole sub hac geliàa clausit & ossa viri. Qui rogitat nomen cognomen postulat ipsum, Hoc Dionisius est Plumcooper illud erat. Mollibus hic annis Carmeli dulcis alumnus Extitit, & placide Pacis amator erat. Ad canos veniens nature iura reliquit Mors dedit & lassis artubus hic requiem. Valedicit mundo xx. Febr. Ann. Dom. MCCCC. LXXXI. The foundation ●f the free School. Ann. 1563. Sir Roger Manwood before remembered, native of this place, founded here a free School, which he endowed with forty pounds of yearly revenue. Richborow. Right famous in former times (saith Camden) was the City of Richborow, whereof now nothing remains, save certain walls of a Castie of rough flint and Britain bricks, in form of a Quadrant. Over the entry whereof is the head of Queen Berta (as some say) graven in stone, the wife of King Ethelbert, who here had a royal palace. The Romans had their Precedents or Provosts who had the government of this City, of which I find but only two to have been here interred, namely, Flavius Sanctius, and Claudius Contentus, the one ruling with all peace, the other living in all riches and prosperity: whose memories are thus preserved by the Poet Ausonius: Militiam nullo qui turbine sedulus egit, Praeside letatus quae Rhutupinus ager. His martial service he discharged with care, without all strife: And Rutupin rejoiced in him, whilst there he was in life. The same Author setteth forth likewise in a lamentable funeral verse, in the praise of Claudius Contentus, whom he calls Uncle, who being overtaken with death, left behind him unto strangers, a mighty great stock of money, which he had put out to usury among the Britain's, and increased by interest. Et patruos Elegia meos reminiscere cantus Contentum tellus quem Rhutupina tegit. Claudius' Contentus. My doleful Muse now call to mind the songs of Uncle mine, Contentus, who interred lies within mould Rutupine. Ca●nd. Ken●. Ashe-Church. In this Church are many ancient Monuments of worthy Gentlemen, Goshall. Leverick. Septvau. S. 〈◊〉 Harslet● namely, Sir ... Goshalls, Sir ... Levericks, who lie crosslegged, as knights of jerusalem. One of the Septvaus, with a collar of S S about his neck, his wife's portraiture upon the same Tomb: diverse of the surname of Saint Nicholas, of the Harslets, and others, all without Inscriptions, saving two, and those shamefully defaced. Claus. 25. Hen. 6. Memb. 30. 1446. Christian S. Nicholas, Lady Prioress of the Minories without Algate, was daughter and heir of Nicholas, S. Nicholas, of S. Nicholas in Thanet, and Thomas S. Nicholas is named in the same Record▪ Hic iacet .... Clitherow Ar. Clitherow: ... Old●●stell. & ..... uxor eius silia johannis Oldcastell qui obijt ..... Pray for the soul of joan Keriell, joan Keriell. Ye friends all that forth ypasse; In endless life perpetual; That god it grant mercy and graze, Roger Clitherow her father was. Tho earth to earth of kind return, Pray that her soul to life may come. The name of Kiriell hath been of great note and antiquity within this County: Stow. Annal. Sir Nicholas Kiriell flourished in the reign of King Richard the second, and Sir Thomas Kiriell beheaded with the Lord Bouvile the day after the second battle at Saint Albon, in the reign of King Henry the sixth: or slain in the battle according to john Harding. ..... The Lords of the North Southward came, Harding 〈◊〉 To Saint Alban's, upon the fasting gang eve, Where then they slew the Lord Bouvile ●eue, And Sir Thomas Kyriell also of Kent, With mickle folk, that pity was to se. Sibbertswood. In this Church are some ancient Monuments (but now without Inscriptions) erected to the memory of the Philipots, or Philpots', a family which hath resided here a long time at Vpton Court, within this Parish; of which name and family was that renowned Lord Mayor of London, Sir john Philpot. knight, Lord Mayor of London. Stow. Annal. Sir john Philpot, knighted in the field by King Richard the second, together with Sir William Wallworth, than Mayor, and other Aldermen, for the good service they performed against Watt Tylar and his complices, Rebels of Kent and Essex. This Sir john gave to the City certain lands for the finding of thirteen poor people for ever. Stow. Survey. It is likewise remembered of him, to his eternal honour, that Ann. 2. R. 2. he manned forth a Fleet, at his own charges, to scour the narrow Seas of such Scottish, French, and Spanish Pirates, as had done much villainy by their often incursions, to many of our English Ports▪ and Harbours; with which he not only guarded both water and Land from their intolerable violences, but also took their prime Captain, Speed. Hist. 22. Ric. 1▪ one john Mercer a Scot, with all his whole Navy, consisting of fifteen Spanish ships, all being fraught with very rich commodities. Which memorable achievement, as it was right worthily applauded, The Walsingham in vita Ric. 1. extolled, and admired of all the faithful Commonalty; so was it most wrongfully underualued, envied, and drawn into question by some of the slothful Nobility. Ikham. Sir Thomas Basilius knight. In this Church I saw an old Monument, upon which only these words are remaining: Hic ..... Ba miles. And in the window under his arms in an old character written, Thomas de Ba. Of which short surname I find nothing related in writing, nor delivered by word of mouth, either short or long. Chiselherst. Here is the burial place of the Walsinghams'. Monkton in the Isle of Tenet. At the West end of this Church are these verses to be read: Insula rotunda Thanatos quam circuit unda. Fertilis & munda, nulli est in orbe secunda. The Isle of Thanet which is round, and watered round about, Doth pass the Isles in fruitfulness, that be the world throughout. Wingham. Wingham College. Lamb peramb. Here sometime stood a Collegiate Church founded by john Peckham, Archbishop of Canterbury, about the year 1287. wherein he placed Canons regular, valued at the time of suppression, at fourscore and four pounds of yearly revenues. Knowlton. In this Church are buried some of Ringleis, one of them kneeling in complete armour, his arms fixed on the Monument. It seemeth the Langleys who lived here a long time, did either found or re-edify this Church: their arms being fixed over the door upon the fount, and in the windows. Monkton. Blechendens 〈◊〉. In this Church are buried the Blechendens, and Crisps, families of good respect in this County. Saint Laurence Church. Here lieth Tho. S. Nicholas, Tho. S. 〈◊〉 and joan 〈◊〉 wife. who married joan Manston .... died .... had issue Tho. S. Nicholas here entombed. Roger Manston & julian sa Femme gisoinct icy, Dieu de psalms eyt mercy. Amen. These Manstons dwelled at Manston, near to this Parish, and seem to be the founders of this Chapel, wherein many of the name lie entombed. Barham Church. Albina la Femme Rogeri Dig gist icy Albina the wife of 〈◊〉. Dieu de salme eit mercy. Amen. In cineres stratus iacet hic john Dig vocitatus john Dig 〈◊〉 joan his wife. Coniuge ..... grata Iohanna consociata. Milicie nata, de stirpe suit memorata Spiritibus quorum faveat Deus ipse Deorum, .... pax solamen reminiscunt verius: Sir john Dig knight, and joan his wife. Amen. johannes humilis pius & prudens tumulatus, Marmore tantillo, qui solet esse potens. Qui quinquagenos & tres perdit simul annos, Nonis Decembris, ut cadit iste bonus. Post anno quinto, sequitur sua sponsa johanna, In festo magni Martyris alta petens. Coniugium faciens iunxisti corpora quondam, Christ, suas animas sac tibi celicolas. This family for many descents, even to these our days, hath been of exemplary note, and great respect in this country. Dover. In the Church within the Castle, Sir Robert Ashton knight, Lord Warden lieth a knight, whose portraiture is inlaid with brass upon a marble stone, with this Inscription. Hic iacet Robertus Asheton miles quondam Constabularius Castri Dovorie, et custos quinque Portuum, qui obijt nono die januar. Anno Domini millesimo CCC. octogesimo quarto, cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. Such was his patent for his office of Constable, and Lord Warden of the five ports. Rex omnibus, etc. Salutem. Concessimus post sursum reddicionem, Sol mundi comitis Cantabr. dilecto et fideli nostro Roberto de Ashton, Constabulariam Castri Dovor, ac custodiam quinque Portuum, habend. et custodiend. cum omnibus et singulis, ad easdem Constabulariam et custodiam, qualitercunque spectantibus, sive pertinentibus, ad totam vitam ipsius Roberti, adeo plene et integre, sicut aliqui alij Constabularij, et custodes portuum eorundem Constabul. et custod. illas ante hec tempora ex concessione nostra habuerunt, seu tenuerunt. Percipi●nd. pro Constabular. et custodia predictis, pro sustentacione sua nec non Capellanorum seruientium, et vigilium, ac unius Carpentarij in dicto Castro Commorantium. CCC. l. per annum, iuxta ratam temporis: videlicet de Wardis. T. R. apud Westm. 1. Feb. Ann. 4. R. Re. Ric. 2. pat. 2. Memb. 28. The rest of his offices and honours heaped upon him at several times; are likewise recorded in the Tower. Of which so much as tends to the purpose, I mean to the time and place of his preferments. Admiral of a 〈◊〉: First, Robertus de Assheton constituitur Admirallus Flote navium ab ore aque Thamasis versus partes occidentales quamdiu Regi placuerit, etc. Teste R. apud Westm. 28. April. 1. par. Pat. Ann. 43. Ed. 3. m. 15. Chief justice of Ireland. Again, Robertus de Assheton constituitur justiciarius Hibernie, quandiu, etc. T. R. apud W. 13. Aug. 2. P. pat. Ann. 46. Ed. 3. M. 16. Lord Treasurer Robertus de Assheton habet officium Thesaurarij Scaccarij, quamdiu, etc. T. R. apud W. 26. Sept. 2. P. pat. Ann. 49. Ed. 3 m. 23. Executor to K. Edward the third. He was also one of the Executours to the last Will and Testament of king Edward the third, as appears in the Office. He was descended from the Asshetons, of Assheton underline, in the County of Lancaster, as I find it in the pedigree of Sir Ralph Assheton of whaley, Baronet; descended from the same family. He gave the great Bell of the Church within Dover Dastle, as appears by this Inscription, cast in the mettle, about the circumference of the same. Dominus Robertus de Ashetone miles me fecit fieri, Anno quarto Richardi secundi. Foundation of the Castle Church. Lamb. peramb. Lucius, the first christened king of the Britain's, built this Church, to the name and service of Christ, endowing it with the Toll or custom of Dover. The Priory of S. Martin's, or Gods-house in Dover. Eadbald, the son of Ethelbert, king of Kent, to expiate his foul sins of incest, and infidelity, amongst other his pious actions, erected a College within the walls of this Castle, which Wightred (a successor of his) removed into the Town: stored it with two and twenty Canons, and dedicated it to the name of Saint Martin, Regist. eccl.. 〈…〉 in bib. Cot. Ann. 725. Which house was afterward new builded by king Henry the first, or rather by William Corbeil Archbishop, as I conjecture by these words: Nowm opus Sancti Martini incipitur à Wilhelmo Corbuil, Ann. 1132. wherein Theobald the successor of Corbeil placed Benedictine Monks, and called it the new Work at Dover, and was surrendered 16. novemb. 27. Hen. 8. the value of this foundation was yearly 232. l. 10. s. 5. d. ob. and was surrendered, 26. Novemb. 27. H. 8. Henry the third, king of England, here founded an Hospital for the Knight's Templars, which he called, Maison de Dieu, or God's house: Valued at 159. l. 18. s. 6. d. ob. q. per annum, at the dissolution. Not far from this Town was a little Monastery called, S. 〈◊〉 St. Radegunds, on the hill, valued at 98. l. by year: founded by Hugh the first Abbot of Saint Augustine's. Herne. Hic iacet Anto. Loverick. Armig. et Constantia uxor eius, qui obijt 10 Octob. 1511. Hic iacet corpus Christiane dudum uxoris Mathei Philips Aurisab●●, 〈…〉 Lond. Stow. 〈◊〉 ac Maioris Londinensis que obijt .... 1470. pro cuius anime salute veluis Deum orare. This Lord Maior was made knight of the Bath at the coronation of Elizabeth, wife of king Edward the fourth, together with Sir Ralph joccline, and Sir Henry Weever, and after that with other Aldermen, was knighted in the field, Ann. 1471. Hic iacet Wilhelmus Fineux sil. et heres johannis Fineux, William 〈◊〉 the son of judge Fineux militis, qui obijt Regis Henrici 7. Others of that name lie here entombed, but without any inscription to preserve their memory. Braborne. Hic iacet Wilhelmus Scot de Braborne A●. qui obijt 5. Febr. 1433. cuius anime. Wil●iam Sis testis Christe quod non tacet hic Lapis iste Corpus ut ornetur sed spiritus ut memoretur. Quisquis eris qui transieris sic perlege plora Sum quod eris sucramque quod es pro me precor ora. Hic iacet magnificus ac insignis miles johannes Scot quondam Regis domus, Sir 〈…〉 the controller of 〈◊〉 invictissimi Principis Edwardi quarti, control. et nobilissima integerrimaque Agnes uxor eius. Qui quidem Iohannes obijt Ann. 1485. die mens. Octob. 17. This Sir john Scot was also of the privy Council, and knight Martial of Caleis, who with others was sent upon an Embassy, Ann. Reg. Ed. 4.12. to the Dukes of Burgundy and Britain, to bring back again the Earls of Pembroke, and Richmund, whose escape did much perplex their kings suspicious thoughts. johannes Scot miles come CC. soldariis ex mandato Domini Regis apud Sandwicum pro salua custodia eiusdem inter Bund. Indent. de Guerra apud pelles. West. Hic ... Wilhelmus Scot miles, Sir William Scot knight. Hollinshed. ob. 1350. I take this man to be that William Scot, who with others of eminent degree and quality, was knighted by Edward the third, the tenth of his reign upon the creation of Edward his son Earl of Chester, and Duke of Cornwall. Of your ... Dame Elisabeth Poynings, Elisabeth Lady Poynings. late wife of Sir Edward Poynings which Dame Elisabeth deceased, Aug. 12. 1524. Camden in Kent This Elisabeth was the daughter of Sir john Scot, of Scots Hall, where the family of these Scots have so long flourished in worshipful estimation. Is●bell Lady 〈◊〉. Hac necis in cella iacet hic prudens Isabel Que nulli nocuit, sed Domino placuit. Sponsa fuit fata venerabilis, et peramata, Clifton Geruasijs militis egregij. Ante fuit dicta Wilhelmi Scotti relicta, Harbard vocata, vel Fynche certe scies. Dicitur hic alias .... mille quater centum, Petit L. cum septem ..., monumentum. Novembris deca bis hijs numerando dabis. joan the wife of Io. Digges. Geruasium Clifton istam genuisse johannam; Sta lege cui john Dig sociatus erat. Morte .... cadit corpus, sequitur cito matter. Filia prevenit hanc cui solet esse sequax. Christetuas famulas fac post te scandere celoes, Et post coniugia regna tenere tua. Dionysia Finch. Vincent Harbard alias Finch in the genealogy of the 〈◊〉 of Nedde. fel●●. Subiacet hac Petra Dionysia nunc caro tetra; Que fuerat nata Fynche aut Harbard vocitata; Vincent Armigeri: cui parce jesu mulieri. Dormit non moritur licet hic terra sepelitur. Qui bene pensetur qui credit non morietur Anno milleno C. quater .... cape pleno Bis quater appone .... celi iunge corone .......... Cui sit saluamen Deus omnipotens precor. Amen. Hic iacet expertus sub marmore miles opertus Sir Robert Gower knight Gower Robertus anime sis Christe misertus. From this family john Gower the Poet was descended. Pashley. One of the Pasheleis lieth here interred, the Lord of Halle and Mote in Sussex. From whom the Scots derive a descent. joan Pashley in the window. johanna Pashlee filia johannis de sole secunda uxor Edmundi Pashlee. Folkston. ●●mmati●n of the 〈◊〉 at ●ol●●ton. A Town famous in times past, and much frequented by the English Saxons for religion sake, by reason of a Monastery, which Eauswide the daughter of Eadbald, king of Kent, erected for religious women; of which, she became the first Prioress. She dedicated her Church to the honour of Saint Peter, and replenished her house with black Nuns: she continued herein Abbess a long time, . and so died a veiled Virgin, about the year 673. This foundation was long ago swallowed up with the sea; and another built by john Segraue, . and julian his wife, the daughter and heir of john Sandwich, who was Lord of this Town, together with john Clinton, in the reign of king Henry the third, who consecrated this their holy fabric to the honour of Saint Peter, and S. Eauswid. Whose relics they translated, into their new built Church; there they were gloriously en●●●rined, and she honoured for a Saint. Of whom the credulous common people did report many strange wonders: As that she lengthened a bean●● of this her religious building three foot, when the Carpenters (missing their measure) had made it so much too short: That she haled and drew water over the hills against nature: That she forbade certain ravenous birds the country, which before did much hurt thereabouts: That she restored the blind, cast out the devil, and healed innumerable folks of their infirmities. And therefore after her death, she was by the policy of the Church of Rome, and the Popish Priests, canonised; and by the folly of the common people (saith Lambard) honoured for a Saint. And no marvel at all (saith he) for it was usual amongst the Clergymen in those days, not only to magnify their Benefactors of all sorts; but to deify also so many of them (at the least) as were of noble parentage, knowing that thereby triple commodity ensued; the first, for as much as by that means they assured many great Personages unto them: secondly, they drew (by the awe of their example) infinite numbers of the common people after them: and lastly, they adventured the more boldly (under those honourable and glorious names and titles) to publish their feigned miracles. And this surely was the cause that Sexburga in Shepie, Mildred in Tanet, Etheldred at Elye, Edith at Wilton, and sundry other such women of royal blood in each quarter, were canonised Saints: for generally the Religious of those times were as thankful to their Benefactors, as ever were the heathen nations to their first Kings and Founders. The one for sanctifying such as did either build them houses, or devose them Orders; and the other deifying such, as had made them Cities, or prescribed them laws and government. This was it that made Saturn, Hercules, Romulus, and others moe, to have place (in common opinion) with the Gods above the stars: and this caused Dunstan, Edgar, Ethelwold, and others, first to be shrined here in earth, and then to sit amongst the Saints in heaven. This Nunnery was valued at the fatal overthrow of all such edifices, at 63. l. 7. s. per annum. It was surrendered 15. novemb. 27. H. 8. Lid. In this Church are the pictures of a man and his wife, inlaid in brass upon a goodly Monument: thus inscribed. Hic iacet Thomas Godfray quondam de veteri Rumney qui obijt 5. dic mens. Aug. Ann. Dom. 1430. a family of knights, ●●o. Godfra● not far from I●dde, and near unto Stonend. In the beach is to be seen an heap of great stones, which the neighbour inhabitants call S. Crispin's, and Crispinians Tomb, whom they report to have been cast upon this Shore by shipwreck, and from hence called into the glorious company of Saints. Look jacobus de voragine, in the Legend of their lives, and you may believe (perhaps) as much as is here spoken: they were Shoemakers, and suffered martyrdom the tenth of the Kalends of November. Which day is kept holiday, to this day, by all our Shoemakers in London and elsewhere. Begebury. Hic iacet Iohannes filius johannis Begebure qui obijt die Sancti Bri●ij, Ann. Dom. 1424. This john was the last Begebury of this house, whose daughter and heir was married to Culpepper. Orate pro animabus Walteri Culpeper Ar. et Agnetis uxoris sue qui quidem Walterus erat filius Thome Culpeper militis, et predicta Agnes erat filia Edmundi Robar iuxta Cantuar. et predicta Agnes obiit 2. die Decemb. Ann. Dom. 1457. et predictus Walt. obiit 24. novemb. 1462. quorum animabus. Sir john Cul●peper knight, and Agnes his wi●●. Orate ... johannis Culpeper militis, et Agnes uxor eius qui quidem Iohannes obiit 22. Decemb. 1480. quorum. Sir Thomas Culpeper is remembered in our English Chronicles, for siding with Thomas the great Earl of Lancaster, against his Sovereign Lord King Edward the second: and Thomas Culpeper a gentlemen of the privie-chamber, is not forgotten, for being over familiar with his Lord and Master King Henry the eighth: the one hanged, drawn, and quartered at Winchelsey, the other beheaded at Tyburn. The place fatal to both was Pontefract: ●●den in Rut. a family of exemplary note, both here and sometime in the County of Rutland, by the marriage of Sir Tho. Colepeper knight, to Eleanor daughter and heir of Nicholas Greene of Rutlandshire. The Church of Hed●orne sounded by one of the Culpepers'. ●uechurch. Orate pro anima Henrici Atte Capella militis, et jacobi Atte Capella militis: in fenestra. Now chapels, an ancient name and family in old Latin records written, De Capella. The Priory near Rumney. The Priory of Regular Canons near Rumney, was founded by john Mansell, Provost of Beverley, in the year that God took upon him the form of a Servant, 1257. the 41. of king Henry the third: of the which foundation, as also of the Founder, read if you please these words out of Matthew Paris. In the same year, saith he, Sir john Mansell Provost of Beverley, the King's Chaplain, and of his especial Council, a man prudent, circumspect, and rich, wisely considering, that the favour of a king is not hereditary, nor the prosperity of the world always permanent: founded a Religious house of Regular Canons, near by Rumney, two miles from the sea, and endowed it with very ample revenues, which he replenished with Canons, by the example of Peter Chareport: who, as he was informed, not many days before, had piously and prosperously founded an house of the same order, that so passing by temporal goods, they might not lose eternal. Bilsington. A Priory likewise built by the said john Maunsell, The Priory of 〈◊〉. for King Henry the third, and Eleanor his wife, and dedicated to the blessed Virgin Mary, wherein he placed black Canons; which was valued amongst the rest of the suppressed houses, at 8. l. 1. s. 6. d. of yearly comings in. This house was surrendered 19 januar. 36. H●n. 8. But to proceed a little further with this john Maunsell, john Ma●s●●● preferments. his Ecclesiastical and Temporal dignities; who besides being Provost of Beverley, was Treasurer of York, Parson of Maidstone, in this County, and Parson of Wigan in Lanchishire, to whom king Henry the third did grant that his Town of Wigan should be a Burrow. He was chief justice of England, one of the privy Council to the said King, his Chaplain, his Ambassador into Spain, a worthy Soldier, In armis strenuus, & animo imperterritus. who with his own hands, in a battle betwixt the English and the French, near to Tailborge in France, Hollins. An 1241. took Prisoner one Peter Orige, a gentleman of eminent place and quality: He was crossed to go to jerusalem. He feasted at his house in Tole-hill field, at one time, two kings, two Queens, with their dependences, 700. mess of meat scarce serving for the first dinner. About the 31. year of King Henry the third, at the instance of the said king, he was first made keeper of the great Seal, as Vicechancellor. For, saith Paris, Paris chin. Custodiam Sigilli regij accepit Cancellarij vices acturus et officium: and afterwards Lord keeper in plenary office and authority; yet for all this glorious pomp, and great promotions, I find his end to be poor, wretched, and miserable, beyond Seas; but I find no place of his death nor burial: Anon. in bib. Cott of all which, may it please you to read thus much out of an old Manuscript in the fame language it was to me delivered. Ann. 1268. obijt johannes Mansel in partibus transmarinis, Mansels' death in 〈◊〉. Ex Epitome. R●●geri Hoveden, in bib. Co●. in paupertate, et dolore maximo. Hic miser tot obtentus Ecclesiasticos habuit ut annuatim ex illis XVIII. millia Marcarum poterat expendere, unde maiores Episco. Anglie recusavit, tum quia in pluralitate permultarum preditissimarum Ecclesiarum habundavit, tum quia lubricus erat. Hic ait de una Ecclesia modici census, A Benefice for Dog's mea● scilicet 20. librarum. Ad canes nostros valet ista Ecclesia innuens per hoc, quod surfures, et farina, et alia canibus necessaria, ex proventu istius Ecclesie deberent comparari: Hic autem cum esset * Earl of Lei●cester. Mansel the cause of the wars between Hen●y the third and his Barons. Simonis adversarius (scilicet Mounteforti) et consiliarius precipuus, suaset Regi ut iuramentum quod fecerat cum Baronibus, pro fidelitate Anglie seruanda omnino dimitteret, factumque est ita. Mittitur igitur ad curiam summi Pontificis pro absolutione petenda, ne Rex teneretur prestito Baronibus iuramento, obtinuitque mox regia supplicatio absolutionem petitam, unde bellum de quo dictum est accepit, post illius absolutionis obtentum, etc. Of this man so many times double beneficed, Paris ●n 1252 Matthew Paris doth thus descant. Admirabantur autem cum stupore, qui ea quae Dei sunt sapiunt, hominem tam circumspectum, Charge of souls. tot animarum curam suscepisse non formidare, cum de omnibus coram summo judice, ut reddat rationem sihi se constiterit obligatum, sed ut verificetur. Multi multa sciunt seipsos penitus nescientes. I have seen a pedigree of the Mansels, from Philip de Mansel, who came in with the Conqueror, until these our times. Of this name and family is that orthodoxal sound Divine, and worthy Master of Queen's College in Cambridge, john Mansel, Doctor of Divinity, and a general Scholar in all good literature. Boughton under Bleane. Orate pro anima johannis Colkin Are▪ obijt 18. April 1405. 〈◊〉 Culkin and 〈◊〉 his wife Orate pro anima Willelmi Colkin de Colkin et pro anima Agnetis uxoris eius, qui obierunt, 1460. 〈…〉 and joan his wife. Pray for the soul of john Best and joan his wife, who deceased the 20. day of july, 1408. Swynfeeld. A free S●●●ole Here was a religious foundation called a preceptory. I should think it to have been a free-school, howsoever her allowance is very large and Colledge-like: for her yearly revenues did amount to 87. l. 3. s. 3. d. ob. according to the pricement at the suppression. Who should be the Founder, I cannot find. Here is an ancient fair Monument, whereon the portraiture of an armed knight cross legged is to be seen, and only Hic iacet of an Inscription, the rest gone. 〈…〉, and 〈◊〉 his son. Orate pro anima Willelmi Tonge, et johannis filij eius, qui hanc fenestrum fieri fecerunt. Shelwich. Sir 〈◊〉 knight, and Dennis his wife. Hic iacet Dominus Richardus Atte-Leese milesac, domina Dionisia ux. eius qui quidem Richardus obii●, Ann. 1394. Upon an old Tomb, and in as old a character, these words: Ric. L●●e to Cely Ici gist Richard Lisla. Hic iacet johannes Cely Ar. et Isabella ux. qui ob. 19 Octob. 1426. ●enal● Deyre Re●ald de Deyre gist icy Dien de salme eit mercy. Wye. Foundation of the College o● 〈◊〉 The ruins of a Collegiate Church are here yet still to be seen; first built by john Kempe Archbishop of Canterbury, borne in this Town; the son of Thomas Kempe, and Beatrice his wife, who were fairly entombed in this their son's foundation, with this Epitaph. The Kempe and Beatrice his wife. Hic sistunt ossa Thome Kempe marmore fossa, Cuius opus pronum se probat esse bonum. Dum vixit letus, fuit, & bonitate repletus, Munificus viguit, pauperibus tribuit. jungitur huic satrix virtutum sponsa Beatrix, Que partitur opes, sponte iuuans inopes. Ex his processit ut ramus ab arbore crescit, Cleri Presidium, Dux sapiens ovium. Christo Lectoris mens cunctis supplicet horis, Vt Patris Deitas luminet has animas. In this College he placed secular Priests, to attend divine Service, and to instruct the youth of the Parish, in Grammar, and other learning, according to his foundation, the governor of the College was called a Prebendary. It was begun and finished in the reign of King Henry the sixth. The value of it at the suppression was, 93. l. 2. s. 6. ob. per annum. There was (saith Lambard) a College in this place, Lamb. peramb. wherein Edward the second held the solemnity of a whole Christmas. john Andrew a Pilgrim. Hic iacet john Andrew iustus Palmerque venustus. ........... Ashford. Here is likewise a Collegiate Church of Priests founded by Sir Ro. Fog knight, Foundation of the College of Ashford. wherein many of that ancient and noble Family lie interred; there hang in the Choir the Achievements of six of them that have had their funeral obsequies (an honour to the dead now most shamefully neglected) attended with Heralds of Arms. But that which presenteth the greatest glory and antiquity to this Church, is the Monument of the Countess of Athol in Scotland: whose Epitaph in old French, as also the Banners in her hands, show her to be the daughter of the Lord Ferrer. Icy gist Elizabeth Comite D'athels lafoy File Sign. de Ferrer .... Dieu asoil. Elisabeth Countess of Athol. Que morust le 22. iour D'october L'an de Grace, M.CCC.LXXV. She was wife to David de Strabolgie, the fourth of that Christian name, Earl of Athol, and the daughter of Henry Lord Ferrer of Groby, and being secondly married to john Maleweyn of this County, here died in this Town. Here lieth Sir Francis Fog, who flourished tempore Hen. 2. Sir Anthony Fog, a knight of the Rhodes. Sir john, and Sir john Fog with many more of the family. Here are many goodly portraitures in the windows. As of Edward the third, of the black Prince, Richard Duke of Gloucester, Richard Earl Rivers, the Lord Hastings, the Lord Scales, Sir William Hawte, Valoins, and his two wives, the first the daughter of Hawte, the second of Fogge. Feversham. The funeral Monuments of this Church are more carefully preserved, then in any other (that I have seen) in all Kent. Diligunt decorem Domus Domini. Hic probus, Semane Tong, Baron of the five ports. et dignus, vir honestus, amans, que benignus, Vt vere scitur Semanus Tong sepelitur. Hic vir oportunus, Baro de portubus unus, In Thrughleigh natus suit, in Fevershamque moratus. Mortuus ipse die celsa fuit Epiphanie. Anno milleno C. quater, quarto quoque deno, Huius Semani sucrant quadraginta bis anni Tempus in hac vita; sibi celica sit via scita. Amen. Io. 〈◊〉 and his wife. Orate pro animabus johannis Wigmore gen. quondam de Gray's Inn .... Consortis sue & omnium filiarum, & Richardi filij, qui ob. Octob. 23. Ann. 1492. Vive memor Lethi. Wil Norton and Elisabeth his wife. Hic iacet Willelmus Norton istius ville de Feversham Ar. & Elisab. ux. or eius ●ilia Marci Hussey Ar. qui quidem Willelmus fuit istius ville ter Maior et obijt April 27. 1468. Will. Thorn. Hic iacet electus Willelmus thorn, bene tectus, Marmore deiectus heu mortis vi quoque rectus. Aprilis dena luce cessit ab hacque Calendas Anno milleno quatuor cent. bis quater addas, Ex istis ●inis vicenis rexit & annis. Cuius nos anime rogitemus cuncti potentem, Vt precibus nostris nunc miserere velit. Richard Norton and joan his wife. Orate.:. Richardi gen. filii Willelmi Norton, Ar. et johanne consortis ●ue ac matris sue Elizabethe qui quidem Richardus suit istius ville Maior, ob. Decemb. 10. 1500. john ●●st. Hic iacet johannes Rust Capellanus .... 1464. Es testes Christe quod non iacet hic lapis iste, Corpus ut ornetur sed spiritus ut memoretur. Him tu qui transis, magnus, medius, puer ansis Pro me funde preces quia sic mihi fit veny spes. Thomas Read. Hic iacet johannes Read sexies Maior istius ville de Feversham qui obiit .... 1503. Vermibus hic donor et sic discedere conor Qualiter hic ponor ponitur omnis honour. William Vpton. Hic iacet Willelmus Vpton; qui ob. jan. 2. 1432. Cuius. Hic iacet Henricus Par Ar. qui obiit in crastino Annunciacionis beat Marie. Ann. 1419. Vermibus hic esca iaceo, quam tu tibi sortem Qui legis expecta, neque fas tibi fallere mortem. Agnes Feversham Hic iacet Agneta uxor johannis Feversham que obiit 16. Septemb. 1427. William Leedes. Hic iacet Willelmus Leedes qui obiit die Sabbati ante festum omnium Sanctorum. Ann. 1419. Cuius anime propitietur altissimus. Henry Hatcher and joan his wife. Here lieth Henry Hatcher Merchant adventurer, and jone his wife .... 1500. Christopherus iacet hic Anna cum coniuge Finchus. Richard Colwell. Who so him bethoft inwardly and oft How hard it were to flit from bed unto the pit, From pit unto pain, that ne'er shall cease certain He would not do one sin, all the world to win. These rhymes are fair inlaid in brass upon a marble stone with this Inscription following about the Verge. Hic iacet Richardus Colwel quondam Mayor istius ville de Feversham, qui obiit .... 1533. And at every corner of the stone this word Col, with the lively form of a well, Camden Remaine●. expressing his name of Colwell. An usual fashion in former times fetched from the French, which they call rebus, or name-devises: examples of the same are frequent. Near to this Church sometime stood that goodly Abbey, Foundation of Feuers●am Abbey. founded by Stephen king of England, grandchild to the Conqueror, dedicated to Saint Saviour, replenished with black Monks of Cluni; valued at the suppression to be well worth (according to the favourable rate of such endowments in those days) 286. l. 12. s. 6. d. ob. yearly, such was the charter of his donation. Stephanus Rex, Ex Arch Turris London. etc. Archiepiscopis, Episcopis, etc. salutem. Sciatis me pro salute anime me, & Matildis Regine uxoris me, & Eustachij filij mei, & aliorum puerorum meorum, & antecessorum Regum Anglie dedisse, etc. Manerium meum de Fauresham ad fundand. Abbatiam unam ibidem ae ordine Monachorum Cluniacensium, etc. Sciatis etiam quod dedimus ego et Matildis Regina mea Willelmo de Ipra, in Escambium pro eodem Manerio de Fauresham. Lillechire cum pertinencijs suis de hereditate Regine. Teste H. Episcopo Winton. fratre meo, Rogero Episcopo de London Richardo de Lucy, Hen. de Essex, etc. This king died at Dover, The death and burial of King Stephen. of an Iliack passion, mixed with his old disease, the emrod's, Octob. 25. 1154. having reigned 18. years, ten months, and odd days: and was buried in this Church of his own foundation. Of which hear these ancient rhymes. Aftur king Harry even, Addition to Rob. Gloc. 〈◊〉. Then reigned king Stevyn The Erlys' son Bloys he was truly: He wedded Mold the daughter of Mary. A good man he was bedeme, I trow king Harry was his Eme; He reigned here XUIII year And to Feversham in Kent men him bear He died without issue truly, Then reigned his cousin Harry. Stephen was a most worthy Soldier (saith one) and wanted nothing to have made him an excellent king, Paris An. 1154 but a just title, but that was wanting. The which he found, Harding c. 12●. whiles he was living so, And reigned here, in much trouble and wo. And had this Realm without any right, Fro th'emprise Maude that fair Lady bright. And this was the cause that he was driven (perforce) to defend his vsur●ped authority by the sword, which must needs procure him the hatred of many, who thus speak of him in old English: King Stephen his luthenesse withdrew yers a few, Rob. Glocest. But oer Uyer were go he gan to wax a shrew. For he wend about and robbed the land, and to ground brought, Then the town of Wyrcester he brent all to naught. S. Daniel. But to conclude with the words of a late writer. This Stephen was a man so continually in motion (saith he) that we cannot take his dimension, but only in passing, and that but on one side which was war: on the other, we never saw but a glance on him, which yet for the most part, was such as showed him to be a very worthy Prince for the government. He kept his word with the State, No subsidies in K Stephen's time concerning the relievement of Tributes, and never had Subsidy that we find. But which is more remarkable, having his sword continually out, and so many defections, and rebellions against him, he never put any great man to death. Besides it is noted, that notwithstanding all these miseries of war, there were more Abbeys built in his reign, then in an 100 years before: which shows though the times were bad, they were not impious; the king himself being ment piissimus, 〈◊〉 ●omp. 〈◊〉 in bib. Cot. Sp●●d. as he was miles egregius. His body rested here in quietness until the dissolution, when for the gain of the lead wherein it was encoffined, it was taken up and thrown into the next water. So uncertain is man, yea greatest Princes, of any rest in this world, even after burial. Maud the wife of K Stephen Here sometime likewise lay interred Maud his wife, the daughter of Eustace, Earl of Boulogne, the brother of Godfrey, and Baldwin of Boulogne, kings of jerusalem, by her mother Mary, sister to Maud, Queen of England, wife of Henry her predecessor, who died at Heveningham Castle in Essex, the third of May, 1151. Whose Epitaph I found in a nameless Manuscript. In bib. Cot. Anno milleno C. quinquagenoque primo: Quo sua non minuit, sed sibi nostra tulit. M●thildis selix coniux Stephani quoque Regis Occidit, insignis moribus et titulis; Cultrix vera Dei, cultrix et pauperiei, Hic subnixa Deo quo frueretur eo. Femina si qua Polos conscendere queque meretur, Angelicis manibus diua hec Regina tenetur. Eustace King Stephen's son. Eustace the son and heir apparent of Stephen, and Queen Maud, lived not long after his mother, for being highly displeased with the agreement betwixt his father, and Henry fitzempress, afterwards king of England, by which he was made hopeless ever to have the Crown as his father's Successor: in a fury he departed the Court, purposing to raise himself by his own means; and so marched along, destroying the country always as he went, 〈◊〉. Monk● of Chester. until he came to Saint Edmundsbury; where he was honourably received of the Monks of that Monastery. But he came not for meat but money: and thereupon (ungratefully) urged them for a great sum to set forward his heady designs; yet the wiser amongst them, unwilling to be wagers of new wars (which though ill for all sorts, yet proved ever worst for the Clergy men's possessions) denied his request. Wherewith enraged be commanded his own men to carry their corn and other provision into his own Castle, 〈◊〉 D●rob. situated hard by. But being set at dinner, the very first morsel he put into his mouth, drove him into a Frenzy, whereof shortly after he died. His death and burial. His body was brought to this Abbey, and here interred by his mother. His death happened the tenth day of August, 1152. He was married to Constance sister of Lewis, the seventh king of France, daughter of king Lewis the Gross, by whom he had no issue. In this Abbey (saith Robert of Gloucester) is a piece of ye hely croys which Godfrey Boylon forkyndred had sent to king Stephene. Rob. Gloc. Tunstall. Hic iacet Margareta filia jacobi Cromer militis, Margaret Ri● kill. uxor johannis Rycils heredis de Elsingham .... qui obiit ... 1496. Sittingborne. Here lieth john Crowmer Esquire, Io. Crowmer and joan his wife. and jone his wife, who died Ann. Dom. 1539 .... on whose souls. A family of knightly descent and ample revenues, Will. Crowmer. one of which house, called William Crowmer Esquire, son of Sir William, Lord Mayor of London, high Sheriff of Kent, in the fury of jack Cade, and the Kentish and Essex rebels, was sacrificed at Mile-end, and cut shorter by the head; like as the day before they had served Sir james Fienes, Sir james Fienes I.o. Treasurer Lord Say, and Sele, and Treasurer of England in Cheapside, whose only daughter this Crowmer had married. Whose heads (give me leave to go a little further) pitched upon high poles, were carried by the villains through the City of London, who caused their trunklesse faces (in spite and mockery) to kiss one the other at every street-corner, as they marched along in this their damnable triumph, and hellish ovation. Which horrid act was committed the third of july, 1450. Pray for the soul of john Septvaus Esquire, john Septvaus and Katherine his wife: of the Isle of Thanet, son of john Septvaus, of this Parish, Esquire, and for the soul of Katherine his wife. Which john died Decemb. 18. 1458. I was as ye be, Elisabeth Poodd now in dust and clay, Have mercy on my sowl yat bowght hit with yi blood, For Elisabeth of Gherite a Paternoster say, sometimes I was the wyff of Edmonde Poodde: In gratia et miserecordia jesu hic iacet jacobus Bourne Are. ... 1400. james Bourne. Hic iacent johannes Garrard et joanna uxor eius ob. 1531. Io. Gerard and joan his wife. Laurence Gerard and Tho: his son. Hic iacent Laurentius Garrard qui obiit 1493. et Tho. Garrard eius filius, qui ob. 1487. Lenham. The first thing remarkable that the Sexton of this Church will show you, Apuldorfeild. Clipeus honoris. is, the Arms of one Apuldorfeild, which he won by his valiant service against the Turks and Saracens, in the holy Land, tempore R. 1. his chief seat was at Linsted. Glover, Somerset Herald. Thomas de Apuldorfeild Armig. per cartam suam datam 23. Ed. 3. dedit Willelmo de Linsted diversas terras & tenementa in Doddington et Linsted. Valentine Barret and Sicili● his wife. Hic iacet Valentine Barret Ar. qui obijt novemb. 10. 1440. et Cecilia uxor cius que obijt 2. Marcijs 1440. quorum animabus. ●●ll. Maries. Hic iacet Gulielmus Maries honorandus Armiger Hen. 5. deinde Armiger reverendi in Christo Patris, ac Domini D. Hen. Cardinal. qui obiit ultimo die Aug. Ann. 1459. Hic iacet Richardus Horn, filius johannis Horn, nuper de east Leuham Armig .... ob ... Regis, Hen. 6. Cornu eius exaltabitur. Chaloke, a Church founded by the Apuldorfeilds. In this Church in each window are the arms of Apuldorfeild: where in their coat armour they are figured. The Manor of Otterpley which since by the Moiles, came unto the Finches, was part of their possessions, as I have it out of the collection of Glover, Somerset Herald. Ospringe. In this Church I saw little remarkable. In the Belfray I read this verse insculpt or cast in the mettle, about the circumference of the Bell. Hac in conclave Gabriele tu pang suave. Chilham. Smersoll. Orate Willelmi Smersoll de Smersholl ... et uxor eius, et pro anima Saunder, goldsmith. Near to this village is a little hillock to be seen, wherein (as the inhabitants do dream) one jullaber (a Giant or a witch) lieth interred; jul-laber. but others of more exact judgement, do imagine that julius Cesar in his second voyage to this kingdom, Camd. in Kent. was sharply encountered here by the Britain's, and that, among others, he lost one Laberius Durus, a Marshal of the field, who was the man here buried: and that from him this hillock became to be named jul-laber. Tenham. Io. Frogenhall. Will. Mareys, joan and joan his wife. Hic iacet johannes Frogenhall Ar. qui ob. 11. novemb. 1444. Orate pro anima Willelmi Mareys joanne et joanne uxorum eius. Vpchurch. Woodokes. In the wall of this Church, I saw an old Monument, garnished about with Acorns and Okeleaves, wherein the Parish Clerke told me (as he had received it by tradition from his predecessors) that one Wood●okes an eminent man in this County should be entombed, which I can neither approve nor contradict. Horton Monks. A Priory, The Priory 〈◊〉 Horton Mon●●● but by whom founded I cannot read, dedicated to the honour of Christ and his blessed Apostle S. john, filled with black Monks Cluniacks, so called from the sanctimonious purity of one Odo, Abbot of Cluni beyond Seas, The order 〈…〉 a Benedictine friar, who lived in the year of Grace, 913. This house was valued at the suppression, at 111. l. 16. s. 7. d. ob. Bobbing. Orate specialiter .... Alexandri Clifford Ar. et Margarete, Alex Clifford and 〈◊〉 his wife▪ Visit of Kent. Glover. uxoris eius .... obijt— die— An. 1400. et Margareta obijt 19 jan. 1488. This Alexander, as appears by the pedigree, was the son of Sir jews Clifford knight, and this Margaret his wife the daughter of Walter Culpeper. Orate specialiter pro animabus Arnoldi Savage militis, Sir Arnold Savage knight, and joan his wife. qui obijt in vigil. Sancti Andree Apost. Ann. 1410. et Domine Ioanne uxor eius que fuit fill ..... the daughter of Eckingham by the pedigree. This Savage was the third Constable of Queeneborrow Castle. Hic iacet Arnoldus Sauage Miles, Sir Arnold Salvage knight. filius Arnoldi Savage militis, qui obijt in Festo Nativitatis beat Marie virgins, Ann. Dom. 1420. Hic iacet in gratia et miserecordia dei, Katherine Lady Savage. Katherine, que ●uit uxor Arnoldi Savage militis, filia domini Rogeri Scales, que obijt 7. novemb. 1437. Cuius, etc. I shall have occasion to speak much of the Savages, when I come to that honourable family of the Savages of Rock-savage, upon the River of Weever in the County of Chester, whose ancestors lie entombed at Macclefeild in the same Tract. Bradesoke. A Monastery of white Canons dedicated to S. Radegund, Foundation of Bradesoke Ab●bey. and built by the parents of Henry de Wingham, Bishop of London, in the reign of king Henry the third, valued to be yearly worth 142. l. 8. s. 9 d. Davington, or Daunton. A Priory of black Nuns, E● Arch 〈…〉. of which you may read in the Record at the Tower, Carte Antiq. lit. R.R. Milton Church. Hic iacet johannes Norwood Armig.:.. ob. 1400. john and john Norwood. Visit. Kent. Glover. Prey for the soul of john Norwood Esquire ... 1496. This latter john was Constable of Queeneborrow Castle, the first of Edward the fourth. This family of the Norwoods' hath for a long time flourished in this County; they had their residence at a mansion of their own name in this Parish, which is by a daughter and heir devolved to the Nortons', gentlemen of good account. Many fair Monuments of both these families are in this Church, but the Epitaphs are all gone. Thomas Alefe Esquir and Margaret his wyff, Thomas Alefe and Margaret his wife. Lie under this plain stone; God grant 'em evirlasting life, To whom we hop that gone: He died as her is to be sine, On thousand five hundred thirty nine. Who so that for their souls will pray, God give 'em meed at Doomys day. Sir john Norton knight, and joan his wife. Pray for the souls of Sir john Norton, knight, and Dame joan his wife, one of the daughters and heirs of john Norwood Esquire, who died Febr. 8. 1534 Stow. Annal. This Sir john Norton was knighted by a foreign Prince upon this occasion. Margaret Duchess of Savoy, daughter of Maximilian the Emperor, and Governess of the Low-countries, for Charles the young Prince of Castille, sent to king Henry the eight, earnestly desiring to have 1500. Archers to aid her against the Duke of Geldres, who did daily infest the young Prince's Territories. Sir Edward P●ynings. The king granting her request, appointed Sir Edward Poynings of this County, knight Baneret (a valiant Gentleman, and an expert commander) to be Lieutenant, and leader of these troops, who with other English Gentlemen under his conduction, performed such worthy exploits, as that for them they were highly commended, and Princely entertained at the Court of Burgoigne, Sir john Norton Io. Fog, john Scot, Tho. Lynd, knights of the field. by the said Lady Margaret, and the Prince of Castille, who at the same time and place, gave the honour of knighthood to this john Norton, here entombed, to john Fog, john Scot, Thomas Lind, Gentlemen of this country, and Soldiers of eminent performance in that service. Inter Bundle. Indent ●e guerra apud pelles. Samson Norton Armig. cum LXXXVII. sagittarijs in Seruitio Hen. 7. Eastbridge. Foundation of the Friary at Eastbridge. An Hospital founded by king Henry the first, or rather confirmed by him, and founded by one Robert Bruce, for Henry the first gave for William his father, Quicquid Robertus Brus dederat Ecclesie de Esteburch et fratribus, ibidem regularibus, valued at the suppression to be worth 23. l. 18. s. 6. d. ob. q. per annum. Graveney. judge Martin and Anne his wife. Visit. Kent. john Martin. joan Butler. Hic iacet johannes Marten justiciarius de communi Banco qui ob. 24. Octob. 1436. Et Anna uxor eius. This Anne was the daughter of Boteler, brother to Boteler Lord Baron of Wenime. Orate ... johannis Martin Ar. qui ob. ultimo Octob. 1479. Hic iacet joanna quondam uxor johannis Boteler de Graveney, fuit filia Richardi de Feversham, quondam domini de Graveney: ob. 3. novemb. 1408. 1. Reg. H. 4. Cuius. Orate ... Tho. Borgeris Ar. qui ob. 22. novemb. 1451. .... Pur Dame johanne de Feuersham et Ichan son filz. joan Feversham Tho. Feversham and joan his wife. Thomas Feversham justiciarius, et Ioanna uxor eius. West Langdon. Here sometime was a Monastery, but by whom founded I cannot learn; Found. of the Abbey. dedicated it was to the honour of Saint Thomas the Martyr, and filled with white Canons premonstrates. Of the yearly value of 56. l. 6. s. 9 d. This house was surrendered 13. novemb. Ann. 27. Hen. Octavi. Great Chart. Orate pro ... johannis Took de Godington in ista Parochia Armig. et Margarete & Anne ux. Io. Took, Margaret and Anne his wife. Margareta uxor prima erat filia johannis Waller de .... Com. Suffol. Anna filia johannis Engham de Singleton in ista Parochia: obijt Maij 20. Ann. 1513. Glover alias Somerset I find that four of the Enghams' of Shinglton succeeding one another as heirs, lived 329. years, viz. Alen. 79. Richard 79. Robert 85. Moses 86. Little Chart. Hic iacet Iohannes filius .... Lancastri Heraldi Regis Armorum, Lancaster king of Arms. qui obiit 10. die junii An. 1441. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. Orate pro animabus Stephani Norton Ar. qui me dedit.▪ ... This Norton was owner of Norton place in this Parish, Stephen Norton. and a potent man in these parts, who built or repaired this Church as it seems by the Inscription. Minster in Shepey. In this little Island, Foundation of Minster Nunnery. containing some twenty miles in compass, are the remains of a ruinous little Monastery, now called Minster, built by Sexburgh the wife of Ercombert, king of Kent, Ann. 710. wherein she placed Nuns, which was valued at the fatal period of all such foundations, at 129. l. 7. s. 10. d. ob. per annum. Some part of it is now converted into a Parish Church, in which are diverse funeral Monuments, which have been removed (as I conceive) out of the Chapel adjoining: some of which make a show of wondrous great antiquity. One of them is thus inscribed: Hic iacent Rogerus Norwood, Roger Norwood, and Bena his wife. et Boon uxor eius sepulti ante Conquestum. The Norwoods' are a worthy ancient family I confess; and may very well, for any thing that I know, have flourished before the Conquest, but I am sure that the character of this Inscription is but of later times, making but little show of any great Antiquity. In the most holy name of jesus prey for ye sowl of john Soole, Io. Soole and Margaret his wife. late of ye toun of Feversham, Maire, and Margaret his wyff, Agnes, and Elisabeth their dawters, and for the sowls of Richard Ware, and Elisabeth father and mother to the said Margaret his wyff, and for all Christian sowls. The which john deceased the day of ye decollation of S. john Baptist. 1521. Here I saw some antique Monuments of the Shurland●, Shurland: sometimes Lords of the Manor of Shurland, hereunto adjoining: of whom the inhabitants have many strange relations not worth remembering. Sir Robert Shurland flourished in the reign of king Edward the first. Hic iacet Dominus Thomas Cheyne inclitissimi ordinis Garterij Miles: Guardianus quinque Portuum, ac Thesaurarius Hospitij, Henrici octavi, ac Edwardi sexti, Regum: Reginaeque Mariae, ac Elisabethae, ac eorum in secretis Consiliarius, qui obijt .... mensis Decembris: Ann. Dom. M.D.LIX ac Reg. Reginae Elisab. primo. This Sir Thomas Cheyne was also Constable of Queeneborough Castle, a strong fortress in this Isle, pleasant for sight, built by King Edward the third; to the terror of his enemies, and solace of his people; unto which he adjoined a Burgh, and in the honour of Philip the Queen his wife, called it Queeneborough, as one would say, the Queen's Burgh. This hath been an office ever thought worthy of many great personages; as appears by their Catalogue, which I copied out of the Collections of Glover, alias Somerset. john Foxley was the first Constable: john of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, the second: Arnold Savage knight, the third: Thomas Arundel, Archbishop of Canterbury, the fourth: Robert de Veer, marquis of Dublin, and Earl of Oxford, the fifth: john Cornwall, Baron Fanhope, the sixth: Gilbert Vmfrevill the seventh: Will. le Scrope, son of the Lord Scrope, the eighth: Humphrey, Duke of Buckingham, the ninth: john Norwood, Esquire, the tenth: George Duke of Clarence, the eleventh: Sir Thomas Wentworth the thirteenth: Sir William Cheyneie the fourteenth: Sir Francis Cheyneie the fifteenth: this Sir Thomas Cheyneie the sixteenth: Sir Richard Constable the seventeenth: Sir Edward Hoby the eighteenth: Philip, Earl of Mountgomerie now living, Ann. 1630. the nineteenth. The Manor of Shurland seated Eastward from hence, belonged to these Cheyneys, and now to the said Philip, Earl aforesaid, whom King james created Baron Herbert of Shurland, and Earl of Mountgomery, upon one and the same day, viz. the fourth day of May, 1605. And whom King Charles, our dread Sovereign, hath made Lord Chamberlain of his Household. And to whom at this day, by the death of his thrice noble Brother, William, Earl of Penbroke, are added the honours and titles of Earl of Penbroke, Baron Herbert of Caerdiffe in Wales, Lord Parr and Roos of Kendal, Marmion, and S. Quintin. Vlcombe. Here in this Parish was anciently the mansion house of the family De Sancto Leodegario, S. Leger, now commonly called Sellinger: one of the owners whereof, namely, Sir Thomas Sellinger, who married Anne, Duchess of Exeter, sister to king Edward the fourth, lieth here interred, (say the inhabitants) amongst his ancestors. But I find him to be entombed with his foresaid wife, in the Collegiate Church of Windsor. Here lieth john S. Leger Esquire, and Margery his wife, sole daughter and heir of james Donnet .... 1442 ... Here lieth Ralph S. Leger, Esquire, and Anne his wife, who died 1470. Here lieth William Maidston Esquire, Inter Bundellas' Indent. de guerra apud pel. who died 8. April ... 1429. Tho. saint Leger seruir le Roy super salua custodia castri Rotten. cum quadraginta equitibus, per spatium triginta dierum, 11. Ed. quarti. Boniface of Savoy, Maidston. Archbishop of Canterbury, Uncle to Eleanor the wife of king Henry the third, built (here at the confluence of the waters) a religious structure, Found. of the College first an Hospital. to the honour of Saint Peter, S. Paul, and S Thomas the Martyr, (as most call him) and endowed it with fair possessions, by the name of an Hospital, but usually called, The new Work, which had not stood fully an hundred and forty years, but that William Courtney, one of his Successors in this See, pulled it down, and erected it anew, after his own pleasure; thereby gaining the name of a Founder; and called it a College of secular Priests, which he consecrated to the holiness of All Saints, which was valued at the suppression, at 139. l. 7. s. 6. d. of yearly revenues. This Archbishop Courtney was son of Hugh Courtney, the third of that Christian name, Earl of Devonshire, by Margaret his wife, daughter of Humphrey de Bohun, Earl of Hereford, and Essex. And being thus honourably descended, he was no sooner entered into Orders, but that he was loaden with spiritual preferments; as a Prebend in Wells, Exeter, and Canterbury, beside Benefices with Cure, more, I think, than he could well discharge. The first Bishopric he had, was Hereford, which he enjoyed five years, from thence he was removed to London, which he governed about six years (in which time, saith Walsingham, he was advanced to the dignity of Cardinal) from London to Canterbury; which gracious honour, he enjoyed 12. years lacking one month, even until his death: which happened the last day of july, 1396. He lieth buried according to his will here in his own Church, under a plain grave-stone (a lowly Tomb for such an high borne Prelate) upon which his portraiture is delineated, and this Epitaph inlaid with brass about the Verge. Nomine Willelmus en Courtnaius reverendus, William Courtney Archbishop of Canterbury Qui se post obitum legaverat hic tumulandum, In presenti loco quem iam fundarat ab imo; Omnibus & sanctis titulo sacravit honoris. Vltima lux julij fit vite terminus illi; M. ter C. quinto decies nonoque sub anno, Respice mortalis quis quondam, sed modo talis, Quantus & iste fuit dum membra calentia gessie. Hic Primas Patrum, Cleri Dux & genus altum. Corpore valde decens, sensus & acumine clarens. Filius hic comitis generosi Devoniensis. Legum Doctor erat celebris quem fama serenat. Vrbs Herdfordensis, Polis inclita Londoniensis. Ac Dorobernensis, sibi trine gloria sedis Detur honor digno fit * Sure he means Cardinal, for I cannot find him to be Chancellor. Cancellarius ergo. Sanctus ubique pater, prudens fuit ipse minister Nam largus, letus, castus, pius atque pudicus, Magnanimus, iustus, & egenis totus amicus. Et quia Rex Christ Pastor bonus extitit iste, Sumat solamen nunc tecum quesumus. Amen. This Archbishop bestowed much in building and enlarging of his houses, especially upon his Castle of Saltwood. Towards the reparation of his Church at Canterbury, he gave 1000 Marks; he gave also unto the same Church, a certain image of silver, weighing one hundred and threescore pounds, two vestments, and thirteen Copes of great value. Besides a number of books. Sir john Wotton Priest, the first Master of this College. Hic iacet Dominus johannes Wotton Rector Ecclesie Parochialis de Stapilhurst, Canonicus Cicestrensis, & primus Magister huius Collegij, qui obijt ultimo die Octobris, 1417. On the North side of the Choir, stands an old Monument most shamefully defaced. Only these words remaining of an old Inscription. ..... ad bona non tardus vocitando ..... namque Deo trino valefecit: ....... December .... Woodvill. ..... Annomilleno C. quater X. ... It is said that one Woodvill lieth herein entombed; who dwelled at Thamote within this Parish. Chancery of Maidston I find, saith M. Lambard, in a Record that Thomas Arundel, Archbishop of Canterbury, the next Successor of Courtney, founded a chantry at Maidston, which whether it be the same, that was sometime called the house of the Brothers, and but lately converted by the Townsmen into a freeschoole, or no, I will not boldly affirmed▪ but I think it rather so then otherwise. Leedes. There was a Priory in this Town built, and amply endowed by one Sir Robert Crevequer, Leedes Priory. and Adam his son and heir, who in ancient Records is named, the Crevequer, or de crepito cord (a Nobleman of Normandy, and knight to William the Conqueror) in the year of our redemption 1107. or thereabouts, E● Arch 〈◊〉 London. which he consecrated to the honour of our alone Saviour jesus Christ, and Saint Nicholas, and placed therein black Canons regular, Augustine's: Rainham. Io. and William Bloor. In a Chapel of his own foundation here in this Church, lieth interred, john Bloor, and William Bloor, Which john died 29. Decemb. 1520. james Donet: Hic iacet Iacobus Donet Ar. qui ob. Viij. Kal. Feb. 1409. For the love of jesus pray for me, Io. Paynter. I may not pray now, pray ye That my pains lessyd may be With on Pater Noster and on Aue. john Painter of Dover named I was, And two times More of that plas I passed to God the thirteenth of july, On thousand fyve hundred and forty. The people of this place make a great vaunt of the best wheat in all Kent or Christendom. Now here (gentle Reader) give me leave to speak a little more of the Priory of Leedes, though casually misplaced, because forgotten. I find (saith Lambard) in a Herald's note (who belike made his conjecture by some coat of Arms lately apparent) that one Leybourne, an Earl of Salisbury, was the founder of this Priory. And indeed it is to be seen in the Annals of Saint Augustine's of Canterbury, Mss●n ●ib. Cot. that a Nobleman, called Roger Leybourne, was sometime of great authority within this Shire, notwithstanding that, in his time he had tasted of both fortunes: for in the days of king Henry the third, he was first one of that conjuration, which was called the Baron's war; from which faction Edward the king's son won him by fair means to his part, and made him the bearer of his privy purse. Afterward they agreed not upon the reckoning, so that the Prince (charging him with great arrearage of account) seized his living for satisfaction of the debt, by which occasion Roger once more became of the Baron's party. But after the pacification made at Kenelworth, he was eftsoons received into favour, and was made Warden of the five Ports, and Lieutenant of this whole Shire. Now though it cannot be true, that this man was the builder of this Priory (for the same Annals say, that it was erected long before) yet if he did but marry the heir, he might truly be termed the Patron or Founder thereof: for by that name, not only the builders themselves, but their posterity also (to whom the glory of their deeds did descend) were wont to be called Patrons and Founders as well as they. It is observed, by my Author, in this place speaking of the Priory; that in ancient time, the greatest Personages held Monks, Friars and Nuns, in such veneration and liking, that they thought no City in case to flourish, no house likely to have long continuance, no Castle sufficiently defended, where was not an Abbey, Priory, or Nunnery, either placed within the walls, or situate at hand and near adjoining. And surely (omitting the residue of the Realm) hereof only it came to pass, that Dover had Saint Martin's; Canterbury, Christ-Church; Rochester, Saint Andrews; Tunbridge, the Friars; Maidstone, the Canons; Greenwich, the observants; and this our Leedes, her Priory of Canons at hand. About two hundred years since, A quarrel between the Canons of Leedes and the Monks of S. Alban. the Prior of this House, with three of his Canons, and others; laid violent hands upon the body of a Monk of Saint Alban, whereupon many more quarrels would have ensued, if that Boniface the ninth, Pope of Rome (hearing thereof) had not by his Bull authorised the Abbot of Saint Edmundsbury to hear, examine, and determine all controversies betwixt the two Houses, and to absolute the delinquents, after competent satisfaction made to the wronged parties. Thus goes the Bull. Bonifacius Episcopus seruus seruorum Dei; Dilecto filio Abbati Monasterij de Sancto Edmundo Norwicen. dioc. Salutem et Apostolic. ben. Conquesti sunt nobis Abbas et Conuentus de Sancto Albano Ordinis Sancti Benedicti Lincoln. Dioc. Quod Wilhelmus de verduno Prior Monasterij de Ledes ordinis Sancti Augustini. Thomas de Maydenston, Nicholaas Shirton, johannes de Reuham, dicti Monasterij de Ledes Canonici; Magistrum Hugo de Forsham clericus; Antonius Messager, johannes Frere, et johannes Linne laici Cantuar. Dioc. in Fratrem johannem de Stopeleya Monachum dicti Monasterii de Sancto Albano manus iniecerunt, Dei timore postposito temere violentas▪ Ideoque discretioni tue per Apostolica scripta mandamus, quatenus si est ita, dictos sacrilegos tandiu appellatione remota, excommunicatos publice nunties, et facias ab omnibus arctius evitari, donec super hiis satisfecerint competenter et iidem Clericus et Laici cum tuarum testimonio litterarum ad sedem venerint Apostolicam absoluendi. Canonici vero debite absolutionis beneficium assequantur. Dat. Lateran. xii. Kalend. novemb. Pontificatur nostri, Anno octavo. I have the rather inserted this Bull, for that it may be the more plainly understood; how the most of all causes in those times concerning the Clergy, were arbitrated not always by the authority of the learned Bishops of this land, but by Commissions purchased from the Bishops of Rome. This Priory was valued in the Records of the late suppression, at three hundred fourscore and two pounds of yearly revenue. Mottenden, or Motindene. Lambard speaking of Motindene (which name he derives from two Saxon words, Moo and Dene, which is the proud valley, a name imposed as he thinks for the fertility thereof) saith, That he hath not heard, nor hitherto found any thing touching the Religious House of Motindene in Hetcorne, The Religious House at Motinden. save only that the head thereof was called Minister, and that the House itself was of the yearly value of sixty pounds. Neither would I (saith he) have afforded it so much as paper, or place here, but only that you might understand, with what number of buildings, variety of sects, and plenty of possessions, Popery was in old time provided for, and furnished. No corner (almost) without some Religious house or other: Their sects and orders were hardly to be numbered; and as for their lands and revenues, it was a world to behold them. I find that the yearly extent of the clear value of the Religious livings within this Shire, amounted to five thousand pounds: Bishoprickes, Benefices, Friaries, Chaunteries, and Saints-offerings not accounted. Which thing also I do the rather note, to the end that you may see, how just cause is given us, both to wonder at the hot zeal of our ancestors in their spiritual fornication, and to lament the coldness of our own charity, towards the maintenance of the true Spouse of jesus Christ. For, if ever, now most truly is that verified, which the Poet long since said, Probitas laudatur et alget. Boxley. William de Ipre (a Town in Flanders) the base son of Philip Viscount de Ipre, Boxley Abbey. Lieutenant to king Stephen, in the wars against Maud the Empress: for which service the king created him Earl of Kent, founded this Abbey, Ann. 1146. which he consecrated to the blessed Virgin Mary, and planted it with a Covent of white Monks, of Saint Barnard's order, which he translated hither from Claravall in Burgundy, which as good children, were to follow and obey the rules and ordinances of the Abbey of Claravall in all things. These are the words in the institution. Anno 1146. fundata est Boxleia in Cancia, Cart. Ant. in Arch. Turris. London. filia Claravallis propria. And further, Quod ipsa Abbathia sit subdita Abbathie de Claravalle, etc. It was ordinary both beyond Sea and here in England, for one religious house to beget another, as will appear by the sequel; for not many years after her first foundation, this Abbey itself was the mother of Robertsbridge in Sussex. The yearly value of this house was esteemed at the suppression to be worth 218. l. 19 s. 10. d. This Monastery in former times was famous for a wooden Rood, The Rood of Grace at Boxley. Lamb. peramb. by which the Priests for a long while deluded the common people, until their fraud and Legierdemain was detected. Bocton Malherb. At Bocton Malherb, Camd. in Kent. saith learned Clarentieux, hath dwelled a long time the family of the Wottons, out of which in our remembrance flourished both Nicholas Wotton, Doctor of the Laws, who being of the privy Council to king Henry the eighth, King Edward the sixth, Queen Mary, and Queen Elizabeth, sent in Embassage nine times to foreign Princes, and thrice chosen Committee about Peace between the English, French, and Scottish: lived a goodly time, and ran a long race in this life with great commendation of piety and wisdom: and also Sir Edward Wotton, whom for his approved wisdom in weighty affairs, Queen Elizabeth made Controller of her house, and King james created Baron Wotton of Merley. If you would know any more, read Hollinshead, Hollins. p. 1402. An. Reg Elis. 27 who hath written a Treatise of this family from Richard Wotton, who flourished in the reign of King Edward the first, unto these Wottons, who yet do live in our memory. This Church is honoured with the sepulture of many of this noble progeny, but I have no inscription nor Epitaph for any, save only for him who was twice Lord Mayor of London. The first time in the third year of king Henry the fifth: Nicholas Wotton Lord Mayor of London. the second in the ninth of king Henry the sixth. Here lieth Nicholas Wotton Esquire. ... twice Lord Mayor of London. .... who was borne the 26. of October, 1372. and died Septem. 14. 1448. .... being 76. years of age. Newenden. This Town harboured the first Carmelite Friars that ever were in this kingdom, Newenden Priory. The first Carmelite Friars in England. Lamb: peramb. for about the midst of the reign of king Henry the third, this order came over the Sea, arrived in this land, and made their nest here at Newenden; which was at that time a woody and solitary place, and therefore (in common opinion) the more fit for religious persons to inhabit; they were called Carmelites, of a hill in Syria named Carmelus, where at the first a sort of them lived solitarily, until by john, Patriarch of jerusalem, they were drawn into companies. Now to give these sanctimonious white Brethren (such mere strangers) the better entertainment, one Sir Thomas Albuger knight, about the year 1241. built for them here a fair house, call it the Friary, which he caused to be hallowed to the honour of the Virgin Mary; for that by Honorius Quartus the Pope, they were appointed to a rule and order by the name of the Brothers of Mary; which title liked themselves so well, that they procured of Pope Vrban the sixth, three years pardon for all such as would so call them. But certain merry fellows (saith mine Author) (seeing their vanity, and knowing how little they were of kin to Mary the blessed Virgin) called them the Brothers of Mary Aegiptiaca the harlot. Lambard. Whereat the Pope was so offended, that he plainly pronounced them Heretics for their labour. He that was the Provost or principal of this Fraternity, was called the Prior of the house. One of which, namely, William Starnefeld, writ a Treatise of the original or beginning of this Order. What the value of this Priory was at the suppression I cannot learned. Combewell. Combewell Abbey. In this village was a Monastery of black Canons, dedicated to S. Mary Magdelene, and valued to be worth 80. l. 17. s. 5. d. Romden. One of the great family of the Guildfords, here in this Church founded a Chapel, Anno 1444. Ossham. john Elys. Hic ●acet johannes Elys Armiger qui obijt 18. die mensis Septemb. An. 1467. cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. Sir Nicholas Sandwich Priest Hic iacet Dominus Nich. de Sandwich, qui quondam fuit Rector istius Ecclesie de Ossham .... ob ... 1370. Visit. Kent. This man was Lord of the Manor, and a younger son of the family of Sandwiches' of Sandwich. Kennington. Will. Brent and Elisab. his wife. Sir W. Walkesley knight. Orate pro animabus Willelmi Brent, Ar. & Elisabethe uxoris eius filie Rise Madris. Orate pro anima Willelmi Walkesley, militis. Willisborough. Tho. Elys and Thomasin his wi●●. In the East window of the South Isle of this Church, you may find by an inscription that one Tho. Elys Esquire, and Thomazin his wife were here buried. And also one William Bar, William B●rre. the son of George Bar, or Barry of Mote in Sevington Parish, who died Ann. 1463. An ancient family ever since the reign of king Richard the first, Glover alias Somerset. in whose time, as also in the reigns of King john and Henry the third, Sir john Bar knight, flourished in great reputation here in this County. Bradgare. Here was a College founded by Robert de Bradgare, Tho. jocelin, Clerk, and Robert de Vise. The College of Bradgare. Narden. Upon the Tomb of Lady Elisabeth Nevil, here interred, wife to Sir Thomas Nevil, and daughter to the Lord Dakers, and Dame Anne Graistocke, Dame Elisab. N●vill. this old rhyme is engraven. O Lord my Saviour and heavenly Maker, Have mercy on Elisabeth Graistock and Daker. In what kings days this Lady might flourish, I have not made much search; the character of the Inscription seems to be ancient, and so are the families of the Nevils, Dacres, and Greystocks: as also of signal note, and exemplary nobleness in many parts of this kingdom; with the two first Surnames I do often meet. Thus much here then of Greystocke out of Camden, as followeth. By Peterill, beside Petrianae (saith he) standeth Greystock, a Castle belonging, not long since, to an honourable house, which derived their first descent from one Ranulph Fitzwalter: Camd in Cumberland. of which line William, called de Greystock wedded Mary, a daughter, and one of the coheires of Sir Merley, Lord of Morpath: and he had a son named john, who being childless, by licence of king Edward the first, conveyed his inheritance to Ralph Granthorpe, the son of William, and his Aunt's son by the father's side; whose male progeny flourished a long time in honour, with the title of Lord Greistock: but about king Henry the seventh, his days expired, and came to an end, and so the inheritance came by marriage unto the Barons of Dacree: and the female heirs general of the last Baron Dacre, were married unto Philip Earl of Arundel, and Lord William Howard, sons of Thomas Howard, late Duke of Norfolk. Pluckley, anciently written Plokele. This Towneship or Parish was by Archbishop Lanfrancke (in the time of William the Conqueror) given unto one john de Cobham, whose posterity assuming a Surname from the place, did flourish here by the space of two hundred years, until the daughters of Sir William of Pluckley knight, became the coheires of this Manor. Amongst whom, she that only is known to have had issue, was married unto john de Surenden, alias Sarenden, who upon the old seat, new founded the Manor house, (a fair one at this day, and by the antiquity thereof seems to have been the like, or much fairer at her first building) which stands upon the very forehead of that hill which from this place doth reach Westward into Surrey. A situation so elegant, that it compares with most that are, in rich pastures, healthful air, and plenty both of fuel and timber: but above all, in a very delicate and various prospect. From the owner it then received, and still retains, the name of Surenden, although from that family it did immediately by a daughter pass to the Noble and spreading house of Haute, whose first child, being daughter and coheir, Christian, was married unto john Dering, son of Richard, son of Sir john Dering of Westbroke, knight. In the possession of which family, the name of Surenden hath (by continuance) gotten its Master's Surname, to distinguish it from another of the same appellation within two miles, and so is known by the name of So in this County, Sutton Valence, Horton Kirby, and others, have like distinctive surnames. Surenden Dering. And through many descents (having been at no time bought nor sold) the gift of Lanfranke now resteth in person of Sir Edward Dering, knight, and Baronet, Lieutenant of his Majesty's Castle of Dover, and of his Cinque ports; the third of that name and family of Dering, which have enjoyed this Office, being a place of especial trust, of honour and command. In this Church, dedicated to S. Nicholas, and in our Lady's Chapel there, now belonging to Sir Antony Dering of Surenden Dering knight, and founded by Richard Dering Esquire, in the reign of king Henry the sixth, (as appears by his Arms carved on the bottom of the Arches, which are Or, a Salter sables, and Dering and Haute quartered Or, a Salter sables, and Or, a cross engrailed gules, thereon a crescent Argent) are several gravestones very fairly figured, with portraitures in armour to the length; first one for john Dering of Surenden Esquire, who lived in the days of King Richard the second, Henry the fourth, and Henry the fifth; some of the brass is torn away, that which remains is accordingly as followeth. HIC JACET This rhyming Epitaph is inlaid with brass about the Verge of this Monument. Hic iacet in terra, solitus sed vivere guerra, Vnde tulit vulnus quod dedit in de funus. Nunc subijt manes fortisque piusque johannes; Huius ergo dein dic miserere Dering. An. quatuor C. milleno quinto atque viceno, Dat mortale solo nunc superestque polo. Next unto him lieth entombed his son Richard Dering in this form, to whose memory no Inscription is remaining. Richard Der●● Richard Dering of Surenden Dering, Esquire, gave as I have it by relation) the hangings of rich and fair cloth of Arras, which adorn the Choir of the Cathedral Church in Canterbury, upon the suit of his son Richard Dering a Monk there; who, according to his Monkish Heraldry, hath figured in their several bordures, his Rebus, or Name devices, viz. a Dear and a Ring, in stead of Arms, although six embroidered Cushions, then given for the Prior's seat, and since used in the Deans Pewes, have the Arms of Dering embroidered on them, and impaled with Bertyn and Eyton his two wives. Richard Dering the Monk, ●●ow. Annal. was one of the adherents to Elisabeth Barton, the holy Maid of Kent, in her feigned hypocrisy, and traitorous practices. In the same Chapel lieth john Dering, john Dering. Esquire, who was great grandchild to the foresaid Richard Dering of Surenden, whose Altar tomb is since laid flat. He died 1550. and hath there his figure in the wall, kneeling with his Surcote of Arms; with him is buried Margaret his wife, sister and sole heir of Thomas Brent, Esquire. underneath the figure of Richard Dering, An Eschurchion. before remembered, is an Escocheon with eight coats quartered. First Dering a Salter. 2. Haute a Cross ingraled with a crescent. 3 Brent, a wivervolant. 4 a Fez cotized. 5. Surenden a Berid between two Cottesses nebuly on the outsides. 6. Pluckley a Flower deluce. 7. Barkley a Chevoron between ten crosses form within a border. 8 Dering again. At the foot of this Chapel, within the Church, under four several Gravestones, every one inlaid with figures of brass at length, the men lying in Armour, are buried as followeth. Io. Dering and julian his wife. john Dering Esquire, who died Ann. Dom. 1517. and julian his wife, sister of Sir john Darrell knight, who died 1526. Nic Dering and 〈◊〉 his wife. On their right hand lieth Nicholas Dering, Esquire, their eldest son, and Alice his wife, the daughter and coheir of the eldest house of Bettenham. 〈◊〉 Dering & Bene● his wife. On their left hand under an Arch, with the like portraiture in brass at length, lieth their second son, Richard Dering Esquire, the King's Lieutenant of Dover Castle, and the Cinque Ports, under five Lord Wardens. He died 1546. And with him is buried Benet his wife, of the ancient family of Brockholl. diverse others of this most ancient and right worthy progeny, lie here interred; of whom (their burials being but of later times) the order of my method will not give me leave to speak. Hen. and Rich. Malemaines'. In the body of this Church are two Gravestones, under one of which lieth the body of Henry Malemaines', Esquire, and under the other (with his portraiture at length in brass) Richard Malemaines' Esquire, who died 1440. their coat of Arms thereupon engraven. Ermyn a chief gules, three left hands Argent. Bethersden under Pluckley hill. In this Church are the Arms of Surenden twice singly, and once impaled with Crouch, which Surenden was there the principal Inhabitant in the time of Edward the second, being owner of a place there called Surenden, which now belongeth to a right worthy gentleman Edward Chute Esquire. And is seated with the view of the other Surenden, belonging as aforesaid to Sir Edward Dering. Charing. In the year 1590. this Church was with fire consumed all but the very stones; which fire it caught from a piece discharged at a Pigeon then upon the Church. The windows and the Gravestones (wherein diverse of the ancient and worthy family of Brent were memorised) at that time were defaced: yet on the outside of the Belfry do remain carved in stone, the badge of Edward the fourth (being a Rose within the Sunbeams) and a Wyver being the Arms of Hugh Brent Esquire; who in the reign of Edward the fourth, was the principal Founder of that Belfry, which was before of wood. From the time of Henry the sixth, the family of Brent (being branched out of the ancient stock of Brent in Somersetshire, of which house Sir Robert de Brent was a Baron of the Parliament in the time of Edward the first) hath flourished here as the prime name of this Parish, until Thomas Brent Esquire (the last male of this line) did remove to Willisborough, where he died issueless. On the South side of the Chancel here, and annexed to the Church, is a convenient Chapel founded by Amy Brent widow of William Brent Esquire, who died in the reign of Ric. the third; this (with the Church) being fired, is now in the hands of workmen to be repaired, by Sir Edward Dering knight and Baronet, to whom the right of this Chapel is derived, as well in blood from the brent's, as by composition between him and M. Brent Dering of Charing, who now is the owner of the ancient house of the brent's there, which is full stored with the Badges of Edward the fourth, in every quarry of glass within the Hall-window. In which house also (as it goes by tradition) john Brent Esquire, feasted King Henry the eight, as he passed this way toward his then intended siege of Bullen. But this name of Brent is for nothing more famous, then for the warlike exploits of that wild madbraine Falques, or Falco de Brent; Brent the Madbrain. who made it nothing to raise war against kings; to besiege and take Castles, to spoil Abbeys, pull down Churches, ransack all the adjoining territories, and where I write of such a touch of wickedness? but more of him hereafter, what not which had English persons of especial note, as have been interred in foreign nations. Lyd. Of lid I have spoken a little in another place, yet here give me leave to speak a little more upon further information. Rich. Dering & Tho. his son. In this Church of lid were two Gravestones of Richard Dering, who died in the reign of king Richard the second, and Thomas his son, one of them had fair portraitures with ornaments engraven thereon: but the loss of some of the brass, with the remote absence of his posterity, have given occasion for another name to superscribe that stone; although at that time the best, if not the only names of note and gentry there, were Septuanus and Dering: at which time Dering was here owner of Westbrooke, and of Deuge Marsh place, which name hath been of great and ancient possessions in lid, Midley, Promhill, and old Rumney, whereof a part was the level of four hundred Acres of land, called yet by the name of Dering: and on the other side of lid above threescore Acres by the name of Dering Droff. From hence john Dering Esquire, in the time of Henry the seventh, was taken out of his house and carried into France, from whence by ransom he freed himself. Chartley Magna. Between the Chancel and the North Chapel of this Church, is an Altar-Tombe, round about the verge of which, is engraven this Epitaph following in brass, and betwixt every word the figure of a well, alluding to the name of the parties there underneath interred. Anime Willelmi de Goldwelle & Auicie uxoris sue per miserecordiam Dei in pace requiescant. Will. Goldwell and Avicen his wife. Qui quidem Willelmus septimo die mensis Maij, & dicta Avicia octavo die Aprilis, Litera Dominicalis. B. ab hac luce migrarunt. Ann. Domini M. CCCC.LXXXV. Quorum animabus propitietur Deus. Amen. james Goldwell of this family, Bishop of Norwich, was a repairer of this Church, as appears by this broken Inscription in the top cross window. ..... Magistro jacobo Goldwelle ..... Ecclesie sancti Pauli London, Goldwell Bishop of Norw. a repairer of this Church. qui hoc opus repara ...... And in the East window it is thus to be read in the glass. Memoriale reverendi patris Domini jacobi Goldwell Episcopi Norwicen. In a North window of the North Chapel have been sixteen portraitures of men in glass, all kneeling, whereof most remain, whose names are as followeth. The bvilder's o● founder's of this Church. johannes Webbe, johannes Hosewyf, Thomas Wred, johannes Turlepyn, Willelmus Malemayne, johannes Litihey, johannes Bockon, johannes Chillinton, johannes Atte, johannes Yardherst. .......... In midst of whom, as the Priests than are, Dominus Richardus Medhurst, and Dominus Walterus Wilcock. Now, as it goes by tradition, from the father to the son, these were the builders of this Church. In the midst of the East-window, in the South Chapel of this Church, is the picture of the foresaid Bishop Goldwell, kneeling, and in every quarry a golden well or fountain (his Rebus or Name devose) and cross the window inscribed: Bishop Goldwel the founder of the South Chapel. ..... jacobo Goldwelle Episcopo Norwicen. qui ..... opus fundavit. Ann. Christi, M. CCCC.LXXVII. whereby it appears that this Bishop was Founder of this Chapel. The corner stone of the foundation of this Chapel on the outside, is made like a Grave-stone, with a Cross cut thereupon. Io. Tok●, Marg. and Anne his wives. Orate pro anima johannis Took Armigeri, nuper de Goddington istius paroch Cuius corpus iacet hic tumulatum, ac pro animabus Margarete, et Anne uxorum suarum. Que quidem Margareta filia fuit naturalis dum vixit johannis Walworth, nuper in Comitatu Suff. & dicta Anna filia etiam naturalis, johannis Engeham Armigeri, nuper de Syngleton, istus paroch. Qui vero johannes Took obijt vicesimo die Maij, Ann. Dom. M. CCCCC.XIII. Quorum animabus propitietur Deus Altissimus. Tho. Twesden and Benedict his wife. Hic iacent Thomas Twesden generosus, qui obijt 8. die Decembris Ann. Dom. 1500. et Benedicta uxor eius. Quorum animabus propitietur Deus. Sancta Trinitas Deus miserere nobis. Will. Sharp and his five wives. Hic iacet Willelmus Sharpe et eius quinque consortes, qui Willelmus obijt, 29. die Septemb. Ann. Dom. 1499. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. Sevington. Margaret the wife of Edward Barry. Hic iacet Margareta Barry, Quondam uxor Edwardi Barry Armiger. Que quidem Margareta obijt ..... mensis .... Ann. 1400. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. joan Lady Barry. Hic iacet joanna Barry quondam uxor Willelmi Barry militis, Pater de celis Deus miserere nobis. Fili Redemptor mundi Deus miserere nobis. Spiritus Sancte Deus miserere nobis. Sancta Trinitas unus Deus miserere nobis. Sir john Barry, knight Orate pro anima johannis Barry militis. Isabell ●●dy Barry. Orate pro anima Isabelle quondam uxor Willelmi Barry Militis, Pater de celis. As before about the verge of this and the other Gravestone. Sir ●ill. Barry knight. Here is also a Monument, whereupon a man armed is portrayed, the Inscription whereof is altogether perished; which in all likelihood was made to the memory of Sir William Barry, knight, the husband of the fore-remembred Isabell. At the lower end of the Church, and near to the Belfry, lieth the body of one of these Barryes' portrayed in complete armour, about the Verge of his Monument this Inscription. Hic iacet Vmfridus Barre Ar. Quondam Dominus istius ville et Patronus istius Ecclesie. Humphrey Barry. Qui obiit in die Sancte Marie Magdalene, An. Dom. 1431. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. Camden in his chorographical description of Ireland, and in the County of Cork, writes greatly to the honour of this surname of Barry. These are his words as followeth. Beneath Cork (saith he) the river, parting in twain, environeth a large and very pleasant Island, over against the principal dwelling house of that most ancient and noble family of the Barries, which thereupon is called Barry Court. For, that family is derived from Robert de Barry an English man, a personage of great worth, and renowned: who notwithstanding chose rather among the first to be chief indeed, then to seem chief: who in the winning of Ireland, Robert Barry the first in 〈◊〉 land that broughthawke to hand: received wounds and hurt: and the first man he was in Ireland that manned and brought the Hawk to hand. His posterity by their long approved loyalty, and martial prowess, deserved to receive of the kings of England, first the title of Baron Barry, afterwards of Viscount Butiphant, and for their great lands and wealth, got among the people the surname of Barry More, that is, Barry the Great. ..... johannes Fynch Armiger, Qui obiit 19 die Mensis Maij, Ann. Dom 1442. Cuius. This I conceive to be some younger branch of the Nobly descended family of the Finches, of whom there is mention made among the Monuments in Braborne Church before, where they are styled Herbert, vel Finch, not unaptly thereby continuing the memory of their original name and ancestry, as being lineally descended from Hen. Fuz-Herbert, Chamberlain to king Henry the first, who married the daughter and heir to Sir Robert Corbert: Vide Vincent contra Brooke pag. 130. and had issue by her, a son named Herbert, who likewise had issue a son, named Herbert Fitz-Herbert. Who by his first wife Luce, daughter and coheir of Milo, Earl of Hereford, and high Constable of England, had issue a son, named Peter Fitz Herbert (from whom the Epirotes Earls of Pembroke are descended) and by Matilda his second wife (after his death remarried to the Lord Columbarij,) he had issue * M S. Tho Talbot. clerici Rotulorum in. 'em Lond. Matthew Paris pag 342 Selden in his Titles of Honour of Barons Plota 18. H 3. apud Westm. Bracton de Exceptionibus li. 5. cap. 9 pag. 5. Supersedeas de An. 8. Ed. 2. in dorso. Matthew Fitz-Herbert, who was one of the Magnates, or Barons at the making of Magna Charta, and was likewise one of those potent Noblemen for the king, that made the accord between king john, and the Barons at Running Mead, between Windsor and Stanes: his son likewise, called Herbert Fitz Matthew, was the fourth Baron that is mentioned in the Rowl of the Parliament at Tewksbury. The change of this name Finch, seemeth to have been about the latter end of king Hen. the third (at which time many other families suffered like alteration) as appeareth by a supersedeas, Ann. 8. E. 2. therein mentioning, that Herbertus Filius Herberti dicti Finch, was a Ward, 28. E. primi, and so could not personally serve with the king in his wars in Scotland, and therefore was released of his Escuage for all his lands in Kent and Sussex, which, together with some of the ancient patrimony and seven knights sees at Nethersfield in the County of Sussex, are not yet alienated from this honourable family, who by their paternal Ancestors and Matches are descended from many honourable houses, and especially by Sir Moyle Finches Lady, Elizabeth, sole daughter and heir to Sir Thomas Heneage, Vicechamberlaine and Councillor of Estate to Queen Elizabeth, by whom she had many children: and in her widowhood received from King james the dignity of Vicecountesse of Maydestone; and by King Charles was created Countess of Winchelsey, to her and to her heirs Males. ARCHBISHOPS OF CANTERBURY CANONISED SAINTS. ●. Austin Archbishop. ANd first to begin with the first, which was Austin the Monk, famous for the many miracles which he wrought, if we may believe the Legend. Amongst which, this following is said to be one. Saint Austyn entered into Dorsetshyr (give me leave to use the character of my old Agon) and came into a town where as were wicked people, and refused his doctrine and preaching utterly, and droof him out of the town, casting on him the tails of Thornback, or like fishes. Wherefore he bysought almighty God to show his judgement on them: And God sent to them a shameful token. For the children that were borne after in that place had tails, as it is said, till they repented them. It is said comynly that this fill at Strode in Kent, but blessed be God at this day is no such deformity. The first of these fables is likewise written by Alexander Esseby, saith Lambard, and the later by Polydore Virgil, who fathers it upon Thomas Becket (handling that hot contention between king Henry the second, and Thomas Becket) saith, that Becket (being at the length reputed for the king's enemy) began to be so commonly neglected, contemned, and hated, that when as it happened him upon a time to come to Stroude, the inhabitants thereabouts (being desirous to despite that good Father) sticked not to cut the tail from the horse on which he road, binding themselves thereby with a perpetual reproach: For afterwards (by the will of God) it so happened, that every one which came of that kindred of men which had played that naughty prank, were borne with tails, even as brute beasts be. Thus Polidore Virgil's History (howsoever if you respect the stile, method, and matter, a good work) is blemished with this, and other old wife's tales and follies. ●olidor. the Pope's collector. For as he was by office a collector of the Peter-pences to the Pope's gain and lucre, so showeth he himself throughout by practice, a covetous gatherer of lying fables, feigned to advance, not peter's, but the Popes own Religion, kingdom, and Mitre, saith my foresaid Author. The day of the Translation was anciently kept holy, the 26. day of May. ●. Honorius Archbishop. The next canonised Archbishop which I find, was Honorius, who was unus ex discipulis beati Pape Gregorij vir magne reverentie, & in rebus Ecclesiasticis sublimiter instructus: one of the Scholars of blessed Pope Gregory, a man of great reverence, and in Ecclesiastical affairs, highly instructed; saith Capgrave, in the life of the holy Saint. Honorius propter virtutem et Euangelij predicandi studium, Hist. Eccl. Ang. Sex●. sar. c. 8. honorandus plane et suspiciendus. Honorius, for his virtue and studious endeavour of propagating the Gospel, throughly to be honoured and had in admiration, saith Harpsfeld. Many are the miracles attributed to his holiness, which were performed before, upon, and after the translation of his Relics; which are needless to relate, being like the rest of that kind, incredible. The third Saint of this See in Capgraves' Calendar, S. Deodat Archbishop. is, Deusdedit, A deo datus, or Deodat, for before his name was Frithona, (so named after his election to this archbishopric) of which a late writer thus descants in his Canto of the Catalogue of ancient English Saints. Of Canterbury here with those I will begin, M Drayton, Polyol. 24▪ Song. That first Archbishops See, on which there long hath been So many men devout, as raised that Church so high, Much reverence, and have won their holy Hierarchy: Of which the first that did with goodness so in flame The hearts of the devout (that from his proper name) As one (even) sent from God, the souls of men to save, The title unto him of Deodat they gave. Verus erat Dei cultor: vitiorum mortificator: Virtutum amator: verbi divini non segnis sator, etc. He was a true worshipper of the everliving God: a mortifier of vices: a lover of virtues: no slow unprofitable sower of the divine word; and so forth. In the like phrase much more is delivered by Capgrave, of this holy Bishop and Confessor. He writ a book of the Bishops of Canterbury, his predecessor, as witnesseth Pitseus. That learned Priest Theodore succeeded Deodat, S. Theodore Archbishop. as in seat, so in Sainting. Unto this man all the British Bishops, and generally all Britain, yielded obedience; first he was in his life, as also in his discipline, exercising the authority of his place wondrous severely. Never before his time had England so many happy days, nor so many learned men, as under him, and a little after. Much might be said of his sanctity, out of Capgrave, and others: but I will make an end, with his end, out of an old Manuscript. Theodor yat was of Cawnterbury, Erchbysshcoppe than, and eke the high Prymat▪ Of fowrscor yer of age so than did die, That twenty yer and two held that estate, To great honore, and worschippe fortunate. The yer of Crist sir hundred forscore and ten, Was, when his sowl fro flesh was lesed clen. ●. Odo Archbishop. Odo, surnamed Severus, the Confessor, for his singular austerity of life, and many virtues, is reckoned in the new Legend amongst the Saints. Of whom the foresaid Author of Polyalbion thus sings. Then Odo the Severe, who highly did adorn That See (yet being of unchristened Parents borne, Whose country Denmark was, but in East-England dwelled) He being but a child, in his clear bosom felt The most undoubted truth, and yet unbaptised long; But as he grew in years, in spirit so growing strong. And as the Christian Faith this holy man had taught, He likewise for that faith in sundry battles fought. S. Dunstane Archbishop. Dunstan succeeded Odo, whose miracles by him wrought, are said to be so many, and so far beyond belief, that where to begin I know not, much less where to end; I will look upon him as I find him lying on his deathbed; where he saw many strange visions of heavenly joys were showed unto him for his great comfort. And upon holy Thursday (to use the words of the old Legend) he sent for all his brethren, and asked of them forgiveness, and alsoo forgave them all trespaces, and assoiled them of all their sins, and the thyrd they after he passed out of this world to God, full of virtues, the year of our Lord ix ninety lxxxviii, and his soul was borne up to Heaven with merry song of angels, all the people hearing that were at his death: and his body lieth at Cawnterbury in a worschipful shrine, where as our Lord showeth for his Servant S. Dunston many fair and great miracles; wherefore our Lord be praised world withouten end. Amen. His relics, saith Capgrave, were removed to Glastenbury, about four and twenty years after his departure. And so it is very probable, for there he was first a Brother of the House, and afterwards Abbot: there the devil came to him dancing, by which the devil's merriment, Dunstan knew the instant time of the death of Edmund, the Brother of Athelstane slain at Pucklechurch. Of which my old Rhymer, Rob. of Gloucester. saint Dunstone was at Glastonbery though the king yhurte was And yut in the same * instant. stound he wist of this cas. For the devil before him came dawncing and lowgh, And as hit were pleying made game enough; This * holy. hely man wist anon why his joy was, And that for the kings harm he made such solas. Dunstone toward Pukelcherch dight himself believe, So that men told him by the way the king was out of lives. Capgrave. But at another time this merry devil (or some other) came to him in another mood, in likeness of a Bear, and would have handled with rough Mittins, as the proverb is, yet Dunstane had the better in the conflict, being never abashed with such an hellish encounter, upon which the foresaid Author of Polyolbion doth thus comment. — Dunstan as the rest arose through many Sees, Song. 1●. To this Archtipe at last ascending by degrees, There by his power confirmed, and strongly credit won, To many wondrous things which he before had done, To whom when (as they say) the Devil once appeared, This man so full of faith not once at all afeared, Strong conflicts with him had, in Miracles most great. The day consecrated to the memory of this Saint, was the 19 of May; more of him (if it be not needless) when I come to Glastonbury. Elphege (of women I have spoken elsewhere) borne of great parentage, S. Elphege Arch. Martyr. brought up in all good learning at Derehirst, not far from Gloucester, a man of wonderful abstinence, never eating, drinking, or sleeping, more than necessity compelled him, spending his time altogether either in prayer, study, or other necessary business, was stoned to death (like another Stephen) by the Danes at Greenwich, in the year 1012. canonised for a Saint, and allowed the 19 day of April for celebration of his memory. — such ye yer of grace A thousand and eight they lad him to a place Rob. Glocest. without the town of Grenewyche, and stened him with stenes As men did saint Stephenne, and all to bruysed his benes This was do the Ester week in the Saturday, As mor plenner in his lif se ther of men may. Egelnoth surnamed The Good, is likewise calendred amongst these Sainted Archbishops. S. Egelnoth Archbishop▪ He was the son of an Earl, called Agelmare, and is said to have been Deane of Christ-Church in Canterbury: which at that time was replenished for the most part with Canons, wearing the habit and garments of Monks; but in profession and manner of life, differing much from them. Therefore when as in that same terrible tithing of the Danes (in the time of Elphege) all the Monks were slain, except only four, the Canons that were now the greater number, gave unto their governor the name of Deane, from which place he was taken to be Archbishop. Going to Rome to fetch his Pall, he bought an arm of that blessed Father S. Augustine, Bishop of Hippo, for an hundred talents of silver, and a talon of gold, Godwin. and bestowed it upon the Church of Coventrie. He bestowed great pains and cost in repairing his Church and Monastery, destroyed and burnt by the Danes, and by his good advice, directed King Knute (that favoured him exceedingly) unto many honourable enterprises. He died, Octob. 29. Ann. 1038. having sat Archbishop seventeen years, and upward. — Egelno●h again much graced that sacred Seat, Who for his godly deeds, surnamed was the Good, Not boasting of his birth, though come of Royal blood: For that, nor at the first, a Monks mean Cowle despised, With winning men to God, who never was sufficed. — Eadfine next ensues, ●. Ea●●●●e Archbishop. To propagate the truth, no toil that did refuse. He was a secular Priest, and first Chaplain unto king Harold, who preferred him to the Bishopric of Winchester, from whence he was removed to this See of Canterbury. He departed this life Octob. 28. An. 1050. after he had continued Archbishop twelve years almost: All which time he was much oppressed with sickness; he was interred in his own Church, and at the place of his burial, many miracles are said to have been wrought. S. Lanfranke Archbishop▪ Lanfranke (of whom I have written before) is recorded by Capgrave amongst our English Saints: who saith, that upon his first entrance to this Metropolitical government, he found the Monks of Canterbury, sicut omnes fere tum temporis in Anglia secularibus similes: as all the rest were almost at that time in England, like to secular persons: for, Venari, aucupari, et potibus indulgere consueverunt: They accustomed to hunt, hawk, and give their mind to excessive drinking, which after a short time, by gentle persuasions, he reclaimed. He was a man affable, pleasant, and humble, skilful in many Sciences, prudent in counsel, and government of things, and for Religion and life most holy. Meruit ergo inter Sanctos annumerari: Therefore he deserves to be numbered amongst the Saints. S. Anselm Archbishop. Anselm for integrity of life, and depth of learning, even admirable, in regard whereof, and of the many miracles which are said to be wrought by him living, and by his Relics, he being dead; he was canonised a Saint, about four hundred years after his decease, at the great charges of john Morton, one of his Successors in the archbishopric. Out of his learned brain he brought forth into the world many profound works, at the least fifty several books or Treatises: many of which are still extant. The miracles likewise attributed to his holiness, are many, mentioned by Capgrave. The next that comes into this Catalogue, is that far famed Saint, Thomas Becket, S. Thomas commonly called Thomas of Canterbury▪ of whom I have already spoken enough in another place. Thus much then at this time out of Polyolbion, as followeth. Saint Thomas Becket then, which Rome so much did * honoured. hery, As to his christened name it added Canterbury; There to whose sumptuous Shrine the near succeeding ages, So mighty offerings sent, and made such pilgrimages, Concerning whom, the world since then hath spent much breath, And many questions made both of his life and death. If he were truly just, he hath his right, if no, Those times were much to blame, that have him reckoned so. Edmund (a man famous for his virtue and great learning) was borne at Abingdon in Berkshire, S. Edmund Archbishop. being son to one Edward Rich a Merchant, his mother's name was Mabell. In their elder years they forsook each other by mutual consent, and betook themselves to a Monastical life. Edmund their son they caused to be brought up in University College in Oxford. Having attained to reasonable perfection in the knowledge of Divinity (whereunto his study was chiefly addicted) he applied himself to preaching, wherein he took great pains, namely, in the Counties of Oxford, Gloucester, and Worcester, until such time as he was called to the Treasureship of Salisbury. From whence (little knowing of any such matter, and much against his mind) he was chosen (at the Pope's request, to the Monks of Christ-Church, being as then at Rome) to be Archbishop of this See, and consecrated at Canterbury, with all honour possible, by Roger, Bishop of London, the fourth of the Nones of April, about the year 1230. King Henry the third, thirteen Bishops, one and forty Lords and Earls, and others innumerable being there present; as it is thus recorded in the Annals of the Monastery of Waverley in Surrey. Edmundus Thesaurarius Sarum, Miss. in bib. Cott. a Domino Rogero Episcopo London, consistentibus et congratulantibus XIII. Episcopis. Domingo Rege, et XLI. Comitibus, et ceteris in numeris communiter congregatis. In Ecclesia Cant. in Archiepiscopum honorifice consecratur. Dominica qua canitur Letare Iher●salem. four viz. Nonas Aprilis. But howsoever he was thus solemnly consecrated, he presently fell into the king's displeasure, by opposing himself against the marriage of Elinor the king's sister with Simon Mountfort, Earl of Leicester, because upon the death of the Earl Martial, her first husband, she had vowed chastity. To have this vow dispensed withal, the King procured the Pope to send a Legate into England, his name was Otto a Cardinal. Him also this Archbishop offended, and that so grievously, by reprehending his monstrous covetousness, his bribery and extortion, as ever after he sought to work him all the mischief that he might. The Monks of Rochester had presented unto this Archbishop one Richard de Wendover, demanding of him consecration unto the Bishopric of their Church, which he utterly denied to afford, knowing the presented, to be a very unlearned and unsufficient man. Hereupon the Monks appealed to Rome, which the Archbishop understanding of, hasted him thither also. Otto the Legate endeavoured to stay him at home, and failing thereof, did his errand so well at Rome, as not only in that suit, but another also which he had against Hugh Earl of Arundel in another cause of appeal, he was overthrown, and condemned in a thousand Marks charges to his great disgrace and impoverishment. Being at Rome, he had complained of many great abuses in England, and amongst the rest, of the long vacancy of Bishoprickes. The Pope seemed willing to redress these things, and namely, concerning that matter, set down this order, 〈◊〉 Popes absolute power. That if any Cathedral Church continued void above six months, it should be lawful for the Archbishop to confer it where he list, as well as any smaller Benefice. The procuring of this order cost him a great sum of money. Yet no sooner was his back turned, but the Pope, at the king's request, revoked the same. Being thus continually vexed, thwarted, and disgraced, he departed into voluntary exile, and there bewailing the misery of his country, H●s tyranny spoilt and wasted by the tyranny of the Pope, spent the rest of his days in continual tears. Through extreme grief and sorrow, or (as some think) too much fasting, he fell first into a Consumption, and after into a strange kind of Ague. Whereupon he thought good to remove from the Abbey of Pontiniac in France (where he had lain ever since his coming out of England) and there departed this life the sixteenth of the Kalends of December, 1242. His heart and entrailes were buried at Soissy, his body at Pontiniac. Sanctus Edmundus Cantuarie Archiepiscopus, plenus virtutibus, et san●titate migravit ab hoc seculo, XVI. Kal. Decemb. et apud Pontiniacum sepultus est; Cuius merita miracula testantur. Hic erat Edmundus anima tum corpore mundus, Quem non immundus poterat pervertere mundus: Anglorum Genti faveas Edmunde petenti. Within six years after his death he was canonised a Saint, by Innocentius the fourth, who appointed the foresaid day of his death for ever to be kept holy in memory of him. jews the French king caused his body to be translated to a more honourable Tomb than it was first laid in, and bestowed a sumptuous Shrine upon him, covered with gold & silver, and richly adorned with many precious stones: where our Lord (saith his Legend) hath showed many a fair miracle for his holy servaunt saint Edmonde. This Edmund is the last Archbishop of Canterbury that I find to have been canonised; howsoever I dare pronounce, that since his days to these present times, wherein we live; we have had many Archbishops both for life and learning, as worthy the honour of canonisation, as was himself, or any of these by me before remembered. Thus much of this Diocese until I be further stored of funeral Monuments, or other matters therein according to my method, either by myself, or my friends; only let me tell you for a conclusion, that the whole Province of this Bishopric of Canterbury: The conclusion of this Diocesie. which first of all was apparelled by Austin the Monk with the Archbishop of London's Pall (as I have in part touched before) was at the first divided by Theodore (seventh Bishop) into five Dioceses only; howbeit in process of time, it grew to twenty and one, The 〈◊〉 of 〈…〉. besides itself, leaving to York (which by the first institution should have had as many as it) but Durham, Carlisle, and Chester only (except you reckon the Isle of Man. And whereas by the ordinance of Pope Gregory, either of these Archbishops should have under him twelve inferior Bishops, and that neither of them should be subject, or of less grace and dignity than other; Lanfrancke (thinking it good reason that he should make a Conquest of the English Clergy, since his Master King William had vanquished the whole Nation) contended (at Windsor) with Thomas Norman (Archbishop of York) for the Primacy, and there by judgement before Hugo the Pope's Legate, Convention for the 〈◊〉. recovered it from him; so that ever since the one is called, Totius Angliae Primas: and the other, Angliae Primas: without any further addition. Moreover, whereas before time, the place of this Archbishop in the general Council, was to sit next to the Bishop of Saint Ruffians. Anselm (the successor of this Lanfranke) (for recompense of the service he had done in oppugning the marriage of Priests, The Archbishop's 〈◊〉 the general 〈◊〉. and resisting the king, for the investiture of Clerks) was by Pope Vrbane endowed with this accession of honour, that he and his Successors, should from thenceforth have place in all general Counsels, at the Pope's right foot, who then said withal: Includamus hunc in orbe nostro, tanquam alterius orbis Papam, Let us include this Bishop in our own Orb, as it were the Pope or Father of another world. In former ages (saith Camden in this tract) during the Roman Hierarchy, the Archbishops of Canterbury were Primates of all Britain, Legates to the Pope, and as Vrbane the second said, The patriarchs, as it were, of another world. And thus the Archbishops of Canterbury, by the favour which Austin had with Gregory the Great, by the power of Lanfranke, and by the industry of Anselm, Lambard were much exalted: but how much that was to the grievous displeasure, and pining envy of the Archbishops of York, you shall perceive by that which followeth. King Henry the first, kept upon a time his stately Christmas at Windsor, where (the manner of our kings then being at certain solemn times to wear their Crowns) Thurstine of York having his Cross borne up before him) offered to set the Crown upon the king's head. But William of Canterbury withstood it stoutly, and so prevailed by the favour of the King, and the help of the standers by, that Thurstine was not only disappointed of his purpose, but he (and his Cross also) thrust quite out of the doors. William of York (the next in succession after Thurstine, both in the See and Quarrel) perceiving that the force of his Predecessor prevailed nothing, attempted by his own humble means (first made to the king, and after to the Pope) to win the Coronation of king Henry the second, from Theobald the next Archbishop of Canterbury: But when he had received repulse in that sort of suit also, and found no way left to make avengement upon his enemy, he returned home all wroth, and (as it was suspected) wreaked the anger upon himself. After this another hurly burly happened in a Synod assembled at Westminster, in the time of King Henry the second, before Cardinal Hugo (Pope Alexander's Legate) between Richard and Roger, than Archbishops of these two Sees, upon occasion, that Roger of York coming of purpose (as it should seem) first to the assembly, had taken up the place on the right hand of the Cardinal: Which when Richard of Canterbury had espied, he refused to sit down in the second room; complaining greatly of this prejudice done to his See. Whereupon after sundry replies of speech, the weaker in disputation (after the manner of Schoolboys in the streets) descended from hot words, to hasty blows: in which encounter the Archbishop of Canterbury (through the multitude of his attendants) obtained the better. So that he not only plucked the other out of his place, and all to rend his casule, Chimer, and Rochet, but also disturbed the holy Synod therewithal; in such wise, that the Cardinal, for fear, betook him to his feet, the company departed, their business undone, and the Bishops themselves moved suit at Rome, for the finishing of their controversy. By these, and such other successes, on the one side, the Bishops of Canterbury following, took such courage, that from thenceforth they would not permit the Bishops of York to bear up the Cross, either in their presence, or Province. And on the other side, the Bishops of York conceived such grief of heart, disdain and offence, that from time to time they spared no occasion to attempt both the one and the other. Whereupon, in the time of a Parliament holden at London, in the reign of King Henry the third, Boniface, Archbishop of Canterbury, interdicted the Londoners, because they had suffered the Bishop of York to bear up his Cross whiles he was in the City. And much ado there was (within a few years after) between Robert Kilwarby of Canterby, and William Giffard of York, because he of York advanced his Cross, as he passed through Kent towards the general Council. The like happened also, at two other several times, between Friar Peckham, Archbishop of Canterbury, and William Wickwane, and john de Roma, Archbishops of York, in the days of King Edward the first. At the length, the matter being yet once more set on foot, between Simon Islip (the Archbishop of this Province, and his adversary the incumbent of York for that time) King Edward the third, The end of the strife for the Primacy. in whose reign that variance was revived, resumed the matter into his own hand, and made a final composition between them. The which he published under his broad Seal to this effect. First, that each of them should freely, and without impeachment of the other, bear up his Cross in the others Province; but yet so, that he of York and his Successors for ever, in sign of subjection, should within two months after their inthronization, either bring, or send to Canterbury, the image of an Archbishop bearing a Cross, or some other jewel, wrought in fine gold, to the value of forty pounds, and offer it openly there upon Saint Thomas Beckets' Shrine: then, that in all Synods of the Clergy, and assemblies where the King should happen to be present, he of Canterbury should have the right hand, and the other the left. Finally, that in broad streets, and highways, their Crossebearers should go together, but that in narrow lanes, and in the entries of doors and gates, the Crosier of Canterbury should go before, and the other follow, and come behind. Thus (as you see) the Bishops of Canterbury evermore prevailing by favour, or other means; they of York were driven in the end, to give over in the plain field. Here endeth the Diocese of Canterbury▪ ANCIENT FUNERAL MONUMENTS WITHIN THE Diocese of ROCHESTER. THis Bishopric is so overshadowed by the nearness and greatness of the See of Canterbury, that it looks but like a good Benefice, for one of his Grace's Chaplains; yet for antiquity and dignity of a long succession of reverend Lord Bishops, it may equally compare with its neighbour of Canterbury. For they had both one Founder, to wit, Ethelbert king of Kent, who built this Church to the honour of Saint Andrew, and endowed it with certain lands, which he called Priestfield, in token that Priests should be sustained therewithal. Unto which, justus a Roman (of whom before) was consecrated Bishop by Saint Augustine, Ethelbert assenting thereto by his presence. Hardin●. ca 88 Austin then, made Clerk full well grounded justo that height, of Rochester full well bounded The Bishop then to preach, and help Austin And to baptise the folk by his doctrine. This City penned within so strait a room, was called in the time of the Saxon Kings, the Kentishmen Castle, and at this day, she and her little Diocese, may make their vaunt, of their impregnable fortification by the Name Royal; the main defence of Britain's great Monarchy, of the prowess of their ancient Inhabitants, of the pleasant situation of so many country▪ towns, and of the profits arising from the fruitfulness of the soil. Of all which read, if you please, this Hexasticon. . Vrbs antiqua, ferox, bella est Rocestria situ, Arx & finitimis imperiosa locis. Hic Deus è ligno fabricavit maenia firma, Quae sibi quaeque suis sunt modo tuta salus. Laeta racemiferos passimque per oppida colles Continet, ac culti iugera multa Soli. This Diocese (for the most part) is severed from that of Canterbury by the river of Medway: it consists only of four distinct Deaneries, namely, Rochester, Malling, Dartford, and Shorham. Yet Shorham is but a Peculiar to the Archbishop, who holds his prerogative wheresoever his lands do lie. This Bishopric is valued in the Exchequer at 358. l. 3. s. 7. d. farthing, and was wont to pay to the Pope for first-fruits 1300. ducats, and for Peter-pences, 5. l. 12. s. Eighty Bishops and one have sitten in this Chair of Rochester, more in number by nine then in that of Canterbury. His name that now governeth the Helm, is that right reverend Father in God, john Bowles, Doctor of Divinity, brought up in Trinity College in Cambridge. In the whole numerous race of these Bishops, Lamb. peramb. succeeding justus, three amongst others lie here interred (howsoever no remembrance is now remaining of them, by any funeral Monument) most notable: Paulinus, Gundulphus, and Gilbertus. Of which, the first, after his death, was honoured for a Saint. The second was the best Benefactor that ever this Church found. The third was so hateful and injurious to the Monks, that they neither esteemed him while he was living, nor wailed him at all, after that he was dead. Paulinus, Paulinus Bishop of Rochester, and first of York. a Roman borne, was first made Bishop of York by justus his predecessor in this place, as then Archbishop of Canterbury; about the 21. day of july, in the year of our Lord, 625. and so he is reckoned to be the first Archbishop of that Province. Beda. l. 2. c. ●. Yet I find a Succession of British Archbishops of that place long before his time, ever since the year of Grace, one hundred and eighty, or thereabouts. Wherein Lucius, king of the Britain's, received the Christian faith; the last of which race, was one Tadiacus; who, at the coming in of the Saxons, was, with most of his countrymen, enforced to fly into the mountainous countries of Cornwall, and Wales, Mss. in bib. Cot. and so consequently to forsake his pontifical Grace and Dignity. Of all which may it please you read these verses out of the collections of Tho. Talbot, sometime keeper of Records in the Tower. Turbatis rebus Archipresul Tadiacus, Ecclesie sedem deserit et patriam. Archipontificum Tadiacus sedis Eborum, Vltimus ex Britonum gentibus ille fuit. Corpora sanctorum simul omnia vasa sacrorum▪ Cunctas res reliquas transtulit ille sacras. Expulsi Britones nomen patriamque relinquunt, Dicti Wallenses nomine barbario. But to return again to Paulinus, from whom I am by occasion digressed, who, being now invested in the sanctimonious robes of a Bishop: never rested a moment, but either instructed the people, that flocked about him, by preaching, or else imparted Christ unto them by Baptism, which he ministered in the open fields and Rivers (Churches, Oratories, Fonts, or places of Baptism being not as yet builded) it is said that in the River of Small in Yorkshire, Bedal 〈◊〉. ●. he christened in one day above ten thousand men, besides women and little children; which said river was a long time after reputed sacred amongst the ancient English. Camd. in Ric●. He won miraculously Edwin, king of Northumberland, unto Christ: who with all the Nobility of his country, and most part of the Commons having received the true faith, came to the lavatory of holy regeneration, the eleventh year of his reign, which was the year of our Lord, 627. Thus Paulinus continued in the Province of York, B●l. l. 2. c. 2 preaching the word, and administering the blessed Sacraments, the space of seven years, even until the death of King Edwin; presently upon which, the State of his kingdom was so much infested with great slaughter, and cruel persecution; that no safety could therein be found, either for himself, or for the widow of King Edwin, Queen Edelburgh (both of them being God's instruments for the conversion of the Northumbrians to the embracement of Christian Religion) save only by flight. Whereupon he was constrained to leave his Bishopric, and to accompany the said Queen (with whom not long before he came into that country) back again into this kingdom of Kent. But of Paulinus his first admittance to York, and his return back, thus much in old Latin rhymes. Hist. Archiepis. Ebor. in bib. Cot. Benedicam Dominum mundi plasmatorem, Regem Regum omnium nostrum Saluatorem. Recolendo pariter stilo cum veraci, Dignos Archipresules sedis Eboraci. Anno sexcentesimo Christi incarnati Quinto cum vicesimo sunt novo creati. Quorum Pastor nobilis primus est Paulinus; Gregem pascit utilis dum regnat Edwinus. Septem annis regimen digne gubernavit, Tunc ad Austrum redijt, dum Gens Regem stravit. At his return from York, this See of Rochester was vacant: and at the offer of Archbishop Honorius, and at the request of King Edbald, he took upon him that charge, which he right wisely and religiously governed the space of thirteen years; until, at his full and ripe age, he was called away by death, to receive the glorious reward of his blessed labours. Which happened Octob. the tenth, Ann. 644.19. years 2. months, and 21. days, after his first consecration: This Paulinus (the third Bishop of this Diocese) was first interred under a very seemly Monument, in the old Church of King Ethelberts' foundation; but about four hundred and thirty years afterwards, being canonised for a Saint, his relics were removed, (enshrined in a coffin all of curious wrought silver) into the body of the new built Church, by Gundulphus one of his Successors: to the which (according to the manner of those times) much concourse of people came, with many rich oblations: such was his Epitaph. Ex lib. Anon. in bib Cott. Siste gradum clama qui perlegis hoc Epigramma Paulinum plora quem substraxit brevis hora Nobis per funus: de Presulibus fuit unus, Prudens, veridicus, constans, & firmus amicus Anni sunt rati Domini super astra regentis, Quadraginta dati quatuor cum sex quoque centis. Paulinus being dead, Honorius Archbishop of Canterbury, advanced one Ithamar, Ithamar Bishop of Rochester. a Kentishman borne, to his place, the first Englishman of this Nation that was a Bishop. A man nothing inferior either in life or learning to Paulinus, or any of his Italian predecessors. He departed this life about the year 656. Many miracles are said to be wrought by this religious Ithamar, and great concourse of people frequented the place of his burial, which was (at the first) in the body of the Church. But afterwards his relics were removed by Bishop Gundulph, Cap. in vit. S. Ithamari. and enshrined; and after him by john Bishop of this Church: who by his prayers at his Shrine was cured, ab acerrimo oculorum dolore, of a grievous pain in his eyes. For this and many other signs and tokens of his sanctity, he was canonised (if we may believe Capgrave) and the fourth of the Ides of june solemnised to his memory. Of whom a late writer, thus. Of Rochester, we have Saint Ithamar, being then In those first times, M. Drai●on▪ Polyol. 24. Song first of our native English men Residing on that seat. Before I come to Gundulphus, I will take Tobias by the way, Tobias Bishop of Rochester. an Englishman, the ninth Bishop of this Diocese: in whose commendations Nicholas Harpsfeld, sometime Archdeacon of Canterbury, thus writeth. I will use his own language. Tobias a Brithwaldo Archiepiscopo consecratus, Harps. Hi●● Eccles. Angl octa●um Saecul c. ●. vir ampliore, & honoratiore sede (si locus hominem, et homo locum non commendaret) dignissimus, qui Theodori & Adriani discipulus fuit. Quantum vero sub his praeceptoribus profecerit: luculenter ostendit Beda, qui cum omnium humanarum, divinarumque rerum scientissimum fuisse, & Latinam Graecamque linguam, tam accurate, atque maternam calluisse affirmat. He died about the year 726. Here lieth interred Gundulphus, Gundulph Bishop of Rochester. a Norman by birth, the thirtieth Bishop of Rochester, a man not greatly learned, but very wise and industrious: for he handled the matter so, as he procured not only his Church to be new built, but also the revenues to be increased. He recovered diverse lands and possessions encroached upon, and taken away in former times by Odo, Earl of Kent. Godwin de prae●ul. Ang. And besides diverse sums of money, which he contributed, he bought a certain Manor called Heddre, and gave it to this his own Church. In all these matters he was much helped by Lanfranke, Archbishop of Canterbury, who caused him to take into his Church, not secular Priests, as before had been accustomed, but Monks Benedictines. Gundulph himself being a Monk of that order, upon his first admittance to this See, he found only six secular Priests in the Church, who were endowed scarcely with sufficient means to live according to their place and callings. Before his death he increased his Church-revenues to that height, that it did and was able to maintain fifty Monks, some say threescore. The yearly value of this Monastery at the suppression amounted to 486. l. 5. s. The donations to this Monastery were confirmed by Pope Vrban the second, in these words following. Bulla Vrbani secundi in bib. ●im D'ewes Equit, aurat. Vrbanus Episcopus seruus seruorum Dei. Dilectis filijs Priori & capitulo Ecclesie Roffen. Ordinis sancti Benedicti Salutem, et Apostolicam benedictionem. Cum à nobis petitur quod iustum est et honestum, tam vigor equitatis, quam etiam ordo exigit rationis, ut id per solicitudinem officij nostri ad debitum perducatur effectum. Ea propter dilecti in Domino filij vestris just is postulationibus grato concurrentes assensu, personas vestras et Ecclesiam Roffen, in qua divino est is obsequio mancipati cum omnibus bonis que impresentiarum rationabiliter possidetis, aut in futurum just is modis prestante domino poteritis adipisci sub beati Petri protectione suscipimus at que nostra. Specialiter autem, terras, decimas, domus, possessiones, vineas, prata, et alta bona vestra, sicut ea iuste et pacifice obtinetis vobis et per vos eidem Ecclesie auctoritate Apostolica confirmamus, et presentis scripti patrocinio communuimus: Salua in predictis decimis moderatione Concilij generalis. Nulli ergo omnino hominum liceat hanc paginam nostre confirmationis infringere, vel ei ausu temerario contraire. Si quis autem hoc attemptare presumpserit, indignationem omnipotentis Dei et beatorum Petri et Pauli Apostolorum eius, se noverit incursurum. Dat. Ianu. III. Id. januar. Pontificatus nostri, Anno octavo. M ss. in bib. Cot. When as William the Conqueror built the great white square Tower of London, he appointed this Bishop to be principal Surveyor of that work: who was for that time lodged in the house of one Edmere a Burgess of London: as it is in the book of the Bishops of Rochester in these words. Gundulphus Episcopus mandato Willelmi Regis magni presuit operi magne Turris London, quo tempore hospitatus est apud quendam Edmerum Bargensem London. The Hospital of Chetham. This Bishop built a great part of the Castle of Rochester, namely, the great Tower which yet standeth. He founded an Hospital in Chetham, which he dedicated to the honour of Saint Bartholomew, for the relief of such people as were infected with the foul disease of the Leprosy: he endowed it with sufficient revenues; which grant was confirmed by king Henry the third, and discharged of all taxes, and tallages, by King Ed. the third. Malling Abbey. He founded the Abbey at Malling, which he consecrated to the blessed Virgin, and placed therein black Nuns. Which Nunnery he governed himself during all his life time. And lying at the point of death, he commended it to the charge of one avice, Lamb peramb. to whom notwithstanding he would not deliver the Pastoral staff, before she had promised canonical obedience, fidelity, and subjection to the See of Rochester; and protested by oath, that there should neither Abbess nor Nun be from thenceforth received into the house, without the consent and privity of him and his Successors. This Nunnery was valued at the suppression, at two hundred forty five pounds, ten shillings two pence halfpenny of yearly revenue. Over the Abbey gate yet standing, is the likeness of a Pastoral staff. This good Bishop died the seventh of March, 1107. and was buried where you see the portraitures of certain Bishops, sometimes artificially cut in stone and Alabaster, but now cut almost all in pieces, dismembered, and shamefully abused (as all other Monuments in this Church are, of any antiquity) so that neither reading, nor tradition can give us any true notice of their names. Gilbert de Glanuil (before mentioned) a gentleman of an ancient family, Gilbert de Glanvill Bishop of Rochester was consecrated to this Bishopric, September 29. Ann. 1185. Between this man and his Monks of Rochester was long and continual debate; by occasion whereof, he took away from them all their movable goods, all the ornaments of their Church, their writings and evidences, yea and a great part of their lands, Godwin. possessions and privileges; wanting money to follow their suits against him, they were forced to coin the silver of Saint Paulinus Shrine into money. These controversies were ended no otherwise then by his death, which happened, june 24. 1214. having ruled his contentious charge 29. years. But the hatred of these Monks against him was so dying with him, as they would afford him no manner of Obsequies, but buried him most obscurely, or rather basely, without either ringing, singing, or any other solemnity; and furthermore abused him with such like rime-doggerell. Glanvill Gilbert us nulla bonitate refertus Hic iacet immitis & amator maxime litis; Et quia sic litem, dum vixit, solet amare, Nunc ubi pax nulla est, est aptior inhabitare. These black Monks (whom I think, if the matter were well examined, The Hospital in Strewed. would prove to be in the fouler fault) were too malicious to remember that this Bishop founded S. Mary's Hospital at Strewed, near adjoining to this City, called the New work, and endowed it witha livelihood of 52. l. of yearly profits, which it now enjoyeth. Here lieth entombed the body of Walter de Merton, Walterus Mer●ton Bishop of Rochester. so surnamed of Merton, a village in Surrey, where he was borne, sometimes Lord Chancellor of England, Bishop of this See, and Founder of Merton College in Oxford: To whose memory Sir Henry Savill (that rare Grecian, Sir Hen. Savill. and exact reviuer of Antiquities, now deceased) late Warden of the said College, and Provost of Eaton, with the fellows of the same, taking down an old marble Tomb, have erected another Monument over him of Touch and Alabaster, bearing this Inscription. Waltero de Merton Cancellario Angliae sub Henrico tertio, Episcopo Roffensi sub Edwardo primo Rege, unius exemplo, omnium quotquot extant Collegiorum Fundatori; maximorum Europae totius ingeniorum faelicissimo parenti: Custos & Scholar's domus Scholarium de Merton in Vniversitate de Oxon. communibus Collegij impensis debitum pietatis Monumentum posuere. Ann. Dom. 1598. Henrico Savile Custode. Obijt in vigilia Simonis & judae Ann. Dom. 1277. Edwardi primi quinto. Inchoaverat Collegium Maldoniae in agro Surr. Ann. Dom. 1264. Hen. tertij 48. cui dein salubri consilio Oxonium. Anno 1270. trans. extrema manus faelicissimis (ut credi par est) auspicijs accessit anno 1274. ipsis Cal. Aug. anno Regni Regis Edwardi primi secundo. Magne senex titulis, Musarum sede sacrata Maior, Mertonidum maxim progeny: Haec tibi gratantes post saecula sera nepotes, En votiva locant marmora, sancte parens. Haymo s. Haymo de Heath, or Hythe, so named of Hithe, a Town in this tract, where he was borne, lieth buried by the North wall: he was Confessor to King Edward the second. This man built much at his Manor houses of Troscliffe and Hawling. In the Town of Hithe before named, he founded the Hospital of Saint Bartholomew, S. Barthol. Hosp. in Hithe. for relief of ten poor people, endowing the same with twenty Marks of yearly revenue. He resigned his Bishopric into the Pope's hands, of whom he had received consecration in the Court at Rome, In bib. Cott. Ann. 1352. and lived about some six years after that a private life with the Monks in this Priory. This Bishop (saith the book of Rochester) bought a precious Mitre which was Thomas Beckets', of the Executours of the Bishop of Norwich, which he offered at the high Altar, on S. Paul's day, 1327. john de Shepey Bishop of Rochester, Lord Treasurer. john de Shepey, so likewise surnamed from the place of his birth, upon Haymo his resignation, was by the Pope elected to this Bishopric; he was Lord Treasurer of England, in the two and thirtieth year of King Edward the third, in which office he continued about three years, even until his death, which happened the nineteenth of October, 1360. His portraiture is in the wall over his place of Burial. Io. Low Bishop of Rochester. Here, over against Bishop Merton, lieth buried, under a fair Marble Tomb, the body of john Lowe, Bishop of this Diocese, borne in Worcestershire, and brought up in Oxford, where he proceeded Doctor of Divinity. He lived for a time in the Abbey of the Friars Augustine's in Worcester, Bale Cent. 4. of which order he was Provincial; Vir aetate sua ab omni parte doctus: So that in regard of his great learning, and painfulness in preaching, he was preferred first to the Bishopric of Saint Asaph, Godwin. by King Henry the sixth, and after that translated to this of Rochester; he writ diverse learned works, and was a careful searcher after good books, so as diverse copies of some ancient Fathers had utterly perished but for his diligence. He died the year 1467. having governed the See of Saint Asaph four years, and and this of Rochester four and twenty. The inscription upon his Tomb is almost all gone, only these words remaining, ...... johannis Low Epis ...... ...... miserere mei Domine. Credo videre Dominum in terra viventium. O quam breve spatium huius mundi sicomp ..... Sic mundi gloria transit. Sancte Andree & Augustine, orate prop nobis. I do not find the certainty of any other of the Bishops of this Diocese to have been buried in this Cathedral Church; for most commonly in ancient times, as now, they departed from this place, before they departed from the world, this Ecclesiastical preferment being but a step to some higher advancement. A word therefore or two of Saint William here enshrined, and the like of the Priory, and so I will take my leave of this most ancient, and no less reverend Episcopal Chair; and go to Gillingham; for the rest of the funeral Monuments in this Church, are of later times; which I reserve for another Volume. This Priory erected by Gundulph, and the number of her religious Votaries, increased by him from six secular Priests, Priory of Rochester. to threescore black Canons or Monks, with ample revenues for their maintenance, was, within the compass of one hundred years; what by casual fire, what by the falling out of the Monks, and Bishop Glanvill, and what by the calamities it sustained in the wars of King john, brought to that ruin and poverty, that the beauty of all her goodly buildings was altogether defaced, her Church burned, her sacred utensiles, by robbery and suits in law, embezzled, misspent, and consumed, and the whole Covent greatly indebted. Anno, Lib. Rossen. in bib. Cott. 1179.3. Id. Aprilis Rofensis Ecclesia cum omnibus officinis, & cum tota urbe infra & extra muros combusta est, anno 97. ex quo Monachi in eadem Ecclesia instituti sunt. It was now therefore high time, saith Master Lambard, to devose some way whereby this Priory and Church of Rochester, might be, if not altogether, restored to the ancient wealth and estimation, yet at the least somewhat relieved from this penury, nakedness, and abjection. Therefore Laurence of Saint martin's, Bishop of this Church, and Counsellor of King Henry the third, perceiving the common people to be somewhat drawn (by the fraud of the Monks) to think reverently of one William, Lamb. per amb.. that lay buried in the Church, and knowing well, that there was no one way, so compendious to gain, as the advancement of a pilgrimage, procured at the Pope's Court, the canonisation of the said William, S. William of Rochester. with Indulgence to all such as would offer at his Tomb, underpropping by means of this new Saint, some manner of reverend opinion of the Church, which before (through the defacing of the old Bishop Paulinus his Shrine) was declined to naught. This Saint William was by birth a Scot of Perthe, Neva Legenda Capgraui●▪ by trade of life a Baker of bread; in charity so abundant, that he gave to the poor the tenth loaf of his workmanship, in zeal so fervent, that in vow he promised, and in deed attempted to visit the holy Land, and the places where Christ was conversant on earth. In which journey, as he passed through Kent, he made Rochester his way, where after that he had rested two or three days, he departed toward Canterbury, but ere he had gone far from the City, his servant that waited on him, led him (of purpose) out of the highway, and spoilt him both of his money and life. This done, the servant escaped, and the Master (because he died in so holy a purpose of mind) was by the Monks conveyed hither to Saint Andrew's, laid in the Choir, and promoted by the Pope, as you have heard, from a poor Baker to a blessed Martyr. Here (as they say) he showed miracles very plentifully, which made people of all sorts offer unto him wondrous liberally, even until these latter times; insomuch, that with two years' oblations at his Shrine, one William de Hoo, a Sacrist, or keeper of the holy treasures, of this Church, built the whole Choir as it now stands. Richard Walden a Monk and sacrist, Lib. Rossen, in bib. Cot. built the South Isle, Richard East-gate, a Monk and Sacrist, began the North Isle of the new work, towards Saint William's gate, which Friar William de Axenham almost finished. Geoffrey de Hadenham Prior, paid thirteen hundred pounds in one day, to certain creditors, to whom this Church stood indebted, since the time of her troubles, the same man bought certain lands in Banerkin, and Darent, which he gave to this House; and bequeathed to the same 300. l. in money upon his decease. He built the Dorter in the Priory, and the Altar of Saint Edmund in the Church. To which, or rather to the high Altar, Haymo, Bishop of this Diocese, offered up a precious Mitre, which sometime belonged to Archbishop Becket, and which he bought of the Executours of john Bishop of Norwich. Thus by the gains of William, the Baker's Shrine, and by the pious endeavours and bounteous donations of diverse well disposed persons, this Monastery was in short time re-edified, adorned, and advanced to her former height, glory, wealth, and estimation. So that it was valued by the Commissioners of the late suppression, at four hundred eighty six pounds, eleven shillings, five pence, by year. Gillingham. In this Church are diverse fair Monuments fairly kept, of the Beaufits, an ancient family, whose chief seat was at Grauch-court within this Parish, as I was informed. Io. Beaufits and Isabel his wife. Ici gist jehan Beaufits qi morust 25 iour novemb. l'an de dieu, 1427. et Isabel sa feme que morust la 30. iour de Decemb. 1419. jesu noster saviour de la grand pite De lor alms eit mercy. Amen. Io. Beaufits and Alice his wife. Hic iacet johannes Beaufits, filius johannis Beaufits, Ar. et Alicia uxor eius, qui quidem Iohannes obiit 25. novemb. Ann. Dom. 1433. quorum, etc. Rob. Beaufits & Sara his wife. Hic iacet Robertus Beaufits, qui ob. 1381. et Sara uxor eius, que obiit 1395 Curio nunc in puluere dormio. Will. Beaufits Hic iacet Willelmus Beaufits qui ob. 19 Marcii, 1433. Cuius. joan Bamme & john Bamme her son. Here lieth joan Bamme, sometime the wife of Master Richard Bamme Esquire, daughter of john Marten, sometime chief justice of the Common Pleas, and mother of john Bamme, who lieth on the North side of this Chapel. Which said joan deceased in the year of grace, 1431. Here was a pilgrimage to our Lady of Gillingham. Ailesford. The ●●iery. Richard, Lord Grey of Codnor in Darbishire, in the year 1240. founded here a religious house of white Friars, Carmelites, where now is seen (saith Camden) the fair habitation of Sir William Sidley, Com. in ●en●. a learned knight, painfully and expensfully studious of the common good of his country, as both his endowed house for the poor, The Almshouse o● Hospital. and the bridge here with the common voice dotestifie. Not far from this Town of Ailesford, lie interred the bodies of Catigern and Horsa; Catigern and Horsa. who hand to hand, killed one the other in a set battle; Catigern was the brother of Vortimer king of the Britain's, and Horsa brother of Hengist the Saxon. But this battle, as also their burial, are the best set down by Camden, out of Lambards' perambulation. This Town (saith he) was named in the British tongue, Saissenaeg haibail of the Saxons there vanquished, like as others in the very same sense termed it Anglesford. For Guortimer the Britain, The battle of Ailesford. Guortigerus son, did here set upon Hengist, and the English Saxons, whom being disrayed, and not able to abide a second charge, he put all to flight; so as they had been utterly defeated for ever, but that Hengist, skilful and provident to prevent, and divert danger, withdrew himself into the Isle of Tenet, until that the invincible vigour and heat of the Britanes was allayed, and fresh supplies came to his succour out of Germany. In this battle were slain the Generals of both sides, Catigern the Britain, and Horsa the Saxon, of whom the one buried at Horsted, Horsted. not far from hence, gave name to the place: and Catigern honoured with a stately and solemn funeral, is thought to have been interred near unto Ailisford, where under the side of an hill, Catigern his sepulchre. I saw four huge, rude, hard stones erected, two for the sides, one transuersall in the midst between them; and the hugest of all piled and laid over them, in manner of the British Monument, which is called Stonehenge, but not so artificially with Mortis and tenants. Verily the unskilful common people call it at this day, of the same Catigern, Keiths or Kits, Coty house. The like Monument was of Horsa at Horsted, which storms and time have now devoured. This battle was smitten in the year of Grace 457. Addington. Hic iacent Richardus Charles et Alicia uxor, Ric: Charles & Alice his wife. qui quidem Ric. obiit, An. Dom. 1370. facile contemnit omnia ...... Hic iacet Willelmus Suayth Ar. dominus de Addington, Will Suayth & Alice his wife. ac vicecomes Cantie et Alicia uxor eius ob..:. Marcii Ann. 1464. Bonis et mors et vita dulcis. Hic iacet Robertus Watton, Rob. Watton. Dominus et Patronus istius Ecclesie, qui obiit die Ascentionis Anno 1444. Hic iacent Willelmus Watton, Will. Watton, Benet and Alice his wives. Ar. Dominus istius ville, Benedicta, et Anna, uxores eius, qui Willelmus obiit 29. Decemb. 1464. Hic iacet Robertus Watton Ar. filius et heres Willelmi Watton Armigeri, Rob. Watton & Alice his wife. et Alicia uxor eius filia johannis Clark unius Baronum Scaccarii Regis, qui Robertus istius ville Dominus et Ecclesie verus Patronus ob. 4. novemb. anno 1470. Hic iacet johannes Northwood, Io. Norwood. Arm. filius et heres ..... Northwood ..... obiit 30. April, 1416. Of this man. and of his Manor of Northwood or Norwood, The Manor of Norwood: thus much out of Lambard. In the days of King Edward the Confessor (saith he) one hundred Burgesses of the City of Canterbury, ought their suit to the Manor of Norwood; the buildings are now demolished: but the Manor was long time in the possession of certain gentlemen of the same name: of which race, one was buried in the body of the Church at Addington, in the year 1416. Otteham. Hic iacet johannes Constenton Ar. qui ob. 2. April 1426. et Sara Conghurst uxor eius. Io. Constenton and Sara his wife. I find by ancient deeds sans Date that one Ralph de Dene was the founder of a Religious house here at Otteham, Otteham Abbey of Canons regular, confirmed in these words by the gifts of certain lands from one Ralph de Iclesham: and some little rent, William de Marci, and Ela his wife. Sciant, etc. quod ego Radulphus de Iclesham dedi et confirmavi, Deo & Ecclesie Sancti Laurencij de Oteham, terram in Oteham, etc. pro anima Radulphi de Dene Aui mei qui predictam Ecclesiam fundavit, etc. Sciant presents, etc. quod nos Willelmus de Marci et Ela uxar mea, dedimus et concessimus Deo et Sancto Laurentio de Oteham, In Archi●is Turris London. et Canonicis ibidem Deo seruientibus, in liberam & perpetuam Eleemosinam, sex denarios quos predicti Canonici nobis annuatim soluebant de terra Roberti Rug. etc. Hij sex denarij sint ad emendacionem refectionis conventus in die Sancti Laurencij. Six pence for exceed upon S. Laurence day. Hanc que donationem pro salute animarum nostrarum, et Antecessorum nostrorum, & heredum nostrorum Sigillis nostris confirmavimus. Testibus, Radulfo Capellano. Ailfredo Capellano, Willelmo de Marci, etc. But these Canons did not continue long at Otteham, the situation of the place being unfitting, and very chargeable for so many living together in a Covent; whereupon by the said Ela, daughter and heir of the said Ralph Dene, and as then the widow of jordan de Sackvile (one of the Ancestors of that right honourable and no less ancient family of the Sackviles, Earls of Dorset) they were removed to Begam, a village in the South-west Verge of this County adjoining to Sussex: such was the Charter for their removal. In Arch. Tur. London. Sciant presents, etc. quod ego Ela de Saukevil, filia Radulphi de Dene, in viduitate et legia potestate mea, divine pietatis intuitu concessi Abbati et Canonicis de Otteham propter magnas et intollerabiles inedias loci de Otteham, quod transferant sedem Abbathie de Otteham, usque ad Begeham qui dicitur Beulin, salua tenentia et dignitate advocacionis, quam mihi et heredibus meis tam vita quam in morte tenentur. Preterea confirmavi omnes donaciones eisdem Canonicis quas pater meus eis dedit, et Robertus de Dene frater meus eis dedit. Begham Priory. Ela de Sackvile and Sir Robert Turnham founder's. The land whereupon this house was built, was given by one Sir Robert de Turnham, a valiant knight, who flourished in the reign of king Richard the first, and went with him to the wars in the holy Land; as these old rhymes do testify. Rob. Glocest. King Richard with good intent To yat cite of jafes went On morn he sent aftur Sir Robart Sakevile Sir William Wateruile Sir Hubart and Sir Robart of Turnham. Sir Bertram Brandes and john de Saint john. And speaking further of this Turnhams' valour, he saith▪ Robart of Turnham with his Falchion 'Gan to crack many a crown. But he was so busy in cracking the Saracens Crowns, The death of Sir Robert Turnham. that he took the less heed (I think) of his own, for then and there he was slain, together with Robert de Bellemont, surnamed Blanchmaines, Earl of Leicester, with other noble warriors: whose great loss king Richard doth thus lament. Alas he said yat I was boar, Rob. Glo●. My good Barons byth' nigh forlese, Aslaw is Robart of Lecestre, That was my curteys' master, Every * hair. her on him was worth a knight. And Robart of Turnham that was wight, William of Arsne, and Sire Gerard, Sire Bertram, and Sire Pepard, Thesbeth slaw and well more. But to return to Ela de Sackvile, who having finished her religious fabric, did dedicate it to the honour of the blessed Virgin Mary, and gave it the name of a Priory, which was valued at the suppression to 152. l. 19 s. 4. d. ob. Sir Thomas Sackuile knight, Sir Tho. Sackvile knight, son and heir of Sir Andrew Sackuile, by his second wife joan Burgese, who was Sheriff of Sussex, and Surrey, the eight of King Henry the fourth, was here interred in the Church of Beigham; as appears by these words in his last Will, dated the first of December, 1432. In the prerogative office. Ego Tho. Sakevile miles de Com. Sussex, volo me sepultum esse in Ecclesia de Beigeham. Item lego Edwardo ●ilio meo omnia utensilia domus me, etc. He died in the same year, the eleventh of King Henry the sixth. Here sometime, in our Lady's Chapel, lay interred the body of Richard Sackevile Esquire, who died Ann. 1524. This Church was, and that of Withiam in Sussex now is, greatly honoured by the funeral Monuments of the Sackviles: of whom I shall have more occasion to speak hereafter. Pensherst. Here in this Church under a marble Monument, Sir Stephen Pensherst knight. whereon is yet to be seen the portraiture of a knight completely armed, lieth interred (as it is delivered unto me by tradition) the body of Sir Stephen Pensherst, or Stephen de Penchester, (for so also I find him called) that famous Lord Warden of the Five Ports, who flourished in the reign of King Edward the first, as appears by this Record following. Rex scripsit Stephano de Penecestre Constabulario Castri de Dovor. et custodi Quinque Portuum providere Naues et galeas sufficientes contra Regis adventum in Angliam. Ex Arch. Turr●● London. Et meliores et fideliores Regis amicos portuum predict. secretius premuniat. Vt ipsi caute et sine strepitu preparent se ad veniend. in obuiam Regis in adventu suo supradicto, etc. Dat. apud West. etc. 4. julij. Claus. Anno 1. Ed. primi, Cedul. pendent. Here lie also interred diverse of that ancient and highly renowned Family of the Sidneys', Sidney▪ whose Monuments of any great antiquity, together with their Inscriptions, are worn away with time. Who derive their race from William de Sidney, Chamberlain to king Henry the second. Out of which came (saith Camden) Sir Henry Sidney, ●amd in Ken●. that renowned Lord Deputy of Ireland, who of the daughter of john Dudley, Duke of Northumberland, and Earl of Warwick, begat Philip and Robert, whom our late Sovereign Lord King james created Baron Sidney of Penshert, Viscount Lisle, and Earl of Leicester. And to give more lustre to these foresaid honours, he was elected knight and companion of the honourable Order of the Garter, at an extraordinary Chapter holden at Greenwich, the day of May, Ann. 1616. and installed at Windsor the seventh of july next following. This Earl died the day of .... Ann. Sir Philip Sidney knight. But here I cannot pass over in silence Sir Philip Sidney the elder brother, being (to use Camden's words) the glorious star of this family, a lively pattern of virtue, and the lovely joy of all the learned sort, fight valiantly with the enemy before Zutphen in Gelderland, died manfully. This is that Sidney, whom, as Gods will was, he should be therefore borne into the world, even to show unto our age a sample of ancient virtues: so his good pleasure was, before any man looked for it, to call for him again, and take him out of the world, as being more worthy of heaven than earth. Thus we may see, perfect virtue suddenly vanisheth out of sight, and the best men continue not long. Seigneur Des Accords in his book entitled, Les Bigarrures (a miscellany or hotchpotch of sundry collections) amongst many choice Epitaphs, hath one, selected out of the works of Isaac du Bellay, the French Poet, excellently composed, to the memory of Sieur de Bonivet, a great Commander in the wars; which by some English wit was happily imitated, and ingeniously applied to the honour of this our worthy chieftain Sir Philip; written upon a Tablet, and fastened to a pillar in S. Paul's Church London, the place of his burial, as the sequel will more plainly show. The Epitaph for Mons. Bonivet: La France, et le Piedmont, les cieux, et les Arts, Les Soldats, et le Mondeont fait comme six parts, De ce grand Bonnivet: cor une si grand chose, Dedant un seul tombeau ne pouuoit estre enclose. La France en a le corpse, que elle aurit esleve: Le Piedmont a le ceur, qu'il avoit esprowe: Les cieux en ont l'esprit, et les Arts la memoire, Les Soldats le regret, et le monde la gloire. In English as followeth. France, and Piedmont, the Heavens, and the Arts, The Soldiers and the world have made six parts, Of Great Bonnivet: for who will suppose, That only one Tomb can this man enclose? France hath his body, which she bred and well loved, Piedmont his heart, which his valour had proved. The Heavens have his soul, the Arts have his Fame, The Soldiers the grief, the world his good name. A brief Epitaph upon the death of that most valiant, and perfect honourable Gentleman, Sir Philip Sidney, knight, late Governor of Flushing in Zealand, who received his death's wound at a battle near Zutphen in Gelderland, the 22. day of September, and died at Arnhem the 16. day of October, 86. Whose Funerals were performed, and his body interred, within this Cathedral Church of Saint Paul in London, the 16. day of February next following in the year of our Lord God, 1586. England, . netherlands, the Heavens, and the Arts, The Soldiers and the world have made six parts, Of noble Sidney: For who will suppose, That a small heap of stones can Sidney enclose? England hath his body, for she it fed, netherlands his blood in her defence shed: The Heavens have his soul, the Arts have his Fame, The Soldiers the grief, the world his good Name. These Elegies also following, penned in the praise of the said Philip, by our late Sovereign Lord King james, that sole Monarch of many Nations, give a glorious lustre to his Heroic actions. In Philippi Sidnaei interitum, Illustrissimi Scotorum Regis Carmen. Armipotens cui ius in fortia pectora Mavors, Tu Dea quae cerebrum perrumpere digna Tonantis, Tuque adeo biiugae proles Latonia r●pis Gloria, deciduae cingunt quam collibus artes, Duc tecum, et querula Sidnai funera voce Plangite, nam vester fuerat Sidnaeus alumnus. Quid genus, et proavos, et spem, floremque iwentae, Immaturo obitu raptum sine fine retexo? Heu frustra queror: heu rapuit Mors omnia secum▪ Et nihil ex tanto nunc est Heroe superstes, Praeterquam decus, et nomen virtute paratum, Doctaque Sidneas testantia Carmina laudes. The same translated by the said King. Thou mighty Mars, the Lord of Soldiers brave, And thou Minerve, that dois in wit excel, And thou Apollo, who dois knowledge have Of every art that from Parnassus fell. With all your Sisters that th'air on do dwell, Lament for him, who duly served you all: Whom in you wisely all your arts did mell, Bewail (I say) his unexpected fall. I need not in remembrance for to call His race, his youth, the hope had of him ay, Since that in him doth cruel Death appall Both manhood, wit, and learning every way: But yet he doth in bed of Honour rest, And evermore of him shall live the best. Eiusdem Regis in Eundem Hexasticon. Vidit et exanimem tristis Cytheraea Philippum, Flevit, et hunc Martem credidit esse suum. Eripuit digitis gemmas, colloque monile, Mars iterum nunquam ceu placitura foret; Mortuus humana qui lusit imagine Divam, Quid faceret iam, si viveret, ille, rogo. In English. When Venus sad saw Philip Sidney slain, She wept, supposing Mars that he had been: From finger's Rings, and from her neck the chain She plucked away, as if Mars ne'er again She meant to please. In that form he was in Dead, and yet could a Goddess thus beguile, What had he done, if he had lived this while? Tunbridge. In this ruinous Church, which (like the Ca●tle) carries with it a show of venerable antiquity, I find no funeral Monument of elder times remarkable; in the north window only are depicted the portraitures of the Lord Hugh Stafford, kneeling in his coat-armour, and his Bow-bearer Thomas Bradlaine by him, with this inscription. Hugh Lord Staff. and Tho. Bradlaine his Bow-bearer. Camd in Kent. Orate pro animabus Domini Hugonis Stafford, et Thome Bradlaine Arcuar. .... This Hugh Lord Stafford, afterwards Earl of Buckingham, was Lord of this Manor of Tunbridge, by his grandmother Margaret, the only daughter and heir of Sir Hugh Audley, Earl of Gloucester; of whom hereafter, when I come to Stone in Staffordshire, the place of his burial. Priory of Tunbridge. Near to the ruinous walls of the Cast●●●stood a Priory pleasantly seated, which in the shipwreck of such religious structures, was dashed all a pieces: founded by Richard de Clare, Earl of Gloucester, about the year 1241. for Canons of Saint Augustine's order, and consecrated to S. Mary Magdalen: Which Priory was valued by the Commissioners at the suppression to be yearly worth 169. l. 10. s. 3. d. Richard de Clare Earl of Gloucester. This Richard the founder died at Emmersfield, in the Manor-house of john Lord Crioil here in Kent; 14. julij, Ann. 1262. his bowels were buried at Canterbury, his body at Tewxbury, and his heart here in his own Church at Tunbridge. Lib. Theoles. Mss. He was Vir nobilis et omni laude dignus: To whose everlasting praise this Epitaph was composed. Hic pudor Hippoliti, Paridis gena, sensus Vlissis Aeneae pietas, Hectoris ira iacet. Chaste Hippolyta, Camd. Remains. and Paris fair, Ulysses wise and sly, Aeneas kind, fierce Hector, here jointly entombed lie. Here sometime lay entombed the bodies of Hugh de Audley, Hugh de Audley Earl of Gloucester, and Margaret his wife. second son of Nicholas Lord Audley of H●leigh Castle, in the County of Stafford, who was created Earl of Gloucester by king Edward the third; and by the marriage of Margaret, second daughter of Gilbert de Clare, Earl of Gloucester, surnamed the red, and sister and coheir to Gilbert the last Earl of that surname; Lord of Tunbridge. This Hugh died the tenth of November 1347. Ann. 21. Ed. 3. I find little of him remarkable, save his good fortunes, Vincent Discovery of errors. being a younger brother to marry so great an inheritrix, and to be exalted to such titles of honour. His wife Margaret (first married to Pierce Gaveston Earl of Cornwall) died before him in the year of our Lord, 1342. the 13. day of April. They were both together sumptuously entombed by Margaret their daughter, the only heir of her parents, wife to Ralph de Stafford, Earl of Stafford. The said Ralph de Stafford and Margaret his wife, Ralph Earl of Stafford, and Margaret his wife. were here likewise entombed, at the feet of their father and mother; this Ralph, by the marriage of his wife Margaret, writ himself in his Charters and deeds, Baron of Tunbridge. And a noble Baron he was; and the first Earl of Stafford, created by Edward the third, the fifth of March, in the twentieth and fifth year of his reign. Mills in the Catalogue of Honour, sets down this man's pedigree after this manner, drawn from William the conquerors time, Bagot Baron of Stafford. still abiding in the male line. Nicholas the son of Robert, begot Robert the second, whose daughter and heir married to Henry de Bagot, he in the right of his wife was made Baron of Stafford; and he begat another called Heruey, who left the name of Bagot, and took on him the name of Stafford: and he begot Robert the third, father to Nicholas the second, father to Edmund, Vincent. Dis. errors. who begot this first Earl of Stafford, all successively Barons and Lords of Stafford. He died the 31. of August, in the year 1372. Margaret his wife died the seventh of September, 1349. This Earl was knight of the honourable order of the Garter at the first foundation. Andrew jud (the son of john jud of this Town of Tonebridge) sometime Lord Mayor of London, The foundation of the free-school at Tonbridge. erected here a fair free-school, and an Almshouse nigh Saint Helen's Church in London, and left to the Skinners (of which company he was) lands, to the value of threescore pounds, three shillings and eight pence the year; for the which they be bound to pay twenty pound to the Schoolmaster, eight pound to the Usher yearly for ever, and four shillings the week to the six Almes-people, and twenty five shillings four pence the year in Coals, for ever. This Andrew was Lord Mayor of London the year 1550. the fourth of King Ed. the sixth. Died in the year following, and was buried at S. Helen's aforesaid, within Bishopsgate ward. Senenoke. Orate pro anima Edwardi Bowrgchier filij et heredis Thome Bowrgchier militi filii Iohannis Domini de berner's: Edward Bourchier, vulgo Bowser, and Agnes his wife. et pro anima Domine Agnete uxoris dicti Thome Bowrgchier, filie Thome Carleton militis, qui quidem Edwardus obijt 24. Augusti, 1496. Thomas Bourchier Archbishop of Canterbury, great Uncle to this Edward, bought of Sir William Fienes, Lord Say and Sele, (and built anew) that stately house of Knoll hereunto adjoining, which he left to his kindred, the cause of their residence in this country. Haydok Haymund. Ecce sub hoc premitur, de funere cuius Curia Primatus Anglorum tota soluta est In lachrymas; Haydok Haymundus vir preciosus Moribus, eloquio dulcis Philologus ille, Atque Theologicus clarus fuit ille, viarum Rupta restauravit, letus tribuebat egenis. Non auri cupidus, non ambitiosus honoris Extitit, extinctum Decembris luce secunda. Quem mors abripuit Dominoque .... famulari jussit; is annus erat Domini quem C. quater M. que LXX complectimur, hunc bone Christ In te confisum bonis celestibus auge. Amen. Robert Law Priest. Qui pro aliis orat pro seipso laborat. Orate pro anima Roberti Law Capellani capelle beat Marry istius Ecclesie ... obijt .... 1400. Cuius. ... Tho. Brooke and Clemence his wife. Pray for the souls of Thomas Brooke, and Clemence Brook his wife, which Clemence Brooke died, 1510.24. Febr. On whose soul. Tho. Gregby. Pray for the sowls of Tho. Gregby, Alice and Godliffe his wife's, and for the sowls of his father, and mother, Richard Gregbye, Margaret and Agnes his wyfs, which Thomas deceysed 22. April, 1515. On whose sowls. Robert Totleherst. Pray for the sowl of Robart Totleherst, sometym servant unto the Lord Cardinal Bourchier, who died ..... 1512. john Yardly and joan his wife. Pray for the sowls of john Yardley, Sergeant of Arms to our Sovereygn Lord the king, and joan Pette his wife, which john died, An. 1522. William Potkin and Alexandra his wife. Hic iacent Willelmus Potkine & Alexandra uxor eius, qui quidem Willelmus obijt 1. januar. 1499. et dicta Alexandra obijt 6. Dec. 1501. quorum. Respicias Lector nostrum Epitaphium ut ●res pro nobis Deum. The foundation of the School and Almeshouse in Sennock. Lamb. Peramb. About the latter end of the reign of king Edward the third (to use M. Lambards' words) there was found, lying in the streets of Sennocke, a poor child, whose parents were unknown, and he for the same cause named after the place where he was taken up, William Sennock. This orphan was, by the help of some charitable persons, brought up and nourtured in such wise, that being made an Apprentice to a Grocer in London, he arose by degrees, in course of time, to be Mayor, and chief Magistrate of that City. At which time, calling to his mind the goodness of Almighty God, and the favour of the Townsmen extended towards him, he determined to make an everlasting Monument of his thankful mind for the same; and therefore in the year 1418. the year of his Maioroialtie, he builded both an Hospital for relief of the poor; and a free-school for the education of youth within this Town, endowing both the one and the other with competent yearly living (as the days then suffered) towards their sustentation and maintenance. But since his time the School was much amended by the liberality of one john Potkyn, which lived under the reign of king Henry the eighth, and now lately also in the reign of Queen Elizabeth of famous memory, through the honest travel of diverse Towne-inhabitants; not only the yearly stipend is much increased, and the former litigious possessions quietly established, but the Corporation also changed into the name of two Wardens, and four Assistants of the free-school of Queen Elizabeth in Sennocke. Seal. In this Church, Tho. Brenten Bishop of Rochester. upon a marble stone inlaid with brass, I found the portraiture of a Bishop: and these words only remaining: Credo quod Redemptor meus vivit. And these figures, 1389. Under which (as I gather by the date of the year of Grace) Thomas Brenton Bishop of Rochester, Godwin. Catalogue of Bis. lieth interred, who traveled into many places beyond Seas: and coming to Rome, preached in Latin before the Pope many learned Sermons, which he left behind him in writing. For which and other his rare parts, he was much admired, and became very famous. The Pope made him his penitentiary, and bestowed upon him this Bishopric of Rochester; he being before a Benedictine Monk of Norwich. He was Confessor unto king Ric. the second; and a singular Benefactor he was to the English Hospital at Rome. He died as before, Ann. 1389. Hic iacet Dominus de Bryene miles quondam Dominus de Kemsing et Sele qui obijt 13. Septemb. 1395. Sir Bruin knight. The family of the Bruins (which I take to be all one with this name) was a long time famous, Com'd. in Essex as well in Essex, as in this tract. The last I find of exemplary note, Stow. Annal. was one Thomas Bruine, high Sheriff of Kent, who with the Lord Scales and others, kept the Tower of London, for their Sovereign Lord king Henry the sixth, against the rebellious Earls, Ann. 1460. Reg. 38. Wrotham. De Strattone natus iacet hic Rogerus humatus, Reg. Stratton Parson. De Wrotham Rector sacre pagineque Professor. Credo quod redemptor meus vivit et ..... Orate pro anima johannis Burgoine filij johannis Burgoine de Impington in Com. Cantab. ... Cuius. These Burgoines were sometime Lords of Caxton in Cambridgeshire, Camd. in Camb by whom it came to the jermins. Orate pro anima Richardi jeames.: ... huic Ecclesie Benefac .... qui obiit 15. Sept. 1501. Rich. jeames a Blacksmith. Cuius. This man, say the Inhabitants, was a special Benefactor to this Church, a Tradesman and a Smith, as appears by the picture of a pair of Pincers upon his Monument. Marmoreo lapide Thomas Gawge subtumulatur, Tho. Gawge. Qui vero dum vixit residens Doctor Thelogie, Sistebat; etiam tum Cancellarius ille Prenobilis Ducisse fuit pariter Eboraci. Quem Deus evexit nuper ad agamatha regni, Octobris mensis X. bina dieque secunda. M. Domini quater hiis addito septuagena. james Peckham and Margaret his wife. Hic iacet jacobus Peckham Ar. et Margareta uxor eius filia Thome Burgoine de Impington in Com. Cant. Ar. qui ob. 28. Febr. 1500. et Margareta ob.— die— quorum. Reynold Peckham and joice his wife Of your charity pray for the sowls of Reynald Peckham the elder, Squire for the body of the most excellent Prince king Henry the eight, who decesed 27 Feb. 1525. and for the sowl of joice Colepeper his wife which decesed 20. March, 1523. Hic iacet Willelmus Peckham Ar. * Cupbearer. Will. Peckham and Katherine his wife. Cironomon Tho. Bourchier Episcopi Cant. et Cardinalis, qui obiit 28. junij 1491. et Katherina uxor que obiit 23. Aug. 1491. Quorum animabus. Tho Peckham and Dorothy his wife. Hic iacet Thomas Peckham et Dorothea qui ob .... die .... An. Dom ..... et Dorothea ob. 19 Decemb. 1512. quorum, etc. james Peckham and Agnes his wife. Of your .... of james Peckham Esquire, and Agnes his wife, the which james decesed 5. Aug. 1532. on whose soul and all Christian souls, jesus have mercy. Martin Peckhan and Margery his wife. Here are two tombs in the Churchyard, and near to the Church-door, the one of which (saith Francis Thin Lancaster Herald) was erected to the memory of Martin Peckham Esquire: the other to Margery Peckham his wife; by the marriage of which Margery ample revenues came to the family of the Peckhams', she being daughter and heir to Yaldham, Lord of the Manor of Yaldham. Glover Somerset Herald in his Collections saith, that john Peckham did hold the Manor of West-Peckham, in the first of Henry the third. But certain it is that john Peckham Archbishop of Canterbury, in the reign of Edward the first, was the first man that advanced his name to those great possessions, which his posterity enjoyed even till these our times. Chidingston. Sir Thomas Willoughby and Bridget his wife Orate pro animabus Thome Willughby militis, unius justiciar. domini Regis de Banco, filij Christoferi Willughby militis, ac etiam Domini Willughby in Com. Suffolk. et domine Brigitte uxoris Thome Willughby predicti, unius filiarum & heredum Roberti Read militis, ac primatis de communi loco justiciar. qui quidem Thomas obijt 28. die Sept. Ann. 1545. john Loft Priest. Pray for the soul of john Loft, Master of Arts, Priest for my Lord Read the .... of Aug... 1500. on whose sowl and all Christian sowls jesus have mercy, Amen. Io. Alphegh and Isabel his wife. Hic iacet johannes Alphegh .... Isabel filia .... qui quidem Iohannes obijt An. 1489. & predicta Isabella obijt 23. Sept. 1479. quorum anima●●● Thin Collect. This john Alphegh built Bore place here in Chidingston, which 〈◊〉 Robert Read enlarged, and after that it was enlarged by Sir Thomas Willoughby knight, and then by Thomas Willoughby now living, 1575. Among the Willoughbeiss (saith learned Clarentieux) one excelled all the rest, in the reign of Henry the fifth, Camd. in Lincol. Willoughby Earl of Vandosme. named Sir Robert Willoughbey, who for his martial prowess was created Earl of Vandosme in France; and from these by the mother's side descended, Peregrine Berti, Baron Willoughby of Eres by, a man for his generous mind and military valour, renowned both in France and the Low-countrieses. whose Robert Berti Lord Willoughby of Eresby, Earl of Lindsey, and Lord great Chamberlain of England. Orate pro anima johannis Wood Decretorum Baccalarij nuper Rectoris huius Ecclesie, Io. wood. ac Prebendarii de Hastings qui ob. 7. Maii 1487. Orate pro anima Edmundi Read filii Roberti Read militis, Edmund Read. ac unius justiciar. Domini Regis de Banco, qui quidem Edmundus obiit 10. junii 1501. Sir Robert Read built the North Chapel of this Church, S. Katherine's Chapel. Ann. 1516. in honorem Dei et Sancte Katherine: he was made chief justice 22. of Henry the seventh, and died about the tenth of Henry the eight. Itham or Igtham. Of your charity. .... of Sir Richard Clement knight, Sir Ric. Clement knight, and Anne his wife. and Anne his wife, daughter of Sir William Catesby of Northamptonshire knight, which Anne decesed 3. novemb. 1528. and the said Sir Richard decesed— day of— Ann. Dom.— on whose sowls. ... Of your cherite prey for the sowl of Richard Astall, Ric. Astall. Master of Art of Camb. and late Parson of Itame, and Chevening, and prebendary of Wingham. The which Richard decesed 21. Aug. 1546. on whose. Here is a Tomb of Marble which is supposed by most of the near Inhabitants, to be made for Sir Richard Hawte, Hawte: sometime owner and founder of the Mote, and Lieutenant of the Tower of London. Some say to Sir Nicholas, some one knight of that name, some another: for an ancient family they were of knight's degree, Glover. Somerset. and Lords of many fair Manors; all which (by the marriage of jane and Elizabeth, daughters and coheires of Sir William Hawte knight, by Mary his wife, the daughter of Sir Richard Guilfora knight) came to be the inheritance of Sir Thomas Wyatt, and Sir Tho. Culpepper: yet some more judicious say, that this Monument was erected for one Cawne, who was likewise owner of the Mote, who married with Morrant Lord of Morrants Court. Cobham. In this Church are many fair Monuments foully defaced, under which the Cobham's, and Brooks, Lords and Barons of this Town of Cobham, with many of their kindred, Allies and progeny lie interred; who for many descents did flourish in honourable reputation, even until these our times. Vousque passericy .... pries pur l'alme le curteis ..... johan de Cobham, joan Lady Cobham. avat a nom dieux luy fari verray. Pardon qe trespassa lendemayne de saint Mathy le passent oustre a demorer one lay, en l'an de Grace 1354. Icy gist Margery de Cobham iadis Femme a tresnoble chevalier ....... Margery Lady Cobham. Regni .... ordre .... que morust le IIII iour de Sept. l'an de Grace 1375. de .... dieu et mercy. To make this maimed inscription more perfectly to be understood, let me tell you that this Margery or Margaret (for I can hardly discern whether by the engravement) was the wife of that brave warrior Reynold Baron Cobham, Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, knight of the Garter, and Admiral of the Sea coasts from Thames mouth Westward; Lib 〈◊〉 in hill. Cot. who died of the second Pestilence, in theraigne of king Edward the third, An. Dom. 1361. Vous q par icy passer ..... Hen. de Cobham ..... qui morust ban de gra .... 1392. Henry Lord Cobham. This Henry de Cobham was son of the foresaid Reynold, who also was Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. Icy gist dame Margarete de Cobham iadis fille a noble Sir Count de Deuonshire Femme de Sir de Cobham de ceste place qe morust le secound iour du mois de August l'an de grace 1385. Margaret Lady Cobham. L'alme de .... eit mercy. Amen. This Margaret was the daughter of Hugh Courtney, the third of that Christian name, Earl of Devonshire. joan Lady Cobham. Dame jone de Cobham gist icy Dieu de salme aye mercy. Qui pur le alme priera Quarant iours de Pardon avera. Tho. Lord Cobham and Maud his wife. Vous .... par icy passer ... lalme Thome de Cobham pries qui trespassa la .... S. Thom ... le Apostre ... luy ottrye a demorier en companye le vostre en lan de grace 1367. Le haut Trinyte luy soit defender d'inferne abysm. Et Icy gist dame Maude de Cobham qe fust le Femme de Sir Thomas Cobham que dellya 9 iour de Auerillan de grace 13 .... 3. Ric. 2. john Lord Cobham. De terre fust fait et form Est in terre .... return Cobham founder de ceste place Le saint Trinyte mercy de mesme. This john Lord Cobham was the builder of Cowling Castle, and the founder of this College: Cobham College. valued at the suppression, at one hundred eight and twenty pounds, ten shillings nine pence, half penny, by the year. He was the last Lord Cobham of that surname; for he left but one only daughter, wife to Sir john de la Pole knight. And she likewise (howsoever she had many husbands) (of which number Sir john Oldcastle was one) had not any issue, Sir john Oldcastle knight Lord Cobham. but only by Sir Reygnold Braybroke, who died all young, excepting one daughter called joan; who married with Thomas Brook of Somersetshire, to whom she brought both her mother's inheritance and honour; which these Brooks did happily enjoy for the space of six descents, being ever employed in offices of State, and matters of high consequence. Yet always standing firm, both in the favour of the Prince, and his people, until the last of these Lords, stumbling upon a shallowpated Treason, which was laid in his way; fell down to the ground, together with his house, his inheritance, and all his additions of honour. But to return to the rest of the Epitaphs. joan Baronesse Cobham. Hic iacet Iohanna Domina de Cobham quondam uxor domini Reginaldi Braybroke militis que obiit in die Sancti Hilarii Episcopi Ann. Dom. 1433. Cuius anime propitietur altissimus. Hic iacet Dominus Reginaldus Braybroke miles, Sir Reignold Braybroke knight, Lord Cobham. ac maritus Domine johanne, Domine de Cobham, heredis Domini johannis de Cobham fundatoris istius Collegii: qui quidem Reginaldus obiit apud Midleborrow in Flandria, 20. die mens. Septemb. Ann. 1405. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Upon the same marble these words are engraven. Hic iacet Reginaldus filius eorum. Hic iacet Robertus filius eorum: Reignold and Robert Braybroke Which were his and her children that died in their infancy. This Reignold (by the honour of his marriage styled Lord Cobham) was the son of Gerard Braybroke, Lamb. p●ramb who was the son of Henry Braybroke, Lord Warden of the five Ports, in the reign of king Henry the third. Hic iacet Nicholaus Hawberk quondam maritus Domine johanne, Nicholas Hawberke Lord Cobham. Domine de Cobham, heredis Domini johannis de Cobham fundatoris istius Collegii, qui quidem Nicolaus obiit apud Castrum 9 die Octobris, Ann. Dom. 1407. Hic iacet johannes Broke miles' ac Baro Barony de Cobham ac domina Margareta uxor sua quondam silia nobilis viri Edovardi Nevil nuper Domini de Burgaveny, Io. Broke Lord Cobham, and Lady Margaret his wife. qui quidem Iohannes obiit .... die men's. Septemb. Ann. Dom. 1506. quorumanimabus. Amen. Orate pro anima Tho. Broke militis Domini de Cobham consanguinei et heredis Richardi Beauchampe militis, qui quidem Thomas cepit in uxorem Dorotheam, Tho. Lord Cobham, and his three wives. filiam Henrici Heydon militis; & habuerunt exitum inter eos, septem filios, & sex filias, & predicta Dorothea obiit .... et predictus Thomas cepit in uxorem Dorotheam Fowthewel viduam, que obiit sine exitu; & postea cepit in uxorem Elisabetham Harte & habuerunt nullum exitum inter eos. Qui quidem Thomas obiit 19 julii 1529. Ralph de Cobham de Kent Esquire Ralph Cobham. Qi morust le xx iour de janier L'an de Grace mil cccc gist icy Dieu des●alme eyt mercy. Hic iacet johannes Terrye quondam socius istius Collegii qui obiit 7. Id. julii, Io. Terrye. Ann. Dom. 1417. Hic iacet johannes Clavering quondam filius Rogeri Clavering, civis & pannarij de Civitate London. Orate pro animabus predicti johannis Clavering, Io Clavering: juliane & Alicie ux eius, & predicti Rogeri Clavering, & johanne ux. eius, patris & matris predicti johannis Clavering, fratrum & sororum suorum, et siliorum eorum, ac etiam Anne Westbye et Matildis matris eius, et progenitorum nostrorum, et johannis de Brendward, Thome Legge, et Simonis filij eius, et pro animabus omnium Benefactorum nostrorum, et omnium fidelium defunctorum quorum animabus propitietur Deus. Amen. Such was the politic devotion of religious houses in those days, thus publicly to remember, and pray for the souls of all their Benefactors: thereby to incite others to the like works of charity, by which they still increased their Founders first endowments. Shorne. Near to the high Altar of this Church, is a very fair Monument for Sir Henry de Cobham knight, Lord of Roundall, a Manor within this Parish; where now scarce the ruins appear, . to direct one where the house stood. He is buried crosselegged, with his coat-armes on his robe, about whose Tomb in an old Character thus much may be read. Icy gift Sir Henri de Cobeham Shevaler Signeour de Roundall. Dieu de sa ...... in bib. Cot. The Lieger book of Feversham makes mention of one Henry Lord Cobham, who lived in great honour in the reigns of Edward the first, and Edward the second: these are the words, but I think this is not the man which lies here entombed. Henry Lord Cobham prime justice of England. Stephen de Penchester, or Pe●shu●st Lord Warden. joan & Alice his daughters and heirs. joan manned to the said H. Lord Cobham. Alice to Philip de Columbars. Regnante Edwardo cius nominis primo etiamque secundo floruit Henricus Dominus de Cobham, primus totius Anglie justiciarius, nec non Dorentium Castrorum, Roucestrie ac Tunbridge Prefectus & quinque Portuum Gardianus, uxorem duxit Iohannam filiam & unam Heredum Domini Stephani de Pynchester militis, qui vero Stephanus prius Castri Dorensis gubernationem ante Cobhamum tenuit. Alicia vero natu minor Stephani de Pynchester filia, & una Heredum in virum accepit Dominum Philippum de Columbaris militem, ex qua duos suscepit filios, Stephanum & Thomam, qui sine herede Patrimonium omne à patre acceptum reliquit. Hiis testibus. Dom. Gualfrido Domino de Say, Ottone de Grandisono, Rogero de Hengham, Gulielmo de Cheynie, Gulielmo de Hour, Radulpho de Savage militibus. Thus have you partly seen the honours and honourable marriages, the height and downfall of an eminent and right ancient family: Of which no more until I come to Lingfield, and the Parish Church of Sterborrow in Surrey. Io. Smith and Margery his wife. Hic iacet johannes Smith, & Marioria uxor eius qui ob. 20. Feb. 1457. Another of one john Smith, qui ob. 18. Marcii 1427. Tho. Sharp. Hic iacet Thomas Sharp legis peritus qui ob. 20. die Aprilis, Ann. 9 H. 7. & Ann. Dom. 1493. Cuius. Of your charity pray for the soul of john Herueden, who died on Saint Nicholas day, Ann. 1527. who had one daughter, Elinor, married to Edmond Page of Shorne. Heigham. The Nunnery at Heigham. Stephen king of England erected here in this Town a Religious house, wherein he placed black veiled Nuns, the valuation and dedication whereof, I cannot learn. East-Malling. Robert Ereby joan and joan his wives. Hic iacet Robertus Ereby olim civis et Aurifaber de London, joanna & joanna uxores sui, qui quidem Robertus obiit 15. Aug. An. Dom. 1477. Tho. Ereby and ●sode his wife. Hic iacet Tho. Ereby filius Roberti Ereby & Isodia uxor eius qui ob. 1. Sept. 1478. Mepham. Simon de Mepham, Archbishop of Canterbury, who had both his name and nativity of this Town, built this Church for the use of the poor, Almeshouse. which William Courtney (one of his Successors) repaired fourscore years after, and annexed thereunto four new houses for the same end and purpose. Shorham. Orate pro bono statu Thome Buckland istius Capelle fundatoris, Tho. Buckland. & ..... uxoris. Codham. Here lieth buried Alyes waleys, Alice waleys. somtym wyff unto Waltyr waleys of this parish, and sister unto john Alegh of Adyngton in Surrey squire, justice of Quorum. Which Alyes deceased the second day of july. M. CCCCC.III. Who's sowl sweet jesus pardon. down. Hic iacet Richardus Down Armiger & Margeria consors eius: Ric down and Margery his wife. Quorum animabus propitietur Altissimus. Hic iacet johannes Bederenden quondam civis, Io. Bederenden. & Pannarius, & Camerarius London, qui obiit 27. Septemb. 1445. Hic iacent Thomas Petle & Isabel uxor eius. Tho. Petle and Isabella his wife. In a window. Quorum animabus: .... Orate pro animabus johannis Petle & Christiane uxoris eius: et johannis Petle, et Alicie, et Thome Philipot ac parentum meorum ...... Aynsford. Hic iacet johannes Donat generosus et Alicia uxor eius ille obiit .....: john Donat and Alice his wife. 1455. illa obiit .... S. Donate ora pro nobis. I never heard of such a Saint saving at S. Donats' Castle in Glamorganshire; the fair habitation of the ancient and notable family of the straddlings. Ici gis ..... la famme de la Roberg de Eckisford. Eckisford. This is enraven in the North Chapel of this Church, in a wondrous antique character. Snothland. Here in the Church porch lieth buried William Alexander, William Alexander. who gave a weekly stipend of bread to the poor for ever: and dyeth 1469. Here lieth john Pole, Io. Pole. son of Henry Pole of Hartington in the County of Derby, who deceased 1487. Here lieth .... Palmer of Otford Esquire ..... this Epitaph ensuing I have by relation of one of that surname. Palmers all our faders were Palm. I a Palmer lived here And travyld still, till worn with age, I ended this world's pilgrimage, On the blyst Ascension day In the cheerful month of May; A thousand with four hundred seven, And took my journey hense to Heaven. Northfleete. Hic. Da●● master of the jewel house. Hic in tumba requiescit corpus Richardi Davy Ar. et Margeria uxor eius, quondam cuslos jocalium Domini Regis Hen sexti obiit 15. Marcii 1491. Pray for the sowl of Maud Davy married Davy. Whos corpse here undyr do lie She was dawter of William Davy On whose soul jesus have mercy. I pray you all for cherite Say a Paternoster and an Aue. Hic iacet Alicia quondam uxor Willelmi Wangdesord, que obiit die Lune prox. post diem dominicam in ramis Palmarum. 1421. William Rikell and Katherine his wife. Hic sub pede anre alta●e iacent Willelmus Rikhill Ar. filius Willelmi Rikhill militis primogenitus, et Katherina uxor cius que obiit 27. Aug. 1433. qui quidem Willelmus obiit .... die .... 1400. quorum. Rikell the father was one of the king's justices, an Irishman borne, the vehement urger of accusations against Thomas of Woodstock, S●ow. Annal. Duke of Gloucester, and Thomas Arundel, Archbishop of Canterbury, Ann. Reg. Regis, Ric. 2.21. 1397. Sir Peter Lacie Priest. Hic iacet Dominus Petrus Lacie, quondam Rector istius Ecclesie, & prebend. Preb. de Swords in Ecclesia Cathedrali Dublin ...... 18. Octob. 1375 via vite mors. Hic iacet Willelmus Lie Rector de Northfleete, 9 jan. 1391. Tho. Brendon and joan his wife. Here lies Thomas Bredon and joan his wife ... 1511. Rich. Hunt and joan his wife. Here lieth Richard Hunt, late servant to my Lord of Canterbury, William Warham, and joan his wife: which Richard died ... 1518. and joan 1531. 〈◊〉 Hesilt, Baron of the Exchequer and Agnes his wife. Hic iacet Willelmus Hesilt unus Baronum de Scaccario Domini Regis, qui obiit 9 April 1425. et Agnes uxor eius, quorum, etc. Chalk. 〈◊〉 Martin & 〈◊〉 his wife. Hic iacet Willelmus Martin Ar. et Isabella uxor eius qui quidem Willelmus obiit 26. Maii Ann. 1416. This Martin was a good Benefactor to this Church, as appears in diverse places in the glass, as also in the structure. Here are two very ancient Monuments in the wall, but to whose memory they were made, I cannot learn. Swanescombe. S. Hildeferths. This Church in times past was much haunted by a mad company of Pilgrims, who came hither for Saint Hildeferths' help (a Bishop by conjecture of his picture, yet standing in the upper window of the South Isle) to whom such as were distracted ran for restitution of their wits. Which cure was performed by warmth, close keeping, and strict diet. A cure no more miraculous (saith Lambard) then is, at this day, the keepers of Bedlam. Pray for the soul of Nicholas Bonevant, Nicholas Bonevant and Agnes his wife. Reignold Thomas. and Agnes his wife: which Nicholas deceased 20. Octob. 1516. Hic iacet Reginaldus Thomas in Legibus Bacalareus Rector istius Ecclesie qui .... 1494. Stone. The whole Fabric of this Church is upholden in wondrous good repair; her inside is neatly polished, and the Monuments of the dead (which are ancient and many) very fair, and carefully preserved. Preyeth for the sowl in weigh of charity Of Richard Bontfant late Mercer of London. Ric. Bon●uant. For the Brethren and Sisters of this Fraternity, Owner of the plas called Castle of the Ston: Remembyr him that is laid under Ston. For his sowl, and all Christian to pray To the merciful jesus, a Pater noster anon, An Aue to his Mother, and make no deley. In March which deceased the nineteen day. In the yer of our Lord God who keep him fro pine A thousand fowr hundred thirty and nine. Hic iacet magister johannes Sorewell in Decretis honoratus, Io. Sorewell Priest. Rector istius Ecclesie, qui ob. penult. Decemb. 1439. Hic iacet Dominus johannes Lombard quondam Rector istius Ecclesie, Sir john Lombard Priest. qui obijt 12. Maij 1408. Upon a cross of brass laid in the marble, are curiously engraven these words: Credo quod redemptor meus vivit. And upon the basis of the same Cross these obsolete Latin rhymes. Es test is Christ quod non iacet hic lapis iste Corpus ut ornetur sed Spiritus ut memoretur, Him tu qui transis, magnus, medius, puer an sis Pro me funde preces quia sic mihi fit veny spes. Hic iacet Matilda nuper uxer Willelmi Laken Seruiens ad Legem qui ob. 2. die Decemb. 1408. & iuxta eam ex parte australi Iohanna filia sepelitur que obijt 3. die Octob. anno supradicto. Maud Laken and joan her daughter. O merciful jesus. Sir Io. Dew Priest. Have mercy on the sowl of Sir john Dew. Here lie interred diverse of the Chapman's, who were sometime owners of Stone-castle. Hic Christi versus Payname iacet ecce Rogerus Pauperibus multum dedit hic pecunia cultum Roger Payname. ........ M. C. quater deca. In Maij vicena rapit hunc mors .... Will▪ Banknot & Anne his wife. Here lies William Banknot and Anne his wyff, Sweet jesus grant to them and us everlasting life. Pray you hertely for charity, Say a Pater Noster and an Aue. 1400. Sir Io. Wilshyre knight, and Margaret his wife. Here lieth the bodies of Sir john Wilshyre knight, and of Dame Margaret his wife. Which Sir john died 28. Decemb. 1526. And Margaret died ... of .... Stow. Annal. This knight is entombed in a fair Chapel of his own foundation; he was Controller of the Town and Marches of Calleis, Ann. 21. Hen. 7. 1506. He had only one daughter and heir, named Bridget, married to Sir Richard Wingfield. As I have it in these words out of the Visitation book of Huntingtonshire, by Nicholas Charles Lancaster Herald. Sir Ric Wingseeld knight of the Garter, & Bridget his wife. Sir Richard Wingfield knight of the Garter, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, and of the Bedchamber to King Henry the eight; by his wife Bridget, who was daughter and heir to Sir john Wilshyre knight; had Stone▪ house, or Stone-castle in Kent near Gravesend. To whom the king gave Kimboulton Castle; he was of the privy Council, and died Ambassador in Spain, and was buried at Toledo. Dartford. Hic iacet johannes Hornley Theologie Baccal.: Io Hornley. ▪ qui obijt. 1477. Si fterent Artes Hornley tacuisse johannem Non possent ista qui tumulatur humo. In septem fuerat liberalibus ille magister, Prudens, & castus, maximus atque fide. Doctrine sacre tunc Baccalareus ingens, Oxonie cunctis semper amandus erat. Consilio valuit, sermons pandere sacros Noverat, et doctos semper amare viros. Pauperibus largus fuerat, quos noverat aptos, In studijs patiens sobrius atque fuit. Moribus insignis cunctis virtute refulgens Pro tantis meritis spiritus astra petit. Katherine Burlton, and Richard her husband. O pitiful Creater concerning erthly sepulter, Of Katryn Burlton at x day within jun. Thousand IIII C. LXXXXVI yer Occurrent with Richard Burlton jantlman. Spows to the Katryn ..... Expired thousand ..... Throu the prayer of thes twein Shall he be savyd fro endlysse pein. The Priory of Dartford. King Edward the third founded here a goodly fair Monastery, about the year of his reign of England, the thirtieth, and of France the seventeenth: In which he placed women, religious Votaries, or white Nuns. Which Nunnery at the general dissolution, was found to be well worth three hundred and eighty pounds by year. This Priory (for so it was called by the Founder) was taken (as all the rest) into the hands of king Henry the eight: of which he made a fit dwelling place for himself, and his Successors, which remains to this day, howsoever somewhat ruinous. But will it please you peruse this Memorandum, not impertinent to this matter, in the visitation of Kent, and Sussex, made by Clarentieux Bevolt, the 21. year of king Henry the eight, Dame Elizabeth Cresner being Lady Prioress of Dartford at that time. Memorand. Burials in this Priory. that the said Lady doth witness, that king Edward the third was first Founder of the said place: and the second Founder was king Richard the second. And in the said place lieth buried the Lady Bridget, daughter to king Edward the fourth, a religious women in the same place. Also Dame joan, daughter to the Lord Scrope of Bolton, and Prioress of the same place: and Dame Margaret daughter of the Lord Beaumond, also sometime Prioress of the same place. And also there lieth daughter and wife to Sir Maurice Berkeley. This Lady Bridget here interred, The birth and death of Bridget Plantagine●. was the fourth daughter of Edward the fourth, by his wife Queen Elizabeth, she was borne at Eltham, here by, the tenth of November, 1480. She took the habit of Religion when she was young, and so spent her life in contemplation unto the day of her death: which happened about the year 1517. the eight of King Henry the eight. Crayford. Orate pro animabus Roberti Woodford, Rob. Woodford & joan his wife. & johanne uxoris eius, qui Robertus obijt .... 1489. Hic iacent Rogerus Apleton unus Auditorum serenissimorum Regum Hen. quinti & Hen. sexti; Ro. Apleton and Agnes his wife. ac Iohanne uxoris Hen. quarti; & Katherine uxoris Hen. sexti Reginarum Anglie, & Principatus totius Wallie, Ducatus Cornubie, & Com. Cestrie. qui ob .. 1400. & Agnes uxor eius Domina de Holbury que ob. 1437. Cum venerit dies Domini in miserecordia eius egrediemur. Hic iacet Henricus Elham unus Auditorum .... et Elisabetha uxor eius filia Rogeri Apleton ... ob. ... 1479. Hic iacet johannes Elham unus Auditorum. ... 1481. Vite probitas mortis despectio. Erith. In the upper end of the South Isle of this Church stands a fair tomb, with this Inscription; left at the first imperfect. Elisabeth second wife to George late Earl of Shrewsbury, Elisabeth Countess of Shrewsbury. Lord Steward to king Henry the seventh, and to king Henry the eight his Household, by whom she had issue, * john died in his infancy. john, and Lady Anne, wife to William Earl of Penbroke, Lord Steward of Queen Elizabeth's Household: which Lady Anne had been married before to M. Peter Compton Esquire, by whom she had issue Sir Henry Compton knight, now living. This Elizabeth Countess of Shrewsbury, was daughter and one of the heirs of Sir Richard Walden knight, Lord of the Town of Erith, whose body lieth here likewise entombed. Sir Ric. Walden knight, and Dame Margery his wife. Pray for the sowl of Sir Richard Walden knight, and Lady Margery his wife, which Sir Richard deceased 25 of March, 1536. And Margery deceased, the sixth of May, 1528. whose sowls god pardon. Richard Walde. Orate pro anima Richardi Walden Armig. & Elisabethe uxoris eius, que ob. 25. Octob. 1496. et Richardus obiit ... die ... men's men's Ann. miles. quorum animabus. Allin Atticor. Ellen Atticor gist icy Dieu de sa alme eit mercy. Sir Io. Stone Priest. Orate pro anima Domini johannis Stone quondam vicarij Ecclesie parochialis de Lesnes, alias Erith, qui ob. 13. April 1475. O vos omnes qui hic transitis, prome orate Precibus vestris, qui fratres estis meque iurate. john Crioll. Hic iacet Radulphus Criel Ar. qui obiit 6. Decemb. 1447. Cuius anime propitietur altissimus. Roger Sentcler. Hic iacet Rogerus Sentcler quondam seruiens Abbati et Conuentui de Lesnes, qui obiit primo die mensis januarij, 1425. Cuius anime. Lesnes Abbey. Matthew Paris. In the year of our Lord 1178. the third of the Ides of june, Richard Lucy a Counsellor of State, and chief justice of the Realm, began the foundation of an Abbey, Ric. de Lucy the founder. at Lesnes or Westwood, near unto this Town of E●●th The extent of whose yearly revenue (as it was prized by the Commissioners at the suppression) amounted to one hundred eighty six pounds and nine shillings. When this his goodly fabric was in all parts finished, he presently forsook and surrendered into the king's hands, R●g Heu●den. An. 1179. all both his offices and honours; And betook himself to the habit and profession of a Canon Regular in this house of his own foundation; where, within a short while after, even in the same year, to wit, the fourteenth of july, 1479. he exchanged his Conuentuall black cool, for a glorious bright heavenly crown. And here in the Choir of his Church he was sumptuously entombed, upon whose Monument this Epitaph was engraven. Ex vet. Mss. in ●o Cot. Rapitur in tenebras Richardus lux Luciorum justicie pacis dilector & urbis honorum Christ sibi requies tecum sit sede piorum. julia tunc orbi lux bis septena nitebat, Mille annos C. novem et septuaginta movebat. Now give me leave to go a little further with him and his heirs, as I find the words in the Collection of England's Protectors, by Francis Thin Lancaster Herald. Sir Richard Lucy knight, chief justice of England (saith he) was Protector of England in the twelfth year of the reign of king Henry the second, in the absence of the king, when he was in Normandy, and in the parts beyond the Seas. Which Lucy in the thirteenth year of the same King, did valiantly resist, and politicly drive back the Earl of Bolloigne, invading this kingdom. He built the Abbey of Leosnes or Westwood in the Parish of Erith in Kent (and not in Southfleet as some have written) in the year of Christ, 1178. and the Castle of Chipping Augre in Essex. He had issue Godfrey, Bishop of Winchester, and three daughters; who, after the death of Godfrey their brother, were his heirs▪ Maude the eldest daughter was married to Robert the first, called Fitzwater. Aueline the second daughter was married to Richard Rivers of Stanford Rivers in Essex. Rose the third daughter was married to Richard de Warren, the natural son of king john: as appeareth by a deed (belonging to myself, who had the Rectory of Leosnes) beginning thus. Rosa de Dover quondam uxor venerabilis viri Richardi filij Regis de Chillam. And king john by his Charter grants to another Rose her grandfathers lands, in these words: Rex reddidit Roesie de Doverita totam terram suam cum pertenenc. qua eam contingit de heredit. Richardi de Lucy avi sui tenend. sibi & hered. etc. Cart. 24. Reg. johannis, numero 37. in Archi. Turris London. The foresaid Godfrey de Lucy was consecrated Bishop of Winchester, Godfrey Lucy Bishop of Winchester. the first of November 1189. And died Ann. 1204 having governed that See fifteen years. He purchased of king Richard the first, the Manors of Wergrave, and Menes, which in times past had belonged to his Bishopric: he was a great Benefactor to this Religious house of Leosnes, founded by his father; wherein according to his will he was interred. To whose memory this Epitaph was engraven upon his Tomb. Lux mea lux Christi, si terre ventre quiesco Attamen in celo sanctorum luce lucesco. Presul de Winton. fueram quondam Cathedratus Multum resplendens, & alto sanguine natus. Nunc id sum quod eris puluis, rota non retinenda Voluitur, invigila prudens nec differ agenda. M. C. bis: quatuorque annos his insuper addas, Carnis vincla dies soluit secunda Decembris, Vos qui transitis ancillam poscite Christi, Sit Dominus mitis pulso purgamine tristi. Wolwich. Orate pro anima johannis Colin et Mathilde uxoris eius: Io. Colin and Maud his wife. qui Iohannes obiit 27. januar ..... & Mathilda 25. Octob. 1397. Hic tacet Dominus Will. Prene quondam Rector huius Ecclesie, Sir William Pr●ne Priest▪ viz. tempore Regis Edwardi quarti, et postea Rector Ecclesie de Lymming, qui fieri fecit istam Capellam et Campanile huius Ecclesie, et in vita sua multa alia bona .... ob. I. die Decemb. 1464. Willelmus Prene me fecit in honorem sancte Trinitatis▪ Inser. upon the great Bell. Eltham: Margery Roper. Pray for the sowl of Dame Margery Roper, late wyff of john Roper Suier, daughter and one of the heirs of john Tattersall Suier, who died 2. Februar. 1518 Roper a name of eminent respect in this County, honoured with the title of Baron Roper of Tenham, by our Sovereign Lord james, late King of England, given to john Lord Roper now living. john Morton. Pray for the sowl of john Morton, son and heir of Margaret Morton of Asheby de la Zouch, in the County of Leicester, late wife to Tho. Squier: who died 23. Aug. Tho. Pierle. Prior pur l'alme Thomas Pierle qi morust le primer iour de evil l'an de Grace, Mil. ccc.lxix ..... Here lieth john Pasley yeoman, Porter to king Henry the eighth, and Agnes his wife: which john died .... 1509. Hen. 8.1. West Peckham. Foundation of Peckham School. john Culpeper, one of the justices of the Common Pleas, in the reign of king Henry the fourth, founded here a preceptory or free-school, which he endowed with threescore and three pounds six shillings eight pence of yearly allowance. Bromley. Richard B●shop of Rochester. In the Church wall lieth the portraiture, as I learn by tradition, of Richard Wendover, Bishop of Rochester, and Parson of this Town. He was consecrated 1238. and died 1250. yet it is said, that his body was buried in Westminster by the king's special commandment, for that he was accounted a very holy and virtuous man: which I cannot much contradict. Walter Hench Parson. Icy gist Mestre Water de Henche, Qi fut Persone de Bromleghe. 1360. Lewsham. George Hatteliffe. Hic iacet Georgius Hatecliffe Ar. Thesaurarius Domini Regis in Hibernia, ac unus clericorum compoti Hospitii regis, obiit 1. Aug. 1514. The Priory of Lewsham. john Norbury founded a Priory in this Town of Lewsham, which he replenished with black Monks Aliens, belonging to the Abbey of Gaunt in Flanders, Prior's Aliens. and thereupon called Aliens, because they were Cells to some Monastery or other beyond the Seas. The first foundation of these houses I do not find; but in the reign of king Edward the third, they were increased to the number of one hundred and ten in England, besides them in Ireland, Their goods and lands consiscate. King Edward surnamed Longshanks did the like, An. Reg. ●3. upon the like occasion. Aquitane, and Normandy. The goods of all which Priories, the said king Ann. Reg. 12. (because of his wars with France) caused to be confiscated to his own use, letting out their houses to farm, with all their lands and tenements, for the space of three and twenty years. At the end of which Term (Peace being concluded between the two Nations) he restored to the Prior's Aliens their houses, lands, and tenements, Ann. Reg. 35. as by his patents may appear in effect as followeth. Edward by the grace of God King of England, Restitution of the 〈◊〉 Aliens. Lord of Ireland, and of Aquitaine, to all by these presents, etc. Although the Priory of Montacute in the County of Somerset (by reason of the wars between us and France) with all the lands, St●w Annal. tenements, fees, advowsons, together with the goods and cattles belonging to the same, hath been of late taken into our hands, and by us farmed and rent forth, as appeareth by diverse patents; Now therefore, since peace is betwixt us, and the noble Prince, our most dear brother the king of France, we, for the honour of God, and holy Church, restore to the said Prior, the Priory with all the lands, tenements, fees, advowsons, and whatsoever else belonging to the same, to hold the same in as free manner as they held it before. And withal, forgive and release all arrearages of Rents, which might be due unto us by reason of any former grants. In witness, etc. the sixth of February, the 35. year of our reign. The like letters of restitution all the rest of the houses of Aliens had through England; The final dissolu●●●● of Priories Aliens all which were clean suppressed, and utterly dissolved by king Henry the fifth, and their lands given by him and his son Henry the sixth, to Colleges of learned men, and to other Monasteries. Greenwich. This Parish Church is consecrated to the honour of Saint Aelphege, Aelphege Archbishop of Canterbury. sometime Archbishop of Canterbury, who suffered martyrdom muchwhat about the same place where it now standeth. Which Aelp●ege (bo●ne of great parentage, brought up in good learning, preferred first to the Bishopric of Winchester, then to this of Canterbury; a man admired for his strict manner of life, and holy exhortations, by both which he con●uerted many unto Christ) was cruelly put to death by the Danish Pagans, with many exquisite torments, in the year of our Lord, a thousand and twelve. Of which, in William Malmesbury, Camden, and the Catalogue of Bishops, you may read more at large. It was long before these bloody executioners would suffer his body to be committed to the earth, after the manner of Christian decency; yet at length that favour was obtained, and his body here first buried; from whence within a short time after, his relics were removed to Saint Paul's London, and from thence (at the commandment of king Knute) to Canterbury. He was canonised; and the 19 day of April allowed for celebration of his memory. Some write, Ca●graut in vita Elphege. Ditma●. Mar●●● 〈◊〉. that like another Stephen, he was stoned to death, that like him he prayed for his enemies; and that Turkill (general of those Danes) was converted to the faith, at the sight of his constant martyrdom. Here sometime stood an house of observant Friars, The Friary a● Greenwich. which came hither about the latter end of the reign of King Edward the fourth, at whose hands they obtained a chantry, with a little Chapel of the holy Cross, a place yet extant in the Town; Lamb. peramb. and king Henry the seventh builded for them an house adjoining to the Palace, which is there yet to be seen. Here in this Town was another Monastery of Friar's Minorites, The Priory. and Aliens, founded by King Edward the third, and the foresaid john Norbury: which as Lewsham did, belonged to the Abbot of Gaunt in Flaunders, until such time as King Henry the fifth (seizing into his hands (by occasion of war) all the lands of the Prior's Aliens) (as I have touched before) bestowed this, together with the Manor of Lewsham, and many other lands also, upon the Priory of Chartrehouse Monks of Shene, which he had then newly erected; to which it remained, until the time of the reign of king Henry the eight, who annexed it to the Crown. Depeford. Weever and joan his wi●e. Orate pro anima ..... Wever ..... Mercatoris et Maioris Stapul. ville Calcis qui ob ..... Februar. ... et pro .... joanne ux. eius, qui ob .... Martin the fifth Bishop of Rome, granted by this Bull to these Staple Merchants, in this Weevers Mayoralty at their earnest request, an itinerary or portable Altar, which they were to take with them to what place soever they traveled to make any time of abode; and withal gave them licence to elect a Priest, to say Mass, administer the Sacraments, to hear their confessions, to enjoin them penance, and to give them absolution as the cause should require. The form of which I hold it not much amiss here to set down, as I found it in an old Manuscript, without name or date, in the Earl of Exeter's Library. Martinus Episcopus Seruus Seruorum Dei, dilectis filijs Maiori et eius locum tenenti, The Pope's Bull to the Staple Merchants, for a portable Alt●r and a Mass-priest. ac Constabulario ceterisque Principalibus Societatis Mercatorum lanarum Stapule Anglie Salutem, et Apostolicam benedictionem. Sincere devotionis affectus quem ad nos et Romanam geritis Ecclesiam non indigne meretur, ut petitionibus vestris illis presertim quos ex devotionis feruore prodire conspicimus, quantum cum Deo possumus favorabiliter animamus. Hinc est quod nos vestris devotis supplicationibus inclinati, ut liceat vobis et posteris vestris Maiori et eius locum tenenti, ac Constabulario, nec non Principalibus societatis Mercatorum lanarum Stapule Anglie, ac vestrum ac eorundem posterorum cuilibet habere Altar portatile, cum debita reverentia et honore. Super quo in villa Calestie seu alibi etiam in transmarinis, seu cismarinis partibus, ubi pro tempore vos vel aliquem vestrum esse vel declinare, et huiusmodi Stapulum lanarum teneri contigerit, in locis ad hoc congru●ntibus et honestis positis; per proprium vel alium Sacerdotem ydoneum Missas et alia divina officia, sine iuris alieni preiudicio, in vestra et ipsorum ac aliorum Mercatorum dicte Societatis ibidem pro tempore presentium: Nec non vestrorum et eorundem Posterorum ac Mercatorum familiarium presentia facere celebrari vobis et predictis posteris tenore presentium indulgemus. Nulli ergo omnino homini liceat hanc paginam nostre concessionis infringere, vel ei ausu temerario contraire. Si quis autem hoc attemptare presumpserit, indignationem omnipotentis Dei, et beatorum Petri et Pauli Apostolorum eius se noverit incursurum. Dat. Mant. 3. Non. novemb. Pontificatus nostri, Ann. primo. By another Bull dated the same year, and his Apostolical authority, he gives them free election of their Confessor the Priest. Their Priest & Confessor. The words are; Aliquem ydoneum et discretum presbyterum eligere confessorem indulgemus, qui quotiens vobis fuerit oportunum confessionibus vestris diligenter auditis, pro commissis debitam vobis absolutionem impendat et iniungat penitentiam salutarem; nisi forsan talia fuerint, etc. propter que sedes Apostolica, etc. Nulli ergo omnino hominum, etc. Dat. etc. In English. We favourably yield to your devout and pious supplications, and we give you leave to choose a sufficient and discreet Priest for your Confessor; who so often, as to you it shall be thought convenient, your confessions being attentively heard, may give to each of you due absolution for your delinquencies committed, And appoint you saving and comfortable penance: unless the offences be of that nature, for which the Apostolical chair is to be sought to for remission. Therefore let it not be lawful for any man, in any wise, to infringe, or in a kind of foolhardiness rashly to contradict this Cartulary of our Concession: which indeed if any one presume to attempt, let him know for certain, that he shall incur the indignation of Almighty God, and of his blessed Apostles Peter and Paul. Given, etc. Then follows a form of Absolution, made in the Apostolical Consistory with plenary Indulgence to be pronounced by the Priest, to any one of these Merchants whensoever they shall be dangerously sick, in these words, Ego authoritate Dei omnipotentis & beatorum Petri et Pauli Apostolorum eius, The form of an Absolution. et Domini nostri Martini Pape Quinti mihi in hac parte specialiter commissa, secundum quod potestas mihi tradita se extendit, et quantum debeo et possum si ista vice moriaris te absolvo ab omnibus penis Purgatorii, que tibi in Purgatorio debentur propter culpas et offensas quas contra Deum commisisti; et te restituo illi innocentie in qua eras tempore quo baptizatus fuisti. In nomine Patris, et Filii, et Spiritus sancti. Amen. I by the authority of Almighty God, and of his blessed Apostles Peter and Paul, and of our Lord and Master Martin the fifth Pope, to me especially committed in this behalf, according, and in so much as the power to me given will extend itself, and how much of duty I owe, and how much I may or can; I absolve thee from all the pains of Purgatory which are due to be inflicted upon thee in Purgatory, for those sins and offences which thou hast committed against God; and I restore thee to that innocence in which thou livedst, the same day, when thou hadst newly received Baptism. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Ghost. Amen. A word or two of these two words Merchant Staple, or Staple Merchant. He is properly called a Merchant, qui mare traijcit, The definition of a Merchant who passeth over the Seas, et merces inde avehit, and from thence transports merchandise or wares into his own warehouse; either bought for ready money, or had in exchange for other commodities which he brings with him out of his own Country. The diligence and industry of these Merchants is accuratly expressed by Horace, Epist. lib. 1. Ep. 1. Impiger extremos curret Mercator ad Indos Per mare pauperiem fugiens, per saxa, per ignes. The ready Merchant runs to th'utmost Ind with speed. By Sea, by rocks, by fire, to shun outrageous need. There are a company of notable Skanderouns which greatly desire to be styled Merchants, and these are such as run from house to house, from Market to Market, What Pedlars are. such as haunt Fairs and all public meetings; with packs and Fardels upon their backs, filled with counterfeit and adulterate wares, with which they cheat, deceive, and cousin the poor countrypeople: and these are called Pedlars, Quod pedes iter conficiunt: because they go on foot. Stapula inquit (Lud. Guiccia, est locus publicus quo principis auctoritate et privilegio, Staple whar. lanae, vina, coria, frumenta, aliaeque merces exotica vendendi causa conuchuntur. Staple is a public place (saith Lud. Guiccia) to which by the Prince his authority and privilege, wool, wine, Hides of beasts, corn or grain, and other exotic or foreign merchandise are transferred, carried, or conveyed there to be sold, or set to sale. Or, Staple signifieth this or that Town or City, whither the Merchants of England, by common order or commandment, did carry their wools, wool-fells, clothes, lead, and Tin, and such like commodities of our Land, for the utterance of them by the great. The word (saith Mins. let. 5.) may probably be taken two ways, one from Stapel, which in the Saxon or old English language, signifieth the stay or hold of any thing. Or from the French word Estape, id est, forum Vinarium: because to those places, whither our English Merchants brought their commodities, the French would also meet them with theirs, which most of all consisteth in wines. Now, howsoever we most commonly find the Staple to be kept, and thereupon, as in this place, the Merchants thereof were styled, Mercatores Stapulae villae Calistiae, yet you may read of many other places appointed for the Staple in the Statutes of the Land, according as the Prince by his counsel thought good to alter them from the second year of Edward the third, cap 9 to the fifth of Edward the sixth. Officers belonging to these Staples, were Majors, Constables, Manipernors, correctors, Porters, packers, winders, workers, and other labourers of wools. The Fees of the Majors and Constables of the Staples in England, levied out of 4. d. a Sack of wool, coming to every Staple, were as followeth. The Mayor of the Staple of Westminster had yearly, one hundred pounds, and every of the Constables there ten marks. The Majors of the Staples of York, Kingston upon Hull, Norwich, and Winchester, every of them twenty pounds, and every of the Constables of the same places one hundred shillings. The Majors of Newcastle upon Tine, Chichester, and of Exeter, ten pounds; and every of the Constables of those places five marks. And if any of the Majors and Constables above named, refused the Office, he was to pay to the company as much as his Fee should amount to. Of all which you may read the Statute, Ann. 27. Ed. 3. The Mayor and Constables of the Staple had power to record Recognizances of debt taken before them, by virtue of a Statute, made the tenth of Henry the sixth. Chetham. And here give me leave (courteous Reader) to turn back to this Church situate near Rochester, only to set down a strange burial in this Churchyard, thus related by Lambard in his perambulation of Kent. Although (saith he) I have not hitherto, at any time, read any memorable thing recorded in History, touching Chetham itself, yet, for so much as I have often heard (and that constantly reported) a Popish illusion done at that place; and for that also it is as profitable to the keeping under of feigned and superstitious religion, to renew to mind the Priestly practices of old time (which are declining to oblivion) as it is pleasant to retain in memory the monuments and Antiquities of whatsoever of other kind: I think it not amiss, to commit faithfully to writing, what I have received credibly by hearing, concerning the Idols, sometime known by the names of our Lady, and the Rood of Chetham and Gillingham. It happened (say they) that the dead corpse of a man (lost through shipwreck belike) was cast on land in the Parish of Chetham, & being there taken up, was by some charitable persons committed to honest burial within their Churchyard: which thing was no sooner done, but our Lady of Chetham finding herself offended therewith, arose by night, and went in person to the house of the Parish-Clerk (which then was in the street, a good distance from the Church) and making a noise at his window, awaked him. This man at the first (as commonly it fareth with men disturbed in their rest) demanded, somewhat roughly, who was there: But when he understood by her own answer, that it was the Lady of Chetham, he changed his note, and most mildly asked the cause of her coming. She told him, that there was lately buried near to the place where she was honoured, a sinful person, which so offended her eye with his ghastly grinning, that, unless he were removed, she could not, but (to the great grief of good people) withdraw herself from that place, and cease her wont miraculous working in that place amongst them. And therefore she willed him to go with her, to the end that (by his help) she might take him up and cast him again into the River. The Clerk obeyed, arose and waited on her toward the Church: but the good Lady (not wont to walk) waxed weary of the labour, and therefore was enforced, for very want of breath, to sit down in a bush by the way, and there to rest her. And this place (forsooth) as also the whole tract of their journey (remaining ever after a green path) the Towne-dwellers were wont to show. Now after a while, they go forward again, and coming to the Churchyard, digged up the body, and conveyed it to the waters side, where it was first found. This done, our Lady shrank again into her Shrine, and the Clerk packed home to patch up his broken sleep, but the corpse now eftsoons floated up and down the River, as it did before. Which thing being at length espied by them of Gillingham, it was once more taken up and buried in their Churchyard. But see what followed upon it, not only the Rood of Gillingham (say they) that a while before was busy in bestowing miracles, was now deprived of all that his former virtue: but also the very earth and place, where this carcase was laid, did continually for ever after settle and sink downward. This tale received by tradition (saith my foresaid Author) from the Elders, was long since both commonly reported, and faithfully credited of the vulgar sort, which although haply you shall not at this day learn at every man's mouth (the Image being now many years sithence defaced) yet many of the aged number remember it well, and in the time of darkness, Haec erat in toto notissima fabula mundo. Otford. Burials at Otford. The fields about this Village are filled with the dead bodies of many brave Soldiers, here slain in two famous set battles: whereof the one happened amongst the Saxons themselves, contending for glory and supreme Sovereignty. The other between the Danes and Saxons, striving for lands, lives, and liberty. In the first Offa the king of Mercia (having already joined to his Dominion the most part of Westsex, and Northumberland, and seeking to have added Kent also) prevailed against the Inhabitants of this country, not without great slaughter of his own subjects. Alrick the king of Kent was here slain by the hands of Offa himself. Whose overthrow was the less dishonourable, for that he had the courage to withstand in single opposition, Alrick king of Kent. so puissant and impugnable an enemy. This Alrick was the last Kentish king that held the Sceptre in a lineal succession; the rest that followed, both got and enjoyed it by tyranny and usurpation. He is said to have reigned 34. years; and to have been thus vanquished in the year of Grace, 793. The place of his burial, whether here with his discomfited soldiers, or at Canterbury with his royal Ancestors, is to me uncertain. In the second battle, Edmund the Monarch of the Englishmen (surnamed for his great strength Ironside) obtained against Canutus the Dane, a most honourable victory, committing upon the Danes such slaughter, and bloody havoc, that if they had not better trusted to their heels then to their hands (flying toward the Isle of Shepey) he had that day made an end of the whole Danish army: and by all likelihood the wars had ceased betwixt those two Nations for ever. In this battle Canute lost four thousand and five hundred men; and king Edmund only six hundred. It was fought in the year, 1016. Bartilmew the Saint at Otf●rd and his offering. One Bartilmew (saith Lambard) a Saint, was holden in great veneration at this Town of Otford. His feast day was kept solemnly here, both with a fair and good fare, ever upon Saint Bartholomewes' day: he was much frequented (by the Parishioners and neighbours about) for a most rare and singular property that he professed. For the manner was, that if any woman (conceived with child) desired to bring forth a male, she should offer to Saint Bartilmew a cocke-chicken: and if her wish were to be delivered of a female, she should then present him with a Hen. This Saint questionless was a good Purveyor of Poultry for the Parson of the Town. Saint Thomas Becket likewise was holden in great esteem and worship at this Town; for it was said of the Inhabitants long since, and may be as yet (perhaps) by some of them believed, that while Thomas Becket lay at the old House here at Otford (which of long time belonged to the Archbishops of Canterbury, A part of Saint Tho Beckets' 〈◊〉. and whereof some part is as yet remaining) and say that it wanted a fit spring to water it: that he strake his staff into the dry ground (in a place thereof at this day called Saint Thomas Well) and that immediately water appeared; the which running plentifully serveth the Offices of the new House at this present time. They say also that as he walked on a time in the old Park (busy at his prayers) that he was much hindered in his devotion, by the sweet note and melody of a Nightingale, that sang in a Bush besides him, and that therefore (in the might of his holiness) he enjoined that from thenceforth no bird of that kind should be so bold as to sing thereabouts. Some men report likewise, that for as much as a Smith (then dwelling in the Town) had pricked his horse in the shooting; he enacted by like authority, that after that time no Smith should thrive within the Parish. But I exspatiate too far, and desire a favourable construction. Not far from Otford, Burials in Holmes Dal● in the same valley, called Holmes Dale (that is to say, the Dale between the woody hills) many expert worthy Commanders, and valiant common soldiers lie interred: For here the people of Kent being encouraged by the prosperous success of Edward their king (the son of Aelfred, and commonly surnamed the Elder) assembled themselves, and gave to the Danes, that had many years before afflicted them, a most sharp and fierce encounter, in the which after long fight they prevailed, and the Danes were overthrown and vanquished, in the year of Grace, 904. This victory (saith Lambard) and the like event in another battle given to the Danes at Otford, which also stands in the same valley, begat, as I guess, the common byword, used amongst the inhabitants of this vale even till this present day, in which they vaunt after this manner. The Vale of Holmesdale, Never won, ne never shall. These and many other victories achieved by the valour of these Kentish Inhabitants, gives me occasion to speak somewhat in general of this flourishing country; and first I will begin with a late writer. To Canterbury then as kindly he resorts, His famous country thus he gloriously reports. O noble Kent, M. Drayton. Polyol. Song 18. quoth he, this praise doth thee belong, The hardest to be controlled, impatientest of wrong. Who, when the Norman first with pride and horror swayed, Threw'st off the servile yoke upon the English laid; And with a high resolve, most bravely didst restore, That liberty so long enjoyed by thee before. Not suffering foreign Laws should thy free customs bind, Then only showd'st thyself of th'ancient Saxon kind. Of all the English Shires be thou surnamd the free, And foremost ever placed, when they shall reckoned be. And let this Town, which chief of thy rich country is, Of all the British Sees be still Metropolis. Of their throwing off the Norman yoke, his learned Illustrator Selden thus speaks. To explain it, saith he, I thus English you a fragment of an old Monk: When the Norman Conqueror had the day, he came to Dover Castle, that he might with the same subdue Kent also; wherefore Stigand, Archbishop, and Egelsin Abbot, as the chief of the Shire; observing that now whereas heretofore no Villeins' (the Latin is, Nullus fuerat seruus, and applying it to our Law phrase I translate it) had been in England, they should be now all in bondage to the Normans, they assembled all the County, and showed the eminent dangers, the insolence of the Normans, and the hard condition of villainage: they resolving all rather to die then lose their freedom, purpose to encounter with the Duke for their country's liberties. Their Captains are the Archbishop and the Abbot. Upon an appointed day they meet all at Swanescombe, and harbouring themselves in the woods, with Boughs in every man's hand, they encompass his way. The next day, the Duke coming by Swanescombe, seemed to see with amazement, as it were a wood approaching towards him; the Kentish men at the sound of a Trumpet take themselves to Arms, when presently the Archbishop and Abbot were sent to the Duke, and saluted him with these words: Behold, Sir Duke, the Kentish come to meet you, willing to receive you as their Liege Lord, upon that condition, that they may for e●er enjoy their ancient Liberties and Laws used among their Ancestors; otherwise, presently offering war; being ready rather to die, then undergo a voke of bondage, and lose their ancient Laws▪ The Norman in this narrow pinch, not so willingly, as wisely, granted the desire: and hostages given on both sides, the Kentishmen direct the Normans to Rochester, and deliver them the County and the Castle of Dover. Io. Sari●●●r. de Nugis Curial. li. 6 ca 18. Again for this honour of the Kentish in having the foremost place in every battle, he delivers thus much out of an old Author, who writ in Latin about the time of Henry the second. Which by him is likewise thus taught to speak English What performance king Cnut did among the Danes, and Norwegians by English valour, is apparent in that until this day, the Kentish men for their singular virtue then shown, have prerogative always to be in the Vanguard: as Wiltshire, Devonshire, and Cornwall in the Rear. Camd. in Kent. And further for the prowess of the Kentish men, will it please you read a piece out of Camden, the like in effect as before. The same commendation of civility and courtesy (saith he) which Caesar in old time gave the Inhabitants of Kent, is yet of right due unto them: that I may not speak of their warlike prowess, whereas a certain Monk hath written; How the Kentishmen so far excelled, that when our armies are ready to join battle, they of all Englishmen, are worthily placed in the front, as being reputed the most valiant and resolute soldiers. Which john of Salisbury verifieth also in his Polycraticon. For good desert (saith he) of that notable valour, which Kent showed so pvissantly, and patiently against the Danes, it retaineth still unto these days, in all battles, the honour of the first and forward, yea and of the first conflict with the enemy. In praise of whom William of Malmesbury hath likewise written thus. The country people and Towne-dwellers of Kent, above all Englishmen retain still the resent of their ancient worthiness. And as they are more forward, and readier to give honour and entertainment to others, so they are more slow to take revenge upon others. Lambard in his perambulation speaking of the Estate of Kent, saith, The people of this country consisteth chiefly (as in other countries also) of the Gentry and the Yeomanrie, of which the first be, for the most part, Governors, and the other altogether governed: whose possessions also were at the first distinguished, by the names of Knight's fee, and Gavelkinde: that former being proper to the warrior, and this latter to the husbandman. But these tenors long since have been so indifferently mixed and confounded in the hands of each sort, that there is not now any note of difference to be gathered by them. The revenues of the Gentry are greater here than any where else, The Gentry of Kent. which thing groweth not so much by the quantity of their possession, or by the fertility of their soil, as by the benefit of the situation of the country itself. Which hath all that good neighbourhood, that Marc. Cato, and other old Authors in husbandry, require in a well placed grange, that is to say, the Sea, the River, a populous City, and a well traded highway, by the commodities whereof, the superfluous fruits of the ground be dear sold, and consequently the land may yield a greater rent. These Gentlemen be all (for the most part) acquainted with good letters, and especially trained in the knowledge of the Laws: They use to manure some large portion of their territories, as well for the maintenance of their families, as also for their better increase in wealth. So that they be well employed, both in the public service, and in their own particular, and do use hawking, hunting, and other disports, rather for their recreation, then for an occupation or pastime. The Yeomanrie or common people (for so they be called of the Saxon word gemen, The Yeomanry of Kent. which signifieth common) is no where more free and jolly then in this Shire: for besides that they themselves say in a claim (made by them in the time of king Edward the first) that the Commonalty of Kent was never vanquished by the Conqueror, but yielded itself by composition: And besides Geruasius Dorobernens. (or Geruis a Monk in Canterbury, who flourished in the reign of king Henry the first) affirmeth that the forward in all battles belongeth to them (by a certain pre-eminence) in right of their manhood. And it is agreed by all men, that there were never any bondmen (or villains as the law calleth them) in Kent. Neither be they here so much bounden to the Gentry by Copyhold, or customary tenors, as the Inhabitants of the western Countries of the Realm be, nor at all endangered by the feeble hold of Tenant Right, (which is but a descent of a tenancy at will) as the Common people in the Northern parts be: for Copyhold tenure is rare in Kent, and Tenant Right not heard of at all. But in place of these, the custom of Gavelkinde, (that is, Give all Kin) prevailing every where, in manner every man is a Freeholder, and hath some part of his own to live upon. And in this their estate, they please themselves, and joy exceedingly; in so much, as a man may find sundry Yeomen (although otherwise for wealth comparable with many of the gentile sort) that will not yet for all that change their condition, nor desire to be apparelled with the titles of Gentry. Neither is this any cause of disdain, or of alienation of the good minds of the one sort from the other. For no where else in all this Realm, is the common people more willingly governed. To be short, they be most commonly civil, just, and bountiful: so that the estate of the old Franklyns and Yeomen of England, either yet liveth in Kent, or else it is quite dead and departed out of the Realm for altogether. Thus far in effect out of Lambard. Briefly, saith Selden, it had the first English King; in it was the first Christianity among the English, and Canterbury then honoured with the Metropolitique See: all which give note of Honourable Prerogative. But I will conclude this commendation of Kent with these verses following, taken out of the foresaid Author of Polyolbion, in the same Song. When as the pliant Muse, strait turning her about, And coming to the Land as Medway goeth out, Saluting the dear soil, O famous Kent, quoth she, What country hath this Isle that can compare with thee, Which hast within thyself as much as thou canst wish? Thy coneys, Venison, Fruit, thy sorts of Fowl and Fish: And what with strength comports, thy hay, thy corn, thy wood: Nor any thing doth want, that any where is good. Now here, before I take my leave of this little See of Rochester, it shall not seem impertinent (I hope) to show, The conclusion of this Diocese. with what great courage and happiness this Church hath ever upholden her rights and privileges, not only against the Monks of Canterbury (which laboured much to bring it under) but also against the See itself of the Archbishops. Lamb. For example, in the reign of king Henry the third, and after the death of Benedict (the Bishop of Rochester) the Monks made choice of one Henry Sanford (that great wise Clerk, which preached at Sittingbourne, that such a day the souls of king Richard the first, Godwin. Stephen Langton, Archbishop of Canterbury, and another Priest, were delivered out of Purgatory, and no more souls that day, but only they three, as God had revealed it unto him three several times) whereof when the Monks of Christ-Church had intelligence, they resisted the election, challenging that the Pastoral staff or Crosyer of Rochester ought of very right to be brought to their house, after the decease of the Bishop, and that the election ought to be made in their Chapter. The Monks of Rochester maintained their own choice, and so the matter waxing warm between them, it was at the length referred to the determination of the Archbishop: he again posted it over to certain Delegates, who hearing the parties, and weighing the proofs, gave sentence with the Monks of Rochester, and yet lost (as they thought) good love and amity among them. But (as the Poet saith) Male sarta gratia, nequicquam coit, sed rescinditur: Favour that is evil peeced, will not join close, but falleth asunder. And therefore this their opinion failed them, and their cure proved but to be patched: for soon after, the sore broke out anew, and the Canterbury Monks revived their displeasure with such a heat, that Hubert of Burgh, Earl of Kent, and chief justice of England, was driven to come into the Chapter house and cool it, and to work a second reconciliation between them. Neither for all that (as it may seem) was that flame quite extinguished. For not long after, viz. Ann. 1238. the Monks of Christ-Church seeing that they themselves could not prevail, entitled their Archbishop Edmund, with whom also the Rochester Monks waged law at Rome before the holy Father (as touching the election of Richard Wendeover, whom they would have had Bishop) by the space of three whole years together: and at the length, either through the equity of the cause, or the weight of their purse (saith my Author) overthrew him, Lamb. upon Saint Cuthberts' day, in joy whereof, they returned home with all haste, and enacted in their Chapter house, that from thenceforth, for ever, Saint Cuthberts' feast (as a Trophy of their victory) should be holden double, both in their Church and Kitchin. And not thus only, but otherwise also, hath the See at Rochester well holden her own: for during the whole succession of fourscore Bishops and one (as I have said before) which in right line have followed justus, she hath continually maintained her chair at this one place: whereas in most parts of the Realm besides, the Sees of the Bishops have suffered sundry translations, by reason that in the conquerors time, order was taken, that such Bishops, as before had their Churches in country Towns and Villages, should forthwith remove, and from thenceforth remain in walled Towns and Cities: which ordinance could not by any means touch Rochester, that was a walled City long time before king William's government. Here endeth the Diocese of Rochester. ANCIENT FUNERAL MONUMENTS WITHIN THE Diocese of LONDON. AS before I have said somewhat of the Cities of Canterbury and Rochester; so give me leave to speak a little of this great City of London, collected out of as well ancient as modern writers. And first I will borrow a few lines from john johnston, before remembered, sometimes Professor of Divinity in the University of S. Andrew's in Scotland: who in a grave note and serious stile compiled certain Latin verses in praise of this our Metropolis, Camd. Midlesex or sovereign City of this Island. Which I find to be translated by Philemon Holland, thus. This City well Augusta called, to which (a truth to say) Air, Land, Sea, and all Elements, show favour every way, The weather no where milder is, the ground most rich to see, Doth yield all fruits of fertile soil, that never spent will be: And Ocean, that with Tams stream his flowing tide doth blend Conueyes to it commodities, all that the world can send. The noble seat of Kings it is, for port and royalty, Of all the Realm the fence, the heart, the life, and lightsome ●y, The people ancient, valorous, expert in chivalry, Enriched with all sorts and means of Art and Mystery. Take heedful view of every thing, and then say thus in brief, This either is a world itself, or of the world the chief. Sir Robert Dallington knight, in his view of France; comparing the City of Paris with London, saith, That Paris is the greater, the fairer built, and the better situate: London is the richer, the more populous, the more ancient, which is an honour as well to great Cities, as to great families. And more ancient it is then any true Record beareth witness, saith Speed. Fabuled from Brute Troynovant, from Lud Ludstone; but by more credible writers; Tacitus, Ptolemy, and Antonine, Londinium; by Amianus Marcellinus for her successive prosperity, Augusta, the greatest title that can be given to any. It was the first built City questionless of all in the kingdom. Of which my old Rhymer Robert of Gloucester. Ye first lords and masters that in yis land were And ye chyff towns furst yey le●e arer. London and * York. Euerwyk, Lyncolne, and Leycestre, Colchestre, and Canterbery, Bristo●, and Wercestre. And many * Other. oyer towns more in Engelond and in Walis. This City, Speed. Midlesex. in respect of all other Cities of this Island, doth show as the Cedars among other trees, being the seat of the British kings, the Chamber of the English, the model of the land, and the Mart of the world: for thither are brought the silk of Asia, the spices from Africa, the Balms from Grecia, and the riches of both the Indies East and West. No city standing so long in fame, nor any for divine and politic government may with her be compared. It would ask, In Midlesex. saith Camd. a long time to discourse, particularly, of the good Laws and orders, of the laudable government, of the port and dignity of the Mayor and Aldermen, of their forward service and loyalty to their Prince, of the Citizen's courtesy, the fair building and costly furniture, the breed of excellent and choice wits, their gardens in the suburbs full of dainty Arbours, and banqueting rooms, stored also with strange herbs from foreign countries, of the multitude, strength, and furniture of their ships, the incredible store of all sorts of merchandise; and of the superabundance of all things which belong to the furniture or necessity of man's life. According as Hadrianus junius writes in his Philippeis, thus turned into English. Thick built with houses London is, with riches stuffed full, Proud (if we may so say) of men that therein live and dwell, Where in most plenteous wise abound all things that tongue can tell. Will. Warner writing of the foundation and Founder of this renowned City, gives it the like attributes. Now, Albion's England Chap. 14. if the Conqueror, this Isle had Brutaine unto name, And with his trojans Brute began manurage of the same. For razed Troy to rear a Troy, fit place he searched then, And views the mounting Northern parts: These fit (quoth he) for men, That trust as much to flight as fight: our bulwarks are our breasts, The next Arrivals here, perchance, will gladlier build their nests: A Troyans' courage is to him a Fortress of defence: And leaving so where Scots be now, he southward maketh thence: Whereas the earth more plenty gave, and air more temperature, And nothing wanted that by wealth or pleasure might allure. And more, the Lady Flood of Floods, the River Thamis, it Did seem to Brute against the foe, and with himself to fit. Upon whose fruitful banks therefore, whose bounds are chiefly said, The wantlesse Counties Essex, Kent, Surrey, and wealthy Glayde Of Hartfordshire, for City's store participating aid, Did Brute build up his Troy-novant, in closing it with wall. Which Lud did after beautify, and Luds-towne it did call, That now is London evermore to rightful Princes true, Yea Prince and people still to it, as to their store house drew, For plenty and for populous, the like we no where view. Howbeit many neighbour-Townes as much ere now could say; But place for people, people, place, and all for sin decay. But of this matter many have spoken much, and it is needless for me to say any more, especially considering that I shall have occasion to say somewhat hereafter upon the said subject, when I come to the burial of king Brutus. In the mean time I will conclude with a Rhyme Dogerell in commendation of London, as the Author himself calls it, who was Robert Fabian (Alderman and Sheriff of this honourable City, in the ninth year of king Henry the seventh) which you may read in the Prologue to the second volume of his Chronicle of England and France. Now would I fain, In words plain, Some Honour sayne, And bring to mind: Of that ancient city, That so goodly is to see, And full true ever hath be And also full kind. To Prince and king That hath borne just ruling Sin the fyrste winning Of this Island by Brute. So that in great honour By passing of many a shower, It hath ever borne the flower, And laudable brute. Of every city and town, To serche the world rowne, Never yet cast down, As other many have be: As Rome and Carthage, Jerusalem the sage, With many other of age In story as ye may see. This so oldely founded, Is so surely grounded, That no man may confounded it, It is so sure a stone, That it is upon set, For though some have it thrette With Manasses grim and great Yet hurt had it none. christ is the very stone That the city is set upon; Which from all his soon, Hath ever preserved it. By mean of dyvyne service That in continual wise Is kept in devout guise UUythin the mure of it. As houses of religion In divers places of this town, Which in great devotion, Ben ever occupied: When one hath done another begin, So that of prayer they never blyn, Such order is these houses within With all virtue allied. The parish Chyrches to reckon, Of which number I shall speken, Wherein speak many pressed and deken, And Eryste daily they serve. By mean of which sacrifice I trust that he in all wise, This city for her servyce Doth ever more preserve. This city I mean ys Troynovaunt, Where honour and worschipp doth haunt, UUyth virtue and riches accordant, No city to it like. To speak of every commodity, Flesh, and fish, and all dentye, Cloth, and silk, with wine plenty, That is for hole and sick. Brede and ale, with spices fine, With houses fair to soup and dine. Nothing lackynke that is condygne For man that is on mould. UUyth rivers fresh, and wholesome air, With women that be good and fair; And to this city done repair Of strangers many fold, The victual that herein is spent, In three households daily tent: Between Rome and rich Kent, Are none may them compare. As of the Mayre and Shrives' twain. What might I of the justice sayne, Kept within this city plain It were long to declare. For though I should all day tell, Or that with my rhyme dogerell Might I not yet half do spell This towns great honour Therefore shortly as I began, Pray for it both child and man, That it may continue, and To bear of all the flower. To his Reader of these rhymes. Who so him liketh these verses to read, With favour I pray he will them spell Let not the rudeness of them him lead For to desprave this rhyme dogerell Some part of the honour it doth you tell Of this old city Troynovant But not thereof the half dell Cunning in the maker is so adaunt. But though he had the eloquence Of Tully, and the moralytye Of Senek, and the influence Of the swyte sugared Armony, Or that fair Lady Calliope, Yet had he not cunning perfect: This city to praise in each degree As it should duly ask by right. Saint Paul's Church. The foundation of Saint Paul's Church. As of the Cathedral Churches in Canterbury and Rochester, so, I find Ethelbert, king of Kent, to be the Founder of this, here in London; dedicated to the honour of the everliving God, and Saint Paul, Doctor of the Gentiles. These are the words of his Charter, preserved here in the Church. Diploma Regis Ethelberti. In Christi nomine Aedelbertus Rex Deo inspirante, pro anime sue remedio, dedit Episcopo Melito terram que appellatur Tillingeham, ad Monasterij sui solatium, scilicet Sancti Pauli Apostoli Doctoris Gentium. Et ego Aedelbertus ita firmiter concedo tibi Presuli Melito potestatem eius habendi & possidendi, ut in perpetuum in Monasterij utilitate permaneat. Si quis vero contradicere temptaverit hanc donationem, Anathema & excomunicatus sit ab omni societate Christiana, usque ad satisfactionem. Qua de re ego Episcopus Melitus una cum Rege Aedeberto Humfredum Episcopum subscribere rogavi. Signum manus Humfredi Episcopi. Signum manus Letharij Episcopi. Signum manus Abbane. Signum manus Aethelpaldi. Signum manus Aespine & aliorum multorum. Besides this his gift of Tillingham in Essex; dedit viginti quatuor Hidas terre iuxta Londoniam (as the Lieger book of this Church speaks) the greatest part of which was afterwards divided into Prebends, as More, Finnesbury, Oldstreet, Wenlocksborne, Hoxton, Newington, S. Pancras, Kentishtowne, Totenhall, Ragener, Holborn, Portpole, Iseldon, and there only remained to the Dean and Chapter, Norton Folgate. King Athelstan at the request of Bishop Theodred (surnamed the good) gave Monasterio Sancti Pauli in Londonia Civitate, etc. decem Mansas ad Sandonam cum Rode, & octo ad Eardlage (now Yerdley) cum Luffenhede, et decem ad Bylchampe cum Picham, et octo ad Lidwolditon (nunc Heybridge) et duodecim ad Runwellam, et triginta ad Edelfesnesam (now Paul's soaken in Essex) et decem ad Breytane, et octo ad Berne; et decem ad Neoldune cum Pislesdune. King Edgar at the request of Bishop Dunstan, and his third son (beautiful young Ethelred) pro sexaginta Mancis auri puri (which is threescore Marks of our English money) dedit ad Monasterium Sancti Pauli viginti quinque Mansiones, in loco qui vocatur Nasinstocke: Which were confirmed by Etheldred, and diverse succeeding kings. Canutus or Knute the Dane, king of England, not only confirms his predecessors gifts, but also found'st and endowes the dignity of the Deanery, with the Church of Lamborne (in Berkshire) pro victu decani qui pro tempore fuerit, The first Dean whereof was Levegarus (as appears by an ancient Catalogue of the Deans amongst the Antiquities of this Church) whom succeeded Godwynus, Syredus, Gulielmus, Elfwynus, Luiredus, and in the conquerors time Wolfmannus, after him Radulphus de Diceto, that great and judicious Antiquary; Qui velut alter josephus, aut Philo, (saith Bale Cent. 2.) suae gentis vetera Monumenta, atque inclita facta perpetuare students, multa retroactis seculis incognita produxit in lucem. Edward the Confessor confirms the gift of Wygaley (now West Lee in Essex) which one Ediva a religious woman gave, Fratribus Sancti Pauli, and also gives himself Monasterio Sancti Pauli, octo Mansas ad Berling, et quinque ad Cynford, now Chyngford in Essex. Kensworth and Caddington, and diverse other lands were given to this Church before the Conquest, In Arch. Turris Lond. Cartae antiqua A. all which the Conqueror confirms by his Charter remaining amongst the Records in the Tower, adding thereunto many ample privileges and immunities. Quia volo (saith he) ut ista Ecclesia ita sit libera in omnibus, sicut volo esse animam meam in die iudicij. Moreover, besides this confirmation, he gave unto this Church, and Mauritius the Bishop, the Castle of Stortford or Storford in Hertfordshire, with all the appurtenances belonging thereunto, for ever: and namely, the land which William the Deacon, and Ralph his brother held of the king. William Rufus by his deed sealed, freeth the Canons of Paul's from all works to the walls and Tower of London, and withal confirms all his father's donations and privileges. This deed was dated at Hereford. Since which time, one Peter Newport (of which name and family many lie entombed in burnt Pelham, within Hertfordshire) gave unto this Church two hundred acres of wood, in Hadley, and Thundersey, in Essex, and fourscore Acres of arable land with a Brewhouse; out of which the Dean and Chapter were to pay a certain sum of money to a Priest to say Mass for his soul. Sir Philip Basset knight, gave Drayton to the Dean and Chapter, to the intent that they should pay 15. l. for ever to three chaplains, for the like service of saying Mass, and his Executours gave Hayrstead, out of which there was yearly spent five pounds for an Obits. The Executors of john of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, gave to this Church the Manors of Bows, and Pecleshouse in Midlesex, for the maintenance of certain Priests, to sing Mass for his soul. And of these Manors the Church was possessed until the latter end of king Henry the eight. The Churches of Willesdon, Sunbury, Brickesley, Rickling, and Aueley, were impropriated to the Dean, and Chapter, by diverse Bishops; the Impropriations whereof were theirs at that time. Besides their lands and revenues in the country, these Churchmen had diverse houses in the City, which were granted sometime Deo et Sancto Paulo, sometime Deo et Sancti Pauli seruientibus, sometime Sancto Paulo et Canonicis. Of these I have seen many deeds, among which one is most remarkable, dated in the year 1141. the sixth of king Stephen, and fastened with a label to the end of a stick, of what wood I know not, howsoever it remains to this day free from worme-holes, or any the least corruption, not so much as in the bark. Whereby one Robert Fitz-Gousbert, for his soul's health, gives unto this Church a certain parcel of land, or an house, containing eight foot in breadth, and six in length. Upon which wood, or stick, these words following are very fair written, Per hoc lignum oblata est terra Roberti filij Gousberti super altare Sancti Pauli in festo omnium Sanctorum. Testibus, etc. But to make an end of this discourse. Primitiva Ecclosie Sancti Pauli London fundatio (saith the Lieger book) consistit in Episcopo, triginta maioribus Canonicis, duodecim minoribus, et triginta vicarijs: which differs from her present state, having at this time for her governors, a Bishop, a Dean, a Precentor, a Chancellor, a Treasurer, and five Archdeacon's, viz of London, Middlesex, Essex, Colchester, and S. Albon, and thirty Prebendaries; and besides to furnish the Choir in divine service, Pety-Canons twelve, Vicar's Choral six, and ten Queristers, etc. This Bishopric comprehends the City of London, with the counties of Middlesex, and Essex, and the Deaneries of Saint Alban, and Braughing in Hertfordshire. And is valued in the king's books at 1119. l. 8. s. 4. d. and yielded the Pope from every Bishop at his first entrance 3000. Florins, besides sixteen pounds ten shillings for Romescot, or Peter-pences. But now to the Monuments. Sebba king of the Eastsaxons Hic iacet Sebba Rex Orientalium Saxonum qui conversus fuit ad fidem per S. Erkenwaldum Londinens. Episcopum, anno Christi 677. Vir multum Deo devotus, actibus religiosis, crebris precibus, & pijs eleemosynarum fructibus plurimum intentus; vitam privatam et monasticam cunctis regni divitijs & honoribus preferens. Qui cum regnasset annis 30. habitum religiosum accepit per benedictionem Waltheri Londinens. Lib. 4. cap. 11. Antistitis qui prefato Erkenwaldo successit, de quo venerabilis Beda in Historia gentis Anglorum. The same Author further affirms, that he not only relinquished his Princely robes, and put on the habit of a Monk (a thing usual (as you have heard before) with the Saxon kings in the infancy of Christian Religion) but also instigated his wife to leave the momentany pleasures of Courtly estate, and to follow him in his virtuous devotions, which with much ado he obtained. Here he continued a Monk in this Monastery (for in his time, saith Radulphus de Diceto, were Monks in this Church) until the day of his death, which happened in the year 693. Of this king Sebba thus much out of a late writer, Mich. Draiton, Polyol. Cant. 11. Then Sebba of his seed, that did them all surpass, Who fitter for a Shrine, then for a Sceptre was. (Above the power of flesh his appetite to starve That his desired Christ he strictly might observe) Even in the height of life, in health, and body strong, Persuaded with his Queen, a Lady fair and young: To separate themselves, and in a sole estate, After religious sort themselves to dedicate. Hic iacet Etheldredus, Etheldred king of England, surnamed, The Unready. Anglorum Rex, filius Edgari Regis, cui in die consecrationis post impositam Coronam, fertur S. Dunstanus Cantuar. Archiepiscopus dira predixisse his verbis. Quoniam aspirasti ad Regnum per mortem fratris tui, in cuius sanguine conspiraverunt Angli cum ignominiosa matre tua, non deficiet gladius de domo tua seviens in te omnibus diebus vite tue, interficiens de semine tuo quousque regnum tuam transferatur in regnum alienum, cuius ritum et linguam gens cui presides non novit; nec expiabitur nisi longa vindicta peccatum tuum, et peccatum matris tue, & peccata virorum qui interfuere concilio illius nequam. Que sicut à viro sancto predicta erant, evenerunt. Nam Etheldredus varijs prelijs per Swanum Danorum Regem, filium que suum Canutum fatigatus & fugatus ac tandem Londini arcta obsidione conclusus, misere diem obijt anno dominice incarnationis 1017. postquam annis 36. in magna tribulatione regnasset. This Etheldred being neither forward in action, Will. Malms. nor fortunate in his proceedings, was commonly called, The unready, an oppressor rather than a ruler of this kingdom, cruel in the beginning, wretched in the middle, and shameful in the end. Of the calamities of these times by the Danish invasion, will it please you hear my old Author. Swan with his power to Engelond come, Rob. Glocest. In the xxv yer of Etheldreds' kingdom, And in the yer of grace a thousand and three He came and dude sorrow inogh no more might be So thilk hiis come that this land they 'gan overfulle As hit were Emettes creeping fro hur hull * they, i Hii ne spared Pressed, ne Clerk that hii ne slaw to ground Ne women with child where so hii hem found. Besides the prophecy of Dunstan, here set down in this Inscription, and thus ratified by the event; the transferring of this kingdom to other Nations, was further likewise prophetically foretold by an holy Anchorite, saith, Hen. Hunting: Englished in these words by the Translator of Ranulph, Monk of Chester. Lib 6 cap. ●: ●ib. 1● ca ●lt. But among all englishmen meddled togydres is so great changing and diversity of clothing and array, and so many manner of divers shapes, that well nigh is there any man known by his clothing and his array of whatsoever degree that he be. Thereof prophezyed an holy Anchor in K. * Etheldred. Egelfreds' time in this manner. Englyshmen for as much as they use to dronkelewnes, to Treason, and to recklessness of God's house, first by Danes, and then by Normans, and atte thirde time by Scots they shall be overcome. Suaviss victoria Amor populi. The love of the people was a pleasant sweet Conquest (a Motto which I saw depicted under the Arms of our late Sovereign Lord King james, over one of the gates at York, upon his first auspicious entrance into that ancient City, Ann. 1603. die Aprilis 16.) Thus for a king to overcome, was but to come, and to be welcome, to be received of his Subjects in all places, with shouts and acclamations of joy, demonstrations of truest loyalty, love, and obedience, and to be conducted and guarded with an admirable confluence of his Nobility, Gentry, and Commons, unto the Throne of his lawful inheritance. Erkenwald Bishop of Lond. Hoc in loco requiescit in domino Erconwaldus tertius post Anglosaxonum in Britannia ingressam Episcopus Londinensis, cuius in Episcopatu, & ante Episcopatum vita fuit sanctissima: ex nobili prosapia oriundus. Off orientalium Saxonum Regis erat filius, ad fidem Christianam à Mellito primo Londini Episcopo An. Dom. 642. conversus. Is priusquam Episcopus factus esset duo preclara construxit Monasteria sumptibus suis, de bonis que ture hereditario sibi obuenerunt. Vnum sibi in finibus Australium Saxonum loco qui Certesey vocatur: alterum Edelburge sorori sue femine laudatissime ad Berching in ditione Orientalium Saxonum. In Episcopatum vero anno salutis, 675. à Theodoro D●robernensium siue Cantuarie Archiepiscopo sacratus est: Sebbam Orientalium Saxonum Regem ad Christi sidem convertit, et salutari Baptismatis unda suis manibus per fudit, qui statim mundo renuncians, se totum Deo addixit, & in hac ipsa Ecclesia archa marmorea (que ad nostra usque tempora permanet) sepultus est. Idem Erconwaldus celeberrimum hoc S. Pauli templum novis edificijs auxit, proventibus locupletavit, et eidem immunitates nonnullas à Regibus impetravit. Tandem circiter annum Domini 685. spiritum Deo reddidit, postquam annis undecim in pontificatu sedisset. Et magnifico sepulchro hic conditus est, quod nostra memoria circiter annum Domini, 1533. hoc loco visebatur. This careful holy Bishop Erconwald, not only bestowed great pains and charges upon the beautifying and enlarging his Church with fair new buildings, De gestis Pontif. lib. 2. which he enriched with more ample revenues; and many immunities obtained from diverse kings and Princes; but also procured from Pope Agatho the first, sundry important privileges for the good of his Canons. Habetur ergo Erkenwaldus (saith Malmesbury) Londonie maxim sanctus, & pro exauditionis celeritate, favorem Canonicorum nonnihil emeritus. Beda lib. 4. ca 6. Venerable Bede, and the Annals of this Church (from whom the most) of this Inscription is borrowed) do attribute many miracles to the holiness of this man, Harpsfeeld. Secul. 7. cap. 13. in regard of which he was canonised, and his Relics translated, Anno salutis millesimo centesimo quadragesimo: and the fourteenth day of November, appointed to be kept sacred to his memory. As in our Calendar may be seen. Hic iacet Eustachius de Fauconberg quondam Episcopus huius Ecclesie qui multa bona contulit ministris Ecclesie S. Pauli. Eustace de Fauconbridge Bishop of Lond. This Bishop, as appears by an Inscription annexed to his Tomb, had been one of the King's justices, Lord Treasurer of England, and twice Ambassador into France. And died Octob. 31. 1228. having governed this See seven years and six months. Of whom I have read this Epitaph in an old Manuscript. Hic iacet Eustachius, In bib. Cott. redolens ut Asyria nardus, Virtutum multis floribus, & meritis. Vir fuit hic magnus, & Episcopus ..... ut Agnus Vita conspicuus, dogmate precipuus. Pro quo qui transis supplex orare memor sis Vt sit ei saties alma Dei facies. The like Inscription and Table is to the memory of Henry de Wingham (so named of Wingham in Kent the place of his birth) he had been Chamberlain of Gascoigne, Henry de Wingham Bishop of London. Deane of Totenhall, and Saint martin's, twice Ambassador into France, Mat. Paris. and Lord Chancellor of England. Rex enim de fidelitate Domini Henrici de Vuengham experta confisus, qui clericus eius et consiliarius extitisset specialis, commisit eidem custodiam Sigilli. He enjoyed this Bishopric but a short time, being taken away by death, july 13. 1262. as appears by this Epitaph. De Wengham natus Henricus ad astra levatus Lib. Mon. de Waverley in bib. Cott. Hic nece prostratus iacet, anno Pontificatus, Ter vix, & Domini, Mil. Sexagint. bis, que bis C. Huic sis saluamen, Deus O, te deprecor. Amen. Hic requiescit in Domino Rogerus cognomento Niger quondam Canonicus huius Ecclesie S. Pauli: Rager the black Bishop of London. ac deinde in Londinens. Episcopum consecratus, Anno salutis 1228. vir in literatura profundus, moribus honestus, ac per omnia laudabilis, Christiane Religionis amator, ac defensor strenuus; Qui cum pastorale officium vigilanter & studiose rexisset; Annis 14. diem suum clausit extremum apud Manerium suum de Stebunheath: 3. Calend. Octob. Ann. Christi 1241. regnante Rege Hen. 3. Contigit his diebus, dum Episcopus iste Rogerus in hac Ecclesia ante maius Altare staret infulatus ad celebrandum divina, quod tanta in aere facta est nubium densitas, ut vix alterum discernere possit, quam confestim sequnta est Tonitrui horribilis concussio, cum tanta fulminis coruscatione, ac fetore intollerabili, ut omnes qui aderant rapide fugientes nihil verius quam mortem expectarent. Solus Episcopus cum uno Diacono remansit intrepidus. Aere tandem purgato Episcopus residuum rei Diuine explevit. You may read more of him, in Matthew Paris, how stoutly he withstood the Pope's Nuntio, coming here into England with a proling device to scrape up money for his Master. How this good Bishop cried out upon the unreasonable and shameless covetousness of the Court of Rome, and how he was the only means of staying the course of such grievous exactions. There you may also read the fearful story of this Cimmerian darkness, and horrible thunderclap, which happened upon the day of S. Paul's conversion, in this Cathedral Church, the Bishop being then at Mass. Many miracles, saith the same Author, were wrought at his Tomb. But let us hear his Epitaph. Ecclesie quondam Presul presentis, in anno M. bis C. quater X. iacet hic Rogerus humatus. Huius erat manibus Domino locus iste dicatus: Christ suis precibus veniam des, tolle reatus. It was this Bishop Roger, who excommunicated the Caursini (a dangerous stout attempt in those days) called the Pope's Merchants, but they were indeed most execrable Roman Usurers, who had entangled the king himself, most of the Nobility, and all others that had to do with the Court of Rome, in their cunning snares. They were called Caursini (saith Paris) quasi capientes ursi: devouring Bears. Orate pro anima Roberti Brabroke ..... quondam Episcopi huius Ecclesie, cuius corpus hic tumulatur, Rob. Braybrooke Bishop of London. qui obijt 27. Augusti 1405. cum sedisset, Ann. 20. This Bishop was advanced to the honour of being Lord Chancellor, upon Saint Mathewes Eve, in the sixth year of king Richard the second; which office he enjoyed no longer than the March following, upon some disagreement betwixt him and john of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. Of which you may read more at large in Tho. Walsingham, Hist. Angl. Rob. Fitz-Hugh Bishop of London. Here lieth interred the body of Robert Fitz-Hugh, Bishop of London, Doctor of Law, and sometimes Archdeacon of Northampton, who had been twice Ambassador, once into Germany, and another time to Rome. He was elected Bishop of Ely, but died before his intended translation could be perfected, Septemb. 22. Ann. 1435. To which effect thus speaks his Epitaph. Nobilis Antistes Robertus Londoniensis, Filius Hugonis, his requiescit honour Doctorum, flos Pontificij quem contulit Ely, Rome Basilie Regia facta refert. Plangite eum Rex, grex, tria natio tota, Extera gens, si qua noverat ulla pium. Gemma pudicitie, spectrum bonitatis, honoris, Famaque justicie, formula iuris erat. Mors violenta rapit viventem unde cui mors Extitit, et moritur vita beata tulit. Mille quadragentis triginta quinque sub annis In festo Mauri celica regna petit. Thomas Kempe Bishop of London. Infra capellam istam requiescit corpus Domini Thome Kemp, quondam Episcopi London fundatoris eiusdem, et unius Cantarie perpetue in eadem: qui multa bona tempore vite sue Ecclesie Sancti Pauli, et stetit 39 annis: 84. diebus: Episcopus London: ac obijt 28. die mens. Martij Ann. Dom. 1489. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. This Thomas Kempe was Nephew to john Kempe, Archbishop of Canterbury, at whose hands he received Consecration, at York place, now called White hall, Ann. 1449. Febr. 8. his Uncle being as then Archbishop of York. This Bishop, and not Duke Vmphrey (as it is commonly believed by report) built, Brian Twin. Antiq. Acad. Ox. for the most part, the Divinity Schools in Oxford, as they stood before Bodleyes' foundation; with walls, Arches, Vaults, doors, towers, and pinnacles, all of square, smooth, polished stone, and artificially depainted the Doctor's Chair, to the lively representation of the glorious frame of the celestial globle. He built also Paul's Cross in form as as it now standeth. Here lieth john Stokesley Bishop of this Church, john Stokesley Bishop of London. brought up at Magdelene College in Oxford, and here enthronised july 19 1530. Who died Septemb. 8. 1539. A part of his Epitaph as yet remains inlaid in brass, which approves him to have been a good Linguist, and a great Scholar. Huius in obscuro tumuli interiore recessit, Stokesley cineres ossaque tecta iacent. Cuius fama patens, vite decus, ingenijque Dexteritas ..... luce tamen. Iste Deo, Regique suo, populoque fideli Viveret ut charus perpetuo studuit. Exterius siquidem potuit regionibus .... .................... Qui Latias lustravit opes, intravit hebreas; Huic & grecorum palma parata fuit. Artes quid memorem vanas ad quas penetravit, Quum 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 auctus honore fuit. .............. Virgins & matris cultori certa supremum, Natalem Marie fata dedere diem. I read in the Catalogue of Bishops, William Bishop of London. and other writers (for all the Inscriptions of any Antiquity, made to the memory of other Bishops here interred, are altogether erazed or stolen away) that William a Norman, who enjoyed this Bishopric in the conquerors time, lieth here interred in the body of the Church. Unto whom the City of London acknowledgeth itself greatly beholding, for that the king, by his means and instant suit, granted unto them all kind of liberties, in as ample manner as they enjoyed them in the time of his predecessor Ed. the Confessor. These are the words of the Conquerors grant, written in the Saxon tongue, and sealed with green wax. Williem king grets Williem Bisceop, Charta London. and Godfred Porterefan, and ealle ya Burghwarn binnen London Frencisce and Englise frendlice, and ickiden eoy, yeet ic will yeet git ben ealra weera lagay weore, ye get weeran on Eadwards' daege kings. And ic will yeet aelc child by his father yrfnume, after his faders' daege. And i● nelle ge wolian yeet aenig man coy aenis wrang beode God coy healed. Which in English is to this effect following. William king greets William Bishop, and Godfrey Portgrave, and all the Burrow of London, French and English friendly. And I make known to you, that ye be worthy to enjoy all that Law and privilege which ye did in the days of King Edward. And I will that every child be his father's heir after his father's decease. And I will not suffer that any man do unto you any injury. God you keep. In thankfulness hereof, the Citizens caused to be engraven an Epitaph upon his Tomb in Latin, thus Englished by john Stow. To William, a man famous in wisdom and holiness of life, who first with Saint Edward the king and Confessor being familiar, of late preferred to be Bishop of London, and not long after, for his prudency and sincere fidelity, admitted to be of Council with the most victorious Prince William king of England, of that name the first, who obtained of the same great and large privileges to this famous City. The Senate and Citizens of London, to him having well deserved, have made this. He continued Bishop twenty years, and died in the year after Christ his nativity, 1070. These marble Monuments to thee thy Citizens assign, Rewards (O father) far unfit to those deserts of thine. Thee unto them a faithful friend, thy London people found, And to this Town, of no small weight, a stay both sure and sound. Their liberties restored to them, by means of thee have been, Their public weal by means of thee, large gifts have felt and seen Thy riches, stock, and beauty brave, one hour hath them suppressed, Yet these thy virtues, and good deeds, with us for ever rest. But this Tomb was long since either destroyed by time, or taken away upon some occasion: yet howsoever the Lord Mayor of London, and the Aldermen his brethren, upon those solemn days of their resort to Paul's, do still use to walk to the grave-stone where this Bishop lieth buried, in remembrance of their privileges by him obtained. And now of late years an Inscription fastened to the pillar next adjoining to his grave (called, The reviuall of a most worthy Prelate's remembrance, erected at the sole cost and charges of the right honourable and nobly affected Sir Edward Barkham knight, Lord Mayor of the City of London, Ann. 1622.) thus speaks to the walkers in Paul's: Walkers, whosoe'er you be, If it prove your chance to see, Upon a solemnes scarlet day, The City Senate pass this way, Their grateful memory for to show Which they the reverend ashes owe Of Bishop Norman here inhumed; By whom this City hath assumed Large privileges. Those obtained By him, when Conqueror William reigned. This being by thankful Barkhams' mind renewed, Call it the Monument of Gratitude. Here lieth buried Fulk Basset, Fulke Basset Bishop of London. Bishop of this Church, preferred hither from the Deanrie of York, a Gentleman of an ancient great family, second brother of that Gilbert Basset, who through the stumbling of his horse, fell in a certain wood, Mat. 〈◊〉 as he went a hunting in the harvest time, Ann. 1241. and broke so his bones and sinews, that within a few days after he died: and shortly after, even in the same month, the only son of this Gilbert, being a child, died, whereby that lordly inheritance came to this Fulk Basset: who, as he was a man of great lineage, and also of ample, both temporal, and Ecclesiastical possessions, so was he a Prelate of an invincible high spirit; stout and courageous to resist those insupportable exactions which the Pope's Legate Rustandus, Paris. went about to lay upon the Clergy, and at such a time when the Pope and the king, like the Shepherd and the Wolf, joined both together to destroy the Sheepfold. Much what about which time, to the same effect, certain rhymes were scattered abroad, as I have before set down in the Diocese of Canterbury. Such were the Pope's rapines and enormous proceedings in those days, all which this stout Bishop withstood to the uttermost of his power. He died of the plague here in London, Ann. 1258. having governed this See 14. years odd months. A Monument was made to his eternal memory, whereupon this Distich was inlaid in brass. Prudens & fortis iacet hac Episcopus arca Bone iesu. In bib. Cott. Bassettis' ortus, cui parcas summe Hierarcha Bone iesu. Here lieth entombed in the North wall, john de Chishull, Io. Chishull Bishop of Lond. who sometimes had been Deane of Paul's, Archdeacon and Bishop of London, Lord Treasurer of England, Mat. Westm. and twice Keeper of the great Seal. He was consecrated April 29. 1274▪ and died the tenth, 1279. Upon the Monument of Richard Newport, Rich. Newport Bishop of London. Bishop of this Church here buried, a little inscription not long since was to be read, expressing the day and year of his consecration, which was March 26. 1317. And the like of his death, which happened August 24. 1318. the year following. Ralph Baldock, Ralph Baldock Bishop of London. Deane of this Church, was chosen Bishop upon Saint Mathias day, 1303. but was not consecrated till the year 1305. january 30. which he received at the hands of one Petrus Hispanus, a Cardinal, Bishop of Alba, at Lions in France. He was a man very well learned, and amongst other things, writ an History or Chronicle of England, in the Latin tongue. Godwin. Catal. In his life time he gave two hundred Marks toward the building of the Chapel on the East end of this Church, now called, The Lady Chapel; wherein he lieth buried: and in his Will bequeathed much toward the finishing of the same. And here by the way, saith mine Author, it shall not be amiss to note, that in digging the foundation of this building, there were found more than an hundred heads of cattle, as oxen, kine, stags', Stow. Annal. &c. which seem to confirm the opinion of those that think the Temple of jupiter was situate in that place before the planting of Christian Religion; Fran. Thin. took away those idolatrous sacrifices. This Bishop was chosen Lord Chancellor by king Edward the first. Upon whose death he sent the great Seal to king Edward the second, as then lying at Carliell. This Ralph is mistaken by some writers for Robert Baldock, Bishop of Norwich (yet I find no such Bishop of that See in the Catalogue) sometime Archdeacon of Midlesex, and Chancellor of England. Much what about that time, a man that lived in the hatred of most people, whom the old English Chronicle calleth a false peeled Priest: Rob. Glocest. these are the words; Robart Baldok his false pilide chancellor (being as then Chancellor to Edward the second) and in another place, Ye pilide clerk Robart Baldok, ye falls chancellor. Yet this pilide falls clerk was ever true to the King his Lord and Master: for which he was taken and imprisoned in Newgate London, wherein he miserably ended his days. Of which thus writeth the Author of the book of Durham. . Robertus de Baldock Cancellarius 1325. captus cum Hugonibus de despensers, quia Clericus fuit & Sacerdos in nona porta Londiniarum poni fecit Edwardus Princeps et Isabella matter eius, ubi pro nimia miseria mortuus fuit infra breve. But to return to Ralph (for I have somewhat digressed from the matter) Bishop of this Diocese, who, when from his first confirmation by Robert of Winchelsey, Bishop of Canterbury, he had sat about eight years, died on S. james his Eve, 1313. at Stell. Michael Northbrooke Bishop of London. Here lieth buried Michael Northbrooke, Bishop of this See, Doctor of Law, who had his election confirmed july 7. 1355. and died of the plague, Septemb. 9 1361. at Copford. This Bishop gave a chest with a thousand Marks; which money was to be lent to the poor upon security: as appears by his will. In Arch. Turris Lond. Michael de Northburghe nuper Episcopus Lond. legavit in testamento suo, sic. Item lego ad faciend. unam cistam que stabit in Thesauria Sancti Pauli mille Marcas in eadem includend. de quibus possit quilibet pauper & plebeus sub bona & excedenti pignore mutuo recipere decem libras, 1. Pars. Pat. Ann. 49. Ed. 3. M. 30. Rich. Clifford Bishop of London. Here lieth interred under a marble stone, near to the Monument of Sir Christopher Hatton, the body of Richard Clifford, Archdeacon of Canterbury, from which dignity he was preferred to the Bishopric of Worcester, which he enjoyed about six years; and from thence translated to this See of London, which he laudably governed thirteen years, and some months: Godwin. Catal. and died, August 20. 1421. This Bishop in the year 1414. traveled to the Council of Constance, and preached in Latin before the Emperor, and other Estates there assembled. In this Council the long schism was ended, and Martin the fifth, called before Otho Columna, Cardinal of Saint George, was chosen the sole Pope. The Council thinking it meet that thirty persons should be added to the Cardinals in this election; this our Richard Clifford was one of that number. In which also there were some that named him to the Papacy. Himself was the first that named the Cardinal Columna: who thereupon, the rest consenting, was immediately elected. Between the two pillars, next unto the Steeple, on the North side of the body of the Church, under a marble stone, over which was built a kind of Tomb, Richard Fitz-Iames Bishop of London. or Chapel of wood, that by the burning of the steeple was consumed, and quite defaced; the body of Rich. Fitz-Iames lieth interred. A gentleman of an ancient house, learned and virtuous: Doctor of Law, brought up in Merton College in Oxford, and sometimes Warden of the same; Godwin. de Praesul. Ang. from whence he was advanced to the Bishopric of Rochester, from thence translated to Chichester, and from Chichester to London. He bestowed much money in repairing the Church of S. Martin's in Oxford, as also in adorning and beautifying this his own Cathedral Church. He died in the year 1521. Hic in Domino obdormivit johannes Gandavensis, john of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster. vulgo de Gaunt, à Gandavo Flandrie urbe loco natali ita denominatus; Edwardi tercij Regis Anglie filius, à Patre comitis Richmondie titulo ornatus. Tres sibi uxores in matrimonio duxit, primam Blancham, filiam & heredem Henrici Ducis Lancastrie per quam amplissimam adijt hereditatem. Nec solum Dux lancaster, sed etiam Leicestrie, Lincolnie, & Derbie comes effectus. E cuius sobole Imperatores, Reges, Principes, & proceres propagati sunt plurimi. Alteram habuit uxorem Constantiam (que hic contumulatur) filiam & heredem Petri Regis Castillie et Legionis, cuius iure optimo titulo Regis Castillie et Legionis usus est. Haec unicam illi peperit filiam Catharinam, ex qua ab Henrico Reges Hispanie sunt propagati. Tertiam vero uxorem duxit Catharinam, ex Equestri familia, & eximia pulchritudine feminam, ex qua numero sam suscepit prolem: Vnde genus ex matre duxit Henricus 7. Rex. Anglie prudentissimus. Cuius felicissimo coniugio cum Elisabetha, Edw. 4. Regis filia, e stirpe Eboracensi Regie ille Lancastriensium et Eboracensium family, ad exoptatissimam Anglie pacem coaluerunt. Illustrissimus hic princeps Iohannes cognomento Plantagenet, Rex Castillie & Legionis. Dux lancaster, comes Richmondie, Leicestrie, Lincolnie & Derbie, locum tenens Aquitanie, Magnus Seneschallus Anglie obijt Ann. 22. Regni Regis Ricardi 2. Annoque Domini. 1399. His first wife Blanch, Blanch Duchess of Lancaster. here buried, died of the plague, saith Io. Stow, Ann. 1369. She ordained for her husband and herself, a solemn Obits to be kept yearly in this Church, where the Mayor, being present at the Mass with the Sheriffs, Fabian. Chamberlain, and Swordbearer, should offer each of them a penny, and the Mayor to take up twenty shillings: the Sheriffs either of them a Mark, the Chamberlain ten shillings, and the Sword-bearer six shillings eight pence, and every other of the Mayor's officers (there present) two and twenty pence a piece: the which Obyte, saith Fabian, to this day is holden. She also founded four Chantrees in this Church for the souls of herself and her husband; and was greatly beneficial unto the Dean and Canons. His second wife Constance died in the year 1395. whom he solemnly and Princely interred by his first wife Blanch. Constance Duchess of Lancaster. Vpodigma. Neust. She was (saith Walsingham) mulier super feminas innocens, & devota: A Lady above Ladies, innocent, devout, and zealous. Of his third wife Katherine, when I come to Lincoln Minster, where she lieth entombed. Henry Lacie, Henry Lacie Earl of Lincoln. Earl of Lincoln, lieth here entombed in the new work, which was of his own foundation, under a goodly Monument, with his armed portraiture crosslegged, as one that had professed his uttermost endeavour for defence of the holy Land. He was styled Earl of Lincoln, Baron of Halton, Constable of Chester, Lord of Pomfret, Blackburnshire, Ros in Wales, and Rowennocke. He was Protector of England whilst King Edward the second was in Scotland, and Viceroy sometime in the Duchy of Aquitaine. In bib. Cott. Vir illustris in consilio, strenuus in omni guerra & prelio, Princeps militie in Anglia, & in omni regno ornatissimus, saith the book of Dunmow. By his first wife Margaret (daughter and heir of William Longspee, grandchild of William Longspee Earl of Salisbury) he had two sons, Edmund drowned in a Well in Denbeigh Castle; and john, who died young: Vincent. Catal. both of them dead before their father. And one daughter named Alice, married to Thomas Plantagenet, Earl of Lancaster. He died at his house, now called Lincoln's Inn in Chancerie-lane London, Feb. the fifth, 1310. being threescore years of age, as I have it out of the book of whaley, Lib. Mo●. de whaley. in these words. Iste Henricus Comes Lincol. obijt Anno etat is lx. Ann. Domini. M. CCC. X. in festo Sancte Agathe Martyris circa gallicinium. Laurence Allerthorp Lord Treasurer. In the same Chapel, dedicated to S. Dunstan, lieth Laurence Allerthorp, sometimes Canon of this Church, and Lord Treasurer of England, with this Inscription. Hic iacet Laurentius Allerthorp quondam Thesaurarius Anglie, Canonicus & Stagiarius istius Ecclesie, qui migravit ex hoc seculo mens. julij die 21. 1406. This Allerthorp being a man of no more eminency in the Church than a Canon resident, was never thought of, or not believed, by the * Francis Thin Collector of the Lord Treasurers, to have ascended to such an honour, so that he lies here in a darksome room, as a sacrifice to oblivion; small notice taken of him, except by some few of the Churchmen. Now give me leave to tell you, by way of digression, that howsoever this Allerthorp was but one of the Canons resident, yet he was solely the one, and had most or all the revenues of the rest in his hands; for (as the Records of this Church do approve) those thirty Canons upon the primary institution, called Canons Regular (because they led a regular life, and were perpetually resident) and afterwards living abroad, and neglecting the business of their Church, became to be called Canons secular, contenting themselves with the title of Canon, and some prebend assigned unto them. Which annexing of lands to the prebendary was not till a long time after the first foundation: whereupon Pope Lucius by his Bull ordained, that the Canons nonresident, should not partake of the profits of the lands assigned to the common affairs of the Church, but only such as were resident (the division of the Church's lands having been made before in the time of the Conqueror) and this Laurence Allerthorp, at and before the time of his Treasurship, was solus residentiarius, and had the whole revenue of the rest at his own disposing, by way of Option, as it is called in the Lieger book. But of this enough, if not too much. Then to conclude, howsoever this Allerthorp be altogether excluded out of the Treatise of the Treasurers, and Sir john Northberie, knight, keeper of the privy Garderobe in the Tower, said to be Lord Treasurer in the first, second, and third of king Henry the fourth: in which time the said Allerthorp should enjoy that office, or not at all. Yet these words in his Patent, together with this Epitaph, do approve him to have been adorned with the honourable Office of a solicitous Lord Treasurer. Laurentius de Allerthorp Clericus habet officium Thesaurarij Anglie, In Arch. Turris Lond. quamdiu T.R. apud W. 31. Maij. 9 pars. pat. 2. Hen. 4. membrana 14. Hic requiescit Simon Burly Banerettus, quinque Portuum prefectus, Sir Simon Burley knight of the Garter. Ordinis Garterij Miles, & Ricardo 2. Consiliarius longe charissimus, connubio sibi coniunctas habuit ex amplissimis familijs duas uxores, alteram Staffordie, alteram Baronis de Roos filiam. Verum difficillimo illo tempore cum inter Anglie Proceres omnia sub iuuene Principe simultatibus agitarentur, in tantum nonnullorum odium incurrit, ut Parlamentaria authoritate capite plecteretur. Anno Dom. 1388. Posteri autem eadem postea authoritate sub Rege Henrico quarto sunt restituti. Edward the black Prince took such affection to this Sir Simon Burley for his valour, wisdom, and true service, that he committed to his governance his only son (then living) Richard of Bordeaux; who, being afterwards king of England, by the name of Richard the second, advanced him to high honours, offices, and promotions: and nothing was done in matters of State without his appointment and direction. Thus he continued always loyal to his Sovereign Lord the king; yet lived in the hatred of the Peers of the Land, as also of the common people, for that he leaned to the party of Robert de Veer, Stow. Annal. Earl of Oxford, Duke of Ireland, and the king's favourite, and was an oppressor of the poor Commons: insomuch that by the sentence of that Parliament, which wrought wonders, An. 11. Ric. secundi, he was condemned of treason, and beheaded on the Tower hill; as in the Inscription. He was first Vicechamberlaine to king Richard, who made him Constable of Dover Castle, and Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports; delivering the keys of the said Castle to the said Simon in sign of possession: so much would he grace him with his presence, thus recorded. Simon de Burley Miles subcamerarius Regis haebt officium Constabularij Castri Dover & custody. In Arch. Turris Lond. 5. Portuum ad totam vitam suam sicut Robertus de Assheton Chr. iam defunctus nuper habuit: & Rex super hoc ipso Simoni in dicto Castro in presenti existens claues tradidit in signum possessionis earundem. T.R. apud Dover 24. jan 2. Pars. Pat. Ann. 7. Ric. 2. Per versus patet hos Anglorum quod iacet hic flos; Sir Ralph Hengham chief justice of the Kings Bench. Legum qui tata dictavit vera statuta; Ex Hengham dictus Radulphus vir benedictus. This flower of our English Garden, this learned father of the Law, this blessed man (as this Epitaph would make him) was no better than a bribing judge; for, being a chief Commissioner for the government of the kingdom, in the absence of Edward the first, he, with many others of his profession, were, at the king's return, found guilty by act of Parliament, of manifest corruption, judges fined for bribery and extortion. in their administration of justice, and deeply fined for such their intolerable extortions. First this Sir Ralph Hengham, chief justice of the higher Bench, was fined to pay to the king seven thousand Marks. Stow. Annal. Sir john Loveton justice of the lower Bench 3000. Marks. Sir William Brompton justice, 6000. Marks. Sir Solomon Rochester, 4000 Marks. Sir Richard Boyland 4000 Marks. Sir Thomas Sodington 2000 Marks. Sir Walter Hopton 2000 Marks. These four last were justice's Itinerants. Sir William Saham 3000. Marks. Robert Lithbury, Master of the Rolls, 1000 Marks. Roger Leicester 1000 Marks. Henry Bray Escheater, and judge for the jews, 1000 Marks. Robert Preston 1000 Marks. But Sir Adam Stratton, chief Baron of the Exchequer, was fined in thirty four thousand Marks. And Thomas Weyland (found the greatest delinquent, and of greatest substance) had all his goods, and whole estate confiscated to the king, and withal banished the kingdom. This Sir Ralph Hengham was a Norfolk man borne, as I have it out of an old Record; these are the words. Radulphus de Hengham ex eadem ortus esse videtur familia, ex qua, Willielmus filius Ade de Hengham et Richardus de Hengham in Pago Norfolciens plerumque Thetfordie justiciarij ad Assisas capiendas, et ad Gaolam deliberandam sub initijs Hen. 3. in Archivis sepe memorantur, Rot. Parl. He flourished in the reigns of Henry the third, and Edward the first, and died in the first year of Edward the second, 1308. Fulke Lovel Archdeacon of Colchester. Hic iacet Magister Fulco Lovel, quondam Archidiaconus Colcestrie floruit sub Hen. 3. Rege. I find no more of this man then what I read in this Inscription; but much more of his name, Io. Boys, Nich. Rikkell, and Isabella their wife. being both ancient and honourable. Orate pro animabus johannis de Boys in Com. Essex, Ar. Nicholai Rikkil, Ar. & Domine Isabelle quondam uxor eorum que Isabella obiit 28. julij, Ann. 1443. quorum animabus propitietur altissimus. It seems by his arms upon the pillars, that this Boys was a great repairer of this Chapel, William Worsley Deane of this Church. sacred to S▪ George, wherein he lieth interred. Orate pro anima Magistri Williel. Worsley, legum doctoris istius Ecclesie Sancti Pauli London Decani dum vixit .... qui obiit 15. die mens. Augusti, 1488. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Vermibus hic ponor, & sic ostendere conor, Hic veluti ponor, ponitur omnis honour. And upon the pillar adjoining to this Monument, these verses following are engraven in brass: Vnde superbis Homo cuius conceptio culpa, Nasci pena, labour vita, necesse mori. Vana salus hominum, vanus labour, omnia vana; Inter vana nichil vanius est homine. Post hominem vermis, post vermem setor & horror, Sic in non hominem vertitur omnis homo. Mors venit absque mora, nescis cum venerit hora Esto paratus ei cum venerit hora diei. .... Ode●y Canon of this Church. Orate pro .... Domini Rogeri Brabazon de O devy juris Canonici, Doctoris, & huius Ecclesie Cathedralis Residentarij qui obiit tertio die mens. Augusti, 1498. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Nunc Christe te petimus, Miserere quesumus, qui venisti redimere perditos, noli damnare redemptos. john Colet Deane of this Church. In memoriam venerabilis viri johannis Coleti sacre Theologiae Doctoris; ad Dinum Paulum Decani, & Scholae ibidem fundatoris. Inclyta Ioannes Londini gloria gentis Is tibi qui quondam Paul Decanus erat. Qui toties magno resonabat pectore Christum, Doctor & interpres fidus Euangelij. Qui mores hominum multum sermone diserto Formarat, vitae sed probitate magis. Quique scholam struxit celebrem cognomine Ihesu; Hac dormit tectus membra Coletus humo. Floruit sub Henrico 7. & Hen. 8. Regibus, obijt Ann. Dom. 1519. Disce mori mundo, vinere disce Deo. Under his lively portraiture, alluding to his artificial Askelliton these words. Istuc recidit gloria carnis. Love and live. His Monument is lately revived by the Company of the mystery of Mercers, to whose charge he committed the oversight of S. Paul's School, with lands worth an hundred and twenty pounds or better, of yearly value: for the maintenance of a Master, an Usher, and a Chaplain; to teach and instruct one hundred fifty and three poor men's children freely, without any reward. And (as I am told) Vijs & modis, more comes to the Schoolmaster at this day, than the whole endowment. john Bale saith, Cent. 5. that of twenty and two children which his father Henry Collet (Mercer, and Lord Mayor of London) had by Christian his wife, he was the only child living at his father's death▪ that he died of the sweeting sickness, aged sixty three years: that he was brought up in Oxford, that he traveled into France and Italy; that he disputed with the Sorbonists in Paris, from whose Tenets he much dissented; that he invayed against Monks which did not lead an evangelical life; and Bishops, Qui pro Pastoribus lupos agebant: that he was erudition facundus; that he writ many Treatises left in loose papers, which, but by himself, could not be made perfect: That he taught in his Sermons that it was unlawful for a Clergyman to accumulate riches, and for any man to worship Images: that by Richard Fitz-Iames, than Bishop of London, and two Minorites, Bricot and Standish, he was accused of heresy, and that his corpse had been cast out of his Tomb and burnt, if an unexpected accident had not prevented his enemy's designs. Gulielmo Lilio Paulinae Scholae olim perceptorio primario & Agnetae Coniugi, in sacratissimo huius templi Coemiterio, William Li●● the first Master of Paul● School. hinc a tergo nunc destructo consepultis: Georgius Lillius huius Ecclesie canonicus Parentum memoriae pie consulens Tabellam hanc ab amicis conseruatam hic reponendam curavit. Obijt ille G. L. Ann. Dom. 1522. V. Calend. Mart. vixit annos 54. This man, Bale Cent. 5. integer vitae scelerisque purus, as Bale saith, lived for a certain time in the Isle of Rhodes, and some years in Italy, where he instructed himself in all good literature, and made himself perfect in many languages: withal he was quick, apprehensive, and ingenious: and therefore entirely beloved of Sir Thomas Moor. He writ diverse books, but he is best known by his Grammar. He was borne in the Town of Odiham in Hampshire. The Epitaph of Agnes, the wife of William Lily, as I found it in the Collections of Master Camden. Hagnes hic iaceo coniux olim Gulielmi Lilia cognomen cui tribuere, fui. Septem ter denos aetas mea viderat annos, Bis septem vixi, tres quoque iuncta viro: Mater eram foelix ter quinque prole, puellae Sex fuerant numero, caetera turba mares. Me luce octava mensis Sextilis adorta est, Me luce undecima sustulit atra lues: Aeterne us pateat Lector mihi lumina lucis, Authorem lucis supplice ment roga. Tho. Linak●r physician, and his vale. Thomas Linacrus Regis Henrici viii Medicus: vir et Grecè et Latine atque in re medica longe eruditissimus: multos aetate sua languentes, et qui iam animam desponderant, vitae restituit. Multa Galeni opera Latina lingua mira et singulari facundia vertit▪ Egregium opus de emendata structura Latini sermonis, amicorum rogatu paulo ante mortem edidit. Medicine studiosis Oxoniae publicas lectiones duas, Cantabrigiae unam in perpetuum stabilivit: In hac urbe Collegium Medicorum sua industria fieri curavit. Cuius et Praesidens primus electus est; Frauds dolosque mirè perosus, fidus amicis, omnibus ordinibus iuxta charus: aliquot annos antequam obierit Presbiter factus: plenus annis ex hac vita migravit, multum desideratus. Ann. Dom. 1524. die 7. Octob. Somewhat above the Tomb, in the wall, under the picture or portraiture of the Phoenix, this Inscription. Vivit post funera virtus. Thomae Linacro clarissimo medico johannes Caius posuit, ann. 1557. This old Physician, and young Priest, Tho. Linaker, borne in the town of Derby; was (like William Lily) for none of his works so famous, as for his rudiments or instructions, to the better understanding of the Latin tongue. Tho. de Ewer Deane of Pauli. Hic infra iacet corpus magistri Thome de Eure, Legum Doctoris, istius Ecclesie, S. Pauli quondam Decani, qui die nono mens. Octobris. Ann. Dom. millesimo quadringentesimo, & sui Decanatus anno duodecimo diem suum clausit extremum. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. Tho. Wynterburne Deane of Paul's▪ Hic iacet Magister Thomas Wynterburne Legum Doctor, dum vixit Decanus huius Ecclesie S. Pauli, qui obijt 7. die mens. Decemb. An. Dom. 1478. Anime cuius sis Deus propitius. Amen. Reymund Pilgrim. Canon. Hic iacet Magister Reymundus Pelegrim Canonicus huius Ecclesie, & Capellanus Commissalis Domini Pape, qui obijt xi die mens. Aug. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. Rich. Ple●●ys Canon. Hic iacet Magister Richardus Plessys quondam Can ......... ob. M. CCC. LX.I. William Harington, Secretary Apostolical. Gulielmus Harington jurisconsultus, Protonotarius Apostolicus D. Pauli Canonicus, ex illis quos Residentiarios dicunt: Patria Eboracensis natus, in Pago qui Estryngton vocitatur. Patre Gulielmo Haringtono viro claro genere orto in pago commerlandie non ignobili, qui Neubyging nuncupatur: & Matre Iohanna filia Gulielmi Haske aliter Balivi dicti viri generosi in eodem pago Estryngton nata. Memor exitus vite, qui omnibus horis impendet, hoc sibi sepulchrum posuit. Anno salutis humane. 1523. Here lieth buried in a Chapel built by himself, wherein he founded three Chaplains, Sir john Poultney, Si● 〈…〉 Lord 〈◊〉 four times Lord Mayor of London: who founded also a College in the Parish Church of S. Laurence, called Poultney. He built also the parish Church, called little Alhallows in Thames street; and the Carmelite Friars Church in Coventrie: he gave relief to the prisoners in Newgate, and in the Fleet, and ten shillings the year to S. Giles Hospital by Oldborne (now Houlborne) for ever: and other Legacies too long to rehearse. And died in the year 1348. Here lieth Hamond Chickwell Pepperer, . who had been Lord Mayor of this City, six times within nine years. And died about the year 1328. Here lieth the body of Anne, daughter of john, Duke of Burgundy, the wife of john Plantagenet, third son of king Henry the fourth, Duke of Bedford, Protector of the Realm of England, and head of the common weal. Who died the year 1433. Here in a Monument, broken all a pieces, lieth entombed the body of john Nevil, Lord Latimer: whose widow Katherine Parr, daughter of Sir Thomas Parr of Kendal, and sister to William Lord Parr, marquis of Northampton; was the sixth and last wife to king Henry the eight. He died in the year 1542. Sir john Beauchampe, Constable of Dover Castle, Warden of the Cinque Ports, knight of the Garter, and Lord Admiral of England, the second son of Guy Beauchampe, Earl of Warwick; lieth buried here in the body of the Church, within a little Chapel. He died Ann. 1360. 34. Ed. 3. He was also Constable of the Tower of London, as appears by ancient Records. Cum Rex nuper concesserit johanni Darcy de Knayth custodiam Turris London ad vitam suam, In Arch. Turr●● Lond. et idem Iohannes propter alia negotia intendere non possit eidem custodire; ex Regis assensu concessit custodiam predictam johanni de Bellocampo de Warwic. ad totam vitam predicti johannis Darcy etc. T. R. apud Mortelake 15. Marcijs, Ann. 26. Ed. 3.1. Pars. pat. M. 17. Upon some displeasure (upon false suggestions) which the King had taken against him, he was put by this office, and to the same (the truth being tried) restored again a little before his death. For proof. Cum johan. Darcy cui nuper Rex custodian Turris London ad totam vita svam concesserit; In Arch. Turris Lond. ob affectionem quam habuit ad personam joh. de Bellocampo de Warwick, statum quem idem joh. Darcy in custodia Turris predicte habuit, prefato joh. de Bellocampo concesserit; et Rex illam concessionem confirmavit; post modumque ob quendam rancorem quem Rex erga ipsum joh. de Bellocampo ex sinistra suggestione ipsi Regi facta concepisset; ipsum de custodia illa amoveri fecit, et ●andem custodiam primo Bartholomeo de Burghesse, & postmodum Roberto de Morle concessisset; jamque ijdem Bartholomeus et Robertus viam vniuerse carnis ingressi sunt. Rex ad gratum et laudabile obsequium si●i per dictum johannem diversimodo impensum, et ad hoc quod suggestio predicta minus vera existit, sicut plenius Regi constat, consideracionem habens, ac volens ipsius proinde honori & commodo prospicere in hac parte, ●undem johannem ad dictam custodiam restituit, habendam ad totam vitam suam. Dat. apud Villam Sancti Georgij iuxta Castrum de Beauford in Francia. An. 34. Ed. 3. This deceased Nobleman (saith Stow) by ignorant people, Survey. hath been erroneously mistearmed, and said to be Duke Humphrey, the good Duke of Gloucester; who lieth honourably buried at S. Alban in Hertfordshire. In Idle and frivolous opinion of whom, some men of late times, saith he, have made a solemn meeting at his Tomb, upon Saint Andrew's day in the morning, and concluded on a breakfast, or dinner, as assuming themselves to be servants, and to hold diversity of Offices, under the said Duke Humphrey. On the South side of the same Tomb, is this Inscription in brass. Rich. Piriton Archdeacon of Colchester. Hic iacet Dominus Richardus de Piriton, quondam Archidiaconus Colcestrie, Canonicus et stagiarius huius Ecclesie, qui obijt 26. Aug. Ann. Dom. 1387. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. Upon the wall over the little door that entereth out of Paul's into Saint Faith's Church, is the image of jesus, curiously painted, as also the portraiture of a Lady kneeling in her mantle of Arms, with some of her progeny. These words thereupon being most artificially penciled. jesus our God and Saviour, To us and ours be governor. Which imagery or representation was made to the memory of Margaret Countess of Shrewsbury, who lieth buried in a Chapel within that door dedicated to the name of jesus, with this Inscription, which not long since was there to be read upon a pillar. Margaret Countess of Shrewsbury. Here, before the Image of jesus, lieth the worshipful and right noble Lady, Margaret, Countess of Shrewsbury, late wife of the true and victorious knight, and redoubtable warrior, john Talbot Earl of Shrewsbury: which worshipful man died in Guien, for the right of this Land. She was the first daughter, and one of the heirs of the right famous and renowned knight, Richard Beauchamp, late Earl of Warwick (which died in Rouen) and of Dame Elizabeth his wife. The which Elizabeth was daughter and heir to Thomas, late Lord Berkeley, on his side, and on her mother's side, Lady Lisle and Ties. Which Countess passed from this world the foureteenth day of june, in the year of our Lord, 1468. On whose soul jesus have mercy. Amen. I have seen a stone in the body of this Church thus inscribed, without any name; yet Arms were upon the Monument. Non hominem aspiciam ultra. Oblivio. This man yet willingly (saith learned Camden) would not have been forgotten, R●maines. when he adjoined his Arms to continue his memory; not unlike to Philosophers which prefixed their names before their Treatises of contemning glory. Another, in the North Cloister now ruinated, without name, had this Inscription upon his Grave-stone: Vixi, peccavi, penitui, Nature cessi. Which was as Christian (saith the same Author) as that was profane of the Roman: romans. Amici Dum vivimus Vivamus. I have read these rhymes following, engraven in brass, upon a marblestone, in the body of the Church, now stolen away. Istuc qui graderis paulum te sistere queso Et rogitans quid eris in me, nunc vermibus eso. Esto memor mortis, meditare frequenter jova: Mors latet in portis, non est evitabilis hora. Effundens loculos, pro Christo despice mundum. Clarificans oculos, ut cernas quo sit eundum. Nam quod quisque serit presentis tempore vite, Hoc sibi messis erit, cum dicitur, ite venite. The sleight regard of the house of God, was a main cause of this kingdom's subversion, as I have showed before upon the Epitaph of king Etheldred; and it hath ever been, and more especially is in these our times, an use for beastly and unclean persons, to pollute and bedaub the doors and walls of the place where God is to be worshipped, with piss, or some other more nasty excrements; against the like irreverence to this goodly consecrated Edifice of Saint Paul, diverse prohibitions upon certain penalties have been, and are daily, published in print, and pasted up in ●●iuers places, in and about the Church. And anciently this Atheistical uncleanness (if I may so call it) was forbidden by a verse depicted at every door of this Church; some part of which at the great South door is yet re●●●ning, which in my time might perfectly be read. Thus it runs. Hic Locus his sacer est, hic nulli mingere fas est. This house is holy here: unlawful ti's For any one, here on her walls to piss. And strict orders were likewise published against Beggars, and bearers of burdens, in and thorough the Church: of the later sort these four lines were sometimes fixed to a pillar, over an iron box for the poor. All those that shall enter within the Church door, With burden or basket, must give to the poor. And if there be any ask what they must pay, To this Box a penny, ere they pass away. It could be wished, that walking in the middle Isle of Paul's might be forborn in the time of Divine service. Richard the second, The foundation 〈…〉 Pe●●y Canons. king of England, Ann. Reg. 8. made the petty Canons here twelve in number, a College, or fellowship daily to meet and diet together in one Hall; whereas for a long time before they lived dispersedly, and could not be so ready to serve the most Highest in their holy exercises. He appointed one john Linton for the first Warden of this College, and gave unto the said Warden and Canons of the foresaid Fellowship, certain lands here in London for their further endowment, and the supporting of divine service. Charging them by his Charter to pray for his prosperous estate living, and for his soul's health when he should depart this world: and for the soul of Anne his wife, Queen of England: and for the souls of his and her progenitors, parents, and ancestors, and of all the faithful people deceased. Polyol. 1. Song. ●●land. ad Cyg. Cant. Howsoever the Story of Brute be denied by some learned Authors, or not permitted but by conjecture; as Selden hath it in his Illustrations upon this verse of Michael Drayton, which now the envious world doth slander for a dream. Yet because I find him, in our Annals, to have been buried here in this City, of his own foundation, as both by reason and authority it is strongly argued by a most judicious Antiquary of the last age; I think it not amiss to speak somewhat of him (especially) in this place, as the truth of the story is generally received. Brute King of great Britain. Brute (the son of Siluius, the son of Ascanius, who was the son of Aeneas the warlike Trojan) being delivered from the long captivity under the Grecians, with his wife Innogen and his people, departed from the coasts of Greece, and arrived in an Island, where they consulted with an Oracle, sacred to Diana. Brute himself kneeling before the Idol, and holding in his right hand a bowl prepared for sacrifice full of wine, & the blood of a white Hind; made his imprecation to the Goddess to this effect in English. Gildas Cambrius Thou Goddess that dost rule the woods and forests green, And chastest foaming boars that fly thine awful sight: Thou that mayest pass aloft in airy skies so sheen; And walk eke under earth in places void of light: Discover earthly states, direct our course aright, And show where we shall dwell, according to thy will, In seats of sure abode, where Temples we may dight For Virgins that shall sound thy land with voices shrill. After this prayer and ceremony done, according to the Pagan rite and custom, Brute abiding his answer, fell asleep: in which sleep appeared to him the said Goddess uttering this answer. Brute, far by West beyond the Gallike land is found An Isle, which with the ocean seas enclosed is about. Where Giants dwelled sometime, but now is desert ground, Most meet where thou mayest plant thyself with all thy rout. Make thitherwards with speed; for there thou shalt find out An ever-during seat, and Troy shall rise anew, Unto thy race, of whom shall kings be borne, no doubt, That with their mighty power the world shall whole subdue. Brute was no sooner awaked then that he related this his dream or vision to such of his company, as he thought requisite to be acquainted with such a matter of importance; after great rejoicing and ceremonious thanksgiving, they jointly resolved to seek out this fortunate Island, and so returned to their ships, with great joy and gladness, as men put in comfort to find out the wished seats for their firm and sure habitations, prophesied and promised unto them by the Oracle; not long after Per varios casus per tot discrimina rerum. Passing through many dangers, by sea, by land, amongst strangers: They landed at Totnes in Devonshire, about the year of the world, 2855. and before Christ's nativity, 1108. Of which M. Drayton Polyol. Song. 1. my Britaine-sounding Brute; when with his puissant fleet At Totnesse first he touched. Brute having taken a view of this Island, and destroyed all such as stood against him, commanded that the Isle should be called Brutaine (which before was called Albion, peopled with giants) and the inhabitants thereof Britain's, or Britons, allusively after his own name. Within a short time after his arrival, he laid the foundation of a City, which he named Troynovant, or new Troy (now London) upon a plot of ground lying on the North side of the river of Thames, which he built in remembrance of that noble City of Troy, from whence he and his people were descended, as also to be the seat Royal, and chief Chamber of his imperial kingdom. He also built a Temple to the honour of his Pagan Gods and Goddesses. Which stood (by conjecture) in the same place where now this Cathedral Church of Saint Paul is erected: in which idolatrous Archflamen he bequeathed his body to be buried. Here in his new City, when he had established certain laws, teaching his people to live after a civil order and fashion; also to build towns and villages, to worship the Gods, to till and plow the earth, to wear apparel, to anoint and trim their bodies: and to be short, to live after an humane manner, and had holden the regiment of this kingdom right nobly the space of twenty and four years, he departed the world. Having parted his dominions into three parts, amongst his three sons, Locrine, Camber, and Albanact: with condition, that the two younger brethren should hold of the eldest, and to him do homage and fealty. Brute took ship and arrived in Albion; Hard. in vi●. Bruti. Where Diane said, should been his habitation; And when he came the coasts of it upon, He was full glad, and made great exultation. And afterwards upon the alteration of the name of Albion, the building of London, the establishing of his laws, the division of his Empire, as also of his death and burial, the same Author hath these verses. This Brutus, thus was king in regalite, And after his name, he called this Isle Briteyn; And all his men by that same egalite He called Briteynes, as chroniclers all sane. So was the name, of this ilke Albion, All set on side, in Kalandes of a change, And put away with great confusion, And Briteyn hight; so forth by new exchange After Brutus. The city great of Troynovaunt so fair He builded then on Thamies for his delight Unto the North for his dwelling, and for his most repair Which is to say in our language perfect New Troy. In which throughout his peace and law he set, Which been the flowers of all regalite; With out which, but if they two be met, There may no Prince hold principalite, Ne endure long in worthy dignity. For if those two be nought upholden than; What is a king more worth than his liege man. This king Brute kept well this Isle in peace; And set his laws of Troy with orders, rites, And consuetudes, that might the land increase, Such as in Troy was most profits, Unto the folk, and the common profits. He made them written for long rememory, To rule the Isle by them perpetually. His men he did reward full royally With lands and rents, that with him suffered pain▪ And Troynovaunt he made full specially An Archflaume, his sea Cathedral certain, A Temple thereof Apolyne to obtain By Trojan law of all such dignity As Archbishop hath now in his degree. This king Brutus made people fast to till The land about, in places both far and ne'er; And sow with seed, and get them corn full weal, To live upon, and have the sustenance clear, And so in fields both far and ne'er; By his wisdom, and his sapience, He set the land in all suffycience: And as the fate of death doth assign That needs he must his ghost away relees To his goddas diane he did resign His corpse to be buried withouten lees In the Temple of Apolline, to increase His soul among the gods everychone After his merits tronized high in throne. It is said (saith Sir Edward Coke to the Reader of the third part of his Reports) that Brutus the first king of this land, as soon as he had settled himself in his kingdom, for the safe and peaceable government of his people, wrote a book in the Greek tongue, call it, The Laws of the Britanes: and he collected the same out of the Laws of the Trojans. Brute died after the Creation, 2806. years, before the Incarnation, 1103. Samuel then judge of Israel. Robert of Gloucester, my old Mss. hath these rhymes touching some passages in this History of Brute. Brute wend * forth. fory in * ●he. ye land, and espied up and down For to seche a fair plas to make * an hau●●. ●owne. an heved town. He come and fond upe Temese a place fair enough, A good country and plenteous, and * thither▪ yuder his heart drough: Yat ships out of each land might bring good iwies; * there. Yer he rerd his chief town yat London cleped ys, Yet so ne cleped he it nought, but for honour and joy Yat he from Troie comen was, he cleped it new Troy. Bruit yis ilke noble Prince, Sons had three By his wyff Ignogent, noble men and free: Locryn, and Camber, and Albanack also. Atte last died Brut. You this was ydo Aftur yat he come into Engelond ye xxiiii year: I buried he was at London yat he let furst arere. Thus much of king Brute, as the brute of him goes, and as the vulgar received opinion is, the main points of his story being brought into question by many of our learned authentical writers. The Conqueror William brought with him from Roan in Normandy certain jews, The body of a boy found in Saint B●n●is Churchyard by Paul's Wharf, enshrined afterwards in this Church, who was martyred by the jews. Stow. Annal. whose posterity here inhabiting within the prime Cities of the kingdom, did use sometimes to steal away, circumcise, crown with thorns, whip, torture, and crucify some one of their neighbours male children, in mockery, despite, scorn, and derision of our Lord and Saviour jesus Christ, crucified by the jews in jerusalem. In the year 1235. the 19 of Hen. the third, seven jews were brought before the king at Westminster, which at Norwich had stolen a boy, and kept him from the sight of Christian people, for the space of one whole year, and had circumcised him, minding also to have crucified him at the solemnity of Easter, as themselves confessed before the king; whereof they were convicted, their bodies and goods remaining at the king's pleasure. In the 39 of the said kings reign, upon the 22. day of November; one hundred and two jews were brought from Lincoln to Westminster, and there accused, for the crucifying of a child of eight years old, named Hugh: these jews were upon examination sent to the Tower: the murder came out by the diligent search made by the mother of the child; eighteen of them were hanged; the other remained long in prison. In the seventh of Ed. the first, the jews at Northampton crucified a Christian boy upon Goodfriday, but did not throughly kill him. For the which fact many jews at London after Easter, were drawn at horse tails and hanged. Not long after this, to wit, in the eighteenth year of this king's reign, all the jews were banished out of England, the number of which so expulsed, was fifteen thousand and threescore persons; to whom was given no more money, but only to bear their charges, until they were out of the kingdom. The rest, both goods and lands, was seized upon for the King's use. But to return back again to the story of the martyred boy, in derogation and despite of Christian Religion. 〈◊〉. Paris. 〈◊〉. codem. Upon the day of the Kalends of August, 1223. Ann. Reg. Hen. 3: the body of a young boy, in the Churchyard of S. Benet at Pauleswharfe, was found buried, under whose paps certain Hebrew letters were inscribed: upon his body diverse prints, marks, cuts, and rents, caused by rods and whipcords, besides many other signs of various torments, by the said boy sustained, were easy to be discerned. The name of the boy was found out by those Characters; and withal, how that he was sold by his Christian parents: but by whom, or to which of the jews he was sold, or to what end, could never be known. Howsoever it was concluded, that the buyers of the boy intended to have had him crucified. Yet crucified he was not; in regard no print of the nails, either in his hands or feet, or any wound in his side appeared. Many miracles were said to be wrought at the grave, and by the relics of this young innocent Martyr. Whereupon the Canons of Saint Paul's Church, took forcibly away the sacred remains of this holy Martyr, out of the said Churchyard, and solemnly enshrined them in their own Church, not far from the high Altar. Pardon Church-yard. Thomas More Dean of Paul's On the North side of this Church was sometime a great Cloister, environing a plot of ground, called, Pardon Churchyard, whereof Thomas More, Deane of Paul's, was either the first builder, or an especial benefactor, and was therein buried. In this Cloister were buried many persons; some of worship, and some of honour. The Monuments of whom (saith Stow in his survey of London) in number and curious workmanship, passed all other that were in the great Church. About the Cloister, was artificially and richly painted the dance of Death, Dance of Paul's commonly called, the dance of Paul's, the Picture of death leading all estates▪ Chapel in Pard● Church yard. Gilbert Becket Portgrave of London In the midst of this Pardon Church-yard, was a fair Chapel, first founded by Gilbert Becket (Portgrave and principal Magistrate (as now the Lord Maior is) of this City, father of Tho. Becket the Martyr, Archbishop of Canterbury) who was therein buried; in the reign of King Stephen. Thomas More Dean of Paul's, before mentioned, re-edified, or new builded this Chapel, and founded three Chaplains there in the reign of Henry the fifth. Stow Sur. in Faring. Ward: In the year 1549. on the tenth of April, the said Chapel, by commandment of Edward Duke of Somerset, Lord Protector, was begun to be pulled down, with the whole Cloister, the Tombs and Monuments: so that nothing of them was left, but the bare plot of ground, which is since converted into a garden, for the Petty Canons. There was a Chapel at the North door of Paul's, founded by Walter Sherington, Chapel at the North door of Paul●. Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, by licence of King Henry the sixth, for two, three, or four Chaplains, endowed with forty pound by the year. This Chapel was also pulled down, in the reign of Edward the sixth, at the commandment of the said Protector; and in place thereof an house builded. There was on the North side of Paul's Churchyard, Charnell-house with our Lady's Chapel. a large charnell-house for the bones of the dead, and over it a Chapel, founded upon this occasion as followeth. In the year 1282. the tenth of Edward the first, it was agreed, that Henry Walleis, Maior, and the Citizens, for the cause of Shops by them builded, without the wall of the Churchyard, should assign to God, and to the Church of Saint Paul, ten Marks of rent by the year for ever, towards the new building of a Chapel of the blessed Virgin Mary, and also to assign five Marks of yearly rent to a Chaplain to celebrate there. And in the year 1430. the 8. of Henry the sixth, licence was granted to jenken Carpenter, Town-clerk of London (Executor to Richard Whittington) to establish upon the said Charnel, a Chaplain to have eight Marks by the year. There was also in this Chapel two Brotherhoods. Sir Henry Barton knight (the son of Henry Barton of Mildenhall in Suffolcke) Lord Mayor of London, Sir Hen. Barton Sir George Mirfin knights Rob Barton in the year 1427. Robert Barton, and Sir Thomas Mirfin knight (son to George Mirfin of Ely in Cambridgeshire) Lord Mayor of this City, the year 1518. were entombed with their portraitures of Alabaster over them, grated, or coped about with iron, before the said Chapel; all which with many other Tombs ann Monuments of the dead, were pulled down, together with the said Chapel; at the commandment likewise of the forenamed Duke of Somerset. The bones of the dead couched up in the Charnell-house, under the Chapel, were conveyed from thence into Finsbery field, amounting to more than a thousand cart load (saith Stow) and there laid on a moorish ground; in short space after raised, by soilage of the City upon them, to bear three Mills. The Chapel and charnell-house were converted to dwelling houses, warehouses, and sheds before them for Stationers in place of the Tombs. Near unto this Chapel was a bell house with four Bells, Bellhouse in Paul's Churchyard. the greatest in London, they were called jesus Bells, and belonged to jesus Chapel, the same had a great spire of timber, covered with lead, with the image of Saint Paul on the top; which was pulled down by Sir Miles Partridge knight, in the reign of Henry the eight. The common speech than was (saith Stow) that this Sir Miles Partridge did set an hundred pound upon a cast at dice against it, and so won the said Bellhouse and Bells of the King: and then caused the Bells to be broken as they hung, and the rest pulled down. This Sir Miles was hanged on the Tower-hill the 26. of February, in the sixth year of Edward the sixth, for matters concerning the Duke of Somerset: howsoever guiltless of any offence, either against the king, or his Council, as he took it upon his death. There was a fair Chapel of the holy Ghost, on the North side of Paul's Church, Holmes College. founded in the year 1400. by Roger Holmes, Chancellor and Prebendary of Paul's, for seven Chaplains, and called Holmes College. Their common Hall was in Paul's Churchyard on the South side. This College was suppressed in the reign of Ed. the sixth. In this Chapel were buried Adam de Bury, Alderman, and Lord Mayor of London, Adam de Bury Lord Maior Anne Duchess of Bedford. in the year 1364. Anne, the daughter of john, Duke of Burgundy, the first wife of john Plantagenet (third son of king Henry the fourth) Duke of Bedford, who died in the year 1433. Poultneys' Chapel. Sir john Poultney knight, four times Mayor of London, in the year 1337. builded a fair Chapel on the North side of Paul's Church; wherein he was buried. He founded a College in the Parish Church of Saint Laurence, Sir john Poultney. called Poultney. He builded the Parish Church of little All-hallows in Thames street, and the Carmelite Friars Church in Coventrey. He gave relief in Newgate, and in the Fleet; and ten shillings a year to Saint Giles Hospital by Oldborne for ever. And other Legacies (saith Stow, speaking of the Honour of Citizens) too long to rehearse. He died about the year 1348 But of him I have spoken somewhat before. Under the Choir of Paul's, is a large Chapel, dedicated to the name of jesus, jesus Chapel. by whom founded I do not know. But it was thus confirmed in the 37. of Hen. the sixth, as appear by his patent thereof, dated at Crowdowne to this effect. Sir Alan Boxhul knight of the Garter. Many liege-men, and Christian people, having begun a Fraternity, and Guild, to the honour of the most glorious name of jesus Christ our Saviour, in a place called the Crowds of the Cathedral Church of Paul's in London, which hath continued long time peaceably, till now of late. Whereupon they have made request, and we have taken upon us the name and charge of the foundation, to the land of Almighty God, the Father, the Son, and the holy Ghost, and especially to the honour of jesus, in whose honour the Fraternity was begun, etc. It was likewise confirmed by Hen. the 7. the 22. of his reign, and by H. 8. the 27. of his reign. In this Chapel lieth buried, Margaret the eldest daughter and coheir of Richard Beauchampe, Earl of Warwick, second wife of john, Lord Talbot (the Terror of France) first of that Surname, Earl of Shrewsbury: But of her I have spoken before. Many have been here interred, as john of London, under the Northroode, 1266. john Lovel; john of Saint Olave, and Sir Allen Boxhul; with others, as you may read in the Survey of London. This Sir Allen Boxhul was knight of the Garter, in Edward the thirds days, and near upon the first foundation of that honourable order. He was Constable of the Tower, custos of the Forest, and Park of Clarendon, the Forest of Brokholt, Grovel, and Melchet, a man highly in favour with the said king Edward. He was buried by Saint Erkenwalds' shrine; about the year 1380. And here I think it will not be unfitting to set down the number of the Shrines sacred to the honour of diverse Saints in the Cathedral Church, as they stood in the year 1245. Shrines in S. Paul's. Ex. Mss. in bib. Cot. First, the Shrine of S. Erkenwald, which was very sumptuous, the fourth Bishop of this See, which stood in the East part of the Church above the high Altar. The Shrine of S. Mellitus, first Bishop of this Diocese, afterwards of Canterbury. The Shrine of Richard Fitz-Neile, Bishop of London, Ann. 1189. The Shrine of Egwolphe, or Egtulphe here Bishop, all beset with precious stones, he was the seventh Bishop of this Diocese, as then called Bishop of the East Angles. He was a learned man, and so showed himself in the Convocation holden by Cuthbert, Archbishop of Canterbury, Ann. 747. There was also a glorious Shrine, super magnum Altar, but to whose holiness dedicated I do not read. Here sometimes was a Shrine, with a portable coffin, in the same place where Sir William Cockaines Tomb is erected; with an Altar, built to the honour of God, the blessed Virgin, S. Laurence, and all Saints; by one Roger Waltham, Precentour of the Church, as did appear by this Inscription following, which was legible, though somewhat erazed, before the erection of the foresaid Monument. Hoc Altare in honore Dei, & beat Virgins Marie Matris eius, ac Sancti Laurentij Martyris, & omnium Sanctorum construxit, & hanc Voltam cum adiacentibus picturis Martyris et Ymaginum in Septis ereis hic posuit: & cum duabus Caglarijs suis per perpetuum .... Dominus Rogerus Waltham, huius Ecclesie Precent ........ pro salute anime sue, et pro salute anime Regine ...... & omnium ........ Amen. There was likewise a chantry with an Altar sacred to the blessed Virgin Mary, contiguous to the Bishop's palace, and the body of the Church, founded by Sir Gerard Braybroke knight, Edmund Hamden, john Boys, Esquires, and Roger Albrighton, Clerk: for one chantry Priest daily to say Mass, and pray for the soul of Robert Braybroke, Bishop of London, then living, and for his soul whensoever he should pass out of this world. For ●he soul of Nicholas Braybroke, late Canon of this Church: and for the souls of all the faithful departed. As may appear by these Deeds following, copied out of the originals, under seal, in the custody of Sir Simonds Dewes, knight. Omnibus Christi fidelibus ad quos presens scriptum pervenerit. Gerardus Braybrok junior Miles, Edmundus Hampden Armig. johannes Boys Armiger, & Rogerus Albryghton Clericus, salutem in Domino sempiternam. Noverit universitas vestra quod nos Gerardus, Edmundus, johannes & Rogerus predict. de licentia speciali, excellentissimi Principis, & Domini nostri, Domini Henrici Dei gratia Regis Anglie, et Francie, ac Domini Hibernie illustris, per suas literas patentes, Sigillo suo magno in cera viridi impressato sigillatas pro se et heredibus suis nobis data et concessa unam Cantariam de uno Capellano divina ad Altar beat Marie infra Palacium, Episcopi Londonien in London navi Ecclesie Sancti Pauli contiguam, pro salubri statu venerabilis in Christo Patris, ac Domini, Domini Roberti Dei gratia Episcopi Londonien. dum vixerit, et pro anima sua cum ab hac luce migraverit, ac anima Magistri Nicholai Braybrok nuper Canonici Ecclesie Pauli London, nec non animabus omnium fidelium defunctorum singulis diebus, iuxta ordinacionem ipsius Episcopi in hac parte faciendam celebraturo imperpetuum, fundamus, facimus et stabilimus iuxta vim formam et effectum licency regie antedicte, volentes insuper dictam Cantariam ad debitum effectum perducere, ac literis regijs antedictis debite obtemperare, ut tenemur ordinacioni et statutis venerabilis in Christo Patris ac Domini Roberti Episcopi Londonien. predicti de et super Cantaria huiusmodi et modo eidem deseruien●i, Cantariamque ipsam post primam vacacionem eiusdem imperpetuum libere con●erendi, capellanum que perpetuum eiusdem Cantarie et in ea instituendi & inducendi per eundem venerabilem Patrem Episcopium antedictum in hac parte faciend. pure sponte simpliciter libere et absolute in alto & in basso nos submittimus, et quilibet nostrum se submittit per presents. promittentes nos & quilibet nostrum pro nobis & heredibus nostris ratum gratum & firmum perpetuo habeatur totum & quicquid per dictum venerabilem Patrem, ordinari statui et fieri contigerit in premissis. In quorum omnium testimonium sigilla nostra presentibus opposuimus. Dat. primo die Mensis Maij, An. Dom. Millesimo quadring entesimo quarto. Et regni Regis Henrici quarti post Conquestum quinto. Then follows their first presentation to this chantry, in these words. Reverendo in Christo Patri, ac Domino Domino Roberto Dei gratia Londonien. Episcopo, vestri humiles & devoti Gerardus Braybrok junior Miles, Edmundus Hamden Armig. johannes Boys Armig. et Rogerus Albryghton Clericus, omnimodas reverencias tanto Patri debitas cum honore. Ad Cantariam de uno Capellano divina ad Altar beat Marie infra Palacium Episcopi Londonien. in London navi Ecclesie Sancti Pauli London continguam, pro salubri statu vestro, pater reverend, dum vixeritis, & pro anima vestra cum ab hac luce migraveritis, ac anima Magistri Nich. Braybrok nuper Canonici Sancti Pauli London, nec non animabus omnium fidelium defunctorum singulis diebus iuxta ordinacionem vestram in hac parte faciendam celebraturo imperpetuum per nos de licentia speciali excellentissimi Principis & Domini nostri Domini Henrici Dei gratia Regis Angl. et Francie, et Domini Hibernie illustris, per suas literas patentes sigillo suo magno in cera viridi impressato sigillatas pro se & heredibus suis nobis. Dat. & concessa, iam noviter fundatam factam et stabilitam, Dilectum nobis in Christo Dominum Thomam Kyng Capellanum vestre Londonien. Dioc. P. V. reverend presentamus. Supplicantes humiliter et deuote quatenus ipsum Thomam ad Cantariam predictam admittere, et Capellanum perpetuum in eadem instituere; ceteraque peragere dignemini generose que vestro in hac parte incumbunt officio Pastorali. In cuius rei testimonium sigilla nostra presentibus apposuimus. Dat. London. quinto die Mensis julij, Ann▪ Dom. Millesimo quadringentesimo quarto. I gather by the premises, howsoever I may be mistaken, I confess, that the Court of Delegates is kept at this day, in the very place of the old chantry. Many Chantries, Chapels, Oratories, Altars and Shrines, more than I have notice of, were erected, honoured and founded within the spacious vast Fabric of this Episcopal Chair: the beauty whereof is so magnificent (saith Malmesbury) that it deserveth to be numbered in the rank of most excellent Edifices. Camd. in Mid. It containeth in length six hundred and ninety foot; the breadth thereof is one hundred and thirty foot; the height of the West arched roof from the ground, carrieth an hundred and two foot: and the new Fabric from the ground is fourscore and eight foot high. The stone-worke of the Steeple from the plain ground riseth in height two hundred and threescore foot: and the timber frame upon the same is two hundred seventy four foot high, etc. It was no less than five hundred and four and thirty foot high from the ground, before that in the year of our Lord, 1087. it was set on fire with lightning, and burnt with a great part of the City. Nostre Dame, the Cathedral Church in Paris, is much spoken of for her magnitude, whose dimensions are there engraven to show the greatness thereof, in these verses following. Si tu veux scavoir comme est ample De Nostre Dame le grand Temple: Il a dans oewre pour le seur; Dix et sept toises de haulteur, Sur la largeur de vingt quatres Et soixante cinq sans rabattre, A de long. Aux tours haut montee● Trente quatre sont bien comptees Le tout fondé sur pilotis, Ainsi uray que ie te le dis. Thus, in effect, in English. If you would know the greatness of the great Church of our Lady, the roof thereof is seventeen fathom high; it is twenty and four fathom broad, sixty and five fathom long; the two Steeples are thirty and four fathom high above the Church, and all founded upon piles. Now I leave it to my Reader (taking a fathom for an Ell) to make the difference betwixt the ample extensure of these two religious structures. Since the building and foundation of this Church and Bishopric of London by King Ethelbert (which is muchwhat about a thousand and twenty six years ago) eighty and nine Bishops have succeeded one another in this Hierarchy or holy governance, which at this day is right worthily ruled, overseen, and guided by the right reverend Father in God, and prudent Statesman, William La●d, one of his Majesty's most honourable privy Council. And thus I will take leave of this sacred Edifice, and make a few steps down into the Parish Church of Saint Faith; commonly called, S. Faiths under Paul's; wherein I do no find any ancient funeral Inscription much remarkable, excepting one engraven upon the marble, which covers the body of one William West, a Canon of Saint Paul's, a Cardinal of the same Church, a good companion, a man universal, affable, and courteous, a Fellow of fair demeanour amongst his Brotherhood, as he is here styled to his great commendation. Now a word or two before I set down his Epitaph, of the title of Cardinal; Which is derived from the Latin word Cardo, the hook or hang of a door: for as the door hangs and depends on the hinges, so the Church on the Cardinals. Or veluti Cardine regitur ostium, ita Ecclesia regitur bono eorum consilio: As the door is ruled by its Hinges, so the Church is governed by their good counsel. They are also accounted, by some, honourable increasers, Dierius & alij. Rulers and preservers of all such matters which conduce to Christian piety, and the defence of the Bishop's power and authority. In the See of Rome, at this day, they have the chiefest charge, and are divided into three orders, that is to say, of Bishops, Priests, and Deacons: not that the Cardinal's Priests be no Bishops, or that the Deacons be not Priests and Bishops, but for that their first institution was such, some to carry the titles of Bishops, others of Priests, and some of Deacons. The Cardinals which are Bishops, sit near unto the Pope, when he doth celebrate Festival days: The Cardinal's Priests assist him when he saith Mass: and the Deacons attire him, and serve him at the Altar. They have there their College, whereof the Pope is head; the number of them hath not been certain in our days: at this time there are about sixty and eight; although we find that in former ages, they were but twelve, after the example of the Apostles: They assemble themselves together once or twice a week, as affairs of importance come to their considerations; and this their assembly is called the Consistory; where they treat (or at least they ought to treat) of all things▪ which belong unto the faith and Religion; to the peace of Christians, and to the preservation of the temporal estate of the Church. I find nothing of Cardinals until the days of Gregory the Great. Quo tempore Episcopi indifferenter Cardinales faciebant, Sir Hen. Spelman. Gloss. li●. C. et Papa Cardinals in Episcopos promovebat. Yet some are of opinion, that the first beginning of Cardinals was in the time of Pontianus the Pope, which was circa Ann. 231. and Marcellus after him, circa Ann. 304. ordained fifteen, or rather twenty five Cardinals in the City of Rome, propter Baptismata et sepulturas hominum. And when as first these Cardinals were instituted in the Roman Church, Pauperculi erant Romae in suis titulis habitantes. They were poor and necessitous, living at Rome in their own titles. And Gregory the Great, in one of his Epistles to Maximian the Bishop of Syracuse, writes the like of the poverty of one Felix, a Deacon Cardinal. For whose sustentation he thus provides. Regist. lib. 3. Epist. 14. Sustentationem eius pietatis intuitu providentes, in tua Ecclesia Syracusana, eum prenidimus cardinandùm, etc. sive ut officium Diaconatus expleat, se certe ut solae eiusdem officij, pro sustentanda paupertate sua, commoda consequatur. Howsoever then, that the Cardinals of Rome at this day do abound in all affluence of riches; and like stately Cedars, look over the smaller sprigs of the Clergy: yet considering the Primitive times, our Cardinals of Saint Paul's are not to be contemned for their mean competency of lively hood: having sufficient to maintain their reverend comportment. Of whom give me leave to speak a little out of the Records of the Church. Cardinals of S. Paul. The Church of Saint Paul had before the time of the Conqueror, two Cardinals, which office still continues. They are chosen by the Dean and Chapter, out of the number of the twelve petty Canons, and are called Cardinals chori: the Cardinals of the Quire. Horum officium est circumspicere quotidie & notare omnia in choro delicta & peccata, 〈…〉 Church. etc. Their office is to take notice of the absence or neglect of all the Choir, and weekly to render account thereof to the Dean and Chapter. High duo etiam Cardinales Ministris Ecclesie & Seruis eorum ●um sanis t●m egrotis Ecclesiastica ministrant Sacramenta. These two Cardinals do minister Ecclesiastical Sacraments to the Ministers of the Church and their servants, as well to the healthful as to the sick. Con●essiones audiant & penitentias iniungant salutares; Mortuos postrem● convenientibus tradunt Sepulturis. They hear Confessions, and appoint comfortable Penance: and lastly they commit the dead to convenient Sepulture. Not any Cathedral Church in England hath Cardinals excepting this, neither do I find any beyond Seas, to be dignified with this title, saving the Churches of Rome, Ravenna, Aquileia, Milan, Pisa, Beneventana, in Italy, and Compostella in Spain. These Cardinals have the best pre-eminence in the Choir, above all, next to the Subdeane, and the best Stalls. But at the length let me descend into Saint Faiths, and to the Grave-stone of my Canon and Cardinal William West. Saint Faith's Church. Hic homo Catholicus Willelmus West tumulatur, William W●st Canon and Cardinal. Pauli Canonicus Minor Ecclesie vocitatur. Qui fuerat Cardinalis, bonus atque sodalis; M. Sexageno, quater & C. ter uno pleno, Augusti denoque die ruit ille sereno. Perpetuis annis memores estote johannis john Good Chan●er of the Bale. Good Succentoris, Cardinalisque minoris. Canonici cuius ope ..... huius. Hic: ... & colitur per & hunc Elemosinatur Distribui Tutor fuit & pueris, que minorum, Collegij custos dum vixit canonicorum. Hinc migrat M.C quater. L.X. que Decembris, eterna. Virgo Dei mater, prestet sibi regna superna. Willelmi Lili seruus Christique minister William Lily. Hic locus est illi fuit artibus ipse magister. M. Domini C quater, semel L. ter & V▪ lege frater X bis cum quinis M. Adar est bonus sibi finis. Saint martin's Ludgate. Our old English writers affirm, Lud King of the Britain's. that Lud King of the Britain's (whom they make to be the repairer or new builder of London) was buried much what about this place, of which these rhymes following. Io. Harding. With Walls fair and Towers fresh about, His city great of Troynovant full fair, Full well he made, and battled throughout. And palace fair for Roialles to appear, Amending other defective and unfair. From London stone to his Now the Bishop of London's house, saith Harding. Palays royal That now Ludgate is known over all. Between London stone and Ludgate forth right, That called was then for his name Ludstone: He made men build, that London then so hight; His Palays fair, than made he then anon, With towers high, both of lime and stone, Beside Ludgate; and his Temple there thereby His God to serve, and him to glorify. When he had reigned by forty year all out He died so; and in his temple fair Entombed was with stories all about. By another Author, more ancient, it is thus expressed. Rob. Glocest. Walls he let make all about, and gates up and down, And after Lud that was his name he cluped it Ludstoun. The heyest yat of ye toun yat yut stant ther and is, He let hit clupie Ludgate, after his own name iwis: He let him though he was ded bury at thulk gate, Theruore yut after him men clupeth it Ludgate. Cadwallo K. of the Britain's. The Britain's record that Cadwallo called the Valiant, King of the Britain's, after he had reigned in great honour the space of 48 years, died in peace the 12 of November, An. 677. and was buried in this place. Whose Image great and terrible, Ge●●●ay Mon. triumphantly riding on horseback, being artificially cast in brass, the Britain's placed here upon Ludgate, to the further fear and terror of the Saxons; the greatness of which King is thus further expressed. Harding. King Cadwall rained full hele again In Britain land, as prime without peer Above English, as Lord Soverayne Over Saxons, Scots, and Peights clear And English also as clear did appear. A little more of this noble King Cadwall, out of my old Author Robert of Gloucester. When Cadewall king of Brutons nobly enough Had regnyd xlviii. yet, toward his death he drogh. He deed after Martin Mass even the sixth day. The Brutons made deel enough though he ded ley, Hii made a Kyngys' tomb, and him all hol with in Upon an horse riding of bras put all with gynne. And upon the west gate of London set hit full hegh, In token of his noblesse that men hit far segh. A Chirch of Scent Martin living he let rear. In which yat men should goddies service do, And sing for his soul, and all Christene also. Farewell my friends, john Benson and Anne his wife. the tide abideth no man, We be departed fro hence, and so ●all ye: But in this passage, the best song that we say can, Is Requiem eternam, now jesus grant hit me, When we have ended all our adversity, Grant us in Paradise to have a mansion, That sh●ed his blood for our redemption▪ Therefore we tendyrlie require ye, For the souls of john Benson, And Anne his wyff, of your charity, To say a Pater Noster and an Aue. These verses following were engraven in copper on the strong Quadrant of Ludgate, built by Stephen Foster Lord Maior, and Dame Agnes his wife, for the relief of the Prisoners. Devout souls that pass this way, For Stephen Foster late Mayor heartily pray, And Dame Agnes his Spous, to God consecrate. That this house made for Londoners in Ludgate. So that for lodging and water Prisoners here nought pay As the kepers shall all ansqueare at dreadful Doomys day. Christ Church. The chief Foundress of this religious house is said to be Queen Margaret, The foundation of Christ-Church or the Friar's Minorites. Margaret the ● wife of King Ed. 1. the second wife of Edward the first, sister of Philip the fourth, surnamed the Fair, King of France, and eldest daughter of King Philip the hardy, son of S. jews. who died An. 1317. and was buried here before the high Altar. john de Dreux, (second son of john Duke of Britain, by Beatrice his wife, daughter of King Henry the third) Earl of Britain and Richmond, gave 300 l. to the building of some part of the Church; glazed all the windows on the south side, and also gave many rich jewels and ornaments to be used in the same, so that he is accounted as a second Founder. diverse other Noble men and worthy Citizens, gave both lands and great sums of money towards the building and endowing of this religious Structure; which was finished within 21 years, dedicated to the honour of God, and our alone Saviour jesus Christ, and replenished with grey Friars Minorites; valued at the general suppression but at 32 l. 19 s. 10 d. This Abbey Church hath been honoured with the sepulture of four Queens, four Duchess', four Countesses, one Duke, two Earls, eight Barons, and some thirty five Knights; whose names are set down by Stow in his Survey of this honourable City; ●●gist Frat. Mi●. Mss. in bib C●t. and in all, from the first foundation unto the dissolution, six hundred sixty and hree persons of Quality were here interred. In the Choir were nine Tombs of Alabaster and Marble, environed with bars or strikes of iron: one Tomb in the body of the Church coped also with iron, and seavenscore gravestones of Marble in diverse places; all which were pulled down, taken away, and sold for fifty pounds or thereabouts, by Sir Martin Bowes Mayor of London, An. 1545. The rest of the Monuments are now wholly defaced, not any one remaining at this day, save such which are of later times. The black Friars. The foundation of the black 〈◊〉 in vita R K. 〈◊〉 chi●piscopi. This House was founded by Robert Kilwardby Archbishop of Canterbury, and the Citizens of London, An. Dom. 1276. This Archbishop, towards the latter end of his time, made a collection, saith Godwin, for the building of a Monastery for the Friar Minors in London. Many contributed so largely thereunto, as he (having the help of a certain old Tower which yielded him stones without charge) finished the same with other men's money, and was able to afford the foundation for another at Salisbury. King Edward the first and Eleanor his wife, were great Benefactors to this work. This was a large Church, richly furnished with ornaments, and honoured by the burials of many great Personages: diverse Parliaments and other great meetings have been holden in this Monastery, which is now altogether demolished, and other new buildings erected in the same place. This order of black Friar's Predicants were removed hither from Oldbourne, where they had continued 55 years. The revenue of this house was valued at 104 l. 15 s. 5 d per annum, being surrendered into the King's hands, 12 of November, the 30 of Henry the 8. Survey of London. Persons of kingly, princely, and noble descent, of eminent high place and quality, to the number of fifty and upwards are reckoned by Io. Stow (out of the Register of this house) to have been here entombed, to whose relation I leave my Reader, only give me leave to speak of one. Upon a Table fastened to a pillar, this inscription was not long since here to be read, as I have it out of the collections of Tho. Talbot. Elizabeth Countess of Northampton. Here lieth the body of the Lady Elizabeth, the daughter of Sir Bartholomew Balitismere, wife of William Bohun, Earl of Northampton, and mother of the Earls of March and Northampton, and of Elizabeth, Countess of Arundel. She died 5 Id. of june, Anno Christi 1378. She was interred before the high Altar. Saint Andrew's Wardrobe. Margaret Hatf●eld. Cernite sub Betra iacet hac Hatfeeld tumulata, Et Margareta claris natalibus orta. Anglica parte Patris fuerat, Normannaque Matris Traxerat, ex ort. uterque parent ..... clara Hec fuit & Domina Domine Salop Comitisse Anno milleno C quater Lx quoque deno Atque die deno junij decessit ameno Eius prestet opem pius anime Deus. Amen. Prey ...... Katherine Riplingham ..... died M. cccc ....▪ Katherine Riplingham. This erazed Inscription is made more plain by the last Will and Testament of the defunct, here interred of which this is a copy in effect. I Damn Katherine Riplingham widow of London, Her Will. advowes the xiij day of Feverer. M. cccc.lxx.iii.xiii Ed. iiii. My soul to God, my body to be buried in the Chancel of saint Andrew at Baynard's Castle, London. I bequeatheth to the Monastery of Westminster to prey for the souls of my Husbands; William Southcote there buried, etc. I will that my Feo●●ees perform the award of master john Wood Clerk, and Nicholas Lathell indifferently chosen between me and Richard Welden Squier, and Elisabeth his wiff, my doghtyr, and Thomas S. john Squier, and Alice his wiff doghtyr of one Richard Langham, to make a lawful estate of all my lands in London to Elisabeth Welden my daughter, the remainder to the next heirs of William Southcote sometime my Husband, father of the same Elisabyth, etc. I will the remainder of all my lands to the right heirs of Thomas Baysham my father. I will to my doghtyrs' doghtyr Alys S john my gold ring, also to my Doghtyrs' son Robart Welden my Maysor, which his mother heretofore gave to me, also to my Lady Chamberlain sojourning with my brother Lathell my mantel, etc. Saint Gregory's by Paul's. Here in this Church lieth buried the body of Thomas Riplingham, Tho. Riplingham. who was the husband of the foresaid Katherine, who died An. 1469. but he is better known by this his will and testament. This xii day of October, His Will. the ix of Edward the fourth in the year of our Lord, M. cccc.lxix. advowes first my soul to God, and my body to be buried in S. Gregory's Church London. I will yat the same Church have the two Chalices, and a cup pledged to me for x marks be restored to them freely, and more to the same Church: I give x marks to continually prey for my soul. I will that Katherine my wyff have all such goods, as she brought to me with her. I will that Ralph my Brother have x. l, and john my Brother x. l, and every of my Sisters one hundred shillings to prey for my soul. Also I will that Richard my Brother have my land in Riplingham to him and his heirs for ever, and as for my land in Etton, I will that john my Brother have it to him and his heirs for ever, the remainder in default to Ralph my Brother, and to his heirs, and for default of issue to the right heirs of the said Richard: Item to Richard Welden my best gown. Item to my dauter Elisabyth a gown cloth; I will that joan Welden my Goddauter have x marks to her marriage. Item I will to the Church of Rowley on hundred shillings, to the grey Friars of Beverley on hundred shillings. Item to the white Friars of Sawburgh on hundred shillings, to pray for my soul and my moders. Also I will yat a dozen Dishes, and as many Sawsers of silver, ye which were my Lord Vesseys', be delivered to William Rilston, and john Fereby, to be sold to my Lord Chamberlein, and to Sir Thomas Burrow as we were agreed. Item I will the two Obligations of the statute of the Staple concerning the sums of xii c marks, and also a bag of money containing cc marks be delivered to the said William and john. I will another bag of gold containing the sum of on c.l. pertaining to the executors of john Heron be delivered to Nicolas Statham to be disposed for the soul of john Heron. Saint foster's. Agnes Milborne. Lord of thy infinite graze and pity, Have mercy on me Agnes sometym the wife Of William Milborne, chamberlein of this city, Which took my passage fro this wretched life, The year of graze, on thousand on hundred and fyf, The xii day of july no longer was my spase, It pleased then my Lord to call me to his graze: Now ye that are living, and see this picture, Prey for me here while ye have time and spase, That God of his goodness would me assure. In his everlasting Mansion to have a please. Saint Peter's Cheap. ...... pur l'ame Nicole de Farindone .... de son.. Nicholas Faringdon Lord Maior. Under this old monument, as this maimed French Inscription would tell us; Nicholas Faringdon Goldsmith, four times Lord Mayor of this City, lieth entombed; he was the son of William Faringdon Sheriff of the same. Of which two Faringdons' the two Wards within, and without, took their denominations. He lived after the first time of his Maioralitie which was An. Dom. 1309. full three and fifty years. Saint Martins. The Foundation of S. Martin's. Near unto Aldersgate was sometime a fair and large College, of a Dean and secular Canons, or Priests, consecrated to the honour of Saint Martin, and called Saint martin's le grand: founded by Ingelricus, and Edward his brother, In Arch turris London. in the year of Christ 1056. and confirmed by William the Conqueror, as appeareth by his charter dated 1068. This College claimed great privileges of sanctuary, and other Franchises, as appeareth in a book written by a Notary of that house, Lib. S. Martin. circa An. 1442. This College was surrendered to King Edward the sixth in the second of his reign, Stow Sur. and in the same year, the College Church was pulled down, and a Wine-taverne built in the place, which continues to this day. Saint Annes Aldersgate. Orate deuote pro anima magistri johannis Pemberton, john Pemberton. Vtriusque iuris Bachalarij, quondam Residentiar. Ecclesie Cathedralis de Rippon Ebor. Diocesis, huiusque etiam Eccles. Rectoris. qui obijt 12 di● Septemb. An. Dom. 1499. Queen an tris di c vul stra Upon a Table in the north Isle. os guis ti ro um nere uit H san chris mi t mu la. Quos anguis tristi diro cum munere stravit Hos sanguis Christi miro tum munere lavit. Corda manus, oculos aures animosque levemus, Et domino voces, A Table in the Qui●e. sua sunt, & ei sua demus. Vt tibi praeceptis mens conformetur honestis Sex animo semper sunt repetenda tuo. Principio, Deus. Deus est noster seruator, & author, Hostis in opposita stat regione Satan. Diabolus: Tertiares presens est vita similima ventis, Vita. Mors sequitur nobis quae prope semper adest. Mors. Ordine sunt quinto, Coeli Palatia summi: Coelum. Tartara sunt sexto constituenda loco Inf●rnum. Haec animo tacite secum qui saepe revoluit, Miror in hoc vitij si quid inesse potest. Gualterus Haddonus. Saint john Zacharies'. Hic iacet Ioanna uxor Tho. Thorp unius Bar. de Scaccario domini Regis, joan the wife of Baron Thorp. Prolocutoris Parliamenti tenti apud Reding, anno Regis Hen. sexti xxxi. Que joanna obijt xxiii jun. An. Dom. M. ccccliii. cuius anime. I find this Baron Thorp to have been a man of many good parts, and ever faithful to his sovereign Lord King Henry the sixth, by whom he was specially employed both in peace and war, against the violence of his headstrong Lords. Stow Annal. But in the end it was the hard hap of this upright Exchequer man, to be beheaded at Highgate by the Commons of Kent, the 17 day of February An. 1461. Here lieth the body of john Sutton Citizen, Goldsmith and Alderman of London, who died 6 july 1450. This Sutton was slain in that black and dismal battle by night, upon London Bridge, between jack Cade with his Kentish Rebels, and the Citizens of London. Here lieth William Brekespere of London, William Brecke-speare. sometime Merchant, Goldsmith and Alderman, the Commonwele attendant. With Margaryt his dawter, late wyff of Suttoon, And Thomas hur son yet living undyr Goddys tuitioon, The tenth of evil he made his transmigration. She disissyd in the yer of graze of Chrysts incarnatioon, A thousand four hundred threescor and oon. God assoyl her sowls whose bodies lie undyr this stoon. Saint leonard's Fosterlane. Robbert Traps, Agnes and joan his wives. When the bells be merely roung, And the Mass devoutly sung And the meat merely eaten, Then ●all Robart Trappis his wyffs and his children be forgotten. Thus far Stow. Wherefore jesus that of Marry sprung Set their souls thy Saints among, Though it be undeservyd on their side Yet good Lord let them evermor thy mercy abide And of your charity, For their souls say a Pater Noster and an Aue. The pictures of Robert, Agnes, and joan, inlaid in brass, seem thus to speak. Robert. Sancta Trinitas unus Deus miserere nobis. Agnes. Et Ancillis tuis sperantibus in te. joan. O matter Dei memento mei. jesus mercy, Lady help. Robert Traps died the year 1526. this Robert had a daughter by joan his second wife, married to one Frankland, whose name was jodoca (I think joice) an especial Benefactor to Brasen-nose College in Oxford, as the principal, the Fellows, and Scholars of that house, do thankfully acknowledge, by a fair Monument in the Northwall of the Chancel of this Church, thus inscribed. joice Frankland. Felici, piae, et munificentissimae foeminae, jodocae Frankland viduatae, filiae Roberti et joannae Traps Londinensium: Gratitudinis hoc officij et pietatis Monumentum adoptione filij Principalis et Scholares Collegij de Brasennose apud oxonians. exhibuere. Dilecti cineres, non sic requiescitis urnae In tenui, ut vobis sola haec monumenta parantur, Quae tandem vel sera dies pessundare possit: Aenea vos monumenta ●egunt, viwmque Trophaeum, (Aeternum meruistis enim viwmque Trophaeum) Vobis vestra dedit jodoca, paerennius aere, Nos etenim aeternumque omnes, quos postera nobis, An Inscription ●nder the portraiture of Queen Elizabeth. Secla dabunt voces sumus immortal Sepulchrum. Nomen, Elisa, tuum fama super aethera notum Ae●ternum, magis atque magis post funera floret; Vt Mater Patriae, vicinis gentibus hospes; Hostibus infestis terror, pietatis Asylum: Mitrati mastix Papae; celebraris ubique: Semper erit Britones inter clarissima Elisa Gloria dum Britonum atque Gens Angla vigebit. Without this Church, on the East end is engraven this name, john Brokeitwell, Io. Brokitwell. an especial founder, or new builder of the same: and these rhymes following: All yat will good warks wurch Prey for yem yat help this Church Geving alms; for cherite; Pater Noster and Aue▪ Saint Margaret Moses. Prey for ye sowlygs of Michiel Forlace, Michael Forlace and Mary his wife. and Mary his wife, and in ye worschypp of God and our Lady, for their Faders and Moders, with ye sowlygs of all Christian, of your charity say a Pater Noster, and an Ave Maria: Body: I Mary Pawson lie below sleeping. Marry Pawson. Soul. I Mary Pawson sit above waking. Both. We hope to meet again with glory clothed▪ Then Mary Pawson for ever blessed. Saint Albon Woodstreet. Here lieth marmorate undyr this heap of stoan Sir Harry Wever Aldyrman, Sir Hen. We●●e● knight, and his wife joan. and his Lady Dame joan. Thus worldly worschypp, and honour, with Favour and fortune passeth day by day: Who may withstand deathies schorne when rich and por sche closyth in clay. Wherefore to God hertelie we pray To pardon us of our misdeed, And help us now in our most need. Hic iacet in requie Woodcock jon vir generosus, Sir john Woodcock Lord Maior. Maior Londonie, Mercerus valde morosus. Miles qui fuerat ............. M. Domini mille centum quater ruit ille, Cum x bis. This john Woodcock was Lord Maior, Ann. Dom. 1405. in which his office he caused all the Wears in the River of Thames, from Stanes to the River of Medway to be destroyed; and the Trinks to be burned. Saint michael's Woodstreet. Here lieth buried (saith Stow) the head of james the fourth, King of Scots, whose body bowelled, rebollowed, embalmed and enclosed in lead, was conveyed from Flodden Field (where he was slain in battle, The head of james the 4. king of Scotland. Stow. Annal. the ninth of September being Friday, 1513.) by Thomas Howard, Earl of Surry, Lieutenant General of the English Army, to this City of London, presented to Queen Katherine, and from hence sent to the Monastery of Shine in Surrey, where it was regally interred. Since the dissolution of which house, in the days of king Edward the sixth, I have been showed (saith he) the same body so wrapped in lead, Survey Lond. thrown into a waste room, amongst old timber, stone, lead, and other rubble: and further (to show the occasion of the burial of his head, here in this Church) he declareth, that the servants of Lancelot Young, Glazier to the late Queen Elizabeth, being at Shine, in new glazing the windows, either upon a foolish pleasure, or desire of the lead, cut the head from the rest; but smelling the sweet perfumes of the balms, gave it to their Master; who opening the head, found therein the head of a man retaining favour; though the moisture were clean dried up, whose hair both of Head and Beard was red: which, after he had well viewed, and a while kept, he caused to be buried in Saint michael's Woodstreet, London, the Church of the Parish wherein himself dwelled. That the Head of this valorous King lieth here inhumed, we must believe the words of the Relator; for I find no Monument or outward appearance of it in the Church. That his body (not found till the day after the battle, and then not known or descried, because of his many wounds, save only by the Lord Dacres) was interred amongst the Carthusians in the Priory of Shine at Richmond, I have, out of an old Manuscript, the testimony of a man which saw his Sepulchre, the same year of his death in the said religious house: these are his words, out of the Lieger book of whaley Abbey. Lib. Monasterij de whaley in Com. Lanc. Anno Domini M. VC.XIII. Hoc anno jacobus Scotie Rex in Borea triumphaliter ab Anglis (Rege Henrico valido exercitu contra Gallos ultra Mare debellante) interemptus est. Cuius corpus quom hec scripserim (quoniam membrum ab Ecclesia ewlsum de hoc mundo abcesserit) huc usque in domo Cartusiensium apud Rychmund mortalibus miserandum spectaculum inhumatum iacet. Qui vidit testimonium perhibuit Et verum est testimonium eius: Yet notwithstanding all this, john Lesley, Io. Lesle in vil. jac. 4. Bishop of Rosse, affirmeth that it was held for certain, that the body thus found by the Lord Dacres, was the body of the Laird Bonehard, then slain in the battle: and that King james was seen alive the same night at Kelso, whence he passed to jerusalem, and there spent the rest of his days in holy contemplation. And another of later times also affirmeth the place of this king's burial to be as yet unknown. Remains, pa. 371. King Henry the eight (saith he) who subverted so many Churches, Monuments and Tombs, lieth inglorious at Windsor, and never had the honour, either of the Tomb which he had prepared, or of any Epitaph that I now remember. But his Brother in law King james the fourth of Scotland, slain at Flodden, though the place of his burial is unknown, yet had this honourable Epitaph. Fama orbem replet, mortem sors occulit, at tu Desine scrutari quod tegit ossa solum. Si mihi dent animo non impar fata Sepulchrum, Augusta est tumulo terra Britanna meo. And john jonston in his Historical Inscriptions of the Scottish Kings, confirms the same opinion of the uncertainty of the place of this King's interrement. Read, if you please, the verses of that worthy man (Professor of Divinity in the University of Saint Andrew's Scotland) to the same effect; and greatly in this king's commendation. jacobus 4. Rex 105. Anno mundi, 5459. An. Christi 1489. à conditu Regni. 1819. 1. Tristia fata gemens genitoris, ferrea gestat Baltea, & haec luctus dat monimenta sui. Margaris' Angla datur thalamis. Hinc Anglica sceptra Debentur fatis Sexte jacobe tuis. Pax regnis redit, et pleno Bona copia cornu, Et blandum adspirans aura secunda favet. Rursus ad arma vocat laetis sors invida rebus, Tueda ubi The mount of Flodden. finitimam gurgite sulcat humum. Flos Procerum, Patriaeque simul Pater optimus una Sorte ruunt. Heu sors semper acerba bonis; Quod si animis orsisque tuis Sors aequa fuisset, Imperij Fines ultima terra daret. 2. Desine Pyramidum moles, ac Mausolea Sollicitus * De corpore enim nondum compertum est. vacuum surrigere ad tumulum, Illum Fama vehens late circumsona Olympo Aequat. Pro tumulo maximus orbis erit. Much more might be said of this magnanimous and high-spirited king of Scotland, which I shall further enlarge when I come to Richmond; the place, no doubt, of his burial. john Casy of this Parish whose dwelling was Insc●ipt●. the wa●●. In the North corner house as to Lad-lane you pass. For better knowledge, the name it hath now, Is called and known by the name of the Blow. Out of that house yearly did geeve Twenty shillings to the poor, their need to relieve. Which money the Tenant must yearly pay, To the Parson and Church wardens on Saint Thomas day. The heir of that house, Thomas Bowrman by name Hath since by his deed confirmed the same. Whose love to the poor doth thereby appear, And after his death shall live many a year. Therefore in your life do good while ye may, That when meager death shall take ye away You may live like famed as Casy and Bowrman, For he that doth well shall never be a poor man. Saint Mary Aldermanburic. Shank bone of 28. inches long. In the Cloister about this Churchyard, hanged and fastened to a post is the shanke-bone of a man, wondrous great, and large, in length 28. inches and a half, of assize: with the portraiture of a Giantlike person, upon a Table, with this Inscription. In wise men's sight I seem not strange, Although some friends of Pan will scorn; From time to time all shapes will change, Full well appears since the firstborn. Deride not that which nought offends, Let reason rule, strong men have been; As Samson tall; lo death all ends: In Stories past may well be seen. Cam●en in Cornwall. If you trust our Stories, you must believe that Giants, or men of vast bodily composture, inhabited this our Island in former times. Of whom one Havillan a Poet, who flourished above four hundred years since, wrote pleasantly in this wise, thus translated out of the Latin tongue. * In Cornwall There Giants whilom dwelled, whose clothes were skins of beasts, Whose drink was blood; whose cups, to serve for use at feasts, Were made of hollow wood; whose beds were bushy thorns; And Lodgings rocky caves, to shelter them from storms. Their chambers craggy rocks, their hunting found them meat. To ravish and to kill, to them was pleasure great. Their violence was rule, with rage and fury led, They rushed into the fight, and fought hand over head. Their bodies were interred behind some bush or brake: To bear such monstrous wights, the earth did groan and quake. These pestered most the Western tract: more fear made thee aghast, O Cornwall, utmost door that art to let in Zephyrus' blast. And the vulgar received opinion is, that Brute upon his first arrival in Kent, was encountered with diverse strong and mighty Giants. Of which an Author of reverend good antiquity thus writeth: as also of the wrestling betwixt Corineus and Gogmagog. R●b Glocest. There was a Geant het Gogmagog, yat was great and strong, For about ane twenty fet men * saith. seiy yat he was long: A good oak he would bray a down as hit small yard were; And bear hit forth in his hand ye folk all to a fere. * wi●h. He come wiy xx giants and assayllede Brute fast, Brut wiy his power him slough echon at last, Awl but Gogmagog, for him ne slough he nought, For he should wiy Corneus wrestle by his thought. In a word, my Author makes Corineus to get the upper hand of Gogmagog, and to cast him headlong from one of the rocks not far from Dover, which for a long time was called the fall or leap of Gogmagog, Gogmagog the last Giant. and afterwards the fall of Dover. And this Gogmagog, saith he, was the last of that monstrous generation. Ralph the Monk of Coggeshall who wrote above three hundred years ago, saith, that in king Richard's time, on the sea shore at a Village in Essex, called Eadulphnesse, were found two teeth of a certain Giant, of such an huge bigness, that two hundred such teeth, as men have now a days, might be cut out of them. These saw I at Goggeshall (quoth he) and not without wondering. And such another Giantlike thing, I wot not what, saith Camden, Camd. in Essex. was in the beginning of Queen Elizabeth's reign, digged up by R. Candish, a Gentleman near to this place. Upon which thus he doth further comment. I do not deny (saith he) but that there have been men, that for their huge bodies, and firm strength, were wondrous to behold; whom God, as Saint Austin saith, would have to live upon the earth: thereby to teach us, that neither beauty of body, nor tallness of stature, are to be accounted simply good things, seeing they be common, as well to Infidels, as to the godly. Yet may we very well think, that which Suetonius hath written, namely, that the huge limbs of monstrous Sea-creatures elsewhere, and in this kingdom also, were commonly said and taken to have been Giants bones. Another judicious Antiquary of these times doth also thus illustrate this point. Selden in his Illu●●r●tions, Polyol. Song 1. I could think, saith he, that there now are some as great statures, as for the most part have been; and that Giants were but of a somewhat more than vulgar excellence in body, and martial performance. If you object the finding of great bones, which measured by proportion largely exceed our times. I first answer, that in some singulars, as Monsters rather than natural, such proof hath been; but that now and of ancient time, the eyes judgement in such like hath been, and is, subject to much imposture, mistaking bones of huge beasts for humane. Claudius' brought over his Elephants hither, and perhaps julius Cesar some (for I have read that he terribly frighted the Britons, with sight of one at Coway Stakes, when he passed over Thames) and so may you be deceived. But more of Giants hereafter. Saint Olaves jewrie. Thomas Morsted gist ici Tho. Morsted. Dieu de salme eit merci. Amen. This man was Chirurgeon to three kings; Henry the fourth, the fifth, and the sixth, in the year 1436. He was Sheriff of London, he built a fair new Isle to the enlargement of this Church, on the North side thereof; wherein he lieth buried. He died, Ann. Dom. 1450. Here lieth Giles Dewes, Giles Dewes. who sometime was servant to king Henry the 7. and king Hen. the 8. Clerk of their Libraries, and Schoolmaster for the French tongue to Prince Arthur, and to the Lady Mary. Who died, 1535. Saint Michael Bassishaw or Bassingshall. john Burton 〈◊〉 jenet his 〈◊〉. john Burton lieth under here, Sometimes of London Citizen and Mercer; And jenet his wife with their progeny, Been turned to earth, as ye may see. Friends free, what so ye be, Pray for us we you prey, As you see us in this degree; So shall you be another dey. He deceased in the year 1460. he was a great benefactor to the building of this Church, as appeareth by his mark placed throughout the whole roof of the Choir, and middle Isle of the Church. ●holl Moor Doctor of Law, ●nd Agnes his brother's wife. Huc ades atque tuis metire viator ocellis Quam brevis inclusos illigat urna duos. Vt modo tu, vir fuit hic, hec & femina quondam, Nunc gelidi pars est huius uterque soli. Nomen Abel, More erat cognomen & Exoniensum Cesarij Doctor iuris in urbe fuit. Agnes alterius nomen, coniuxque johannis More fuit, huius Abel qui modo frater erat. Vt cupis ergo tibi faciant post funera vivi Has modo tute breues quisquis es ede preces▪ Hic Abel primo hic Agnes relevetur ab Agno, Qui prius agnino sanguine lavit oves. Obijt Abel 1486. Agnes 1499. quorum animabus. Saint Laurence in the jewrie. Sir Godfrey Bullen Lord Maior. Hic incineratur corpus quondam Gaulfridi Bulleyn civis, merceri, & Maioris London, qui ab hac luce migravit. An. Dom. 1463. cuius anime pax sit perpetua. This Sir Geffray (or Godfrey) Bullen Lord Mayor of London, was the Son of Geffrey Bullen of Salle or saul in Norfolk Esquire. He married Anne the eldest daughter, and coheir of Thomas Lord Hoo and Hastings, by whom he had issue Sir William Bullen of Blickling in Norfolk Knight, Catal. of honour. f●ther to Thomas Bullen, Viscount Rochfort, Earl of Wiltshire, who was father to Anne Bullen marchioness of Penbroke, the second wife of King Henry the eight, and the happy mother of our late Sovereign, Elizabeth Queen of England, with all thankfulness ever to be remembered. This Lord Maior gave to poor house holder's in London, 1000 l, and 200 l to the like use in Norfolk: besides many liberal gifts to Prisons, Hospitals, and lazar houses. Tho. Bullen. Hic iacet Thomas Bulleyn, de comitatu Norfolcie Armiger qui obijt ultimo die mensis Aprilis An. Dom. 147●. cuius. The honourable Merchant jon Pickering, john Pickering and 〈◊〉 his wife. And Elisabyth, lie undyr this stone: Of the English merchant Venturers undyr the king, In the Martis beyond See, governor was this jon, Thirty year and more that room he did manteyn, To his honour, and worship, and died in Novembyr, The xxix day. Mcccc forty and eight certain. Whos soul and all Christians for cherite remembyr. Hic Thomas Cressey London mercerus humatur Tho. Cressly and Agnes his wife. Et Agnes Coniux sua postea suppeditatur M. Domini C quater his x. annoque secundo Sexta luce junij i●it hic de .... mundo. Gild Hall Chapel. This Chapel or College of our Lady, The foundation of the Collegiate Chapel at Guildhall. Mary Magdalen, and of all Saints, was founded about the year 1299. by Peter Fanclore, saith Stow, Adam Francis, and Henry Frowike, whose revenue was much augmented by K. Richard the second, K. Henry the sixth, and diverse citizens of London; so that at the suppression it was endowed with sufficient maintenance, for a Custos, seven Chaplains, three Clerks, and four Choristers, at which time it was valued at xii l xviij s ix d per an. Here have been many Tombs, and marble stones inlaid with brass; whose inscriptions and portraitures are all either worn out with time, torn out, or quite defaced, only this Epitaph remaining. En Thomas Frances, pius hic qui lustra per octo Custos extiterat, iacet, & semper requiescat ob. Mar. 4. 1488. Over the door of the Council Chamber in Guild hall was, and yet is, as I think, this Distich. Carolus, Henricus, Vivant, Defensor uterque Henricus Fidei, Carolus Ecclesie. Long prosperity To Charles and Henry, Prince's most puissant The one of the Faith, The other of the Church Chosen defendant. These verses were depicted, Hollins. here and in other places about this City, the year 1514. when Charles the fifth Emperor was here in England; to show in what golden bands of love these two potent monarchs were enlinked; for that amongst other covenants (then concluded and confirmed betwixt them by corporal Oaths) one was, that the Emperor promised to stay for, and take to wife the young Princess Lady Mary, King Henry's then only daughter, afterwards Queen of England. Why the Titles, Speed Hist. defender of the Church and Faith, were attributed unto these two Princes, is vulgarly known, because Charles chosen Emperor, to purchase the Pope's favour, directed forth a solemn Writ of Outlawry against Martin Luther, who then had given a great blow to the Papal Crown; And King Henry likewise was renowned in Rome, for writing a book against the said Luther; underpropping the tottering or downcast countenance of the Pope's Pardons, which Luther shrewdly had shaken. The Pope therefore, to show himself a kind Father unto these his sons, gave them these Titles; which were in truth none other, than the same which they swore unto, when the Crowns of their Empires were first set upon their heads. The Hospital of Saint Tho. of Acars, or Mercer's Chapel. Foundation of Mercer's Chapel. This Hospital was founded by Thomas Fitztheobald de Heili, and Agnes his wife, Sister to Thomas Becket Archbishop of Canterbury, in the reign of Henry the second, and dedicated to Saint Thomas of Acon or Acars in the holy land. They gave to the Master and Brethren of this house, the lands with the appurtenances, that sometimes were Gilbert Beckets', father to the said Thomas, in the which he was born, there to make a Church. This Hospital was valued at the suppression to dispend yearly 277 l. 3 s. 4 d. it was surrendered the 30 of Henry the 8. the 21 of October, and was since purchased by the Mercers, Stow. by means of Sir Richard Gresham. james Butler Earl of Ormond, and joan his wife. Thomas Butler Earl of Ormond. Here lieth entombed james Butler, Earl of Ormond, and Dame joan his wife; he died Anno Dom. 1428. and she 1430. Hic iacet Thomas filius jacobi comitis Ormundie ac fratris jacobi comitis Wilts & Ormundie qui quidem Thomas obijt secundo die 1515 & anno regni Regis Henrici Octavi 37. cuius. Camden in the County of Tipperary. Ireland. The Ancestors of these Earls (saith learned Camden) were in old time the Butlers (an honourable office) in Ireland, and from thence came this Surname Le Boteler or Butler imposed upon them▪ and certain it is that they were linked in most near alliance unto Saint Thomas Becket Archbishop of Canterbury (as who derive their descent from his sister) (which was a great motive to make them choose this place for their burial) and that after he was murdered, Becket was borne near to this Church, here he had a shrine, and his picture over the Chapel door. they were by King Henry the second removed into Ireland, who supposed that he should disburden himself of the world's hatred, for that fact, in case he advanced the Kinsfolk and Allies of the said Thomas to rich revenues, and high honours. The first Earl of Ormond (saith he) in this family, was james, son to Edmund, Earl of Caricke, who wedded the daughter of Humphrey Bohun Earl of Hereford, whom he had by a daughter of King Edward the first. And here was his first step unto this honour; hereupon james his son by this marriage, came to be commonly named among the people, The noble Earl. The fifth Earl of these named james (that I may not stand particularly upon ever one) received at the hands of King Henry the sixth, the title and honour of Earl of Wiltshire, to him and to the heirs of his body, who being Lord Deputy of Ireland, as diverse others of this race, and Lord Treasurer of England; standing attainted by King Edward the fourth, was straight ways apprehended and beheaded: but his brethren, john and Thomas likewise proclaimed Traitors, kept themselves close out of the way. john died at jerusalem without issue. Thomas here entombed, through the special favour of King Henry the seventh, was in the end restored to his blood, who departed this life, (as before in his Epitaph.) An. 1515. leaving behind him two daughters, Anne married to Sir james de Sancto Leodegario, called commonly Sellinger, and Margaret unto Sir William Bullein, who bore unto him Sir Thomas Bollein, whom King Henry the eight created first Viscount Rochfort, afterwards Earl of Wiltshire and Ormund, the father of Anne Bollein, as I have written before. Here lieth ..... john rich .... the son of Richard rich Sheriff .... 1469. john Rich. Respice quid prodest presentis temporis ewm Omne quod est nihil est, preter amare deum. Richard Rich one of the Sheriffs of London, Stow Survey. Anno 1442. and the father of this john, founded certain Almshouses at Hodsdon in Hertfordshire. He lieth buried in Saint Laurence Church old jewrie, with the like Distich upon his monument. Vndyr this stone lieth in the holy plas Ambros Cressacre: Ambrose Cressacre. ...... he was Late of Dedington in Huntingdon shire passed fro this world worshcipfull Esquire The year of our Lord God M. cccc.lxxvii. it is jesus for his mercy grant his sowl bliss. john Peris, john Peris and Margaret his wife. and Margaret his wife, The which late departed fro this present life Here buried, and there sonn undyr this stone, And there souls to God been passed and gone: To thee for help of mercy thou blessed Saint jon And to Saint Margarite also I make my mon. Here lieth Ralph Tilney Grocer, Ralph Tilney and joan his wife. sometime Alderman and Sheriff of this City; and joan his wyff: who died 1503, and joan died 1500 .... on whose souls. Clausa sub bac fossa pacis hic Yerford pronus ossa, : ............... Prudens pacificus & in omnes pacis amicus: Yarford. Vixit Mercerus, in promissis cuique verus: Mors properata nimis, dum floruit, impia, primis Annis vanescit, et à nobis sicque recessit, Anno milleno, quater & cccc. octuagen● Migrat ab hac vita sua spes succurre Maria. Siste precorque legas, Io. Allen Lord Maior. Alleyneia et e●ce johannes Londini quondam Praetor erat celebris. Confilio Regis summa probitate probatus, Inclytus et miles nobilitate valens Quem Deus omnipotens secum dignetur Olympo Et precor eternam donet ei requiem. obijt An. 1544. This Lord Mayor, (who for his singular wisdom was made a Privy Counsellor to King Henry the eight) built a beautiful Chapel here, wherein he was first buried, Stow Survey. but since, his Tomb is removed thence into the body of the Hospital Church, and his Chapel divided into Shops. He gave to the city a rich collar of gold, to be worn by the Mayor; he gave a stock of 500 marks to be employed for the use of the poor of London; besides the rents of certain lands by him purchased of the King. To Prisons, Hospitals, and Lazer houses within, and two miles without the City, he was abundantly charitable. Saint Mary Bow. john Coventrie Lord Maior. Magnificus, sed iustificus, mis●ris et amicus, Vir speciosus, vir generosus, virque pudicus, Et peramabilis, et venerabilis, atque piarum. Vis, dux, lex, lampas, flos, Maior Londoniarum. In terre ventre iacet hic john rite Coventre, Dictus; quem necuit, veluti decuit, lieu plenus, Bis septingenus tricenus citra his et unus; Martius in sole triceno si trahis unum Virgins a partu carnis modo mortuus artu, Viws erit celis tuba clanxerit ut Gabrielis. Amen. Fabian. Stow Annal. This john was the son of William Coventrie, of the City of Coventrie in Warwickshire. He was Lord Mayor of this City, An. 1425, a man much commended he is, in our English Chronicles for his discreet carriage, in the debate betwixt Humphrey Duke of Gloucester, and Henry Beaufort that wealthy Bishop of Winchester. Stow Survey. One William Copeland Churchwarden, gave the great Bell which is rung nightly at nine of the clock, which had this inscription cast in the mettle, An. 1515. Dudum fundabar Bowbel campana vocabar Sexta sonat, bis sexta sonat, ter tertia pulsat. Under the Statue of K. Ed. the sixth upon the Standard in Cheap. No marvel death in childhood took from men This royal Prince, he was a father then Three Hospitals erected this rate gem And ended, praising God for ending them. Saint Anthony's commonly called Saint Antlin. Tho. Knowles Lord Maior and joan his wife. Here lieth gravyn undyr this stone Thomas Knowles both flesh and bon Grocer, and Alderman years forty Sheriff, and twis Mayor truly: And for he should not lie alone, Here lieth with him his good wyff jone: They weren together sixty year; And nineteen children they had in fear Now been they gone we them miss: Christ have here sowlys to heaven bliss. Amen. ob. Ann. 14 ...... This Lord Mayor, with the Aldermen his brethren, began to new build the Guild Hall; he re-edified this Church, gave to the Grocers his house, near unto the same, for relief of the poor for ever, and caused water to be conveyed to the gate of Newgate, and Ludgate, for relief of the prisoners. He was Lord Maior Ann. 1. of Hen. the fourth, and again An. 12. eiusdem Regis. Thomas Knowles, Tho. Knowles. son of the foresaid Thomas, a great benefactor to this Church, was buried here in the North Isle, by his father under a fair marble stone, thus sometimes engraven, but now quite taken away for the gain of the brass. Thomas Knolles lieth under this stone, And his wyff Isabella flesh and bon. They weren together nyntene year, And x. children they had in fere. His Fader and he to this Chyrch, Many good deed they did wyrch. Example by him ye may see That this world is but vanity: For whether he be small or great, All shall turn to worms meet. This said Thomas was laid on Bear The eighth day the month Feurer, The date of jesus Crist truly, An. M. CCCC. five and forty. We mey not prey, hertely pray ye For our souls Pater Noster and Aue, The sooner of our pain lessid to be, Grant us thy holy trinity. Amen. Here undyr rests this marble stone, joan Spenser. jone Spenser both flesh and bon, Wyff to jon Spenser certain, Tailor of London and Citizen. Dawter she was, whilst she was here, Unto Richard Wetiven Squier. And to Elisabeth his wife; Which jone departed this life, The tweluth day of September, As many one do yet remember: In the year of our Lord God full even, A thousand four hundred and seven. Walter Lempster 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉. Under this black marbl stone, lieth the body of Master Walter Lempster, Doctor of Physic, and also Physician to the high and mighty Prince Hen. the seven, which Master Lempster gayve unto this Chyrch too chains of fine gold, weighing xiiii ounces, and a quarter, for to make a certain ornament, to put on the blessed body of our Saviour iesu. He died the ix of March, M. cccc.lxxx.vii. Who's soul god pardon. Simon Street, & Agnes his wife. Such as I am, such shall ye be; Grocer of London somtym was I: The kings Weigher mor than years twenty. Simon Street called in my plas, And good fellowship fayn would tras. Therefore in heaven everlasting life jesus send me and Agnes my wife. Kerli Merli my words were tho, And Deo gratias, I added thereto, I passed to God in the year of Graze, A thousand four hundred just hit was. Will. Goldhirst and Margaret his wife. ................. Here lieth undyr this little spas, The body of William Goldhirst who somtym was Skinner of London, and citinure, Worshcipful till his endure; And his wife Margaret also; God have mercy on their souls both two. And departed fro hence the xxv day Of the Month of Septembyr, withoutyn nay. The year of our Lord jesus, On thousand five hundred eleven full true. Upon whose souls jesus have mercy, That for us say a Pater Noster and an Aue. Saint michael's at Queene-Hithe. The Monuments in this Church are all defaced; only I find that Stephen Spilman, Stephen Spilman Sheriff of London. or Spelman, as appeareth by his Will, was here buried directly against the high Altar, under a fair Monument, no Inscription thereupon now remaining. This Stephen's Arms are amongst the Majors and Sheriffs of London, upon a field sables, six besants, 2.1.1.2. between two slayks argent. Sometimes Mercer, Chamberlain of London, than one of the Sheriffs, and Alderman of the said City, in the year, 1404. He deceased without issue, gave his lands to his Family, the Spilmans, and his goods to the making or repairing of Bridges, and other like godly uses. He repaired this Church, and therein founded a Chantry. He died about the last year of the reign of king Henry the fifth. Ric. Grey Sheriff of London. Richard Grey Iron-monger, one of the Sheriffs likewise of this City, in the year, 1515. lieth here buried. He gave 40. pound to the repairing of this Church. Orate pro animabus Richardi Marloi quondam venerabilis Maioris Civitatis London, R. Marlowe Lord Maior. & Agnetis consortis sue. Qui ....... ob. ..... This Marlowe was Lord Mayor in the year 1409. in whose majoralty there was a Play at Skinner's Hall, Corpus Christi play. which lasted eight days (saith Stow) to hear which, most of the greatest Estates of England were present. The Subject of the play was the sacred Scriptures, from the creation of the world▪ They call this, Corpus Christi Play in my country, which I have seen acted at Preston, and Lancaster, and last of all at Kendal, in the beginning of the reign of King james; for which the Townsmen were sore troubled; and upon good reasons the play finally suppressed, not only there, but in all other Towns of the kingdom. Richardo Hill potentissimi Regis Henrici octavi, Ric. Hill, Master or Sergeant of the king's c●ller. celle vinarie Prefectus. Elisabetha coniux mestissima facta iam, undecimorum liberorum matter, Marito optimo; immatura tandem morte sublato. Quod solum potuit posteritati commendaturum cupiens hoc Monumentum posuit. Obijt. An. Dom. 1539. die mens. Maij 12. Saint Mary Aldermary. Here lieth buried, Sir Charles' Blunt knight, Lord Mountioy Sir Charles Blount, or Blunt, Baron Mountioy, who died 1544. With this Epitaph made by himself a little before his death. Wilingly have I sought, and willingly have I found, The fatal end that wrought thither as duty bound: Discharged I am of that I ought to my country by honest wound. My soul departed Christ hath bought: the end of man is ground. This family of the Blunts is noble and ancient, Camd. in Shrop. surnamed so at the first of the yellow hair of their head; Blunt signifying so in the Norman language; they greatly flourished at Kinlet in Shropshire, and by Elwaston in Darbishire, Camd. in Darbishire. where Sir Ralph Mountioy had lands in the time of Edward the first: from whence came Sir Walter Blunt, whom King Edward the fourth advanced to the honour of Baron Mountioy, with a pension. Whose posterity have equalled the Nobility of their birth, with the ornaments of learning; and principally amongst them, Charles' late Earl of Devonshire deceased; Baron Mountioy, Lord Lieutenant general of Ireland, and knight of the honourable order of the Garter: whose son Mountioy Blunt enjoyeth his lands: who by the special favour of our late Sovereign King james was created Baron of Montioy in the North of Ireland. Here also lieth buried William Blunt, Lord Mountioy, who died but of later times. Saint Martius Vintrie. Many fair marble stones inlaid with brass, and well preserved, are in this Church; most of their inscriptions being perfectly to be read. And the most of which are set down in the Survey of this City, I will only touch some few of them. As flowers in field thus passeth life, Rob. Dalusse Ba●her, and Alice his wife. naked then clothed, feeble in the end. If showeth by Robart Daluss and Alyson his wife, christ yem save fro the power of the Fiend. ob. 1469. Io▪ Micolt and joan his wife. Hic .... Micolt quondam civis & vinitarius London, & joanna uxor eius, ac pueri eorundem, qui quidem Iohannes obijt 17. die Aprilis, Ann. Dom. 1424. Quorum anime per Dei immensam miserecordiam in pace perpetua permaneant, ac requiem possideant. Es testis Christe quod non iacet hic lapis iste Corpus ut ornetur, sed spiritus ut memoretur. Heus tu qui transis, magnus, medius, puer an sis Pro me funde preces quia sic mihi fit veny spes. Ralph Astry Lord Mayor, Margery and Margaret his wives. ...... honorabilis viri Radulphi Astry militis nuper Maioris, ac Aldermanni, & Piscenarij Civitatis London: et preclarissimarum Domine Margarie, ac Margarete uxorum eius. Qui quidem Radulphus obijt 18. die Novembris, Ann. Dom. 1494. & predicta Margeria obijt: .... die & dicta Margarita ab hoc seculo migravit 10. die Marcijs, Ann. Dom. 1492. Quorum animabus. Ralph Astry. Hic iacet Radulphus Astry generosus unus filiorum Radulphi Astri militis quondam maioris Civitatis London. Qui quidem Radulphus filius in sua florida iwentute, ab hoc seculo migravit. Ann. Dom. 1501. 19 die mens. Septemb. This Ralph Astrie Mayor, was son to Geoffrey Astrie, or Ostrich, of Hitchin in the County of Hertford. He new roofed this Church with timber, covered it with lead; and beautifully glazed it. johannem tegit hic cognomine Gray lapis iste, john Grey. Mentem queso suam celo tene as tibi Christ. Aspice mortalis quid sit nisi mors tua vita, Vt modo sum talis breviter quoque tu fies ita .................. 1424. Debita qui teneri● Nature soluit in annis, Ipsorum prolis jesu miserere johannis. Tho. Cornwallis. Hic iacet Thomas Cornwaleis quondam civis London, qui obijt quarto die januarij, Ann. Dom. 1384. Cuius. This Thomas was Sheriff of London, Ann. 1378. Henry guysor's. Henry guysor's gist yci, Deeu de sa Am tien pite, e john le filz a mercy. Qui morust le veille de S. Katherine. En l'an de grace, 1343. Here lieth also Sir john guysor's knight, who was Mayor of this City, An. 1311. the father of this Henry. Saint james Garlickehyth. 〈◊〉 Lions. Gemmarius Lion hic Richardus est tumulatus; Qui fuit in rabie vulgi (ve) decapitatus. Hic bonus extiterat cunctis; hospes egenorum; Pacis et author erat, dilector et urbis honorum. Anno milleno tricenteno numerato Sic octogeno currente cum simul uno, Plebe rea perij ...... morte dolosa. Basily festo dum regnat plebs furiosa. This Richard Lion here interred (whose corporal proportion is engraven wondrous curiously upon his Grave-stone) was a famous Wine-merchant, a skilful Lapidary, sometime Sheriff of London. He was drawn and hailed out of his own house by Wat. Tyler and other Rebels, and by them beheaded in Cheap, the year 1381. Not many years since, here stood a monument in the North wall, erected to the memory of Sir George Stanley, Knight of the Garter, and Lord Strange (in right of his wife joan, daughter and heir of john Lord Strange of Knocking) son and heir of Thomas Stanley, Lord Stanley of Lathum in Lancashire and Earl of Derby: which George died before his Father at Derby house (now the Herald's Office) Anno 1487. the third of Henry the seventh. And near to the same place Elinor his mother Countess of Derby, the daughter of Richard Nevil Earl of Salisbury, was likewise entombed. This Church was honoured with the monuments of many worthy personages, of which no mention is now remaining. Saint michael's Pater Noster in the Royal. This Church was new builded, The Foundation of Whittin●●on College ●nd Hospital. and made a College of S. Spirit and S. Mary, founded by Richard Whitington Mercer four times Mayor, for a Master, four Fellows, Masters of Art, Clerks, Conducts, Choristers, etc. and an Alms house, called God's house, or Hospital for thirteen poor men, one of them to be Tutor, and to have xuj. d. the week, the other twelve, each of them to have xiv. d. the week for ever, with other necessary provisions. These were bound to pray for the good estate of Richard Whitington and Alice his wife, their Founders, and for Sir William Whitington Knight, and Dame joan his wife, and for Hugh Fitz-Warren, and Dame Maud his wife, the Fathers and Mothers of the said Richard Whitington, and Alice his wife; Stow Survey. for King Richard the second, and Thomas of Woodstock, Duke of Gloucester, special Lords and promoters of the said Richard Whitington. The licence for this foundation was granted by King Henry the fourth, the eleventh of his reign, and confirmed by King Henry the sixth, the third of his reign. This Richard Whitington (saith my Author Stow) was three times buried in this his own Church: first by his Executors under a fair monument, then in the reign of Edward the sixth; the Parson of the Church thinking some great riches (as he said) to be buried with him, Richard Whit●ing thrice buried. caused his monument to be broken, his body to be spoilt of his leaden sheet, and again the second time to be buried. And in the reign of Queen Mary, the Parishioners were forced to take him up, to lap him in lead as afore, to bury him the third time, and to place his monument or the like over him again: whereupon this Epitaph is engraven, partly erazed and imperfect. Vt fragrans Nardus fama fuit iste Richardus, Albisicans villam; qui iuste rexerat illam. Flos Mercatorum, Fundator presbiterorum. Sic & Egenorum, testis sit cetus eorum. Omnibus exemplum Barathrum vincendo molosum Condidit hoc templum Michaelis quod specio sum. Regia ....... res rata turbiss. Pauperibus Pater extiterat, Maior quater urbis. Martius hunc vicit, en Annos gens tibi dicit Finijt ipse dies sis sibi christe quies. Amen. Eius sponsa pia generosa probata Sophia, jungitur. This Whitington flourished in the reign of King Richard the second. Henry the fourth, Henry the fifth, and died about the beginning of Henry the sixth, having begun to build Newgate, and the Library of Grey Friars at Christ Church, London, with that at Guild hall; all which were finished by his Executors, with his goods. His College here, was suppressed by the Statute of Edward the sixth: the Alms houses, with the poor men, do remain to this day, and are paid by the Mercers. All-hallows the great. William Lichfield Doctor of Divinity. Willelmus dudum Lichfeeld quem mors fera pressit. Ista post ludum mundi, sub rupe quiescit, In Domini rure cultor, sator ac operosus. Dum preciat ture, Pastor vigil et studiosus. Hanc Edem rexit, ornavit et amplificavit, Pignora provexit ac sacro dogmate pavit. Pauperibus carus, inopes in ment gerebat. Consilio gnarus dubitantibus esse solebat. Christ pugil fortis eius dissolue reatus, Vt vivat mortis post morsum glorificatus. Luce bis X quater. I. migrat octobris sine panno E .... quater X quater V semel .... M, anno 1447. This Doctor was a great student, and compiled many books both moral and divine as well in verse as prose. Sta precor intern, qui transis aspice, cerne, Io. Brickles and Isabella his wife. Non nitidis pannis sed ●lentibus ossa johannis Brickles ista mei specus includit requiei. Taliter indutus tumulabere tu resolutus. Dormit in hac cella mea coniux ac Isabel. Apollinaris .... vixit lux nece stratus Et quater x ter. v. I bis et M. sociatis. This Brickles was a linen Draper, a worthy benefactor to this Church, who gave by his Testament certain Tenements to the relief of the poor. All-hallows the less. jesus that suffered bitter passion and pain, In Chamberlain, Agnes, and joan his wives. Have mercy on my sowl john Chamberleyn, And my Wyfs too, Agnes and jone also. The said john deceised the sooth for to say, In the Monyth of Decembyr the fourth day; The year of our Lord God reckoned full evin, A thousand fowr hundryd fowrscor and sevin. Before this time that here ye have seen, Lieth buried the body of William Greene, Barber and Surgeon, William Greene. & late master of that company, And Clerk of this Church years fifty; Which William decesyd the truth for to say; The month of December the fourth day. The year of our Lord God as by books doth appear, On thousand five hundred and eighteen year. Inscriptions in the Stillyard, the house sometime of the German-Merchants. Haec domus est laeta semper bonitate repleta Hic Pax, hic requies hic gaudia semper honesta. Item. Aurum blanditiae pater est, natusque doloris, Qui caret hoc maeret, qui tenet, hic metuit. Item. Qui bonis parere recusat, quasi vitato fumo in flammam incidit. Saint Mary Bothaw. .......... Chich .... vocitatus ..... Robertus omni bonitate refertus. Robert Chichley Lord Maior. Bauperibus largus pius extitit ad mala tardus, Moribus ornatus iacet istic intumulatus. Corpore procerus his Mayor & arte Grocerus Anno milleno C quater x quater anno. ............. This Robert Chichley was Lord Maior An. 1422. he appointed by his Testament, that on his birth day, acompetent dinner should be ordained for 2400 poor men, householders of this city, & every man to have two pence in money. Saint Michael's Crooked lane. . Here lieth entombed in a Chapel of his own foundation, Sir William Walworth Knight, Lord Mayor of London, whose manful prowess against that arch-rebel Wat Tyler and his confederates, is much commended in our English Chronicles: his monument was shamefully defaced in the reign of King Edward the sixth (as many others were) but since it was renewed by the Fishmongers, he died, Anno 1383. as appeareth by this Epitaph. Here under lieth a man of Fame, William Walworth called by name, Fishmonger he was in life time here, And twice Lord Mayor as in books appear, Who with courage stout and manly might, Slew Wat Tyler in King Richard's sight. For which act done and true intent, The King made him Knight incontinent. And gave him arms, as here you see, To declare his fact and Chivalry. He left this life the year of our God, Thirteen hundred fourscore and three odd. john Philpot, Nicholas Brember, and Robert Launde Aldermen, were knighted with him the same day; To this Mayor, the King gave 100 pound land yearly, and to each of the other 40 pound land by year, to them and their heirs for ever. The College of S. Michael founded by W. Walworth. He founded a College to this parish Church, for a Master and nine Priests or Chaplains. Worthy john Lovekin Stockfishmonger of London here is laid, Io Lo●ekin, of Losken, Lord Maior, founder of this Church. Four times of this City Lord Maior he was, if truth be said, Twice he was by election of Citizens then being, And twice by the commandment of his good Lord the King. Chief Founder of this Church in his life time was he, Such lovers of the commonwealth too few there be. Of August the fourth, thirteen hundryth sixty and eight, His flesh to Earth, his soul to God went straight. Sir William Walworth was an apprentice to this john Lovekin. Here lieth wrapped in clay William Wray. The body of William Wray, I have no more to say. Saint Laurence Poultney. This Church was increased with a Chapel of jesus, by one Thomas Cole, The foundation of Corpus Christi College in Candlewickestreet for a Master and a Chaplain; the which Chapel and Parish-Church was made a College of jesus, and of Corpus Christi, for a Master and seven Chaplains, by john Poultney Maior, and was confirmed by Edward the third, in the twentieth of his reign. So that of him it was called, Saint Laurence Poultney, in Candlewickstreet. This College was valued at 79. l. 17. s. 11. d. per ann. and surrendered in the reign of Ed. the sixth. The thrice honourable Lord, Robert Radcliffe, Rob. Radcliffe and his son Henry Earls of Sussex. the first earl of Sussex of that name, and Henry Radcliffe his son and heir, as of his possessions, so of his honours, were first interred in this Collegiate Church: whose relic were afterwards removed to Boreham in Essex. Saint Mary Abchurch. Hac gradiens fortis tua lingua precando laboret, Esto memor mortis dum virtus vivida floret. Gilbert Melits and Christian his wife. Dum vita fueris, quid agas circumspice ment, Nam tu talis eris, qualis concido repente. Corpora Gilberti Melites, celat lapis iste, Eius & uxoris Christine, quos cape Christ. Saint Mary Colechurch. So called of one Cole, The fraternity of S. Katherine. the builder thereof. King Henry the fourth granted licence to William Martial and others, to found a brotherhood of S. Katherine in this Church, to the help of God's service; because Thomas Becket and S. Edmund, Archbishops of Canterbury, were baptised herein. All-hallows Barking. On the North side of this Church was sometime builded a fair Chapel, The foundation of our Lady's Chapel of Barking. founded by king Richard the first, and much augmented by king Edward the first. Edward the fourth gave licence to his cousin john, Lord Tiptost, Earl of Worcester, to found here a Brotherhood for a Master and Brethren: And he gave to the Custos of that Fraternity, the advowson of the Parish Church of Stretham in Surrey, with all the members and appurtenances; the Priory of Totingbeck, and a part of the Priory of Okeborne in Wiltshire, both Prior's Aliens, and appointed it to be called, the King's chantry, In Capella beat Marie de Barking, king Richard the third founded herein a College of Priests; and re-edified the decayed structure. Great concourse of people came hither to our Lady of Barking a pilgrimage; until the College was suppressed and pulled down, in the second of Edward the sixth, and the ground whereupon it stood, employed as a Garden plot. Many funeral Monuments are yet remaining in this Parish Church, which you may read in the Survey of this City. Saint Mary Wolnoth. Here lieth Sir john Arundel knight of the Bath, Sir Io. Arundel knight. and knight Baneret, Receivor of the Duchy ....... Grey, daughter to the Lord Marquese Dorset, who died 8. Febr. the 36. of the reign of king. Hen. the 8. This Sir john Arundel was of the house of Lanherne in Cornwall, a family of great respect in that county. Of which I shall have further occasion to speak when I come to Saint Columbs, where this man's Ancestors lie entombed. The Christian name of his wife (with time worn, or torn out of the brass) was, Elinor, the third daughter of Thomas Grey, marquis Dorset (half brother by the mother to Edward the fifth) by Cicely, Vincent. Catal. daughter and heir of William Bonvile, Lord Harrington. Quid caro letatur cum vermibus esca paratur, Terre terra datur; Caro nascitur & moriatur. Simon Eyre Lord Maior. Orate pro anima Simonis Eyre ......................................... under this defaced Monument Simon Eyre, The Foundation of Leaden Hall and the Chapel. Stow Survey. the son of john Eyre of Brandon in Suffolk, lieth interred. He was Lord Mayor in the year 1445. He built Leaden Hall for a common Granary for the City, and a fair large Chapel on the East side of the Quadrant, over the Porch whereof was painted, Dextra Domini exaltavit me. And on the North wall: Honorandus famosus Mercator Simon Eyre huius operis Fundator. He gave 5000. l. and above the poor Maid's marriages; and did many other works of charity. He died the 18. day of September, 1459. Saint Nicholas Acons. O ye dear friends which shall here after be, Of your devotion please ye to remembyr Ric. pain and Elisabeth his wife. Me Richard pain, which of this noble cite, Somtym whilst I lived, was Citizen and Drapier: And now thro' goddies grace buryd am I here, For mercy to abid after this life present; Tresting by preyer celestial, joy to be my judgement. Wherefore o my Frendys dear, my soul ye like assist, Sixteen children. And eke Elisabyth my wife, and children on by on, And I shall pray God fro pain your souls to resist, The sooner by mediation of blessed Saint Albion. On whose day in jun on M. cccc.lx. and thrice on, Then being the year of God, as hit did him please. Out of this present world did I discese. Here lieth Sir john Brug or Bruges, knight, Lord Mayor of this City, the son of Thomas Brug, or Bruges, of Dimmock in Glocestershire. Who executed that honourable and famous high office, the year 1520. the tweluth of king Hen. the eight. Saint Edmunds Lumbardstreet. Ric. Nordell & Margorie his wife. Richard Nordell lieth buried here, Somtym of London Citizen and Drapier. And Margery his wife, of her progeny, Returnyd to earth and so shall ye, Of the earth we were made and form, And to the earth we been returned, Have yiss in mind and memory Ye * that. yat liven learneth to die. And beholdyth here your destiny, Such as ye earn somtym weren we. Ye shall be dight in yiss array, Be ye ne'er so stout and gay. Therefore Frendys we you prey Make you ready for to they, Yat ye be not forr sin attaint At ye day of judgement. Man the behovyth oft to have * this. yiss in mind Yat thou giveth with yin hand yat shall thou find For widows be sloful, and children beth unkind, Executors be covetoes, and keep all yat they find. If eny body esk where ye deddies goods became, * they. Yey ansqueare: So god me help, and * the holy Communion. halidam, he died a poor man. * think of this. Yink on yiss. Saint peter's Cornhill. Be hit known to all men, An Inscription upon a table sometime chained in this Church. that the yeeries of our Lord God an clxxix. Lucius the fyrst christian king of this land, than called britain, fowndyd the fyrst church in London, that is to say, the Chyrch of Scent Peter upon Cornhyl, and he fowndyd there an Archbishoppies See, and made that Chirch the Metropolitant, and chief Chirch of this kingdom, and so endured the space of cccc yeeries, and more; unto the coming of Sent Austen, an Apostyl of england, the which was sent into the land, by Scent Gregory, the Doctor of the Chirch, in the tim of king Ethelbert, and then was the Archbishoppies See and Pol removyd from the aforeseyd Chirch of S. Peter's upon Cornhyl, unto Derebernaum, that now is called Canterbury, and there it remeynyth to this day. And Millet Monk which came in to this land with Sent Austen was made the fyrst Bishop of London, and his See was made in Powllys Chyrch. And this Lucius king was the fyrst Fowndyr of peter's Chyrch upon Cornhyl. And he reigned king in this Ilond after Brut, M. cc.xl.v. yeeries. And the yeeries of our Lord god a cxxiiii. Lucius was crowned king, and the yeeries of his reign lxxvii yeeries, and he was beryd after sum cronekil at London, and after sum cronekil, he was beryd at Glowcester, at that please where the ordyr of Sent Francies standyth. The truth of this Inscription is questioned in diverse points by some of the learned Senate of our Ecclesiastical Historians, but I will adhere to the common received opinion, that Lucius was the first Christian king of this Island, and indeed of the world, that he founded an Archbishops See here in London: Malmes. lib 1. de Pont. 1. Selden. after which time Christianity was always professed in some part of this kingdom, and especially in Wales. Of which, if it be not troublesome, read these old rhymes. Rob Glocest. Among ye Brutons in Walys was always Christendom, Sitthe hit furst thurghe Lucye Brutons king hit come: And that was tofore Sent Austin's time a cccc yer And about xxiiii, as they writ of oer. jocelin of Fournes seith, that one Thean was the first Archbishop, and the first builder of this Church, by the help of one Cyran, chief Butler unto king Lucius. Eluanus was the second, who built a Library near unto his Church, and converted many of the British Druids (learned men in the Pagan law) to Christianity. The rest until you come to Restitutus, who was the 12. Archbishop, are but only named in my Author. 3 Cadar. Restitutus (saith Bishop Godwin) was at the Council of Arles in France, the year 326. 4 Odious. under Constantius the son of Constantine the great, 5 Conan. and subscribed unto the Decrees of the same Council, 6 Palladius. which he brought over with him. 7 Stephanus. One Decree amongst the rest was, that if a Deacon at the time of his ordering, 8 Il●ut. did protest he intended to marry, 9 Dedwin. it should be lawful for him so to do. 10 Thedred. Restitus himself was married. One Kebius (the son of Solomon, 11 Hillary. a certain Duke of Cornwall) Bishop of Anglesey in Wales, 12 Restitutus. Harpsfeeld Sex. prim. secul c. 16. flourished in his days, and traveled with him into France; and afterwards, went himself into Ireland: where, by his good doctrine, he converted many of that Nation to Christianity. 13 Gwitelin. or Guitelnius. Guitelnius the thirteenth Archbishop, traveled over Seas to the king of little Britain, to crave his aid against the Scots and Picts, which mightily infested this kingdom, insomuch that the Romans rather chose to remit the Britain's their tribute, then to afoard them any more aid. Of which, this Bishop made an oration to his countrymen a little before his departure, who at that time (like the Romans) were wearied out with their often incursions, and altogether afraid to encounter with the enemy, that fierce valiant Scot Scots ever valiant. Imagine his words were wondrous old, from our times, and that they were delivered in this Dialect. Rob. Glocest. Awl ye great of this land to London ycome th'archbishop thus seed Gwithelin benumb. Our leave friends of Rome her to speak to yough me bede, But better will ich have to weep, then to do eny othur deed: For pite hit is of this land, and of our wretchede. Aftur that Maximian our folk a weigh 'gan lead, Alle our knights, and our Swain, and much of our young heed, And othur lands storede therewith, alas the deolfull deed. And ye beth men bet ytaught to shovele, and to spade, To cart, eke, and to plough, and to a fishing wade; To hamer, and to needle, and othur crafts also. Than with sper or with sword battle for to do. When your enemies cometh you ne kunneth but i'll, As shep before UUolues, hough might more woe be And the See biset you all about, hough mow ye than by thenche Othur lig a don and be a slawe, othur i'll, and a drench, Help is there nan with you, but clenlich all this land, All the helping and looking is in othur man's hand. And the Romans beth annoyed of hure travalle so sore, Of peril of See and land eke, hii will come here no more. Hii wolleth hure truage rather leave, that ye beareth him a year, Be konne ye nought lerny thing that ye deed never ere? Applieth your hands to the sper and to the sword also, For strongur men buth there none, and ye would turn thereto Me seeth a bond man's soon somtym a knight become, And of a grom a squire, and aftur knights some: And such ye haveth the form of men, beth men in all wise, And turneth you to manhood, and keepeth your Franchise. So it follows how this Bishop went into little Britain, and entreated Aldroennus the king there, to send over Constantine his brother, with a certain number of men, by whose help the enemy might be expelled, which was granted, and performed accordingly. Fastidius Priscus succeeded him in the government of this See, Fastidius Priscus 4. cent. 1. who writ diverse books of divine learning, mentioned by Bale. He was a sincere expositor of the sacred Scriptures, and a painful Preacher throughout the whole kingdom. Cui abunde suppeditebant, cum perbenigno ingenio excellens memoria: morum integritas et vita incorrupta, quibus cumulatissime caeteros suae gentis praecedebat verbi Praecones. He flourished under Honorius and Theodosius Emperors, Ternckine 15. Lib. in bib. Cott. Mss. Vedinus 16. 420. By an old nameless Chronicle which I have read, one Ternekine succeeded Fastidius, a piercing wise Prelate into matters of state, and in special favour with Aurelius Ambrose King of great Britain: but Vodinus followeth next in the catalogue, a man of singular devotion and good life, who for reprehending King Vortigers unlawful marriage with Rowenna, Hengists' daughter (his lawful wife being then living) was barbarously murdered by the said Hengist, and with him many other Priests, and religious Persons, circa an. 452. After the coming of the Saxons, Godwin de praeful. Ang. the succession of Archbishops was still continued in London for the space of many years (but secretly) even until the time that S. Gregory sent Augustine hither. I find only one of them named, to wit, Theonus who with Thadiocus or Tadiacus (of which I have spoken before in Rochester) Bishop of York, Theon the last Archbishop. taking their Clergy with them, got them into Wales and Cornwall, to the rest of their countrymen, whom the Saxons had lately driven thither: this man did not write himself Archbishop, which is one cause of some controversy amongst our Historiographers. Saint michael's Cornhill. Robert Fabian Sheriff. Here lieth Robert Fabian Alderman and Sheriff of London, who composed a laborious Chronicle of England and France, with the monuments, and the succession of the Lord Majors of London, and died Anno Dom. 1511. for whom this Epitaph was made, now altogether defaced. Like as the day his course doth consume, And the new morrow springeth again as fast, So man and woman by Nature's custom, This life to pass, at last in earth are cast. In joy and sorrow, which here their time do waste. Never in one state, but in course transitory, So full of change is of this world the glory. Hugh Dauset Doctor of Divinity. Hic iacet in tumulo Doctor venerabilis Hugo Dauset olim Rector, vere fideique protector M C quater ten ter ix sit et I sex Aprilisque die ter ay: V semel I migrat ille. Robert Barnes. Here undyr was buried Robart Barnes by name, Citizon of London, and Mercer of the same: And this is written that others may remembyr, How godly he departed the twentyth on of Novembyr. ................... john Boötes. Here lieth the body of john Boötes wiff, Dissoluyd by death to her fyrst matter dust; Who from the cares of this world departed her liff, The twenty third day of the monyth of August, On thousand five hundred and seven, being threescore yeeries old just. Saint Benet's Grass Church. Henry Den and joan his wife. Prey for the saulygs of Henry Den, and joan his wife, their fadyrs, their modyrs, Bredyrs, and good friends, and of all Christian saulygs jesus have mercy, Amen, who departed this lif .... M. cccc.lxxxxi. Saint Bartholomewes' exchange. Tho. Pike Als●rman. Upon an old Tomb the defunct thus seemeth to pray. Exte vite principium, per te vite remedium, In te vite solatium, da nobis vite premium. Genitor ineffabilis, ipsius prolis Paracliti consimilis memento vite fragilis. This monument (by relation) was made to the memory of Thomas Pike, Alderman, who with the assistance of Nicholas You one of the Sheriffs of this City, about the year 1438. new builded this Church. Hic ..... Willielmus Capel .... Maior Lon: Sir William Capell Lord Maior. ... fill johannis Capel ... Neyland in come. ... ob. ... 1509. Out of this broken Inscription I found this whole history how that Sir Richard Empson Knight (a Sieve-makers son in Tocester) and Edmund Dudley Esquire, both Lawyers, were two instruments for King Henry the seventh, to enrich his, and their own coffers; and to empoverish the subjects, by way of calling the richer sort into question, for breach of old, moth eaten, unreviued penal Laws; amongst many others (whom they most treacherously abused, by a false packed jury) they scruzed from this Sir William Capell above sixteen hundred pounds, and some twelve or thirteen years after, they were at him again afresh, for two thousand pounds more; which because he would not pay, he was commanded, by Dudley, Prisoner to the Tower; but by the death of the said King (which happened the same year) he was released both of imprisonment and payment, in which year he also departed this world, in the love of all good men, leaving a great inheritance, and an honourable remembrance to his posterity; and not long after, Empson and Dudley (caterpillars of the commonwealth, hateful to all good people) were beheaded on the Tower hill the 17. of August 1510. leaving behind them nothing they could dispose of for their heirs, save the stain of everlasting infamy. He lieth here entombed in a Chapel of his own Foundation; he was the son of john Capell of Stoke Neyland in the county of Suffolk. Saint Bennets Finke. O God the father of heavyn which art the everlasting light, Have mercy on the sowl of me, Water Knight. poor Water Knight. Who departed this life the monyth of january, In the year of my Redeemer on M .... and fifty. Borne I was in Canterbery in the County of Kent,, Son to on john Knight and Alyse his wife, this is verament. And to be short, all worldly things to confound, Of the Earth I was made, and to the Earth I am returned. Within this Parish was the Hospital of Saint Anthony, The foundation of Saint Anthony's Hospital. sometime a cell belonging to Saint Anthony's of Vienna, founded by King Henry the third, for a Master, two Priests, one Schoolmaster, and twelve poor men: the revenues of this house were much augmented, and the number of the household increased by King Henry the sixth, and Edward the fourth, to which john Tate Mercer was a right bountiful benefactor, who was here entombed under a fair monument, he died Anno 1514. and so was Water Champion Sheriff of London, 1529. who was here buried. The lands, by year, of this Hospital, were valued in the 37. year of Henry the eight, to be 55 l. six shillings, 8 d. Stow in his Survey saith, that one johnson, Schoolmaster of this Hospital, and Prebend of Windsor, spoiled both the School and Hospital, and the Choir of the Church, conveyed away the Plate and ornaments, than the Bells, and lastly put out the Almesmen from their houses, appointing them xii d. the week to each person. The Church of this Hospital is now a preaching place for the French Nation. Saint Martins Outwich. Io. Breux. Ecclesie Rector huius john Breux tumulatus Artibus & doctor vermibus esca datus. Prebendam quondam cicestrensem retinebat Quem Petronille lux tulit e medio. M. C. quater, quinquageno nono sociato, Sic predotatus vertitur in cinerem. Augustine Friars. The foundation of the Augustine Friars. This religious house was founded (in the well meaning devotion of former times) by Humphrey Bohun the fifth of that name, Earl of Hereford and Essex, 1253. and was afterward re-edified by Humphrey Bohun, the ninth of that name, Earl of Hereford and Essex, Lord of Brecknock, and Constable of England, who died Anno 1361. and was buried in the Choir of this Church. This Friary (dedicated to the honour of Saint Augustine) was valued upon the surrender to King Henry the eight, to 57 l. 4 s. per annum. Ri●hard Earl of A●undell. Here sometime did lie entombed the body of Richard Fitz-Alan, the fourth of that name, Earl of Arundel and Surrey, who with Thomas Duke of Gloucester, Thomas Earl of Warwick, Henry Earl of Derby, afterwards King of England, and others, combined and swore each to other, against Robert Vere, Duke of Ireland, and Michael de la Pole Duke of Suffolk, for abusing and misleading the King; for which and some other causes which Richard the second objected against them, some of them were banished, others condemned to perpetual imprisonment: and this Richard beheaded on the Tower hill, Septemb. Anno 1397. the constancy of whose carriage at his arraignment, passage and execution (in all which he did not once discolour the honour of his blood with any degenerous word, look, or action) increased the envy of his death upon his prosecutors. john Vere Earl of Oxford▪ and Aubrey his son. Here likewise lay sumptuously interred, john Vere the xii. Earl of Oxford, and Aubrey his eldest son, who with Sir Thomas Tudensa knight, (who was also here buried) and others their Councillors (either through malice of their enemies, or some offence conceived by King Edward the fourth) were attainted by Act of Parliament, anno primo Edward 4, and put to Execution upon the Tower hill, the 26 of February, 1461. William Lord Berkeley of Berkeley Castle; 〈…〉 his wife honoured with the t●t●es of Viscount, and marquis Berkely, Earl of Nottingham, and Earl Martial of England, was here inhumed; who died, Ann. 1492. This William (as I had it from my deceased friend, Mss. Aug. Vincent) by his deed dated the third of November, Ann. 6. Hen. 7 gave one hundre● pounds to the Prior of this house, for two Masses to be said presently, and for ever, at the Altar of our Lady, and Saint James. Between which Altars the body of his wife joan (who lived but a few days with him, and is not at all mentioned in the Catalogues of Honour) was buried, who was the widow of Sir William Willoughby, before the marriage with the marquis. And to pray for the prosperous estate of the said marquis, and of Anne his then wife, and of Edward Willoughby, Richard Willoughby, Anne Beauchampe, and Elisabeth Willoughby, with all the issue of the said William and joan; and especially for the soul's health of the said joan, and of Katherine her mother, Duchess of Norfolk. Here sometime lay sumptuously entombed, 〈…〉 Duke 〈…〉. the body of Edward Stafford, Duke of Buckingham; who by the sleights and practices of Cardinal Wolsey, fell into displeasure with king Henry the eight; and being condemned of high Treason, for that (among other matters) he had consulted with a Monk (or wizard) about succession of the Crown, was beheaded on the Tower hill, May the 17. 1521. He was a noble Gentleman, exceedingly much lamented of good men. Of whose death, when the Emperor Charles the fifth heard, he said that a Butcher's dog (meaning the Cardinal, a Butcher's son) had devoured the fairest Buck (alluding to the name of Buckingham) in all England. Here was interred the body of Edward, Edward the eldest son of Edward the black Prince the eldest son of Edward the black Prince, by joan his wife, surnamed the fair Maid of Kent; who was borne at Angolesme, Ann. 1375. and died at 7. years of age. Many of the Barons slain at Barnet-field, upon Easterday, 1471. were buried here in the body of the Church; but now their bodies, with these before remembered, and the bodies of an hundred more (mentioned by Stow) of exemplary note and knight's degree, are not only despoiled of all outward funeral ornaments, but digged up out of their Requietories, and dwelling houses raised in the place, which was appointed for their eternal rest. Some part of this Church is at this day yet standing, but in that no monument of this kind is remaining; for it is converted into a Church for the Duch-Inhabitants of this City: who, in that kind, can hardly brook any reverend Antiquity. Saint botolph's Bishopsgate. Hic iacet Cardina uxor Richardi Shoder militis, Cardina Shoder and joan her daughter. & johanna filia eorundem ...... 14. April, 1471. Sub hoc marmore iacet corpus johannis Redman, Io. Redman Rector. quondam huius Ecclesie Rectoris benemerentissimi, qui ab hac luce migravit, tertio die julij, Ann. Dom. 1523. Near to this gate (if we give credit to our own ancient Chronicles) Nennius the son of Hely, Nennius Helius Duke of Loegria. and brother of Lud and Cassibelane, kings over the warlike Britain's, was interred. A man of a magnanimous spirit, heroical, and valiant. Who in the wars between julius Cesar and the Britain's, sought courageously in defence of his country, causing Cesar to fly back with the loss of his sword, which Nennius took from him in single encounter, ●lores Hist. aetal. s. ca 26. and with which he slew Labienus Tribune of the Roman Nobility. But the fifteenth day after this single opposition, he died of a wound received at the hands of Cesar in the same conflict: the year of the world's creation, 3913. before the birth of our alone Saviour, 51. And here (as I have said) was entombed with all funeral state and solemnity: and with him the sword which he took from Cesar the Emperor, as he himself commanded. Which sword was called Reddeath, or rather Readie-death; wherewith if any one had been never so little wounded, Cui nomen erat Cr●●●a Mors, quia null●s ab eo vulneratus vinus e●adeba●. Id. eod. he could never escape with life. Which you shall have in such old verse as came to my hands. Rob. Glocest. At the north gate of London hii buriede this good knight, And buriede in his chest, the sword that was so bright, That he won of the Emperor with great honour enough, That Reddedeth was ycluped, whar with he him slough, I buriede with him hit was, as in tokneyinge Of his Proesse, that he hit wan of on, so heigh a king. I have some other of the same subject, but of later times, if you will read them. But Neminus brother of Cassybalayne Io. Harding, c 44 Full manly fought on julius' times twain. With strokes sore, ayther on other bette, But at the last this Prince sir julius, Crosea mors his sword in shield set, Of the manly worthy Sir Neminus, Which of manly force and might vigorous, The sword he brought away out of the field, As julius it set fast in his shield. Through which stroke, Sir Neminus then died, And buried was at the North gate certain, Of London then, where now is edified London city, royal of all Britain. Thus this worthy knight in his grave befayne, Crosea mors his sword laid by his side, Which he brought from julius that tide. Bale C●nt prima By the testimony of john Bale, this his manly prowess was embellished, and adorned with all good literature, who affirmeth that he writ an excellent History of the original, pedigree, and progress of his own Nation. Will. Prat Of your charity say a Pater Noster and an Ave, For the soul of William Pratte somtym of Pekerle. On whose soul jesus have mercy. Saint Helen's. This was the Church to the Nunnery, The foundation of the Nunnery of S. Helen. founded first by William Basin, Deane of Paul's (who lieth here buried) about the year 1212. and afterwards by another William Basin (one of the Sheriffs of London, in the second year of Edward the second) augmented both in building and revenue. For which he is also holden to be a Founder. This religious house was dedicated to the honour of Saint Helen, and replenished with black Nuns. There was a partition betwixt the Nun's Church, and the Parish-Church, but now the whole Church belongeth to the Parish. It was surrendered the 25. of November, the 30. of Henry the 8. being valued at 314. l. 2. s. 6. d. of yearly revenues. Orate pro animabus johannis Crosby Militis Ald. atque tempore vite Maioris Staple ville Caleis; Sir Io. Crosby Mayor of the Staple. & Agnetis uxoris sue, ac Thome, Richardi johannis, johannis, Margarete, & johanne liberorum eiusdem johannis Crosby militis ille obiit, 1475 & illa 1466. quorum animabus propitietur Deus. This Crosby was Sheriff of London, the year 1470. He was the builder of Crosby house. He gave five hundred Marks towards the reforming of this Church, which was bestowed (saith Stow) with the better. As appeareth by his Arms both in the stone-worke, roof of timber, and glazing; it is a fable said of him, to be named Crosby, of being found by a Crosse. Not long after the second foundation of this house, by William Basin the second, I find one Henry Gloucester, Citizen and Goldsmith of London (descended by the mother's side from the second Founder) to be here interred, approved by his last Will and Testament, written in the Latin tongue (which was usual in former times) with which, for form and Antiquities sake, I think it not much amiss to acquaint my Reader. In nomine patris & silij & Spiritus sancti, Mss. in bib. Cot Amen. Ego Henricus de Gloucestre, civis & Aurifaber London, condo Testamentum meum in hunc modum. Lego corpus meum ad sepeliendum apud Sanctam Elenam London; ubi priorissa et conventus eiusdem domus ibidem eligere voluerint. Item lego Elisabeth filie me, Moniali eiusdem domus, Sancte Elene, sex solid. Item lego Priorisse et Conuentui Sancte Elene undecim Marcas Argenti annuatim ad inveniend. duos Capellanos Divina celebrare in eadem Ecclesia Sancte Elene, pro anima mea, et anima Margarete quondam uxoris me, ac pro animabus Wille●mi patris mei, et Willelme matris me, sil. Thome de Basings, fratris Willelmi de Basings Fundatoris, etc. Residuum vero lego ad sustentationem Iohannis filij mei. Et si idem Iohannes filius meus sine prole obierit, integre remaneat johanne filie me et heredibus de corpore suo legitime procreatis. Item lego Elisabeth silly me duas Schopas ahenas. Item lego johanne Adynet nepte me quinque solidos. Dat. et act. London. die jovis prox. post festum Sancti Andree Apostoli, Ann. Dom. 1332. Reg. Regis, Ed. 3.6. Probatum fuit hoc presens Testamentum, xv. Kal. januarij, Ann. Dom. 1332. Ann. 6. Ed. 3. Saint Trinities in Leaden-Hall. This Chapel was first built by Simon Eyre, before remembered, who left livelihood to the Draper's sufficient, and withal a charge, That they should within one year after his decease, establish perpetually a Master or Warden, five secular Priests, six Clerks, and two Queristers, to sing daily divine Service by note in the same for ever, which was never performed. Not long after this, The Foundation of a Brotherhood of 〈◊〉. Priests in leaden-hall Chapel. in the year, 1466. Ed. 4.6. William Rouse, john R●sby, and Thomas Ashby Priests, founded a Fraternity in the same Chapel, dedicated to the blessed Trinity, for threescore Priests; some of which, every Market day in the forenoon, did celebrate divine Service, to such Market people, as would repair to prayer. The Priory of Christ-Church by Aldgate. The foundation of the Priory of Christ-Church Aldgate. This Priory was founded by Matilda, Queen, wife to Henry the first, the year 1108. for Canons Regular. The first Prior hereof was one Norman, and he was the first Canon Regular in all England. This house was founded (saith Stow) in the Parishes of Mary Magdalene, S. Michael, Saint Katherine, and the holy Trinity. All which are now but one Parish of Christ-Church, in old time called, Holy Rood Parish. She gave unto this Church, and those that served God therein, the Port of Aldgate, and ●he Soak thereunto belonging, with two parts of her rent, which she received out of the City of Exeter. It became in process of time rich in lands and ornaments, and passed all the Priories in London. This Priory was surrendered to the king in the month of july, 1532. The Canons were sent to other houses of their own order, and the said Priory with the appurtenances, King Henry gave to Sir Thomas Audley, Baron Audley of Walden, and Lord Chancellor of England: which came by marriage of the Lord Audleies daughter, and heir unto Thomas, not long since, Duke of Norfolk, and was then called the Duke's place. The Monuments which sometimes were in this Church, are set down by that laborious Antiquary, Io Stow, in his Survey. Saint Dunstan's in the East. Will. pain. Clausus in hoc tumulo Gulielmus Payne requiescit, Quem sacer edituum foverat iste locus. Clarum cui virtus, Ars et cui Musica nomen Edwardi quarti Regis in Ede dabat. Si tibi sit pietas, Tumuli si cura, viator, Hoc optesilli quod cupis ipse tibi. Ob. 1508. Clement Town. Here lieth Clement Town .... 1540 ... whose obiit shall for ever be observyd in this church, and his Mass always upon the day following, whose soul and his two wyfs souls, Elisabeth and Elisabeth, and all their child's souls jesus take to his glorious mercy. Amen. Saint Olaves Hart street. Qu. A. D. T. D. P. os. nguis. irus. risti. ulcedine. avit. H S M Changed M L Asdruball I was, so be ye, as I am, you shall be; What I gave, that I have, what I spent, that I had: Thus I count all my cost, what I left, that I lost. Within this parish was a Friary or Brotherhood founded by Ralph Hosiar and William Sabernes, The foundation of the Crouched Friars. Anno 1298. These Friars by their order were called Fratres sanctae crucis, Brethren of the holy cross, so denominated of wearing a Cross (anciently called a Crouch) upon their garments, and of bearing the cross for the badge and Arms of their house. This house was valued at the suppression to 52 l. 13 s. 2 d. of annual profits. A Petition to Secretary Cromwell against the Prior of this house, a little before the dissolution thereof. pleaseth it your honourable mastoreship to be advertesid, Ex quibusel. Collect. in sepe dict bib. Cot. that in the time of Lent last passed, your continual orator john Bartelote, with others, to the number of five persons of good conversation, found the Priore of the Crossyd Friores in London, The Priore of Crouched Friars found in bed with hi● wench. at that time, being in bed with his whore both naked about xi. of the clock in the forenoon upon a Friday; at which time the said Priore to the intent his misdemeanour and shameful fact should not be known, whereby he should sustain open shame, kneeled upon his knees, and not only desired your said orator and his company to keep secret his said act, and not to disclose in any wife the same, but for the same intent freely, and of his own motion, gave amongst them about xxx l. which he then was possessed of; of the which sum your Orator had by the said gift about seven l. And also the said Priore promised to give amongst the said company xxx l. more by a certain day, and after by mediation of friends of the said Priore, the said xxx l. was released to the sum of vi l. which six pounds the said Priore bound himself to pay to the said Orator by his Bill obligatory at a certain day in the same limeted: Yet this notwithstanding, for by cause your said Orator for non payment of the said vi l. did arrest the said Priore, he hath so heinously informed the Lord Chancellor against your Orator, that he will only put him to shewertie, making the premises a heinous Robbery, saying openly that your Orator is worthy to be hanged but also will by his high authority, compel your Orator to repay again to the said Priore the some of xxx l. unless your most charetable goodness be therein otherwise showed. It may therefore please your good Mastershipe of your abundant goodness to provide that the premese may be duly examined, according to equity; for this is the very and hold truth in the same. And your said Oratore shall pray to God for your honour and preservation long to endure. By your humble Oratore to his power during his life, john Bartelote. Saint Katherine's by the Tower: Foundation of S. Katherine's Hospital. This was the Church belonging to the Hospital, dedicated to the honour of Saint Katherine, founded by Queen Maud, the wife of King Stephen, and much augmented by Eleanor the wife of King Edward the first, and Philip wife to King Edward the third, who left to it sufficient livelihood: for a Master, 3 Brethren, Chaplains, and 3 Sisters, ten poor women, and six poor Clerks. This house was valued at the general suppression, at 315 l. 14 s. 2 d. per annum. john Holland Duke of Excester. Here under an Ancient monument ●ouly defaced, lieth entombed the body of john Holland, Duke of Exeter, Earl of Huntingdon, and of ivory in Normandy, Lord of Sparre, Admiral of England, Ireland, and Aquitaine, Lieutenant General of the Duchy of Aquitaine, Fellow of the honourable order of the Garter, and Constable of the Tower of London, as he writ in his stile; Ca●al. of honour. stow Annal. when Henry the fifth, in the fifth of his reign, was to go over into Normandy, this puissant john Holland, as then but Earl of Huntingdon, was sent before to scour the seas, who meeting with nine Carracks of Genoa, which were going to aid the French King, fought with them, and sunk six of them, and took the other three, with great store of money and treasure, and brought them, with his prisoners, to the King. This battle was fought ne'er Harflew upon the fall of the River Seyne into the narrow seas, of which an old versifier Harding. They fought full sore, afore the water of Sayen, With Carracks many, well stuffed and arrayed, And many other ships great of Hispayn, Barges Balyngers and Galleys unfrayed, Which proudly came upon our Ships unprayed. And by th'even their sails availed were set, Their enemies slain in battle, and sore bet. And many dryent, were that day in the Sea, That as our fleet road there then always, Unto the feast next of his Nativitee, The Body's fleet among our Ships each day. Full piteous was, and to see them ay, That thousand were twenty, as they then told, That taken were in that same battle bold. This valiant brave Duke died full of years the fifth of August, in the 25. year of King Henry the sixth, Anno 1447. Here lie entombed by him, his two wives; the first was Anne, Anne the first wife of john, Duke of Exeter. daughter of Edmund, Earl Stafford by his wife Anne, the heir of Thomas of Woodstock, Duke of Gloucester, by whom he had issue, Henry Duke of Exeter. She had been formerly married unto Edmund Mortimer Earl of March and Ulster. I cannot find the time of her death. His second wife here entombed was also Anne, Anne the second wife of john, Duke of Exeter. daughter of Io. Montague, the third of that name, Earl of Salisbury, who formerly had been twice married, to Sir Richard Hanckford, & to Sir john Fitz-Lewis Knights. She died the 27 of November, 1457. Here lieth likewise entombed, Constance, Duchess of Norfolk. the body of Constance, sister of the foresaid john, Duke of Exeter, daughter of john Holland, first of that name, Duke of Exeter, married to Thomas Lord Mowbray, (the son of Thomas, who died in banishment) Duke of Norfolk, Earl of Nottingham, and Earl Martial of England, and remarried to Sir john Grey, Lord Grey of Ruthin; she died the sixteenth of Henry the sixth. New Abbey in East-Smithfield. Before the foundation of this Abbey, Catal. of Hon. Vincent. The foundation of Eastminster to the honour of God and our Lady of Grace. there stood in the same place, a little Chapel within a Coemitorie or Churchyard dedicated to the honour of God, by Ralph Stratford Bishop of London, wherein were interred innumerable many of such persons as died in the first great Pestilence, the 23 of King Edward the third. Now the said King liking well this plot of ground, (and having before in a tempest on the sea, and peril of drowning, made a vow to build a Monastery to the honour of God, and our Lady of Grace, (if God would grant him grace to come safe to land) builded here a Monastery, wherein he placed white Monks of the Cistercian order; Stow Survey. which house at the general suppression, was valued at 546 l. 10 d. yearly. The King's store-house for victual, and for baking of Biscuits to serve his Majesty's Ships, is built in the same place where this Abbey stood. The Minories. Here was an Abbey of Nuns, The foundation of the Abbey of S. Clare, Nuns, called the Minories. of the order of Saint Clare, founded by Blanch, Queen of Navarre, and her husband Edmund, Earl of Lancaster, Leicester, and Derby, brother to King Edward the first, in the year 1293. This house was valued to dispend yearly 418 l. 8 s. 5 d. and was surrendered by Dame Elizabeth Savage, the last Abbess there, unto King Henry the eight, in the 30 of his reign. Saint botolph's Algate. In this Church over a vault, is a fair tomb of Alabaster, curiously wrought, having these lines following engraven thereon. The burial place of s●me of the honourable family of the Darcies. Here lieth Thomas Lord Darcy, of the north, and sometime of the order of the Garter. Sir Nicholas Carew knight, sometime of the Garter; Lady Elizabeth Carew daughter to Sir Francis Brian Knight, and Sir Arthur Darcy Knight, younger son to the above named Lord Darcy, and Lady Mary his dear wife, daughter to Sir Nicholas Carew, knight, who had ten sons and five daughters: Here lie Charles, William and Philip, Mary and Ursula, sons and daughters to the said Sir Arthur and Mary his wife: whose souls God take to his infinite mercy, Amen. This Thomas Lord Darcy, and Sir Nicholas Carew, (who was also master of the King's Horse) were both beheaded on the Tower hill; Stow. Annal. the first because he was one (howsoever constrained thereunto by the Rebels) of the commotion in Yorkshire, Anno 1536. the second, for being of council with Henry, marquis of Exeter, and Henry Poole Lord Montague, who were indicted, and found guilty of high Treason, for devising to maintain, promote, Cardinal Poole. and advance, one Reginald Poole late Deane of Exeter, enemy to the King, beyond the sea, and to deprive the King, Anno 1539. Sir Arthur Darcy here mentioned, was first buried in the new Abbey of Eastminster, wherein he deceased; Sir Edward Darcy knight, son of Sir Arthur, lieth with his noble Ancestors in the same vault; but he died but lately. Io Clerk Bishop of Bath and Welles. Hic iacet Iohannes Epis Bathon & Wellensis, qui cum plures insignes Legationes .... tandem obijt in Legatione Clevensis .... januar. M. ccccc.xl. cuius anime propitietur Altisimus. Godwin Catal. of Bishops. This john Clerk, Doctor of Divinity and master of the Rolls, was brought up in Cambridge, and consecrated to his Bishopric, the year 1523. A man much employed in Ambassages. He died as before, and was first buried in the Minories, being poisoned (as it was supposed) in Germany, when he went Ambassador to the Duke of Cleve, to render a reason of the King's divorce from the Lady Anne of Cleve his sister. The foundation of a Knightengild or Confrery without Aldgate. King Edgar established here without Aldgate a Knightengield or Confrery, for thirteen knights or soldiers of good desert to him and the realm: the like by supposition saith Verstegan, was in Knightriders street, being the place where the residence or meeting of such Knights-riders with the King might be kept. Saint Mary Bethlem. The foundation of S. Mary Bethlem. This Hospital of Saint Mary of Bethlem, was founded by Simon Fitz-Mary, one of the Sheriffs of London, in the year 1246. He founded it to have been a Priory of Canons, with Brethren and Sisters; it is now an Hospital for distracted people, who are here received and kept, yet not without charges to their kindred, or friends: Saint Mary Spittle. This Hospital was founded by Walter Brune Mercer, and Sheriff of London, The foundation of S. Marry Spi●le; and Rosia his wife, A.D. 1235. it was dedicated to the honour of jesus Christ, and his mother the perpetual Virgin Mary, by the name of Domus Dei, and Beat Marie, extra Bishopsgate. This Hospital surrendered to king Henry the eight, was valued to dispend 478 l. 6. s. 8. d. wherein were found, besides ornaments of the Church, and other goods pertaining to the Hospital, one hundred and fourscore Beds well furnished for receipt of the poor. This place is now best known by the Sermons there preached on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday in Easter week. Saint leonard's Shoreditch. So called of the Sordiches Lords thereof: Sir Io. Sordich Lord of Sordich. Ex Mss. in ●ib Cott. one of which family, namely, Sir john Sordich knight, flourished in the reign of king Edward the third; as appears by this deed of grant to his Chaplain William Croston, here resident. Sciant, etc. nos joh. de Sordich Miles et Elena uxor mea, et Nicholaus de Sordich dedimus Will. de Crostone Capellano, omnia illa Red. terr. que habuimus in Hackney, tam in Dominio quam in Seruitio, etc. Ann. Reg. Regis Edwardi tertij duodecimo. This knight served in the wars under Ed. the third in France; and is remembered in our Annals, Ann. 14. Ed. 3. Orate pro animabus Humfredi Starky militis, Sir Humphrey Starky knight, and Isabella his wife nuper capitalis Baronis de Scaccario Domini Regis Henrici septimi et Isabelle uxoris eius, et omnium amicorum suorum, quorum, etc. ...... Erlington modo miles Et Margareta coniux ....... Sir john Erlington and Margaret his wife. ................ Sit pietate dei vita perhennis ei M. C. quater x semel ......... Under this defaced Monument, Sir john Erlington knight, with Margaret his wife, daughter and heir to Thomas Lord Itchingham, widow to William Blount, son and heir to Walter Blount, the first Lord Mountioy, lie entombed. In this Church diverse honourable persons lie buried, of whom (because they died but in these later days) I shall speak hereafter. The plates with the Inscriptions of such Monuments as were of more Antiquity, were all taken away for covetousness of the brass, by one Doctor Hanmer (as I have it by relation of the Inhabitants) Vicar of this Church, which he converted into coin, and presently after (ashamed belike of such a detestable act) went over into Ireland, and there ignominiously ended his days. The Priory of Holywell. This was an house of black Nuns, The foundation of Holywell. anciently founded by a Bishop of London, and consecrated to the honour of God, S. john Baptist. Stephen Gravesend, Bishop of this Diocese, about the year 1318. was hereunto a great benefactor. Sir Thomas Lovel knight of the Garter, in the reigns of King Henry the seventh, and of Henry the eighth, with whom he was of Council, was another benefactor, not only in building a beautiful Chapel, wherein his body was interred, but in many other goodly buildings, and endowing the same with lands. In most of the glass windows of this house, these two verses following (not long since to be read) were curiously painted: Sir Thomas Louel● Knight. All the Nuns in Holywel, Pray for the soul of Sir Thomas Lovel. He died the 25. of May at Endfield, Ann. 1524. This Priory was valued at the suppression, to have of Lands two hundred ninety three pounds ten shillings three pence by year, which with the house were surrendered, Ann. 1539. the one and thirtieth of Henry the eight. In ●ib. Cott. I find in a pedigree of the right noble Lord Francis, now Earl of Rutland, that Sir George Manors knight, Lord Ros of Hamlake, being with King Henry the eight, at the siege of Turney and Turwine, there took a grievous sickness, whereupon he languished, in the same year of this their expedition into France; which was Ann. Dom. 1513. And according to his will was here entombed in the Chapel, and near to the high Altar of this Priory. This Sir George Manors was the eldest son of Sir Robert Manors knight, by Eleanor his wife, the daughter and heir of Thomas Lord Ros of Hamlake: he married Anne (the daughter and heir of Sir Thomas, Saint Leoger, or Sellinger knight, begotten of his wife Anne, Duchess of Exeter, sister to king Edward the fourth) by whom he had issue, Thomas Manors knight of the Garter, Lord Ros of Hamelake, Belvoir, and Trusbut, and Earl of Rutland, the first of that Surname. As also Oliver, Anthony, Richard, john, Elisabeth, Katherine, Eleanor, Cicely, or Cicely, and Anne. This house, with a circuit of ground thereunto adjoining, took denomination of a certain sweet, wholesome and clear fountain, or well, within the compass thereof; which for the virtue of the water was amongst the common people reputed and called holy. It is now decayed, and indeed quite spoiled with soil, dung, and other filthiness, purposely there laid, for the heighthening of the ground for garden plots. The Priory of Clerkenwell. This Priory was likewise so called of a Well not far from the West end of the Church of the said Priory. Which Well took name of the Parish Clerks in London, who of old time (saith Stow in his Survey of the said City) were accustomed there yearly to assemble, and to play some large history of holy Scripture. This Priory was founded in the year of our redemption, one thousand one hundred, or thereabouts, by jordan Briset, a wealthy and devout Baron, the son of Rause, the son of Brian Briset, who gave fourteen acres of ground lying in the field near unto the said Clerks well, to build thereupon an house for religious Votaries, black Nuns. Which donation I have read depensild upon a table in the Church, which by the fall of the Steeple (which took down with it a great part of the Church) was battered all to pieces. The said jordan with Muriell his wife (for she is set down to be co-foundresse with him) dedicated this their sacred structure to the honour of God, and the Assumption of the blessed Virgin Mary. Richard Beauveyes Bishop of London, about the year 1112. gave certain Lands at Muswell hill to the said Nunnery, now in the possession of Sir Nicholas Roe knight, Lib in lib. C●ll confirmed by the Cartulary of king Stephen; as it is in the Lieger book of the said house. Sciatis me confirmasse, etc. locum suum, etc. et quicquid Ricardus Episcopus London et jordanus fil●us Bricij, et alij Barones mei rationabiliter in Elemosinam dederunt. Henry the second, he confirms the scite of the house and land thereunto adjoining, thus. Sciatis me concessisse, etc. Ecclesie beat Marie de fonte Clericorum, et Monialibus ibidem deo seruientibus omnia subscripta, etc. scilicet ex dono jordanis de Briseta et Murielis uxoris eius locum in quo habitant, infra ambitum muri earum, et terram quam extra habent circa muros earum in eodem campo, etc. The names of the Prioresses of this house from the foundation unto the dissolution, as they are set down in the same book, were these. First Christiana. 2. Ermegard. 3. Hawisia. 4. Eleonora. 5. Alesia. 6. Cecilia. 7. Margery Whatvile. 8. Isabell. 9 Alice Oxeney. 10. Amice Marcy. 11 Denys Bras. 12. Margery Bray. 13. joan Lewkenor. 14. joan Fulham. 15. Katherine Braybroke. 16. Luce Attewood. 17. joan Viene. 18. Margaret Bakwell. 19 Isabella Wentworth. 20. Margaret Bull. 21. Agnes Clifford. 22. Katherine Greene. 23. Isabella Hussey. And the last Lady Prioress of this house was Isabella Sackvile, of the right honourable Family of the Sackviles, the Ancestors of Sir Edward Sackvile, now Baron of Buckhurst, and Earl of Dorset. She lieth buried under a marble stone in the Church of the Nunnery near unto the high Altar, whereupon this Inscription, or Epitaph, is engraven in brass. Hic iacet Isabel Sackvile, Isabella Sackvile Prioress of S. mary's Clerkenwell. quae fuit Priorissa nuper Prioratus de Clerkenwel, tempore dissolutionis eiusdem Prioratus, quae fuit 21. Octobris, Ann. Dom. Millesimo quingentesimo septuagesimo: et Ann. Reg. Regin. Elisab. Dei gra. etc. duodecimo. She made her last Will and Testament (as I find it in the Prerogative office) the nineteenth day of February, in the said twelfth year of Queen Elizabeth, wherein she bequeathes her body to be buried in Clarkenwell Church, and ordains the right honourable the Lord of Buckhurst her Cousin, the overseer of this her Will, if it shall please his Lordship to take the pains: She lived many years in the various days of diverse Princes: for I find in the pedigree of the Earl of Dorset, that one William Sackevyle, by his Will and Testament, dated the tenth day of August, in the 21. year of King Henry the seventh, gave to his Niece Isabella Sackvyle a certain Legacy, she being as then a Nun in the Priory of Clerkenwell. jordan Briset the foresaid Founder, jordan Briset & Muriell his wife. died the 17. of September, about the year of our Lord, 1124. and Muriell his wife, the first of May next following: they were buried both together in the Chapterhouse of this Church, now called the old Vestry. In the 〈…〉 the Chancel is a fair marble Tomb, with the 〈◊〉 of a dead man lying upon his shroud: . the most artificially cut ●n stone that ever man beheld; all the plates of brass are stolen away, only some few pieces remaining, containing these words. ..... Hospitalitate inclytus, genere preclarus ...... Hanc Vrnam offcij causa ....... Ecce quem cernis tuo nomini semper devotum Suscipe in sinum Virgo Maria tuum. Spes me non fallat quam in te semper habebam Virgo da facilem .......... This Monument was erected to the memory of Sir William Weston knight, Lord Prior of Saint john's jerusalem, at the time of the dissolution of the said Priory, to whom Henry the eight for his maintenance had allowed one thousand pound of yearly pension during his life. Of which sum he received never a penny: for so it fortuned, that upon the seventh day of May, 1540 being Ascension day, and the same day of the dissolution of the house, he was dissolved by death, which struck him to the heart, at the first time when he heard of the dissolution of his order. All the Funeral Monuments of Antiquity in this Church (which were many) as you may read in Stows Survey, are quite defaced. This Priory was valued at the suppression to be possessed of 282. l. 16. s. 5. d. of yearly revenues. Within the close of this Nunnery is a fair spacious house, built of late by Sir Thomas chaloner knight deceased: upon the Frontispiece whereof these verses were depensild, now altogether obliterated. Casta fides superest, velatae tecta sorores Ista relegatae desuruere licet: Nam venerandus Hymen hic vota ingalia seruat Vestalemque focum ment fovere studet. The Nunnery (now the inheritance of the right honourable Sir William Cavendish knight, Lord Ogle, Viscount Mansfield, and Earl of Newcastle) being opposite to this new brave building, ministered (belike) occasion and matter for the making of this said Inscription. This Hexamiter following is painted under a Sun dial in the entrance unto the Nunnery. Non aliter pereo species quam futilis Vmbrae. The Priory of S. john of jerusalem. jordan Briset having first founded the Priory of Nuns here by Clerkenwell, as aforesaid, bought of the said Nuns ten Acres of ground, giving them for the said ten Acres, twenty Acres of land in his Lordship of Willinghale, or Wellinghall in Kent. Upon which ground (lying near unto the said Priory) he laid the foundation of a religious structure for the knight's Hospitalers of S. john of jerusalem. These following are the words out of the Register book of the Deeds of the said house, written by one john Stilling-fleete, a brother of the house, circa ann. 1434. to the end that their benefactors names being known, Mss. in bib. Cot. they may be daily remembered in their prayers. jordanus Briset Baro tempore regis Hen. primi circa an. Dom. 110. fundavit domum ac Hospitale S. john's de Clerkenwel: Hic etiam erat Fundator domus Monialium de Clerkenwel, ac ab eis emit decem acras terre, super quas dictum Hospitale ac domum fundavit: & pro illis decem acris terre, dedit illis Monialibus viginti acras terre in Dominico suo de Willinghale in come. Cant. etc. In ye year of Criste (as I have the words out of an old Mss) 1185. ye vi. Ides of Merche, In bib Cott. ye dominical letter being F, ye church of ye Hospital of S: john's jerusalem, was dedicated to ye honour of S. john baptist by ye worschypfull father Araclius Patriarch, of ye resurrection of Christ, ye same day was dedycatyd ye high Altr●, and ye alter of S. john Evangelist by ye same patriarch. The said Heraclius in the same year, dedicated the Church of the new Temple, as hereafter is spoken. Within a short time, this Hospital began to flourish, for infinite were the donations of all sorts of people to this Fraternity, as in the Beadroul of their benefactors is specified; but above all their Benefactors, they held themselves most bound to Roger de Mowbray, whose liberality to their order was so great, that by a common consent in their chapter, they made a decree, that himself might remit and pardon any of the Brotherhood whomsoever, in case he had trespassed against any of the statutes and ordinances of their order, confessing and acknowledging withal, his offence and error. And also the knights of this order granted, in token of thankfulness to john de Mowbray, Lord of the Isle of Axholme, the successor of the foresaid Roger, that himself and his successors, in every of their covents & assemblies, as well in England, as beyond seas, should be received & entertained always in the second place next to the King. Thus through the bounty both of Princes & private persons, they rose to so high an estate, and great riches, that after a sort (saith Camden) they wallowed in wealth; Camd. in A●dl. for they had about the year of our Lord 1240. within christendom, nineteen thousand Lordships or Manors: like as the Templars nine thousand (the revenues and rents whereof fell afterwards also to these Hospitallers.) And this estate of theirs grown to so great an height, made way for them to as great honours; so as the Priore of this house was reputed the prime Baron of the land, being able with fullness & abundance of all things to maintain an honourable port. Robertus Botill Prior, Hospita●u Sancti Iohan●● jerusalem in Anglia: primus Baro regni Angliae & consiliarius Rog●● 〈◊〉 Arch Turris London secund● parspat A●●o 10. Ed 4 ●. 13. And thus they flourished for many years in Lordly pomp, until a Parliament begun the 18. of April, 1540 Anno 32. Henry 8. their corporation was utterly dissolved, the King allowing to every one of them, only a certain annual pension during their lives; as you may read in the Annals of England. The value of this foundation in the King's books, was 3385 l. 19 s. 8 d. of ancient yearly rent. This Priory Church and house was preserved from spoil, or down pulling, so long as Henry the 8 reigned, but in the 3 of King Ed. the sixth, the Church for the most part, with the great Bell-tower (a most curious piece of workmanship, graven, gilt and enamelled, to the great beautifying of the City, saith Stow) was undermined and blown up with Gunpowder; the stone whereof was employed in building of the Lord Protectors house in in the Strand. The Charter-house. The foundation of ●he Charterhouse. Sir Walter Manny Knight of the Garter, Lord of the town of Manny in the Diocese of Cambrey, beyond the seas; in that raging pestilence in the 23 of King Ed. the 3. when Churches & Churchyards in London might not suffice to bury the dead, purchased a piece of ground in this place called Spittle croft, containing 13 acres and a Rodd, and caused the same to be enclosed for burials, and dedicated by Ralph Stratford Bishop of London; in which place, and in the same year, more than 50000 persons were buried, in regard of such a multitude here interred: he caused a Chapel here to be builded, wherein Offerings were made, and Masses said for the souls of so many Christians departed. And afterwards about the year 1371. he caused here to be founded, an house of Carthusian Monks, which he called the Salutation: which house at the dissolution, was valued to be yearly worth, six hundred forty two pounds, four pence half penny. Stow Survey. john Stow saith, that he had read this Inscription following, fixed on a stone cross, sometime standing in the Charter-house Church yard. Anno Domini M. ccc.xl.ix. Regnante magna pestilentia, consecratum fuit hoc Cemiterium, in quo & infra septa presentis Monasterij, sepulta fuerunt mortuorum Corpora, plusquam quinquaginta millia, preter alia multa abhinc usque ad presence, quorum animabus propitietur Deus. Amen. Ex Mss. in bib. Cot. This inscription upon the foresaid Stone Cross, as also the relation before, was taken out from the words of his charter, the substance whereof followeth. Walterus Dns. de Many, etc. cum nuper pestilentia esset tam grandis & vi●lenta in civitate London quod Cemiteria Ecclesiae civitatis non possunt sufficere pro sepultura a personarum in eadem pestilentia discedentia, nos moti pietate habentes respectum, etc. Purchased 13. acres of land without Smithfield Bars, in a place called Spittle croft, and now called new Church-Haw, for the burial of the persons aforesaid, and have caused the place to be blessed by Ralph then Bishop of London: in which place, plus quam Quinquaginta millia personarum de dicta pestilentia morientium sepulti fuere. And there for our Lady's sake we founded a Chapel, & of the holy order of the Cartusians, made there a Monastery, by consent of the Prior or Cartuse Maior in Savoy, etc. for the health of King Edward the third, and Dame Margaret his wife: Hijs Testibus. john Hastings of Penbroke, Humphrey Bohun of Hereford: Edmund mortimer of Mar●h, and William de Monteacuto of Sarum, Earles. john de Barnes Mayor of London; William de Walworth, and Robert de Gayton Sheriffs. Dat apud London 20 Martij, Anno Regni Reg. Ed. 3.45. The death of the Founder. Sir Walter Manny, or the Many, the foresaid Founder, was buried here in his own Church, who deceased in the same year that he laid his foundation, 137●. His death was much lamented, by the King, the Nobility, and commons of all England; for, with singular commendations, he had for a long time served under Edward the third in the French wars, and was employed by him upon several Embasies, and his truth and good council was ever much available to the whole state of the kingdom. His obsequies were performed with great solemnity; King Edward the third, and all his children, with the greatest Prelates, and Lord Barons of the kingdom, being there present. Margaret, Lady Many, and Du●chesse of Norfolk. His wife Margaret, was here entombed with him; by whom he had issue, Thomas Many, who in his youth was drowned in a Well at Detford in Kent, and Anne, than his only daughter, and heir, married to john, Lord Hastings, Earl of Penbroke: Margaret, Survey. 〈◊〉 Lady Many, saith john Stow, here interred, (yet the Catalogue of Honour will have her to be buried in the Minories) died the 24. of March, 1399. she was the only daughter of Thomas of Brotherton, Earl of Norfolk, and Marshal of England, second son of King Edward the first, and her father's only heir after the death of her brother Edward, which happened in the same year that his father departed the world. She was for the greatness of her birth, her large revenues and wealth, created Duchess of Norfolk for term of life: she had been first married to john Lord Segraue, Vin●e●t C●t●l. Norf. and her last husband was the foresaid Sir Walter Manny. Here sometime was interred the body of Philip Morgan, Doctor of Law, Philip Morgan Bishop of Ely. Chancellor of Normandy, and Bishop of Ely; a very wise man, who with great commendations governed that See nine years six months, and four days, and departed this life at Bishops-Hatfield, October 25. 1434. Many funeral monuments were in this Church, Suttons' Hospital. as you may find them mentioned in the Survey of London. This religious house is now turned into an Hospital, consisting of a Master, a Preacher, a Free-school with a Master and an Usher, fourscore decayed gentlemen Soldiers, and forty scholars, maintained with sufficient clothing, meat, drink, lodging, and wages; besides Officers and Ministers to attend upon them all; so that the whole number now in the house with the attendants, is one hundred and fourscore. The greatest gift that ever at any time in England, no Abbey (at the first foundation thereof) excepted, or therewith to be compared, being the gift of one man only, whose name was Thomas Sutton of Castle Camps, in the County of Cambridge Esquire, borne at Knaith in the County of Lincoln, who lived to the age of 79 years, and deceased the 12. day of December, 1611. somewhat before this his famous Foundation was fully accomplished. Great Saint Bartholomewes'. This Priory was founded by one Rahere, The foundation of great Saint Bartholomewes'. a pleasant conceited witty gentleman, and a Courtier in the reign of King Henry the first, which he dedicated to the honour of God and Saint Bartholomew, and placed therein black Canons, or Canons regular; himself became their first Prior; his foundation was confirmed in these words. 〈◊〉 Arch Tuvr● London. Ca●t. Ant. higher ●, l. Henricus Rex, etc. Sciatis me concessisse, & presenti carta me confirmasse, Ecclesie beati Bartholomei London, que est Dominica Capella mea; et canonicis dominicis in ea Domino seruientibus, quod sint ab omni subiectione & terrena seruitute liberi; ut sic aliqua Ecclesia in tota Anglia magis libera, etc. dat. per manum nostram apud Winton, 15 junij, Anno reg. 37. Here he died, and was here buried in a fair monument, renewed by Prior Bolton, ●illiam Bolton the last Prior of S Bartholomewes'. which Bolton was the last Prior of this house; a great builder and repairer of the Priory, and the Parish Church, and of diverse lodgings belonging to the same: as also of new he builded the Manor of Canonbury (now called Canbury) at Islington, which belonged to the Canons of this house. This Bolton and the rest of his brethren were portrayed upon a Table sometimes hanging in this Church, now it is in Sir Robert Cottons Library, holding up their hands to the Crucifix, under whom, these verses were depensi●d. Gulielmo Bolton precibus succurrite vestris Qualis erat pater hic, Domus hec, & cetera monstrant. He died at his Parsonage house at Harrow upon the hill (as I have it by relation) the fourth of Edward the sixth, and was there interred. He surrendered up this his Priory the 30 of Henry the 8. which was then valued at 757 l. 8 s. 4 d. ob q. by year. Roger Walden Bishop of London. Here sometime lay entombed the body of Roger Walden, Bishop of London. Never had any man better experience of the variable uncertainty of worldly felicity, than he; for from the estate of a very poor man, he was suddenly raised to be Treasurer of England (having been first Secretary to the King, Godwin de praesulibus Angl. Deane of York, and Treasurer of the town of Calis) and then made Archbishop of Canterbury; which honour he enjoyed not passed two years, but was removed from the same, and forced to lead a private life a long time. At last being once more lift up to the honour of this Bishopric of London; he left this present life within the compass of the year following. Of this man thus writeth Thomas Walsingham, who lived in those times, and much what to the same effect. I will use his own language. Vpodigma Neustricae. Anno 1406. Dominus Rogerus de Waldene debitum Naturae soluit, qui varia fortuna vectus expertus est sub brevi tempore. Quam sit inconstans, incerta, volubilis ipsa, Errans, instabilis, vaga, quae dum stare putatur, Occidit, et falso mutatur gaudia vultu. Nempe ex pauperculo factus est Regni Thesaurarius; and so proceeds on forwards with his story. Upon his monument this Epitaph was inlaid in brass. Hic iacet Rogerus de Walden Episcopus Londinens. qui cum in utraque fortuna plurimum laboravit ex hac vita migravit, 2 die Nouem. an. dom. 1406, Virro, cultor verus Domini, iacet intra Rogerus Walden: Fortuna cus nunquam steterat una. Nunc requiem tumuli Deus omnipotens dedit illi, Gaudet et in celis plaudet ubi quisque fidelis. He denied his preferment to the Bishopric of London, 2. Pars. Pat. An. 6 H. 4. M. 20. being preferred unto him by the Pope, saying, that he would not accept of it from any but from the king. As I find thus recorded in the Tower. Cum summus Pontifex nuper providisset Rogero Walden de Ecclesia Cathedral. London, prefatus tamen Rogerus dominicum beneficium sine Regis assensu, et licentia acceptare noluit, nec vult ni presenti Rex concedit eidem Rogero licentiam quod ipse tanquam verus Pastor, et Episcopus dicte Ecclesie Cathedralis eandem ecclesiam capere valeat et acceptare T. R. apud W. 24. junij. Little Saint Bartholomewes'. This Hospital for the poor and diseased, The foundation of Saint Bartl. Hospital. was founded by the forenamed Rahere Prior of great Saint Bartholomewes', to be governed by a Master, and eight Brethren, being Priests for the Church: and four Sisters, to see the poor served. It was valued at the suppression to 305. l. 6. s. 7. d. yearly. The Church remaineth a Parish to the Tenants dwelling in the precinct of the Hospital; in which are many fair Funeral Monuments. Whose Inscriptions (or the most of them) are set down in the Survey of London, these following only omitted. Hic iacent Thomas Malefant Miles Baro de Winwore, Sir Tho Malilant or Neufant, & Margaret his wi●e. et Dominus de S. George, in Com. de Clamorgan, et Dominus de Okneton et Pile, in Com. de Penbroke in Wallia, qui obijt 8. die Maij 1438. et Domina Margareta uxor eius, filia Thome Asteley. Ar. Nep. de Domino de Asteley, et Henricus ●ilius ●orundem Tho. et Margarete. Quorum animabus propitietur Altissimus. Amen. The xiiiic year of our Lord seventy and three, Sir Will. Knight Priest. passed Sir William Knight to God Almighty; The fifteenth day of juil; Master of this place. jesus for his mercy rejoice him with his grace. The xiiiic year of our Lord and eight, Sir Rob. Grevil Priest. passed Sir Robart Grevil to God Almight, The xii day of April: Brother of this place, jesu for his mercy rejoice him with his grace. Philip Lewis resteth under yis stone, Philip Lewis & Agnes his wife. Yat in jun deseisyd the day six and twenty, With Agnes his wife, yat were both on, The xiiiic year of our Lord and seven and fifty. Subiacet ecce pede john Stafford mortis in ede Io. Stafford. justus, devotus, discretus, et ad pia motus: Qui bona plura loco dum vixit contulit isti: Mille quater centum quater et sexto quoque Christi, Luce Novemberis deca ter .......... Vt sit propitius anime Christus precor. Amen. Saint Sepulchers. In this Church lieth buried the body of that unfortunate Lord, Thomas Fi●es, Baron Dacres of the South. Who was executed at Tyburn the 29. of june, 1541. for that he with others going to hunt in Master Pelhams' Park at Laughton in Sussex, and meeting with some company, casually by the way, with whom and his confederates, ensued a quarrel: in which a private man, 〈◊〉. Annal. one john Busbrig was slain by the said Lord, or some of his associates, which were Io. mantel, Io. Frouds, and George (all three executed for the same fact at Saint Thomas Water) The death of this Lord was generally lamented, being an hopeful gentleman of 24. years of age. This happened in that bloody year, when Henry the eight unsheathed his sword upon the necks of the Nobility. ●●. Good-fellows 〈◊〉. Here lieth the heart of john Goodfellow, for his sowl and all yat died with him, and all Christian sowls, I pray you for cherite say a Pater Noster and an Ave Mary. Saint Bridgets or Brides. Will. ●euer and Elizabeth his wife. Vndyr this stone William Wever doth lie Cityzon, and Elisabeth his wife him by He died the viii and she the seven day of September, Leving Geffrey, Mary, and Ellen that children as I remember▪ Who's sowls' God receyve to favour and pease, With joys to live that nevyr sal cease. 1409. The White Friars. The foundation of the white Friars Carmelites. These Friars were called Fratres beatae Mariae de monte Carmeli: first founded by Sir Richard Grey knight, ancestor to the Lord Grey of Codnor, in the year 1241. King Edward the first gave to the Prior and brethren of that house, a plot of ground here in Fleetstreet, whereupon to build their house: which was afterwards new builded by Hugh Courtney (the third of that Christian name Earl of Devonshire) the year before he died, which was Aun. 1350. Sir Robert Knolles knight, was a great builder here also, in the reign of Richard the second, Stow S●●●uay. and of Henry the fourth: who (being borne but of mean parentage in the County of Chester) was by his valiant behaviour advanced from a common Soldier (in the French wars under Edward the third) to a great Commander; and being sent General of an Army into France, in despite of their power, he drove their people before him like Sheep, Lamb peramb. destroying Towns, Castles, and Cities, in such a manner and number, that long after in memory of this act, the sharp points and gable ends of overthrown houses and Ministers, were called Knolles Mitres. After which minding to make himself as well-beloved of his country, as he was feared of foreign nations, he built the goodly fair Bridge at Rochester, Lamb. peramb. over the River of Medway, with a Chapel and a chantry at the East end thereof. He founded a College, with an Hospital adjoining thereunto; in the Town of Pontefract in Yorkshire, of which hereafter. He founded also an Hospital in the City of Rome, for entertainment of English travellers, or pilgrims, to that City, in place where Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury, had builded a Chapel of the holy Trinity, which to this day retains the name, and is a Seminary for our English Fugitives. He deceased at his Manor of Scone Thorpe in Norfolk, was brought to London, and honourably buried by the Lady Constance his wife, in the body of this Church; which he had newly builded. Ann. 1407. the 15. of August. Of whom in his life, saith Stow, were made verses in Latin, thus by him put into English. O Robert Knowles, most worthy of Fame, By thy Prowess France was made tame. Thy manhood made the French to yield, By dint of sword in town and field. Here sometime lay entombed in a goodly Monument of Alabaster, the body of Robert Mascall, Rob Mascall Bishop of Hereford. Bishop of Hereford, a man for his good learning and good life admired, and beloved of all men: He was often employed by Henry the fourth (to whom he was Confessor) upon Embasies to foreign Princes; and in the year 1415. sent with two other Bishops to the Council of Constance. He built the Quire, Presbytery, and Steeple of this Church; and gave many rich ornaments to this religious house, wherein he died, 22. Decemb. 1416. William Lord Montacute Earl of Salisbury, Will. Montag●● Earl of Salisbury. Ypod●g 〈◊〉 and king of the Isle of Man, was here entombed. Whose noble Acts (saith Walsingham) to write worthily were a commendable matter. He founded the Abbey of Bisham Montague in Berkshire, and died at a justs and Tourney at Windsor, in the year 1343. For the rest here interred, I refer my Reader to the Survey of London. This house was valued at 26. l. 7. s. 3. d. and was surrendered the tenth of November, the 30. of king Hen. the eight. Since the writing of the premises, Penes 〈◊〉 T●●swell. I chanced to have the perusal of a Manuscript, penned in the praise of this religious Order; out of which I collected diverse Epitaphs, which in times past had been engraven upon the Sepulchers of certain Carmelites, here in the Church of this Priory interred. And first, Stephen Patrington Bishop of S. David's. I find that Stephen Patrington, vir omnibus praestantioribus animi dotibus, omnibus virtutibus preditus, et multiplici doctrinae varietate instructus, was here buried in the body of the Quire. He was borne in the County of York, and brought up in the University of Oxford, where he proceeded Doctor of Divinity. He writ many learned books, and was an admirable Preacher, to whose Sermons always came an incredible concourse of people, saith Leland. He was for the space of fifteen years Provincial of the Carmelites: Confessor he was to king Henry the fourth, and held of him in great estimation, as also to his Queen, and his eldest son Henry Prince of Wales; who when he came to the Crown, preferred him to the Bishopric of Saint David's in Wales. Being at the Council of Constance, he was, by the Pope, translated to Chichester; not long after which he departed this world: and as it is in the Records in the Tower before his translation could be perfected: in the year 1417. the 22. of September. But I will come to the Inscription upon his Tomb, in verse and prose as followeth. Hic Frater Stephanus de Patrington requiescit, Nomine reque fuit norma, corona, Pater. Ens Carmelitis Rector Doctor Prior Anglis; Confessor celebris Regis et ipse manens, Henrici Quinti, Menevensis quoque Presul C●ristus in aureolam pillea mutet ei. ................. Magister Frater Stephanus Patrington, sacre Theologie venerabilis Doctor et Prior Provincialis Fratrum Carmelitarum in Provincia Anglie annis xv. Confessor Domini Regis Henrici quinti. Episcopus Menevens. et Postulatus Cicestriens. obijt Londonijs in Conuentu. Ann. Dom. M. cccc.xvij.xxij. die men's. Septembris. Hic varia scripsit opuscula utilitati Studentium. Nich. Kenton. Here sometime lay buried the body of Nicholas Kenton; borne in Kenton a village in Suffolk, about ten miles from Ipsewich; he was matriculated and instructed in the rudiments of learning amongst the Carmelites at Ipswich. From whence he went to Cambridge, where he attained to the full perfection of all solid discipline. In poesy and Rhetoric he was exquisitely well exercised, an acute Philosopher he was, and a singular divine. He writ many learned Comments upon sundry places of the Scripture; and many other works mentioned by Bale; He was Provincial of his order in England for the space of twelve years; and had under his government above a thousand and five hundred Carmelites. He desired, not long before his death, to give over his Provinciallship, saying, Se iam malle precibus et Deo liberè vacare, quam praxi attendere, parere potius deinceps velle quam preesse. Which was granted after much earnest suit made to all his Covents. He died in the dormitory of this house, the fourth day of September, in the year of our Lord, 1468. to whose honour this rhyming Epitaph was annexed to his funeral Monument. Kenton Doctoris Carmilite Nicholai, Sic Peccatricis anime miserens Adonai. Carmeli gentis curam qui rexit in Anglis Ipsa bis senis fungens summus Prior annis. Huic sibi propitius veniam prestet pater almus; Cuius spiramen scandens supra astra sit. Amen. Io. Miluerton. john Miluerton, a Carmelite friar of Bristol, was here entombed; he was Doctor of Divinity, and of the Chair, in the University of Oxford; from whence he was sent for to Paris, by john Sorethe the Provincial of his Order, where by a general Synod he was chosen Provincial of his order, through England, Scotland, and Ireland. At length (because he defended such of his order as preached against endowments of the Church with temporal possessions) he was brought into trouble, committed to prison in Castle S. Angelo in Rome, where he continued three years, and at length was delivered through certain of the Cardinals, that were appointed his judges; but in the mean time he lost the Bishopric of Saint David's, to which he was elected. He writ diverse learned works before, after, and during the time of his imprisonment, which are mentioned by Bale in his fifth century. At the last, full of years and cares, he here ended his life, the last day save one of january in the year of our redemption, 1486. and was buried in the Choir of this monastery, with these nicking Hexameters engraven upon his monument. Clauditur hic subtus prudens veri reserator, Carmeli cultor, Doctrine firmus amator. Rite johannes Oxoniensis in ordine Doctor Sic orthodoxe sidei validus relevator. Post Provinquecialis vixit pluribus annis, Mirifice crebro vexatus tempore dampnis Huic reus est sceleris annus magni tribulantis, Gaudeat ob meritum constans robur patientis, Ipsum turbavit vir fortis perniciose, Tandem Catholice trusus superat speciose. Aureolam Deus ut det Myluerton numerose, Optemus, fuerat plexus licet invidiose. john Loneye Doctor of Divinity, john Loney. and a Carmelite friar, was here interred in the cloister of the Church, to whose memory this distich was made. Clauditur hoc claustro Frater Loneye johannes Expertus mundo celo fruiturus ut heres. This Loney, Pits. de illust. Aug. Scriptoribus. saith a late writer, was vir acu●i ingenij, magnae doctrinae, multae lectionis, boni zeli, multae industriae: A man of an acute wit, excellent doctrine, much reading, ardent devotion, great industry. He with twelve other Doctors did condescend to the decree (saith my Mss) of Master William Barton, Chancellor of the university of Oxford, for the condemning of the sixteen Articles of john Wickliff of the Sacrament of the Altar. An Epitaph upon john Palgrave, Prior sometimes of this house. Huius confratris gravis est instantia, causa Qua domus hec superest proceraque fabrica libris, Et murus validus excludit Tamesis undas. Vestes dat sacras sibi det vestes Deus albas. Of this Prior I find no further; neither of any other of the Carmelites buried within this conventual Church. Black Friar's Church in Oldborne: In old time about the year 1221. there was a religious house of Friar's Predicants, without the Bars in Oldborne; to which order, Hubert de Burgo Earl of Kent, was an especial Benefactor: giving unto them that noble Palace at Westminster, now called White Hall: Thus Hubert was a faithful servant to King john, and to his son Henry the third, a careful Patriot of the State, and one who unfeignedly loved his Country, who when he had made trial of the variable changes of Fortune, Hubert de Burgo Earl of Kent. as being seldom, or never, but either highly in the King's love, or in the Subject's hatred, or in the King's heavy displeasure, and the people's general applause; lastly, being full fraught with years, as he was with many eminent virtues, he died, in the favour of God, the King, and all good men, at his Manor of Bansted in Surrey, the Ides of May, Anno 1243. He was first here entombed, but afterwards (as though he had been fatally ordained to take no more rest in his grave, than quietness in his worldly employments) his body was translated, at the same time when these Friars were removed from Oldborne into London, to that house now called the black Friars, near unto Ludgate: where belike it takes no better rest, than others have done so buried. Saint Dunstan's in the West. john Gyles, Clerk of the petit Bag. Hic iacet johannes Gyles nuper unius Clericorum parue Bage cancel. Dominorum H. Regum septimi et octavi, ac custos sive clericus Rotulorum et Recordorum in Turri London remanentium qui obijt ultimo die Feb. Anno 1523. cuius. Clericus paruae Bagiae or Clarke of the Petit Bag, is an Officer in the Chancery, cowel lit. c. of which sort there be three, and the Master of the Rolls is their chief. Their Office is to record the return of all Inquisitions, out of every Shire, all Liveries granted in the Court of Wards, all ouster les manes, to make all Patents of Customers, Gawgers, Controllers and Aulnegers; all Congee d'eslires for Bishops, all Liberateis upon extent of Statute Staples; the recovery of Recognizances forfeited, and all Elegits upon them; the summons of the Nobility, Clergy, and Burgesses of the Parliament, Commissions directed to Knights, and other of every shire, for seassing of the Subsidies, Writs for the nomination of Collectors, and all traverses upon any Office, bill, or otherwise, and to receive money duel to the King for the same. This Officer is mentioned, Anno 33. Hen. 8. cap. 22. and it is like he had first this denomination and stile of Petty Bags, because having to do with so many Records of diverse kinds, as above mentioned, they were put in sundry leather Bags, which were not so great as the Clerk of the Hamper now useth, and therefore might be called Petits Bags, small or little bags. This john Gyles was also keeper or Clerk of the Rolls and Records in the Tower of London; an Office generally well known throughout all England; the master whereof at this day is that learned Gentleman, Sir john Borrows Knight; under whom my understanding friend Will. Collet, and my industrious countryman, Will. Riley, alias Rougerose, Pursuivant at Arms, do officiate the place. Laurence Bartelet. Dona requiem miserecordissime jesu anime famuli tui Laurentij Bartl●t, nuper Registrarij Episcopi Lincol. qui obijt ... die octob. An. 1470. Quisquis ades vultumque vides, sta, perlege, plora juditij memor esto tui, tua nam venit hora Sum quod eris, fueramque quod es, tua posteriora Commemorans miseris miserans pro me precor ora. Te mediante tuus vivam post funera seruus Under the picture of Saint Michael. Qui te dilexi Michael bene dummodo vixi. Non Homo leteris tibi copia si fluat eris, Hic non semper eris, memor esto quod morieris. Corpus putrebit, quod habes alter habebit Es evanebit, quod agis tecum remanebit. The Temple Church. The first Founder hereof is not certainly recorded, The first Sanctuary. some hold that it was built by Dunwallo Mulmutius, about the year of the world's creation, 4748 the precincts whereof, he made a Sanctuary, or a place of refuge for any person therein to be assured of life, liberty, and limbs, of which I have spoken elsewhere. Besides these privileges unto Temples, he constituted diverse good laws. Of which he writ two books, the one called Statuta municipalia, the other Leges iudiciariae, which is as much to say, as the statute Law, and the common Law. Cook Reports 3 part ad Lect. out of Bale cent. 1. Having reduced his Realm into one Monarchy, being before by civil wars and dissension, The death and burial of Mu●mu●●us Donwallo. severed and brought into diverse dominions. He reigned 40. years, died the year of the world's creation, 4768. and was buried in this place, with other of the British Kings. But it appeareth by this inscription following over the Church door in the stone work, that this holy Structure was newly founded of far later times, and dedicated to the honour of the blessed Virgin: yet I think it is far more ancient. Anno ab incarnatione Domini M.C.lxxxv. dedicata hec Ecclesia in honorem beat Marie, The Foundation of the Temple Church. a Domino Eraclio dei gratia Sancte Resurrectionis Ecclesie Patriarcha, 11 Idus Februarij. Qui eam annatim petentibus de iniuncta sibi Penitentia lx. dies indulsit. Knight's Templars were the last Founders of this house, which at the first were certain noble Soldiers religiously bend, who bound themselves by vow in the hands of the Patriarch of jerusalem to serve Christ after the manner of Regular canons, in chastity and obedience, and to defend Christian Religion, the holy land, and Pilgrims going to visit the Lords Sepulchre, they flourished for a time in high reputation, for piety and devotion, but as they increased in wealth, so they fell to wickedness; insomuch that in the year 1308. all the Templars in England, as also in other parts of Christendom, were apprehended and committed to diverse Prisons, and in the year 1312. all their lands were given to the Knight's Hospitalers of the order of Saint john Baptist, called Saint john of jerusalem, as I have said elsewhere. There are in this Temple many very ancient monuments of famous men, (for out of what respect I know not King Henry the third, and many of the Nobility, desired much to be buried in this Church) shaped in marble, armed, their legs cross, whose names are not to be gathered, by any inscriptions, for that time hath worn them out; upon the upper part of one of their portraitures, Camden saith that he hath read. Comes Penbrochie, and upon the side this verse. Miles eram Martis Mars multos vicerat armis. Cant. in Midlesex London. Of Mars I was a doughty knight, Mars vanquished many a man in fight. William marshal Earl of Penbroke. Under which monument lieth William Martial the elder, Earl of Penbroke, a most powerful man in his time, being the King's Marshal, General of his Army, and Protector of the kingdom in the minority of King Henry the third, until such time as he the said William died, which was in the year 1219. 27 die Martij. This Epitaph following goes also currant for this glorious and triumphant Earl, as an Epitome of his noble virtues. Sum quem Saturnum sibi sensit Hibernia, solemn Anglia, Mercurium Normannia, Gallia Martem. Ireland's Saturn, England's Sun am I, The Mars of France, and Normans Mercury: or thus. Whom Ireland once a Saturn found, England a Sun to be, Whom Normandy a Mercury, and France Mars, I am he. This William had five sons, William, Richard, Gilbert, Walter, and Anselm, all Earls of Penbroke, and Marshals of England. William Martial. the younger, Earl of Penbroke. Here by his father under the like monument, lieth William the eldest son, Earl of Penbroke, Lord of Strighull, Chepstow, Caerwent, Leigh (or Liege) Weshford, Kildare, Ossorie and Carlogh, who died the sixth of April, 1231. as it is in the book of Waverly, wherein this Epitaph is made to his memory. Militis istius mortem dolet Anglia, ridet Wallia, viventis bella minasque timens. England laments the death of this brave Knight, Wales laughs, he living did her so affright. The Annals of Ireland will have him to be buried by his brother Richard, in the Choir of the Friar's Predicants in Kilkennie, of whom it was thus written. Cuius sub fossa Kilkennia continet Ossa, Whose bones bestowed in grave so deep, Kilkenny Town doth safely keep. Wheresoever he was buried, a Martial brave Earl he was, which he worthily showed, when as he set upon Lehwellin Prince of Wales, who invaded his Territories, in his absence whilst he was prosecuting the wars in Ireland, and returned from that battle a triumphant Conqu●rour. Under another Monument lieth the body of Gilbert Martial, G●lbe●● Ma●●shall Earl of Penbroke. Earl of Penbroke, and Marshal of England: Lord of Longevile in Normandy, Leinster in Ireland, and of Chepstow, Strighull, and Caerwent in Wales. This Potent Peer of the Realm (saith Matthew Paris, in Ann. 1241.) proclaimed a Tournament (in scorn of the king's authority; whereby such disports were forbidden) to be holden at Hertford in the County of Hertford; to which place, when many both of the Nobility and Gentry were assembled; it happened that himself running, by the flinging of his horse was cast out of his saddle; and the horse gave him such a blow on the breast, that he died the same day, being the fifth of the Kalends of july, 1241. as aforesaid. Paris 1●4●. His bowels were interred in the Abbey Church in the Town of Hertford, with the bowels of one Sir Robert de Say knight, a gallant gentleman, slain in the same exercise. These kind of justs or Tournaments were brought in with king Stephen, and practised in many places of England, in such an outrageous manner, and with such slaughter of Gentlemen, Hastiludium. Paris. that to suppress such an heathenish disport, it was decreed by Parliament, that whosoever therein were slain, should want Christian burial; and their heirs be disinherited. Hic requiescit ..... R ... Ep .... Quondam Visitator generalis ordinis Milicie Templi, Sir Rob. Rosse knight. in Anglia & in Francia & in Italia. .... This was a fragment of a funerals Inscription ensculpted upon one of these crosslegged Monuments; as I found it amongst other Collections by one studious in Antiquities, in Sir Robert Cottons voluminous Library: which he proves by the pedigree of the said Lord Rosses, to have been made to the memory of one Robert Rosse a Templar, who died about the year 1245. and gave to the Templars his Manor of Ribston. William Plantagenet, Will. Plantagenet. the fifth son of king Henry the third, lieth here interred; who died in his childhood, about the year 1256. En jacobus templo Bayle requiescit in isto, james bail. Qui fuerat gratus medio Templo sociatus, Cui Deus esto pius eius miserando reatus. Vitam mutavit in mensis fine secundi, M. C. quater que dato Lxx quater annumerato Cui sit solamen Christus dic protinus. Amen. Robertus iacet hic Thorne quem Bristollia quondam Rob. Thorn. Pretoris merito legit ad officium. Huic etinim semper magne Respublica cure; Charior & cunctis Patria duitijs: Ferre inopi auxilium, tristes componere lights, Dulce huic consilio quosque iware fuit. Qui pius exaudis miserorum vota precesque, Christ, huic in celis des regione locum. Ric. Wye. Orate pro anima Richardi Wye socij comititivi interioris Templi. ob. 9 Mar. 1519. Cuius anime. Domine secundum delictum meum noli me iudicare, Deprecor maiestatem tuam ut tu deleas iniquitatem meam. Ecce quid eris. Will. Langham Master of the Temple. Hic iacet Willelmus Langham quondam custos huius Templi qui obijt ......... 1437. Tu prope qui transis, nec dicis aveto, resist Auribus et corde hec mea dicta tene. Sum quod eris, quod es ipse fui, derisor amare Mortis, dum licuit pace manente frui. Sed veniente nece postquam sum raptus amicis Atque meis famulis orba ...... domus. Me contexit humo, deploravit que iacentem; Inque meos cineres ultima dona dedit. Vnde mei vultus corrosit terra nitorem Queque fuit form ......... Ergo, Deum pro me cum pura ment precare, Vt mihi perpetua pace frui tribuat. Et quicunque rogat pro me comportet in unum Vt mecum meneat in regione Poli. Will. Burgh. William Burgh iadis Clerk de Chancelleri Gist icy Dieu de s'alme eyt mercy. Amen. Saint Clement Danes. Harold king of England. So called because Harold (surnamed Harefoot, for his swift footmanship) king of England, of the Danish line, and other Danes, were here buried. This Harold was the base son of king Canut, by his concubine Alice of Woluerhampton in Staffordshire, a Shoemaker's daughter. His body was first buried at Westminster, Stow Annal. but afterwards Hardicanut, the lawful son of Canut being king, commanded his body to be digged out of the earth, and to be thrown into the Thames, where it was by a Fisherman taken up and buried in this Churchyard. He died at Oxford, 1040. having reigned three years and eight months. Io. Arundel Bishop of Exeter. Hic iacet .... johannes Arundel .... Episcopus Exon. qui ob. die mens. Maij 15 ... 1503. This maimed Inscription would tell us thus much, that john Arundel (descended of the ancient and most worshipful house of the Arundels of Lanherne in Cornwall) Bishop of Exeter, lieth here under interred, who died March 15. 1503. Io. Booth Bishop of Exeter. Hic iacet corpus venerabilis .... Io ..... Booth Legum Bacalaureus. Episcopus Exon ..... ob. primo April. 1478. This Bishop governed his Church wondrous well, and builded (as some suppose) the Bishops See in the Choir, but being weary of the great troubles which were in his country, between king Edward the fourth, and the Earl of Warwick, he removed from thence to his house of Horsleigh in Hampshire, where he died. Orate pro anima Willelmi Booth militis fratris Episcopi Exon. qui ob. 6. April, Sir Will. Booth knight. 1478. Hic iacet Edmundus Arnold, Ed. Arnold Parson. postremus Aprilis Quem, dolour heu, rapuit tristis atroxque dies. Istius Ecclesie Rector meritissimus olim, Et summus M●dice Doctor in art fuit. Non Ipocrate minor erat, nec doctior ullus, Non Opifex mirum vincit Apollo virum. M. D. dame ter. semel v. Christi anno, Cui vitam Medicus det sine sine Deus. Savoy. So called of Peter Earl of Savoy, The foundation of the Hospital of Savoy the first builder thereof, which being overthrown by the Rebels of Kent, it was again raised and beautifully rebuilded by king Henry the seventh for an Hospital; and dedicated to the honour of Saint john Baptist: for which he purchased lands for the relief of an hundred poor people. Of which you may read this Inscription engraven over the Gate, towards the Street. 1505. Hospitium hoc inopi Turbe Savoia vocatum, Septimus Henricus fundavit ab imo solo. Henry the seventh to his merit and honour, This Hospital founded, poor people to socor. Many officers, ordinances, orders, and rules were appointed by the Founder; Ex Mss. in bib. Cot. for the better government of this Hospital, some of which I have read, briefly extracted out of the Grand Charter, viz. Per nomen Magistri et Capellanorum Hospitalis Henrici Regis Anglie septimi de Savoy. Duo Presbiteri seculares conductitij. Duo homines seculares honesti ac literati, quorum alter Subsacrista alter Subhospitalarius. Quatuor homines honesti qui Alteriste vocentur. Quinque alij honesti homines viz. 1. Clericus Coquine. 2. Panetarius. 3. Coquus. 4. Ortulanus. 5. janitor. Duo alij, alter subcoquus, alter subianitor. una femina Matrona, & sub eadem duodecim alley femine. Habeat etiam Magister ad sumptus Hospitalis duos homines honestos ad nutum & libitum suum in omnibus negotijs tam propriis, quam etiam in negotiis hospitalis sibi seruituros. In iuramento Magistri. Nullam que dispensationem adversus aliquod statutum sive ordinationem Hospitalis predicti, sive adversus hoc iuramentum meum, aut aliquam eius particulam impetrabo aut impetrari curabo, neque ab aliis impetratum ullo modo curabo, etc. Hec omnia et singula in me recipio, & hec iureiurando promitto me fideliter obseruaturum, sicut me Deus adiwet et hec sacrosancta eius Euangelia. Que omnia & singula N. Abbati Westmonast. Visitatori predicti Hospitalis spondeo, etc. & incentum libris sterlingorum ad usum Hospitalis predicti meipsum firmiter obligo, etc. Regule quedam obseruande. Sat Magister continue residens in Hospitali predicto, nullumque officium, administrationem quarumcunque rerum, aut cuiuscunque rei, vel sub aliqua persona spirituali aut temporali cuiuscunque dignitatis aut conditionis fuerit, acceptabit aut geret, neque eiusdem Servitor, Capellanus, Officiariusve. Nec absit in Hospitalis negotiis ultra quadraginta in aliquo anno. Pro singulis diebus necessary sue absentie in Hospitalis causis habeat pro se & duobus sibi Servitoribus tantum tres solidos. Magister Hospitalis pro tempore existens, habeat sibi ultra unam Togam sive liberatam suam. Pro expensis oris sui sive victus, proque vadijs suis, & quibuscunque aliis necessarijs habeat triginta libras annuatim soluendas per manus suas proprias, ad quatuor anni terminos usuales per equales portiones. Nec Magister nec alij portabunt vestes exteriores alterius coloris quam blanei anglice blue, interiores possunt esse alterius coloris, dummodo non sunt rubei, vel alterius levis coloris. Omnes, Conductijs exceptis, portabunt in dextra parte Pectoris unam Rosam rubeam amplam ad sex polices in circuitu de filis cericis & aureis bene contextam, et compactam, cum Capicio eiusdem coloris. There are diverse other the like ordinances, which I omit. This Hospital being valued to dispend 529. l. 15. s. 7. d. ob. by year, was suppressed the tenth of june, the seventh of Edward the sixth, a little before his death: the Beds, bedding, and other furniture belonging thereunto, with seven hundred Marks of the said Lands by year, he gave to the Citizens of London, with his house of Bridewell, to the furnishing thereof, and towards the furnishing of the Hospital of S. Thomas in Southwark, lately suppressed. The second foundation of Savoy Hospital. This Hospital was again new founded, erected, corporated and endowed with lands, by Queen Mary, the third of November, in the fourth of her reign; the Ladies of the Court, and Maidens of Honour (a thing, saith Stow, not to be forgotten) stored the same of new with beds, bedding, and other furniture, in very ample manner, and so it continues. The Chapel of this Hospital serveth now as a Parish Church to the Tenements thereof near adjoining, and others. In which are diverse funeral Monuments, but few of any Antiquity. Tho. Halsal. Gowin Douglase Bishops. Hic iacet Tho. Halsal Leighuieng Episcopus, in Basilica Sancti Petri Rome, Nationis Anglicorum Penitenciarius, sum probitatis vir, qui hoc solum post se reliquit. Vixit dum vixit bene, cui lews conditor Goannes Douglas Scotus Dunkelheng. Presul, Patria sua exul. 1522. This Bishop translated Virgil's Aeneiads into the Scottish language: Hist. of Scot Ann. 1521. compiled the palace of Honour, and diverse other Treatises; he fled into England for fear of being questioned in Parliament. Humphrey Gosling. Here lieth Humphrey Gosling of London, Vintnor, Of the whit Hart of this Parish a neghbor, Of virtuous behaviour, a very good Archer, And of honest mirth, a good company keeper. So well inclined to poor and rich, God send more Goslings to be si●h. Saint Martins in the fields. O ye our friends yat here pass by, We beseech you us to have in memory. Somtym we were as now be ye, In tim to come ye shall be as we. Edward Norrys and joan his wyff, These were our names while we had life. Of your charity for us to pray, A Pater Noster and an Aue to say. Of your charity pray for the soul of Sir Humphrey Forster Knight, Sir 〈…〉. whose body lieth buried here in earth undyr this marbl●ston: which decessy● the xviij day of the month of September, 1500 ......... on wh●s soul jesus have mercy, Amen. Hic iacet Thomas Barret prenobilis Armiger, Tho. 〈…〉 qui quidem Thomas erat abstractus de Sanctuario beati Petri Westmonasterij, et erudeliter intersectus per manus improrum contra leges Anglie, et totius universalis Ecclesie privilegia et iura, Anno Domini 1461. Anno illustrissimi Regis Ed. Quarti post conqu●stum primo. Sub eodem queque ma●moreo lapide johannes Barret eiusdem Thome primogenitus sepelitur qui quidem Iohannes obiit ...... die ...... An. .... Of this eminent thrice noble Esquire, thus drawn and pulled out of the Sanctuary, and cruelly murdered by the hands of wicked people, against the Laws of the land, and privileges of the holy Church, as appears by this Inscription I have read: thus much following out of a nameless Manuscript. Thomas Barryt Squyr to King Harry the sixth. oftentyms employed in the French wars, undre the command of john Duc of Bedford; as alsoo john Duc of Norfok, being asw●y true ●●ge man to his Sovereygne Lord the King, having taken Sanctury at Westmynstre to ●hon the fury of his and the Kings' enemies, was from thence hailed forth, and lamentably hewy● a prees. About whilk rym, or a lityll before, the Lord Skales late in an evening entering a wherry Bott with three persoons and wghing toward UUestmynstre, there lykwys too have take Sanctury, was descried by a woman, where anon the wherry men fell on him, murdered him, and cast his mangyld corpse aloud by Seynt Mary Ouerys. The Surname of Barret is at this day of exemplary note, and doth greatly resflourish by that worthy Gentleman, Sir Edward Barret Knight, Lord Baron of Newburgh, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, and one of his Majesty's most honourable privy Council. Saint Mary Rouncivall. The Hospital of Saint Mary Rouncivall. This was an Hospital by Charing Cross, and a cell to the Priory, and covent of Rouncivall in Navarre, in Pampalone Diocese, where a Fraternity was founded in the 15 of Edward the fourth. Hospital of Saint James. Hospital of Saint James. This Hospital was anciently founded by the Citizens of London, for fourteen Sisters maidens, that were leprous, living chastely and honestly. This Hospital was surrendered to Henry the eight, the 23 of his reign: the Sisters being compounded withal, were allowed Pensions for the term of their lives; and the King builded there a goodly manor house annexing thereunto a Park. The Foundation of the religious house of Converts in Chancery lane, (anciently called Newstreete,) now known by the name of the Rolls. Henry the third, about the twentieth year of his reign, built this house for the jews, converted & to be converted to the faith of Christ: these are the words in his grant. In Archivis Turr●s London. Rex Archiepiscopis, etc. Sciatis nos intuitu Dei, et pro salute anime nostre, et animarum antecessorum, et heredum meorum concessisse, et hac charia nostra consirmasse, pro nobis, et heredibus nostris, domum quam fundari fecimus in vico, qui vocatur Newstreete, inter vetus Templum et nowm London, ad sustentationem Fratrum conversorum, et convertendorum, de judaismo, ad fidem catholicam, etc. hijs Testibus venerabilibus patribus. W. Kaerl: et W. exon episcopis. H. de Burgo Comite Kanti●, Radulpho filio Nicholai, Godfrido de Crancumbe. johanne filio Philip, Amaurico de sancto Aumundo Willielmo de Picheford, Galfrido de Cauz et aliis. dat per manum ve. P. R cicestrens. Cancellar. nostri, apud Westminst. 19 die April. But this Foundation did not continue long, for Edward the first (his son) in the eighteenth year of his reign, banished all the jews out of England, confiscating all their goods, and leaving them nothing but money (barely) to bear their charges. King Edward the third appointed this house for the custody of the Rolls and Records of the Chancery; pedesis' Ca●al. Cancel. per Fran●iscum ●hin collect. giving the same, by his charter, to one William Burstall, as then master of that Office, and his Successors. In the Chapel of this house, john Young, Doctor of both Laws, and master of the Rolls, lieth entombed with this Inscription. john Young, Master of the Rolls. Io. Yong. LL. Doctori sacror. scrinior. ac hius Domus custodi, Decano olin▪ Ebor: vita defuncto xxv Aprilis sui fideles Executores hoc posuerunt. M.d.xuj Besides which, upon an old table hanging by, are written in text hand, these verses following. Dominus firmamentum meum. Hic iacet ille johannes Young cognomine dignus, Tali quod nunquam marcesceret utpote charus. Omnibus apprime summo testante dolore, Quem neque celabant neque dissimulare valebant, Dum sternit iwenem mors immatura labentem, Quis non defleret iwenis miserabile fatum, Ex quo multorum pendebat vita salusque: Horum inquam inprimis, quos ille benignus alebat, Impensis donec vitales carperet auras, Nec satis illi erat hoc privatis consuluisse Rebus, quinetiam prudenter publica gessit. Munia sive forensia sive etiam extera summa Cum laude, illa quidem dum sacris presuit olim Scrinijs haec vero Legati functus honore. Saint Stephen's Chapel. This was a religious Structure, first begun by King Stephen, The foundation of S. Stephen's Chapel. and afterwards finished, and her revenues greatly augmented by King Edward the third; in which he placed a Dean, twelve Canons secular, as many Vicars, and other Ministers, who had their lodgings in Canon Row, now the habitations of diverse Noblemen and Gentlemen. These are the words of King Edwards Grant. In dei nomine Amen. Charta Regis Ed. tetijs. ex Record turr●s London. Edwardus dei gratia, etc. Salutem. Capellam quandam speciosam in Palatio nostro apud Westmonasterium situatam, in honorem beati Stephani Prothomartyris, per progenitores nostros nobiliter inchoatam, nostris sumptibus regijs fecimus consummari; in qua ad honorem omnipotentis dei, et specialiter beatissime Genetricis eius Marie, et dicti Martyris, ordinamus, volumus, constituimus, et aucthoritate nostra regia perpeiou stabilimus, Quod sint exeuntes Decanus unus, et duodecim canonici seculares, cum tuum, Hospitium nostrum magnum in strata de Lumbard-street civitatis nostre London situatum, una cum Patronatibus et advocationibus Ecclesiarum Perochialium de Dewesburie et Wakefeeld. Ebor. Dioces. assignamus donemus, etc. Teste meipso, apud Westmonaster. sexto die Augusti An. Regni nostri vicesimo secundo. Regni vero nostri Francie nono. The revenues wherewith King Edward endowed this covent, amounted to the value of five hundred pounds by year; and at the suppression, the whole foundation was rated to be yearly worth, (as I have it in the catalogue of Religious houses,) one thousand, fourscore, and five pound ten shillings, five pence. This Chapel serveth now for the lower house of Parliament. Westminster Abbey. The foundatis 〈…〉 West●inster Abbey. CAmden out of Sulcardus reporteth, that here sometime stood an Idol Temple, dedicated to Apollo; overthrown by an earthquake, about the year of grace, 153. Of the ruins of which, Sebert, King of the East Saxons, erected another Temple for the service of the living God, and consecrated the same to Saint Peter, about the year 610. near about the time of the building of Paul's, Mellitus as then being Bishop of London, and Austin of Canterbury, which agrees with these words in the charter of Edward the Confessor. In Arch. turris London. Basilica sancti Petri Westmon. edificata fuit antiquitus sub Mellito Londonie primo Episcopo socio et contemporaneo Sancti Augustini primi Cantuar. Archiepiscopi; et per ipsum beatum Petrum Angelico famulante seruicio, sancte crucis impressione et sacre Trinitatis perunctione dedicata: to which effect will it please you peruse these verses following. King Ethelbert, Saint Paul's edified: john Harding ca 88 And King Sebert Westminster founded: Mellito them both hallowed and blessified, Austin then, made Clerk full well grounded. Afterwards this Church being destroyed by the Danes; Dunstan Bishop of London, re-edified it about the year of Christ, 960. and made here a monastery for twelve Monks. After him Edward the confessor with the tenth penny of all his revenues, built it new for to be his own Sepulture: and a Monastery for Benedictin Monks, endowing it with livings and ●ands, lying dispersed in diverse parts of England. But, after an hundred and threescore years, King Henry the third subverted this Fabric of King Edward's, and built from the very Foundation, a new Church of very fair workmanship, supported with sundry rows of Pillars. Rob. Glocest. The new reke at UUestmynster the King though gawne anon, Aftur his coroning and layed the ferst stone. which the Abbots enlarged very much toward the west end: and King Henry the seaventh for the burial only of himself, his children, and their posterity, adjoined thereunto a Chapel, which in regard of the beauty, and curious contrived work thereof, is called of Leland, Orbis miraculum, the wonder of the world. The first stone of this admirable Structure, consecrated to the honour of the blessed Virgin, was laid by the hands of john Islip Abbot of this monastery, Sir Reginald Bray, Knight of the Garter, and others, in the 18 year of his reign, the 24 day of january, upon which stone this Inscription was engraven. Illustrissimus Henricus Septimus Rex Anglie et Francie, et Dominus Hibernie, posuit hanc Petram in honore beat virgins Marie xxiv. die Ian●aarij, anno Domini M. ccccc 11: et anno dicti Regis Henrici septimi decimo octavo. Harpsfeeld, Hist. Ecclesiast. Angl. vnde●. ●aecul. ca 16. sometime Archdeacon of Canterbury, writing of the Antiquity and famous renown of this Monastery, hath these words. Vt Albanense, propter protomartyris nostri Albani nobile eo loci martyrium, sacrasque etiam ibi reconditas reliquias, coenobium reliquorum semper princeps habitum est, ita posterioribus seculis Westmonasteriense, post illud maxime eminebat. It is likewise of especial note and reverend regard, by reason of the consecration, the inauguration, and unction of our kings of England; of which two rhyming Hexameters are wrought in the cloth of Arras, which adorn the Quire. Hanc Regum sedem sibi Petrus consecrat Edem; Quam tu Papa regis, insignit & unctio Regis. This Church is also greatly honoured by the glorious Monuments of kings, Queens, grand Peers, and others of eminent place and quality here interred. And first of all, Sebert the first founder; Sebert king of the East saxons with his Queen Aethelgoda. the son of Sledda, and Queen Ricula, the sister of Ethelbert, king of Kent, with his wife Ethelgoda lie here entombed; who died the last day of july, Ann. Dom. 616. having reigned 13. years. Some 692. years after their bodies were translated from their first place of burial to the South side of the Communion Table, where they rest within a Tomb of lead, with this Epitaph. Labilitas, brevitas mundane prosperitatis Celica premia, gloria, gaudia danda beatis Sebertum certum iure dedere satis. Hic Rex Christicola ver●x fuit hac regione, Qui nunc celicola gaudet mercede corone. Rex humilis, docilis, scius, & pius, inclytus iste Solicit, nitide, tacit, placide, bone christ Vult servire tibi perficiendo sibi. Ornat mores, spernit flores lucis avare, Gliscens multum, christi cultum letificare. Ecclesiam nimiam nimio studio fabricavit. Hec illesa manus que fundamenta locavit; Hic septingentis annisterra cumulatus, Christi clementis instinctibus inde levatus. Isto sub lapide nunc iacet ipse, vide. Atque domum Christo quia mundo fecit in isto, Nunc pro mercede celi requiescit in ede. Respice mortalis, promissio sit tibi talis. Accipies si des, nil capies nisi des. Es Christo qualis, Christus erit tibi talis, Dapsilis esto sibi, largus eritque tibi. Effectus non affectus si reddere possis, Debet censeri; si nihil reddere possis, Tunc bonus affectus pro facto debet haberi. Sicut de lignis per aquam depellitur ignis. Sic malo commissa fiunt donando remissa. Reddet ad usuram quod quis dat nomine Christi, Nam vitam puram pro parvo dat Deus isti. His wife Aethelgoda died the 13. of September, Ann. Dom. 615: Upon the wall by this Tomb, the image of Saint Peter is depicted, speaking to king Sebert in these verses. Hic Rex Seberte pausas, mihi condita per te Hec loca lustravi, demum lustrando dicavi. Edward king of England, surnamed the Confessor. Here lieth honourably interred in a marble Tomb, chequered with variety of stones, of beautiful colours; the body of Edward king of England, who for his singular piety was numbered among the Confessors; a principal Founder of this Church. Thus commended by a late writer. 〈◊〉. ●arn●r. ●lb. Engl. Religious, chaste, wise, fortunate, stout, frank, and mild was he, And from all taxes, wrongs, and foes, did set his kingdom free. His Epitaph here inscribed consists of these three Hexameters. Omnibus insignis virtutum landibus Heros, Sanctus Edwardus Confessor, Rex venerandus; Quinto die jani moriens super Ethera scandit. Sursum corda. Moritur Ann. Dom. 1065. Serlo of Paris hath another Epitaph to his memory in these words. Mss. in bib. Cot. Edwardus probitate potens, pietate verendus, Seque suosque regens rexerat egregius. Formosam faciem procerum corpus habebat, Leticiam vultus moribus exuperans. Hic bello, sic pace suos exterruit hosts Presumpsit pacem rumpere nemo suam. Quinque dies anui reserebat ianua jani, Cum Rex egrediens carnea templa finite. My old Author Robert of Gloucester goes more punctually to the period of his life, the years, months, weeks, and days of his reign, and time of his burial. When saint Edward had thus told, he gan to clos his eyghe The iiii day of januar then 'gan he die, In the yer of our Lord M.lxvi right Aftur that our sweet Lord in his mother alight, King he was xxiiii yer, and two monyethes thereto, And three weeks, and vi deyes, ●r his life was ido. All the franchise of Engelond, and all the joy and bliss, With him fast i beryd was thulke tim I wis; And that men fond soon aftyrward with many delful cas. Atte Westmynster a twelfth day this Godeman buried was. Rob. Glocest. He was for his simpleness (saith the same Author) i called Edward Simple, yet sooth our Lord noryshede his simpleness, and give him great graze that men should be adread of him that courhe natte be wroth, and though men trowed him to be slow and sim●le, he had such subjects undyr him that atte his hes● dauntyd his enemies as Syward Earl of Northumbyrlonde, and Leofricus Earl of Hereforde, that defended the king ever mor with their manhood, and favour against the mantenors of Duc Godwy●●e. Questionless, for sanctity of life and sweet conversation, he did far excel all other Princes; and kings of that disposition are for the most part too soft and piiant (an imperfection in supreme authority) to command the turbulent spirits of an unsettled kingdom; and their understanding too shallow to d●ue into the depth of their enemy's designs. This Edward was the seventh son of King Etheldred, by Emma his second wife, daughter of Richard the second, Duke of Normandy; he was borne at Islip in the County of Oxford; The first ●oure of the ●i●gs 〈◊〉. he was about forty years of age when he was enthroned in the seat Imperiall. He was the first king of England that healed the disease, since called the king's Evil. His wife Editha lieth buried at the North si●e of his Tomb, 〈◊〉 king Edward's wife. who was the daughter of Godwin, that treacherous Earl of Kent; a virgin most chaste, whose breast was a schoolhouse of all liberal sciences, mild, modest, faithful, innocent, and unfeignedly holy, no way savouring of her father's barbarousness, being never hurtful to any. Whereupon this verse was applied unto her, and her father. Sicut Spina Rosam genuit Godwinus Editham: From pricked stalk as sweetest Rose, So Edith fair from Godwin grows. Of which another writeth thus. Godwyne earl a dawghtyr he had, Rob. Glocest. that was of great fame And of clean life also, Edithe was her name. And as the Roos of a briar springeth that keen is, Also sprunge this holy maid of liche kind I wis. She died in December, 1074. in the eight year of her widowhood, and in the eight year of the Conquerors reign. Professing upon her deathbed, that notwithstanding she had been king Edward's wife the space of eighteen years, yet she died a pure Virgin. For this, king Edward (not without reason) is taxed, in that he under a godly pretext of Religion, and vowed virginity, cast off all care of having issue, and exposed the kingdom to the prey of ambitious humours. Yet some, that would excuse him in this, affirm, that this holy king was not willing to beget any heirs, that should succeed him out of a treacherous race. Here lieth, Maud wife to king Henry the first. without any Tomb, Maude, daughter to Malcolm Camoir, king of Scots, and wife to king Henry the first; who brought unto him children, William, Richard, and Mary, which perished by shipwreck, and Maud Empress, who was wise to Henry the fifth Emperor. She died the first day of May: Maij prima dies nostrorum nocte dierum, raptam perpetua fecit inesse die, Ex Mss. in bib. Cot. 1118. She had an excellent Epigram made to her commendation whereof these four verses only remain. Prospera non laetam fecere, nec aspera tristem, Aspera risus erant, prospera terror erant. Non decor effecit fragilem, non sceptra superbam; Sola potens humilis, sola pudica decens. Thus paraphrastically translated. No prosperous state did make her glad; Nor adverse chances made her sad. If Fortune frowned she then did smile, If Fortune smiled, she feared the while. If Beauty tempted, she said nay; No pride she took in Sceptres sway. She only high herself debast; A Lady only fair and chaste. She went every day in the Lent time to this Church barefoot, and barelegd, wearing a garment of hair; she would wash and kiss the feet of the poorest people, and give them bountiful Alms. For which being reprehended by a Courtier, she gave him a short answer, which I have out of Robert of Gloucester. The Courtier's speech. Madame for God's love is this well i do To handle sich unclean ●ymmes, and to kiss so Fowl would the king think if that hit he wist, And right well abyse him ere he your mouth kissed, The Queen's answer. Sur sur qd the Queen be still why saist thou so our Lord himself ensample gave so for to do. She founded (as I have said before) the Priory of Christ-church within Aldgate, and the Hospital of S. Giles in the Fields. She builded the Bridges over the River of Lea at Stratford Bow, and over the little Brook called Chanelsebridge; she gave much likewise to the repairing of highways. But I will take my leave of her with these words of Paris: Mat. Paris ad Ann. 1118. Obijt eodem anno Matildis Regina Anglorum cuius corpus apud Westmonasterium quietem sepulturae accepit, & anima eius se coelum possidere evidentibus signis et miraculis crebris ostendit. King Henry the third. Here lieth under a rich Monument of Porphery, adorned with precious stones, the body of Henry the third, king of England. In the fifth year of whose reign, and the Saturday next before his second time of Coronation, the New work (the old being ruinous and pulled down) of this Church of Westminster, Mat. West. was begun. To which sacred Edifice this king was a persuader: he was the Founder, and laid the first stone in the groundwork of the building. Rob. Glocest. The Newerke at Westmynstre ye king though gan anon, after his coroning and laid the fyrst stone. As if he meant the world should know, his intention was to consecrate his future actions to the glory of God. He gave to this Church royal gifts of Copes, jewels, and rich vessels: and for the holy Relics of Edward the Confessor, he caused a coffin to be made of pure gold and precious stones, and so artificially by the most cunning Goldsmiths that could be gotten; that although the matter it was made of, was of an inestimable value, tamen Materiam superabat opus, yet the workmanship excelled the matter, saith Matthew Paris. A Prince he was, as our histories affirm, of greater devotion than discretion, in permitting the depredation of himself and his subjects by papal overswaying. This King (saith Robert of Gloucester) as in worldlich doing was not hauled full wise, but mor devout to spiritual things; he was every day woned to here three Masses by note. Quante innocenty, quante patienty, quanteque devotionis, et quanti meriti in vita sua erat apud Deum, testantur post ipsius mortem miracula subsecuta: Of how much integrity, of how much patience, of how much devotion, and of how much merit he was in his life time before God, the miracles which followed after his death, do testify, saith the compendious chronicle of Canterbury. He died the 16 of November 1273. when he lived sixty five years, Mss. in bib. Cot and reigned fifty six years, and eighteen days, this Epitaph following is annexed to his Tomb. Tertius Henricus iacet hic pietatis amicus Ecclesiam stravit istam, quam post renovauit Reddet ei munus qui regnat trinus et unus: Tertius Henricus est Templi conditor huius. Dulce bellum inexpertis. Which is thus Englished by Robert Fabian. The friend of pity, and of alms deed, Henry the thyrde whilom of England King, Who this Church broke, and after his meed Again renewed into this fair building, Now resteth in here, which did so great a thing▪ He yield his meed, that Lord in Deyite; That as one God reigneth in people three. Henry the thyrde is the builder of this Temple. War is pleasant to those that have not tried it. In the additions to Robert of Gloucester, a Manuscript in the Herald's Office, these rhymes are written to his remembrance. Aftur him reigned the thurd Harry, A good man and eke an hely In his tim werrys were full strong, And eke much strife in england. The battle of Lewis was than, And alsoo the battle of Euesham. And that tim alsoo there was The translation of Scent Thomas. In his tim as I undyrstond Come Freres Menores' into this land. He reigned King lvi. year, And to Westmynstre men him bear. King Edward the 〈◊〉. At the head of the foresaid King Henry, his son Edward, surnamed Long-Shanks, lieth entombed; King of England, the first of that Christian name since the Conquest: and as he was the first of his name, so was he the first that settled the law and state, Sir Rob. 〈◊〉. deserving the stile of England's justinian, and freed this kingdom from the wardship of the Peers; showing himself in all his actions after, capable to command not the Realm only, but the whole world. At the time of his Father's death, he was abroad in Palestine, pursuing his high desires for the Holy Wars, and after six years, from his first setting out, he returns into England, receives the Crown (without which he had been a King almost three years) at the hands of Robert, Archbishop of Canterbury; and with him is Eleanor his virtuous Queen, likewise crowned at Westminster. To the which their magnificent pompous Coronations, the presence of Alexander, King of Scotland, (who had married Margaret his eldest sister) was required, as appears by this Record following. Ex. Arch. Turr. Lond. Rex dilectis et fidelibus suis johanni Lovetot et Galfrido de Newbald Custodibus Episcopatus Deunelm. Salutem. Mandamus vobis quod de primis denarijs provenientibus de exitibus Episcopatus predicti, habere faciatis Alexandro Regi Scotie centum sexaginta et quindecim libras pro expensis suis per quinque Septimanas. viz. singulis diebus centum solidos in veniendo ad nos usque Westmonaster. ad mandatum nostrum, et inde ad partes suas redeundo. Et nosea vobis ad Scaccarium nostrum saciemus allocari. Teste meipso apud Windesore 26 die Augusti. Anno Regni nostri 2. Claus. An. 2. Ed 1. Memb. 44. King Ed. Coronation. The said King Alexander comes accordingly to his Brother's Coronation (which was in September 1275) guarded with a goodly troop of Knights and Gentlemen; at which solemnity also were present, john, Duke of Britain, who had married Beatrice his second sister; Eleanor his mother, with multitudes of Peers and others: and for the more royal celebration of this great Feast, and honour of so martial a King, there were five hundreth great horses let loose, every one to take them for his own, who could. Of which, out of an old oreworne Manuscript, a piece as followeth. King Edward was coronyd and anointed as right heir of Engelond, with moche honour and worsschyp. And aftur Mass, the King went to his Paleys for to hold a rial feste, among them that him had done service and worsschyp. And when he was set at his meet, King Alexandre of Scotland come to do him service and worsschyp with a quaintise, and an hondryd knights with him, horsed and arrayed. And when they weren light of their horse, they let their horse goon whether they would, and they that would take them, had them to their own behoof, without any chalange. And after that come Sir Edmond King Edward's Brother, a curtayse Knight and a gentle of ren●on, and the Earl of cornwall, and the Earl of Glowcesire. And after them come the Earl of Penbroke, and the Earl of Warren, and each of them led on their hands be themself an hordryd knights, disgyse in their arms. And when they weren alight of their horse, they let them go whedyr they would, and they that could them take, had them still at their own liking. And when all this was done, King Edward did his dyligens and his might to amend the realm, and redress the wrongs in the best manner, to the honour of God, and profit to the crown, and to holy cherche, and to amend the annoyance of the common people. The worthiest knight he was of all the world of honour and worsschyp, for the grace of God was in him, and ever had the vyctory of his enemies. Expugnavit Saracenos, Chron. Compend. Cant. Mss. in bib. Cot. Francos, Scotos, Wallenses et perfidos christianos; et quicquid regale glory et honori tam in actibus quam in moribus competit in ipso potuit reperiri. He vanquished the saracenes, the French, the Scots, the Welsh, and perfidious Christians, and whatsoever appertained to Regal glory and honour, as well in actions as in condition, state, and princely deportment, was in him to be found. Dum vi●it Rex, et valuit sua magna potestas, Fraus latuit, pax magna fuit, regnavit honestas. Saith an old Latin Rhymer of this King; which is thus translated into the like English. While lived this King, By his power all thing Was in good plight Fabian. For guile was hid, Great peace was * Kept. kid And honest had might. Scotos Edward dum vixit suppeditavit Tenuit, afflixit, depressit, dilaniavit. Whilst Edward lived, the Scots he still kept under, Bridled, depressed, debased, rend asunder. Yet here give me leave to tell my Reader, (maugre this our English Rhymer) that the valiant Scots did not always suffer King Edward to scape scotfree; for he laying siege to the strong Town of Berwicke, they defended it manfully, bet the English men back, and burned some of the English Ships; upon which their fortunate enterprise in derision of our King, they made this mockish rhyme doggerell. Ca●ton. Fabian. Wenyth king Edward with the long shankies, To have gotten Berwyk all our unthankies. Goos Pike him And after that Gas dyke him. This scornful ditty came no sooner to king Edward's ears, then that through his mighty strength, he passed dikes, assailed the Town, and won it with the death of fifteen thousand Scots, S. Daniel. (our writers report more; but nothing is more uncertain, than the number of the slain in battle) and after that the Castles of Dunbarre, Roxborough, Edinburgh, Sterling, and Saint john's Town, won or yielded unto him; upon the winning of the Castle of Dunbarre, The battle of Dunbarre. by a fierce and cruel battle; some Ballad maker or other in the Army, made these metres in reproach of the Scots. These scatering Scots We hold for sots Of wrenkes unware early in a morwening In an evil tyming Went they from Dunbarre. The battle of Foukirke. Munster. Vnivers. Cosm. lib. 2. Walsing Ypodig. Another bloody battle he had with the Scots at Foukirke, wherein are reported to be slain, two hundred knights, and forty thousand foot of the Scots. Some have threescore and ten thousand, some threescore thousand, the scottish footmen valorously fight, as it were to the last man. Upon these victories, king Edward endeavours to extinguish, if it were possible, the very memory of the Nation: abolishing all their ancient laws; traducing their Ecclesiastical rites, to the custom of England: dispoiling them of their Histories; their instruments of State: their antique monuments, left either by the Romans, or erected by themselves, transporting all their Books and Bookmen into England. Sending to Westminster the marble stone, wherein (as the vulgar were persuaded) the Fate of the kingdom consisted, of which will you please to take this Stanza out of Harding▪ Hard. cap. 162. And as he came homeward by Skone away, The Regal thereof scotlan than he brought, And sent it forth to Westmynster for aye To be there in a cheire cleanly wrought For a mass pressed to sit in when he ought▪ Which there was standing beside the shrine, In a cheire of old time made full fyne. A little more of this marble stone out of Robert of Gloucester. — Scots yc●upyd wer Aftur a woman that Scote hight, the dawter of Pharaon. Yat broghte into Scotlond a white marble stone, Yat was ordained for hure king, when he coroned were. And for a great jewyll long hit was yholde there, King Edward with the long Shankes fro Scotland hit fet Beside the Shrine of saint Edward at Westminstre 〈◊〉 h●●te set. Upon the Chair wherein the stone is enclosed, this famous prophetical Distichon is inscribed. Ni fallat vatum Scoti hunc quocunque locatum Invenient lapidem, regnare tenentur ibidem. If Fates go right where ere this stone is pight, The Regal race of Scots shall rule that place. Which, by whomsoever it was written, we, who now live, find it happily accomplished. Of the worthiness of this our matchless King, will it please you hear a little from a late Writer, namely, M. Drayton, in the seventeenth Song of Polyolbion. * Henry the third. This long-lived Prince expyred: the next succeeded; he Of us, that for a God might well related be. Our Longshanks, Scotland's scourge, who to the Orcads taught His Sceptre, and with him from wild Albania brought, The relics of her Crown (by him first placed here) * Henry the third. The seat on which her Kings inaugurated were. He tamed the desperate Welsh, that out so long had stood, And made them take a Prince sprung of the English blood. This Isle from Sea to Sea, he generally controlled, And made the other parts of England both to hold. The learned Antiquary and Lawyer, john Selden, in his Illustrations upon the said Song, gives us this Gloss following upon the Verse. The seat on which our Kings inaugurated were. This seat (saith he) is the Chair and Stone at Westminster, whereon our Sovereigns are inaugurated. The Scottish Stories affirm, that the Stone was first in Gallicia of Spain at Brigantia (whether that be Compostella, as Francis Tarapha wills, or Coronna, as Florian deal Campo conjectures, or Betansos' according to Mariana, I cannot determine) where Gathel, king of Scots there, sat on it as his Throne. Thence was it brought into Ireland by Simon Breach, first king of Scots, transplanted into that Isle, about seven hundred years before Christ. Out of Ireland, King Ferguze (in him by some is the beginning of the now continuing Scottish reign) about three hundred and seventy years afterward brought it into Scotland. King Kenneth some eight hundred and fifty of the Incarnation, placed it at the Abbey of Scone (in the Shrifdome of Perth) where the Coronation of his Successors was usual, as of our Monarches now at Westminster; and in the Saxon times at Kingston upon Thames. This Kenneth, some say, caused the Distich. The fatal Marble. Ni fallat vatum, as before, to be engraven upon it. Whereupon it is called Fatale Marmor in Hector Boetius, and enclosed it in a wooden Chair. It is now at Westminster, and on it are the Coronations of our Sovereigns: Thither first brought (as the Author here speaks) among other spoils, by Edward Longshanks, after his wars and victories against King john Balliol, Ann. 1297. Reg. Regis Ed. 1.24. Thus much of this potent king out of Polyolbion. But to return, these high spirited Scots (than which no people in the world are more valiant) not minding to endure the tyranny of King Edward, entered into England at several times; and in Northumberland and Cumberland, The cruelty of the Scots. slew the aged and impotent, women in childbed, and young children; spoiled the Abbey Church at Hexham, and got a great number of the Clergy, as well Monks, Priests, as Scholars, whom they thrust into the schoolhouse there, Rich Southwell. Ho●●inshead. and closing up the doors, set fire on the School, and burned all them to ashes that were within it. They burned Churches, they forced women without respect of order, condition, or quality, as well the maids, widows, and wives, as Nuns, that were reputed in those days consecrated to God, & when they had been so abused, many of them were after murdered. So that the cruel and bloody desolation whereof Lucan speaketh in his second book of the Pharsalian wars, may aptly be inferred here, as fitly describing the merciless murder of all states and sexes, without partiality, under the hand of the enemy. For, saith he, Nobilitas cum plebe perit, lateque vagatur Ensis, & a nullo revocatum est pectore ferrum, Stat cruor in templis, multaque rubentia caede Lubrica saxa madent, nulli iam prosuit aetas, Non senis extremum piguit vergentibus annis Praecipitasse diem, non primo in limine vitae Infantis miseri nascentia rumpere fata. Thus exquisitely translated into English. Senators with Plebeians lost their breath, ●ro. May. The sword raged uncontrolled: no breast was free: The Temples stained with blood, and slippery Were the red stones with slaughter: no age than Was free: the near spent time of aged men They hastened on; nor shamed with bloody knife, To cut the Infants new spun thread of life. Blood worthy to have been shed on both sides, against another kind of enemy, than Christians: the deformity of which effusions, may justly represent unto us the blessed estate of our now settled Union. Ranulph the Monk of Chester, speaks somewhat more succinctly of the warlike passages in those times, betwixt the puissant brave English, and the terrible never-tamed Scot on this manner; I will use the old language of his Translator Trevisa, who flourished in the reign of king Henry the sixth. Polychron. l. 7. cap. 40. john de Baillol (saith he) that was made king of Scotlond, aroos against the king of england, and against his own oath; and by the counsell of some men of Scotland, and namely of theabbot of M●●ros, 〈◊〉 was taken and disherited. Then the year after Willi●m 〈…〉 of Scots arrayed were against king Edward, but he was 〈…〉 second year after; King Edward slew●●x 〈◊〉 and Scots 〈…〉 on a Mary Mawdelyn day. But the Scots waxed stronger and stronger 〈◊〉 tie years together, unto king Edward's time the thyrd after the 〈◊〉 and beat down englishmen of●, and English places that were 〈…〉 her Marches. Some said that that mishap fell for so●●nesse of the english men▪ And some said that it was God's own werche as the 〈…〉 That english men should be destroyed by Danes, by French men, 〈◊〉 by Scots. Of this prophetical prediction I have spoken elsewhere, which 〈◊〉 that of the marble stone) upon the inauguration of our late Souer●●●●● Lord King james, of happy memory, in his Regal Chair of Impe●●●●● government, had full accomplishment. The period of the days, as also the character of this magnificent Monarch Edward, are thus delivered by a late Writer. In july, 1307 although he found himself not well, he enter; Scotland with a fresh Army, which he led not far; for falling into a dysentery, he dies at Borough upon the sand●, as if to show on what foundation 〈◊〉 h●d built all his glory in this world: having reigned thirty four years, seven months, aged sixty eight. A Prince of a generous spirit, wherein the fire held out even to the very last: borne and bred for action and military af●faires, which he managed with great judgement: ever wary and provident for his own business: watchful and eager to enlarge his power: and was more for the greatness of England, than the quiet thereof. And this we may justly say of him, that never king before, or since, shed so much Christian blood within this Isle of Britain, as this Christian warrior did 〈◊〉 his time, and was the cause of much more in that following. By our great and judicious Antiquary Camden, he is thus 〈◊〉, as followeth. For no one thing was this little Burgh upon Sands more famous, than, that King Edward the first, that triumphant Conqueror of his enemies, was here taken out of the world by untimely death A ●ight noble and worthy Prince, to whom God proportioned a most princely presence and personage, as a right worthy seat to entertain so heroical a mind For he not only in regard of fortitude and wisdom, but also for a beautiful and personal presence was in all points answerable to the height of Royal Majesty, whom fortune also in the very Prime and flower of his age, enured to many a war, and exercised in most dangerous troubles of the state, whiles she framed and fitted him for the Empire of Britain; which he, being once crowned King, managed and governed in such wise, that having subdued the Welsh, and vanquished the Scots, he may most justly be counted a chief ornament and honour of Britain. Amongst other admonitions and precepts, which he gave to his son Edward (after him king of England) upon his death bed he charged him, 〈◊〉 of ●a●singham. that he should carry his Father's bones about with him in some Coffin, till he had marched through all Scotland, and subdued all his enemies, for that none should be able to overcome him while his Skeleton marched with him: thinking, belike, that the care to preserve them from enemies would make a Son fight nobly. Moreover he commanded the said Prince, That whereas himself, by the continual new attempts of Bruce, king of Scotland, could not in person (according to his vow) make war in the Holy-land, therefore he should send his Heart thither, accompanied with sevenscore knights, and their retinues, for whose support he had provided thirty and two thousand pounds of silver. That his Heart being so by them conveyed, he did hope in God, that all things there would prosper with them. Lastly, That upon pain of eternal damnation, the said money should not be expended upon any other uses. Walsing. Sed filius immorigerus patris mandata negligit: But the disobedient Son little regarded the commandment of his Father. He died the seventh of july, the year aforesaid; his body was conveyed to this Abbey, and accompanied most of the way with the Pope's Legate, the reverend Bishops, and most of the English Nobility, where it was interred with that state as became the person of so potent a Prince; The dead bodies of our English kings (anciently) preserved from corruption. And such was the care of his Successors, to keep his body from corruption, as that the Cerecloth wherein his embalmed body was enwrapped, was often renewed, as doth appear upon Record thus. Rex Thesaurario & Camerarijs suis Salutem. Mandamus vobis quod Ceram existentem circa corpus celebris memorie Domini Edwardi nuper Regis Anglie progenitoris nostri filij Regis Henrici, Ex Arch. Turr. Lond. in Ecclesia beati Petri Westm. humatum, de denarijs nostris renovari facietis, prout hactenus fieri constituit. Teste Rege apud Westm. xi die julij. Claus. 1. Ric. 2. Memb. 41: Certain rhymes or verses, are annexed to his Tomb as followeth. Mors est inesta nimis magnos que iungit in imis, Maxima mors minimis coniungens ultima primis; Nullus in orbe fuit homo vivens nec valet esse Qui non morte ruit: est hinc exire necesse. Nobilis & fortis, tibi tu consider noli, Omnia sunt mortis, sibi subdit singula soli, De mundi medio magnum mors impia movit, Anglia pre tedio satis anxia plangere novit: Corruit Edwardus vario veneratus honore, Rex nuper ut Nardus fragrans virtutis odour, Cord Leopardus, invictus & absque pavore, Ad rixam tardus, discretus, & eucharis ore. Viribus armorum quasi Gigas ardua gessit, Colla superborum prudens per prelia pressit, Inter Flandrenses fortuna sibi bene favit, Vt quoque Wallenses & Scotos suppeditavit. Rex bonus absque pari strenue sua regna regebat. Quod natura dari potuit bonitatis habebat. Actio justice, pax regni, sanctio legis, Et fuga nequitie premunt precordia Regis. Gloria tota ruit, Regem capit hec modo fossa, Rex quandoque fuit, nunc nil nisi puluis et ossa: Filius ipse Dei quem corde colebat et ore, Gaudia fecit ei nullo permista dolore. The which verses (saith Fabian) to the intent that they should be had in mind, and also that the reader might have the more desire to overreade them; I have therefore set them out in Baladde Royal, after my rude making as followeth. This sorrowful death which bringeth great full low, Fabians Ballad Royal. And most and leest he joineth into one, This man to whom his peer was not y know Hath now subdued, nat sparing him alone, Which of all order this world to overgone, None was to be spared, of so great equity As he, if any, for noblesse spared should be. Therefore thou noble or mighty, trust none oder grace, But thou shalt pay to death thy natural debt; And like as he from this world did chase This mighty Prince, and from his friends fet, For whom all england loud mourned and great: So shalt thou and oder in deths' snare fall, None shall escape, to reckyn kinds all. Edward with many and diverse graces endowed, And like as Nardus most sweetest of odour, In smelling passeth, and most he is allowed Of all sweet odours, so did this knightly flower By virtuous arts surmount in honour, All oder Princes; whose heart was Lybar delyke, And without fere, were he hole or sick. This Prince was slow to all manner of strife, Discrete, and wise, and true of his word, In arms a giant, term of all his life, Excelling acts doing by dint of the sword, subdued the proud, of prudence he bore the horde, Of Flaunders by fate he had great amity, And Walshe, and Scots, by strength subdued he. This good King peerless, his lands firmly guided, What nature might give he failed in nothing, No part of bounty from his was decided, He was justice, and peace, and of law stablishing, And chaser of iniquity by his virtuous living: In whom these graces with innumerable more, firmly were roted, that death hath ta'en us fro. That whilom was a King, now is but dust and bone, All glory is fallen, and this pit keepeth the king, But he that yieldeth all thing by his one, The Son of God, to whom above all thing With heart and mouth he did all worsshypping, That Lord of his joy perdurable to last, Grant him sorrowless evermore to taste. All Kings have long hands, alluding to the extensure of their Regal government, of which Ovid in one of his Epistles: thus, An nescis longas Regibus esse manus? This King had also long legs, and, a longis tibijs, surnamed he was Longshanks. But I stray beyond my limits, his virtues have taken me prisoner, and detained me much longer than I expected; let me take liberty to conclude with these verses, in commendation of his valour, out of the fore-remembred additions to Robert of Gloucester. Edward the furst reguyd than truly, The son he was of King Harry: He conquered than all Scotlond, Ano took ireland into his hand. And was called that tim Conqueror. God yive his soul much honour In his tim he made subject Alwalys, and put them under * 〈◊〉 yecke, He behedyd thilk same tim The Prince of UUalys lewelyn, Jews that tim withouten doubt, Of this land were clear put out: at Westmynstre he had by burying xxxv year he reguyd king. 〈◊〉 Queen of England. Here lieth entombed, Eleanor his first wife, Queen of England, who went with him into the holy land, in which voyage her husband was stabbed with a poisoned dagger by a Sarazen, the rankled wound whereof was judged incurable by his Physicians, yet she daily and nightly sucked out the rank poison, and so by adventuring her own, saved her husband's life. She was the only daughter of Ferdinando, the third King of Castille and Leon's: she died at Herdby in Lincolnshire, 29 November 1290. having been King Edward's wife 36 years, who erected to her honour those Crosses, as Statues, at Lincoln, Grantham, Stanford, Geddington, Northampton, Stony Stratford, Dunstable, (now destroyed) Saint Alban, Waltham, and Westminster, called Charingcross, all adorned with the arms of Castille, Leon, and the Earldom or County of Ponthieu, which by her right was annexed to the Crown of England. Moreover the said King Edward (so ardent was his affection to the memory of his deceased Eleanor) gave twelve Manors, Lordships, and Hamlets, to Walter then Abbot of Westminster, and his successors for ever, for the keeping of yearly Obits for his said Queen, and for money that should be geeven to the poor, that came to the solemnisation of the same. Her Epitaph. Nobilis Hispani iacet hic soror inclita Regis, Eximij consors Eleanora thori. Edwardi primi Wallorum principis uxor, Cui pater Henricus tertius Anglus erat. Hanc ille uxorem gnato petit: omine princeps Legati munus suscipit ipse bono, Alfonso Fratri placuit felix Hymeneus, Germanam Edwardo nec sine dote dedit. Does preclara fuit, nec tali indigna marito Pontino Princeps munere diues erat. Femina consilio prudens, pia, prole beata; Auxit amicitijs, auxit honore virum. Disce mori. Here lieth gloriously entombed, Edward the third King of England. the most mighty Monarch that ever ware the Crown of England, who conquered Calis, recovered Aquitaine and Normandy, took john, King of France, and David King of Scots, prisoners; added the arms and title of France to his own, declaring his claim in this kind of verse: thus, Rex sum regnorum bina ratione duorum, Remains. Anglorum Regno sum Rex ego iure paterno; Matris iure quidem Francorum nuncupor idem. Hinc est Armorum variatio facta meorum. To which the French answered scornfully in verses to the same temper, but some what touching Edward with ill grounded vanity, pretending right to the Crown of France, by Queen Isabella his mother: before whom, (if Daughters should succeed in the sacred Lilies of France) her eldest Sister must march, Madam Margaret of France, wife to Ferdinand, fourth of that name, King of Castille. Praedo Regnorum qui diceris esse duorum, Favine in the orders of England. Francorum Regno privaberis, atque Paterno. Matris ubique nullum Ius Broles non habet ullum, jure Mariti carens alia est Mulier prior illa. Succedunt Mares huic Regno non Mulieres. Hinc est Armorum variatio stulta tuorum. He excelled his Ancestors also in the victorious valour of his children; in their obedience to him, and love among themselves; and one of his greatest felicities was, that he had a Lady to his wife (the fruitful mother of a fair issue) of such excellent virtue and government, as that then King Edward's Fortunes seemed to fall into Eclipse when she was hidden in her Sepulchre. He was the son of Edward the second by Isabel, daughter to Philip the Fair, King of France; his father being amoved from the kingdom's government, (against whom he had no guilty thought) he was by public Sanction thereupon established in the royal Throne, being of the age of fourteen years; and when he had reigned 50 years, died at his Manor of Shine, june 21. 1377. these verses are annexed to his monument. Hic decus Anglorum, flos Regum preteritorum Forma futurorum, Rex clemens pax populorum Tertius Edwardus, regni complens jubileum Inuictus Pardus, pollens bellis Machabeum. Tertius Edwardus Fama super ethera notus pugna pro patria. Four of these verses are thus translated by Speed in his History of the said King, where, upon the words Pollens bellis Machabeum he gives this marginal note, as followeth. He means (saith he) more able in battle, than Machabeus; you must bear with the breaking of Priscian's head, for it is written of a King that used to break many. Here England's grace, the flower of Princes past, Pattern of future, Edward the third is placed, Mild Monarch, Subject's peace, wars Machabee, Victorious * Alluding to the ●eopard● in the 〈…〉 Pard, his reign a jubilee. Take with you, if you please, another translation of these Metres by one who lived nearer to those times. Of English kings here lieth the beauteous flower, Of all before passed, and mirror to them shall sue, A merciful king, of peace conservator, The third Edward. The death of whom may rue Awl Englyssh men, for he by knyghtehode due Was Lyberd invict, and by feat Martial To worthy Machabe in virtue peregall. Cron. Compend. Cant. in bib. Col. His Character. Hic erat (saith an old Mss. speaking of this King) flos mundane militie, sub quo militare erat regnare, proficisci proficere, confligere triumphare. Cui iure maternali linea recta descendente, Regnum cum corona Francie debetur. Pro cuius regni adipiscenda corona, que maris evasit pericula; quos bellorum devicit impetus; quas Belligerorum struit audacias, scriptor enarrare desistit; sue relationis veritatem adulationis timens obumbrari velamine. Hic vero Edwardus quamuis in hosts terribilis extiterat, in subditos tamen mitissimus fuerat et gratiosus, pietate et miserecordia omnes pene suos precellens antecessores. Sam. Daniel. A late writer saith, he was a Prince the soon a man, and the longest that held so, of any we read; he was of personage comely, of an even stature, graceful, respectively affable, and well expressing himself. A Prince who loved justice, Order, and his people, the supreme virtues of a Sovereign. First his love of justice, His justice. was seen by the many Statutes he made for the due execution thereof, and the most straight-binding oath, he ordained to be ministered unto his judges and justiciars: the punishment inflicted on them for corruption in their offices, causing some to be thrust out, and others grievously fined. He bettered also that form of public justice which his Grandfather first began (and which remains to this day) making also excellent Laws for the same. His regard of Order. His regard to the observation of Order among his people, so many Laws do witness, as were made to restrain them from Excesses in all kinds. His love to his Subjects, His love to his people. was expressed in the often easing of their grievances, and his willingness to give them all fair satisfaction, as appears by the continual granting of the due observation of their Charters in most of his Parliaments. And when (Ann. Reg. 14.) they were jealous, upon his assuming the title of the kingdom of France, lest England should thereby come to be under the subjection of that Crown, as being the greater, he to clear them of that doubt, passed a Statute, in the firmest manner could be devised, that this kingdom should remain entire as before, without any violation of the rights it had. Provident he was in all his actions, His Providence. never undertaking any thing before he had first furnished himself with means to perform it. For his gifts we find them not such as either his own fame and reputation, or any way distasted the State. To be short, he was a Prince who knew his work, and did it: and therefore was he better obeyed, better respected and served, than any of his Predecessors. His works of Piety were great and many, His works of Piety. as the founding of Eastminster an Abbey (of the Cisteux order) near the Tower. An Abbey for Nuns at Dartford in Kent (of both which I have already written) The King's Hall in Cambridge for poor Scholars. An Hospital for the poor at Calais. The building of Saint Stephen's Chapel at Westminster, with the endowment of three hundred pound, per annum, to that Church. His augmenting the Chapel at Windsor, and provisions there for Churchmen, and twenty four poor knights, His buildings. etc. These were his public works, the best Monuments and most lasting to glorify the memory of Princes. Besides these, his private buildings are great and many; as the Castle of Windsor, which he re-edified and enlarged. His magnificence was showed in Triumphs and Feasts, which were sumptuously celebrated, with all due rites and ceremonies, the preservers of Reverence and Majesty: To conclude, he was a Prince, whose nature agreed with his office, as only made for it. On this manner, as he was in the strength of his years, and in the height of his vigorous actions, his character is expressed by many Authors. Now may it please you in this place to take a view of this the mighty great Monarch of England, France, and Ireland, as he was wrinkled with age, weakened with a sore lingering disease, and laid down upon his Deaths-bed. When he had attained to the age of threescore and five years, or thereabouts, and wrestled with a sickness which gave him the overthrow; lying in the bed, and at the point of death, his eyes darkened, his speech altered, and his natural heat almost extinguished, Walsing. in vit. Ed. 3. one, whom of all other he most entirely affected, took the rings from his fingers, which for the royalty of his Majesty he was wont to wear, so bade him adieu; and withdrew herself into another room (a woman she was, inverecunda p●llex, as Walsingham calls her, whose name was Alice Piers) neither was he left only of her the said Alice, but of other the knights and Esquires, who had served him, alured more with his gifts then his love. Amongst many there was only present at that time a certain Priest (other of his servants applying the spoil of what they could lay hands on) who lamenting the king's misery, and inwardly touched with grief of heart, for that amongst so many Councillors which he had, there was none that would minister unto him the word of life, came boldly unto him, and admonished him to lift up the eyes as well of his body, as of his heart, unto God, and with sighs to ask mercy of him, whose Majesty he well knew he had grievously offended. Whereupon the king listened to the words of the Priest, and although a little before he had wanted the use of his tongue, yet then taking strength to him, he seemed to speak what was in his mind. And than what for weakness of his body, contrition of his heart, and sobbing for his sins, his voice and speech failed him, and scarce half pronouncing this word jesus, he gave up the Ghost, at his Manor of Sheen (now Richmount) as aforesaid. If you will hear any more of this Martial king, you must have the patience to trouble yourselves in the reading of these obsolete old rhymes. Aftur Add. Rob. Glocest. him reguyd his son full right The iii Edward that dowtie knight. U. sons he had truly here, That were to him leef and dear. Furst yis king dude a great mastery, at Scluce he burnt a great Naby. at Tress he fought ayain, The king of * Bohemia. Beme ther was slain, And the king of France put to flight, Non longor than durst he fight. A siege at Calais he lead byfor, That last xii months and mor: And or he thence would go, He won Calais and touns moo. at battle of poitiers, by ordinance, Was taken john the king of France. at Westmynstre he lieth there He reigned almost li yet Byfor him died Prince Edward Which had a son that hight Richard. Philip Queen of England. Philippe (of whom I have spoken before) Queen of England, wife of Edward the third, daughter of William of Bavaria, Earl of Henault, and Holland, by joan sister of Philip of Valois, king of France, lieth entombed at her husband's feet; She was a Lady of great virtue, and a constant true lover of our Nation; who when she had been king Edward's wife forty two years, she died August, 15. 1369. These verses are annexed to her Monument. Gulielmi Hannonis sobeles postrema Philippe, Hic roseo quondam pulchra decore iacet. Tertius Edwardus Rex ista coninge letus Materno suasu nobiliumque fuit. Frater Iohannes Comes Mauortius heros, Huic illam voluit consociare viro. Hec iunxit Flandros coniunctio sanguinis Anglis: In Francos venit hinc Gallica dira lues▪ Dotibus hec raris viguit Regina Philippe Forma prestanti, Religione, fide. Fecunda nata est proles numerosa parenti, Insignes peperit magnanimosque duces. Oxonij posuit studiosis optima nutrix Regineas Edes, Palladiam scholam. Coniux Edwardi iacet hic Regina Philippe. Disce vivere. Thus there Englished: Fair Philip William Hennaldes child and youngest daughter dear, Of roseate hue, and beauty bright, in tomb lies hilled here. Edward the third through mother's will, and Nobles good consent; took her to wife, and joyfully with her his time he spent. His brother john a Martial man, and eke a valiant knight, Did link this woman to this king in bonds of marriage right. This match and marriage thus in blood, did bind the Flemings sure To Englishmen, by which they did the Frenchmens wrack procure. This Philip flowered in gifts full rare, and treasures of the mind, In beauty bright, Religion, Faith; to all and each most kind, A fruitful Mother Philip was, full many a son she bred, And brought forth many a worthy knight, hardy, and full of dread. A careful Nurse to Students all, at Oxford she did found Queen's College, and Dame Pallas School, that did her fame resound. The wife of Edward, dear, Queen Philip lieth here: Learn to live. She was the youngest of the five daughters of William Earl of Henault aforesaid; especially chosen before any of her Sisters for king Edward's wife, by a Bishop (of what See I am uncertain) and other Lords temporal, sent thither, were sent as Ambassadors, to treat of the marriage. Of which thus much out of Harding. cap. 178. as followeth. He sent forth than, to Henauld for a wife, A Bishop, and other Lords temporal, Where in chambered prevy and secretife, At discoverit dischenely also in all, As seeming was to estate Virginal Among theim selfes, our lords for high prudence Of the Bishop asked counsel and sentence. Which daughter of five should be the Queen, Who counciled thus, with sad avisement, We will have her with good hippis I mean, For she will bear good sons at mine intent; To which they all accorded by one assent, And chase Philip, that was full feminine, As the Bishop most wise did determine. But then among theim selfes they laugh fast ay, The lords than said, the Bishop couth Full mekill skill of a woman all way, That so couth cheese a lady that was uncouth, And for the merry words that came of his mouth They trowed he had right great experience Of womanes rule and her convenience. Now, what experience this Bishop had in women's conveniency of bringing forth children, I know not, but it so fell out, that she had issue by her said husband King Edward, seven sons, and five daughters, borne for the glory of our Nation. 1. Edward Prince of Wales, borne at Woodstock. 2. William, borne at Hatfield, in the County of Hertford. 3. Lionel, borne at the City of Antwerp, Duke of Clarence. 4. john, borne at Gaunt, the chief Town of Flanders, Duke of Lancaster. 5. Edmond, surnamed of Langley, Duke of York. 6. William, another of their Sons, surnamed of Windsor, where he was borne. 7. Thomas, the youngest son of King Edward and Queen Philip, surnamed of Woodstock, the place of his birth, Duke of Gloucester. Daughters. 1. Isabella, the eldest Daughter, was married with great pomp at Windsor, to Ingelram of Guisnes, Lord of Coucy, Earl of Soissoms, and after Archduke of Austria, whom king Edward his Father in law created also Earl of Bedford. 2. joan, desired in marriage by solemn Embassage from Alphons, king of Castille and Leon, son of king Ferdinando the fourth, was espoused by Proxy, entitled Queen of Spain, conveyed into that country, where she presently deceased of a great plague that then reigned. 3. Blanch the third daughter, died young, and lieth buried in this Abbey Church. 4. Marry the fourth daughter was married to john Montford, Duke of Britain. 5. Margaret their youngest daughter was the first wife of john de Hastings, Earl of Penbroke. It is reported of this Queen (saith Milles) that when she perceived her life would en●, she requested to speak with the King her husband, who accordingly came to her in great heaviness: being come, she took him by the hand, and after a few words of induction, she prayed him that he would in no wise deny her, in three requests. First, that all Merchants and others to whom she ought any debt, (whether on this side or beyond the seas) might be paid and discharged. Secondly, that all such promises as she had made to Churches, as well within the realm as without, might be performed. Thirdly, that he would be pleased (whensoever God should call him,) to choose none other Sepulchre, but that wherein her body should be laid: all which were performed, and so I leave them both lying in one Grave, expecting a joyful resurrection. Richard the second, Richard the second, King of England. King of England and France, Lord of Ireland, son to Edward, Prince of Wales, by joan, daughter to the Earl of Kent, being deprived both of living and life, by that popular usurper Henry the 〈…〉 by his commandment, obscurely buried at Langley in Hertfortshire, in the Church of the Friar's Predicants; was by the appointment of Henry the fifth, removed from thence with great honour, in a Chair royal, himself and his nobility attending the sacred relics of this anointed King: which he solemnly here interred amongst his ancestors, and founded perpetually one day every week, a Dirge, with nine Lessons and a morning mass to be celebrated for the soul of the said King Richard, Ranulph, Monk of Chester. Lib. ultimo. and upon each of those days, six shillings eight pence to be given to the poor people; and once every year upon the same day of his Anniverse, twenty pounds in pence to be distributed to the most needful: He made for him a glorious Tomb, and this glozing Epitaph deciphering the lineaments of his body, and qualities of mind; which to any, who knows upon what points he was put out of Majesty and State, may seem strange, if not ridiculous; thus it runs. Prudens et mundus Richardus iure secundus, Per fatum victus, iacet hic sub marmore pictus. Verax sermone, prudens suit et ratione. Corpore procerus, animo prudens ut Homerus, Ecclesie favit, elatos suppeditavit. Quemuis prostravit Regalia qui violavit. O bruit hereticos, et eorum stravit amicos. O clemens christe tibi devotus suit iste Votis baptist, salves quem protulit iste. Hic iacet immiti consumptus morte Richardus fuisse felicem miserrimum. Fabian who translated this Epitaph into English, Folio 166. desirous, as it seems, to extenuate the force of such palpable gross flattery; annexeth this stanze. But yet, alas, although this metre, or rhyme, Thus doth embellish this noble Prince's fame; And that some Clerk which favoured him sometime, L●st by his cunning thus to enhanse his name, Yet by his story appeareth in him some blame. Wherefore to Princes is surest memory, Their lyves to exercise in virtuous constancy. But john Harding, speaking of the greatness of his household, and the pride and whoredom therein, as well amongst the Clergy as laity, is more invective in his rhymes, which to read I hope will not be troublesome: thus he begins. Truly I herd Robert Ireleffe say 〈…〉 Clerk of the Grenecloth; and that to the Household Came every day, forth most party alway Ten thousand folk, by his messis told, That followed the house aye as they would. And in the Kechin three hundred Servitors, And in each office many occupiours. And Ladies fair, with their gentlewomen, Chamberers also and lavenders, Three hundred of them were occupied then. There was great pride among the Officers. And of all men far passing their compeers, Of rich array, and much more costious, Then was before, or sith, and more precious. In his Chapel, were Bishops then of * Bohemia. Beam, Some of Irelond, and some also of France; Some of england, and clerks of many a realm, That little cunning had or conisance. In music honourably God his service to avance In the Chapel, or in holy Scripture On matter of Goddis to refigure. Lewed men, they were in clerks clothing, Disguised fair, in form of clerks wise, Their Perishyns full little enfourming In Law divine, or else in God his service. But right practyfe they were in covetise Each year to make full great collection At home, in stead of soul's correction. Great Lechery and fornication Was in that house, and also great advoutree. Of Paramours was great consolation, Of each degree, well more of Prelacy Then of the temporal, or of the chivalry. Great tax ay the king took through all the land, For which Commons him hated both free and bond. john Gower concludes his cronica tripartita, annexed to his book entitled Vox Clamantis, with these rhyming verses concerning the said King. Cronica Richardi qui sceptra tulit Leopardi Vt patet est dicta, populo sed non benedicta Vt speculum mundi quo lux nequit ulla resundi, Sic vacuus transit, sibi nil nisi culpa remansit, Vnde superbus erat, modo si preconia querat. Eius honor sordet, laus culpat, gloria mordet: Hoc concernentes caveant qui sunt sapientes; Nam male viventes Deus odit in orbe regentes: Est qui peccator non esse potest dominator, Ricardo teste finis probat hoc manifest: Post sua demerita perijt sua pompa sopita Qualis erat vita cronica stabit ita. He was murdered at Pomfret Castle in the bloody Tower, (so called from that time (upon that bloody act) to this day,) on Saint Valentine's day, 1399. the first of Henry the fourth, when he had reigned 22 years. That beautiful picture of a King sighing, crowned in a chair of estate, at the upper end of the Choir in this Church, is said to be of him, which witnesseth how goodly a creature he was in outward lineaments: but I will conclude with these rhymes out of my old Manuscript, the Addition to Robert of Gloucester. This Richard than reigned soon Aftur his * Belsire as was to done, at x year of age crownyd was he, He was a man of great beute. In his tim the Comynte of Kent Up arysin and to London went; And Savoy the brent, that ilke plas, The which the Dukes of Lancastre was. Thurgh evil council was slain full suel The Duke of Glocestre, and the earl of Arundel. He reigned xxii yer and mor, And to Longeley was he bour. But in the v King Herry is tim, He was laid at Westmynstre by Anne the Queen. Anne his first wife here entombed with him, Anne, Queen of England. was the daughter of Wenceslaus, King of Bohemia, and Emperor of the Germans; she died in Anno 1394. the seventh of june, at Sheen in Surrey: whom her husband so fervently loved, yea, usque ad amentiam, even to a kind of madness, that for very grief and anger, Stow. Annal. (besides cursing the place wherein she died) he overthrew the whole house. Her Epitaph. Sub petra lata nunc Annaiacet tumulata, Dum vixit mundo Richardo nupta secundo: Christo devota fuit hec, facilis, bene nota; Pauperibus prona semper sua reddere dona; jurgia sedavit, et pregnantes relevauit. Corpore formosa, vultu mitis speciosa: Prebens solamen viduis, egris medicamen. Anno milleno, ter cent. quarto nonageno julij septeno mensis migravit ameno. forma Fragilis. Henry the fifth King of England. Henry the fifth, son of Henry the fourth, King of England, and conqueror of France, died at Boys de Viscenna, not far from Paris, the last of August, 1422. having reigned 9 years, 5 months, and odd days, from thence his body was conveyed to this Abbey; upon whose Tomb, Katherine his wife, caused a royal picture to be laid, covered all over with silver plate gilded, the head whereof was all of massy silver: all which (at the suppression, when the battering hammers of destruction, (as Master Speed saith) did sound almost in every Church) were sacrilegiously broken off, and by purloining, transferred to far prophaner uses, where at this day, the headless monument is to be seen, and these verses written upon his Tomb. Dux Normanorum, verus Conquestor eorum, Heres Francorum; decessit et Hector eorum. Here Normans Duke, so styled by conquest just, True heir of France; Great Hector, lies in dust. Gallorum mastix iacet hic Henricus in urna Domat omnia virtus. So many virtues are attributed, by all writers, to this heroical King Henry, the renown of England, and glory of Wales, that where to begin, or when to make an end in his deserved praise, I know not: so I will leave him, amongst the many Monarches of this most famous Empire, none more complete, relating only a few rhymes, which in some sort doth particularise his memorable exploits. Add to Robert of Gloucester. Aftur him reigned his son than The v Herry truly a gracious man. Atte his beginning, verament, He stroyd Loliers, and they were brent. Aftur he made religious at Shene Zion, jerusalem, and eke Bedlam. The thurd yer he went truly And got Hartlett in Normandy Atte Egyncourt he had a battle iwis Hamwardys: and there had the pries. He took there the Duc of orleans The Duc of Bourbon, and many of France: And aftur that he won Lane town, Rone, and all Normandy as was to done, Also he won Paris worschypfully; And many more towns with Meaux in Bry. There he took to his Queen Katterin the king dawghtyr sheen He had a Son of hur y bore That is called Herry of Wyndsore: In France he departed goodly thurgh Goddis graze, And was brought into Engelond in short spase Then was his Son Herry of age surly But only viii monyths with odd deyes truly, His Eme john Duc of Bedford as you see Is now Regent of France sickerly. He reigned x yer; in hevyn he hath reward Lith at Westmynstre naught far fro saint Edward. Here lieth Katherine, Katherine the wife of Henry the fifth. Queen of England, wife to the foresaid King Henry the fifth, in a chest or coffin with a loose cover to be seen and handled of any that will much desire it, and that by her own appointment (as he that showeth the Tombs will tell you by tradition) in regard of her disobedience to her husband for being delivered of her Son Henry the sixth at Windsor, the place which he forbade. But the truth is that she being first buried in our Lady's Chapel here in this Church, her corpse were taken up; when as Henry the seventh laid the foundation of that admirable structure his Chapel royal, which have ever since so remained, and never reburied. She was the daughter to Charles the sixth, king of France: she died at Bermondsey in Southwark, the second of january, Ann. Dom. 1437. Her Epitaph. Hic Katherina iacet Francorum filia Regis, Heres & Regni, Carole Sexte, tui. Henrici quinti thalamo bis leta iugali Nam sic vir duplici clarus honore fuit: jure suo Anglorum, Katherine iure triumphans Francorum obtinuit ius, decus imperij. Grata venit letis felix Regina Britannis Perque dies celebrant quatuor ore Deum. Edidit Henricum gemebunda puerpera Regem, Cuius in imperio Francus & Anglus erat. Non sibi sed Regno felici sidere natum; Sed Patri & Matri Religione parem. Post ex Owino Tiddero tertia proles, Nobilis Edmundus te Katherine beat: Septimus Henricus quo non prestantior alter, Filius Edmundi, gemma Britanna fuit. Felix ergo uxor, matter, ter filia felix, Ast Auia hec felix terque quater que fuit. Henry the seventh king of England. Here lieth buried in one of the stateliest Monuments of Europe, both for the Chapel, and for the Sepulchre, the body of Henry the seventh, King of England, the first begotten Son of Edmund, Earl of Richmond, by Margaret, daughter and heir to john Duke of Somerset. This glorious rich Tomb is compassed about with verses, penned by that Poet Laureate (as he styles himself) and Kings Orator, john Skelton: I will take only the shortest of his Epitaphs or Eulogiums, and most to the purpose, Septimus hic situs est Henricus, gloria Regum Cunctorum, ipsius qui tempestate fuerunt, Ingenio atque opibus gestarum & nomine rerum, Accessere quibus nature dona benign: Frontis honos, facies augusta, heroica forma, junctaque ei suanis coniux perpulchra, pudica, Et secunda fuit: felices prole parents, Henricum quibus octawm terra Anglia debes. He deceased at Richmond the 22. of April, 1509. when he had reigned 23. years, and somewhat more than seven months, and lived fifty two years. Whosoever would know further of this king, let him read his History, wherein he is delineated to the life, by the matchless and never enough admired pen of that famous, learned, and eloquent knight, Sir Francis Bacon, not long since deceased, Lord Verulam, and Viscount Saint Alban. Elizabeth the wife of king Hen. the seventh. Here lieth entombed by her Husband Henry the seventh, Elizabeth, the first child legitimate and eldest daughter of king Edward the fourth; to whom she was married the eighteenth of january, 1488. whereby was united the long contending Families of Lancaster and York, and the Roses red and white joined into one, to the great joy of the English Subjects. She was his wife eighteen years and twenty four days, and died in childbed in the Tower of London, the eleventh of February, even the day of her own Nativity, the eighteenth of her Husband's reign, and year of our Salvation, 1503. I have an Epitaph of this good Queen (borne for England's happiness) which I transcribed out of a Manuscript in Sir Robert Cottons Library. Extinctum iacet hic genus a Plantagine ductum, Et Rosa purpureis candida nupta Rosis. Elisabet claris Anglorum Regibus orta, Regina & Patrij gloria rara soli. Edwardi soboles quarti, tibi septime coniux Henrice, heu populi cura benigna tui. Exemplex vite qua nec prestantior altra Moribus, ingenio, nec probitate fuit. Reginam Deus eterno dignetur honore Et Regem hic annos vivere Nestoreos. Margaret Countess of Richmond. Here lieth magnificently entombed, Margaret, Countess of Richmond, and Derby, daughter and only heir to john Duke of Somerset, by Margaret, daughter to the Lord Beauchampe of Powicke, first married to Edmund the son of Owen Tedder, who begat Henry the seventh, King of England, and afterwards to Thomas Stanley, Earl of Derby. Two Colleges, namely, of Christ, and Saint john Baptist, she erected for Students in Cambridge. She instituted also two Divinity Lectures, one at Cambridge, and the other at Oxenford, who, having lived so long to see her Grandchild, Henry the eight, crowned King, died the twelfth of july, 1509. in the first year of his reign. Here is a long Elegy made to her memory by the foresaid Skelton, with this terrible curse to all those that shall tread, spoil, or take it away. Qui lacerate, violatue, rapit presens Epitoma, Hunc laceretque voret cerberus absque mora. Hanc tecum statuas Dominam precor O Sator orbis, Quo regnas rutilans Rex sine fine manens. Here lieth Margaret, Margaret the daughter of King Ed. 4. one of the daughters of King Edward the fourth, by Elizabeth his royal Queen and wife. She died an Infant, the eleventh of December, 1472. Nobilitas & forma, decorque tenella inventus Insimul hic ista mortis sunt condita cista. Vt genus, & nomen, sexum, tempus quoque mortis Noseas; cuncta tibi manifestat margo Sepulchri. Here lieth Elizabeth, Elizab. the daughter of king Hen. 7. the second daughter of King Henry the seventh, by his loving consort and Queen, Elizabeth, who was borne the second day of july, 1492. and died the 14. day of November, 1495. Upon her Tomb this Epitaph. Hic post sata iacet proles regalis in isto Sarcophago, invenis, nobilis Elizabeth, Princeps illustris, Hen. Sept. filia Regis Qui bini regni florida sceptra tenet. Atropos hanc rapuit sevissima nuntia mortis, Sit super in celo vita perhennis ei. Here lieth interred, Anne Queen of England. without any Monument, Anne, the second daughter and coheir to Richard Nevil, the stout Earl of Warwick, and Salisbury: who was first married to Edward Prince of Wales, the son and only child of king Henry the sixth, and after remarried to Richard Duke of Gloucester (who at the battle of Tewxbury had stabbed her husband into the heart with his dagger) afterwards by usurpation king of England, surnamed Crookbacke. She died (not without suspicion of being poisoned) the 16. of March, 1485. Here lieth entombed Edmund, Edmund Earl of Lancaster. the second son of King Henry the third, Earl of Lancaster, Leicester, and Derby, surnamed Crouchbacke, of his bowing in his back, because he is never found (saith Vincent in his discovery of Brooks errors, title Lancaster) with any other addition, and indeed with no other Epithet then Gibbosus; which signifieth crooked, crump-shouldred, or Camell-backed. But others say he was so denominated of wearing the sign of the Cross (anciently called a Crouch) upon his back, which was usually worn of such as vowed voyages to jerusalem; as he had done. Further confirming their opinions from the name of Crouched-Friers, that wore a Cross upon their garments. And Io. Harding speaking of him and his elder Brother Edward, afterwards king of England, and of their voyage to jerusalem, hath these verses to the same effect. Harding c. 147. His brother Edward and he associate To jerusalem, their voyage them avowed. Two seemly Princes, together adjoinate, In all the world was none them like allowed, So large and fair they were, each man he bowed. Edward above his men was largely seen By his shoulders more high and made full clean. Edmond next him the comeliest Prince alive, Not croak backed, ne in no wise disfigured. As some men wrote, the right line to deprive, Through great falsehood made it to be scriptured: For cause it should alway be refigured, And mentioned well, his issue to prevail Unto the Crown, by such a governaile. I cannot let pass, although I do somewhat digress, the cunning sleights and devices the Popes of Rome used in these times, to impoverish this kingdom, and enrich their own coffers. Mat. Paris. First they combine and confederate with the king to the utter undoing of all his loyal Subjects. And now Pope Alexander the fourth puts a trick upon the king himself (a Prince more pious than prudent) which exhausts his Treasure, Pageant of Popes. and leaves him for a laughingstock to all other Nations. This Pope, forsooth, invested this Edmund his son, into the kingdoms of Sicilia and Apulia (Conradus king thereof still living) by a ring; conditionally, that he should sustain the charges, and maintain the wars that should happen thereupon. In which regard he sucked a mass of money from our credulous king Henry, who had so deeply swallowed the gudgeon that (his heart being over-ioyed (saith Matthew Paris) and raised even to the height of exultation) he swore by Saint Edward, to make a present voyage to Apulia, and take possession of these dominions. But at length this counterfeit ring upon the touch was discovered, and the good king knew himself deluded, his Exchequer emptied, and this Titulary-king his son Edmund abused. Thus writes Matthew Paris, the Monk of S. Alban, who lived in those days; and deciphers the Legerdemain, and juggling devices of the Bishops of Rome to get money. This Edmund was Lord Steward of this kingdom, and Lieutenant of Gascoigne. Who being sent into Aquitaine with an army, where he performed notable service, died at Bayon, in the year 1296. And within two months after his death, his body was honourably transported into England. Aueline Countess of Lancaster. Here lieth also entombed his first wife Aveline, daughter and heir of William de Fortibus, Earl of Albamarle, by whom he had no issue: who died the year 1269. Here lieth buried in a most magnificent Tomb, befitting the greatness of his birth, William de Valence Earl of Penbroke. and the worthiness of his Offspring, William de valence, Earl of Penbroke, (so surnamed of Valencia the place of his birth) son of Hugh le Brun, Earl of the Marches of Aquitaine, and half brother by the mother's side, Stow Annal. to King Henry the third. This William (saith Stow) was slain at Bayon by the French, in the year 1296. and with him, Edmund Earl of Lancaster, of whom I lastly spoke, if we may believe these verses of Harding. But earl Edmond, the king's brother dear, With twenty and six banners proud and stout, The fifth day of june was accounted clear, Harding ca ●56 Of Christ his date a thousand year all out, Fourscore and sixteen, without doubt. At Bayon fought, with the French men certain, Where he in the field that day like a knight was slain. So was Sir William Valence earl of Penbroke than, Sir john Richmond, and many other Baron: Sir john saint john, right a full manly man: Thenglishe host felly there was boar down, By a bushment, laid by colution, That broke on them, sore fight in the field, Out of a wode, in which that day were beld. About the verge or side of his monument, these verses are inlaid with brass. Anglia tota doles, moritur quia regia proles, Qua florere soles, quem continet infima moles, Guilielmus nomen insigne Valentia prebet, Celsum cognomen, nam tale dari sibi debet. Qui valuit validus, vincens virtute valour. E● placuit placidus, sensus morumque vigore, Dapsilis, et habilis, immotus, prelia sectans, Vtilis, ac humilis, devotus, premia spectans. Milleque trecentis cum quatuor inde retentis, In Maij mense, hunc mors proprio ferit ense. Quique legis hec repete quam sit via plena timore, Meque lege, te moriturum & inscius hore. O clemens christ celoes intret precor iste, Nil videat triste, quia preculit omnibus hisce. Here lieth entombed the body of Simon Langham, Simon Langham Archbishop of Canterbury. who was first a Monk of this Abbey, than Prior, and lastly Abbot, thence elected Bishop of London; from thence, before his consecration to London, advanced to the Bishopric of Ely, and from that place removed to Canterbury: he held diverse livings in commendam, as the Archdeaconry and Treasureship of Wells, with others. He was both Treasurer and Chancellor of England at several times: It is scarce credible (saith Godwin now Bishop of Hereford in his catalogue de presulibus Anglie) that is reported of his wonderful bounty and liberality to this monastery. When he was first made Abbot, he bestowed all that he had gathered together, being Monk and Prior, in paying the debt of the house, which was to the value of two thousand and two hundred marks; and discharged diverse other sums of money also, which particular Monks did owe: he purchased good land which he gave unto them. When he went out of England, he left them books to the value of 830 pound, and Copes, Vestments, and other ornaments for the Church, worth 437. pound. At his death, he bequeathed unto them, all his plate, prised at 2700. pound, and all his debts any where due, which amounted unto 3954. pound, thirteen shillings and four pence. He also sent unto this Abbey, the sum of one thousand marks, to buy forty marks a year land, to increase the portion of four Monks, that daily should say Mass for the souls of himself, and his Parents. The money that he bestowed upon this Abbey one way or other, is reckoned by a Monk of the same, to be no less than 10800. pound; who thereupon compiled this Distich. Res es de Langham tua Simon sunt data quondam, Octingentena librarum millia dena. But men of eminent place and authority, cannot have their due praise of all sorts of people; nay rather in requital of their best actions, they shall reap nothing but opprobrious language: for upon his translation from Ely to Canterbury, these two railing, rhyming Hexameters were made to his disgrace. Letentur celi quia Simon transit ab Ely Cuius in adventum flent in Kent millia centum. The Isle of Ely laughed, when Simon from her went: But hundred thousands wept at's coming into Kent. He sat Archbishop of Canterbury only two years, for being made Cardinal of Saint Sixtus by Pope Vrban the fifth, he left his archbishopric, and went to Auinion, where shortly after he was made Bishop Cardinal of Preneste, by Gregory the eleventh; where he lived in great estimation about eight years, and died of a palsy, wherewith he was suddenly taken, as he sat at dinner, july 22. 1376. he was buried first in the Church of the Carthusians, which he himself had founded in the City of Auinion; but after three years, his bones (by his appointment while he lived) were taken up and buried here a second time, under a goodly tomb of Alabaster, upon which this Epitaph was sometime engraven. Simon de Langham sub petris hijs tumulatus, Istius Ecclesie Monachus fuerat, Prior, Abbas; Sede vacant fuit electus Londoniensis Presul, et insignis Ely, sed postea primas Totius Regni, magnus Regisque minister: Nam Thesaurarius, et Cancellarius eius, Ac Cardinalis in Roma Presbyter is●e. Postque Prenestinus est factus Episcopus, atque Nuncius ex parte Pape transmittitur ist●c. Orb dolente Pater, quem nunc revocare nequimus Magdalene festo, milleno septuageno, Et ter centeno sexto Christi ruit anno. Hunc Deus absoluat de cunctis que male gessit, Et meritis Matris sibi celica gaudia donet. Here lieth Robert Waldby, Robert Waldby Archbishop of York. who being a young man, followed Edward the black Prince into France, where he continued long a Student, and profited so much, as no man in the University where he lived, might compared with him for all kind of learning: he was a good linguist, very well seen in Philosophy, both natural and moral, in Physic, and the canon Law; very eloquent, an excellent Preacher; and esteemed so profound a Divine, as he was thought meet to be the professor of Divinity, or Doctor of the Chair in the University of Tholouze. For these his good gifts he was much favoured of the black Prince, then of King Richard his son, who preferred him to the Bishopric of the Isle of Man, from that preferment he was translated to the archbishopric of Dublin in Ireland, thence to Chichester, and lastly to the archbishopric of York; where he sat not fully three years, but died the 29. of May, 1397. His Epitaph is quite worn or torn away from his monument, yet I found it in a Manuscript, in Sir Robert Cottons Library. Hic fuit expertus in quovis iure Robertus De Walbye dictus, Ex Mss. in bib Cot. nunc est sub marmore strictus. Sacre Scripture Doctor fuit et geniture Ingenuus medicus, & Plebis semper amicus Presul * Sodorensis B. of Man. Adurensis post hec Archas Dublinensis. Hinc Cicestrensis, tandem Primus Eborensis. Quarto Kalend junij migravit cur sibus anni Milleni ter C. septem nonies: quoque deni. Vos precor orate, quod sint sibi dona beat Cum sanctis vite; requiescat et hic sine lite. In an old rhyming Manuscript of the succession of the Archbishops of York, I find thus much of this man. Tunc Robertus ordinis Fratris Augustini, Ascendit in Cathedram Primatis Paulini, In bib. Cot. Lingua scientificus s●rmonis Latini. Anno primo proximat. vite sue fini. De carnis ergastulo Presul evocatur Gleba sui corporu Westminstre humatur. john Waltham Bishop of Salisbury. Ca●al. of Bishops. Here under a marble stone in the Chapel royal, lieth the body of john Waltham, Lord Bishop of Salisbury, who had been master of the Rolls, keeper of the privy Seal, and Treasurer of England: in which office he continued till his death, which happened in the year 1395. having sat bishop 7 years, and executed the Treasurorship four years. King Richard the second loved him entirely, and greatly bewailed his death. In token whereof he commanded that he should be buried here among the Kings: In vita R 2. hoc anno, saith Walshingham, viz. in the year 1395. obijt johannes de Waltham Episcopus Sarum & regni Thesaurarius qui tantum Regi complacuerit, ut etiam (multis licet murmurantibus) apud monasterium inter Reges meruit sepulturam. He lieth in the pavement under a flat marble stone, just beside King Edward the first, upon which, his Epitaph was inlaid in brass, with his portraiture in Episcopal robes; now defaced, and almost quite perished. Richard Wendover Bishop of R●ch●ster. Here lieth another Bishop here buried (but not in so conspicuous and princely a place of the Church, as doth Waltham) who was likewise by the King's special commandment, here inhumed, for that he was accounted a very holy and virtuous man; namely, one Richard de Wendover, Parson of Bromley, and Bishop of Rochester, who died in the year, 1250. and in the reign of King Henry the third. Sir Humphrey Bourchier, Lord Cromwell. Here lieth interred, Sir Humphrey Bourchier, Lord Cromwell, the son of Henry Bourchier, Earl of Essex, by Isabella, daughter of Richard, Earl of Cambridge, and sister to Richard, Duke of York; who in aid of his kinsman King Edward the fourth, was slain at Barnet field upon Easter day, 1471. Sir Humphrey Bourchier. And here lieth interred another Humfrey Bourchier, who was the son and heir of john Bourchier, Lord berner's, who was also slain at the same battle; to whose memories this Epitaph yet remains: Hic Pugil ecce iacens Bernet fera bella cupiscens, Certat ut Eacides, fit saucius undique miles, Vt cecidit vulnus, Mars porrigit arma cruore, Sparsim tincta rubent, dolour en lachrimabilis hora, Lumine nempe cadit, quo christus morte resurgit. Bourchier Humfridus, clara propagine dictus. Edwardi Regis qui tertius est vocitatus, john. Domini Berners proles, et paruulus heres, Quartus et Edwardus belli tenet ecce triumphum, Quo perit Humfridus, ut Regis vernula verus * Cup. bearer. Cyronomon mense sponse Regis fuit iste, Elisabeth, sibi sic sua virtus crescit honore. Armis conspicuus quondam, charusque Britannis Hic fuit: Vt celis vivat deposcite votis. Tho. Milling Bishop of Hereford. Here lieth entombed in a slight monument in the wall, Thomas Mylling, sometime Abbot of this Monastery; from whence he was preferred to the Bishopric of Hereford, by King Edward the fourth, under whom he was of the privy Council, and was Godfather to Prince Edward his eldest Son; He was a Monk of this house, being but a youth; and then went to Oxford, where he studied until he proceeded Doctor of Divinity; in which time he attained good knowledge in the Greek tongue; which in those days was geason, saith the reverend Author of the Bishop's Catalogue. Godwin. He died in the year 1493. Here in an obscure place of this Church, Hugolin Chamberlain to S. Edward, king and Confessor. lieth the body of Hugoline, Chamberlain to King Edward the Confessor, of whom this Story is written in the life of the said Edward. King Edward one afternoon lying in his bed with his curtains round about him drawn, a poor pilfering Courtier came into his Chamber, where finding the King's Casket open, which Hugolin had forgotten to shut, he took out so much money as he could well carry, and went away; but insatiable desire brought him again the second and third time for such a ready prey: until the King (who lay still all this while, and would not seem to see) began to speak to him, and bade him speedily be packing, for he was well if he could see; for if Hugoline came and took him there, he were not only like to lose all that he had gotten, but also to stretch an halter. The fellow was no sooner gone, but Hugoline came in, and finding the Casket open, and much money taken away, was greatly moved: But the king willed him not to be grieved. For (said he) he that hath it, hath more need of it then we have. This Hugolin (saith M. Camden) was buried in the old Chapter house of this Church. Remains. Upon whose Monument these silly verses were engraven. Qui ruis iniuste capit hic Hugoline locus te Laude pia clares quia martyribus niece clare●. For learning, in this king's days, was so low ebbed in England, that between Thames and Trent, there was scant one found which could understand Latin. This passage of the aforesaid pilfery is delineated, and wrought in the Hangings about the Choir, with the Portraitures of the king, Hugolin, and the Thief: under which are these verses. Ecce nimis parca furis manus exit ab archa; Celat opus furis, pietas, non regula iuris. Tolle quod habes et fuge. Hic iacet Willelmus Bedel Ar. et Cecilia ux. eius filia & heres Domini Roberti Grene militis, William Bedell and Cicely his wife. ac etiam heres domini johannis Cley militis, qui quidem Willelmus, fuit Thesaurarius Hospitij excellentissimi Principis Margarete nuper Comitisse Richmondie, & Derby, matris Regis Henrici septimi, nec non Thesaurarius Hospitij reverendissimi Patris domini, & huius regni Cancellarij, titulo Sancte Cecilie trans Tiberim sacro sancte Romane Ecclesie Presbyteri Cardinalis ordinati. Qui quidem Willelmus ob. 3. julij 1518. Here is an Epitaph cut in Brass upon a marble stone, now almost worn out, Rob. Haule. which was made to the memory of one Robert Haule Esquire, murdered in this Church; the manner whereof our Chronicles do thus briefly relate. In the battle of Nazers in Spain, this Robert Haule, or Hawley, and john Schakell Esquires, took the Earl of Dene prisoner, who delivered unto them his son and heir, as a pledge for assurance of performances. Not long after this, their Hostage was demanded by john Duke of Lancaster, in the King's name, whom they denied to deliver, for which they were clapped in the Tower; from whence escaping, here they took Sanctuary; to whom Sir Ralph Ferreis, and Sir Alan Buxhull, with fifty armed men, were secretly sent to do this mischief; who finding them at high Mass; first drew Schakell by a wile, out of the privilege of the Church, then offering to lay hands on Hawley; he manfully resisting, with his short sword made them all fly off. But in the end he was slain in the Chancel, commending himself, 〈◊〉 vit. R. 2 in his last words, to God, the revenger of such injuries, and to the liberty of our holy mother the Church. With him was slain a servant of his, thrust into the back with a javelin; and a Monk who entreated for him in respect of the holiness of the place. This wicked act was perpetrated; the 11. of August, 1378. the second of Richard the second. These words following now only remaining upon his Monument. Me dolus ira furor multorum; militis atque ................... ..... in hoc gladijs celebri pietatis asylo, Dum levita Dei sermonis legit ad aram: Proh dolor ipse meo Monachorum sanguine vultus Aspersi moriens, chorus est mihi testis in evum. Et me nunc retinet sacer is locus Haule Robertum Hic quia pestiferos male sensi primitus enses. .................. Tho. Ruthall Bishop of Durham. Hic iacet Thomas Ruthal Episcopus Dunelmensis, & Regis Henrici septimi Secretarius, qui obijt 1524. To this short Inscription, Godwin in his Catalogue addeth a long story of the life and death of this Bishop. Who was borne in Cicester (saith he) in the County of Gloucester, and brought up in Cambridge, where he proceeded Doctor of Law. He was preferred to the Bishopric of Durham by King Henry the seventh; after whose death he was made one of the privy Council unto the young King, Henry the eight, who esteemed greatly of him, for his wisdom and learning; and employed him often in ambassages, and other businesses of importance. Amongst the rest it pleased the king one time, to require him to set down his judgement in writing concerning the estate of his kingdom in general, and particularly to inform him in certain things by him specified. This discourse the Bishop writ very carefully, and caused it to be bound in Velime gilt, and otherwise adorned in the best manner. Now you shall understand, that it chanced himself about the same time, to set down a note of his own private estate, which, in goods and ready money, amounted to the sum of one hundred thousand pounds. This account was written in a paper book of the same fashion and binding that the other was, which was provided for the king. Whereby it happened that the king sending Cardinal Wolsey for the other draught, which he had so long before required of him; the Bishop mistaking, delivered that which contained an estimate of his own infinite Treasure. This the Cardinal soon espying, and willing to do the Bishop a displeasure, delivered it as he had received it unto the King, showing withal, how the Bishop had very happily mistaken himself; for now (quoth he) you see where you may at any time command a great mass of money, if you need it. As soon as the Bishop understood his error, the conceit thereof touched him so near, that within a short spa●● after he died, at his house here in the Strand. His intention was to have repaired the Church of Cicester, to have built Bridges, as he had begun that over the River of Tyne, and to have done many other deeds of charity, if he had not been prevented by death. Here lieth the body of Sir William Trussell knight, Sir William Trussell knight. and speaker of that Parliament, wherein Edward the second, king of England, resigned his Diad●me, and all ensigns of Majesty, to Edward his eldest Son: This Trussell (saith an ancient Author) was a judge, Tho. dela More. who could fit the house with quirks of Law, to colour so lawless and treasonable an act, as the deposing of a lawful king. And thereupon was chosen in the behalf of the whole Realm, to renounce all homage and obedience to the Lord Edward of Carnarvan, Lib. 7. cap. 43. his Sovereign Lord and King. The form of which renunciation was by him the said Trussell pronounced at Kenelworth Castle the 20. of january, 1326. in these disgraceful words which you may find in Polychronicon. I William Trussel, in the name of all men of the land of Engelond, and of the Parliament Prolocutor; resign to the Edward the homage that was made to the somtym, and from this tim forward now following, I defy the, and privy the of all royal Powyr, and shall never be tendant to the as for King after this tyme. The time of this Trussels death I cannot learn. Here lieth interred before the Communion Table, Rich. de Ware Abbot. the body of Richard de Ware, or Warren, Abbot of this Monastery, and sometime Lord Treasurer of England. Who going to Rome for his consecration, brought from thence certain workmen, and rich Porphery stones; whereof and by whom he made that curious singular rare pavement before the high Altar: Francis Thin. in Catal. Thes. Aug. in which are circulary written in letters of brass these ten verses following, containing a discourse (as one saith) of the world's continuance. Si Lector posita prudenter cuncta revoluat Hic finem primi mobilis inveniet. Sepes trina, canes, & equos, homines, super addas Ceruos & coruos, aquilas, immania cete, Mundi quodque sequens pereuntis triplicat annos, Sphericus Archetypum globus hic monstrat Macrocosmum. Christi milleno bis centeno duodeno; Cum sexageno subductis quatuor anno, Tertius Henricus Rex, urbs, Odoricus & Abbas Hos compegere Porphyreos lapides. With these stones and workmen, he did also frame the Shrine of Edward the Confessor, with these verses. Anno milleno Domini cum septuageno, Et bis centeno, cum completo quasi deno, Hoc opus est factum quod Petrus duxit in actum Romanus civis. Homo causam noscere si vis Rex fuit Henricus Sancti presentis amicus. This Abbot died the second day of December, 1283. after he had governed this Monastery, three and twenty years and more. Upon whose grave-stone this brief Epitaph is engraven. Abbas Richardus de Wara qui requiescit, Hic portat lapides, quos hic portavit ab urbe. Walter Wenlocke Abbot. After the death of Richard de Ware, Walter Wenlocke was chosen Abbot, and preferred to the honour of Lord Treasurer by King Edward the first. He was Abbot six and twenty years, The Abbots of this house were Barons of the Parliament. lacking six days: died upon Christmas day at night, in the year 1307. And lieth buried under a marble stone: whereupon this Epitaph, to his high commendation, is inlaid in brass. Abbas Walterus iacet hic sub marmore tectus, Non fuit austerus, sed mitis, famine rectus. Ric. de Barking Abbot. Here lieth Richard de Barking, Abbot of this Monastery, who was an especial Counsellor to King Henry the third, chief Baron of the Exchequer, and Treasurer of England. Who having been Abbot 24. years, died the 23. day of November, 1246. He was first buried in our Lady's Chapel in a Tomb of marble, which was pulled down by Friar Combe, a Sacrist of this house. Who laid a fair plain marble stone over him, with this Epitaph thus inscribed. Richardus Barking Prior est post inclytus Abbas, Henrici Regis prudens fuit ille minister; Huius erat prima laus, Insula rebus opima, Altera laus eque Thorp, census, ocham, decimeque, Tertia Mortone castrum simili ratione Et Regis quarta de multis commoda charta. Clementis festo mundo migravit ab isto. M. Domini C. bis: xl. sextoque sub anno. Cui detur venia parte pia virgo Maria. Gervaise de Bloys Abbot. Here in the Cloister under a flat stone of black marble, lie the remains of Gervais de Bloys, so called of the place or Earldom which his father possessed in France: who was Stephen Earl of Bloys and Champagne; afterwards king of England. He was his base son, begotten of one Dameta a gentlewoman of Normandy. He was brought into England by his father the fifth year of his reign; and in the same year made Abbot of this place. In which government he continued for the space of twenty years. He deceased the 26. of August, 1160. His Epitaph. De Regem genere Pater hic Gervasius ecce Monstrat de functus, mors rapit omne genus. Even father Gervase borne of king's race; Lo is dead, thus death all sorts doth deface. Here lieth the body of Nicholas Litlington, Abbot of this house, who in the time of his government, which was for the space of 〈◊〉, years, built the Abbot's hall, and the fair room now called jerusalem, the West and South part of the Cloister, and a Granary, now the Scholars long Bedchamber, with the Tower adjoining, as also the Water-Mill, and many other Edefices. He died Anno 1386. I found his Epitaph in a nameless Manuscript, in that never enough admired Library of Sir Robert Cotton. Hacce Domo Ductor Nicholaus erat quoque structor Et sibi tunc sedem celo construxit & edem. M. semel, C ter erat annus, sex octuagenus Cum perit iste Abbas divino flamine plenus. Quinta dies, fit ei requies, in fine Novembris. Detur ei, pietate Dei, merces requici. Amen. Here lieth in the Cloister, one Vitalis, Vitalis Abbot. Abbot of this Covent, preferred thereunto by William the Conqueror; in the 16. of whose reign, 1082. he died: upon whose Tomb this Epitaph was engraven, alluding to his name, like as for Laurence his successor. Qui nomen traxit a vita, morte vocante Abbas Vitalis transijt, hicque iacet. Here lieth the body of one Laurence, Laurence the first minerd Abbot of West. Abbot of this Monastery, who obtained of Alexander the third (that ambitious Bishop of Rome) to himself and his successors, the use of the Mitre, the Ring, and the Gloves; the Pastoral Staff, before his time, being their only comportment, as by the differing portraitures of the Abbots upon their Tombestones may be easily discerned. He died, Anno 1176. to whose memory, this allusive Epitaph was made. Clauditur hoc tumulo vir quondam clarus in orbe Quo preclarus erat hic locus, est et erit. Pro meritis vite dedit illi laurea nomen Detur ei vite laurea pro meritis. Here lieth Gislebert Crispin, Gislebert Crispin Abbot. Abbot, who flourished in the reign of King Henry the first, and died in the year of our redemption, 1114. His picture is upon the grave stone, inlaid with brass, with his Pastoral staff only, without Mitre, Ring, or other ornament, with these verses. Hic Pater insignis, genus altum, virgo, senex que Gisleberte iaces, lux, via, duxque tuis. Mitis eras, iustus, prudens, fortis, moderatus, Doctus quadrivio, nec minus in trivio. Sic tamen ornatus nece sexta luce Decembris Spiramen celo, reddis & ossa solo. Here lieth interred, the body of Edmund Kirton, Edmund Kirton Abbot. Abbot of this Monastery, Doctor of Divinity, and a profound learned man: he adorned Saint Andrew's Chapel, wherein he lieth buried, with the arms of many of the English Nobility. These verses are inscribed upon his monument. Pastor pacisicus, subiectis vir moderatus, Hac sub marmorea Petra requiescit humatus, Edmundus Kirton, hic quondam qui fuit Abbas, Bis denis annis cum binis connumerandus; Sacre Scripture doctor probus, immoprobatus, Illustri stirpe de Cobildic generatus: Coram Martino papa proposuit iste, Ob quod multiplices laudes habuit & honores▪ Qui obijt tertio die mensis Octobris An. Dom. M. cccc.lx.vi. Eleison Kyry curando morbida mundi. john Islip, Abbot. john Islip, Abbot of Westminster, a man of great authority and special trust with King Henry the seventh, lieth here interred. He built the Deans house as now it is, and repaired many other places in this Monastery: in the windows whereof (saith Cambden) he had a quadruple device for his single name; Remains. for somewhere he set up an eye with a slip of a tree: in another place, one slipping boughs in a tree; in other places, an I with the said slip; In bib Cot. and in some places, one slipping from a tree with the word, Islip. I cannot learn the time of his death by his Tomb, yet I find in a Manuscript, (wherein are diverse funeral collections, and other Inscriptions of this Abbey, which were gathered about the time of the dissolution) that he died the second of january, in the year 1510. the second of Henry the eight; and also that in the Chapel of Saint Erasmus, where he lieth buried, upon the wall over his Tomb, was the picture of our Saviour Christ, hanging on the Cross, seeming to call and to give good council unto mankind in these rhymes. Aspice serue Dei sic me posuere judei. Aspice deuote quoniam sic pendeo pro te. Aspice mortalis pro te datur Hostia talis. Introitum vite reddo tibi, red mihi te. In cruse sum prote, qui peccas desine pro me, Desine, do veniam, dic culpam, corrige vitam. Under this Crucifix, was the picture of the Abbot, holding up his hands, and praying thus in old Poetry. En cruce qui pendis Islip miserere johannis Sanguine perfuso reparasti quem pretioso. Ralph Selby. Here lieth entombed, the body of Ralph Selby, descended from the ancient family of the Selbies of Billesdun in the County of Northumberland, a Monk of this fraternity, a learned Doctor in the civil and canon laws, and one exceedingly beloved and favoured of King Henry the fourth, and Henry the fifth; in the eight year of whose reign, he departed this world, Anno 1420. as by this Epitaph appeareth. Ecce Radulphus ita Selby iacet hic Cenobita, Doctor per merita prepotens lege perita, Legibus ornatus, a regibus et veneratus, Ordo eiusque status per cum fit conciliatus. M. C quater, x bis. post partum virginis iste Michaelis festo tibi spiravit bone Christ. Not far from this Selby, Io Windsor. lieth buried under a marble stone, the body of john Windsor, one of the noble family of the Windsores, sometime residing at Stanwell in this County; a great commander in the wars of Ireland, under Richard the second, and in the battle of Shrewesbury, under King Henry the fourth: who died in the second year of King Henry the fifth upon Eester Eve, the seventh of April, 1414. as this Epitaph showeth. Est bis septenus M. Christi C quater. annus, Vespera Paschalis dum septima lux fit Aprilis Transijt a mundo Io. Windsor nomine notus, Corde gemens mundo, confessus, crimine lotus: Fecerat heredem Gulielmus awnculus istum. Miles et Armigerum dignus de nomine dignum. Dum iwenilis erat bello multos perimebat: Postea penituit & eorum vulnera flevit. Recumbens obijt, hic nunc in carcere quiescit: Vivat in eternum Spiritus ante Deum. But now I will conclude the funeral Monuments of this Abbey, Geffrey Chaucer with the death and burial of our most learned English Poet, Geoffrey Chaucer, whose life is written at large, by Thomas Speght, (who by old copies, reform his works) which the Reader may see a little before the beginning of his books. He departed out of this world, the 25. day of October, in the year of our Lord, 1400. afters had lived 72. years. Thus writeth Leland: Chaucer lived till he was an old man, and found old age to be grievous: and whilst he followed his causes at London, he died, and was buried at Westminster. The old verses which were written on his grave at the first were these. Galfridus Chaucer vates et fama Poesis Materne, hac sacra sum tumulatus humo. Thomas Occleve or Okelefe, of the office of the privy Seal, sometime Chaucer's scholar; for the love he bore to the said Geffray his master, caused his picture to be truly drawn in his book De Regimine Principis; dedicated to Henry the fifth; according to which, that his picture drawn upon his Monument, was made, as also the Monument itself, at the cost and charges of Nicholas Brigham gentleman, Anno 1555. who buried his daughter Rachel, a child of four years of age, near to the Tomb of this old Poet, the 21. of june 1557. such was his love to the Muses. But to return again to Chaucer's picture, to which these verses were added by the said Occleve. Although his life be quaint, the resemblance Of him that hath in me so fresh liveliness, That to put other men in remembrance Of his Person, I have here the likeness Do make, to the end in soothfastness, That they that of him have lost thought and mind, By this Peniture may again him find. The Inscriptions upon his Tomb at this day are after this manner. Qui fuit Anglorum vates ter maximus olim Galfridus Chaucer conditur hoc tumulo Annum si quaeras Domini si tempora mortis Ecce notae subsunt quae tibi cuncta notant: 25 Octobris, 1400. Aerumnarum requies mors: N Brigham hos fecit musarum nomine sumptus▪ About the ledge of the Tomb, these verses were written. Si rogitas quis era●, forsan te fama docebit Quod si Fama negat, mundi quia gloria transit Haec monumenta lege. Now it shall not be amiss to add to these Epitaphs, the judgements and reports of some learned men of this worthy and famous Poet: and first of all let us hear his Scholar Occleve; Vir tam bonis liter●s, quam generis prosapia clarus: these are his lines of him in his foresaid book de regimine Principis. Alas my worthy master honourable, This lands very treasure, and richesses, Death by thy death hath harm irreperable Unto us done: her vengeable duresse, Despoiled hath this land of the sweetness Of Rhetorige: for unto Tullius, Was never man so like among us. Also who was heir in Philosophy To Aristotle, in our tongue but thee? The steps of Virgil in Poese Thou suedst eken men know well enough: What cumber world that thee my master slough Would I slain were. john Lidgate, a Monk of Bury, in his Prologue of Bocchas, of the fall of Princes by him translated, saith thus in his commendation. My Master Chaucer, with his fresh Comedies, Is dead alas chief Poet of Britain, That whilom made full piteous Tragedies, The fall also of Princes he did complain, As he that was of making sovereign; Whom all this Land should of right prefer Sith of our Language he was the load-sterre. That excellent and learned Scottish Poet, Gawyne Dowglas, Bishop of Dunkeld, in the Preface of Virgil's Aeneados, turned into Scottish verse, doth thus speak of Chaucer. Venerable Chaucer, principal Poet without peer, Heavenly trumpet, orloge, and regulere, In eloquence, balm, conduct, and dial Milky fountain, clear strand, and rose rial. Of fresh indite through Albione Island brayed In his legend of noble Ladies said. Spenser in his Fairy Queen calleth his writings, The works of heavenly wit. Concluding his commendation in this manner. Dan Chaucer, Well of English, undefiled, On Fame's eternal beadrole worthy to be filled. Sir Philip Sidney likewise, and M. Camden speak much in the deserved praise of this worthy Poet, whom I leave to his eternal rest. Under the Clock in the Church, I have read this Inscription. Dic mihi quid prodest horas numerare fugaces Cum cessant perdas quod numerare libet. This Church hath had great privilege of Sanctuary within the precinct thereof (as Stow saith in his Survey of London) to wit, the Church, Churchyard, Close, and all that which is still called the Sanctuary. Which Privilege was first granted by Sebert king of the East Saxons, the first Founder thereof. Since increased by Edgar King of the West Saxons, renewed and confirmed by King Edward the Confessor, as appeareth by this his Charter following. Edward by the grace of God, king of Englishmen: I make it to be known to all generations of the world after me, that by especial commandment of our holy Father Pope Leo; I have renewed, and honoured the holy Church of the blessed Apostle, Saint Peter of Westminster; and I order and establish for ever, that what person, of what condition or estate soever he be, from whencesoever he come, or for what offence or cause it be, either for his refuge into the said holy place, he be assured of his life, liberty, and limbs. And over this I forbid (under the pain of everlasting damnation) that no Minister of mine, or of my Successors, intermeddle them with any the goods, lands, or possessions of the said persons taking the said Sanctuary: for I have taken their goods and livelihood into my special protection; and therefore I grant to every each of them (in as much as my terrestrial power may suffice) all manner freedom of joyous liberty, and whosoever presumes, or doth contrary to this my Grant: I will he lose his name, worship, dignity and power. And that with the great traitor judas, that betrayed our Saviour, he be in the everlasting fire of hell. And I will, and ordain, that this my grant endure as long, as there remaineth in England, either love, or dread of Christian name. King Edward the third built in the little Sanctuary, a Clochard of stone and timber, and placed therein three bells, for the use of Saint Stephen's Chapel. About the biggest Bell was engraven, or cast in the mettle, these words: King Edward made me thirty thousand weight and three: Take me down and weigh me, and more you shall find me. But these Bells being to be taken down, in the reign of King Henry the eight, one writes underneath with a coal: But Henry the eight, will bait me of my weight. In the Steeple of the great Church in the City of Roan in Normandy is one great Bell with the like Inscription. je suis George de Ambios Qui trente cinque mille pois Mes lui qui me pesera Trente six mill me trovera. I am George of Ambois, Thirty five thousand in pois: But he that shall weigh me, Thirty six thousand shall find me. One lately having taken view of the Sepulchers of so many Kings, Nobles, and other eminent persons interred in this Abbey of Westminster, made these rhymes following, which he called A Memento for Mortality. Mortality behold and fear, What a change of flesh is here? Think how many royal bones, Sleep within this heap of stones, Hence removed from beds of ease, Dainty ●are, and what might please, Fretted roofs, and costly shows, To a roof that flats the nose: Which proclaims all flesh is grass, How the world's fair Glories pass: That there is no trust in Health, In youth, in age, in Greatness, wealth: For if such could have reprieved, Those had been immortal lived. Know from this the worlds a snare, How that greatness is but care, How all pleasures are but pain, And how short they do remain: For here they lie had Realms and Lands, That now want strength to stir their hands; Where from their pulpits seeled with dust They preach. In Greatness is no trust. Here's an Acre sown indeed, With the richest royal seed, That the earth did ere suck in, Since the first man died for sin, Here the bones of birth have cried, Though Gods they were, as men have died. Here are sands (ignoble things) Dropped from the ruined sides of Kings; With whom the poor man's earth being shown, The difference is not easily known. Her's a world of pomp and state, Forgotten, dead, disconsolate; Think then this scythe that mows down kings, Exempts no meaner mortal things. Then bid the wanton Lady tread, Amid these mazes of the dead. And these truly understood, More shall cool and quench the blood, Then her many sports a day, And her nightly wanton play. Bid her paint till day of doom, To this favour she must come. Bid the Merchant gather wealth, The usurer exact by stealth. The proud man beat it from his thought, Yet to this shape all must be brought. Chapel of our Lady in the Piew. Near unto the Chapel of Saint Stephen, was sometime a smaller Chapel, called our Lady of the Piew: but by whom first founded I cannot find. To this Lady great offerings were used to be made. Richard the second after the overthrow of Wat. Tilar (as I have read) and other the Rebels, Ex Mss. in bib. Cot. in the fourth of his reign, went to Westminster, and there giving thanks to God for his victory, made his offering in this Chapel. By the negligence of a Scholar, forgetting to put forth the Lights of this Chapel, the Image of our Lady, richly decked with jewels, precious stones, Pearls, and Rings, more than any jeweller (saith he) could judge the price, was, with all the apparel and ornaments belonging thereunto, as also the Chapel itself, burnt to ashes. It was again re-edified by Antony Wid●uile, Earl Rivers, Lord Scales, Uncle and Governor to the Prince of Wales, that should have been King Edward the fifth Who was unjustly beheaded at Pomfret by the procurement of Richard Crookbacke, Duke of Gloucester, than Lord Protector, the 13. of june, 1483. Saint Margaret in Westminster. Adjoining on the North side of the Abbey, standeth Saint Margaret's, the Parish Church of the City of Westminster, re-edified for the most in the reign of King Edward the fourth, especially the South Isle, from the piety of the Lady mary Billing, and her second husband Sir Thomas Billing, chief justice of England in that King's time. Whose Monument with that, to the memory of her first husband William Cotton, Esquire, I have here expressed. Here lieth Dame Mary Bylling, late wife to Sir Thomas Bylling, Knight, chief justice of England, and to William Coton, and Thomas Lacie: which Mary died the 14. day of March, in the year of our Lord God, 1499. Blessed Lady, etc. have mercy, etc. Antony's Marry gratia plena on me have mercy on me have mercy Ecce ancila dom Fiat 〈…〉 secund: verbu tuum 〈…〉 〈…〉 The inheritance of this Lady, was the Lordship of Connington in Huntingtonshire. The seat once of Turketell, the Dane, Earl of the East Angles, who invited over Swain King of Denmark, to invade this kingdom. He exiled with most of his Nation, by Saint Edmond the Confessor. This his seat, with other his large possessions, were given by the same King to Walth●o● Earl of Northumberland and Huntingdon, to whom the first William gave in marriage, the Lady judithe, his sister's daughter. This Lordship with the Earldom of Huntingdon, by the marriage of Mary that Earl's daughter, to David the son of the first Malcolm, King of Scots, and the holy Margaret his wife, Niece to Edward the King, Confessor, Grandchild to Edmond, surnamed Ironside, King of the English Saxons, and sister and heir to Edgar surnamed Ethelinge, by which marriage, the Stem Royal of the Saxons, became united into the blood Royal of the Scottish Kings; in whose male line, that Earldom, and this Lordship continued until Isabella, the daughter and heir of David Earl of Huntingdon, and brother to Malcome, William, and Alexander, successive Kings of that kingdom, brought them both by her marriage to Robert de Brus, into that family. She leaving the just claim of the Crown of Scotland, to Robert her eldest son, whose son Robert the third, thereof obtained full possession: in right from whom, our sacred sovereign King Charles is lineally to the same Crown descended. And to her second son, Bernard de Brus, she gave this Lordship of Connington, with other large possessions in England, which after four descents in that Stem, was by marriage of Anne, the daughter and heir of Sir john de Brus, to Sir Hugh Welengham, brought into that family, who after three descents by the marriage of Mary, the daughter and heir of the last of that surname, it came to William, second son of Sir Richard Cotton of Ridware, in the County of Stafford. From whom Sir Robert Cotton, Knight and Baronet, is lineally to that Lordship of Connyngton now descended. Hereby appeareth the much mistaking of many, who hold that the first King of the Norman race, canceled with his sword, all claim of Inheritances before his entrance, whereas in truth he neither altered the fundamental laws or liberties of the Kingdom, or fortunes of any, but of those that sided with Harrold against him in his claim. For the words of his own great Charter under seal, made the day of his Coronation, are; Devicto Harraldo Rege cum suis complicibus in ore gladij: over whom only he declareth his conquest, but his Title was beneficio concessionis beati regis Edwardi cognati sui. And that he acknowledgeth as his right: And we cannot pass over a dutiful and thankful remembrance unto God, who in his divine justice, after the course of little more than 500 years, hath restored again in the sacred person of King james, of happy memory, the lineal Royal race, and blood of the Saxon Monarchy. In him uniting the Briton, Saxon, Norman, and Scottish Regal blood, and by him restoring not only the name, but the ancient dignity of the Britain Empire: fulfilling that old presage of Aquila, recorded many hundred years ago. Regnabunt Britoneses Albani Gentis amici Antiquum nomen Insula tota feret Vt profert Aquila veteri de turre Loquta Cum Scotis britons regna paterna regent Regnabunt pariter in prosperitate quieta Hostibus expulsis judicis usque diem. Of which we have a most happy assurance, by the now blessed issue of our most gracious and dread Sovereign King Charles, who hath crowned thereby this state with an eternal peace. Under this stone lieth here, john Bedel▪ john Bedel Tallow Chandlere. Who departed the nynth day Of this present month of May: On thousand five hundred and fifteen, As is here plain to be seen. Such as thou art, such have I been somtym, Such as I am, such salt thou be in tim▪ Therefore of thy charity remembyr me, Even as in like case thou wouldst remembryd be. I beseech on God in trinity, On my soul to have mercy. Here lieth Walter Garden, Walter Garden. come out of the west, God geeu to the soul of him good rest. I pray you negbors everich on, Prey for me, for I am gone. who died 26 April 1523. Sancta Maria virgo virginum, joan Pymichum. Prey for the soul of jone Pymichum. Here lies undyr this stone, john Den Barber Surgeon, Io. Den and Agnes his wife. And Agnes his wife, who to heaven went, M. ccccc. and x. that is verament. For whose soul, of your cherite, Say a Pater Noster and an Aue Marie. johannes Skeltonus vates Pierius hic situs est animam * Eijcit●▪ egit, 21 junij 1529. This john Skelton was that pleasant merry Poet (as his rhymes yet extant do testify) who styled himself johannes Skeltonus Orator regius, Io. Skelton Poet Laureate▪ Poeta laureatus. He flourished in the reigns of Henry the seventh, and Henry the eight, by whom, in the Choir, Thomas Churchyard, that old Court-Poet lieth interred, and not in the Church-Porch, as these rhymes following would approve. Come, Allecto, and lend me thy Torch, To found a Church yard in a Church porch. Povertie and Poetry, this Tomb doth enclose, Therefore Gentlemen, be merry in Prose. I find in the collections of Master Camden, that there was some unkind passages betwixt this Poet laureate Skelton, and Lily our sole authentic allowed Grammarian; in so much, that Skelton carping against the verses of the said Lily, is (bitterly) by him thus answered. Lilij endecasillaba in Skeltonum Eius carmina calumniantem. Quid me Skeltone front sic aperta Carpis vipereo potens veneno? Quid versus trutina meos iniqua Libras? dicere vera num licebit? Doctrinae tibi dum parare famam, Et doctus fieri studes Poeta; Doctrinam nec habes, nec es Poeta. Almshouses of Henry the 7. On the South side of the Gatehouse, King Henry the 7. founded an Almshouse for thirteen poor men, one of them to be a Priest▪ aged five and forty years, a good Grammarian: the other 12 to be aged fifty years, without wives: every Saturday the Priest to receive of the Abbot or Prior, four pence by the day, and each other, two pence half penny by the day for ever, for their sustenance; and every year to each one, a Gown and a hood ready made. And to three women that dressed their meat, and kept them in their sickness, each to have every Saturday sixteen pence, and every year a Gown ready made. More to the thirteen poor men yearly, fourscore quarters of Coals, and one thousand of good Faggots to their use. In the Hall and Kitchen of their mansion, a discreet Monk to be overseer of them, and he to have forty shillings by the year, etc. and hereunto was every Abbot and Prior sworn. An Almshouse founded by Margaret, Countess of Richmond. Westward from the Gate house, was an old Chapel of Saint Anne, over against the which, the Lady Margaret, Countess of Richmond and Derby, and mother to King Henry the seventh, erected an Almshouse for poor women, which was afterwards turned into lodgings for the Singing men of the College. the place wherein this Chapel and Almshouse stood, was called the Eleemosinary or Almory, now corruptly the Ambry, for that the alms of the Abbey was there distributed to the poor. An Hospital founded by Lady Anne Dacre. At the entry into Totehill field, was sometimes an old building, called Stourton house, which Giles, Lord Dacre of the South, purchased and built new, whose Lady and wife Anne, Sister to Thomas Lord Buckhurst, the first of that Family, Earl of Dorset, left money to her Executours, to build an Hospital there for twenty poor women, and so many children to be brought up under them. For whose maintenance she assigned Lands, to the value of one hundred pounds by the year. Almshouses founded by Cornelius Van Dun. In the same field, upon Saint Hermit's hill, and near unto a Chapel of Saint Mary Magdelen, now wholly ruinated; Cornelius van Dun borne at Breda in Brabant, a Soldier with King Henry the eight at Turney, yeoman of the Guard, and Usher to the said King Henry, Edward, Mary, and Elizabeth, Kings and Queens of famous memory: built certain Almshouses for twenty poor widows to dwell in rent free. He died in September, An. 1577. aged 94. years. The Hermitage, Hospital, and Free-school at Highgate-hill. In ancient times upon the top of this hill was an Hermitage; one of the Hermit's whereof, caused to be made the Causeway between Highgate and Islington, taking the gravel from the top of the hill, where now is a standing pond of water. One William Poole Yeoman of the Crown, founded the Hospital below on the hill, in the reign of King Edward the fourth. The free School was built by Sir Roger Cholmundely, or Cholmeley, knight, Specul. Brit. sometime Lord chief justice of the King's Bench; about the year 1564. the sixth of Queen Elizabeth. The Pension of the Master is uncertain (saith Norden) there is no Usher, and the School is in the disposition of six Governors, or Overseers. Our Lady's Chapel of Muswell, or Mousewell hill. Here was, in ancient times, a Chapel bearing the name of our Lady of Muswell; in the place whereof Alderman Roe erected a fair house. The place taketh name of the Well, and of the Hill; for there is on the hill a spring of fair water, which is now within the compass of Sir Nicholas Roes Cellar, in the said house. Here was sometime an Image of our Lady of Muswell, whereunto was a continual resort, in the way of pilgrimage, growing (as it goes by tradition from father to the son) in regard of a great cure, which was performed by this water, upon a king of Scots, who being strangely diseased, was (by some divine intelligence) advised to take the water of a Well in England, called Muswell; which, after long scrutation and inquisition, this Well was found, and performed the cure. Absolutely to deny the cure (saith Norden) I dare not, for that the high God hath given virtue unto waters, to heal infirmities, as may appear by the cure of Naaman the Leper, 2. King. 1.14. joh. ●. 2. by washing himself seven times in jordan; and by the Pool Bethesda, which healed the next that stepped thereinto, after the water was moved by the Angel. The Hermitage at Kilbourne. In the time of King Henry the first, Herbert Abbot of Westminster, by permission of Gilbert Bishop of London, and by consent of the Covent, granted to three Maids the Hermitage of Kilbourne, with all the land of that place; which Hermitage one Gorbone had builded long before. The Hospital of S. Giles in the Fields for Leprous people. This Hospital was founded by Queen Maude, wife to king Henry the first, Stow Survey. in the year 1117. and was a Cell belonging to Burton Lazars of jerusalem, in the County of Leicester; as may appear by a deed dated the 24. of Hen. 7. in these words. Thomas Norton knight, Master of Burton Lazars of jerusalem in England, and the brethren of the same place, keepers of the Hospital of Saint Giles, without the Bars of the old Temple of London; have sold to Geffrey Kent, Citizen, and Draper of London, a message or house with two Sollars above, edified in the Parish of All-hallows Hony-Jane in Westcheape, adjoining to the West part of a Tenement, called the Goat on the Hope, pertaining to the Drapers of London, for 31. l. S. Giles Bowl. At this Hospital the prisoners, conveyed from the City of London towards Teyborne, there to be executed, were presented with a great Bowl of Ale, thereof to drink at their pleasure. The Hospital of Saint Mary Bethlem, commonly called Bedlam. In the year 1247. Simon Fitzmary, one of the Sheriffs of London, founded this Hospital for lame and indigent people, which afterwards was converted to that use, which the City now makes of it, upon this occasion. In the Parish of Saint martin's in the field, there was an house wherein sometime were distraught and Lunatic people; of what antiquity founded, by whom, or what time suppressed, saith Stow, I have not read. But it was said, that a King of England, not liking such a kind of people to remain so near his Palace, caused them to be removed further off, to Bethlem without Bishopsgate of London, and to that Hospital the said house by charingcross doth yet remain. S. Peter's Chapel within the Tower. Here lie interred the headless remains of john Fisher Doctor of Divinity, sometime Bishop of Rochester, brought up a Scholar in Cambridge; Master of our College (I mean Queen's College in Cambridge) and Chancellor of that University. He was made Cardinal t t. S. Vitalis, the one and twentieth of May, which honour was to him parum vitalis, for the Cardinal's hat and his head never met together; he being beheaded on the Tower-hill the 22. of june following, Ann. Dom. 1535. His body was first buried in Barking Churchyard, and afterwards upon occasion as followeth, removed to this place. He was a man in great estimation with Margaret Countess of Richmond, by whose exhortation she built and endowed two Colleges in Cambridge, S. john's, and Christ College; she made him one of her executours. He lived likewise a long time in great favour with her Grandchild King Henry the eight; even until his marriage with Anne Bullein; which he ever seemed to disallow. Whereupon he was suspected, and accused, to be of council with Elizabeth Barton (commonly called the holy Maid of Kent) a Nun of Saint Sepulchers in Canterbury, who by sundry suggestive revelations gave out, that if the King proceeded in divorce and second marriage, he should not reign in his realm seven months after, nor rest in God's favour the space of an hour. The story is frequent. Of which imputation he thus excused himself by his letters to the King's Majesty. To the Kings most gracious Highness. Please it your gracious Highenes benignly to hear this my most humble suit, The Bishop of Rochester● letter to 〈◊〉 S. amongst the letters 〈…〉 In bib. Cotton. which I have to make unto your grace at this time, and to pardon me that I come not myself unto your grace for the same. For in good faith I have had so many periculouse diseases, one after another, which began with me before Advent; and so by long continuance hath now brought my body into that weakness, that withouten peril of destruction of the same (which I darr say your grace for your sovereign goodness would not) I may not as yet take any traveling upon me. And so I wrote to Master Cromwell your moost trusty Councillor, Cromwell principals Secretary. beseeching him to obtain your gracious licence for me, to be absent from this Parliament, for that same cause, and he put me in comforthe so to do. Now thus it is (most gracious sovereign Lord) that in your most high Court of Parliament is put in a bill against me, concerning the Nun of Canterbury, and intending my condemnation for not revelling of such words as she had unto me touching your Highness. Wherein I most humbly beseech your grace, that without displeasor I may show unto you, the consideration that moved me so to do; which when your moost excellent wisdom hath deaplye considered, I trust assuredly, that your charitable goodness will not impute any blame to me therefore. A trowth it is, this Nun was with me thrice in coming from London by Rochester, as I wrote to Master Cromwell, and showed unto him the occasions of her coming, and of my sendings until her again. The first time she came unto my house, unsent for of my party, and then she told me that she had been with your grace, and that she had showed unto you a revelation which she had from Almighty God (your grace I hope will not be displeased with this my rehearsal thereof) She said that if your grace went forth with the purpose that ye intended, ye should not be King of England seven months after. I conceived not by these words, I take it upon my soul, that any malice or evil was intended or meant unto your highness, by any mor all man, butt oonly that they were the threattes of God, as she than did affirm. And though they were feaned, that (as I would be saved) was to me unknown. I never counciled her unto that feaning, not was privaye thereunto, nor to any such purposes, as it is now said they went about. Nevertheless if she had told me this Revelation, and had not alsoo told me, that she had reported the same unto your grace, I had been verily far to blame, and worthy extreme punishment, for not disclosing the same unto your highness, or else to some of your counsel; But sithen she did assure me therewith, that she had plainly told unto your grace the same thing, I thought doubtless that your grace would have suspected me that I had common to renew her tale again unto you, rather for the conferming of mine opinion, than for any other cause. I beseech your highness to take no displeasor with me for this that I will say. It stykketh yet (moost gracious Soveraygne) in my hart, to my no little heaviness your grievous letters, and after that your moost fearful words, that your grace had unto me for showing unto you my mind and opinion in the same matter. Notwithstanding that your highness had so often and so straitly commanded me to search for the same before. And for this cause I was right loath to have common unto your grace again, with such a tale pertaining to that matter. Many other considerations I had, but this was the very cause why that I came not unto your grace. For in good faith, I drad lest I should thereby have provoked your grace to farther displeasor against me. My Lord of * ●il. Warbam Canterbury also which was your great Counsaillor, told me that she had been with your grace, and had showed you this same matter, and of him (as I will answer before God) I learned greater things of her pretenced visions than she told me herself. And at that same time I shewede unto him, that she had been with me, and told me as I have written before. I trust now that your excellent wisdom and learning seeth there is in me no default, for not revelling of her words unto your grace; when she herself did affirm unto me that she had so done, and my Lord of Canterbury that then was, confirmed alsoo the same. Wherefore most gracious Soveraygne Lord, in my most humble wise I beseech your highenes to dimisse me of this trouble, whereby I shall the more quietly serve God, and the more effectually pray for your grace; This, if there were a right great offence in me, should be to your merit to pardon, but much rather taking the case as it is, I trust veryly you will so do. Now my body is much weakened with many diseases and infirmities, and my soul is much inquieted by this trouble, so that my heart is more withdrawn from God, and fro the devotion of prayer than I would. And veryly I think that my live may not long continue. Wherefore eftsoons I beseech your moost gracious highenes, that by your charitable goodness I may be delivered of this business, and only to prepare my soul to God, and to make itt ready against the coming of death, and no moor to come abroad in the world. This most gracious Sovereign Lord, I beseech your highness, by all the singular and excellent endewments of your most noble body and soul, and for the love of Christ jesus, that so dearly with his moost precious blood redeamed your and mine. And during my live I shall not cease (as I am bounden) and yet now the more entearly to make my prayer to God for the preservation of your most royal Majesty. At Rochester, the xxvii. day of February. Your most humble Beadman and subject, Io. Roffe. He writ likewise to the high Court of Parliament (then sitting) to the same effect: but before this business was fully finished, another came upon him, In part Anno 2● Hen. 8. ca 10. which was the oath of Supremacy; the refusing whereof, being tendered, was adjudged high treason. This oath, or some part of it, he denies, whereupon he is committed to the Tower, from whence he thus writes to Cromwell. After my most humble commendations, Ex lit in Bib. Cotton. where as ye covet that I should write unto the King's Highness, in good faith, I dread me that I cannot be so circumspect in my writing, but that sum word shall escape me, wherewith his grace shall be moved to sum further displeasure against me, whereof I would be very sorry: For, as I will answer by for God, I would not in any manner of point offend his grace, my duty saved unto God, whom I must in every thing prefer. And for this consideration, I am full loath and full of fear to write unto his highness in this matter. Nevertheless sithence I conceive that it is your mind that I shall so do, I will endeavour me to the best that I can. But first here I must beseech you good master Secretary, to call to your remembrance, that at my last being before you, and the other Commissioners, for taking of the oath concerning the Kings most noble succession, I was content to be sworn unto that parcel concerning the succession. And there I did rehearse this reason, which I sade moved me. I doubted not, but that the Prince of eny Realm, with th' assent of his nobles and commons, might appoint for his succession Royal, such an order as was seen unto his wisdom most according. And for this reason, I fade, that I was content to be sworn unto that part of the oath as concerning the succession. This is very trowth, as God help my sowl at my most need. Albeit I refused to swear to some other parcels, because that my conscience would not serve me so to do. furthermore I beseech you to be good master unto me in my necessity, for I have nether Shirt, nor Suit, nor yet other clothes that are necessary for me to wear; but that be ragged and torn to shamefully. Notwithstanding I might easily suffer that, if they would keep my body warm. But my dyett also, God knows, how slender itt is at many times. And now in mine age, my stomach may not away but with a few kind of meats, which if I want, I decay forthwith, and fall into coffes and diseases of my body, and cannot keep myself in health. Robert Fisher. And, as our Lord knoweth, I have nothing left unto me for to provide any better, but as my Brother of his own purse layeth out for me, to his great hindrance. Wherefore, good Master Secretary, eftsoon I beseech you to have some pity upon me, and latt me have such things as are necessary for me in mine age; and especially for my health. And also that itt may please you by your high wisdom, to move the King's highness to take me unto his gracious favour again, and to restor me unto my liberty, out of this cold and painful imprisonment; whereby ye shall bind me to be your poor beadsman for ever unto almighty God, who ever have you in his protection and custody. Other twain things I must also desire upon you, first oon is, that itt may please you that I may take some Priest within the Tower, by th' assignment of master Lieutenant, to hear my confession against this holy tim. That other is, that I may borrow some books to stir my devotion mor effectually these holy days, for the comfortte of my sowl. This I beseech you to grant me of your charity. And thus our Lord send you a merry Christenmas, and a comfortable to your heart's desire. Att the Tower this xxii. day of December. Your poor Beadsman, john Roffe. Thus he lay imprisoned, in great misery, hungry, cold, and comfortless, as the prisoners ditty in Newgate runs, until the time of his arraignment: during which time, as also before, being diverse times examined by the Lords of the privy Council, Ex Mss. in bib. Cot. as also examined and sworn in verbo Sacer docij, by Thomas Bedyll, and Richard Layton, Clerks of the King's Council, in the presence of Sir Edmond Walfingham, knight, Lieutenant of the Tower, and others, to many Interrogatories, his answers were ever agreeable in effect, with his letters. He was arraigned only for denying of the Supremacy (howsoever he was before attainted by Parliament, of misprision of Treason, for the matter of the holy Maid of Kent) as by this his Indictment appears, of which so much as is material. Quidem tamen johannes Fyssher nuper de civitate Roffen. in Com. Kanc. Clericus, The Tenor of Bishop Fisher's Indictment. alias dictus johannes Fyssher nuper de Rofen. Episcopus, deum pre oculis non habens, sed instigatione diabolica seductus, false maliciose et proditorie optans volens et desiderans, ac arte imaginans inventans practitans et attemptans serenissimum dominum nostrum Henricum octawm dei gratia Angl. et Franc. Regem fidei defensorem & dominum Hibernie atque in terra supremum caput Ecclesie Anglicane de dignitate titulo & nomine status sui Regalis, videlicet de dignitate titulo et nomine eius in terra, supremi capitis Anglicane Ecclesie dicte imperiali corone sue ut premittit. annexis & unitis deprivare, Septimo die Maij Anno regni eiusdem domini Regis vicessimo septimo apud Tarrim London in Com. Mid. contra legiancie sue debitum hec verba Anglicana sequent. diversis dicti domini Regis veris subditis false maliciose & proditory loquebatur et propalabat videlicet. The King hour Sovereign Lord is not supreme head yn earth of the Cherche of England. In dicti domini Regis immund. despect. et vilipendium manifest. ac in dictorum dignitatis, tituli et nominis status sui Regalis derogationem et preiudic non modicum, et contra formam dicti alterius Actus perdicti Anno xxvi. edit ac contra pacem prefati domini Regis, etc. Of this Indictment being found guilty, he had judgement, whereupon execution presently followed; which the more was hastened, as also his arraignment, in regard of the rumour that a Cardinal's hat was coming towards him from the Pope, Ex Mss. in bib. Cotton. because he had stood so stoutly in his defence: which news was so unwelcome unto him, that upon the first report thereof coming to his ears, he said in the presence of some of the Lieutenants servants, that if the Cardinal's hat were laid at his feet, he would not stoop to take it up, so little did he set by it: but let us leave him to his eternal rest, only thus much out of the writers of his time, who say, that he was omnium Episcopalium Virtutum genere suffarcinatissimus, Eras. et singulari linguae gratia praeditus. He was of many, Vid. Bal. cent. 5. sore lamented, being a man of a very good life, and great learning, as his writings in diverse books did testify. The common people had such a reverend opinion of his holiness, that they believed certain miracles to be wrought by his head put upon a Pole, and set up upon London Bridge. Adrianus junius, and Cornelius Musius, two Germane writers, of Fisher thus, Oputer. opus: Cronog. orbis Vniversi pag. 477. in opposition. junius. Te nivei mores celebrem, et conscia virtus E●exit coelo, et relligionis amor. Sed dum Romuleo nimium tibicine fultus Perstas, nec causam Regis amare potes: Mors properatatibi est, cervise cruenta rescissa, Munus ubi inselix purpura missa venit. Musius. Non ego purpureos ambi●i indignus honores Nec potui humanis fidere praesidijs. Vnica cura fidem intrepide veramque tueri Commissoque ovium pro grege cuncta pati. Si quaeras ceruix igitur cur ense re scissa est? Improba displicuit Regia caussa mihi. Another. Dum mihi martyrij donat Diadema securis Quaeso meum teneas o bone trunce caput. Another. Vim sine vi patior, qualis qui carcere rupto Cogitur e vinclis liber abire suis. The sixth day of july following the decollation of Bishop Fisher, Sir. Tho. Moor. Sir Thomas More, Lord Chancellor of England, was likewise beheaded on the Tower hill, for the like denial of the King's Supremacy: he was first buried in this Chapel, and the body of his dear friend Fisher was removed out of Barking Churchyard, and buried with him in the same grave: for agreeing so unanimously in their opinions living, it was (be like) thought unfitting to part them being dead; but how long they lay together in this their house of rest, I certainly know not: yet this is certain, that Margaret, the wife of Master Roper, and daughter of the said Sir Thomas More, remoted her father's corpse, not long after, to Chelsey; and whether she honowed the Bishop by another remove to the place of her father's burial, or not, I know not; yet she might, by all probability. They were both accused to be of the adherents to Elizabeth Barton in her counterfeit holiness, hypocrisy, and traitorous intents; but their innocence, and their often writing to the King and Cromwell, in their own excuse, acquitted them of that imputation. In parl. Anno 26 Hen. 8. ca 2. In the Act for the surety of the succession of the Crown of England, an oath was devised for the maintenance and defence of the said Act, which was to be taken by all the King's subjects; this oath being tendered to these two, they were content to be sworn to the main point, but not to the preamble of the said Oath, which I have touched before; of which, Cranmer Archbishop of Canterbury, thus delivers his opinion by his letter to Secretary Cromwell: if I now digress, I crave a favourable construction. Ex lit. in Bib. Cotton. Right worshipful Master Cromwell, after most hearty commendations, etc. I doubt not but you do right well remember, that my Lord of Rochester, and master More, were contented to be sworn to the Act of the King's succession, but not to the preamble of the same: what was the cause of their refusal thereof, I am uncertain, and they would by no means express the same. Nevertheless it must nediss be, either the diminution of the authority of the Bishop of Rome, or else the reprobation of the King's first pretenced matrimony. But if they do obstinately persist in their opinions of the preamble, yet me seemeth it schooled not be refused, if they will be sworn to the very act of succession; so that they will be sworn to maintain the same against all powers and Potentates. For hereby shall be a great occasion to satisfy the Princess Dowager, and the Lady Mary, which do think that they should damn their souls, if they should abandon and relinquish their astats. And not only it should stop the mouths of they, but also of th'emperor, and other tha●r friends, if they give as much credence to my Lord of Rochester, and master More speaking or doing against they, as they hitherto have done and thought, that all other should have done when they spoke and did with they. And peradventure it should be a good quietation to many other within this Realm, if such men should say that the succession comprised within the said act is good, and according to God's laws. For than I think there is not one within this realm that would ones reclaim against it. And where as diverse people either of a wilfulness, will not, or of an indurate and invertible conscience can not, alter from their opinions of the King's first pretenced marriage, (wherein they have ones said their minds, and percase have a persuasion in their heads, that if they should now vary therfrome, their fame and estimation were distained for ever) or else of the authority of the Busschope of Rome: yet if all the realm with one accord would apprehend the said succession, in my judgement it is a thing to be amplected and embraced, which thing, although I trust surely in God, that it shall be brought to pass, yet hereunto might not a little avail the consent and oaths of these two people the Busshope of Rochester, and Master More with their adherents, or rather confederates: And if the King's pleasure so were, their said oaths might be suppressed, but when and where his highness might take some commodity by the publyshinge of the same. Thus our Lord have you ever in his conservation. From my Manner at Croyden, the xvii day of April. Your own assured ever, Thomas Cantuar. Here in this letter is to be seen the wisdom and policy of this prudent Archbishop, who could make such available use to the state, of the strong opinion, which most men conceived, of the profound judgement of these two persons. This Sir Thomas More was pregnant of wit, Scrip. B●●t. Cent. 5. De I●ust. Angie Scriptoribus eloquent, wise, and learned, as by his books still extant doth appear: and besides those mentioned by Bale, which we have in print. During the time of his imprisonment, which was fourteen months (saith Pitseus) he writ an historical exposition of the Passion of our Lord and Saviour jesus Christ, according to the four Evangelists. Which I can hardly believe: for I find, that when he was in prison, his books and all his papers were taken away from him. Whereupon he shut up his Chamber-windowes, saying, When the wares are gone, and the tools taken away, we must shut up shop. Thus would he lose his light before he would lose his jest; for that he would never lose nor leave off, upon the least occasion offered, until he had lost his head. He was twice married, In Epist. ad Vldric. Huttenum de vita Mori. first, (saith Erasmus his intimate dear friend) Virginem daxit admodum puellam, claro genere natam; He married a Maid very young, borne of a noble Family, whom he took care to have instructed in all good literature, and to be expert in all sorts of Music; by her he had four children; one Son named john, and three daughters: Margaret, Alice, or Aloysia, and Cicely. God (saith Leland that reverend Antiquary, that lived in his days) extraordinarily blessed these his children, and namely, his three daughters, to whom he had given an admirable dexterity, in the science of Songs and Arts: which he noteth in this his learned Epigram. Desine facundas nimium laudare diserti Io. Lelandi Moriades, siue charitaea cor●na. Natas Hortensi maxima Roma tui. Candida tres charites nam Mori cura politi Obscurant multis nomina vestra modis. Non illis studium Milesia vellera dextra Carpere, non facili ducere fila manu: Sed innat eloquij crebro monumenta latini Versare, & doctis pingere verba notis. Nec minus authores Graecos evoluere, Homerum Et quem dicendi gloria prima manet. Vt nec Aristotelis dicam quo pectore libros Scrutentur, sophiae mystica dona deae. Turpe viris posthac erit ignorare Mineruae Artes, grex adeo quas muliebris amet. His second wife was a widow, Camd. Remains, in wise speeches. of whom he was wont to say, that she was, nec bella nec puella. Who as she was a good huswife, so was she not void of the fault that often followeth that virtue, somewhat shrewd to her servants. Upon a time Sir Thomas found fault with her continual chiding, saying, If that nothing would reclaim her, yet the consideration of the time (for it was Lent) should restrain her. Tush, tush, my Lord (said she) look here is one step to heaven-ward, showing him a Friar's girdle. I fear me, said he, this one step will not bring you up a step higher. One day when she came from shrift, she said merrily to her husband; Be merry, Sir Thomas, for this day was I well shriven, I thank God, and purpose now therefore to leave off all my old shrewdness. Yea (quoth he) and to begin afresh. This man thus much given to a certain pleasure in harmless mirth, facetious jests, and present witty answers, was wonderful zealous in Religion, and devout: in so much that diverse times in his Chancellourship, he would put on a Surplise, and help the Priest to say and sing divine Service; for which being reprehended by Thomas Duke of Norfolk, who told him that it was a dishonour to the King, that the Lord Chancellor of England should be a Parish Clerk. He thus answered, Now truly, my Lord, I think, and verily believe, that when the King shall hear of the care I have both to serve his Master and mine, he will accept and take me for a faithful Servant. Which he might well say; for upon his first coming to his service, the King gave him this godly lesson: First look unto God, and then after unto me. Upon which religious and Princely lesson, he grounds a reason, and pleads a liberty, to use his own proper conscience in the Kings most weighty affairs; as you may perceive by this part of a letter following written to Cromwell. Ex lit. in bib. Cott. Right worshipful, etc. it pleased the Kings' highness to send me in the company of my Lord of London, now of Duresme, in embassiate about the Peace that at our being there was concluded at Cameray, between his highness, and theemperor, and the French King. And after my coming home, his highness of his only goodness (as far my unworthy I was thereto) made me (as you well know) his Chancellor of this Realm: soon after which time, his grace moved me again yit-eftsonys to look and consider his great matter, and well and indifferently to pondre such things as I should found therein. And if it so were, that thereupon it should happen me to see such things as should persuade me to that part; he would gladly use me among other of his Counsellors in that matter; & nevertheless gracyousely declared unto me, that he would in no wise that I should other thing do or say therein, than upon that that I should perceive mine own conscience should serve me; and that I should fyrst look unto God, and after God unto him. Which most gracious words was the fyrst lesson also that ever his grace gave me at my fyrst coming into his noble servyce. etc. This learned Chancellor with much labour and earnest suit to the King got leave to leave his office, before he had continued therein fully three years. Upon his last speech to his three daughters, and to the people present at his decollation: thus one writes. Ne lugete meo confusae funere natae: Nich. Grudius. Ipse ego mutari non mea fata velim. Truncum terra teget, si Rex non abnuet urnam; Et mea iam terris nomina nota volant. Libera mens superos repetet, neque seruiet unquam, In partem hanc quod agat nulla securis habet. Tu quoque spectator, tranquillum si cupis ae●um Exigere, & letho fortior esse tuo. Qui tibi membra cadan● nullo in discrimine pone; Quum sint naturae lege caduca suae. Another of his death, by way of Dialogue: thus. Hospes. Quis iacet hic truncus? cuius caput ense rescissum est? Quae natat in tetro sanguine canitieses: Civis. Hic est ille Thomas Morus, sic fata rependunt Tristia multa bonis, & bona multa malis. Hospes. Quae circumsistunt Divae lugubre cadaver? Diva tenax veri, sancta Fides, Nemesis. Civis. Harum prima odij caussa, & fuit altera mortis Vltrix iniustae, tertia caedis erat. Anno Domini, M. D.XXXV.vi. Non. julij. Thus much of Sir Thomas More in this place; you may know more of him hereafter, by his Epitaph in Chelsey Church. Cromwell, Tho. Cromwell Earl of Essex. surnamed the great, whom Wolsey first raised from the forge to eminent good fortunes; whom Henry the eight used as his instrument, to suppress the Pope's supremacy, and to dissolve religious Structures; whom he advanced to the highest pitch of honour and authority: Ex Mss. in bib. Cotton. whom he cast down suddenly, and bereft both of life and dignity, lies here interred. He followed the same steps, to the same Stage, upon the said Tower-hill, and acted there the same part, which his two friends, More, and Fisher, had done before him: and that within five years after. This Cromwell, this pillar of the State, was borne in Putney, a Village in Surrey, by Thames side, four miles distant from London; he was son to a Blacksmith, in his later days a Brewer. Whose mother, after his father's decease, was remarried to a Shereman. Of whose birth a late writer thus sings. Putney the place made blessed by my birth, M. Drayton in the Legend of great Cromwell. Whose meanest cottage simply me did shroud, To me as dearest of the English Earth; So of my bringing that poor village proud, Though in a time when never less the dearth Of happy wits, yet mine so well allowed, That with the best she boldly durst prefer Me, that my breath acknowledged from her. He was a man of an active and forward ripeness of nature, ready and pregnant of wit, discreet, and well advised in judgement, eloquent of tongue, faithful and diligent in service, of an incomparable memory, of a reaching politic head, and of a noble and undaunted spirit. Whose good parts being perceived by Cardinal Wolsey, he took him strait into his service, made him his Solicitor, and employed him in matters of great importance: after whose fall, he was presently advanced to the King's service; wherein he so industriously and wisely demeaned himself, as that he was thought worthy by the said King, to have the ordering of all weighty affairs. Whereupon at several times, he heaped these several offices and honours upon him; he made him Master of his jewell-house; Baron Cromwell of Okeham, principal Secretary, Master of the Rolls, Chancellor of the Exchequer, Keeper of the privy Seal, justice of the Forests and Chases from the River of Trent Northward, great Chamberlain of England, Earl of Essex, Knight of the Garter, Vicegerent, or Vicar general. Of which my fore remembered friend thus writes. M. Drayton. For first from knighthood rising in degree, The Office of the jewell-house my lot, After the Rolls, he frankly gave to me, From whence a privy Counsellor I got, Then of the Garter; and then Earl to be Of Essex: yet sufficient these were not: But to the great vicegerency I grew, Being a title as supreme as new. Thus Fortune raised him a short time for a sudden fall; For upon the eighteenth day of April, 1540 he was invested with the honour of the Earldom of Essex, and high Chamberlainship of England; upon which day the King also made his son Gregory Lord Cromwell. Upon the ninth of july, next and immediately following (being envied of many for his honour and authority) he was suddenly arrested in the councel-chamber, and committed to the Tower, upon the nineteenth of the said month, he was attainted by Parliament, of heresy and high Treason; and upon the 28. of the said month, he was beheaded on the Tower-hill. More succinctly, thus, his precipitate downfall is versified. M. Drayton. The councel-chamber place of my arrest, Where chief I was, when greatest was the store: And had my speeches noted of the best, That did them as high Oracles adore. A Parliament was lastly my Enquest, That was myself a Parliament before. The Tower hill Scaffold, last I did ascend, Thus the great'st man of England made his end. And such bloody ends most men have, who are busy managers of the greatest matters. He was condemned to death, Some say, no such Act was devised by him to cause his own death. Speed. chap. 21. and yet never came to his answer, by an act (as it is said) which he himself caused to be made; of which my fore-remembred Author M. Drayton. Those laws I made myself alone to please, To give me power more freely to my will, Even to my equals hurtful sundry ways, (Forced to things that most do say were ill) Upon me now as violently seize, By which I lastly perish by my skill, On mine own neck returning (as my due) That heavy yoke wherein by me they drew. Thus whilst we strive, too suddenly to rise, By flattering Princes with a servile tongue; And being soothers to their tyrannies, Work our much woes, by what doth many wrong. And unto others tending injuries, Unto ourselves it happening oft among. In our own snares unluckily are caught, Whilst our attempts fall instantly to naught. Many lamented this great man's fall, but more rejoiced, especially such as had been religious men, or favoured religious persons; of the Clergy he was much hated, for that he was an enemy to Popery, and could never endure the snuffing pride of the Prelates. Thankful he was, and liberal, never forgetting former benefits, as appears by his requital of the kindness he had received from Friscolald the Italian Merchant; john Fox. M. Drayton. careful he was of his servants, for whom he had provided a competency of living, notwithstanding his sudden fall: faithful and forward he was to do his friends good, and amongst them More and Fisher, if we may believe their own letters, of which some part. Right worshipful, Sir Tho. Moor, to Master Cromwell, Ex lit. in bib. Cot▪ after my moost hearty commendations, it may please you to understand that I have perceived by the relation of my Son Rooper, (for which I beseech almighty God reward you) your moost cheritable labour taken for me toward the King's gracious highness, in the procuring at his moost gracious hand, the relief and comfort of this woeful heaviness, in which mine heart standeth, etc. concluding in these words. And thus good Master Cromwell, I make an end of my long troublous process, beseeching the blessed Trinity, for the great goodness ye show me, and the great comfort ye do me both bodily and ghostly to prosper you, and in heaven to reward you. At Chelcith the v. day of March, by Your deeply bounden, Tho. More, Knight. Bishop Fisher acknowledgeth the like kindness from him in many of his letters: And howsoever these two famous scholars, after some hard imprisonment, lost both their lives; yet was he not wanting by his best endeavours, and his all-potencie with the King, to have saved their necks from the stroke of the Axe, which we may verily believe, when we consider that King Henry's command was a Law; of which Cromwell had a trial, being convicted and executed without trial. Services done by the foresaid Cromwell unto King Henry the eight, within a few years after his first coming into the favour and service of the said King, copied out of the Original, written with his own hand, and now remaining in the Treasury of the Exchequer. Imprimis, the King purchased Hampton Court. Item, the King purchased the Manore of Moye. Item, the King purchased Saint james in the fields, and all the grounds whereof the new Park of Westminster is made. Item, his highness hath purchased all the old Tenements in Westminstre, whereas now is builded the new garden, the Tenesplaies, and Cock-fights. Item, his highness hath purchased the Manore of Pisowe, of the Lord Scroop. Item, his highness hath purchased the Manore of Weston Baldock. Item, his highness hath purchased the Manore and Park of Copped-hall. Item, his Majesty hath purchased lands to a great value, of the Earl of Northumberland. Item, his Majesty hath purchased certain lands of Thomas robart's, the Auditore, lying besides Waltham. Item, his Highness hath purchased of the Lord Audley, the Manor of Lanamuerye and Keymes in Walls. Item, his Highness hath purchased the Manor, and certain other lands in Chombham, whereof a Park is made, of the Abbot of Chensey. Item, his Highness hath purchased the Manor of Alderbrooke in the Forest of Waltham, of one Monoke. Item, the King hath purchased the Manor of Edmonton, in the Country of Middlesex. Item, his Highness hath repaired the Tower of London, to his great charges. Item, his Highness hath newly made the Ship, called the Mary Rose, the Peter, Pomgarnete, the Lion, the Katherine Galley, the Bark, the Minione, the Sweepestake. Item, his Highness hath purchased the Manor of Cogeshall and Estorford, of master Southwell. Item, his highness hath purchased the woods besides Portesmouthe in Hampshire, sufficient for the new making of Henry-grace a dieu, and the great Galley. Item, his Highness hath bought and made within the Tower of new Bows for a M. l. Item, his Highness, with a great and chargeable train, passed the Seas in his own person to Calais and Bullen. Item, his Highness hath newly builded Hampton Court. Item, his Highness hath newly builded the place at Westminstre, with all the Tenesplaies and Cockfights, and walled in the Park there with a sumptuous wall. Item, he hath new builded Saint james in the fields, a magnificent and goodly house. Item, his Highness hath purchased the Manors of Dunmington, Ewelme, Hookenorton, and others, of the Duke of Suffolk. Item, his Highness hath made a great deal of new Ordnance of brass here in England. Item, his Highness hath newly edified a great part of the walls of cales. Item, his Highness hath made a great quantity of new Ordnance within the Town of cales. Item, his Highness hath most costly wars in Scotland. Item, he hath most costly wars in Ireland. Item, he hath been at a most costly charge for the Coronation of Queen Anne. Item, his Highness hath maintained the great and sumptuous house of the Lady Katherine Dowager. Besides these, he did many other services for the King his master; but I will insist only upon two, by which he greatly enriched his Coffers. The one was upon the Coronation of Queen Anne Bullen, against which solemnity, the King sent writings to all Sheriffs, to certify the names of men of forty pounds lands, to receive the order of Knighthood, or else to make fine for the same. The asseasement of which (saith my Author) was appointed to Thomas Cromwell then master of the King's jewell-house, who so used the matter, that a great sum of money was levied to the King's use by those fines. The other was his pains and policy in the suppressing of Religious Foundations. This great man gave great relief to the poor; Stow. Annal. two hundred poor people were served at his gates twice every day; with bread, meat, and drink sufficient. He had 220. men and above in check roll; he gave liveries guarded with velvet to his Getlemen; and guarded with the same cloth to his Yeomen, saith john Stow in the Survey of London, in the chapter of orders and customs. Queen Anne Bullein. Within the Choir of this Chapel, lieth buried the body of Anne Bollein, marchioness of Penbroke, eldest daughter and coheir of Thomas Bollein, Viscount Rochfort, Earl of Wiltshire and Ormond, second wife to King Henry the eight, to whom she bore into the world, that most renowned Princess, Elizabeth, our late Queen, who proved not only the mirror of the world, for virtue, wisdom, piety, and justice, but also a pattern for government to all the Princes in christendom. Speed cap. 21. Another man-child she bore also unto the said King, though without life, upon the 29. day of january, and the 27. year of his reign, to the no little grief of his mother, some dislike of the King, as the sequel of her accusation and death did shortly confirm: for upon the 19 day of May next following, upon the green within the Tower, her head was cut off by the sword, and by the hands of the Hangman of Caleis; when she had been King Henry's wife three years, three months, and twenty five days. The blood was scarce wiped off the blade, nor she 〈◊〉 in her grave, (an argument that her life was sought after upon fal●e 〈◊〉) before another Lady was possessed of her bed; for, on the 〈…〉 her beheading, the King her husband was married to that 〈◊〉 Princess jane, the the daughter of john Seymor Knight, and sister to Lord Edward Seymour, Earl of Hertford, and Duke of Somerset. Here lieth buried in the said Chapel, the body of George Bollein, Lord Rochfort, George Bullein, Lord Rochfort. brother to the beheaded Queen, who (together with Henry Norrice, Mark Smeton, William Brereton, and Francis Weston, all of the King's privy Chamber) was beheaded on the Tower h●ll, two days before the death of his Sister, about matters concerning the said Queen: none of them all confessing the act whereupon they suffered death; only Smeton, contrary to his conscience (saith one) confessed some thing, Speed cap. 21. in hope of life and preferment, which condemned both himself and the rest, of which, Sleidan. come. l. 10. thus Cromwell writ to the King. Many things have been objected, but nothing confessed, only some circumstances have been acknowledged by Mark Smeton. This he writ after the prisoners had been throughly examined in the Tower. This Smeton, Brierton, Norrice, and Weston, lie buried here in the Chappell-yard. Queen Katherine Howard. Here, and near to the relics of the said Anne Bollein, lieth interred the body of Katherine, the fifth wife of King Henry the eight, the daughter of Edmond, and Niece unto Thomas Howard his brother, Duke of Norfolk; who having continued his wife but the space of one year, six months, and four days, was attainted by Parliament, and beheaded here in the Tower, upon the 13. of February, 1541. It is verily believed, and many strong reasons are given, both by English and foreign writers, to confirm that belief; that neither this Queen Katherine, nor Queen Anne, were any way guilty of the breach of matrimony, whereof they were accused; but that King Henry, unconstant and variable in his affections, and as unstayed in religious resolutions, did cut them off upon false suggestions, soon weary of the old, and ever aiming at new Espousals. Between these two Queens, Ed. and john Dukes of Somerset and Northumberland before the high Altar, lie buried two Dukes, to wit, the Duke of Somerset, Edward Seymour, and the Duke of Northumberland, john Dudley. Of whom hereafter. Here lieth Henry Southworth, Hen. Southworth. borne at Halton Castle, in the Parish of Runkorne in Cheshire, Yeoman of the Crown, and of the Guard, to king Henry the seventh, and Henry the eight, Yeoman Bawier, and Surveiour in the Tower of London for the space of 33. years. Who died ....... Here lieth Gefferay Hewyt, Geff. Hewet & joan his wife. and jone his wife, one of the Gonners in the Tower. ... jone died ... 1525. There are some other Inscriptions in this Chapel, but they are of late times. Burials of the dead in the fields, near to the City of London. These burials in the fields might better have been spoken of, in my prefixed discourse, where I write of the strange custom of interring, and preserving of the bodies of the dead. But being forgotten there, it will not be amiss (I hope) that they may be remembered here. In the fields on the North-East and East side of the suburbs, In Mi●lesex. whiles I was writing these matters (saith Camden) there were gotten out of the ground many urns, funeral vessels, little Images, and earthen pots, wherein were small pieces of money coined by Claudius, Nero, Vespasian, etc. Glass vials also, and sundry small earthen vessels, wherein some liquid substance remained, which I would think to be either of that sacred oblation of wine and milk, which the ancient Romans used when they burned the dead, or else those odoriferous liquors that Statius mentioneth. Pharijque liquores Arsuram lavere Comam. And liquid baulmes from Egypt-land that came Did wash his hair that ready was for flame. This place the Romans appointed to burn and bury dead bodies, who according to the law of the twelve tables carried corpses out of their Cities, and interred them by the highways side, to put passengers in mind that they are, as those were, subject to mortality. Stow speaks more fully of these, Survey in Bishopsgateward. and other kinds of funeral Monuments, found here in the fields. About the year 1576. saith he, Lolesworth-field, now called Spittle-field, was broken up for clay to make Brick. In the digging whereof, many earthen pots, called Vrnae, were found full of Ashes, and burnt bones of men, to wit, of the Romans, that inhabited here. For it was the custom of the Romans, to burn their dead, to put their Ashes in an Urn, and then bury the same with certain ceremonies, in some field appointed for that purpose, near unto their City. Every of these pots had in them (with the ashes of the dead) one piece of Copper-money, with the inscription of the Emperor then reigning; some of them were of Claudius, some of Vespasian, some of Nero, some of Antonius Pius, of Traiane, and others. Besides those urns, many other pots were found in the same place, made of a white earth, with long necks and handles, like to our stone jugs: these were empty, but seemed to be buried full of some liquid matter, long since consumed and soaked through. For there were found diverse vials, and other fashioned Glasses, some most cunningly wrought, such as I have not seen the like, and some of Crystal, all which had water in them, nothing differing in clearness, taste, or savour, from common spring water, whatsoever it was at the first. Some of these Glasses had oil in them very thick, and earthy in savour. Some were supposed to have Balm in them, but had lost the virtue: Many of these pots and Glasses were broken in cutting of the clay, so that few were taken up whole. There were also found diverse Dishes and Cups, of a fine re●de coloured earth, which showed outwardly such a shining smoothness, as if they had been of coral. Those had (in the bottoms) Roman letters printed; There were also Lamps of white earth and red, artificially wrought with diverse Antiques; about them, some three or four Images, made of white earth, about a span long each of them. One, I remember, was of Pallas, the rest I have forgotten. I myself have reserved (amongst diverse of those Antiquities there) one urn, with the ashes and bones, and one pot of white earth very small, not exceeding the quantity of a wine pint, made in shape of a Hare squatted upon her legs, and between her ears is the mouth of the pot. There hath also been found (in the same field) diverse coffins of stone, containing the bones of men: these I suppose to be the burials of some special persons, in time of the Britons, or Saxons. Moreover, there were also found the sculls and bones of men without coffins, or rather whose coffins (being of great timber) were consumed. diverse great Nails of Iron were there found, such as are used in the wheels of shod carts, being each of them as big as a man's finger, and a quarter of a yard, the heads two inches over. Those Nails were more wondered at then the rest of the things there found; and many opinions of men were there uttered of them; namely that the men there buried, were murdered by driving those Nails into their heads, a thing unlikely: for a smaller Nail would more aptly serve to so bad a purpose; and a more secret place would lightly be employed for such burial. But to set down what I observed concerning this matter, I there beheld the bones of a man lying (as I noted) the head North, the feet South, and round about him (as thwart his head, along both his sides, and thwart his feet) such Nails were found. Wherefore I conjectured them to be Nails of his coffin. Which had been a trough, cut out of some great tree, and the same covered with a plank of a great thickness, fastened with such Nails, and therefore I caused some of the Nails to be reached up to 〈◊〉 found under the broad heads of them, the old wood, ●eane turned into earth▪ but still retaining both the grain and proper colour. Of these Nails (with the wood under the head thereof) I reserved one, as also the 〈◊〉- bone of the man, the teeth being great, sound, and fixed, which (amongst many other Monuments there found) I have yet to show: but the nail lying dry, is by scaling greatly wasted. And thus much of ancient Funeral Monuments in the fields. Certain Burials of British Kings in and about London, the places of their interments uncertain. And first to begin with Guentoline, the son of Gurgunstus, King of Britain, who flourished about the year of the world, 3614. Who was a wise Prince, grave in counsel, and sober in behaviour, and studied, with great care and diligence, to reform anew, and to adorn with justice, laws, and good orders, the British commonwealth; by other Kings not so framed as stood with the greatness thereof. But as he was busy in hand herewith, death took him away from these worldly employments, when he had reigned 27. years. He had a wife named Martia Proba, a woman of perfect beauty, and wisdom incomparable, as by her prudent government, and equal administration of justice, after her husband's decease, during her son's minority, it most manifestly appeared. She was a woman expert and skilful in diverse sciences, but chiefly, being admitted to the government of the Realm, she studied to preserve the common wealth in good, quiet, and decent order; and therefore devised, established, and writ a book in the British tongue of profitable and convenient Laws, the which after her name were called Martian Laws. These Laws afterwards Gildas Cambrius, the Historical Welsh Poet, translated into Latin: and a long time after him, Alured, King of the West Saxons, holding these laws necessary for the preservation of the common wealth, put them into English Saxon speech, and then they were called after that translation, Marchenclagh, that is to mean, the Laws of Martia; adding thereunto a Book of his own writing of the Laws of England, which he called, A certain Breviarie extracted out of diverse Laws of the Troyans', Grecians, Britain's, Saxons, and Danes. She flourished before the birth of our Lord and Saviour, 348. years, or thereabouts. Her son's name was Sicilius, Sicilius king of Britain. who upon the death of his Father was but young: for I read that Martia his mother, delivered up the government of the kingdom to her son when he came to lawful age, which she had right politicly guided, and highly for her perpetual renown and commendation, the space of fourteen years. He died when he had reigned seven years, some say fifteen years. Of Bladud, king of Britain, the son of Lud hurdibras, many incredible passages are delivered by our old British writers, and followed by sundry Authors of succeeding ages, which say, that he was so well seen in the Sciences of Astronomy and Necromancy, that thereby he made the hot springs in the City of Bathe: that he built the City of Bathe: that he went to Athens and brought with him four Philosophers, and by them instituted an University at Stanford in Lincolnshire. And further to show his Art and cunning, that he took upon him to fly into the air; and that he broke his neck by a fall from the Temple of Apollo in Troynovant, before the incarnation of Christ 852. years, in the twentieth year of his reign. Geffrey of Monmouth, and Matthew of Westminster would approve as much as here is spoken of him; Song 3. And learned Selden in his Illustrations upon Draytons' Polyolbion, sets down an ancient fragment of rhymes, wherein these strange things of him are expressed. Cap 25. But of him here in this place, will it please you take a piece out of Harding, and you shall have more hereafter. Bladud his son after him did succeed, And reigned after then full xx. year, Cair Bladud so that now is Bath I read, He made anon the hot baths there infere When at Athens he had studied clear He brought with him iiii Philosophers wise School to hold in Britain and exercise. Stanforde he made that Stanforde hight this day In which he made an Vniversitee, His Philosophers, as Merlin doth say Had scholars feel of great hability, Studing ever alway in unity, In all the seven liberal science, For to purchase wisdom and sapience▪ In Cair Bladim he made a temple right And set a Flamyne therein to govern, And afterward a * a man decked in feathers. Fetherham he dight, To fly with wings, as he could best discern, Above the air nothing him to werne, He flyed on high to the temple Apoline, And there broke his neck for all his great doctrine. Vo●t●mer king of Britain. Likewise the uncertain burial of Vortimer, that victorious British king, was in some part of this City; he was the eldest son of Vortigern king of the Britain's, and reigned as king in his father's days; who demeaned himself towards his son, than his Sovereign, in all dutiful obedience and faithful counsel; for the space of four years, even until Vortimer was poisoned by the subtlety of Rowena the heathen, daughter of Hengist the Saxon, the wife or concubine of his Brother, and the mother of the Britain's mischief, which happened about the year of Grace 464. Speed. Hist. cap. 12. This Vortimer was a man of great valour, which altogether he employed for the redress of his country, according to the testimony of William Malmesbury, whose words are these. Vortimer (saith he) thinking not good to dissemble the matter, for that he saw himself and country daily surprised by the craft of the Saxons, set his full purpose to drive them out, and from the seventh year after their first entrance, for twenty years' continuance, fought many battles with them, and four of them with great puissance in the open field; in the first whereof, they departed with like fortune, and loss of the General's brethren Horsa and Latigern: in the other three, the Britain's went away with victory, and so long, until Vortimer was taken away by fatal death. It is recorded of him, Sigibert. that after he had vanquished the Saxons, and dispossessed them of all their footing in the Continent, yea, and often assailed them in the Isle of Tannet: the Church of Christianity being ruinated by the Pagan marriage of Rowena with his Brother, as aforesaid, that he restored the Christian Religion, as then sorely decayed, and new built the Churches that his enemies, the misbelieving Saxons had destroyed. It is also reported by Nennius of Bangor, in the history of his country, that after his last victory over the Saxons, he caused his monument to be erected at the entrance into Tanet, and in the same place of that great overthrow, which by the said Author, is called Lapis Tituli, of us the Stonar; where for certain, it seems, hath been an haven. In this monument, he commanded his body to be buried, to the further terror of the Saxons, that in beholding this his Trophy, their spirits might be daunted at the remembrance of their great overthrow. As Scipio Africanus conceited the like, who commanded his Sepulchre to be so set, that it might overlook Africa, supposing that his very Tomb would be a terror to the Carthaginians. But how that desire of Vortimer was performed, I Speed Hist. ca xi. I find not, saith a late writer: but rather the contrary; for an old Manuscript I have, that confidently affirmeth him to be buried in London, which agreeth with these old Rhymes of my reverend Monk of Gloucester. Rob Glocest. Aftur his death he bad anon his body yat * men taken. me nome, And bury hit at an havene where ye heathen men up come, In a Tomb swithe an heigh yat me might hit far ice, That * they. hii for dread of yat sight again hom should i'll. Hare was heart to hem when he would hit had dread of his body deed as they alive had. There was deol and Sorwe enough, though this man was ded, As nevertheless me buried him nought there as yat he * commanded. k For hit was but of a will, as hiis hem bethoughte In London with great honour that body an earth brought. Harding hath it thus. Ca 68 In a pillar of brass he laid on height, At the gate where Saxons had landed afore, He bade his men for also far as he might Him see, he trust they would not near come thore But nevertheless they letted not therefore, But buried him at Troynovant city, As he them bade with all solemnity, The uncertain burial of Edward and Richard, the sons of King Edward the fourth. Edward, the eldest son of King Edward the fourth, by Queen Elizabeth his wife, say our English Writers, was borne in the Sanctuary at Westminster, Videses Speed. Hist. ca 17. and Vincent Catal. Chest●r. the fourth of November, and year of grace, 1470. being the tenth of his father's reign, at that time expulsed the Realm by the powerful Earl of Warwick; but fortune being changed, and the father restored, the son in july following, the six and twentieth day, 1471. was created Prince of Wales, and Earl of Chester; and afterwards upon the eight of july, in the 19 year of his said father's reign, he was by Letters Patents, dated at Esthamsted, further honoured with the Earldoms of Penbroke and March. He was proclaimed King, but never crowned, yet had not the ambitious hand of his Uncle been defiled in his innocent blood, he might have worn the Diadem many years, whereas he bore the title of King no longer than two months and eighteen days. Richard, surnamed of Shrewsbury, because he was there borne, the second son of Edward the fourth, by his wife Elizabeth, as aforesaid, was affianced in his infancy, to Anne the only daughter and heir of john Lord Mowbray Duke of Norfolk; he was honoured by the titles of Duke of Norfolk, Earl Warren, Earl Martial, and Nottingham; also Lord Baron of Mowbray, Segraue, and of Gower, as Milles will have it; Mill. Catal. York. but enjoying neither wife, title, or his own life long, was with his brother, murdered in the Tower of London, and in the prison of that Tower, which, upon that most sinful deed, is ever since called the bloody Tower, their bodies as yet unknown where to have burial. The story of whose death, and supposed interment, extracted out of authentical Authors, is thus delivered by john Speed. Speed Hist. ● ●● Prince Edward and his brother (saith he) were both shut up in the Tower, and all attendants removed from them, only one called Blacke-Will, or William Slaughter excepted, who was set to serve them, and to see them sure. After which time the Prince never tied his points, nor cared for himself, but with that young Babe his brother, lingered with thought and heaviness, till their traitorous deaths delivered them out of that wretchedness: for the execution whereof, Sir james Tirrill appointed Miles Forrest, a fellow fleshed in murder before time: to whom he joined one john Dighton his horsekeeper, a big, broad, square knave. About midnight (all others being removed from them) this Miles Forest, and john Dighton, came into the Chamber, and suddenly wrapped up the silly children in the Bedclothes where they lay, keeping, by force, the featherbed and pillows hard upon their mouths, that they were therein smothered to death, and gave up to God their innocent souls, into the joys of heaven, leaving their bodies unto the Tormentors, dead in the bed▪ which after these monstrous wretches perceived, first by the struggling with the pains of death, and after long lying still to be thoroughly dispatched, they laid their bodies naked out upon the bed, and then fetched Sir james Tirrill their instigator, to see them, who caused these murderers to bury them at the stair's foot, somewhat deep in the ground, under a great heap of stones. Then ro●e Sir james in haste to the King, unto whom he showed the manner of their death, and place of burial; which news was so welcome to his wicked heart, as he greatly rejoiced, and with great thanks dubbed (as some hold) this his merciless Instrument, Knight. But the place of their burial he liked not, saying, that vile corner should not contain the bodies of those Princes, his Nephews, and commanded them a better place for burial, because they were the Sons of a King. Whereupon the Priest of the Tower took up their bodies, and secretly interred them in such a place, which by the occasion of his death, could never since come to light. The continuer of john Harding tells us from the report of others, that King Richard caused Sir Robert Brakenburies' Priest to close their dead corpses in lead, and so to put them in a coffin full of holes, and hooked at the ends with two hooks of iron, and so to cast them into a place called the Black deeps at the Thames mouth, whereby they should never rise up, or be any more seen. To which effect I have seen their Epitaph written by Thomas Stanley, Bishop of Man, Parson of Winwicke, and Wigan in Lancashire, who flourished in the several reigns of King Henry the eight, Edward the sixth, Queen Mary, and Queen Elizabeth▪ thus it runs in his Lancashire rhymes. In London's Tower in one please or another Interryd lay King Edward and his Brother, Who by there wicked * uncle Eme were guyltles slay, And basely beryd, yet took up again And cast into the black deeps at Thames mouth. Now whether wrecked, or tossed from North to South, Their relics are, it recks not; their soul's rest In heaven amangst Gods children ever blessed. They weren murdered in july, 1483. Edward being thirteen years old, and Richard about some two years younger. The just judgement of God severely revenged the murder of these innocent Princes upon the malefactors. For first to begin with the Ministers; Miles Forest at Saint martin's, piecemeal rotten away; Sir james Tirril● died at Tower hill for treason committed against Henry the seventh; Dighton indeed (saith my Author, The Continuer of Hardings' Chronicle. who lived in those times) walketh on alive, in good possibility to be hanged ere he die, living at Calleis, no less distained and hated, then pointed at of all. King Richard himself was slain in the field, hacked and hewed of his enemy's hands, harried on a horse back naked, being dead, his hair in despite torn and tugged like a cur dog. And the mischief that he took, was within less than three years of the mischief that he did, and yet all the mean time spent in much pain and trouble outward, and much fear, anguish, and sorrow within. For I have heard by credible report of his Chamberlain, The guilty conscience of King Richard that after this abominable deed done, he never was quiet in his mind: he never thought himself sure, for where he went abroad, his eyes ever whirled about, his body was privily fenced, his hand was ever on his dagger, his countenance and manner was like one ever ready to strike again; he took ill rest a nights, lay long waking and musing, sore wearied with care and watch, rather slumbered, then slept, troubled with fearful dreams, suddenly some times start up, leapt out of his bed, and ran about the chambers; so was his restless heart continually tossed and tumbled, with the tedious impression and stormy remembrance of his execrable murders. Persius makes an imprecation to jupiter, that he would punish Kings, committing such horrid actions, with this horror of conscience, thus. Pers. Sat. 3. trans. by ●erten Holiday. Great Father of the gods: when cruel lust, Touched with inflaming venom, moves th' unjust Corrupted disposition of fierce Kings, To act unworthy and unkingly things: Punish them only thus. Let them but see Fair virtue, and their lost felicity. Then shall their bowels yearn, and they shall cry In secret, and wax pale, and pine, and die. But here enough of King Richard, until I come to Leicester, and there to the place of his burial. Chelsey. Sir Thomas Moor Lord Chancellor. On the south side of the Choir of this Church, under a plain Monument, lieth the body of Sir Thomas More, Lord Chancellor of England, beheaded on the Tower hill, for denying of the King's Supremacy, the sixth of july, 1535. Over his Tomb is an Inscription upon the wall, made by himself, a little after he gave over his Office of being Chancellor, now hardly to be read. Thomas Morus urbe Londinensi, familia non celebri, sed honesta natus, in literis utcumque versatus, quum & causas aliquot Iwenis egisset in for●, et in urbe sua pro Shyre●o ius dixisset, ab invictissimo Rege Henrico viii. (cui uni Regum omnium gloria prius inaudita contigit, ut Fidei defensor qualem et gladio et calamo se vere prestitit, merito vocaretur) adscitus in Aulam est, delectusque in concilium, et creatus Eques, Proquestor primum, post cancellarius lancaster, tandem Anglie miro principis favore factus est. Sed interim in publico Regni Senatu lectus est Orator Populi, preterea Legatus Regis nonnunquam fuit, alias alibi, postremo vero Cameraci, comes & collega iunctus principi Legationis Cuthberto Tunstallo tum Londinensi, mox Dunelmensi Episcopo, quo viro vix habet orbis hodie quicquam eruditius, prudentius, melius. Ibi inter summos Christiani orbis Monarchas rursus refecta federa, redditamque mundo diu desideratam pacem, et letissimus vidit, et Legatus intersuit. Quam superi Pacem firment, faxint que perennem. In hoc officiorum vel honorum cursu quum ita versaretur, ut neque Princeps optimus operam eius improbaret, neque nobilibus esset invisus, neque iniucundus populo; furibus autem, Homicidis Hereticisque molestus: Pater eius tandem joannes Morus Eques, Sir john More the father of Sir Thomas, his death. & in eum judicum ordinem a Principe cooptatus qui Regius Confessus vocatur, homo civilis, innocens, mitis, misericors, eq●us & integer, annis quidem gravis, sed corpore plusquam pro etate vivido, postquam eo productam sibi vidit vitam, ut filium videret Anglie Cancellarium, satis in terra iam se moratum ratus lubens migravit in celum. At filius defuncto patre, cui, quamdiu superarat, comparatus, & invenis & ipse quoque sibi videbatur, amissam iam Patrem requirens & editos ex se liberos quatuor, ac nepotes undecim respiciens apud animum suum cepit persenescere. Auxit hunc affectum animi, subsecuta velut adpetentis sen●● signum, pectoris valetudo deterior. Itaque mortalium harum rerum satur, quam rem à puero semper optaverat, ut ultimos vite sue annos obtineret liberos, quibus hu●us vite negotijs paulatim se subducens, futuram posset immortalitatem meditari, eam rem tandem (sic ceptis annuat Deus) indulgentissimi Principis incomparabili beneficio resignatis honoribus impetravit. Atque hoc Sepulchrum sibi, quod mortis eam nunquam cessantis adrepere commonefaceret, translatis huc prioris uxa ris ossibus, extruendum curavit. Quod ne superstes frustra sibi secerit, neve ingruentem trepidus horreat, sed desiderio Christi lubens oppetat, mortemque ut sibi non omnino mortem, sed tanuam vite felicioris inveniat, precibus eum, Lector optime, spirantem, precor, defunctumque prosequere. Sir Thomas More, having removed the body of his first wife joan to this place intended for his own burial, composed this Epitaph to her memory; which I have read. Clara Thome iacet hic Ioanna uxorcula Mori, joan and Alice the wives of Sir Tho. Mor●. in bib. Cot. Qui tumulum Alicie hunc destino quoque tibi. una mihi dedit hoc coniuncta virentibus unnis Me vocet ut puer, & trina puella Patrem. Altera privignis (que gloria rara Noverce est) Tam pia quam gnatis vix fuit ulla suis. Altera sic mecum vixit, sic altera vivit, Charior incertum est, hec sit an hec fuerit. O simul, O iuncti poteramus vivere nos tros Quam bene si factum Religioque sinant. Et societ tumulus, societ nos obsecro celum, Sic mors non potuit quod dare vita dabit. The Character of this ingenious and learned Lord Chancellor is delivered at large by all our late English Historiographers, as also by many foreign writers. To whom, and to that which I have spoken of him before, I refer my Reader. Of your charity pray for the soul of Edward Bray, Edmund Lord Bray. knight, Lord Bray, cousin and heir to Sir Reignold Bray, knight of the Garter ...... His brother Reignold Bray Esquire, lieth buried by him, but their Monuments are so defaced, that I can find no further remembrance, neither of their lives, nor of the time of their death. Kensington. Maud Berford. Maud de Berford gist icy, Deiu de spalme eit mercy▪ Amen. Philip Meawtis. Here undyr lieth Phelip Meawtis, the son and heir of john Meawtis, one of ye Secretaryes to the kings, Hen. the seventh, and Hen. the eight; Clerk of his Counsel, and one of the knights of Wyndsor. Which Phelip deceased the eight of Novembre. M. D. X. on whoes soul jesus have mercy. Amen. Ric. Scardebrugh and Elis. his wife. Hic iacent Robertus Rote & Elisab ........ Richardus Scardebrugh & Elisabetha uxor eius, ac Robertus Scardebrugh filius eorundem Richardi et Elisabethe, qui quidem Richardus obiji xi. die Decemb. M. CCCC.liij. quorum animabus propitietur Altissimus. Adwin Laverocke. Here lies Adwin Laverocke of Calis, Cousin to john Mewtas of Kensington, and the French Secretary to King Henry the seventh. Which deceased, on saint Stephen's day. M. CCCC.lxxxxiii. on whose soul God have mercy. Amen. In the worship of God and our Lady Say for all christian souls a Pater Noster and an Avie. Tho. Essex. Hic iacet Thomas Essex Armiger filius & heres Gulielmi Essex Armigeri, Rememoratoris Domini Regis Edwardi quarti in Scaccario, ac Vice thesarar. Anglie, qui obijt 10. novemb. 1500. Que sola virgineo nata laudamus honore, Me protegens, Nato fundito vota tuo. The office of Remembrancers. D. cowel. lic. R. Of the Office of Remembrancers, whereof William the father of this Thomas Essex here entombed, was one and the chief: give me leave to speak a little out of the Interpreter. Remembrancers of the Exchequer (Rememoratores) be three Officers or Clerks. One called the King's Remembrancer, Ann. 35. Eli. cap. 5. The other the Lord Treasurer's Remembrancer. Upon whose charge it seemeth to lie, that they put all justices of that Court, as the Lord Treasurer, and the rest, in remembrance of such things as are to be called on, and dealt in for the Prince's behoof. The third is called the Remembrancer of the first-fruits. Of these you may read something, Ann. 5. Ric. 2. Stat. 1. cap. 14. and 15. to the effect above specified. These An 37. Ed. 3. cap. 4. be called Clerks of the Remembrance. It seemeth that the name of the Officer is borrowed from the Civilians, who have their Memoriales, qui sunt notarij Cancellariae in regno subiecti officio Quaestoris. Lucas de Penna. C. lib. 10 tit. 12. num. 7. The King's Remembrancer. The King's Remembrancer entereth into his Office all Recognizances, taken before the Barons for any the King's debts, for apparences, or for observing of orders. He taketh all bonds for any of the King's debts, or for appearance, or for observing of orders, and maketh process upon them for the breach of them. He writeth process against the Collectors of Customs, Subsedies, and Fiveteenths for their accounts. All informations upon penal Statutes are entered in his Office. And all matters upon English Bills in the Exchequer Chamber are remaining in his Office. He maketh the Bills of compositions upon penal Laws, taketh the stalments debts, maketh a Record of a Certificate delivered to him by the Clerks of the Star-chamber of the Fines there set, and sendeth them to the Pipe. He hath delivered to his Office all manner of Indentures, fines, and other Evidences whatsoever, that concern the assuring of any lands to the Crown. He yearly, in Crastino Animarum, readeth in open Court the Statute for election of Sheriffs, and giveth those that choose them their oath. He readeth in open Court the oath of all the Officers of the Court, when they are admitted. The Treasurer's Remembrancer maketh Process against all Sheriffs, The Treasurer's Remembrancer. Escheators, Receivers, and Bailiffs, for their accounts. He maketh Process of Fieri Facias, and extent for any debts due to the King, either in the Pipe, or with the Auditors. He maketh Process for all such revenue as is due to the King by reason of his tenors. He maketh a Record, whereby it appeareth whether Sheriffs and other accountants keep their days of prefixion. All extreats of fines, issues, and amerciaments set in any Courts of Westminster, or at the Assizes, or Sessions, are certified into his Office; and are by him delivered to the Clerk of Extreats to write Process upon them. He hath also brought into his Office all the accounts of Customers, controulers, and other accomptants, to make thereof an entry of Record. The Remembrancer of the first-fruits taketh all Compositions for first-fruits and Tenths; Remembrancer of the first-fruits. and maketh Process against such as pay not the same. Now to return; these Essexes' were Lords of this Town (as I have it by relation) which Town, at this day, is much honoured by the Lord thereof, that noble Gentleman, Sir Henry Rich, Captain of his Majesty's Guard, and knight of the Garter, Baron Kensington of Kensington, Earl of Holland, and one of his Majesty's most honourable privy Counsel. Fulham. Hic iacet johannes Fischer, Io. Fisher. quondam Thesaurarius Domini Cardinalis Sancte Balbine, et postea Hostiensis et Cantuariensis Archiepiscopi, qui obijt 27. Aug. 1463. Here lieth buried the body of Sir Ralph Butts knight, Sir Ralph But● knight. and Physician to our Sovereign Lord Henry the viii. Who deceased 1545. on whose sowl. Quid Medicina valet, quid honos, quid gratia Regum? Quid popularis amor mors ubi seva venit? Sola valet Pietas, que structa est auspice Christo, Sola in morte valet; cetera cuncta fluunt. Ergo mihi in vita fuerit quando omnia Christus; Mors mihi nunc lucrum vitaque Christus erit. Pray for the sowls of john Long gentleman, john Long, Katherine, & Alice his wives. Katherine and Alice his wyfs. Who died the x. of March, on thousand fyve hundryd and three. On whose sowls and all Christian sowls jesus have mercy. Fili redemptor mundi Deus miserere nobis. Sancta Trinitas unus Deus miserere nobis. Spiritus Sanctus Deus miserere nobis. Io. Sherburne. Hic iacet johannes Sherburne Bachalaureus utriusque Legis, quondam Archidiaconus Essex: qui ob. 1434. Sir Samson Norton, and Elis. his wife. Of your charity pray for the soul of Sir Samson Norton knight, late Master of the Ordinance of war with king Henry the eight, and for the soul of Dame Elysabyth his wyff. Which Sir Samson deceased the eight day of February on thousand fyve hundryd and seventeen. Master of the Ordnance. Master of the ordnance or Artillery is a great Officer, to whose care all the King's ordnance and Artillery is committed: and most commonly that Office is executed by some eminent great man of the kingdom. His fee is 151. l. 11. s. 8. d. per annum. Io. Thorley. Orate pro anima johannis Thorley Armigeri, qui obiit penultimo die men. Febr. Ann. Dom. 1445 ..... Will. Harvey. Hic iacet Magister Willelmus Harvy nuper vicarius istius Ecclesie qui ob. 5. die novemb. 1471 ..... George Chauncy. Hic iacet Georgius Chauncy quondam Receptor generalis Reverendi Patris Domini Ric. Fitz-Iames London Episcopi, qui obiit decimo nono die Decembris, Ann. Dom. 1520. Mar. Suanden. Hic iacet Domicilla Margareta Suanden not. Gandavii Flandrii, que ex Magistro Gerardo Hornebolt Gandavensi Pretori nominatissmo peperit Domicillam Susannam uxorem johannis Parker * Arcuarij, the King's Bowyer. Arch. Regis, que obiit Ann. Dom. 1529. 26. Novembris. Anne Sturton. Hic iacet Anna Sturton filia johannis Sturton Domini de Sturton, & Domine Katherine uxoris eius. Que quidem Anna obiit in Assumptionem beat Marie Virgins, Ann. Dom. 1533. Lora Blunt. Hic iacet Lora filia johannis Blount militis Domini Mountioy, & Lore uxoris eius, que obiit 6. die mens. Febr. Ann. Dom. 1480. Cuius anime Deus sis propitius. Lora is a name derived from the Saxon word Lore, which signifies learning or understanding. A word often used by Chaucer in that sense to express learning. As in the Squires Prologue: I see well that ye learned men in lore Can muckle good. Or as Camden doth conjecture, a name corrupted from Laura, which is Bay, and is agreeable to the Greek name Daphne. Cheswicke. Mawde Lady Salueyne. Orate pro anima Mathildis Salueyne uxoris Richardi Salueyne Militis Thesaurar. Eccls ..... que ob. 1432. Will. Boydale. Hic iacet Will. Boydale principalis vicarius huius Ecclesie, et fundator Campanilis eiusdem, qui ob. 15. Octob. 1435. Braineforde. Christopher Carhill king at Arms. Here lieth the body of Christopher Carhill, alias Norrey, king at Arms, who died ...... 1510. Hen. Redman & jone his wife. Here lieth Henry Redmane and jone his wife .... 1528. Ric. Parker and Marg. his wife. Here lieth Richard Parker servant in the Botre to Henry the seventh, and Hen. the eight, and Margery his wife late .... to the Lady mary's Grace ...... daughter to king Henry the eight, by Katherine his first wife daughter of Ferdinando the sixth king of Spain. Which Richard died ..... 1545. Hic iacet Wilielmus Clavel, William Clavell. Agnes, et Clementia ux: eius: qui quidem Wilielmus obijt 1496. The Monastery of Zion. So named of the most holy Mount Zion, The foundation of Zion. which King Henry the fifth, when he had expelled thence the Monks Aliens, built for religious Virgins, to the honour of our Saviour, the Virgin Mary, and Saint Bridget of Zion: Nuns and Priests Augustine's. In which house he appointed to the glory of God, so many Nuns, Priests, and lay Brethren, as were in number equal to Christ his Apostles and Disciples; namely of Virgin's sixty, Priests thirteen, Deans four, and lay Brethren eight. These two Covents had but one Church in common, the Nuns had their Church aloft in the roof, and the brethren beneath upon the ground; each Covent severally enclosed, and never allowed to come out, except by the Pope's special licence. Upon whom when this godly and glorious King had bestowed sufficient living (taken from the Priories Aliens, all which he utterly suppressed) he provided by a law, that contenting themselves therewith, they should take no more of any man, but what overplus soever remained of their yearly revenue, they should bestow it upon the poor. Their comings in were valued at the suppression, to be worth 1944 l. 11 s. 8 d. q. by year. A Lettore certefyinge the incontynensye of the Nuns of Zion with the Friores, and after the act done, the Friores reconsile them to God. Endorsed. To the right honourable, Master Thomas Cromwell, chief Secretary to the Kings' highness. It may please your goodness to understand that Bushope this day preached and declared the Kings tytelle very well, Ex lit. in Bib. S. Dewes. and had a great Audyense, the Chorche full of people, one of the Focaces in his said declaration, openly called him false knave, with other foolish words, it was that foolish fellow with the corled head that kneeled in your way when you came forth of the Confessores Chamber. I can no less do, but set him in prison, ut pena eius sit metus alioram: yesterday I learned many enormeous things against Bushope, in the examination of the lay Brederens; first that Bushop persuaded tow of the Brederene to have gone their ways by night, and he himself with them, and to the accomplishment of that, they lacked but money to buy them seculere apparel: Forther, that Bushope would have persuaded one of his lay Brederen a Smithe, to have made a keaye for the door, to have in the night time received in Wenches for him and his fellows, and specially a wife of Vxebridge, now dwelling not far from the old Lady Derby, nigh Uxbridge: which wife his old customer hath been many times here at the grates communing with the said, and ●e was desirous to have her convoyed in to him. The said Bushope also persuaded a Nun, to whom he was Confessor, Ad libidinem corporis perimplend. And thus he persuaded her in Confession, making her believe, that whensoever, and as oft as they should meddle together, if she were, immediately after, confessed by him, and took of him absolution, she should be clear forgiven of God, and it should be none offence unto her before God. And she writ diveres and sundry lettores unto him of such their foolishness and vnthri●tynesse, and would have had his Brother the Smith to have polled out a bar of iron of that window, whereas ye examined the Lady Abbas, that he might have gone in to her by night. And that same window was their commoning place by night. He persuaded the Sextene that he would be in his contemplation in the Chorche by night, and by that means was many nights in the Chorche talking with her at the said grate of the Nun's Choir, and there was their meeting place by night, besides their day communications, as in confession: it were too long to declare all things of him that I have hard, which I suppos is true. This afternoon I intent to make further serche, both of some of the Brederens, and some also of the Sisters for such like matteres; if I found any thing apparent to be true, I shall God willing thereof sertefy your Mastorshipe to morrow, by seven in the morning. And aftor this day I suppos there will be no other things to be known as yet here; for I have already examined all the Brederen, and many of them would gladly depart hense, and be right weary of their habbyte: such Religion and feigned sancterye, God save me fro. If Master Bedle had been here a Frior, and of Bushopes Counsel, he would right well have helped him to have broghte his mattores to pass▪ without breaking up of any grate or yet counterfeiting of keayes, such capassetye God hath sent him. From Syone this sunday xii. Decembere. By the speedy hand of your assured poor Priest, Richard Layton. Ecclesia omnium Angetorum. Not far from hence, was a fraternity founded by john Somerset, Chancellor of the Exchequer, and the King's Chaplain, which he called Ecclesia omnium Angelorum. Thistleworth. Al you that doth this Epitaph read or see, Antony Sutton. Of your mere goodness, and great charity, Prey for the sowl of Master Antony Sutton, Bacher of Divinity, Who died in secundo die Augusti, Annoque Domini, M. ccccc.xl. and three. Hen●y Archer. Orate pro anima Henrici Archer, qui obijt 2 die Septemb. Anno Domini 480. cuius anime. ..... If the date of this Inscription were true, this Archer did line in the reign of Lucius, the first Christian King of this Monarchy, but questionless, this was the oversight of him which inlaid the monument, leaving out the figure of one, which might have made it right, 1480. Here lieth john Robinson, With his wyfs Katherine and jone, Io Robinson, Katherine and joan his wives. Who died M. ccccc. and three: On whose sowls jesus have mercy. Hic iacet Clemens Colyns de Isleworth Vicarius, Clement C●lyns utriusque iuris Doctor. qui obijt, 1498. Prey for the sowls of john Holt, Io. Holt, Margery and Elizab●th his wives. Margery, and Elizabeth his wyffs, and for the sowls of all his children, who died Anno Dom. 1520. In the year of our Lord God, M. ccccc. the fourth day of December, Margery to God her sowl she did surrender; jesus full of mercy, on her sowl have mercy, For in thy mercy she trusted fully. Pray for the sowl of Audery the wife of Gedeon Aundesham, Audrie Aundesham. who died, 1502. Here lieth john Sampol yeoman, Io. Sampoll. Usher of the King's Chamber, who died the year 1535. Sampoll anciently called Saint Paul, a family of which name flourished at Melwood in Lincolnshire, of which hereafter. Hic. Dominus johannes pain Vicarius ..... 1470. Sir Io. pain Priest▪ Quisquis eris, qui transieris, sta, perlege, plora▪ Sum quod eris, fueram quod es, pro me precor ora. Hownslow Chapel. Which belonged sometime to a Friary thereunto adjoining, The Friary of Hounslow▪ now a Chapel of ease for the Inhabitants, which are of two parishes, Heston, and Thistleworth: by whom this fraternity was founded, I cannot learn, except by the Windsores, a family of many descents, ever since the coming in of the Norman Conqueror, who had their habitation at Stanwell, not far off; and chose this Friar's Chapel for their place of burial; which, together with the house, was, after the dissolution, given by exchange, to the Lord Windsor, by King Henry the eight. Orate pro animabus Georgij Windsore filij Andree Windsor de Stanwell militis: George Windsor et Vrsule uxoris eius .......... suorum et heredis apparentis .... johannis comitis Oxonie ..... Orate pro anima Willelmi jacob qui dedit unam clausuram vocatam Bushiheme ad inveniendam unam Lampadem ....... qui ob ..... 1478. William jacob. Vermibus hic donor et sic ostendere conor Qualiter hic ponor ponitur omnis honour. Quisquis ades, tu morte cades, sta, respice plora Sum quod eris, quod es ipse fui pro me precor ora. Under the picture of the blessed Virgin, these verses following were depainted, now almost quite worn out. Virgins intacte cum veneris ante figuram, Pretereundo cave ne fileatur Aue. Stanes. Stanes Priory. Here sometimes stood a Priory, founded by Ralph, Lord Stafford, some of which family (as noble and ancient as any) lie here interred, namely, Nicholas, Baron Stafford, who died 10. Kal. novemb. 1288. as I have it out of an old Manuscript. Ex Lib. Abbat. de Croxden in Bib Cotton. Obijt Nicholaus Baro Stafford, 1288. et 10. Kalend Novembris, apud Stanes sepultus est. Hellingdon great. In this Church lieth buried under a Tomb, covered with a marble stone, john Lord Strange of Knocking, upon which this Inscription is engraven. john Lord S●●ange. Sub hac Tumba iacet nobilis Iohannes Dominus le Strange, Dominus de Knocking, Mahun, Wasset, Warnell et Lacie, et Dominus de Colham, una cum pictura jagnette, quondam uxoris sue, que quidem jagnetta suit s●ror Elizabethe Regine Anglie, quondam uxoris Regis Edwardi quarii, qui quidem Iohannes obijt 15 die Octobris, Anno regni Regis Ed. quarti 17 quam quidem Tumbam johanna Dominale Strange, una cum pictura lagnette ex sumptibus suis proprijs fieri fecit, 1509. Camd. in Shrop. This race of le Strange, continued for many descents in the dignity of Lord Barons, in latin Records, called Extranei, for that they were Strangers, brought hither by King Henry the second, the year 1148. This john Lord Strange, here entombed, was the last of that Surname, Baron of Knocking: for Sir George Stanley, son and heir of Thomas, Lord Stanley, Earl of Derby, the first of that name, married joan, the sole daughter and heir of the aforesaid john Lord Strange, here mentioned, who to her father's memory, made this monument, with whom he had both her father's honours, and ample inheritance; of which, Thomas Stanley▪ sometime Lord Bishop of Man, in his pedigree of the Stanleyes', speaking of Thomas, the first Earl, thus makes his rhyme, a Mss. George Lord Strange. He married his first son George, to no Farm, nor Grange, But honourably to the heir of the Lord Strange: Who lived in such love, as no man else had: For at the death of him, divars went almost mad; At an ungodly banquet (alas) he was poisoned, And at London in Saint james Garlikhith lies buried. The stile, title, and dignity of Lord Strange, james Lord Strange. james Stanley, eldest son and heir of William Earl of Derby (a gentleman of laudable endowments both of mind and body) now at this day happily enjoyeth. Harrow on the Hill. I find diverse of the Surname of Flamberds; of Flamberds in this Parish (now the habitation of a worthy Gentleman, Sir Gilbert Gerard, knight and Baronet) to be here interred. One of whose Tombs is thus inscribed. jon me do marmore numinis ordine slam tumulatur; Io. Flambard. Barde quoque verbere stigis è funere hic tucatur. Edmund Flambard & Elisabeth gisont icy Dieu de ●almes eyt mercy. Edmund Flambard and Elis. his wife. Amen. Flambard Edmundus iacet hic tellure sepultus Coniux addetur Elisabeth et societur. Sta moriture vide docent te massa johannis Io. Birkhed. Birkhed, sub lapide trux necat Atropos annis, M. Domini: C quater & X octo numeratis jungitur iste Pater; Cuthherge luce beatur. Hunc charitas, gravitas, fides, prudentia morum, Presulibus primus Regni fecere decorum▪ O Deus in celis tua nunc fovet alma maiestas, Quem tantum terris morum perfecit honestas. Acton. Pray for the soul of Sir Thomas Cornwall, Sir Thomas Cornwall. Baron of Burford in the County of Salop knight, and Banneret, which took to wife Anne, the daughter of Sir Richard Corbet of the same County; who departed this life the nineteen of August, M. D.xxx.vii. on whose soul, etc. Learned Camden, Camden in Shropshire. speaking of the Ancestors of this active strong family of the Cornwailes, hath these words. Upon the river Temd (saith he) is seen Burford, which from Theodoricke Say and his posterity, came unto Robert Mortimer, and from his posterity likewise, unto Sir Geffrey Cornwall, who derived his descent from Richard Earl of Cornwall, and king of the Almains: and his race even to these days hath flourished under the name of Barons of Burford, but not in the dignity of Parliamentary Barons; whereas it is holden of the King, for to find five men for the Army of Wales, and by service of a Barony. But more of these Cornwall's when I come to the usual place of their burial: for this Gentleman was casually here interred, dying here in this Town, as he passed from London into his own country. Here lieth Henry Gosse, and Alice his wife ..... 1485. Al you this way by me sal pas, Io. Bird Priest. Considyr what I am, and who I was. Bird I was first john by name; Here in Acton Priest and Parson of the same. Fifty year and three govern did I here, And fynisht my liff in the two and fortyth year, after a thousand ccccc of our Lords first coming, In earth me to redeem by sore pain suffering: And now I have peyd the stipend of this life, Yielding my flesh to worms without eny stryff. For my soul intercede that glory it may obtain, Where with the blessed Trinity eternally it may rein. And for you again prey by whose charity I am relevyd To sweet jesus with whose blood I am redeemed. Hendon. Io. Brent. Hic iacet johannes de Brent Armiger .... obiit .... An. Dom. 1467. These brent's were Gentlemen of ample possessions in this tract, whose chief residence was in Brentstreet, Specul. Brit. hereunto adjoining; from whom (saith Norden) that street took her denomination: As also the little Brook of Brent, which giveth name to Brentford, now called Brainford. Fowke de Brent. The most remarkable man of this Surname, was one Falcatius, or Falke, de Brent, who for his matchless prowess, and alldaring forwardness, was so beloved of king john, that he gave him in marriage Margaret, the daughter of Warrin Fitz-Gerald his Chamberlain, late the wife of Baldwin de Rivers, son of William Earl of Devon and Exeter. A match thought far unfit for such a man; but the King would have it so. Whereupon this was written. Mat Westminst. Lex connectit cos, amor & concordia lecti, Sed Lex qualis? amor qualis? concordia qualis? Lex exlex, amor exosus, concordia discors. This Fowke lived in the like grace and favour, with king Hen. the third, for by his fiery valour the said king got the victory at Lincoln, against Lewis the son of the second Philip king of France, and his own rebellious Barons. But not long after, looking over much upon the height of his Fortunes, and remembering too often his former good Services to the State, he (presuming upon his Sovereign's lenity) committed many horrible outrages, for which (after pardon of his life hardly obtained) he was adjudged to perpetual banishment, Mat. Pari●. in which he ended his days at Rome in extreme misery, and was there buried most ignobly, Ann. 1226. Tho. jacob and joan his wife. Hic iacet Thomas jacob et johanna uxor eius, qui quidem Tho. ob. 1441. & johanna .... 1400. Io. Downmeer & joan his wife. Here lieth john Downmeer and joan his wife. Whos soulys jesus pardon ..... 1515. Peter Goldesbrough. Hic iacet Petrus Goldesbrough civis et Aurifaber London qui obijt 1422. ....... Sancte Petre Pastor pro me precor esto rogator. Finchley. Upon the North wall of this Church the last Will and Testament of one Thomas Sanny is hung up; thus written in a table. In Dei nomine Amen. Anno Domini 1509. primo anno Henrici octavi; octavo die mens. Novembris. I Thomas Sanny of the Estende in Finchley, Tho. Sanny. in the County of Midlesex, whole in mind, and sick of Body, do make my last will and testament in form following. First I bequeatheth my soul to almighty God, to our Lady, and to all the Seynts in hevyn. And my body to be buried in the Churchyard of our Lady of Finchley. Item, I will after the death of my wyff the house called Fordis, and Stockwoodfeeld shallen while the world lastyth, pay out of the said house and lands forty shilling yearly to Priests, to sing for my soul, my Moders soul, my wyffs soul, my children, my kindred souls, and all Christian souls: and a noble to the reparation of the said house, and dispose to high ways and to poor people, or in oder good deeds of cherite. And also I will that the church wardens fall yearly see this done for ever. Item. I will that this be gravyn in a stone of Marbull that all men may see hit, as in my will mor plainly doth appear. jesus mercy Lady help. Here lieth entombed the body of Sir Thomas Frowicke knight, Sir Tho. Frowicke knight. Lord chief justice of the Common Pleas. The circumscription about his Monument is defaced and gone. In the Catalogue I find thus much: Thomas Frowick miles constitutus erat justiciarius de Banco xxx. die mens. Septembris, Ann. xviii. Hen. seven. et obijt xvii die mens. Octobris, Anno M. CCCCC. VI. et XXII. Hen. VII. Adjoining to this is another marble thus inscribed. joan la Feme Thomas de Frowicke gist icy Tho. Frowicke & joan his wife. Et le dit Thomas Pense de giser aveque luy. Hic iacet Thomas Aldenham Armig. et Chirurgus illustriss. Principis Henrici sexti: qui obiit... 1431. Tho. Aldenham. Hadley. Of your .... pray ... sowl of john Goodyere Esquire and jone his wyff which .... died ... 1504 whose sowls. Io. Goodyere & joan his wife. To the honour of Sir Henry Goodyer of Polesworth, a knight memorable for his virtues (saith Camden) an affectionate friend of his made this Tetrastich. An ill year of a Goodyer us bereft Remains. Who gone to God, much lack of him here left, Full of good gifts, of body and of mind Wise, comely, learned, eloquent, and kind. Enfield. 〈◊〉 Lady 〈◊〉. ..... jocosa quondam silia et una heredum .... Domini Powes, ac etiam silia et una heredum Domine Marchie ..... et uxor famosissimo militi ...... Tip●ofte .... dic Septemb. ..... 1446. Cuius anime et omnium fidelium defunctorum IHC pro sua sanctissima passione misereatur. Hist of Wales. ●. ●●ord. To make this time-eaten Inscription somewhat more plain: I find this jocosa to have been the daughter and coheir of Edward Charleton, Lord Powies in Wales, married to john Lord Tiptoft, father of john Lord Tiptoft first of that surname, Specul Britan. Norden. Earl of Worcester; who lived here at Enfield house, built by himself, or some of his Ancestors. Harnsey. Io. Skevington. jesus christ mary's Sonn Have mercy on the soul of john Skevington. An ancient family residing at Brumfield near adjoining. Edmundton. Peter Fabel, the mer●y devil of Edmonton. Here lieth interred under a seemly Tomb without Inscription the body of Peter Fabel (as the report goes) upon whom this fable was fathered, that he by his witty devices beguiled the devil: belike he was some ingenious conceited gentleman, who did use some slighty tricks for his own disports. He lived and died in the reign of Henry the seventh, saith the book of his merry pranks. Tho. Carleton & Elis. his wife. Hic iacent corpora Thome Carleton quondam Domini istius ville qui obiit 21. Feb. 1447. et Elisabethe uxoris eius silly Ade Francis Militis per quam habuit Dominium. .... This Tomb, as most of the Monuments in this Church, is shamefully defaced: the Inhabitants deliver by tradition, that this Carleton was a man of great command in this County, and that Sir Adam Francis, his father in law here nominated, was Lord Mayor of London, about the year 1353. and one of the Founders of Guild Hall Chapel or College to the said Hall adjoining. . Adam et Elisabeth les Infants Mounsieur Adam Franceys iesent icy; Dieu de son alms eit mercy. 〈◊〉 and Anne his wife Of your charity .... of john Kirton Esquire, and john Kirton the son of john Kirton, and Anne his wife and all Christian souls ..... Here lieth one whose name is worn out of his Monument, his Tomb covered with a fair marble stone, his body figured in brass armed, with a gorget of Mail; under his feet a Lion cowchant. His wife lieth portrayed by him; he is thought by some to have been one of that ancient and honourable family of the Mandevills, by others to be one of that noble family of the Darcies. These verses remaining. Earth goeth upon earth as mould upon mould Earth goeth upon earth all glistering in gold, As though earth to earth ner turn should▪ And yet must earth to earth sooner than he would. Ista Sacerdotis Innocent est tumba johannis Io. Innocent, o● Incent, under Treasurer of England. Vicerat Octobris quem nece quarta dies. A Quadringentis uno quoque mille sub annis Christi post ortum terra recepit eum. Hunc bini Reges, Henricus et ante Richardus Subthe saurarium Regni statuere sidelem Donet Rex celi gaudia Christe sibi. Here lieth Nicholas Borne, Nic. Borne and Elis. his wife. and Elizabeth his wife ......... Of death we have tasted the mortal rage, Now lying both togeddir undyr this stone; That somtym were knit in bond of Marriage For term of life, too bodies in on. Therefore good people to God in throne Prey, from the on body too sowlys proceed, The temporal marriage everlasting succeed. Honour Altissimo. Hic iacent johannes Daniel joanna et Alicia uxores eius ............. 1444. Io. Daniel. joan and Alice his wives. Newington: Hic iacet Matilda uxor johannis Ekington quondam cofferarij Hospitij Domini Regis Ed. quarti que ob. 1473. Maud Ekington. Tottenham. Here lieth entombed, Tho. Heningham Thomas Hynningham Esquire, who died, Anno 1499. on whose ..... Here lieth George Hynningham Esquire, George Heningham. sometime servant, and greatly favoured of King Henry the eight, who founded here an Hospital, or Almshouse for three poor widows, and died, Anno 1536. Orate ...... Elizabethe Turnant uxoris Richardi Turnant Ariosto que ob. ..... 1457. Elis. Turnant: Here lieth Margaret Compton, Margaret Compton. late daughter of Sir William Compton, Knight, who died 17 june, 1517. on whose. etc. The noble and ancient family of the Comptons', have been for a long time owners of the Mansion house here standing, not far from the Church. Pray for the souls of Thomas Billington Esquire, Tho. Billington. for his wife's souls Agnes and Margery: which Tho. died, 1539. Orate pro ...... Gredney ....... These Gredneyes held the Manor of Pembroke here in Tottenham, Grand Seargeant●e. as of the honour of Huntingdon, by an honourable Tenure, which our Lawyers term Grand▪ Sergeanty, namely to give unto the King a pair of Spurs of silver, gilded, when as the King should take upon him the order of Knighthood. Kilborne. Kilborne Nunnery. Here sometime was a Nunnery dedicated to the blessed Virgin Mary, but by whom founded I cannot learn, valued at the suppression to be worth fourscore and six pounds, seven shillings six pence by year. Hackeney. Hen. Lord Percy Earl of Northumberland. Here lieth interred, Henry Lord Percy, Earl of Northumberland, Knight of the most honourable order of the Garter, who died in this Town the last of lune, 1537. the 29 of Hen. the 8. I shall have occasion hereafter to speak more fully of this thrice-noble family of the Percies, when I come to the Abbey of Whitby in Yorkshire, of which they were founders: for this time I will conclude with these words out of Camden, Camd. in Surfex. concerning these high-born Earls of Northumberland. A family (saith he) I assure you very ancient, and right noble, which deriveth their pedigree from Charles the great, more directly, and with a race of Ancestors less interrupted, then either the Duke of Lorraine or of Guise, that so highly vaunt themselves thereupon. Alexander a Sergeant at Law. Dormit Alexander anne hic sub marmore magnus? Dum vixit genio maior et ingenio Maximus et merito; sacer Ecclesieque Deique Cultor, et in populo pacificator erat. Hun● seruum Legis elegit septima julij Lux, Octobris et hunc prima, deo rapuit. Seno ter deno bis centeno quater anno Milleno Domini qui pius assit ei. Pro quo defunctisque fidelibus omnibus ave Sit quicunque Pater Noster ait vel Aue. It appears by this Epitaph, (for I find no further of him in any other writings) that this Lawyer was a very honest man for those times, wherein judges, Sergeants, and many other eminent officers to the law, werefound guilty (and fined) of bribery and extortion. joan Only. Here lieth jone Only, the only most faithful wife of john Only of Warwickshire Esquire, to whose soul the only Trinity be merciful, Amen. she died the year 1525. Alice Ryder a Milkmaid. For the sowl of Allis Ryder of your cherite, Say a Pater Noster, and an Aue .... 1517. Her portraiture is in brass with a milk pale upon her head; she was (by relation) a liberal benefactor to this Church. Here lieth entombed without any Inscription, the body of one ...... Heron, Heron the founder of Hackeney. Esquire, the founder of this Church as I take it, by the pictures of Herons engraven in stone, upon every pillar of the Church. Subiacet hic strictus hoc marmore nunc homo pictus, Thomas Heart dictus hic vicarius benedictus Tho Heart Vicar O Cambrig per te fuit ille magister in Arte C. quater et mille: sex x: quarto ruit ille Et julij plena septena luce serena. Here lieth jone courteous, jone Curteys. the daughter of ..... Shordyche .... 1399. Here lieth Roger Ford, Roger Ford. 1453. Here lieth john Butterfield ..... 1454. Io. Butterfield. Here lieth Thomas Symond, Tho. Symonds. who died xi. day of May ... M. cccccxlii. Here lieth john Catcher, Io. Catcher. who died the ix. of May .... M. cccclxxxvii. Here lieth the body of Henry Therket, Hen. Therket. .... M. ccccciii. Here lieth the body of William Henneage, Will. Henneage. the son of Robert Henneage, one of the King's Auditors, who died the 5. day of August, An. Dom. 1535. on whose soul .... Auditor in our Law (saith the Interpreter) signifieth an Officer of the King, D. cowel. lit. ●. or some other great personage, which yearly by examining the Accounts of all under Officers Accountable, make up a general Book, that showeth the difference between their receipts and their allowances, commonly called (Allocations) as namely the Auditors of the Exchequer, take the account of those Receivers which receive the revenues of the augmentation, as also of the Sheriffs, Escheators, and customers, and set them down and perfect them. He that will know more hereof, may look, Stat. An. 33. Hen. 8. cap. 33. Of your cherite prey for the soul of john jenyngs, Io. jenning's. who died ....... M. cccc.xxiii. Pray for the soul of john Elryngton, Io. Elrington. Fylycer of London, and keeper of the Records of the Common pleas, who departed .... 1504 Fylycer or Filazer, cowel. lit. F. derived from the French word Filace, id est silum, is an Officer in the Common pleas, whereof there be fourteen in number. They make all original Process, as well real as personal and mixed: and in actions merely personal, where the defendants be returned or summoned, there goeth out the distress infinitè, until appearance; if he be returned nihil, then Process of Capias infinitè, if the plaintiff will, or after the third Capias, the Plaintiff may go to the Exigenter of the Shire, where his original is grounded, and have an Exigent, and Proclamation made. And also the Filazer maketh forth all writs in view in causes where the view is placed. He is also allowed to enter the Imparlance, or the general issue in common actions, where appearance is made with him, and also judgement by confession in any of them before issue be joined: and to make out writs of Execution thereupon. But although they entered the issue, yet the Protonotary must enter the judgement, if it be after verdict. They also make Writs of Supersedeas, in case where the Defendant appeareth in their Officers after the Capias awarded. Here lieth ..... William Lowthe, Will. Lowthe. Goldsmith of London .... 1528. Prey for the soul of Robert Walsingham, Rob. Walsingham. Clarke of the Spicery to King Henry the eight, who died ..... 1522. Chr. Urswick the K. Almoner of Amuer. Here lieth under a fair monument, the body of Christopher Urswick the King's Almoner, his picture in brass with this subscription. Christopherus Vrswicus Regis Henrici septimi Eleemosinarius, vir sua etate clarus, summatibus, atque insimatibus iuxta charus. Ad exteros Reges undecies pro patria Legatus; Deconatum Eboracensem, Archidiaconatum Richmundie, Decanatum Windesorie habitos vivens reliquit. Episcopatum Norwicensem oblatum recusavit: Magnos honores tota vita sprevit: frugali vita contentus, hic vinere, hic mori malnit, plenus annis obijt ab omnibus desideratus, funeris pompam, etiam Testamento vetuit: hic sepultus carnis resurrectionem, in adventum Christi expectat. obijt Anno Domini. 1521. 24 Octob. I have not heard of many Clergy men, neither in his, nor these days, that would relinquish and refuse thus many ecclesiastical honours and preferments, and content himself with a private Parsonage; but here let him rest as an example for all our great Prelates to admire; and for few or none to imitate. Islington. Io Fowler. Here .... john Fowler. ... 1538. on whose soul ... Alice Fowler. Here lieth Alis Fowler the wyff of Robart Fowler Esquire, who died .... 1540 Behold and see, thus as I am so sal ye be, When ye be dead and laid in grave, As ye have done, so sal ye have. diverse of this family lie here interred, the ancestors of Sir Thomas Fowler, Knight and Baronet, now living, 1630. Tho. Savill 〈…〉 Hic sepelitur Thomas Savil silius et heres apparens johannis Savil Armig. et Margarete uxoris eius, qui in primo limine vite immature mortis celeritate matrem preveniens, ex hac luce migravit 14 die etatis sue, Anno Dom. 1546. I prey the Christian man that hasts, go to see this, Robert Middleton and his wife. To prey for the souls of those that here buried is. And remember that in christ we be brether, The which hath commanded erye man to preyer for other This saith Robart Midleton, and his wife here wrapped in clay. Abiding the mercy of Almighty God till Doomys day. Which was servant somtym to Sir George Hastings Earl of Huntingdon. And passed this transitory life as 'tis written hereupon In the year of our Lord God on thousand five hundred and ten, On whose souls Almighty God have mercy, Amen. Katherine Mistelbrooke. Orate pro Wilielmo Mistelbroke Auditore, qui in seruitio Regis itinerans, deo disponente apud Denby in Marchia Wallie: An. Dom. M. cccc.lxxxxij. Corpus suum sacre sepulture reddidit; & pro Catherina uxore sua, cuius corpus sub is●o marmore tumulatum suit. Quorum anime in pace jesus Christi requiescant. Amen. Saint Pancras. In this old weatherbeaten Church (standing all alone as utterly forsaken, .... Grey and his wife. which for antiquity will not yield to Saint Paul's in London) I find a wondrous ancient Monument, which by tradition was made to the memory of one of the right honourable family of the Greyes, and his Lady; whose portraitures are upon the Tomb. Whose mansion house, say the Inhabitants, was in Portpoole, or Greyes-Inne-lane, now an Inn of Court. But these are but suppositions: for by whom Greyes-Inne was first possessed, Survey Lond. builded, or begun, I have not yet learned. Yet it seemeth, saith Stow, to be since Edward the third his time. These following are all the words left undefaced. Holy trinity on God have mercy on us. Hic iacent Robertus Eve et Lawrentia soror eius, Rob. Eve and Laurence his sister. filia Francisci Eve filii Thome Eve clerici corone Cancellarie Anglie .... Quorum ....... Hospital of Saint Giles in the Field. This Hospital was founded by Mawde the Queen, Hosp. of S. Giles founded. wife to King Henry the first, about the year one thousand one hundred and seventeen, it was a Cell to Burton Lazars (so called of Leprous persons) in Leicestershire. At this Hospital, the prisoners conveyed from the City of London to Tyburn there to be executed, S. Giles Bowl. were presented with a great Bowl of Ale; thereof to drink at their pleasure, as to be their last refreshing in this life. Stepney. Here lieth Henry Steward, Hen. Steward Lord Darle. Lord Darle, of the age of three quarters of a year, late son and heir of Matthew Steward Earl of Lennoux, and Lady Margaret his wife. Which Henry deceased the xxviii day of November, in the year of our Lord God. M. ccccc.xlv. Whose soul jesus pardon. This Henry's second brother was likewise christened Henry, and styled Lord Darle, or Dernley, a noble Prince, and reputed for person one of the goodliest Gentlemen of Europe; who married Mary Queen of Scotland, the royal parents of our late Sovereign Lord james the first, king of great Britain, father of our most magnificent Monarch Charles the first, now happily reigning. Vndyr this stone closyde and marmorate lieth john Kit Londoner natyffe. Io. Kitt, or Kite Bishop of Carlell. Increasing in virtues rose to high estate, In the fourth Edward's Chapel by his young life, Sith which the sevinth Henry's servyce primatyffe proceeding still in virtuous ●fficase To be in favour wi●h this our kings Graze. With wit endewyd chosen to be Legate Sent into Spain, where he right joyfully Combined both Princes, in pease most amate: In Grece Archbyshop elected worthily; And last of Carlyel ruling pastorally Keeping noble Household with great Hospitality: On thousand fyve hundred thirty and sevyn, Invyterate with pastoral caries, consumed with age, The nintenth of jun reckonyd full evyn, passed to hevyn from worldly pilgrimage: Of whose soul good people of cherite Prey, as ye would be prayed for; for thus must ye lie. jesus mercy Lady help. Sir Hen. C●lle● Lord Ma●●r. Here lieth Sir Henry Collet knight, twice Mayor of London who died in the year of our redemption, 1510. This H●nry was son to Robert Collet of Wendover, in Buckinghamshire, and father to john Collet Deane of Paul's, in the first time of his majoralty the Cross in Cheapside was new builded in that beautiful manner as it now standeth. Richardus iacet hic venerabilis ille Decanus Rich. Pa●e Dea●e of S● Paul's. Qui fuit etatis doctus Apollo sue; Eloquio, forma, ingenio, virtutibus, arte Nobilis, eternum vivere dignus erat. Consilio bonus, ingenio fuit utilis acri, Facunda eloquij dexteritate potens. Non rigidus, non ore minax, affabilis omni Tempore; seu puero seu loquerere sexi. Nulli unquam nocuit, multos adiuvit, & omnes Officij studuit demeruisse bonos. Tantus hic et talis, ne non deleatur ademptus Flent Muse, et laceris mesta Minerua comis. Obijt anno 1532. etat. circiter 40. This Pace succeeded Collet in the Deanrie of Paul's, a man highly in favour with king Henry the eight, by whom he was employed as Ambassador to Maximilian the german Emperor: as also to Rome in the behalf of Cardinal Wol●ey, who stood in election for the Popedom. He writ diverse learned treatises yet extant. Nam vir erat (saith Bale) viriusque literaturae peritia praeditus. Nemo ingenio candidior, aut humanitate amicitior: He was a right worthy man, and one that gave in counsel faithful adulce; learned he was also, and endued with many excellent good gifts of nature, Stow Annal. Cent. ●. courteous▪ pleas●nt, and delighting in Music, highly in the Kingsfavour, and well heard in matters of weight. Here was I borne, and here I make mine end Nic. Gibson Sheriff of London. Though I was Citizen, and Grocer of London, And to the office of Schrevalty did ascend; But things transitory pass and vanische soon, To God be geeven thanks if that I have aught done. That to his honour, and to the bringing up of youth, And to the succowre of the Age; for surely this is sooth. By Avise my wyff children were left me none Which we both did take as God had it sent; And fixed our minds that jointly in on, To relieve the poor by mutual consent. Now merciful jesus which hast assystyd hour intent, Have mercy on hour souls, and as for the residue, If it be thy will thou mayst hour Act continue. Upon the same marble these verses following: The fyve and twentyth day of this monyth of Septembyr, And of hour Lord God the fifteenth hundred and fowrty year, Master Nicholas Gibson died as this tomb doth remembyr, Whose wyff after married the worschypful Esquire, Master William Kneuet, on of the kings privy chamber. Much for his time also did he endeavour To make this Act to continue for ever. This pious act here mentioned in this Epitaph, is a free-school, founded at Radcliffe in this Parish, by the said Nicholas and Avise for the instruction of threescore poor men's children, by a Schoolmaster and an Usher; with an Almeshouse, for fourteen poor aged persons: and this Foundation continues to this day. Saint leonard's in Stratford Bow. This religious structure was sometime a Monastery, replenished with white Monks, dedicated to the honour of our alone Saviour jesus Christ and Saint Leonard: founded by King Henry the second, in the 23. year of his reign. And valued at the suppression to be yearly worth an hundred one and twenty pounds sixteen shillings. In this Abbey Church sometime lay entombed the body of john de Bohun, Iohn ●●●le o● Hereford. eldest son and heir of Humphrey de Bohun, Earl of Hereford and Essex. Which john de Bohun (to use the words of Milles in his Catalogue of Hereford Earls) after the death of his father Humphrey, was fifth Earl of Hereford, Constable of England, and Patron of the Abbey of Lanthony, fourth Earl of Essex (of that Surname) and fifth Lord of Brecknock. Because this Earl john in regard of his weakness of body, by a continual sickness, was not able to perform this office of the Constableship of England, Edward the third, at this Earl's entreaty, did substitute Edward Bohun, the Earls younger brother, Vice-Constable under him, for the term of his life. But Earl john died at Kirby Thore the 20. of january, upon Saint Fabian and Sebastian's day, 1136. the tenth of Edward the third leaving no issue: and was buried at Stratford Abbey not far from London. This john married first Alice, the daughter of Edmund Fitz-alan, Earl of Arundel, who died in childbed; and was buried at Walden with her Infant son after it was christened. His second wife was Margaret, daughter of Ralph, Lord Basset of Dr●yton, a Baron of the best rank in those days, by whom he had no issue. Hertfordshire. For Ecclesiastical government only, some part of this Shire belongeth to the Diocese of London, the rest to the Bishopric of Lincoln. Now because the Bishop of Lincoln hath so large a Territory under his jurisdiction. I w●ll be so bold as to borrow a few Funeral Inscriptions which I have collected in this County, and within his charge, and imprint them with those which are properly for London Diocese. All-hallows in the Town of Hertford. Sir Io Chappalaine Priest. Off your charity prayeth to God and Alhalwin hertely, For Ser jon Chappilaine somtym of yis plas Vicary, Almighty jesus resseve his sowl to graze and mercy. Isabella Newmarche. Icy gist Isabele Newmarche iadis Damsel a tres●oble Dame Isabele Roigne d' Engletere. Camd. in Somerset. This Isabella Newmarch, or de novo Mercatu, (a name of great reputation in the reign of King Henry the third) was Maid of Honour to that Isabella Queen of England, who was second wife to Richard the second, daughter of Charles the sixth, King of France. Lewis B●ysbury Hic iacet Lodovicus Baysbury Capell. Henrici sexti, ac Prebend. Ecclesie Cathedral Lincoln .... M. ccccxxviii. Will. Wa●e and Io●ne his wife. Here lieth undyr this stone William Wake, And by him jone his wyff and Make: Somtym yeoman of john Duc of Bedford's horse, And at Survayor with king Henry the sixth he was: Gentylman mad he was at the holy Grav, On qwos sowls almighty God mercy have. john Pre●st. Hic iacet johannes Prest quondam janitor Hospitii Katherine nuper Regine Anglie ....... This Priest was Porter to that Katherine Queen of England, who was the only wife of that invincible Conqueror of France, Henry the fifth, and daughter of Charles, the son of Charles aforesaid King of France. Saint Nicholas. Alice 〈◊〉 Hic iacet Alicia Tymyslow quondam Dominella Domine Ducisse Lankastrie que obiit 17 Septemb. 1396. This fair young waiting Chambermaid (for so much the word imports,) was servant to Katherine Swinford, the third wife of john of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. Hic iacet johannes de Chandry quondam Nolettus Domini Ducis Lankastrie .... Io. Chandry. This man's office under the Duke of Lancaster, was to ring (as I take it) the Sans, or sacring Bell. Hic iacet Richardus Pynere quondam Botelere cum Regina Anglie qui obitt xxii. januar. M. cccc. nineteen. A Flagon and a cup cut in brass upon his grave stone. Hic iacet venerabilis Armiger johannes Ingylby, Io Ingleby. qui obiit festo Mathei Apostoli et Euangeliste, 1457. This john was in especial favour, and did wonderfully flourish in the service of King Henry the sixth. A family of great antiquity in the County of York. By these Funeral Monuments it appears, that diverse Princes of this Land, have often made their residence in this Town; by which means it hath been in former times of great state, estimation, and beauty, but now for want of that general convention, the Castle (built before the Conquest, by Edward the Elder) is greatly decayed, these Parish Churches much ruined, and the Town neither greatly inhabited, nor much frequented. Here in this Town was a Priory of black Monks, valued in the Exchequer, Foundation of the Priory in Hert. to be yearly worth fourscore and six pounds, fourteen shillings, eight pence. A Cell it was to Saint Alban, founded by Ralph Limsey, a Nobleman, and dedicated to the Virgin Mary, in the reign of the Conqueror. I have my authority out of the Collections of Thomas Talbot, sometime keeper of the Records in the Tower, a great Genealogist; these are his words. Ralph Lord Limsey buried in the Priory of Hertford which he founded: Ralph Lord Limsey, here bu●●ed. he came into England with the Conqueror, and was his sister's son, as the Monks of the same house report. Port Or: three Eagles heads gules. One Robert Sotingdon, Robert Saddington. or Sadington, a man in great favour with Henry the third, and under him in honourable office, fell sick in his journey, being justice Itinerant in this town, in the year 1257. and was here interred. Mat Paris. One Sir Robert Sadington Knight, was Lord Chancellor of England, Anno 1345. and Sir Richard Sadinton Lord Treasurer, Francis Thin. much what about the same time, as in the Catalogue of both you may read. Ware. Hic iacet Thomas Bourchier miles filius Henrici comitis Essex; Sir Hen. Bourchier Knight. ac Isabella uxor eius nuper comitissa Devon. filia et heres johannis Barry militis, qui obijt .... 1491 .... et Isabel ob. 1 die Marcijs 1488. quorum animabus. This Thomas Bourchier was the first son (saith Vincent) of Henry Bourchier, Discovery of Brooks Errors. the first of that surname, Earl of Essex, and this Isabella, the daughter and heir of Sir john Barry Knight, was, when the said Thomas married her, the widow of Humphrey Lord Stafford of Southwike, son of William Stafford of Hooke, Esquire, created Earl of Devon by King Edward the fourth; to whom the said King gave all the Honours, Manors, Castles, etc. which were Thomas Courtneys, the fourteenth Earl of Devon: who, nevertheless, grew ingrateful to King Edward his advancer, in revolting from him at the battle of Banbury, for which cowardice (he being apprehended) was without process executed at Bridgewater, the seventeenth of August, anno 1469. having been Earl but three months. 〈◊〉 Lord Damory and Eliz●b●th his wif●. Hic iacent Rogerus Damory Baro tempore Edwardi secundi, et Elizabetha tertia silia Gilberti Clare comitis Glocestrie et Iohanne uxoris eius filie Edwardi primi v. cate johann. de Acris ..... This Roger Damory was Baron of Armoye in Ireland, and Elizabeth his wife, the Founder of Clare Hall in the University of Cambridge, of which more hereafter. jean Lucas gist icy Dieu de salme eit mercy. This is an ancient monument, so is the family. At the north end of this Town was a Friary, whose ruins, not altogether beaten down, 〈…〉 Essex. 〈…〉 and 〈◊〉 his wife. 〈…〉 and Eliz. his wife. are to be seen at this day; founded by Baron Wake, Lord of this Town, about the reign of King john, dedicated to Saint Francis, and surrendered the 9 of May, 26 Henry 8. Here lieth Thomas Heton & jone his wife, which Thomas died nineteen. Aug. M. cccc.ix. and joice, ... ... Will. Litlebury, and Elizabeth his wife; he died xxii▪ of july, M. cccc. Watton. 〈◊〉 Philip 〈◊〉 Knight. Hic iacet corpus domini Philippi Butler militis quondam Domini de Woodhall, et hutus Ecclesie Patroni, qui obijt in festo Sancti Leonardi, Anno Domini M. cccc.xxi et Regis Henrici quinti post conquestum ultimo. Cuius anime propitietur Deus, Amen. Camd. in H●r●. Camden saith, that these Butlers are branched from Sir Ralph Butler, Baron of Wem in Shropshire, and his wife, heir to William Pantulfe, Lord of Wem, soon after the first entry of the Normans. Hunsdon. In this Church are the right ancient and honourable family of the Caries interred, to whose memory I find no monument save one; under which john Cary Baron of Hunsdon lieth entombed; father to the right honourable Lord, Camd. in Her● Henry Cary, Lord Hunsdon, Viscount Rochfort, and Earl of Dover, now living; Grandchild to Henry, Baron of Hunsdon, Lord Chamberlain, and Cousin german to Queen Elizabeth; and descended from the royal family of the Dukes of Somerset. Sir Francis 〈◊〉 knight. Francisco Poyno Equiti, literis, prudentia, armis favore sui Principis, et pietate insigni. Domina Iohanna pia et amans uxor Charo marito posuit, 1520. This name is ancient and honourable, Camd. in Somers. Sir Hugh poins, being one of the rank of Parliamentary Barons in the reign of King Edward the first. Eppalets, or Hippolites, vulgarly Pallets. This Church was dedicated, S. Eppalet. saith Norden in his description of Hertfordshire, to a supposed Saint called Eppalet, whose relics lie buried about the high Altar. This man in his life time was a good tamer of Colts, and as good a Horseleech: And for these qualities so devoutly honoured after his death, that all passengers by that way on Horseback, thought themselves bound to bring their Steeds into the Church, even up to the high Altar, where this holy Horseman was shrined, and where a Priest continually attended, to bestow such fragments of Eppalets miracles, as would either tame young horses, cure lame jades, or refresh old, wearied, and forworne Hackneys: which did avail so much the more or less, as the passengers were bountiful or hardhanded. Baldock. Here is an ancient Monument, and an old Inscription which I often meet with. Farewell my friends, the tydabidyth no man, I am departed hens, and so sal ye But in this pasage the best song I can Is Requiem Eternam, now jesus grant it me. When I have ended all mine adversity Grant me in Paradys to have a mansion That sheddest thy blood for my redemption. Prey for the souls of William Crane, Will Crane, joan and Marg. his wives. joan and Margaret his wyffs, ... which William died ... 1483. ... on whose. Orate pro ... Wilielmi Vynter generosi et Margarete consortis sue, Will. Vynter and Margaret his wife. qui quidem Wilielmus obij● 2 junii 1416. et Margareta ob ... Octob. 1411. eorum animabus, parentum, amicorum, bene factorum suorum, Deus omnipotens pro sua magna miserecordia propitietur. Amen. This French Epitaph following was not long since to be read, engraved upon the monument of one of the Argentons'. Reignauld de Argentein ci gist Que c●st Chapel feire fist Fued chevalier saint Mairie Chescinipardon pour l'alme prie. Englished. Regnald de Argentyne, here is laid, That caused this Chapel to be made: He was a Knight of saint Mary the Virgin, Therefore prey pardon for his sin. The foundation of the Priory of Wymley or Wymondley. Within this ancient and famous Lordship of Wymley, (held by the most honourable tenure with us saith Camden, Camd. in Hert. which our Lawyers term Grand Seargeanty, namely that the Lord thereof should serve unto the Kings of England upon their Coronation day, the first cup) one Richard de Arg●nton, (descended from David de Argenton, a Norman, and a martial Knight, who under King William the Conqueror, served in the wars) Lord of this Manor, (divolued now by marriage to the Alingtons:) Founded a Priory for Canons regular, valued at the suppression, to to be yearly worth, thirty seven pounds, ten shillings, six half penny. Priory of Hitching. Within the Town of Hitching was a little Priory called New-bigging, valued to be worth fifteen pounds, one shilling, eleven pence, of yearly revenue. Ashwell. Elizabeth Anstell. Of your charity say for the soul of Elizabeth Annstell, a Pater Noster and an Aue .... 1511. Presbyter egregius prostratus morte Radulphus Ralph Howell. Howel, Grammaticus iacet hic sub marmore pressus: Tullius ore fuit, Prisciani dicta resoluens, Multos instruxit in Christo vota revoluens. Erat in Ecclesia pianumina semper honorans: Mane, sero Bacchi sugiens loca, crimina plorans, Dulcia frustravit, & fercula plena fugavit. Sepe ieiunavit, Christo mentem reperavit, Mundum despexit, sic multa volumina scripsit, Que regit & rexit, saluet Deus hunc rogo sic sit. Anno Mil. C quater. octogeno quoque sumpto, Monsis & Aprilis decessit ille secundo. Io Hinxworth and Martin his wife. Here in the north Isle, john Hinxworth and Martina his wife, lie buried under a monument (defaced) which seemeth to be of great antiquity. Io the son of Henry, or Io. Harison. Perpetuis annis memores estote johannis Henrici dictus proles hic ●acet arbore strictus. Bursa non strictus hoc Templo gessit amicus. Et meritis morum fuerat ... sociorum, Sic prece verborum scandet precor alta polorum. M. C quater septenis ter tres minor uno, Prima luce junij nunc vermibus hic requiescit. Hic iacet magister Thomas Colby in Decretis Bachalarius, Tho. Colby. & istius Ecclesie nuper vicarius, qui ob. 19 die mens. Septemb. Ann. 1489. Cuius. Orate pro .... Walteri Summoner ..... I read that one Walter Sumner (whether this here interred or no, Walter Sumner I know not) held the Manor of Ashwell of the King by petty sergeanty; Pettie Sergeantie. viz. to find the King Spits to roast his meat upon the day of his Coronation. And john Sumner his Son held the same Manor by Service to turn a Spit in the King's Kitchen upon the day of his Coronation. Abstract. Relivorin Scaccario. Ann. 6. Ed. 2. & Ann. 35. Ed. tertij. Hinxworth. Orate pro animabus johannis Lambard civis et Merceri, Io. Lambard & Anne his wife. ac Aldermanni London, qui obiit 1487. et Anne uxoris sue que obiit ..... 1400... quorum anime per miserecordiam dei in pace eterna requiescant. Amen. Orate pro ... Symonis Ward & Elene uxoris sue. Simon Ward and Ellen his wife. Qui quidem Symon ob. xi Decemb. 1453. & Elena obiit 21. Augusti 1483. Quorum .... Orate pro anima johannis Ward Maioris London, In a glass window. qui istam fenestram .... This Ward was Lord Mayor in the second of Richard the third; S●ow Survey. in which year were three Lord Majors, and three Sheriffs of London, by reason of a sweeting sickness, whereof they died. This john Ward was son to Richard Ward of Holden, in the County of York. Barley. Edward Chamberlain Clerk gist icy Edward Chamberlain. Dieu de salme eit mercy Amen. Qi morust en August le xxii jor M.ccc.lxxv. de nostre Seignor. Orate pro salubri statu Domini Willelmi Warham Legum Doctoris, Will Warham Parson of Barley. & Pauli London Canonici, magistri Rotulorum, Cancellarii Regis ac Rectoris de Barley. This Warham (remembered here in the glass window) was sometime Archbishop of Canterbury. Of whom I have spoken before in Christ-church Canterbury, the place of his burial. Sum Rosa pulsata mundi Maria vocata. Inscription upon a B●ll in the steeple. Roiston. Rohesia the daughter of Aubrey de Vere, The foundation of the Cross, the Monastery, and Town of Roiston. chief justice of England under Henry the first (sister to Aubrey de Vere, the first Earl of Oxford: and wife to Geffrey Magnaville, or Mandevill, the first Earl of Essex) erected (where now this Town of Roiston standeth) a Cross in the highway, which was thought in that age a pious work, to put passengers in mind of Christ's passion: whereupon it was called, Crux Rohesiae, before there was either Church or Town. But afterwards (saith Vincent out of the Records in the Tower) when Eustach de Merch knight, Lord of Navells in this tract, Rot chart an. 18 E. 2.12.7. had adjoined thereunto a little Monastery of Canons regular in honour of S. Thomas, Archbishop of Canterbury, then were Inns built here: So that in process of time by little & little, it grew to be a Town; which in stead of Rohesiaes' Cross, was called Rohesiaes' Town, and now contracted into Roiston. This Priory was augmented in her revenues, and renewed by Radulphus de Runcester, and others. Richard the first gives and confirms, Monasterio Sancti Thome Martyris apud crucem Rohesie & Canonicis ibidem, locum ipsum in quo idem Monasterium fundatum est, cum pertinentiis suis, que Eustachius de Merc fundator ipsius Monasterii, & Radulphus de Roucester, et alii fideles rationabiliter dedere eyes. Anno Reg. 1. In Arch. Turris London. Cart. antiq. R. So that at the suppression, the same was valued at eighty nine pounds sixteen shillings. The Catalogue of Religious houses saith, one hundred six pound three shillings and a penny. In a ruinous wall of this decayed Priory, lies the proportion of a man cut in stone, which (say the Inhabitants) was made to the memory of one of the Founders, who lieth thereby interred. The Hospital Here in this Town was also an Hospital (by whom founded I cannot learn) dedicated to the honour of Saint john, and Saint james Apostles, suppressed and valued but at 5. l. six shillings and ten pence by year. Pelham Furnix. Upon an old Tomb wherein a Priest lieth interred. Hic iacet elatum corpus maris fore reatum Indignus Flamen, Christi matris posco levamen. Io. D●niell and Marg. his wife Of your charity pray for the sowl of john Daniel of Felsted Esquoyr, and Margery his wife. Which john died the seven of October, M. ccccc.xix. Io. Newport. Orate pro anima johannis Newport Armig. heredis Roberti Newport Ar. & Marie uxoris eius, unius filiarum johannis Alington de Horsheth in Com. Cantab. Ar. qui quidem johannes Newport obiit primo die mensis junii, Ann. M. ccccc xxii. Rob. Newport & Mary his wife. Here lieth Robert Newport Esqwyr, founder of this Chapel, and Mary his wyff. Which Robert died xvii. of November, M. ccccc.xviii. Georg. Newport and Marg. his wife. Orate pro anima Georgii Newport Ar. et Margarete uxoris eius, que Margareta obiit xx lanurii M. cccc.lxvii. et Georgius obiit xxviii Octob. M. cccc lxxxiiii. These Newports here very fair entombed, were gentlemen (as I was informed) of ample revenues, in these parts; whose inheritance came by marriage to the Parkers, the Ancestors of the Lord Morley. Io. Lee and Io●ne his wife. .... johannes de Lee et johanna uxor. .... The arms and date gone. Sir Walter at l●● knight. gone Sir Waltar at Lea, alias Sir Walter at clay. ... His wife lieth by him, the Monument is ancient, but foully defaced. Io. Barloe and joan his wife. Hic iacent johannes Barloe et johanna uxor eius, qui quidem Iohannes obiit .... M. cccc.xx. et predicta Ioanna obiit xv Februar. M. cccc nineteen. Hen Barloe and Ka●herine his wife. Hic iacent Henricus Barloe, Ar. qui obiit v. die januarii M. cccc lxxv. et Katherine uxor eius que ob .... M. cccc lxiiii. S●ow Annal. An ancient and well allied family, one of which house, namely William, was in especial favour and trust with King Henry the seventh. Burnt Pelham. In the wall of this Church lieth a most ancient Monument: A stone wherein is figured a man, and about him an Eagle, a Lion, and a Bull, having all wings; and a fourth of the shape of an Angel, as if they should represent the four Evangelists: under the feet of the man is a cross Floury; and under the Cross, a Serpent. He is thought to have been sometime the Lord of an ancient decayed House, well moated, not far from this place, called, O Piers Shoonkes. He flourished, Ann. à conquestu vicesimo primo. Sabridgworth vulgarly Sabsworth. Hic iacent johannes Leventhorp Ar. qui obijt xxvii mens. Maij, Io. Leventhorp and Katherine his wife. M. cccc.xxxiii. & Katherine ux eius, que obiit v. die Octob. M. cccc.xxxi. quorum ... This john was one of the Executours of the last Will and Testament of King Henry the fifth. Stow Annal. Hic iacent johannes Leventhorp Ar. qui obiit ultimo die mensis Maij, Io. Leventhorp and joan his wife. M. cccc.lxxxiiii. & joanna uxor eius, que obiit xxix. Augusti, M. cccc.xl viii. En iacet hic puluis, putredo, vermis et esca; Et Famulus mortis; nam vita iam caret ista. Hic nil scit, nil habet, nec virtus inde relucet; Cerne luto vilius, horror, terror, fetor orbis, Opprobrium cunctis, ac est abiectio plebis, Hic frater aspice te, spira suffragia pro me. Hic iacet Isabella uxor johannis Leventhorp de Sabridgworth in Com. Hart. quondam uxor Roberti Southwel de Thachint in eodem Com. et filia johannis Boys .... Isabella Leventhorp. in Com. Lincoln. que obiit xx. julij M. cccc.lxxxi. Cuius. Hic iacet Agnes soror johannis Leventhorp Ar. que obiit x die Decemb. M. cccc.xliiii. Agnes Leventhorp. In this Church are diverse other Monuments of later times, Camd. in Hert. to the memory of the Leventhorps'; whose habitation is near at Shingle-hall; which is honoured by her owners, being of such worth and ancient gentry. Hic iacent johannes Chancy Ar. filius et heres johannis Chancy Ar. filii & heredis Willelmi Chancy militis quondam Baronis de Shorpenbek in Com. Ebor. et Anna uxor eius una filiarum johannis Leventhorp. Io. Chancy and Anne his wife. Ar. qui quidem Iohannes obiit seven Maii M. cccc.lxxix. et Anna two Decembris, M: cccc. lxxvii. quorum animabus. Of your charity say a Pater Noster and an Ave For the sowl of William Chancy, Will. Chancy. On whose sowl jesus have mercy. Hic iacent Galfredus joslyne & Katherine, Geffrey joslyne. ac Ioanna uxor eius, qui obiit two januar. M. cccc lxx. Orate pro anima Radulphi joslyne quondam militis, Sir Ralph joslyne knight, Lord Maior. et bis Maioratus Civitatis London, qui obiit xxv. Octob. M. cccc.lxxviii. Stow Annal, and Survey. This Sir Ralph joslyne, or josceline, was the son of the foresaid Geffrey josceline here interred. He was invested knight of the Bath with Sir Thomas Cook, Sir Matthew Philip, and Sir Henry Weever, Citizens, at the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth, the wife of King Edward the fourth, in the year 1465. The first time of his majoralty was in the year 1464. the other not long before his death. He was a careful corrector of the abuses used by Bakers and Victuallers of the City of London; and by his diligence the walls of the said City were repaired. This name (as I was told) doth still flourish in this tract. Bishops Stortford. So called because it belongs to the See of London, given unto it by William the Conqueror, in the time of Mauritius Bishop of this Diocese. Tho. Fleming. Hic iacent Thomas Fleming .. 1436. Io. the wife of Tho Fleming. Hic iacet joanna Fleming ux. Tho. Fleming .... 1411. Hist. of Wales. A family whose numerous branches have spread themselves through England, Scotland, and Wales, ever since the time of Sir john le Fleming knight, who flourished in the reign of king William Rufus. Io. Algar and Maud his wife. Hic iacent johannes Algar & Matilda uxor eius, qui quidem Iohannes obiit, Ann. M. cccc lxxxiiii ... Matilda M. cccc lxxx. Brawghing. Orate pro anima Nicholai Coton filii et heredis johannis Coton quondma de Pantfeeld in Com. Essex qui ob. 25. Aug. 1500. Nich. Coton: For whose sowl I pray you of your charity, say a Pater Noster and an Ave. Tho. Greene. Here lieth Thomas Greene the son of Nicholas Greene, who died 2. March 1484. joan Rustwin. Here lieth joan lat wyff of Thomas Rustwyne, and dawter of Nicholas Greene, who died .... 1400. Here are many Monuments of the Green's quite defaced. Saint Margaret's by Hodsden. Io. Goldington. Hic .... johannes de Goldington Ar. filius johannis de Goldington Ar. filii johannis de Goldington militis filii .... M. cccc nineteen. Here are many other funeral Monuments in this little Church, which have been inlaid and inscribed in brass, with the portraitures, arms, and Epitaphs of this ancient family of the Goldingtons; now all defaced and gone. Brocksbourne. Elisabeth Lady Say. Here lieth Dame Elisabyth somtym wyff to Sir john Say knight, dawter to Laurence Cheyne Esqwyr of Cambridg Shire. A woman of noble blood, and most noble in grace and manors. She died xxv. Septem. M. cccc.lxxiii. and was enterryd in this parish Church, abiding the body of her said Husband: whose sowls God bring to everlasting life. Of your charity prey for the sowl of Sir William Say knight, Sir William Say Knight. deceased, late Lord of the Manor of Base, his father and mother, Genevese and Elisabyth his wyffs, who died iiii. Decemb. M. ccccc.xxix.xxi. Hen. oclavi. This Sir William Say built the north Isle of this Church, as by an inscription in the glass window may be gathered. This family flourished here for many descents, even until the death of this Sir William, whose inheritance for want of heirs male, was divided amongst his daughters, of which hereafter. Here lieth john Borrell, Io. Borrell and Eli●. his wi●e. Sergeant at Arms to Henry the eight, and Elizabyth his wyff, who died M. ccccc.xxxi. Cheston. Quem tegit iste lapis Radcliffe cognomine functus Radcliffe. .... et in cineres vertitur unde fuit. Icy gist Damoselle johanne clay, joan Day. que trespassa l'an de Grace M. cccc.le xxii. iour Octobre, iour Saint M. lun Euesque. Here sometime stood a little Nunnery, I know not by whom founded, Foundation of Cheston Nunnery. but thus it is confirmed in the Catal. of religious houses. Henr. Rex Anglie, Dominus Hibernie. Dux Normannie, Aquitanie, et comes Angedavie, etc. Shestrehunt Monial. totam terram Dom. ten. cum pertinentijs suts que canonicis de cathele &c. quos amoveri fecimus, Speed. dat. apud West. xi. Aug. Anno Regni nostri xxiiii. This Nunnery was valued in the Exchequer to be yearly worth, twenty seven pound, six shillings eight pence. This village is called in old Writings, Des. of Hert. Chesthunte, Shestrehunte: and Norden saith, cur non Chestin, Castanetum, of Chesnut Trees. Bishops Hatfield. This Church is much honoured by the Sepulture of that prudent great Statesman, Robert, Baron Cecil, Earl of Salisbury, Lord Treasurer of England, father of William Lord Cecil, Earl of Salisbury, one of the honourable privy Council now living, Anno 1630. and keeping royal hospitality at his Mansion house hereunto adjoining, which sometimes did belong to the Bishops of Ely, whereupon it was named Bishops Hatfield. Of Robert this Earl here interred, I shall speak more when I come to let down his Epitaph. Harding. Hic iacent Wilielmus Seabroke qui obijt. Will. Seabrooke and joan his wife. 2 April. 1462. et Ioana uxor eius ...... quorum ... Orate pro animabus Mathei Cressy et johanne uxoris eius quondam filie Edmundi Peryent Ar. Mat. Cressy, joan and Anne his wives. et Anne dicti Mathei uxoris, quondam filie Thome Vernon Armigeri, que Iohanna obijt xxix. novemb. M. cccc.lxxviii. Will Anabull and Isabella his wife. Hic iacent Wilielmus Anabul, et Isabel uxor eius qui quidem Wilielmus obiit 4 die Octob. 1456. Saint Alban Abbey. I think it not much amiss to speak a little of this Protomartyr of England, Saint Alban, whose relics lie here interred, to whose name, and for his eternal commemoration, both this Town and Monastery wer● built and consecrated. He was a Citizen and a Knight of that famous City Verulam, (which stood hereby beyond the little river) who giving entertainment at his own house, to Amphibalus a Christian, and one of the Clergy, was by him his guest, converted from Paganism, to the true profession of jesus Christ: and when Dioclesian (who made Maximian his companion in the Empire) went about by exquisite torments, to wipe Christian Religion quite out of the memory of men, was the first in Britain, that with invincible constancy and resolution, suffered death for Christ his sake: of which persecution, ●s also of his martyrdom, my often alleged Author, Robert of Gloucester, shall tell you in his old verse. Two Emperors of Rome were on Dioclesian, And another his fellow that het Maximian. And were both at on tim, the on in the Este end, The oder in the west of the world, all christendom to shende. For the luther Maximian westward hider sought, And christian men that he fond to strange death he brought. Churchen he pulled a down, there ne most non stoned, And all the books that he might found in eny land, He would late berne echon, amid the heigh street, And the christenmen asle, and non alive let. Such God was yvor upon christendom. Such persecution as there was had there be non. For yunca month there were seventeen thou send and more, I martyred for our Lord's Love: nas ther a great woe? With out oder great halwen that hiis heold long in torment. As saint Cristene, and saint Feye, and also saint Uincent, Fabian and Sebastian, and othur as men read, That heold fast in the faith, and had non dread, And among men of this land there were many on I martyred at thulke tim, saint Albon was on: He was the first Martyr of Brutayn that come Much was the shome men dude in Christendom, Undyr this Luther Emperor. Another not so ancient, hath it thus. The Emperor dioclesian Into Britain then sent Maximian: Hardin cap. ●7. This Maximian to surname Hercelius, A Tyrant false that Christente annoyed, Through all Britain, of work malicious, The christoned folk felly and sore destroyed. And thus the people with him foul accloyed, religious men the priests and Clerks all▪ Women with child and bedrid folks all. Children souking upon the mother's pappis, The mothers also withouten any pity, And children all in their mother's lappis The crepyls eke and all the christentee, He killed and slew with full great cruelty. The Churches brent, all books or ornaments Bells, reliquys that to the Church appendes, He slew that time, and martyred Saint Albone. Now when neither persuasions, nor cruel torments, could make him forsake the true faith, jacobus de peragine, translated. such was the sentence of his death, as I find it in a legend of his passion and martyrdom, which to give your palate variety, I will set down in such English as I have in the said Legend, or Agon. In the time of the Emperor dioclesian, Albone Lord of Uerolamye, Prince of knights, and Steward of all Brutayne during his life, hath despysyd * jupiter and Apollo. jupiter and Apollyn our Gods; and to them hath do derogation and disworschyp, wherefore by the Law, he is judged to be deed by the hand of some knight, and the body to be buried in the same place, where his heed shall be smitten of, and his sepulture to be made worshcipfully for th'honour of knighthood whereof he was Prince, and also the cross which he bore, and * A Palmer's Weed. Sklavin that he ware should be buried with him, and his body to be closed in a chest of lead, and so laid in his sepulture: This sentence hath the Law ordained, by cause he hath reny our principal Gods. His judgement being given after this manner, he was brought from the City Veralam, to this his place of execution, which, as then, was an hill in a wood, called Holmehurst, where at one struck his head was smitten off. But his Executioner, saith venerable Bede, Bed lib. 1. c. ●. had short joy of his wicked deed, for his eyes fell to the ground, with the head of the holy Martyr: of which will you hear another writer. Thousands of torments when he had endured for Christ his sake, Vid Camd. in Hert. At length he died by doom thus given; his head away to take. The Torture proudly did the feat, but clear he went not quit, That holy Martyr lost his head, this cruel wretch his sight. He suffered martyrdom in the year of Christ, saith Stow, 293. the twentieth day of june, saith Bede, howsoever the two and twentieth day of the same month▪ was appointed by the Church, to be kept holy to his memory, as we have it in our English Calendar. Many Miracles are said to be wrought by this sacred Martyr, both living and dead, but I will leave them, (for that they will be thought incredulous in this age) and come to the foundation of this Abbey. The Sepulchers of holy Saints, the relics of blessed Martyrs, and the very places of their martyrdom, The foundation of S. Alban Abbey. did kindle, in times past, no small heat of divine charity in the minds of our first Christian Saxon Kings; which made Offa the glorious King of the Mercians, to recall himself from the trace of bloody wars, in great devotion to go to Rome, and to obtain of Pope Adrian the first, the canonyzation of this martyr Alban; in honour of whom, the first to our Lord jesus Christ, he founded this monastery, about the year 795. (the Church whereof still remaineth, which for bigness, beauty, and antiquity, is to be had in admiration) in the very place where the foresaid Alban suffered his martyrdom. He endowed this his goodly fabric, with sufficient revenues for the maintenance of one hundred black Monks, Benedictins, and caused the relics of his new Saint to be taken up, and put in a shrine, adorned with gold and precious stones of inestimable value; which was further enriched by his son Egfrid, and many other succeeding Kings and Princes, but now at this day, nothing is remaining of this rich Shrine, save a marble stone, to cover his sacred Ashes; over against which, on the wall, these verses are lately depicted, only to tell us that such a man there was, to whose memory a Shrine was erected. Renowned Alban knight, first Martyr of this land, By Dioclesian lost his life through bloody hand. Who made him sovereign Lord, high Steward of this Isle, And Prince of Britain knights to dignify his stile, He verity embraced, and Verulam forsook, And in this very place his martyrdom he took. Now hath he his reward, he lives with Christ above, For he above all things, Christ and his truth did love. Here Offa, Mercians King, did Alban bones enshrine, So all things were disposed by providence divine. Nought but this marble stone of Alban Shrine is left, The work of all form else, hath changing time bereft. I have read in an old Mss. in Sir Robert Cottons Library, that this following, was anciently the Inscription upon his Shrine. Here lieth interred, the body of Saint Alban, a Citizen of old Verulam, of whom this town took denomination, and from the ruins of which City, this Town did arise. He was the first Martyr of England, and suffered his martyrdom the xx. day of june, in the year of man's redemption, 293. Under a curious and costly funeral monument here in the Choir, lieth interred the body of Vmfrey Plantagenet, Vm●hrey Duke of Gloucester. Milles Catal. surnamed the Good, fourth son of King Henry the fourth. By the grace of God (for so begins his stile by Charter) son, brother, and uncle of Kings, Duke of Gloucester, Earl of Henault, Holland, Zealand, and Pembroke, Lord of Friesland, great Chamberlain of England, Protector and defender of the Church and kingdom of England. Thus great, thus glorious, by birth, creation, and marriage, was he in his honourable titles and Princely attributes; but far more great, and illustrious, in his virtuous endowments, and inward qualities: But in his praise, may it please you read learned Clarentieux, in his tract of Suffolk, where he writes of the Abbey of Bury: these are his words. That father of his country, Vmfrey Duke of Gloucester, a due observer of justice, and one who had furnished his noble wit, with the better and deeper kind of Studies, after he had, under King Henry the sixth, governed the kingdom five and twenty years with great commendations; so that neither good men had cause to complain of, nor enfield to find fault with, was here in Saint Saviour's Hospital brought to his 〈◊〉 by the spiteful envy of Margaret of Lorain, who was wife to Hen●● the ●ix●h his Nephew. But his death was the stroke of an evil Angel, Speed. 〈…〉 ent to punish England, and to root out all her Nobles. Fidior in regno regi duce non ●uit is●o, Plusue fide stabilis, aut maior amator honoris. Saith the Abbot of this house Io. Whethamsted; yet for all this was he arrested of high Treason, in the year 1446. and within few days after strangled to death; Stow. Annal. without any trial. Some say he died for sorrow, because he might not come to his answer. He built the Divinity School in Oxford, and was an especial benefactor to this Abbey. Here is an Epitaph penciled on the wall near to his Tomb, to the same effect; with an Item of the miracle which he wrought upon the blind imposture. The story is frequent. Hic iacet Vmphredus Duxille Glocestrius, olim Henrici Regis Protector, fraudis ineptae Detector; dum ficta notat miracula caeci. Lumen erat Patriae, columen venerabile Regni: Pacis amans, Musisque favens, melioribus; unde Gratum opus Oxonio, quae nunc scola sacra refulget. Invida sed mulier regno, Regi, sibi nequam Abstulit hunc, humili vix hoc dignata Sepulchro. Invidia rumpente tamen post funera vivit. Under a large marble stone thus inscribed, lieth john Stoke, Io. Stoke Abbot an Abbot of This Church. Hic iacet oblitus Stoke stans velut ardua quercus Semper in adversis perstitit intrepidus. Wallingford Prior hic gregis huius pastor, & Abbas, Donet ei requiem celsa dei pietas. Celica regna bone mihi dentur queso Patron. Penas compesse, requiem da virgula jesse. Me precor Amphibale soluens ad sidera sum. Mss. in bib. Cott This Abbot (as it is in this Epitaph, and in the golden Register of this house) was a stout defender of the lands and liberties of his Church: he adorned Duke Vmfreys Tomb; he gave money, by his Will, to make a new bell, which after his own name was called john; and also to new glass the Cloisters, Sibi igitur (saith the book) ea sit merces, que dari solet illis qui ad honorem sue Ecclesie, laudabilia student opera in temporibus suis. Upon a Prior of this house. Vir crucis & Christi tumulo iacet inclitus isti, Carcere de tristi saluetur sanguine Christi. Armacrucis sumpsit intrando Religionem; Mundum contempsit propter celi regionem. Hic studuit claustri Pondus sufferre laboris, In stadio studij * a reward. bravium percepit honoris: Flatus fortune grandes patience tolerabat, Gaudia, tristitia, equalilance librabat. Nil adversa timens, nec multum prospera curans; Se medio tenuit; per ferrea tempora durans. Omni gestura constans nil triste timebat; Omni pressura Christo laudes referebat. Armis Iustitie cinctus deitatis amore Hostibus Ecclesie restitit in fancy. Ad tumulum Proceres mors impia transferet omnes; Vt puerilis amor defluit omnis honour. I find this Inscription following upon a fair marble, under the portraiture of one of the Abbots, who modestly thus suppresseth his name. Hic quidem terra tegitur Peccato soluens debitum. Cuius nomen non impositum, In libro vitae sit inscriptum. Michael Abbot Hic iacet Dominus Michael quondam Abbas huius Monasterij Bachalaureus in Theol. qui obiit pridie Idus Aprilis Ann. M.ccc xlii. Michael Abbas (saith the said book of S. Alban) merito nomen Angelicum est sortitus, nam opera que ipse fecit, ostendunt qualis fuerit. Fuitque in omni vita tam pius suis fratribus & mansuetus, ut inter eos merito tanquam Angelus haberetur. Gulielmus quartus opus hoc laudabile, cuius Extitit, hic pausat, Christo sibi premia reddat. This Abbot's name was William Wallingford, a man abundantly charitable to the poor, and munificent to the Church. His gifts to both did amount to the sum of eight thousand and threescore pounds seven shillings and six pence (confirmed in the said book) by Thomas Ramridge then Prior, and the rest of the Covent, in the year 1484. Die octavo mens. Augusti; concluding with these words: Ex his igitur premissis manifestissime cernere possumus, quam utilis & quam carissimus suo olim Monasterio extiterit. Ea propter sinceris omnes cordilus, ad omnipotentem deum, pro eo precaturi dies ac noctes devotissime sumus, ut sibi in celis mercedem suis factis dignissimam retribuere dignetur. Amen. Hic iacet ... Th●mas Abbot. Thomas Abbas huins Monastery .... This is the last Abbot for whom I find any Inscription, or Epitaph, and the last in my Catalogue: whose Surname was Ramrige, Vir suis temporibus tam dilectus deo quam hominibus, propterque causas varias nomen in perpetua benedictione apud posteros habens▪ saith the golden Register. Here I may have occasion to set down the names of all the Abbots of this House, In bib. Cott. from the first foundation to this man; and the rather because I have certain Epitaphs in some of their commendations, collected out of the Abbey book, which sometime were engraven upon their Monuments: besides other passages are thereby discovered, not unpleasing to the Reader. When Offa the Founder had built and endowed this Monastery, ●illigod the first Abbot. with more than twenty Lordships and Manors, and obtained for it all royal privileges, and pontifical ornaments: he made choice of one Willigod, to have the government of these possessions and prerogatives, as also of the religious persons by him to his Abbey promoted. This man did laudably govern his charge for many years. 2. Eadrick succeeded him, a severe punisher of malefactors. 3. Then Wulsigge. 4. Wulnoth, in this Abbot's time many miracles are said to be wrought at Saint Albon's Shrine. 5. Eadfride: this Abbot gave a massy cup of gold, or chalice of inestimable value to the Shrine of Saint Albon. 6. Wulfine, a village of a few houses being here already built near to the Monastery, this Abbot procured a Market there to be kept; and called together people of other villages therein to inhabit. He built the Churches of Saint Peter and Saint Michael in this Town, and a Chapel near to S. Germane Chapel, which he dedicated to Saint Mary Magdalene. 7. Alfricke, this Abbot for a great sum of money purchased a large and deep pond, lying betwixt old Verulam and this village (an evil neighbour and hurtful to his Church) which was called the Fish pool, appertaining to the kings: and the King's officers and Fishers molested the Abbey, and burdened the Monks thereby. Out of which Pool he the said Abbot in the end drained the water, and made it dry ground. The name of which Pond or Poole remaineth still here in a certain street, called Fish-poole street. 9 Ealdred, the Abbot in the reign of king Edgar, having searched for the ancient vaults under ground at Verulam, overthrew all, and stopped up all the ways with passages under ground; which were strongly and artificially arched over head: For they were the lurking holes of whores and thieves. He leveled the ditches of the City, and certain dens, into which malefactors use to fly, as unto places of refuge. But the whole tiles and stones which he found fit for building, he laid aside; intending therewith to have re-edified his Church, but he was prevented by death. 9 Eadmer his Successor went forward with the work that Ealfred began, and his pioneers overthrew the foundations of a palace in the midst of the old City: And in the hollow place of a wall, as it were in a little closet, they happened upon books, covered with oaken boards, and silken strings at them: whereof one contained the life of Saint Alban, written in the British tongue; the rest, the ceremonies of the Heathen. When they opened the ground deeper, they met with old tables of stone, with tiles also and pillars, likewise with pitchers and pots of earth, made by Potters and Turner's work: vessels moreover of glass, containing the ashes of the dead, etc. To conclude, out of these remains of Verulam, Eadmer built a new the most part of his Church and Monastery; with a determination to have finished all: Sed tamen morte preventus, saith the book, propositum suum non est assecutus. 10. Leofricke was preferred to the archbishopric of Canterbury, who departing with the benediction of his brethren, left his Monastery abundantly rich. This man is omitted in the Catalogue of Bishops, or otherwise Aluric●us or Alfricus is set in his place. 11. This Alfricke or Aluricke was the eleventh Abbot, and brother by the mother's side to his predecessor Leofricke; he compiled an History of the life and death of Saint Alban, and he, together with his brother, got and gave nine villages to this Abbey. 12 Leofstane procured many great and important liberties to his Church, of Edward the Counfessour, whose Chaplain and Confessor the said Abbot was; and who, betwixt the King and his Queen Editha, was Casti consilij seminator. 13. Frederick the bold and rich Abbot of Saint Alban (for so he was called) succeeded Leofstane, descended from the Saxons noble blood, as likewise from Canutus the Dane: this man opposed the Conqueror William in all his proceedings, plotted against him in diverse conspiracies, and told him stoutly to his face, that he had done nothing but the duty of his birth and profession; and if others of his rank had performed the like (as they well might and ought) it had not been in his power to have pierced the land so far. But this, and other his overbold answers, did so offend the King, that he took from him this Abbey of Saint Alban, with all the lands and revenues belonging thereunto, which lay betwixt Barnet and London stone. Whereupon, without delay, he called a Chapter of his Brethren, showing them their approaching dangers, and to avoid the present storm, went himself to Ely (where he desisted not from his wont machinations against the Conqueror) and there ended his days, in magna mentis amaritudine (saith mine Author) postquam multis annis huic Ecclesie nobiliter prefuisset. 14. Paul a Monk of Cane, upon his death, was made Abbot, who in short space by the counsel and aid of Lanfranke, Archbishop of Canterbury, builded very sumptuously a new Church, with a Cloister here, with a●l offices; and adorned the same Church with many good books, and rich ornaments. He procured his lands and revenues back again from the Conqueror; and by himself, and his forcible persuasions with others, he did further enrich his Abbey with many fair possessions. 15 Richard succeeded him, who solemnly & magnificently did consecrate the Church, which his predecessor Paul had finished, and built a Chapel of himself to the honour of Saint Cuthbert, in which he was entombed, with this Epitaph. Abbas Richardus iacet hic, ut pistica nardus Redolens virtutum floribus et merit is. A quo fundatus locus est hic, edisicatus Ingenti studio nec modico precio. Quem nonas decimas Februo proment Kalendas, Abslulit ultima sors, et rapuit cita mors. 16 Geffrey the Abbot gave many rich ornaments to this his Monastery, with a Chalice and a cover all of massy pure gold, which afterwards he sent to Pope Celestine the second, ut ipsius sedaret avaritiam, volent is hanc Ecclesiam appropriare; that he might appease or mitigate the covetousness of his holy father of Rome, who was willing (and went about) to impropriate this Abbey. Abbas Galfridus Papa cui fuit ipse molestus Hic iacet innocuus, prudens, pius, atque modeslus. 17 Ralph his successor, built anew the lodgings for the Abbots, and gave diverse rich Copes and Vestments for the ornament of his Church. 18 Robert was the next Abbot who procured the Church of Luton to be annexed to this, S. Alban exempre from the 〈◊〉 of Lincoln and delivered his Monastery from the servitude of the Bishop of Lincoln, which was a controversy of long continuance, and in the end agreed upon by composition; which agreement was confirmed by Alexander the third, Bishop of Rome, about the year 1178. as by his Bull to that purpose appearent. Bulla de compositione facta inter Lincoln. Ecclesiam et Ecclesiam beati Albani. Alexander Episcopus seruus seruorum Dei. Dilecto filio Roberto Abbati monasterij Sancti Albani. Salutem et apostolicam ben. Ea que compositione seu concordia mediante rationabili providentia statuuntur, in sua debent stabilitate consistere: Et ne alicuius temeritate in posterum valeant immutari Apostolice sedis ea convenit auctoritate muniri. Ea propter dilecte in Domino (fili Roberte) tuis postulationibus grato concurrentes assensu, compositionem que inter Lincoln. Ecclesiam et monasterium beati Albani super Processionibus de Herfordshira, de quibus inter utramque Ecclesiam controversia fuerat, sicut in instrumento exinde facto continetur utriusque partis assensu rationabiliter facta est: tibi et prefate Ecclesie tue auctoritate Apostolica confirmamus, Statuentes ut nulli omnino hominum liceat hanc paginam nostre confirmationis infringere, vel ei ausu temerario contraire. Si quis autem hoc attemptare presumpserit, indignationem omnipotentis dei, et beatorum Petrie et Pauli Apostolorum eius se neverit incursurum. Dat. Auagn. xi. Kal. Feb. pontificatus nostri, anno seven. About twenty years afterwards, (upon some new quarrels, belike, arising between the two foresaid Churches) this composition and transaction was again confirmed by Clemens the third, in these words. Clemens Episcopus seruus seruorum dei; dilectis filijs Abbati et conventui Sancti Albani, Salutem et Apostol●cam ben. Cum inter vos ex una parte et Ecclesiam Lincolnien. et Capitulum eius ex altera controversia verteretur, super eo quod Capitulum ipsum Ecclesiam vestram proponebat Ecclesie Lincolnien▪ de iure esse subiectam, inter vos concordia de assensu partium intercesserit. Nos itaque volentes que super causarum litigijs concordia vel iuditio rationabiliter statuuntur firmitatem perpetuam optinere; et ne processu temporis in scrupulum recidue contentionis deuenia●t, literarum amminutulis memorie commendare concordiamillam sicut rationabiliter facta est, et ab utraque parte recepta, et in scripto autentico continetur, auctoritate Apostolica con●irmamus, et presentis Scripti patrocinio communuimus. Statuentes ut nulli; as before. Dat. Lateran. Id. Martij Pontisicatus nostri, Anno secundo. 19 Simon Abbot caused many books to be written for the use of the Covent; in his time, one Adam, Steward of the monastery, made the Kitchen much more large, and gave both money and lands to the Covent and Monastery, ideo (saith my Author) ob preclara eius merita inter Abbates in capitulo sepulturam meruit optinere; therefore for his good deserts, he deserved to be buried in the Chapterhouse amongst the Abbots. 20 Carine caused a coffin and a Shrine to be new made, wherein he put the relics of Saint Amphibalus. Richard Cordelion, King of England, being taken prisoner by Leopold Duke of Austria, and his ransom set at one hundred thousand pound; commandment was directed from his justices, that all Bishops, Prelates, Earls, Barons, Abbots, and Priors, should bring in the fourth part of their revenues towards his deliverance: at which time the shrines in the Churches were fleeced, and their Chalices coined into ready money, yet this Abbot (quia Regi erat amicissimus) redeemed the Chalices, and all other the rich offerings to the glorious shrines within his Church, for two hundred marks. This Carine was the first Abbot of this house, that was dignified with Mitre and Croisier. 21 john de Cella did many works of piety, and purchased the Church of Saint Stephen, with certain lands thereunto adjoining, for one hundred and twenty marks, which he did assign to the Officers of his Kitchin. 22 William, amongst many of his pious acts, re-edified Saint Cuthberts' Chapel, being as then ruinous and ready to fall down; which he new made in the honour of Saint Cuthbert, Saint john the Baptist, and Saint Agnes the Virgin; upon which dedication he caused these verses to be ensculpted over the high Altar. Confessor Cuthberte Dei Baptista johannes, Agnes virgo, tribus vobis hec ara sacratur. 23 john of Hertford was a great benefactor to this Abbey. 24 His successor Roger did wondrously love the beauty of the house of God, which he evidently did demonstrate by the great cost and charges he bestowed upon this his own Church: besides, he caused to be made, three tuneable Bells for the Steeple, two to the honour of Saint Alban, and the third to Saint Amphibalus, which he appointed to be rung at nine a clock every night; whereupon it was called the Corfue, or cover fire bell. 25 After Roger, succeeded john of Berkamstede, of whom because he did nothing memorable in his life time, nothing shall be spoken in this present page; Sed taman Lectorem monemus (saith the Book) ut convertatur ad pietatis opera, et omnipotenti deo pro eius anima preces fundat. 26 john Marines gave a Censer to his church, of a great price, besides many other necessaries. 27 Hugh his successor, enlarged the revenues of his church with many fair possessions, and obtained of Edward the second, diverse great gifts, with a crucifix of gold, beset with precious stones; a cup of silver of great value, gilt, diverse Scottish relics. Timber to repair the Choir, and one hundred pound in money. Quid fuit, est, et erit, cur non homo discere querit? Spuma fuit, fumus est: putrida fiet humus. 28 Abbot Richard, endued with all kinds of learning, both moral and divine, suffered great tribulation in his time, in the defence of the rights of his church. He gave a clock to the same, the like of it was not in England. 29 Of Michael the Abbot I have spoken before. 30 Upon the death of Michael, Thomas the Prior of Tinmouth was preferred to this monastery: he sustained innumerable crosses and perturbations, during the time of his being at Tinmouth, as also here at Saint Albans: yet brought all to a prosperous end, and adorned his church more richly, than any one of his Predecessors; the particular gifts that he gave to the same, cost him above four thousand pound. Est Abbas Thomas, tumulo presente reclusus Qui vite tempus sanctos expendit in usus. 31 The next Abbot was john Moot, qui multa fecit diebus suis memoranda, saith my Author, of whom this Epitaph. M. C. quater vint. quint. Claudis heic membra joannis, Qui dignis laudibus veteranis occidit annis: Intus confratres bene rexit, post fuit Abbas Constans ut josua, Zelans legem ut H●lias. Simplicitas vite qua noscitur esse columbe. Simonis et jude (pie pastor) cras rapuit te. Omnem patratum Christus purgando reatum, Nobis sublatum te mun●ret his sociatum. 32 William his next successor, was vir suis in temporibus tam deo delectus quam hominibus, and performed many great works of piety. He died about the year 1434. for whom I find this Epitaph. Conditus his recubat fatali sort Guilelmus Albani Pastor qui gregis aptus erat: Reperit illustrem celesti munere famam, Quam nequit in tanto mors abolere viro. 33 But now I come to john of Whethamstede, (a village in this shire, plentiful in wheat) (wherein the said john was borne, and thereupon had his denomination,) who was Abbot of this house, in the reign of Henry the sixth, a man much renowned for his due desert of learning, for his godly life and conversation, for his pleasant disposition, and for the charges he was at, and the means he made, to adorn and enrich his Church and monastery. Out of a Manuscript in Sir Robert Cottons rich Library, entitled, Gesta paucula Abbatis johannis Sexti, I collected thus much of his particular actions. john, the sixth Abbot of this house, of that christian name, that he might outwardly show, saith the book, how inwardly he loved the beauty of the house of God, and how much he desired to deck and embellish the habitation of the most holy; first he caused our Lady's chapel to be new trimmed, and curiously depicted, with stories out of the sacred word: upon the south side whereof, these verses were curiously depensed in gold. Dulce pluit Manna partum dum protulit Anna, Dulcius ancilla dum Christus crevit in illa. Upon the north side these. Flos Campi dicta tibi questio ...... puella Floris habens picta venerari fronde capella. In the roof about the picture of the Lamb. Inter oves Aries regat ut sine cornibus agnus: Under the picture of the Eagle. Inter aves Aquila veluti sine fell columba. He built a little Chapel in the south part of the Church for his own burial place, in which under certain pictures in the windows, he caused these verses to be inscribed. Propicij Patres, compassive quoque matres Orat, ut oretis, sua quod sit pausa quietis Vester adoptatus hic filius intumulatus. The north part of his Church being somewhat dark, he caused new windows to be made, and glazed, to make it appear more light and glorious; and in the glass, under the images of certain heathen Philosophers, which had testified of the incarnation of jesus Christ; these Hexameters were inscribed. Istac qui graderis hos testes si memoreris: Credere vim poteris proles Deus est mulieris. Under the picture of joseph of Arimathia in another window. Ad Britones ivi postquam Christum sepelivi, Glasconiam veni, britons docui, requievi. Under the pictures of the four Doctors of the Church. Bina per hec paria fidei quod gignit alumpna Firma stat Ecclesia, quadra fulcita columpna. And that he might further illuminate his Church, he caused a fair large window to be made anew in the West end of the said North Isle. Upon the erection of which these rhymes were composed. In patria boree quo plus durabilis in se, Fertur petra fore factor fuit ipse fenestre, Que nunc erigitur in ea quoque parte locatur; Totius Ecclesie que fertur clarior esse, Eius & occiduam bene ditat lumine finem. He made a reverend kind of embroidered vesture, for himself and his successors, to use when they were to enter into their Sanctum Sanctorum: he made a new Mitre, and a Pastoral staff. Upon which this metre was carved. Postquam sex annis benedixit dextra johannis Wethamsted, pepulum fecerat hunc baculum. For the use and honour of the holy Altar, he made a Chalice of pure gold, a pair of silver censers; a pair of silver Basins gilt. Upon which were engraven the similitudes of a Lamb and an Eagle, with these rhyming verses. Peluis post latices ut lota manus veniales Conficiat calices: prius annuat Agnus & Alice Upon the pictures of Christ, the blessed Virgin, Saint Alban, and the sacred Host, as they were to be carried in the Cloister, or into the Town; he caused diverse verses to be written, to bring the people into a reverend regard of the same. Vt jesus & matter, noster simul Protomartyr Acetu populi deberent plus venerari. Instituit, varia quibus & veneratio dicta Crevit, & Ecclesie cultus fuit amplior in se. Of all his pious acts which he performed for the ornament of his Church, thus much is written (briefly) in the same book. In cappis, casulis, Albis, simul & tunicellis, Inque bonis aliis varijs magis ac preciosis; Precessit patres pater hic cunctos preeuntes. Plus coluit que Deum, cur recolamus eum. In like manner he trimmed up his Monastery, with curious painted imageries and diverse inscriptions in golden letters. In his own lodgings. Dote licet multa tua sit species bene culta, Mos nisi nubat ei dos simplicis est speciei. Ortus magnorum quamuis sis stirpe deorum; junge tibi morem facis ortum nobiliorem. Inter eos quos fama deos in honore levavit; Sors famulos, mors discipulos in sine probavit. In the walk betwixt the Hall and the Abbot's Chamber: Hec in regnante duo sunt contraria valde, Sedis apex primus, probitatis spiritus ymus. Sis Dux munificus, sis prudens, sisque benignus, Tresque Duces simul es Aeneas, Titus, Vlixes. Non bene concessum princeps regit ille Ducatum, Concilio procerum qui non regitur sapientum. judex quando sedes caneas ne iura supines jure quidem tradito. Plebs Rex est, Rex sine regno? In the windows of the Abbot's Study, or Library. Cum studeas, videas, ut sit virtus & honestas; Hic & ubique tibi finalis causa studendi. Hec loca sceptrigere pudeat sacrate sophy Hoc ad opus trahere quod mandat Martha Marie. Huius amore loci regimen postponere noli. Quo minor esca gregi detur magis esurienti. In the Chamber adjoining to his Study. Condere ne timeas quicquid persuadet honestas: Gratia propositis semper respondet honestis. He gave a great Basin of silver double gilt, to the Monastery, which he thus engraved about the Verge. Dic quisquis fueris bene domi si memoreris Quis fueratque dator, nunqui suus esse precator, Sive prees ve subes, propter donum tenearis. Si ●ic horror te pro donatore precare; Dicque perhennis e● sit lux que locus requiem. In a Chapel which he built for the Covent, these verses. Turma senectutis, plebs egra, cohorsque salutis In vestris precibus Are sacra cum celebratis; Hanc propter fabricam sextum memorate johannem. After this manner did he adorn, new build, and enrich both his Church and Abbey; and in all his new buildings or repair, he caused the pictures of a Lamb and an Eagle to be thereupon drawn or depicted with these verses following; which you may read upon the roof or top of the Choir in the Abbey Church at this day. Dic ubicunque vides sit pictus ut Agnus & Alice Effigies operis, sexti sunt ista johannis Parte vel in toto in visse, vel in faciendo Est opus hoc unum causavit eum faciendum. He built much at his Manor of Tittenhanger not far from hence, and in his Study there inscribed these verses. Ipse Iohannis amor Whethamslede ubique proclamor, Eius & alter honor hic lucis in ange reponor. In a Chapel there which he much enlarged, he caused to be painted upon the walls the similitudes of all the Saints of his own Christian name of john: with his own picture, which seemingly thus prayeth. Cum fero par nomen, par far precor simul omen; Tum paribus que pari, licet impar, luce locari. He repaired or rather built anew the Church of Redburne, and consecrated the altar again: over which these verses were written upon the wall. M. semel x. terno C quater ● quoque querno Ara resecrata, domus hec varijsque novata. Upon the covering or roof over the Chancel, under the pictures of the Lamb and Eagle, these. Ecce pecus mundi to●lens peccata rotundi. En et avis, celi reserans arcana fideli. En pecus en et avis, opus en sextique johannis. He built a Library in the Monks College in Oxford, to which he gave many books, in some of which he writ these verses. Fratribus Oxonie datur in munus liber iste. Per patrem pecorum Prothomartyris Angligenorum. Quem siquis rapiat ad partem sive reponat. Vel jude laqueum, vel furcas sentiat Amen. In other of the books which he gave to the said Library, these. Discior ut docti fieret nova regia plebi Culta magisque Dee datur hic liber ara Minerue, His qui dijs dictis libant holocausta ministris. Et Cirre bibulam sitiunt pre Nectare lympham, Estque librique loci, idem dator, actor et unus. He built also a Chapel adjoining to the Library, and in the principal window under the pictures of the Crucifix, the Virgin Mary, and Saint john Baptist, he caused these deprecatory times to be put in the glass. Mors medicina necis; via vite, pax populatus, Sis spes prompta precis, lex cure, laus Monachatus. Ma●ris mesticia, mors prolis, vulnera quina, Sint m●a leticia fati pulsante ruina. Virgins' imbutor, fidei fortiss●me tutor, Nominis ut reputor seror omnis oro secutor. He bestowed great charges upon the Abbot's lodging-house in London. By his wisdom he did so mediate with Vmfrey, Duke of Gloucester, that he g●ue to this Church (ornatus vestimentorum) a suit of vestments worth three thousand marks; with the Manor of Pembroke in South Wales, for that the Monks should pray for his soul; and chose this Church for the place of his burial. Upon which, these rhymes. Vltraiam dicta, que sunt numero satis ampla, Dives item cella Penbrok à plebe vocata: Per patris media fuit Ecclesie propriata; Ossa tegique sua legit, Propriator, in ipsa. He gave much to the Churches of Winslow and Newenham, and other Churches in London. He gave a chalice of pure gold and of great weight to the Priory of Tinmouth, where he was brought up as a Scholar, a Chalice to Wallingford, another to the Church of Worcester. An estimate of his charitable and pious devotions to this and other Churches, you may see in these two lines, beside what money and goods he bequeathed upon his deathbed. Summa prius dicta si sit sine fraude quotata Bister millenas fertur transcendere libras. And, preter gesta iam dicta, saith the book, fecit Abbas prefatus multa alia opera bona que non scripta in libro hoc. Hec antem scripta sunt ut glorificetur deus in omnibus, qui dedit servulo suo gratiam ad peragendum hec paucula in diebus suis. Et ut ea legant Fratres, atque legentes, ut ardentior●m habeant appetitum ad orandum in specie pro anima eius. He was a general good scholar; some fourscore and odd several Treatises are set down in this book of Saint Albon, written by this Abbot. Before the names whereof these verses. Nomina librorum cum contentis & eorum Quos frumentalis domino pressante, johannes Fecit vel scribi, fieri vel, vel renovaui. Hic subscribuntur mentaliter ut teneantur. He gave over his charge for a time, and undertook it again a little before his death, which happened in the reign of Edward the fourth. He was buried in his own Chapel which he had provided in his life time. To whose memory this Epitaph was made by one of the Monks. Contegit iste lapis venerabilis ossa johannis Epit. johannis Whe●hams●ede. Whethamstede, Abbas hic qui fuit eius in annis: Ter doctus, doctos & amans, & eye miseratus. Nec frauds patience curarum Presbyteratus. In lubricos Phinees, in adulterijsque johannes Extitit; ymo Petrusin omnes Symonianos'. Insuper in laceris domibus mansisque vetustis, Sic reparator erat, sic reparando novabat: Quod sibi preteritus non sit compar Pater ullus. Sive coequalis manet impar rebus in istis Marcas millenas decies numero repetitas Scripta ferunt post se que liquerat exposuisse: Pro dilectoris anima tui dulciter ora Albani sancti conventus qualibet hora: His next successor was john Stoke, of whom, as also of all the rest in the Catalogue, I have already spoken: and now I will return back again to the rest of the Epitaphs and Inscriptions which I find in the Church. In a wall in the body of the Church over a vault. Vir Domini verus iacet hic Heremita Rogerus Roger and one S●gare two Hermits. Et sub eo clarus meritu Heremita Sigarus. Memoriale Domini Thome Rutland quondam subprior is huius Monasterij qui ex luce migravit M. ccccc.xxi. cuius anime propitietur altissimus. Tho. Rutland Subprior. Amen. Ecce sacerdos eram, Rich S●ondon Priest. iam factus vile cadaver, Et cito puluis erit queso memento mei. Siste gradum qui ad me venit hic, & funde, precator▪ Me deus ut levet, & ducat ad usque polum. Upon his breast on the portraiture, this English Distich is engraven. jesus christ, mary son, Have mercy on the sowl of Richard Stondon. This Town vaunts herself very much of the birth and burial of Sir john Mandevill Knight, Sir john Mandevill knight. the famous Traveller, who writ in Latin, French, and in the English tongue, his Itinerary of three and thirty years. And that you may believe the report of the Inhabitants to be true, they have lately penciled a rare piece of Poetry, or an Epitaph for him, upon a pillar; near to which, they suppose his body to have been buried, which I think not much amiss to set down; for although it will not be worth the reading, yet do but set it to some lofty tune, as to the Hunting of Antichrist, or the like, I know it will be well worth the singing: mark how it runs. All ye that pass, on this pillar cast eye, This Epitaph read if you can; 'Twill tell you a Tomb on●'t stood in this room, Of a brave spirited man. john Mandevill by name, a knight of great fame, Borne in this honoured Town. Before him was none that ever was known, For travail of so high renown. As the Knights in the Temple, crosslegged in marble, In armour, with sword and with shield, So was this Knight graced, which time hath defaced, That nothing but ruins doth yield. His Travails being done, he shines like the Sun, In heavenly Canaan. To which blessed place, O Lord of his grace, Bring us all man after man. That he was borne here in this Town I cannot much deny; but I am sure that within these few years, I saw his Tomb in the City of Liege, within the Church of the religious house of the Guilliammits, with this Inscription upon it, and the verses following hanging by on a table. Hic iacet vir nobilis D. joannes de Mandevile, Al; D. ad Barbam miles; Dominus de Campdi: natus de Anglia, Medicine professor, devotissimus orator; & bonorum largissimus pauperibus erogator qui toto quasi orbe lustrato. Leo. ●ij diem vite sue clausit extremum. Ann. Dom. M.CCC.lxxi. Mens. novemb. die xuj. Aliud. Hoc iacet in tumulo, cui totus patria vivo Orbis erat; totum quem peragrasse ferunt. Anglus Eques que fuit, nunc ille Britannus Ulysses Dicatur, Graio clarus Vlysse magis. Moribus, ingenio, candore, & sanguine clarus Et vere cultor Relligionis erat. Nomen si queras, est Mandevil; Indus Arabsque, Sat notum dicet finibus esse suis. The Churchmen will show you here his knives, the furniture of his horse, and his spurs, which he used in his travels. Will. Smith, and Elis his wife. Vndyr this Ston lieth buried here He that whilom was Balyff of this town, called somtym William Smyth Esqwyere To whom of his Sins God grant remission. Elisabyth his wyff a woman of renown Here lieth alsoo enterryd in this grav. christ on her sowl have compassion, And grant them in heaven a please to have. Upon the same marble, under the picture of the Cross, these words are engraven, which the foresaid Smith seems to speak. By this token of the holy cross, Good Lord sav our sowls from loss. Elisabeth his wife these. Cryst who died for us on the Rood tree, Sav the sowl of my husband, our children, and me. Here lieth lieth Ralph Rowlat Citizen of London, Ralph Rowlat and joan his wife. Merchant of the Staple, and joan his wife. Which Ralph died, M. cccccxix. on whose. This family is now extinct, and the inheritance divolued by marriage unto the Maynards, as appeareth by an Epitaph upon the wall not long since made for on of the Maynards, who married one of the heirs of Sir Ralph Rowlat knight. To the picture of Christ hanging on the Cross, this inscription was lately to be read upon one of the pillars in the Church. Fly the falsehood of the fiend for he will found the, Dread not my dreadful dooms for I died for the. Cal on me thy saviour christ, I can cheer the My mercy is more than thy miss, I may amend the See how my side was pierced for the, and I shall help the. In this Abbey Church is a goodly Font of solid brass, wherein the king's children of Scotland were wont to be baptised; which Font Sir Richard Lea knight, Master of the pioneers, brought as a spoil out of the Scottish wars, and gave it to this Church. As may appear by this lofty and arrogant inscription about the same; as if the Font in it own person did proclaim the knight's act to all passengers in these words, lately Englished. When Leeth a Town of good account among the Scots, and Edinbrough their chief City were on a fire, Sir Richard Lea knight, saved me from burning, and brought me into England. And I being mindful of this so great a benefit, whereas before I was wont to serve for baptising of none but King's children, have now willingly offered my service even to the meanest of the English Nation. Lea the Victor would have it so. Farewell. In the year of our Lord, M.D.xliii. and of the reign of King Henry the eight xxxvi. These already written are all the Epitaphs or inscriptions which I find in this Abbey Church: howsoever it doth retain the ashes of many a worthy man conquered by death, Egfrid king of the Mercians. both before and since the Conquest▪ As of Egfrid king of the Mercians, son to great Offa the Founder, who added to those twenty Lordships or Manors, wherewith his father at the first endowed this foundation: Ex Reg dea●r. S. Albani in saepe dict. bib: Cott. Terram quinque Maneriorum in loco dicto Pynefeld cum terminis suis antiquis; & manerium de Sauntridge et Tirefeld: Cartas que Patris sui benigne in suae serena concessione confirmavit; pro confirmatione regni sui, & sua prosperitate, nec non pro salute pattern sueque anime, & antecessorum suorum; Ecclesiam suam per omnia salubriter protegendo: saith the golden Register of this Abbey. The first business that this King undertook after he came to the Crown, was the restauration of ancient privileges to the Church, and great hope was conceived of his further proceedings, had not God cut him off by untimely death, the 17. day of September, in the year of our Lord God, 796. and in the first of his reign having had neither wife nor issue. His body with all due obsequies was here Princely interred near to the Shrine of S. Alban. Rob. Mowbray Earl of Northumberland, a Monk. This Abbey Church was likewise honoured with the Sepulture of Robert Mowbray, Earl of Northumberland: whose story out of many writers is in this manner extracted. ●ill Gemmet. Simon Daniel. This Robert Mowbray, a most valiant Soldier, seeing his country destroyed, and overrun even unto Alnewicke castle, by Malcolm King of Scotland and his army, made head against the said Malcolm (not staying for directions from his King William Rufus) and so sore and suddenly distressed his forces, that both king Malcolm himself, and his son Prince Edward were there slain. Mat. Paris. Hereupon this Earl growing proud, and greatly suspected by King William, began to fortify the King's Castles, with munition for Arms against the like invasion, Speed ca ●. and indeed against the Kings will; who sent him word somewhat roughly, to desist from his doings, and presently to repair to his presence; which whilst he lingered and neglected to do, king William sent his brother Henry to spoil Northumberland, and immediately followed after himself, where without much ado, he took the Earl, and committed him prisoner to Windsor Castle. How in vit. Will. Rufi. Ypodig. Neust. This Robert Mowbray and William of Anco, with others, conspired to deprive the King both of Crown and life, and to have set up Stephen de Albamarle his Aunt's son, as Hoveden and Walsingham will have it. But I read in an old Manuscript that he favouring the proceedings of Anselm, Ex lib. Ab. de Newburgh. in bib. Cott. Archbishop of Canterbury, Pro amore & bono Ecclesie innocentem vitam finiebat. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. As the words are. Rex ipsum cum aliis decollari mandavit: The king commanded that he, with others, should be beheaded; his companion Anco being punished with loss both of his eyes, and his virility. Gemmelicensis lib. 7 ca 8. He died in prison, saith one writer, In ipso Ergastulo deficiens mortuus est, regnante Henrico Rege. Whose Lands in Normandy, as also, for the most part, here in England, the said King Henry gave to Nigell de Albeney, viro probo et illustri. Ordorus vitatis. lib. 7. pa. 649. Another writer tells us, that he married Maud, the daughter of Richerius de Aquila, a potent man in the conquerors days, and that after four and thirty years of imprisonment, he died without issue: in these words. Mathildis autem potenti viro Roberto de Molbraio Comiti Norbandum▪ brorum nupsit, qui eodem anno contra Willielmum Rufum Regem Anglorum rebellavit. Sed paulo post captus, fere 34. annis in carcere praefati Regis, & Henrici fratris eius sine prole consenuit. The same Author delivers his marriage thus in another place. Lib. 8. pa. 703. Robertus ut fines suos undique dilataret, & ditissimis contubernalibus affinitate potentum sibi copulatis robustior ardua tentaret; Mathildem generosam virginem Richerij de Aquila duxit quae neptis erat Hugonis Cestrensis Comitis ex sorore nomine judith. And in the said page, he sets down his character, and the number of the Lordships which he possessed here in England, with his great power and riches, thus. Robertus Rogerij de Molbraio filius potentia divitijsque admodum pollebat; audacia et militari feritate superbus pares despiciebat, & superioribus obtemperare, vana ventositate turgidus, indignum autumabat. Erat autem corpore magnus, niger et hispidus: audax & dolosus, vultu tristis ac severus. Plus meditari quam loqui studebat, et vix in confabulatione ridebat. Hic nimirum cclxxx. villas in Anglia possidebat. This man of this high spirit and ample possessions, became in the end to be a shorn Monk of this Monastery, as you may read in the Catalogues of Honour; wherein he died, Ann. 1106. To whose memory a Monk of his order made this Epitaph. Which he caused to be engraven upon his Monument, upon the North side of the Vestry where he was interred. Vir probus & fortis quem virtus nescia mortis Ex vet. M ss. Anon. in saepe dict. bib. Cott. Condecorat, cista iacet hic Robertus in ista; Cui dat cognomen Moulbraia nobile nomen. Norhandunbrorum comes fuit; hic Monachorum Dux erat optatus, prudens, pius, & peramatus: Hic Monachus fidus, hic Martisin agmine sidus, Exijt è terris, huius mundi quoque guerris, Anno milleno Domini centenoque seno Quarta die Februi. Pax sit eique mihi. Amen. Here sometimes was interred the body of Alexander Necham, Alex. Necham. whose knowledge in good Arts made him famous throughout England, France, Italy, yea and the whole world; and that with such incredible admiration, that he was called Miraculum ingenij, the wonder and miracle of wit and sapience. He was an exact Philosopher, an excellent Divine, an accurate Rhetorician, and an admirable Poet. As did appear by many his writings which he left to posterity: Cent. 2. some of which are mentioned by Bale. He was borne in this Town, Camd. in Hert. as appears by a certain passage in one of his Latin Poems, cited by Camden, and thus englished by his Translator Doctor Holland. This is the place that knowledge took of my nativity, My happy years, my days also of mirth and jollity. This place my childhood trained up in all Arts liberal, And laid the groundwork of my name, and skill Poetical. This place great and renowned Clerks into the world hath sent: For Martyr blessed, for nation, for site, all excellent. A troop here of religious men serve Christ both night and day, In holy warfare taking pains, duly to watch and pray. Camden in his Allusions to names, tells us that he, being desirous to enter into religion in this house, after he had signified his desire, writ thus to the Abbot Laconically. Si vis, veniam, sin autem, tu autem. Who answered as briefly, alluding to his name: thus. Si bonus sis, venias, si nequam, nequaquam. Whereupon, saith he, he changed his name to Neckam. A Monk of this house made this Hexamiter allusively to his name. Dictus erat Nequam, vitam duxit tamen equam. He is thought, by some, saith Bale, to have been a Canon Regular, and to have been preferred to the Abbotship of Gloucester: as another in this old language will have it. 〈◊〉 Glocest. And master Alexander that canon was ere I maked was of Gloucestre Abbot thulk yer. viz. 7. Reg. Regis johannis. But this may be understood of Alexander Theologus, of whom I have spoken elsewhere, who was contemporary with him: for I find that this Alexander was Abbot of Saint mary's in Circester, or Cirencester. At the time of his death, which happened about four hundred and thirteen years since. annal de 〈◊〉 M ss. 〈◊〉 bib. Cott. Alexander cognomento Nequam Abbas Cirecestrie literarum scientia clarus: obiit Ann. Dom. 1217. lit. Dom. C. pride. Kal. Feb & sepultus erat apud Fanum S. Albani. cuius anime propitietur Altissimus. Amen. Now if you be desirous further to know how this Abbey Church hath been honoured by the Sepultures of many worthy persons; will it please you peruse these verses following, by which, both her foundation and fall is plainly deciphered. Behold that goodly Fane which ruined now doth stand, 〈◊〉. Drayton Poly●●. Song 16 To holy Albon built, first Martyr of this Land, Who in the faith of Christ from Rome to Britain came, And dying in this place resigned his glorious name. In memory of whom (as more then half Divine) Our English Offa reared a rich and sumptuous Shrine; And Monastery here: which our succeeding Kings, From time to time endowed with many goodly things. And many a Christian Knight was buried here, before The Norman set his foot upon this conquered shore; And after those brave spirits in all those baleful stowers, That with Duke Robert went against the Pagan powers. And in their country's right, as Cressy those that stood, And that at poitiers bathed their bilbowes in French blood; Their valiant Nephew's next at Agincourt that fought, Whereas rebellious France upon her knees was brought. In this religious house at some of their returns, When nature claimed her due, here placed their hallowed urns: Which now devouring Time, in his so mighty waste, Demolishing those walls, hath utterly defaced. So that the earth to feel the ruinous heaps of stones, That with the burth'nous weight now press their sacred bones, Forbids this wicked brood, should by her fruits be fed; As loathing her own womb, that such loose children bred. But I will come to the quarrel of the houses of York and Lancaster, which filled up our Lady's Chapel here, with the dead bodies of the Nobility, slain in and about this Town of Saint Alban; whose funeral Trophies are wasted with devouring time, and seats or pews for the Townsmen made over their honourable remains. Of these Lords here buried, thus writeth the old Poet, john Gower. Quos mors, quos Martis sors saeva, suaeque sororis Bella prostrarunt, villae medioque necarunt, Mors sic occinsos tumulaverat hic simul ipsos, Postque necem requiem causavit habere perennem Et medium sine quo vult hic requiescere nemo; Hic lis, hic pugna, mors est qui terminat arma, Mors, sors, & Mavors qui straverunt Dominos hos. But amongst so many of the Nobility here interred, I find few remembered, save Edmund Duke of Somerset, Henry Earl of Northumberland, and john the valiant old Lord Clifford. The death of this Edmund Duke of Somerset, Edmund Duke of Somerset. grandchild to john of Gaunt, sore grieved King Henry the sixth; because in him he had always put great trust and confidence: being a chief Commander, and one who had long governed Normandy, been Regent of France, and for his country's sake had always right valiantly borne himself against the French. Yet his actions, whatsoever they were, did not please the common people; nor many other of rank and quality in those times. For Harding who lived in those days, thus writ of him. They slew the Duke Edmond, Hard. ca 234. then of Somerset, For cause he had the realms we'll so let. He was slain under the sign of the Castle in the Town, being long before warned (as it is reported) to avoid all Castles. Henry Lord Percy, Henry Earl of Northumberland. Earl of Northumberland aforesaid, was the son of Henry, surnamed Hot-spurr, slain at the battle of Shrewsbury by King Henry the fourth. But his father's offence, and his Grandfathers, being forgiven him, he was restored to his Grandfather's dignities by Henry the fifth, to whom, and to his son Henry the sixth, he ever continued a loyal subject, stoutly maintaining their right to the Crown of England; in which quarrel he here lost his life. The old Lord Clifford here interred, is specially remembered in the battle, for so valiantly defending and strongly keeping the Barre-yates and entrance in the Town; insomuch that the Duke of York had ever the repulse, until great Warwick broke in by a garden side, with a noise of Trumpets and voices, crying, A Warwick, a Warwick. Whereupon ensued that fierce and cruel battle in which this valorous old Lord manfully lost his life. Of these two last remembered, will you read this Stanza. th'earl than of Northumberland was there Of sudden chance drawn forth by the king And slain unknown by any man there were The Lord Clifford over busy in werking At the Bars them met sore fight Was slain that day upon his own assault As each man said, it was his own default. This battle wherein they were slain, was the first battle at Saint Alban, which was fought in the year 1455. the Thursday before Pentecost. john Whethamsted, the fore remembered Abbot, made certain Epitaphs for religious persons, and others here interred; as also in other Churches hereabouts. Which for the most part are now either taken away by time, or stolen away with the brass from their Gravestones; which, howsoever I know not well how to appropriate to the Persons for whom they were intended. Yet it will not be lost labour to take and imprint them out of the Manuscript, for that the Reader may see the rare compositions in that age. 1. Duplex est vita, duplex mors, corporis una; Nominis * astch altra, miserorum mors ea dicta. Non sic hic obijt, non sic hic nunc requiescit, ●mo mors prima fuit illi vita secunda. Et si quod rapere voluit mors id tribuisse Fertur, quasque dare tenebras has surripuisse Estque lucet sic ei lux perpetue requiei. Atque libro vite quo nunc inscribitur ipse, Nomen eius legitur & cum sanctis numeratur. 2. Upon a Prior of this house here buried, who was never beloved in his life time, yet much bewailed after his death. Quem dens momordit livoris dummodo vixit, Linguaque detraxit, mors nunc bene glorificavit. Nunc redeunt varia tumulata prius benefacta; Famaque recrescit, livor post facta quiescit. Nunc acus invidie, lingue fell, serra loquele, Carpere cessarunt: nunc aicere sic didicerunt. Quando cadens obijt abijt pater hicque recessit; Secum dapsilitas secum virtus & honestas. Istius Ecclesie quasi plangentes abiere. Secum claustrale frenum que iugum Monachale Migrarunt eciam; claustro dederantque salutem. Secum vera fides, been secumque sorores, Ibant ad puteum, dixere, locoque tuantem Secum fertilitas, pietas, secumque facultas, Que parcit miseris, sua que confert & egenis: Secum justicia, pax, & lex, & policia. In brevibus quicquia virtutem gignere possit, Secum transivit, abijt, secumque recessit Cur Dominus secum, secum requies in idipsum. 3. Upon a Monk buried in this Church. Alter honestatis Sol serens & gravitatis, Hesperus ac morum, lampas rutilans monachorum, Nunc occultatur; hic sub modio tenebratur. Nec tribuit lumen Claustro quod tribuit olim; Mors eclipsari cansaverat & tenebrari: Est tamen Eclipse he eius particularis. Nam sua seu prima nunc vita latet tenebrata, Altera sic lucet, sic nomen eique resplendet, Quod per defectum nunquam patietur Eclipsim: Nam per vim fame stat mortis vulnus inane; Curio exoretur pro Patre pioque rogetur, Lux quia vera fuit subiectis dummodo rexit Semper perpes ei lux luceat, ac requici. Pausa sit perpetue, vita vinat duplicique, Nominis, ac anime, sic vinere vult meruitque. 4. Upon a Monk of this Abbey here entombed. Quem Natura mirum natu fecit generosum, Grataque sors Dominum, mos atque patrem Monachorum, Nunc abijt, sed non obijt, quia nomine vivit Nec recubat, magis astch vigilat, quia fama superstes, Vestitu Maurus, fuit, in victu Benedictus, Pacomius monitis, Basilius & rudimentis: Nec sibi defuerat ipsum decuit quod habere, Impar nam steterat, & Pater absque pare. Pro Pastore pecus, plebs pro domino gemit omnis, Almaque Sponsa flet cecidisse virum. Astra tamen civem letentur habere perhennem, Exultatque Polus quod sit ei thalamus. 5. Upon a Monk of this house here buried. Qui lacrimans Lazarum revocasti quadraduanum, Ad vitam Monachum revoces sic hic tumulatum. Fac tecumque frui requie cum luce perhenni: Vendicat ex iure, vixit Monachaliter ipse. 6. Upon another Brother of the Covent here interred. Iste Pater, pater iste, pius, Pater hic tumulatus; Et pater, & matter, Pedagogus eratque minister Dum rexit, pecorum fuerat, cur quod tribuendum, Quatuor hijs restat, nunc detur, eique revivat, In voto Fratrum quia tot fuit unus eisdem. Stoque vices que modos alternavit variantes Morte premi talem culpat pietas pietatem. 7. Upon john Cressy a young youth, of the ancient family of the Cressyes, hereby at Harding. Dum puer ipse fui, puer & libroque vacavi, Mortis mole rui, moriens hic me sepelivi. Here's magnus eram, preclara stirpe que natus; Dumque superfueram john Cressy rite vocatus. Qui pretergrederis lege; pro me postque preceris. 8. Upon another young boy, where buried I know not. Que iuuenes que senes, pueros, que viros premit omnes Mors sub mole tua, precor, in te, voce sub ista Sit tibi posse breve; nunquam fatum puerile Per te mutetur, sit canus cum morietur. Vi● undennis eram morsu cum mortis obibam. 9 Dum matter plorat, puer hic in morte laborat; Dumque Petra tegitur rogat ut requies sibi detur. Vt rogat ipsae sibi sit perpes pax requiei. Sic nos clamemus, secum pariterque rogemus, Vt sibi cum requie lux lucescat sine fine. 10. Upon Thomas Pakington slain in the first battle, here in Saint Alban, who was Sword-bearer to Henry Lord Percy, Earl of Northumberland, here also slain, as I have said before. He lies buried in Saint Peter's Church in this Town, with an Epitaph upon a marblestone, to the same effect. Me vis prostravit, me post mortem tumulavit; Hac sub mole petre; perij, seu sic periere Tres magni Domini; fueram tunc scutifer uni Portitor ac gladij: pax sit eique mihi. Ipse Thomas dictus Pakington eramque vocatus. 11. Upon Margaret Biseworth a Maid. Qui legis hec memora iacet hic quod femina clara, Que Margareta fuerat Byesworth vocitata. Hanc mors seva nimis, etas sibi dum iwenilis Infuit, intacto steterat dum corpore Virgo, Peste sua stravit hic stratam & tumulavit. M. semel: x querno: C quater, ter & I. sibi iuncto V. que, die binamartis decies repetita Transijt à seculo sibi propicius Deus esto. 12. Upon john Dunstable an Astrologian, a Mathematician, a Musician, and what not. Musicus hic Michalus alter, nows & Ptholomeus, junior ac Athlas supportans robore celoes, Pausat sub cinere; melior vir de muliere Nunquam natus erat; vicij quia labe carebat. Et virtutis opes possedit unicus omnes. Cur exoptetur, sic optandoque precetur Perpetuijs annis celebretur fama johannis Dunstapil; in pace requiescat & hic sine fine. 13. Upon one Peter, buried in the lower part of this Quire. Petrum petra tegit; qui post obitum sibi legit Hic in fine chori se sub tellure reponi. Petra fuit Petrus petree quia condicionis; Substans & solidus quasi postis relligionis. Hic sibi sub Petra sit pax & pausa quieta. 14. Upon one Peter jones, a Doctor, and a Parson, a confabulatorie Epitaph. Quis iacet hic? Pastor: quis item? graduamine Doctor: Quod nomen? Petrus: cognomen quale? johannes: Annis quot rexit? ter trinis: quot sibi vixit? Lustra bis septem: Quis finis? sanctus eidem: Vixit enim sancte, moriens sic desijt atque. 15. Hic soboles cineris, hic proles & mulieris Compausant; utero pariendi rursus ab uno. Partu puluereo renovatur vitae secundo Et sub perpetuo mors manet exilio. In this Manuscript are diverse other Epitaphs of his making, which I shall meet withal by the way. I had like to have forgotten Alan Strayler, Alan Strayler. the Painter or Limmer out of the pictures, in the golden Register, of all the Benefactors to this Abbey; who for such his pains (howsoever he was well paid) and for that he forgave three shillings four pence of an old debt owing unto him for colours; is thus remembered. Nomen Pictoris Alanus Strayler habetur Qui sine fine choris celeslibus associetur. But it is high time to take leave of the Abbey, which at the first (as you may perceive by the premises) was endowed with much land, and many large privileges, and daily augmented, and successively confirmed by the charters of many of our English and Saxon Kings and Princes; and much enlarged in all by sundry Abbots, and other sincere well-affected persons. So that before the dissolution such were the privileges of this place, that the King could make no secular Officer over them but by their own consent they were alone quite from paying that Apostolical custom and 〈◊〉, which was called * Rom-scot or Peter-pences: whereas neither King, Archbishop, Bishop, Abbot, Prior, nor any one in the kingdom was freed from the payment thereof. The Abbot also (or Monk appointed Archdeacon under him) had pontifical jurisdiction over the Priests and Laymen, of all the possessions belonging to this Church, so as he yielded sub●●tion to no Archbishop, Bishop, or Legate, save only to the Pope of 〈◊〉. This Abbot had the fourth place among the Abbots, which sat as ●●●ons in the Parliament house. Howsoever Pope Adrian the fourth, ●hose surname was Breakespeare, borne hereby at Abbot's Langley, granted this indulgence to the Abbots of this Monastery; that as Saint Alban was distinctly known to be the first Martyr of the English Nation: so the abbot of his Monastery should at all times among other Abbots of Eng●●nd, in degree of dignity, be reputed first and principal. The Abbot and 〈◊〉 of this house were acquitted of all Toll through England. They made justices, ad audiendum & terminandum, within themselves; and no other justice could call them for any matter out of their liberty. They made Bailiffs and Coroners: They had the execution, and return of all Writs, 〈◊〉 goods of all outlaws, with Gaol and Gaol delivery within themselves. And received to their own proper use the Rom-scot (before spoken of) throughout all the County of Hertford. This Abbey was surrendered up by the Abbot and Monks there; by delivering the Covent seal into the hands of ●. Pope: D. Peter: Master Cavendish, and other the King's visitors, the fifth day of December, 1539. It was valued, at a far under ●ate, to be worth of yearly revenue, two thousand five hundred and ten pound, six shillings, penny half penny, q: Saint Peter's Church in Saint Alban. This Church and Churchyard was stuffed full with the bodies of such as were slain in the two battles, fought here at Saint Alban. In which I find a funeral Monument for my valiant countryman, Sir Bertin Entwisell, who fight on the King's party, died of a wound received in the first battle. Upon whose Tomb this Inscription, inlaid in brass, is yet to be read. Here lieth Sir Bertin Entwisel knight, which was borne in Lancaster Shire, and was Vicound and Baron of Brykbeke in Normandy, and Baliffe of Constantin. Who died the xxviii of May, M. cccc.lv. on whose sowl jesus have mercy. Of which Sir Bertin, thus speaketh Leland in his Commentaries. There is a Viscownt of Brykbek in Normandy, saith he, called Bertyne, or Berframe Cnitwesell, that came into England, and was much on the factyon of king Henry the sixth, and slain at on of the Battles at Saint Albon, and buried in the Peroche Chyrch of saint Peter, under the please of the Lectorium in the Quyre, whereas a memorial of him there yet remeyneth. There was a daughter of this Viscount called Lucy, of whom Master Bradene of Northamptonshyre is descended; and in the same Shire is a mean gentleman of that name▪ These Entwisells were gentlemen of good respect in our country in our father's days, whose mansion house retains the name of Entwisell to this hour: The last heir of which house (as I have it out of the collections of M. Dalton, alias Norroy king of Arms) was one Wilfred Entwisell, who sold the land that was left him, and served as a Lance at Muselborrowfield, in the second year of the reign of king Edward the sixth; after that he served the Guyes in defence of Meth. After that he was one of the four Captains of the Fort of Newhaven; where being infected with the plague, and shipped for England, was landed about Portsmouth, and being uncertain of any house, died under a hedge, in September, Ann. 1549. Ralph Bapthorpe the father, Ralph Babthorpe and Ralph his soon. and Ralph the son, of Bapthorpe in the Eastriding of Yorkshire; which for many descents hath yielded both name and habitation to that knightly family; fight in this Town under the banner of King Henry the sixth, lost their lives, and here lie buried together; with this Epitaph. Cum Patre Radulpho Babthorp iacet ecce Radulphus Filius, bot duro marmore pressus humo. Henrici sexti Dapifer, Pater Armiger eius, Mors satis id docuit, fidus uterque fuit. C. Domini quater M. semel. L. semel V. semel anno Hos necat haud solos mors truculenta duos. Lux hijs postrema Maij vicena secunda; Det Deus hijs lucem, des sine fine diem. Behold where two Raulph Babthorps', both the son and father lie, Under a stone of marble hard, interred in this mould dry: To Henry sixth the Father Squire, the son he Sewer was, Both true to Prince, and for his sake they both their life did pass. The year one thousand and four hundred fifty five, Grim death, yet not alone, did them of breath deprive. The last day of their light was th'twentieth two of May: God grant them light in heaven, and without end a day. In the year of Crist on thousand fowr hundred full true with fowr and sixteen Rich. Skipwith. [Richard Skipwith gentleman in birth, late fellow of new Inn. In my age twenti on my sowl parted from the body in August the sixtenth day, And now I lie her abiding God's mercy undyr this stone in clay, desiring you that this fall see, unto the Meyden prey for me That bore both God and man. Like as ye would that oder for ye should, When ye ne may nor can. Hic duo consortes Skipwith que joanna joannes Compa●sant una, generosus & unus, et alter: Vt pariter pausant in pace precare quiescant, Tu qui metra legis, sic quod requiescere possis. Hic iacet Georgius S●ipwith Ar. In this Church are others of this family interred, whose Monuments are quite defa●ed; of which name, Gentlemen of ancient descent, fair possessions, and knightly degree, do at this day flourish at Cotes in the County of Leicester. junior ense rui, fueram tunc Ensiser uni 〈◊〉 Borca comiti, dicto cognomine Percy 〈◊〉 Perij periit sibi, (proh dolour) ensis ademit Trans●ur sum stadij: pax sit eique mihi: Ipse Thomas dictus, Pakington eramque vocatus: Hic iacet Edwardus Beulled Ar. quondam Magister Ludi venatici in 〈…〉 Abbatis de Sancto Albano & Alicia uxor eius, qui Edwardus 〈…〉. M.ccc.lxxv. William Wittor and his wyff Graze, Vndyr this stone been buried her, In hevyn good Lord grant them a please; As thou them bought with thy blood so der. Which William as her hit doth appear. The ninth day of March past this present life, On thousand fowr hundryd and six yer Of Crist; whose graze be their preservatyff. Hic iacet Edmundus Westby quondam Hundredarius Sancti Albani, & 〈◊〉 uxor eius silia & heres Ade Stonham et consanguinea, et heres Alicie 〈◊〉 .... ob. ultimo di● julii M. cccc.xlvii. Hic iacet Cecilia Westby uxor Bartholomei Westby, que obiit 2. julii Ann. M. cccc.lxxxxv. Hic iacet Willelmus Westby quondam Hundredarius et Baliws Libertatis ......... Hic iacet Edmundus Westby Armiger. justiciar. pacis in Com. Hert. et Hundredarius ac Baliws de Franchesia Sancti Albani, et Margareta uxor eius, qui Ed. obiit xviii Septemb. M. cccc.lxxv. Henry the sixth was in this Edmund's house (Hundreder of S. Alban) during the time of the first battle in the Town. Hic iacet Thomas Astry gener. filius Radulphi Astry militis, Tho. Astry and Elis. his wife et Elisabetha uxor eius ●ilia Willelmi Skipwith Armigeri, qui quidem Willel. ob ..... M. ccccc.vii. Hic iacet Richardus Raynshaw Armig. seruiens ad arma Regis Henrici octavi ......... Rich. Raynshaw Sergeant at Arms. Here lieth Thomas Blake gentl. and Maud his wife. Tho. ●lake. Which Tho. died the third of December, 1536. 38. Hen. 8. De Sudeley Domina natus john Lind que vocatus, Io. Lind, Martial of the Kings Hall. Morte ruit stratus hic Armiger intumulatus. Aula Mareschallum quem regia nobilitavit. Egra lues rapuit, raptum cineri sociavit. Supplico qui graderes seu in marmore lumina figes. Ora, cum superis sit sibi pausa pijs. ob. 3. Septemb. Ann. 1464. Hic iacet johannes Bernwel de villa Sancti Albani in Com. Hert. gen. qui obiit .... Io. Bernwell. 1400. Dummodo vixisti quia spemque fidem tenuisti; Ful●or & Ecclesie, cultor fuerasque Marie. Vita, salus, requies tibi cum deitate johannes Sit Bernwel, prima mors, et tua vita secunda. Hic iacet Simon Bernwel qui ob. 28. jan. Ann. 1455. Simon Bernwel. Hic iacet Reginaldus Bernwell qui ob. 12. April. 1477. Reinold Bernwel Here lieth Brian Lockley, who died .... 1507 ...... and Alice Lockley, Brian Lockley. Alice Lockley. who died .... 1546. Here lieth Richard Lockley, Elisabeth and Agnes his wyfs. Rich. Lockley, Elis. and Agnes his wives. Which Richard died, Ann. 1544. for their sowls and all Christian sowls of your cherite, say a Pater Noster and an Ave. Under a marble stone in the Choir a religious man lieth interred, whose name is worn, or stolen out with the brass; only the form of a Rose remaineth: and in the turnings of the leaves this Inscription. Lo all that ere I spent, somtym had I. All that I gav to good intent, that now have I. That which I nether gav nor lent, that now abye I. That I kept, till I went, that lost I. An old translation from these Latin couplets following. Quod expendi, habui. Quod donani, habeo. Quod negavi, punior. Quod servavi, perdidi. Hic iacet Dominus Edwardus Hill miles ordinis Sancti johannis baptist, Sir Ed. Hill knight. qui obiit ..... Ann ... M. cccccxxxvi. This knight was one of the Fraternity of that religious order of S. john's jerusalem; an Hospital. Of which I have spoken in another place. Saint michael's within Saint Alban. john Pecock et Mawd sa ●emme giso●●icy E Dieu de sont alms eit mercy. Amen. Hic iacet Thomas Woluey (or Woluen) Latomus in Arte, nec non Armiger illustrissimi Principis Ric. secundi quondam Regis Anglie qui obijt Anno Dom. M. ccccxxx. in vigilia Sancti Thome Martyris. Cuius anime propiti●tur Deus. Amen. This man, as far as I understand by this Inscription, was the master Mason or Surueior of the king's stone-works; as also Esquire to the King's person. Hic iacet Richardus Wolven, or Woluey Lathonius filius Iohannis Woluen cum ux 〈…〉 Agne●e & Agnete, & cum octo ●iliis & decem filiabus suis, qui Richardus ob ..... Ann. 1490. quorum animabus. 〈◊〉 Priest. Vertitur in cineres isto sub marmore corpus Willelmi Lili, spiritus astra petit. Quisquis es hoc facies, supplex pia numina poscas, Vt sibi concedat regna beata poli. Saint Stephens within Saint Alban. 〈…〉 his wife. Hic iacent Willelmus Robins Armiger nuper Clericus Signeti Edwardi quarti nuper Regis Anglie; & Katherine uxor eiusdem Willelmi, qui quidem Willielmus obijt iiij. die Mensis Novembris, Ann. Dom. M. cccclxxxij. 〈◊〉 animabus ..... Clericus Signeti, or Signetti, Clarke of the Signet, is an officer continually 〈◊〉 attendant on his Majesty's Secretary, who always hath the custody of the privy Signet, as well for sealing his Majesty's privy letters, as also 〈◊〉 grants as pass his Majesty's hands by Bill assigned; Of these there be 〈◊〉 that attend in their course, and were used to have their diet at the 〈◊〉 table. More largely you may read of their Office in the Statute 〈◊〉 Ann. 27. Hen. 8. ca 11. Here lieth Robert Turbervile Esquire, and Dorothy his wife, which Robert died 26. Feb. 1529. and Dorothy 7. Octob. 1521. Sancta Trinitas unus Deus miserere nobis. Here lieth Sir john Turbervile Vicar of this Church, who died ..... 1536 ..... Quos tegit hec petra iunxit thorus & domus una, jam puluis factus, William Davy nomine dictus, Cum Margareta sponsali fedore iuncta: Cum prece devota qui transis sta, precor ora. Hic iacet johannes Gril, quondam Magister Sancti juliani, & Vicarius istius Ecclesie, qui ob ..... 6. die Decemb. 1449. Cuius Anime propitietur altissimus. Saint Germans. About the year of the world's redemption, Camd. in 〈◊〉. 429. when as the Pelagian heresy budded forth afresh in this Island, and so polluted the British Churches, as that to aver and maintain the truth, they sent for Germane, Bishop of Auxerre, the place of his birth (a man of moche noble lineage, taught and informed well in the Artes liberalle, learned in the science of the Decretees droytes and law, jac. de voragine in vit. S. Ger. saith his Legend) and Lupus Bishop of Troy's out of France: who by refuting this heresy, gained unto themselves a reverend account among the Britain's. but chiefly German, who hath at this day throughout all this Island many Churches dedicated to his memory. Now, understand, that near to the walls of the old City Verulam, was, as then, a plot of consecrated ground, wherein the bodies of such as had professed Christianity, and suffered martyrdom under the persecution of the Roman Emperors, S. Germane th● burial 〈…〉 many 〈…〉. were interred. In which the said German openly (out of the pulpit) preached God's word to the people; where afterwards the believing Christians built this Chapel, and dedicated it to his honour; for that by his doctrine, and other good means, he had converted many thousands to the true profession of Christian Religion. This Germane commanded the Sepulchre of Saint Alban to be opened, and therein bestowed certain relics of Saints, that those whom one heaven had received, should also be in one Sepulchre together lodged. Camd. in 〈◊〉 Thus much (saith Camden) I note by the way, that ye may observe and consider the fashions of that age. This Chapel, or rather the ruins of it, are remaining at this day, and put to a profane and beastly use. The foundations of Sopwell, S. julian's, and Saint Mary Pree. About this Town of Saint Albon, the Abbots of the Monastery in a pious and devout intent erected a little Nunnery at Sopwell, valued but at threescore and eight pound eight shillings, per annum. Saint julians' spital for Lepers, and another named Saint Mary de Pree, or Saint Mary in the Meadow, Ger●mbery. for diseased weemen. near unto which they had a great Manor, named Gorombery: where Sir Nicholas Bacon knight, Lord Keeper of the great Seal of England, a man of rare wit and deep experience (father of Sir Francis Bacon knight, Lord Verulam, Viscount Saint Al●an, Lord Chancellor of England, lately deceased, one that might justly challenge, as his due, all the best attributes of learning) built an house beseeming his place and calling; and over the entrance into the Hall caused these verses to be engraven. Haec cum perfecit Nicholaus tecta Baconus Inscriptions. Elisabeth regni lustra fuere duo. Factus Eques magni custos fuit ipse sigilli: Gloria sit soli tota tributa Deo. Mediocria firma. Upon the frontispiece of a gate, entering into an Orchard with a garden and a wilderness, over the statue of Orpheus, these verses are depicted. Horrida nuper eram aspectu latebraeque ferarum, Ruricolis tantum numinibusque locus. Edomitor faustò huc dum forte supervenis Orpheus Vlterius qui me non finit esse rudem; Conuocat, avulsis virgulta virentia truncis Et sedem quae vel Dijs placuisse potest. Sicque mei cultor, sic est mihi cultus & Orpheus: Floreat o noster cultus amorque diu. In the said Orchard is a little banqueting house most curiously adorned; round about which the liberal Arts are deciphered, with the pictures of some of those men which have been excellent in every particular Art. And first he begins with the Art of Grammar. Thus. Lex sum sermonis linguarum regula certa, Qui me non didicit caetera nulla petat. The pictures of Donatus, Lily, Servius, and Priscian: Arithmetic. Ingenium exacuo, numerorum arcana recludo, Qui memores didicit quid didicisse nequit. Stifelius, Budeus, Pythagoras. Logic. Divido multiplices, res explanoque latentes: Vera exquiro, falsa arguo, cuncta probo. Aristoteles, Rodulphus, Porphirius, Setonus. Music. Mitigo maerores, & acerbas lenio cur as, Gestiat ut placidis mens hilerata sonis. Arion, Terpander, Orpheus. Rhetoric. Me duce splendescit gratis prudentia verbis jamque ornata nitet quae fuit ante rudis. Cicero, Isocrates, Demosthenes, Quintilian. Geometry. Corpora describo rerum & quo singula pacto Apt sunt formis appropriata suis: Archimedes, Euclydes, Strabo, Apollinius. Astrology. Astrorum lustrans cursus viresque potentes Elicio miris fata futura modis. Regiomontanus, Haly, Coopernicus, Ptolomeus. Redborne. This Redborne in times past was a place renowned, Amphibalus and resorted unto, in regard of Amphibalus the Martyrs relics here found. Who instructed S. Alban in the Christian faith (as I have said before) and for Christ's sake suffered death under Dioclesian. He was surnamed Devanius; for that he was borne upon the river of Dee in Wales, the son of a Prince, saith his Legend. A man (saith Bale) both for learning and good life unmatchable, Bale Cent preaching (and that with happy success) the glad tidings of the Gospel, throughout all the parts of Britain. For, to escape the execution of the Edict of the Emperor, he fled from Verulam (with a great number of such as he had converted) into the kingdom of Scotland, and into the Isle of Anglesey in Wales; whereof he was made Bishop, preaching in all places the true and lively word, disputing and writing against the worshippers of false Gods. But being afterwards apprehended, he was brought to the same place where his Scholar Saint Alban suffered martyrdom, and whipped about a stake, whereat his entrails were tied: so winding his bowels out of his body, was lastly stoned to death, like another Stephen. For whose body some of the persecuted Christians got a stolen burial here at Redborne; from whence it was removed with all celebrity, and enshrined by the relics of (his Scholar) Saint Alban; in the year of Grace 1178. the 25. day of june. Nullum unquam tam iucundum tam salutarem diem videt Verulamium (saith Harpsfeeld) occurrebat enim Martyr martyri, Magistro discipulus, hospes H. spiti, & caelestis cruis concivicaelesti. The Covent of Saint Alban had such a care that his relics should be devoutly preserved, that a decree was made by Thomas then Abbot; that a Prior and three Monks should be appointed for so sacred an office; for which they were to receive twenty pounds yearly allowance. Such was the price and estimation in those days, of the bones and ashes of religious persons, remarkable for their holiness. Cent. 1. This Amphibalus was a rare Linguist, and a profound Divine for those times. He writ a book against the errors of the Gentiles, and certain Homilies upon the four Evangelists, with other learned works mentioned by Bale. Sir Richard Read knight, lieth here entombed. Of whom hereafter, according to my method. Mergate. Near to this Village sometime was a little religious house of Nuns, of which I never read nor heard further, then by an old petition in rhyme, which runs by tradition from one traveller to another, as they pass along this thorrow fare. Upon which I lately happened in a very ancient Manuscript in Sir Robert Cottons Library: and thus it was delivered in their English: the words are significant and modest, if you do not misinterpret. The petytiown of three poor Nuns of Mergate. We three poor Nuns of Mergate, Piteously complaineth to your good estate. Of one Sir johnne of Whipesuade, Who hath stopped our water gate, With too stones and a stake Help us Lord for Cryst his sake. Flamsted. Io. Oundeley. Hic iacet johannes Oundeley Rector istius Ecclesie, et de Barugby Lincoln. Dioces. & Canon in Eccles. Colleg. beat Marie de Warwick, & Camerarius ex parte comitis War. in Scaccario Domini Regis, qui obijt 7. Maij, 1414. Miserere miserator, quia vere sum peccator, Vnde precor licet reus miserere mei Deus. Here are in this Church three wondrous ancient Monuments, whose inscriptions are quite perished, supposed by the Inhabitants to have been made for certain Noblemen, Lords of this Manor. Which may very well be true, by these words of our grand Antiquary Master Camden. Somewhat above (saith he) Flamsted showeth itself upon the hill, which in the time of King Edward the Confessor, Leosstane the Abbot of Saint Alban gave unto three Knights, Turnot, Waldefe, and Turman, for to defend and secure the country thereby against thieves. But William the Conqueror took it from them, and gave it to Roger Todeney, or Tony, a noble Norman, whose possession it was, but by a daughter it was transferred at length to the Beauchamps, Earls of Warwick. Hempstede. Ro. Albin and Marg. his wife. Upon a fair Tomb of marble and Tuch, inlaid with brass, with the portraiture of a man armed, of goodly lineaments, together with his wife, I read this French Inscription. Roberd Albyn gist icy Et Margarete sa femme ouvike luy Deiu de lez Alms eyt mercy. Berkamsted. In the body of this Church stands a stately Tomb, of an antique rich fabric, strangely depainted, whereon the shape of a man in knightly habiliments, with his wife lying by him, are cut in Alabaster, and about the verge of a large marble thereunto adjoining, this Inscription engraven in brass. Ric. Torington, and Marg. his wife. Hic iacet Richardus Torynton & Margareta uxor eius, qui quidem Richardus obijt 4. die Martij .... 1306. & Margareta ob. 9 Martii 13 ... This Torynton, as I have it by relation, was the founder of this Church, a man in special favour with Edmond Plantagenet, Duke of Cornwall; who was son of Richard Plantagenet, second son of king john, Earl of Cornwall, and king of the Romans. Which Richard full of honours and years, ended his life here at his Castle of Berkamsted, but was buried at his Abbey of Hales. Of whom hereafter. Here are diverse Tombs to the memory of the name of Waterhouse, whose inscriptions of antiquity are all taken away with the brass, and the careful preserving of the rest altogether neglected. Hic iacent johannes Waterhouse, & Margaret uxor eius ..... Ecce sub hoc tumulo coniux uxorque iacemus Io. Waterhouse and Marg. his wife. Eternam pacem donet uterque Deus. Nil unquam abstulimus, si quid benefecimus ulli, Est qui pro meritis premia digna dabit. Est tamen una salus Christi miseratio, quam qui Transis, ambobus sepe prec●re Deum. Hic iacet Richardus Westbroke qui obiit 29. Septemb. 1485. supplicans vobis, Ric. Westbroo●● ex charitate vestra, pro anima sua dicere Pater Noster & Ave. Here lieth Katherine the wife of Robert Incent, Katherine 〈◊〉 the father and mother to john Incent, Doctor of the Law; who hath done many benefits, and ornaments to this Chapel of St. john Baptist ..... the twel●th year of Henry the eight. This john Incent Doctor of the Law, was Deane of Saint Paul's London, who built in this Town a free-school, allowing to the Master a stipend of twenty pound per annum. And to the Usher ten pound, which was confirmed by Act of Parliament. Here lieth Robert Incent, Robert 〈◊〉 late Servant to that noble Princess Cicely, Duchess of York, who died of the sweeting sickness, the first year of Henry the seventh. Hic iacet Edwardus de le hay. ... Ed. Hay. 1510. This is an ancient name, flourishing ever since the reign of Hen. the second. Stow. Annal. Hic iacet Margarita Briggs que ob. 17. Aug. 1374. Marg. Briggs. Here is an ancient monument to the memory of one john Raven Esquire, Io. Raven. who died in the year 1395. Under the Arms of King Edward the sixth, painted upon a table, these verses. Quid sextum dicis? nulli virtute secundus, Ingenio nulli, nullus in arte prior: Edwardi insignis sunt haec insignia? Iudi●. In Signis illum deliniare nequis. Under the cote and crest of Doctor Incent, these Hexameters. Mira cano, nondum denos compleverat annos Cum Pater est Patriae Edwardus, Musisque Patronus▪ Ille tuis avibus sublatas reddidit alas Incenti; obtusis aciem pugionibus ille. Ille cruci vires, Infanti adiecit amictum; Ille Rosam suavi perfudit odore caducam. Kings Langley. So named of the King's house thereunto adjoining, wherein Edmund Plantagenet, Foundation 〈…〉. the fifth son of King Edward the third, was borne; and thereupon surnamed Edmund of Langley. Hereby was a religious House for preaching Friars, founded by Roger the son of Robert Helle, an English Baron, Edmund Planginet Duke of York, Isabella his wife. valued to be yearly worth at the suppression, one hundred and fifty pound fourteen shillings eight pence; in the Church of this monastery the foresaid Edmund was interred. He was Lord of Tindale, Earl of Cambridge, and Duke of York. He married Isabella, second daughter and one of the heirs of Peter, King of Castille and Leon, who died before him in the year 1393, and was buried in this Friary; by whom he had issue Edward Earl of Rutland, Duke of Albamarle and York; Richard Earl of Cambridge, and a daughter, whose name was Constance. He had a second wife whose name was joan, daughter of Thomas Holland, Earl of Kent; who after his death was married to William Lord Willoughby of Eresby, to Henry Lord Scroop, and to Henry Bromflet, Lord Vescy. He is reckoned for one of the Knights of the Garter, and in the absence of his father in France, is said to be Protector of the Realm of England. He is much commended for his affability and gentle deportment, as also for his valour; of which will you hear my often alleged Author, Io. Harding. Cup 182▪ 18.4 Sir Edmond Langley full of gentleness: Sir Thomas Woodstok full of courage. For his valour in another Chapter thus. At which battle, duke john of Gaunt indeed, And his brother Edmond then fought full sore: Were never two better knights than they indeed, That better fight upon a field afore. It was but grace that they escaped thore. They put theimselfes so far forth ay in prees That wounded were they both full sore, no lees. This renowned Duke deceased (saith Stow) in the year 1402. the third of Henry the fourth, and was here buried near to his wife, with two of his brethren, who died young. Pierce Gaveston Fade of Cornwall. Here sometime lay entombed the body of Pierce Gaveston (a Gascoigne borne) Lord of the Isle of Man, and Earl of Cornwall. A man in such favour with Edward the second (having before ensnared his youth by the allurements of a corrupt life) that he had from the said King whatsoever could be poured upon him. For though it might seem incredible (saith Speed out of the book of Dunstable) he both gave him his jewels and ancestors treasure, and even the Crown itself of his victorious father: not sticking to profess (if it lay in him) he should succeed him in the kingdom. But his insolency, and presumption upon the king's favour, made him so far to forget himself, as that he scorned the best of the Nobility, as much as they hated him: miscalling and giving them scoffs, with bitter jests; which left behind them a sour remembrance, and the sting of revenge. Of all which my old timer who flourished about those days, thus speaketh more seriously in Prose. Rob. Glocest. Peries went into the kyngys' treasury in ye Abbey of Westminstre (saith he) and yer took away a table of gold with the tressel, and * other oyer rich juwels, the which were sumtym king Arthurys: and him he took to a merchant yat haet Aymery of Friscomband, and bar 'em over the see into Gascoigne, and yay were never brought again, yat was great harm to yet Reme. And this Sure Peries greatly despysyd the Lordys of ye land, and at yat tym Sure Peries * called. clupyd Robard of Clare ye Earl of Gloucetre Hore sone and ye Earl of Penbrok, joseph ye jew, and ye Earl of * Lincoln. Nycol, Sure Henry de Lacie Brokbely, and * Guy▪ Gowy of Warwick Black hound of Ardern, and also he clupyd ye nobi● and gentle Earl of Lancastre * earl or chulle. Eherle, and oyer many despites he s●yd to ye Lordys of england wherefore yay weryn sore aggrieved. And so much aggrieved they were, that they surprised him in the night at a village or manor called Dathington, or Deddington, between Oxford and Warwick, from whence Guy Earl of Warwick took him to his Castle of Warwick, where in a place called Blacklow (afterward Gaveshead) his head was stricken off the nineteenth of june, 1311. at the commandment and in the presence of the Earls of Lancaster, Warwick, and Hereford, as of one that had been a subverter of the Laws, and an open Traitor to the kingdom. A violent and unadvised part of these Lords, to put to death an Earl so dearly loved of the King, without any judicial proceeding by trial of his Peers: which caused a lasting hatred betwixt the King and his Nobles, and was the beginning of the second civil war of England. Some two years after this Tragedy, King Edward caused the body of his Gaveston to be transferred, with great pomp, from the place of his former burial (which was among the Friar's Preachers at Oxford) to this Friary of his own foundation (saith Stow.) Where he in person with the Archbishop of Canterbury, four Bishops, many Abbots, and principal Churchmen did honour the Exequys, but few were present of the Nobility; whose great stomaches would not give them leave to attend. This was the end of that fatal great Favourite Gaveston, who, for that he was the first Privado (saith Sam. Danyel in the life of Ed. the second) of this kind ever noted in our History, and was above a King in his life, deserves to have his character among Princes being dead. Which is thus delivered. Native he was of Gascoine, Pierce Gaveston described. by birth a Gentleman; and for the great service his father had done to this Crown, entertained and bred up by king Edward the first, in company with his son this Prince, which was the means that invested him into that high favour of his; He was of a goodly personage, of an haughty and undauntable spirit, brave and hardy at Arms, as he showed himself in that Turneament which he held at Wallingford, wherein he challenged the best of the Nobility, and is said to have foiled them all; which inflamed the more their malice towards him. In Ireland where he was Lieutenant, during the short time of his banishment, he made a journey into the mountains of Dublin; brake and subdued the Rebels there, built Newcastle in the Kerns country, repaired castle Kevin, and after passed up into Munster and Thomond, performing every where great service with much valour and worthiness: He seems to have been a Courtier, which could not fawn nor stoop to those he loved not, or put on any disguise upon his Nature to temporize with his enemies. But presuming upon his fortune (the misfortune of such men) grew in the end to that arrogancy as was intolerable; which the privacy of a King's favour usually begets in their Minions; whose understanding and judgement being dazed therewith, as is their sight, who stand and look down from off high places, never discern the ground from whence they ascended. And this extraordinary favour showed to one, though he were the best of men, when it arises to an excess, is like the predomination of one humour alone in the body, which endangers the health of the whole, and especially if it light upon unworthiness, or where is no desert; and commonly Princes raise men rather for appetite, than merit: for that in the one they show the freedom of their power, in the other they may seem but to pay their debt. This old Latin rhyme was made in those days, upon the death of this Gaveston: by a Monk of S. mary's York. Dum Petrus sevit propriam mortem sibi nevit Nunc patet ut nevit, truncatus ense quievit. Besides his honours before remembered, he was Protector or Guardian of the Realm, during the King's abode in France, about his marriage with Isabella, the daughter of Philip the fair French King; which indeed was an office but of eighteen days continuance, as appears by the sequel. 〈◊〉. Turr. 〈◊〉. Petrus de Gaveston comes Cornubie constituitur Custos Anglie quandiu Rex fuerit in partibus transmarinis, etc. Teste R. apud West. 26. Decemb. Ann. 1. Ed. 2.1 pars. pat. Hic transfretavit Rex ad partes transmarinas, prout patet in rotulis clansarum & sinium, circa 20. januar. et redijt circa 8. Feb. Ann. 1. Ed. 2. The same year he honoured him with the lieutenancy of Ireland. Rex misit Petrum de Gaueston comitem Cornubie ad parts Hiber●ie, & constituit ipsum Locumtenentem in partibus eiusdem, quamdiu, etc. Teste R. apud Redings, 16. junij, Ann. 1. Ed. 2. To conclude then with a late writer. .... Great men too well graced, much rigour use, S. Dan●●ll. Presuming Favourites mischief ever bring: So that concluding I may boldly speak. Minions too great argue a king too weak. Richmansworth. In the Chapel or burial place of the ancestors of the Ashbyes' now living, this Inscription. Anne Ashby. Here lieth Anne Ashby wife of john Ashby of Herfeld Esqwyre daughter of Thomas Peyton of Iselham Esqwyre; who died 22. Oct. 1503. on whose sowl jesus have mercy. Amen. heresy buried undyr this stone The 〈◊〉 Alice and joan his wives. Thomas Davy and his too wyfs, Alis and jone. Watford. Hic iacet Hugo de Holes miles, Sir ●ugh 〈◊〉. ●night, and Margaret his wife. I●sticiarius Banci Regis tempore regui 〈◊〉 Ann. 1415. Hic iacet Margareta que fuit uxor Hugonis Holes ..... ob. 1416.5. die Marcijs. Here lieth john Heydon of the Grove Esquire, I●hn Heydon▪ W●ll● He●don and 〈◊〉 his mother who died ... 1400.. Here lieth .... William Heydon of Newstreere Esquire, and joan his mother, who builded the south Isle of this Church, and died, Ann. 1505. Here lieth .... William Heydon .... 1500. The rest of the inscriptions for these Heydons' are quite gone; a name of singular note and demerit in other parts of this kingdom: the loss of one of which name is at this hour much lamented, namely, of Sir William Heydon knight, a worthy gentleman, a valiant Soldier, and an expert Engineer: who came unfortunately to his end at the Isle of Rhee. An. Dom. 1027. Hic iacet johannes de Hakom & Matildis uxor eius qui obiit 4. die Aug. Ann: 1365. Ed. 3.39. Io. de H●kom and A● and his wife. In this Church are diverse funeral Monuments to the memory of the much honoured families of the russel's, and Morisins. Of whom I shall have occasion by order of method to speak hereafter. Aldenham. Here lieth buried the body of john Long, Io. Long Alderman and ●ady Margaret his wife. saltyr Citizen, and Aldyrman of London, and Dame Margaryt his wyff: which john died the vi day of july, M. Vc.xxxviii. Who's sowl jesus pardon. This man was Sheriff of London in the year 1528. borne he was at Berkamsted in this County, being the son of William Long, of the same, gentleman, anciently descended from the Longs of Wiltshire, and father he was to john Long of Holme Hall, in the County of Derby gentleman; who was father to George Long Esquire, now living, Clerk of the office of Pleas in his Majesty's Court of Exchequer, and one of his Majesty's justices of Peace within the County of Midlesex. He lived after he was made free of London (which was in the eleventh of Hen. the sevent) 43. years. Augusti, Ed. Brooke. ter quingeni, si dempseris unum, Et ter, tres, decies, ut erat verbum caro factum Trux lux undena; miseris subtraxit Asylum, Patronum patrie; decus orbis, lampada morum. Quem decorant Latria, sapientia, spesque fidesque. Scilicet Edmund Brook: saluetur ut ipse precemur. If you will take my construction of this intricate Epitaph, this man (here so much commended) died the eleventh day of August, M. cccc. lxxxx. Here lieth john Pen who in his lusty age Io. Penne. our Lord list call to his mercy and graze; Benign, and courteous, free withoutyn rage; And Sqwire with the Duc of Clarence he was. The eighteenth day of jun death did him embrace: The yer from Crists incarnatioon A thousand fowr hundred seventy and oon. 〈◊〉. Dentwell & Christian his wife. Hic iacent johannes Dentwel .... & Christiana uxor ... 1388. Here lieth William Warner and joan his wife. Which William died .... Will. Warner & joan his wife. 1531. and joan 1588. on whose sowls: Here undyr this marble stone lieth Lucas Goodyer departed and gone; It pleased the Lord God in Octobre the tenth day, She being in childbed deceased withoutyn nay; And Edmond her life son lieth her by, On whose souls jesus have mercy. 1547. Ralph Stepney. Here lieth Ralph Stepney Esquire, the first Lord of the Lordship of this Town of Aldenham, and Patron of this Church. Who died 3. Decemb. 1544. on whose sowl jesus have mercy. Amen. In the South wall of this Church the proportion of two weemen lie cut in stone, who (as I have it by relation) were two Sisters here entombed, the builders of this Church, and coheires to this Lordship, which at their deaths gave the said Lordship to the Abbey and Covent of Westminster. Here is now the seat of that right honourable Lord, Sir Edward Carey, knight, Baron of Falkland, lately Lord Deputy of Ireland. Some of which family lie here fairly entombed. South Mimmes. A seat of a worshipful family of the Coningesbies', saith Camden, descended to them by Frowick, from the Knolles, ancient possessors thereof. In the Belfry of this Church is a goodly marble stone inlaid all over with brass, under which one of the Frowicks' lieth interred. A gentleman who made his recreations for the good of his neighbours, as appears by his Epitaph, composed by john Wethamsted, Abbot of S. Alban aforesaid. Hic iacet Thomas Frowick Armig. qui obiit 17. Mens. Februar. 1448. & Elisabetha uxor eius, The Frowick & Elis. his wi●e. que ob— 1400— ac pueri eorundem quorum animabus propitietur altissimus. Amen. Qui iacet hic stratus Thomas Frowick vocitatus, Moribus, et natu, victu, gestu, moderatu Vir generosus erat, generosaque gesta colebat. Nam quod amare solent generosi, plusque frequentant Aucupium volucrum, venaticumque serarum, M●ltum dilexit vulpes foveis spoliavit, Axe Taxos caveis; breviter quecunque propinquis Intulerant damp●a, pro posse fugaverat ipsa. Inter eos etiam si litis cerneret unquam Accendi faculas, medians extinx●rat ipsas, Fecerat et pacem. Cur nunc pacis sibi pausam Det Deus et requiem, que semper permanet. Amen. Standon. In the Choir of this Church lieth entombed the body of Sir Ralph Sadleir, Sir Ralph Sadleir knight Banneret. the last knight Banneret of England; privye Counsellor to three Princes. A man so advanced (saith Camden) for his great Services and stayed wisdom. He was brought up under politic great Cromwell, Earl of Essex (as appears by the prose and verse engraven upon his Monument) who, when he came to man's estate, employed him as his Secretary. But Henry the eight conceived so good an opinion of his discreet comportement, and ingenious pregnancy, that he took him from the service of the said Cromwell about the twenty and sixth year of his reign, made him his principal Secretary; and used his advice in matters of greatest trust and importance, especially in the affairs and passages betwixt the two Realms of England and Scotland. He continued his love towards him to the end of his life; and for the special trust and confidence he had in his approved wisdom and fidelity, together with the Earl of Arundel, the Earl of Essex, and others, he made choice of him for the aiding and assisting of the Executors of his last Will and Testament; by which his last Will (the copy whereof I have in my custody) he gave him two hundred pounds as a Legacy. In the first of Edward the sixth he was chosen Treasurer for the Army sent into Scotland, under the conduct of Edward Duke of Somerset, Protector, and john Earl of Warwick; where, in the battle of Musselborrow, he showed great manhood and prowess. His great diligence, saith Hollinshead, in bringing the scattered troops into order, and ready forwardness in the fray, did worthily merit no small commendations; After which Battle he with Sir Francis Brian, Captain of the light horsemen, and Sir Ralph Vane, Captain of all the horsemen, were honoured for their valiant good service, with the dignity of Knights Bannerets. In the tenth year of the reign of Queen Elisabeth he was preferred, and advanced by her, to the Chancellourship of the Duchy of Lancaster. But his honours and offices are most succinctly engraven upon his goodly Tomb, in these Hexameters. Radulphus Sadlier titulum sortitus Equestrem, Principibus tribus arcanis, a sensibus unus; Auspiciis sum Cromwelli deductus in Aulam Henrici octavi; quem Secretarius omni Officio colui, Regique gregique fidelis. Vexillarum Equitem me Musselburgia vidit; Edwardus sextus Scotiam cum frangeret armis. Ducatu Lancastrensi sublime Tribunal Cancellarius ascendi, quod pondus honoris Elisabetha meae posuit diadema senectae. Explesset Natura suas & gloria parts Maturus facili decerpor ab arbore fructus. Obijt Ann. Dom. 1587. 29. Elis. aetatis 80. His Motto. Servire Deo sapere. His son and heir Sir Thomas Sadleir knight, lieth interred by him (of whom in another place, for I have already come nearer to these times than I determined) the father of Ralph Sadleir Esquire, that bountiful good Housekeeper now living, Ann. 1630. Near unto the fair builded mansion house of the said Ralph Sadleir some time stood a little religious fabric of Austin Friars, but by whom founded, or how endowed, I do not find. It was a cell to the Priory of Clare in Suffolk, some part of which cell is standing at this day. Sir Will. Coffin knight. Here lieth Sir William Coffin knight, somtym of the privy Chamber to king Henry the eight, and master of the Horse to Queen, high Steward of the liberty and Manor of Stondon. Who died viii of December, M. cccccxxxviii. Io. Iseley and 〈…〉. Here lieth john Iseley somtym Alderman of London. Who died .... M. cccclxxiiii, and john his son, who died the same year. john Curteys. Here lieth john Curteys' Stockfishmonger of London. Who died the the xxiiii of September, M. cccclxv. Philip Asteley & his wi●es. Here lieth Phillep Astley Esquire, who died the xiiii of july, in the year M. cccc .... He had four wives, Lettuce, Margaret, Elisab. and Alice. Digswell. Io. Perient and joan his wife. Hic iacent Iohannes Perient Armiger pro corpore Regis Richardi secundi: et Penerarius eiusdem Regis. Et Armiger Regis Henrici quarti. Et Armiger etiam Regis Henrici quinti; Et Magister Equitum johanne filie Regis Navarr, et Regine Anglie qui obiit ........ et johanna uxor eius, quondam capitalis Domicilla ...... que obijt xxiv Aprilis. Ann. Domini, M ccccxv ...... This Inscription here engraven to the memory of such a remarkable man, being Squire for the Body to three such potent Princes, Ensign or Penon-bearer to one, and Master of the Horse to joan, the second wife of King Henry the fourth, gives me occasion to speak somewhat in particular of these his honours and offices. And first in general of the signification and Etymology of the name of Esquire. Next in degree after knights (saith Camden in his treatise of Degrees of States in England) are Esquires, termed in Latin Armigeri, that is, Costrels, or Bearers of Arms, the same that Scutiferi, that is, Shieldbearers, and Homines ad arma, Men at Arms: the Goths called them Schilpor, all, of carrying the Shield: as in old time among the Romans, such as were named Scularij, who took that name either of the Escutcheons of Arms which they bore as Ensigns of their descent, or because they were Armour-bearers to Princes, or to the better sort of Nobility. Ranulph Earl of Chester, gives Viello Armigero suo tenementum in Bruhello, Cart. Ranul. Com. cestrie. to Viell his Esquire a Tenement in Bruhell. And so Archbishops, Bishops, Barons, knights, & huiusmodi Magnates, Flesa. lib. 1. ca 27. and such sort of Peers of the kingdom had their Esquiers. In times past every knight had two of these waiting upon him: they carried his Morion and Shield; as inseparable companions they stuck close unto him, because of the said knight their Lord, they held certain Lands in Escuage, like as the knight himself of the king by Knight's service. The old Gaulish knights (saith Selden) sat at their round table attended by their Esquires. Tit. of Honor. Par. 2. ca 10. The Germans called an Esquire Schild-knapa, or Shield-knave, or knave, a denotation of no ill quality in those days. For here note by the way, that johannes de Temporibus, john of the Times (so called for the sundry times or ages he lived) was Shield-knave unto the Emperor Charles the Great. Of whom he also was made knight, as Verstegan affirms in his Treatise of Honour and Offices. The Interpreter out of Hotoman, Io. cowel. Dec. l. C. lit. E. saith that these which the French men call Escuiers, we Esquiers, were a military kind of vassal, having ius Scuti, which is as much to say, as that they bore a Shield, and in it the Ensigns of their Family, in token of their gentility or dignity. But these Esquires, Five sorts of Esquires. of whom I have already spoken, be now no more in any request; five distinct sorts are only remaining of these at this day. The principal Esquires are accounted those that are select Esquires for the Prince's body, and such a one was Perient hear interred Inter Armigeros qui f●unt non nascuntur Primarij habentur quatuor illi Armigeri ad corpus Regis: Glossar. lit. ●. Amongst Esquires which are made so by their offices (not so borne) those four Esquires to the king's body are chief and princiall, saith Sir H. Spelman. The next unto them be knights eldest sons: and such an Esquire was the knight's son in Chaucer, who attended his father on pilgrimage to Thomas Beckets' Shrine, as doth appear by their characters in the Prologues to the Canterbury tales. Of which so much as tends to this purpose. A Knight there was, and that a worthy man, That fro the time that he first began To ridden out, he loved chivalry, Troth, honour, freedom, and courtesy. — he was late come fro his voyage, And went for to done his pilgrimage. With him there was his son a young squire, A lover, and a lusty Bachelere: With his locks crull as they were laid in press, Of twenty year of age he was as I guess. courteous he was lowly and servisable, And kerste before his Fader at the table. In a third place are reputed younger sons of the eldest sons of Barons, and of other Nobles in higher estate; and when such heirs males fail, together with them also the title faileth. In a fourth rank are reckoned those, unto whom the King himself, together with a title, giveth Arms, or createth Esquires, by putting about their neck a silver collar of * S S, and (in former times) upon their heels a pair of white spurs silvered: whereupon at this day in the West parts of the kingdom, they be called Whitespurres, for distinction from knights, who are wont to wear gilt spurs: and to the first-begotten sons only of these doth the title belong. In the fifth and last place be those ranged, and taken for Esquires; whosoever have any superior public Office in the common weal, or serve the Prince in any worshipful calling. But this name of Esquire, which in ancient time was a name of charge and office only, crept first among other titles of dignity and worship (so far as I could ever observe, saith Camden) in the reign of Richard the second. In ancient deeds we find little mention made of gentlemen or Esquires, but since the time of Henry the fourth these additions to names have been usually inserted in writings, by reason of the Statute of the first of Henry the fifth, cap. 5. that in all cases wherein Process of Outlary lieth, additions shall be made of the estate, degree, or Mystery of which the parties sued are. This Perient is here styled also Penerarius, Ric. secundi, because (as I conjecture) he had the carriage of the Kings Penon. Which word signifieth a Banner or Ensign carried in war; or a little Streamer worn on the top of a lawnce by a Horseman. A word borrowed from France: for Penon in French signifieth the same thing. cowel. 〈…〉. Master of the Horse (which office this deceased Gentleman enjoyed under the Queen as aforesaid) is he that hath the rule and charge of the Kings or Queen's stable, being an office of high account. Hitching. ●. Polter. Here lieth William Polter Gentylman who died the xx day of May in the fifth year of king Henry the eight. The friary. Here adjoining to the Town was a Priory of white Friars Carmelites, founded by king Edward the second, john Blomvill, Adam Rouse, and john Cobham: and dedicated to the Honour of our alone Saviour, and the blessed Virgin; valued in the King's books upon the surrender thereof (which was upon the ninth of May, Ann. 26. Hen. 8.) but at 4. l. 9 s. 4. d. Kinesburne or Kinesbourgh. Here lieth the carcase of an old Castle interred in her own ruins; which in former times gave entertainment to certain obnoxious persons, which called themselves the king's loyal good Subjects; and the chief preservers of his peace throughout all the adjacent countries: Mss in bib. cou▪ as it is in the golden Register of S. Alban, as followeth. Stephanus Rex ad petitionem Abbatis Roberti, & ob honorem Albani Martyr is permisit dirui castrum de Kynesbury, ubi antiquis temporibus latebant quidam Regales nequam homines Abbathie nimis infesti, & damnosis, dicentes se Regis esse fideles, et custodes pacis patrie, cum potius pacem & patriam perturbarent. King Stephen at the request of Robert Abbot of Saint Alban, and for the honour he bore to the holy Martyr S. Alban, gave commission for the pulling down of the Castle of Kinesbury; wherein in ancient times, certain imperious wicked persons, wondrous much offensive and malicious to the Abbey, took up their privy lodgings; saying that they were the King's faithful servants, and keepers of the peace of the country; when as to the contrary they rather overthrew and disquieted all peaceable government, and the whole country. Here end the Monuments in the County of Hartford. Essex. West Ham. Queen Maud, Foundation of the Abbey of West Ham. Cart. Antiq. Litera ●. wife to king Henry the first, passing over the river of Ley at Ouldford, hardly escaped danger of drowning: after which she gave order that a little beneath, at Stretford, there should be a bridge made over the water; going over which towards West Ham, I saw the remains of a Monastery, pleasantly watered about with several streams, which William Montfichet (a Lord of great name of the Norman race) built, in the year of our Lord, 1140. The revenues of this house were much augmented and confirmed by king Richard the second, in the tenth year of his reign, as by his charter amongst the Records in the Tower appeareth. Dedicated it was to the honour of Christ, and Mary his blessed mother, replenished with black Monks. And valued at the suppression to be worth 573. l. 15. s. 6 d. ob. q. diverse other beside the founder endowed this religious Structure. Some of whose donations I find to be confirmed by the said William Montfichet in this manner. Willelmus de Montefixo omnibus prepositis & ministris & hominibus suis tam Francis quam Anglis Salutem. In bib. Co●t. Sciatis quod ego concedo et confirmo donationem quam fecerunt Ecclesie Sancte Marie de Ham; Matheus Geron, de tota terra sua de Cambridg cum pertinenciis absque omni servicio; & Geraldus de Hamma de uno prato per concessum Martini filia sui, & aliorum siliorum suorum. Donationem etiam quam fecit ergo Capellanus meus ●ecime Dominii mei, etc. Quod si quis hominum meorum Elemosinam de terra facere voluerit, quod de feodo meo sit, non concedo ut alibi det nisi ad Abbatiam meam de Ham. Et insuper si quis hominum meorum quicquam beneficii deinceps eidem Ecclesie facere voluerit in terra, prato vel quacanque re libere donet, hec, omnia que et ego concedo confirmo Abbatic & Monachis de Ham ●●perpetuum. Precor igitur omnes homines meos ut islam meam Elemosinam manuteneant et conservant. Hiis testibus Margareta uxore mea, Richardo de Poylei, Humfrido filio Eustachii Willelmo filio Richardi Willelmo de Byron. The Seal of this deed is in bloody wax. ●amd in Essex. The Barony or habitation of this family de Monte Fixo, or Montfichet, was Stansted in this County, from whom the Town is called Stansted Montfichet to this day. They were reputed men of very great Nobility; until that their ample inheritance was divided among three Sisters. One of which progeny, namely Richard, was in the reigns of king john and Henry the third famous for his high prowess and chivalry: Three the most forcible and valiant knights of England (saith Stow) in those days were Robert Fitz-water, Robert Fitz Roger, and Rich. Montfichet. Io Hammerton Edub his wife, and Rich. his brother. Here lieth john Hammerton Esquur, Sergeant at Arms to king Henry the eight, and of Edith his wife, and Richard Hammerton his brother of the parish of Fedston in the County of York. Which john and Richard fell both sick in an hour and died both in one hour, Ann. Dom. M. ccccc.xii. on whose Sowles jesus have mercy. Amen. H●n. Ketleby. Hic iacet Henricus Ketleby quondam Serviens illustrissimi Principis Henrici filii metuendissimi Regis Hen. septimi qui obiit 8. die Augusti, 1508. Marg. Ketleby. Hic sub pede iacet Margareta quondam uxor johannis Ketleby de Com. Wigorn. Armig. que obiit 10. die junii. .... Io. Eglesfeeld & Edith● his wife. Of your charity prey for the souls of Io. Eglesfeeld, who died 13. of August, 1504 and for the sowl of Edith his wife. Who died 22. of june 1533. Walter Frost, & Anne his wife. Of your cherite prey for the soul of Walter Frost of West Ham, Esquyr, and Sewar to king Harry the eight, and of Anne his wyff, daughter of ..... and widow of Richard Caly Merchant of the Staple of Calis. Which Anne died the xxiii of October 1527. For the word Sewar, saith Minshew, I have heard of an old French book containing the Officers of the king of England's Court, as it was anciently governed, that he whom in Court we now call Sewar, was called Asseour, which cometh from the French Asseoir, to set, settle, or place, wherein his Office in setting down the meat is well expressed. Or Sewar, saith he, is derived perhaps from the French word Esquire, id est, a Squire, because he goeth before the meat as a Squire or Gentleman Vsher. The Fees allowed to this Officer in the reign of Queen Elizabeth (as I have it out of a general collection of all the Offices of England in her days) was thirty and three pounds thirteen shillings four pence. Val. Clark and Elis. his wife. Orate pro anima Valentini Clerke & Elisabethe uxoris eius qui quidem Valentinus obiit 6. die junii 1533. et dicta Elisabetha. .... Waltham Stow. Sir George Monox Lord Ma●or. Here lieth Sir Georg Monox knight, somtym Lord Mayor of London, and Dame Ann his wife, which Sir Georg died ..... 1543. and Dame Ann— 1500. This Lord Mayor, re-edified the decayed Steeple of this Church, and added thereunto the side Isle, with the Chapel wherein he lieth entombed. He founded here a fair Almeshouse in the Churchyard, for an Alms Priest, and thirteen poor Alms people, which he endowed with competent revenues. He also made a causeway of timber for foot Travellers over the marshes, from this Town to Lockbridge. Ilford. Hic iacet Thomas Heron filius & heres johannis Heron militis Thesaurar▪ Camere Domini Regis, Tho. Heron. qui obiit in Alderbroke, 18. Martii 1517. et Ann. Reg. Regis Henrici 8. nono. The valiant Family of the Herons, Camd. in Northumb. or Heiruns, in foregoing ages, were the warlike possessors of very large revenues in the County of Northumberland; parcels of whose Barony, was Chipches Tower, Swinborne and Foard Castles, belonging now to the houses of the Woderingtons, and Cars. Raynam. Hic iacet Richardus Pasmer generosus, Rich. Pasmer. quondam Scriba communis Thesauri, pro Magistro et conventu Rhodi in Prioratu Sancti johannis jerusalem in Anglia, nec non Seneschallus Hospitii Sancti johannis, tempore reverendi Patris fratris Willelmi Tournay Prioris; ac etiam Superuisoris omnium Maneriorum, terrarum et tenementorum infra regnum Anglie, ad Priorem dicti Prioratus pertinentium, tempore presati Prioris, ac tempore reverendorum Patrum fratrum Io. Longstrother, Io. Weston: Io. Kendal .... obiit seven die Octob. Ann. Dom. M. ccccc. Barking. Here lieth Richard Cheyney and joan his wife. Rich▪ Cheney & joan his wife. Which Richard died 1514. on whose. ... john Scot and joan his wife ... Io. Scot and joan his wife. 1519. Under the picture of a Ship sailing in the haven, this Inscription. Desiderata porta. Inveni Portum, Sub pictura Na●is in portu navigan●●s. spes, et fortuna valete; Nil mihi vobiscum, ludite nunc alios. Here are to be seen the ruins of the first Nunnery in England, built in the infancy of the Saxons conversion to Christianity, Io. Ca●graue in vit. Erken. by Erkenwald Bishop of London; which he dedicated to the honour of Christ, and the blessed Virgin Mary his mother, in which he placed black Nuns▪ and made his Sister Ethelburgh the first governess or Abbess over the rest. S. Ethelburgh. Wherein she devoutly spent her days, and died the 5. of the Ides of October, about the year 678. Her next successor was Hildetha, s. Hildetha. who governed her charge with great austerity and strictness of life for many years, till being overladen with decrepit old age, she laid aside the burden of mortality, and entered into the joys of heaven, the Ides of December, about the year 721. Many miracles (saith venerable Bede) were wrought here in this Church (famous for the Sepulture of these and other Saints) at the Shrines of these holy handmaidens of God, Lib. 4 ca● cum su●●● pun●i●us. much confirming the doctrine of those days for which (in that most pregnant and fruitful age of Saints) they were canonised, and their days kept holy. This house was valued at the suppression to be worth 1084. l. 6. s 2. d. ob. q. In nomine Dei nostri et Saluatoris jesu Christi. Ego Erkenwaldus Episcopus Prouincie Est Saxonum seruorum Dei seruus. Dilectissimis in Christo sororibus in Monasterio quod appellatur Berecing habitantibus quod deo auxiliante construxi. Concedo ut tam vos quam posteri vestri in perpetuum ut constructum est ita possideatis. Et ne quis Presul ●uiuslibet sit ordinis, vel qui in meum locum successerit, ullam in eodem Monasterio exerceat potestatem Nec sui iuris ditione, The charter of Erkenwild to the Nuns of Ba●king. Ex lib. Abb▪ de ●arking in bib. Co●s. contra canonum decreta, inquietudines aliquas facere presumat. Ea vero tantum faciat in predicto Monasterio, que ad utilitatem animarum pertinent; ordinationes Sacerdotum vel consecrationes Ancillarum Dei. Ipsa vero sancta congregatio que propter dei amorem ibidem deo laudes exhibet moriente Abbatissa ex seipsa sibi aliam eligat cum dei timore. Omnes terras que michi ex devotionibus Regum sunt concesse, ad nomen eiusdem Monasterij quemadmodum donate sunt ex integro et quieto iure possideant, sicut chartule donationum continent, quas in presenti vobis tradidi. Et ne quis sorte improbus negator huius donationis erumpat, ideo sigillatim has terras in hac chartula enumerandas et nominandas optimum duxi. Quarum prima, etc. Here he reckons up all the Manors, Lordships, and other donations to this his Monastery in particular: concluding thus. Si quis autem Episcoporum cuiuslibet dignitaris fuerit, velsi quis omnium secularium potestatum contra hanc chartulam canonice et regulariter a me constitutam contendere presumpserit, vel aliquid ex inde subtrahere; sit seperatus a consortio Sanctorum in hoc seculo omnium, et in futuro celestis Regni portas clausas contra se undique inveniat a Sancto Petro claviculario celestis Regni a quo michi licentia huius Privilegij data et permissa fuerat, per os beatissimi Agathonis Apostolice sedis Presulis, cum Romam adij ante an. xviii. Ann. ab incarnatione Domini, DC. lxxvij. Chartula autem hec a medictata, confirmata in sua stabilitate nichilominus maneat. ✚ Ego Erkenwaldus Episcopus Donator pro confirmatione subscripsi. ✚ Ego Wilfridus Episcopus consensi et subscripsi. ✚ Ego Hedda Episcopus consensi et subscripsi. ✚ Ego Guda Presbyter et Abbas consentiens subscripsi. ✚ Ego Eghaldus Presbyter et Abbas consentiens subscripsi. ✚ Ego Hagona Presbyter et Abbas consentiens subscripsi. ✚ Ego Hooc Presbyter et Abbas consentiens subscripsi. Sig. ✚ num manus Sebbi Regis Est saxonum. Sig. ✚ num manus Sigihardi Regis. Sig. ✚ num manus Suebred Regis. Ex Registro regio. Dagenham. Hic iacet Richardus Treswel filius johaunis Treswel generosi qui obijt 18 julij 1509. Richard Treswel. Here lieth Anne Barentine, Anne Lady Barentine. wife to Sir William Barentine, who died 27 Decem. 1522. on whose. Here lieth Sir Thomas Urswick Knight ..... Sir Tho. Urswick Knight. Recorder of London, who died ..... By the means of this Recorder Urswick, (whose persuasions were forcible with the Citizens) King Edward the fourth was received into London, Stow. Annal. with general applause, Anno regni sui undecimo; who, entering into the Bishop of London his Palace by a Postern gate, there took King Henry the sixth, and the Archbishop of York, George Nevil, Prisoners, and sent them both to the Tower on Maundy Thursday. Here lieth Elizabeth Fitz-Lewis, Elis. Lady Fitz-Lewis. wife of Sir Richard Fitz-Lewis, daughter of Sir Ralph Sheldon: she died the second of january, M. ccccc.xxii. upon whose sowl. Thorndon, not far off, where now the Lord Petre hath a goodly fair house, Camd. in Essex. was in times past, (saith Camden) the dwelling place of this worshipful Family of Fitz-Lewis; the last of which name (if we may believe the common report,) by occasion that the house happened to be set on fire in the time of his wedding feast, was piteously himself therein burnt to death. Wennington. In the Church of this little Parish which (as I am told) contains but twelve Mansion houses, are three ancient monuments, shamefully defaced, howsoever some fragments of their inscriptions remaining. ...... Gilderburgh .... l' an de grace ... Mil. ccc.lxxxix. .....: joanna & joanna Enfants Iohan et Mariore de Gildesburgh gisent icy. Gilders●urgh. Dieu de lour alms eit Mercy. Amen. ..... Mariori qe fust la seem johan de Gildesburgh gist icy, Dieu des'alme eit mercy. Amen. Aueloy. Hic iacet Radulphus de Knevynton, Ralph Kn●uinton. obitus eius die jovis ante sestum sancti Nicholai Anno Dom. M.ccc.lxxiii. Reg. Regis Ed. tertij xlvii. litera Dominicalis F. Hic iacet Editha Pert, uxor Willelmi Pert, que in vita sua prudens fuit et fidelis ob. xxviii. Septemb. M. cccc.l.vii. cuius anime. South Okenden. 〈…〉 Knight. Hic iacet Ingstramus Bruin miles quondam Dominus istius Ville et huius Ecclesie Patronus, qui obijt 12. Aug. 1400. One of the Ancestors of this Bruin, (as I have it out of a book of the visitation of Essex in the Herald's office) was Chamberlain to King Edward the first, who gave him the Manor of Bekingham in Kent, who married ●sold, the sole heir of this Manor of south Okenden, who served Q. Elinor, wife to the said King Edward, which gave to them diverse Lordships in Hampshire. 〈◊〉 essex. This Family of Bruin, saith Camden, was in former ages, as famous as any one in this tract. Out of the two heirs female whereof, being many times married to sundry husbands, Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk, the Tirels, berner's, Harlestons', Heveninghams', are descended, and of that house there be males yet remaining in Southamptonshire. Coringham. In bib. Co●. The Monuments in this Church, (which have been many) are quite defaced. I read in an old Manuscript, thus much of the Bawds there buried, and in other places sometimes Lords of the Town, and Patrons of the Church. Anno Domini 1174. Sir Simon de Bawd or Bald, Knight, died in the holy land. The worthy 〈…〉 he 〈◊〉. Anno 1189. Nich. Bald Knight died in Gallicia in Spain. Anno 1216. Sir Walter Bauld died at Coringham. Anno 1270. Sir William Bauld died at Coringham. Anno 1310. Sir Walter Bauld died at Coringham. Anno 1343. Sir William Bauld died at Coringham. Anno 1346. Sir john le Bauld died in Gascoigne. Anno 1375. Sir William Bauld died at Hadham Parua. Anno 1420. on the feast of Saint Bartholomew, died Thomas Bald, or Bawd, the first Esquire at little Hadham. Anno 1449. Tho. Bawd the second Esquire, died at little Hadham. Anno 1500. Mens. junij obijt Dominus Thomas Bawd miles, obijt apud London, cuius anime propitietur deus. Anno 1550. obijt johannes Bawd Ar. apud Coringham. This ancient family of the Bawds, Stow saith, as he had read out of an ancient deed, gave unto the Dean and Chapter of Paul's, upon the day of the conversion of Saint Paul, a good do; and upon the feast of the commemoration of Saint Paul, a fat Buck; in consideration of twenty two Acres of land, by them granted, within their Manor of Westley in Essex, to be enclosed into their Park of Coringham. Sir William Bawd about the third of Edward the first, was the first that granted this deed, which was confirmed by his son Walter, and others of his line. This Buck and do were brought upon the said festival days, at the hours of Procession, S●ru●y in Far●●g ward 〈◊〉. and thorough the Procession to the high Altar; the manner of it is reported by Stow, who partly (as he saith) saw it, thus. On the feast day of the commemoration of Saint Paul, the Buck being brought up to the steps of the high Altar in Paul's Church, at the hour of Procession, the Dean and Chapter being apparelled in Copes and Vestments, with Garlands of Roses on their heads, A Bucks head borne before the Procession at Paul's. they sent the body of the Buck to baking, and had the head fixed on a Pole, borne before the Cross in their Procession, until they issued out of the West door; where the Keeper that brought it, blowed the death of the Buck, and then the Horners that were about the City, presently answered him in like manner. For the which pains, they had each man of the Dean and Chapter, four pence in money, and their dinner, and the Keeper that brought it, was allowed, during his abode there for that service, meat, drink and lodging, at the Dean and Chapters charges, and five shillings in money, at his going away, together with a loaf of bread, having the picture of Saint Paul upon it, etc. There was belonging to the Church of Saint Paul, for both the days, two special Suits of Vestments, the one embroidered with Bucks, the other with Does, both given by the said Bawds. Bawd is the surname (saith Verstegan) of a worshipful family in England, In our name● of contempt. and of a marquis in Germany, anciently written Bade, and the letter D used of our Ancestors in composition, as th': so the right name is Bathe, and so this family (might be) took the name of some office belonging to the Bathe, at the time of the Coronation of some King, when as the Knights of the Bathe are wont to be made. Ralegh. Here is a monument in this Church which makes a show of great antiquity, but who should be therein entombed, I could not certainly learn; some of the Inhabitants say, that one of the ancient house of the Alens, other say, that it was made for one of the family of the Essexes', who were Lords of this town, and noble Barons of England, both before and since the Conquest: Swein de Essex, the son of Robert, who was the son of Winmarke, Baron of Ralegh, built the ruined Castle in this town, in the reign of Edward the Confessor, whom the King calleth Brother, in this his Charter to Ranulph Peperking. Iche Edward Koning Have given of my Forest the keeping: The form of an old deed of Gift. Of the hundred of Chelmer and Dancing, Camd. in Essex out of the Treasury of the Exchequer To Randolph Peperking and to his kindling. With Heorte and Hind, Do and Bocke, Hare and Fox, Catt and Brock, Wild fowel with his flock, Partridge, Fesant hen, and Fesant cock, With green and wild stob and stock: To keep and to yeomen by all her might, Both by day and eke by night. And hounds for to hold, Good, and swift, and bold. Four Greyhounds, and six Racches, For Hare, and Fox, and wild Cats. And therefore iche made him my book. Witness the Bishop Wolston, And book ylered many on. And Swein of Essex our brother, And teken him many other. And our steward Howelin, That by sought me for him. This form of Grants was used both before and after this King's time, for example. I King A●helstane, gives to Paullane, Hollins. in the History of Scotland, pag. 248. Odhiam and Rodhiam, Als guide and als fair, Als evyr yay mine waire, And yarto witness Maud my wyff. And William the Conqueror gave certain lands by the like deed, to one Pauline Roydon, the copy whereof was found in the Registers Office at Gloucester, (which I had from my dear deceased friend, Aug. Vincent,) which is almost all one with that, to the Norman Hunter, collected by john Stow out of an old Chronicle in the Library at Richmond. I William, King, the thurd year of my reign, give to the Paulyn Roydon, Hope and Hopetowne, With all the bounds both up and down. From heaven to earth, from earth to hell, For the and thine there to dwell. As truly as this King right is mine; For a crossbow and an arrow, When I shall come to hunt on Yarrow. And in teken that this thing is sooth, I bit the whit wax with my tooth. Before Megg, Maud, and Margery, And my thurd Son Herry. Such was the good meaning of great men in those days, that a few words did make a firm bargain: but to return from whence I have digressed. Will. Ta●burgh. Orate pro anima Wilielmi Talburgh quondam Rectoris istius Ecclesie, qui obijt apud London in Parochia Sancti Petri apud Cornhill. 5. Decemb. 1420. Es testis Christ, quod non iacet hic lapis iste, Corpus ut ornetur, sed spiritus ut memoretur. Hinc tu qui transis, magnus, medius, puer an sis, Pro me sunde preces, quia sic mihi fit veny spes. Orate pro anima venerabilis viri Richardi Lincoln, Rich. Lincoln●. Theologie professor is, & buius Ecclesie Rectoris qui obiit 29. julii 1492. Talis eris qui calce teris mea busta pedestris Qualis ego iaceo vermiculosus homo. Orate pro anima Willelmi Sutton nuper Valecti corone, Will. Sutton & joan his wife. domini Regis & johanne uxoris eius, qui ob... 1428. Valetti (saith learned Selden) was used for young heirs, Titles of Honour. ●. p. ●●. ca 9 or young gentlemen, or attendants. And Valectus, or Valettus, to tell you once for all (saith Camden) was in those days, viz. tempore Ed. 3. an honourable title as well in France, Camden in Yorkshire. as in England, but afterward, applied unto Servants and Grooms: whereupon when the Gentry rejected it, by changing the name, they began to be called Gentlemen of the Bedchamber. Orate pro animabus johannis Barrington, joh. and Tho. 〈…〉. et l homasine uxoris eius, qui quidem Iohannes obiit 8. die mens. novemb. 1416. et Thomasina obiit 15. Septemb. 1420. Quorum animabus. Riding from Ralegh towards Rochfort, I happened to have the good company of a gentleman of this country, 〈◊〉 Court. who, by the way, showed me a little hill, which he called the King's Hill; and told me of a strange customary Court, & of long continuance, there yearly kept, the next Wednesday after Michaelmas day, in the night, upon the first cockcrowing without any kind of light, save such as the heavens will afford: The Steward of the Court writes only with coals, and calleth all such as are bound to appear, with as low a voice as possibly he may; giving no notice when he goeth to execute his office. Howsoever he that gives not an answer is deeply amerced; which servile attendance (said he) was imposed at the first, upon certain Tenants of diverse Manors hereabouts, for conspiring in this place, at such an unseasonable time, to raise a commotion. The title of the Entry of the Court, he had in memory, and writ it down for me when we came to Rochfort. Thus it runs in obscure barbarous rhymes. Curia de Domino Rege dicta sine Lege, Tenta est ibidem per eiusdem cons●etudinem. Anteortum solis luceat nisi polus: Seneschallus solus scribit nisi colis. Clamat clam pro Rege; in Curia sine lege. Et qui non cito venerit citius penitebit. Si venerit cum lumine, errat in regimine, Et dum sunt sine lumine capti sunt in crimine. Curia sine cura iurata de iniuria Tenta die Mercurij prox. post festum Sancti Michaelis. Thus much have I spoken of a Lawless Court, for which I have neither law nor reason. For I am sure that this discourse is impertinent, and quite from the subject to which I have tied myself to treat of. Yet I hope these lines will not seem much unpleasing for my Reader to peruse, when his mind is overcharged with dull, heavy, and uncomfortable Epitaphs. Rochfort. I am looking for some Monument or other in this Church, to the memory of some one of the Lords of ancient Nobility, to which this Town gave the Surname of Rochfort (as now it gives the title of Viscount Rochfort to that truly honourable and right worthy gentleman Henry Cary, Lord Hunsden, and Earl of Dover. Anne Snokeshall Pris pur Anne Snokeshall fille Iohn filol de Landmare, qe gist ici: Dieu de salme eit pite et mercy, qe ob iour de saint Valentin ●an I●su christ, M. ccc.lxxxxvi. Rose Crymvill. Of your cherite prey for the sowl of Rose Crymvill, wife of Richard Crymvill. Which Rose desesyd viii. April, M. cccccxxiiii. on her sowl jesus have mercy. Hic iacet Maria Dilcock, que obiit xiiii die Decembris, Ann. Dom. M. Vc. Cuius anime. .... The Tower and the Steeple of this Church was built from the ground, as the inhabitants by tradition affirm, by Richard, Lord Rich, Baron of Leez, and Chancellor of England. A most prudent and judicious Statesman, a singular treasure and supporter of the kingdom: who for his great good deserts received the office of Chancellor of England at the hands of King Edward the sixth. Camden. Howsoever the Arms of the Butlers, Earls of Ormond (whose inheritance this Town was in times past) are cut in some places on the stone. Hospital at Rochfort. Robert Lord Rich, and Earl of Warwick, lately deceased, founded here six Alms houses, for five poor impotent men, and an aged woman. But here let me conclude what I have spoken of this town, with the words of Camden. More inward (saith he) is Rochfort placed, that hath given name to this Hundred; Camd. in Essex. now it belongeth to the (now Earls of Warwick) Barons Rich, and in old time it had Lords of great nobility, surnamed thereof; whose inheritance came at length to Butler, Earl of Ormond and Wiltshire, and from them to Sir Thomas Bullen, whom King Henry the eight created Viscount Rochfort, and afterward Earl of Wiltshire; out of whose progeny sprung that most gracious Queen Elizabeth, and the Barons of Hunsdon. Pritlewell. Foundation of the Priory. Swein de Essex (before remembered) built here a Priory for black Monks, which he dedicated to the blessed Virgin Mary. Which was much augmented by others, and holden to be a cell to the Priory of jews: until the year 1518. when as a great contention arose between the two Houses: insomuch that john Prior de Pritlewel noluit soluere unam Marcam Priori de Lewes nomine subiectionis. Lib. Mon. de jews. This house was valued at the suppression to be worth 194 l. 14. s. 3. d. ob. yearly. Io. Lucas. Hic iacet Magister johannes Lucas, Theologie Bacchalaureus, quondam vicarius istius Ecclesie Parochialis, qui ob. 16. jan. 1477. Cuius anime. Prey for the sowl of john Cock the younger, Io. Cock and Margaret his wife. and Margaret his wyff. Which Io. died ...... 1522. Her undyr this Grauston lieth buried Richard Bowrd. Rich. Bowrd. ... Merchant of Callys .... died ... 1432. Under this inscription these words are engraven in a true Love's knot. Quod servavi perdidi; quod expendi habui; Quod donavi habui, quod negavi perdidi. Stangate. Here sometime stood a small Priory built by the Predecessors of the Prior of jews, Foundation of the Priory of Stansgate. about what time I cannot learn; valued to be yearly worth 43. l. 8. s. 6. d. Saint Osithes. Whose ancient name was Chich, Foundation of Saint o●●●bes. now grown out of use by reason of Osith the virgin of royal parentage; who being wholly devoted to the service of God, was here stabbed to death by the Danish pirates, in the year 653 in the month of October. Io. Cap●raue. And being by our Ancestors honoured for a Saint, Richard de Beaveyes Bishop of London, in her memorial, built here a religious house, of Regular Canons, about the year 1120. in the reign of King Henry the first. His grant I have read in the Records of the Tower, Cart. Antiq, lit. beginning thus. Richardus Dei gratia London Episcopus, etc. Salutem. Sciatis quod ego dedi Ecclesie Sancte Osithe virgins de Ciz. ecclesias de Sudemenestra et de Clachentona cum omnibus que ad illas pertinent, etc. King Henry confirms and augments this donation by his Charter dated at Rouen in the nineteenth year of his reign. And many others so added to the revenues of this Monastery, that at the time of the suppression, it was valued at 758. pound, five shillings eight pence. This Bishop, the founder, was diverse times about to resign his Bishopric, that he might become a regular Canon in this his own new built Monastery; and that the rather, because being taken with an irrecoverable Palsy, Godwin. de Prefisl. Angl. he well knew his time to be short. But he so long deferred the execution of this intent, that he was surprised by death before he could perform it, the sixteenth day of januarie, 1127. He was Warden of the marches of Wales, and governor of the County of Salop, he sat Bishop twenty years, in which time (beside the building of this Monastery) he purchased diverse whole streets, and much housing near to his Cathedral Church of Saint Paul's. All which he pulled down, and leaving the ground unbuilt for a Cemitery or Churchyard, enclosed the same with a wall, which for the most part remaineth; but at this day so covered with houses, as it can hardly be seen. The Canons of this house desired his body to be here buried: which they entombed under a marble Monument with this inscription. Hic iacet Richardus Beaweis, Rich. Beaweis Bishop of London. Mss. in bib. Cott. cognomine Rufus, London Episcopus, vir probus et grandews, per totam vitam laboriosus, Fundator noster religiosus, et qui multa bona nobis et Ministris Ecclesie sue sancti pauli contulit, obijt xuj. jaenuarij M. c.xx.vii. cuius anime propitietur altissimus. Woodham waters. In this Church I find no monument of any great antiquity, howsoever here was the ancient seat of the Lords Fitzwater, who being nobly descended (saith Camden) were of a most ancient race, Camd in Essex derived from Robert, the younger son of Richard, son to Gislebert of Clare, accounted Earl of Hertford; but in the age lately foregoing, translated by a daughter into the stock of the Radcliffes, the predecessors of the Earls of Sussex. Woodham Mortimer. I●●n Cokar and C●●istian his 〈◊〉. Prey for the souls of Iron Cokar and Christian his wife, which jon died the viii. of Octobre, on thousand fowr hundred seventy and eight: and the said jon for the health of his sowl, gave by his Testament, and last Will to God and to his Church, a yearly rent of xx. pens, and three schillyng iiii. pens, for keeping his obit in this Chirch, to be take out of his croft called Windets yearly for ever. Maldon. Kimbaline, King of Britain. In this town stood the palace royal of Cunobeline or Kimbaline, King of great Britain, a Prince that spent his younger years in the wars, under Augustus Caesar, of whom he received the order of Knighthood, by whom he was so favoured, Camd. in Essex. that by his alone request, the peace of this kingdom was continued, Speed Hist. without the payment of Roman Tribute, who having for a long time enjoyed peace, in the universal peace of the world, (for in the xiii. year of his reign, Fl●●es Histor. the God of peace our Lord and Saviour jesus Christ, was borne of the blessed Virgin.) He trained up his people in a more civil and peaceable kind of government, then that to which they had been formerly accustomed, Stow Annal and departed this world in peace, within this his City of Maldon, than the chamber of his kingdom; in the one and twentieth year of our redemption, when he had reigned thirty and five years, of whom thus writeth my Author Io Harding, ca xlv. Kimb. the son of T●●oman●ius 〈◊〉 Britain. Kymbaline, so was his son and heir, nourished at Rome, instruct with Chevalre, That knight was made with honour great and ●ayer By Octavian, reigning then enterly, Emperor then of Rome's great Monarchy, In whose time was both peace and all concord Through all the world, and borne was Christ our Lord. He was buried in this his chief city, some say at London. Hic iacet Henricus Coggeshale filius et heres Thome Coggeshale filij Thome Coggeshale Armigeri, Richard Coggeshal●. qui obijt 9 jan. 1427. cuius. Quisquis eris quitransieris sta, perlege plora Sum quod eris, fueramque quod es, pro me precor ora. Orate pro anima Thome Darcy Ar. corporis Regum Edwardi quarti et Henrici sexti, Tho. Darcy and Margaret his wife. et nuper unius justiciar. ad pacem in come. Essex, ac filij et heredis Roberti Darcy militis, nec non pro anima Margarete consortis sue unius filiarum et heredis johannis Harleton in come. Suffolk Ar. qui quidem Tho. obijt 25. Mens. Septemb. 1485. Hic iacet Rogerus Darcy Ar. filius et heres Tho. Darcy Ar. pro corpore illustrissimi Principis Henrici septimi Regis Anglie, Ro Darcy and Elizabeth his wife. et Elizabetha uxor eius filia Henrici Wentworth militis qui obijt ultimo die Septemb. 1508. diverse other fair monuments (but shamefully defaced) are here erected to the memory of the Darcies, a numerous family, and for antiquity and nobleness of birth, of great respect in many places of this kingdom. Sir Robert Darcy Knight, remembered in the former inscription, by his last will and testament, bequeathed his body to be buried in this Church; the substance whereof I have read in an old Manuscript, In bib. Cot. as followeth. Robert Darcy Knight, made his Testament, the 5 of October, Anno Domini, Sir Robert Darcies Wil● Ex Regist Episcopi Lon●●. Tho. Kem●. 1469. his body he willed to be buried in all Hallowes Church of Maldon, before the Altar, in the Isle, where his father lieth in a Tomb of marble. Also he willed l▪ marks to be disposed for two thousand masses for him to be said, within six week's next after his deceyse, iiii. d. for every mass; and that they be charged for to prey for his soul, his wifs soul, his fathers and his mothers, and for all his sister's souls; and for all their husband's souls, and for all the souls that he is bound to prey for. Of which said l. marks, he willed to have somewhat every Priest that dwelled in Penbroke hall in Cambridge. Also he willed that every Friar that was a Priest in Colchester, have xx. d. and every little Friar vi. d. to say three dirgees, considering that he was a brother of that Order. And the house of Chennesford xl. s. the house of Clare xx. s. and each young Friar vi. d. considering that he was a brother of their Order. And he made his Executors, Elizabeth his wife, Io. Clopton Esquire, Nicolas Saxton, and Richard Astley, Clerks. And the supervisors of this his Testament, my Lord of Essex, my Lord Dinham, Thomas Mountgomery, and Thomas Tirrill Knights; lowly beseeching the said Lord of Essex, the Lord Dinham, Sir Thomas Mountgomery, and Sir Thomas Tirrill, to help his son Thomas and all his children. Also he willed that my Lord of Essex, and the Lord Dinham, should each of them have a But of Malmsey, and that Sir Thomas Mountgomery, and Sir Thomas Tirrill should each of them have a pipe of red wine. Also he willed that his brother john Clopton, one of his Executors, should have for his labour xx.l. Also he willed mistress Anne Darcy his brother's wife, to have xx. marks. given at Danbury the day and year above said. This his will was proved, quarto di● mensis Maij, coram reverendo in Christo Patre Domino Thoma Episcopo London; infra manerium suum de Wekeham, Anno Domini 1470. 〈◊〉 King a Butcher. One King a Butcher, with his two wives, Alice and Anne, lie here interred under a goodly marble, richly inlaid with brass, his Axe for his Arms, with this Epitaph, who died 1415▪ Subiacet hic pictus, diues, durus, niece victus, Nomine Rex dictus, non re, sed homo modo fictus. De Maldon Carnifex, at Rex vir vocitatus, Nostre fraternitatis pater et peramatus. Mundi mense pleno Ianuarii die noveno C. quater, mille, ter et v. tunc Rex ruit ille. Sponse que fantur Alys, Ann secum tumulantur Quibus solamen precor precamur & Amen. Rich. Wood and joan his wife. Augusti undena sumpta bis in hac requievit Petra Richardus Wood coninge cumque johanna. Quorum sunt nati quinque, nate quoque seen, jesu cunctorum miserator sis precor horum. Farewell you world, I taken leave for ever I am cityd to appear I not where Then all yiss world yis tim had I lever, A litl spase to make a sith for fere Of my trespass, broken is for sorrow Mine hart, now be that sal not be to morrow. Farewell friends, ye tide bidyth no man; I am taken fro hens, and so salye: But to what passage tell you I ne can, Ye yat be living may pray well ye be, naked I go, nakyd hider we came Prey ye for me, Requiem eternam. Orate pro animabus Tho. Drakes et Elisabethe uxoris eius quondam filia johannis Heydon Ar. et Alicie uxoris eius filie et unius heredum Roberti Swynborne militis qui .... ob. Tho. ●rakes and ●lis. his wife. 26. junii 1464. Ri●. Lion and Katherine his wife. Orate pro animabus Richardi Lion Shereman Fundatoris huius capelle et Katherine uxoris eius ...... Quisquis ades, qui morte cades, sta, respice, plora, Sum quod eris, modicum cineris, prome precor ora. Foundation of the white ●●iers. Here in this town sometime stood a religious house of Carmelites or white Friars, founded by Richard de Gravesend, Bishop of London, and one Richard Iselham a Priest, about the year 1292. valued at the suppression at twenty six pounds, eight shillings: a poor Foundation for so great a Prelate, having the assistance and charitable contribution of another Priest. Th● Maldon. This little covent was honoured with diverse great scholars, which I find to have been therein buried: and first Thomas Maldon, so called of this town, the place of his birth, brought up of a boy in this house of the Carmelites; from whence he went to Cambridge, when he attained to ripeness of years, where he profited exceedingly in all kinds of learning; in so much that he was chosen to be the chief master or professor of Divinity in that University; he was, saith Pits, de illustribus Anglie scriptoribus, from whom Bale doth not much dissent, subtilis disputator, elegans concionator, in omni concertatione scholastica promptus et expeditus, in dubiis explicandis clarus et dilucidus, in decernendis et diffiniendis rebus arduis constans et solidus. He was called from Cambridge to take upon him the government of this Priory; in which office he ended his days, in the year 1404. and was interred in the Church of his Covent; upon whose Tomb this Epitaph was engraven, as I have it in a Manuscript. Carmeli Thomas decus hic iacet Ordinis almus Bale de Carme mel●t● 〈◊〉. Presul, cui virtus tot bona iuncta dedit, Ingenium, Formam, mores, linguamque disertam, Post mortem et vitam: que manet usque piis, Obiit Anno Domini M. cccciiii. Robert of Colchester a Carme and a good scholar, Robert Colchester. was likewise here interred, with this Epitaph or inscription upon his grave-stone. Orate pro anima Roberti de Colchester Fratris de monte Carmeli literatissimi, piissimique, ac quondam prioris huius Cenobii, Qui obiit in vigiliis S. Agathe virgins, Anno Domini M. cccc.lxv. An Epitaph to the memory of friar William Horkisle here inhumed. Carmelita pius iacet hic pro parte Wilhelmus, william Horkesley. Pars erat ad superos Horkisle postea tutus. obiit Anno Dom. 1473. Hic iacet Magister Frater Richardus Acton sacre pagine professor, Richard Acton huinsque conventus carmelitarum pervigilac versutus quondam Gubernator. Qui ex hac luce migravit Anno Dom. M. cccc.xlvi. cuius anime propitietur altissimus. Here sometime likewise one Friar Tho. Hatfield was remembered with this Epitaph. Tho. Hatfield. In campo mortis Frater celeb●rrimus Hatfelde Conditur, eximium continet urna virum. Dogmate precipuus, nullique secundus amore, Claruit ingenio, moribus, ore, stilo. The Monument of another, nameless, Carmelite was thus inscribed. Miseri beatus portus hic est corporis, Qui sim viator, queris: ipse nescio. Qui sis futurus, tu tamen per me scies. Ego tuque puluis, umbra et vmbre somnium. Veni, abij: sic vos venistis, abihitis omnes. Colchester. Hen. Bedford and Alice his wife. Here lieth Henry Bedford and Alis his wife. Which Alis died the 10. of August, 1592. they had xi sons and 6 daughters. Geo. Willoughby and Anastacia his wife Here lieth Georg Willoughby, and Anastacia his wife, which Georg died 28 of May 1533. Rob. Rockwood. Here lieth Robart Rockwood, and Agnes his wife, which Robart died ...... 1497. Within this City and the suburbs are contained ten Parish Churches; in all which I could collect no more Inscriptions of any antiquity, save these in Saint Gyles Church. But howsoever her Churches at this day be no ways beautified with the ancient funeral Trophies of any illustrious personages; yet her inhabitants may brag of the burial of Coill, that brave British Prince, who built this their Town of Colchester, about one hundred twenty and four years after the birth of our Saviour Christ. Wherein his son Lucius, Helena, and Constantine, the first Christian King, Empress, and Emperor in the world, were borne: which made Necham (saith Speed) for Constantine to sing as he did. Speed in Essex. From Colchester there rose a Star, The Rays whereof gave glorious light Throughout the world, in climates far; Great Constantine Rome's Emperor bright. This Coilus was brought up even from his youth in Rome, and therefore favouring the Romans, paid them his tribute. He reigned fifty five years saith Stow. Harding saith but eleven. In whose commendations will it please you hear himself speak. 〈◊〉 Annal. Coell ruled the Realm in Law and peaceful well That for his wit and vertuosite Able he was as Chronycles could feel, To have ruled all the Emperalyte For right wesnesse, manhood, and morality, A daughter had he, and none other heir, Elyne that height, far passing good and fair. Buried at Care colune he was his own city Greatly commended, well famed, and laudifee, Both on this side and beyond the See Eleven year regnyd in great dignity. Another of him (more ancient) thus. Rob. Glocest. Coel was a noble man, and much power had an hand Earl he was of Colchestre, here in his land, And aftur his name Colchestre is cluped as iche understand. Our Lord amongst othur things him send a fair sonde, That he got a fair daughter at Colchestre in this land saint Helyne was cluped he is, the holy croys he fond Constance for her heritage this maid to wyve nom And nam with hur all this land, and the kingdom And let him crouny to king, that goodde knight was and fyn And on hur begat one Sun, men cluped Constantyn▪ Without the walls of this Town, The foundation of S. john's. stood a large and stately Monastery, which Eudo Sewar to king Henry the firs●, founded and consecrated to the honour of Christ and Saint john Baptist, wherein he placed black Monks. The Ancestors of the right honourable Sir Edward Sackvile, knight of the Bath, and Earl of Dorset, were great benefactors, or rather cofounders of this religious structure. For in the book of the Abbey of Colchester I have read, In Lib. Colt. jordan and Robert Sackvile. that jordanus de Saukevil miles et Baro de Bergholt Saukevil, filius & heres Roberti Saukevil, superstes tempore Stephani Regis, & Henrici secundi confirmavit Ecclesie Sancti johannis de Colecestria in perpetuam Eleemosinam, manerium de Wicham (or Witham) quod pater s●us Robertus eidem Ecclesie donaverat. The foresaid Eudo founded likewise in this Town an Hospital for people infected with the contagious disease of Leprosy, Foundation of the Hospital for Lep●●s. which he dedicated to Saint Mary Magdalen. Here was another religious house wherein were placed brethren of the holy Cross, Foundation of the Friary of the holy Cross but by whom founded I cannot find. Valued at the suppression to 7. l. 7.5.8 d. per annum. Robert Lord Fitzwater in the year 1309. Foundation of the Minories. founded here an Abbey for Friar's Minors, into whose order and House he entered himself in the year 1325. and then and there took upon him the habit of a religious Votary, wherein he spent the rest of his days, In bib. Cott. Ann. M.ccc.ix. (saith the book of Dunmow) Robertus filius Walteri custos de Essex fundamentum posuit Ecclesie Fratrum Minorum de Colcestria. And in the Catalogue of such Emperors, Kings, Princes, and other potent personages, which from the beginning have entered into this religious order. This Robert is reckoned for one. These are the words. Frater Dominus Robertus Fitzwater Baro fundator Conventus Colcestrie intravit ibidem ordinem. Mss. in bib. Cot●. Ann. Domini Milesimo tricentesimo vicesimo quinto. This house was valued at the suppression at 113. l. 12. s 8. d. of yearly revenues. Earls Colne. So called of the Sepulture of the Earls of Oxford, Camd. in Oxford. which derive their descent (saith Camden) from the Earls of Guines in France, and have the surname of Vere from Vere a Town in Zealand. In this parish Church are two Monuments of this family of the Veres, the one lieth cross-legged, with a Saracens head upon his tomb, which Saracen (say the Inhabitants) this Earl slew in the holy Land. The other of them with his wife, lieth entombed; at her feet is the Talbot, at his feet the Boar: they are both shamefully defaced. They were removed out of the Priory near adjoining at the suppression, as I was told. This Priory was first founded by Aubrey de Vere soon after the Conquest, The foundation of Colne Priory. which he dedicated to the honour of God and Saint Andrew; and placed therein black Monks, translated from Abingdon, to which Abbey he made this Priory to be subject upon this occasion, In Rib. Cott. as I have it out of the book of Abingdon. Godfrey de Vere the son and heir of the foresaid Aubrey by Beatrice his wife, dying in his father's life time, was buried in the Monastery of Abingdon, to which he had been a benefactor, whereupon, saith the Story, Aubrey his father and Beatrice his mother were determined to choose Abingdon for their burial place, in respect of the tender affection they bore to their child. But their Lands lying here in Essex far off, they procured a Grant from King Henry the first to build a religious House at Colne in Essex, for their soul's health, their Sons, and others, as also for their Sepultures; et hanc domum Sancto Andr●e Apostolo dedicatam, subiectam et coher●ntem Ecclesie Abingdonen si faciebant. Not long after the finishing of this work, and a little before his death, Aubrey the Founder took upon him the habit of Religion in this his own house, wherein he died, and was here buried by a younger son of his, named William, in whose remembrance this Epitaph was engraven upon their Monument. Cedunt a vita votis animisque cupita, Aubrey de Vere and William his son. Barbarus, et Scita, Gentilis, et lsraelita: Has pariter metas habet omnis sexus et et aes, En puer, en senior, Pater alter, filius alter, Legem, fortunam, terram venere sub unam Non iuvenie ●ote quas epotavit Athene Non v●tulo vote vires velopes valuere. Sed valuere fides, et predia quae memoramus. Vt valeant, valeant per secula cuncta precamus. M●●. in bib. Co●▪ For the said Aubrey de Vere and Beatrice his wife, I found this Inscription to be engraven upon their Monument, in the book of Colne Priory. Here lieth Aulbery de Veer, the first Earl of Guisnes, the son of Alphonsus de Veer, the which Aulbery was the fownder of this place, and Bettrys his wife sister of king William the Conqueror. This Priory was valued at the fatal overthrow of such like buildings to be yearly worth 175. l. 14. s. 8▪ d ob. The house is standing at this day, converted into a private dwelling place, as also the old Chapel to it, wherein are diverse Monuments, under which lie buried many of this thrice honourable Family of the Veres, but they are all gone to decay, and their Inscriptions by time and stealth quite taken away. Upon one Tomb of Alabaster which is thought to be the ancientest, is the portraiture of a man lying in his armour, crosslegged, but what was carved at his feet cannot be discerned. Upon another, is one lying armed wtih the blue Boar under his head, which was also crosslegged, as I was informed; but now is nothing remaining from the middle downward. A third of wood armed crosslegged, on his Target the Arms of the house of Oxford; and there lieth by him a woman made of wood, which is thought to have been his Lady, and Countess. Here are two more likewise in wood armed, and crosslegged, the one hath an Hound or Talbot under his feet: the cote Armour of the other is quite broken away with his Target. Here is one in Alabaster not crosslegged, the Garter about one of his legs; what is under his feet cannot be discerned. A woman portrayed in Alabaster with a Falcon under her feet, and a little Monument of Alabaster, upon which is the image of one in a Gown, with a purse hanging at his girdle: he is in length about four foot. But I will show the Reader the names of such Earls and others of this house which by supposition and certainty are said to have been here interred; which may give some light to the further knowledge of these, in this manner entombed. Aubrey de Vere the son of Aubrey, Aubrey de Vere the first Earl of Oxford, surnamed the grim. Chamberlain under King Henry the first, or Camerarius Anglie, as I find it in old Cartularies, having lost this his Office of great Chamberlain, and other dignities, in the turmoils between King Stephen and Maude the Empress, was by the said Empress and Henry the second (as you may have it more fully in Vincents' discovery of errors) restored to all his former honours, and withal created Earl of Oxford. He died in the year 1194. the sixth of king Richard the first, and was here buried by his father. Lib. Alb. de Colne. His wife Agnes or Adeliza lieth buried by him, who was the daughter of Henry of Essex, Baron of Ralegh, the King's Constable. Such was the Epitaph or inscription upon his Tomb, as it is in the book of Colne Priory. Aubrey de Vere the second Earl of Oxford. Hic iacet Albericus de Vere, silius Alberici de Veer, Comes de Guisney & primus Comes Oxonie magnus Camerarius Anglie qui propter summam audatiam, & effrenatam pravitatem Grymme Aubrey vocabatur, obiit 26. die Decembris, anno Christi, 1194. Richardi ●. sexto. Aubrey de Vere, the son of the foresaid Aubrey, succeeded his father in all his dignities; I find little written of him in our Histories, save that out of his Christian piety he did confirm the gift of septem librat. terre which Aubrey his father gave to the Canons of Saint O sith here in Essex, adding thereto something of his own. He died in the year of our Lord, 1214. and sleepeth now in the same Bed, with three other Aubreyes his Ancestors. To whom this Epitaph upon Conrade the Emperor at Spires in Germany may be fitly applied. Filius hic, Pater hic, Auus hic, Proaws iacet istie. The great Belsire, the Grandsire, Sire, and Son Lie here interred under this Gravestone. Hugh de Vere the son of Robert the first of that Christian name, Hugh de Vere Earl of Oxford. Earl of Oxford, and Lord great Chamberlain of England, was here entombed with his Ancestors, who died in the year 1263. He had the title of Lord Bolebeck, which came by his mother Isabella de Bolebeck, daughter and heir of Hugh de Bolebeck, a Baron, who was Lord of Bolebeck Castle in Whitechurch within Buckinghamshire, and of Swaffam Bolebeck in Cambridgeshire. He had to wife Hawisia the daughter of Saier de Quincy, Earl of Winchester, as appears by this Inscription sometime insculpt upon their Tomb. Hic iacent Hugo de Veer eius nominis primus: Comes Oxonie quartus, magnus Camerarius Anglie, filius & heres Roberti Comitis, & Hawisua uxor cius, filia Saeri de Quincy comitis Wintonie, qui quidem Hugo obiit 1263. Quorum animabus propitietur altissimus. Robert de Vere 〈◊〉 of Oxford. Robert de Vere, the son of Hugh aforesaid, Earl of Oxford, who enjoyed his father's inheritances and honours the space of thirty and two years, lieth here entombed with his ancestors: who died in the year 1295. Alice his wife, the daughter and heir of Gilbert Lord Samford, Lord of Hormead in Hertfordshire was interred by him, who died at Caufeld house near Dunmow, the ninth day of September, 1312. Robert de Vere the son of Robert Earl of Oxford. Here lieth buried the body of Robert de Vere, son and successor to the foresaid Robert, whose government both in peace and war was so prudent, his hospitality and other works of charity so wisely abundant; and his Temperance with a religious zeal so admirably conjoined, that he was of all surnamed the good Earl of Oxford; and the vulgar esteemed him as a Saint. He died the 19 of April, 1331. Robert de Vere Earl of Oxford, and Duke of Ireland Here lieth entombed Robert de Vere, Richard the seconds Minion; who to add to his honours created him marquis of Dublin, a title not known before that time in England, and in the year following Duke of Ireland, with commission to execute most inseparable prerogatives royal. These Styles were of too high a nature, and therefore infinitely subjected to envy. Whereupon, like a second Gaveston, he was hated of the Nobility; especially for that he was a man nec prudentia, caeteris proceribus, nec armis valentior, as Walsingham saith, 9 R. 2. But it was not long before he was banished England by the Barons, for abusing the King's ear to the hurt of the State. He had to wife a young, fair, and noble Lady, and the Kings near kinswoman (for she was grandchild to King Edward by his daughter Isabella) he put her away, and took one of Queen Anne's women, a Bohemian of base birth, Sellarij filia, saith Walsingham, a Saddler's daughter, some say a joiners, an act full of wickedness and indignity. Yet this intolerable villainy offered to the blood-royal, Speed in vita R. 2. King Richard did not encounter, neither had the power, some say, who deemed that by witchcrafts and forceries (practised upon him by one of the Duke's followers) his judgement was so seduced and captivated, that he could not see what was honest or si● to do. But where Princes are wilful or slothful, and their Favourites flatterers or timeservers, there needs no other enchantments to infatuate, yea and ruinate the greatest Monarch. Upon his banishment he went into France, where he lived about five years, and there being a hunting, he was slain by a wild Boar, in the year 1392. King Richard hearing thereof, out of his love, caused his body to be brought into England, and to be apparelled in Princely ornaments and robes, and put about his neck a chain of gold, and Rings upon his fingers, and so was buried in this Priory; the King being there present, and wearing blacks. Aubrey de Vere Earl of Oxford. After the death of Robert Duke of Ireland, who died without issue, his Nephew Aubrey de Vere succeeded him in the Earldom of Oxford; he enjoyed his honours not passing eight years, but died die Veneris in festo Sancti Georgij, Ann. primo Hen. quarti, 1400. and lieth here entombed with his worthy Ancestors. john de Vere Earl of Oxford. Here lieth buried in this Priory john de Vere, the third of that Christian name, and the thirteenth Earl of Oxford, Lord Bolebecke, Samford, and Scales, great Chamberlain, and Lord high Admiral of England. Who died the fourth of Henry the eight, 1512. having been Earl of Oxford full fifty years; a long time to tug out, in the troublesome reigns of so many kings, especially for men of eminent places and high spirits, ever apt to take any occasion to show their manly prowess: which fire of honour flamed in this Earl's breast, at Barnet field, where (in a mist) the great Earl of Warwick's men, not able to distinguish betwixt the Sun with streams upon King Edward's livery, and the Star with streams on this Earl's livery, shot at this Earls followers; and by that misprision the battle was lost. After which he fled into Cornwall, and seized upon Saint michael's Mount. But Edward the fourth got him in his power, and committed him prisoner to the Castle of Hames beyond the Seas, where he remained for the space of twelve years, until the first of King Henry the seventh, with whom he came into England, and by whom he was made Captain of the Archers at Bosworth-field, where after a short resistance he discomfited the Forward of King Richard, whereof a great number were slain in the chase, and no small number fell under the victor's sword. This Earl gave a great contribution to the finishing of Saint Mary's Church in Cambridge; His hospitality, and the great port he carried here in his country, may be gathered out of a discourse, in that exquisite History of Henry the seventh, penned by that learned and judicious Statesman, Sir Francis Bacon, Viscount Saint Alban, lately deceased. The last Earl that I find to be here entombed of ancient times, Io de Vere E. of Oxford. is john de Vere, the fourth of that christian name, Earl of Oxford, Lord Bulbeck Samford and Scales, Lord great Chamberlain of England, and Knight of the Garter; he was commonly called little john of Camps, Castle Camps, in Cambridgeshire, being the ancient seat of the Veres, where this Earl used much to reside; He married Anne, daughter of Thomas Howard Duke of Norfolk, and died without issue the 14 of July, 1526. I find in a book of Dunmow, Maud, Countess of Oxford in bib. Cot. that Maud, the wife of john de Vere the seventh Earl of Oxford, lieth here entombed: she was the daughter of Bartholomew, Lord Badelismere, Baron of Leedes in Kent; and one of the heirs of Giles Lord Badelismere her brother. She was first married to Robert, son of Robert Fitz-Paine. She outlived her later husband some few years, and died the 24. of May, 1365. ... Coggeshall. ....... Coggeshale ...... mil. .... M. ccc. ..... For which of the name, this broken inscription should be engraven, I cannot learn; but I find that these Coggeshals in foregoing ages, were Gentlemen of exemplary regard and knightly degree, whose ancient habitation was in this Town; one of which family was knighted by King Edward the third, the same day that he created Edward his eldest son Earl of Chester, and Duke of Cornwall, Anno 1336. Hic iacet Thomas Paycocke quondam Carnifex de Coggeshal qui obijt 21 Maij, Tho. Paycock Butcher, and Christian his wife. 1461. et Christiana uxor eius, quorum animabus. Prey for the sowl of Robert Paycock of Coggeshale clothmaker, for Elizabeth and joan his wyfs, Robert Paycock, Elis and joan his wives. who died 21. Octob. 1520. on whose soul. Here lieth Thomas Paycock clothworker, Margaret and Ann his wyfs: which Tho. died the 4. of September, Tho. Paycock, Marg and Anne his wives. 1518. Orate pro anima johannis Paycock et johanne uxoris eius, qui quidem Iohannes obijt 2 Aprilis 1533. john Paycock and joan his wife. The Creed in Latin is all curiously inlaid with brass, round about the Tombstone, Credo in Deum patrem, etc. Io. Kebull, Isabel and joan his wives Orate pro animabus Iohannis Kebulet Isabelle et johanne ux. eius Quorum, etc. About the verge of the stone in brass, a Pater noster inlaid. Pater Noster qui es in celis sanctificetur nomen tuum, and so to the end of the prayer. Upon the midst of the marble this Aue Maria. Aue Maria, gratia plena; Dominus tecum: Benedicta tu: in mulieribus; et benedictus sit fructus ventris tui. jesus Amen. 〈◊〉 Goldwyre, Isabel and Christian his wife. I have not seen such rich monuments, for so mean persons. Orate pro anima Gulielmi Goldwyre, et Isabelle et Christiane uxorum, qui quidem Gulielmus obijt. ... 1514. Marry Mother maiden clear Prey for me William Goldwyre. And for me Isabel his wife. Lady for thy joys fyf. Have mercy on Christian his second wife, Sweet jesus for thy wowndies fyf. Foundation of Coggeshall Abbey. 〈◊〉 in bib. Cott Here in this town of Cogshal was sometime an Abbey built, and endowed by King Stephen, and Maud his Queen, in the year 1140. the fifth of his reign, according to the book of Saint Augustine's in Canterbury, Anno M. c. xl. facta est Abbathia de Cogeshal a Rege Stephano et Matilde Regina, qui primo fundaverunt Abbathiam de furnace, Abbatiam de Longeleyrs, et postea Abbathiam de Feversham, etc. this house was dedicated to the blessed Virgin Mary, wherein were placed white Monks ●luniackes; the revenues of which were valued to be yearly worth 298. l. 8. s. it was surrendered the 18. of March, 29. Hen. 8. Adjoining to the Road called Coccill-way, which to this town leadeth, was lately found an arched Vault of brick, and therein a burning lamp of glass covered with a Roman Tile some 14 inches square, and one Urn with ashes and bones, besides two sacrificing dishes of smooth and polished red earth, having the bottom of one of them with fair Roman letters inscribed, COCCILLI. M. I may probably conjecture this to have been the sepulchral monument of the Lord of this town, who lived about the time of Antoninus Pius, (as by the coin there likewise found appeareth) the affinity between his and the now towns name being almost one and the same. These remain in the custody of that judicious great Statesman Sir Richard Weston Knight, Baron Weston of Nealand, Lord Treasurer of England, and of the most honourable Order of the Garter companion. Who for his approved virtues and industry, both under father and son, doth to the public good fully answer the place and dignity. Before these times, in a place called Westfield, three quarters of a mile distant from this town, and belonging to the Abbey there, was found by touching of a plough, Camd. in Essex a great brazen pot: The ploughmen supposing to have been hid treasure, sent for the Abbot of Cogeshall to see the taking up of it; and he going thither, met with Sir Clement Harleston, and desired him also to accompany him thither. The mouth of the pot was closed with a white substance, like past or clay, as hard as burned brick: when that by force was removed, there was found within it another pot, but that was of earth; that being opened, there was found in it a lesser pot of earth, of the quantity of a gallon, covered with a matter like Velvet, and fastened at the mouth with a silk lace; in it they found some whole bones, and many pieces of small bones wrapped up in fine silk, of fresh colour, which the Abbot took for the relics of some Saints, and laid up in his Vestuary. Bocking Dorewards. So denominated of the Dorewardes sometimes Lords of this town, and Patrons of this fat Parsonage, which is xxxv. l. x. s. in the King's books▪ as I am persuaded by relation, and these Inscriptions upon ancient Tombs. Hic iacet johannes Doreward Armig. filius Willelmi Doreward mil .... qui obijt .... 1420. et Isabella uxor eius ....: Io. Doreward and Isab. his wife. Hic iacet johannes Doreward Armiger qui obiit xxx. die januar. Anno Dom. Mil. cccc. lxv. et Blancha uxor eius que obiit ... die men's. men's An Dom. Mil. cccc. lx. quorum animabus propitietur dens. Amen. Claviger Ethereus nobis sis janitor almus. Haulsteed. The Lordship of Stansteed within this Parish, was the ancient inheritance of the noble family of the Bourchiers, in which they had a mansion house; many of which surname, lie here entombed; to continue whose remembrance in the south side of the Choir is a Chapel, which to this day is called Bowsers Chapel, wherein they lie interred; the inscriptions which were upon their monuments, are quite gone, this one following excepted. Hic iacet Bartholomeus quondam Dominus de Bourgchier, Bartholomew Lord Bourchier, Marg. and Idonea his wives. Rob. Bourchier Lo Chancellor Camd. in Essex qui obiit viii. die mens. Maii Anno Dom. M. cccc.ix. et Margereta Sutton ac Idonea Louey uxores eius. Quorum animabus propitietur Deu S. Amen. Under another of these monuments, lieth the body of Robert Bourchier, Lord Chancellor of England, in the fourteenth year of King Edward the third, from whom (saith the light of great Britain, Clarentie●x) sprang a most honourable progeny of Earls, and Barons of that name. Here stands a monument, under which one of the right honourable family of the Veres lieth interred, it is much defaced .... Georgio Vere filio Georgii Vere .... militis ....... 1498. High Eastern: Here lieth Dame Agnes Gate, the wife of Sir Geffrey Gate knight, the which Sir Geffrey was six years Captane of the Isle of Wight, Agnes Lady Gate. and after, Marshal of Caleys, and there kept with the Pykards' worschipul wars, and evyr intended as a good Knight, to please the King in the parties of Normandy with all his might: which Agnes died the ix. of Decembyr. M. cccc.lxxxvii. on whose soul jesus have mercy, Amen. Prey for the sowl all ye that live in sight, Of Sir Geffrey Gate, the curtess knight, Whos wyff is buried here by Goddys' might. He bowght the Manor of Garnets' by right Of Koppeden gentleman, so he behight Of this Witnesses his wyff and Executors. This yer ...... delihowrs. xxii. jan. M. cccc. lxxvii. Pater de celis Deus miserere nobis: Fili redemptor mundi Deus miserere nobis. Sancta Trinitas unus Deus miserere nobis. This Manor of Garnets' here mentioned, and all his other inheritance (as I have it by relation from the Inhabitants) about fourscore years after the death of this Sir Geffray, was forfeited to the Crown, by the attainder of Sir john Gate Knight, beheaded on the Tower hill, with john Dudley Duke of Northumberland, and Sir Thomas Palmer Knight, for that they had endeavoured to have made Lady jane, (the daughter of Henry Grey, Duke of Suffolk, by Frances his wife, who was the daughter of Charles Brandon Duke of Suffolk, by Mary his wife, second sister to King Henry the eight, and the wife of Guildford Dudley, the fourth son of the said Duke of Northumberland) Queen of England, the xxii. of August, M. ccccc. 53. the first of Queen Mary. Barmiston. Peter wood. Of your cherite prey for the sowl of Peter Wood, Who died the thirtyth day of May, Unto him that was crucified on the rood, To send him joys for ay. Castle Heningham. Io. Vere Earl of Oxford. Here lieth interred under a Tomb of marble and Tuch now ruinous, john de Vere the fifth of that Christian name, Earl of Oxford, Lord Bulbeck, Samford and Scales, and great Chamberlain of England. Upon which monument I find nothing engraven, but the names of his children which he had by his wife Elizabeth, daughter & heir of Edward Trussell of Staffordshire knight Banneret. Which were three sons and three daughters, namely, john de Vere, the sixth of that Christian name, Earl of Oxford; In the Catalogue of honour. Brooke. Aubrey de Vere second son; Geffrey Vere the third son (Father of john Vere of Kirbey Hall, of Sir Francis Vere knight, the great Leader in the Low countries, and of that renowned Soldier, Sir Horatio Vere knight, Lord Baron of Tilbery in this County) Elizabeth, married to Thomas Lord Darcy of Chich: Anne wife to Edmund Lord Sheffield, and Francis, married to Henry Howard Earl of Surrey. This Earl john was knight of the Garter, and Counsellor of State to king Henry the eight. Who died here in his Castle at Heveningham the 19 of March, 1539. Prey for the soul of Dorethy Scroop, Dorothy Scroop. daughter of Richard Scroop, brother to the Lord Scroop of Bolton .... who .... 1491. This Dorothy was sister of Elisabeth (the widow of William Lord Beaumond, and daughter of Richard Scroop knight) the second wife of john de Vere, the third of that Christian name, Earl of Oxford. In a parchment Roll without date, The foundation of a Priory in Heveningham. belonging to the Earl of Oxford, I find that one Lucia (belike some one of that right honourable house) founded a Priory in this Parish for black veiled Nuns: Which she dedicated to the holy Grosse, and the blessed Virgin Mary. Of which religious foundation she herself was the first Prioress: whose death was wondrously lamented by Agnes, who did next succeed her in that office, and the rest of the Covent: who desire the prayers and suffrages of all the religious houses in England, for her soul's health. The form whereof to transcribe, cannot seem much impertinent to the subject I have in hand, nor tedious to the judicious Reader. Anima domine Lucy, prime & Fundatricis Ecclesie Sancte Crucis et Sancte Marie de Heningham, Lucy Lady Prioress of Heningham. et anime Ricardi et Sare, Galfridi et Dametre, et Helen, et anime omnium defunctorum per miserecordiam Dei requiescant in pace. Amen. Vniversis sancte Matris Ecclesie filiis ad quos presens scriptum pervenerit: Agnes Ecclesie sancte crucis, & Sancte Marie de Henigeham humilis Ministra; eiusdemque loci conventus eternam in Domino salutem. Post imbres lacrimarum, et fletuum innundacionem quam in transitu karissime Matris nostre venerande Lucy prime Priorisse ac fundatricis Domus nostre fudimus: que vocante Domino tertio Idus julij, viam vniuerse carnis ingressa, terre debitum humani generis persoluit: manum misimus ad calamum universitati vestre scripto denunciantes calamitatem quam patimur: subtracta enim tam felici matre, in hac valle misery simul & cor nostrum dereliquit nos. ec mirum, cum eadem tot virtutum polleret moribus; tantis gratiarum rutilaret honoribus; tot meritorum fragaret odoribus: ut merito illi congruat hoc nomen Lucia, quod est lucis scientia. Recte ideo Lucia dicta, quia nomen beat virgins Lucy sortita, illius pro viribus imitabatur exempla. Illa meritis & precibus fluxum sanguinis in Matre delevit. Ista in se omnis motus concupiscentie carnalis restringens, fluxum in aliis incontinentie & contaminationis per ariditatem sancte conversationis & sobrie vite radicitus extirpavit. Illa sponso suo carnalem copulam nutu divino subtraxit. Ista ut novimus vinculo Matrimonij septies constricta, consortii virilis ignara; incontaminata semper & illesa permansit, & ita de laqueo venantium temporaliter est erepta. Et hoc fecit divina prudentia, ut nullum preter eum admitteret amatorem. Ista etiam discreta fuit in silentio utilis in verbo, verecundia gravis, pudore venerabilis, singulis compassione proxima, pre cunctis contemplatione suspensa; sicque studuit bene agentibus esse per humilitatem socia ut per zelum iusticie delinquentium corrigeret errata. Vnde in titillatione carnis ex ea didicimus habere prudentiam, in adversitate fortitudinem; in tribulatione patientiam, in desperatione solatium; in periculo refugium, in estu refrigerium, in asperitate lenitatem. Et suit nobis ipsius exemplo lectio fr●quentior, oratio pinguior, & feruentior affectus. Quid multa, tanta efflor●●● in hac benignissima virgine, & pia matre nostra virtus abstinentie, tanta ieiuniorum & vigiliarum nec non & vestimentorum asperitate, disciplinarum que assiduitate corpus suum extenuavit ut fere simul cum Iob sanctissimo, pelli sue consumptis carnibus os suum adhereret. Et hec talis tantaque sublata est, et hec omnia simul. Migravit autem ad illum qui sibi fructuum decimas persolui voluit, qui etiam Decalogum constituit mandatorum. Miseremini igitur nostri, miseremini nostri saltem vos amici nostri; et vobis miseris compatiamini fluentes lacrimas per orationum suffragia desiccantes: quia pium est & saluberrimum pro defunctis exorare ut à peccatis solvantur. Subuenite igitur benigni Monachi, subvenite venerabiles Canonici, & vos sancte virgins, in conspectu Altissimi preces & bostias offerentes, ut ipsius pie misercatur qui abstergit omnem lacrimam ab oculis Sanctorum, quatenus que ei macule de terrenis contagijs adheserunt, remissionis eius remedio deleantur. Amen. To this Supplication the religious of all houses answer in this form. Titulus Ecclesie Apostolorum Petri & Pauli & sancte Osithe Virgins & Matris de Chich. Anima Domine Lucie Priorisse de Hengeham et anime omnium sidelium defunctorum per Dei miserecordiam requiescant in pace. Amen. Concedimus ei commune beneficium Ecclesie nostre. Oranimus pro vestris, orate pro nostris. Some again do answer thus: Preter autem commune beneficium et orationes communes Ecclesie nostre, concedimus ei ab unoquoque Sacerdote unam Missam, inferioris ordinis unum Psalterium, et diem ipsius obitus in Martyrilogio nostro annotari fecimus. All concluding ever with Oranimus pro vestris, orate pro nostris. Under the picture of the Crucifix, the blessed Virgin, and upon her portraiture drawn upon her Tomb, these nicking, nice, allusive verses were cut and engraven. Upon the Crucifi●e. Crux bona crux digna lignum super omnia ligna. Me tibi consigna redimens a peste maligna. Upon the vergine Mary. Stella Maris, candoris ebur speculum Paradysi Fons veny, vite ianua, Virgo vale. Upon the image of Lucy. Hec Virgo vite mitis super astra locatur. Et sic Lucie lux sine fine datur. Transijt ad superos venerabilis hec Monialis. Vix succedit ei virtutum munere talis. Luci lucy prece lux mediente Marry Luceat eterna, quia floruit ut rosa verna. Ad lucem Lucia venit sine fine manentem. Et sic quem coluit patrem videt omnipotentem. Tres tibi gemmate lucent Lucia coron●. Insuper aurate dic lector qua ration●. Mater virgo tamen Martir fuit, ergo inu Amen. Cernat ad examen districti judicis Amen. Subueniant anime Lucy celica queque Ad quorum laudes dapsilis urna f●it. Sible Heveningham. In this Parish Church sometime stood a Tomb, arched over, and engraven to the likeness of Hawks flying in a wood, which was raised to the remembrance of Sir john Hawkewood knight, Sir Io. Hawkewood knight. borne in this village, the son of Gilbert Hawkewood Tanner, bound an apprentice to a Tailor in the City of London; Stow Annal. from whence he was pressed in the service of King Edward the third, in the wars of France. Of whom for his admired valour, he was honoured with the order of knighthood; and in the like regard of his notable demerits, Barnaby the warlike brother of Galeasius, Lord of Milan (father to john the first, Duke of Milan) gave him his daughter Domnia in marriage: by whom he had a son named john, borne in Italy, made knight, and naturalised in the seventh year of King Hon. the fourth; as I have it out of a Manuscript in these words. In bib Cot & in Arch Tu●● Lon●. 1 Pars 〈◊〉. Ann. 8. H. 4. m. ●0. johannes silius johannis Haukewood Miles, natus in partibus Italie factus indigena Ann. viii. Hen. iiij. matter eius nata in partibus transmarinis. The Florentines in testimony of his surpassing valour, and singular faithful service to their state, adorned him with the statue of a man of arms, and a sumptuous Monument, wherein his ashes remain honoured at this present day. The Italian writers, both * Paul. joyous in E●g. Historians and Camd. in Essex Poets, resound his worthy acts with full mouth. But for my part (to use M. Camden's words) it may suffice to add unto the rest these four verses of julius Feroldus. Hawkwood Anglorum decus, et decus addite genti Italicae, Italico praesidiumque solo. Vt tumuli quondam Florentia, sic simulacri, Virtutem jovius donat honore tuam. The glory prime of Englishmen, then of Italians bold, O Hawkwood, and to Italy a sure defensive hold: Thy virtue Florence honoured sometime with costly Grave, And jovius adorns the same now with a Statue brave. He died an aged man, in the year of our redemption, 1394. and in the eighteenth of King Richard the second. His friends here in England, who erected for him the foresaid Monument in this Church (which were Robert Rokeden signior, Stow Annal. Robert Rokeden junior, and john Coe) founded here also for him a chantry, and another in the Priory of Heningham Castle, to pray for his soul, and the souls of john Oliver, and Thomas Newenton Esquires, his military companions. Chesterford. William Holden and Agnes his wife. Here lie the bodies of William Holden, and Agnes his wife, which William died ... 1532. on whose souls and all Christian souls. ... Here lie William Holden and Katherine his wife ...... 1524. This family (as I was told) is now extinct, here is an old ruinous house still remaining, called Holdens. Saffron Walden. So called of the great plenty of Saffron growing in the fields round about the Town, a commodity brought into England in the time of King Edward the third. But I digress, and am quite off my Subject; being out of the Parish Church wherein Sir Thomas Audley, knight of the Garter, Baron Audley of this Town, sometime Sergeant at Law, Attorney of the Duchy of Lancaster, and Lord Chancellor of England, lieth entombed; with this seeli Epitaph. Tho. Lord Audley. The stroke of deaths inevitable dart; Hath now, alas, of life bereft the hart, Of Sir Thomas Audley, of the Garter knight: Later Chancellor of England under our Prince of might. Henry the eight, worthy of high renown, And made by him Lord Audley of this Town. Obijt ultimo Aprilu, Ann. Dom. 1544. Henrici 36. Cancelleriatus sui 13. aetatis 56. Tho. Holden. Have mercy good Lord on the soul of Thomas Holden, That hit may rest with God good neighbours say Amen. He gave the new Organs whereon his name is set; For because only ye should not him forget; In your good preyers: to God he took his weigh, On thousand fyve hundred and elevin, in Novembyr the fourth day. Hic iacet his stratus West Matheus tumulatus, Matthew West. Priest Rector Qui fuit hic gratus vicarius civeque natus. M. Dominiter C .... terris sit remeatus Huic ......: existit propiciatus. Io. Nichols and his four wives Of your cherite prey for the souls of jon Nichols, Alys, jone, Alys, and jone his wyfs. johannes: Pater Noster miserere nobis. Alisia: Fili redemptor mundi miserere nobis. joanna: Spiritus sancte miserere nobis. Alisia. Sancta Maria miserere nobis. joanna. Sancta dei genetrix, virgo virginum, miserere nobis. Here lieth interred under an ancient monument very ruinous, the body of one leech, a great benefactor to this Church, as appeareth by this his broken Epitaph. ................... Quo non est, Lechec. nec erit, nec clarior extitit ullus; .... clausum hoc marmore .... habet Huic Lech nomen erat, divine legis amator Huius quem Templi curam habuisse palam est. Iste huic multa dabat sacro donaria Fano Inceptique operis sedulus Author erat. Pauperibus fuit inde pius, pavit miserosque, Et me qui temere hec carmina composui. Sit Huius ergo anima ..... celum .... ut altum Huc quiades instanti pectore funde preces. Prey for the soul of Katerin Semar, Walter Coke, Roger Pirke, and Thomas Semar, husband to the said Katerin, principal founder of the priest which singeth before the Trinity. For these souls say a Pater noster and an Aue of cherite. Who so him bethoft, The like before in Feversham. full inwardly and oft. How hard 'tis to flit, from bed to the pit. From pit unto pain, which shall never end certain, He would not do on sin, all the world to win. Orate .... Hugonis Price Abbatis Monasterij de Conwey Cicestrens. ordinis, Hugh Price Abbot. Assavens. Dioces, qui ab hac vita migravit ad Christum viii. julij M. ccccc.xx.viii. Conditur hoc tumulo corpus Chynt ecce johannis, Io. Chynt Priest Rector. Doctrine speculum plebi qui fulfit in annis. Istius Ecclesie regimen contraxerat ipse, Atque cacumine Doctorali vixit ille. M. C quater anno sexagenoque secundo, Martini festo decessit ab orbe molesto. Author sophy suffragia facta Marie Per te Magdelena sint mihi remedia. Vicarius gratus Robertus Wylde vocitatus▪ Robert Wyld Priest, Rector. Hic iacet, et mundus, prudens fuit, atque facundus▪ Pacem seruavit, et oves proprias bene pavit, Et residens annis bis denis plus quoque trinis; Anno milleno sic C quater octuageno Quarto, lux dena septena fuit sibi pena. januar. .... cuius celo sit amena. This Town was famous in times past, (saith Clarentieux) for a Castle of the Magnavilles (which now is almost all vanished out of sight) and an Abbey adjoining, The foundation of Walden Abbey. founded in a place very commodious, in the year 1136. wherein the Magnavilles, founders thereof, were buried. The principal and first founder hereof, was Geffrey Magnavile, or Mandevill the first Earl of Essex, with Rohesia or Rose his wife, daughter of Aubrey de Vere, chief justice of England, who consecrated this their religious Structure to the honour of God, the blessed Virgin Mary, and Saint james the Apostle, endowed it with large revenues, and placed therein black Monks; to which effect will it please you read a few words out of his deed of Grant. In Arch. Tu●r. 〈◊〉. Gaufridus de Mandevilla comes Essex, etc. salutem. Ad universitatis vesire noticiam volo pervenire me fundasse quoddam monasterium in usus Monachorum apud Waldenam, in honore Dei, et sancte Marie et beati jacobi Apostoti, pro salute anime me et omnium parentum, antecessorum & successsorum meorum, etc. To which by the same deed he giveth the Churches of Walden, Waltham, Estrene, Sabridgworth, Thorley and others. This house was valued at the suppression, to be yearly worth, four hundred six pounds, fifteen shillings and eleven pence. This place is now called Audley End, of Sir Thomas Audley Lord Chancellor, (of whom I have spoken before) who changed the Abbey into his own dwelling house; whose sole daughter and heir Margaret, was second wife to Thomas Howard Duke of Norfolk, and mother of Thomas Lord Howard of Walden, Earl of Suffolk, lately deceased, who lived to finish here a most magnificent building, belonging at this present to that worthy gentleman Theophilus his son and heir, Lord Walden and Earl of Suffolk. Geffrey de Mandevill the founder aforesaid, a man both mighty and martial, was shot into the head with an arrow, a quodam pedite vilissimo, saith Hoveden, out of the Castle of Burwell in Cambridgeshire; of which wound, after certain days he died, being at that time excommunicated. Lying at the point of death, ready to give his last gasp, Camd. in 〈◊〉 (saith Camden out of the Register book of Walden) there came by chance certain Knights Templars, who laid upon him the habit of their religious profession, signed with a red cross, and afterwards when he was full dead, taking him up with them, enclosed him within a coffin of lead, and hung him upon a tree in the Orchard of the old Temple at London, in the year 1144. for in a reverend awe of the Church, they durst not bury him, because he died excommunicated, so fearful in those days was the sentence of excommunication: a violent invader he was of other men's lands, and possessions, and therefore justly incurred (saith the same Author) the world's censure, and this heavy doom of the Church: but I must leave him, where buried, or where not buried, God knows. As the Church of this monastery was honoured with the funeral monuments of the Mandevills, so was it with those of the Bohuns, Earls of Hereford and Essex, of which you may read in the Catalogues of Nobility. It was also honoured with the Sepulture of Humphrey Plantagenet, Earl of Buckingham, (the only son of Thomas Earl of Buckingham, and Duke of Gloucester, commonly called Thomas of Woodstock, the youngest son of King Edward the third) who (after the untimely death of his father) was banished into Ireland by King Richard the second, and being recalled backed again by King Henry the fourth, in the first year of his reign, in his return died of the plague in Chester, from whence, his mother Elinor daughter and coheir of Humphrey de Bohun Earl of Hereford, Essex, and Northampton, caused his body to be conveyed to this Abbey, which she sumptuously here interred, amongst his and her noble progenitors; his mother, the said Elinor, lived not long after him, but died the third of October in the same year, as in a French Inscription upon her monument in Westminster you may read; and scarce two years after the murder of her husband at Calais; of whose deaths thus writeth that old Poet Sir john Gower Knight, in his book entitled Vox Clamantis. Interea transit moriens nec in orbe remansit, Humfredus dictus redit ille Deo benedictus. Defuncto nato cito post de fine beato Mater transivit, dum nati funera scivit. Primo decessit * The Duke of Gloucester, because the Swan was his cognisance. Cignus dolour under repressit: Matrem cum pullo sibi mors nec parcit in ullo. Liston. Hic iacet ..... Liston de Ouerhal .... que ob .... All that I can make of this maimed inscription is, that joan, the wife of William Liston, held the Manor of Ouerhall in this parish by grand Sergeantie, namely by the service of paying for, Abstract 〈…〉 An 41. Ed. 3. bringing in, and placing of five Wafers before the King, as he sits at dinner upon the day of his coronation: and whether this be she here buried or not I know not. Richard Lions held the said Manor after her, An ● Rich. 2. by the service of making Wafers, upon the day of the King's Coronation, and of serving the King with the same Wafers as he sits at dinner the same day. Leez Abbey. This Abbey of old time was founded by the Gernons; now it is the seat of the Right Honourable, Leez Abbey. and one right worthy of all his due honours, Robert Lord Rich, Baron Leez, and Earl of Warwick now living, An. 1631. This Abbey or Priory, was valued at the time of the suppression, as it is in the catalogue of Religious houses, to be yearly worth one hundred forty one pound, fourteen shillings eight pence. Rickling. Humphrey Waldene le premer gist icy Humphrey Waiden Dieu de salme eit mercy. Amen. Hen Langley and Mar. his wife. Hic iacet Henricus Langley Armig. qui obijt xx. Sept. M. cccc.lviii. et Margareta uxor cius una filiarum et heredum johannis Waldene Armigeri, que obijt v. Martii, M. cccc.liii. Tho. Langley. Hic tacet Thomas Langley Ar. qui obijt 1 Mar. M. cccc.lii. Hen Langley and Lady Katherine his wife. Here lieth Henry Langley Esquyr, and Dame Katherine his wyff, which Henry departed this life, 11 April, M. cccc, lxxx. viii. and Dame Katherine died ..... the year of our Lord God, M. ..... on whose. Upon this last marble stone are the portraitures in brass, of the three daughters of Henry Langley, amongst whom his inheritance was divided, as I have it by tradition, as walden's was before: whose chief seat was at Langley Wilbores in this parish. Thaxted. This Church is spacious, beautiful, and built Cathedrall-like; but neither in this Church, in Braintrie, nor scarcely in any other Church seated within a Market Town, shall you find either Monument or Inscription: only some two or three Inscriptions are here remaining. Ric. Dammary and Alice his wife. Her lieth Richard Dammary and Alys his wyff, and Richard Dammary his son, jone, Elizabyth, and Ann, on whose souls God have mercy. Which Richard the yongyrgawe a Meide called Abel Meide, for a perpetual mind yearly to be kept for their souls and all christian souls. Sir Walter Clarke Priest. Sir Walter Clerk gist icy Dieu de s'alme eit mercy. Rich. Large and Alice his wife. Orate pro animabus Richardi Large et Alicie uxoris eius, qui quidem Richardus obijt 27. Martij 1458. The Inhabitants say, that this Richard Large was brother to a certain Lord Mayor of London, named Large, who at his death bestowed wondrous largely upon the poor, and the repairing of high ways; which I take to have been Robert Large, Mayor of London, Anno 1440. who gave 120. l. to poor prisoners, and every year for five year, 403. Shirts and Smocks, 40. pair of Sheets, and one hundred and fifty Gowns of good Freeze, to poor people. To poor Maid's marriages, one hundred marks; to repairing high ways, one hundred marks; to five hundred poor people in London, every one six shillings viii. d. the rest of his bountiful charity you may read in Stow Survey. Little Easton. Will. Bourchier 〈…〉, Earl of Ewe. Here is a goodly Tomb of marble on the north side of the Chancel, ●nder which saith Brook, in his Catalogue of Nobility, William Bourchier Earl of Ewe in Normandy lieth interred; but Vincent, (whom I rather believe) (in his discovery of Brooks Errors) approves this Earl, as also his wife Anne (the daughter of Thomas of Woodstock Duke of Gloucester) to be buried in the Abbey of Lanthonie by Gloucester. If this monument could speak like others by her inscription, it might haply decide the controversy: but all the words upon it are, Fili Dei miserere mei, Mater Dei miserere mei. Which seemingly cometh by a label from a man, and a woman thereupon portrayed. Of this Earl more when I come to Lanthony. Between the Chancel and the Bowsers Isle or Chapel, Hen. Bourchier E. of Essex. is a very costly arched Tomb of polished marble, inlaid with brass, the picture of a man and a woman, and in diverse places of the foresaid Arch, on the woman's side, is the Fetter lock and Bowsers knot, but without inscription. By supposition made to the memory of Henry Bourchier (son of William Bourchier aforesaid, Earl of Essex and Ewe; and Isabella his wife, daughter of Richard Earl of Cambridge, and sister of Richard Duke of York. Which Henry died quarto Aprilis, 1483. a valiant and worthy Nobleman he was, fortunate in Martial enterprises; and in matters of peace so learned, wise, and politic, that he was thought fit by Edward the fourth to be Lord Chancellor of England. In the same Chapel, Hen. Bourchier E. of Essex. on the North side, remaineth a very fair Altar Tomb of marble, within the which lieth the body of Henry Lord Bourchier and Louvain, and Earl of Essex, Son and heir of William Bourchier, that died before his father, and grandchild to Henry Earl of Essex, next before mentioned: over his Tomb hangeth as yet part of his achievements, as the cote of his Arms, Helme, Crest, and sword. This Earl broke his neck by a fall from his horse, the twelfth day of March, in the one and thirtieth year of the reign of King Henry the eight, 1539. His horse was young, saith Stow, Stow Annal. and he the oldest Earl in England: for if you will reckon the years from the death of his Grandfather, who lived after his son, the father of this Henry (as I have said before) until the year of this his fatal misfortune, you shall find them to be fifty six; and what age he was at his Grandfather's death you may imagine: In the Hall of the Manor house of Newton, Out of certain ancient collections in Essex. in the Parish of little Dunmowe, remaineth in old painting two postures; the one for an ancestor of the Bourchiers, combatant with another, being a Pagan king, for the truth of Christ; whom the said Englishman overcame, and in memory thereof his descendants have ever since borne the head of the said Infidel, as also used the surname of Bourchier or Bowser. Here are four wondrous ancient Monuments of the Lovaines, all the Inscriptions of them are worn out, these few words excepted. Sire Thomas Louvain ici gist Margarie la file Moun .... Sir Tho. Louvain knight. This noble family of the Lovaines' in former ages did here inhabit, by the name of Fitz-Gilbert, Camd. in Essex one of which house, namely, Maurice Fitz-Gilbert, was surnamed the Louvain, as descended from Godfrey of Louvain, brother to Henry the sixth of that name, Duke of Brabant. Who being sent hither to keep the honour of Eye his posterity flourished among the Peers of this Realm, to the time of Edward the third: when the heir general was married to the house of Bourchier. This Bowsers Chapel (for it is so commonly called) is now the burial place for the noble family of the Maynards. Robert Northburnt. In Northburne natus Robertus sum vocitatus, De terra factus in terram sumque redactus: Intercedendo spiritum tibi Christe comendo. In the window Propitietur Deus Benefactoribus omnibus Ecclesie pauperis huius. The treble Bell in the steeple of this Church is called the Bowsers Bell, on which is cast a piece of coin of silver, of King Edward the fourth; it was given by one of the Countesses of Essex, as one may partly gather by an old Inscription; upon it is the Bowsers knot. Tiltey. The foundation of Tiltey Abbey. Here sometime stood a Monastery founded by Maurice Fitz-Gilbert, before remembered, not long after the Conquest, which he dedicated to the honour of the Virgin Mary, and therein placed white Monks of the Cistertian order. The donations to this religious house are confirmed in the Records of the Tower, Cart. Antiq. lit. S. The valuation of it at the suppression was 177. l. 9: s. 4. d. This Monastery is not altogether ruinous, in the little Church whereof I found these Funeral Inscriptions following. Des. Leicest. lit. B. Bruntingthorpe near to Leicester hath long been the habitation of the ancient family of Dannet, saith Master Burton, who beareth sable Guttee Argent a Canton Ermine, one of which family lieth here interred, with this Epitaph. Gerard Dannet 〈◊〉 Mary his wife: Hic iacet sepultus, cum coniuge Maria Gerardus Dannet de Bruntingthorp in Com Lecestr. Ar. & serenissimi Regis Henrici octavi Consiliarius, qui obijt Anno Christi M. ccccc.xx. mensis Maij quarto. The arms afore blazoned are over the Monument of this Counsellor to king Henry. Tho de Thakley Abbot. Abbas famosus, bonus, & vivendo probatus, In Thakley natus, qui iacet hic tumulatus: Thomas dictatus, qui Christo sit sociatus: Rite gubernavit, istumque locum peramavit. Great Easton. Orate .... Willelmi Moigne Are .... qui obiit. .... M.ccc.v. Will. Moigne. Ann 2●. Ed. 1. This William Moigne (or Monk) held this Manor of Easton ad montem (for so it was anciently called) with Winterborne and Maston in the County of Wilts, by service; of being Clerk of the King's Kitchen, and keeper of his Lardarie, tempore Coronationis. Hatfield Brad-oke. The foundation of the Priory. So called (saith Camden) of a broad spread Oak, in which Town Robert de Vere, the third Earl of Oxford, and great Chamberlain of England, founded a Priory for black Monks. About the beginning of the reign of King Henry the third, valued at the suppression at 157. l. 3. s. 2. d. ob. per annum: which Priory Aubrey de Vere (the third of that Christian name, Earl of Oxford) enfeoffed with the Tithes of this Town, and to the instrument of his donation, he affixed, by a harp string (as a label to the bottom of the parchment) a short black hafted knife, like unto an old half penny whitle, instead of a Seal. These are the words in his Grant. Per istum cultellum Albericus de Vere tertius feoffavit Prioratum et Conventum de Hatfeeld Regis, Ex Mss. in bib. Colt. alas Brodoke, cum omnibus decimis in villa predicta: Habend. etc. a festo Assumptionis beat Marie virgins in puram & perpetuam Eleemosinam, etc. Of this old manner of signing and sealing of deeds, you may read Lambard in his perambulation of Kent, pag. 318. This Robert was first entombed in the Church of his own foundation, and at the dissolution removed into the Choir of this Parish Church, where he lieth crosslegged, with this inscription now almost worn out. Sire Robert de Veer le premier, count de Oxenford le tierz git ci, Dieux del alme si luy plest face merci. Hey pur lame priera, xl iors de pardonn anera. Robert de Vere Earl of Oxford. Pater Noster. Sir Robert Vere the first, and third Earl of Oxford, lieth here. God if he please have mercy of his soul; whosoever shall pray for his soul, shall obtain forty days Pardon. He died in the year 1221. Hic iacent Thomas Barington Ar. & Anna uxor eius, Tho. Barington and Anne has wife. qui quidem Thomas obijt v. Aprilis M. cccc lxxij. & Anna obiit proximo die sequenti. Quorum animabus propitietur Altissimus. At Barington Hall (within this Parish) (saith that learned delineator of Great Britain M. Camden) dwelleth that right ancient family of the Baringtons, Camd. in Essex which in the reign of King Stephen, the Barons of Montfitchet enriched with fair possessions, since which time this house is much ennobled by the marriage of Sir Thomas Barington knight, with Winifred the daughter and coheir of Sir Henry Pole knight, Miiles Catal. Lord Montague, son of Margaret Plantagenet, Countess of Salisbury, descended of the blood royal, being the daughter of George Duke of Clarence. Great Dunmow. Exoretis miserecordiam Dei pro anima Walteri Bigod Armigeri qui obijt 17. die mens. Mar. 1397. Walter Bigod Simon de Regham iadis Parson de Dunmow gist icy, Simon Regham Dieu de son alme eit mercy. Amen. Of your cherite prey for the sowls of john jenone Esquyr, Io. jenone and Alice his wife. somtym on of the Common Pleas of Westmynstre, and Alys his wyff. Which john died xvii Septembyr, M. Vc.xlii. Little Dunmow. juga the wife of one Baynard, The foundation of the Priory of Dunmow. a Nobleman, that came in with the Conqueror; the builder of Baynard's Castle in London, founded the Priority in this village, in the beginning of the reign of Henry Beauclerke, and entreated Mauricius, Out of an abstract of the Chronicle of Dunmow, in b●b. Cott. Bishop of London, to dedicate the Church to the honour of the virgin Mary, to which, the same day, she gave half a Hide of land. Her son and heir Geffrey Baynard placed black Canons therein, by the consent of Anselm Archbishop of Canterbury. This house was valued at the suppression to be yearly worth 173. l. 2. s. 4. d. Matilda surnamed the fair. The Church of this monastery is as yet standing, in the Choir whereof, between two pillars, lieth the body of Matilda the fair entombed, who was the daughter of Robert Fitz-water, the most valiant knight of England. About the year 1213. saith the book of Dunmow, there arose a great discord betwixt king john and his Barons, because of Matilda surnamed the fair, daughter of Robert Fitz-water, whom the King unlawfully loved, but could not obtain her, nor her father's consent thereunto. Whereupon, and for other like causes, ensued war through the whole Realm. The king banished the said Fitz-water amongst other, and caused his Castle, called Baynard, and other his houses to be spoiled. Which being done, he sent a messenger unto Matilda the fair, Ex predict. lib Dunmow. Stow Annal. about his old Suit in Love, Et quia noluit consentire toxicavit eam. And because she would not agree to his wicked motion, the messenger poisoned a boiled, or potched Egg, against she was hungry, and gave it unto her, whereof she died, the year 1213. In the year following after her death, her banished father was restored to the king's favour, upon this occasion. It happened in the year 1214. king john being then in France, Stow. Annal. with a great army, that a truce was taken betwixt the two Kings of England and France, for the term of five years: and a river or arm of the Sea, being betwixt either host, there was a knight in the English host, that cried to them of the other side, willing some one of their knights, to come and just a course or two with him. Whereupon without stay Robert Fitz-water, being on the French part, made himself ready, ferried over, & got on horseback, and showed himself ready to the face of his challenger, whom at the first course, he struck so hard with his great spear, that horse and man fell to the ground; and when his Spear was broken, he went back again to the king of France. Which king john seeing, by God's tooth, quoth he, (such was his usual oath) he were a King indeed, that had such a knight. The friends of Robert hearing these his words, kneeled down, and said, O king he is your knight, it is Robert Fitz-water; Sir Rob. Fitz-water knight. whereupon the next day he was sent for, and restored to the king's favour. By which means peace was concluded, and he received his livings, and had licence to repair his Castle of Baynard, and all his other Castles. After which, this strenuous knight, this Mars of men, this Marshal of God's Army and holy Church (for so he was enstiled, by the common multitude) lived in all affluence of riches and honour, the space of sixteen years; deceased in the year 1234. and lieth here entombed by his daughter. Thus saith the book, Extract. lib. Dunmow. in saepe dict. bib. Cott. Ann. 1234. Obijt nobilis vir Robertus filius Walteri Patronus Ecclesie Dunmow, qui tumulatur iuxta maius Altare in suo Monasterio, & succedit Walterus filius eius in heriditatem. Walter of Clare or Walter Fitz-Robert. In the midst of the Choir, under a goodly marble stone, lieth the body of Walter, the father of the foresaid Robert Fitz-water, and son of Robert, the son of Richard, who was the son of Gilbert of Clare. This Walter took to wife Maud de Bocham, and after her decea●e, Matilda or Maud, the daughter and coheir of Richard de Lucy, on whom he begat Robert the valiant, before remembered; he died in the year ●●●8. as I have it in my old Author, Anno vero Domini M. c.lxxxxviii. obiit Walterus filius Roberti Patroni Ecclesie de Dunmow, qui iacet intumulatus in medio cho●i Ecclesie sue, et succedit Robertus filius Walteri miles stren●●s. Now will it please you hear a little further of this noble family, and of their devotions to this Priory, out of an old Gartularie, sans date in my cu●stody. Robertus filius Richardi et Mathilda uxor eius Episcopo London et omnibus hominibus, et Amicis suis et cunctis Ecclesie fidelibus salutem. Scialis quia concedimus et canonice hac carta confirmavimus, Quod Ecclesia sancte Marie de Donmowe, et fratres ibidem Deo seruientes teneant ita quiet el pacifice, et libere omnes illas Elemosinas quas tenuerunt die qua Rex Henricus mihi Roberto filio Richardi terram dedit. Sicut unquam quiecius et ho●norificentius et liberius tenuerunt, scilicet in terris, in hominibus, in pratis, in bosco, et plano, et in omni Decima nostra et omnium hominum nostrorum eiusdem ville, & in decima Prati et Pannagij nostri et in decima molendinorum nostrorum, et in omni pastura eiusdem Ville: Preteria sci●tis quia concedimus et confirmamus quod predicta Ecclesia et fratres eiusdem Ecclesie teneant incrementa que nos eidem Ecclesie concessimus et dedimus. Scilicet duas partes decime Dominij nostri de Henham; duas partes decime Dominij nostri de Northon; duas partes decime Dominij nostri de Styston, et decimam de Passfeld. Et decimam de terra que fuit Ernaldi le Blache in Beruston; Et decimam de Pachesham; et Essertum de Leffwyfewode, Et Essertum de Acho, et turbariam de Esteye. Hanc donationem predicte Ecclesie donavimus et confirmavimus pro dei dilectione, et sancte genetricis Marie, et pro fidelibus defunctis. Robertus erat noster primus Fundator et erat silius Richardi et est sepultus in monasterio, Extract lib. de D●● perd●ct. S. Neoti. Walterus erat silius eius et est sepulius apud nos in tumba marmorea in medio chori. Robertus filius Walteri predicti de est tumulatus ante summum Altar. Anno Dom. 1501. decimo die mens. Augusti campane in Campanile. The 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉 Dunmowe now cast and christened Ecclesie beat Marie de Dunmow noviter facte et baptisate fuere. Prima in honore sancti Michaelis Archangeli. Secunda in honore. S. johannis Euangeliste. Tertia in honore S. johannis baptist. Quarta in honore Assumptionis beat Marie. Quinta in honore sancte trinitatis, et omnium Sanctorum. In the Choir of the Church, Io Blakemore Prior. under a goodly fair monument, the body of john Blakemore, Prior of this dissolved house of Dunmow, as I find it in an abstract of the Chronicle of this monastery, lieth interred; for whom this Epitaph following was composed. Subtus hic, hoc tumulo recubat Prior ecce johannes De Blakemor dictus vir probus, atque pius. Peruigil implebat quod lex divina iubebat, Eius consilium que fuit et studium. Debilibus, dubijs, cecis, claudis, peregrinis, Tectum, pes, oculi, consilium, baculu●, Vespere et absconso Machuti sole Novembris Quindecimo hic moritur, vivere ut incipiat. Ergo preces cineri dones quicumque viator, Ista preces tantum flebilis urna petit. His death happened in the year of our saving health, one thousand five hundred and eighteen, as by the humble petition of the Subprior and his brethren to their Patron Sir Robert Radcliffe Knight, Radcliffe Patron of the Priory of little Dunmow. Lord Fitz-water (afterwards Earl of Sussex) for the speedy election of another Prior may appear, the form whereof, transcribed out of the original, I thought good here to insert, being a precedent not commonly known in these days. Egregio et prenobili viro Domino Roberto Radclif militi, Domino Fitz-water; vestri humiles et devoti silij Galfridus Shether Supprior et presidens Domus sive Prioratus beat Marie Virgins de Dunmowe ordinis sancti Augustini London Dioc. vestre fundationis et patronatus; et eiusdem loci conventus, omnimod. Reverencias cum honore, orationumque suffragia, et quicquid dulcius de latere Crucifixi hauriri poterit: vestre reverencie innotescimus et certificamus per presents: Quod bone memorie Dominus johannes Blakemore noster iamdudum et dicte domus nostre Prior, quinto decimo die instantis mensis Novembris viam est vniuerse carnis ingressus, et sequent. prox. ex tunc die ipsius corpus Ecclesiastice traditum est sepulturex; Sicque sumus et est dicta domus sive prioratus Prioris et pas●oris solatio et regimine destitut. Ne igitur ex diurna eiusdem vacatione gravia nobis proveniant incommoda; vestre reverencie humiliter et deuote supplicamus; quatinus cum sitis noster et dicte Domus sive prioratus fundator, et patronus ut prefertur, vestram ut moris est ad novi seu futuri prioris & pastoris electionem procedend. ac iuxta canonicas sanctiones dei presidio celebrand. patronalem licenciam nobis concedere dignemini cum favore. Prosperitatemque vestram conseruet Altissimus per tempora longiora. Dat. in domo nostra Capitulari, nostro sub sigillo xvij. die predicti mens. novemb. Anno Domini millesimo quingentesimo decimo nono. Newton Hall In the hall of the Manor house of Newton Hall, in this Parish, remaineth in old painting, two postures, th'one for an Ancestor of the Bourchiers' combatant with another, being a pagan king, for the truth of Christ, whom the said Englishman overcame, and in memory thereof, his descendants have ever since borne the head of the said Infidel, as also used the surname of Bowser, as I had it out of the collections of Augustine Vincent, Windsor Herald, deceased. Boreham. The inheritance and honours of this famous, and right noble race of the Fitzwater, came at length by marriage into the stock of the Radcliffes, for (in the pedigree of Sir Alexander Radcliffe of Ordsall in the county of Lancaster, knight of the Bath; descended, as the Earl of Sussex is, from the Radcliffes, anciently of Radcliffe in the said County; the son of that valiant and generally beloved Gentleman, Sir john Radcliffe, Lieutenant Colonel, slain, fight against the French, in the Isle of Rhee, the 29. day of October, in the year of our Lord, one thousand six hundred, twenty and seven) I find that Sir john Radcliffe Knight, (son of Sir john Radcliffe knight, who married Katherine, the daughter and heir of Edward Lord Burnell of Acton Burnell in the county of Salop) married Elizabeth, the daughter and heir of Walter, Lord Fitz-water, of Woodham, a Baron of great riches, as of ancient nobility, the father of john, who was Father of Robert Radcliffe, the first of that surname, Earl of Sussex, Viscount Fitz-water, Lord Egremont and Burnell, who with other two Earls, his Son and Grandchild, lie here interred under a sumptuous monument, as appeareth by their several inscriptions and lively portraitures. To the memory of the first Earl (for I am tied by my method only to his at this time) these funeral lines following are engraven. Robertus Radcliffe miles Dominus Fitz-water, Ro. Radcliffe Earl of Sussex Egremond et Burnel, Vicecomes Fitz-water (magnus Camerarius, Anglie) Camerarius Hospitij Regis Henrici octavi, ac eidem a consilijs Prelijs in Gallia commissis aliquoties inter primos ductores honoratus, in aliis belii pacisque consultationibus non inter postremos habitus, aequitatis, Institiae, constantiae, magnum aetatis suae columen, obijt xxvii. die novemb. Anno Dom. M. ccccc.xlii. aetat. This Earl had three wives, whose portraitures are cut here upon the Tomb, by all of which he had issue. By his first wife Elizabeth, who was the daughter of Henry Stafford Duke of Buckingham; he had Henry, after him Earl of Sussex, here entombed; George Radcliffe, and Sir Humphrey Ratcliff of Elnestow. By Margaret his second wife, daughter of Thomas Lord Stanley, Earl of Derby, he had Anne, married to Thomas Lord Wharton, who lieth here buried by her father, and jane married to Sir Antony Browne, Knight, Viscount Montague. By his third wife, the daughter of Sir john Arundel of Lanherne in Cornwall, Knight; he had issue, Sir john Radcliffe, Knight, who died without issue, in the year 1566. and lieth buried in Saint Olaves Hart-streete, London. Henry Radcliffe, Earl of Sussex, son of this Robert as aforesaid, was one of the privy Council to Queen Mary, as I find it in her Grant of liberty made unto him for the wearing of Coifs or Caps in her presence, which I copied out of the Original amongst the Evidences of Robert late Earl of Sussex deceased; expressed in these words following. Marry the Queen. Marry, She took the title of Supremacy upon her in the beginning of her reign, which she relinquished before her death. by the grace of God, Queen of england, France, and Irelonde, defender of the Feythe, and in Earth, of the Church of england and Irelonde supreme Hede. To all to whom this present writing shall come, sendeth greeting in our Lord everlasting. Know ye that we do give and pardon to our well-beloved and trusty Cousin, & one of our privy Counsel, Henry Earl of Sussex, Viscount Fitz-water, Lord Egremond and Burnell, liberty, licens and pardon, to were his Cap, Coyf, or night Cappe, or two of them at his pleasor, as well in our presence, as in the presence of any other person or persons within this our realm, or any other place of our dominion wheresoever during his life. And these our letters shall be his sufficient warrant in this behalf. Yeven undre our Sign Manuel, at our Palaes of Westminstre the second day of October, in the first year of our Reign. Her Seal with the Garter about it is fixed to this Grant with a label of silk, and so are the Arms of the Kings of England: and E. R. the Seal manuel of Edward the sixth, not altered. This Henry, departed this life at Sir Henry Sidneyes house in canon Row at Westminster, on wednesday morning, the 17. of February, between five and six a clock, in the third and fourth year of Philip and Mary, Anno 1556. as Vincent in his Discovery of Brooks Errors verifieth by a certificate thereof in the book of Burials in the Office of Arms, Fol. 225. He was buried first by his Father, in Saint Laurence Poultney Church in London, from whence their remains were removed hither, as you shall understand by the present sequel. That brave-spirited politicke-wise Lord, Thomas Earl of Sussex, Lord Chamberlain of the Household to Queen Elizabeth of famous memory, built, or began to build a Chapel in this Church, wherein this glorious Tomb is erected, as a place of burial for himself and his worthy progeny; and commanded by his last Will and Testament (as I was told) that the honourable remains of his Father, and Grandfather Henry, and the foresaid Robert, Earls of Sussex, should be removed from the parish Church of Saint Laurence Poultney London, where their bodies lay buried, to this his Chapbell at Boreham, wherein he desired to be entombed: all which was accordingly performed. This Tomb was made by one Richard Stephens, an outlandish man, and finished with all furniture, as gilding, colouring, and the like, thereunto belonging, the xxviii. of May, M.D. lxxxxix. the whole charge thereof amounting to the sum of cclxxxxii. l. xii. s. viii. d. as appears by the account which I have seen. This Thomas, Earl of Sussex, saith Camden, was a most worthy and honourable personage, in whose mind were seated jointly both politic wisdom, and martial prowess, as England and Ireland acknowledged; but more of him hereafter. These Earls of Sussex of this surname, from Robert the first, to Robert the last, who died An. Dom. 1629. have ever been Knights of the Garter. Tho. Coggeshall and joan his wife. Hic iacet Thomas Coggeshale Ar. filius Thome Coggeshale Armigeri & johanna uxor eius que quidem Iohanna obijt xvii. julij M.ccc.xv. Thomas obiit. ..... Newport. Tho. Browne. Her lieth Thomas Brown, Whos sowl God pardown. ......... M. ccccc.xv. Her undyr this marble stone, Lieth the body of master jon Heynes, Bachelor of Law, And somtym Vicar of this Chirch I traw. Who passed out .......... ...... M. cccc. Here sometime stood an hospital in this Town, The Hospital in Newport. by whom founded I cannot read. Valued at the fatal destruction of all such houses, at 23. l. 10. s. 8. d. per annum. Pleshy. This Collegiate Church was founded by Thomas of Woodstock, The Foundation of the College at 〈◊〉 Duke of Gloucester, for Canons regular: which was valued in the King's books to be yearly worth one hundred thirty nine pounds three shillings ten pence. The upper part of which Church, within these few years, was taken down; and as I was told in the Town, the Parishioners (being either unwilling or unable to repair the decays) carried away the materials which were employed to other uses. This part of the Church was adorned and beautified with diverse rich funeral Monuments, which were hammered a pieces, bestowed, and divided, according to the discretion of the Inhabitants. Upon one of the parts of a dismembered Monument, carelessly cast here and there in the body of the Church, I found these words. Here lieth john Holland, Io. Holland Earl of Exeter. earl of Exeter, earl of Huntingdon, and chamberlain of England. Who died ....... This john was half brother to King Richard the second, and Duke of Exeter. From which dignity he was deposed, by Act of Parliament in the first year of King Henry the fourth, whose sister he had married: and in the same year beheaded in this Town for a seditious conspiracy (saith Camden) and in the very place where the Duke of Gloucester was arrested by King Richard, Camd. in Essex. which was in the base court of the Castle of Pleshie (now quite ruined) that he might seem (saith he) to have been justly punished by way of satisfaction, for the foresaid Duke of Gloucester; of whose death he was thought to be the principal procurer. He was beheaded the third day after the Epiphanie, 1399. 1. Hen. 4. Upon a broken piece of a fair marble stone, reared to the side of a pillar, whereupon were the pictures in brass of an armed knight and his Lady, this ensuing distich was engraven. Militis o miserere tui, Sir Ed. Holland Earl of Mortaigne and his wife. miserere Parentum, Alme deus regnis gaudeat ille tuis. Under this stone (if Tradition may go for truth) Sir Edward Holland, Earl of Mortaigne, son of the foresaid john Holland, beheaded; with his Lady were entombed. Orate pro anima johannis Scot, Io. Scot the first Master of this College: primi Magistri huius Collegij, qui obijt primo die januar. M. cccc.x. Qui me psalmasti miserere mei Qui me pretioso tuo sanguine redimisti miserere mei. Qui me ad Christianitatem vocasti miserere mei. Robert Frevyt. Here lieth Robert Frevyt, a man letterd sowndyt For his sowl and for all christine, say a Pater Noster and an Ave. Tho. Plantagines Duke of Gloucester. But I shall forget the Founder Thomas of Woodstock, the sixth son of King Edward the third, and Uncle to King Richard, who was taken by force from this his Castle of Plessy, by Thomas Mowbray, Earl Martial, and conveyed to Calais, where he was smothered under a Featherbed, 1397. His body was afterwards conveyed with all funeral pomp into England, and buried here in this Church of his own foundation, Hollins. p. 489. in a goodly sepulchre provided by himself in his life time. Whose relics were afterwards removed and laid under a marble, inlaid with brass, in the King's Chapel at Westminster. In which Church Elinor his wife (of whom I have spoken before) lieth entombed, Catal. of Hon. Brooke. with this French inscription, who after the death of her husband became a Nun in the Abbey of Barking within this County. Cy gist Aleonore de Bohun aysue fille et un des heirs l'hounrable seignour Mons. Humphrey de Bohun Count de Hereford d'Essex et de Northampton et Constable d'Engleterre; Elinor Duchess of Gloucester. Femme a puissant et noble prince Tho. de Woodstock Fitz a tresexcellent et tre puissant seignour Edward Roi d'Engleterre puis le Conquest tiers. Duc de Glocestre, Count d'Essexie et de Buchingham et Constable d'Engleterre, quemorust le tierz iour a'October, ban du grace 1399. the gi' aisme Dieux face mercy, Amen, But again to return to the Duke her husband, touching whose life and death, with the manner thereof, thus writeth Gower in his book called Vox clamantis. O quam Fortuna stabilis non permanet una, Exemplum cujus stat in ordine carminis hujus Rex agit, et Cronie. tripart. in bib. Cot. The Swan the Duke of Gloc. cognisance. Cygnus patitur de Corde benignus, Ille prostratus non est de Rege levatus, Ad Plessye captus tunc est velut Hostia raptus Rex jubet arma geri, nec eo voluit misereri; Cum Sponsa nati lugent quasi morti gravati; Plusque Lupo sevit Rex dummodo Femina flevit. Nil pietas munit quem tunc manus invida punit, Rex stetit obliquus nec erat tunc unus amicus. O Regale genus, Princeps quasi pauper egenus, Turpiter attractus jacet et sine iure subactus. Sunt ibi Fautores Regis de sorte Priores Qui Cygnum pendent, ubi captum ducere tendent, Sic ducendo ducem, perdit sine lumine lucem. Anglia que tota tenebrescit luce remota; Trans mare natavit, regnum qui semper amavit; Flent centum mille quia Cygnus preterite ille, Calisij portus petit unde dolus latet ortus, Error quem Regis genuit putredine legis Carcere conclusus subito fuit ille reclusus, Nescit quo fine, sit vite, sive ruin Tunc Rex elatum sumpsit quasi Falco volatum, Vnde suas gentes perdit Custode carentes. A little after follow these verses, touching the denial of burial to be granted unto him among the rest of his honourable and royal Ancestors. Sic nece devictum, sic corpus ab hoste relictum, Clam de conclavi susceperat Anglia navi, Per mare regreditur, corpus nec adhuc sepelitur, Namque sepulturam, defendit Rex sibi puram; Desuper a latere patris loca justa tenere, Dummodo quesivit vix bassa sepulchra subivit. Of the manner of his death these three verses following. Hen quam tortorum quidam de sorte malorum, Sic Ducis electi plumarum pondere lecti, Corpus quassatum jugulant que necant jugulatum. Such was the end of this royal Prince, son to a King, and uncle to a King: who by our writers is discommended in this, that he was ever repining against the King in all things whatsoever he wished to have forward: Histor Ang. l. 20. Erat enim vir ferocissimus & precipitis ingenij (as Polidor censures him) a most fierce man, and of an headlong wit; who thinking still that those times, wherein he had mastered the King, were nothing changed, though the King was above thirty yeeares old, forbore not, roughly, not so much to admonish, as to check and school his Sovereign. Hatfield Peverell. So denominated of one Randolph Peverell the owner thereof, to whom Edward the Confessor was very munificent for that he had married his kinswoman, Camd. in Essex the daughter of Ingelrick, a man of great Nobility among the English Saxons. A Lady of that admirable beauty, that with her looks she conquered the Conqueror William, who desired nothing more than to be her prisoner in Arms, which to effect, he begins to express a kind of love to the remembrance of her deceased father Ingelrick, enriching the College of Saint martin's le grand in London, first founded by him and her uncle Edward, he honours and advanceth her two brethren, William Peverell Castellane or Keeper of Dover Castle, and pain Peverell Baron of Bourne or Brun, in Cambridgeshire, the founder of Barnwell Abbey; Standard bearer to Robert Duke of Normandy in the holy war against Infidels. He prefers her kindred and friends, he solicits her by the messengers of the Devil's Bedchamber, his sly enchanting Bawds, and comes sometimes himself like jupiter in a golden shower. Thus by these forcible demonstrations of his love, and unavoidable allurements (especially from a King) she was brought at length to his unlawful bed, unto whom she bore a son named William, who was Lord of Nottingham, the founder of Lenton Abbey. His mother (touched with remorse of conscience for her sins) to expiate her guilt (for such was the doctrine taught in those days) founded a College here in this village of Hatfield, The foundation 〈◊〉 Hatfield College. which she consecrated to the honour of God, and S. Mary Magdelen; wherein, setting apart all worldly employments, she spent the remainder of her days, and here departed her life about the year 1100. sixteen years after the death of the Conqueror. Here she lieth buried, and her image or portraiture cut in stone is to be seen at this present day in the Church window. This house was a Cell to Saint Albon, valued to be yearly worth 83. l. 19▪ s. 7. d. Harlow. ●ob. Symond. Hic iacet Robertus Symond quondam Auditor principalis Regis Henrici septimi in Ducatu suo lancaster ..... qui ob ......... Erumnarum portus meta viarum, mors. ....... john Drunkeston .......... Vulnera quinque Dei sint medicina mei. Scilicet, Pia mors & Passio Christi. Danbury. ●era●● Braybroke and his wife. Hic iacet Gerardus quondam filius & heres Gerardi Braybroke militis qui obijt xxix. Marcijs M. cccc.xxii. Icy gist perne Femme a Gerard Braybroke, fille a Monsieur Reynold de Grey Seignour de wilton, que morust viii. jour d'aueril, l'an de grace M. cccc.xiiii. a qua Dieu fait mercy. I shall have occasion to speak of the Braibrokes, when I come to Braibroke in Northamptonshire, of which they were Lords. Here lie two men armed in their portraitures, and cross legged, which were (as it goes by relation from father to the son) of the family of the Darcies, Darcies'. who for a time had here their habitation. Although it be somewhat from my purpose, yet I hold it not much amiss to ammuse my Reader with a short story. Hollins. 〈…〉 Annal The Devil of Danbury. Upon Corpus Christi day, in the year 1402. the third of Henry the fourth, at Evensong time, the Devil entered into this Church, in the likeness of a Grey Friar, and raged horribly, playing his parts like a Devil indeed, to the great astonishment and fear of the parishioners: and the same hour with a tempest of whirlwind and thunder, the top of the Steeple was broken down, and half of the Chancel scattered abroad. Great Baddow. Ro. Tendering. Hic iacet Robertus Tendering nuper Firmarius Manerij de magna Baddow qui obijt xx Octob M. ccccc.xxxvii. Anno Hen. viii xxix. This prayer following is inlaid in brass upon the marble. ✚ Omnipotens & misericors Deus, i● cujus potestate humana conditio consistit: animam famuli tui Roberti, queso ab omnibus absolve peccatis; ut penitentie fructum quem voluntas ejus optabit, preventus morte non perdat. Per Dominum nostrum jesum Christum. Amen. Hic tumulantur Thomas Kill, & Margeria uxor ejus, Tho. ●ille and Marg●ry his wife. qui quidem Thomas erat Pincerna quondam cum illustri Principe Tho. Woodsloke, Duc● dudum Glocestrie; deinde cum nobilissima Domina Comitissa Hereford, & postea cum Christianissmo Principe, & invictissimo Henrico quinto, ultimo cum honore dignissimo Katherina Regina & ejusdem Domini Regis consort: nove Cantarie Sancte Trinitatis in Capella istius Ecclesie Fundator; qui quidem Thomas plenus annorum obijt xvii. Decemb. M. cccc.xlix. & dicta Margeria penultimo die Februarij M. cccc.lxi.ex hac luce migravit. Principibus placuisse viris non ultima laus est. Orate .......... Badewe ........ Ed. 3. I read that one Edmund Badewe did hold certain Tenements in this Town by Sergeantie: Abstract ●e●. in Scaccar. viz. to keep and convey one of the Kings Palfreyes' for the space of twenty days at the King's charges when he shall happen to come into these parts. Anno 5. Ed. 3. Chensford. Orate pro animabus johannis Biglon nuper Carnificis istius ville, john Biglon Butcher, and Florance his wife. & Florentie uxoris eius, qui quidem Iohannes obiit ..... die .... An. Dom. 1500. et dicta Florencia obijt 1. Novemb: 1509. Quorum animabus. This marble Monument is fair inlaid with brass, besitting the corpse of a more eminent man then a Butcher. From a label of brass these words seem to proceed out of his mouth: ostend mihi Domine miserecordiam tuam. From hers these: Et salutare tuum da nobis. This Church was re-edified about some hundred thirty and seven years since, as appeareth by a broken inscription on the out side of the South wall. Prey for the good estate of the Townshyp of Chelmsford that hath been willying and prompt of helpies, to .... this Chirch, and for all them that be ..... M. cccc.lxxxix. Here stood a small religious house, built by Malcolm king of Scots, for Friar's Preachers: valued at 9 l. 6. s. 5. d. per annum. Engerston. Hic iacet johannes Rocheford Ar. filius Domini Radulphi Rocheford militis, Io. Rochfort. qui obiit decimo die novemb. 1444. et anno Regis Henrici sexti, 24. Of this surname I have spoken before in Rocheford. Hic iacet Gertrudis filia johannis Terrel de Warley equitis aurati, Gertrude Lady Petre. & coniux prenobilis viri Gulielmi Petri Equitis aurati, quae obiit 28. Maii. 1541. Her said Husband that grave Counsellor, and Secretary of State to king Henry the eight, Edward, Queen Mary, and Elizabeth; lieth likewise here interred. Who lived some thirty six years after the death of this Gertrude his first wife, even to these later times; whose Epitaph (according to my method) I reserve for another part of these my funeral Monuments. Under the picture of Christ in one of the windows are these two words, Petra nostra. Waltham Abbey. This Abbey was founded by a King of England, who of all other reigned least and lost most. The foundation of Waltham Abbey. For within the compass of a year, he lost both his life and his kingdom, at one cast, and both of them to a Stranger; I mean Harold the second, the son of Earl Godwin. Who having built and sufficiently endowed this his Foundation, for a Dean, and eleven secular black Canons, he caused it to be consecrated, to the honour of a certain holy Cross, Waltham Crosse. found far Westward, and brought hither by miracle. King Henry the second new builded this Monastery, and placed therein Regular Canons; augmenting their number to four and twenty, and also their revenues. Richard Cordelion his son confirms the gift and exchange of the Canons made by his father, by his Charter to be read in the Tower, in these words. Richardus Dei gratia, etc. Ind est, quod sicut Pater noster mutationem Canonicorum secularium, Cart. Ant. Litur. R.R. & institutionem Canonicorum regularium fecit in Ecclesia de Waltham, & eye quasdam non as possessiones, et veteres concessit, & confirmavit: Sic nos laudabiliter virorum commutationem in prefata Ecclesia factam, nostra autem approbamus. Et pro salute predicti Patris nostri, et Matris nostre, et Fratrum nostrorum, et pro salute omnium fidelium, constitutionem Canonicorum Regularium in eadem Ecclesia factam, & donationes, & possessiones novas, que a Patre nostro eye facte sunt presenti carta nostra confirmamus. Dat. etc. Henry the third increased much their revenues with Fairs and Markets; a Fair here for seven days; and at Epping a Market every Monday, and a Fair for three days. So by the munificence of these Kings, their Successors, and Subjects, this Abbey at the general survey, and surrender, was valued (at Robin Hoods pennieworths) to dispend yearly 900. pounds four shillings and four pence. Stow Annal. speed. The Catalogue of religious houses saith, 1079. l. 12. s. and a penny. The death of king Harold. The Church of this Monastery hath escaped the hammers of destruction, and with a venerable aspect, showeth unto us the magnitude of the rest of this religious Structure. Herein Harold made his vows, and prayers, for victory when he marched against the Norman Conqueror. In which battle by the shot of an arrow through the left eye into his brains, he was slain the 14. of October, being Saturday, 1066. having reigned nine months and odd days: whose body by the mediation of his mother Githa, and two religious men of this Abbey, being obtained of the Conqueror (howsoever at the first by him denied, affirming that burial was not fit for him, whose ambition had been the cause of so many funerals) was conveyed (with great lamentation) by his said mother Githa, The burial of King Harold. and a small dejected remainder of the English Nobility, to this his own Church, and herein solemnly interred, upon whose Monument this Epitaph was engraven. Heu cadis hosle sero, Rex, a Deuce Rege sutaro Par paris gladio, milite & valido. Firmini iusti lux est tibi, luce Calixti; Pronior hinc superas, hinc superatus eras. Ergo tibi requiem deposcat utrumque perennem: Sicque precetur eum, quod colit omne Deum. A fierce foe thee slew, thou a King, he king in view, Both Peers, both Peerless, both feared, and both fearless; That sad day was mixed, by Firmin and Calixt. Th'one helped thee to vanquish, t'other made thee languish, Both now for thee pray, and thy Requiem say; So let good men all, to God for the call. Girth and Leofwin his two brethren lost their lives likewise under Harold's Banner (which was brondet (saith Robert of Gloucester) with sygur of a man fighting biset all about with gold and preciosse stones, Girth and Leo●win King Harold's brethren. which Banner aftur the battle Duc William sent to the Pope in tokne of the victory.) Whose bodies were in like manner brought to this Church, and here entombed. It is said that Girthe, not holding it best to hazard the Kingdom of England at one cast, Camd Remains. signified to the King, that the success of war was doubtful, that victory was rather swayed by fortune then by valour, that advised delay was most important in martial affairs; Sir Io. Hayward in vita Will. 1. and if so be brother (said he) you have plighted your faith to the Duke, retire yourself, for no force can serve against a man's own conscience; God will revenge the violation of an oath: you may reserve yourself to give them a new encounter, which will be more to their terror. As for me, if you will commit the charge to me, I will perform both the part of a kind brother, and a courageous Leader. For being clear in conscience, I shall sell my life, or discomfit your enemy with more felicity. But the King not liking his speech, answered, I will never turn my back, with dishonour, to the Norman, neither can I in any sort digest the reproach of a base mind: well then be it so (said some discontented of the company) let him bear the brunt that hath given the occasion. This Harold is much commended for his courteous affability, The Charter of K. Harold. gentle deportment, justice, and warlike prowess, in nothing blame worthy, save that in the opinion of his own valour, he addicted himself wholly to his own resolutions, neglecting the wise deliberations of his best friends and Councillors. And that his courage could never stoop to be lower than a King. For which he is taxed to be an impious man, falsely aspiring to the Crown by usurpation. Of which my old Author, with whom I will conclude, hath these rhymes. Harold the falls earl, though Sent Edward ded ley Rob. Glocest. Him selue let corone King, thulk self day Falsliche. Richard the first, king of England, for his matchless valour surnamed Cordelion, or Lions-heart, is, by some of our old English writers, said to have slain a Lion, and by the pulling out of his heart, to have gained that attribute or denomination; Hugh Nevil chief Forester of England. Mat 〈◊〉 ad an 12●0. the truth is, that Hugh Nevil a gentleman of noble lineage, one of King Richard's special familiars, is recorded to have slain a Lion in the holy Land, driving first an arrow into his breast, and then running him thorough with his sword, whereupon this Hexameter was made. Viribus Hugonis vires periere Leonis. The strength of Hugh a Lion slew. Which atchivement belike was transferred from the man to the master, and the story applied to the byname of K. Richard. 〈◊〉 eodem an. 〈…〉 This Hugh was high justice, Guardian, or Prothoforester of England. He died about the sixth of King Henry the third, being full of years, & corpus eius, saith Paris, in Ecclesia de Waltam nobili Sarchophago marmoreo et in sculpto traditur sepulturae; and his body was buried in this Church of Waltham under a noble engraven marble Sepulchre. Paris ad an. 1145. john Nevil his son (non ultimus inter Angliae nobiles patris sui pedetentim sequens vestigia) and the son and heir as well of his virtues as revenues and offices, john Nevil. being accused by one Robert Passelew, (a man of eminent authority under King Henry the third) of diverse transgressions, or omissions in the Forest Laws, committed by him, by his connivency, or sufferance, in this Forest of Waltham, and other the King's Forests, Parks, and Chases, was adjudged to pay a Fine of two thousand marks, and ignominiously to be cast out of his offices, which he took so to heart, that (not long after languishing away with sorrow) he breathed out his afflicted spirit in july 1245. at his Manor of Whelperfield, from whence he was conveyed to this Abbey, and here honourably entombed by his father. I find, in Registro Cartarum Abbatie de Waltam, that these two Nevils were great benefactors to this Monastery, to which Hugh Nevil aforesaid, gave by his deed the Manor of Thorndon, in these words, Omnibus ad quos, etc. Hugo de Nevil, salutem. Noveritis quod ego pro salute anime me, In bib Col. et johanne uxoris me, per consensum & bonam voluntatem Iohannis filij mei et heredis concessi Ecclesie de Waltham in liberam Ele●mosinam totum manerium meum de Thorndon, etc. Robert Passelew Robert Passelew before remembered, was here likewise interred, who was one of the King's instruments for gathering up money, in which his office be used such rigour, as multitudes of people were utterly undone; so unsafe are private men's estates, where Princes fall into great wants. He was Archdeacon of jews, Dannil. in vil. Hen 3. and for his good service in this business (Kings have ever such servants to express their pleasures in what course soever they take) he should have been preferred to the Bishopric of Chichester; but the Bishops withstanding the King therein, his election was disanuld in the year 1234. being (with other) called to a strict account for the King's Treasure ill spent, Paris. or worse employed, he was constrained to take Sanctuary, and seek odd corners for his safety; yet afterwards (an argument of the King's lenity) he was received into grace and favour: at the length leaving the troubles which attend the Court, he lived privately at his parsonage of Derham in Norfolk, but died at his house here in Waltham upon the sixth day of june, in the year 1252. of whom will it please you hear Matthew Paris speak in his own language. Archidiaconus Lewensis, Paris eod an. Robertus Passeleve, eodem quoque anno, octavo Idus junij obijt apud Waltham, de quo multa praescribuntur. Hic Robertus Clericus et praelatus, non est veritus Regi adhaerendo multos multiformiter depauperare, ut Regem impinguaret. Opera autem sua sequuntur eum. In the Sunshine of his fortune he was flattered (as all King's Favourites are) by this allusion to his name Pass-le-eau as surpassing the pure water, Remains pa. 16. the most excellent element of all, if you believe Pindar. whereupon these verses were written not the worst in that age, if you pardon a little impropriety. Out of the collections of Camden, Mss. in Bib. Cot. Robertus transgressor aquae, nec enim quia transit, Sed precellit aquam, cognomine credo notari. Est aqua lenis, & est aqua dulcis, et est aqua clara, Mulcens, albiciens, emundans omnia, lenis Languenti, dulcis gustanti, clara videnti; Tu praecellis aquam, nam leni lenior es tu, Dulci dulcior es tu, clara clarior estu, Mente quidem lenis, re dulcis, sanguine clarus: In tribus his excellis aquam, nam murmure lenis Est aqua, tu ment, gustu dulciflua, tu re, Limpiditate nitens tu sanguine: quodlibet horum Est magis intensum procul in te quam sit in ipsa. Here lieth jon and jone Cressy, On whose souls jesus have mercy. Amen. Of your cherite for us and all Christian souls, Say a Pater Noster and an Aue. On live when we were God sent us spase, john and joan Cressy. To yink on him and of his great graze, For as we be both body and fase, So both mor and less must be in like case. In piteous array as now you see, It is no nay, so sal ye be. Yourself make mon, or ye been gone, and prey for us, Without deley, past is the day, we may not pray for you; it's thus. Whilst yat you mey, both night and day, look yat you prey jesus of graze, When ye been gone, help is there non, wherefore yink on; Whylye have spase. Sir Edward Denny knight and joan his wife. Here stands a fair monument to the memory of Sir Edward Denny, (son of the right honourable Sir Antony Denny, Counsellor of Estate and one of the executors of King Henry the eight) and of joan Champernoun his wife; of whom more hereafter. This Monastery is now one of the mansion houses of that honourable Lord, Sir Edward Denny Knight, Baron Denny of Waltham, and Earl of Norwich. I found since I writ the premises, that Edward the Confessor was the prime cause of this religious foundation, for that he gave to Harold certain Lands here conditionally that he should thereupon build a Monastery, and furnish it with all necessaries, as appears by his Charter of that donation amongst the Records in the Tower. Cart. Antiq. li●. M. Ego Edwardus Dei dono Anglorum Rex, etc. Haraldo Comiti meo quandam terram antiquitus ab incolis istius loci Waltham nuncupatam, cum omnibus ad se pertinentijs ●ampis, pratis, sylvis, aquis, etc. sub conditione quod in prescripto loco Monasterium edificet, in memoriam mei et conjugis me Eadithe. Et insuper ornet diversis Sanctorum martyrum et reliquijs et libris, Anglicisque vestibus et aliis ornamentis congruentibus: Ibique * A little Covent of Friar's subject to the Canons and their Rules. Catervulam quorundam Fratrum Canonice Regule subjectam constituet. Plurimeque terre ut donentur in Monasterij illius extruendi usum, et alimentum, ipsius etiam Haraldi cure et fidei commisi, etc. Here he names the lands in particular, which are many. Et hec omnia (saith he) ad diluenda mea et Antecessorum meorum peccata collata sunt. Quod si quis meorum successorum aliquam partem illius terre subtrahat, vel subtrahi proinde requisitus emendare noluerit. Ei Dominus justus judex Regnum pariter ac Coronam auferat, etc. Preterea volo et promitto, quod omnia in Monasterij illius opem data vel danda sint semper libera, et a Sheriffs, et a hundredis, et extra Curiam sancte Crucis omnibus placitis Geldis, etc. Scriptum est autem istud privilegium Ann. Dominice incarnationis M.lxii. Indictionibus terquinis, Epactis Septembris concurrentibus. Hijs testibus, Ego Edwardus Anglorum Basileus, confirmo et corrobero. Ego Editha divini numine Christi Regina hec eadem confirmando testimonium do. Ego Stigandus Archiepiscopus Dorobernens. eadem affirmo. Ego Ealdredus Ebor. Archiepiscopus hec consollido: cum multis aliis Episcopis et Abbatibus. Horne-Church. Named in times past (saith M. Camden) Cornutum Monasterium, the Horned Minster, for that there shoot out at the end of the Church certain points of Lead fashioned like hotness. To the brethren de monte jovis, or Mountioy; Priory de cornuto. Stow Survey. or Priory de cornuto by Havering at the Bower (saith Stow) the house of Savoy in the Strand did sometime belong, which Eleanor wife to King Henry the third, purchased of the said Fraternity or Brotherhood, for her son Edmond Earl of Lancaster. The inhabitants of this parish say (by tradition) that this Church was built by a female convertite, to expiate and make satisfaction for her former sins; and that it was called Hore-Church at the first, Hore-Church. until by a certain King, but by what King they are uncertain, which came riding that way, it was called, The Horned-Church, who caused those Horns to be put out at the East end of the same, in remembrance of so remarkable a Foundation. But to leave these conjectures and return to the Gravestones which I find thus inscribed. Hic iacet Henricus filius Domini Richardi Arundel militis, Hen. Arundel qui obiit ..... 1412 anno etatis primo. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. I will borrow an Epitaph for this Infant which I read in Rome in the Church, bearing the title of S. Maria in Aracaeli. Blandidulus nitidus, dulcissimas, unicus Infans Matris delitia delitiaeque patris. Hic tegitur raptus teneris Henricus in annis Vt Rosa quae subitis imbribus icta cadit. Of your charity a Pater Noster and an Ave for the sowl of William Ailiff gentleman owner of the Mannowr of Bret-Howse who died 1517. Will. Ailiffe. Here lieth julian Roche wife of Sir William Roche Alderman of London, julian Lady Roche. who died .... 1526. and Elisabeth Roche wife to Sir john Roche, son of William, and daughter of Sir William Forman knight and Alderman. ..... Sir William Roche, here mentioned, the son of john Roche of Wixley in Yorkshire, Survey. was Lord Mayor of London, in the year 1540 In which year (saith Stow) the Bible was openly read in English. Here lieth Katherine, Katherine Fermor. the daughter of Sir William Powlet knight, wife of William Fermor, Clarke of the Crown. Who died 26 May the second of Henry the eight. Orate pro anima Tho. Seargile Armig. ... 1475. et pro anima Elisabethe uxoris eius. Tho. Seargill & Elis. his wife Romford. In the East window of the South Isle of this Church, I find these words under the pictures of Edward the Confessor, and two pilgrims, johannes per peregrinos misit Regi Edwardo. ... the rest broken out with the glass. Upon which words hangs an old Tale; that at Havering, hereunto adjoining, certain Pilgrims came to King Edward the Confessor from jerusalem, and gave him a ring; which ring he had secretly before given to a poor man that asked his charity in the name of God, and Saint john the Evanglist: and that these Pilgrims gave the said Edward notice of his own death, according to these old rhymes. saint Edward wist of his death ex he hens wend Rob. Glocest. For saint john the Euangeliste tokne to him send As men may in his Legend see else war And than to * poor. pour he dealt his good, and made himself * ready for God. yare. This Story is likewise wrought in the Hangings in the Choir of Westminster Abbey, explained by these verses following under the portraitures of Saint john Evangelist and king Edward. Vilibus in pannis mendicat ymago johannis, Rex dat ei munus, Donum fuit annulus unus. Annulus iste datus, mittente johanne, relatus Regi scire moram, vite dat mortis et horam. But enough of this, and more perhaps then will be believed. Now to the Funeral Monuments. avery Cornburgh, Beatrice his wife, and Doctor Crowland. The mortal corpses buried here behold, Of Avery Cornburgh and Beatrice his wyff, Sqwire for the body in worship manifold, With Henry and Edward kings in this life; And undertreasurer with king Henry the seventh full blyff. Till death him raft the world as you may see, And of Master john Crowland Doctor of Divinity. Within this Church to sing perpetual, They stablish a Doctor, or Bachelor of Divinity, Or a Master of Art, for need continual, Ten pound for his Salerie and chamber fee, And three pound more, there as you may see: Yerlie xxs. the livelihood to repair, For every year an Obits, the residue is far. Of Priests xii, and Clerks vi, alsoo, Six pens the Priest, and fowr pens every Clerk, For breed, cheese, and Ale in money there must go: To poor folk xl.d. fulfilling this work: The Bailiff and Wardens of this Church must herk: To levy the lyvelode, dispose, and employ; And each of them yearly for their labour shall xl.d. enjoy: Moreover this call to your remembrance anon, That in the beadroll of usage every Sunday red; The sowls of this Avery, Beatrice, and john, Be prayed for in special; see that our will be sped, And that the Curate of this Church courteously be led And for his labour have in reading of that Roll Forty pens to prey for them and every Christian sowl. The chantry Priest in this Church shall bind him preaching, And in other when he is disposed Soul health to avans: Namely at South Okendon, Hornchurch, Dagenham, and Barking; At every of them twice a year, or moo to Goddys' pleasans, And at two times several this is sufficians. Forty days in the year he shall have to disport, If his disposition require such comfort. The Bailiff and Wardens of the same town; This chantre Priest shall purvey and proved, Within six weeks by their own election, But after such seyson if it shall betid, To stand longer vacant, they shall it not his, The Bishop of London, and the Archdekon, As is our will for that on tim shall have their election. But after six weeks a month of vacation, Not elet by them twein, deprivyth ther liberte. For than shall the King ha gift and nomination, Namely for that on tym; we will that so it be. A chest in the Church with evidenses see, Concerning the livelihood with Indenture tripartite; remaining with the Bishop, and Herres of avery: The third with the Wardens trowth to Annuity. Now jesus for thy bitter passion, Reward the sowls with everlasting bliss Of them, which caused this Foundation; And of thy mercy let them never mis. And Virgin Mary show thy grace in this, Eternally, that they may live with the, Amen, Amen, Amen, for cherite. It seemeth that this Tomb was made by himself in his life time, and that he trusted to his Executors to set down the year and day of his departure, his wives, and Doctor Crowlands. For the verge of the monument is thus inscribed, making one date for all: ...... year of our Lord 1480 .... and Beatrice his wife which deceased the— day of— the year of our Lord God 1480— and of Master john Crowland. .... who deceased the day— of the year of our Lord God, 1480. on whose souls jesus have mercy. Upon the same monument this Epitaph following is inlaid with brass. Her lieth Elisabyth Hannys, Elis. Hannys. sister to Master avery Cornburgh Sqwire Farewell my friends, the Tide abideth no man; I am departed fro hens, and so shall ye, But in my pasage the best song I can, Is Requiem eternam: now jesus grant it me, When I have ended all my aversite; Grant me in Paradys to have a mansion, That shed thy blood for my redemption. Isto sub lapide ...... Christ● Taleworth: Taleworth. .... qui migravid ad dominum. .... I know not what to make of this broken Inscription, Ab. Rel. in Scac. only I find that one Nicholas Taleworth held a Tenement in Havering (hereby) by Seargeantie, to give the King a pair of Hare-skin gloves every Christmas day, pat. 31. Ed. 3. Most glorious Trinity on God and persons three Rich. Ballard and Margery his wife. Have mercy on the souls of Richard Ballard, and his wife Margery, Whos bodies her before you lyn closed in clay. Every man and woman of your charity do you prey: That to the bliss of heaven sweet jesus do their souls bring, Unto the plas celestial before our heavenly King. Richard deseysed the iiii. of August, M. ccccc.xxvii. and Margery— M. ccccc ...— 〈…〉. his wife. Her undyr this stone lies Piers jon, And Elisabyth his wyff, lieth him hard by. On whose souls jesus have mercy, Beseech you for cherite, Say a Pater Noster and an Aue. The which deceased the on and twentyth of Septembre, In the yer of our Lord God, on thousand four hundred seventy and three. 〈…〉 wife. Her lie john Outred, and jone his wyff, Who lived long togeddyr withoutyn stryff. john left this world, and passed to heaven On thousand five hundryd year and eleven: This Church is beautified with a sumptuous funeral Monument, wherein diverse of the family of the Cooks lie entombed: whose habitation was at Giddy-Hall hereunto adjoining, which house was built for the most part by Sir Thomas Cook Lord Mayor of London, and knight of the Bath, at the Coronation of Elizabeth, wife to King Edward the fourth: upon the Frontispiece of which, these verses were engraven of later times. 〈…〉- Hall Aedibus his frontem Proauns Thomas dedit olim Addidit Antoni caetera sera manus, 1568. Aedes quisque suas; Domini sed maenia pauci Aedisicant; levior cura minora decet. Vpmenster. This town of Vpmenster or Vpminster, as it is diversely written, lying three miles from Rumpford, requireth some large remembrance from me, in respect that it hath enjoyed within little more than the space of three hundred years, diverse eminent families, who have been Lords of the same, or at least of the Manor of Gains, called also the Manor of Vpmenster, lying within the same; to which manor, as long tradition hath left to posterity, there is a little Isle or Chapel, standing on the north side of the Chancel of the same Church, belonging, and time out of mind, appendent to the Manor of Gains aforesaid, and appropriated to the Lords of the same for their particular place of burial for themselves and their issue. The first family (of whose posterity I can dilate) which I find to have been Lords of the said manor of Gains, alias Vpmenster, was that most ancient surname of Engaine (whether thence drawn or no, I leave to others to conjecture) and it is warranted by a long tradition that Sir john Engain Knight, the son of Vitalis Engayn being * Ex Autographo eiusdem carry that an. 2 E● 1. penes Radulphum Lathum A●m●g dominum Mancrie eiusdem. Lord of the said manor, did build the before mentioned Chapel, which since hath received its denomination from the blessed Virgin. This family ended in the male line, when Sir Thomas Engayne Knight, son of john Engayne Esquire, and grandchild to the former Sir john, left his three daughters, his coheirs, of whom jocosa the eldest was wife of john de Goldington. Elizabeth the second, was married to Sir Laurence de Pakenham knight: & Mary the third daughter & coheir, * Escaetr. de. a. 41. E. 3. was wife of Sir William de Barnake knight. There is no Tomb or grave-stone left of this family, but only their Coatarmour in the East window of the aforesaid Chapel. This Manor of Gains, alias Vpmenster, was afterwards severally in the possession of Simon de Havering ( * Ex Autographo eiusdem cartae dat. 10. julij, a. 15. E. 1. penes R. L. praedictum. who I conceive was but the Feoff in trust of Sir john the son and heir of john Engayne) of Alice de perrer's, * Rot Pat. de a. 3. R. 2. parte 3. afterwards attainted by Act of Parliament in a. 1. R. 2. and of Henry de la Field, whose further mention leaving the first two in silence, serveth only to this present Narration. The said Henry de la Field did by his Deed indented, a. 9 H 4. entail the said manor upon Richard, * Penes Rad. Lath, predict. Walter, and john his sons, each after other upon the default of issue; and lastly, upon john Deincourt and Elizabeth his wife, the daughter of the said Henry de la Field, in whose right afterwards it should seem he came to be Lord thereof; and there lieth buried together, with his wife, under a fair Tomb, placed just under the Arch which divideth the said north Chapel or Isle from the Chancel of Vpmenster Church. Es testis Christe quod non iacet hic lapis iste Corpus ut ornetur sed spiritus ut memoretur. And about the tomb, though somewhat mutilated is written this Epitaph. Sancte deus sancte fortis sancte miserecors saluator miserere: Animabus Rogeri Dencourt Armigeri & Elizabeth consortis sue quorum corpora sub isto lapide marmoreo tumulantur ac etiam orate * In this place 'tis probable the words to be supplied are Pro animabus filiorum suorum et. :::::::::::: Filiarum suarum qui quidem Rogerus obijt vicesimo:::::::: An. Domini Millesimo cccclv. Nec non orate pro animabus omnium::::::::: defunctorum hic & ubique in Christo quiescencium: The next owner of this manor of a new surname, I find to have been Nicholas wait, of whom or his family, I can say little; only by his sale it came to be the inheritance of Ralph Lathum Esquire, a lineal descendant in the male line, from a younger branch of the ancient family of Lathom of Lancashire, who were Lords of that place in the said County (as all the received descents of that family warrant) from the time of King R. 1. until the latter end of E. 3. when Isabel the sole daughter and heir of Sir Thomas Lathom Knight, was married to Sir john Stanlye knight, from whom the now earl of Derby is lineally descended, and (as I conceive) is from the right of this intermarriage, Lord of the Manor of Lathom at this day. The Epitaph of this above said Ralph Lathom, is placed in brass, set into a fair marble stone, covering his tomb, and is as followeth. Here lieth buried Rayff Lathum esquire, late Lord of Vpmistre, and * She was the daughter of Sir Wi●liam Roche Knight. Elizabeth his wife, which Rayffe deceased the nineteen. day of july, An. M. ccccc. Lvii whose soul and all christian souls jesus have mercy. The next family to whom by the sale of William Lathom, son and heir of the aforesaid Ralph Lathom, the before mentioned Manor of Gains did appertain, was the family of D'Ewes, (from whom also it was again at last repurchased by Lathom) for Adrian D'Ewes being descended of the ancient stem of Des Ewes, Dynasts or Lords of the Dition of Kessell in the Duchy of Gelderland, settling and marrying in England not many years after the beginning of the reign of King H. 8. had issue, Gerardt D'Ewes his son and heir, who having purchased the said Manor of Gains as aforesaid, was after his death, according to the former usage, buried in the said Chapel, appendent to the said Manor, as other Lords of the same had been, whose Epitaph, because it is replenished with many particulars touching the antiquity and ensigns of this family. I have been more exact in the full delineation thereof in the figure following. ANTIQVA INSIGNIA FAMI\LIAE DES EWES DYNASTARUM DE KESSEL. INSIGNIA GESTA AB EORVM POSTERIS. Ad memoriam aeternam Geerardt D'Ewes Filij Primogeniti Adriani D'Ewes ex Illustri & perantiqua Familia Des Ewes Dynastarum ditionis de Kessel in ducatu Gelriae oriundi & Aliciae Rauenscroft coniugis suae viri singularis sub hoc marmore tumulati qui obiit die xii. Aprilis, Anno Domini CI●DXCI. Vnico relicto sui ipsius & Graciae Hind primae suae coniugis Filio & haeredae Paulo D'Ewes Armigero (qui duxit in uxorem Sissiliam Filiam unicam & Haeredem Richardi Simonds de Coxden in Pago Dorsetensi Armigeri) & unicâ filiâ Aliciâ nupta Gulielmo Lathum de Vpmenster in Comitatu Essex Armigero. blazon or coat of arms blazon or coat of arms Egregiâ natus Geerardt de stirpe propinquûm Gueldrorum hic foelix ossa regenda tegit. Scilice● invidia fatorum ipse ante sepultus Quam vitâ orbatus, mors ita sacra quies. Stémata namque Deus modo deprimit et modo Ne nobis coeli gaudia terra ferat. Fundamenta tamen proli struxisse regaudec ditat Primaevum ut poterint commemorare DECUS. Hinc proavos superans claros virtute ferendi Non fit ONUS sed erit posteritatis HONOS. Arkesden: Here lieth Anne the daughter and heir of Richard Fox, and the wife of Thamas Langley Esquire, ..... 1467. William Cook & Elis. his wife. Orate pro anima Willi Cook generosi filij Thome Cook militis & Elizabethe uxoris ejus, qui obijt, 1500. et Elizabetha 1503. Tho. Alderton and Alice his wife. Pray for the sowls of Thomas Alderton Stockfishmonger of London, and Alis his wyff, which Alis deceased on Saint George his Eve 1513. This Inscription following is upon the North Wall of this Church. Thomas Alderton was a goodd benefactor to this Chirch, as by his last Will and Testament, remaining in this Chirch, mor plainly it doth appear. He gave certain lands towards the sustentatyon of a Chantre Prest, to sing at the Awter, and to help devyn Servis at the same, on the Holiday, He built this Isle from the north dor hitherto, on whose sowl jesus have mercy. Amen. Stansted Montfichet: Camd. in Essex The habitation in times passed of the family de Monte Fixo, commonly Montfitchet, whereupon the town had that denomination. Rog. Lancaster. In his Crono. descrip. of Essex, a Mss. In the Church lieth buried Roger of Lancaster, who married Philip daughter and heir of Hugh de Bulbeck, the second, saith Norden, and lieth cross legged in an ancient tomb of white stone, upon which no inscription remaineth. He was, in her right, Lord of Stansted, the said manor afterward came unto Hugo de Playze, by marriage of the youngest daughter of Richard Montfitchet, of whom came Elizabeth Countess of Oxford, who was daughter to john Howard knight, by whom the land came to the Earl of Oxford. South Church. In this Church are some old Monuments of the Bruins, which have been old inhabitants there, and descended, saith Norden, as he thinks, from jordan le Brune, jordan le Brune. a knight, Lord of Hacwell in Henry the thirds time. Here is an old manor wherein the old knights which surnamed themselves of the town, Chirche, Rich. Chirche inhabited, whereof one Sir Richard in Henry the thirds time, was one of the king's justices for Gaol delivery. He gave the greatest part of his land to Christ's Church in Canterbury, moved thereunto for want of heirs males. Shopland. In Shopland is an ancient manor called Butlers, Butler of a race of knights, and gentlemen that dwelled there, and gave three covered Cups, as appeareth in the Church window, there is one most beautiful Monument in the Church, made to the memory of one Staple, Staple a Sergeant at Arms, to King Ed. the third, which gave in his Shield a Salter mixed with Staples: which in colours with other Scutcheons remain in the North windows. His tomb is thus inscribed. Tho. Stapel iadis Sergeant d'armes nostre Seigneus le Roi, qi morust le secunde iour de Mars, l'an de Grass Mil. ccclxxi gist ici. Dieu de s'alme eit mercy. Amen. Canewdon. A great parish, so called from King Canutus the Dane, who kept his Court here; unde Canuti domus. The Manor house hath been double trenched, and fenced after the oldest fashion. In the same are other Manors exceeding ancient: as that of Clarendon Hall, the old seat of the Chanceux, Sir Giles Chanceux many of them were knights; as Sir Giles Chanceux, in Edward the first his time; many of them lie buried in the Church, with their Pictures, Scutcheons, and French Poesies all defaced. Another Manor called Breamstons', or rather Beanstons, honoured by knights, descended of Bartholomew a younger son to the Earl of Ewe in Normandy; it hath been inhabited by a knight or more of the name of Scot Scot Another Manor called Apton Hall, and another called Piversey Hall, whereof Sir john Greyton was Lord in Edward the first his time. Sir Io. Greyton One of the best called Lamberne Hall, Lamberne whereof one Lamberne under Swain was Lord in the Conquest time, and so continued till Richard the second, at which time his daughter Thamasin carried all to Toteham, and from thence to Barington, and from thence to Lumsford a Squire of Sussex, that being better planted in his native Country, useth this for a Farm: as I think it was in Lambernes time. So many Lordships in the parish have caused so many of their owners to honour this Church with their Sepultures, but to whose memory, in particular, any one of these monuments were erected, cannot be discerned, they are all so shamefully abused. Great Stanbridge. Sir Lucas T●anye. Here was the inheritance and sepulture of a wariike crew of Knights called Tanye, or Thanye, one of which named Lucas Tanye, a knight, and an expert warrior, at the taking of the Isle of Anglesey and Castle of Ox in Wales, S●ow. ●alsing. was with Sir William Lindsey, William de Audley, Roger Clifford and twelve other of the King's chiefest Captains and Knights, besides seventeen young Gentlemen, and two hundred common soldiers slain, by David Lord of Denbigh, brother to Lhewelin Prince of Wales, and his band of fierce Welshmen, in the tenth year of the reign of King Edward the first. History of Wales. This famous knight was Steward of Gascoyn. Writle. Thomasia, Tho. 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 He●●ngham. Hic iacet Thomasia filia et heres Tho. Heveningham iunioris Ar. filij & heredis Tho. Heveningham senioris Ar. & Tomasie consortis sue, que quidem Thomasia dicta filia & heres primo nupta suit Tho. Berdefield, secundo johanni Bedel, & ultimo Waltero Thomas gen. et obiit die Martis 21. junij 1513 et qui Tho. Heveningham signior, & Thomasia Censors eius, ac Tho. Heveningham junior, iacent partem sub isto lapide, & partem magis directe coram imagine. S. Trinitatis. Quorum animabus propitietur Altissimus. Tho. Fige. Here lieth Thomas Fige, and Margaret his wife, one of the two daughters, and heirs of Raffe Toppesfeld Esquire. He deceased in April 1513. and had issue one son and two daughters. joan Wyborne. Here lieth johane somtym wyff of William Wyborne, daughter and heir of Thomas Hyde. Who died .... 1487. john Pinchon and joan his wife. Here lieth john Pinchon Esquire, who died: .... with jone his wyff, daughter to Sir Richard Empson beheaded. Of whom I have spoken before. Out of the collections of the right honourable Thomas Lord Brudnell of Stouton, as followeth. Margaret Barners. Margaret daughter of Richard Vere of Addington magna in Com. Northampton. Esq. by his wife Isabella, sister and heir of Sir Henry Greene of Drayton in the said County: which Margaret was sister to Sir Henry Vere, whose eldest daughter and coheir Elisabeth, was wife of john first Lord Mordant, lieth here buried with her husband john Barners. john Barners john Barners of Writle in Essex Esquire, Lord of a place there called Turges or Cassus; was gentleman Usher to Princess Elizabeth, eldest daughter to King Edward the fourth, after Sewer to King Edward the fifth, as appear by his Monument in Writle where he lieth buried. Constance Barners. Constance daughter of Sir Robert Pakenham of Streetham in Surrey, was his second wife; she is likewise buried by her husband at Writle, ob. 1522. Finchingfeeld. Io. Barners and Elis. his wife. john Barners of peaches in Finchingfeeld Parish Esq died, Ann. Dom. 1500. and there lieth buried by him, his first wife Elisabeth, daughter of Simon Wiseman. .... Debden or Depondon. Here lieth buried Nicholas Barners, Nic. Barners & Marg his wife. with his wife Margaret, one of the daughters and coheires of john Swyndon Esquire, who died ... 1441 ..... Of this name thus much as followeth. Sir james Barners, Catal. of Honour, title Essex. or berner's (for it is written both ways) (saith Mils) was so great in favour with Richard the second, that it cost him his head, though he were restored in blood by Act of Parliament, the one and twentieth year of the said King Richard, was the only offspring of so many knights of the berner's of berner's Roding in Essex. This Sir james berner's had three sons: Sir Richard berner's of Westhorsley in Surry, whose daughter and heir Margery was married to john Bourchier, created Lord berner's. From whom Sir Tho. Knyvet of Ashulthorp in Norfolk knight. Tho. whose Grandchild john berner's Esquire, Sewer to Prince Edward the fifth, was great Grandfather of William berner's of Tharfield in Hartfordshire: And William, of whom are come the berner's of Finchingfield in Essex. Great Thorndon. Hic .... here's johannis Eton Are .... que quidem Isabella sedere matrimoniali nupsit Roberto Terrell Armig. uni filiorum ..... Isabella Terrell. Voluitur in terra magne virtutis alumpna Elis. Terrell. Elisbet que Terrell generoso sanguine clara, ............. uxor veneranda marito, ................. amica deo. ........ oro vobis dignetur ut miserere Vt gratiamque Dei sic famuletur ei. Hic iacet humata Alicia filia Willelmi Cogeshale militis & Antiochie consortis sue quondam uxor johannis Terrell militis, Sir Io T●rell. and Alice his wife. qui quidem johannes & Alicia habuerunt inter se exitum, filios & filias, quorum nomina sunt scripta ex viraque parte istius lapidis .... M. cccc. xxii. Filii. 1. Walterus. Their children. 2. Thomas. 3. Willelmus senior. 4. johannes. 5. Willelmus junior. 6. johannes Terrell Clericus. Filie. 1. Alicia. 2. Elizabetha. 3. Alionora. 4. Another whose name is worn out of the Tombstone. Here lieth Thomas Terrell, Tho. Tirell. son and heir of john Terrell knyht, and Dame Anne his wyff, daughter to Sir William Marney knight, which Thomas deceysyd the xxii of March in the year of ..... In the glass of the East window. .... Terrell knyth and Dame ...... and for all the souls schuld be prayed for. Prey for the welfar of the said Thomas Terrell knyth, of john Terrell knyth, Alyce his wife, and for all christian souls. .... The wellfar of the said dame Anne. ... ter of William Marney knyth, and .... and .... bet his wife, and for all christian souls. There be other funeral Monuments in this Church, erected to the honour of this family; but their Inscriptions are all torn or worn out, and their Sepulchers, like all the rest, foully defaced: These Tirells (me thinks) having been gentlemen, for so many revolutions of years, of exemplary note, and principal regard, in this Country, might have preserved these houses of rest for their Ancestors, from such violation. But the Monuments are answerable to the Church, both ruinous. This Surname hath ever been as remarkable as ancient, since Walter Tirrell the French knight slew his cousin king William Rufus. Of whom thus much out of the Norman History. Gualther Tirrell a knight of Normandy, cousin to William Rufus (and the killer of the said William) after the unfortunate death of the said William departed into Normandy, where he lived long in the Castle of Chawmont, and there deceased. The place where he swom the water, upon the sudden death of his Sovereign, is called Tirrells Foard to this day. Willingale. Catherine Tirrell Hic iacet Domina Catherina filia Domini Rogeri Beauchamp militis de Com. Bedsord, nuper uxor Thome Torell Armig. que obiit vi die novemb. Ann. Dom. 1436. et Ann. Regni R. Hen. vi post conquest ...... Stanbridge. Edward Mackwilliams Esq. and Henry his Son, with Anne Spelman, wife of the said Henry lie here buried in the Chancel under a fair Tomb, whereupon this Epitaph following is engraven or inlaid in brass. Edward Mackwilliams, his son Henry and Anne his wife. Remember all ye that by this town be to pass, And groundly revolve in your remembrance, Both the world is frail and brittle as glass, The end is death of every man's chance: All worldly people must learn to foot his dance; As Edward Mackwilliham that lithe under this stonn, Out of this transitory liff is past and gonn: Harry Mackwilliham, his son, lithe here also, with Ann Mackwilliham his loving wiff and dear, Thes three persons togidder and no more, Vndre this Tomb interred they be here. Prey for their souls, I pray you, with heart inteere, A Pater Noster an Ave, and a Creed, And iii hundred deyes of pardon you have for your meed. This Anne is figured on the Tomb kneeling, with the Spelmans' Arms of plates all over her gown, and so in the great East-window of the Chancel. Ashdon. In the south Isle of this Church, and in the south window thereof, there are seen three several Cloptons' kneeling in their complete Armour, with their several Escurchions of Arms upon their breasts, (being S. a bend Or, Sir Wil Clopton. between 2 cotizes dauncitee Or) of which three the first is sir William Clopton Knight, there mentioned to have died in the fifth year of King Edward the third. Sir Tho. Clopton The second Sir Thomas Clopton Knight mentioned to have died the second year of the reign of King Richard the second, and the third Edmund Clopton, Ed. Clopton. the year of whose decease is there set down to have been the thirteenth year of the said King Richard. And it is very likely the said Edmund lieth there buried under the Window: for Sir William de Clopton of Clopton, the father of these three, and of other brethren buying the Manor of Newenham, lying for the most part in this parish, of john de Lacie, the brother and heir of Sir Henry de Lacie Knight, in anno 2. E. 3. (of which I have seen the original deed) left to the said Edmund his second son by juetta the daughter of William de Gray, Penes Simonds D● Ewes Equit. aurat. his first wife, his said Manor, from whom it descending to William Clopton his son and heir, and he dying without issue (as did also Sir William Clopton, the son of the above mentioned Sir William. Autographum vidi, penes S. D' Ewes Eq. aurat. ) The said Manor of Newenham passed by Conveyance, dated at Ashdon: 6. die junij an. 13. Hen. 4. as did most of all the other large possessions of the Cloptons' in Suffolk and Cambridgeshire, to William Clopton of Melford, the son and heir of Sir Thomas Clopton Knight, who lieth buried with his wife, the daughter and heir of Mild, under a fair Tomb in the north Isle of the said Church of Melford, called the Cloptons' Isle, as doth also the said William Clopton his son lie buried under the same Tomb, William Clopton. and Margery his wife, the daughter and heir of Elias Francis Esquire, in the same Isle, whose Epitaph is there found on her Grave-stone, as followeth. Hic iacet Margeria Clopton, Margery Clopton. nuper uxor Willielmi Clopton Armig. filia▪ et heres Elie Francis Armigeri que obijt ....... junij Anno Dom. M. cccciiii. evius anime propitietur Deus. And on this grave-stone is there an Escutcheon of Clopton, with an Ermine on the bend, impaled with the Arms of Francis, being gules, a Salteire between four crosses formie Patees, Or, from which said William and Margery, have the three several Families of Cloptons' of Kentwell, Castelins and Liston descended, and the first been much ennobled by the marriage of the daughter and heir of Roydon, descended likewise from the several heirs or coheires of Knyvet, Belhous, Fitzwarren, Basset of Welledon, and diverse other ancient families, as was that family of Lyston, by the marriage of the daughter and heir of Say, whose ancestors had been long owners of that manor, Abstract. Relevior. de Scaccar. Regis termino. Hill a. 37. Ed. 3. and held it in Capite, as Clopton now doth, by the service of making Wafers at the King's Coronation. And because these foresaid three Families of Clopton, did descend, as I have already noted, and were at once branched forth from Sir William Clopton of Lutons in the County of Suffolk Knight: it shall not be impertinent to set down his Epitaph, as it is now to be seen on his grave-stone in the North Isle of the said Chapel of Melford Church, amongst diverse others of his Ancestors, being as followeth. Sir Will. Clopton Knight, and joan his wife. Orate pro animabus Willielmi Clopton militis et Iohanne Consortis sue, Qui quidem Willielmus, obijt vicesimo die Febrarij Anno Dom. millesimo quingentesimo tricesimo quorum animabus propitietur Deus. Amen. And on the grave-stone above this Epitaph, is the Cloptons' coat before mentioned, impaled with Marrow, which is Azure a fesse nebulee, inter three Maidens heads coupes, by the Shoulders Are, the periwigs, Or. Thus much of the Cloptons' I had from that studious learned gentleman Sir Simond D'ewes' Knight, of which much more when I come to Melford and Tallo-wratting Church in Suffolk. Here lieth Nicholas Inglefield Esquyr, sometime controller of the house to King Richard the second, who died the first of April in the year of Graze, M. cccc.xv. whose soul jesus pardon, Amen, Amen, Amen. Here end the Monuments in the County of Essex. Additions, or certain Epitaphs and Inscriptions upon Tombs and Gravestones within certain Churches in the City of London: Collected by myself and others not many years ago, of which, few or none, of any Antiquity, are remaining in the said Churches at this present day; such is the despite not so much of Time, as of malevolent people to all Antiquities, especially of this kind. In Saint Paul's. IN this Cathedral Church, and near unto Sir john Beauchamps Tomb, (commonly called Duke Vmfreys) upon a fair marble stone, inlaid all over with brass, (of all which, nothing but the heads of a few brazen nails are at this day visible) and engraven with the representation and cote-Armes of the party defunct. Thus much of a mangled funeral Inscription was of late time perspicuous to be read, as followeth. Hic iacet Paganus Roet miles Guyenne Rex Armorum Pater Catherine Ducisse lancaster ...... Sir pain Roet King of Arms. This Sir pain Roet had issue, the aforesaid Duchess, and Anne who was married to Geffrey Chaucer, Geffrey Chaucer Brother in Law by marriage to john, Duke of Lancaster. our famous English Poet, who by her had issue. Sir Thomas Chaucer, whose daughter Alice was married to Thomas Montacute, Earl of Salisbury, by whom she had no issue, and after to William de la Pole Duke of Suffolk, and by him had john Duke of Suffolk and others. The abovesaid Katherine, eldest daughter of this King of Arms, was first married to Sir Oats Swynford Knight, and after to john of Gaunt the great Duke of Lancaster; of whose issue by her is observed to be descended a most royal and illustrious of spring; videlicet, Eight Kings, four Queens, and five Princes of England; Six Kings, and three Queens of Scotland; two Cardinals, above twenty Dukes, and almost as many Duchess of the kingdom of England; diverse Dukes of Scotland, and most of all the now ancient Nobility of both these Kingdoms, besides many other potent Princes, and eminent nobility of foreign parts. Saint Giles Cripplegate. Here under a large marble stone (whereupon no Inscription is at this day remaining, neither any Effigies of the deceased left; both of which were inlaid and engraven upon the monument as I was credibly informed) lieth interred the body of Sir john Wriothesley Knight, alias, Garter, principal King at Arms, Father of William Wriothesley, York Herald; who had issue, Thomas Wriothesley, Knight of the Garter, Lord Chancellor of England, and the first of that surname, Earl of Southampton. His creation was the eighteenth year of the reign of King Ed. 4. as appears by this his Patent following. Pat. 18. Ed. 4. m. 28. part 2. Ex Arch. Turr. Lond. Rex omnnibus ad quos etc. Salutem. Sciatis quod cum non sit no●um, set iam diu ab antiquis temporibus usitatum, quod inter ceteros Officiales & Ministros quos Principum lateribus pro corum magnificencia atque gloria, adherere decet eorum officij Armorum cura committitur copiam habere debeat, ut nec tempus bellorum quibus neque pacis sine convenientibus & aptis Ministris debeat preteriri. Nos igitur considerationis actē in laudabilia seruicia que delectus nobis johannes * Wryothesley. Wrythe, alias nuper dictus Norrey, Rex Armorum parcium Borialium Regni nostri Anglie, in hijs que ad officium illud spectare intelliguntur, exercuit, dirigentes eund. propterea, & non minus ob solerciam et sagacitatem quas in eo satis habemus exploratas, in principalem Haraldum & Officiarium incliti nostri Ordinis Garterij, Armorumque Regem Anglicorum, ex gracia nostra speciali ereximus, fecimus, constituimus, ordinavimus, creavimus, et coronavimus; ac per presentes erigimus, facimus, constituimus, ordinamus, creamus, & coronamus, ac ei officium illud, nec non nomen le Garter, Stilum titulum libertates & preeminencias, huiusmodi officio conveniencia et concordancia, ac ab antiquo consueta, damus et concedimus, ac ipsum in eisdem realiter investimus. Habend. occupand. et exercend. Officium illud, ac nomen, stilum, titulum & preeminencias predict. eidem Iohanni pro termino vise sue, cum omnibus iuribus, proficuis, commoditatibus & emolumentis eidem officio qualiter cumque debit pertinen, siue spectan. Et ulterius concessimus et per presentes concedimus prefato johanni in Regem Armorum Anglicorum ut prefertur erect. Quadraginta libras per annum racione et causa officij illius. Percipiend. eidem Iohanni singullis annis durante vita sua, pro vadijs, & feodis officij predicti, de parua customa nostra, in portu civitatis nostre London, per manus custumariorum sive collectorum custuine predicte, in portu predicto pro tempore existen. ad terminos Sancti Michaelis et Pasche per equales porciones, una cum tali Liberatura Vesture, qualem, et eisdem modo et forma prout aliquis alius huiusmodi Rex Armorum sive principalis Haraldus tempore Domini Edwardi nuper Regis Anglie teroij progenitoris nostri habuit et percepit. Habend & percipiend▪ annuatim Liberaturam huiusmodi, eidem Iohanni singulis annis ad terminum vite sue ad magnam Garderobam nostram per manus custodis eiusdem pro tempore existentis. Eo quod expressa mencio de vero valore annuo premissorum, seu alicuius eorum, aut de aliis donis sive concessionibus eidem Iohanni per nos ante hec tempora fact▪ in presentibus minime fact. existit. Aut aliquo Statuto, actu, ordinacione, prouisione, seu restrictione in contrarium fact. edit. ordinat seu provis. Aut aliqua alia re, causa vel materia quacumque non astant: In cuius, etc. Teste R. apud Westm. sexto die julij per ipsum Regem & de data predict. Now here I have just occasion given me, to set down the manner of the creation or crowning of Garter, principal K. of Arms, & of Clarentieux & Norroy, Provincial Kings of Arms; as also the creation of Heralds, & Pursuivants of Arms: which anciently was done by the King, but of later times is performed by the Earl Martial, having an especial Commission therefore signed by the King for every particular Creation. And first I will begin with Garter, and show what necessaries are to be provided for him, at the time he shall be crowned, which are these following. A Book and a Sword to be sworn upon. A Crown guilt. A Collar of Esses▪ A Bowl of wine, which Bowl is fee to the new created King. And a Coat of Arms of velvet richly enbroydered. The creation or crowning of Garter, as well anciently as in these days, was, and is on this manner. I will instance with Sir Gilbert Dethick knight, who was created Garter principal king of Arms, on Sunday the twentieth day of April, in the fourth of Ed. the sixth. First, the said Garter kneeled down before the King's majesty, and the King's Sword was holden on a book, and the said Garter laid his hand upon the book, and also upon the sword, whiles Clarentieux, king of arms, read the oath. And when the oath was red, and the said Garter had kissed the book and the sword, than the said Clarentieux read the letters patents of his office; (which were dated the 29. of April in the year aforesaid) In the reading whereof, as the words do follow in order, so did the King's majesty first take the cup of wine, and pouring it on his head, named him Garter. After that, his Majesty put on him his coat of Arms, and the collar of SS about his neck, and lastly the crown upon his head, and so finished the ceremony. The oath of Garter principal King of arms at a Chapter holden at Greenwich in the 28 year of King Henry the eight. Ye shall take the oath that ye shall obey first of all the supreme head of this most noble Order, and after him, the other knights of the same, namely, in such things as shall belong to your office, and shall be found reasonable. And because ye be taken in here, as to be privy of counsel here to be taken. Ye shall swear that ye shall be a man of silence, true and faithful in all things here to be done, and shall in no wise disclose any part thereof. Ye shall swear also, that ye shall faithfully and diligently, fulfil perform and execute such things as shall be committed, put in credit, or charge unto you. And ye shall diligently inquire of all noble and notable acts of any, and of every of the Knights of this most noble Order; and ye shall certify the Register thereof, that he may the better describe and commend the same to memory. Moreover, if any Knight of this order die, ye shall incontinent upon knowledge thereof, cause the Sovereign, and after him the other Knights, then alive, to be ascertained thereof. And finally, ye shall swear, that ye shall truly and faithfully, use and exercise this same your office. So God you help, and this holy evangely. The creation of the Provincial Kings of Arms, viz. Clarencieux and Norroy, for which are to be provided. First, his Letters Patents. Item, a Book to take his oath upon. Item, a Sword, which is to be drawn, and laid cross on the book. Item, a Crown, which must be set on his head. Item, a Collar of SS about his neck. Item, a Bowl of wine, which must be poured on his head, and that Bowl is fee to the new created King. Item, a Coat of Arms of Velvet richly embroidered. The manner of the creation of a Provincial King of Arms. He shall be brought into the presence of the King, or his Earl Martial, or the Earl Marshal's Deputy, by the two other Kings, all the Heralds and Pursuivants following. Then he kneeleth down, while Garter readeth the articles of his oath, holding his hand upon a book and sword. That done, he kisseth the book, and hilts of the sword. Then his patent is read by an Herald, and as the words following be read, his Coat is first put on by the King, his Marshal or Deputy, than the Collar of SS put about his neck, than the Crown on his head, and lastly the Bowl of wine poured on his head, calling him by his name, as Clarencieux, or Norroy. 1 Investimus— tunica Armorum. 2 Erigimus— Collari. 3 Coronamus— appositione Corone. 4 Et nomen ei imponimus N. The Oath of the King of Arms at the time when he shall be crowned. Ye shall swear by the Oath that ye received when ye were created Herald, and by the faith that ye owe unto the King our Sovereign Lord, whose Arms you bear, that you shall truly keep such things as been comprised in these articles following. First, whensoever the King shall command you to do any message to any other King, Prince, Estate, or any other person out of this Realm; or to any person, of what Estate, degree, or condition he be of within the same, that ye shall do it as honourably and truly as your wit and reason can serve you; And as greatly to the adventage of our Sovereign Lord the King, and this his Realm, and true report bring again to his Highness of your messages, and as near to the charge to you committed, in word, and in substance, as your said reason may attain unto. Always keeping yourself secret for any manner of motion, save to such persons as ye be commanded to utter your charge unto. Secondly, ye shall do your true devoir every day to be more cunning than other in the office of Arms, so that ye may be the better furnished to teach other in the office of Arms under you, and execute with more wisdom and eloquence, such charges as our Sovereign Lord, or any Nobleman of his Realm, shall lay unto you, by virtue of the office the which his Highness will elect you to at this time. Discovering in no wise that ye are charged to keep close, unless it be prejudicial unto the King our Sovereign Lord, and to his Realm. Thirdly, ye shall do your full diligence to have knowledge of all the Noble Gentlemen within your Marches, which should bear coats in the field, in the service of our Sovereign Lord, his Lieutenants, Officers, or Commissioners, and them with their Issues truly to register, and such Arms as they bear with their differences due in Arms to be given, and to inquire if any of them hold by any service, as by Knight's Fee, whereby they should do the King our Sovereign Lord service in the defence of this his Realm, which also ye shall truly and indifferently note and register. Fourthly, ye shall not be strange to teach Pursuivants or Heralds, ne to ease them in such doubts concerning the office of Arms as they shall move you unto, and such as cannot be eased by you, ye shall show to the Constable or Martial; or if any Pursuivant ask any doubt of you, ye shall ask him first whether he have desired any of the Heralds to instruct him in the same; and if he say nay, ye shall limit him to one of them, or ease him if you can. And if you cannot, to move the said cause at the next Chapter, and if the said doubt be not there determined, by the said Chapter, then to show it to the Constable or Martial. Also ye shall keep duly in your Marches (if ye be present in the precincts thereof) your Chapters, to the increase of cunning in the office of Arms, and the doubts that there cannot be eased, ye shall move unto the Constable or Martial. Fiftly, ye shall observe and keep to your cunning and power, all such Oaths as ye made when ye were created Herald, to the honour and worship of Nobles, and integrity of living. Namely, in eschewing of dislandered places and persons reproached, and to be more ready to excuse then to blame any Noble person, unless ye be charged to say the sooth by the King, Constable, or Marshal, in place judicial. And also ye shall promise truly to register all acts of honour in manner and form as they be done, as far forth as your cunning and power may extend. So help you God and the holy Euangeles, and by the cross of this Sword, that longeth to knighthood. Necessaries to be provided for the Creation of an Herald of Arms. First, a Book, whereon he must take his oath: Item, a Sword, which must be drawn. Item, his Letters Patents, which must be read by an Officer. Item, a Collar of SS of silver, to put about his neck. Item, a Bowl of wine to pour upon his head, which Bowl the new Herald is to have. Item, his Coat of Arms, which must be Satin embroidered, and enriched with gold. The manner of the Herald's creation. The Herald of Arms is brought into the presence of the King or his Earl Martial, or the Earl Marshal's Deputy, by two of the eldest Heralds, the Kings of Arms going before them, and all the Heralds and Pursuivants following, all making their due reverence. Then he kneeleth down, and his oath being read by Garter, he sweareth to the contens by kissing both the Book and cross of the Sword hilt. The Patent is read by one of the Heralds, and at Investimus, the king or the Earl Martial turneth the Coat Sleeves to the sides, and putteth the Collar of SS about his neck, whereby he is created an Esquire; but of late times the Coat is carried in by an Herald of Arms, and after by him presented to the Earl Martial, who immediately investeth the new Herald therewith; and at Nomen imponimus, he poureth the wine upon his head, and calleth him by his name, as Lancaster, or otherwise, as his office doth require. The Oath of the Herald at the time of his creation before his Sovereign. First, ye shall swear that ye shall be true to the most high and mighty Prince the King, our Sovereign Lord. And if you have any knowledge, or hear any imagination of treason, or language, or words that might sound to the derogation or hurt of his estate and highness (which God defend) ye shall in that case as hastily, and as soon as it is to you possible, discover and show it unto his highness, or to his noble and discreet Council: and to conceal it in no wise. Also, ye shall promise and swear that ye shall be conversant, and serviceable to all Gentlemen, to do their commands to their worship and knighthood, by your good counsel that God hath sent you, and ever ready to offer your service unto them. Also ye shall promise and swear to be secret, and to keep the secrets of Knights, Esquires, Ladies, and Gentlewomen, as a confessor of arms; and not to discover them in any wise, except it be for treason, as it is before said. Also ye shall promise and swear, if fortune fall you in diverse Lands and Countries wherein you go or ride, that you find any gentleman of name, and of arms, that hath lost his goods in worship and knighthood, in the King's service, or in any other place of worship, and is fallen into poverty, ye shall aid, support, and succour him in that ye may, and if he ask you of your good to his sustenance, ye shall give him part of such good as God hath sent you, to your power, and as you may bear. Also ye shall promise and swear, if you be in any place, that you hear any language between party and party, that is not worshipful, profitable, nor virtuous, that you keep your mouth close, and report it not forth, but to their worship, and the best. Also ye shall promise and swear, if so be you be in any place, that you hear any debate or language dishonest between gentleman and gentlewoman, the which ye be privy to, if so be ye be required by Prince, judge, or any other to bear witness, unless that the law will needs compel you so to do: you shall not without licence of both parties; and when ye have leave, ye shall not for any favour, love, or awe, but say the sooth to your knowledge. Also ye shall promise and swear, to be true and secret to all gentlewomen, widows, and maidens, and in case that any man would do them wrong, or force them, or disinherit them of their Livelihood, and they have no good to pursue them for their right to Princes, or judges: if they require you of supportation, ye shall support them, with your good wisdom and counsel to Princes and judges. Also ye shall promise and swear, that you shall forsake all places of dishonesty, the play of Hazardy, and the common haunt of going unto Taverns, and other places of debates, eschewing vices, and taking you to virtues to your power. This article, and all other articles above said, ye shall truly keep, so God you help, and holydoome, and by this Book, and Cross of this Sword, that belongeth to Knighthood. Things necessary to be provided for the Creation of a Pursuivant at Arms. First a Book, whereon he must take his Oath. Item, his Letters Patents which must be read by an Officer. Item, His coat of Arms of Damask embroidered. Item, a Bowl of wine to be poured on his head, and that Bowl is to be taken by the new Pursuivant of Arms. The manner of the Pursuivants Creation. The Pursuivant of arms shall be brought into the presence of the King, (or his Earl Martial, or the Earl Marshal's Deputy) between two of the eldest Pursuivants, and kneel down before him, laying his hand upon the book, Garter principal King of arms reads the oath under written; and so he kisseth the book. Then his letters Patents shall be read by an Herald, and when he saith Creamus, the King or the Earl Martial putteth on his Coat of arms, with the sleeve before. And when he saith Nec non nomen vulgariter etc. the King or the Earl Martial poureth the Bowl of wine upon his head, calling him by his name, as Portcullis, or otherwise as his office requireth. The advertisement and oath of a Pursuivant of Arms at the time of his creation. First ye shall swear that ye shall be true to the most high, most mighty, and most excellent Prince the King, our Sovereign Lord. And if you have any knowledge, or hear any imagination of treason, or language, or word, that shall sound to the derogation or hurt of his Estate and Highness (which God defend) ye shall in that case as hastily, and as soon, as it is to you possible, discover and show it to his Highness, or to his noble and discreet Counsel. Also ye shall dispose you to be lowly, humble, and serviceable to all Estates universal that Christian been, not lying in wait to blame, ne hurt none of the said Estates in any thing that may touch their honours. Also ye shall dispose you to be secret and sober in your port, and not too busy in language, ready to commend, and loath to blame; and diligent in your service, eschewing from vices, and taking you to virtues, and true in your reports, and so to exercise, while ye be in the Office of a Pursuivant, that your merits may cause your more preferring in the Office of Arms in time coming. All such Articles and things as belongeth to a Pursuivant of Arms to keep, you shall well and truly observe and keep. So help you God, and Holydome, and by this Book. A Catalogue showing what Kings of Arms were in former Ages, and now out of use in this Realm: as also the Succession of the King's Heralds, and Pursuivants of Arms have from ancient times to this present day succeeded one another. And first, The Succession of the principal Kings of Arms. GArter is the principal King of Arms (as I have written before) and goeth first as the only ringleader of them all: Garter principal King of Arms. not so much for the antiquity of his Creation, as for the supereminence of the Order of the Garter: for he was but instituted by King Henry the fifth. His peculiar Office is (which partly you may read in his oath) with all dutiful service to attend upon the Knights of the Garter at their Solemnities: To advertise them which are chosen of their new election, to call them to be enstaulled at Windsor; To cause their Arms to be hanged up upon their Seats, and to marshal the Funeral Rites and Ceremonies of them, as also of the greater Nobility, as of Princes, Dukes, Marquesses, Earls, Viscounts, and Barons: and to do many other services unto the King and State. The privileges of Garter King of Arms, his goods and Servants as appeareth in the Black▪ book of the most honourable Order of the Garter. Whereof this ancient institution following is enregistered. Hij tres hujus ordinis officiales Scriba, videlicet, Garterus Rex Armorum, & Hostiarius ab atra virga nuncupatus; ipsi cum suis tam rebus quam ministris in suis officijs permanentibus sub perpetua supremi protectione ac propugnaculo securè durabunt. Vnde si quaevis injuria seu violentia ipsis inferatur, vel ab eis qui supremo subjecti sunt, vel externis quoties causas suas arbitrio supremi submittent, ipse cum Sodalibus exhibebit eis iusticiam aut exhibendam ex aequo et congruo procurabit. Si vero pars adversa causam suam supremo submittere detractabit ipse cum Commilitonibus eum erga Officiales hos animum habebit, ut ipsorum causam quoad iustum at que aequum erit cum debito favore tueri velit. Sir William Brugge or Brugges knight, In Arch. Turr. Lond. was the first King of the name Garter, in the reign of Henry the fifth, as aforesaid; His Patent was confirmed by Henry the sixth in the four and twentieth year of his reign, as it is in the Patent Rolls of that year, the eleventh membrane. john Smert succeeded Sir William Brugge in the said Office Patent, Ann. 39 Hen. 6. Member 14. In the fourteenth of Edward the fourth, he was employed with a defiance to the French King Lewis the eleventh; The which no little abashed the said King. Yet nevertheless following the said Officer of Arms directions, obtained by that means a Peace which he much coveted. And Edward the fourth as willingly assented, because he was deceived by the Duke of Burgundy and the Constable of France, who failed him in their promised aides. The French King gave unto the said King of Arms upon his return three hundred French Crowns, and a piece of Velvet of thirty yard● long. The next was Sir john writhe or Wriothesley, here interred, and created as aforesaid. This Sir john Wriothesley, Ann. 23. Edwardi quarti, was employed into Scotland, and with him Northumberland Herald, with letters of procuracy signed, and sealed by the King his master to redemand diverse great sums of money which had been disbursed to james the third, King of Scots, upon a promise of marriage intended to have been made between the Prince of Scotland, and Lady Sicily, daughter of King Edw. the fourth, who in that Treaty having the liberty of refusal, thereupon redemanded the foresaid sums by his said procuratours. Next to him Sir Thomas Wriothesley created in the time of Henry the seventh. This Sir Tho. Wriothesley in the 19 of H. 8. was joined Ambassador with Viscount Lisle (the natural son to King Edward the fourth) and others which carried the Garter to the French King Francis the first. He that succeeded him was Sir Thomas Wall, Knight, created Ann. 26. Hen. 8. Sir Christopher Baker Knight of the Bathe created Garter, Ann. 28. Hen. 8. 1536. Sir Gilbert Dethick Knight, was preferred to the Office of Garter, the fourth of Edward the sixth. He died in the year 1584. This Sir Gilbert Dethick was joined Ambassador with the marquis of Northampton, to carry the Garter to the French King Henry the second, Ann. 5. E. 6. And the like for the same purpose to the Prince of Pymont, with Edward Lord Clinton; And also with the Lord Hunsden to the French King Charles the ninth: and with the Earl of Sussex) to the Emperor Maximilian; and likewise with the Lord Willoughby to Frederick King of Denmark. Sir William Dethick Knight, was crowned Garter in the eight and twentieth year of Queen Elizabeth; he was deposed the first year of King James. This Sir William Dethick lieth buried in Paul's, near unto Sir pain Roet, under a large marblestone. Whereupon this Inscription following is engraven. Hic ..... in Domino, Gulielmus Dethick Eques Auratus filius & heres Gilberti Dethick Equitis aurati. Qui ambo fuerunt Garterij Principales Reges Armorum Anglicorum. Hic Anno 1584. aetat. 84. Ille anno 1612. etat. suae 70. in Domino obdormierunt. And after his deposing Sir William Segar Knight (now living, Ann. 1631.) was created Garter: he hath written a learned book called Honour Military and Civil. A Succession of the Provincial Kings of Arms. Provincial Kings of Arms are, at this day, only two, Clarentieux, and Norrey. Clarentieux was ordained by Edward the fourth: for he obtaining the Dukedom of Clarence by the death of George his brother, who was secretly murdered in the Tower of London, made the Herald which properly belonged to the Duke of Clarence, a King at Arms, and called him Clarentius, or Clarentieux: but in whose time, or upon what occasion this name, and Office of Clarencieux began, I do not find, saith Sir Henry Spelman, Glosslit H. but certainly it was of greater Antiquity then from Edward the fourth, and might be called South-Roy, of his Province of South, as North-Roy or Norroy of the North parts. His proper Office is to Marshal and dispose the Funerals of all the lesser Nobility, as Knights and Esquires, thorough the Realm on the South side of Trent. The office of Norrey (the time nor the reason of his Creation and Title I do not know) is the same on the North side of Trent, that Clarentieux hath on this side, as may well appear by his name, signifying the Northern King, or King of the North parts. These two (saith Milles) have by Charter power to visit the Nobleman's Families, to set down their Pedigrees, to distinguish their Arms, and in the open Market place to reprove such as falsely take upon them Nobility or Gentry. And to order every man's Exequys and Funerals, according to their dignity, and to appoint unto them their Arms or Ensigns. The names, surnames, and several adjuncts of these Kings of Arms, according to the foresaid Catalogue beginning at Edward the first, and continued to these times. jaques Hedingley in the time of King Ed. the first, was King of Arms by the name of Guyon. Sir pain Rowet in the reign of Edward the third, was King of Arms by the name of Guyon. john March was King of Arms by the name of Norroy, 2. pars pat. An. 9 R. 2. Membr. 21. Richard deal Brugge, otherwise called Lancaster, was King of Arms for the North in the time of Henry the fourth, and in the first of Henry the fifth. William Tyndall in the time of the foresaid Henry the fourth, was King of Arms by the name of Lancaster. ..... in the time of Henry the fifth, was King of Arms by the name of Agincourt. Kings of Arms in the reign of King H. the 5. William Horsley, alias Clarentieux. john Kiteby alias Ireland. john Wrexworth Guyon. john Ashwell, Lancaster. Thomas More, Guyonne. Hen. the Sixt. Roger Leigh, Clarentieux. john writhe, Norroy. Thomas colyer, Ireland. Ed. the fourth. john Mowbrey, Clarentieux. William Hawkeslow Guyonne. Sir Thomas Holme, knight, Clarencieux. john Ferrant March. john Moor, Norroy. Officio Heraldi Regis Armorum partium Borialium Regni Anglie perresignationem johannis writhe, alias dicti Gartere vacant Rex constituit johannem More ac dictum Windesore, Heraldum Regem que Armorum partium Borialium Regni Anglie, & imponit ei nomen vulgar Norrey pro termino vite sue Teste Rege apud W. 9 julii. 2. pars pat: Ann. 18. E. 4. Membr. 4. Richard Ashwell, Ireland. William Ballare, March. In Edward the fifth's time no Officers were Created. Ri●h. the third. Richard Champney, Gloucester. 1. Ric. 3. Walter beling Ireland. Kings in the reign of Hen. the seventh. Roger Macado, Clarencieux. Thomas Tonge, Norroy. William Carlisle, Norroy. john Young, Norroy. Thomas Tong Clarencieux. Thomas Bevolt, Norroy. Hen. the eight. Thomas Wall, Norroy. Thomas Bevolt Clarencivex, who in the fourteenth of Henry the eight, was employed to defy the French King; And in the 19 of Henry the eight, to defy the Emperor Charles the fifth: which he performed with great grace, as may appear in the Spanish Story, and received liberal gifts: john joiner Norroy. Thomas Hawley Norroy. Thomas Hawley Clarencieux. Christopher Barker Norroy. William Fellow Norroy. Gilbert Dethick Norroy. In the reign of Ed. the sixth. William Harvey Norroy. Bartholomew Butler Ulster. In the reign of Q Mary. William Harvey Clarencieux 1556. obijt 1566. Laurence Dalton Norroy 1556. obijt 1561. William Flower Norroy, In the reign of Q Elizabeth 1561. obijt 1588. Nicholas Narboone Ulster. Robert Cook Clarencieux, 1566. He was employed with the Earl of Derby for carrying of the Garter to the French King Henry the third, an. 1584. ob●jt anno 1592. Edmund Knight Norroy, 1592. obijt 1593. Richard Legh Clarencieux, 1594. obiit 1597. Sept. 23. William Camden Clarencieux, 39 Queen Elizabeth, 1597. who died the 9 of November, 1623. aged 74. as appears by this Inscription following upon his Funeral Monument in the Abbey of Westminster, where he lieth buried. Qui fide Antiqua, et opera assidua Britannicam Antiquitatem indagavit, Simplicitatem innatam honestis studijs excoluit. Animi solertiam candore illustravit Gulielmus Camdenus ab Elizabetha R: ad Regis Armorum Clarentij titulo dignitatem evocatus. Hic spe certa resurgendi in Christo S E Obijt Anno Domini 1623. 9 Novembris Etatis suae 74. I have read this Ogdoasticon following, penned (but by whom I know not) to the honour of our Antiquary Camden, & in the praise of his Book. Londinum Camdene tibi dedit aethera et auram, Ingenij cultum praebuit Oxonium. Historicum Occidivi, delubra monastica templa Reddunt, materies terra Britanna fuit Londinum, Oxonium, delubra, et terra Britannae Camdeni pulchro nobilitata libro. Postque magisque ergo; delubra, & terra Britannae Claret Londinum claret & Oxonium. This learned reviuer of Antiquities writ a chorographical Description of the most flourishing Kingdoms of England Scotland & Ireland, & the Lands adjoining, out of the depth of Antiquity. As also the famous history of Queen Elizabeth, the mirror of all Princes of the world. There is likewise another book said to be of his penning, called Remains, concerning Britain, but especially England, and the inhabitants thereof. Sir Richard Saint George, In the reign of King James. Knight, Norroy. Sir Richard Saint George, Knight, Clarencieux, a Gentleman ever ready to give me his best furtherance in this work. Created the 23. of December, 1623. and now living, 1631. Sir john Borough Knight, a learned Gentleman, created Norroy, the foresaid 23. of December, 1623. Heralds of Arms, their Names, Surnames, and Additions from former times to this present year, 1631. These Heralds at this day are only six, which by the names of their additions, Lancaster, Richmond, Chester, Somerset, York, Windesor. These are created to attend Dukes in marshal executions, and in all things endeavour themselves for the defence of their society. . First I find a Herald by his addition called Wales, 15. julij 2 pars pat. an 17. R. 2. m. 13. And afterwards he was called Percy Herald, 6. Augusti Anno 2. Hen. 4. As also one Bardolfe, Herald of Arms, anno 22. R. 2. And Windsor Herald confirmed an. 3. Rich. 2. Heralds in the reign of King Henry the fifth. William Brugges, alias Chester, afterwards Garter. William Horsley, alias Leopard, afterwards Ireland: john Wrexworth, alias, Exeter, afterwards Guyon. Nicholas Serby, alias Leopard. john Hoswell, alias Clarence. William Boys, alias Exeter. Giles Waster, alias Mowbray. john Ashwell, alias Leopard, afterward Lancaster, King of Arms. Heralds in the reign of King Henry the sixth. Thomas More, alias, Windesore, afterward Guyonne. Roger Legh, Chester, afterwards Clarencieux. john writhe, or Wriothesley, Leopard Herald, and afterward Garter, as aforesaid Thomas Collier Clarence, afterward Ireland john Mowbray, Exeter, afterward Clarencieux. Robert Ashwell, Windesore. William Hawkeslow Leopard, afterward Guyonne. john Horsley, Mowbray. james Billet, Chester. john Millet, Clarence. Richard Stanton, Chester. Robert Dunham, Exeter. Heralds in the time of Edward the Fourth. james Collier, Lancaster. john Ferrant, Windsor, afterward March. john More, Chester, afterward Norroy. Roger Mallet, Falcon. Richard Ashwell, Lancaster, afterward Ireland. Thomas Tonge, Richmond, afterward Norroy. Henry Frank, York, William Carlisle, Richmond, afterward Norroy: Richard Champney, Falcon, afterward Gloucester▪ Roger Stamford, Chester, Richard Slaske, Windsor. In the time of Edward the fifth, murdered in the Tower, whose reign was but ten weeks and four days, no officers of Arms were created. In the time of Richard the Third. Roger Bromley, Chester, 1 R. 3: john Waters, York, 1 R. 3. In the reign of Henry the 7. these Heralds following. john Young, Windsor, alias Norroy. Thomas Bevolt, Lancaster, afterward Norroy, and lastly, Clarencieux. Thomas Waters, Carlyle. Rowland Playnford, York. Robert Browne, Richmond. Thomas Wall, Richmond, afterward Windsor, than Norroy. William jennyngs, Lancaster. William Tyndall, Lancaster. Ralph Lagysse, York. john joiner, Richmond, afterward Norroy. In the time of Henry the eight, created as followeth. Thomas Hawley, Carlisle, afterward Norroy. Thomas Wall, Windsor, afterward Norroy, as before. Christopher Barker, Richmond, and next Garter. john Pond, Somerset. William Fellow, Lancaster, after that, Norroy. Thomas Byseley, York. William Hastings, Somerset: Allen Dagnall, York. Randolfe jackson, Chester. Richard Crook, Windsor. Leonard Warcopp, Carlisle. Charles Wriothesley, Windesore. Thomas Mylner, Lancaster. john Narboone, Richmond. Thomas Traheyron, Somerset. Bartholomew Butler, York, afterwards Ulster. Fulk ap Howell, Lancaster. Richard Radclyffe, Somerset. Gilbert Dethick, Richmond, afterward Norroy, than Garter. William Harvey Somerset, afterwards Clarentieux. William Flower, Chester, (afterwards Norroy.) This Chester attended the Embassage sent by the marquis of Northhampton, when he carried the Garter to the French King Henry the second, Anno 5. Edwardi sexti. In the time of Edward the Sixt. Laurence Dalton, Richmond, afterward Norroy. Edmond Atkinson, Somerset. In Queen Mary's reign. Martin Marolfe, York, 1. of her reign, obijt 1563. the 5. of Elizabeth. Nicholas Tubman, Lancaster. Nicholas Narboone, Richmond, afterward Ulster. Heralds created in the happy Reign of Queen Elizabeth. john Cock, Lancaster, 1. Eliz. 1558. employed to attend the Earl of Leycester, Lieutenant and Governor general of Queen Elizabeth's forces in the Low Countries. Robert Cook, Chester, 4. Eliz. 1562. and next, Clarentieux. Richard Turpyne, Windsor, 7. Eliz. 1564: William Colborne York, 7. Eliz. 1564. Hugh Cotgrave, Richmond, 9 Eliz. 1566. john Hart, Chester Herald, 9 Eliz. who writ a book of the Reformation of the English Orthography, imprinted, Ann. Dom. 15. Ralph Langman, York, 10. Eliz. 1567.: William Dethick, York, 12. Eliz. 1569. and next of all Gar●er, 28. Eliz. 1586. In the time of his being York Herald, he was employed to attend the Embassage sent by the Earl of Sussex to carry the Garter to the Emperor Maximilian. And afterwards was joined Ambassador with the Earl of Shrewsbury to carry the Garter to the French King Henry. Robert Glover, Somerset. 14. Eliz. 1571. A man he was of infinite industry, and incredible pains, a man of an excellent wit, and learning: witness that Catalogue of Honour begun by himself in Latin, and finished by his kinsman Thomas Milles, in which he undertook to clear the D●s●cents, and Royal pedigrees of our Kings and Nobility, he attended the Embassage sent by the Earl of Derby, which carried the Garter to the French King Henry the third: And was Princely rewarded. He died 10 of April, 1588. aged 45. years, and lieth buried in S. Giles Church, Cri●plegate: to whose memory a Monument is there erected, whose inscription you may read in Stows Survey. Edmund Knight, Chester, 17. Eliz. 1574 afterwards Norroy. Ann. 34. Eliz. 1592. as before. Nicholas Dethicke Windsor, 26. Eliz. 1583. obijt januar. 1596. Richard Lee, Richmond, 27. Eliz. 1584. afterwards Clarentieux. Nicholas Paddy, Lancaster, 31. Eliz. 1588. Humphrey Hales, York, 30. Eliz. 1587. obijt januar. 16. 1591. William Segar, Somerset, 31. Eliz. 1588. afterwards Norroy, than Garter, ut supra. james Thomas, Chester, 34. Eliz. 1592. March 26. Ralph Brooke, York, 34. Eliz. 1592. March 16. William Camden, Richmond, afterward Clarencieux, ut supra. john Raven, Richmond. Thomas Lant, Windsor. Robert Treswell, Somerset, was employed to attend upon the embassage sent by the Earl of Nottingham, to Philip the third, King of Spain, to receive his Oath for the Peace in anno 1604. Richard St. George, Windsor, than Norroy, and now Clarentieux. Francis Thin, Lancaster, a Gentleman, painful and well deserving in his office whilst he lived. William Penson, Chester, 1. jacobi 1602: Samuel Thompson, Windsor. Ingenious Nicholas Charles (as Milles calls him) whose judicious knowledge in Pedigrees and Arms showed learning to live in Heraldry. William Penson, Lancaster, 10. Decemb. 1613. Thomas Knight, Chester. Sir Henry St. George, Richmond, was sent joint Ambassador with the Lord Spence, and Sir Peter Young, to invest the now King of Sweden with the Order of the Garter, who honoured him with the degree of Knighthood: and granted an honourable augmentation unto his Arms, being the three Crowns of Sweden. He was also employed into France, and from thence attending our now Queen when she came over, in the first year of his Majesty's Reign. Henry Chitting, Chester 1618. john Borough Mowbray, extraordinary, 23. Dec. 1623. and created the same day Norroy. Augustine Vincent, Windsor, who died the ... of ... 1625: Of whom I have spoken elsewhere, and whose loss I do still lament; He left to future posterity a Book which he called, A Discovery of Errors, published by Ralph Brooke, York Herald. William le Neve Mowbray Herald extraordinary. john Philipott, Somerset. William le Neve, aforesaid York. This William le Neve York Herald, was employed into France the first year of his Majesty, and from thence attended our Queen into England; who, with Sir Henry St. George, Richmond Herald, were royally rewarded by her Majesty, with the gift of a thousand French Crowns. He was also employed to attend upon his Majesty's Embassage which was sent in the year 1629. unto the French king Lewis the thirteenth, and at the Ceremonies done thereat, he there performed his office in his Coat of Arms, as appeareth in a French relation lately printed; at his return from thence the King rewarded him with a Chain of gold of good value, and a Medalle of his portraiture: And further gave him his Royal letters Mandatory, unto all his Officers and Subjects therein, signifying that (let me use part of the Kings own words) le Sieur Guillaum● le Neve Escuyer Herald Darmes du Roy de la grand Bretagne (nostre tr●scher, et tresamè bon frere et beau frere) par luy envoyè vers nous pour faire sa dicte charge D'Herault D'armes aux Ceremonies du serment de la paix faicte entre nous & nostre dict frere, de la quelle il sest dignement acquit●● a nostre contentement, seu retournant verse son Maistre. Nous voulo●s, nous mandons et tresexpressement enjoygnons par an presents signees de nostre main, etc. Commanding by the said Instrument all his said Officers and Subjects to give the said Herald all manner of aid, and assistance in his return, or not to molest or trouble him in his free passage or transportation of any of his goods. And therein also prayed, and required all Princes and States to do the like, as a due unto Heralds so employed: And as they would have him to do the like at their request. But no earthly powers can command the merciless ragings of the Sea. For the said Herald in his return was ship-wracked upon the coast of Dover, and very dangerously escaped with the loss of most part of his goods; excepting the foresaid Chain and Medalle which after two days remaining in the sea was washed up on shore, even in view of the place where he than remained. In this Catalogue I observe that Thomas Holinsworth, York Herald, and William Wriothesley, York Herald, (son of the foresaid Sir john Wriothesley Garter) and others are omitted, which with all other omissions in this particular discourse, I refer to the judicious reformation of the College of Heralds. Pursuivants of Arms, their names, surnames, and additions, from the first of Henry the fifth, to this present time, with their advancements, from Pursuivants Extraordinary, to Ordinary, from Ordinary, to Heralds, from Heralds to Kings of Arms, or otherwise: john Wrexworth, first Antilope Extraordinary, secondly, Blewmantle, thirdly, Exeter, fourthly Guyon, King of Arms. Nicholas Serby, Falcon Ext. Rouge-Croix Leopard, Herald of Arms: john Haswell, Wallingford, Blewmantle, Clarence. William Boys, Antelope extr. Rouge-Croix, Exeter. Giles Waster, Falcon extr. Rouge-Croix, Mowbray. john Ash●●●, Cadranexir, Blewmantle, Leopard. Thomas Moor Antelope extr. Blewmantle, Guyon. Thomas Brown Falcon extr. obijt. Roger Leigh, Wallingford Ro●ge-croix, Clarencieux. john writhe, or Wriothesley, here interred, Antelope extraordinary Rogue Croix, Leopard, Norroy, Garter. Thomas Collier Falcon extr. Blewmantle, Clarence, Ireland. john Mowbrey Cadran ext. Rogue Croix, Exeter, Clarentieux. Pursuivants of Arms created in the reign of Henry the Sixt. Robert Ashwell first Antelope extr. secondly, Rougecroix, thirdly, Windsor. William Haukeslow Wallingford, Blewmantle, Leopard, Guyon. john Horsley Falcon, Blewmantle, Mowbray. james Billet Antelope, Rougecroix, Chester. john Mallet Falcon, Rougecroix, Clarence. Richard Stanton, Wallingford, Blewmantle, Chester. Robert Durham Falcon, Roug●●roix, Exeter. Thomas Holme Falcon, Clarencieux. james colyer Cadra●, Blewmantle, Lancaster. john Ferrant Wallingford, Blewmantle, March. john Moor, Antelope, Rougecroix, Chester, Norroy. Roger Mallet Falcon, Blewmantle, Falcon Herald. Richard Ashwell Cadran, Rougecroix, Lancaster, Ireland. Thomas Tonge, Antelope, Rougecroix, Richmond, Norroy. Pursuivants of Arms created in the reign of Edward the Fourth. Henry Frank, first Comfort, secondly, Blewmantle, thirdly, York. William Carlisle, Falcon, Rougecroix, Richmond, Norroy. Richard Champney, Calais, Blewmantle, Falcon, Gloucester. Roger Stamford, Guynes, Rougecroix, Chester. Richard Slaske, Comfort, Rougecroix, Windsor. john Young, Guines, Blewmantle, Windsor, Norroy. Thomas Bevolt, Barwike, Rougecroix, Lancaster, Norroy, Clarencieux. Thomas Waters, Comfort, Rougecroix, Carlisle. Rowland Plainford, Calais, Blewmantle, York. Robert Browne, Guynes, Rougecroix, Richmond. Thomas Wall, Calais, Blewmantle, Richmond, Norroy. William jenning's, Berwick, Rougecroix Lancaster. Roger Bromley, Falcon, Blewmantle, Chester. john Waters, Roseblanch, Rougecroix, York. In the short reign of Edward the fifth, none were created. In the reign of Richard the Third, the Pursuivants were created. Thomas Frank, first Guines, secondly, Blewmantle. George Berrey, Comfort, Rouge-croix. Laurence Alford, Rose blanche, Blewmantle. In the time of Henry the Seventh, were created these following. William Tyndall first Guines, secondly, Rougedragon, thirdly, Lancaster. Ralph Lagysse, Calais, Portcullis, York. john joiner Comfort, Rougecro●●, Ri●hmond, Norroy. Thomas Hawley, Roschlanch, Carlil●, Norroy, Clarencieux: Thomas Hall, Berwicke, Rougecroix, Wi●dsore, Garter. Christopher Barker, Calais, Rougedragon, Richmond, Norroy, Garter. john Pond, Hames, Rouge-croix, Somerset. Allen Dagnall, Guines, Extr. Randalfe jackson Montorgill, Extr. Richard Ratcliffe, Barnes. Leonard Warcopp, Berwick. In the time of Henry created these. Thomas Hawley Rouge-Croix. Allen Dagnall first Portcullis in ordinary, secondly, York. Randolfe jackson, first Rougedragon in ordinary, secondly Chester. Leonard Warcopp Blewmantle in ordinary, Carlisle. Thomas Wriothesley, Wallingford, and next Garter and Knight. Charles Wriothesley Barwike, Rouge-Croix, Windsor. Richard Crook Nottingham, Rouge-Croix, Windsor. Thomas Mylner Calais, Rogue Drag●n, Lancaster. john Narboone, Blewmantle, Richmond. Thomas Traheyron, Nottingham, Portcullis, in ordinary, Somerset. Bartholomew Butler, Rouge-croix, York, Ulster. Richard Storke, Risebanke, obijt. Foulk ap Howell, Guines, Rougedragon, Lancaster. justinian Barker, Risebank, Rougecroix. Richard Ratcliffe, Calais, Blewmantle, Somerset. Gilbert Dethicke, Hames, Rougecroix, Richmond, Norroy, Garter. William Flower, Guines, Rouge-croix, Chester, Norroy. Laurence Dalton, Calais, Rougecroix, Richmond, Norroy. Edmund Atkinson, Hames, Blewmantle, Somerset. Simon Newbald, Bullen, obijt. Martin Marolfe, Calais, York: Nicholas Tubman, Hames, Lancaster. Richard Withers, Guines. Nicholas Narboone, Bullen. William Lambert, Risebanke, obijt. Nicholas Fellow, Calais, obijt. Henry Ray, Berwick obijt Henry Fellow, Guynes, obijt. Pursuivants created in the time of Edward the Sixt. Robert Fairy, Portcullis, obijt. Simond Newbald, Rougecroix, obijt. Martin Marolfe, Rougedragon, York. Nicholas Tubman, Rougecroix, Lancaster. Richard Withers, Portcullis. Nicholas Narboone, Blewmantle, Richmond, Ulster. In the reign of Queen Mary, these. Phelip Butler, Attelon, obijt. Hugh Cotgrave, Rougecroix, Richmond. john Cock Portcullis. William Colborne Rogue Dragon, York. john Hollinsworth, Risebanke, Blewmantle, obijt. Pursuivant created in the reign of Queen Elizabeth of famous memory, at whose Coronation, these Pursuivants, Heralds, and Kings, were Officers. Hugh Cotgrave, Rougecroix. Pursuivants. john Cock, Portcullis. Pursuivants. William Colborne, Rougedragon. Pursuivants. john Hollinsworth, Blewmantle. Pursuivants. Charles Wriothesley Windsor. Heralds. William Flower, Chester. Heralds. Edmund Atkinson, Somerset. Heralds. Martin Marolfe, York: Heralds. Nicholas Tubman, Lancaster. Heralds. Nicholas Narboone, Richmond. Heralds. Sir William Dethick Garter. Kings. William Harvey, Clarentieux. Kings. Laurence Dalton, Norroy. Kings. Bartholomew Butler, Ulster. Kings. Edward Merlin, Portcullis, obijt. Richard Turpin, first Blewmantle, secondly, Windsor. Ralph Langman, Portcullis, York. Robert Cook, Rose blanche, Chester, Clarencieux. john Hart, Chester. Nicholas Dethicke, Blewmantle, Windsor, obijt jan. 1596. Edmund Knight Rogue Dragon, Chester, Norroy. William Dethick Rougecroix, York, Garter. Robert Glover Portcullis, Somerset. Thomas Dawes Rougecroix obijt. Richard Lee Portcullis, Richmond, Clarencieux. Nicholas Paddy Rougedragon, Lancaster. Rafe Brooke Rougecroix, York. Humphrey Hales, Blewmantle, York. William Segar Portcullis, Somerset, Norroy, Garter and Knight. This Sir William Segar being Portcullis Pursuivant of Arms in the year 1586. was employed by Queen Elizabeth to attend the Earl of Leicester, being her Lieutenant, and governor General of her forces in the Low Countries. And being Somerset Herald was employed to attend the Embassage sent by the Earl of Shrewesbury to the French King, Henry the Fourth, to receive his Oath, and to invest him with the order of the Garter. And afterwards being Norroy was joined Ambassador with Roger, Earl of Rutland, to carry the Garter to Christian, the fourth King of Denmark. As also being Garter, he was employed in the like service, to Morris, the last Prince of Orange, deceased. And lately joined Ambassador with the now Viscount Dorchester, to carry the Garter to Henry, Prince of Orange: In all which services, he hath worthily demeaned himself. james Thomas, Blewmantle, Chester: john Raven, Rogue Dragon, Richmond. Thomas Lant, Portcullis, Windsor. Robert Treswell, Blewmantle, Somerset. Thomas Knight, Rougecroix, Chester. William Smith, Rougedragon. Samuel Thompson, Portcullis, Windsor. Mercury Patten, Blewmantle. Philip Holland, Rose, extraordinary, Portcullis. Pursuivants of Arms, created in the reign of our late dread Sovereign Lord, King james, viz. Philip Holland, Portcullis. john Guillam, Portesmouth, extr. Secondly, Rougecroix: This man is best known by an excellent Book which he writ, called The Display of Heraldry. Henry Saint George, Rougerose, ext. Blewmantle, Richmond. Samson, Leonard, Rougecroix, Blewmantle: john Philpot, Blanchlion extr. Rougedragon, Somerset. Augustine Vincent, Rougerose Extr. Rougedragon, Windsor. john Bradshaw Rougerose, Extr. Rougecroix Windsor. john Haml●ne Blanchlion, extr. Thomas Thompson Rougedragon. In the reign of our Sovereign Lord and King now living, these. Thomas Preston, Portcullis. Who in the year 1630. upon the birth of the right excellent Prince Charles, was by his Majesty employed to the Lords justices of the kingdom of Ireland with his Majesty's most gracious letters (according to the ancient custom) signifying to that Realm that most happy news. Upon whose arrival, the State there made great and large expressions of their joyful hearts for such welcome tidings, worthily receiving and bountifully rewarding the said Officer of Arms. George Owen, Rougecroix. William Ryley, Rougerose, extr. Created 31. julij 1630. Noblemen and Peers of this Land, in ancient time had their Heralds peculiar unto themselves, saith Milles. For Chester the Herald, and Falco the Pursuivant, lived at the command of the Prince of Wales, and served him: Humphrey Duke of Gloucester, and Earl of Penbroke, had the Herald Pembroke, his domestical Servant. Richard also Duke of Gloucester, having now obtained the kingdom, would needs have his Herald Gloucester to be called King of Arms for all Wales. Charles Brandon Duke of Suffolk, retained Suffolk Herald, and Marleon Pursuivant. The marquis of Dorcester, kept Groby Herald. The Earl of Northumberland, Northumberland Herald, and Esperance Pursuivant. Arthur Plantagenet Viscount Lisle, took unto himself Lisle Pursuivant, and Baron Hastings, Hasting Pursuivant. But the condition of the Servant is made better by the dignity of his Lord and Master, so these forenamed Heralds lived not with like authority or privileges with the Kings. And here now give me leave to speak a little more of the Aetymologie, Antiquity, and dignity of Heralds in general. Herald, The Aetymologie, Antiquity, and Dignity of Heralds. Herold, or Herald, dicitur quasi Herus altus, a high Master: For this Officer was of great authority amongst the Romans, who plurally called them Feciales, a faciendo, quod belli pacisque faciendae penes cos ius erat, or Fediales a faedere faciendo. And so with us the word signifieth an Officer at Arms, whose function is to denounce war, to proclaim peace, or otherwise to be employed by the King, in martial messages, or other business; and so they are called Internuncij vel pacis, vel belli ferendi. Messengers to carry and offer either war or peace. Herald, saith Verstegan, in the Title of Honours and Offices, is merely a Teutonic or Duytch word, and in that tongue and no other, the true Aetymologie thereof is only to be found. To begin then with the first syllable thereof, which is Here, though in composition abridged to Her, it is the true and ancient Teutonic word for an Army, the same that Exercitus is in Latin; and in that sense it is yet used in Germany. And whereas the Germans do now use Here also for Lord, yet anciently they so used it not. And although the Teutonic be more mixed with other strange languages; yet this word Here, as they use it for Lord or master, hath crept into their language from Herus in Latin, after that the Latin tongue became known unto them. A Healt in the Teutonick, is a most courageous person, a champion, or an especial challenger to a fight or combat, of the weapon that such sometime most used, called a Healtbard, because it was borne by a Healt, we yet, though corruptly, retain the name of Halberd, and the Netherlands make it Heilbard. Here-healt by abbreviation Herald, as also Herald, doth rightly signify, the Champion of the army. And (growing to be a name of Office) he that hath in the army the especial charge to challenge unto battle or combat: in which sense our name of Herald doth nearest approach unto Fecialis in Latin, as I have touched before. Herald's Priests Rosinus Ant. Rom. li. 3. c. 21. The Feciales amongst the Romans, saith one, were Priests. For Numa Pompilius (who flourished circa ann. mundi 3283.) the second King of the Romans, divided the institution of divine honour into eight parts, and so instituted and ordained eight several orders of Priests; and endowed the College of these Feciales or Heralds with the seventh part of this his sacred constitution. Their College at Rome was composed of twenty Heralds, chosen out of ancient and eminent families, the chief whereof (for excellence) was called Pater Patratus, because by being chief of that company, he ought to have children, and his own Father yet living. Their chief office was, To take care that the Romans did not commence, and make unjust war against any confederate City, and that if any such a city had committed any thing against the conditions of the confederacy, truce, and intercourse, than they were to go as Ambassadors, first to challenge their right in mild words; which if denied, then to proclaim war, Neque iustum aliquod bellum fore censebatur, nisi id per Feciales esset indictum: Neither was any war thought to be just and lawful, but that which was denounced by these Feciales, or Heralds. Heralds of France of noble descent. In France (saith Andrew Favine) Heralds have ever been in high esteem, and not only the King of Arms, Montioy, S. Denis, but also the other Heralds, and Pursuivants, were of noble extraction: and Montioy could not be admitted without making proof of his Nobleness by three razes, as well of his Father's stock, as by his mother's side. There was two thousand pounds of rents in Lands and free tenure, allowed for the said Montioy particularly, and a thousand pounds of annual pension, besides other rights. As for the other Heralds, they have a thousand pounds in pension, with other rights and privileges. Now for such rights and privileges as were granted to kings of Arms and Heralds, some do ascribe them to the King and Emperor Charlemaigne: others to Alexander the Great of Macedon, and others to the Emperor of Germany, Charles king of Bohemia, fourth of that name, nourished from his youth in the Court of the Father of Chivalry, Philip de Valois, king of France, sixth and last of that name, as here followeth the tenure in these words. The Privileges granted to Kings, and Heralds of Arms, translated out of the French in the Theatre of Honour. My Soldiers, you are and shall be called Heralds, Companions for kings, and judges of crimes committed by Noblemen; and arbitratours of their quarrels and differences. You must live hereafter exempted from going any more to war, or military factions. Council kings for the best, the benefit of the weal public, and for their Honour and Royal dignity. Correct all matters vile and dishonest: favour widows, secure orphans, and defend them from all violence. Assist with your counsel such Princes and Lords in whose Courts you shall abide, and freely and without fear, demand of them whatsoever is needful for you, as food, raiment, and defraying. If any one of them shall deny you, let him be infamous, without glory or honour, and reputed as criminal of high treason. In like manner also, have you an especial care, to keep yourselves from vilifying your noble exercise, and the Honour wherewith you ought to come near us at all times. See there be no entrance into Prince's Courts, either of drunkenness, ill speaking, flattery, babbling indiscreetly, ianglery, buffonnerie, and such other vices, which soil and shame the reputation of men. Give good example every where, maintain equity, and repair the wrongs done by great men to their inferiors. Remember what privileges we have granted you, in recompense of the painful travels in war, which you endured with us. And let not the Honours which we have bestowed on you, be converted to blame and infamy by dishonest living: the punishment whereof we reserve to ourself, and to the Kings of France our Successors. Seven Danish Kings, besides some of Norway, and Sweden, have had for their proper appellation the name of Herald, or Harold, which is all one with Herald, saith Verstegan. So honourable was it accounted of in old time, that so many Kings thereby were called, in regard as it appeareth, that themselves might be honoured and respected as the most courageous of the army. Heralds (saith Stow) (out of an old History, Stow in the life of Brute. written above six hundred years since, which he found in the Revestrie or Treasury of Saint Paul's Church) be they which our Elders were wont to call Heroes, that is to say, those which were greater, or surpassing all men in Majesty, and yet inferior to the Gods. For, whom the people of antiquity did perceive to be notable, and surmounting all others in his acts and feats, renowned in virtues, and friendly or gracious unto them; him would they magnify, and exalt in the highest degree, and as it were, with their good words make him cousin to jove the omnipotent. Placing such amongst the Gods, if it so were, that they had wrought some miraculous feat above the common course of Nature. But if there were no such miraculous or wonderful deeds, but that through their virtues they seemed wonderful and honourable, then thought they to call such persons, not altogether Gods, nor yet simply men, but invented out a mean word and name for them, call them Heroes, as it were halfgods, and of this word Heroes, or Heros, groweth by corruption of use this name Herald. In the same place he proves that Heralds here in England were as ancient as the days of Brute (who flourished above eleven hundred years before the birth of Christ) who bore (saith he) Gules, two Lions rampant, endorsed Or, according to this piece out of Hardings' Chronicle. The Arms of Brute. He bore of Goulis two liones of gold Country Rampant, with gold only crowned, Which kings of Troy in battle barefull bold. Neither can it be justly said, for all this, that Heralds were not known nor in request in this kingdom, but since the time of Brute. For even from the instant, that the descendants of Adam were distinguished into Nobles and Yeomen; there have been combats, battles, and encounters, and consequently Heralds, derived from the body of Nobility. Now at the length let me turn back to the foresaid defunct Sir john Wriothesley, to whom, and to the rest of the King's Heralds and Pursuivants of Arms; king Richard the third in the first year of his reign, granted and gave by his letters Patents, Cold Harber the Herald's College. all that message with the appurtenances called Cold-Harber, in the Parish of All Saints the little in London; freeing them à Subsidijs, theolonijs, & omnibus Reipub. muneribus: Dated at Westminster the second of March, without fine or fee. How the said Heralds departed therewith (saith Stow) I have not read: but in the reign of Henry the eight, the Bishop of Durhams' house, near Charing Cross, being taken into the King's hand; Cuthbert Tunstall, Bishop of Durham, was lodged in this Cold-Harber. But in my judgement I still digress, or at leastwise drive off my Reader over long from the knowledge of the time of this man's death; which I cannot set down neither certainly: yet I gather by circumstances, that it should be about the latter end of the reign of king Hen. the seventh. Eleanor Lady Wriothesley. Here lieth buried by her husband, Eleanor, the second wife of the foresaid Sir john Wriothesley. joan Wriothesley. Here lieth buried joan wife to Thomas Wriothesley, son to the said Sir john Wriothesley. Io. Wriothesley. Here lieth john Wriothesley the younger, son to Sir john Wriothesly and Eleanor, with others of that family, mentioned by Stow in his Survey of London. Sir Hen. Grey Reginald Lord Grey, Earl of Kent. This Church is likewise much honoured by the Sepultures of Sir Henry Grey knight, son and heir to George Grey, Earl of Kent: as also by Reginald Grey, Earl of Kent. Of which (their Funerals being so near these times) in another place. S. Benet Paul's Wharfe. Sir Will. Cheyney and Margaret his wife. In this Church lie entombed the bodies of Sir William Cheyney knight, and Dame Margaret his wife, which Sir William Cheyney deceased, Ann. 1422. In this Parish and partly (as I take it) in Saint Peter's the little, is a fair house, sometime (belonging to the Stanleys'; upon the outward wall whereof are embossed the Arms, or rather, if you will, the legs of the Isle of Man; for that the Stanleys', honoured with the title of Earls of Derby, were commonly called Kings of Man. This house was built by Thomas Stanley, first of that surname, Earl of Derby, and so for a long time it was called Derby House, but at length it being in the tenure of Sir Richard Sackuile knight, fallen by mortgage unto him, for which mortgage, Thomas Howard Duke of Norfolk, out of his affection to the office of Arms, satisfied the said Sir Richard; who thereupon passed it over to Q. Marry, and at the instant request of the said Duke, she by her Charter granted it to Sir Gilbert Dethicke, as then Garter, principal King of Arms, who lieth buried in this Church; Thomas Hauley, Clarencieux, king of Arms of the south parts, William Harvey, Norroy, king of Arms of the north parts; and to the other Heralds and Pursuivants of Arms (expressing their titles and order) qui pro tempore fuerint, The Heralds Office. in perpetuum; ut essent unum corpus corporatum in re, facto, & nomine: habeantque successionem perpetuam, nec non quoddam sigillum common. To the end that the said King of Arms, Heralds, and Pursuivants of Arms, The body corporate of the Heralds. and their successors might (at their liking) dwell together, and at convenient times, meet together, speak, confer, and agree among themselves, for the good government of their faculty, and their Records might be more safely kept, etc. Dated the 18. day of july, 1555. Philip and Mary, the first and third year. This Corporation consists of thirteen in number, whose names and titles at this time, viz. Anno 1631. are as followeth. Sir William Segar Knight, Garter, Principal King of Arms. Sir Richard S. George, Knight, Clarencieux. Sir john Borough Knight. Norroy, Provincial Kings: William Penson, Lancaster, Sir Henry S. George, Knight, Richmond. Henry Chitting, Chester, john Philipot Somerset. William le Neve, York. john Bradshaw, Windsor. Heralds. These six Heralds, Henry Spelman. Gloss lit. H. non ab Officiorum praestantia, sed è creationis cuiusque antiquitate locos obtinet: not from the excellency of their office, but according to the priority of their creation, take pre-eminence. And to make up the number, there are four Pursuivants in this College, helpers and furtherers (likewise) in matters of Heraldry, although of an inferior Class, viz. Rouge-cross, so called of the red cross, by which Saint George the Tutelar Saint of all Englishmen is famozed. Blewmantle, so called of a sky-coloured coat of Arms, Francica maiestatis, of a Frenchlike Majesty assumed by K. Edward the third. Rougedragon, of a red Dragon sustaining the Shield Royal of the English, instituted by King Henry the seventh. Port cullis, of the Port cullis which the said Henry the seventh used in his Cognisance: If you would know more of this College, may it please you peruse Sir Henry Spilmans glossary, litera. H. Saint Michael's Querne. Here lieth interred the body of john Leland, or Leyland, Native of this honourable City of London, john Leland the Antiquary brought up in the Universities of England and France, where he greatly profited in all good learning and languages: Keeper of the Libraries he was to King Henry the Eight, in which Office he chiefly applied himself to the study of Antiquities; wherein he was so laborious and exquisite, that few, or none, either before or since, may be with him compared: which will best appear by his New years gift to the said King Henry, written in Latin, and translated into English by his contemporary companion, john Bale, and by him entitled. The loboryouse journey and serche of johan Leylande, for England's antiquities, Lelandi Strena, ●●lands New years gift. given of him as a New years gift to King Henry the eight in the thirty seventh year of his Reign. The study of Antiquity in Hen. the eight. Vbi tuae celsit udini visum fuit, etc. so it begins in Latin. Where as it pleased your highness' upon very just consideratyons to encourage me, by the authority of your most gracious commission, to peruse and diligently to serche all the Libraries of Monasteries and Colleges of this your noble Realm, to the intent that the Monuments of ancient Writers, as well of other nations, as of your own province, might be brought out of deadly darkness, to lyvely light, and to receive like thanks of their posterity, as they hoped for at such time, as they employed their long and great studies to the public wealth. The ca●e King Hen had of Religion. Yea, and furthermore, that the holy scripture of God might both be sincerely taught and learned, all manner of superstition and crafty coloured doctrine of a rout of roman Bishops totally expelled out of this your most Catholic realm. I think it now no less, than my very duty, briefly to declare to your Majesty, what fruits have sprung of my laborious journey and costly enterprise, both roted upon your infinite goodness and liberality, qualities, right highly to be esteemed in all Princes, and most specially in you, as naturally your own weal known proprietes. The works of ancient Writers saved and conserved. First I have conserved many good authors, the which otherwise had been like to have perished, to no small incommodity of good letters. Of the which, part remain in the most magnificent libraries of your royal Palaces. Part also remain in my custody, whereby I trust right shortly, so to describe your most noble Realm, and to publish the Majesty of the excellent acts of your progenitors, The King's Libraries augmented. hitherto sore obscured, both for lack of emprinting of such works as lay secretly in corners. And also because men of eloquence hath not enterprised to set them forth in a flourishing stile, in some times passed not commonly used in England of Writers, The plain ●●le and form of ancient Writers. otherwise weal learned, and now in such estimation, that except truth be delicately clothed in purpure, her written verities can scant find a Reader. That all the world shall evidently perceive, that no particular region, may justly be more extolled, than yours for true nobility and virtues at all points renowned. Farther, more part of the exemplaries, curiously sought by me, and fortunately found in sundry places of this your dominion, hath been imprinted in Germany, and now be in the presses chiefly of Frobenus, that not alonely the Germans, but also the italians themselves, that count as the Greeks ded full arrogantly, all other Nations to be barbarous and unlettered, saving their own, shall have a direct occasion openly of force to say: That Britannia prima fuit parens, Britain, the Mother of worthy men, and excellent wits. altrix (addo hoc etiam & iure quidem optimo) conseruatrix cum virorum magnorum tum maxime ingeniorum: Britain was a mother, a nurse, and a maintainer, not only of worthy men, but also of most excellent wits. And that profit hath risen by the aforesaid journey, in bringing full many things to light, as concerning the usurped authority of the Bishop of Rome and his complices, to the manifest and violent derogation of Kingly dignity: I refer myself most humbly to your most prudent, learned, and high judgement, This volume he called Antiphilachia, written against the ambitious Empire, or usurped authority Reiall of the Bishop of Rome. Albertus' Pighius, a Canon sometime in the Cathedral Church of Vtrecht in the Low Countries. to discern my diligence in the long Volume, wherein I have made answer for the defence of your supreme dignity, all only lening to the strong pillar of holy scripture, against the whole College of the Romanists, cloaking their crafty affections and arguments, under the name of one poor Pighius of Vltraiect in Germany, and standing to them as to their only anchor, hold against tempests that they know will arise, if truth may be by licens let in to have a voice in the general counsel. Yet herein only I have not pitched the supreme work of my labour, whereunto your grace, most like a kingly Patron of all good learning, ded animate me. But also considering and expending with myself, how great a number of excellent godly wits and writers, learned with the best, as the times served, hath been in this your region; Not only at such times as the Roman Emperors had recourse to it, but also in those days that the Saxons prevailed of the Britain's, Lelands' affection toward his Country. and the Normans of the Saxons, could not but with a fervent zeal, and honest courage, commend them to memory Else, alas, like to have been perpetually obscured, or to have lightly remembered as uncertain shadows. Wherefore I knowing by infinite variety of books, and assiduouse reading of them, Four Books of illustrious men, or of the British writers. who hath been learned, and who hath written from time to time in this realm, have digested into four books, the names of them, with their lives and monuments of learning. And to them added this title. De viris illustribus, following the profitable example of Jerome, Gannadie, Cassiodore, Severayne, and Trittemie, a late Writer. But always so handling the matter, that I have more exspaciated in this camp, than they ded, as in a thing that desired to be somewhat at large, and to have ornature. The first book beginning at the Druids, is deducted unto the time of the coming of S. Augustine into England. The second is from the time of Augustine, unto the advente of the Normans. The third from the Normans, to the end of the most honourable reign of the mighty, famous, and prudent Prince, Henry the seventh your Father. The fourth beginneth with the name of your Majesty, whose glory in learning, is to the world so clearly known, that though among the lives of other learned men, I have accurately celebrated the names of Bladud, Learned Princes. Mulmutius, Constantinus Magnus, Sigebert, Alfridus, Alfridus magnus, Athelsta●e, and Henry the first, Kings, and your progenitors. And also Ethelward, second son to Alfride the great, Humfryde, Duke of Gloucester, and Tipetote Earl of Worcestre, yet conferred with your grace, they serve as small lights (if I may freely say my judgement, your high modesty not offended) in respect of the day star. The wits of the British and English writers exercised in all kinds of good literature. Now farther to insinuate to your grace, of what matters the Writers, whose lives I have congested into four books, hath treated of. I may right boldly say; that beside the cognition of the four tongues, in the which, par● of them hath excelled, that there is no kind of liberal science, or any feat concerning learning, in the which they have not showed certain arguments o● great felicity of wit. Yea, and concerning the interpretation of holy Scripture, both after the ancient form, and since the scholastical trade, they have reigned as in a certain excellency. A wonderful great number of Historiographers of British affairs. And as touching historical knowledge, there hath been to the number of a full hundreth or more, that from time to time hath with great diligence, and no less faith, would to God with like eloquence, perscribed the acts of your noble predecessors, and the fortunes of this your Realm, so incredibly great, that he that hath not scene, and throughly red their works, can little pronounce in this part. Wherefore, after that I had prepended the honest and profitable studies of these Historiographers, I was totally inflamed with a love, to see throughly all those parts of this your opulent and ample realm, Lelands' laborious journey throughout all England. that I had red of in the v Writers. In so much that, all my other occupations intermitted, I have so travelled in your dominions, both by the see coasts and the middle parts, sparing neither labour nor costs, by the space of these six years past, that there is almost neither cape nor bay, haven, creak, or peer, river, or confluence of rivers, breeches, washeses, lakes, meres, fenny waters, mountains, valleys, mores, hethes, forestes, woods, cities, burges, castles, principal manor places, monasteries, and colleges; but I have scene them, and noted in so doing a whole world of things very memorable. Thus instructed, I trust shortly to see the time, that like as Carolus Magnus had among his treasures, three large notable tables of silver, richly enamelled; one of the site and description of Constantinople, The description of all England in a quadrate table of silver. another of the site and figure of the magnificent city of Rome, and the third of description of the world. So shall your Majesty have this your world and empery of England, so set forth in a quadrate table of silver, if God send me life to accomplish my beginning, that your Grace shall have ready knowledge at the first sight of many right delectable, fruitful, and necessary pleasures, by contemplation thereof, as often as occasion shall move you to the sight of it. And because that it may be more permanent, and farther known, then to have it engraved in silver or brass; A Book of the topography of England. I intend by the leave of God, within the space of twelve months following, such a description to make of your realm in writing, that it shall be no mastery after, for the Graver or Painter to make the like by a perfect example. Yea, and to wade farther in this matter, where as now almost no man can weal guess at the shadow of the ancient names of havens, rivers, promontories, hills, The names of several nations, Cities, and great towns, etc. of Britain in old time, such as Cesar, Tacitus, Ptolimey, & other Authors have made mention of, restored together with the later and modern names. woods, Cities, Towns, Castles, and varyete of kinds of people, that Cesar, Livi, Strabo, Diodorus, Fabius, Pictor, Pomponius Mela, Plinius, Cornelius Tacitus, Ptolomeus, Sextus Rufus, Ammianus Marcellinus, Solinus, Antoninus, and divers other make mention of. I trust so to open this window, that the light shall be seen, so long, that is to say, by the space of a whole thousand years stopped up, and the old glory of your renowned Britain to reflorish through the world. This done, I have matter of plenty, already prepared for this purpose, that is to say, to write an History, to the which I intend to ascribe this title, De Antiquitate Britannica, or else Civilis Historia. And this work I intend to divide into so many books, as there be Shires in England, and shires and great dominions in Wales. So that I esteem that this Volume will include a fifty books, Of the Antiquity of Britain, or of Civil History fifty Books. whereof each one severally shall contain the beginnings, increases, and memorable acts of the chief Towns and Castles of the Province allotted to it. Then I intend to distribute into six books, such matter as I have already collected, Six Books of the Islands adjacent to England. concerning the Isles adjacent to your noble realm, and under your subjection. Whereof three shall be of these Isles, Vecta, Mona, and Menavia, sometime kyngedomes. And to superadd a work as an ornament and a right comely garland to the enterprises aforesaid, I have selected stuff to be distributed into three books, Three books of the Nobility of Britain. the which I purpose thus to entitle, De Nobilitate Britannica. Whereof the first shall declare the names of Kings and Queens, with their children, Dukes, Earls, Lords, Captains and rulers in this realm to the coming of the Saxons and their Conquest. The seconde shall be of the Saxons. The thirde from the Normans to the reign of your most noble grace, descending lineally of the britain, Saxon, and Norman kings. So that all noble men shall clearly perceyve their lineal parentele. Now, His conclusion a delectabili & utili. if it shall be the pleasure of Almighty God, that I may live to perform these things that be already begun, and in a great forwardness, I trust that this your realm shall so we'll be known, ones painted with his native colours, that the renown thereof shall give place to the glory of no other region. And my great labours and costs, proceeding from the most abundant fountain of your infinite goodness towards me your poor scholar and most humble servaunt, shall be evidently scene to have not only pleased, but also profited the studious, gentle, and equal readers. This is the brief declaration of my laborious journey, taken by motion of your highness', so much studying at all hours, about the fruitful preferment of good letters, and ancient virtues. Christ continue your most royal estate and the prosperity, Commune vo●●● with succession in kingly dignity, of your dear and worthily beloved son Prince Edward, granting you a numbered of Princely sons, by the most gracious, benign, and modest Lady your Queen Cataryne. johannes Leylandus Antiquarius. john Bale, in his declaration upon this Treatise, saith that the next year after that Leyland presented this New-year's Gift to king Henry, the said king deceased, and Leyland by a most pitiful accident fell besides his wits; which was the cause (belike) that these his works were never imprinted; howsoever at this day, the written copies thereof are in some private men's custody; which learned Camden saw, as he himself acknowledgeth, when he compiled that matchless chorographical description of Great Britain. But those learned Authors which Leyland gathered together in his journey, and which he conserved to augment the King's Libraries and his own; are, I doubt, by the iniquity of times, quite lost and perished. And here I might take occasion to speak of the great spoil of old Books, and all other reverend Antiquities at and upon the suppression of Abbeys, and reformation of Religion. As also of the due praise belonging to such men in these days, who like Sir Robert Cotton with labour and charges, Sir Rob. Cotton knight and Baronet. collect, and safely preserve these ancient Monuments of learning for the public good and commodity of the whole kingdom. But of this when I come to that inestimable rich Treasury, Sir Tho. Bodley knights. that famous and renowned Library in the University of Oxford, whose principal Founder was Sir Thomas Bodley knight, deceased. To return then to our Antiquary Leyland; Many other works, (saith Bale, in the foresaid declaration) hath Leyland written, of whom some are imprinted, as the Assertion of king Arthure, the Birth of Prince Edward, the Song of the Swan, the decease of Sir Thomas Wiet, the winning of Bullein, and the commendation of Peace. Some are not yet printed, as his Colleccyons of the bishops of britain, of the Vniversytees of the same, of the orygynoll and increase of good learnings there: Of his Epigrams and Epitaphs, and the life of king Sygebert, with many other more. He died frantic the 18. day of April, Anno redemptionis humanae, 1552. Of whom this Ogdoasticke following was composed, either by himself, as the stile showeth, or by some other in his name, saith Pitseus. Pit. Aetas 16. Quantum Rhenano debet Germania docto, Tantum debebit terra Britanna mihi. Ille suae gentis ritus, & nomina prisca, Aestivo fecit lucidiora die. Ipse antiquarum rerum quoque magnus amator, Ornabo patriae lumina clara meae. Quae cum prodierint niveis inscripta tabellis, Tum testes nostrae sedulitatis erunt: These verses were annexed to his Monument, as I have it by tradition. Io. Leland the Elder. This our Leland is called by writers Lelandus junior, in regard of another john Leland, who flourished in the time of king Henry the sixth; taught a School in Oxford, and writ certain Treatises of the Art of Grammar. Which Leland, saith Pits, was tum in versu, tum in prosa multo elegantior, & in omni Latinitate purior, tersior, nitidior, quam ferebat illius at at is communis consuetudo: As well in verse as prose, much more elegant, and in all the Latin tongue more pure, polished, and neat, than the custom of that age did commonly afford. Whereupon this rhyming Hexameter was made to his commendation. Vt Rosa slos slorum, sic Leland Grammaticorum. But to take my leave of both these Lelands, and go forward to what ancient Inscriptions I have sometime found in this Church. blessed Lady mother and virgin, Elis. West. have mercy and petty on ye soul of your power maid Elisabyth West, yat here lieth buried, ye which deceased ye year of our Lord, M. ccccc.vii. ye seven of Octobre. O matter Dei miserere mei. Amen. Hic ..... Rogerus Woodcocke civis et Hat. London, Rog. Woodcock and joan his wife. & joanna uxor eius .... M. ccccxxii. Qui venisti redimere perditos, noli dampnare redemptos. Epitaphs and Inscriptions within certain Churches of this City, collected about some thirty seven years since, by Robert Treswell Esquire, somersault Herald, lately deceased. Of which few or none are to be found at this present time. Saint botolph's Aldersgate. Hic iacet Katherine Cavendish quondam uxor Thome Cavendishe, Catherine Cavendish. nuper de Cavendish in Com. Suffolk Armig. que obijt xv. die Septemb. Anno Dom. M. cccc.lxxxxix. Cuius anima requiescat in pace. Hic iacet Alicia nuper uxor Thome Cavendish de Cauendish et de Scaccario excellentissimi Principis Domini Henrici viij. que quidem obijt xij novemb. Ann. Dom. M. ccccc.xv. Cuius anime propitietur Altissimus. Alice Cavendish Amen. Here lieth buried under this Stone Margaret Cavendish, Marg Cavendish late wife of William Cavendish, which William was one of the sons of the above named Alice Cavendish. Which Margaret died the xuj day of june, in the year of our Lord God, M. cccccxl. whossoul jesus pardon. Amen. Heaven bliss be here meed Yat for the sing prey or read. Cavendish is a Town or Village in Suffolk, wherein that valiant Gentleman john Cavendish Esquire, who slew that Arch-rebel Watt Tyler, Anno Reg. Regis, Ric: 2.4. was borne; Lib. Esiens'. in bib. Cott. which fact was not long unrevenged, for in the same year, the Rebels of Norfolk and Suffolk, under the conduct of their Captain, Sir john Wraw (a detestable Priest) took Sir john Cavendish knight, cousin to the foresaid john, chief justice of the King's Bench, and beheaded him, together with Sir john of Cambridge, Prior of Saint Edmundsbury, whose heads they set on the Pillory in the Market place. Here resteth the body of William Burd Esquyr, Will. Burd Clerk of the Pipe. late Clerk of the Pipe and Privy Seal, which paid the general tribute of Nature, divided from the mundane vexations by natural death the xv day of August, the xxi year of king Henry the eight. cowel. lit. C. Clerk of the Pipe (saith the Interpreter) is an Officer in the King's Exchequer, who having all accounts and debts due unto the king, delivered, and drawn down out of the Remembrancers Offices, chargeth them down into the great Roll. Who also writeth summons unto the Sheriff to levy the said debts, upon the goods and chattels of the said debtors: and if they have no goods, then doth he draw them down to the Lord Treasurer's Remembrancer, to write Extreats against their Land. The ancient Revenue of the Crown remaineth in charge before him, and he seeth the same answered by the Fermers and Shiriffeses to the king. He maketh a charge to all Shiriffeses of their summons of the Pipe and Greenewax, and seeth it answered upon their accounts. He hath the engrossing of all Leasses of the King's lands: and it is likely that it was at the first called, and still hath denomination of Pipe, and Clerk of the Pipe, and Pipe Office, because their Records that are registered in their smallest Rolls, are altogether like Organ Pipes: but their great Roll called the Great Roll, Ann. 37. Ed. 3. ca 4. is of another form. Clerk of the Privy Seal. Clericus Privati Sigilii, or Clerk of the privy Seal, is an Officer (whereof there be four in number) that attendeth the Lord Keeper of the privy Seal, or if there be none such, upon the principal Secretary, writing and making out all things, that be sent by warrant from the Signet to the Privy Seal, and are to be passed to the Great Seal; as also to make out (as they are termed) Privy Seals, upon any especial occasion of his Majesty's affairs, for loan or lending of money, or such like. Of this Officer and his function, you may read the Statute, Ann. 27. Hen. 8. cap. 11. Io. Hartishorne Sergeant at Arms, and Agnes his wife. Hic iacet johannes Hartishorne, quondam Seruiens Domini Regis ad Arma qui obijt viij die Martij Ann. Dom. M. ccccxxix. & Agnes uxor eius, que obiit ..... M. cccc. The office of Sergeants at Arms is to attend the person of the King, to arrest Traitors, or great men that do or are like to contemn messengers of ordinary condition for other causes; and to attend the Lord high Steward of England, The office of Sergeant at Arms. cowel lit. ●. sitting in judgement upon any Traitor, and such like. Of these by the Statute Ann. 13. Ric. 2. cap. 6. there may not be above thirty in the Realm. There be also two of these Sergeants of the Parliament, one of the upper, and another of the lower house, whose office seemeth for the execution of such commandments, especially touching the apprehension of any offender, as either house shall think good to enjoin them. There is one Sergeant at Arms that belongeth to the Chancery, who is called Sergeant of the Mace, as the rest may be, because they carry Maces by their office: He of the Chancery attendeth the Lord Chancellor or Lord Keeper in that Court. Another in like manner attends the Lord Treasurer. George..::▪ Lord Mayor, joan and Marg. his wives. Of your cherite prey for the souls of George. ... Mayor of London, and johan and Margaret his wyffs, which .... deceased..:. M. ccccc.xxxvi on whose sowls ..... By the computation of years I find no such man by the Christian name of George, to have been Lord Mayor about this time, excepting George Monox; who lieth buried at Waltham Stow. Hic iacet johannes Kirkham nuper Civis & Attornatus London, john Kirkham and Elis. his wife. & Elisabetha uxor eius qui quidem Iohannes obijt primo die Septembris .... M. cccc.xxvij. quorum animabus ... Here lieth john Mynne Esquyr, john Mynne, late mastyr of the Kings' wooddies of his new granted Court of General Surveyors of his lands, and Auditor of diverse and sundry Revenues of the same Courts which desessyd the xv. they of Decemb. M. ccccc.xlii. on whose soul, jesus have mercy. diverse other Inscriptions he collected of persons here interred about the beginning of Queen Elizabeth's reign, which are not as now visible. In this Church was sometime (saith Stow) a Brotherhood of Saint Fabian and Sebastian, founded in the year 1377. the 51. of Edward the third, and confirmed by Henry the fourth, in the sixth of his reign. Henry the sixth in the 24. of his reign, The foundation of the Brotherhood in S. Botolp●s. to the honour of the Trinity, gave licence to Dame joan Astley, sometime his Nurse, to Robert Cawood (Clerk of the Pipe, who lieth buried in this Church, but of whom no remembrance is remaining) and Thomas Smith, to found the same a Fraternity, perpetually to have a Master and two Custos with Brethren and Sisters, etc. This Botherhood was endowed with lands, more than thirty pound by the year, and was suppressed, Edward the sixth. Saint Marry magdalen's Milkestreete. Of your charity, pray for the soul of Edward Murell ... Edward Murell and Martha his wife. and Martha his wyff, which Edward deceased the ... day of ... Of your cherite, prey for the souls of William Campion, William Campion and Anne his wife. Citizen and Grocer of London, sometime one of the Masters of the Bridghouse, and Alys and Anne his wifes. The which William deceased the xvii. of December, M. ccccc.xxxi. Anne the .... day of M. ccccc.xx. on whose souls jesus have pit. Amen. Prey for the soul of Henry Cantlow, Henry Cantlow. Mercer, Merchant of the Staple at Callys, the builder of this Chapel, wherein he lieth buried, M. cccc.lxxxxv. Here lieth also buried in this Church, Sir William Cantlow Knight, Sir William Cantlow, knight and Sheriff of London, in the year, 1448. who died in the year, 1462. Cantlow, sive de Cantelupo, an ancient Family, of great repute in many places of this Kingdom, of which hereafter. Hic iacet johannes Olney quondam civis et Mercerus, john Olney, Lord Maior▪ Aldermannus & Maior Civitatis London qui obijt die Martis xxiv. die octobris M cccc. liiij. cuius anime propitietur Deus. This john was the son of john Olney of the City of Coventrie, saith Stows Survey. Orate pro animabus Thome Muschampe ........ Tho. Muschampe This Thomas Muschampe was Sheriff of this City in the year, 1463. Saint Michael Bashishaw. Sir William Yerford, Lord Maior, and Elis. his wife. Here undyr lieth buried, the bodies of Sir james Yerford, Knight, Mercer, and somtym Mayor of this City of London, and of Dame Elisabeth his wife; the which Sir james deceased the xxii. day of june, M. ccccc.xxvi. and the said Elis. deceased the viii. day of August, M. ccccc. xlviii. on whose souls. .... He was Lord Maior, Anno 1519. from his time onward (saith Stow) the Majors of London (for the most part) were knighted by the courtesy of the Kings, and not otherwise. He was the son of William Yarford of Kidwelley in Wales: He with his Lady lie buried under a fair Tomb, kept well in repair, in a Chapel on the north side of the Choir, built by himself: but this you may read in Stow, and it might have been very well here omitted. Sir Roger Ree ●night, and Rose his wife. Hic iacet Rogerus Ree (or Roe) miles et Rosa uxor eius qui quidem Rogerus obijt xviij. die mensis januarij, Anno. Dom. M. cccc.lxxix. cuius anime .... Tho. Bromflit. Hic iacet Thomas Bromfleet Armiger. qui obijt nineteen. die Maij, M. cccc.vi. cuius anime .... Andrew Chyett. Hic iacet Andreas Chyett quondam Sementarius istius civitatis qui obijt xiv. die julij ..... M. cccc.lxxxxviij. cuius anime propitietur Altissimus. Amen. Hic iacet Thomas battle Armiger junior qui obijt xi. die mensis Maij, M. cccc.xxxiiij. cuius anime. ... john Martin, Lord Maior, and ●atherine his wife. Here lieth the body of john Martin, late Citizen, and Mayor of the Cite of London, and Katherine his wyff, whose children with their here been fixed. The which john Martin departed out of this present life, the last day of December, in the year of our Lord, M. cccc.lxxi. and the said Katherine, the xx. day of August, in the year of our Lord God, M. cccc.lxxxvii. on whose souls jesus have mercy. The names of his Children. Hugh, Reignold, Lionel, Francis, William, john, Austin, Richard, john, Angelet, Elisabeth. There remaineth in one of the windows of this Church, a beautiful representation of a man in his complete armour, with his coat armour on his breast, and his wife's portraiture on the other side, with her own honorary ensigns, also in nature of an empalement with his: which by the inscription well answering to the exotic form of their attiring, appeareth to have been set up in memory of Adrian D'Ewes, a lineal descendant of the ancient family of Des Ewes, Dynasts or Lords of the dition of Kessell in the Duchy of Gelderland, who came first thence into England in the time of King H. 8. (when that Duchy had been much ruined, wasted, and depopulated by the intestine wars there raised, and continued between Charles, * Eliae Reusneri Basil. Geneal. Auctuarium edit. Francosurt 1592. pag. 102. History general of the Netherlands, lib. 5 pag 227. impr an Dom. 1609. Duke thereof, and Philip the Archduke, and Charles the 5. his son) which said Adrian brought over with him, and so preserved to his posterity a just series in the Latin tongue, of three of his ascendant Ancestors, recorded in Parchment, with a curious and antique depiction of their coat armours, with those of their several wives,) of which I have seen the ectypum) as also a very ancient seal in silver, with his coat-armour upon it (still remaining with this * Penes Simonds D' Ewes Equitem auratum ab●epotem dicti A●rini family) bearing the teste of that age as may be gathered from the very exoticknesse of the workmanship. The last will or testament of this very Adrian, is extant upon * In Registro Curiae Dum Archidiaconi Lond. Libr. 4. sol. 34. a & b. record, in which not only Alice his wife (who lastly married one William Ramsey) is mentioned, but his four sons also, viz. Geerardt (misnamed there Garret) james, Peter and Andrew, are all nominated. And as touching Gee the said Geerardt (whose posterity in the male line is now seated at Stow-Hall in the County of Suffolk) his inquisition taken after his death, is likewise * Escaety de a. 34. Eliz. part 1. n. 11. Essex in Archivis. recorded, and his Epitaph with the form of his grave-stone, fully delineated, page 653. foregoing. The portraitures themselves which I find in this window, with the succinct and pithy inscription under them, cannot without injury to this family, be omitted (each of the persons there represented, having lived in the times of H. 7. and H. 8.) which therefore I have exposed to the view of the more judicious reader in this ensuing exact draught and delineation of them both. Andrianus D'Ewes exillustri faminis de Kessel in Ducatu Gelriae progdiarum pertoesus in Angliam Alienige H. 8. recessit: foeminamque An-Rauenscroftorum familiâ oriundam in nuit silios, Geerardt, jacobum, Petrum, sudore Anglico mense julij Ann. 5. E. sacratae terrae huius Ecclesiae inhumaperuixit annis xxviii & ultimum natu- Dom. MDLXXIX. & tumulatur nestrâ, postquam viderat quatuor Re- Philippum & ix. Reginas regni eiusdem Regis, H. 8. l●â Des Ewes olim Dynastarum ditionatus, intestinarum patriae suae discor genarum asylum sceptrum tenente Reglicam nomine Aliciam ex perantiquâ uxorem duxit, et quatuor de eâ ge. & Andream. Obijt iste Adrianus de 6. Ann. Dom. 1551. & infra limites tur. Dicta autem Alicia maritum surae debitum persoluit mense julij, An. in hac Ecclesiâ non procul ab istâ feges Angliae, viz. H. 7. H. 8. E. 6. & viz. Matrem, vi. uxores & duas filias. Saint Mary Magdalen in old Fish-street. Orate pro animabus Thome Pigot Armigeri, Tho. Pigot. Richard Sutton. & Richardi Sutton Piscinarij et Iohanne uxoris corundem; qui quidem Thomas obijt xiii. die Decembris Anno Dom. M. cccc.lxxxv. & praedict. Richard. obijt ix. die Maii, An. Dom. M. cccc. lxxxi. quorum animabus propicietur Deus. Of your cherite, W. Holland and Margaret his wife. pray for the souls of William Holland Citison and Goldsmith of London, and Margaret his wyff, which William deceased the v. of May, in the year of our salvation, M. ccccc. xxv. on whose souls. Saint Nicholas Cold Abbey. Of your charity pray for the souls of Richard Story, Rich▪ Story, and joan his wife. Fishmonger of London, and jone his wife, which Richard deceased the xx. of August, M ccccc. xxxii. and the said jone .... Here lieth Richard Fernefold sometime Citison and .... London, Peter Fernefold son of Peter Fernefold, sometime of Stenning, in the County of Suslex, Gentylman, and Margaret his wife, which Richard deceased the xxv. of March, .... M. ccccc. xxv. and the said Margaret the xuj. of August, M. ccccc.vi. on whose souls .... Hic iacet humatus Walterus Turk vocitatus Walter Turk, Lord Maior. ..... famosus pulcher civis animosus Pauperibus .... Piscinarius Vicecomes. Maior civitatis suerat Londoniarumque. Anno milleno tricentessimo .... pleno Octobris obijt tricesimoque die. Pray for the souls of Thomas Padyngton, Tho. Paddington, Marg. and Anne his wives. sometime Citison and Fishmonger of London, Margaret and Anne his wives: which said Thomas deceassyd the v. of March, .... M. cccc lxxxiii. Hic iacet Willelmus Coggeshall nuper civis & piscenarius London cum Elisabetha ux. eius & octo liberis eorundem qui Willielmus obijt seven. die mens. Feb. An. Dom. M. cccc.xxvi. cuius. Will. Cogshall and Elis. his wife. Hic iacet Nicolaus Wolbergh civis & piscenarius London & Margareta xvor eius cum filijs & filiabus suis, Nich. Wolbergh and Mar. his wife. qui Nicolaus obijt v. die men's. Novembris, An. Dom. M. cccc.vii quorum animabus .... Pray for the soul of Roger Hunning, Rog. Hunning, and Margaret his wife. Fishmonger, sometime porueyor of Seafish to our Sovereign Lord King Henry the eight, and Margaret his wyff, the which Roger, deceased the third day of May, An. Dom. M. ccccc. xli. whose soul jesus pardon, Amen. Orate pro anima I home Paynard alias dict. Thome Aylwood quondam Secretarii cum Radulpho ●uper Domino Cromwell ac nuper Secretarij cum Willelmo Domino Beaumond, Tho. Paynard et postea Secretarii cum Willelmo Domino hastings, qui quidem Thomas obijt xxii. die Novembris Anno Dom. M. cccc.lxxiii. Ralph Lord Cromwell, here mentioned, was Lord Treasurer of England, Anno 1444. William Lord Beaumond was the son and heir of john Lord Viscount Beaumond, Vincent Catal. of Viscounts the first Viscount that we certainly know to have been in England: howsoever, it is said, that john Robsert Captain of Saint Samers in France, son of Sir Lewis Robsert, knight of the Garter, was Viscount Robsert, in king Henry the fifts time. William Lord Hastings, created by king Edward the fourth, to whom he was Lord Chamberlain. joan Coppinger. Hic iacet joanna Coppinger vidua quondam uxor Willelmi Coppinger Armigeri & postea nupt. Richardo Darland gen. qui quidem Ioanna obijt xviii die Martij ... Mcccclxxxxii. Saint michael's Pater Noster in the old Royal. Tho. Wandesford and Idonea his wife. Hic iacet Thomas Wandesford civis et Aldermannus London, & Idonea uxor eius, qui quidem Thomas obijt xiii die Octobris, An. Dom. M. ccccxlviii Quorum animabus. Will. moylie Lord Maior, and Catherine his wife. Gulielmo Bayly militi civi et Pannario London; fide integritate vite insigni, qui huius urbis Preturam tanta ingenij dexteritate, tanta animi promptitudine, & verborum comitate gessit, ut omnium Senatorum et populi merito nuncupetur delitie. Lites mire perosus, Pauperum Patronus, delictorum corrector, omnibus ordinibus iuxta charus, et numerosa sobole beatus fuit. Cantariam, ut vocant, in hoc templo perpetuo stabilivit. ..... Domina Katherina unica coniux coniugi charissimo et bene merenti et Robertus Leessis Executores fidelissimi posuere 5. Kalend. novemb. 1532. He had by his wife Catherine sixteen children, as did sometime appear by their portraitures on the Tombstone. He was the son of john Bayly of Thacksted in Essex. Glanvile. Glanvile sub glebe tegit hic lapis ossa johannis, Obsequio Regis subijt se plurimis annis. Sci ..... quos vivens ... moriens suos ad vos. .............. Spiritus aspiret ferte iunamen ei. Agnes Cheyney. Prey of your cherete for the souls of Agnes Cheyney, widow, late wyff unto William Cheyney, somtym Esquyr for the Body unto king Harry the seventh. Which Agnes died the fyfteenth day of july in the year of our Lord God on thousand four hundred eyghty and seven And for the souls of William Cheyney, Robart Molyneux, and Robert Sheryngton, her husbands, and all christian souls. Io. Raining. Hic iacet johannes Raining generosus qui obijt 22. die junij, Ann. Domini 1469. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Will Porter and Elis. his wife. Of your charity pray for the soul of William Porter, late Clerk of the Crown, and Elisabeth his wife, the which departed the 4 of March, 1521. on whose souls .... cowel lit. C. Clerk of the Crown, is a Clerk or Officer in the King's Bench, whose function is to frame, read, and record all Indictments against Traitors, Felons, and other offenders, there arraigned, upon any public crime. He is otherwise called Clerk of the Crown office. And Ann. 2. Hen. 4. cap. 10. he is called Clerk of the Crown of the Kings Bench. The reason of his denomination is because he reads and records Indictments against Traitors, Felons, etc. which are against the King's Crown and dignity. Saint Nicholas Olave. Here lieth the body of William Fyloll, Will. 〈◊〉. sonn and heir apparent to William Fyloll of Woodlond in the county of Dorset knight, and to Dame Dorothy his wyff dawter and heir to john Ifeyld of Stondon, in the Shire of Hertford Esquyr. Which William the son died in the life of his fade● without issue the iiii day of Septembyr, in the year of our redemption, M. cccccix. and in the year of his age the syxteenth. Whos soul God pardon. Amen. Orate pro animabus johannis Westcliff & joanne uxoris sue, Io. Westcliff● & joan his wife. qui quidem johannes quondam fuit Maior ville Sandwici & obijt 19 Decemb. 1473. quorum animabus propitietur Deus. Amen. Ici gist William Newport iadis Citizen & pessamere de Londre & massy sa femme, Will. Newport and Moss●s his wife. & leur enfens de ens engendre: Dieu de lour alues' eit pity. Amen. Amen. This Newport was one of the Sheriffs of London in the year 1375. Hic iacet Willelmus Read Civis & Piscenarius London qui obiit .... & Margeria uxor eius, Will Read and Ma●g. his wife. que obiit sexto die junij, Anno Domini Millesimo quadringentesimo quadragesimo septimo. Upon the same marble stone as followeth. Who that passeth by this way, Qui pro aliis orat, pro se laborat. For mercy of God, behold, and pray Qui pro aliis orat, pro se laborat. For all souls christian, and for us Qui pro aliis orat, pro se laborat. On Pater Noster, and an Ave. Qui pro aliis orat, pro se laborat. To the blessed Saints, and our blessed Lady, Qui pro aliis orat, pro se laborat. Saint Mary to pray for us. Qui pro aliis orat, pro se laborat. Many Monuments of the Dead in Churches in and about this City of London, as also in some places of the country, are covered with seats or pews, made high and easy for the Parishioners to sit or sleep in, a fashion of no long continuance, and worthy of reformation. Of the Diocese of London, the Battles therein fought, and of the Burials of the Dead slain in those terrible conflicts. NOw as I have before spoken somewhat of the Bishoprickes of Cant. and Rochester, so let me here speak a little of this Diocese of London, which extendeth so far in circuit, as the Site of the East or Middle Saxons kingdom anciently comprised; which was bounded on the East with the Ocean; on the South with the Thames, on the West with the Colne, and on the North with the River Stowre; within the limits whereof, Midlesex, Essex, and a part of Hertfordshire are contained. The glory of which Diocese is principally Midlesex, in regard of the far-famed City of London, the Metropolis of England (of which I have spoken before) and the chief seat of her sacred Bishops: as also in regard of the River of Thames, the king of all our Rivers. Of whom, and of the rare prospects he views in his passage between Windsor and London Bridge, a late Poet thus versifies. M. Drayton, Pol. 17. Song. But now this mighty Flood, upon his voyage pressed (That found how with his strength, his beauties still increased, From where, brave Windsor stood on tiptoe to behold The fair and goodly Thames, so far as ere he could, With kingly houses crowned, of more than earthly pride, Upon his either Banks as he along doth glide) With wonderful delight, doth his long course pursue, Where Otlands', Hampton Court, and Richmond he doth view. Then Westminster the next great Tames doth entertain, That vaunts her Palace large, and her most sumptuous Fane: The Lands tribunal seat that challengeth for hers, The crowning of our kings, their famous Sepulchers. Then goes he on along by that more beauteous Strand, Expressing both the wealth and bravery of the Land. (So many sumptuous Bowers, within so little space The All-beholding Sun scarce sees in all his race) And on by London leads, which like a Crescent lies, London lying like a half moon. Whose windows seem to mock the Star-befreckled skies. Besides her rising Spires, so thick themselves that show, As do the bristling reeds, within her banks that grow. There sees his crowded Wharfes, and people-pestred shores, London Bridge the Crown of Tames. His bosom overspread with shoals of labouring oars: With that most costly Bridge, that doth him most renown, By which he clearly puts all other Rivers down. Camd. in Mid. Midlesex (saith Camden) is for air passing temperate, and for soil fertile, with sumptuous houses, and pretty Towns on all sides pleasantly beautified: and every where offereth to the view many things memorable: Whereupon a german Poet thus versified. Tot campos, syluas, tot regia tecta, tot hortos Artifici dextrâ excultos, tot vidimus arces, Vt nunc Ansonio Tamisis cum Tibride certet. So many fields, and pleasant woods, so many Princely Bowers, And Palaces we saw besides, so many stately towers, So many Gardens trimly dressed by curious hand which are, That now with Roman Tiberis, the Tames may well compare. This County is comprised within short bounds, being in length, where it is the longest, not passing twenty miles, and in the narrowest place not passing twelve miles. The length thereof (saith Speed) extended from Stratford in the East, Speed of Mi●. to Morehall upon Colne in the West, is by measure nineteen English miles; and from South Mims in the North to his Majesty's Manor of Hampton Court in the South, are little above sixteen miles: the whole circumference extending to ninety. In form it is almost square, for air passing temperate, for soil abundantly fertile; and for pasturage and grain of all kinds, yielding the best, so that the wheat of this County hath served a long time for the Manchet to our Prince's table. It lieth seated in a vale, most wholesome and rich, having some hills also, and them of good ascent; from whose tops the prospect of the whole is seen like unto Zoar in Egypt, Gen 14.10. or rather like a Paradise and Garden of God. Five Princely houses inheritable to the English Crown, are seated in this Shire, which are, Enfield, Hanworth, Whitehall, S james, and Hampton Court, Hampton Court. a City rather in show, than the Palace of a Prince: and for stately port and gorgeous building not inferior to any in Europe. A work of admirable magnificence (saith Camden) built out of the ground by Thomas Wolsey Cardinal, Camd in Mid. in ostentation of his riches, when for very pride, being otherwise a most prudent man, he was not able to manage his mind. But it was made an Honour, enlarged and finished by king Henry the eight so amply, as it containeth within it five several inner Courts, passing large, environed with very fair buildings wrought right curiously, and goodly to behold. Of which Leyland writeth thus. Est locus insolito rerum splendore superbus, Alluiturque vaga Tamisini fluminis unda, Nomine ab antiquo iam tempore dictus Avona. Hic Rex Henricus taleis Octauius aedes Erexit, qualeis toto Sol aureus orbe Non vidit. A stately place for rare and glorious show, There is which Tames with wand'ring stream doth dowsse; Times past, by name of Avon men it knew: here Henry th'Eight of that name built an house So sumptuous, as that on such an one (Seek through the world) the bright Sun never shone. And another in the Nuptial Poem of Tame and Isis. Alluit Hamptonum celebrem quae laxior urbis Mentitur formam spacijs, hanc condidit Aulam Purpureus pater ille gravis, gravis ille Sacerdos Wolsaeus, fortuna savos cui fell repletos Obtulit heu tandem fortunae dona dolores. He runs by Hampton, which, for spacious seat Seems Citie-like: Of this fair courtly Hall First founder was a Priest and Prelate great Wolsey, that grave and glorious Cardinal. Fortune on him had poured her gifts full fast, But Fortune's Bliss, Alas, proved Bale at last. C●sar. Comm●nt. lib. 5. The ancient Inhabitants of Middlesex, as also of Essex, were called by Caesar, the Trinobantes, whom he nameth to be the most puissant in the Land, with whom he and his army had many bloody bicker near and upon the banks of the river of Tames, Burials near Stanes. wherein many were slain on either side, which lie interred in the fields 'twixt Shepperton and Stanes. Spec. Brit. Some affirm Stanes (saith Norden) to be so called of the Stakes, called Goway Stakes, which were fixed in the Thames by the Britons, to prevent julius Caesar of passing his army through the river. Lib. 1. cap. 2. Of which, and of the conflicts and skirmishes betwixt the Britain's and Romans, thus venerable Bede writes. Caesar's Horsemen at the first encounter, were overthrown of the Britain's, and Labienus one of his Colonels slain. At the second encounter, with great loss of his Army, he put the Britaines to flight. From thence he went unto the river of Tames, which men say cannot be waded over, but in one place: where on the farther side, a great number of the Britaines warded the banks, under Cassibelan their Captain, who had stuck the bottom of the river, and the banks also thick of great stakes, whereof certain remnants unto this day are to be seen, of Piles, of the bigness of a man's thigh, covered with lead, sticking fast in the bottom of the river; which when the Romans had espied, and escaped, the Britain's, not able to withstand the violence of the Roman Legions, hid themselves in the woods, out of the which they often breaking forth, greatly endamaged the Army of the Romans. Burials near Brainford. In and about Brainford or Brentford, the bodies of many a warlike Commander and expert Soldier lie inhumed, which were slain in that fierce and terrible battle, betwixt Edmund Ironside, and the Danes, which he had driven from the siege of London; at a place now called Turnham Greene, thereunto adjoining; in which battle he gave the Danes a bloody overthrow, losing few of his army, save such as were drowned in the riner of Tames as they passed over. In the year, 7141. and the day being the Paschall, whereon Christ rose from death, (which with due reverence is celebrated in all the Christian world) upon Gladmore heath, half a mile from Barnet, was fought a most fierce and cruel Battle, betwixt King Edward the fourth, and Richard Nevil the great Earl of Warwick, (the Mars and Make-King of England) contending to re-establish that holy, and yet unfortunate, King Henry the sixth in his regal authority. In this battle upon King Edward's part were slain, Burials of the dead slain at Barnet field. Humphrey Bourchier Lord Cromwell, Henry Bourchier, son and heir to the Lord Barners, both buried at Westminster. In the quarrel of King Henry, were slain the foresaid Richard Nevil Earl of Warwick, and john Nevil, marquis Montacute his brother, both buried at Bisham Abbey in Berkshire; the bodies of many others of the Nobility and Gentry, on both parties which perished in this unnatural conflict, had Christian burial in the Friar Augustine's Church London. The common Soldiers, as also many Commanders, were buried upon the same Plain where the foresaid battle was strucken: to whose memory a Chapel was built upon the said Plain, and a Priest appointed to say Mass for their souls, as the doctrine went in those days. Upon both sides of common Soldiers, there died that holy Easter day, as then the 14. of April, saith Ed. Hall, ten thousand: four thousand, saith Io. Stow, and Rob. Fabian saith, (far less) fifteen hundred, so uncertain, as I have said before, is the number of the dead slain in battle. Howsoever a part only of Hertfordshire is comprised within this Diocese, yet give me leave to say somewhat in this place, Camd. in Hert. of the whole County: A rich Country (saith Clarencieux) in corn Fields, Pastures, Meadows, Woods, Groves, and clear riverets. And for ancient towns it may contend with the neighbours, even for the best. For, there is scarcely another in all England that can show more good towns in so small a compass; the whole circumference of the Shire being but about an hundred and thirty miles. In this County, and in the town of S. Alban, two mortal and bloody battles of England's civil dissensions, The first battle of S. Alban. have been fought. The first whereof chanced the 24. of May, Anno 1455. by Richard, Duke of York, with his associates, the Earls of Warwick and Salisbury, and Lords of Fawconbridge, and Cobham, against King Henry the sixth. In whose defence, Edmund, Duke of Somerset, Henry, Earl of Northumberland, and john, Lord Clifford, with five thousand more, lost their lives, the King himself was wounded in the neck with an arrow, the Duke of Buckingham, and Lord Sudley, in their faces; Humphrey Earl Stafford in his right hand, and the Earl Dorset almost slain. On the Duke's part, only six hundred were slain. Of which battle, and of the timorous flight of the Soldiers on the King's party, the learned Abbot of Saint Alban, john Wheathamstead, who lived in those days, writes thus. Marcia splendiferum regerent cum sydera celum, Mss In bib. Co● Aspicerentque feros toruis aspectibus Angels, Albani Villam tranquilla pace vigentem Fedarunt multo violenter sanguine fuso. Rex aderat presens secumque cohors satis ingent De Dominis Regni: contrarius hijs Eboraci Dux que duo comites Warwici et Sarsburiensis Venerunt, media fit grandis pugna platea. In qua corruerant qui nobilitate vigebant De patria Boree comes insignis Dominusque. Corruit ac ipse qui belli causa fuisse Fertur, Dux magnus de Somercethe vocitatus: Ac alij plures, satis asperasors fuit ipsis. Multi fugerunt, aliter se non properarunt Quin faciunt trepide visum fugiendo Columbe. Insultum ve Canis, Damus, Lepus ac fera quevis Dum fugiunt nemora pecierunt sive Frutecta; In quibus ut pueri virgam metuendo magistri Se pudet id ferre vecorditer occoluere. Qui fuerant nostra proprius penetralia tecta Ad nos fugerunt sub Stallis et latuerunt, Aut infra latebras; timor ingens duxerat ipsos. Sic imbecillis tergum dedit hostibus hostis; Non sine dedecore, nec nominis absque rubore. Mors est non vita sub turpi vivere fama. Et patet in paucis sors belli que fuit huius, Qualis & eventus Domini Ducis et comitatus: Ter deno trino Domini Regis fuit anno Henrici sexti, facies hec obuia celi, In Maio mense bis dena bis quoque luce. M. semel. x quino, C quater fuit, I quoque quino, In Maio mense bis dena bis quoque luce. Hic strages procerum conflatus & hic populorum. The second battle of S. Alban. The second battle fought in this town of Saint Alban, was by Queen Margaret, against the Dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk, the Earls of Warwick and Arundel, that by force kept with them, the King her husband, with whom by constraint he held, and on their side fought until the field was lost, and Lords fled, when with great joy he was received by his Queen, and young son Prince Edward. This battle sell the 17. of February▪ being Shrovesunday. Of this town, and of these two battles, thus Camden writes in a more succinct and serious stile. Camd. in Hert. As Antiquity consecrated this place (saith he) to be an Altar of Religion: so Mars also may seem to have destined it for the very plot of bloody battle For, to let other particulars go by, when England under the two houses of Lancaster and York, bereft, as it were, of vital breath, was ready through a civil war to sink down and fall in a swoon: the chief Captains on both sides joined battle twice with reciprocal variety of fortune in the very town. First, Richard Duke of York gave the Lancastrians here a sore overthrow, took King Henry the sixth captive, and slew many honourable personages. Four years after, the Lancastrians under the conduct of Queen Margaret, won here the field, put the house of York to flight, and restored the King to his former liberty. The bodies of such of the Nobility, Burials of the dead slain in the battles at S. Alban. and others of eminent rank and quality which lost their lives in these mortal contentions, were buried in the Abbey Church, (as I have partly touched before) in Saint peter's, and in other religious Structures, accordingly as they were befriended; the common Soldiers were buried in Churchyards, and upon a little green at the Town's end, called No man's land, which lies betwixt the two ways (as I take it) leading to Luton, and Sandridge. Near unto the road high way (saith Camden in this tract) between Stenenhaugh and Knebworth (the seat of the worshipful house of the Littons, Burials of the dead betwixt Stenenhaugh, and Knebworth. descended from Litton in Darbishire) I saw certain round hills cast up by man's hands, such as the old Romans were wont to rear for Souldi●ers slain in the wars, of which the Captain himself laid the first turse: and now for Essex. Essex is a country large in compass, Camd. in Essex. (the circumference thereof being one hundred forty six miles) fruitful of woods, plentiful of Saffron, and very wealthy. A late writer having reckoned up the commodities which this County doth afford, M. Drayton. Song 19 concludes on this manner. If you esteem not these, as things above the ground, Look under, Roman burials, and the bones of Giantlike found in Essex. where the Urns of ancient times are found: The Roman Emperors Coins, oft digged out of the dust, And warlike weapons, now consumed with cankring rust, And huge and massy bones of mighty fearful men, To tell the world's full strength, what creatures lived then, When in her height of youth, the lusty fruitful earth Brought forth her big-limed brood, even Giants in their birth. near to Showbery, Burials near Showbery. in Rochfort Hundred, are certain hills, in which the bodies of the Danes there discomfited, and slain in the reign of Edmund Ironside, lie buried in Essex. What way (saith Camden in Essex) this country looketh toward Cambridgeshire, Barklow showeth itself, well known now, by reason of four little hills or Burries cast up by man's hand: such as in old time were wont to be raised, Burials near Barklow. as Tombs for Soldiers slain, whose relics were not easy to be found. But when a fifth and sixth of them were not long since digged down, Ancient Tombs. three troughes of stone were found, and in them, broken bones of men, as I was informed. The country people say, that they were reared after a field there fought against the Danes, for, Dane wort, which with blood-red berries, cometh up here plenteously, they still call by no other name, than Danes-bloud, of the number of Danes that there were slain, verily believing that it bloometh from their blood. The parish Church of Ashdown, or Assandun, gives burial to the slaughtered bodies of many brave English Soldiers: Danes-bloud. Burials of the dead, in, and about Ashdown for Edmund, surnamed Ironside, King of England, having fought six battles with the Danes, within the compass of one year, in which at the beginning he had the better, putting them ever to rout, played here in this place his last prize, where he was so defeyted (by the means of false Edrick his counsel) that he lost the flower of the English Nobility. In memorial of which Battle, king Canutus the Danish Conqueror built this Church at such time, when as upon remorse and repentance for the blood which he had shed, he erected Chapels in what part soever he had fought any field, and shed Christian blood. Of which my old Rhymer Robert of Gloucester. Knute moche loved Eng●ysshmen, and the loud thereunto, And holy church sustained as him ought to do. And restored Abbeys stroyed that were before And Chyrches let arere that allwer * ●●●inous forlor And Chyrches now he let arere in * places stedests most thar Where he had Battles do, and men yslaw are As upon Asshedonne and about their All for the * souls. soulygs of 'em that slay there were. Certain small hillocks are remaining near to this Church at this day, out of which have been digged the bones of men; Armour, and the water chains of horse bridles; as the Inhabitants told me. Claudius' the Emperor (saith S Danyel) had the honour of taking the whole Isle of Britain to the Roman Empire, Battles and burials of the dead, ●● and about ●he ancient Ba●hg of Maldon. which though thus won, was not, till a long time after, overcome. For now the Britain's (understanding the misery of their dissociation: how their submission brought but the more oppression) colleague themselves against the Romans, taking their occasion upon the outrages, committed on the person and state of Queen Vaodicia, or Boudicea, widow of Prasutagus king of the Icenians, (the Inhabitants of Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridge, and Huntingtonshires') a great and rich Prince, who (at his death) had left Nero his heir, and two daughters, hoping thereby to free his house from injuries. But it fell out contrary; for, no sooner was he dead, but his kingdom was spoiled by the Centurions, his house ransacked by slaves, his wife beaten, and his daughters ravished. Besides the chief men of the Icenians (as if all the region had been given in prey) were rest of their goods, and the king's kinsmen esteemed as captives: with which contumely, and fear of greater mischief, they conspire with the Trinobants (the Inhabitants of Midlesex and Essex) and others (not yet enured to servitude) to resume their liberty. And first set upon the Garrisons of the Veteran Soldiers (whom they most hated) defeated the ninth Legion, whereof they slew all the foot, forced Cercalis the Legate, and leader to flight, and put to the sword seventy thousand Romans and associates, inhabiting this municipal Town Comolodunum, now Maldon, as also London and Verulam; before Suetonius the Governor of the Province could assemble the rest of the dispersed forces, to make head against their army, conducted by Vaodicia, who, (with her two daughter▪ brought into the field to move compassion and revenge) incites them to that noble and manly work of liberty. Which to recover, she protests to hold herself there but as one of the vulgar (without weighing her great honour and birth) resolved to win, or dye. Many of their wives were likewise there to be spectators and incouragers of their husband's valour. But in the end Suetonius got the victory with the slaughter of fourscore thousand Britain's: of the Romans only four hundred were slain, and not many more hurt, saith Tacitus, lib. Annal. 14. ca 11. Vaodicia seeing the overthrow of her Army, was notwithstanding unvanquished in her own Noble Spirit, and scorning to be a spectacle in their Triumphs, or a vassal to their wills, after the example of Cleopatra, she made an end of her miseries and life by poison: She was afforded honourable burial, and so were the rest of her vanquished Army there slain according to their quality, near unto the places where the battle was strucken. BISHOPS OF LONDON CANONISED SAINTS. 〈…〉 London. MEllitus the first Bishop of this See, after the removal of the archbishopric to Canterbury, had a shrine erected to his honour in this Church, as I have touched before. In his time, and partly by his instigation, this Cathedral Church was built by Ethelbert King of Kent. He was consecrated Bishop of London by Saint Austin, Archbishop of Canterbury, the year 604. In the government whereof he continued nineteen years; in which time and about the fourth year of his consecration, he went to Rome to confer with Boniface the Pope about diverse things, and was by him honourably entertained. A year or two after his return, died both Ethelbert King of Kent, as also Sebert of the East Angles, whom he had converted to the Christian Faith. G●dwin. King Sebert left behind him three wicked sons, that being never baptised, came notwithstanding one day into the Church at Communion time, and asked the Bishop what he meant that he delivered not of that same fi●e bread unto them as he was wont to their father Sebert, and did yet unto the rest of the people. He answered, that if they would be washed in the water of life, as he was, and the rest of the people there present; then would he deliver unto them of this bread also: but otherwise, neither was it lawful for him to deliver, nor them to receive it. This notwithstanding they would have enforced him, and when they could not prevail, were so enraged, as they expelled him their dominions, hardly holding their hands from doing him violence at that time. He, being thus exiled, went first unto Laurence Archbishop of Canterbury, and finding him in little better case than himself was at London, departed into France, together with justus Bishop of Rochester. Being sent for soon after by Laurence, it happened the same year that the same Laurence died, and he was appointed to succeed him: where he sat about five years, even until the day of his expiration. Of which an old Anonimall Manuscript, thus. To whom Melite than plainly 'gan succeed, That fyve year so ruled the Chirche in right. And than this earth forsook for heavens meed And went to blyss where God would of his might The year of Crystes nativite by right Six hundryd full twenty and four accountyd When earth his corpse had his and surmowntyd. Gregory the Great, Bishop of Rome, writ to Mellitus concerning the purifying (but not the pulling down) of Idolatrous Churches within these kingdoms; An Epistle well worthy the observation, which I have read in Gotcelinus the Monk, who writes of the life and actions of Saint Austin, of other Bishops of the See of Canterbury, as also of diverse Saints in those primitive times: and dedicates his works to Anselm, Archbishop of Canterbury; Such was the letter of Gregory as followeth. Dilectissimo silio Mellito Abbati, Mss in lib. Sim. 〈…〉 aurat. Gregorius servus seruorum Dei. Post discessionem Congregationis nostre que tecum est, valde sumus suspensi redditi, quia nichil de prosperitate vestri itineris audisse nos contigit. Cum ergo Deus omnipotens vos ad reverendissimum fratrem nostrum Augustinum Episcopum perduxerit, dicite ei quid diu mecum de causa Anglorum cogitans tractavi, videlicet quia Fana Idolorum destrui in eadem gente minime debeant, sed ipsa que in eyes sunt Idola destruantur. Aqua benedicta in eisdem Fanis aspergatur, Altaria construantur Reliquie componantur, quia si Fana eadem bene constructa sunt, necesse est ut a cultu Demonum in obsequium veri Dei debeant commutari, ut dum gens ipsa eadem Fana sua novidet destrui, de cord erroren● deponat, & Dominum verum cognoscens et adorans, ad loca que consuevit familiarius concurrat. Et quia Boves solent in sacrificio Demonum multos occidere, debet eis eciam de re hac aliqua solemnitas iramutari, ut die dedicationis vel natalicijs sanctorum Martyrum quorum illic reliquie ponuntur, tabernacula sibi circa easdem Ecclesias que ex Fanis commutate sunt de ramis arborum faciant, & religiosis convivijs solemnitatem celebrent Nec animalia immolent, sed ad laudem Dei in usum suum animalia occidant, et Donatori omnium de sacietate sua gracias referent; ut dum eis aliqua externis gaudia res exuantur, ad interiora gaudia consentire facilius valeant. Nam duris mentibus simul omnia abscidere impossibile esse non dubiam est, quia et is qui summum locum ascendere nititur, gradibus vel passibus non autem saltibus elevatur. Sic Israheletico populo in Egypto Dominus siquidem innotuit, sed tamen eis sacrificiorum usum quem Diabolo solebat exibere in cultu proprio reseruavit, ut eye in suo sacrificio animalia immolare preciperet, quatinus cor mutantes aliud de sacrificio ammitterent, aliud retinerens Vt et si ipsa essent ●nimalia que offerre consueverant, vero tamen Deo hec et non ydolis immolantes iam sacrificia ipsa non essent. Hec igitur dilectionem tuam predicto Fratri necesse est dicere, ut ipse in presenti i●●ic positus perpendat qualiter omnia debeat dispensare. Deus te incolumem custodiat dilectissime fili. Data die quinto decimo Kalendarum Augustarum, imperante nostro Mauritio Tiberio pijssimo Augusto anno nono decimo: post Consulatus eiusdem Domini, anno octavo decimo; Indictione quarta. Hereby we may see the pious advice and great policy of this learned Father of the Church, for the converting of the misbelieving Pagans, or heathen people of this kingdom from Idolatry, to the true worship of the everliving God. My forenamed Author Gotceline in the 53. Chapter of his first Book, tells me that the names of the prime pillars of the English Church, and the especial propagators of the Gospel, in these times, were engraven upon the Tarpeian Rock at Rome, of which number this my Mellitus is one of the principal. As appears by these Latin Rhymes following, sometime likewise engraven or cut in the foresaid Rock under each several name to their further glory. Dux Augustinus precellit in ordine primus, Lau●iger & mundus Laurenti sede secundus. Tertius est gratus Mellitus melligeratus. Quartus adest Iustus dulces dans nomine gustus. Quintus Honorius Eccle vigour extat honorque. Deus dedit est sextus cui dat sua munera Christus. Theodorus iuxta fert sabbata septimus alma. His septem ducibus viget Anglia totque diebus. Additur octaws Monachorum Dux Adrianus. Anglorum stella Mildretha refert sua mella. Octo Patres Rome reliqui comitantur honore. Ex Anglis nati meritis horum sociati. Hinc manat divis Euangelii via rivis▪ High sunt Brithpaldus. Tatynnus vosque Nothelme: Et jamberte patres: primos proceres imitantes. Tot simul Ecclesie cingunt frontem pictate. 〈◊〉 lib. 2 ca 7. It is written of Mellitus, that when upon a certain time the City of Canterbury was by negligence set on fire, and began to waste and consume away by much increasing of the flames, so that no help of man, nor casting of water thereon, was able to quench or stay the same, the greatest part of the city being at length almost burnt, and the furious flashes extending themselves even unto the Bishop's place: this good Bishop seeing man's help now to fail, and trusting only in the aid and succour of almighty God, commanded that he might be carried out of his house, and set against these fierce flames of fire, piercing and flying all round about. Now where the greatest rage of this burning was; there was the place of martyrdom of the four holy crowned Saints. When then the Bishop by his servants was brought forth, and set in this place, here he began with prayer (sick as he was, for he was often troubled with infirmities of body, and much grieved with the Gout, Mellitu● quenched by his prayer, the fire burning the City of Canterbury. notwithstanding ever whole and sound of mind) to drive away the peril of the fire: which the stout strength of strong men with much labour could not before bring to pass. And behold the wind that blew from the South, whereby this fire was first kindled and blasted abroad (now suddenly bend against the South) first tempered his blasts; for fear of hurting the places right over in the other side, and after quite quenching the flames, ceasing and extinguishing the fire, made all calm and well again. And truly this good man of God which did fervently always burn with the fire of inward charity, and was wont with his often prayers and holy exhortations to drive from himself, and all his, the danger of ghostly temptations, and trouble by spirits of the air, might now justly prevail against the wind, and easily cease these temporal flames, and obtain that they should never hurt him nor his. See more of him before in Canterbury. S. Ceada or Cedda. After the death of Mellitus, the Church of London was long without a Pastor, even until that Segebert the son of Segebert (surnamed the little) obtaining the Kingdom of the East Saxons, by the persuasion of Oswin, King of Northumberland, became a Christian, and procured Ceada a virtuous and godly Priest, to be consecrate Bishop of his country: which was done in the holy Island, 〈…〉 3. c. 2● near to Berwick, by Finan, Bishop of Durham, from whence he returned to this his Diocese, and began with more authority to perfect the work he had already begun, erecting in diverse places, Churches, making Priests and Deacons, who in preaching & baptising▪ might assist him, 〈…〉 Tilbu●y, Cities. especially in the Cities of Ithancester & Tileburg, the one standing upon the Thames, the other upon a branch thereof, called Pant, in which two places diverse newly assembling together christened, he instructed them after the rules of religious persons, as far as their tender capacity could then conceive. And hereby way of digression, let me speak somewhat of this small hamlet of Tilbury, in ancient time the seat of the Bishops of London; and no question in those days, when as Bishop Cedda by baptism engrafted the East Saxons in the Church of Christ, a pretty fair city, howsoever it consisteth now only of a few cottages, much honoured by that famous, religious, Sir Horace V●●e Ba●on of Tilbury. and fortunate great Commander in the wars, Sir Horace Vere Knight, Lord Vere of Tilbury. Of whom, and of his elder brother, Sir Francis Vere Knight, deceased, and honourably buried, like (as he was) an expert and valiant warrior; in the Abbey of Westminster; a late Poet hath thus written. Then lived those valiant Veres, both men of great command, In our employments long: Sir Francis, and si● Ho●ace Vere▪ M. 〈…〉. Song 〈◊〉 whose either marshal hand Reached at the highest wreath, it from the top to get, Which on the proudest head, Fame yet had ever set But to return: this man of God Cedda, having, at first and last, continued a long time in these countries, preaching the word of life, by which he made a great harvest unto Christ: went down into his own country of Northumberland, (which he oftentimes used to visit) where he builded a Monastery at Lestinghen, wherein he died, and was buried, of whom no more, until I come to speak of that Foundation, save only these verses following: ....... Now London place doth take Which had those of whom time Saints worthily did make▪ S. Chad Bishop of Lichfield. As Cedda (Brother to that reverend Bishop Chad, At Lichfield, in those times, his famous seat that had) Is Sainted for that See amongst our reverend men, From London though at length removed to Lestingen A Monastery, which then richly he had begun▪ Erconwald, S. Erconwald. the son of Offa King of the East Saxons, and the fourth Bishop of this Diocese, was likewise (as I have already spoken) canonised; of whom venerable Bede thus writes. Bed. lib. 4 ca 6. At that time (saith he) when Sebba and Sigher ruled the East Saxons, the Archbishop (which was Theodore) appointed over them, Erconwald to be their Bishop in the City of London: the life and conversation of which man, both before he was Bishop, and after, was reported and taken for most holy, as also even yet the signs and tokens of heavenly virtues and miracles do well declare. Cures by Saint Erconwald, Horse-licter. For until this day, his Horse-licter being kept and reserved by his Scholars, wherein he was wont to be carried when he was sick and weak, doth daily cure such as have agues, or are diseased any otherwise. And not only the sick persons that are put under, or laid by the Horse-licter to be so healed; but also the chips and pieces that are cut off from it, and brought to sick folks, are wont to bring them speedy remedy. This and many other the miracles wrought by him (if we may believe Capgrave) was the cause of his canonisation: questionless he was a devout and virtuous man, and bestowed his patrimony in the building of two Monasteries, one for Monks at Chertsey in Surrey, another for Nuns at Barking in Essex, of which before. Thus much then here for a conclusion as followeth. Him Erkenwald ensues th'East English Offa's son, His Father's Kingly Court who for a Crosiar fled, Whose works such fame him won for holiness that dead, Time him enshrined in Paul's (the mother of that See) Which with revenues large, and privileges he Had wondrously endowed: to goodness so affected, That he those Abbeys great from his own power erected, At Chertsey near to Thames, and Barking famous long. S. Theodred. Theodred, Bishop of the Diocese, may challenge a place in this my Calendar, for that he was surnamed the Good, pro praerogativa virtutum, for the pre-eminence of his virtues, saith Malmesbury, lib. 2. de Pontif. Anglor. he flourished about the year, 900. he was buried under a high tomb by the window of the vault going down into S. Faith's Church. S. Egwulfe. Of Egwulfe and his Shrine, I have already written all that I know. S. Richard. Richard Fitz-neale had his Shrine in S. Paul's Church, but upon what ground, or for what reason he was thus much honoured, I do not learn. He was the son of Nigellus, or Neale, Bishop of Ely; and was made Treasurer of England by the purchase of his father the foresaid Nigellus. Ex lib. Elien. in bib. Co●. Richardus filius Nigelli Episcopi Eliens. pro quo Nigellus pater emit officium Thesaurij a Rege avaro pro Quadragint. Marcis, pro quibus pecunijs Nigellus pater spoliavit Ecclesiam Eliens. Thesauro suo et ornamentis. This purchase was made when as the King, Henry the second, went to the wars of Tolous. It is further written in the book of Ely, that this Richard Fitz-neale, after the burial of Nigellus his father (being also an enemy to the Church of Ely as his father had been before) made haste to pass over the Seas to King Henry the second, fearing that some evil would be prepared against him, if the Church should have sent any thither before him: At whose coming to the King, he accused the Monks of Ely of many things, and did therewith so edge the King against them, that the King sending into England, charged by Wunnecus, one of his Chaplains, that the Prior of Ely should be deposed, and the Monks with all their goods to be proscribed and banished. This man being Treasurer to King Henry the second, the treasure of the said Henry the second at his death, came unto one hundred thousand marks; notwithstanding the excessive charges of the King many ways. This Richard (being Bishop of London, by the name of Richard the third, and the King's Treasurer) was chosen for the government of this See in the year of our redemption, one thousand, one hundred, eighty and nine, being the first year of King Richard the first, and was consecrated Bishop at Lambeth, by Baldwine, Archbishop of Canterbury, in the year of Christ, one thousand, one hundred, ninety: he died the fourth of the Ides of September, in the year of grace, one thousand, one hundred, ninety and eight, being the ninth year of King Richard the first, as I have it out of the Catalogue of Treasurers of England, collected by Francis Thin. He bestowed much upon the building of his Church, S. Paul's, as also upon other Edifices belonging to his See, which was the cause, I conjecture, wherefore the Shrine was erected to his memory. Many miracles (saith Mat. Paris) were wrought at the tomb of Roger, S. Roger. surnamed the Black, the four and fortieth Bishop of this Diocese, who lieth buried near to the preaching place in Saint Paul's Church, under a monument of grey marble, of which, as also of him, I have partly spoken before. Godwin, Bishop of Hereford, out of the foresaid M. Paris saith, that this Roger was a reverend man, religious, learned, painful in preaching, eloquent, a great Housekeeper, and of very gentle and courteous behaviour: whereunto he might have added (as it is in my Author) that he was also stout and courageous. For, Rustandus the Popes Nuntio being earnest in a convocation for setting forward a certain prowling device to scrape up money for his master, he not only withstood him openly, but cried out upon the unreasonable and shameless covetousness of the Court of Rome, and was the only means of staying the course of that exaction. For revenge hereof, not long after they began to frame an accusation against him at Rome, alleging matters altogether false and frivolous. It forced him to travel thither, and cost him great sums of money before he could rid his hands of that brabble. The year 1233. Walter Mauclerke, Bishop of Carlisle, taking ship to pass over the seas, was hindered by some of the King's Officers, for that he had no licence to depart the Realm. These Officers for so doing, he excommunicated, and riding strait unto the Court, certified the King what he had done, and there renewed the same sentence again. About the same time, the King gave commandment for the apprehending of Hubert de Burgo Earl of Kent, who having sudden notice thereof at midnight, got him up, and fled into a Church in Essex. They to whom the business was committed, finding him upon his knees before the high Altar, with the Sacrament in one hand, and a cross in the other, carried him away nevertheless unto the Tower of London. The Bishop taking this to be a great violence and wrong offered to holy Church, would never leave the King (which was Henry the third, a King indeed very religious) until he had caused the Earl to be carried unto the place from whence he was fetched; which was thought to be a means of saving the Earl's life. For though order was taken he should not scape thence, yet it gave the King's wrath a time to cool, and himself leisure to make proof of his innocency. By reason whereof, he was afterward restored to the King's favour and former places of honour. But the story here followeth, which is also annexed to his tomb, that above all others gives the truest testimony of his religious, vigerous, and undaunted masculine spirit, Mat. Paris, a 1230. Upon the day of the conversion of Saint Paul, while Roger, Bishop of London was at high Mass within the Church of Saint Paul in London, a sudden darkness overshadowed the Choir, and therewith came such a tempest of thunder and lightning, A strange Tempest. that the people there assembled, thought verily the Church and Steeple had come down upon their heads. There came moreover such a filthy savour and stink withal, that partly for fear, and partly for that they might not abide the savour, they voided the Church, falling on heaps one upon another, as they sought to get out of the same. The Vicars and Canons forsook their Desks, so that the Bishop remained there only with one Deacon that served him at Mass. Afterward when the air began to clear up, the people returned into the Church, and the Bishop, qui remansit intrepidus, who remained all the time nothing at all abashed, went forward and finished the Mass. M. D. Polyol. Song. 24. Thus Roger hath a room in this our Sainted throng, Who by his words and works, so taught the way to heaven As that great name to him, sure vainly was not given. Now for a conclusion, if you desire greatly to know the greatness of this christian name of Roger, as the Poet here in this place seems to call it, consult with Verstegan in his Etymologies of the ancient Saxon proper names of men and women, and he will tell you that Roger was at the first, Rugard or Rougard, and afterwards Rugar, and with us last Roger. Rou or Ru is our ancient word for rest, repose, or quietness, guard, to keep, or conserve, so as Rugard (now Roger) is a keeper or conserver of rest and quietness. Such a keeper, such a conserver of peace and quietness, was this our Bishop Roger, whom I leave to his eternal rest and repose, and so take my leave of this sometime his Diocese. Here endeth the Diocese of London: ANCIENT FUNERAL MONUMENTS WITHIN THE Diocese of NORWICH. In Suffolk. Dunwich. THE first seat of the Bishops of this Diocese was at Dunwich in Suffolk, Felix the first Bishop of Dunwich, or Dunmok. Harding. ca: 91. and the first Bishop thereof was Felix, a Burgundian. At Dunmok than was Felix fyrst Bishop Of Estangle, and taught the christian ●ayth, That is full hie in heaven I hope. His happy coming into this kingdom, happened upon this occasion, as followeth. Sebert, or Sigebert, king of the East Angles, a man in all points learned, and most Christian, who whilst his brother was yet living, being himself banished into France by his father Redwald, Beda lib. 2. ca 15 Hist. Eccl. was there baptised and instructed in the Faith; of which faith he laboured to make all his Realm partakers, as soon as he came unto the Crown. Whose good endeavour herein, the foresaid Felix did most earnestly favour, and with great praise apply himself. Who when he came from Burgundy (where he was borne, and took holy orders) into Britain to Honorius the Archbishop, unto whom he opened his desire and purpose, which was, to preach the word of God unto the foresaid East Angles. The Archbishop gladly gave him licence, and sent him forth to sow the seed of eternal salvation, in the misbelieving hearts of the people of that country. His zeal and virtuous desire proved not in vain: For, this holy husbandman, and happy tiler of the spiritual field, found in that Nation plentifulness of fruit, and increase of people that believed him. For he brought all that Province (being now delivered by his help from their long iniquity and unhappiness) unto the faith and works of justice, and in the end to the reward of perpetual bliss and happiness for ever, according to the good abodement of his name, which in latin is called Felix, and in our English tongue, soundeth Happy. He was made Bishop about the year of our redemption, 630. and chose Dunwich for his Episcopal Chair; being a City in foregoing ages, spacious, much frequented, and well peopled with inhabitants. Famous also for a Mint therein, some men of the town can yet show of the coins, which are sterling pence, with this inscription, Civitatis Dunwic. But now by a certain peculiar spite and envy of Nature, that suffereth the greedy sea to have what it will, and encroach still without all end, the greatest part thereof is violently carried away with the waves, and it lieth (as it were) desolate. The common fame and report of the Inhabitants is, that before the town came to decay, Two and fifty religious st●●ctures, as many windmill, and as many top ships in Dunwich. Recorda Dun. there belonged thereunto, two and fifty religious houses, as parish Churches, Priories, Hospitals, and Chapels; as many Windmills, and as many top Ships. But certain it is, as appear by manifest and sound Record which I have seen (saith Stow) that even of late time, there was within the said town, six parish Churches, two houses of Friars, an house which had been of Templars, two Hospitals, and three Chapels: four of these parish Churches are now of late swallowed up in the Sea, and but two of them remaining on the land, to wit, Saint peter's, and All Saints. The Inhabitants of Dunwich desiring succour for their Town, against the rage of the Sea, affirm that a great piece of a Forest, sometime thereby, is devoured and turned to the use of the Sea. Camd. in Suss. In the reign of William the Conqueror (saith Camden) Dunwich had in it two hundred and six and thirty Burgesses, an hundred poor people: it was valued at fifty pounds, and threescore thousand Herring of gift, for so we read in doomsday book. In the reign of Henry the second, as William of Newborough writeth, It was a town of good note, and full stored with sundry kinds of riches. At which time when England was all on a light fire with new stirs and broils, this town was so fortified, that it made Robert, Earl of Leicester afraid, who with his army overranne all the parts thereabout at his pleasure. But to draw nearer to these our times, I have read and copied out a large Treatise of Dunwich, (now in the custody of Sir Simonds D'ewes' Knight) of which so much in this place as I find to be any way pertinent to the premises, and my purpose. This treatise or relation of Dunwich, was written in the reign of Queen Mary, and sent to one Master Dey, from a friend of his, whose name is there concealed. The state of Dunwich since the foregoing time. Six parish Churches. Sir, etc. Six parish Churches were anciently in Dunwich, the first was Saint leonard's, now drowned in the sea; the second, Saint peter's, now standing; the third, Saint john's, likewise swallowed up of the Sea; the fourth, Saint Martins, now lying under the waves; the fifth, Saint Nicholas, now altogether shipwrecked; and the sixth, the Parish of All Saints, now standing and remaining. Two houses of Friars. Also there was two houses of Friars, very fair Churches and building, walled round about with a stone wall, with diverse fair gates, as yet there may be seen; the which grey Friars was of the order of Saint Francis, and called the Friar's Minors: and the black Friars were of the order of Saint Dominicke, (and were called the Friar's Preachers. Also there was in the said Town, One house of Templars. an ancient and very old Church, called the Temple of our Lady; the which Church, by report, was in the jews time, and was vaulted over. And the roof of the same Church, and also the Isles, were leaded all over. And it was a Church of great privilege and pardon in those days, and was endowed with diverse Rents, Tenements, Houses, Lands, and other profits and commodities, both free and copy: as well in Donwiche, Westelton, Dyngle, etc. as also in diverse other places, etc. And commonly there was kept a Court, called Donwiche Temple Court, on the day of All Souls, for the levying and gathering up of the yearly revenue of the same. Also there is in the said Town, Two Hospitals two Hospitals, the one is called Saint james, which Church is a great one, and a fair large one after the old fashion, and diverse tenements, houses, and lands to the same belonging, to the use of the poor, sick, and impotent people there. But now lately, greatly decayed and hindered by evil Masters of the said Hospital, and other evilly disposed covetous persons, which did sell away diverse lands and rents from the said Hospital, to the great hindrance of the poor people of the said Hospital, as plainly it is to be proved. The other Hospital was of the holy Trinity, The covetousness of the Masters and Officers. The destruction of both Hospitals. and was, and is, called the Mason Dieu, whereof the Church is now pulled down, and decayed by the means of such evil Masters and covetous persons, as decayed the other Hospital. But there is yet diverse tenements, houses, lands, and rents, remaining to the use of the poor of the same Hospital. The which Mason Dien was an house of great privilege, and a place exempt, and there was a very little proper house, and a proper lodging for the Masters of the same, for the time being to dwell in. As there hath been masters of the same Mason Dieu, in times past that hath been worshipful, viz. one there was of late days, a Master of Art, and another that was a Squire, and such like, etc. I would to God these injuries and wrongs done to these two poor Hospitals might be restored, and reform again to their former estate. For, surely, whosoever shall do it, shall do a good work before God; I pray God bring it to pass, Amen. Also there was in the said Town of Donwiche, Three Chapel▪ three Chapels, whereof one was of Saint Antony, another of Saint Francis, and a third was of Saint Katherine. The which three Chapels were put down, when all the houses of Religion were put down. But you shall further understand, that the common fame of a great number of credible persons is, and hath been for a long time past, that there hath been in the Town of Donwiche before any decay came unto it, fifty and two parish Churches, houses of Religion, Hospitals and Chapels, and other such like; as many windmills, and as many top Ships. Also I think you do remember the manner, form, and fashion of the building and making of Saint john's Church, and Saint Nicholas Church, how they were close fled both North and south, and the steeples in the midst like Cathedral Churches now used, and as it seemeth, as the old manner of Cathedral Churches than was. And most likest so was the Church of Saint Felix: for certainly one of these three Churches, was the Bishop's seat of Donwiche, The Cathedral Church uncertain. if one of them were not after another, as the Sea drowned them. And further you shall certainly understand, that when Saint john's Church was taken down, A strange and ancient burial of a Bishop. there lay a very plain fair Gravestone in the Chancel; and when it was raised and taken up, next under the same Gravestone was a great hollow stone, hollowed after the fashion of a man, for a man to lie in: and therein a man lying with a pair of Boötes upon his legs, the forepart of the feet of them peicked, after a strange fashion, and a pair of Chalices of course mettle lying upon his breast, the which was thought to be one of the Bishops of Donwiche, but when they touched and stirred the same dead body, it fell, and went all to powder and dust. And although these aforesaid three old Churches were not sumptuous, great, & very fair, after the manner & fashion of Cathedral Churches now used, yet it seemeth they might serve in those days very well; for it plainly appeareth in the book of the description of England, and in the title of Bishoprickes and their Sees, the thirteenth chapter, whereas these words following are said. Bishop's Seats anciently what they were. Take heed, for in the beginning of holy Church in England, Bishops ordained, and had their Sees in low places and simple, that were conveniable and meet for contemplation and devotion, etc. But in King William the conquerors time by doom of Law Canon, it was otherwise ordained, that Bishops should remove, and come out of small towns, and to have their Sees in great Cities. By means whereof, it seemeth that the town of Donwiche being then greatly decayed, and also then likely more and more to decay (as it hath done indeed) from a great city (as some do say) or at the least from a very great ancient Town, to a little small Town, the Bishop's seat of Donwich, was removed from Donwich to Elmham, and Thetford, and afterward to the City of Norwich, whereas it yet remaineth. A Mint in Dunwich. There was a Mint in Dunwich; for, one Master Holliday told me that he had a groat, whose superscription on the one side, was Civitas Donwic. diverse other things he told me of to make it a city. The Treatise is much longer, but enough is already delivered. The succession of the Bishops of Dunwich, is set down by Bishop Godwin, to which I refer my Reader. The foundation of the Black Friars in Dunwich. This religious Structure was founded by Sir Roger de Holishe, Knight, of the order you have heard before, of the time, dedication, value, or surrender, I find not any thing. Persons of note buried in the Church of this Monastery, were as followeth: Burials in the black Friars at Dunwich. Sir Roger de Holishe, Knight, the foresaid founder▪ Sir Ralph Vfford, and Dame jone his wife. Sir Henry Laxiffeld Knight. Dame jone de Har●ile. Dame Ada Cravene. Dame jone Weyland, Sister of the Earl of Suffolk. john Weyland, and jone his wife. Thomas, son of Richard Brews, Knight. Dame Alice, wife of Sir Walter Hardishall. Sir Walkin Hardesfield. Austin Valeyus, Ralph Wingfeld, Knight. Richard Bokyll of Leston, and Alice, and Alice his wives. Sir Henry Harnold Knight and Friar. The grey Friars of Dunwich was founded first by Richard Fitz-Iohn and Alice his wife, 〈◊〉 in the black Friars of Dunwich. and after by King Henry the third: of which I have no further knowledge. Herein lay interred the bodies of Sir Robert Valence, the Heart of Dame Hawise Ponyngs. Dame Ideu of Ylketishall. Sir Peter Mellis, and Dame Anne his wife. Dame Dunne his mother. john Francans, and Margaret his wife. Dame Bert of Furnivall .... Austin of Cales, and jone his wife. john Falley●, and Beatrix his wife, Augustine his son .... Wilex●es. Sir Hubert Dernford. Katherine, wife of William Phellip, Margaret, wife of Richard Phellip. Peter Codum. I had the notes of these buried in these Monasteries, as also of diverse other Monasteries in Suffolk and Norfolk, out of the painful collections of William le Neve Esquire, York Herald, truly copied out of the ancient originals thereof, remaining in his custody. Bury Saint Edmunds, or Saint Edmundsbury. This Town seemeth (saith Camden) to have been of famous memory, considering that▪ when Christian Religion began to spring up in this tract, king Sigebert here founded a Church, The foundation of the first Church in Bury. The first foundation of the Abbey by the common people. and it was called Villam Regiam, that is, a royal town. But after that the people had translated hither the body of Edmund, that most christian King, whom the Danes with exquisite torments had put to death, and built in honour of him, a very great Church, wrought with a wonderful frame of timber: it began to be called Edmundi Burgus, commonly Saint Edmundsbury, and more shortly, Bury. But especially since that King Canutus, for to expiate the sacrilegious impiety of his Father Suenus against this Church, being often affrighted with a vision of the seeming-ghost of Saint Edmund, The second by K Can●●e. built it again of a new work, enriched it, offered his own Crown unto the holy Martyr, brought unto it, Monks with their Abbot, and gave unto it many fair and large Manors, and among other things, the Town itself full and whole: over which, the Monks themselves by their Seneschal had rule and jurisdiction. Thus Knuts Charter began. In nomine Poliarchie jesu Christi saluatoris. Ex Arch Turr. Lend. Ego Knut Rex totius Albionis Insule aliarumque nationum plurimarum, in Cathedra regali promotus, cum concilio & decreto Archiepiscoporum, Episcoporum, Abbatum, Comitum, aliorumque omnium fidelium meorum, elegisanciendum & perpeti stabilimento ab omnibus confirmandum, ut Monasterium quod * Bederics Court, Farm, or mansion house. Budrices Yurthe nuncupatur sit per omne ewm Monachorum gregibus deputatum ad inhabitandum, etc. After a long recital of his many donations, corroborations, privileges, and confirmations of former grants, he ends with an Additament, of fish and fishing. Huic libertati concedo additamentum, scilicet maritimos pisces qui mihi contingere debent annualiter per Thelonei lucrum, et Piscationem quam Vlskitel habuit in Pilla. et omnia iura, etc. These gifts, to this Abbey, as to the most of all others, were finally concluded with a fearful curse to the infringers thereof, and a blessing to all such that did any way better her ample endowments: the Charter is signed with the mark, which is the cross, and the consent of thirty and five witnesses, of which a few, as followeth. ✚ Ego Knut Rex, etc. hoc privilegium iussi componere, & compositum cum signo Dominice crucis confirmando impressi. ✚ Ego Aelgifa Regina omni alacritate mentis hoc confirmavi. ✚ Ego Wuls●anus Archiepiscopus consensi. ✚ Ego Adelnodus confirma●i etc. Camd. in Suss. After Knut, one Harvey, the Sacrist coming of the Norman blood, compassed the Burgh round about with a wall, whereof there remain still some few relics, and Abbot Newport walled the Abbey. The Bishop of Rome endowed it with very great immunities, and among other things granted, That the said place should be subject to no Bishop in any matter, and in matters lawful to depend upon the pleasure and direction of the Archbishop, which is yet observed at this day. And now by this time the Monks abounding in wealth, erected a new Church, of a sumptuous and stately building, enlarging it every day more than other with new works, and whiles they laid the Foundation of a new Chapel, in the reign of Edward the first, There were found (as Euersden a Monk of this place writeth) the walls of a certain old Church, Euersden. built round, so, as that the Altar stood (as it were) in the mids, and we verily think, saith he, it was that which was first built to Saint service. But what manner of town this was, and how great the Abbey was while it stood, Leland. hear Leland speak, who saw it standing. The Sun, saith he, hath not seen either a City more finely seated, (so delicately standeth it upon the easy ascent, or hanging of an hill, and a little river runneth down on the East side thereof) or a goodlier Abbey; whether a man indifferently consider, either the endowment with revenues, or the largeness, or the incomparable magnificence thereof. A man that saw the Abbey would say verily it were a City: so many gates there are in it, and some of brass, so many Towers, & a most stately Church: upon which, attend * Now but two. three others also standing gloriously in one and the same Church yard; all of passing fine and curious workmanship. If you demand how great the wealth of this Abbey was, a man could hardly tell, & namely how many gifts and oblations were hung upon the tomb alone of Saint Edmund: and besides, there came in, out of lands and reuenue●, a thousand, five hundred and threescore pounds of old rent by the year. The Abbot and Covent of the Monastery, governed the Townsmen and all within Banna Leuca, within the bounds of a mile from the town, by their Steward, who ever gave the oath to the new elect Alderman: which was delivered in these words following: copied out of a Lieger book sometimes belonging to the said Abbey. The oath of the Alderman of Bury. Ye schall swear that ye schall bear you truly and fethfully in the Office of the Aldermanscipe of this Town of Bury; against the Abbot and the Covent of this place, and all her mynistris: ye scall bear, keep and maintain Pees to your power, and ye schall nor thing appropre, nor accroche that longyth to the said Abbot and Covent▪ nor take upon the thyngiss that long on to the Office of the Baylishchipp of the said Town. Alsoo that ye schall not procure be you, nor be noon othir, privyly, nor openly any thing unlawful, that might be harm or damage onto the said Abbot and Covent, nor suffer to be done, but that ye schall be ready to meynteyn and defend them and here mynystris yn all the ryghtis and customs that of dew long on to them, inasmoche as ye mey leyfully do. These articles and poyntiss ye schall observe and keep the tim that ye stand in this office. So help you God, and all his Seynts, and be this Book. Notwithstanding this oath, The broil between the Townsmen, the Abbot, and Covent of Bury. the Townsmen, now and then, fell so foul upon the Abbot and Covent, that they imprisoned the Abbot, struck the Monks with the Bailiffs and Officers belonging to the Abbey, assaulted the Abbey gates, set fire on them, and burned them with diverse houses near adjoining, that belonged to the Monastery. They burned a Manor of the Abbots, called holderness Barn; with two other Manors, called the Almoners barn, and Haberdone, also the Granges that stood without the South-gate, and the Manor of Westlie, in which places they burnt in corn and grain, to the value of a thousand pounds. They entered into the Abbey court, and burned all the houses on the north side; as Stables, Brewhouses, Garners, and other such necessary houses: They burned the Mote hall, and Bradford hall, with the new hall, and diverse Chambers and Sollars to the same halls annexed, with the Chapel of Saint Laurence, at the end of the Hospital hall; also the Manor of Eldhall, the Manor of Horninger, with all the corn and grain within and about the same. Assembling themselves together in warlike order and array, they assaulted the said Abbey, broke down the gates, windows, and doors, entered the house by force, and assailing certain Monks and servants that belonged to the Abbot, did beat, wound, and evil entreat them; broke open a number of chests, coffers, and forssets, took out Chalices of gold and silver, books, vestments, and other ornaments of the Church, beside a great quantity of rich plate, and other furniture of household apparel, armour, and other things, beside five hundred pounds in ready coin, and also three thousand Florins of gold. All these things they took and carried away, together with diverse Charters, Writings, and Miniments; as three Charters of King Knute, four Charters of King Hardicanute, one Charter of King Edward the Confessor, two Charters of King Henry the first, and other two Charters of King Henry the third; which Charters concerned as well the Foundation of the same Abbey, as the grants and confirmations of the possessions and liberties thereunto belonging. Many more are the outrages committed at several times by the Townsmen, against these cloistered brethren; which are recorded in the foresaid Lieger book of S. Edmund's bury: all which to relate, would seem incredible, and make this my digression, I confess, too much overlong and troublesome, thus then to return. The Dedication, the Foundation, the time, and the Founders, and the value of this Religious structure may be partly gathered by the premises; it was replenished with Monks Benedictines, or as some say, Cluniacks: it was surrendered into the King's hands the fourth of November, in the one and thirtieth year of Henry the eight. Relics in the Abbey Church, out of a book called Compend. Com. pertorum, in the treasury of the Exchequer. Amongst other Relics, the Monks of this Church had Saint Edmund's shirt; certain drops of Saint Stephen's blood which sprung from him at such time as he was stoned, and some of the coals with which Saint Laurence was broiled. They had certain parings of the flesh of diverse holy Virgins, and a sinew of Saint Edmund laid up in boxes. They had some Skulls of ancient Saints and Martyrs, amongst which was one of Saint Petronill, or Pernell, which the country people were taught to lay to their heads, thereby to be cured of all kind of agues. They had the boots of Saint Thomas of Canterbury, and the sword of Saint Edmund. Aniles Fabulae. It was in use here amongst the Monks, as often as they desired rain, to carry with them, in their Processions, a coffin wherein the bones of Saint Botolph were enclosed, hoping thereby the sooner to have pleasant showers to refresh the dry parched earth. They had certain wax candles, which ever and only they used to light in wheat-seeding; these they likewise carried about their wheat grounds, believing verily that hereby neither Darnell, Tares, nor any other noisome weeds would grow that year amongst the good corn. These Relics they had, and many more, which wrought many strange effects, by their own relation. The Abbots of this house were Barons of the Parliament. But now to come to the burials of certain worthy personages in this Abbey Church of Bury, and first. S. Edmund, King and Martyr. Here lay sometimes enshrined, the sacred Remains of Edmund, King of the East Angles, and Martyr; who was the son of one Alkmund, a Prince of great power in these parts. In the reign of this King Edmund, Hunger, & Hubba, two Danish Captains, with an innumerable multitude of Heathen Danes, entered the Land at the mouth of Humber, and from thence invaded Nottingham, York and Northumberland, where (without respect of age or sex) they laid all waist, Speed Hist ca 11 and left the Land, whence they departed, like to a desolate wilderness. From thence they came with the like fury into Edmund's territories, and sacked Thetford, a frequent city in those days: but he not able to withstand their violence, fled into ●his Castle at Framingham, wherein he was of them besieged, and lastly taken in a village, then called * now Hoxon. Heglisdune, of a wood bearing the same name, or rather yielded himself to their torments, to save more christian blood; for it is recorded, that because of his most constant Faith and profession, those Pagans first beat him with bats, then scourged him with whips, he still calling upon the name of jesus: for rage whereof, they bound to a stake, and with their arrows shot him to death; and cutting off his head, contemptuously threw it into a bush, after he had reigned over the East Angles the space of sixteen years. Camden, out of Abbo Floriacensis, saith, that the bloody Danes having bound this most christian King to a tree, for that he would not renounce christianity, shot him with sharp arrows all his body over, augmenting the pains of his torment, with continual piercing him with arrow after arrow, and thus inflicted wound upon wound, so long as one arrow could stand by another, as a Poet of middle time versified of him: I am loca vulneribus desunt, nec dum furiofis Tela, sed hyberna grandine plura volant. Though now no place was left for wound, yet arrows did not fail, These surious wretches, still they fly thicker than winter hail. His body and head, after the Danes were departed, were buried at the same royal Town, as Abbo terms it, where Sigebert the East Anglean King, and one of his predecessors at his establishing of Christianity, built a Church, and where afterwards (in honour of him) was built another most spacious, and of a wonderful frame of Timber, and the name of the Town upon that occasion of his burial, called unto this day, Saint Edmundsbury: This Church and place, (to speak more fully to that which I have written before) Suenus the Pagan Danish King, in impiety and fury, burned to ashes. But when his son Canute, or Knute, had made conquest of this Land, and gotten possession of the English Crown, terrified and affrighted (as saith the Legend) with a vision of the seeming Saint Edmund, in a religious devotion to expiate his Father's sacrilege, built it anew most sumptuously, enriched this place with Charters and Gifts, and offered his own Crown upon the Martyr's Tomb; of whom for a conclusion, take these verses following. Vtque cruore suo Gallos' Dionysius ornat Ex lib. Abb. de Russ. in bib. Col. Grecos Demetrius; gloria quisque sui●: Sic nos Edmundus nulli virtute secundus; Lux patet & patrie gloria magna sue. Sceptra manum, Diadema capud, sua purpura corpus, Ornat ei sed plus vincula, mucro, cruor. The 20. day of November, S. Robert Martyr, ex lib. Abb. de chateris in bib Cot. in our Calendar, was kept holy in remembrance of this King and Martyr. Puer Robertus apud Sanctum Edmundum a judeis fuit Martirazatus, 4. Id. junij An. 1179. et illic sepultus. Alanus Comes Britannie obijt An. 1093. & his iacet ad hostium australe Sancti Edmundi: Alan, Earl of Britain and Kichmond. Milles Catal. Rich. ex eod, lib. de chateris. This Allan here buried (or as some will have it in the monastery of Rhedon) surnamed the Red, or Fergaunt, was the son of Eudo, Earl of Britain, and entered England with William the Conqueror (his Father in Law.) To whom the said Conqueror gave the honour and County of Edwin, within the County and Province of York, by his Charter in these words: I William, (surnamed Bastard, King of England) give and grant to thee my Nephew Allan, Earl of Britain, and to thy heirs for ever, all those Villages, Towns, and Lands which were late in possession of Earl Edwin in Yorkshire, with knight's fees, Churches, and other liberties and customs, as freely and honourably as the said Edwin held them. Given at the siege before York. Alban being a man of an high spirit, and desirous to govern the Province entirely which he had received, The building of Richmond Castle. built a strong Castle by Gillingham (a village which he possessed) by which he might defend himself, not only against the English, who were spoiled of their goods and lands, but also against the fury and invasions of the Danes. When the work was finished, he gave it the name of Richmond, of purpose, either for the greatness and magnificence of the place, or for some Castle in little Britain of the same name. Tho. Plantagenet Earl of Norfolk. Here sometimes, under a goodly Monument in the Choir of this Abbey Church, lay interred the body of Thomas, surnamed of Brotherton, the place of his birth, the fifth son of Edward the first, after the Conquest, king of England, by Margaret his second wife, the eldest daughter of Philip king of France, surnamed the Hardy. Vincent. Catal. Norf. He was created Earl of Norfolk, and made Earl Martial of England, by his half brother King Edward the second, which Earldoms Roger Bigod (the last of that surname Earl of Norfolk, and Earl Martial) leaving no issue, left to the disposition of the king his Father. This Earl died in the year of our redemption 1338. Here lay buried the body of Thomas Beauford (son of john of Gaunt, begotten of the Lady Katherine Swyneford his third wife) who by King Henry the fourth was made Admiral, Tho. Beauford Duke of Exeter. than Captain of Calis, and afterwards Lord Chancellor of England. He was created by the said King Earl of Perch in Normandy, and Earl of Dorlet in England. And lastly in the fourth year of King Henry the fifth, he was created Duke of Exeter, and made knight of the order of the Garter. He had the leading of the Rearward at the battle of Agincourt, and the government of king Henry the sixth, appointed to that office by the foresaid Henry the fifth on his deathbed. He valiantly defended Harflew in Normandy (whereof he was governor) against the Frenchmen, and in a pitched field encountering the Earl of Armiguar put him to flight. He died at his House of East Greenwich in Kent, upon Newyeares' day the fifth of Henry the sixth: for whom all England mourned, saith Milles: Marry Queen of France. The body of Mary Queen of France, widow of Lewis the twelfth: daughter of King Henry the 7. and sister to king Henry the eight, was here in this Abbey Church entombed. After the death of Lewis (with whom she lived not long) she married that Marshal and pompous Gentleman, Charles' Brandon Duke of Suffolk. She died on Midsummer Eeve, 1533. john Boon Abbot of Bury. john Boon, Abbot of this Monastery, had his tomb and interrement here in this Church; who died in the beginning of February, in the ninth year of the reign of king Edward the fourth, as appears by the said kings Conged'eslire or permission royal to the Prior and Covent of this House to make choice of another Abbot, as followeth. Out of a Lieger book of the Abbey. Edwardus Dei gratia Rex Anglie, Francie, & Dominus Hibernie, dilect is sibi in Christo Priori & Conuentui Monasterij de Bury Sancti Edmundi, Salutem. Ex parte vestra nobis est humiliter supplicatum ut cum Monasterium vestrum predict. per mortem bone memorie johannis Boon nuper Abbatis ibidem, Pastoris solacio sit destitut. alium vobis eligendi in Abbatem & Pastorem eiusdem Monasterij licenciam vobis concedere dignaremus. Nos precibus vestris in hac parte favorabiliter inclinati, licenciam illam vobis tenore presencium duximus concedend. Mondantes quod talem vobis eligatis in Abbatem & Pastorem, qui Deo devotus, Ecclesie vestre predict. necessarius, nobisque regno nostro utilis et fidelis existat. In cuius rei testimonium has literas nostras fieri fecimus patentes. Teste me ipso apud Westmonast. nono die Februarij, Anno regni nostri nono. Per breve de Privato Sigillo, & de dat. predict. auctoritate Parliamenti. Fryston. Now hear a word or two of the word Conged'eslire out of the Interpreter. cowel lit. C. Conged'eslire, Conged'eslire. id est, venia eligendi, leave to choose: is a mere French word, and signifieth in our Common Law, the King's permission royal to a Dean and Chapter in time of vacation to choose a Bishop; or to an Abbey or Priory to choose their Abbot or Prior. Fitz. nat. br. fol. 169. B. 170. B C, etc. Touching this matter M. Gwin in the Preface to his Readins saith, That the king of England, as Sovereign Patron of all Archbishoprickes, Bishoprickes, and other Ecclesiastical Benefices, had of ancient time free appointment of all Ecclesiastical Dignities, whensoever they chanced to be void, investing them per Baculum et Annulum, id est, with a Staff and a Ring, and afterward by his Letters Patents: And that in process of time he made the election over to others, under certain forms and conditions: as namely, that they should at every vacation, before they choose, demand of the king Gonged'eslire, that is, licence and leave to proceed to election; and then after the election, to crave his royal assent, etc. And further, he affirmeth by good proof out of Common Law books, that king john was the first that granted this, and that it was afterward confirmed by Westm. pri. cap. which Statute was made Anno 3. Ed. primi. And again by the Statute Articuli Clerica. 2. which was ordained Anno 25. Ed. 3. Statuto tertio. Sir William Elmham, Sir William Spencer, Sir William Fresill, qui obijt Anno 1357. William Lee Esquire, and his wife, daughter of Harlestone; lay here interred. The famous Poet, and the most learned Monk of this monastery, was here interred. I mean john Lidgate, so called of a small village not far off where he was borne. john Lidgate Monk. A village (saith Camden) though small, yet in this respect, not to be passed over in silence, because it brought into the world, john Lidgate the Monk, whose wit may seem to have been framed and shapen by the very muses themselves: so brightly reshine in his English verses, all the pleasant graces and elegancy of speech, according to that age, having traveled through France and Italy, to learn the languages and Arts. Erat autem non solum elegans Poeta, et Rhetor disertus, verum etiam Mathematicus expertus, Philosophus acutus, et Theologus non contemnendus: For he was not only an elegant Poet, and an eloquent Rhetorician, but also an expert Mathematician, an acute Philosopher, and no mean Divine, saith Pitseus; you may know further of him in his Prologue to the story of Thebes; a Tale, as his fiction is) which (or some other) he was constrained to tell, at the command of mine Host of the Tabard in Southwark, whom he found in Canterbury, with the rest of the Pilgrims which went to visit Saint Thomas Shrine. This story was first written in Latin by Geffrey Chaucer, and translated by Lidgate into English verse: but of the Prologue, of his own making, so much as concerns himself, thus. ....... while that the pilgrims ley At Canterbury, well lodged one and all * I know not. I not in sooth what I may it call, Hap or Fortune, in conclusioun, That me befell to enter into the town. The holy Saint plainly to visit, After my sickness, vows to acquit. In a cope of black, and not of green, On a Palfrey slender, long, and lean, With rusty bridle, made not for the sale, My man to forne with a void male, That by Fortune took mine Inn anon Where the Pilgrims were lodged everyone. The same time her governor the host standing in Hall, full of wind and boast, Liche to a man wonder stern and fers, Which spoke to me, and said anon dan Pers, Dan Dominicke dan Godfray, or Clement Ye be welcome newly into Kent: Though your bridle have nother boos ne bell; Beseeching you that ye will tell First of your name, and what country Without more shortly that ye be, That look so pale, all devoid of blood, Upon your head a wonder threadbare hood, Well arrayed for to ride late: I answered my name was Lidgate, Monk of Bury, me fifty year of age, Come to this town to do my pilgrimage As I have * Promised. height, I have thereof no shame: Dan john (qd he) well brook ye your name, Though ye be sole, beeth right glad and light, Praying you to soup with us this night; And ye shall have made at your devis, A great pudding, or a round hagis A franche * A dish made of marrow and grated bread. moil, a tanse, or a * A Pancake. froise, To been a Monk slender is your * Cowremnet coise Ye have been sick I dare mine head assure, Or let feed in a faint pasture: Lift up your head, be glad, take no sorrow, And ye should home ride with us to morrow I say, when ye rested have your fill. After supper, sleep will done none ill, Wrap well your head, clothes round about, Strong * Nappy Ale. nottie ale will make a man to rout, Take a pillow that ye lie not low, If need be, spare not to blow, To hold wind by mine opinion, Will engender colles passion, And make men to greven on her * Gu●●● rops When they have filled her maws and her crops. But toward night, eat some Fennel read, Annis, Commin, or Coriander seed, And like as I have power and might, I charge you, rise not at midnight, Though it be so the Moon shine clear, I will myself be your * Clock: Orlogere, To morrow early when I see my time, For we will forth parcel afore prime. Accompany * Verily. pard shall do you good. Thus, when the Host had cheered up Lidgate with these fair promises and wholesome admonitions for his health, he lays his commands upon him in these terms following. What, look up Monk, for by Cock's blood Thou shalt be merry, who so that say nay, For to morrow anon as it is day, And that it gin in the East to daw, Thou shalt be bound to a new law, At going out of Canterbury town, And lain aside thy professioun, Thou shalt not cheese, nor thyself withdraw, If any mirth be found in thy maw, Like the custom of this company, For none so proud that dare me deny, Knight * Nor Squire. nor Knave, canon, Priest, ne Nun To tell a tale plainly as they con, When I assign, and see time oportune; And for that we our purpose will contune, We will homeward the same custom use, And thou shalt not plainly thee excuse: Be now well ware, study well to night, But for all that, be thou of heart light, Thy wit shall be the sharper and the bet. But I run too far with these rhymes, it is time to return. Scripsit partim Anglicè partim Latinè, partim prosa partim versu libros numero plures, erudition politissimos. He writ partly English, partly Latin, partly in prose, & partly in verse; many exquisite learned books saith Pitseus, which are mentioned by him and Bale, as also in the latter end of Chaucer's works the last edition. He flourished in the reign of Henry the sixth, and departed this world, (aged about threescore years) circiter An. 1440. upon whose tomb this Epitaph following is said to have been engraven. Mortuus seclo, superis superstes, Hic iacet Lidgat tumulatus urna: Qui fuit quondam celebru Britanne Fama Poësis. These and infinite many other worthy personages here, in this Abbey Church entombed, were by King Henry the eight, utterly overthrown; what time, as at one clap he suppressed all monasteries, persuaded thereto by such as under a goodly pretence of reforming Religion, preferred their private respects, and their own enriching, before the honour of Prince and Country, yea, and before the glory of God himself. Saint Mary's Church in the Abbey yard. This Parish Church is wondrous ancient, built in the very infancy of christian Religion, in the days of Felix the first Bishop of the East-Angles, as I have it out of a Lieger book sometimes belonging to the Abbey, in these words. The antiquity of S. Mary's. Arbitror quod parochia ville a tempore antiquo in memoria Sancte Marie Virgins fuerit constructa: videlicet, ab initio prime Christianitatis istius provincy, et a tempore primi predicatoris felicis memory, & sanctissimi Episcopi Felicis Orientalium Saxonum. The funeral monuments in this Church are almost all defaced, especially such as are of any antiquity. Upon one Tomb there remaineth only these few words, for the memory of Roger Drury, Esquire, and Agnes his wife, he died 1472. and she, 1445. Drury and Agnes his wife. ........ Drury ....... Such as ye be, sometym were we, Such as we are, such shall ye be. At Ikesworth, at Haulsteed, near to Rougham, and else where the family of Drury, (which signifieth in old English, a Precious jewel) hath been of great respect and good note, especially since they married with the heirs of Fressill, and Saxam, faith Camden in this tract. Sir William Drury. This name is much honoured by Sir William Drury Knight, Lord Precedent of Munster, and Lord chief justice of all Ireland, as you may read in the continuation of the Irish Chronicle, penned by john Vowel, alias Hooker, where his valiant good services at Muttrell, Boulogne, and Callais in France: at the commotion in Devonshire, at Berwick being Provost Martial, and at the besieging and taking of Edenborrough Castle, where he was general of the Army, are set down at large: this man lieth buried at Dublin in Ireland. Sir Robert Drury Knight, Sir Robert, and Sir William Drury. here lieth entombed, who deceased in the year, 1520. as appeareth on his monument. Sir William Drury Knight, deceased the 27. of july, in the year 1525. as aforesaid appeareth. Roger Drury Esquire, obijt an. 1472. Agnes, wife of Roger Drury, obijt an. 1445. Dame jane, wife of ... Drury. Sir Edmond Wancy Knight, obijt an. 1372. Dame Ela Stanley, obijt an. 1457. William at Lee Esquire. Robert Peyton, Esquire, obijt an. ... john Smith, Esquire. Orate pro ..... Willelmi Carew, Sir William Carew Knight, and Margaret his wife. militis & Margarete consortis sue, ..... ille obijt 26. Maij, 1501. illa. .... 1525. .... john Carew Armig. & Margareta .... 1425. Carew Castle in Penbrokeshire gave both name and original to the notable family de Carew, Io. Carew, and Marg. his wife. Videses Camd. in Penbrokeshire saith Camden, who avouch themselves to have been called aforetime de Montgomery, and have been persuaded that they are descended from that Arnolph de Montgomery, who won Penbrokeshire; who, by some, is reckoned amongst the Earls of that County. Of this ancient surname (rightly honoured by the King in creating George Carew, Earl of Totnes, Lord Baron of Clopton) I shall have occasion to speak in diverse other places. Buria quem Dominum ac Abbatem noverit olim, Illius hic recubant osso sepulta viro. Suffolce Melfor da nomen nato johannem Io. Kemis Abbot of Bury the last. Dixerunt Kemis, progeny, atque pater. Magnanimus, prudens, doctus suit atque benignus, Integer, et Voti Religionis amans. Regni qui cum Henrici Octavi viderat annum Ter decimum ac primum Martius atque dies. Vnum terque decem .... flamine terras Occidit. O anime parce benign Deus. 1540 Within the compass of an heart in brass under the Communion table these words only remaining. Orate pro .... Elis. Shantlow ... 1457. Elis. Shantlow. IHUS. Here is an old Monument under which (as I was told) one jenkin Smith Esquire, Io. Smith. lieth interred: a great Benefactor to this Church. Subiacet hic stratus john Finers sic vocitatus Io. Fi●er● ... Diaconus quondam Subburie factus. Further I find these persons following to have been here interred. Sir Edmond Wancy knight, obijt ann. 1372. Dame Ela Stanley obiit an. 1457. Dame jane wife of .... Drury Robert Peyton Esquire, obijt an .... William Attelee Esquire. The College in Bury. The Chatter of Ed. 4. for the Foundation. Ex lib. Abbatie de Bury. Edwardus Dei gratia Rex Anglie & Francie, et Dominus Hibernie, omnibus ad quos presentes litere pervenerint. Salutem. Sciatis quod nos de gratia nostra speciali, & obsinceram devotionem quam ad sanctam & individuam T●initatem, ac dulcissimum nomen jesu, gloriosissimamque Dei genitricem Mariam, nec non omnes sanctos gerimus, et habemus; concessimus, & licentiam dedimus, ac per presentes concedimus et licentiam damus, pro nohis et heredibus nostris, quantum in nobis est, dilectis nobis Henrico Hardman Clerico, Thome Ampe Clerico, Richardo Taxleo, Willelmo Thewts, Clementi Clerk, Ade Newhawe, et Radulpho Duke quod ipsi, aut eorum aliquis, vel aliqui executores et assignati sui seu eorum alicuius, ad laudem gloriam & Honorem Dei ac dicti dulcissimi nominis jesu, quandam Cantariam ac Gildam perpetuam de uno custode & societate Capellanorum, ac Fratribus et Sororibus de Gilda illa esse volentibus divina singulis diebus in villa de Bury Sancti Edmundi in Com. Suff. ad specialiter exorand. pro salubri statu nostro, et preclarissime consortis nostre Elisabethe Regine Anglie, et precarissimorum filiorum nostrorum Edwardi primogeniti Principis Wallie et Richardi Ducis Ebor. ceterorumque liberorum nostrorum, nec non dictorum Henrici Thome, Richardi, Willelmi, Clementis, Ade, et Radulphi, dum vixerimus, et pro animabus nostris cum ab hac luce migraverimus; ac pro animabus Willelmi Coat clerici, johannis Smyth nuper de Bury Sancti Edmundi Armigeri, et Anne uxoris eius: ac pro animabus parentum, benefactorum, et quorumcunque Fratrum, et Sororum de Gilda predicta existencium seu esse volencium, et successorum suorum, et animabus omnium fidelium defunctorum imperpetuum celebratur. aliaque pietatis et miserecordie opera, iuxta ordinationes, stabilimenta, et constitutiones per presentes, Hen. Tho. Rich. Will. Clem. Adam, et Radulph. seu eorum aliquem heredes, execusiue assignatos suos predict. seu corumaliquos, vel aliquem in hac parte faciend. factur. ac subitur. ac quandam mansionem pro eisdem custode et Capellanis infra dictam villam de Bury Sancti Edmundi facere, fund●re, erigere, creare, et stabilire possint. Et quod Canteria et Gilda ille, cum sic sacte fundate, erecte, This College dedicated to the honour & name of jesus. create et stabilite fuerint Cantaria et Gilda dulcissimi nominis jesu infra villam de Bury Sancti Edmundi in Com. Suff. perpetuis suturis temporibus nuncupentur, et appellentur. Et quod custo set Societas Capellanorum ac fratres et sorores Cantarie et Gildae predict. et successores sui, custos et societas Capellanorum, ac fratres et sorores Cantarie et Gilde dulcissimi nominis jesu infra villam de Bury Sancti Edmundi in perpetuum vocentur, habeantque successionem perpetuam, ac commune Sigillum sibi et successoribus suit custodibus et societati Capellanorum ac fratribus et sororibus Cantarie et Gilde predictarum, etc. The Foundere. He gives liberty to the foresaid Henry, Thomas, Richard, William, Clement, Adam, and Ralph, to endow the said College with lands, The value. to the value of twenty pounds per annum, ultra reprisas, and such lands as were not holden of the king in Capite. The time of the foundation He also grants many privileges and immunities to the said College, too long here to rehearse. In cuius rei Testimonium has literas nostras fieri fecimus patentes. T. me ipso apud Westmonasterium, quinto die Novembris. Anno Regni nostri vicesimo primo. Per ipsum Regem et de dat. predict. auctoritate Parliamenti, et pro sexaginta et undecim libris solicitis in Hanapario. Mortonus. This religious Foundation, The definition of a chantry and of a Guild. as it is in the Charter, was called a chantry, and a Guild. Cantaria est Aedes sacra: ideo instituta et dotata praedijs, ut Missa ibidem Cantaretur pro anima fundatoris, et propinquorum eius, saith Sir Hen. Spelman, Glossar. lit. C. A chantry is a sacred Edifice, therefore instituted and endowed with possessions, that Mass might there be song for the soul of the Founder, and his kindred. Gilda est societas quorundam, Id. Hen. Spelman lit. G. pura charitatis, religionis, vel mercaturae gratia confaederatorum. A Gilled is a society of certain persons confederated or living together, for the only pure cause of charity, Religion, or for the trade of Merchandise. It is a College, a sodality, or fellowship; a brotherhood, or company incorporate: or it is an adunation, or a commonalty of men gathered into one combination, supporting their common charge by a mutual consent. In the year and on the day of the month of a great part of this Town of Bury was burnt down to the ground. Upon the rebuilding whereof on the Frontispiece of one of the Houses this distich following is in golden letters. Vt Prior illa domus violento corruit igne, Haec stet, dum flammis terra polusque flagrent. 1609. Kediton, or Kedington. In the South window of this Church is to be seen a Barnardiston kneeling in his complete armour, his coat-armour on his breast, and behind him seven sons. In the next pane of the glass is Elisabeth the daughter of Newport, kneeling with her coat-armour likewise on her breast, and seven daughters behind her▪ and under it is thus written, now much defaced. Orate pro animabus Thome Barnardiston militis, et Elisabethe uxoris eius, qui istam fenestram fieri fecerunt, Anno Domini M. ccccc .... anima ..... Deus, Amen. Over against the said South window, under the second Arch of the said South side of the Church, is the Monument of the said Sir Thomas Barnardiston in stone at length, in his complete armour, and the said Dame Elisabeth his wife by him. And in a table of stone, under their coat-armours, this Epitaph or Inscription. This is the Monument of Sir Thomas Barnardiston knight, Sir Tho. Barnardiston and Elis. his wife. bey buried in Corys in the County of Lincoln, and of Dame Elisabeth his wife buryd undre this tomb: which Sir Thomas by his last will gave certain londis in the town called Brokholes, of the yearly value of seven marks towards the mantenens of a Cantrie in this Church: and the said Dame Elisabeth after his death optened lyeens to a mortyse the said Cantrie perpetually, and made the possessions thereof, to the yearly value of xii marks, and besides built the Church roif new, and covered it with lead. Which Dame Elysabeth died the .... day of. ... Anno Domini M. cccccxx. ... On the North side of the said Church is a very fair Monument or tomb, with the portraiture of another Sir Thomas Barnardiston, and his Lady Elisabeth, who died not long since. Barnardiston. In the second window of the North side of this Church is to be seen a Barnardiston kneeling in his complete armour, and his coat-armour on his breast, and upon both his shoulders, the writing under him is wholly-perished: over him is written .... Non Peccata nostra .... nobis. ..... This seems to be very ancient. Ixworth, or Ikesworth. The foundation of Ikesworth Priory. Here sometimes stood an ancient Priory founded by Gilbert Blund, a man of great Nobility, and Lord of Ikesworth, whose issue male, by the right line, ended in William, that in king Henry the third his days, was slain in the battle at Lewis, and left two sisters his heirs, Agnes wife to William de Creketot, Cam. in Suff. and Roise wedded to Robert de Valonijs, saith Camden. This Priory was valued to be yearly worth two hundred and fourscore pounds, nine shillings five pence. Clare. Here stood a religious House of Augustine Friars, whose Foundation may be gathered out of certain rythmicall lines, which not many years since, I copied out of an ancient Roll, as then in the custody of my dear deceased Friend, Aug. Vincent, Windsor Herald; the Rubric, or the Title in red letters, of this Roll, is as followeth. This Dialogue betwixt a secular ask, and a Frere answering, at the grave of Dame johan of Acres; showeth the lineal descent of the Lordis of the honour of Clare, fro the time of the foundation of the Freeris in the same honour, the year of our Lord a M.ccxlviii. unto the first of May, the year, a M. cccclx. The Pictures of the Secular Priest and the Friere are curiously limmed upon the Parchment. The verses are both in Latin and English, and being in both good, I think it good to emprint them in both languages. Questio. Quis iacet hic? Respons. Nullus. Q. Quid tunc? R. est femina. Q. Cuiu. Filia tu michi dic. R. Ed. pri. post Con. mihi fert sic Cronica, si memorem dedit huic Hispania matrem. Q. Cognomen mihi das? R. de Acris sic dicta johanna. Q. Cur sic declara? R. quoniam fuit hec ibi nata. Hinc in honore tuo Vincenti pectore puro Qua cubat hanc bellam fundaverat ipse Capellam. Q. Nupta fuit nec ne? R. suit imo. Q. Cui? R. michi crede Gilberto Comiti Gloucester. Q. Quis pater illi? R. Nobilis et nardus redolens fuit iste Richardus, Qui quos dilexit Heremitas trans mare vexit Ordinis egregij, doctoris nomen et illi Augustinus erat, quos Princeps ipse fovebat, Ob merita Egidij dulcisque amore libelli, Quem de Regimine Procerum composuit ipse, Vt suus in regno noviter successeret ordo Anglor. hinc sit ei summe merces requiei. Q. Sedprecor ex latere fuit uxor que michi pande Istius eximij quem effers sic laude Ricardi? R. Hec fuit iliustris Domina et recolenda Matildis, Que postquam sponsum mors stravit seva Ricardum Particulis nostrum varijs prius undique structum Auxit fundamen. hinc merces ei detur. Amen. Q. Et que Gilberti fuit uxor dic michi primi Istorum heredis? R. Preclaris si mihi credis Ex Vlstris nata, fuit ipsa Matilda vocata; Vt monstrant arma maiori picta fenestra Ecclesie istius; fabricam de puluere cuius Munere magnifico fundarunt hij duo primo. Q. Num sterilis Domina fuerat prefata johanna? R. Non set femineo ditata est germine claro. Q. Nomen da que michi. R. fuit Elisabeth. Q. fuit illi Num Sponsus quisquans. R. fuit imo. Q. dicito quis nam. R. Ex Vlstris heres dictus de Burgo johannes Duxerat, hinc iuncta qua sunt Vl. Glou. simul arma, Vt patet in multis vitratis ecce fenestris, Capituli, Dormitorij, Refectorij que. Que loca trina suis fundavit sumptibus hec. Q. quis Muris adiecit tectum? R. sola omnia fecit. Q. Sanguinis egregij num rinulus affluit illis Affluit hinc clara fuit Elisabeth sibi nata Altera que egregio post .... Leonello. Ed. ter innato, post fataque sic tumulato Vt vides exigua pro tanto principe tumba Inque chori medio. Q. sednum tam clara propago Liquerat heredem? R. sic. Q quam dicas mihi prolem? R. Femineam. Q. quota fuit ipsa vocata. R. Philippe; Que comiti Edwardo le March data virgo marito, Rogerum genuit, hic Edmundum generavit, Edmundus sterilis obijt sine semine. Q. juris Ergo cui titulus huius cessit dominatus? R. Rogeri Nate. Q. Cuius dic nominis. R. Anne De Cambrigg Comiti nupsit quoque. Q. filius illi Num fuit? R. ut nardus redolens ..... imo Ricardus Huic nascebatur, patris qui iure vocatur Dux Eboracensis, cuius prefulgerat ensis Bellorum titulis, gl●riosis atque triumphis: Cuique natura donavit munera plura; Et fortuna suis hunc pinxit dotibus amplis: Gratia succurrat quoque longo tempore vinat Felici vita, virtutibus et redimita: Q. Coniugis aut solus extat Dux hic honorandus R. Absit ut hic tantus princeps sine coniuge solus Esset, nam nephas foret. Q. Ergo michi rogo dicas Quam duxit? R. Dominam te scire volo graciosam, Q. Nomen des huius: R. extat Cecilia. Q. cuius Filia declares fuerat? R. reor ultima proles Westmorlond comitis, sexus saltem muliebris. Quo non obstante, divino munere dante, Cunctis prelata sit honore sororibus ipsa. Q. Num sunt hijs soboles alique? R. sunt. Q. dic michi quales? R. Bis seen proles. Q. harum in nomine dones, Quomodo satate quo sint et in ordinenate R. Post annos steriles multos fit primula proles Anna decora satis, sed post hanc stirps probitatis Nascitur Henricus, cito quem virtutis amicus Cristus in arce poli fecit regnart perhenni. Prodiit Edwardus post hunc heres que futurus. Edmundus sequitur, hinc Elisabeth generatur. Post Margareta, Willelmus postera meta Fit pro presenti, donec sua minnera a ventri Det Deus hinc matris solite signum pietatis. Margaret post proles hinc Willelmus que johannes Quos raptus seculo statuit Deus almus Olympo, Ind Georgius est natus, Thomas que Ricardus. Thomas in fata successit sorte beata. Vltima iam matris proles fuit Ursula, regis Que summi voto celesti iungitur agno. Q. Optime naturam pinxisti, pande futuram Si scis fortunam. R. Dux Excester t●net Annam Vxorem, que comes March est Edward patris bears, Rotlonde Edmundus comes existit vocitatus. Tres reliquas proles solita pietate parents Tempore condigno titulabunt nomine digno. Istam progeniem soboles & utrumque parentem Omnipotens firmet, hast incolumes rogo seruet Temporibus longis, et secum vivere celis Prestet post faeta ducens ad galmata grata. Conferat hoc flamen pater et proles precor. Amen. The translation of these latin Numbers, into English Stanza's, as followeth, seemeth to have been composed at one and the same time, as appears by the Character. Question. What man lieth here say me sir Frere? Answer. No man. Q. What elliss? A It is a woman. Q. Whose daughter she was I would leaf hear. A. I will you tell sir liche as I can, King Edward the furst aftur the conquest began, As I have learned was her father And of spain borne was her mother. Q. What was her name? A Dame johan she hight Of Acris. Q. Why so declared would be? A. For there she say furst this world's light, Borne of her mother, as chronicles tell me: Wherefore in honour, O Uincent of the To whom she had singular affection, This Chapel she made in pure devotion. Q. Was she ought wedded to any wight? A. Yea Sir. Q. to whom? A. if I should not lie To Gilbert of Clare, the Earl by right Of Gloucestre. Q. Whos Son was he? A. sothley An other Gilbertis. Q. This genealogy I desire to know, wherefore tell me Who was his father? if it please the? A. This Gilbertis father was that noble knight Sir Richard of Clare: to say all and sum Which for Freris love that Giles hight, The first coming of Friars Augustine's into England. And his book cleped, De Regimine principum; Made furst Frere Augustine's to Ingelonde cum, Therein to duelle, and for that deed, In heaven God grant him joy to meed. Q. But leterally who was tell me. This Ricardis wiff whom thou preisest so? A. The Countess of Hereford and Mauld hight she, Which when death the knot had undo Of temporal spousaile, betwixt hem two, With diverse parcels encres●d our foundation, Liche as our Monumenties make declaration▪ Q. Of the furst Gilbert who was the wyff? A. Dame Mauld, a Lady full honourable Borne of the Ulsters as she with riff Her aarmes of glass in the Est gable, And for to God they would been acceptable, Her Lord and she with an holy intent, Made up our Chirche fro the fundament. Now to Dame johan turn we again Latter Gilbertis wyff, as to forne said is Which lieth here. Q. was she baryn? A. Nay sir. Q. Say me what fruit was this? A. A brawnshe of right great joy I wis Q. Man or woman? A. A Lady bright; Q. What was her name? A. Elisabeth she hight. Q. Who was her husband? A. Sir john of Burgh, Eire of the Ulstris; so conjoined be Ulstris arms and Gloucestris thurgh and thurgh, As showeth our windows in housis three, Dortour, chapter house, and Fraitour, which she Made out the ground, both plauncher and wall. Q. And who the roof? A. she alone did al. Q. Had she any Issue? A. Yea sir sickerly. Q. What? A. a doughtur. Q. what name had she? A. Liche her mother Elisabeth soothly. Q. Who evir the husband of her might be? A. King Edward's Son the third was he, Sir Lionel, which buried is her by, As for such a Prince too sympilly. Q. Left he onye fruit this Prince mighty? A. Sir yea, a doughtur and Philip she hight, Whom Sir Edmond Mortimer wedded truly, First Earl of the March, a manly knight. Whos Son sir Roger by title of right, Left heir another Edmonde again: Edmonde left noon but died barren. Right thus did cese of the Marchis blood The heir male. Q Whider passed the right Of the Marchis Londis? and in whom it stood I would fain learn, if that I might. A. Sir Roger myddil earl that noble Knight, Tweyn doughtris left of his blood royal; That one's issue deide, that othris hath al. Q. What hight that Lady whose issue had graze This Lordeschip to attain. A. Dame Anne I wis, To the Earl of Cambrigge and she wyff was. Which both be deed, God grant 'em bliss. But her Son Richard which yet liveth, is Duke of York by descent of his father, And hath Marchis londis by right of his mother. Q. Is he sole or married this Prince mighty? A. Sole; God forbid it were great pite. Q. Who hath he wedded? A. A gracious Lady. Q. What is her name I the prey tell me? A. Dame Cecile Sir. Q. Whos daughter was she? A. Of the Earl of UUestmrelonde I trow the yengest, And yet graze her fortuned to be the highest. Q. Is there any fruit betwixt 'em two? A. Yea sir, thonks be God full glorious. Q. Male or female? A. Sir both too, Q. The nombir of this progeny gracious, And the names to know I am desirous, The ordre eke of birth tell if thou kan, And I will evir be even thine owen man? A. Sir after the time of long bareynes' God first sent Anne which signifieth graze, In token that all her hearts heavens, He, as for bareynes would from 'em chase. Harry, Edward and Edmond each in his please Succedid, and after tweyn doughtris came Elisabeth and Margarete, and afterwards William. john after UUilliam nexte borne was, UUhiche be passed to God's graze. George was nexte, and after Thomas Borne was; which soon after did pace By the path of death; to the heavenly please Richard liveth yet, but the last of all Was Ursula to him whom God list call. To the Duke of exeter Anne married is In her tender youth: but my Lord Herry, God chosen hath to inherit heaven bliss, And left Edward to succeed temporally Now Earl of March, & Edmond of Rutlond sotheley Conute, byth' fortunabil to right high marriage: The other four stoned yet in their pupillage. Long moat he liven to God's pleasance, This high and mighty Prince in prosperity With virtue and vyctory god him advance Of all his enemies, and grant that he, And the noble Princes his wyff may see Her childres children or they hens wend And after this outelary the joy that never shall end. Amen. joan of Acres Countess of Gloucester and Herdord. The body of joan of Acres was here entombed, as you have already read: She was the second daughter of king Edward the first, and Queen Eleanor, borne in the first year of her father's reign, at a City in the Holy Land, sometime named Ptolomais, commonly called Acon, Acre, or Acres, where her mother remained during the wars that her father had with the Saracens. She was married at eighteen years of age, and outliving her first husband (nominated in the Roll) she degenerated so far in the election of another, as that she made choice of one Ralph de Monte-hermer sometimes her husbands and her servant. She died here at her Manor of Clare the tenth of May, in the year 1305. Edward Mont-hermer. Here likewise in the Austin Friars by his mother was interred the body of Edward Mont-hermer, eldest son of the foresaid Ralph Mounthermer (who having obtained the king's favour, had the title of Earl of Gloucester and Hertford) and joan of Acres. He died without issue, the time uncertain. Lionel Duke of Clarence, & Elis. his wife. Lionel, or Leonell Duke of Clarence, and Earl of Ulster in Ireland, was buried in the Chancel of this Priory Church, together with his first wife Elisabeth, daughter and heir of William de Burgh, Earl of Ulster aforesaid, as appeareth in the parchment Roll. She departed this world in the year 1363. And he about five years afterwards, as I shall hereafter show. This Lionel, surnamed of Antwerp, the place of his birth, was the third son of king Edward the third; Harding c. 187. In all the world was then no Prince him like Of high stature, and of all seemliness The character of Leonell Duke of Clarence. Above all men within his hole kyngrike By the shoulders, he might be seen doubtless; As a maid in hall of gentleness, And in all places son to Rhetoric, And in the field a Lion marmorike. Not long after the death of his wife Elisabeth, he was remarried unto Violenta the sister of john Galeas, Duke of Milan, with whom he was to receive a wondrous great Dowry; and in that regard he made a journey to Milan, attended with a chosen company of the English Nobility, where in most royal manner he espoused the said Lady. Of which his journey, and marriage, may it please you read these following measures. The king his son sir Leonell create Hard. ca 186.187. Duke of Clarence, and to Melayn him sent With chivalry of fame well ordinate, And squyers fresh, galant and sufficient With officers and yeomen as appent. This Duke royal of Clarence excellent, At Melayne wedded was then in royal wise With that lady fair and benevolent Full royally, as to such a Prince should suffice, And all the rule he had by council wise, Fro mount Goddard, unto the city of Florence And well beloved was for his sapience. In cities all he held well unitees, Great justes ay, and joyous tournements Of Lords and knights, Leonell in election to be king of Italy. he made great assemblies Through all the land, by his wise regiments. They purposed hole by their common assents To crown him king of all great Italy, Within half a year, for his good governaly. But Stow, Stow Annal. out of Paulus jovius, writes more fully of this marriage. In the month of April, saith he, Leonell Duke of Clarence, with a chosen company of the English Nobility went towards Milan, there to marry with Violentis the daughter of Galeasius the second of that name, Duke of Milan, at whose coming to Milan, such abundance of treasure was in most bounteous manner spent, in making most sumptuous feasts, setting forth stately sights, and honouring with rare gifts above two hundred Englishmen, which accompanied his son in law, as it seemed to surpass the greatness of most wealthy Princes; for in the banquet whereat Francis Petrarch was present, A most sumptuous feast. Costly gifts given. amongst the chiefest guests, there were above thirty courses of service at the table, and betwixt every course, as many presents of wondrous price intermixed, all which, john Galeasius, chief of the choice youth, bringing to the table, did offer to Leonell. There were in one only course seventy goodly horses, adorned with silk and silver furniture: and in the other silver vessels, Falcons, hounds, armour for horses, costly coats of mail, breast plates glistering of massy steel, helmets and corselets decked with costly crests, apparel distinct with costly jewels, soldiers girdles: and lastly, certain gems, by curious Art set in gold, and of purple, and cloth of gold for men's apparel in great abundance. Fragments of a feast sufficient to serve ten thousand men And such was the sumptuousness of that banquet, that the meats which were brought from the table, would sufficiently have served ten thousand men But not long after, Leonell living with his new wife, whilst after the manner of his own country, as forgetting or not regarding his change of air, he addicted himself overmuch to untimely banquet, spent and consumed with a lingering sickness, died, at Alba Pompeia, called also Languvill, in the Marquisat of Mont-ferrat in Piedmont, on the Vigil of Saint Luke the Evangelist, 1368. in the two and fortieth year of his father's reign. First he was buried, saith Camden in the Annals of Ireland, in the City of Papie, hard by Saint Augustine the Doctor: and afterward interred at Clare in the Covent Church of Austin Friars in England. He had issue only by his first wife one daughter, named Philip. Of which you may read before in the printed copy of the parchment Roll: and in the Chronicle of john Harding, as followeth. His wife was dead, Cap. 186. and at Clare was buried, And none heir he had, but his daughter fair, Philip that hight, as Chronicles specified, Whom queen Philip christened for his heir: th'archbishop of York for his compeire; Her godmother also of Warwyk the countess A Lady was of all great worthiness. And in another place. Cap. 187. Children had he noon, but Philip heir By Elizabeth his first wife, which the king Edward married to Edmond mortimer, th'earl of March, that was his ward full ying, Who gate on her Roger their dereling. Catal. of Honour. Philip, the only daughter of Leonel Plantagenet, Duke of Clarence, saith Milles (agreeing with the former, yet going a little further) was married unto Edmund Mortimer, Earl of March; upon whom the said Edmund begot Roger; and Roger, Anne: who being married unto Richard Earl of Cambridge, thereby transported the right of the kingdom unto the House of York. I find in my notes of Burials in Monasteries, that these persons following were also interred in this Priory Church. Richard, Earl of Clare, whom some will have to be Founder: Dame Alice Spencer: Sir john Beauchamp knight: john Newborne Esquire: who, amongst others, brought the body of the foresaid Leonell, Duke of Clarence, into England▪ john Wiborough: William Golderich▪ William Capell: and Eleanor his wife. The Lady Margaret Scroop, daughter of .... Westmoreland. john Kempe Esquire. Robert Butterwyke Esquire. jone Candishe, daughter of Clopton, Dame Eleanor Wynkepery. Stoke Clare. The foundation of Stoke College. Here at Stoke, adjoining to Clare, was a College founded by one of the Mortimers, Earl of March, valued in the king's books to be yearly worth three hundred twenty four pounds, four shillings, penny, half penny. Sir Edmund Mortimer Earl of March. In this College was entombed the body of Sir Edmund Mortimer the last Earl of March and Ulster of that house, Lord of Wigmore, Trim, Clare, and Conaught; the Grandchild of that Edmund Earl of March, who married the daughter and only heir of Leonell, Duke of Clarence, as it is in the Roll. Camd. in Radnorshire. This Edmund, saith Camden, in regard of his royal blood, and right to the Crown, stood greatly suspected to Henry the fourth, who had usurped the kingdom; and by him was first exposed unto dangers, in so much as he was taken (in a battle fought at Pelale in Wales) by Owen Glendowr a Rebel, and afterward whereas the Percies purposed to advance his right, he was conveyed into Ireland, kept almost twenty years' prisoner in the Castle of Trim, suffering all miseries incident to Princes of the blood while they lie open to every suspicion; and there through extreme grief ended his days, the nineteenth day of january, 1424. in the third year of the reign of Henry the sixth. Of the foresaid battle, his taking and miserable imprisonment, thus much out of Harding, as followeth. Sir Edmonde then Mortimer warred sore Hard. cap. 201. Upon Owen, and did him mickle tene, But at last, Owen lay him before, Where in battle they fought, as well was seen, Where Owen took him prisoner, as then full keen, With mickle folk on either side slain. And set Edmonde in prison and great pain. He wrote unto the king for great succour, For he had made with Owen his finance, To whom the king would grant then no favour Ne nought he would then make him chevisance For to comfort his foes disobeisance, Wherefore he lay in fetters and sore prison For none payment of his great ransom. Here also lay buried the bodies of Sir Thomas Grey knight, and his first wife. Luce the wife of Walter Clopton: Sir Thomas Clopton, and Ade his wife. Sudbury. Saint Gregory's. In this Church I saw a marble stone, Simon Archbishop of Canterbury. some four yards long, and two broad, sometimes inlaid all over with brass; under which, the Inhabitants say, that Simon Theobold, alias Sudbury, lieth interred; which may be true, for howsoever he hath his Tomb in the Cathedral Church at Canterbury, of which he was Archbishop (as I have written before) yet that may be, perhaps, only his Cenotaph or honorary funeral Monument. This Simon built, whilst he was Bishop of London, the Chapel or upper end of the Church, where this spacious Gravestone lies couched. As appears by this Inscription in the glass window. Orate pro Domino Simon Thepold, The foundation of All Souls Chapel. alias Sudbury, qui istam Capellam fundavit, Anno Domini M. cccclxv. in commemoracione omnium animarum dedicat, dat, consecrat. In the place where his Father's house stood, The foundation of Sudbury College. he founded a goodly College, which he furnished with secular Clarks, and other Ministers, which at the time of the suppression thereof, was valued at one hundred twenty two pounds eighteen shillings, lands by the year. Thus writes Godwin in the life of this Archbishop. And I find in the Catalogue of Religious Houses, collected by Speed, that this Simon, together with one john Chartsey, founded also the Priory of Augustine Friars in this Town; The foundation of the Friars. howsoever I have a Manuscript tells me, that one Baldwin de Shipling, or Simperling, and Chabill his wife, were the sole Founders who lie buried in the Chancel of the Priory Church. Besides in the said Church lie buried (as I have it in the notes of burials, from William le Neve, York Heraldy the bodies of Robert, the son of Sir William Simperling knight. Sir Robert Carbonell, and Sir john his son, Knights; Sir William Grey, Knight. Sir Peter Giffard, Knight, and julian his wife. Sir Thomas Giffard his son, Knight, Sir William Giffard, Knight. Sir William Cranuile, Knight. Sir Thomas, son of Sir William Cranuile, and Maude his wife. Sir Gilbert of Greymonde, and Gunnora his wife. Dame Agnes de Bello Campo. Dame Alice de Insula, wife of Sir Robert Fitzwater, Knight. Dame Katherine Hengrave. Sir john Culthorp, and Alice his wife. The heart of Sir Thomas Weyland. Sir john Giffard Knight. Robert Giffard, William Giffard. Sir john Goldingham Knight, and Dame Hillazia his wife. Thomas Giffard de Finchingfeld. john Liggon. Sir Thomas Lotun Knight. Sir William Tendering Knight, qui obijt 1375. and Margaret his wife, que obijt 1394. Dame jone Shelton. Dame jone Walgrave. john Cressenor. Maud Cressenor, Margaret Fuller, daughter of john Cressenor. john Walgrave. William Cressenor. Thomas Cressenor. Maud Haukedon, daughter of Sir Thomas Lacie Knight. William Walgrave. john Drury, son of William Drury. Robert Cressenor, and Christian his wife. Walter Cressenor. William Cressenor, qui obijt 1454. and Margaret his wife, que obijt 1461. William West. Emme West. Maud, wife of Robert de Bello Campo▪ Henry, father of Robert Saint Quintyn. Philip Saint Quintin. jone, daughter of ... Cressenor, wife of Richard Walgrave: Alexander and john Cressenor. Thomas West. This sacred structure was dedicated to the honour of our alone Saviour, and Saint Bartholomew; valued at 222 l. 18 s. 3 d. and surrendered the 9 of December, Anno Regni Regis Hen. octavi 36. The education of Archbishop Simon. But to return back again to the supposed Founder of this Monastery, Simon, Archbishop as aforesaid; who from his childhood was ever brought up at the School, and being yet very young, was sent by his father beyond the Seas to study the Canon Law, His preferments. and having proceeded Doctor of that faculty, became household Chaplain to Pope Innocent the sixth, and one of the judges or Auditors of his Rota. The said Pope by way of provision, thrust him into the Chancellorship of Salisbury, and then afterward, into the Bishopric of London. Ex Arch. Turris Lond. Thus Simon de Sudbury per Papam ad Episcopat. London vacant. per mortem Michaelis ultimi Episcopi provisus, etc. habet, etc. Teste R apud West. 15. Maij, 1 pars pat. Anno 36 Ed. 3. Memb. 9 having sat there Bishop about fifteen years, he was likewise by the Pope's provisorie▪ Bulls, translated to Canterbury: Two Synods were held in his time, at both which, he preached in Latin, in his own person, having laudably governed this See (as I have partly touched before) six years, His death. one month, and ten days; he was most unworthily slain, or rather wickedly murdered, by a company of villainous Rebels, whose death or martyrdom is comparatively set down, with that of Saint Thomas Becket, by john Gower in his book called Vox Clamantis, lib. 1. cap. 14. thus. Mss In bib. Cot. Quatuor in mortem spirarunt federa Thome, Symonis et centum mille dedere necem. De vita Thome Rex motus corde dolebat, Symonis extremum Rex dolet atque diem. Ira fuit Regis mors Thome, mors set ab omni Vulgari furia Symonis acta fuit. Disparilis causa manet et mors una duobus Immerito patitur iustus uterque tamen: Illeso collo gladijs perijt capud unum, Quod magis acceptum suscipit ara dei. Alterius capite sano fert vulnera collum, Cuius erat medio passio facta foro. Miles precipue reus est in sanguine Thome, Symonis inque necem rusticus arma dedit. Ecclesiam Christi Proceres qui non timuerunt, Martirij Thome causa fuere necis: justicie Regni servile genus que repugnans Symonis extremum causat in urbe diem. Corruit in gremio matris Thomas medioque Natorum turba Simon in ense cadi●▪ Thomam Rex potuit saluasse, sed illa potestas Symonis ad vitam regia posse caret. Vlta fuit Thome mors, et nunc ulcio mortis Symonis ante fores quotidiana gravat. Qui fuerat Crucifer, que patrum Primas in honore, Hic magis abiectus et cruciatus erat. Qui fuerat Doctor Legum sine lege peribat, Cesus et atteritur pastor ab ore gregis. O maledicta manus capud abscisum ferientis Culpa sit horribilis, pena perbennis erit. O qui tale Deo crimen prohibente patrasti Perfide qua pena que nece dignus eris O furor insane, gens rustica, plebs violenta Quam tua fraus sceleris est super omne scelus. And so he goes on, exclaiming against the savage barbarousness of the Rebels, and this their execrable horrid act. Sir Robert Hales, Sir Robert Hales. Lord Prior of Saint john's jerusalem, near Clerkenwell, and a great many of others, that day tasted of the same cup and the Archbishop had done. The chief leaders of this damned crew, were Wat Tyler of Maidstone in Kent, whom Wals. calls the Idol of Clowns; john Wraw, a Priest, jack Straw, john Littistar a Dier in Norwich, who took upon him at Norwalsham in Norfolk, the name of the King of the Commons, Robert Westborne, who did the like in Suffolk, etc. and these had a Chaplain as graceless as themselves, one john Ball, an excommunicated Priest, who with his wicked doctrine nourished in them their seditious furies. This rebellious insurrection is exactly, and to the life expressed, by my forenamed Author Io. Gower, in the foresaid book, the eleventh chapter, where in a vision he feigns to have seen and heard certain spirits of their Pseudo Prophet Ball (personating hereby these and all other Rebels) calling one upon another to rise up in commotion, as followeth. The ready proneness of the common people to rebellion. Watte vocat, cui Thome venit, neque Symme retardat, Betteque Gibbe simul Hykke venire iubent. Colle furit, quem Gibbe iwat nocumenta parantes, Cum quibus ad dampnum Wille coire vovet. The cruelty and pride of the base sort of people. Grig rapit, dum Dawe strepit, comes est quibus Hobbe Lorkin et in medio non minor esse putat. Hudde ferit quos Iudde terit, dum Tebbe iwatur jakke domos que viros vellit, & ense necat, Hogge suam pompam vibrat, dum se putat omni Maiorem Rege nobilitate fore. Balle Propheta docet quem spiritus ante malignus Edocuitque sua tunc fuit alta schola. Talia, que plures furias per nomina novi, Que fuerant alia pauca recordor ego. Sepius exclamant monstrorum vocibus altis Atque modis varijs dant variare tonos. The horrible strange tones and vociferations of Balls roaring boys, these Rebels. Quidam sternutant Asynorum more ferino; Mugitus quidam personuere boum. Quidam porcorum grunnitus horridiores Emittunt que, suo murmure terra tremit. Frendet Aper spumans magnos facit atque tumultus, Et queritat verres auget et ipse sonos. Latratus que ferus urbis compresserat auras Dum Canum discors vox suribunda volat. Vulpis egens ululat lupus et versutus in altum Conclamat, que suos convocat ipse pares. Nec minus in sonitu concussit garrulus Anser Aurc●, que subito fossa dolore pavent. Rombuant vaspe, sonus est horrendus eorum, Nullus et examen dinumerare potest. Conclamant pariter hir suti more leonis, Omne que fit peius quod fuit ante malum. Ecce rudis clangor, sonus altus, fedaque rixa, Vox ita terribilis non fuit ulla prius. Murmur saxa sonant, sonitumque reverberat aer, Responsumque soni vendicat Eccho sibi. Ind fragore gravis strepitus loca propria terret, Quo timet eventum quisquis adire malum. Terruerat magnas nimio pre turbine gentes Fear and distraction caused by commotion. Graculus a cuius nomine terra tremit. Rumour it, et proceres sermonibus occupat omnes Consilium sapiens nec sapientis erat. Casus inauditus stupefactas ponderat aures Et venit ad sensus dures ab aure pavor▪ Attemptant medicare sed immedicabile dampnum Absque manu medici cura que cessit ibi. But I have been too long detained by these Rebels, whose infernal attempts had condign punishment by so little of so much, which here is written, we may clearly behold the hideous face of Anarchy, or government without Prince or ruler, as also the distorted visage of Plebeian fury. All Saints in Sudbury or Allhallowes. Here ....... john Duke, Io Duke, and ●●ne his wife. john Waldegrave. and jone his wife .... 1503 .... Hic iacet johannes Waldergrave Ar. filius & heres Edwardi Waldegrave & Isabelle uxoris sue qui quidem Iohannes ob. 6. Octob... 1514. cuius anime. ... Orate pro animabus Georgij Waldegrave Ar. filij et heredis Willelmi Waldegrave militis, George Waldgrave and Anne his wife et Anne uxoris ipsius Georgij unius filiarum Roberti Drury militis, qui Georgius obiit 8. die julii anno 1528. Quorum animabus propitietur. .... Of your charity prey for the soul of Sir William Waldegrave, Sir Wil Waldgrave Knight, buried at Calais. Knight of Buers Saint Mary in Com. Suff. who died 12. December ... and left behind, one son and four daughters, on whose souls jesus have mercy. The said Sir William Waldegrave died at Callies in France, where his body is buried in Saint Mary's Church there. Here lie buried, (as I have it by relation) Sir Thomas Eden Knight, and Thomas Eden, Clerk of the star Chamber, both under one monument. I read, Stow Annal. Hollins. that Alexander Eden, Esquire, Sheriff of Kent, took jack Cade, Captain of the Rebels, in the 29. of Henry the sixth, prisoner, for which, and for other his good services against the said Rebels, he was made Custos or keeper of the Castle at Rochester. Of this surname is that learned Doctor of the Laws, Thomas Eden, Tho. Eden Doctor of the Laws. one of the masters of the Chancery, and master of Trinity Hall in Cambridge; of whose Family I shall have occasion to speak in another place. And so I will take my leave of this Town, with the words of Camden in this Country. Stour, the river, passeth on, and cometh to Sudbury (saith he) that is to say, the South Burgh, and runneth in manner round about it, which men suppose to have been in old time, the chief town of this Shire, and to have taken this name in regard of Norwich, that is, the Northern Town. Neither would it take it well at this day to be counted much inferior to the Towns adjoining: for, it is populous and wealthy, by reason of clothing there, and hath for the chief Magistrate, a Mayor, who every year is chosen out of seven Aldermen. Long Melford. Upon the outside of this Church, these words following are engraven. Pray for the souls of john Clopton, and Richard Boteler, of whose gooddies this Chapel was built. In the said Chapel, many of the ancient family of the Cloptons' lie entombed. Will. Clopton & Marg. his wife. Mar. and Tho. Clopton. Hic .... Dominus Willelmus Clopton .... qui obijt .... ant festum Sancti Thome 1416. & Margeria uxor Willelmi .... que obijt. .... 1424. Ora .... Marg .... & Thome fill .... eiusdem Willelmi et Marg. ... 1420. Francis Clopton. Franciscus Clopton ..... Aspice quid prodest presentis temporis ewm, Omne quod est, nihil, preter amare Deum. ..... Alicia Harleston, uxor johannis Haliston filia Will. Clopton: ... Of this worthy family I have spoken somewhat before, and shall have occasion to speak more hereafter. Sir Will. Cordal knight. Here lieth under a goodly Tomb the body of Sir William Cordall knight, Master of the Rolls; A good man, as Camden calls him, who built an Almshouse in this Town. You may know more of him by this his Epitaph. Hic Gulielmus habet requiem, Cordellus, avito Stemmate vir clarus, clarior ingenio. Hic studijs primos consumpsit fortiter annos, Mox & causarum strenuus actor erat. Tanta illi doctrina inerat, facundia, tanta, Vt Parlamenti publica lingua foret. Postea factus Eques Reginae arcana Mariae Consilia, & patriae grande subibat opus. Factus est & custos Rotulorum; urgente senecta In Christo moriens, cepit ad astra viam. Pauperibus largus, victum, vestemque ministrans Insuper Hospitij condidit ille domum. Butley. The foundation of the Priory at Butley. Here sometime stood a Priory of black Canons Augustine's, founded by Ralph de Glanvile, dedicated to the blessed Virgin Mary. Valued in the King's books at three hundred eighteen pounds seventeen shillings two pence half penny farthing, and surrendered the first of March, in the nine and twentieth year of the reign of king Henry the eight. Mic. de la Pole E. of Suffolk. In this Priory Church was interred the body of Michael de la Pole, the third of that name, Lord Wingfield, and Earl of Suffolk. Who was slain at the battle of Agincourt, with Edward Plantagenet, Duke of York. On our side, was the duke of York there slain, th'earl also of Suffolk worshipfully. This battle was strucken on the 25. day of October, Ann. 1415. Hadley. Gurmond king of Denmark. Here in this Church, as the Inhabitants say, Gurmond, or Gurthrun, a Danish King lieth interred: and this their assertion is confirmed by the most of our ancient Historians; yet the Tomb which they show for his funeral Monument bears not that face of Antiquity, as to be of seven hundred years and more continuance; if any Monument remain here to his memory, in my understanding, it is one of these in the North or South wall. This Pagan king of Denmark, after he had for many years infested and harried this kingdom, and driven Alfred our king to strange extremities; was in the end overcome by Alfred in battle: presently upon which he was washed in the laver of Baptism; Gurmound christened. (which was one of the conditions of peace at his overthrow) Alfred received him for his godson by the name of Athelstane, and gave him in free gift this country of East Angels; and in the same fountain of Grace (saith Simon of Durham) thirty of the chief Danish Nobility were initiated, upon whom the true Christian King bestowed many rich gifts. Of all which my old rhyming Chronicler. Gutron the king of Denmark that was tho, Hard ca 109. In Westsex warred full sore and brent the land, With which the king so married was with woe, He wist not well whether to ride or stoned, But to Ethelingay anon he took on hand To ride, where then he his him in a place, For dread of Danes, such was his hap and grace. Where then his Lords and knights in good array, Came to him then with host and great power, Where than the king upon Gutron that day, In battle strong with courage fresh and clear Fought sore, and took Gutron prisonere, And two dukes with him in compaye Vnchrysten were, they all of panymrye. And had the field with all the victory And of Danes many thousand slew. He baptized than as made is memory This king Gutron, that after was full true And named was Athylstan all anew To whom the king gave than all Estenglond As Edmond had to hold of him that land. And all his dukes were also there baptized And christian men became for goddies love The year of christ viii C. then compeysed Sevente and viii as Flores doth approve. This Battle, and the baptising of Gutron and his Lords, I have also out of an ancient nameless Manuscript in my own custody, thus delivered. Than Gunter that father was of Haveloke King of Denmark, was than of mykle might Arevyd so than in Ingylond with his floke Of Danes fell, cruyll, mighty and wight With whom the king full strongly than did fight And hem venquyste with sore fight and battle; And ovar hand had so thrughe his governayll. The which Gunter, and wherein of his Lords through grace took than baptyme at their desire. Hadley the King's ●ear. S●ow. Camd. After he had governed these counties of Suffolk and Norfolk (keeping his residence here in this Town) the space of twelve years complete, he died and was buried in the king's town, called Headlega (so Hadley is called in the Saxons language) in Suffolk among the East English, in the year 889. Ipswich in times past Gipswich. Had Ipswich (the only eye of this Shire) been as fortunate in her surname, as she is blessed with commerce and buildings, she might well have borne the title of a City; neither ranked in the lowest row: whose trade, circuit, and seat, doth equal most places of the land besides. It is adorned with twelve or fourteen Churches; in all which, I find not any funeral Monument of Antiquity, save one which came to light not long since upon the removal of a Pew in Saint Laurence Church (and so like wise in other Churches many Monuments are buried) under which the Founder of the said Church was interred, as appears by this Epitaph engraven upon the Stone. Io. Bottold. Subiacet hic lapide john Bottold vir probus ipse Istius Ecclesie primus Inceptor fuit iste. Cuius anime Domine misereris tu bone Criste. Obijt M. ccccxxxi. litera dominicalis G. Since than that so few funeral Monuments are remaining at this day in the Parish Churches of this Corporation, I will take a view of the sites of the Religious Houses in and about this Town now overturned. Of which, and such persons as I find to have been therein inhumed, as followeth. The Priory of Saint Trinity. This Priory was founded by Norman, the son of Enott, and john de Oxenford, Bishop of Norwich, tempore Hen. 2. replenished with black Canons Augustine's: and valued to be yearly worth fourscore and eight pounds six shillings nine pence. Burials. Herein lay buried Norman the Founder, and Langeline his wife, and Dame joan Filian. The Friars Preachers. This Monastery was founded by Henry de Manesby, Henry Redred, and Henry de Londham, The foundation of the Fri●●● Preachers. Burials. saith the Catalogue of Religious Houses, to whose honour consecrated I do not learn: neither do I know any thing of the value or surrender. Bodies which I find to have been herein buried, were Dame Maud Boerell: Edmond Saxham Esquire: john Fostolph, and Agnes his wife, Gilbert Rouldge, jone Charles. Edmond Charleton Esquire. The white Friars Carmelites. This Religious Edifice was founded by Sir Thomas de Londham, The foundation of the Friars Carmelites. saith one, howsoever I find in the Catalogue of Religious Foundations aforesaid in Speed, that the Lord Bardesley, Sir Geffrey Hadley, and Sir Robert Norton knights, were the Founders about the year 1279. Herein (for of the dedication, Burials. value, or surrender, I find nothing) were buried, Sir Thomas, and Sir Thomas de Londham knights, john Londham Esquire, Margaret Colevile, Gilbert Denham Esquire, and Margaret his wife, daughter of Edward Hastings. And in a Manuscript penned by john Bale, I find these Carmelites following to have been here sometimes inhumed. johannes Haul ob. 1433. Maij 15. Richardus Hadley, ob. 1461. Aprilis primo. johannes Wylbe, ob. 1335. 2. Decemb. johannes Barmyngham vir doctissimus. Oxonia diu studuit & Parisijs intex Sorbonicos; he was a man very learned; he studied a long time in Oxford, and at Paris amongst the Sorbons'. He writ diverse books mentioned by Pitseus; and died a wondrous old man (being as then Prior of this Fraternity) the two and twentieth day of january, Anno reparationis humana 1448. johannes Balsham Episcopus Archiliens. hic sepultus ob. 1530. The Grey Friars. Founded by the Lord Tiptoth. Foundation of the Grey Friars. Burials. In which lay buried (for I find no further of it then the Foundation) Sir Robert Tiptoth knight, and Dame una his wife. The heart of Sir Robert V●ere the elder: Margaret Countess of Oxenford, wife of Sir Robert Veer the younger, Earl of Oxenford▪ Dame Elisabeth, wife of Sir Thomas Vfford, daughter of the Earl of Warwick. Sir Robert Tiptoth the younger. Margaret wife of Sir john Tiptoth. Robert Tiptoth Esquire. Elisabeth Vfford. Elisabeth Lady Spenser, wedded to Sir Phellip Spenser, daughter of Robert Tiptoth. Phellip, George, Elisabeth children of Sir Phellip Spenser. jone daughter of Sir Hugh Spenser. Sir Robert Warhesham, and Dame jone his wife. john son of William Claydon. Sir Thomas Hardell knight. Dame Elisabeth wife of Sir Walter Clopton of Hadley: Sir William Laynham. Sir Hugh Peach, and Sir Hugh Peach, Sir john Loveloch knights. Item the Heart of Dame Petronill Vfford. Dame Beatrix Botiler. Dame Aueline Quatefeld. Dame Margery, Aunt of Sir Robert Vfford. Dame Alice widow of Sir john Holbrok. The Black Friars. Of this House I only find that one john Hares gave ground to build it larger. These personages following I find to have been registered in the Martirologe of this house. Persons Registered. The Lord Roger Bigot, Earl Martial. Sir john Sutton Knight. Lady Margaret Plays. Sir Richard Plays. Sir Robert Vfford Earl of Suffolk. Wolsey College. Cardinal Wolsey borne in this town, whose vast mind always reached at things, began here to build a most magnificent and sumptuous College, in the place where sometime stood a small monastery of black Canons, founded by Thomas de Lacie, and Alice his wife, and dedicated to the honour of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. Woodbridge. john Albred, and Agnes his wife. Hic iacet johannes Albred quondam Twelewever istius ville .... ob. primo die Maij. ... 1400. et Agnes uxor cius..: This Twelewever, with Agnes his wife, were at the charges (people of all degrees being as then forward to beautify the house of God) to cut, gilled, and paint, a Rood Loft or a partition betwixt the body of the Church and the Choir: whereupon the pictures of the Cross, and Crucifix, the Virgin Mary, of Angels, Archangels, Saints, and Martyrs, are figured to the life: which how glorious it was when it was all standing, may be discerned by that which remaineth. This their work of piety was depensild upon the fabric; of which so much as is left: Orate ..... johannis Albrede et Agnetis ......... soluerunt pro pictura totius huius operis superne.: ... videlicet crucis crucifixi, Marie, Archangelorum et totius candelab .. The names of some of the Saints portrayed upon the work, and yet remaining, are these, S. Paul, S. Edward, S. Kenelm, S. Oswald, S. Cuthbert, S. Blaze, S. Quintin. S. Leodegare, S. Barnaby, S. Iherome. Io Kempe and his three wives Orate ... johannis Kempe, qui obijt 3 julij 1459. et pro animabus Margarete ac johanne & Margarete uxorum. ... Pray for ... of Robert Partridge, Butcher ... who died on Midsummer day, Rob. Partridge and his wives. M. cccccxxxiii. Mariory and Alis his wyffs ... Mariory the vi. of Henry the viii. Alis. ... on their souls, their children souls, and all christian souls, almighty jesus have mercy. The Foundation of the Priory of S. Mary of Woodbridge. Here in this Town was sometime a monastery consecrated to the honour of the blessed Virgin Mary, founded by Sir Hugh Rous, Knight; valued at fifty pounds, three shillings, five pence half penny per annum. The bodies buried in this Priory Church, were these which follow: Ex Regist. Prior de Woodbridge. Sir Hugh Rous, or Rufus, the Founder, and Dame Alice his wife. Sir William Rous, and Dame Isabella his wife. Sir Arnold Rous, and Dame Elisabeth his wife. Sir Giles Rous. Sir Arnold Rous, and Dame Isabella his wife, Sir Richard Brews, and Dame Alice his wife. Sir john Brews, and Dame Eve his wife. Sir john Brews, and Dame Agnes his wife. Sir Richard Brews Lord of Stradbroke. Sir Giles Brews. Sir Robert Brews, and Dame Ela his wife. Sir Thomas Brews, and Dame jone and Elizabeth his wives. Sir Nicholas Weyland, and Dame Beatrix his wife. Sir Thomas Weyland. Sir Robert Weyland. Sir Herbert Weyland. William Brews Esquire. William Melton Richard Feningle. Muriell Gouncill. Sevall Woodbridge. Edmond Woodbridge. Sir john Shandlow, and Dame Elizabeth his wife. The names of certain persons registered in this Monastery in a Table, for whose souls the Prior and Covent were bound to pray and say Mass. Sir Hugh Rous, or Red, the Founder, and six other Knights of the same surname. Sir Richard Brews, knight, Lord of Stradburgh, or Stradbrooke, Patron of the Church, with seven other Knights of the same surname, and their wives. Sir Robert de Vfford, and Dame Cecily his wife. Robert de Vfford Earl of Suffolk, and Dame Margaret his wife. This Robert, Sir Robert Vfford, Earl of Suffolk. who was also Knight of the Garter, Lord of Eay and Framlingham. He and William Montague, Earl of Salisbury, were Generals of King Edward the thirds Army in Flanders, when he went to make his claim to the Crown of France. He served under the black Prince, at the battle of Poictow, Milles. where john the French king was taken prisoner. He died in the fortieth and third year of the reign of King Edward the third, on the sunday after All Saints. Sir William Vfford, Sir William Vfford, Earl of Suffolk. second Earl of Suffolk of that surname, and Isabella his wife. This Earl built the Church at Parham in this County: he died suddenly in the Parliament house at Westminster, speaking for the Commons, the 15. day of February, 1382. and in the fifth year of the reign of Richard the second. Dame Maud Henand, Countess of .... Sir William de Londham knight. Robert Rendlesham, Austin Philip. jone saint Philbert, daughter of the Earl of Suffolk. Isabella de Braham, and Edward the son of sir Thomas of Braderton. Vfford. This is the most neatly polished little Church (that I have looked into) within this Diocese. The roof whereof, and other parts of the Choir, being curiously engraven with sundry kinds of works and pictures, all burnished and gilt with gold. The Organ case, whereupon these words, Soli Deo Honour & Gloria, are carved, and gilded over; is garnished and adorned in most costly manner. The Font, and the Cover of the same, is without compare, being of a great height, cut and gloriously depicted with many Imageries' consonant to the representation of the holy Sacrament of Baptism, as also with the Arms of the ufford, Earls of Suffolk, whose principal habitation was in this Town. It is said by the Inhabitants, the foresaid Earls of Suffolk, lie here interred, but I find no show of it in the Church; as also the bowels of Ralph de Vfford, Ralph de Vfford Lord chief ●ustice o● Ireland. Lord chief justice of Ireland: of whom the Annals of Ireland speak thus as followeth. Upon the 13. day of july, 1343, the Lord Ralph Vfford, with his wife, the Countess of Ulster, came Lord chief justice of Ireland: upon whose entering, the fair weather changed suddenly into a distemperature of the air, 〈◊〉. Annal Hi●era. and from that time there ensued great store of rain, with much abundance of tempestuous storms, until his dying day. None of this Predecessors in the times past was, (with grief be it spoken) comparable unto him. A wicked chief justice. For, this justicer bearing the Office of justiceship, became an oppressor of the people of Ireland, a robber of the goods both of the Clergy and laity, of rich and poor alike: a defrauder of many under the colour of doing good: not observing the rights of the Church, nor keeping the law of the Kingdom: offering wrongs to the natural inhabitants: ministering justice to few or none, and altogether distrusting (some few only excepted) the inborn dwellers in the land. These things did he still, and attempted the like, misled by the counsel and persuasion of his wife. Thus he continued his rigorous government for the space almost of three years: and upon Palm sunday, 1346. which fell out to be the ninth day of April, went the way of all flesh. For whose departure, his own dependants, together with his wife, sorrowed not a little: for whose death also the loyal subjects of Ireland rejoice no less: the Clergy and people both of the Land, joy upon the death of the justice. for joy of his departure out of this life, with merry hearts do leap, and celebrate a solemn feast at Easter. At whose death, the floods ceased, and the distemperature of the air had an end, and in one word, the common sort truly and heartily praise the only son of God. Well, when this justice, (now dead) was once fast folded within a sheet and Coffin of lead, the foresaid Countess (with his treasure not worthy to be bestowed among such holy relics) in horrible grief of heart, conveied him over into England, there to be interred. Orate pro ... Roberti Lamb, & Alicie Lamb ...... Rob. Lamb and Alice his wife. ..... Lamb ...... ... Lamb. These Lambs have been special benefactors to this Church, being sometimes men of fair possessions in this parish, as I was told; their names with the pictures of Lambs are depensild in many places of the woodworke and feeling of the Church. Simon Brooke and his wives. Hic iacent Simon Brooke et Emota, Margareta et Alicia uxores eius, qui quidem Symon obijt 12. octob. 1488. An ancient Family these Brooks, were in this parish, now extinct, as I have it by relation. Christopher Willoughby and his wife. Orate pro bono statu Christopheri Willoughby Armigeri & Margery uxoris eius: this is in a glass window of the Church. Campsey or Camesey. The Nunnery of Campsey. This was a Nunnery not far from Vfford, founded by one Theobald, and consecrated to the honour of the Virgin Mary, which was valued at the suppression, to be yearly worth in Lands, one hundred eighty and two pounds, nine shillings five pence. These Nuns were of the order of S. Clare, and called Minoresses. Maud, The foundation of a chantry in the Priory Church at Campsey. who was first married to William Lord Burgh, Earl of Ulster, and after, to Ralph de Vfford, chief justice of Ireland, repenting herself (belike) of her own and her last husband's delinquences committed in Ireland, of which I have spoken before, obtained licence of King Edward the third, by the procuration of her brother Henry, Earl of Lancaster, to found a chantry in this monastery, of five Chaplains, secular Priests, to pray and sing Mass for the souls of the said William de Burgh, and Ralph de Vfford, whose body was here interred: such is the Charter of the Foundation. Edwardus, King Edward's Charter. In Arch. Turris to Lond. etc. Sciatis quod 16 die Octobris Anno regni nostri 21. ad requisitionem dilecti consanguinei et fidelis nostri Hen. Com. lancaster, nec non Matildis comitisse Vltonie consanguinee sororis eiusdem comitis, etc. dederimus et consesserimus prefate comitisse, quod ipsa quondam cantariam quinque capellanorum, quorum unum custodem eiusdem cantarie duxerit nominand. in capella virginis gloriose, infra Ecclesiam Monasterij sive prioratus monialium de campese divina celebrar. ad laudem Dei, Ralph de Vfford here buried in our Lady's Chapel. & dicte virgins matris eius: pro salute que Willelmi de Burgh▪ quondam comitis Vltonie primi, ac Radulphi de Vfford secundi et virorum suorum. Cuius quidem Radulphi corpus in eadem capella quiescit humatum, etc. Test. meipso apud West. etc. Letheringham. In the parish Church, and in the Church of the little Priory adjoining, are diverse Tombs and gravestones to the memory of that noble and ancient Family of the Wingfields', all of which are foully defaced. This Priory was founded by sir john Boynet, The Priory of Letheringham of the dedication order or time, I am altogether ignorant, it was valued at twenty six pounds, eighteen shillings, five pence, of yearly comings in. The Wingfelds' here buried, were these. Sir Robert Wingfeld, Lord of Letheringham. Sir Robert Wingfeld and Elizabeth Gousall his wife, Sir john Wingfeld, and Elisabeth his wife. Sir Thomas Wingfeld. Sir Robert Wingfeld, and Elisabeth Russell his wife, obijt Robertus, 1409. Thomas Wingfeld and Margaret his wife: Richard Wingfeld, Anne, and Mary. Inscriptions upon the monuments of the Wingfelds', partly remaining, are these which follow. Hic iacet tumulatus Dominus Willelmus Wingfeld, Sir Will. Wingfield Knight. Miles Dominus istius ville & patronus istius Ecclesie qui ob. primo die julij 1398. Cuius anime propitietur Deus, Amen. Hic iacet Willelmus Wingfeld, Will. Wingfield. Armig. et Katherine uxor eius .... Dominus et patronus Quorum. ... Hic iacet Dominus Robertus Wingfeld, Sir Rob. Wingfield Knight. miles et Elisabetha uxor eius, qui quidem Robertus obijt 3. die Maij 1409. Quorum animabus .... Amen. Wi●●field knight. Hic iacet Dominus ...... Wingfild miles quondam Dominus de Letheringham. Here is also an ancient fair Tomb very foully defaced, whereupon this fragment of an Inscription following is only remaining. ..... Elizabethe Arundel Ducisse Norfol. & johannis Paulet militis, qui quidem Iohannes obijt x Maij M. cccclxxxi ...... ac Domina Elizabetha Wingfeld uxor predicti Iohannis filia ..... Sir Antony Wingfield knight of the Ga●●or. Sir Antony Wingfield of Letheringham Knight, son and heir of Sir john, lived in the reigns of King Henry the eight, and Edward the sixth, in the 31. of Hen. the 8. he was Captain of the Guard. He was Controller of Edward the sixth his House, and of the privy Council to King Henry the eight, and Edward the sixth: and Knight of the Garter. He died ..... he married Elisabeth, daughter and coheir of Sir George Veer Knight, and of Margaret his wife, the daughter of Sir William Stafford. He was Vice-chamberlaine to King Henry the eight: and, together with the Earls of Arundel and Essex, and others, appointed to be aiding and assisting with his advice and counsel, the Executours of the said King's last Will and Testament: A copy whereof I have in my custody. By which his will he gives to the said Sir Antony two hundred pounds. In the Priory Church here at Letheringham, diverse of the ancient family of the Nantons lie buried. Naunton. Of whom out of their pedigree, I have these notes following. Master William Smart affirmeth that he hath seen ●n ancient Evidence, dated before the Conquest of England, wherein the Nantons are named, who saith they were written by the name of Nawnton. Roger Awston reporteth that Nawnton came in with the Conqueror, and that he hath seen Records of the same, who for service done had then given him in marriage a great inheritrix. It is reported that Nawntons lands were at that time 700. marks, per annum. These Nauntons' are Patrons of the Church of Alderton in this County, as appears by this Epitaph there. Here lieth Henry Naunton Esquire, late Patron of this Church, and Tristram Naunton, H●n. Naunton, Tristram, Elisabeth. both sons of William Naunton Esquire, and of Elisabeth his wife; and Elisabeth wife to the said Henry, daughter of Euerard Asheby Esquire, and Elisabeth daughter to the said Henry Naunton, and Elisabeth Asheby. This is likewise in the Prioty Church here at Letheringham. Patruus ignotus, Genetrix vix nota, sororque, Occumbunt sequeris tu mihi sancte Pater. Chara Domus terras fugitis neque sic me fugitis Vos sequar in caelos ..... Patri, Patruo, Matri, Sororulae charissimis Posui, flevique Robertus Naunton. 1600. Sir Rob Naunton Master of the Court of Wards. Now Sir Robert Naunton knight, one of his Majesty's most Honourable privy Council, and master of the Court of Wards and Liveries. Of which Office, will it please read thus much out of the Interpreter, as followeth. Master of the Court of Wards and Liveries, D. cowel. lit. M. saith he, is the chief and principal Officer of the Court of Wards and Liveries, named and assigned by the King, to whose custody the Seal of Court is committed. He at the entering upon his Office, taketh an Oath before the Lord Chancellor of England, well and truly to serve the king in his Office, to minister equal justice to rich and to poor, to the best of his cunning, wit, and power, diligently to procure all things which may honestly and justly be to the king's advantage and profit, and to the augmentation of the right and prerogative of the Crown, truly to use the Kings Seal appointed to his office, to endeavour to the uttermost of his power, to see the King justly answered of all such profits, rents, revenues and issues, as shall yearly rise, grow, or be due to the King in his office, from time to time, to deliver with speed such as have to do before him, not to take or receive of any person any gift or reward in any case or matter depending before him, or wherein the King shall be party, whereby any prejudice, loss, hindrance, or disherison, shall be or grow to the King. Ann. 33. Hen. 8. cap. 33. Buers. Hic iacet Andreas de Buers, Sir Andrew Buers knight, and Robert his son. & Robertus de Buers filius eiusdem Andree militis, qui Andreas obijt 12. die Aprilis, Anno Dom. 1360. et dictus Robertus obijt 7. die mens. Octob. Ann. Dom. 1361. quorum animabus. Hic iacet Richardus Waldegrave miles qui obijt 2. die Maij, Sir Rich. Waldgrave knight, and joan his Lady. Anno Dom. 1400. & joanna uxor eius que obijt 10. junij, 1406. Quorum animabus propitietur Deus. Amen. Qui pro aliis oras, pro se laborat. Hic iacet Richardus Waldegrave miles qui obijt 2. Maij An. Dom. 1434. Sir Rich. Waldgrave knight, and joan his wife. & johanna uxor eius filia Thome de * Mountche●sie. Sir Tho. Waldgrave knight, and Eliz. his wife. Montecamisij militis, que obijt in festo Sancti Dionisijs, Anno Dom. 1450. Quorum animabus. Amen. Hic iacet Thomas Waldergrave miles, & Elisabetha uxor eius prima filia & una beredum johannis Fraye militis nuper capitalis Baronis Scaccarij qui quidem Thomas obijt 28. die...: 1500. Of your cherite prey for the souls of Edward Waldergrave, Ed. Waldgrave and Mabell his wife. and Mabell his wyff, daughter and heir of john Cheney of Pynehoo in Devonshyre, and one of the heirs of john Hill of Spaxton in the County of Somerset. The which Edward deceased the year of our Lord God, 1506. and the said Mabell. ..... on whose souls jesus have mercy. Amen. Orate pro animabus Willelmi Waldegrave militis, Sir Will. Waldegrave knight, and Margery his wife. & Margery consortis sue, qui quidem Willelmus obijt ...: This Church of Buers is very neatly kept▪ Out of the pedigree of the Waldegraves', this story following was collected by john Raven, Richmond Herald. On a time a Gentleman of Northampton being at the sign of the Grown in Sudbury, The Antiquity of the Waldg●aues. and having conference with master Edward Waldgrave of Bilston, in Com. Suss. Esquire, did make unto him a very credible report of one Waldegrave in Northamptonshire, affirming that he heard it reported of old time, that these Waldgraves were of a very ancient antiquity before William the conquerors reign, and that his name should be john: who having one only daughter, and meeting with one Waldgrave which came out of Germany, and was employed in the Conqueror's services, the said German Waldgrave related with Waldgrave of Northamptonshire, concerning the marriage of his said daughter; & told him that if he would give his consent that he might have his daughter in marriage, that then he would procure him a pardon from the Conqueror, for the quiet enjoying of his lands and livings. By which means he obtained the Conquerors grant, with his own hand and Seal, for confirmation of all his lands unto him and his posterity. The which Pardon and grant remaineth to be seen at this day, 1612. in the French tongue, and is in the possession of the Lords of that Manor. john Raven Richmond Herald. Thebarton. Sir Will. jermey 〈◊〉, and 〈◊〉 his wife. Hic iacet Willelmus jermey miles, unus justiciar. Domini Regis de Banco suo, et Elisabeth uxor eius, qui quidem Willelmus obijt twenty-three die Decembris, Anno Domini M. cccclxxxiij. Quorum animabus propitietur Deus. Amen. Wingfield. Wingfield College. Here sometimes stood a College or chantry, by whom founded I have not yet found out. But the de la Poles, Earls of Suffolk, were the Patrons of it. Valued it was at the dissolution to amount to fifty pounds three shillings five pence half penny, of yearly revenues. Surrendered 36 H. 8. Will. de la Pole 〈◊〉 of Suf●olke. In this College was buried the body of William de la Pole, Lord Wingfield, Earl, marquis, and Duke of Suffolk, as also Earl of Penbroke. After all these honours given him, he was banished England for five years, for being too familiar with Queen Margaret, privy and consenting to the yielding and loss of Anjou and maine (as also to appease the murmuring of the people for the murdering of the Duke of Gloucester) and as he was ●aking of ship to pass for France, he was surprised and taken on the sea, by a ship of war, called the Nicholas, belonging to the Duke of Exeter, than Constable of the Tower of London, and there presently beheaded, and his body cast into the sea, which was after found, and taken up again at Dover, brought to this College, and here honourably interred, saith Hall, as also the Catalogue of Honour by Brooke. This happened in the year 1450. 〈◊〉 de la P●le 〈◊〉 of Suf●●lke. john de la Pole son and heir of William aforesaid, after the death of his Father Duke of Suffolk, was likewise buried here at Wingfield. Of which he was Lord and owner. He died in the year 1491. In the Parish Church are these Inscriptions or Epitaphs. Rich. dela Pole. Hic iacet Richardus de la Pole filius Domini Michaelis de la Pole, nuper Comitus Suff. qui obijt 18. die Decembris, Ann. Dom. 1403. Cuius anime propritietur Deus. Hic iacet Magister johannes de la Pole, silius Domini Michaelis de la Pole, john de la Pole. quondam Comitis Suffolcie Baccalaureus utriusque iuris, Canonicus in Ecclesia Cathedrali Ebor. ac in Ecclesia Collegiata de Beverley, qui ob. 4. die mens. Februarij, Anno Dom. 1415. Hen. 54. These two were the son of Michael de la Pole, the first Earl of Suffolk of that surname. Hic iacet Dominus Wingfild, Wingfield of Letheringham Camd. in Sus● de Letheringham ....... Cuius anime. This town of Wingfield hath given name to a family in this tract, that is spread into a number of branches, and is besides for knighthood and ancient gentility renowned: and thereof it was the principal seat. Donnington. Hic iacet tumulatus Dominus Willelmus Wingfeld miles Dominus istius ville, Sir Will. Wingfield knight. ac patronus istius Ecclesie qui obijt 1 junij, Ann. Dom. 1398. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Hic iacet Willelmus Wingfeld Armiger & Katherine uxor eius, Will. Wingfield and Katherine his wife. Dominus et Patronus istius ville. Quorum animabus, obijt ille ...... Hic iacet Dominus Robertus Wingfeeld miles et Elisabetha uxor eius, Sir Rob. Wingfield and Elis. his wife. qui quidem Robertus obijt tertio die Maij 1409. Quorum animabus propitietur Altissimus. Waldingfield magna. ...... john Appulton of Waldingfeeld magna ..... Io. Appulton. ob. anno 14. of Hen. 4. 1416. Three Apples, Gules, leaves and stalks vert. Orate pro animabus johannis Appulton et Margarete unxoris eius, joh. Appulton and Margaret his wife. quidem Iohannes obijt 9 die Aprilis, Anno Domini 1481. et predicta Margareta obijt 4. die julij Anno Dom. 1468. quorum ..... Orate pro anima Thome Appulton de Waldingfeeld magna qui Thomas ab hoc luce migravit, Tho. Appulton. 4. die Octob. ann. Dom. 1507. Orate pro anima Margery Appulton, Margery Appulton. que obijt 4. die Novemb▪ anno Dom. 1504 Cuius anime propitietur altissimus. Amen. Orate pro animabus Roberti Appulton generosi, Rob. Appulton and Mary his wife. et Marie uxoris eius, qui quidem Robertus obiit 27. Augusti 1526. Quorum ..... Amen. Barton magna. Hic iacet corpus Alicie Harpley quondam uxoris Ricardi Harpley ...... Alice Harpley. que quidem Alicia .... Hic .... Cotton ..... Cotton. Of these Cottons I have read as followeth. In the pedigree of Edmund Cotton Esquire now living, 1631. The ancient seat of the Cottons in Cambridgeshire is, Lanwade Hall: many descents were higher, and before the father, to the elder, Sir john Cotton knight, who died near the beginning of Queen Elisabeth. This Sir john (being the elder) had three brothers, whereof Edmund Cotton was the third from Sir john aforesaid, and sisters they had, etc. This elder Sir john Cotton had one son called by his father's name, sir john Cotton Knight, who dying in the time of King james, left to inherit his estate, one only Son (begotten of his wife Anne, eldest daughter of sir Richard Hoghton, of Hoghton Tower in the county of Lancaster, Knight and Baronet) now in being: whose name is likewise john. Edmund Cotton, the third brother aforesaid, married Ela Coniers, the daughter and heir of john Coaniers, the only son of Robert Coniers Knight, of near alliance to the Lord Coniers of Hornby Castle in Richmondshire, who lived in the several reigns of Ed. 2. and Ed. 3. A sister of the forenamed Robert Coniers, Knight, was married in that time to Sir Richard Harpley knight, & now lieth interred in the Chancel of Barton magna, under a monument, inscribed as before: Hic iacet corpus Alicie, etc. Edmund Cotton, aforesaid, by Ela his wife, had diverse children; George was his eldest son, and Audery, a daughter of his, vailed herself a Nun. George had issue, many children, and Edmund was his eldest son and heir. Edmund Cotton in like manner, had issue, diverse sons and daughters, and his eldest son and heir is Edmund Cotton, now in being. The ancient seat left unto him, amongst other lands, was called by the name of Coniers, alias Necton Hall in Bramble Barton, alias Barton magna iuxta Bury S. edmond's. Debenham. Here lieth john Farmingham, who died .... 1424. and Margaret his wife. Robert Cheake, and Rose his wife. George Nevil, and ... his wife. john Nevil. john Cheake, who died, 1490. Babewell. The foundation of Babewell Priory. Here sometimes stood a Monastery of Grey Friars, first founded by master Adam de Lincoln, who gave the Foundership to the honour of Clare. Here lay buried, Sir Walter Trumpinton, and Dame Anne his wife. Nicholas Drury, and jane his wife, which died the seventh of MArch, in the seventh year of King Richard the second. Margaret Peyton. Blithborrow. anna, King of the East Angles, and Ferminus his son. This little Town is memorable, for that Anna, King of the East Angles, together with his eldest son and heir apparent Ferminus, were here buried, both slain in a bloody fierce battle, by Penda the Mercian King, a Pagan: of which my old Manuscript. Penda anon his host with him he led; And on Anna came fyrst with mykle pride King of Este england, Egfrid, King of 〈◊〉. whose doubter Egfryde wed And slew him. Anna was a man of great virtue, Lib. 〈◊〉 Hist. 3. cap. 18. and the father of a blessed issue, saith Bede, which were many, and those of great holiness and sanctity of life. First, Ferminus, slain in the same battle with his father, as I have said before; here buried, but afterwards removed to S. Edmundsbury. His other son was Erkenwald, Anna his issue. Abbot of Chertseie, and Bishop of London, of whom before. His daughters were these. Etheldred, Etheldred, Abbess of ●●ly. the eldest, was first married unto a Noble man, whom Bede nameth Tombert Governor of the Fenny Countries of Norfolk, Huntingdon, Lincoln, and Cambridge shires. And after his death, remaining a virgin, she was married to Egfrid, King of Northumberland, with whom likewise she lived in perfect virginity, the space of twelve years, notwithstanding his entreaty and allurements to the contrary. From whom lastly she was released, and had licence to depart his Court, unto the Abbey of Coldingham, where first she was vailed a Nun under Abbess Ebba, and thence departing, she lived at Ely, and became herself Abbess thereof; wherein lastly she died, and was interred; remembered unto posterities by the name of S. Audrie, of whom, more hereafter. His second daughter was Sexburgh, S●●burgh Abbess ●f ●ly. who married Ercombert, King of Kent, unto whom she bore two sons, and two daughters; after whose death, she took the habit of a Nun, and succeeded her Sister Etheldrid, Abbess of Ely, Whitgith a Mench●on. wherein she died, and was interred. And their youngest sister Withgith, was likewise a Menchion with them in the same monastery, and all of them canonised for Saints. Ethilburghe, Ethilburge Abbess of Be●king. Bed●. his third daughter, was made Abbess of Berking in Essex, built by her brother Bishop Erkinwald, wherein she lived, and lastly died, as I have said before. A natural daughter likewise he had, whose name was Edelburgh, Edelburge, Abbess 〈◊〉 B●igges in France. Bede. that with Sedrido, the daughter of his wife, were both of them professed Nuns, and succeeded each other Abbesses in the Monastery of S. Brigges in France. Such a reputed holiness was it held in those days, not only to be separated from the accompanying with men, Speed cap. 11. but also to abandon the country of their nativity, and as strangers in foreign lands, to spend the continuance of their lives. Orate pro anima Willelmi Colet qu●ndam Mercatoris de Blyburgh sive istius ville qui obijt 16 die januar. An. Domini 1503. Will. C●lle●. Cuius anima per gratiam Dei requiescat in pace. Amen. Orate pro anima Iohanne Baret nuper uxoris Iohannis Baret qui obijt xiiii. die januarij anno M.d.xx ... joan Baret. Orate pro anima johanne Ranyngham quondam uxoris johannis Ranyngham, jone Ranyngham. qui obijt quarto die mensis Maii, anno M.D ..... cuius anime propitietur Deus. Orate pro anima johannis Ranyngham alias Loman qui obiit xi. die mensis Decembris anno Domini M. cccc lxxxxiiii. Io. Ranyngham Orate pro animabus Simonis Toding et Iohanne uxoris eius qui quidem Iohannes obiit xx. die Decemb. anno Domini M. cccc.lxxxxii. Quorum .... Sim. Toding, and jone his wife. Roger Boreham and Ka● his wife In gratia et miserecordia Dei hic iacet Rogerus Boreham qui obiit xxvii. die Novembris anno Domini M. cccc.xlii. et Katherine uxor eius que ... Quorum animabus propitietur Deus. Amen. The foundation of the Priory of black Canon●. This Town was beautified by King Henry the first, with a college of black Canons, who granted the same as a cell to the Canons of Saint Osiths in Essex: Her revenues were augmented by Richard Beauveys Bishop of London, who is reckoned as a cofounder with the said King: the value of it was 48 pounds, 8 shillings, 9 pence. Mettingham. 〈…〉 Me●●ingham College Sir john, surnamed the Norwich, Lord of this place, built here a four square Castle, and a College or chantry within it, which he dedicated to the honour of God, and the blessed Virgin Mary, which was valued at the suppression to be yearly worth in lands, two hundred, two pounds, seven shillings five pence half penny, which was surrendered the 8 of April, 33 Hen. the eight. Brusyerd. Bursyerd or Brusyerd a Nunnery. A Monastery of Nuns, dedicated to the blessed Virgin, by whom ●ounded, or in whose time, I have not learned: valued it was at 56 pound two shillings and a penny, per annum, and surrendered the 17. of February, in the thirtieth year of King Henry the eight. Wangford. 〈◊〉 foundation of Wangford P●●o●y. Here sometimes stood a Priory or a Cell of black Monks Cluniakes, dedicated to the honour of the Virgin Mary, founded by one Ansered of France, valued at the suppression, to be worth thirty pounds, nine shillings, five pence by year, and surrendered the sixteenth of February, 32 Hen. 8. Bungey. The foundation of the Nunnery of Bunge●. Here was a Nunnery founded by Roger Glanuil and Gundreda his wife, or as others say, by the Ancestors of Thomas de Brotherton Earl of Norfolk: valued at the downfall of religious houses, at sixty two pounds, two shillings, and a penny, and of it I know no further. Sotterley. Towards the uppermost end of the Chancel of this Church, lieth a large Gravestone, with two full proportioned pictures in brass, and this Inscription at the feet of them. The Playsere ●nd Anne his wi●e. Orate pro animabus Thome Playsers Armigeri, nuper huius Ecclesie Patroni, et Anne uxoris eius et sororis et heredis Rogeri Henays' nuper de Tadington Armigeri, qui quidem Thomas obijt xxi. die mensis Septembris, anno M. cccc.lxxix. et predicta Anna obijt x. die mensis Octobris ex tunc prox. sequent. Quorum animabus propitietur Deus, Amen. In the same Chancel is a Tomb of free stone, covered with a fair marble, with this following Inscription in brass about it. Here lieth buried, the body of William playferes Esquire, Will. Play●ers▪ son and heir to Thomas and Anne his wife, who married jane, daughter of sir of Knots Hall, Knight; by whom he had issue, diverse children, and died the xi. day of November, anno M.D.xii. Adjoining to this, is another Tomb, with the Effigies of a man cut in brass, and this Inscription at his feet. Here under lieth buried, the body of Christopher playferes Esquire, Christopher playferes. true Patron of this Church, son and heir to William and jane his wife, who had two wives: videlicet, Dorothy, one of the daughters and heirs of William Aselak, of Carrow in the County of Norfolk Esquire, by whom he had issue, Thomas; and by Anne, daughter to William Read of Becles' Esquire; he had issue, seven sons and four daughters, and he died in the year of our Lord God, M.D.xlvii, Here likewise lie buried, the bodies of Thomas playferes Esquire, Tho. and Will. playferes. and of William playferes Esquire, Patrons of this Church; but they died but of late years. Thomas died the 19 of September, 1572. and William, the first day of june, 1584. Orate pro anima Roberti Bumpsted generosi, qui obijt xv. die mensis Aprilis, anno Domini, M. cccc.lxxxii. Eay, or Eye. Where was a Monastery of black Monks, The foundation of the Monastery of Eye. consecrated to Saint Peter, and founded by Robert Malet, a Norman Baron, Lord of the Island of Eye, so called, because it is watered on every side with brooks, where are to be seen, Camd. in Suf●. the rubbish, ruins, and decayed walls of an old Castle that belonged to the said Robert Malet: whose donations which were many and great, were confirmed by King Stephen's Charter; of which thus much as followeth out of Selden in his History of Tithes, cap. 11. which he had from the original. Quoniam, King Stephen's Charter of confirmation. divina miserecordia providente, cognonimus esse dispositum, et longè lateque predicante Ecclesia, sonat omnium auribus diwlgatum; Quod Eleemosynarum largitione possunt absolui vincula peccatorum, et adquiri celestium premia gaudiorum. Ego ✚ Stephanus Dei gratia Anglorum Rex, partem habere volens cum illis qui felici commercio celestia pro terrenis commutant, Dei amore compunctus, et pro salute anime me ✚ et patris mei, matrisque me, et omnium parentum meorum ✚ et antecessorum meorum Regum ✚ Willielmi scilicet Regis Aui mei. ✚ et Willielmi Regis Auunculi mei ✚ et Henrici Regis Auunculi mei ✚ et Roberti Malet, et concilio Baronum meorum. Concedo Deo, et Ecclesie Sancti Petri de Eia, et Monachis ibidem in Dei seruitio congregatis, ut habeant omnes res suas quetas et liberas ah omni exactione, et teneant eas in terris, in Decimis, in Ecclesiis, in omnibus possessionibus, sicut unquam melius, & honorabilius tenuerunt tempore Roberti Malet, et tempore meo antequam Rex essem cum Soca et Soca, et Tol et Tiem et Infanganathief. ● precipio etiam ut teneant de quocunque tenehant (et non mittantur in placitum) sicut tenebant die quam Henricus Rex fuit viws et mortuus et die qua ad Regni coronam perveni, etc. Dat. Anno ab Incarnatione Domini, M.C.xxxvii. apud Eia secundo Anno Regni mei, in tempore Ebrardi Episcopi Norwicensis, et Gausleni Prioris Eye. 〈…〉 of his ●●●te●. Quicunque aliquid de his que in hac carta continentur, auferre aut minuere, aut disturbare scienter voluerit autoritate Domini Omnipotentis patris, et Filii et Spiritus Sancti, et Sanctorum Apostolorum, et omnium Sanctorum sit excomunicatus, Anathematizatus, et a consortio Domini, et liminibus Sancte Ecclesie sequestratus donec resipiscat, et Regie potestati xxx libras auri persoluat. Fiat. Fiat. Fiat. Amen. Amen. Amen. This Foundation in Lands, Tithes, and Churches, was rated to be yearly worth one hundred fourscore and four pounds nine shillings seven pence half penny, qua. Ockley or Okeley. At the East end of the Chancel lieth a Gravestone, with this Inscription. Will. Cornwalleis. Orate pro animabus Willelmi Cornwalleis, et Elisabethe uxoris sue, qui quidem Willelmus obiit anno Domini M.d.xx Quorum animabus propitietur Deus. Amen. Rob. Bucton. Hic iacet Robertus Bucton Armiger Dominus & Patronus istius ville qui obiit xvii die mensis Decembris, anno Domini M. ccccviii. cuius anime propitietur Deus. In the heart of the Chancel lieth a Tombstone with this Inscription. Sir john Dennys Priest. Orate pro anima Domini johannis Dennis, quondam Rectoris istius Ecclesie, qui obiit ultimo die julii, anno Domini, M.d.xxix Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Brome. In the Chancel of this Church is erected a marble Tomb some four foot high, upon which lie the figures of Sir john Cornwalleis knight, in Armour, with a white staff in his hand, Sir john Cornwalleis knight, and Mary his wife. and a greyhound at his feet, and Mary his wife, with a Hound at her feet. Which Tomb bears this Inscription. johannes Cornwalleis miles Willelmi Cornwalleis Armigeri filius, in Domo Principis Edowardi Oeconomus, et uxor eiusdem Maria Edwardi Sulliard de Essex Filia. Qui quidem johannes twenty-three Aprilis, Anno Dom. M.D.xliiii. obiit Astrugie in Comitatu Buckingham, cum ibidem Princeps Edwardus versaretur. Sir Tho. Cornwalleis knight, and Anne his wife. On the North side of the Isle near unto the former monument standeth a marble Tomb, upon which lie the portraitures of Sir Thomas Cornwalleis knight, in Armour, and Anne his wife ..... Of these two, and of the family of Cornwalleis, thus Camden writes, Camd. in Su●●. concurring with the words in these Inscriptions. At Brome, saith he, dwelled a long time the Family of Cornwalleis, of knight's degree: of whom Sir john Cornwalleis was Steward of Edward the sixth his household, while he was Prince: and his son Sir Thomas, for his wisdom and faithfulness became one of the privy Council to Queen Mary, and Controllour of her royal House. Here also in the said Isle is a Monument, Hen. Cornwalleis whereupon is the Effigies of Henry Cornwalleis Esquire, in Armour kneeling thus under written. Hac conditione intravi ut exirem. Cui nasci contigit mori restat. In the said Chancel lieth a Tombstone with this Inscription. Orate pro anima Edwardi Cornwalleis Armigeri, qui obijt iiii die Septembris, anno Domini, M.D.x. cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. Under this is the form of an heart joining to it, streaming forth these sentences. Within the circumference of the Heart this word Credidi. From the Heart, these lines. Redemptor meus vivit. In novissimo die super terram stabit. In carne mea videbo Deum Saluatorem. Helmingham. In the Chancel floor upon a Tombstone this Inscription in French. William joce & Katerine sa femme gysont icy Will. joice and Katherine his wife. Dieu de lor alms eyt mercy: amen. There are diverse other Tombestones in this Chancel floor without either Inscriptions or Arms, which have been on them all, but are taken out. Hintlesham. In the middle of the Chancel a fair blue marble stone, thereon in brass the proportion of a man in complete Armour, under his head a Helm, thereon on a wreath his Crest. And on his left hand the portrait of a woman in brass, a little hound lying at her feet: under both these this Inscription. Hic iacent venerabilis vir johannes Tymperley, Io. Timperley & Marg. his wife. Armiger heres & Dominus de Hyntylsham, & Margareta uxor eius. Qui quidem Iohannes obijt ... die mensis: Anno Domini M. cccc. Quorum animabus propitietur altissimus. On another marble stone, a man in complete Armour in brass, sans Helm, with this Inscription. Of your cherite prey for the soul of William Temperley, Will. Timperley. which died the x. day of March in the year of our Lord God M.D.xxvii. on whose soul and all crystyn jesus have mercy. Amen. On a Tomb of Alabaster on the South side of the Chancel wall, these Inscriptions. Tho. Timperley and Etheldred his wife. Hic iacent Thomas Tymperley Armiger qui obijt xiiii die jan. M.D. et Etheldreda uxor eius, prima filia Nicholai Hare .... et Katherine uxor cius. Hic iacent Nicholaus Timperley Armiger qui obiit .... et Anna uxor eius filia et heres Gulielmi Markham Armigeri .... Flixton. Or Felixton (so named of Felix, the first Bishop of these parts, like as many other places in this Shire) had in times past a Monastery of Nuns, of whose Foundation I have read in a nameless Manuscript, as followeth. The foundation of Flixton Nunnery. Margery de Creke daughter to Galfride Hanes, the widow of Bartholomew Creke, gave her whole Manor of Flixton, with all the appurtenances, which came to her by Inheritance, to have a Religious house of Nuns erected, which should profess the Rule of Saint Austin. Simon de Wanton at that time Bishop of Norwich, Sir William Blunde, Robert de Valines, William de Medef●nd, being witnesses of her donation and gift: which was in the reign of King Henry the third; for I find that in his time these witnesses did flourish. It was valued at the general overthrow of such houses, at twenty three pounds four shillings, penny, half penny qua. Walton or Waletune. The Priory of Walton. A Priory dedicated to Saint Felix the Bishop before remembered; wherein were placed black Monks Benedictines. And this is all I find of this Foundation, save that the Bigots or Bigods Earls of Norfolk, were great benefactors to this religious building; if not the sole Founders of the same. As will appear by this piece of a Record following. E● Arch. Turris Lon●. Cart. antiq. li●. R R. — Rogerus Bigod comes Norfolcie pro salute anime me, etc. dedi et concessi Ecclesie Sancti Felicis de Waletune et Monachis ibidem Deo servientibus omnes donationes sicut antecessores mei, etc. sans date. Edwardstow. The Monastery of Edwardstow. A Monastery was here founded by Peter de la Roche, or Petrus de Rupibus, that rich Bishop of Winchester, in the reign of King john. Heringfleet. The foundation of Heringfleete Abbey. Here sometimes was a Religious Monastery of Canons Regular, dedicated to the honour of Saint Olave, founded by Roger the son of Osbert. Valued at forty nine pounds eleven shillings, seven pence. Brisete. Here was Priory of black Canons consecrated to Saint Leonard. Leyston, or Laiston. The Priory of Leyston, The foundation of the Priory at Leiston. saith my Manuscript, replenished with black Monks Premonstratenses was first founded by Ranulph de Glanvill, about the year 1183. renewed and new builded by Sir Robert de Vfford, Earl of Suffolk, Anno 1363. it was dedicated to the mother of jesus, that blessed Virgin Mary. And upon the destruction of all such Edifices, valued far under rate to have annual comings in, one hundred eighty one pound, seventeen shillings, penny, half penny. Hicham. Hoc tegitur saxo johannes Spring, Io. Spring. qui quidem Iohannes obijt duodecimo die mens. Augusti, Anno a Christo nato, M.D.xlvii. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. Laneham. Here lieth buried the body of Thomas Spring of Laneham, Tho. Spring the rich Clothier. surnamed the Rich Clothier, who died .... in the year of our Lord God M.D.x. His Monument is in the carved Chapel of Wainscot, in the North side of the Chancel which he built himself; as also he built the great Chapel on the South side of the Chancel. Here lieth buried another Thomas Spring of Laneham, Tho. Spring Clothier. Clothier, who built the Vestry of the said Church. He died the seventh day of September, M. cccclxxxvi. the first of Henry the seventh. Orate pro anima jacobi Spring, james Spring. qui obiit iii die Augusti, M. cccclxxxiiii. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. Cnobersburg or Burgh Castell. Which as Camden saith out of venerable Bede, was a most pleasant Castle, by reason of the woods and sea together, wherein a Monastery was built by Furseus a holy Scot; Sigebert king of the East-Angles a Monk. His death. by whose persuasions Sigebert king of the East Angles became a Monk, and resigned up his kingdom: who afterwards being drawn against his will out of this Monastery, to encourage his people in battle against the Mercians, together with his company, lost his life. In that place now there are only ruinous walls, in form as it were four square, built of flint stone and British brick. But the story of the Foundation of this Abbey will best appear in the life of Furseus, written by Bede, and followed by Capgrave. Bede lib 3. cap. 19 Capgrave lit. F. folio 153 as followeth. In the time that Sigebert yet governed the East parts of England, a holy man, The f●unda●●●on of the Monastery of 〈◊〉. called Furseus, came thither out of Ireland, a man notable both for his sayings and doings, of great virtue, and much desiring to wander and travel in God's quarrel, wheresoever occasion served. Coming therefore to the east coasts of England, he was reverently received of the said King, where pursuing his godly desire of Preaching the word of God, he both converted many Infidels, and confirmed the faithful in the faith and love of Christ, by his painful Preaching, and virtuous examples. Where falling into sicknesses, he had from God a vision by the ministry of Angels, wherein he was warned to go forward cheerfully in his painful Preaching of the Gospel, and to persevere in his accustomed watching and praying, because his end and death was certain, though the hour thereof was most uncertain, according to the saying of our Lord. Watch therefore, ye know not the day nor the hour. With this vision being much confirmed and encouraged, he hastened with all speed to build up the Monastery in the place king Sigebert had given unto him, and to instruct it with regular discipline. This Monastery was pleasantly situated for the Woods and Sea adjoining, being erected in the village of Gnobersburg, and enriched afterwards by Anna, King of that province, and many other Noble men, with sundry fair houses, and other ornaments. This Monastery was founded about the year of our Lord, 636. and demolished long before the violent deluge of such buildings, which happened in the reign of King Henry the eight. Gorlston. Gorl●●oe Fri●●● Here I saw, saith Camden, the tower steeple of a small suppressed Friary, which standeth the Sailors in good steed for a mark: of which Friary I never marked further. Lestoffe. Tho Scroop●, a Bishop in Ireland. Here lieth buried the body of Thomas Scroop, otherwise surnamed Bradley, of the town wherein he was borne, descended of the noble family of the Scroope's, Qui claritatem generis literis et virtutibus plurimum illustrabat: who very much adorned the honour of his birth, by his learning and virtues. He was first a Monk ordinis Sancti Benedicti, of the order of Saint Benet: after that, ad maiorem aspirans perfectionem, aspiring to a greater perfection of life, he took upon him the profession and rule of a Dominican, and after that, he submitted himself to the discipline of the Carmelites, (of whose Institution he writ a learned Treatise) and preached the Gospel in hair and sackcloth round about the Country. Then he withdrew himself again to his house of Carmelites in Norwich, and there remained twenty years, leading the life of an Anchorite, but yet after that time, he came abroad, and was advanced by the Pope to a Bishopric in Ireland, called Dromorensis Episcopatus, the said Pope (which was Eugenius the fourth) sent him in embassage to the I'll of Rhodes (of which he writ a book) from whence being returned, he left Ireland and his Bishopric, came into the East countries, wherein he went up and down barefooted, teaching in towns abroad, the ten commandments, and preaching the glad tidings of the Gospel. Quicquid autem vel ex suis reditibus percepit, vel alias a ditioribus lucrari poterat, id totum aut pauperibus distribuit aut in alios pios usus erogavit: whatsoever he took, either of his own yearly profits, or what he could procure from the richer sort of people; he distributed it all to the poor, or employed it to pious uses. At the length, Anno aetatis suae plus minus centesimo in Leistoft Suffolciencis comitatus oppido vivendi finem fecit, in the year of his age, one hundred or thereabouts: he died in this town of Lestoffe, the fifteenth day of january, in the year of our Lord, 1491. the seventh of Henry the seventh. Here he was buried, cum Epitaphio Elegiaco, with an elegiacal or sorrowful Epitaph, engraven upon his monument: two of the last verses of which, are these two verses following. Venit ad occasum morbo confectus amoro; Spiritus alta petit, pondere corpus humum. If you would know more of this learned Irish Bishop, read Bale and Pitseus in his life. Somerley. The habitation in ancient times of Fitzosbert, from whom it is come lineally to the worshipful ancient Family of the jernegans, Knights of high esteem in these parts, saith Camden in this tract. Upon an ancient Knight (saith the same Author in his Remains) Sir jernegan, buried cross legged at Somerley in Suffolk, some hundred years since is written. jesus Christ, both God and man, Save thy servant jernegan. Sir jernegon or jerningham. This Knight, as I gather by computation of years, was Sir Richard jerningham or jernegan, who for his stayed wisdom, was chosen to be one of the privy Chamber to King Henry the eight, upon this occasion following. Certain Gentlemen of the privy Chamber, Stow Annal. An. reg. Hen. 8.10. which through the King's lenity, in bearing with their lewdness, forgetting themselves, and their duty towards his grace, in being too familiar with him, not having due respect to his estate and degree, were removed, by order taken from the Council, unto whom the King had given authority to use their discretions in that behalf, and then were four sad and ancient Knights put into the King's privy Chamber, Ric. Wingfield. Ric. jerningham Ric. Weston. Will. Kingston, Knights. whose names were Sir Richard Wingfield, Sir Richard jerningham, Sir Richard Weston, and Sir William Kingston. Or it may be, Sir Robert jerningham, knighted by the Duke of Suffolk, Charles Brandon, at the battle, and yielding up of Mont de dier, a town in France. But which of the Family soever he was, the name hath been of exemplary note before the Conquest; if you will believe thus much as followeth, taken out of the Pedigree of the jerninghams', by a judicious gentleman. Anno M.xxx Canute, King of Denmark, and of England after his return from Rome, brought diverse Captains and Soldiers from Denmark, whereof the greatest part were christened here in England, jerningham. and began to settle themselves here, of whom, jernegan, or jernengham, and jennihingho, now jenning's, jenning's. were of the most esteem with Canute, who gave unto the said jerningham, certain royalties, and at a Parliament held at Oxford, the said King Canute did give unto the said jerningham, certain Manors in Norfolk, and to jenning's, certain Manors lying upon the seaside near Horwich in Suffolk, in regard of their former services done to his Father Swenus King of Denmark. Snape. The foundation of Snape P●●●ry. A Priory of black Monks, and a Cell to Colchester, founded in the year, 1099. the twelfth of William Rufus, by William Martill, and Albreda his wife, and Geffrey Martill their son and heir, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and valued in the King's books to be yearly worth, ninety nine pounds, one shilling, eleven pence half penny. Hoxon. The 〈◊〉 of H●●on. In times past called Hegilsdon, and much ennobled by reason of the martyrdom in this place of Edmund, King of the East Angles, enshrined sometimes in the Abbey of Bury, as I have spoken before, honoured by his name, to whose holiness, a Monastery was erected in this place. Wykes. This was a Monastery of Nuns, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, founded by King Henry the third, The foundation of Wykes Monastery. or at least wise by him confirmed, as it is in the Records in the Tower: valued at fourscore and twelve pounds, twelve shillings, three pence half penny of yearly comings in. Neyland. The manufacture of Clothing in this County, hath been much greater, and those of that trade far richer, I persuade myself, heretofore then in these times, or else, the heirs and executors of the deceased, were more careful that the Testators dead corpse should be interred in more decent manner, than they are now a days; otherwise I should not find so many marbles richly inlaid with brass, to the memory of Clothiers in foregoing ages, and not one in these latter seasons. All the monuments in this Church which bear any face of comeliness or antiquity, are erected to the memory of Clothiers, and such as belong to the mystery. Hic iacet johannes Ewel, john Ewell and Agnes his wife. quondam Fuller istius ville et Agnes uxor eius qui quidem Iohannes obijt vi. Octobris anno Dom. M. cccc.xxxvi. litera Dominicalis G. Orate .... Georgij Hamund Textoris de Barby qui obiit, George Hamund anno Domini M.D.xxx. I beseech you as to say oon Pater Noster and an Aue, Lady Thomasin Hamund. for the soul of Dame Thomasin Hamund: .... worker .... M.D.xlviii. One Abel a Cloth worker, built the Porche of this Church, which is a very fair one, Abel. in the wall whereof he hath a funeral monument, and to signify his name, as also to make up his cote Armour, is the letter A. and the picture of a Bell cast upon the Monument. Stoke iuxta Neyland. This Church is highly honoured by the Sepulture of diverse of the illustrious Family of the Howards. PASSIO: ΞΡΙ: CONFORTA: NOS. JESV: MISERERE: NOBIS: In the East Window of the South part in the Church are these portraitures of Sir john Howard Knight, and Dame Alice his wife, daughter and heir of Sir William tendering Knight, with the subscription following. Sir john Howard and Lady Alice his wife. Orate pro animabus Domini johannis Howard, & Dominae Aliciae uxo ris eius. Upon a fair marble, though much defaced, in the Quire. Orate pro animabus johannis Howard militis, qui obijt. ... 1400. et Alicie uxoris eius, que obijt in festo Sancte Luce Euangeliste, 1426. Upon the Pavement before the high Altar lieth an ancient Gravestone, having thereon the figure of a Knight in complete Armour, resting his Head upon his Gauntlet, with this circumscription. Sir Will. tendering knight, and Katherine his wife. Hic iacent Tumulati, Dominus Willelmus tendering, miles, & Katherine Clapton uxor eiusdem: obierunt anno Domini 1408. joan Redmeld. ..... Domina johanna Redmeld quondam sponsa Willelmi Redmeld militis, ac filia recolende memorie Domine Margarete Howard Ducisse Norfolcie hic superius tumulate obijt.▪ .... xx Febr. M.D. Near unto the same, upon the pavement, is also another Monument with the circumscription, as here under appeareth, the Brasses of the Figures, and some of the Arms thereof, are most impiously stolen away, and so is the Brass of the Inscriptions, Arms, and Images of three other fair stones lying there near. Orate pro animabus johannis Howard Militis: qui obiit Ann. 14. et Allicie uxoris eius: que obiit in festo Sancti Luce Evangeliste: Ann. 1426. quorum animabus proprietur Deus. HONI: SOIT: QVI: MAL: Y: PENSE: Under this Stone is buried the body of the right honourable woman and Lady, sometime wife unto the right high and mighty Prince Lord john Howard Duke of Norfolk, and mother unto the right noble and puissant Prince, Lord Thomas Howard, Duke also of Norfolk. Which Lady departed this present life, Ann. Dom. 1452. In the South part of the said Church between the high Altar and the Quire is a monument (with this similitude and subscription, aforementioned) of the right honourable Lady Katherine, daughter of William Lord Molins, the first wife of john Howard Duke of Norfolk, who was the son of Sir Robert Howard, and of Margaret his wife, daughter and coheir of Tho. Mowbray, Duke of Norfolk, son of john Lord Mowbray, and Elisabeth his wife, daughter and heir of john Lord Segraue, and Margaret, Duchess of Norfolk, the daughter and heir of Tho. of Brotherton, the fifth son of King Edward the first, the which he had by Margaret his second wife, the daughter of the French King Phelip the Third. Tendringhall Chapel, in the Parish of Stoke iuxta Neyland. In the East window of the private Chapel of tendering Hall in the said Parish of Stoke iuxta Neyland, is the effigies above showed, which is supposed (by reason of the quarterings in his Coat of Arms) to be made for john Lord Howard (after created Duke of Norfolk) In which (and in the foresaid Monument) is to be observed that according to the ancient rule, the Coat Armour of the Blood-royal is placed in the first quarter before the Paternal Coat. Katherine de Tendering. Lady Windsor. Hic .... Katerina de Tendering quondam uxor Thome Clopton que obijt die Veneris ante festum Pentecostes. M. ccccii. ... Lady Windsor .... daughter of Sir William Walgrave. At the upper end in the North side of this Church, next to the Chancel, john de Peyton, john Peyton. the son of Reginald, lieth interred under a marble stone. About the verge whereof these few French words following are only remaining. .... jena de Peytona .... Mercy ... lame Crist .... Sir Io. Peyton Knight. Under another marble stone adjoining, his son Sir john Peyton knight, lieth inhumed with this French Inscription. Vous qe par ici passet, Pur l'ame Sire jehan de Peytona priet. Le cours de oi ici gist; L'ame receive Ihu christ. Amen. Camd. in Cambridgeshire. These Peytons had their mansion at Peyton Hall in Boxford not far hence. Of which and of them Camden. Wicken came to the family of the Peytons, saith he, by a daughter and coheir of the Gernons about Edward the thirds time, as afterward Isleham descended to them by a coheir of Bernard in Henry the sixth his time: which knightly family of Peytons' flowered out of the same male-stocke, whence the ufford Earls of Suffolk descended, as appeareth by their coat-armour, albeit they assumed the surname of Peyton, according to the use of that age, from their Manor of Peyton Hall in Boxford in the County of Suffolk. Dodnash. The foundation of the Monastery of Dodnath. A Monastery dedicated to the honour of our alone Saviour Christ, and the blessed Virgin his mother; founded by some of the Ancestors of the Earls or Dukes of Norfolk. Valued at forty two pounds eighteen shillings eight pence half penny. Sibbeton, or Sibton. 〈◊〉 foundation of Sibton. ●●●ey. William Cheney, or William de Casineto, who held the Barony of Horsford in the County of Norfolk, erected an Abbey here at Sibton, which he dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and therein placed black Monks Cistertians; which was valued at the suppression to be yearly worth two hundred fifty pounds, fifteen shillings, seven pence, half penny. Redlingfield. The Foundation of the Priory of Relingfield. In this Parish was a religious House of black Nuns, dedicated likewise to the Virgin Mary, and founded by one Manasses de Gyves. Valued at fourscore and one pound two shillings, five pence half penny. Rendlesham. Howsoever there be no Inscriptions here upon any of the Gravestones in the Church, Rendlesham a Town of great note in former times. yet questionless in former times it hath been beautified with the Funeral Monuments of many worthy Personages. For, here Redwald king of the East Angles kept usually his Court, who was the first of all his Nation that was baptised, and received Christianity: but afterwards seduced by his wife, Beda li. 2. ca 25. he had in the self same Church, as saith Bede, one Altar for christ's Religion, Camd. in Suff and another for sacrifices unto Devils. In this place also Swidelm a king of these East-Angles was likewise afterwards baptised by Cedda Bishop of London. Redwald having reigned king of the East-Angles one and thirty years, Speed ca 19 Redwald, Swid●lm, kings of the East Angles. and Monarch of the Englishmen eight years, died in the year of our salvation six hundred twenty three. And (by supposition) he as also Swid●lme lie buried at this place. Ratisford. An Hospital dedicated to Saint john, Ratisford Hospital. valued at thirty three pounds ten shillings. Of which I have read no further. Rombuth, or Rombrughe. A Priory of black Monks dedicated to Saint Michael. Rombrughe. Saint Genovefa Fernham. This village is in this regard memorable, Camd. in 〈◊〉 john Textor. for that Richard Lucy Lord chief justice of England, and Protector of the kingdom in the absence of king Henry the second, took prisoner here in a pight field, Robert surnamed Blanchmame, Earl of Leicester, together with his Amazonian proud Countess, Burials at Fernham. Petronel, or Pernell; and withal put to the sword above ten thousand Flemings, which the said Robert had levied and sent forth to the depopulation of his country: all, or the most, of which number, were buried in and about this the foresaid village of Fernham, in the year of our redemption, 1173. in the twentieth of Henry the second. Of the valorous atcheevements and pious actions of this worthy Knight, and religious Votary, I have related somewhat before within the Diocese of Rochester, where I write of the dissolved monastery of Lesnes, an Abbey of his Foundation, where in the place where the Church thereof sometime stood (which had lain a long time buried in her own ruins, and grown over with Oak, Elm, and Ashe-trees) certain workmen appointed, by the owner of the manor, Sir john Epsley knight, to dig amongst the rubbish of the decayed Fabric for stones, happened upon a goodly Funeral monument, Sir Rich. Lucy found buried in the Abbey of Lesnes. Ann. 1030. the full proportion of a man, in his coat armour cut all in freestone; his sword hanging at his side by a broad belt, upon which the Flower de luce was engraven in many places (being as I take it the Rebus or name-devise of the Lucy's) this his representation or picture lay upon a flat marble stone; that stone upon a trough or coffin of white smooth hewn Ashele● stone, in that coffin, and in a sheet of lead, ● both being made fit for the dimension of a dead body;) the remains of an ●●h●e dry carcase, lay enwrapped, whole and undisjointed, and upon the head, some hair, or a simile quiddam of hair appeared: they found likewise other statues of men, in like manner proportioned, as also of a woman in her attire and abiliments, with many gravestones and bones of the deceased; to see all which, great confluence of people resorted, amongst which number, I was not the hindmost. Certain Church collections within this County, taken by William Harvey Clarencieux, King of Arms, now in the hands of William le Neve, York Herald. George Mannoke, diseased the xxii. day of August, Anno Domini M. ccccc xli. 〈◊〉 Gregory's Church in soulbury. In Allhalowes at Sudbury. john Walgrave, Esquire, son and heir of Edward Walgrave, which diseased the vi. of Octobre, an. M. ccccc.xliii. Robart Crane of Stonam parua, and Lady Anne his wyefe, daughter of Sir Andro Egard, knight, de Buckingham ad castrum, which deceased xxiii. of Octob. an. Dom. M. In the Cherche of Chylton. Georg Crane, son and heir of Robart Crane, Esquyer, and Lady Anne his mother, deceased, M. cccc.lxxxxi. Sir Raffe Butle, Lord of Sudley, and Alyce his wyef, daughter of Daynecourte, in a glass wyndoo there found. Andro Bures, and Robert his son, knight, were buried, Andro the xii. of Apryl, an. M.ccclx. and Robard died the seven. of October. an. M.ccc.lxi. Also there lieth buried in the North I'll of the same Cherch, Robart de Bures, cross leged. In the Church of Acton. Alyce de Bryan, daughter and heir of Robart de Bures, knight, and wyef to Sir Edmond Bryan, the younger knight. In the Cherc● of Ikelingham William Gedding died the iiii. of November, an. Dom. M. cccc.lvij. In S. mary's Cherche at Bery. Sir Robart Drewry deceased, an. Dom. M.D. xx. as appeareth upon his tomb there. Sir William Drewry deceased, xxvii. of july, an. Dom. M.D. xxv. as aforesaid appeareth. Thomas Lewcas was servant and Secretory, and one of the Counsel to jesper, Duke of Bedford, and Earl of Penbroke, as appeareth in a window in the North side of the same Cherche, dated in the year of our Lord, M.D.xxviii. in which Wyndoo, In the Cherch of Saxam parua he and his wyef kneeleth in their cote Armour. In the said Cherch, in the North side, lieth buried, Margery, daughter and heir of Robart Gedding, with this scripture foloinge: Orate pro animabus Margerie nuper uxoris Iesper filii et heredis Thome Lewcas Armigeri, filie et heredis Gilberti Peche militis. johannes Aspall Armiger, qui obiit xxi. die Sept. M.D. xv. Henry Torner esquire, and Margaret his wyef, and jone Torner, wife to the said Henry, In the Cherch of Haverell. and john Torner, son to the said Henry, lieth buried in the choir, in anno Dom. M. cccc.lxiiij. In a wyndoo in the foresaid choir, is William Gyfford and his wife, and john Gyfford and Alyce his wife. john Hynkley esquire deceased the xxiii. of january, In the Cherch of Thurloo magna. an. Dom. M. cccc.xxxii. and Margaret his wife, the xxiii. of November, M. cccc.xlii. john Bladwell Esquire, and Anne his wife, which john deceased the xxix. of September, an. MD. xxxiiii. Thomas Knighton gent. and Alice his wife, which Thomas died the twenty-three. of April, an. M.D. xxxii. Thomas Vnderell Esquire, and Anne his wife lieth buried in a Tomb in the choir, who deceased the xi. of February, an. M.D. viii. Thomas Stotevyle, In Dallam Cherch. Patron of the foresaid Cherche, Matylda and jane his wives, which Thomas deceased, M. cccclx. Thomas Stotevyle Esquire, and Edyth his wife, which Thomas died, M. cccc.xlvii. Anne, wife of john Terrill of Geping Esquire, of the daughters of Sir john Sulyarde, knight, deceased the xxiii. of February, M.D.lviii. Elisabeth, In the Cherch of Wetherden. wife to john Sulyard Esquire, daughter to Sir john jerningeham, knight, deceased nineteen. of january, an. M.D. xviii. Margaret, wife to john Sulyard Esquire, deceased last of August, M.d.xxi Margaret, wife of Andro Sulyard Esquire, deceased 1 of April, an. M.D. xxi. Andro Sulyard Esquire. deceased xxi. of October, M. cccc.xliii. john Sulyard Esquire, deceased the viii. of Merche, anno Dom. M.D.xxxviii. Dame Anne, first married to Sir john Sulyard Knight, and after to Sir Thomas Bansher knight, who died the xxv. of july, anno Dom. M. Sir john Sulyard, justice of the King's Bench, first husband of the foresaid Anne, died in an. M.D. vi. William Sulyard, the son of john Sulyard, Knight, .... john Copynger Esquire, Lord and Patron, Anne and jane his wives, who had seven. children, and deceased a. M.D.xvii. In the Cherch of Bucsall. Nycholas Tymperley Esquire, who deceased the xx. of May. M. cccc.lxxxix. Water Copynger gent. which died the x. of Merche, an. M.D.xxxii. and Beatryx his wife, the second of February, M.D.xii. In the Cherch of Creting. Robart Roydon Gentylman, died the xxiii. of April, an. M. Simon Powley gent. and Margery his wife, the daughter of Edmond Alcokes, which died the xiii. of October, M. cccc.lxxx.v. Edmond Alcock gent. Lord of the town of Badley, Beatrix and Isabella his wives, which Edmond died the v. of February, Mcccc. lxxxxi. In the Cherch of Badley. Edward Powley, gent. which died the xxv. of january, M.D.iiii. and jane his wife. Elizabeth Garnes, widow, late wife of john Garnes Esquire, of Kenton, which died the second of April, an. M.D.xxxix. In the Cherch W●thering●t. Robart Hamond Esquire, and Alyce his wife, who had iiii. sons and ix. daughters. john Sulyard, the son of john Sulyard Esquire, and Alice his wife, the daughter of john Barington, Esquire of Essex, which Alice died the xxi. of December an. M. cccc.lxviii. john Batysford Esquire, and Margery his wife; which john, died the vi. of February, In the Cherch of Eye. in an. M. cccc.vi. and Margaret, in an. M. cccc. .... john Yaxley, otherwise called john Herberd of Melles, Sergeant at Law, which died the nineteen, In the Cherch of Yaxley. of july, M.D.v, and in the xx. year of Henry the seven. and also Elizabeth Yaxley, daughter of Richard Brome, Esquire, being late wife of the foresaid john Yaxley, which died, M.D. Richard Floyde Esquire, which died the xuj. of january, M.d.xxi Robert Bucton Esquire, In the Cherch of Ockley. Lord and Patron of the town of Ockley, which died the xvii. of December, M. cccc.viii: William Cornwalleys, and Elizabeth his wife, which William died M.d.xx Elizabeth, In the Cherch of Th●endeston. wife to William Cornwalleyes Esquire, who died the first of April M.D.xxxvij. Robart Southwell Esquire, Sergeant at Law, and justice of peace, and Cecyll his wife, In the Cherch of Battam. daughter of Thomas Sherington Esquire, which died the xxvii. of September, M.D.xiiii. Catherens Bouth, late wife of Richard Bouth of Suss. Esquire, which died the xiii. of july, M. cccc.xlvi. Edmond jermy Esquire, In Codnam Cherche. which died the last of September, an. M.d.vi Thomas Barnaby, a Priest that bare Arms, died the three of April, M. cccc.lxxxix. Thomas Sackford Esquire, In the Cherch of Belyng magna. Elizabeth and Margaret his wives, which Thomas died xxiii. of novemb. 〈◊〉 an. M.d.u. Thomas Samson Esquire, died the v. of February, M.D.vii. john Walworth, gent. died the x. of April, an. M. cccc.lxxxviij. Clemencia Walworth, In S. ●a●●ance Cherche as Ipsewyche. widow, died in an. M. cccc.lxxxvij. Margaret, late wife of William Walworth, late of Ipsewich gent. which died the first of April, M. cccclx. Augustine Stratton, Shotley Cherche. and Margaret his wife. Margaret late wife of john Goldyngham, Knight, died in an. M. ccccxiii. john Goldingham Esquire, jone and Thomasyn his wives, which john died in an. M.D.xviii. john Goldingham Esquire, In the Cherch of Belstede. son to john, died in an. M. cccc.xx. Elyzabeth, late wife of john Goldingham Esquire, died in anno M. cccc.xxix. john Broke of Eston, Eston Cherch. died in anno M. cccc.xxvi. Robart Wyngfelde Knight, and Elizabeth his wife, which Robart died the first of May, M. cccc.ix. Sir William Boyvile Lord of Letheringham, and Patron of the cherche ...... Lady Anne Russell late wyef to Sir john Russell of Woostershyr .... Margaret Wyngefelde sometime wyef to Sir john Wyngefelde knight ... Sir john Wyngefelde knight, late Lord of Letheringham. Thomas Wyngefelde knight, Richard Wyngefelde, and William Wyngefelde esquires, sons of Sir Robart Wyngefelde knight, and Elysabeth his wyef sister to the Duke of Norfolk ..... William Wyngefelde Esquyer sometime Sewer to our Sovereign Lord Henry the eight, and the son of Sir john Wyngefelde knight, and Dame Elizabeth his wyef, which William died the iiii day of December, M. cccclxxxi. Nicholas Fastalff late son to Thomas Fastalff esquire, which died in ●●o M. cccclxxix. ●●chard Fastalff late son to Thomas Fastalff Esquyer died, Anno M. ●●●●lxxix. john ●lemham esquire, Anne and Elinor his wyves, the which john died in anno M. cccc. Anne in anno M. cccclxvi. and Lady Elinor M. cccc.iiij. William Wyngefelde knight, Lord of the Town of Donyngton, and ●on of the cherche died in Anno M.ccclxxxviii. William Wyngfelde and Kateren his wyef, Lord and Patron of the said Town. William Wyngfelde and jone his wyef. Raynold Rowsse son and heir of Robart Rowsse, and Elizabeth Denston his wyef, which died in Anno M. cccclxiiii. Henry de Bello monte, son and heir of john Viscount Beaumond, and Elizabeth his wyef, daughter and heir of William Phelippe, Lord Bardolff, and heir to the third part of Orpingham. Which died, M. ccccxlii. William Phelippe esquire died M. ccccvii, and julyan his wyef in anno M. ccccxiiii. Robart Dowe and Elizabeth his wyef, daughter of john Fremyngham esquire. john Shelton the son of Raff Shelton esquire died in anno M. cccclxv. Mabell Bellamy late wyef of Richard Bellamy of London gent. and one of the daughters and heirs of Thomas Boyse of Harrow of the hill in the ●ou●●y of Medelsex, which Mabell died in anno M.D.xxxiiii. john jermy and Isabella his wyef, In M●tle●d● Cherch. one of the daughters of john Hapton esquire, which john died the xii of january M.D iiii. john Wyngfeld and Margaret his wyef, in the glass wyndoo. john Rowsse and jane his wyef, In Lackefelde Cherch. Robart Rowsse and Kateren his wyef, and for john and john, Robart, Richard, and john, Agnes, and jane children to the said Robart. Pray for the souls. joh. Fremyngham died the xii of june, anno Dom. M. ccccxxv. Robart Cheke, and Rose his wyef. john Cheke gent. In Debnam Cherch. which died M. ccccxl. john Nevell and Agnes his wyef. john Hervy and Margaret his wyef, the daughter of Robart Deladowne esquire, late the wyef of Raffe Cheke. john Garneis esquire, Kenton Cherch. and Elizabeth, the daughter of john Sulyard, his wyef, which john died the xi of june, M.D.xxiiii. who had issue vi sons, and ix daughters. Robart Garneis esquire, and Margaret his wyef, which died the xxiiii of March, M. ccccxlviii. john Falstaff and Elinor his wyef, which Elinor died, M.D.xxxiiii. john Felbrydge and Margery his wyef in the glass wyndoo. Playford Cherche. Thomas Samson esquire, which died in Anno M. ccccxxxix. and Margery his wyef. john jenney esquire, Knotfall Cherch. Matylda daughter of john Bokell esquire, and Margery his wyves: which john died M. cccclx. Etheldred jenny, daughter of Robart Clear knight, which died in anno M.d.ii john Hopton esquire, and Margaret his wyef. john Hopton, Agnes and Margaret his wyves. john Norwiche esquire died the xv of Apryll, in anno M. ccccxxviii. and Matylda his wyef the xx of September, in anno M. ccccxviii. Elizabeth Kneuet daughter of Thomas Hopton, In the Cherche of Walderswyke. late wyefe to Thomas Kneves esquire, which died in anno M. cccclxxi. Thomasyn Tendering late wyef of William Tendering esquire, on of the daughters of William Sidney, and Thomasyn Baryngton, which Thomasyn died in anno M. cccclxxxv. Robart Garneis esquire, which died the xiiii of May, M. ccccxi. and Kateren his wyef, M. ccccv. In Beckelles Cherche. Thomas Garneis esquire died in anno M.D.xxvii. Peter Garneis esquire died in anno M. cccc.xiii. Edward Garneis Esquyer died the third of May, in anno M. cccclxxxv. and Elizabeth his wyef. john Rede Mayre of Norwyche, died the xi of November, in Anno M.d.ii and jone his wyef, which had viii sons and iiii daughters. Which jone died in anno M.d.iii More in Beckelles. William Rede of Beckelles and Margaret his wyef, which Margaret died in anno M.D.xl. and had v sons, and seven daughters. Isabella Bowes daughter of john Bowes gent. and Anne his wyef ..... died the xx of january, in anno M.D.xxx. Cove Cherche. Thomas Saint Gebon died in anno M. cccclxxxviii. Margery Barney late wyef of john Barney, esquire, which died in anno M.D.xlviii. Leysto●t. Cherche. Robart Inglosse esquire, which died in anno M. cccclxv. Somerleton or Somorley Cherche. Margaret jernegan the wyef of Edward jernegan esquire, daughter of Sir Edward Bedingfelde knight, which Margaret died the xxiiii of March in anno M.D.iiii. Humphrey the son of john jernegan esquire of Somerleton, died in ann. M. ccccxlvi. Olton Cherch john Falstaff esquire died M. ccccxlv. and Kateren his wyef, daughter of ...... Bedingfelde, M. cccclxxviii. William Bedyngfelde nuper Rectoris istius Ecclesie obijt in anno M.d.iii john Bomsted gent. died the seven of Apryll, in anno M. cccclxxix. Alice Bomsted late wyef of William Bomsted. William Plafers esquire, and jone his wyef, which William died the iii of February in anno M.d.xvi Soterley Cherche● Thomas Plafers esquire, late Patron of the cherche, and Anne his wyef, sister and heir of Roger Denneis, late of Tavingto esquire, which Thomas died the xxi of September, M. cccclxxix. Sir Robart Tie knight, which died the viii of October, in anno M. ccccxv. Monsieur Quier de Welyngton est Dame Hawes sa femme ..... Here endeth the Funeral Monuments within the County of Suffolk. Norfolk. BIsus the fourth Bishop of the East-Angles, The division of the Diocese of the East-Angles. waxing old and sickly, divided his Diocese into two parts; whereof the one he appointed to be the jurisdiction of a Bishop that should have his See at North Elmham in Norfolk: in the other at Dunwich aforesaid he continued himself, as also did others of his Successors, to the number of eleven. Elmham pagus obscurus et ignobilis: Elmham the Bishops ●eate. Baldwin the first Bishop. an obscure little village, and of no estimation, saith Harpsfield, Saecul. 8. cap. 9 was thus honoured and enriched with the residence of many reverend holy Bishops, successively from Baldwin who was the first, until by reason of the great troubles of those times in the Danish wars, this See, as also the other at Dunwich, stood void almost an hundred years, until King Edwy, the twenty ninth Monarch of the Englishmen, about the year 955. preferred one Athulfe to this Bishopric of the East Angles, who governed the whole Diocese alone, and constantly kept his abode here at Elmham aforesaid; after whom succeeded Alfrid, Godwin. Catal. Theodred, and Theodred, Athelstan, Algar, Alwyn, Alfricke, and Alfrey, after him Stigand, who enjoying the place but a short time, was deprived; the like happened to Grinketell his successor, who being convicted to have used unlawful means in obtaining this Dignity, was likewise deprived, and Stigand restored to it again. From whence he was advanced to the See of Winchester, and after to the archbishopric of Canterbury; and being so preferred, he found the means to procure this Bishopric of the East-Angles, unto Egelmare his brother. All these Bishops until the time of William the Conqueror, had their Sees here at Elmham. The said Conqueror substituted his Chaplain Arfastus in the place of Egelmare, The●ford the Bishop's seat. Arfastus the first Bishop. by whose advice the See was translated from Elmham to Thetford, a man very unlearned, and of no extraordinary parts at all: being Chaplain to the Conqueror, who was then but Duke of Normandy, he would needs make a journey to Becco in Normandy, where Lanfranke (afterwards Archbishop of Canterbury) was then Abbot, as also where Arfastus had been a Monk, and well esteemed of for his learning, because that before Lanfranks coming, he was Luscus inter Strabones amongst a number of drones merely unlearned, Godwin out of Ma●msbury. only a little smattering of learning he had, with which he made a fair show. But now by this time, by Lanfranks means, the monastery of Becco was become even a very University, flourishing with all knowledge of good letters. Hither Arfastus coming, after a pompous and bragging manner, attended with a great troop: Lanfranke, who by and by at the first blush espied Arfastus his ignorance, caused an Abcee to be laid before him, ferociam hominis Italica facetia illudens, mocking the pride of the man with an Italian witty jest: which jest or jeering scoff, Arfastus so took to heart, as he never lynne till he had caused the Duke to banish Lanfranke out of Normandy. Howbeit when Lanfranke came to take his leave of the Duke, happening to ride on a lame jade, the Duke fell into such a laughter, at the halting of his horse, as in that merry mood, by means of some friends, he was quickly reconciled to him again. This Bishop died about the beginning of the reign of King William Rufus. William, the ●●st Bishop of Thetford, and the first of Norwich. Upon the death of Arfastus, one William Herbert, surnamed Galfagus, for the sum of a thousand and nine hundred pounds, obtained of the said King William Rufus, this Bishopric for himself, and the Abbacy of Winchester for his father: for satisfaction of which Simony, this penance was enjoined him by Pope Paschalis the second, that he should build certain Churches and Monasteries, which he religiously performed. This Town of Thetford having been first sacked by Suenus the Dane, who in a rage set it on fire, in the year 1004. and six years after, spoiled again by the furious Danes, so that it had lost all the beauty and dignity that formerly it had; this Bishop did all he could to adorn and set it out; but being unable belike, to do so much as he intended, he removed his Seat from hence to Norwich, being a city as then very fair built, spacious, and eminent, where he first erected a Cathedral Church at his own charges, as doth appear by the sequel. Norwich. S. Trinities, the Cathedral Church. HErebertus dictus Losinga, Abbas quondam Rameseie, The foundation of the Bishops See at Norwich. qui sedem Thedford a Rege Willelmo emerat in Anglia magnus fuit Simonie ●omes hic postquam erroneum inventutis impetum deste●issit, Romam ivit ac rediens sedem suam usque Norwicum transtulit, ubi et celebre fundavit Monasterium de rebus quidem proprijs non Episcopalibus: sed et apud Tedford Monachos cluniacenses instituit, hic septus dicere consuevit. Erranimus invenes. Emendemus senes: thus much out of an old Manuscript of the Abbey of Euesham, anciently put into English by the Translator of Polychronicon, as followeth. Abowte that time, Herbert, the first Bishop of Norwich Herbert Losange that had been sometime Abbot of Ramsay, and was then Bishop of Tedford, was a great noury for Simony, for he had bought the Bysshopryche of the King. But after ward he was sorry, and bywept the unskilful rest of his youth. And took the way to Rome▪ and came home again, and changed and turned his See from Tedford to Norwyche. And he founded a solemn abbey with his own cattle, and not with the cattle of his Bysshopryche. But at Tedford he ordained Monks of Clunie that were rich in the world, and clear of Religion to Godward: And had oft in mind the word of Iherom, That said, we erred in our youth, amend We us in our age. His repentance doth also appear by the context of his Charter, beggining thus. In nomine Patris et ●ilij & Spiritus sancti, Amen. Herbertus Episcopus, Cart. Antiq. in Arch. Turris Lond. infirmitatis & impuritatis proprie conscius, ante iustum & clementem judicem Deum, mores & vitam expono meam, ei revelans Inuentut is me ignorantias, etc. Igitur pro redemptione vite me, meorumque omnium peccatorum absolutione, apud Norwicum in honore et nomine sancte & individue Trinitatis Ecclesiam primum edificavi quam caput et matrem Ecclesiam omnium Ecclesiarum de Norfolk et Suthfolke constitui et consecravi Preceptis igitur & consessionibus Willelmi Regis et Henrici Regis fratris sui, & consilio Anselmi Cant. Archiepiscopi, et omnium Episcoporum et Primatum totius Regni Anglie, in Ecclesia eadem Monachos ordinavi, etc. His donations to this his mother Church of Norfolk and Suffolk, follow, which are many and great, for he endowed it with as much lands, as might sufficiently maintain threescore Monks, who had their fair and spacious Cloisters. But after they were thrust out by King Henry the eight, there were substituted for them, a Dean, six Prebendaries, and others. Witnesses to this his Charter, were King Henry the first, and Maud his Queen; eleven Bishops, and four and twenty Earls, Lords, and Abbots: to every name, the sign of the cross. Facta est hec donatio Anno Domini M.C. ordinatione Gregorii Episcopi Rom. apud Wyndressores. The first stone of this religous Structure, was laid by Herbert himself, in the year after Christ's nativity, one thousand ninety six: with this inscription. Dominus Herbertus posuit primum Lapidem, In nomine Patris, Filij, et Spiritus Sancti. Amen. That is. Lord [Bishop] Herbert, laid The First Ston In The Name of The Father, The Son, And holy Ghost. Amen. Godwin de 〈◊〉 Ang. Ma●●s de gest. Regum Ang. lib. 4. This Bishop was borne at Orford in Suffolk, his Father's name was Robert de Losing. He was Prior of the monastery of Fiscane in Normandy, and came back into England at the request of William Rufus, and living in the Court for a time, behaved himself in such sort, that he was much favoured of the King, and obtained diverse great preferments at his hands, whereby it came to pass, that within the space of three years, he had so feathered his nest, as he could buy for his Father, the Abbacy of Winchester, and for himself, the Bishopric of Thetford, which I have partly touched here, and in another place. Having finished this pious Fabric, according to his mind, he then determined to build an house for himself (for as yet he had none in Norwich, the See being so lately removed from Thetford) and therefore on the north side of the Church, he founded a stately palace. And more (such was his repentance for his Simony committed) he built five Churches; one over against the Cathedral Church, on the other side of the river, called S. leonard's, another in this City also, another at Elmham, a fourth at Linne, and a fifth at Yarmouth. He was an excellent Scholar for those times, and writ many learned Treatises, mentioned by Pitsaeus, in his book de illustribus Anglie Scriptoribus Aetat. duodecima: where he calls him, vir omnium virtutum, et bonarum literarum studijs impensè deditus, mitis, affabilis, corpore venusto, vultu decoro, moribus candidus, vita integer. A man earnestly addicted to the studies of all virtues and good learning; mild, affable, comely of personage, graceful of countenance, blameless in his carriage, pure, innocent, and sincere in the course of his life. The Monks of Norwich made great means and suit to have this Herbert a canonised Saint, but such impediments were always in the way, that it could not be obtained. He departed this life the two and twentieth of july, in the year of grace, one thousand, one hundred and twenty, and was buried in this Church of his own Foundation, by the High Altar, to whose memory, these verses following were engraven upon his monument. Inclytus Herbertus iacet hic ut pistica nardus ●● vet. Mss in bib. Cot. Virtutum redolens floribus et meritis. A quo fundatus locus est hic, edificatus Ingenti study, nec modico precio. Vir fuit hic magnus probitate su●uis ut agnus, Vita conspicuus, dogmate precipuus. Sobrius et castus prudens et Episcopus almus Pollens Concilio, clarus in officio. Qu●m .... undecimas Iulio proment Kalendas Abstulit ultima sors, et rapuit cita mors. Pro quo qui transis supplex orare memor sis Vt sit ei saties, alma Dei facies. One Euerard, Euerard, Bishop of Norwich. who next succeeded Herbert, lieth here interred; who although, saith Godwin, he enjoyed this Bishopric for a long space, yet time the devorer of all things, hath left nothing of him to our remembrance, but that when he had governed his Church 29 years, he ended this life, Octob. 15. 1150. Here in the Presbytery lay buried the body of Bishop Turbus, Will. Turbus, Bishop of Norwich. a Norman by birth, being in his youth, a Monk, and afterwards Prior of this monastery. In his time, this Cathedral Church was burned by casual fire, he died in the 25. year of his consecration, the 17. of januarie. near unto the high Altar, Io. Oxford, Bishop of Norwich. lieth buried the body of john of Oxford, sometimes Deane of Salisbury, and Bishop of this Diocese. This man finished the Church which Herbert (being prevented by death) had left unperfected, and repaired that, which by fire was lately defaced. He built diverse Hospitals for impotent and diseased people. He founded Trinity Church in Ipswich, and re-edified diverse houses which were by fire decayed. He was chaplain to King Henry the second, and with him, in especial favour, ever firmly adhering to his party against Thomas Becket, who had stubbornly opposed himself against his said Sovereign Lord and Master. He was employed in diverse Embasies, as to Rome, to Seines in France, and to Sicily, about the marriage of joan, the third and youngest daughter of the said King Henry, to William, the second of that name, King of Sicill, Duke of Apulia, and Prince of Capua. In the solidity of good doctrine, in the maturity of judgement, and in all the graces of rhetorical speech, he did wondrously abound. He was quick and dexterous in the managing, and prosperous in the dispatching of weighty affairs. Pits. aetat. 13. He writ a History of the Kings of Britain, as also a Book, Pro Rege Henrico contra S. Tho mam Cantuariensem, for King Henry against S. Thomas of Canterbury, besides, a treatise of his journey into Sicily, and certain Orations and Epistles to Richard, Archbishop of Canterbury. He died the 26 year of his consecration, the second of june, in the second year of King john. john de Grey, Io. Grey, Bishop of Norwich. entirely beloved of King john, who preferred him to this Bishopric, was here entombed: in whose commendations, Bale and Pitseus do in effect, thus agree. Vir erat foelici et faceto ingenio, erudition insignis, consilio expeditus, et quantumuis in dictis facetus, in factis tamen, ubi res postulabat, senerus, virtutum omnium amator et cultor, omnium vitiorum osor et exterminator. johanni Anglorum Regi gratissimus, in magna semper authoritate apud ipsum remansit, splendidis functionibus ornatus. A man he was of a pleasant and facetious wit, in the knowledge of all good literature excellent, in counsel ready and intelligent, and howsoever in his words merry and jocund; yet in his actions, as occasion did require, he was severe and rigorous: a lover and reverencer he was of all virtues, and a despiser and rooter out of all vices. He was a gracious Favourite to King john, ever under him in great authority, and honoured with offices of especial trust and confidence. Na●● cum Rex rebelles Hibernos compescuisset, eorumque vires fregisset, hunc Gra●ium tanquam virum strenuum magnae prudentiae, fidelitatis exploratae, reliquit ibi supremum Presidem, ut eos auctoritate sua in officio contineret. For when the King, had repressed the rebellious Irish, broken & dispersed then forces; he left this Grey as an hardy able man, of singular wisdom, and tried fidelity, Prorex or Lord Deputy of Ireland, that by such his power and commission, he might keep that stiffnecked nation in obedience. He was well seen in the laws of the Realm, saith Godwin, wise and of great integrity; De praesul. Angl. in regard whereof the King was very desirous to have made him Archbishop of Canterbury (of which I have spoken somewhat before) to which Grace indeed he was solemnly elected, and his election published in the Church before the King, and an infinite number of people: But by the exorbitant authority of the Pope, this election was disannulled, whereupon much mischief ensued. He built that goodly Hall at Gay wood near Linne in Norfolk, and the rest of the Fabric adjoining. Having sat about fourteen years, he died near Poytiers in his return from Rome: Obijt eodem anno quo Rex johannes, saith Bale, in the same year in which King john deceased, the first of November. Whose body was conveyed to this his own Church. He was an Historiographer, and writ a book which he called Schalecronicon, as also other works mentioned by Bale in his Centuries. Walter de Sufield Bishop of Norw. Die vero Sancti Vlstani decimo tertio Calendas junij, obijt Episcopus Norwicensis Vualterus cognomento de Sufeld apud Colecestriam, & del●tum est corpus eius ad Norwicensem Ecclesiam suam Cathedralem, honorificè tumulandus, ad cuius tumbam miracula dicebantur coruscate. Hic namque in usus pauperum, instant tempore famis, omnia vasa sua, & coclearia cum toto thesauro suo pauperibus erogaverat. Mat. Paris, Ann. 1257. Upon the Feast day of Saint Wolstan, the thirteenth of the Calends of june, Walter surnamed the Sufield, Bishop of Norwich departed this world at Colchester, from whence his body was conveyed to this Cathedral Church, here to be honourably interred. At whose Tomb many miracles are reported to be wrought, which are ascribed to his holiness; For it is remembered of him, that in a time of extreme famine he sold all his plate, and distributed it to the poor every pennyworth. He lieth buried in our Lady's Chapel, which was of his own building. He founded the Hospital of Saint Giles here in the City, The foundation of Saint Giles Hospital. endowing it with fair possessions, insomuch that it was valued at the suppression to be yearly worth fourscore and ten pounds twelve shillings. Si. de Wanton Bishop of Norw. Simon de Wanton, sometimes the King's Chaplain, one of his justices, and Bishop of this Diocese, was here interred by his predecessor, Walter de Sufield. He died about the year 1265. having sat eight years, and obtained of the Pope licence to hold all his former livings in Commendam for four years. In the same Chapel, as I take it, Roger de Sherwing was entombed, who died about Michaelmas, Rog. 〈…〉 Bishop of Norw. 1278. having sat thirteen years. Of whom I find little remarkable; yet he is memorable, for that in his time by an incendiary outrage, the Citizens set fire on the Priory Church. The story is thus delivered by our late writers, taken out of Rishanger, the Continuer of Matthew Paris his History, in the last year of King Henry the third. About the month of june, in a Fair that was kept before the gates of the Priory, there fell great debate and discord betwixt the Monks of Norwich and the Citizens there; which increased so far, that at length the Citizens with great violence assaulted the Monastery, fired the gates, and forced the fire so with reed and dry wood, that the Church with the books and all other ornaments of the same, and all houses of Office belonging to that Abbey were clean burned, wasted, and destroyed, so that nothing was preserved except one little Chapel. The King hearing of this detestable and sacrilegious devastation, rode to Norwich, where beholding the deformed ruins, he could hardly refrain from tears: and caused enquiry to be made of the fact; whereupon thirty young men of the City, as also a woman that first carried fire to the gates, were condemned, hanged, and burnt. It is thought, saith Hollinshead, that the Prior of the house, whose name was William de Brunham, was the occasion of all this mischief, who had got together armed men, and took upon to keep the Belfray and Church by force of arms; but the Prior was well enough borne out and defended by this his Bishop. The Monks for their part appealed to Rome, and so handled the matter, that they not only escaped punishment, but also forced the Citizens to pay them three thousand Marks, after five hundred Marks a year toward the reparation of their Church, besides they were adjudged to give to the use of the Church, Vnam cuppam de pondere decem librarum auri, & valour centum librarum argenti, A Cup weighing ten pounds in gold, and worth an hundred pounds of money. Whereby you may note, saith Speed, the proportion then between the value of gold and silver. This end was made by King Edward the first (his Father being now dead) at the request and solicitation of this Bishop. His next successor William Midleton was also interred in this Church. He re-edified the same, being so destroyed and profaned as you have heard before, and hallowed or consecrated the whole Fabric anew in the presence of King Edward the first, and many of his Nobles. He departed this life the last of August, Ann. 1288. in the eleventh year of his Consecration. john Salmon, john Salmon Bishop of Norw. placed in this See of Norwich by the Pope, was here entombed; he was Lord Chancellor of England for the space of four years. This Bishop built the great Hall, and the Chapel in the Bishop's palace, and a Chapel at the West end of the Church, in which he ordained four Priests to sing Mass continually. He died july the sixth 1325. William Ayermin likewise by the Pope's authority was preferred to this Bishopric, Will. Ayremin Bishop of Norw. as appears by the sequel. Cum summus Pontifex nuper Willelmum tunc Canonicum London in Episcopum Norwicens'. prefecisset. sicut per literas bullatas ipsius summi Pontisicis Regi inde directas satis constabat, ac Rex nono die Novembris, prox. preteri●o per literas suas patentes sub Testimonio Edwardi filij sui primogeniti tunc custodis Regni Anglie, Rege extra Regnum existente, prefectionem ipsam gratiose acceptans; cepit fidelitatemipsius Episcopi, & restituit ei temporalia. Nunc Rex ratificans prefectionem & receptionem predict. mandat restituere ei Temporalia. Teste Rege apud Kenelworth, 13. Decemb. Pat. 20. E●● 2. In the year 1319. saith F. Thin, in his Catalogue of England's Chancellors, and out of an old anonimall Latin Chronicler, this Will. Ayremin was keeper of the great Seal, and that he was taken prisoner by the Scots: the words of his Author are in effect thus in English. The County of York and the country adjacent having received inestimable damages by the Scots, William de Melton, Archbishop of York, john Hotham, Bishop of Ely and Treasurer, the Abbot of Saint mary's York, Sir William Ayremin Priest, Chancellor of England, Deane of York, the Abbot of Selby, and Sir john Pabeham knight, assembled together an army of eight thousand to repress the violence of the enemy; this army consisted of Clerks, Monks, Canons, and other spiritual men of the Church, with Citizens, and Husbandmen, and such other unapt people for the wars. With these, the Archbishop came forth against the Scots, and encountered with them at a place called Mitton, a little village upon the River of Small. Over which River the Englishmen were no sooner passed, but that the expert warlike Scots came upon them with a wing in good order of battle, in fashion like to a Shield, eagerly assailing their enemies, who for lack of good government were easily beaten down and discomfited, without showing any great resistance. Corruerunt ex nostris tam in ore gladij quam aquarum scopulis suffocati plusquam quatuor mille hominum; there were slain by the sword and drowned in the River of our party above four thousand persons, saith the Manuscript, and the residue shamefully put to flight. The Archbishop, the Bishop of Ely, the Abbot of Selby, and diverse other, with help of their swift horses, escaped. The Mayor of York named, Nicholas Fleming was slain. Et capti sunt Domini, johannes de Pab●ham miles, & Dominus Willelmus de Airemin, Canc. and Sir john de Pabeham, and Sir William Ayremin Priest, were taken prisoners. john Harding who seldom gives condign praise to the valiant doughty Scot; thus writes of this battle. C●p ●●3. ...... in Myton meadow ne'er To Small water, lay then with great power Walter Warren among the haycockes bushed, Upon the bishop suddenly with Scots issued And xv hundredth english there he slew And home he went with king Robart full glad, With prisoners many, more than men knew The Bishop fled fro the field full woe bestead With his Clerks, that then were full mad. This was called the white Battle, for that it consisted of so many Clergy men. This Bishop died March the 17. having sat almost eleven years, at Sharing near London, whose body was conveyed for burial to this his own Church. He gave two hundred pound for order to be taken that two Monks (the Cellerers of the Covent) should always sing Mass for his soul. Thomas Piercy was here interred, Tho. Piercy Bishop of 〈◊〉 a gentleman, howsoever right honourably descended, and highly befriended, yet constrained to admit of this Bishopric, by the Pope's Provisorie Bull, as followeth. Cum summus Pontifex nuper vacante Ecclesia Norwicen. per mortem Willelmi ultimi Episcopi ibidem, qui apud sedem Apostolicam diem clausit extremum, eidem Ecclesie de venerabili viro Thoma Percy providerit, & ipsum Thomam in Episcopum loci illius presecerat. Rex cepit sidelitatem ipsius Thome, & Temporalia ei restituit. Teste Rege apud West. 14. April. Pat. Ann. 29. Ed. 3. Memb. 14. This Bishop gave unto the repairing of this Church (which in his time was greatly defaced with a violent tempest) the sum of four hundred marks, and obtained of the rest of the Clergy a great sum to the same purpose. He bequeathed to the chanter of this his Church, an house and certain lands lying within the Lordship of Kimerle, Gaeriton, Fowrhow, Granthorpe, and Wychelwood, upon condition he should procure Mass daily to be said for his soul. He died at Blofield not far off, the eight of August, 1369. Upon the death of Bishop Percy one Henry Despenser, Hen. Spenser Bishop of 〈◊〉. Canon of Salisbury, was preferred by the Pope to this Bishopric: as I find it thus recorded in the Tower. Henricus Despenser Canonicus Saresburien per Papam ad Episcopatum Norwicen. vacantem per mortem Thome ultimi Episcopi ibidem prefectus; fecit regi fidelitate, & habuit restitutionem Temporalium. T.R. apud Clarendon 14. Aug. 2. Par. Pat. Anno 44. Ed. 3. Memb. 6. This man was called the warlike Bishop of Norwich, for that in his youth he had been a Soldier with a brother of his, one Spenser a gentleman, greatly esteemed for his valour, being a chief Commander in the Pope's wars: by whose means this Henry obtained this dignity; and having changed his vesture but not his conditions, in what manner of life he spent his youth, in the same he most delighted, even in his waxing years. For in the year 1381. most memorable was the service of this stout Bishop against the rebellious bondmen and Peasants of Norfolk, whom he drove out of their Trenches, slew diverse, and caused their mushroom king john Littestar to be hanged, drawn, and headed; and also caused all others that were the chief agents in that rebellion to be put unto death, and so by that means quieted the whole country: an action (howsoever some will say perhaps, not agreeable to his calling) worthy of eternal honour and remembrance. Not long afterwards, viz. 1383. he had another occasion to show his martial prowess: for being drawn on by Pope Vrban the sixth, to preach the Crusado, and to be general against Clement the seventh (whom sundry Cardinals and great Prelates, Tho. Walsing. in vita R. 2. had also elected Pope) having a Fifteenth granted to him for that purpose by Parliament, (after strong opposition of almost all the Nobles, who resisted this business of the Cross) went with forces into Flanders, to support the cause of urban, against the Antipape Clement, from whence after he had performed many exploits very happily, taken Gravelling, Burbrough, Dunkirk, and Newport, by assault, and been victor in a set Battle against thirty thousand abettors of Clement's claim; he was enforced to return, as destitute of those further succours which were expected out of England. But the King, upon pretence that he had not obeyed his royal Mandate, by which he required him, (before he transported) to return, for a while seized upon all his Temporalities; to which he found grace with the King to be restored, at the special suit of Thomas Arundel, as then Bishop of Ely. The which Seisin and Restitution is thus in effect recorded. 〈◊〉 Arch. Turris 〈…〉. Hen. Episcopus Norwicens'. in Parliamento apud West. Anno huius Regis 7. fuit impetitus de diversis articulis misprisionun unde Temporalia Episcopatus sui seisita suerant in manum Regis, etc. Rex nunc restituit ei Temporalia predicta, T. R. apud West. 24. octob. 1. par. pat. an. 9 Ric. 2. M. 27. There was great contention between this Bishop and his Monks, for the space of fifteen years; but they being too weak for him (as you see all his opposites were) at last were glad to give him four hundred marks to enjoy their privileges in like sort as heretofore they had done. He sat Bishop well near 37. years, and died August 23. 1406. as appears by this mangled Epitaph upon his monument. Henricus natus le del spenser miles amatus Presul sacratus, hic Norwicensis humatus florence progeny ......... ................. M. Quadringeno Vigili sex Bartholomei Christo sereno Regi peregrat requiei. Alexander, Bishop of Norwich After him, the next succeeded one Alexander, Prior of Norwich, was elected Bishop by the Monks, which election the King so misliked, as he not only kept him from his temporalties, but also imprisoned him almost a whole year at Windsor. 〈◊〉 Arch. Tur. 〈◊〉. Thomas Beaufort miles habuit custodiam Temporalium Episcopatus Norwicen. a tempore mortis Henrici nuper Episcopi ibidem quamdiu in manibus Regis existerent, ac fuit custos eorum a vigilia Sancti Bartholomei, an no. 7. Hen. 4. usque ad 23 diem Octob. proxi. preterite. per unum annum integrum, 8 Septimanas, et 6 dies. T.R. apud West. 9 junij 2 pars pat. an. 9 Hen. 4. M. 19 Io. Wakering, Bishop of Norwich. Before the Altar of Saint George, the body of Bishop Wakering lieth buried, who for his life, learning, and wisdom, was highly esteemed: in regard whereof, (before he was advanced hither to Norwich) King Henry the 4. made him Lord Keeper of the privy Seal, and so consequently, he was of his privy Council, in the year 1414. he was sent to the general Council holden at Constance in Helvetia, Hollins. A. 2. H. 5. with Richard, Earl of Warwick, the Bishops of Salisbury, Bath, and Hereford, the Abbot of Westminster, and the Prior of Worcester, with diverse other Doctors and learned men of the spiritualty, besides Knights and Esquires, in number all, eight hundred horses, so well appointed and furnished, as well the men, as horses, that all nations marvelled to see such an honourable company come from a Country so far distant: in this Counsel he so behaved himself, that for learning and wisdom, he obtained the general applause of all the assembly; shortly after his return, he was consecrated Bishop, viz. the last of May, 1416. and having his charge with great praise about nine years, he died the ninth of April, one thousand, four hundred, twenty and five. He built the Cloister which is to be seen at this day in the Bishop's Palace, paving the same with stones of diverse colours. Upon the door under the Rood loft, I find this maimed Epitaph following, inlaid in brass. Hic iacet absconsus sub marmore Presul honestus Walter Lyghart, Bishop of Nor●wich. Seclo desunctus, olim pastor quoque sponsus Istius Ecclesie, cum digno culmine morum Prefuit egregie ......... .................. Dictus Walterus Lyghert cognomine notus ................. Euellens' acriter mala germina fructus acerbi Dispersit pariter divini semina verbi, Anno milleno C. quater septuageno Annexis binis instabit ei prope finis. Septima cum decima lux Maij sit numerata Ipsius est anima de corpore tunc separata. Fili Christe Dei, fons vite, spes medicine, Propitieris ei donans requiem sine fine. This man in the catalogue of Bishops is called Walter Hart. In his predecessors days, the Citizens here of Norwich harbouring in their minds their old grudge, attempted many things against the Church, but such was the singular wisdom and courage of the said Bishop, whose name was Thomas Browne, that all their enterprises took little effect: and now by the policy and discretion of this Lighert, or Hart, the malicious humours of these malcontented Townsmen, before reasonable well allayed, was altogether extinguished. He paved the Church, and during his life, maintained twelve students at Cambridge, with all things necessary for them at his own charges. He departed this life the first of May, 1472. as appears by his Epitaph in the twenty and sixth year of his consecration, and lieth buried near unto the Rood loft, which he himself erected. Here lieth buried the body of james Goldwell, ja. Goldwel, Bishop of Norwich. sometimes Deane of Salisbury, Secretary to King Edward the fourth, and Bishop of this Diocese, who died in February, M. cccc.lxxxxviii. This Bishop was a great repairer or new builder of great Chart Church in Kent, where (as it is said) he was borne. Here lieth buried the body of Thomas jan, Tho. jan. Bishop of Norwich. who died the first year of his consecration, viz. anno 1499. 〈…〉 of Norwich. After the decease of jan, Richard Nix succeeded, of whom I find little worth the rehearsing (saith Godwin in his Catalogue of Bishops) he hath the report of a vicious and dissolute liver; was blind long before his death, sat 36 years, and died, An. 1536. It is reported yet, that this Bishop built the north cross I'll of this Church, and guilded the roof of the same, upon which his cote of Arms is to be seen. In the Chapter House was a goodly monument to the memory of Sir Thomas Windham knight, with this (now maimed) Inscription. Orat ... Tho. Wyndham militis et Elisabethe uxoris eius ... unus constabul ... Domini Regis Hen. 8. ac un ... militum pro corpore ... This Knight, with others, went with Sir Edward Howard, Admiral, into Bi●cay, the fourth of King Henry the eight. Here lieth Dame Elisabeth Calthrop, wife of Sir Francis Calthrop, and after, of john Culpeper Esquire ... Cal●hrops, sometime a family of great account in these parts. Here lieth buried the body of jone, the wise of Sir Thomas Erpingham, Knight of the Garter, as appear by her Will made by licence of her husband, the last of May, 1404 and proved 14 of july next following. Orate pro animabus Thome Windham militis, Eleanore et domine Elisabethe uxorum eius. Qui quidem Thomas fuit unus consiliariorum Domini Regis He●rici octave, ac unus militum pro corpore eiusdem Domini Regis, 〈◊〉 non vice admirallus ........... ............... This Knight lieth buried in the Chapter house under a goodly fair monument, if it were not so much defaced. He received the order of knighthood from the hands of Sir Edward Howard, Lord Admiral of England the fourth of King Henry the eight, at Croiton Bay in France. He did good service at the winning of Turney and Turwin, as also in other places; this hath been a name of exemplary note and knight's degree at Cowtherke in this Tract for many descent. Richard Brome. Hic iacet Richardus Brome Armiger cuius anime propitietur Deus. On the wall by him is a monument with his achievement, cut, with helm, coat, mantle and crest: his Crest is a bonch of broom green, with golden flowers on a wreath. Next him, lies under an arched monument, the body of one Bosuile, or Boswell, 〈◊〉 Boswell. sometime Prior of this Church, with this Inscription on the upper part of the Arch. O tu qui transis, vir, aut mulier, puer an sis Respice picturas, apices lege, cerne figuras: Et memor esto tui; sic bene disce mori. Under it, are three pictures of dead men's skulls, one with teeth, another without an upper chap, and only two teeth in the nether; and the third without either chaps or teeth, between each of which is written, O morieris. O morieris. O morieris. The Family of Bosvile is very ancient, far branched, and of knightly degree, as it will appear in many places of these my ensuing labours: The family of Bosvile o● Boswell. of which in this place, and upon this occasion, I will only give a little touch. In the Church of Sevenoke, within the County of Kent, remain the achivements and Funeral rights of Ralph Bosvile of Bradburne in the said Parish of Sevenok, Esquire, Clerk of her late Majesty's Court of Wards and Liveries, Grandsire of Sir Ralph Bosvile, now of Bradburne, and Sir Henry Bosvile, of Eynsford in the foresaid County, Knights, descended lineally from the Bosviles of Erdsley, and Newhall in the County of York. The inhabitants of Sevenoke say, that whilst the said Ralph Boswell lived, being employed upon many occasions for the public; he deserved and had the reputation of a most worthy Patriot, and out of his particular to their Town, he procured of Queen Elizabeth a Charter of Incorporation, for the settling and government of Lands formerly given for the maintenance of a Free-school, and thirteen Almes-people in the said Parish. For the more entire establishment whereof, Sir Ralph his Grandchild, cooperating with other noble friends in so charitable a suit, obtained an Act of Parliament in the 39 of Queen Elizabeth, besides other benefits procured by him in behalf of this Corporation and Parish. Whereupon a well wishing versifier alluding to the Crest of this Family, which is an Ox coming out of a Grove of Oaks, took occasion to express his affection in this Distich. Dij tibi dent Bosville boves villasque Radulphe, Nec Villâ careat Bosue, vel Illa boùe. Here lieth under a fair marble stone, one of the ancient Family of the Cleres, Clere and his wife. and his wife, as appears by their Arms thereupon engraven, for the brass is quite taken away. Of which worthy Family I speak hereafter. Pray for the soul of Elisabeth Waters, Elis. Waters. and john Water's Alderman, and for the soul of john Waminge Alderman and Mayor of Norwich, and husbands unto the said Elisabeth. .... Upon the wall of a Chapel next to the Chapter house this Inscription. In honore beat Marie Virgins, Beauchamp● Chapel. His burial. & omnium Sanctorum Willelmus Beauchampe Capellam hanc ordinavit, & ex proprijs sumptibus construxit. Herein he lies buried under the Arch in the wall richly gilded, as also the roof. Orate pro anima Fratris Symonis Folkard nuper Prioris Lenne .... qui obijt ... M. ccccci. Simon Folkarde Under a monument in the South cross Isle lieth one Baconthorp a Prior of this Church, Baconthorpe Prior. the Inscription is worn or torn out of the stone. I will not say that this Prior was john Baconthorp, Io. Baconthorpe the resolute little Doctor. the Resolute Doctor who flourished in the reign of King Edward the third. For I find that he was buried amongst the Carmelites at London; howsoever he was borne at Blackney in this County, brought up at Oxford and Paris in France; and so exceeding deeply learned he was as well in Divinity, as in both the Civil and Canon Laws, that he proceeded Doctor in either faculty, in both the said Universities, and got the surname Doctoris resoluti, or Resolute or Resolving Doctor; Nemo doctius consundebat judaos; nemo neruosius consutabat Turcos, vel quoscunque infideles; nemo falicius ex pugnabat haereticos; nemo solidiùs Christi veritatem dilucidabat; nemo manifestius Antichrists falsitatem & imposturas detegebat, suisque coloribus deping●bat; nemo subtiliùs difficiles nodos soluebat; nemo clariùs obscura sacrae scripturae loca explanabat, & sensus reconditos & arcana mysteria dilucidius apperiebat. No man more learnedly confounded the jews; no man more pithily confuted the Turks, or any other Infidels; no man more prosperously convinced the Heretics; no man more solidly declared the truth of Christ; no man more manifestly discovered the deceits and jugglings of Antichrist, nor so painted him out in his proper colours; No man more subtly resolved hard questions; and never any man more clearly expounded, explained, or laid more apertly open, the hidden sense, the secret mysteries, and the obscure places of the sacred Scripture, Pit. Ann 1346. saith Pitseus. Baconthorpe a Dwarf. He was like another Zacheus, little of stature, but immense in wit and understanding, insomuch as it was a wonder to know so many virtues inhabit together in so small a mansion. He writ so many exact learned Volumes, that his body could not bear what his wit brought forth. Name, si moles librorum cius, composita sarcina, auctoris humeris imposita fuisset, homulum sine dubio comprimere suffecisset. For, if the bulk or pile of the books which he writ, had been put into a bag, and laid upon his shoulders, questionless it would have pressed the slender short dwarf to death, saith my foresaid Author. Much more might be said of this little-great man, but I am called for myself to the Press; and to speak more than I have done in the praise of little men, I may be thought to flatter myself. He died in the year 1346. in the twentieth of the reign of King Edward the third, I read in a book of the order of Carmelites (of which Fraternity he was one, as also Provincial of them all throughout all England) penned by john Bale before his conversion, a part of an Eulogium composed to the memory of this Baconthorpe, which may serve for an Epitaph. Thus. johannes de Bachonethorpe Doctor resolutus Carmelita. Hic Bachone fuit Iohannes natus in urbe Mss. in custod. And. Treswell. Anglica, quo felix terra priore fuit. Parisio dulces hausit de fonte liquores, Post tamenin patrio claruit ipse solo. Exposuit libros Petri, sed sanccius esse Est ratus in quartum pervigilare librum. Fecit Aristotelem clarum, inclitumque legenti Dans Testamentum clarius omne navum. .......... Upon a fair marble stone in the Choir this Inscription following is engraven in brass. Sir William Bolen knight of the Bath. Hic iaces corpus Willelmi Boleyn militis, qui obijt x. Octobris, Anno Dom. M. ccccc.v. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. Let it be the greatest honour to this noble deceased Knight, for that he was great Grandfather to the most renowned and victorious Princess Elizabeth, late Queen of England, which will best appear by the Light of Great Britain, learned Camden, in his Introduction to the History which he writ of her long and prosperous reign: beginning as followeth. The Lineage and descent of Elizabeth Queen of England (saith he) was by her Father's side truly Royal: for daughter she was to King Henry the eight, grand daughter to Henry the seventh, and great granddaughter to Ed▪ the fourth. By the Mother's side her descent was not so high: howbeit noble it was, and spread abroad by many and great Alliances throughout England and Ireland. Her great grandfather's father was, jeffrey Bolen, a man of Noble birth in Norfolk, Lord Mayor of the City of London, in the year 1457. and at the same time honoured with the dignity of Knighthood. An upright honest man, of such estimation, that Thomas Lord Hoo, and Hastings, Knight of the Order of Saint George, gave him his daughter, and one of his heirs, to wife; and of such wealth, as he matched his daughters into the Noble houses of the Cheineys, Heydons', and Fortescues, left his son a goodly inheritance, and bequeathed a thousand pounds of English money to be bestowed upon the poor in the City of London, and two hundred in Norfolk. This man's son William Bolen was chosen amongst eighteen most choice Knights of the Bath at the Coronation of King Richard the third: to whom Thomas Earl of Ormond (who was in such favour with the Kings of England, that he alone of all the Nobleman of Ireland, had his place and voice in the Parliaments of England, and above the Barons of England also) gave his daughter and one of his heirs in marriage. By her (besides daughters married to Shelton, Calthorp, Clere, and Sackvill, men of great wealth and noble descent, and other children) he begat Thomas Bolen, whom being a young man, Thomas Howard Earl of Surry, who was afterward Duke of Norfolk, a man much renowned for his worthy service, and atchivements in the wars, chose to be his son in law, giving unto him his daughter Elizabeth in marriage: and Henry the eight, after he had performed one or two very honourable Embasies, made him first Treasurer of his Household; Knight of the Order of Saint George, and Viscount Rochfort, and afterwards Earl of Wiltshire and Ormond, and made him Lord Keeper of the privy Seal. This Thomas, among other children, begat Anne Bolen, who in her tender years being sent into France, attended on Mary of England, wife to Lewis the twelfth; and then on Claudia of Britain, wife to Francis the first; and after she was dead, on Margaret of Alencon, who with the first favoured the Protestants Religion springing up in France. Being returned into England, and admitted amongst the Queen's Maids of Honour, and being twenty two years of age, King Henry in the thirty eight year of his age, did for her modesty, tempered with French pleasantness, fall deeply in love with, and took her to wife, by whom he had issue Elizabeth aforesaid Queen of England. Thome Presbyteri ..... lapis iste retentum Tho. a Priest, who paved a part of the Church. Funus habet, .... qui sumptu dedit hoc pavimentum. Anno milleno quater et C septuageno Octavo Stephani liquit terrestria festo Vt celi detur requies sibi quisque precetur. Tho. Helby. En iacet hic stratus Helby Thomas vocitatus Saluet eum Christus tribuens sibi gaudia lucis. Io. Knapton. Under this stone, Ligs john Knapton, Who died just, The twenty eight of August, M. ... xc. and on Of this Chyrch Peti-Canon. S. Peter's picture. Under the picture of Saint Peter, is portrayed the Sea, a Ship, Nets, and Fishes, with this distichon. Ecclesiam pro naue rego mihi climata mundi Sunt mare, Scripture, Retia, piscis, homo. The figures of the Sun and Moon are painted here upon the Frontispiece of the Clock; to whom the Clock comparatively seems to speak in this Hexastich upon the same place likewise depicted. The brag of the clock. Horas significo cunctas quas Phebe diebus Quas solet atque tua pallida nocte Soror Nec magis errarem Rector mihi si foret idem, Vos qui et queque regit motibus astra suis. Tempora nam recte designo, si mihi doctus Custos assiduam conferat artis opem. In English. Phoebus I tell all th'hours, and all as right As thou, or thy pale Sister, day and night, Nor I no more than you in aught should err If he ruled me, who guides you, and each star. For times I rightly tell, to me of's Art, If my learnt keeper will his help impart. Tho. Scot, Philo. In imitation of this, it may be that Thomas Scot, in his Philomythie, makes a Clock to compare with a Dial, and the difference to be partly decided by the Weathercock: of which a little, although not much to the purpose I confess. Upon a Church, or steeples side near hand, A goodly Clock of curious work did stand; Which overpaysde with lead, or out of frame, Did time miscall, and every hour misname. The Dial hearing this, aloud 'gan cry, Kind neighbour Clock, your glib tongue tells a lie. Reform your error, for my Gnomon saith You gad too fast, and miss an hour's faith. Fool (quoth the Clock,) reform thyself by me, The fault may rather in thy Gnomon be. Hadst thou told ever truth, to what end then, Was I placed here, by th'u'rt of cunning men? The Weathercock upon the steeple standing, And with his sharp eye, all about commanding, Herd their contention, willed them to appeal To him the chief of all that common weal. Told them that he was set to oversee, And to appease, to guide, and to agree, All difference in that place; and whatsoe'er He setteth down, from justice cannot err. This my ingenious Author doth veil under the Clock, the teaching part of the militant Church, which consists of the Clergy. Under the Dial, the written word, and under the Weathercock, the Pope of Rome. Saint peter's in Norwich. Of mysteries Ann Flints soul, Anne Flint. jesus mercy have, Which was the doubter of William London, Whos body died, and was buried her in * thi● yiss grave, The xi. they of jun, by recourse and computatyon XU.C. and xxix yer of our Lordys incarnation, And to all * them yem * that yat for her thus do pray, jesus grant yem Hevyn at their dethies day. Here be diverse Funeral Monuments of the Osbornes, Osbornes. for whom I have not any Inscription. Elisabeth sponsa Willelmi Elys generosi Elis. Ellis. In qua forma decor, & virtus floruit, isto Marmore clausa iacet: et eam lux septima Marci E medio tulit, anno Christi mil. quater et C I simul, V. ter. et X requies cui sit fine fine. Orate pro anima johannis Mers Auditoris Episcopi Lincoln. et pro quibus idem johannes niece tenetur orare ..... anno Domini M. ccccc.vii. john Mers. Prudens Mercator, et nobilis istius urbis Ter Maior Thomas Elys hic iacet et sua sponsa Tho. Ellis Mayor of Norwich, and Marg. his wife. Margareta simul: .... viginti Coniugio soboles, et sic in honore per annos Quatuor et quinquagenos vixere, salutis Anno Milleno Quadringeno decas octo Septeno, quinta Septembris luce sic ipse Decessit, requies et lux sit utrique perhennis. Henry Wilton, and Mar. his wife. Here lieth Henry Wylton, sumtym Alderman of this city, And Margaret my wyff whech leaved in this ward in felicity, And now live here undyr their marble stone in mortality, Wherefore we pray you of your Cherite, That you will pray for us that we may Cum to live in ward celestial, with a Pater noster and an Aue. obijt Henricus xii Decemb .... M. ccccc.vij. Margareta ... M. ccccc. Rich. Ailmer and joan his wife. Aylmer Ricardus procerum de stipite natus, Is quondam Maior urbis iacet hic tumulatus. Natis ... suis ... consort johanna Moribus ornatus bonis omnibus atque benignus. Anno milleno D. bino cum duodeno, Idus Septembris trino migravit ab orbe. O bone Criste jesu fons vite, spes medicine, Votis inclina te quesumus aure benigna Vt sibi sit requies, celo vivat sine fine. Here is a stately Funeral Monument erected to the memory of Francis Windham,, Judge Windam. from his middle, in his judge's robes, with a black cap on his head, his right hand leaning on a death's head, and in the left hand, a book: within an Arch supported up with pillars or pilasters, over his head, his cote and Crest on the top of the Arch. I find no Inscription. joan London. Orate pro anima johanne London filie Willelmi London Armigeri .... cuius anime ... Izod Read. Of your charity pray for the soul of Izod Read, late wife of Edward Read, Alderman of this City of Norwich, which died the xiii. of September, in the year of our Lord, M. ccccc xxiiii. on whose soul, jesus have mercy. In the south I'll of this Church is a monument for the continual remembrance of that valiant Soldier and Commander, Peter Read, who was knighted by Charles, the fifth Emperor, at the winning of Tunis, in the year of our Lord God, 1538. as appears by this Inscription following upon his Tomb. Sir Peter Read knighted by Charles the fifth Emperor. Here under lieth the corpse of Peter Read Esquire, who hath worthily served, not only his Prince and Country, but also the Emperor, Charles the fifth, both at the conquest of Barbary, and at the siege of Tunis, as also in other places, who had given him by the said Emperor, for his valiant deeds, the Order of Barbary; who died the 29 day of December, 1566. Saint George, Norwich. Tho. sheaf and his wife Marion. Her arr buried undyr this stone, Thomas Sheff, and his wyff Marion: Somtym we war as ye now be, And as we arr, so be schall ye: Wherefore of your cherite, Pray for us to the trinity. ... obijt M. ccc.lxxxxiij. Saint Michael of Gosney, Norwich. Non princeps pacis jon pryn's sed presbiteratus, Approbat hoc satis quia nunc iacet hic tumulatus: john Prince, Priest. Hunc clausit terna lux prima menseque dena, Anno milleno, C quater: totque ad et X quoque bino: Altari summo tabulam prebet ex Alabastro, De precio magno, cupiens laus hinc fore Christo. Occidui parte fenestram fecit honest, Ordinis Angelici nec non ter nomine trini. As I am, so shall ye all be, Pray for Margery Hore of cherite. Margery Hore. Now hear a word or two of the name Hore. Versed. in our english names of contempt. I find, saith Verstegan, this anciently written Hure, and I find Hure, to be also used and written for the word hire; and because that such incontinent women do commonly let their bodies to hire, this name was therefore aptly applied unto them. It is in the Netherlands written Hoer, but pronounced Hoard, as we yet pronounce it, though in our later English Orthography (I know not with reason) some write it Whore. I find many of this surname of good note, and special regard in many places of this kingdom. Pray for the Soul of Robart Thorp gentleman, Rob. Thorpe. Citizen and Alderman of Norwich, founder of this Chappyll and I'll, with a chantry Pressed; he to sing perpetually for the Soul of Robart Thorp, the Sowls of Elyzabeth, Emme, and Agnes Sowls his wyffs, the Soul of john Thorp, his kindryd Sowls, friends Sowls, and all christian Sowls: The which Robart ... th' ... yet, M. cccc ... Good Frendys pray for Thomas Warnys, Tho. Warnys Priest. here the second Chantry Prest, who departed this world on Saint michael's Euyn, M. ccccc.viii. Saint Laurence, Norwich. Sis testis criste quod non iacet hic lapis iste Io. Asker, o● Alger, Maior. Corpus ut ornetur sed spiritus ut memoretur. Queris quisiacet hic? john Asker marmore strictus: Sit precor hic illic ubi semper sit benedictus. Quondam Brugensis fuerat mercator onustus; Post Norwicensis Maior moderamine iustus. Hunc ●ulit a ●erris Febru penultima mensis, Anno milleno C. quater, ter & x. quoque seno. 〈◊〉 his upon the same marble inlaid with brass. Qui me conspicitis, pro certo scire potestis Quod sum vos critis, olim fueram velut estis. Vt metear veniam precibus me queso iwetis, Ad vos non veniam, sed vos ad me vinietis▪ Parce meis Domine delictis, vel miserere Ne possim flere sed letari sine fine. Da requiem cunctis Deus & ubicunque sepultis, Vt sin● in requie, propter tua vulnera quinque. Here lieth buried also Robert Asker Merchant, who died Anno 1420. Religious Houses in and about the City of Norwich. 〈◊〉 Hospital dedicated to Saint Giles, valued at the suppression at four 〈◊〉 and ten pounds, twelve shillings. The Austin Friars founded by one Remigius, or by the King, but by what King, or to what Saint dedicated, or to what value it amounted, I do not know: Others say it was founded by one Roger Mynyoth. The bodies which I find to have been herein buried, are these which follow. Elizabeth daughter of Sir Tirru Rosabart: Elisabeth wife of William Garueys ..... son of Sir Ralph Pigott. Sir Edmond Hengrane, and Dame Alyce his wife, daughter of john Lile. Margaret Howard, 1416. Sir john ●owell Knight. Sir Robert Vfford. Sir john Geney, and Dame Alice his wife, obijt 1454. Dame Margery wife of Sir Edward Hastings, and of Sir john Wyndham, daughter of Robert Clyfton, 1456. Dame Katherine Ferris wife of Sir john Radclyffe, 1452. john Bacun son of Sir Roger, 1461. and Maude his wife, 1456. john son of john Bacun, obijt 1462. and Margaret his wife. jone wife of Robert Boys, daughter of .... Wychingham, 1400 Edmond Wychingham Esquire, who died 1472. Sir Thomas Lord Morley, obijt in Calleis. Sir Robert Morley, and Dame Anne his wife: john Morley Esquire. Sir Thomas Soterley Esquire, and Elisabeth his wife: obieerunt 1477. Thomas Wedderby, Alderman. Amongst many other of this Fraternity, I find that one Benedictus Icenus, or Benet of Norfolk, a Brother of this House, and of this Order of Saint Augustine, was likewise here buried in the Chapter house: who died in the year of our salvation, 1340. Vir pius, prudens, facundus, omni serentiarum genere nobiliter instructus, et cum primis sui temporis Theologis meritò conferendus. A man godly, wise, fluent of speech, in all kinds of Sciences nobly instructed, and right deservingly to be compared with the prime Divines of his days. For his singular grace in preaching, and his able power in persuading, he was so beloved of Antony Becke, the Bishop of this Diocese, as that he made him Suffragan, or as it were Copartner with him in his Episcopal function. The Grey Friars was founded by one john Heslynford, The G●ey Frie●s. and of this Foundation I find no further. Some say that the Black Friars was founded by King Edward the second, which, The Bl●●ke Friars. I confess, I cannot contradict. For I find no otherwise neither of the Foundation, the time, dedication, order, nor value, only my Notes from Master Le Neve tell me, that these persons following were in the same interred. William Manteley. john Debenham. Margaret Harpington, jone wife of Richard Wychingham, daughter of Fastolfe, obijt 1459. Thomas Yugham obijt 1455. Sir Simond Felbrigge, obiit 1442. and Dame Katherine his wife, obiit 1449. Dame Margaret first wedded to Sir Gilber Talbot, afterward to Constantyne Clyfton, obijt 1434. Dame Alice wife of Sir Roger H●rsik, 1458. john Pagrave Esquire, 1467. john Berney Esquire, and jone his w●●e. john Howldiche 1487. john lillies 1490. Edmond son of john Hastings, 1487 and Eleanor his wife, daughter of Sir Edward Woodhowse Knight. The religious Monastery of the white Friars or Carmelites was founded by Philip Cowgate, The 〈…〉 a rich Merchant and Mayor of this City, Ann. Dom. 1268. who, when he had made an end of the Fabric thereof, which he endowed with fair possessions, took upon him the habit and order of a Carmelite, and entered the house, wherein he ended his days. In the Church of this religious structure was buried. Sir Oliver Ingham Knight, obijt 1292. Dame Lo .... Argentein. Dame Eleanor Boteler. Burials in the wh●te Friars Carmeli●●s. Dame Alice Boyland. Sir Bartholomew Somerton knight, and Dame Katherine his wife. Sir Will. Crongthorp, and Dame Alice his wife. Sir Oliver Gros Knight. john father of Sir Ralph Benhall. Dame jone, wife of Sir Thomas Morley. Robert Banyard, Esquire. Sir Oliver Wigth, Sir Peter Tie, Knights. Marg. Pulham. Dame Elizabeth Hetersete. Dame Katherine, wife of Sir Nich. Borne. jone wife of john Fastolphe. Thomas Crunthorp, and Alice his wife. Dame Alice Euerard, 1321. Dame Alice With, 1361. Sir Walter Cotet. Sir Thomas Gerbrigge 1430. Dame Eliz. his third wife, first married to Sir john Berry, and daughter of Sir Robert Wachesham, obijt, 1402. Sir Edmond Berry, 1433. And Dame Alice his wife, daughter of Sir Thomas Gerbrigge. Elizabeth first wife of William Calthorpe, daughter of Sir Reignold, Lord Hastings, Waysford, and Ruthin, which died 1437. Haukin fill .... de Com. Lanc. Clement Paston obijt 14 .... Richard, 1479. children of Sir William Calthorp. George 1479. children of Sir William Calthorp. Cecily. children of Sir William Calthorp. john 1400. children of Sir William Calthorp. Thomas 1400. children of Sir William Calthorp. john Deugayne, gent. obiit 1488. Robert Smart Esquire, abijt 1488. Sir William Calthorp obijt 1494. Dame Margery, wife of Sir john Paston; daughter of Sir Thomas Brews, 1495. john son of Sir William Stoarer, 1495. Margaret, wife of Sir Thomas Pigott, 1498. In the Manuscript of this Religious Order (before remembered) written by john Bale, these Carmelites following are registered to have been buried in this Monastery: I will use his Latin. Hi● sunt viri illustres qui sepeliuntur in Conventu Carmelitarum Norwici. Frater Gilbertus de Norwico Episcopus Hamensis, obijt Anno Dom. 1287. 9 die Octobris. Frater johannes Leycester Archiepiscopus Smirnanensis, obijt Anno Domini 1424. 6. Novembris. Frater Vmfridus Necton, obijt, 1303. Vmphrey Necton. This Necton was Doctor of Divinity in Cambridge, and Professor. Erat vi● solidè doctus, disputator subtilis, Concionator vehemens: He was a man solidly learned, a subtle disputant, a very earnest Preacher, saith Pitseus; Of whom Leland hath left this Distichon. Laudibus Humfredum meritis super astra feramus, Cui data Grantenae laurea prima scholae. He writ diverse books mentioned by Bale, as also by Pitseus. Frater Andreas Felmingham. Frater Robertus Walsingham, obijt 1310. Ro. ●alsyngham. This Walsingham, saith Pitseus, was Vir acuti ingenij, solidi iudicij, bonae vitae, magnae doctrinae: A man of an acute wit, a sound judgement, a good life, of great learning. And Bale speaking of him, saith, He was a man of great repute in the University of Oxford for his Quodlibets, ordinary questions, and his Interpretations of the sacred Scriptures, which he made manifest to the world. Frater Galfridus Stalham. Frater Galfridus Mylsam obijt anno Dom. 1346. 5. januar. Frater Adam Saxlingham. Frater johannes Folsham Prior Provincialis Anglie, obijt 1348. April 8. 〈◊〉. Folsham. This Folsham proceeded Doctor of Divinity in Cambridge; Pitseus gives him his praise in a grave stile, Bale (ironically) saith, that indeed he was a Doctor, and none of the meanest: for, by his chopping of Logic he could turn black into white, men into Asses, and Schoole-divinitie into natural Philosophy. He writ many learned works. Frater Ricardus Euges ob. 4. die julij 1361. Frater Willelmus de Sancta fide ob. 25. April, 1372. Frater Thomas Ziburgh obijt 24. julij 1382. Frater Robertus Pulham. Frater Walterus Disse Legatus Apostolicus ob. 22. Aug. 1404. Frater Adam Hawling ob. 25. Feb. 1408. Frater Thomas Keming obijt 26 Aug. 1421. Frater Robertus Rose, obijt 16. Decemb. 1420. This Carmelite was Doctor of Divinity in Oxford, of whom that University had such an opinion for his learning, Rob. Rose. that they honoured him with the title of supreme Master. He writ much, yet never offended the Wicklevists, he lived long, and enriched his Monastery, many as well in estate, as with diverse kinds of Sciences. Frater johannes Thorpe, Doctor ingeniosus, obijt 12 Augusti, 1440. This Thorpe writ many books, as well Divine as humane: but for one he was most remarkable, which he entitled, The Labyrinth of Logic, wherein he showed so exquisitely the subtle Elenches of that Art, that thereby he gained the surname of Ingenious Doctor. Which with his Epitaph was engraven upon his Tomb. Frater Henricus Wychingham, obijt 14. Marcijs 1447. Frater johannes Kynynghale Prior Provincialis Anglie, obijt 28. Aprilis, 1451. Frater johannes Taverham obiit 19 Septemb. 1451. Frater Petrus de Sancta fide 8. die novemb. 1452. Frater Nicolaus Grey obiit 7. Aprilis 1458. Frater Adam Berton. Frater Galfridus Bee obiit 13. Octobris 1492. Frater Thomas Martirxet obiit 18. junii 1508. Frater Robertus Loue Prior Provincialis Anglie 1517. Frater Willelmus Wroxham obiit in Conventu Calisie 23. Augusti 1383. Frater Willelmus Raymund obiit 1. Augusti 1386. Frater Henricus Mylebam. Frater Ricardus Water obiit 5. Marcii 1485. Frater Willelmus Worsted obiit 11 Septemb. 1494. Frater Thomas Penyman. Frater johannes Whyting obiit 24. junii 1524: Frater Simon Pykering obiit 24. Februar. 1525. Frater Robertus Browne 1525. Domina Emma Carmelita reclusa & Soror in Religione obijt 2. Decemb. 1422. Lady Emma 2 Recluse or Anchoress, and of this order Frater Hugo de Vuedale miles, Sir Hugo Vuedal knight. ante ingressum ordinis, obijt 10. Aprilis, 1390. Frater Willelmus Crongethorpe miles ante ingressum ordinis, Sir Will. Crongethorpe knight. obijt 12. Aprilis 1332. Frater Philippus Cowgate magnus Mercator, Philip Cowgate the Founder. primus Fundator Conventus ante ingressum ordinis, obijt 23. Aprilis, 1283. In the years 1348. from the first of january, A grievous great plague in Norwich. to them first of july, there died in this City of Norwich fifty seven thousand one hundred and four persons, besides religious Votaries. Whereupon the Prior and Covent of this house, devised a Prayer for the deliverance of certain Carmelites out of Purgatory, which died in that contagious sickness, as followeth. Deus immense bonitatis, A prayer for the deliverance of certain Carmes out of Purgatory. Ex Mss. Balei de Carmelitis. ac sempiterne clementy, pietatis affectu pro aliis rogare cogimar, qui pro nostris peccatis nequaquam sufficimus; confisi tamen de tua gratuita benignitate humiliter deprecamur, ut per meritum passionis unigenitiatque dilecti filij tui jesu Christi, & per merita piissime matris eius, ac omnium Sanctorum, atque Sanctarum, animas Fratrum nostrorum, & omnium fidelium defunctorum, a penis liberare digneris, qui liberasti tres pueros de Camino ignis arden's, et de manu Regis iniqui. Per eundem Christum Dominum nostrum. Amen. Now here to make an end of the Funeral Monuments which I find in this famous City, as also to take my leave of the same, may it please you run over these verses of john jonston a Scottish Britan, penned in the praise of the foresaid City of Norwich. The praise of Norwich. Vide Camden. Vrbs speciosa situ, nitidis pulcherrima tectis, Grata peregrinis, delitiosa suis. Bellorum sedes, trepido turbante tumultu, Tristia Neustriaco sub duce damna tulit. Victis dissidijs, postquam caput ardua coelo Extulit, immensis crevit opima opibus. Cultus vincit opes, et cultum gratia rerum, Quam benè, si luxus non comitetur opes Omnia sic adeò sola haec sibi sufficit, ut si for'rs regno desit, haec caput esse queat. Thus translated by Philemon Holland, Doctor of Physic. A City seated daintily, most fair built she is known, Pleasing and kind to strangers all, delightful to her own. The seat of war, whiles civil stirs, and tumults yet remained, In William the Normans days, she grievous loss sustained. These broils and jars once past her head aloft again She bore, in richness infinite, and wealth, she grew amain. Her port exceeds that wealth, and things all superfine, this port How happy were it, if excess with such wealth did not sort. So alsufficient in herself, and so complete is she, That if need were, of all the Realm, the Mistress she might be. Attilborrough. The foundation of the College of Attilborrough. The Book of Woodbridge saith, that Sir William Mortimer Knight, Lord of this Manor, here founded a Chapel of the holy Cross, who died on Tuesday the 12 of November, 1297. and was buried in this his own Chapel: others say that Sir Robert Mortimer, and Margery his wife, were the founders of a College here, which they likewise consecrated to the honour of the holy Cross, valued in the King's books, at twenty one pounds, sixteen shillings, half penny. Burials at Attilborrough. Burials in the Chapel of this College, were as followeth. Sir William Mortimer, as before: Sir Robert Mortimer, who died at Attilburgh, the 25 of September, 1387. Sir Thomas Mortimer: Marry Falstalph, who was wife to Sir Thomas Mortimer, who died the second of May, 1406. Sibyl Mortimer died the 9 of November, 1334. Margery Falstalphe, daughter of ... died 24. of October, 1341. Constantine Mortimer, Father to Constantine, who died 12 November, 1334. Sir john Radcliffe, knight of the Garter, in the reign of Henry the sixth: Roger his brother, and Philip his wife: Thomas Brampton, Robert Wetnall. Alice Warner. Elisabeth, wife of Thomas Garret, Esquire. Of this Village, and the foundation of the College, thus Camden writes. Attilborrough, saith he, the seat of the Mortimers, an ancient family, who being different from those of Wigmore, bare for their Arms, a shield Or, Seem de flowers de Lyz Sables, and founded here a Collegiate Church, where there is little now to be seen: the Inheritance of these Mortim●rs, hath by marriage long since accrued to the Radcliffes, Sir Alex. Radcliffe of Ordsall now owner of Attilborro● Anu. 1031. now Earls of Sussex, to the Family of Fitz-Ralph, and to Sir Ralph Bigot: it is the inheritance at this day of Sir Alexander Radcliffe of Ordsall, in the County of Lancaster, knight of the Bath. Windham. William d Albiny, The foundation of the Priory of 〈◊〉 Ex 〈…〉. Lond. Butler to King Henry the first, founded here a Priory, of which, thus much out of his Charter, as followeth. Notum sit. etc. quod Ego Willelmus de Alben●yo Pincerna Domini Regis Henrici primido concedo, etc. Priori et conventui de Wymundeham in liberam, puram, et perpetuam eleemosinam pro salute anime me, et uxoris mee patris mei & matris me, et omnium parentum meorum totam Ecclesiam de Wymundeham cum omnibus pertinencijs, etc. Test. Rog. Bygoth, et filij eius, etc. He endowed this his religious edifice, with fair possessions, consecrated it to the blessed Virgin Mary, placed black Monks therein, and gave it to the Abbey of Saint Alban for a Cell: it was valued in the Exchequer, to be yearly worth seventy two pounds, five shillings, four pence. From a Cell to Saint Alban, The Priory made an Abbey. it was advanced to an Abbey, upon the occasion following set down by john Wheathamstead. john, the seventh of that Christian name, Abbot of Saint Albans, could not endure a certain Monk of the house, whom he had made Archdeacon, whose name was Stephen London, because he would tell him sometimes of his faults. Ordine septenus dum rexit ovile johannes, Et baculum gessit, Io. Whe●onssea● Mss. in b●b. C●t. cetumque gregis benedixit, Nunquam pacifico bene cernere scivit ocello Quend●m confratrem quem fecerat Archilevitam. Therefore to be rid of his company, whose looks and admonishments were so distasteful, the Abbot persuades the Archlevite or Archdeacon to take upon him the charge of this Priory of Windham, as then void of a Governor, in these or the like words. Ecce Prioratus Wymundam nomine dictus, jam vacat absque patre, vacans stat et absque Priore: Huic te prefecimus, in prepositumque creamus, Cur se disponas ●ilec cito quoque pergas, Est lacus insignis apud et nos grandis honoris. The Archdeacon Stephen accepts of this promotion, which is thus in ●he said Manuscript expressed. Aduertens Frater quod erat sibi victricus alter, Pastor et ille sibi quasi prenignus stomachanti, Censuit expediens per tempus ut absoret absens, Quam m●l● sub curuo sic vivere semper ocello, Illius in plac●●um necflexum cernere vultum; Pergere consensit elluc properans et adivit. This Stephen pleased both his flock and Founder, wondrous well, but displeased his Father the foresaid Abbot, john of S. Alban, who within the year, sent express commandment to discharge him of his Priorship, which was heinously taken both by himself and his Patron or Founder, whose name, saith my Author, was one Andrew Ogard. Miles prevalidus, miles locuplesque peritus. In so much, that they joined in petition to the Pope, that it would 〈…〉 Holiness, that the Abbey of S. Alban might have no jurisdiction 〈◊〉 the Priory of Windham, that the Priory might be altered into an Ab●●●, and that the Prior thereof might ever after be honoured with the title 〈◊〉 Abbot; which was granted, as you may read in these subsequent verses. Optinuit tandem Prior Abbas ut sit ibidem Ac Abbathia que cella prius fuit una, Istius Eccelesie, sic migravit sine fine Non sine dedecote dicti Patris que rubore. The time of this alteration was in the beginning of the reign of Henry the fourth, as it is explained thus by the said Whethamstead. M. semel, quinus, C quater tune fuit annus, De tanto demptis numero tantummodo binis, Cum fuerant facta iam dicta priusque peracta, Ista modo celle retractio pre recitate; Tunc exeunte septeno Patre johanne Et Fundatore famoso milite valde Ogard Andreas fuerat qui nomine dictus; Stephanus et London Abbas qui primus ibidem. Burials at 〈◊〉. But now at length (for I have been too long holden in this brabble) to come to the burials in this Abbey Church. First, the Founder, William de Albeney, Earl of Arundel, upon whose Monument, this Epitaph was engraven. Hunc Pincerna locum fundavit, et hic iacet, illa Quae dedit huic domui, iam sine fine tenet. He died the third year of King Henry the second. William de Albeney, son of the said William, Earl of Arundel, he died at Waverley in Surrey, the fourth of the Ides of October, 1176. Willelmus comes de Arundel senior obijt apud Waverley 4 I●. Octobris 1176. William Albeny, the third Earl of Arundel and Sussex, who went with Richard the first into the Holy Land, and remained with him in Almania all the time of his imprisonment, and being full of years, died presently upon his return with K. Richard, the day before the Nones of May, 1196. Hoc anno 1193. obijt Willelmus comes junior de Arundel in vigilia Nativitatis Christi, Ex Annal. de Waverley, in bib. Cot. say the Annals of Waverley aforesaid. William de Albeny, the fourth Earl of Arundel, and second of Sussex, the inheritor of his father's honours and virtues, who together with Ranulph Earl of Chester, Sayer de Quincy, Earl of Winchester, William Earl Ferrer, Robert Lord Fitz●water, john Constable of Chester, and William Harecourt, with a great train, took his journey to the Holy Land, and after the winning of Damieta in Palestine in his return home wards, died the year 1221. at a little town beyond Rome▪ called Kame●● Willelmus comes de Arundel rediens de civitate Damiet moritur ulera Romam, . apud quoddam oppidulum Kamel nomine. Cuius corpus membratim divisum, ex ipsius iussione, in Anglia transportatum est, et apud Wymuna ham sepultum anno 1221. Hugh de Albeney, brother and heir of the foresaid William, who died without issue, in the year, 1243. the 28 of King Henry the third. Sir Andrew Ogard Knight, and Patron of the Priory. Sir john Clifton, Knight, 1447. and Dame jone his wife. Dame Margaret, daughter of Sir john Clifton, and wife to Sir Andrew Ogard. romans. jone, daughter of john Lonell. Izo●▪ Arderne. A gentleman called None, who because he gave nothing to the Religious of this house, had this nicking Distich made to his memory. Hic situs est Nullus, quia nullo nullior iste; ●pon 〈◊〉 None. Et quia Nullus erat de nullo nil tibi christ. Here lieth None, one worse than none for ever thought, And because None, of none to thee O Christ, gives nought, I have read another Epitaph of this surname, but not so well rimed. Hic recubat Nullus, nullo de sanguine cretus: Nullus apud vivos, Nullus apud Superos. None lieth here, of lineage none descended Amongst men None, None mongst the Saints befriended. Reynham East. Orate pro anima johannis Towneshend silij Rogeri, Io. Townsend. et Elianore qui obijt iiii die Octobris, Ann. Dom. M. cccclxv. Sir Rog Towneshead knight. There is also a very fair Tomb of the son (as it seemeth) of the said john and Elinor; for upon it are the same coats quartered as upon the other. It hath no Inscription, but in likelihood it is the Tomb of Sir Roger Towneshead, one of the judges of the Common Pleas in the time of King Henry the seventh. Stratton▪ Bardolfe. On the North side of this Church there lieth one buried in the wall under a marble, upon which is the resemblance of a man crosslegged, all in male armour, his belt by his side, and other accoutrements of great antiquity: some guess him to have been one of the Bardolfes. Barons of great Nobility in this Tract, who flourished a long time in honourable estate. Thornage. Anne Lady Higham. Here is a fair Tomb under which lieth buried Anne Lady and wife of Sir Clement Heigham knight, who died .... aetatis 84. Higham a Town in Suffolk, which gives name to this worthy very ancient family of Higham. Lib. 2. cap. 16. Michael Lord Montaigne in his Essay of Glory, writes that his Ancestors have been surnamed Higham; I have no name, saith he, that is sufficiently mine: Of two I have, the one is common to all my race, yea and also to others. There is a family at Paris, and another at Montpellier, called Montaigne, another in Britain, and one in Zantoigne, surnamed the la Montaigne. Lord Montaigne surnamed Higham. The removing of one only syllable may so confound our web, as I shall have a share in their glory, and they perhaps a part of my shame. And my Ancestors have heretofore been surnamed Heigham, or Hyquem, a surname which also belongs to a house well known in England. Sir William Butts knight, and his Lady. Here is another Tomb on the South side of the Chancel, upon which is the portraiture of Sir William Butts, in his complete armour kneeling, his sword by his side, his spurs, his helmet at his feet. His Lady by him kneeling, having her coat-armour. Here are the coats of Butts and Bacon quartered upon the Tomb; Arwerton, saith Camden in Suffolk, the house long since of the Family of the Baco●s who held this Manor and Brome, by conducting all the footmen of Suffolk and Norfolk from S. Edmunds-dike in the wars of Wales. These Bacons have at this day their residence at Culfurth in Suffolk, Sir Nicholas Bacon knight and Baronet. a goodly house erected by Sir Nicholas Bacon knight, the first Baronet, son unto that Sir Nicholas Bacon Knight, Lord Keeper of the great Seal of England; Sir Nicholas Bacon Lord Keeper. who for his singular wisdom and most sound judgement, was right worthily esteemed one of the two supporters of this kingdom in his time. Who lieth entombed in S. Paul's with his two wives. Who died An. 1578. You may read this Inscription upon the said Monument. Hic Nicolaum ne Baconem conditum Existima illum, tam diu Britannici Regni secundum columen, exitium Malis, Bonis Asylum, caeca quem non extulit Ad hunc honorem sors, sed aequitas, fides, Doctrina, pietas, unica & prudentia; Neu morte raptum crede: quia unica brevi Vita perennes emerit duas, agit Vitam secundam caelites inter animus, Fama implet orbem, vita quae illi tertia est; Hac positum in Ara est corpus, olim animi domus, Ara dicata sempiternae Memoriae. No less worthy of praise, Sir Francis Bacon Lord Chancellor. for his many excellent good parts, was his son, who followed the father's steps; I mean Sir Francis Bacon knight, Lord Verulam, Viscount Saint Alban, and Lord Chancellor of England, lately deceased. Snoring. Here under a fair Tomb lieth the daughter of Sir john Heydon, who married one of the Heninghams'. These Heydons' are an ancient race of Knight's degree. Orate pro animabus Radulphi Shelton militis, Sir Ralph Shelton and Alice his wife. & Domine Alicie uxoris eius filie Thome de Vnedal Militis, qui quidem Radulphus obiit xxv. die Aprilis, Anno M. ccccxxiiii. Blackney. A famous religious house of Carmelite Friars in this late age aforegoing, The foundation of Blackney Priory. built and endowed by Sir Robert de Roos, or Rosse, Sir Robert Bacon, and Sir john Bret Knights, about the year 1321. out of which came john Baconthorpe, of whom I have spoken somewhat before. And now here give me leave to speak a little more, which I had omitted, our of Camden. Camd in Norf. A man, saith he, in that age of such variety and depth withal, of excellent learning, that he was had in exceeding great admiration among the Italians, and commonly called the Resolute Doctor. The Resolute Doctor. Whence it is, that Paulus Pansa thus writeth of him. If thy mind stand to enter into the secret power of the Almighty and most merciful God, no man hath written of his Essence more exactly. If any man desireth to learn the causes of things, or the effects of Nature; if he wish to know the sundry motions of heaven, and the contrary qualities of the Elements, this man offereth himself as a storehouse to furnish him. The armour of Christian Religion, of better proof and defence than those of Vulcan's making against the jews, this resolute Doctor alone hath delivered. Sculthorpe. john Vnct●n. Orate pro anima Henrici Vnton qui obijt Anno Millesimo cccxx. Statton Saint Michaels. john C●●●ll. Orate pro anima johannis Cowal, quondam Rectoris istius Ecclesie, quiistam Cancellam de novo fieri fecit, Anno Domini, M. cccclxxxvii. & pro quibus tenetur orare .... Stratton Saint Mary. john Bocher and Marg. his wife. Orate pro animabus johannis Bocher & Margarete uxoris eius, quorum animabus propitietur Deus. Amen. Tho. Drake. Orate pro anima Thome Drake, qui obijt Anno Domini 1490. Io. Waith and Marg. his wife. Orate pro animabus johannis Waith & Margery uxoris eius, qui Iohannes obijt xviii die mensis Februar. Anno Domini M. cccclxxxx. Quorum animabus propitietur Deus. Amen. Bunwell. Io. Darosse and his wife. Of your charity pray for the soul of john Darosse, and Margaret his wife, on whose souls Ihesu have mercy. Amen. Tybenham. Io Avelyn Vicar. Orate pro anima johannis Avelyn, quondam vicarij istius Ecclesie, qui obijt xxviii die Decembris anno M. cccccvii. Cuius ..... Io. Glover Vicar. Orate pro anima jacobi Glover quondam Vicarii istius Ecclesie. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. Orate pro animabus Roberti Buxton, Cristiane & Agnetis uxorum eius, qui quidem Robertus obiit anno Domini M. cccccxxviii. Quorum animabus propitietur altissimus. Here lieth likewise under a fair Gravestone john Buxton, son and heir of Robert aforesaid, who married Margaret Warner, by whom he had issue two sons and two daughters. Annos spiravit octoginta quatuor, even to our times. Of whom more hereafter. North Walsham. Willi●m Roys. Orate pro anima Willelmi Roys qui obiit x. die Kalend. Martii, M. cccc. Ashwelthorp. Isabella Tilney. Hic iacet Isabella que fuit uxor Philippi Tylney Armigeri, una filiarum & heredum Edmundi Thorp Militis, & Domine johanne quondam Domine de Scales consortis sue que obiit decimo die mensis Novembris, anno Domini, M. ccccxxxvi. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. jane Knyvet resteth here the only heir by right Of the Lord berner's, jane Kneve●t. that Sir john Bourcher hight. Twenty years and three a wydoos life she led, Always keeping house where rich and poor were fed. Gentle, just, quiet, void of debate and strife; Ever doying good: Lo thus she led her life, Even to the Grave, where Earth on Earth doth lie: On whose soul God grant of his abundant mercy. The xvii of February, M.d.lxi Spikesworth or Spixford. Orate pro animabus johannis Styward et Margarete uxoris eius. Io. steward & Marg. his wife. Orate pro anima Georgii Linsted, George Linsted. qui obiit in festo Assumptionis beat Marie, anno Domini, M.D.xvii. Orate pro anima Willelmi Davy quondam Civis Norwic. Vinter. et huins Ecclesie spiritualis benefactor. Will. Davy. Orate pro anima Margarete thorn nuper uxoris Thome Thorn, Marg. thorn. que obiit tertio die Septembris, 1544. Southacre. In the Chancel under the South wall lieth entombed Sir Roger Harsicke Knight, Sir Roger Harsicke knight. the son and heir of john, who lived in the eight year of King Henry the fifth, and in the twenty ninth of Henry the sixth, in whom the issue male ended, leaving his inheritance to his two daughters. Sir Alexander Harsick released to the Monks of Castell-acre, the lands granted by his Ancestors in the three and thirtieth of King Henry the third, and of his own good will to the increasing of it, he gave the Sand pits, and for the confirmation of the same grant he put to the Seal of his arms, hanging at the parchment by a silk string: which manner of sealing was usual in those days. Castell-acre. In the reign of King William Rufus, The foundation of the Abbey of Castle Acre. William Warren the second Earl of Surrey, founded here a Monastery of black Monks Cluniakes, to the honour of God, and our blessed Lady, Saint Mary of Acre, and the holy Apostles Peter and Paul,, and for the Monks of Saint Pancras there serving. Which Abbey afterwards his son, and his son's son, both named Williams, and Earls of Surrey, confirmed, ratified, and augmented. Witnesses to the first Charter, Will. Branch, Waukelin de Rosew, Robert de Mortuo mare, or Mortimer, etc. To the second Charter Ralph de Pauliaco, etc. To the third, William Bishop of Norwich, who dedicated the Church, and many others. Of which Charters, take a little touch out of authentical Records. 〈…〉 am presentibus quam futuris quod ego Willelmus comes de 〈…〉 pro salute anime me, et patris mei, et matris me, et heredum me●●●, dedi et presenti Charta confirmavi deo et Sancte Marie de Acra, et Mo●●●●is ibidem Deo seruientibus Ecclesiam de Acra. Noverint etc. concedo Deo et sancte Marie de Acra et sanctis Apostolis Pe●●o et Paulo, et Monachis de sancto Pancratio ibidem deo seruientibus in ipsa Accra, duas carucatas terre, quas eidem Ecclesie pater meus et matter mea dederunt, etc. Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Willelmus, etc. quando feci dedicare Ecclesiam Sancte Marie de Acra dedi Monachis ibidem, etc. omnes donatio●es quas antecessores mei, scilicet Auus meus et pater meus et Barones sui eidem Ecclesie dederunt, etc. et duas solidatas terre, etc. Hijs Tes●ibus. Will. Norwicen. Episcopo qui eandem Ecclesiam dedicavit, etc. This foundation was valued at the suppression, at three hundred twenty four pounds, seventeen shillings, five pence, half penny, qua▪ surrendered the 2● of November, 29 Hen. 8. Westacre. Radulphe de Torneio founded the Monastery of Canons in Westacre, which did profess to lead a godly life after the example of the Apostles, as 〈◊〉 mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles, where it is said, that the number of ●he●●hat did believe, were all of one heart and one mind; and none of them said that any thing which he had was his own, but they had all things in common, and because (as in the Charter of his gift) he declareth that the holy Fathers did call this the canonical rule; affirming, that whosoever did lead such a life, was thereby made a companion and Citizen with the Apostles. Therefore he pronounceth in his said Charter, that whosoever did infringe this his donation, or alter, or change it into Monks, or into any other Order or Rule, should be held accursed, etc. Olivet Sacerdos de Acra, Galterusque suus filius cum magna sanctitate 〈◊〉 W●slacram, huic canonice norme cum omnibus ●uis rebus se tradiderunt 〈◊〉 territorio Radulphi de Torneio. Ego Radulphus de Torneio cum uxore mea Aclit, omnibus que meis pueris Rogerio Radulpho, pro nobis, et animabus an●●cessorum nostrorum concedimus et confirmamus Ecclesie omnium Sanctorum de Acra, et Oliveti Sacerdoti, et Gualterio suo filio, omnibus canonicis ibi manen●ibus, suisque posteris deo ibidem seruientibus Feodum quod Olivet Sace●dos sub me tenuit, etc. Huius confirmationis sunt testes Gislebertus Blondus Willel▪ de Portis Willel. de Lira, Rogerus Gros. Galterus Capellanus, etc. The valuation of this religious structure, at the suppression, was three hundred eight pounds, nineteen shillings, eleven pence, half penny qua. Catton. Pray for the soul of john Bronde, and Agnes his wife, which john dye● 26 january, 〈◊〉 Br●●d, and Agnes his wi●●. 1542. Orate pro anima Agnet is Wrongey .... Reverendus in Christo Pater Robertus Bronde Prior Norwicen. In a gl●●●e Window. Ecclesie me vitriari fecit, anno Christi, 1538. Frettenham, or Frekenham. Hic iacet Margareta filia johannes White, Margaret White▪ filij secundi johannis White militis uxor Egidij Seyntlowe a●mig. domini de Mayston, filij Alicie, filie et heredis Roberti Burnham de Lynne, et uxoris johannis White secundi predicti. Que obijt in vigilia Natalis Domini, anno Dom. M.D.xxxii. O Crist jesus, pity and mercy have On Alis Burnham, that whilom was the wyff Of Gyles Thorndon, Alice Burnham which lieth here in grave, And her defend from wars of Fendish stryff. Make her partaker of eternal life By the merits of thy passion, Which with thy blood madest our redemption. Snitterton, or Snisterton. Orate pro anima johannis Bokenham Armigeri nuper filij Hugonis Bokenham de Lyvermer magna, Io. Bokenham▪ nec non Nepotis et heredis Edmundi Bokenham de Snisterton, qui obijt xv. die Mensis octobris anno Domini M. cccc.lxxxiiii. et pro animabus Anne et johanne .... quorum animabus .... Orate pro anima Georgij Bokenham armigeri de Snisterton, filii et heredis johannis Bokenham, George Bokenham. qui obiit xxi. die octobris anno M.D.xxiii. Cuius anime ... Ingham, or Hyngham. Under a fair Tomb of freestone very curiously wrought, Sir Oliver Ingham, knight lieth the body of Sir Oliver Ingham, with his resemblance in his coat Armour, his belt, gilt spurs, and the blue Garter about his leg; his Crest, the Owl out of the ivy bush, with a crown on the head thereof: He being a great traveller, lieth upon a Rock, beholding the Sun, and Moon, and stars, all very siue●y set forth in mettle, beholding the face of the earth: about the Tomb, twenty and four mourner's. Sir Oliver Ingham, Stow Annal. Hollins. knight, whom the young Duke, Edward, had made keeper of Aquitaine, gathered a great army, and invaded the Prince of Anjou (which the French King, contrary to covenants, did with hold) and brought it wholly to the dominion of England, anno Reg. Regis, Ed. secundi 19 Bordeaux (the capital city of Aquitaine, Sp●ed. cap. 1●. and then English) gave an excellent testimony of her loyalty, nor less of martial wit and valour. For the French Army coming before her, she to abuse their hope, set open her gates, and displayed upon her Powers, the golden Lilies, as if she were theirs: but the French, which securely entered, found little good hospitality. Sir Oliver de Ingham was Captain, and Lord Warden there for King Edward, who with his Garrison-Souldiers, and aid of the Inhabitants, slew of them, great multitudes, and preserved Bordeaux, anno Reg. Regis Ed. 3.13. Hickeling. The burial place of the worthy family of the Woodhouses, wherein a monument remaineth to the memory of Sir William Woodhouse knight. Sir Will. Woodhouse. Here sometime was a Priory dedicated to the honour of Saint Austin, the first Archbishop of Canterbury, founded by one Theobald de Vallencia, The foundation of Hickling Priory. as some say, others by William de Albeny, the second of that name, Earl of Arundel; valued at one hundred thirty seven pounds, penny, half penny, qua. Wallpoole. Rochfords'. ...: Radulphus Rochfort miles .... Willelmus filius Domini johannis de Rochfort Constabularii castri de Wisbiche .... Tirrington. Thomas Sutton. Hic iacet Thomas Sutton, filius Thome Sutton nuper de Milton, filii Domini johannis Sutton Domini de Dudley ..... Hic iacet Elizabeth Sutton filia Roberti Goddard .....: que obiit ..... Hic iacet Robertus Goddard armiger qui obiit anno Dom. M. cccc.xlviii. Rob. Goddard. Ric. Zorke. Hic iacet Ricardus Zorke, quondam Burgeni ville Berwic super Tweed ...... I read in Hackluits' first volume of Voyages, that Sir Frederick Tilney, a great Commander in the holy wars, was interred in this Church of Tirrington: take it as he sets it down. A note out of a Book in the hands of Thomas Tilney Esquire, touching Sir Frederick Tilney his ancestor, knighted at Acon in the Holy Land, by King Richard the first. Sir Frederick T●lney, knight, a man of high stature. Sixteen knights of the Tilneys, successively. Pertinuit iste liber prius Frederico Tylney de Boston in Com. Lincoln. militi facto apud Acon in terra sancta, anno Regis Richardi primi tertio. Vir erat iste magnae staturae, et potens corpore, qui cum patribus suis dormit apud Tirrington iuxta villam sui nominis Tylney in Mershland, cuius altitudo in salua custodia permanet ibidem usque in hunc diem: Et post eius obitum sexdecem Militibus eius nominis Tylney haereditas illa successiue obuenit, quorum unus post alium semper habitabat apud Boston praedict. dum fratris senioris haereditas haeredi generali devoluta est, Tilneys inheritance devolved to the Howards by marriage. quae nupta est Thome Duci Norsolciae. Eorum miles ultimus suit Philippus Tylney nuper de Shelleigh in Com. Suff pater et genitor Thomae Tylney de Hadleigh in Com. praedict. Armigeri, cui modo attinet iste liber anno aetatis 64.1556. Fincham. S. martin's. Orate pro anima Iohannis filii et heredis johannis Fincham, Io. Fincham. filii Symonis Fincham, qui obiit ultimo die Aprilis, M. cccc lxxxxix. Orate pro anima Elizabethe quondam uxoris Symonis Fincham Armigeri, Eliz. Fincham. et unius filiarum et heredum johannis Tendering de Brokedyn in Com. Suff. Ar. que quidem Elizabetha obiit: ... M. cccc.lxiiii. Orate pro anima johannis Fincham filii et heredis Symonis Fincham de Fincham Ar. qui obiit vi. die Septembris anno Domini M. cccc.lxxxxvi. Io. Fincham. Saint Benet's in the Holm. The foundation of this religious structure is thus set down by learned Camden in his chorographical description of this County. Then passeth the river Thirn, The foundation of S Benet's in the Holm. saith he, near the great decayed Abbey, called Saint Benet in the Holm: which Knute the Dane built, & the Monks afterward so strengthened with most strong walls and bulwarks, that it seemed rather a castle then a Cloister. In so much that William the Conqueror could not win it by assault, until a Monk betrayed it into his hands, upon this condition, that himself might be made Abbot thereof, which was done accordingly: An Abbot of Holme hanged. but forth with this new Abbot for being a traitor (as the inhabitants make report) was hanged up by the King's commandment, and so justly punished for his treason. After the first foundation of this Abbey by King Knute, her revenues were greatly augmented, and her building enlarged by Edward the Confessor, and Editha his Queen, with the consent of five Dukes, and of all, or the most of the Lords spiritual and temporal within his kingdom, as it appears by his Charter in Arch Turris Lond. Cart. Ant. It was dedicated to the honour of Christ and Saint Benedict, replenished with black Monks Benedictines, and valued in the Exchequer, at six hundred seventy seven pounds, nine shillings, eight pence, qua. Clipesby. Not far from the foresaid Abbey, Camd. in Norf. is the Parish and Lordship of Clipesby, which gave name, saith Camden, to a family of ancient note in this tract, whereof there hath been diverse Knights; where after it had passed in the names of Algar, Elfled, and Odberd, all surnamed the Clipesby, as appeareth by many undated Deeds, which I have seen; it came about the first of King john, to john de Clipesby, john Clipesby. and from him lineally to the last john heir male of that line. On whose Monument in this Church of Clipesby are impaled the Arms of jerningham, john Clipesby. Woodhouse, Spelman, Paston, all Knightly families of that country, with whom the Clipesbies' had formerly matched. By julian a daughter and coheir of this last john, married to Sir Randall Crewe, of Crew in the County of Chester Knight, after Lord chief justice of England, the old surname of the Lord of this Manor was changed, but not the blood. For, she left, besides a daughter, two sons; the eldest her heir christened with the name of her paternal family; Clipesby, now Sir Clipesby Crew Knight. She the said julian died at Kewe in the County of Surrey, in the year 1603. and was in the Chancel of the Church of Richmond, decently interred, with this Inscription upon her Monument. Antiqua fuit orta domo, pia vivit, inivit Virgo pudica Thorum, Sponsa pudica polum. In this Church are diverse other Funeral Monuments for the Clipesbies', but so defaced as neither Inscription nor coate-armes are remaining upon them, to give me any further light. Oby. Catherine Clipesby. Orate pro anima Katerine filie johannis Spelman Armigeri quondam uxoris Clipesby Armigeri, postea uxoris Edmundi Paston Armigeri, que obijt xviii die Aprilis, anno Domini M. cccclxxxxi. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. Elingham. Hen Spelman. Orate pro anima Henrici Spelman Armigeri filij et heredis Thome Spelman Armigeri, qui obiit primo die mensis Martii, anno Dom M. cccccxxv. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. The Arms of Spelman and Mortimer of Attilborough. Narborough. Hen. spelman and Ela his ●●●e. Orate pro animabus Henrici Spelman Legis periti ac Recordatoris civitatis Norw. & Eel uxoris eius; qui quidem Henricus obiit xxiii die Septembris anno Domini M. cccclxxxxvi. Upon this Monument are his Arms and his two wives, Christian, daughter and coheir of Thomas Manning Esquire, and of Elisabeth his wife, daughter and coheir of Sir Thomas jenny Knight. The second Ela daughter and coheir of William Narburgh, of Narburgh Esquire, a family of great antiquity, that bare gules, a chief Ermine. Sir john Spelman knight, & Elis. his wife. Here under lieth buried▪ the body of Sir john Spelman knight, and Secundary justice of the Kings' Bench, and Dame Elis. his wife, which had xiii sons, and seven daughters of their bodies between them begottyn. The which Sir john decess the xxvi day of February, in the year of our Lord God, M. cccccxliv. and the said Dame Elizabeth decess the v day of Novembre, the year of our Lord, M. ccccclvi. on whose souls jesus have mercy. Amen. This Elisabeth was the daughter and coheir of Sir Henry Frowick, of Gonwelsbury in the County of Midlesex Knight, who lieth entombed in Eling Church in the said County; Grandmother to that learned Gentleman and judicious Antiquary, Sir Henry Spelman Knight, Sir Hen. Spelman knight. now lining, Anno 1631. and great Grandmother to Sir Clement Spelman Knight, deceased, who succeeded in that inheritance. Here lieth john Spelman Esquire (son and heir apparent to Sir john Spelman knight, Io Spelman and Marg. his wife. one of the justyces at the Pleas before the king to be holden, and Dame Elisabeth his wife) which john married Margaret (one of the daughters to Sir Thomas Blennerhasset knight, and Dame Margaret his wife) and had issue by the said Margaret, too sons and too daughters living at the day of his death; and decess the xxvii day of December, in the year of our Lord God, M. cccccxlv. on whose soul jesus have mercy. Amen. Stow. William Spelman Esquire, Will. Spelman. who died in the reign of Henry the seventh, lay buried under a fair Tomb in this Church of Stow by Watton; and the Vicar and Churchwardens here, about eight years ago, making a Rail about the Communion table, pulled down the Tomb, to make room for the Rail and Communicants. Others of the ancient Family of the Spelmans' lie interred here and at Narborrow: whose names I will only set down being so near these times. As john Spelman Esquire, who married judeth one of the daughters of Sir Clement Higham knight, who died 28 April, anno 1581. Sir Clement Spelman knight, high Sheriff of this County, anno 1599 who died 24. Septemb. 1607. Jerome Spelman Esquire, the twelfth son of Sir john Spelman. Rougham. Here is a Tomb of Sir William Yeluerton Knight, Sir Will. Yeluerton knight, and john his son. one of the justices of the King's Bench in the time of King Henry the sixth; and a Monument of his son, who is mentioned upon it to be Esquire to King Edward the fourth. Orate pro animabus Willelmi Yeluerton Militis et quondum justic. Domini Regis de suo banco et Dominae Agnetis ux. sue qui quidem Willelmus obijt 27 die Martis, etc. ......... Yeluerton miserere Consortis que sue Yeluerton olim Katherine .................. Armiger Edwardi quondam pro corpore quarti. 9 julij Anno Nat. Christ. 1481. Another stone in the Chancel with two portraitures inscribed. Obijt Io. Yeluerton 1505. Obijt Rogerus Yeluerton, 1510. Orate pro anima Domini Io. Swaffham quondam Vicar huius Ecclesie qui obijt Anno Domini 1409. cuius Anime propitietur Deus. Sandringham. Prey pur le alme Du Richard Fitz jean jadis Patron De ceste Maison. Holme iuxta mare. Hen. Nottingham and his wife. Herry Notynham and his wife line her, * that made. Yat madden this Chyrche Stepull and * Quire. Quer; Too Vestyments and Bells yei madden alsoo; Crist him sav therefore fro woe. And to bring her souls to bliss of hevyn Seyth Pater and Ave with mild Stephyn. Hunstanton. Here the noble ancient family of Le Strange lie buried under fair Monuments. Hen. Le Strange. Orate pro anima Henrici Le Strange Armigeri, & Katherine uxoris eius, pro benefactoribus .... & pro fidelibus defunctis. Qui quidem Henricus obijt vicesimo quinto die mensis Novembris. An. Domini M. cccclxxv. quorum animabus propitietur Deus: Upon the side of a Tomb (the names of Roger Le Strange, and others of the name about the Verge of the said Tomb, being inlaid with brass) this genealogical Inscription is to be read. Sir Roger Le Strange, knight for the body to ●ing Henry the ●●●enth. Orate pro anima prenominati Rogeri le Strange Militis, pro corpore illustrissimi nuper Regis Anglie Henrici septimi, ac fill. et hered. prefati Henrici le Strange Armigeri, Fratris et heredis johannis le Strange, filij & heredis tam johannis le Strange, quam Alicie Beaumont consanguinee et heredis johannis Pike, et johannis Rushbroke. Et dictus johannes le Strange fuit filius et heres tam johannis le Strange militis, quam Elianore fill. et hered. tam Richardi Walkefare Militis, quam consanguinee et heredis Thome Morieux Militis. Et dictus johannes le Strange miles, fuit fill. et her. Hamonis le Strange Armigeri, et Katherine fill. Domini johannis de Camois, et dictus Hamo le Strange fuit fill. et heres Hamonis le Strange Militis et Margarite Vernon de Motton consanguinee et hered. Magistri Richardi Vernon: et dictus Hamo le Strange miles, fuit frater Domini johannis le Strange de Knocking et Mohun. Qui quidem Rogerus le Strange miles obiit xxvii. die Octobris anno Domini M. cccccvi. et nuper Regis dicti vice simo primo. Cuius anime, ac animabus antecessorum benefactorum suorum, nec non anime johannis le Strange de Masingham parua Armigeri fratris et executoris prerecitati Rogeri le Strange Militis Deus propitietur. Amen. Hunstanton, saith Camden, Camd. in Norf. is to be remembered in this regard, if there were nothing else, for that it hath been the habitation of the Family of Le Strange, Knights by degree, ever since that in the reign of Edward the second, john Baron Le Strange of Knocking, gave the same unto Hamon his younger brother. Hamon Le Strange the elder, Stow Annal. performed great and good service for his Lord and Sovereign Henry the third, against Simond de Montford Earl of Leicester, and his complices the 48. year of the said King's reign. He took upon him a voyage to the holy Land, as I find it thus recorded. Hamo extraneus diu antequam iter arripuit versus terram sanctam. Ex Arch. Turris London. Feosavit Rogerum Extraneum fratrem suum de Manerijs de Colovere et Henton, que idem Hamo tenuit de Petro de Monteforti. Fines Anno 2. Ed. 1. Memb. 26. Penteney. A Monastery founded by Reginald de Warren, The foundation of Penteney Abbey. brother of William de Warren, the second Earl of Surrey, in which he placed black Canons; it was dedicated to Saint Mary Magdalene: and valued upon the dissolution thereof at two hundred and fifteen pounds eight shillings eight pence. This Abbey, saith Camden, was the ordinary burial place in ancient time of the Noblemen and Gentlemen in this tract. Anno Domini 1326. obijt Domina Petronilla de Neirford & iacet apud Penteney. Ex. lib. Abb. de Langley. Dominus johannes de Neirford obijt .... et iacet in Ecclesia Prioratus de Penteney. These are all I have as yet found to have been here interred. Fornset Saint peter's. Hic iacet Richardus Baxter qui per Isabellam uxorem eius habuit duos filios, Ric. Baxter cowardly slain. et duas filias, et postea ignaue vulneratus inde obijt ultimo die Maij, anno Domini M. cccclxxxiiii. Cuius anime propitietur Deus: Orate pro anima Thome Baxter qui duxit Margaretam filiam Willelmi Drake generosi, Tho. Baxter. et habuit exitum quatuor filios, et unam filiam, et obijt 27. Aprilis, 1535. Orate pro animabus Thome Drake, et Elisabethe uxoris eius .... All cristian people that walk by this Tomb early or late, Tho. Drake and Elis. his wife. Of your cheriry say a Pater Noster for the soul of Tho. Drake. Wendling. The foundation of Wendling Priory. Here was a Priory of Augustine Friars, founded by Sir William de Wendling Priest, valued at fifty five pounds, eighteen shillings, four pence, half penny qua. Elingham near Bungay. Orate pro anima Willelmi Ellingham .... et consortis sue ... Orate pro anima Ricardi Billington ... Petrus Ling Rector istius Ecclesie .... Orate pro anima Roberti Bonefelow ... These Inscriptions above written are depensild in the glass windows. Here lieth buried one More of Norwich, to whose memory, some wit of those times, (but the time of his death I do not know) playing and making dalliance with his name, made this Epitaph following. More had I once, More would I have, More is not to be had; The first I .... the next is vain, The third is too too bad. If I had used with More regard, The More that I did give, I might have made more use and fruit Of More while he did live. But time will be recalled no more, More since are gone in brief. Too late repentance yields no more Save only pain and grief. My comfort is, that God hath More Such Mores to send at will, In hope whereof I sigh no more, But rest upon him still. Hempton. A Priory of black Canons founded by one Richard Ward, who took upon him holy Orders, and lived in this house of his own foundation, which he consecrated to the honour of God, our blessed Lady, and Saint Stephen; it was valued at the suppression, at thirty nine pounds, nine shillings. Shornborn. Here is an ancient monument in this Church to the memory of one of the Shornborns or Shernburns', Shernburne. but so foully defaced, as nothing remains to know the man who lies under it, saving a Vulture splaid, which is the Crest of the Shernborns. Many other Crests and Coat Arms are there also, Shernb●rn, the second Christian Church of ●i is Country 〈◊〉 by 〈…〉. which I meddle little withal; yet to use Camden's words, I do not see how this Church could have been omitted, for that Foelix the Burgundian, (Bishop of this Diocese) who first brought the East-Englishmen to the Christian faith, and state of perpetual felicity, built in this place, the second Church of Christians in this Country, for the first he founded at Babingley where he landed. Langley. The Book of the Carmelites in Coventrie, saith that Sir Roger Helke, Baron, The foundation of the Monastery of Langley. who married Elinor, daughter to the Earl of Oxford; of whom came Robert Clavering, father to john, father to Robert that married the daughter of the Lord Alan Zouch, was the first founder of this Monastery. The Catalogue of Religious houses, (which is very imperfect) saith that the Ancestor of the wife of Sir Francis Bigot Knight, together with her sisters, were the Founders. Another tells me, that Sir Roger Kell, Knight, was the first founder, and that the Patronage thereof, came to the ufford, and Dacres by marriage; but of this name there is a Religious house in Lecestershire, another in the County of Hertford, and so there may be a mistake. A Nunnery it was, valued at one hundred twenty eight pounds, nineteen shillings, nine pence, half penny. The persons of remarkable account interred in this Abbey Church, were these. Sir Roger Kell the Founder, Out of 〈◊〉 of Annal● belonging to this Priory▪ 〈…〉 Coll●●s. Sir Robert, son of Sir Roger; Sir john, son of Sir Robert: Sir Roger, son of sir Robert. Sir Robert son of Kell, knights. Sir john Clavering, Anno Domini 1332. obijt johannes de Clavering a●pud Heyno advocatus Ecclesie de Langeley in octabis die Epiphanie et sepelitur in presbiterio in conventuali eiusdem Ecclesie ex parte aquilonari, eodem anno obijt Domina johanna de Burgh, et hic sepeliri meruit. Sir Robert Thurkeby. Sir Thomas Roscelyn. Sir Peter Roscelyn. Sir Hugh Gurnage. Sir Geffrey Say. Sir Henry Lymesey. Sir Fulco Cardeston or Kerdeston. Sir William Kerdeston. Sir Roger Kerdeston, knights. Anno Domini, 1328. obijt Margareta quondam uxor Domini Willelmi filii Rogeri de Kerdeston militis, et iacet in Ecclesia Abbathie Langeley, ante Altare Crucis, iuxta Dominum Thomam de Kerdeston Archidiaconum Norf. ex parte aquilonari. Qui Thomas obiit anno 1270. Anno Domini 1337. obiit Dominus Rogerus de Kerdeston miles et sepelitur in Ecclesia Abbathie de Langeley iuxta matrem suam ex parte Australi. Sir Peter Egfend: sir john Lodnes: sir john Dunham: sir Charles Charleton: sir Ely Norfolk: sir Charles de jerninta: sir Robert de Grys: sir Robert Helington: sir john Vfford: sir Robert Vfford: sir Thomas Vfford: sir Hugh Gurney: sir William Redham: sir Philip Weston▪ sir Robert de Vallibus: sir john Say: Symond Grys: sir james Awdley: sir William de Poole, knights. Dame Marian de Zouche. Mother of sir Robert, son of sir Roger Zouche, knights. Dame jone, wife of Robert Benhale. Dame Agnes, wife of Fulc... Dame jone, wife of john Dunham. Dame Agnes Clavering Dame Margaret Benhall. Dame Eve Audeley. Dame Agnes, wife of sir Simond Grys. Dame jone, daughter of sir Robert Vfford, uxor Willelmi Bowet. Dame Denys Ynglos, wife of sir Henry Ynglos: Dame Alice, wife of Thomas Charles, Ladies. Stiskey. Io. 〈◊〉 and Alice his wife. In the north side of this Church, lie entombed, john Calthorpe, Esquire, and Alice Ermingland his wife: the monument defaced, upon which is their portraicts in coat Armour. Cockthorpe. Christopher Calthorpe. In the Chancel under a fair Tomb, lieth the body of Christopher Calthorpe, Esquire: no inscription is remaining: a family sometime of great account in these parts, saith Camden. Cley iuxta mare. Io. Symonds and Agnes his wife. In this Church are some defaced monuments to the memory of the Symonds. john Symonds and Agnes his wife, lie buried in the south Chapel. Symonds. Anne and Margaret his wives. Another of the Symonds with his two wives, Anne and Margaret. Plumsted. Io. ●●umsted Here under a fair Gravestone, lieth buried john Plumsted, Esquire, Receiver general of the Duchy of Lancaster. Hunworth. Ed. Branch, and Anne his wife. Under a fair Gravestone here in the Chancel, lie buried Edmund Branch, and Anne Calthorpe, his wife, with their coats impaled. Burrughmagna. Henry Berney and Alice his wife. In the south Chapel of the Chancel, Henry Berney, Esquire lieth buried: which Henry married the daughter of .... Appleton of Essex, named Alice, by whom he had issue, Thomas, Henry, john, Edward, and Richard, and three daughters, Io. Berney and his wives. as appear by the pictures upon the defaced Tomb. Under another Tomb, Another john Berney and his wives. lieth john Berney, Esquire, who married first the daughter of Read, and afterwards the daughter of Sydnor. Here lieth john. Berney, grandfather to Henry Berney, who had to his first wife,: ... the daughter of Southwell, to his second, the daughter of Wentworth. Under a fair Gravestone lieth inhumed, the body of john Berney Esquire, Io Berney. the great Grandfather of Henry, who married the daughter of Henningham. Another john Berney Esquire, Io. Berney. lieth here also under a large stone; the inscription whereof is altogether almost erazed. Thetford. In the parish Church of Saint mary's, a fair monument thus inscribed. In memoriam Radulphi Fulmerston Equitis aurati, Sir Raph● Fulmerston and Alice his Lady. Dominiceque Alicie uxoris eius ... Edwardus Clere Armiger hunc Tumulum erexit ... Transit sicut Fulmerston gloria mundi, Propitietur Deus animabus Mortuorum. Saint peter's. Hic iacet Willelmus Knighton: Will. Knigton. Peter Lark and his wife. ... M. cccc.lxix. .... Peter Lark and Elisabeth his wyff, on whose souls sweet jesus have pite. Saint Cuthberts'. ...... johannes Bernard et Elis ..... M. ccccc.xi. Here in this town was a Religious house of Friar's Preachers, The foundation of the Friar's Preachers dedicated to the holy Trinity, and Saint Mary, which Arfast, Bishop of the East-Angles, made his Episcopal chair. Afterwards, Henry, Duke of Lancaster, made it a society of Friar's Preachers; it was valued at thirty nine pounds, Arfastus, Bishop of Thetford. six shillings, nine pence. Arfast, who died circa annum, 1092. was herein buried, with this Epitaph upon his monument. Hic Arfaste pie pater optime et Arca sophy Ex Mss An●n. in bib. Cot. Vivis per merita virtutum laude perita: Vos qui transitis hic omnes atque reditis Dicite quod Christi pietas sit promptior isti. 〈◊〉 ●●●ers Augustine's in this I own was founded by john of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, and Blanche his wife: others say, by Henry Earl of Lancaster and Leicester. It was valued at three hundred twelve pounds, fourteen shillings four pence. Here lie buried Dame Margery Todenham, Dame Elisabeth, wife of Sir Thomas H●ngraue, daughter of Sir john Harling, with many other, you may imagine, whose names I have not. The black Friars here was founded by Sir Edmond Gonvile, Lord of ●ir●ingford in this County, Parson of Terington, and Steward with john E●●e Warren, and with Henry Duke of Lancaster. It was dedicated to S. Sepulchre, The value I have not learned. Buried in the Church of this monastery were, Sir john Bret● knight, Dame Agnes Honell, Dame Maud Tal●●e, wife of Peter Lord of Rickinghill, Dame Anastisia, wife of Sir Richard Walsingham. A Priory of black Canons dedicated to Saint Mary, and Saint john was here founded by one of the Bigods, or Bigots, Earl of Norfolk. Valued at forty nine pounds eighteen shillings and a penny. Surrendered the 16. of February, 31. Hen. 8. Here was a religious structure for black Nuns, consecrated to the honour of God and Saint Gregory, but by whom sounded I do not know; It was valued in the Exchequer at fifty pound nine shillings eight pence. I●● College 〈◊〉 Thetford. Here sometimes stood a College or gild dedicated to the blessed Virgin Mary: valued at the suppression to be yearly worth one hundred nine pounds seven shillings. The foundation of the 〈◊〉 Monastery at Thetford. Hugh Bigod or Bigot, Steward of the House to King Henry the first, built, and endowed a religious House here, for black Monks Benedictines or Cluniacks. These words following are in the Instrument of his Foundation. Ca●●d. in Norf. I Hugh Bigod Steward to King Henry, by his grant, and by the advice of He●bert Bishop of Norwich, have ordained Monks of the Order of Clunie, in the Church of S. Mary, which was the Episcopal seat of Thetford, which I gave unto them, and afterwards founded another more meet for their use, without the Town. This Monastery was found at the suppression to be in the King's books, four hundred eighteen pounds six shillings, three pence half penny, of yearly revenues. This Hugh the Founder was created Earl of Norfolk by King Stephen in the first year of his reign. He died very aged in the 24. year of King Henry the second, and was buried in this Priory of his own foundation, to whose memory this Inscription was engraven upon his Funeral Monument. Orate pro anima religiosissimi viri Hugonis Bigod Fundatoris huius Monasterij, Hugh Bigot Earl of Norf. Seneschalli Hospitij prepotentissimo Principi Henrico Conquestoris filio Anglie Regi, et Comitis Norfolcie, qui quidem Hugo obiit pridie Kalend. Martii anno milesimo centesimo septuagesimo octavo. Propter miserecordiam jesu requiescat in pace. Anno 1107. Optimates Angliae Richardus de Radvarijs, Orderie. Vital. Vtic. Ecclesiast. Hist. lib. 11. Roger Bigot Sewer to king Hen. the 〈◊〉. & Rogerius cognomento Bigotus, mortui sunt, & in Monasteriis Monachorum sepulti sunt, quae in propriis possessionibus ipsi condiderunt. Rogerius autem apud Thetfordum in Anglia, Richardus vero tumulatus apud Montisburgum in Normannia. Super Rogerium Cluniacenses Alonax di tale scripserunt Epitaphium. Clauderis exiguo Rogere Bigote sepulchro Et rerum cedit portio parva tibi. Divitiae, sanguis, facundia, gratia Regum Intereunt, mortem fallere nemo potest. Divitiae mentes subvertunt, erigat ergo Te pietas, virtus, consiliumque Dei. Soli moerebat virgo ter noctibus octo, cum soluis morti debita morte tua. It should seem by the premises that this Roger Bigot, who was Sewer to King Henry the first, and Father of the foresaid Hugh: was the first founder of this religious Edifice, or at least wise of some other in this Town, for Monks of the order of Clunie. And Stow in his Annals agrees with my Author Ordericus. This year, Stow 〈…〉 saith he, Maurice Bishop of London, Robert Fitzhamon, Roger Bigot, founder of the Monastery of Monks at Thetford, Richard Redvers Counsellors to the King, Milo Crispen, and many other Noblemen of England deceased. Roger Bigot, Roger Bigot Earl of Norf. the second of that surname, Earl of the East Angles, or Norfolk. He died about the year 1218. and was here interred. Hugh Bigot, Hugh Bigot Earl of Norf. son of the foresaid Roger, Earl of Norfolk, lay here buried, who died the ninth of Henry the third, 1225: Roger Bigot son and heir of Hugh aforesaid, Roger Bigot Earl of Norf. Martial of England. Earl of Norfolk, and first Marshal of England of that Family was here entombed, if his last will and Testament was performed. Of which so much as tends to that purpose. In Nomine Patris, His Will out of Camden's collections, in bib. Ce●●. et Filij, et Spiritus Sancti. Amen. Ego Rogerus Bigot Comes Norfolcie et Mareschallus Anglie in bona prosperitate constitutus condo Testamentum meum sub hac forma. Inprimis, commendo animam meam Christo, etc. et corpus meum in Ecclesia beat Marie Thetfordie sepeliendum. Postea lego, etc. Huius Testamenti Executores constituo, Dominum Symonem de Monteforti Com. Lecestren. Dominum Richardum de Clara Com. Glovern. & Hertford. Dominum Willelmum Malberbe Dominum Thomam Denebanke. Dominum Hugonem de Tudeham, etc. Dat. apud Cestreford die Mercurij proximo ante festum Sancti Barnabe Apostoli, anno Domini, M.cclviii. He died about eleven years after the making of his will, without issue, of a bruise running at Tilt, anno 1269. Roger Bigot the last of that Family, Earl of Norfolk, and Marshal of England, Roger Bigot Earl of Norf. and Martial of England the last, and Alina his wife. was here buried, together with his first wife Alina, Alyva, or Adeliza, daughter of Philip Lord Basset, and widow of Hugh de Spenser, justice of England: she died in April, in the ninth year of Edward the first, and he in the 35. of the said King's reign. Io Mowbray Duke of Norfolk, and Eleanor his wife. john Lord Mowbray, Duke of Norfolk, Earl Martial of England, Earl of Nottingham, Lord and Baron of Segraue, and of Gower, son and successor of john, the first Duke of Norfolk in the dignities aforesaid, was here entombed with his wife Elinor, daughter of William Lord Bourchier, and sister of Henry Bourchier, Earl of Essex. He died in the first year of King Edward the fourth. john Lord Mowbray Duke of Norfolk. john Mowbray son of john aforesaid, who in his Father's days was created Earl Warren and Surrey: and having enjoyed these and his father's Honours for the space, died without issue at his Castle of Framingham in Suffolk, in the fifteenth year of King Edward the fourth, and was here entombed. john Lord Howard Duke of Norfolk. Sir john Howard knight, (son of Sir Robert Howard knight, and of Margaret his wife, daughter and coheir of Thomas Mowbray Duke of Norfolk) first made Baron by king Edward the fourth, 1461. Quia postea constituit eum Capitaneum Armate potenty super mare, Ex Arch▪ Turr. Lond. Test. Rege apud West. Pat. anno 10. Ed. 4. M. 13. was here interred, as I find in the Collections of Francis Thin Lancaster Herald. In the year 1483. he was created Duke of Norfolk by King Richard the third, in whose aid he was slain at Bosworth field on Monday the two and twentieth of Aug. 1485. He was warned by diverse to refrain from the field, insomuch that the night before he should set forward toward the King, one wrote this rhyme upon his gate: Hollins. pa. 759. jack of Norfolk be not too bold For Dikon thy Master is bought and sold. Yet all this, notwithstanding, he regarding more his oath, his honour, and promise made to King Richard, like a gentleman, and as a faithful subject to his Prince, absented not himself from his master, but as he faithfully lived under him, so he manfully died with him, to his great fame and laud. And therefore though his service was ill employed in aid of a Tyrant (whom it had been more honourable to have suppressed then supported) yet because he had upon his fealty undertaken to fight in his quarrel, he thought it less loss of life and living, then of glory and honour; so that he might have said in respect of his loyalty, and promised truth testified with constancy to the death; Est mihi supplicium causa fuisse pium. This passage is wondrously well delivered to us in verse, by an honourable late writer, thus. Sir john Beaumond Baronet deceased, in his Poem of Bosworth field. Long since the King had thought it time to send For trusty Norfolk, his undaunted friend, Who hasting from the place of his abode, Found at the door a world of papers strowed; Some would affright him from the Tyrant's aid, Affirming that his Master was betrayed; Some laid before him all those bloody deeds, From which a line of sharp revenge proceeds With much compassion, that so brave a Knight Should serve a Lord, against whom Angels fight; And others put suspicions in his mind, That Richard most observed, was most unkind. The Duke a while these cautious words revolues With serious thoughts, and thus at last resolves. If all the Camp prove traitors to my Lord, Shall spotless Norfolk falsify his word; Mine oath is past, I swore t'uphold his Crown, And that shall swim, or I with it will drown. It is too late now to dispute the right, Dare any tongue since York spread forth his light, Northumberland, or Buckingham defame, Two valiant Cliffords, Roos, or Beaumont's name, Because they in the weaker quarrel die? They had the King with them, and so have I. But every eye the face of Richard shuns For that foul murder of his brother's sons: Yet laws of Knighthood gave me not a sword To strike at him; whom all with joint accord Have made my Prince, to whom I tribute bring▪ I hate his vices, but adore the King. Victorious Edward, if thy soul can hear Thy servant Howard, I devoutly swear, That to have saved thy children from that day, My hopes on earth should willingly decay; Would Glouster then my perfect faith had tried, And made two graves, when Noble Hastings died. This said, his troops he into order brings. A little after he gives us a touch of the Duke's valour, and deciphers the manner of his death, in these matchless numbers which follow: Here valiant Oxford and fierce Norfolk meet, And with their spears each other rudely greet; About the air the shivered pieces play, Then on their swords their Noble hands they lay, And Norfolk first a blow directly guides To Oxford's head, which from his helmet slides Upon his arm, and biting through the steel, Inflicts a wound, which Vere disdains to feel, He lifts his Falchion with a threatening grace, And hews the Beaver off from howard's face▪ This being done, he with compassion charmed Retires, ashamed to strike a man disarmed: But strait a deadly shaft, sent from a bow, (Whose master, though far off, the Duke could know) Untimely brought this combat to an end, And pierced the brain of Richard's constant friend. When Oxford saw him sink, his noble soul Was full of grief, which made him thus condole. Farewell true Knight, to whom no costly grave Can give due honour: would my tears might save Those streams of blood, deserving to be spilt In better service: had not Richard's guilt Such heavy weight upon his fortune laid Thy glorious virtues had his sins outwaighd. Thomas Howard, Duke of Norfolk. Sir Thomas Howard, Knight of the Garter, Earl of Surrey, and Duke of Norfolk, son and heir of the foresaid john, thus slain, was here likewise entombed: who died in the sixteenth year of the reign of King Henry the eight, 1524. This Thomas was with his father in the forefront of the foresaid Battle, where he had the leading of the Archers, which King Richard so placed, as a bulwark to defend the rest. The martial prowess of this Earl in the pight field, and his resolute brave carriage being taken prisoner, are delineated to the life by my said Author Sir john Beaumond, the particulars whereof, if they may seem as pleasing to you in the reading, as they were to me in the writing, cannot be any way tedious here to set down: for they are sinnewy strong lives, and will draw you, no doubt, with them along. Courageous Talbot, had with Surrey met, And after many blows begins to fret, That one so young in Arms, should thus unmoved, Resist his strength, so oft in war approved. And now the Earl beholds his father's fall, Whose death like horrid darkness frighted all: Some give themselves as captives, others fly; But this young Lion casts his generous eye On Mowbrayes' Lion, painted in his shield, And with that King of beasts, repines to yield The field (saith he) in which the Lion stands, Is blood, and blood I offer to the hands Of daring foes; but never shall my flight die black my Lion, which as yet is white. His enemies (like cunning Huntsmen) strive, In binding snares to take their prey alive, While he desires t'expose his naked breast, And thinks the sword that deepest strikes, is best. Young Howard single with an Army fights, When moved with pity, two renowned knights, Strong Clarindon, and valiant Coniers try, To rescue him, in which attempt they die. Now Surrey fainting, scarce his sword can hold, Which made a common soldier grow so bold, To lay rude hands upon that noble flower, Which he disdaining (anger gives him power) Erects his weapon with a nimble round, And sends the Peasant's arm to kiss the ground: This done, to Talbot he presents his blade, And saith, It is not hope of life hath made This my submission, but my strength is spent, And some perhaps of villain blood will vent My weary soul: this favour I demand, That I may dye by your victorious hand. Nay God forbid, that any of my name (Quoth Talbot) should put out so bright a flame, As burns in thee (brave youth) where thou hast erred, It was thy father's ●ault, since he preferred A Tyrant's Crown, before the juster side. The Earl still mindful of his birth, replied. I Wonder Talbot, that thy noble heart Insults on ruins of the vanquished part: We had the right, if now to you it flow, The fortune of your swords hath made it so: I never will my luckless choice repent, Nor can it stain mine honour or descent, Set England's Royal wreath upon a stake, There will I fight, and not the place forsake. And if the will of God hath so disposed, That Richmond's brow be with the Crown enclosed, I shall to him or his, give doubtless signs, That duty in my thoughts, not faction, shines: Which he proved to be true in the whole course of his life, which was depensild upon a Table, and fixed here to his funeral monument; a copy whereof it was my hap to have out of the original, of which, so much as concerns the subject I here speak of: in the same Character: FOr as much as it is wryttyn in the epitaph about the Tomb here present, of the high and mighty Prince, Thomas, late Duke of Norfolk after his descent from his noble antecessours, declared in the same in writing, which is also set out in arms about the same Tomb. That who will see farther of the manner of his living and service done by him to his Pryncis; And of his honourable deperting out of this world, schall resort and look in this Table. Fyrst you schall know the said Duke was in his young age, after he had been a sufficient season at the grammar school, Hencheman to King Edward the iiii. and was than called Thomas Howard, Son and heir to Sir john Howard Knight, after, Lord Howard, and after that, Duke of Norfolk of right inheritance; and the said Thomas Howard when he was at man's age, was with diverse other Gentlemen of england, sent to Charles, Duke of Burg●n in the beginning of the wars betwixt King jews of France, and the said Duke Charles, and there continued unto th'end of the said wars, to his great praise and thanks. As well of King Edward his own sovereign Lord, as of the said Duke Charles. And after the wars done betwixt the said King jews, and the said Duke Charles, Than the said Thomas Howard returned in to england, vn to King Edward his sovereign Lord: And he made him immediately esquire for his body. And he was about him at his making ready both evening and morning. And afterward he made him knight at the marriage of the Duke of York, King Edward his seconde son. And so he was with the said King Edward in all his business, aswell at Lyncolne Shire field, & at the time of Banberyfeld, as at all other his business And also at such time as the same King was take by the Earl of Warwyke at Warwyke before his escape and departing in to Flaunders. And after the Kyngys' deperting in to Flaunders, for that the Coostis of england were so set ffor deperting of any other his seruauntiss and friends, the said Thomas Howard was dryvyn of fforce to take Sayntwary of saint joannes in Colchester for the true service he bore vn to King Edward; and at the said Kyngys' return out of Flaunders, the said Sir Thomas Howard resorted vn to him and went with him to Barnet field, and there was sore hurt. And after when King Edward went into France with his Army Ryall, he sent thither before, diverse gentylmen, And for that the said Sir Thomas Howard had good experience aswell in his being with Charles Duke of Burgon, as in diverse Feldies and busynesses witthe said King Edward, he had therefore Commandment to go over with them, For his advice and counsel till the said King came over, And when King Edward and King jews met at the Barriars upon the river of Some, the said Sir Thomas Howard was with king Edward at the Barriars by the kyngis commandment and no more Men save only the chancellor of england, the chancellor of France, and Sir john Cheney. And after the kyngiss coming home into england, the said Sir Thomas Howard obtained licence of the king to lie in Norfolk at an howsse which he had in the right of my Lady his wife, called Asshewelthorpe, and there he lay and kept an honourable howsse, in the favour of the hole Shire, during the life of the said king Edward, and at that time and long after my Lord his father was alive. And after king Edward was ded, and king Edward the fifth his Son; than king Richard was king, And than the forseid Sir Thomas Howard was his subject, And for that the young Duchess of Norfolk which was very heir thereunto, was ded without issue; And the Lord Howard, Father to the said Sir Thomas Howard, was rightful heir to the same off former descent, was creatt Duke of Norfolk, and he creatt Earl of Surrey: And so they both served the said king Richard truly as his subjects during his life, lying at home in their own Countries and keeping honourable howsses. And they went with him to Bosworthe field, where the said king Richard was slain, and also the said Duke of Norfolk, And thafforseid earl hurt, and take upon the field, and put in the Tower of London, by king Henry the seven, and there continued three yeeries and an half. In which time of his being in the Tower, the same king Henry had a field with the Earl of Lyncolne in Notyngham Shire besydies Newarke, and the leeffetenant of the Tower came to the said earl, and proffered to him the keys to go out at his pleasure; and he answered him again, that he would not deperte thence, vn to such time as he that commanded him thither, should command him out again, which was king Henry the seven. but charged the leffetenant upon his alligeaunce if the king war on live to bring him there, as the king was, to the●tente he might do his Grace service, and after that for the true and faithful service that the said king Henry herd of him done to his other Prince; and also that he saw himself, he died on Bosworth field, and for the great preyse and truth that he herd of him whills he was prisoner, and that he would nat, though he had liberty, come out of the Tower at the Earl of Lyncolnes' field, he took him out to his presence, and to be about his own person. And within x. weeks after his coming out of the Tower, there was an Insurrection in the north by whom the Earl of Northombrelond was slay in the field, and also the city of York won●e with a sauce by force; And for the subduing of those Rebels, the king assembled a great host of his subjects, and took his journey towards them from the Castle of Hertford; and the said Earl of Surrey made chief captain of his vanguard, and appointed under him in the said vanguard, the Earl of Shrewesbury, the Lord hastings, Sir William Stanley, than being the kings Chambrelayn, Sir Rice ap Thomas, Sir Thomas Bowser, Sir john Savage, Sir john Ryseley, and dyvers other, And when this journey was done the Capiteynes of these Rebels, and many other of them were put to execution, And for the syngul●r trust that the king had to the said earl, and the activyte that he saw in him, he left him in the North, and made him his Lyve●enaunt general from Trent Northward, and Warden of the Est and middle Marches of england, against Scotlond, and justice of the Forests from Trent Northward, and there he continued x years; and kept the country in peace with policy▪ and many pains taking without which it would nat have been, for that the country had been so lately ponyss●ed, and nat without desert, And thus he died the hole time of x year, saving in the second year of his being, there was an Insurrexion in the West part of the country with whom the said Earl with the help of the kings true subgetts fought in the field, and subdued them at Akworth besides Pomfrett; And besides dyvers of them that were s●ayne in the field he took the captains and put them to execution▪ and the residue he sued to the kings highness for their Pardons which he obtained, and won thereby the favour of the country. And in the same year the king went over the see, and laid siege to Bolayn, the said earl than remaining there, not withstanding that he was appointed to have gone with the king, and h●d gone▪ but for the lightness of the pepule there, wherefore he was left behind both for the safeguard of the country, and for defending of the Realm for the singular trust that he had unto him. And soon after there was war with the Scotts, and for that the said earl would be in a readiness to defend them, he went to Annwyke, and there lay to the defence of the borders: And in his own person made a winter Rood into Tyvydale, and there brent their howsses, and their corn to the greatest loss and empoverysshement of the country, that was done there in an hundreth year before; And after that, the king of Scott's in his own person, and one Par●yn with him invaded this Realm of england, with a greatre power▪ and laid siege to Northam Castell. And soon as he ●erde that the said earl was coming towardis him he departed and fled into Scotlond with all the speed he might. And in the same Summer after, the said earl made another Rood in to Scotlond, and laid siege to the Castle of Heyton, and died race and pull down the said Castle, the king of Scotts with the puissance of his Realm looking upon it; and the Earl had nat than passed viii or ix thousand men with him. And than the king of Scotts sent unto the said earl, Lion his Herrold for to require battle▪ which was granted by the said earl, saying unto the said Herrold that uless as he was an Officer of Arms sent from the king his Master to require battle, and he Lyvetenaunt to the king his Master, granted thereunto. And said it was a contract and a full bargain which could not be broken, but in the default of oon of them. And promised by the faith that he bore to God, and to saint George, and to the king his Master, he would fulfil his promise. And if the king his Master broke, it should be asmuch to his dishonour and reproach as ever had Prince. And when the Harrold had herd this answer, and saw weal the said Earl was clearly determined to fight; he said unto him, Sir the king my master sendeth you word, that for eschewing of effusion of Gristen blood, he willbe contented to fight with you hand to hand for the Town of Berwick, and the Fisshegarthis on the West marches: if he win you in battle, and if ye win him in battle you to have a kyngis Raunsom. Whereunto the said Earl made answer, that he thanked his Grace that he would put him to so moche honour, that he being a king anointed would fight hand to hand with so poor a man as he, how be it he said he would nat dysceyve his Grace, for he said though he won him in in battle, he was never the nearer Berwick, ner of Fisshegarthys, for, he had no such comyssyon so to do: his Comyssyon was to do the king of Scotts his Master all the harm he coude, and so he had done, and would do, etc. And bade him show unto the king his Master that when the journey was done, he would fight with him on Horseback or on foot at his pleasure, at any place he would indifferently appoint, if the king his Master would gyff him leave, etc. And when the war was done and ●ended witthe Scotts, and the North part of england in good rest and peace, than the kings Highness sent for the said Earl to be again about his parson, and made him Tresourar of england, and of his privy Counsel. And after that the king sent him into Scotland as chief Com●myssyoner with Lady Margarett his daughter, to be married to the foresaid king of Scotts, which king at the time of the said Erlys' being there, entreteyned him as thankfully and favourably as coude be thought. Notwithstonding any displeasures done to him by the said Earl in the wars before. And also the said king said than vn to him, that he loved him the better for such servyce as he had done before to the king his father king of england, though the hurt war done to him, and to his Realm, and he gave to him then at his deperting greatt gifts. And at the coming home again of the said Earl for the trust that the king our sovereign Lord had to him, his Grace made him one of his Executours. And after the death of king Henry the seven, king Henry th'eight made him like wise of his prevay counsel, and still continued treasurer of england, and made him high Marshal of the same: And for the syngler trust that the king had aswell to his truth, as to his wisdom and actyvytte, at his going in to France with his puissance, having with his highness the most part of his Nobles of this Realm, left the said Earl with a certain power in the north parties, and made him Lyvetenaunte general from Trent Northward, to defend the Realm against the king of Scottys, whom his highness had no trust unto for cause of the leeg betwixt France and them: in case the s●●d king would invade this his Realm, which he died in deed, contrary to his oath and promise, with the hole power of the Realm of Scotlond: Which when the said earl hard of, he made as greatt haste towardis him as he coude with the kings power of the North parties. And took his lodging in the Camp or plain ca●●yd Wollar haugh in the County of Northumbrelond which was in the ●ight of the king of Scotts, and of all his army then ●ying on Floddon hill, a ground more like a camp or forteres, than any meet ground to give battle on, contrary to his promise made to Roge●ras Pursevaunte at arms, before sent unto him from the said Earl with message, that the said Earl with the Lord Howard then admiral of england his Son, And the no 〈◊〉 men of the North partis, with other the kings subjects of the same North partis, was come thither to repress and resist his Invasyons of his sovereign Lordis Realm; desiring the said king of Scotts to give him battle, which his message the same king of Scotts took very thankfully and ioyusly, promising him to abide there on the same ground, where he than was; which his promise he broke as is aforesaid, and took Floddon hil●ys, a ground unprengnable, and shot at him his great ordinance, where as he lay like one minded to keep it like a forteres, And when the said Earl died perceyve that he had broken his promise, and take so strong ● ground as Floddon hillies, he than the said Earl removed all his battle unto a plain besides Barmer wood to th'intent to get between him and his own Realm of Scotlond, and there leygeed but one night, and on the next morning to●e his passage over the water of at Twyfull forth, and than he marched the said king and his host in such manner, as he got between him and his aune ream of Scotlond be force whereof the said king was fayn to leave his Camp, and to prepare himself to battle witthe said Earl, on a hill besides Bramston in Northumbrelond very near unto Sandyford. Where the said Earl witthe good assistauns of the Nobull men, and the power of the said North parties fought witthe said king and him ●anqu●sshed, and slew in plain battle derectely before his own Standard. In which battle ware slain on the Scottysshe part two bishops, xi E●lys, xvii Barons, CCCC knights besydies other Gentlemen, with xvii M in number, which ware numbered asweel by Scottysshe men as by them that did bury the most part of them. And of troth dyvers Gentylmen and others aswell of the said Erlys' servanties, as of the North parties, and of Chesshir and Lankasshir war there slain, for hard it is and half impossible in such a conflict and battle to be won without loss of men, whoys death may be joyed among their friends to dye in so high a servys done to their Prince. And this noble act was done by the help of almighty God to the high honour of the kyngiss highness. Honour and prays to the said Earl and to all other Noble men, and otheres the kings subjects that war there with him at the battle the ix day of Septembir in the v year of our sovereign Lord king Henry the viii. And this done the said Earl went to Barwyke, to establish all thyngys' well and in good order: And sent for the deed body of the king of Scotts to Barwyke, And when the ordinance of the king of Scotts was brouth of the field, and put in good surety and all other thyngys' in good order. Than the said earl took his journey toward York, and their abode during the kyngis pleasur, and carried with him the deed body of thaforesaid king of Scotts. And there lay unto such time as the kyngiss highness came from beyond the See, after his winning of Tyrwyn and Tomey. And than his highness sent for the said Earl to meet him at Rychemond▪ and so he died, and there delivered unto his highness the deed body of the king of Scotts, which de●● body was delivered in to the Charter house there, and there to abide during the kings pleasure. And for the servyce that the said earl died, he was honourably restored unto his right name of Duke of Norfolk, and also had given unto him great possessions by the kyngis highness. And when the war betwixt the king our sovereign Lord and the French King was eended: than the said Duke was sent into France as chieff commissioner with Lady mary the Kyngis Sister, to be married unto the French King jews. And after when the king and the Queen were both out of the Ream to meet witthe French king Frauncies at Guynes, and the Prince's remaining in the Ream being a child, the said Duke was left behind as protector and defender to minister justice, and to see good Rule and Governaunce in the Ream, in the absence of the kyngiss highness, and so continued about the king, and of his privy Counsel till he w●s of age of fourscore yeeris, and then the kyngiss highness was content that the said Duke should go home, in to his own country unto the Castle of Framlyngham, where he continued and kept an honourable house unto the hour of his death. And there he died like a good christian Prince I now to witness. Whose soul jesus pardon. And at his deperting out of Framlyngham Castle toward his burial he coude not be asked one groat for his debt, nor for restitution to any person, and so was had to this present abbey of Thetford with moche honour; Accompanied with many greatt Lordis, and the Noble men of both Schires of Norfolk and Suffolk. leaving then living these his children hereafter named; that is to say, his son and heir the Lord Thomas Duke of Norfolk, the Lord Edmond Howard, the Lord William Howard, and the Lord Thomas Howard, witthe Lady Elysabeth wife to the Uicount Rocheford: the Lady Agnes Countess of Oxenford, the Lady Kateryne espoused to the heir of Sir Rice app Thomas of Walys: the Lady Elysabeth espoused unto the Uicount Fitzwater's son and heir. And the Lady Dorathie then being not married, but left for her Right, good substance to marry hyrwyth. Henry Fitz Roy Duke of Richmond. Henry Fitz-Roy the natural son of King Henry the eight (begotten of the Lady Talboys, daughter of Sir john Blount knight) Duke of Richmond was here interred, as Graston, Stow, Hollinshed, and other writers affirm: howsoever some will have him to be buried at Framingham in Suffolk. He married Mary daughter of the foreremembred Thomas Howard Duke of Norfolk, Earl Martial, and Lord high Treasurer of England, with whom he lived not long, but died at Saint james by Westminster the 22. of july, in the year of Christ jesus, 1536. He was a Prince very forward in Martial activities, of good literature and knowledge in the tongues; unto whom the learned Antiquary Leland dedicated a book; as appeareth by this Hexastichon following, which is to be found amongst the said Lelands written Epigrams. Ad illustrissimum Henricum Ducem Richmontanum. Quo Romana modo maiuscula littera pingi, Pingi quo possit littera parua modo, Hic liber ecce tibi signis monstrabit apertis Princeps, Aonij sp●s et alumne gregis: Qui tibi si placeat (quod certe spero futurum) Maxima proparuo munere dona dabis. Now for that I have here found such ample relation of the worthy achievements of the Howards, I will go forwards with that illustrious family as I find them in this tract, either entombed or otherwise remembered in Churches. Middleton. Although no Subscription now remaineth under this portraiture, yet by the impalement of the Arms of Howard, and Scales on the side thereof, it is manifest that this was made for Robert Lord Scales, whose daughter and Coheir Margaret, was married unto Sir Robert Howard, Knight, eldest son of Sir john Howard, Knight, who in the one and twentieth of Edward the Third, was made Admiral ab ore Aquae Thamesis versus parts Boriales quamdiu Regi placuerit. And this Sir Robert was great Grandfather to john Howard Duke of Norfolk. East Winch. On the South side of the Chancel of East-Winch Church, is an ancient Chapel, called howard's Chapel, in which are these Monuments following. In the South Wall of the said Chapel, this enarched Monument, as it is here set forth, diverse of the Escocheons being decayed (which are left blank) and only this inscription now remaining thereon. ..... animabus Domini Roberti Howard militis et Margerie uxoris sue ..... On the Pavement of the said Chapel, be these two stones as they are here defigured, whose inscriptions through time are decayed, or rather stolen away by some sacrilegious persons, a crime (as I have said elsewhere) too frequent, and too little punished; but without doubt these Monuments were here placed for some of the Ancestors of this most honourable family, this being their peculiar Chapel and place of Burial. In the East Window of the foresaid Chapel, this ancient effigies of late was perfectly to be seen, (the portraiture of the same being exactly taken by the learned Gent. Sir Henry Spelman, the memory thereof (as of diverse other Monuments) an by him preserved) in relation to which, this worthy Knight writ these verses. Creditur has sacris candentem ardoribus aedes, (Quas dicat hic supplex) instituisse Deo. This ancient Chapel of the Howards, hath of late years been most irreligiously defaced by uncovering the same; taking off the Lead, and committing it to sale, whereby these ancient Monuments have laid open to ruin: But now in repairing by the order of the most Honourable preserver of Antiquities (as well in general, as in his own particular) Thomas Earl of Arundel and Surrey, Earl Martial of England, and the Chief of that most Honourable family. To this I also offer in observation, both that the Posture, fashion of the Armour, and coat of Arms (wherewith it is habited) denotes great antiquity: and it should seem by the Banner-fashiond Shield, that this was the portraiture of some Banneret, Ancestor of this Illustrious family; for that Banners, and the manner of this bearing of Arms was only proper to Bannerets, Knights of the Garter, Barons, and higher nobility. In this Church of East Winch is a very fair Font of ancient times, erected by some of this family, as appeareth by their Arms being disposed in diverse places of the same; the which for the curiosity of the work, considering the antiquity, gives me occasion here to present the true form of one part thereof unto your view. Weeting. In the South Window of the Church of Weeting S. mary's, is this portraiture following, the which by the Arms doth seem to be the picture of Sir john Howard Knight, made in the time that he was married to Margaret, the daughter and heir of Sir john Plays. Farsfield. In the East Window of the South part of this Church, is the resemblance of one of the most noble Family of the Howards, as appeareth by his Coat of Arms; but the subscription being wanting, obscures the means to discover which of them he was. Framlingham. Howsoever this Town stands in Suffolk, yet (I hope) it comes not in impertinently in this place. Under a goodly rich Monument in this Parish Church lie interred the honourable remains of Henry Howard Earl of Surrey, and knight of the Garter, the son of Thomas Duke of Norfolk, as also of Frances his wife, the daughter of john Vere Earl of Oxford, as appears by the Inscription thereupon engraven, as followeth. Henry Howard Earl of Surrey and Frances his wife. Henrico Howardo Thomae secundi Ducis Norfolciae filio primogenito, Thomae tertij Patri, Comiti Surriae, et Georgiani ordinis Equiti ●urato, immature anno salutis, 1546. abrepto. Et Franciscae uxori eius, fil●ae Iohannis Comitis Oxoniae. Henricus Howardus Comes Northamptoniae filius secundo genitus, hoc supremum pietatis in Parents monumentum posuit. A.D. 1614 Camd. in Norf. This Henry Earl of Surrey, saith Camden, was the first of our English Nobility, that did illustrate his high birth with the beauty of learning, and his learning with the knowledge of diverse languages, which he attained unto by his travels into foreign Nations. Pit. de illust. Ang. scriptoribus pag. 923. He was a man, elegantis ingenij politaeque doctrinae, saith Pitseus. He writ diverse works both divine and humane; he was exquisite as well in Latin as in English verse. Of his English take this Essay, being an Epitaph which he made to the memory of Sir Anthony Denny Knight, a Gentleman whom King Henry the eight greatly affected. Upon the death of Sir Anthony Denny. Hen. How. Poem. Death and the King did, as it were, contend Sir Anthony Denny. Which of them two bare Denny greatest love: The King to show his love 'gan far extend: Did him advance his betters far above: Near place, much wealth, great honour eke him gave, To make it known what power great Princes have. But when death came with his triumphant gift, From worldly cark he quit his wearied ghost, Free from the corpses, and strait to heaven it lift. Now dame that can who did for Denny most; The King gave wealth, but fading and unsure, Death brought him bliss that ever shall endure. Leland our English Antiquary speaking much in the praise of Sir Thomas Wyatt the elder, as well for his learning as other his excellent qualities meet for a man of his calling; calls this Nobleman, the conscript enroled heir of the said Sir Thomas Wyatt, being one delighted in the like Studies with the said Sir Thomas Wiat. As it is in his Naeniae or Funeral Songs as followeth. Le●and ●n suis N●ij●. Bella suum meritò iactet Florentia Dantem, Regia Petrarchae carmina Roma probet. Hi● non inferior patrio sermone Viattus, Eloquij secum qui decus omne tulit. Transtulit in nostram Davidis carmina linguam, Et numeros magna reddidit arte pares. Non morietur opus tersum, spectabile, sacrum, Clarior hac fama parte Viattus ●rit. una dies geminos Phaenices non dedit orbi, Mors erit unius, vita sed alterius. Rara avis in terris confectus morte Viattus, Hoverdum baeredem scripserat ante suum. Dicere nemo potest recte perijsse Viattum, Ingenij cuius tot monimenta vigent. In another place to the said Lord Henry Howard thus. Accipe Regnorum Comes illustrissime carmen, Quo mea Musa tuum laudavit maesta Viattum. Again. Perge Hoverde tuum virtute refer Viattum, Dicerisque tuae clarissima gloria stirpis. This Sir Thomas Wyatt, the Translator of David's Psalms into English, died of the pestilence in the West country, The death of Sir Tho. Wiat. being on his journey into Spain, whither he was sent Ambassador from the King unto the Emperor, in the year 1541. But to return, this Earl had, together with his learning, wisdom, fortitude, munificence, and affability; yet all these good and excellent parts were no protections against the King's displeasure. For, upon the twelfth of December, Annal. Stow. Hollin● Hali. Speed. H●●●. the last of King Henry the eight, he with his Father Thomas Duke of Norfolk, upon certain surmises of Treason, were committed to the Tower of London, the one by water, the other by land, so that the one knew not of the others apprehension; The fifteenth day of january next following, he was arraigned at Guild Hall London, where the greatest matter alleged against him, was, for bearing certain Arms, that were said belonged to the King and Prince; the bearing whereof he justified. To be short (for so they were with him) he was found guilty by twelve common juriars, had judgement of death, and upon the nineteenth day of the same month (nine days before the death of the said King Henry the eight) was beheaded at Tower Hill. He was first interred in the Chapel of the Tower, and afterwards, viz. in the reign of our late dread Sovereign King james, of famous memory, his remainders of ashes and bones were removed to this place, by his second son Henry Earl of Northampton: as appears by the foresaid Inscription. Many more goodly Tombs and Gravestones (but without Inscriptions) are in this Church, made for the remembrance of this Heroical Progeny of the Howards and their Matches (who have here a fair and beautiful Castle, fortified with a bank, ditch, and walls of great thickness; wherein are thirteen Towers, inwardly furnished with buildings right commodious and necessary) the resemblances and figures whereof had been cut and delineated, if the hastiness of the Press would have permitted. Of this surname of Howard, thus Verstegan writes, in his treatise, Of our ancient English Titles of Honour, Dignities, and Offices. And of the word Holdward. This ancient and honourable name of Office, saith he, hath received the injury of time, . which hath worn it out of use and memory. The l and d, being for easiness of sound omitted in the pronunciation (as in sundry other words the like is seen) it became of Holdward which signifieth the governor or keeper of a Castle, fort, or hold of war, to be Howard. Which name of Office albeit we have long since lost, yet retaineth our Realm, to the high honour and illustrious ornament thereof, the great and ●●gh● noble family unto whom it is now the surname, and it is like that at first it so became to be, upon the bearing of such a warlike honourable Office and charge. Orate pro animabus johannis Plomer et Margery uxoris eius, qui istum font●● f●ciebant. Keteringham. Here lieth Henry Grey, the Son of Sir Thomas Grey knight of Heton, and jone his wife that was Sister to the Duc of Norfolk, who died at Venys: and Emme the wife of thaforesaid Henry Grey, the daughter of William Apleyard of the said County of Norfolk Esquyer .... Orate pro anima Thome Heveningham Armigeri, filij et heredis johannis Heveningham militis, et Baronetti. Qui obijt ultimo die januarij, ●nno Domini M. cccclxxxxix. Orate pro anima Anne nuper uxoris Thome Heveningham Armigeri, filie & heredis Thome Yard Armigeri, que obijt anno Domini M. cccccviii. The Tomb for Thomas her husband is arched, whereupon the pictures of himself and his wife are graven in brass, himself having fyve sons likewise engraven in brass, behind him, and she six daughters. There is another Tomb erected to the memory of Sir Anthony Heveningham knight, without Inscription. This Town is now the place of residence of the most ancient Family of the Heveninghams', which hath been very honourably matched, and with whom few families in England doth parallel for a Knightly descent. Of which I have read this note, out of certain Antiquities collected by Master Howldiche. Ann Dom 1020. in the reign of King Canutus Gualfride de Heveningham, was Lord of Heveningham in the County of Suffolk, of which house hath been 25. Knights, with Sir Io. Heveningham now living. An. 1610. Their original indeed is from that Town of Heveningham in Suffolk, which is possessed by them to this day. Where, in a particular Chapel, adjoining unto the Parish Church, lie three statues cut out of the heart of Oak, of their Ancestors, of great antiquity, in their full postures. Two of them representing men, the other a woman, which doth appear to have been very curiously painted and gilt. West Dereham, or Derham. Hubert Deane of York afterwards Bishop of Salisbury, and from thence translated to Canterbury) was Founded of a Monastery in this Town, where he was borne, in the reign of King Henry the second, for his own soul's health, and for the soul's health of his Father and Mother, and of Ranulph de Glanvile and Bertha his wife, who brought him up. He bought the land whereupon this Monastery was built of one Geffrey Fitz. Geffrey of Derham. He placed therein Regular Canons of the order of Premontre, upon the dedication thereof to God and the most glorious virgin Mary: but the particulars of the Foundation will best appear by his Charter thus recorded. Omnibus sancte Matris Ecclesie filijs presentibus et futuris Hubertus dei gracia Eboracensis Ecclesie Decan●s eternam in domino salutem. Prudentis est hijs que saluti anime proficiunt dum potest intendere, & transitorijs eterna commutare. Quod quidem intelligentes in Honore Dei, et gloriose Virgins Marie Matris eius, quoddam Cenobium Premonstratensis ordinis in feudo nostro apud Dereham fundavimus, pro salute anime nostre, et patris et matris nostre et Domini Ranulph de Glanvile, et Domine Berte uxoris eius, qui nos nutrierunt, et pro salute fratrum, sororum, consanguineorum, Familiarium, et omnium amicorum nostrorum, et pre●ate Domui et Canonicis dedimus et concessimus, et presenti charta nostra confirmavimus totum tenementum in eadem villa cum pertinentijs, quod de Galfrido filio Galfridi emeramus, etc. Witnesses to this his Foundation were john Bishop of Norwich, Ranulph de Glanvile, Lord chief justice of England, Walter Fitz. Robert, Geffrey Fitz-Peter, Richard de Derham, Parson of the Church, Nicholas de Derham and Elias de Derham, brethren. Which Elias was one of the Executors of the last Will and Testament of the said Archbishop Hubert, Ann. 7. johannis Regis: from which Nicholas de Derham descended. Tho. Derham of Crimplesham Esquire, Ann. 3. H. 5. that married Elisabeth, daughter and heir of Baldwin de Vere of Denuere in this County, Esquire (younger brother to Robert de Vere of Addington Esquire) from whom Sir Thomas Derham knight, now Lord of West Derham aforesaid, is descended. Buckenham New. Hic iacet Alicia quondam uxor Willelmi Knyvet Armigeri. Alice 〈◊〉. Que erat filia johannis Grey filij Reginaldi Grey Domini de Rythyn, que obiit quarto die mensis Aprilis, Anno Domini M. cccclxxiiii ..... Hic iacet Thomas Ivy Capellanus qui obijt nineteen di● mensis Septembris, 〈…〉. ann. Domini M. cccclxxxiii. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. Hic iacet Robertus Seman Capellanus qui obijt nono die junij, Rob. Seman. ann. Dom. M. cccclxv. Cuius anime. ... Orate pro anima Willelmi Pyllys qui obijt xxv. die Decembris, Will. Pyllis. Anno Domini M. cccccxxxi. Cuius anime propitietur Deus. Amen. Here are many old Monuments all without Inscriptions; Kneuet●. under which diverse of the Family of the Knevets lie buried. Camd. in Nors. An ancient house and renowned, saith Camden, ever since Sir john Kneuet was Lord Chancellor of England under King Edward the third, and also honourably allied by great marriages. For, over and besides these of Buckenham, now Baronet's, from hence sprang those right worshipful Knights, Sir Thomas Kneuet, Lord Kneuet, Sir Henry Kneuet of Wiltshire, and Sir Thomas Kneuet of A●hewell Thorp and others. Buckenham old. Upon a Gravestone in the south side of the Church (over which stone there now are Pewes built) there is in brass portrayed a Crane, from whose heke is a scroll with these two words, Deo gratias, and upon a piece of brass overthwart this inscription. Tho. Browne. ●uckenham priory. Orate pro anima Thome Browne, cuius anime propitietur Deus, Amen. Here was a religious Foundation of black Canons, dedicated to Saint james, valued at one hundred, one and thirty pounds, eleven shillings of yearly comings in. Erpingham. Sir john Er●●●●ham, Knight Under a goodly fair Gravestone lieth the body Sir john Erpingham knight, he is figured upon the stone in complete armour, and the monument is bordered with this inscription▪ Hic iacet johannes de Erpingham miles quis multa bona fecit tempore vite sue ... At each corner of the marble, a Dove silver crowned, holding a Maze or Sceptre in her pounce. Sir Thomas Erpingham was knight of the Garter in the reign of Henry the fourth. Cromer. Here lieth the body of Sir Simon Felbrigge, or Felbridge, knight of the Garter, in the reign of Henry the fifth. He lieth in complete Armour, on both his Emerases the Cross of Saint George, holding in his right hand a Penon of Arms, his Belt bossed and gilded, his Hanger by his side, his Spurs gilded, the blue Garter about his right leg, his feet resting on a Lion, all engraven in brass; his wife by his side (on like manner in brass) very sumptuously garnished with bracelets, jewels, and her attire according to those times. I have no inscription to know any further. Carow. ●●undation of the Nunnery. A religious house of black Nuns, consecrated to the holiness and honour of the blessed Virgin Mary, founded by King Stephen, (the founder of many such sacred Edifices) valued in the King's books to be yearly worth fourscore and four pounds, twelve shillings, penny, half penny qua. Gregory the tenth (as I take it) granted by his Bull this privilege, inhibition following, to the Nuns of this Priory. Gregorious Episcopus Seruus Seruorum Dei, dilectis in Christo fili●bus Priorisse et conventui de Carrone Norwicen: Dioc. Salutem et Apostolicam benedictionem. Exposita nobis ex parte vestra petitio ... quod vos ad i●stantiam precum quorundam Nobilium Anglie quibus propter suam potentiam resistere non valeatis, tot iam recepisti in Monasterio vestro Moniales, quod vix potestis domus redditibus congrue sustentari. Quare auctorit●●● presentium vobis inhibemus, ut nullam recipiatis in gravamen Monasterij vestri de cetero in Monacham vel Sororem. Dat. Perusii xij. Kalend. Septembris Pontificatus nostri anno tertio. East Harling. I find by certain notes of burials sent unto me from my friend master Taylor, of Fleetstreet, London, these persons following to have been interred in this parish Church. Sir William Chamberleyn, Sir Will. Chamberlain, knight of the Garter. Knight of the Garter, and Dame Anne his wife, daughter of Sir Robert Harling, Knight. He was graced with this high Order in the reign of Edward the fourth. Sir Robert Harling Knight, Elisabeth Trussell, sister of sir William Chamberleyn. Sir john Harling knight. Debenham. Here (by the foresaid Notes) lie buried john Farmingham, qui obijt anno M. cccc.xxiiij. and Margaret his wife. Robert Cheak, and Rose his wife. George Nevil and his wife; john Nevil; john Cheake, qui obiit, M. cccc.lxxxx. Suffield▪ Here lieth buried under a fair Tomb, the bodies of john Symonds, gentleman, and Margaret his wife, daughter of Francis Moundeford, Esquire ... Bromholme. William Glanuile founded the Church of Saint Andrew, The foundation of S. Andrew's at Bromholme. at Bromholme in the Diocese of Norwich in the year 1113. saith an old Anonimall Mss. which I have. In the Pedigree of the right honourable, Edward, Earl of Dorset, I find this note following. Beatrix, daughter and coheir of William Sakevile, Lord of Bracksted, Nayland, and mount Bures in Essex, and brother to jordan Sakevile, married to William de Glaunuile, Lord of Bromholme, and founder of the Church of Bromholme, anno 17. Hen. primi, a house it was of Benedictines, valued to be yearly worth an hundred pounds, five shillings, five pence. Here was also sometime a Priory of black Monks Cluniacks dedicated to Saint Sepulchre, founded by G. Glanuile, and valued at one hundred forty four pounds, . nineteen shillings, half penny, qua. Bromholme, sometime a Priory, saith Camden, founded and enriched by G. Glanuill, and seated on the sharp top of an hill, the cross whereof our ancestors had in holy reverence, I know not for what miracles. 〈…〉 Thomas Rudhorne, Bishop of S. David's, who flourished in the reign of Henry the fourth, hath (in his history) these words to the same effect. The holy Cross of Bromholme. Capulanus quidam portavit quandam crucem ligneam in Angliam, quam affirmavit esse de ligno in quo pependit Christus et Monachis de Bromholme ob●ulit et postea locus coruscabat miraculis. A certain Priest, brought over with him, saith he, a wooden Cross into England, which he affirmed to be the Cross whereupon our Saviour Christ was crucified; which he delivered to the Monks of Bromholme, after which the place did shine gloriously with miracles. Capgrave in the life of S. Ed●●●d King and 〈◊〉. But the story of this holy Cross is more fully delivered by Capgrave on this manner. Saint Helen, saith he, having found the Cross, did divide it into nine parts, according to the nine Orders of the Angels: of one part thereof (which was most besprinkled with Christ's blood, his hands and feet being thereto nailed) she made a little cross, which she enclosed in a box of gold, beset with precious stones, and gave it to her son Constantine the Emperor, which went successively from one Emperor to another, until it came to Baldwin, who kept a Chaplain to say daily mass before this sacred Relic; the said Chaplain being dead, one Hugh a Priest, borne here in Norfolk, was preferred to his place. Baldwin, so long as he carried this Cross with him to battle, had ever the upper hand of his enemies, but forgetting it, he was forthwith slain, upon which his Chaplain Hugh stole secretly away with the said Box and Cross, came to this Monastery of Bromholme, and bestowed them both here upon the Monks, for which so inestimable a gift, he with his two sons (which he had by his wife before he entered into holy orders) were kept of the Monks with all things necessary, until the death of Hugh the father, and the preferment of both his sons. By the virtue of this holy Cross, Cooperante Domino, God assisting, thirty and nine persons, were raised from death to life; and nineteen which were blind, received their sight, besides many other miracles which it wrought, if you will believe my Author. 〈◊〉 compertorum. Hic apparuit multa superstitio circa crucem quae vocatur, the holy Cross of Bromholme, et dicunt illic se habere Zonam beat marry et lac eiusdem, et fragmenta crucis sancti petri et sancte Andree, saith a book in the treasury of the Exchequer of the visitation of Abbeys. Here appeareth great superstition about a Cross, which is called the Holy Cross of Bromholme; and here they say they have the girdle and milk of the blessed Virgin, and a fragment of the Cross of Saint Peter, and of Saint Andrew. I find that the Founder G. Glanuill, was here buried. A name, as you may read in that which I have already written, of great account for many ages in diverse parts of this kingdom. There be of the later writer, saith Camden, speaking of the Earls of Suffolk, who report, Camd. 〈…〉 that the Glanuils' in times past, were honoured with this title; But seeing they ground upon no certain authority, where as men may easily mistake, and I have found nothing of them in the public records of the kingdom, they must pardon me if I believe them not, until they produce more certainty, yet the mean while I confess, that the Family of the Glanuils' in this tract, was of right good note, and high reputation. Antingham. Under a fair marble lie buried Richard Calthorpe Esquire, and Anne his wife, daughter of Edmund Hastings, by whom he had issue, nineteen. sons and daughters, as appears in that which remains of the brass. Here lieth john Cudden, the son of George Cudden Esquire, who married Anne Berney. Here lieth Rafe Berney, ●aphe 〈◊〉 who married Sir William Fromers' sister. This is a name of exemplary note, and Baronet's degree in this tract. Ringland. On a flat Gravestone in the said Church, is this Inscription. Hic iacet Robertus Neue filius et heres Iohannis tertio geniti Roberti le Neve de Tytetishal generosi, Robert 〈◊〉 N●●●. qui quidem Robertus le Neve obijt anno Domini M. ccccc.lviii. Beston. A fair Tomb whereon is engraven in brass, the names of john Deynes, Io Deynes, and Katherine his wife. and Katherine his wife, and these two words, Respice, Respice. Here was a Priory of Nuns, yearly worth seventy six pounds, three shillings, nine pence half penny. Kinningall. Here lieth john Shildgate, Io. Shildgate. Prior sometime of Windam, who built the Chancel of this Church, as appears by his Tomb. Here is a fair Tomb for George Lord Awdley, George Lord Audley. and his wife, the daughter of the E. of Bath, as I have it out of master Howldiche his collection. Orate pro anima Roguery Dennys Seneschalli: castal. ... Walsingham. One Richold a Widow, The foundation of the Chapel and Priory at Walsingham, out of a 〈…〉 increasing Library of Sir 〈…〉 dwelling in the Town of Walsingsame, was the first founder of the Chapel there in the year of our Lord God, 1061. which she dedicated to our blessed Lady, and founded the same in all points, like to the Chapel of our Lady at Nazareth, in that place where she was saluted by the Angel Gabriel. It was made a Priory of black Canons, by Edmond Earl of March, and Elisabeth de Burgo, in the reign of Edward the Third; and valued at the suppression thereof, (which happened the fourth of August, in the thirtieth year of the reign of K. Henry the Eight) after the rate of those times, to have of yearly revenues, four hundred forty six pounds, fourteen shillings, four pence, half penny, qua. Camd. in Norf. This village was much renowned throughout all England for a Pilgrimage to our Lady, the Virgin Mary: whom he who had not in that former age visited, and presented with offerings, was reputed irreligious. But this shall Erasmus, an eye witness, describe in his own very words. Erasmus of the pilgrimage to W●lsingham. Not far from the Sea, saith he, about four miles, there standeth a Town, living almost of nothing else but upon the resort of Pilgrims. There is a College of Canons, yet such, as unto whom the Latinists have given the addition of Regulares; a middle kind, betwixt Monks and those Canons, whom they term Secular: This College hath scarce any other revenues, than from the liberality of the said Virgin. For, certain of the greater Presents and Oblations are laid up and preserved. But if there be any money offered, or aught else, of small value, that goeth unto maintenance of the Covent, and their Head or Precedent, whom they call Prior. The Church is fair and neat: yet in it the Virgin dwelleth not: that honour, forsooth, she hath done unto her Son: she hath her Church by herself, but so, as that she may be on the right hand of her Son. Neither doth she dwell here for all this, for why, the building is not yet finished, and the place hath a through light and air on all sides, with open doors, and wide open windows; the Ocean Sea withal the father and foster of all winds is hard by. In that Church which I said was unfinished, there is a small Chapel, but all of wood, whereunto on either side at a narrow and little door, are such admitted, as come with their devotions and offerings. Small light there is in it, and none other in manner, but by Tapers or wax Candles, yielding a most dainty and pleasant smell. Nay, if you look into it, you would say it were the habitation of heavenly Saints indeed; so bright shining it is all over with precious stones, with gold and silver. But within the memory of our fathers, saith Camden in the same place, when King Henry the eight had set his mind and eye both, upon the riches and possessions of Churches, all this vanished quite away. Rising Castle. So denominated of a Castle sometime there standing, (the seat anciently of the Albineys, the Monthaults, and the Mowbrays) which now after long languishing, as it were, by reason of old age, hath given up the ghost. In the Porch of this Parish Church, is a Gravestone, under which, say the inhabitants (which I have heard sworn by others) Isabella, Queen of England, the wife of Edward the Second, lieth interred; upon the Gravestone, are two words only remaining, which make the country people so think of the matter, Queen Isabella's servant. which are .... Isabelle Regine .... now by these, the case is made plain, to any than can distinguish between the Cases Nominative, and Genitive, that this stone was laid to perpetuate the remembrance of some one of that Queen's servants. Flytham. This was a Nunnery, Flytham Priory. and a Cell to Walsingham, of yearly value, threescore and two pound, ten shillings, six pence, half penny. Yngham. This was a Priory of black Monks Benedictines, The Foundation of the Priory of Yngham. a Cell to Saint Alban, founded by the Ancestors of Sir Oliver Yngham knight, consecrated to the honour of the blessed Virgin Mary, valued at seventy four pounds, two shillings, seven pence half penny. Herein lay buried Sir Miles Stapleton, Burials in the Priory Church. and jone his wife, the daughter and heir of Sir Oliver Yngham. Sir Miles, son of the said Miles, and Ela his wife, the daughter of Vfford▪ Sir Brian Stapleton, son of the second sir Miles, and his wife, daughter of the Lord Bardolfe. Sir Miles, son of sir Brian, and Dame Katherine his wife, daughter of sir Pots, and after married to sir Thomas Sackuile, which are likewise here buried. Dame jone Please, daughter of sir Miles Stapleton. Dame Ela Perpoint, which had two husbands .... Edmond Stapleton, and his wife, daughter of Clyfton. Sir Roger Boys, and his wife. Linne. Linne, saith Leland, sometimes a famous Haven; there, as the Church stands now, Leland, in his Commentaries. was anciently without fail, an Abbey, for the graves of many religious persons as yet appear in the Church; and the lodgings of the Abbey are now converted into the Archdeacon's house. This Monastery I imagine to have been the house of the Carmelites, founded by the Lord Bardolfe, The foundation of the Friars Carmelites Lord Scales, and Sir john Wingenhall, Anno 1269. the dedication nor the value thereof, I do not find. The black Friars was founded by Thomas Gedney, The black and white Friars in Linne. and the white Friars by Thomas de Feltsham,: and thus much is the little of them which I have learned. Here was an Hospital, S. john's Hospital. dedicated to Saint john, valued at seven pounds, six shillings, and eleven pence. Here I have no Inscriptions of antiquity. Loddon. This Church was built by james Hobart, knight, one of the privy Council to King Henry the Seventh, Sir james Hobart knight, the builder of this Church. who lieth here buried, as I have it by relation, of whom, and of the Family, will it please you read what learned Camden writes. The river You're, saith he, receiveth a brook which passeth by nothing memorable, but Halles-hall, and that only memorable for his ancient owner, Sir james Hobart, Attorney general, and of the pridie Council to King Henry the seventh, by him dubbed knight at such time as he created Henry his son, Prince of Wales) who by building from the ground, the fair Church at Loddon, being his parish Church, Saint Olives' bridge over Waveney, that divideth Norfolk and Suffolk, the Causeway thereby, and other works of piety, deserved well of the Church, his country, and the common weal, and planted three houses of his own issue, out of the second whereof, Sir Henry Hobart likewise Attorney General to King james, is lineally descended. The foresaid Sir Henry Hobart, knight and Baronet, was advanced by the said King, the sixteenth of October, in the eleventh year of his reign, to be Lord chief justice of the Common pleas, in which office he died, the twenty sixth day of December, the first year of the reign of our gracious Sovereign King Charles, 〈◊〉. lit. I. magna Reipub. iactura, a great loss to the weal public, as Sir Henry Spelman writes. Margaret, La●● Hobart. Here lieth Margaret, the wife of Sir james Hobart, who died Anno 1494. as I have it out of certain funeral Notes. Yarmouth. Bishop Herbert, the builder of the Church. This Town is beautified with a spacious fair Church, having a wondrous high Spire Steeple, built by Herbert the first Bishop of Norwich, in the reign of William Rufus. All the funeral Monuments of antiquity in this Church, are utterly defaced; Inscription nor Epitaph now remaining, except that this may pass current for one. Elin●●●●●ker. Elyn Benaker, mercy doth crave, God on her Soul mercy more have. In the three and twentieth year of King Edward the Third, happened a most grievous and lamentable Plague in this Town, which brought (within the compass of one year) seven thousand, Stow Annal. ex lib. priorat. de Tur. fifty, and two persons, to their graves: the which is witnessed by an ancient Latin Chronographicall Table, hanging up in the Church. The Parsonage which was yearly worth before the sickness, seven hundred Marks, was afterwards scarce worth forty pound by year. Burials of such as ●●ed of the plague. The bodies of all the dead were buried in the Church and Church-yard, and in such and such places of the same, as the Townsmen can show you at this day. The Priory of Carmelites or white Friars. The white Friars. Was Founded by King Edward the first, Anno Domini 1278. herein lay buried Dame Maud, wife of Sir Laurence Huntingdon, who died, 1300. Sir john de Monte Acuto obijt 1392. Nicholas Castle Esquire, who died 1309. and Elisabeth his wife, these are all I find here to have been buried, and this is all that I can speak of this religious house. The black Friars was founded by Godfrey Pelegren, The Black Friars. and Thomas Falstolfe. The Grey Friars by William Gerbrigge. The Grey Friars. Near to this Town was a College of Saint john Baptist, first founded by Robert de Castre; The College of S. john Baptist. Sir john Falstolfe knight of the Garter. after by john Falstolfe Esquire, Father to Sir john Falstolfe that Martial Knight, who had a fair seat at Caster, and who was Knight of the Garter, in the reign of Henry the sixth. Thomas Talbot sometimees keeper of the Records in the Tower did collect out of an old Calendar in a Missale the names of certain eminent persons; for the souls of whom the Religious Votaries in and about Yarmouth were bound to pray: the most of which number were buried in the Parish Church, and in their Monasteries, as followeth. Margaret the wife of Sir john Falstolfe, Burials and persons to be prayed for in religious houses in & about Yarmouth. daughter of Sir john Holbroke knight, john Fastolfe and jone his wife. Richard, Alexander, William, Thomas, Robert Fastolves, Clarence Fastolfe, the wife of Sir Robert Ilketishale Knight, who died 1393. William Ilketishale their son, Parson of Hesingham, who died the Ides of December 1412. john Falstolfe Doctor of Divinity, a Friar Preacher: Richard Falstolfe, an Augustine Friar, with many more of that ancient and noble Family. Godfrey Pelegren aforesaid and his wife, Thomas the son of Sir Thomas Bowet Knight▪ jone the daughter of john Wiltshire, wife to Robert Cromer. Registered and buried in the Augustine Friars these. William de Vfford, Earl of Suffolk, Ed. de Hengrave a renowned Lawyer. who died 15. Feb. 1382. Michael and Michael de la Pole, Earls of Suffolk: Sir Thomas Hengrave Knight, of Hengrave in Suffolk (of which Family, and the owner of which Lordship, was that renowned Lawyer Edmund de Hengrave, who flourished in the reign of Edward the first) who died the 23. of May, 1349. Sir Robert Bacon. Richard Earl of Clare: Roger Fitz. Osbert. Lady Katherine his wife, Sir Henry Bacon: Sir Robert Bacon Knights: Lady Sabina the wife of ... Bacon, john Bacon his son, and nine other children. jone of Acris, Countess of Gloucester. William Woderow and Margaret his wife, Founders of this Monastery of Augustine Friars; as I have it in my notes from William Le Neve. Sir Henry Bacon of Garleston, or Garneston, obiit 1335. Dame Alice Lunston, obijt 1341. Dame Elinor wife of Sir Thomas Gerbrigge of Wickhampton obijt 1353. Dame Elinor .... Dame jone Caxton obijt 1364. Dame Sibyl Mortimer, wife of Sir Ralph Pygott of Gelston, obijt 1385. Sir john Laune of Flixtonforth, and Mary his wife. john Haukin Esquire, obijt 1385. john Belhowse Esquire, obijt 1399. Alexander Falstolfe. William March Esquire, obijt 1412. john Pulham gent. obijt 1481. Snoring. Orate pro animabus Radulphi Shelton Militis, Sir Ralph Shalton knight, and Alice his wife. & Domine Alicie uxoris eius filie Thome de Vuedal militis, qui quidem Radulphus obijt M. ccccxxiiii. The Rector of this Church at this time (as I am informed) is that reverend learned Divine and bountiful housekeeper, Robert Pearson, Doctor of Divinity, Archdeacon of Suffolk, sometimes Fellow of Queen's College in Cambridge; To whom I am bound to acknowledge all thankfulness, he being in the same College my Tutor. Shelton. 〈…〉 Lady. Pries pour l'ame du Mounsieur Rauf Shelton Mistress istius ville qui morust le 18. novemb. L'an de grace M.ccclxxiii ...... pour la femme fill. du Mounsieur Plays. ... Under a fair Gravestone lieth the body of Sir john Shelton, who married the daughter of Sir William Bullein; this Inscription remaining. Hic sum sepultus johannes de Shelton Miles. 〈◊〉 Io●▪ Shelton 〈◊〉. Here is a Tomb unfinished of Sir john Shelton knight, who married Margaret the daughter of the Lord Morley, and had issue, Sir Ralph Shelton knight, and three daughters: Anne, married to .... Sir john Goosalue knight: Alice, married to the heir of Sir Thomas jeselyn knight: and Marry, married to Sir james Skudamor knight. Sir Ralph Shelton Here is also another Tomb unfinished of Sir Ralph Shelton knight, who married to his first wife, Marry, the daughter of Sir William Woodhouse knight, and had issue Thomas, his son and heir, who married the daughter of Baron Flowerdew. Sir john who married the daughter of the Lord Cromwell. Ralph unmarried. Edward who died young. Audrie Shelton married to .... Walsingham in Kent. By his second wife the daughter of Master Barrow, he had issue Henry Shelton, and two daughters .... How near these times these come I do not know, for I have no further instructions, but from an imperfect Funeral Monument. Neither had he, I mean Master Howldich, who first collected these Inscriptions. Marham. Here was a religious little house of white Nuns, valued at thirteen pounds, 〈◊〉 ●unnery. six shillings, penny half penny. The first Founder hereof was Isabella Countess of Arundel in her widowhood, the wife of Hugh de Albeney, Earl of Arundel and Sussex: as by these words following extracted out of the book of Waverley in Surrey will appear. In bib. Cott. Isabel Comitissa Arundel, morum quidem gravitate non mediocriter adornata, circa salutem anime sue diligens & sollicita, divina ut creditur inspiratione prevenita; Abbatiam Monialium ordinis Cistercen. Marham vocatam cum summa devotione hoc anno, viz. 1252. construxit. Cuius rei causa Abbatem nostrum duxit consulendum, ac permissione Domini ipsius domum nostram intravit, societatem ordinis in capitulo nostro deuote petiit et obtinuit. Quatuor Marcas & unum Dolium vini Conventui ad pitancias donavit. And thus religious orders were enriched, and made great feasts by the admittance of lay persons into their Fraternities and Sisterhoods, as I have touched before in my discourse, Mss. in bib. 〈◊〉 monds 〈◊〉 Eq. aur●t. cap. I find that William, Bishop of Norwich, gave unto the Abbey of Nuns in Marham the appropriation and patronage of the Parish Church of Saint Peter in Rockland, within the Diocese of Norwich, Anno Christi 1349. Shouldham. A Priory consecrated to the holy Cross and the blessed Virgin, Shulder 〈◊〉 Priory of Nuns. replenished likewise with white Nun's Gilbertines. The valuation of whose endowments amounted to be yearly worth an hundred seventy and one pound six shillings 8. pence. It may very well be that Robert de Monte alto or Monthault was the Founder: for I find in the Abbey book of Langeley that he lieth here buried. An honourable Family anciently in this tract, and in diverse other places of the kingdom. Chapel in the field. Founded by john Brome, The foundation of the Chapel in the Field. or his Ancestors, for a Dean and seven Prebends; in which lie buried besides the Founder, Williom Rees Esquire, and Margery his wife. Edmond Bokenham Esquire, and Dionysia his wife. john Strange, Elisabeth wife of john jenny, daughter and heir of Io. Wedyrlye. Raveningham. Sir john of Norwich knight, The foundation of Raveningham College. founded a College here at Raveningham; the King's licence and Antony's Bishop of Norwich thereunto first obtained, for a Master and eight brethren, Priests. Anno 24. Ed. 3. which will best appear by his Charter which follows. Vniversis, etc. johannes de Norwico miles, Salutem. Illud Apostoli frequenter in animo revoluens; Ex Arch. ●u●r. Lond. Cart. Ant●q Qualia seminaverit homo talia & metet, etc. ad mei meriti et Margarete consortis me, etc. ad honorem Dei Genetricisque sue. Sancti Andree Apostoli omniumque sanctorum Collegium ex Magistro et octo confratribus Presbyteris in Ecclesia de Raveningham divina perpetuis temporibus celebratur, duxi peritorum consilio ordinand. Quod Collegium domus Sancte Marie de Raveningham nominari dispono. Dat. apud Thorpe iuxta Norwic. die xxv. julij Anno Domini M.cccl. Tomeston, or Thonston. Sir Thomas de Skardelow knight, and john his brother, founded here a chantry of six Chapleines to pray for the souls of the said Thomas, The foundation of a chantry at Tomeston. john, and Agnes his wife, and their parents souls. The donation bears date the 8. of Feb. 1349. the 23. of Ed. the third. Valued it was at fifty two pounds fifteen shillings seven pence half penny. Cockford. The foundation of the Priory of Cockford. Anno 1243. the Priory of black Canons Regular at Cockford, or Cokesford was founded by Sir john de Canneto, id est, Cheney knight. After him the Lord Say, and after that the Lord Clinton were Patrons, as I have it out of a Manuscript. Which Foundation was rated, as others were, at a low value, to be of yearly revenues one hundred fifty three pounds, seven shillings and a penny. Tylney Smeeth. ●en Sp●hmanni 〈◊〉 aurat. ●●nia. So called of a smooth plain or Common thereunto adjoining, some two miles in extensure: Pinguis adeo & luxurians ut Paduana pascua videatur superasse: So abundantly fertile, that in fatness of soil it doth exceed the pastures about Milan in Italy. For, it serves, and that sufficiently, for the grazing of all the greater sort of cattle of seven Towneships, to the same near situated, besides the feeding of thirty thousand sheep. In the Churchyard is a ridged Altar, Tomb or Sepulchre of a wondrous antique fashion, upon which an Axletree and a cartwheel are ensculpted; Under this Funeral Monument, the Towne-dwellers say that one Hikifricke lies interred; of whom (as it hath gone by tradition from Father to the Son) they thus likewise report: ●he story of Hikifrick, here 〈◊〉 How that upon a time (no man knows how long since) there happened a great quarrel betwixt the Lord of this land or ground, and the Inhabitants of the foresaid seven villages, about the meere-markes, limits, or bondaries of this fruitful feeding place; the matter came to a battle or skirmish, in which the said Inhabitants being not able to resist the Landlord and his forces, began to give back; Hikifricke, driving his cart along, and perceiving that his neighbours were faint-hearted, and ready to take flight, he shook the Axletree from the cart, which he used in stead of a sword, The strange & 〈…〉 of 〈◊〉 and took one of the cartwheels which he held as a buckler; with these weapons (in a furious rage, you must imagine) he set upon the Common adversaries, or adversaries of the Common, encouraged his neighbours to go forward, and fight valiantly in defence of their liberties; who being animated by his manly prowess, they took heart to grass, as the proverb is, insomuch that they chased the Landlord and his company, to the utmost verge of the said Common; which from that time they have quietly enjoyed to this very day. The Axletree and cartwheel are cut and figured in diverse places of the Church, and Church windows, which makes the story, you must needs say, more probable. . This relation doth in many parts parallel with that of one Hay, a strong brave spirited Scottish Ploughman, who upon a set battle of Scots against the Danes, being working at the same time in the next field, and seeing some of his countrymen to fly from that hot encounter, caught up an ox yoke, (Boethius saith, a Ploughbeame) with which (after some exhortation that they should not be faint-hearted) he beat the said stragglers back again to the main Army, where he with his two sons (who took likewise such weapons as came next to their hands) renewed the charge so furiously that they quite discomfited the enemy, obtaining the glory of the day and victory, for their dread Lord and Sovereign Kenneth the third, King of Scotland: and this happened in the year 942. the second of the said kings reign. This you may read at large in the History of Scotland, thus abridged by Camden as followeth. Where Tay now grown bigger enlargeth himself (saith he) there appeareth over it Arrol, Cam●. in Perth Hay●s. Earls of Arrol or Extol. the habitation of the noble Earls of Arrol, who ever since the Bruises days, have been by inheritance the Constables of Scotland: and verily they deduce an ancient pedigree from one Hay, a man of exceeding strength and excellent courage: who together with his two sons, in a dangerous battle of Scots against the Danes at Longcarty, caught up an ox yoke, and so valiantly and fortunately withal, what with frighting, and what with exhorting, reenforced the Scots at the point to shrink and recoil, that they had the day of the Danes, and the King with the States of the kingdom ascribed the victory and their own safety unto his valour and prowess. Whereupon in this place, the most battle and fruitful grounds were assigned unto him and his heirs, who in testimony hereof, have set over their coat a yoke for their Crest. Of which memorable exploit, to the further honour of this ancient and Princely great Family, john jonston of Aberdon, that ingenious learned Divine and Poet hath written, as followeth. Haius Pater cum duobus filijs. Io. jonston. Heroes Sco●. Armatus aratri iugo, suorum fugientium agmen stitit. Danorum exercitum victorem repulit. Salutem patriae, sibi posterisque rem & decus immortale peperit, in memorabili ad Loncartem vicum pugna; quae incidit in annum secundum Kennethi three Anno Christi 942. Ab hoc cepit initium illustris Comitum Erroliae domus, quae et agros Scotiae fertilissimos, et insignia in victoriae praemia hisce data adhuc tenet. Quo ruitis Cives? Heia; hosti obuertite vultus, Non pudet infami vertere terga fuga? Hostis ego vobis; aut ferrum virtite in hostem. Dixit, et armatus dux praeit ipse iugo. Quâ, quâ ibat vastam condensa per agmina Danûm Dat stragem: hinc omnis consequiturque fuga, Servavit Cives. Victorem reppulit hostem. Vnus cum Natis agminis instar erat. Hic Decios agnosce tuos magnae aemula Romae, Aut prior hac, aut te bis Scotia maior adhuc. The Succession, names and number of the right reverend Fathers in God, Lords and Bishops of Dunwich, Elmham, and Norwich, and of such of them as I find to have been reputed Saints. OF the Bishops of Dunwich and Elmham, I have already written; of which number, Felix the first Bishop was the first Saint. In the year vi. hundreth wherein and two . King Edwyne, by holy doctrine, Of Saint Felix, an holy Pressed that was tho, And preaching of the holy archbishop Paulyn, Of Christ's word, and virtuous disciplin Converted Edordwolde, of Estangle the king, And all the realm, where Felix was dwelling. ●a●gra●e in vi● 〈…〉 confessoria. This sacred Bishop Felix was borne, brought up, and sublimated with an Episcopal Mitre, in the parts of Burgundy; which worldly pomp and honour, together with his own Country, he forsook, only to propagate the Gospel, and came into England to preach the word of God, in the days of Honorius Bishop of Rome, Honorius being as then Archbishop of Canterbury. He was a man every way learned, & what he daily taught, he carefully put in practice by his holy conversation, and charitable good works. He delivered the word with great mildness and pleasant elocution, whereby the more easily he subjugated his Auditors to the yoke of ●esus Christ. Having governed the East Angles 17 years, he died at Dunwich, his Seat, S. 〈◊〉. his 〈…〉 places. the eight of the Ides of March, Anno 647. where in the Church of his own Foundation, he was first buried; but after a time, his bones were taken up and conveyed to Some in Cambridgeshire, and there solemnly encoffined in the Chancel of the Church there, which he likewise built. And afterwards, in the reign of King Canute, his sacred relics were removed from thence to the Abbey-Church of Ramsey in Huntingdonshire, by the procurement of Ethelstan, at that time Abbot of the said Monastery. The next Bishop that I find, was Humbyrct, or Humbert, who kept his See at Elmham, . and being reputed holy, was reckoned for a Saint, of which a late writer. . The See at Norwich, now established (long not stirred) At Eltham planted first, to Norwich then transferred, Into our bead-roll here, her Humbert in doth bring, (A Counsellor that was to that most martyred king Saint Edmund) who in their rude massacre then slain, The title of a Saint, his martyrdom doth gain. Now to come to Norwich, the first Bishop of Norwich was William Herbert: the second, Euerard: the third, William Turbus: the fourth, john of Oxford: the fifth, john de Grey: of these I have written before. The sixth, was Pandulfus, the Pope's Legate, he was consecrated at Rome, by Honorius the Third, Bishop of Rome, and died the fifth year of his consecration, 1227. The seventh was Thomas de Blundevill, an officer of the Exchequer, preferred thereunto by Hubert de Burgo, the famous chief justice of England: he died, August 16. 1236. The eight, Radulph, who died, An. 1236. The ninth was William de Raleigh, who was removed to Winchester. The tenth was Walter de Sufield; the eleventh, Simon de Wanton; the twelfth, Roger de Sherwing; the thirteenth, William Middleton, of whom before. The fourteenth was Ralph de Walpoole, translated to Ely. The fifteenth was john Salmon; the sixteenth was William Ayermin, of whom before. The seventeenth was Antony de Becke, Doctor of Divinity, a retainer to the Court of Rome, Godwin de presul. Aug. and made Bishop by the Pope's Provisorie Bull. He had much to do with the Monks of his Church, whom it seemeth he used too rigorously. He also withstood Robert Winchelsey, Archbishop of Canterbury, in his visitation, appealing from him to Rome. This boisterous unquiet humour, it seems, was his death; for it is said, that he was poisoned by his own servants. The eighteenth Bishop was William Bateman, who died at Auinion, in the year 1354. and was there buried, of whom hereafter. The ninteenth was Thomas Piercy: The twentieth was Henry Spencer: The one and twentieth was Alexander, of whom before. The two and twentieth was Richard Courtney, Chancellor of the University of Oxford, a man famous for his excellent knowledge in both laws. A man of great lineage, great learning, and great virtue, and no less beloved among the common people. He died of a Flux in Normandy, at the siege of Harflew, Septemb. 14. 1415. in the second year after his consecration. His body being brought into England, was honourably interred at Westminster. The three and twentieth, was john Wakering, of whom I have spoken before. The four and twentieth was William Alnwick, translated to Lincoln, of whom hereafter in his place of burial. The five and twentieth was Thomas Browne, Bishop of Rochester, who being at the Council of Basill, had this Bishopric cast upon him, before ever he understood of any such intent toward him. In his time, the Citizens of Norwich (upon an old grudge) attempted many things against the Church: but such was the singular wisdom and courage of this Bishop, that all their enterprises came to none effect; he sat nine years, and died anno 1445. where buried, I do not find. The six and twentieth was Gualther Hart, or Lyghart. The seven and twentieth was james Goldwell. The eight and twentieth was Thomas jan. The nine and twentieth was Richard Nyx, of whom before. The thirtieth, was William Ruyg, alias Reps, a Doctor of Divinity in Cambridge. He sat 14 years, and deceased anno 1550. The one and thirtieth was Thyrlhey, a Doctor of Law of Cambridge, the first and last Bishop of Westminster, translated to Ely. The two and thirtieth was john Hopton, a Doctor of Divinity of Oxford, and household Chaplain to Queen Mary, elected to this Bishopric in King Edward's days. He sat 4 years, and died in the same year that Queen Mary did, for grief as it was supposed. The three and thirtieth, was john Parkhurst, who lieth buried in his Cathedral Church, under a fair Tomb, with this Inscription. johannes Parkhurstus Theol. professor, Gilford: natus, Oxon. educatus. Temporibus Mariae Reginae pro tuenda conscientia vixit exul voluntarius: postea Presul factus sanctissime hanc rexit Ecclesiam, per. 16. An. ob. 1574. aetat 63. Vivo bono, docto, ac pio Iohanni Parkhursto Episcopo vigilentissimo, Georgius Gardmer posuit hoc monumentum. The four and thirtieth was Edmund Freak, Doctor of Divinity, who was removed from hence to Worcester. The five and thirtieth was Edmund Scambler, household Chaplain for a time to the Archbishop of Canterbury: he was consecrated Bishop of Peterborough, january 16. anno 1560. and upon the translation of Bishop Freak, preferred to this See, where he lieth buried under a fair monument, having this Inscription or Epitaph. Edmundi Scambleri, viri reverendissimi, et in ampliss. dignitatis gradu dum inter homines ageret locati corpus in hoc tegitur tumulo, obijt Non. Maij anno 1594. Vivo tibi, moriorque tibi, tibi Christe resurgam, Te quia iustifica Christe prebendo fide. Huic abeat mortis terror, tibi vivo redemptor, Mors mihi lucrum est, tu pie Christ salus. The six and thirtieth was William Redman, Archdeacon of Canterbury, consecrated january 12. an. 1594. He was sometime fellow of Trinity College in Cambridge, and bestowed 100 marks upon wainscotting of the Library there. He died a few days before Michaelmas, Anno 1602. The seven and thirtieth, was john jegon, Doctor of Divinity, and Deane of Norwich, fellow sometimes of Queen's College in Cambridge, and afterwards master of Bennet College: of the time of his death, or how long he enjoyed this high dignity, I have not learned. The eight and thirtieth was john Ouerall Doctor of Divinity, sometimes Fellow of Trinity College, Master of Katherine Hall, and the King's Professor in Cambridge; afterwards, Deane of S. Paul's, a learned great Schooleman, as any was in all the kingdom: how long he sat, or when he died, I do not certainly know. Samuel Harsenet, Doctor of Divinity, sometime Master of Penbroke Hall in Cambridge, Bishop of Chichester, and now graced with the metropolitical dignity of the Archbishopric of York, was the nine and thirtieth Bishop of this Diocese. Which at this time is governed by the right reverend Father in God; Francis White, Doctor of Divinity, the King's Almoner, sometimes Deane, as also Bishop of Carlisle, an excellent learned man, as his works now extant do testify. Now it here follows that I should say somewhat of the situation, circuit, commodities, and other particulars of this Diocese, like as I have done of London, but that is already most exactly performed, and to the full, by that learned and judicious Knight, and great Antiquary, Sir Henry Spelman, in his book (before mentioned) called Icenia: a Manuscript much desired to come to the open view of the world. Here endeth the Ancient Funeral Monuments within the Diocese of Norwich; and this Book. FINIS.